《Let them offer their loyalty!》


 Chapter 1 Crisis Intuition

    The white curtains, yellowed with age, the walls spotted with mold, a cramped and dim room.The scent of a woman''s body mixed with the blooming fragrance of heather.


    "Tick-tock, tick-tock..."


    Accompanied by the dripping sound of an old faucet in the toilet, Qiu Tu slowly woke up.


    He opened his weary eyes, shook his dizzy, aching head, and surveyed the room he was in.


    In the tiny seven-square-meter room filled with clutter, there was an old wooden bed.


    A slender woman with skin white as snow slept soundly on the bed, completely naked.


    Looking at the woman, Qiu Tu''s mind automatically conjured her identity.


    The mistress of Director Yan Chen of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    And himself...


    Qiu Tu shook his aching head again...


    A Second-Class Investigator at Xinjie City Investigation Bureau... a confidant of Director Yan Chen.


    His primary duty was...


    To ensure the safety of this mistress!


    Qiu Tu suddenly sat up, looking at his own body, which was also bare, his face full of shock.


    No, wait a minute.


    Wasn''t he at an explosion at the company? How did he become an investigator?


    Did he... travel through time?


    ...


    Half an hour later.


    The toilet.


    Standing in front of a dirty sink, Qiu Tu, his face wet, looked at his own reflection in the broken mirror and roughly figured out everything before him.


    He had indeed traveled through time.


    Travelled to this somewhat chaotic, bloody world.


    An unexpected cataclysm had devastated most nations, caused mutations in species, abandoned cities, scarcity of food, and obliteration of civilization, replaced by endless chaos, the law of the jungle, and survival of the fittest...


    After the cataclysm, the world was in chaos for decades before civilization began to regrow anew.


    With the joint efforts of several powerful figures, humanity slowly established the Eight Great Shelters, gradually restoring the order of the pre-disaster world, giving humanity new hope.


    Unfortunately...


    The Xinjie City where Qiu Tu was located was not part of the Eight Great Shelters, but a Planning Area.


    That is, the areas situated between the Sanctuaries and the Disaster Zone, prepared for the next steps in reconstruction.


    There was no comprehensive law here, no strict rules to adhere to, only the most basic law of the wild.


    Although middle and high-level management personnel from the various shelters were arranged to manage these areas, they were only tasked with preventing these areas from falling into major turmoil; as for other aspects, they didn''t interfere at all.


    This resulted in every high-level manager being a Local Tyrant with great power over their respective Planning Area, decreeing life or death at will...


    And Qiu Tu''s immediate superior, Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen of Xinjie City, was one of the high-level managers sent by the shelter, one of the Three Giants in Xinjie City, holding all the power of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he was Yan Chen''s lackey, a mid-level investigator in Xinjie City, specially tasked with doing Yan''s dirty work.


    Such as killing, collecting taxes, and... ensuring the safety of mistresses.


    Well... that protection went all the way to the bed...


    Wiping his face, Qiu Tu recalled the last memories of his predecessor in his mind.


    In the memory, after an intense encounter with Yan Chen''s mistress, the predecessor fell asleep; and while sleeping, he suddenly felt his heart contract sharply, in pain.


    The past life was jolted awake, straining to open his eyes, only to be met with ringing ears and vertigo that came hand in hand. His strength dwindled further and further until his consciousness vanished entirely. That was when Qiu Tu took over his identity.


    ''Was it a sudden illness?''


    Reflecting on the previous life''s memory of death, Qiu Tu was a bit puzzled.


    But he didn''t delve deeper into it, after all, sleeping with the Investigation Bureau Chief''s woman, dying sooner or later didn''t seem to make much of a difference.


    In an era where the death toll was uncertain each day, having offended such a significant figure, he was lucky to have been sacked and sank into the sewer the very next day.


    If the bigshot was vengeful or psychologically twisted, it was expected for Qiu Tu to be maimed into a specter and haunted for life without death.


    ''It''s a bit thrilling...''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu lifted his head to face the very cause of all troubles¡ªthe handsome face in the mirror. A radiant smile suddenly spread across his face,


    ''But... it''s already much better than my previous life.''


    In his past life, Qiu Tu was deceived by friends and sold off to Northern Myanmar, beaten and insulted every day, too scared to close his eyes at night for fear of being buried alive or having his organs harvested the next day.


    So in that environment, he "turned to the dark side" and voluntarily "joined" a tele-scamming group, becoming a specter himself.


    Swindling, slashing, killing. He climbed up the ranks step by step, and then... sent each and every person who had deceived and insulted him in the past to hell.


    Afterwards, he continued to climb, reaching the management level of the group, and then... At the group''s celebratory banquet, he wrapped himself in explosives and blew up the entire syndicate, including the mastermind behind it all, to kingdom come.


    Recalling his last years in his previous life, from the moment he was conned into going to Northern Myanmar, he had only death on his path. Compliance meant death, resistance meant death, scheming was death, and lonely revenge was also death.


    Now, though dangerous, there was at least a chance at life!


    After all, according to the memory of his former self, Bureau Chief Yan Chen did trust his predecessor quite a bit.


    As long as Qiu Tu didn''t give himself away moving forward, he shouldn''t be in danger... right?


    And at this moment, as Qiu Tu was lost in thought.


    Suddenly, "buzz buzz..." the sound of the Communicator vibrating stirred the air in the cramped toilet.


    Hearing the vibration, Qiu Tu glanced at the old Communicator with physical buttons atop the washbasin.


    The Communicator''s low-resolution yellow-green screen displayed three characters: Director Yan.


    Even though he had already braced himself for anything, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat still surged at the sight of that name.


    He took a deep breath, pressed down the astonishment in his heart, and silently reminded himself to remain calm, the Bureau Chief knew nothing, and if he could just appear a bit more composed, there should be no problem.


    However, just as he thought this, suddenly, his vision flashed.


    The next second, row after row of prompts also appeared in his sight.


    ''Crisis Intuition activated! Generating Crisis Report!''


    ''Your direct superior, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen, is communicating with you.''


    ''He is suspicious and brutal by nature.''


    ''Before contacting you, he has already communicated with other confidants and found out that you and his mistress Qin Shuman intentionally dismissed others, spending 4.5 hours alone outside without a third person''s company, and have not returned to this moment.''


    ''Qin Shuman''s maid has also secretly informed him that in the past two days, you and Qin Shuman have been flirting relentlessly.''


    ''He is now extremely angry and has started to doubt your loyalty.'' S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''However, the cunning and calculated he does not plan to startle the snake in the grass but instead intends to test you.''


    ''You have only two minutes.''


    ''If within two minutes, you fail to regain his trust, then by tomorrow, your and Qin Shuman''s bodies will be found in the sewers of Xinjie City. You know that with his power, you can''t escape.''


    ''Now, the 2-minute countdown begins.''


    As the prompts ended, a sandglass-shaped countdown icon slowly appeared in the upper left corner of his vision....


    Qiu Tu: ???

 Chapter 2 Personality Weaknesses

    Looking at the countdown and text that suddenly appeared before him, Qiu Tu was full of question marks.''Is this... the Golden Finger?'' he wondered.


    A Golden Finger that can hint at risks?


    After a moment of contemplation, Qiu Tu felt it was a bit weak, but still acceptable.


    After all, had it not been for the hint from his "Crisis Intuition," he would not have known that Yan Chen had gleaned some information from the maid and begun to suspect his involvement with Qin Shuman, preparing to test him.


    Had he picked up the communicator and dared to tell one lie to cover up the matter, the next day he would have died in the filthy sewage ditch.


    In such a scenario, the Golden Finger had indeed saved his life.


    ''Anyway, I can''t change the Golden Finger, so it''s pointless to think too much about it. I should focus on figuring out how to deal with the current situation...'' he reasoned.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu began to reflect on how to deal with the situation, observing the pile of hints before him...


    The communicator vibrated in the palm of his hand, buzzing, and the bright red countdown pulsed like a heartbeat...


    [1:56]


    [1:55]


    ...


    [1:52]


    [1:51]


    ...


    [1:48]


    [1:47]


    As time ticked away, second by second, it wasn''t until it reached [1:45] that Qiu Tu''s gaze slowly became resolute and he pressed the receive button without hesitation!


    The next moment, his expression seamlessly switched as he reverently said into the communicator, "Bureau Chief, were you looking for me?"


    "I had something to deal with, which is why I was late to answer the communicator," he explained.


    Perhaps it was an influence from his previous life, but Qiu Tu spoke those ingratiating words with such fluidity that he surprised even himself.


    [1:42]


    [1:41]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, no different from any other day, Yan Chen on the other end of the communicator did not become suspicious. He gave a profound "hmm" and then said, "Qiu Tu, I have a task for you to handle."


    "Xiafang Street Public Security Bureau has arrested a Pharmacist selling illegal potions. Go there and bring that person back to the Bureau; I have use for him."


    [1:27]


    [1:26]


    Glimpsing the ever-decreasing numbers of the countdown, Qiu Tu quickly replied, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    However, after his response, he pretended to be in a difficult position and said, "But, Bureau Chief, I..."


    Yan Chen spoke sternly, "What''s the matter? Is there a problem?"


    He was like a volcano about to erupt¡ªthe heavy pressure so palpable it came through the communicator, clearly felt by Qiu Tu.


    [1:18]


    But Qiu Tu wasn''t swayed by Yan Chen. He continued to keep his tone steady and spoke softly, "Bureau Chief, actually I have some other matters to take care of as well."


    Then, intentionally hesitating for two seconds, he finally spoke as if he had made a decision, "Bureau Chief, in fact, there was something I''ve been wanting to report to you for the past few days, but I didn''t dare to mention it without evidence."


    "There''s something off about Qin Shuman. I suspect she''s a spy sent by the Municipal Committee to monitor you!"


    As he spoke these words, the atmosphere suddenly became still, and the countdown seemed to freeze as well, halting at [1:03].


    After a full five seconds of stillness, the countdown resumed ticking.


    On the other side of the communicator, Yan Chen asked in a deep voice, "What do you mean?"


    [1:00]


    With only one minute left, the countdown turned a glaring, blood-red and began to flash frenetically.


    However, Qiu Tu was not rushed. He calmly explained, "Bureau Chief, I''ve been under your orders to ensure Miss Shuman''s safety. But I''ve noticed some things about her that don''t seem quite right."


    "For example, I remember you saying she had just come from the Disaster Zone to Xinjie City, but she seems very familiar with Xinjie City."


    "For example, she''s not a resident of the Sanctuary like us, yet her skin is so smooth, fair, without a single scar or callus."


    "For example, every time I appear near her, she tries to talk to me, initiating conversations about you, probing for information."


    "All these signs suggest that she is probably not as simple as she appears."


    "And don''t you find it a bit too coincidental?"


    "Xinjie City is so vast and chaotic, yet why would such a beautiful person be so conveniently discovered by you?"


    "Are all the other men blind? Wouldn''t they want her for themselves?"


    "Is that really reasonable?"


    Speaking of which, Qiu Tu paused before saying, "So, these past few days I''ve been trying to curry favor with her, subtly expressing my admiration to gain her trust."


    "Perhaps my approach really did earn her trust. Today she told me she felt like a canary trapped in a cage and wanted to go out alone. So, in collaboration with her, we managed to distract the maids and other security staff, and I went out alone with her."


    "Throughout these hours, I''ve been at her side, covertly observing her every move, trying to figure out what she really wanted to do."


    [0:15]


    At this time, the countdown timer glowing with red light seemed to have completely stopped.


    After a two-second silence on the other side of the communicator, Yan Chen asked, "So what did you find out?"


    Qiu Tu, "Nothing at all."


    As if seeing Yan Chen''s face darken suddenly through the communicator, Qiu Tu paused before adding another sentence, "But... that''s the biggest problem!"


    "She went to the trouble of shaking off everyone just for a simple stroll?"


    "Bureau Chief... Does that sound reasonable?"


    Yan Chen remained silent.


    Two seconds later, instead of answering Qiu Tu''s question, he asked, "Then why do you say she was sent by the Municipal Committee to monitor me?"


    Qiu Tu, "Speculation."


    "After all, the entire Xinjie City knows that the Municipal Committee is at odds with our Investigation Bureau, and Commissioner Jiang even more so with you..."


    Yan Chen let out a cold snort.


    Seeing he had pushed far enough, Qiu Tu did not continue to discuss the private affairs of the higher-ups. Instead, he switched gears and summed up, "That''s why I suspected the Municipal Committee first when considering who to doubt."


    "But, I''m still in the process of verification, with no evidence so far."


    Yan Chen''s tone noticeably softened. After a moment of thought, he then asked, "So where are you right now?"


    Qiu Tu, "At my place."


    "It was Miss Shuman who requested it."


    "She''s currently playing video games there, and I took the excuse of hiding in the bathroom to answer your call."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen "Hmm" responded.


    He did not express his attitude to Qiu Tu but reverted to his initial topic, "I will have others handle Xiafang Street''s matter for now. Continue to accompany Miss Shuman."


    "Yes! Bureau Chief!" Qiu Tu bowed slightly, respectful as if Yan Chen could see him, "I will certainly help you ascertain Miss Shuman''s identity and not let down your trust."


    Yan Chen did not respond and cut off the communication.


    Listening to the "beep...beep..." sound on the other end, Qiu Tu, who knew he had narrowly escaped for now, slowly exhaled. He straightened up slowly, his smile gradually fading to a blank expression.


    In those years with the Northern Myanmar fraud group, he learned a lot, including reading people, discerning their psychology, and finding weaknesses in their personalities.


    The weak point in Yan Chen''s character was obvious: he was suspicious.


    Such people, once they start doubting, won''t easily stop.


    So, when Qiu Tu realized he was "exposed," he knew the more he explained, the more he would arouse Yan Chen''s doubts.


    For a powerful figure like Yan Chen, confidants and mistresses were nothing more than dogs begging at his feet for scraps.


    In these chaotic times, two lower-class individuals who hadn''t even secured sanctuary status could easily be snuffed out if he felt the slightest suspicion or displeasure.


    Therefore, for Qiu Tu to stay alive, he had to introduce a formidable "Third Party Force" that could make Yan Chen wary.


    Only then would Yan Chen control his emotions and not act recklessly, giving Qiu Tu time to defuse the crisis.


    And this formidable "Third Party Force" that could make Yan Chen wary was¡ª the Municipal Committee.


    The Municipal Committee was the highest governing body of Xinjie City, holding all the rights of legislation, personnel appointments, finances, and more.


    In theory, the Investigation Bureau should also obey the Municipal Committee.


    But for checks and balances, when the Sanctuary sent high-level managers, the Municipal Committee, Investigation Bureau, and the military all had the right to communicate directly with the Sanctuary.


    So, in the Planning Area, the three parties were relatively independent; the Municipal Committee couldn''t command the other forces outright, but instead had to use benefits, situations, righteousness, and various other means to make them comply.


    This led to a relationship that was both full of conflict and yet necessarily collaborative between the three parties, extremely delicate and precarious.


    In such a situation, facing a person suspected of being planted by the Municipal Committee, the wily Yan Chen would most likely act cautiously. Before clarifying Qin Shuman''s identity and understanding the Municipal Committee''s intentions, he would not rashly harm them, thus upsetting the delicate balance of Xinjie City.


    Such a lie also made Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman appear as potential adversaries in Yan Chen''s eyes, reducing the suspicion that the two might be in cahoots.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu''s "forthrightness" in voluntarily disclosing their whereabouts would likely make the information seem more credible to Yan Chen.


    The plan was bold and fraught with future troubles, but it was the best Qiu Tu could come up with in a matter of seconds.


    After recalling the plan he had devised, Qiu Tu looked deeply at the stalled countdown timer in the upper left corner, his mind continuing to patch up any weaknesses in his plan,


    ''Although I acted quite well and replaced the original question with a new doubt, thereby steering Yan Chen''s suspicions,''


    ''But... given Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, would the seed of doubt really be dispelled that easily?''


    ''Can things really be this simple?'' S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With this thought, the hourglass of the countdown timer in the upper left corner of his vision began to change slowly...

 Chapter 3 Supernatural Power?

    And with the shift of the hourglass, several new prompts did indeed pop up in front of Qiu Tu."Congratulations on successfully overcoming the recent crisis, you have gained Yan Chen''s initial trust," it read.


    "However, his naturally suspicious nature was not completely convinced by the lies you fabricated¡ªafter all, there were some holes in your story that couldn''t withstand scrutiny."


    "Therefore, he plans to go to Qin Shuman''s residence tonight to question you in person." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You will have five hours to prepare."


    "Try to spin all your lies thoroughly, and prepare suitable evidence to vie for a chance at survival."


    "You wouldn''t want to know the consequences of failure."


    As all the prompts ended, the original countdown hourglass slowly became a small, shaking treasure chest, and another countdown hourglass emerged, jumping next to the chest, side by side with it.


    [4:59:50]


    Staring at the new countdown, Qiu Tu was silent for a few seconds, then slowly smiled.


    He had known that with Yan Chen''s suspicion, it wouldn''t be so easy to fool him.


    This was always a high-stakes game of walking on a tightrope, it wasn''t so simple to just get through it.


    But five hours, huh... that was a lot better than the two minutes he had earlier, at least it gave him time to do something else. Like...


    ...Thoroughly examining his Golden Finger.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell on the treasure chest icon that had just appeared, trying to click on it.


    The next second, the chest opened and disappeared, replaced by a piece of sea-blue, semi-transparent stone.


    At the same time, two small prompts refreshed in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Survived the crisis, obtained treasure chest reward: Aurora Stone."


    "Aurora Stone: One of the important Cataclysm Materials. Just gather the other materials and you can make a variety of Cataclysm Potions, Cataclysm Props. For example: ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Skull Talisman,'' ''Old Seal,'' ''Shining Prescriptive Octahedron,'' etc..."


    Staring at the two prompts that popped up before him, Qiu Tu fell silent for a few seconds, then slowly furrowed his brows.


    Cataclysm Materials?


    Cataclysmic Potion? Skull Talisman? Shining Prescriptive Octahedron?


    This world was not an ordinary world after all, but one where Supernatural Power exists? This was obviously somewhat unexpected for Qiu Tu.


    With this thought, he quickly went through his memories again¡ªbut he couldn''t find any information related to Supernatural Powers.


    Neither the official news from the Sanctuary nor the rumors circulating in the Planning Area had ever mentioned the existence of Supernatural Powers in this world.


    In this world, the armed forces still relied mainly on firearms, with agriculture and industry as the core industries.


    Even the major Sanctuaries, it was said, were built on the site of military factories, large farms, or industrial bases abandoned before the Cataclysm.


    "What''s going on here? Could it be... that the Supernatural Powers of this world are not widely known?"


    "Then... do the major Sanctuaries know about this?"


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu quickly sorted through his memories again.


    This time, he quickly noticed some clues.


    The first clue came from something a colleague who had been transferred to the City Hall let slip.


    He said that while the City Hall was accepting refugees from the Disaster Zone for free, they always had an odd request for the refugees: they were asked to mark out dense areas of animals and plants they encountered along the way from the Disaster Zone.


    The second clue came from a black market merchant while Qiu Tu was scrounging around the market.


    The merchant whispered to him that The military, one of the three major forces in Xinjie City, had been secretly collecting certain materials in the nearby Disaster Zone, but no one knew what exactly they were collecting.


    The third clue was something Yan Chen let slip when he''d had a little too much to drink.


    Once, seemingly out of the blue, Yan Chen received an unexpected commendation from above and held a small celebration banquet.


    At the banquet, after drinking a bit too much, he slapped the shoulders of those next to him and said: The Cataclysm may have destroyed human civilization, but it also presented humanity with new opportunities.


    When someone asked what he meant, Yan Chen just smiled without answering, and the next day, he vehemently denied ever saying such a thing.


    Because these three things were very scattered and all the mid-to-high-level managers coming down from the Sanctuary were so secretive, Qiu Tu didn''t think much of them before.


    But now, as he connected all the dots, Qiu Tu felt something was off.


    ''Could it be... that this world, because of the great Cataclysm, really gave birth to Supernatural Powers? And that all the Sanctuaries already possess these powers?''


    ''So, the reason they established various Planning Areas might be to collect all sorts of Cataclysm Materials and precious resources, right?''


    The more he analyzed, the more Qiu Tu felt that his speculation might be correct.


    Moreover, through this clue, he thought of even more possibilities.


    If the Sanctuary really had a way to make humans evolve and gain Supernatural Powers... then the Municipal Committee''s Commissioner Jiang, the big shot from the military, and Yan Chen... Could they all possess Supernatural Powers?


    After all, they were the key figures entrusted with important missions, coming to the Planning Area, a dangerous region, to execute official duties...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt even more pressure.


    After all, no one knew what kind of Supernatural Powers existed in this world, what direction they took, or what kind of powerful, bizarre, or magical effects they had.


    And this could make his situation even more dangerous...


    After pondering in silence for a while, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and exhaled the heavy pressure.


    ''Forget it, it''s useless to think too much, better to continue researching the Golden Finger.''


    Thinking this, he stopped dwelling on those troubles and once again turned his gaze to the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    He had casually clicked on the Treasure Chest earlier, which had triggered a reward, giving Qiu Tu encouragement.


    So he stretched out his hand to continue randomly clicking on the prompts and icons on the upper left corner.


    After about five or six clicks, a prompt actually popped up in front of him.


    ''Golden Finger Name'': Crisis Intuition (unfixed, refreshable)


    ''Golden Finger Type'': Trigger type


    ''Golden Finger Effect'': When facing a major crisis, Crisis Intuition will be triggered, giving a corresponding Crisis Warning. If the crisis is successfully overcome, a reward corresponding to the crisis can be obtained.


    ''Current Number of Refreshes'': 0


    Qiu Tu: ??!


    ''This is truly a pleasant surprise everywhere!''


    Qiu Tu swore that his random clicking was really just to not miss any possibility, but he didn''t hold much hope in his heart.


    As a result... he really did click on something incredible.


    What was this?


    The "true form" of his own Golden Finger?


    After analyzing the panel that appeared in front of him for a while, Qiu Tu broadly understood what it was.


    If he wasn''t wrong, he was not like the ordinary transmigrators.


    Most transmigrators only had one fixed Golden Finger, and the Golden Fingers they got were random. It might be useful, or it might not.


    But his... Golden Finger could be both fixed and "refreshed"!


    Hold on to a Golden Finger you like, get rid of one you don''t¡ªthis was simply the most powerful Golden Finger!


    The only pity was... the condition for refreshing was unknown.


    ''Looks like I need to continue my research.''


    Thinking like this, Qiu Tu once again started the "click click click" endeavor.


    But perhaps his luck had indeed run out, and this time, no matter how much he clicked, there was no response in front of him.


    ''It must be the wrong conditions for triggering it... right?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu stopped researching the Golden Finger.


    Having been given a second chance at life, his current mindset was very good: After all, he had already been a dead man, so transmigrating to this new world and living an extra second meant he was already making a profit!


    So... use the Golden Finger if you have it, and if not, forge your own path!


    Without discontent or giving oneself pressure, fully enjoy this brand new life!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu smiled as he straightened his clothes, then opened the door and left the bathroom, ready to meet the "ally" who was still sleeping on his bed...


    [4:52:03]....

 Chapter 4 Xiao Bai Hua

    When he entered the bedroom, Qin Shuman was still sleep, her seductive figure sprawled luxuriously across the bed.She lay on her side, her beautiful hair randomly strewn by the pillow like black velvet.


    The soft, thin quilt wrapped around her jade-like body, faintly revealing the graceful lines of her back and a waist that one could seemingly grasp with a hand. With each breath, her lovely body contoured a bewitching and enchanting silhouette, igniting endless fantasies.


    She was an incredibly beautiful woman, the likes of which Qiu Tu had seldom seen even in his past life, and she exuded an even stranger sense of being out of place in this world.


    Standing by the bed, he silently admired this creature for a while, looking at the origin of all these troubles, Qiu Tu tugged at his collar and, without any hesitation, pounced....


    Startled by Qiu Tu''s sudden weight, Qin Shuman, who was in deep sleep, was taken aback. While struggling, she whispered softly, "Wait, wait a moment."


    "Be good, I can''t wait..."


    .....


    .....


    Twenty minutes later, Qiu Tu leaned against the headboard, holding the sultry Qin Shuman and contentedly lit a cigarette: The mistress of a big shot is indeed different, very smooth!


    This was not a loss.


    Even if someday he stumbled while walking the tightrope and was killed by Yan Chen, at least he had had the experience, so he wouldn''t be considered a fall guy.


    At that moment, perhaps sensing a change in Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman leaned on his shoulder and asked curiously, tilting her head, "You, you seem a little different."


    "Really?" Qiu Tu held her shoulder, took one final drag of his cigarette, crushed the butt on the table and said indifferently, "Maybe it''s because I''ve died once."


    "What? What?" Qin Shuman was a little stunned and turned her head in surprise to look at him upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words.


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted Qin Shuman''s pale, smooth back, "Just kidding."


    With a sigh of relief, Qin Shuman rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, "You scared me to death."


    Qiu Tu said, "What I mean is, we might be about to die."


    "Yan Chen already knows about us."


    Qin Shuman: ??


    Perhaps because the news was too shocking, Qin Shuman, with a clutch of the thin quilt to her chest, sat up abruptly, looking at Qiu Tu in utter amazement.


    Qiu Tu appeared unconcerned, but the corners of his eyes were surreptitiously observing Qin Shuman, trying to determine whether her surprise was genuine or feigned.


    But whether because her acting was too good or some other reason, after observing her closely for a full two seconds, he couldn''t detect any flaw in Qin Shuman''s reaction.


    So he patted Qin Shuman''s slender arm, then, feigning confusion, he asked, "Didn''t you think we might get caught when you came out with me?"


    Qin Shuman was clearly bewildered, her face a picture of cluelessness, "No."


    "You just said you wanted to take me out to have fun."


    "I... I never thought that we would..."


    As she spoke, she looked down at their naked bodies and began to panic, hurriedly picking up their clothes to put them on.


    Qiu Tu raised his hand to stop her, "If I were you, I''d take a shower first to clean up the traces."


    "Otherwise, you might get stains on your clothes."


    Qin Shuman halted in her actions.


    Qiu Tu''s hand gently glided over her smooth back, "But don''t wet your hair, and don''t use any toilet articles so as not to leave a scent."


    "Try to make yourself as clean as possible."


    "Yan Chen has a very sensitive nose."


    Qin Shuman: .....


    After a brief two-second pause, Qin Shuman glared fiercely at Qiu Tu and then, clutching her clothes, jumped out of bed and ran "pitter-patter" towards the bathroom.


    Watching Qin Shuman''s bewitching back, Qiu Tu touched his chin with a puzzled expression on his face.


    Something was off... still off... S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps owing to his time in the past life, swindling day in and day out in a fraud syndicate, since crossing into this world, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but doubt everything.


    He felt that Qin Shuman''s behavior seemed too naive and lacking in cunning.


    If he were to make a comparison, the Planning Area of this world was like the Mexico and Laos from his previous life....


    Chaos, bloody, lawless.


    How could such a place give rise to someone as innocuous and clueless¡ªyet beautiful¡ªas a white lotus?


    Could this be too much of a fantasy?


    His predecessor, having grown up in the Planning Area, had not seen a beautiful girl and was blinded by "love (lust)" failing to notice anything odd. But he, from his previous life, had seen too many beautiful ladies.


    The shrewd, the foolish, the innocent¡ªall would be forced into degeneration, into numbness, in that environment... So Qiu Tu really did not believe that Qin Shuman could be such a pure flower.


    ''A shrewd woman who is good at disguising herself?''


    Qiu Tu tried to come to a verdict about Qin Shuman. But then, he stumbled upon a new question...


    Why would such a clever woman take such a big risk to have an affair with him?


    Himself, or rather, his predecessor, what did he have that was worth her making such a large investment?


    If Qiu Tu had just now, in order to save their lives, fabricated some half-true, half-false intelligence about Qin Shuman to deceive Yan Chen. Then now, he really started to doubt Qin Shuman....


    [4:30:13]


    ...


    Ten minutes later, Qin Shuman, neatly dressed, walked out of the bathroom.


    As she stepped out of the door, she took a deep breath, raised her head, and was about to call Qiu Tu out for a chat.


    Just then, a pistol was slowly pressed against her temple.


    The metal barrel felt ice-cold.


    In that moment, Qin Shuman completely stiffened, not daring to move an inch.


    They were at a standoff for a good ten seconds; seeing that the other party did not proceed with further action, Qin Shuman stiffly turned her head bit by bit, following the direction of the pistol.


    Then she saw Qiu Tu leaning against the door, with the gun pressed against her temple, while his gaze was deep, watching her intently.


    And as Qin Shuman looked over, Qiu Tu slowly spoke up,


    "Miss Shuman, who do you belong to?"


    "The Municipal Committee? Commissioner An? Commissioner Wang?"


    "Or... the military?"


    Seeing that it was Qiu Tu holding the gun at her, disbelief etched on her face, Qin Shuman said, "What are you going crazy about?"


    "What Municipal Committee, what military!"


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about!"


    Qiu Tu still did not see any flaws, so he retracted the gun without a change in expression, pretending to be satisfied, he nodded, "Good. You''ll need to keep up this act when we go back."


    He said, "I told Yan Chen that you might be a spy planted by ''The Military'' at his side."


    Seeing Qin Shuman''s surprised attempt to argue, Qiu Tu raised his hand to stop her, "This is the only way to ensure we stay alive."


    "Yan Chen is inherently distrustful. Unless he completely figures out your identity and fully assesses the gains and losses, he won''t lay a finger on you."


    "And if you want to live, we''ll have to work closely together; there''s no choice."


    "Scenarios like the one just now, you might face quite often in the coming days."


    "You must remain calm and not reveal any flaws."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, fear was apparent on Qin Shuman''s face.


    Shaking, she said, "I''m scared. I dare not. I''m afraid he''ll find out."


    "If he finds out, he won''t spare us."


    "Is that right..." Qiu Tu thought for a while, then reached behind to pull out a police dagger, and handed it to Qin Shuman.

 Chapter 5 This is the Chaotic Era

    Looking at the dagger in her hand, Qin Shuman looked up at Qiu Tu and asked with a trembling voice, "You... you want me to use this to kill him if things are exposed?"Qiu Tu shook his head, he reached out and patted Qin Shuman''s heavy chest, saying,


    "If you find out that things have been exposed, pull it out and stab yourself here, stir it around, you''ll feel nothing in two seconds."


    "Trust me, being dead is better than living a life worse than death."


    Qin Shuman: ....


    Her face shifted through several expressions before her eyes reddened, and she heavily pounded Qiu Tu a few times with her hand, "You are such an asshole!"


    Her voice was laced with sobs, "You tricked me into bed, and now you want me to do something so dangerous."


    "I shouldn''t have come out today, I just shouldn''t have."


    Qiu Tu stared intently at the emotions on her face, seeing that she seemed truly frightened and regretful, so he showed her his tender side. He gently embraced the girl before him, patting her back, trying to comfort her.


    But behind her back, where the girl could not see, his gaze turned notably deep, filled with a darkness so thick it could not be dispersed....


    ....


    Women are indeed made of water.


    Qin Shuman''s tears were abundant, as was the water in other areas.


    Qiu Tu spent over ten minutes pacifying her before Qin Shuman gradually stopped crying.


    After soothing Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu pulled her over to sit on the battered sofa, ran through their story again, and briefly explained the next steps he needed her to cooperate with. He made sure she memorized it well before pulling her out of his home.


    At that moment, there were 4 hours and 10 minutes left until the life and death trial of that night....


    ...


    Stepping out of his home, Qiu Tu sniffed the decaying smell of the corridor and looked up at the sky.


    The sky of this world was overcast, as if perpetually shrouded by a thick miasma, heavy and dark.


    According to the memory of his predecessor, the sky had been like this ever since the Cataclysm, with sunshine becoming rare and precious.


    The Cataclysm that occurred decades ago had destroyed the world''s Order, demolished human civilization, and completely changed this world....


    "What... are you thinking about?" Seeing Qiu Tu in a daze, Qin Shuman, standing beside him, cautiously glanced over at him.


    Perhaps because she had recently had a gun pointed at her, Qin Shuman showed a bit of fear towards Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses, gave her a glance, and shook his head, "It''s nothing."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu lightly reminded her, "Don''t show that kind of expression. You''ll just get the both of us killed."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman gave him a pitiful look, took a few deep breaths, and adjusted her demeanor.


    Then she slapped her face, nodded at Qiu Tu, and carefully led the way down, holding onto the rust-streaked stair railing.


    Qiu Tu followed behind discreetly, keeping a moderate distance from Qin Shuman, close enough to ensure her safety without appearing too intimate.


    Qiu Tu''s home was located in a tube-shaped building on Old Alley Street. Even though this was already considered a nicer area in Xinjie City, it was still dilapidated:


    Stairs covered with cracks and gaps, corridors littered with discarded books, broken glass, and dirty plastic bags. It looked like a slum.


    ¡ªThe Planning Area was built upon the ruins of a city.


    Descending the worn staircase, Qiu Tu keenly sensed several covert gazes sweeping over them.


    ''It must be Yan Chen''s people.''


    As soon as he had reported the matter to Yan Chen, Qiu Tu guessed that given Yan Chen''s character, he would surely send people to monitor and observe.


    Moreover, he had guessed that, given the sensitivity of the matter, Yan Chen would definitely have to call trustworthy confidants from his direct department¡ªthat''s why he dared to steal a moment from his busy schedule to manipulate Qin Shuman.


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu was thinking this, an undercover detective stepped out from the shadows.


    He had a stern face, unsmiling and seemingly difficult to get along with.


    After taking big strides to Qiu Tu, he first gave Qiu Tu a penetrating look, then took out a black ID and flashed it, saying, "Agent Qiu, I am Fang Ming, a First Level Detective from the Special Service Department."


    "By the Bureau Chief''s orders, I am here to escort you and Miss Shuman to a villa in the city for a temporary rest. The Bureau Chief will speak with you tonight."


    ''Special Service Department?'' Qiu Tu looked deeply at the detective in front of him and felt a bit sentimental, "Yan Chen really holds me in high regard."


    As one of the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, the structure of the Investigation Bureau was complex and strict. In addition to the directly subordinate eleven departments, there were also seven branches and seventy-nine Public Security Offices under its jurisdiction.


    Among these dozens of departments, the one with the least power was the grassroots Public Security Office, while the ones with the most power were the Political Department and the Special Service Department among the eleven directly subordinate departments.


    As the two strongest departments of the Investigation Bureau:


    The Political Department was in charge of intelligence, espionage, counter-espionage, internal supervision, and various other affairs, holding a high and heavy authority.


    The Special Service Department, on the other hand, was responsible for countering anti-government armed forces, preventing riots, armed patrols during specific periods and in key areas, making it the Bureau''s most powerful force.


    Such a division of labor not only gave the Special Service Department an establishment independent of the Investigation Bureau but also allowed it to possess luxuriously equipped forces that could rival the military in power.


    This was an armed force that belonged solely to Yan Chen''s lineage, and it was also the key trump card that allowed him to secure his position as one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City.


    Therefore, even as Yan Chen''s "lackey," Qiu Tu could only obediently follow the orders of the Special Service Department.


    ''It looks like... Yan Chen is planning to lock down my and Qin Shuman''s movements, and then proceed to direct interrogation,'' Qiu Tu thought.


    ''Luckily, I have arranged a safety net.''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu, although expressionless, turned to Qin Shuman at his side and said, "Miss Shuman, you have heard the Bureau Chief''s order. From now on, your safety will be in the hands of Agent Fang."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman blinked her eyes.


    She cooperated by showing a look of disappointment, glanced at Fang Ming with her beautiful, peach-like eyes, and then turned to Qiu Tu with a grievance, saying, "But... I was hoping you would accompany me to Street Crossing for a stroll."


    After she spoke, she looked pitifully at Fang Ming, "Agent Fang..."


    As a confidant of Yan Chen, Fang Ming certainly recognized Qin Shuman and also knew about the relationship between Qin Shuman and Yan Chen.


    Since Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman''s affair had not been exposed, and Yan Chen would not tell a subordinate about being cuckolded, this immediately led Fang Ming to a misjudgment.


    He hesitated for a moment, glanced at the time, and, after a moment of thought, said to Qin Shuman, "Miss Shuman, the Bureau Chief will return to the villa in the city center before 18:00. I can only get you one and a half hours of time."


    Qin Shuman obediently nodded her head and agreed.


    Qiu Tu stood by with his hands in his pockets, watching coldly, like an outsider throughout the process.


    After reaching a consensus, Qin Shuman''s security was promptly handed over.


    The detective from the Special Service Department took over Qiu Tu''s position and began guarding next to Qin Shuman, while Qiu Tu and Fang Ming patrolled the periphery, with the group moving grandiosely towards the street corner.


    Perhaps because such a group of neatly dressed people were too conspicuous on the street, the bottom-level citizens hiding in the dilapidated buildings did not dare to move, their gazes filled with fear, numbness, or dullness as they watched them walk past on the sewage-filled road, afraid to provoke these clearly prominent individuals.


    For most ordinary people in the city, whether it was Qiu Tu or Fang Ming, they were big shots who could easily decide their fate.


    What they didn''t know was that in front of the real big shots, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming were just like ants...


    This was the cruel reality, a cannibalistic world born from the Cataclysm... S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The detectives on the scene were already immune to these various gazes, so their expressions remained unchanged as they quietly escorted Qin Shuman through rows of low, run-down buildings to an old-fashioned sedan.


    This was a car specially prepared by Yan Chen for Qin Shuman.


    Seeing the old-fashioned sedan, Fang Ming quickly walked over, then reached out to open the rear car door, and offered a standard salute to Qin Shuman, "Miss Shuman, please."


    Qin Shuman turned her head to look back at Qiu Tu, and without receiving any response from him, she bit her lip with a look of resentful longing and lifted her skirt to walk over.


    Just as she reached the car door and bent her head to get in, suddenly from above her came a man''s teasing voice, "Heh heh, how embarrassing~"


    Upon hearing that voice, everyone looked around in confusion only to see a blur before them, and then with a "bang!" a body slammed heavily onto the roof of the old-fashioned sedan!


    In that instant, the roof of the car was smashed into a deep dent, and the broken body, with blood splattering and limbs flying, created chaos!


    The piercing screams and the wild laughter echoed throughout Old Alley Street...


    Such a major incident happening so suddenly left everyone with their heads buzzing.


    Only Qiu Tu maintained his composure at this moment, quickly stepping forward to protect the screaming Qin Shuman as they ran to the side.


    At the same time, the detectives from the Special Service Department also came to their senses. Like arrows shot out, they surrounded the two, raising their guns without hesitation and opening fire towards the rooftop...

 Chapter 6 Extremist Organization

    "Bang Bang!" "Bang Bang!" "Bang Bang!"Bullets flew chaotically, kicking up dust from the decrepit rooftops.


    The street was filled with the piercing screams of passersby and the sound of footsteps running in all directions.


    Qiu Tu shielded a trembling Qin Shuman as they ran to a fragmented low wall by the roadside, pressing her head down to hide her while cautiously peering out to assess the situation.


    The enemies were few, only seven or eight in number.


    They wore uniform black knit balaclava hats and patched-up tactical vests, with a large red cross spray-painted on their chests.


    That conspicuous attire allowed Qiu Tu to recognize them at a glance, ''Is this... the Innovative United Front?''


    The Innovative United Front, also known as the United Front, was an extremist anti-government armed force opposing the rule of the Eight Great Shelters of this world.


    Their objective was to liberate the Planning Area from the rule of the Eight Great Shelters, employing violent activities such as assassinations, kidnappings, and attacks as their main methods.


    Qiu Tu had heard Yan Chen mention this organization before. At that time, Yan Chen was so angry that his eyes nearly split apart as he cursed the organization as vermin!


    He hadn''t expected to actually see them today.


    If Qiu Tu could recognize the members of this organization, then Fang Ming and the other Special Service detectives certainly could as well.


    Therefore, the detectives'' shouts immediately filled the area,


    "It''s the vermin from the United Front!"


    "Take cover!"


    "On the rooftop, direction 30-70 degrees, 16 people, all armed!"


    At this moment, Fang Ming, the highest-ranking detective on site, fully took over the command of the scene; while frantically gesturing to his subordinates to disperse, he also shouted towards Qiu Tu''s side, "Ensure Miss Shuman''s safety, wait for us to eliminate the enemy!"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s arrangement, Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Shuman out of the corner of his eye.


    At the moment, Qin Shuman was still in a state of shock; cowering beneath him, she dared not move. Without any movement or unusual signs, but Qiu Tu felt something was amiss.


    Old Alley Street was just the most unremarkable out of Xinjie City''s seventy-nine streets. There were no military facilities, no government agencies, no United Banks¡ªnothing. Why would it be attacked by the United Front without any reason?


    Were they drawn here by those detectives from the Special Service Department?


    But... wasn''t that too coincidental?


    Qiu Tu couldn''t understand it and decided to observe a little longer.


    He peered cautiously to take in the scene.


    With one look, he was a bit startled.


    The Special Service Department was the most powerful force of the Investigation Bureau, and the United Front was known as a ferocious extremist organization. Qiu Tu originally thought there would be exchanges of fire and fierce combat between the two sides.


    But... the reality was that over thirty people from both sides, armed with over thirty guns, opened fire with a "bang, bang, bang." Though it was noisy, at best only some were injured, yet not a single person dropped out of the fight.


    Witnessing this scene of novices pecking at each other, Qiu Tu was shocked.


    What was this? An act?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu quickly rifled through his memory, trying to understand what was really happening.


    Soon, he found the reason.


    It turned out that in a world after a Cataclysm, resources were scarce. Gunpowder and firearms were rare resources. Hence the members of the extremist organizations had little training and were mediocre in skills.


    While the Special Service Department was indeed a powerful branch of the Investigation Bureau with many perks and bullet quotas, the fact was that Xinjie City had only been established for less than a year, and the lower-ranking detectives were mostly newly recruited novices without much training, which also made their skills quite average.


    This resulted in incapacitating the other party effectively when both sides engaged in combat. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This unexpected discovery shocked Qiu Tu, but it also gave him a bold idea...


    Perhaps this was a good opportunity to break the deadlock?


    Keep in mind, although those two groups were incompetent, Qiu Tu was not!


    In his past life, to protect himself, he had played with guns every day, practiced shooting, and even had the opportunity to receive semi-militarized training. With his not-so-poor innate talent, his level was way above these rookies.


    He had even participated in a few small-scale squabbles and shootouts between gangs, acquiring some actual combat experience.


    If he could showcase his shooting skills in this gunfight, then operate a bit... perhaps tonight''s difficulty could be easily overcome, and he might not even need to head to Street Crossing....


    Slowly outlining a blueprint in his mind, before long, a plan gradually took shape in Qiu Tu''s head.


    A moment later, Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute.


    He took another look at the two parties in the midst of battle, then took out his old-model communicator from his pocket, pressed a few buttons, and sent a message.


    After the message was successfully sent, Qiu Tu reached toward his lower back and took the handgun that had once been pointed at Qin Shuman.


    This was the standard equipment given to the regular detectives by the Investigation Bureau, used to ensure absolute suppression over civilians in the Planning Area....


    He deftly ejected the magazine and checked the number of bullets: 12.


    Then he recalled the memories of the previous owner using this handgun.


    It had an effective range of about 40 meters, but since the guns of ordinary detectives were all old goods discarded by the Sanctuary, their precision might be somewhat off.


    However, for the current distance of just over twenty meters between the two sides, it was already enough.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu adeptly reinserted the magazine, rack the slide, and with high alert posture, observed the battlefield, patiently waiting for an opportunity.


    It was only a few seconds before Qiu Tu''s peripheral vision caught an enemy expose a large part of their body from cover on the opposite rooftop.


    In that instance, he didn''t hesitate for a second, suddenly leaning out and adopting the Weaver stance, aligning the sight in a straight line, and aimed at the enemy with a "Pop pop pop!" firing three shots!


    Gun smoke lingered, bullet shells flew, and three bullets like thunder tore through the air, striking towards that enemy with lightning speed.


    The timing Qiu Tu chose was so impeccable that the enemy had no chance to dodge!


    Thus, with a "crack!" "bang bang!" three sounds, a bullet whizzed past his body, and two bullets accurately penetrated his left abdomen and left leg!


    In that instant, the enemy, as if struck by a hammer, staggered uncontrollably! The next second, two blooms of blood blossomed, quickly staining his clothes red!


    "Thud!" He crumpled onto the rooftop, moaning and out of the fight!


    This was the first casualty since the start of the battle, so the entire battlefield seemed to freeze for a second at that moment.


    The detectives from the Special Service Department reflexively shifted their gaze towards Qiu Tu, as if seeing him for the first time.


    Meanwhile, the thugs from the extremist organization were taken aback, scrambling for cover and counterattacking in Qiu Tu''s direction.


    But by that time, Qiu Tu had already withdrawn back to cover well in advance, stray bullets whizzing past, hitting the wall he was hiding behind with a "bang bang," but they couldn''t harm him in the slightest.


    And so, under the sudden surprise of Qiu Tu''s intervention, the battlefield entered a brief period of calm. Neither side dared to shoot carelessly like before, becoming much more cautious instead.


    But... novices are novices, and even with extreme caution, they could still easily reveal flaws.


    Thus, it wasn''t long before Qiu Tu spotted another enemy leaving their cover, and he decisively moved his gun muzzle, firing three shots once again!


    "Pop pop pop!" "Bang!"


    This time, luck was average, and only one of the three bullets hit the enemy''s right chest, but it still succeeded in eliminating the opponent''s combat capability.


    But that was enough!


    If wounding an enemy badly the first time could be coincidence, doing so again crisply and efficiently the second time was hardly likely to be another coincidence.


    So...


    "Retreat! Retreat!"


    The opponents, who were just a bunch of disorganized soldiers, now saw that Qiu Tu was a "sharpshooter" and lost their will to fight, quickly carrying their wounded away in a frantic retreat.


    The low slanted rooftops of the abandoned city provided perfect cover for retreating, so the detectives from the Special Service Department bluffed with a few more shots before letting the enemy flee without pursuing.


    And as the anti-government army retreated, the detectives from the Special Service Department finally began to emerge from their various covers slowly.


    They looked at Qiu Tu with complicated expressions, opening their mouths several times as if to speak, but not knowing quite what to say...

 Chapter 7 Primogeniture Power

    As the Investigation Bureau''s ace department, the Special Service Department enjoyed abundant training resources, handsome remuneration, and always looked down on other departments from their lofty perch.Faced with ordinary agents like Qiu Tu, the detectives of the Special Service Department felt an overwhelming sense of superiority, believing that their abilities far exceeded Qiu Tu''s. That''s why they told Qiu Tu to hide at the first sign of an ambush, waiting for them to eliminate the enemy.


    However... the situation didn''t unfold as they had envisioned. Their routine training was of little use in real combat. After dozens of shots, only two or three mobsters were hit.


    Instead, it was this ordinary agent they had underestimated who stepped up in such a time, effortlessly neutralizing two enemies with two shots and repelling the enemy attack all by himself.


    This caused them to question their life choices, and their gazes at Qiu Tu began to change...


    Qiu Tu keenly sensed the shift in the atmosphere, but he didn''t allow himself to become complacent. Instead, he coolly engaged the safety on his weapon, tucked the gun back into his waistband, and warned, "Let''s not drop our guard, guys. Be careful of a second enemy attack."


    After speaking, he turned to Fang Ming, "Agent Fang, should you perhaps report to the Bureau Chief about the situation here? See if the Political Department or Security Section needs to get involved."


    Upon Qiu Tu''s reminder, the other detectives remembered that the danger wasn''t fully resolved yet. They quickly began to divide the tasks, some standing guard around, others moving to Qin Shuman''s side for protection, and some started to climb onto rooftops to search for clues.


    As for Fang Ming, he readily pulled out a communicator and began to report to Yan Chen.


    While the Special Service detectives were busy, a clamor of footsteps and shouts suddenly erupted at the entrance of the street.


    "Brother Tu! Brother Tu!" "Hurry! Hurry!" "Here! Here!"


    About a dozen uniformed detectives, though somewhat disheveled, grasped worn police batons and rushed in haste from the corner of the western street.


    Leading them was an exceptionally burly detective.


    Standing at one meter ninety, with a physique like a bear and a back like a tiger, his arms were as thick as the average person''s thighs, which unavoidably made one''s heart tighten at the sight of him.


    Unlike the other detectives who carried police batons, he wielded a sledgehammer the size of a fist, his eyes fierce and murderous. If not for the tight-fitting detective uniform that seemed ready to burst, he resembled more a blood-stained mobster than an officer.


    "Special Service handling a case! Which department are you from!"


    Seeing the group of unfamiliar, aggressively approaching detectives, the Special Service detectives standing guard to the west stepped forward vigilantly and sharply halted them.


    Perhaps intimidated by the newcomers'' numbers, his hand even moved toward the pistol at his back, looking as though he would draw it at the slightest provocation.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, hearing the noise, also looked over and instantly focused on the muscular leading detective.


    "Ah-Tai!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the strong detective became even more agitated, waving his small sledgehammer and preparing to rush forward.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly addressed the detaining Special Service detective, "They are temporary investigators from Old Alley Street; I called them to assist with the case. Let them through."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Special Service detective hesitated for a moment but ultimately nodded and stepped aside to let them pass.


    With the Special Service no longer obstructing them, the group of temporary detectives hastily came through and surrounded Qiu Tu.


    After stealthily excluding the views of the others, the burly Ah-Tai closed in on Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Brother Tu, as soon as we received your message, we rushed over. Did something happen?"


    Then, with fierce eyes, he glanced at the detective who had initially stopped him and quietly asked, "Did that guy give you trouble?"


    "Don''t worry. Just say the word, and I''ll squat by his door tonight, catch him off guard, and give his skull a couple of whacks with the hammer, guaranteeing he won''t see tomorrow''s sun!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s menacing words, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon him as he recalled the identity of the group before him...


    Although his predecessor had been Yan Chen''s lackey, his position within the Investigation Bureau wasn''t high, merely a Second-Class Investigator, and his role was in the weak Administrative Office. So, upon leaving Yan Chen, he had virtually no influence in the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Fortunately, the predecessor was a loyal person. After ingratiating himself with Yan Chen, he did not forget the brothers who had struggled with him at the bottom.


    Therefore, after being promoted to a Second-Class Investigator and gaining a bit of power, the predecessor, using Yan Chen''s name, secretly arranged jobs for his dozen or so brothers.


    Although they were only temporary investigators at the grassroots Public Security Office, without ranks or guns, they at least had a regular ration and hope for a permanent position.


    These brothers did not let down Qiu Tu''s loyalty, either. After becoming temporary investigators, they still looked up to Qiu Tu as the leading figure. They were always ready to take action. Many of the things Qiu Tu couldn''t do personally were handled by them.


    One could say they were in the same boat with Qiu Tu, sharing both honor and loss. They were Qiu Tu''s true direct force in this world.


    That''s why, on receiving a single message from Qiu Tu, they hurried over, armed with police gear.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t treat them as outsiders; instead, he naturally spoke in a low voice, "Did you bring the things I asked you to?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Ah-Tai nodded, then turned to look at a detective with a hooked nose beside him, "Eagle."


    The detective with the hooked nose reached into his coat and pulled out a weighty little cloth bag, handing it to Qiu Tu. As it passed from hand to hand, the "clang" of dully clashing metal came from inside the small cloth bag.


    Qiu Tu took it, opened it to check, and confirmed it was what he wanted before tucking it into his jacket.


    Then, he clapped Ah-Tai on the shoulder and whispered a few instructions. Ah-Tai frowned as he nodded and listened.


    Their exchange appeared lengthy, but in reality, it lasted only a few brief seconds. So, by the time the detectives from the Special Service Department looked their way, Qiu Tu had already taken the initiative to lead the temporary investigators in search of Fang Ming.


    No one knew the extent of the arrangements Qiu Tu had secretly made in those short seconds.


    When they found Fang Ming, he had just ended a communication.


    Seeing Qiu Tu approach, he took the initiative to say, "Agent Qiu, you''ve arrived at the right time, I was about to come find you."


    He said, "I''ve just finished talking with the Bureau Chief. Learning about the attack from the Lianzhen mobsters, he''s extremely furious. He demands that the Political Department intervene and collaborate with the Special Service Department to jointly investigate and cleanse Xinjie City of the Lianzhen mobsters."


    "Due to the current chaos in the city, he has ordered you and Miss Shuman to return to your city villa as soon as possible and not to linger outside." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu covertly glanced at the countdown timer at the top left corner of his vision.


    [3:28:12]


    The countdown hadn''t changed, indicating that Yan Chen likely didn''t plan to interrogate him and Qin Shuman ahead of time, but simply wanted to prevent them from going to Street Crossing.


    If this were Qiu Tu before the shootout, such a change might have been troubling. But now...


    "Alright. No problem," Qiu Tu responded nonchalantly.


    He even remembered his own plan. With Ah-Tai behind him, he said to Fang Ming, "Agent Fang, this is my cousin Ah-Tai. He''s currently a temporary investigator on Old Alley Street."


    "Hearing about the shootout here, he immediately brought his colleagues to assist."


    "What do you suggest we do...?"

 Chapter 8 Greed

    Earlier when Qiu Tu came by, Fang Ming had already noticed Ah-Tai.After all, in a world where the average height following the Catastrophe was around five-foot-three to five-foot-seven, the six-foot-three Ah-Tai stood out like a crane among chickens. Plus, with his broad shoulders and muscular build, it was hard not to draw attention. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, hearing what Qiu Tu said, Fang Ming sized up Ah-Tai and showed a look of interest on his face.


    But he didn''t say much, simply nodding his head, "Okay. Then leave three or four to help maintain order here."


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu looked at the group of temporary detectives and after a moment of thought, called out, "Ah-Kun, Monkey, Ah-Shui. You three stay with Ah-Tai to maintain order here."


    "The rest of you head back to the Public Security Office."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu made a covert gesture towards the man with the aquiline nose standing next to Ah-Tai.


    The man with the aquiline nose nodded subtly without a word, then led the other temporary detectives away from the scene¡­


    ......


    After arranging for Ah-Tai, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming escorted Qin Shuman back to her townhouse in the city center, while the other Special Service detectives remained on standby at the scene, maintaining order and waiting for the Political Department personnel to arrive.


    On the way back, Qin Shuman sat in the back seat of the old sedan, Fang Ming in the passenger seat, while Qiu Tu drove.


    The predecessor managed to suck up to Yan Chen and become a detective chiefly because of the rare driving skills in the Planning Area. The modern-day Qiu Tu, having come from the contemporary era, naturally had no issues with his driving skills either.


    So, watching Qiu Tu drive steadily, Fang Ming asked curiously,


    "Agent Qiu, your driving is quite good. Do all from the Administrative Office have this skill?"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s question, Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and responded with a smile, "The Administrative Office is there to provide logistical support for various departments after all. We need to have a mix of random talents."


    "Unlike you guys in the Special Service Department, with good treatment, better equipment, and greater power, you just need to train peacefully without worrying about anything else."


    As he spoke, he feigned a sense of envy, "All departments envy you guys and would want to transfer there."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Ming just grunted in assent, not bothering with pleasantries. Although Qiu Tu was somewhat flattering, what he said was true. As one of the two ace departments of the Investigation Bureau, the Special Service Department indeed was the division all detectives wished to join.


    However, the entry threshold for the Special Service Department was high; even in its early stages, it required physical capabilities far above the ordinary people of this post-Cataclysm world. Ordinary detectives simply could not join.


    With that thought, the image of Ah-Tai''s muscular and robust stature suddenly popped into Fang Ming''s mind, and he was involuntarily intrigued. Then, probing, he asked, "Agent Qiu, that Ah-Tai¡­"


    Seeing Fang Ming taking the bait, a subtle smile crept across Qiu Tu''s lips. However, he remained composed and, sticking to the plan, began to introduce Ah-Tai with a mix of truth and fiction,


    "Oh, Ah-Tai. He''s a distant cousin of mine. He''s been daring and combative since childhood, with a hearty temperament, but¡­ well, he''s not the brightest bulb in the chandelier."


    "Back when Xinjie City was still the Disaster Zone, he had joined a gang and got his hands bloodied."


    "Later, when Xinjie City was about to be established, the military came in early to clear out the underground forces, their gang was eradicated, and he was marked for resisting the military, and he had to hide out even after Xinjie City was established."


    "So later, when the Bureau Chief was recruiting detectives to establish the Investigation Bureau, he didn''t participate in the selection."


    "I received help from his parents when I was young. After I became a detective, he came to rely on me, and I couldn''t very well refuse, so I pulled some strings to clean his record and introduced him as a temporary detective on Old Alley Street."


    "Though he''s a bit rough and simple-minded, he knows to repay a debt of gratitude. That''s why when he heard I was attacked today, he didn''t hesitate to bring his colleagues over to help."


    In just a few sentences, Qiu Tu had laid out Ah-Tai''s "history" and character, giving Fang Ming a general impression.


    Yet he didn''t say anything more, as if he was just asking casually.


    As Qiu Tu drove, he kept stealing glances at Fang Ming from the corner of his eye. Seeing Fang Ming deep in thought, Qiu Tu felt assured that things were likely settled.


    He had steered the topic towards the Special Service Department precisely to tempt Fang Ming.


    Being a First Level Detective in the Special Service Department, Fang Ming had the power to recommend regular detectives into the Special Service Department.


    These recommended detectives naturally carried the label of their sponsors and became the direct subordinates of the latter.


    Therefore, in a situation where the Special Service Department is not yet fully staffed, every team leader will do their utmost to scout for talent and claim it for their own use.


    That''s why Qiu Tu deliberately showed off Ah-Tai in front of Fang Ming and casually steered the conversation towards "joining the Special Service Department". He was tempting Fang Ming...


    Once Fang Ming was interested and recommended Ah-Tai to the Special Service Department, it would be as though Qiu Tu had planted a spy in the strongest department of the Investigation Bureau, which would make many operations much more convenient.


    His past life experiences in a fraud syndicate taught Qiu Tu that "greed" is humanity''s greatest original sin, and that wisely exploiting "the enemy''s greed" is the most powerful weapon in the world...


    This was the case with Fang Ming, as it was with Yan Chen tonight...


    ....


    Xinjie City was designated a Planning Area just a short year ago. Therefore, many parts were still in disarray and ruin. However... this did not include the districts of the privileged.


    As the military had come in advance to clean up the underground forces in Xinjie City, the future mid to high-level managers had already sent people to construct their residences in Xinjie City early on.


    Thus, when Qiu Tu drove to Yan Chen''s townhouse in the city, a vast garden greeted his eyes.


    In the garden, a plethora of precious flowers were meticulously planted: mutated Dendrobium nobile, mutated Allium, and mutated Chrysanthemum all vied for bloom, their fragrance overwhelming, like a vibrant oil painting.


    Along the winding paths, the shrubs were trimmed to perfection. The last rays of the setting sun cast a dreamy glow upon the path, stunningly beautiful.


    Through the rearview mirror, Qiu Tu glanced back at the dilapidated, old residential buildings and the potholed streets behind him, as if he was looking at two different worlds...


    Driving through the garden gate and under the scrutinous gaze of the Security Section agents at the gatehouse, Qiu Tu drove up to the villa''s entrance.


    Upon arriving, Fang Ming got out of the car first to open the door for Qin Shuman. However, Qin Shuman hesitated, seemingly reluctant to disembark.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment before persuasively hinting, "Miss Shuman, rest assured. The Bureau Chief won''t be angry just because you sneaked out to have fun."


    "I''ll explain it to him properly tonight."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman paused for a moment before sighing in relief as if she had understood, and then gingerly stepped out of the car, holding her dress and bowing her head.


    As he watched Qin Shuman and Fang Ming step by step enter the dark villa, Qiu Tu''s gaze became profound, his eyes unflustered...


    Then he drove to the backyard, handed over the car to a servant, and also stepped into the villa...


    [2:53:51]


    ...


    Three hours flew by in the blink of an eye.


    At 18:15 in the evening, the door to the guest room where Qiu Tu was temporarily resting was gently knocked.


    When Qiu Tu opened the door, standing outside was a maid in her thirties, barrel-waisted and dark-skinned.


    At the sight of the maid, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered. She was Qin Shuman''s personal maid and the key witness who had testified to Qiu Tu''s affair with Qin Shuman: Cui Lan.


    "Agent Qiu, the Bureau Chief requests your presence," Cui Lan said.


    Upon hearing Cui Lan''s words, Qiu Tu''s face remained as calm as a lake''s surface.


    He glanced at the countdown timer in the upper left corner of his vision.


    [00:18]


    There''s no denying it, the Golden Finger is indeed precise. When it says five hours, it means exactly five hours.


    Thinking thus, he took a deep, silent breath, then straightened the collar of his uniform slightly before speaking in a low voice, "Thank you."


    Cui Lan nodded respectfully but couldn''t suppress the schadenfreude smile curling at the corners of her mouth as she turned away to lead the way.


    Qiu Tu sharply captured the change in her expression but said nothing. His gaze, however, grew ever more intense...

 Chapter 9 Showtime!

    Upon leaving the room, Qiu Tu followed behind Cui Lan.He walked at a measured pace, his demeanor composed. The flickering lights in the hallway cast his tall shadow, like a painting in motion.


    Soon, the two arrived at the entrance of an elegantly decorated study.


    At the entrance of the study waited a middle-aged man with rimmed glasses and a scholarly demeanor. He was dressed in a well-tailored Zhongshan suit, with a duplicitous smile hanging on his face, resembling a sly fox.


    Qiu Tu recognized him, he was the director of the Political Department at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Yan Chen''s right-hand man, his chief strategist: Jia Shu.


    Despite his genteel and courteous appearance, only those who had truly dealt with him knew how cruel and bloody his methods could be.


    The Political Department''s reputation for instilling fear throughout Xinjie City was largely due to him.


    Each midnight, the blurred corpses carried out from the Political Department could be attributed to this sly fox more often than not.


    He was like a shadow cast by the Investigation Bureau''s vast reach, silently penetrating every corner of the city, unfathomable and omnipresent...


    Thus, upon seeing Jia Shu, Qiu Tu immediately became alert. He quickly stopped and saluted Jia Shu, "Sir!"


    It seemed that Jia Shu had been waiting specifically for Qiu Tu. Upon seeing him, Jia Shu sized him up and then asked with a smile, "Qiu Tu?"


    After seeing Qiu Tu nod, Jia Shu''s smile grew wider, "The Bureau Chief is waiting for you. Please."


    Having said that, he turned and opened the study''s grand door, gesturing for Qiu Tu to enter.


    The light within the study was dim. Qiu Tu couldn''t tell if it was an illusion, but the open door felt like the gaping maw of a beast, ready to devour anyone at any moment...


    Today, however, he was prepared for a walk in the tiger''s den, so without revealing any emotion, he took a deep breath and stepped inside...


    .....


    Yan Chen''s study was spacious, but dimly lit. The large windows were draped with two thick curtains that blocked all outside light, casting large shadows.


    The only light in the study came from a desk lamp, which was dimmed to illuminate only a small area of the large rosewood desk. Yan Chen sat behind that desk in the shadows, where only his silhouette was faintly visible...


    "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Upon seeing the overlord of Xinjie City, Qiu Tu quickly straightened up and gave a respectful salute.


    But.....there was no response.


    Keeping his salute, Qiu Tu tried to discern Yan Chen''s expression, but the room was too dark to see anything clearly.


    He just felt that Yan Chen was observing him, a chilling gaze that made one''s scalp tingle and shudder in fear...


    After about a dozen seconds, a dull "Hmm" came from the shadows, "At ease."


    Qiu Tu let out a sigh of relief, lowered his hand, and then used his peripheral vision to scan the study.


    There was more than just Yan Chen in the study. Apart from Jia Shu, who had led Qiu Tu in and now stood beside Yan Chen, Fang Ming was also present, standing not far from Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Fang Ming, Qiu Tu''s heart stirred, and he had a rough guess: it looked like his arrangements from the afternoon might have had an effect.


    Indeed, accompanying this thought, Jia Shu, who stood by Yan Chen''s side, slowly began to speak.


    With a mocking smile, he looked at Qiu Tu and praised, "I hear... Agent Qiu has excellent marksmanship?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu replied earnestly, "Sir, my subordinate''s marksmanship is quite ordinary!"


    "Oh? Is that so?" Jia Shu said with an exaggerated expression of surprise, "But that''s not what I heard."


    His gaze swept over Fang Ming, who stood to the side, and he said with a sly grin, "Did you know that in just a few short hours, the news of a sharpshooter from the Administrative Office, repelling the United Front with six shots, has spread throughout the entire Investigation Bureau?"


    "Even some staff members at the City Hall have heard of it."


    "On my way here, I received at least three communications, all concerning you."


    Qiu Tu didn''t directly answer Jia Shu''s question. He turned to look at Yan Chen and then sincerely said, "Bureau Chief, you personally chose me to join the Investigation Bureau; you are aware of my abilities."


    "I''m all right with driving and handling matters. But my marksmanship is truly lacking."


    Yan Chen, seated in the shadows, sat upright in his chair, his gaze deep and tiger-like as he watched Qiu Tu without a word.


    Jia Shu adjusted the gold-framed glasses on the bridge of his nose and said with a smile, "Agent Qiu, are you implying... that this matter is a fabrication?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "No, it''s not fabricated. But there''s more to the story."


    Speaking, he glanced at Fang Ming beside him and earnestly said, "Agent Fang was at the scene at the time. He saw how formidable the United Front was."


    "The Special Service Department attacked with full firepower for over a minute and failed to injure a single member of the United Front."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Ming''s face suddenly looked a bit embarrassed. But in front of Yan Chen, he dared not hide anything, and could only nod slightly, speaking in a grave voice, "Yes."


    Having said that, he also took the initiative to admit his mistake, "It''s our lack of sufficient training and lack of real combat experience that led to disarray in our ranks."


    "But Bureau Chief, believe me, as long as..."


    He was only halfway through his sentence when he was interrupted by Qiu Tu, "Agent Fang, don''t underestimate yourself."


    Fang Ming frowned and looked at Qiu Tu, not understanding what Qiu Tu was really trying to say.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t even look at him, gazing directly at Yan Chen as he said, "Bureau Chief, the agents of the Special Service Department are actually very capable, it''s just that, today the United Front was intentionally avoiding their attacks."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu''s smile did not reach his eyes, as he said, "Agent Qiu must be joking. In battle, isn''t avoiding enemy attacks the very intention, rather than ''intentionally'' getting hit by the enemy?"


    After speaking, Jia Shu seemed to have thought of something, suddenly paused, and narrowed his eyes at Qiu Tu.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu finally revealed the first smile since entering the room. He nodded and said, "Correct! Those few shots of mine were intentionally allowed by them to hit!"


    Perhaps because Qiu Tu''s words seemed too preposterous, the study fell silent for a moment...


    After a while, Fang Ming looked at Qiu Tu, completely perplexed, and said, "Qiu Tu, what are you talking about? They let you hit them on purpose?"


    But before he could finish, the normally reticent Yan Chen suddenly spoke up, "Fang Ming, get out."


    Fang Ming looked at Yan Chen in the shadows with a face full of surprise, not understanding why he was suddenly being ordered to leave.


    But Yan Chen offered no explanation, only staring at him with that deep gaze.


    The heavy pressure swept over him, causing beads of sweat to form on Fang Ming''s forehead.


    After a moment, he lowered his head, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    Having said that, he saluted and walked quickly out of the study.


    As the study door closed behind him, Yan Chen slowly straightened up, his tiger-like eyes ominously fixed on Qiu Tu, "Tell me what exactly happened."


    Qiu Tu responded and then slowly began, "Bureau Chief, it''s a long story, starting from when we hung up the communication."


    He said, "After I hung up your call, I returned to Miss Shuman''s side and took the initiative to tell her about the communication with you."


    "She was startled, then asked me how I dealt with it."


    "I told her that I brushed you off with an excuse that wouldn''t arouse your suspicion, and once again expressed my affections for her."


    "Perhaps she saw that as my Letter of Challenge, so she finally stopped acting and hinted to me in a veiled manner that her identity was extraordinary. As long as I remained loyal to her, she could guarantee my prosperity and riches."


    "And to prove her power to me, she said she would also send me a welcoming gift..."


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 Chapter 10 Technology before the Cataclysm

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen asked deeply, "A welcome gift?"Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes."


    Then he gestured towards Jia Shu and confirmed, "It''s exactly what Chief Jia mentioned earlier, ''repelling the United Front with six shots''."


    "Back when I was at my home, Miss Shuman had already told me that she would arrange for the United Front to attack."


    "She told me to be on my guard and not to get accidentally injured."


    "She also told me that this attack was designed to make me famous."


    "During the incident, members of the United Front would deliberately expose their weaknesses for me to shoot, and even deliberately walk into my bullets. Afterwards, I would be celebrated for repelling them all by myself."


    "To ensure that the Special Service Department wouldn''t steal my thunder, the members of the United Front would do everything possible to avoid getting hit by the agents of the Special Service Department."


    "So, even if there were some good opportunities for a counterattack on the scene, they would pretend not to see them."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s exaggerated yet somewhat reasonable explanation, Yan Chen''s gaze was deep, his inner thoughts inscrutable.


    Meanwhile, Jia Shu squinted his eyes, the gaze behind his glasses flickering non-stop, as if he was constantly contemplating.


    The pace on the scene was now in Qiu Tu''s hands, so seeing that the two men were silent, Qiu Tu also shut his mouth, saying nothing.


    For a time, the room fell into an eerie silence.


    As time ticked away second by second, the atmosphere in the room grew increasingly oppressive.


    Just when the tension was about to reach its peak, Jia Shu snapped back to reality. He looked at Yan Chen and, seeing no objection from him, he forced a smile and took the initiative to break the deadlock, "Qiu Tu, all you''ve said is just your side of the story. Do you have any additional details or evidence?"


    Qiu Tu had prepared thoroughly when he planned everything, so he declared confidently, "Of course, I do."


    "1. Since I knew in advance about the United Front''s attack, I was mentally prepared early on. This allowed me to react first and rush to protect Miss Shuman when the attack occurred, while the trained agents of the Special Service Department were still unresponsive, thus continuing the plan."


    "2. Knowing that the target of the United Front''s attack was neither Miss Shuman nor myself, when Agent Fang Ming arranged for me to retreat first while protecting Miss Shuman, I did not retreat. Instead, I waited on the side for an opportunity."


    "3. Because I was aware of the intended outcome of this play, and at Miss Shuman''s request, I sent a message to the Old Alley Street Public Security Office in advance, asking backup agents to come and assist¡ªactually to increase the number of eyewitnesses and magnify the impact of the incident."


    "The heads can verify these points by inquiring with Agent Fang Ming or agents from the Special Service Department and the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen gestured indifferently towards Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu bowed slightly in acknowledgment, then left the study to verify the information.


    After Jia Shu had left, only Qiu Tu and Yan Chen remained in the room. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen stared at Qiu Tu for a while, then picked up a cigarette case from the mahogany desk and pulled out a cigarette.


    He put the cigarette in his mouth and then fished out a matchbox.


    "Scratch!" Accompanied by the sound of the match striking, a flame burst forth in the dim study.


    Yan Chen brought the flame close, lit the cigarette, then shook out the matchstick and tossed it into the ashtray.


    Qiu Tu watched silently the entire time, not speaking.


    Having lit his cigarette, Yan Chen smoked and played with the matchbox, ''clack clack,'' shaking it quietly. After doing this for a while, he exhaled twin dragons of smoke from his nose and began to speak distantly,


    "Qin Shuman could not possibly be an informant. You have been looking for the wrong excuse from the very beginning."


    Perhaps because of the certainty in Yan Chen''s words, for a moment, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat suddenly accelerated, and he felt an ominous premonition.


    Yan Chen didn''t look at Qiu Tu. He silently smoked his cigarette and said slowly, "In your communication, you said she had several suspicious points."


    "For example, she just arrived in Xinjie City, yet she seems to know Xinjie City very well."


    "For instance, she clearly comes from the lower class, yet her skin is smooth, fair, and without a single scar or callus."


    "Another thing is, with Xinjie City being so large and chaotic, why such a beauty just happened to be found by me...."


    As he spoke, Yan Chen looked profoundly at Qiu Tu, "The doubts you''ve found do seem very reasonable."


    "But you''ve overlooked the most important point."


    "That is... the origin story of Qin Shuman I told you is fake...."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s pupils slightly contracted, a bolt of shock flashing through his mind!


    Yan Chen lowered his head and took a drag of his cigarette, continuing, "Qin Shuman was not a Disaster Zone refugee I found while on patrol."


    "She was a ''Cloned Female Body'' presented to me by the Qin Family."


    "This technology predates the Cataclysm."


    Surrounded by swirling smoke, his voice seemed even more ethereal, "Humans are a very resilient species. The great Cataclysm of 40 years ago nearly wiped out humanity, but still, some people stubbornly survived."


    "Among these people, the majority are ordinary folks, but a small portion are national leaders, wealthy businessmen with control over various means of production, and scientists with core technologies."


    "In the first few years of the Cataclysm, they laid low to conserve their strength."


    "But after the Cataclysm ended, they burst forth from the soil, using their core competitive advantages to grow and multiply through blood and interests in the various Cataclysm-affected cities, eventually forming clans and interest groups of various sizes."


    "And the Qin Family... is one of them."


    "The technology they possess is ''Cloned Female Bodies''."


    At this point, Yan Chen paused, looking at Qiu Tu dispassionately,


    "Over the years, the Sanctuary has been expanding into the Disaster Zones, establishing a number of Planning Areas, which inevitably leads to conflicts with the existing powers in those Disaster Zones."


    "Faced with these established powers, the Sanctuary typically uses two methods to resolve issues."


    "One is cooperation. Collaborate with clans and interest groups willing to side with the Sanctuary by conceding some positions in the Governing Hall and the Investigation Bureau, absorbing them to jointly govern the Planning Areas."


    "Like Fang Ming, he became a First Level Detective in a crucial department at such a young age with no remarkable accomplishments¡ª simply because his family elders hold high positions in the Investigation Bureau."


    "The other is suppression. Resolutely suppress, without mercy, the Underground organizations, Dark forces, and some clans and interest groups that are unwilling to cooperate."


    "The United Front, those disgusting vermin, are merely the remnants who luckily escaped our crackdown."


    "As for how to distinguish which clans and interest groups are willing to cooperate, and which are not...."


    As he spoke, Yan Chen exhaled his last puff of smoke, snuffing out the glowing cigarette butt in the ashtray, "That is determined by the Investigation Bureau Chiefs of each Planning Area."


    After finishing, he looked deeply at Qiu Tu and summed up, "So, the Qin Family dare not offend me."


    "Not just offend¡ª they have even been secretly pledging allegiance to me since four years ago."


    "And Qin Shuman was a Cloned Female Body specifically found and cultivated to my tastes by them...."


    "Because the technology isn''t perfect, so her lifespan isn''t long, just a few short years."


    "You mean... such a woman with that identity was a spy planted beside me by City Hall? And today, she even helped you make a name for yourself?"


    In the end, Yan Chen crossed his hands and rested his chin on them, looking at Qiu Tu with interest....

 Chapter 11 Reversing the Situation!

    At this moment, watching Yan Chen''s cat-and-mouse game expression and listening to his explanations that were detailed to the point of mockery, Qiu Tu felt like cursing.He finally understood why "Crisis Intuition" in its second hint reminded him, "Your lies still have some loopholes that won''t hold up to scrutiny."


    This wasn''t "some loopholes"; this was nothing but holes!


    Who could have imagined that everyone treated Yan Chen as a "brother," yet he played mind games with his "brothers," going so far as to fabricate the background of his own mistress!


    However, he also knew that now was not the time for regret or frustration.


    After all, regret and frustration wouldn''t help the situation at all and might even cut off his last avenue of escape.


    So he had to calm down and find a way to break the game!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu slowly composed his emotions, and his mind began to operate at high speed.


    At this time, his "work" experience from many years in a fraud group finally came into play...


    During those years "working" in a fraud group, Qiu Tu received comprehensive scam training, which included not only how to see through a person''s weaknesses but also...how to continue the scam after being exposed.


    Therefore, he quickly assembled the clues he knew and adjusted his plan.


    Soon, he had a plan in mind...


    Possibly because he had a plan, he no longer panicked. So the next second, Qiu Tu naturally began his second performance.


    He didn''t make any defense, but instead showed a timely expression of confusion and then asked Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief... are you sure that everything you just said is true?"


    "There''s something wrong with this matter."


    "The Qin Shuman you''re talking about and the Qin Shuman I''ve been in contact with don''t match up at all..."


    ''The one who lies will explain when someone points out the loopholes. The one who tells the truth will first suspect that there is something wrong with the other party.''


    Then, Qiu Tu accurately pointed out the flaws in Yan Chen''s previous statements.


    He said, "Additionally, Bureau Chief, even if everything you say is true, it doesn''t clear Qin Shuman of suspicion."


    "After all, Qin Shuman was cloned and raised by the Qin Family the entire time. No one knows what they taught her during her upbringing."


    "The Qin Family might have taught her to be forever loyal to you, or they might have instructed her to gather secrets around you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s rebuttal, Yan Chen''s smile slowly faded, and his face became expressionless.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s heart settled a bit, and he continued to point out the problems in Yan Chen''s logic chain,


    "Furthermore, you said the Qin Family doesn''t dare to offend you because you hold the life and death of the Qin Family."


    "Allow your subordinate to make a bold assumption. If you truly can control the life and death of the Qin Family, wouldn''t you also be able to easily handle the other clans and organizations of Xinjie City?"


    "As the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, you can easily handle the various clans and organizations of the entire city, so can the Bureau Chiefs of other cities also easily handle their city''s clans and organizations?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused and then quietly asked, "Then... what''s the point of Sanctuaries establishing City Halls in various cities? Why not just let the Investigation Bureau be in charge of all the city''s big and small matters....?"


    Upon hearing Qiu''s words, Yan Chen did not speak for a moment, and the atmosphere in the study room suddenly became silent....


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew he had made the right bet.


    He didn''t show it on his face, but inwardly he was already unceasingly cursing Yan Chen''s ancestors.


    This old bastard was indeed trying to deceive him!


    No wonder he felt something was off when he was listening: if the Investigation Bureaus of each city were really that powerful, wouldn''t that render the Municipal Committees powerless?


    How could the Sanctuaries and Municipal Committees possibly allow such a powerful department to exist!


    This simply didn''t make sense!


    Of course, Qiu Tu didn''t think that Yan Chen would lie about such a matter, he surmised that Yan Chen was most likely concealing part of the truth:


    For instance, the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau might indeed be able to "determine" whether a clan or organization was suitable for cooperation, but only had the "right to investigate," not the "decision-making power."


    Such a significant affair is likely to be reported to City Hall, where the Municipal Committee would discuss and decide.


    Therefore, even if the Investigation Bureau Chief concludes through investigation that a certain Clan is not suitable for cooperation, City Hall could disregard this investigation, send it back, and ask the Investigation Bureau to re-investigate.


    This is in line with Qiu Tu''s understanding of the power structure in the Planning Area.


    Just now, Yan Chen obviously played a game of words, deceiving Qiu Tu momentarily.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu felt even more confident. He was just about to "press his advantage" when suddenly, at that moment, the study door was flung open from the outside.


    Qiu Tu looked toward the door and saw Jia Shu walk in.


    Upon entering the study, he closed the door behind him, then walked slowly over to Yan Chen, bent down, and whispered a few sentences in Yan Chen''s ear.


    The study was very quiet, so even though Jia Shu''s voice was soft, Qiu Tu still vaguely heard parts of the key conversation, such as,


    "At the time of the attack, Qiu Tu was indeed the first to react."


    "Fang Ming did indeed command Qiu Tu to protect Qin Shuman and evacuate, but Qiu Tu didn''t evacuate."


    "The Old Alley Street Public Security Office did indeed receive a distress call from Qiu Tu right at the start of the shootout."


    Qiu Tu looked calmly at Yan Chen and Jia Shu, feeling even more settled, and then... he timely presented the most heavyweight piece of evidence.


    "Bureau Chief, perhaps you think that everything I''ve said is just empty talk, which is why you don''t trust me. But... in fact, I have evidence."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu took out the cloth bag that Ah-Tai had brought from within his coat.


    He stepped forward, placed the cloth bag on the mahogany desk, and then respectfully retreated to his original place.


    Jia Shu glanced at Yan Chen, and upon receiving an affirmative look, he walked to the desk, reached out to pick up the cloth bag, and opened it to take a look.


    At the first glance at the items inside, he was unconcerned, but at the second, his pupils contracted sharply, and with a bit of disbelief, he reached in and fiddled in the bag.


    After a moment, he quickly walked to Yan Chen''s side and said in a low but rapid voice, "Bureau Chief, take a look."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen looked up at the cloth bag.


    At that instant, Qiu Tu clearly saw Yan Chen''s figure pause for a moment.


    The next second, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with a grave expression and asked in a deep voice, "Do you know what this is?"


    Qiu Tu first nodded, then shook his head, "I only know a little."


    "Miss Shuman only told me this thing could change my fate, could give me incredible power." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But she didn''t elaborate. She only said that as long as I continued to work for her, she would give me even more... "


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen took the cloth bag, tilted it towards the mahogany desk.


    "Clang~" "Clang~"


    The first things to fall out were several Silver Yuan, followed by a few Little Goldfish.


    It wasn''t until the very end that a half-translucent, sea-blue stone, twinkling with faint light, fell onto the desk with a "clang."


    It was, unmistakably... Cataclysmic Material: Aurora Stone.


    Seeing this precious material obtained from Golden Finger fall onto the table, Qiu Tu felt no regret.


    On the contrary, he watched with composure as a flash of greed passed through Yan Chen''s eyes and recalled that phrase once more:


    Greed is the most powerful weapon in the world...


    Yan Chen was about to fall for it...


    ----


    The performance during the new book period is very important, so I kindly ask everyone to follow along every day, cast recommendation and Monthly Tickets, thank you everyone!


    Updates of 2-3 chapters daily, 6000-7000 words. Updated at 12 noon and midnight.

 Chapter 12 Promotion! Transfer!

    In fact, from the moment he obtained the "Aurora Stone," Qiu Tu had considered how to handle this cataclysm material.Despite just reading the introduction, he knew it was very valuable. But... no matter how valuable, Qiu Tu could not use it now.


    Looking at the introduction of the Aurora Stone, with phrases like "one of the cataclysm materials," "used in potion formulations," "for creating cataclysmic items"¡ªwere these things that Qiu Tu could currently achieve?


    It simply wasn''t realistic.


    For someone with Qiu Tu''s carefree character, something that wasn''t immediately useful was just waste.


    And coincidentally, this "waste" was also of high value, so naturally, Qiu Tu considered using it as "bait"...


    The person he intended to fish for, of course, was Yan Chen, who was now in control of Qiu Tu''s fate...


    Offering the Aurora Stone to Yan Chen would make it easier to gain his trust.


    After all, with Qiu Tu''s current status, it was utterly impossible for him to have obtained an Aurora Stone. Where could it have come from then?


    Looking into the people he could have come into contact with these past few days, the only suspect could be the unidentified Qin Shuman.


    This way, Qin Shuman would completely cement the identity that Qiu Tu had concocted for her, and Qiu Tu''s crisis would be neatly resolved.


    Secondly, one must be willing to sacrifice something small to gain something greater.


    During his previous life "working" within a fraud syndicate, Qiu Tu had seen plenty of such fishing tactics.


    First, throw out some sweeteners, arouse the target''s greed, then step by step lure the person deeper into the abyss.


    Now, the same strategy worked on Yan Chen.


    As long as he coveted the Aurora Stone, desiring more of them or wanting to unearth the channels where they could be obtained, he would need to maintain Qiu Tu as a connection...


    When that time came, Qiu Tu would slowly reel him in, allowing him to taste the sweetness but never letting him be fully satisfied, leading him step by step into the trap...


    And during this process, Qiu Tu would also continue to grow until he completely turned the tables...


    While Qiu Tu was pondering over this, Yan Chen, who had finished examining the Aurora Stone, also spoke up.


    His expression had clearly softened a lot, and he wasn''t so stern anymore.


    He fondled the Aurora Stone in his hand, his voice hoarse as he said, "Qiu Tu. Don''t blame me for not trusting you enough before..."


    "After all, Shuman is my closest confidante, it''s hard for me to believe that she would betray me without seeing irrefutable evidence..."


    Qiu Tu nodded, expressing understanding, his expression open and honest.


    Yan Chen fell silent for a while upon seeing this. After a moment, he turned his gaze to Qiu Tu, slightly puzzled, and asked,


    "However, even though I now believe what you have told me, there''s still something I don''t quite understand."


    Qiu Tu, "Please speak, Bureau Chief."


    Yan Chen neatly aligned the Silver Yuan, Little Goldfish, and the Aurora Stone on the table, then gestured with his hand, "The conditions offered by Qin Shuman were quite generous, why didn''t you accept them, and instead chose to report to me?"


    "Moreover, from where did you get the courage to suspect and investigate my closest confidante? Were you not afraid I would secretly execute you to keep it quiet?"


    Before his words fell, a trace of invisible killing intent quietly spread out.


    But Qiu Tu was not frightened in the least.


    ''Intimidate someone else... If he wanted to kill me, he would have done it long ago. Keeping me now means he''s interested...''


    Thinking this, he looked straight at Yan Chen, his face serious as he replied, "Bureau Chief... because I desperately want to make progress!"


    "Even though I am already a Second-Class Investigator, I am not satisfied!"


    "I want to be a First Level Detective, an Investigator Chief, an Office Head, or even a Deputy Director!"


    "Also, I don''t want to be confined to departments like the Administrative Office anymore, I want to transfer to the Special Service Department, the Political Department, the Security Section, or even... I''d be willing to work at a grassroots Public Security Office!"


    "So, I had to take a gamble!"


    "Otherwise, I would be filled with regret!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu beside Yan Chen adjusted the gold-framed glasses on the bridge of his nose and responded with a half-smile, "Agent Qiu is quite frank indeed."


    "I thought you were going to say it was all because of your loyalty to the Bureau Chief."


    Qiu Tu followed with a laugh, "That would have been too hypocritical."


    Listening to their conversation, Yan Chen quietly contemplated while fiddling with the Aurora Stone.


    After a moment, he raised his eyes to look at Qiu Tu and said expressionlessly, "Since you have such ambition, I am willing to give you an opportunity."


    "Do you not want to advance? Then I will let you advance."


    "Starting today, you will be transferred to work in the Political Department, promoted to the position of First Level Detective."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted slightly.


    While he had anticipated that Yan Chen would offer him something sweet, he had not expected it to be so substantial...


    It seemed that his rank was only raised by one level, but being transferred from the weaker Administrative Office to the most powerful Political Department meant his actual power had increased by more than tenfold.


    Moreover... don''t think that there''s only a small difference between a First Level Detective and a Second-Class Investigator; a First Level Detective is already qualified to lead a team, to be a team captain.


    The captain of the Political Department...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take a sharp breath.


    Yan Chen seemed to have given a bit too much, how did it feel like he was the one being hooked? S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this way, he couldn''t help but glance at Jia Shu, the head of the Political Department, but at that moment, Jia Shu''s expression remained unchanged, his smile even brighter than before.


    Seeing Jia Shu''s reaction, Qiu Tu had an ominous premonition. His past life experience with the fraud group taught him:


    Pies don''t just fall from the sky for no reason. If a pie does fall, it''s likely laced with a potion¡ªwhen you are coveting someone else''s pie, they may well be coveting your behind...


    Indeed, after handing Qiu Tu such a big pie, Yan Chen spoke up.


    He looked at Qiu Tu with an unfazed demeanor and slowly said, "But, this position is not given to you for nothing. You have to do something for me."


    Qiu Tu thought to himself: Here it comes, here it comes, it''s happening.


    He rallied his full attention, eager to know what Yan Chen intended to have him do.


    Then he heard Yan Chen say, "Since Qin Shuman is a thorn planted by the City Hall by my side, it seems the Qin Family must have already betrayed me."


    "So... go and pluck it out for me."


    "Within 7 days, I want to see evidence sufficient to destroy the Qin Family laid out on my desk."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    At that moment, upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, the only thought in Qiu Tu''s mind was: What? Me?


    He felt like the flabbergasted Bumbler in Journey to the West.


    What is the Qin Family? One of the top three Major Clans in Xinjie City! Their family business spans across numerous domains, from illegal medical practices to underground brothels, from casinos to usury¡ªall in the gray area.


    Well before Xinjie City was designated as a Planning Area, the Qin Family was already one of the dominant forces, not only nurturing over a thousand underlings but also armed to the teeth with gunmen and well-trained private soldiers...


    What kind of evidence could possibly bring down such high-level forces in the nascent, stabilizing Xinjie City?


    Murder? Arson?


    Stop kidding... In this Cataclysm-ridden chaos, which clan hasn''t killed some people? Which hasn''t lit a few fires for entertainment?


    How could they possibly be brought down!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt utterly bewildered.


    Meanwhile, Jia Shu, who had been standing beside Yan Chen, adjusted his gold-framed glasses and began to speak...

 Chapter 13 The Lions Mouth Opens Wide

    He looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile and said, "Qiu Tu, don''t worry too much about this mission.""You are now a part of our Political Department, and we will certainly not let you fight this battle alone. We will try our best to create some conditions for you and offer some support."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu also came back to reality.


    Right... with such a powerful force as the Qin Family, how could one possibly bring them down alone?


    Then... he heard Jia Shu say with a chuckle, "When the time comes, I will have the Bureau Chief arrange for Miss Shuman to return home for a visit."


    "As the head of her security team, you will accompany her to stay with the Qin Family, and then start your investigation."


    "With Miss Shuman''s trust and high regard for you, I believe you can dig out the secrets of the Qin Family smoothly and then complete the mission."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, a jolt went through Qiu Tu''s heart. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, Jia Shu continued, "Moreover, I can point out a direction for your investigation."


    "You reported to the Bureau Chief earlier that you suspected Miss Shuman was one of the City Hall''s people, but this suspicion has no evidence."


    "However, Miss Shuman''s connection with the United Front is something you''ve witnessed yourself."


    "So... you might have guessed Miss Shuman''s camp wrong."


    "Perhaps she and the Qin Family are not City Hall people but supporters of an anti-government organization!" By the end, Jia Shu''s gaunt face revealed a cruel smile, the transparent lenses of his glasses flashing cold light.


    "Investigate in this direction, and you won''t go wrong!"


    At that moment, Qiu Tu felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over him, leaving him thoroughly chilled.


    Cruel! Too cruel!


    This move of going with the flow had blocked all his retreats and excuses!


    He had "personally witnessed" Qin Shuman "bribing" him and had "personally witnessed" Qin Shuman commanding the United Front to help him gain fame and fortune. Whether Qin Shuman and the Qin Family were City Hall people was debatable, but they definitely had ties with the United Front!


    And since Qin Shuman did not avoid him when colluding with the United Front, he should be able to easily find the evidence of collusion between the Qin Family and the United Front upon investigation!


    While murder and arson might not bring down the Qin Family, collusion with the anti-government armed forces¡ªa grave crime¡ªwould surely suffice!


    So... he either had to produce irrefutable evidence of the Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front, withstand the Qin Family''s retaliation, destroy the entire Qin Family and completely prove himself.


    Or... the lies would fall apart by themselves.


    This was a pincer tactic that left no way out.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s emotions rapidly withdrew, and he forced himself to calm down.


    Perhaps his mindset had shifted, but he felt that the previously bright study seemed much darker again.


    Darkness closed in from all directions, and only the circle of pale yellow light cast by the lamp on the mahogany desk held its ground, struggling against the gloom.


    Yan Chen and Jia Shu, either seated or standing, watched him from within the darkness, one expressionless, the other with a smile that was not quite a smile, making his scalp tingle...


    While suppressing the restlessness in his heart, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, swiftly considering his options.


    Time ticked by, second by second...


    After a moment, he finally came to a decision...


    He intentionally furrowed his brows and said, "Officer, I think the investigative direction you''ve pointed out is absolutely correct."


    "But... isn''t it too hasty?"


    "Miss Shuman just bought me off today, and immediately after that, the Bureau Chief is arranging her to go back to the Qin Family for a visit. I''ve also been promoted and am accompanying her back to the Qin Family."


    "Such an obvious arrangement, practically writing ''conspiracy'' on our faces¡ªthe Qin Family will surely see through it."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with interest, "So your suggestion is...?"


    Qiu Tu spoke seriously, "I think we shouldn''t have the Bureau Chief arrange her to visit home, but rather she should take the initiative to ask for it!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the eyes behind Jia Shu''s glasses flickered slightly as if he were pondering.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t give him time to think and directly voiced his own thoughts.


    He pointed at the Aurora Stone on the table and said, "Although I don''t know the purpose of this stone, seeing how Miss Shuman, the Bureau Chief, and you, sir, treat it with such solemnity, it must be a treasure that interests everyone."


    "I hope the department can provide me with more treasures like this and inform me of the relevant intelligence."


    "Afterwards, I will take these treasures and intelligence to meet Miss Shuman, telling her I have made significant gains and want to report to her and have her arrange my next move."


    "But it''s impossible to discuss such secretive matters in the Bureau Chief''s villa, so I will suggest that she take the initiative to ask the Bureau Chief to return home to visit relatives. The reason will be that she was frightened in this attack."


    "That way, everything will be completely logical, and will not only not arouse Miss Shuman''s and the Qin Family''s suspicions, but Miss Shuman and the Qin Family will even trust me more because I brought so many Letters of Challenge."


    "I can also investigate the evidence of the Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front more quickly."


    As Qiu Tu finished speaking, the room fell into silence.


    Yan Chen and Jia Shu both fell silent...


    Did Qiu Tu''s words make sense? They did.


    Was the plan more refined? Indeed, it was.


    But... both of them just felt that something wasn''t quite right.


    Why should the Cataclysm Materials that were just acquired and not yet warmed up be returned, and even more be given to the other party?


    This... why does it feel like a scam?


    Could it be that Qiu Tu is planning to abscond with the "treasure"?


    After quietly contemplating for a while, Yan Chen spoke.


    He gazed deeply at Qiu Tu before saying hoarsely, "Qiu Tu, this treasure is called the Aurora Stone, and although it is not particularly valuable, it is a controlled item."


    "Even I cannot simply take it out of the department."


    "So while your plan is good, but... I still need to think it over carefully."


    After saying that, he paused, waved his hand, "For tonight, you should go back and rest."


    "Tomorrow, I will have someone send you a response."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, somewhat surprised.


    He wasn''t wrong; Qiu Tu''s plan was actually a checkmate, intending to trap him deeply and completely disorder the situation, then to look for a new way to break the game.


    He even considered, if unable to find a solution, to flee far away with the spoils of Cataclysm Materials and a beauty.


    Yet, to his surprise, he didn''t agree?


    This instantly deepened Qiu Tu''s understanding of the value of the Aurora Stone.


    ''If the Aurora Stone is truly that valuable, then Yan Chen would never be willing to give up on this lead, right?''


    ''So... can I play an even bigger game?''


    As these thoughts flowed through his mind, Qiu Tu seemed to have found the key to breaking the game...


    In this way, with the three of them each harboring their own schemes, Qiu Tu was escorted out of the study by Jia Shu.


    Once out of the study, Qiu Tu took the initiative to salute and bid farewell to Jia Shu. Jia Shu didn''t say much, only patting Qiu Tu on the shoulder with a smile that was not quite a smile, saying, "Not bad, very good indeed."


    And as Qiu Tu left, he consistently felt as though there was a gaze following him, like a haunting presence behind him...


    That sensation persisted until Qiu Tu turned a corner and it finally disappeared.


    When that sensation had completely vanished, Qiu Tu slowly let out a breath of relief, and it was at this moment, he noticed the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision had also begun to change slowly...

 Chapter 14 Blue Moon

    Qiu Tu''s steps faltered slightly, but the next second, they resumed their normal pace.While continuing to walk without any outward change, he glanced toward the upper left corner of his vision.


    Similar to last time, several new prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Congratulations on successfully navigating the recent crisis, but you have also drawn Yan Chen''s attention."


    "He has developed a certain curiosity about your changes, secrets, and the lies you''ve concocted."


    "Fortunately, he is in the midst of a massive storm vortex and does not wish to invest too much energy in someone as weak as you for the time being."


    "Cherish the calm before the storm, for you have only 24 hours of rest time...."


    As the prompts ended, the hourglass slowly transformed into a treasure chest. Unlike the treasure chest that opened directly last time, this chest turned gray and had a 24-hour countdown timer on it.


    [23:59:59]


    Qiu Tu: ....


    The good news: There was no new countdown, meaning he was at least safe for the night.


    The bad news: The reward would have to wait 24 hours, and this time, he made it through not because Yan Chen trusted him, but because he had caught Yan Chen''s interest.


    Plainly speaking, his lies did not fool Yan Chen, but the Aurora Stone had successfully piqued Yan Chen''s greed, preventing him from making a move against him.


    Although he had anticipated this possibility during the last gamble, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a bit disappointed: Having such a clever boss takes away the sense of achievement, doesn''t it?


    He still preferred the simple mode and didn''t enjoy walking a tightrope like this.


    If only he could draw a "Difficulty Reduction" Golden Finger next time....


    While envisioning such future possibilities in his heart, Qiu Tu walked outside.


    Stepping out of the villa, the moonlight was like water, draping the tranquil night in a mysterious and enchanting blue veil.


    After the Cataclysm, the moon turned azure blue because the Earth''s atmosphere was filled with tiny particles slightly larger than 0.7 micrometers (the size of red waves). These fine particles scattered the red light, hence the blue moon seen by those below the surface.


    ''What a severely polluted world....'' Qiu Tu sighed internally as he strode through the garden.


    In the garden, various flowers were faintly visible under the Blue Moon, emitting a light fragrance as they swayed gently in the evening breeze, like whispering sprites. However, Qiu Tu, preoccupied with his thoughts, had no interest in admiring them.


    Leaving the garden and reaching the guard post, Qiu Tu saw two familiar figures crouching by the road¡ªAh-Tai and Eagle.


    Shoulder to shoulder, they both had their hands crossed, squatting like oversized penguins by the roadside. Ah-Tai had a wild grass in his mouth, chewing it as he looked up, while Eagle was vigilantly scanning the surroundings out of the corner of his eye.


    Perhaps because the postures and actions of both were so bizarre, the detective from the Security Section at the guard post was staring at them intently. They probably would have been driven away if not for their detective uniforms.


    Eagle was the first to notice Qiu Tu''s emergence. He gently nudged Ah-Tai and hurriedly stood up to greet him, "Brother Tu."


    Ah-Tai, on the other hand, was much more upbeat. Seeing Qiu Tu, he spat the wild grass from his mouth with a "tui~" and shouted as he ran over, "Bro! You''re out!"


    Watching the two figures¡ªone tall, one short¡ªcharging towards him, Qiu Tu was initially taken aback, then a warm surge filled his heart....


    .....


    Meanwhile, in Yan Chen''s study.


    The lighting was as dim as ever, and Yan Chen was still obscured in the darkness.


    "Have you checked all the people around him?"


    Sitting opposite him, Jia Shu smiled and said, "Checked. They''re all nothing but riffraff and hooligans. They couldn''t possibly have had access to Cataclysm Materials."


    "He used your name to place these people as temporary detectives in the grassroots Public Security Office, so it wasn''t hard to check, and the accuracy of the information is quite reliable."


    Yan Chen gave a sardonic laugh, his voice hoarse as he said, "He sure has a sense of loyalty."


    Having made this remark, Yan Chen fell silent, and the room slowly quieted down.


    After a while, Yan Chen spoke again, "So, the only way he could have come into contact with an Aurora Stone is through the Qin Family?"


    Jia Shu nodded, "In theory, that''s how it should be. But... my intuition tells me it''s not."


    Yan Chen also shook his head, "I also feel it''s not."


    He toyed with the Aurora Stone in his hand, "That kid thinks he can easily fool everyone with a story as bizarre as a fantasy. He''s deluding himself."


    "He definitely has a secret, a big one at that."


    "But I don''t have time to pay attention to such a minor character right now."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Shu tentatively asked, "Then... should I just take him into custody?"


    "You should know my methods, no one can last a night, can they?" He made a gesture of torture.


    Yan Chen hesitated for a second but ultimately shook his head,


    "No need. If he was able to obtain an Aurora Stone, there must be someone behind him."


    "Lately, City Hall has been keeping a close eye on me; I don''t want to stir up unnecessary trouble."


    As he spoke, he paused, then continued, "Let him and the Qin Family dog eat dog."


    "He wants to bring the ''Letter of Challenge'' to the Qin Family, doesn''t he? Then give it to him."


    "Cataclysm Materials are controlled resources; we can''t give those to him."


    "But didn''t we arrest a Pharmacist selling contraband potions on Xiafang Street today?"


    As he spoke, Yan Chen put the Aurora Stone, the gold bars, and Silver Yuan back into the cloth bag and tossed it to Jia Shu,


    "Arrange for someone to bring out that Pharmacist tomorrow and send him over with these things."


    "A Pharmacist capable of making Cataclysmic Potions is worth far more than some Cataclysm Resources."


    "I want to see how he''s going to play this act..."


    .....


    [12:09:57 (Treasure Chest)]


    Early the next morning, Qiu Tu was awoken by a "thud thud thud" of knocking at his door.


    He yawned as he climbed out of bed, then kicked aside Ah-Tai and Eagle, who were sprawled beside him haphazardly.


    As someone who had lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu hadn''t had close friends for a long while. Plus, having just gotten through a crisis the day before, he needed an outlet. So he had pulled the two of them into a night of drinking until late.


    All three of them drank too much, so they simply decided to sleep over at Qiu Tu''s place.


    After shoving the two aside, Qiu Tu yawned and went to open the door.


    As the door opened, there stood a detective in uniform.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he snapped to attention with a "thwack!" and saluted, "Good morning, sir!"


    Qiu Tu reflexively returned the salute, then belatedly asked, "You are...?"


    The detective at the door answered formally, "Sir, I am Li Ke, a Third-Level Detective from the Administrative Office, sent by our superior to deliver your new uniform and epaulets."


    With that, he waved his hand behind him, and suddenly a temporary detective appeared beside him, holding a set of black detective''s uniforms.


    Black was the exclusive color of the Political Department, representing the official status of a [Secret Police].


    On the uniform lay a pair of epaulets, studded with three gold stars, signifying the rank of a First Level Detective.


    Though Qiu Tu had already received Yan Chen''s promise the previous night, when all of it was laid out before him, his heartbeat still unavoidably quickened.


    And just then, "Brother Tu, what''s going on?" came Ah-Tai''s inquiring voice from behind him, "Who''s here?"


    But in the next second, the inquiry turned into an exclamation, "Holy shit! A First Level Detective from the Political Department?"


    Turning around, Qiu Tu saw Ah-Tai and Eagle standing agape at the doorway.....

 Chapter 15 Hold Ones Head High

    Both of them were obviously awakened by the noise at the door, so at the moment, their hair was a mess like an uncombed chicken''s nest, and they were only wearing big underwear, completely disheveled.But the detective outside the door was not at all surprised. In this world, survival itself is a difficult task, and aside from the very few powerful elites, how many people pay attention to the quality of life?


    So he reached out to take the temporary detective''s uniform and epaulets, and handed them to Qiu Tu with both hands, "Commander!"


    Once Qiu Tu had taken the uniform, the detective did not leave. He took out a slip of paper from his pocket and once again offered it respectfully to Qiu Tu with both hands.


    "Commander! This is my contact information."


    "If there''s any way you can make use of me, please feel free to command, and I will be at your disposal at any time!"


    Then, he repeated his own name, "My name is Li Ke."


    After speaking, he gave Qiu Tu a standard salute and then left promptly without any hesitation.


    Watching Li Ke''s retreating figure, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered slightly, and then a smile curved at the corner of his mouth.


    Indeed... intelligent people are everywhere.


    Yesterday, in order for Ah-Tai to fall into the Special Service Department, he had continuously tried to gain favor in Fang Ming''s presence, scheming.


    And today, having been promoted to a First Level Detective in the Political Department, someone immediately started to offer their allegiance actively.


    Indeed, a First Level Detective, particularly from a powerful department, is very much sought after.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tucked Li Ke''s note into his pocket. In the future, if a suitable opportunity arose, he would not mind giving this smart detective a chance.


    Turning back, Ah-Tai had already come over, looking around dumbfounded, hardly believing as he said, "Bro, did you really become a First Level Detective? And entered the Political Department?"


    While closing the door, Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "Yes."


    Ah-Tai yelled excitedly, "Damn, I was worried about you getting into trouble last night!"


    "That''s why I dragged Eagle to squat at the garden entrance, planning to rush in and save you if you didn''t come out!"


    "And now, not only did you have no trouble, but you also got promoted?"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu laughed, "Rush in to save me? With that little hammer of yours?"


    "Do you know how many detectives are inside, how many guns?"


    "I bet you would have been shot dead by random gunfire before you could even reach me."


    Ah-Tai scratched his head naively upon hearing this, "But I don''t care! Anyway, I was going to save you!"


    "From the moment you picked me up when I was little, my life has been yours!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered, inevitably remembering the past with Ah-Tai...


    That day, what Qiu Tu said to Fang Ming was indeed half-true, half-false. It was true that Ah-Tai had been involved with gangs and was blacklisted for resisting the military.


    But what was false... was not that Qiu Tu had been looked after by Ah-Tai''s parents, but rather that the two of them, or perhaps their group of more than a dozen people, had always depended on each other for survival.


    Qiu Tu was an orphan of chaotic times, surviving on scavenging as a child. At 6, he found the dying Ah-Tai in a pile of garbage, at 8 found Eagle, at 10 found Ah-Kun...


    In the chaos of the Cataclysm, unsure of the next day''s survival, the children banded together for warmth. Gradually, their group grew in number and eventually expanded to more than twenty people.


    Later, as they grew older, they were discovered and absorbed by local gangs, but their bonds didn''t weaken, and they still helped each other.


    Afterward, the Sanctuary listed Xinjie City as a Planning Area and the military came in early to clear out the gangs. The underground organizations were eradicated like bubbles popped.


    Some of the youths from their small group were killed, some were blacklisted, and some ran away.


    In the end, with the establishment of Xinjie City, Qiu Tu, because of his decent looks, healthy body with no criminal record, and having learned to drive in the gang, successfully became a detective and gradually brought back his brothers one by one, finding them proper arrangements...


    That''s why he and Ah-Tai shared a life-and-death friendship, that''s why Ah-Tai could so sincerely say, "Even if I get killed by stray bullets, I must save Qiu Tu..."


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked deeply at Ah-Tai, then patted his shoulder heavily.


    Subordinates like Li Ke, who cozied up for personal gain, were needed by Qiu Tu; brothers like Ah-Tai were even more necessary.


    Just as the great man had said, "If you want to achieve something, you should have as many friends as possible and as few enemies as possible." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only by uniting all possible forces can you grow stronger and create glory!


    ...


    After changing into his uniform and donning his new epaulettes, Qiu Tu received a communication from Jia Shu.


    In the communication, Jia Shu asked him to visit the Garden Villa for a task assignment.


    Qiu Tu guessed that it must be that Yan Chen had made up her mind.


    So, he explained briefly to Ah-Tai and Eagle, then went downstairs, casually bought a bun, and while eating, he boarded a city bus powered by horses heading toward Yan Chen''s villa.


    As for Ah-Tai and Eagle, the two weren''t idle either; they got ready and strutted off to their jobs at the Old Alley Street Public Security Office with a bit of swagger.


    They could become temporary detectives all because Qiu Tu once pulled Yan Chen''s rank. At first, the office valued them highly and entrusted them with important tasks.


    But later, when they found that Yan Chen apparently didn''t care about them at all and never mentioned them, the office gradually came to understand the situation.


    Thus, they were gradually marginalized and became the lowest rung in the office.


    But now it was different. Qiu Tu had been promoted to a First Level Detective in the Political Department, and his brothers would rise with the tide, strutting with renewed spirit...


    That''s why they were eager to announce this good news at the office...


    Glory in the evening, gone by morning? No such thing! In a post-apocalyptic world, if you don''t show your strength, everyone will feel bold enough to crap on you!


    You have to become stronger and tell everyone you''re strong, then others will not dare to bully you!


    [11:27:03 (Treasure Chest)]


    ....


    After transferring buses twice and walking for more than ten minutes, Qiu Tu finally arrived at the City Center Garden again.


    After such a long journey, Qiu Tu had only one thought: I really need to get a car! Otherwise, it''s just too time-consuming!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu confirmed his identity with the sentry, then stepped into the garden.


    Yan Chen indeed had a taste for living. The garden was beautiful at night, but even more so during the day.


    Neatly pruned shrubs, trimmed greenery, and sparkling fountains under the sunlight could make one temporarily forget this was a world after the Cataclysm.


    Indeed, no matter the world or era, the lives of the elite are always incomparably superior.


    "Qiu Tu?"


    As Qiu Tu was secretly reflecting, he suddenly heard Fang Ming''s voice.


    Looking up, Qiu Tu saw Fang Ming leading a team escorting a young girl out.


    The girl looked young, no more than fifteen or sixteen, with three stripes of red, yellow, and blue paint on her face. Her eyes were sharp yet slightly immature in their ferocity, like a wolf cub that might turn vicious and bite at any second.


    Qiu Tu glanced at the girl and asked curiously, "What did she do to necessitate the Special Service Department to escort her personally?"


    Fang Ming let out a sigh and said with a smile, "She''s a black market Pharmacist we caught in Xiafang Street yesterday. It seems the higher-ups are very concerned about this, they specifically asked us to escort her for interrogation."


    "We just finished the interrogation, and we''re now ready to take her away."

 Chapter 16 The Young Female Pharmacist

    "Pharmacist?" Upon hearing this title, Qiu Tu''s eyes blinked, and then his gaze fell on the girl.Perhaps because she heard the two people discussing her, the girl bared her teeth at Qiu Tu in a fierce expression.


    But unfortunately... she was too young, and with her two small canines showing, Qiu Tu only saw cuteness.


    "Xiafang Street... Xiafang Street..." After mumbling the name "Xiafang Street" twice, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered why it sounded so familiar.


    Wasn''t this the task that Yan Chen had asked him to handle yesterday, which he had turned down?


    So, this girl was the criminal he was originally supposed to take away?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a sense of fate, so he casually asked, "By the way, where is she being sent to?"


    Perhaps Qiu Tu''s question was a bit sensitive, so Fang Ming had a hard time answering it.


    Just then, in the midst of this awkward moment, Fang Ming suddenly noticed Qiu Tu''s new uniform.


    He was initially stunned, then he pointed to the new uniform on Qiu Tu and asked in surprise, "You were transferred to the Political Department?"


    Qiu Tu merely nodded lightly.


    Fang Ming glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulets, and the next second, he was even more astonished, "First Level Detective? You got promoted too?"


    Qiu Tu nodded lightly again.


    Fang Ming opened his mouth as if to say something but couldn''t find the words, and after several attempts, he just managed to utter, "Awesome."


    After understanding Qiu Tu''s new position, he didn''t beat around the bush and directly answered Qiu Tu''s question, "She will be temporarily detained at the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    The Political Department has the authority to monitor all departments, so his response to Qiu Tu''s inquiry was completely in line with regulations.


    "Old Alley Street...?" Hearing this answer, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then thoughtful.... S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Like that, the two chatted a bit more before their conversation ended with the girl''s shouting, "Are you guys leaving or not!" "You''re really unprofessional!" "Don''t criminals have rights!"


    After bidding farewell to Fang Ming, Qiu Tu entered the villa and, following the directions in Jia Shu''s message, quickly found a flight of stone steps.


    He followed the stone steps downward, and at the end was a massive oak door adorned with iron decorations, ancient and solemn.


    Qiu Tu stopped, lifted his hand to the door knocker, and rapped on the door, which soon conveyed Jia Shu''s voice from inside, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed open the door and entered, discovering a huge underground chamber.


    The walls were made of rough-cut stone; in the center stood an oak workbench marked with dried blood and knife carvings, surrounded by all kinds of blades and torture instruments.


    A girl covered in scars and showing no signs of life was bound to the oak table, while Jia Shu, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, stood next to her, with a gloved left hand and a sharp scalpel in his right, dissecting her body.


    The blade moved along the bones, flesh turned inside out, organs exposed. His movements were so precise they were nearly reverent, as if conducting a mute ceremony....


    The chandelier swung, casting faint and harsh shafts of light, dividing light and shadow into a strange geometric pattern, with a faint scent of rust and undried blood lingering in the air.


    Even someone like Qiu Tu, accustomed to grand scenes from a former life, was almost unable to withstand such a hellish setting.


    After a while, "What a pity..." arose an enigmatic sigh from Jia Shu in the chamber.


    Then, he set aside the scalpel, removed his gloves, and washed his hands in a nearby basin.


    The clear water gradually stained red, as if it were a basin of blood...


    He said faintly, "This girl''s parents were once junior managers at the City Hall; she could have had a bright future, could have gone to school with other managers'' children, played together...."


    "And then after growing up, have a sweet romance, get married, have children, and lead a plain but happy life...."


    "But during yesterday''s investigation, we discovered that her parents secretly contacted and assisted the anti-government armed forces."


    "Thus, a flower that was once vibrant simply withered away...."


    Although Jia Shu''s words seemed to carry regret, when combined with his indifferent tone and the fact that he personally tortured and executed the girl, Qiu Tu just felt a chill permeating into his heart.


    After indifferently recapping the girl''s situation, Jia Shu picked up a towel, wiped his hands, and then folded it neatly.


    Then, he walked to the wall, opened a cabinet, and took out a familiar cloth package, tossing it to Qiu Tu from across the room,


    "Did you see that pharmacist on your way here?"


    Qiu Tu paused, then nodded, "I saw her."


    A meaningful smile appeared on the corners of Jia Shu''s mouth, "The Bureau Chief agreed to your plan but made a small modification."


    "Cataclysm materials are controlled items, and we can''t just take them out to assist you with your mission. So, that black market pharmacist is for you."


    "She not only knows how to make the Cataclysmic Potion but also has black market connections. Her value vastly exceeds that of mere Cataclysm materials. Enough to satisfy the Qin Family."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a surge in his heart.


    The value of the pharmacist indeed outweighed that of the Cataclysm materials, but... it was not as convenient as the Cataclysm materials.


    With the Cataclysm materials in hand, he could just run away if things turned south.


    But a living person, a girl of fifteen or sixteen at that, would undoubtedly make it much more difficult and risky to escape with her.


    Did Yan Chen guess that he might attempt to flee and intentionally arrange this encumbrance?


    As Qiu Tu''s brain raced, he didn''t forget to keep up his act with Jia Shu, "Cataclysmic Potion? Pharmacist? What are all these?"


    Jia Shu adjusted his gold-framed glasses, speaking indifferently, "You''ll find all the answers to these questions in the material inside the cloth package. Take your time to read through it."


    "Right, remember to destroy it and keep it confidential after reading."


    Having said that, he looked deeply at Qiu Tu, and said lightly, "You wouldn''t want to know the consequences of a leak..."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    After warning Qiu Tu, Jia Shu waved his hand in dismissal, "Now, go read the material."


    "Once you are done, remember to find Qin Shuman and persuade her to return to the Qin Family."


    "The Bureau Chief''s patience is limited."


    "Yes, sir!" Hearing this, Qiu Tu stood at attention and saluted precisely.


    After saluting, Qiu Tu took the cloth package and stepped out of the underground chamber.


    What he didn''t know was that behind him, Jia Shu''s gaze followed his departing figure like a shadow, the desire hidden behind his glasses nearly spilling out from the depths of his eyes....


    [9:03:18 (Treasure Chest)]


    .....


    As he exited the basement, the fresh scent of soil and fallen leaves rushed to meet him, starkly contrasting the suffocating stench of blood from the basement.


    Qiu Tu took a deep breath of the chilly air, looked up at the overcast sky, and stepped into the mansion.


    Guided by a servant, he sat down in a reception room, ready to inspect the intelligence on supernatural powers provided by Jia Shu.


    This information would be crucial for his plans moving forward...

 Chapter 17 Cataclysm Awakening

    Sitting down on the sofa, Qiu Tu opened the cloth bag.The first thing that caught his eye was a document so thin it only had two pages.


    He set the document aside and checked the other items in the cloth bag.


    One Aurora Stone, three Little Goldfish, and twelve Silver Yuan. These were all things Qiu Tu had given to Yan Chen yesterday, and now they were returned to their original owner.


    Satisfied, Qiu Tu tucked the assets that his dozen or so brothers had scraped together into his bosom, and then he picked up the document he had placed aside to start reading.


    The document was brief and rudimentary at best, but it was enough for Qiu Tu to glimpse a corner of the supernatural powers of this world...


    However, the more he read through the document, the deeper his frown became, until at last he put the document down with a face so grave it seemed water could drip from it.


    "If this document is true, then I''ve encountered the worst possible scenario..." he thought.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also recalled the contents of the document:


    According to the records in the document, the thirty years following the Cataclysm had transformed the entire world beyond recognition. A weird and mysterious force had quietly awakened, reshaping the veins of the world and the forms of life. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Among them, what was most hair-raising was the unusual mutations starting to occur among the creatures of the natural world:


    For instance, the English ivy inexplicably began to swell and twist, its thickness rivaling the water pipes of the abandoned cities;


    The common weeds by the roadside seemed normal in daylight, but under the moonlight they became as sharp as knives, radiating a chilling edge;


    The ants, so small as to be unnoticed by most, had now grown as large as hounds of the night, wandering through the ruins and emitting deep, nightmarish growls...


    At that time, humanity was struggling for survival and had no time to take heed of these bizarre life phenomena.


    It was not until 15 years ago, when the first Sanctuary was erected and the elite of humanity gradually gathered there and began to venture into the outside world, that they were shocked to find the world had fallen into an even more bizarre state.


    The mutated animals and plants not only saw significant enhancements in strength, speed, intelligence, and aggressiveness, but some individuals even acquired inconceivable abilities...


    Humans speculated that all of this originated from the unprecedented Cataclysm, and thus the phenomenon was dubbed "Cataclysm Awakening."


    Yet, what was utterly puzzling was that the entire world''s biological community had undergone the Cataclysm Awakening, but humans alone did not show any change.


    Thus, two hypotheses gradually emerged among humans regarding this phenomenon.


    One was that humans might also be awakening, but due to the long life cycle and weak reproduction abilities, it would take several more generations before naturally born humans with mysterious powers would emerge.


    The other was that humans were already at a high level of life and the Cataclysm could not fully awaken them. Thus, humans had to actively steal the mutated powers from other creatures to truly realize their own awakening.


    These two hypotheses caused a continuous debate during the early days of the Sanctuary.


    That debate was temporarily put to rest 13 years ago when a Pharmacist accidentally created a Cataclysmic Potion and successfully gave the test subject some bizarre power.


    Accompanying the birth of the Cataclysmic Potion, the value of the Cataclysm Materials from various mutated creatures began to soar, and professions such as Pharmacists started to rise rapidly...


    If the document had only recorded up to here, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows might not have been so tightly knit.


    What truly troubled him was the latter half of the document.


    According to the records, humans couldn''t attain mysterious powers with a 100% success rate after using the Cataclysmic Potion. On the contrary, the failure rate was over 80%.


    And once it failed, those who took the potion would go through irreversible catastrophic mutations, turning into monsters with astounding destructive powers but no spiritual wisdom.


    Even for the lucky few who came through, the direction of the Cataclysm Awakening was not fixed but varied from person to person.


    This meant that apart from the moment of awakening, no one could predict how far they''d venture on an unknown path....


    "Damn it.... I originally thought I could change my fate with supernatural power."


    "But not only is the success rate low, the supernatural powers in this world are also of a peculiar kind."


    "Who knows if such powers could have any side effects?"


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu took a match out of his pocket.


    "Scratch!" Accompanied by the sound of the match striking, a faint flame ignited the two thin sheets of information.


    Watching the information slowly burn to ashes in the dancing flames, Qiu Tu also fell into silent contemplation....


    "The path of resolving crises with supernatural powers is temporarily blocked."


    "Yan Chen might possess some strange supernatural power, and running away without a plan is tantamount to suicide...."


    "So, it looks like I have to make a trip to the Qin Family after all..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s eyes grew somber,


    "However.... this might also be a good opportunity to interrogate that young pharmacist."


    "Perhaps.... the information obtained from her might offer some unique insights?"


    A moment later, the documents had burned completely. Qiu Tu stomped out the last ember and glanced at the Treasure Chest''s timer in the upper left corner, which showed just over 8 hours remaining. Then he got up to look for Qin Shuman....


    He did not have much time left....


    [8:27:39 (Treasure Chest)]


    ....


    Following the maid, Qiu Tu ascended two winding staircases and turned down two dim corridors before arriving at the door to Qin Shuman''s boudoir.


    At the door to Qin Shuman''s boudoir, the maid took the initiative to step forward and tapped lightly on the door.


    The next second, a voice as pleasing as a nightingale''s sang from inside, "Come in."


    Pushing open the door, they entered to see Qin Shuman in a pink cheongsam with slits, seated by the window. While sipping tea, she gazed out melancholically, resembling a canary yearning for freedom.


    "Miss Shuman, Agent Qiu is looking for you." The maid courteously bowed towards Qin Shuman''s back and spoke softly.


    Upon hearing the maid''s words, Qin Shuman quickly set down her tea cup, turned around with a look of joy that she could not hide, and exclaimed, "Qiu... Agent Qiu, you''ve come?"


    As there was someone else present, Qiu Tu did not behave too affectionately. He just smiled and nodded, "Yes, Miss Shuman, I have something important to discuss with you."


    After speaking, he gave Qin Shuman a meaningful look.


    Qin Shuman understood immediately. She elegantly stood up and then demurely said to the maid at the door, "You may leave us. I want to chat privately with Agent Qiu for a moment."


    "Yes, Miss Shuman," the maid replied, curtsying lightly before she turned and left the room. But after reaching the doorway, she intentionally left the door slightly ajar.


    Qiu Tu glanced back but didn''t comment. He gestured to Qin Shuman, and only then did he walk over to her side....


    Approaching Qin Shuman, the faint, cherry blossom-like graceful fragrance unique to her wafted over to him....

 Chapter 18 Entering the Qin Family

    Inhaling that familiar body scent, Qiu Tu''s heart fluttered.He looked down, and into his sight came the swan-like slender neck and full curves of Qin Shuman''s chest.


    The cheongsam outlined her figure just perfectly, making her already graceful posture appear even more exquisite and delicate.


    It also made Qiu Tu involuntarily recall the tenderness and charm she exuded in his embrace.


    At this moment, Qin Shuman was unaware that Qiu Tu''s mind had wandered because of her allure. She reached out to grab Qiu Tu''s sleeve, her eyes swirling with a mix of nervousness and worry.


    She asked softly, "What''s the situation now?"


    "I was so scared last night, I didn''t close my eyes at all, waking up in fear every time I fell asleep."


    "I had several dreams, all about Yan Chen trying to kill us."


    By the end, her eyes had reddened again, and she said with a choked voice, "I''m really scared...."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu looked deeply into her eyes, carefully discerning her expression....


    There were no traces to be seen, truly no flaws to be found.


    But Qiu Tu''s intuition was telling him there was something off about Qin Shuman.


    It felt like the sensation of encountering one of his own kind....


    However, his Crisis Intuition had not been triggered, suggesting that Qin Shuman posed no immediate threat to him, which is why he was willing to keep cooperating with her.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu reassured her with a gentle voice, "Don''t worry, everything has been resolved."


    With that, Qiu Tu took Qin Shuman by the hand and walked to the window. The sunlight quietly bathed them both, as he softly briefed her on the events of the past two days.


    Of course... he deliberately avoided the topics of the Cloned Female Body and the Aurora Stone. He simply said that he had spotted loopholes in Yan Chen''s words with just a few comments and eventually managed to persuade Yan Chen.


    This, naturally, significantly diminished the truth of the matter.


    So, after listening to his explanation, Qin Shuman looked at him with a doubtful expression, "Is it... really that simple?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, it''s that simple."


    He said, "Now, you just need to communicate with Yan Chen according to the plan, and you''ll be able to leave here."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment but finally nodded.


    She let go of Qiu Tu''s hand, bit her lip gently, and sashaying like a willow in the breeze, slowly walked towards the bed.


    Her figure was slender, her legs long, the pink slit cheongsam slightly swaying with her steps, flashes of her pale skin blooming like a startled swan, and as she moved, the tassels of the cheongsam gently swayed, enhancing her elegant charm.


    ''This woman is seducing me....''


    For some reason, this thought popped into Qiu Tu''s mind.


    His gaze sharpened, continuing to observe Qin Shuman.


    He then saw Qin Shuman walk to the bed, bend over slightly, her full buttocks arching as she picked up the landline phone and dialed a number.


    After a moment, the phone connected. Qin Shuman straightened her back and said quietly, "Hello, Secretary Bai, this is Qin Shuman. I would like to speak with Director Yan."


    Then, Qin Shuman waited a while before Yan Chen came on the line.


    Thereupon, she parted her rosy lips and repeated the wish to return to the Qin Family as Qiu Tu had taught her.


    This was exactly what Yan Chen was willing to approve, so Yan Chen simply responded with an indifferent "Hmm" before agreeing to it.


    After hanging up the communicator, Qin Shuman, like a startled rabbit, patted her heavy chest, looking at Qiu Tu with a face full of surprise, "It really worked!"


    "He agreed, and said he would have someone take care of it."


    Just as Qiu Tu was about to nod, his worn-out communicator buzzed to life.


    When Qiu Tu picked it up, he saw the words "Secretary Bai" displayed on the screen.


    Secretary Bai is Yan Chen''s dedicated secretary, mainly responsible for arranging Yan Chen''s official activities, receiving important visitors, and coordinating work with various departments of the Investigation Bureau.


    Though a secretary by title, his position was not low, especially since he was also the head of the Administrative Office, making him Qiu Tu''s immediate superior.


    The reason Qiu Tu was able to hitch his wagon to Yan Chen''s star also had to do with his appreciation and recommendation.


    It was just unclear whether the affair between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman would affect his standing with Yan Chen.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu answered the call.


    Upon connection, Secretary Bai''s demeanor showed no change, still approachable with a hint of appreciation.


    He first briefly congratulated Qiu Tu on his promotion and transfer, then relayed Yan Chen''s orders.


    It was almost identical to what the three had discussed the night before; Qiu Tu, as Qin Shuman''s personal bodyguard, was in full charge of arranging her trip home to visit her family.


    What Qiu Tu hadn''t expected was that Yan Chen had appointed other members for this security team as well.


    Responsible for Qin Shuman''s safety was the seventh sub-team of the Special Service Department, where Fang Ming served.


    Looking after Qin Shuman''s daily needs was her personal maid and the previous informant, Cui Lan.


    It seemed that Yan Chen had wrapped up all the participants in this incident and sent them off to the Qin Family in one fell swoop.


    It looked like she intended to solve all related issues at the Qin Family in one go¡­


    With that thought, Qiu Tu had no mind to continue soothing Qin Shuman. After hanging up the call, he gently patted Qin Shuman''s hand, then turned and left her boudoir to convey the orders and make some preliminary arrangements.


    But just as he stepped out of Qin Shuman''s room, he suddenly found Cui Lan lurking outside the door with a guilty expression on her face.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, then at the marks on the door, and immediately guessed that the maid had been eavesdropping for quite a while.


    Qiu Tu gave her a deep look but chose not to expose her, instead striding away¡­


    [7:46:21 (Treasure Chest)]


    ¡­


    Time always flies when one is busy, and in the blink of an eye, several hours passed.


    That evening, the Qin Family hosted a grand banquet to welcome Qiu Tu and his party.


    Those attending the banquet included not only Qin Heng, the current family head, but also the second, third, fourth, and fifth branches of the Qin Family.


    Old Master Qin was born before the Cataclysm and had laid the foundation of the Qin Family with the inheritance from his parents. He passed away suddenly three years ago, and now the family was steered by this generation''s head, Qin Heng.


    However, his prestige was obviously not as great as Old Master Qin''s, at least that was what Qiu Tu noticed during the banquet as various branches of the Qin Family were actively trying to cozy up to him. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason might be that Qin Heng had been in poor health from a young age, constantly coughing, and he only had one daughter, so the other branches were somewhat restless¡­


    Qiu Tu silently took note of the current situation at the Qin Family. Although he had the information Eagle had gathered over the past two days, firsthand experience was always more reliable than reports¡­


    After the banquet, Qiu Tu politely declined the fervent invitation of the third branch of the Qin Family, took his team, and returned to the accommodation prepared for the Security Team, ready to meet the young Pharmacist¡­


    He arrived at the guest room where the young Pharmacist was held captive, pushed open the door, and the Special Service Detective inside instantly stood up vigilantly.


    Upon seeing it was Qiu Tu, he let out a sigh of relief and saluted, "Sir!"


    Qiu Tu nodded at him, then said, "You can leave us for now, I want to interrogate her alone tonight."

 Chapter 19 My Dad Shen Yuzhou!

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the agent flashed an "I understand" expression, then grinned, saluted, and strode out.After all, Xinjie City had only recently been established, and most people living here still retained the habits of chaotic times. There was no custom of treating criminals kindly...


    At this time, Fang Ming, who had been following behind Qiu Tu, quickly stepped forward and tugged at his sleeve.


    When Qiu Tu looked over, Fang Ming lowered his voice and warned, "Don''t do anything reckless."


    "If you need anything, just go straight to the Qin Family. They specialize in that kind of business; they''ll surely be able to arrange something for you,"


    "Otherwise, we could also go out and look around, this is the downtown area, there must be suitable places nearby."


    As he spoke, he paused, perhaps fearing Qiu Tu didn''t understand his implication, he added in a whisper, "That girl''s identity... it''s likely not that simple. Don''t be fooled."


    At this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh in disbelief. He responded in a low voice, "Do you really think I''m that desperate? I truly just have some questions I want to ask her."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reply, Fang Ming looked at him suspiciously, trying to find a trace of lying in his eyes, but what he saw was nothing but sincere.


    "Anyway... I''ve told you, just be careful," Fang Ming whispered once more, then left the room.


    Watching Fang Ming disappear from sight, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a smile, thinking the guy was quite interesting.


    Not only was he a good person, but... he also had a clear head.


    But how did he know the girl''s identity wasn''t that simple?


    Even he himself only found out after entering the Qin Family and when the countdown refreshed...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scene when he entered the Qin Family...


    As soon as Qiu Tu stepped into the Qin Family, the 24-hour frozen Countdown Treasure Chest finally began to unlock slowly, and a new Crisis Warning popped up in front of him.


    "Peaceful life is always fleeting, but crises lurk like a shadow."


    "Your immediate superior, Yan Chen, hasn''t been fooled by your lies, but he''s wary of your non-existent background and is also very interested in the origin of the Aurora Stone you possess."


    "However, recently caught in the eye of the storm, he has no time to deal with you, so he conveniently sent you to the Qin Family, wanting them to test your depth."


    "To make this test more challenging, he handed over a Pharmacist with a special identity to you and also spread a rumor that you had an old grudge with the Qin Family. You are ostensibly here to protect Qin Shuman, but in reality, you are investigating the Qin Family."


    "So the moment you set foot in the Qin Family, thousands of eyes within the family were tightly fixed on you, waiting for you to slip up..."


    "At the same time, Yan Chen is also closely monitoring your every move from behind, wanting to pry into your secrets..." S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hide your weaknesses, display your strength, only then can you survive among encircling wolves..."


    Accompanying this warning, the new Crisis Countdown also appeared: 7 days.


    Through this Crisis Warning, Qiu Tu became more clearly aware of the perilous situation he was in:


    He was pressed by the aggressively approaching Qin Family, with Yan Chen watching him like a tiger waiting to pounce, and carrying a "Criminal Girl" with an unclear identity.


    Add to that Qin Shuman with unclear allegiances and Cui Lan, the maid who was monitoring him at all times.


    Describing his current situation as "peril at every turn" couldn''t be more apt.


    That''s why, after the banquet ended, Qiu Tu sought out the Pharmacist with a special identity as soon as possible.


    After all, only by first understanding her identity could Qiu Tu adjust and carry out his next plan...


    ....


    After watching Fang Ming leave, Qiu Tu turned to close the door and then stepped into the inner room.


    There, the girl Pharmacist with a special identity had her left hand cuffed to a chair, but she was happily wolfing down food with chopsticks in her right hand.


    Possibly because the food today was decent, her cheeks were puffed out, making her resemble a hamster.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come in, she didn''t act unfamiliar; instead she enthusiastically waved her chopsticks towards him and mumbled with her mouth full, "Come and have some."


    Qiu Tu almost laughed.


    This girl seemed quite at ease, as if she didn''t know she was a suspect and Qiu Tu was the agent.


    It seemed her identity must be out of the ordinary for her to be so composed even when in detention.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "I''ve seen many suspects. There are the fearful ones, the arrogant ones, and those who scream their innocence at the sight of an agent, but I''ve never seen anyone as calm as you."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused, "I heard from Fang Ming that you have some background? Tell me about it. What kind of background is it that scared him into arranging such good treatment for you?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl nonchalantly flicked her chopsticks and said with pouted lips and conviction, "My dad is Shen Yuzhou!"


    When Qiu Tu heard the girl''s words, he was stunned for a moment.


    Then... he had a face full of bewilderment, "Who?"


    Girl: ???


    Perhaps the name of her father had always been very effective, and the girl had grown accustomed to the astonished reactions upon hearing it, so Qiu Tu''s blank look confused her as well.


    Her face turned red, and she hurriedly said, "Shen Yuzhou! Shen Yuzhou! Deputy Speaker of the Third Sanctuary''s Supreme Sanctuary Council, Shen Yuzhou!"


    Hearing the girl''s words, Qiu Tu quickly rifled through his memory, then continued to look perplexed...


    Because in his memory, there was no mention of this person''s name at all.


    After all, Xinjie City belonged to the Eighth Sanctuary, and as it was just getting started, Qiu Tu, a low-level investigator, couldn''t even recognize all the high-ranking officials of his own Sanctuary, let alone those from the distant Third Sanctuary: he''d never had the chance to hear of them...


    However, Qiu Tu finally understood why Fang Ming had a weird look on his face and why Yan Chen had pushed this girl onto him.


    Simply put, no one in Xinjie City could verify whether this girl was telling the truth or not. Neither Qiu Tu nor Yan Chen had the authority.


    If the girl''s identity was real, any rash punishment could potentially cause a conflict between two major Sanctuaries, a responsibility no one wanted to bear.


    And if the girl''s identity was false, scaring the entire Investigation Bureau into not daring to convict her over a lie, then the Bureau would lose all its credibility.


    So, this was indeed a hot potato.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also began to have doubts about the girl''s identity; after all, his "Crisis Intuition" only indicated that the girl had a special identity, but who knew if it meant that her father was Shen Yuzhou?


    Maybe she was a spy? Maybe there was something fishy about her mentor?


    The term ''special identity'' could be too broad of an interpretation...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s mind was racing, and he curiously probed, "If your dad''s position is so noble, then why do you find yourself in such a predicament?"


    "You couldn''t be lying, could you?"

 Chapter 20 The Eccentric Shen Lingshuang

    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl became even more anxious. She slapped the table and shouted, "Who are you talking about! Who are you talking about!""How could I, Shen Lingshuang, possibly lie!"


    Qiu Tu gave the girl a suspicious look. Although he wasn''t adept at interrogation, he... was good at deceiving others.


    To a master of deception like him, the girl''s expressions and actions were full of flaws.


    Firstly, the girl was habitually maintaining eye contact with him. This is a common mistake among novice liars: they mistakenly believe that it can enhance credibility.


    Secondly, the girl repeated certain pieces of information several times, such as "Shen Yuzhou" and "Who are you talking about," which actually indicated a guilty conscience.


    Lastly, yelling and exaggeratedly slamming the table were signs of lacking confidence and trying to bluff.


    So... was this girl lying?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu slowly retracted the smile from his face and quietly watched the girl.


    At first, the girl continued to bluff, but gradually, her gaze became more and more unfocused, until she finally lowered her head and simply began to eat her vegetables.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reached out to pull the table aside. The girl, holding her chopsticks, exclaimed, "Hey? Hey? Hey? What are you doing!"


    Qiu Tu, with a cold face, pointed at the black uniform he wore and asked in a deep voice, "Do you know which department this uniform belongs to?"


    The girl looked puzzled.


    Qiu Tu stated emphatically, "The Political Department!"


    After saying that, he asked again, "Do you know what the Political Department does?"


    The girl shook her head in confusion.


    Qiu Tu said, "Responsible for espionage, counter-espionage, internal supervision, and various other dark affairs!"


    Then, he continued to ask, "Do you know what methods we use to interrogate prisoners?"


    The girl''s attitude softened considerably. She hunched her shoulders and shook her head pitifully.


    Qiu Tu took out a stack of slightly blurred color photos from his pocket and slapped them heavily into the girl''s hands.


    The girl took the photos, wanting to look, but found it inconvenient while still holding chopsticks. Hesitating for a moment, she put the chopsticks in her mouth and flipped through the photos.


    These photos, which Qiu Tu had specifically gone to the Political Department to request that afternoon, were all of torture scenes or corpses that had died horrifically.


    Even Qiu Tu felt horrified looking at the photos, let alone a girl like Shen Lingshuang.


    So after just seeing two pictures, her little face turned deathly pale, and her eyes began to glaze over.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu asked knowingly, "Why are you trembling?"


    Shen Lingshuang stuttered, "Me, where am I trembling?"


    By the end, her teeth were chattering uncontrollably.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu secretly laughed to himself: Weakling, thought you were so tough, but a little scare and you cower as well.


    Realizing the time was right, he didn''t continue to press the girl. Instead, while reaching out to take the photos back, he comforted her, "Don''t worry, as long as you behave, I won''t hurt you."


    "You wouldn''t want to experience something like this, would you?"


    Shen Lingshuang quickly shook her head. Perhaps for fear that Qiu Tu wouldn''t believe her, she shook it as if it were a rattle drum.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded with satisfaction, then began a new round of questioning, "Now, tell me, who are you really? How did you come to Xinjie City?"


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu pitifully, "I... I escaped from the Planning Area of the Third Sanctuary. My family suddenly faced a disaster, and I had no choice but to seek refuge in the Eighth Sanctuary..."


    Qiu Tu took out a notebook and casually started to record the interrogation, "Don''t be so vague, give me specifics. Which Planning Area of the Third Sanctuary?"


    Shen Lingshuang shrank back, "The Seventh District."


    Qiu Tu wrote it down, then asked further, "How did you become a Pharmacist?"


    Shen Lingshuang timidly said, "It''s a family heritage..." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Family heritage?" Qiu Tu asked with curiosity.


    Shen Lingshuang nodded, "My family has a long history of medical practice, so I learned to concoct potions from a young age, and gradually I became proficient."


    Qiu Tu frowned as he looked at her, "Is the recipe for the Cataclysmic Potion also passed down from your family?"


    Shen Lingshuang gave Qiu Tu a surprised glance, "You actually know about the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "How fresh, don''t you know why you were arrested?"


    Shen Lingshuang blinked, saying with a puzzled face, "Wasn''t I arrested for selling fake potions?"


    Qiu Tu: ?


    The two exchanged perplexed looks.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu tapped on his notebook, saying sternly, "Stop joking around!"


    "Do you think I''m playing with you!"


    "Let me tell you, this is an interrogation, an interrogation!"


    Having said that, he glared viciously at the girl and switched his questioning approach, "I''m asking you, can you make the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Shen Lingshuang shrank her head in, saying cautiously, "I can only make inferior quality Cataclysmic Potions."


    "But as for the specific effects, I really don''t know...."


    She said softly, "The potions I make have always been odd. They always have some strange effects."


    "For instance, when my father had a fever, I made him a fever-reducing potion according to the recipe."


    "His fever indeed subsided, but he also became completely cold to the touch....."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    "Another time, I was testing a new potion and found out it was poisonous; I could only take Antidotes."


    "But after eating several Antidotes without effect, I had no choice but to retch green foam while gnawing on Detoxifying Herbs."


    "I chewed through all the Detoxifying Herbs stored at home until my whole face turned green before I was cured...."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    He felt like three black lines were hanging from his forehead.


    Just what kind of creature was this girl in front of him?


    Was she joking, or was she serious?


    If she was serious... then did she dare to take her own Cataclysmic Potions?


    Meanwhile, perhaps noticing the grim look on Qiu Tu''s face, Shen Lingshuang tilted her head, looking up at Qiu Tu with curiosity and asked, "Why aren''t you laughing anymore? Are you naturally disinclined to smile?"


    As she spoke, a mischievous cleverness flashed in her eyes.


    Qiu Tu: ???!


    In that instant, Qiu Tu confirmed something: The girl was acting! From the moment she saw the photo, she had been putting on a show, including the stories she told later to tease him!


    This was completely outrageous!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu could no longer suppress his anger. He directly pulled the girl up and pushed her into the chair.


    Then he reached behind his back and pulled out his dagger, intending to give Shen Lingshuang a harsh lesson and intimidate her!


    After all, whether it was the fraud rings of his previous life or the Political Department of this world, there were many cruel and painful punishments that inflicted harm without causing disability!


    But just as his hand touched the hilt of the dagger, he suddenly remembered the girl''s identity shrouded in mystery. In that moment, he calmed down.


    He looked at Shen Lingshuang fiercely, torn between letting her go and carrying out the punishment. Caught in his dilemma, his gaze fell on the girl''s slender waist and perky buttocks as she leaned over the table.


    The next second, his hand came down hard!


    "Slap!" "Slap!" "Slap!"

 Chapter 21 The Second Treasure Chest Opens

    Qiu Tu really put some muscle into it, so after just two hits, the girl was crying out in pain.She seemed to be genuinely angry, as she turned around to glare at Qiu Tu with tears in her eyes, her little canine teeth tightly biting her lips, and she bellowed, "You''re done for! Really, you''re done for!"


    "I''m going to have my dad kill your whole family! All of them!"


    "And scatter your ashes to the wind!"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh angrily at her words. He slapped her shapely buttocks hard again and countered, "Well, that''s a coincidence, because I''m a man with no attachments. My parents and relatives are all dead!"


    "So don''t mess with me. If you really piss me off, I''ll rape you before I kill you, and then just run away!"


    "I don''t care who your dad is, even if he''s the lord of heaven, can he bring you back to life?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang was stunned.


    She realized she was completely out of options with this tall investigator before her. Neither soft approach nor hard tactic worked.


    Usually, mentioning her father''s name was enough to have everyone showing the utmost respect, but this man didn''t care at all.


    He was like someone not of this world, totally oblivious to what the title of Deputy Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council truly implied¡­


    Was she really going to take a fall here today?


    As Shen Lingshuang''s mind raced, Qiu Tu remained silent, and the room quieted down for a moment.


    After a while, seeing that Shen Lingshuang had indeed calmed down, Qiu Tu quietly clenched his hand that had turned red from slapping, and taunted, "What, got scared? Bring it on!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s taunt, Shen Lingshuang snapped back to reality.


    With tearful eyes and a look of feigned sorrow, she pleaded at Qiu Tu, "Investigator brother, I was wrong~ Please don''t be angry, and don''t hit or scold me anymore. Whatever you ask, I promise to tell the whole truth¡­"


    After saying this, she puckered her lips pitifully, batting her large eyes at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t fooled by Shen Lingshuang''s pretense of submission.


    He still firmly pinned Shen Lingshuang to the chair, then placed a paper and pen on her back, and said coldly, "Alright, I''ll ask, you answer."


    "If I''m not satisfied, the punishment won''t be as simple as before."


    Embarrassed and annoyed at being put in such a humiliating position to answer questions by force, Shen Lingshuang''s inner feelings were a mix of shame and anger. But given the circumstances, she had no choice but to comply.


    Consequently, Qiu Tu soon extracted much valuable intelligence from her, such as...


    ''After the Cataclysm Awakening, each person takes a different Cataclysm path?''


    ''There are six paths in total: Destruction, Life, Mystery, Immortality, Order, and Chaos?''


    ''The abilities or traits each person acquires after their Cataclysm Awakening align with their respective Cataclysm path?''


    ''For instance, a Cataclysmic on the path of Life has the simple trait of being prolific in childbirth? Hence, she gave birth to 10 babies at a time, totaling 107 children in five years?''


    ''For instance, a Cataclysmic on the path of Destruction has the ability to devour everything? Soil, gravel, buildings, all consumable by biting directly?''


    Truth be told, as he listened to Shen Lingshuang''s reports that sounded like utter fantasy, Qiu Tu felt like he was turning into Yan Chen from the previous night.


    He felt she was lying, yet everything was logically consistent.


    He felt she was telling the truth, but it was all too magical...


    Qiu Tu was finally beginning to understand the loathsomeness of a "liar."


    He gave a suspicious glance at Shen Lingshuang, who lay prone on the chair, but in the end, he decided to provisionally trust her this one time.


    So, Qiu Tu first helped her up from the chair, then dragged the table back over that he had moved earlier, and finally handed her a pair of new chopsticks, "Eat."


    Shen Lingshuang didn''t take the chopsticks. She rubbed her arm that had been painfully tugged and her swollen buttocks while looking up with reddened eyes and pouting, "I don''t want to eat, it''s all cold~"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    This girl really has a lot of demands!


    Taking a deep breath to suppress the nameless anger in his heart, Qiu Tu stood up and went outside to call a servant from the Qin Family, arranging to have the dishes reheated. As for himself, he lit up a cigarette and stood frowning alone in the courtyard.


    The moonlight, obscured by sparse dark clouds, left only a dim glow that draped over the quiet courtyard in a cold blue veil.


    The cigarette butt in his hand flickered on and off, like a lonely firefly, while Qiu Tu''s thoughts were immersed in the method for making the Cataclysmic Potion he had just obtained from Shen Lingshuang.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, the recipe for the Cataclysmic Potion was actually not complex; one merely needed to follow the "Star, Moon, King, and Minister" ratio to concoct the potion.


    Star, Moon, King, and Minister are nicknames for the roles different ingredients play in the formula for Secret Medicines.


    Moon Medicine and Star Medicine refer to the two main ingredients in Secret Medicines.


    In the Cataclysmic Potion, Moon Medicine is the primary Cataclysm Material, such as the Aurora Stone; Star Medicine, on the other hand, is an assistant medicine that activates the effects of the primary Cataclysm Materials, generally common medicinal ingredients.


    King Medicine and Assistant Medicine refer to two types of auxiliary medicines in Secret Medicines.


    Assistant Medicine is used to moderate the effects of the primary medicine, usually also common medicinal ingredients, and the required Assistant Medicine varies according to the effects of the primary medicine, which could be one or several types.


    As for King Medicine, it is the agent that binds the Secret Medicine together to ensure its stable effect, so a neutral and harmonious liquid Cataclysm Material is needed.


    Speaking of neutral and harmonious liquid Cataclysm Materials, Shen Lingshuang also provided a few examples. Commonly used ones include Glow-worm Blood, Tears of Moon Color, Ancient Tree Sap, etc.....


    "Tears of Moon Color...."


    Muttering the name of this material, Qiu Tu looked towards the Treasure Chest in the upper left corner, the one he received after surviving the last crisis.


    Inside the chest was a bottle of treasure-blue liquid, none other than Tears of Moonlight...


    "Tears of Moonlight: One of the commonly used Cataclysm Materials. Just gather the other Cataclysm Materials to make items like the ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Key of Different Dimension,'' ''Nat''s Manuscript,'' and other Cataclysm Props."


    Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised that the Treasure Chest just happened to contain Tears of Moonlight. After all, under the introduction of "Crisis Intuition," it was already noted that "rewards relate to the crisis."


    Since the two Treasure Chests were obtained from consecutive crises, it was reasonable for the rewards to be a match.


    But now, Qiu Tu''s dilemma was...with only this one set of materials for making the Cataclysmic Potion, should he really hand them over to Shen Lingshuang, who seemed so unreliable?


    Moreover, given his current relationship with her, would she really put her heart into making it for him?


    After staring blankly at the sky for a while, Qiu Tu suddenly threw his cigarette to the ground and stamped it out ferociously, ''Damn it! There isn''t anyone else anyway, I have to try it out to be at peace!''


    At the same time, just as Qiu Tu made up his mind, suddenly, there was a flicker before his eyes.


    The next second, a series of prompts appeared in his line of sight. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Under your firm repression, Shen Lingshuang has developed a strange emotion towards you."


    "If you entrust her with making the Cataclysmic Potion, her kind heart will lead her to scoff verbally, but she won''t deliberately spoil it¡ªshe might at most spit in the Potion after she has made it."


    "But the arrangement of the Cataclysmic Potion doesn''t just require adherence to the Four Essentials of Secret Medicines, but also the crucial fifth and sixth elements: auspicious time and favorable location."


    "Following the Four Essentials of Secret Medicines is only enough for successful concoction of the Cataclysmic Potion, but the fifth and sixth elements are what determine the effect this Potion will have..."


    "You wouldn''t want to know what effect a Cataclysmic Potion concocted near Xinjie City in the last three days would have upon consumption...."


    With the end of the prompts, a three-day countdown hourglass slowly appeared beside the first hourglass.


    Now, looking at the new countdown hourglass in the upper left corner of his vision, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but blink.


    Wait a second, wasn''t the information revealed by this Crisis Intuition a bit too much?


    Let me think this through....

 Chapter 22 Emotional Scam

    Looking at the lines of prompts before him, Qiu Tu''s brain quickly worked through the analysis of the newly acquired intelligence.First, it turns out... "Crisis Intuition" can trigger multiple alerts at the same time, not just one!


    This discovery immediately improved Qiu Tu''s situation quite a bit. After all, even if many crises were to happen at once, he could be aware of all of them.


    Secondly, the "Crisis Intuition" could also be triggered not only when someone else intended to harm him but also when he was about to do something that could lead to his own demise.


    In that case, the usefulness of this Golden Finger had been greatly elevated. It could even assist Qiu Tu in making some crucial decisions.


    Furthermore, the configuration of the "Cataclysmic Potion" actually has "hidden elements" related to time and place?


    No wonder the odds of obtaining Supernatural Power in this world were so low; the key element had been overlooked.


    Or to put it another way... from the perspective of scientific development, no one would consider time and place critical factors affecting a drug''s efficacy.


    What''s more... even if others learned this information, it would be hard to verify: each experiment might cost them a precious Cataclysmic Potion and a living human life.


    Only Qiu Tu was different. With his "Crisis Intuition," he would get a corresponding warning if he faced a fatal threat.


    So... if he configured the Cataclysmic Potion according to the "Crisis Intuition" prompts, couldn''t he awaken to the Cataclysm 100% of the time?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt all the worries of the past two days dissipate like smoke.


    Besides these three key pieces of information, Qiu Tu also deduced a somewhat amusing insight from the prompts... Shen Lingshuang was actually a masochist?!


    She had actually started to feel something unusual for him in response to his rough treatment?


    If that wasn''t a masochist, what was?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn around, his gaze falling back on the room, ''Could it be... that from now on, he had to enhance their relationship by spanking this girl?''


    Qiu Tu was a bit baffled. After all, he was a respectable man...


    As he thought this, the maid came over with a tray of hot food.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu actively reached out to take it and then carried it into the room.


    Inside the room, Shen Lingshuang, wearing silver handcuffs, was propping her cheek with her left hand, gazing out of the window as if lost in thought.


    Qiu Tu sized her up for a moment, finding the girl quite pretty when she was quiet: a palm-sized oval face, delicate lips, and a slightly upturned nose formed a youthful and tender visage.


    Perhaps because she was still maturing, her presence lacked the warmth and charm typical of her age, replaced instead by a hint of youthful vitality.


    Maybe Qiu Tu''s gaze was too direct, as Shen Lingshuang frowned and turned her head, pouting with a childishly fierce expression, "What are you looking at? Keep staring, and I''ll poke your eyes out!"


    Possibly because he knew about Shen Lingshuang''s personality from the Crisis Warnings, Qiu Tu''s temperament had mellowed as well.


    While calmly placing the food on the table, he said to Shen Lingshuang, "Ling Shuang, I''m pleased that you''re willing to cooperate with the interrogation and tell me everything you know."


    "But I don''t like your attitude."


    Shen Lingshuang gnashed her tiger teeth, wanting to retort but perhaps remembering she was still at Qiu Tu''s mercy, so she just snorted through her nose and went back to eating in silence.


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue to press her. Although he knew the girl was a masochist, training a masochist was like scamming¡ªit was all about baiting and reeling in, a game of giving and taking.


    You couldn''t just oppress; you also had to offer some warmth occasionally.


    ```


    So it was that Qiu Tu, while looking at the interrogation records in his hand, silently finished the meal with Shen Lingshuang.


    When Shen Lingshuang put down her chopsticks, Qiu Tu also timely closed the interrogation records and stood up.


    Shen Lingshuang gave him a curious glance and asked, tilting her head, "Were you just keeping me company while I ate?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at her and deliberately said, "No."


    After speaking, he swept away, leaving the room with a flourish and arranging for servants to come in and clean up.


    Shen Lingshuang watched Qiu Tu''s dashing figure disappear, blinked her big eyes, and thinking back to the scene where Qiu Tu had firmly pinned her down on the chair for a harsh scolding, a ripple stirred in her heart...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, who had stepped outside, looked at the murky sky and let out a slight sigh as he reflected on his past.


    Aside from economic fraud, there''s actually another branch of deceit: emotional manipulation.


    And many times, emotional manipulation can extract benefits more easily than financial scams.


    In his previous life, Qiu Tu''s phone scam syndicate was a comprehensive large group that, aside from economic fraud, also dealt with emotional manipulation schemes.


    Twelve types of women, thirty-six response plans, one hundred and eight ways to foster feelings and PUA techniques... all had been compiled into a manual and distributed to the staff to study.


    Although Qiu Tu had not studied it seriously, he had dabbled in it.


    He hadn''t considered this before, but it was the system''s Crisis Warning that reminded him of Shen Lingshuang''s fondness for him. So he just went with the flow to enhance their relationship.


    After spending a night together, Qiu Tu had made a rough assessment of Shen Lingshuang''s identity: even if it wasn''t as exaggerated as she claimed, it was pretty close to the truth. At least the identity of a high-ranking official''s child was indubitable.


    Although it was unclear why such a girl would end up in the Planning Area, it was indeed an opportunity for Qiu Tu.


    If he could really grasp this lead, maybe there would be room for things to turn around.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu found Fang Ming and made arrangements for Shen Lingshuang''s security, mainly borrowing two maid servants from the Qin Family to take care of her.


    After all, Shen Lingshuang was a girl, and the Security Team was all rough men; some matters were not too convenient.


    Fang Ming was indeed a rare good man in this Cataclysmic world. Just days ago, Qiu Tu had been under his command, but now he had suddenly leaped to become Fang Ming''s superior. Despite this, Fang Ming did not show any hard feelings and competently served as Qiu Tu''s deputy.


    With him assisting by his side, Qiu Tu could devote more energy to solving his current predicament.


    After arranging for Shen Lingshuang''s daily care, Qiu Tu walked toward the residence that the Qin Family had prepared for him. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    To accommodate the Security Team, the Qin Family had specifically vacated a two-entry courtyard. Since Qin Shuman was staying directly at the Qin Family''s Main Residence, it was natural for Qiu Tu to move into the main building of this courtyard.


    Upon arrival at the main building''s entrance, before he even stepped into the room, Qiu Tu noticed the door to the front hall was open, and the light inside was on.


    He paused for a moment, then stepped inside.


    Entering the front hall, Qiu Tu saw a portly middle-aged man leisurely sipping tea in the guest chair.


    A girl about sixteen or seventeen stood by his side, head bowed.


    Perhaps hearing footsteps, the middle-aged man turned around; seeing Qiu Tu, his face immediately filled with smiles, and he stood up to greet him warmly, "Ah, Agent Qiu, I''ve been waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly as he walked over warmly, "Master Qin Si, do you have matters to discuss with me so late at night?"


    Master Qin Si, the fourth son of Old Master Qin, also the head of the fourth branch. Despite his genial appearance, he managed the Qin Family''s underworld businesses like the Underground Brothel and gambling dens...


    ```

 Chapter 23 Late Night Secret Talks

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s plump face revealed a sincere smile. As he pulled Qiu Tu down to sit, he said, "There''s nothing much. It''s just that I felt an instant connection with Agent Qiu at the banquet earlier and wanted to get to know you better in private."Upon saying this, he tentatively asked, "It''s still early, would Agent Qiu be interested in taking a walk with me?"


    Seeing the expression on Master Qin Si''s face and considering his status, Qiu Tu certainly could guess where "taking a walk" would lead¡­


    But given his current official duties, he smiled and politely declined the invitation, "Thank you for your kind offer, Fourth Master. However, I''m feeling slightly unwell tonight. Perhaps another time."


    Master Qin Si, still smiling, replied, "I understand, I understand."


    He then pointed at the girl next to him and instructed, "Xiao Ying, what are you standing there for? Go brew some tea for Agent Qiu."


    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s command, the girl quickly bowed in acknowledgment.


    Shortly after, a cup of fragrant tea was placed beside Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu nodded his thanks, and while sipping tea, he recalled the situation of the Qin Family''s Fifth House in his mind.


    Apart from Old Wu of the Fifth House, who was born of the legitimate wife, the others from the four houses had the same mother.


    The eldest house was headed by Qin Heng, the current patriarch of the Qin family, whose official position was Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau at Xinjie City City Hall. He was mainly responsible for household registration, social assistance, and welfare management.


    In the whole of Xinjie City, he was a significant figure, second only to Yan Chen and the other three big bosses.


    The second house was led by Qin Zhengguang, the Qin Family''s second-in-command on the surface. His official position was Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Management Division at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, mainly in charge of city-wide public security management and a person of actual power within the Bureau.


    It was to pave the way for him that Old Master Qin kept making private connections with Yan Chen while he was alive.


    The third house was Qin Shu, the third brother among the five Qin siblings. Unlike his two brothers, he did not enter politics but chose to engage in business. The Qin Family''s various business affairs were managed by him, mainly in legitimate industries like ready-to-wear, jewelry, and department stores.


    These three brothers of the Qin family, together with Master Qin Si, who was sitting beside Qiu Tu and in charge of the family''s grey industries, formed the Xinjie Qin family, extending across both the legitimate and underworld realms.


    As for the Qin Family''s Fifth House, because their mother was the second wife and they were pampered by Old Master Qin due to their young age, they were somewhat unruly and had now become a well-known profligate son in Xinjie City, already excluded from the Qin family''s core of power.


    Therefore, even before entering the Qin Family, Qiu Tu had selected two points of breakthrough for his mission. One of them was Master Qin Si.


    What he had not expected was that before he had taken the initiative to approach Master Qin Si, Master Qin Si had found him first. Moreover, having found him, all he did was engage in idle chat without saying anything of substance.


    What was he trying to sell in his gourd?


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu sipped his tea quietly, patiently waiting for Master Qin Si to speak.


    After all... if Master Qin Si was not in a rush, neither was he.


    Perhaps not expecting Qiu Tu to be so patient, Master Qin Si drank three cups of tea and remained silent for approximately ten minutes before he finally couldn''t help but speak up.


    He asked cheerfully, "Does Agent Qiu have a mission here this time?"


    Hearing his question, Qiu Tu, who had been counting the tea leaves in his cup, slowly came back to reality and also smiled as he replied, "What mission could I possibly have? Naturally, it''s to ensure Miss Shuman''s safety." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing that, Master Qin Si, unconvinced, shook his head and raised an eyebrow, "But that''s not what I''ve heard..."


    A thought flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind. "Oh?" he uttered, then looked at Master Qin Si with feigned curiosity, "What has Fourth Master heard then?"


    Master Qin Si glanced outside to confirm that no one was eavesdropping. He then lowered his voice, softly saying, "I heard you have a grudge against our Qin family and have come to investigate the Qin Family."


    Of course, such matters couldn''t be discussed openly, so Qiu Tu couldn''t help but wave his hands repeatedly, "Fourth Master, what are you joking about?"


    "What am I that I could investigate the Qin Family?"


    "Let''s not even talk about Commissioner Qin Heng''s status in Xinjie City or Director Qin Zhengguang''s power, even you... could crush me to death with just a finger."


    "If I offended you all, wouldn''t I be afraid that one day I''d be sunk in a pond on my way back home? Hahaha."


    Hearing Qiu Tu speak like this, Master Qin Si also burst into laughter. But the next second, he changed his tone and pointedly said, "So that''s why you moved into the Qin family home."


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he almost couldn''t maintain his smile.


    Is this guy really so steeped in the ways of Jianghu to blatantly threaten a public officer?


    But then upon second thought, Qiu Tu felt he might be wrong: after all, if Master Qin Si really wanted to harm him, his "Crisis Intuition" should have directly triggered a warning, right?


    Could it be...


    With that thought, a light bulb went off in Qiu Tu''s head, and he guessed a possibility.


    He retracted his smile, and suddenly looked at Master Qin Si, then seriously said, "Are you threatening me, Fourth Master?"


    "What, I''m in the Qin family, you wouldn''t dare act against me because it would be hard to explain to the Investigation Bureau. But if I go out, then I''m as good as dead, is that it?"


    "Are you threatening an agent, trying to provoke the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau?"


    Master Qin Si probably didn''t expect Qiu Tu to be so bold. He was taken aback and then his face changed back to the cheerful expression he had before, saying, "Agent Qiu, you''ve misunderstood me. I''m just making conversation with you, why take it so seriously?"


    "I haven''t threatened you, and I haven''t provoked the Investigation Bureau."


    "But people go through birth, old age, sickness, and death. Who knows whether tomorrow or an accident will come first, right?"


    Speaking thus, he narrowed his eyes, patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder with an ambiguous smile, "So, Agent Qiu, you must take good rest, take good care of your health, don''t catch any illnesses or suffer any accidents."


    After saying that, he laughed heartily as he stood up, then left Qiu Tu''s room in a carefree manner. However... as he got up, a white booklet seemed to have accidentally dropped from him...


    Qiu Tu watched him leave, then slowly got up and picked up the booklet from the floor.


    Opening the booklet, it contained records of the second household''s Qin Zhengguang''s illegal actions during his time as the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Administration, including accepting bribes from gang members, indulging gang members'' crimes, releasing members of the anti-government armed forces without permission, and adjusting patrol routes to create opportunities for the members of the Anti-government Armed Forces to carry out operations, among other charges.


    After reading the booklet, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He indeed hadn''t guessed wrong; Master Qin Si had come to tip him off and make overtures.


    Although he appeared to be threatening him on the surface, he was actually indirectly telling him that the Qin family had become aware of his real purpose, and warned him to be careful.


    As for this booklet, it was Master Qin Si''s way of testing him, to see if he dared to investigate the Qin family and to what extent he wanted to probe.


    The only pity was... he somewhat took me for a fool...

 Chapter 24 Kill!

    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu closed the small booklet in his hands and gently tapped it while silently analyzing:If all the charges recorded in this booklet were true, then even if the Qin family was not implicated, Qin Zhengguang would definitely be finished.


    At that time, with one of the Qin family''s two major pillars in politics chopped off by himself, would they let him off?


    As for the impractical idea of using this evidence to drag down the Qin family, Qiu Tu hadn''t even considered it.


    After all, this was information collected by the Qin Family''s Fourth House. How could they possibly set themselves on fire and bring down their own family?


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t mistaken, there were both truths and falsehoods among the charges in this booklet, and even for the genuine parts, Master Qin Si must have made preparations for severance early on, so as not to let the fire spread to the Qin family.


    So, were they using him as their weapon for internal conflicts among the brothers?


    But by bringing down Qin Zhengguang, did Master Qin Si really stand to gain any benefits?


    Could this be a trap?


    Qiu Tu patted the booklet in his hand as he quietly pondered.


    And as he was deep in thought, suddenly a sneaky figure caught his peripheral vision outside the window.


    He was startled for a moment, and without giving further thought to the analysis, he immediately gathered his thoughts and called out sharply, "Who''s out there!" before striding out.


    Qiu Tu moved quickly, so as soon as he had stepped outside, he caught Cui Lan, who was attempting to flee.


    Caught by Qiu Tu, Cui Lan didn''t dare to run away any longer. She turned around with an embarrassed face and bowed slightly, "Agent Qiu."


    Seeing Miss Shuman''s black, chubby maid again, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed deeply: Why was it her again?


    Qiu Tu asked expressionlessly, "Why aren''t you taking care of Miss Shuman and instead hanging around my doorstep?"


    Cui Lan, with her head lowered and feeling guilty, said, "Just passing by."


    Qiu Tu''s face grew colder, "Passing by? Miss Shuman lives in the main house, at least a minute''s walk from here. Don''t you think your reason is a bit far-fetched?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cui Lan defended herself, "It''s my first time at the Qin family''s, I don''t know the way and just happened to wander here after getting lost."


    Qiu Tu looked at her impervious attitude and felt a surge of irritation.


    He simply made it clear, "How long have you been here? What did you hear and see?"


    Possibly encouraged by the topic, Cui Lan slightly raised her head to confidently meet Qiu Tu''s gaze, a schadenfreude smile on her lips, "For over ten minutes. As for what I heard and saw... I wouldn''t dare to say." S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Anyway, I saw Master Qin Si and you having a pleasant conversation, so I waited outside, not daring to disturb."


    Qiu Tu''s penetrating gaze became especially profound, filled with an intensity that couldn''t dissipate...


    Over ten minutes, and she claims she was just passing by?


    He looked at Cui Lan intently, about to say something.


    But Cui Lan took the initiative to speak first, "Agent Qiu, don''t always focus on me. Although I am also part of the entourage, I''m not with the Security Team."


    "I''m a servant of the Bureau Chief, directly taking orders from him. If the Bureau Chief assigns me some other tasks, I definitely have to do them..."


    "If you have been loyal to the Bureau Chief, what is there to fear?"


    Having said this, she looked up with a somewhat defiant gaze at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu looked at her, just looked at her.


    After a moment, he took a deep breath and laughed, "Ha ha," saying, "Understood, Cui Lan. After all, you are a close confidante of the Bureau Chief, with special assignments, I get it."


    Finishing his address, he extended his hand to see her off, "Then I won''t disturb you any longer. As you were."


    Seeing Qiu Tu conceding, Cui Lan raised her head proudly, then with a perfunctory bow towards Qiu Tu, she turned and left arrogantly.


    Just as she was stepping out, suddenly, she felt a large hand violently cover her mouth, and then she was brutally pressed against a chest devoid of warmth.


    The next second, she felt a sharp pain in her back as a cold, sharp object was fiercely stabbed into her lower back.


    As she felt the bone-piercing agony, Cui Lan had only one thought: had Qiu Tu gone mad? How dare he!


    She was Yan Chen''s maid, after all, and she even had orders from Yan Chen to surveil him!


    Was he not afraid of Yan Chen''s wrath?


    She tried hard to turn her head to see Qiu Tu''s expression, but the hand over her mouth held her face down firmly, preventing her from moving.


    She struggled to break free from this control. But apart from intensifying the pain as she writhed, it was of no use.


    At this time, perhaps sensing her resistance, Qiu Tu''s low, hoarse voice timely reached her ear, "Take a deep breath, it''s okay, it will be over soon."


    Accompanying that whisper were the slow but firm twists of the dagger and even more severe pain....


    Feeling the weakness in her body and the ebbing of life, tears flowed uncontrollably from the corners of Cui Lan''s eyes. She shook her head desperately, crying silently, but none of it could stop her life from inching closer to its countdown....


    As consciousness flickered, she seemed to see herself from yesterday noon, vividly recounting to Yan Chen how Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman were exchanging glances...


    She seemed to see herself last night, leading the way for Qiu Tu with a look of schadenfreude....


    She seemed to see herself this morning, hiding by the door eavesdropping on Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman''s secret whispers...


    She also seemed to see Yan Chen calling her into the dark study, rewarding her with a Silver Yuan for surveilling Qiu Tu, and the ecstatic expression she had....


    If she had known it would end like this, she would never have gotten involved in the affairs of such important people....


    Gradually, Cui Lan''s consciousness grew blurrier until it faded away completely.....


    ....


    Feeling Cui Lan no longer struggle, Qiu Tu emotionlessly let go of his hand.


    He coldly looked at Cui Lan''s corpse, then skillfully dragged her into the house, returned to the courtyard, and lit a cigarette. While silently smoking, he calmly cleaned the bloodstains from the ground.


    After finishing all this, Qiu Tu changed his clothes, then dialed a communication number.


    Soon, Eagle and Ah-Kun arrived late at night. Upon seeing Cui Lan''s corpse, they didn''t say anything, just took out a sack to bag the body, cleaned up the traces once more, nodded at Qiu Tu, and left with the body on their shoulders.


    Watching the backs of the two men disappearing into the distance, the darkness in Qiu Tu''s eyes deepened.


    After a moment, he softly said, "The first one...."


    ...


    Late at night, the door of a side room in the Qin Family''s secondary residence was suddenly rapped on "tap tap tap."


    Shortly after, a middle-aged woman''s questioning voice came from inside, "Who is it?"


    The caller said softly, "Madam, it''s Ah-Fu. I have urgent matters to report to the Patriarch."


    After a while, the sound of rustling clothes came from within the room.


    Shortly, the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, wrapped in a robe, walked out from the inside.


    He bore a resemblance to Qin Si by about fifty to sixty percent, but his body was very thin and frail, with a sickly pale complexion.


    Stepping out of the room, the chilly breeze blew causing him to cover his mouth and cough twice before he looked towards Ah-Fu and asked coldly, "What happened?"


    ---


    During the new book phase, I need continuous reading and recommendations. If it''s convenient for everyone, please continue reading every day or click through to the latest chapter. Thank you, everyone. Lastly, I ask for your recommendation votes and monthly tickets~~

 Chapter 25 Way 37 of 108 to Improve Relationships

    ```Ah-Fu knew that Qin Heng was unwell and couldn''t stay outside for long, so he hurriedly came forward and whispered his report, "Master, three hours ago, the guards reported that Agent Qiu had summoned two people over."


    "Half an hour later, those two people left carrying a sack."


    "An hour ago, the servants reported that Miss Shuman''s personal maid Cui Lan has gone missing."


    "She said she was going out for a walk around 9 o''clock tonight, but she has not returned. I''ve arranged for people to search everywhere, but there''s no trace of her. All the ponds and wells have been checked as well, with no sign of her."


    "But a servant recalled that three hours ago, she was seen heading to the courtyard where the Security Team was staying...."


    Ah-Fu didn''t finish his sentence, but the implication was clear.


    Qin Heng muttered to himself expressionlessly, "Cui Lan...?"


    "Isn''t she the maid we hired to serve Miss Shuman?"


    Ah-Fu reminded him in a low voice, "Master, have you forgotten? The maid sent to serve Miss Shuman was returned the same day after being sent to Director Yan''s villa."


    "So, Cui Lan is a maid personally used by Director Yan."


    Qin Heng''s expression darkened instantly, "Did he bring her from the Sanctuary?"


    This time, Ah-Fu clearly hesitated for a second, then remembering Cui Lan''s plump, dark complexion, he shook his head, "She shouldn''t be."


    Qin Heng''s expression eased slightly, and after pondering for a moment, he said, "Then tell the second brother. Let them deal with the internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau themselves."


    Ah-Fu took the order, "Yes."


    Qin Heng coughed twice again, then turned around and went back to his room.


    After a while, a woman''s concerned low voice came from the room, "What''s wrong?"


    Qin Heng replied softly, "It''s nothing, just a minor issue."


    The woman responded with a "Hmm".


    The room gradually quieted down, and the blue moonlight, like water, spilled over the entire Qin Family Mansion....


    [7 Days]


    [64:25:01]


    ....


    A silent night passed.


    Early the next morning, Qiu Tu got out of bed and habitually glanced at the two hourglass timers in the upper left corner.


    In the timers, the first was for the time Director Yan Chen had given him to investigate the Qin family''s crimes. Six days left.


    The second was for the Cataclysmic Potion''s preparation time, about 57 hours remaining.


    ''Calculating the time, the Qin family should have reported Cui Lan''s death to Yan Chen by now?''


    ''Then, his reaction should be seen soon....''


    ''By then, I''ll know if I guessed right...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu got up, freshened up, then went out of his room to have breakfast.


    To accommodate the Security Team, the Qin family had set up a small kitchen in the courtyard. Every morning, the small kitchen would be ready with meals for the Security Team to eat.


    During breakfast, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming sat at the same table.


    While eating with his head down, Fang Ming said in a muted voice, "Qiu Tu, to be honest, I admire you."


    "When I first met you, you were just a regular detective, and it seemed like you had offended the Bureau Chief''s woman, earning his dislike."


    "But that same night, you turned the tables. Not only were you transferred to the Political Department, but you were also promoted."


    "At the time, I was surprised and curious." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But unexpectedly, in just one day the situation turned around again. You were appointed as the Security Team Captain, escorting Qin Shuman back to the Qin family."


    ```


    ```


    "Although I''m not sure what you''re peddling in that gourd of yours, any clear-eyed person knows this is a setup for disaster."


    "A First Level Detective from the Political Department is leading the team, it''s just short of pulling out an investigation warrant right there."


    "Which of those who has made it in the officialdom isn''t cunning? Who couldn''t guess that this is a political statement?"


    "So, countless pairs of eyes in Xinjie City are watching the Qin Family, watching the Bureau Chief, watching you."


    At this point, he paused, then continued, "As a result, last night you first met with Master Qin Si, then killed Yan Chen''s personal maid, Cui Lan..."


    "To be honest, I''m a bit confused about whose side you''re on and exactly what kind of game you''re playing..."


    "My dad always said, when you encounter someone you can''t figure out but still find somewhat trustworthy, the best method is to be honest with them."


    "Otherwise, the other person will calculate against you thoroughly, even making you count the money for them."


    "So, I want to be a little honest with you too. I got involved in this matter purely by accident, and I hope you won''t drag me into your schemes."


    "As long as you don''t involve me, I will owe you a favor."


    "As for your group of brothers, I really like Ah-Tai, and I''ve already arranged for him to participate in the Special Service Department''s selection this morning, no problem there."


    "If you pull through in the end and he continues to follow you, I''ll consider that favor repaid."


    "If something happens to you, I will treat him like my own brother and train him well. With him there, your brothers won''t be completely powerless without your care."


    "But you should try your best not to involve him in your next moves. Otherwise, I won''t be able to protect him."


    After finishing, Fang Ming continued to lower his head to eat, as if waiting for Qiu Tu''s decision.


    Qiu Tu looked at Fang Ming, just watching. After a moment, a smile bloomed on his face, and he extended his hand, "Deal."


    Fang Ming breathed a sigh of relief and extended his hand as well.


    The two hands clasped together.


    When they let go, Fang Ming added in a whisper, "Be careful, the Qin Family''s situation is not that simple, it may involve some higher-level struggles..."


    Qiu Tu felt a slight stir in his heart as he was reminded of the Crisis Intuition''s constant alerts about Yan Chen being caught in a storm. He nodded and sincerely said, "Thank you."


    ...


    After finishing the meal, as the captain of the Security Team, Qiu Tu naturally had to report to Qin Shuman.


    But before he could move, Qin Shuman came looking for him in a fluster, her skirt in hand.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman visibly relaxed.


    She hurried over to him, leaned down close and whispered, "Qiu Tu, there''s trouble."


    Smelling the burst of cherry blossom fragrance and watching the surging white waves before him, Qiu Tu continued to eat calmly while he softly inquired, "What happened?"


    Qin Shuman looked around. There were still other detectives eating at several tables, but she couldn''t care less at that point, so she sat down next to Qiu Tu and lowered her voice, "Cui Lan has disappeared. I suspect someone has harm her."


    "After I returned to my room last night, she asked for leave, saying she wanted to..."


    She was cut off before she could finish by Qiu Tu, "I know."


    "You know?" Qin Shuman''s eyes obviously froze for a moment, making her look much more bewildered.


    Qiu Tu hummed a confirmation, continued to eat without looking up, and said casually, "I killed her."


    Qin Shuman: !!?


    Qin Shuman''s eyes widened in shock as she stared at Qiu Tu.


    Fortunately, she was still rational, so the next second she regained her composure, swallowed, and asked softly, "Why?"


    Qiu Tu looked at her, not hesitating as he began to use one of the "108 Ways to Foster Affection" No. 37: For you.


    "It was of course for you."


    "For me?" Qin Shuman blinked her eyes, revealing a hint of clarity and silliness....


    ```

 Chapter 26 Testing the Bottom Line

    Qiu Tu stated matter-of-factly, "Nonsense, if it weren''t for you, why would I kill her?"Qin Shuman''s mind couldn''t quite catch up, and she asked puzzledly, "But... what did she do to me?"


    As he picked at his food, Qiu Tu explained slowly and methodically, "She was Yan Chen''s person, following you around to keep watch over you."


    "Yan Chen clearly didn''t trust you as a ''mole'' for the military, so he had her record your every word and deed to regularly report."


    At this point, Qiu Tu countered, "Are you a ''mole'' for the military?"


    Qin Shuman hastily and blankly shook her head.


    Qiu Tu said, "There you have it. She found something amiss with you and meticulously recorded all the details."


    "Last night, when she was about to report to Yan Chen, I happened upon her, so I figured I might as well go all the way and killed her."


    Qin Shuman''s mouth fell open slightly, momentarily at a loss for words.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was smiling, contentedly eating a mouthful of meat.


    People, after all, live their whole lives learning the art of passing the buck.


    If you can shift the blame to others and gain their gratitude in the process, why bear it yourself?


    Lay aside personal integrity, and enjoy the life of the shameless...


    ...


    Perhaps truly persuaded by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman seemed to be in much better spirits.


    Although she was still muttering worriedly about Yan Chen''s wrath, under Qiu Tu''s "leave it all to me" reassurances, she gradually calmed down.


    After dinner, to alleviate Qin Shuman''s concerns, Qiu Tu took the initiative to bring her to the pond to feed the fish.


    As one of Xinjie City''s most powerful and influential families, the Qin Family''s estate was broad in area and massive in architectural scale, ranking prominently within the entire city. Thus, the Qin Family Mansion not only boasted a well-arranged residence but also a meticulously designed garden with a distinctly oriental charm.


    Sunlight filtered through the delicate leaves of the bamboo, dancing on the pebble-paved pathways in a mottled pattern, S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qin Shuman sat on a stool beside the path, her long legs stretched out in front. She pinched a handful of fine fish food and gently scattered it into the crystal-clear pond.


    Suddenly, the previously peaceful waters came alive, as various mutant fish converged from all directions.


    Watching the fish swim around her, a faint smile played on her lips, and her bright, star-like eyes sparkled with allure.


    Qiu Tu stood not too far away, his gaze softly falling upon her. He felt this was the most leisurely moment he had in days.


    Yet he also wondered how much longer he could enjoy such times.


    With that thought, his gaze pierced through the Qin Family Mansion, the streets, and the buildings until it settled on the dark silhouette ensconced in the office atop the Investigation Bureau Office Building...


    At the same time.


    In the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Yan Chen sat in the Bureau Chief''s office, bowing his head as he worked through documents, listening to Secretary Bai''s report.


    After a while, he signed on a document and then looked up to ask, "So, in summary, Second Qin came to report to you today that Qiu Tu killed Cui Lan, correct?"


    Secretary Bai respectfully replied, "Yes."


    Yan Chen let out a light "hmm" from his nose, "Old Qin is really slippery, still unwilling to take a stand up until now."


    "Alright, I''ve got it," he said, and returned to reviewing the documents before him.


    Seeing that Yan Chen had no further instructions, Secretary Bai did not leave but cautiously inquired, "Bureau Chief, should we warn or discipline Qiu Tu in any way?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen paused in his actions.


    He lifted his head, his gaze sharp as he looked at Secretary Bai, flipped his pen around, and tapped it heavily on the desk, saying sternly, "Bai Yu, I know you have high hopes for Qiu Tu, but don''t try to play games with me!"


    At that moment, Secretary Bai broke out in sweat, quickly straightening his back, "Yes."


    Yan Chen''s face turned cold, and she waved her hand, "Go out."


    Secretary Bai saluted respectfully and turned to walk out of the office.


    After leaving the office, Secretary Bai closed the door behind him. Then he let out a slight sigh and shook his head as he walked toward his own office.


    ...


    The fact that Qiu Tu had killed Cui Lan was not exactly a secret. As such, many keen onlookers had also been watching how the situation progressed.


    But after waiting a day, there was absolutely no response from Yan Chen.


    No reprimand, no chastisement, and certainly no rewards. It was eerily quiet, as if she were completely unaware of the incident.


    However, by evening, most people had caught on.


    The lack of any reward meant the incident was not instigated by Yan Chen. Yan Chen was very dissatisfied with it.


    The absence of reprimand or chastisement meant the issue was not yet resolved.


    By intentionally not defining the situation, Yan Chen could, in the future, use the incident to incriminate Qiu Tu whenever she wished, be it in a major or minor way.


    On the contrary, if there were reprimands or admonishments, it would mean the incident was over. Yan Chen, although not pleased, was not preparing to take any action against Qiu Tu.


    ''Just as I thought,'' Qiu Tu felt greatly relieved after waiting an entire day with no resolution coming forth.


    ''Indeed... with my current value, Yan Chen wouldn''t inconvenience me over some non-crucial matters.''


    ''Although she still harbors some wariness towards me, she has actually made concessions in practice.''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s gaze was filled with amusement...


    Anyone familiar with scamming tactics would recognize this as the bait that conned parties bite, a common trick used by swindlers: testing the limits...


    Once a person is hooked by their own greed, their bottom line will be gradually lowered by the swindler, until it''s gone completely.


    So the next step was quite simple...


    ''It''s time to slowly increase Yan Chen''s "sunk cost"...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t even hesitate, immediately sending up a report...


    "Discovered significant clues, requesting backup of one team of Political Department Investigators for deployment, and an increase in operational funds: 399 Silver Yuan."


    "[49:19:48 (able to produce Cataclysmic Potion)]"


    ...


    In the evening, as Qiu Tu and Yan Chen were engaged in their strategic contest,


    Shen Lingshuang sat blankly on the steps of the small courtyard, holding a short-legged tabby cat and looking up at the sky with her cheek in her palm.


    A maid and a Special Service Detective stood next to her, keeping watch over her.


    After a while, she turned to look at the Special Service Detective, "Hey, don''t you think you should go check on your boss?


    "Could he have choked to death on water? Otherwise, why hasn''t he come to interrogate me all day?


    "As a significant criminal, don''t I deserve a bit of face?"


    Having probably repeated this spiel all day, the Special Service Detective, upon hearing her, silently turned away, pretending not to have heard.


    Seeing this, Shen Lingshuang glared at him indignantly, then, pouting, stroked the short-legged tabby cat a couple of times, almost yanking out its fur!


    The maid looked on sympathetically and reached out to stop her but didn''t dare to speak up...


    And just then, Qiu Tu''s voice came from outside the courtyard...

 Chapter 27 Making the Cataclysmic Potion

    "What kind of face? You''re a suspect, and you still have face?"Upon hearing that familiar mockery, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes brightened, and she stood up abruptly, exclaiming, "Qiu Tu? You''ve come!"


    As she spoke, Qiu Tu, with his hands in his pockets, strode in from outside the courtyard.


    His legs were long, his figure perfect, and the black uniform of the Political Department looked exceptionally crisp on him.


    Plus, with his handsome looks that rivaled Yanzu, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, Shen Lingshuang was momentarily mesmerized.


    108 Ways to Enhance Affection #7: If you have outstanding physical attributes, be sure to use them to your advantage. This can help you quickly conquer a woman''s heart.


    Stepping up to Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu gestured with a wave of his hand for the Special Service Detectives and the maidservant by her side to leave.


    The Special Service Detective, seeing this, clearly breathed a sigh of relief. He saluted Qiu Tu respectfully before hastily making his escape from the yard.


    The maidservant also left in a hurry, but not before she snatched the little cat from Shen Lingshuang''s arms¡ªthen, with tears in her eyes, she ran off clutching the kitten.


    Watching the two flee as if avoiding the plague, Qiu Tu was full of question marks: What exactly did Shen Lingshuang, the little witch, do to make those guarding her act like they''ve seen a ghost...?


    By then, Shen Lingshuang had also finally snapped back to reality.


    Looking at the handsome Qiu Tu, her face blushed slightly. But her strong pride still made her hold her head high as she asked, "Where did you go today? How come you didn''t come to... didn''t come to interrogate me?"


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, not indulging her rebuke, "What does it matter to you what I do?"


    But after the rebuke, he still added, "I am the captain of the Security Team; naturally, I must be guarding Miss Shuman."


    When Qiu Tu first rebuked Shen Lingshuang, although she found it satisfying, she still felt somewhat indignant.


    But as soon as she heard what Qiu Tu said next, her attention was diverted,


    "Miss Shuman?"


    Muttering the name, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but recall the celestial-like woman she saw when she was sent to the Qin Family.


    It was beauty that she, as a woman, envied.


    She felt a slight sense of loss, and then, as if possessed, she asked, "So, who do you think is prettier, Miss Shuman or me?"


    Qiu Tu looked Shen Lingshuang up and down upon hearing this.


    The young girl was actually quite attractive, but because she hadn''t fully blossomed yet and was too green, it was a bit humiliating for her to compare herself with Qin Shuman...


    So...


    "Definitely you."


    "How can Qin Shuman compare with you?"


    108 Ways to Enhance Affection #9: Offer some compliments that you know are false, as it can quickly increase the other person''s favorability.


    Shen Lingshuang, who unexpectedly received such an answer from Qiu Tu, blushed and asked awkwardly, "Do you really think so?"


    "Of course." Qiu Tu raised his hand to swear, "I swear on the life of my immediate superior, Yan Chen, that if there is a single false word, he shall have no place to be buried."


    Upon hearing that, Shen Lingshuang felt a sweet sensation in her heart. After all, who didn''t know that Yan Chen was Qiu Tu''s benefactor, and that his young age as a First Level Detective of the Political Department was entirely due to Yan Chen''s patronage.


    ¡ªShen Lingshuang had indeed learned quite a bit about Qiu Tu from the detectives guarding her today~~


    Shen Lingshuang nodded contentedly, and although she didn''t say it out loud, she felt very pleased inside.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having finished boosting Shen Lingshuang''s goodwill, also timely started the topic he came to Shen Lingshuang for, "Ling Shuang, I need you to do something for me."


    Although just moments ago Qiu Tu''s two "combination punches" had successfully hooked Shen Lingshuang, she still habitually played coy in response.


    She tilted her head, pouted her lips slightly arrogantly, and said, "Just because you tell me to do something, I have to do it? How embarrassing for me."


    Qiu Tu, however, said, "This is a command, not a question."


    "If you don''t agree, I can only help you remember yesterday''s punishment."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s domineering yet ambiguous words, Shen Lingshuang felt an inexplicable shiver in her heart. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her cheeks flushed, she turned her head away and muttered insincerely, "Fine, I''ll do it... no need to threaten people..."


    After speaking, she asked without much enthusiasm, "So what do you want me to do?"


    Qiu Tu took out a package from his pocket and handed it to Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang was rather casual when receiving the package, but when she saw what was inside, her eyes widened in an instant, "Aurora Stone! Tears of Moonlight!"


    After recognizing these two precious Cataclysmic Materials, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu in surprise, "Where did you get these two things from?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, refusing to answer, "That''s a secret, you shouldn''t pry."


    Shen Lingshuang was indeed obedient. When Qiu Tu told her not to ask, she didn''t ask any further. However, as her handcuffed hands brushed over the two Cataclysm Materials, her gaze still became extremely complex.


    Putting away the playful expression on her face, she looked at Qiu Tu and asked seriously, "Our relationship shouldn''t be good, right? How can you trust me with these items?"


    "Aren''t you afraid that I will deliberately sabotage and ruin the potion?"


    "You haven''t seen a Cataclysmic Potion before, have you? Aren''t you afraid that I might secretly make a fake potion and pocket these two Cataclysmic Materials?"


    "And... have you ever seen my alchemy skills? Aren''t you afraid that I''ll fail in making it?"


    Qiu Tu did not directly answer Shen Lingshuang''s barrage of questions, but instead fired back, "Would you intentionally spoil my Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head, "I wouldn''t."


    Qiu Tu then asked, "Would you pocket these two Cataclysmic Materials then?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head again, "I wouldn''t."


    Qiu Tu finally asked, "Then, do you think you can successfully create the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    This time, Shen Lingshuang hesitated for a moment. But in the end, she nodded, "I am at least 90% certain."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Then what do I have to worry about?"


    "You may think our relationship is not good, but I find you very trustworthy."


    "So..... I trust you."


    Accompanying those final words, Shen Lingshuang stood frozen in place.


    Possibly having never been trusted so much by anyone, Shen Lingshuang was somewhat at a loss for what to do. She stuttered, "But, but, I, you...."


    After a moment, she took several deep breaths, forcing herself to calm down.


    Then with a complex look in her eyes, she gazed at Qiu Tu, "But Qiu Tu, I can''t guarantee that the potion I make will truly cause a Cataclysm Awakening when you drink it."


    "You know... the awakening rate of the Cataclysmic Potion is less than 20% now; it''s completely a gamble with one''s life."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu heavily patted Shen Lingshuang''s shoulder and said earnestly, "Then I entrust my life to you."


    Time seemed to stop at that moment, as Shen Lingshuang felt the world around her so vast, yet as if it could only fit a single person, Qiu Tu....


    Tomorrow is my daughter''s birthday, so the two chapter updates will probably both be in the evening. Everyone can enjoy reading them together later; it''ll be more satisfying that way.

 Chapter 28 The Dangers of Awakening

    For a moment, she regained her composure and said to Qiu Tu with a determined look, "Don''t worry! I will definitely ensure your successful Cataclysm Awakening!"Having said that, she seemed to have also entered work mode, waving her hand and saying, "Bring paper and pen, I need to write down the other ingredients for the potion."


    "Although none of them are rare or precious herbs, they still require some time to prepare."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer in the upper left corner [46:35:17], then asked, "Is a day and a half enough time?"


    Shen Lingshuang thought for a moment, "It shouldn''t be a problem."


    Qiu Tu was relieved.


    So, Qiu Tu fetched some paper and a pen, and Shen Lingshuang quickly wrote down what was needed for the Cataclysmic Potion and the equipment. Qiu Tu carefully folded the note and put it in his pocket, ready to contact Eagle, Ah-Kun, and the others to take care of this matter.


    However, after seeing Qiu Tu put away the note, Shen Lingshuang hesitated for a moment before speaking up, "Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked up at her.


    Shen Lingshuang said, "Actually... I have some things about the Cataclysmic Potion that I want to discuss with you."


    "I think you should be aware of them beforehand."


    Shen Lingshuang always appeared to Qiu Tu as carefree and lawless. Now that she was suddenly so serious, Qiu Tu knew what she was about to say must be very important.


    Indeed, Shen Lingshuang began to speak slowly,


    "From the birth of the first Cataclysmic Potion and the first Cataclysmic, it has now been a full 13 years."


    "Research on the Cataclysmic Potion and Cataclysmics by the various Sanctuaries has continued uninterrupted."


    "But the more research is done, the more Sanctuaries realize there are significant problems with Cataclysm Awakening."


    Pausing, she asked, "You still remember the six Cataclysmic pathways I told you about, don''t you?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "I remember. Destruction, Life, Mystery, Immortality, Order, and Chaos."


    Shen Lingshuang nodded and then said, "Yes. But do you know why these pathways are named after these particular words?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head.


    Shen Lingshuang explained, "Because these are the paths that the six pathways follow, and they are also their biggest issue."


    Fearing that her explanation might not be clear enough, Shen Lingshuang gave an example, "If you are a Cataclysmic of the Destruction pathway, then all of your actions must align closely with ''Destruction''."


    "The more you ''Destroy'', the faster your strength will progress."


    "Of course, what you ''Destroy'' is for you to decide."


    "Some people choose to destroy ''Life'', others ''Food'', and some ''Peace''..."


    "Corresponding sub-pathways include ''Slaughter,'' ''Gluttony,'' ''War''..."


    "If it ended there, it might not matter so much. But there is a very terrifying rule on the Cataclysmic pathways."


    "That is¡ªif you only follow your path, your strength will improve, but if you betray or stop your path, then your strength will also start to decline rapidly."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang''s gaze revealed a deep concern,


    "It is under this sort of pressure that many Cataclysmics become increasingly extreme. Their minds even start to deviate from normal, turning completely insane..."


    "Now many speculate that there is a problem with the Cataclysmic Potion itself, or that perhaps humans must undergo Cataclysm Awakening on their own, rather than stealing the cataclysmic powers of other beings."


    "So... the offspring of the higher-ups in the Sanctuary mostly don''t undergo Cataclysm Awakening. They are just ordinary people."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu was silent for two seconds, and then asked, "Then what about the high-ups of the Sanctuary themselves?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes were filled with a sorrow so dense it was almost tangible, "They have no choice."


    "In the face of the great Cataclysm, in the face of the life-and-death situation of our race, someone must carry the heavy burden and forge ahead."


    Qiu Tu fell silent.


    Shen Lingshuang looked at him and then said, "That''s why I hope you will consider it carefully."


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu took a few deep breaths, vigorously rubbed his face, and then said with a smile, "No need to think about it anymore, I will definitely walk this path."


    Shen Lingshuang looked at him, puzzled, "Why?"


    "If you said you didn''t know the dangers of this road, I could understand your choice."


    "But you clearly know how dangerous this road is, why do you still want to continue down it?"


    She said, "You should know about the dispute over the path of human ''Cataclysm Awakening'' in the Sanctuary, right?"


    "Ever since the ''Cataclysmic Potion'' was researched, the faction advocating for ''stealing mystical powers from other life forms'' has been dominant."


    "However, with more and more people losing control after using the ''Cataclysmic Potion'' over the years."


    "Now inside the Sanctuary, the voices of the faction that believes in ''relying on the natural birth of a new mankind through generations of human reproduction, who inherently possess this power'' are getting louder and louder."


    "You don''t have to..."


    Qiu Tu, however, waved his hand with a smile and cut off her words, "Even if a new mankind is indeed born in the future, that won''t be me, nor you. Am I right?"


    "This is a chaotic era where it''s every man for himself. If you''re not on the dining table, you''re on the menu." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I have seen the qualifications to sit at the dining table and don''t want to give up due to my own cowardice, to be slaughtered like pigs and sheep."


    "I''d rather have a splendid and illustrious life. Even if it''s very short..."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, and then continued softly,


    "And besides, although I don''t know what dangers humanity has encountered that require the leaders of the Sanctuary to become Cataclysmics and bear the heavy burden."


    "But if they can sacrifice themselves for the future of our race, then I can too. I think... I want to walk with them."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu stood up and left the courtyard, leaving behind a dashing and resolute silhouette for Shen Lingshuang...


    Shen Lingshuang stared blankly at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure without snapping back to reality for a long time...


    [45:02:01 (Cataclysmic Potion can be produced)]


    ...


    After leaving the courtyard, Qiu Tu gave a few instructions to the rotating scouts and maid at the courtyard entrance, asking them to satisfy Shen Lingshuang''s reasonable requests as much as possible during the time they guarded her.


    Having interacted with this girl for two days, Qiu Tu had confirmed Crisis Intuition''s assessment of her as "having a kind heart."


    She was like a cactus that had grown wildly in the apocalypse, thorny on the outside but always maintaining a pure heart at her core.


    So within his own authority, Qiu Tu still hoped to make her life as good as possible.


    Yep... And it had nothing to do with her Speaker father.


    ¡ªDuring today''s conversation, Shen Lingshuang had revealed too much information that only the offspring of the high ranks of the Sanctuary would know.


    So even if she wasn''t the daughter of Shen Yuzhou, the Deputy Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Third Sanctuary, her background must be extraordinary...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu left the small courtyard where Shen Lingshuang was being held and headed towards his own residence.


    But just halfway there, he received a communication from Fang Ming.


    The content was brief, with just one piece of news... the reinforcements Qiu Tu had applied for in his report this afternoon had arrived...

 Chapter 29 Establishing Authority!

    It has to be said, when Qiu Tu learned this piece of news from Fang Ming''s mouth, he was somewhat surprised.He had considered the possibility that Yan Chen might agree, but he never expected her agreement to come so swiftly, nor did he expect Jia Shu to carry out the orders so quickly.


    Reflecting on the time elapsed from when he requested reinforcements to when they arrived, it was a mere four hours. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This indicated that Yan Chen had hardly hesitated after receiving the report before approving his request, and Jia Shu had caused no delays.


    ''It''s good news... This means that in Yan Chen''s eyes, I am becoming more and more important...''


    ''However...'' As this thought crossed his mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but speculate, ''Given Yan Chen''s character, there must definitely be a catch with this reinforcement, right?''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu leisurely returned to the courtyard where he was staying.


    Indeed, upon arriving at the courtyard, Qiu Tu discovered a team of Political Department Investigators in black uniforms resting inside.


    And the entrance to the courtyard, which had been rather quiet these past couple of days, today saw several additional servants from the Qin Family Mansion interior.


    They peered into the courtyard from time to time, clearly there to observe and gather intelligence.


    Witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh wryly to himself.


    It seems the first pitfall had arrived: Yan Chen actually hadn''t sent the Political Department Investigators in secret but let them enter the Qin Family Mansion openly?


    What is the Political Department for?


    It''s a secret branch responsible mainly for espionage, counter-espionage, and internal supervision.


    Such a sensitive department always acts with consideration for their impact and keeps a low profile.


    Now, a team of Political Department Investigators entering the Qin Family Mansion openly will probably soon stir up a storm throughout the city.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu stepped into the courtyard.


    When Fang Ming, who was receiving the reinforcements, saw Qiu Tu, he hastily greeted him, "Agent Qiu."


    After the greeting, he introduced Qiu Tu to the two Political Department Investigators beside him, "This is our Security Team Leader, Agent Qiu."


    Having said this, he led the two men forward.


    As the two men approached, Qiu Tu''s gaze also fell on their epaulettes.


    One of the men had two golden flowers pinned on his epaulette, while the other had three, just like Qiu Tu.


    That meant he, like Qiu Tu, was a First Level Detective of the Political Department, a squad leader.


    Indeed, when Fang Ming introduced them to Qiu Tu, he particularly emphasized this point, "Agent Qiu, these two are Investigators Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng."


    "They are the leaders and deputy leaders of this reinforcement squad."


    At this point, Fang Ming gave Qiu Tu a meaningful look, clearly indicating that there was an issue here.


    Qiu Tu kept his composure, but inwardly he was almost amused to the point of laughing by Yan Chen:


    He had requested just one squad of Political Department Investigators, yet a full squad had been sent over, with even their squad leader included.


    He was of the same rank as this Squad Leader Cao Dabiao, whose seniority was greater than his and who was more familiar with the team members. Without displaying some skill, he could be sidelined within minutes. How then could he control this squad and cultivate his own power base?


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu glanced at Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng with a profound look.


    Cao Dabiao was a man in his thirties with a round face, a beard around his jaw, and squinting eyes that betrayed ruthlessness and greed.


    With just one glance, Qiu Tu knew this man was an unruly rascal who would not easily take orders.


    As for Chen Feng, he was a young man in his twenties, with sharp and well-defined features that seemed a bit difficult to deal with, and he appeared somewhat indifferent when he saw Qiu Tu.


    It seems... he''s a thorn too, isn''t he?


    Having considered this, Qiu Tu gained a general understanding of the "test" Yan Chen and Jia Shu had set up for him.


    However... such a trivial difficulty didn''t even register in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    With that thought, he abruptly stood straight and bellowed, "Assemble!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s full-throated command, the Political Department Investigators who had been resting in twos and threes were suddenly startled.


    Earlier, Fang Ming had already introduced them to Qiu Tu''s identity, so upon hearing his call to assemble, they hurriedly ran over and formed up.


    Even if Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng harbored other ulterior motives at this moment, seeing all the team members assembling, they too could only stand before Qiu Tu.


    After seizing the initiative, Qiu Tu swept his gaze sharply across everyone, and then, pointing at his own epaulettes, he introduced himself, "I am Qiu Tu from the Political Department, a First Level Detective! I am the captain of this Security Team, and also the commanding officer of all of you!"


    "Now, attention~~~!"


    As Qiu Tu finished stating his identity and the hierarchy of superior and subordinate was established, everyone''s compliance visibly increased, and they immediately straightened their backs, standing upright.


    Even the old fox, Big Biao, lazily straightened up.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes swept across all the members and he commanded, "Salute!"


    Following Qiu Tu''s cue, a dozen right hands lifted in unison!


    Qiu Tu also stood straight and returned the salute.


    Then he lowered his hand, looked at Cao Dabiao, and said, "Cao Dabiao, step out!"


    Qiu Tu and Cao Dabiao were of the same rank, and Qiu Tu''s seniority was slightly less, so theoretically, he couldn''t command Cao Dabiao.


    But because Qiu Tu''s position included the role of Security Team Captain and the entire squad had just followed his orders, even if he felt somewhat aggrieved, he had no choice but to cooperate.


    Now that Qiu Tu had singled him out with a command, his discomfort intensified. But since he had followed the previous commands and a pattern had been established, he could only reluctantly step forward and said perfunctorily, "Agent Qiu, what instructions do you have?"


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t give him the slightest face, and directly snapped, "Address me as your commanding officer!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s uncompromising words, Cao Dabiao felt a burning sensation on his face. He could almost feel the awkward stares from his team members behind him without even looking back.


    He knew Qiu Tu was completely undermining his authority in the squad and forcibly establishing the concept of hierarchy in front of everyone.


    So, gritting his teeth and glaring at Qiu Tu, he was tempted to challenge Qiu Tu to a contest of wills and push back against his command.


    But just at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    With a cold gaze, he sternly shouted at Cao Dabiao, "What? Are you resisting a superior''s command?!"


    In that instant, Cao Dabiao felt utterly embarrassed.


    In a disciplined force, defying orders is an extremely serious matter¡ªeven to the extent of being shot on the spot during wartime!


    Furthermore, what was more important was that he noticed Qiu Tu''s hand had already moved toward the gun holster on his back.


    ''Does he truly intend to kill me?''


    ''How dare he?!''


    ''Has he gone mad? To shoot a First Level Detective over a formality? He wouldn''t survive the repercussions either!''


    Although he couldn''t believe in his heart that Qiu Tu would do such a thing, the dark intensity in Qiu Tu''s eyes forced him to yield at that moment due to the overwhelming sense of danger.


    ''There''s no point in reasoning with a madman!''


    ''As long as I live, I can seek revenge later!''


    With that thought, he lowered his head and shouted loudly, "Yes, commanding officer!"


    Qiu Tu''s hand relaxed from the gun holster, and he nodded in satisfaction, "Good!"


    "Now, I have a mission to assign to you!"

 Chapter 30 Power

    ```After one''s spine is forcibly broken, it becomes very hard for them to hold their head up high again.


    So, when Cao Dabiao showed weakness, he had already reached a point of reckless abandon.


    He bellowed, "Please give your orders, sir!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu let out a slight smile,


    "Now, I command you to leave the Qin Family with two familiar agents. In half an hour, I will contact you and give you further instructions."


    "Huh?" Possibly not expecting such an order from Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao looked at Qiu Tu with a confused expression.


    But now, the entire scene was under Qiu Tu''s control, and his prestige and confidence had just been thoroughly crushed, so he didn''t dare to voice any objections.


    Thus, like a zombie, he picked out two of his confidants from the ranks and, still dazed, led them away from the Qin Family, ready to receive Qiu Tu''s next command in half an hour.


    In this manner, they left the Qin Family Mansion.


    Standing at the entrance of the Qin Family Mansion, facing the extensive city roads that branched out in all directions, Cao Dabiao was bewildered for a few seconds before he suddenly came to his senses!


    Damn it! Was I just stripped of my "military power"?!


    Thinking of his squad, now completely out of his control, a horde of unspeakable emotions surged wildly in Cao Dabiao''s heart!


    However, the next second, when he saw the two confidants by his side, he exclaimed again, "Damn it!"


    Shit! Did I just take my confidants with me?


    Doesn''t that mean I don''t even have anyone to pass on messages or give remote orders??


    With this realization, Cao Dabiao felt an icy chill throughout his body.


    He thought back to Qiu Tu''s series of actions just now: preemptive strike¡ªherd mentality¡ªoverwhelming authority¡ªintimidation¡ªrelocation. A combination of moves that left him out of the game before he even got into the groove.


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao only felt an ominous chill.


    He was tempted to go back and challenge Qiu Tu again, but Qiu Tu''s recent tactical combination had completely sapped his courage.


    Being not of a tough disposition to begin with, after much hesitation, he chose to give up.


    ''Forget it, he''s a tough nut to crack... better not provoke him.''


    ''Might as well consider it a vacation.''


    ''After all, I''ve got two confidants with me. Worst comes to worst, after this mission is over, I''ll just gift something nice to the superior officers and get transferred to another squad...''


    Thinking this way, Cao Dabiao wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and waved to his two confidants, saying generously, "Let''s go, off to have some barbecue. It''s on me."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Inside the barracks of the Security Team, Qiu Tu looked at Chen Feng and the remaining nine agents with satisfaction and nodded approvingly.


    After kicking out Cao Dabiao, who was of equal rank to him, all the agents present were now lower in both position and rank, completely eliminating the possibility of challenging his authority.


    However, while this squad appeared outwardly obedient to him, to truly win their allegiance required some additional methods...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu turned to Fang Ming and asked, "Agent Fang, has the funding I applied for from the Bureau Chief come through?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the bewildered Fang Ming at his side snapped back to reality.


    The shock of what had happened in those few short minutes was greater than the teachings of his family over several years.


    ```


    Upon witnessing how Qiu Tu dispatched Cao Dabiao with just a few swift moves, a phrase his father once taught him echoed through his mind:


    "The essence of power isn''t the ability to do what you want, but the ability to make others do what they don''t want to do."


    In that instant, he felt as if he truly comprehended what this sentence meant. And... it was his first real encounter with Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, when he heard Qiu Tu''s inquiry, he snapped back to reality, gave Qiu Tu a deep look, and then respectfully responded, "Reporting to the officer, we have arrived."


    Having said that, he stood up to retrieve a small box bearing the Investigation Bureau''s insignia from the room and presented it to Qiu Tu with both hands.


    Qiu Tu received the box, opened it to inspect the contents, and found it brimming with shiny Silver Yuan.


    He grabbed a handful¡ªthirty to forty coins¡ªand threw them directly at all the agents.


    Seeing the scattering Silver Yuan, the agents'' eyes reddened. Their reflex was to reach out and collect them.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu let out a thunderous shout, "Don''t catch it!"


    "You are agents! A disciplined force! If the officer hasn''t told you to move, I''ll see who dares!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the ten agents present swayed slightly, but ultimately all stood still. However, from their fervent gazes, one could tell their desire had not lessened at all.


    After all, in the Planning Area, Silver Yuan had substantial purchasing power.


    A single Silver Yuan could buy 80 pounds of top-quality rice, 10 to 20 pounds of meat, or 30 feet of cotton fabric. Its purchasing power was roughly equivalent to 800 of Qiu Tu''s former world''s currency. It was generally not used in transactions among the lower class.


    So, for the agents whose monthly salary was only "three Silver Yuan," these thirty to forty coins truly represented a fortune.


    Seeing his authority and prohibitions respected, Qiu Tu nodded with satisfaction.


    He returned the small box to Fang Ming, then paced in front of the ten agents. Only then did he speak under the intense gazes of the crowd, "You are all my subordinates. As long as you follow me and work hard! What are promotions? What is Silver Yuan? You will have it all!" sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After finishing, Qiu Tu gestured with his hand, "Now, Chen Feng takes five coins, everyone else takes three, and the rest will be picked up and returned to me!"


    "Chen Feng supervises!"


    "Dismissed!"


    Accompanying Qiu Tu''s voice, the agents eagerly bent down to pick up Silver Yuan from the ground.


    But owing to Qiu Tu''s prior order, they did not scramble for it and tacitly picked up only the coins nearest them.


    Soon, each agent held three Silver Yuan in their hands, and the extras were handed over to Chen Feng, who then presented them all to Qiu Tu.


    After placing the Silver Yuan in Qiu Tu''s hands, Chen Feng looked at him with complexity in his eyes and sincerely expressed, "Officer, you, you are... very impressive."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu scanned the other agents, who now regarded him with a mix of awe and eagerness.


    Qiu Tu knew that these ten individuals were now reliable...


    "In name, power comes from above, but in substance, it derives from below."


    .....


    After calling the ten Political Department Investigators to the room, Qiu Tu first divided them into pairs, then took out several clues copied from Master Qin Si''s booklet, instructing them to follow up on the information.


    Soon, the five teams of Political Department Investigators were assembled into squads and set off in sequence.


    Before they left, Qiu Tu made sure to exchange communicators'' numbers with them, demanding immediate reports on any developments without causing alarm.


    Perhaps motivated by the combination of reward and authority exercised earlier, all five teams cooperated fully.


    After completing all these arrangements, Qiu Tu left the room and, watching the Political Department Investigators file out, took out his communicator and dialed Cao Dabiao''s number....

 Chapter 31 The Drunken Qin Shuman

    A moment later, the communication connected.Qiu Tu didn''t beat around the bush and simply said, "Captain Cao, due to an accident, your task has been temporarily canceled. Return to the Qin Family''s quarters now, I have new instructions for you."


    Once he finished speaking, Qiu Tu directly hung up the communication.


    Meanwhile, Cao Dabiao, who had just started drinking with his two confidants and enjoying barbecue, listened to the "beep beep beep" coming from the handset in a dumbfounded manner. After a moment, he violently slammed the skewer he was holding onto the table and cursed angrily, "Damn it! That bastard is really pushing it too far!"


    "It''s like he''s playing me for a fool!"


    But that''s how it is in a disciplined force, where rank and hierarchy crush people. No matter how unwilling he was in his heart, if he still wanted to carry on working in the Investigation Bureau, he had no choice but to suppress his displeasure and obey.


    So, with a face ashen, he settled the bill and hurried back to the courtyard with his two confidants.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t toying with him, rather... it was for insurance.


    With the squad''s morale just settling, Qiu Tu wouldn''t allow any risks: so when the squad was by Qiu Tu''s side, Cao Dabiao had to be pushed to the outside; when the squad dispersed to carry out tasks, Cao Dabiao had to come back and stay by Qiu Tu''s side.


    This way, the possibility of Cao Dabiao colluding and undermining him could be maximized.


    By now, the trap that Yan Chen had dug was thoroughly stepped over by him.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gazed at the courtyard entrance, silently contemplating: but even though this trap was stepped over, there was another pit lying in front of him.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind couldn''t help but fly to the matter of the Political Department Investigator making a big show of force entering the Qin Family.


    His brain worked at lightning speed, pondering countermeasures.


    A moment later, his heart subtly shifted, feeling... although the matter was a bit tricky, could it actually be used to his advantage?


    He had originally requested reinforcements to secretly investigate the Qin Family; now that a secret investigation was no longer possible, why not take the opportunity to probe a bit?


    Perhaps... someone would become restless and reveal their flaws?


    For example, that person he was most interested in...?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu felt he had a clear plan in mind.


    He didn''t wait for Cao Dabiao to come back, instead, he stepped out of the courtyard.


    Since it was rest time, some of the Special Service Department''s detectives were chatting and exercising in the courtyard.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, they were visibly more respectful than they had been two days before, standing up to salutate and greet him, "Good day, Sir!" "Good day, Sir!"


    Qiu Tu waved back warmly and exchanged a few caring words.


    Seeing their enthusiastic demeanor, Qiu Tu knew that what he had done today¡ªfirmly dealing with the Political Department squad and the fact that he gave each person three Silver Yuan¡ªhad already spread.


    People are attracted to benefit and avoid harm, and they yearn for those who can offer them greater benefits.


    However... Qiu Tu was very clear about his own position. Though he was now the Captain of the Security Team, it was a temporary position and not meant to last.


    His actual rank was just that of a First Level Detective in the Political Department, at most only qualified to command a Political Department squad.


    This meant that once the Security Team disbanded, his control over the Special Service Department squad would not be justified.


    Furthermore, he couldn''t even transfer people from this squad to his side¡ªmoving personnel across two powerful departments required too much energy.


    Therefore, he would provide tangible benefits to the Political Department squad but would only curry favor with the Special Service Department squad, leaving a sense of goodwill...


    Leaving the residence, Qiu Tu went to the separate courtyard where the person he was most interested in¡ªQin Shuman¡ªlived.


    Miss Shuman''s public identity was that of a goddaughter acknowledged by the Lady of the Qin Family Head, and on top of that, since she was Yan Chen''s mistress, she owned a separate courtyard within the Qin Family''s Main Residence.


    The courtyard had few rooms; apart from the main hall, the other chambers had all been transformed into entertainment rooms such as an audio-visual room, an art studio, a bar, etc.


    When Qiu Tu found Miss Shuman, she was alone in the little bar of the courtyard, drinking by herself.


    Apparently not expecting Qiu Tu''s late-night visit, she was without any disguise, unceremoniously slumped over the bar counter, her eyes blurred as she swayed a clear, square-shaped glass.


    Under the colorful lights, her deep red dress was as enchanting as fire, stark against her skin as pale and delicate as jade.


    It was Qiu Tu''s first time seeing her completely without any pretense, and for a moment, he was spellbound.


    But soon, he regained his composure and, from the alluring yet melancholic look in Miss Shuman''s eyes, he sensed that something was amiss....


    This woman''s heart seemed to be filled with stories. This did not correspond with her identity as a "Cloned Female Body"....


    ''It seems I am destined to have a gain tonight...''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu gestured to stop the maid from saluting and walked over, taking a seat beside Miss Shuman.


    Feeling someone beside her, Miss Shuman glanced over with hazy eyes and, upon seeing Qiu Tu, she suddenly laughed.


    "Qiu... Tu~~~"


    Her voice stretched out, carrying a hint of seduction, then she lazily wrapped an arm around Qiu Tu''s neck, slurred and said, "Why are you here? Come on, have a drink with me!"


    After speaking, she snapped her fingers at the maid, "Give him a ''Fallen Night''."


    The maid glanced at Qiu Tu, and upon seeing his nod, she took out a bottle that looked quite premium and poured a glass of amber-colored liquor for Qiu Tu.


    Once the liquor was served, Qiu Tu waved the maid off, instructing, "You can go now." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes," the maid bowed slightly and left the bar, closing the door behind her and waiting outside.


    After the maid left, Qiu Tu tasted the liquor, then asked softly, "What''s the matter with you?"


    Miss Shuman''s slender fingers caressed the crystal-clear glass, she tilted her head back to down the amber liquid in one gulp and then said, tipsily, "Nothing~ I''m just... happy! Extremely happy!"


    As she spoke, she forced the corners of her mouth into a fake smile.


    Qiu Tu just watched her, simply watched her.


    After a while, he smiled and clinked his glass against hers, downing the drink in his glass all at once.


    Having finished his drink, Qiu Tu picked up the exquisite bottle from the table and poured another round of "Fallen Night" for both of them, gesturing towards Miss Shuman.


    This time, Miss Shuman seemed a bit more composed. She gently swirled the liquor in her glass, and then with a bit of a distant look, she posed, "Qiu Tu~~ do you think in this world there could be people who suddenly become someone else?"


    Startled by her words, Qiu Tu pretended not to understand and replied, "I''m not quite following you. Do you mean...."


    Miss Shuman placed her index finger on Qiu Tu''s lips and leaned her beautiful face closer to his, then said softly with blurred vision, "Like... for example... you."


    "...Don''t you feel like you''ve become a different person?"


    Qiu Tu laughed "haha" twice, taking a small sip from his glass, "After experiencing major events, a person''s character can indeed undergo significant changes."


    He continued, countering, "As for Miss Shuman, it seems like you''ve remained quite the same."


    He paused, then added with a suggestive tone, "Except... tonight."

 Chapter 32 Qin Shuman Blunders

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed so hard she was falling backwards and forwards. She then reached out to hook her fingers under Qiu Tu''s chin, looking at him with an alluring yet dangerous gaze, and breathed out softly, "Well, Agent Qiu really doesn''t know me too well, does he."Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly as he pondered the meaning behind Qin Shuman''s words. He always felt that Qin Shuman seemed to have revealed a very important piece of information, but he couldn''t quite make sense of it at the moment.


    At this time, however, Qin Shuman didn''t give Qiu Tu more time to think.


    She seemed to sense something amiss and poured herself a glass of cold water.


    With the cold water down, her eyes cleared slightly, and the dangerous aura about her abated considerably.


    Then she slowly reverted to her usual innocent demeanor, "By the way, what brings you here so late? Is there something you need?"


    After speaking, she looked worriedly at Qiu Tu, "It can''t be that Yan Chen has started trouble again¡­"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept over her, and while taking a sip of alcohol, he said with a deep look in his eyes, "Yes, Yan Chen has stirred up trouble again."


    He said, "Actually, after coming to the Qin Family, I guard by your side during the day, but at night I''ve been going around gathering intelligence."


    "And believe it or not, after these past two days of investigation, I''ve really found some leads."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was momentarily stunned, then propped up her cheek curiously and asked, "What leads?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes were sharp as he said decisively, "I''ve found that the Qin Family might indeed be in collusion with the military and the Anti-Government Army!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s gaze was fixed intently on Qin Shuman. He clearly saw her slender waist suddenly tense up.


    "Oh? Is that so? Have you found any evidence?" Qin Shuman asked indifferently.


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, "I actually found some. So I reported to Yan Chen requesting reinforcements and called in a team of Political Department Investigators to conduct a secret investigation."


    "Who knew that Yan Chen, trying to trip me up, would let that team of investigators enter the Qin Family openly!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pounded the table in frustration, "The Qin Family is not stupid; this is completely startling the snake."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu downcastly took another drink


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman, as if struck by a thought, took a pensive sip of water and asked, "So what do you plan to do now?"


    Qiu Tu continued drinking, "What else can I do? Keep investigating."


    Qin Shuman kept drinking water, "And where do you plan to start?"


    And so the two of them chatted, one drink following another.


    They didn''t know how long they drank or how long they talked¡­


    Just when Qin Shuman was getting a clearer picture of Qiu Tu''s plans. Suddenly! She felt a large hand clamp on her waist.


    That instant, she was startled and quickly turned to look at Qiu Tu.


    Only to find that the previously sober Qiu Tu, perhaps because of the alcohol, was now looking at her with drunken eyes, his gaze containing something untouchable¡­


    She pressed down the hand that was trying to lift the hem of her skirt in a panicked whisper, "Qiu, Qiu Tu, the servants are still outside!"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu''s eyes were drowsy with drink, and his handsome face was flushed with intoxication. He leaned in close to Qin Shuman''s ear and murmured, "Be good... cover your mouth, and no one will know."


    "Besides... I just want to exchange some information with you."


    As he spoke, his breath tickled Qin Shuman''s ear, warm and raising goosebumps¡­


    ....


    .....


    Half an hour later, Qin Shuman, with her waist feeling weak, leaned against the bar, clutching her skirt, her face showing a mix of embarrassment and annoyance as she watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, muttering nonstop, "Bastard, he''s just a complete bastard!"


    As Qiu Tu fastened his belt, his bleary eyes squinting, he pushed open the door and stumbled out of the small bar, his hand inexplicably marked with several deep, crimson bite wounds...


    The waiting maid outside detected nothing amiss; she glanced at Qiu Tu and curtly bowed.


    Qiu Tu nodded at her, then slurred, "Miss Shuman is also drunk and can hardly walk. Help her back to her room to rest."


    "Yes."


    The maid pushed the door and entered the bar, while Qiu Tu wobbled out of Qin Shuman''s courtyard.


    However, the moment he stepped out of the courtyard, his pace gradually steadied and his drunken eyes slowly became sober and deep.


    ''Drinking really does lead to mistakes.''


    ''Regrettably, not for me, but for Qin Shuman...''


    ''She''s been pretending for so long, yet today, she let her guard down a bit too much after drinking...''


    ''Although we''re in the same boat now, there''s still a slight difference in our positions.''


    ''For instance... proving that the Qin Family really colluded with the military and the Anti-government Armed Forces benefits only me, not her.''


    "Because, once I gather enough evidence, I can solidify the lies and betray both her and the Qin Family."


    "Under such circumstances, she isn''t worried about how to keep herself safe after I find the evidence. Instead, she''s concerned about where I''ll start my investigation. This is highly inconsistent with her persona..."


    ''It seems my intuition is correct: there''s indeed something off about her identity.''


    ''Now that the bait has been cast, I just have to wait for the contacts to reveal themselves, and then I''ll know who Qin Shuman is really working for...''


    ''I can also figure out why they''ve been pestering me incessantly...''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu felt the fog that had clouded his vision since his transmigration begin to disperse somewhat, and he could almost make out the outline of the truth...


    ...


    Upon returning to the Security Team''s base, Cao Dabiao had been waiting for quite a while.


    When Cao Dabiao saw Qiu Tu arriving belatedly, he glared at him, his voice almost squeezed out through his teeth, "The officer''s official duties must be very busy. Your subordinate has been waiting here for several hours."


    Qiu Tu didn''t care and didn''t even respond to Cao Dabiao''s remarks.


    He sauntered over and took a seat, then seamlessly shifted the subject, "Brother Biao, how old are you this year?"


    Cao Dabiao couldn''t keep up with Qiu Tu''s erratic line of thought, but he still answered, "35." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu uttered an "Oh," took a sip of tea, then looked up and asked, "I remember there''s no significant Cao family or the head of an organization with the Cao surname in the entire Xinjie City, right?"


    Cao Dabiao''s gaze flickered slightly, he did not reply directly.


    Qiu Tu set his teacup aside and tapped his fingers lightly on the table, "Temporary agents earn a monthly wage of 300 Copper Yuan, Third-Level Detectives get 1 Silver Yuan plus 500 Copper Yuan, Second-Class Investigators 3 Silver Yuan, and First Level Detectives 8 Silver Yuan."


    "Xinjie City has been established for a year, the Political Department has only been in operation for half a year; after deducting daily expenses, how much savings could you have? 30 Silver Yuan?"


    Cao Dabiao opened his mouth as if to say something, but in the end, he closed it again.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu went into the inner room, brought out the box containing the funds for this operation, and placed it on the table, revealing the gleaming Silver Yuan inside.


    He settled back into his seat and spoke leisurely, "I''m 21 years old this year, the same rank as you, with the support from high-ranking Sanctuary officials above and the backing of the Bureau Chief below."


    "Young, wealthy, powerful, and also your superior. What can you possibly gain by going against me?"


    "Even if you do manage to cause me some trouble, once I get promoted in a few months, dealing with you will be a piece of cake, won''t it?"

 Chapter 33 The Fish That Took the Hook

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s gaze flickered ceaselessly as if analyzing whether the information Qiu Tu had divulged was real or fake.Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t rush him; he simply took out a cloth bag, counted out 80 Silver Yuan from the box full of them, and tossed it to Cao Dabiao.


    "Ding ding ding~" As the cloth bag landed in his hands, it discharged a symphony of intoxicating coin clinks.


    Cao Dabiao accepted it blankly, then looked at Qiu Tu in surprise.


    Qiu Tu said, "This is 80 Silver Yuan, yours."


    Feeling the hefty weight in his hands, Cao Dabiao swallowed hard, forcibly suppressing the greed in his heart, then tentatively asked, "Officer, this seems to be operational funds, isn''t it? This...."


    Qiu Tu waved his hand to interrupt him, "As long as I dare let you take it, I can ensure your safety."


    "If I''m not afraid, what are you afraid of?"


    "If the sky falls, won''t I be here to hold it up for you!"


    "Make your choice now. If you are willing to follow me, take the money, and I''ll keep you in mind when it''s time for promotions and wealth!"


    "If you''re unwilling, just put it down, then find a place to stay for a few days. After I complete my mission, you can come back, and I absolutely won''t make things difficult for you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s expression changed rapidly.


    After a moment, as if coming to a realization, he bent over. Grinning up at Qiu Tu, he said obsequiously, "You jest, Officer."


    "Actually, from the first time I met you today, I felt an instant connection, eager to serve before and behind your saddle."


    "It''s just that you seemed to have some misunderstandings about me, not giving me a chance."


    "Now that you are willing to accept me, I couldn''t be happier."


    As he spoke, he tucked the cloth bag into his chest, with an ingratiating smile he said, "From now on, just command me for anything, Officer. I assure you, I will go through fire and water and not shirk from death!"


    Listening to the obsequious words, Qiu Tu looked at him deeply and then burst out laughing, "Haha."


    Cao Dabiao also laughed along, his demeanor resembling that of a fawning dog...


    Half an hour later, Cao Dabiao nodded and bowed as he backed out of the room. Once he turned around, his hand touching the weighty Silver Yuan in his chest, his face brimmed with excitement.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu watched his retreating figure, his eyes filled with amusement...


    See, greed is always the most powerful weapon.


    Without avarice, it would have been difficult to find the opportunity to drag Cao Dabiao and the entire Political Department squad into the mire.


    Now that the entire squad had taken misappropriated public funds, especially with Cao Dabiao taking so much, they were truly tied to the same string of grasshoppers.


    They would be safe while everything went smoothly for me, but if I were to encounter danger... they would have to protect me in turn to save themselves.


    Used properly, these people could achieve some unexpected effects...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out the communicator and dialed Eagle''s number.


    On the communicator, Qiu Tu arranged for Shen Lingshuang to purchase the herbs and ordered him to have Ah-Kun, Monkey, and a few other brothers go to different pharmacies and the black market to buy them in batches.


    After giving instructions on what to pay attention to, Qiu Tu said to Eagle, "Eagle, I''m preparing to transfer you and Ah-Kun to the Political Department to help me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Eagle replied steadily, "Alright, Brother Tu. Then I''ll go to the Political Department to submit my report tomorrow and prepare for the assessment."


    Qiu Tu said, "Hmm, but don''t put my name as your recommender."


    Eagle asked, "Then whose name should I write?"


    Qiu Tu, "Cao Dabiao."


    "I''ll give you his contact information in a bit; you get in touch with him."


    "Okay," Eagle responded, then thoughtfully added, "Brother Ted received a notification from the Special Service Department today and has gone for the assessment."


    "I heard that apart from failing in the shooting, he got grade As in all the other subjects. There won''t be any problem with him passing the assessment."


    This was a matter agreed upon by Fang Ming and Qiu Tu, so Qiu Tu merely responded with a noncommittal "Hmm" and did not offer any further comment....


    With that, the communication was ended, and Qiu Tu sat on a chair, quietly gazing at the night outside for a while.


    He felt like he was a frail ghost face spider in the Amazon Rainforest, silently weaving his own dark, extensive web that sprawled across the entire Xinjie City, then patiently waiting for the moment to hunt....


    ----


    [5 days (the latest deadline to obtain evidence against the Qin Family)]


    [31:12:11 (time remaining to create the Cataclysmic Potion)]


    The night passed uneventfully.


    The next day, before Qiu Tu could receive contact from the forces behind Qin Shuman, another fish took the bait first.


    "Fourth Master? I didn''t expect you would communicate with me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si chuckled over the communicator, "Hahaha. Agent Qiu, you know I don''t visit without good reason."


    "Oh?" Upon hearing Fourth Master''s words, Qiu Tu, while sipping tea, casually asked, "What matter brought me to Fourth Master''s mind?"


    Master Qin Si said, "It''s still about my good-for-nothing Second Brother, of course."


    Continuing, Master Qin Si said, "Tonight, I would like to invite Agent Qiu to watch a play."


    Qiu Tu, "A play?"


    Master Qin Si affirmed, "Yes, a play."


    "To let you witness firsthand my Second Brother''s confidant getting in contact with the anti-government organization."


    At Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu paused.


    His interest piqued, he asked, "Actually, Fourth Master, more than Director Qin colluding with the anti-government organization, I''m curious about... why you are targeting Director Qin so specifically."


    "What benefit would Director Qin''s fall have for you?"


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si declared unequivocally, "No benefit!"


    He expressed a sort of exasperation, saying, "But I just can''t stand by and watch him destroy the family business my father worked so hard to build from scratch!"


    With a hint of nostalgia, he continued, "Back in the day, my father started with nothing, battled through hardships, and established the vast Qin family wealth! Besides my grandfather''s 100 jin of gold, a tech company, and a few dozen trustworthy lieutenants, he relied on no one!"


    "So I will not allow anyone to destroy what he spent his lifetime building!"


    Qiu Tu:....


    "Understood."


    Master Qin Si grunted, then went on, "That''s why, when I found out what my Second Brother had done, I knew only by condemning my own kin could I save the Qin family from ruin." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The reason I left that document last time was because I wanted to see if you, Agent Qiu, truly dared to investigate this matter."


    "And yesterday, when you deployed a team of Political Department Investigators to start looking into it, you convinced me of your sincerity, so I am also willing to show you even more of mine."


    After listening to Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment, then said, "Okay, then I''ll trouble Fourth Master to send the address and time to my communicator."


    Master Qin Si laughed heartily a few times and then ended the communication.


    Sure enough, before long, Qiu Tu''s communicator received an address from an unfamiliar number: Zhizhen Grand Hotel, Room 108, 8 p.m.


    "Zhizhen Grand Hotel?"


    Murmuring the name, before Qiu Tu could make a decision, his communicator rang again the very next second.


    This time too, it was a message from an unfamiliar number.

 Chapter 34 Getting on the Bandits Ship

    ```After glancing at the unfamiliar number, Qiu Tu clicked on the message.


    It contained only a brief sentence, "Agent Qiu, I have information you might be interested in. If you wish to cooperate, please come to Milan Grand Hotel at 8 p.m. tonight for a talk."


    Seeing this message, Qiu Tu stroked his chin and silently pondered.


    Which fish had taken the bait this time?


    City Hall? The military? The other branches of the Qin Family? Or perhaps an anti-government organization?


    Moreover, could this mysterious number have a connection to Qin Shuman? Or was it just an outsider?


    Because of the limited information, Qiu Tu could not determine it for the time being.


    However... what he could be sure of was that he now faced an intriguing choice:


    Master Qin Si or the mysterious person?


    Zhizhen Grand Hotel or Milan Grand Hotel?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze became unfathomable.....


    ...


    ....


    Time passed by the minute and second, and soon, several hours had flown by.


    7 p.m.


    At the entrance of Zhizhen Grand Hotel.


    Dressed in casual clothes and flanked by two confidants, Cao Dabiao swaggered in with a cigarette in his mouth.


    Seeing the trio, the tall receptionist hurried forward with a smile, bowed, and asked, "Hello, gentlemen, do you have a reservation?"


    With the cigarette in his mouth, Cao Dabiao arrogantly nodded, "Room 107."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, the receptionist said with a beaming smile, "Please wait a moment."


    After saying that, she took out the reservation list, checked it, and asked, "May I know if you are Mr. Cao?"


    Cao Dabiao nodded.


    The receptionist immediately smiled and gestured, "This way please," said, and then turned to lead the way.


    Following the receptionist, Cao Dabiao and his two confidants surreptitiously surveyed the layout of Zhizhen Grand Hotel with the corners of their eyes.


    They quickly arrived at the private room and entered.


    After looking around the interior decorations of the room, Cao Dabiao satisfiedly pulled out a 100-value Copper Yuan from his chest and handed it to the receptionist.


    The receptionist''s eyes lit up, and she excitedly stretched out her hand to catch it, but as Cao Dabiao caught a glimpse of the Copper Yuan in his hand, he quickly retracted it and took out a 10-value one to give to the receptionist instead.


    The receptionist''s smile vanished from her face; she accepted the money coolly, gave a polite bow to Cao Dabiao, and walked away, swaying her hips.


    Once the receptionist had left the room, Cao Dabiao and his men dropped their fa?ade.


    The two confidants approached Cao Dabiao and asked quietly, "Brother Biao, what are we doing here?"


    With no outsiders present, Cao Dabiao no longer acted so carelessly. He gestured towards the open door.


    One confidant skillfully went to close the door, and then Cao Dabiao said in a low voice, "We are here for a mission."


    He checked his watch and whispered, "At 8 o''clock, there will be a meeting between two parties in the next private room."


    "Our goal is to eavesdrop and capture images of both sides."


    After saying that, he signaled to the two confidants. They immediately understood, taking out several small devices from their clothes.


    Cao Dabiao put his arms around their necks and quietly arranged, "Later, Old Liu will go to the restroom. On his way back, he''ll ''accidentally'' enter the wrong room and install the bug next door."


    "Old Qi will go to the corridor to smoke. Once he sees the targets entering the private room, he''ll try to take photos with his camera."


    "If he can''t find the opportunity, then he must memorize the targets'' appearances well, so we can reconstruct their faces later."


    ```


    The two confidants nodded and took their orders.


    However, after taking the orders, Little Liu, who was sitting next to Cao Dabiao, suddenly realized something. Curiously, he asked, "So Brother Biao, what are you going to do?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao slapped him on the head and said irritably, "Are you stupid? Of course, I have to carry out the most arduous task¡ªordering the dishes!"


    After saying that, he grumbled, "I was called back halfway through dinner last night and starved for most of the night. Today I''m on official duty, so I must make up for it!"


    "Since Qiu Tu is paying, I might as well rip him off."


    Little Liu covered his head, his face a picture of realization.


    Meanwhile, Little Qi also asked curiously on the side, "By the way, Brother Biao, are we really going to follow Qiu Tu from now on?"


    At Little Qi''s question, Cao Dabiao''s expression began to change¡ªhe remembered a little episode from this afternoon.


    This afternoon, as he was happily counting his Silver Yuan, he suddenly received communication from a stranger.


    The person claimed to be one of Qiu Tu''s men, prepared to join the Political Department on Qiu Tu''s orders, and needed Cao Dabiao to give a recommendation.


    Hearing the introduction, Cao Dabiao''s first reaction was to doubt that the person was a scammer.


    But it quickly dawned on him: In the newly established Xinjie City, only public officials and some extremely wealthy or influential people had access to communicators.


    Scammers couldn''t get their hands on such devices.


    Moreover... not only did the person know his communicator number, but they also accurately addressed him by his name and department, which really didn''t seem like fraud.


    So, he went to Qiu Tu in a fog to confirm it.


    The scene from that time was still vivid in Cao Dabiao''s memory, even several hours later.


    When Cao Dabiao met Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu was sitting at a desk copying a document.


    After listening to Cao Dabiao''s account, Qiu Tu didn''t even lift his head to carelessly respond, "They''re my people, and I plan to have them join the Political Department. Help me with the recommendation."


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao''s expression really kept changing.


    He wanted to argue, like "If they''re your people, why don''t you recommend them?" or "Why do I have to be the one to recommend?"


    But he just accepted Qiu Tu''s money yesterday and had been under Qiu Tu''s control all this time, and it seemed he had no grounds to refuse, both emotionally and rationally.


    Thus, he could only put on a sham smile and get the task done.


    However, after the task was completed, Cao Dabiao felt more and more uneasy about it.


    He felt as if Qiu Tu had tied him to a crooked ship.


    The problem with the task wasn''t whether to do it, but how to do it! Qiu Tu had "executed before reporting," forcing him to get it done!


    He didn''t refuse this time, but would Qiu Tu continue to "execute before reporting" and force him to do other things in the future?


    One or two incidents were no big deal, but if this continued indefinitely, wouldn''t he become completely subservient to Qiu Tu?


    Realizing all of this, Cao Dabiao felt a cold sweat breaking out.


    He wanted to jump ship and stop playing along with Qiu Tu, but he couldn''t bear to do so.


    After all, he had just done a favor for Qiu Tu today and hadn''t yet reaped the benefits. If he were to fall out now, not only would his efforts have been in vain, but he would also have to face Qiu Tu''s wrath, and he might even have to return the 80 Silver Yuan!


    How could he be willing to let that happen!


    Humans are creatures that can comfort themselves. So after much deliberation, Cao Dabiao decided to wait and see...


    He thought: Maybe Qiu Tu wouldn''t do such things in the future? Maybe Qiu Tu could offer him more benefits...?


    Therefore, facing the question of his confidant, his answer was ambiguous, "Hmm... Let''s follow Qiu Tu for a bit, and we''ll see how it goes..."


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Cao Dabiao was investigating at the Zhizhen Grand Hotel. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu had also come to the Milan Grand Hotel alone¡­

 Chapter 35 Security Department!

    Xinjie City was a Planning Area that had just been developed near the Eighth Sanctuary in the past two years.Material life was scarce, and living conditions were poor, with many basic infrastructures being cleaned up and rebuilt.


    However, several large hotels and restaurants had been established early on. After all, no matter how dire the life of the lower tiers was, the upper echelons still needed to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves...


    Walking into the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu felt like he had traveled through time and space.


    If he didn''t know that he was still in a world stricken by the Cataclysm, he would have thought he had traveled back to Earth and walked into a high-end four-star hotel.


    ¡ª¡ªThe tall ceiling was adorned with large crystal chandeliers, the floor was paved with high-quality marble, and the walls were decorated with exquisite reliefs or hanging calligraphy and paintings. Even the seating area was equipped with luxurious sofa sets.


    Although this caliber of hotel generally only catered to wealthy merchants and officials from the Sanctuary, the living environment was still somewhat exaggeratedly luxurious.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t gawk like a country bumpkin, but instead naturally took a seat in the lobby area, ordered a cup of tea, and began to wait patiently.


    He didn''t have to wait long. At 7:20 PM, 40 minutes before the scheduled time, a hotel waiter approached Qiu Tu and respectfully handed him an envelope.


    Qiu Tu looked up at him.


    "Sir," the waiter said reverently, "this was given to me by your friend to pass onto you."


    "My friend?" Qiu Tu raised his head and looked around but didn''t see anyone suspicious.


    He took the envelope with his hand. It was light and thin, as if it contained nothing substantial.


    After the waiter departed, Qiu Tu opened it to take a look.


    Inside, to his discovery, was a... room card.


    Room number 416.


    Qiu Tu toyed with the room card, an amused glint in his eyes.


    Having finished his tea, Qiu Tu picked up the room card and stood up to walk towards the elevator.


    He pressed the elevator button, and soon the elevator doors opened.


    Qiu Tu stepped inside.


    While the elevator ascended, Qiu Tu touched his waist and felt the reassuring presence of his service pistol still holstered there.


    Before departing, Qiu Tu had already checked his handgun, adjusted it to a ready state, and disengaged the safety.


    This allowed him to fire at a moment''s notice should danger arise.


    The elevator ascended level by level, and quickly stopped at the fourth floor.


    With the opening of the elevator doors, Qiu Tu cautiously observed the surroundings before stepping out.


    Since Xinjie City was newly established, the business environment was still comparatively poor, leading to a low overall occupancy rate for the hotel, and Qiu Tu encountered no other guests as he made his way to room 416.


    Upon reaching the door, Qiu Tu tentatively knocked, but there was no response from within.


    He hesitated for a moment before swiping the room card.


    The sound of the door lock turning emanated from within, and Qiu Tu pushed the door open.


    Inside the room, a young man with a square face dressed in plain clothes was standing by the window, looking at him.


    "You are...?" Qiu Tu stepped into the room, closed the door behind him, and inquired tentatively as he observed the young man.


    The young man pulled out an ID from his pocket and showed it to Qiu Tu. "Hello, Agent Qiu, let me introduce myself. I am Lin Zuo, Deputy Staff Chief of the Investigation Department from the Security Department."


    "The reason for the presumptuous invitation today is to request your cooperation with our work."


    At Lin Zuo''s introduction, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted slightly.


    Security Department...?


    If it were the former Qiu Tu, he probably would have been clueless at the mention of the "Security Department," given it wasn''t a high-profile department.


    But having spent the last few days with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu had gleaned much covert information from her, including details about the Security Department...


    The Security Department, officially known as the Department of Security Protection and Secret Investigation, was a confidential division under the military.


    Its primary roles were to combat anti-government armed forces and handle crisis events.


    More importantly, secret affairs related to Cataclysm Awakening also fell under this department''s jurisdiction.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, everyone in the department was elite, and many were Cataclysmics.


    Additionally, since the members of this department were selected directly from the Sanctuary and not recruited from the various Planning Areas, their combat capabilities were said to be unmatched by any department within the Planning Areas. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, why would such a formidable department seek him out?


    Was it because of the commotion he had stirred up recently, drawing their attention and interest, or was it... that Qin Shuman''s background was connected to this department?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also asked tentatively, "What does Section Chief Lin need my assistance with? And why seek me out?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s probing, Lin Zuo said, "Actually, we have been monitoring the key members of the Qin Family for the past six months."


    "So when the United Front attacked you and Qin Shuman, we likewise took notice of you."


    "Later, we discovered the Investigation Bureau seemed to be investigating the Qin Family as well, even transferring you to the Political Department specifically for this matter, so we hesitated over whether to make contact."


    "It wasn''t until yesterday when you ostentatiously moved a team of Political Department Investigators into the Qin household that we felt things might be getting out of hand, prompting us to make an urgent connection with you."


    "The reason for inviting you over is to both communicate and exchange intelligence and to discuss our respective operational scopes to prevent mutual interference leading to the failure of our missions..."


    Lin Zuo''s reasons were well-founded and outwardly beyond reproach, but... Qiu Tu just didn''t trust them...


    He probed again, "Section Chief Lin seems very well-informed about the current situation in the Qin household. Have you planted a spy there?"


    Lin Zuo''s expression remained unchanged, "I apologize, Agent Qiu. That is a secret of the Security Department and I regret I cannot disclose it."


    Qiu Tu was not offended; his mind raced. "Alright then, I won''t ask about that. Let''s get right to the crux of our potential cooperation."


    He said, "I recall Section Chief Lin mentioned in the text message that you have information that would interest me. Might I inquire what information Section Chief Lin believes would pique my interest?"

 Chapter 36 The Secret of the Qin Family

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo looked at him expressionlessly, just like that.Moments later, he sighed and said, "Agent Qiu, we both belong to the secrecy departments, and should know that some intelligence can be shared, while some cannot."


    "We genuinely want to cooperate with you, so please stop probing us."


    Qiu Tu looked at Lin Zuo and was not easily sidetracked, speaking earnestly, "Section Chief Lin, I understand the difficulties you face. But I''m not actually trying to make you break any rules."


    At this point, he paused, then provided a very legitimate reason,


    "We are, after all, in the business of exchanging information, so I think it would be beneficial for us to first understand what kind of intelligence each side can offer."


    "This will not only allow both parties to more effectively assess the value of intelligence and reach cooperation but also avoid the risk of intelligence leakage after discovering that the shared information doesn''t meet our needs."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo fell into deep thought.


    After a moment, he made up his mind. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You make sense."


    "Then I''ll just speak frankly. We can provide you with clues about the Qin Family''s secret collusion with the United Front and evidence of benefit exchanges between the Qin Family and several members of City Hall."


    Upon hearing Lin Zuo''s words, a smile couldn''t help but form at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth: Success...


    In fact, the reason he had been persistently focusing on this topic was to verify something: whether the Security Department approaching him had anything to do with Qin Shuman.


    After all... the work scope of the Political Department only covers espionage, counterespionage, and internal supervision.


    So to outsiders, Qiu Tu''s placement in the Qin Family had only one purpose, which was to investigate the Qin Family, especially whether Qin Zhengguang (of the second house) was involved in any illegal or undisciplined acts.


    Although Master Qin Si provided Qiu Tu with some clues about Qin Zhengguang''s collusion with anti-government armed forces and gangs, they all fundamentally fell within the Political Department''s sphere of "internal supervision."


    But Lin Zuo was different. The intelligence he offered to Qiu Tu was about the "Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front" and "benefit exchanges with City Hall" which suggests that he was indeed fully aware of Qiu Tu''s [real purpose] for staying with the Qin Family.


    However, it should be noted that in the entire Xinjie City, only Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and Qin Shuman were privy to Qiu Tu''s true purpose at the Qin Residence.


    Even his own people like Ah-Tai and Eagle were not given the slightest hint by Qiu Tu.


    So how did the Security Department come by this information?


    Thus, the answer is seemingly apparent.


    ''I didn''t expect Qin Shuman to keep such a deep cover...''


    While he silently marveled to himself, Qiu Tu subtly nodded in agreement, confirming the cooperation with the Security Department, "Section Chief Lin, I am very satisfied with the intelligence you provided, so I agree to exchange intelligence with you."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu took out the intelligence he had copied that afternoon, exchanged it with Lin Zuo, and they had a brief discussion.


    The overlapping information between the two was not substantial, and the clues in Qiu Tu''s hands were mainly four points.


    1. Qin Zhengguang (of the second house) has a problem with benefit exchanges with the underground Fierce Tiger Gang.


    2. Qin Zhengguang has been secretly collaborating with the United Front.


    3. Two months ago, Qin Zhengguang released a batch of suspects, among whom were members of the United Front.


    4. Qin Zhengguang skimmed medicines from black markets he controlled, then sold them at high prices to anti-government groups.


    Lin Zuo, on the other hand, had some clues about the Qin Family''s collusion with various forces.


    For example, the Qin Family had dealings with the United Front even before Xinjie City was established, maintaining business in human trafficking, medicines, and weapons.


    For instance, during the planning stages of Xinjie City, the Qin Family had very close interactions with Yan Chen.


    Such as after the establishment of Xinjie City, the Qin Family engaged in some gray business with several members of City Hall in private, using these gray businesses to transfer benefits to those members.


    Such as the Qin Family''s underground dealings being anonymous, meaning any power could use vouchers to pick up and sell goods without verifying identities, making many underground organizations and anti-government armed forces their clients.


    After comparing each other''s clues and evidence, Qiu Tu and Lin Zuo keenly noticed an interesting point.


    Lin Zuo, "All your clues relate to the Qin Family''s second house?"


    Qiu Tu, "All your clues relate to the entire Qin Family?"


    The two exchanged a glance, then smiled at each other.


    Qiu Tu explained, "The Political Department''s jurisdiction is internal supervision, so its main target is naturally the Qin Family''s second house."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu asked, "But the evidence you have involves the entire Qin Family?"


    He paused, then probed with a question, "Is it that you haven''t examined the details, or do you think the entire Qin Family is problematic?"


    Lin Zuo said, "It''s that the whole Qin Family might be problematic."


    His gaze was firm. "Don''t forget that Old Master Qin has just passed away."


    "Before Old Master Qin died, all four houses of the Qin Family had already begun handling their affairs and cooperating with each other."


    "So, in terms of collusion with the United Front and the transfer of medicines and materials, they are likely all involved."


    After hearing Lin Zuo''s explanation, Qiu Tu nodded thoughtfully...


    And so, in the following hour, Qiu Tu and Lin Zuo fully exchanged their respective departments'' views and then reached a basic consensus, Qiu Tu would act openly, while the Security Department would work behind the scenes, with both sides jointly investigating and sharing information.


    If in the end, no issues were found, they would keep each other''s secrets.


    If they really could take down the entire Qin Family, then the credit would be shared equally.


    After finalizing their discussions, the two men clasped hands firmly together.


    Thus, the cooperation was set, and Lin Zuo escorted Qiu Tu out the door.


    Upon reaching the door, Qiu Tu suddenly stopped, then turned back to give Lin Zuo a smile and said, "Give my regards to your superior."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo visibly started, his brain whirring. After a moment, he nodded with a smile.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu turned with satisfaction and headed towards the elevator.


    He wasn''t bluffing Lin Zuo, but had genuinely guessed that there were others behind Lin Zuo.


    The reason was quite simple:


    Even though the military and the Investigation Bureau are separate systems, their rank structures correspond.


    Starting with temporary investigators, temporary commissioners, and then rising to Third-Level Detective (Third-Level Commissioner), Second-Class Investigator (Second-Level Commissioner), and First-Level Detective (First-Level Commissioner) in succession.


    After First-Level Detective, management roles follow; these would be Investigator and Senior Investigator at the operational level, and at the office, they would be Deputy Staff and Section Chief.


    So, in terms of rank, Lin Zuo''s position as Deputy Staff was in fact a whole level higher than that of Qiu Tu. Moreover, one was a manager while the other was a lower-level employee.


    Therefore, according to the principle of equal inter-departmental cooperation, if the Security Department wanted to liaise with Qiu Tu, the person to approach him should not have been Lin Zuo, but someone subordinate to Lin Zuo.


    Yet now Lin Zuo was stooping to make contact with Qiu Tu, which could only mean one thing: that the task was pressed down by his superiors, and furthermore, Lin Zuo''s superiors had specifically requested that he personally take on this assignment.

 Chapter 37 Qin Shuman Died?

    "So... Qin Shuman''s contact person is at least a department head with real power from a secret department?"Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s eyes looked a bit peculiar...


    He felt he might have underestimated this woman.


    He had originally thought she was nothing more than an insignificant piece among several forces, but it turned out she was quite substantial?


    As for whether Qin Shuman could be from the Security Department, Qiu Tu felt it was highly unlikely.


    After all... unless Qin Shuman was Lin Zuo''s boss, personally in charge of this matter. Otherwise, even if she was also a deputy head, there was no reason for Lin Zuo to come forward and make the contact for her.


    Half an hour later.


    "Yes, you guessed it, I am Lin Zuo''s boss."


    Looking at Qin Shuman''s stunningly beautiful face, Qiu Tu: ...


    He raised his hand to stop Qin Shuman from continuing to speak and said with a troubled face, "Wait a moment, let me sort this out first."


    After saying this, he hurriedly recalled the events of the past half-hour.


    Half an hour earlier, after finishing the discussion about cooperation with Lin Zuo, Qiu Tu returned to the Qin Family from the Milan Grand Hotel.


    At the base of the Security Team, Qiu Tu first inquired about Cao Dabiao''s situation.


    Upon learning that Cao Dabiao had not returned to the unit, he didn''t wait any further but went straight to find Qin Shuman, intending to probe her background. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qin Shuman seemed to be waiting for him too, so the two hit it off and went to the bar where they had drinks the night before to continue their chat.


    Due to his habit of deceiving others, after finishing the discussion about Lin Zuo with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu casually tested her by saying, "Actually, if you wanted to cooperate with me, there was no need for your subordinate to approach me."


    "Is there anything we can''t talk about between us?"


    Originally, Qiu Tu just wanted to bluff, but who knew that Qin Shuman would actually admit it straight away...


    ....


    Struggling to pull his thoughts back to a normal track, Qiu Tu, by the light of the bar, looked at the beautiful woman before him and seriously analyzed the possibility that she was Lin Zuo''s boss.


    But... no matter how he analyzed it, he found there were too many holes in this idea.


    So, after hitting a dead end with that line of thought, he looked at Qin Shuman with a peculiar expression and said, "You''re not pulling my leg, are you?"


    Having seen Qiu Tu calculating behind the scenes many times, Qin Shuman burst into laughter for the first time seeing Qiu Tu off guard, shaking with laughter.


    After laughing, she regained her composure, sighed, and then spoke lightly, "Actually, don''t say you don''t believe it. Even if you told Lin Zuo everything now, he probably wouldn''t believe it."


    Qiu Tu was dizzy with confusion by Qin Shuman and looked at her with a perplexed face.


    However, Qin Shuman suddenly asked a question, "Qiu Tu, do you remember the question I asked you last night: Do you believe that a person can suddenly become someone else?"


    Qiu Tu''s keenly caught the hidden meaning in Qin Shuman''s words, his eyes narrowed slightly, "What do you mean? You are not the former Qin Shuman?"


    Qin Shuman nodded.


    She leaned against the bar''s counter, looking at Qiu Tu, and then spoke softly, "You have been in contact with the young girl Shen Lingshuang these past few days, you should be aware of the Cataclysmics, right?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Qin Shuman took a sip of her drink, "Actually... I am a Cataclysmic."


    "Or rather, once was a Cataclysmic."


    Her gaze was filled with memories and melancholy, "My original identity was the head of the Investigation Department of the Security Section in the military, codenamed Rain Butterfly."


    "My Cataclysmic path was Mystery. And the ability I gained from the Cataclysm was ''Control Possession.''"


    "This ability allowed me to remote control the person I possessed. Not only could I attach myself to her body and communicate with her mind from a distance, observing her thoughts, but I could also forcibly control her body."


    "It was a very powerful ability."


    "And Qin Shuman... or rather, the original Qin Shuman was one of the people I had possessed."


    "She was a very kind and adorable young girl. Despite having a tragic background and her short life being nothing but a plaything for some big shot, she was still very positive and optimistic."


    "Perhaps because she was so lonely, even though I wasn''t friendly towards her, she always treated me as a friend, regularly chatting with me and sometimes even helping me investigate certain matters on her own initiative."


    "Everything was going well until you..." At this point, Qin Shuman glanced at Qiu Tu, paused, and added, "Or should I say your predecessor."


    Qin Shuman said, "She fell in love with your predecessor at first sight. Just a few days together, and they had fallen deeply in love..."


    Qin Shuman sighed, "I was quite busy at the time and didn''t possess her, so I had no idea this was happening."


    "So, when I possessed her one day to see how she was doing, I discovered that things had already gone too far..."


    "I was truly terrified at the time. Not because I was worried something might happen to her, cutting off this source of information, but because I knew that Yan Chen, with his personality, would never let them off the hook if he discovered their affair."


    "So, I tried my best to discourage her, wanting her to give up. But she showed a determination she never had before."


    "I still remember the words she said to me back then."


    "She said, ''Sister Rain Butterfly, I only have a short five years to live, and to meet someone I like is really too difficult. I don''t want, when after I die, to only remember being under a man covered in fat...''"


    "I didn''t know how to persuade her, and could only watch as the two of them moved closer to the abyss step by step."


    "And then... until that day."


    At this point, Qin Shuman covered her face with her hands and said in agony, "That day, after finishing my official duties, because I was worried about her, I wanted to see how she was doing recently."


    "But who would have known that when I used my ability and possessed her, I discovered she and your predecessor were lying naked in bed, their bodies still breathing, but their souls were completely shattered."


    "I was startled and wanted to flee. Suddenly, a pain that pierced into the soul hit me, and I completely lost consciousness."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s eyes were filled with sorrow, "And when I woke up, it was when you suddenly pushed yourself on top of me."


    "I was terrified at that moment. I wanted to resist, but I simply couldn''t."


    She sighed, "It was only then that I realized I had become ''her''."


    "I went from the third-person perspective of possession to the first-person perspective. From being able to disconnect the possession at any time to ''Permanent Possession.''


    "So, although I didn''t know what had happened, I had no choice but to take it one step at a time and first pretend to be her."


    "Fortunately, I had often observed her life and communicated with her frequently before, and coupled with the residual habits of her body, besides those close to her, no one else could really tell."


    At this, she had a distant look in her eyes, "Of course, she didn''t have many close people."


    "Except... your predecessor."


    After listening to Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu''s mouth slowly opened, and it took a long time for him to snap back to reality.

 Chapter 38 The Magic Reality (Please follow the story!)

    Qiu Tu felt that his worldview had received a great shock, as everything that had happened to him since he traveled through time seemed to have been overturned by Qin Shuman''s story.He quickly reenacted the whole story according to the truth Qin Shuman had revealed.


    As a result, well... it was surprisingly consistent.


    Qiu Tu was a bit dazed.


    He felt this was all too magical, right?


    So, what exactly happened that day? Why did not only he travel through time, but Qin Shuman also got trapped in this body?


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu was questioning his life, Qin Shuman began to speak.


    Her red lips lightly touched the edge of the cup, her eyes carrying a hint of mystery and a teasing smile as she asked, "Qiu Tu, I''ve told you my entire identity. Isn''t it your turn to be honest with me and tell me your story?"


    Speaking, she propped up her cheek, looking at Qiu Tu with a playful gaze, "Who are you really? And why are you trapped in the same body as I am?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Hearing this question, Qiu Tu reflexively wanted to lie, to gloss over the details. But upon seeing Qin Shuman''s gaze, he hesitated for a moment.


    What kind of eyes were they?


    Bewilderment, melancholy, indecision... and a faint glimmer of hope hidden deep within...


    In that instant, Qiu Tu felt as though he understood the beautiful woman before him:


    A proud daughter of the Sanctuary, suddenly trapped in a cloned female body with only two years of life left and stuck in a crisis.


    Unsure if she could return to her original body, uncertain of the fate of this body, and unaware if her soul would dissipate along with this body''s demise. She must feel incredibly desperate, right?


    And then, at this time, she discovers that there is someone beside her with a similar experience...


    In that moment, the desperation in her heart must have subsided quite a bit, right?


    It was like¡­ one lonely soul encountering another...


    That''s why she relied on him so much.


    Because... he might be the last ray of light in her life...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then softly said, "I... might have a situation even more complicated than yours."


    "I did indeed enter this body after its previous owner died."


    "But... I am not a person of Xinjie, I don''t even know where Xinjie City is."


    "I also don''t know why I entered this body."


    "If it weren''t for the memories I discovered after I entered his body, I probably wouldn''t even be able to pretend."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman gently swirled her wine glass, her face breaking into a bright smile, "I knew my feeling was right. We are the same kind."


    Saying this, she raised her glass to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu smiled, picked up his glass, and clinked it with hers.


    "Ding~" A clear sound rang out. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Both looked into each other''s eyes, draining their glasses in one gulp.


    In that moment, they both felt as if the distance between them had narrowed considerably...


    After drinking a few more glasses, Qiu Tu, emboldened by the alcohol, broached the topic he was most interested in, "Have you thought about returning to your original body?"


    Qin Shuman gently stroked the rim of her glass, her gaze hazy, her breath fragrant, "Of course, I have."


    "In fact... I''ve already tried all the methods I can think of over the past few days, but all have failed."


    "Otherwise, I wouldn''t be so dejected."


    Qiu Tu sighed softly and asked, "Have you considered asking for help from the military or the Security Department?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head lightly, "There are several Cataclysmics in the Security Department, and I''m very aware of what abilities they possess. But... they can''t help me."


    Her eyes revealed exhaustion, "As for the military, they won''t bother with me."


    Qiu Tu was curious, "Why not?"


    Qin Shuman looked deeply into his eyes, "Have you forgotten what my identity is now?"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu was first stunned, then realized he had asked a rather foolish question:


    Qin Shuman''s predecessor was Yan Chen''s mistress. Was Qin Shuman''s possession of her body really just to investigate the Qin Family, as Lin Zuo had revealed?


    Impossible!


    To investigate the Qin Family, why not choose another point of entry?


    With the Qin Family being so powerful, which entry point wouldn''t be better than a Cloned Female Body created by the Qin Family, who stayed by Yan Chen''s side every day?


    Therefore, the reason Qin Shuman chose to possess the body of Yan Chen''s mistress was actually to investigate Yan Chen himself.


    That is to say, Yan Chen was the original target of the Security Department.


    But who is Yan Chen? He''s the highest-ranking official of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. He''s also one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, alongside General Ye from the military!


    If the Security Department conducted a private investigation of such a big shot and something went wrong, whether it was General Ye or the head of the Security Department, they would immediately disassociate themselves and declare it as "Qin Shuman''s personal behavior."


    In the face of such significant issues, no one would risk causing a clash between two major departments just for a minor section chief.


    Nor would anyone secretly take Qin Shuman away for treatment: whose predecessor was Yan Chen''s mistress, who in their right mind would try to take her away without Yan Chen''s knowledge?


    So that''s why Qin Shuman felt so desperate.


    Because she discovered that whether she looked forward or back, there was no way out....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also fell silent.


    After quietly contemplating for a while, he finally said, "So, only by taking down Yan Chen, will you be accepted back by the military and get their help to treat you?"


    Qin Shuman spread her hands, "There''s just a slight hope. After all, no one really knows how to reverse our condition."


    "Maybe... it will naturally recover over time?"


    "Maybe it requires some special Cataclysmic using their powers in a certain way to restore me?"


    "Maybe... it needs some precious Cataclysm Prop?"


    "Or maybe... it will never be restored in this lifetime."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman''s gaze dimmed, "Moreover, even if there really is a way in this world that could cure me, this body''s lifespan is too short. I might not be able to wait that long."


    Possibly affected by Qin Shuman''s mood, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but sigh deeply upon hearing her words.


    He consoled her, "In fact, thinking so much is rather pointless. We are already walking on a tightrope; who knows, maybe we will be eliminated by Yan Chen before the lifespan of this body even ends."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman also smiled. She toasted with a tipsy gesture, "Right. That''s why I''ve come to terms with it, to enjoy life while I can!"


    "Enjoy life while you can~"


    ...


    After getting Qin Shuman drunk again, Qiu Tu looked complexly as the maid helped this pitiful woman into the bedroom, and then he turned and left the courtyard house.


    Perhaps because of their similar experiences, Qiu Tu felt a great deal of sympathy for Qin Shuman.


    He thought, if there was a chance, he should try to help this woman.


    After all, she was a section chief of the Security Department; capturing her could be very useful...

 Chapter 39 The Dirty Qin Family (Please Follow!)

    As for the method of assisting Qin Shuman, it was quite straightforward. The first was through "connections," and the second was through the "Golden Finger."Regarding connections, Qiu Tu planned to find an opportunity to have a sidelong chat with Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang''s father was a high-ranking official in the Sanctuary, and she was a Pharmacist herself. It was very likely that she knew how to help Qin Shuman.


    And if Shen Lingshuang didn''t have a way to help Qin Shuman, then Qiu Tu still had his Golden Finger.


    His current Golden Finger, "Crisis Intuition," would reward him each time he got through a crisis. Perhaps it contained an item that could solve Qin Shuman''s predicament.


    Even if "Crisis Intuition" couldn''t aid Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu could also try to refresh other Golden Fingers to see if there was any way to help Qin Shuman.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu suddenly had a goal in mind.


    For this first woman he had met after crossing over, the first woman with whom he had shared a skin-to-skin bond, knowing her tragic fate, Qiu Tu didn''t feel nobly obliged to be responsible for her life, but he still wanted to rescue her as much as he could...


    Moreover, Qiu Tu knew that this was not just him being unilaterally sentimental¡ªQin Shuman was in fact also trying to find a way to save herself.


    After learning about the real objectives of the Security Department, Qiu Tu immediately guessed that today''s meeting with Lin Zuo was most likely an arrangement made by Qin Shuman on her own initiative.


    The purpose was simple, to provide him with more information about the Qin Family, to prevent himself from being sold out by Master Qin Si.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu exhaled deeply. Indeed, it''s hard to repay a beautiful woman''s favor...


    ...


    Upon returning to the Security Team''s base, Cao Dabiao and his two companions had already come back. They reeked of alcohol and had eaten until their bellies were round.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao approached with a flattering smile and said softly, "Commander, I''ve taken care of the task you gave me."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu glanced at his drunken state and gestured, "Let''s talk inside."


    Cao Dabiao staggered and followed him in.


    Inside the room, Qiu Tu brewed a pot of tea and poured a cup for Cao Dabiao.


    Cao Dabiao, belly bulging, waved his hands repeatedly, "No more, no more, I''ve drunk my fill."


    Qiu Tu looked at him and chided with a laugh, "You really don''t hold back when it''s on the public dime, do you?"


    Cao Dabiao chuckled, "Well, the Investigation Bureau reimburses it, so why not spend it if it''s there?"


    Qiu Tu knew he was probing, so he offered reassurance, "As long as it helps solve the case, spend what must be spent. If the money''s not enough, I''ll apply for more!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s assertive words, Cao Dabiao genuinely smiled. He then took out an envelope and passed it to Qiu Tu with both hands, "Commander, here is what we''ve gathered tonight."


    Qiu Tu responded with a "hmm," as he reached for the envelope and sat down.


    He opened the envelope and started going through the documents inside, page by page.


    It had to be said that Cao Dabiao, capable of becoming a First Level Detective of the Political Department, possessed certain skills. The documents not only detailed all the pertinent conversations from room 108 that night in text but also differentiated and marked the individuals involved in the dialogue.


    For example, a total of seven people had entered room 108 that night, with the main conversation occurring between a crew-cut young man and an elderly man in black.


    And on the first page of the file, simple sketches of the two men''s faces were attached.


    Though their identities weren''t labeled... it was enough for Qiu Tu to get a rough idea of who these two men were.


    In addition to the paper files, the archive bag also contained original audio tapes and undeveloped film rolls, so Qiu Tu was very satisfied with Cao Dabiao''s work for tonight''s mission.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu was not stingy with his praise. He glanced at Cao Dabiao and smiled, "Brother Biao has a knack for this. The information is very comprehensive."


    After speaking, he continued to review the materials and asked, "Was there anything worth noting during tonight''s surveillance? What are your thoughts?" S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Cao Dabiao had clearly prepared in advance. Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, he pointed to his drunken face with a flattering smile and said, "Sir, while I was monitoring, I was busy eating and drinking, so I didn''t really pay much attention."


    "For the specifics, you''ll need to take a look yourself."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave Cao Dabiao a look. Seeing that his expression remained unchanged, Qiu Tu immediately knew he was deliberately playing dumb.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t annoyed. He quickly sorted through the information and then understood why Cao Dabiao was playing fool...


    It was simple¡ªbecause Cao Dabiao had discovered that tonight''s incident was a bit too sensitive, involving not only the middle ranks of the Investigation Bureau but also the Qin Family, a Major Clan.


    He couldn''t afford to offend the "Mystery" that was Qiu Tu, but neither could he afford to offend Qin Zhengguang and the Qin Family.


    So, although he had recorded everything very meticulously tonight, he had deliberately drunk a lot of alcohol, using intoxication as an excuse to feign ignorance.


    This was a common self-preservation tactic employed by the small folk in these chaotic times.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t make things difficult for him; he waved his hand and let him go to rest.


    After carefully reviewing all the materials and playing back the audio tapes to listen to all the conversations in the private room, Qiu Tu sat in the chair with his eyes closed, his fingers gently tapping on the table.


    The content of the materials and audio recordings was simple: representatives of two forces were negotiating.


    From the way they addressed each other, one side was a captain from the United Front (a man with a buzz cut), and the other was a steward from the Qin Family (an elder in black clothes).


    As for which branch of the family this steward belonged to, it was not clear from the recordings, but... the likelihood was that he was from the second branch.


    The purpose of the negotiation between the two parties was also straightforward¡ªit was about a drug trade.


    In these chaotic times, besides gold, the most valuable and scarce commodities were drugs and weapons.


    Therefore, in the face of the United Front, the Qin Family demanded a price far above the market rate and also made a series of other harsh demands.


    For example, they required the United Front to cooperate with the Public Security Bureau''s certain operations to help Director Qin gain merit; for another, they requested that part of the payment be made in young women or boys around two to three years old, and so on.


    Although the Sanctuary controlled the Planning Area, most of the world was still a Disaster Zone. In the Disaster Zones, many ordinary people lived in dire straits. The Qin Family could not scour these Disaster Zones for people, but the United Front could.


    The young women scavenged by them could be sent to the Qin Family''s underground brothel, earning the Qin Family exorbitant profits; the young boys, on the other hand, were to be groomed from a young age as private soldiers or enforcers...


    After listening to all the recordings, Qiu Tu''s gaze became profound.


    The Qin Family''s filthy dealings reminded him of the days when he had been sold to Northern Myanmar in his past life.


    In the eyes of the scamming groups and the Qin Family, people were never "people" but "goods."


    "Truly despicable..."


    Qiu Tu murmured softly and then his brain started to work rapidly, pondering how to deal with the Qin Family...


    Soon, he reached a decision...

 Chapter 40 The Political Department Has No Wrong Cases

    Having placed the material into the file bag, Qiu Tu carried the file bag to the study.Inside the study, there was a safe.


    He turned the dial, opened the safe, and Qiu Tu took out a small booklet¡ªthis was the original evidence given to him by Master Qin Si.


    Placing the booklet on the desk, Qiu Tu proceeded to take out several other paper documents from the safe. These were the reports from the investigations and evidence verification conducted by the teams led by Chen Feng and four others in the past two days.


    He placed these along with the file bag onto the desk and bent over his desk to transcribe all the intelligence Lin Zuo had told him that day.


    Half an hour later, looking at the several pieces of information laid out before him on the desk, the corners of Qiu Tu''s mouth curled into a smile.


    Whether the plan would work or not, would be seen tomorrow....


    ....


    [4 days (The latest deadline to obtain evidence of the Qin Family''s guilt)]


    [7:59:41 (Time available to create the Cataclysmic Potion)]


    The night passed without incident.


    The next day, Qiu Tu got up early, freshened up, and then went to report to Qin Shuman.


    Having slept through the night, Qin Shuman was noticeably in a better mood. And perhaps because she was in the company of outsiders, she reverted back to her innocent and na?ve persona: her large eyes revealed a transparency and foolishness that one could see through at a glance.


    But Qiu Tu did not dare to underestimate this woman.


    After all, she was not only the chief of a secret department, but she also possessed supernatural powers as a Cataclysmic.


    Although she had made herself sound quite pitiable the night before, and while Qiu Tu did indeed plan to lend her a hand if he had the chance, it was still essential to maintain a degree of caution.


    In this dog-eat-dog world, to trust someone completely was to make a mockery of one''s own life.


    After chatting with Qin Shuman for a while and arranging her duty roster for the day, Qiu Tu left the courtyard, ready to head to the Investigation Bureau.


    However, just as he left the courtyard and hadn''t yet walked far, Qiu Tu''s communicator rang: a call from Master Qin Si.


    Qiu Tu''s steps faltered slightly, and then he continued walking out unobtrusively while answering the communicator.


    Once the communicator connected, the cheerful voice of Master Qin Si came through the receiver, "Did Agent Qiu make any gains last night?"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Quite substantial, indeed."


    "I also have to thank you, Fourth Master, for the clues and help provided, which finally allowed me to advance this case."


    Master Qin Si was clearly surprised by the response, "That fast?"


    He probed, "Did they provide Agent Qiu with critical evidence last night?"


    As Qiu Tu walked, he explained with a chuckle, "Fourth Master has misunderstood. The Political Department and other departments of the Investigation Bureau are not the same."


    "Other departments conduct their investigations with the presumption of innocence, investigating first before arresting suspects."


    "However, due to its special nature, the Political Department operates on the presumption of guilt. As soon as we have a lead, we can directly arrest and investigate."


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si couldn''t help but ask, "What if you arrest the wrong person?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu burst into laughter, "Arrest the wrong person? How is that possible? The Political Department has been free of wrongful convictions since its establishment."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s voice dropped, "Otherwise, why would the floor of the Political Department''s interrogation room always be black and red....."


    Even as a major underworld figure, in that instant, Master Qin Si felt a chill run down his spine.


    But in the next second, he was laughing heartily again, "Then I''ll be waiting for Agent Qiu''s good news."


    After he finished speaking, he was ready to hang up the phone.


    But just then, Qiu Tu interjected, "Fourh Master, don''t hurry. Let''s chat a bit more."


    Qiu Tu paused, then said, "As you know, Fourth Master, I have dozens of people under me. These past few days, we''ve been busy running around, putting a lot of effort into handling this matter, you say..."


    Master Qin Si was startled, then he understood and burst into laughter, "Agent Qiu is really straightforward. Rest assured, the Qin Family has noticed all the effort you''ve put into contributing to Xinjie City."


    "Later on, someone will send some gifts of gratitude to your room. Make sure to accept them with a smile when the time comes!"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Then I must thank Fourth Master! Rest assured, as public servants, we will definitely do our best to handle each case."


    "And not let any criminals escape justice!"


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si hung up the phone, still smiling.


    At this moment, as Qiu Tu heard the "beep... beep..." from the communicator, the smile on his face slowly faded.


    He expressionlessly put the communicator back into his pocket and left the Qin family residence without lingering, carrying the documents with him...


    ....


    No sooner had he stepped out of the Qin family''s gate than a brand-new black sedan pulled up in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and cocked his head towards the car.


    The window of the rear seat slowly rolled down, revealing the face of Qin Zhengguang, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau from the Investigation Bureau''s second largest family, the Qin Clan. He sat in the car, his gaze deep as he looked at Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu''s expression remained unchanged, and he greeted with a smile, "Good day, Chief."


    Qin Zhengguang, with slicked-back hair and dressed in a black suit, exuded an aura of unspoken authority.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s greeting, he responded with an indifferent "Hmm" and then looked straight ahead, asking faintly, "Agent Qiu seems to be quite busy with official duties recently? Going out frequently?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "The tasks from the Political Department are indeed heavy, so even when we go out on missions, we have to work overtime."


    Qin Zhengguang said indifferently, "No matter how heavy the tasks, work needs to be meticulous. Don''t jump to conclusions based on rumors. Be careful that in trying to investigate others, you don''t trap yourself and end up in trouble."


    Qiu Tu continued to smile, "Thank you for the concern, Director. But I only have this one sorry life, so I''m not afraid of getting trapped."


    Qin Zhengguang, after hearing this, took a deep look at Qiu Tu and then snorted coldly, looking at the driver and was about to tell the driver to go.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke up again, asking curiously, "Where is Director Qin heading to?"


    Qin Zhengguang glanced at Qiu Tu with the corner of his eye, and replied emotionlessly, "To the Bureau."


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "That''s perfect, I''m also headed to the Bureau. Please, Director Qin, let me hitch a ride."


    After saying this, he casually opened the front passenger door, sat down comfortably, and complained, "Having a car is really amazing! If I didn''t have a car, I''d have to change vehicles three times and walk for more than ten minutes from the Qin residence to the Bureau, which is really inconvenient."


    Qin Zhengguang: ??


    Watching Qiu Tu close the door and even skillfully adjust the back of the seat, Qin Zhengguang initially was puzzled, followed by a prolonged silence:.....


    The driver looked back at him, a bit helplessly seeking guidance, and after two seconds of silence, he finally nodded.


    However, after nodding, he shifted to the side-- the adjustment Qiu Tu had made to the seat back squished the space where he was sitting quite a bit...


    And so, the car slowly moved along the bumpy roads of Xinjie City, heading towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Qin Zhengguang initially thought Qiu Tu got in the car to discuss some secret topic with him, but as he waited throughout the ride, Qiu Tu not only didn''t say a word, but even fell asleep... S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This left him completely baffled and even more at a loss as to what exactly Qiu Tu was up to.

 Chapter 41 Great Favor

    Actually, as soon as Qiu Tu had led his team into the Qin Family residence, Qin Zhengguang had already secretly investigated Qiu Tu.After all, the arrival of a First Level Detective from the Political Department at his family clan was a political signal far too sensitive.


    Adding to that, the rumors within the Bureau about "Qiu Tu holding old grudges against the Qin Family" made him exceedingly careful.


    So, he meticulously looked into Qiu Tu.


    He discovered that... Qiu Tu and the Qin Family had almost no interactions, nor any grievances.


    This suddenly left Qin Zhengguang somewhat perplexed.


    Therefore, he began to investigate the source of the rumors claiming "Qiu Tu bore a grudge against the Qin Family."


    In the end, the investigation circled back to Yan Chen and Secretary Bai.


    But the problem was... during the investigation into Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang found out that Qiu Tu was Secretary Bai''s man. It was precisely because of Secretary Bai''s trust that Qiu Tu was able to cling to Yan Chen''s powerful coattails.


    Now, as Qiu Tu came to investigate the Qin Family, were Secretary Bai and Yan Chen pulling his legs??


    But... wasn''t it Yan Chen who had engineered Qiu Tu''s promotion and departmental transfer? Wasn''t Yan Chen the mastermind behind this investigation?


    This web of contradictory and intricate relationships left Qin Zhengguang unable to uncover the truth for a long time and shrouded Qiu Tu in a veil of mystery in his eyes.


    Therefore, even though Qin Zhengguang knew that Qiu Tu might be up to no good against him, he dared not act rashly.


    After holding off for two days, Qin Zhengguang happened to run into Qiu Tu on the road today, so he took the opportunity to try and intimidate Qiu Tu, hoping that Qiu Tu would back off in the face of difficulty.


    Yet... who would have thought that not only did Qiu Tu not back off, but he became even more aggressive? He even caught a ride in his own car?


    Truly, Qin Zhengguang was at a loss to understand Qiu Tu''s thought process.


    And what he found even more baffling was...


    When the car stopped at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu simply stretched, yawned, and got out without a word of thanks!


    After alighting from the car, Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly remember something and turned back to knock on Qin Zhengguang''s window, leaving a "threat," "Director Qin, a piece of advice for you, better not wander around this morning, just stay in your office, have some tea, and read the documents."


    Watching Qiu Tu''s carefree figure walking into the Investigation Bureau, Qin Zhengguang''s brows were tightly furrowed, feeling more and more at a loss in understanding this young man in front of him....


    ... sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Arriving at the administrative building of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu took the elevator and went directly to the top floor: this was the private office space for the high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau.


    As one of the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau had one Bureau Chief, three Deputy Directors. Together with Jia Shu, Secretary Bai, the Special Duties Department Director, and the Public Security Department Director, who held actual power, they formed the pinnacle of the Bureau''s authority pyramid.


    These were the nine individuals at the very top of the tens of thousands of investigators in the entire Bureau.


    So, upon reaching the 12th floor, Qiu Tu behaved with utmost discretion. He made his way to Secretary Bai''s office, familiar with the path, and then knocked.


    Before long, a deep "Come in" echoed from the office of Secretary Bai.


    Qiu Tu pushed open the door to enter and saw Secretary Bai on the phone.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Secretary Bai was initially startled, then he gestured for Qiu Tu to sit down first while he continued his phone conversation, "Commissioner Wang, I understand, I understand. But this needs to pass through the Municipal Committee before it can take effect. Until it''s in effect, our Investigation Bureau really can''t arrange it in advance."


    "I know, I know, but..."


    After stalling for a minute, Secretary Bai hung up the phone with a relieved face.


    After disconnecting the call, Secretary Bai looked up at Qiu Tu and asked with a smile, "Why do you have the time to come back to the bureau today?"


    In the presence of the superior who had always guided him, Qiu Tu was very respectful, saying, "I''m here to report to the Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "Wait a second, let me check the Bureau Chief''s schedule."


    After speaking, Secretary Bai took a folder from the desk, opened it, and said casually, "Qiu Tu, the Bureau Chief is indeed very busy."


    "Besides handling various matters of Xinjie City, he also has to look after joint operations with several neighboring cities from time to time."


    "It''s just that Director Liu of Eastern City doesn''t have much to do with our Bureau Chief... um... the two don''t really cooperate, so there''s not much collaboration."


    "So, don''t always crowd around the Bureau Chief''s office without reason. Go do what you need to do."


    "If you interfere with the Bureau Chief''s important affairs, I won''t be able to protect you when the time comes."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu first froze, then looked at Secretary Bai with a complex gaze.


    Although Secretary Bai''s words seemed like a reprimand to Qiu Tu, they were actually informing Qiu Tu of Yan Chen''s sphere of influence:


    There are six or seven cities near Xinjie City; Yan Chen can exert influence on these cities. Even if Qiu Tu fled to those cities, he couldn''t escape from the palm of Yan Chen''s hand and would likely be apprehended and arrested.


    Only the Bureau Chief of Eastern City had a grudge with Yan Chen, so if Qiu Tu needed to run, he could flee to that city, and then from there to the Disaster Zone...


    This was a piece of information worth its weight in gold, as well as a way out for Qiu Tu should the situation become hopeless...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked at Secretary Bai with a complex gaze, heaving an inward sigh,


    ''Even in an apocalyptic world, there are still good people who remember kindness and seek to repay it....''


    Many in the Investigation Bureau knew that Qiu Tu was Secretary Bai''s man and that it was through Secretary Bai''s support that Qiu Tu had latched onto Yan Chen''s thigh.


    But what they didn''t know was that Qiu Tu was, in fact, Secretary Bai''s lifesaver.


    Two years ago, when Xinjie City was in its planning stages, Secretary Bai, as a confidant of Yan Chen, came to Xinjie City with the military to prepare in advance, clearing out underground forces.


    During that period, Secretary Bai was ambushed, got separated from the main force, and nearly lost his life in dire straits.


    It was Qiu Tu who brought him home and saved his life. Just like when he was a child finding Ah-Tai and the Eagle...


    Thus, when Xinjie City was established, Qiu Tu was able to connect with Secretary Bai and join the Investigation Bureau. Later, he was recommended to Yan Chen, and was promoted to a Second-Class Investigator...


    Otherwise, how could such a low-level person have such a stroke of luck.


    Originally, Qiu Tu thought that by now Secretary Bai had fully repaid his debt of gratitude. Therefore, he dared not trouble Secretary Bai afterwards.


    But unexpectedly, when Qiu Tu was deep in trouble, Secretary Bai did not forget to point out an escape route for him...


    .....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu finished recalling his past with Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai had also finished looking at Yan Chen''s schedule for the day.


    He put down the folder, looked up at Qiu Tu, and inquired, "I checked, and the Bureau Chief is indeed quite busy today, but he can spare a few minutes now. Will you go back and think it over, or should I notify him for you?"


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality, looked at Secretary Bai, and smiled, "Please notify him, sir."

 Chapter 42 Ive solved the case!

    Secretary Bai looked at Qiu Tu, just looked at him. After a moment, he sighed softly and then picked up the landline telephone on the desk.Soon the call connected and Secretary Bai had a brief chat with Yan Chen before standing up and saying to Qiu Tu, "Come with me. The Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu sincerely said to Secretary Bai, "Thank you, sir."


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder. Although he didn''t say a word, everything was understood without speaking.


    As Secretary Bai was the head of the Administrative Office and also Yan Chen''s secretary, their offices were very close to each other.


    Qiu Tu followed Secretary Bai for just a short walk before they arrived at Yan Chen''s office door.


    Reaching Yan Chen''s office door, Secretary Bai was about to knock when suddenly a "ding-dong~" sound rang out in the hallway¡ªit was the sound of a text message.


    Secretary Bai stopped his hand movement and looked at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu quickly showed an apologetic smile and took out his communicator to glance at it.


    The text message was from Fang Ming, and its content was straightforward, containing only nine words: Master Qin Si''s item has been delivered.


    A smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. He put his communicator on silent mode and placed it back in his pocket before then whispering to Secretary Bai, "Everything is taken care of."


    Secretary Bai nodded, then knocked on the office door.


    "Come in."


    Accompanied by Yan Chen''s low and husky voice, Secretary Bai opened the door, leading Qiu Tu into the office that represented the Investigation Bureau''s highest authority...


    Similar to Yan Chen''s study, his office was also adorned with thick curtains. Even though it was morning, the room was still incredibly dim, with only the desk lamp casting a faint glow.


    Qiu Tu was curious how Yan Chen could manage to go through documents in such an environment.


    "Bureau Chief, Agent Qiu is here." "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Hearing their greetings, Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness behind the lamp, hummed lightly and then looked at Qiu Tu with an expression neither happy nor sad and slowly asked, "I heard you have a situation to report?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    "I''ve found clues and evidence of the Qin Family colluding with the United Front. I would like to report this to you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression showed no change, but Secretary Bai beside him looked at Qiu Tu with a surprised expression.


    Qiu Tu pretended not to notice Secretary Bai''s expression and just quietly looked at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen was silent for a moment before asking in a flat voice, "You found the evidence in just three days?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Yes."


    After speaking, he added, "If you don''t believe me, you could call Director Qin Zhengguang to confront me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen seemed much more interested.


    He shifted his gaze to Secretary Bai and inquired, "What''s my schedule coming up?"


    Secretary Bai bowed slightly, "Bureau Chief, you have a mid-level meeting in 10 minutes, and in one hour, the Special Service Department is scheduled to give you a summary report."


    Yan Chen pondered for a moment, then said, "Let''s cancel that meeting."


    "Also, call Qin Zhengguang here."


    Secretary Bai bowed, "Yes."


    Having said that, he turned to leave.


    At this moment, Yan Chen spoke again, "Right, summon Jia Shu as well. After all, this involves their Political Department."


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai nodded again, "Yes."


    After Secretary Bai left, only Qiu Tu and Yan Chen remained in the office.


    Qiu Tu was looking at Yan Chen but his mind was on the information Qin Shuman had drunkenly leaked to him the night before.


    According to Qin Shuman''s account, Yan Chen had indeed experienced a Cataclysm Awakening and was at least a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened.


    No one knew the specifics of his Cataclysmic path, but from some of his usual behaviors and interests, it was very likely that it was "Life" or "Immortality."


    And his own abilities were probably related to darkness or death.


    These types of paths and abilities were the most dangerous and the most prone to "Degeneration." That''s why the Security Department was secretly monitoring and investigating Yan Chen.


    Having learned this information, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised; on the contrary, he felt that Qin Shuman must be hiding something from him.


    After all... merely "suspecting Degeneration," and the Security Department conducting a private investigation of a high-ranking official was quite exaggerated.


    Qiu Tu suspected that this was likely related to the special privileges of the Security Department or some characteristics of Cataclysmics.....


    ....


    As time ticked by, two minutes quickly passed, and a knock was heard on the office door. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With Yan Chen''s low "Come in," Secretary Bai, Jia Shu, and Qin Zhengguang entered the room.


    They first greeted Yan Chen, and then their gazes fell on Qiu Tu.


    Jia Shu was fine, his gaze merely one of interest, his eyes seemingly smiling but not quite. But Qin Zhengguang was different, he stared angrily at Qiu Tu, his eyes as if they could spit fire.


    Clearly... both of them were already aware of the matter at hand.


    Seeing that everyone had arrived, Yan Chen, leaning back in his chair, eyes landing on Qiu Tu, said in a hoarse voice, "Report."


    "Yes!" Qiu Tu responded, then he first glanced at Qin Zhengguang, then at Jia Shu, and finally took out several documents from the file and said, "Bureau Chief, a few days ago I was ordered to protect Miss Shuman in her return to the Qin Family for a family visit."


    "Unexpectedly, I received an anonymous tip that night."


    "The tip-off stated that the Qin Family was colluding with anti-government organizations."


    "It detailed not only the Qin Family''s secret transportation of drugs, weapons, and other controlled resources to anti-government organizations but also recorded instances of the anti-government organization cooperating with the Qin Family to gain merits, helping the Qin Family to expand their influence in Xinjie City."


    Upon hearing such severe accusations from Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang''s face turned green with rage. His eyes ablaze, he bellowed at Qiu Tu, "You''re slandering me! Who put you up to framing the Qin Family?"


    His voice caused the office to "buzz" with the reverberation.


    Qiu Tu wanted to defend himself, but before he could even speak, Jia Shu next to him began to jokingly refute on his behalf, "Director Qin, no need to be so agitated. Whatever issues you have can wait until after Qiu Tu has finished his report."


    "We''re all on the same side here. Surely we wouldn''t wrong you, would we?"


    Jia Shu was not only Yan Chen''s right-hand man and one of the top nine officials of the Investigation Bureau but also a middle-management personnel with privileges who came down from the Sanctuary. Qin Zhengguang dared to vent at Qiu Tu, but he wouldn''t dare to provoke Jia Shu, thus he had no choice but to press his lips together in silence.


    However, although he was silent, his gaze towards Qiu Tu was filled with unadulterated murderous intent.


    The Qin Family was no small force but a prominent, widespread family within the entirety of Xinjie City.


    For a power group of such level, not to mention vague and elusive clues, even with conclusive evidence, dealing with them would be very troublesome and complicated, with actions affecting the whole body.


    Therefore, even if Qiu Tu''s evidence was sufficient, the Qin Family was most likely not going to fall.


    When the Qin Family recuperated, what awaited Qiu Tu would be their relentless retaliation....

 Chapter 43 Playing the Reverse Game

    And if the evidence in Qiu Tu''s hands isn''t sufficient, that would make things even easier...Without the Qin Family even lifting a finger, he would directly ensure that Qiu Tu has no place to be buried when he dies!


    At this moment, as if having guessed Qin Zhengguang''s inner thoughts, Qiu Tu continued with a smile in his report, "After receiving these allegations, I did not act rashly but instead reported to you, Bureau Chief, requesting reinforcement."


    "You approved my investigation that very night and sent reinforcements."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Zhengguang''s heart skipped a beat. He covertly glanced at Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness, and suddenly realized that he might have misjudged the situation.


    That Qiu Tu dared to investigate this matter clearly indicated someone was instructing him, and the most likely candidates were Yan Chen, Secretary Bai, or Jia Shu.


    Although so far, he couldn''t figure out what the relationship was exactly between Qiu Tu and these three individuals.


    But it was certain that Qiu Tu was closely related to these three, and the masterminds behind this operation also seemed to be shadowed by their figures...


    ''What if they want to go against the Qin Family, what to do?''


    Thinking of this frightening possibility, Qin Zhengguang''s face darkened, and his hand involuntarily clenched.


    Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Zhengguang and continued, "After receiving reinforcement, I didn''t waste any time but immediately directed the reinforcements to investigate these leads."


    "Very quickly, I obtained quite a lot of relevant evidence."


    "We not only found warehouses where the Qin Family was secretly storing contraband drugs, letters of contact with anti-government organizations but also tracked and eavesdropped on the entire process of the Qin Family''s dealings with the United Front."


    "Even... we found evidence of the Qin Family illegally releasing members of anti-government organizations."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang turned pale.


    He knew trouble had arisen; the Qin Family must have a mole, otherwise, Qiu Tu couldn''t possibly have found so many key leads and pieces of evidence in just a few days.


    And what''s more terrifying was, he realized... he was finished.


    With so many issues found, the Qin Family couldn''t possibly get through this unscathed.


    Even if the Investigation Bureau and City Hall wouldn''t annihilate them due to the Qin Family''s deep roots, the Qin Family would still need to offer a scapegoat after paying a huge price in order to calm this matter!


    And considering the evidence that Qiu Tu had gathered, who could be more suitable as a scapegoat than him, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau?


    The family, in order to save itself, would certainly sacrifice him to preserve the others!


    Thinking of this, Qin Zhengguang felt his mouth dry, his legs weak, and even a ringing in his ears. He felt as if the sounds around him were getting further and further away, and he was becoming less and less able to hear clearly...


    And in that moment of daze, he faintly heard Qiu Tu say.... "And after two days of investigation, coupled with the inquiry of Director Qin this morning, we have basically confirmed that Master Qin Si, also known as Qin Jinsheng, is the mastermind behind everything."


    "After Old Master Qin...."


    In that instant, Qin Zhengguang felt his mind go blank.


    Who?


    Who is the mastermind behind the scenes?


    Not me? It''s the Fourth Master??


    In that moment, Qin Zhengguang felt his thoughts rapidly crystallize, and even the surrounding sounds seemed much clearer.


    Then he heard Qiu Tu continue, "After Old Master Qin''s death, when the Qin siblings divided the family assets, Master Qin Si inherited the underground brothel, gambling dens, usury, and other illicit industries."


    "Because of the nature of these industries, he came into contact with members of the United Front, and then he discovered that this was an opportunity to make a fortune!"


    "So, he secretly collected drugs under the guise of Director Qin and Commissioner Qin Heng, and sold them at a high price to the United Front."


    "What''s more, when settling accounts, he wouldn''t accept currency from the United Front but instead demanded that they scavenge for people in the Disaster Zone to settle the debts with human lives."


    "Among them, girls in their teens or early twenties were sent to the Underground Brothel; boys aged two or three were taken to be trained as enforcers."


    At this point, Qin Zhengguang''s mood had gradually calmed down.


    He listened to Qiu Tu''s narration, knowing that Qiu Tu indeed had a lot of criminal evidence against the Qin Family.


    Although this evidence wasn''t enough to destroy the Qin Family, it was sufficient to cause them serious harm and make him, the second-in-command of the Qin Family, the scapegoat.


    But... Qiu Tu had raised the stakes so high, only to let them down gently, merely demanding that Fourth Master come out and take the blame.


    This was a path he had never considered.


    Thinking this, Qin Zhengguang looked at Qiu Tu with a complicated gaze, trying to figure out what game Qiu Tu was playing.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also happened to look towards him.


    Upon making eye contact with Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang''s eyes flickered with guilt.


    Then he heard Qiu Tu say, "Director Qin, I recall this morning, when I was in the car informing you of everything, you were also very shocked. You then strictly told me not to worry about your pride and to definitely investigate thoroughly without any leniency!"


    "Moreover, you said that you and Commissioner Qin had prohibited Fourth Master from engaging in those illicit industries right from the start when Xinjie City was established. But it turned out he had only pretended to heed your advice and was secretly still involved! Now that such a huge issue has arisen, it''s completely his own fault!"


    "You said that you would definitely be just and not conflate family ties with justice, making him personally hand over the evidence and then delivering him to the Investigation Bureau to be punished accordingly!" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And to prevent the Qin Family from repeating the same mistakes and also to facilitate the Investigation Bureau''s investigation, you would hand over all the involved drugs, resources, industries, and any other potential grey-area industries belonging to the Qin Family to the Bureau for a comprehensive examination."


    "Do you remember saying all this?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang gave him a subtly observant glance.


    If he remembered correctly, Qiu Tu had slept all the way in the car, not exchanging a single word with him!


    So... were these Qiu Tu''s conditions?


    To get through this ordeal, did he need to furnish all the complete evidence and have Fourth Master personally confess?


    As for those black and grey industries, they were clearly intended as a tribute to Yan Chen and other higher-ups in the Bureau.


    The conditions weren''t low, but... they were already much better than the outcome Qin Zhengguang had originally anticipated.


    Therefore, Qin Zhengguang readily agreed. With a composed expression, he said in a low voice, "I remember."


    After uttering these words, he couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu again.


    As their gazes met, he caught a fleeting smile in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    For that instant, he felt awkward standing so exposed before Qiu Tu, but... he was also grateful. So, he looked away from Qiu Tu''s gaze, pretending not to see anything.


    After pinning the blame on Fourth Master Qin and taking the pressure off Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu then turned to Yan Chen and said,


    "Bureau Chief, while the Qin Family is indeed a major clan and both Commissioner Qin and Director Qin are influential figures in Xinjie City, bringing Fourth Master in for questioning directly could have some adverse effects."


    "Therefore, what do you think about giving Director Qin some time to bring all the evidence and Fourth Master himself to the Investigation Bureau, is that acceptable?"

 Chapter 44 Secretary Bais Astonishment (7000 words, please follow)

    As Qiu Tu''s voice trailed off, the entire room instantly fell into silence.All eyes within the room were cast towards Yan Chen.


    This matter had significant implications, not only involving the Qin Family, a major clan deeply rooted in Xinjie City, but also pertaining to the Anti-government Armed Forces, and even other forces intricately linked to the Qin Family.


    Therefore, only Yan Chen, the highest-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau, could make the decision.


    At this moment, Yan Chen, concealed in darkness, had his eyes slightly shut, his fingers gently tapping on the backrest of the chair, "tap... tap... tap..."


    The crisp tapping echoed in everyone''s ears, but each person perceived it differently.


    Especially Qin Zhengguang, who felt as though his heart was about to leap out of his chest with each tap.


    He clearly understood Yan Chen''s meaning. Hurriedly bowing his head, he offered new terms, "Bureau Chief, I truly did not expect Fourth Brother to do such a thing."


    "Rest assured, not only will I ensure he admits his guilt and surrenders himself, but I will also make Sure my eldest brother personally apologizes and reflects on his actions before you," he said.


    Although Qin Zhengguang spoke cautiously, everyone present was astute, so they immediately understood his implications:


    Qin Heng was the Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau, a crucial part of the government system. If Qin Heng made a mistake, he should be held accountable to the Municipal Committee, not come to Yan Chen.


    Therefore, when Qin Zhengguang said he would reflect before Yan Chen, it was clear he was promising that the Qin Family would fully align with Yan Chen.


    Upon hearing the terms Qin Zhengguang put forth, Yan Chen finally ceased the tapping of his hand, then spoke indifferently, "I have time tonight at 8 o''clock."


    That set the final deadline for the Qin Family.


    Wiping the cold sweat from his forehead, Qin Zhengguang bowed his head in acknowledgment, "Yes."


    With an agreement reached between the two men, the remaining matters were easier to handle. Qiu Tu reviewed all the other evidence and clues once again, even laying out the fact that Master Qin Si had tried to bribe him that day.


    However, in Qiu Tu''s account, the bribe from Master Qin Si was not solicited by him; it was offered by Master Qin Si himself to persuade Qiu Tu to stop his investigation.


    Thus, within just over half an hour of reporting, a complex political deal was struck.


    Qiu Tu successfully completed his mission, the Qin Family resolved their crisis, and Yan Chen gained the Qin Family''s allegiance. As for Secretary Bai... he also got to ''enjoy the show.''


    So, when leaving the office, everyone still wore relatively good expressions on their faces.


    Leaving Yan Chen''s office.


    Once the door slowly closed behind him, Qin Zhengguang, with a complex look in his eyes, turned to Qiu Tu. Ignoring Secretary Bai''s presence beside him, he murmured, "Thank you."


    Qiu Tu smiled and retorted, "If Director Qin''s thanks are merely verbal, that would be rather insincere."


    Qin Zhengguang was taken aback by Qiu Tu''s directness, leaving him in an awkward laugh as he glanced at Qiu Tu, "Don''t worry, it won''t just be words of thanks."


    Qiu Tu replied with a salute and a smile, "Then I shall thank Director Qin in advance."


    Qin Zhengguang said nothing more, giving a wry smile before shaking his head and taking the elevator down from the 12th floor.


    Although he had reached a verbal agreement with Yan Chen, the crisis for the Qin Family was not genuinely over.


    ¡ªUntil everything was finalized, verbal agreements were worth less than waste paper. So, he needed to rush back to the Qin Family and discuss with his eldest brother, then convince Master Qin Si to sacrifice himself...


    As the elevator doors closed behind Qin Zhengguang, Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu a slight nod, and understanding the signal, Qiu Tu followed Secretary Bai into the office.


    Inside the office, while casually closing the door, Secretary Bai spoke softly, "You really gave me a scare just now."


    "I thought you were really... becoming a scapegoat."


    His face was fraught with relief, "The Qin Family isn''t easy to provoke, right? They''re one of the biggest snakes in Xinjie City. Even the Bureau Chief has to be cautious dealing with them."


    "Moreover, Xinjie is in its infancy and needs the full support of all families. The Sanctuary must also ''buy the horse''s bones for a thousand gold'', setting an example for other yet-to-develop Disaster Zones." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, the Qin Family won''t fall, nor can it be allowed to fall. This is a political necessity."


    "So, when I heard you discovered evidence of the Qin Family colluding with the United Front, I really sweated bullets."


    "Thankfully, you were smart. Although you raised the issue high, you let it down gently. You showed the Qin Family your evidence and left the handling of the matter to them. Most importantly, you saved Qin Zhengguang."


    At this, Secretary Bai looked at Qiu Tu with satisfaction,


    "If it weren''t for your rhetoric in turning the situation around, the Qin Family would have 100% sacrificed Qin Zhengguang."


    "If that happened, with the Qin Family deeply hurt, they would certainly harbor resentment against you. Once they caught their breath, they definitely wouldn''t let you off easy."


    "But now, you''ve saved Qin Zhengguang, and things are different. You''ve been gracious to Qin Zhengguang, so even if the Qin Family is displeased with you, he can help withstand some of the pressure."


    "He is the second-most prominent figure in the Qin Family, with a pivotal status."


    "Plus, this opportunity allows the Qin Family to cut off all their black and gray industries in one fell swoop, thoroughly whitewashing themselves and eliminating future worries."


    "Who knows... after this ordeal, the Qin Family might even be grateful to you."


    "So, you..." Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu a profound look, commenting, "You''ve done a decent job. You have improved."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s analysis, Qiu Tu chuckled twice and humbly replied, "Chief, you flatter me. I was simply reporting the facts. I didn''t think that far."


    Secretary Bai pointed at Qiu Tu, laughing and chiding, "You, you just can''t take a compliment."

 Chapter 44 Secretary Bais Astonishment (7000 words, please follow)_2

    Having said this, his expression returned to calm. Then he took a deep look at Qiu Tu and reminded him softly, "However... Qiu Tu, you must not take it lightly....""Although the Bureau Chief is very satisfied with your mission this time, there is an unbridgeable gulf between you two..."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s face also became serious.


    Secretary Bai didn''t finish his sentence, but both of them understood what was left unsaid....


    However, Qiu Tu''s expression eased up in the next moment.


    After all... his plan was not finished yet.


    Using the Qin Family''s internal strife to complete his mission was just the first step of his plan. He still had bigger schemes to unfold....


    ...


    Meanwhile, in Yan Chen''s dimly lit office.


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, his figure faintly visible in the darkness with only his facial contour slightly illuminated under the light.


    He sat with his hands crossed over his lower abdomen, his gaze indifferent as he looked at Jia Shu and asked softly, "What do you think?"


    Jia Shu responded with a chuckle, "A stratagem that kills multiple birds with one stone."


    He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on his nose and analyzed, "If I am not mistaken, the person who provided Qiu Tu with this intelligence and clues must be Old Fourth Qin."


    "And these pieces of information and clues point to Qin Zhengguang."


    "It is through collaboration with Old Fourth Qin that Qiu Tu was able to grasp the various issues of Qin Zhengguang so quickly."


    "But after clarifying the problems with Qin Zhengguang, he found himself at a dead end."


    "If he supports Old Fourth Qin in trying to take down Qin Zhengguang, it would not only take a long time, but... he would likely face various forms of backlash and retaliation from the Qin Family."


    "So instead, he cleverly changed his approach. He threw out the bait directly, letting the Qin Family fight amongst themselves, choosing their own scapegoat. Whichever side wins, he wins."


    "By doing this, not only has he significantly reduced the enmity towards him within the Qin Family, but he has also caused internal division, preventing them from uniting their strength. He might even have won over the goodwill of some within the Qin Family."


    "Most importantly, in front of Qin Zhengguang, he deliberately asked for your opinion."


    "On the surface, it seems like he is showing respect to you, but actually, he is further passing the buck."


    "If you agree to let the Qin Family resolve their issues internally, then not only do they owe you a favor, but they also owe him one. If you disagree, then their animosity might be redirected towards you."


    "After all, he has shown leniency to the Qin Family, but you are not willing to let go. Naturally, you would become the most hated person to the Qin Family."


    Having listened to this, Yan Chen chuckled twice, his voice growing deep as he said, "It''s more than that...."


    "This Qiu Tu really has a clear insight into things."


    At this point, Yan Chen spoke with a complicated gaze, "The reason he sold out Old Fourth Qin and kept Qin Zhengguang safe is that he knew I would definitely protect Qin Zhengguang."


    "Outsiders only know that Xinjie City has just been established and the Qin Family must not fall. But... can the Investigation Bureau afford to fall?"


    "Qin Zhengguang is the head of my Investigation Bureau, and if he has collusion with United Front, how would outsiders view the Investigation Bureau, how would they view me?"


    "Would City Hall take the opportunity to cause trouble?"


    "There are far too many unknowns...."


    "So, the Qin Family can have issues, but Qin Zhengguang cannot have issues."


    "If Qin Zhengguang has no issues, the Investigation Bureau uncovering the problems within the Qin Family would be a merit."


    "If Qin Zhengguang has issues, even if the Investigation Bureau uncovers them, at best it would be seen as offsetting the good with the bad?"


    After finishing, he paused for a moment before summarizing, "One must understand that during this sensitive period, the Qin Family can have trouble, but the Investigation Bureau, City Hall must not make a mistake! The choice of people for the Sanctuary must also be flawless...."


    Hearing this, Jia Shu smiled and bowed, "Bureau Chief is wise."


    Yan Chen paid no mind to Jia Shu''s flattery. He felt a bit uncomfortable in his throat after speaking so much, so he picked up the tea on the desk and took a sip.


    After moistening his throat, he opened his mouth to ask again, "What do you think of Qiu Tu?"


    Jia Shu assessed him with a smile that was not quite a smile, "A talent. Ambitious."


    Speaking of which, he glanced at Yan Chen, "If it weren''t for the entanglement with Qin Shuman, perhaps he could be enlisted for our purposes."


    Yan Chen remained silent, his eyes fathomless.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu further evaluated, "However, he would still serve as a good knife."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen said in a low tone, "Be careful the knife doesn''t turn on you...."


    Jia Shu laughed, "Indeed. His ambition is too great."


    "He dares to use the case funds to buy people''s hearts and even dragged a First Level Detective down with him."


    "If not controlled, who knows what chaos he might cause."


    Yan Chen hummed in acknowledgment, "Then what do you plan to do next?"


    Jia Shu adjusted the glasses on his nose, his eyes shimmering behind the lenses, "Simple. Go with the flow."


    "He has found evidence of the Qin Family''s crimes, which likewise confirms Qin Shuman''s guilt."


    "For such a spy planted by the United Front by your side, the Political Department would naturally take her into custody and then interrogate her thoroughly."


    "As for Qiu Tu...."


    "The Investigation Bureau is in its inception, and many positions are vacant. He has made such great achievements, he certainly deserves a promotion."


    "I think he should be promoted from the grassroots team to an office job, as Deputy Staff, where he can fully utilize his talents."


    "For instance... the Interrogation Section of the Political Department."


    The room was pervaded by darkness, as if it swallowed all traces of light. Only a few weak rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting phantom-like outlines on the furniture....


    .....


    Leaving Yan Chen''s office, Jia Shu wore a smile as if he had encountered something extremely joyful.


    However, that good mood evaporated after he met Secretary Bai.


    "You''ve been waiting for me?" Jia Shu said to Secretary Bai, who stood at the entrance to his office, with a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Secretary Bai, with a touch of coldness, produced two notes and handed them to him, "This is Qiu Tu''s funding request. I need your signature for the records."


    Jia Shu took the notes, glanced at them, and smiled. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    On the note was an instruction from Qiu Tu to convert bribes from Master Qin Si into a personal bonus.


    This was the request Qiu Tu had made to Yan Chen about the bribe from Master Qin Si while in the office.


    Yan Chen obviously didn''t care about such a small amount of money, especially during a key reporting moment, so he nodded in agreement.


    Unexpectedly, Qiu Tu wasn''t satisfied with just verbal approval; he had also drafted a formal paper request.


    Without much concern, Jia Shu picked up a pen, signed his name on it, handed one copy to Secretary Bai for the records and kept one for himself. Then he scrutinized Secretary Bai and said with a half-smile, "You seem to have a special interest in Qiu Tu."


    Secretary Bai collected the notes without a change in expression, then turned and returned to his own office.


    The office door shut, leaving Jia Shu alone in the echoing corridor.


    "Hehehe..." Jia Shu chuckled softly, his gaze flickering with an indescribable light, "Still the same old temper, I see."


    As he spoke, his eyes seemed to redden considerably but were quickly subdued.


    Then he took one more lingering look at Secretary Bai''s office door, shrugged nonchalantly, and humming a tune, he stepped back to his own office.


    Back in his office, he filed the request and then opened a drawer, taking out a document to sign a promotion order.


    The content of the promotion order was simple: to appoint First Level Detective Qiu Tu as the Deputy Chief of the Interrogation Section, ordering him to take up his new post the following day.


    After writing the promotion order, Jia Shu signed another document... to arrest Qin Shuman.


    After signing both documents, Jia Shu did not issue them immediately.


    He stood up, walked to the window, hands in pockets, his narrow eyes peering outside through the glasses.


    For some reason... he felt a slight unease in his heart, as if something was about to happen.

 Chapter 45 Promotion! Envy from Everyone (7000 requests for follow-up reading!)

    ```With these thoughts, Jia Shu stood by the window for a while and went over the whole matter in his mind once again.


    A moment later, he returned to his desk and amended Qiu Tu''s appointment, changing "starting from tomorrow" to "effective immediately."


    He then temporarily held back Qin Shuman''s arrest warrant, planning to issue it after the Qin Family had dealt with their own matters...


    Ultimately, he opted for a more cautious approach...


    .....


    "My God! Another promotion?"


    "Who?"


    "Who else but Chief Qiu."


    "Ah? Chief Qiu got promoted again?"


    In an era with radios and vehicles, the speed of command transmission was very fast.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t even returned to the Qin Family before his promotion notice had already been sent to the Security Team.


    So upon his arrival at the Security Team''s base, what he heard were the many detectives'' discussions.


    "Chief Qiu has been promoted two ranks in one week!"


    "He''s heading for an office job already? I''m so envious."


    "From now on, he''s a big shot. Not the same as us anymore."


    Because he faintly heard his own name, Qiu Tu beckoned a Special Service Detective over and asked, "What happened? Who got promoted?"


    The detective Qiu Tu had singled out scurried over and saluted him respectfully amidst the envious gazes of others. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After that, he whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief, it''s you who''ve been promoted! Congratulations on becoming a Deputy Staff Director!"


    Hearing what the detective said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but pause.


    Promoted? Deputy Staff Director?


    What are Yan Chen and Jia Shu up to?


    Though he was hesitant inside, he managed to show a happy expression on his face.


    He smiled and patted the detective on the shoulder encouragingly, "Keep up the good work, and you''ll be a Deputy Staff Director in the future too!"


    The detective blushed with excitement upon hearing Qiu Tu''s encouragement and quickly saluted again, "Thank you, Chief!"


    And once he returned to the midst of the other detectives, he instantly became the center of attention, with the others eagerly questioning what Qiu Tu had said to him, whether there was any mention of taking him under his wing.


    Obviously, with Qiu Tu''s promotion, the attitudes of these Special Service detectives toward him had once again undergone a dramatic change...


    As mentioned earlier when introducing Lin Zuo, it seemed like there was only one rank between a First Level Detective and a Deputy Staff Director, but in reality, it was a world of difference.


    A Deputy Staff Director could not only transfer detectives they liked to their own department so they wouldn''t have to do fieldwork anymore, but they also had the authority to recommend promotions below First Level Detective and had a decisive role in selecting detectives.


    Add to this that Xinjie City was newly established and the Investigation Bureau''s middle-management positions were not yet full, so a Deputy Staff Director entering a leadership position had ample room for advancement.


    So if they could gain the favor of a young Deputy Staff Director like Qiu Tu, it could be a life-changing opportunity for those lower-ranking detectives.


    Having been through several days in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu also had a comprehensive understanding of the power structure and thus knew what those detectives were yearning for.


    However, he hadn''t even seen his own promotion fax yet, hadn''t figured out what moves Yan Chen and Jia Shu had made, so he was not in the mood to recruit these detectives.


    He called over a detective to ask for Fang Ming''s whereabouts and went straight to him.


    As expected, the promotion fax was in Fang Ming''s hands.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come to him, Fang Ming handed over the promotion fax with a complex expression on his face.


    Clearly, even someone with a strong background like him found Qiu Tu''s rapid ascension somewhat unbelievable.


    Qiu Tu took the promotion fax, read it carefully, and then couldn''t help but curl his lips into a smile.


    ''Deputy Director of the Political Department''s Interrogation Section? Effective immediately? Handover work to Cao Dabiao?''


    This fax seemed fine at a glance, but upon closer scrutiny, it revealed a lot of hidden implications.


    A smile played across Qiu Tu''s eyes,


    ''It seems like Yan Chen and the others have sensed the danger, so they want to act in advance to separate me and the Qin Family...''


    ''Too bad it''s too late. The trap has been set...''


    At this point, as Qiu Tu finished reading the report, Fang Ming sighed softly and said, "Your promotion speed is really like being on a rocket."


    Qiu Tu tucked the fax away and asked with a laugh, "What''s the matter? Jealous?"


    Fang Ming unusually maintained his composure at such a time. He first nodded, admitting his envy, "Of course, who wouldn''t be?"


    He then said to Qiu Tu, "But... I''d advise you to be cautious."


    Qiu Tu looked at him.


    He said calmly, "If you''re not a secret child of some big shot from the Sanctuary, or if you haven''t gotten ahold of leverages over some high-ups at the Investigation Bureau. Or perhaps, caught the eye of some bigwig''s daughter..."


    "Then you''d better make sure if those above aren''t setting you up."


    He continued, "You''re too young, and your promotion speed is too rapid. We ordinary detectives might only be envious, which won''t impact you."


    "But what about those at the same rank as you, the other Deputy Directors or Directors? Could they affect you? Might they also have an issue with it in their hearts?"


    ```


    "You should know that many of them are heads of various medium to large forces in Xinjie City, and it''s by seeking refuge in the Sanctuary that they''ve managed to secure their current positions after the establishment of Xinjie City."


    "And yet you surpassed them in just a week''s time...."


    Fang Ming didn''t finish his sentence, but his meaning was crystal clear.


    Upon hearing his words, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment, then reached out to pat Fang Ming''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry, I''ve got it under control."


    Seeing this, Fang Ming didn''t try to persuade him further, only reminding him, "Stay safe."


    Qiu Tu hummed in response and then said, "Since the order has been given from above, I''m going to go and hand over the Security Team."


    After finishing his statement, he lifted his leg, ready to leave.


    However... just as he took one step, he stopped again.


    He hesitated for a second, then with suggestive intent, he said, "I remember you don''t get along with Cao Dabiao, do you?"


    "It seems like you''ve always looked down on his carefree demeanor."


    "Now that you two have to work together, watch your temper and don''t start any conflicts as soon as he takes over. If you get kicked out of the Security Team, it won''t look good for anyone."


    Fang Ming: ??


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words left Fang Ming completely baffled.


    Since when did he have bad relations with Cao Dabiao? And when was his temper ever bad?


    Although he looked down on Cao Dabiao... there were plenty of others he disapproved of. Cao Dabiao was just one among many.


    Besides, his temper had always been good. Hadn''t he been provoked by Qiu Tu so many times and yet remained so composed?


    As he thought about it, a bolt of lightning flashed through Fang Ming''s mind. He abruptly looked up at Qiu Tu.


    But Qiu Tu merely gave him a meaningful look before he walked away....


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Fang Ming swallowed nervously, understanding....


    At noon, Qiu Tu and Cao Dabiao carried out the work handover in the presence of the Security Team. Then, skipping lunch, Qiu Tu went straight to the Political Department''s Interrogation Section to report.


    That afternoon, a fierce argument erupted between Fang Ming and Cao Dabiao over Fang Ming''s dissatisfaction with Cao Dabiao''s command.


    Because the matter escalated to a point of no return, Fang Ming and his team of detectives were reassigned back to the Bureau by the Special Service Department, replaced by a new team of Special Service Detectives for assistance.


    However, what no one knew was that during the chaotic handover period, Shen Lingshuang had also been secretly moved out of the Qin Family''s residence.


    Shen Lingshuang had originally been sent to the Qin Family in secret. Without Qiu Tu or Fang Ming saying anything, and with no investigation from above, Cao Dabiao and the new First Level Detective from the Special Service Department had no knowledge of her....


    .....


    At 5 p.m., Qiu Tu left the Investigation Bureau and returned to his home.


    But the moment he unlocked and opened the door, he was stunned.


    His home was completely transformed:


    The previously somewhat messy living room now looked brand new, the sofa neatly arranged, the miscellaneous items on the table tidily organized, and the floor, tabletop, and even the windows were cleaned to a shine, glistening with cleanliness.


    If not for the familiar items still in the room, he might have doubted he had entered the wrong house.


    "You''re back~?" A crisp and pleasant voice came from the direction of the bedroom.


    Possibly having heard the door open, a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl emerged from the bedroom. It seemed she had just taken a shower; her hair was still damp, adorned with sparkling droplets, her skin as creamy and smooth as porcelan with a healthy rosy hue.


    She wore one of Qiu Tu''s white shirts, which hung loose on her small frame, barely concealing her fair jade-like legs beneath.


    Yet she seemed unconcerned, merely tilting her head slightly and looking at Qiu Tu with bright and large eyes.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat momentarily quickened.


    Nonetheless, he swiftly adjusted his emotions and, glancing over the tidy room, he asked, "Did you clean all this?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded with a smile. She was naturally at an age of innocence, and her untainted smile, sunny as a spring day, was infectiously bright.


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment, then proceeded to close the door and remove his belongings as he asked, "Is everything ready?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu address serious matters, the smile on Shen Lingshuang''s face faded, and she nodded, "It''s ready."


    After speaking, she gestured with her hand and led Qiu Tu into the bedroom.


    The previously cramped bedroom had been cleared out, even the bed tipped on its side, leaving all the space for a Magic Potion brewing setup and various ingredients.


    This was something Qiu Tu had arranged for Eagle and Ah-Kun to purchase from the black market over the past two days.


    Having inspected the brewing equipment, Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer in the upper-left corner.


    The countdown that remained for several hours this morning to "make Cataclysmic Potion" had now hit zero, changing into a small, trembling Treasure Chest.


    After confirming everything was ready, Qiu Tu turned to Shen Lingshuang and said, "Well, since it''s all set, let''s begin."


    Hearing Qiu Tu say this, Shen Lingshuang nodded vigorously, then moved to the equipment to start brewing the "Cataclysmic Potion."


    Qiu Tu stood silently behind her for a few minutes, making sure no new Crisis Warning popped up, before he finally let his guard down.


    He left the bedroom and entered the small living room. Standing by the neat window, he looked outside at the prairie fire-like sunset and the blazing clouds, slightly lost in thought....


    ''The Qin Family must be starting now as well....''


    ----


    The new month should see an increase in update speed (around 7000 words a day), and I hope everyone will keep up with the reading.

 Chapter 46 Would you like to be my first love? (7000 words, please follow)

    At this moment, the Qin Family''s main house.Just as Qiu Tu had predicted, the members of Qin Family''s Fifth House had all gathered and were quarreling non-stop behind closed doors!


    Among them, the most intense argument was between Qin Zhengguang and Master Qin Si.


    At first, when Master Qin Si received the notification that the family was going to have a meeting to discuss important matters concerning the future of the Qin Family, he was overjoyed, thinking that since Qiu Tu had taken the money, he indeed did the job.


    However, he was shocked when he learned from Qin Zhengguang that Qiu Tu had pinned all the evidence he had collected so painstakingly on him.


    At that moment, he wanted desperately to interrupt Qin Zhengguang, then question him, "What? What did you say? Qiu Tu said I did all those things? Has Qiu Tu gone mad?"


    But... he didn''t dare.


    After all, up to this point, none of the Qin houses knew that it was he who had betrayed the Qin Family.


    Through the years, despite the heavy internal conflicts, the Qin Family had always observed one bottom line, which was to present a united front externally.


    If he exposed that it was he who had sold out the Qin Family''s evidence to Qiu Tu, he guessed he wouldn''t even need the Investigation Bureau to take action; he would immediately become the target of all.


    Thus, all he could do was sit on the chair in a daze and listen to Qin Zhengguang recount the events that had happened in Yan Chen''s office.


    But, as soon as Qin Zhengguang got to the part where he was about to take the fall for all the crimes, Master Qin Si couldn''t sit still anymore.


    With his belly out, he put on an incredulous face and looked at Qin Zhengguang, "Big brother! I didn''t hear you wrong, did I?"


    "You plan to let me take the fall for all the crimes?"


    "How many lives do I have to take on so many crimes!"


    "I''m your own brother for God''s sake!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qin Zhengguang''s face was also filled with conflict, and he said gravely, "Fourth brother, really, this is beyond your brother''s control."


    "Right now, Qiu Tu is pinning it all on you. Even if we offer up some other branch of the family, the Bureau won''t believe it."


    "Since you''re going to be implicated anyway, isn''t it better to take the blame than for everyone to be ruined together?"


    Master Qin Si slammed the table with a "pah" and stood up, glaring at Qin Zhengguang, bellowing, "What kind of talk is that!"


    "Are you going to just watch your own brother be thrown into the flames?"


    As he spoke, he swept a glance at Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, seated at the head seat, then looked at Qin Zhengguang again, and said in frustration, "I''ve figured it out long ago. Ever since our father died, you and the eldest brother have looked down on me and third brother."


    "After all, you are both political bigwigs, influential figures in Xinjie City. While me and third brother are just businessmen. Especially me, who deals with the black market." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''ve always looked down on me, and I''ve endured it because that''s how our father divided the family. But now that something has happened, you still want to push me out to take the blame? I won''t accept this!"


    Seeing the two of them arguing, Patriarch Qin Heng, seated at the main seat, covered his mouth with a cough twice, then said in a deep voice, "Alright, let''s all say a little less."


    After saying that, he looked towards Master Qin Si, and spoke gently, "Fourth brother. Second brother has reported this to me at noon. We have discussed it for a long time, and this is really the best outcome."


    "Of course, I know this matter has indeed wronged you."


    "But, this is for the sake of the family, isn''t it?"


    Seeing that Master Qin Si was about to argue again, Qin Heng raised his hand to gesture him to pause, adding, "Don''t worry. We are aware of the contributions you have made for the family."


    "So, as long as you weather this storm, I guarantee your two sons will hold a position of at least section chief at the City Hall or in the Investigation Bureau once they come of age."


    "As for your assets, one-third of the legitimate business in third brother''s hands will be divided to ensure your family''s future expenses."


    "Regarding your safety... when I meet with Yan Chen tonight, I will secure a guarantee for you."


    "Guarantee that you won''t be tortured and that your life will be free from any danger."


    "So, for now, go to jail for the family. Once the dust settles and we find an appropriate opportunity, we will find a way to get you out."


    Hearing Qin Heng''s words, Master Qin Si''s face changed rapidly.


    But just then, Qin Shu from the Qin Family''s Third House suddenly stood up. He expressed his dissatisfaction, "Wait a minute. Big brother. Why should I pay for the crimes that second brother and Master Qin Si have committed?"


    "I''ve been conducting my business just fine, so why is a third of my family''s business suddenly being divided away?"


    "I still have to give half my income to the family every year. What will I have left?"


    "I do not agree with this!"


    And so, a new round of quarreling began¡­


    But what no one knew was... while they were all caught up in their tumultuous argument, Master Qin Si''s communicator suddenly vibrated twice.


    Master Qin Si discreetly took out the communicator to have a look.


    At that instant, his face turned exceedingly grim, but it quickly returned to normal...


    ¡­


    The process of concocting the Cataclysmic Potion is troublesome yet simple.


    The difficult part is that the Pharmacist must understand all the Cataclysm Materials. They must also know the timing and interactions of the "Star, Moon, King, and Minister" medicine categories, thoroughly acquainted with when to add which ingredient, when to stir, and when to take the Potion off the fire.


    The simple part is that once these steps are memorized, for the most part, the brewing is fully automated and doesn''t require the Pharmacist to keep constant watch.


    Thus Shen Lingshuang had ample time to pester Qiu Tu.


    After setting the alarm for the next stirring, Shen Lingshuang tiptoed into the living room and tilted her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was sitting on the couch at that moment, with his hands crossed behind his head, seemingly deep in thought.


    Shen Lingshuang silently watched him for a while and got bored, so she took the initiative and called out, "Hey, Qiu Tu~"


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses and turned his head towards her.

 Chapter 46 Do You Want to Be My First Love? (7000 words, please follow)_2

    Shen Lingshuang, "What are you thinking about?"Qiu Tu replied perfunctorily, "Thinking about stuff."


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes wandered, "Then how about we chat for a bit?"


    Qiu Tu asked, "Chat about what?"


    Shen Lingshuang grinned, revealing two adorable little canines, "Do you have a girlfriend?"


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then gave her a meaningful glance, "That depends on whether you want an opportunity or an answer."


    Qiu Tu''s smooth talk nearly fried Shen Lingshuang''s CPU.


    Her eyes glazed over, her brain whirring rapidly, and then... she didn''t get it.


    She leaned in, cautiously asking, "Then have you had a girlfriend before?"


    Images of the dozen or so girlfriends from his past life flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind, and then... he shook his head, "No."


    "They were just good friends I used to play with."


    "They served as love mentors for a while."


    "Later on, our values didn''t align, so we stopped hanging out."


    At this point, Qiu Tu raised his eyebrows, "Why? Do you want to be my first love?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes glazed over, and her head began to emit the white steam of cognitive overload.


    She could understand every sentence spoken by Qiu Tu, but when strung together, she seemed a bit confused.


    Love mentor? Good friends to play with?


    What in the world was all this!


    Thus, she didn''t even answer Qiu Tu''s question, just covered her face and ran back to her room to continue with alchemy.


    Watching the girl beat a hasty retreat, Qiu Tu chuckled. He found it truly amusing to tease such an innocent girl.


    Then, he crossed his hands behind his head, continuing to wait patiently for the situation at the Qin Family to change....


    "Tick-tock... tick-tock..." Along with the swinging of the wall clock, time ticked away by the minute and second.


    While Shen Lingshuang was in the middle of alchemy, an urgent ringing of the communicator finally broke the silence in the room.


    "Ring ring ring!"


    Qiu Tu took the communicator out of his pocket, glanced at it, and then smiled: as expected, his wait had paid off.


    With that thought, he answered the call. Before even a greeting could be exchanged, Master Qin Si''s furious tirade burst forth from the other end, "Qiu Tu, you motherf*#%@!"


    "You son of a #*%#@!"


    "You @&#¡­!"


    Gang bosses tend to have bad tempers, so Qiu Tu didn''t mind and just quietly listened.


    After letting Master Qin Si rant for a minute, Qiu Tu spoke up during his gasping interval, "Have you finished, Fourth Master? Would you like to yell for a few more minutes?"


    "You could cuss daily, cuss monthly, but can you cuss me to death?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s recently calmed rage flared up again, "I''ll f*#% you @&#!"


    But this time, Qiu Tu didn''t indulge his tantrum, and directly hung up the communicator.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu didn''t put down the communicator, instead, he held it, counting down with a smile, "Three, two, one...."


    As the countdown ended, the ringing inevitably resumed.


    Qiu Tu answered the call once more and began to speak with a laugh, "Calm down, Fourth Master. I know you''re really angry, but don''t be angry just yet."


    "Let''s have a good talk."


    "This matter, perhaps it''s not as bad as you think."


    Perhaps Qiu Tu hanging up the call finally made Master Qin Si face reality.


    Or perhaps the venting for over a minute had finally made him less irritable.


    So he fell silent for two seconds and finally stopped cursing Qiu Tu.


    He slowly regained the composure of a big shot, then said in a heavy voice, "Qiu Tu, you''ve really played a good hand."


    "Taking my money, taking my clues, then turning around and betraying me, your heart is really dark. Aren''t you afraid of going down with me!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu "haha" laughed twice, then replied, "Fourth Master is joking."


    "The clues are ones I picked up off the ground and investigated myself; the money is your bribe to me, asking me not to investigate you; I''m an agent, you''re the head of a faction, we were never the same kind of people, there''s no such thing as betrayal."


    "All the details of our contact, I have long reported to the Bureau Chief. So... you can''t threaten me with these."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then said mockingly, "Besides, do you dare to make these matters public?"


    "You''re already in a tight spot as it is. If the Qin Family finds out that you are the insider who betrayed the family, do you still have a way to live?"


    Coming from the other end of the communicator was Master Qin Si''s heavy breathing. He took a few deep breaths, then laughed angrily, "Good, good, good. Worthy of being Agent Qiu, no, Chief Qiu! Your methods are truly exquisite."


    After speaking, he roared, "Since you''ve already betrayed me, why did you send me a text message?"


    Qiu Tu spoke with gravity, "Fourth Master, you misunderstand."


    "Actually... I never betrayed you, nor have I ever forgotten about our deal."


    "It''s just... I thought your previous idea was too fanciful. So, I switched to a different plan, that''s all."


    He said, "If I''m not mistaken, you''re probably not planning and advancing the entire scheme alone, right?"


    "Your accomplice should be Third Master, right?"


    Master Qin Si''s breathing on the other end clearly hitched.


    Qiu Tu laughed and said, "There''s no need to be surprised. No one betrayed you."


    "It''s a simple deduction."


    "Commissioner Qin''s health is poor, and he has no sons to carry on the Qin legacy."


    "That''s why Old Master Qin, before his death, paved the path for Director Qin Zhengguang and built connections with Bureau Chief Yan."


    "This way, the Qin Family would have two fallback options."


    "If Commissioner Qin could recuperate, he would continue to lead the Qin Family, with Director Qin Zhengguang supporting him."


    "If Commissioner Qin''s health did not improve, they would boost Director Qin Zhengguang to inherit the family business."


    "Old Master Qin''s plan was considered from the perspective of the entire Qin Family, but he forgot that people have their own desires."


    "You and Third Master are both Old Qin''s sons, why should only the main and second branches be potential successors while you can only play supporting roles, mere branches?!"


    "So, you don''t accept this, and you are not content!"


    "You want to be the one in control of the Qin Family! So you wanted to pull Director Qin Zhengguang down."


    "Luckily, he... also gave you this chance."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then analyzed, "Before the old master passed away, he must have warned you not to get involved with the United Front again. But the benefits of that connection with the United Front were just too significant."


    "Director Qin Zhengguang could not bear to cut off this connection."


    "Thus, you took advantage of the situation, continuing to work with the United Front while secretly gathering evidence."


    "You knew, as long as you could bring down Director Qin Zhengguang, the commissioner would inevitably have to choose another successor for the sake of the Qin Family''s future."


    "And the only direct relatives of Commissioner Qin are you and Third Master, so no matter who takes over, you both could achieve your goal."


    "However, this plan has a critical node, which is that it must be implemented during the early stages of Xinjie City''s establishment."


    "In the early days of Xinjie City, the power hierarchy was not stable, and many positions were still vacant. The Qin Family, as an established local force, still had strong influence at this time. Both City Hall and the Investigation Bureau had to give face to the Qin Family. Even if a successor were to be changed, the Qin Family could comfortably make arrangements."


    "Once these two years passed, the rule of City Hall and the Investigation Bureau would be solidified, and most positions occupied by different families. Even if you pulled down Director Qin Zhengguang, you would have a hard time securing the corresponding positions, and you might even cause the Qin Family''s decline."


    "So, you were always looking for the right opportunity and a scapegoat to bear Commissioner Qin''s wrath."


    "And then... I came into your sights."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu laughed and asked, "Am I right or wrong, Fourth Master?"


    Even in this situation, Master Qin Si on the other end of the communicator did not admit to the conspiracy. He snorted coldly and replied, "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "I called you simply because of the text you sent me."


    At this point, Master Qin Si also appropriately steered the conversation back to the matter at hand, asking, "You said in the message that you can save me?"


    S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 47 Cataclysmic Potion Refinement (7000 words, please follow!)

    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu knew that Master Qin Si had been persuaded by him and was preparing to test him.With this thought, he began to execute the last step of his plan, "Yes, I can save you."


    He said slowly, "Fourth Master, your original plan was to use the Political Department''s authority for internal supervision to pull down Qin Zhengguang."


    "But you obviously forgot the most important point: Qin Zhengguang is also a man of the Investigation Bureau."


    "At this sensitive time, how could Director Yan possibly allow a director of the Investigation Bureau to have issues?"


    "Isn''t that just giving the Municipal Committee and the military a reason to criticize him?"


    "So, even if I hadn''t betrayed you and had become your pawn to go against Qin Zhengguang, it wouldn''t have been possible to succeed! Director Yan would just suppress everything."


    "I believe you must have heard this analysis from your two brothers tonight...."


    "So, the reason I betrayed you is truly because I was forced to..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si fell silent.


    Indeed, as Qiu Tu had said. When he had refused to take the fall for the Qin Family, furiously asking why Qin Zhengguang couldn''t step forward to take the blame himself, Qin Heng had given him a lesson on the spot.


    He had learned that Yan Chen and Qin Zhengguang were on the same boat, and Yan Chen would not allow Qin Zhengguang to take the blame at this critical juncture.


    The Investigation Bureau could not afford to make mistakes!


    Sensing Master Qin Si''s silence, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a smile, and then he whispered, "So, Fourth Master...do you want to switch camps?"


    In that instant, Master Qin Si was taken aback.


    His voice, full of disbelief, came through the receiver, "Aren''t you Yan Chen''s confidant? You...?"


    Qiu Tu laughed, his eyes wide open as he told a bald-faced lie, "I am indeed Director Yan''s confidant. But...I''m certainly not Qin Zhengguang''s confidant."


    "You don''t know, but this time after I targeted the Qin Family, Qin Zhengguang was actually very grateful to me, and he even took the initiative to give me a car, along with many gifts."


    "To be honest...I''m really scared."


    Qiu Tu expressed, "Fourth Master. To be frank. If he had cursed me out or threatened me, I wouldn''t worry; after all, that would indicate Director Qin is nothing but a brave sans strategic fool."


    "But his sycophantic approach, even given me gifts... I''m very worried he''s harboring ill will and planning to settle scores with me in the future."


    "Furthermore, the Qin Family is about to lean towards the Bureau Chief and be accepted as a confidant. In the Bureau Chief''s eyes, do you think I''m more important, or is such a large Qin Family more important?"


    "So, I don''t want the Qin Family to lean towards the Bureau Chief. Or to be more precise, even if they do, there must be someone I can control."


    "For example... you."


    The contempt and threats from Qiu Tu did not anger Master Qin Si. On the contrary, it brought quite a bit of peace to his heart.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Fourth Master, I hold your damning evidence, the proof of you betraying the Qin Family. In the future, when you take charge of the Qin Family, you wouldn''t dare harm me."


    "Even if you can''t swallow this humiliation and truly plan to make a move against me, we might as well perish together."


    "We have a basis for cooperation...."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s expression changed continuously over the other side of the communicator.


    After a long moment, he asked, "Which other camp are you suggesting?"


    The smile on Qiu Tu''s face grew broader as he softly uttered two words, "The military."


    Master Qin Si''s pupils contracted slightly, his heart shocked.


    The military, the most inconspicuous of the three major powers. Even General Ye of the military kept an extremely low profile in Xinjie City.


    But... No one could disregard the presence of this department and this powerful figure.


    After all, two years ago, when he was still Colonel Ye, he led a division''s troops to station in Xinjie City under the pretense of passing through.


    Then, after having thoroughly investigated the distribution of power in the entire Xinjie City, he directly cleansed all the underground forces and dozens of families, big and small, in Xinjie City.


    At that time, rivers of blood flowed through Xinjie City, and all those who opposed the rule of the Sanctuary were genocidally destroyed.


    Afterwards, Colonel Ye was promoted to Major General Ye, and while retaining a core force of a regiment, he recruited and expanded to a division, continuing to station in Xinjie City.


    Therefore, although the City Hall is the supreme authority of Xinjie City, and the Investigation Bureau is a violent institution closely linked to most people in Xinjie City, there is no one who dares to overlook General Ye and the military...


    ''If I could really hold onto the military''s coattails, then...''


    At this thought, Master Qin Si shivered all over and suddenly realized he had almost been dazzled by the huge pie Qiu Tu was painting.


    Once he came to his senses, he couldn''t help but question, "The military? Why would the military want to protect me?"


    "Besides, the military has no authority to intervene in city governance. How can they protect me?"


    "You''re not telling me that for my sake, a discard, they would publicly confront the Investigation Bureau, are you?"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu smiled again and then said softly, "Fourth Master, are you aware of... the military''s Security Department?"


    Master Qin Si''s body jolted sharply, his face showing a realization and...excitement.


    ....


    In the next fifteen minutes, Qiu Tu vividly laid out the benefits of siding with the Security Department to Master Qin Si.


    For instance, the Security Department would protect Master Qin Si to the military''s safe house and destroy all traces, ensuring the Investigation Bureau couldn''t find any.


    This was a lot more reliable than the Qin Family''s promise to send Master Qin Si to prison.


    For example, the Security Department would arrest Qin Zhengguang based on Master Qin Si''s report, clearing the way for Master Qin Si and Third Master Qin to take over.


    For instance, the Security Department would grant a special amnesty to Master Qin Si for surrendering and reporting others, he wouldn''t be punished, and after everything was over, Master Qin Si would regain his freedom, and so on....


    After hearing the prospects Qiu Tu depicted, although Master Qin Si still hesitated, he was clearly tempted.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t pressure or rush him. Being deeply knowledgeable about human nature, he knew that in order to make someone take the bait, it was essential to balance giving slack and pulling tight¡ªpatience was crucial.


    Therefore, they set a final deadline. Neither early nor late, it was precisely one hour before Qin Heng was to meet Yan Chen: 7 o''clock.


    After that time, their deal would be void. Before then, Master Qin Si would have ample time to think it over and make his final decision.


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu looked at the sky outside and felt the sunset was unexpectedly beautiful.


    Although it wasn''t yet time, he was already more than 90% sure that this fire would ignite.


    During the days he had been in contact with Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu had already figured out his character through various pieces of intelligence.


    Perhaps because he was the last son of the first wife, Master Qin Si had been willful and defiant from a young age, not only cold-hearted but also a tremendous gambler.


    Qiu Tu remembered a saying that Master Qin Si often had on his lips: "To the victor belong the spoils, he who gambles must accept loss."


    Therefore, if the same conditions were given to Qin Zhengguang, he would most likely give up due to familial affection or the risks involved.


    But Master Qin Si.... As long as there was a sliver of possibility, he wouldn''t resign himself to fate....


    So, having given him such great hope, all he had to do now was quietly wait for him to bite....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu no longer focused on Master Qin Si but went to his bedroom to check on his Cataclysmic Potion.


    Pushing open the bedroom door, he was first hit with a briny scent, like that of the sea. Following that, Qiu Tu felt as if he had been transported into the midst of a vast ocean.


    At this moment, the whole room had turned azure blue, and the rippling surface of the water reflected on the ceiling as if it were the ocean floor.


    The sounds of the sea breeze and the lapping waves surrounded him.


    He reached out, and the sea water flowed over his body, soaking his clothes through and sticking them tight against him....


    "Hey! Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu!"


    While Qiu Tu was engrossed in this "indoor ocean" spectacle, suddenly, he heard Shen Lingshuang''s voice calling out to him.


    Groggily coming back to his senses, Qiu Tu realized he was standing in his bedroom.


    But... there was no ocean, no sea breeze, no waves in sight, only a room full of alchemy equipment and ingredients.


    ''Was everything just now a hallucination?''


    Qiu Tu was startled, but then he noticed something was off because... he truly seemed as though he had just been pulled out of the sea, drenched from head to toe.


    "Drip... Drip..."


    Qiu Tu looked down; his shirt, pants, and shoes were all soaked, dripping water.


    He touched a drop of water and tasted it. It was salty....


    Qiu Tu looked up at Shen Lingshuang, who appeared concerned, and asked, "What happened to me?"


    Shen Lingshuang was hesitant.


    She carefully said, "I''m not sure either...." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''ve encountered something similar before. But... my father told me it involves the truth of the Cataclysm and the nature of the world."


    "He said unless one embarks on the path of the Cataclysm, there''s no need to know. So, I don''t understand what''s going on either. All I can say is, this isn''t the first occurrence."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned to the bubbling blue Magic Potion within the device....


    Could it be that all that just happened was caused by this bottle of Cataclysmic Potion in front of him?


    Just a potion, and it could create such a vivid hallucination? Moreover... could this hallucination turn from fiction to fact?


    Then... how wondrous must the world of the supernaturally gifted be...?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu looked at Shen Lingshuang and inquired, "How much longer until the Potion is ready?"


    Shen Lingshuang paused for a moment, "Ten minutes."


    Qiu Tu nodded, "I''m going to change my clothes."


    Having said that, he took a towel from the restroom to dry off his body, and then found a couple of clean clothes in the living room to change into.


    Just like that, ten minutes passed in a flash.


    By the time Qiu Tu had changed, Shen Lingshuang walked slowly out of the bedroom holding two bottles of azure Potion¡­

 Chapter 48 Successful Cataclysm Awakening (Urgent Plea for Follow-up Reads)

    With just a glance, Qiu Tu felt his gaze irresistibly drawn to the two bottles of potion, as blue as the deep ocean.It was as if some invisible force was tugging at his spirit, pulling him deeply into the gem-like liquid, leaving him unable to extricate himself for the moment.


    It seemed that the unique salty scent of the ocean once again lingered in his nostrils; the low chanting of waves hitting the shore echoed in his ears, as the vast expanse of the sea emerged before his eyes¡­.


    Fortunately, with the experience he just had, he didn''t sink into the sea but, with a jolt, managed to break free from the hallucination.


    Shen Lingshuang was a bit surprised that he was able to break free from the hallucination for the second time so quickly and exclaimed, "Qiu Tu, you might actually have the talent to become a Cataclysmic."


    "I remember I went through a dozen similar hallucinations and had to be awakened by my father each time."


    Having said that, she glanced down at the two bottles of Cataclysmic Potion she had concocted, feeling a little sentimental, "Also, although I''m not sure what exactly happened this time."


    "But I always feel that the Cataclysmic Potion I concocted this time seems different from before."


    She tilted her head, her eyes swirling with the light of reminiscence, and said cutely, "I feel that the effects of this batch of potions are particularly strong. Even I fall involuntarily into hallucinations every time I look at them."


    "This is a phenomenon I have never encountered before."


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu immediately had a guess in his heart: Perhaps... thanks to the right time, place, and people, the probability of Cataclysm Awakening for these two potions was indeed high enough, which is why there was such a special phenomenon.


    Thinking this, he took one bottle of potion from Shen Lingshuang''s hand, and then glanced over to the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    In the upper left corner, two small treasure chests were flashing, with no new crisis countdown emerging.


    ''It seems there''s at least no danger to life.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu made up his mind.


    He shook the bottle of potion.


    "Qiu Tu!"


    As the potion swayed, the hallucination slowly began to appear again. But at that moment, Shen Lingshuang''s crisp voice sounded in Qiu Tu''s ear.


    Qiu Tu stopped his action and looked at the young girl before him.


    Shen Lingshuang gently placed her hand on Qiu Tu''s hand, her beautiful eyes filled with worry, "Are you... really sure you want to drink this potion?"


    Sensing the girl''s nervous mood, Qiu Tu made a light-hearted joke, "What? Did you spit in it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ill-timed joke, Shen Lingshuang''s face turned red as she protested, "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted her head, then said softly, "Don''t worry. I''ll be fine."


    "Besides, I''ve made proper arrangements for all of you."


    With that, his smile was warm and full of strength, "If I don''t come back, ''Eagle'' will take you away from Xinjie City and send you home."


    "I''ve prepared two little goldfish and two hundred Silver Yuan for you, which should be enough for your fare back to the Third Sanctuary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang turned pale, her grip tightening on Qiu Tu''s hand as she clarified, "I''m not concerned for myself. I''m worried about you."


    "I always feel that... "


    But before she could finish, the hand Qiu Tu had on her head turned into a chop and deftly struck the back of her neck.


    The next second, the girl, with an incredulous expression on her face, slumped softly into Qiu Tu''s arms.


    Carefully, Qiu Tu took the second bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, placed the two potions temporarily on the table, then picked her up by the waist and walked towards the door.


    A moment later, with the sound of his home''s door opening, the door to the room next door also opened from the inside.


    Eagle stepped out of the house.


    He nodded at Qiu Tu, then stepped aside to clear the doorway.


    Carrying Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu entered the next room, where a woman in her thirties was already waiting.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, she hurriedly stepped aside, and Qiu Tu carefully placed Shen Lingshuang onto the bed.


    Then he instructed the woman, "Sister Xin, I''ll have to trouble you to look after this girl."


    Sister Xin immediately responded, rubbing her hands together, "Ah-Tu, don''t worry. You''ve taken care of us for so many years, we''re all grateful and will surely return the favor."


    "Leave her with me, and I''ll take good care of her. Even if she wakes up, I''ll keep her calm."


    Qiu Tu nodded and then left the room.


    Approaching the door, he looked at Eagle standing by the entrance and softly instructed, "Stand guard at my doorstep."


    "If something goes wrong, don''t hesitate, take Sister Xin and Shen Lingshuang and leave immediately."


    Eagle replied with a "hm," his gaze steady.


    Qiu Tu then took out his communicator and handed it to him, ordering, "If Old Fourth Qin calls before I come out, you respond as I taught you this afternoon."


    "I don''t care about the rest, but most importantly, make sure he takes Qin Shuman away from the Qin Family."


    "At that time, there will be people from the military waiting to meet them at the designated location."


    Eagle grunted again in acknowledgment.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Over the past few days, I''ve got my hands on thousands of Silver Yuan from the Investigation Bureau and the Qin Family, all stashed in the black car that Qin Zhengguang brought over today."


    "If something happens to me, you guys take this money and drive to Eastern City in the south."


    "The Bureau Chief there has issues with Yan Chen, so they won''t go after you. You can settle there or use it as a transit point."


    The Eagle fell silent for a moment, seemingly uncomfortable with Qiu Tu''s plans for the worst-case scenario, but eventually spoke up to persuade, "Do we really have to take this gamble?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu slapped his shoulder, his words carrying a mixture of resilience and openness, "How can one rise above without taking risks?"


    "We''re already fortunate to have this chance to gamble. Who knows how many people wish for a chance to gamble but never get one?"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu turned and went back to his room, then closed the door.


    The reason he had arranged everything in such meticulous detail was because he also wasn''t sure what would happen after drinking the Cataclysmic Potion.


    Although there might not be a risk to his life, the dangers of the Cataclysmic Potion didn''t lie in taking lives, but... mutation, degeneration, and alteration were all possibilities.


    That was why he had put everything in order before setting off on this path filled with unknowns.


    Like Shen Lingshuang''s journey home, Qin Shuman''s freedom, like the livelihood of Ah-Tai and Eagle for the next few years...


    In the end, there was still a trace of kindness in his heart...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu lifted his head and took another deep look at the dark, tranquil sky outside the window. Then he picked up a bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, removed the cork, and drank it down with a decisive tilt of his head!


    ''After all, I have lived again, and slept with a great beauty like Qin Shuman, it''s worth it!''


    As the Cataclysmic Potion slid down his throat, for a moment, Qiu Tu felt a coolness spreading swiftly from his throat to his chest and abdomen, then quickly to every corner of his body.


    In the next instant, he felt as if he were submerged in a clear, azure ocean once more.


    Only this time, it was different from the previous experiences; he dived straight into the depths of the sea, or rather... he became the sea itself.


    His thoughts began to disperse and drift away, like raindrops scattered by the wind, merging into rivers, lakes, and oceans. He seemed to become the water droplets, the morning dew, the storms of the Cataclysmic world.


    He roamed with the storms over every inch of land controlled by the Sanctuaries!


    It was an indescribably mystical feeling, yet it immersed him...


    However, the peaceful moment was short-lived. As he delved deeper, the mist around him turned increasingly viscous and filthy, as if the clear waters had transformed into foul, thick bitumen.


    His entire being felt encased, becoming rigid and slow, even breathing became difficult.


    Darkness intensified along with the sense of danger, the shadow of fear, and the flames of anger mingling in his heart.


    At the very brink of collapse, that coolness within Qiu Tu finally burst forth. It served as his final bastion, guarding the last bit of his consciousness, and freed him from his constraints!


    Qiu Tu stirred the storms again, carrying clouds of mist as he escaped from the thick, foul abyss.


    After an indeterminate period, when Qiu Tu finally escaped the suffocating area, he looked back.


    His perception seemed to pierce through the layers of space, revealing a brand-new world¡ªwhat was once a vast and boundless ocean was merely a small pond, while most of the world was enveloped in darkness as dense as bitumen, mud...


    In that instant, a boundless sorrow surged within him, as if he mourned for the entire world...


    A second later, he completely lost consciousness...


    Time passed, maybe 10 minutes, perhaps an hour. When Qiu Tu awoke from the darkness,


    He found his body had undergone many changes, and his mind also possessed much new information...


    These were the codes engraved on the cornerstone of the world, revealing the secrets of the universe''s supernatural powers. Every supernatural being receives this mysterious gift upon their first awakening.


    Closing his eyes, he quietly sorted through the information in his mind.


    After a while, Qiu Tu slowly opened his eyes.


    The next second, his normally deep black pupils transformed into a clear azure blue.


    At the same time, his sight suddenly blurred, as if a layer of frosted glass had been laid over it. The material world around him began to fade, replaced by a dim, dreamlike fog that quietly spread.


    Looking around, the objects he saw were no longer tangible, but a collection of nearly transparent, almost vanishing lines.


    His gaze penetrated the illusory walls, clearly seeing the neighboring room where a cluster of lively fire lay quietly, and another of dim fire sat beside.


    Looking outside the door, a cluster of fire paced restlessly. Beyond that cluster, a few kilometers away, a giant shadow stood tens of meters tall, silent, majestic, and solemn...


    ''Era of Disaster, Boundless Heart Sea...''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu slowly exited the state of Spiritual Vision, his expression complex.


    The information obtained from the origin of the world finally allowed him to complete the secrets of this world... S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 49 The First Cataclysmic Ability (7000 words, please follow)

    According to the information etched into the cornerstone of the world, this world did indeed experience a catastrophic upheaval known as the "Apocalyptic Cataclysm" several decades ago.This great disaster plunged the whole world into a chaotic and shattered abyss, with all creatures undergoing a baptism and enlightenment by Catastrophe Power.


    What''s more serious is that, because of this great disaster, above the material world, a spiritual realm named "Boundless Heart Sea" was born.


    That world is the collective manifestation of the consciousness of all things, mirroring the material world and affecting each other. Its landscape changes with the beliefs, emotions, and memories of the living, yet it, in turn, affects the real world.


    Order, Chaos, Life, Immortality, Destruction, and Mystery are the six Catastrophic powers that were born in the "Boundless Heart Sea".


    Every creature who steps onto the path of transcendence will resonate with one of these six powers and then... become a "Practitioner" of these six powers in the material world.


    The power that Qiu Tu resonated with was... Order.


    Coming back to his senses, Qiu Tu''s eyes revealed deep thought.


    He wasn''t surprised that the path he resonated with was Order. After all, for most of the more than twenty years before he crossed over, he had lived in a peaceful and stable era.


    Even during the years when he was locked up, he always longed to return to a life of orderly and peaceful Order.


    What surprised him was... the branch he was on the path of Order...


    "Order-Political."


    "Politics refers to the actions of governing a nation by the government, political parties, etc. and it''s the sum of all kinds of social activities and social relationships that revolve around state power," he thought.


    "In the Era of Disaster, establishing a stable, healthy nation is undoubtedly the best way to guide humanity towards recovery."


    "So, climbing to the top within the existing Sanctuary system, or building a new nation from scratch, would be the best way for me to walk the path of Order?" he wondered.


    "The higher my position and the greater my authority, the more people I can gather, call upon, and influence, and the stronger my power will be?"


    Recalling the information in his mind, Qiu Tu wore a strange expression.


    ''So... to increase my strength, I must get promoted? From Staff to Director, Bureau Chief? And then from ruling one city to dominating the Planning Area, and then reigning over the Sanctuary?'' he pondered.


    ''Only by making everyone submit to my Order can I reach the pinnacle of this transcendent path?'' he considered.


    To tell the truth, Qiu Tu felt that this goal was a bit too grand and exaggerated.


    He felt that although he had some ambition, at most he wanted to be a staff head or a director, take the state stipend; have a few beautiful subordinates to have heart-to-heart talks with, drink tea, and handle official business.


    Suddenly being asked to take such a high position and having the heavy responsibility of rebuilding the entire human Order placed on him, he felt quite overwhelmed.


    But... the supernatural power of this world was just so special, once someone''s path was determined, it couldn''t be changed.


    So...


    Qiu Tu blinked, "How about setting a smaller goal first? Taking Yan Chen''s position?"


    "From Staff to Bureau Chief should be enough to give my supernatural power a dramatic transformation, right?"


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also firmly resolved: Then let''s start by taking Yan Chen''s position!


    After making up his mind, Qiu Tu''s mentality also became much more peaceful.


    He temporarily set aside his thoughts and began to focus on his body''s condition after the Cataclysm Awakening.


    He meticulously checked his body.


    After the examination, the most direct feeling was that his body seemed to have been remodeled. Not only had he become stronger, his skin had become finer, and even the scars on his body were gone.


    He clenched his fists and swung forward, "Whoosh!" a gust of wind caused papers to fly everywhere!


    "So strong," Qiu Tu muttered in surprise.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but he had the feeling that he could now kill a bull with a single punch.


    He put his fist down, then half-squatted, gathering strength in his knees, and suddenly pushed off.


    The next second, his head collided solidly with the ceiling!


    There was a "bang!" as Qiu Tu, holding his head, fell to the ground.


    Hey, it didn''t hurt.


    "Thud thud thud!"


    Just as Qiu Tu was engaged in these experiments, all of a sudden, someone knocked on the door from outside.


    Along with the knocking, there was Eagle''s inquiry, "Brother Tu, is that you? Are you alright?"


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses and looked towards the door.


    In the state of Spiritual Vision just now, He saw that although Eagle was outwardly calm, he was, in fact, always very worried about him: pacing outside.


    Eagle must have heard the unusual noises inside the room by now but hadn''t seen him come out, suspecting that his Cataclysm Awakening had failed, which is why he was anxious.


    With that thought, he said, "I''m fine," as he walked toward the door, ready to open it.


    He grabbed the doorknob and gave it a twist.


    "Creak." The door didn''t open.


    The doorknob had been twisted off.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    The Eagle outside clearly became more anxious, asking again, "Brother Tu, are you sure you''re alright?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t bother fixing the door; he simply punched the door lock.


    With a "boom!" the wood around the door lock shattered, creating a hole.


    The Eagle outside jumped in shock, instinctively wanting to step back, but at that moment, Qiu Tu had already reached through the hole to pull the door down.


    "Find someone to replace the door for me later. Get a metal one. The wooden one isn''t sturdy enough," Qiu Tu casually said as he tossed the door aside, leaving Eagle with a dashing view of his back.


    Eagle was dumbstruck by this scene, taking a moment to come to his senses.


    After a short pause, he took a deep breath to calm down, then strode into the room.


    Entering the room, he cautiously examined Qiu Tu a few times before asking in a low voice, "Brother Tu, did you succeed?"


    After speaking, he licked his lips and asked, "Are Cataclysmics this strong?"


    For the reticent Eagle, managing to utter these two sentences already demonstrated the shock and curiosity in his heart.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu simply had him act as a sparring partner to test his current strength.


    Five minutes later, after Eagle had been knocked down for the Nth time, he was rubbing his sore arm and his body was covered in bruises, with disbelief filling his eyes.


    Although Qiu Tu used to be everyone''s big brother, it was mainly because of his smart brain, combined with the fact that he had nurtured everyone like a father and a brother. As for physical fitness and fighting ability, he was actually quite average.


    Not to mention Ah-Tai, even Eagle would definitely be able to take on two Qiu Tu.


    Yet now... Eagle found himself completely powerless under Qiu Tu''s hands.


    No matter what move Eagle tried, Qiu Tu simply slapped him away, sending Eagle tumbling to the ground.


    After being hit several times, Eagle gradually became familiar with Qiu Tu''s routine. He figured that with a few tricks up his sleeve, he could exchange a few moves with Qiu Tu.


    But as it turned out... none of that worked: even if he could see clearly, his speed simply couldn''t keep up, and his body couldn''t react in time.


    So, after just five minutes of practice, Eagle was gasping for air and drenched in sweat.


    "Strong... so strong... Is this what Cataclysmics are like?"


    Eagle felt that with the combat power Qiu Tu was now demonstrating, he could take on twenty or thirty young adults by himself¡ªand that was with Qiu Tu not being adept at fighting.


    At that moment, after hearing Eagle''s words, Qiu Tu just smiled and didn''t say anything.


    The strength of the Cataclysmics isn''t limited to enhanced physicality. Those unique and bizarre abilities are what truly make them fearsome...


    ...and they mark the insurmountable gulf between Cataclysmics and ordinary people...


    For instance, the Cataclysmic ability Qiu Tu gained when he first awakened: Reshape Order.


    This ability allowed Qiu Tu to set one rule every day.


    The rule could only affect a fixed space no larger than eight cubic meters, and it only lasted for one day.


    But as long as the beings or objects within this space were not of a higher rank than Qiu Tu, they would be affected by this rule.


    According to Qiu Tu''s understanding, he could set any rule within a space, even if the rule was "water flows upwards" or "women don''t wear pants" or "people can''t die," it would work.


    The only problem is, he could only set one rule, and he couldn''t affect those of a rank higher than his.


    But for Qiu Tu, this was enough.


    Moreover, this was the ability effect of his Deputy Staff position. With future promotions, this ability would obviously strengthen further, suggesting immense potential...


    And as he grew, he would obtain a second ability, a third ability, a fourth ability...


    He would become more and more powerful.


    ''So, to settle the score with the Qin Family, to deal with Jia Shu, to conquer Yan Chen, and to climb to the peak of Xinjie City step by step!''


    ''That is the path I will follow next!''


    Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute and fervent, filled with the desire to burn everything...


    Having tested all his abilities, Qiu Tu arranged for Eagle to restore the room to its original condition, while he solemnly stowed the second bottle of the Cataclysmic Potion and went next door to carry Shen Lingshuang back.


    Perhaps because she had been constantly anxious since her arrest by the Investigation Bureau, or maybe because Qiu Tu''s chopping blow had been a bit too heavy, Shen Lingshuang was still unconscious even after an hour had elapsed.


    So, Qiu Tu placed her on his bed, tucked her in, and let her continue to rest, while he sat on the living room sofa, patiently waiting for Master Qin Si''s call.


    With the worst possibilities averted, everything seemed to be back on its original track, only Qiu Tu knew he had become a completely different person...


    Time stealthily slipped away. Soon, it was the time Qiu Tu and Master Qin Si had agreed upon.


    Five minutes before 7:00 PM, Qiu Tu''s communicator vibrated sharply.


    Feeling the vibration of the communicator, the resting Qiu Tu opened his eyes and looked down to pick it up.


    As expected, the call was from Master Qin Si.


    A smile curled at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth as he answered the call.


    From the other end of the communicator came Master Qin Si''s hoarse, angry voice, "I agree to your terms."


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Fourth Master, you won''t regret this."


    Clenching his teeth, Master Qin Si growled lowly, "I just can''t accept it, I can''t bear it!"


    "Why must I be the sacrifice!"


    "I''m the biological son of my father too, his own brother!"


    "Why! Why!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu smoothly responded, "Fourth Master, I understand you. Isn''t life all about seeking six words."


    "Fairness! Fairness! Damn fairness!"


    "Why should you be the one to suffer all the hardships, while Commissioner Qin and Director Qin enjoy all the blessings?"


    "Just because you were born a few years later?"


    Qiu Tu''s words hit right at the heart of Master Qin Si.


    In these few hours, he must have gone through multiple mental struggles and faced a lot of pressure from the main and secondary branches of the Qin Family. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, biting his teeth, Master Qin Si said fiercely, "Exactly! I won''t accept this!"


    Then, in a lower voice, he asked, "So, tell me, what do you want me to do? How can I connect with the military?"


    Even in such a moment, Qiu Tu didn''t take things lightly.


    He spoke deliberately, "Fourth Master, the plan is straightforward, but we must take it step by step. What you need to do tonight is just keep your communicator open and listen for my instructions."


    "If Commissioner Qin pressures you again, or asks for your opinion, you can agree for the time being to appease him, then let him go and see Bureau Chief Yan."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the time and said, "It''s now 7 o''clock sharp. It takes about 20 minutes to travel from the Qin residence to the villa in the city."


    "Therefore, Commissioner Qin should leave the Qin residence around 7:30."


    "At that time, I will give you new instructions."


    Master Qin Si genuinely seemed eager to cooperate, so he replied in a deep tone, "Fine. Then I''ll wait for your message."


    After hanging up the communicator, Qiu Tu stood up, a smile on his face.


    As he walked to the window and looked out at the evening sky growing dark, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted for an instant, then his dark eyes suddenly turned a deep blue.


    A gray fog spread, materiality dissolved, and his spirit ascended to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Distance and walls were no longer obstacles, and his gaze penetrated countless spaces, focusing on the Qin residence...


    ''The show is about to begin...''


    ----


    I''ll be challenging Sanjiang tomorrow, so I''m asking everyone to catch up on the reading tomorrow and cast your votes for recommendations and Monthly Tickets, thank you!

 Chapter 50 The Qin Family on Fire (7k Words Plea for Follow-up Read 1/2)

    ```Time ticked away, second by second.


    Soon, it was 7:25.


    Yan Chen left the Qin Family''s Main Residence under the escort of a motorcade, heading towards the City Center Garden villa where Yan Chen lived, five minutes earlier than Qiu Tu had predicted.


    Through his Spiritual Vision, Qiu Tu watched from afar as Qin Heng left and took out his communicator to call Master Qin Si.


    The call connected, and Master Qin Si''s deliberately lowered voice came from the other side, "Hello? What''s happened?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Commissioner Qin is gone. We can act now."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si felt a surge in his heart.


    He reflexively looked at the wall clock, which showed it was 7:26. Four minutes earlier than Qiu Tu''s original plan.


    It might seem like a mere four minutes, but it signified a completely different meaning: Qiu Tu had actually been in control of Qin Heng''s movements all along!?


    At that thought, Master Qin Si first felt a bit annoyed¡ªhe had truly underestimated Qiu Tu before, not expecting Qiu Tu to be so capable; then he felt somewhat pleased¡ªafter all, the more capable Qiu Tu''s methods were, the more his own safety was guaranteed.


    With this in mind, he also adjusted his mood and then asked, "So, we start executing the plan now? Do you need me to do anything?"


    In response to his question, Qiu Tu said in the gentlest tone possible, "Fourth Master, the first thing you need to do now is call your wife and children to pack their valuables and be ready at a moment''s notice."


    "Oh, and remember to have them pack all the house deeds and wealth they can carry with them. Take whatever you can and hide what cannot be taken."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a sudden shock went through Master Qin Si. Having been a figure in this field for many years, he immediately sensed something amiss. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having his wife and children pack up house deeds and money...?


    This...?


    Master Qin Si tentatively asked, "Qiu Tu, why are you making these arrangements? Wouldn''t it be more convenient for them to stay at the Qin residence?"


    Qiu Tu spoke with genuine earnestness, "Fourth Master. You''re breaking away from the Qin Family to join the military''s side, which means confronting Director Qin and the Investigation Bureau fiercely."


    "This is a fight to the death, not some dinner invitation."


    "If at this time, your wife and children are still at the Qin residence, and they discover something is wrong and use it to threaten you, how will you deal with that?"


    Master Qin Si instinctively opened his mouth, intending to make some arguments, but Qiu Tu, as if guessing his thoughts, directly said, "To take a step back, even if your elder and second brothers wouldn''t use their brother''s wife and nephews to blackmail you. But... what about the Investigation Bureau? The Political Department?"


    "They have no kinship with you. Why should they consider your feelings?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Fourth Master, don''t forget what I told you yesterday: There are never any miscarriages of justice within the Political Department."


    "Are you really willing to gamble with your wife and children''s lives?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s expression changed rapidly. After a moment, he said in a deep voice, "I understand. I''ll arrange for them to start packing right away."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu stood quietly by the window, looking into the distance.


    He didn''t care about Master Qin Si''s distrust and doubts. After all... he never had good intentions.


    To truly control a person, just offering incentives is not enough. Between life and death, the best approach is to grasp their vulnerabilities¡ªtheir family.


    Hostages from enemy states, families of devoted soldiers... it has always been so throughout history.


    Therefore, the first step Qiu Tu had to take was to grasp Master Qin Si''s vulnerability.


    Of course... with their current identities, Master Qin Si would certainly not willingly give up this leverage, so Qiu Tu had to make him see reality and then gradually guide him...


    Qiu Tu patiently waited half an hour.


    8:00.


    As Patriarch of the Qin Family Qin Heng stepped into the City Center Garden and began his conversation with Yan Chen, Qiu Tu picked up the communicator and issued a second command to Master Qin Si.


    "Next, please arrange for several of your confidants to escort your wife and children out of the Qin residence to a safe place to hide temporarily, waiting to rendezvous with you."


    Fishing could never solely rely on brute force, a mix of slack and tension is required to successfully reel in the fish that takes the bait.


    Just now, Qiu Tu had made Master Qin Si worried about his family''s situation, even suggesting that Qiu Tu was about to grasp his vulnerability.


    Now, Qiu Tu needed to dispel that suggestion, releasing the leverage: he let Master Qin Si send his own confidants to escort and chose the safehouse himself, not interfering at all, just to "tell" Master Qin Si that he had no ulterior motives.


    This contrast would not only thrill Master Qin Si, making him too excited to think clearly in these critical moments about whether Qiu Tu might have other plans...


    Therefore, he agreed very readily, and in less than ten minutes, everything was arranged.


    And Qiu Tu...


    Turned and left the room, called for Eagle, and gave his service weapons to Eagle...


    Eagle, holding the gun, went downstairs.


    Downstairs stood the group of temporary detectives who had originally come to Qiu Tu''s aid and... Ah-Tai, who had since joined the Special Service Department, dressed in the formal detective uniform, equally armed with a service weapon, towering at a height of 1.9 meters, with a build like a bear, resembling a King Kong...


    8:15.


    The wife and children of Master Qin Si left the Qin residence quietly under the escort of six bodyguards, heading towards one of Master Qin Si''s safehouses.


    Before entering the safehouse, they were intercepted by Ah-Tai and his people.


    Faced with two handguns, a Special Service Detective, and over a dozen temporary detectives wielding police weapons, the six bodyguards had almost no chance to resist, were disarmed, and not a single one managed to escape....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu''s third order was issued to Master Qin Si: he instructed Master Qin Si to have the maids take Qin Shuman to the main residence''s garden for a walk and to arrange a team of confidants for her protection.


    8:35.


    As planned, Qin Shuman arrived at the main residence''s garden and started walking near the pond where she and Qiu Tu had fished together.


    Master Qin Si''s confidants quietly took their positions.


    8:45.


    Just as Patriarch of the Qin Family Qin Heng and Yan Chen''s conversation was heating up...


    ```


    Qiu Tu finally cast off his disguise and issued the fourth command to Master Qin Si, he directed Master Qin Si to arrange for a confidant to, within 20 minutes, gather as much kindling, gasoline, and fuel oil as possible to act as accelerants.


    This time, Master Qin Si distinctly felt something was wrong and asked with a cold face what Qiu Tu was really planning to do.


    But Qiu Tu simply said indifferently, "Fourth Master, just do it."


    After hanging up the phone, Master Qin Si''s complexion rapidly changed.


    Kindling, gasoline, fuel oil¡ª all inflammable materials. It was not hard to guess what Qiu Tu planned to do with these gathered together: it was to start a fire.


    But...where this fire was to be set, where it burned to, bore completely different implications.


    Master Qin Si was intent on clarifying everything, but by this time, Qiu Tu had already hung up the phone.


    Coupled with the fact that so much had already been done and the constraint of a 20-minute deadline...


    In the end, Master Qin Si grit his teeth and still played his luck. He picked up the communicator and made several calls...


    Qiu Tu was not surprised by Master Qin Si''s choice.


    The reason he didn''t inform Master Qin Si of the entire plan for the evening beforehand was not only to prevent Master Qin Si from leaking information, but also to give him no chance to refuse.


    If he had laid out the entire plan, Master Qin Si might have refused or hesitated, either because the plan was too outrageous, or there was a part of it he didn''t like.


    However, when Qiu Tu guided him step by step, because Master Qin Si was unaware of the full extent of the plan, by the time he realized something was amiss, he no longer had an escape route.


    Could he call back his confidants? Could he bring his wife and children back to the Qin Family? Take back the money and deed to the house?


    He wouldn''t. The enormous sunk costs would press on him to continue moving forward.


    So, 20 minutes later, when Qiu Tu called Master Qin Si, although the latter''s tone was poor, he still had everything ready.


    And at this moment, Qiu Tu revealed his ultimate goal.


    He issued the final command to Master Qin Si:


    To set the Qin Family''s Main Residence ablaze in the chaos, kill the rotational detectives and maids guarding Qin Shuman''s side, and then flee the Qin Family with Qin Shuman.


    Upon learning Qiu Tu''s ultimate intent, Master Qin Si went mad.


    He thought he was crazy enough, but Qiu Tu was even crazier!


    So he roared on the other end of the communicator, "Do you have any idea what you''re doing! Setting fire to one of Xinjie City''s largest clan''s main residence! Assassinating officers with official statuses!"


    "Are you trying to make me rebel?!"


    "If I do this, who could protect me!"


    "You want to play! I''m not playing with you anymore!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s hysterical roar, Qiu Tu laughed.


    Then he simply said, "You might want to call your sister-in-law and your little nephew."


    "They must really want to see you."


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si''s mind went blank.


    He suddenly realized he had missed something!


    Qiu Tu had seemed too innocent before, making him forget that this was a schemer who delighted in manipulating others and betraying them for fun!


    Qiu Tu painted a grand vision for him, and step by step, he was led into Qiu Tu''s rhythm, along with Qiu Tu''s constant "countdown" that rushed him to execute the plan, leaving him no time to consider any underhanded moves by Qiu Tu.


    Now, as he calmed down, he realized he had been duped: if Qiu Tu could monitor Qin Heng, he could just as easily surveil him and his family!


    Even if he sent his trusted aides for protection, his aides were exposed while Qiu Tu lurked in the shadows, able to amass more people than his confidants to take his wife and children hostage!


    So... did he just hand over half of his fortune and his wife and children to Qiu Tu?!


    Perhaps sensing the incredulity and rage emanating from Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu spoke slowly,


    "Please don''t misunderstand, Fourth Master. The reason I sent someone to protect your sister-in-law and nephew is because only I am authorized to interact with the military, and they do not allow contact with anyone else."


    "Thus, as long as you carry out the task well, once you reach the military''s safe house, you and your sister-in-law, and your nephew will be reunited."


    "As for... burning the Qin residence and murdering the detectives. Heh... isn''t it just a messy affair?"


    "As long as we win, we just need to find a few fall guys, have the military mediate, and what trouble can''t be overcome?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si was seething with fury. He didn''t believe a word from Qiu Tu any longer!


    But... he really had no other choice!


    Half of his wealth, his wife, his child¡ªthey were all in Qiu Tu''s hands. His trusted aides had been dispatched, and the materials for the fire were ready!


    What could he do? Give up?!


    Thinking thus, Master Qin Si ominously said, "You better keep your word. If you dare to trick me... I''ll fight with my dying breath and not let you off!"


    Qiu Tu chuckled, "Fourth Master, you jest. Aren''t we dear friends, almost like brothers?"


    "How could I possibly trick you."


    Master Qin Si snorted coldly and hung up the phone!


    10 minutes later, at 9:20 PM.


    Flames ferociously erupted at the Qin Family''s Main Residence! The fire raged and roared like a furious beast, devouring one eave after another!


    At that moment... In a villa in City Center Garden, Qin Heng had finally reached an agreement with Yan Chen. The two stood up, shook hands, each with relieved smiles on their faces.


    They were completely unaware of the dramatic changes occurring at the Qin Family''s premises at that moment...


    ----


    This chapter is 3500 words, and there will be another update of around 3500 words at 12 PM. That''s a total of 7000 words.

 Chapter 51 Cataclysmic Treasure: Nightmare Crystal Vial (7k words, please follow!)

    ```Night descended, a vast swathe of velvet drapery that muffled the clamor of the world.


    Twinkles of blue moonlight interwoven with sparse starlight serenely and mysteriously sprinkled across the land.


    In the city''s villa, outside the study.


    In the dim corridor, Yan Chen stood alongside Qin Heng. The light slanted from behind, casting their tall, intersecting shadows, segmenting the silent space into streaks of gold.


    "I didn''t expect the Bureau Chief to have such profound insights into civil affairs. The issues you pointed out are indeed ones we at the Civil Affairs Bureau hadn''t considered."


    "In the future, I shall certainly trouble you more, and I hope you won''t mind."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Yan Chen chuckled twice before he spoke in a deep, husky voice, "Commissioner Qin is too polite."


    "I had a very close relationship with Old Master Qin. Before his passing, he asked me to look after the Qin Family."


    "So in the future, feel free to consult me on any matter."


    The two had already reached a consensus in the study. Now they were just exchanging pleasantries, so the atmosphere was exceptionally harmonious.


    Just then, suddenly, a figure hurriedly approached from the end of the corridor.


    They stopped their conversation to look at the approaching figure.


    It was Qin Heng''s assistant, a member of the younger generation of the Qin Family whom he had carefully cultivated.


    Rushing in front of them, the assistant bowed slightly to Yan Chen and greeted, "Director Yan."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly and grunted from his nose in acknowledgment.


    The assistant then quickly stepped up to Qin Heng and, covering his mouth with his hand, leaned in to report.


    Seeing this, Qin Heng pushed away his hand and chided with a frown, "The Bureau Chief is present. What kind of behavior is this, sneaking around?"


    After speaking, he paused, then added with a serious face, "Whatever it is, report it directly."


    Qin Heng was already frail; speaking with such intensity, he immediately covered his mouth and coughed twice.


    At this time, hearing Qin Heng''s words, the assistant had a troubled expression. He glanced at Yan Chen and then back at Qin Heng.


    Qin Heng understood his assistant''s difficulty but also knew that his family had now completely aligned with Yan Chen. At such a moment, it was crucial to show the proper stance.


    Therefore, he gave the assistant a strict look.


    Seeing this, the assistant, still with a troubled face, made his report,


    "Master."


    Qin Heng glared at him again, "Address me by my position at work."


    Assistant: ...


    "Commissioner, the main house is suspected of being deliberately set on fire."


    "The fire is spreading, and the entire clan is in chaos."


    "Director Qin Zhengguang is organizing emergency firefighting while also conducting a headcount and investigation."


    "Since the fire started in a sparsely populated area, although the blaze is fierce, only two have suffered minor injuries, with no fatalities. But... Fourth Master and his wife and children have all disappeared."


    Upon hearing the assistant''s report, Qin Heng''s expression turned drastically.


    He couldn''t help but look at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen, half-shrouded in darkness, showed no expression on his face, as if he hadn''t heard the report at all.


    Seeing this, Qin Heng tamped down his inner turmoil. He gave a slight nod to Yan Chen and then calmly said, "Bureau Chief, there''s been an incident at the family abode. Please allow me to leave immediately."


    Yan Chen smiled lightly and said, "Commissioner Qin is too courteous. If there''s anything you can''t handle, feel free to contact me."


    Having said that, he called out, "Ji Chen."


    A butler emerged from the dark, standing in front of Yan Chen, head bowed and hands clasped.


    Yan Chen commanded, "You go with Commissioner Qin to take a look."


    Upon hearing this, the butler bowed to Qin Heng and said, "Commissioner Qin, if you please."


    Qin Heng didn''t reject Yan Chen''s kind offer. He first nodded at Yan Chen, then gestured to Ji Chen, before striding away.


    As he gradually left, the inquiry he murmured to his assistant echoed softly in the darkened hallway, "What exactly happened?"


    The assistant hurried behind him, softly responding, "Commissioner, it''s like this..."


    Back at the entrance to the study, Yan Chen stood with his hands behind his back, watching with an unfathomable gaze as Qin Heng''s figure disappeared at the end of the corridor, then turned and re-entered the study.


    Once back inside, beneath the dim light, he strolled over to the desk and picked up the telephone.


    He dialed a few numbers, and once there was a voice on the other end, he ordered, "Check what happened with the Qin family."


    A deep voice from the phone responded, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    ......


    Simultaneously.


    In his home on Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu witnessed through Spiritual Vision as Master Qin Si, leading Qin Shuman and guarded by several henchmen, hurriedly left the Qin residence.


    Behind them, the wild flames danced like an uncontrollable dragon, its furious roars in vain as they failed to stop their departure.


    Watching Master Qin Si and Qin Shuman get into the car, heading for the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu also deactivated his Spiritual Vision.


    The grey fog slowly dissipated, and the material world''s outlines filled back in, solidifying into wall after wall, building after building...


    As the lingering sapphire hue of Spiritual Vision faded from his pupils, Qiu Tu felt a wave of dizziness.


    Bracing himself against the window frame, he struggled to support himself, belatedly realizing he might have overexerted his mental faculties.


    Like Cataclysmic abilities, Spiritual Vision was not without limits; each use required a significant expenditure of spiritual power as a price.


    According to the information carved in the world''s Foundation Stones, this was because all Supernatural Power in this world needed to be driven by Cataclysmic Power, which only existed within the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    Thus, to wield such power in the material world, beings needed to connect with the "Boundless Heart Sea" and actualize Cataclysmic Power into the material realm.


    And this required an immense amount of spiritual power.


    ```


    For someone like Qiu Tu, who had just undergone a Cataclysm Awakening and then forcefully used spiritual vision for an hour, it was an incredibly extreme approach.


    Unless there was a potion to replenish spiritual power or a Cataclysmic treasure, one would need to rest for over ten hours to recover.


    ''A potion to restore spiritual power or a Cataclysmic treasure...?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked toward the two tiny treasure chests in the upper left of his field of vision that were still swaying....


    ''I actually have...''p>


    There were two Crisis Treasure Chests. One was from this morning when Qiu Tu had completed the task in Yan Chen''s office by implicating Master Qin Si, corresponding to the crisis of "Collecting Evidence of the Qin Family''s Crimes."


    The other had popped up automatically after the countdown ended at 6 p.m. today, in response to the crisis of "Creating an Awakening Elixir."


    And Qiu Tu had already checked the contents of these two crises.


    The treasure from "Collecting Evidence of the Qin Family''s Crimes" was still a piece of Cataclysmic Material.


    ''Memory Clay: A precious Cataclysmic Material, bred from the Night Demon Swamp, capable of recording and reproducing a creature''s memory.''


    ''With certain forging skills, one could craft Cataclysmic treasures such as "The Thinking Sculpture," "Reverberation Echo Pot," "Starry Beyond Letter," and "Eye of Future Foresight."''p>


    A piece of Cataclysmic Material that seemed very valuable, but Qiu Tu had no way to use it at the moment.


    As for the treasure chest from "Creating an Awakening Elixir," it was different because it actually contained a Cataclysmic treasure.


    ''Treasure Name: Nightmare Crystal Vial''


    ''Treasure Description: A unique container made primarily from Spirit Breath Crystals. It contains an energy that drives people to madness.''


    ''Treasure Effect: Simply leave it under moonlight for one night, and the vial will be filled with spiritual nourishment condensed from the power of the Cataclysm and the essence of dreams. Drinking it can instantly replenish depleted spiritual power.''


    ''Side Effects: Unknown.''


    ''Note: When you wander the Boundless Heart Sea or confront those terrifying entities trying to devour your mind, the Nightmare Crystal Vial is an indispensable treasure for maintaining mental vigor and resisting mental breakdown.''


    It was because he had obtained this Cataclysmic treasure capable of restoring his spiritual power that Qiu Tu dared to use Spiritual Vision so aggressively....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu clicked on that treasure chest.


    In a moment, a colorfully radiant crystal bottle appeared in his hand.


    The Crystal Bottle was not large, only the size of a thumb, and looked a bit like some kind of oral liquid Qiu Tu had drunk in his past life.


    Holding the Crystal Bottle, he gently shook it twice, and the contents rippled with iridescence like stars.


    Qiu Tu tipped his head back and drank the spiritual nourishment inside. The colorful liquid slid down his throat, as if illuminating every corner of his bones and organs, making them clearly visible.


    Suddenly, the light went out, and Qiu Tu felt a coolness reaching his brain. His thoughts, which had been somewhat painful and fatigued, instantly became crystal clear. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu shook his head, then opened his mouth and exhaled a colorful bubble....


    Qiu Tu covered his mouth, trying to prevent the bubbles from escaping. But then.... he felt the bubbles continuing to move downward....


    Qiu Tu, alarmed, quickly released his hands, allowing himself to exhale a colorful bubble every now and then....


    After spitting bubbles for a while, the side effects of the Cataclysmic treasure gradually disappeared.


    Feeling his spiritual power restored, Qiu Tu picked up the Nightmare Crystal Vial and shook it; it was now completely empty. It seemed it could only be used again after being left still overnight.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu put the first Cataclysmic treasure he had obtained into his pocket and made sure it was secure.


    Then he stood up, walked next door, called over Sister Xin to help watch over the still-sleeping Shen Lingshuang, and then he went downstairs.


    The climax is never the most important part of a play; it''s the curtain call.


    He had already let Master Qin Si perform in the first half of the play, and in the second half, he intended to personally draw the curtain on this show.


    After all, don''t forget, facilitating Master Qin Si''s escape from the Qin Family was only the first step.


    Negotiating with the military, handling the subsequent reactions from Yan Chen and the Qin Family, and maximizing the benefits from this situation, were the most crucial parts of the entire play....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu got downstairs, started the black sedan given to him by Director Qin Zhengguang, and headed toward the Milan Grand Hotel.


    He didn''t know if the Nightmare Crystal Vial had other special effects.


    The bumpy roads of the Planning Area somehow did not stir any negative emotions in Qiu Tu. He felt exceptionally calm, and even his thoughts seemed to flow much more smoothly.


    ''Ring, ring, ring''¡ªHalfway there, the communicator suddenly rang.


    Qiu Tu gathered his wandering thoughts and picked up the communicator to see it was Jia Shu calling.


    Seeing the name on the communicator, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows knit slightly. He pondered for a moment before calmly answering the call.


    "Good evening, Director."


    From the other side of the phone, Jia Shu''s feigned laughter came through, "What are you busy with, Agent Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and lied without changing his expression, "A friend asked me out for a drink; I''m on my way there."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Jia Shu, on the other side of the communicator, smirked while looking out the window before saying, "Then Agent Qiu, come to the Bureau for some overtime work."


    "There''s an urgent case."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu gradually brought the car to a stop.


    He pondered for two seconds, then suddenly laughed, "Alright."


    Jia Shu continued, "I remember Director Qin gifted you a car at noon today? It should be about a 15-minute drive from your place to the Bureau."


    "Shall we meet in... 18 minutes?"


    Qiu Tu did not refuse, "Yes, Director."


    After hanging up the phone, he looked through the car window at the pitch-black, deserted street, took a deep breath, and his face revealed an inexplicable expression.


    ''Interesting, very interesting.... One should never underestimate the enemy.''


    ''I''ve just made my move, and they''ve already responded?''


    ''But do they really suspect me, or are they just trying to lock down a suspect?''


    After contemplating for two seconds without reaching a conclusion, Qiu Tu smiled nonchalantly.


    Too bad... they can''t hold me down.


    This play, I''ve already got it set.''

 Chapter 52 Slapping Master Qin Sis Face (Thanks to the Warm Sun Giants Silver League!)

    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu tapped the steering wheel and made a U-turn, heading back towards the Investigation Bureau building.He wasn''t idle while driving.


    Jia Shu had indeed restricted his movements, but... he hadn''t restricted his mouth.


    Who said he couldn''t carry on with the act just because he couldn''t be at the scene?


    The real protagonist never complains about the environment!


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took out another communicator while driving: this was the communicator Ah-Tai received after becoming an official agent of the Special Service Department.


    Qiu Tu took Ah-Tai''s communicator and made a call to himself.


    "Dudu... Dudu... Dudu..."


    After a few rings on his own communicator, Qiu Tu answered the call.


    He waited another ten seconds or so before hanging up the communicator.


    After making these preparations, he took Ah-Tai''s communicator and called the third golden supporting role in this drama: Lin Zuo from the Security Department''s Investigation Section.


    Soon, the call connected.


    Lin Zuo''s cool voice came from the receiver, "Hello. Who is this...?"


    Because time was pressing, Qiu Tu didn''t bother with pleasantries and instead got straight to the point, "Lin Zuo, it''s Qiu Tu."


    "My communicator might be monitored for call records, so I''m using this communicator to call you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo didn''t immediately believe him and asked, "How do I know you''re not a voice changer?"


    Qiu Tu said, "416."


    This was the hotel room number from their last meeting, known only to the two of them, so Lin Zuo nodded slightly, preliminarily believing Qiu Tu.


    He asked, "What happened? Have you made any progress on your end?"


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu exaggerated while driving, "Not just progress, it''s a major breakthrough!"


    "I''m preparing a big gift for you."


    Lin Zuo asked in a cool tone, "What kind of gift?"


    Qiu Tu said, "I''ve turned Master Qin Si. He holds evidence of Yan Chen''s collusion with the United Front in his hands."


    As Qiu Tu''s words trailed off, the sound of objects colliding "clatter clatter" suddenly rang from the other side of the communicator.


    If he hadn''t guessed wrong, it was probably because Lin Zuo got too excited and knocked something over when he stood up abruptly.


    Seeing this, a smile crept across Qiu Tu''s lips.


    See... everyone has desires.


    Even the most honest and dedicated person harbors ambitions in their career.


    Once you pinpoint their desires, you can easily "manipulate" them.


    Thinking this, a voice came through the receiver, Lin Zuo suppressing his excitement as he inquired, "Is it true or false?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t answer directly but coolly replied to Lin Zuo, "Section Chief Lin, a question like that only makes me feel you''re unprofessional."


    Lin Zuo, momentarily taken aback, calmed down quite a bit.


    He reflected on his question: Indeed, since it was information given by Qiu Tu, no matter how he asked, Qiu Tu would only answer "it''s true."


    To find out if Qiu Tu was lying, he would have to verify it himself.


    ''A sudden clue made me lose my cool.''


    After quietly making a judgment, Lin Zuo''s emotions stabilized, and he returned to his normal professional level as the head of a security department.


    He didn''t ask any more foolish questions, and instead directly started talking business, "What do you need from me?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly. As expected of an elite trained by the Sanctuary, he''s more professional than newly recruited agents.


    With that thought, he said, "Master Qin Si left the Qin Family in two separate groups."


    "He himself is now on his way to the Milan Grand Hotel."


    "His wife and children arrived at a courtyard at 19 Nanfang Street half an hour ago. My people are... protecting them."


    "The clue he has is too important and involves Director Yan, it''s too sensitive."


    "So, I need your Security Department to send someone to clean up any traces left by these two groups of people."


    "Or, at the very least, make sure the trail goes cold."


    "Once the job is done, the safety of Master Qin Si''s wife and children will be the responsibility of my people, and he himself will be under the protection of your Security Department."


    "The intelligence and merits obtained from him will be shared between our two parties."


    Lin Zuo didn''t agree immediately upon hearing this. After thinking it over for a moment, he asked cautiously, "How long ago did this happen?"


    Qiu Tu quickly calculated the time, "Less than 10 minutes."


    Lin Zuo said, "We still have time."


    "I''ll send someone right now to clean up the traces."


    "Guarantee even if the Political Department steps in, they won''t be able to track down any leads to you."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Pleased to cooperate."


    Lin Zuo said, "Pleased to cooperate."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu felt somewhat at ease.


    In creating this plan, the Security Department was one of the cores of Qiu Tu''s strategy.


    With such a commotion today, it was highly likely that Yan Chen would take notice.


    And in order to investigate tonight''s affairs thoroughly, Yan Chen would probably dispatch his trump card¡ªthe Political Department.


    The Political Department, although mostly comprising newly recruited investigators, also included some elite agents who had come down from the Sanctuary. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If they got involved in the investigation, with non-professionals like Ah-Tai and Eagle leaving behind traces, they would definitely find out everything there was to find.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had to find someone to help handle all traces of the incident.


    And in the whole of Xinjie City, only the military, only the Security Department had such experts who could clean up traces, magically cover up the whereabouts of Master Qin Si and his family without anyone noticing!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to cooperate with the Security Department.


    Of course, knowing how crucial the Security Department was to the plan, Qiu Tu didn''t put all his hopes on Lin Zuo.


    He had a Plan B¡ªstarting with Qin Shuman.


    Just... that would make things much more complicated.


    For now, having negotiated with Lin Zuo and achieving his aim, Qiu Tu''s mood instantly became much lighter.

 Chapter 52 Slapping Master Qin Sis Face (Thanks to Warm Sun Giants Silver League!)_2

    He watched the streets whizz by outside the car window while murmuring to himself, "As long as I give the word to Master Qin Si, everything will be alright."Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up his communicator, ready to call Master Qin Si.


    But unexpectedly, before he could make the call, Master Qin Si''s call came through first.


    Looking at Master Qin Si''s number on his communicator, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, but eventually answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, Master Qin Si''s voice came through, clearly agitated, as though he was suppressing anger, "Qiu Tu! I want to make a deal with you!"


    "A deal?" Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and asked, "What kind of deal?"


    Master Qin Si said vehemently, "I''ve realized that you''re not a good partner at all!"


    "You''re treacherous and deceitful, taking pleasure in betraying people! Working with you, who knows when you''ll betray me and even help you count the money!"


    "Luckily, for all your planning, you missed one thing!"


    "All you thought about was taking advantage of the chaos to rescue your sweetheart Qin Shuman, but you forgot that after rescuing her, she''d still be in my hands!"


    "I''m telling you! Release my wife and kid now! Otherwise, I''ll kill Qin Shuman!"


    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment.


    Then he laughed...


    "Fourth Master, you''ve misunderstood, Qin Shuman is not my sweetheart," he said.


    "At best, we''re just two lonely souls who exchanged some deep conversation late into the night. That''s all."


    "In times of chaos... when there''s only the body, how could there be any feelings?"


    "Hold her hostage all you want, but she cannot threaten me."


    Master Qin Si roared, "Stop talking crap!"


    "Do you really think you can hide your affair with Qin Shuman from me!?"


    "If you had no feelings for her, would you still remember to have me rescue her in today''s situation?"


    "You''re fooling no one!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu let out a "haha" and laughed,


    "Fourth Master, you really have misunderstood. I asked you to save her for only two reasons."


    "First, to legitimately allow you to attack and kill an investigator, severing your means of retreat."


    "Second, to make you offend Yan Chen. You''ve abducted his mistress; do you think with his personality, he would let you go?"


    "As for Qin Shuman, if you want to kill her, go ahead."


    "After all, she''s of no use to me now."


    Shocked by Qiu Tu''s candid words, Master Qin Si hesitated, and his conviction wavered.


    Just then, Qiu Tu added, "However, Fourth Master, I honestly didn''t expect that even at a time like this, you''d still be double-dealing."


    "It seems... I have been too lenient with you."


    Pausing briefly, he continued indifferently, "Choose one of your two children. Which one will you keep?"


    Master Qin Si was first stunned, then he became hysterical, "Qiu Tu, you dare to threaten me?! Do you believe I will kill Qin Shuman right now!"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Alright then. Your eldest son will be the one to die."


    With that, he hung up the call with a "click."


    No sooner had he hung up than the communicator rang again within a second.


    Qiu Tu glanced at it¡ªit was Master Qin Si.


    Hung up.


    Master Qin Si called again.


    Qiu Tu hung up again.


    Master Qin Si called once more.


    This time, Qiu Tu finally answered.


    Master Qin Si''s tone had finally lost its edge as he spoke ingratiatingly, "Agent Qiu. Look, I was just joking with you, why''d you take it seriously?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled, "Fourth Master is truly a gang leader, able to bend and stretch. But say whatever you have quickly, I still have orders to give to my subordinates...."


    Without a hint of compassion, he began to count down, "5."


    Master Qin Si paused for a second, not yet comprehending, and Qiu Tu continued, "4."


    Master Qin Si called out in a hurry, "Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu!"


    Qiu Tu said, "3."


    Master Qin Si said in a panic, "Money! All the money my wife and child carry with them, I''ll give it to you! All of it!"


    Qiu Tu was amused, "Fourth Master, you sure know how to offer flowers in tribute to Buddha."


    "Your wife and child are already in my hands, and naturally, the money and house deeds they carry belong to me. Do I still need you to give them to me?"


    Master Qin Si hurriedly explained, "This money you take directly will always be under the table."


    "I can write a letter of employment commission and stamp it with my seal and handprint. It will prove that I have hired you, and all this money is the reward."


    "Such a document has legal effect at City Hall as well. Can''t the money be laundered then?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was clearly tempted. He pondered for two seconds before smiling and saying, "Fourth Master, it''s a pleasure to cooperate."


    Having said that, he added, "However... I have one more condition." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Master Qin Si, "What condition?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Now, take out a knife and stab Qin Shuman!"


    Master Qin Si was stunned, "What?"


    Qiu Tu repeated loudly, "I told you to stab Qin Shuman!"


    He explained, "Although I don''t know why you''ve misunderstood the relationship between her and me."


    "I don''t want to give you, or her... any illusions."


    "As to where this stab lands, that''s up to you."


    "Whether she lives or dies is in your hands."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si on the other end of the communicator slowly turned his head, his face full of disbelief as he looked toward Qin Shuman, who was tied up hand and foot, sitting beside him....


    It seemed Qin Shuman had also heard the conversation between the two. Leaning on the car door, her eyes gazing at the scenery flying by outside the window, she said indifferently, "I''ve always said I''m not important to him, and you still didn''t believe it."


    Qiu Tu''s urging voice came through the communicator.


    Master Qin Si''s mouth twitched, and he pulled a dagger from his waist, aiming it fiercely at Qin Shuman''s shoulder and stabbing!


    "Puchi!" The dagger plunged deep into Qin Shuman''s shoulder blade.


    Qin Shuman grunted, her beautiful face contorted with pain.


    With a grim face, Master Qin Si let go of the dagger, then said to Qiu Tu on the other end of the communicator, "Qiu Tu, I''ve completed your task."


    Praise from Qiu Tu came through on the other side of the communicator, "Well done."


    "Next, continue with the plan and head to the Milan Hotel, where someone from the Security Department will meet you."


    "As for your wife and child... as long as you cooperate well, I will ensure their safety."


    "So, Fourth Master, don''t get any more foolish ideas...."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." on the receiver, Master Qin Si''s expression shifted unpredictably.


    After a moment, he turned to look at Qin Shuman, who was in pain and as pale as death, and hissed, "I''ve been in the Jianghu for so many years, and I still have a knack for judging people."


    "He truly doesn''t care about whether you live or die."


    Qin Shuman leaned against the car door, her face painfully pale, but she showed no emotion at all....


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having hung up the communicator, threw it onto the passenger seat, cursing, "What a class act, playing games with me!"


    Master Qin Si''s biggest mistake was seriously underestimating Qin Shuman''s place in Qiu Tu''s heart.


    Qiu Tu did indeed have a "very close" relationship with Qin Shuman and would choose to help her if it was within his power, but... only if it didn''t stand in Qiu Tu''s way.


    His experience of two lifetimes had taught him that in chaotic times, a man could have many women beneath him, but none in his heart, or at least... not apparently so.


    Because... that would be the most fatal weakness.


    .....


    After making all his calls, Qiu Tu then focused on driving.


    Ten minutes later, he arrived at the Investigation Bureau building.


    As soon as he got out of the car, a Political Department Investigator dressed in a black uniform ran up to him.


    He opened the door for Qiu Tu and saluted him as Qiu Tu got out, "Greetings, officer. The minister asked me to meet you here!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and asked, "Oh? Where is the minister then?"


    Thanks to Warm Sun Giant for the 100,000 reward. Congratulations to Warm Sun Giant for becoming the Silver Alliance of our book! The boss is generous; I wish the boss good health, a happy family, all the best, and abundant wealth!

 Chapter 53 Dealing with Jia Shu! (Subscribe please!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the detective replied respectfully, "The minister is waiting for you upstairs."Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked up at the Investigation Bureau building.


    It seemed as if he could see a pair of profound eyes watching him...


    He smiled.


    This was not bad news.


    Because... since Jia Shu was still in the Investigation Bureau building, it meant that the Political Department had not yet officially intervened in the matter, and that... the Security Department would have ample time to erase any traces.


    He and Ah-Tai, along with Eagle, would be that much safer...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu calculated the time and formed a rough guess in his mind.


    Old Alley Street, the Qin Family, and City Center Garden roughly formed a triangle.


    And the Investigation Bureau building was right in the middle of this triangle.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau, Qin Heng should still be on his way back, not yet having reached the Qin Family residence.


    Before fully understanding the beginning and severity of the event, Qin Heng wouldn''t ask the Investigation Bureau for help.


    Hence the situation, where he had come to the Investigation Bureau building first, and Jia Shu had not yet left.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but make a further speculation: So... did Jia Shu, knowing something had happened to the Qin Family, call and lock him down immediately?


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered.


    Heh heh... Look at that, this is the real master. A step in chess, seemingly effortless, yet it played a critical role, almost disturbing his own plans.


    It''s known that the outcomes of many plans executed in person and those remotely directed can be worlds apart.


    If Qiu Tu had not connected with the Security Department in advance, tricking the Security Department into covering for him; if Qiu Tu had not taken control of Master Qin Si''s wife and children beforehand, stopping Master Qin Si''s betrayal with just a phone call; he who needed to handle everything personally would have already been defeated by this move.


    So... the greatest danger tonight was indeed here...


    It seems it was time to meet this legendary chief.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu straightened his clothes and then, with a smile on his face, stepped into the Investigation Bureau building.


    The Investigation Bureau building at night was pitch-black, like a monstrous beast choosing its prey.


    Taking the elevator to the 9th floor, Qiu Tu followed the guidance of the detective and arrived at Jia Shu''s office in the Political Department.


    "Knock, knock, knock."


    "Come in."


    Upon Jia Shu''s consent, the detective opened the door and led Qiu Tu into the office.


    "Minister, Chief Qiu is here."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze landed on Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu, dressed in casual clothes, wore a pair of gold-rimmed glasses on his nose, his eyes narrow and smiling behind the lenses.


    If one hadn''t seen his perverse side, they might think he was just an ordinary beast in gentleman''s clothing...


    "Good day, Minister!" While inwardly sneering, Qiu Tu saluted.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu returned a forced smile and pressed his hand down, "Just us folks here, no need for all the formalities."


    His smile narrowed his elongated eyes into slits, imparting a falsely cheerful yet insincere aura.


    Qiu Tu replied seriously, "It''s the protocol, sir. I''m afraid I cannot comply."


    Jia Shu didn''t argue further, waving the detective off. Once the detective had left, he then asked with a grin, "Agent Qiu, you got here quickly."


    He glanced at his watch, "You said 18 minutes, but you only took 15 to get here."


    Qiu Tu said, "I just left the house, turned around, and drove here. Didn''t waste any time on the way."


    Jia Shu gave a half-smile and nodded, then as if out of curiosity, inquired, "Planning a gathering with friends tonight?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes."


    Jia Shu, "Which friend?"


    Qiu Tu, "Wang Tai. He just passed the Special Service Detective assessment the day before yesterday. Celebrating for him."


    Jia Shu, "Where?"


    Qiu Tu, "At a small restaurant on Nanfang Street, number 29."


    Jia Shu, "Who else will be there?"


    Qiu Tu hmm, "Some friends who grew up with me and Ah-Tai."


    Jia Shu swept his gaze over Qiu Tu twice, finding no flaws, then asked again, "Did you receive any calls on the way?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes!"


    Jia Shu, "Whose?"


    Qiu Tu, "The first call was from Ah-Tai, asking where I was. I told him I had official business and couldn''t make it."


    "The next few calls were from Master Qin Si."


    Jia Shu uttered an "Oh" with an interested look on his face, "Master Qin Si? What did you talk about?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu and said without any change in expression, "He cursed at me. Said that I took his lead and then turned around to betray him."


    "Said he would never let me off."


    "I hung up on him several times. But he kept calling back."


    "Finally, I answered the call again and cursed a few words back at him."


    "Do you need me to repeat the content of his curses at me and mine at him?"


    The smile on Jia Shu''s face became incredibly brilliant, "No need. We''re just making small talk."


    "After all, I''ve disrupted your plans for the evening, so I care about you."


    After saying this, he acted as if he was indeed just making casual conversation, reached out to open a drawer, and took out a file to toss to Qiu Tu.


    "This is your mission for tonight. We just caught a ''Female Captain'' from United Front who had infiltrated Xinjie Chamber of Commerce."


    "You''re working overtime to interrogate her. See if there are any breakthroughs."


    Qiu Tu received the file, and while looking down at it, he asked, "What methods can we use?"


    Leaning back in his chair with a half-smile, Jia Shu watched Qiu Tu and teased, "Does Chief Qiu also understand interrogation?"


    Looking up at him, Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "No."


    "But I understand killing."


    The playful look in Jia Shu''s eyes was almost spilling out as he watched Qiu Tu with interest, his narrow eyes narrowing, "No bottom line; the Political Department isn''t lacking in death quotas." S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Yes!"


    After assigning the task, Jia Shu waved his hand, "Alright, go on with your work."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then turned and left the office.


    Once Qiu Tu had left the office, silence slowly returned to Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu sat quietly in his chair for a while before reaching out to pick up an upside-down document from the desk.


    Opening the file, it clearly recorded Qiu Tu''s call history from just the past several minutes.


    Xinjie City was newly established, and the Information Department of the Investigation Bureau was not fully equipped, with limited devices, so they could only record and monitor the targeted call history.


    Thus, he only had reports of incoming and outgoing calls on Qiu Tu''s communicator after he had called Qiu Tu.


    The record clearly showed that the first call was from Ah-Tai to Qiu Tu, lasting only over ten seconds.


    Then it was Master Qin Si calling Qiu Tu, also a brief talk of a dozen seconds.


    After that, Master Qin Si made three consecutive calls that went unanswered.


    Finally, Master Qin Si made a fourth call, Qiu Tu answered, and the two talked for some twenty seconds.


    It all exactly matched what Qiu Tu had just claimed.


    "Interesting... very interesting...."


    Jia Shu''s smile became more and more splendid, his pupils turning slightly red, as if filled with the desire of encountering prey....


    ...


    Carrying the file, Qiu Tu didn''t let his guard down after leaving Jia Shu''s office but methodically carried out the task Jia Shu had given him.


    He turned and headed for the Interrogation Section.


    Approaching the door of the Interrogation Section, laughter and chattering from the lit room could be heard.


    A young girl''s curious voice, "Sister Liu, come on, tell us what''s going on between you and Section Chief Liu from next door?"


    A mature woman''s voice, "Hoho~ there''s nothing going on between us. We''re just ordinary friends."


    A young man''s voice, "No way~ I see you two exchanging glances every day, there''s got to be something."


    The girl, "Yeah, yeah, I was on duty the other day and even heard Liu Ke feeding you in the meeting room, saying it was too big and you couldn''t swallow it."


    "You little wench, you''re asking for trouble! Keep blabbing and see what happens!"


    "Giggles."


    Listening outside, Qiu Tu felt as if a certain part of his body had stiffened....


    Indeed, the office was always brimming with juicy news....


    With this thought, he coughed and knocked on the door.


    Hearing the knock, the noisy chatter inside instantly ceased.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu pushed open the door and stepped inside.


    In the afternoon, Jia Shu took Qiu Tu to the Interrogation Section and had already met everyone.


    So, as soon as they saw Qiu Tu, the three men and two women present stood up with varying expressions and called out in a jumble, "Good afternoon, Chief." "Hello Chief Qiu." "Good to see you, sir." "Sir!"


    .....


    Meanwhile, in Jia Shu''s office.


    The desk phone suddenly rang, "Ring ring ring."


    Jia Shu, sitting in deep thought, snapped back to reality, glanced at the caller ID, and immediately picked up the phone.


    "Bureau Chief, is there news?"


    Yan Chen''s deep and husky voice came from the receiver, "Hmm... Ji Chen just reported. Old Fourth Qin has run off, and his wife and children were moved away early."


    "Qin Shuman has also disappeared."


    "The detectives who were protecting her and the maid were knocked out and dumped in a warehouse. But because the fire wasn''t severe, no one was hurt."


    "The fire has now been extinguished, and after a brief inspection by Ji Chen, it was found that the ignition points were all in the remote courtyards of the Qin Family."


    "It seems Old Fourth Qin is leaving room for both the Qin Family and us."


    "He might have been compelled."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s analysis, Jia Shu''s gaze flickered slightly as he pondered quietly.


    After a moment, he asked, "Bureau Chief, do you have any suspects?"


    Yan Chen didn''t respond directly but instead asked in a low voice, "Has Qiu returned to the Investigation Bureau?"

 Chapter 54 The Beautiful Young Widow (7000 words, asking for Monthly Tickets)

    Jia Shu "Hmm"ed and then actively reported, "After I called him, it took him less than 15 minutes to arrive at the bureau.""On the way here, he answered six phone calls, five of which were from Master Qin Si," Jia Shu continued.


    Yan Chen, discernibly intrigued, "Oh?" responded, "How did he explain that?"


    Jia Shu said with a smile, "His explanation was perfect."


    "He said Master Qin Si was calling to scold him, accusing him of betraying Master Qin Si," Jia Shu explained.


    "He couldn''t stand being scolded, so he hung up, but Master Qin Si continued calling, continuing to scold."


    "Finally, he couldn''t take it anymore, and he fought back against Master Qin Si, which made Master Qin Si stop harassing him."


    "The causes and consequences of the calls were clearly explained, and it all seemed very reasonable," Jia Shu remarked.


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen rarely cracked a smile. His laughter was eerie, sending shivers down the spine.


    After his laugh, he asked, "Do you believe him?"


    By then, Jia Shu was also laughing so hard his smile nearly reached the heavens, "I believe him, my ass."


    "How can there be so many coincidences in the world, all of which just happen to occur to him?" Jia Shu questioned.


    Yan Chen "Hmm"ed, gradually reigning in his amusement, and then solemnly instructed, "Then investigate along those lines."


    "Let''s see what exactly our little friend is planning, to stir up such a fuss..."


    "Yes!" Jia Shu respectfully responded...


    After hanging up the phone, Jia Shu sat quietly in his office for a while. After organizing all the information, he picked up the desk phone and dialed a number.


    A moment later, the connection was made, and Jia Shu, with a smile, gave an order, "It''s our turn."


    Having said that, he hung up the phone, stood up and donned an overcoat, then left the office to head downstairs...


    Walking through the dark corridor, Jia Shu''s mind involuntarily revisited the scene from half an hour ago.


    At that time, Yan Chen had informed him that the Qin Family''s place had caught fire, and Master Qin Si had fled.


    His initial thought was to have the Political Department intervene immediately to investigate the matter.


    After all, for such a major incident, each minute''s delay meant the shadowy figure behind the scenes could potentially destroy more clues and evidence.


    However, Yan Chen insisted that Qin Heng should first return to the Qin Family, and only after proactively requesting support from the Investigation Bureau, would they get involved.


    He had three main reasons for this.


    First, as Qin Heng had just aligned with him, it was important to save face for Qin Heng and the Qin Family;


    Second, no one cherishes what they get easily; only what is earned through hard work is truly valued.


    Third, Xinjie City was newly established and all the powers that be were rough around the edges. Even if they were given some time to cover their tracks, with the methods of the Political Department, the truth would still be uncovered.


    Both of their perspectives were correct: one from the standpoint of solving the case, the other from a political standpoint.


    Ultimately, Jia Shu heeded Yan Chen''s arrangement.


    But now that it was time to start the investigation, Jia Shu couldn''t shake the feeling that due to this half-hour delay, something about the whole affair seemed to have shifted in an unforeseen way...


    Yet, what could happen in just half an hour?


    He''d even confined the prime suspect, Qiu Tu, within the bureau...


    With that thought, a trace of deep contemplation flashed behind Jia Shu''s spectacles.


    A moment later, he took out his communicator and made a call.


    "You don''t have to join this operation, go to the surveillance room and keep an eye on Qiu Tu for me," he instructed.


    Suddenly, a man''s voice came through the phone, "Yes, Director."


    Having finished all this, Jia Shu put on his mask of a forced smile and headed downstairs, stepping out of the Investigation Bureau building.


    By then, a T-model car had already stopped at the entrance of the Investigation Bureau building, where a few middle-aged men, evidently experienced, were already waiting.


    They were senior detectives who had followed Jia Shu and Yan Chen from the Sanctuary to Xinjie City, where they were promoted in situ to heads and deputy heads of various departments.


    This was the backbone of Yan Chen''s confidence in handling this case.


    Today, due to the unexpected blaze, they were urgently gathered together to work in collaboration once again...


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time as Jia Shu and his team embarked on their case.


    In the office of the Interrogation Section.


    Qiu Tu was also scrutinizing the detectives standing in front of him.


    The Interrogation Section is a major division of the Political Department, containing subgroups such as the interrogation team, service team, psychological analysis team, forensic pharmacist team, and the records and archives team.


    Similar to other departments of the Political Department, these groups operate independently, but when confronted with a case, members are drawn from each to form a special task force.


    The three men and two women present tonight were members of the "espionage case" task force. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Song Qing, the young lady who had just made an off-color joke. Female, Third-Level Detective, a records officer from the records and archives team.


    Wang Xi, male, Second-Class Investigator, the young pharmacist from the forensic pharmacist team who had just spoken.


    The other two silent, burly middle-aged men were Third-Level Detectives from the service team, responsible for the security of detectives during interrogation and assistance with the process.


    As for the last one, the sultry young widow, of course, she was just the protagonist of the "Peach Blossom News"... Liu Fuping.


    She was in her early thirties, widowed, childless. When she laughed, she always preferred to look at people with a sideways glance, her slightly upturned, amorous peach blossom eyes exuding allure in every glance.


    A woman like her naturally became the source of office gossip.


    After a brief glance at the beautiful widow, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Sister Liu, how come you look even more beautiful tonight than this afternoon?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s teasing, Liu Fuping''s peach blossom eyes curved up, and with a roll of her eyes toward Qiu Tu, she somehow appeared even more captivating.

 Chapter 54 The Beautiful Young Widow (7000 words, asking for Monthly Tickets) _2

    Upon hearing this, the young girl Song Qing and the Pharmacist Wang Xi exchanged a glance and visibly relaxed, then both began to laugh. The tense atmosphere in the room immediately dissipated¡­ sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.With a single sentence, Qiu Tu had closed the gap with several of his subordinates and began to discuss the serious matters at hand.


    He slapped the documents in his hand onto the table and then inquired, "Tonight''s mission is to conduct a surprise interrogation of a female spy from the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu called out to the young girl Song Qing, "Recorder, please introduce this female spy''s situation to everyone first."


    "Yes, Chief!" Song Qing stepped forward upon hearing the order, and then began to introduce to everyone, "This female spy''s real name is Yin Caimei, the secretary and mistress of Vice President Tian of the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce."


    "According to Vice President Tian''s recollection, it was in March of last year, not long after the establishment of Xinjie City, that he encountered Yin Caimei."


    "At that time, Vice President Tian had gone to the black market on Xiafang Street privately to investigate the potion business, when he coincidentally met Yin Caimei."


    "Vice President Tian said that Yin Caimei was wearing a green military coat at the time, dirty and squatting in an alley, looking like a beggar."


    "And upon seeing Vice President Tian, she suddenly sprang out from the corner, flung her military coat open, and asked Vice President Tian if he needed a communicator, claiming they were all good stuff from the Sanctuary."


    "Vice President Tian was in the business of selling communicators himself. Hearing her say that, he became somewhat curious. So, he took a closer look at the communicators she had strapped all over her."


    As Song Qing reached this point, a suppressed laughter rose in the office.


    Interrupted, Song Qing looked at Qiu Tu with a wronged expression.


    Qiu Tu, with a smile on his face, said, "Go on, continue."


    After glaring at the others, Song Qing continued, "Vice President Tian said after examining them for a while, he confirmed that these devices were fakes."


    "But since it''s rare to meet a ''colleague,'' he asked her one more question, ''Are these things real?''"


    "To which, who would have thought, Yin Caimei directly pulled out a wanted notice from the Sanctuary to prove that she really did steal the communicators from the Sanctuary. Well... of course, this wanted notice was also fake."


    "Perhaps finding the girl in front of him amusing, Vice President Tian became interested in Yin Caimei and extended an olive branch to her."


    "He said that he was in the communication business himself and now needed an assistant, asking her if she was willing to help him."


    "At first, Yin Caimei was a bit skeptical, wondering if she had encountered a true ''colleague.''"


    "But after seeing Vice President Tian''s luxury car, she believed him."


    "And just like that, Yin Caimei joined Vice President Tian''s company as a secretary. Afterwards, their relationship grew closer. By the end of last year, Yin Caimei naturally became Vice President Tian''s mistress."


    "However, since Yin Caimei joined Vice President Tian''s communications company, strange things started happening: some of Xinjie City''s logistics companies would consistently be robbed by the Anti-government Armed Forces after leaving Xinjie City."


    "The frequency was more than three times higher than other cities'' similar companies. Soon, these companies faced enormous losses."


    "Until two months ago, the Interrogation Section, while investigating a case, incidentally found an unidentified bugging chip inside a suspect''s communicator."


    "Following this lead, the Interrogation Section discovered more businessmen and officials who had been bugged."


    "Using these clues, the Interrogation Section narrowed down the suspects to within Vice President Tian''s company. Finally, they caught Yin Caimei, the spy from the Anti-government organization."


    At this point, Song Qing paused and scanned the other agents. Then she added, "Additionally, it needs to be mentioned that Vice President Tian has a special status."


    "Due to his significant assistance during the establishment of Xinjie City and his substantial influence on the entire business environment of Xinjie, the Sanctuary awarded him the ''Peak Third-Level Medal'' last December."


    "As a result, not only can he attend the Municipal Committee and participate in policy discussions, but he also has a third-level exemption right: unless Yan Chen, the Bureau Chief, authorizes it in writing and reports it to the Sanctuary, our Political Department cannot initiate an investigation against him."


    "Moreover, considering his close relations with various members of the Municipal Committee, heads of government departments, and our cooperation with the Information Inquiry Office, we need to be cautious when handling this case."


    Having said this, Song Qing nodded slightly towards Qiu Tu to indicate she had finished her report.


    Qiu Tu listened and actually found the case quite interesting. However... no matter how interesting, it wasn''t of much concern to him.


    He had a clear understanding of his role tonight: he wasn''t really here to interrogate or investigate.


    His task, or rather Jia Shu''s directive for tonight, was simple: stay within the confines of the Investigation Bureau, and go nowhere else!


    Therefore, all he needed to do was stay in the Investigation Bureau. Whether the case was solved or not was irrelevant.


    Of course... he would still need to do the work on the surface.


    With that in mind, he looked around the office and then said, "I believe everyone has understood the case details that Song Qing just mentioned."


    "This is not a small case; it likely involves a high-profile figure who has received a ''Peace Medal.'' So, everyone should be on their toes and take care not to be negligent," he continued.


    After finishing, he clapped his hands and said, "Alright, let''s start fetching the suspects and prepare for interrogation!"


    "Yes!" The detectives present responded in unison...


    .....


    Being seasoned operatives in the Interrogation Section, they knew the following interrogation procedure. So, without any instruction from Qiu Tu, they went about their tasks methodically.


    Song Qing and two detectives from the duty team went to escort the prisoners with the authorization document, whereas Liu Fuping and Wang Xi followed Qiu Tu to the interrogation room for early setup.


    Having a calm demeanor meant Qiu Tu behaved naturally and relaxedly.


    When he got to the interrogation room, he just watched Wang Xi and Liu Fuping tinker with the equipment; he even casually glanced over Liu Fuping''s peach-like buttocks a few times.


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s wandering gaze, the beautiful and young Liu Fuping didn''t forget to throw a coquettish glare back at him while retrieving instruments of punishment.


    But possibly because of her fully ripened age, her glare had no trace of intimidation; it even added layers of charm to her.


    Therefore, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face became even thicker.


    While he was exchanging flirtatious looks with his subordinate, suddenly, "buzz buzz buzz..." the communicator in Qiu Tu''s left pocket started to vibrate gently.


    Feeling the vibration in his left pocket, Qiu Tu was briefly startled, then he no longer acted nonchalantly but regained his alertness and composure.


    Because... the communicator on the left was Ah-Tai''s.


    He covertly slipped his hand into his pocket and hung up the call.


    Then he glanced at Wang Xi and Liu Fuping, who were busy preparing potions and tools for the interrogation.


    The two of them obviously hadn''t heard the vibration of the communicator and were still moving things around.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu naturally picked up the communicator, glanced at it, and saw that the caller was... Lin Zuo''s number.


    Qiu Tu''s mind stirred, silently calculating the time.


    If he hadn''t miscalculated, the Security Department should have already cleared all traces of tonight''s events by now.


    And Lin Zuo should have already met with Master Qin Si and conducted a simple questioning.


    So, Lin Zuo calling now could only mean one thing: he had realized he had been deceived, that Master Qin Si had no evidence of Yan Chen colluding with the United Front whatsoever...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu made up his mind.


    ''Hmm, it seems that it''s time to wrap up my final move for tonight...''


    ---

 Chapter 55 Using Cataclysmic Ability (7000 words, seeking follow-up readership)

    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took the communicator and said to Liu Fuping and Wang Xi, "You guys get ready, I''m going to make a call."Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping responded with a sweet voice, "Yes, Commander."


    Wang Xi also stood up straight and respectfully replied, "Understood, Section Chief."


    After greeting the two, Qiu Tu took the communicator and went to the end of the corridor.


    Instead of redialing immediately, he... first used his "Cataclysmic ability."


    Ever since he left the Interrogation Section''s office, Qiu Tu felt like someone was watching him.


    As a newly awakened Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu was sure his Spiritual Perception couldn''t be wrong.


    So he surreptitiously checked his surroundings to ensure no one was there; then, he focused his attention on the surveillance cameras scattered throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    As one of the three major institutions of power in Xinjie City, the Investigation Bureau was equipped with complete security measures and anti-theft systems. This included several surveillance cameras in each floor''s corridor.


    Ordinarily, no one would watch these cameras; they were just for show.


    But today''s unusual feeling led Qiu Tu to speculate: Could someone be observing him through the surveillance?


    This suspicion peaked while he was exchanging flirtatious glances with Liu Fuping.


    Because he noticed that, at that time, that sense of being "watched" disappeared for a moment. Qiu Tu guessed that the watcher had become bored and either had a momentary distraction or shifted their gaze away.


    And now, as he was about to make a phone call, that feeling of scrutiny returned. Clearly, the watcher had also noticed Qiu Tu''s "situation."


    Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if the Investigation Bureau''s cameras had audio capabilities, so he had to... eliminate all possibilities as much as he could.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu tried to use his "Cataclysmic ability" for the first time.


    There was no difficulty, no unfamiliarity; it was as if it was an inborn instinct. As the notion surged in his heart, the Cataclysmic ability "Reshape Order" immediately took effect.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s eyes turned deep blue once again, the misty gray fog spread, and the surrounding environment began to fade away...


    He found himself standing in a narrow space of only four square meters.


    He felt like he could be the omnipotent god in this space, acting at will: nobody could refuse him, and nobody could resist him...


    It was the intoxicating feeling of standing at the pinnacle of power, in command of everything!


    ''Is this... my Cataclysmic ability?''


    Qiu Tu silently marveled to himself, then forced himself to calm down and set the rules for this "Order Space" for the next 24 hours.


    "When I enter this space, all people, machines, and Treasures outside will only see, hear, and record me continuously dialing the phone without getting through... "


    As the rule was established, the gray mist dispersed, the physical world returned, and everything seemed no different from just a moment ago. But... it was entirely different.


    Qiu Tu turned and looked back, and Liu Fuping was also looking his way.


    Their gazes met, but the beautiful matron, as if she hadn''t seen Qiu Tu at all, casually brushed her hair and turned her head away.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew the rule he had set was in effect.


    He didn''t delay; rather, he immediately pulled out two communicators, first using Ah-Tai''s communicator to return a call to Lin Zuo.


    Then, he used his own communicator to dial Ah-Tai''s communicator.


    Of course... since Ah-Tai''s communicator was in the process of making a call, it couldn''t go through...


    Having done all this, the call from Lin Zuo came through.


    He was clearly waiting for Qiu Tu''s call, so as soon as it rang, he picked it up.


    Upon picking up, Lin Zuo''s chilly voice came through, "Qiu Tu. You''re messing with the Security Department."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knew Lin Zuo had indeed inquired with Master Qin Si.


    But he couldn''t admit it, so he laughed and said, "What are you talking about, Section Chief Lin? You''re from the Security Department. If you gave me eight guts, I still wouldn''t dare to toy with you guys."


    Lin Zuo chuckled twice and said, "Is that so?"


    "Then why does Master Qin Si say he doesn''t know anything about Yan Chen colluding with the Anti-government Armed Forces?"


    "Furthermore, he said you also deceived him. You told him, we were investigating the Qin Family''s collusion with the Anti-government Armed Forces!"


    "How do you explain that?"


    Feigning surprise, Qiu Tu said, "Ah? Is that so?"


    "Impossible!"


    "He personally told me yesterday that he had evidence against Yan Chen!"


    After this, Qiu Tu hesitated for two seconds before pretending to come to a realization, "Could it be that he got scared and changed his mind?"


    "Section Chief Lin, let me tell you, that old man started to get cold feet on his way to you. He called me several times, with threats and attempts to ingratiate himself, all because he no longer wanted to report on Yan Chen. But after I threatened him with his wife and children, he finally went to you."


    "I reckon he deliberately lied to you because he''s afraid of offending Yan Chen."


    "Qiu Tu, you motherf@#%!@"


    "Son of a b@#!*#!"


    "You''re really not a f@#!#!"


    And just as Qiu Tu was pinning all the blame on Master Qin Si... from the communicators came a barrage of expletives fragrant with Master Qin Si''s anger.


    Obviously... possibly worried that Qiu Tu could hoodwink them, Lin Zuo, while making the call, had switched on the speakerphone. Qiu Tu''s attempt to frame Master Qin Si was heard by Master Qin Si himself, word for word.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu touched his nose, feeling that this was the most embarrassing situation he had encountered since crossing over to this time.


    It wasn''t really his fault. Who would have expected the normally rule-abiding Lin Zuo to breach confidentiality protocols and let an outsider listen to a conversation between two secret departments?


    However... fortunately, he had a Plan B.


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu also dropped his joking demeanor and said seriously to Lin Zuo, "Section Chief Lin, what you are doing is a violation of the confidentiality regulations."


    "I have the right to report your dereliction of duty to the military after this case is over."


    Lin Zuo was not intimidated by Qiu Tu; he said coolly, "That''s assuming you get past this current hurdle."


    "Qiu Tu, I''m giving you one last chance to explain. If your explanation still doesn''t satisfy me, then I will terminate our cooperation and report your actions to City Hall and the Investigation Bureau."


    "Let them deal with you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, displaying complete indifference as if being sliced to ribbons, "You won''t do that. If you report me, City Hall and the Investigation Bureau will find out that you''re secretly investigating Yan Chen."


    "Conducting a private investigation of a high-ranking official without evidence¡ªthat''s a major scandal. Not to mention your own department, even General Ye might face reprimands from the Sanctuary."


    "You!" Lin Zuo was clearly infuriated by Qiu Tu''s defiant attitude.


    Just as he was about to argue with Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu said, "Alright, Section Chief Lin, I''ll stop teasing you. I do have some progress to report. Now, give the phone to Qin Shuman; I need to speak with her directly."


    Qin Shuman''s real identity was Section Chief of the Security Department''s investigation division, and Lin Zuo, as her confidant, of course knew her position.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had also had in-depth exchanges as comrades-in-arms. Therefore, he understood her all too well.


    Among the four people on either end of the phone, only Master Qin Si was in the dark about Qin Shuman''s identity.


    So he looked bewilderedly at Qin Shuman, who was slowly standing up, a whole host of question marks above his head:


    Wait a minute? Qin Shuman taking a call? What does that mean?


    Isn''t she just Yan Chen''s mistress, Qiu Tu''s fling?


    Why does Qiu Tu need to speak directly with her?


    Before he could figure it out, Qin Shuman casually walked over, reaching out for the communicator. Seeing this, Lin Zuo also proactively handed the communicator to Qin Shuman.


    Seeing this scene, Master Qin Si was even more confused:


    Wait a minute? Qin Shuman taking a call, and this Security Department''s Section Chief Lin has no objections?


    And... why does he seem so respectful towards Qin Shuman?


    Just what is Qin Shuman''s real identity?


    With these thoughts, Master Qin Si''s gaze couldn''t help but drift towards Qin Shuman''s shoulder wrapped in bandages, still marked with spots of blood...


    In that instant, only one thought crossed his mind: Oh shit! Has Qiu Tu screwed me over again?!


    Who the hell did I actually stab?!


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman had also started talking to Qiu Tu while Master Qin Si was still in shock.


    First, she turned off the loudspeaker, then with a charming smile and a gentle voice tinged with a sting, she said, "Chief Qiu really is ruthless, huh~~"


    "Here I am, being so sincere to you, yet not only do you play our Security Department for fools, you also let me get stabbed for nothing~~"


    Master Qin Si''s face went deathly pale.


    And at that moment, on the other side of the communicator, Qiu Tu, also laughing, said, "Shuman, you have to understand me, everything I''ve done has been for you."


    "Oh? Really?" Qin Shuman obviously didn''t believe him, and laughed as she asked, "Can Chief Qiu really just shift the blame to someone else like that?"


    Qiu Tu, keeping a grip on the rhythm of the conversation, timely threw out his bait, "I''m not shifting blame, everything I said is true." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''m currently under Jia Shu''s surveillance and don''t have time to explain in detail."


    "But I hope you can believe me, all of this is to find a cure for your condition. And fortunately, I really did find one..."


    ---

 Chapter 56 The Deal with Qin Shuman (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s pupils contracted sharply, and her body trembled slightly.Because¡­ Qiu Tu had perfectly seized her vulnerability.


    As a Cataclysmic, Qin Shuman was desperate to resolve her current situation.


    This was not only because the body she was in now was too special, too sensitive, too dangerous, but also because¡­ the operational rules of Cataclysmic ability.


    All Cataclysmic abilities were supported by a "price". The stronger the ability, the higher the price.


    Over a short period, the "price" could still be "paid" with "spiritual power".


    But once the time was too long, if the spiritual power was not enough to pay, or it could not be paid with spiritual power, unimaginably dreadful things would happen¡­


    And now, Qin Shuman had been using the possession ability for four days, pushing the limits of her ability. She really could not imagine the horrors that would happen in a few more days¡­


    By then, even if she returned to her own body, it might already be too late.


    That''s why she had seduced and given herself to Qiu Tu, why she had risked revealing her identity to him, why, without knowing the plan, she had unhesitatingly followed Qiu Tu''s arrangements, leaving the Qin Family with Master Qin Si.


    After all, the "Mysterious person" who had "possessed" the original "Qiu Tu" was the only lifeline she could grasp.


    In fact, Qiu Tu did manage to do just that. Although he had used Master Qin Si and the Security Department, he did successfully rescue Qin Shuman from a precarious situation.


    The only thing Qin Shuman didn''t expect was that although she thought Qiu Tu was so kind to her because he truly cared, in reality, Qiu Tu was someone just like her: outwardly loving and devoted, but inwardly exceedingly rational.


    The knife from Master Qin Si was a warning to Master Qin Si, as well as to her: no matter how deeply involved, interests remain separate¡­


    In troubled times, there is no room for love-struck foolishness...


    Thus, when faced with another lure cast by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman was not immediately overcome with confusion.


    Knowing that Qiu Tu excelled at manipulating people''s hearts, she quickly analyzed the truthfulness of Qiu Tu''s lure, the benefits he wanted to exchange, and weighed the pros and cons...


    After a moment, she had her answer. She waved her hand toward Lin Zuo.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo nodded, then took Master Qin Si to the next room and closed the door.


    Once the room was empty, Qin Shuman walked to the window, lowered her voice, and calmly stated her price, "Tonight''s operation was independently completed by our Security Department Investigation Department. It has nothing to do with you."


    "The cause of the matter is that we''ve been investigating the Qin Family''s collusion with the Anti-government Armed Forces, so we made contact with Master Qin Si."


    "This time, the Qin Family wanted to push Master Qin Si to be the scapegoat. In desperation, he took a wild risk, set fire to the Qin Family, and killed Qin Shuman. Afterward, he was taken away by our Security Department for protection."


    "This will be the official record and archives. No matter who inquires, it will remain as such."


    "Moreover, I assure you that even if the Political Department sends a letter demanding people, we will not hand over Master Qin Si and his family."


    "Or¡­ we won''t hand over anyone alive."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu laughed.


    He knew that Qin Shuman''s asking price was to take the entire blame and perhaps face an internal disciplinary action, all to ensure her safety.


    But he still shook his head, "Not enough."


    Qin Shuman wasn''t surprised; she pondered for two seconds, then raised the stakes again, "I recall you have several good friends."


    "I''ve observed them over the past few days and found that they have potential."


    "I can recommend two of them to join the military. And I guarantee one of them will be promoted to Lieutenant within a year."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment.


    Lieutenant, equivalent to a First Level Detective, usually holds the position of a platoon leader in the military department, commanding about 30 soldiers. It''s practically the limit of promotion for ordinary people.


    The conditions offered by Qin Shuman were more than generous.


    But Qiu Tu still shook his head, "Not enough."


    Qin Shuman was a bit exasperated and was about to retort when this time Qiu Tu took the initiative and said, "I would also like some information about Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic abilities."


    Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment and finally exhaled two words slowly, "Deal."


    After the deal was done, the atmosphere became much more amiable.


    Qin Shuman visibly relaxed, but she didn''t forget to warn Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, I have already shown enough sincerity; if you dare to deceive me, then don''t blame me for being unkind."


    "At that time, I''ll get even for the black pot I''m carrying today, as well as for this stab wound on my body."


    Qiu Tu laughed audibly and then teased, "They say ''For one day as husband and wife, a hundred days of kindness''."


    "Does Miss Shuman really have the heart to do me harm?"


    Qiu Tu emphasized the word "day", instantly adding a hint of flirtation to the conversation.


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman''s voice became seductive. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With a voice so soft it could make a man''s body go numb, she said, "Chief Qiu had the heart to stab me~~ how could I possibly not have the heart to stab you~"


    "Rest assured~~ I''m not as heartless as you. When it''s time to stab you, I''ll definitely choose a pretty knife~~ A pink one, does Chief Qiu like that~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu laughed aloud and asked in a relaxed tone, "Then Miss Shuman, shall we meet tomorrow at 11 pm at the Milan Grand Hotel?"


    Qiu Tu''s laughter seemed to infect Qin Shuman; the corners of her mouth involuntarily lifted slightly, and then she gave a light hum from her nose.


    The two exchanged a few more words offhandedly, then ended the communication.

 Chapter 56 The Deal with Qin Shuman (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After putting down the communicator, Qin Shuman smiled softly and stood quietly for a while before her gaze unintentionally swept toward the window.Perhaps because the room was a bit dim, the window glass reflected the light, and a stunning woman with a touch of shyness was clearly mirrored on it.


    Seeing her own image, Qin Shuman was visibly stunned for a moment.


    Then she quickly suppressed the expression on her face, muttering to herself in her heart, ''Why on earth am I smiling? What''s there to smile about after a verbal confrontation with that bad man?''


    ''It must be the residual instincts of this body....''


    Having said that, she turned around to leave the room. Perhaps because she moved her shoulder where the knife wound was, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but tremble.


    She then clutched the knife wound on her shoulder, gritting her teeth, and whispered softly, "What a damn man."


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time, inside the Investigation Bureau building.


    Qiu Tu also hung up the phone.


    Compared with Lin Zuo, Qin Shuman and he were in the same boat¡ªpartners with aligned interests, standing or falling together.


    So since Qin Shuman had agreed to take the blame for him, he believed she would handle the matter well.


    And with the Security Department serving as the scapegoat, the lies Qiu Tu had been weaving since his arrival were now changing from ''false'' to ''true.''


    Even if Jia Shu and Yan Chen were cunning and felt something was amiss, they could not refute one fact: the Security Department indeed went down.


    As a result, all of Qiu Tu''s lies from the past few days were now ''confirmed.''


    Including his conjectures about Qin Shuman''s identity, his suspicions about the Qin Family, and his warnings to Yan Chen.


    Following this logic to reassess the whole situation revealed something interesting: it appeared Qiu Tu truly had been ''wronged.''


    And the suspects of Yan Chen and Jia Shu became the culprits behind the Investigation Bureau''s failure this time....


    This was Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal for the entire plan tonight. To thoroughly clear his own name of ''wrongful accusations'' and get rid of all the unstable elements around him.


    Even if Yan Chen and Jia Shu still had their doubts afterward... it was already too late, Qin Shuman was ''dead,'' Master Qin Si fled, and the archives of the Security Department were documented. They had no evidence or reason to continue their questioning.


    And the ''truth'' of the entire event finally became irrevocable.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu, who had finally executed the entire plan, took a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief in his heart.


    Regardless, the crisis was resolved, Qin Shuman was free, and he himself had awakened his Cataclysmic ability.


    Only Yan Chen, Jia Shu, the Qin Family, and Master Qin Si''s painful night were achieved.


    Next, as long as he didn''t slip up and slowly dealt with Yan Chen and the others...


    Hmm... and I need to investigate what exactly happened on the day I traversed, between the original ''Qiu Tu'' and the original ''Qin Shuman.''...


    For some reason, every time he thought about that day, Qiu Tu always felt vaguely uneasy...


    Contemplating silently for a while, Qiu Tu took several deep breaths to compose himself, then got ready to ''return to reality.''


    He packed away the two communicators and then deactivated his Cataclysmic ability.


    With the deactivation of ''Reshape Order,'' matter restructured, lines refilled, and everything around him returned to normal.


    The next second, Qiu Tu felt a bit dizzy in his head. It was a sensation much like after using his Spiritual Vision for half an hour.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat surprised.


    ''It''s only been five or six minutes, right? Why does it feel like it drains so much energy?''


    ''Does my Cataclysmic ability consume a lot of spiritual power?''


    ''If I were to maintain it for 24 hours, how much spiritual power would it use up?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu steadied his body and kept his expression in check before discreetly returning to the interrogation room...


    .....


    At this moment, in the interrogation room, the female spy had already been brought in and was shackled to a chair. Liu Fuping, Song Qing, and Wang Xi were discussing the upcoming interrogation process in whispers on the side.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, they promptly saluted and greeted him. Qiu Tu waved his hand, gesturing for them to continue.


    As a mascot, Qiu Tu knew his role, so he observed and learned throughout the entire interrogation without giving unsolicited advice like an amateur.


    And after a whole night of interrogation, Qiu Tu was left with two impressions.


    The first was... this female spy was actually a fraud?


    Moreover, her deceit was outrageously excessive! She really took men for fools.


    The second was that Liu Fuping, that beautiful young wife, seemed fiery, but when she made her move, she was really ruthless.


    Watching her manicured hands break the female spy''s fingers one by one, Qiu Tu felt his scalp tingle.


    Most importantly, even when she was torturing someone, her peach blossom eyes were full of affection, and her lips still held a smile.


    Now, Qiu Tu even had a bit of admiration for Section Chief Liu next door: Could it really not leave any psychological scars?


    .....


    Throughout history, there have been few who could withstand endless torture and interrogation.


    So, there were not many surprises in the whole interrogation.


    The female spy had confessed almost all the intelligence the Interrogation Section wanted to know.


    For example, her method of contact with the United Front, the process and details of how she secretly installed listening devices, her codename, her superiors, and so on....


    And according to her confession, her infiltration into Vice President Tian''s side was purely accidental. She was originally just an ordinary scout, who unexpectedly hooked up with Vice President Tian.


    This also led to her being a free agent, without accomplices by her side.


    Qiu Tu had his reservations about the intelligence gained through this method of interrogation.


    But he was just an overseer, so he didn''t interfere much.


    Thus, by the time the entire interrogation was over, daylight was already breaking.


    After everyone had packed up the interrogation scene, they stretched and walked out.


    Qiu Tu was leading the way, with Liu Fuping following by his side.


    After last night''s interrogation, Qiu Tu dared not have any thoughts about the beautiful young wife in front of him, but... he might not be interested, yet this beautiful young wife took the initiative to strike up a conversation with him.


    "Commander, you must be tired after a whole night of interrogation, right?"


    Qiu Tu yawned, "It''s okay. Just a bit sleepy. After all, most of the work was done by Sister Liu. If anyone should be tired, it''s you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping said lazily, "I am indeed a bit tired. I just want to go home, take a bath, and have a good sleep."


    As she spoke, she stretched, and her fully developed curves were just perfectly outlined in front of Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up with roguish light, and suddenly, he wasn''t sleepy anymore...


    Not sure if she noticed Qiu Tu''s gaze, Liu Fuping dropped her arms, threw him a coquettish look, and boldly invited, "My place is nearby, do you want to come over and sleep for a bit, Commander?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s heart skipped a beat, feeling a familiar sense of being lured into a trap.


    His mind quickly cooled down, but he feigned surprise and said, "Go to your place to sleep? Sister Liu, if you put it that way, my mind might wander. Let''s go, let''s go! I can''t wait any longer!"


    "Ho ho ho ho~~~", Liu Fuping laughed loudly at Qiu Tu''s blatant teasing, playfully hitting him, while her soft waist pressed against Qiu Tu''s body.


    Qiu Tu laughed and enjoyed the flirtation, while his mind grew even more calm...


    The few agents from the Interrogation Section behind them glanced at each other. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Pharmacist Wang Xi gestured towards the backs of the two with a jerk of his mouth and winked at the young girl Song Qing.


    Song Qing rolled her eyes and mouthed an appraisal: adulterer and seductress....


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    In the Information Department''s Surveillance Room at the Investigation Bureau.


    A shadow also received a phone call.


    After picking up, the voice of Jia Shu came through, asking, "How is it? Any abnormalities?"


    -----

 Chapter 57 Golden Finger Refresh +1 (7k Seeking Follow-up Reads!)

    Hearing Jia Shu''s question, the shadow replied softly, "Everything is normal."On the other end of the communicator, Jia Shu "hmm" in acknowledgment but remained silent for a long time, without revealing his signature laughter.


    Sensing something unusual about Jia Shu, the shadow asked, "What''s wrong? Did the investigation last night not go smoothly?"


    Jia Shu came back to his senses upon hearing this and said with a chuckle, "It went very smoothly. It''s just... the outcome was a bit unexpected...."


    ....


    At 10 a.m., in Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in the City Center Garden.


    That dimly lit study.


    The desk lamp cast a dull yellow glow, the whole room was haze-filled, wisps of smoke entwining in the air, constantly rising and spreading over time.


    Yan Chen was half-shrouded in darkness, the other half... with a hand holding a cigarette, he smoked and squinted, deep in thought.


    Jia Shu stood in front of him without saying a word.


    The room was immersed in an eerie silence.


    Time passed in this way, perhaps a minute, or perhaps fifteen minutes had elapsed.


    When only the cigarette butt remained in Yan Chen''s hand, he stubbed it out in the ashtray and then hoarsely asked, "So... have we been misunderstanding Qiu Tu this whole time?"


    Jia Shu wasn''t smiling anymore. His face was devoid of any expression, and the gold-framed glasses added to his severity.


    He shook his head, "I didn''t say that."


    "But... there certainly is that possibility."


    Having said that, he explained, "Last night, we started our search with Old Fourth Qin and his wife and child. It took us to many places."


    "But the more we searched, the less it made sense."


    "When we backtracked and started over, we realized that a lot of the key clues and information had been erased."


    "After hours of searching, we could only confirm that Old Fourth Qin vanished from the Milan Grand Hotel, and we had almost no other leads."


    Speaking to this point, Jia Shu adjusted his glasses and said earnestly, "This irrational phenomenon, however, has pointed us in a new direction."


    "The few of us are the elite from the Sanctuary, with professional detective training. Which forces in Xinjie City could possibly escape our sight, who are more professional than us?"


    "The military...?" Yan Chen narrowed his eyes slightly and quietly uttered two words.


    But in a moment, he shook his head and corrected himself, "Not just the military. It should be the Security Department of the military."


    Jia Shu nodded in agreement, "Yes."


    "Most of Xinjie City''s other forces are country bumpkins; even the best among them are only at an amateur level."


    "They couldn''t possibly erase all traces and sever all clues within a short 30 minutes, leaving us with no leads to follow."


    "This level of professional technique could only be accessed by mid-level management from the Sanctuary. That means people from the Investigation Bureau, the military, and City Hall."


    "Although City Hall is the highest authority and has the most middle management, most of them are civil servants and do not possess such professional means."


    "And the people from our Investigation Bureau were all summoned by me last night; they didn''t have time to commit the act."


    "So it can only be the military, or rather, the Security Department of the military that has this capability."


    At this point, Jia Shu paused, then continued, "We''ve been rivals with the Security Department for many years and are familiar with each other''s tactics. So once we zeroed in on the target and investigated in this direction, we quickly found some subtle traces."


    "So, it''s confirmed that the mastermind behind last night''s actions was indeed the Security Department."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression changed unpredictably.


    He lit another cigarette and slowly said,


    "Last night, Master Qin Si set the Qin Family estate on fire and took Qin Shuman away. Shortly afterward, the Security Department stepped in to cover their tracks."


    "That indicates Master Qin Si and Qin Shuman are with the Security Department...."


    "And Qiu Tu initially said he suspected something was off with Qin Shuman, suspecting her of having another identity."


    "So, he... didn''t lie to me?"


    By the end, Yan Chen''s brow was deeply furrowed.


    Jia Shu didn''t know what to say either. He fell silent for a moment before adding, "Last night, Old Fourth Qin deliberately held back, refraining from burning the main Qin residence and from killing the agents guarding Qin Shuman, indicating he was being coerced."


    "So he''s more likely not the mastermind behind the whole plan, but rather just an executor."


    "So..."


    Yan Chen''s eyes narrowed further, "So, is it likely that the mastermind of this plan is Qin Shuman?"


    "Does this further confirm Qin Shuman''s identity?"


    At this, Yan Chen paused, "However, Qiu Tu still got Qin Shuman''s identity wrong. She is not with the Municipal Committee as he had guessed, but with the military."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly and continued, "And... if Qin Shuman really is from the Security Department."


    "Then it makes even more sense that she could offer something like the Aurora Stone as an awakening material to bribe Qiu Tu."


    Yan Chen nodded and replied in a low voice,


    "Indeed... the Security Department is the one responsible for handling extraordinary affairs."


    Just as Qiu Tu had analyzed and predicted before, Yan Chen and Jia Shu had never trusted him, and thus they had never believed that Qin Shuman was a spy either.


    But when the Security Department got involved and Qin Shuman''s identity as a spy was confirmed, all of the logic the two had previously held was overturned.


    This shock made them inherently start analyzing the situation from Qiu Tu''s perspective.


    As a result, the more they analyzed, the more they felt Qiu Tu was wronged and that Qin Shuman was the root cause of everything.


    This would also make them overlook many flaws and details in Qiu Tu''s lies¡ªor even if they noticed them, they would find reasons to gloss them over.


    So... the room once again fell into silence for a time. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now that the situation was "clear", the two realized they had reached an impasse.


    They initially didn''t trust Qiu Tu and had not controlled Qin Shuman immediately.


    Now that Qin Shuman had escaped, they no longer had any pretext to confront the military about it.


    After all, as long as there was no person caught red-handed, the military would not acknowledge Qin Shuman''s identity, and there were too many reasons they could use to whitewash the whole affair.


    For instance, Qin Shuman was just an ordinary person, and Yan Chen had irritated Master Qin Si, so in his escape, Qin Si could''ve abduct Qin Shuman, made Yan Chen a cuckold, and then killed her.


    Then, the Investigation Bureau would not only fail to achieve anything good but would also be embroiled in an even bigger scandal.


    "One wrong move in the game..."


    Yan Chen silently sighed and then looked toward Jia Shu, asking, "What do you think?"


    By then, Jia Shu had gradually returned to his state of strategic command. His eyes behind the glasses were flickering with a cold light,


    "I feel... there are still many suspicious points in the whole matter. Qiu Tu''s facts are too coincidental, and some anomalies on his person are indeed difficult to..."


    Yan Chen raised his hand to interrupt him, saying a bit wearily, "Stop focusing on Qiu Tu for now."


    "No matter how many doubts he has. His judgment of the whole matter is correct. Indeed, someone is causing trouble by my side."


    "He is all merits and no demerits. It''s us who did not trust him."


    Yan Chen said, "What I''m asking is, how should we deal with the Security Department matter?"


    After crushing a cigarette butt in the ashtray, he regained the demeanor of one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, and said deeply, "I can''t just swallow this loss."


    Jia Shu''s face wore a smile, and he said with a semblance of jest, "I have two suggestions."


    "One is... we also have our moles in the military, in the Security Department."


    "Let them investigate who is secretly probing you. Is it General Ye? Director Dai? Or some department head who''s out of his place!"


    "After that, we deal with it specifically."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly and asked in a low tone, "And the second one?"


    Jia Shu''s smile grew even brighter, "The second is... didn''t Qiu Tu say that Qin Shuman had approached him?"


    "Let''s go with the flow and simply turn him into a double agent. Let him continue to interface with the Security Department."


    "We could let him feed the Security Department some non-critical intelligence to gain their trust."


    "As for the task we give him, it''s simple, just one, that is to find out the other moles the Security Department has by my side, inside our Investigation Bureau..."


    "This task can most simply discern his allegiance and also solve problems for you..."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen''s eyes flickered slightly, and finally, he nodded slowly...


    ....


    After teasing Liu Fuping and having a bit of fun, Qiu Tu returned alone to the Interrogation Section.


    As the Deputy Staff Officer, he had a leadership position, but not a private office.


    Therefore, he could only find a random meeting room to catch up on sleep.


    He had exhausted a lot of brainpower, energy, and physical strength the previous night. Using "Spiritual Vision" and his "Cataclysmic ability" had worn out his spirit. He desperately needed some sleep now.


    So he went to sleep deeply, and in his dreams, Qiu Tu vaguely sensed someone entering the meeting room.


    Then they covered him with a coat and left...


    He felt the person was familiar, but perhaps too tired, he couldn''t recall who it was...


    And like that, he slept until 2 pm, when Qiu Tu slowly awoke from his sleep.


    He stretched, feeling revitalized!


    But just then.


    Suddenly, a few lines of prompts appeared before him.


    [Acquired Cataclysmic ability, became a Cataclysmic. Golden Finger position +1, the number of refreshes +1.]


    [Current 2 Golden Finger positions, 1 fixed position, one random position. Refreshing frequency once per month.]

 Chapter 58 Acquiring a New Golden Finger

    Seeing the prompt before his eyes, Qiu Tu, who had been in a bit of a daze, suddenly tensed and became fully alert!He sat up straight and looked around to make sure no one else was in the conference room before carefully examining the changes to his Golden Finger.


    On the first day of his transmigration, Qiu Tu had discovered that his Golden Finger was different from that of other transmigrators. While others had only one Golden Finger, his could be refreshed and fixed.


    However, since the conditions had not been met at the time, he had not known how to trigger these two functions.


    Now, with the prompt, Qiu Tu also had a moment of realization: It seemed that his Golden Finger evolved with the enhancement of his Supernatural Power, didn''t it?


    So, would it mean that he just needed to continue improving his strength to gain more Golden Finger slots and more refresh opportunities?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also tried to check his Golden Finger''s brand-new panel.


    [Golden Finger Slot: 1/2, Refresh Opportunities: 1 (once per month)]


    "Golden Finger Name": Crisis Intuition (Unfixed, refreshable)


    "Golden Finger Type": Trigger type


    "Golden Finger Effect": When facing a major crisis, Crisis Intuition will be triggered and provide the corresponding Crisis Warning. If the crisis is successfully overcome, you can obtain rewards related to the crisis.


    "Golden Finger Slot 2": Vacant (refreshable)


    After reviewing the entire Golden Finger panel, Qiu Tu had a more comprehensive understanding of his Golden Finger.


    After becoming a Cataclysmic, he would have two Golden Fingers. Moreover, he also had the opportunity to refresh a Golden Finger once a month.


    If he felt that a certain Golden Finger was not useful, or he didn''t need it temporarily, he could refresh it.


    And if he felt that he would need a certain Golden Finger in the future, he could temporarily fix it and make it a regularly used Golden Finger.


    ''Indeed powerful....''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not waste any more time, but prepared to refresh his second Golden Finger.


    He first fixed [Crisis Intuition], then lightly tapped to refresh.


    Without any special effects or sound, the next second, the panel for his second Golden Finger changed.


    "Golden Finger Name": Loyalty Game (Unfixed, refreshable)


    "Golden Finger Type": Passive & Active Type


    "Golden Finger Effect (Passive)": You will see the impact of your actions and words on your subordinates and superiors.


    "Golden Finger Effect (Active)": You can actively check the "Subordinate''s" Loyalty. And... once a certain level of Loyalty is reached, initiate the Loyalty Game.


    Note: Subordinates include your directly reporting juniors, those under your command in name, or those who are controlled by you and submit to your authority. Past subordinates are also included in this scope.


    Looking at his new Golden Finger, Qiu Tu blinked his eyes.


    A multi-functional Golden Finger?


    The Loyalty Game?


    Seems... pretty interesting.


    From the description of this Golden Finger, he could not only see the impact of his every word and deed on his superiors and subordinates, but he could also actively check the Loyalty of subordinates and start a "Game"?


    Although he didn''t yet know what the "Game" was about, Qiu Tu felt that this whole Golden Finger fit well with his upcoming development plan: gathering followers, expanding his group, and increasing his influence within the three major forces.


    And combined with [Crisis Intuition] giving him danger warnings....


    ''One "defense," one "expansion," perfect!''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was eager to test out his newly acquired Golden Finger.


    He got up and was about to leave the conference room when he realized that a uniform had slid off his body.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then glanced at the epaulettes on the uniform.


    Two bars with a flower.


    That was one more bar than Qiu Tu''s, which meant... it was a senior level position.


    Qiu Tu then looked at the color of the uniform. Black. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu felt goosebumps all over his body.


    He vaguely remembered someone entering his office in his sleep and covering him with a piece of clothing.


    Because [Crisis Intuition] hadn''t given any warnings, Qiu Tu hadn''t paid it any mind.


    At that time, he had thought that it might be the beautiful young widow Liu Fuping, or the cute Song Qing, who had covered him with the clothing.


    At worst, it could have been Secretary Bai checking on him after starting work and draping a piece of clothing over him on her own initiative.


    But... he had thought it over and over and never expected that it would be Jia Shu who had covered him!


    After all, only the Political Department of the Quan Investigation Bureau wore black uniforms, and there was only one senior level official in the Political Department....


    That instant, Qiu Tu felt that his entire being was not alright. What crafty scheme was that sly old fox conceiving this time? Or did his sexual orientation suddenly have some issues?


    But... as the old saying goes, a higher-ranked official can crush you to death. When one''s immediate superior shows concern, one should at least say thank you.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu pushed aside his desire to test the new Golden Finger and decided to meet with Jia Shu first.


    He folded the uniform neatly, got up, and walked towards Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu''s office had two locations, one on the 12th floor at the top level and one on the 9th at a midpoint.


    The former was his private office as a high-level official of the Investigation Bureau, while the latter was where he normally worked.


    And Qiu Tu was headed to the office on the 9th floor.


    But just as he got to Jia Shu''s office door, before Qiu Tu could knock, the door to the office opened by itself: Liu Fuping, carrying documents and swaying gracefully, came out from inside.

 Chapter 58 Acquiring a New Golden Finger_2

    With a backward wave, Liu Fuping yawned and then looked up to see Qiu Tu standing there.When she saw Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping paused for a moment, then she lazily lifted her hand and saluted, "Good day, sir~~"


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind and asked with a smile, "Sister Liu, are you here to report on your work?"


    Liu Fuping spoke lazily, "Yes. The minister takes last night''s case very seriously. Thus, he had me come over to report on the interrogation."


    "Poor me just took a bath and lay down, hadn''t slept long before being called up~ My skin''s feeling awful now."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu intentionally leaned closer to Liu Fuping, examining her closely.


    Liu Fuping touched her face, puzzled, "What''s wrong?"


    Qiu Tu feigned surprise and said, "You said your skin was feeling bad, didn''t you? I just took a close look, and if I didn''t know your age, Sister Liu, I''d have thought you were a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl."


    "Hahaha..." Liu Fuping couldn''t straighten her waist from the laughter that Qiu Tu''s teasing induced, her chest heaving. She punched Qiu Tu lightly a few times, "Sir, if you keep flirting with me like this, be careful I might just cling to you~~"


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +1]


    Spotting the prompt that floated before his eyes, Qiu Tu''s eyes sparkled slightly. He hadn''t expected that this could also increase loyalty.


    He was inclined to tease the beautiful young woman before him a bit more, but just then, a cough from Jia Shu sounded in the office, "Ahem!"


    At the almost explicit reminder, both felt a slight chill.


    Liu Fuping pointed towards the door and then made a "I''m leaving" gesture with her hand, before sneakily fleeing the scene.


    Qiu Tu too adjusted his emotions, straightened the uniform that had been mussed, and reached out to knock on the door.


    "Knock knock knock..."


    "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed the door open and entered Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu was looking at him with a smile, teasingly saying, "Chief Qiu adapts quickly to the environment. Just in a day''s time, you''ve already ingratiated yourself with the subordinates."


    Qiu Tu, never one to be embarrassed, went along and said, "It''s all for the sake of getting the job done."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile, not dwelling on the previous issue, but switching to a different topic, "Does Chief Qiu know what happened last night?"


    Qiu Tu naturally asked, "About Master Qin Si''s escape?"


    Jia Shu nodded.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "With Master Qin Si causing such a fuss last night, even calling to curse me out, how could I not know."


    With a grin that was not quite a grin, Jia Shu said, "Then do you know if he ultimately managed to escape?"


    Qiu Tu, showcasing his acting skills, first froze, then pretended to be surprised and asked, "He escaped? How did he manage that?"


    As Qiu Tu spoke, Jia Shu''s narrow eyes were fixed intently on him.


    Not spotting any flaws, Jia Shu then said with a forced smile, "He was taken away by a secret department of the military, the Security Department."


    "The Security Department?" Qiu Tu timely showed a hint of confusion, "What does this have to do with the Security Department?"


    Then, pretending to ponder for a second or two, he showed an expression of sudden realization. He then asked tentatively, "Minister, does this have to do with Qin Shuman?"


    When Jia Shu heard Qiu Tu''s words, his face immediately showed satisfaction, "You guessed right."


    He said with a feigned laugh, "Yesterday, when Master Qin Si left the Qin Family, he took only one person with him, and that was Qin Shuman."


    "Plus, you''ve repeatedly pointed out the issues with Qin Shuman''s existence to us."


    "Therefore, we boldly speculate that Qin Shuman is with the Security Department. She must be a mole planted by the Security Department by the Bureau Chief''s side."


    "All the recent events should have been planned and executed by her."


    On hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu feigned surprise and asked, "She''s not from City Hall but the military?"


    Jia Shu nodded with a grin that was more of a smirk.


    Qiu Tu acted as if deep in thought, as if piecing together Qin Shuman''s identity with all the recent events.


    After a moment, he asked with a quirky expression, "Then what''s her relationship with the United Front?"


    A satisfied look once again appeared on Jia Shu''s face, "That''s precisely the issue."


    "This morning, I and the Bureau Chief thoroughly combed through all the events that happened after Qin Shuman came to him, and we indeed found a lot of doubt points."


    "And when we positioned her as the mole in the Security Department, most of the doubt points were resolved."


    "Only the United Front point, we just can''t figure it out no matter how hard we try."


    As he said this, Jia Shu stood up and paced back and forth, saying, "You once said she was colluding with the United Front to drum up support for you."


    "But... the most important duty of the Security Department is to combat Anti-government Armed Forces. They should be inherently incompatible."


    Qiu Tu nodded at the right moment, "Indeed, it doesn''t make sense."


    At this point, he changed his tone, "But... the fact is just so. I''m not clear why either."


    Jia Shu said with a smile, "We are not doubting you, we just feel that this woman has many secrets."


    At this point, Jia Shu finally revealed his purpose, "So, Qiu Tu... are you willing to continue your contact with Qin Shuman, to deliver intelligence to her, to help her spy on the Investigation Bureau, to monitor Director Yan?"


    Seeing a surprised expression on Qiu Tu''s face, Jia Shu added with an ambiguous smile, "Of course, I''m not asking you to betray the Bureau Chief, to betray the Investigation Bureau."


    "What specific intelligence can be delivered, and what information can be disclosed, the Bureau Chief and I will authorize and guide you." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time, Qiu Tu was truly surprised. He hesitantly asked, "A double agent?"


    Jia Shu''s smile faded as he spoke earnestly, "Exactly."


    "We now suspect that the military or the Security Department has been infiltrated by the anti-government organizations."


    "It''s very possible that there are spies from the anti-government organizations among the leaders of the military and the Security Department."


    "One of the main tasks of the Political Department is internal supervision and counter-espionage. So we cannot just sit back and do nothing."


    "So, I hope you can take on this important task, to be a double agent..."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    What could Qiu Tu say?


    Since Jia Shu had so "kindly" offered him the chance to contact Qin Shuman, how could he possibly refuse.


    So after feigning hesitation for a while, he finally nodded and agreed.


    Seeing Qiu Tu agree, a rare, genuine smile appeared on Jia Shu''s face.


    Then he provided detailed instructions on the work Qiu Tu had to do going forward.


    Like how to reconnect with Qin Shuman; what intelligence could be revealed and what could not; what information Qiu Tu needed to probe from Qin Shuman, and so on...


    Thus, the two talked in detail for an hour before ending their conversation.


    After the talk, Jia Shu personally saw Qiu Tu out of the office.


    At the door of the office, he patted Qiu Tu heavily on the shoulder and said earnestly, "Do a good job. The Bureau Chief and I have high hopes for you."


    Qiu Tu quickly showed a flattered expression, "Thank you for the recognition from the Bureau Chief and the Minister!"


    "I will certainly do my best!"


    Jia Shu smiled and nodded.


    He watched Qiu Tu leave, waiting until he reached the end of the corridor, turned the corner, and disappeared from view before Jia Shu''s expression gradually turned cold.


    He looked thoughtfully down the corridor where Qiu Tu had vanished, wondering what he was thinking...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having left Jia Shu''s line of sight, no longer had the eager look from before.


    He frowned slightly, pondering whether Jia Shu''s sudden move was a test or a true intent to investigate the Security Department.


    ''Could they really trust me?''


    Qiu Tu felt something was off but also thought he might be overthinking...


    Just then, a prompt suddenly appeared in front of him.


    [Jia Shu: Doubt-0, Satisfaction+0]


    Qiu Tu:???


    ---

 Chapter 59 Testing the New Golden Finger (7k for subscription)

    Seeing the prompt that suddenly popped up before his eyes, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered that his new Golden Finger ability allowed him not only to see the loyalty changes of his subordinates but also to notice how his superiors'' attitudes toward him changed.So, after having such an enthusiastic chat with Jia Shu and acting for so long, Jia Shu was completely unmoved?


    When he saw Jia Shu looking at him with appreciation just now, he almost thought that Jia Shu truly believed in him and intended to cultivate him as a confidant.


    It turns out that in the drama of life, it''s all about acting.


    You act me, I act you, and no one knows for sure who is sincere...


    And when he thought about the incident of Jia Shu draping a coat over his shoulders, Qiu Tu felt even more chilled¡ªhe suddenly remembered that Jia Shu never wore a uniform.


    So Jia Shu had put on his uniform just for him...?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s gaze sharpened, and he once again resolved in his heart: he must take out Jia Shu.


    Having such a venomous snake watching over him meant he could never sleep peacefully!


    After encountering Jia Shu and inexplicably receiving a task to be a double agent, Qiu Tu returned to his original "mission line"¡ªto test out his newly acquired Golden Finger.


    His first target, of course, was the numerous subordinates in the Interrogation Section.


    The Interrogation Section had one Principal Staff, two Deputy Staffs, and Qiu Tu was the third Deputy Staff.


    Since he had just joined the Interrogation Section yesterday, his management scope hadn''t been defined yet, so theoretically, everyone in the Interrogation Section with a lower rank than him counted as his subordinate.


    Thus, Qiu Tu simply took advantage of his position to inspect each work team in turn.


    [Song Yan, Loyalty: 35]


    [Wang Xue, Loyalty: 37]


    [Cheng Jianxin, Loyalty: 31]


    [Chen Fan, Loyalty: 32]


    [...]


    As the newly appointed chief in the department, most agents took an attitude that was neither offending nor overly friendly towards him.


    So everywhere Qiu Tu went, the agents all stood up, saluted, and greeted him. Although they were polite, they were not very enthusiastic.


    This indeed matched their loyalty ratings of around 30.


    After making his rounds, Qiu Tu guessed that "30 Loyalty" might be a threshold, indicating that they recognized Qiu Tu as their superior and were willing to follow his orders.


    If Qiu Tu assigned tasks or scolded them, they wouldn''t openly defy him; after all, they still needed to have a place in the department.


    If the loyalty rating was below 30, it could mean that Qiu Tu couldn''t even maintain his authority as a chief in front of them, and they might covertly resist his orders.


    If the loyalty rating was above 30, for example, 40, 60, 80, they would become increasingly convinced by Qiu Tu and follow his instructions.


    Even at a certain high level of loyalty... if Qiu Tu asked them to defy the orders of the Investigation Bureau or betray the Bureau, they would comply.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu gained some general understanding of what the loyalty rating numbers meant.


    With this understanding, he went specifically to check on the five agents of the "Female Spy Special Task Force" he had led personally last night to see if they would differ from the others.


    After checking, Qiu Tu discovered that two agents from the service team had loyalty ratings not much different from the rest: 39 and 40.


    But the Pharmacist, Wang Xi, and the record keeper, Song Qing, were more interesting.


    Wang Xi had the highest loyalty rating he had come across on his way: 45.


    Contrastingly, Song Qing was at the opposite end, with only... 28. The lowest in the entire department.


    This left Qiu Tu puzzled. He had no idea how he had offended this girl.


    Hadn''t he not done anything yesterday? Are women truly this unreasonable?


    And throughout the whole process of testing the Golden Finger, the only disappointment for Qiu Tu was that he hadn''t run into Liu Fuping.


    It seemed like the beautiful young wife had taken the day off again to catch up on sleep at home.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu was very curious to know how much loyalty this beautiful young wife had toward him, whether it was higher or lower than an ordinary agent?


    This would determine how Qiu Tu would perceive her...


    ....


    In no time, a day passed.


    At five o''clock in the afternoon, Qiu Tu finished work on time.


    After slacking off the entire day, he felt energetic and was ready to go home and get ready to meet up with Qin Shuman.


    However, just as he left the department, he bumped into his superior, the Chief of the Interrogation Section: Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao was a man in his early thirties and a confidant who had come down from the Sanctuary along with Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Being able to serve as the chief of the ace section of the ace department of the Investigation Bureau, he was deeply trusted by Yan Chen and Jia Shu and was cultivated as a key figure by both.


    He did not disappoint Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s trust, working in a steady and meticulous manner, with the ability to unearth and cultivate talent.


    This could be seen from the orderly completion of the interrogation by several agents of the "Female Spy Special Task Force" last night.


    It should be noted... these agents were merely ordinary people recruited from Xinjie City just last year.


    To be able to train them to the point where they could independently complete complex interrogations in less than a year is proof of his capability.


    Comparing this to the agents in the Special Service Department who hadn''t even mastered how to handle a gun... the difference was instantly clear.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t act arrogant but saluted respectfully, "Good day, Chief."


    Zheng Tao seemed preoccupied, nodded expressionlessly, and brushed past Qiu Tu, ready to leave.


    Qiu Tu, who offered a warm face only to receive a cold shoulder, didn''t mind. He shrugged and prepared to continue on his way home.


    But just after he took a couple of steps, Zheng Tao behind him seemed to snap out of it and suddenly turned around, asking, "Chief Qiu, are you leaving work now?"


    Qiu Tu let out a bewildered "Huh?" He stopped in his tracks and turned around, baffled, "Yes, it''s time to get off work."


    Zheng Tao glanced at his watch and frowned slightly, "You leave as soon as it''s time? Do you see anyone else leaving?"


    Qiu Tu was full of question marks.


    He had worked overtime all of last night, and he was scheduled to work overtime again tonight as a double agent¡ªnot to mention he was simply leaving at the regular quitting time. What was wrong with that?


    Was Zheng Tao taking out frustrations on him that he faced elsewhere? Or...was his management technique to pua his subordinates into working overtime?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t indulge him. He pretended to look around, then feigned realization, "Indeed, no one''s leaving. Chief Zheng, I get it. Don''t worry, I''ll call everyone to leave together right now!"


    With that, Qiu Tu made as if to rally the investigative teams to leave work together.


    Upon seeing this, Zheng Tao got anxious. He quickly grabbed Qiu Tu and lowered his voice, "Chief Qiu, what are you doing!"


    "What do you mean by leaving work! As agents of the Political Department, we should be working overtime and dedicating every second to the department, to the Bureau! To relieve the Minister and the Bureau Chief of their worries!"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu was full of question marks again.


    You say serving the people, that''s understandable, but working overtime to relieve the worries of the Minister and Bureau Chief?


    Could the person in front of him be a brown-noser?


    However, those were thoughts he could only afford to keep to himself, so Qiu Tu said with a puzzled look, "But we can''t just work without rest either."


    "The value of work is not measured by time."


    "Only with proper rest can we have the energy to throw ourselves into our work."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then smiled and waved his hand, "Anyway, I''m off."


    "Goodbye, sir."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu turned around and left the Interrogation Section with a flourish.


    Working overtime was out of the question; he had lived through the 997 grind in his past life and if he had to go through that again in this life, it would make his reincarnation pointless.


    He was in this world to enjoy life, not to suffer.


    If Zheng Tao wanted to work late, that was his choice, but Qiu Tu was not going to oblige.


    And seeing Qiu Tu just walk away from the Interrogation Section like that, Zheng Tao''s face turned blue with anger.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, sputtering "You... you... you..." for quite some time, eventually letting it go, frustrated.


    Meanwhile, an array of prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Zheng Tao Satisfaction -5....]


    [Song Qing Loyalty +3]


    [Wang Xue Loyalty +1]


    [Cheng Jianxin Loyalty +4]


    [...]


    Seeing this array of prompts, Qiu Tu nearly missed a step as he walked downstairs.


    His head was filled with question marks: ??


    Well, it turned out that bunch of investigators had been eavesdropping on his conversation with Zheng Tao.


    But...just by firing off a few comments about overtime, he gained so much loyalty?


    Just how much were that group oppressed by Zheng Tao normally...?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment. Suddenly, he remembered the Female Spy Special Task Force working through the entire previous night and continuing work today.


    It dawned on Qiu Tu... perhaps this was a way he could leverage change in the Interrogation Section...


    .....


    As he thought this over, Qiu Tu drove back to his own place.


    He was meeting with Qin Shuman tonight and needed to prepare in advance.


    After parking his car at the end of the alley, Qiu Tu locked it and, swinging his car keys, walked toward his house.


    However, as soon as he entered the alley, a scream pierced his ears, "Oh my God! A ghost!"


    Qiu Tu jumped in shock and quickly looked in the direction of the sound, only to see a neighbor scramble away in panic.


    Confused, Qiu Tu looked around but saw nothing out of the ordinary.


    Touching his head in puzzlement, he continued to walk down the alley.


    Initially thinking the neighbor was just ill, he was taken aback to find that everyone who knew him ran faster than monkeys at his approach.


    More question marks formed over Qiu Tu''s head as he failed to understand what was happening.


    He looked down at his attire, and though the black uniform of the Political Department might be quite intimidating to ordinary people, it shouldn''t be enough to make anyone flee at the sight of it, right?


    What on earth had happened?

 Chapter 60 Heard I Died? (7k for Monthly Tickets)

    Qiu Tu''s philosophy had always been to ask whenever he didn''t understand something, rather than stewing in his confusion alone.So, when he encountered yet another neighbor who ran away at the sight of him, Qiu Tu swiftly stepped forward with an agile move and grabbed the fellow by the collar, "Uncle Chen, what are you running for?"


    In Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu was considered a person of stature.


    Before the establishment of Xinjie City, he ruled over several nearby streets, leading the likes of Ah-Tai and Eagle.


    Although he wasn''t particularly warm to the local neighbors, he didn''t bully people like other groups did. He would even occasionally stick his neck out to help resolve troubles for the neighbors.


    After Xinjie City was established, Qiu Tu, through his connection with Secretary Bai, joined the government ranks, instantly becoming a lofty figure in the eyes of those neighbors.


    But Qiu Tu still didn''t throw his weight around the streets. Instead, he leveraged his relationship with Yan Chen to find jobs for his brothers like Eagle who followed him, and even secured some benefits for the street, truly full of the milk of human kindness.


    This way of conducting himself also earned him a good reputation and a certain degree of prestige in the street.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had never before encountered a neighbor who took off running at the sight of him.


    What surprised him even more was that once he stopped Uncle Chen, the man''s face instantly turned dead white. He kept bowing and scraping to Qiu Tu, mumbling nonstop, "Qiu Tu, we had no quarrels in the past, and no enmity in recent days."


    "When you were alive, I even watched your door for you. Yes, I stole two potatoes from you once, but I was starving. Please don''t take me with you."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu caught a keyword with sharp ears, "when you were alive."


    He thought backward and realized... did these neighbors think he had died?


    Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly, and holding onto Uncle Chen, he "smack smack" slapped him twice, jolting him awake...


    After getting slapped, Uncle Chen wasn''t scared anymore. Instead, he shouted with excitement, "Qiu Tu, you''re not dead? You scared me to death! I thought I had encountered a ghost!"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Looking at Uncle Chen, who was not watching his mouth, Qiu Tu suppressed the urge to slap him twice more, and instead patiently asked about the whole story.


    It didn''t take long... for him to know everything.


    He walked home with a dark face.


    Then... there she was, kneeling on the ground beneath his apartment building, draped in mourning clothes, holding a black and white photo of himself... Shen Lingshuang.


    The little girl couldn''t fill out the mourning attire and looked pitiful. Her big eyes were red and swollen from crying, yet she was still throwing joss paper into the brazier while clutching the black and white photo of Qiu Tu and crying nonstop.


    Seeing this, a wave of exasperation washed over Qiu Tu.


    He approached Shen Lingshuang and asked in a grim tone, "I''ve heard... you''ve been going around telling people I''m dead?"


    When Shen Lingshuang heard Qiu Tu''s voice, she was stunned for a moment, her gaze settling on his black boots.


    Then, bit by bit, her eyes moved upward until she saw Qiu Tu''s handsome and dashing face. Only then did her expression shift from sorrow to disbelief.


    For a moment, she leaped up from the ground and threw herself onto Qiu Tu, then burst into loud sobs, "Wuu wuu wuu! Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu, you''re still alive! Still alive! That''s great!"


    Qiu Tu had originally wanted to teach the "jinx" of a girl a lesson for cursing him to death, but seeing her genuinely distressed look made him go soft.


    He hesitated for a moment, but ultimately, he gently supported the girl''s petite derriere with his right hand and lightly patted her back with his left, soothing her, "Alright, alright, why the tears? Also, who told you that I died?"


    Shen Lingshuang replied with a pitiful look, "No one told me."


    "I guessed it myself."


    Two question marks appeared above Qiu Tu''s head: ??


    Shen Lingshuang explained amidst sobs, "When I woke up, I found the house in disarray, the door damaged, the roof broken, things all over the place. I got really anxious, fearing the worst had happened."


    "After that, I searched everywhere for you but couldn''t find any trace."


    "I asked Sister Xin, and Sister Xin said you were fine, just busy with something."


    "Although I didn''t believe it, I still clung to the last hope at home, waiting for you. I waited for you all night and morning."


    "But when you didn''t come home for an entire night plus a morning, I panicked completely."


    "Then I went to find Eagle to ask about your real situation. I asked lots of people and finally reached the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    "I had someone send a message before Eagle came out."


    "Seeing me, he said you were okay. I asked him to call you, to let you know everything was alright."


    "He claimed he didn''t have a communicator and that you were probably busy. He told me not to disturb you and to go home and wait."


    "Maybe because I experienced too much disappointment starting last night, and with you not returning for the whole night and day, I began to suspect that something had really happened to you, and that he and Sister Xin were worried I''d be upset, conspiring to deceive me."


    At this point, tears came down Shen Lingshuang''s face again, and she said with a choked voice, "I''ve seen too many...."


    Perhaps remembering that the Cataclysm Awakening was a secret, she deliberately left her sentence vague, "I''ve seen too many who had accidents." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''m just too sad, too sad...."


    With that, she buried her face in Qiu Tu''s chest and began to cry again.


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s account, Qiu Tu genuinely didn''t know whether to laugh or cry.


    He felt it wasn''t strange for Shen Lingshuang to overthink. The Cataclysm Awakening was an exceedingly rare event, and right after awakening, he had gone out and not returned the entire night or day.


    If he were Shen Lingshuang, he probably would have had irrational thoughts as well.


    He couldn''t help but feel a tinge of self-blame. He had slacked off all day, how had he forgotten to come back to ease her worries?

 Chapter 60 Heard I Died? (7k for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Thinking this way, his heart softened. He held Shen Lingshuang gently and patted her, then felt a bit conflicted inside.Originally, when he knew that Shen Lingshuang was downstairs mourning for him and burning joss paper, he thought she was just messing around or cursing him.


    After all, it''s quite normal for a young lady to suddenly become petulant.


    But unexpectedly, Shen Lingshuang was genuinely worried about him...


    Silly girl. We''ve known each other for only a few days, and yet she is so upset over me.


    "Whistle--" And as Qiu Tu was thinking this, a whistling sound suddenly came from upstairs.


    Qiu Tu looked up.


    He saw Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun, a few guys, laughing and looking down from the window of the upstairs corridor, clearly enjoying the spectacle.


    Qiu Tu pointed at them with a helpless expression on his face, feeling like he had really encountered a bunch of bad friends.


    Perhaps because she had tired herself out from crying, Shen Lingshuang cried for a while then fell asleep in Qiu Tu''s arms like a koala.


    The girl was only fifteen or sixteen years old, slender, and Qiu Tu, being a Cataclysmic, had undergone a significant boost in strength, so he barely felt her weight.


    Thus, Qiu Tu didn''t disturb her and simply kicked the brazier and the black and white photo aside, then carried the girl upstairs.


    Reaching the upstairs, several brothers were waiting, looking at the two with teasing faces and mischievous smiles.


    Qiu Tu glared at them, carried Shen Lingshuang back to his room and gently placed her on his bed.


    Eagle was quite reliable. The door that Qiu Tu had broken was now replaced with a new one, and it was an iron door at that.


    After closing the iron door and coming to the corridor, Eagle and the others leaned against the window. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Qiu Tu coming out, Eagle passed him a cigarette and softly said, "She''s a good girl."


    "This afternoon, she mourned for you as a wife, with sackcloth and burning paper."


    Qiu Tu held the cigarette in his mouth, paused for a moment while striking a match, then struck it again.


    "Chk~"


    The flame ignited, and Qiu Tu lit the cigarette in his mouth, then said indifferently, "Don''t think too much. She feels that if something happened to me, it would be her fault, and she should take responsibility."


    "Plus she has emotional trauma, that''s why she''s so sensitive about this matter."


    Hearing their conversation, Ah-Tai, the big fellow, popped his head from behind and interjected, "What kind of reason is that? Brother Tu, I''d bet my nonexistent father''s life, that girl likes you a hundred percent."


    Qiu Tu said nothing, just quietly continued smoking.


    Eagle looked up at Qiu Tu and smiled.


    If even Ah-Tai of simple mind could see it, it was obvious Qiu Tu could too; he was just being stubborn.


    However, Qiu Tu was after all the eldest among them, and if he didn''t want to express his stance, it meant he had his own reasons, so Eagle tactfully changed the subject, "Brother Ted, how''s it going for you in the Special Service Department these past two days?"


    Hearing Eagle''s question, Ah-Tai immediately got excited. He waved his thick arms around and boasted, "Do I even need to mention it? Where am I not number one?"


    "Eagle, let me tell you, none of those agents in the training team can match me!"


    "I reckon, in a few days I''ll get promoted. Then I can do more for Brother Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked at Ah-Tai, feeling that it sounded a bit far-fetched.


    He exchanged looks with Eagle and Ah-Kun, finding the same answer.


    But knowing Ah-Tai''s personality, none of them confronted him about it.


    After all, Ah-Tai was someone who loved face.


    They remembered a time when Ah-Tai, while drinking, bragged that he caught a chicken with his bare hands in an alley.


    Eagle, also drunk at the time, questioned his boast¡ªXinjie City was so poor that even a bird that fell could be eaten; how could there be living chickens.


    As a result... for the next few days, every time Ah-Tai saw Eagle, he insisted on taking him to that alley.


    How things ended up, Qiu Tu didn''t enquire, only knowing that the two seemed to be a bit off during that time.


    So, after listening to Ah-Tai''s words, everyone hurriedly agreed, "Ah yes, yes. My Brother Ted is the best in the world."


    "Yeah, there''s no way Brother Ted''s opponents could be those small fries from the Special Service Department."


    "Ah-Tai is really good indeed."


    Seeing the three of them praising him, Ah-Tai immediately broke into a grin.


    After updating each other on Ah-Tai''s recent situation, Qiu Tu turned to look at Eagle and Ah-Kun and asked, "Don''t just talk about Ah-Tai. Eagle, Ah-Kun, how are you guys doing?"


    "Have you passed the selection from the Political Department?"


    Upon hearing this, Eagle nodded his head, and Ah-Kun also spoke up, "Brother Tu, don''t worry. Both Brother Ying and I passed the written and the interviews."


    "The Political Department has already notified us to report there tomorrow."


    "But it''s unclear which department we will be assigned to."


    Qiu Tu took his last puff of the cigarette, slightly nodded his head, then bent down to extinguish the butt and said, "I will be meeting with someone from the Security Department tonight."


    "They''ve promised that they can arrange for me to place two people in the military."


    "When there''s time tomorrow, let''s gather the brothers and see who''s suitable."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the three of them were slightly surprised.


    The youths who grew up together in troubled times knew from a young age that in this dog-eat-dog era, an individual''s strength was too small, and only by sticking together could they survive.


    This principle, even now as they were grown up, flowed in their every vein.


    So, the stronger their small group was, the safer they were. In this era, it meant they could live better.


    "Let''s create a great undertaking together!" Qiu Tu flicked the extinguished cigarette butt away and was the first to extend his hand.


    Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun also stacked their hands on top, "To create a great undertaking!"


    The dying sunlight bathed the four men, golden and radiant, as if foreshadowing the golden age they were about to create together...


    [Eagle Loyalty +1, Current Loyalty: 91]


    [Ah-Tai Loyalty +1, Current Loyalty: 96]


    [Ah-Kun Loyalty +2, Current Loyalty: 87]


    .....


    Having stayed up late and endured a night of fear, Shen Lingshuang was indeed tired, so she slept until past 9 o''clock before she groggily got up.


    The first thing she did upon getting out of bed was to look for Qiu Tu.


    By now, Qiu Tu had already sent Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun away. He had exchanged back the guns and the Communicator, completely eliminating last night''s risks.


    So, he was sitting by the bed, silently pondering the next step in his plan.


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang stirring, Qiu Tu came back to reality, turned his head to glance at her, and softly asked, "Awake? Are you hungry?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu at her side obviously reassured Shen Lingshuang. She fell back onto the bed in her usual lady-like manner, then pouted and said coyly, "I''m not hungry."


    Qiu Tu laughed at her antics and didn''t take offense with the young girl. He went to the living room to bring back some food they had ordered.


    The dishes were, of course, cold, but in these chaotic times, no one cared much about such things.


    Shen Lingshuang was stubborn, but she wasn''t foolish.


    Seeing Qiu Tu bring the food, she immediately said, giggling, "This is you begging me to eat."


    Then she sat up from the bed and began to devour her meal with her chopsticks.


    Seeing her cute ways, Qiu Tu smiled and sat quietly by, watching her eat.


    The young girl must have suffered quite a bit recently, so she gobbled down her food, her cheeks puffing out like a hamster''s.


    Qiu Tu went to get her a cup of water in the middle of the meal and coaxed her to eat more slowly.


    It wasn''t until she was almost full and slowed down that Qiu Tu spoke softly,


    "Ling Shuang, when I initially sought you out to create the ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' we made a verbal agreement."

 Chapter 61 A Night Meeting with Qin Shuman (7k for Subscriptions)

    "You help me refine the potion, I''ll give you freedom.""Now that you''ve helped me refine the potion, I should also give you your freedom."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "You are a suspect proposed by Yan Chen with his pardon power for other uses, and your record has already been erased from the Investigation Bureau."


    "Yesterday afternoon, during the handover with the other agents, I crossed your record off the handover sheet."


    "Plus, with the fire that Master Qin Si started last night, your traces have now been completely cleared."


    "So, you''re free..."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu placed two Little Goldfish and a hundred Silver Yuan on the table, admonishing her,


    "This is the fare for your trip home. Sew it into your clothes in a bit, and make sure no one discovers it."


    "On your way back, be careful and don''t act like a spoilt young lady. Compromise where you can. Others won''t indulge you like I do."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu stood up and left the room.


    But when he reached the doorway, Qiu Tu stopped as if he remembered something. With his back to Shen Lingshuang, he said, "Oh, and remember to close the door when you leave."


    After saying this, he left home without looking back.


    As a pharmacist capable of creating Awakening Elixirs, Shen Lingshuang was well aware of her value.


    And having interacted with Qiu Tu and his people in the past couple of days, Shen Lingshuang also knew how much assets Qiu Tu had.


    So, she really never imagined that after his successful Cataclysm Awakening, Qiu Tu would let her go, and... even leave his "entire fortune" for her as travel expenses.


    In that moment, Qiu Tu reached a new height in her heart.


    She looked up blankly at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, her eyes reddening slightly. After a moment, tears uncontrollably began to fall "plop plop"...


    It had been so long since she left home, and she had never met someone who treated her so well...


    Thinking this, she quickly looked down and shoveled food into her mouth, the food mixed with tears tasted salty...


    After a few bites, she abruptly lifted her head, silently making a decision...


    ....


    [Shen Lingshuang Loyalty+12, Current Loyalty: 83]


    Driving towards the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu saw the alert that popped up but didn''t feel particularly happy. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Guided by the "Emotion Manual", he knew all too well how to manipulate a naive girl like Shen Lingshuang.


    "108 Ways to Enhance Affection" No. 82: Give real emotion while appearing empty-handed.


    Women are emotional creatures, and once the relationship progresses to a certain point, a big gesture can touch her heart far more than small ones (and because the gesture is so grand, she''s likely to refuse to accept it).


    Thus, a decisive departure and leaving all his money to Shen Lingshuang was actually a tactic he used to encourage her to stay of her own accord.


    The reasons were simple. Besides his worry that Shen Lingshuang might encounter danger on her way home, he also desperately needed an experienced pharmacist for his recently established enterprise.


    But for some reason, after all that, Qiu Tu felt a twinge of regret.


    Was it because of the jokes Eagle and Ah-Tai made that afternoon? Or maybe because of Shen Lingshuang''s foolish kindness towards him?


    He felt that his methods were somewhat despicable.


    After quietly reflecting for a while, Qiu Tu''s gaze slowly regained its firmness.


    ''A person with great ambitions shouldn''t bother with trifles. I''ll just have to treat her doubly well in the future.''


    ....


    The twenty-minute drive passed in a flash. At 22:30, Qiu Tu arrived at the Milan Grand Hotel.


    Like the last time, he ordered a cup of tea and sat in the lobby''s resting area, waiting patiently.


    This place might indeed be a base for the Security Department, as it was constantly monitored. Thus, within 2 minutes, a server again delivered an envelope to him.


    Qiu Tu opened the envelope, and inside was indeed another keycard. Room number: 511.


    After taking the keycard, Qiu Tu walked towards the elevators.


    But just as he was about to step onto the elevator, suddenly, his communicator rang out.


    "Ring ring ring..."


    The clear ring of the communicator sounded especially jarring in the empty hall. Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and took out his communicator to look.


    It was a call from Secretary Bai.


    Without hesitation, Qiu Tu answered.


    And then, Secretary Bai''s hushed voice came through, "Qiu Tu, where are you?"


    Qiu Tu, sensing something was off with Secretary Bai''s tone, responded quietly, "I''m out on a mission."


    Secretary Bai uttered a monosyllabic "hm", then spoke softly, "Listen to me now. There''s been an incident in the Interrogation Section, involving the special case team you''re responsible for."


    A chill went down Qiu Tu''s spine as he heard Secretary Bai continue, "The female spy you interrogated last night is dead."


    "She died in the guard room."


    "The specific cause of death is unknown, but foul play has not been ruled out."


    "The Bureau Chief was enraged and personally called for a coroner from the Sanctuary to determine the cause of death."


    "And including you, everyone who has had contact with that female spy in the past two days has been listed as a suspect."


    "This case was already significant, involving the Anti-government Armed Forces, several well-known businessmen in Xinjie City, as well as Vice President Tian with ties to the Sanctuary and several members of the Municipal Committee."


    "Now, with the death of the most important suspect and witness, the pressure on the Bureau Chief is immense. He may be forced to resort to some unconventional methods."


    "You must be very careful...."


    Having said that, Secretary Bai didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu''s response before hurriedly hanging up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." from the receiver, Qiu Tu''s face kept changing.


    The female spy interrogated last night is dead?


    Someone silenced her?


    Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly. This was not good news.


    Because if that female spy really was from the United Front, then it would prove that there might be spies from the United Front within the Investigation Bureau, especially within the Investigation Bureau Political Department!


    It''s no wonder Yan Chen was so furious if spies from the Investigation Bureau''s Intelligence Agency had been infiltrated.


    And considering the significant impact of the case involving the female spy, Yan Chen''s use of extraordinary measures could be justified.


    But why would Secretary Bai want to tip me off?


    As Qiu Tu pondered with furrowed brows, he stepped into the elevator.


    He pressed the button for the fifth floor, and the elevator doors slowly closed and began to ascend.


    "Ding!"


    Just as the elevator doors opened on the fifth floor, a bolt of lightning flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind, and his face turned pale!


    He finally understood why Secretary Bai would take such a big risk to tip him off!


    Because Secretary Bai, or rather Yan Chen... suspected that he himself was the one who carried out the silencing!


    The reason was simple: when he had first crossed over to this time, in order to make Yan Chen wary and pique his curiosity, he tied Qin Shuman to every power related to the Governing Hall and the United Front.


    Yesterday, once Qin Shuman''s identity with the Security Department was confirmed, most of the suspicions were cleared up, except for one: the rationale for her collusion with the United Front didn''t quite add up.


    Originally, with "Qin Shuman''s death" and as time passed, the incident would have slowly faded away, becoming an unsolvable case.


    But who would have thought the United Front spy Qiu Tu handled would be silenced?


    Wouldn''t that immediately raise the level of suspicion against Qiu Tu!


    After all, if Qiu Tu were a spy for the United Front, all doubts regarding the two cases would be neatly and logically explained.


    That''s why Secretary Bai took the risk to warn Qiu Tu, to give him a chance to escape....


    ''Damn! What rotten luck!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curse silently.


    Although he had nothing to fear from a straight back, what he did that night didn''t exactly keep him on the straight and narrow.


    If Yan Chen were to use extraordinary methods such as Supernatural Power to investigate, and it turned out he too had used Supernatural Power that night, he wouldn''t have a leg to stand on.


    ''I must find a way to catch that spy! Clear up this case!''


    ''Otherwise, I''ll be the one in trouble!''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took a deep breath, decided to quickly resolve matters with Qin Shuman that night, and leave some time to figure out the case involving the United Front spy.


    However, just as he thought this, suddenly, the door to room 503 beside him cracked open, and a hand shot out from the darkness, reaching for him!


    The moment the door to room 503 opened, Qiu Tu had already reacted, reflexively wanting to counter-attack. But upon smelling the familiar fragrance, a smile played at the corners of his mouth, and he stopped resisting...


    Thus, the owner of the hand easily seized Qiu Tu, pulling him into the room!


    "Click~" With a soft sound, the door closed, and the corridor returned to its quiet state, as if Qiu Tu had never been there.


    Meanwhile, in the dark room of 503, Qiu Tu felt a soft, seductive body pressing tightly against him.


    A dagger was also pressed against his neck.


    The softness of the body and the coldness of the dagger created a shocking contrast, adding a sense of allure and thrill to the atmosphere.


    "Chief Qiu seems a bit off tonight~~ You''re not as vigilant as usual," came Qin Shuman''s sultry, intoxicating voice from the darkness.


    "In a secret department, losing vigilance is tantamount to death~~ I hope Chief Qiu remembers my words when you''re down below."


    After speaking, the dagger glittering with a cold light slashed towards Qiu Tu''s neck!


    ---

 Chapter 62 Qin Shuman Recovers Her Health (Thanks to

    Facing Qin Shuman''s attack, Qiu Tu was unfazed.If Qin Shuman really had the intention to kill him, his [Crisis Intuition] would have warned him long ago.


    And now... since [Crisis Intuition] hadn''t issued a warning, it proved that... all of this was merely this woman''s "amusement".


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu didn''t dodge but even purposely leaned his neck closer, intending to see if Qin Shuman truly wanted to kill him.


    As expected, at the critical moment, the gleaming cold light from the dagger halted at Qiu Tu''s throat.


    Qin Shuman asked in a sultry voice, "Chief Qiu~~ you''re not dodging? Do you think I still need you to help me recover my body, so you dare not kill me?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu reached out and wrapped his arm around her slender waist, pressing her hot body tightly against his own muscular one.


    Then he whispered into Qin Shuman''s ear, "No... it''s that I would be willing to die by your hand."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s cheesy sweet nothings, Qin Shuman''s face turned slightly red, and the next second, she angrily thrust the dagger into Qiu Tu''s shoulder!


    Unfortunately... the dagger in her hand was pliable, merely a piece of silver-glittering paper, and couldn''t hurt anyone at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu played along and cried out, "Ouch, ouch, ouch. Miss Shuman, you have to take responsibility."


    Qin Shuman was amused by Qiu Tu''s shameless manner.


    She lifted her leg and gave Qiu Tu a knee strike in the stomach, laughing, "So shameless."


    Qiu Tu clutched his stomach but didn''t forget to flirt, "Seems like you still care for me, or else you''d have aimed two inches lower."


    "You!" Qin Shuman was so annoyed she itched to really give Qiu Tu a blow there.


    But regrettably, after teasing, Qiu Tu immediately protected himself thoroughly, giving her no chance at all.


    Seeing this, she glared at Qiu Tu in frustration, but she didn''t continue the tussle and instead turned around, switched on the light, and strode into the room, motioning with her hand, "Come on. Let''s talk."


    It had to be said, Qin Shuman indeed was quite the enchantress. She could be enticing when she wanted and absolutely serious when she needed to be. Just a few steps she took exuded the air of a female officer''s bold and resolute bearing.


    Witnessing this, Qiu Tu also put away his playful demeanor and followed her into the room.


    They entered a hotel bedroom with twin beds.


    On one of the beds lay a woman wearing a dark green military uniform.


    The woman appeared younger than Qin Shuman, but equally stunning. Contrasted with Qin Shuman''s fully bloomed, myriad charms, she conveyed a more steely presence and less coquettish allure.


    Qiu Tu scrutinized her closely, vaguely seeing some of Qin Shuman''s features in her.


    He couldn''t help but look up at Qin Shuman and asked, "Is this your own body?"


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was also looking at her own body. Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she nodded slightly with complex emotions in her eyes.


    However, the next second, she snapped back to reality, then glanced at Qiu Tu skeptically, "Feeling a bit disappointed?"


    Qiu Tu looked at her in confusion, "Disappointed?"


    His tone changed, "I''m even more excited, okay!"


    Qin Shuman choked, throwing him a coquettish glare, "You''re utterly incorrigible."


    Qiu Tu laughed, knowing what Qin Shuman wanted to ask, and sincerely complimented, "Actually, both are comparable."


    Qin Shuman''s lips curled up into a slight smile, which quickly faded. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She strode to a chair and began discussing serious matters, "You said you could help me recover my body?"


    Qiu Tu nodded and then took out the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] from his pocket.


    He explained, "This is a Cataclysmic treasure, named [Purification Holy Vial]. Its effect is to cleanse all Catastrophe Power from the body just by drinking the liquid inside."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman eyed the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] skeptically.


    Then she looked at Qiu Tu with a cynical smile, "Chief Qiu wouldn''t be playing tricks on me, would you~? Is there really such a Cataclysmic treasure in this world?"


    Qiu Tu unblinkingly and unflinchingly nodded.


    "If you don''t believe it, you can try it."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu handed the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] to Qin Shuman.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confidence, Qin Shuman uncertainly took the crystal bottle.


    Pulling out the stopper, she brought it to her nose and fanned lightly with her hand. A strong scent of alcohol assailed her senses.


    She looked toward Qiu Tu with some suspicion.


    Qiu Tu confidently gestured with his hand.


    After a moment''s hesitation, Qin Shuman tipped her head back and drank it all.


    As the liquid from the crystal bottle went down her throat, Qin Shuman furrowed her brows; the liquid smelled like alcohol, and upon swallowing... it felt like alcohol too!


    Burning, acrid, and it was 56-degree liquor!


    Qin Shuman frowned, swallowing the alcohol, then looked up at Qiu Tu with fiery eyes,


    ''Could this bad man actually be deceiving her?''


    At this time, seeing Qin Shuman drink the liquor, Qiu Tu standing in front of her also timely used his own ability [Reshape Order]...


    The next second, the gray mist reappeared, and matter was extracted.


    ''Remove the Cataclysmic ability from this woman''s body, and let her soul return.''


    As Qiu Tu set the rules, a mysterious power suddenly descended upon Qin Shuman with force.


    The second before, Qin Shuman was questioning Qiu Tu. The next second, she felt darkness before her eyes and lost consciousness...


    Watching Qin Shuman slowly collapse onto the bed, Qiu Tu immediately knew the ability had taken effect.


    He tried to lift his ability. The next second, dizziness followed.


    Qiu Tu hurriedly sat beside the bed, silently recovering.

 Chapter 62 Qin Shuman Regains Her Health (Thanks to

    About five or six minutes passed before Qiu Tu felt much better.He looked over at the still unconscious Qin Shuman, his tongue clicking in disbelief.


    This time he had only used his power for a mere ten seconds, yet the exhaustion was almost the same as when he had used it for several minutes the night before.


    It seemed... the "price" you had to pay for rules related to "Cataclysmic abilities" was much greater than that for ordinary rules.


    Fortunately, he had learned his lesson the night before, knowing that his power was not a wish that could come true whenever he wanted.


    Otherwise, if he had delayed a few more minutes tonight, he might have been completely drained.


    With such thoughts, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but silently caution himself in his heart that unless absolutely necessary, he must not overuse his Cataclysmic ability.


    Otherwise, no one knew what terrible consequences might ensue...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu half-reclined next to the two women, silently recuperating his spirit, while casually comparing their sizes, then waiting for Qin Shuman to awaken...


    ...


    "Rain Butterfly" felt like she had had a very long dream. In the dream, she seemed to have become Qin Shuman and was entangled with a man.


    The man was handsome but seemed to have many worries. There was always an indelible sadness between his brows, and a perpetual vigilance in his heart.


    Even though they had shared intimacy many times, even though she was candid with him, he was always on guard against her.


    Like how he clearly reported to Yan Chen and the others that he was a mole from the City Hall.


    But then he turned around and told her he was a mole from the military...


    Like how he had already secretly planned an escape and told her she could cooperate with him, but he didn''t reveal a thing...


    Maybe because she, like him, was a victim of the same incident, two lonely souls dwelling in others'' bodies, she always felt he was special.


    Thus, for such a special person, her interest and curiosity grew more and more...


    And so the dream went on, without knowing for how long.


    When Qin Shuman slowly woke up from her sleep, she found herself lying side by side with another "Qin Shuman," with one hand moving back and forth over their bodies.


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was stunned. She shook her slightly muddled head, and her thoughts gradually returned.


    She touched her face with a bit of surprise, then her body, and swiftly slapped away Qiu Tu''s mischievous hand before heading straight to the bathroom.


    Qiu Tu, whose hand had been slapped away, didn''t mind; he withdrew his hands, crossed them behind his head, and leaned back against the headboard with a smile, watching Qin Shuman get excited.


    Moments later, Qin Shuman ran out of the bathroom, her face excited as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! I''m back! I''m really back!"


    Qiu Tu nodded and teasingly said, "Congratulations, Miss Shuman... No, that''s not right, should I now call you Chief Rain Butterfly?" Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At these words, Qin Shuman also remembered her identity. She knew that Qiu Tu was reminding her, so her expression gradually became reserved, not so openly expressive.


    But even so, when her beautiful eyes looked at Qiu Tu, they still held deep affection.


    After all, only she knew how desperate she felt when her soul was stranded in someone else''s body in previous days, and how much she yearned to return to her own body.


    Therefore, in the face of Qiu Tu''s teasing, she spoke in a seductive tone, "Chief Qiu~ Names are just codes after all. Whatever you like to call it, just call it that~"


    "Between us, it doesn''t matter~"


    "Besides, Rain Butterfly isn''t even my real name~"


    After speaking, she sent Qiu Tu a coquettish glance, then returned to the bathroom to check her body again.


    After a full ten minutes or so, Qin Shuman had adjusted her mood and slowly walked out of the bathroom.


    Qiu Tu scrutinized her carefully.


    Compared to before, Qin Shuman, having returned to her original body, had lost some of the sensuality and frailty, gaining a hint of valiance and pride, her brows expressing strong confidence.


    No wonder she could hold the position of Head of the Security Department at such a young age.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu stretched languidly before reaching into his pocket for a cigarette, intending to take a drag to refresh himself.


    However, just as he placed the cigarette between his lips, Qin Shuman strode up to him and snatched it from his mouth.


    "You should smoke less. It''s bad for your health," she said.


    Feeling the concern in Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu helplessly spread his hands, "Can''t help it, the pressure''s enormous."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman tossed the cigarette away and asked curiously,


    "Why are you under so much pressure? What happened?"


    Qiu Tu blinked, "It''s all because of Vice President Tian''s case and that United Front matter."


    At the mention of "United Front," Qin Shuman froze for a moment before her beautiful eyes took on a serious expression.


    "Vice President Tian and the United Front? What case?"


    In fact, while Qin Shuman was unconscious, Qiu Tu had already been pondering how to "prove his innocence" and how to handle Vice President Tian''s case.


    As he thought, Qiu Tu unintentionally glanced at Qin Shuman lying beside him, and in that instant, an idea sparked in his mind.


    Huh? Could he possibly start with Qin Shuman?


    After all, one of the main tasks of the Security Department was to combat Anti-government Armed Forces.


    And Qin Shuman, being the head of the Investigation Department in the Security Department, should have a lot of information on Anti-government Armed Forces and spies among them, some of which might help him.


    At the very least, with Qin Shuman''s many years of service in the secret service, he could tell her the whole story and she might be able to give him some good advice.


    So, while Qin Shuman was unconscious, Qiu Tu was already considering how to utilize her as his ace supporter.


    Now, seeing Qin Shuman "take the bait," Qiu Tu didn''t delay, promptly recounting the whole story of Vice President Tian''s case...


    And after listening to Qiu Tu''s narration, Qin Shuman indeed fell into deep thought. She knitted her brows and murmured,


    "Vice President Tian''s mistress is a United Front spy?"


    "She helped the United Front install eavesdropping devices in many prominent businessmen''s communicators?"


    "These businessmen, as soon as they transport goods out of the city, are ambushed by the United Front?"


    "The female spy confessed to the case without reservation, but claimed that her involvement with Vice President Tian was entirely accidental?"


    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and said seriously, "Qiu Tu, this case is a bit complicated."


    "The people involved are also sensitive. If possible, I''d suggest it''s best you don''t get involved with this case."


    Qiu Tu felt a surge in his heart upon hearing Qin Shuman''s advice.


    But now... it wasn''t about whether he wanted to get involved or not. The case had implicated him.


    Thinking this, he gave a wry smile and spread his hands, "I don''t want to, but I''m the main suspect."


    Qin Shuman looked at him with a puzzled expression, "You are the main suspect?"


    Qiu Tu nodded and said helplessly, "I didn''t get to finish earlier. There''s more to the case."


    "Last night, I was in charge of interrogating the female spy."


    "And just now, the female spy died in the Guard Room, likely silenced."


    "Yan Chen is furious and wants a thorough investigation. All of us who had contact with the female spy are listed as the main suspects."


    "What''s more troublesome is that last night, I used Cataclysmic treasures outside the interrogation room..."


    ----


    Thanks to the "KAWABUNGA" boss for the 100,000 reward! Congratulations to the boss on becoming the Alliance Hierarch of our book! Boss, you''re awesome!

 Chapter 63 Cataclysmic Treasure: Cursed Reproduction Agent (7k words, subscribe!)

    Upon saying this, Qiu Tu also looked helpless, "So... I really can''t clear my name even if I were to dive into the Yellow River."Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s expression couldn''t help but turn grave.


    She took a deep breath and said earnestly, "Don''t worry just yet. I will definitely help you."


    What Qiu Tu needed was precisely these words from Qin Shuman.


    He timely added, "My friend told me that this matter has a big impact, involving Vice President Tian and several members of the municipal committee."


    "Therefore, Yan Chen might resort to exceptional measures."


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu probed, "Do you know what exceptional measures he might use?"


    "Can these exceptional measures detect the traces of the Cataclysm Prop I used last night?"


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman pondered quietly for a while before slowly saying, "The procedure of the Investigation Bureau in investigating cases is generally fixed."


    "If I''m not guessing wrong, now that the female spy is dead, the first thing they will do is to have an experienced forensic doctor to examine and dissect the body to determine the cause of death."


    "And if the cause of death is identified by dissecting and examining the body, then they will determine the range of suspects according to the cause of death."


    "If the cause of death is not found through dissection and examination of the body, then the Investigation Bureau will proceed with the next step of Mystic Arts Inspection to see if there are any traces of Catastrophe Power on the female spy."


    "If they indeed find traces of Catastrophe Power on her, they are very likely to check everyone who has had contact with the deceased."


    "To see if these individuals exhibit traces of having used Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic treasures."


    "Of course, in addition to this, they might also report to their superiors, or request assistance from our Security Department for investigation, or even directly transfer the case to our Security Department, and so on."


    "These are all fairly typical procedures, and it really depends on what the Political Department decides."


    "But if, as your friend says, Yan Chen is preparing to use exceptional measures."


    "Then it''s very likely that he is planning to use brutal methods for a forceful investigation."


    "Inside the Investigation Bureau there is a type of banned drug called Cursed Reproduction Agent."


    "It is a Cataclysmic Potion of a not very high class but with powerful effects. It can muddle people''s thinking and spirit, causing them to relive what they have done in recent days and can be particularly used to reenact specific segments. It is often used in the interrogation of some special cases."


    "But this potion also has a significant drawback, which is that the side effects are very strong."


    "At the lightest, the user can suffer memory confusion, paralysis of half the body, and at the worst, direct death."


    "It is precisely because of such side effects that the Sanctuary has classified it as a Class C Forbidden Drug. Only a few departments authorized by the council can use this potion under special circumstances."


    "Any private use of this banned drug by anyone else would constitute an illegal act."


    After finishing Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s expression grew solemn as he asked, "So... if the forensic determination is that the female spy died from ordinary injuries."


    "Since I haven''t had any private contact with her, it''s less likely that I''m a suspect, and Yan Chen probably won''t investigate me."


    "But if the female spy died from Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysmic treasures, then it''s very likely my traces of using Cataclysmic treasures will be detected. I would become the prime suspect."


    "And if Yan Chen fails to find the murderer after a while or becomes crazed, he might use the Cursed Reproduction Agent on everyone who had contact, and then it''s quite likely I''d end up dead or crippled?"


    Qin Shuman nodded gravely.


    Silent, Qiu Tu suddenly understood the purpose behind Secretary Bai''s phone call.


    It seemed that Secretary Bai not only suspected that he might be the assassin covering his tracks but was also worried that even if he weren''t the killer, Yan Chen, in a frenzy, would indiscriminately use the Cataclysmic Potion endangering him as well.


    So... what should he do?


    Perhaps sensing the pressure in Qiu Tu''s heart, Qin Shuman gently sat in his arms, her voice soft and seductive as she said,


    "Chief Qiu~ actually... you have another choice."


    Qiu Tu looked down at her.


    Qin Shuman smiled irresistibly, "And that is to let our Security Department take over the entire case directly~"


    "With me here~ nobody can hurt you."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Looking into Qin Shuman''s eyes, Qiu Tu was briefly stunned, feeling inexplicably as though he was accepting charity?


    Chief, hungry...?


    Yet, this thought was quickly dismissed by him as soon as it flitted through his mind.


    Qin Shuman made it sound easy, and her tone was ambiguous as if she had taken advantage of him. But Qiu Tu was not deceived by her seductive gesture.


    The case of the female spy was both "related to cases involving the Anti-government Armed Forces" and a "spy case." Therefore, since the Security Department could take over the investigation, the Political Department could also conduct the investigation on its own.


    In such a situation, unless the Political Department took the initiative to ask, the Security Department was unlikely to actively intervene in the case - that would mean slapping the faces of the Political Department, Jia Shu, and Yan Chen.


    So, the only way the Security Department would want to take over this case is if Qin Shuman, without approval from above, barged into the Investigation Bureau, showed her true colors, and forcibly snatched the case away.


    In that event, Qin Shuman would not only have to endure Yan Chen''s wrath, but might also have to face the fury from the Security Department and the military.


    The reason why Qin Shuman used such an ambiguous tone when mentioning this method was actually just to make me preemptively assume that this matter would work in her favor...


    ''This woman....''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu, although somewhat touched, still patted her hand and said, "No need. Things haven''t reached that point."


    Qin Shuman was indeed deliberately misleading Qiu Tu''s thoughts, but now seeing that he wasn''t fooled, she ceased those little manipulations.


    She believed that Qiu Tu knew what he was doing, and she was willing to trust him, just as she would trust herself...


    And so, she quietly lay in Qiu Tu''s embrace, enjoying the rare moment of warmth....


    Thus, in the short span of an hour, the two went from passionate intensity upon entering the door to being heavily burdened with thoughts at their parting.


    In these chaotic times, everyone is struggling to survive, with romantic sentiments pressed deep into their hearts, yet evident in their eyes.


    As he was leaving, Qiu Tu told Qin Shuman about Yan Chen''s plan for him to become a double agent.


    Qin Shuman was not surprised, even playfully hooking her arm around Qiu Tu''s neck and asking him a charming question, "So, Chief Qiu, this double agent... are you on Director Yan''s side, or are you on my side?"


    Qiu Tu laughed and tapped her forehead, "I''m on my own side."


    Watching Qiu Tu slowly walk away, Qin Shuman gazed at his retreating figure and softly said, "Bad man...."


    After speaking, she turned back to her hotel room with a smile on her lips.


    In fact, not only was Qiu Tu faced with a mess, her situation was equally muddled: the issue of Master Qin Si''s arrangements, the problem of a mole being exposed, and the accountability from the authorities above all added to her stress....


    The bizarre event five days ago had changed too many people, too many things.


    Every time she thought about it, Qin Shuman still felt a lingering fear.


    Standing in front of the bed and looking at the body she had used for the past few days, Qin Shuman''s brows lightly furrowed.


    Though her soul had clearly returned to her own body, the soulless shell had yet to deteriorate.


    Qin Shuman reached out to touch it, finding the body warm and soft.


    She placed her hand on the left side of the chest and could even feel the heartbeat.


    If she didn''t know that "Qin Shuman" was already dead, she might have thought it was just a beauty sleeping quietly....


    Moreover, the fact that she returned to her body without "paying" any "price" made her find it incredible¡ªshe hadn''t even used the Cataclysm Prop she had prepared. This raised a daring thought in Qin Shuman''s mind... could she possess "Qin Shuman''s" body again?


    Would such possession be like before, where she could release it at any time, or would it be like these past few days, trapped within that body?


    And what secrets lay hidden within this "Qin Shuman" body and that "Qiu Tu" body?


    What on earth had happened five days ago?


    Qin Shuman felt as though new mysteries were cropping up before her....


    ....


    Leaving the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu drove home. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This meeting with Qin Shuman was very fruitful.


    Though he hadn''t found a solution to the crisis, it had... given Qiu Tu a clearer understanding of how events might unfold.


    This gave him reassurance, allowing him to adjust his strategy according to any shifts in the situation.


    Of course, the biggest reason he could refuse Qin Shuman''s help was that his Crisis Intuition hadn''t been triggered!


    This suggested that, at least for now, his life wasn''t in danger, and things were unlikely to deteriorate to the worst-case scenario.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu relaxed quite a bit.


    But in his relaxation, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a bit chagrined: he''d lost out tonight!


    He''d shared a bed with two "Qin Shumans", and yet he hadn''t made a move on either!


    Indeed, tonight''s "hidden benefit" had been wasted!


    Feeling this annoyance, he arrived back at Old Alley Street and parked beside the dirty, disorderly roadside. Qiu Tu turned off the car and was just about to get out when suddenly, "tap tap tap..." his car window was softly knocked on.


    He looked up in surprise and saw Liu Fuping, the girl who had gone missing for a day, standing outside his car window....

 Chapter 64 Astonishing Loyalty (7k Subscriptions Please!)

    Seeing Liu Fuping outside the car window, Qiu Tu raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised.After all, it was already 12 o''clock at night.


    In these troubled times, the night was very dangerous, and without a car, a beautiful woman traveling alone deep into the night was not a simple matter.


    So, unless there was a special circumstance, Liu Fuping would not take the risk of coming out to meet him.


    And thinking of special circumstances... Qiu Tu''s heart suddenly stirred: Could it be... she also knew about the female spy''s death?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu smiled at Liu Fuping, then opened the car door and got out.


    Liu Fuping was wearing a green knitted sweater tonight. The sweater was loose, with a large, slightly skewed neckline, allowing one to see the black strap of her lingerie on her fair left shoulder, and if one looked down, there was a cleavage that could bury a person.


    Liu Fuping noticed something was off with Qiu Tu''s gaze, looked down at herself, and made no adjustments. Instead, she even clasped her hands under her chest, making herself even more prominent.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. Look, this is the advantage of a married woman, she always cooperates tacitly with you...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu leaned against the car, lit a cigarette, and teased nonchalantly, "Sister Liu, are you coming to see me so late because you can''t sleep alone?"


    "Hohoho~" Liu Fuping laughed, shaking her whole body, creating waves of motion.


    After laughing, she put her hand on Qiu Tu''s arm, and with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, she said, "Is that what you''re coveting, Chief?"


    But Qiu Tu''s smile remained as he replied, "Isn''t it Sister Liu who has always been coveting me?"


    The two of them looked at each other, their smiles growing brighter, a sense of ambiguity as if "you know my unscrupulous intentions, I understand your feigned modesty."


    And just as the atmosphere was getting more and more romantic,


    suddenly, a horrific scream of "Ah!" echoed between the densely packed buildings on Old Alley Street.


    Followed by a "thud!" as something like wet mud slapped against the wall.


    Liu Fuping was startled, locking her neck to look in that direction.


    Qiu Tu casually flicked the cigarette ash, "It''s nothing, probably just some unfortunate soul who couldn''t handle the pressure and jumped from a building."


    Liu Fuping immediately breathed a sigh of relief.


    In this chaotic world, human life was cheap, and nobody cared, except... the group of urban sanitation workers that City Hall had just recruited.


    However, because of that interruption, the romantic atmosphere was broken. Liu Fuping finally started talking about serious matters.


    She gathered her hair and moved closer to Qiu Tu, whispering, "Chief. I heard some news. Yin Caimei is dead."


    The name was somewhat unfamiliar, and Qiu Tu almost didn''t react in time, "Who?"


    Liu Fuping said, "The female spy we interrogated last night."


    Qiu Tu "Oh~" in understanding. It matched his own intelligence.


    Liu Fuping earnestly observed Qiu Tu''s expression, noting that he didn''t seem surprised, and her expression became complicated.


    She continued to probe, "Chief, her identity is quite special, and this case involves a wide range of issues."


    "I''m worried that the minister will be furious when this gets out, and all of us involved in the interrogation won''t be able to escape the consequences; we may be implicated."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, laughed, flicked away the cigarette butt, and reassured her, "Don''t worry, the minister won''t."


    Liu Fuping didn''t understand where Qiu Tu''s confidence came from and was taken aback for a moment.


    Then, the next second, she heard Qiu Tu say, "Because the one who''s furious is the Bureau Chief. He''s already gotten involved in this matter."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s body shivered noticeably, and she appeared astonished, "The Bureau Chief got involved?"


    Qiu Tu put his arm around her and pulled her into his embrace, the married woman''s body soft and comfortable to hold. Then he replied casually, "Yes."


    "Isn''t it very normal for the Bureau Chief to get involved in such a sensitive issue?"


    After finishing, Qiu Tu gazed at her, probed with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, "Sister Liu, you''re not the murderer, what are you nervous about?"


    Liu Fuping swallowed and said softly, "Chief, you don''t know the methods of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Once the Bureau Chief gets involved, the whole affair will become incredibly complicated."


    Pausing, she continued, "The Bureau Chief getting involved means he doesn''t trust the Political Department. And this will provoke the anger of the minister."


    "And the minister... he''s a pervert!"


    "His interrogations never aim to extract information but to take pleasure in torture."


    "As long as someone is suspected, whether they are the real criminal or not, they won''t come out alive from his hands."


    "Our Interrogation Section was cultivated by him personally, so we are too familiar with his methods."


    "With the gravity of the situation and the Bureau Chief''s involvement, it''s very likely he will just detain us internal staff first and torture us, to vent his rage and force confessions."


    By the end, her complexion was pale, her voice trembling slightly, "I haven''t even learned the basics from him, and few prisoners can survive. There''s even less chance for us."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a second, then smoothly asked, "So, you think we should find the murderer ahead of time?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu finally got to the content she was most interested in, Liu Fuping nodded eagerly.


    She spoke softly, "We must find the murderer in advance, to clear ourselves of suspicion. Only by doing so can we avoid being implicated."


    Hearing the words of the beautiful young woman in his embrace, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows twitched slightly, and he watched her quietly, his gaze somewhat inexplicable.


    The beautiful young woman felt a strange look from him, then touched her own face, puzzled, she inquired, "Chief, what''s wrong?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and glanced once again at Liu Fuping''s astonishing loyalty.


    [Liu Fuping, Loyalty: 13]


    Then, smiling, he said, "It''s nothing. I just thought Sister Liu looked especially beautiful tonight, and I got lost in thought for a moment."


    Although he complimented her with his mouth, Qiu Tu''s mind was rapidly analyzing the matter of Liu Fuping''s loyalty.


    Just like the experience he had confirmed in the Interrogation Section before: without the influence of personal interests, most subordinates should have a loyalty above 30 towards him.


    This wasn''t due to Qiu Tu''s personal influence, but rather the natural oppression from superiors to subordinates under the strict system of the violent organization.


    After all, if Qiu Tu hadn''t made any mistakes, opposing him would be tantamount to opposing the entire violent organization.


    And yet, Liu Fuping had a loyalty towards Qiu Tu that didn''t even reach the basic 30 points.


    This could only mean three possibilities.


    One, Qiu Tu''s teasing in the past two days made her dislike him, reducing her loyalty.


    Two, she was part of a faction within the Investigation Bureau, and that faction was hostile or disliked Qiu Tu.


    Three, she... was a spy. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All three scenarios could lead to her loyalty dropping below "30," the minimum threshold, causing her to disobey Qiu Tu''s orders overtly and covertly.


    Especially the third possibility.


    If she were really a spy, then the likelihood of her being the murderer also greatly increased.


    But... what Qiu Tu couldn''t understand was: if she really was the murderer, why would she come to see him?


    Was she planning to frame him? Was it a case of a thief crying "Stop thief"? Or did she intend to deflect the blame elsewhere?


    ''Things are getting interesting...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also probed, "Sister Liu, who do you think the murderer is?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment before whispering, "I think it might be Wang Xi."


    Qiu Tu went "Oh?" and asked with interest, "Why?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "He''s a Pharmacist, responsible for dispensing interrogation potions."


    "So, he could easily add some lethal drugs to the normal interrogation potion without anyone noticing."


    Qiu Tu went "Oh," as if in deep thought.


    After a moment, as if something suddenly occurred to him, he looked sharply at Liu Fuping, then feigned surprise and said, "In that case, Sister Liu, you''re also quite suspicious."


    "After all, you were the interrogator for that female spy. During the interrogation, you too could have poisoned her without anyone noticing."


    "For example, hiding poison in the crevice of your nails, then applying it to her wounds during execution."


    Liu Fuping wasn''t frightened by Qiu Tu; her face fell as she admitted, "It''s precisely because I know I''m one of the most suspected that I''m so anxious."


    "If I were like you, Chief, having never made contact with that prisoner, I would be sleeping without worries."


    Qiu Tu looked earnestly at Liu Fuping''s expression, finding no faults...


    So he continued to probe, "Then, Sister Liu, what brings you to me tonight?"


    "I should be one of the most suspected as well, right?"


    Liu Fuping''s response to Qiu Tu''s relentless questions showed some discomfort as she said, "I... I''m just a little panicked inside. So I wanted to consult with you, Chief, to see if we could find other clues."


    ''That''s a lie.''


    Qiu Tu sensed something off.


    Liu Fuping''s gaze clearly shifted towards the bottom right as she spoke.


    But interestingly enough, Liu Fuping''s gaze snapped back immediately after shifting to the right.


    A hint of amusement flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    ''Interesting...''


    If the gaze had just darted to the bottom right, it would have indicated Liu Fuping was lying, but nothing more could be proven.


    However, this retraction indicated that she was likely trained professionally, aware of the micro-expressions when lying, and was trying to control them. Perhaps it was lack of skill, or a fluctuation in emotion, that led to the slip.


    ''So... is the beautiful young woman in front of me a spy?''


    ''Does the Political Department actually have a spy in its midst? And is it her?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tightened his hold around Liu Fuping''s arm, pulling her closer into his embrace.


    Liu Fuping thought Qiu Tu had some ulterior motives at first, so she initially struggled politely, but soon gave up.


    Then, the next second, she felt the barrel of a gun pressed against her waist.


    With one arm, Qiu Tu encircled Liu Fuping tightly in his embrace and with the other hand, he pointed the gun at her.


    Then he laid his head on Liu Fuping''s shoulder and asked in a whisper close to her ear, "Sister Liu, have you ever considered that you might be the person I suspect the most?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping froze completely...

 Chapter 65 Launching the Loyalty Game (7k Subscriptions Please!)

    ```Seeing this, Qiu Tu became even more certain in his heart. He smiled and asked, "What''s the matter? Is there a problem with my suspicion?"


    In just that one second, Liu Fuping also recovered.


    She obviously wanted to continue pretending, so she twisted in Qiu Tu''s arms and gently pounded his shoulder, coquettishly saying, "Commander, stop teasing~ I''m discussing serious matters with you~"


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu "haha" laughed twice, then slid his hand holding the gun up from her slender waist, over the profound hollow, her fair neck, all the way to her chin.


    With the muzzle of the gun, he lifted Liu Fuping''s chin and looked into her beautiful eyes, speaking softly,


    "Sister Liu, I''m not messing around either."


    "You might have misunderstood me due to my image all this time. Thinking I''m just a rogue who got into the Interrogation Section through connections."


    "But actually... I do have some skills of my own."


    "Not many, unfortunately... but your flaw was too big."


    After he finished speaking, Qiu Tu turned off the safety with one hand and asked the final question, "Tell me, Sister Liu, who are you working for? Why did you come to see me tonight?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu was not joking but actually intending to take action against her, Liu Fuping immediately struggled to free herself from Qiu Tu''s restraint.


    The result was that she didn''t realize until she struggled that Qiu Tu''s body was as solid as steel, locking her firmly in place, unable to move at all.


    Her face didn''t show it, but her body secretly exerted more strength.


    But what was more frightening was that no matter how much strength she used, Qiu Tu seemed to feel nothing and bore it all.


    Liu Fuping was stunned. Although she was not skilled in strength, she was not someone who could be easily restrained by an ordinary man.


    Now, it felt not like she was being held in a man''s arms but was bitten by a great beast!


    The power was so strong it made her despair!


    At this moment, feeling her struggle, Qiu Tu laughed as well, "Sister Liu not pretending anymore?"


    Liu Fuping, seeing that she couldn''t get away from Qiu Tu, could only give up struggling.


    But even so, her "professionalism" still made her force a smile and said defiantly, "Commander, I really don''t know what you''re talking about, please let me go...."


    Originally, Liu Fuping had no hope when she said this.


    After all... Qiu Tu''s sudden turnaround tonight had proven her misjudgment about Qiu Tu: the person in front of her was not an ignorant rogue at all, but a hunter lurking in the shadows!


    Who knew, just when she was in despair, Qiu Tu actually let her go....


    This move threw Liu Fuping off.


    She stood there, her beautiful eyes dazed as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu, while putting away the gun, asked with a smile, "What''s the matter? Sister Liu, do you miss my embrace?"


    Liu Fuping realized her own lapse. She reached up to adjust her hair, giving Qiu Tu a complex look, and couldn''t help but ask, "Why?"


    Qiu Tu responded casually while leaning on the car,


    "If I''ve seen through your identity, does it matter whether you admit it or not?"


    "We''re all in the same boat, there''s no need to push things to the extreme. Maybe in the future, I''ll fall into your hands and be begging you for mercy." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping silently stared at him.


    After a long moment, she said softly, "I''m not the murderer. I came to you to actually see if you were the murderer."


    "When I told you about the female spy''s death, you didn''t show any surprise, I thought you might really be the murderer."


    "Later, I realized your calmness probably meant you already knew the news."


    "And since you weren''t flustered by my probing, it''s highly likely you''re not the killer."


    "So, for the time being, I''ve excluded you from the list of suspects."


    When she finished, she stepped backward out of Qiu Tu''s attack range.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu really didn''t intend to harm her, she slowly turned around, ready to leave.


    But as she took her first step, she immediately drew it back.


    With her back to Qiu Tu, she said softly, "I can''t let my identity be exposed, so I must find the murderer in advance to avoid this matter affecting me."


    "Sorry about tonight...."


    After that, she didn''t linger, striding away from Old Alley Street.


    Watching the beautiful young woman leaving, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face grew wider.


    Sometimes, controlling a person doesn''t mean you have to force them relentlessly; a balance of give and take can often achieve the desired result more effectively.


    Look, by simply sparing Liu Fuping for a moment, not only did he immediately gain an ally for the investigation, but he also got a lovely scapegoat...


    The case hadn''t blown up yet, and even if he arrested her, it would only involve his own efforts.


    Better to give her freedom first, let her do some investigating and see if there''s any unexpected gain.


    Even if she doesn''t root out the murderer, he could reveal her identity when the case blows up. By then, she would instantly become a perfect shield, buying a few more days.


    If she runs, she''s the criminal.


    If she doesn''t run, she''s the spare tire scapegoat.


    And once the case is over, well... Madam, you certainly don''t want those above you to find out about your spy identity, do you?


    Qiu Tu felt that no matter how things developed, he could easily maximize her value.


    ''This isn''t a bad move.''


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this.


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +8]


    Qiu Tu paused, then laughed.


    Heh... it''s not just not bad, it''s an overwhelming win....


    ```

 Chapter 65 Launching the Loyalty Game (7k Subscriptions Please!)_2

    .....After a day of experimentation, Qiu Tu had gained a rough understanding of how Loyalty could be increased or decreased.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, when Loyalty was relatively low, it could approximate Favorability.


    Simply put, the more subordinates liked their superior, the more obedient they would be.


    At this time, subordinates obeyed their superiors solely because of the latter''s higher position.


    But once Loyalty reached above 60, it was no longer just about favorability, but a kind of Trust Level.


    The more subordinates trusted you, the more they listened to you.


    At this time, subordinates no longer followed orders simply because of position, but out of personal trust: trust that he could lead them to victory, that he could ensure their safety, that he could help them get promoted and wealthy, that his commands were always correct....


    And when Loyalty exceeded 80, it was completely different. This was now about the superior''s unique charm and the influence of their daily interactions.


    At that point, subordinates could be said to be the superior''s private soldiers, obeying only their commander''s orders....


    The higher the level of Loyalty, the more difficult it was to increase.


    As for the method of increasing it, it was quite simple - it was nothing other than the timeless, universal methods of winning people over: helping subordinates out of difficulties, promising them benefits, providing them with interests....


    The more moved they were, the more they believed that following you led to a bright future, the more Loyalty would increase.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but want to laugh: It seems like his action of sparing Liu Fuping earlier had really moved her....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took one more long look in the direction Liu Fuping had left, then finally headed home....


    Arriving at the foot of his apartment, Qiu Tu looked up and saw that the lights were still on in his home.


    Seeing that dim, warm light, Qiu Tu felt a sudden sense of relief: It seemed Shen Lingshuang had indeed not left... all his careful planning had not been wasted.


    With that thought, he slowly ascended the stairs.


    Unlocking the front door, the first thing Qiu Tu saw was Shen Lingshuang asleep on the sofa.


    The girl must have been truly exhausted. She lay there, hands clasped and resting beside her face, deeply asleep.


    Qiu Tu slowed his pace, not wanting to disturb this peaceful scene.


    After silently watching the girl for a moment, Qiu Tu quietly shut the door behind him and walked over to her, gently picking her up around the waist.


    Feeling someone lifting her, the girl immediately started struggling. At this moment, Qiu Tu softly said, "It''s me. Go back to sleep."


    Perhaps there was something genuinely comforting about Qiu Tu''s voice, because upon hearing him, the girl actually fell asleep again in his arms....


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled, then carried the girl into the house. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The inside and outside of the house were cleaned spotlessly by the girl, even the bed sheets were changed, making her look like a hardworking and dutiful country maid.


    Qiu Tu gently placed her on the bed, and then went to wash up in the small bathroom.


    After freshening up, Qiu Tu turned off the light, took off his overcoat, and lay down beside the girl.


    With one arm around the girl and the other behind his head, Qiu Tu''s mind was free of any distractions.


    He lay with his eyes open, looking at the ceiling, quietly contemplating the murderer who had killed the female spy.


    Liu Fuping''s unexpected visit tonight, although revealing her mole identity, had also led Qiu Tu to "basically" exclude her from suspicion.


    Liu Fuping''s behavior was entirely in line with how a mole would act when fearing "collateral damage" or "stray hits."


    Hmm... Qiu Tu, who also harbored secrets and feared ''stray hits'', could very well understand that state.


    Excluding Liu Fuping, there were only four other people with substantial suspicion: two agents from the operations team, the recorder Song Qing, and the Pharmacist Wang Xi.


    Although Liu Fuping came with ulterior motives, her analysis was not wrong; among the other three, Wang Xi indeed had a significantly higher level of suspicion.


    ''So, is there any way to test Wang Xi?'' Qiu Tu pondered.


    As he thought, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered the new Golden Finger [Loyalty Game] he had acquired.


    The Loyalty Game had two effects. In addition to passively indicating changes in Loyalty, there was also an active effect: initiating the Loyalty Game.


    This "[Start Loyalty Game]" requires a threshold of loyalty points.


    Among Qiu Tu''s subordinates at the Investigation Bureau, not a single one could initiate the game.


    It wasn''t until he returned home tonight and saw Ah-Tai, Eagle, and a few others that he realized the game could be started.


    At that time, he briefly glanced over the game''s introduction, and it vaguely seemed to be a "[combat game]," where winning could yield information, loyalty points, and other rewards?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu silently invoked in his heart, "[Start Loyalty Game]."


    Indeed, the next second, a row of prompts appeared before him.


    [Loyalty Game initiation threshold: 60, 90.]


    [First game initiators include: Ah-Tai, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Monkey....., Shen Lingshuang.]


    [Second game initiators include: Ah-Tai, Eagle.]


    Qiu Tu didn''t aim too high and chose the first game first.


    Immediately, the introduction for the first game popped up.


    [As a boss, you can designate a subordinate with a loyalty above 60 to "attack" another subordinate every night.]


    [The two will engage in fierce combat in a dreamscape. If the attacker wins, you will receive memory fragments, intelligence, and loyalty points as rewards related to the attacked subordinate.]


    [If the attacked subordinate has special talents, there is also a chance to obtain related Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysm Props, etc....]


    After reading the game introduction, Qiu Tu was instantly invigorated!


    This game is strong!


    Not only can you get loyalty points, but also memory fragments and intelligence?


    That alone would have sufficed. But if any of his subordinates turned out to be Cataclysmics, who knows, he might get some precious Cataclysmic Materials and Cataclysmic treasures. He could rapidly enhance his strength.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t delay any further and tried to initiate the first game.


    The selection of participants for the game was unsurprising.


    On his side was Ah-Tai, a burly man over one meter ninety, covered in sinewy muscle.


    The enemy, of course, was the subordinate Qiu Tu intended to investigate tonight: Wang Xi.


    Once the game participants were selected, the next second, a tiny screen popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    On the screen, Ah-Tai''s pixel character was beating up on Wang Xi''s pixel character with gusto.


    As for why it was possible to tell them apart...


    Well, aside from the pixel characters bearing an uncanny resemblance to their respective appearance features, it was also because... Ah-Tai held a tiny hammer in his hand, while Wang Xi was embracing a medical injector nearly his own height....


    So, in front of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai''s pixel character was "ding ding dang dang" hammering away at Wang Xi''s pixel character, while Wang Xi''s pixel character, getting hammered, occasionally jabbed Ah-Tai with the massive injector.


    At first, Qiu Tu watched the pixel characters'' battle with great interest, but it didn''t take long for him to find... that the scene was almost in a constant loop, without any change.


    Eventually, he grew tired of watching it. He simply turned off the game and went to sleep, cuddling Shen Lingshuang, the soft girl.


    However, what he didn''t know was that no sooner had he fallen asleep than Ah-Tai''s pixel character let out a roar, his tiny hammer struck 18 times on Wang Xi''s head and burst forth with an item shaped like an envelope.


    And Wang Xi''s pixel character not only looked bruised and battered, but also had a prompt above his head that read, "[Loyalty +3]..."


    ...


    The azure moon hung high above the pitch-black firmament, casting a deep and serene glow.


    In its light, the myriad crumbling buildings of Xinjie City cast dancing shadows that mingled with the darkness below, forming an eerie and mysterious tapestry.


    And so, the night passed without an incident.


    Early next morning, Qiu Tu was awakened by a scream...


    ----

 Chapter 66 Harvest - Memory Fragment (4k words)

    Hearing the scream that pierced the entire room, Qiu Tu groggily woke up.He slowly opened his eyes and looked over at Shen Lingshuang. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he saw Shen Lingshuang hugging the blanket, shrinking at the edge of the bed, staring at him in horror.


    Qiu Tu yawned and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Shen Lingshuang glared at Qiu Tu, "How did you end up in bed with me?"


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then innocently pointed around his cramped home, "Where else? There''s only one bed here, and the sofa is so small, I can''t sleep on the floor, can I?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang stared blankly for a moment, then snorted and turned her head aside, "Well, you brought this on yourself, don''t expect me to take responsibility for you!"


    After saying that, she pulled her pants and walked away.


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Now it was Qiu Tu''s turn to be stunned.


    Wait a minute, did he get up wrong? Why didn''t things feel like how he imagined?


    Thinking along these lines, he paused and then lifted the blanket to check; his clothes were intact with no signs of being tampered with.


    He looked up again at Shen Lingshuang, who was heading to the living room. The girl''s ears were a bit red, and her complexion seemed unnatural.


    Qiu Tu... understood.


    She really is a tsundere, isn''t she? Her mouth is definitely tough.


    But... maybe I should tell her that the era of being a tsundere has passed?


    ...


    After silently mocking the situation for a while in his mind, Qiu Tu lay back in bed and realized he couldn''t fall asleep again.


    Instead of trying to get some more sleep, he decided to check his gains from the game last night.


    He called up the panel of the "Loyalty Game" and the first thing that caught Qiu Tu''s eye was a "Game Over" screen.


    In the screen, Ah-Tai''s pixel figure was holding a tiny hammer, with hands on his hips, laughing uproariously towards the sky. Meanwhile, Wang Xi''s pixel figure sat on the ground with a swollen nose and bruised face, crying while clutching his head.


    Along with this image, a package gleaming with golden light appeared in the middle of the screen.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew last night''s game was likely won by Ah-Tai, and that package must be the reward he had earned.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu didn''t delay and mentally clicked on the package.


    The next second, several prompts appeared before him.


    [Victory in Loyalty Game, reward earned.]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +5]


    [Wang Xi Memory Fragment (Short) +1]


    After reading the game prompts, Qiu Tu''s eyes brightened slightly, feeling the rewards were quite good.


    Not only had he gained some loyalty, but he also obtained a memory fragment.


    If this memory fragment showed the process of Wang Xi''s murder, then Qiu Tu felt he could close the case now.


    Thinking this, he tried clicking on the [Memory Fragment] to see what was inside.


    As he clicked, the next second, Qiu Tu felt a darkness before his eyes, and then he seemed to appear in a small room.


    In the room was a stranger, dressed in a black suit, with bright red-dyed hair, wearing a clown mask.


    The stranger was holding a shotgun, cleaning it.


    After cleaning it, he tossed the shotgun to "Qiu Tu," then picked up another shotgun, grinned at "Qiu Tu" and said,


    "Tomorrow, we''ll rob the Pharmacy. The plan is...you take care of the clerks and customers inside."


    "I''ll handle the security guard and the responding agents."


    The scene went black again after this. When Qiu Tu came back to his senses, he found himself back in bed.


    Qiu Tu sat on the bed, stunned for a while, then in his mind a myriad of expletives stampeded!


    Damn! The task force I''m in really is full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers!


    Out of four well-known members, one is a double-dealer, one a spy, and another... a hardcore criminal?!


    Qiu Tu recalled the content that appeared in the scene just now, then quickly searched his original memory.


    Soon, he found relevant information.


    Half a month ago, an official Pharmacy on Xiafang Street had been robbed.


    The robbers not only stole hundreds of Silver Yuan worth of medicines and herbs but also brutally killed 2 security guards, 3 clerks, 3 customers, as well as 6 temporary agents and 2 formal agents from the Investigation Bureau, totaling 16 people...


    Because the incident was so serious, the Investigation Bureau received a severe reprimand from the Municipal Committee.


    The Public Security Bureau, where Qin Zhengguang worked, also faced serious disciplinary action within the Investigation Bureau and was demanded to solve the case within a limited time.


    But...in an era without surveillance cameras and DNA testing technology, cracking the case wasn''t so easy.


    Moreover, after the robbers killed all the staff and security personnel, they left, leading to a large crowd of onlookers rushing into the store to loot, nearly obliterating all evidence from the scene.


    Therefore, to this day, the case remained unsolved.


    To his surprise... this major case was actually pulled by Wang Xi, the demure and docile Pharmacist?


    With this realization, Qiu Tu was somewhat astonished.


    Indeed, you never know what your colleagues will do after work.


    After silently mocking the situation for a while in his mind, Qiu Tu also quickly analyzed the information revealed by the memory fragment.


    First, it confirmed the contrast in Wang Xi''s identity: a hardcore criminal.


    This identity proved that Wang Xi wasn''t as plain and ordinary as he appeared, but rather someone on the fringes of darkness.


    Secondly, Wang Xi seemed to belong to a small group or organization.


    From the images in the memory, he was taking orders from a strange man wearing a clown mask, implying he wasn''t the leader of that small group or organization.

 Chapter 66 Harvest - Memory Fragment (4k words)_2

    Moreover, this small group clearly isn''t strong. If they were strong enough, they wouldn''t have robbed a pharmacy.In the end, it''s very likely that the main source of this small group''s funding comes from "prohibited drugs." And these "prohibited drugs" were probably produced by Wang Xi after he finished work.


    After all, there are so many other stores that are equally less dangerous and yet more profitable, which they didn''t rob, instead choosing the pharmacy. Obviously, they have a way to make these drugs more valuable.


    That is, by processing the drugs a second time, turning them into "prohibited drugs" for resale.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s gaze couldn''t help but become more profound: The main direction of illegal drugs actually points to the anti-government armed forces.


    Could it be that Wang Xi has made contact with organizations like the United Front and other anti-government armed forces because of this? And did he kill that female spy for the money?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt that maybe today he could really test Wang Xi¡ªif he was still around, that is....


    After making this decision, as Qiu Tu sat on the bed, he didn''t feel too happy.


    For some reason, he vaguely felt that something about this matter was not quite right.


    He silently analyzed the several suspects in the case:


    Liu Fuping doesn''t need mentioning; he met them last night and has basically ruled out the suspicion.


    Next was Song Qing. This girl, whom Qiu Tu had been in contact with for two days, seemed like a girl who lacked a bit of commonsense, came from a good background, and had a distinct spring in her step that was rare in times of chaos. She also didn''t quite fit the profile of a murderer.


    As for Wang Xi, there was indeed some suspicion. Qiu Tu was indeed planning to test him.


    But.... Upon further thought, the possibility of the United Front hiring killers didn''t seem very high.


    After all, how would the United Front know that Wang Xi was the pharmacist interrogating that female spy?


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, the interrogation last night seemed to be a last-minute arrangement by Jia Shu to trap him, and no one could have known in advance.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu found the matter more interesting.


    If none of these three were the killer, could the murderer be one of the two service personnel? Or perhaps another officer who had access to the female spy?


    Somewhat inexplicably, Qiu Tu felt there was a larger conspiracy behind this matter....


    ....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu quietly analyzed the case,


    In the military, within a secretive office,


    Qin Shuman, dressed in a green military uniform, stood straight in front of a desk with her eyes level, not looking anywhere but straight ahead.


    Behind the desk sat a tall man, his forehead full and broad, his face angular, expression somewhat bland, but his eyes radiated a ruthless and merciless gaze.


    He sat behind the desk, holding a pen, while looking at the report in front of him, clicking his tongue twice in disapproval. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he looked up at Qin Shuman with a somewhat cold smile, "Rain Butterfly, looking at your case report, I can''t even bring myself to write my signature."


    "For the sake of Old Fourth Qin, you lost a key informant we had placed close to Yan Chen."


    "And to top it off, in order to successfully escort Old Fourth Qin to safety, you had the Investigation Department clean up the mess, directly exposing our Security Department to Yan Chen."


    "In just one day!"


    "Just a single day, and our insiders in the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau have been pretty much completely uprooted!"


    As he spoke, the man tossed the report into Qin Shuman''s face, "With such a failure, you still have the nerve to ask for my signature!?"


    The fluttering papers grazed Qin Shuman''s delicate face, but she continued to stare straight ahead, her expression and demeanor unchanged, allowing the cold report to slap against her face and fall to the ground....


    Seeing this, the man calmed down slightly. He coldly watched Qin Shuman and issued an ultimatum, "I don''t care how you do it, within a week, I want you to rebuild our connection in the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau! Restore our critical control over the Bureau''s key intelligence!"


    "In a big case like the murder of Vice President Tian''s mistress, we didn''t have any inside information!"


    "As of now, we''re totally in the dark about how this case is progressing and what has happened!"


    "This is a gross dereliction of duty on your part as the head of the Investigation Department!"


    By the end, the man''s voice softened, but the coldness within it was undiminished, "If you can''t do it, then prepare to face a military court...."


    "Yes!" Qin Shuman snapped to attention and saluted sharply!


    Seeing Qin Shuman accept the order, the man''s expression eased somewhat.


    He grunted deeply, then continued, "And the Qin Family matter."


    "Since you''ve paid such a high price to bring the person back, don''t let him go easily."


    "The Qin Family, starting from the previous generation, has been plotting their moves in the Sanctuary ahead of time. They not only got to know Yan Chen and Jiang Shigang (Commissioner Jiang) in advance but also continued to expand their influence in both political and business spheres."


    "As a result, they are now entangled with the United Front, which is obviously a problem!"


    "So, keep investigating! Get to the bottom of this!"


    "I want to see what is really hidden in the murky waters of the Qin Family!"


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Investigation Bureau. The dimly lit office of the Bureau Chief.


    Yan Chen sat comfortably behind a large desk, seemingly content, without any of the rage.... mentioned by Secretary Bai.


    He leaned back in his chair, struck a match, and lit the cigarette in his mouth. As he gently shook out the flame on the match, he asked in a low voice, "How is the progress?"


    Upon hearing his question, the person standing in front of him smiled brilliantly¡ªit was none other than Jia Shu.


    He adjusted the gold-framed glasses on his nose and said with a smile, "Bureau Chief, the progress is very smooth."


    He continued, "Taking advantage of the opportunity provided by the Security Department, we took the chance to pull out six moles that they had planted around us."


    "The Security Department made the first move, so by acting this way, no one can find fault with us."


    "After removing those few moles, I used the death of Vice President Tian''s lover to release some trial information outward, successfully locking down a group of suspected spies."


    "After the act we put on last night, I''ve recorded all the individuals who showed unusual activities and am now meticulously comparing them."


    "However, there are a few people that I really did not expect...."


    Upon hearing his words, Yan Chen voiced an "Oh?" and lifted his head to ask, "Who?"


    A trace of cold light flickered in the eyes behind Jia Shu''s glasses as he said with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, "For instance.... Secretary Bai."


    "After learning the news, he actually made a call to Qiu Tu right away."


    "I am very curious about what exactly he said to Qiu Tu in that ten-second call."


    "And then there''s a subordinate from our Political Department whom I had high hopes for."


    "I didn''t expect she would receive the information too and, in her haste, went to meet with a few relevant persons, like.... Qiu Tu."


    Listening to Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen took drags from his cigarette and asked with interest, "What about Qiu Tu?"


    Upon hearing this, the smile faded significantly from Jia Shu''s face, and he said thoughtfully, "Qiu Tu really surprised me."


    "Last night he went to the Milan Grand Hotel. He must have gone to meet with the Security Department as we arranged."


    "During the meet, he received a call from Secretary Bai. Afterward, there were no abnormal actions."


    "Then, on his way home, he encountered that subordinate of mine, and the two of them talked briefly, tangled for a moment, and then the matter ended."


    "Overall, he seemed very normal...."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly upon hearing this.


    Then he gently tapped his fingers on the armrests of his chair and said softly,


    "In order to quickly and comprehensively take control of Xinjie City''s order, in just one year, our Bureau expanded from a few dozen core personnel to over ten thousand."


    "During this process, our control over personnel wasn''t so strict."


    "We''ve been infiltrated by too many informants and moles from various forces."


    "Now that Xinjie City''s order is initially established, we finally have the time to screen the personnel within the Bureau."


    "Who is truly loyal to us and usable, who is problematic and needs to be removed; we must distinguish carefully...."


    "This is a rare opportunity. We must grasp it well."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly, "Yes."


    After discussing this matter, Yan Chen added, "Regarding the death of Vice President Tian''s lover, what is your take on it?"


    ----


    Today, I was organizing the outline for the latter part of the story, so I only updated one chapter of 4000 words for now. It should return to 7000 words tomorrow. Don''t forget to keep up with the reading~

 Chapter 67 Yan Chen is Satisfied +9 (7k for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Yan Chen''s inquiry, Jia Shu obviously hesitated for a moment.He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on the bridge of his nose, then said somewhat ambiguously,


    "Bureau Chief, I think... how that woman died isn''t important. What matters is what her death will bring us."


    As he said this, he paused before adding, "For example, her death could put many people at ease."


    "Despite the Municipal Committee''s harsh criticism of our Investigation Bureau, who knows how many members had a good night''s sleep last night."


    "For our Investigation Bureau, and for you, this is not necessarily a bad thing."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen fell into deep thought.


    After quietly pondering for a while, Yan Chen looked up at Jia Shu, his expression half-smiling, "It seems you have quite a few other thoughts about this case?"


    Jia Shu smiled and replied, "Bureau Chief, recent cases have shown me how important a good information surveillance system and a city-wide monitoring network are."


    "And... that is something only Vice President Tian''s side can accomplish."


    Yan Chen once again fell into silence, then tapped his fingers lightly on the armrest of his chair before softly saying, "You make the decision on this matter."


    "But we need to close the case. Don''t let it become an unsolved mystery."


    Jia Shu hurriedly bowed slightly with a radiant smile, "Rest assured, Bureau Chief, I''ll handle it."


    After finishing this topic, Jia Shu thought today''s conversation was over. He straightened his back, ready to take his leave.


    But just then, Yan Chen suddenly spoke again.


    He slowly asked, "By the way, the team of Political Department Investigators who were sent to the Qin Family the other day, are they still being held?"


    Possibly not expecting Yan Chen to bring this up suddenly, Jia Shu was taken aback. Then he nodded, "Yes."


    "The team from the Special Service Department has been demoted one rank for their poor performance and sent back to the Special Service Department for retraining." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "As for the team from the Political Department, I thought it''d be good for them to learn a lesson, so they''ve been kept locked up in the detention room awaiting punishment."


    At this, Yan Chen hummed in acknowledgment before saying, "I think that since Qiu Tu is no longer a suspect, we should still cultivate his talents."


    "He was in charge of that operation and is now the Deputy Head of the Interrogation Section. Let him be responsible for the review and punishment of this team."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Shu was stunned for a second, then looked at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen''s gaze was as still as an ancient well, as if it were just another ordinary arrangement.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu''s face also immediately displayed a brilliant smile, "Understood, Bureau Chief."


    A slight smile appeared on Yan Chen''s face as he then picked up the teacup from the table and took a sip.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu also wisely retreated to the office door, then turned and left...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, who was eating soup dumplings with Shen Lingshuang, suddenly saw two prompts flash before his eyes.


    [Yan Chen Suspicion -4, Satisfaction +9]


    [Jia Shu Suspicion -0, Satisfaction +0]


    Qiu Tu, who was biting into a dumpling, briefly froze in his actions, and a question mark slowly appeared over his head: ?


    Then... he was completely baffled.


    ...


    Shen Lingshuang was indeed a good girl.


    Though somewhat haughty, she was very good at taking care of others, and... she was also diligent.


    While Qiu Tu was in bed checking the rewards from last night''s "Loyalty Game," she had "pitter-pattered" into the bathroom, pulled up her pants after, and "clomp clomp clomp" went downstairs.


    By the time Qiu Tu had examined his "Loyalty Game" reward and was analyzing information, she had "clomp clomp clomp" come back upstairs with two baskets of soup dumplings, calling Qiu Tu to eat.


    After eating Shen Lingshuang''s dumplings, Qiu Tu washed up briefly, then, with the girl''s help, dressed in his uniform, armed himself, and set off for work.


    The two had an unspoken understanding: one did not ask why you didn''t leave, and the other did not say why she stayed.


    It was only during the meal that Shen Lingshuang returned all the money Qiu Tu had given her the night before.


    Qiu Tu silently pocketed the money, and that was the end of it.


    Before leaving the house, Qiu Tu also gave Shen Lingshuang two reminders.


    The first was to be careful on her own at home and to go directly to the Old Alley Street Public Security Office for help if there were any problems. He had already informed the "Monkey."


    The second was... to stop burning paper offerings and hanging his portrait! He did not want to see such "surprises" a second time!


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s blunt criticism, Shen Lingshuang''s face showed defiance, her pursed lips almost able to hang an oil pot.


    Even after Qiu Tu''s scolding, she still muttered under her breath behind him:


    "It''s still because you didn''t come home all night." "Who is a good person and doesn''t come home for a whole night?" "Must be hooking up with some woman out there," and other nonsensical mutterings.


    Qiu Tu paid no mind, turned around and gave her a flick on the head, knocking some sense into her, before heading downstairs to drive to work.


    However, after sitting in the car, Qiu Tu did not start it right away, but instead reviewed the two prompts he had received while eating the dumplings:


    [Yan Chen Suspicion -4, Satisfaction +9]


    [Jia Shu Suspicion -0, Satisfaction +0]


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was genuinely puzzled.


    Because he was truly just simply having breakfast and hadn''t done anything else.


    Why Yan Chen decreased his suspicion and increased his satisfaction towards him was a complete mystery to him.


    So, at that time, he said nothing and just quietly finished the meal with Shen Lingshuang.

 Chapter 67 Yan Chen is Satisfied +9 (7k for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    And now, alone, he finally had time to ponder what exactly was going on.First, he checked the "Active Prompt" explanation of the [Loyalty Game] again: "You will see the impact of your actions and words on your subordinates and superiors."


    When he first saw this definition, Qiu Tu thought it would only prompt him when there was an interaction face-to-face.


    Now it seemed that wasn''t the case.


    Even if he wasn''t in front of Yan Chen or Jia Shu, the things he had done and the words he had said seemed to influence them and give him real-time feedback.


    After figuring out how this "prompt" worked, Qiu Tu felt things were much simpler.


    That is: what exactly had he done to reduce Yan Chen''s suspicion and increase his satisfaction with him? And... Jia Shu was involved in this matter...?


    After all, without Jia Shu, it wouldn''t have been possible for the prompt to pop up with Yan Chen.


    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu started his car and sank into silent contemplation.


    In the past few days, the Municipal Committee of Xinjie City seemed to have suddenly received a large amount of financial support; the roads were being repaved, public facilities were being rebuilt, and Xinjie City had officially entered the era of infrastructure development.


    Unfortunately, these were all things that would be beneficial in the future; at least for now, because construction was everywhere, the roads were even harder to navigate.


    Qiu Tu carefully drove his car, trying his best to avoid any accidents.


    After turning past several repaved roads and passing by a few reconstructed signal towers, just as Qiu Tu was driving past a rebuilt power plant, he suddenly slammed on the brakes!


    The tires screeched madly on the worn-out road, emitting a "piercing" noise.


    Pedestrians on both sides of the road scrambled to evade: it wasn''t that they were afraid of the car exploding, but rather they feared the driver being in a bad mood, getting out, and randomly choosing a pedestrian to beat up.


    In the waste-laden Planning Area where only the rich or powerful were able to afford cars, even if they randomly assaulted pedestrians, the victims could only silently endure.


    Of course, Qiu Tu wasn''t so heartless. He had simply suddenly realized the answer to the question he had before driving!


    Why was it necessary that he had done something to make Yan Chen satisfied?


    Why couldn''t it be that he hadn''t done something, which was why Yan Chen was satisfied?


    Upon clarifying this key point, Qiu Tu''s thoughts opened up instantly.


    He felt he might have guessed the whole truth of the matter.


    First of all, Yan Chen''s satisfaction with him must be due to something Jia Shu reported.


    And what could Jia Shu have reported about him to make Yan Chen satisfied?


    His slacking off at the Investigation Bureau during the day? Flirting with female subordinates? Or leaving work right on the dot?


    Impossible!


    Therefore, the thing Jia Shu reported could only be about... what he did last night.


    Then the question was, let alone what he did last night, how did Jia Shu know about it?


    With this, things became simple: Jia Shu must have been watching him last night.


    But why would Jia Shu be watching him last night?


    Was it because he was suspicious of him?


    Qiu Tu recalled the entire conversation he had with Jia Shu yesterday, and there was no problem: this could be seen from the fact that the "suspicion" level of Jia Shu in the [Loyalty Game] hadn''t changed at all.


    Was it because of his meeting with Qin Shuman?


    But... since the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department could not afford to have a falling out, and Jia Shu couldn''t possibly sneak into the room and eavesdrop on his exchange with Qin Shuman, there was no need for surveillance.


    And aside from these two possibilities, only one significant thing happened around Qiu Tu last night that would warrant Jia Shu monitoring all the suspects: the death of Vice President Tian''s mistress.


    Having clarified the focus of the matter, what followed was simple.


    He had done nothing last night.


    After receiving Secretary Bai''s call, he didn''t flee nor did he investigate secretly.


    Meeting with Liu Fuping, he did not collaborate with her, nor did he follow her.


    And this reduced Yan Chen''s suspicion and made him satisfied.


    As the logic board got to this point, Qiu Tu had no trouble understanding the true nature of the entire affair: last night''s incident had been a trap!


    The message from last night, it was very likely a joint ruse set up by Yan Chen and Jia Shu!


    The purpose was to test the attitudes and positions of all involved parties and then root out those harboring disloyalty towards Yan Chen and the Investigation Bureau!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu finally understood something else: the source of Liu Fuping''s information.


    He had suspected Liu Fuping''s source of information last night.


    After all, Qiu Tu had only learned about the "Death of a Female Spy" through a secret tip-off from Secretary Bai. And Secretary Bai was not only Yan Chen''s right-hand man but also a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau.


    What status did Liu Fuping have to receive the same information as him?!


    And after sorting everything out, Qiu Tu suddenly realized everything: Jia Shu had secretly released the information to several lines, which was why the message had reached the scouts of various forces.


    So, anyone who had received the message last night and then acted strangely was probably under surveillance by Jia Shu.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu''s face involuntarily darkened a few shades.


    ''Such ruthless tactics.''


    ''One piece of news, fishing out a string of fish!''


    ''Last night, who knows how many moles were exposed and caught the attention of Jia Shu.'' S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon understanding the whole ordeal, Qiu Tu wasn''t pleased.


    Because what lay before him was a cruel reality:


    He "withstood the test" and earned Yan Chen''s appreciation, meaning Secretary Bai and Liu Fuping failed the test.


    Liu Fuping was inconsequential, but Secretary Bai was one of his own, and the only high-ranking member in the Investigation Bureau he could trust.


    If something happened to him, there would be no one left to tip off Qiu Tu or guide him through confusion.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s face grew colder still.


    ''Old Bai must not have an accident!''


    With that thought, he started the car and drove while quietly contemplating how to save Secretary Bai''s fate.


    Driving like this all the way until he was close to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu finally had a rough idea.


    Looking at the scenery retreating past the car window, Qiu Tu took a deep breath, murmuring to himself softly,


    ''I still need to find the right opportunity... I hope it''s not too late.''


    .....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau in no time.


    Arriving at the parking lot of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu stopped the car, was just about to open the door and get out when he bumped into Qin Zhengguang, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau and second son of the Qin Family, who was also just getting out of his car.


    In just two short days, Qin Zhengguang seemed to have aged quite a bit: his face not only had many more wrinkles but his eyes were also a bit darker.


    It was clear that the anxiety of the past few days had left him with little rest.


    And upon seeing Qiu Tu, his gaze became somewhat complicated.


    After all... Qiu Tu was both his "savior" and the "enemy" of the entire Qin Family...


    Without Qiu Tu initiating the investigation, the Qin brothers wouldn''t have turned on each other, the main house wouldn''t have burned down, and the Qin Family wouldn''t have been forced to rely on Yan Chen...


    So, upon seeing Qiu Tu, he first spaced out for a moment, then smiled and said, "Agent Qiu... oh, I''m sorry, I mean Chief Qiu. Have you gotten used to the Interrogation Section yet?"


    Upon seeing Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu was also taken aback.


    He didn''t have mixed feelings towards Qin Zhengguang.


    Seeing him reminded Qiu Tu of Master Qin Si''s wife and children.


    Even though Master Qin Si''s wife and children were in custody at the Security Department, their wealth had fallen into the hands of his own brothers.


    Tonight might be a good opportunity to take inventory, to see just how much money that old codger had made over the years....

 Chapter 68 Saving Secretary Bai (7k for follow-up reading!)

    As he thought this, Qiu Tu also came to his senses and replied with a smile, "Thank you for your concern, Director Qin.""I''m still getting accustomed to the public service. As for whether I''m used to it or not...?"


    "Well, I can only say that I am a member of the Investigation Bureau, so no matter what tasks my superiors assign to me, I will get used to them."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s utterly official response, Qin Zhengguang smiled and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "It''s good to have that awareness."


    "However, if you''re not used to it, you can talk to me."


    "If you''re willing, I can go have a chat with the Bureau Chief and transfer you to our Public Security Bureau."


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s words, Qiu Tu looked at him seriously to make sure he wasn''t just being polite, then his eyebrows slightly lifted, and he replied with a smile, "Thank you for your concern, Director Qin."


    "If I need to, I will definitely trouble you."


    Qin Zhengguang "hmmed" in response, then gestured to Qiu Tu before they started walking towards the Investigation Bureau building together.


    Meanwhile, as they walked, Qiu Tu wasn''t idle. He glanced at Qin Zhengguang walking beside him and tentatively asked, "Director Qin, are you familiar with Vice President Tian?"


    "Vice President Tian?" Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang clearly paused for a moment.


    After hesitating briefly, he shook his head smilingly, "I''m not very familiar with Vice President Tian."


    "But my eldest brother, my third brother, and... Fourth Brother have quite a good relationship with him."


    When mentioning "Fourth Brother," Qin Zhengguang''s expression visibly soured.


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows slightly furrowed, ''Commissioner Qin, Third Brother Qin, Old Fourth Qin all have good relations with Vice President Tian?''


    It was normal for a city hall commissioner and a major businessman to be acquainted with Vice President Tian, but why would Old Fourth Qin, a tough guy, have dealings with him?


    At this moment, seeing Qiu Tu ask such a question, Qin Zhengguang curiously countered, "Chief Qiu, why do you ask this? Has something happened to Vice President Tian?"


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s question, Qiu Tu recovered his wits and was just about to give a perfunctory reply.


    However, at that moment, a familiar voice called out from behind them, "Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing that call, Qiu Tu, who had been quite relaxed, suddenly tensed up.


    Because... that was Secretary Bai''s voice.


    ''Why would I encounter him at a time like this?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu stealthily swept his gaze over the entire first-floor lobby of the Investigation Bureau building.


    Perhaps because it was during work hours, there were a lot of investigators coming and going in the lobby.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu felt slightly stirred: although it wasn''t the most ideal scene, could it be an opportunity to save Old Bai?


    At this time, hearing the voice behind him, Qin Zhengguang also looked back.


    Seeing that it was Secretary Bai, he turned around, smiling as he patted Qiu Tu''s arm, then prepared to leave swiftly.


    But the moment his right foot stepped forward, Qiu Tu suddenly reached out and grabbed him.


    This action left Qin Zhengguang bewildered.


    He stopped walking, surprised, and looked at Qiu Tu, not understanding what Qiu Tu was up to.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu, while holding on to Qin Zhengguang, turned around and saluted the approaching Secretary Bai with a standard gesture, saying in a distant, formal tone, "Good day, sir!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s action, Secretary Bai was slightly taken aback as well, and his pace involuntarily slowed down, his gaze flickering.


    At that moment, Qin Zhengguang standing next to Qiu Tu was already completely dumbfounded.


    In the Investigation Bureau with so many senior staff, who didn''t know that Qiu Tu was brought up by Secretary Bai''s own hand?


    It was because of Secretary Bai''s recommendation that Qiu Tu managed to catch Yan Chen''s eye, be put to good use, and step by step reach his current position.


    Therefore, Secretary Bai could be said to have been the benefactor who recognized Qiu Tu''s potential. And the label of being part of Secretary Bai''s loyalists had long been stamped upon him.


    Yet now, Qiu Tu was being so cold to Secretary Bai?


    There must be something fishy going on!


    At this moment, Qin Zhengguang felt as if he had wandered into a "Melon Field," looking back and forth between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai, his heart filled with curiosity...


    But at that time, Qiu Tu did not give Qin Zhengguang the chance to continue "watching the show."


    After asking and receiving a response, his expression cooled. Then he nodded slightly to Secretary Bai, turned around pulling Qin Zhengguang, and walked away.


    Qin Zhengguang was reluctant to leave, but... he had to. So he smiled at Secretary Bai, and then was pulled by Qiu Tu into the elevator.


    The two men stood inside the elevator, while Secretary Bai stood outside.


    Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai looked at each other across the space.


    Taking advantage of the moment when Qin Zhengguang was not paying attention, Qiu Tu''s head moved slightly left and right.


    Because he was in the elevator, the outside investigators couldn''t see him ¨C only Secretary Bai, who was directly in front of him, saw the movement.


    Secretary Bai''s brow furrowed slightly, as if he had thought of something.


    The elevator doors slowly closed...


    And just as they were about to close, Secretary Bai''s expression subtly changed, he cast a resentful glance at Qiu Tu and then spat on the ground, muttering under his breath, "What a thing! Ungrateful! Doesn''t know when he''s well off!"


    Accompanying that mutter, the elevator doors sealed shut, as if severing the inside world from the outside.


    And faintly hearing Secretary Bai''s response, Qiu Tu also completely relaxed; he still had an understanding with Old Bai...


    As the elevator ascended slowly, Qin Zhengguang scanned Qiu Tu multiple times throughout the ride and finally couldn''t help himself, "Chief Qiu and Secretary Bai...?"


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s words, Qiu Tu pretended to just snap back to reality, then he ''oh''-ed, smiling hastily as he said, "There''s nothing between us. All normal. Director Qin misunderstood."


    At that moment, the elevator doors opened, reaching the 5th floor, which was the office level of the Public Security Bureau.


    Qin Zhengguang''s face revealed an "I''ve seen through it all" expression, smiling as he patted Qiu Tu and teased, "I haven''t even said anything yet. How do you know I misunderstood?"


    After saying that, he laughed ''haha'' twice, with the smile of a victor, and stepped out of the elevator.


    And behind him, an expression of chagrin involuntarily appeared on Qiu Tu''s face, as if Qin Zhengguang really had seen through him.


    Only when Qin Zhengguang''s figure had completely vanished did his expression slowly return to normal, and his eyes started to playfully twinkle.


    Every good show needs an audience, and Qin Zhengguang was clearly a qualified one.


    With his preconceived notions, the incident of his conflict with Secretary Bai would likely spread throughout the Investigation Bureau quickly.


    Moreover, with so many investigators coming and going in the lobby just before, there would certainly be some who noticed the abnormality between himself and Secretary Bai. They would add fuel to the fire as the topic spread.


    So, he believed it wouldn''t take long for this matter to reach the ears of Jia Shu and Yan Chen.


    He and Secretary Bai had a very good relationship just yesterday. And now, they''re suddenly at odds this morning?


    Under these circumstances, they would easily suspect that the conflict with Secretary Bai might have something to do with the phone call last night.


    If Secretary Bai had been tipping him off, there would be no reason for them to fall out.


    Therefore, the call from Secretary Bai last night was most likely about something else.


    With this preconception in place, handling the rest with Secretary Bai would be easy.


    He just needed to come up with some lie about their conflict when it was appropriate, such as when Yan Chen asked, and he could use that opportunity to clear a lot of suspicions.


    And even if there weren''t a good opportunity to explain, as long as the fake news reached Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s ears, it would influence their judgment regarding Secretary Bai''s potential betrayal.


    Even if, retreating ten thousand steps, Qiu Tu had guessed everything about the true nature of the incident wrong, and last night wasn''t a scheme,


    It was beneficial for Qiu Tu, enmeshed in a great vortex, to keep his distance from Secretary Bai for Secretary Bai''s own good as well.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu felt that he had truly invested a lot of care for both himself and Secretary Bai...


    ''Old Bai, I''ve done all I could. The rest is up to you...''


    Thinking thus, the elevator doors closed slowly, and then it continued its ascent.


    Soon, he arrived at the 9th floor.


    Qiu Tu got off the elevator and headed towards the office area of the Interrogation Section.


    On his way, Qiu Tu was not idle; he kept a discreet watch on the Political Department Investigators coming and going.


    Just as he had surmised, the whole Political Department was not busier than usual because of the female spy''s death; everything was as orderly as in the days before.


    This showed that the information was indeed being contained, only leaking out quietly through a few hidden channels.


    This was indeed very consistent with the theory of a "trap."


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also reached the Interrogation Section.


    But as soon as he arrived, his subordinate Song Qing found him.


    Saluting Qiu Tu, Song Qing reported respectfully, "Chief, the Commissioner wants to see you."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Song Qing''s "Loyalty."


    After yesterday''s "strike declaration," Song Qing''s Loyalty finally exceeded 30, reaching 31 points.


    This indicated that she now saw him as a normal superior, without the inclination to "resist orders" or "speak ill behind his back."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also probed with a question, "What does the Commissioner want to discuss with me?"


    Indeed, the loyal Song Qing hesitated briefly but still whispered a piece of news to Qiu Tu, "It seems he wants to talk to you about Cao Dabiao and his issues."


    ----


    We''ve started a new reader group for our book, hah. Reader group number: 486883284 (5 groups of regular book friends).


    You can also join the group directly by clicking on the link in the author''s message. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Those interested can consider joining.

 Chapter 69 Sugar-Coated Cannonballs (7k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment.''Cao Dabiao?''


    ''The First Level Detective from the Political Department who was tricked by me to take the fall for the Qin Family?''


    Qiu Tu was taken aback,


    ''So...is it about the issue with the Political Department team stationed at the Qin Family?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, and he roughly had a guess in his mind.


    The art of controlling subordinates changes endlessly but never strays from its root: it''s all about the stick and the carrot.


    Previously, the "sticks" given to me were more than enough; now, are they preparing the carrot?


    Combining the increased satisfaction from Yan Chen this morning, Qiu Tu felt his guess was very close to the truth.


    At this moment, as Qiu Tu silently pondered, Song Qing was curiously sizing up Qiu Tu by her side.


    After a moment, when Qiu Tu came back to his senses, Song Qing asked curiously, "Chief, do you already know what''s going on?"


    Upon hearing her, Qiu Tu looked at her and said with a smile, "I have a rough idea."


    "It''s probably about conducting an internal review of Cao Dabiao and his team. After all, I''ve once been their superior."


    "If that''s the case, the minister''s attitude might be to let them off."


    "They''re really lucky."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing couldn''t help but show a trace of surprise on her face.


    She found it quite magical.


    The young chief before her seemed to have many facets: there was the image of the Profligate Son who teased his subordinates, the image of the warrior who dared to challenge his superiors, and the clever image of a strategist who planned with cleverness...


    Song Qing''s perception of Qiu Tu had changed a lot, perhaps influenced by Qiu Tu''s confrontation with Zheng Tao yesterday.


    Qiu Tu, with his keen awareness, noticed the change in Song Qing''s attitude toward him, so on the way to see Jia Shu, he kept busy.


    He recalled the reason for Song Qing''s increase in loyalty yesterday and then chose a similar entry point.


    "Is our Interrogation Section always this busy?"


    Qiu Tu might have really found Song Qing''s switch.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Song Qing immediately opened up and started a torrent of complaints.


    Qiu Tu listened quietly by the side, occasionally joining in the complaint, providing some emotional value.


    So, in just a short two-minute walk, Song Qing''s look at Qiu Tu had already completely changed, almost considering Qiu Tu a confidant.


    And Qiu Tu also received the feedback he wanted:


    [Song Qing''s loyalty +11. Current loyalty: 42.]


    Seeing how rapidly he was closing the distance with Song Qing, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    ''Sure enough, young girls are easy to deceive.''


    [108 Ways to Boost Affection] No 41: Women are emotional creatures. Being a listener at the right time and joining their complaints can quickly close the distance between two people.


    So, a bad man must learn how to bring out a girl''s topics and listen. If you can turn on her switch, then the other switches... will be much easier to turn on as well.


    Having conversed all the way, Song Qing seemed a bit reluctant to end the conversation, but they had reached the place where Jia Shu was waiting to meet with Qiu Tu, so she had to stop there.


    Her eyes twinkling, she looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Chief, I didn''t expect us to have so much in common, I hope we can talk more in the future."


    Qiu Tu, smiling, replied, "You can come to me anytime you have any issues. Let''s communicate more."


    Song Qing gave a cute "Mhm" and then pointed to the Sky Garden not far off, saying, "Chief, the minister is waiting for you at the Sky Garden."


    Upon hearing her, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, said a polite "Thank you," and then stepped towards the Sky Garden.


    Walking onto the rooftop, Jia Shu indeed stood at the edge of the Sky Garden, hands behind his back, gazing at the scene of Xinjie City where much needed to be done.


    Maybe having heard Qiu Tu''s footsteps, he did not turn around but continued looking at the scenery while saying with a laugh, "If you find that you get along with a stranger no matter what you talk about, you must be careful."


    "Because more likely than not, they aren''t truly compatible with you but have knowledge, experience, emotional intelligence, and IQ far above yours."


    With that, he turned around, his expression mockingly smiling, and looked at Qiu Tu, "Don''t you agree, Chief Qiu?"


    Knowing that Jia Shu was hinting at his overpowering treatment of Song Qing, Qiu Tu merely smiled noncommittally, "Communicating more with subordinates and listening to their opinions about the department is my responsibility as a chief."


    Jia Shu watched Qiu Tu, and Qiu Tu also just quietly looked back at him. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a moment, the smile on Jia Shu''s face became incredibly radiant.


    He turned back to continue gazing at the distant scenery and then inquired, "Do you still remember where this place is, Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu paused, his gaze sweeping over the Sky Garden.


    Jia Shu continued, "Don''t remember?"


    Qiu Tu quickly searched through the memories of his predecessor but... came up empty.


    So he could only respond with an evasive laugh, "I really don''t seem to have any impression..."


    Upon hearing that, Jia Shu chuckled lightly, "That''s right. You should have no memory because this is your first time here."


    Qiu Tu was filled with question marks: ??


    What''s wrong with you?


    It''s my first time here, and you make all this fuss, scaring me! I thought my time-traveling secret was going to be exposed!


    Jia Shu, oblivious to Qiu Tu''s internal monologue, continued gazing at Xinjie City with his back to Qiu Tu, and kept speaking, "This is the Sky Garden, where only chiefs and above middle-level officers are allowed."


    "Here, you can enjoy tea and desserts while looking down at the whole Xinjie City."


    "You can also have a waiter clean your uniform, prepare dinner, or even buy you anything you want."


    With that, Jia Shu turned around and motioned with a wave of his hand. Immediately, a young and beautiful female server approached to hand him a cup of coffee.

 Chapter 69 Sugar-Coated Cannonballs (7k words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Jia Shu leaned on the railing at the edge of the rooftop, sipped his coffee lightly, and then continued, "And once you become the Director, you will have an independent rest room on the 12th floor, a personal secretary, a personal driver.""A villa in the city center provided by City Hall, all the resources related to your life provided by the Investigation Bureau."


    "As for becoming the Bureau Chief..."


    At this point, Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile, "As one of the three most powerful people in the entire Xinjie City, your command will be the will of everyone in Xinjie City."


    "Whatever you want, someone will bring it to you the next day."


    "Whichever woman you like, she will appear in your bed the next day."


    "Whatever you want to do in Xinjie City, as long as you don''t betray the Sanctuary, no one in Xinjie City can stop you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu blinked and asked, "Not even the military or the Municipal Committee can stop me?"


    Jia Shu nodded with a smile, "Of course."


    "Moreover... they won''t stop you."


    "At that level, even if there are struggles, they are all on the battlefield above, who would care about what you do below."


    As he said this, Jia Shu continued with a smile, "And if you want to climb up step by step, you must follow the right person."


    "Only by following the right person can you climb to the peak step by step."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu immediately understood his implication and immediately professed his loyalty.


    He straightened his spine and said resolutely, "Director, rest assured! I will definitely follow closely behind you, closely behind the Bureau Chief''s footsteps!"


    Loyalty doesn''t cost a thing. Qiu Tu would give Jia Shu his loyalty, even at wholesale if necessary. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jia Shu obviously wasn''t fooled; he smiled noncommittally and said, "No matter how nice the words are, it all depends on concrete actions."


    Having said that, Jia Shu finally revealed the reason he had called Qiu Tu over, "Next, I have two tasks for you."


    "Two tasks?" Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment. This was quite different from what Song Qing had told him.


    Jia Shu nodded, and then said, "The first task is, in the next few days you will conduct an internal interrogation of Cao Dabiao''s group of agents."


    He continued, "You know that a big incident happened at the Qin Family a few days ago. Not only did Master Qin Si escape, but Miss Qin Shuman is still missing."


    "Cao Dabiao''s group, as part of Miss Shuman''s Security Team and the Qin Family''s secret investigation group, failed in their duties and have all been detained."


    "You were previously their superior, so you should be familiar with them and very clear about their merits and faults in this operation."


    "Therefore, it would be best for you to adjudicate and mete out their punishments."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu did not agree immediately but instead tentatively asked, "Does the chief have any opinions about this internal interrogation?"


    On hearing this, Jia Shu looked deep into Qiu Tu''s eyes. Then, with a smile that seemed not quite a smile, he said, "No opinions. You have full discretion."


    However, after saying that, he added another sentence, "This opportunity was specially secured for you by the Bureau Chief himself."


    "You should seize it well."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu immediately knew that his previous guess was correct: this was his carrot, allowing him to cultivate his own faction openly and above board.


    Thinking this, he quickly professed his loyalty again, "Thank you, Director, for the cultivation!"


    Jia Shu nodded in satisfaction, then took a sip of his coffee, and continued, "The second task is also related to you, actually."


    He said, "Yin Caimei is dead."


    Qiu Tu, mimicking the expression he had last night, looked completely bewildered, "Who?"


    Jia Shu looked deeply at him, as if trying to discern whether he was feigning ignorance.


    Possibly seeing no tell-tale signs, Jia Shu explained, "The female spy you interrogated the day before yesterday. Vice President Tian''s mistress."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly feigned a look of realization, "Ah, her."


    Then Qiu Tu furrowed his brow and candidly said, "Director, to tell you the truth, I heard about this last night."


    Jia Shu let out an "Oh?" and asked with feigned curiosity, "Who told you?"


    Having guessed the whole truth of the matter, Qiu Tu did not hesitate to betray Liu Fuping, "From Agent Liu."


    Qiu Tu said, "Last night, Agent Liu found me and told me the news. Then she asked me what to do."


    Qiu Tu spread his hands with an innocent look and said, "How should I know what to do."


    "If an important witness dies, the Bureau will just follow the normal procedure to investigate, perform an autopsy. See what the cause of death was, if it''s natural causes then close the case, if it''s foul play then look for a mole."


    "It''s not like I was the interrogator, I''m just a supervisor, what does it have to do with me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu chuckled, "Agent Qiu is really cold-hearted."


    "I remember a few days ago, you and Agent Liu seemed quite close; I even thought you took an interest in her."


    Qiu Tu also laughed and said, "Raising a fish, if it dies, I would be very sad, but raising a whole pond of fish, if one or two die, what does it have to do with me."


    "In chaotic times, there are only bodies, no feelings."


    Upon hearing this, Jia Shu clapped his hands, not knowing whether he was being sarcastic or offering praise, "Good, very carefree."


    Having said that, he changed his tone and said, "But now, this matter does concern you."


    "From today onwards, you will be responsible for investigating the death of this female spy."


    "This female spy was Vice President Tian''s mistress and was involved with several bigwigs from the political and business circles of Xinjie City."


    "Yet she was also a spy for the United Front, and over the year since the establishment of Xinjie City, she has delivered intelligence to the United Front multiple times, causing many businessmen in Xinjie to suffer losses. Therefore, her identity is extremely sensitive."


    "Now she suddenly died in our Bureau''s guard room. We must thoroughly investigate this matter to give a satisfactory explanation to the political and business circles that are watching this closely."


    As he said this, without waiting for Qiu Tu to ask, Jia Shu implied, "So, her case must be wrapped up quickly, and it shouldn''t cause too much of a stir."


    "Especially... it has to satisfy the interests of both the political and business realms."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu was startled, instinctively feeling that something was wrong.


    At the same time, something flashed before his eyes.


    The next second, lines of [Crisis Warning] appeared in his field of vision.


    "Triggered Crisis Intuition! Generating crisis report!"


    "For certain reasons, your immediate supervisor, Head of the Political Department of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu, has assigned you a task filled with traps."


    "This task has attracted the attention of many forces in Xinjie City. Just one misstep and you will fall into a deep abyss."


    "But standing on the rooftop as you are, you have no room to refuse. Denying him will allow him to use insubordination as an excuse, suspend your position, strip you of your ''Golden Body'', and then find an opportunity to secretly execute you."


    "Accept the mission, and dance on a tightrope, find that slim chance of survival before the patience of the many powers runs out."


    As the warning ended, a countdown hourglass popped up.


    [10 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    Seeing the [Crisis Warning] that popped up in front of him, cold sweat dripped down Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    If he was only suspicious before, now with the prompt from [Crisis Intuition], he was completely certain.


    The waters of this case were indeed deep! There were also big problems!


    And what was more troublesome... he didn''t have much choice!


    This old scoundrel really deserved a terrible death!


    Mentally sending a kind greeting to Jia Shu''s maternal relatives, Qiu Tu then looked at Jia Shu, smiling as he replied, "Understood, sir. I will make sure to handle this in a way that satisfies everyone."


    Upon hearing this, a hint of a smile appeared in the depths of Jia Shu''s eyes. He patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder with satisfaction and encouraged, "Very good. The Bureau Chief and I indeed haven''t misjudged you."


    [Jia Shu''s suspicion-0, satisfaction+1]


    ...


    After discussing the two tasks with Jia Shu, Qiu Tu suppressed the unease in his heart and tried to appear normal.


    So, he took the opportunity to briefly mention his encounter with the Security Department the previous night as a [Double Agent].


    In his words, he had gone through great hardships to reconnect with the Security Department. They, however, remained vigilant towards him, clearly not fully trusting him.

 Chapter 70 The Agents Were All Stunned (7k Request for Follow-up Reading!)

    However, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu just smiled and said something rather inexplicable, "It doesn''t matter, even if they don''t trust you now, they will soon rely on you heavily."Qiu Tu always felt there was a deeper meaning to Jia Shu''s words, as if there were some problems within the Security Department. But because of his position, he couldn''t inquire further, so he had no choice but to let it go.


    And so, after discussing all the matters, Qiu Tu and Jia Shu had a brief chat before Qiu Tu saluted and left the Sky Garden.


    After leaving the Sky Garden, Qiu Tu held the two Authorization Letters from Jia Shu, and as he walked towards the Interrogation Section, he pondered his next steps.


    According to the hints provided by "Crisis Intuition," this case was riddled with a great deal of insider dealings, and various forces were involved, likely with misaligned targets and interests.


    Take Jia Shu, for example...


    Given the implications of Jia Shu''s words, it was clear he wanted Qiu Tu to make the case appear fraudulent, to deal with it perfunctorily.


    But... Qiu Tu definitely couldn''t just comply with his wishes.


    Otherwise, who knows, he might end up being thrown out as a scapegoat!


    Therefore, he must investigate this case personally, or at the very least... he had to make some noise about it! S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Investigating required manpower, and so did making noise. Right now, he had only a few individuals at his disposal, so the first step was to release Cao Dabiao and his group.


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but contemplate how to release Cao Dabiao and his people, while also taking this opportunity to maximize their loyalty...


    Gradually, Qiu Tu had a plan forming in his mind...


    [10 Days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    ....


    Meanwhile.


    In a large holding room on the 9th floor of the Political Department.


    Cao Dabiao and another 13 detectives were inside.


    Since they were their own people and not real criminals, the guards did not mistreat them. Therefore, their physical condition was fairly good, but their spirits were greatly tormented.


    After a prolonged silence...


    Little Liu, a confidant of Cao Dabiao, nudged him and then whispered, "Brother Biao, will we be able to get out of here?"


    "It''s been several days already."


    "Why has no one cared about us?"


    "Could we be directly kicked out of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Upon hearing Little Liu''s words, Cao Dabiao looked up at him with a glare and said hoarsely, "What a jinx!"


    "If you can''t talk properly, then don''t talk at all, no one''s treating you like a mute!"


    Little Qi on the other side of Cao Dabiao looked up upon hearing this and sighed, "If we were only getting kicked out of the Investigation Bureau that would still be fine."


    "We''ve lost the Bureau Chief''s mistress, and during the investigation, such a big event occurred with the Qin family."


    "The Minister sparing us is only because we are their own people."


    Cao Dabiao didn''t expect that just as he had silenced Little Liu, Little Qi would speak up, mentioning the sensitive topic of the mistress.


    He slapped Little Qi on the head with a "smack", "You talk too much! Do you have a death wish?"


    However, perhaps because they had been locked up in the Guard Room for two whole days, the atmosphere inside seemed like it was losing control.


    Little Liu and Little Qi, Cao Dabiao''s confidants, were hushed by Cao Dabiao, but the other regular detectives also started to grumble quietly among themselves.


    There were various complaints.


    For instance...


    "We really got the short end of the stick. We didn''t do anything, yet suddenly such a big problem arises, and we immediately become the scapegoats."


    "Yeah. We are truly wronged. Who could have known something like this would happen?"


    "If you ask me, this is all Qiu Tu''s fault. If he hadn''t suddenly started investigating the Qin family, drawing us in, perhaps we wouldn''t have been so unlucky. And now he''s gone, while we all got into trouble."


    As soon as this detective voiced his complaint, the atmosphere in the Guard Room became tense.


    In the face of unexpected "man-made disasters," most normal people''s first reaction is to look for external outlets to vent their frustration, to ease their internal distress. This is human nature.


    And Qiu Tu, the person who had called everyone over, naturally became the most easily targeted outlet for venting.


    But one should not forget that Qiu Tu was not the same as before.


    Even though Qiu Tu was nominally their superior, he was, in fact, just like them, a lower-level detective.


    But now Qiu Tu is a Deputy Staff, a leap into the mid-level ranks of the Investigation Bureau, with open channels for advancement and limitless potential for growth.


    In this situation, these detectives, bearing the guilt, how could they dare to offend Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, even if they wanted to curse at Qiu Tu, the most they could do was curse in their hearts; they wouldn''t dare to speak out loud.


    After all, who knew if these words would reach Qiu Tu''s ears and bring even bigger troubles.


    So, when they heard that fearless remark from the detective, everyone suddenly fell silent, and no one dared to join in.


    A moment passed before the deputy team leader, Chen Feng, spoke up. His face showed no emotion as he said, "This isn''t Chief Qiu''s fault."


    "He didn''t know this would happen."


    "It''s just our own bad luck."


    After he finished speaking, the guard room became quiet again. Although the investigators stopped talking, their expressions varied widely.


    At that point, Cao Dabiao also spoke up. With his arms crossed and leaning against the wall, he said in a muffled voice, "He indeed couldn''t have known in advance that this would happen, but... he must have found out after the fact, right?"


    "It was because of him that we all got dragged into this, and we''ve been subordinates to them for several days. Back then, he acted like he was our brother. Now, if he cared at all, he should try to find some way to save us."


    His words clearly resonated with many investigators. A significant number nodded slightly, their faces betraying their disgruntlement. Some even had reddened eyes as they reflected on their uncertain futures.


    But there were a few investigators, like Chen Feng, who showed no reaction and simply sat there with cold expressions.


    For a moment, every person in the guard room sat with varying expressions, lost in their emotions.


    Just then, the sound of unlocking the door suddenly came from the entrance.


    Upon hearing this, the investigators in the guard room quickly straightened up and looked towards the door, their hearts pounding with anxiety.


    They had been locked up here for two days and nights. Although food and water were delivered on time, not a single person had come to see them. This had left them restless for two days.


    Now, finally someone had come to see them. Regardless of whether the outcome was good or bad, at least they no longer had to endure the agony.


    As these thoughts raced through their minds, the door to the guard room opened.


    A beautiful young woman with two gold stars on her shoulder stepped into the room, escorted by a guard investigator.


    Upon entering the guard room, the young woman held her nose and fanned the air distastefully, saying, "Yuck, it stinks."


    The investigators inside blushed slightly, feeling uncomfortable.


    After making her remark, the young woman looked around at all the troubled investigators in the room, confirmed the headcount, and then took out a document, announcing, "I am Second-Class Investigator Liu Fuping from the Interrogation Section, under orders from my superiors I am here to take you for an internal investigation."


    "Now, when I call your name, step out and line up. Follow me."


    With that, Liu Fuping began calling out names from the list, "Cao Dabiao."


    "Present!" Cao Dabiao quickly got up and hurried over to Liu Fuping.


    When he arrived in front of Liu Fuping, he showed a sycophantic smile and bent over as he greeted, "Hello, Officer, sorry to trouble you."


    He was a First Level Detective, addressing Liu Fuping, a Second-Class Investigator, as an officer ¨C a distinction that made Liu Fuping glance at him in surprise.


    "Chen Feng."


    Chen Feng stood up without expression from his spot in the corner and stood behind Cao Dabiao.


    "Ding Liu, Ding Qi!"


    As names were called out one by one, it wasn''t long before all 13 investigators stood in a line.


    After confirming the headcount, Liu Fuping gestured with her hand, then, swaying her hips, she left the guard room.


    Outside the guard room, six Operational Group investigators with live ammunition stood at the ready, handcuffing the investigators as they walked out, including Cao Dabiao.


    Thus, led by Liu Fuping and escorted by the six Operational Group investigators, Cao Dabiao and the rest arrived at a large interrogation room.


    To everyone''s surprise, this interrogation did not seem to be the usual individual interrogation, but a collective one.


    Cao Dabiao and the others entered the large interrogation room one after another, then stood in line against the wall with their handcuffs on.


    The braver among them stole glances at the interrogation personnel, noticing there were three seats for interrogators.


    Only the leftmost seat was occupied, by a young girl, who judging by her shoulder insignia, was a Third-Level Detective, presumably the recorder, given the pen and paperwork in her hands.


    As for the other two seats, they remained empty for now.


    Seeing this, the investigators couldn''t help feeling apprehensive.


    Their mission had indeed encountered serious issues. But as they were unforeseen circumstances, they could be excused, so the punishment could be severe or lenient, all dependent on the Interrogation Officer''s handling and sentencing.


    As a result, the attitude of the Interrogation Officer would determine their fate.


    With these thoughts in mind, the investigators all lowered their heads, standing straight in hopes of making a good impression on the soon-to-arrive Interrogation Officer and to possibly sway their fortunes.


    And just as everyone was wrapped in their uneasy thoughts, the interrogation room''s door was opened by someone from the outside, and two people stepped in.


    Before the investigators could react, the young female detective quickly stood up and saluted, saying, "Hello, Officer!"


    Hearing this, Cao Dabiao and the others discreetly lifted their gaze, eager to see who had come to interrogate them.


    The first person they saw was the young woman who had brought them here. Her hair was slightly disheveled, her cheeks were flushed, and a shimmer of moisture was in her eyes as if she had just been through something.


    Trailing behind her, the Interrogation Officer in charge of their fates was... Qiu Tu, smiling.


    The moment they saw Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao and the others'' eyes widened.


    In that instant, they felt as though they were seeing their savior.


    Joy swirled within their chests.


    ---

 Chapter 71 Soaring Loyalty (7k for follow-up reading!)

    Qiu Tu looked at Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and their wide eyes, barely restrained yet still upturned lips, and smiled faintly.That was exactly the effect he wanted.


    Only when these detectives had given up all hope and could only pray that the interrogator would let them off easy, and then he made his entrance, could he elevate his status in their hearts to the highest degree and rapidly increase their loyalty.


    For this moment, Qiu Tu had even specifically reminded Liu Fuping to omit his name when announcing the order for the interrogation.


    And now, didn''t the effect seem quite good?


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu walked to the interrogation seat, sat down in the center position, and calmly swept his gaze over all the detectives present, capturing all their loyalty levels in his mind.


    [Cao Dabiao: 23+8]


    [Chen Feng: 42+6]


    [Ding Xiaoliu: 29+6]


    [Ding Xiaoqi: 13+6]


    [Zhu Huoyan: 31+5]


    [....]


    The numbers in front represent the detective''s loyalty levels before seeing Qiu Tu, while the numbers following represent the instant increase in their loyalty after Qiu Tu made his appearance.


    Generally speaking, most detectives'' original loyalty levels were not high. Apart from Chen Feng, whose loyalty exceeded 40 points, and three detectives like Zhu Huoyan who were over 30 points, most detectives had loyalty levels in the 20-30 range.


    This was within Qiu Tu''s expectations.


    After all, he had only been their superior for two days, there wasn''t much emotional connection, and he had also dragged them into the mess that was the Qin Family.


    Now that he was no longer their superior, there was no superior-subordinate relationship, and it was good enough that they didn''t hate him. Hence, it was quite normal for their loyalty to drop below 30 after just two days.


    Qiu Tu speculated: their loyalty didn''t drop below 20 probably because he had given them benefits before.


    Therefore, compared to the original loyalty levels, what Qiu Tu was more concerned about was the increase in their loyalty.


    An appearance that increased loyalty by 5-8 points let Qiu Tu know that his plan was working.


    He felt that as long as he made an effort, by manipulating their perceptions a few more times during the interrogation, he could swiftly raise their loyalty to a new level.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu continued to execute his plan.


    He tapped on Liu Fuping''s desk. The beautiful young woman gathered her hair, stood up understandingly, and then began to read out the document.


    The content of the document was simple; it listed the mistakes made by Cao Dabiao and others during the mission.


    These included not protecting the key person (Qin Shuman) safely, allowing an important suspect (Shen Lingshuang) to escape, failing the tasks assigned by superiors (obtaining evidence of the Qin Family''s crimes), embezzlement of public funds, among others...


    The more these charges were read out, the weirder the expressions of Cao Dabiao and others became.


    They couldn''t help feeling strange because although these charges were indeed related to them... it appeared that most were led by Qiu Tu himself, who was sitting in the center of the interrogation podium.


    And now, Qiu Tu sat at the interrogation podium, while they wore handcuffs?


    How could such a sharp contrast not make Cao Dabiao and the others feel bizarre?


    Of course, it was this very contrast that once again made Cao Dabiao "recognize" Qiu Tu''s background and power.


    After so many incidents, Qiu Tu was safe and sound, even in a position to interrogate them, he really was as favored by the Bureau Chief as he said.


    So, when Liu Fuping finished reading the charges and Qiu Tu slowly began to speak, they listened with utmost attention.


    That was when they heard Qiu Tu slowly say, "We''re all acquainted here, so I won''t beat around the bush."


    "Actually, I wasn''t initially in charge of this interrogation."


    "After all, I was involved in the mission, had been your superior, and should, by rights, recuse myself."


    "But then again... it''s precisely because I participated in the mission and understand everyone''s situation that I am the best candidate to preside over this case."


    "Therefore, I specifically went to the Bureau Chief and the Minister, and took over this internal review."


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu tapped Song Qing, who was writing vigorously, and coughed, "Don''t record what I just said."


    Upon hearing this, Song Qing paused for a moment, then tore off the half page of interrogation transcript she had just written, crumpled it into a ball, and threw it into the trash can.


    With a simple statement and command, Qiu Tu immediately left a deep impression on the group of detectives below.


    Those who had worked with him on a case knew that Qiu Tu was showcasing his power and giving them a tap on the shoulder as a warning.


    Qiu Tu not only told them that he had the support of Yan Chen and Jia Shu behind him but also demonstrated with a simple command that he could freely alter the records of the interrogation and decide their fate.


    Thus, all at once, before Qiu Tu, rose another wave of prompts indicating an increase in [loyalty].


    Qiu Tu glanced at them nonchalantly and then began the formal proceedings.


    His gaze turned first to Cao Dabiao.


    "Cao Dabiao," he called out.


    Hearing his name from Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao quickly put on an ingratiating face and stepped forward, "Here, Chief. I''m here."


    Qiu Tu looked down at the document in his hand and then said, "As a First Level Detective, you were the operational leader of this mission, as well as the leader of the Security Team."


    "Regarding your failure to protect key personnel, letting suspects escape, and embezzling public funds¡ªdo you have anything to say in your defense?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Cao Dabiao was momentarily stunned.


    To be honest, he indeed had a lot of grievances he wanted to dispute.


    For example, about letting suspects escape...


    He could swear to heaven! He never even saw the suspect, okay?!


    Qiu Tu did not hand it over to him during the transfer.


    It was only after he was arrested that he learned there was even a suspect within the Security Team.


    For instance, embezzling public funds. He indeed... embezzled a bit, um... some. But out of the 500 Silver Yuan of public funds, most were taken away by Qiu Tu. He only took 100 Silver Yuan.


    If someone else were conducting the trial, he might hesitate and speak out. But now that Qiu Tu is overseeing the trial, can he say it?


    He cannot...


    He knows that even if he truly drags Qiu Tu down with him, it won''t save himself; it would only offend Qiu Tu. So, it''s better to take all the blame, leave a good impression on Qiu Tu, and perhaps Qiu Tu might remember their former relationship and give him a hand.


    Thinking this, he gritted his teeth and managed a forced smile, saying, "I admit it, Chief."


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +6]


    Hearing his words and seeing the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu knew exactly what Cao Dabiao was thinking: He was starting to place his bets on him.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu looked deeply at him and smiled, "Detective Cao, won''t you think it over?"


    "Are you sure it was you who let the suspect escape? The public funds, you embezzled them?"


    Cao Dabiao was startled.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s mocking smile, a wave of silent complaints rose in his heart.


    He was convinced that Qiu Tu was testing whether he would truly not betray Qiu Tu; so, he bit his lip again and said, "Chief, it truly was me!"


    A look of disappointment crossed Qiu Tu''s face. He knocked on Song Qing''s record book again, asking her to stop.


    Then he said to Cao Dabiao, "Detective Cao, don''t feel pressured. This is just a normal internal investigation."


    "Let me share my thoughts first."


    He drank some water and said indifferently, "As members of the Security Team and the task force, your failure to accomplish the task given by the department is indeed very disappointing."


    "But nobody expected the Qin Family to suffer such a disaster on that day."


    "Master Qin Si set fire to the main house, throwing the entire Qin Family into chaos."


    "You all realized something was wrong and hurried to protect Miss Shuman." Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Only to find upon arriving at Miss Shuman''s residence, the detectives from the Special Service Department were knocked out and Miss Qin Shuman was taken away."


    "You followed the clues, intending to rescue her. But unexpectedly, you fell for a diversion tactic, and not only did you fail to rescue Miss Shuman, but your station was even attacked in the process."


    "You are indeed greatly negligent in this matter, but it is understandable."


    Hearing Qiu Tu recount the course of the case, the detectives present began to see new hope in their eyes.


    If Qiu Tu''s arrival had given them hope a moment ago, they now seemed to see the first light of dawn!


    At this moment, Cao Dabiao''s heart was filled with surprise, and he kept nodding, "Ah, yes, yes, you''re right, Chief!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +2]


    Upon hearing these words, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he scolded, "What do you mean by saying I''m right?"


    "What did I say?!"


    "Cao Dabiao! I warn you, don''t talk nonsense here!"


    Qiu Tu''s sudden change of demeanor startled Cao Dabiao, but he also quickly realized his improper wording could not only fail to save himself but also add to the evidence against him.


    Therefore, he hastily said, "Chief, I''m sorry, I misspoke. I''ve finally remembered what happened that day."


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +3]


    Seeing he understood his intention, Qiu Tu knocked on Song Qing''s hand and gave her a sign.


    Song Qing rolled her eyes and once more tore up the interrogation record just taken.


    Then while crumpling the record into a ball, she said to Cao Dabiao with annoyance, "Make sure you think it through this time before speaking! I''m tired of taking notes constantly!"


    Cao Dabiao hurriedly offered Song Qing an apologetic smile, nodding and bowing.


    Following Qiu Tu''s guidance, the record-taking went very smoothly.


    All the detectives insisted that the incident occurred suddenly, and they were too late to respond, leading to all the subsequent consequences.


    After the records were taken, Qiu Tu flipped through the pages of the file, then casually pulled out a few records, saying, "Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, the three of your records are wrong."


    "I remember Cao Dabiao saying that you two were on duty at the station guarding the suspect and the petty cash."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun were all stunned.


    They were not fools.


    According to the previous records, they were at most guilty of negligence, but now being specified as the guards of the suspect and petty cash meant dereliction of duty, facing harsher punishment.


    But before they could refute,


    Qiu Tu pulled out several more records and said, "And Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, Jiao Ming, weren''t you all dispatched to investigate a case that day?"


    "How did you end up going to rescue Miss Shuman?"


    "Make the corrections, all of you correct it."


    If it had only been Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun''s records being altered for the worse, many detectives might not have thought too much of it.


    But when the records of Chen Feng and others were directly changed toward exoneration, many detectives started to sense something was amiss.


    They looked at each other, then reflected on the situation, only to suddenly realize... Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, and the others seemed to be the ones who had been speaking up for Qiu Tu in the Guard Room these past few days.

 Chapter 72 Grateful Detective (7k for follow-up reads!)

    Yet Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun were dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, among those who had mocked him.With this in mind, they couldn''t help but look towards Qiu Tu. And then... they saw the calm and deep eyes of Qiu Tu, serene as the depths of the sea, as if he could see through people''s hearts...


    In that moment, a chill ran down the spine of all the investigators. Sweat formed on the foreheads of Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, and the others.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also spoke indifferently, "If there is anything incorrect in the record, everyone is free to mention it."


    "The great fire at the Qin family only burned for two days, and most of the traces can still be clearly investigated."


    "If the testimonies of everyone here do not match up, I can apply to the higher-ups for permission to conduct an investigation in the Qin family residence."


    Hearing the threatening undertone in Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and the others no longer misunderstood Qiu Tu''s intentions.


    Right now, Qiu Tu only knew that they held dissatisfaction towards him, so he was giving them a warning.


    But if one were to not accept this goodwill gesture, Qiu Tu would directly determine their guilt.


    At that moment, the three of them hurriedly said, "No problem, Chief."


    [Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, Loyalty +8]


    [Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, Jiao Ming, Loyalty +10]


    The loyalty of the other investigators also changed differently.


    Once everyone''s guilt was determined, the next steps were to sign and fingerprint the documents.


    As each name was signed and each fingerprint was pressed, the entire interrogation finally concluded.


    After collecting the interrogation records, Qiu Tu slowly said to the 13 investigators, "Everyone can rest assured, with your testimonies and the traces left at the scene, the results of everyone''s review will come out quickly."


    "By then, we should all still be colleagues."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s decisive words, the investigators present could no longer contain the joy in their hearts, each of them looking at Qiu Tu excitedly.


    They had waited so many days, agonizing for so long. They had cooperated with Qiu Tu precisely for this outcome, hadn''t they?


    In today''s Xinjie City, to be a formal investigator, especially a political investigator, was to have a truly formidable presence.


    Not only was the salary generous, but one could also protect family, neighbors. They could walk with their backs straight and heads held high.


    Therefore, having worked so hard to become investigators, how could they bear to take off their uniforms?


    Seeing the excitement among the investigators, Qiu Tu smiled and asked in a timely manner, "I have a case to work on next. Would any of you be interested?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the group of investigators, freshly favored by Qiu Tu''s benevolence, eagerly raised their hands in unison, "Chief! I can!" "Chief! Count me in!" "Chief, I want to continue working on cases under you!"


    Even the reserved Chen Feng slowly raised his hand with a determined gaze.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also said with a smile, "Alright, I''ll take note of everyone''s names then."


    "See you this afternoon."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu turned to Liu Fuping and said, "Let the operations team come to take them back."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping gave him a coquettish roll of her eyes and then got up, swaying her hips as she went to find the operations team''s investigators.


    Thus, the 13 investigators, lined up in a queue, were once again led away from the interrogation room.


    However, just as Cao Dabiao, the last in line, was about to leave the interrogation room, Qiu Tu suddenly called out to him, "Big Biao, wait a moment."


    Cao Dabiao stopped in his tracks, looking bewilderedly at Qiu Tu. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When everyone else had left and only Cao Dabiao was left in the room, Qiu Tu lit a cigarette and quietly smoked as he looked at Cao Dabiao.


    At first, Cao Dabiao was bewildered as he watched Qiu Tu, but slowly, the sweat on his forehead began to accumulate, clearly guessing why Qiu Tu had kept him back.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu finally stopped beating around the bush. He flicked the ash off his cigarette and said softly, "I''ve heard that these past days, you''ve had some grievances about me?"


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao''s legs went weak, and he almost knelt to the ground.


    Bowing, he said to Qiu Tu with an awkward laugh, "Chi-Chief, what I said was unintentional."


    "Please be magnanimous and don''t take it to heart."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said indifferently, "But you were in charge of the operation this time, with much responsibility. There is too much guilt associated with it. I can''t fully absolve you."


    "So, a demotion by one level it is."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s face turned instantly pale.


    A demotion by one level might not seem much, but a First Level Detective has command rights and many special privileges that are vastly different from a Second-Class Investigator.


    Thus, being demoted to a Second-Class Investigator would greatly reduce Cao Dabiao''s identity and status within the Political Department.


    Cao Dabiao wanted to flatter Qiu Tu further, but he stopped himself as the words reached his lips, knowing this was Qiu Tu''s reprimand. Speaking ill of Qiu Tu in the past few days warranted a lesson, and it was entirely justified.


    Moreover, the fact that Qiu Tu had spared him was already something to be immensely grateful for.


    With this in mind, his attitude suddenly became much more peaceful. He gave Qiu Tu a deep bow and then said, "Thank you, Chief. I''m already very grateful that you would keep me in the Investigation Bureau."


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +5, Current Loyalty: 56]


    Seeing his reaction, Qiu Tu exhaled a ring of smoke, his face carrying a leisurely and free-spirited demeanor, "Big Biao, I''m pleased that you''ve come to understand."


    "As a man, don''t dwell on the immediate gains and losses."


    With that, he asked, "Do you know about the garden rooftop on the 9th floor?"


    Cao Dabiao was stunned for a moment, then shook his head.


    A nostalgic look crossed Qiu Tu''s face as he said, "That''s a place reserved for section chiefs and above, the middle-level officers."


    "There, you can drink tea, eat desserts, and look down at the whole of Xinjie City."


    "You can also have the waitstaff clean your uniform, prepare dinner, and even go out to buy anything you want..."


    Cao Dabiao was drawn into the scene by Qiu Tu''s description, looking somewhat mesmerized as if he could really see the garden rooftop.


    Then at that moment, Qiu Tu continued, "Big Biao, do you know of the rest room on the 12th floor?"


    Cao Dabiao again shook his head blankly.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "That''s a privilege you attain after becoming a division head."


    "Once you become a division head, you''ll...."


    Qiu Tu went on to describe to Cao Dabiao the lavish lifestyle and immense privileges of section chiefs, division heads, and even the Bureau Chief.


    Overall... it was simply passing on to Cao Dabiao, with a bit of added color, what Jia Shu had said to him today.


    This immediately beguiled Cao Dabiao, a First Level Detective unused to worldly affairs, leaving him absolutely wide-eyed.


    And in the end, Qiu Tu also gave him a meaningful look and repeated the brainwashing lines that Jia Shu had fed him, "Big Biao, achieving all this is actually very simple. That is, you must follow the right person."


    "Only by following the right person can you reach the pinnacle step by step."


    It must be said, Jia Shu''s brainwashing skills were indeed effective; as soon as Qiu Tu recited the spiel, Cao Dabiao''s face flushed red, and his eyes turned crimson with excitement!


    He firmly declared his stance to Qiu Tu, "Chief! Rest assured!"


    "From now on, I am your soldier! Wherever you point, I will strike!"


    [Cao Dabiao loyalty +8, current loyalty: 64]


    Seeing Cao Dabiao''s excited expression and his rapidly increasing loyalty, Qiu Tu''s face was filled with smiles.


    Indeed, his guess was not wrong....


    When you hold someone''s fate in your hands, when you can greatly influence someone''s future, it becomes exceptionally easy to raise their loyalty....


    ...


    The duty officers were instructed to escort Cao Dabiao back to the Guard Room. Qiu Tu then, with the interrogation records and documents in hand, went to find Jia Shu for his signature.


    Although Jia Shu was a sly fox, his credibility was still not bad.


    Having promised Qiu Tu that he would handle this matter, he really didn''t even look at the report before signing it.


    And since these investigators were all under his command, Qiu Tu was lenient with their punishments.


    A warning was noted on investigators like Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan who held high loyalty towards Qiu Tu¡ªlight treatment, fined three drinks.


    For Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and others who had previously been dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, the penalties were heavier: a major demerit and three months'' salary docked.


    The rest of the investigators had a demerit recorded and one month''s salary docked.


    As for Cao Dabiao....


    Actually, Qiu Tu had originally intended to teach him a lesson.


    But then he saw how quickly his loyalty was rising. Coupled with the fact that he was the only First Level Detective under him, after much deliberation, Qiu Tu still decided not to demote him in the end.


    He merely recorded a major demerit against him, docked three months'' salary, and suspended his command authority temporarily.


    But no matter what, he managed to keep his position as a First Level Detective.


    So, when this punishment was announced in the Guard Room, the whole place erupted!


    And when he heard that he had retained his position¡ªalready having resigned himself to a demotion¡ªCao Dabiao was overjoyed to tears, embracing Little Liu tightly and patting him with all his might several times, nearly knocking Little Liu out.


    This naturally allowed Qiu Tu to harvest another wave of loyalty.


    Following Qiu Tu''s series of twists + surprises, he firmly solidified his position in the hearts of those investigators who were already loyally inclined towards him.


    The loyalty of this group of investigators also generally reached over fifty points each, making their hearts ready to be harnessed...


    However, by this time, Qiu Tu''s attention had long since shifted away from this group of investigators.


    His "Chain Plan" was far from over.


    Upon leaving Jia Shu''s office, Qiu Tu had only walked a few steps when Liu Fuping pulled him into an empty conference room.


    Pulled into the conference room, Qiu Tu was far from panicked; instead, he confidently embraced the beautiful woman before him, then softly asked, "Have you done everything you''ve been told to do?"


    Liu Fuping rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, coquettishly saying, "It''s all done~~ Chief."


    "But, are you sure this won''t draw attention from higher-ups?"


    Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then dismissively replied, "Even if I did nothing, wouldn''t the higher-ups still pay attention to me?"


    "Besides, I haven''t really done anything, just established my image in front of all the junior investigators."


    "Think about it. Once most investigators know that by following me, not only can I get them promotions and raises, but I can also protect them. Once this image is established, it will be much more convenient for me to do certain things later on."


    At these words, Liu Fuping laughed and said, "But if something happens, can you really protect them?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled "heh heh" twice, "Whether I can protect them is another matter."


    "Image, you understand? It''s not necessarily real."


    Liu Fuping gave him an eye-roll, "Aren''t you the clever one?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and then soberly added, "Moreover, I''m doing this to give Cao Dabiao and their little group a sense of cohesion and honor."


    "This way, they''ll be even more dedicated in investigating cases for me."


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping blinked curiously and asked, "It feels like you place great importance on them? And you seem eager for them to be involved in the investigation of the female spy''s death."


    Upon saying this, she hesitated, then inquired, "Why? Is there something special about them?"


    Upon hearing this, a hint of amusement glinted in Qiu Tu''s eyes as he replied, "They do have something special about them."


    With that, he paused, "You forgot, they have been locked in the Guard Room from dawn to dusk these past several days."


    "And Vice President Tian''s mistress... died right next to them."


    "Having them investigate this case might just bring some unexpected surprises, no?"


    At these words, realization dawned on Liu Fuping''s face....


    .....


    After leaving the Guard Room and collecting their belongings, Cao Dabiao and others went to report back to the Action Division and fill out their absence forms.


    They had expected that, after spending time in the Guard Room and receiving a disciplinary action, their colleagues would scoff and ridicule them.


    But what happened was beyond their expectations.


    The record keepers of the Action Division not only processed their paperwork with beaming smiles but even the other investigators watched them with envious eyes....


    -------


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 Chapter 73 Kill Several Birds with One Stone (Seeking 7k for Readthroughs!)

    ```This suddenly left Cao Dabiao and the others a bit confused.


    What? Is it now an honor to be brought into the Guard Room?


    I was squatting in the Guard Room for two days, and now I''m a hero of the department?


    However, although they were incredibly puzzled inside, they still pretended to be calm on the surface.


    It was not until they had finished the procedures and Cao Dabiao and the others were preparing to leave that a familiar First Level Detective quietly pulled Cao Dabiao aside and asked softly, "Brother Biao, I heard you guys have found a big backer?"


    Cao Dabiao looked bewildered at the familiar First Level Detective.


    The detective rolled his eyes at him, "Are you still putting on an act with me? The news about you guys has spread everywhere."


    Hearing the detective''s words scratched at Cao Dabiao''s heart like a cat''s claws.


    He felt as if the whole world knew about his situation, yet he himself was the only one out of the loop!


    With this thought, he asked half-pretentiously and half-probingly, "Which matter are you referring to?"


    The detective looked at Cao Dabiao with surprise and exclaimed, "Oh, there are that many issues?"


    But after exclaiming, he still explained in a low voice, "It''s about Chief Qiu protecting you guys, that matter."


    He whispered, "Let me tell you, now both the Political Department and the Special Service Department are abuzz with the news."


    "Chief Qiu has connections, brains, and loyalty, but most importantly, he protects his own."


    "You guys just followed him for two days, and when he knew you were implicated, without a second thought, he went to the Bureau Chief and the Minister, requesting to review your case."


    "And to everyone''s surprise, the Bureau Chief and the Minister actually agreed to his request. They really let him review your case."


    "Actually, at that point, everyone was just waiting to see a joke."


    "After all, the Special Service Department team that carried out the mission with you had already gotten their punishment. All the detectives involved in the operation were demoted one rank, suspended half a year''s pay, and received a major demerit."


    "The leading First Level Detective was even temporarily suspended for incompetence and sent home for reflection."


    "Even Fang Ming from the Special Service Department, who had an argument with you, received a warning."


    "With such a punishment standard in the Special Service Department, there''s no way your team''s punishment would be much lighter since you carried out the same mission."


    "Who would have thought, Chief Qiu actually took a big risk and managed to get all of you off the hook!"


    "Not just that, the Minister''s side actually approved it!"


    Hearing the detective''s words, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the rest also showed faces of astonishment.


    They, who had been locked up in the Guard Room for two days, had no idea about the punishment results of the Special Service Department.


    Although they guessed theirs wouldn''t be as light, they really hadn''t expected it to be so harsh.


    Teams that carried out the same mission, yet they were treated leniently just because they had Qiu Tu''s protection; the Special Service Department, without anyone to protect them, suffered such a miserable fate?


    In such a stark contrast, Qiu Tu''s role became even more evident, and they realized how much pressure Qiu Tu had to withstand to protect them!


    At this moment, the usually reserved Chen Feng also focused on the key point of the incident. He inquired, "So, regarding our punishment, the Special Service Department didn''t raise any objections?"


    Hearing Chen Feng''s words, the detective smirked and said, "How could there not be objections?"


    He continued, "Do you know how this all came out?"


    "It started because the Special Service Department disapproved of your punishment decision and made a fuss."


    "Then, the detectives from various departments went to watch the drama, and that''s when we learned about you being saved by Chief Qiu''s efforts."


    Having said that, he couldn''t help but feel a little emotional, "Ah, you guys are really lucky. You met a boss who protects his own and has a bright future. Such a big issue casually brushed aside."


    "I heard he has now pulled you guys into a new investigative team?"


    "I think your careers are boundless from now on!"


    After the detective finished explaining the whole story, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the other detectives exchanged looks. They were feeling rather complex emotions at the moment.


    To be honest, it was only until now that they truly understood how much Qiu Tu had "sacrificed" for them, how much pressure he had endured!


    Meanwhile, amidst the envious glances of the other detectives, they inexplicably felt a sense of collective pride.


    As if they were a cut above those ordinary detectives.


    For a moment, they all stood a little straighter....


    ...


    [Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu.....Loyalty +7]


    Meanwhile, in the empty conference room of the Interrogation Section,


    Qiu Tu looked at the prompt that popped up before him and smiled. He knew his arrangements had taken effect.


    Indeed, the commotion from the Special Service Department was not an unforeseen event but Qiu Tu''s design.


    Before the interrogation, he had called his former teammate Fang Ming from the Special Service Department, revealing his intent to go easy on Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the others.


    With Fang Ming''s personality, he certainly wouldn''t gossip about it, but Qiu Tu purposely said, "There''s no need to keep this matter secret."


    And so.....the astute Fang Ming immediately understood Qiu Tu''s implication.


    Although he couldn''t figure out Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal, he was still willing to help out, seeing it as a simple favor that could earn him Qiu Tu''s gratitude.


    Therefore, right after Qiu Tu''s interrogation concluded, the news that Cao Dabiao and the others would face light punishment rapidly spread throughout the Special Service Department.


    ```


    Afterward, it was all thanks to Liu Fuping''s efforts.


    Before the interrogation, Qiu Tu pulled her aside into an empty office and asked her for a favor.


    He had asked her to find a few operatives from the Political Department to provoke those from the Special Service Department after the sentencing results were settled.


    The Special Service Department was an authoritative department, no weaker than the Political Department. Coupled with having the strongest combat power and the most staff of all the departments, they naturally couldn''t swallow this affront, so things escalated as expected.


    When the two ace departments of the Investigation Bureau clashed, it naturally caught the attention of the entire bureau.


    As a result, the unequal sentencing of people like Cao Dabiao and the operatives from the Special Service Department became widely talked about. In turn, Qiu Tu''s image as someone who was loyal and protected his own quietly took shape.


    This was why, after Cao Dabiao and others were released from the guard room, they received so many envious looks. To put it plainly, it was all Qiu Tu''s scheming.


    As for whether this game would backfire, and the Special Service Department would truly start fighting with the Political Department, affecting Qiu Tu himself?


    Firstly, Qiu Tu didn''t care. If it really did affect him and he was punished from above, he would happily take the chance to go home for reflection, passing that hot potato of a case to someone else.


    Secondly, he didn''t think it would happen.


    Because... during his time in this world, he had already figured out the real power structure of Xinjie City.


    Besides the three obvious power institutions of Xinjie City, there was actually a hidden power structure: the native residents of Xinjie and the middle and upper classes who came down from the Sanctuary.


    Based on what Qiu Tu had learned and the information obtained from Qin Shuman and Shen Lingshuang,


    he found that even though there was competition among the middle and upper classes who came down from the Sanctuary, they were very united. They saw each other as their own kind, while the original residents of Xinjie were considered a tier below them, refugees from the Cataclysm.


    This sense of superiority was mostly well concealed. It only occasionally showed in their choice of words or when handling certain matters.


    Therefore, the dissatisfaction of the lower-level operatives would not affect the relationship and attitudes of the middle and upper levels of the two departments.


    Moreover, since Yan Chen had approved this move, with the endorsement of the big boss of the Investigation Bureau behind him, what did Qiu Tu have to fear? He was only afraid that the situation wouldn''t blow up enough.


    After all, the bigger the fuss, the more his fame would grow, and the more widely the news of him forming an investigation team would spread, hence building his desired momentum!


    Having recalled his entire plan, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality.


    He glanced at the "peach" in his hand, whose shape kept changing, and then at Liu Fuping, whose eyes were starting to well up with tears. He coughed and said, "Sorry, I got carried away."


    Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red as she swatted Qiu Tu''s hand away, took a deep breath, and said indignantly, "Commander, that''s a bit too ''carried away,'' don''t you think~~"


    "Just before the interrogation, dragging someone into an empty office and accidentally grabbing on, and now this!"


    "How is someone supposed to face others after this?"


    Upon saying that, Liu Fuping playfully suggested, "Otherwise, I should just marry you. That way you can do whatever you want~~"


    At her words, Qiu Tu quickly withdrew his hand and said with a serious expression, "Sister Liu, it''s fine to play around, but don''t joke about a lifetime commitment! We''re all in this line of work; you can''t harbor other intentions toward me!" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping spat out in annoyance, "Shameless!"


    However, being a woman who had been married before, Liu Fuping quickly adjusted her emotions after her playful banter with Qiu Tu.


    While she tidied up her disheveled clothes, she asked, "Qiu Tu, now that the case of ''Yin Caimei''s Death'' is in your hands, do you have any plans?"


    A hint of hesitation appeared on her face as she cautiously said, "I met with the team members last night and probed them in a roundabout way. It seems... none of them are likely to be the murderer."


    Qiu Tu, however, seemed unconcerned. He stretched lazily and said with a smile, "Plans?"


    "If a workman wishes to do his work well, he must first sharpen his tools!"


    "My plan is to first apply for some investigation funds, then request some investigation equipment, and then take it slow."


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu oddly.


    She couldn''t shake the feeling... that Qiu Tu''s focus on the investigation seemed like a front, that his real goal was to take advantage of it to acquire funds and equipment... or even set himself up for a convenient escape if all else failed.


    But since Qiu Tu was her superior and in charge of the investigation team, she had no choice but to follow his orders.


    So after she and Qiu Tu stepped out, she began drafting several applications as per Qiu Tu''s instructions.


    This time, the investigation team assembled by Qiu Tu was large, including Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Wang Xi, the two Special Service operatives, as well as Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and 13 other detectives.


    His motive was simple: regardless of how the case progressed, he intended to build momentum first, test the waters, then use the opportunity to gather a wave of funds and equipment¡ªand if things went south, it would also be easier to flee....


    Soon, Liu Fuping completed the personnel application form and the equipment application form as per Qiu Tu''s requirements.


    After Qiu Tu quickly reviewed them and found no issues, he went to get them signed.


    The personnel application form was easily approved. With the backing of Jia Shu and Yan Chen, both the Interrogation Section and the Action Section gave the green light. From this moment, Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Wang Xi, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the others became his subordinates.


    While the personnel form sailed through smoothly, the equipment application form hit a snag....


    ...


    Administrative Office, Logistical Equipment Section.


    Chief Huang looked at the long list of Cataclysmic treasures Qiu Tu had requested, then took a long glance at Qiu Tu, recognizing this division head who had become famous throughout the Investigation Bureau today.


    After a moment''s hesitation, with a contemplative look, he came back to his senses, did not outright reject the request, but said with a smile, "Chief Qiu, please wait a moment. I will inquire with the office head."


    Having said that, he picked up the phone on the desk and called Secretary Bai....

 Chapter 74 The Pass to High Society (7k for Follow-up Reading!)

    Meanwhile, as the head of the Logistics and Equipment Department was calling Secretary Bai.Secretary Bai stood in his own office, staring blankly out the window at the scenery.


    His hand was clenched tightly, filled with sweat.


    Because only he knew what he had just experienced...


    This morning, after meeting with Qiu Tu but receiving a cold shoulder, Secretary Bai felt something was amiss.


    Having spent a month in close quarters with Qiu Tu, and having personally mentored him, he knew Qiu Tu extremely well.


    The man had the cunning, calculations, and shrewdness that most possessed in the Cataclysmic era. Yet, he also had the kindness, enthusiasm, and gratitude that many lacked.


    So, after taking such a huge risk to tip him off the night before, he couldn''t have treated Secretary Bai with such coldness!


    Hence, if he had suddenly turned so cold, it must mean that something had gone wrong!


    And Qiu Tu''s subtle shake of the head in the elevator later on confirmed Secretary Bai''s guess.


    At the time, Secretary Bai had not been able to figure out what exactly had happened. But his trust in Qiu Tu made him go along with it, cursing Qiu Tu a few times to continue the act.


    Later, when he returned to his office to work, Secretary Bai had been pondering Qiu Tu''s abnormal behavior that morning, yet he couldn''t grasp the reasons.


    All of this was until he unintentionally heard about a change in Qiu Tu after the interrogation of Cao Dabiao''s team of political investigators.


    When he learned that Jia Shu had given Qiu Tu such a great opportunity, Secretary Bai finally sensed something was wrong.


    Being the right-hand man of Yan Chen, he knew how much prejudice Jia Shu had against Qiu Tu.


    How could Jia Shu be so kind as to give this kind of opportunity to win people''s hearts to Qiu Tu? It was 100% instructed by Yan Chen!


    But why would Yan Chen give such an opportunity to Qiu Tu?


    Following this train of thought, Secretary Bai finally pieced together the truth of the whole matter and finally guessed the message Qiu Tu was trying to convey: he had been exposed! He had aroused Yan Chen''s suspicions!


    After guessing the message Qiu Tu had passed on, Secretary Bai also instantly understood why Qiu Tu deliberately distanced himself in public that morning.


    Qiu Tu was not self-preserving, but was putting on a show for others to see, letting others know that they had fallen out, giving Secretary Bai a chance to explain the whistleblower call from last night.


    Seeing the situation clearly, Secretary Bai, who knew Yan Chen''s personality well, immediately took action and made amends to Yan Chen.


    He didn''t blatantly go to explain the call to Qiu Tu from the night before but started speaking ill of Qiu Tu indirectly in front of Yan Chen.


    This indeed aroused Yan Chen''s curiosity.


    Afterward, in Yan Chen''s casual inquiry, Secretary Bai still didn''t explain but deliberately spoke ambiguously.


    He knew that no matter how much he explained, it would not be as effective as letting Yan Chen find out on his own.


    As expected, it wasn''t long before he saw political investigators from the Political Department coming to see Yan Chen, presumably to report on the conflict he had with Qiu Tu that morning.


    Although it was a minor incident, it was enough to provoke Yan Chen''s imagination, causing doubt about the real content of last night''s call, thereby reducing Secretary Bai''s own suspicion of betrayal.


    However, Secretary Bai also knew that with such a significant mistake and Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, it would be difficult to regain trust easily.


    But... as long as he could stall, Secretary Bai would always have the chance to mend the rift.


    And all of this was brought to Secretary Bai by Qiu Tu!


    So, after coming out of Yan Chen''s office and taking a deep breath, Secretary Bai also felt that he had indeed made the right judgment about Qiu Tu.


    He wasn''t the kind of opportunist who would abandon an alliance in times of peril but rather someone who would actively think of ways to help him out of trouble and plan everything for him!


    After frantically making all the necessary remedies, Secretary Bai stood by the window for more than ten minutes, scared, with sweaty palms...


    .....


    "Ring ring ring"


    Hearing the crisp ringing of the desk phone, Secretary Bai slowly returned to his senses from his thoughts.


    He took a deep breath, exhaled heavily, then turned around, walked to the desk, and picked up the handset.


    As he lifted the handset, it transmitted the voice of his subordinate, the head of Logistics, "Chief, this is Huang Hong."


    Secretary Bai uttered a grunt and inquired, "What is it, Chief Huang?"


    The Logistics chief said with a chuckle, "It''s like this, Chief Qiu from the Interrogation Section came over with an equipment request form, and he wants to apply for a batch... uh, a batch of equipment."


    "But... these are kind of special, I''m not sure how he knows about them, and I''m not sure whether we should give them to him."


    "Also... his approach seems to not follow the procedures."


    "Chief Qiu?" Upon hearing the words of the Logistics chief, Secretary Bai froze for a moment, somewhat guessing Qiu Tu''s purpose.


    He said, "Read out the list of equipment to me."


    Chief Huang read from the request form, "''Mist Index Book, Intangible Distortion Sensor, Void Dimension Surveyor, Retrospective Locator''..."


    Hearing one Cataclysm Prop name after another from Chief Huang, Secretary Bai smiled silently.


    Shortly after, he barked, "That''s enough, give the phone to Qiu Tu!"


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, the Logistics chief quickly gave the phone to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the phone, and Secretary Bai''s roar came through the handset, "Qiu Tu, have you lost your mind? Listing these items in the report!"


    "Is this how Jia Shu taught you?!"


    "Do you not know that matters of Catastrophe Power are not to be known by the common people! It''s only because Chief Huang is a manager from the Sanctuary that if he were an ordinary person, do you realize you would have leaked secrets already!"


    "I''m telling you! This is no small matter, and I will definitely report it to the Bureau Chief!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly said, "Sorry, sir. This is my first time dealing with such a case, and I didn''t know I couldn''t file the report this way."


    "Sorry, truly sorry."


    The handset''s soundproofing wasn''t good, so Chief Huang also heard Secretary Bai''s roar.


    He laughed awkwardly, then stepped aside to the water cooler to get water, leaving Qiu Tu to save face.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu cleared his throat softly.


    On the other end of the phone, Secretary Bai immediately understood Qiu Tu''s intention.


    He softly "hmm..." in response.


    Another second passed before Secretary Bai spoke up again, loudly, "You don''t know the procedure, and you didn''t think to ask?"


    "Now, take this form to your minister for approval!"


    "Those Cataclysmic treasures will be granted to you through a special process!"


    With that, Secretary Bai hung up the phone with a "snap."


    Qiu Tu, holding the phone, showed an awkward expression to Chief Huang and said, "Sorry for the trouble, Chief Huang."


    "Secretary Bai said I followed the wrong procedure, I''ll go back and start over."


    Chief Huang smiled and shook his head, "No worries. It''s all understandable."


    "After all, cases like this are special, and it''s normal to be a bit flustered the first time."


    After saying that, he put down his cup and gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "You know, Qiu Tu, we''ve met quite a few times."


    "Back when you were working in the Administrative Office, I could tell you were different, destined to soar."


    "And look, it hasn''t been long, and you''re already a Deputy Staff Chief."


    After saying that, he smiled, "You came from the Administrative Office, so I''m somewhat like your kin."


    "So, when you''re free, let''s communicate and exchange more."


    Qiu Tu, hearing this, knew he was receiving positive feedback for the image he had crafted at the Investigation Bureau, so he climbed up the pole that was offered, "No problem, Brother Huang."


    "Actually, I''ve been wanting to get in touch with you more, but... I thought you were busy, so I didn''t dare to disturb you."


    "Now that you''ve mentioned it, just name the time, and I''ll be there, even if it means braving the storm of knives."


    Seeing how readily Qiu Tu took the bait, a glint appeared in Chief Huang''s eyes, and after a moment''s thought, he said with a smile, "Why put off until tomorrow what can be done today? How about this weekend?"


    "Let''s go to Emerald Fort together and watch a few horse races? It''s an entertainment passed down from the Sanctuary. Many influential figures from Xinjie City participate."


    "Big merchants from Xinjie City Chamber of Commerce, committee members from City Hall, directors, military officers, and chiefs and deputies from our Investigation Bureau will all be there."


    At this point, he paused and gave a knowing look that all men understand, "And in the evening, I''ll take you, my dear brother, to broaden your horizons."


    "Let me tell you, since Xinjie City has been marked as a Planning Area, there are still plenty of fun things to do."


    Hearing Chief Huang''s words, Qiu Tu immediately responded with a laugh, "Then thank you, Brother Huang! I''ll definitely keep the appointment!"


    Chief Huang smiled, and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder again...


    .....


    After leaving the Logistics and Equipment Section, Qiu Tu contemplated what had just happened there.


    He had deliberately listed some Cataclysm Props on the application form and came to the Logistics Section to request them, mainly to have a call with Secretary Bai.


    After last night''s attempt to startle the snake, he and Secretary Bai were sure to be under surveillance and wiretapping by Jia Shu.


    The two couldn''t meet, communicate, or have any contact whatsoever.


    However, he needed to be sure that Secretary Bai had understood the message he sent and whether any remedial action had been taken.


    Their safety depended on it.


    Now that he had received a positive response from Secretary Bai, he felt relieved.


    Secondly, there was the unexpected joy from Chief Huang...


    As a weaker department within the Investigation Bureau, the Administrative Office didn''t have much power and didn''t rank high within the Bureau.


    However, the Logistics Section was an exception within the Administrative Office.


    In charge of all the logistics and equipment for the Investigation Bureau, the Logistics Section was one of the most coveted positions.


    Procurement of equipment, disposal of retired equipment, daily wear and tear of equipment... each aspect could entice numerous forces.


    Therefore, Chief Huang was a sought-after figure by various department heads and factions.


    And Qiu Tu was no exception.


    He wanted to handle the case of Yin Caimei and connect with various departments from Xinjie City Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, and the military to understand their true views on the Yin Caimei case, and Chief Huang''s connections were the most convenient for this.


    In plain terms, Chief Huang was the most suitable "upstairs pass" accessible to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu had two objectives in visiting the Logistics Section today, using the application for Cataclysm Props as an opportunity. Apart from briefly communicating with Secretary Bai, it was to let Chief Huang know he was already privy to highly confidential treasures and considered "one of their own," recognized by Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    He originally intended to hint at this to Chief Huang and then bide his time for the next move. Little did he expect that his efforts to build an image at the Investigation Bureau today would result in such a surprising development.


    ''Emerald Fort? Horse racing?''


    ''Big merchants from Xinjie Chamber of Commerce? Committee members, directors from City Hall? Military officers?''


    ''And special activities in the evening?''


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked forward to the weekend with increased anticipation...


    [10 days (Yin Caimei case closure deadline)]


    ...


    With the application form in hand, he returned to the Political Department.


    Qiu Tu went straight to Jia Shu''s office.


    He knocked on the door and Jia Shu''s voice came from inside, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu entered and saw Jia Shu studying a document intently.


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Sir! I''ve come to submit the equipment application form!"


    "Equipment application form?" Jia Shu looked up, giving Qiu Tu a puzzled glance with his characteristic fake smile.


    Qiu Tu walked over and placed the form on Jia Shu''s desk. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jia Shu picked up the document with a peculiar look, glanced over it, and the next second, his eyes bulged and he struggled to maintain his facade of a smile.


    He read through the document quickly, then looked up with a half-smile at Qiu Tu, and asked,


    "Qiu Tu... do you know what you''re applying for with these items?"


    ----

 Chapter 75 Somethings Off About This Satisfaction (7k For Follow-Up Reads!)

    Qiu Tu certainly knew what he was applying for."Mist Index Book," "Intangible Distortion Sensor," "Void Dimension Surveyor," "Retrospective Locator"....


    Despite the grandiose names of these Cataclysmic treasures, in reality... they were all standard-issue Cataclysmic treasures from the Sanctuary.


    And the function of these Cataclysmic treasures was simple: they were to investigate clues for cases or traces of Catastrophe Power through various methods.


    For example, the "Mist Index Book" could generate an unusual fog within a certain area, and this fog would reveal all traces of Catastrophe Power residue in the vicinity.


    The "Intangible Distortion Sensor" was for sensing distortions generated by the intersection of the Boundless Heart Sea and the real world, which were typically caused by Cataclysmic abilities, allowing this Catalysmic treasure to analyze the level and type of Cataclysmic ability.


    The other two Cataclysmic items had similar functions, differing only slightly in their manufacturing materials and subsidiary features.


    Why did Qiu Tu know about these Cataclysmic treasures?


    Simple, Qin Shuman had explained them to him the night before.


    According to Qin Shuman, the standard-issue Cataclysmic treasures commonly used to investigate supernatural cases in the Sanctuary were these four types.


    The Security Department brought two sets when they came down from the Sanctuary, but how many the Political Department had, she didn''t know.


    Her guess was: they definitely had some, but not all.


    Therefore, when applying for materials, Qiu Tu simply wrote down all the treasures, intending to see how many he could get approved.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu regained his senses, looked toward Jia Shu, and replied, "Chief. I am aware. These are treasures used to investigate traces of Catastrophe Power."


    Upon hearing this, Jia Shu put down his pen, crossed his hands beneath his chin, and looked at Qiu Tu with an exploratory gaze.


    His eyes, narrow and profound behind his glasses, seemed as if they could see right through one''s heart.


    After staring for a full two seconds, his face suddenly brightened with a faint smile, and he said, "I remember telling you that as long as you close this case successfully, it would be sufficient."


    "So... give me a reason?"


    If Qiu Tu dared to test the waters with the application, he naturally had an excuse ready.


    He looked at Jia Shu and answered earnestly, "Chief, if we''re putting on an act, we should do it thoroughly. If it were an ordinary murder case, we could simply frame an offender and fabricate some evidence to close the case. But this is a major case that so many eyes in Xinjie City are watching."


    "I''m aware of Cataclysmic abilities, Cataclysmic treasures. Surely those important figures can''t be ignorant of them, can they?"


    "If I just conducted a superficial investigation for a few days, without even using the treasures to detect traces of Cataclysm, and close the case as an ordinary murder, do you think they would believe it?"


    "Wouldn''t this approach be too slipshod?"


    Seeing that Jia Shu''s eyes showed contemplation, Qiu Tu continued, "Actually, it makes no difference to me. After all, I''m just a small figure."


    "What I''m worried about is that if this matter is handled too carelessly, the Municipal Committee or the military might seize upon it."


    "At that time, it could cause trouble for you and the Bureau Chief..."


    Toward the end, Qiu Tu''s voice grew fainter, almost inaudible....


    The office slowly became quiet.


    Jia Shu silently pondered....


    After a moment, his face revealed a sardonic smile, then he picked up the pen and made a few changes to the document before saying, "You make a good point. Let''s go with your plan."


    After making the changes, Jia Shu signed the document and handed it to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu quickly stepped forward, took the document with both hands, then cast an imperceptible glance over it: Of the four Cataclysmic items, only the "Mist Index Book" was left, and it also noted the borrowing time: one week.


    "By the way, Qiu Tu. Where did you learn so much about these Cataclysmic treasures?"


    Just as Qiu Tu received the document and was slightly distracted, Jia Shu suddenly asked.


    At the sound of his words, Qiu Tu''s heart tightened, and he quickly gathered his wandering thoughts. Then he looked up at Jia Shu, smiled, and said, "From the Security Department. Last night, after I met with them, I learned about these treasures from their information."


    He fabricated a lie, "Last night, following your directive, I explained to them the situation that both you and the Bureau Chief have strange abilities and seemed a bit abnormal. They indeed showed great interest."


    "Then, under subtle prodding, they briefly explained Cataclysmic abilities and Cataclysmic items to me¡ªlargely consistent with the contents of the materials you had given me before."


    "Because I come from an investigator background, I naturally grew curious and inquired about what to do if these supernatural powers were used by a murderer to commit crimes."


    "They then introduced me to a few types of investigative Cataclysmic treasures commonly used by the Security Department."


    "Today, when forming the investigative team, I thought of these Cataclysmic items, and also of the prospect of Catastrophe Power being used for murder. So I filed an application report to you."


    Qiu Tu''s story was watertight, hence Jia Shu nodded with a mocking smile, "I understand."


    He said, "Then take this application to the logistics section for record-keeping. They''ll have someone specifically unseal the Cataclysmic treasures upon receiving the application form."


    "These Cataclysmic treasures are quite dangerous and shouldn''t be easily dispersed, so they''ll need to be picked up by me personally tomorrow."


    "After I collect them, I''ll have them delivered to you."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu hastily said, "When the time comes, Minister, you can just call me, and I''ll come to collect them."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile, "Chief Qiu is still quite sensible."


    After finishing his encouragement, he said, "Do well on the case. Don''t disappoint me."


    Qiu Tu promptly saluted, "Yes, Chief!"


    After saluting, seeing that Jia Shu had lowered his head to continue reviewing documents, Qiu Tu also turned to leave the office.


    However, having reached the door, Qiu Tu paused for a moment and then slowly stopped.


    He turned around and asked a question, "Chief, I remember you mentioned that the outcome of this case needs to satisfy both the political and commercial sectors of Xinjie City."


    "I have a question, if the outcome pleases some and displeases others, whose opinion should I prioritize?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Jia Shu slowly raised his head. His eyes, narrow and deep behind his glasses, stared intently at Qiu Tu, and then he said indifferently, "Vice President Tian."


    Hearing the answer Jia Shu gave, Qiu Tu nodded, "I understand, Chief."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated and pushed open the door, leaving the office...


    But after he left, in the empty office, Jia Shu remained for a long time without looking down at the documents.


    He gazed at the spot where Qiu Tu had just stood, a manic smile slowly forming on his face. His eyes suddenly turned red, the desire within seeming to be on the verge of bursting out uncontrollably.


    In that moment, the space itself seemed to subtly tremble, as if something terrifying was about to happen.


    Possibly sensing his own loss of control, Jia Shu took several deep breaths, forcibly suppressing his emotions. Then his tongue suddenly elongated, stretching out to lick his lips before he whispered, "Interesting... very interesting..."


    "But there''s no rush, no hurry at all. It''s not often that you come across such an intriguing prey; you have to properly nurture it before devouring it when it''s ripe..."


    [Jia Shu: Suspicion-0, Satisfaction+5] S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Stepping out of Jia Shu''s office and seeing the "Satisfaction" prompt floating before his eyes, Qiu Tu paused momentarily, somewhat bewildered.


    He recalled everything that had happened in Jia Shu''s office.


    It seemed... he hadn''t felt that he had performed exceptionally well.


    Why had Jia Shu''s satisfaction with him suddenly increased by so much?


    Could it be... because of accumulated efforts finally paying off?


    He hadn''t exposed any flaws, which had finally satisfied him?


    But... that didn''t seem right either. Shouldn''t the suspicion have decreased a bit?


    Qiu Tu found it a bit perplexing.


    However, since he couldn''t see the exact numbers for Jia Shu''s suspicion or satisfaction, there was too little information to analyze, so he could only temporarily push these thoughts to the back of his mind.


    After all, an increase in satisfaction was always a good thing. If he couldn''t figure it out, then so be it.


    It''s not like Jia Shu''s satisfaction was special, where the higher it was, the more dangerous, right?


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu followed Jia Shu''s instructions and went to the logistics department to submit the form once again.


    This time, with Jia Shu''s signature and notes on it, Chief Huang finally accepted the form, and his gaze towards Qiu Tu became friendlier.


    Clearly, he was gradually starting to see Qiu Tu as one of their own.


    Qiu Tu speculated that information related to Cataclysmic ability might be an implicit threshold.


    To the middle management, natives who had obtained such information from the higher-ups were regarded as having gained trust and could be considered half-insiders.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu and Chief Huang once again set a time to meet over the weekend. After exchanging a few more casual words, Qiu Tu left the logistics department.


    At noon, he ate lunch on the garden terrace on the 9th floor.


    In the afternoon, all the formalities for the establishment of the investigation team were finally completed. The investigation team was officially established.


    Possibly because of the stir Qiu Tu had caused at the Investigation Bureau today, the investigation team was very motivated.


    So Qiu Tu didn''t delay and took advantage of the momentum to start assigning tasks directly.


    He looked around at the twenty or so people present and then said, "Liu Fuping, Song Qing."


    "Present!" Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the two came forward.


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the inspection department to get the case files."


    "Yes!" The two female investigators accepted the command.


    After arranging for those two, Qiu Tu turned to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan."


    The two stepped forward, "Present!"


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the morgue to handle the paperwork, request to review the autopsy records, and have them prepare a separate morgue. I may personally examine the deceased''s body from this afternoon to tomorrow night."


    Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan saluted, "Yes!"


    Next, Qiu Tu turned to Wang Xi, "Wang Xi, Ding Xiaoliu."


    "Present!"


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the Surveillance Department and apply to retrieve all surveillance videos related to the deceased from the past couple of days."


    "Yes!"


    Following that, Qiu Tu assigned all the tasks one by one. Only Cao Dabiao and a few other investigators remained in the conference room.


    This made people like Cao Dabiao, who were eager to prove themselves, as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    So, after the other investigators had left according to their assignments, Cao Dabiao scurried up to Qiu Tu''s side and, with a hopeful expression, asked, "Chief, what about me? What about me?"


    Seeing his impatience, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Then he said, "Don''t worry, I haven''t forgotten about you."


    After that, he dropped the smile and quietly said, "Big Biao. The one I trust most is you." "That''s why I have an arduous task for you."


    Cao Dabiao''s spirits lifted upon hearing this.


    Qiu Tu put an arm around his neck and continued in a lowered voice, "I need you to investigate the movements of Vice President Tian and those transport merchants over the past three days."


    "Figure out where they went, who they met, and what time they left."


    "If you have connections, try to check the movements of their confidants as well."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was stunned at first. Then pointing at his own chubby face with his right index finger, his expression turned blank as he said, "Huh? Me? I''m supposed to investigate Vice President Tian and those big merchants?"


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue, "It''s not just you."

 Chapter 76 The Bizarre Book (7k Pleads for Follow-Up Reads)

    At this point, Qiu Tu pointed to the remaining seven or eight detectives and said, "They''re all at your disposal.""My requirements are very simple, absolutely no scare away the snake, we can''t let these big businessmen detect us."


    Cao Dabiao''s mouth slowly gaped open, "We''re not to let them detect us either?"


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao suddenly felt that being locked in the guard room wasn''t so bad; at least he wouldn''t have to face such an impossible mission.


    However, seeing the encouraging look in Qiu Tu''s eyes and thinking about the pressure Qiu Tu was under for his sake, Cao Dabiao clenched his teeth and then said resolutely, "Rest assured, Chief! I will complete the mission!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled and patted Cao Dabiao on the shoulder, continuing to pua, "Big Biao, you''re the person I trust the most in the entire Investigation Bureau. Don''t let me down."


    Cao Dabiao nodded vigorously! Then he took the remaining detectives and left in a hurry!


    After all members were dispatched, Qiu Tu walked to the window of the empty conference room, looking out at the view and quietly contemplating.


    Although Jia Shu had been hinting that he could randomly find someone to take the blame and close the case, Qiu Tu... believed that would be a dead end.


    If the case could be resolved so easily, the "Crisis Intuition" wouldn''t have kicked in.


    After all, with such high attention on the case, the eyes of so many powerful and wealthy people were on it. Creating a sham case, he might get away with it if it isn''t exposed. But if it is exposed, neither Jia Shu nor Yan Chen would protect him. Then he would be a disposable pawn that could easily be sacrificed.


    Therefore, the investigation into this case must continue. Only by finding the real culprit can he be in a position to attack or defend.


    You must understand, this case involves several major forces. No matter who is behind it, as long as the truth is uncovered, he would essentially have control over the other party''s vulnerability.


    He could trade for benefits if advancing, or turn over the murderer for self-preservation if retreating.


    Perhaps, that was the real solution to this crisis.


    It''s just that.... what made him uneasy was Jia Shu''s slightly abnormal behavior today.


    As far as Qiu Tu knew, Jia Shu, as Yan Chen''s right-hand man, should always be loyal to Yan Chen and to the Investigation Bureau.


    But... Jia Shu''s attitude today was ambiguous.


    This made him worry not only about a deeper conspiracy behind the death of the female spy but also about... whether the Political Department had silenced her.


    If it really was the Political Department that did the silencing, then he would have been severely manipulated, and the crisis would indeed be troublesome!


    Thinking along these lines, the hands behind Qiu Tu''s back clenched involuntarily.....


    .....


    Ten minutes later, several groups of detectives began to return, and Qiu Tu''s hands became filled with more and more information about the case.


    First was the physical examination report conducted by the Interrogation Section after Yin Caimei (the female spy) had been captured.


    All the indicators were very normal; there were no external injuries on the body, nor any secret diseases found.


    Then came Yin Caimei''s physical examination after the interrogation that night.


    There were residues of various interrogation drugs in her body, a broken little finger on the right hand, and multiple external injuries and bruises on her body. But none were fatally dangerous. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then there was the surveillance video brought back from the Inspection Department.


    The surveillance showed that Yin Caimei was sent back to the guard room after the interrogation ended and the physical examination was done. Thereafter, her behavior in the guard room was completely normal, and no other non-guard staff approached her.


    Until 6 o''clock last night, Yin Caimei had finished her meal and was resting on the bed, and even picked up a book to read.


    However, at 9 o''clock, while reading, Yin Caimei suddenly fell from the bed to the ground.


    The guard patrolling outside sensed something was wrong, hurriedly opened the guard room to check, and found that she was already breathless.


    And because Qiu Tu had taken over the case,


    All the evidence, such as the book Yin Caimei was reading and the leftover meal that night, had all been transferred to the Investigation Bureau.


    Qiu Tu didn''t pay attention to anything else but first put on his gloves and picked up the book that Yin Caimei had been reading before her death.


    It was a book with a black cover that looked somewhat oppressive and eerie.


    The cover had the title: "Brave New World".


    Qiu Tu opened the book, and on the title page, there was a row of delicate writing:


    "Death is only the disappearance of the flesh; the spirit remains connected to the world. Only a world where spirit eternally exists is the last hope for our tribe tormented by suffering."


    After reading the content on the title page, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed, then he opened the book and briefly flipped through a few pages.


    Most of the content in the book was metaphysical theory or visions and descriptions of the "Eternal Spirit World," with no other content.


    But... for some reason, looking at this book, Qiu Tu felt an inexplicable unease.


    Ordinary people may not think much of this book, just a regular publication. But Qiu Tu was a Cataclysmic.


    He truly knew that above the real material world, there existed a "Boundless Heart Sea" of the Spirit World.


    That was the source of the world''s cataclysm and the source of all supernatural beings'' powers.


    And this book just happened to describe a spirit world. Moreover, it called for approaching that world through death.


    Is this coincidence? Or intentional?


    And... who gave this book to Yin Caimei? What was their purpose?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu immediately arranged for Liu Fuping and Song Qing to investigate the book''s origin.


    Perhaps because it was not highly confidential, the answer came quickly: Yin Caimei had brought the book with her.


    Due to her special identity, after being captured, the department specifically authorized her to bring a limited amount of clothes and personal belongings. And this book was among them.


    The person who approved the request was... Jia Shu.


    Qiu Tu stared at the black book in his hands, took a deep breath, his gaze growing deeper.


    Before he could recover, the last group of detectives: Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan returned.


    And they brought Qiu Tu news he had not at all anticipated:


    Yin Caimei''s body had not been autopsied, so there was no post-mortem report.


    However, the morgue could arrange an autopsy room for Qiu Tu''s team, allowing them to schedule a suitable forensic pathologist for the initial autopsy.


    "No autopsy was performed?" Hearing this news, not even Qiu Tu was the most surprised, but Liu Fuping was.


    Her entire complexion changed, as if she realized something, and she stood frozen in place, her face shifting through various expressions.


    For a moment, she fiercely turned to look at Qiu Tu, her face filled with shock and disbelief.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected this result either.


    His brows were nearly furrowed into the shape of the character "´¨".


    The information revealed by the lack of autopsy was truly too peculiar.


    This meant that after Yin Caimei died, Jia Shu never bothered with her body, nor did he investigate the cause of her death.


    And following that line of thought, there were only two possibilities for Jia Shu''s actions.


    One, Jia Shu simply didn''t care about Yin Caimei''s life or death, nor the subsequent impact of her demise.


    Two, he knew that Yin Caimei would die. He might even have known the cause of death.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that the whole situation was developing towards the worst possibility.


    He pondered quietly for a moment, then turned to Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, and Wang Xi, arranging, "Chen Feng, you take Zhu Huoyan and Wang Xi to apply for a forensic pathologist to perform an autopsy."


    Chen Feng accepted the order and was just about to leave with his team.


    Qiu Tu stopped him again, "Wait a moment. Leave the communicator behind."


    Chen Feng didn''t understand why Qiu Tu would make this decision, but with his Loyalty over 60, he obediently left the communicator behind.


    After he left, Qiu Tu fiddled with the communicator he had left behind, then stood up, instructed the team members to continue analyzing the case, and prepared to step out to make a call.


    But as soon as he walked out of the conference room, he heard footsteps behind him.


    Qiu Tu turned his head and saw Liu Fuping with a frosty face following him out.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, said nothing, and headed straight for another empty conference room opposite them.


    Liu Fuping didn''t stop either, following him into that empty conference room.


    After glancing around the empty conference room to make sure no one else was there, Liu Fuping closed the door and finally dropped the pretense.


    For the first time in front of Qiu Tu, this beautiful young woman revealed her extraordinary nature.


    She looked up at Qiu Tu with a cold tone, "Qiu Tu! You knew! You knew all along! This is a trap!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze held a hint of complexity. He lowered his head to take out a cigarette from his pocket, ready to smoke one, but Liu Fuping snatched it away and threw it to the ground, then stood still, staring up at him.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed deeply and then gently wrapped his arms around the beautiful young woman in front of him.


    Liu Fuping stiffened for a moment.


    Possibly feeling she had been a bit too forceful, she let out a light sigh, her body about to relax, ready to have a proper talk with Qiu Tu.


    But at that moment, suddenly, she felt Qiu Tu''s embrace tighten fiercely!


    It felt as though two stone walls were crashing together, trying to crush her!


    It was as if she realized something, and she struggled violently!


    However, her strength seemed utterly insignificant in front of Qiu Tu! All her effort couldn''t even stop him by a fraction!


    "Crack...crack..." Liu Fuping even heard the sound of her own bones being crushed under the pressure.


    She struggled desperately, then looked up at Qiu Tu.


    But all she saw were a pair of eyes as dark as the abyss.


    In that moment, she truly felt the fear of death...


    "Please, please, I beg you!"


    Struggling to get the words out, Liu Fuping''s eyes reddened, pleadingly looking at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu watched her with a profound gaze, just looking.


    A second, two seconds...just when Liu Fuping felt utterly desperate, Qiu Tu suddenly let go of his hold.


    Liu Fuping collapsed to the ground with a thud, stumbled, and fell.


    But she hardly noticed, taking deep breaths, her eyes wide with the relief of someone who just escaped death.


    Qiu Tu emotionlessly stepped over her, walked to the window, and coldly dropped a sentence, "There won''t be a next time."


    "For a spy like you, killing you wouldn''t get me penalized."


    Liu Fuping swallowed hard, her face filled with fear as she looked towards Qiu Tu.


    She always thought that after sharing a secret with Qiu Tu for the past two days and their physical intimacies, even if Qiu Tu hadn''t fallen for her, he would at least have a modicum of pity and cherish her.


    But there was none.


    Just now, she truly smelled the scent of death.


    "Snap."


    Hearing that crisp sound, Liu Fuping turned towards it, quickly checking her waist, and then belatedly realized that her gun had been taken by Qiu Tu again.


    How little must this man trust her...


    For some reason, Liu Fuping felt a sense of defeat.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    Looking outside the window, he explained indifferently, "I only guessed everything this morning."


    "It''s all been a trap."


    "From the moment your handler passed you information last night and you began your investigation, both of you were already trapped."


    "So, even if I guessed the truth, telling you would be pointless. You must have been monitored already and wouldn''t be able to escape."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s expression kept changing.


    And at that moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but add, "Unfortunately, I feel like I may have been trapped today as well."


    After saying that, as if a thought suddenly struck him, he turned around and asked, "By the way, who is your handler?"


    Liu Fuping: ??


    -------

 Chapter 77 Innate Consort Holy Body (7k for follow-up reading!)

    At that moment, Liu Fuping thought she was hallucinating.Who would attempt to kill her and then casually ask about her superior as if nothing had happened?


    But seeing Qiu Tu''s serious expression and probing eyes, Liu Fuping knew the man before her was not joking.


    ''What a bastard!''


    She cursed in her heart, but the lingering fear from her near-death experience stopped Liu Fuping from outright rejecting Qiu Tu, and she evaded the question, "Why do you ask about my superior?"


    Qiu Tu leaned against the windowsill, looking at her with a half-smile, "You and your superior have been exposed. Jia Shu won''t let you off. So hiding your identity is useless now."


    "Why not come clean with me? Right now, we''re in the same boat. Who knows, I might come up with a way for us to escape from this desperate situation."


    Liu Fuping didn''t immediately respond to Qiu Tu''s words.


    She first straightened her disheveled clothes, even pulling up the loose collar over her chest¡ªconsidering Qiu Tu''s recent treatment of her, he didn''t deserve to ''take advantage'' of her!


    Then she pushed herself up from the ground.


    As she did these things, she was constantly thinking about what Qiu Tu had said.


    So when she stood up, she naturally asked, "What do you mean when you say that you''ve also fallen into a trap and that we''re both ''grasshoppers on the same string''?"


    Qiu Tu fiddled with the communicator in his hand, his eyes slightly deep, "The reason I took on this case is because of Jia Shu''s arrangement."


    "He didn''t want me to solve the case, just to investigate casually, fabricate some evidence, identify a suspect, and close the case."


    "I didn''t understand it at first, but afterwards, the more I thought about it, the more wrong it felt."


    "With such high-profile attention on this case from the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, and the military, could simply pinning the crime on someone really cover it up?"


    "And if it didn''t cover up, would Jia Shu and Yan Chen choose to protect me, or to sacrifice me?"


    "So, after much thought, I decided to first clear up the case, find the real culprit, and then make a slow decision."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused and then picked a cigarette up from the ground, putting it back in his pocket, "And who knew, just as I started on the case today, I found that something is even more amiss."


    "Allowing Yin Caimei, such an important suspect, to carry personal belongings?"


    "And among those personal items, there was a book with extremely strong seductive power, suspected to be banned?"


    "What''s more unsettling is, for an important suspect like her, the department didn''t care about her death after 24 hours: no investigation was conducted, no suspects were detained, they didn''t even conduct an autopsy."


    "This completely contradicts her status as an important suspect and doesn''t match up to the department''s level of concern for this case."


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Liu Fuping, "You must have also realized that you had fallen into a trap because of this, right?"


    Liu Fuping nodded slightly.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Following these suspicions, if I investigate backwards, it seems like the higher-ups'' attitude towards this case is problematic."


    He pointed to the ceiling, "They seem not to care about the truth of this case."


    "That''s really not right."


    Qiu Tu said, "Even for a rigged case, shouldn''t they start falsifying it only after finding that the case couldn''t proceed, with no clues left, or after they''ve found the culprit but realized the implications were too vast to pursue further?"


    "To not investigate the case at all and directly request a fake case, isn''t that a bit exaggerated?"


    Liu Fuping had actually sensed something peculiar about the case earlier, but felt overwhelmed by the complexity and couldn''t find a breakthrough.


    Now, with Qiu Tu piecing together the clues, a bolt of lightning flashed through her mind, and she understood his point.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with astonishment and said, "So... you suspect Yin Caimei was silenced by the Political Department themselves?!"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    With this line of thinking, Liu Fuping suddenly understood the "trap" and the "grasshopper on the same string" references Qiu Tu had been making. Her brain whirred, rapidly piecing together information.


    After a moment, she widened her eyes at Qiu Tu, "So, you''ve realized you''re in a no-win situation?"


    "If you investigate further, you might reach the higher-ups."


    "If you conceal it, you''re likely unable to keep it hidden?"


    Finally, Qiu Tu nodded in satisfaction, "You''ve finally caught on."


    "You!" Liu Fuping glared at Qiu Tu, her chest heaving rapidly with anger.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept her and then drifted away, somewhat deflated in spirit. Not that Liu Fuping''s impassioned demeanor wasn''t moving, but Qiu Tu really wasn''t in the mood right now.


    Besides, he wasn''t trying to belittle Liu Fuping. Compared to Qin Shuman, Liu Fuping''s abilities and professional quality indeed fell far short.


    With many matters, all it took was a glance from Qiu Tu, or even... no glance at all, and Qin Shuman would guess Qiu Tu''s intention and thoughts and then cooperate accordingly.


    As for Liu Fuping...


    After realizing she had fallen into a trap, her first action was to actually come and confront him?!


    This seriously made Qiu Tu question how much professional training she had undergone.


    If not for the fact that intelligence couldn''t be transmitted by "X", Qiu Tu really wanted to help her smarten up forcefully.


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was mentally criticizing Liu Fuping, she had finally made up her mind.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "I can''t tell you who my superior is."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, she quietly explained, "Because he might not have been exposed."


    "The information this time didn''t come from him."


    "But from a higher-up in the department who admires me."


    ```


    Gossip is human nature, so when Qiu Tu heard it, he immediately became interested, "Which high-level official?"


    "Does he know you''re a spy?"


    Liu Fuping''s face showed a bit of struggle, and after a moment, she said, "It''s... Deputy Director Tang."


    "Deputy Director Tang?" Qiu Tu blinked and looked utterly baffled.


    He quickly rifled through his memory for information about this big shot.


    After a moment, he froze, then looked at Liu Fuping with a shocked expression, "Deputy Director Tang? You two?!"


    There was a rare blush on Liu Fuping''s cheeks, but as a married woman, she was different. The next second, she composed herself and instead questioned Qiu Tu, "What?! Is there a problem with that?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    "It''s not that it''s impossible. It''s just unexpected...." Qiu Tu wore a strange expression.


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but Liu Fuping understood his meaning...


    Deputy Director Tang, whose real name was Tang Feifei, was the only female among the nine high-ranking officials of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    She was just over 30, with a pretty face but wheat-colored skin, and her short hair added to her spirited bearing.


    Apart from some impressions of her appearance, Qiu Tu''s other memory of her was... her "good" figure.


    This "good" wasn''t the same as Liu Fuping''s delicate and feminine curves, but rather... agile like a female leopard.


    Her chest was robust, and her limbs were covered in streamlined muscles. Just one look and you could tell she was brimming with explosive power, the type that could run 1000 meters in one breath without getting winded.


    She was a woman who had climbed to the top of an aggressive organization like the Investigation Bureau; no one dared to underestimate her.


    And now, unexpectedly... she was involved with Liu Fuping?!


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu inexplicably felt a chill down his back.


    Was he falling into a den of mistresses of the high and mighty? Having provoked the Bureau Chief''s mistress was one thing, but now he had gotten entangled with the Deputy Director''s significant other?


    Good heavens, was he genetically destined to be rebellious?


    Moreover, Yan Chen was already troublesome enough, but Tang Feifei, a woman in a high position, was even more so. Her dark and calculating thoughts were no less than Yan Chen''s.


    Plus, given a woman''s extreme nature, if she found out about his ambiguous behavior with Liu Fuping, who knows, she might chop him into pieces and feed him to dogs.


    Out of nowhere, Qiu Tu thought of his first day at the Interrogation Section, recalling the gossip about Liu Fuping and the neighboring Section Chief Liu.


    He wondered if that gentleman was still safe and sound.... S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he entertained these wild thoughts for a while, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping with a complex gaze and remarked, "I knew Sister Liu you were lethal to men, but I never imagined that even women couldn''t escape your charm."


    Liu Fuping gave Qiu Tu an annoyed glance, not bothering to explain, but asked, "Now you know who''s on my side. What do you think?"


    Qiu Tu propped his chin and fell into deep thought.


    If he remembered correctly, Tang Feifei was the Deputy Director of Administration at the Investigation Bureau, primarily responsible for training, organization, finance, and administrative tasks.


    But because Yan Chen was domineering and had many confidants, Tang Feifei spent most of her time effectively sidelined.


    Thus, there was a natural conflict between Tang Feifei and Yan Chen.


    And this case with the female spy was most likely engineered by Yan Chen''s camp. If Tang Feifei knew, was there a chance she''d take the opportunity to act?


    Thinking of this... Qiu Tu''s eyes brightened as he suddenly felt a breakthrough in thought.


    Yan Chen already knew Tang Feifei leaked intelligence to Liu Fuping, a spy whose allegiance was unknown, holding leverage over Tang Feifei.


    And if Tang Feifei got ahold of evidence implicating Yan Chen and Jia Shu in a cover-up to silence a key suspect...?


    If both sides thought they had leverage over the other, they might engage in some interesting conflict that would throw the entire situation into chaos?


    And if things got chaotic, he might have the chance to fish in troubled waters and make his escape? Perhaps then, the "Countdown Crisis" would be resolved?


    The more he contemplated, the more feasible the idea seemed to Qiu Tu...


    However, the one thing he had to be careful about in this plan was that he, being at the center of the storm, had to ensure his own safety. He didn''t want to become collateral damage before the war even began.


    But that wasn''t hard to achieve.


    Essentially, it boiled down to one strategy: stalling!


    After all, he knew the final deadline for this case: 10 days.


    He had to keep investigating within these 10 days but never conclude the case.


    Then, if he could present evidence of Jia Shu''s cover-up to Tang Feifei one step ahead, the matter would turn into a showdown between two strong factions, unrelated to him.


    Besides, the key to this entire affair was... he couldn''t give either faction a chance to reconcile or negotiate.


    He had to drag Tang Feifei down with him and make sure she couldn''t get out.


    To achieve this...


    With that, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon Liu Fuping...


    Perhaps Qiu Tu had been silent for too long, and Liu Fuping had gotten a bit distracted. Suddenly sensing Qiu Tu''s profound gaze, she couldn''t help but look up, "What is it?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu smiled very gently,


    "Sister Liu, do you want to survive? Do you want to continue with your mission?"


    For some reason, looking at Qiu Tu''s handsome smile, Liu Fuping felt a shudder.


    She had the feeling that Qiu Tu at this moment was even more terrifying than the brutal Qiu Tu before. Like a devil getting ready to toy with people''s hearts.....


    ```

 Chapter 78 This Woman has Transformed (7k for follow-up reads!)

    But it must be said, the current Qiu Tu indeed has become more charming and easily attracts people to want to continue the conversation....So, even though alarm bells were sounding in her head, Liu Fuping still, as if possessed by a ghost or god, asked, "What plan have you thought of?"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered twice, and he asked with a smile, "Tang Feifei doesn''t know your identity, right?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment but finally nodded slightly and explained, "She only told me the secret beforehand because I was involved in the interrogation and was worried about me being influenced."


    Qiu Tu nodded and wasn''t surprised.


    After all, Tang Feifei was a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau, if she knowingly leaked secrets to Liu Fuping, aware that she was a spy. Then... it would be Qiu Tu''s turn to get promoted and make a fortune.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and made a "pulling down" gesture with a smile, "Drag her down."


    "Tell her about the trickery in this case and let her investigate it."


    Liu Fuping frowned slightly and looked at Qiu Tu, "Is it that simple?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head with a smile, "Of course not."


    "Besides that, you must crazily steal intelligence, tell her the clues and details I''ve uncovered, and then... using her trust, extract all kinds of secret intel from the Investigation Bureau."


    Liu Fuping clearly didn''t understand, "Why is that?"


    Qiu Tu gazed at her deeply, his smile very sunny, "This is to prove that to bring down Yan Chen, she''s willing to betray the Investigation Bureau''s secrets and exchange information with you, the spy."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s back instantly turned cold.


    She looked at Qiu Tu in surprise, "You''re really insane!"


    "You are framing and setting up a high-ranking official!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu walked over to her, embraced her gently, and then whispered in her ear, "I''m just adding a layer of insurance."


    "If she proceeds as planned, then this insurance will never need to be used."


    "But if she regrets it and decides to reconcile with Yan Chen, making a deal, then at least we have a chip that prevents her from backing out."


    Being embraced by Qiu Tu once again, Liu Fuping visibly trembled. But after realizing that Qiu Tu wasn''t as rough as before, her body gradually softened.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s expression kept changing.


    After a moment, she bitterly said, "You really are no good!"


    Qiu Tu laughed upon hearing this, looked out the window, and said softly, "Actually, I wasn''t always like this."


    "I used to be very kind and naive."


    "Believing in kindness to others, believing that only through enduring the greatest hardships can one become a superior person."


    "I lived in a daze like this for many years. Until one day, I injured my foot, someone brought me a bowl of pig''s feet, telling me ''the ancestors said eat what you want to complement''. At that moment, I finally came to a realization."


    "Enduring hardship won''t make you a superior person; no matter how much hardship you eat, it only makes you suffer more, only by "eating" people... can you become a superior person!"


    He held Liu Fuping in his arms. The beautiful woman''s soft body was like water in his embrace, her gaze a bit unfocused, somewhat carried away.


    The two embraced each other as they looked out the window.


    After a while, Liu Fuping slowly came back to her senses, and this time, her mood seemed much calmer, no longer so "unprofessional."


    She leaned into Qiu Tu''s arms, then asked softly, "What if she doesn''t fall for it, doesn''t take the bait?"


    Qiu Tu replied softly, "Some things are not done only when there is no chance of failure but are done in the hope of seeing a chance for success."


    "How can you know for sure that it won''t work if you don''t try?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping fell silent for a while, then suddenly her face lit up with a smile, "Alright~ I got it, boss."


    At that moment, she seemed to become somewhat unfamiliar.


    Qiu Tu looked down at her.


    But she suddenly turned around, trapping Qiu Tu''s arms with her own.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reflexively tried to exert force.


    At that moment, Liu Fuping suddenly reached out and patted his handsome face, saying coyly, "Good little brother, wouldn''t all that strength be wasted if used now? Come over to your sister''s house tonight."


    Qiu Tu paused, and Liu Fuping took the opportunity to step out of his embrace with a smile.


    After leaving Qiu Tu''s embrace, Liu Fuping pulled down her neckline, revealing her snow-white cleavage.


    Then she glanced at Qiu Tu, her eyebrows arching slightly before she strode out of the empty conference room.


    With her lips curled up and her ample bosom bouncing, she walked with the air of a seductress, full of allure.


    This woman seemed to have undergone a transformation within minutes.


    Qiu Tu watched the beautiful woman in surprise.


    Compared to her previous half-baked state, she now truly looked a bit like a female spy....


    In the past, although Qiu Tu occasionally took liberties with her, he really wasn''t that interested in her.


    But now... if something were to happen between them, Qiu Tu would be willing to be the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau, live in a garden villa, surrounded by beauties, driving luxury cars!


    After silently musing to himself, Qiu Tu walked to the door, closed the door to the empty conference room, and locked it.


    Although Liu Fuping seemed to have truly had an epiphany, whether this plan could be executed still depended on her subsequent actions.


    Ability is related to attitude, but it also needs to be improved step by step.


    So, what Qiu Tu needed to do now was to add a few layers of insurance for himself, to avoid being left without alternatives if the plan failed.


    And his insurance was simple.


    One was that he needed to continue investigating this case. To see if the truth matched what he had guessed.


    Two was that he needed to pull more factions into the fray, to guarantee his safety...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out Chen Feng''s communicator and made a call to Lin Zuo.


    "Beep... beep... beep..."


    The phone was answered after just a couple of rings.


    This time, before Lin Zuo could speak, Qiu Tu directly said, "416."


    Lin Zuo''s speech cut off, and after a second''s silence, he asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu spoke concisely, "I''m looking for her."


    The sounds of Lin Zuo getting up came through the receiver.


    After a while, there was a knock at the door, followed by the sound of opening the door, and then the conversation between the reticent Lin Zuo and Qin Shuman, "Is there something you need?"


    "It''s a call from Qiu Tu."


    "Okay."


    Shortly after, the somewhat unfamiliar yet familiar voice of Qin Shuman rang in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Hello? Is that you?"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t tell if it was an illusion, but he felt that Qin Shuman''s voice seemed tired and low.


    Qiu Tu hummed a confirmation, "It''s me."


    Then he added, "I''ve run into some issues here."


    "I might need your help."


    Qin Shuman didn''t even ask what the issue was before agreeing, "All right, tonight, I''ll come to you."


    A smile crept onto Qiu Tu''s lips. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    See, it''s always comfortable to cooperate with smart people.


    With just one sentence, the other party could roughly guess what was happening and knew where to find him.


    With such an excellent partner, how could he worry about not overcoming the crisis at hand?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hung up the phone and silently deleted the call record from his communicator.


    ¡ªThis wasn''t to guard against Jia Shu but to protect Chen Feng.


    After completing these tasks, Qiu Tu returned to the conference room next door.


    At this moment, several investigators were still having a heated discussion about the case in the conference room. However, Liu Fuping was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu looked around, didn''t see her, and guessed that she had probably gone to find Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu paid it no mind, sat in his chair, and continued to review Yin Caimei''s dossier while patiently waiting.


    Soon, Li Feng and Wang Xi returned, saying the forensic doctor was in place and they could proceed with the autopsy.


    At that news, Qiu Tu stopped waiting for Liu Fuping and went with the team to the autopsy room to prepare for the examination.


    Upon arrival, Qiu Tu saw the forensic doctor: a young man in his late twenties, quite handsome, but slightly less so than Qiu Tu himself.


    After a brief chat, Qiu Tu learned some basic information about the forensic doctor.


    The doctor''s surname was Qin, from a collateral branch of the Qin family.


    Before the establishment of Xinjie City, he was a family physician for the Qin Family. Later, when Xinjie City was founded, he was sent to the Investigation Bureau to learn about autopsy and medical investigation skills, ultimately becoming a forensic doctor.


    This kind of identity shift was not uncommon in Xinjie City over the past two years.


    Or to put it another way, the major families and powers of Xinjie City were gradually infiltrating the three great authorities through this method, affecting the entire Xinjie City.


    At first, when he learned of the forensic doctor''s identity, Qiu Tu was somewhat hesitant: after all, he had quite a few conflicts with the Qin family, and he wasn''t sure if this doctor might cheat or deliberately slack off.


    What surprised Qiu Tu was that, although the forensic doctor was from the collateral Qin family, he didn''t seem to harbor any animosity towards him.


    In fact, while examining Yin Caimei''s body, the doctor even casually chatted with him about the recent series of disturbances within the Qin family.


    According to the doctor, after Master Qin Si absconded, the Qin family''s black and gray industries were swept clean and confiscated, affecting many of the Qin family''s collateral branches in the Fourth House, who gathered and caused trouble within the family.


    If it weren''t for Commissioner Qin stepping in to suppress the situation and providing them with new means to make a living, it would likely have turned into a major chaos.


    The arrangement of these people was also not hard to guess ¡ª they were all stuffed into the legitimate businesses of Qin Shu, the Third Brother, as only his enterprises could accommodate so many people.


    However, as most of these people were formerly in gangs, they brought their Jianghu habits with them into formal industries, causing trouble every few days, which brought great dissatisfaction to Qin Shu.


    As a result, Qin Shu and Commissioner Qin had argued more than once over this matter, causing even more unrest within the Qin family.


    Qiu Tu silently watched the entire process of the autopsy while also listening quietly to the forensic doctor''s report.


    As he listened, he sensed something was amiss.


    Looking at the forensic doctor, he tentatively asked, "Which branch of the Qin family are you from?"


    The forensic doctor, with his hands full of fresh blood, looked up at Qiu Tu and showed a toothy smile, "The Fifth House."


    Qiu Tu instantly understood.


    The Qin family''s Fifth House was the one with a younger half-brother from the same father, a playboy without serious pursuits.


    Since he was born of the legitimate wife, and being much younger than the four brothers, he had been excluded from the Qin family''s core of power early on.


    No wonder the forensic doctor from the Fifth House seemed to take such schadenfreude in the battles between the four Qin brothers.


    Qiu Tu got it.


    So, under Qiu Tu''s complete observation, the forensic doctor quickly finished the entire set of autopsies.


    After cleaning the tools and washing his hands, the forensic doctor spoke as he walked out, with Qiu Tu following beside him, "Although many samples still need to be tested, and everything should be based on the final autopsy report,"


    "From my experience, there were no other injuries on her body, no damage to the internal organs, and no signs of poisoning."


    "Can we almost rule out foul play?"


    "So, could it just be an accident?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu paused, and let out a heavy internal sigh.


    The forensic doctor was unaware of the Cataclysm Prop, but Qiu Tu knew about it.


    So, these entirely normal autopsy results, in fact, strongly suggested the possibility of "murder."


    After all, if there truly was no fatal injury, and it wasn''t murder or suicide, then maybe... only a Cataclysmic ability or a Cataclysm Prop could secretly cause a person''s death.


    Contemplating this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hesitate.


    If Yin Caimei was indeed killed by a Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysm Prop,


    Then... who could have done it?


    Keep in mind... even within the Investigation Bureau, there aren''t many Cataclysmics ¨C probably only a dozen or so division chiefs and four Bureau Chiefs and Deputy Directors.


    This range is too small, too frightening...


    ----

 Chapter 79 Harvest of Over Ten Million (7k)

    ```Forensic Doctor Qin turned his head to look at Qiu Tu, perhaps sensing his hesitation, and then seriously said, "Every body has its unique code; as long as we can crack it, it will speak."


    "So, we must believe in science, believe in evidence."


    "We can''t doubt everything just because a case is mysterious. That would lead us into the trap of ''skepticism''!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled.


    He indeed wished to believe in science, believe in evidence.


    But... he himself possessed supernatural powers that couldn''t be explained by science.


    How could he believe that just because science hasn''t detected any problems with the body, there really were no problems?


    However, these things weren''t something Qiu Tu could explain to Forensic Doctor Qin. It wasn''t just because of the principle of confidentiality; their relationship also hadn''t reached that point.


    Thinking this, he chuckled again and said in a gentle tone, "I understand. It''s just that I indeed have some other doubts."


    Forensic Doctor Qin was a shrewd person. Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, he gave him a suspicious glance, opened his mouth, but in the end chose not to say anything.


    After completing the autopsy, Qiu Tu led Chen Feng, Song Qing, Wang Xi, Little Liu, and others back to the investigation team''s temporary office.


    Upon returning to the office, Qiu Tu checked the time; it was already 5 p.m.


    He decisively clapped his hands and then declared, "That''s it. Today''s work is done for now. Everyone should go rest if you need to rest; it''s time to clock out if it''s time to clock out."


    "If anyone has other ideas, we can discuss them tomorrow."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s remarks, people like Li Feng and Wang Xi were noticeably stunned.


    Obviously, at the Investigation Bureau, everyone was already accustomed to working overtime; there was never a time for leaving work punctually.


    So, for a moment, although they had heard Qiu Tu''s order, not a single person dared to move.


    Then, emboldened Little Liu glanced at the others and raised his hand to ask, "Chief, are you serious? We''re not working overtime?"


    Qiu Tu looked at him, smiled, and responded, "Why work overtime if it can be done during regular hours?" sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Saying that, Qiu Tu pointed to the files spread out on the table, "Besides, what work is there to do now?"


    "We''ve finished studying the files and documents, and we''ve watched the autopsy being completed. As for... the lab tests, the earliest results won''t be available until tomorrow."


    "We don''t even have a preliminary autopsy report yet, nor do we understand how the victim died. We can''t just randomly arrest a suspect for interrogation, can we?"


    "So..." Qiu Tu gestured with his hand, "dismissed, dismissed, everyone go home and rest, recharge your energy for tomorrow''s case-solving efforts."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s definitive statement, Song Qing, who had been restless on the side, couldn''t contain her excitement and leaped up, exclaiming, "Long live the Chief!"


    "I knew I read you right!"


    After she spoke, she happily gathered her belongings and dashed out of sight.


    With her leading the way, Li Feng, Little Liu, and the others exchanged glances, also smilingly thanked Qiu Tu, packed up their things, and left work stylishly...


    Qiu Tu was the last to leave.


    He neatly organized all the case materials and documents, locked them up, then turned off the lights, locked the door, and left the Investigation Bureau.


    Probably because it was rare for Investigation teams to leave work so early from the Political Department, Qiu Tu garnered many envious glances along the way.


    And the loyalty level notifications for his subordinates kept popping up.


    [Li Feng Loyalty +1]


    [Ding Xiaoliu Loyalty +2]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +2]


    [.....]


    [Song Qing Loyalty +7]


    Seeing that last exaggerated loyalty notification, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but crack a smile.


    This girl really hated overtime; her loyalty actually increased by so much...


    After work, Qiu Tu drove to the Investigation Bureau''s gas station to fill up his car with fuel.


    As he wasn''t a director yet and couldn''t enjoy official car benefits, the expense was his own¡ª a whole Silver Yuan.


    In Qiu Tu''s former life, that was almost 800 Yuan.


    And this much fuel would only last him three days. Indeed, in the Planning Area, such controlled resources were incredibly expensive.


    If it wasn''t for receiving Old Fourth Qin''s assets tonight, Qiu Tu imagined he''d be reluctant to keep driving this car.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu headed to the small restaurant at 29 Nanfang Street¡ª a frequent gathering spot for him and his brothers.


    The restaurant''s owner used to be a big shot in Ah-Tai''s gang, who, during the military''s crackdown in Xinjie City two years ago, was quick to escape, sparing his life but crippling one of his legs.


    Subsequently, he decided to retire from the underworld, opening this restaurant with his wife.


    Arriving at the restaurant, the owner, wearing an oilcloth apron, was sitting down, scraping fish scales.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he smiled and raised his hand in greeting, "Ah-Tu''s here. The guys are inside."


    Qiu Tu nodded in acknowledgment, greeting, "Brother Qiang," before heading straight to the courtyard inside.


    The small restaurant wasn''t grand, without any private rooms, so Qiu Tu and his brothers usually took over the courtyard behind the owner''s house, setting up a few tables for open-air dining.


    Upon entering the courtyard, about a dozen young men were already there, scattered around and chatting in groups.


    Noticing Qiu Tu''s arrival, they greeted him in succession, "Brother Tu''s here." "Brother Tu." "Brother Tu, you''ve arrived."


    Qiu Tu returned the greetings with a smile and then scanned over them.


    Besides Qiu Tu, his small group consisted of 15 people in total. The core was made up of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and Eagle.


    The rest of them were mostly picked up by Qiu Tu or brought back by Ah-Tai after some scuffle somewhere.


    Now, Ah-Tai had gone to the Special Service Department. Eagle and Ah-Kun had gone to the Political Department. Twelve others hadn''t been placed yet.


    Today, Qiu Tu had to choose two suitable individuals from them to send to the military.


    [Monkey Loyalty: 85]


    ```


    [Ah-Shui Loyalty: 83]


    [Da Tou Loyalty: 81]


    [Ah-Xiong Loyalty: 89]


    [.....]


    Most of the brothers'' loyalty to Qiu Tu lay within the 80-85 range. This proved their deep affection for Qiu Tu and their unwavering commitment to follow him.


    Understandably so, as they had relied on each other for many years, weathering numerous trials and forging bonds as close as life itself.


    Among them, Ah-Xiong surprised Qiu Tu the most.


    Ah-Xiong hadn''t been picked up by Qiu Tu but was brought in one day by Ah-Tai from the outside.


    Back then, Ah-Tai was still involved in gang activities, and Ah-Xiong was a member of a rival gang. During a gang clash, Ah-Xiong''s reckless fighting style caught Ah-Tai''s eye.


    So, after Ah-Xiong was nearly chopped to death, Ah-Tai dragged him back to see if he could still be saved.


    By the time he was covered in blood and barely hanging onto life. Out of kindness, Qiu Tu spent money on a doctor to suture and clean his wounds; the rest was left to fate¡ªthis was the best medical care one from the lower strata could hope for.


    Perhaps it was his destiny to survive; to everyone''s astonishment, Ah-Xiong actually pulled through.


    From then on, he hung around with Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and the rest of the brothers.


    However, even though he was with Qiu Tu and the others, he was actually quite solitary by nature and didn''t talk much. He would silently sit to one side and eat during gatherings.


    Having apparently suffered a great deal of trauma since childhood, he seemed to regard everyone with innate hostility, which made him the least favored within Qiu Tu''s small circle.


    Initially, Qiu Tu presumed he would be the least loyal of all; unexpectedly, his loyalty turned out to be the highest, next to Ah-Tai''s and Eagle''s.


    Qiu Tu speculated that this loyalty might have something to do with personality....


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was observing his brothers, Monkey picked up a canvas bag from the ground and walked over holding it.


    Upon reaching Qiu Tu, Monkey handed the canvas bag to him with both hands, baring his teeth in a grin, "Brother Tu, this is what we snatched from Old Fourth Qin''s wife."


    Qiu Tu took the bag, which was slightly heavy in his grip.


    Opening it to look inside, he saw over thirty shiny Little Goldfish and a pile of paper vouchers.


    In the post-Cataclysm world, gold was much more valuable than silver. One Little Goldfish was worth about 200 Silver Yuan, equivalent to a purchasing power of about 160,000.


    The thirty-plus Little Goldfish in the canvas bag amounted to an immense sum of nearly six million.


    It was the cash that Master Qin Si''s family had carried with them during their escape.


    Adding the non-cashable paper vouchers, deeds, land titles, and Master Qin Si''s hidden gold reserves....


    Qiu Tu roughly estimated that Master Qin Si''s fortune was at least in the hundreds of millions, and the contents of this bag could cash out to at least twenty or thirty million.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but swear inwardly,


    "Damn, he''s so rich!"


    "Lucky for me, it''s all mine now!"


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t sit idly; he began pulling out Little Goldfish from the bag, tossing each one to a brother as he drew it out.


    Watching as each brother caught one, he continued to pull out another, and toss it to another brother.


    Suddenly, cheers erupted in the yard, one after another.


    With a minimum monthly expenditure of about 200 Copper Yuan for ordinary people in this world, one Little Goldfish was enough to sustain a common person for decades.


    Even if one lived extravagantly, a few years of carefree living wouldn''t be a problem.


    And as Qiu Tu casually doled out such a vast sum to them, how could they not cheer?


    So, in just a moment, a plethora of +1, +2 loyalty notifications popped up before Qiu Tu.


    The reason the increases were modest, Qiu Tu guessed, was because the loyalty of those present was already too high....


    After quickly distributing twelve Little Goldfish, Qiu Tu set the canvas bag down by his feet and instructed, "The Little Goldfish is for your nest egg, to take a wife. Don''t squander it needlessly."


    "Later, I''ll have Eagle exchange a few Little Goldfish for some Silver Yuan and Copper Yuan for everyone''s daily expenses."


    "The rest of the money will stay with me for now; if you need any, come to find me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Monkey, Ah-Shui, Da Tou, and the others promptly responded energetically.


    Because of the money distribution, the entire yard was abuzz with joy, even the sounds of conversation growing louder.


    Allocating wealth was always the most uplifting.


    Soon after, Eagle and Ah-Kun arrived, but Ah-Tai was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu didn''t wait for him: the guy had always lacked a sense of time; there''s no telling what might have held him up.


    So Qiu Tu simply asked the owner to serve the dishes.


    Course after course was laid out, and the brothers ate and drank merrily.


    After the third round of drinks, it struck 9 p.m.


    Qiu Tu''s communicator buzzed with vibration.


    Picking it up, Qiu Tu saw a call from an unfamiliar number.


    A hunch crossed his mind, guessing who the caller might be.


    He answered the communicator, and indeed, Qin Shuman''s voice came through the earpiece, "I''m outside."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu excused himself from Eagle and the others and then got up to leave the yard.


    Barely stepping out of the restaurant, Qiu Tu looked up to see Qin Shuman standing across the street.


    She appeared different tonight. Not in a cheongsam or military uniform, she wore a black, stand-collar cashmere coat.


    Even though the coat covered her exquisite figure, it added to her tall stature, giving her an air of elegance that seemed to stand apart from the rest of the world....


    Seeing her, a smile involuntarily spread across Qiu Tu''s face, and then he started walking towards her....


    And as Qiu Tu approached, Qin Shuman''s lips also curved into a smile.


    She seemed to have applied light makeup deliberately tonight, and her smile was breathtakingly beautiful.

 Chapter 80 Monsters of the Immaterial World (7k)

    In the Planning Area, vehicles are a rare sight.So crossing the street doesn''t require much care.


    Qiu Tu strode across the street and then opened his arms wide, laughing as he said, "Miss Shuman! To not see you for a day feels like an eternity has passed! Let me give you a hug."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, dressed in a black coat, stepped back with a smile and then pushed away at Qiu Tu''s chest with her hand, which was gloved in black, scolding playfully, "Stop it! Be serious!"


    But Qiu Tu didn''t heed Qin Shuman''s rejection and still wrapped his arms around her to hug her tightly.


    With a beauty in his arms, Qiu Tu was surrounded by the faint fragrance of Qin Shuman.


    Somehow, the anxiety he had been feeling over the past days seemed to have quieted down a bit.


    Qin Shuman quietly leaned into Qiu Tu''s embrace, at first holding back a little, but in two seconds, she gently rested her head against his chest.


    The two of them, fatigued from the terrible issues in their respective departments, suddenly found a haven where they could briefly rest...


    After quietly holding each other for a while, Qin Shuman looked up at Qiu Tu''s face.


    Qiu Tu''s resolute, handsome face had a hint of worry, even his eyebrows were furrowed.


    Qin Shuman reached out and gently smoothed Qiu Tu''s brow, then said softly, "Chief Qiu seems to be in a really bad mood today~~"


    Snapping back to reality, Qiu Tu smiled and asked, "Oh, really?"


    Qin Shuman replied with a "hmm" and said, "I don''t think I''ve ever seen your brows so deeply furrowed."


    "Is the case that difficult to handle?" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu said, "That''s not it. I was just thinking about how white that girl''s legs across the street are, and why she doesn''t show them off a bit more."


    Qin Shuman: ??


    Annoyed, Qin Shuman kicked Qiu Tu in the stomach and then pushed him away.


    Qiu Tu yelped, "Ouch," clutching his stomach. "You woman lack martial morals! Attacking by surprise!"


    Seeing his reaction, Qin Shuman''s lips curled into a smug smile. She teased him, "Chief Qiu~~ If you lack the alertness of the Security Department and hug people carelessly, you should be prepared to get hurt!"


    Qiu Tu looked innocent, "The work of the Security Department is too hard! Even a hug has to be so cautious!"


    The two bantered back and forth, lightening the somber mood from when they first met.


    While arguing with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman was searching the periphery for the girl showing off her legs.


    But after a long search, she found no one.


    It took her a while to realize it, and then she glanced at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu, with a smile, let go of his stomach and took her hand, then invited, "Shall we take a walk together?"


    Qin Shuman felt as if something soft in her heart had been touched. She replied with a "hmm" and then joined Qiu Tu for a stroll along the street.


    Today, Qin Shuman had come out as her true self, so there was no need to worry about being recognized.


    Hand in hand, they walked along the street, with Qiu Tu softly sharing everything that had happened today with Qin Shuman.


    This included Jia Shu assigning him to handle the "Yin Caimei case"; Jia Shu saying he would gain the trust of the Security Department; and all the unusual signs and his speculations after taking over the "Yin Caimei case".


    Since it was already past 9 p.m., there were no pedestrians on the road, so they didn''t worry about being overheard by others.


    Qin Shuman listened to Qiu Tu''s current problems in silence, pondered for a moment, and then also spoke up,


    "Let''s not talk about the Yin Caimei case for now. Jia Shu said you will receive attention from the Security Department, and I think I have some guess and understanding of it."


    She glanced at Qiu Tu and said softly, "Because of protecting Master Qin Si, our Security Department leaked information to the Political Department, giving them an excuse to make things difficult."


    "So, just yesterday alone, several moles we had placed close to the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau were all extracted, and we haven''t heard from them since."


    "Jia Shu is ruthless; I think they are very likely in a dire situation."


    "Considering what you said about last night''s Yin Caimei case information being bait, I suspect that some of the Security Department''s lower-level moles were also listed by him during last night''s operation."


    "Therefore, next he is likely to one by one remove all the moles from the Security Department. In this case, to expand our channels of information, we will inevitably have to cooperate with you."


    "And that''s how you can infiltrate our ranks."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then nodded slightly, "It should be so."


    Then, Qiu Tu continued, "The situation for your moles now is very dangerous."


    "What do you plan to do? Withdraw them?"


    Qin Shuman''s face showed struggle as she shook her head slightly, "We can''t withdraw them."


    "If we do, it could expose you."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s gaze deepened, "The best course of action is if we can also find out the moles that the Investigation Bureau has within the military."


    "And through you, tip off Jia Shu."


    "That way, both sides holding each other''s people, we could reach a new balance."


    Qiu Tu asked, "Then... how do you plan to find out the Investigation Bureau''s moles in the military?"


    Qin Shuman said with a wry smile, "There''s no way for now."


    "Our lines to the higher-ups in the Investigation Bureau are all severed."


    "Trying to screen through so many soldiers is simply not realistic."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, a bolt of lightning suddenly flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind.


    He thought of... Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei.


    As a spy planted by some unknown power within the Investigation Bureau, and with the support of Tang Feifei, the Deputy Director of the Bureau, she must have accessed a great deal of classified information, right?


    I wonder if she has a list of the Bureau''s spies...


    Moreover, as the Deputy Director and a rival of Yan Chen, if there was a way to diminish Yan Chen''s power, I believe she would be very tempted.


    Futhermore, planting spies in other departments is inherently against the rules, so making a move on this matter wouldn''t put her in a difficult position.


    So¡­ even if Liu Fuping doesn''t have a list of spies, if I can connect with Tang Feifei and collaborate, maybe there will be some unexpected results.


    After all¡­ Tang Feifei is the "Deputy Director of Administration" in charge of "training".


    Most of the spies among the three major power institutions are secretly trained in Xinjie City.


    If I could get from Tang Feifei the names of those who have been trained at the Bureau over the past year, who didn''t pass the assessment, but finally got jobs in the military, maybe we could catch a large number of spies¡­


    And such a collaboration would be greatly beneficial to Qiu Tu as well.


    Besides reducing the power of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, it would also allow him to establish a connection with Tang Feifei.


    Having a Deputy Director as a hidden backer was far too important for Qiu Tu, who was currently treading on thin ice within the Investigation Bureau...


    The room for maneuver would suddenly become much larger.


    Having clarified his thoughts, Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Shuman and said, "I''ll think of a way to help you with this matter."


    "I might have some ideas."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman looked at him in surprise.


    As the head of the Security Department''s Investigation Division, Qin Shuman knew all too well the difficulty of obtaining a list of spies; an opportunity like the one presented by Jia Shu was truly rare and hard to come by.


    And now, Qiu Tu was saying he had a way?


    Truth be told, Qin Shuman''s first reaction was disbelief... but after all, it was the thought that counted coming from Qiu Tu. So after a brief pause, she still smiled and said,


    "Then I''ll thank Chief Qiu in advance~~"


    "My entire career is now in your hands~"


    Although Qin Shuman hid it well, using a light joke to dilute the seriousness of the matter, Qiu Tu still sharply picked up on her underlying emotions.


    Qiu Tu didn''t say anything. "Doing" was always more reliable than "talking"; handing over the list to Qin Shuman would be the best response when the time came.


    After discussing the matter of the double agent, Qin Shuman also brought up the "Yin Caimei case".


    When it came to this case, she became noticeably more serious.


    She said, "The book ''Brave New World'' is actually very famous."


    "It''s just that it''s known among the great Sanctuaries, not in the Planning Area."


    "Sanctuaries?" Qiu Tu asked in surprise.


    Qin Shuman nodded, then continued, "Yes. This book was once wildly popular in the Eight Great Shelters."


    "After all, turbulent times are the best breeding ground for such cultic propaganda."


    "But, a few years ago, the Eight Great Shelters came to an agreement to ban the book and called for all residents to hand it over for destruction!"


    Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Why?"


    Qin Shuman''s brows furrowed as well.


    She said, "I''m not sure. It''s classified as level B secret, and I don''t have access to check."


    "But I''ve heard the director mention before that this book has caused a lot of trouble in the non-material world."


    "It seems that many people committed suicide or died in strange ways after reading it, leading to the birth of a terrifying Cataclysmic Creature in the non-material world, which then caused some bizarre changes in the real world."


    The previous night, when she met with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman had given him several pieces of information on Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic abilities.


    It roughly recorded some of the information Qiu Tu received from the origin of the world.


    However, possibly to avoid leaking secrets or for some special reason, the information did not directly use the term "Boundless Heart Sea" but referred to it as "non-material world" instead.


    After listening to Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu automatically replaced the keywords in his mind and sorted through the intelligence as well.


    Then, with some hesitation, he asked, "So, do you suspect that Yin Caimei''s death might be related to that book?"


    Qin Shuman spread her hands, "I''m not sure. I''m just giving you a new direction to consider."


    After saying that, she paused for a moment before adding, "Besides, although ''Brave New World'' was banned and destroyed in the Sanctuaries, it is still very prevalent among anti-government organizations like the United Front."


    "So it makes sense that Yin Caimei had this book."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu sensed something amiss.


    He paused for a moment, then tentatively asked, "If I''m not mistaken, the Sanctuaries have been continually purging anti-government armed forces, and it''s not just because they threaten the rule of the Sanctuaries, right?"


    "But it''s related to... that non-material world, or rather the creatures in it?"


    "Things like ''Brave New World,'' which can give rise to creatures in the non-material world, are not the only ones?"


    ------

 Chapter 81 Cataclysmic Creatures: Phantom Jellyfish (7k)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman clearly hesitated for a moment.Perhaps this matter was related to the secrets of the Security Department, so she hesitated for a full two seconds before saying to Qiu Tu, "Yes."


    She explained, "The material world and the non-material world are not independent of each other but can influence each other."


    "In the material world, the spirits, obsessions, and negative emotions of living beings can cause various changes in the non-material world."


    "And if certain obsessions or negative effects reach a threshold, then the spirit world might give birth to related Cataclysmic Creatures, or even more terrible disasters."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu tentatively asked, "Then what kind of impact do these Cataclysmic Creatures and ''disasters'' have on the real world?"


    Qin Shuman said with a bitter smile, "A lot. So much that you wouldn''t want to know."


    "Let me give two simple examples...."


    "For instance, the Cataclysmic Creature that was born due to the book ''Brave New World'' once caused a disaster in the non-material world, destroying six or seven cities under the jurisdiction of the Third Sanctuary."


    "Later, the Third Sanctuary paid a great price to quell the disaster and drive it away."


    "Another example is a huge Cataclysmic Creature named the ''Phantom Jellyfish,'' which is several kilometers long and drifts in the depths of the non-material world, alone."


    "But once it moves towards the material world, it triggers a psychic tidal wave. The power of the disaster will surge toward the material world like waves."


    "Ordinary beings in the material world will be affected by this Catastrophic Power, rapidly evolving."


    "However, the spirits of many higher beings will be affected, with lighter cases experiencing dizziness and vertigo while severe cases may go mad or suffer from schizophrenia."


    "Material affects spirit, and spirit in turn affects material...." Qiu Tu softly evaluated.


    For the first time, he had a clear understanding of the information he had received from the world''s origin.


    The Boundless Heart Sea is not just the source of Catastrophe Power, but truly... the Cataclysm origin that has changed the entire world...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu felt a surge of new ideas about the "Yin Caimei case."


    If the emotions of beings in the real world can give rise to Cataclysmic Creatures, and if the Cataclysmic Creatures in the Boundless Heart Sea can in turn affect the beings of the material world...


    Then this matter may very well involve more than just the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, Anti-government Armed Forces, and City Hall; there might be deeper secrets involved.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind stirred, and he became curious about another matter.


    He looked at Qin Shuman beside him and inquired, "Actually, I''ve always been curious about something."


    "Why would The military, Investigation Bureau, and City Hall plant spies within each other?"


    "Aren''t we all people of the Sanctuary?"


    "Isn''t this like stirring up a civil war?"


    Qin Shuman pondered for a moment upon hearing this before carefully stating, "First off, I need to correct you on one thing. The Sanctuary has never supported the three major power authorities fighting against each other."


    "In fact, openly, the Sanctuary has always severely criticized this behavior."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s tone shifted, "But..."


    "The Sanctuary is, after all, a new government that has only been established in recent years. Calling it a nation is one thing, but it''s more aptly described as a coalition of various forces."


    "Several top-level individuals sought to change the plight of humanity through cooperation and together rebuild the entire Cataclysm-affected world. So, they united, allocated interests according to the resources each possessed, and established an entirely new social system."


    "Therefore, whether it''s the Investigation Bureau or The military, they are actually relatively independent entities."


    Qin Shuman gestured with her hand and explained, "It appears as though we are all led by the Sanctuary, but in reality, the power structure is segmented."


    "If you join the Investigation Bureau, your promotion is within the Investigation Bureau''s hierarchy. If you enter The military, you''ll only rise within The military."


    "The same applies to City Hall."


    "This has resulted in each of the three major power authorities being independent kingdoms, each developing on their own. They only collaborate when facing crises."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu said in astonishment, "Wouldn''t that cause chaos?"


    Qin Shuman explained, "It would. Which is why, after recognizing the problem, the upper echelons decisively implemented two measures."


    "One is to address the symptoms, and the other is to address the root causes."


    Qiu Tu was curious, "Address the symptoms? Address the root causes?"


    Qin Shuman nodded, "Addressing the symptoms is what you just mentioned. Although the Sanctuary forbids the three major authorities from targeting each other openly, it covertly encourages them to plant ''spies'' in other authorities."


    She paused for a second, correcting herself, "Actually, the correct term should be ''agents.'' They are encouraged to insert agents into other authorities."


    "And the agents inserted into other organizations should hide their true identities as much as possible, climb up the ladder with the support of their original power, and ultimately attain high positions."


    "For example, if you''re the person we''ve chosen. If you''re a Deputy Staff Chief in the Investigation Bureau, that qualifies as a spy."


    "But if you take Yan Chen''s position and become the Investigation Bureau Chief... with the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau under your leadership, how could you be considered a spy?"


    "You''d just be an Investigation Bureau official with good relations to The military."


    Qiu Tu''s mouth opened slightly: ....


    Inexplicably, it made sense.


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s shock, Qin Shuman covered her mouth and chuckled before continuing, "Actually, due to these actions, there has been a significant increase in personnel transfers between the three major authorities in the past two years. The connections between them have also become much closer."


    "After all, sometimes when ''spies'' have been in place for too long, they can''t even tell who they really work for. They might help The military as well as the Investigation Bureau."


    "As it went back and forth, it did indeed shatter the scenario of an independent kingdom," Yan Chen said.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hesitated slightly before voicing his doubt, "What about the ordinary spies you send to the upper echelons?"


    "It can''t all be about climbing the ranks, right?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head, "That''s not it."


    "Those spies have three purposes."


    "First is to gather intelligence, to stay updated on what sibling agencies are up to, so as not to make decisions based on incorrect information."


    "Second is to help our own people rise through the ranks. There has to be a vacancy up there for our people to climb. If we discover any illegal activities on their part, it not only creates positions for our people but also rids the Sanctuary of a pest, doesn''t it?"


    "Third is... oversight."


    Qin Shuman''s expression became complex as she continued, "Generally speaking, most mid- and high-level officials stationed in the Planning Area are Cataclysmics."


    "Cataclysmics are too unpredictable; no one knows when they might Degenerate or undergo a Psychic Mutation."


    "Therefore, we three major agencies monitor each other to try to prevent certain uncontrollable incidents..."


    At this point, she looked earnestly at Qiu Tu and added, "Yan Chen, for instance, is someone we pay close attention to."


    After listening to Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu finally had a rough understanding of the spy games played by the three major power agencies, a game of "tit for tat."


    No wonder he felt that the government infighting in this world was rather intense. It turned out to be due to structural issues at the founding of the government, which was now going through a painful adjustment period.


    According to Qin Shuman, the three factions would probably fight for years, maybe a decade, before gradually merging and forming a cohesive whole.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of another, more fundamental solution mentioned by Qin Shuman.


    Since the conversation had reached this point, he naturally asked about it.


    When the topic shifted to this, Qin Shuman became much more serious. She said, "The fundamental method would be... to promote top-level political reform."


    "Initially, the highest governing body of each Sanctuary was merely a round-table meeting, with negotiations and benefit divisions amongst leaders of various factions."


    "Now, each Sanctuary is setting up a Supreme Council, centralizing power within the Council, which has the ultimate decision-making authority over all affairs of the Sanctuary and the Planning Area."


    "To go against the orders issued by the Council would be to commit a crime against the government."


    "In various cities, the Supreme Council is also pushing for the establishment of Municipal Committees, trying to forge the Committee into the highest governing body of each city."


    "Leaders of departments like the military and the Investigation Bureau will eventually become members of the Municipal Committee, merely regular members."


    "The city''s major and minor decisions, even the appointment of mid-level officials, will be determined through discussions by the Committee members."


    "But this measure faces significant resistance, so for now it has only reached the propaganda stage."


    After hearing Qin Shuman''s account, Qiu Tu finally had a comprehensive understanding of the power structure of Xinjie City and indeed the Sanctuaries as a whole.


    It was an era moving from chaos to order, filled with all kinds of opportunities.


    If he could seize them well, perhaps he really could reach the peak!


    And moreover...


    He thought of his own journey towards Superhuman Power, "Order-Politics."


    He thought of the Cataclysmic Creatures that intruded upon the real world from the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Qiu Tu knew that he had to struggle up the ladder, step by step, to the very top, to grow ever stronger!


    Only by doing so could he truly take control of his life in this bizarre world of Cataclysms!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s eyes became much more determined...


    Afterward, Qin Shuman discussed with Qiu Tu some other details about the "Yin Caimei case."


    As the head of the Security Department''s Investigation Department, Qin Shuman had plenty of experience handling supernatural cases.


    So many of her insights were enlightening to Qiu Tu.


    For example, many Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysm Props might not require close contact with the victim, making long-range murder a possibility.


    For instance, the guard rooms of the Political Department and Security Department usually have the ability to block external Catastrophic Powers. Unless the door to the Guard Room is opened, external Catastrophes theoretically can''t penetrate.


    Moreover, ordinary objects in the hands of the deceased or within the body might have been "seeded" with Cataclysmic abilities, set to trigger automatically upon meeting certain conditions...


    After talking with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu felt he had a new perspective on the case.


    Maybe... this case wasn''t necessarily a silencing by the Political Department?


    After all, if it was indeed the Political Department''s doing, their methods might not have been so crude? Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Such thoughts brought a glimmer of hope to Qiu Tu''s investigation.


    Most importantly... after they finished discussing the case. Qin Shuman took the initiative to say, "If you''re willing, I can come to the Investigation Bureau with you tomorrow night to examine the body for Cataclysmic traces."


    "See if I can provide you with new clues and directions."


    Startled by Qin Shuman''s proposal, Qiu Tu replied with a hint of surprise, "Would you really be able to do that?"


    "With both your identities, it seems quite difficult for you to enter the Investigation Bureau, right?"

 Chapter 82 Obtaining Key Clues (7k)

    ```Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman smiled.


    She placed her hands behind her back, stood on tiptoe, and raised her eyebrows with a bit of smugness, "I have my ways~~"


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu roughly guessed: This woman most likely had found a new possession target.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt.... that being with this woman wouldn''t be too bad¡ªothers at most could play with uniform seduction, but she... she could let you experience every woman in the whole world!


    No matter whether you like lolitas or prefer mature ladies. Even if you were so inclined to drive a tank, she could satisfy you!


    As Qiu Tu was indulging in his wild thoughts, Qin Shuman continued,


    "Also, I was planning to head to the Investigation Bureau tomorrow night anyway. It''s actually safer to be with you," she said.


    "I might even need your protection then."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality. He nodded slightly, "Don''t worry."


    "As long as I''m still breathing, I will definitely...."


    "Run away and signal you for help!"


    Qin Shuman laughed and punched Qiu Tu, "You and your smart mouth!"


    Afterwards, the two chatted casually for a bit more, and Qin Shuman politely declined Qiu Tu''s invitation to come over to his place.


    Even after Qiu Tu claimed that the mouse at his home could twerk, she spat at him and blushed as she said,


    "I suspect you want me to twerk on you."


    Qiu Tu cried foul at this accusation and turned the tables, accusing Qin Shuman of being a hypocrite!


    Qin Shuman rolled her eyes at him, not bothering to respond.


    Before parting, they exchanged "gifts."


    Qin Shuman gave Qiu Tu a compact communicator.


    According to Qin Shuman, this tiny communicator was specially made by the Security Department, with a unique number that the Investigation Bureau couldn''t trace back to Qiu Tu. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With this communicator, it would be more convenient for the two of them to contact each other privately without having to borrow someone else''s communicator.


    Qiu Tu gladly accepted this little gift, then reciprocated with a "small note" for Qin Shuman.


    Written on the note were two names: Wang Xiong (Ah-Xiong) and Hou San (Monkey).


    These were the two names Qin Shuman promised Qiu Tu for exemption from exams to enter The military.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s "gift," Qin Shuman wanted to roll her eyes to the heavens, lamenting her misfortune in people.


    However, she didn''t reject it and instead solemnly placed the note in her pocket, then reminded Qiu Tu to ensure the two would report to The military the next day.


    This way, watching Qin Shuman slowly vanish around the street corner, Qiu Tu felt a trace of melancholy, then he shoved his hands in his pockets and turned toward the small diner.


    As he walked back into the courtyard of the diner, the boisterous atmosphere hit him immediately.


    Drinks were on their third round; it was the liveliest moment, with about a dozen young people calling out to their friends and clinking cups in the courtyard.


    And seeing Qiu Tu return, the brothers on-site greeted him in turn.


    Qiu Tu nodded to each of them in acknowledgment, then was surprised to find that Ah-Tai had shown up at some point. And... he hadn''t just come by himself; he had dragged Fang Ming along, too.


    Qiu Tu cast a surprised glance at Fang Ming and saw that Fang Ming''s face was filled with helplessness and innocence.


    Clearly... he had been dragged there by Ah-Tai.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "Ah-Tai, how come Agent Fang is here?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, a flushed Ah-Tai quickly stood up and said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu! Fang Ming was dragged here by me."


    He slapped Fang Ming''s shoulder vigorously with his huge palm, causing Fang Ming to shrink back, "Brother Tu, let me tell you, Fang Ming is reliable, a man of loyalty!"


    "I feel, we can make him our brother!"


    Listening to his introduction, and the direct way he addressed him, those who knew the inside story understood that Fang Ming was his captain, while those who didn''t would probably think he was Fang Ming''s captain!


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu looked at Fang Ming.


    Fang Ming was awkward and innocent. He shot a pleading look at Qiu Tu, but before Qiu Tu could step in, Ah-Tai had already hoisted him up!


    "Come on, Fang Ming! A toast to Brother Tu!" And with that, he thrust a cup of liquor from the table into Fang Ming''s hand.


    The brothers on-site started to hoot and holler at the sight.


    Fang Ming''s embarrassment grew.


    He wasn''t a three-year-old, he knew this was not just any drink but a rite of brotherhood. Once he drank this, it would mean acknowledging Qiu Tu as the big brother, and he would have to heed any call from Qiu Tu!


    So there he stood, uncertain whether to drink or not.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t let Ah-Tai continue on and took the initiative to take the cup from Fang Ming''s hand, saying with a smile, "Perfect, I''m thirsty, thanks for the drink, you two."


    After that, he downed Fang Ming''s cup in one gulp.


    Relieved, Fang Ming showed a grateful expression to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu then patted Ah-Tai''s shoulder, indicated for him to sit, and inquired about what was going on.


    A few drinks in, Ah-Tai really forgot about making Fang Ming pay homage and began to grumble.


    "Damn, that kid really thinks he''s something!"


    "Look who in the entire team respects him?"


    From Ah-Tai''s bits and pieces of conversation, Qiu Tu got the gist of the situation he and Fang Ming had encountered that day.


    The matter was quite simple. In the past few days, a person with connections had joined the Special Service Department.


    No sooner had this connected individual joined than he was made a First Level Detective and acted high and mighty every day.


    Since he didn''t have his own squad yet, he would come and nitpick Fang Ming''s squad whenever he had nothing better to do.


    ```

 Chapter 82 Obtaining Key Clues (7k)_2

    Fang Ming''s team initially tolerated him, but who knew he would become more and more outrageous and excessive!This afternoon, during Fang Ming''s team''s training session, this privileged guy ran to the side again, folding his arms while nitpicking everything. If he wasn''t accusing Fang Ming of unprofessional training, he was criticizing the team members for their poor level. He even mocked them, saying that despite having the best equipment of the whole bureau, their combat ability was just so-so.


    Fang Ming''s team members were indeed furious at him, but they dared not speak out.


    Only Ah-Tai...


    Could he endure such humiliation? So he directly used his pot-sized fists to give that privileged guy a beating.


    Afterwards, that privileged guy went to the higher-ups of the Special Service Department to complain, and so... Ah-Tai was also detained by the senior officials, severely reprimanded, not only receiving a punishment but even solitary confinement was demanded.


    Since Ah-Tai got into trouble for standing up for Fang Ming, after the incident, Fang Ming had been running around doing everything he could to get Ah-Tai''s punishment revoked and his solitary confinement canceled.


    As a result, Ah-Tai felt that Fang Ming was very loyal and could be considered a brother. Thus, after he picked up Ah-Tai from solitary, he was dragged into joining this get-together.


    After recounting the events of tonight, Ah-Tai patted Fang Ming''s back forcefully and said with alcohol-laden breath,


    "Fang Ming, let me tell you, next time you encounter such an idiot, just go up and hit him! Don''t endure it! If something happens, Brother Tu''s got your back!"


    Ah-Tai spoke with a righteousness that suggested Qiu Tu was one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants.


    Fang Ming gave Qiu Tu an odd look, knowing that Ah-Tai was drunkenly fooling around, but still silently nodded in agreement.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled softly, taking a sip of his drink, and for some reason, felt that the two men had a bit of a ''couple'' vibe.


    Perhaps... in the future, Fang Ming could indeed be "subdued" by Ah-Tai, roped into his crew?


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also curiously asked, "By the way, what''s the name of that privileged guy? What kind of background does he have, to be so arrogant?"


    Ah-Tai scratched his head with his fan-sized hand, stammering, "Seems like his name was Tian, Tian..."


    Fang Ming took over, "Tian Xiaotian."


    Ah-Tai slapped his forehead, "Right! Tian Xiaotian! I heard his dad is the vice president of the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, and they''re having some in-depth cooperation with our bureau lately. The higher-ups in the bureau all have to cater to him, that''s why he''s so arrogant!"


    "Tian Xiaotian? Vice President Tian''s son?" Qiu Tu was momentarily taken aback.


    Then he shrewdly caught on to the key point in Ah-Tai''s words, "Vice President Tian is engaged in an in-depth cooperation with the bureau?"


    "What kind of cooperation?"


    Ah-Tai scratched his head, trying hard to recall, "I... I remember when I was beating him up, he did shout a lot, like who his dad is, and what kind of cooperation they''re undertaking with the Investigation Bureau, how he''s going to get me killed."


    "But... uh...."


    Ah-Tai forcefully slapped his forehead as if it could help him recall what Tian Xiaotian had said during the beating.


    After a moment, following another forceful slap, his expression suddenly brightened, and he said, "Oh, right! Something about communication monitoring cooperation!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly froze!


    A bolt of lightning flashed through his mind as he felt connections being made!


    He boldly combined all the information he knew and formed a hypothesis:


    The Investigation Bureau, as the maintainer of the city''s public security, obviously had a need to monitor the communication throughout the city.


    However, due to budget constraints, the Investigation Bureau had always been unable to set up surveillance over the entire city''s communications.


    Especially in recent times, Yan Chen and Jia Shu had lost crucial clues in several cases due to communication monitoring issues.


    So, they could only find ways to make up for this shortcoming themselves.


    As a result, just at this time, Vice President Tian''s mistress Yin Caimei fell into their hands.


    Vice President Tian was originally a major businessman in the communications industry and had intricate connections within the Sanctuary.


    Therefore, Yan Chen and Jia Shu seized the opportunity to reach an agreement with Vice President Tian: the Political Department would either actively allow or turn a blind eye to Yin Caimei''s execution, and in return, Vice President Tian would help the Investigation Bureau provide brand-new communication surveillance equipment!


    Because he understood the impact of Yin Caimei''s death, Jia Shu didn''t simply execute her but cleverly used her death to release false information and took the opportunity to check the Investigation Bureau''s scouts with the new equipment.


    The results of the action were of course remarkably effective, satisfying both Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Furthermore, as both sides were currently in the honeymoon phase of cooperation, Jia Shu was considering the case from the perspective of the other party, which led to his various odd actions and methods.


    And as the cooperation progressed and the trust between them was established, Vice President Tian''s son Tian Xiaotian naturally came to the Investigation Bureau and became a First Level Detective.


    Regarding Tian Xiaotian joining the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu had two guesses:


    If Tian Xiaotian was sent to the Investigation Bureau proactively by Vice President Tian, then it was very likely that Vice President Tian wanted to lean toward the Investigation Bureau and further deepen their relationship.


    However, if Tian Xiaotian joined the Investigation Bureau passively, then it was possible that Yan Chen and Jia Shu wanted to have a better hold on Vice President Tian, so Tian Xiaotian, while nominally a "relation placement," was in fact a "hostage."


    After obtaining the key clue, Qiu Tu instantly figured out all the odd aspects of the case!


    But having figured it out, he couldn''t help breaking out in a cold sweat.


    Indeed, one should never underestimate anyone who has climbed to a high position in this world!


    He had thought he took advantage of Master Qin Si''s escape to corner Yan Chen and Jia Shu, causing endless internal strife within the Qin Family, which was leaning towards Yan Chen, to the point where they could hardly protect themselves.


    Yet, who could have known that they would turn around and use the Security Department''s given excuse to use Yin Caimei''s case, clear out the scouts within the Investigation Bureau, secretly expand their influence, and become even stronger!


    Such tactics were frightening!


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed.


    He found that he really couldn''t let Yan Chen and Jia Shu continue to develop like this.


    He had to cooperate with the Security Department, Liu Fuping, Deputy Director Tang, and other forces. He must uncover the truth of this case and prune the influence of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Otherwise, even if he survived this crisis, once they completed their expansion and came to their senses. If they discovered his own irregularities, he would be the one to die! S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s gaze deepened, and he couldn''t help but think of the beautiful young widow Liu Fuping.


    He wondered how her plan was going now?


    [10 days (the closure time of Yin Caimei''s case)]


    .....


    Meanwhile,


    In a high-end villa near the Investigation Bureau.


    Two bodies were entwined with each other...


    One of the women had a creamy white complexion, a voluptuous and soft body, with the charm of a mature woman.


    The other had a healthy wheat-colored complexion, short hair, and an appearance of spirited elegance...


    ---------

 Chapter 83 Launching the Second Tier Loyalty Game (7k for Monthly Tickets)

    After half an hour of tossing and turning.The two women finally collapsed into each other''s arms, exhausted.


    Liu Fuping held Tang Feifei tenderly, her eyes too tired to open properly.


    Yet Tang Feifei''s energy seemed to remain robust, and even where Liu Fuping didn''t notice, her eyes flickered with an orange glow.


    That glow lasted for a few minutes before slowly retreating into the depths of her eyes.


    As Tang Feifei held Liu Fuping''s fair body, her wheat-colored skin created a stark contrast.


    Tang Feifei quietly relished the afterglow for a moment, then looked down at Liu Fuping and asked in a low voice, "You seemed especially proactive tonight."


    Her voice, a contralto, lacked the sharpness of ordinary women and instead carried a weightiness of authority, and unexpectedly harmonious to the ear.


    Liu Fuping clung to her panther-like agile body, her entire being fluid, "No~~ it''s just that the new boss is easy to get along with, so I saved a lot of energy, enough to spend some on you~"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Is your new boss Qiu... Qiu Tu?"


    At this, Liu Fuping nodded and feigned curiosity, "Does Director Tang also know him?"


    Tang Feifei hummed in acknowledgment, then said, "I''ve only heard of him."


    Tang Feifei''s gaze became somewhat reminiscent, "I heard he was originally one of Old Bai''s men and was highly regarded by him."


    "Later, with Old Bai''s recommendation, he successfully climbed onto Yan Chen''s good graces."


    "He''s quite talented; at first, he did all the dirty work for Yan Chen, never complaining."


    "Later, when he got an opportunity, he immediately showed his capabilities. Not only did he protect Yan Chen''s mistress during a shootout, but he also gained the support of the Qin Family for Yan Chen."


    "Because of this, he earned Jia Shu''s appreciation and was recruited into the Political Department, where he is now being groomed."


    Liu Fuping hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to have such a high opinion of Qiu Tu. She was stunned for a second before continuing, "Is that so?"


    "But... I somehow feel that Chief Qiu doesn''t seem to get along well with Secretary Bai, the Bureau Chief, and Minister Jia?"


    "And in the Political Department, he doesn''t seem to be groomed as a key person."


    Her words successfully piqued Tang Feifei''s curiosity. Her clear eyes glanced at Liu Fuping as she inquired, "What do you mean? Have you discovered something else?"


    Liu Fuping tread carefully, "I can''t really explain."


    "Ever since Chief Qiu entered the Political Department, I''ve been under his command."


    "I''ve noticed that he doesn''t seem very happy. Especially after taking on the current case, he''s been quite restless."


    "Today, after he reviewed the case files and conducted the autopsy, he immediately made phone calls to consult others. And after those consultations, he sat in an empty conference room, quietly smoking, without a word."


    "Moreover, I''ve noticed that every time he enters Minister Jia''s office, he''s on edge as if he''s afraid of being plotted against."


    As a trained multi-faceted spy, Liu Fuping had her skills, although due to lack of time, many were still a bit rusty. But she possessed the basic abilities to gather intelligence and steer conversations.


    She knew that if she brought up the "Yin Caimei case" right off the bat, Tang Feifei would not only be uninterested but might become suspicious of her.


    So, she first dangled Qiu Tu as bait to catch Tang Feifei''s interest, encouraging Tang Feifei to investigate and approach Qiu Tu, making it easier for her and Qiu Tu to execute their plan.


    As expected, after hearing Liu Fuping''s words, although Tang Feifei nonchalantly patted Liu Fuping''s butt, saying, "Enough, let''s not talk shop in bed, come on, let''s do it again."


    But as she turned, her eyes clearly flickered, revealing a trace of deep thought....


    Liu Fuping keenly captured this signal. Comforted, she once again immersed herself in the arduous task at hand.....


    ...


    The dinner at the small restaurant continued until midnight.


    It''s quite common for a group of single young people, all without girlfriends, to eat and drink into the night.


    Even, if it weren''t for the fact that they all got jobs or positions through Qiu Tu, it would be normal to drink all night long.


    When the gathering dispersed, Fang Ming took the opportunity while Ah-Tai was absent to secretly toast Qiu Tu.


    Fang Ming''s tolerance for alcohol was clearly average. But he... seemed to be easily overwhelmed by Ah-Tai, never able to refuse, so he was fed drink after drink from the very beginning.


    Thankfully, Qiu Tu noticed Fang Ming''s predicament and intervened, preventing him from becoming utterly drunk.


    Additionally, since Fang Ming visited suddenly without informing Qiu Tu ahead of time, he had broken protocol.


    Hence, he took the initiative to offer Qiu Tu a toast before leaving.


    "Chief Qiu, I''m sorry about today. And thank you for tonight. Uh... I''m not great with words, let the drink speak for me," Fang Ming said.


    After finishing his words, Fang Ming drained his glass in one gulp.


    Qiu Tu smiled and replied, "Ah-Tai is someone I''ve watched grow up since he was a child. He''s not bad, just very enthusiastic with people he likes. Please be understanding of that."


    "Now that he works under you, please take good care of him."


    "Let the drink speak for me."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu too finished the drink in his glass in one go.


    After the toast, the two exchanged a look and couldn''t help but laugh.


    Right when the atmosphere between them was warm, Ah-Tai suddenly emerged from somewhere, bringing his face close to the two men and strangely asked, "What are you laughing at?"


    He looked suspiciously at the two, "Are you talking behind my back?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming exchanged a glance, then laughed even louder.


    Ah-Tai was quite a character; seeing the two laughing so joyously, he didn''t get upset but rather scratched his head foolishly and joined in with a carefree laugh.


    For a moment, the yard was filled with more and more laughter.


    And so, the little gathering ended happily amidst laughter...


    ....


    There was no drunk driving in this world, and on the roads in the early hours, there wasn''t even a single silhouette in sight. Therefore, after the gathering dispersed, Qiu Tu took the initiative to drive the furthest member, Fang Ming, home.


    Listening to Fang Ming''s drowsy directions, Qiu Tu meandered through the dimly lit streets.


    It took over half an hour before Qiu Tu finally reached Fang Ming''s residence.


    What surprised him was that Fang Ming actually lived in Longshan Road.


    From the unique name of this street, one could discern its extraordinary status in Xinjie City¡ªunlike the "Old Alley Street," "Xiafang Street," and "Nanxiang Street" where Qiu Tu and the others lived.


    Other people lived on "Longshan Road."


    This was the largest and most exclusive villa district in Xinjie City, and it had been the center of power before the city was established, housing all the prominent figures of the time.


    Within lived families second only to the Qin Family, wealthy merchants involved in various industries, and gang leaders with tens of thousands of followers.


    Even though these former notables had gradually lost their influence with the establishment of Xinjie City, Longshan Road still held a pivotal position in the entire city.


    At the entrance to Longshan Road, there were armed private security patrols.


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue driving forward but stopped the car instead.


    Fang Ming, who was sitting in the passenger seat, had somewhat sobered up by then and, slightly tipsy, said to Qiu Tu, "Thank you, Chief Qiu, for your hospitality tonight. I''ll head home now."


    "If you have time, you must come over for a visit. My old man has always been very interested in you."


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "I certainly will if I get the chance."


    Fang Ming affirmed with a "hmm," opened the car door, got out, and walked towards Longshan Road.


    The patrolling armed personnel were clearly familiar with him and let him pass with a friendly greeting.


    The streets inside Longshan Road were brightly lit by street lamps, illuminating Fang Ming''s path home in the dead of night. Qiu Tu lit a cigarette and watched him leave before driving back into the darkness.


    The dim car lights shone on the uneven road, but Qiu Tu drove extremely smoothly....


    Back on Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu parked his car and strolled back to his cramped, dilapidated home.


    The lights were still on inside his home.


    Pushing the door open, Shen Lingshuang was adorably asleep on the sofa, with two dishes on the table, already cold.


    Seeing the scene, Qiu Tu''s gaze slightly fluctuated, then he stepped forward, picked up Shen Lingshuang, and brought her back to the bedroom.


    Shen Lingshuang''s body stiffened for a moment, then her nose twitched, probably catching Qiu Tu''s scent, and finally, she settled comfortably in his arms and fell back to sleep.


    After placing the girl on the bed and tucking her in, Qiu Tu took off his clothes, washed up, turned off the lights, and went to bed.


    Lying in bed, Qiu Tu stretched out his arm to embrace Shen Lingshuang. Shen Lingshuang nuzzled into his arms to find a comfortable spot, and then fell asleep again.


    Yet, Qiu Tu didn''t sleep. Holding the girl, lying in bed, he recalled the lengthy day he''d had.


    Today, he''d been through far too much too quickly for him to keep up with it all.


    It started in the morning when he woke up to discover that the "Yin Caimei case" was a trap, forcing him to rush to rescue Secretary Bai.


    Next was the interrogation of Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and their cohort, reaping a wave of their loyalty and making them his team members.


    After that, he discovered that Yin Caimei''s death very likely involved Yan Chen, the Political Department, and Jia Shu. He might have been made a scapegoat.


    And finally, he had unexpectedly learned of Vice President Tian''s collaboration with the Investigation Bureau from Ah-Tai, completing the last piece of the entire puzzle.


    With such a series of twists and turns, Qiu Tu was admittedly worn out.


    However, even so, he couldn''t rest because he had one last task to perform: to initiate the Loyalty Game.


    Without taking small steps, there can be no journey of a thousand miles. Every day, a bit more loyalty, a bit more clue, and maybe in a week, a month, there will be a qualitative change.


    Therefore, no matter how tired he was, Qiu Tu did not forget his powerful Golden Finger.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also summoned the Loyalty Game panel.


    When the panel appeared, Qiu Tu noticed that tonight''s Loyalty Game had undergone significant changes from the night before.


    Besides Ah-Xiong and Ah-Kun, whose loyalty had successfully surpassed 90, becoming the third and fourth subordinates after Ah-Tai and Eagle to exceed a loyalty of 90. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The members of Cao Dabiao''s squad that Qiu Tu had harvested today had half their loyalty also surpassing 60, appearing on the Loyalty Game panel.


    Looking at the more than twenty names on the panel, Qiu Tu felt a sense of accomplishment.


    It might be a small number, but they were his first core team in this world.


    And he believed that as his status rose and his power grew, the number of people on these two lists would increase.


    In time, he would have more and more followers in Xinjie City, in the Planning Area, in the Sanctuary, and in the entire Cataclysm-ravaged world! His every word and deed would have a profound impact on the world!


    Immersed in quiet contemplation of the future for a while, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and then started to inspect the Loyalty Game.


    Last night, Qiu Tu knew that the Loyalty Game had two levels.


    The first level was for those with a loyalty of 60, and the second was for 90.


    Last night, Qiu Tu had initiated the first-level game. Its effect was to arrange for subordinates with over 60 loyalty to engage in a "combat game" with other subordinates, earning various rewards.


    Today, of course, he was going to try the second-level game.


    He wanted to know what changes would occur in the Loyalty Game once loyalty reached 90.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu clicked on Eagle''s name and selected the second-level loyalty game.....


    ---


    The previous chapter was blocked twice, and I have deleted several descriptions at the beginning. It does not affect the plot.

 Chapter 84 Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug (7k Requests for Follow-Up Reads)

    With a click, the introduction to the second-tier game popped up in front of Qiu Tu."As a boss, you can assign one subordinate with a loyalty above 90 to ''work overtime'' every night."


    "The ''overtime'' subordinate will go to the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' to salvage."


    "The salvage area will correspond to the location in the real world within the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Therefore, each salvage operation gives you a chance to obtain ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Cataclysmic Treasures,'' and ''Cataclysmic Creatures'' that exist in your area as rewards."


    "And each time you salvage, there''s also a chance that the subordinate will be permeated by Catastrophe Power, increasing the probability of Cataclysm Awakening."


    "Note 1: The loyalty of salvaged Cataclysmic Creatures cannot be guaranteed, so please be sure you can handle them before releasing them."


    "Note 2: Non-Cataclysmic subordinates can only salvage once a week. If done more frequently, there is a risk of Degeneration, Cataclysm, and so on..."


    After reading the introduction to the second game, Qiu Tu blinked, and his brain quickly made a simple analogy: A different-dimension version of Gold Miner?


    My subordinates work during the day, and at night, they have to laboriously salvage Cataclysmic Potions, Cataclysmic Props, and even Cataclysmic Creatures for me, just like gold miners?


    That''s just too fort.... too utterly conscienceless!


    Am I really not going to be lynched?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu silently made excuses for himself: Well, working overtime in dreams probably doesn''t count as overtime, right?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate and immediately selected Eagle to start the second-tier game.


    As Qiu Tu confirmed his choice, the very next second, a small screen popped up in front of him.


    In the screen was a chibi top-down view of Xinjie City, and a pixelated little figure with a hooked nose was standing on the tallest building in Xinjie City, casting a fishing net down with his hand.


    The net in his hands was enormous, covering the entire Xinjie City in one sweep.


    But perhaps because the net was too big, after several minutes of strenuous effort to pull the net back up, it came up empty.


    Thus, he stamped his foot in annoyance and continued to cast his net....


    Cast, retrieve, cast, retrieve, the animation repeated over and over.


    Qiu Tu watched quietly for a while, knowing that there wouldn''t be any results in such a short time, so he temporarily closed the game screen and prepared to open the first-tier "Fighting Game" from the loyalty game.


    He opened the "Fighting Game," and just like last night, selected Ah-Tai and Wang Xi.


    The memory fragment he obtained this morning helped Qiu Tu glimpse a side of Wang Xi unknown to others.


    So Qiu Tu also wanted to delve deeper into this mysterious subordinate who was "a Pharmacist by day, a motorbike thug by night."


    To see what organization he really belonged to, and what that organization was typically up to....


    After arranging the two loyalty games, Qiu Tu''s tasks for the day were finally completely finished.


    He yawned, cuddling Shen Lingshuang''s small, soft, fragrant body, and slowly fell asleep....


    ......


    The Blue Moon hung high in the night sky, casting gossamer moonlight, quietly illuminating the new city of Xinjie.


    But for some reason, there seemed to be mysterious fluctuations occurring in Xinjie City tonight.


    The fluctuations were very regular, occurring every few minutes, and ordinary beings couldn''t detect them at all. Even the Cataclysmics or Cataclysmic Creatures were led to believe it was just the normal undulations of the Boundless Heart Sea....


    But if one could see the screen of the Loyalty Game, they would realize that the pattern of the fluctuations matched exactly with Eagle''s net casting and retrieving.


    It was as if someone was really salvaging something from the entire Xinjie City in a higher dimension....


    And so, the night passed without incident.


    The next day, Qiu Tu was awakened by someone.


    He opened his bleary eyes, lifted his head, and saw Shen Lingshuang bending over prodding his lower half... S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu looked at her blankly and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Upon hearing the question, Shen Lingshuang''s ears turned a bit red. She whispered shyly, "You''re hard."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu turned over with annoyance, "That means I''ve been dead for 12-16 hours."


    "Leave me alone, let me ''die'' a little longer."


    Shen Lingshuang made an "Ah?" sound, her mouth gaping wide as she stared at Qiu Tu in disbelief.


    After a long moment, she finally realized that Qiu Tu was referencing "rigor mortis."


    She got annoyed and hit Qiu Tu a few times with a pillow, "You''re disgusting! You''re really disgusting!"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t be bothered with her.


    She puffed her cheeks, pouted, and muttered softly, "Insensitive." Then she hopped out of bed to go to the bathroom.


    But her departure left Qiu Tu unable to fall back asleep. He turned over, opened his eyes, and stared at the ceiling for a while.


    Then he called out the Loyalty Game panel, ready to check out the spoils of the previous night.


    Upon opening the Loyalty Game, the first thing he saw was the settlement screen of the "Fighting Game."


    Unsurprisingly, Ah-Tai had once again smashed Wang Xi to bits.


    But perhaps because he had drunk alcohol last night, the pixelated figure of Ah-Tai in the screen also had a "battered" left eye, which turned purplish.


    In the settlement screen, a drunken Ah-Tai was burping with a hammer in hand, stepping on Wang Xi.


    Wang Xi, meanwhile, lay on the ground, clutching a brick, crying "wah wah."


    ''The outcome screen actually changes?''


    ''And... it seems to vary according to the real state of the subordinates?''


    Qiu Tu was surprised while checking the game''s spoils.


    Last night''s haul was relatively average, just a mere 2 points of loyalty, and there was nothing else.


    Qiu Tu felt a little short-changed....


    Drinking indeed caused trouble; he decided not to bring Ah-Tai to the next gathering.


    With a strong sense of dissatisfaction, Qiu Tu closed the "Fighting Game" and checked the "Salvage Game."


    Salvage Game''s settlement screen was rather simple¡ªit was just Eagle''s pixelated figure, exhausted and panting on the ground. There was nothing else special.


    Qiu Tu initially thought this was a failed salvage.


    However, when he was about to close the settlement animation disappointedly, he noticed that next to Eagle''s figure, there was surprisingly a small pink bottle of potion.


    The icon was extremely small, and if it weren''t for Qiu Tu''s sharp eyes, he probably would have missed it.


    Curiously, Qiu Tu clicked on it, and sure enough, a prompt popped up in front of him,


    [Obtained Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug]


    Qiu Tu: ??


    What''s this?


    Qiu Tu tried to check the description of the potion.


    ''Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug''


    ''Potion Description: A Cataclysmic Potion made from Cataclysm Materials such as Mandrake Flower and Succubs of Water, through a "Mystery" process used by Cataclysmics.''


    ''Potion Effect: Simply apply a small amount to the neck, and you will gain a half-hour effect of enchanting allure. Anyone who approaches you will involuntarily let down their guard to some extent and feel a certain fondness for you.''


    Seeing the effect of the pink potion, Qiu Tu''s mouth hung open slightly, somewhat stunned...


    This... thing is quite frightening.


    It felt akin to some banned substances.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind went back to the "Salvage Game" introduction from last night.


    The introduction said that the items salvaged weren''t conjured from thin air but existed in reality...


    So, did Cataclysmics in Xinjie City secretly concoct this potion?


    And thinking about the identities of these Cataclysmics, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed tightly.


    Most of the Cataclysmics in Xinjie City were mid to high-level officials, after all. What were they concocting this potion for?


    Qiu Tu could not shake the feeling that something strange was brewing in Xinjie City recently, as if some event was imminent...


    After pondering quietly for a while, Qiu Tu came back to his senses, silently put away the Cataclysmic Potion, and didn''t use it right away.


    The potion seemed like it could only be used twenty or thirty times, with one less use with each application, so it couldn''t be wasted carelessly.


    Qiu Tu planned to find an opportunity today to try it out on a suitable person...


    [9 days (time left to close the Yin Caimei case)]


    ...


    He had breakfast with Shen Lingshuang.


    During the meal, Qiu Tu also assigned Shen Lingshuang a task.


    The task was simple, which was to have Shen Lingshuang scavenge for gold in the black market.


    Now that Qiu Tu had money, besides needing the money to generate more money, he needed to convert the money into power as much as possible.


    Among Qiu Tu''s small team, apart from himself, only Shen Lingshuang had knowledge of potions and treasures.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu decided to arrange for Ah-Shui and Da Tou to protect Shen Lingshuang while she scavenged for Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysmic Potions, or Cataclysmic Props in the black market.


    Even if they couldn''t procure these overly precious items, Shen Lingshuang could appropriately buy some ordinary herbal materials and practice alchemy at home.


    In times of chaos, the most sought-after items besides weapons are potions. As long as the quality isn''t too shoddy, no matter how much is produced, various powers would scramble to buy them all.


    Hence, a Pharmacist is like a walking minting machine. Well... given that there are sufficient materials.


    Shen Lingshuang wasn''t surprised by Qiu Tu''s arrangement. Since the night she decided to stay, she had anticipated her future work.


    However, what did surprise her was that Qiu Tu directly gave her 15 Little Goldfish as funds for purchasing.


    You should know that 15 Little Goldfish are equivalent to the purchasing power of over 3 million. Not to mention a normal person''s lifetime expenses, it could even be used to hire a private armed force of around a hundred people.


    And yet, Qiu Tu just casually gave them to her?


    Wasn''t that too much trust in her?


    Thus, touched beyond measure, Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty surged another 3 points!


    Seeing the sharply increasing loyalty, Qiu Tu reassuringly released the Little Goldfish from his hand: he had been prepared to backtrack immediately in case Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty plummeted.


    Though the Loyalty Game doesn''t allow one to lock down subordinates'' loyalty, it does enable estimation of subordinates'' thoughts and intentions through real-time changes in loyalty.


    So, if Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty dropped sharply, planning to run away with the Little Goldfish, Qiu Tu would retract his offer promptly.


    After assigning Shen Lingshuang''s tasks and finishing breakfast, Qiu Tu embraced her, sketched out a few more big plans, and then drove to the Investigation Bureau to work.


    The harvest from last night had opened up new lines of thought for the "Yin Caimei Case."


    He planned to strike while the iron was hot and delve deep into the truth of the "Yin Caimei Case," thoroughly scrambling Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s plans.


    But who knew that before he reached the Investigation Bureau, halfway there, a woman in an investigator''s uniform stopped him.


    Living two lifetimes, Qiu Tu had never seen a beautiful woman flagging down a car, especially not an investigator.


    Therefore, he stopped the car, rolled down the window, and asked curiously, "Miss, is there something you need? Looking for a lift?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the woman lightly shook her head and then said, "Chief Qiu, I am Director Tang''s personal secretary."


    "I am waiting here because Director Tang has a message for you."


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned.


    Director Tang?


    Tang Feifei...?


    Qiu Tu''s mind raced. Could it be... Tang Feifei took the bait?


    It seems Liu Fuping worked very hard last night. Otherwise, Tang Feifei wouldn''t come looking for me so eagerly early in the morning.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What message does Director Tang have for me?"


    The beautiful assistant looked at Qiu Tu, smiled slightly, "Director Tang said, she would like to have a chat with you. Perhaps there are other solutions to your current predicament."


    -----

 Chapter 85 Second of the Twelve Types of Women (7k)

    Hearing the words of the beautiful assistant before him, Qiu Tu was once again certain that Liu Fuping must have done her job well.He guessed that last night, Liu Fuping might have used some means to hint to Tang Feifei about her own predicament and the issues with the "Yin Caimei case".


    And this had successfully piqued Tang Feifei''s curiosity.


    He surmised that after learning of this information last night, Tang Feifei probably had someone conduct a cursory investigation into the case.


    The power of a Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau in the Planning Area was not to be underestimated; many issues that were extremely difficult for Qiu Tu to investigate appeared transparent before her.


    Therefore, in just one night, she must have found some fishy parts in the case and confirmed that the intelligence Liu Fuping told her was true.


    Hence, she took the initiative this morning to send an assistant to intercept him on his way, wanting to collaborate with him, or rather... to recruit him.


    After running through the events in his mind, Qiu Tu also roughly had a plan.


    He smiled and said to Tang Feifei''s beautiful assistant, "Thank you for Director Tang''s generous offer. But ''a servant does not serve two masters'', and I must respectfully decline."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu didn''t even close the car window before he stepped on the gas and left the place.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departure without a hint of face-saving for her, the intercepting assistant was full of surprise.


    As one of the four highest-ranking officials in the Investigation Bureau, who in Xinjie City would dare to offend Tang Feifei?


    Even Yan Chen, although she was suppressing Tang Feifei behind the scenes, still had to give Tang Feifei some face publicly to avoid being seen by the Sanctuary as tyrannical and overbearing.


    So, as Tang Feifei''s assistant, the female assistant was long used to everyone welcoming Tang Feifei with a smile and being at her beck and call.


    But... Director Tang personally invited Qiu Tu, and he just drove away?


    This truly shocked the assistant.


    She watched incredulously as Qiu Tu drove off into the distance, then picked up her communicator and dialed Tang Feifei.


    The phone connected, and Tang Feifei''s distinctive low female voice came from the handset, "Is the matter settled?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s somewhat authoritative voice, the assistant swallowed hard and then cautiously said, "Director... Qiu Tu has declined."


    "Declined?" Tang Feifei sought confirmation, then suddenly laughed.


    The assistant thought that Tang Feifei was laughing out of extreme anger, so she hurriedly showed her loyalty, "Director, I think that Qiu Tu is just asking for a slap in the face!"


    "You personally invited him, and yet he dared to decline, as if he didn''t take you seriously at all."


    "If you ask me, we should investigate him, see if there are any faults to be found, and directly bring him down!"


    "Enough," Tang Feifei cut the assistant off and then said coolly, "Stop using your pig brain to guess at what I''m thinking." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei might indeed be in a good mood because she rarely explained in a softer voice, "Actually, after receiving that intelligence last night, I felt something was odd: everything seemed a bit too coincidental."


    "However, upon inspecting the case, there really were fishy parts. I didn''t want to let go of such an opportunity lightly."


    "Thus, today I had you invite him. In truth, the invitation was fake, the probing was real."


    "You need to understand who he is."


    "The confidant of Yan Chen, a key member of Secretary Bai''s faction, a subordinate valued by Jia Shu."


    "Even though he seems to have had some conflicts with Secretary Bai recently and the case he took on also encountered problems, his ability to become a section chief and progress to his current position relied entirely on the support of these three people."


    "So, how could he possibly betray them just because a high-ranking official came looking for him?"


    "Therefore, if he had really accepted my invitation, that would have suggested that this matter might very well be a trap."


    "As for his refusal of me now, on the contrary, it''s a good thing."


    After hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the assistant suddenly understood.


    She quickly flattered Tang Feifei, "Director, how wise! How thorough you are in your considerations!"


    After the flattery, she lowered her voice and probed, "But, Director, now that we''ve proven it''s not a trap, Qiu Tu has left. How do we continue to make contact with him?"


    Tang Feifei said coolly, "No trouble at all. Although he declined you, he''s still aware that I extended an olive branch to him."


    "So, with his intelligence, once he returns to the Bureau, he will surely inquire about me and weigh the pros and cons cautiously."


    "As long as there is something fishy with that case, and it''s likely he can''t handle it, he definitely won''t let go of this lifeline I''ve offered."


    "So, let''s give him some time, contact him again tonight or tomorrow."


    "Don''t worry, the fish will bite eventually!"


    After speaking, Tang Feifei said in her distinctive low female voice, "Alright, come back now. Don''t embarrass yourself out there."


    "Yes," the assistant quickly responded.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, who was driving towards the Investigation Bureau, was also organizing a "fishing plan".


    Only... unlike Tang Feifei who was fishing for the case, he was fishing for Tang Feifei.


    Just as Tang Feifei had analyzed, Qiu Tu knew her first invitation was definitely a test.


    As a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, he could not accept.


    This was not only inconsistent with his persona, but also not conducive to his own fishing for Tang Feifei....


    Although Tang Feifei was the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, she was also a woman.


    As long as she was a woman, Qiu Tu could use the "Emotional Fraud Manual" from his previous life, which recorded "12 types of women, 36 corresponding strategies, and 108 ways to enhance affection".


    According to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Tang Feifei most likely fell into one of the 12 types of women in the "Emotional Fraud Manual" ¡ª either an Action-Oriented Person or a Rational Planner.


    Both types of women have one thing in common: they are particularly enterprising, ambitious, and they can very easily become strong, independent women.


    The difference is that an "Action-Oriented Person" needs to be more confident and strong, full of enthusiasm for work and career.


    While a "Rational Planner" tends to be more composed and independent, leaning towards rationality rather than emotion in their actions.


    But no matter which of these two types, both can be dealt with by using the "36 Strategies," specifically the technique of "To Catch and Release Deliberately."


    To put it simply and directly, such powerful women who hold authority and are career-driven are unlikely to be interested in ordinary men.


    Therefore, it''s necessary to provoke their competitive spirit and desire to conquer, making them feel like there''s a chance, yet they find themselves unable to control the situation each time.


    This consistent let-down, the frustration of repeated hunting failures, and the ongoing pursuit of success will gradually cause them to lose control, until they eventually fall completely into the emotional trap.


    Though the purpose of that booklet was to deceive women''s emotions, Qiu Tu felt it would have the same effect when used in business matters.


    Thus, his strategy for Tang Feifei was "To Catch and Release Deliberately."


    He would cooperate with Tang Feifei, but he couldn''t let her control the pace. He would give her a taste of success, but after each sweet taste, he would withdraw.


    Stir up her competitive spirit, her desire to conquer, give her the thrill of the chase, and let her slowly sink into this whirlwind of storms...


    This was Qiu Tu''s plan!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu slowly drove to the Investigation Bureau.


    Parking the car and sitting inside, Qiu Tu continued to contemplate:


    Regarding the Cataclysmic Potion, the Mandragora Love Drug, he received that morning: in order to better execute his plan, Qiu Tu was prepared to use it on Tang Feifei, but... not yet.


    Because... there''s a very high chance that Tang Feifei is a Cataclysmic.


    Using a Cataclysmic Potion in front of a Cataclysmic whose identity is important yet unclear, Qi Tu was unsure if some unpredictable accidents might occur.


    So, he had to test it twice in advance.


    As for the targets of the experiment, he had already chosen them long ago...


    The first target was right at the Investigation Bureau...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu didn''t delay.


    He got out of the car, locked it, and then went straight to the Special Service Department...


    The Special Service Department was on the first floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    The reason it''s on such a low floor is not because it''s undervalued, but rather because they''ve established seven or eight training fields behind the Bureau building, which makes the first floor more convenient for their training.


    Arriving at the Special Service Department, Qiu Tu pretended to be looking for someone while secretly searching for his target.


    After wandering around for more than half an hour and almost catching the attention of the Special Service Detectives, Qiu Tu finally found his target¡ªTian Xiaotian.


    Yes, after obtaining the Mandragora Love Drug, Qiu Tu''s first reaction was not to use it on Tang Feifei, but on Tian Xiaotian.


    After all... no one said that Cataclysmic Potions couldn''t be used on the same sex...


    As for why he used the potion on Tian Xiaotian.


    The reason is simple: Compared to the shrewd Tang Feifei, Tian Xiaotian, who could get into fights with the fool Ah-Tai, was easier to deal with and thus a suitable test subject.


    Moreover, Tian Xiaotian is the son of Vice President Tian, and on the surface, Qiu Tu is a "confidant" of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, naturally providing a foundation for building a good relationship.


    Plus, considering Yin Caimei is Tian Xiaotian''s stepmother and Vice President Tian is a key suspect, choosing Tian Xiaotian as the test subject might yield valuable information.


    The only thing Qiu Tu didn''t expect was... he was already at his desk waiting, and Tian Xiaotian was still late, making him wait in vain for half an hour.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu stood not far away, observing his first target.


    Tian Xiaotian''s appearance almost fit Qiu Tu''s stereotype of a rich merchant''s son: chubby, round, weighing probably about 200 pounds.


    From this weight, it''s clear that the father-son relationship is good. After all, in times of material scarcity, one could not grow so plump without a strong bond.


    There truly wasn''t a hint of lack of love on him.


    And yet, arriving half an hour late for work, Tian Xiaotian still brought a bunch of snacks: all luxury items from the Sanctuary. In Xinjie City, a pack could be traded for a bag of rice.


    Being late for half an hour didn''t rush Tian Xiaotian; he waddled to the Special Service Department, punched in, and then wobbled his chubby body towards the training field.


    Qiu Tu followed him, then stealthily took out the "Mandragora Love Drug," dropping a drop and rubbing it on his own neck.


    The moment the "Mandragora Love Drug" touched his neck, Qiu Tu distinctly felt as though a mysterious power came from the void, enveloping him.


    But when he tried to calmly perceive it, he found that the fluctuation had disappeared, as if it were just an illusion.


    Since the effect only lasted for 30 minutes, Qiu Tu didn''t delay any further. He jogged along an alternate path to get ahead to the intersection, then walked toward Tian Xiaotian''s direction.


    Seeing Tian Xiaotian from afar, Qiu Tu suddenly became possessed by an acting god and began to curse quietly, "Damn it, what a piece of crap! A Third-Level Detective trying to act tough with me! Who the hell do you think you are!"


    "And who''s that Ah-Tai? So damn... I think it''d be better to call him too stupid!"


    While cursing Ah-Tai, Qiu Tu''s performance was tinged with a bit of the disappointment from this morning''s "Loyalty Game," making it exceptionally realistic.


    This immediately caught Tian Xiaotian''s attention.


    Especially after hearing the keyword "Ah-Tai," Tian Xiaotian''s ears perked up.


    He stopped Qiu Tu and asked boldly, "Bro, you got a problem with Ah-Tai too?"


    For a First Level Detective to behave like this toward a Deputy Staff was extremely rude.


    But Qiu Tu pretended not to notice and went along with it, "Yeah? I''ve got a problem with Ah-Tai!"


    "What about it? Are you close with him?"


    At this point, the skilled actor Qiu Tu''s eyes even reddened as if he had seen an enemy, glaring at Tian Xiaotian.

 Chapter 86 Use (7k)

    Seeing Qiu Tu''s ferocious demeanor, Tian Xiaotian wasn''t annoyed. Instead, he excitedly said, "How could that be!""How could I possibly be on good terms with him!"


    Tian Xiaotian stated emphatically, "I have a grudge against him too!"


    Pointing to the bruises on his face and arms, he said, "Look, this, this, and this, were all caused by him hitting me!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s face was a picture of astonishment,


    "Disrespecting a superior is bad enough, but he even dares to fight??"


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Tian Xiaotian''s epaulette, "You''re a First Level Detective. Good lord, he even dares to assault a superior?! He''s really flipping the world upside down!"


    When Tian Xiaotian heard Qiu Tu''s words, he reflexively glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulette and uniform, and upon realizing that Qiu Tu was actually a Deputy Staff Director from the Political Department, he was belatedly shocked.


    But perhaps because his family had protected him too well, he was surprised, but not overly polite to Qiu Tu, just casually saluting, "Sir."


    Then he continued, "Sir, if he dares to offend you, hitting me is nothing."


    "I tell you, people from the lower ranks like him just refuse to be disciplined, lawless!"


    Speaking of which, he glanced around and whispered, "Sir, why don''t you take him to the Political Department and give him a good discipline?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu put on a face of feigned wretchedness, "I would indeed like to, but that''s not possible."


    "The Special Service Department is a big department, and it''s not weaker compared to our Political Department. If I dare to capture someone from the Special Service Department over such a trifle, it would be strange if they didn''t fight back against us."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Tian Xiaotian just made an "oh" sound, not really caring: perhaps he knew himself that this idea was a bit far-fetched.


    Afterwards, as the two walked and talked, they developed a profound "affection" for each other in just a few minutes.


    Especially Tian Xiaotian, for some reason, just felt that this Deputy Staff Director from the Political Department, whom he had only met once, was particularly endearing and easy on the eyes.


    If he wasn''t certain about his own sexual orientation, he might have suspected that Ah-Tai''s beating the previous day had caused him some disorder.


    And Qiu Tu.... found that the "Mandragora Love Drug" was indeed very effective.


    He had only just met Tian Xiaotian. And their meeting was such a coincidence, yet Tian Xiaotian showed no suspicion at all, eagerly answering every question. In just a few minutes, they started addressing each other as brothers.


    "Brother Tian, I never expected that you''re the son of Vice President Tian. To be a First Level Detective at such a young age, truly, like father like son!"


    Tian Xiaotian bashfully waved his hands, "No, no. I didn''t earn this position based on my own merits, but it was arranged by my father."


    "He said we needed to strengthen ties with the Investigation Bureau, so he placed me in the Special Service Department as a First Level Detective."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly: the first important piece of information was obtained.


    At that moment, Tian Xiaotian also asked out of curiosity, "Brother Tu, I heard you say earlier that you started off as a driver for the Bureau Chief?"


    "Are you in a good relationship with the Bureau Chief?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "Of course, I am."


    "I''ll tell you, the reason I was promoted so quickly was all thanks to the support from the Bureau Chief and our Minister."


    "Otherwise, think about it, someone like me, coming from Old Alley Street with no background, no money, how could I become a Deputy Staff Director in Xinjie City just one year after its establishment?"


    "And in the Political Department, such an important and sensitive department at that."


    Tian Xiaotian nodded somewhat confusedly, feeling that it made sense.


    Seeing that Tian Xiaotian was convinced, Qiu Tu continued, full of pride, "I''ll tell you, I''ve protected the Bureau Chief''s mistress, been to the Bureau Chief''s villa, and even entered the Bureau Chief''s study as a true confidant!"


    "That night in the study, there were only the Bureau Chief, Minister Jia, and me. From that, you can see how much I''m valued."


    "Moreover, Minister Jia also values me a lot. Every time he sees me, his eyes are filled with fervent encouragement."


    "Even to get me accustomed to the Political Department, on my first day, he personally showed me how to dissect prisoners."


    "Now, he''s handed over the most important case in the Political Department to me. Tell me, if this isn''t trust, what is?"


    Tian Xiaotian nodded again, still a bit bewildered, feeling that this Deputy Staff Director spoke so pleasantly, everything he said seemed right....


    And at that moment, since they had reached the topic of the case, Qiu Tu changed the subject and naturally segued into the main issue.


    He said, "By the way, Tian, this case seems to be somewhat related to your family."


    "It involves your father.... um...."


    Halfway through, Qiu Tu seemed to realize something inappropriate and suddenly stopped speaking.


    Could Tian Xiaotian stand being baited like this?


    His curiosity was piqued, and he quickly inquired, "Brother Tu, what were you saying just now? This major case is related to my family?"


    After saying that, he expressed his confusion, "That shouldn''t be the case. My father is on good terms with Minister Jia, how could there be a case related to him?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered slightly: the second important piece of information was acquired.


    Qiu Tu looked hesitant as if harboring an unspeakable secret.


    But under Tian Xiaotian''s prompting, he looked around, and at last, whispered, "Brother Tian, this matter is actually a secret. Normally, I shouldn''t be telling you."


    "But.... I don''t know why, even though this is the first time I''ve met you today, I feel an incredible affinity for you, as if we knew each other from before."


    "So, I''ll quietly tell you. But you must promise me, you can''t tell anyone else. And you can''t tell your father either."


    Upon hearing this, Tian Xiaotian also looked ecstatic as he said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu! I feel the same!"


    "For some reason, when I see you, it''s like seeing an older brother I''ve known for many years."


    "So, rest assured!" he patted his plump chest and said, "I definitely won''t tell anyone!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu pretended to breathe a sigh of relief, and then he whispered, "It''s about your father''s mistress."


    "A woman named Yin Caimei. She''s involved in an important case...."


    Next, Qiu Tu detailed the entire case involving Yin Caimei to Tian Xiaotian.


    Including Yin Caimei being a spy for the United Front, including Yin Caimei installing various eavesdropping devices. Including Yin Caimei being silenced in the Political Department.


    However, the only difference from reality was... Qiu Tu pinned all this on Vice President Tian.


    He whispered, "Let me tell you, all these things were actually done by your old man."


    "Minister Jia handed this case to me to handle the loose ends for your old man."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu even winked at Tian Xiaotian.


    Perhaps the things Qiu Tu said were too shocking, and after hearing them, Tian Xiaotian was completely stunned on the spot.


    His chubby face was filled with shock and disbelief.


    After a moment, he stared at Qiu Tu and retorted, "Impossible! My dad could never do such things!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu continued to frame him without a change in expression, "Think about it carefully. If it wasn''t your dad who did this, why did he suddenly become so close with our minister?"


    "And why did he suddenly cooperate with the Investigation Bureau and send you to the Investigation Bureau?"


    Tian Xiaotian''s face kept changing. As a second-generation rich kid just out of his parents'' protection, he clearly hadn''t adapted to a society full of deceit and intrigue, and thus easily let Qiu Tu control the pace of the conversation.


    His expression changed for a long time, before he finally said, unconvincingly, "Anyway, my dad couldn''t have done such things!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew the time was right, so he soothed, "Xiaotian, you''re right. Maybe I jumped to conclusions."


    Qiu Tu "sincerely" apologized, "It was the minister who asked me to investigate the case and to quickly clear Vice President Tian of suspicion. I had assumed that Vice President Tian was the culprit."


    "Actually, now that I think about it... maybe the minister is just worried that this matter will affect Vice President Tian''s business."


    "That''s right, that''s right! It''s very likely the case!" Tian Xiaotian eagerly agreed with Qiu Tu''s plausible reasoning.


    At this time, Qiu Tu finally revealed his ultimate goal. He said, "Xiaotian, I know you also don''t believe Vice President Tian would do such things."


    "So, look, how about we work together to help clear Vice President Tian of suspicion?"


    Although Tian Xiaotian was a naive heir from a landlord family and was under the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug, he still had a shred of reason left.


    Hearing such a sensitive proposal, he hesitated first, then tentatively inquired, "Brother Tu, what do you want me to do?" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu smiled and leaned in, whispering a few words in his ear.


    Tian Xiaotian looked at Qiu Tu with a surprised face and asked, "Just that?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Yes. Just that."


    Tian Xiaotian fell silent for a while, then finally said, "Let me think about it first, I''ll contact you once I''ve made up my mind."


    Qiu Tu didn''t press him, and took out his communicator to exchange numbers with Tian Xiaotian.


    After saving each other''s numbers, Qiu Tu calculated the time and realized that the Mandragora Love Drug would wear off in a few minutes. To avoid spoiling the good first impression, he decisively took his leave.


    Watching Qiu Tu go, Tian Xiaotian stood in place for a long time.


    The information he got from Qiu Tu was indeed surprising and made him wary.


    Especially after the Mandragora Love Drug''s influence had worn off and his reason gradually returned, he was not at all certain whether his father was involved in this case.


    If his own father really was involved, what then?


    By helping Qiu Tu, could he end up harming his own father?


    And... was Qiu Tu really a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu as he claimed, on his father''s side?


    With this question, he hesitated, took out his communicator, and made a call.


    The call connected, and he whispered, "Butler Shi, help me look into someone. Deputy Staff Director Qiu Tu from the Interrogation Section of the Investigation Bureau Political Department."


    "I want to know about his relationship with Bureau Chief Yan and Minister Jia."


    After hanging up, Tian Xiaotian took another deep look in the direction Qiu Tu had left, pondering.


    If Qiu Tu really was a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, then there was no harm in cooperating with him. Even if he did find some clues or issues unfavorable to his father, Qiu Tu could handle it better for him.


    And... if Qiu Tu was not a confidant of Yan Chen or Jia Shu, his approach must have another purpose! He must inform his father to avoid any problems!


    Thinking this way, and perhaps because the matter was so serious, Tian Xiaotian didn''t even feel like bothering with Ah-Tai anymore.


    So, he swayed his chubby body and headed towards the other training grounds...


    ...


    Meanwhile, after bidding farewell to Tian Xiaotian.


    Qiu Tu returned to the lobby on the first floor of the Investigation Bureau, then took the elevator up to the 9th floor''s Political Department.


    Once in the Political Department, Qiu Tu walked towards the temporary office of his investigative team.


    However, just as he got to the office door, he unexpectedly ran into the beautiful young woman Liu Fuping.


    Today Liu Fuping was not wearing her uniform but a plain sweater. Though modest, the sweater was unexpectedly form-fitting, revealing her impressive figure in a way that made one''s blood race just by looking.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping smiled and shivered, then raised her hand to greet him.


    But, just as she came within two meters of Qiu Tu, suddenly, there was a brief moment of dizziness in her eyes.


    For an instant, she paused slightly, seeming to change.


    Qiu Tu keenly noticed the change and remembered that his Mandragora Love Drug would still be effective for another two minutes.


    He intended to avoid the enticing young woman before him.


    But at that moment, Liu Fuping, with a slightly flushed face, quickly approached him, closed her eyes, and nestled against him to take a sniff.


    The gentle breath of the young woman made Qiu Tu feel ticklish.


    And it wasn''t over yet; after sniffing, Liu Fuping tiptoed closer and whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear with a voice that made one''s whole body tingle, "Chief... you smell so good."


    ------

 Chapter 87 How Is It Her? (7k for recommendation tickets)

    It has to be said, the charm of a married woman lies in her expertise in all of a man''s "weak spots."Compared to Shen Lingshuang''s naive seduction in the morning, Liu Fuping was far better at pressing a man''s soft underbelly.


    Not only was her voice sultry, but her entire body also gently pressed against Qiu Tu as she spoke.


    Now being autumn, the clothes were quite thin, so Qiu Tu could easily sense her soft curves.


    If that was all, Qiu Tu could have endured, but the problem was that although Liu Fuping pressed close, she didn''t press firmly; instead, she maintained a tantalizing proximity.


    She touched him and then backed away, touched him again, and withdrew once more... keeping their bodies in constant contact.


    With such skilled seduction techniques, no wonder even the protagonists like Yang Wei from some novels might become aroused!


    So, Qiu Tu endured and endured and ultimately couldn''t hold back any longer.


    He abruptly pulled Liu Fuping''s slender waist toward him, bringing her body close, and then whispered into the ear of the beautiful young woman, a low and magnetic warning, "Sister Liu, you''re playing with fire."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping looked up at him, her eyes almost dripping with water, she tilted her head back, blushed, and provocatively said, "Really...? Can the officer''s flame dry up my waters?"


    At her ambiguously charged words, Qiu Tu felt a fierce fire burning in his chest.


    The air grew thicker with innuendo, their gazes locked onto each other, with the surroundings seeming to fade away.


    Seconds and minutes ticked by.


    The feeling was like two piles of dry tinder soaked in gasoline, just waiting for a spark to erupt into a blaze!


    Just then... suddenly, Qiu Tu felt a void in his body, as if a mysterious force had been abruptly withdrawn from him.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality.


    Then he looked down at Liu Fuping, only to find that her dreamy gaze was also clearing up.


    She seemed quite surprised by her own behavior just now, her beautiful eyes filled with disbelief.


    ''Is the Mandragora Love Drug this potent?''


    ''To make Liu Fuping behave like this?''


    ''Is it because we are of different sexes, or is it because there''s already an ambiguous relationship between us?''


    As astonished as Qiu Tu was in his mind, his hands didn''t stop.


    He let go of Liu Fuping''s waist, "Sister Liu, please have some dignity. I am a decent man."


    With that, he reached out and "smack!" slapped Liu Fuping''s bottom, wave after wave.


    Liu Fuping startled, jumped to one side with a face flushed in shame and annoyance, covering her bottom.


    She glared at Qiu Tu and said irritably, "The officer talks about dignity but sure didn''t miss out on taking advantage with his hands."


    Qiu Tu, without a blush or a skip of heartbeat, "That was just a punishment."


    "As an officer, I have the right to punish my subordinates for disrespectful actions."


    "Ha, I didn''t expect the officer to be into this kind of play," Liu Fuping said with a roll of her eyes, her verbal skills noticeably improved from the day before, "You could have just told me directly. I could have made some preparations in advance."


    "Even, if you want to play something more exciting, we can go straight to the interrogation room. They have a full range of punishment props there..."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Indeed, once women let loose, men become irrelevant.


    For the first time, he found himself at a loss for words to respond to Liu Fuping''s rather bold statement.


    So, Qiu Tu swiftly and discreetly changed the subject, inquiring about Liu Fuping''s "user experience."


    He tentatively asked, "Sister Liu, what happened to you just now? Why did you suddenly lean in?"


    "Are you feeling unwell anywhere?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping indeed shifted her focus. She hesitated, furrowed her brows, and said somewhat oddly, "It''s a bit hard to explain...."


    With her hands clasped under her chest, she titled her head, recalling, "When I saw you from a distance just now, I didn''t seem to feel anything."


    "But after taking a few steps toward you, I suddenly felt a bit spaced out, followed by an overwhelming sense of comfort and security."


    "I wanted... wanted to be near you involuntarily."


    Her face blushed slightly, "And then... I just did that."


    "After that, my desires were magnified, my rationality diminished, and all I wanted to do was to immerse myself in that feeling."


    "It wasn''t until you pushed me away that I gradually snapped out of that state."


    After finishing, she looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion and a frown, "You didn''t do something, did you, Chief?"


    Qiu Tu ignored Liu Fuping''s suspicion. Resting his chin in his hand, he pondered quietly for a moment, then continued asking, "So, when you were getting close to me, did you think about anything ''strange''?"


    When he said "strange," Qiu Tu emphasized the word.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping''s fair face visibly reddened. Then, with a somewhat evasive look in her eyes, she shook her head unconvincingly, "No."


    Qiu Tu regarded her skeptically, his gaze intense as he scrutinized her.


    Liu Fuping somewhat awkwardly tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, and crossed her legs, then added in a lower voice, "But I just got off the phone with Director Tang..."


    Qiu Tu... understood.


    Stroking his chin, he began to analyze the differences between Liu Fuping and Tian Xiaotian, the two "users."


    First of all, Tian Xiaotian and he were of the same sex, while Liu Fuping was of the opposite sex.


    And from their reactions, the "Mandragora Love Drug," this Cataclysmic Potion, clearly had a stronger effect on the opposite sex.


    Next, the core effect of this Cataclysmic Potion seemed to be the enhancement of human senses.


    Tian Xiaotian, due to his hatred for Ah-Tai, met a "kindred spirit" in himself and had the desire to confide. Thus, his urge to talk was greatly strengthened, resulting in a lengthy conversation with himself.


    While Liu Fuping, having just finished a call with Tang Feifei, might have discussed some taboo topics over the phone.


    So, after coming out, upon encountering him, a certain desire of hers was also enhanced.


    Lastly, the effects of this potion were supposed to be immediate after application, and should end abruptly when the time is up.


    Therefore, for someone like Tian Xiaotian, having a process of approaching and leaving himself would minimize the discontinuity of his sensory experience.


    But Liu Fuping experienced the sudden cessation of the effect while in contact with himself, which made her feeling of disconnection particularly evident....


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu also gained a bit of experience in using the potion:


    He felt it was best to use the Cataclysmic Potion when the target was in a good mood and state, and to make sure to leave before the effects of the potion wore off.


    That way, the effects could be maximized without drawing the target''s attention.


    After roughly understanding the effects of this new Potion, Qiu Tu came back to his senses.


    He ignored Liu Fuping''s inquisitive look and gave her a signal with his eyes, leading her to an empty conference room nearby.


    Once in the empty conference room, Qiu Tu locked the door behind them and started a new conversation, "This morning, Tang Feifei''s assistant came looking for me."


    Liu Fuping twisted her waist and half-sat on a table, crossing her right leg over her left, displaying the exceptional beauty and length of her legs.


    With her hands propped on the table and her body leaning slightly backward, she looked at Qiu Tu, not showing much surprise on her face, "Last night, I hinted to her about you and this case."


    "Although she didn''t say much, I could feel she was a bit interested."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then asked, "How much do you know about Tang Feifei?"


    "Being at such a high position at a young age, is there something special about her?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping hesitated for a bit, then said, "She is very cautious. She never reveals her own background."


    "So I don''t know much."


    "But based on her few remarks, I feel that she must have some backing at the Sanctuary. But... this backing doesn''t seem very strong."


    "The reason she could become a city''s Deputy Director at such a young age, aside from the help of her backers, is also because she is very capable."


    Pausing for a moment, Liu Fuping continued, "You''ll know once you meet her. That powerful confidence of hers radiates from the inside out."


    "It''s as if there''s nothing in this world that can stump her."


    Liu Fuping''s gaze carried a hint of heartfelt admiration as she recalled, "I have never seen a woman like her."


    "Hmm... don''t even talk about women, I haven''t even seen men like that."


    Next, Liu Fuping provided Qiu Tu with many details about her interactions with Tang Feifei, even sharing quite a few bedroom anecdotes.


    While Qiu Tu listened with rising excitement, he also continuously constructed a character model in his mind.


    Gradually, the image of Tang Feifei in his heart became more vivid.


    ''Powerful, confident, ruthless. She acts decisively, speaks in a low and icy tone, comes across as difficult to approach, yet is actually very sentimental.''


    ''Even when faced with setbacks, she is unyielding, still full of confidence in herself, believing in her day to make a comeback.''


    ''Hmm... a typical Action-Oriented Person. That''s actually good news. After all, strong-willed women of the Action-Oriented type are much easier to deal with than those of the Rational Planner type.''


    Having determined Tang Feifei''s personality type, Qiu Tu''s plan in his mind also became more refined: He could probably be more aggressive.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was deep in thought, Liu Fuping, who had just finished sharing anecdotes about Tang Feifei, looked up at Qiu Tu''s handsome and sunny profile.


    She paused for a moment.


    Not sure if it was an illusion, but after that heartfelt flirtation just now, Liu Fuping felt her feelings for Qiu Tu had undergone a slight change...


    Only, she herself was a bit unclear what that change was...


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +12]


    Looking at the sudden pop-up notification in front of her eyes.


    Qiu Tu, who was still scheming about how to entangle Tang Feifei in his plans, was taken aback for a moment before regaining his composure.


    He looked down at Liu Fuping, who was still in contemplation, and two question marks appeared in his mind: ??


    What''s with this woman? Why did her Loyalty suddenly skyrocket?


    .....


    After confirming the information about Tang Feifei with Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu went to Jia Shu to collect the Cataclysm Prop he had applied for the day before.


    This time Jia Shu didn''t say anything strange, nor did he give Qiu Tu a hard time, but naturally handed over a black case to Qiu Tu.


    However, what made Qiu Tu uneasy was that Jia Shu''s eyes seemed to hold a weird smile when looking at him today... it gave him goosebumps.


    And what was even weirder to him was that today when he had done nothing out of the ordinary, upon leaving Jia Shu''s office, Jia Shu''s [Satisfaction] still increased by 2 points...


    This left him once again puzzled.


    What''s going on? Are all those who work in secret agencies so unreasonable?


    You do nothing, and yet one person''s Loyalty suddenly increases, and another''s Satisfaction goes up?


    That''s just too weird! Regular subordinates are much better, at least you can understand what they''re thinking!


    ....


    The day flew by in the blink of an eye.


    Soon it was time to get off work again.


    Qiu Tu sent all his team members home, but he himself stayed behind, against the rules of the investigation team: he worked overtime alone.


    The reason for his overtime was simple: Qin Shuman had promised to help him with the investigation into Yin Caimei''s cause of death tonight.


    Waiting patiently in the temporary office, Qiu Tu reviewed the autopsy report provided by Forensic Doctor Qin that afternoon while waiting for Qin Shuman to contact him. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As time ticked by, soon it was eight o''clock in the evening.


    Just as Qiu Tu was almost getting bored with the autopsy report,


    Suddenly, someone knocked gently on the door of the temporary office of the investigation team.


    Hearing the knock, a smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. He put down the autopsy report, adjusted his emotions, and then said in his deep and magnetic voice, "Come in."


    The next second, the office door was opened from the outside.


    A woman walked in gracefully and laughed lightly at Qiu Tu, "Were you getting anxious?"


    Seeing Qin Shuman in her new body, Qiu Tu was completely dumbfounded, almost unable to control his expression.


    ''Why is it her?''

 Chapter 88 Cataclysmic Treasure: Cursed Printing Machine (7k for Monthly Ticket)

    Yan Chen might have noticed something off about Qiu Tu''s expression.Qin Shuman turned around to close the door, then looked down at her new body with curiosity, and asked, "What''s wrong? Do you know Xiaowan?"


    Qiu Tu said with a strange look on his face, "It''s not that I know her. It''s just... that I just met her this morning."


    After finishing his words, Qiu Tu addressed Qin Shuman, now in possession of the new body, "I''m not wrong, am I? Assistant Su Xiaowan."


    Yes, the person who appeared in front of Qiu Tu was indeed the beautiful assistant who had stopped his car that morning to recruit him for Tang Fei.


    Upon this realization, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take a deep look at Qin Shuman.


    The Security Department truly deserved its reputation as the most powerful among the three major authorities in Xinjie City.


    They not only planted a nail next to Yan Chen, the Investigation Bureau Chief, but had also planted a spy by the side of Tang Fei, the Deputy Director.


    And both spies were the closest people to them!


    One a bedmate, the other an assistant.


    If those two made a move, how much could the Investigation Bureau possibly keep secret from the Security Department?


    While Qiu Tu was contemplating this, Qin Shuman seemed to have had a brief exchange with Su Xiaowan and learned about the complete process of their encounter that day.


    After understanding, she covered her mouth and giggled, "You two seem to have quite the fate, don''t you?"


    "How about it? Want me to introduce her to you?"


    At this, Qin Shuman threw a coquettish glance at Qiu Tu and teasingly said, "I''ll tell you, Xiaowan is really adorable~"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Seeing the shell of Su Xiaowan reveal Qin Shuman''s playfully cute expression, Qiu Tu''s heart couldn''t help but skip a beat.


    That contrast of an unfamiliar appearance with a familiar expression poked right at his XP.


    It made him recall a life-and-death question he had seen online in his previous life: If your girlfriend and her best friend swapped bodies, who would you choose?


    Good lord. Was there even a need to choose?


    Of course you''d take them both.


    So... faced with the current situation, Qiu Tu really just wanted to say one thing:


    "The soul of Rain Butterfly is the only thing I love. As for whose shell it is, I don''t care at all¡ªyes, really don''t care (wiping drool)!"


    Of course, this thought, like that life-and-death question from his previous life, was not something to be said out loud, so although he was running wild with his thoughts, he forced a bitter smile and said, "Stop it now. You''ll scare Assistant Su."


    Qin Shuman laughed and finally stopped teasing them.


    Because Qiu Tu was not in that body, he couldn''t hear Su Xiaowan''s cries, but she shared a body with Su Xiaowan, and when she had thrown that seductive look at Qiu Tu and teased him, Su Xiaowan''s screams almost burst through the heavens! S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Walking up to Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman returned to being serious. She reached out her delicate hand and gently touched Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu heard another woman''s voice beside his ear.


    Qiu Tu looked at Qin Shuman in surprise.


    Qin Shuman explained, "This is soul communication, which allows you to hear not only my voice but also Xiaowan''s."


    "However, this communication is short-range. You can only hear it if you are within two meters of me."


    Then, Qin Shuman also softly revealed Su Xiaowan''s identity, "Xiaowan is one of the first spies I trained after coming to Xinjie City."


    "Although her abilities are average, she naturally possesses a kind of affinity that makes people unconsciously want to trust her, which makes her perfectly suited for espionage."


    "After I trained her, I arranged for her to infiltrate the Investigation Bureau, lurking beside Tang Fei."


    "Over the course of the year, I possessed her periodically to handle her official duties, and combined with her own affinity, she was quickly favored by Tang Fei and became Tang Fei''s personal assistant."


    Hearing Qin Shuman explain this way, Su Xiaowan added from within the body, "But... since my abilities fall quite short of Chief Rain Butterfly''s, I always mess things up when she''s not around."


    "So... Director Tang gave me a nickname, calling me ''The Half-Dreaming, Half-Awake Assistant Su.''"


    "It means my performance is unpredictable, and nobody knows whether I''m awake or asleep on any given day."


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but chuckle at this, yet he found the nickname both apt and amusing.


    He didn''t expect Tang Fei to have such a side to her.


    After introducing Su Xiaowan''s identity, Qin Shuman continued, "The reason I brought her here tonight."


    "One is to let you two get to know each other better so that you can help each other in case of emergencies."


    "Two is... I think Xiaowan''s identity might be of help to you right now."


    "As Tang Fei''s assistant, she can serve as a bridge between you and Tang Fei, giving you more room to maneuver in the Investigation Bureau."


    At this, Qin Shuman paused for a moment, chuckled, and said, "Yet... it seems like you had already thought of this and prepared in advance."


    "It almost makes what I did superfluous."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu smiled without denying, "I was driven into a corner, and that''s when I thought of leveraging the relationships of the directors to make a move."


    "Originally, I was only 70% sure about my plan, but now with Assistant Su''s help, I feel 100% confident."


    Qin Shuman smiled at this, and the two exchanged a knowing look, where all was understood without saying a word.


    However, Su Xiaowan clearly didn''t understand the hidden meaning in their words and expressed her soul''s confusion from within her body, "Huh? Did Chief Qiu deliberately draw Director Tang here?"


    "But that''s wrong. Chief Qiu and Director Tang had no contact at all, so how did he manage it?"


    "What''s the next plan, Chief Qiu? I don''t understand anything you guys are saying at all?"


    Upon hearing Su Xiaowan''s bewildered question, both Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman couldn''t help but chuckle.


    However, they did not clear up Xiaowan''s confusion and tacitly began to discuss serious matters.


    Qin Shuman asked, "Has the autopsy report of Yin Caimei come out yet?"


    Qiu Tu nodded. He then handed the autopsy report he was holding to Qin Shuman and said,


    "The forensic scientist found significant narrowing in Yin Caimei''s coronary arteries, with local stenosis exceeding 50%, atherosclerotic plaques formation, myocardial interstitial edema, and wavy changes in patchy myocardial fibers. Hence, the conclusion was made that she died of a cardiac sudden death."


    After carefully reading the autopsy report, Qin Shuman remarked, "Indeed, sudden death is a possibility."


    "But... many Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic props could also create similar effects."


    "Or rather, most Cataclysmics disguise their victims as having died of cardiac sudden death when killing with Cataclysmic abilities or treasures."


    "After all, simply erasing the soul, leaving no cause of death, is too obvious and would easily attract our Security Department''s investigation."


    "Therefore, we still need to conduct a further examination on Yin Caimei''s body."


    After speaking, Qin Shuman inquired, "Have you obtained the treasure for Catastrophe Power inspection?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, opened a drawer, took out the black box that Jia Shu had given him, and gently opened it.


    As the box opened, white mist slowly drifted out from inside.


    Qiu Tu used his hand to disperse the mist, then took out a black goatskin-covered notebook.


    The notebook looked extraordinary at first glance, not only because of its exquisite craftsmanship but also because of the white mist seeping from the title page.


    Additionally, the wet feeling of the black goatskin cover had a peculiar beauty to it.


    "The Mist Index Book?" Qin Shuman glanced at it and remarked, "Not bad. It should be enough with that."


    Having said that, Qin Shuman said, "Put it back, let''s go and take a look at Yin Caimei''s body now."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then placed the black notebook back into the box, and together with Qin Shuman, they went to the morgue.


    Upon reaching the separate morgue, Yin Caimei''s body was still lying there quietly.


    Because it had been autopsied and had been dead for a day, it looked somewhat ghastly, and it even began emitting bursts of the smell of corpse decay.


    As professionals, the three of them did not pay much attention to this.


    Locking the door of the morgue, Qin Shuman took a pair of rubber gloves from her pocket, put them on, and carefully inspected Yin Caimei''s body.


    After the inspection, she wore a contemplative expression on her face and then said to Qiu Tu, "Take out the Mist Index Book."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu opened the black box, took out the Mist Index Book, and handed it to Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman took the Mist Index Book with a practiced air, drew several symbols on the cover, and instantly, the book opened by itself. Dense white mist crazily surged out from the Cataclysmic treasure and swiftly spread to every corner of the morgue.


    The mist filled the air, and the material world seemed to vibrate subtly.


    Qiu Tu looked around and noticed the scene was somewhat similar to when he used his Cataclysmic ability. All the lines around him seemed to be gradually withdrawn, and they were slowly moving from the real world to the spirit world...


    At the same time, Qin Shuman''s reassuring voice echoed in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Don''t be afraid, this is the non-material dimension I told you about before."


    "Every space and corner of the material world, even the air, is filled with various active particles."


    "Therefore, traces of the spirit cannot be observed in the real world."


    "Only by transcending the material world and ascending to the dimension of the spirit world can the residual traces of the spirit be seen."


    As Qin Shuman explained, without any visible action on her part, a ghostly silhouette of Yin Caimei''s body slowly emerged from the white fog.


    However, unlike in the real world, this time a distinct black shadow appeared very clearly within the translucent silhouette of Yin Caimei.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu tried to walk over for a closer look, then he discovered that the black shadow was located exactly over Yin Caimei''s left chest.


    "Could it be Resentful Spirit Entanglement?" Meanwhile, Qin Shuman''s voice of surprise reached Qiu Tu''s ears.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu looked curiously at Qin Shuman and asked, puzzled, "What is Resentful Spirit Entanglement?"


    Qin Shuman was silent for a moment, then said, "It is said that within the Anti-government Armed Forces, there exists a Cataclysmic treasure known as the Cursed Printing Machine."


    "It can use ink tainted by Cataclysmic Creatures and special paper that has been purified by the non-material dimension to print books that have the ability to distort reality."


    "These books look no different from normal ones. But in fact, they contain various curses."


    "Resentful Spirit Entanglement is one of them."


    "Once someone has flipped through that book, the printer of the book can afflict the reader with a curse of resentment, causing the reader''s body to deteriorate, decay, and even... lead to death."


    ''Cursed Printing Machine? Books that distort reality?''


    ''Afflicting readers with a curse?''


    For some reason, as Qiu Tu listened to Qin Shuman''s explanation, he felt as though the information was strangely familiar.


    After a moment, a flash of lightning crossed his mind!


    His heart gave a sudden throb as he recalled the book he had read, "Brave New World"...


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman evidently made the connection as well.


    She involuntarily looked towards Qiu Tu, and as their eyes met, both were filled with horror!


    ------

 Chapter 89 The Shocked Qin Shuman (7k)

    Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu and then asked softly, "I remember you said last night that among Yin Caimei''s personal belongings, there was a banned book?"Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes. It''s called ''Brave New World''."


    Qin Shuman''s gaze grew a bit profound, "Have you already read that book?"


    Qiu Tu recalled for a moment and said uncertainly, "I should have only flipped through seven or eight pages, just skimmed it really, without looking closely."


    Qin Shuman''s eyebrows knitted slightly, "Although we can''t be 100% certain, the anti-government organization imprinting curses on banned books for members to carry around and read, so as to conveniently dispose of them at any time, is indeed a rather reasonable guess."


    Qiu Tu said, "So you also suspect that book could very well be the carrier of the ''Resentment Entanglement''?"


    "Have I been targeted already?"


    Chin in hand, Qin Shuman reminisced and slowly said, "I''m not very familiar with the effects of the ''Cursed Printing Machine''."


    "I only heard some rumors about it during training at the Sanctuary."


    "So, I can''t be sure what the impact of just reading a few pages will be, nor whether there''s any danger to life."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman seemed to make up her mind, and she said to Qiu Tu, "I feel that guessing back and forth here accomplishes little when we could simply verify it directly."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu''s reaction before she deactivated the effect of the ''Mist Index Book'' and then used it on Qiu Tu again.


    Qin Shuman was clearly worried about Qiu Tu''s condition, acting with incredible speed, so much so that Qiu Tu didn''t even have a chance to refuse before feeling a mysterious force appear out of nowhere, descending upon him.


    In that moment, Qiu Tu''s complexion changed several times, but in the end, he chose to accept Qin Shuman''s kindness.


    The mist once again appeared slowly, filling the entire morgue.


    Lines began to extricate, and the material world started to fade away gradually.


    Soon, Qiu Tu''s body was illuminated in the mist just like Yin Caimei''s corpse.


    Qin Shuman approached to examine the traces of Catastrophe Power outlined on Qiu Tu''s body by the ''Mist Index Book''.


    ''Hmm... traces of Catastrophe Power in the head, that''s not good.''


    ''Traces of Catastrophe Power in the neck, hmm, that''s normal.''


    ''Traces of Catastrophe Power in the limbs, organs too...''


    ''How is the effect of this ''Resentment Entanglement'' curse so strong?''


    "Hmm?" Qin Shuman was startled momentarily, sensing something was amiss.


    She quickly stepped back and studied Qiu Tu''s entire body, only to discover that every organ, every cell in Qiu Tu''s body was filled with Catastrophe Power!


    Qin Shuman stood shocked, somewhat dazed!


    ''How could there be so much!?''


    The next second, Qin Shuman realized!


    This wasn''t the effect of Resentment Entanglement! This was... Catastrophic ability enhancing the entire body!


    Qiu Tu was actually a Cataclysmic!


    With that thought, Qin Shuman became entirely enlightened.


    She watched Qiu Tu with some disbelief. When had it happened? When had Qiu Tu become a Cataclysmic?


    She thought back but had no recollection.


    And... wasn''t Qiu Tu, like herself, in possession of this body?


    Could one still undergo Cataclysm Awakening after possession?


    Does this awakened Cataclysmic ability belong to the soul, the original body, or the current body?


    If I, Qin Shuman, were to take over Su Xiaowan''s body and then drink the Cataclysmic Potion, would it be I or Su Xiaowan who awakens?


    Qin Shuman felt question upon question piling up in her mind, overwhelming her thoughts.


    Fortunately, at this time, she hadn''t forgotten the reason she used the ''Mist Index Book'' on Qiu Tu.


    She forced herself to come back to her senses and then observed Qiu Tu''s left chest area for a while.


    This time, disregarding the disturbance from Qiu Tu''s own Cataclysmic abilities, she finally saw that smidgen of ''Resentment Entanglement'' enveloping Qiu Tu''s heart.


    The bad news was, Qiu Tu had indeed been targeted.


    The good news, however... was that the amount of ''Resentment Entanglement'' was much smaller than the traces left on Yin Caimei''s body.


    Qin Shuman breathed a sigh of relief, feeling that even if the curse erupted, it would at most cause Qiu Tu discomfort for a few days without threatening his life.


    But after relaxing, Qin Shuman also felt a tinge of self-reproach for worrying unnecessarily on his behalf. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although she was unclear about what Qiu Tu''s former identity was,


    the fact that he could so quickly obtain the Cataclysm Prop that allowed her to recover and that he could experience Cataclysm Awakening while in possession clearly indicated... he was someone significant in the past.


    Very likely, a High Order Catastrophist.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu might be out of his depth when it comes to investigating cases, but dealing with these Cataclysmic abilities, Cataclysm curses was likely not a big problem for him.


    With that thought, Qin Shuman once again lifted the effect of the ''Mist Index Book'' and said somewhat lacklusterly, "You were indeed targeted, but it''s not a major problem."


    Having said that, she gave Qiu Tu another complicated look and added, "But you weren''t really worried about this Catastrophe Curse, were you?"


    Actually... when Qin Shuman used the ''Mist Index Book'' on him, Qiu Tu''s heart had skipped a beat.


    Having lived two lives, he had grown accustomed to keeping his guard up against anyone.


    So even though his relationship with Qin Shuman had grown quite close, he had never told her about his own Cataclysm Awakening.


    He had even intentionally used the ''Nightmare Crystal Vial'' to conceal this from her while treating Qin Shuman.


    Who would have thought that Qin Shuman, worried about him, would use the ''Mist Index Book'' on him.


    Qiu Tu had indeed witnessed the effect of the "Mist Index Book" a moment ago, which essentially outlined a person''s entire Catastrophe Power.


    Therefore, the moment Qin Shuman used it on him, he knew he was in trouble: Qin Shuman would definitely discover the fact that he was a Catastrophic.


    As expected, it was not beyond his expectations; after inspecting his body, Qin Shuman''s expression seemed a bit off.


    Furthermore, with that hint of sarcasm in her speech now¡­ it was clear she was angry.


    So, after pondering for half a second, Qiu Tu still chose to tell the truth, "Yes, I have a way to lift the curse."


    What Qiu Tu actually meant was that his Catastrophic ability was a bit special and could lift such Catastrophe Curses.


    But to Qin Shuman''s ears, it turned into an acknowledgment that Qiu Tu''s former identity was not trivial, and that such a low-level curse was nothing in his eyes.


    So, Qin Shuman confirmed her speculation once again: Qiu Tu must have indeed been a High Order Catastrophic in the past.


    Only... thinking about this, she was a bit puzzled again:


    If Qiu Tu''s true form was a High Order Catastrophic and he also had a way to lift possession, then why hadn''t he returned to his original form all this time?


    Why had he been possessing "Qiu Tu" all along? Was it for Yan Chen?


    After all, the highest-ranking person that the identity "Qiu Tu" could get close to was Yan Chen.


    Thinking of this, Qin Shuman followed this line of thought and continued to ponder¡­


    Who, and what force, would need to investigate Yan Chen?


    Moreover, recalling Qiu Tu''s actions during this period: he was neither close to the Investigation Bureau nor familiar with the Anti-government Armed Forces, and was even disinterested in those big businessmen...


    On the contrary, he was very close to her and the Security Department.


    With this realization, Qin Shuman suddenly had a bright idea...


    ''Could he be a private soldier of some big shot from the military, or an investigator dispatched to the Planning Area from the Sanctuary?''


    ''But then... I haven''t heard of such a person coming to Xinjie City on a secret mission...''


    Guessing and guessing, due to the scarcity of information, Qin Shuman felt that the mist surrounding Qiu Tu was growing thicker.


    Therefore, she could only temporarily suppress her speculations about Qiu Tu''s identity:


    She knew all too well that those working on the secret front despise others probing into their true identities.


    Up until now, Qiu Tu had never harmed her, nor had he damaged the interests of the Security Department or the military. Thus, there was no need to clarify his identity. It was better to just interact with him over time.


    Especially since... with the current case potentially involving the Anti-government Armed Forces, helping Qiu Tu was also helping herself; there was a chance to gain merit, so there was no loss!


    With this in mind, Qin Shuman adjusted her mood, then said to Qiu Tu, "Since you can lift that curse, I don''t need to worry."


    "Let''s continue to analyze the case."


    She paused for a moment, then said, "We can confirm now that Yin Caimei was indeed a victim of homicide."


    "And the likely culprit is the Anti-government Armed Forces she was part of: the United Front."


    "As for the murder weapon, considering the curse inflicted on you, there''s a 90% chance it was that Banned Book she always carried with her."


    While saying that, Qin Shuman tapped the "Mist Index Book" in her hand and added, "So, what we need to do now is to confirm the murder weapon."


    "After all, although ''Brave New World'' is 90% likely to be the murder weapon, investigation requires not 90%, not 99%, but 100% certainty!"


    "Besides the Banned Book being the weapon: you and Yin Caimei might have seen the same thing, drunk the same water source, or eaten the same food that could have led to you both suffering the same curse."


    "Even..."


    "We can''t rule out the tiny possibility that someone crazily afflicted random individuals or a large area in the Investigation Bureau with a curse."


    Pausing, Qin Shuman became serious, "Investigations must be meticulous."


    "So, let us first confirm the murder weapon before moving on to the next step in reasoning."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded his head.


    He knew he was a novice detective, far less experienced than Qin Shuman. But his strength was that he took advice well. So he immediately replied, "That copy of ''Brave New World'' is still in the temporary office of the investigation team."


    "I will go get it now, then compare it with the Catastrophe Curse on Yin Caimei''s body."


    Having said that, he turned towards the door.


    However, just as he reached the door and his hand touched the doorknob,


    suddenly, from outside the door came the steady sound of boots: "Tap... tap... tap..."


    Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, and his movements paused.


    "Tap... tap... tap..." The footsteps continued to approach, and finally... stopped right outside the morgue door.


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, and he let go of the doorknob.


    Then, at this moment, the doorknob which he had released turned a few times, making a "clicking" sound.


    But since Qiu Tu had locked the morgue door upon entering, it didn''t open.


    This clearly took the person outside by surprise.


    After a half-second of silence, the person outside asked in a deep voice, "Who''s in there?"


    At the sound of the person''s voice, Qiu Tu was taken aback, then his heart suddenly leapt.


    It was the voice of Zheng Tao, a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, his superior and head of the Interrogation Section.


    ''Why has he come?'' Qiu Tu wondered.


    At this thought, Qiu Tu''s brow knitted slightly, sensing something was amiss.

 Chapter 90 This Person is Somewhat Abnormal (7k for followers)

    Qiu Tu had good reason to feel that something was off.This morgue had been specifically requested by him to store Yin Caimei''s body alone.


    And given Zheng Tao''s footsteps just now, he wasn''t making rounds on the floor but coming straight for this morgue.


    But the problem was... the Yin Caimei case was assigned to Qiu Tu alone by Jia Shu, and it had nothing to do with the Interrogation Section.


    Furthermore, Zheng Tao was not a member of the investigation team, so he had no reason to come to this morgue.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu quietly took a few steps back to create the illusion that he was not by the door and then finally called out, "I''m inside."


    Zheng Tao was clearly familiar with Qiu Tu''s voice, so as soon as he heard it, he hesitated and asked, "Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also pretended to be suddenly aware and said, "Oh, it''s Chief Zheng. What''s the matter?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu gave Qin Shuman a meaningful look.


    Qin Shuman tacitly handed the "Mist Index Book" to Qiu Tu and then took a glance around the entire morgue.


    Finally, she crawled into a morgue cabinet.


    At this time, Zheng Tao''s doubtful voice also came through, "What are you doing in the morgue?"


    Qiu Tu quietly closed that morgue cabinet and then walked to the door, opening the morgue room door.


    Standing outside the door, as expected, was a puzzled Zheng Tao.


    Qiu Tu, standing at the doorway, said with a smile, "How novel. I''m obviously performing an autopsy in the morgue. What else would I be here for, to be a corpse?"


    After being indirectly snubbed by Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao frowned, peered into the morgue, and then asked, "Are you investigating a case, Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, but he nodded nonetheless, "Yes."


    After speaking, he countered, "What brings Chief Zheng strolling around the morgue so late without going off duty?"


    Zheng Tao responded with an "Oh," saying, "Nothing much, just making a routine inspection."


    "I noticed the lights on in your morgue, and it seemed like there was some faint talking inside, so I decided to check it out."


    He then gestured with his hand, "Do you mind if I take a look inside?"


    Although he asked, he had already started to step into the morgue even before finishing his question.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze darkened slightly, but he did not obstruct.


    Zheng Tao, with boots clacking "tap... tap... tap..." on the floor, took a slow look around the morgue''s setup. "Are you here by yourself, Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a confirming "Mm."


    As soon as he realized that Zheng Tao was outside the door, Qiu Tu pondered whether or not to let Zheng Tao meet Qin Shuman (Su Xiaowan).


    But considering that he and Tang Feifei had yet to really connect, exposing Su Xiaowan now could lead to various complications. In the end, he decided that it was best for Qin Shuman (Su Xiaowan) to hide and for him to deal with the situation at the door.


    Originally, he thought he would just brush Zheng Tao off and send him away.


    But who could have expected that Zheng Tao came to check specifically because he faintly heard voices and that he would barge in directly, completely ignoring Qiu Tu''s refusal? It was a clear lack of respect.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s resistant mood, Zheng Tao, while lifting the white cloth over Yin Caimei''s corpse to glance at it, turned back to look at Qiu Tu and said smilingly, "Don''t get me wrong, Deputy Chief Qiu."


    "I''m not being nosy."


    "It''s just that... as you know, this world is filled with many strange, ''Mystery'' powers."


    "And bodies tend to attract these kinds of forces."


    "I did indeed hear some odd sounds, and for peace of mind, I needed to check more thoroughly."


    After speaking, he went to the morgue cabinets on either side and started to pull them out with a "shrr-shrr" noise.


    Since this morgue room had been cleared specifically for Yin Caimei, all the cabinets were empty.


    Zheng Tao would open one, glance inside, close it, and then open the next.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also took out the "Mist Index Book," then said, "Chief Zheng, could it be the sounds emitted from this ''Cataclysmic treasure'' that you were talking about?"


    He added, "I was just using this to inspect Yin Caimei''s body."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao stopped in his tracks in front of the cabinet where Qin Shuman was hiding.


    He turned to look at the ''Cataclysmic treasure'' in Qiu Tu''s eyes, showing a glint of contemplation.


    After a moment, he nodded affirmatively, "It''s possible."


    "After all, ''Cataclysmic treasures'' may indeed make various noises when in use."


    With that, he yanked open the cabinet where Qin Shuman was hidden!


    Inside the cabinet...


    It was empty.


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao slowly closed the cabinet and then proceeded to open each of the remaining morgue cabinets.


    Soon, all the cabinets had been checked.


    Zheng Tao took another look around the morgue and then turned to Qiu Tu with a smile, "Looks like it was indeed the ''Cataclysmic treasures'' making the noise."


    "I was too sensitive."


    Concluding, he walked over to Qiu Tu, clapped him on the shoulder, and comforted him, "Chief Qiu, you''ve worked hard."


    "Seeing you volunteer for overtime tonight instead of leaving early like yesterday pleases me."


    "As investigators, we ought to use every minute and every second to work hard. Only then can we become the right-hand men of the Bureau Chief in the future."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Although this world does not have the phrase ''to serve the people,'' the blunt aspiration to be the leader''s ''lapdog'' still took Qiu Tu by surprise.


    So... he responded with a smile, "Chief Zheng is overthinking it. The overtime I''m putting in tonight, I''ll make up with a day off tomorrow." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 90 This Person is Somewhat Abnormal (7k for followers)_2

    "I won''t be coming tomorrow morning."Just as Zheng Tao was about to walk out, he stumbled, nearly tripping over.


    He glared resentfully at Qiu Tu, huffed lightly, and then strode out of the morgue.


    After he had left, Qiu Tu didn''t let his guard down.


    He took a deep breath and then muttered to himself, "Ah, I still need to check the murder weapon."


    Having said that, he also stepped out of the mortuary to fetch the evidence...


    .....


    Once he had left, the entire morgue slowly fell into silence.


    No one knew how long had passed, perhaps a minute, or maybe five.


    In the quiet morgue, suddenly, the sound of a door handle "clicking" as it turned could be heard.


    But perhaps because Qiu Tu had locked the door before leaving, after a few twists, the door to the mortuary did not open.


    However, this time the person outside the door was clearly prepared.


    Inserting the key and turning it twice, the door opened, and Zheng Tao, who had left earlier, returned.


    He scanned the entire morgue with a brooding gaze, then went straight to open all the mortuary cabinets and pulled back the white cloth covering Yin Caimei''s body.


    After checking twice to make sure no one was there, Zheng Tao''s eyebrows furrowed.


    He restored everything to its original state, then left the morgue, relocking the door with a spare key.


    Standing at the entrance of the morgue, Zheng Tao''s gaze flickered a few times before he took out his communicator and dialed a number.


    Soon, the call connected.


    Zheng Tao spoke softly, "Minister, there is only Qiu Tu inside."


    A voice tinged with amusement came from the earpiece, "Oh? Is that so? Did you check carefully?"


    Zheng Tao replied, "Very carefully. I checked before he left and again after he left, and there was no one."


    "He should be working on the case alone tonight."


    Jia Shu spoke in a half-mocking tone, "Well, that''s good, that''s good."


    Zheng Tao was clearly puzzled, and he tentatively asked, "Minister, have you discovered something?"


    Jia Shu said with a laugh, "No, I was just a bit worried. Now it seems, my worries were unnecessary."


    For some reason, Zheng Tao detected a hint of disappointment in Jia Shu''s words.


    He was tempted to ask what Jia Shu was worried about, but knowing his superior''s character well, he opened his mouth but ultimately didn''t ask anything...


    Meanwhile...


    [Jia Shu''s Suspicion -1, Satisfaction -3]


    In the temporary office of the Investigation Bureau, just as Qiu Tu had gotten his hands on "Brave New World," a prompt from the Loyalty Game appeared in front of him.


    He paused, then was full of question marks.


    ''Suspicion -1? Satisfaction -3?''


    Was he hallucinating?


    Why had both the suspicion and satisfaction decreased?


    Qiu Tu really felt he couldn''t understand Jia Shu''s game values at all.


    What the hell was this all about?


    Could it be that Jia Shu was actually a spy?


    And he was disappointed upon discovering Qiu Tu''s loyalty to the Investigation Bureau?


    Or was he a pervert who would only be satisfied if Qiu Tu betrayed the Investigation Bureau?


    Qiu Tu felt, indeed, perverted thoughts were hard to understand!


    While grumbling about Jia Shu in his mind, Qiu Tu took the evidence and headed to the morgue.


    Upon arriving at the morgue, he unlocked the door with his key and saw the rows of storage units. There stood Qin Shuman... right next to the particular unit she''d been hiding behind, her face a complex tapestry as she watched Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu first locked the door from the inside and then quietly asked, "Did he come again?"


    Qin Shuman slightly nodded her head.


    A smile spread across Qiu Tu''s face.


    Fortunately, when he realized Zheng Tao was problematic, he decisively used his Cataclysmic ability "Order Space" and set the rule for today: except for himself, no one else could see, hear, smell, touch, or sense Qin Shuman''s (Su Xiaowan''s) presence.


    And after he had left the morgue, he still hadn''t lifted the rule.


    That''s why Zheng Tao was unable to notice Qin Shuman''s existence during both of his investigations: in reality, Qin Shuman just lay quietly inside that particular storage unit.


    Moreover, what made Qiu Tu even more relieved was that both Su Xiaowan and Zheng Tao were ordinary people.


    If either of them were Cataclysmics like Qin Shuman or Jia Shu, then Qiu Tu''s ability would have been ineffective and he wouldn''t have been able to deceive them as he had managed to do.


    At that time, he would have had to fabricate even more excuses and lies to cover things up.


    Indeed, Cataclysmic abilities can change the world!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu lifted his Cataclysmic ability and handed over the "Mist Index Book" and "Brave New World" to Qin Shuman.


    Feeling the unpleasant sensation of his spirit power being drained, Qiu Tu managed to speak, "Help me see if this book is the murder weapon."


    Qin Shuman glanced at him with a complex look, took the book, and used the "Mist Index Book."


    After a moment, just as Qiu Tu felt the side effects of the Cataclysmic ability fading away, Qin Shuman''s voice also reached his ears, "I''ve checked. This book indeed is the murder weapon."


    Qiu Tu looked up at Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman showed him a smile, and then she said,


    "Since this book is the weapon that killed Yin Caimei,"


    "then¡­ this case now has only one mystery left to solve."


    "That is, who gave this book to Yin Caimei,"


    "Once we understand this, we can largely determine who the murderer is,"


    "and...," Qin Shuman paused, a glint of cold light flashing in her eyes, "the murderer is most likely a mole from the Anti-government Armed Forces!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu lightly nodded and then asked, "So, who do you think gave her the book?"


    After pondering for a moment, Qin Shuman shook her head slightly, "It''s hard to say. Too many people are suspects. Like Vice President Tian, like those transporters, like one of her friends."


    "You had better investigate people close to Yin Caimei or Vice President Tian,"


    "and find out when exactly this book appeared in her hands," sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This will help us narrow down the suspects quickly,"


    At this point, Qin Shuman paused a moment and added, "Let''s hope it''s not something she brought with her when she left the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, a thoughtful look crossed Qiu Tu''s face as he slightly shook his head, "It''s unlikely that she had it from the beginning."


    "According to previous statements, her encounter with Vice President Tian was by chance,"


    "The Anti-government Armed Forces likely don''t have the resources to provide every ordinary Scout with a Cataclysmic treasure capable of silencing others, right?"


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s analysis, Qin Shuman also nodded slightly.


    Meanwhile, as the two conversed,


    suddenly, Qiu Tu''s communicator rang with a "ring ring ring."


    Qiu Tu took the communicator out of his pocket to check it, his face lighting up with a brilliant smile, "The messenger has arrived,"


    he showed the caller ID to Qin Shuman.


    It displayed prominently: Tian Xiaotian¡­


    ------

 Chapter 91 The Puppet Master Appears (7k for Monthly Ticket)

    ```Seeing the name that appeared on Qiu Tu''s communicator screen, Qin Shuman froze for a moment. Then she looked at Qiu Tu with a slightly complicated expression.


    To be honest, Qiu Tu really gave her a lot of surprises today... and scares.


    First, she accidentally discovered through the "Mist Index Book" that Qiu Tu was actually a Cataclysmic.


    Moreover, he was one who could still partake in a successful Cataclysm Awakening after possession of another person''s body.


    This unheard-of incident had already shaken her worldview.


    Then, right after that, there was the incident where she hid in the morgue cabinet and wasn''t found by Zheng Tao.


    Honestly, at the moment Zheng Tao pulled open the morgue cabinet, Qin Shuman''s heart nearly leaped to her throat. Even her mind had started to rapidly think of ways to deal with the imminent crisis.


    But who knew that Zheng Tao would act as if he hadn''t seen her and closed the morgue cabinet again.


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was truly bewildered for a good ten seconds. It was only after combining the mysterious force that had descended upon her that she guessed Qiu Tu might have used his Cataclysmic ability or treasures to pull the wool over everyone''s eyes.


    And now, Qiu Tu had already established contact early on with Tian Xiaotian, the son of Vice President Tian, getting Tian Xiaotian to provide him with information about his father.


    Honestly, Qin Shuman felt like she was refreshing her understanding of Qiu Tu over and over again today.


    But it seemed like Qiu Tu always had new surprises waiting for her.


    This also made Qiu Tu''s image in her heart increasingly mysterious...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had no idea what Qin Shuman was thinking.


    After showing the communicator to Qin Shuman, he laughed and answered the call.


    Once the call connected, the somewhat honest voice of Tian Xiaotian came from the receiver, "Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "Brother Tian. We don''t use titles after work."


    Tian Xiaotian didn''t really care about titles or such formalities, so he just went with the flow and called him again, "Brother Tu."


    Qiu Tu acknowledged with a "Hey!" and then probed, "Brother Tian, have you made a decision?"


    Tian Xiaotian hummed affirmatively over the phone and said, "Yes."


    "I''ve thought it over long and hard at home. I feel that cooperating with you would indeed make it easier to clear my father of suspicion."


    "Plus, I want to do something for my father, so I made this call to you."


    After saying this, he paused and asked tentatively, "Brother Tu, is it true that by providing ''Travel Records'' and ''Gift Registry'' from the past year between my father and Yin Caimei, you can help my father?"


    When Qiu Tu first spoke to Tian Xiaotian that morning, he had merely been looking for an excuse to drag Tian Xiaotian into the mix.


    But now, having found the murder weapon and the most crucial clue to the case, Qiu Tu did only need Yin Caimei''s ''Itinerary'' and ''Gift Registry'' from the past year to significantly narrow down the range of suspects.


    So without any hesitation, he said, "Yes."


    Hearing this, Tian Xiaotian obviously breathed a sigh of relief, then he said, "I''ve got both documents."


    "I found them in my father''s secretary''s office."


    "Inside, there''s a record of all the travel between my father and Yin Caimei for the year. While it may not be complete, it should be fairly comprehensive."


    "How should I get them to you?"


    Upon hearing Tian Xiaotian''s words, a trace of excitement flickered through Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    He quickly said, "Leave me an address. I''ll come over right away, and we can meet and talk."


    Tian Xiaotian, sounding as if he was stealing something, whispered out an address.


    Looking at the location of the address, those documents must have just been stolen from Vice President Tian''s company.


    Qiu Tu quickly jotted down the address, then finally hung up the phone...


    .....


    At the same time.


    Xintian Communications Company, General Manager''s Secretary Office.


    Tian Xiaotian put down the phone, his face showing a conflicted yet bewildered expression.


    He wasn''t sure if he was doing the right thing.


    But... based on Butler Shi''s investigation of Qiu Tu, everything Qiu Tu told him today hadn''t been a lie:


    Qiu Tu was indeed just an ordinary civilian from Xinjie City at the beginning. Later, during the recruitment drive by the Investigation Bureau, he was selected because he could read, write, and drive, and was assigned to work in the Administrative Office as a clerical investigator.


    Afterward, having performed well in the Administrative Office, he was noticed by Secretary Bai, who then recommended him to Yan Chen, promoting him to Second-Class Investigator.


    Subsequently, because he saved Yan Chen''s mistress, Qiu Tu was promoted by Yan Chen to First Level Detective and was taken into the Political Department by Jia Shu to investigate the Qin Family.


    No one knew what he did in the Qin Family, but shortly after his arrival, the Patriarch of the Qin Family openly aligned with Yan Chen, and as a result, he was promoted to Chief Qiu.


    So, one could say that every step of Qiu Tu''s promotion was shadowed by Yan Chen''s faction, with Secretary Bai and Jia Shu, two of Yan Chen''s right-hand men, being his benefactors.


    With this in mind, Tian Xiaotian felt somewhat reassured: after all, if such a person couldn''t be trusted, then who else in the Investigation Bureau could be trusted?


    It''s not like Qiu Tu would still harbor ill intentions towards Yan Chen and Jia Shu after being promoted to Deputy Staff, right?


    With this thought, Tian Xiaotian finally made up his mind.


    With a determined look in his eyes, he packed all the files into his backpack and then stealthily slipped out of the secretary''s office, heading downstairs.


    ```


    However, what he didn''t see was that, just as he turned the corner, the secretary to the Vice President Tian happened to walk by on the other side of the corridor.


    The secretary caught a glimpse of the broad back that flashed by the corner and hesitated for a moment.


    ''Was that President Tian''s son?''


    She looked at her office, then back at the empty corner, and shook her head slightly, paying it no mind.


    .....


    Driving with Qin Shuman, they arrived at the office building of Vice President Tian''s communications company. Qiu Tu met Tian Xiaotian alone in the alley next to the communications company and obtained the travel records and gift registry of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei.


    Before handing over the materials, Tian Xiaotian seemed a bit uneasy, so he clutched his backpack and asked Qiu Tu with his little eyes, "Brother Tu, swear to me! You truly want to help clear my father''s name!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate at all and made a vow, "Don''t worry. I swear on my patron Jia Shu, the minister. If I intend to harm your father, may he never rest in peace!"


    Tian Xiaotian sharply noticed the problem with this promise:


    Although Jia Shu indeed was Qiu Tu''s superior, but... Qiu Tu''s promotions had more to do with Yan Chen, right!


    He quickly took back his backpack, shaking his head, "No! You must swear on Director Yan!"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    ''Director Yan, this kid won''t let you off, ah. It has nothing to do with me.''


    While internally complaining, Qiu Tu yet again made a vow on Yan Chen''s life and fortune.


    This time, Tian Xiaotian finally showed a relieved expression on his face and confidently handed over the backpack to Qiu Tu.


    Taking the backpack and looking at the "foolish son of a landowner" in front of him, Qiu Tu felt as if his conscience was slightly troubled... so he kindly and tactfully reminded him, "Xiaotian, you should eat less when you can. Getting too fat can affect the blood supply to your brain."


    But to his surprise, Tian Xiaotian looked at Qiu Tu with astonishment and said, "Where am I fat? My dad said that I''m just... inactive because our house is too small, and my muscles are a bit slack, that''s all!"


    As he spoke, he couldn''t help but touch his belly, muttering quietly, "Now that you mention it, I do feel a bit hungry. I need to find something to eat later."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Indeed, you look hungry, so hungry you''re starting to talk nonsense....


    After saying goodbye to Tian Xiaotian, Qiu Tu returned to the car with the travel records and gift list.


    Qin Shuman had been waiting there, and the two of them sat in the car to sort through the box of materials.


    While organizing, Qiu Tu curiously asked, "Assistant Su has been quiet for a while, hasn''t she?"


    Qin Shuman chuckled lightly, "She''s asleep."


    "This girl has no other faults but just sleeps a lot." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu laughed, commenting, "In this era, having good sleep quality is actually a bonus."


    Qin Shuman smiled and shook her head.


    As she continued to look through the materials, she added, "The approach you chose is very good."


    "Vice President Tian is not like ordinary people. He''s always busy with affairs, and everywhere he goes, he''s taken by car."


    "In the Planning Area, private cars are a rarity, and with the fuel being so expensive, each of his trips has to be recorded by the secretary, who then regularly checks the fuel costs with the drivers and the finance department."


    "Moreover, with his frequent business interactions and numerous social reciprocities, and since the value of gifts given and received must be at least equivalent, the secretary also organizes a gift list for easy reference when returning favors."


    "So, with these two sets of records, we can quickly understand Vice President Tian''s social and connection circles, and even determine his range of movements, secret bases, safe houses, and other hidden locations."


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile and flipped through the pages of the gift list rapidly.


    Both being Cataclysmics, their physical and their mental capacities were much stronger than those of ordinary people.


    So, in just a few short minutes, Qiu Tu quickly pulled out a gift list.


    He carefully reviewed it for a moment, his brows slightly furrowed, and he muttered softly, "Why would it be them?"


    Noticing Qiu Tu''s unusual reaction, Qin Shuman put down the file she was looking through, looked up at him.


    Seeing him engrossed in the materials, she moved closer to Qiu Tu and started looking as well.


    After one glance, she too was a bit surprised, "The Qin Family?"


    She turned to Qiu Tu, and he just happened to turn his head to look at her.


    The space in the car was already narrow, and since they were so close to each other, as they met eyes, their noses touched together, and it felt like there was a faint current flowing between their lips.


    His nose filled with the scent of Su Xiaowan, looking at a face different from Qin Shuman with hints of naivety and innocence, and feeling Qin Shuman''s familiar expressions, gaze, and aura...


    Qiu Tu found his lips getting dry. The contrast of unfamiliarity mixed with familiarity made it all too easy to make a mistake...


    Qin Shuman clearly felt the change in Qiu Tu, coughed once, stepped back, and gently reminded him in a low voice, "Stop it. It''s weird."


    After saying that, she pointed to the name on that list, bringing the conversation back on track, "This Banned Book is actually related to the Qin Family?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu adjusted his emotions and refocused on the task at hand.


    The list indeed had connections to the Qin Family.


    It was from a small-scale dinner hosted by the Patriarch of the Qin Family.


    Not many attended the dinner, besides the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, and of the third house, Qin Shu, there were only a handful of others, most of whom were major businessmen associated with the Qin Family.

 Chapter 92 The Truth Surfaces (7k for follow-up reads!)

    And following the etiquette, after the banquet, everyone would exchange gifts with each other.The gift list recorded the presents that the Qin Family and other attendees had given to Vice President Tian....


    Within it, the book "Brave New World" was conspicuously listed.


    However, what was odd was that most gifts on the list had a record of who had sent them. The only exception was this book, which had no record whatsoever.


    It was as if... someone had secretly placed it in the pile of gifts.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced over the guest list from that banquet.


    Then his eyes slightly narrowed as he discovered another familiar name.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu quickly pointed to that name and said to Qin Shuman, "Look, who is this?"


    Qin Shuman followed the direction of Qiu Tu''s finger and saw a name she recognized: Shun Yun Trading Co., Ltd.''s Qian Dafu.


    Upon seeing this name, Qin Shuman fell into thought for a moment; then her eyes suddenly widened as she turned to Qiu Tu, "One of the transport companies that was robbed?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    He recalled the contents written in the case file.


    Because of the listening devices installed by Yin Caimei, six transport companies in Xinjie City had been suffering from the predations of the United Front anti-government armed forces over the past year.


    Among them, Shun Yun Trading suffered the heaviest losses.


    They had not only lost a large amount of grain and life necessities purchased from other cities but also a significant quantity of herbs and potions.


    "There''s something wrong here." Qiu Tu tapped on the names of Shun Yun Trading and the Qin brothers, Qin Heng and Qin Shu.


    Qin Shuman nodded, then stretched out her hand towards Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu discreetly reached into his pocket and handed her the communicator specially made by the Security Department.


    Qin Shuman took the customized communicator, pressed a few numbers, and then dialed out.


    The call connected after a moment, and Qin Shuman spoke expressionlessly, "This is Rain Butterfly, help me look into the relationship between the Qin Family and Shun Yun Trading''s Qian Dafu."


    "Also, review Old Fourth Qin again to see if he knows any secrets."


    After the person on the other end responded, Qin Shuman hung up the phone.


    As Qiu Tu continued to rummage through other materials, he said, "I feel like there''s really something wrong with the Qin Family."


    What he meant by "something wrong" obviously wasn''t referring to the Qin Family''s previously vague connections with the anti-government armed forces.


    After all, in the Planning Area, especially the newly designated Planning Area, most forces had more or less connections with the anti-government armed forces¡ªit was only before the influence of the Sanctuary had expanded to this area that these forces had been hedging their bets.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s "something wrong" clearly indicated a deeper cooperation between the two forces.


    As the head of the Investigation Department of the Security Department and an old hand at the job, Qin Shuman seriously nodded in agreement with Qiu Tu''s view, "Once is a coincidence, twice is a coincidence, but to call it coincidence three or four times is implausible."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Having reached a consensus, they both immersed themselves in their own world as they continued to go through the materials.


    For a while, no one spoke in the car, and it gradually quieted down.


    Blue moonlight streamed through the car window and draped both of them in a soft and mysterious veil.


    Time passed, perhaps only 10 minutes, or it could have been a full half-hour.


    "Ring, ring, ring!"


    The crisp ring of the communicator suddenly pierced the silence within the car.


    Qin Shuman snapped back to reality and answered the phone with a succinct, "Speak."


    The person reporting on the other end spoke so softly and quickly that Qiu Tu could barely make out what was being said.


    He just saw Qin Shuman''s expression change, going from calm to surprised, and then from surprised to excited!


    After a moment, Qin Shuman hung up the phone and turned to look at Qiu Tu with barely concealed jubilation, "Qiu Tu! We might have stumbled upon a major case!"


    Qiu Tu looked at her somewhat blankly.


    Qin Shuman leaned in close to Qiu Tu and lowered her voice, "Let me tell you, it''s shocking what you find when you look¡ªShun Yun Trading was actually founded by Old Master Qin."


    "He already had a certain status in Xinjie City, and he had also carved out his own territory in the underworld."


    "In order to train his own fighters and to expand his financial resources, he supported one of his confidants, directing him to take nearly half of the gang''s core to establish Shun Yun Trading, mainly dealing with the transportation of materials."


    "And that confidant was the father of Qian Dafu¡­"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s surprised look, Qin Shuman continued, "Later on, a few years ago, both Old Master Qin and the father of Qian Dafu died in accidents. Moreover, as the Qin Family wanted to go legitimate, the two companies ostensibly went their separate ways on the surface and no longer had any dealings."


    "But now it seems... the truth might be quite different."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, thoughtfully musing for a brief moment before conjecturing, "So, Shun Yun Trading is very likely the real dark hand of the Qin Family."


    "Some of the truly illegal industries of the Qin Family, like cooperation with the United Front, were in fact separated out long before Old Master Qin''s death."


    "And the black and grey industries that Fourth Master Qin got from the division of the family assets were actually those with very low risk already."


    Qin Shuman''s face lit up with excitement, "Exactly!"


    "So, we''ve been investigating Old Fourth Qin for so many days without much progress, and in the end, it''s because we were looking in the wrong direction!"


    "If we investigate Shun Yun Trading, we might be able to dig out the Qin Family!"


    "And you can perfectly close your case too!"


    Qiu Tu was not swayed by Qin Shuman''s excitement; he patted her hand and analyzed calmly, "So, you suspect that the Qin Family might be the mastermind behind the Yin Caimei case?"


    Seeing Qin Shuman nod, Qiu Tu continued, "You''re guessing... that the Qin family sensed danger due to our earlier investigation and the arrest of Yin Caimei was coincidental. So, worried about being exposed and getting themselves burned, they decided to make a clean break and silence her?"


    "And simultaneously frame Vice President Tian in the process?"


    Qin Shuman nodded in agreement and added, "Right. So, I suspect that Vice President Tian is truly being wronged."


    "The robbery of the transportation company might well be a play they''ve staged themselves."


    "Shun Da Trading and other transportation companies were likely already dealing in illegal business with the United Front. Then, by chance, Yin Caimei got recruited by Vice President Tian into the chamber of commerce, which provided these transportation companies with the perfect opportunity to set a trap."


    Though it was just a speculation at this point, Qin Shuman had a hunch: this could very well be the truth!


    With this in mind, Qin Shuman turned to Qiu Tu and asked, "What do you think?"


    Since Qin Shuman began her analysis, Qiu Tu had been listening intently. Now, hesitating slightly upon her inquiry, he finally nodded, "I do think it''s a possibility."


    Seeing Qiu Tu agree with her theory, Qin Shuman couldn''t sit still any longer. She said to Qiu Tu, "Please help me take Xiaowan home!"


    "I need to go ahead and thoroughly investigate this case."


    After speaking, perhaps worried that Qiu Tu might misunderstand, she took another look at him, "Don''t worry, I won''t steal your credit. Nor will I interfere with your case investigation."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu waved it off with a smile, "It''s fine. I don''t mind that."


    After looking at Qiu Tu a second time and making sure he truly didn''t mind, Qin Shuman kissed him happily, then left Su Xiaowan''s body and decoupled her attachment.


    ¡ª¡ªClearly, the pressure Director Dai had been putting on her had nearly left her unable to catch her breath.


    An unexpected case falling into her lap now was a complete relief from her urgent predicament!


    If she could solve this case or do a good job with the preliminary intelligence work, not only would her past mistakes be overlooked, but she might even get a promotion and a raise!


    So... in her excitement, she had even forgotten that she wasn''t in her own body but in Su Xiaowan''s...


    Suddenly kissed by "Su Xiaowan," Qiu Tu felt strangely awkward...


    He looked at Su Xiaowan slumping in the passenger seat, shook his head slightly, then leaned over... and fastened her seatbelt.


    Perhaps because of that kiss, the friction between their bodies made Qiu Tu feel like his blood was rushing faster.


    After securing the seat belt, Qiu Tu reorganized the files, then followed the address left by Qin Shuman to take Su Xiaowan home.


    The vehicle traveled down the dimly lit street as Qiu Tu quietly pondered over the information he had discovered just now.


    In truth, Qiu Tu wasn''t afraid of Qin Shuman stealing his credit, nor was he concerned about her affecting his investigation.


    That''s because his responsibility was solely the case of Yin Caimei''s death; the robbery of the transportation company by the United Front had nothing to do with him.


    In his few days at the Political Department, Qiu Tu quickly learned a key to survival: to stick to one''s post and abide by its responsibilities.


    Investigating on your own another team''s case, even solving it, wouldn''t bring much credit but could easily attract resentment.


    Beyond that, Qiu Tu also noticed several details that Qin Shuman had missed.


    Perhaps due to different perspectives, while Qin Shuman was excited about uncovering a major case, Qiu Tu felt a chill down his spine.


    Was this really all about framing and setting someone up?


    The Qin family and the bosses of those transportation companies, even if they weren''t afraid of Vice President Tian, wouldn''t want to offend a vice president of a chamber of commerce with the backing of a sanctuary so casually, right? S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, they designed a trap for him simply because Yin Caimei was chosen by Vice President Tian?


    Qiu Tu thought that was indeed too cruel and insane.


    Moreover, if the Qin family was really framing Vice President Tian, then what was Jia Shu''s unusual behavior about?


    Could it be that Jia Shu didn''t want to assist Vice President Tian, but instead wanted to accommodate the Qin family?


    Then why did he hint to Qiu Tu that this matter needed to be settled to Vice President Tian''s satisfaction?


    One question after another led Qiu Tu to form a bolder hypothesis than Qin Shuman''s.


    It was... that all of this was indeed a self-scripted, self-directed scam.


    But... from Yin Caimei to those transportation companies, to Vice President Tian, to the Qin family, they were all actors in this scam.


    Even Jia Shu might have glimpsed some truth but chose to temporarily let it slide for the interests of the Investigation Bureau!


    They wove web upon web, layer upon layer of lies, merely to create more buffers, to hide even deeper...


    Though he might have guessed the real gist of the case, Qiu Tu was faced with a tremendously difficult question.


    That was... what path he should take...


    Carrying deep doubts, Qiu Tu took Su Xiaowan back home.


    Su Xiaowan lived on New Fang Street, which was the same place where Qiu Tu had been stopped that morning.


    This indicated that her family conditions were fairly good. Before Xinjie City was established, her parents likely had jobs at some reputable company or institution and held some status in society.


    Their children, having received decent education and maintained good character, without any dark background, were among the fastest to climb the social ladder in the year Xinjie City was founded ¡ª the three major power institutions favored such young people with a clean background and a decent education. Song Qing was also one of them.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car in front of Su Xiaowan''s building, woke her up and watched her silhouette ascend the beautifully decorated multi-story western-style building, floor by floor, until all the lights went out. Then, extinguishing his cigarette, he turned and drove home.


    Arriving at Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu parked the car and walked towards his own home in the shabby tube building.


    Reaching the building, the lights were still on at home.


    Qiu Tu climbed the stairs and opened the door, surprised to find... Shen Lingshuang was not asleep on the sofa tonight; instead, there were "rustling" sounds coming from the room.


    Curiously, Qiu Tu walked over and then saw... Shen Lingshuang, showing her fair back, trying on lingerie.


    Only... it wasn''t just her trying on lingerie; she was actually stuffing things inside it....


    -----

 Chapter 93 Congratulations, Youre a Girl Now (7k)

    Seeing the shocking scene before him, Qiu Tu was dumbfounded.He gaped at Shen Lingshuang''s actions, then asked, "I say... what are you doing?"


    Perhaps because she was too focused on her mischief, Shen Lingshuang hadn''t heard someone entering the house. Therefore, when Qiu Tu spoke up, she got startled right away.


    She covered her chest, then turned around with a flushed face and asked Qiu Tu in surprise, "When did you get back?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Is that the point?


    While internally complaining, Qiu Tu replied, "Just got back. But... saw everything."


    Shen Lingshuang''s face turned as red as an apple. She shot an annoyed glance at Qiu Tu and, in a fit of resignation, turned back around and continued stuffing tissues into her bra.


    Perhaps because she was acting out of spite, her movements were so exaggerated that Qiu Tu could even catch a glimpse of the petite pair within.


    Qiu Tu stroked his chin, quietly appreciating the view while curiously asking, "What on earth are you doing?"


    Shen Lingshuang retorted stubbornly, "Wearing a bra, okay? What, do you go out without wearing a bra?"


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly said, "First, I indeed don''t wear that kind of bra. Second... even if others wear a bra, they wouldn''t stuff so much tissue in it, would they?"


    "You... you know nothing. I''m doing this to protect my chest!" With her face red enough to steam from the top of her head, Shen Lingshuang still pretended to be indifferent and pulled down her T-shirt!


    Not to mention... after stuffing all that in, Shen Lingshuang''s front did look considerably more pronounced.


    Feeling Qiu Tu''s strange gaze, Shen Lingshuang stood up, clenched her fist, and with a flushed face, went to the bathroom.


    As she passed by Qiu Tu, she even purposefully bumped her padded chest against him, leaving Qiu Tu caught between laughter and tears.


    Though she was acting tough in front of Qiu Tu.


    Once she escaped into the bathroom, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t hold it in any longer. She covered her face with her hands, her expression filled with despair!


    She had been eating and sleeping with Qiu Tu these last couple of days, but he had made no moves on her whatsoever.


    This made her doubt her own charm!


    So, taking advantage of a trip to Xiafang Street for shopping, she secretly bought a few sexy bras, planning to seduce Qiu Tu.


    Even... worrying that her undeveloped body wouldn''t capture Qiu Tu''s interest, after much thought, she decided to pad her bra tonight as a deception!


    But... before the scam could start, she got caught.


    "Wuwuwu..." The more Shen Lingshuang thought about it, the more aggrieved she felt, and she couldn''t help crying with her mouth covered.


    ¡ªShe covered her mouth because she didn''t want Qiu Tu outside the bathroom to hear, which would be even more embarrassing.


    Meanwhile, outside the bathroom, Qiu Tu didn''t find this incident embarrassing at all; in fact, he found it highly amusing.


    He blinked his eyes, grinned, and walked to the bathroom door, knocking gently, "Actually... there''s no need for padding. I like you just the way you are."


    Inside the bathroom, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes were slightly teary, and she pouted her lips.


    Qiu Tu added another sentence, "After all, being small is cute too."


    Behind the door, Shen Lingshuang was close to exploding with anger.


    She opened the bathroom door, glared at Qiu Tu, and said, "You are the one who''s cute and tiny! Your entire family is cute and tiny!"


    Having said that, she marched back to the bedroom on her short legs, still fuming, jumped onto the bed, and covered her head with the blanket, ignoring Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang in her fuming state, the upward curve of Qiu Tu''s lips was almost uncontrollable.


    After a busy day of public affairs, teasing the adorable Shen Lingshuang felt quite fun.


    He took off his uniform jacket, went to the bathroom to freshen up, then returned to bed and lay down beside Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang was still under the covers, ignoring him.


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind; he simply hugged her and started caressing her through the blanket.


    Shen Lingshuang initially held back, but after a minute, she couldn''t stand it any longer. She threw off the blankets, her face flushed with embarrassment as she glared at Qiu Tu, "What are you doing?!"


    Qiu Tu looked at her sincerely and said, "I just want to prove to you... that I really do like you...."


    "Your figure."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words laced with suggestive undertones, Shen Lingshuang''s face grew even redder, seemingly on the verge of bleeding.


    She hit Qiu Tu a few times with the blanket, frustratedly saying, "No need for proof! Stop moving around!"


    Qiu Tu still smiled as he looked at her.


    Shen Lingshuang''s head felt like it was steaming with heat from his gaze.


    Annoyed, she covered herself with the blanket again, throwing in the towel, so to speak.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu moved in closer once again.


    Before long, he tossed the padded bra aside and then said softly, "Don''t stuff these things in anymore; it''s not good for your health."


    "If you think they''re too small, I can help you out. I have a family heirloom breast enlargement technique."


    Under the covers, Shen Lingshuang mumbled, "I''ll kill you in your sleep."


    But the words sounded more like coquettish pouting than threats...


    So, Qiu Tu''s smile grew even more brilliant.


    [108 Ways to Enhance Affection]#81: Take action when it''s time. Physical contact is the best way to increase mutual affection.


    PS: If you miss the opportunity, she won''t consider you a gentleman; rather, she might doubt her own charm and your feelings for her....


    [9 Days (Time until Yin Caimei''s case is closed)]


    ...


    The next morning.


    As soon as Qiu Tu opened his eyes, he saw Shen Lingshuang''s cute face close to his.


    She said seriously, "Congratulations, the surgery was successful, and you''re now a girl.


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly pulled her into his arms, then lazily said, "Sorry, the surgery failed. I can still feel it. Don''t believe me? Have a feel."


    Shen Lingshuang''s attempt at joking backfired, leaving her with a blushing face. She snuggled up to Qiu Tu''s chest like a tiny kitten.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s strong heartbeat, for some reason, she felt incredibly secure....


    After enjoying a moment of tranquility in the morning, Qiu Tu took the initiative to go downstairs and buy breakfast.


    While having breakfast, Qiu Tu also took the opportunity to check the gains from last night''s "Loyalty Game."


    Last night, although he had played around with Shen Lingshuang for a while, his good habits still made him set up the "Loyalty Game" before going to bed.


    Furthermore, compared to the previous two nights, this time, Qiu Tu even switched the participants of the two games:


    He sent Eagle to play the "Combat Game" with Wang Xi, while he had Ah-Tai play the "Salvage Game."


    He planned to test whether the game process and rewards would differ with different participants.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu first opened the "Combat Game."


    As his mind clicked, the settlement screen for the "Combat Game" appeared in front of him.


    Compared to Ah-Tai''s battles on the previous days, the battle screen between Eagle and Wang Xi was noticeably more brutal: Eagle''s pixelated figure wielded a bicycle chain, covered in wounds, dripping with blood.


    Meanwhile, Wang Xi''s pixelated figure this time had switched to a kitchen knife, and compared to the blood-soaked Eagle, Wang Xi was in a significantly better state, with hardly any wounds on his body.


    This discovery made Qiu Tu''s heart skip a beat: Could last night''s game have ended in failure?


    He hurriedly checked the game prompt.


    Fortunately... In the end, the victory in the battle was still won by Eagle: he had a bicycle chain wrapped around Wang Xi''s neck, squeezing until Wang Xi''s face turned nearly blue.


    Looking at Eagle''s hard-won victory, Qiu Tu guessed that the fighting power in the Combat Game might well be linked to real strength.


    Since his subordinates were all ordinary people for now, what they were comparing was their "hand-to-hand combat ability."


    But if in the future his subordinates included Cataclysmics, it''s likely that their Cataclysmic ability would become the decisive factor in confrontations!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu clicked on the reward for Eagle''s victory with his thoughts.


    With his click, several prompts suddenly popped up in front of him:


    [Victory in the Loyalty Game, reward obtained.]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +2]


    [Wang Xi Memory Fragment (Small) +1] Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Eh? Another memory fragment?''


    Last time, Qiu Tu had also obtained a piece of Wang Xi''s memory fragment, and although it was only ''tiny,'' he had gotten a lot of useful information; now he had obtained a ''small'' fragment, Qiu Tu suddenly grew curious about what interesting scenes he might see.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tried clicking on this small memory fragment with his thoughts.


    The next second, the scene shifted, and Qiu Tu found himself in a new room.


    This room was clearly much more luxurious than the last one.


    Not only was there a wool carpet on the floor, a leather sofa set, but there were even paintings hanging on the walls.


    And the man he had seen last time, dressed in a black suit, with bright red hair, wearing a clown mask, was sitting on the leather sofa, talking to "Qiu Tu"!


    "What have I told you! There''s no way it would be discovered!"


    "How could those idiotic detectives ever catch us!"


    "So, you being frightened every day is completely pointless worrying!"


    After saying that, the masked man tossed "Qiu Tu" a booklet, "We''ve got the herbs now. Next is potion crafting!"


    "These are the methods for crafting several potions!"


    "You only have one month, you must craft these potions!"


    "Qiu Tu" took the booklet and started to examine its contents.


    Meanwhile, the man continued to raise his arms, mumbling somewhat sickly, "With these potions!"


    "I will be able to make a move in Xinjie City!"


    "Bring ''pleasure'' to ''God''!"


    "Then ''God'' will definitely bestow me with more power!"


    As he spoke, the masked man seemed to burst with a mysterious force, which violently swept across "Qiu Tu''s" body.


    "Qiu Tu" clearly felt "his" body trembling and shrinking back a little.


    "He" felt "his" inner self was both excited and afraid...


    The memory image froze on the masked man turning to look at Qiu Tu, his crimson eyes matched with his sick behavior, utterly unnerving...


    ...


    "Qiu Tu? Qiu Tu?!"


    Hearing the call from far to near, Qiu Tu came back to his senses.


    "Whew!" He took a deep breath and looked at Shen Lingshuang who had gotten close to him, with a worried look on her face.


    He couldn''t help but ask, "What''s the matter?"


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with some worry and said, "You suddenly stopped moving while eating breakfast. And your body was stiff, eyes lifeless."


    After saying that, she showed a worried face, "You''re not sick, are you?"


    "Or is it a sequela from the Cataclysm Awakening?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also slowly emerged from the memory he had just experienced and smiled as he touched Shen Lingshuang''s head, "It''s nothing, I was just a bit distracted."


    Shen Lingshuang blushed and swatted away his hand that was making teasing gestures, "Go away! Pervert!"


    She realized that ever since she changed her underwear and was seen by Qiu Tu last night, Qiu Tu had become more and more bold, simply annoying!


    While playing with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu pondered over the information he had acquired from the memory fragment just now.


    For one, he could confirm that the memory presented by this memory fragment likely occurred within the past month.


    Because the memory clearly was from after Wang Xi and the masked man had robbed the pharmacy.


    Secondly, what Qiu Tu didn''t expect was that the masked man and Wang Xi didn''t rob the pharmacy for money, but for alchemy?


    But... what are those potions for?


    Why could they bring ''pleasure'' to ''God''? And why was the masked man so excited about it?


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon Shen Lingshuang...

 Chapter 94 Acquiring a New Cataclysmic Treasure! (7k)

    Suddenly feeling Qiu Tu''s gaze on her, Shen Lingshuang was initially stunned, then reflexively covered her chest with a wary expression and asked, "What are you doing?"Having already indulged his hand addiction a moment ago, Qiu Tu now had no other thoughts in mind and asked, "Right. If I gave you a potion formula or ingredients, could you roughly judge the effects of the potion?"


    Upon hearing this, Shen Lingshuang pondered for a bit and didn''t completely reject the idea, "I... can try."


    After receiving a positive response from Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu closed his eyes and carefully recalled the formulas of several potions from the first page of the booklet in his memory.


    A moment later, he opened his eyes and began listing the material names, "Defying Fate Scales, Dried Seven, Glabrous Greenbrier, Great Thistle...."


    As Qiu Tu named each ingredient and material, Shen Lingshuang''s brow furrowed tighter and tighter.


    It was not until Qiu Tu finished listing the ingredient names that she quietly said, "This seems like... some kind of Cataclysmic Potion."


    "And it''s one that can only be made using a certain Cataclysm Path."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu looked puzzled and asked, "What do you mean by a potion that can only be made using a certain Cataclysm Path?"


    When it came to knowledge about potions, Shen Lingshuang clearly became more haughty.


    She tilted her head up slightly and confidently explained, "Cataclysmic Potions are different from ordinary potions. Although they also follow the ''Star, Moon, King, and Minister'' ratio,"


    "the ''Moon Medicine'' doesn''t necessarily have to be Cataclysmic Material; it can also be a Path power."


    "That is to say, you can replace one medicinal ingredient with the Cataclysmic Power of a ''Cataclysmic'' and concoct a potion that contains the power related to the Path of that Cataclysmic."


    Then, Shen Lingshuang further explained the special Cataclysmic Potion to Qiu Tu in detail.


    To put it in layman''s terms:


    Formulating a Cataclysmic Potion normally requires four types of medicinal ingredients and materials according to the ''Star, Moon, King, and Minister.'' ''Star Medicine'' and ''Moon Medicine'' are Cataclysmic Materials containing Catastrophe Power.


    While ''King Medicine'' and ''Assistant Medicine'' are ordinary medicinal ingredients, serving to harmonize and add effects.


    Later, some pharmacists found Cataclysmic Materials too difficult to procure, so they only added ''Star Medicine'', and directly replaced the ''Moon Medicine'' with the power of a Cataclysmic.


    This created a special Cataclysmic Potion unique to a certain Path.


    After understanding the formulation method for this special type of Cataclysmic Potion, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "Then can you tell which Path''s Cataclysmic Potion is concocted from this formula?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head slightly and slowly said, "It''s hard to say... but most likely, it''s a potion of the ''Mystery'' or ''Immortality'' Path."


    "After all, the entire formula gives off a dark, twisted feeling."


    ''Mystery??'' Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a jolt, and couldn''t help but recall the Cataclysmic Potion ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he had obtained yesterday.


    He remembered the description on that potion bottle being: A Cataclysmic Potion made from Cataclysm Materials including mandrake flower, Succubus of Water by a Cataclysmic from the "Mystery" Path.


    He had noticed this description at the time, but didn''t understand what it meant. Now it seemed... That potion might also be a special Cataclysmic Potion?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly had a startling suspicion: Could it be that the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he received had actually come from that man in the suit with the mask?


    After all... the ''Salvage Game'' introduction stated that all Cataclysmic Props were salvaged from one''s own region.


    That is to say, only if Xinjie City housed this Cataclysmic Potion would he have been likely to obtain it.


    And although Xinjie City is not small, there are not many Cataclysmics, plus the masked man was concocting potions related to the "Mystery" Path, so his speculation might very well be true!


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was analyzing, Shen Lingshuang also finished carefully studying the entire formula, and said with some uncertainty, "Although I''ve never seen this potion..."


    "Based on the analysis of the ingredients, it is likely a Cataclysmic Potion related to disguising, concealing, and transforming."


    "For example, ''Impersonator Potion,'' ''Albino Phantom Potion,'' ''Reverse Transformation Potion'' and alike..."


    ''Disguise, transformation?''


    ''Mandragora Love Drug...?''


    ''"God"?''


    After combining these pieces of information, inexplicably, Qiu Tu felt that somewhat adult and sinister scenes and images seemed to emerge.


    ''Could it be that something major is going to happen in Xinjie City?''


    Upon pondering quietly for a while, Qiu Tu temporarily suppressed these thoughts and finished breakfast with Shen Lingshuang.


    After eating, Qiu Tu reminded Shen Lingshuang not to wander off in the next few days, then left for work...


    Today was the last workday of the week. Tomorrow was the weekend, the day Qiu Tu and Chief Huang had arranged to go to ''Emerald Fort'' to attend the horse racing meeting. There were only eight days left until the deadline for the Yin Caimei case.


    Stepping out onto Old Alley Street and getting into his car, Qiu Tu did not start driving immediately but continued to check the rewards for last night''s second ''Loyalty Game.''


    Turning off "Fighting Game," Qiu Tu opened "Salvage Game."


    With his click, a pixelated figure of Ah-Tai popped up before Qiu Tu.


    Compared to Eagle, who looked nearly exhausted from a night of salvaging, the pixelated figure of Ah-Tai appeared to be in much better condition, simply sitting on the ground and yawning.


    Qiu Tu observed the screen closely and soon spotted a small jade seal in the image.


    Qiu Tu mentally clicked on the jade seal, and the next second, a prompt popped up before him,


    [Acquired Cataclysmic Treasure: Seal of Ownership]


    ''Seal of Ownership?''


    ''What is that?''


    Qiu Tu tried to check the description of this Cataclysmic treasure.


    ''Cataclysmic Treasure: Seal of Ownership''


    ''Treasure Introduction: A Cataclysmic treasure made from an unknown material. As long as you stamp the seal on an item or a creature, you will have ownership of it for 72 hours.''


    ''Within 72 hours, if you want to retrieve IT, IT will cross space and appear before you.''


    ''Note: Acquiring items or creatures will consume a certain "cost." The amount of the "cost" is determined by various factors such as the volume, mass, rank of the item or creature, and the distance between it and the user.''


    Having read the introduction to this Cataclysmic treasure, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up slightly.


    As expected... there is no such thing as a weak Cataclysmic treasure.


    With such a magical treasure, Qiu Tu, after a little thought, came up with many ways to use it.


    Whether it was for transporting items, stealing goods, or launching surprise attacks on hostile organizations, or sneaking multiple people into certain secret places, it would be highly effective!


    The only problem was that he was unclear about the extent of the "cost" of using it.


    If it was small, Qiu Tu felt it was bearable; but if it was too much, then he would have to reduce the frequency of use...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu packed away the Cataclysmic treasure and drove toward the Investigation Bureau...


    [8 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    ....


    Upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu, holding the materials he had obtained from Tian Xiaotian the night before, took the elevator to the 9th floor.


    Once he reached the office of the 9th-floor investigation team, all of his subordinates were there.


    Even Cao Dabiao and the seven or eight investigators that Qiu Tu had sent out had returned.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, everyone greeted him in succession.


    Cao Dabiao, the most astute among them, saw that Qiu Tu was holding something and quickly stepped forward with a sly smile, "Chief, let me help you with that."


    Qiu Tu did not refuse his kindness and casually handed Tian Xiaotian''s backpack to him, then inquired, "Why have you come back? Any progress on the case I gave you to investigate?"


    Cao Dabiao took over the backpack, smiled humbly, and said, "Chief, it''s all thanks to your good fortune. We''ve been finding people and connections these past two days, and finally found the brother-in-law of the driver for Vice President Tian..."


    "Then, after arranging a few meetings and beating around the bush, we finally brought the driver out yesterday."


    "Afterward, we got him pretty drunk and managed to extract Vice President Tian''s itinerary for the next few days from him!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu looked at him in surprise and then praised, "Not bad, Big Biao. You really have some skills."


    "In such a short time, you''ve got chummy with Vice President Tian''s driver and obtained internal information."


    At this, Qiu Tu gave Cao Dabiao a heavy pat on the shoulder, "I really didn''t misjudge you!"


    "You''ve done a great job!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, a rare expression of self-satisfaction appeared on Cao Dabiao''s face.


    Clearly, he too thought that completing Qiu Tu''s task in such a short time was quite an achievement.


    As they spoke, the two reached Qiu Tu''s desk. Cao Dabiao helped Qiu Tu place the backpack on the desk and, out of curiosity, casually asked, "Chief, what''s in this bag? It''s quite heavy."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Nothing much, just the record of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itinerary and gift-giving list for this year."


    Cao Dabiao: ???


    Cao Dabiao almost thought he had misheard.


    He was stunned for a second, then asked, "What? The records of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itinerary and gift-giving list for a whole year?"


    Qiu Tu simply nodded, then he unzipped the backpack, took out the materials, and handed them to Cao Dabiao.


    "Flip through it backwards and find Vice President Tian''s itinerary for the past few days, see if it matches the account of the driver you know."


    "If it all matches up, that means the driver didn''t deceive you, and that line must be well maintained." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We might very likely get more hidden information from him!"


    Cao Dabiao uttered a couple of "ohs," but he hadn''t really taken it in: because at that moment, he had already been dumbfounded by the "heavy bomb" dropped by Qiu Tu.


    Now, he had only one thought in his mind: What kind of a god was his chief?!


    It took him and seven or eight people working painstakingly for two days just to get a handle on one of Vice President Tian''s drivers, securing a three-day itinerary.


    But his chief... his chief had just managed to bring over the entire year''s itinerary of Vice President Tian?


    Compared to him, their efforts seemed utterly useless!


    Thinking this, he glanced over at the other investigators in the office.


    As expected, while those who had stayed in the office these past two days seemed unaffected, the seven or eight investigators who had gone out with him to look for leads were all stunned.


    Clearly... from the moment Qiu Tu entered, they had been paying attention to the conversation between the two, and now they were as shocked as Cao Dabiao...


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +5]


    [Ding Xiaoqi Loyalty +3]


    [Li Liang Loyalty +3]


    [....]


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, while pretending to sort out the materials, had the corners of his mouth slightly curled up in a smile at the string of Loyalty alerts appearing before his eyes.


    It was necessary to praise subordinates appropriately, but also to give them a shock from time to time.


    Everybody has the ''admiration for the strong'' mentality, so you have to make them realize the gap between you and them, only then will they willingly follow you...


    Just as Qiu Tu was habitually boosting loyalty, the door to the temporary office was suddenly pushed open from the outside.


    An investigator walked in, saluted Qiu Tu, and then said politely, "Chief Qiu, the minister has asked to see you."


    "He says he wants to discuss a case with you."


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned. Discuss a case with him? What case? The case of Yin Caimei''s death?


    And just as Qiu Tu was pondering, the long-inactive [Crisis Countdown] began to change slowly...


    -----

 Chapter 95 Have Yan Chen and Jia Shu Fallen Out? (7k)

    Seeing the change in the countdown hourglass, Qiu Tu''s mind was suddenly filled with several question marks.He couldn''t understand why just being summoned by Jia Shu had triggered his "Crisis Intuition."


    Could it be... Jia Shu was plotting something against him in the office?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look at the series of "Crisis Warnings" that had popped up in front of him, trying to see what kind of crisis he was actually facing.


    But with just one glance, Qiu Tu was baffled.


    Because the content of the crisis warning was completely different from what he had imagined and even surprised him.


    Thinking this, he quickly skimmed through all the "Crisis Warnings," his eyes revealing a hint of deep thought.


    And as he finished reading the warnings, a 20-minute countdown hourglass also popped up, landing in the upper left corner of his vision.


    [19:56]


    At this time, the investigator standing at the door, seeing that Qiu Tu had not responded to him, couldn''t help but urge, "Chief Qiu, the Director is still waiting for you."


    Hearing his words, Qiu Tu came back to his senses, then he looked at the investigator deeply before saying with a smile, "Alright, I''ll be there soon."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu handed the documents he was holding to Cao Dabiao, called over several investigators, and then arranged, "Go get a photocopier and several boxes of paper, and make three copies of all these documents."


    "Then one set should be categorized by location, one set by personnel, and another set in chronological order."


    "When I come back, we''ll analyze these documents together."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu glanced at Cao Dabiao and instructed, "Big Biao, you be in charge of this."


    Then he looked at Liu Fuping and Chen Feng, "Sister Liu, Chen Feng, you two assist."


    "Yes!" The three of them took their orders.


    Qiu Tu''s work arrangement was a normal procedure, so the investigator didn''t say anything, just waiting patiently at the door.


    Soon, the work arrangement was done, and Qiu Tu also stepped toward the door, leaving the temporary office together with the investigator.


    [18:27]


    Led by the investigator, the two quickly arrived at the door of Jia Shu''s office.


    Arriving at the office door, Qiu Tu did not enter immediately but instead straightened his clothes while asking the investigator beside him, "I don''t seem to have seen you in the Political Department before? Are you new here?"


    The investigator had a somewhat aloof personality and merely hummed in response.


    Qiu Tu asked, "What is your name?"


    The investigator said, "Ji Chen."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then knocked on the door.


    Jia Shu''s voice came from inside the office, "Come in."


    Hearing that voice, Qiu Tu, with a full smile on his face, pushed open the door and stepped inside.


    [18:01]


    As he walked into Jia Shu''s office, the light suddenly dimmed, and Qiu Tu''s eyes widened slightly as his vision seemed a bit unclear.


    Only after his eyes adjusted to the office lighting did he notice someone sitting in the large boss chair, their back to him.


    That towering, solid, black leather chair resembled a tall tombstone standing in the middle of the office.


    And Jia Shu was standing respectfully beside that "tombstone."


    In the whole of Xinjie City, there was only one person who could sit in Jia Shu''s place and command such respectful attitudes from Jia Shu...


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu speculated, the chair slowly turned, and one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen, appeared before Qiu Tu...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly pretended to be surprised and saluted, "Hello, Bureau Chief!"


    After saluting, as if he had just remembered that this was Jia Shu''s office, he quickly saluted Jia Shu, standing aside, "Director!"


    After exchanging greetings, Yan Chen said nothing but just looked at Qiu Tu silently, his gaze as deep as a bottomless spring¡­


    While Yan Chen was looking at Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu was also quietly scrutinizing Yan Chen.


    After all, this was not Yan Chen''s own study or office: the curtains were not very opaque, and Jia Shu''s desk lamp was of good quality, so... this was the first time Qiu Tu got a clear look at Yan Chen''s face.


    How to describe it... he was rather unremarkable in appearance and seemed somewhat aged and decayed.


    Qiu Tu remembered that the official introduction stated Yan Chen was 51 years old, but... looking at him, Qiu Tu would put him past 65, he even seemed to have an old man''s flavor. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu recalled Qin Shuman''s previous hypothesis about Yan Chen''s Cataclysm Path: Life, Immortality.


    Frankly, Qiu Tu couldn''t see any signs of "Immortality" in Yan Chen.


    If it weren''t for Qin Shuman''s information usually being reliable, Qiu Tu might even think Yan Chen was nearly devoid of "life."


    [17:36]


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was analyzing Yan Chen''s appearance and Cataclysm Path, Yan Chen slowly spoke.


    His voice was low and hoarse, like nails scratching on a chalkboard, "Qiu Tu, I heard you took the Yin Caimei case?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu wore a smile, looking straight ahead, as if the presence of Qiu Tu had nothing to do with him and this case wasn''t assigned by him at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded without denying, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    [17:30]


    Yan Chen "hmmed" and then slowly said, "How is your investigation going lately?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu again.


    Jia Shu still had no reaction.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Thanks to the Bureau Chief''s good luck, our investigative team has been working overtime the past few days, and we''re almost close to cracking the case."


    Upon Qiu Tu''s words, the whole office fell quiet for a moment. Yan Chen gave Jia Shu an expressionless glance, then asked in a grave tone, "Oh? That soon to crack the case? Tell me about it."


    [17:13]


    ```


    Hearing Yan Chen''s question and looking at the eerie scene before him, Qiu Tu''s thoughts couldn''t help but drift a little...


    Actually... Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised about what happened in Jia Shu''s office with Yan Chen.


    Even... when Yan Chen asked him these questions, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised either.


    Because, after "Crisis Intuition" was triggered, the "Crisis Warning" had already made him anticipate everything that was happening now...


    "Crisis Intuition activated! Generating crisis report!"


    "Your immediate superior, the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, Yan Chen, is experiencing a conflict with your superior, Head of the Political Department Jia Shu!"


    "The cause is that Jia Shu actually handed over ''the Yin Caimei case'' to you without informing him!"


    "Feeling his authority was challenged, he''s not only dissatisfied with Jia Shu but also developed a profound distrust towards you!"


    "Now, under the pretense of Jia Shu''s directive, he has invited you to Jia Shu''s office to report on the case!"


    "You have 20 minutes to decide which case investigation results and so-called ''truth'' you will report. This will determine your image and position in the eyes of Yan Chen and Jia Shu!"


    "Please choose carefully, as it will affect your situation going forward!"


    Indeed, just when an investigator came on behalf of Jia Shu to get Qiu Tu, these prompts popped up before him.


    At that moment, it nearly caused Qiu Tu''s brain to crash.


    ''What''s going on? Wasn''t this case assigned to me by Yan Chen? Or was it actually given to me by Jia Shu without Yan Chen''s knowledge?''


    ''No? Is this guy sick or what?''


    ''Why dump such a difficult case on me for no reason!?''


    ''And moreover... because of this case, a rift formed between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, and as a result... Yan Chen only has a bit of dissatisfaction with Jia Shu but has developed a tremendous distrust toward me?''


    ''Is Yan Chen also out of his mind?!''


    ''What, am I the one getting hurt in every way here?''


    ''In the end, am I just a pawn in your play?''


    That''s why Qiu Tu stood there stunned at the time, feeling utterly overwhelmed.


    Fortunately, the investigator called him again, snapping Qiu Tu back to reality and reminding him that what he needed to do now was not to complain but to quickly analyze the hints given by "Crisis Intuition."


    You should know that "Crisis Intuition" is only triggered when Qiu Tu''s life is threatened.


    So, this proved that if Qiu Tu couldn''t get through this crisis, it''s highly likely that he could be in mortal danger.


    And what made Qiu Tu feel even more screwed was that this "Crisis Warning" didn''t specify where the danger was coming from.


    He only knew that a discord had arisen between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, and then he was being called to the office.


    But... who will be detrimental to him in the future?


    Is it because he concealed the investigative facts, making Yan Chen unsatisfied, hence planning to eliminate him?


    Or did he reveal the truth of the investigation, unsettling Jia Shu, who''s now planning to secretly get rid of him?


    So many possibilities left Qiu Tu quite indecisive.


    So, he arranged work for Cao Dabiao and others on the spot after recovering, which was actually a pretext to contemplate his strategies in silence.


    And thankfully, with the hints from "Crisis Intuition" and those few minutes of thinking, Qiu Tu finally figured out the key to this crisis.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu also reined in his thoughts, then firmly addressed Yan Chen''s scrutinizing gaze, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    [17:10]


    He said, "Actually, when I learned of this case, I felt something was off about it."


    "Because that night, I was overseeing the interrogation team interrogating Yin Caimei."


    "Yin Caimei seemed to have no psychological issues, nor any diseases. And the interrogation by the team was quite standard, with no use of illegal tools or potions."


    "Theoretically, she shouldn''t have had any problems."


    "So, when I heard she was dead, my first suspicion was: homicide!"


    "That''s why I had the coroner conduct a physical autopsy and examination on Yin Caimei."


    "The result came back as death due to sudden cardiac arrest, purely an accidental death."


    "This result didn''t alleviate my suspicions; instead, it intensified them."


    "So, I asked the Director for permission to use a catastrophe investigation Treasure to try and detect traces of Catastrophe Power or a Catastrophe Curse being used."


    "And indeed, I found something."


    Qiu Tu said, "Last night, I detected traces of a Catastrophe Curse on Yin Caimei''s body using the ''Mist Index Book.'' I then followed the clues and found the murder weapon."


    [16:32]


    At this point, Qiu Tu clearly noticed an interested look in Yan Chen''s eyes.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised.


    Yan Chen''s previous coldness was probably because he thought it was impossible for Qiu Tu to make any significant progress in just two days.


    Speaking of progress in front of him and even claiming to have identified the murderer, he likely thought Qiu Tu was simply following Jia Shu''s lead to pin the crime on a scapegoat.


    But now, without following Jia Shu''s narrative, Qiu Tu was actually presenting something solid, so Yan Chen became intrigued.


    While Qiu Tu was mulling this over, Yan Chen questioningly, yet without joy or sorrow, asked, "Oh? The murder weapon? What murder weapon?"


    Qiu Tu said, "A book. A book that Yin Caimei brought into the guardroom against regulations, named ''Brave New World''!"


    He paused, then added, "After examination with the ''Mist Index Book,'' the book has been confirmed to be a Catastrophic Treasure, with the Catastrophe Power being of the same origin as the traces found on Yin Caimei''s body."


    "It''s precisely because of this murder weapon that I''ve greatly narrowed down the range of suspects, and even have a primary suspect in mind."


    [15:21]


    Hearing this, Yan Chen asked with an impassive expression, "So, who do you suspect now?"


    ```

 Chapter 96 Three Consecutive Countdowns? (7k)

    When Yan Chen asked this question, Qiu Tu felt a stir in his heart, knowing that the most crucial step had come.He stealthily glanced at Jia Shu from the corner of his eye.


    Perhaps Jia Shu had not expected Qiu Tu to have actually uncovered so many clues, or perhaps he had not expected Qiu Tu to dare defy the covert signals he had given earlier and seriously investigate the case. Finally, Jia Shu was no longer composed and untroubled as before but was looking at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Feeling the gaze of the two powerful figures on him, Qiu Tu did not feel much pressure.


    The reason he dared to disclose so many clues and developments was because he had already thought of a plan to cope with this crisis¡ª


    So, looking at Yan Chen, he took a deep breath and suddenly pointed at Jia Shu, "Bureau Chief, I suspect it was Minister Jia who made the move!"


    [14:58]


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the entire office fell silent in an instant.


    Let alone Yan Chen, even Jia Shu, who had been maintaining a forced smile, showed a trace of astonishment on his face.


    He probably had really not expected that after all Qiu Tu had said and all the evidence he had presented, the suspicion would fall on himself:


    The problem was... the clues Qiu Tu had just mentioned hadn''t pointed to him, had they?


    This is ridiculous!


    But then remembering that Qiu Tu was not one to make baseless assertions, Jia Shu couldn''t help but race through his thoughts, pondering Qiu Tu''s intentions...


    And while Jia Shu was deep in thought, Yan Chen''s brow also furrowed significantly, his gaze fluctuating: he was clearly also considering why Qiu Tu would accuse Jia Shu.


    During this time, Qiu Tu had already left a very deep impression on him.


    So, he also did not believe that Qiu Tu genuinely thought Jia Shu was the murderer, and to point it out in front of Jia Shu himself...


    At this moment, seeing both powerful figures lost in thought, Qiu Tu also held his breath, staring straight ahead without speaking.


    He was waiting, waiting for the feedback from "Loyalty Game" and "Crisis Intuition."


    Time passed by, each second stretching into an eternity.


    Finally... two seconds later, two prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu,


    [Yan Chen''s suspicion -3, satisfaction +4]


    [Jia Shu''s satisfaction +12]


    Qiu Tu took a furtive glance at the two of them.


    Yan Chen had returned to his previous unfathomable composure, while the forced smile on Jia Shu''s face was replaced by a radiant genuine smile.


    What was more important was that the [Countdown Hourglass] in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s field of vision had stopped after jumping to [14:28], no longer ticking down.


    Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief in his heart, knowing his gamble had paid off.


    In fact, while he was tasking Cao Dabiao and the others, Qiu Tu had been pondering something.


    Could the reason why "Crisis Intuition" had not indicated the source of the crisis mean that the crisis came from both Yan Chen and Jia Shu?


    That is to say, no matter which side he chose, he could potentially become the target of resentment from the other side, thus becoming incredibly dangerous?


    Upon analyzing the situation to this point, Qiu Tu suddenly had an even bolder guess, which was... no matter which side he chose, it was not about offending one person, but two!


    You see, Jia Shu was not just Yan Chen''s right-hand man but also one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, with voting rights at the Bureau''s senior meetings.


    Further considering that he controlled the powerful Political Department of the Investigation Bureau, even if Yan Chen felt dissatisfied with him, would he really give up on Jia Shu over such a trivial matter?


    Qiu Tu felt he would not.


    Qiu Tu also had subordinates, so he put himself in their shoes. If Cao Dabiao or Chen Feng did something against his wishes, would he immediately give up on them?


    No. At most, Qiu Tu would sternly rebuke and warn them both, then continue to observe.


    After all, cultivating a subordinate with good skills, loyalty, and position is not a simple matter.


    Having thought all of this through, Qiu Tu finally understood his predicament.


    Plainly speaking, his first reaction after seeing the "Crisis Warning" was not wrong: he was a pawn being played by both Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    So, choosing either side was incorrect. Only by standing with both of them, satisfying them both, could he survive this crisis.


    With this realization, Qiu Tu quickly analyzed the "demands" of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Yan Chen''s were simple. He was clearly angry and dissatisfied with Jia Shu''s loss of control. Therefore, Qiu Tu had to agree with him and not let him continue to feel things were slipping out of control.


    Adding the several increases in "satisfaction" from Yan Chen and the hints from "Crisis Intuition," Qiu Tu knew that Yan Chen must have begun to trust him again, considering him a confidant.


    Therefore, to satisfy Yan Chen, Qiu Tu had to cut ties with Jia Shu, remaining unwaveringly on Yan Chen''s side. He had to use "concrete actions" to tell Yan Chen: Jia Shu, that villain, deceived and manipulated others, but he did not fool me! I am still working as per your intentions, Bureau Chief.


    As for Jia Shu''s "demands," after analyzing them for a long time on the road, Qiu Tu also found an answer.


    The reason Jia Shu was risking Yan Chen''s displeasure to calm down this case was 100% because of Vice President Tian.


    As to whether he had some private relationship with Vice President Tian or because of the communication surveillance system "donated" that covered the entire city, with too little information, Qiu Tu was not clear at the moment.


    But whatever the reason, what he valued most now was that this case could not be related to Vice President Tian!


    As long as this condition was met, with his personality, everything else probably didn''t matter.


    So, having guessed the demands of both parties, Qiu Tu''s answer to dealing with this crisis emerged:


    He could not be perfunctory, could not find a scapegoat, he had to honestly report the truth he found¡ªbut this truth could not involve Vice President Tian.


    Not involving Vice President Tian also meant that the Qin Family and Shun Yun Communications couldn''t be mentioned.


    After all, once mentioned, given Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s cunning and ability to take advantage of the situation, they could guess the role Vice President Tian played. It would still affect Vice President Tian and anger Jia Shu.


    So... after thinking it over, Qiu Tu simply threw the blame on Jia Shu.


    This was a hint that killed two birds with one stone: it told Yan Chen that Qiu Tu had no relationship with Jia Shu whatsoever, even daring to challenge his authority to his face; it also told Jia Shu that Qiu Tu had indeed found out about Vice President Tian but had followed his orders and not reported it.


    Qiu Tu admitted that his method of resolving the situation indeed involved gambling. But... he only had a brief 2 minutes from receiving the orders to meeting Yan Chen, and he had no time to think of a more perfect solution.


    Fortunately, the plan worked....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was recalling his whole strategic thought process for the plan, Yan Chen also "hehe" laughed a couple of times.


    He might have smoked too much; his laugh was very hoarse and raspy, like an ominous night owl.


    "Qiu Tu, your speculation is quite interesting,"


    As he said this, he glanced at Jia Shu with interest. The chilly atmosphere that had permeated when he first entered the office seemed to have dissipated quite a bit, replaced by a more lively one.


    His hoarse voice asked, "Minister Jia, what do you think about your subordinate''s speculation?"


    Clearly, he was using Qiu''s conjecture to take a dig at Jia Shu.


    But at this moment, Jia Shu didn''t seem to care at all. The fact that Vice President Tian had not been exposed already proved that Qiu Tu was "on his side."


    Thus, with a radiant smile, he leaned slightly toward Yan Chen and said, "Bureau Chief, I think Agent Qiu is just joking."


    Yan Chen turned to Qiu Tu and uttered an "Oh?" before asking, "Is that so?"


    Of course, Qiu Tu had to firmly stand with Yan Chen at this point.


    So he quickly shook his head, "Bureau Chief, I am not joking."


    He said, "Minister Jia is indeed at the top of my list of suspects."


    "For three main reasons,"


    "1. The murder weapon, the book-like cataclysmic treasure, was specially approved by Minister Jia for the deceased to bring into the guard room."


    "2. Last night, when I was using the ''Mist Index Book'' for the investigation, my boss, the head of the Interrogation Section, Zheng Tao, deliberately came to the morgue."


    "But the only person who knew I would go to the morgue last night to investigate was Minister Jia. I suspect Zheng Tao was sent by Minister Jia to gather information."


    "3. And the most important..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu looked deeply at Jia Shu and said in a subdued voice, "When Minister Jia handed the case over to me, he hinted several times that I should find a scapegoat to muddle through this case."


    [Yan Chen Satisfaction +5]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen actually burst into hearty laughter. He seemed utterly pleased, as if he had regained control of the situation and was reveling in his victory.


    And more importantly... Qiu Tu had been covertly observing Jia Shu''s expression.


    There was not a hint of murderous intent or malice in Jia Shu''s eyes, only a dense "interest" that seemed almost tangible...


    Clearly... for Jia Shu, as long as Qiu Tu did not drag Vice President Tian into the matter, he did not care how much dirt was splashed on him.


    After all, Yan Chen wouldn''t really believe it...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu felt even more at ease.


    [Jia Shu Satisfaction +3]


    At that moment, after laughing twice, Yan Chen also withdrew his smile. He reverted to the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau who was powerful and impassive.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and criticized softly, "Qiu Tu, I recognize your investigative abilities. But... your thinking is completely wrong!"


    "This time, I will forgive you on behalf of Minister Jia. But there won''t be a next time!"


    He paused and then said, with a hint of indirect scolding, "At any time, you must not question or oppose your superior!"


    "It would throw the entire Investigation Bureau into chaos!"


    Listening to Yan Chen''s stern but actually... rather feeble criticism, Qiu Tu also knew it was time to steer the conversation back. So he obediently bowed his head and replied, "Yes, Bureau Chief. It''s my lack of experience that led me astray."


    Yan Chen nodded with satisfaction, then said, "Good. It''s great that you have this understanding."


    He spoke with a deep look in his eyes, "I originally thought that with your abilities, handling this case might be too difficult, so I was prepared to have someone else take over."


    "But now seeing that you have already done a pretty good job, I''ll leave this case in your hands."


    "However, the Municipal Committee is watching this case closely, so you need to solve it quickly and close it!"


    After speaking, he pondered for a moment and gave a deadline, "By next Wednesday at the latest, I want to see results!"


    As Yan Chen spoke, the first countdown hourglass on the top left corner of Qiu Tu''s vision slowly turned into a little treasure chest. Then... a second countdown hourglass gradually appeared.


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu and saw that Jia was giving him a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Then he looked at Yan Chen, who had a stern expression.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    At that moment, Qiu Tu really felt like a million alpacas were thundering through his heart!


    Fuck, why are you torturing me, a small fry, with this love-hate drama between you two?!


    Wasn''t once enough, and now you want a second round?


    I was able to satisfy both of your demands this time by exploiting the information gap, but how am I supposed to meet both of your requirements next time?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu was inclined to refuse. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But before he could say anything, in the next second, a countdown hourglass quickly moved next to the two in front.


    Simultaneously, the third countdown hourglass''s hint also popped up:


    [With your brilliant performance, Yan Chen has regained his trust in you.]


    [And with your "help", he has also successfully intimidated Jia Shu and reclaimed the feeling of having great power in his grasp.]


    [So, don''t oppose him or anger him when he is happiest.]


    [You wouldn''t want to find out what he would do to you in a towering rage...]


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Fine, fine, fine. This is how you want to play it?


    Then don''t blame me!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then looked at Yan Chen, saying seriously, "Chief, I believe I can complete the task!"


    "But... the time is a bit tight, so I request authorization to use special measures without restriction!"


    ------

 Chapter 97 Two Major Gains After the Crisis

    Hearing his words, Yan Chen''s gaze suddenly sharpened.He did not express his stance immediately, but fell silent for two seconds before asking, "What unconventional measures do you wish to utilize?"


    Standing upright, Qiu Tu spoke earnestly, "Including but not limited to compulsory searches, arrests before investigation, torture during interrogation, the privilege to mobilize 2-3 squads of the Special Service Department''s teams, and the Special Arrest Warrant for arbitrarily detaining officials below the Bureau Chief level without liability!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the office fell into silence once again....


    Were Qiu Tu''s demands high?


    Actually, not really. Since the Political Department itself functions as secret police, it inherently has the powers to compel searches, make arrests before investigation, and even resort to torture during interrogation.


    But.... if you add the privilege of mobilizing Special Task Squads and the Special Arrest Warrant for arbitrarily detaining officials below the Bureau Chief level, it starts to become intimidating.


    How many senior officials at the Bureau Chief level and above are there among Xinjie City''s three major power institutions?


    Just dozens.


    This would mean that, apart from these few dozen people, Qiu Tu could do as he pleases in Xinjie City for the next five days, capturing and interrogating anyone he wanted!


    Moreover, without any liability!


    After all... Qiu Tu had also requested "immunity" from liability.


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen couldn''t help but hesitate. He instinctively glanced at Jia Shu, wanting to gauge his opinion.


    However, just as his eyes were moving in that direction, he restrained himself.


    That''s because he suddenly remembered some of Jia Shu''s recent deceitful acts and secretive doings....


    Thus, his expression darkened slightly as he scrutinized Qiu Tu carefully.


    There''s one very important aspect of being a boss: that is, you must maintain the balance of power among your subordinates, ensuring that no single subordinate becomes too powerful.


    Because, once a subordinate gains too much power, along with a group of confidants and allies, it''s quite possible they could undermine their superior, rendering the superior a mere figurehead, with decrees that hold no power beyond their office.


    This is even riskier in the case of someone like Jia Shu, who is only one position below Yan Chen and holds significant sway over personnel decisions in the Sanctuary. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Also considering the worrisome trends Jia Shu had exhibited lately, Yan Chen, after some hesitation, suddenly thought: maybe... using Qiu Tu to divide some of Jia Shu''s power, to warn and contain Jia Shu, wouldn''t be a bad idea?


    After all, Qiu Tu was just a Deputy Staff, whose position and power could be decided with a word from him, without any fear of losing control.


    Moreover, a Deputy Staff asking for such extensive authority would have to depend on him to actualize that power, which would make it easier to control.


    Additionally, given the case has a deadline, the authority would last for no more than five days, making it less risky....


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen slowly came to a decision.


    He looked up at Qiu Tu and said indifferently, "Agreed."


    "I will sign the Authorization Letter and the Special Arrest Warrant for you in a moment."


    "With the Authorization Letter and Special Arrest Warrant, you can arrest mid-level officials below the Bureau Chief at will within five days, interrogate them prior to their arrests, and use torture if necessary."


    "As long as you solve the case within five days, I won''t mind however excessive your actions are."


    At this point, he paused and took the opportunity to admonish Qiu Tu, "But Qiu Tu, I still have to remind you. You only have five days. If the murderer isn''t found once five days are up, then... don''t blame me for disregarding the camaraderie between us."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu snapped his legs together and saluted, "Yes, Chief!"


    Seeing this, Yan Chen waved his hand towards Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "You may leave."


    "Yes, Bureau Chief." Qiu Tu replied and then turned and left Jia Shu''s office.


    After Qiu Tu departed, silence slowly descended in Jia Shu''s office; neither Jia Shu nor Yan Chen spoke.


    Yan Chen sat quietly in the walnut wood office chair, as if he were the true master of the Political Department, while Jia Shu stood to one side, expressionless....


    After a long moment, Yan Chen propped himself up from the black walnut wood desk and slowly stood. He patted Jia Shu''s shoulder lightly, then left without a word.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu followed behind and saw Yan Chen out of the office. Only after watching the receding figures of Yan Chen and Ji Chen disappear at the end of the hallway did Jia Shu''s gaze flicker, and he returned to his own office.


    Back in his office, Jia Shu''s complexion gradually turned from rosy to ashen, his eyes bloodshot, and his expression began to twist into something quite ferocious.


    His tongue elongated as he licked his lips, eyes filled with perverted desire, "What a tempting fruit...."


    "To dare walk a tightrope in front of me and the Bureau Chief, playing with the gap in information."


    "Interesting, very interesting."


    "I really can''t wait for the fruit to ripen...."


    While speaking, his breathing became noticeably heavier....


    ....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having left Jia Shu''s office, was also sorting through the achievements of the day.


    Just now, due to the love-hate relationship between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, Qiu Tu had triggered three [Crisis Countdowns].


    The first and third countdowns were short-term crises, and he had already dealt with them.


    Only the second countdown was a bit special.


    Qiu Tu clicked on his thoughts, and the Crisis Warning that had just appeared popped up before him again,


    "Your immediate superior, Yan Chen, has updated new directives for you regarding the ''Yin Caimei'' case, demanding you to clarify the case within five days."


    "His forceful intervention is likely to agitate many people and powers."


    "Clarify the case within the allotted time and ensure your safety, for the danger may just come from the shadows...."

 Chapter 97 Two Major Gains After the Crisis_2

    When Qiu Tu first saw the hint, his initial reaction was actually to suspect Jia Shu.After all... based on what he knew about Jia Shu, when he found out that this case was very likely to involve Vice President Tian, Jia Shu would definitely not hesitate to make a move against him.


    But after giving it some thought, Qiu Tu felt... in reality, Jia Shu didn''t need to personally take action against him. He could just leak a message, and there would be many forces wanting to strike at him.


    So... perhaps that was what the hint "the danger may come from within the darkness" was all about.


    And this also meant that in the following days, he would have to be extra careful about his own safety.


    Perhaps, at any moment, he might encounter a kidnapping, attack, or even assassination!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu adjusted his mood and then looked towards the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    Having experienced three crises just now, there were now a total of four hourglasses and treasure chests lined up in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s view.


    The first one was the Crisis Countdown he had triggered a few days ago when he took on "The Yin Caimei Case" from Jia Shu. There were 7 and a half days left.


    The second was the Crisis Countdown for "the danger within the darkness" he had just encountered, with 5 days remaining.


    The third and fourth were the treasure chests he had obtained in the office.


    Without hesitation, Qiu Tu tried clicking on these two treasure chests.


    The next second, several prompts popped up before him,


    "Survived the crisis, treasure chest reward obtained: Behemoth Ashes."


    "Behemoth Ashes: A common Cataclysmic Material, the remnants left in this world after the death of a cataclysmic behemoth, capable of enhancing an item''s spirituality and infusing Catastrophe Power."


    "Just a certain level of forging skill is required to forge treasures like ''The Thinking Sculpture''."


    "Survived the crisis, treasure chest reward obtained: Lucky Joker Card"


    "Cataclysmic Treasure: Lucky Joker Card"


    "Treasure introduction: This is a deck composed of 21 cards, including 19 Aces and 2 Joker Cards."


    "Every day you can draw a card at random. If you draw an Ace, you''ll receive a ''Luck Guidance''."


    "But if you draw one of the Joker Cards, then you must kill someone at random or commit suicide."


    After checking the rewards from these two treasure chests, Qiu Tu''s eyes couldn''t help but light up a bit, feeling like the dangers he had just faced were worth it.


    For the first item, "Behemoth Ashes":


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, he had recently acquired a piece of Cataclysmic Material called "Memory Clay."


    In its introduction, there was a line that it could be used to forge treasures such as "The Thinking Sculpture," "Reverberation Echo Pot," "Starry Beyond Letter," and "Eye of Future Foresight."


    So, if Qiu Tu was not mistaken, he could potentially forge a Cataclysmic Treasure called "The Thinking Sculpture" with "Behemoth Ashes" and "Memory Clay."


    Though unclear of the precise function of this Cataclysmic Treasure, for Qiu Tu who was still in the initial stages of accumulation: any Cataclysmic Treasure would be a gain.


    At worst, it would just add to his "arsenal." One day it would come in handy.


    As for the second Cataclysmic Treasure, it was an even more unexpected joy.


    Qiu Tu had opened many Crisis Treasure Boxes, most of which contained materials, with only one being a Cataclysmic Treasure. This was the second time, and clearly, this treasure had a more significant effect.


    A daily "Luck Guidance" could either act as an "Adventure Creator" or help him with "Assistive Selection," both of which were very useful.


    So, just by seeing this Cataclysmic Treasure, Qiu Tu decided to list it as a commonly used tool.


    After checking the two major gains from this crisis, Qiu Tu closed the two treasure chests, satisfied, planning to take them out and test them when there was nobody around.


    As for now... it was better to first ponder over the actual case:


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    Two Crisis Countdowns related to "The Yin Caimei Case" were laid out before him, reminding him once more of the complexity of the case at hand.


    He had to figure out a way to thoroughly investigate the case, uncover the real perpetrator, and clarify the demands of the involved parties in order to successfully survive this crisis!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu quickly returned to the investigation team.


    Upon arriving at the temporary office of the investigation team, a bustling scene unfolded: Cao Dabiao, Liu Fuping, Chen Feng, and others were copying documents, organizing files.


    Qiu Tu naturally joined in and began the busy work of investigating....


    Soon, a day slowly passed by.


    During the day, Qiu Tu and the likes of Cao Dabiao and Liu Fuping finished sorting all the files, took a close look, and then discovered several interesting things.


    First, by categorizing the itineraries of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei by location, it became apparent that they often visited the Zhizhen Grand Hotel and a residence on Xintian Road.


    The former was a place where the Qin Family and United Front had once discussed cooperation.


    Considering most people''s habit of frequenting just one or two restaurants, Zhizhen Grand Hotel was very likely a meeting point for United Front, so... Vice President Tian''s suspicion was indeed very great.


    The latter was most likely one of Vice President Tian''s secret safe houses. It likely contained some clues or evidence of wrongdoing.


    Second, looking at the gift registry by the people involved with Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei, it was evident that besides frequent interactions with major merchants from the same chamber of commerce, most interactions were with the Qin Family and several major transportation vendors.


    Lastly, organizing Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itineraries and gift registry in chronological order revealed that in the past year, Vice President Tian''s visits to the Zhenzhen Grand Restaurant, as well as his dealings with the Qin Family and major transportation vendors, were becoming less and less frequent.


    Initially, he would go to the Zhenzhen Grand Hotel three or four times a month and meet with the Qin Family and major transportation vendors five or six times, but in the past two months, he had only been to the Zhenzhen Grand Hotel once and had only seen Commissioner Qin once.


    Qiu Tu guessed... this was probably because Xinjie City had been cracking down on anti-government armed forces; their influence had severely contracted, resulting in diminishing cooperation with Vice President Tian.


    Or, could it be that their cooperation had become so close that they didn''t need to meet as often?


    Due to the shortage of clues, it was impossible to determine the specific reasons for now.


    And so, after a busy day sorting through all the clues, Vice President Tian''s image in Qiu Tu''s mind grew increasingly vivid.


    Qiu Tu felt that if he wasn''t wrong, there was an 70 to 80 percent chance that Vice President Tian was problematic....


    What he was only worried about was whether Jia Shu would take any extreme actions if they arrested Vice President Tian?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s brows involuntarily furrowed. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, offending one''s immediate supervisor was always a troublesome matter¡ªespecially when that supervisor was a pervert.


    At this time, just as Qiu Tu was deep in thought.


    Seeing that the other members of the investigation team had left, Liu Fuping also came to Qiu Tu with a heavy step.


    The beautiful young woman was wearing a white strapless dress today, rich and generous. As she moved, it dazzled Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu came to his senses, glanced at her chest, then suddenly felt weak and collapsed backward.


    Liu Fuping was startled and instinctively caught Qiu Tu.


    And so... Qiu Tu naturally ended up in the arms of the beautiful young woman. Mmm... she was fragrant and soft....


    "Oh my, I feel so dizzy," Qiu Tu pretended to say.


    Liu Fu looked puzzled, her face full of surprise, "Why did you suddenly faint?"


    Qiu Tu covered his face, his elbow grazing her chest, and then pointed at Liu Fu''s strapless dress, "Too big. Dizzy...."


    Realizing what Qiu Tu meant, Liu Fu understood that he was taking advantage of her.


    Her pretty face blushed, her heart fluttered, feeling that her young superior''s methods of taking advantage were becoming more and more blatant.


    She gave Qiu Tu an annoyed look, "I have serious matters to discuss with you, and all you can think about is taking advantage of me!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and finally stopped fooling around.


    He used his strong core strength to stand up straight and then asked curiously, "What''s the serious matter Sister Liu has for me?"


    Liu Fuping leaned in close to Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Tang Feifei wants to meet with you tonight."


    "At... my place."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    -----


    Indeed, there is something going on at home tonight, only 4000 words, will return to 7000 words for two updates tomorrow.

 Chapter 98 The Boss is a Bad Guy (7k)

    "Your place?"Having just received a "Crisis Warning," Qiu Tu was now a bit paranoid.


    So his first thought was... could Liu Fuping be planning to harm him?


    To arrange their first meeting, such an important guest, at the home of a lover?


    Was Tang Feifei crazy, was Liu Fuping crazy, or were the two of them plotting some unspeakable activities?


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s wayward thoughts, Liu Fuping gave him a sidelong glance and then said, "Don''t get the wrong idea."


    "Actually... she wanted to have a coincidental meeting with you."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping briefly shared Tang Feifei''s thoughts with him.


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    Turns out, Tang Feifei had instructed her assistant, Su Xiaowan, to seek out Qiu Tu twice yesterday, once in the morning and once in the evening, in hopes of arranging a meeting with Qiu Tu, all of which Qiu Tu turned down.


    Thus, not one to give up easily, she had Su Xiaowan extend another invitation to Qiu Tu this morning, and yet Qiu Tu rejected her for the third time.


    This left her both infuriated and somewhat baffled as to what Qiu Tu was really thinking.


    Moreover, the news about Director Yan signing a "Special Arrest Warrant" and an "Authorization Letter" for Qiu Tu had spread among the upper echelons today, and she could no longer sit idly by.


    So... she then decided to meet Qiu Tu in person.


    And because of her unique status, and the sensitivity of meeting Qiu Tu alone, she decided to have Liu Fuping invite Qiu Tu over for dinner at her place.


    Afterward, she would make a visit to Liu Fuping''s home during the meal, and thus naturally come face to face with Qiu Tu.


    After hearing Liu Fuping''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s first reaction was confusion: Hold on, had he really turned down Tang Feifei three times?


    If he remembered correctly, he had only refused once yesterday morning, hadn''t he?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu''s brain started working at high speed.


    A moment later, he had a pretty good guess as to what was happening.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, Tang Feifei must have arranged for Su Xiaowan to meet him last night.


    However, Su Xiaowan''s visit coincided with his meeting with Qin Shuman, which was unexpected.


    And because Su Xiaowan ended up oversleeping after a late-night assignment, she forgot to convey Tang Feifei''s orders.


    As for the third invitation this morning, Su Xiaowan likely knew of Qiu Tu''s "true identity" and some of his thoughts, figured he wouldn''t accept, and simply took the liberty of not bothering to seek him out.


    But, it had to be said, this stroke of bad luck actually worked out for the best. Su Xiaowan''s repeated laziness had successfully made Tang Feifei restless and had unintentionally made Qiu Tu''s "fishing operation" a tremendous success¡ªshe nearly took the bait, hook, line, and sinker.


    Thinking this way, and having sorted out the whole affair, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and shamelessly took all the credit, "So that''s how it is. Then it seems my plan has worked."


    "It appears Tang Feifei has taken the bait..."


    Liu Fuping, believing all this was indeed Qiu Tu''s doing, closed the distance between them unwittingly, her eyes seductively lifted to meet his, and teasingly complimented with a hint of suggestiveness, "Yes. I didn''t expect her to lose her cool so easily."


    "It seems... the commander has quite the skills."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, and feeling the heat of her playful fire, Qiu Tu unabashedly played along.


    He gazed deeply into Liu Fuping''s eyes and joked, "Sister Liu, I''ve got more than just skills~~"


    After saying that, he winked at Liu Fuping.


    "Ho ho ho ho...."


    Liu Fuping laughed so hard her whole body shook, and then she retorted, "Really? So... care for a firsthand experience tonight?"


    With that, she squinted her eyes, provocatively licked her lips at Qiu Tu.


    For a moment there... Qiu Tu admitted he was almost on his feet.


    ''Damn it. Ever since the last time I unraveled this woman''s seal, she seems to be playing more and more freely.'' sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Cursing inwardly, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate to reach out his hand.


    ''Who cares if she''s reserved or not, only a fool would pass up an opportunity!''


    Seeing his move, Liu Fuping blushed and swatted Qiu Tu''s hand away, spitting, "Shameless."


    "It''s just talk, there''s no need for action!"


    Qiu Tu chuckled "hehe," feeling the satisfaction of gaining the upper hand.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s brazenness, Liu Fuping shook her head slightly, feeling that no matter what she did, she ended up at a disadvantage.


    Therefore, she stopped teasing Qiu Tu and turned to open the window, letting in fresh air to dispel the flirtatious atmosphere a bit.


    The cool breeze indeed helped the two overheated individuals cool down, and they were finally in the mood to discuss serious matters.


    Qiu Tu, enjoying the cool breeze, looked out the window and calmly asked, "Did you tell Tang Feifei about the leads you''ve found over the past two days?"


    Liu Fuping nodded slightly, "I did as you said, and secretly reported most of the information to her."


    She paused, "I guess that''s probably why she couldn''t stay put¡ªa big reason for her restlessness."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, his hands resting on the window sill before he fell into contemplation. After a moment, he asked, "So, did you manage to steal any intelligence from her?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated before responding, "I did steal a bit, but not much."


    Qiu Tu felt she was lying to him, but he didn''t call her out on it.


    He looked at Liu Fuping and asked, "Is there a list of spies from the Investigation Bureau in City Hall or the military?"


    At Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping visibly startled. She then looked Qiu Tu up and down with suspicion and hesitantly said, "You... are you also?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled and tapped her on the head, "What are you thinking about?"


    "Of course I''m not one of their scouts, but... I want to work with them."


    "And to collaborate, one needs leverage."


    "As you know, this case is far too complex and unique."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping fell silent for a moment before saying, "It would be quite difficult to get that list."


    "After all, the identity of a spy is top-level confidential information for any organization."


    "It''s not just about whether Tang Feifei can get it or not. Even if she could, she''d most likely keep it in her head instead of putting it down on paper."


    Qiu Tu nodded in agreement.


    Liu Fuping''s reasoning made sense. However, Qin Shuman was his important ally, and now they were working together on the Yin Caimei case. Helping Qin Shuman was helping himself, so he still wanted to give it a try...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, as he schemed on how to obtain that list.


    After considering this for a while, a plan began to take shape in Qiu Tu''s mind: It seemed that everything would depend on tonight...


    At this thought, Qiu Tu gave Liu Fuping''s plump buttocks a firm slap and said, "Alright, forget about that for now! Tonight, we go to your place and meet with Director Tang!"


    Liu Fuping was so startled by Qiu Tu''s sudden attack that she nearly jumped. She clutched her plump bottom and glared at Qiu Tu, her face flushed with embarrassment and annoyance.


    She realized that her superior officer was a naughty rascal. He would take advantage with his words if he could and with his hands if he had the chance, never bothering to conceal it.


    Furthermore, as long as she gave him a chance, he would take it. Even without an opportunity, he would find a way to create one¡ªit was both embarrassing and frustrating.


    ''Such an annoying, naughty rascal...'' she thought.


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping once again glanced at Qiu Tu with a coy look in her eye,


    .....


    She locked the documents and files in the safe, turned off the lights, and left her office.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping left the Investigation Bureau building and headed towards her home.


    Liu Fuping''s residence was located in an upscale residential district not far from the Investigation Bureau building.


    This was built before and after Xinjie City''s establishment, renovated and reconstructed by the wealthy merchants from the Sanctuary.


    While it couldn''t compare to the villas of middle and high-ranking officials, it was already much better than other neighborhoods in Xinjie City in terms of the living environment.


    Driving into the district, Qiu Tu parked the car under Liu Fuping''s guidance beneath a Western-style building.


    After parking, Qiu Tu followed Liu Fuping up to the third floor.


    This Western-style building had only one apartment per floor, and upon opening the door, there was a spacious flat of over 150 square meters.


    Qiu Tu, having never lived in such a fine residence in either of his lives, admired Liu Fuping''s home while exclaiming in wonder, "Sister Liu, is Director Tang wealthy or is it your organization behind the scenes that has money?"


    "Your place is simply like a palace."


    Liu Fuping laughed at Qiu Tu''s exaggerated tone, "My place is like a palace? What would you say if you saw the villas of Director Yan and Director Tang?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "I''ve seen them. But back then, there was only one thought in my mind."


    Liu Fuping was curious, "What thought?"


    Qiu Tu said in mock resentment, "Excessive luxury! Reckless extravagance! Living in a dream! Reveling in pleasure!"


    "Having those bastards as bureau chiefs is really an injustice by heaven! If I were the bureau chief..."


    Liu Fuping asked with curiosity, "What would you do?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "I would be an even bigger bastard!"


    "Ho ho ho ho....."


    Liu Fuping was so amused by Qiu Tu that she shook with laughter, waves following one after another, almost unable to straighten her back. Qiu Tu, thus, enjoyed another glimpse of the charms of a mature woman...


    Knowing that Tang Feifei would be arriving soon, they didn''t chat much more.


    Liu Fuping prepared several dishes according to Tang Feifei''s plan, placed them on the dining table, then uncorked a bottle of red wine of an undetermined vintage for them to enjoy.


    After that, they sat opposite each other at the dining table and started their dinner.


    Liu Fuping''s cooking wasn''t terrible, at least not fatal.


    However, Qiu Tu had barely taken a few bites when his body suddenly tensed, and all the hairs on his body stood on end!

 Chapter 99 Dinner with Two Women (7k)

    ```At that instant, his instincts made him look toward the door, filled with a sense of danger as if he had encountered a "natural enemy."


    As he savored the feeling, it didn''t seem quite like a natural enemy but more like the instinctive reaction of a lower animal on the food chain encountering a higher one.


    He couldn''t help but look up at Liu Fuping.


    But strangely, Liu Fuping seemed to have no reaction at all and continued to eat her dinner with her head down.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat puzzled: Could it be... that only Cataclysmics have this sense of detection? Ordinary people can''t feel it?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but quickly conceal all his presence, trying to make himself appear no different from Liu Fuping.


    But... his attention remained fixed on the door.


    Because, if his guess was correct, the person outside the door giving him such a strong sense of presence must be Tang Feifei!


    Indeed, following Qiu Tu''s train of thought.


    Someone outside Liu Fuping''s room door gently knocked.


    Liu Fuping gave Qiu Tu a look and then stood up while calling out, "Coming. Who is it?"


    As she spoke, she walked to the door and then opened it.


    The next second was the moment for a showdown of two best actresses'' acting skills.


    Upon seeing Tang Feifei outside the door, Liu Fuping timely displayed a surprised expression, "Director Tang? What brings you here?"


    And Tang Feifei outside held up the food she brought and said somewhat aloofly, "I happen to be free today, so I came to have dinner with you."


    As she said this, she rigidly glanced toward the dining area inside the house and then asked expressionlessly, "Do you have guests over?"


    Hearing her, best actress Liu Fuping also timely made room and said with an awkward expression, "Yes, we worked too late today at the investigation team, so I invited my supervisor Qiu Tu over for a simple meal."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping looked towards Qiu Tu and introduced him, "Chief Qiu, this is Deputy Director Tang from our Investigation Bureau."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s introduction, Qiu Tu knew the time had come to test his acting skills. He stood up with a look of surprise, glanced at Liu Fuping, then at Tang Feifei.


    Then he respectfully bowed to Tang Feifei, "Director Tang, hello!"


    Tang Feifei, upon hearing this, seemed to have some of the frost on her face melt away.


    Looking at Qiu Tu, she nodded, "Since it''s one of our own, let''s all eat together."


    With that simple sentence, Tang Feifei seized control of the conversation, depriving Qiu Tu of even the chance to refuse.


    So, Qiu Tu also timely displayed a hint of embarrassment and difficulty. Then he reluctantly said, "Then I will respectfully comply."


    "Please, Director Tang."


    And so, with three people and two agendas, the stage was set for the night''s events to begin.


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    Liu Fuping led Tang Feifei to the dining table. Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on Tang Feifei for a short moment, seeing this legendary woman for the first time. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Liu Fuping had said: Tang Feifei possessed a demeanor unlike ordinary people. She was like a mother tiger, a lioness, naturally exuding a confident regal aura, as if nothing in this world could ever trouble her.


    Coupled with her wheat-colored skin, her neat short hair, robust figure, and icy demeanor, she was indeed a woman with her unique charm!


    After Tang Feifei sat down, an icy atmosphere permeated the air, and the whole table''s ambiance became a bit more sober.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping took the initiative to pour Tang Feifei a glass of wine and then raised her glass, inviting, "Director, Chief, meeting today must be fate."


    "Let''s have a drink."


    Having said that, she drained the wine in her glass.


    As the host, neither Qiu Tu nor Tang Feifei could refuse the courtesy, so seeing this, they "had to" pick up their glasses and started to drink as well.


    After one drink, Liu Fuping poured another glass for both of them and herself, then continued, "This second glass of wine, I want to thank the Director and the Chief. Without you two, there would be no me."


    "It''s really not easy for a weak woman like me to find a place in this chaotic world."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping once again drained her glass.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei, who gave him a look back, then she picked up her glass and boldly drained it in one gulp.


    Qiu Tu felt a little bald.


    This part wasn''t in the script.


    His tolerance for alcohol could only be considered average; having drunk two glasses already, how was he to continue drinking?


    Although he was complaining inwardly, Qiu Tu had no choice but to refuse, so he could only pick up his glass and drink another one.


    The three of them were drinking red wine from glasses that held around 200-300 milliliters; even if the wine was only poured halfway, it would still be about 100-150 milliliters per glass.


    Two glasses down, this was equivalent to drinking 4-6 liang (200-300 milliliters) of alcohol on an empty stomach.


    So, seeing Liu Fuping picking up the third glass, Qiu Tu hurriedly decided to skip this "ice-breaking" activity.


    He took the initiative to pick up his glass and toasted to Tang Feifei, "Director Tang, I had long heard of your esteemed name, but I did not expect to meet you tonight. Truly, it is a great fortune in life."


    "To you."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu drained his glass.


    With Qiu Tu''s toast, Tang Feifei finally showed a hint of a smile on her ice-like face.


    She smiled slightly and also drank the wine in her glass, formally starting the evening''s serious conversation with Qiu Tu, "I have actually been paying close attention to Chief Qiu as well."


    "I have even asked my assistant to invite you over to my office several times."


    "But you seem to be busy and haven''t had the time?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu took a bite of food, and while eating, he spoke as if he was troubled, "Today, I have been pursued here by Director Tang, so I won''t hide it from you anymore."


    ```

 Chapter 99 Dinner with Two Women (7k)_2

    "Actually, I''m in a difficult position as well.""I was brought up by Secretary Bai and Minister Jia, and I''ve also received favor from Director Yan."


    "And your... relationship with him is well known within the Bureau."


    "So... it really wouldn''t be appropriate for me to meet with you...."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s expression remained unchanged, but Liu Fuping was startled.


    The two of them hadn''t planned for this.


    Moreover... by talking so frankly, wasn''t Qiu Tu aware that he might make the atmosphere awkward tonight, or expose himself by acknowledging that Tang Feifei had set him up?


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but glance at Tang Feifei.


    To her surprise, Tang Feifei seemed not the least bit taken aback.


    Liu Fuping grew more puzzled. After pondering for a moment, she suddenly realized:


    Given the abilities Qiu Tu had displayed to the outside world, even if he hadn''t been aware beforehand, he should have guessed that this was all a deliberate arrangement the moment Tang Feifei appeared.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s decision to directly clarify his understanding of the situation was the most appropriate and logical action. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With this realization, Liu Fuping suddenly felt she still had a long way to go to be a qualified spy....


    While she was thinking this, Tang Feifei spoke up.


    Tang Feifei didn''t deny that tonight''s arrangement was intentional. In fact... she made things even clearer. She said calmly, "I understand the concerns in Chief Qiu''s heart."


    "But if you ask me, the moment Jia Shu handed over the Yin Caimei case to you, they had essentially already given up on you."


    With that, Tang Feifei took a sip of her drink before continuing, "This case may be small, but it has attracted too many people''s attention."


    "One wrong step, and you could fall into an abyss."


    At the right moment, Qiu Tu sighed, picked up his drink, and also took a sip.


    Then he glanced at Liu Fuping and said to Tang Feifei, "It seems Director Tang is already aware of everything?"


    Tang Feifei raised her eyebrows noncommittally.


    Qiu Tu sighed again, looking resigned and a bit faraway as he said, "Actually, I''m very conflicted now."


    "When I received this case, I felt something wasn''t quite right."


    "But it was a task given by the minister, and I couldn''t refuse. So, I had to go ahead and investigate, no matter what."


    "The more I looked into it, the more frightened I became. The local magnates of Xinjie City, the great merchants from the Sanctuary, the Municipal Committee, the military, the Investigation Bureau, forces from all sides entangled within."


    "Even within each faction, there are different ideas and opinions about this case."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu deliberately let his gaze become unfocused, as if he was drunk.


    He gave an example, "Take our Investigation Bureau, for example."


    "Our minister seems to have some special relationship with Vice President Tian."


    "So he has been hinting to me to make a sham case, to brush this one off."


    "And... Director Yan, because our minister went against him on this matter, has asked me to be strict with this case."


    Qiu Tu raised both hands, his eyes bleary, and said, "One superior, and the superior of my superior."


    "Being caught between these two people, I already have a difficult time."


    "Not to mention, there are over a dozen other forces I dare not provoke!"


    Upon hearing the "inadvertent" intelligence that Qiu Tu disclosed, Tang Feifei''s eyes flickered slightly, and a thoughtful expression emerged on her face.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her inadvertently, knowing that she had received the message he had conveyed.


    Yes, that''s right; the reason Qiu Tu made the key contradiction of the matter explicit was to cast the "bait" out first to capture Tang Feifei''s attention.


    On the way to Liu Fuping''s home earlier, Qiu Tu had been contemplating what to use to drag Tang Feifei into the water.


    Lies made up on the spot? Fabricated clues? Pie-in-the-sky promises?


    Qiu Tu felt none of these would work.


    After finalizing the plan to drag Tang Feifei into the scheme yesterday, Qiu Tu carefully gathered information about her.


    In his mind, Tang Feifei was a woman who possessed both the sensibility of a mature woman and the calmness of a politician.


    As a standard Action-Oriented Person, she was confident, strong, and shrewd, like a queen who couldn''t tolerate sand in her eyes.


    Therefore, if Qiu Tu were to open the situation with deceit, it would be too easy to provoke backlash.


    So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu decided to still lure the strong and predatory her with "true information," which interested her the most!


    And what was she most interested in?


    At first, Qiu Tu thought it was leveraging Yan Chen''s weaknesses.


    But later he realized... Yan Chen''s weaknesses might seem useful, but in fact, they weren''t very effective.


    After all, compared to Yan Chen, Tang Feifei''s influence, whether in Xinjie City or the Sanctuary, was far weaker.


    Just relying on some dirt, you couldn''t bring down Yan Chen, and it was very likely only to startle the snake in the grass.


    Therefore, even if Qiu Tu collected a bunch of dirt on Yan Chen for Tang Feifei, it was highly probable that after obtaining it, she would lie low and stop taking action.


    Since Yan Chen''s weaknesses wouldn''t lure Tang Feifei, what could?


    Qiu Tu felt it was the weaknesses of Jia Shu and the fractures in the relationship between Yan Chen and Jia Shu...


    As the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei couldn''t touch Yan Chen, but by allying with other deputy directors or higher-ups, she might be able to make a move on Jia Shu.


    And Jia Shu, being Yan Chen''s right-hand man and the highest-ranking person in the ace department of the Political Department of the Investigation Bureau...


    Once he was taken down, Yan Chen would not only lose an arm, reducing her strength, but also vacate a position in a department with real power, offering huge benefits.


    Indeed, when Tang Feifei heard the "secret" about Jia Shu that Qiu Tu disclosed, her gaze changed, as if filled with aggressiveness.


    Qiu Tu sneakily glanced at Tang Feifei and, confirming that she was interested, continued to speak "drunkenly,"


    "Ah. Actually... I quite understand our minister."


    "He seems to have a very close personal relationship with Vice President Tian, and the two sides have many collaborations."


    "And this time, Vice President Tian has promised to set up a monitoring system capable of surveilling all communication networks in the city for him."


    "It''s no wonder he''s tempted."


    "After all, it''s said that this monitoring system can retrieve all the records of any communicator within a certain time frame."


    "It can also eavesdrop on targeted communicators'' calls and message contents."


    "Even without the communicators'' numbers, one could designate an area and listen in on all communications within that range."


    Qiu Tu''s words were actually improvised based on the development of technology from his past life.


    But... who can resist being bluffed by such convincing tales?


    Thus, Tang Feifei''s pupils noticeably contracted slightly.


    Qiu Tu knew he had achieved his second step: painting a picture of crisis.


    Just like Qiu Tu didn''t want the expansion of Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s power.


    As Yan Chen''s political opponent, Tang Feifei obviously didn''t want Yan Chen and Jia Shu to expand their influence either.


    So, telling Tang Feifei "If she didn''t stop them, then the expansion of Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s power would be unstoppable, and it could make her future incredibly passive" became Qiu Tu''s second step in forcing Tang Feifei to make a choice.


    Having completed the second step, Qiu Tu knew that he should give Tang Feifei some time to process the information, and it was also time for him to use his two Cataclysmic treasures!


    Tang Feifei had drunk several glasses of wine just now, making her face slightly red. Although her gaze was still incredibly clear, there was still a hint of tipsiness.


    So, if he used the Mandragora Love Drug at this moment, she was more likely not to notice anything unusual. Or even if she did notice something was off, she would probably attribute it to the alcohol.


    Then he would add the Lucky Joker Card on top.


    Using the two treasures together might bring unexpected effectiveness to the plan for the evening.


    Thinking this way, he rose unsteadily and slurred his way to Liu Fuping, "Liu, Sister Liu... where is your restroom?"


    -----

 Chapter 100 Using the Lucky Joker Card (7k)

    At this moment, Liu Fuping was still immersed in the topic guidance that Qiu Tu had towards Tang Feifei.Previously, she had only tangentially understood Qiu Tu''s brainwashing skills, but she had never experienced them firsthand.


    However, tonight, as an observer with "God''s Perspective," she watched Qiu Tu''s brainwashing process up close and felt she had gained a lot.


    Every word, every action, and even every expression of Qiu Tu''s was subtly guiding the situation at the dinner table.


    Clearly, Tang Feifei had an impressive presence, and she had taken control of the entire conversation as soon as she sat down, relying on her own status.


    But... under Qiu Tu''s silent and unnoticeable influence, the control of the topic was slowly being stolen by Qiu Tu.


    Possessing God''s Perspective, Liu Fuping could even clearly discern Qiu Tu''s purpose with each step.


    This kind of unique firsthand teaching was making Liu Fuping grow rapidly.


    Initially, Liu Fuping thought the conversation tonight would just continue indefinitely, but to her surprise, Qiu Tu suddenly stopped the topic and, with a tipsy stagger, stood up to go to the bathroom.


    Honestly, Liu Fuping was a bit puzzled by Qiu Tu''s purpose in doing this. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But having already witnessed many of Qiu Tu''s miraculous actions tonight, she still chose to quietly observe his actions.


    She felt that if she could fully understand all of Qiu Tu''s actions tonight, then she was not far from becoming an excellent con artist... ah, no, an excellent spy.


    So with that thought, when she saw Qiu Tu stand up, Liu Fuping quickly stood up as well.


    She first pointed towards the location of the bathroom, and then said, "The bathroom is over there. Chief Qiu, let me help you over."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, with a drunken wave of his hand, said, "I''m not drunk, and even if I were... I could still hold myself up! No need for your help."


    After saying this, he staggered toward the direction Liu Fuping had indicated.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s coarse words, Liu Fuping''s face flushed slightly, then she stealthily glanced at Tang Feifei.


    She had assumed Tang Feifei would be furious upon hearing Qiu Tu tease her like that.


    However, to her surprise, Tang Feifei seemed to be so lost in thought, furrowing her brows as if she hadn''t heard anything.


    The healthy wheat color of Tang Feifei''s skin looked exceptionally beautiful under the dim lighting, exuding a rare athletic beauty of a woman.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping''s brain worked quickly, and then she sat back down in her dining chair, tentatively asking, "Director Tang, what''s the matter?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s question, Tang Feifei slowly came back to reality.


    Her expressions seemed to always be few, or even if she had any, they were always faint.


    So first, she looked deeply in the direction Qiu Tu had gone and then spoke somewhat pensively, "I was thinking about the information Qiu Tu just shared with me."


    "When he was talking just now, I only felt some interest, and it seemed very important."


    "But when he left and I had time to think, I started to feel more and more frightened."


    "If this case were really covered up by Jia Shu, the Political Department might soar to new heights, becoming Xinjie City''s most powerful department."


    "From then on, no one would be able to escape the Political Department''s surveillance and control."


    "No matter who it is, the Political Department could easily obtain their whereabouts, communication records, know everything about them."


    "At that moment, the Political Department would become the true black terror of Xinjie City..."


    As she spoke to this point, Tang Feifei paused and then added hesitantly, "So... the more I think about it, the more I wonder if I should collaborate with Qiu Tu to take a shot at Jia Shu?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Liu Fuping''s face showed a sudden realization.


    It wasn''t that she understood Tang Feifei''s thoughts, but she suddenly grasped Qiu Tu''s intention: High-intensity expression of viewpoints wasn''t as effective as a high-intensity output of some viewpoints, followed by time for the other party to reflect, before continuing with the strong output.


    This was like a kind of life rhythm: learning by alternating effort with breaks was definitely more enjoyable than blindly toiling away.


    Having suddenly understood everything, Liu Fuping truly wished she could take out a notebook and jot down all her epiphanies.


    She felt this lesson was just too important...


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Liu Fuping was seriously studying, Qiu Tu had arrived at the bathroom.


    He closed the bathroom door, quickly checked the setup to ensure Liu Fuping hadn''t gone to the extreme of installing cameras in there, and then Qiu Tu took out the Mandragora Love Drug from his pocket.


    He dripped a drop of the love drug onto the tip of his right index finger, then skillfully smeared it onto his neck.


    Next, he put the potion back into his pocket and then took the Lucky Joker Card out from the Countdown Treasure Chest.


    As he took out the Lucky Joker Card, the next second, a deck of cards fell into his hands.


    ```


    The cards felt slightly heavy in hand, thicker and more coarse than traditional playing cards.


    Qiu Tu looked down and observed that the back of the 21 cards was blue, with a strange pattern combining inverted triangles, circles, and squares.


    Qiu Tu flipped the cards, finding among the 21 cards a black joker and a colored joker.


    The remaining 19 cards were all aces, with six of diamonds, six of clubs, three of hearts, three of spades, and one ace had a golden pattern that he had never seen before.


    With the joker cards in hand, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but contemplate his plan.


    In fact, if he was only after gaining Tang Feifei''s favor or striking a deal with her, then the "Mandragora Love Drug" would have sufficed.


    However, the reason he now produced the "Lucky Joker Card" was not only to experiment with the effects of this set of cataclysmic treasures but also to try to obtain the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau located in the Security Department from Tang Feifei.


    According to Golden Finger''s explanation, if one drew the "Lucky Ace Card," they would get a chance for "Luck Guidance."


    This guidance could be "aimless" or "purposeful."


    Considering the sensitive nature of the spy list, Qiu Tu felt he had to use the "Lucky Joker Card" for guidance.


    If the "Lucky Joker Card" guided him to ask that question, then Qiu Tu would ask.


    If the "Lucky Joker Card" did not guide him to ask that question, then Qiu Tu would temporarily give up in order to avoid exposing a possible connection with the Security Department from asking it.


    After recalling his plan, Qiu Tu didn''t delay, he flipped the cards and began shuffling.


    Once the cards were thoroughly shuffled, a mysterious force suddenly descended upon the deck.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu knew he could draw a card.


    Craftily, he attempted to flip the cards face-up and draw, but found¡ªastonishingly¡ªthat the card seemed to be fixed in mid-air, impossible to turn over.


    ''Could it be the power of the rules inherent in the treasure preventing me?'' he thought.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu abandoned trying to be clever and drew a card normally from the deck.


    He flipped the card. An Ace of Clubs appeared before Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief: although he didn''t draw the golden ace, he had at least succeeded.


    Along with his thoughts, the next second, a faint mysterious force descended upon him.


    Feeling that faint mysterious force, Qiu Tu put away the cards and then washed his hands before he awkwardly left the restroom.


    When he got back to the dining table, whether the two minutes he left for Tang Feifei let her reconsider her "situation," or the "Mandragora Love Drug" took effect, wasn''t clear.


    Qiu Tu felt that Tang Feifei seemed a bit different. Although she still appeared cold and indifferent, her eyes had softened considerably.


    Qiu Tu felt relieved in his heart; the worst-case scenario, Tang Feifei discovering he had used a cataclysmic treasure, had not happened.


    Indeed, as long as the other person had no malice and he provided a certain buffer, the covert nature of the "Mandragora Love Drug" was quite good.


    The situation like the one with Liu Fuping before must have been an exception.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu continued with his plan. He sat on the dining chair, his gaze cloudy as he looked at Tang Feifei, and asked with a slurred tongue, "So-sorry, Sister Tang. Where was I in the conversation just now?"


    Qiu Tu''s change in address was actually a probing act to shorten the distance between them, but although Tang Feifei''s eyebrows lightly furrowed, she didn''t correct him.


    She glanced at Qiu Tu and said coolly, "You were just talking about Minister Jia and Vice President Tian''s collaboration."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said, "Oh," as if just remembering, and slapped his forehead, "Look at my memory, I just can''t handle my liquor."


    While saying this, he nevertheless offered a toast to Tang Feifei, "Come, Director, let''s drink while we talk."


    After speaking, he drained the glass of red wine in one gulp.


    Only after watching Tang Feifei drink did he continue, "Actually, I''ve never understood why our Minister Jia would do this!"


    "He clearly has power and influence, and even with a standard development, his future is limitless. There''s absolutely no need to risk himself for a businessman."


    "The things he''s done, tsk tsk...."


    Qiu Tu''s two previous steps had already set the objectives for Tang Feifei and built a sense of crisis, so what he needed to do next was to provide Tang Feifei with the handle on Jia Shu.


    As expected, Tang Feifei''s interest was immediately piqued upon hearing this.


    Coupled with the dual effects of alcohol and the "Mandragora Love Drug" lowering her guard and weakening her rationality, she couldn''t help asking curiously, "What did Jia Shu do?"


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s unusually off-guard demeanor, Qiu Tu immediately knew the cataclysmic treasure had taken effect.


    So, with his acting in full force, he said in his usual persuasive manner, "Sister Tang, actually, the moment I saw you today, I just felt an extraordinary sense of closeness..."


    ```

 Chapter 101 Liu Fuping, You Go Out First (7k)

    So he put on a dramatic performance, using his usual spiel he said, "Sister Tang, actually, from the moment I saw you today, I felt an unusual sense of closeness...""Just like we have met before."


    "These are words I normally shouldn''t say. After all, Jia Shu is my boss. If he knew I was talking about his scandals behind his back, he would definitely not let me off."


    "But since it''s Sister Tang who asked...."


    After laying the groundwork, Qiu Tu then leaned in close to Tang Feifei and whispered, "Sister Tang, let me tell you, Jia Shu... he''s actually mad!"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s expression changed slightly, as if she had guessed something, her eyes flickering twice.


    Qiu Tu noticed this detail and continued, "He relies on his ability to cover the sky with one hand in the Political Department. In the Yin Caimei case, he actually operated against the rules."


    "In theory, a key criminal like Yin Caimei shouldn''t carry any personal items to avoid uncontrollable incidents."


    "Yet, he specially allowed Yin Caimei to bring many personal garments, and even let her bring in a Cataclysmic treasure."


    "And what''s more crucial is that this Cataclysmic treasure was the murder weapon that killed Yin Caimei!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu said mysteriously, "If he didn''t know about this treasure, that''s one thing."


    "If he knew about the function of this treasure in advance, doesn''t that make him an accomplice?"


    When Tang Feifei heard Qiu Tu''s words, her gaze began to flash crazily.


    Qiu Tu''s first few points didn''t much concern her: after all, letting a criminal carry items, though a bit negligent, was not a major issue for an official like Jia Shu.


    But... the speculations in the latter half stirred her interest.


    How items illegally brought in could serve as murder weapons... there was much to be exploited there.


    If Jia Shu truly was an accomplice in this major case, then just that alone would be enough for her to impeach him.


    And if Jia Shu wasn''t... huh? How could he not be? She declared him to be, so he was!


    With this in mind, Tang Feifei suddenly saw the light and even figured out how to target Jia Shu.


    However, precisely because of this, she looked at Qiu Tu with a hint of suspicion.


    For some reason, she always felt... that the idea was "implanted" in her by Qiu Tu. Was he deliberately leading her to such thoughts?


    But, seeing Qiu Tu''s drunken state, Tang Feifei doubted that assumption.


    ''Am I overthinking it?'' she wondered. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As she thought thus, Tang Feifei took another deep look at Qiu Tu.


    But whether it was an illusion or not, after a few glances, she suddenly felt that Qiu Tu seemed... very handsome.


    Moreover, the drunken Qiu Tu appeared especially "cute"... giving her a desire to get closer.


    With this realization, Tang Feifei was stunned. Why would she... be interested in a man?!


    Impossible!


    With that thought, she couldn''t help but look towards Liu Fuping standing beside her.


    The beautiful young woman must have drunk some red wine and was slightly tipsy, her pale face blushing prettily, looking exceptionally beautiful and alluring under the dim lights.


    Yet, for some reason... when compared to Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei suddenly felt a lack of interest,


    She glanced at Qiu Tu, then at Liu Fuping, but eventually chose to keep her eyes on Qiu Tu and continued to listen to the scandals about Jia Shu.


    Qiu Tu had indeed prepared long for this day.


    Thus, after finishing speaking about Jia Shu''s rule violations in the "Yin Caimei" case, he began to recount the various rumors about Jia Shu in the department.


    Brutally killing suspects, secretly executing investigators, illegally arresting officials... he piled every true or false accusation before Tang Feifei.


    After all, Qiu Tu''s primary goal was just to drag Tang Feifei into the fray, to divert attention and share the fire.


    So, all he needed was to imbue Tang Feifei with the image of Jia Shu as someone "riddled with scandal and filth," influencing Tang Feifei''s judgment.


    As to whether he could really take down Jia Shu, he didn''t care.


    Taking him down would be great, but if not, he would not be at a loss.


    So, under the barrage of Qiu Tu''s descriptions, under the dual debuffs of alcohol and the Mandragora Love Drug, Tang Feifei was indeed slowly "brainwashed" by Qiu Tu.


    Although her aloof personality kept her from denouncing Jia Shu like Qiu Tu, her deep eyes indicated that the image of Jia Shu had taken form.


    However, people who could become Bureau Chiefs certainly had skills. So even under the influence of alcohol and the Mandragora Love Drug, Tang Feifei managed to maintain some rationality.


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s explanations, she pondered for a moment and still said, "Qiu Tu, I would really like to help you."


    "But... the Yin Caimei case is indeed very complex."


    "In such an unclear situation, even I wouldn''t dare to take action rashly."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, hesitated, then finally touched the Lucky Joker Card in his pocket and said tentatively, "What if it''s not just... you?"


    As Qiu Tu uttered these words, he suddenly felt an overwhelming desire to confess: as if he was being guided to lay all his plans bare and come to an agreement with Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback,


    ''Is this Luck Guidance?''


    ''So... is this telling me the timing is right? To reveal the Security Department and ask for the list?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu once again took a step forward and probed, "Actually... the Security Department is very interested in this case as well..."

 Chapter 101 Liu Fuping, You Go Out First (7k)_2

    Qiu Tu''s voice was very light, but it jolted Tang Feifei awake from her somewhat hazy gaze.Her eyes widened, and she looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of disbelief.


    At the same time, Qiu Tu also suddenly felt as if a mysterious and powerful force had descended upon him, as if it were going to crush him.


    Qiu Tu struggled to maintain his composure, and quietly looked back at Tang Feifei.


    The two of them locked eyes like this, one second, two seconds, three seconds¡­


    The atmosphere at the dinner table seemed to have frozen.


    Just like that, after staring at each other for a good four or five seconds, a smile suddenly appeared on Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face.


    By now, there was not a trace of confusion in her eyes, only the utmost rationality.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with interest and said, "I didn''t expect this... Chief Qiu really has some tricks up his sleeve."


    With a reminiscent look in her eyes, she then carefully said, "If I''m not mistaken, from the very start of our conversation, you''ve been deliberately leading the topic¡­"


    "First, you tell me about a feasible target, to arouse my interest; then you create a crisis for me, letting me realize that if I continue to allow Yan Chen and Jia Shu to have their way, my future will be even more difficult; and finally, you throw Jia Shu''s weak points at me, letting me know where to start!"


    "So, when I go back tonight, I just need to do a simple investigation to find that everything is under control, and then I''ll take action."


    "As for you¡­ you''re just drunkenly complaining about a few things. Whether this matter succeeds or not has nothing to do with you."


    "You''re still the darling favorite of Yan Chen and Jia Shu!"


    "What a brilliant stroke of using someone else''s hand to kill! Brilliant!" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    By the end, Tang Feifei even gave a light round of applause.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu''s heart lurched: Damn it... Is the [Lucky Joker Card] some kind of counterfeit treasure?!


    It was supposed to guide me in what to say, but after I spoke out, it ended up alerting Tang Feifei?!


    This is screwing me over!


    Could it be... that in order to extract the name list, what I need is to showcase myself and then attract Tang Feifei?


    Can this really work?


    While pondering the feasibility of this idea, Qiu Tu''s brain raced as he looked for countermeasures.


    After a moment, he had made up his mind.


    He simply stopped pretending; his eyes were no longer hazy, his body no longer swayed. He wiped his face, sat up straight with a smile, and looked at Tang Feifei, praising, "Director Tang is really remarkable."


    "All my little tricks have been seen through by you."


    If it was only that Tang Feifei was bluffing Qiu Tu just now and hadn''t been 100% sure of the truth, now she truly believed she had been led by the nose by Qiu Tu since the moment she sat down at the table.


    In that instant, she felt both the shameful irritation of being played by Qiu Tu and a strong desire to "hunt"!


    Her whole demeanor surged with energy, like a female leopard that has spotted especially interesting prey!


    She looked at Qiu Tu with great interest, her eyes burning with a heat that almost seemed to spill over, "So... Chief Qiu has actually been dissatisfied with Yan Chen and Jia Shu for a while now?"


    Qiu Tu quickly waved his hands, pretending to be scared, and said, "Director Tang, that''s slander!"


    "I never said such things!"


    Afterward, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he said with a smile, "I just don''t like my fate being in the hands of others, that''s all."


    He paused, then answered Tang Feifei using her words, "And as you said at the beginning: The moment they handed the Yin Caimei case over to me, they had actually already given up on me..."


    "Though I''m unwilling to betray them, but... it''s always fine to protect myself a little, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s rhetorical question, the interest in Tang Feifei''s eyes grew even greater, and she asked, "So... have you switched sides to the Security Department?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "Not at all."


    "It''s just a simple collaboration."


    Qiu Tu said seriously, "The Security Department is interested in the Yin Caimei case, and I needed someone to share the pressure."


    "So, it was a perfect match for both sides."


    "As for... how I got connected with the Security Department."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei, "It was Minister Jia who took the initiative to connect me; he even taught me how to gain the trust of the Security Department."


    "I had contact with the Security Department before, so he wanted me to be a double agent, to gather intelligence from them."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei frowned slightly, obviously not expecting such a scenario.


    She didn''t suspect Qiu Tu of lying to her: there wasn''t much value in hiding such a matter. Because whether it was Jia Shu who connected him or not, the fact that Qiu Tu was playing both sides was indisputable.


    So, Tang Feifei teased, "So, would you say that Jia Shu tripped himself up?"


    Qiu Tu drank his liquor and said with a smile, "You could say that."


    Tang Feifei looked at him, just gazing, and after a moment, the corners of her mouth lifted slightly, and she gestured with her hand, "Tell me your plan."


    "What do you intend to do?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate, and he said earnestly, "I don''t have a plan. I just... want to proceed with this case, to see those insiders get the punishment they deserve!"


    "Since my power is too weak, I can''t solve this case alone. So I will unite more people, to tackle this case together!"


    Now that it had come to this, Qiu Tu didn''t hide anything anymore.


    He picked up three glass cups, placed them on the table, and then said seriously, "These three glass cups represent the possible three accomplices in this case and their corresponding resistance."


    He picked up the first glass, "This is Vice President Tian and the forces behind him."


    Qiu Tu said, "Since I am constrained by Jia Shu, I can''t investigate this direction. But if the Security Department is interested, then I will leave it to them to investigate."


    Qiu Tu picked up the second glass cup, "This is Jia Shu. He''s my superior, and I can''t investigate him either."


    Qiu Tu placed this glass cup in front of Tang Feifei, "Therefore, I''ve come to you, hoping you will deal with or control him."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu picked up the third glass cup, gesturing, "This is... the real criminal in this case."


    "As long as both of you achieve results, or draw enough energy from the other two parties, then I can take him down naturally!"


    Finishing his point, Qiu Tu stacked the three glass cups on top of each other, "And if things go well, if the three of us don''t hold each other back, then capturing them all isn''t a dream!"


    After that, Qiu Tu picked up the three glass cups and smashed them to the ground!


    With a "smash!" the glasses broke upon impact, and shards scattered all over the floor!


    Liu Fuping, who had been confused by the sudden change of events, finally came to her senses. She covered her mouth with her hands, looking at the shattered glass on the floor with a pained expression, even forgetting to continue studying.


    At this moment, Tang Feifei''s gaze became even more intense!


    She looked at Qiu Tu, feeling more and more that he suited her tastes!


    It was as if all the blood in her body began to boil, causing her eyes to sparkle with an orange light!


    She gazed into Qiu Tu''s eyes, speaking resolutely, "State your conditions. Besides wanting to cooperate, you must also want something from me, right?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked straight into Tang Feifei''s eyes and said decisively, "I want Yan Chen''s spy list in the military, or part of it."


    "This is a foundation for my cooperation with the Security Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s gaze narrowed slightly.


    Her brows furrowed.


    After a moment, as if she had thought of something, she asked tentatively, "Is it because Jia Shu wants to clear out the military spies? So, the military wants to make a trade?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Tang Feifei smiled; her orange eyes glowed slightly, "I can agree to that."


    "But... I have an additional condition."


    Having said that, she didn''t wait for Qiu Tu to speak, but suddenly said to Liu Fuping, "Fuping, go out."


    Liu Fuping, still upset about the glass, heard this, paused for a moment, then looked at Tang Feifei and... was filled with question marks: ??


    -----


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 Chapter 102 43 out of 108 Ways to Enhance Affection (Subscribe!)

    Watching Tang Feifei''s resolute expression, Liu Fuping felt a bit dazed.She really felt like she couldn''t understand the situation tonight.


    She briefly recalled:


    After Qiu Tu came out of the bathroom, he was as stable as ever.


    Whether it was getting closer to Tang Feifei or throwing out Jia Shu''s handle, he did it perfectly.


    The whole topic was gradually taken back under Qiu Tu''s control.


    And... she wasn''t sure if it was an illusion.


    At that time, Liu Fuping always felt that after coming out of the bathroom, Qiu Tu seemed to possess a special charm.


    That charm was both strong and enchanting, it even made her somewhat distracted from learning, only wanting to squeeze her legs together, her delicate body slightly twisting....


    So, in her spare time, she took a glance at Tang Feifei. To her surprise, Tang Feifei, who was usually indifferent to men, also seemed a bit off. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This sudden realization while she was still perplexed made her heart skip a beat: she remembered the romantic incident that happened between her and Qiu Tu that day.


    Although that day Qiu Tu denied that he had done anything, and Liu Fuping indeed had no evidence. But a woman''s intuition was telling Liu Fuping that there was something wrong that day....


    Therefore, when that familiar feeling emerged again, Liu Fuping suddenly had an alarming thought:


    Qiu Tu wouldn''t have used that method again tonight, and even used it on Tang Feifei, would he?


    At that thought, Liu Fuping was startled: This... What to do?


    She wasn''t feeling sorry for Tang Feifei, but worried about Qiu Tu.


    Although Tang Feifei was a woman, she was quite strong.


    As a woman herself, barely enduring it, she couldn''t handle it.


    Qiu Tu... don''t get screwed by Mu Zhai!


    However, before Liu Fuping could think of a way to save Qiu Tu, the situation took a sudden and drastic turn.


    First, Tang Feifei suddenly sobered up and discovered Qiu Tu''s "conspiracy"; then Qiu Tu tore off the facade, actually admitting to the whole plan!


    Subsequently, Qiu Tu''s honesty actually stabilized the situation?


    And Tang Feifei grew more interested in Qiu Tu?


    Truth be told, Liu Fuping, who was really worried that the two would start fighting, was completely dumbfounded at that moment.


    Even when Qiu Tu smashed that 300 Copper Yuan glass and she was kicked out of her own home by Tang Feifei, she was all but dazed....


    Putting on a coat, standing at her own doorstep, Liu Fuping hugged her chest and stamped her foot, feeling.... What is all this about!


    That was obviously her own home! Why was she kicked out?


    And... why is there always a feeling of being cuckolded right to her face!


    Liu Fuping felt all messed up inside....


    Especially when thinking about how delectable Qiu Tu looked tonight, it annoyed her even more.


    She was the first one there! How did it end up like this?!


    Thinking so, Liu Fuping anxiously paced a few steps at the door, then she looked left and right to make sure no one had noticed her, after which she gently pressed her ear against the door, trying to listen to the movement inside.


    Two seconds later....


    Liu Fuping had never hated the quality of her apartment building more! The soundproofing was just too good!


    Damn it!


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    After Liu Fuping was driven away, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu with an expression full of interest.


    Possibly because of the alcohol, or maybe the effect of the "Mandragora Love Drug" was still there, her amber eyes were once again a bit hazy....


    "Qiu Tu. If... you were to score me, what would you give me?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu sized her up and down.


    There was no denying, Tang Feifei was a very energetic woman.


    Although her looks could only be considered slightly above average, the unique wildness she carried, her healthy wheatish complexion, and that queenly aura were all different from ordinary women''s beauty.


    So Qiu Tu hesitated a bit, then said with a smile, "9 points."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s lips curved into a smile, ready to mock Qiu Tu for being unoriginal.


    Although her sexual orientation was different, being in a high position and good-looking, she wasn''t short of men flattering her, so she had seen plenty of men''s routines:


    10 points seemed insincere, below 8 points was likely to offend a strong woman like her.


    Therefore, 9 points was just right, as there was no perfect woman, and... it could naturally lead into the next topic.


    But before she could voice her mockery, Qiu Tu added with a grin, "Out of 100 points."


    At that moment, Tang Feifei first froze, then her lips curled fiercely upward.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a smile, the danger flickering in her amber pupils, "Really? Then what does Chief Qiu think I''m missing in those 91 points?"


    Qiu Tu actually took it seriously and went on to evaluate her. He touched his chin, looking her up and down, "Breasts not big enough, waist not slim enough, legs...passable."


    "The aura is a bit too harsh and assertive, lacking the gentle flow of a woman."


    "Your speech is cold, lacking a bit of charm."


    "So... Commander, I really can''t give you a high score."


    [108 Ways to Enhance Affection] No. 43: Never satisfy a woman completely; timely withdrawal will make her more insatiable for you.


    And when you can "control" her emotions, you can also "control" her body....


    ps: This move works especially well on [Action-Oriented Persons] and [Rational Planners].


    Indeed, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s bold declaration, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but laugh in exasperation.


    The strong-willed woman, catalyzed by alcohol and the [Mandragora Love Drug], suddenly stood up, then she gripped her uniform with both hands and yanked it open on both sides with force.


    There was a series of "snap snap!" sounds as silver buttons popped off and her uniform was ripped open straight across!


    She wasn''t wearing anything underneath, so what appeared before Qiu Tu was a streamlined, slender waist and a chest bound by white straps.


    Possibly due to regular exercise, her waist was tight enough to grasp, even her navel was vertical, and her lower abdomen featured smooth mermaid lines.


    Moving upwards, a pair of bulging breasts tightly wrapped in many layers of white straps stood out in stark contrast to her slender waist!


    Even without removing the bindings, it was clear that her size was not small; she could even compare with the beautiful Liu Fuping.


    Qiu Tu admitted that the visual impact at that moment truly shocked him.


    For a moment, he even began to doubt his past aesthetic preference: Was wild beauty really not as good as gentleness like water?


    Shouldn''t men and women both seek health?


    Before he could figure it out, something even more shocking continued.


    Before he could react, Tang Feifei, with her clothes flung open, strode toward him.


    Then she leaned down, looking down at Qiu Tu from above, and asked in a cold voice, "What''s the matter, Chief Qiu, think you got your evaluation wrong?"


    Qiu Tu looked up; the bulging white straps protruded in front of him, and a light floral scent wafted toward him.


    Qiu Tu knew he couldn''t show weakness at this time...


    So, suppressing the pounding in his heart, he raised his hand and snapped his finger against one of the bulging white straps.


    The touch was soft, bouncy, and even quivered.


    Tang Feifei was stunned by Qiu Tu''s brazen action. Clearly, no one had ever dared to do such a thing to her!


    So she looked at Qiu Tu in disbelief.


    After snapping the strap, Qiu Tu realized he might have gone a bit too far, but the sensation on his fingertips still made him feel it was worth it.


    He leaned back slightly, stepping out of the shadow cast by the white straps, and with a smile at the corner of his mouth, he looked at Tang Feifei and said, "Director, I wonder if the Sanctuary has a saying."


    "Play with fire, wet the bed."


    "Hehe...." Tang Feifei found it amusing, "What, are you implying that someone my age would still wet the bed?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes narrowed slightly, full of innuendo, "Do you think adults don''t wet the bed? When adults do it, it can be far more exaggerated~~"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei paused for a moment.


    But, after all, she was a woman who had rubbed shoulders with Liu Fuping and had seen certain scenes, so after a moment''s hesitation, she immediately caught the excessively fast undertone of his words.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a teasing smile, her amber eyes growing brighter.


    "Chief Qiu, it''s not certain yet who will wet the bed."


    "After all.... I''m really getting more interested in you...."


    Having said that, she sat on the desk in front of Qiu Tu without bothering to fix her clothes, legs apart in a domineering posture, and looking down at him, she asked coldly, "Don''t you want the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau in the Security Department?"


    "I can give it to you."


    After speaking, to show her sincerity, she directly grabbed a pen and paper from the desk and began to write names on it swiftly.


    Soon, a dozen names were on the list.


    "I''m in charge of training affairs in the bureau. After careful attention, I have some guesses and understanding of the choices for spies."


    "Here is the departmental list; it should be enough for you to trade with."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took the list and read through it swiftly. Names, genders, and departments were all clearly displayed.


    The highest-ranked spy on the list had risen to the position of a lieutenant and the platoon deputy leader, while the lowest were still ordinary soldiers.


    Although the names were unfamiliar to him, he believed Tang Feifei probably wasn''t deceiving him, given the detail and verifiability of the list.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief.


    Although the process was a bit convoluted, the result turned out to be good eventually.


    It seems the [Lucky Joker Card] is still useful, right?


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu pocketed the list and looked up at Tang Feifei with a smile, "Very good. Now, Director Tang, please state your terms."


    Since Qiu Tu began checking the list, Tang Feifei had been watching him.


    Seeing Qiu Tu looking over, she smiled with delight and said without any hesitation,


    "My condition is that you have to become my man!"


    Qiu Tu was stunned for a second, then without hesitation, he nodded, "Okay, no problem."


    Tang Feifei might not have expected Qiu Tu to agree so readily; she hesitated for a moment and clarified, "I mean... as in a man, my man."


    Qiu Tu continued to nod nonchalantly, "Alright."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu even began to undo the buttons on his own shirt, "Would you like to inspect the goods first?"


    ----


    Today''s update is 12,000 words! Starting tomorrow, updates of 10,000 words every day, and if the performance is good, I will continue with daily 10,000 words!


    New book aiming for the Monthly Ticket Chart, I seek your Monthly Tickets! My thanks!

 Chapter 103 Toying with the Bureau Chief (Looking for Monthly Tickets!)

    While unbuttoning his shirt, Qiu Tu still managed to say to Tang Feifei, with a smile, "Director Tang really overestimated her own charm.""You have a great figure and you''re not bad looking either. You''re also my immediate superior."


    "Being able to weather several storms with you, how could I consider that a condition? It''s clearly something one could only wish for!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu undid his upper garment, revealing his well-built six-pack abs.


    Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, suddenly feeling her interest fade significantly.


    At that moment, she was a bit confused about her own thoughts.


    The prey she had desired was right in front of her, even laying flat, ready for her to do as she pleased, so why did she suddenly find it tasteless?


    Thinking thus, the amber glow in her eyes slowly vanished, and her facial expression gradually returned to indifference.


    Then she got off the table and coldly stopped Qiu Tu''s movements, "That won''t be necessary, I''ll call you when I need you."


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu, as if he had anticipated it, smiled mildly, "Very well. I await Director Tang''s ''summons'' at any time."


    While saying that, he continued to fasten his buttons and headed towards the door.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s expression, Tang Feifei instinctively felt that something was amiss... but she couldn''t pinpoint what it was.


    She hesitated, wanting to call out to Qiu Tu, but then she felt that being so fickle was meaningless, so she eventually stopped herself.


    At the door, upon opening it, Liu Fuping staggered and fell in, landing right into Qiu Tu''s arms ¨C obviously, this beautiful lady had been eavesdropping at the door just a moment ago.


    Still halfway through buttoning his shirt and not fully dressed, Qiu Tu solidly received Liu Fuping''s softness.


    Feeling Qiu Tu''s strong body and smelling that intense masculine scent, Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red.


    Her heart felt ticklish, as if it had been scratched by something, giving her a strange sensation....


    But she knew that now was not the time to think about such frivolous matters, so she quickly brushed her hair back, coloring her face red as she stepped out of Qiu Tu''s embrace, and whispered a soft "Thank you, sir."


    Standing by the dining table, Tang Feifei watched the two interact with a slightly narrowed gaze, feeling even more perplexed.


    But before she had time to ponder, Liu Fuping, who had straightened up, pointed at the two with open shirts, her face a picture of surprise, "You...you guys...."


    After that, she covered her mouth to stifle a giggle, "Isn''t this a bit too fast?"


    Tang Feifei: .....


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Is Qiu Tu the kind of person who lets himself be taken advantage of?


    Of course not.


    So, upon hearing this, he retorted with a smile, "Fast or not, Sister Liu would know if she tried, right? Why bother with trying to goad me here?"


    Liu Fuping''s face turned red, and she spat at Qiu Tu, "You''re so improper!"


    After that, she shook off Qiu Tu''s hand and walked back to the dining table with a flirtatious sway of her hips, smiling all the while.


    After that, things simplified. With all three of them calmed down, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei discussed the details of their cooperation at length.


    Thanks to Qiu Tu''s prior groundwork, they quickly reached a consensus.


    The Security Department would take charge of investigating Vice President Tian''s collusion with United Front, while also dealing with the forces and support behind Tian.


    Tang Feifei would apply for an investigation to the Sanctuary on the grounds of Jia Shu''s dereliction of duty and silencing a critical suspect, and restrict Jia Shu''s actions.


    Qiu Tu would pursue the real culprit behind the case and mediate between all sides.


    All parties would start preparations after returning home tonight, and then stage a concentrated operation in the next two days.


    Soon after the cooperation was settled, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei shook hands and then left Liu Fuping''s house.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Tang Feifei''s brows were tightly furrowed, as if grappling with an unfathomable dilemma.


    Liu Fuping, after seeing off Qiu Tu, came back to find Tang Feifei looking just like that.


    She thought Tang Feifei was jealous because of the few jokes Qiu Tu had made with her that day, so she slinked up to Tang Feifei, wrapping her arms around her, and asked in a sweet voice, "What''s the matter? Director? Not happy?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei glanced sideways at Liu Fuping, and then asked, "What do you think of Qiu Tu as a person?"


    Liu Fuping thought for a moment, resting her chin on her hand, and gave a fairly balanced assessment, "I think Chief Qiu is not a bad guy. Even though he commonly throws around flirty comments, he actually behaves in quite a measured way."


    "Also, he is protective of his subordinates and has some....."


    Tang Feifei didn''t hear what Liu Fuping said after that. Liu Fuping''s first statement struck her like lightning across the sky of her thoughts!


    ''Commonly throws around flirty comments, but behaves in quite a measured way?!''


    At that moment, Tang Feifei suddenly realized what had been off about her impression!


    Right, upon reflecting on her past exchanges with Qiu Tu. It was clear that Qiu Tu was a master of understanding human nature.


    Whether it was guiding conversations or gauging people''s hearts, he had considerable skill.


    How could such a person fail to see through her little ploy just now?!


    He could''ve just been a bit more persistent, or feigned reluctance, and she would have gone along with his desire, and shared a passionate encounter with him!


    Instead, he purposely agreed and even proactively began to undress!


    This was a clear indication that he had seen through her, but he didn''t actually want things to escalate, so he was intentionally refusing her!


    With this realization, everything that had happened just then fell into place for Tang Feifei!


    No wonder Qiu Tu, after helping her cool down, had gone to open the door for Liu Fuping ¨C to prevent her from losing control again and potentially forcing herself on him, thus bringing in a third party to control the situation.


    No wonder Qiu Tu was joking in such an unseemly way with Liu Fuping ¨C to help cool her down again and continue to reinforce his "persona"!


    ''Interesting... very interesting!''


    Tang Feifei, having figured everything out, couldn''t help but curve her lips into a smile, her pupils also slowly shifting back to a clear amber.


    Perhaps because the image of Qiu Tu that lingered in her mind was too enticing, she once again felt like she had discovered delectable prey!


    She felt that Qiu Tu was simply the most interesting man... no, person¡ªincluding women¡ªshe had ever met, and he suited her tastes best.....


    Since her birth up to now, she had never met such an intriguing man!


    She... was truly aroused with the desire to hunt!


    At that moment... Liu Fuping also noticed the change in Tang Feifei''s pupils, knowing that this was a sign that appeared after Tang Feifei was emotionally stirred.


    So, she gently leaned in close to Tang Feifei, whispering softly into her ear, "Stay with me tonight?"


    Tang Feifei, hearing this, snapped back to reality.


    A brilliant smile suddenly broke across her wheat-colored face, then she declared firmly, "No!"


    "I need to go back and study the cooperation with Qiu Tu first!"


    Having said that, she pushed Liu Fuping aside, fastened the buttons of her uniform, and, wearing her riding boots, took long strides to leave Liu Fuping''s home.


    Staring blankly at Tang Feifei''s retreating figure, filled with both wildness and beauty, Liu Fuping''s mouth hung open, stunned for several seconds.


    Only when the door closed did Liu Fuping gradually come back to her senses.


    What just happened?


    Was she rejected?


    Liu Fuping was a bit incredulous.


    And thinking back on what Tang Feifei had just said, she felt like... like she was the unnamed character in a movie for three, without a name of her own!


    Moreover....


    Looking at the closed door, she was somewhat frantic:


    Qiu Tu was someone she had met first! And she was the first to flirt with him!


    Tang Feifei was her woman! And they had spent the most time together!


    How, how... now she was the only one left?! S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What was going on! The world changed too fast, didn''t it?!


    .....


    At the same time, having left Liu Fuping''s place, Qiu Tu drove while recalling the sharp exchange he had with Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei wasn''t wrong, he had indeed figured out her personality, so he had indeed retreated in order to advance, deliberately rejecting Tang Feifei.


    There were two reasons:


    First was... the effects of the Mandragora Love Drug were about to end.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if any accidents would occur if they were in the middle of something and the effects of the Cataclysmic Potion suddenly wore off.


    Therefore, he simply rejected Tang Feifei early on, letting her mistakenly believe it was her "compliant" behavior that made her lose interest, thereby covering up the process of the Mandragora Love Drug''s effects wearing off.


    Second was... for a strong, wild woman like Tang Feifei.


    Only by keeping her interested, then disappointed, then interested again, and disappointed again, constantly swinging her emotions, could she fall deeper and deeper!


    The old saying goes: A wife is not as good as a concubine, a concubine is not as good as a secret lover, and a secret lover is not as good as one you cannot have....


    Only by constant pull and release, reeling in and letting out, can one truly control such a wild and strong woman!


    While silently summarizing his strategy for dealing with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu also took out a special Communicator from the Security Department, and made a call to Qin Shuman.


    When the call connected, Qiu Tu asked concisely while driving, "Where are you? I need to see you for something."


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman reported a room number without any hesitation: Milan Grand Hotel, room 401.


    The sons and daughters of the covert United Front always acted directly, without dragging their feet.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu stepped on the accelerator towards the Milan Grand Hotel.


    The night lights of Xinjie City were dim, and the streets were sparsely populated, so it only took Qiu Tu a little over twenty minutes to reach the Milan Grand Hotel.


    After parking his car, he went up to the floor indicated by Qin Shuman''s room number and took the elevator in silence.


    Standing in front of room 401, Qiu Tu prepared to knock, but before his hand could touch the door, it swung open on its own.


    Qin Shuman stood at the doorway with hands behind her back, smiling charmingly.


    Today, she was using the body of Yan Chen''s mistress, "Qin Shuman."


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman smiled and said, "I actually needed to see you too, I didn''t expect our minds to be so in sync~"


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, slammed the door shut with a "bang!" and then swept Qin Shuman up into his arms and charged into the room.


    Qin Shuman was startled, her hands patting Qiu Tu''s back while she cried out frantically, "Wait, wait a minute!"


    Just like the first time something happened between them, Qiu Tu threw her onto the bed and said in a deep voice, "I can''t wait."....


    .....


    ...


    40 minutes later.


    Qiu Tu, smoking a cigarette and embracing Qin Shuman, asked, "You said you had something to discuss? What is it?"


    -------

 Chapter 104 My Waist is Almost Broken (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, who felt as limp as water in his arms, felt her entire world wasn''t right anymore.What kind of good person doesn''t say a word and starts with a 40-minute exercise up front!


    After such a long exercise, how could she have any energy left to talk to him about things!


    So tiring!


    Thinking like this, inexplicably, Qin Shuman started to get a little petulant like a young girl. She turned around, with her back to Qiu Tu, refusing to pay him any attention.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t annoyed. He reached out and touched her smooth back, pinching here, tapping there.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu seemed to discover something astonishing, and exclaimed in surprise, "Eh? How come you''re back in ''Qin Shuman''s'' body again?"


    "Has the Treasure''s effect worn off, or did you do it on purpose?"


    After he spoke, he paused, then added, "Can you still return to ''Rain Butterfly''s'' body like this?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s series of questions, Qin Shuman sat up angrily, saying irritably, "That''s exactly what I wanted to talk to you about!"


    After speaking, Qin Shuman also felt like she was a bit whiny.


    So she calmed herself down and regained her composure as the head of the Investigation Department. Only then did she touch the body she was in now and said, "Ever since the day you forcefully disabled my ability, I''ve discovered something magical."


    "Even when my soul leaves, ''Qin Shuman''s'' body astonishingly doesn''t decay, doesn''t die."


    "I found this phenomenon very interesting, so I tried soaking her in nutrient fluid, or feeding her liquid food, then monitoring her with equipment."


    "As a result, I found that this body has been maintaining vital signs all along."


    "It''s like an empty shell without a soul, but all the body parts are autonomously functioning!"


    As she said this, Qin Shuman was clearly a bit excited.


    She said, "So, I had a bold idea. What if I could use her as my second body for a long time!"


    "That''s why tonight I tried to possess this body again."


    "Sure enough, it was just as I expected. I''ve become ''Qin Shuman'' again. Moreover... this time, I can switch bodies freely and don''t need you to disable my ability anymore."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu sat up in surprise.


    Qin Shuman''s discovery was crucial.


    If ''Qin Shuman''s'' body is an empty shell without a soul that can be occupied by a new soul or exists independently of one...


    Then... could ''Qiu Tu''s'' body be the same?


    And could it be because of this that Qiu Tu was able to traverse here and enter this body?!


    Then the question arises.


    What exactly did "Qiu Tu" and "Qin Shuman" experience that day to create such weird shells that could exist separately from their souls?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "Have you figured out what happened the day we... possessed?"


    Qin Shuman heard this and shook her head slightly.


    She said, "These past few days, I''ve also sent people to search for clues. But... there''s nothing noteworthy."


    She paused for a moment before adding, "So... I''m now suspecting that what happened to us that day might not be related to the physical world."


    "It could be related to the non-physical realm."


    As she spoke, she pointed upwards, "It''s very possible that some strange change occurred in the non-physical realm that day, affecting us, which led to this situation."


    ''Some strange change in the non-physical world?''


    Qiu Tu repeated Qin Shuman''s words in his heart, and for some reason, thought of the ''God'' that the suit man had mentioned.


    Could it have something to do with that ''God''?


    Somehow... Qiu Tu always felt that Xinjie City seemed to be in the midst of some massive storm vortex...


    After discussing Qin Shuman''s matter, Qin Shuman naturally asked Qiu Tu what he wanted with her.


    Qiu Tu didn''t hide anything, proudly taking out the list from his pocket with the names of the spies in the military for the Investigation Bureau.


    Seeing this detailed list, Qin Shuman was thrilled!


    The biggest pressures for Qin Shuman recently were two things: one was to solve the "Yin Caimei case" for Qiu Tu. The other was... the safety of the spies planted by the Security Department within the Investigation Bureau.


    She was still working on the first issue, and the second... she had been trying hard but to no avail! She never expected Qiu Tu to have solved it for her!


    With this resolution, where could Qin Shuman find any reason to be upset, proceeding to reward Qiu Tu heartily...


    [7 days (The time to close the Yin Caimei case)]


    [4 days (The danger lurking in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next day was the weekend, no work.


    It was the day Qiu Tu and Chief Huang of the Logistics Equipment Department had arranged to go to the horse racing club at the Feicui City Residence.


    Early in the morning, Qiu Tu returned home to his small abode on Old Alley Street, satisfied.


    When he got home, Shen Lingshuang was already awake, washing clothes.


    When she heard Qiu Tu return, she came out of the bathroom, with panda eyes glaring at Qiu Tu, muttering bitterly, "You dog of a man... not coming home all night. You must have been out fooling around..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled faintly as he changed into his casual clothes and casually retorted, "That''s slander, you know!"


    "I definitely didn''t go out fooling around."


    "A friend''s cat had two kittens, and she asked me to help take care of them. But who knew, when I got to her place, she ended up washing my shoes and laundering my clothes."


    "I couldn''t very well go home naked, could I?"


    "So I had no choice but to wait for my clothes to dry before coming back!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s story that didn''t have a shred of credibility, Shen Lingshuang was going crazy, "You''re trying to fool a ghost here!"


    "Go out on the street and ask anyone you drag in; who would believe that?"


    "I believe..." As they were talking, a large, simple-looking head popped in from the door.


    It was none other than Ah-Tai.


    Seeing the two of them, he flashed a toothy grin, then said, "Brother Tu really is such a kind-hearted person."


    "I remember one time when I was a kid, the wife of some big shot had a plumbing issue at home, and he was called to help. It took him all night to fix it, too."


    Shen Lingshuang: ??


    Is this really a defense?!


    By that time, Qiu Tu had changed into his clothes, and with a laugh, he patted Shen Lingshuang on the head, picked up her face, and kissed it, before leaving the house arm-in-arm with Ah-Tai.


    All that was left was Shen Lingshuang with a flushed face, bubbles popping over her head... she had completely forgotten to be angry...


    Easy-peasy!


    Having left the house and arrived at his car, Qiu Tu''s core team members: Eagle, Ah-Kun, several confidants from the Political Department: Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and even Fang Ming, with whom he often collaborated, had all arrived.


    These individuals had been briefed extensively over a period of time and knew each other''s identities, so they were all casually smoking and chatting.


    All of them were dressed in uniforms of the Political Department and the Special Service Department, and each was armed with a gun, making the ordinary citizens of Old Alley Street quickly detour to avoid stirring trouble with this fearsome group.


    And yet, this gang of fearsome figures promptly extinguished their cigarettes and greeted Qiu Tu in unison when they saw him approach: "Brother Tu!" "Brother Tu!" "Chief!" "Chief." "Chief Qiu."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and nodded, "Looks like everyone''s here."


    After speaking, he looked around at the group.


    This was the powerful team he had put together over half a month, and they were also key to the success of today''s mission!


    That''s right, after a detailed discussion with Qin Shuman the previous night, Qiu Tu felt... investigating cases and making arrests should be done sooner rather than later.


    Since Yan Chen had already handed over both the "Authorization Letter" and the "Special Arrest Warrant" to him, the best course was to strike with a surprise attack while the news had not yet fully spread!


    Capture Qian Dafu, capture those few transports, capture Vice President Tian, capture Third Brother Qin, capture Director Qin (second house)¡ªand then interrogate them slowly!


    For Vice President Tian, it''s inconvenient for Qiu Tu to take action, no problem. Qin Shuman can do it!


    With the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau inside The military and the leads and intelligence on the connections between the Qin family, Vice President Tian, and the United Front provided by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman is confident that her boss, Security Department Chief Dai Yukang, would be interested.


    Moreover, compared to the intricate ties between City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and local forces, The military tends to be more independent and autonomous, without the need to look back and forth!


    Thus, The military often represents the last line of defense for the cities in the Planning Area!


    Therefore, those the Investigation Bureau dares not arrest, the Security Department dares to arrest! The cases that Qiu Tu finds challenging, the Security Department can help handle!


    With the backing Qin Shuman gave him, the pressure Tang Feifei withstood from Jia Shu, and the "wrongly given" unlimited authorization from Yan Chen.


    Qiu Tu was brimming with confidence today, determined to turn Xinjie City upside down!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had snapped back to the present, proceeded to distribute today''s plan to Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, and Fang Ming.


    Actually, before calling these few men here, Qiu Tu hadn''t informed them of what he intended to do today.


    So when they saw the arrest orders and various authorization documents personally signed by Qiu Tu, they were all astonished.


    Even Fang Ming, who had witnessed some grand scenes with his elders, looked at Qiu Tu with a bewildered face, and hesitatingly asked, "Arrest Director Qin? Third Master Qin? And even a few big businessmen?"


    "Chief Qiu, won''t this cause too much of a fuss?" sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this, he paused, then continued, "Moreover... that is the Deputy Division Chief after all."


    "Although the ''Special Arrest Warrant'' allows for the arrest of anyone below Director level."


    "But... he''s still one of us from the Investigation Bureau, should we not check with the higher-ups first?"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and patted him on the shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry, I have everything arranged."


    "Just follow the plan and make the arrest, bet he''ll even thank you when you slap on the handcuffs."


    Fang Ming: ??


    For a moment, Fang Ming almost thought he had misheard.


    He was supposed to arrest Director Qin and Director Qin would actually thank him?


    Had he gone mad, or had Qiu Tu lost his mind?


    For a while, Fang Ming felt utterly confused.


    But compared with Fang Ming, who wasn''t yet one of the confidants, the rest of the men were far more composed.


    Individuals like Eagle and Ah-Kun, with loyalty levels exceeding 90 points, listened to whatever Qiu Tu said without a second thought.


    And for Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu, the new batch of confidants whose loyalty had skyrocketed to around 70.


    -------


    This chapter was blocked, and I''ve edited it out. Then I put the rest of it in the comment of this chapter... Everyone can check it out in the comment. Also, I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 105 High Society (Seeking Subscriptions 1w2!)

    Although they were not as blindly loyal as the former, but... after having witnessed Qiu Tu''s capability to manipulate political situations and wield power within the Political Department, they were more inclined to trust Qiu Tu even if they harbored a hint of doubt.Only Ah-Tai... well, he was just plain naive.


    If it weren''t for the sake of earning him some merit, and the fact that he was now sticking to Fang Ming like glue ¡ª to the point where Fang Ming couldn''t shake him off while working ¡ª Qiu Tu would not have wanted to bring him along today.


    So, after Qiu Tu had assigned their tasks, he split the seven people into several teams and gathered the personnel in preparation to set off.


    In order to keep the entire plan confidential, Qiu Tu did not even allow them to summon personnel using official commands but instead used team building and social events as cover.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had thoroughly calculated the manpower required for the entire capture plan the night before. The combination of the investigation team and Fang Ming''s squad, consisting of over thirty agents, was more than sufficient.


    After all, most of those caught by the Political Department were merely ordinary businessmen. If they approached with weapons and arrest warrants, the targets wouldn''t oppose the entire Sanctuary system unless they wished to resist; otherwise, they could only comply meekly.


    The reason for assembling Fang Ming''s squad was merely to guard against the private armed forces of powerful and influential families like the Qin Family¡­


    After arranging everything and watching these confidants scatter in all directions, Qiu Tu drove off towards Emerald Fort while humming a tune.


    To deceive the enemy, Qiu Tu would spend the entire day today within Emerald Fort.


    He could only begrudgingly watch horse races, sing, play sports, rub shoulders with the elite and famous socialites ¡ª indulging in extravagance without a moment''s rest....


    Every time he thought about the hardships of today, Qiu Tu felt unspeakably sad ¡ª so much so that the corners of his mouth curled up.


    ...


    Emerald Fort, also known as the old Xinjie military camp. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was originally built by Major General Ye while stationed in Xinjie City as a defense against attacks from the Anti-government Armed Forces.


    The fort encompassed an area of 0.08 square kilometers.


    After the establishment of Xinjie City, when the military moved to a new camp, the old grounds were sold to several big businessmen of the Sanctuary.


    After more than a year of renovation and rebuilding by those businessmen, it had become the largest den of iniquity around Xinjie City and the most fervently sought after social hub for the higher echelons from surrounding cities.


    The place hosted all sorts of legal and above-board entertainment facilities such as a racetrack, an octagon cage, a nightclub, and a casino.


    Qiu Tu had often heard about this famous place but had never been there. Today was his first visit.


    As he drove up to the outskirts of Emerald Fort, Qiu Tu didn''t encounter any inspections ¡ª in a Planning Area, a private car in itself was proof of identity.


    Following the smooth roads around the fort, guided by signs by the roadside, Qiu Tu drove straight into the parking lot of the fort.


    Private cars, scarcely seen on the roads of the Planning Area, filled more than half of the parking lot here. The sight was truly staggering.


    After parking and turning off the ignition, Qiu Tu stepped out of the car only to hear an enthusiastic greeting, "Chief Qiu! Over here! Chief Qiu!"


    Hearing the call, Qiu Tu looked up and saw Chief Huang from Logistics and Equipment walking towards him.


    His face was sporting an even warmer smile than a few days ago. Coming up to Qiu Tu, he gave a hearty pat on Qiu Tu''s arm and joked, "I was beginning to think you wouldn''t make it today."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Why would you say that, Brother Huang? Why would I possibly stand you up when we had an arrangement?"


    Chief Huang squinted with a smile, "Are you still hiding things from me, Younger Brother Qiu?"


    He said in a lower voice, "The news that the Bureau Chief signed your ''Authorization Letter'' and ''Special Arrest Warrant'' has almost spread throughout the bureau~~"


    "Who knew if you might be apprehending people this weekend...."


    As soon as Qiu Tu heard this, he understood immediately why Chief Huang was so enthusiastic today.


    So, it was because he knew that Qiu Tu had the "Imperial Sword" in hand.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also replied smilingly, "You''re joking, Brother. Work is work, relaxation is relaxation."


    "Today is the weekend, how could I possibly be busy with work!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Chief Huang immediately let out a hearty laugh. He patted Qiu Tu and said jokingly, "I''ve long heard from Old Zheng that you hate overtime and always leave on time every day!"


    "Now seeing you, it seems it''s indeed the case!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu was also laughing, Chief Huang changed his tone and said with a chuckle, "But you''re right. Work is work, relaxation is relaxation!"


    "Come on! Let me introduce you to a few friends!"


    As Qiu Tu was there today to blindside the enemy and gather information, he immediately followed up on Chief Huang''s offer, "You can''t just introduce me to a few friends, Brother. You said today you''d show me the world."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chief Huang immediately made an "I understand" expression, "Don''t worry, today I''ll definitely broaden your horizons."


    Qiu Tu''s smile grew wider.


    As the most well-known and central attraction of Emerald Fort, the first place Chief Huang took Qiu Tu was the racetrack.


    The racecourse was built at the heart of the Emerald Fort, or rather, all other facilities were constructed around the racecourse.


    Because the guests were all either rich or noble, this racecourse wasn''t an open-air venue like the ones Qiu Tu remembered from his previous life, but instead, consisted of layer upon layer of enclosed observation decks.


    The observation decks protruded into the racecourse, with one side being the entrance, and the other three sides were 270-degree panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, making it exceptionally spectacular and grand.


    Upon reaching the fourth-floor observation deck, Chief Huang naturally introduced Qiu Tu to the setup, "The whole racecourse has three levels of observation decks, located on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors respectively."


    "The fourth floor, like here, is where staff members like us, deputy staff, lieutenants, captains, and wealthy businessmen watch the horse races."


    "The fifth floor is where the directors, deputy directors, major, lieutenant colonels, and some big businessmen from the Sanctuary visit."


    "As for the topmost... the sixth floor, it''s where those big shots standing at the top of various cities are located."


    "Like the commissioners from City Hall, the Deputy Directors from the Investigation Bureau, and the colonels from the military. Even... those three highest-ranking officials, they all take their seats on the sixth floor."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly upon hearing this, indicating that he understood.


    After introducing the entire situation of the observation decks, Chief Huang led Qiu Tu to the refreshments area to each get a cup of wine, then they quietly sipped and whispered introductions to a few people on the fourth floor who were watching the horse races.


    "That tall, large young man is a captain from the military, surnamed Zhang, currently commanding a battalion."


    "He is a local from Xinjie. When General Ye was stationed in Xinjie, he was one of the first to side with him and helped General Ye eradicate the entire underground forces of Xinjie City."


    "Therefore, when Xinjie City was established, and General Ye reorganized the military, he was also recruited and given key training."


    "However... he''s a bit of a gambler, often losing his entire salary."


    At this point, Chief Huang added in a quiet voice, "So, if he asks you to lend him money, never agree to it."


    Qiu Tu looked deeply at the Captain Zhang mentioned, nodding slightly.


    Seeing this, Chief Huang then pointed to a young woman on the left, "That one is Section Chief Bai from the Household Registration Division of the Civil Affairs Bureau at City Hall."


    "Her father is a commissioner at City Hall, and her husband is a major businessman in Xinjie, mainly in charge of intercity transportation."


    "But I heard it''s been rough recently, with a lot of family wealth lost, which has also weakened her position at City Hall."


    Qiu Tu paused on the young woman for a moment, thinking that her looks were above average, but she had a unique charm.


    Next, Chief Huang briefly introduced Qiu Tu to a few other guests on the fourth floor.


    They were all middle-level officials with the rank of staff member or deputy staff member. Some were from Xinjie City, and some from neighboring cities. At their level, they could be hugely influential within their departments, but here, they were as common as cabbages...


    In the meantime, several people took the elevator past the fourth floor, heading to either the fifth or the sixth floor.


    Astonishingly, there were quite a few acquaintances among them, including the head of the Qin Family, Commissioner Qin Heng, Vice Minister Wen from the Special Service Department, and Director Wang from the Public Security Bureau...


    Even during this time, Qiu Tu spotted Old Bai, Jia Shu, and Tang Feifei dressed in plain clothes.


    When Old Bai realized that Qiu Tu had also come to the Emerald Fort, he was slightly surprised, but the next second he immersed himself back into his character: he coldly ignored Qiu Tu, but just as the elevator doors were about to close, he winked at Qiu Tu.


    As for Jia Shu and Tang Feifei...


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Jia Shu''s face first revealed a hint of surprise, then he quickly resumed his mocking smile, as if pondering over some amusing matter...


    And although Tang Feifei remained stoic from beginning to end, the flickering amber glow returning to her eyes indicated that Qiu Tu had once again become the focus of her attention...


    ''This world is really small...'' Qiu Tu silently reflected to himself, and then Chief Huang dragged him off to meet some friends.


    According to him, there were quite a few people who wanted to meet Qiu Tu today, to get acquainted with the newly risen star at the Investigation Bureau!


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    While Qiu Tu was enjoying life... ah, no, while he was distracting the enemy.


    Ah-Tai, Eagle, and several teams were also fully assembled and began to carry out their plan...


    Since Ah-Tai and Eagle didn''t have arrest authority, the team leader for this operation was Chen Feng.


    The target of the arrest was the most important suspect, the major businessman entangled with the Qin Family: Qian Dafu.


    Arriving near Qian Dafu''s residence, the group began implementing their control plan according to the strategy.


    -----


    The last chapter was blocked... just unblocked.


    Updated with 4 chapters totaling 12,000 words! Requesting Monthly Tickets! Explosive updates during the new book launch, 10,000 words daily! Please vote with a Monthly Ticket and follow the updates every day! Thank you!

 Chapter 106 Madam, You Wouldnt Want Your Husband... (10k for Monthly Ticket)

    As a locally well-known businessman in Xinjie City, Qian Dafu didn''t have the qualification to live in core villa areas like Longshan Road, but he resided in a nearby, smaller cluster of villas.This cluster of small villas was under the influence of Longshan Road, ensuring security and a relatively complete set of public facilities.


    Moreover, with good greening...


    It was especially suitable for concealment. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, just outside Qian Dafu''s small villa,


    Chen Feng and Eagle were squatting behind a tree, holding a villa floor plan, discussing the arrangements for the surveillance.


    Chen Feng, "The villa has three floors in total, with front and back doors."


    "There are eight windows on the east and west sides."


    "To prevent the target from escaping, we''d better first position six detectives on each side, and then have three detectives enter through the front door."


    Eagle nodded and replied, "According to intelligence, though Qian Dafu runs a transportation company and maintains a group of thugs and some private armed forces, for convenience, he usually has only two armed bodyguards for personal protection."


    "Three armed detectives entering, six detectives staking out outside, that''s more than enough to disarm the opposition and take Qian Dafu away."


    "Unless Qian Dafu plans to openly oppose the Investigation Bureau, he won''t order his bodyguards to shoot."


    "You''re right, but even if he orders his bodyguards to take action, with my hammer, I can knock him out at any time."


    "Hmm... relying on the hammer might be a bit overconfident, it''s still best to use guns. We can arrange... wait, Brother Ted, when did you get here?!"


    Eagle had initially been earnestly responding to questions, but halfway through, he sensed something was off.


    Turning his head, he discovered Ah-Tai''s simple-minded head had appeared above him and Chen Feng, inconspicuously joining their conversation.


    Hearing Eagle''s question, Ah-Tai excitedly bounced the small hammer in his hand and said, "Oh, I was just a bit bored waiting, so I came over to see if there was anything I could help with!"


    Eagle and Chen Feng exchanged a glance, both feeling a bit helpless.


    Eagle reassured him, "Brother Ted, there''s nothing here that needs your help; what you need to do now is to keep an eye on those detectives from the Special Service Department."


    "After all, they''re not one of us and are not completely trustworthy."


    "So, make absolutely sure they don''t leak any information."


    With understanding dawning on his face, Ah-Tai brandished his small hammer menacingly and declared, "Don''t worry! I''ll keep a close watch on them; they won''t spoil Brother Tu''s big plans!"


    After speaking, he tucked his small hammer at his waist and strode towards the group of Special Service Detectives not far away.


    With his fierce demeanor, he looked quite ready to randomly knock someone out for a bit of fun.


    Therefore, Chen Feng couldn''t help but ask Eagle with a bit of concern, "Is everything really okay?"


    Eagle shook his head, unconcerned, and said, "It''s fine. Brother Ted has always been like this."


    "Don''t worry, he has the charm of being ready to take you down at any moment, yet also being able to mess around with you like a brother."


    As he spoke, the group of Special Service Detectives indeed started jovially horsing around with the grim Ah-Tai, like brothers...


    Chen Feng:....


    ''The people around the boss are never simple indeed....''


    With this thought, Chen Feng shifted his attention back and once again started confirming the capture details with Eagle...


    To ensure not to alarm the prey, Qiu Tu had devised a plan for the groups to make their captures at a coordinated time.


    They were to wait until all targets were controlled before taking action, unless the target posed a risk of fleeing beforehand.


    Therefore, they had plenty of time to get into position.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at Emerald Fort, fourth floor southeast corner of the horse racing grandstand,


    There, Qiu Tu also met the friend mentioned by Chief Huang.


    As expected, they were all medium-ranking officials and wealthy businessmen with power in Xinjie City.


    From the Department of Education, Preparatory and Schooling Section: Section Chief Kong.


    Department of Environment and Sanitation, Public Works Section: Deputy Section Chief Zhuang.


    Department of Commerce and Economic Development, Investment Promotion Section: Deputy Section Chief Yuan.


    From the Investigation Bureau, Public Security Bureau, Security Patrol Section: Section Chief Xin.


    There were also several captains and lieutenants from the military; moreover, wealthy businessmen from sectors such as department stores and food.


    It could be said that every single one of them was a significant figure with the power to make rules within a domain of Xinjie City.


    Among these, the most noteworthy for Qiu Tu were several section chiefs and deputy staff chiefs from the City Hall.


    Not because they held high positions or great power, but because... after getting acquainted with Qiu Tu, they were quite proactive and enthusiastic in chatting with him, and between the lines, they also probed for progress on the "Yin Caimei case."


    Qiu Tu did not know whether it was their own initiative or if someone was directing them from behind.


    But still, he quietly took note of their names in his "little book" to consider bringing them in for questioning if given the chance...


    As others were busy trying to make Qiu Tu''s acquaintance and Qiu Tu was busy listing them, a new round of horse racing had started.


    As one of the oldest sports in human history, horse racing has different forms in each era.


    The rules at Emerald Fort were similar to those of Fragrant River in the past life: flat obstacle racing with jockeys riding.


    This also brought new star horses and jockeys into the limelight each month.


    However, Qiu Tu had no interest in such "sophisticated" entertainment, so after symbolically laying down 1 Silver Yuan, he sat in a chair to the side, watching the excited crowd to pass the time.


    Perhaps, as Chief Huang had mentioned, Qiu Tu was indeed becoming a well-known figure in the political and business circles of Xinjie City, with many wishing to network with him.

 Chapter 106 Madam, You Wouldnt Want Your Husband... (10k for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, he had just been alone for a dozen or so seconds when a woman''s voice, as pleasant as an oriole''s, sounded by his ear, "Chief Qiu, may I have a chat with you?"Upon hearing that voice, Qiu Tu looked up curiously and saw a somewhat familiar-looking young matron standing respectfully before him with a glass of wine in hand.


    The young matron''s appearance could only be considered slightly above average, but she had a unique air about her of a well-bred lady, which was quite memorable.


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a second before recognizing the woman in front of him as Chief Bai from the Civil Affairs Bureau, introduced to him just a moment ago by Chief Huang.


    It goes without saying that Qiu Tu would not refuse the request of a beautiful woman, so he smiled and nodded, "Of course, Chief Bai."


    When the young matron heard Qiu Tu addressing her by her position, she appeared quite surprised.


    She gave a soft smile, "Chief Qiu actually knows who I am?"


    She pondered for a moment, then asked tentatively, "Was it Chief Huang who introduced me, perhaps?"


    Although the woman was in her thirties, she might have been well-protected, hence even the vulnerability she exuded didn''t seem uncomfortable despite appearing naive.


    Qiu Tu became even more intrigued by the woman before him with her unique demeanor.


    So he smiled, shaking his head, "No."


    "Your husband is on my list of suspects."


    As soon as Qiu Tu''s words fell, the young matron''s body stiffened, and she even struggled to control her expression.


    She forced a laugh, "You''re joking."


    But Qiu Tu merely smiled, and although he didn''t repeat himself, his expression could not have been clearer: he wasn''t joking¡­


    Actually, right after Chief Huang had introduced this young matron, mentioning that her father was a deputy commissioner at City Hall, and her husband was a wealthy transportation businessman, Qiu Tu had felt a sense of familiarity.


    But since he was listening to Chief Huang at the time, he didn''t have the chance to contemplate it further.


    But when he later matched her with the list of names of transportation businessmen in his mind, he immediately knew her identity: Mrs. Bai Ru, wife of Qian Dafu.


    And Bai Ru''s father, Qian Dafu''s father-in-law, was not someone else but the right-hand man of the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Commissioner Qin Heng of the Civil Affairs Bureau, Deputy Commissioner Bai Yongdong...


    Once all these relationships were matched up, Qiu Tu had only one feeling: Xinjie City was really too small. So small that any random encounter could mean intertwined connections...


    Meanwhile, Bai Ru also realized that Qiu Tu''s expression was no pretense, so she stood there, the smile on her face growing more and more rigid.


    Finally, after two seconds, she gave an awkward smile to Qiu Tu and said, "It seems I am intruding. Sorry to bother you, Chief Qiu." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having said that, she turned around hastily to leave.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu suddenly called out to her, "Wait a minute. Chief Bai, you must have had something you wanted to discuss with me, right?"


    "Since you''ve already brought it up, why not finish what you have to say before you go?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru paused.


    She turned around to look at Qiu Tu. Then she saw him pat the spot next to him, gesturing for her to sit down and chat...


    Bai Ru''s face was evidently conflicted, but after hesitating for a moment, she still walked over to where Qiu Tu was and sat down.


    The viewing platform had only benches without individual seats, so after Bai Ru sat down, she found herself rather close to Qiu Tu.


    She intended to shift her position slightly, but just then, Qiu Tu suddenly placed a hand on her fair thigh, asking nonchalantly, "What did Chief Bai want to talk to me about?"


    Bai Ru was dressed in a casual short skirt that day, so the touch was slippery and soft.


    Bai Ru hadn''t expected Qiu Tu to be so bold and reckless; startled, she quickly moved her leg away.


    Qiu Tu didn''t seem to mind and naturally withdrew his hand, then casually broached a topic, "Are you familiar with Chief Huang, Chief Bai?"


    Bai Ru was still in shock. Suddenly hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she was momentarily confused. Her attention pulled back, she stuttered, "Just, just aware, from before..."


    Qiu Tu didn''t wait for her to elaborate and simply nodded, then asked offhandedly, "Are you acquainted with Section Chief Kong from the Education Bureau, Chief Bai?"


    Bai Ru was taken aback by the abruptness of Qiu Tu''s question, pausing for a second, "I''ve just seen him a few times, since we are, after all, in the same building..."


    Qiu Tu interrupted her, "By the way, does Chief Bai know Chief Xin?"


    Bai Ru, "Yes, I know him... I and he..."


    The several contacts Qiu Tu mentioned were all the "new friends" that Chief Huang had introduced to him.


    While Qiu Tu and Bai Ru were having casual conversation, they were near the floor-to-ceiling windows not far from the observation deck, cheering for the racehorses they each supported.


    So, every time Qiu Tu asked about someone, Bai Ru couldn''t help but glance at that person before answering Qiu Tu''s question.


    And because Qiu Tu''s questions were quick, and he frequently interrupted Bai Ru, her answers became increasingly rapid, to the point where she had almost no time to think.


    After four or five rounds of rapid-fire questioning, that''s how it went.


    Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "What''s the relationship between Chief Bai and Commissioner Qin?"


    Almost without thinking, Bai Ru reflexively responded swiftly, "Commissioner Qin is my father''s boss."


    "My father has always been grateful for the kindness he received from Old Master Qin in the past, so he often pays visits during holidays to the Qin family."


    "I''ve also been a few times and met Commissioner Qin on several occasions."


    "Before Xinjie City was established, Old Master Qin had already arranged for Commissioner Qin to take over, and then he approached my father, saying he could help him seek a position, but he needed him to..."


    Halting halfway through her sentence, Bai Ru finally realized that she might have let a major secret slip. She quickly covered her mouth, looking at Qiu Tu with a panicked expression.


    Qiu Tu''s expression, however, hadn''t changed much.


    Having learned about Bai Ru''s family and after talking to Bai Ru, Qiu Tu quickly realized that Bai Ru was one of the 12 types of women recorded in the "Emotional Fraud Manual" as a typical "Inner Protector."


    Such women, entirely different from the "Action-Oriented Person" like Tang Feifei, have distinguishing characteristics: they''re weak, compliant, and easily subdued by the strong.


    They mostly come from privileged family backgrounds, have been overprotected since childhood, and coupled with their parents'' dominant personalities, they gradually develop this tender character.


    The "Emotional Handbook" also outlines how to deal with such women. The simplest method is: be assertive, assertive, and then more assertive.


    That''s why Qiu Tu took control:


    Once he confirmed that Bai Ru needed something from him, he assertively made physical contact; he assertively controlled the conversation with rapid questions and answers and directly intimidated Bai Ru.


    And sure enough, under such assertive pressure from Qiu Tu, Bai Ru was utterly disarmed, barely able to muster any defense.


    In just a few words, Qiu Tu fished out a lot of information from her.


    ¡ªNot only the relationship between the Bai family and the Qin family but also Bai Ru''s connections with Chief Huang and those "new friends."


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t wrong, they must be "a group."


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was analyzing Bai Ru''s weaknesses,


    Bai Ru, realizing her slip of the tongue, finally couldn''t hold back. She recognized that she was no match for the man in front of her and, frightened, tried to leave.


    But just then, Qiu Tu patted her tender thigh again, chuckling, "Madam, you wouldn''t want your husband and father to be taken away, would you?"


    Qiu Tu''s words successfully froze Bai Ru''s movement.


    Her complexion changed rapidly, as if she remembered all the rumors she had heard about Qiu Tu lately, and recalled the "Authorization Letter" and "Special Arrest Warrant" he currently held.


    So, after hesitating for a moment, she ultimately... slowly sat back down.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smirked.


    Indeed, "Inner Protector" women are so easy to manipulate.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu kept his hand firmly on Bai Ru''s leg.


    While gently caressing her, he asked, "Madam, you must have something you want to talk to me about today, right?"


    ---


    Today 3 chapters, 10k words; published 2 chapters, with 1 chapter still being written. Everyone can look forward to it tomorrow at noon.

 Chapter 107 Mistress? (10k Subscriptions Wanted)

    If it were any other woman with a different temperament, faced with Qiu Tu''s actions, most would have immediately called for help or, at the very least, turned around and walked away.But... a woman with the "Inner Protector" temperament couldn''t muster the courage to do so¡ªespecially when the other party had a grip on her Achilles'' heel.


    So, feeling Qiu Tu''s hand caressing her legs, sensing his increasingly ambiguous moves, Bai Ru''s complexion changed several times until... she took off her short Chanel-style jacket and placed it over her legs, shielding Qiu Tu''s hand...


    Qiu Tu glanced at Bai Ru, somewhat surprised by the lady''s "cooperation."


    Then... he saw the slight flush that appeared on Bai Ru''s fair cheek, and the unnatural expression that spread across her face...


    For some reason, Qiu Tu felt even more thrilled...


    After covering her legs with the jacket as if to "cover her ears to steal a bell," Bai Ru swallowed several times, suppressed the unease in her heart, and slowly revealed her purpose, "Chief Qiu, the reason I''m here today is that there''s some intelligence I''d like to discuss with you."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu ''oh''ed and, while tracing circles on her leg, asked, "What intelligence?"


    Feeling the unusual movement of Qiu Tu''s hand, Bai Ru''s face grew redder, but she feigned calmness and revealed, "Actually, I''ve seen Yin Caimei at many gatherings."


    Qiu Tu gave her a look, puzzled, and asked, "Isn''t that normal? Vice President Tian naturally has social interactions with you all. Is it strange to see his mistress?"


    At this, Bai Ru seemed to regain some confidence. She shook her head slightly and said, "It seems that no one has told Chief Qiu."


    "Vice President Tian has his own wife, and at all formal events, he appears with his wife, never with other female companions."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment.


    Then he remembered Bai Ru mentioning that she "often encountered Yin Caimei at gatherings," his eyes suddenly widened with a shocking suspicion!


    Sure enough, Bai Ru stated, "So, every time I see Yin Caimei... she''s always attending banquets with other men."


    "Moreover, she''s exceedingly intimate with those men. When they leave, they leave together..."


    Bai Ru spoke in a subtle way, but the phrase "leave together" was enough to let Qiu Tu imagine the rest of the details.


    So, after a silence of two seconds, Qiu Tu slowly articulated four words, "Shared mistress?"


    Perhaps the news was too shocking; Qiu Tu even stopped the movements of his hand.


    This, in turn, allowed Bai Ru''s complexion to return to a more normal state.


    With some of the flush fading from her face, she then watched the "new friends" cheering for jockeys and horses in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows and said softly, "I believe that by now, you''ve guessed who those people might be, right?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also looked towards the sectional chiefs from the City Hall who had just been seeking information from him.


    Bai Ru nodded subtly, whispering, "They are just the lowest ranking among them..."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    To be honest, it wasn''t until this moment that Qiu Tu finally understood why investigating the "Yin Caimei case" was fraught with so much danger!


    Before today, there was one thing that Qiu Tu couldn''t figure out: that is... no matter how important Vice President Tian was, it didn''t make sense for so many powers to be monitoring his mistress''s case, did it?!


    Moreover, they were so desperate that they would assassinate the officers investigating the case!


    At the time, Qiu Tu had two suspicions:


    1. Vice President Tian was simply too important to Xinjie City. So important that all sides wouldn''t allow anything to happen to him.


    2. These powers were likely to have some connection to the Anti-government Armed Forces.


    While both of these suspicions had some incongruities, before that, Qiu Tu couldn''t think of any other possibilities, so he had no choice but to investigate in those directions.


    However... He had planned for every eventuality but had not anticipated that Yin Caimei was the core of the case!


    She was not only Vice President Tian''s mistress but also the mistress of many others!


    So... when Yin Caimei was discovered to be a spy and was captured by the Political Department, it led to so many people wanting her dead!


    So... Jia Shu opened the doors of convenience for various powers to silence her.


    So... there was a threat to Qiu Tu''s life when Yan Chen authorized a deeper investigation into "the case of Yin Caimei"...


    Even more so, from this, Qiu Tu thought of something further: no wonder because of such a "minor" case, Yan Chen and Jia Shu were in such discord.


    If he was right, the majority sharing Yin Caimei were probably administrative personnel from the City Hall, and the implications were far-reaching.


    As one of the Three Giants of Xinjie, of course, no one dared pressure Yan Chen, and Yan Chen was happy to see those administrative personnel from the City Hall brought down because of the case.


    But Jia Shu was different. Even though his position in Xinjie City wasn''t low, the pressure and interests from all sides still influenced his decisions.


    That reasonably explained why, even though they were on the same side, Jia Shu and Yan Chen were so divided over this matter.


    Not for anything else, but for profit alone.


    And now, having thoroughly understood the intricacies of the case, Qiu Tu''s brain was whirling.


    A question surfaced in his mind: given the broad implications of the case, should he continue the investigation?


    His complexion rapidly shifted as his brain weighed the pros and cons.


    In the end... Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute again!


    Having been given a second chance at life, he had no room for hesitation and second-guessing!


    Now that they were ready to launch, how could he possibly give up just because the enemies were too powerful!


    ```


    The broader the case involved, the greater the personal gain after resolving it!


    No risk, no reward, the higher the waves, the more precious the fish! Take the shot, a bicycle might turn into a motorcycle!


    Having come to a decision, Qiu Tu felt his mindset become more natural.


    He smiled at Bai Ru and said, "Thank you, Section Chief Bai, for telling me such a secret matter."


    "You dared to take such a big risk to warn me, you must want something, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru''s eyes, brimming with tears, turned to him as she pleaded, "I hope Chief Qiu can let my husband go... He''s been wronged."


    Qiu Tu was even more intrigued, "Are you talking about Qian Dafu?"


    Bai Ru nodded.


    Qiu Tu pretended to be puzzled, "What happened to him? Is he involved in this case?"


    Bai Ru probably didn''t expect Qiu Tu to ask such a question.


    For a moment, she couldn''t tell whether Qiu Tu really hadn''t found anything about her husband or if he was... hinting at something to her.


    Just then, a burst of cheers and some groans suddenly came from the direction of the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the scene. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The cheers intermingled with people''s frustrated voices.


    Qiu Tu and Bai Ru looked in the direction the sounds were coming from and saw Chief Huang and others, some laughing, some upset, engaged in a heated argument.


    It looked like a horse race had just finished.


    Noticing this, Qiu Tu curiously watched Captain Zhang.


    Indeed... Chief Huang hadn''t given a wrong introduction; this young man following General Ye had lost another bet, his eyes red as he roared something at the racetrack below, then... he started asking people around him for money.


    Qiu Tu watched thoughtfully for a moment and then looked away.


    At this time, Chief Huang and others returned as well.


    Seeing Bai Ru sitting intimately by Qiu Tu''s side, they exchanged glances, and when they looked at the two again, there was an unspoken ambiguity in their eyes.


    After all, Bai Ru was married, so upon seeing this, she quickly tried to get up.


    But at this moment, Qiu Tu reached out to catch her and drew her slender waist directly into his arms. Amidst her exclamations, he pulled her into his embrace.


    With the beauty in his arms, Qiu Tu smiled at Chief Huang and others, saying, "Section Chief Bai and I hit it off right away, and she wants to join us."


    "I wonder if that''s convenient?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chief Huang and the others exchanged looks, then replied with an ambiguous smile, "We have no problem with it."


    "It''s just that the upcoming activities might be a bit much for Section Chief Bai to handle."


    As they said this, they winked at Qiu Tu and Bai Ru.


    Qiu Tu then turned to Bai Ru and whispered intimately into her ear, "What do you think, Section Chief Bai? Do you want to come with us and broaden your horizons?"


    Bai Ru obviously guessed what "broadening horizons" the men were referring to and was not inclined to participate.


    But, remembering her husband''s fate was still in Qiu Tu''s hands and that she hadn''t fully grasped the meaning behind Qiu Tu''s previous words,


    she hesitated for a long time, her expression changing. Finally, she sighed and nodded slightly, agreeing to go along.


    Seeing her agreement, the men burst out into loud laughter, especially Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, and other City Hall officials involved with Yin Caimei, laughed the hardest.


    Becaue... in their eyes, Qiu Tu''s actions were a strong signal to them: they were all on the same side. There was no need to worry about Yin Caimei''s case.


    Qiu Tu also smiled especially heartily.


    Laugh, laugh all you want, your time to cry will come...


    After the race, fulfilling Qiu Tu''s request to "broaden horizons," Chief Huang took Qiu Tu and a dozen heads and deputy heads to the nightclub at Emerald Fort.


    Upon arriving at the opulent nightclub, Qiu Tu felt his left pants pocket vibrate a few times.


    With one arm around Bai Ru, he took out the communicator with his other hand.


    There was only one text on the communicator, from Chen Feng:


    "Boss, shall we gather tonight?"


    It was the code Qiu Tu and he had agreed on. It meant, "Commander, everything is in place, should we execute the plan?"


    Qiu Tu knew all the groups must have already taken positions near Qian Dafu and the other targets, ready to move.


    So, he typed a message: I''m tied up, you guys go ahead.


    "Take action."


    After sending the message, Qiu Tu laughed and planted a kiss on Bai Ru''s face, then, amid her exclamations, stealthily pressed the send button...


    -------


    Today''s 3 chapters total 10,000 words. I''ll post 2 chapters now and am still writing one more, which you can see tomorrow at noon. Ten thousand words for Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 108 Caught 4 Section Chiefs in One Go! (10,000 Characters, Please Subscribe)

    After sending the message, Qiu Tu stuffed the communicator into his pocket, embraced Bai Ru, and called out to Chief Huang and the others, "Shall we start now?!""Whew Whew¡ª"


    Accompanied by unrestrained laughter and whistling, a line of scantily clad beauties walked in one by one from the door of the private room, all smiling coyly...


    Soon, the entire VIP room was filled with the chirping and chattering of joyful voices...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Outside the small villa where Qian Dafu lived.


    Chen Feng and Eagle had also received the message sent by Qiu Tu.


    After seeing that it was a code for executing orders, Chen Feng looked at his watch, which showed 1:07 PM.


    All the commanders of the action groups had synchronized their watches when they split up, so there was no discrepancy in time.


    Therefore, Chen Feng and Eagle sent out the action message to the other four action groups together: The chief has authorized the operation, and the arrest will officially begin at 1:10 PM!


    It didn''t take long for the two men to receive confirmation replies from all the action groups.


    With the last confirmation message received, the communicator went silent.


    Chen Feng and Eagle gave several hand signals, alerting the detectives in surveillance to get ready, and then they began to patiently wait.


    Time ticked away by the minute and second.


    Soon, it was 1:10 PM.


    Chen Feng and Eagle exchanged glances, then nodded.


    Eagle stayed behind to command, while Chen Feng led two armed Special Service detectives, holding an arrest warrant issued by Qiu Tu, and strode confidently up to the door of Qian Dafu''s villa.


    "Thump Thump Thump!"


    Following Chen Feng''s knocking, a middle-aged woman''s voice soon came from inside, "Who is it?"


    Chen Feng sternly said, "Political Department."


    Upon hearing Chen Feng''s voice, a flurry of panic ensued inside the house.


    Instead of opening the door, someone hurried to the windows on the east and west sides of the villa to peer out.


    When they saw several detectives on alert in each direction, more commotion arose from inside the house.


    Seeing this, Chen Feng didn''t give the people inside much time to react. He drew his service pistol and fired a warning shot into the sky, following Qiu Tu''s instructions from that morning!


    "Bang!"


    As the gunshot resounded over the entire villa complex, the noise inside the house quieted down.


    At this time, Chen Feng shouted into the house, "Political Department on duty! Anyone delaying will face consequences!"


    "I''m going to count to three! If the door isn''t opened by then, we will take it as an act of resistance to arrest, and we''re authorized to shoot to kill!"


    "Three!"


    "Two!"


    Chen Feng hadn''t even shouted "One" when someone violently flung open the villa door from the inside.


    A maid in her thirties looked out at Chen Feng with a face full of terror, her hands raised high, "Don''t shoot! Don''t shoot! I''m innocent!"


    She then quickly signaled toward the inside, "The...the master is inside."


    Hearing this, Chen Feng motioned to the Special Service detective beside him, who stepped forward, dragged the maid out, pushed her aside, and then stood ready next to Chen Feng again.


    Chen Feng held out the arrest warrant directly, and with a gun in hand, once again shouted into the house, "Qian Dafu! I am Chen Feng, a Second-Class Investigator from the Political Department''s operation section!"


    "I''m here to execute an arrest order on you!"


    "I''m giving you three more seconds! If you don''t come out, don''t blame us if our bullets are blind!"


    "Three!"


    This time Chen Feng didn''t even have to shout "Two" before a potbellied middle-aged man walked out from inside the house, pale as a ghost.


    Chen Feng looked at him coldly and waved to the Special Service detectives, "Take him away!"


    The two Special Service detectives stepped forward, cuffed Qian Dafu, and started to lead him outside.


    The entire arrest process took less than a minute.


    Qian Dafu''s two highly paid bodyguards had stood behind him from start to finish, not daring to make a single move...


    Simultaneously.


    The villas of the other three major transporters, the Qin Family, all action groups were moving at the same time.


    As Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had expected, in the face of real bullets and armed detectives, in front of the mighty state machine, those businessmen had no power to resist at all.


    Even the well-rooted Qin Family, faced with over a dozen fully-armed Special Service and Political Department investigators; faced with the arrest warrant signed by Qiu Tu; faced with the photocopy of Yan Chen''s "Special Arrest Warrant," dared not resist.


    They could only watch helplessly as Qin Zhengguang and Qin Shu were taken away by Fang Ming, Cao Dabiao, and others.


    The operation was swift and fast, leaving these people with hardly any time to react before it was over.


    But... the end of the operation didn''t mean that everything was over.


    The sudden mass arrests by Qiu Tu were like a huge stone thrown into the already churningly turbulent waters, which then "boom!" created a huge splash!


    The repercussions of the incident rapidly spread across the upper echelons of Xinjie City society!


    No one expected Qiu Tu to take action so quickly, so urgently!


    He had just received the Authorization Letter and the Special Arrest Warrant yesterday, yet today at noon he went straight to making arrests!


    He didn''t even give the various forces time to react!


    Especially since... at this moment, Qiu Tu was still singing with Chief Huang, Section Chief Kong, and others!


    ... S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Truth be told, when Chief Huang and the others dragged Qiu Tu to the night club at the Emerald Fort, although he appeared to be looking forward to it, he wasn''t particularly interested at heart.


    Having lived a profligate past life, he truly felt there was nothing new for him to see!


    However, after experiencing the services at the Emerald Fort with Chief Huang, Section Chief Kong, and the others, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remark in his heart: This is indeed something I have never seen before!


    As his spacious private room echoed with the sound of one communicator after another, Qiu Tu was draping one arm around Mrs. Bai Ru, the wife of Qian Dafu, and running his other hand up the thigh of a cheongsam-clad beauty, while.... in front of him, he was enjoying a "facial wash" service from a big-busted girl.


    The cleansing cream rolled over Qiu Tu''s face, soft and comfortable, making him feel utterly relaxed and pleased!


    Bai Ru, blushing and looking away, couldn''t bear to watch the scene unfolding before her, but Qiu Tu''s persistent grip prevented her from escaping.


    So, she could only curl up like a quail, casting her eyes toward the group of dancing girls in the center of the room.


    Then, a series of ringing sounds began to rise and fall throughout the private room.


    Several City Hall section chiefs gradually stopped their "face wash" and stepped out to take calls.


    Bai Ru, somewhat puzzled by the scene unfolding before her, didn''t understand what was happening.


    It was at that moment, the Chief Huang sitting beside Qiu Tu spoke up.


    Chief Huang, too, was indulging in the pleasures around him. As he closed his eyes in enjoyment, he said to Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu."


    "You know, I, Old Huang, have a wide circle of friends. Sometimes I can''t help but entertain friends when they come asking."


    "So.... if you catch them, you can''t arrest me, right?"


    The words of Chief Huang made Bai Ru startle, almost failing to catch on.


    ''What does he mean by not arresting Chief Huang if they arrest others?''


    ''Who is Qiu Tu going to arrest?''


    ''Wasn''t the issue with Yin Caimei resolved?''


    As she pondered, suddenly, her own communicator began to buzz.


    Bai Ru took out the communicator and saw that it was a call from her home landline.


    In that instant, perhaps realizing the caller was her husband, Bai Ru''s face flushed even deeper red.


    She awkwardly glanced at Qiu Tu''s hand that was wandering along her waistline, feeling unspeakably ashamed.


    She wished that Qiu Tu would momentarily leave her alone to take the call.


    But before she could speak up, as if anticipating something, Qiu Tu took the lead in releasing her. His arms then embraced the girl in front of him, plunging his head forward!


    "Hmm, comfortable!"


    Qiu Tu let out a satisfied cry, leaving Bai Ru with a crimson face.


    Bai Ru quickly seized the opportunity to sit aside and answer the phone.


    The moment the call connected, the anxious voice of a maid at home came through, "Madam, please come back quickly and see for yourself."


    "The Political Department, people from the Political Department have taken the master away!"


    Upon hearing the maid''s words, Bai Ru''s mind went blank with a "buzz"!


    On instinct, she turned her head in shock and looked at Qiu Tu!


    Before she could utter a word, the door to the private room was abruptly pushed open from the outside, with Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and others all standing at the doorway, their faces filled with disbelief as they looked at Qiu Tu!


    Section Chief Kong, perhaps the bravest among them, pointed at Qiu Tu, his finger trembling, "Qiu, Qiu Tu! You, you, you have been playing a double game?!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, who was reluctantly raising his head from the cleansing cream, pushed away the fair-skinned busty girl atop him. Then, with a smile that was not quite a smile, he looked at the three section chiefs standing at the door and said, "Gentlemen, I don''t believe I ever said or promised anything, did I? How can this be considered speaking one way to your face and another behind your back?"


    "On the contrary, I should probably thank you."


    "If you hadn''t jumped out on your own, who knows how much time I might have had to waste before I could uncover the true depths of this case!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and stood up. He then pulled out a blank arrest warrant from his pocket, drew out a pen, and briskly signed several names on it, showing it to everyone, "Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, shall we take a trip to the Political Department?!"


    Possibly never expecting Qiu Tu to turn his face so quickly, the three men erupted in panic, shaking like leaves, barely able to stand.


    It was at this moment, Bai Ru, who had appeared so delicate and weak from the very beginning of their meeting, suddenly mustered her courage, stood up defiantly, and, with an indignant face, said to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! You! How could you!"


    As if he had just noticed Bai Ru, he let out a surprised "Oh" and added her name to the arrest warrant,


    "Right, I almost forgot about you, Section Chief Bai...."


    "Thank you for your cooperation with ''the operation'' today."


    "I hope you can be just as ''cooperative'' when we reach the Political Department."


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    I toiled away until 4 in the morning, and finally, the third chapter is out. 10k words done! In light of my efforts to stay up late, I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 109 Continue to Play Music and Dance (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    They might never have encountered a situation where they were having a great time playing together, only for it to turn into an arrest in the middle of their fun.So when Qiu Tu stood up and signed the arrest warrant on the spot, the entire glittering private room suddenly fell silent as a tomb.


    The other captains and section chiefs playing with them, as well as the rich merchants, all lifted their heads from the ladies'' creamy bosoms, one by one, looking at Qiu Tu in surprise, then at Section Chief Bai and Section Chief Kong.


    Perhaps the atmosphere in the room was too stiff or maybe the name "Political Department," stained with blood, was too scary.


    Even the beauties who had been dancing in the room stopped their moves, standing still, not knowing what to do as they watched everyone.


    The only one who remained calm in the room was probably Chief Huang, the organizer of the party.


    The girl helping him wash his face was already too frightened to move, but he actually closed his eyes, pressing forward, rubbing in the tender softness as if the whole thing really had nothing to do with him.


    Seeing his composure, Qiu Tu''s eyes seemed to contemplate, and then he too reassured everyone with a smile, "Everyone, don''t be agitated."


    "I''m just going out to discuss a case with Section Chief Kong and Section Chief Bai."


    "This matter is official business among us and has nothing to do with you all."


    "So...."


    Qiu Tu walked to the middle of the private room, grinning as he wrapped an arm around a scantily clad dancer, then snapped his fingers at the service personnel at the console, "Continue the music, continue the dance!"


    "Let''s all continue to have fun!"


    Being the center of attention in the room now, Qiu Tu''s instructions had the service personnel promptly put the dynamic music back on.


    With the music vibrant and blazing, Qiu Tu laughed heartily, hugging the barely clothed dancers and started dancing wildly!


    While dancing, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but inwardly exclaim: Damn, I''m so dedicated to my work!


    If it were any other detective, they probably would have taken the suspect and left by now. Only I, even though I''ve already worked so hard, still play the part to the fullest, dancing close with these beauties!


    After dancing with the beauties for a few songs and breaking out into a sweat, Qiu Tu stretched lazily, finally climbing out from the pile of women. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He took out his wallet and grabbed a handful of Silver Yuans, then teasingly said to the group of beauties crowding around him, "Say thank you."


    Seeing the Silver Yuans in Qiu Tu''s hand, the beauties scrambled to say, "Thank you!" "Thank you, sir!" "Thank you, boss!"


    Qiu Tu laughed and scattered the Silver Yuans over them, then turned to the service girl who had been serving him.


    This time, Qiu Tu counted out six Silver Yuans, placing them one by one into her deep cleavage, then patted her chest and complimented with a smile, "Good job. I''ll look for you again next time."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu turned around and embraced Bai Ru, who was still frozen in place, waved to everyone without looking back, leaving behind a dashing silhouette, "We''ll be leaving first!"


    "Everyone, continue having a good time!"


    "We''ll meet again next time!"


    From the moment Qiu Tu presented the arrest warrant, the atmosphere in the private room had actually been quite strange.


    So even though Qiu Tu got everyone playing again, in reality... it was only Qiu Tu who was playing.


    The other captains and section chiefs, although still holding the girls, no longer had the relaxed expression from before, only a mix of pain and numbness as if they were working overtime or handling a tedious task.


    As for Bai Ru and Section Chief Kong, it was even worse for them.


    As the suspects whom Qiu Tu had apprehended, they stood there, not knowing whether to run or sit, just staring dumbly as Qiu Tu and the beauties merrily mingled.


    So when Qiu Tu finally decided to leave after having his fill of fun, everyone was able to breathe a sigh of relief.


    Even Bai Ru and Section Chief Kong seemed to feel a sense of liberation, obediently following Qiu Tu out of the extravagantly decorated private room.


    And after Qiu Tu and his party left the private room, the joyful atmosphere that had been there finally began to return to tranquility.


    All the officers present now had their eyes on Chief Huang.


    Chief Huang seemed to sense those looks and sighed deeply, slowly lifting his head from the creamy bosom.


    The service personnel, perceptive to the mood, switched off the music and left the private room with the dancers and the busty girls, tiptoeing out and leaving the vast room to the officers.


    The private room was already large, and when they left, it suddenly felt more spacious and lonely....


    Now without outsiders, Chief Huang looked around at everyone present and slowly said, "What happened today is not that simple... I was just following orders...."


    [6 and a half days (time to close Yin Caimei''s case)]


    [3 and a half days (danger in the dark)]


    .....


    It has to be said, Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and the others were quite compliant.


    Even though Qiu Tu did not handcuff them or escort them personally, once it was confirmed that the arrest warrant was legitimate, they obediently followed Qiu Tu out of the Emerald Fort night club.


    Of course, along the way, they did not forget to threaten Qiu Tu, just like villains in a TV show.


    With phrases like "I will definitely file a complaint against Qiu Tu!" "I won''t let Qiu Tu get away with this!" "Qiu Tu just wait," they kept talking all the way....


    Qiu Tu''s response was to continue fondling Bai Ru''s waist, while nonchalantly saying, "Yes, yes, yes," "Right, right, right," just humoring them.

 Chapter 109 Continue to Play Music and Dance (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    Qiu Tu wasn''t exactly even-tempered; he just couldn''t be bothered to quibble with "dead people."He clearly remembered the first thing he learned when he entered the Political Department: in the Political Department, there were never any miscarriages of justice.


    So, what''s the point in arguing with people who have no future?...


    After driving out of Emerald Fort, with a group of suspects already sent back, Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun were already waiting outside in the police T-model cars.


    When they saw Qiu Tu come out, they all went up to him.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car and let Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun take Section Chief Kong and the others to the T-model cars, leaving only Bai Ru in his own vehicle.


    This clearly led to a misunderstanding among his confidants, like Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun.


    Cao Dabiao glanced at Bai Ru twice, chuckled craftily, and moved closer to Qiu Tu to ask in a low voice, "Chief, are all the beauties from Emerald Fort of such high quality?"


    "This woman may look just above average, but that temperament of hers... tsk tsk."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu tilted his head towards Bai Ru in the car and indifferently stated, "She is one of the suspects, the wife of Qian Dafu, Section Chief Bai from City Hall, her father is the Deputy Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was initially stunned, then hurriedly put away his playful expression, looking rather embarrassed. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although there are slight differences in the hierarchy, the positions within the three major institutions were still interchangeable.


    Moreover, being part of the Sanctuary meant that, unless an official''s status was revoked, subordinates could not make such jokes with their superiors, even if they were suspects.


    Seeing Cao Dabiao taken down a peg, a malicious smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face.


    Say what you will, although Cao Dabiao was greedy, lecherous, timid, and averse to trouble, after spending time together, you''d find he is quite amusing.


    And indeed, teams often need such a lubricant.


    That''s why Qiu Tu actually enjoyed teasing him from time to time, just to see him in an awkward spot.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu instructed Cao Dabiao and the others to escort the prisoners in the police T-model cars, while he followed behind in his vehicle with Bai Ru.


    He got into the car and started it.


    Sitting in the passenger seat, Bai Ru fell silent for two seconds before asking, "Why didn''t you let me go in that car too?"


    "Is it because you want to interrogate me alone?"


    "Or is it because I''m a woman, and it''s not very convenient to sit with them in the same car?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t answer her question and instead, while driving, commanded, "Spread your legs!"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ru looked bewildered, but her conservative nature meant that faced with Qiu Tu''s authoritative command, she involuntarily chose to comply: she spread her thin legs apart.


    Thus, with his left hand on the steering wheel and his right hand on Bai Ru''s thigh, Qiu Tu felt comfortable...


    After all, when driving, hands should be where they belong. Otherwise, what''s the point of driving!


    Bai Ru:.....


    Following behind the police T-model car, they drove all the way to the Investigation Bureau.


    He stopped the car. Although no action had been announced, somehow, news had reached Liu Fuping from the Investigation Bureau, who was already waiting in the parking lot.


    When Qiu Tu got out of the car, she swayed over.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, she was about to say something with a smile on her face. But before she could speak, she saw Bai Ru coming down from the car, and she paused.


    "Sister Liu has arrived?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu casually greeted her, then said, "Good timing. This is Section Chief Bai, the wife of Qian Dafu. Could you take her to the guard room?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu assigning her a task, although Liu Fuping wanted to stay and chat with him, she could only salute and respond, "Yes, chief."


    After receiving the order, Liu Fuping walked towards Bai Ru, gesturing slightly with her hand, "Section Chief Bai, this way, please~"


    According to the "Emotional Fraud Manual," for women with a "protective" mindset, change signifies "danger" and "discomfort"; they prefer a static, predictable life.


    So, even though Qiu Tu had been taking advantage of her since they met, the moment she saw Liu Fuping, Bai Ru still pulled at the corner of Qiu Tu''s uniform jacket in a plea for help.


    Noticing her action, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then patted Bai Ru''s hand with amusement in his eyes, soothingly saying, "Don''t worry, Agent Liu is my person. She won''t do anything to you."


    Hearing this, Bai Ru finally relaxed and then also let go of the corner of Qiu Tu''s jacket.


    But after letting go, she realized belatedly: why should she trust the subordinates of Qiu Tu? If he himself is a big liar, wouldn''t his subordinates just be small-time swindlers?


    She must be very careful!


    Thinking this, Bai Ru followed Liu Fuping towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Along the way, Liu Fuping led Bai Ru forward while saying with a sympathetic face, "Section Chief Bai must have been wronged, right? Chief Qiu is... well..."


    As if sensing Liu Fuping''s "opinion" of Qiu Tu, Bai Ru froze for a moment, then looked up at Liu Fuping with puzzled astonishment, "Miss Liu, do you also have issues with Chief Qiu...?"


    Glancing around, and seeing that no one had noticed, Liu Fuping whispered with a look of disgust, "What chief? He''s just a pervert. Let me tell you, he often..."


    "Ah? Really?"


    "Yes. Why were you taken to the Political Department, Section Chief Bai? Qiu didn''t take advantage of you on the way, did he?"


    "I was taken because of my husband Qian Dafu... Of course, he took advantage of me."


    "My God. He''s such a beast! But what''s up with your husband?"


    "My husband, well, he..."


    In this way, their conversation grew more engaged. Even though it was just a short few-minute walk from the parking lot to the Guard Room, Liu Fuping had already managed to extract all the information she found interesting.


    She learned not only what happened today, the reasons why Bai Ru, Section Chief Kong and others were arrested, Bai Ru''s family background, her marital relationship, but even the color of her underwear.


    Um...black lace. A bit risqu¨¦.


    After escorting Bai Ru into the Guard Room, Liu Fuping hummed a tune and swayed her hips cheerfully towards the Investigation Bureau, feeling rather good.


    Just last night, she had merely audited a live lesson by Qiu Tu and felt like she''d gained a lot. Using what she learned on Bai Ru today turned out to work pretty well!


    This made her look forward even more to Qiu Tu''s teaching...


    She felt that if she could learn from Qiu Tu a few more times, she might become a qualified spy and interrogation expert...


    But the most important thing right now was to figure out exactly what Qiu Tu planned to do today and why he had caused such a stir.


    This was the mission recently given to her by the forces behind her...


    With that thought in mind, Liu Fuping quickly headed towards the Investigation Bureau...


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +8]


    ....


    As Liu Fuping watched Bai Ru enter the Investigation Bureau building,


    Qiu Tu rested in the car for a moment, then looked up at the overcast sky and also headed towards the Investigation Bureau building.


    Taking the elevator, he reached the 9th floor, the Political Department.


    The person he ran into was his superior, the head of the Interrogation Section, Zheng Tao.


    Seeing Qiu Tu again, Zheng Tao''s expression was noticeably complicated.


    As a workaholic, of course, Saturday was a working day. Thus, he was one of the first to learn about Qiu Tu''s big roundup today.


    Upon learning that Qiu Tu had tricked some section chiefs of the City Hall into going to the Emerald Fort under the guise of leisure to deceive the enemy and then arrested all involved with a thunderous approach,


    for the first time, he started to see his subordinate in a new light, thinking... maybe he''s quite a talent!


    So, upon seeing Qiu Tu, he even took the initiative to greet him and praised, "Chief Qiu, you''ve done a splendid job with this case."


    Surprised at Zheng Tao''s praise, Qiu Tu glanced at him and replied, "Section Chief, don''t think you can replace a vacation with praise, huh."


    "I''ll definitely make up for today''s overtime work next week."


    Zheng Tao:.....


    Such an incorrigible case!


    After parting with Zheng Tao, Qiu Tu received many looks along the way similar to Zheng Tao''s that were either "admiration," "envy," or "surprise."


    Obviously, there are no secrets in a government department. The people Qiu Tu had arrested half an hour ago were already the talk of the entire Political Department.


    However, Qiu Tu was not as optimistic as they were.


    So, after briefly attending the "arrest report" back at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu didn''t go immediately to interrogate the criminals.


    Instead...he went to the empty meeting room next door, took out his communicator, and waited quietly.


    He was waiting for a phone call.


    That call would determine the success or failure of everything he did tonight!


    ------


    Today, I''ll still update with 3 chapters at 10,000 characters. Here are 2 chapters at 7,000 words first.


    As a member of the physically challenged writers'' club, my writing speed is too slow, and there''s still one chapter that I haven''t managed to write. I will make it up when I get up in the morning; I will strive to publish it around 12 o''clock.

 Chapter 110 A Tit-for-tat with Jia Shu (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket)

    Qiu Tu did not have to wait long.After just a few minutes, his communicator began to vibrate with a "buzz buzz" sound.


    He picked up the communicator and glanced at the caller ID. After confirming it was the person he was waiting for,


    he adjusted his demeanor and then answered the phone with a smile.


    As the call connected, Jia Shu''s forced laughter came through the earpiece, "Chief Qiu''s methods are impressive. You made such a big splash without making a sound."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s somewhat sarcastic words, Qiu Tu replied with a serious expression, "Thank you for the compliment, Minister. It''s all thanks to your excellent guidance."


    Both men were old foxes, and simple verbal sparring wouldn''t affect their moods.


    So, Jia Shu pretended not to catch Qiu Tu''s sarcasm and formally started the conversation.


    He asked with a smile, "Does Chief Qiu know who he arrested today?"


    Qiu Tu honestly replied, "Of course, I know. I arrested Qian Dafu, Wang Zhuang, Hu Kaiwei, and Qi Yun, four big merchants in the transportation industry."


    At this moment, Jia Shu was sitting in a private box on the fifth floor of the Emerald Fort racecourse.


    The sky outside the box was dull and overcast, casting his face in intermittent shadows.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu chuckled, casually fiddling with a set of playing cards in his hand, and corrected lightly, "Not four big merchants in the transportation industry, but the heads of the only four transportation companies in Xinjie City."


    "Apart from the official transport teams managed by the military, these four companies are the sole channels for Xinjie City to exchange materials with other cities."


    "Is that so?" Qiu Tu, who already knew all this, feigned surprise and asked, "Did I cause any trouble for the minister then?"


    Qiu Tu''s feigned ignorance didn''t deceive Jia Shu, who chuckled lightly and affirmed, "Indeed, you''ve caused some trouble."


    "As soon as these four big merchants were arrested, the exchange of supplies in Xinjie City came to a complete halt."


    "The various departments of the City Hall are calling me one after another, asking what exactly happened and when I can release these four merchants, fearing that the transport channels might be closed permanently."


    With that, Jia Shu sighed, as if he were pressuring or lamenting, "It''s a serious matter, Chief Qiu. After all, the Investigation Bureau also needs supplies distributed from the City Hall."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu sat at a table in the empty conference room, his expression unchanged. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He knew that no matter what Jia Shu said, he was actually pressuring him to release the prisoners.


    But... the men had already been arrested; how could Qiu Tu possibly let them go!


    Therefore, he did not follow up on Jia Shu''s words but instead took a different angle, lamenting,


    "It seems... they really have a grip on the lifeline of Xinjie City, otherwise... they wouldn''t have the courage to engage in illegal activities."


    Hearing this, Jia Shu "ha-ha" laughed twice, downplaying the topic and then timely switched to another one.


    He asked, "I understand why Chief Qiu arrested four transport merchants, but why did you also arrest Qin Shu and... Director Qin Zhengguang?"


    Jia Shu paused for a moment, then added with a laugh, "Do you know, after they were arrested, Commissioner Qin Heng immediately called the Bureau Chief and me..."


    He stopped there, neither revealing what Commissioner Qin had said nor how Yan Chen reacted, leaving a meaningful silence...


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu knew the most crucial part was coming.


    So instead of directly answering Jia Shu''s question, he digressed and said, "Minister, do you know that Director Qin Zhengguang was very happy when he was taken away by our Political Department Investigator?"


    "He even shook the Investigator''s hand and said ''thank you.''"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu''s card-playing paused momentarily over the phone. He feigned surprise with an "Oh?" and asked, "Really? Why?"


    Qiu Tu paused for two seconds, then softly said, "Because... I sent him a text message beforehand. I told him... the Security Department was eyeing this case, eyeing him."


    "Boom!"


    Whether by coincidence or not, as Qiu Tu quietly revealed this secret, a rumble of thunder exploded over the sky of Xinjie City.


    Together with the thunder, the already gloomy sky began to pour down small droplets of rain with a "whoosh."


    The drizzle seemed to disrupt the communication signal. Jia Shu paused for two seconds before putting away the cards and the smile, and slowly asked, "The Security Department... is eyeing this case?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in affirmation, sharing an even bigger secret, "Moreover, according to the information I''ve received, the Security Department is very likely to take action to arrest Vice President Tian tonight."


    Jia Shu was silent again for two seconds.


    After two seconds, as if he had replayed all the information in his mind and re-evaluated the whole case, he regained his composure.


    He leaned back on the sofa in the private box, laughed insincerely, and inquired, "Chief Qiu, how did you come to know about this?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Because I''ve been in mutual communication with them."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused then added softly, "Or rather... I was the one who disclosed this case to the Security Department."


    "Boom!"


    Another peal of thunder rumbled across the murky horizon. The rain fell harder and soon melded into sheets.


    Through the glass, the downpour partitioned the world into segments, like a curtain of rain.


    Over the phone, Jia Shu could barely contain his emotion. He laughed twice with a "ha-ha" and then said, "Interesting, interesting. I had not expected Chief Qiu to be so forthright."


    Qiu Tu also started to laugh.


    Two seconds later, Jia Shu''s fake laughter ceased; he sat up and said blandly, "Give me a reason."


    This time, he did not smile, and his tone was very calm. Yet... it still gave off an eerie sense of bloodiness.


    As Jia Shu spoke these words, a mass of Crisis Warnings suddenly popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    A [Countdown Hourglass] with only 1 minute started flashing, crazily flickering with red light, as if telling Qiu Tu how dangerous the crisis was.


    But Qiu Tu did not even glance at the countdown hourglass, nor did he look at those Crisis Warnings.


    He took in a silent, deep breath, suppressing the emotions churn in his heart, and naturally said to Jia Shu,


    "Because... during the days handling this case, I''ve found it to be too complex, too special. It''s like a candied fruit wrapped around poison."


    "Handled well, there isn''t much benefit to be gained. Handled poorly, one might instead face difficulties from all sides."


    [0:53]


    "So, I thought: since this is the case, why should the Political Department insist on clinging to it? After all, this case involves crimes committed by Cataclysmics, which isn''t within our investigative domain."


    "Why not throw the case to the military, let them deal with City Hall, and we reap the benefits like a fisherman?"


    Qiu Tu''s voice had a beguiling charm as he softly said, "After all, we''re the ones who discovered this case. If it''s cracked, we get the credit."


    "If it''s not solved, we''re not the principal investigators, so we won''t be criticized..."


    [0:45]


    "We''ll take the benefits we deserve, let the military, let the Security Department bear the pressure!"


    "As long as we have some key suspects in our hands. The progress of the Security Department''s investigation will always be under our control."


    [0:39]


    Seeing that Jia Shu was taking the bait, Qiu Tu paused, then whispered, "Moreover, what''s most important is that in doing so, the fundamental conflict between you and the Bureau Chief over this case will no longer exist..."


    "I could also breathe a sigh of relief. After all, being caught between you and the Bureau Chief has been like an eternity for me...."


    As Qiu Tu spoke his last sentence, the [Countdown Hourglass] struggling through a few more seconds of flashing red light, gradually came to a halt.


    Qiu Tu did not let his guard down, he quietly waited a few more seconds. Seeing that the [Countdown Hourglass] truly did not resume its countdown, he finally allowed himself to secretly exhale in relief.


    ''I should have won the bet, right?''


    The reason Qiu Tu took such a risky gambit, boldly proposing his cooperation with the Security Department, was actually based on a reason.


    After the fervor of last night, Qiu Tu continuously reviewed the entire case with Qin Shuman and sorted out their plans moving forward.


    As a result, they stumbled upon a difficult issue: that as soon as the Security Department made a move, Jia Shu and Yan Chen would know immediately that Qiu Tu had "defected".


    After all, to this point, all the clues and pieces of evidence for the case were in Qiu Tu''s hands. The Security Department had no pretext to act.


    Even if Qin Shuman could find another entry point to force an intervention... given Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s cunning and suspicion, it was unlikely they would believe in such a coincidence.


    Therefore, after much consideration, they felt it was better to take the initiative in disclosing this rather than being found out. To bring the matter out into the open.


    In doing so, as long as the reasons were valid, even if Yan Chen and Jia Shu might still be suspicious, it would surely be more credible than if they discovered it on their own.


    As for what reason could make Qiu Tu''s collaboration with the Security Department appear reasonable?


    After much thought, they ultimately decided on the reason just mentioned by Qiu Tu.


    It''s actually quite simple.


    In this world, every decision is driven by interests.


    The reason Yan Chen and Jia Shu had conflicts over this case, in the end, was due to a lack of unified interests.


    Jia Shu had two "interests" in this case:


    1. The promise of brand-new surveillance equipment from Vice President Tian.


    2. The desire not to confront City Hall and other Xinjie City forces directly.


    Yan Chen also had two "interests" in this case:


    1. To put Jia Shu in his place.


    2. To strike against the City Hall faction.


    Both of their first "interests" had been nearly satisfied, leaving only the second "interest" unfulfilled, which is their core conflict concerning this case.


    And it was because of this core conflict that Qiu Tu, caught between the two, found himself in a difficult position. He was damned if he did, and damned if he didn''t...


    At this time, if Qiu Tu came up with a new approach, one that does not affect the Investigation Bureau''s interests, simultaneously resolving the conflict between the two, and managing to shift the blame from himself, wouldn''t everything seem logical?


    And wouldn''t the involvement of the Security Department shift from unacceptable to a wait-and-see situation?


    Now, having heard Qiu Tu''s explanation, Jia Shu indeed lapsed back into silence.


    This was the most Jia Shu had ever been silent in the many conversations between him and Qiu Tu. It was clear that each step of the conversation today was a bit beyond his expectations, necessitating his continuous reflection...


    But Qiu Tu did not give Jia Shu too much time to think, he lobbed another bombshell, "Minister, I''m not sure if I should say this..."


    "Actually... what I''m doing is entirely to save you."


    -------


    There''s one more chapter, but I can''t finish it tonight. I will get up tomorrow morning to complete it and aim to post it around 12 noon.

 Chapter 111 No Ones Home Tonight (10,000 Words - Please Subscribe)

    It has to be said that Qiu Tu really gave Jia Shu many surprises today.In the past, although Qiu Tu was not exactly obsequious in Jia Shu''s presence, each time his spirit was tense. As an experienced interrogator like Jia Shu, he could see Qiu Tu''s nervousness at a glance.


    But today.... Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly reveal his edge.


    From the start of the phone call, he showed a demeanor ready to contend with me.


    Natural, composed. Unyielding, uncompromising. Later, he even directly threw a heavy bomb my way.


    Honestly, even Jia Shu, who had seen a lot of the world, had a hard time imagining what kind of mindset Qiu Tu had to dare reveal he had leaked case information to the Security Department.


    Wasn''t he afraid I would charge him with dereliction of duty and take him down?


    Wasn''t he afraid I would become furiously enraged and execute him secretly?


    It was precisely because of this curiosity and surprise that Jia Shu repeatedly became silent, contemplating Qiu Tu''s changes.


    Guessing what kind of trump card did Qiu Tu have to be so confident.


    However, before Jia Shu could figure it out, Qiu Tu dropped another heavy bomb...


    "Are you doing all this to save me?" Jia Shu repeated Qiu Tu''s words with a laugh, interest in his eyes almost spilling over.


    He got up, walked to the VIP box windows of the racecourse''s fifth-floor viewing platform, and looking at the torrential rain outside, he asked with a light chuckle, "Chief Qiu, where does this idea come from?"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu was also standing beside the window in the empty conference room of the Political Department, gazing distantly at Xinjie City, shrouded in rain and mist.


    The two of them were clearly in different locations, yet it was as though they were facing each other across the boundless space, across the heavy rain, gazing at each other from afar...


    Qiu Tu said softly, "Minister. In fact, today in addition to arresting the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin and Third Master Qin, I arrested a few other people as well."


    This incident happened in a private box, and coupled with Chief Huang''s gag order, it had not been leaked yet.


    Therefore, Jia Shu was also somewhat surprised and he asked, "Who else?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Education Bureau''s Section Chief Kong, Environment and Sanitation Bureau''s Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, Commerce and Economic Development Bureau''s Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and also Civil Affairs Bureau''s Section Chief Bai...."


    Listening to this list, Jia Shu on the phone slightly furrowed his brows.


    But before he could speak, Qiu Tu then said, "Are you very curious, Minister? What kind of coincidence let me just so happen to encounter them?"


    "And what kind of coincidence allowed me to... silently bag them all in one swoop?"


    Jia Shu chuckled twice and teased, "Chief Qiu has already learned to answer his own questions, it seems."


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind Jia Shu''s sarcasm. He continued calmly, "I was introduced to them by Chief Huang of the Logistics Department, who acted as the facilitator."


    While looking at the heavy rain outside the window and listening to the sound of the rain, he analyzed, "Today, when I first met Chief Huang, he said he wanted to introduce a few friends to me, to help make some connections for us."


    "At the time, I actually doubted Chief Huang''s purpose, his identity. I wondered if he played some important role in this case."


    "But when I easily coaxed insider information about the case from the mouths of those section chiefs, and just as easily caught them...."


    "A different thought arose in my mind instead."


    Stay connected with empire


    Jia Shu on the phone evidently guessed Qiu Tu''s thoughts too, as the smile slowly faded from his face, his eyes as deep as the rainstorm before him....


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Could it be that from the start, Chief Huang was actually helping me?"


    "He was instructed by someone or some power, to trick those section chiefs beforehand, allowing them to expose themselves before me."


    "Then... not only did he enable a breakthrough in my case, but he also outlined the full extent of the case...."


    "The Environment and Sanitation Bureau of City Hall, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Education Bureau, and the Civil Affairs Bureau...."


    At that, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He asked in return, "Minister, I believe by now, you must have guessed who is behind Chief Huang, right?"


    Jia Shu chuckled and feigned ignorance, "Who might that be?"


    Qiu Tu said somewhat dramatically, "It''s the Bureau Chief, Minister!"


    "We all thought the Bureau Chief was too high and mighty to bother with such a small case. But, actually... he had calculated every move!"


    "He is determined to get this case done! Nobody can stop him, no matter who they are!"


    "Today''s arrangement is both a helping hand and a warning."


    "He''s telling me, and he''s telling you. He has a thousand, ten thousand ways to advance the case!"


    "Letting us know we cannot play any tricks!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s emotions gradually subsided, and he became calm again as he said, "Although I''m not clear on the reason that has kept you on the opposite side of the Bureau Chief in the ''Yin Caimei Case''...."


    "I think if things keep going like this, the Bureau Chief will soon abandon you, abandon me."


    "Therefore, after much consideration, I found the only way to perfectly resolve the conflict between you and the Bureau Chief was to cooperate with the Security Department, letting them face the brunt."


    "Minister, I really am trying to save you...."


    "So, believe me, Minister! I will definitely handle this case well! I''ll satisfy everyone!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu on the phone remained silent for a long time as if pondering the information in Qiu Tu''s words.


    After a while, a mysterious smile spread across his face, and crimson light began to flicker in his pupils.


    He laughed soundlessly, the distorted reflection of his face shimmering off the rain-obscured window, looking particularly unsettling¡­


    ...


    [Jia Shu''s suspicion +0, satisfaction +28]


    After hanging up the phone, he looked at the prompt that floated up in front of him.


    There were also Jia Shu''s words lingering in his ear, "Chief Qiu, it seems I have misunderstood you, so go ahead and boldly do as you please!"


    "I''ll cover for you against the external pressures."


    "You can come to me with anything..."


    To be honest, Qiu Tu didn''t feel much reassured. On the contrary ... his sense of urgency had intensified.


    Last night, when discussing today''s plan with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu actually knew there was a key factor that could make or break the plan: how deeply Jia Shu was involved in the whole case.


    As the top officer of the Political Department and one of the nine senior members of the Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu had absolute disposal rights over the entire case.


    Even if Qiu Tu held the "Imperial Sword" given by Yan Chen, if Jia Shu wanted to take over the case by force and release people, Qiu Tu couldn''t stop him.


    Therefore, after arresting everyone, Qiu Tu didn''t go straight to work on the case but instead waited patiently for Jia Shu''s call.


    He needed to confirm from Jia Shu''s call the extent of pressure he was under and... whether he would flip the table or not.


    From the initial tit-for-tat, unyielding stance to the subsequent dropping of bombshells one after another, it was actually a process of "pressuring" and "stress testing" Jia Shu!


    Now, it seemed the effect was quite good. At least the worst possibility hadn''t happened.


    But for some unknown reason, Qiu Tu felt an inexplicable sense of crisis.


    He always felt he had to solve the case as soon as possible. Otherwise... there might really be danger!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t dare to delay. He glanced once more at the torrential rain merging earth and sky outside the window and then stepped towards the outside, ready to interrogate the prisoners.


    In times of emergency, extraordinary measures are necessary.


    He was ready to use his [Cataclysmic Ability] to interrogate all the suspects in one go!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu left the empty conference room and headed to the adjacent temporary office of the investigative team, ready to bring people in for questioning.


    But just as he pushed open the door to the temporary office, Qiu Tu found that none of the investigation team members were there.


    In the office... there was only the beautiful, young woman Liu Fuping. At that moment, she was leaning over her desk, rummaging through documents...


    Startled by the sound of the door, Liu Fuping quickly straightened up.


    But when she turned and saw Qiu Tu entering, a smile actually appeared on her face, and then... she bent down to continue her search through the documents.


    Today, she might have received a message on short notice and rushed to the Investigation Bureau, so she wasn''t in uniform but dressed in a somewhat professional casual attire:


    A plain white female shirt and a black tight-fitting mini skirt, outlining the perfect curves of her slender waist and full buttocks.


    Moreover, as she backed Qiu Tu while rummaging through documents, with hands braced on the table, legs slightly bent, and her buttocks lifted, there was a rather inviting pose...


    At that moment, Qiu Tu admitted that his "fist" had gotten hard.


    "Remember to close the door~~" Liu Fuping seemed to sense Qiu Tu''s reaction; she slightly turned, and seductively winked at Qiu Tu.


    ''This woman is seducing me...''


    After clarifying this point in his mind, Qiu Tu closed the door behind him, and then walked over without hesitation, reaching out to give Liu Fuping''s full bottom a smack!


    A crisp "smack!" reverberated, wave after wave.


    But Liu Fuping acted as if she noticed nothing, didn''t even cover with her hands, and just blushed while straightening up, grabbing Qiu Tu''s collar, and said in a soft and sticky voice, "Chief, my house is empty tonight... do you want to come over and ''do it''?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu realized. It''s really not easy for a man to strive for a career.


    On the road of his career sprint, there were always various temptations waiting for him.


    But fortunately, having just undergone a round of cleansing with facial wash at Emerald Fort, Qiu Tu could barely resist Liu Fuping''s lure, and even spared the effort to analyze...


    So he gently embraced the beautiful young woman before him, holding soft jade in his arms, incomparably comfortable.


    Then he leaned into Liu Fuping''s ear and whispered softly, "Sister Liu... the first rule of being a spy is to keep a cool head."


    "You are too anxious today. You''ve exposed the forces behind you..."


    ---- Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Third chapter is up, still going for a ten thousand words update tonight, ask for Monthly Tickets!


    To be honest, I really overestimated the capabilities of my clumsy hands; I have to write nearly ten thousand words a day from morning till evening. I''ve only been sleeping 4-5 hours for the last three days.


    But... I will try my best to keep it up!


    Finally, ask for Monthly Tickets! Ask for subscriptions!


    I''ll probably update around 2 AM tonight, so everyone can read it in the morning, haha.

 Chapter 112 Discovering Liu Fupings True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    If it were the Liu Fuping of the past, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s probing, she would have likely been a bit panicked inside.Even though she underwent professional training, her relatively average skills always resulted in quite a few slip-ups.


    But this period of time, following Qiu Tu''s learning and experiences, and even having had an epiphany last night thanks to Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping had clearly grown and changed.


    Therefore, faced with Qiu Tu''s probing, she wasn''t flustered in the least; she even hooked her arm around Qiu Tu''s neck and giggled, "Heeheehee."


    With a slight lift of her eyes, her gaze full of provocation, she teased, "Since it''s like this, why doesn''t the superior try to guess which power is behind me?"


    Looking at Liu Fuping''s seductive manner, Qiu Tu felt an itch in his heart; ever since this beautiful woman had her awakening, she had become increasingly bold and flirtatious with him, often making it hard for him to restrain himself.


    However, it was precisely this thrill that made him increasingly interested in their cat-and-mouse game.


    So, he reached out, caressed Liu Fuping''s cheek as soft as a young girl''s, and asked with a smile, "If I guess correctly, what do I get?"


    "A reward, huh...?" A soft light twinkled in Liu Fuping''s peach blossom eyes as she leaned in toward Qiu Tu''s ear and whispered softly, "How about I... spend the night with you?" sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu scoffed disdainfully, "You sure that''s a benefit for me? It seems more like you''re rewarding yourself."


    "Hehehe..." Liu Fuping couldn''t help but laugh at Qiu Tu''s words.


    With a mischievous smile on her face and looking cunningly at Qiu Tu, she boldly suggested, "How about this... Director Tang and I... both spend the night with you... What do you think?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hissed as images of Liu Fuping''s creamy skin and Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored skin mingling on a bed began to dance in his head.


    Thus, he couldn''t help but raise his price and said, "Four nights."


    "Deal." Liu Fuping agreed with a smile.


    Qiu Tu, "...Six nights."


    "Heeheehee..." Liu Fuping was so amused by Qiu Tu''s unserious demeanor that she couldn''t straighten her back from laughter, her chest shaking continuously.


    After the laughter had passed, Liu Fuping raised her eyes with a feigned pout and said, "Are you going to guess or not? If you don''t guess, you won''t get a single night."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, also reverted back to his serious self. Stretching lazily, he casually said with a light smile, "I''ll guess... you''re from... the Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu''s statement sounded like a truism.


    If someone else were beside them, they would probably think Qiu Tu was mental: as an agent of the Political Department, of course Liu Fuping would be backed by the Investigation Bureau.


    But... Liu Fuping immediately understood what Qiu Tu meant, so her complexion couldn''t help but change.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu teasingly smiled and gently patted Liu Fuping''s shoulder, "Looks like I guessed correctly."


    "Let me guess which city''s Investigation Bureau you belong to around Xinjie City?"


    Liu Fuping, upon hearing this, stared intently at Qiu Tu, as if she wanted to personally witness him guess wrong.


    But Qiu Tu clearly disappointed her, "Eastern City Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu, with a smile in his eyes, continued, "Am I right? Agent Liu from the Political Department of the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    Even as she tried her best to conceal it, Liu Fuping''s pupils contracted slightly, and her body stiffened for a moment when Qiu Tu revealed her identity.


    After a moment, she smiled radiantly, denying, "The superior is joking. I''m just an ordinary agent from our Xinjie City. I''m certainly not some spy from another city''s Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu smiled and lifted Liu Fuping''s chin, asking, "So, are you trying to back out of the deal?"


    Liu Fuping giggled twice and replied, "Not really."


    Speaking, she stepped back, disengaging from Qiu Tu''s flirtatious advances, and asked, "I''m just a bit curious why the superior thinks I''m from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau? Do you have any evidence, or... is it just a random guess?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping step back, Qiu Tu didn''t follow. While walking to the table and tidying up the documents, he said with a laugh, "People like us who work on the secret front must always be keen to notice details and analyze information."


    "First of all, City Hall is very concerned with the ''Yin Caimei case,'' but you didn''t seem to take it seriously. Plus, City Hall clearly has no idea about the progress of my case; otherwise, they wouldn''t have been unprepared today."


    "Therefore, you''re not likely to be City Hall''s spy."


    Liu Fuping nodded thoughtfully upon hearing this.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Next, you''re not a member of the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    "The reason is similar to that of City Hall: Yin Caimei is a key figure in the Anti-government Armed Forces. Whether it''s to save her, kill her, or to use the opportunity to create discord among the three main authorities of Xinjie City, you have too many reasons to be invested in this case."


    "But you, yet again, were not..."


    "Moreover, the first time you revealed your identity as a spy in front of me, even though you seemed a bit panicked, there was no fear or confusion."


    "This indicates that you know even if your identity is exposed, you can get the necessary protection, with no threat to your life."


    "Such confidence in one''s own identity isn''t something that a spy from the Anti-government Armed Forces could possess." Explore hidden tales at empire


    Liu Fuping looked a bit surprised, clearly not expecting Qiu Tu to still remember that night when her identity was tricked out of her long ago.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had finished tidying up the documents on the table. As he packed the materials into a file bag, he continued his analysis, "Furthermore, you''re not a spy from The military."


    "The reason is quite simple; your role as a spy is clearly aimed at Director Tang."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu glanced at her and then said with a smile, "But I happen to know who The military''s spy is around Director Tang."

 Chapter 112 Discovering Liu Fupings True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    "During the initial establishment of Xinjie City, each agency had very few inside agents, and they had to maximize their effectiveness. Therefore, the probability of placing two moles beside Director Tang at the same time is too small."Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping was startled and suddenly realized that Qiu Tu indeed seemed to have logically and methodically eliminated all the distracting options.


    But she still felt somewhat unconvinced.


    She asked, "Then why do you guess that I am a mole sent by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    Qiu Tu smiled.


    "It''s quite simple. You are not a mole for the Anti-government Armed Forces, so you can only be a mole from one of the three major power institutions. And since you are not a mole from the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, you can only be a mole from another city."


    "Your interrogation skills are sophisticated, your methods cruel, and you are extremely familiar with the various regulations of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Therefore, I speculate you''re likely a colleague. In other words... you are also an agent of the Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu said, "Coincidentally, someone once talked to me about the situation of the cities surrounding Xinjie."


    "He mentioned that the chiefs of the Investigation Bureaus in the six or seven cities around Xinjie City have good relationships with Yan Chen. Only Director Liu from [Eastern City] and Yan Chen have some enmity."


    "Thus, your likelihood of being a mole from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau has increased significantly."


    Speaking of which, Qiu Tu patted the documents he had placed on the table and said with a smile, "And what really confirmed your identity was the unusual behavior you exhibited today."


    "Knowing you were a mole and worried about a leak, I deliberately did not inform you when executing the entire arrest plan today."


    "Yet, you rushed over here on your own and, uncharacteristically, started sifting through the files related to the ''Yin Caimei Case.''"


    Qiu Tu walked over to the window, gazing at the continuous drizzle outside, and began to muse aloud,


    "You never cared about this case before, so why have you suddenly become interested in it now?"


    "Very simple, because... the power behind you has suddenly taken an interest."


    "But why weren''t they interested before, and now they suddenly are?"


    Qiu Tu turned around, smiling at Liu Fuping, "Because... I made a big fuss today. Xinjie City Hall took a vehement stance, opposing our Investigation Bureau."


    "The power behind you suddenly realized this might be an opportunity to strike at Yan Chen or to cause him trouble."


    "Therefore, they sent you to steal secrets."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu laughingly asked, "I wonder, am I right or wrong, Agent Liu from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +10]


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu with a complex expression in her eyes.


    Indeed, Qiu Tu''s analysis was well-founded and logically meticulous. It was only after she listened carefully that she realized she had unwittingly exposed so much information in her daily interactions with Qiu Tu.


    This discovery also made her aware once again of the gap between herself and Qiu Tu.


    She couldn''t help but reflect: if she were in Qiu Tu''s shoes, encountering herself, could she deduce her own identity from such minimal and fragmented information?


    No sooner had this thought arisen than she knew the answer: No. She would not even have noticed those small, fragmented pieces of information.


    As she thought this, she looked at Qiu Tu with passionate, peach-blossom eyes, thinking... perhaps it wouldn''t be so bad to keep learning from Qiu Tu?


    If Qiu Tu were willing to share his knowledge, perhaps in no time at all, she could become a qualified spy and agent?


    With that in mind, she threw Qiu Tu a coquettishly annoyed glance and said, "I owe you four nights."


    After speaking, she turned to leave.


    Just then, Qiu Tu''s voice came from behind her, "Six nights."


    Liu Fuping stumbled, almost falling over. She turned back and gave Qiu Tu an irritated look.


    Qiu Tu held up two fingers, "And it''s for two people."


    A blush spread across Liu Fuping''s face, and with a light huff, she turned and walked away.


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +2]


    With a smile, Qiu Tu watched Liu Fuping''s retreating figure, a thoughtful expression in his eyes.


    He had spent half a day playing around with Liu Fuping amidst his busy schedule for a reason of his own.


    If he remembered correctly, Secretary Bai had indeed solemnly mentioned that the Chief of the Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Yan Chen didn''t get along.


    Secretary Bai even hinted that if Qiu Tu was to flee, he could head in the direction of Eastern City.


    Moreover, the fact that the Eastern City Investigation Bureau had planted a spy within their sibling unit, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, was enough to show that their relationship had reached a point of extreme animosity.


    Qiu Tu now openly relied on himself and covertly on Tang Feifei to keep Jia Shu in check, but... he had no way of dealing with Yan Chen.


    And in Xinjie City, while the relationship between the three giants of City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and the military wasn''t harmonious, it hadn''t reached the point of open confrontation, leaving Qiu Tu no external forces to borrow from.


    So... once he guessed the power behind Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu became interested.


    If he couldn''t borrow power from within Xinjie City, could he introduce an external force to balance or deal with Yan Chen?


    Thus, Qiu Tu was direct in exposing Liu Fuping''s identity today.


    Moreover, this was just the first step of Qiu Tu''s plan. It was the preparation he made in advance to deal with Yan Chen.


    Next, Qiu Tu would make more contact with Liu Fuping, slowly pulling her and the forces behind her into his camp, and amassing more strength. Until... he could take down Yan Chen!


    Though it was still early for this matter, a "chess player" must have the quality of thinking ten steps ahead while taking one. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu pressed the matter to the back of his mind and picked up the organized files on the desk, heading towards the Guard Room.


    It was time to see the fruits of today''s efforts.


    And... it was time for the Yin Caimei case to come to an end.


    ...


    Accompanied by the "hustle and bustle" of the rain, Qiu Tu arrived at the Political Department''s Guard Room.


    At this time, his confidants Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Ding Xiaoliu, and Zhu Huoyan were already waiting there.


    Perhaps because they had suddenly arrested so many prominent figures, they were excited, agitated, as well as wandering and uneasy, and could only relieve the pressure by talking to each other.


    "Do you think... after capturing the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin, we won''t run into any trouble?"


    "There shouldn''t be any, right?... Our boss has a special arrest warrant and authorization letter specially authorized by the Investigation Bureau Chief. Everything we do is legal and legitimate, no one can find fault..."


    "Indeed, it''s legal and legitimate, but... if we can''t extract any useful information from their mouths, and if they take revenge on us after being released, what then?"


    "Don''t overthink it. That won''t happen."


    "I heard that City Hall is very angry about our arrests of these wealthy businessmen and the section chief, and they''ve been putting pressure on our bureau. We might not have much time for interrogation..."


    "This case is a bit complicated, and it may not be possible to get results in a short period of time."


    "Exactly."


    Having become a Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu''s vision and hearing had improved a lot compared to before.


    So even at a distance, he could clearly hear the worried chatter of his confidants.


    But he didn''t say anything and confidently walked into the guard area with his documents and files.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu arrive, the few confidants who were quietly conversing immediately stopped their chat, and persons like Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Eagle swiftly stood up to greet him. Experience tales with empire


    Seeing them, Qiu Tu immediately praised with a smile, "You''ve all worked hard."


    Then he glanced over the twenty or so confidants present and noticed their nervousness.


    He didn''t let everyone linger in that atmosphere and instead swiftly boosted morale.


    -------


    It''s still 3 chapters, 10k characters. I''ll update 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter which I am still writing will be posted around 12 o''clock.

 Chapter 113 Case Solved in Two Minutes (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "After we wrap up this case, I''ll treat everyone to a good meal! I''ll give everyone a holiday! And I''ll hand out a big red envelope to each person!"People always have desires.


    No matter in which era or world, work is for the sake of a better life.


    Especially in times of chaos with no unified government and without so much sense of homeland, there are only eight words that matter: survive and live well!


    Therefore, offering money, vacations, and meals is the simplest and most effective way to win people''s hearts and boost morale!


    So, visibly, the likes of Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu, and Zhu Huoyan all showed expressions of joy on their faces.


    One after another they shouted, "Thank you, commander!" "Thanks, Chief!" "Thanks, Brother Tu!" louder than the next!


    In front of Qiu Tu, a series of prompts like [Loyalty +1, +2] popped up.


    Qiu Tu, seeing this, paid no mind but continued, "As for the case, you all don''t need to worry."


    "I will personally review the case and strive to clarify everything today."


    Maybe because Qiu Tu''s statement was too exaggerated, his confidants, one by one, all looked a bit surprised.


    ''Clear up the case today?''


    ''How could that be possible?''


    Most of the confidants present were members of the investigative team, so they knew just how perplexing and complex the case was.


    The deceased had no fatal injuries, no residue of lethal drugs; the cause of death was sudden cardiac arrest. In these chaotic times, this was almost an insoluble mystery.


    And although the fact that the deceased was a spy within the anti-government armed forces was certainly established, her superiors and subordinates had not yet been exposed.


    Everyone knew that collusion with the anti-government armed forces was a capital offence. So... even if the suspects caught today really included her superiors and subordinates, they would not admit it to save their own lives.


    Thus... most investigators considered this case a long-term tug of war; this was the source of their anxiety.


    Now, Qiu Tu suddenly claimed he could solve the case today?


    Even though during this time, Qiu Tu had built up a great image in everyone''s hearts, they couldn''t help but doubt it the first thing in their minds...


    Among the confidants, the most tactful Cao Dabiao even took the initiative to offer Qiu Tu an out.


    He said with a sly grin, "Commander, don''t set such an exaggerated plan. We know you''re mighty, and we believe you can do it, but it will also put a lot of pressure on us."


    "Let''s take our time investigating, shall we not be too hasty?"


    Qiu Tu, being a perceptive person, immediately understood Cao Dabiao''s thinking upon hearing his words.


    After scanning the eyes of the investigators present and seeing through their thoughts, he did not refute Cao Dabiao''s kindness but instead went along with it and said, "Haha, alright. Since you''ve brought it up, then we''ll take our time and not rush."


    "That''s more like it, Commander!" Cao Dabiao chuckled "hehe," behaving very obsequiously.


    Qiu Tu laughed and patted his shoulder before once again scanning the investigators present.


    Indeed, hearing that Qiu Tu had withdrawn his exaggerated plan, all the investigators couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief, no longer so worried.


    Seeing this reaction, Qiu Tu did not say much.


    He knew his confidants had his best interests at heart. But... what they did not know was that Cataclysmics and ordinary people truly had an unbridgeable chasm between them!


    To them, a case that seemed incredibly difficult, to Qiu Tu, might be incredibly simple.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu pondered briefly before calling out a few names, "Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun."


    As Qiu Tu called their names, the four confidants stepped forward.


    Qiu Tu instructed, "You will join me in interrogating the prisoners."


    "Yes, Brother Tu!" "Yes, Commander!" all four responded.


    Qiu Tu then turned to Liu Fuping, who had slipped in unnoticed at some point, and summoned, "Liu Fuping, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the three stepped forward.


    Qiu Tu instructed, "You will be in charge of managing the external work. Escorting and guarding the prisoners, these responsibilities will all fall to you."


    "I have only one requirement: ensure there is a continuous flow of prisoners in the interrogation room!"


    Stay connected via empire


    "My time is precious! It cannot be wasted!"


    The three clearly did not fully grasp Qiu Tu''s meaning, but still nodded their heads and agreed, "Yes, Commander!"


    After these arrangements, Qiu Tu called out a few other names. Some were instructed to prepare the interrogation room, others to set up recording equipment, and yet others to coordinate with the Special Service Department, ready to mobilize at any moment to search for evidence. In short, he meticulously arranged everything down to the smallest detail.


    And among these preparations, perhaps the most peculiar was this: for such an important case, Qiu Tu chose not to use a large interrogation room but specifically requested a small one of only a few square meters...


    Yet, trusting in Qiu Tu, the investigators raised no objections and began preparations following Qiu Tu''s directions.


    Soon, the entire investigative team was running as smoothly and swiftly as clockwork...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Emerald Fort, the observation deck on the 6th floor of the racetrack.


    As an area accessible only to the real power figures like the Deputy Director, the Bureau Chief, the members of the Municipal Committee, and the City Hall, it was subtly yet lavishly decorated.


    Apart from the public area''s hall, almost every bigwig who could enter this level had a separate suite.


    Inside, every conceivable item was available, and should there be any additional needs, the staff of the Emerald Fort would even go out and make purchases directly.


    At this moment, Tang Feifei was sitting in her suite, quietly sipping wine while listening to the report of her assistant, Su Xiaowan.


    "Bureau Chief, Chief Qiu acted exceptionally swiftly this time. In just a few short minutes, he managed to arrest all the Four Major Transportation Merchants, Director Qin Zhengguang, and Third Master Qin."


    "And that''s not all. I found out that Chief Qiu was actually attending a gathering invited by Chief Huang, along with several section chiefs from the City Hall."


    "However, halfway through the gathering, Chief Qiu suddenly arrested all of them as well and brought them to the Investigation Bureau."


    Su Xiaowan paused before adding, "Now Chief Qiu has rushed back to the Investigation Bureau, and it''s said he''s going to personally interrogate these suspects."


    After listening to Su Xiaowan''s report, Tang Feifei waved her hand emotionlessly with her wheat-colored face.


    Su Xiaowan bowed slightly and then exited to the outer part of the suite, leaving Tang Feifei alone.


    Seeing Su Xiaowan leave, Tang Feifei then got up from the sofa. She tidied her short hair and walked with her wine glass to the floor-to-ceiling windows of the suite. As she admired the heavy rain outside, a meaningful smile appeared on her face.


    ''Not bad at all, little man....''


    ''I didn''t expect you to withstand the pressure without my help.''


    ''Then, continue to show me your capabilities....''


    Having said this, a faint amber glow flickered in the depths of her pupils, and her wheat-colored face was filled with anticipation for her prey....


    .....


    When loyalty increased, the efficiency with which the subordinates handled their tasks also noticeably improved.


    Thus, under one command from Qiu Tu, a small interrogation room was quickly set up.


    After installing the video and audio equipment and preparing the interrogation table, the interrogation began without delay.


    Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao, and Chen Feng took their seats at the interrogation table, Ah-Kun handled the recording of video and audio, while Eagle was responsible for conveying messages.


    Qiu Tu went through the list of suspects he was planning to interrogate today and, after confirming the questions he wanted to ask, he turned to Eagle and gave an order, "Bring Qian Dafu for questioning and have Qi Yun prepare."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Eagle hurried out to make arrangements.


    Soon after, Eagle returned, followed by another door being opened from the outside: Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan escorted Qian Dafu into the interrogation room.


    They handcuffed Qian Dafu to the suspect''s seat, saluted Qiu Tu, and then left the room.


    Qian Dafu was not as weak as his wife; he was clearly a tough nut to crack.


    Even now, trapped in his plight, he spoke arrogantly, "I''m telling you! My father-in-law is Director Bai, and I know many members of the Municipal Committee too!"


    "You barging into my house and capturing me is far from over!" Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Once I get out, I''ll make sure each of you is peeled of that ''skin'' you wear! Let''s see if you can still strut around with undue authority without it!"


    Seeing how arrogant Qian Dafu was, the faces of Chen Feng and Eagle darkened, and Cao Dabiao also looked indignant. Ah-Kun... even wanted to step forward to give Qian Dafu a taste of pain.


    However, after Ah-Kun took two steps, Qiu Tu stopped him, "Ah-Kun, don''t cause trouble."


    Ah-Kun glared at Qian Dafu before returning to his original position.


    Qiu Tu, on the other hand, glanced at his documents and then said expressionlessly, "Qian Dafu, I''m going to start your first interrogation now."


    "Whatever I ask, please answer accordingly."


    Qian Dafu cocked his head and scoffed, "I won''t say a thing. Someone will come to save me."


    Qiu Tu, "Did you kill Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu, "I killed her."


    Seeing Qian Dafu''s defiance just a moment ago, and his outright refusal to cooperate, Cao Dabiao, Eagle, and the others were ready to step forward and beat him¡ªthis case could already proceed with a confession under duress.


    However, when they heard Qiu Tu ask whether Qian Dafu killed Yin Caimei and he swiftly admitted it, they were all dumbfounded.


    Wait a minute, did I hear that wrong?


    Shouldn''t Qian Dafu have denied it?


    At that moment, Qiu Tu, with no trace of emotion, asked, "Please face the camera and repeat what you just said. Did you kill Yin Caimei or not?"


    Sitting upright and facing the camera with a serious expression, Qian Dafu said, "I killed Yin Caimei."


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun: ???


    This... is the case cracked?


    Is this for real?


    They looked at Qian Dafu, then at Qiu Tu in confusion; it felt like something they were unaware of had happened, but they didn''t know what...


    -----


    Third update with 10k words, haha. Chapter 3 is still being written and will be posted around 12 am. Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 114 Somethings Wrong with This Interrogation (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    But at this time, Qiu Tu paid no attention to their shock and suspicion.Their doubts would be answered during the following interrogation, but not now.


    What Qiu Tu needed to do now was to interrogate all the prisoners as quickly as possible, secure the testimony and evidence, and then lift his Cataclysmic ability.


    Indeed, for the interrogation this time, Qiu Tu had also invested heavily. He had directly activated his Cataclysmic ability¡ª"Order Space."


    Moreover, the rule he set today was that "within the Order Space, everyone must tell the truth in response to his questions."


    Such a straightforward setting brought about terrifying effects.


    Qian Dafu was so arrogant at the beginning, so uncooperative, but when faced with the rule set by the Cataclysmic ability, he could only reluctantly tell the truth, despite being extremely unwilling.


    This was the dimensional strike of the Cataclysmics on ordinary people.


    As Qiu Tu marveled at the strength of the Cataclysmics and the Cataclysmic treasures, he continued to ask, "What method did you use to kill Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu''s face clearly revealed a look of conflict and fear; he clearly didn''t want to answer Qiu Tu''s question, but... under the effect of the Cataclysmic ability, he was forced to honestly confess his crime.


    "I... I gave Yin Caimei a gift at a gathering once. It was... a book, a Banned Book."


    "It was a Banned Book accompanied by a Catastrophe Curse. As long as one looks through it for a long period, the soul would gradually be eroded, and then with a remote command from me, I could manipulate her health, even... her life."


    Qiu Tu listened to Qian Dafu''s account with an expressionless face, nodded slightly, feeling that the truth behind Yin Caimei''s death was almost as he had guessed and deduced, and was not beyond his expectations.


    But at this moment, the thoughts of Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, and Ah-Kun, who were by his side, were entirely different from his.


    What? Banned Book? Catastrophe Curse?


    Long-time reading erodes the soul? A single command can cause death?


    What on earth is all this about!


    If they weren''t certain they hadn''t gone mad, the four of them would have even started to wonder if there was something wrong with their sanity.


    They looked at Qian Dafu and then at Qiu Tu several times, trying to understand what exactly was happening.


    Then they saw that Qiu Tu was not the least bit surprised, and even continued to ask questions indifferently. This discovery gradually led them to speculate: this case seemed to have a tremendous "inside story."


    And this "inside story", Brother Tu/the chief probably knew all along, hence his lack of surprise!


    With this thought, their hearts settled slightly, and they continued to listen to the conversation between Qiu Tu and Qian Dafu.


    Qiu Tu asked, "How did you remotely control the death of Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu sincerely replied, "That set of Cataclysmic treasures consisted of two pieces, both printed out by the ''Cursed Printer'', one being a book and the other a notebook, named ''Cursed Blueprint''."


    "As long as you write down the health conditions of the person on the notebook, the person who possesses the book will be subjected to the corresponding curse."


    "After learning that Yin Caimei had been captured by the Political Department, I was worried she would leak our secrets. So, I wrote in the notebook the condition ''sudden cardiac death after 10 hours''."


    "In this way, as long as she came into contact with the book, and there were no treasures nearby to shield against Catastrophe Powers, the curse would be planted, and she would die suddenly 10 hours later."


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and continued to inquire, "Where is that notebook now?"


    Qian Dafu said, "It''s in a safe in a hidden compartment in my basement."


    Qiu Tu asked, "The safe''s combination."


    Qian Dafu replied, "486883284."


    Qiu Tu took a pen and paper, wrote down the relevant information, then casually passed it to Eagle.


    By this point, Eagle was already dumbfounded.


    Compared to Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, who had been working in the Political Department for a long time, he and Ah-Kun had only recently joined. So this was his first time participating in an interrogation by the Political Department.


    Seeing Qian Dafu, who had been so arrogant just before, now answering every question under the influence of some unknown power, he had only one thought:


    Is every interrogation this dramatic in the Political Department?


    No wonder all the powers in Xinjie City are terrified of the Political Department!


    If he had this kind of ability, he would keep all his enemies awake at night!


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu handed him the note, he first paused, then returned to his senses, accepted the note, and quickly left the interrogation room to arrange for the "Field Operations Team" waiting outside to retrieve the evidence.


    After doing all this, Eagle stood at the entrance of the interrogation room for two seconds, suppressing the intense heartbeat that had started earlier, then hurried back into the interrogation room, afraid to miss any part of the interrogation process.


    Because in those two seconds, he also realized that something was off about this interrogation!


    Qiu Tu could easily interrogate all the prisoners by himself, so why did he need to call the four of them in to assist?


    Was Qiu Tu trying to show them another side of this world through this method? A new Xinjie... with various supernatural powers!


    No ordinary person could resist the allure of supernatural power, and Eagle was no exception.


    So he was tempted. He knew that this might be the second chance to change his life!


    Therefore, he had to seize this opportunity.


    With this thought, Eagle hurried back to the interrogation room.


    Fortunately, he hadn''t missed anything. As soon as he stepped into the interrogation room, he heard Qiu Tu ask, "Where did you obtain that set of Cataclysmic treasures?"


    Hearing this question, Eagle also couldn''t help but listen intently.


    Qian Dafu''s face showed even more struggle, but he still uncontrollably spoke the truth, "From the Qin Family. It was given to me by Third Master Qin."


    Upon hearing this, Eagle looked up in surprise at Qiu Tu.


    However, what surprised him was that Qiu Tu seemed to have anticipated this, showing no surprise but instead continued to ask calmly, "Then do you have contact or cooperation with the United Front and other anti-government armed forces?"


    Qian Dafu looked like he was about to give up, he nodded woodly, "Yes, there''s contact, and there is cooperation."


    He detailed it bit by bit, "After all, Xinjie City has just been designated a Planning Area; previously, it was all under the influence of anti-government armed forces, so we naturally had contact with them."


    "And inter-city trade requires a long and arduous journey. During this period, anti-government armed forces can either protect us or plunder us at any time, so we must have a good relationship with them."


    Qiu Tu asked, "What kind of relationship?" S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qian Dafu confessed, "We cooperate with the anti-government forces providing them with a large number of supplies, medicines, and weapons..."


    "And they pay us a price 50% higher than the market rate and ensure the security of our inter-city trade."


    "So we often purchase supplies in the Planning Area and then sell the goods to the anti-government armed forces using robbery as an excuse."


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s confession, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Eagle couldn''t hide the change in their expressions.


    It wasn''t that their looks turned sour, but rather they looked exceptionally pleased¡ªbecause with this information, they immediately knew they had uncovered a major case!


    A major transporter colluding with anti-government armed forces! If this case was not considered big, then there would hardly be any bigger ones out there!


    But, Qiu Tu didn''t seem to think the same.


    He continued to ask, "What about the other transporters?"


    Qian Dafu struggled, "They are also involved..."


    "Whew!" Cao Dabiao was the least able to contain himself; he took a deep breath, his face barely able to hide his excitement.


    Meanwhile, Eagle and Ah-Kun kept exchanging glances, trying to see if their hearing was playing tricks on them.


    But at this time, Qiu Tu was still not finished.


    He looked at Qian Dafu with a cold gaze, "What about the Qin Family?"


    As Qiu Tu posed this question, Qian Dafu''s complexion almost broke into tears as he said, "They''re involved."


    "Holy shit..." Ah-Kun nearly blurted out the curse.


    By now, Cao Dabiao was dumbstruck, while even the usually calm and collected Eagle and Chen Feng showed looks of shock!


    The Four Major Transportation Merchants facilitating benefits to anti-government armed forces was already a big case. Now, with the involvement of one of Xinjie City''s biggest families, the Qin Family, the case was akin to a full-blown bombshell!


    Qiu Tu quietly looked at Qian Dafu for two seconds, then asked, "Is Vice President Tian involved?"


    This time, Qian Dafu''s face showed obvious confusion. After seeming to recall for a moment, he then said, "I''m not sure. He''s always kept his distance from us, never participating in our gatherings."


    "Even when there''s business, it''s always the Qin Family who contacts him." Discover hidden content at empire


    "So, I don''t know whether he''s actually involved in this, whether it''s a reciprocal trade, or... if he''s being used."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded. Getting so much information from Qian Dafu was already more than enough.


    His "Cataclysmic ability" only allowed him to hear the "truth," not "the whole truth," so he still had to find other criminals to supplement and verify the things Qian Dafu had reported, checking for any incorrect or missing new details.


    Thinking this, he signaled to Eagle.


    Eagle nodded and quickly went out to have Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan bring in the next suspect.


    And seeing him come out two or three times in such a short span, Liu Fuping, who had been coordinating from outside all this time, had a glint in her eye, then took the initiative to approach and ask, "Is the interrogation going smoothly?"


    Qiu Tu had Eagle relay messages back and forth precisely because he knew he could trust his discretion.


    So, when faced with Liu Fuping''s question, Eagle just smiled and said in a noncommittal manner, "Well enough, I suppose."


    Liu Fuping, upon hearing this, looked at Eagle without showing any emotion, guessing in her heart: It seems... things are not going well.


    She wasn''t surprised, though.


    After all, the people undergoing interrogation today were all wealthy and powerful, and each had their backgrounds and strengths; they wouldn''t yield valuable information in just a few words.


    Qiu Tu was a person, not a god, and had to follow objective laws.


    However, just as she thought this, Qian Dafu was also brought out by Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan, clearly distressed. He shouted loudly towards the interrogation room, "Devil! You''re a devil!"


    "You have no right! Illegal interrogation! I''ll sue you! Sue you!"


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s fearful shouts, the agents present couldn''t help but look over, while Liu Fuping was also momentarily dumbfounded, her face filled with confusion.


    ------


    Staying up until 5 am, I finally managed to write it in advance, tens of thousands of words asking for subscription, asking for Monthly Tickets!


    I''m going to sleep... will continue the ten thousand words tomorrow!

 Chapter 115 Qin Family Makes a Move! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    As a seasoned investigator who had been working in the Interrogation Section for over a year, Liu Fuping was no stranger to such shouting and cursing.Many critical suspects, when stripped of important information and clues, would often bark powerlessly like this.


    Therefore, this kind of cursing and shouting was actually what interrogators most wanted to hear: a sound akin to the trumpet of victory.


    But now... hearing it from Qian Dafu''s mouth left Liu Fuping somewhat puzzled: Didn''t they say progress wasn''t going smoothly? How did the suspect crack so easily?


    Thinking this, she cast a slightly perplexed look at Eagle. What she saw was not a hint of surprise on Eagle''s face but an expression as if everything was within his expectations.


    Liu Fuping was momentarily taken aback. She realized what was happening in the next second.


    ''Just like the superior, so are the subordinates!''


    Liu Fuping cursed inwardly. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Initially, she thought Eagle was a silent and honest person, which was why she approached him to glean some intelligence. Who knew he was also someone who had picked up some of Qiu Tu''s shamelessness...


    Of course... she didn''t realize her words actually implicated herself as well... Enjoy new stories from empire


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    The interrogation in the room was still ongoing.


    Under Qiu Tu''s arrangement, the switch of suspects was almost seamless: Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan had just escorted Qian Dafu out, and Li Xian and Jiao Ming brought the next transporter, Qi Yun, in.


    Qi Yun, perhaps having witnessed Qian Dafu''s cursing and wailing upon entering the interrogation room, was much more cooperative than Qian Dafu from the outset.


    He sat in the interrogation chair, watched Qian Dafu leave, then squeezed out a smile toward Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu, hello, I''m Qi Yun."


    Qiu Tu glanced at him, and when the door of the interrogation room closed, he casually asked, "You actually know me?"


    Qi Yun''s agreeable attitude was clearly born from a desire to flatter Qiu Tu to suffer less. However, the words that came to his mouth involuntarily revealed his true thoughts.


    "Of course. Ever since we heard that you took over the ''Yin Caimei case,'' we''ve been researching your information every day."


    "How could we sleep peacefully without knowing our enemies as well as ourselves?"


    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Cao Dabiao, Ah-Kun, and Eagle in the interrogation room could hardly contain their laughter.


    Even knowing Qiu Tu''s ability to make people speak the truth, hearing such a candid response still carried an inexplicable sense of amusement.


    At that moment, however, Qi Yun found nothing funny about the situation. He looked horrified, trying to cover his mouth to stop himself from blurting out anything further.


    But just as he raised his hand, he realized that Qiu Tu had made thorough preparations ¡ª the hands of the prisoners would be locked to the table once they entered the interrogation room.


    In that moment, Qi Yun finally understood Qian Dafu''s terror!


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of fear, wanting to question what Qiu Tu had done to him and why he was uncontrollably spilling words he didn''t want to say!


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give him the chance and began a relentless barrage of questions.


    So, under the control of his Cataclysmic ability, Qi Yun had no choice but to completely spill everything he knew.


    What he revealed was similar to Qian Dafu''s information. The transportation industry, by nature, operated in a gray area, especially amidst chaos.


    They not only maintained their own private militia, engaged in legitimate transportation but also occasionally indulged in black-market dealings.


    Under such circumstances, it was inevitable that they would have contacts with the Anti-government Armed Forces like the United Front.


    The two sides depended on each other and cooperated. So when the United Front offered to buy supplies at prices 50% higher than the market rate, doubling their profits, they naturally chose to take the risk.


    He also disclosed the relationship between the Four Major Transportation Merchants and the Qin Family.


    According to him, the Qin Family was the contact point for the Four Major Transportation Merchants with the United Front, and it was they who also controlled the Four Major Transportation Merchants.


    After all, given the longstanding and deep-rooted presence of the Qin Family in Xinjie City, controlling an entire industry was rather straightforward.


    After the interrogation of Qi Yun, Qiu Tu had a very accurate grasp of the identities of the Four Major Transportation Merchants: he and Qin Shuman hadn''t guessed wrong; the Four Major Transportation Merchants were indeed the Qin Family''s true operatives.


    It seemed as if Old Master Qin had handed over various gray and black industries to Master Qin Si merely as a distraction. The Qin Family''s true illicit businesses and private militia had long been split into four, decentralized, and joined the Four Major Transportation Merchants under the guise of transportation personnel.


    This discovery immediately put Qiu Tu on high alert: The Qin Family undoubtedly had significant hidden forces in the background.


    In this case, although the Qin Family might not break completely in the short term,


    But if this drags on for even a little longer, and the Qin Family senses something is wrong, they could remotely command this private militia to cause trouble in Xinjie City or even act against Qiu Tu.


    At that time, a storm of blood and violence could sweep through Xinjie City!


    By then, even if the Investigation Bureau and the military managed to forcefully suppress the situation, as the instigator of the entire affair, Qiu Tu would not be spared punishment!


    He might very well become the final sacrifice of the incident, offered up to appease the anger of both sides.

 Chapter 115 Qin Family Makes a Move! (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Politics has never been about justice, only interests!A minor deputy staff head, compared with the Qin Family that wields immense influence in Xinjie City, is really inconsequential!


    Qiu Tu realized this point, and the sharp-witted Eagle and Chen Feng obviously could think of it as well.


    Therefore, both of them looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of concern.


    Qiu Tu sensed their gaze, but he didn''t say anything, instead, he gave them a reassuring expression. After clarifying the whole matter, he understood: he was now in a race against time, competing with the Qin Family!


    Once the gun had been fired, there was no taking back the bullet!


    So, no matter how much pressure lay ahead, he had to keep going!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu rapped on the interrogation table and said, "Bring in Third Master Qin for questioning!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu abruptly change the order of the interrogations, Eagle immediately guessed that Qiu Tu was adjusting the interrogation plan, so he hurriedly ran out to switch the suspects.


    Soon, Qi Yun, looking dejected, was taken away, and Third Master Qin, Qin Shu, was brought in by the investigators.


    Compared to Qian Dafu''s bluster masking incompetence, and Qi Yun''s obsequiousness, Qin Shu was evidently much calmer.


    He sat down at the interrogation table as if certain his family would rescue him, calmly allowing his hands to be cuffed, then calmly regarded Qiu Tu...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Qin Family''s Main Residence.


    After the raging fire from a few days ago, the Qin Family''s Main Residence was clearly more dilapidated.


    Even though the Qin Family''s workers had been continuously rebuilding and repairing, there were still numerous black and crimson marks left by the flames.


    Perhaps with the passage of time, and as the Qin Family''s legacy was passed down through the generations, these marks might become an inscription of the Qin Family''s long history and legendary years. But for now, they remained a humiliation for the Qin Family. Experience exclusive tales on empire


    And within the main estate once scorched by flames, Commissioner Qin, Qin Heng, sat in an intricately carved mahogany armchair, holding a communicator, and was chatting with a faint smile to someone on the other end.


    On the other end of the communicator was his subordinate, Bai Ru''s father, Qian Dafu''s father-in-law: Bai Yongdong.


    Having his daughter and son-in-law arrested, his emotions were clearly agitated, "Commissioner! Just who is this Qiu Tu? In all the years I''ve been in Xinjie, I''ve never seen anyone as brazen as him!"


    "It''s bad enough that they''ve arrested one of the Four Major Transportation Merchants, but a deputy head from the Investigation Bureau dares to arrest a department head from the City Hall!"


    "This is truly lawless!"


    "Shouldn''t we take action and warn these youngsters? Otherwise, I think they might really climb atop us and defecate," he said.


    Hearing Bai Yongdong''s words, Commissioner Qin covered his mouth and coughed a bit forcefully a couple of times before slowly saying, "Yongdong, you''re an adult, don''t be so hot-tempered."


    "Regarding this matter, I''ve already phoned Director Yan and Minister Jia."


    "They assured us not to worry, saying this is just a minor incident, the actions of subordinates getting out of line, and they''ve severely reprimanded that junior staff head." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But... after all, the arrest has just been made, and if the Investigation Bureau releases them immediately, it would be a loss of face. So they asked us to wait one day, and by tomorrow, this will be over," he added.


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s soothing words, Bai Yongdong noticeably relaxed and his mood eased.


    He said softly, "Sigh, you''ve really been put to trouble. Please take good care of your health."


    Bai Yongdong seemed to have extraordinary respect for Commissioner Qin.


    Commissioner Qin "hmmed" and said, "Alright, stop adding to the chaos, just wait for the news."


    As he spoke, it seemed as if something suddenly occurred to him, and he abruptly said, "By the way, Yongdong, your daughter... she doesn''t know about that matter, does she?"


    After a second''s pause, Bai Yongdong hurriedly said, "She doesn''t know, doesn''t know."


    "Rest assured, I haven''t told anyone about that matter," he assured.


    Upon hearing this, Commissioner Qin said, "That''s good. Then wait for the news in peace."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone.


    However, after hanging up the phone, Commissioner Qin coughed deeply twice. He didn''t display the ease he had shown on the phone. Gripping the communicator in hand, his gaze was neither joyful nor sorrowful, as if preoccupied by some heavy thoughts.


    After a while, he came back to his senses and suddenly called out, "Fugui."


    With his call, a middle-aged man hurried over, then bent over and asked, "Master, you were looking for me?"


    Commissioner Qin asked expressionlessly, "What''s the situation now?"


    The middle-aged man, looking troubled, responded, "The situation is somewhat complicated."


    "After your phone call with Director Yan, he promised to go and make inquiries, but we haven''t received a call back yet."


    "Minister Jia, on the other hand, did return a call, but only to placate us, saying that he''s already working on Qiu Tu."


    "Then, over at the Investigation Bureau... our agents in the Qin Family, as well as those we''ve planted or bribed, have been very diligent, constantly probing for information."


    "But... Qiu Tu is clearly on his guard. The entire interrogation area of the Political Department is now sealed off. Apart from the investigation team members, no one is allowed in."


    "So, we are completely in the dark about the progress inside."


    Hearing Fugui''s report, Qin Heng''s countenance was as dark as deep water.


    He reflected in silence for a moment, then finally said, "Go tell Lone Wolf it''s time to feast tonight."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Fugui''s complexion changed, and he exclaimed, "Master!"


    After shouting, he realized his voice may have been too loud, so he quickly lowered it and advised, "Master, that''s the Deputy Staff of the Political Department you''re talking about."


    "And he''s involved in handling such a sensitive case."


    "The whole of Xinjie City is watching him."


    "Just killing him like this will cause a big mess...."


    Qin Heng''s gaze shifted, but after a moment, he still made up his mind. Although he looked frail, his eyes were as sharp as a predator''s. He said resolutely, "When a lion fights a rabbit, it must use all its might!"


    "He''s a pawn pushed forward by those Old Foxes to entangle and contend with us. If we really follow the rhythm set by those Old Foxes, we''ll be dragged to death."


    "I''d rather face some backlash and utterly destroy him physically. To be rid of this trouble once and for all."


    "As long as we show our tough stance, and with the man dead, those Old Foxes will have no choice but to let go."


    "When the time comes, we could just cede some more benefits to them to shut them up. That''s still better than having them control the pace."


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s words, Fugui pondered for two seconds, then nodded slightly, responding, "Yes, Master, I''ll arrange it right away."


    After speaking, he inquired, "Then... when should Lone Wolf make his move?"


    Commissioner Qin hesitated briefly, his sickly pale face etched with ruthlessness, "Act as soon as possible. Have him use his ''Cataclysmic ability'' to disguise himself as an agent, infiltrate the Investigation Bureau, and take out Qiu Tu at the first opportunity!"


    Fugui, hearing this, frantically objected, "Master, that won''t do."


    He whispered, "Assassinating Qiu Tu is already going too far. If we kill him right in the Political Department, it''s practically slapping Director Yan and Minister Jia in the face."


    "Such an act would break all the rules. The entire Xinjie City would laugh at them, and even the Sanctuary might hold us accountable."


    "It would likely lead to an all-out conflict, turning a small issue into a major crisis...."


    Having said this, Fugui paused, then added softly, "Plus... people like Boss Qian are all savvy, they know what to say and what not to say."


    "They understand that if our business gets too big, coming clean would mean a dead end for them as well."


    "So, it''s unlikely Qiu Tu will be able to get results from the interrogation any time soon."


    "After all... he''s from the Political Department, not the Security Department. He doesn''t have ''Cataclysmic treasures'' or ''Cataclysmic abilities'' related to interrogation...."


    Listening to Fugui''s words, Qin Heng''s expression fluctuated, as if he were torn and hesitant....


    -----


    Today is still three updates of 10,000 words each, huh, the third chapter is still being written, but I''m a bit sleepy and want to sleep more, so... it''ll be updated around 1 AM if not earlier. I''m asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 116 The Truth Revealed (10,000 words, seeking monthly ticket)

    After a moment of deep thought, his reason had eventually triumphed over his emotion. Experience tales with empireHe slowly said, "Although I''ve always had some unease in my heart." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But, you''re right."


    "Qian Dafu and the rest are in the same boat as us. Exposing us would mean exposing themselves. It would be the end for all of us."


    "No matter what kind of threats or temptations, they''re useless in the face of death. So, they should be well aware of this."


    Having said that, he even reflected on himself, "Perhaps Qiu Tu acted too quickly, leaving me a bit overwhelmed. Sigh... I''m getting old. Cough cough."


    Seeing Qin Heng begin to cough and cover his mouth again, Fugui quickly walked over and poured him a cup of warm water.


    As he handed the water to Qin Heng, Fugui also comforted him, "Master, you are just worried and in disarray because of your care for the family."


    "Over the years, there have been numerous incidents in the Qin Family. Haven''t we overcome them all in the end?"


    "You''ve taught me before. With the Qin Family''s large family and businesses, and its deep roots, as long as we don''t act rashly, small breezes and little waves won''t bring down the Qin Family."


    "The real fear is if we disrupt our own ranks. Then it''s very likely that we''ll make mistakes in our haste and expose our weaknesses, leading to a major crisis."


    Hearing Fugui''s comforting words, Qin Heng drank a mouthful of warm water and said with emotion, "You''re right. My heart is a bit in chaos. Mistaking intuition for reason."


    After saying that, he seemed to recover his composure as the family master and then made arrangements, "Here''s what we''ll do: let Lone Wolf stand guard outside the Investigation Bureau. As soon as Qiu Tu leaves the Bureau, take him out immediately."


    "Also, prepare that cataclysmic treasure."


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s words, Fugui''s expression slightly changed.


    However, before he could speak, Commissioner Qin continued, "If the assassination of Qiu Tu is not successful or drags on too long, eliminate Qian Dafu and the rest immediately."


    Commissioner Qin''s gaze was deep as water, "I am not a heartless person, as long as Qiu Tu is dead, they will still be our good comrades."


    "But if Qiu Tu isn''t dead, then don''t blame me for not giving them a chance."


    "Yes, Master!" Fugui bowed.


    Having said this, Qin Heng placed the water cup on the table, and made a third arrangement, "Additionally, have Old Dog gather all the people we have under Qian Dafu''s control. Don''t let them sit idle either; give the Investigation Bureau something to worry about, apply some pressure."


    "Have some of them demonstrate in front of the Bureau''s doors. The rest can just cause some trouble in Xinjie City."


    "If Qiu Tu wants to make a big deal out of this, then we''ll create an even bigger scene!"


    Hearing this, a bright smile appeared on Fugui''s face, and he bowed, "Yes, Master."


    Once Qin Heng had finished making all his arrangements, Fugui straightened up and quickly walked outside.


    The "pitter-patter" of the heavy rain fell, landing in the main house''s courtyard, splashing up countless droplets.


    As Qin Heng watched Fugui leave in the rain, for some reason, he felt a bit uneasy.


    But, upon reflection, he couldn''t pinpoint where the problem lay.


    Sitting quietly and watching the rain for a while, he eventually attributed everything to a state of unrest due to the Qin Family''s recent string of incidents.


    The fourth had set a fire and escaped, his whereabouts unknown to this day, while the second and third had been taken by Qiu Tu.


    For a time, the family was left with only the fifth...


    Thinking this, Qin Heng heaved a deep sigh, then picked up the teacup again, drank some water, and silently chanted to himself, "Don''t rush, don''t rush, stay calm, stay calm"....


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau, Political Department, interrogation room.


    Qiu Tu watched Zhu Huoyan and Ding Xiaoliu carry the limp Third Brother Qin, who had collapsed on the table, out of the room.


    Compared to the seasoned Qian Dafu and Qi Yun, Third Brother Qin, who enjoyed the family''s influence as a second-generation heir, was clearly at a disadvantage.


    Initially, he was very calm in front of Qiu Tu, simply relying on his status, believing that Qiu Tu wouldn''t dare to torture him for a confession or use special drugs on him.


    But... when the effect of the cataclysmic ability descended upon him, he completely panicked. Fear and despair became clearly visible in him.


    And as Qiu Tu asked one question after another, he became even less able to cope. Qiu Tu hadn''t even finished the interrogation when he had already fainted from fear, collapsing on the table.


    Due to this unexpected incident, the interrogation could not proceed.


    It was at this moment that Qiu Tu realized he hadn''t been entirely thorough when setting up the rules.


    If a criminal fainted from fright, the "Truth" of the Order Space wouldn''t be effective: if a suspect was more ruthless, like biting off their own tongue or committing suicide, then it would probably be ineffective as well, right...?


    ```


    "From now on, when setting rules, we must be careful not to leave any loopholes."


    "These people are all pampered officials and wealthy merchants; they wouldn''t be too ruthless. But if we were interrogating die-hard loyalists, we would likely get nothing."


    ```


    Qiu Tu mulled this over as he also sorted through the intelligence he had extracted from Third Brother Qin.


    It had to be said that as a core member of the Qin family, Third Brother Qin was obviously more informed than the likes of Qian Dafu.


    According to his account, the Qin family had deep ties with the anti-government armed forces even during their early days of wealth accumulation. At that time, the Qin family used the resources left by their ancestors to develop quite well in Xinjie City but could never truly expand.


    This continued until about a decade ago when Old Master Qin, seeing no hope for the family''s revival, made a desperate gamble.


    He went through great lengths to obtain the genetic material of a deceased wife of a major general in the anti-government forces.


    Then, he sought out every possible opportunity to learn about the character and preferences of this late wife, employing the Qin family''s "Cloning Female Body" technology... to successfully "resurrect" her.


    After that, Old Master Qin, by offering this woman, managed to establish a connection with the general. He secretly started doing shady business with the anti-government armed forces and became their agent in this region.


    It was riding this tailwind that allowed the Qin family to swiftly grow into one of the most prominent families in Xinjie City within a mere decade!


    However, it was also because of this dark history that Old Master Qin always worried about potential future problems.


    Thus, upon learning about the possible establishment of Xinjie City, he decisively cut ties with the anti-government armed forces to a certain extent. He moved all truly dark businesses out and established the Four Major Transportation Merchants.


    He also actively fawned over officials like Commissioner Jiang and Yan Chen, who might assume office in Xinjie City.


    Even though the Qin family no longer had direct dealings with the anti-government armed forces, how could so many years of relations be severed so abruptly?


    Thus, the Qin family actually continued to remotely direct the dealings between the Four Major Transportation Merchants and the anti-government armed forces.


    And... they inserted spies into the anti-government forces.


    Yin Caimei, for instance, was trained by the United Front and placed into Xinjie City by the Qin family''s machinations. Her main objective was to infiltrate various departments in City Hall and gather intelligence.


    To avoid drawing attention, the Qin family also specifically used Vice President Tian, who had a thread of connection to the United Front, to create a cover and prevent drawing the attention of various powers.


    In fact, this successfully obscured the relationship between Yin Caimei and the Qin family and allowed her to infiltrate City Hall more smoothly. She became the shared mistress of many within City Hall and gathered a vast amount of valuable intelligence for the United Front!


    After organizing all the truths about the case he had received from Third Brother Qin, Qiu Tu honestly felt his emotions were a bit complicated.


    He remembered when he first arrived in this world, he had, for self-preservation, first "falsely accused" Qin Shuman of being a spy, followed by "framing" the Qin family as having murky relations with the United Front.


    At the time, he had simply been making it up to get more powers involved and to make Yan Chen, who was paranoid, hesitate to act rashly.


    But who could have predicted... it was all proven true!


    Qin Shuman was indeed a spy! And the Qin family really did have deep relations with the United Front!


    Oddly, Qiu Tu felt as though the bullet he had fired then had traveled across countless dimensions and hit him instead!


    "I truly have a curse... ah, no, it''s a blessing in disguise!"


    After quietly reflecting, Qiu Tu''s thoughts returned to the case at hand:


    With the testimonies and various pieces of evidence and clues provided by Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Third Brother Qin, this case was almost beyond salvaging¡ªeven the Three Giants of Xinjie City would not dare to interfere with a case with such immense ties to the anti-government armed forces; it was too risky.


    So, what remained was... how Qiu Tu could wrap up this case and how he could gain sufficient profit from it!


    After all, the Qin family was wealthy and influential, with assets and positions that could tempt many. Once it collapsed, the vacated positions and market opportunities would be plentiful.


    This was a beached whale, a gluttonous feast for all the forces in Xinjie City.


    Although Qiu Tu was significantly outgunned in this "spoils-sharing banquet," he had the advantage of being the case officer. He should be able to sink his teeth into a piece of the pie!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to carefully plan before closing the case.


    Otherwise, would all his hard work in investigating the case and the covert struggle with Yan Chen and Jia Shu have been in vain, just to benefit others?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu first let Chen Feng and Ah-Kun sort out the interrogation videos and audio, then ordered Cao Dabiao and Eagle to dispatch people to search for clues based on Third Brother Qin''s testimony.


    As for himself, he was ready to go to the restroom to deactivate his "Cataclysmic ability" and then seriously consider how to maximize his own interests.


    However, no sooner had he left the interrogation room and before he could reach the restroom, Liu Fuping sashayed over and said with a playful expression,


    "Your little lover wants to see you. She says she knows a major secret about the Qin family and wants to exchange it with you."


    -----


    Today is 3 updates of 10,000 words, the third chapter is still in progress, I''m a bit sleepy and want to sleep more, so... I''ll update around 13:00, or earlier if possible. Seeking a Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 117 Individual Interrogation of Bai Ru (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and retorted, "What little lover, Sister Liu, you really can''t ruin my reputation.""I''m still a bachelor, you know."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but spit inwardly at him. She had realized that her boss was truly becoming more and more shameless.


    Not to mention his philandering nature, he had already mingled with who knows how many women.


    Just look at what he did to Bai Ru: cuddling and hugging, touching and squeezing, kissing back and forth.


    Calling Bai Ru his little lover was already giving him enough face¡ªit at least gave a "title."


    If we were to speak unpleasantly, Qiu Tu was just seducing someone else''s wife! In ancient times, he would have been caged!


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was well aware of Liu Fuping''s disdainful gaze, but he didn''t mind it at all. He even brazenly wrapped his arms around Liu Fuping''s slender waist, leaned into the beautiful woman''s ear, and whispered,


    "Even if I had a little lover, it would definitely be you, Sister Liu."


    "That Bai Ru... in terms of looks, in terms of figure, how could she compare to even a hair of Sister Liu?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s heart swelled with joy, and she had to secretly clench her teeth to prevent her lips from curling up too high...


    ''Don''t say, although my superior is a bit of a scoundrel, his words are truly sweet...''


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping cast a seductive glance at Qiu Tu and let him off the hook, "Shall I call Bai Ru over for you?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "That would be great."


    Either way, the "Order Space" wasn''t over yet; one more interrogation was just one more interrogation.


    Thinking this, he watched Liu Fuping go to fetch the person and slowly walked back to the interrogation room.


    By this time, Cao Dabiao and Eagle had already left the interrogation room, following the confessions of Qi Yun and Third Brother Qin to search for evidence. Chen Feng and Ah-Kun had also completed the arrangement of the video and audio materials for the interrogation.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu enter, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun began packing up the film while casting a glance at him, then asked, "Brother Tu, what''s up?"


    Qiu Tu waved his hand, "Nothing much. Just need to conduct an additional interrogation."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun exchanged a look, hesitated a moment, and then said, "But we''ve stopped the cameras and recording equipment; it''ll take a long time to set up again."


    At that, Qiu Tu also hesitated briefly before responding, "No matter. We''ll forego the video and audio for this one."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu glanced at the two who were still organizing materials and instructed, "You two don''t need to join this interrogation then." Discover more stories at empire


    "Go ahead and process the film and tapes, put together the video and audio materials as soon as possible, I''ll have to report to the higher-ups later."


    Because of the Cataclysm, this era had not yet entered the digital age; coupled with the poor conditions at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, the interrogation footage was all recorded using film cameras.


    After recording, the footage wasn''t immediately available but required developing, processing, and playing back with specialized equipment.


    Thus, the preparation time before the interrogation was long, and various processing steps were needed afterward, making it quite troublesome.


    This also meant that aside from important suspects in major cases that required video and audio backups, most interrogations did not require video or audio recording.


    So, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s reasonable request, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun weren''t bothered. They saluted and then left the interrogation room with the equipment and materials.


    And as they departed, within just a few seconds, Liu Fuping entered the interrogation room with Bai Ru.


    After handcuffing Bai Ru to the interrogation table, Liu Fuping threw a flirtatious glance at Qiu Tu and teased, "Go easy on her, don''t break our beautiful suspect."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping left the interrogation room, her lips curling with a smile and her hips swaying.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Bai Ru:...


    Once the door of the interrogation room closed, and the cramped space contained only Qiu Tu and Bai Ru, Bai Ru lifted her head, looked at Qiu Tu with a pitiful expression, and asked, "What.... what did she mean by that sentence?"


    "What does ''go easy on her'' mean? What does ''don''t break me'' mean?"


    Qiu Tu cursed "a woman''s jealousy" inwardly!


    He coughed once and conveniently found an excuse, "It''s nothing. She was just using such words to disturb your mood, to frighten you, to make you more cooperative during the interrogation."


    "It''s a common interrogation technique."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru''s gaze clearly showed disbelief. But being someone with an "Inner Protector" personality, asking the earlier question was already a display of her utmost courage; she did not dare to press further.


    So, she quietly lowered her head and said, "The reason I sought you out is to make a deal with you."


    "I can reveal to you the Qin Family''s biggest secret, but you also have to make some promises to me."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Oh? What promises do you want?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Bai Ru looked at him with a grievance and said, "Of course, I would want you to promise the safety of me and my husband''s family. " Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But you''re a big liar, and even if you promise, I estimate you wouldn''t fulfill it. So, for now, I just wish we could temporarily get out of here."


    "By then, we can find my father, and then run away together."


    As she spoke, Bai Ru suddenly woke up, her big, watery eyes wide open, trying to cover her mouth with her hand.


    But after a series of "clang, clang" metal friction sounds, she realized that her hands were still cuffed to the table, unable to move at all.


    Her face blushed slightly, and she asked softly, "What... What''s happening to me? What I just said... it was all false. I didn''t plan to run away, really!"


    Bai Ru was probably the one with the weakest psychological strength among the few people Qiu Tu interrogated. She was like a little rabbit, completely panicked when frightened.


    She even started to delude herself.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a sense of amusement: Wouldn''t anyone who saw such a cute woman be tempted to tease her a bit?


    Thinking so, he stood up, walked over to Bai Ru, and lightly pinched her soft, fair cheeks with his hand.


    Bai Ru, slightly afraid, tried to back away, but Qiu Tu''s hand followed like a shadow, always pinching her cheek.


    After pinching her twice like this, Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "Madam, in fact, you enjoyed the ambiguous atmosphere between the two of us today, didn''t you?"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ru''s face flushed with embarrassment, and she defended, "Not at all... a little, somewhat conflicted, I wanted to resist but... it also felt very different."


    As she spoke what was on her mind, Bai Ru''s eyes widened again, possibly completely perplexed by what was happening.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    His hand moved from Bai Ru''s cheek down to softly stroke her neck and collarbone, the tender flesh near her cleavage, "Madam, is it that you and your husband don''t get along very well in certain aspects of life?"


    Bai Ru was somewhat dazed by now, feeling utterly ashamed, but under the control of her Cataclysmic ability, she finally spoke slowly, "My husband... is very afraid of my father. Plus, this marriage was a family alliance arranged by the Qin Family."


    "So... he has always been unkind to me... and seldom touches me."


    "Even if... he touches me, it''s always over in a hurry."


    Qiu Tu "Oh"ed and scoffed, "A 30-minute task completed in 3 minutes?"


    Bai Ru''s face turned redder, and she stuttered, "Less than 3 minutes."


    Qiu Tu laughed, his head buried deeply into Bai Ru''s cleavage, where he was met with a fresh milky scent.


    Bai Ru''s body stiffened noticeably, daring not to move at all.


    But Qiu Tu was just nuzzling there for a moment before suddenly returning to business matters, "Madam said she wanted to tell me a big secret about the Qin Family? What secret is that?"


    By this time, Bai Ru had already been thrown into utter confusion by Qiu Tu''s consecutive actions, completely at a loss.


    Let alone the fact that she was currently under the control of the "Order Space", even without the effect of the Cataclysmic ability, she probably just wanted to divulge the secret quickly and end this interrogation!


    In her heart, there was no longer any thought of bargaining.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she spoke as if relieved, "Actually... Old Master Qin isn''t dead!"


    Upon hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu''s action obviously paused for a moment. Then he continued to hold Bai Ru, fumbling around while asking, "Give me more details. Start from the beginning."


    In a fluster, Bai Ru said, "Before the Cataclysm, my family was an employee of the Qin family. After the Cataclysm, my father became an orphan, and was given a livelihood by Old Master Qin, so he has always regarded Old Master Qin as a half-brother."


    "Over the years, the big reason for his success was the support provided by Old Master Qin from behind the scenes. He has always been facilitating things for the Qin Family."


    "Therefore, our two families have been on very good terms and often interact. I''ve met Old Master Qin many times. He was always in robust health."


    "Years ago, when there was news about building Xinjie City in the Sanctuary, Old Master Qin was running around everywhere. But as soon as everything was arranged, he suddenly died of an accident."


    "At the time, I didn''t think much of it. After all, it''s natural for people to be born, get old, fall ill, and die, and in such a chaotic world, no one can be sure who might suddenly pass away."


    "But what''s strange is... even though my father worshipped and respected Old Master Qin, he only pretended to be sad outside. When he came home, he was like a person unaffected, and even... somewhat happy."


    "This made me very curious."


    "Later on, after my father got drunk, he took my hand and asked me if I could accept calling another face ''father'' if one day I had to."


    "At the moment, I was terrified, thinking my father was going to disown me and give me away to someone else. So I began to press him for an explanation."


    "And under my persistent questioning, my father finally told me the truth... that Old Master Qin actually hadn''t died."


    "He knew many years ago that his lifespan wouldn''t be very high, so he made a lot of preparations in advance to extend his life."


    "Right before his death, he finally made a deal with ''God'' and overcame the last hurdle to achieving immortality, gaining a new life..."


    ----


    Here''s an update of ten thousand words, everyone! I got six and a half hours of sleep today and feel much more comfortable. While taking good care of my health, I''ll strive to produce more chapters! I''m really pushing myself harder than I ever have in all my years of writing by doing ten thousand words a day, so I humbly ask everyone to throw more Monthly Tickets my way! Please subscribe! Thank you so much!


    I''ll continue with another ten thousand words tomorrow.

 Chapter 118 36 Strategies for Dealing with Women Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu had no interest in flirting with her.He held Bai Ru, his eyebrows slightly furrowed.


    ''Made a deal with "God"? Overcame the last obstacle to immortality?''


    Perhaps overly sensitive, the moment Qiu Tu heard the word "God", he immediately connected it with the "God" cried out by the man in the suit and mask.


    ''Are these two "Gods" the same one?''


    ''Or are there many "Gods"? Or... could it be some kind of symbol?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What is ''God''? Does this world have a ''God''?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Bai Ru thought for a moment, then said, "I''m not sure..."


    "My father didn''t elaborate. It could be a taboo topic? Perhaps he is not very clear about it himself? Or maybe... he doesn''t want me to know too much?"


    Listening to Bai Ru, Qiu Tu couldn''t help stroking his chin, appearing somewhat thoughtful¡­.


    After spending a day with Qiu Tu, Bai Ru gradually became able to read some of his expressions and thoughts.


    So seeing Qiu Tu pondering his schemes again, she hurriedly said in panic and weakness, "What are you going to do...?"


    "You''ve already captured me, you can''t capture my father, too..."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu laughed.


    He found the personality of a woman like Bai Ru truly interesting; no matter how you teased her, it was amusing.


    Thinking this, he reached out and touched Bai Ru''s cheek, then teasingly said, "Is that so? Then it will depend on your behavior..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words and seeing his hand on her face, Bai Ru turned pale as if she thought of some possibility¡­.


    And Qiu Tu stood up with a mischievous smile, his hand resting on his belt.


    His crotch was just level with Bai Ru''s gaze, and staring at the zipper of Qiu Tu''s pants, her eyes widened in shock¡­.


    However, Qiu Tu merely adjusted his belt and sat back down, "Tell me, what else do you know about Old Master Qin''s quest for immortality?"


    "As long as you talk enough, I might not have to capture your father."


    "Ah?" Bai Ru was taken aback, almost spraining her back, not expecting this turn of events.


    Her cheeks flushed, and her eyes reddened with embarrassment, feeling a sense of humiliation as if her dignity had been trampled.


    Who knows what she was thinking during the past few seconds¡­.


    Those were likely the longest seconds of her life, and the most sordid images filled her mind¡­.


    Moreover, perhaps because of Qiu Tu''s sudden change, she even forgot whether she "reluctantly agreed" or was "struggling to resist" in those mental images¡­.


    This unawareness of her own feelings, contrasted with Qiu Tu''s serious demeanor, made her feel like she was nothing but a harlot¡­.


    And that wasn''t the end of it. Remember, she was still under the influence of the Order Space.


    So even though she was enormously embarrassed and wanted to shut out everything, under the control of the cataclysmic ability, she still had to answer Qiu Tu''s questions sincerely, adding to her mortification¡­.


    Too bad Bai Ru hadn''t read the "Emotional Fraud Manual." If she had, she would know that the method Qiu Tu was using was precisely the "[Passionate Fantasy]" from the 36 schemes of handling women discussed in the "Emotional Fraud Manual". S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This approach was specifically designed by fraud groups for women of the "Inner Protector" type.


    While it could also be applied to other types of women, it was especially effective on "Inner Protectors" or married women with a certain level of favorability.


    To put it simply, this scheme involves:


    When both parties are in an ambiguous stage, and after a certain level of physical contact, you make movements that can easily cause misunderstandings.


    You let the other party imagine what might happen next, yet you withdraw immediately without doing those things¡­.


    After a few such teases, the other party''s mind has actually "rehearsed" many times what the two of you are about to do, making whatever you do next seem much more natural and easy¡­.


    Even, if the woman''s passion is strong, she might not be able to resist taking the initiative¡­.


    This scheme can effectively advance a relationship, including but not limited to "hugging", "kissing", and all the stages that follow, with broad application¡­.


    Find adventures at empire


    Having mentally run through the "[Passionate Fantasy]" scheme, Qiu Tu smiled subtly, then listened attentively as Bai Ru started revealing Old Master Qin''s secrets.


    Bai Ru, "That night, my father drank a lot, and he spoke at length."


    "It might be because it was so long ago, I don''t remember it very clearly."


    "But I do remember my father mentioning that immortality is not without its limits. The main restriction is the need to switch bodies, and it can only be a body with a blood relation to oneself."


    "Moreover, the closer the blood relation, the greater the probability of success and the better the recovery."


    "So, if he¡­ wants to be immortal like Old Master Qin, he would need to give me another brother, or¡­"


    "Have the Qin Family help clone a new body."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned, then couldn''t help asking, "Clone a new body?"


    "Isn''t the Qin Family''s technology for Cloning Female Bodies?"


    No sooner had he spoken did Qiu Tu feel that his question was a little silly.


    Cloning is a technique that allows an organism to reproduce asexually through somatic cells, creating an individual with the exact genetic makeup as the original.

 Chapter 118 36 Plans to Deal with Women, Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, there is no theoretical difference in this technology between cloning a man and cloning a woman. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Qiu Tu speculated that the reason why the Qin Family told the outside world that their technology was "Cloned Female Body" was probably just to make the technology sound more salacious and more likely to attract the attention of those lecherous big shots.


    However... don''t these cloned bodies have very short lifespans? If Old Master Qin and Deputy Director Bai were to enter cloned bodies, wouldn''t they die again very soon?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also voiced his doubts.


    It was only from Bai Ru''s words that Qiu Tu understood the strength of the Qin Family''s "Cloning Technology".


    According to Bai Ru, the Qin Family''s technology was actually very powerful and was one of the world''s cutting-edge technologies before the Cataclysm.


    The reason for this was that the technology, apart from cloning and gene editing, also allowed for "Forced Maturation" of the cloned bodies.


    "Forced maturation" could rapidly grow a clone into an adult individual in just a year or two.


    Of course, the cost and drawbacks of such "forced maturation" were also significant. Aside from consuming a vast amount of resources, the lifespans of the forced matured individuals would often be significantly shortened, and their cognition of the world and thinking would also have certain gaps compared to ordinary people.


    But if "forced maturation" technology was not used, then the cloned individuals could grow like normal people, not only consuming less resources, but also having lifespans no different from ordinary people.


    In this way, a normally grown individual could become the perfect "container".


    After listening to Bai Ru''s narrative, Qiu Tu involuntarily thought of the profligate son that was said to be born from the Qin Family''s Fifth House''s legitimate wife.


    Qiu Tu remembered that the Qin Family''s Fifth House was not very old, only in his teens. Compared to the four brothers of the Qin family, he was practically from a different generation.


    But then... going by the timeline, wasn''t that exactly when Old Master Qin had started his fortune and began preparing for the future?


    Could it be... he was Old Master Qin?


    With that thought... Qiu Tu''s brain whirred.


    After a moment, he felt something was off.


    If Qin Family''s Fifth House was Old Master Qin, then the distribution of power within the Qin family couldn''t possibly be what it was now!


    If Old Master Qin had already revealed the secret of his "immortality" to Bai Ru''s father, then it proved that it was not a secret that could be shared with just anyone.


    Therefore, even if he had entered the body of a clone that was only a teenager, he could still remotely control the Qin Family, rather than becoming a profligate son who only knew how to play around wildly and was ignorant.


    This did not conform to the logic of power dynamics.


    So... in fact, as long as one knows who is currently in charge of the Qin Family, that person should be the real Old Master Qin.


    Following this line of thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt stunned.


    So, was it... Commissioner Qin?!


    Thinking of this simple yet the most unlikely and the hardest for outsiders to suspect possibility... Qiu Tu was somewhat flabbergasted.


    He couldn''t help but look at Bai Ru and tentatively asked, "So... Old Master Qin is now... Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru too was a bit bewildered.


    She recalled everything she had just said, and there seemed to be no inkling that Qin Heng was Old Master Qin.


    Moreover, all they had discussed thus far was her own father''s "immortality". How did Qiu Tu suddenly guess Old Master Qin''s identity?


    However, despite her many doubts, under the rules of the "Order Room", she could only answer Qiu Tu''s question truthfully.


    So she said uncontrollably, "Yes. Old Master Qin is now Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin."


    Bai Ru''s eyes held a touch of reminiscence as she spoke weakly, "I''ve always been a bit surprised about Old Master Qin choosing Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin."


    "It was my father who explicitly addressed it for me." Your journey continues at empire


    "He meant that Old Master Qin had actually groomed a cloned body for his own immortality, which is Qin Wuyi."


    "But when Old Master Qin died, that body was too young, not fully matured yet,"


    "Furthermore, handing over the family business to a young child would too easily stir up dissatisfaction within the family and attract the covetous gaze of outside wolves. That''s why, for his first body switch, he chose Qin Heng, who at that time wasn''t yet a commissioner,"


    "As Old Master Qin''s eldest son, Qin Heng had the strongest legitimacy to inherit the Qin Family, which was least likely to arouse suspicion from outsiders. And because of his age, he could command respect from both the family and outsiders, and could smoothly take over the political assets left by Old Master Qin,"


    "The only drawback: an unhealthy body, which, in the case of merely being a ''transition,'' actually counted as a bonus point,"


    "After all, once Qin Wuyi came of age and all the roads were paved, the unhealthy Qin Heng could drop dead at any moment,"


    "By then, Qin Heng''s children would still be young, and the other brothers each had their own businesses, so it would be only natural for the matured and well-prepared Qin Wuyi to inherit Qin Heng''s political status and family position,"


    After listening to Bai Ru''s recounting, Qiu Tu had only one thought in mind: indeed, a self-made magnate is ruthless and resolute.


    To kill his son, sleep with his daughter-in-law, plot against his "grandson''s" inheritance. He was capable of committing such cutthroat acts!


    But upon further thought, since Old Master Qin could live "forever," it seemed he really didn''t need to care about the life and death of his descendants.


    After all, as long as he preserved his own genes, he could live on and on forever....


    With this realization, Qiu Tu suddenly gained a deeper understanding of the entire case.


    Anti-government armed forces, immortality, cloned female body, "God"....


    The more he delved into the case, the more Qiu Tu realized it contained far too many secrets.


    Fortunately, he had the opportunity to unearth it all!


    Thinking this, he no longer felt like teasing Bai Ru; instead, he called Liu Fuping to take her away.


    After going through Qiu Tu''s private interrogation, Bai Ru was somewhat delirious, as if she had undergone a spiritual baptism.


    It wasn''t until Liu Fuping escorted her to the guard room that she suddenly snapped awake: Wait a minute! Wasn''t I negotiating and trading interests with Qiu Tu?!


    How did it become a one-sided provision of information?!


    At this thought, Bai Ru covered her face with her hands, feeling utterly useless....


    She squatted down, burying her head in her knees, with only one hope in her heart: hoping that the secrets she had just revealed wouldn''t bring trouble to her father....


    Hadn''t Qiu Tu seemed to promise that as long as she behaved well, he wouldn''t go after her father?


    With this thought, a faint glimmer of hope sparked within Bai Ru.


    And.... Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, left alone in the interrogation room, deactivated his Cataclysmic ability while sending a message to Eagle, who was out arresting people with Cao Dabiao, "New target: Deputy Director Bai Yongdong."


    A moment later, Eagle replied with two characters, "Received."


    This time, the use of his ability might have been too lengthy. As he deactivated his Cataclysmic ability, Qiu Tu felt as if his spiritual power had been completely drained!


    His head was dizzy, and it even felt as if there was a pump in his brain, incessantly squeezing his soul.


    Thus, without delay, he took out the prepared Nightmare Crystal Vial, opened it, and downed the liquid within!


    As the liquid entered his throat, Qiu Tu immediately felt a cool relief washing from his stomach to his brain. In just a moment, the emptiness in his brain was significantly alleviated....


    Sitting back in the judge''s seat, Qiu Tu slowly relieved his discomfort while also beginning to consider the benefits he could gain from this case, according to plan.


    As a deeply rooted major household in Xinjie City, the Qin Family''s sphere of influence was incredibly vast.


    -------


    Today there are still 3 updates of 10,000 words each, haha, I''m posting 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter will still be updated around 13:00 (I feel like I can take it physically). Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 119 Shocked Yan Chen! (10,000 Words for Subscription)

    Yan Chen not only had his own people in all three major power institutions, but his industries also spanned clothing, jewelry, department stores, and transportation, among others. It can be said that he had both money and manpower at his disposal!And the downfall of such a colossal Qin Family would yield astounding benefits.


    If Qiu Tu could secure even a part of it, he could save a considerable amount of starting resources!


    Thinking this way, he also casually "dismantled" the Qin Family in his mind.


    No matter the family, essentially, they are composed of four dimensions: 1. Money! 2. Power! 3. Talent! 4. Technology!


    Among these, the Qin Family''s most valuable assets were, of course, technology and power. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Qin Family''s Cloning technology was unquestionably far ahead of the current post-Cataclysm chaotic world. If he could acquire it, he could not only sustain a small family''s prosperity for a long time, but also possibly reverse-engineer the related technology to advance more peripheral sciences.


    As for "power," that was about the various positions the Qin Family held within Xinjie City''s three major power institutions.


    Given the current situation of the Qin Family, unless one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City personally stepped in to protect them, Old Master Qin (Qin Heng)''s position as Commissioner and Qin Zhengguang''s as Deputy Division Chief were definitely going to be relinquished.


    Aside from them, because of this affair, a group from the Investigation Bureau and the Governing Hall including Division Chiefs and Chiefs are likely to be warned or even demoted.


    This is nothing short of a major power reshuffle among Xinjie City''s mid-level echelons!


    Comparing money and talent to the most important assets of technology and power, the Qin Family''s resources are equally tempting.


    Once the Qin Family falls, the industry shares, corporate assets, and real estate they leave behind are all hot commodities¡ªsecuring even one could mean prosperity for many years.


    In terms of talent, whether it''s their privately trained armed forces or the technical backbones cultivated by the Qin Family in various industries, attracting any of them could save years of development time!


    However, Qiu Tu also knew that it wasn''t just him eyeing this piece of fat meat from the Qin Family. Should the Qin Family fall, myriad forces in Xinjie City, big and small, would certainly swarm like hungry wolves to partake in this feast!


    ''So... I must determine what I want to secure in advance. And then lay out my plans early.''


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out pen and paper and began to sketch in his notebook. Soon, he had determined his primary target: Power.


    Whether for living better in this chaotic world or... to upgrade his Cataclysmic ability, Qiu Tu''s greatest need was to raise his position!


    His current position was Deputy Chief of the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, two ranks below Qin Zhengguang''s Deputy Division Chief, and since he had just been promoted, he was destined not to gain this Deputy Division Chief spot.


    But... with someone being promoted to Deputy Division Chief, it would certainly leave a Chief position vacant!


    Furthermore, considering the merits Qiu Tu had made recently and the connections he had developed, he felt he might be able to aim for a promotion.


    While being a Chief might seem just one level above a Deputy Chief, the Deputy Chief is only an assistant, while the Chief is the highest officer in a department, not only wielding more power but also finding it easier to place confidants and cultivate loyalists.


    It can be said that with this promotion, Qiu Tu could truly open up the situation and begin to build his own power!


    After identifying his primary target, Qiu Tu immediately determined his secondary target: Talent!


    After swindling a large sum of startup capital from Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu wasn''t really short of money.


    What he lacked was a way and a channel to increase the value of his money.


    If he could lure a group of talents from the Qin Family, regardless of the industry, with their experience and connections, he could quickly establish a foothold in a particular industry, then develop and grow it. Thereby, he would have a continuous source of money, no longer wasting away his wealth!


    As for the remaining two benefits: Money (assets) and Technology (Cloned Female Body)...


    The former was too obvious, with too many competing for it, any preemptive move by Qiu Tu would not only look suspicious but could also easily make him a target for everyone.


    The latter, with its scarcity and high value, was something Qiu Tu could hardly acquire even with stealthy plotting.


    Therefore, after weighing his options, Qiu Tu decided to forgo competing for these two benefits and focus all his efforts on seeking position and scavenging talent!


    After organizing his strategy for obtaining benefits, Qiu Tu quietly listed on paper the resources he possessed that could be used for exchange:


    He held the secret of Old Master Qin''s "Immortality";


    He had incriminating evidence against Commissioner Qin "Qin Heng";


    He had a list of all the officials in Xinjie City involved in the case, obtained from Third Master Qin, Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Bai Ru;


    He had the yet-to-be-altered property titles and deeds of Master Qin Si;


    He had two pieces of Cataclysmic Material, several Cataclysmic Props;


    He had leads and suspects from the recent "Pharmacy Robbery Case";


    He knew the true identity of Liu Fuping, and so on...


    After lining up the resources he had listed, potential allies, and the things he wanted to acquire, Qiu Tu quickly organized his plan.


    Once he had finished crafting his plan, Qiu Tu, with a serious face, memorized the contents of the paper and then used a match to burn the paper completely clean.


    After doing all this, Qiu Tu got up and tried walking a few steps to ensure that the aftereffects of using his Cataclysmic ability had passed, then took out a special Communicator that Qin Shuman had given him and called her.


    As the call connected, the coy voice of Qin Shuman came through the receiver, "Chief Qiu~~ how is your progress? Can we start taking action? I really can''t wait..."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu chuckled, then replied, "Then don''t be hasty. I''m calling you this time because I want to propose a deal to you."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman immediately became interested, "A trade? What kind of trade?"


    Qiu Tu, "A kind of insurance..."


    On the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman, dressed in yellow-green military uniform, looked out at the continuous drizzle, her charming face all smiles, "Oh? Insurance? Do tell..."


    Ten minutes later, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had finished their phone call.


    Then he sat quietly in the interrogation room for a while, ensuring that nothing was overlooked before he cleaned up the ashes at the scene and exited the interrogation room.


    At this time, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun, who had finished organizing the video and audio materials, were already waiting outside the door.


    Qiu Tu took all the materials, looked through them carefully, and then seriously inquired about the clue and evidence search conducted by Cao Dabiao and Eagle before finally bidding everyone farewell and heading to the 9th floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    When he arrived at the 9th floor, Secretary Bai was already waiting there.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Secretary Bai smiled slightly at him then led the way with a cool detachment.


    Explore hidden tales at empire


    "The Bureau Chief is in a good mood. Hopefully... the news you bring will also be good," said Secretary Bai.


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s ostensibly sarcastic words that actually contained key information, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    "It will be. Thank you for your concern, Secretary Bai. It''s chilly, make sure to take good care of yourself and not freeze to death."


    "You better take care of yourself. Right now, who knows how many people out there are wishing for your death."


    "Don''t worry, I have my ways. They''ll die before I do."


    In just a few simple exchanges, both parties covertly swapped information and expressed their concern for each other.


    At the door of Yan Chen''s office, Secretary Bai knocked gently, prompting the deep, firm voice from inside, "Come in."


    Secretary Bai opened the door and announced to the interior, "Bureau Chief, Deputy Chief Qiu has arrived."


    Inside the office, Yan Chen merely grunted in acknowledgment without saying much.


    Secretary Bai signaled to Qiu Tu, who took a deep breath and then stepped into Yan Chen''s office.


    Perhaps it was because of the rainy weather, but today, the curtains in Yan Chen''s office, unusually, were drawn back.


    The drizzling rain outside pattered against the window, creating a pleasing rhythm.


    And there sat Yan Chen by the window, quietly listening to the rain, while lowering his head to read the newspaper.


    With no newspaper office in Xinjie City, this newspaper was obviously from the Sanctuary.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu walked over and respectfully greeted, "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Then... he sneakily glanced at the content of the newspaper.


    The headline on the front page of the newspaper was: In order to better manage the cities in the Planning Area and expand outward, the Sanctuary is researching the establishment of higher-level administrative units in the Planning Area...


    Qiu Tu paused. Establishment of higher-level administrative units?


    Did this mean "state" or "province," those regional administrative institutions comprising dozens of cities?


    Before Qiu Tu had time to make sense of this, Yan Chen put down the newspaper, picked up a teacup beside him, took a sip of tea, and asked indifferently, "I heard you have something to report to me. Is it about the Yin Caimei case?"


    Yan Chen was indeed in a good mood today, even taking the initiative to ask another question, "How is the case going? Is the progress smooth?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu also snapped back to attention.


    He looked at Yan Chen and declared confidently, "Report to the Bureau Chief! The case has been concluded! That''s what I''m here to report!"


    "Cough cough." Perhaps the efficiency of Qiu Tu''s handling of the case was so exaggerated that even Yan Chen was taken aback and choked on his tea.


    After coughing, he wiped the moisture from the corner of his mouth, placed the teacup down, and then lifted his head to look at Qiu Tu, seeking confirmation,


    "The case is finished?"


    He glanced at the clock on the wall, did a quick calculation, and with a bit of surprise, remarked, "From the time you arrested the suspect, it''s only been three to four hours."


    "You''ve finished the case already?"


    Qiu Tu wanted precisely this kind of shock factor to aid his following plans.


    So he acknowledged with an "Mm," and stated, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    "I employed a small tactic. I easily broke through several suspects'' psychological defenses and obtained key information and evidence."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Upon hearing this, Yan Chen stood up, walked back to his desk, sat down, and then looked at Qiu Tu with an impassive gaze, asking, "Let''s hear it. What''s the story with this case? Who is the murderer?"


    ----


    There''ll still be 3 releases and 10k words today, posting 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter will be around 13:00 (feels like I can endure this schedule). Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 120 Slinging Mud at Jia Shu (10,000 Words to Seek Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu knew that the real test was finally about to come.Therefore, he looked at Yan Chen, listened to the "rustling" rain outside the window, and slowly said,


    "Bureau Chief, the ''Yin Caimei case'' actually consists of two separate cases."


    "The first case is the ''Yin Caimei Spy Case''."


    "The second case is the ''Yin Caimei Death Case''."


    "The murderer of the second case is simple. After our investigation and interrogation, we have locked down and confirmed the killer."


    "It is none other than one of the Four Major Transportation Merchants, Deputy Director Bai of the Civil Affairs Bureau''s son-in-law, Section Chief Bai''s husband: Qian Dafu."


    "According to his testimony, he has been working closely with the Anti-government Armed Forces, the United Front, over the years, not only supplying them with materials multiple times but also always running errands for them."


    "And Yin Caimei was an important spy for the United Front. Using her, the United Front obtained a vast amount of confidential intelligence from various departments and bureaus of City Hall."


    "Thus, when she was captured, the United Front feared she would expose their entire intelligence network, so they ordered Qian Dafu to silence her."


    "As a result, Qian Dafu used a Cataclysmic treasure, the ''Cursed Blueprint,'' to curse and remotely murder Yin Caimei, resulting in the bizarre incident of her death."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s narrative, Yan Chen nodded slightly, his aged eyes reflecting thoughtfulness.


    Looking at Yan Chen, still with drooping eyelids and wrinkles at the corners of his eyes and mouth, Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but he felt that today, Yan Chen seemed somewhat younger.


    It was not so much a change in appearance as a manifestation of vitality...


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, pondering for a moment before asking deeply, "That Cataclysmic treasure is called the ''Cursed Blueprint''?"


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, snapped back to reality, nodded, and then brought out a document that detailed the murder weapon, presenting it with both hands to Yan Chen, "Yes."


    "That Cataclysmic treasure is a set of two pieces, consisting of the ''Cursed Book'' and the ''Curse Notes''."


    "The person holding the notes can curse the person reading the book."


    "According to the location provided by Qian Dafu, we have found that notebook in the safe of his villa''s basement."


    "It indeed has the cause and time of Yin Caimei''s death written on it, matching his confession. And the handwriting has been identified as Qian Dafu''s."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then added, "Although we haven''t yet done a Catastrophe Power source comparison... it shouldn''t be wrong."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s account, Yan Chen lightly nodded, "Not bad, it''s quite an accomplishment to have managed the case to this extent in such a short time."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also replied with a smile, "Mainly, it''s because we made a lot of preparation and effort in advance."


    When receiving praise from a leader, one must never be modest. Instead, one should doubly emphasize one''s own hard work and efforts.


    Superiors rarely empathize with subordinates; if you don''t talk about your hardships, why would leaders think the task is difficult? Why would they believe you''ve done a great job?


    So... one part success, seven parts talking.


    Qiu Tu naturally began to talk about his hard work during this time, "Bureau Chief, you don''t know, ever since I took on this case, I''ve been staying up almost every night working on it!"


    "The night before last, in order to gather some clues for the case, I met with friends I knew from the past and drank until almost dawn, almost coughing up blood."


    "Yesterday, in order not to spook them and as a ploy to lull the enemy, I deliberately left work early and took my subordinates to her house for a meeting. We discussed the case until late into the night." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yesterday, in order to execute the plan more perfectly, I stayed up all night discussing with the Security Department. We fought several times over the details of the investigation and the distribution of interests."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu rubbed his arms and back, saying with a wry smile, "I still feel a sore back and achy waist."


    "Even today, before wrapping up the case, I had to suppress my anxiety and butter up the suspects in the Emerald Fort to lower their guard."


    "For someone as tough as Section Chief Bai Ru, just trying to extract information from her left me with a dry mouth and barely able to raise my hands."


    After finishing his speech, Qiu Tu transitioned, "Nevertheless, it''s precisely because of the efforts these past days, all the preparation and arrangements made in advance, that we were able to make the suspects admit their crimes and resolve the case in just a few hours after their arrest."


    He bowed slightly and concluded, "Of course, we''ve been working so hard to repay the Bureau Chief for the grace of knowing and recognizing us."


    "Being able to fulfill the tasks given to us by the Bureau Chief and to alleviate your worries, is a blessing we''ve cultivated over several lifetimes!"


    [Yan Chen''s satisfaction +6]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s mix of complaints and flattery, an exceedingly rare expression of appreciation appeared on Yan Chen''s face.


    He did not merely offer a simple appraisal like "not bad" as before but instead praised directly, "Good job. If every department of the Investigation Bureau could share my concerns like you, I wouldn''t feel the lack of people to rely on!"


    However, Yan Chen wasn''t knocked over by Qiu Tu''s brown-nosing. After lavishing praise, he still sharply picked up on the sensitive information mixed into Qiu Tu''s speech.


    His tone shifted, then he suddenly asked, "However... you just mentioned that you and the Security Department studied the case late into the night? What is that about?"


    "Why would the Security Department get involved in this case?"


    His gaze was deep, showing no emotion, inscrutable.


    But... Qiu Tu had prepared various contingency plans before coming to see him, so he wasn''t flustered and displayed a surprised expression on his face.


    "Wait a minute. Bureau Chief, I didn''t catch your meaning."


    "What do you mean by why the Security Department got involved? Isn''t this... your arrangement?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s brow furrowed visibly but quickly smoothed out. He asked in an unfazed tone, "My arrangement?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, his face still showing surprise, "Yes." Discover stories with empire


    He explained, "When I took on this case, Minister Jia called me up to the rooftop and then told me you had taken an interest in me, asking me to act as a double agent in the Security Department, maintaining contact with them."


    Yan Chen''s gaze was deep, as Jia Shu had indeed discussed this matter with him.


    Seeing Yan Chen''s reaction, Qiu Tu continued, "After that, I kept in touch with the Security Department on and off, trying to gain their trust."


    "And then... after you summoned me to your office last time, where I publicly expressed suspicion of Minister Jia, he found me and told me that I had completely misunderstood your and his intention."


    "You were actually giving me a hint. Not allowing me to investigate Vice President Tian didn''t mean I couldn''t continue with the case. Then he asked me to think hard and see if I could understand your hint."


    "So... after going back, I kept trying to recall your words to me, and then... I finally understood what you were hinting at."


    "This case mostly involves officials from City Hall, and our Investigation Bureau must enforce justice impartially; there''s no way we can let it pass."


    "However... if only our Investigation Bureau investigates this matter, it''s very likely to provoke strong backlash and retaliation from City Hall."


    "At that time, although we would eradicate some scoundrels, we might also cause ill will with City Hall. We''d be restricted everywhere."


    "So, if we could cooperate with the military and the Security Department... pass this ''hot potato'' to the military, letting them take the lead, and then sit on the hills and watch the tigers fight, reaping the benefits, wouldn''t that be perfect?"


    Qiu Tu got a bit excited as he reached this point, "After I understood your hint, I thought your plan was absolutely brilliant!"


    "This way, we get the benefits; the military takes the blame! Indeed, it''s much smarter than just doggedly investigating the case as I had thought before!"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen let out a nearly imperceptible sneer through his nose.


    Qiu Tu pretended not to hear it and continued, "So soon after, I adjusted the plan according to your instructions and reported it back to Minister Jia."


    "After hearing my plan, he said he was right to trust me, that I finally understood your painstaking efforts. It was due to his affirmation that I started to cooperate with the Security Department and implement this plan..."


    "If you don''t believe me, you can call Minister Jia right now and ask if he knows about this plan."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s recount, Yan Chen took a deep breath, then quietly observed Qiu Tu with his turbid eyes.


    There was no imposing aura about him, yet Qiu Tu felt an overwhelming pressure bearing down on him.


    However, Qiu Tu also knew that he had to hold on, so he looked frankly at Yan Chen without averting his gaze, intentionally showing a hint of confusion about the situation in his eyes...


    After quietly observing Qiu Tu for a while, Yan Chen slowly retracted his gaze; he picked up his teacup, took a sip, and commented, "You people in the Political Department do have some craftiness..."


    "Being able to understand such ''hints''."


    His remark on "craftiness" seemed to carry an implication, though it was unclear whether he was referring to Qiu Tu or Jia Shu...


    [Yan Chen''s suspicion +0, satisfaction -2]


    After his evaluation, he also said indifferently, "I will verify this matter with your minister."


    "Continue with what you were saying..."


    "You mentioned the ''Yin Caimei case'' is actually two separate cases. One is the ''death incident,'' and the other is the ''espionage case.''"


    "Talk about the espionage case."


    Seeing the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu inwardly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Yan Chen was a suspicious person. His lack of doubt toward Qiu Tu meant that... his guidance had been successful.


    For now, at least, he had successfully shifted the blame for "contact with the Security Department" onto Jia Shu, further intensifying the conflict between Yan Chen and Jia Shu...


    Given the personalities of both men and their current relationship, it was unlikely that Yan Chen would question Jia Shu directly.


    Therefore, Yan Chen would probably arrange for someone to test Jia Shu or observe his subsequent reactions to determine if things were as Qiu Tu had described.


    And since Jia Shu had indeed been forewarned of the plan by Qiu Tu, he wouldn''t overreact but would calmly wait for things to unfold.


    This would only solidify the suspicion in Yan Chen''s mind that the plan was arranged by Jia Shu...


    What remained was to see how unlucky Jia Shu would be and what stance Yan Chen would take on the "espionage case"...


    Qiu Tu hadn''t forgotten that Yan Chen had always wanted to bring the Qin Family under his control, so the next steps of the case and which contingency plan to implement would depend on Yan Chen''s reactions...


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu braced himself, looked at Yan Chen, and started dropping bombshells...


    ----


    Three chapters, ten thousand words, ha! Requesting Monthly Tickets! I''m working on the draft now and will continue to update tonight!

 Chapter 121 Yan Chen Satisfaction +20 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    He looked at Yan Chen, and then spoke directly, "Bureau Chief, the spy case involving Yin Caimei is very extensive.""It not only involves dozens of directors and commissioners, but also... very likely involves someone you highly regard."


    "Someone I highly regard?" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s eyes revealed a hint of deep thought, then he inquired, "Who?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Yan Chen with a face devoid of any expression, only filled with righteousness, "Commissioner Qin!"


    "According to our investigation, whether it''s Vice President Tian, Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, or even Yin Caimei, all are related to Commissioner Qin!"


    This time, Yan Chen''s face did not show much surprise.


    It was as if he had anticipated this, and then while sipping tea, he said expressionlessly, "Being related to these suspects... is quite normal."


    "As one of Xinjie City''s largest families, the Qin Family will have relations with various people in Xinjie City."


    Having said this, he paused, "The key is... whether this case has anything to do with him."


    Yan Chen acted as though he was sure Qiu Tu had no relevant evidence, appearing very unconcerned.


    But... Qiu Tu was waiting for him to say just that, so he stepped forward, directly placing on Yan Chen''s desk the paper records of the interrogation of Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Third Brother Qin.


    Then he stepped back to his original position and said, "Bureau Chief, these are the confessions of several criminal suspects and related evidence."


    "According to their testimonies, they are all subordinates of Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin, and have all followed Commissioner Qin''s commands. And it was under Commissioner Qin''s instigation that they engaged in anti-government and anti-Sanctuary actions!"


    "According to their confessions, the Qin Family rose to power with the help of the Anti-government Armed Forces. And Yin Caimei was introduced into Xinjie City by Commissioner Qin himself, who placed her as a professional spy beside Vice President Tian!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s body involuntarily froze. He tried hard to conceal his shock, but from his slightly contracting pupils and the involuntary rubbing of his fingers, his inner turmoil was still apparent.


    This time, he did not respond to Qiu Tu right away but picked up the confessions on the desk to read.


    He read for over ten minutes, and the spacious office was quiet for ten minutes.


    During this time, Qiu Tu stood straight in front of the desk, looking unwaveringly at Yan Chen, like a statue, so he also noticed every change in Yan Chen''s expression throughout.


    This man, ranking among the top three most powerful in Xinjie, did not relax his brows from the moment he picked up the confessions.


    He read the materials word by word, his lips pressing tighter and tighter.


    Qiu Tu suspected that he did not actually need to read for so long, but rather did not want to lose his composure in front of his subordinate. Or perhaps... he was pondering how to handle the matter.


    Sure enough, after finishing the several confessions in his hands, Yan Chen slowly put them down, and then said expressionlessly, "These confessions seem very interesting... they answer whatever you ask."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu understood what Yan Chen meant. So, he immediately stepped forward and placed a videotape on Yan Chen''s desk with both hands, "Bureau Chief, this is the video material of the interrogation."


    "It can be seen inside, all three of them voluntarily confessed to their issues."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then slowly said, "As for the reason... actually, I used a disposable Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasure."


    He continued, "Before cooperating with the Security Department according to your request, Minister Jia reminded me that there were interrogation-specific Cataclysmic treasures in the Security Department. So, when I negotiated with the Security Department, I specifically requested one."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression slowly turned grim...


    He just quietly looked at Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, he slowly said, "First... the Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures used by the Security Department are not 100% effective, but have a success rate."


    "Secondly, although Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures can ensure the authenticity of the confession, they... cannot guarantee it is the [truth]."


    "Many suspects or witnesses believe what they know to be the truth, but it''s quite possible they are just misunderstandings. This can lead to serious misdirection in case investigations."


    "Finally, and most importantly, our Investigation Bureau doesn''t have the authority to use Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures. The Sanctuary stipulates, aside from the Security Department, no other authority can consider confessions obtained using Cataclysmic treasures as valid...."


    "And even the Security Department is forbidden from using Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures on current officials."


    Upon saying this, Yan Chen slightly shook his head, his face showing a look of disappointment, then he picked up the teacup and started sipping tea again.


    But at this moment, Qiu Tu didn''t concede defeat, speaking bluntly, "Bureau Chief. I''m aware of all that you''ve mentioned."


    "Therefore, I did not plan to convict Commissioner Qin based on these confessions."


    He paused for a moment before he proceeded, "Whether it''s Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, or Third Master Qin, they all have the habit of preserving evidence!"


    "They have confessed to their privately stored evidence. That evidence is sufficient to convict Commissioner Qin with [zero confessions]!"


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    "Bang!"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen slammed the teacup he had just sipped from heavily down on the table! sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He could no longer maintain his usual indifference and steadiness!


    His drooping eyelids were lifted, and his tiger-like eyes stared emotionlessly at Qiu Tu. Without uttering a word, his stance couldn''t have been clearer:


    He didn''t truly disbelieve Qiu Tu''s investigation or genuinely think the evidence was irregular, but... he simply didn''t want to investigate Commissioner Qin!

 Chapter 121 Yan Chen Satisfaction +20 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed inwardly, knowing that the worst possible situation he had predicted had indeed materialized.Actually... ever since he had thoroughly investigated the case and learned that Commissioner Qin (Old Master Qin) was the mastermind behind the scenes, Qiu Tu had sensed that something about the trajectory of events seemed off.


    He had indeed known that the Qin Family was very likely involved in this matter and had even suspected that they had played a significant role in this case. But he really hadn''t anticipated that they would be so deeply entangled, even being the direct mastermind!


    Keep in mind, Commissioner Qin is not just the head of City Hall or the patriarch of the Qin Family, but also... a big shot who had just pledged allegiance to Yan Chen.


    It was precisely because of Commissioner Qin''s allegiance that Yan Chen''s influence in Xinjie City had fully inflated: his power knew no bounds and was no longer confined to the Investigation Bureau.


    With the help of the Qin Family, the local powerhouse, all sectors in Xinjie City and all areas related to the people''s livelihood at City Hall were within Yan Chen''s reach.


    This was not as simple as one plus one equals two; it completely unlocked the expansion of Yan Chen''s power.


    So... for him to suddenly sever his biggest support, and topple the most significant vassal who had just pledged allegiance to him, how could he possibly accept that?


    The downfall of the Qin Family might benefit all forces within Xinjie City, everyone except Yan Chen...


    Therefore, after discovering Commissioner Qin was the mastermind, Qiu Tu had remained silent for a while.


    Honestly, at that time, he didn''t believe Yan Chen to be the kind of person who would sacrifice personal gains for the sake of "national" righteousness.


    But to determine what kind of man Yan Chen truly was, to ease future confrontations, Qiu Tu still repeatedly tested Yan Chen when he tried to cover up Commissioner Qin''s crimes.


    However, now it seems, he "wasn''t wrong" about Yan Chen.


    And, precisely because he had seen through Yan Chen long ago... all of this had been within his expectations, and he had already made the necessary arrangements well in advance.


    Thinking this way, upon seeing Yan Chen''s anger, Qiu Tu immediately switched faces according to the plan.


    He smiled at Yan Chen and said, "Bureau Chief, I think you might have misunderstood."


    "Misunderstood?" Yan Chen''s eyes flashed coldly, "Explain."


    Qiu Tu bowed slightly, then whispered, "What I said just now is all true."


    "With that evidence, even without a confession, Commissioner Qin will definitely not be able to escape responsibility."


    Seeing Yan Chen furrow his brows once more, Qiu Tu quickly added, "But!"


    "This case was initiated at your suggestion. No matter how many clues and pieces of evidence I find, they need to be reported to you..."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu just looked at Yan Chen, his smile incredibly sincere.


    He didn''t continue his sentence, but his implication was crystal clear: As for what Yan Chen would do with those clues, whether he would delve deeper into the case or have a chat with Commissioner Qin, that was Yan Chen''s decision.


    His mission was done; he wouldn''t pursue this case any further.


    He was entirely at Yan Chen''s disposal...


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen was initially startled, then his expression became somewhat profound.


    His body relaxed gradually, leaning back into the executive chair, and while he scrutinized Qiu Tu without changing his expression, he slowly said, "Qiu Tu... I never saw you to be this clever before."


    Still bowing, Qiu Tu smiled and replied, "It''s all thanks to the opportunities for experience you''ve given me over this period, allowing me to grow."


    One has to admit, Qiu Tu''s talent in employing the sycophantic tactics from his previous life pleased Yan Chen enormously. His gaze softened.


    But even so, he didn''t forget the most crucial matter.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and slowly said, "Where are the evidence and clues then?"


    Qiu Tu immediately sobered up, "The investigation team is still searching. They should have results soon."


    "Let me ask!"


    With that, Qiu Tu took out his Communicator, giving Yan Chen a querying look.


    After seeing Yan Chen nod, Qiu Tu made a call to Chen Feng, even switching on the loudspeaker.


    The call connected in two seconds, and Chen Feng''s voice came through the speaker, "Chief! May I ask what the matter is?"


    Qiu Tu''s expression grew serious as he said, "How''s the search for evidence going? Do Big Biao and the others have a result?"


    Chen Feng reported earnestly, "We haven''t searched Third Master Qin''s residence yet, but the searches at Qian Dafu and Qi Yun''s residences are complete! We found evidence of Commissioner Qin''s criminal activities!"


    Qiu Tu heard the words, covered the mouthpiece, and then said to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, the subordinates reported that the evidence saved by Qian Dafu and Qi Yun has all been found. But the Qin Family hasn''t been searched yet."


    "What do you think...?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was truly obedient, a smile finally appeared on Yan Chen''s face as he said lightly, "There''s no need to search the Qin Family for the time being."


    "After all, they have a huge influence and have made significant contributions to the entire Xinjie City."


    "You''ve already arrested Third Brother Qin and Director Qin, giving them a warning. If we search again, people outside might think something big has happened."


    "This is not conducive to the unity and stability of Xinjie City."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu quickly nodded and then said into the communicator, "No need to search the Qin Family for now."


    "Tell Cao Dabiao to seal all evidence found in the villas of Qian Dafu and Qi Yun on the spot, no one is allowed to view it! Then have them bring all that evidence back to the Investigation Bureau immediately!"


    "After arriving at the Investigation Bureau, don''t go to the Political Department, come straight to the Bureau Chief''s office."


    "If anyone has checked the evidence just now, remember to issue a gag order on them!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Chen Feng quickly responded, "Yes! Officer!"


    After arranging everything, Qiu Tu put down the communicator and then inquired, "Bureau Chief, does that seem okay to you?"


    [Yan Chen satisfaction +20]


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s compliance, the corners of Yan Chen''s eyes crinkled with a smile, finding Qiu Tu more and more to his liking...


    But what he didn''t know was...


    At the Political Department''s interrogation area.


    After hanging up the phone, Chen Feng was just about to call Cao Dabiao.


    Just then, Ah-Kun who had been standing by his side suddenly popped up and asked curiously, "Detective Chen, was that Brother Tu on the phone just now?"


    Chen Feng glanced at him strangely and grunted in affirmation.


    Upon hearing this, Ah-Kun nodded and then turned to go to the nearby restroom.


    Entering the restroom, Ah-Kun took out the Special Communicator Qiu Tu had given him and dialed a number.


    After a while, the call connected, without any sound coming from the other side.


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    Ah-Kun waited silently for two seconds and then hung up the phone as per Qiu Tu''s instruction.


    Having done all this, Ah-Kun tucked the Special Communicator away, undid his pants, and relieved himself.


    After finishing up in the restroom, he washed his hands, humming a tune as he left.


    His normal routine and demeanor did not alert the other detectives also relieving themselves in the restroom; none sensed anything amiss...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Xinjie Military Department, Security Department, Investigation Department office.


    Qin Shuman sighed softly, looking out at the gradually darkening sky and murmured to herself, "He really anticipated it."


    After speaking, she put down the communicator, picked up a document, and turned to walk to the Director of the Security Department''s office...


    ...


    At the same time, at the Investigation Bureau, Bureau Chief''s office. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps because he was already in a good mood today, and adding to that Qiu Tu''s compliance, Yan Chen''s expression brightened significantly.


    He leaned back in his chair, looking at Qiu Tu with satisfaction, and asked, "Qiu Tu, you''ve handled this case very well, I''m very pleased."


    "I am not a petty person. Tell me, what reward would you like?"


    ----


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 Chapter 122 Xinjie City Trembles! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu didn''t act like many subordinates who would hastily decline and refuse.One must definitely accept what the boss gives!


    From the psychological perspective, demanding can enhance relationships more than giving.


    Thus, with a smile, he said, "Bureau Chief, having the opportunity to work for you is my fortune."


    "If you really want me to make a request, I only wish to be closer to you and take on more of your worries."


    Possibly because Yan Chen had never been subjected to Qiu Tu''s flattery in his previous life, Yan Chen was so taken with Qiu Tu''s relentless bootlicking that he laughed out loud.


    He pointed his finger at Qiu Tu and nodded, "You, you, haha."


    Having said that, he also quietly pondered the hidden request within Qiu Tu''s flattery...


    "Wanting to be closer to him" "To take on more of his worries"... this was basically a roundabout way of wanting a "promotion."


    If one were to follow the normal process of promotion or the Sanctuary''s assessments, an official like Qiu Tu with a common background, who had already been promoted recently, wouldn''t be promoted a second time right away.


    But... now it''s the initial stage of Xinjie City''s formation, and many promotions are being handled fairly casually. Moreover, there are a few vacant director positions in each department, so... it''s not entirely impossible...


    Moreover... with the Qin Family''s recent troubles, although Qin Heng can''t be touched, some middle-level officials associated with the Qin Family, like Qin Zhengguang, still need to be dealt with. Many positions will become vacant.


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with an encouraging gaze and slowly said, "I understand your thoughts."


    "When the time comes, I will pay attention."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu immediately pretended to be excited and said, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Afterward, Qiu Tu even took the initiative to pour tea and water for Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen... was even more satisfied.


    [Yan Chen''s Satisfaction +4]


    After pouring the water, Qiu Tu set the thermos aside, then with a troubled look said, "Bureau Chief, actually... aside from what we discussed earlier, I have another rather presumptuous request."


    Yan Chen, who was in a good mood, didn''t mind Qiu Tu''s boldness and hummed inquisitively, "What else is there?"


    Qiu Tu, looking embarrassed, said, "During this period, because of investigating the Yin Caimei case, I frequently received threats from various powers, both overt and covert."


    "Today, again, four directors and the Four Major Transportation Merchants were arrested. I fear someone might take desperate measures and try to assassinate me."


    "So... could I stay by your side these next couple of days, serving you tea and water, and being at your beck and call."


    "This way, even if someone does want to harm me, seeing me by your side, they would probably not dare to make a move."


    Saying this, and perhaps worried Yan Chen wouldn''t agree, Qiu Tu quickly glanced at the clock and said, "At 6 o''clock tonight, it will be the time I agreed upon with the Security Department."


    "At that time, they will take over the case and begin arresting the officials involved."


    "Once tonight is over and they have successfully attracted the attention of the various powers, I should be safe."


    "Then, I will leave on my own and no longer trouble you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu mention the Security Department''s involvement again, Yan Chen''s smile slowly faded.


    He didn''t directly answer Qiu Tu''s question but instead asked, "Are you certain they are only pursuing the officials from City Hall?"


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then tentatively replied, "Their promise to exchange information with me was just that." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And besides... those officials were only involved with Yin Caimei, infiltrated by her and leaked some confidential information. Strictly speaking, they aren''t spies."


    "So, investigating them could only lead to Yin Caimei or the Four Major Transportation Merchants at most, right?"


    "Now that both the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin, Third Master Qin, are in our hands, even if they wanted to continue investigating, they probably couldn''t go any further, could they...?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s series of speculative questions, Yan Chen thoughtfully nodded.


    Then a smile crept back onto his face, "All right, you can stay by my side today."


    "Thank you, Bureau Chief!" Hearing Yan Chen''s affirmative response, Qiu Tu quickly expressed his gratitude! And inside... he quietly breathed a sigh of relief.


    The last step of the plan: an alibi, was finally completed.


    The rest is up to fate now...


    In the following time, Qiu Tu became Yan Chen''s assistant, serving tea and water, managing documents, and attending to arrivals and departures.


    Although Qiu Tu stayed by Yan Chen''s side merely to complete his mission, he also cherished this opportunity to learn and observe the work of the Investigation Bureau''s highest-ranking official.


    By Yan Chen''s side, he saw many confidential documents; witnessed discussions between Yan Chen and various directors and deputy directors; and saw Yan Chen''s skilled techniques in managing subordinates: rebuking, balancing, promising, and the carrot-and-stick approach, all came naturally to him...


    Even though he was performing an assistant''s duties for those several hours, he would still take advantage of any lulls to put himself in Yan Chen''s place, considering how to handle the same situations and problems.


    This learning process deepened his understanding of the entire Investigation Bureau''s operations and how to manage his subordinates.


    Besides what he learned, serving as Yan Chen''s "temporary assistant" also allowed Qiu Tu to gain favor in front of the Investigation Bureau''s various directors and deputy directors.


    Being retained by Yan Chen as an assistant is a clear sign of being one of Yan Chen''s confidants, part of his inner circle. This was a very obvious political signal.


    So, it didn''t take long before various rumors about Qiu Tu began to quietly spread within the Investigation Bureau, and more and more investigators came to know about Qiu Tu, the Deputy Staff who had recently made a dramatic rise in the Bureau....


    Just like that, time passed by, second by second.


    Soon, it was 6 o''clock.


    Qiu Tu glanced out of the window, which was pitch black and devoid of any light.


    The heavy rain that had lasted all day hadn''t stopped with the coming of night; in fact, it seemed to have gotten even heavier.


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    Thinking of what would happen on this rainy night, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but tighten his grip slightly.


    Yan Chen didn''t notice Qiu Tu''s unease. After finishing a document, Yan Chen put down his pen and asked expressionlessly, "It''s time for dinner. Do you want to eat with me?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly took up the offer, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen: ...


    Actually, Yan Chen was feeling a bit annoyed with Qiu Tu''s constant presence by his side and wanted to send him away for some peace and quiet.


    But since Qiu Tu had already accepted, him being one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, it wouldn''t be appropriate to take back his offer. So he only let out a subdued "Hmm," picked up the phone, and ordered two sets of four dishes and one soup for dinner.


    Thanks to sharing in Yan Chen''s light, Qiu Tu also got to experience a dinner fit for a Bureau Chief. Plus, having been with the Bureau Chief''s mistress, after a bit of rounding up, he basically was....


    When dinner was served, Qiu Tu was full of anticipation, expecting some kind of delicacy! But when each dish was revealed... it turned out, to his dismay, that all four dishes plus the soup were entirely vegetarian!


    Even the soup was cucumber egg drop soup!


    At that moment, his face turned as green as the soup.


    He realized then that he and Yan Chen fundamentally did not get along.


    As a meat lover, how could he possibly coexist with a vegetarian!


    Hastily finishing their meals, they both plunged back into work: Yan Chen reviewed documents while Qiu Tu stood by, lost in thought.


    But this time, they didn''t work for long before the office door was knocked on urgently.


    "Knock knock knock."


    At the sound of the urgent knocking, Yan Chen shot a glance at Qiu Tu. Qiu Tu understood and went to open the door.


    Standing at the door was Secretary Bai.


    Secretary Bai had learned that Qiu Tu was serving as a temporary assistant to Yan Chen that afternoon, so he wasn''t surprised, merely nodding slightly before quickly stepping into the office.


    Qiu Tu closed the door behind him and followed him inside.


    As he walked into the office, before he even reached Yan Chen''s side, Qiu Tu heard Secretary Bai rapidly reporting the intelligence to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, we just received news. Half an hour ago, the Security Department mobilized various divisions and arrested a group of mid to low-level officials from City Hall."


    "Departments like the Bureau of Education, Environmental and Sanitation Bureau, and Commerce and Economic Development Bureau have all been affected. Even... a Director has been arrested."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s report, Yan Chen looked up at him and asked gravely, "Is there a detailed list?"


    Secretary Bai was able to become Yan Chen''s right-hand man, the steward of the entire Investigation Bureau, because his capabilities were extremely exceptional. So upon Yan Chen''s question, he immediately took out a prepared list.


    Yan Chen took the list, quickly read through it, and then showed a smile on his face.


    He did not comment further but instead handed the list to Qiu Tu, who was standing by his side.


    Qiu Tu received the list with both hands and looked it over as well.


    The names on the list were all familiar. They were the ones confessed by Third Brother Qin, Qian Dafu, and Qi Yun, which he then provided to Qin Shuman.


    The entire list contained 21 people, covering almost all the departments and bureaus of City Hall, including one Director, three Deputy Directors, and 17 Heads and Deputy Staff.


    One could say... with this list out, Xinjie City was turned upside down!


    Of course... the military and City Hall would most certainly become adversaries!


    This outcome brought quite a few more smiles to Yan Chen''s face.


    [[Yan Chen Satisfaction +6]]


    He spoke to Secretary Bai with a smile, "Alright, I''ve got it. Next, have someone keep a close eye on the Security Department''s actions tonight. Report to me immediately if there are any issues."


    Secretary Bai, hearing this, acknowledged and then left the office.


    After Secretary Bai had gone, Yan Chen stood up and took the initiative to pat Qiu Tu on the shoulder as a gesture of encouragement.


    Clearly, although the case wasn''t progressing as he had envisioned, it had unexpectedly satisfied him.


    Feeling Yan Chen''s happiness, Qiu Tu kept a smile on his face, but in his heart, he was secretly sneering: Keep laughing... keep laughing, in a moment you won''t be able to anymore...


    ------


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 Chapter 123 Twist! Stabbing Yan Chen in the Back! (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    ```7 o''clock.


    Cao Dabiao and others returned with the evidence and voluntarily delivered it to Yan Chen''s office.


    Possibly setting foot in the Bureau Chief''s office for the first time, Cao Dabiao was visibly trembling.


    As he placed the sealed evidence down, he almost knocked over Yan Chen''s water glass.


    But Yan Chen, in a good mood, didn''t mind, and even encouraged Cao Dabiao with a few words after examining the evidence.


    And Yan Chen, who had obtained evidence of Commissioner Qin''s collusion with United Front and long-term provision of supplies and placements of spies for them, finally felt at ease....


    He went to the inner office and solemnly locked the evidence in the safe, sealing it away.


    7:30 p.m.


    Secretary Bai once again came to Yan Chen''s office.


    This time, he brought with him the second list of people arrested by the Security Department.


    This time, although the number of people on the list had decreased compared to the first one, the quality was in no way inferior.


    Out of the 12 people, there was 1 Commissioner, 2 Deputy Commissioners, and 9 Chiefs and Deputy Chiefs.


    With the first batch, in just one short hour, the Security Department had arrested 33 middle and senior officials from the City Hall. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Especially that Commissioner.


    After all, there were only seven Commissioners in City Hall, responsible for various works in Xinjie City. Theoretically, even the Investigation Bureau and the military had to be supervised and directed by these Commissioners.


    But now.... one was directly arrested by the military! This was a blatant slap in the face of the Municipal Committee!


    It was said that Commissioner Jiang from the Municipal Committee was furious, and personally called General Ye from the military to confront him!


    But General Ye, known for his iron-fisted approach, showed no fear of Commissioner Jiang''s threats. With a single remark, "The Security Department is a national security organ directly under Sanctuary with the authority to monitor and investigate officials at all levels," he effectively shut down the argument.


    Rumor has it that Commissioner Jiang, in a fit of anger after the call, smashed his favorite antique porcelain vase in his office!


    That was an antique from before the Cataclysm, with craftsmanship long lost. Each piece destroyed meant one less in the world, and its value was beyond measure.


    Upon hearing about this, Yan Chen also laughed and smoked two cigarettes in a row, even offering one to Qiu Tu and specially permitting him to smoke in the office.


    8 o''clock.


    It was Ji Chen, who had once had a brief encounter with Qiu Tu, that came to the office this time.


    He reported to Yan Chen a piece of explosive news: Director Dai of the Security Department had submitted evidence of Vice President Tian colluding with United Front and engaging in illegal activities to Sanctuary and had applied for a "special investigation warrant."


    Just now, Sanctuary had responded to the request, agreeing to Director Dai''s application and temporarily revoking the Peak Third-Level Medal previously awarded to Vice President Tian, stripping him of his immunity and the right to participate in and discuss politics.


    The Security Department immediately took coercive measures against Vice President Tian. He has now been arrested and detained.


    For Yan Chen, this news was neither particularly good nor bad.


    However, the bigger the case was handled, the more spotlight the military would gain, the more likely it was to become a target for various powers.


    And as the initiator of the case, the Investigation Bureau, always hiding behind the military, not only had protection from the military''s presence but could also profit quietly¡ªno matter how much credit the military took for this case, they had to share the spoils with the Investigation Bureau.


    Such tactics also made Yan Chen once again increase his appreciation for Qiu Tu who had come up with the plan. And even Jia Shu, who had hinted at the plan, seemed more pleasing to the eye.


    The rain continued to "pitter-patter" outside, and the tremors among Xinjie City''s middle-rankings persisted.


    At 8:30 p.m., Qiu Tu and Yan Chen left the Investigation Bureau together in a car, heading back to Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in City Center Garden.


    Perhaps due to the presence of Yan Chen and surrounding guards, no one attempted to assassinate Qiu Tu.


    By 9 o''clock, the two arrived at Yan Chen''s villa.


    At 9:10 p.m., they got out of the car and entered Yan Chen''s study.


    Qiu Tu naturally boiled water for tea, attending to Yan Chen as attentively as a real assistant.


    But.... just when everything seemed to be going smoothly.


    9:20 p.m.


    Suddenly, a series of urgent knocks on the door rang out.


    Yan Chen, who had been writing documents accompanied by the sound of the rain, "swoosh, swoosh, swoosh," was jolted from his thoughts.


    He glanced at Qiu Tu standing by his side, already yawning with fatigue, and signaled to him.


    Qiu Tu quickly stifled his yawn and hurried to open the ornate door of the study. Stay connected through empire


    Standing outside was a very anxious Ji Chen.


    Seeing the door open, he didn''t even bother to greet Qiu Tu but rushed straight into the study, swiftly walking over to Yan Chen, bent down, and whispered a few words.


    Hearing his words, Yan Chen, who had been busy writing, suddenly turned pale; a "snap!" was heard as the steel pen in his hand broke unintentionally!


    But without caring about the pen, he looked up abruptly, his eyes furiously fixed on Qiu Tu, who was just closing the door!


    In that instant, with his back to both men, Qiu Tu felt a dreadfully oppressive aura enveloping him, as if preyed upon by a massive beast, causing goosebumps all over his body and leaving him petrified!


    The dark study was like a devouring monster with an open maw. The dim light of the desk lamp only illuminated a small area beneath the desk.


    Yan Chen was seated in that spot, his hands smeared with black ink from the pen, his face as dark as the rain outside, motionlessly staring at Qiu Tu....


    ```


    At that moment, Qiu Tu also became aware of the imminent danger. He dared not make any movements and could only slowly turn around, staring at Yan Chen with a face filled with shock and suspicion. Tentatively, he asked, "Director... what happened?"


    Yan Chen was clearly infuriated by the message he had received. He slammed his hand on the table with a thunderous "Bang!" causing everything on the table to jump a few centimeters!


    Then he glared at Qiu Tu and demanded, "Qiu Tu! What on earth is going on with the Security Department!"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu deliberately put on a look of confusion and asked in puzzlement, "The Security Department? What happened with the Security Department?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s "feigned ignorance," Yan Chen took a deep breath to suppress the rage within him and then gestured to Ji Chen with a wave of his hand.


    Ji Chen, expressionless, stood up and faced Qiu Tu, saying, "Chief Qiu, just a moment ago, the Security Department took Commissioner Qin away from the Qin Family."


    "At the same time, they have deployed troops to seal off the entire Qin Family, prohibiting anyone from entering or exiting."


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s heart remained perfectly calm, but his face displayed an expression of disbelief, "They took Commissioner Qin away?! Why?!"


    "Is it because of the Yin Caimei case?"


    Qiu Tu exclaimed in surprise, "But do they have any evidence? Without evidence, isn''t this wrongful arrest?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s convincingly genuine expression, Yan Chen''s face gradually softened, and he asked in a deep voice, "Do you really not know what this is about?"


    Qiu Tu hastily shook his head and swore with his hands raised, "Director, I really have no idea what''s going on!"


    Yan Chen, upon hearing this, took a deep breath.


    His demeanor was grave, his gaze penetrating as if he were making some sort of judgment.


    After a moment, he picked up the desk phone and dialed a number.


    Soon, the call connected and a somewhat sinister voice came from the other end, "Director Yan?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen replied with a forced smile, "It''s me, Director Dai. I heard you''ve just taken Commissioner Qin away? And you''ve also sealed off the entire Qin Family?"


    "May I ask for the reason?"


    Hearing the conversation between the two, Qiu Tu immediately guessed that Yan Chen was calling Dai Yukang, the head of the Security Department, who was Qin Shuman''s immediate superior.


    Despite his title as "Director," Dai Yukang''s position was of high rank. He held the military rank of Senior Colonel in the military, second only to General Ye as the second-in-command of the Xinjie City Military Department.


    If placed within the Investigation Bureau, he would be at the position of the first Deputy Director. His status was even higher than that of Tang Feifei.


    This was why Yan Chen would speak to him directly, and even why his tone was so nuanced.


    As Qiu Tu thought this, Dai Yukang began to speak.


    He stated in an indifferent tone, "Director Yan, if we dare to arrest an official of such a high level, it is certainly because we have conclusive evidence."


    "However, since you''ve asked personally, I will speak frankly. The Qin Family is likely a nail planted in Xinjie City by the United Front. The United Front is not only the Qin Family''s financial backer, having supported them to rise to prominence, but over the years, they have also been loyally serving the United Front."


    "Much of Xinjie City''s intelligence has been leaked by the Qin Family, and many spies from anti-government armed forces have been implanted by the Qin Family."


    "We dared to act and arrest them because we have ample evidence. In fact, before making the arrest, I even wrote a report to the Sanctuary and obtained approval before proceeding."


    Having said that, Dai Yukang paused for a moment, then added cautiously, "Director Yan, I know you have some personal ties with Commissioner Qin."


    "But... I still need to remind you. This time, you may have misjudged the person."


    After that, Director Dai found an excuse and hung up the phone.


    After the call, Yan Chen didn''t erupt in rage as Qiu Tu had expected. Instead, he sat quietly in his chair for a while.


    Then, he opened a drawer and took out a cigarette and matches.


    "Strike... strike..."


    Scraping a match, he brought the flame to the cigarette in his mouth, Yan Chen squinted his eyes as he took a deep inhale.


    Surrounded by swirls of smoke, his face appeared faint and elusive.


    The atmosphere in the study became serene for a time.


    After a while, Yan Chen picked up the desk phone again and dialed a few numbers.


    The call connected shortly after.


    With a raspy voice, Yan Chen said, "Go check my safe. See if there''s a black iron box with evidence inside."


    After giving the instruction, Yan Chen hung up and continued to smoke.


    A few minutes later, the desk phone rang and Yan Chen answered it.


    A man''s deep voice came through, "Bureau Chief, the safe contains the black iron box you mentioned, but¡­ it is empty. There is no evidence!"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen''s face grew even more troubled.


    Qiu Tu, upon seeing this, still maintained a confused and puzzled expression on his face, but inwardly he was bursting with joy...


    It looked like his plan for the evening had been executed perfectly!


    This stab in the back should leave Director Yan completely befuddled!


    ------


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 Chapter 124 Qiu Tus Deal with the Security Department (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    The rain outside the window went "pitter-patter," hitting the windowpanes, sounding especially clear in the silent study.Yan Chen''s face was gloomy as he spoke to the person on the other end of the phone, "Have Old Chu from the Political Department... no, have Old Chu come over to inspect the traces. See if any fingerprints or other clues were left."


    "Call Old Huang and ask him to bring you some Cataclysmic treasures to check for traces of Catastrophe Power."


    "Yes," the person on the other end of the phone quickly responded to Yan Chen''s words.


    After hanging up the phone, Yan Chen took a deep breath and extinguished his cigarette fiercely on the desk! Then his tiger-like eyes calmly stared at Qiu Tu, as if pondering something.


    Qiu Tu tried to appear as normal as possible, so his eyes conveyed innocence while looking at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen stared at Qiu Tu silently for a while, then he finally said somberly, "You heard the last two phone calls."


    Qiu Tu gave a "hmm" in response.


    Yan Chen, "Any thoughts?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s question, Qiu Tu tried his best to forget all of his plans for the day, putting himself in the shoes of an investigator who knew nothing of the matter.


    He pondered in silence for a moment, then ventured, "Could it be that a mole has surfaced within the Investigation Bureau?"


    Yan Chen stared coldly at Qiu Tu, not saying a word. Because... what Qiu Tu said was a platitude: without a mole, could the evidence have flown away by itself?


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu carefully spoke, "I feel the mole is likely someone by your side."


    Yan Chen, expressionless, went "Oh?" and asked, "Why do you say that?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a sheepish smile, "Because... only someone close to you would know your safe''s password and be aware of your habit of placing evidence in the safe, right?"


    Yan Chen, clearly not really interested in Qiu Tu''s analysis but rather looking for any telltale signs or slip-ups in his words, gave an "hmm" and asked, "So, do you have a suspect in mind?"


    Qiu Tu coughed and provided Yan Chen with an unexpected choice, "Secretary Bai?"


    Perhaps this choice was too surprising for Yan Chen, so he looked slightly moved and took two seconds to think before asking, "Why him?"


    Qiu Tu tentatively said, "It''s just a guess."


    "After all, Secretary Bai is one of your most trusted individuals. He would definitely have a thorough understanding of your habits and probably also knows your safe''s password."


    "Moreover, when the investigation team came to deliver the evidence, he was the one who brought them in. So he knows that after the evidence entered your office, it never left."


    "Plus, he was aware of my reason for seeking you out, so he could guess what evidence the investigation team delivered."


    "All these factors make him satisfy all the prerequisites for this case."


    Yan Chen seemingly truly considered if Secretary Bai was the thief. After a moment, he asked, "And the motive?"


    Given Qiu Tu''s relationship with Secretary Bai, of course, he wouldn''t actually smear Secretary Bai to cover for himself. He was merely using Secretary Bai to lead into the next part of the conversation...


    So, after hesitating a bit, he said, "I''m guessing... could Secretary Bai have a conflict with the Qin Family?"


    "Or perhaps, he feels that since the Qin Family has sided with you, his position by your side is at risk?"


    "Or maybe... he''s had some conflicts with you recently? Simply wanting revenge?"


    "Or perhaps, he... secretly reached some sort of agreement with the military or City Hall? Is this a Letter of Challenge?"


    Qiu Tu''s successive hypotheses regarding motives made Yan Chen frown deeply. Because... as he listened to each motive Qiu Tu proposed, the suspect Yan Chen thought of was not Secretary Bai, but... Jia Shu.


    After all, although Secretary Bai was his right-hand man, his role largely involved administrative work, such as filing all the information and tasks, or dealing with various matters within the Bureau.


    Such tasks, while still influential, were actually very intricate, meticulous, and difficult to wield power outwardly. Thus, few of his peers wished to replace Secretary Bai or compete with him.


    In contrast, Jia Shu was different.


    Also his right-hand man, Jia Shu was not only closer to him, but he also commanded the Political Department, the most powerful department in the Investigation Bureau.


    Furthermore, many of his private matters were instructed to be handled by Jia Shu, which allowed Jia Shu to often exercise his power in Xinjie City in his stead ¡ª this was also a major reason why Xinjie City feared the Political Department. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So should the Qin Family get too close to Yan Chen, it would inevitably affect Jia Shu''s status in his heart. Many tasks would no longer require Jia Shu''s assistance, further weakening Jia Shu''s power in the whole of Xinjie City.


    Considering that Jia Shu knew the safe''s password and was aware that he had the habit of placing evidence into that safe...


    Suddenly, Jia Shu became a much more suspicious figure in Yan Chen''s mind.


    More importantly, because of the Yin Caimei case, Jia Shu had been at odds with Yan Chen recently, and he had shown an unusual level of interest in the case. Not even Yan Chen knew what role Jia Shu played in it, which undeniably increased his suspicion. Enjoy exclusive chapters from empire


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen''s brows were deeply furrowed, and for a moment, he was too preoccupied to suspect Qiu Tu...


    ...


    As the Chief of the Investigation Bureau, Yan Chen''s word was law within the Bureau. He didn''t need to go through the layers of approval or wait for his superior to collect the Cataclysmic treasures, unlike Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, just 10 minutes later, the phone rang again.


    By this time, the study had already been quiet for 10 minutes.

 Chapter 124 Qiu Tus Deal with the Security Department (10,000 Words for Subscription!)_2

    In those ten minutes, Yan Chen simply continued to smoke quietly; so, a few more cigarette butts accumulated in the ashtray, and the entire study was shrouded in a fog-like haze. Coupled with the mist seeping in from the outside, it truly resembled a Fallen Immortal Realm...Amidst that white fog, Yan Chen slowly picked up the receiver of the landline, his voice hoarse as he said, "Hello?"


    The voice of the man Yan Chen had contacted earlier came from the other end of the phone, "Bureau Chief, Old Chu checked the fingerprints on that black box, and found that only yours were on it."


    "As for the safe, apart from yours and mine, there were only the fingerprints of Secretary Bai and Minister Jia; no trace of outsiders."


    "Regarding the surveillance outside the office, we''ve looked into that too. Due to confidentiality principles, the cameras on the ninth floor were not activated. So, there is no footage at the moment."


    At this point, the man paused, then continued, "And about the Cataclysmic traces at the scene, we used a ''Retrospective Locator'' to pinpoint, confirming that around 8:30, which is after you left the Investigation Bureau, someone used Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysmic treasures on this safe..."


    The man concluded, "In summary, we suspect that a Cataclysmic might have stolen the important documentation from your safe."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen''s eyes darkened like deep pools. He hummed an acknowledgment and said, "Keep looking for more clues."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone.


    His hands rested quietly on the table; at that moment, Yan Chen was like a volcano yet to erupt¡ªhis expression was calm, but no one knew how much anger he harbored within.


    Just then, the door to the study was knocked upon from the outside with a "thud, thud, thud."


    Hearing the knocking, Qiu Tu looked towards Yan Chen, wondering if he should go answer it. But before he could ask, Ji Chen had already walked over to the carved door of the study and opened it.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Even a lousy assistant''s job has competitors! The job market is indeed tough!


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also glanced towards the doorway of the study.


    Standing at the door was Secretary Bai.


    He seemed to have just come back from outside, with his trouser legs and shoes still showing water marks.


    The fact that his left shoulder, and even half of his left side, was wet, clearly indicated that he... had not come alone, but was accompanied by another person of esteemed status.


    As Qiu Tu was contemplating this, Secretary Bai walked into the study. He nodded at Ji Chen first and then surveyed Qiu Tu with an expressionless face before walking up to Yan Chen.


    Bending down, he whispered into Yan Chen''s ear, "Bureau Chief, Yanyan has been brought back."


    "Due to the rain, I drove slowly on the road and got delayed a bit."


    "I had the maid take her to bathe and drink some ginger soup just now."


    "She misses you a little and wants you to keep her company."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Yan Chen grunted deeply and said coldly, "I''m busy today; let her rest on her own."


    After that, he said to Secretary Bai, "There''s actually something I need to discuss with you; stay for a moment."


    Then Yan Chen looked up at Qiu Tu.


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    Compared to his warm demeanor towards Qiu Tu during the day, his current gaze held a noticeable trace of disdain, "Qiu Tu, you can step out first."


    "We have some matters to discuss."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s command, Qiu Tu didn''t care much: he was quite understanding. If you stabbed someone hard on the back, of course you had to allow them to be angry.


    So he obediently said, "All right, Bureau Chief."


    After speaking, he left the study.


    As he gently closed the carved door of the study, Qiu Tu faintly heard Yan Chen''s distinctive low, hoarse voice slowly begin, "There might be a mole among the senior staff of the Investigation Bureau..."


    Clearly, Yan Chen was preparing to discuss tonight''s events with Secretary Bai.


    And thinking of his relationship with Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu rarely showed a trace of a smile on his lips¡ªit seemed that even fate was on his side.


    This tight spot, Jia Shu would have to shoulder whether he wanted to or not...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall his plans for the evening.


    Actually, after interrogating Bai Ru, Qiu Tu discovered that his situation was somewhat ill-omened.


    The reason he explained earlier was that Qin Heng now became an important partner and vassal to Yan Chen.


    If Yan Chen wanted to expand his power, he must protect him. Thus, by the time the case investigation reached this point, it was almost no longer possible to continue!


    But the problem was ... Qiu Tu already knew so many secrets, and he had locked up three of the four Qin brothers, so he and the Qin Family really had reached a point of no return ...


    Even if Qiu Tu were to give in to the Qin Family, Yan Chen might mediate ... But the problem was, there were also insurmountable issues between Qiu Tu and Yan Chen!


    Once Yan Chen discovered the things Qiu Tu had done behind his back, Qiu Tu would still be on a path to death.


    Add to that, the immense benefits that would arise from the downfall of the Qin Family ...


    So, to just give up like that, Qiu Tu really couldn''t reconcile with it!


    He couldn''t just watch Yan Chen grow stronger in Xinjie City, nor could he lose the chance to bring down the Qin Family, and he definitely couldn''t let those cooked benefits fly away.


    Therefore, after much deliberation, he decided to make a big gamble! Bringing every key player into Yan Chen''s entire lineup! Going all-in!


    Since he was now tied hand and foot and unable to see this case through, he would make a big deal with the Security Department and let them handle the case!


    Flipping the table over! No more games for anyone!


    So, he gave Qin Shuman a call and discussed a massive deal. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The deal was huge, but the terms were simple.


    From Qiu Tu''s side, he would provide Qin Shuman with:


    A list of 33 officials from Xinjie City involved in the case, containing 1 member, 1 Director, 5 Deputy Directors, and 26 Principal and Deputy Staff;


    Unrealized real estate and land titles from Master Qin Si;


    And ... evidence of Qin Heng and the Qin Family''s collusion with United Front for their rise to power.


    What Qin Shuman and the Security Department needed to offer in return was:


    Cash equivalent to the value of Master Qin Si''s properties and land titles;


    The backbone of the Qin Family''s certain industry technology, and the rights to deal with 30 private armed personnel among the Four Major Transportation Merchants;


    And ... a legitimate captain (Principal Staff level) secret identity for the Security Department. It could be without a position, not responsible for specific job duties, but it had to have a rank.


    The terms exchanged by both parties were almost equivalent, and even with the addition of the "captain" identity, Qiu Tu was asking for a bit too much.


    But Qin Shuman and Dai Yukang were clearly individuals who handled big affairs, so after brief negotiations, they agreed right away.


    As a result, although Qiu Tu paid almost all of his "cards," he also gained even more substantial benefits than he had anticipated.


    Even ... he got the most important safeguard: the Security Department''s captain identity.


    This would allow him to execute his next "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan more boldly!


    After finalizing the benefit exchange with the Security Department, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman confirmed several key points of the whole plan today.


    1. Within the next hour, someone will use Qiu Tu''s Special Communicator to call Qin Shuman. The caller won''t speak and will hang up within a few seconds. This indicates that the plan has officially begun.


    If no call is received, then all plans will be temporarily suspended, waiting for Qiu Tu to make contact again.


    2. If the call is received, then at 17:30, Qin Shuman should send someone to the entrance of Old Alley Street and wait for a person named Ah-Kun. At that time, Ah-Kun will hand over something to her. It must be securely received.


    3. At 18:00, the Security Department will start arresting the first batch of City Hall officials implicated in the case, totaling 21 people!


    4. At 19:00, they will start arresting the second batch of City Hall officials, totaling 13 people!


    5. Starting from 19:00, they will dispatch people to guard outside the Investigation Bureau building, keeping an eye on the whereabouts of Yan Chen and Qiu Tu, ensuring both leave the Investigation Bureau building together!


    ----


    Still delivering 3 updates with 10k words! I''ll start with 2 chapters totaling 7k, and by 14:00 this afternoon, another chapter will be updated! Seek Monthly Tickets! Seek subscriptions!

 Chapter 125 The Heaven-Earth Swap Plan! (10,000 words, seeking Monthly Tickets!)

    6. At 8:20 p.m., begin the arrest of Vice President Tian!7. This is also the most important!


    Upon discovering that Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had left the Investigation Bureau Office Building. Immediately use the item obtained from Ah-Kun at 5:30 p.m.


    8. Arrest Commissioner Qin, seal off the Qin Family....


    At that time, the entire plan and transaction would be completely finalized!


    The reason why Qiu Tu insisted that the Security Department execute the plan according to his rhythm was also deliberate.


    Although he now had the "Security Department" as insurance and had secretly changed the lineup, he still wanted to stay in the "Investigation Bureau" as much as possible without exposing himself.


    Such an opportunity to infiltrate enemy ranks was incredibly rare. If it wasn''t for his restraint, Qiu Tu truly worried that Yan Chen might become the local tyrant of Xinjie City.


    When that time came, he would have no choice but to completely abandon his identity and flee to Eastern City.


    Therefore, he needed the Security Department to perform as best they could, to help him reduce suspicion from Yan Chen as much as possible ¡ª for instance, by creating an alibi.


    There were only two difficult parts to the entire plan.


    1. Qiu Tu had to convince Yan Chen to keep him by his side.


    This point, because Yan Chen was in a good mood today, was actually completed quite smoothly.


    2.... While under Yan Chen''s watchful eye, transfer the evidence of "Qin Heng''s crimes" given to Yan Chen elsewhere.


    This required the use of a key Cataclysmic treasure that Qiu Tu obtained from the "Salvage Game" the night before¡ªthe Seal of Ownership.


    The function of this Cataclysmic treasure is such that once it stamps an item or a living being, the holder of the stamp will have ownership rights over it for the next 72 hours.


    Within those 72 hours, if the stamp holder wishes to retrieve the stamped item or living being, it will cross space and appear directly in front of the stamp holder.


    So....


    After explaining the plan in detail to Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu also called Ah-Kun into the interrogation room and gave him two items.


    The first item was the "Special Communicator" Qiu Tu used to contact Qin Shuman.


    It was too dangerous for Qiu Tu to carry this Communicator while staying by Yan Chen''s side.


    Besides, Ah-Kun needed to use this Communicator to contact the Security Department.


    It was a perfect solution.


    The second item was the Cataclysmic treasure, the "Seal of Ownership.


    Then, Qiu Tu laid out the tasks for Ah-Kun in detail.


    The first task was for Ah-Kun to stay close to Chen Feng at all times, and as soon as he confirmed that he had called Chen Feng, immediately communicate with the Security Department to formally start executing the plan.


    The second task was, after making the call, for Ah-Kun to leave the Investigation Bureau, and then hand over the "Seal of Ownership" to Eagle. Eagle would then stamp all the evidence of the collusion between the Qin Family and United Front with the seal.


    The third task was that after all the stamping was done, Eagle had to return the seal to Ah-Kun, who had to rush to Old Alley Street before 5:30 p.m. to hand over this Cataclysmic treasure to the meeting Security Department personnel.


    At that point, the Security Department, holding the "Seal of Ownership," could use this Cataclysmic treasure to silently retrieve the evidence once Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had left the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Since Qiu Tu would be accompanying Yan Chen the entire journey and had not touched any of those pieces of evidence, he would have the most solid alibi possible.


    And he could then unreservedly cast all the blame onto Jia Shu.


    After all, besides Qiu Tu, Jia Shu was indeed the most likely person to have had access to and the motive to steal that evidence.


    Once this entire "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan was accomplished, Qiu Tu not only could sever Yan Chen''s external support from the Qin Family, obstructing Yan Chen''s momentum; he could also sow discord between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, injecting instability into the Investigation Bureau;


    And extricate himself from the affair completely! S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was indeed killing several birds with one stone!


    To be honest, after recalling the entire "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan, Qiu Tu felt.... if everything goes smoothly, there''s a chance he wouldn''t even need to activate the Security Department insurance for a promotion.


    After Yan Chen no longer suspects him, to appease him and counterbalance Jia Shu, Yan Chen might really offer him an official position as section chief....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu stretched lazily, feeling that it was quite exhausting to make so many plans!


    But now that everything that could be done had been done, the rest was up to time to verify!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu hummed a tune "in his heart," yet his "facial expression" was extremely solemn as he left the corridor outside the study.


    Then he looked around, east and west, casually found a maid, and under the pretense of Yan Chen''s orders, had her arrange an empty guest room for him. He temporarily settled down in Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    Tonight, the earthquakes in Xinjie City were incessant, and all kinds of ghosts and monsters had emerged!


    Qiu Tu had the "Crisis Countdown" to impending dangers in darkness, so he wouldn''t be foolish enough to go home.


    It was safer to stay at Yan Chen''s place!


    In life, one should be bold when necessary, cautious when required.


    Continuous caution was the way of the coward, and constant boldness the way of the rash ¡ª one must adapt to the situation!


    [6 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [3 days (imminent dangers in darkness)]


    ....


    Meanwhile, on the periphery of Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    A shadow was crouching on a large tree branch.


    The darkness blurred his existence, and the blue moonlight that fell upon him seemed to pass right through him as though he were transparent.


    He held an old-fashioned rifle and wore goggles, silently observing Yan Chen''s vast mansion for a while.


    In his view, the entire mansion was filled with guards and secret sentries, resembling a dragon''s den and a tiger''s lair ¡ª easy to break into, but hard to come out of.


    So... having seen Qiu Tu enter the mansion without coming out for a long time, he picked a leaf and chewed it in his mouth, murmuring, "The target is too cunning... there''s simply no chance to make a move."


    "I wonder if this will delay Old Qin''s plan..."


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Qin Family''s mansion in Xinjie City.


    Qin Heng (Old Master Qin) wore a pair of silver-white handcuffs with an iron-blue expression on his face. Accompanied by several soldiers, he boarded a prison van.


    He truly had the demeanor of a hero. Even now, trapped and helpless, he maintained a composed face, as if he had a plan up his sleeve.


    The man responsible for arresting and escorting him was a burly colonel from the Security Department, who held a rank equivalent to his, an act that served to save his face.


    And before being pushed into the van by the colonel, Qin Heng paused. He covered his mouth with a cough, then quietly asked, "Colonel Fan, might it be possible to arrange a meeting with Director Dai? I believe there may have been some misunderstanding in all this."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Colonel Fan said with a laugh, "Commissioner Qin, of course. Don''t worry, I''ll submit your request."


    "But... as you know, Director Dai is very busy today. We didn''t just catch you; we''ve arrested dozens of mid and high-ranking officials."


    "Your case is not the highest priority here. So when he''ll meet you, I can''t guarantee."


    Qin Heng hadn''t really wanted to see Dai Yukang; he only wanted to gauge the situation''s severity through Colonel Fan''s attitude towards him.


    Though... hearing that they had caught dozens of others and his own priority wasn''t all that high sounded like his case wasn''t so serious.


    Moreover, he had heard before his arrest that the Security Department had apprehended one commissioner, one director, and five deputy directors.


    But... Qin Heng was a crafty old fox.


    He sharply sensed that the scale of this evening''s arrests went far beyond what Colonel Fan had described.


    And if Colonel Fan was lying to make him let down his guard...


    Then...


    ''It seems I must prepare for the worst.'' Thinking so, Qin Heng''s gaze deepened profoundly...


    .....


    At the same time.


    The suburban villa area on the outskirts of Longshan Road.


    Inside another villa not more than 100 meters away from the small villa of Qian Dafu and his wife.


    Wang Xi, who had the day off, and a Masked Man in Suit, both armed with pistols, brazenly sat in the middle of the villa''s hall.


    At their feet lay fresh blood, where several men were bound hand and foot, lying in puddles of blood, eyes wide open, already breathless.


    Three women, also bound but naked, were shivering and crouching at the feet of Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit.


    From their swollen eyes and the scars all over their bodies, it was clear that they had just endured brutal torment.


    After a brief exchange with the exercising Wang Xi, the Masked Man stood up, armed with a pistol, turned off all the lights in the villa, then took out a match and lit a blood-red candle carved with strange patterns!


    That candle flickered slightly in the pitch-black villa, its shadow seeming to stretch indefinitely!


    He placed the candle in the center of the living room, and, facing the three scarred women and the pools of blood, the Masked Man suddenly spread his arms wide!


    "The world thanks me!"


    "My parents are grateful to me!" Discover hidden tales at empire


    "I guard this filthy world!"


    "I save these sinful beings!"


    "I shall realize my desires, achieve immortality, and become omnipotent!"


    As he chanted, specks of light emerged from the bodies of the dead men, from the blood on the floor, and from the wounds on the women, and with his inhales, he absorbed them all into his body!


    After inhaling all the specks of light, the Masked Man''s expression contorted as if under the influence of drugs.


    He bowed deeply to the candle.


    "''God,'' please guide your faithful!"


    With his prayer, the candlelight flickered intensely, causing the candle''s shadow to twist like a disastrous omen, frantically contorting in the dim villa!


    He seemed to pause for a moment, then cocked his head to listen...


    After a while, he turned slowly, looking out the villa window into the dark night, his gaze profound,


    "A night of chaos? A moment when order shatters?"


    "Hahaha! This is our turf!"


    With those words, the Masked Man stood up abruptly. Then he grabbed Wang Xi, who was still pushing himself against a woman, "Stop it! We''ve got work to do!"


    ------


    Still updating with three chapters of 10,000 words! Here are two chapters of 7k first, and I''ll update with another chapter before 14:00 this afternoon! I ask for Monthly Tickets! I ask for subscriptions!

 Chapter 126 Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Wang Xi, who had been indulging in pleasure, was now buried in hard work, oblivious to what the man in the mask was saying.So... he was somewhat baffled when he was yanked to his feet, still clutching the woman in front of him.


    As he turned his head and saw that it was the man in the mask who had pulled him up, he quickly let go of his grip.


    Then, while he was pulling up his trousers, he asked in confusion, "Boss, what happened?"


    Upon hearing Wang Xi''s question, the Suit Man looked out at the pitch-black night view and the unceasing heavy rain, and a grotesque, malevolent smile emerged from beneath the mask. "God has just shown us a new path..."


    "Tonight will be our hunting night!"


    "Hunting night?" Wang Xi''s face was full of confusion.


    The man in the mask took out a pink potion from the pocket of his suit, his face expressing madness and desire, "Yes! Hunting night!"


    "We must let ''God''s'' seeds be sown all over this sinful city, making it our ultimate hunting ground!"


    If Qiu Tu were here right now, he would recognize the potion bottle as extremely familiar because... It was identical to the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he had used many times before!


    Wang Xi obviously also knew what the potion and ''God'' symbolized, so upon hearing the man in the mask''s words, his face suddenly became much more hesitant.


    He pondered before speaking, "Boss... maybe we should consider this more carefully."


    "This might be too dangerous for us, the Investigation Bureau..."


    "Slap!" Before he could finish, the Suit Man slapped him across the face!


    The man in the mask''s eyes were blood-red as he glared at Wang Xi fiercely, "Do not question ''God''s'' decisions!"


    "You are ''blaspheming''!"


    With that, he drew a pistol from his waist and pointed it at Wang Xi''s head, threateningly saying, "Blaspheme again, and believe me, I''ll blow your brains out!"


    Wang Xi staggered from the slap, his face quickly swelling, his eyes full of resentment.


    But when he saw the crazed look of the man in the mask, and the dark muzzle of the gun, he cowered... S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He hastily apologized, nodding repeatedly, "Yes, boss. My fault, my fault. Let''s go hunting now! Go hunting!"


    Seeing Wang Xi submit, the Suit Man seemed pleased as his expression quickly changed, giving him an approving look before patting him on the shoulder, "That''s my good companion! ''God''s'' faithful believer!"


    After speaking, he pointed the gun at the several naked women on the sofa who had just been exercising with them.


    He tilted his head, squinted his eyes, and watched them with a crazed look, "God tells us, everyone has the right to choose their own life."


    "Now, I am going to kill you. You have 10 seconds, you can choose to run, you can choose to scream, you can also choose to beg for mercy..."


    "All the choices are in your hands!"


    Upon saying this, he paused, then continued counting down with a fearsome tone, "Now, I start counting."


    "10..."


    "9..."


    "8..."


    Upon hearing the man in the mask''s words, the three naked women showed faces of terror.


    They struggled to roll off the sofa and, heedless of their nakedness, they frantically ran toward the villa''s entrance!


    "Bang! Bang!"


    Two gunshots rang out, and the two women at the front were shot in the back and collapsed to the ground. Blood spread beneath them, and with disbelieving faces, they turned back to look towards the man in the mask.


    The man in the mask laughed maniacally with a "ha ha."


    Then he walked step by step toward the last woman.


    The final woman was already petrified with fear. She had collapsed to her knees when the gun went off.


    Now, seeing the man in the mask approaching slowly with a gun in hand, tears streamed down her face as she frantically kowtowed to the man, begging him for mercy.


    But the man in the mask simply used the gun to lift her head gently, continuing to calmly count down in a soft voice, "7... 6... 5... 4..."


    Until he reached "1."


    At the sound of "Bang!" the woman''s head was blown apart by the bullet at close range, blood splattered onto her body, the floor, and the mask of the man in the mask...


    The man in the mask affectionately touched the blood on his mask, licked it clean with his tongue, then laughed softly to the slowly falling corpse, "Don''t blame me for not giving you a choice..."


    "Although every choice leads to death..."


    After finishing, he got up and laughed wildly with "ha ha."


    In the darkness, the women''s eyes remained open in death, staring maliciously at him, but he was completely oblivious!


    Tiny pinpoints of light drifted from the corpses on the floor, entering his nostrils with his breath, filling his entire body!


    After laughing, the man in the mask gradually quieted down.


    His gaze, neither joyful nor sorrowful, swept over the villa that was now blood-soaked, then he said to Wang Xi, "Let''s go... Let''s start our hunt tonight."


    Wang Xi was obviously shocked by the scene that had just unfolded; he shrank back slightly, then asked, "Where... where are we going?"


    The man in the mask thought for a moment, then chuckled lightly, "First, let''s pay a visit to... Section Chief Kong Qingchang''s house."


    He shook the pink potion bottle as he spoke, the smile on his face growing more maniacal.


    "We''re going to spread the ''glory'' of ''God''."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, led by a maid, also arrived at Yan Chen''s vacant guest room in his villa.


    As a residence of one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, the guest room had everything one might need; Qiu Tu didn''t have to prepare anything extra to move in¡ªa stark contrast to his rundown home.


    So, after a simple clean up, he sat on the bed, beginning to ponder over his next plan of action.


    With the assertive intervention of the Security Department, the downfall of the Qin Family should just be a matter of time.


    Therefore, all Qiu Tu had to do was survive this period of chaos, and he should be safe.


    What remained to be seen was whether his plan to pin the blame on Jia Shu would go smoothly.


    If not, he would use the channels of the Security Department to run away, starting anew in another city.


    And if he succeeded... it would mean that his recent efforts to drive a wedge between Yan Chen and Jia Shu had been effective.


    Then... he could set his next target on Jia Shu.


    Whether it was an illusion, Qiu Tu always felt that Jia Shu''s way of looking at him lately was strange.


    Combined with Jia Shu''s enigmatic satisfaction, Qiu Tu really had an ominous premonition...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu, following his daily habit, activated the "Loyalty Game" and then went to bed early, falling asleep...


    Perhaps because he had worked hard all day, he was really tired. It didn''t take long for Qiu Tu to fall into a deep sleep...


    The heavy rain continued, and the long night persisted in its madness...


    That night, too much happened...


    [5 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [2 and a half days (Dangers in the dark)]


    ...


    The next morning, as the rain stopped and the clouds dispersed.


    The sun shone down on Xinjie City, which had been soaked through by the overnight downpour, making the newly built city appear exceptionally fresh and clean.


    Possibly because he had gone to bed early last night, Qiu Tu woke up early, got out of bed, and freshened up.


    Then he casually called for the maid to prepare breakfast for him, and after eating, he went to the villa''s garden for his morning exercise.


    After running two laps and working up a sweat, Qiu Tu was just about to go back for a shower.


    But as he turned around, he saw a beautiful girl in a white dress slowly walking out from the villa, joyfully wandering in the garden.


    She was like a breath of elegant scenery that even the garden full of flowers planted by Yan Chen could not outshine.


    Qiu Tu curiously gave her a couple of glances, then called to a maid nearby and asked, "Who is that girl?"


    The maid glanced at the girl, then whispered, "That is the Bureau Chief''s daughter. She just arrived in Xinjie City last night."


    At the maid''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    The Bureau Chief''s daughter? Was that Yan Chen''s daughter?!


    Qiu Tu looked surprisedly at the elegant girl for a moment, recalling the wrinkled old face of Yan Chen.


    Then one thought rose in his mind: Yan Chen''s wife must be very beautiful, right?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly connected many other details from recent times.


    Like... how Yan Chen, despite being very busy with work and not interested in flowers, had built such a large garden at the entrance of his villa, filled with various expensive flowers.


    Like... there was no particular happy event yesterday, but Yan Chen had been cheerful from morning until night.


    Like... Secretary Bai, after reporting intelligence at about 7 pm, had disappeared without a trace.


    Like... Secretary Bai arriving at Yan Chen''s villa last night soaked on one side of his body.


    All these things Qiu Tu hadn''t paid much attention to at the time, but now, they seemed likely to be because of the girl before him, right?


    With this realization, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but make a simple judgment: It seems... Yan Chen truly dotes on his daughter a lot, doesn''t he?


    ''Maybe... this could be useful in the future?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu gave the girl another look and then turned his attention back, wiping his sweat as he returned to his guest room to shower.


    The morning passed quickly. At 8 o''clock, Qiu Tu once again hitched a ride with Yan Chen to the Investigation Bureau.


    However, unlike last night when he rode in the same car as Yan Chen, today, he was relegated to the following convoy.


    This seemed to foreshadow a change in his status in Yan Chen''s heart.


    Read exclusive adventures at empire


    But... Qiu Tu didn''t care, because he knew that didn''t mean much: his most crucial test¡ªthe one with Jia Shu¡ªhad not yet come.


    Last night, Qiu Tu''s communicator was never put on silent, just left by his bedside.


    He had anticipated that Jia Shu would certainly call to inquire about the whole affair. But unexpectedly, Jia Shu really had the patience to not contact him the entire night.


    But that did not mean the situation had passed, on the contrary, it heralded an even greater storm.


    Therefore, what was most important for Qiu Tu now was to figure out the current state of affairs.


    And what Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and the senior members of the Investigation Bureau thought about the events that had transpired yesterday!


    Whether in espionage or regular warfare, intelligence is the key of keys.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu got out of the car and followed Yan Chen into the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Yan Chen took the elevator, and of course, Qiu Tu couldn''t follow. So he watched Yan Chen ascend with a sullen face and then took the next elevator to the Political Department.


    He reached the 9th floor and had just stepped out of the elevator when a familiar figure approached: Eagle.


    Eagle passed by as if it were just a coincidence, nodding at Qiu Tu and then brushing past him.


    But... in the fleeting moment their bodies came into contact, unseen by others, he stealthily slipped a wad of paper into Qiu Tu''s pocket...


    ------


    I''ve only slept for two hours today, and I''m completely unable to fall back asleep. Then my head has been dizzy, luckily I had a detailed outline, or I might not have been able to write at all.


    Then after lunch, I went to the clinic for a checkup. The doctor gave me a few injections, prescribed some medicine, and told me I couldn''t stay up late like this anymore.


    So, I might slightly adjust my schedule while ensuring the manuscript reaches ten thousand words, such as updating one chapter in the evening, and after waking up the next day, updating two chapters in the late afternoon.


    I''ll see how I feel after writing tonight. I''m going to get some sleep now.

 Chapter 127 Kneel Down, Liu Fuping (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Feeling the Eagle''s movement, Qiu Tu was slightly taken aback.Because... this wasn''t his arrangement; he wouldn''t have the Eagle pass him a message at such a sensitive time.


    However, compared to Ah-Tai''s reckless affection, the Eagle and Ah-Kun were always more steady in their work.


    Therefore... Qiu Tu believed there must be some important intelligence that the Eagle needed to convey to him, which is why at such a sensitive time, he played this hand.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nonchalantly brushed past the Eagle.


    As their figures crossed, when he looked back again, one was already in the elevator, and the other had walked to the corner of the corridor.


    Watching the Eagle take the elevator slowly down, Qiu Tu went to the Investigation Bureau''s temporary office as if nothing had happened.


    Since today was the weekend and yesterday''s tasks had all been completed, the office of the investigation team was empty.


    Qiu Tu entered the office, locked the door behind him, went to the window, opened it, and then took out the wad of paper the Eagle had given him.


    He smoothed out the wrinkled paper and what met Qiu Tu''s eyes was the Eagle''s untidy scrawl.


    In the wasteland after the Cataclysm, being able to read and write was an extraordinary skill for the common people at the bottom of society ¡ª clearly, the Eagle didn''t possess it.


    Thus, the letter was obviously copied or transcribed from someone else.


    And... that person had to be someone the Eagle knew and trusted; otherwise, he wouldn''t take such a big risk to pass it on to Qiu Tu.


    In that instant, the image of a person appeared in Qiu Tu''s mind: Secretary Bai.


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai wasn''t a secret among the small group of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and the Eagle.


    After all, when Qiu Tu had brought the severely injured Secretary Bai home and taken care of him for so long, both the Eagle and Ah-Tai had seen him.


    Later, when Secretary Bai had recruited Qiu Tu into the Investigation Bureau, bringing everyone up with him, which brother didn''t praise Secretary Bai while drinking?


    Like other people who might pass information to Qiu Tu, such as Qin Shuman and Tang Feifei, the Eagle didn''t know them and certainly wouldn''t easily trust their identities to pass on intelligence for them.


    Having cleared up the identity of the letter writer, Qiu Tu then began to read the letter seriously from start to finish.


    After reading the letter, a smile couldn''t help but appear on Qiu Tu''s face.


    He had guessed right; the letter was indeed written by Secretary Bai.


    The reason was that Secretary Bai knew Qiu Tu would want to be aware of the movements of the Investigation Bureau''s higher-ups and Yan Chen''s attitude towards the whole incident yesterday.


    That''s why he wrote this letter, taking a risk after meeting with Yan Chen, and came to Old Alley Street in the middle of the night to find the Eagle, asking him to forward it to Qiu Tu.


    And to ensure that his identity wasn''t revealed, he had also instructed the Eagle to transcribe the letter before passing it on.


    Looking through the entire letter with its scribbles and distorted handwriting, one could imagine how desperate the Eagle, who was illiterate, must have felt receiving this task late at night...


    Even... because he couldn''t read, he transcribed many words incorrectly. Fortunately, the rough strokes were still there, so Qiu Tu, by guessing and inferring, also managed to understand the contents of Secretary Bai''s letter.


    According to what Secretary Bai said in the letter.


    Last night, after Qiu Tu left, Yan Chen had a small meeting with him and Ji Chen.


    In the meeting, Yan Chen went into detail about everything that had happened yesterday, emphasized the theft of the safe and the Qin Family being taken down by the Security Department, then asked for their opinions and suspicions.


    Ji Chen was the first to suspect Qiu Tu.


    After all, there were many peculiarities in Qiu Tu''s actions throughout the whole incident.


    Even if all those peculiarities had reasonable explanations from Qiu Tu... Ji Chen still felt that too many coincidences happening to one person definitely couldn''t be coincidental.


    But faced with Ji Chen''s questioning, Yan Chen didn''t agree.


    He even refuted Ji Chen''s views directly without waiting for Secretary Bai to speak.


    In the letter, Secretary Bai vividly described the scene at the time.


    Back then, Yan Chen sat in the executive chair, the dim light casting shadows over him as he smoked, frowning deeply while explaining to Ji Chen... Explore more stories at empire


    "There are a few reasons why I don''t suspect Qiu Tu," he said.


    "First, the safe is placed in the rest area of my office. When storing the evidence, I did not allow Qiu Tu to follow me inside."


    "Instead, I had Secretary Bai and him wait outside."


    "Therefore, he had no idea where I placed the evidence, nor did he know the combination to the safe."


    "So, he was unable to steal the evidence I stored."


    "Second, even if he had a ''Cataclysmic treasure'' that could move items without needing location data,"


    "But... since yesterday noon, he has been by my side the whole time, hardly ever leaving my sight, nor interacting with anyone else."


    "... He simply had no time to carry out the crime." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If we assume it was a group crime, then... the whole case becomes extremely complicated. Because anyone could avoid suspicion through the method of group crime."


    "And even if we suppose he did commit the crime as part of a group, it doesn''t add up."


    "Because... he has no motive."


    Speaking of this, Yan Chen narrowed his eyes, casually tapped in the air with the hand holding his cigarette, and said seriously, "Aside from random crimes, all criminals need a motive."


    "Qiu Tu is someone I personally promoted. I''ve been quite fair to him, and his position is low, with plenty of room to rise."


    "Following me, his advancement shouldn''t be an issue."

 Chapter 127 Kneel Down, Liu Fuping (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "And just before the evidence was stolen, he had been indirectly expressing his achievements to me, seeking a promotion in rank!""And I... Although I didn''t give him a clear reply, I also implied that I would consider it carefully. He should understand what I mean!"


    At this point, Yan Chen said with a serious face, "So, under these circumstances, how high a price would the Security Department have to offer to buy him off?"


    "Captain?"


    "The Qin Family''s assets?"


    "Money?"


    Yan Chen shook his head, "Not to mention that the Security Department wouldn''t offer these conditions, even if they did... it would only be a one-off deal. It''s far less promising than working well for me, with a bright future ahead."


    "So, unless there is some irreconcilable conflict between him and me, there''s no way he would betray me."


    Having said this, Yan Chen crushed his cigarette butt in the ashtray and summarised, "Moreover, I had suspected him before. It turned out that I was wrong and it delayed many things because of it."


    "This time, I don''t want to make the same mistake again."


    "So, let''s talk about other suspects... Do you think Jia Shu could be one?"


    The rest of the letter continued with the three people''s speculations about Jia Shu''s identity.


    Overall, it was: highly suspicious!


    Clearly, after several of Qiu Tu''s leads and efforts to drive a wedge, Yan Chen had become deeply suspicious of his right-hand man...


    Having read the entire letter, Qiu Tu also had some guesses about why Secretary Bai had written to him.


    Continue your story on empire


    Secretary Bai actually didn''t know the role Qiu Tu played in the whole affair, nor did he know the truth.


    Most likely, he had seen Qiu Tu leave "dispirited" after being reprimanded by Yan Chen last night.


    Worried that Qiu Tu might have a burden on his mind or be scared, he took a risk in disclosing the content of the meeting to Qiu Tu ¡ª wanting to use Yan Chen''s affirmation to ease Qiu Tu''s inner anxiety.


    His purpose in doing this was similar to last time when he leaked information to Qiu Tu during "Yin Caimei''s death."


    He indeed was a confidant of Yan Chen, but... he also remembered the life-saving grace Qiu Tu had extended to him. So, without going against his conscience, he was willing to give Qiu Tu a bit more help.


    What he didn''t know, however, was that he got it wrong both times...


    Last time it wasn''t Qiu Tu who killed Yin Caimei, but he suspected it was Qiu Tu and secretly tipped him off.


    As a result, this time the evidence was tampered with by Qiu Tu, he thought it wasn''t Qiu Tu, yet still secretly tipped him off...


    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu found Old Bai to be quite interesting, always operating in reverse.


    Regardless of his motivations, however, the effect on Qiu Tu was the same.


    At the very least, Qiu Tu had a clear understanding of Yan Chen''s attitude towards him ¡ª despite disliking him, he did not suspect him.


    ''In that case... I have quite a bit more room to maneuver.''


    "This is good news."


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu took out a match and slowly burned the letter in his hand...


    "Knock, knock, knock."


    Just as Qiu Tu blew the ashes out the window, the door to his office was suddenly knocked on gently from the outside.


    Hearing the knock, Qiu Tu nonchalantly closed the window, then walked over to the office door and opened it.


    The office door opened, and the beautiful Liu Fuping was standing charmingly at the door.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, a smile that read ''just as I thought'' spread across her face, then she innocently asked, "Officer, have you... seen something of mine that I left in the office?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu didn''t think much of it. He hesitated for a moment before asking, "What thing?"


    Liu Fuping didn''t answer, instead, she smiled and walked into the office. She rummaged through Qiu Tu''s desk and finally took out a... black stocking from the drawer.


    "Found it!" Holding the stocking, Liu Fuping''s face showed delight.


    But then she looked at Qiu Tu with a puzzled expression and inquired, "However, it''s so strange... How did my stocking end up in your drawer, Officer?"


    As she spoke, she blinked her seductive, peach blossom eyes and drawled, "Could it be... did you deliberately hide it, Chief?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping feign ignorance and listening to her provocative words, Qiu Tu confirmed that the beautiful young woman in front of him was playing a very novel game...


    After all, when opportunity knocks, it''s foolish not to take it.


    So, as he closed the door, he looked at Liu Fuping, his eyebrows slightly raised, "Indeed. Why would your stockings be in my drawer?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pretended to ponder for a moment, then tested her with a counter-question, "Could it be... that you deliberately placed them in my drawer?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping burst into giggles.


    Her peach blossom eyes narrowed as she laughed and looked at Qiu Tu, seductively asking, "So, do you think... I did it on purpose, putting them in your drawer?"


    Qiu Tu found it amusing. He took steps closer to Liu Fuping, tugging the conversation again, "So you did... did you?"


    Liu Fuping didn''t answer. She sat on Qiu Tu''s desk, lifting her left leg, her round and smooth foot raised in front of him. And then... she slipped the rolled-up stockings onto her left foot, gradually pulling them up.


    "Hiss!" Qiu Tu swore, he really didn''t have certain fetishes in his past life.


    But... seeing Liu Fuping''s tempting appearance today, it seemed his tastes really did undergo a slight change.


    So... he reached out and grabbed Liu Fuping''s foot directly, then slowly caressed up along those slender legs bit by bit.


    The stockings felt silky, not much different from what he remembered.


    Liu Fuping''s body stiffened for a moment, possibly not expecting Qiu Tu to be so bold. Following his slow caresses, shivers ran through her body, and her waist went weak.


    But a married woman is still a married woman, not as shy as a young girl.


    So with a light blush and giggles, she caught Qiu Tu''s hand that was about to touch the top of her thigh, and said, "Chief, that area is off-limits... To enter there, there''s a separate price."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu didn''t force the issue. His hand stopped, and he looked at Liu Fuping with a smile, inquiring, "What''s the price?"


    Liu Fuping breathed out softly, "Talk about what you did yesterday?"


    Her eyes lifted slightly, a pair of peach blossom eyes shining with a soft light and exceptionally charming, "Your actions yesterday were quite impressive."


    "It feels like you had the whole Xinjie City in the palm of your hand."


    "If I hadn''t known some of your plans in advance, I might have been deceived by you too."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand that was on her leg, and with her other hand, she hooked his chin, saying coyly, "So... Chief, how did you do it?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu released his hand, stepped back two paces, and leaned on another desk, looking at Liu Fuping with a smile, "I knew you were seducing me for a reason." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Spill it... Who are you representing this time?"


    "Director Tang? Or someone from Eastern City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping hopped off the desk, giggling.


    Then, as she closed in and embraced Qiu Tu, she said, "Both."


    "Both Director Tang and Director Liu have nothing but praises for your actions yesterday."


    "Especially Director Tang..."


    "She gave me quite a torment last night."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping acted as if she was clutching at her heart, "It all got so sore."


    Watching Liu Fuping''s behavior, which seemed like complaining but was actually more of a seduction, Qiu Tu''s gaze suddenly grew dark and inscrutable...


    He smiled as he looked at the beautiful young woman before him, then asked, "Are you sure you want to know what I did yesterday?"


    Liu Fuping''s eyes brightened slightly, her smile at the corners of her eyes spoke volumes without words.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reached out, pulled her to him, and while gazing into her eyes, he said, "Then... kneel."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s eyes widened in disbelief as she looked at him.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    This is a three-update combo of ten thousand words, I''m posting two updates of 7k now. The third update will be out before 19:00. I''m off to sleep. Ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 128 Liu Fuping Got Scammed (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her an opportunity to think or resist. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.He reached out and pressed his hand on Liu Fuping''s head, then slowly but firmly pushed down.


    This time, Liu Fuping was clearly panicking.


    She hurriedly said, "Wait a minute, Qiu Tu. Just wait."


    As she spoke, she tried to retreat, but Qiu Tu, as if he had prepared for every possibility, wrapped his arm around her waist, immobilizing her.


    This time, Liu Fuping again felt the iron-like strength of Qiu Tu.


    She tried desperately to break free but was utterly unable to move.


    In the end, she was forced into the humiliating position of kneeling on the ground to prevent Qiu Tu from breaking her neck.


    However, it seemed like Qiu Tu was only interested in humiliating her because after he had forced her to her knees, he let go of both hands, simply leaning on the desk with half of his backside, flaunting Yue Kua in front of Liu Fuping as if to give her a final choice.


    Today, Liu Fuping was indeed dressed very attractively with a form-fitting uniform and skirt, paired with half a pair of stockings.


    One leg sheathed in black silk, the other bare, she knelt before Qiu Tu in a way that easily incited a desire to conquer.


    Qiu Tu looked at her impassively, waiting for her final decision.


    Liu Fuping bit her lips fiercely, her eyes full of humiliation as she glared at Qiu Tu.


    Although she was a spy, she was not the kind who traded her body for intelligence.


    Even if she had something with Tang Feifei, it was because she truly had feelings for Tang Feifei.


    But now, kneeling on the ground with Qiu Tu pressing down on her, she felt like her dignity was being crushed underfoot.


    Looking up at the indifferent face of Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping took several deep breaths as if intending to turn and leave.


    But... just as she lifted her foot to step away, for some reason, she suddenly felt an impulse to let everything crash and burn.


    She closed her eyes, yanked open Qiu Tu''s zipper, then... leaned in.


    Even though he felt that warm, smooth comfort, there was no change in Qiu Tu''s expression.


    The scene was remarkably suggestive and amorous, yet the atmosphere was very heavy and oppressive.


    And so, after about ten minutes. Accompanied by a stifled grunt from Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping collapsed to the ground, coughing nonstop.


    After coughing, she wiped the corner of her mouth and looked up at Qiu Tu with humiliation, saying indifferently, "Intelligence!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s expression had softened quite a bit.


    As he zipped up his trousers, he asked curiously, "Intelligence? What intelligence?"


    Liu Fuping''s eyes widened, "The intelligence of all your actions yesterday!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu wore a look of utter confusion, "What actions?"


    "I was with Director Yan all night yesterday, I didn''t do anything."


    "You!" Liu Fuping was livid!


    She abruptly stood up, her face not knowing whether it was choked, angry, or flushed with embarrassment, but it was definitely red!


    She glared at Qiu Tu, "You, you, you liar! After all I did, you...."


    When she spoke, Qiu Tu innocently replied, "After all you did? But... wasn''t this a mutual affection, a willing act between us?"


    As he said this, he gave Liu Fuping a look of feigned surprise, turning the accusation back on her, "Sister Liu, could it be that your intentions towards me aren''t pure? That you didn''t do that out of fondness?"


    Liu Fuping: .....


    "Drop dead!"


    Enraged, Liu Fuping snatched up the documents from the desk and flung them at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu dodged with a laugh and then slipped out the door.


    But before fleeing, he didn''t forget to look back and compliment her, "Thank you for your help today, Sister Liu."


    "I owe you one! I''ll repay you at your place another day!"


    "Drop dead! Drop dead!" Hearing this, Liu Fuping became even more infuriated, wishing she could take off her high-heels and nail Qiu Tu with them!


    However, after Qiu Tu had disappeared and she had calmed down, Liu Fuping''s mouth curved into a faint smile for no apparent reason.


    It seems like... she had been taken advantage of. But Qiu Tu hadn''t really treated her as a woman who would trade her body for intelligence, and was that strangely pleasing to her?


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping was stunned for a moment, then as if suddenly realizing something, she opened her mouth and took a breath, "Eek... so fishy. Ugh...."


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Having finished his affair with Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu wandered for a short while before finding an empty conference room.


    He looked around to see if anyone had noticed, and after confirming no one had, went into the vacant conference room.


    Closing the door behind him, Qiu Tu walked over to the window, took out his communicator, and dialed Qin Shuman.


    Before the call connected, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but also think back to what had just happened with Liu Fuping.


    In truth, he hadn''t employed any schemes just now. He simply wanted to teach Liu Fuping a "lesson," that was all.


    This beautiful young woman, recently taking advantage of her good relationship with him, went behind his back to secretly look for case files, and today she dared to seduce him, trying to withdraw intelligence.


    If we don''t discipline them now, they''ll eventually become unbearable.


    That''s why Qiu Tu had suggested those actions, half pressuring and half implying.


    I must say... it was quite satisfying.


    That move wasn''t a loss.


    As he thought this, the phone connected.


    Possibly because Qiu Tu had exerted himself a bit earlier, as soon as the call connected, Qin Shuman curiously asked, "Qiu Tu, you sound a bit tired. Did you not rest well last night?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quickly coughed twice, "It''s nothing... just that the cases these past few days have been a bit troublesome, consuming quite a bit of energy, that''s all."


    After saying this, he quickly changed the subject, discussing the matter at hand, "By the way, how''s the investigation of the case going?"


    "What''s the current progress?"


    When Qiu Tu asked, Qin Shuman''s expression also became serious.


    At this moment, she stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window in her office, her green military uniform particularly striking.


    She spoke softly, "The case is progressing smoothly. After all, the mid-to-high-level people we''ve captured aren''t real spies; most of them haven''t been trained, so they''re relatively easy to deal with."


    "Plus, with the various pieces of evidence you provided, a little interrogation was all it took to get confessions out of them."


    "The only troublesome one is Commissioner Qin Heng."


    "He''s the main culprit and has some resistance to interrogation. He answered all the questions we posed and all the evidence we presented."


    "Although some answers were far-fetched and he shifted the blame onto others, it... indeed makes it difficult to come to a definitive conclusion."


    "And because of his status as a commissioner, we can''t use the Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures."


    "So, we''re also troubled about how to break through his defenses."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze revealed a hint of contemplation...


    It seems Old Master Qin is indeed tough to deal with...


    Is there another way to target him specifically?


    While Qiu Tu thought this, Qin Shuman had already moved on to a different topic, saying, "Qiu Tu, don''t worry about us here."


    "I will make sure to urge the interrogation department to solve the case quickly and bring this case to an end as soon as possible."


    "But you need to be careful yourself."


    "Although we have already attracted most of the attention, there''s no guarantee that other forces haven''t remembered you as the instigator and might act against you."


    "And..." As she said this, Qin Shuman paused, then continued, "Now, the situation in Xinjie City is chaotic, with major cases emerging one after another."


    "Last night, a wealthy family was massacred."


    "Not only did he and several bodyguards die, but even his wife and two daughters were violated one after the other and brutally killed."


    "The scene was not only extremely bloody but also showed traces of Catastrophe Power and Cataclysmic Creatures."


    When Qiu Tu heard Qin Shuman''s words, he was stunned, then the images of Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit emerged in his mind...


    These past few days.


    He had the Loyalty Game running every night.


    Similar to the previous days, he chose Wang Xi vs. Ah-Kun and Wang Xi vs. Ah-Tai for the "combat game" selections!


    As for the "Salvage Game," since it could only use subordinates with Loyalty over 90,


    Qiu Tu only had Ah-Xiong and Ah-Kun available for salvage.


    In these four games, subordinates on Qiu Tu''s side achieved a record of three wins and one loss.


    The only loss was the fight between Ah-Kun and Wang Xi.


    Wang Xi seemed to be evolving all the time. His weapon for fighting had shifted from the initial syringe to a brick, then from a brick to a kitchen knife... and this time, it turned directly into a handgun!


    Ah-Kun, unarmed, was naturally no match for Wang Xi with a handgun and was promptly dealt with.


    Helpless, the next evening Qiu Tu could only send out his strongest man: Ah-Tai, hoping to see if Ah-Tai could subdue Wang Xi with the handgun.


    But... Wang Xi''s condition last night was anyone''s guess.


    Even though he was armed with a handgun, he looked utterly listless, so after Ah-Tai took two bullets, he managed to win the game with a cauldron-sized fist, battering Wang Xi until his face was swollen and bruised!


    That also brought another small segment of Wang Xi''s Memory Fragment to light.


    Recorded in the Memory Fragment... was Wang Xi violating women in a villa, the Masked Man in Suit counting down from ten before brutally killing the three women and praying to "God."


    After watching that Memory Fragment, Qiu Tu immediately felt sick to the core.


    He wished he could immediately capture Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit and execute them with a single shot!


    Unexpectedly, today Qin Shuman brought up this very case.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but also recall Old Master Qin trading for Immortality with "God"...


    So, he hesitated for a moment, then tentatively asked, "Shuman, may I ask you something? Does ''God'' exist in this world?"


    ------


    It''s still three updates of 10,000 words haha, with the first two updates of 7k. The third update will be posted before 19:00. I''m off to sleep. Vote for the Monthly Ticket! Subscribe!

 Chapter 129 What is

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s sudden inquiry, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but become serious.Standing by the French window with her arms crossed, she then solemnly said, "Qiu Tu... I must tell you: there are no ''gods'' in this world."


    "All those who claim to be ''gods'' are merely elusive charlatans trying to play god."


    "They usually fear the light. That''s why they deceive the people with deities and faith."


    Possibly fearing that Qiu Tu would stray onto the wrong path, Qin Shuman thought carefully for a moment before expanding on her explanation.


    She said, "Now... after all, it is the post-Cataclysm era, and the entire world''s Order is very chaotic. Moreover, the matter of Catastrophe Power hasn''t been publicized to the masses."


    "This leads to some powerful Cataclysmics or Cataclysmic Creatures exploiting the information gap to masquerade as deities, attracting followers, and harvesting their faith."


    "The former is less troubling since they are still part of humanity, merely Degenerating for vanity, wealth, or beauty."


    "Although we must crack down hard on such behavior, the actual harm isn''t considered serious."


    "But the latter is extremely frightening...."


    "It means that the Cataclysmic Creature is likely a higher-order being, very powerful, and possesses intelligence similar to humans."


    "Only then could it seek to grow stronger by attracting believers in the material world and spreading its power, in hopes of descending upon the material world."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then asked in surprise, "So, by spreading its power, a Cataclysmic Creature can descend upon the material world?"


    Qin Shuman, hearing this, solemnly said, "Yes."


    She gazed at her reflection in the French window and slowly explained, "The idea that the spirit can influence reality, though often recorded by scholars and authors, has never been verified and has thus remained a legend throughout history."


    "However... ever since the material world went through that great Cataclysm, and the non-material world was born, everything has changed."


    "The non-material world is an ocean of spirit, where the spirit of all living beings can play a significant role."


    "The purer and more extreme the desires of a being, the more it can provoke changes there."


    "Therefore, when a large number of beings devoutly believe in a certain Cataclysmic Creature and pray for its descent into the real world... then that force can penetrate the world''s barrier, summoning the Cataclysmic Creature known as ''god'' to descend!"


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman provided an example, "Take, for instance, the Cataclysmic Creature born from ''Brave New World'' that once devastated six or seven cities under the jurisdiction of the Third Sanctuary."


    "It too had once descended upon the real world due to its multitude of followers."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu grew serious. He couldn''t help thinking of what Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit had done: sacrifices, spreading the "glory of god"...


    Looking at it this way, they too must be attempting to summon ''god'' to descend, right?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu hesitated a bit: then... the ''god'' that Old Master Qin made a deal with, it should differ from their ''god'', shouldn''t it?


    He was a bit puzzled: don''t these Cataclysmic Creatures have their own territories? Would two ''gods'' set their sights on Xinjie City at the same time?


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu wanted to continue discussing the matter of ''god'' descending with Qin Shuman.


    But... perhaps the topic of ''god'' was just too sensitive. After giving Qiu Tu a brief explanation, Qin Shuman laughed and switched the subject, "Let''s not talk about that for now."


    "By the way, why did you use your own communicator to call me? Aren''t you afraid of being discovered by Yan Chen and the others?"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu slowly came back to himself and explained with a smile, "I''m not afraid. In fact... I hope they find out."


    Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment upon hearing this, then some realization dawned on her, "That''s true. We in the Security Department have tricked you and even hijacked your case. If you didn''t call to question us, it would indeed be more suspicious!"


    Continuing, she said, "But... in that case, you should have called me last night, right? Isn''t it too late to call today?"


    At Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu immediately laughed and retorted, "How do you know I didn''t call?"


    Qin Shuman uttered an "Ah?" of surprise, looking confused.


    Qiu Tu said, "I just didn''t call you, that''s all."


    He paused for a moment, "I tried calling Lin Zuo all through the night."


    Qin Shuman didn''t understand, "Why?"


    The voice of Qiu Tu was gentle and magnetic, "Because I was afraid of disturbing your sleep. You had such a hard day yesterday, I didn''t have the heart to bother you....


    Qin Shuman was caught off guard by Qiu Tu''s abrupt expression of care and intimacy, despite they had been discussing serious matters, and her face flushed red.


    She bit her lip and chuckled secretly, "You must be more tired than me... get some rest...."


    Meanwhile, Lin Zuo, who had been standing in front of Qin Shuman''s desk reporting his work but found himself interrupted, was sporting dark circles under his eyes and wore a speechless expression as he watched the two speak on the phone.


    ''A pair of lunatics! Not willing to wake the chief, but ok with waking me up?!''


    ''One call after another! Had me hang up when they got through, to make another call!''


    ''Insisting this matched the Security Department''s attitude towards him!''


    ''Treating me like a machine for amusement!''


    ''I need rest too, alright!''


    And so, Lin Zuo silently vented his frustration at Qiu Tu''s inconsiderateness in his mind.


    Lin Zuo had been waiting until Qin Shuman hung up the phone with a beaming smile on her face before he slowly began to speak.


    With a stoic look, he glanced at Qin Shuman and asked with his signature indifferent tone, "It seems that both the division chief and the department head hold Qiu Tu in high regard?"


    He was one of only three people who knew about Qiu Tu''s deal with the Security Bureau.


    So, after pausing for a moment, he continued, "They even agreed to his excessive demands. They even granted him the rank of captain."


    He left unsaid the fact that he himself was only a lieutenant.


    Upon hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qin Shuman, who had been in a good mood from that phone call, paused mid-action.


    She put down the communicator heavily on the table and looked at Lin Zuo with a stern face, "Lin Zuo, don''t let jealousy cloud your judgment! Have you forgotten your Cataclysm Path?! This is a grave taboo!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Zuo shuddered and quickly responded, "Yes!"


    Lin Zuo wasn''t naturally prone to envy, so after the reminder, Qin Shuman didn''t press the issue further but instead sat down in a chair and reminisced, "Although I... hm, have a rather good relationship with Qiu Tu."


    "The conditions he proposed yesterday, however, did startle me," she admitted.


    "But when I reported them to the department head, he hardly hesitated before agreeing."


    As she said this, Qin Shuman sat down and, picking up a pen from the table, twirled it in her fingers and added, "At the time, I was a bit puzzled as well, just like you. But then the department head enlightened me."


    "He said that a person like Qiu Tu, who is resourceful, wise, knows how to strategize and balance interests, is exactly the kind of talent that all three major power institutions are vying for."


    "Even if we didn''t give Qiu Tu that rank, Yan Chen would soon grant it to him anyway, and his future would be boundless."


    "We''ve only expended an honorary captaincy to bring such a talent into the military fold, which is a gain for us," she commented.


    Qin Shuman paused, then remarked, "So¡­ the department head is looking at the future, not just the present."


    "After all... if a mere deputy division chief can cause such a stir in Xinjie City, imagine the enormous impact he could have once he truly climbs the ladder."


    "Some people are born to be the main character on the stage."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Lin Zuo nodded thoughtfully. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After finishing his call with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu stood by the office window, deep in thought.


    Wang Xi and the man in the suit with the mask were definitely up to some strange things in Xinjie City.


    From the information Qin Shuman disclosed, they seemed to be the followers or believers of a powerful Cataclysmic Creature, earnestly spreading that creature''s power.


    As for the benefits of doing this, although Qin Shuman did not specify, the information gleaned from Wang Xi''s memory fragments suggested that becoming a ''God''s'' disciple likely bestows some unique Catastrophe Power.


    This Catastrophe Power probably didn''t have as low a success rate as the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion and possessed all sorts of bizarre abilities!


    This thought led Qiu Tu to think of Old Master Qin, who had "immortality."


    If Qiu Tu''s guess was right, Old Master Qin was likely not so much making a deal with a ''God'' as becoming a ''God''s'' disciple, which is how he obtained the chance for ''immortality.''


    He had just framed it to people like Director Bai as a deal with a ''God'' to beautify his own actions.


    If so... then he must have done some far-fetched things to spread the ''God''s'' power as well, right?


    Yet... considering all the evidence exposed by the Qin Family thus far, apart from collusion with the United Front, nothing else seems amiss, does it?


    ''Is there something being overlooked?'' Qiu Tu wondered, furrowing his brows slightly.


    Just as Qiu Tu was at his wit''s end, suddenly, "knock, knock, knock..." the door of the vacant conference room was gently rapped from the outside.


    Qiu Tu turned around, only to see Liu Fuping pushing the door open and walking in.


    After entering, Liu Fuping complained to Qiu Tu without hiding her annoyance, "What are you, a rabbit? Always burrowing around. You just find an empty conference room and hide away in it."


    "I spent ages looking for you."


    At her words, Qiu Tu, leaning against the window with arms crossed, teased, "Doesn''t Sister Liu know whether I like to burrow around or not?"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell on Liu Fuping''s luscious red lips.


    Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red "swoosh" in an instant.


    At that moment, she seemed to recall once again the taste of Qiu Tu from not long ago...


    She glared seductively at Qiu Tu before saying, "Stop talking nonsense. I''m here to discuss important matters with you."


    "The Minister wants to see you."


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu froze for a moment, then his body involuntarily tensed up gradually.


    As expected... what was bound to come had arrived...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

 Chapter 131 Jia Shus Suspicion Maxed Out (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    But he had always thought Jia Shu''s "attack" would be about yesterday''s affairs.To his surprise, Jia Shu completely deviated from the expected script, first using a [Joint Investigation Application] to divert his attention.


    Then, while he was distracted, he directly probed him with a list of spies to test his response.


    Luckily, Qiu Tu''s acting skills had reached a masterful level by then.


    So, facing Jia Shu''s probe, Qiu Tu feigned ignorance and threw the question back, "But why is the minister asking me this question?"


    "I''m from the Interrogation Section, after all...." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Most people who are bad at lying tend to make a fatal mistake: God''s Perspective.


    With "God''s Perspective," they fail to see the traps in the other person''s questions when lying.


    Like the question Jai Shu just asked, he seemed to be seeking Qiu Tu''s opinion.


    But in reality, he was testing Qiu Tu''s[level of knowledge about the spy list leak]. Continue your journey on empire


    Because... theoretically, the spy list had nothing to do with Qiu Tu, not even half a Copper Yuan!


    As a member of the Interrogation Section who had never dealt with spies and had just joined the Political Department, completely unaware of the details of each department, how could he possibly analyze the killer or provide Jia Shu with advice?


    Therefore, had Qiu Tu wildly guessed or analyzed the spy leak himself, it would have exposed him. Countering with a question or not answering was actually the correct response.


    However, Jia Shu was obviously not an ordinary person. After hearing Qiu Tu''s response, he smiled and, adjusting his gold-framed glasses, continued, "But... that colonel from the military told me that you provided them with the list."


    At this point, Jia Shu pointed his index finger at Qiu Tu, saying with a snide smile, "He told me that you collaborated with the Security Department''s Investigation Department to cover your tracks, forcing them to deploy personnel to shield you. This led to the exposure of most of the military''s spies."


    "This has also led to severe criticism of the Investigation Department within the Security Department."


    "So, to mend the fold after the sheep have been lost, and to prevent these spies from being caught in one fell swoop, you took great pains to compile this spy list and handed it over to the Investigation Department, hoping they would redeem themselves by taking the blame."


    At this, Jia Shu''s smile turned colder as his eyes twinkled with a frosty glint, "Please tell me... how do you explain this?"


    It must be said, Jia Shu''s speculations and probes were indeed very intimidating.


    At least in that moment, Qiu Tu himself believed it!


    But the problem was... Qiu Tu wasn''t fighting alone. He had his "cheat."


    Betraying the Investigation Bureau and giving the Bureau''s spy list to the military would be grounds for a "secret execution" in any city.


    But the problem was... Qiu Tu''s Crisis Countdown clock didn''t start ticking!


    In the upper left corner, there were only those two hourglasses counting down.


    One was the [Yin Caimei case deadline] with 5 and a half days remaining, and the other was the [Danger in the Dark] with only 2 and a half days left.


    So... just by that, Qiu Tu knew Jia Shu was bluffing him!


    While he felt completely calm inside, he also had time to spot more flaws in Jia Shu''s words.


    The most important thing to determining if a statement is a lie is the number of details it contains.


    The more details there are, the easier it is to slip up, so instinctively, people reduce details when lying.


    Although Jia Shu had boldly used "Investigation Department" as a detail to intimidate Qiu Tu, if the colonel had already revealed the source of the intelligence to Jia Shu, there would have been no need to deliberately conceal who Qiu Tu''s "contact" was.


    Even without naming names, he could have used "Head of the Investigation Department" as a reference.


    But Jia Shu didn''t mention the Head of the Investigation Department or "Rain Butterfly," proving that he guessed Qiu Tu was likely working with the Investigation Department, but didn''t actually know who it was. Hence, the vague description.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu grew even more certain that Jia Shu was bluffing him!


    So he pretended to be astonished and enraged, bursting out, "Minister, someone is spreading rumors!"


    "How have I collaborated with the Security Department''s Investigation Department?"


    "All my contacts with the Security Department were authorized by you!"


    "And besides... how could I, a mere Deputy Staff Leader, possibly know the spy list?"


    "If I don''t know the spy list, how could I have given it to the Security Department?"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s flurry of questions, Jia Shu carefully studied Qiu Tu''s facial expressions. After not noticing any discrepancies, he rarely furrowed his brows....


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu refused to let it go, "Minister! You must stand up for me in this matter!"


    "If this accusation sticks, I can forget about promotion and raises, and I''ll never be able to hold my head high in the Security Department or the Investigation Bureau again!"


    "So, tell me which colonel has been talking nonsense! I want to report them up the chain!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s agitation, Jia Shu didn''t take it seriously. He soothed him with a smile, "Chief Qiu, don''t be agitated. Perhaps that colonel misspoke, or I misheard."


    "Or maybe he''s trying to deliberately sow discord between us."


    "These kinds of things are quite common among our brother departments."


    "Moreover, I haven''t chosen to believe it, have I?"


    "Otherwise, why would I entrust you with such an important task?"


    With that, Jia Shu also tapped the document in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Qiu Tu, though still visibly indignant, finally stopped insisting on making a report.


    After soothing Qiu Tu a few more times, Jia Shu then waved his hand, indicating that Qiu Tu could leave.


    Interestingly, Qiu Tu knew when to quit while he was ahead. After saluting Jia Shu, he took the documents and left Jia Shu''s office with an expressionless face.


    But after Qiu Tu had left, the smile on Jia Shu''s face slowly faded, as he watched the office door close slowly with a deep gaze.


    His face was filled with contemplation....


    After quietly reflecting for a while, Jia Shu slowly opened a notebook on his desk.


    It had several pages of scribbles and drawings. The events since Master Qin Si''s escape were all meticulously listed.


    Then.... Jia Shu wrote a bunch of comments and speculations with a vermilion pen.


    For instance.... It was Qiu Tu who actually forced Master Qin Si to flee.


    Qiu Tu was already collaborating with the Security Department by that time, which is why they covered for him.


    For instance.... On the day of Yin Caimei''s death, Secretary Bai must have suspected something was wrong with Qiu Tu''s identity and worried that he was the actual murderer, so he sneakily made a phone call to tip someone off.


    For instance.... The spy list from the Investigation Bureau within the military was leaked by Qiu Tu in order to make amends for the oversight.


    However, regarding how Qiu Tu got hold of the list, Jia Shu marked it with a bright red question mark, clearly guessing that he couldn''t figure out where Qiu Tu obtained the spy list from.


    y Like.... Yesterday, in the case of Commissioner Qin Heng, Qiu Tu was pretending to be earnest in investigating, but in reality, he had already informed the Security Department about all the details of the case, hence the scene where they extensively captured people afterward.


    As for the motive behind Qiu Tu''s actions, Jia Shu also clearly wrote two names: Qin Shuman and Yan Chen.


    Under Qin Shuman''s name, he noted two words "missing" and then.... an arrow pointing at Master Qin Si.


    Clearly, even though Yan Chen believed he had guessed wrong, Jia Shu still thought Qiu Tu was involved with Qin Shuman.


    He even suspected that the reason Qiu Tu chased away Master Qin Si was to take the opportunity to rescue Qin Shuman.


    All subsequent actions, including the targeting of the Qin Family, undermining Yan Chen and himself, were all because of this irreconcilable conflict.


    If Qiu Tu were here right now, seeing this notebook, he would probably break out in a cold sweat.


    After all, except for some minor details, the notebook contained almost the entire truth of the incident.


    After quietly reading the information on the notebook for a while, Jia Shu slowly closed it, his face revealing an exceptionally relaxed and content smile....


    ''This fruit is indeed mischievous, even at this stage, it''s still playing a part.''


    "But... finally, it''s almost time to close the net.... I can hardly contain myself anymore...."


    [Jia Shu''s Suspicion Level +0, Satisfaction Level +0]


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Having left Jia Shu''s office, Qiu Tu glanced at the popup notification and then frowned slightly.


    The lack of increase in [Satisfaction Level] was understandable to Qiu Tu. After all, very few could fathom a twisted mind.


    But the fact that the [Suspicion Level] hadn''t risen at all? That was a bit odd, wasn''t it?


    Qiu Tu was no fool; Jia Shu''s suspicions were blatantly laid out for him today.


    He even unabashedly fabricated lies to test him.


    This was almost a sign of an imminent falling out.


    If so, and the suspicion level remained unchanged, then.....


    ...wait a minute!


    It suddenly dawned on Qiu Tu to make a bold guess: Could it be that Jia Shu''s suspicion of him had been maxed out from the start?!


    So he never believed in him at all?


    So.... no matter what he did, his suspicion level wouldn''t change at all?!


    With that realization, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a chill run down his spine!


    He couldn''t help but look back, and for some reason, he felt as though Jia Shu, with his hands crossed below and propped against his cheeks, was gazing at him with an impassive look that seemed to penetrate through walls, observing his pre-death struggles.


    ''Damn it, I really can''t delay any longer! I must take him down soon!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then turned around and made for the executive elevator to the ninth floor of the Investigation Bureau!


    He planned to have a serious talk with that dangerous woman, Tang Feifei....


    After all, when it comes to life and death, "innocence" is worthless....


    ....


    After taking the elevator to the ninth floor, Qiu Tu walked towards Tang Feifei''s private office and rest area.


    ------


    Today is still 3 chapters with 10k words, first posting 2 chapters with 7k words, the 3rd chapter is estimated to be sent before 19 o''clock.

 Chapter 132 Stay with Me Tonight (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    As one of the three Deputy Directors of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei, despite being suppressed by Yan Chen, still held a rank and status within the organization.Therefore, the size and decoration of her office and rest room were second only to Yan Chen''s.


    Standing in front of the office door, which was a good four meters high, Qiu Tu "knock, knock, knock." knocked on the door.


    Accompanying Qiu Tu''s knock, a rustling sound came from inside the door. However... it took a good ten seconds before the office door was opened from the inside.


    As the door opened, who appeared before Qiu Tu was Tang Feifei''s assistant, the little spy from the Security Department, and one of Qin Shuman''s possession targets: Su Xiaowan.


    Today, with her hair pulled back in a ponytail and dressed in casual clothes, she looked like she had just exercised, with fine sweat on her forehead and a slightly flushed face, giving her the appearance of a youthful girl.


    Upon opening the door, before she could clearly see the person outside, she reflexively said, "I''m sorry, Director Tang is taking a nap. Please come back in the afternoon if you have any matters."


    After saying this, she seemed to have a bit of soreness in her arm, and then... she stretched her arms.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Taking a nap? Were you the one accompanying her?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu spoke with a strange expression, "Assistant Su. It''s me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Su Xiaowan finally looked up at Qiu Tu. Upon realizing it was Qiu Tu, a hint of delight flashed in her eyes, and she became much more alert.


    She glanced inside, then poked her head outside and whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu, what brings you here? Did you come to see me?"


    Qiu Tu was left speechless by the naive girl''s question. Was she really asking such a sensitive question so casually?


    Was she truly not worried about exposing herself?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu quietly reminded her, "Assistant Su, be discreet with your words and actions."


    "Today, I came to see Director Tang."


    After speaking, he looked inside and inquired, "Director Tang should be in there, right?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Facing Qiu Tu, Su Xiaowan of course wouldn''t lie, so the innocent girl nodded and said softly, "Yes, she''s in."


    After that, she added with some distress, "But... she told me to say she wasn''t in."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Once you go back, tell her that it''s me looking for her, and I won''t leave."


    Although Su Xiaowan was a bit simple, she was very obedient.


    So upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she closed the office door and went back inside to report.


    Indeed, it wasn''t long before she reappeared at the office door with a smile on her face, "The Bureau Chief is inside waiting for you."


    While waiting outside, Qiu Tu had been observing to see if anyone noticed him.


    Perhaps because it was the weekend, there was no movement on the ninth floor.


    But he knew that every second he delayed, the risk of being exposed increased, so upon hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and immediately slipped into Tang Feifei''s office.


    Unlike Yan Chen''s office layout and decoration, Tang Feifei''s office emphasized a more robust style.


    Both the furniture and the ornaments were mainly in dark grey with black as a secondary color. It didn''t look like the office of a beautiful woman, but rather that of a tough guy.


    Su Xiaowan closed the door and led Qiu Tu towards the rest room inside the office.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu hadn''t entered Yan Chen''s rest room to look around, but today he finally saw the full scope of the high-level rest room at Tang Feifei''s place:


    An area close to two hundred square meters, partitioned into several zones by cold walls. There was a living room, a bedroom, an audio-visual room, and even a fitness room!


    ''Damn luxurious!'' Qiu Tu thought as he looked around, following Su Xiaowan to the fitness room.


    But just as they reached the door of the fitness room, Su Xiaowan started taking off her uniform.


    Qiu Tu was startled, thinking he had stumbled upon some melodramatic "seduction trap."


    It wasn''t until Su Xiaowan took off her outer coat that Qiu Tu saw she was actually wearing a form-fitting outfit that hugged her figure perfectly.


    Looking at the fabric of the clothes and their curves, it somewhat resembled the yoga suits and yoga pants from Qiu Tu''s past life...


    With that guess in mind... as soon as the door to the fitness room opened, he saw Tang Feifei also wearing a set of matching tight-fitting clothes, practicing her boxing.


    The fitted clothes outlined her shapely, robust figure that exuded immense explosive power and resilience.


    She moved like a graceful leopardess, a proudly blooming tropical flower, throwing punch after punch in the fitness room, passionately shedding sweat!


    That silky tight waist, that healthy wheat-colored skin, and those ample, firm breasts... with every movement, it was as if she emitted a remarkable wildness and vitality!


    It had to be said, she was indeed an extraordinary woman.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was eyeing Tang Feifei, after swinging her last few punches, she gradually stopped her exercise.


    She took a few deep breaths, her cheeks rosy, her eyes bright as she looked at Qiu Tu and invited him, "Care to join?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly laughed and declined, "No thanks, I don''t know how."


    Tang Feifei didn''t say much, just smiled, "Then it seems you have a different matter to discuss with me today."


    After that, she waved her hand to Su Xiaowan, signaling her to go out.


    Having stripped off her clothes and preparing to continue her workout, Su Xiaowan looked bewilderedly at Tang Feifei, then at Qiu Tu, and pointed to her own face, "Me?"


    "Mhm," Tang Feifei made a sound of affirmation, "You''re off work, go home and rest."


    "Before you leave, remember to lock the office door."


    Su Xiaowan: ...


    Qiu Tu: ....


    The more he listened to this, the more awkward it sounded.


    Touching his nose, Qiu Tu felt as though Tang Feifei was deliberately showing off her power, and he... was unable to escape his fate.


    At this moment, Su Xiaowan also sensed something amiss. She couldn''t help but glance at Qiu Tu.


    But in front of Tang Feifei, how could Qiu Tu dare give any meaningful looks? So, she obediently picked up her uniform from the ground and left the gym.


    Soon after, following the rustling sounds of getting dressed, there was also the sound of the office door opening and then closing.


    After Su Xiaowan left, Tang Feifei picked up a towel from the rack, wiping the fine sweat from her neck while indifferently introducing to Qiu Tu, "This girl is a spy from the Security Department."


    "She serves as a conduit between me and the Security Department."


    "Any intelligence or information I want to leak to the Security Department can be pretended to be inadvertently mentioned to her. Soon, they will know on their side."


    "As for her... she might be a bit silly, but she''s cute and quite interesting. Most importantly, she isn''t too clever, so using her is reassuring."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Indeed, in front of a big shot like Tang Feifei, a greenhorn with clumsy methods like Su Xiaowan was practically transparent.


    A few probing words, a couple of glances were enough to discern the truth.


    And thinking back to when Su Xiaowan had said Qin Shuman would possess her to help deal with work, even earning the nickname "the half-asleep Assistant Su."


    Qiu Tu suddenly realized....


    Looking at it this way... actually, there had long been an unspoken understanding between Tang Feifei and the Security Department.


    It''s very likely that both sides were using Su Xiaowan as a medium for cooperation, conveying messages and negotiating terms in their own way.


    Furthermore, since this cooperation was conducted on an individual basis, what was being played was trust and understanding, thus even if two power institutions investigated, they''d find no trace of the cooperation.


    ''Masters indeed....''


    In that moment, Qiu Tu gained a new appreciation for the methods of Tang Feifei and the Security Department.


    After explaining Su Xiaowan''s identity to Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei had also finished wiping off her sweat. She tossed the towel to Qiu Tu while asking, "Did you come to see me because of yesterday''s incident?"


    There was admiration in her eyes, "I remember you did quite well yesterday. You played the three major institutions of Xinjie City like a fiddle with a few simple tricks."


    "If I''m not mistaken, Yan Chen had no suspicions about you, right?"


    Qiu Tu caught the towel, which carried the faint scent of jasmine from Tang Feifei''s body.


    ''Is this some special kind of constitution? Or has it been marinated?''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu casually replied, "Yes, Yan Chen indeed found nothing. But at Jia Shu''s place, I might have been exposed."


    "I feel there''s some danger. So, I wanted to deepen our cooperation."


    "Deepen our cooperation?" Tang Feifei, hearing this, half-closed her eyes and glanced at Qiu Tu with a hunter''s interest upon spotting its prey.


    "Sure," she said, "then... stay tonight and keep me company."


    "What are you dreaming of!" Qiu Tu cursed with a laugh, "Bureau Chief, I''m in the business of talent, not my body."


    Probably no one had ever dared to reject her so bluntly. Tang Feifei chuckled twice, her eyes becoming warmer as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    She upped the ante, "I can satisfy another one of your requests, as long as it does not cross my boundaries."


    Qiu Tu chuckled and walked away.


    He wasn''t the type to climb the ladder by selling his charms.


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    Ten or so seconds later, he returned to the gym with two bottles of expensive foreign liquor in hand, "How about two requests?"


    Tang Feifei had thought Qiu Tu had really left just now. Seeing him return as she was removing her tight-fitting shirt almost made her burst into laughter.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and asked with a smile, "Didn''t you say you only sell your talent, not your body?"


    Qiu Tu snorted dismissively, "There''s a first time for everything, right? How would you know if it isn''t delightful without trying?"


    For some reason, Tang Feifei felt that Qiu Tu''s attitude resembled that of a young girl who had strayed and was now falling into depravity.


    This novel experience did not diminish her interest due to Qiu Tu''s compliance but sparked a yellow light in the depths of her eyes once again....


    She gave Qiu Tu a look, suppressed her own powerful heartbeat, and then spoke, "Okay. Two requests then."


    Saying that, she half-smiled at Qiu Tu, her glance resembling a lazy but dangerous and wild lioness, "Wait for me. I''m going to take a shower."


    After saying this, she casually threw the shirt she had taken off on the floor and headed for the bathroom....


    ----


    Three updates, a total of 10,000 words! We''ve been surpassed on the Monthly Ticket leaderboard, I''m begging for Monthly Tickets! Updating again tonight!

 Chapter 133 Bureau Chief, No Resistance Allowed (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept over the tight shirt before landing on Tang Feifei.At that moment, Tang Feifei was like a proud queen, expressionlessly strutting towards the bathroom while stripping off her clothes one by one.


    Tight pants...


    White chest binder...


    Underwear...


    As each piece of clothing was discarded, by the time she reached the bathroom door, her body was completely uncovered, fully revealed to Qiu Tu for the first time.


    Her neck had graceful lines, her breasts were full yet firm, the lines of her vest delineating captivating curves, and her muscles across her body were solid without losing a woman''s softness. There was an indescribable wild beauty about her!


    Reaching the bathroom door, she turned back and arrogantly smiled at Qiu Tu before pushing the door open and walking in.


    Soon, the sound of "whoosh whoosh" from showering began in the bathroom.


    Hearing that suggestive noise, Qiu Tu''s mind seemed to conjure up images of Tang Feifei raising her arms to apply shower gel to her body.


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, he was indeed a little stirred.


    ''How can I be so unprofessional! All of this is for work! Work!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu diligently began to pick up Tang Feifei''s clothes from the floor and neatly piled them on the nearby shelf.


    After finishing this task, he approached the bathroom door, listening to the "whoosh whoosh" of the water and knocked, sincerely asking, "Director Tang, do you have a bath towel inside? Do you need me to bring it in?"


    Qiu Tu praised his own spirit of service.


    However, a cold voice from Tang Feifei came from the bathroom, "You can come in directly and scrub my back."


    Qiu Tu''s heartbeat sped up for a moment, and in the spirit of complete service, he tentatively asked, "Is it possible to scrub the front as well?"


    The sound of the water inside seemed to pause for a moment. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open, accompanied by mist, and a wheat-colored arm with droplets of water reached out from inside toward Qiu Tu. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But Qiu Tu wasn''t about to let Tang Feifei catch him so easily. He dodged with a "haha" and laughed as he moved out of the bathroom''s range, calling out from a distance, "Director, you wash up first, I''ll wait for you outside."


    After saying that, he hummed a tune and left the fitness room.


    The wet wheat-colored arm hung in the air for a moment. Then a light laugh from Tang Feifei could be heard from the bathroom.


    "Interesting."


    With that murmur, the bathroom door slowly closed and the sound of running water resumed...


    ...


    After teasing Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu brought liquor and glasses to the lounge''s living room.


    He placed the alcohol and glasses on the coffee table, and then sat down on the sofa to wait for Tang Feifei.


    Somehow, Qiu Tu always felt that his current relationship with Tang Feifei was akin to the dynamics he had with Liu Fuping today.


    It was always the superior using power to coerce the subordinate into servitude with seduction.


    ''Indeed, those who do wrong will eventually face retribution.''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu propped his hands behind his head and rested his feet on the coffee table, blankly staring at the ceiling, contemplating the terms of his deal with Tang Feifei...


    Lost in thought for who knows how long, as Qiu Tu was still immersed in his reflections, a fragrant breeze carrying moisture softly hit his face.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and turned to look, only to see Tang Feifei wrapped in a white towel with her wet hair, wiping it with a towel as she walked towards him.


    She didn''t even ask before sitting snugly against Qiu Tu.


    "Paji~"


    From the sound made when her buttocks touched the sofa, one could infer the roundness and firmness of her behind.


    Qiu Tu also felt the sofa sink, and it seemed his leg touched Tang Feifei''s.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    He felt that today''s Tang Feifei had really gotten a hold of him.


    ''I can''t let her set the pace!''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu picked up the square glasses from the coffee table, pouring drinks for both of them.


    After finishing with her hair, Tang Feifei naturally took the square glass.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a half-smile, then sipped the drink. She didn''t press directly but started with business matters, "So, how do you propose we cooperate more deeply?"


    Seeing the conversation turn to business, Qiu Tu also relaxed a bit.


    His facial expression gradually became serious, and then he said, "Jia Shu is up to something."


    Tang Feifei glanced at him, "And what about it?"


    Qiu Tu, "Is there a way to settle this once and for all?"


    Tang Feifei paused, almost thinking she''d misheard, "You mean...?"


    Qiu Tu raised his hand, making a downward slashing gesture.


    Tang Feifei:.....


    She laughed, "If there were such an opportunity, do you think Yan Chen would still be alive?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked at her in astonishment, "Yan Chen is alive because you can''t beat him, right?"


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    Perhaps power is a taboo subject for Tang Feifei; upon Qiu Tu''s words, a vein on her forehead throbbed, and she looked at Qiu Tu grimly, "Who told you I can''t beat Yan Chen?"


    Qiu Tu mentally noted "intelligence acquired" to himself.


    He hadn''t guessed wrong; this woman must be among the top in terms of martial strength in all of Xinjie City.


    Tang Feifei continued, "It''s one thing to be able to beat someone, another to have the opportunity to do so."


    "Given Yan Chen''s identity, to dare touch him would be to cut oneself off from the Sanctuary, not just completely giving up one''s prospects there, but also facing pursuit from all the major Sanctuaries."


    "Don''t underestimate such a pursuit. Bear in mind that even ordinary people with firearms can harm regular Cataclysmics."

 Chapter 133 Bureau Chief, No Resistance Allowed (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    "So, it doesn''t take much, just send a troop to persistently hunt down a Cataclysmic, and sooner or later, that Cataclysmic will be worn down to death."As she said this, Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a piercing look, "So, drop that unrealistic thought of yours early on."


    "Jia Shu, as the head of the Political Department and a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, is someone who is truly listed in the Sanctuary."


    "Kill him, and you''re finished too."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu thoughtfully responded, "What if he makes a move on me?" S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei laughed, and as she wiped her hair, she coolly counter-questioned, "Who are you? Someone who''s never even appeared on the Sanctuary''s census?"


    She left the rest unsaid, but Qiu Tu understood: if he died, the Sanctuary wouldn''t even know it. So


    ''Indeed... This is going to be difficult...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then asked further, "Then... at what rank would Jia Shu no longer be able to lay hands on me as he pleases?"


    Tang Feifei replied icily, "According to Sanctuary regulations, a Section Chief in the Planning Area can register with the Sanctuary, becoming an official resident."


    "A Department Head is formally included in the Sanctuary''s roster of officials and enjoys various special privileges and allowances."


    "So...." She said, glancing at Qiu Tu, "you just need to rise one more level, and then Jia Shu won''t be able to touch you easily."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a stir within.


    Indeed... to protect myself, promotion is most crucial!


    Promotion can not only enhance one''s own strength but also confer a higher status, making enemies hesitant to move!


    With this in mind, he asked again, "By the way, how is the progress of your application to the Sanctuary to investigate Jia Shu?"


    When the subject came up, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face tightened slightly. She said, "Your plan started too suddenly. I couldn''t coordinate in time."


    "So, it wasn''t until last night that I managed to arrange for a confidant to apply to the Sanctuary for an investigation under the pretext of Jia Shu''s malfeasance and silencing key suspects."


    "But it''s the weekend. The earliest response from the Sanctuary would not come until Monday afternoon."


    "Actually, before yesterday, I wasn''t too confident about the Sanctuary''s reply. I even planned to call back to the Sanctuary to see if I could push it forward proactively."


    "But after yesterday''s actions by the Security Department, the Sanctuary must have noticed Xinjie City already."


    "Given the way the Sanctuary operates, they''re likely worried that such a commotion could disrupt the unity and stability of Xinjie City."


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    "This investigation I''ve submitted might just align with their intentions. So, it''s highly likely that the Sanctuary will send someone down to investigate Jia Shu while overseeing the work of the Security Department."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei also turned to look at Qiu Tu beside her.


    Every move of hers carried an indescribable rhythm, exuding a powerful beauty that was captivating.


    "I have to say, your tactics yesterday were splendid. I believe that except for the few of us who know the details and might guess something, most were fooled by you."


    "You don''t seem like someone from the lower echelons at all, but more like an outstanding con artist, a politician with some measures."


    Light flickered in the depth of her eyes, filled with amber glow, "You... are really interesting."


    Possibly prepared for sacrifice, Qiu Tu seemed much more at ease.


    He didn''t answer her question, but looked straight into Tang Feifei''s eyes, raised his glass in hand, and said with a smile, "Let''s drink."


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei averted her gaze and sipped her wine lightly.


    Qiu Tu also took a sip, then spoke firmly, "Since there''s no way to take out Jia Shu, I might need your protection."


    Tang Feifei drank her wine, her face full of curiosity as she watched him, "Are you so sure Jia Shu will make a move on you?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, "Not certain."


    "But I prefer to be cautious in my actions. I don''t want to put myself in danger."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei laughed so hard she was nearly shaking, "You''re not already in danger?"


    "I feel like you''re tightrope walking every day."


    Qiu Tu chuckled bitterly at her words. If there were other choices, who would want to live in constant peril!


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s predicament, Tang Feifei fell silent for a moment, then suddenly stood up. She walked with her long, sleek, perfectly straight legs to a safe in the corner of the living room.


    She entered the password, opened the safe door, and Tang Feifei bent over, her butt sticking out as she rummaged inside.


    Qiu Tu looked over with a face full of surprise, then awkwardly shifted his gaze away.


    That woman! She wasn''t wearing any panties!


    So in his line of sight, everything was fully revealed!


    Soon, Tang Feifei closed the safe. She held a small white paper figure in her hand as she came over to Qiu Tu.


    Striding over with her long legs, Tang Feifei approached Qiu Tu and sat down on his lap, then handed the small paper figure to him.


    "This is called ''Trigger Paper Figure,'' a defensive type of Cataclysmic treasure," she said.


    "Its function is to automatically trigger when you''re attacked, forming a protective layer over your body," she continued.


    "This defensive layer can withstand attacks from high-caliber firearms and last for over 30 seconds," she explained.


    "Enough time for you to escape if you''re in danger...." she added.


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei mentioned, "However, this is a life-saving item reserved for department heads and above."


    "I''m lending it to you for now," she said.


    "If it doesn''t trigger, you can return it to me later," she stated.


    "If it does trigger... then you''ll slowly repay me with your body," she teased.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu paused and replied, "Is this thing that expensive? My body isn''t cheap."


    Tang Feifei''s mouth curved into a smile at Qiu Tu''s jest; her eyes half-closed as she looked at him, like a leopardess eyeing her prey, "You really have no shame," she remarked.


    "Tell me, how much do you charge per session?" she asked provocatively.


    Qiu Tu cleared his throat, "No matter the cost, could you remove your hand first? It seems you''re grabbing my ''brother.''"


    Sitting on Qiu Tu''s lap, Tang Feifei did not show the slightest embarrassment upon hearing his words. On the contrary, her eyes flickered with a dangerous glint, "What? Thinking of backing out?" she challenged.


    Qiu Tu hastily shook his head, "No, that''s not it. It''s just... I remember you said that if I stayed to keep you company, you''d grant me two requests?"


    "Does that offer still stand?" he inquired.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei slowly lost her smile, looking at him with a chilly gaze, as if she anticipated what was coming, "Of course."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Then my first request is... you''re not allowed to touch me today."


    For some reason, at that moment, Tang Feifei suddenly lost all interest.


    She really enjoyed the thrill of the hunt, the delight in teasing her prey, or playing with it.


    But when the prey consistently used little tricks to escape her pursuit, it just didn''t seem fun to her anymore.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei looked deeply at Qiu Tu, then slowly stood up from his lap.


    She had a magnanimous nature; she didn''t fly into a rage or take back the Cataclysmic treasure she had just given Qiu Tu. Instead, she turned her back to him, picked up a square glass, and downed it in one go!


    "You can go now," she said after finishing her drink.


    After placing the glass down, Tang Feifei coldly dropped these words and turned towards the bedroom.


    But then, at that moment,


    suddenly, a robust body lunged at her from behind!


    Caught off guard by the attack in her own room, and slightly disoriented from the alcohol, Tang Feifei couldn''t dodge in time and was tackled to the ground!


    Her reflex was to struggle, but just then, Qiu Tu suddenly bit her ear and said in his deep, husky voice, "Bureau Chief, my second request is... you''re not allowed to resist!"


    In that instant, Tang Feifei''s body stiffened. She felt a strange sensation she had never experienced before!


    It was an entirely new feeling from the inside out!


    -----


    Still going for the big update, haha! First 2 chapters, 7k words, third chapter to update around 19:00! Seeking Monthly Ticket! Seeking subscriptions!

 Chapter 134 A Day and Night with Tang Feifei (Subscribe, please!)

    She couldn''t quite understand what that feeling was.But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off the towel she was wearing, and loomed over her! S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time, Tang Feifei once again felt what set Qiu Tu and Liu Fu apart from the rest....


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing like a liberated serf!


    But... she was, after all, a woman of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, throughout the day and night, she really never initiated contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She was just secretly exerting herself!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew, to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he didn''t give her much chance to rest!


    And so, late into the night, the two finally fell asleep in each other''s arms, and by that time, the 200-plus square meter resting room, in every bedroom, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was dozing off in his drowsy state, Qiu Tu also silently marveled in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to a Changer and gained incredible enhancements to his body, plus, if he hadn''t forbidden Tang Feifei from taking charge...


    He estimated... after this ordeal, his back would''ve declared its retirement....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, along with the first rays of morning sunshine.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from his deep sleep.


    His first instinct was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt a sore ache in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu took a sharp breath, then came to his senses amid the soreness, examined his arms, and only then did he belatedly remember the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking about his hard work from the previous day, laboring to the point where he could only bury his head and toil, thinking about Tang Feifei, who was almost torn apart by the ordeal, he silently lit a candle for his back....


    Feeling that his back might be of no use anymore.


    Thinking this, he shifted his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot up to his crown.


    ''Forget it, let''s light another candle for Yue Kua as well, probably wrecked too....''


    Silent in his reflections on the intensity of the previous day''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached beside him, only to find that the place was already empty, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had long known their encounter was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no merit, there''s still hard work, right?''


    ''That''s quite ungrateful!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot, bare-legged, naked, walked over carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, her body''s curvature was enchanting, seemingly containing an endless explosive power and resilience.


    Her walk had a rhythm that was hard to describe, like a panther moving silently and swiftly through the jungle, every step full of strength and rhythm.


    When she arrived at Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to set down the medicine, then said indifferently, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    This scene felt familiar, this statement was also oddly phrased.


    But since the [Crisis Countdown] did not pop up, Qiu Tu knew that Tang Feifei had no intention of harming him.


    So he picked up the bowl of medicine, tilted his head back, and downed it in one gulp.


    As the potion slid down his throat, Qiu Tu felt a wave of coolness wandering through his arms, back, and thighs; the soreness seemed to be gradually fading away.


    Qiu Tu raised his arm and straightened his back in amazement, and to his surprise, they were neither sore nor painful anymore.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s reaction, Tang Feifei smiled slightly, "Why were you so vigorous last night?"


    "Even I felt sore all over when I got up this morning and had to drink this Cataclysmic Potion for recovery."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu coughed, and with a serious expression, said, "I, like the Bureau Chief, am true to my word."


    "The Bureau Chief resisted the urge to fight back and didn''t touch me during the ferocity of last night. Since I said I would stay with you for a night, I would certainly stay the whole night!"


    Hearing this, Tang Feifei paused for a moment, half-squinting her eyes, smiling ambiguously as she glanced at Qiu Tu. But she didn''t say anything further.


    However, from the unintentional charm she exuded, Qiu Tu could still sense a slight change in the way this woman in front of him related to him and her attitude toward him....?


    Just as Qiu Tu was trying to figure out Tang Feifei''s change, Tang Feifei slowly stood up. She walked over to the wardrobe, took out a new binding cloth, and as she began to bind her chest, she said to Qiu Tu in a detached tone, "It''s already 9 o''clock."


    "You might be seen if you leave through the main entrance."


    "I''ll take you through the safe passage in a while."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "A safe passage? There''s a safe passage in the office?"


    Having finished binding her chest, Tang Feifei started getting dressed as she looked down and explained, "Of course."


    Explore more adventures at empire


    "The Planning Area isn''t like the Sanctuary; it doesn''t have all kinds of defensive facilities and experts."


    "Therefore, many cities could face powerful Cataclysmic Creatures or attacks by Anti-government Armed Forces on major power institutions."


    "That''s why high-level offices often have a direct-to-ground-floor safe passage as emergency insurance."


    "That shouldn''t be hard to understand, right?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu blinked and suddenly seemed pensive....


    ''Emergency passage....''


    ''Insurance....''


    Thinking of what Tang Feifei said about all the high-levels having such insurance, and recalling how he had also looked for insurance before backstabbing Yan Chen, he suddenly had an epiphany....


    He seemed to have guessed why Old Master Qin was so composed at the Security Department!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu leapt up from the bed with an excited face and hugged Tang Feifei, kissing her cheek, "Bureau Chief! You truly are my lucky star! I''ve got it! I''ve got it!"


    Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu somewhat dumbfounded, her face reddening slightly, but she still maintained her Bureau Chief''s posture, patting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "Alright, we''re short on time."


    Realizing that now was not the time for celebration, Qiu Tu quickly got dressed, putting on his uniform. Then he followed Tang Feifei to the safe passage.


    The so-called safe passage was actually a tube wide as a bucket. Sliding down the tube would take you directly to a hidden area on the ground floor.


    This area was concealed within the partition between the outer and inner walls of the first floor, accessible through a hidden door that perfectly matched the exterior wall.


    And around that hidden door, they''d planted holly of human height, adding to the concealment.


    Following Tang Feifei''s instructions, Qiu Tu left the Investigation Bureau''s office building through the safe passage, and then... took a walk around the office building before sneaking back in.


    Upon returning to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu didn''t delay and went straight to the 9th floor.


    Since it was a workday, nearly all the members of the investigation team had arrived on the 9th floor.


    Even Wang Xi, who was always out "working," the slacker expert Song Qing, and... Liu Fuping, who Qiu Tu had cheated on, had all come.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, the agents on the scene immediately stood up and greeted him, "Chief!" "Hello, Chief!" "Good morning, Chief!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and looked around at them, then opened with a promise, "You''ve all worked hard. Once we finish this case, we''ll take a break!"


    After speaking, he called out a few names, "Big Biao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu... You guys come out with me."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t call her name, Liu Fuping pondered for a moment and quickly sashayed forward, volunteering herself, "Chief~ take me with you too."


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, quickly considered the matter. Today''s affair wasn''t sensitive, and Liu Fuping likely wouldn''t mess things up, so he nodded in agreement.


    With Tang Feifei''s "Trigger Paper Figure" at his disposal, Qiu Tu was no longer worried about those attacks from the darkness.


    So, after assembling his team, they left the Investigation Bureau en masse, ready to make an arrest!


    Just now in Tang Feifei''s lounge, Qiu Tu had finally realized why Old Master Qin remained so confident in the face of the Security Department''s interrogation.


    The reason was simple; he truly had a backup plan, or rather... insurance.


    Why could "Immortality" only have one body?


    Why couldn''t it involve dividing the soul into two, or controlling two bodies at the same time?


    With this, all of Old Master Qin''s bizarre behaviors had their answers.


    The reason he kept denying the charges wasn''t that he thought he could escape responsibility but was buying time for his "insurance"!


    He was allowing his "insurance" to escape smoothly or move critical data and assets!


    It was precisely this layer of insurance that made Old Master Qin so calm in the face of such dire straits! Because... he wasn''t afraid of dying!


    With this realization, Qiu Tu felt that all the mysteries could be explained.


    So what he was going to do today was to extinguish Old Master Qin''s last hope!


    -----


    PS: This chapter was blocked, and after being cut many times, it was finally released..


    We''ll still go for the 10,000-word update! First two chapters are 7k words, and the third chapter will update around 19:00! Asking for Monthly Tickets! For subscriptions!

 Chapter 135 Liu Fuping: It Seems Ive Been Cuckolded? (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    ```thinking this way, qiu tu took his most loyal confidants and left the investigation bureau.


    after he departed, the investigation team''s office gradually became noisy again.


    the huge upheaval that happened over the weekend had already started spreading among the middle and lower tiers of xinjie city these last two days.


    so, everyone knew that during the weekend, there was a massive power shuffle among the upper echelons of xinjie city, and the key figures were qiu tu and the security department.


    as the representative figure of the political department, qiu tu was the first to light the fuse of this huge bomb, which was then blown sky-high by the security department!


    they not only arrested 1 committee member, 2 directors (including qin heng), 5 deputy directors, 26 division heads and deputy division heads but also brought down one of the biggest local snakes in xinjie city: the qin family!


    the ordinary investigators didn''t know anything about factions or who belonged to whom. they just knew qiu tu''s move was incredibly cool! s~ea??h the n?vel_fire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    thus, even the normally overtime-hating slacker, song qing, who missed this major event, felt extremely regretful.


    she lay on the table, venting weakly to her colleague wang xi beside her, "ah. if i had known, i wouldn''t have told the director that i hate working overtime."


    "they arrested so many division heads and directors! they even arrested our own director qin from the investigation bureau!"


    at this point, song qing''s eyes gleamed, "if i could have assisted on the side, or personally slapped the handcuffs on them, that would''ve been so satisfying!"


    "then, even when having afternoon tea with my friends, i''d have something to boast about!"


    having said that, song qing''s expression turned to dejection, "but...it''s all because i told the director we didn''t want to work overtime that he didn''t call us."


    she sighed and collapsed onto the desk again, "it''s all my fault, all my fault...."


    meanwhile, the wang xi sitting beside her yawned and listlessly responded, "are you sure we weren''t called for this operation because you told the director you didn''t want to work overtime?"


    "why do i feel it''s because the director doesn''t trust us?"


    with that said, he counted, "you see, everyone who took part in the operation over the weekend were either the director''s former subordinates or old friends."


    "people like cao dabiao, chen feng, zhu huoyan, those were all people the director has used many times."


    "but us...whether it''s you, me, or sister liu who has only worked on cases with him, we''re just common subordinates."


    "it stands to reason that he doesn''t trust us, and it''s normal not to call us for an operation, right?"


    today, wang xi was clearly gloomy in both mood and appearance. his dark circles were heavy, as if he indulged in excesses.


    if one observed carefully, they could see an eerie light in the depths of his eyes...


    but song qing was not a detailed person, so she didn''t notice the anomaly in wang xi. all her thoughts were still on why qiu tu didn''t take them along for the mission!


    flushed with contention, she argued, "impossible! the chief is so nice, he must have been sparing us."


    "and considering the ambiguous relationship between the chief and sister liu, even if he doesn''t trust us, he should trust sister liu!"


    "then why didn''t he call sister liu either?"


    "so, your reason doesn''t hold up at all!"


    hearing song qing''s words, wang xi hesitated for a moment. he intended to object, but he also felt there was some truth in what she said.


    although qiu tu and liu fuping always thought they were hiding their relationship well, anyone who often saw them together could sense something was off¡ªtheir eyes were practically spinning yarn!


    as members of the interrogation section''s [gossip squad], wang xi and song qing had long noticed the ''affair'' between the two.


    moreover, they would occasionally discuss in private: if there were no outsiders present, would qiu tu and liu fuping have already given into their passions and taken things further?


    so with these thoughts, wang xi suddenly agreed with song qing''s perspective, nodding, "you''re making sense."


    "it''s normal for him not to call us, but it''s indeed strange not to call sister liu."


    song qing lifted her head slightly, wearing an "i was right after all" expression.


    seeing song qing''s cute demeanor, wang xi was momentarily dazed, the faint light in his eyes flickering gently.


    then he changed the subject tentatively, "by the way, song qing. you said...you and your friends often have afternoon tea, right?"


    "where do you usually go for it?"


    the darkness was slowly spreading, but song qing seemed utterly unaware....


    ....


    meanwhile, qiu tu was leading his confidants on their way to the target.


    since it was an arrest operation, several confidants drove the prison van, with only liu fuping sitting in the passenger seat beside qiu tu.


    qiu tu didn''t mind having a beautiful woman accompany him while driving, so he agreed to her sitting there.


    as he drove, qiu tu stretched a hand toward liu fuping, who, seeing his gesture, naturally angled her legs towards him.


    the beauty of a married woman lies in her understanding of your mission, thoughts, and needs, and her willingness to cooperate.


    qiu tu smiled as he placed his hand on top, touching and feeling. plump and tender, utterly different from tang feifei''s.


    tang feifei was full of elasticity and strength, a beauty filled with vitality.


    he liked both, feeling that each had its own merits. if he could have them both together and slowly compare them, that would be great....


    and while qiu tu shamelessly indulged in these thoughts, liu fuping quietly sighed beside him.


    "sigh...."


    qiu tu glanced at her but ignored her.


    liu fuping continued to sigh.


    ```


    qiu tu continued to ignore her.


    finally, on the third time qiu tu ignored her, liu fuping could no longer restrain herself.


    she took the initiative to speak. "qiu tu, it seems that director tang might be having an affair."


    qiu tu was stunned for a moment, then looked at her strangely and asked, "having an affair? what kind of affair?"


    liu fuping said, "i needed to see her yesterday, but i couldn''t find her at her villa, her office, or emerald fort." enjoy new tales from empire


    "i kept calling her, but she didn''t answer."


    "it wasn''t until this morning that she finally sent me a text, saying she didn''t check her phone yesterday and was very busy."


    "i called her, but she was very cold to me on the phone. she hung up after just a couple of sentences."


    speaking of this, liu fuping looked sad, "do you think she has someone else now?"


    at these words, qiu tu''s face was also filled with surprise.


    while driving, he said, "that can''t be. i don''t think director tang is that kind of person."


    "don''t overthink it."


    having said this, qiu tu changed his tone, "even if she did have an affair, actually, it''s not a problem. i''ll tell you what to do..."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, liu fuping looked at him curiously, "what should i do?"


    qiu tu glanced at her, "you have an affair too! take your revenge fiercely! you don''t need to find someone else¡ªtake me."


    "i''m not only good in action but also tight-lipped, definitely won''t tell her."


    "giggle giggle giggle." hearing qiu tu''s flippant words, liu fuping was tickled and shook with laughter.


    she gave qiu tu a disdainful look, "i knew you wouldn''t say anything nice."


    after saying that, she suddenly changed her tone and asked stealthily, "by the way, what were you doing after seeing the minister yesterday? "


    "it felt like i didn''t see you around all day."


    qiu tu snorted, saying nonchalantly, "where else could i go? i was with the bureau chief."


    "you know how difficult our bureau chief is to please. i worked hard the entire day just to make ta satisfied."


    liu fuping, well-informed, knew about qiu tu''s dutiful actions in yan chen''s office the day before. hearing his words, she assumed qiu tu had gone to do errands for yan chen yesterday as well.


    therefore, she nodded slightly, leaning her head against the car window, eyes brimming with suspicion,


    ''qiu tu seemed very natural. so it''s not him...?''


    ''then who could it be...?''


    while driving, qiu tu cast a knowing glance at her, the corners of his mouth curving up slightly.


    the highest art of lying is to tell all truths, but make the other person wrongly interpret them...


    ...


    so, a group of people in two cars soon arrived at a small villa belonging to old master qin''s youngest son in xinjie city.


    before preparing to apprehend old master qin, this "insurance," qiu tu went over the available intelligence on this "insurance" in detail.


    qin laowu, named qin cheng, was ostensibly the youngest son of the qin family, born to old master qin''s second wife.


    because he was a late child, and his mother had died in a difficult childbirth, old master qin cherished this son immensely.


    he would give his son anything he wanted.


    this had caused qin cheng to grow up unrestrained, arrogant, and domineering, bullying both men and women.


    it was said that qin cheng understood the difference between men and women at a very young age, not only asking his father for beautiful maids but also frequently "insulting" them.


    even though he wasn''t fully developed at the time, he could still make these beautiful maids do some wicked things.


    later, as he grew taller and stronger, qin cheng started frequenting the various bars and nightclubs owned by the qin family, hunting and pursuing beauty.


    for this... the qin family had to clean up his messes countless times.


    even later, while he somewhat reined in his behavior, he still didn''t engage in proper businesses, instead lingering in pleasure quarters or flirting and pursuing beautiful women.


    thus, he gradually earned the nickname "profligate son."


    in summary, this was the story of a mentally twisted scion spoiled rotten by familial indulgence.


    initially, qiu tu didn''t pay much attention to him. after all, in times of chaos, there are all kinds of deviants, and what''s one more small deviant obsessed with sexual matters since childhood?


    but this morning, when he guessed that old master qin was likely not "just one person," but could possibly be "multiple people," or even capable of entering the bodies of many people simultaneously,


    qiu tu knew that maybe... qin laowu was old master qin''s "insurance."


    and qin laowu''s licentious life these years could very well be... the conduit for that ''god'' whom old master qin worshipped...


    thinking this, after recalling the intelligence, qiu tu slowly stopped the car. his gaze pierced through the car window, profoundly observing the small villa in the distance...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    this chapter was blocked again, seems to have been targeted. it''s best if everyone reads every day.


    three chapters with ten thousand words settled today, continuing with the daily ten thousand tonight!


    requesting monthly tickets, requesting subscriptions! my thanks!

 Chapter 136 Insane Extortion! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    perhaps it was qiu tu''s intensely deep gaze that aroused liu fuping''s curiosity, so she followed his line of sight and looked at the villa.her sole reason for following qiu tu today wasn''t any ulterior motive; she was simply upset about tang feifei''s suspected affair and wanted to chat more with qiu tu to cheer herself up.


    so... she had no idea why qiu tu was here or what he intended to do.


    after such a glance, liu fuping flicked her hair and gently caressed qiu tu''s face with the tips, seductively asking, "commander, who is our target today?"


    it must be said that among all the women qiu tu knew, liu fuping was the best at flirting.


    not to mention shen lingshuang and tang feifei, who had no clue about seduction, even qin shuman was slightly inferior.


    with just a strand of hair, she could play up a charm.


    qiu tu felt an itchy tingling on his face that spread all the way down to his waist.


    he gently swatted liu fuping''s hand away, shot her a glare, and then took out his communicator to call cao dabiao in another car.


    "big biao, have someone block all the exits of the villa, then take control of it," he instructed.


    "yes!" cao dabiao''s acknowledgment came from the communicator.


    after hanging up, qiu tu tilted his head and watched through the car window as cao dabiao and the others set out to execute their plan.


    although cao dabiao was a sly old fox with various flaws, small and large, his abilities were commendable. otherwise, he wouldn''t have made it to be a first level detective.


    under his arrangement, soon, qiu tu''s confidants were positioned all around, armed and ready, blocking the various entrances to qin cheng''s small villa. s~ea??h the n??elfir§×.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    as for cao dabiao himself, he led chen feng, ding xiaoliu, and zhu huoyan to the villa''s doorstep with a flamboyant swagger and knocked.


    possibly because the action was too monotonous, liu fuping tilted her head and glanced around, then adjusted the rearview mirror on top of her head before taking out a somewhat rudimentary lipstick to touch up her makeup.


    after applying the lipstick, liu fuping pursed her lips with a "pop pop" and checked her reflection. experience exclusive tales on empire


    once she confirmed her makeup was flawless, she reached into the wide neckline of her clothing to adjust her bra straps and pushed her arms together to make her cleavage appear even more fair and profound...


    after all these preparations, liu fuping checked her makeup and outfit in the mirror again. the more she looked, the more enchanting she appeared¡ªsimply perfect!


    ''i don''t believe tang feifei won''t be utterly charmed!'' she thought, feeling quite elated.


    whether tang feifei would be charmed or not, qiu tu wasn''t sure, but liu fuping''s series of actions definitely made his blood run hot.


    the more he observed liu fuping, the more she seemed ingrained with allure, each gesture seeming to tantalize a man''s heartstrings.


    if it weren''t for the critical mission he was on, he''d surely be tempted to strip off her clothes, pry open her bra, and show her what it meant to be thoroughly ravished day and night!


    "what''s the matter?" perhaps noticing qiu tu''s unusual gaze, liu fuping tilted her head and curiously inquired.


    then she flashed a smile at qiu tu, showing off her attire and makeup for the day, "do i look good?"


    qiu tu:.....


    damn it.


    women really do distract from work!


    with that thought, qiu tu reached over and boldly groped liu fuping''s chest!


    after feeling the smooth, soft sensation, qiu tu shook his head amidst liu fuping''s exclamation, "get out of the car! move!"


    having said that, he withdrew his hand without any reluctance and stepped out of the car with long strides.


    liu fuping, embarrassed and annoyed, clutched her chest, shot a glare at qiu tu''s retreating figure, and then elegantly followed him out of the car.


    the two arrived at the wide-open door of the villa; by then, cao dabiao had already secured the situation inside.


    a young man who looked a lot like qin heng was sitting on the couch with his hands over his head, his neck shrinking and his body curled up.


    beside him were three attractive young ladies with nice figures, dressed in glittering evening dresses.


    they wore plunging necklines, showing off ample success in their careers, also revealing fair legs that suggested less than respectable intentions at a glance.


    they were now being held at gunpoint by cao dabiao, huddled next to qin cheng, trembling and not daring to move a muscle.


    seeing this, qiu tu motioned to liu fuping with a shake of his head.


    understanding the gesture, liu fuping walked over, pulled each of them up, and escorted them out of the villa.


    indeed, although liu fuping was flirtatious and enchanting in front of qiu tu, she was ruthless when it came to interrogation and dealing with suspects. a girl barely delayed a step before liu fuping kicked her, warning her not to try any tricks.


    watching the women leave, qiu tu waved his hand at cao dabiao. cao dabiao and the others promptly left the villa''s living room, starting to stand guard outside.


    now that the living room held only himself and qin cheng, qiu tu''s face broke into a smile.


    he went over, hooked his arm around qin cheng''s neck, and said as if they were old pals, "fifth master qin?"


    qin cheng didn''t seem to have the rumored arrogance and defiance. hearing qiu tu''s words, he responded timidly and with his head lowered, "i am the qin family''s fifth, qin cheng."


    at this, qiu tu uttered an "oh," nodded and said, "right, qin cheng!"


    then, as if remembering something, he added, "sorry, got a bit busy and forgot. happy birthday, huh."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, a flicker of bewilderment crossed qin cheng''s face.

 Chapter 136 Insane Extortion! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    he first gave an awkward smile, then said, "um, share the joy, share the joy."upon hearing this, qiu tu glanced at him with a surprised look and said, "share what joy? today is my birthday."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, qin cheng obviously paused for a second before then responding with an embarrassed laugh, "ah? is it? well then, happy birthday, chief qiu."


    qiu tu caught every single reaction of qin cheng and formulated some conjecture in his mind, yet he continued to act without showing his thoughts, "thank you, thank you. so...."


    qiu tu stretched out his hand, "do you have any birthday presents for me?"


    qin cheng, upon hearing this, gave qiu tu a look. his eyes, slightly blurred from debauchery, seemed sharp as if trying to see through qiu tu''s thoughts...


    but qiu tu just smiled at him, as if he really was just there to extort something.


    seeing this, qin cheng gave a couple of awkward laughs and tentatively said, "chief qiu, if i give you money, can i leave then?"


    qiu tu looked at him seriously, "fifth master, this i must correct you on."


    "first, it''s not giving money, it''s presenting a birthday gift. these two are completely different concepts."


    "second, this is your home. why would you want to leave?"


    "clearly, it should be us who ought to leave."


    qiu tu''s words seemed to reassure qin cheng who quickly responded, "right, right, right, that''s what i meant."


    after saying that, he added, "then i will go and fetch chief qiu''s birthday present now." find more to read at empire


    upon hearing this, qiu tu called towards the doorway, "chen feng!"


    shortly after, chen feng''s figure appeared at the door, responding starkly, "present!"


    qiu tu nodded towards him, "follow qin wuyi to retrieve my birthday present."


    chen feng, "yes!"


    as he watched the two of them ascend to the second floor of the villa, qiu tu''s face, which had been smiling the whole time, slowly became expressionless.


    the reason he first inquired about qin cheng''s birthday and then asked for a present was, in fact, all to test him.


    although he suspected that old master qin had not only taken over one son''s body all those years ago, it was, after all, just a suspicion.


    he couldn''t just arrest qin cheng based on mere suspicion, nor could he use his once-a-day "cataclysmic ability" to interrogate on the strength of such doubt.


    therefore, he had to first determine through probing whether qin cheng was a likely suspect.


    luckily... his own arrival might have been a bit sudden, not giving qin cheng much time to prepare.


    so, with just two simple tests, qiu tu could almost confirm that the teenager before him was very likely old master qin himself...


    thinking this way, he couldn''t help but contemplate how to deal with this old fellow who had single-handedly founded the qin family...


    ...


    meanwhile.


    at the same time that qiu tu and qin cheng were engaging in their standoff.


    several hundred meters away from qin cheng''s small villa on the street, a shadow slipped through the shadows of the street like a phantom, stirring up whirlwinds in its wake.


    quickly following the traces of qiu tu''s vehicle, it arrived at the outskirts of qin cheng''s villa.


    upon recognizing the environment, the shadow was momentarily stunned.


    ''why is it old qin''s villa?''


    ''could it be... the target has learned of old qin''s identity and is preparing to make a move?''


    with that thought, the shadow grew noticeably more anxious.


    like a monkey, with a few leaps, it reached the crown of a large tree.


    it stood lightly on a thin branch as if without weight, looking out over the situation near the villa.


    as it ceased moving, the leaves seemed to integrate with its body, making it almost impossible for outsiders to see.


    before long, it had a clear understanding of the immediate vicinity of the villa.


    there were nine investigators outside, eight men and one woman.


    the eight male investigators were positioned in pairs on all four sides of the villa.


    the lone female investigator was reprimanding three scantily dressed women on the lawn while taking notes.


    ''this is a bit tricky....''


    the shadow silently analyzed the situation, "an investigation bureau squad probably consists of 10-12 people. so there should still be 2-4 people inside the house."


    "although it''s a bit dangerous... i can give it a try."


    thinking this, the shadow, carrying an old-fashioned rifle, silently jumped down from the tree and, once again stepping into the shadows, turned into a gust of wind, beginning to infiltrate the villa...


    .....


    meanwhile.


    a few kilometers away from qin cheng''s villa, a transport truck was also making its way toward qin cheng''s villa.


    inside the cargo compartment of the truck were a dozen or so young men holding guns, excitedly gesturing to each other.


    they wore uniform black knitted balaclava hats and patchwork tactical vests that were old and worn, with a big red cross spray-painted on the chest, clearly members of the united front...


    among them, a young man standing in the center, was vigorously pep-talking everyone, "this time, it''s a mission arranged by the higher-ups! let us eliminate a person who poses a significant threat to the organization!"


    "he not only killed two of our members but also disrupted the organization''s various plans!"


    "the higher-ups have promised that if we successfully kill him, we can receive a lot of rewards! leave this broken planning district and move to the [holy district]!"


    "good!" hearing the leader''s enticing promises, the dozen or so young men present were all greatly inspired!


    they waved their guns, as if they could see that brilliant and splendid future....


    ...


    at the same time, inside the villa.


    qin cheng was clearly still harboring a sliver of hope for qiu tu.


    so, when qiu tu asked him for a birthday gift, he didn''t play any tricks but went upstairs to the safe to retrieve a small golden horse and brought it down holding it in both hands.


    after placing the small golden horse in front of qiu tu, qin cheng said with a forced smile, "chief qiu, this is a small golden horse, i wish you a happy birthday and may you achieve immediate success!"


    hearing qin cheng''s incongruous blessing, qiu tu smiled and picked up the small golden horse to admire it.


    one had to admit, it was exquisitely crafted and hefty. too bad it was... obviously not something a young person would like.


    especially for a teenager...


    thinking this, qiu tu laughed and placed the golden horse on the table, then pretending to be greedy, said, "fifth master, who gives just one gift in a household?!"


    "haven''t you heard that good things come in pairs?"


    "when giving gifts, it''s always done in doubles!"


    seeing qiu tu''s appetite growing, qin cheng''s expression stiffened slightly.


    but, given the situation was stronger than him, after hesitating for a moment, he still forced a smile and said, "you make a good point, a very good point. i''ll go get another one."


    after saying that, he went upstairs again, this time with chen feng.


    qiu tu watched qin cheng''s retreating figure with an indifferent gaze and shook his head slightly.


    it seemed that old master qin had lately been so exhausted by the interrogations of the security department that he had lost his coolness and basic judgment.


    a teenager like him, at an age full of hot blood, spoiled and doted on by his family. how could he possibly remain this restrained in the face of constant pressure? that was practically an inadvertent confession.


    with these thoughts, soon after, qin cheng returned with another small golden horse to the living room on the first floor of the villa. s~ea??h the novel(f~)ire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    watching qin cheng fawning like a sycophant and bursting with gold coins, qiu tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    he weighed the two golden horses in his hands, they should be about 600 grams. it was not that his hands were accurate, but rather... the weight was marked underneath the horses.


    a small goldfish is roughly 31 grams of gold, equivalent to 200 silver yuan.


    and these two golden horses amounted to 20 small goldfish. nearly 4000 silver yuan, roughly equivalent to the purchasing power of 3.2 million rmb.


    on the surface, qiu tu remained expressionless, but inside he clicked his tongue in admiration.


    it was just like old master qin to be so wealthy. a casual "greeting gift" was almost worth as much as the cash master qin si carried with him when he fled.


    while thinking this, qiu tu played with the two golden horses as if he couldn''t put them down.


    after fidgeting with them for a while, qiu tu put down the two small golden horses and looked at qin cheng again, with a leg propped up, smiling and saying, "not enough."


    at that moment, qin cheng''s entire face changed.


    -----


    today, there will still be three updates of ten thousand words, guys. as per the old rules, first two updates, and the third will be around 19:00. please subscribe, and ask for monthly tickets!

 Chapter 137 Exposing Old Master Qins Identity (10,000-word plea for subscription!)

    clearly, qin heng had also realized that qiu tu''s appetite was like a bottomless pit.if things went on like this, his entire fortune wouldn''t be enough to fill qiu tu''s "greed".


    therefore, knowing that a soft approach wouldn''t work, qin cheng immediately switched tactics.


    he "whooshed" to his feet and then pointed at qiu tu and cursed, "you son of a bitch! i''ll fucking..."


    he had barely started speaking when qiu tu directly reached for the gun at his waist and "swoosh!", pressed it against his forehead.


    the muzzle of the ice spear caused qin cheng to swallow back the rest of his words instantly.


    he looked at qiu tu with a furious expression, feeling as if he had truly seen a ghost!


    was this deputy chief really so lawless!?


    storming into a person''s home with investigators and starting to extort!?


    if extortion failed, just draw a gun and shoot!


    was there no law left!?


    this was the planning area under the control of the sanctuary! qin cheng remembered that even when xinjie city was still a disaster zone, the public security had never been so outrageous!


    although he was cursing qiu tu furiously in his heart... qin cheng really didn''t dare to gamble with qiu tu. after all, during this period, he had come to understand a bit about qiu tu''s "madness".


    who knew whether qiu tu wasn''t just bluffing, but actually planning to end his life!


    thinking this, qin cheng''s face once again wore a forced smile, "chief qiu, why can''t you take a joke?"


    "just now, i was just trying to perform a little joke for you."


    upon hearing this, qiu tu laughed, "ha ha," and patted qin cheng''s face with the gun, "fifth master, you indeed look like a joke."


    "but still... i actually prefer the unruly look you had just now." read new adventures at empire


    qin cheng quickly piled on an even thicker smile, "chief qiu is joking. how could i possibly act unruly in front of chief qiu!"


    after saying that, he hastily added, "right, chief qiu, weren''t you dissatisfied with the birthday gift just now?"


    "in addition to these two golden horses, how about i give you 10 more little goldfish, what do you think?"


    qiu tu smiled, "20."


    a hesitant expression flickered across qin cheng''s face, but in the end, he nodded, "deal!"


    qiu tu, "40."


    just as qin cheng was extending his hand to shake with qiu tu: ??


    "pfft."


    at the entrance, a suppressed laugh rang out. it was liu fuping who had just finished taking notes and returned to the villa.


    perhaps because she remembered how qiu tu had raised the price with her a few days ago, she laughed so hard that her whole body shook, causing waves to surge.


    seeing this, qiu tu glanced at her and paid no mind to the woman shirking her duties.


    meanwhile, qin cheng''s forehead was dotted with sweat, but faced with the dark muzzle of the gun, he didn''t dare to wipe it away.


    so he took a few deep breaths, begging for mercy, "chief qiu, i really can''t come up with that many little goldfish."


    qiu tu, however, said indifferently, "then you go sell them."


    qiu tu took another look at qin cheng top to bottom and clicked his tongue, "i must say, fifth master, you do have some good looks."


    "kuku kuku..." liu fuping, standing at the doorway, couldn''t help but muffle her laughter, sounding like someone stifling their chuckles.


    this intensified the humiliation felt by qin cheng, making his face even uglier.


    he took a couple of deep breaths, ready to throw some tough words out again.


    but just then, qiu tu unexpectedly interrupted him, "enough, old master, you''re in your dozens and still putting on an act in front of a youngster like me, isn''t it tiring?"


    hearing qiu tu''s words, qin cheng''s pupils obviously shrunk sharply, and his body stiffened for a moment.


    but then, he pretended not to understand and looked at qiu tu, "chief qiu, what are you talking about? i don''t understand what you mean."


    qiu tu, however, looked at him expressionlessly and analyzed mercilessly, "after i exposed your identity, your pupils contracted slightly, you blinked three times in succession. lips pinched tight, your body involuntarily shook slightly."


    "this shows your inner nervousness and unease. you are on guard."


    "heh heh," qin cheng chuckled dryly, "agent qiu, i don''t understand what you''re talking about."


    "i am me, not some old master."


    as he said this, he looked seriously at qiu tu, "today, you forced your way into my house, drove away my... erm, friends. you took out a gun and threatened me, asking for bribes."


    "all of this i will record and then lodge a complaint with the investigation bureau, the municipal committee!"


    "even if the qin family is currently facing difficulties... there are so many families in xinjie city watching."


    "in the establishment of xinjie city, the qin family has also worked hard for the sanctuary, has its merits."


    "if our family has indeed made a mistake, we will accept any punishment from the sanctuary."


    "but to treat an unrelated family member like me with such unfairness, i believe that the major families of xinjie city will not just stand idly by and watch!"


    "at that time, i''ll be interested to see if the investigation bureau can protect you!"


    upon hearing this, qiu tu laughed, "while you were saying the first part, your gaze drifted to the left; your body slightly turned to another direction, reducing direct contact with me; your body movements drew back, subconsciously performing self-protection."


    "this means you''re lying,"


    "and while you were speaking the second half, your hand clenched slightly, your body tensed up, and your tone raised. it indicates that you''re trying to muster up some nerve, attempting to intimidate me,"


    "old master, you have way too many slips...shall we keep going?"


    hearing qiu tu''s questions, one after another made for an interrogation, "qin cheng" seemed to recall the fear he had been subjected to by the security department over the past couple of days...


    for the past two days, the non-stop interrogation by the security department had really worn him out, both mentally and physically. thus, in his "spare time," he had called over three girls, hoping to relax a bit.


    but who would have expected that before he could even start to unwind, the political department burst in, and to top it off, that damned qiu tu actually came to his house to interrogate him!


    if it had ended there, "qin cheng" might not have so easily thrown in the towel. after all, at worst, he would just be dealing with two interrogations at the same time.


    but...as the kingpin who single-handedly brought the qin family into the top three in xinjie city, even though old master qin might not have had the highest level with the backing of family heritage and the anti-government armed forces, he did have an eye for reading people, gained from years of grappling in the jianghu.


    so, he was absolutely certain that qiu tu was not bluffing him. he truly knew his identity, his secrets.


    facing the young chief who single-handedly sparked a massive purge throughout xinjie city, old master qin knew that continuing to stubbornly resist was pointless.


    thinking this, he took a deep breath, gradually relaxed, and the hunched back due to obsequiousness slowly straightened.


    he finally stopped pretending and looked at qiu tu with eyes neither joyful nor sorrowful, asking, "how did you find out my identity?"


    after finishing talking, he paused to think, then confidently spoke to himself, "it was yong dong who spilled the beans, wasn''t it?"


    "he must have revealed my secret to that child, little ru. then you interrogated it out of her, right?"


    upon hearing this, qiu tu watched with great interest as qin family''s old master''s demeanor seemed to be that of a completely different person, feeling that things were finally getting interesting.


    however...even though he found it interesting, liu fuping and chen feng inside the room did not share the sentiment. they just felt like they couldn''t keep up with the unfolding events, as if their cpus were burning out...


    at first, they watched with composed and spectator-like expressions as qiu tu relentlessly pressured qin cheng, the last scion of the qin family.


    due to their trust in qiu tu, they didn''t believe that he had traveled this far solely to extort a rich second-generation facing a great disaster.


    thus, they were also waiting for qiu tu to show his hand, eager to discover what secrets qin cheng was hiding.


    but...when qiu tu called qin cheng "old master," they had already started to get confused.


    what old master? who is the old master?


    is this teenager in front of them the old master?


    at this point, their heads were wrapped in question marks.


    therefore, when qin cheng finally admitted that he was the "old master," the two of them were utterly dumbfounded.


    they felt like failing students in a math class, who, in the time it took to look down and pick something up, saw "1+1=2" turn into "goldbach''s conjecture" on the blackboard!


    they felt as though they hadn''t missed anything, and the "problem" remained the same, but the entire process and development were completely different!


    with this in mind, they rapidly replayed the conversation between qiu tu and qin cheng.


    both considered elites within the political department and quite capable, they pieced together the dialogue between qiu tu and old master qin as well as key names like "yong dong" and "little ru" that were mentioned...


    soon, a bold speculation began to take shape in their minds!


    ''is this teenager really old master qin, once a major figure in xinjie city?''


    ''what the hell is going on!'' they thought.


    with this, they immediately considered another question: how did their chief find out?!


    why was he looking for this supposedly resurrected old master?!


    with these thoughts, both felt as though their chief was shrouded in mystery!


    so, they eagerly perked up their ears, not daring to blink, afraid they might miss some critical information!


    meanwhile, facing old master qin''s question, qiu tu didn''t respond at all.


    he was the interrogator, not the criminal; he had no obligation to answer old master qin''s questions.


    instead, he simply started a new line of questioning, probing, "old master, how are you adapting to this new body of yours?" s~ea??h the n?vel(f)ire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "what''s it like to have two bodies?"


    ...


    at the same time.


    outside the villa.


    a shadow carrying an old rifle on his back and wearing goggles easily entered the villa''s garden along the side of the house.


    it seemed he had some kind of invisibility class cataclysmic ability, which is why the agents, even after scanning his hiding spot several times, seemed unable to see his figure.


    thus, utilizing various shadows and corners, the shadow successfully avoided the patrolling gaze of the eight agents and the three handcuffed young ladies'', infiltrating the villa...


    once inside the villa, his movements became even more cautious.


    moving along the shadow by the wall, he skilfully headed towards the living room.


    soon, he arrived at the entrance to the living room and saw cao dabiao and two other agents.


    -----


    today will still have three updates of ten thousand words each, starting with two updates, and the third one around 19:00. please subscribe and support with monthly tickets!

 Chapter 138 The Other Party Sent You a Party Invitation (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    at this moment, cao dabiao was at the living room entrance, keeping watch while chatting idly with ding xiaoliu and zhu huoyan.since there were several other teams of scouts on guard outside the villa, the three of them weren''t very vigilant.


    leaning against the wall, ding xiaoliu peeked through the crack of the door at the scene inside the living room and then naively asked, "brother biao, i just overheard something about today possibly being the boss''s birthday."


    "shouldn''t we also prepare a gift for him?"


    hearing ding xiaoliu''s words, cao dabiao slapped the back of his head and said in a low voice, "are you an idiot!"


    "the boss could be celebrating his birthday any of the 365 days in a year, just not today!"


    "when he says it''s his birthday, it''s clearly a ruse to fleece that qin wuyi!"


    "without finding a pretext, wouldn''t that be too embarrassing for him?"


    as he said this, cao dabiao leaned against the wall too, putting on the air of someone who had been around, and explained to ding xiaoliu, "let me tell you. the boss is the smart one here. this kind of thing, it happens in every city. if we don''t eat, others will."


    "forget about the qin family, even those lofty directors and committee members would be stripped clean of their wealth and family by everyone in xinjie city if they can''t survive this ordeal."


    "the juiciest benefits get eaten by those at the top, the broth and juices are taken by us, and even the scraps and leftovers are cleaned up by the neighbors or underground factions."


    "anyway... it''s a dog-eat-dog world. don''t think you''re above it all just because you were yesterday. if you fall today, countless others will want to eat your flesh, drink your blood, and suck your bones dry."


    after listening to cao dabiao, ding xiaoliu looked at him admiringly and said, "brother biao, you know so much."


    upon hearing this, cao dabiao smiled smugly and boasted, "i heard it from my uncle who''s a deputy staff in eastern city."


    "they established eastern city a year and a half before ours, and they''ve been through all kinds of bloody storms."


    "a lot of their experiences are very useful to us."


    continuing, cao dabiao lowered his voice and said, "according to my uncle, the first to third year after a city is founded is when the upper-middle classes go through the most frequent reshuffling."


    "many conflicts suppressed during the city''s early days start to erupt. the major families and powers are gradually adapting to the rules of the planning area and also start scheming to seize power and profit from the higher-ups from the sanctuary."


    "so, many forces and families could be wiped out, and many officials could be brought down. and this is when the real sifting begins!"


    "as long as you side with the right people in these two years, you will see significant development!"


    hearing cao dabiao''s words, ding xiaoliu suddenly said, "i see. no wonder i''ve recently heard that those big shots on longshan road seem..."


    while cao dabiao and ding xiaoliu were shooting the breeze, a shadow silently lurked not far from them, listening to their entire conversation.


    he wasn''t concerned with the latter analyses from cao dabiao''s uncle but focused on the first part of cao dabiao''s words.


    ''the target is extorting old qin?''


    ''this is good news. it seems old qin''s identity has not been exposed...''


    ''then i need to be extra careful when i make my move, to not expose old qin...''


    thinking this, he estimated the distance between cao dabiao''s group and the door to be only half a meter. his cataclysmic ability couldn''t guarantee not being exposed within this distance.


    fortunately, he was very familiar with the layout of the villa, so he glanced around the corridor and quietly made his way around the wall towards the other side of the living room...


    ...


    meanwhile, inside the villa''s living room, qiu tu and old master qin were continuing their tense standoff.


    inhabiting a body that was only in its teens, old master qin''s eyes were deep and restrained. aside from that, he showed no difference from a young man, whether in expression or vitality.


    when he heard qiu tu''s question, he smiled faintly and said, "this body is a clone of my own genes, of course, i feel perfectly comfortable in it."


    "as for how it feels... of course, it''s a sensation of youth i''ve never had before!"


    "my skin no longer has disgusting age spots or wrinkles; my teeth are no longer loose; my joints no longer ache when it''s rainy and damp! even... my manhood is brimming with energy every day!"


    as he spoke, he looked at qiu tu, his eyes filled with a naked desire that seemed ready to burst forth, "do you understand the feeling... of waking up every morning, hard awake?!"


    "do you understand the feeling of going through battle with several women and still being as spirited and energetic as ever?" sea??h th§× novel(f~)ire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "do you understand the sound of women begging for mercy and their words of adoration?!"


    qiu tu: ...


    he shook his head slightly, advising, "old master, there''s always a loss for every gain in this world. if you''ve acquired such ability, you must have lost much more."


    old master qin laughed heartily, "indeed! i''ve lost aging, embarrassment, and worries!"


    after saying this, old master qin looked at qiu tu seriously, and said earnestly, "qiu tu, you''re young now and won''t understand the despair one feels when one ages gradually and life nears its end..."


    "to keep living, to return to youth, i would give anything!"


    "that''s why i made a deal with ''god''."


    as he said this, he glanced at chen feng, who stood by his side, and liu fuping, who stood by qiu tu''s side, and spoke with a devout tone, "today, since you''ve become aware of ''god''s'' information, it means you''re fated with ''god''."


    "therefore, i can offer you a chance to bask in the ''divine light''!"


    "rest assured, just basking in the ''divine light'' doesn''t mean you have to worship ''god''!"


    "once you experience the joy within, you will willingly dedicate your loyalty to ''god''!"


    qiu tu: ....


    qiu tu felt like something was wrong with his ears, as if they could automatically translate certain phrases.


    basking in divine light? considering the path of ''god'' that old master qin worships¡­ isn''t that basically an invite to a "silver party"?!


    this is¡­ if one could receive such an invitation without needing to bask in the ''divine light,'' qiu tu would certainly run faster than anyone!


    after all, he was a man who would never gamble or dabble in drugs!


    but¡­ the thought of having to bask in the ''divine light'' made qiu tu apprehensive. explore more at empire


    who knows if there might be some problems with it?


    this was a world with supernatural powers, and moreover, these powers were of a bizarre nature. participating in such a "silver party," qiu tu genuinely worried that he would become a puppet to that ''god'' from this point forward!


    thinking along these lines, qiu tu didn''t dare let old master qin continue to control the pace of the conversation. he timely brought the pace of the conversation back under his control.


    he said disdainfully, "experience the joy within?"


    "i can experience plenty of joy without your ''god.''"


    "moreover, without your ''god,'' i can still hear the pleading cries and admiring words of women."


    "what? can your ''god'' give me the experience of being simultaneously in front and behind?"


    upon hearing qiu tu''s words, old master qin immediately showed an evil smile, "of course."


    "if you have two bodies, you can surely experience different sensations at the same time, can''t you?"


    hearing this, qiu tu feigned surprise and interest as old master qin had anticipated.


    then he inquired, "what about three bodies together? wouldn''t that be even more thrilling?"


    old master qin confidently said, "of course, that''s possible. as long as you are sufficiently devout to ''god,'' you can have three bodies at the same time!"


    qiu tu asked, "have you experienced it?"


    this time, old master qin obviously hesitated, but he still said with a smile, "of course!"


    seeing old master qin''s expression and hearing his words, a smile formed on qiu tu''s lips: key information obtained.


    in the exchange of questions and answers between qiu tu and old master qin just now, the most important wasn''t the dialogue itself, but the moment of hesitation from old master qin.


    that hint of hesitation was a clear sign of insincerity. so, qiu tu could be certain that he hadn''t tried having three bodies at once.


    and considering old master qin''s behavior today, as well as the reputation of qin cheng as a profligate son in xinjie city,


    if he truly had three bodies, he would definitely have tried it at least once to experience it.


    therefore, qiu tu could almost be sure that old master qin probably only had qin heng and qin cheng''s two bodies.


    so¡­ if both he and the security department captured one of his bodies¡­ he was very likely unable to escape!


    ''it seems¡­ i might not need to resort to my plan b and can wrap this up directly.''


    with this in mind, qiu tu lost the desire to continue talking nonsense with old master qin and was ready to directly issue the order to have him handcuffed and then slowly interrogate him and uncover the secrets of ''god''!


    at that moment, suddenly, qiu tu''s spiritual perception tingled, as if giving him a warning.


    qiu tu instinctively looked in the direction of the warning.


    it was the corridor that led from the villa''s living room to the backyard.


    but when qiu tu looked over, he realized that there was nothing unusual there.


    forget about the cats and birds in movies and tv shows that draw the enemy''s attention; there wasn''t even a piece of paper.


    qiu tu''s brow furrowed slightly, puzzled: could it be¡­ am i being overly suspicious?


    this small villa covered more than 600 square meters, with seven or eight rooms on the first floor, and as the living room that connected everything, it naturally had many pathways, with four or five exits alone.


    although cao dabiao was only guarding the front door, other agents were on watch in the garden in the back, and it would be impossible for someone to enter the villa undetected from the back.


    with these thoughts, qiu tu withdrew his gaze, ready to issue his commands once again.


    but just then, suddenly!


    there was a loud "bang!" of a gunshot!


    qiu tu reflexively ducked his head and then belatedly realized it came from outside the villa!


    at the same time, that gunshot sounded like a signal for the enemy to attack, as a series of gunshots, "bang! bang! bang!" "bang! bang! bang!" began to ring out over the villa!


    ----


    chapter of 10k words is done, haha. continue with 10k words tomorrow! asking for monthly tickets! please subscribe!

 Chapter 139 Turning the Tide! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    hearing that succession of gunshots, even a fool would know something was wrong, that they had encountered a hostile attack.therefore, without needing qiu tu''s instructions, chen feng rushed forward in a few strides, grabbed old master qin''s arms, and twisted him back onto the table, demanding loudly, "you actually dare to arrange an attack on the political department?"


    old master qin also felt incredibly wronged at this moment. although he had committed countless misdeeds, this wasn''t his doing!


    so, with a bewildered look, he shook his head, "i don''t know. this isn''t arranged by me."


    qiu tu''s face was as cold as water as he looked into old master qin''s eyes, briefly discerning that he probably wasn''t lying.


    therefore, qiu tu didn''t panic due to the hostile attack, but instead calmly issued orders, "chen feng, handcuff old master qin to the staircase."


    the staircase in this small villa had metal handrails that couldn''t be moved. once handcuffed, there was no escape.


    chen feng hastily complied, escorted old master qin to the stairs, and handcuffed him.


    seeing that old master qin was secured, qiu tu called out to the outside, "big biao!"


    the living room door was pushed open from the outside, and cao dabiao walked in with a serious face, pistol in hand, "chief!"


    qiu tu ordered, "you and chen feng stay here."


    "keep a close watch on old master qin, don''t let anyone take him away amidst the chaos."


    after speaking, he pulled out his own service pistol, motioned towards liu fuping, and ding xiaoliu and zhu huoyan by the door, "let''s go see who dares to cause trouble outside!"


    when faced with a sudden attack, the composure of the team leader could easily stabilize the moods of the subordinates. s§×ar?h the n?vel?ire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    therefore, seeing how composed qiu tu was, everyone else, who had been nervous just moments ago, calmed down as well.


    they drew their pistols and followed qiu tu out with rapid strides.


    and after chen feng, cao dabiao, and old master qin were left alone in the living room, the atmosphere instantly became much colder.


    cao dabiao also knew this was a crucial moment, so he put away his usual carefree demeanor and took a defensive position on the other side of the living room with his gun, forming a triangular position with chen feng, who was guarding old master qin.


    ¡ª¡ªon a battlefield where enemies might appear at any moment, guards should be spread out to avoid being wiped out all at once.


    and cao dabiao''s behavior indeed posed some difficulty for the shadowy figure who had just sneaked into the living room.


    he glanced at cao dabiao hiding behind a cabinet, then at chen feng guarding old master qin, raising and lowering the rifle in his hand.


    possibly lacking full confidence in rescuing old master qin unharmed, he thought for a moment and then hid upstairs, taking out a small silver metallic box from his pocket.


    the surface of the little box was carved with various eerie and bizarre patterns, inside it was lying a plump white caterpillar.


    opening the box, the shadow gently pinched the white caterpillar.


    the caterpillar, as if in pain, spat out a transparent, delicate thread.


    the shadow continued pinching, and the caterpillar kept releasing more thread.


    soon, there was a small pile of transparent threads in the box.


    the shadow picked up the end of the thread and tossed it into the void toward the floor below. the thread, as if existing in another reality, silently penetrated the floorboards, walls, and countless spaces, striking directly into old master qin''s heart...


    in that instant, old master qin''s body visibly jerked. seeming to know what it was, his expression shifted subtly and he directly inquired in his heart, "lone wolf? you''re here?"


    upstairs, the lone wolf tied the other end of the thread to his finger and also responded in his heart, "old qin, it''s me."


    "qiu tu has been staying in the investigation bureau this whole time, and i never had the chance to make a move."


    "so as soon as he left the bureau today, i followed closely, only to end up here at your place."


    upon hearing this, old master qin asked deeply, "did you bring those people outside?"


    lone wolf replied succinctly, "no."


    "knowing that you were under qiu tu''s control, i didn''t want to spook anyone, just sneaked quietly into the villa without calling for backup yet."


    pausing for a moment, he then asked, "i see that there are only two of them guarding you. if you cooperate with me and find a way to dodge at the right moment, i should be able to get you out safely."


    hearing lone wolf''s words, old master qin immediately rejected the suggestion, "don''t rescue me!"


    "kill qiu tu first!"


    "take him out! then kill that female agent in the living room and this agent beside me!"


    "they are the ones who know my identity."


    "if we don''t deal with them, even if you rescue me, it will be difficult for us to escape xinjie city!"


    "moreover, after killing qiu tu, it should be easier to save me."


    hearing old master qin''s strategy, lone wolf fell silent for a moment, "attacking wei to save zhao is indeed a good idea." stay updated via empire


    "once i assassinate qiu tu, the two agents in the living room may be lured away or thrown into disarray, making them easier to deal with at that point."


    after speaking, he said, "then old qin, wait for me, after i kill qiu tu, i''ll come back to rescue you!"


    having finished the conversation, lone wolf tugged gently at the transparent thread.


    the thread was pulled out from old master qin''s heart.


    after a few tugs, he drew the thread back in front of him.


    lone wolf unwound the thread from his finger, and in the next second, the thread self-ignited without wind, turning into specks of ash.


    seeing this, lone wolf carefully closed the silver box and solemnly put it back in his pocket, then confidently made his way toward the villa entrance with a rifle on his back.


    with his stealth, invisibility class cataclysmic ability, he was the king of assassins walking through the darkness.

 Chapter 139 Turning the Tide! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    after all, unless one is a high order catastrophist, within a meter, a rifle shot to the head means death for anyone¡­¡­


    meanwhile,


    qiu tu had also arrived at the entrance of the villa with liu fuping, ding xiaoliu, zhu huoyan, and other confidants.


    at this time, three groups of agents had already retreated to the entrance of the villa, holding their pistols with pale faces, hiding by the door, and cautiously observing the outside.


    at the main entrance of the villa, seventeen or eighteen united front members, wearing black knitted balaclava hats and worn tactical vests pieced together, were divided into two teams, taking turns shooting at the villa entrance under the cover of barricades.


    the three scantily clad women old master qin had invited today had already died in the first wave of the attack, sprawled in pools of blood.


    seeing this, qiu tu quickly grabbed an agent he knew well and asked with a serious face, "li xian, what the hell happened? how did the united front get here?"


    the agent named li xian was obviously terrified as well. suppressing his racing heart, he looked at qiu tu and said with effort, "chief... chief, i don''t know."


    "we were originally following captain cao''s orders to be on guard in all four directions."


    "then, suddenly, a group of united front members emerged from the roadside and started shooting at us without saying a word."


    "old wang was killed on the spot, and i was injured. i could only run desperately towards the villa."


    "when the other three groups heard the gunshots, they also hurried over to support us. then we retreated back into the villa."


    at this point, li xian even showed his injured right abdomen, which was bloody and had stuck to his uniform.


    on seeing this, qiu tu, with a grave expression, patted li xian''s shoulder, "you guys have had it tough."


    he paused then continued, "since you''re injured now, go inside the villa, find some alcohol to disinfect the wound, and bandage it up. we''ve got this."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, li xian quickly replied, "no problem, chief. i can hold on!"


    "now, the enemy outnumbers us, and we don''t know if they have reinforcements. having one more person to fight means we can hold on a bit longer."


    listening to li xian''s words and seeing his resolute and genuine gaze, qiu tu''s eyes flickered slightly as he patted li xian''s shoulder firmly, "good!"


    while peeking out to observe the enemy''s situation, he arranged, "little liu, count our people. see if everyone has gotten inside the villa."


    "sister liu, call the bureau and ask for reinforcements."


    "huo yan, find some alcohol to disinfect li xian''s wound and bandage it up."


    after a few rapid instructions, the agents at the villa entrance started moving like they had found their backbone.


    seeing this, qiu tu squeezed into a small room facing the outside of the villa and cautiously peered out to observe the situation.


    this time the anti-government armed forces had clearly come prepared.


    they were all fully equipped, with handguns, and even two or three of them had rifles in their hands.


    qiu tu made a quick count, there were 17 in the front. assuming there was at least a group of two from the other three directions, that made 23 people.


    this was nearly double the number of men on qiu tu''s side.


    and compared to the united front members qiu tu had last seen, who fired their guns wildly and haphazardly, these members were obviously much more professional.


    not only did they divide into two groups for alternating fire and suppression, they also used cover to steadily advance, clearly leaving no chance for qiu tu and the others to turn the tables!


    so, just in the short minute that qiu tu had been giving orders, the united front members had already advanced to just three meters from the villa''s door.


    one more dash, and they would be up against the villa''s outer walls!


    keep in mind that this villa was not any sort of military establishment. it didn''t even have security measures, meaning there were too many windows and doors for the attackers to enter directly into the villa.


    once that happened, without the advantage of the terrain, the chances of victory for qiu tu and his people would grow even slimmer!


    thinking this, qiu tu knew he couldn''t let the situation deteriorate any further!


    but... how to deal with these invaders?


    with these thoughts, qiu tu involuntarily started to rapidly ponder over the few cataclysmic treasures and cataclysmic creatures in his possession.


    the seal of ownership, lucky joker card, cataclysmic awakening potion, mandragora love drug, silver key beehive, trigger paper figure...


    as he inventoried the cataclysmic treasures he could use, qiu tu realized that the rewards he had obtained lately were all auxiliary defense relics. he didn''t have a single treasure that could be used for attack!


    the only thing he was grateful for was that he hadn''t rashly used his cataclysmic ability "order space" to interrogate old master qin.


    it gave him a bit more confidence.


    with "order space" and the "trigger paper figure," even if he couldn''t repel the enemy, he could still retreat unharmed.


    it''s just... by that time, the confidants he had painstakingly cultivated, including the recently acquired old master qin, might not be able to take many with him.


    after all... the maximum reach of "order space" was only two meters. facing the current mid-range gunfight, it had practically no effect, serving only for self-preservation and escape.


    this made him quite unwilling!


    thinking this way, his brows furrowed tightly as he continued to contemplate a way to break through...


    he had been deep in thought for just two seconds.


    suddenly, qiu tu''s eyes lit up.


    wait a second! a gunfight...?


    when this keyword surfaced, qiu tu seemed to have thought of something, his eyes gradually beginning to shine!


    if... that was the case, perhaps, he had a chance to take on these thugs!


    with this thought, qiu tu quickly went to the corridor and called over liu fuping, who had just finished on the phone, and another agent, "sister liu, jiao ming, come with me!"


    although liu fuping and jiao ming didn''t understand what qiu tu meant, they followed him back to the room out of trust for qiu tu.


    amidst the intense gunfire, all the glass in the front rooms of the villa shattered, a breeze blowing the smoke into the room, filling their nostrils with the scents of gunpowder and sulfur.


    but qiu tu seemed as if he hadn''t smelled it at all; he took a gun from liu fuping, held dual pistols, crouched down, and then... activated his cataclysmic ability "order space"!


    with the activation of "order space," qiu tu also set the rule for today''s "order space":


    "within order space, my pistol shooting level will reach the highest level attainable by me personally!"


    as the rule was established, qiu tu raised his head to look outside the villa.


    at that moment, qiu tu felt as if the pistols in his hands were part of his arms, intimately familiar.


    he knew their weight, details, and textures as if they were brand new.


    and as he raised the pistol and aimed outside, in qiu tu''s eyes, it was as if there were faint white dashed lines, allowing him to easily track the bullet trajectories!


    already possessing a high talent for shooting, coupled with the powers bestowed by his cataclysmic ability, he was like aided by god. enjoy new tales from empire


    his expressionless face adjusted the aim of the gun slightly, targeting the leader of the anti-government armed forces who was just about to sprint out from cover, then... with an indifferent gaze, he pulled the trigger!


    the next second, flames flickered, gunpowder ignited!


    a bullet fiercely flew out from the muzzle of qiu tu''s gun, then instantly crossed several meters, drilling directly into the forehead of the leader who was charging forward!


    there was a muffled "bang!"


    a red dot appeared on the leader''s forehead. with an incredulous expression on his face, his body still poised to sprint!


    then... with a "thump," he fell to the ground!


    for a moment, the scene seemed to fall silent.


    but qiu tu did not stop his actions! s§×ar?h the n?vel(f)ire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    -----


    today is still a 10,000-word update. the 3rd chapter will be updated around 19:00! asking for monthly tickets! asking for subscriptions!

 Chapter 140 Crazy Massacre! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    at that moment, he was like a ruthless killing machine, adjusting the aim, confirming the shooting trajectory, and pulling the trigger!"bang!" "bang!" "bang!"


    at this time, qiu tu was like the grim reaper himself, each shot claiming a vibrant life!


    at this juncture, not to mention the united front members outside the villa, even liu fuping and jiao ming inside the house were stunned.


    xinjie city had just been established, with much to be done, and the agents of the investigation bureau had hardly undergone much training.


    especially in departments like the political department, which dealt with espionage and counter-espionage and rarely needed to go into battle, seeing such skilled marksmanship was indeed unusual.


    so, at that moment, they were all too shocked to speak!


    just then, while they were still in shock, qiu tu suddenly threw the gun in his hands to the other two, snatched the gun from jiao ming''s hand, and said coldly, "reload!"


    after speaking, qiu tu, holding a single gun, aimed outside the window and once again began firing with a "bang bang bang!"


    qiu tu''s natural talent for shooting was not lacking, and in his previous life, he had undergone some training, but now, with the enhancement of his cataclysmic ability, he truly had the strength of a tiger with added wings!


    he felt like he was a special agent in some movie, on an unstoppable killing spree, with every bullet finding its enemy!


    at this time, the members of the united front outside the villa were utterly dumbfounded.


    their attack had been thoroughly planned. not only had they discussed combat strategies but also as they advanced, they didn''t act rashly, taking cover behind various shelters and moving forward under the covering fire.


    therefore, aside from the first few united front members qiu tu killed who had no cover, the rest he took down were hiding behind cover, merely poking their heads out a little!


    even then, they couldn''t escape qiu tu''s bullets!


    moreover... what was even more fatal was that qiu tu''s shots hit their foreheads, killing with each bullet!


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    if this world had any online games, those united front members would surely be yelling that qiu tu was cheating, and that he was using an aimbot!


    regardless, qiu tu''s counterattack had them thoroughly bewildered.


    especially when qiu tu, wielding dual guns, took down five or six united front members with shots just above their covers, making them too scared to even move, let alone return fire.


    thus, for a time, qiu tu alone managed to suppress the firepower of over a dozen men!


    at this point, qiu tu began to feel it. relying on the protection of his "trigger dummy," he stood upright and shouted to the outside, "come on! i''m right here!"


    "if you dare, shoot me!"


    hearing qiu tu''s arrogant shouts, indeed, someone couldn''t help but stick out their head, intending to shoot qiu tu twice!


    but as soon as they did, a "bang!" echoed from a gunshot.


    the next second, a sharp pain spread rapidly from his forehead through his entire body!


    the following second, he fell to the ground, losing consciousness completely!


    qiu tu''s astonishing marksmanship truly terrified the united front members. seeing that fearless member struck dead by qiu tu, they were even more afraid to make a move.


    but while they dared not move, qiu tu did!


    qiu tu turned to jiao ming and instructed, "lead the brothers out! don''t worry, i''ll provide cover fire!"


    if anyone had told jiao ming before today that one person would provide cover fire for them, jiao ming would probably have thought the person was crazy!


    but having witnessed qiu tu''s extraordinary shooting, having seen how he suppressed the firepower of more than a dozen men with deadly accuracy, there was only one thought in jiao ming''s mind: just do it!


    with that thought, he sprinted out of the room, leading the equally astonished agents in a charge!


    as agents of the political department, everyone there was usually too proud to accept defeat. but today, they had nearly been annihilated by a group of anti-government armed forces, and they were already furious.


    however, disadvantaged in numbers, they could only hide in the villa, waiting for their fate to be sealed.


    now that qiu tu had managed to scatter the opposition with his one-man effort, their earlier frustration and anger transformed into a strong desire to fight!


    as a result, almost without needing qiu tu''s cover, these agents charged into the covers of the united front members, and after a few minor skirmishes, they subdued the entire enemy group!


    thus, the battle ended in just a few short minutes.


    on qiu tu''s side, one dead and five wounded. aside from the agent who was initially killed by stray bullets, there were no further deaths, and the five injured were only lightly wounded.


    one even got injured simply because... he ran too fast and sprained his ankle.


    the united front had 22 members, nine killed by qiu tu, two more shot dead in the melee by the agents, and all the rest captured alive!


    such a glorious record made liu fuping smile so wide her mouth couldn''t close, and she took the initiative to go out and help.


    seeing that the battle was finally over, qiu tu also let out a sigh of relief.


    he took a deep breath, withdrew his gaze, then turned around intending to check on old master qin.


    but at that moment,


    he suddenly froze.


    because... right in his line of sight, a sneaky shadow slowly appeared in his "order space"...


    the scene was exceedingly eerie: first a foot slowly emerged on the edge of the "order space," followed by a man''s leg, and then a man''s torso and head.


    until the very end, the dark shadow fully appeared in front of qiu tu.


    it was a middle-aged man who looked to be in his thirties, with thick, disorderly hair that merged with his stubble, all unkempt.


    he wore protective goggles, carried a grass-green backpack on his back, and held a rifle in his hands; then... just a meter away from qiu tu, he carefully aimed the rifle''s muzzle at qiu tu''s head, his index finger on the trigger, seemingly ready to shoot...


    qiu tu: .....


    he swiftly lifted his gun and aimed at the middle-aged man''s forehead, and "bang!" he fired a shot!


    with the boost from the order space, the bullet accurately penetrated the middle-aged man''s forehead, bringing up a spray of fresh blood!


    the middle-aged man wore a look of disbelief on his face, his eyes wide open, staring at qiu tu as if questioning how qiu tu could see him! s§×arch* the novelfire.net* website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    qiu tu: .....


    this guy is an idiot!


    thought he was invisible, did he!? to attempt such a brazen assassination on me!


    with that thought, qiu tu "eh?" uttered in surprise.


    right... didn''t this person seem to slowly appear just now?


    thinking this, qiu tu glanced at the middle-aged man who had died with his eyes open, then at the order space surrounding him, and his face lit up with realization.


    oh... this person was really invisible!


    he probably moved so carefully and with such small gestures because he was invisible and afraid of making any noise.


    and it was because of his invisibility that he was so brazenly able to sneak up beside me and aim a gun at me from close range!


    unfortunately for him, he didn''t know that the entire small room was within the range of my order space.


    perhaps since my order space is a domain-type ability, and it repels other cataclysmic powers, his ability failed, causing him to reveal his form?


    at this realization, qiu tu was caught between laughter and tears for a moment.


    he was so lost in the killing earlier that he hadn''t paid much attention, and, unexpectedly, he had casually eliminated a cataclysmic?


    this must be the most frustrated death a cataclysmic has ever suffered, right?


    bizarrely, qiu tu felt a hint of the absurdity one might experience in reality!


    who would have thought a cataclysmic''s entrance could end so simply, while those ordinary united front members had made him rack his brains.


    while thinking this, qiu tu also dragged the cataclysmic''s body aside, checking the things that the man had been carrying.


    a dagger, a slightly odd little box, a somewhat old-fashioned looking coin, and a dozen or so silver yuans.


    at first glance, none of them were worth much money.


    qiu tu curled his lip, dragging the body of this penniless dead man to one side, and picked up his rifle, preparing to go to the living room to check on old master qin.


    no sooner had he taken a step, did the crisis countdown in the upper left corner of his vision start to slowly rotate.


    in a moment, the hourglass of "danger in the dark," which would have ended in one day, slowly turned into a bouncing treasure chest.


    qiu tu''s eyes swept over the little chest, and he formed a conjecture: it seems... these opponents were likely considered a "danger" that could potentially pose a threat to my life by the crisis countdown.


    hence, having dealt with them ahead of time, the crisis countdown disappeared as well.


    thinking this, qiu tu didn''t immediately check the rewards that exploded out of the treasure chest, but instead made his way toward the living room.


    by now, the gunfight outside had concluded. liu fuping, jiao ming, ding xiaoliu, zhu huoyan and the others were all leading the captured united front members back into the villa, one by one.


    upon seeing qiu tu, fear filled the eyes of the united front thugs, whereas jiao ming, ding xiaoliu, zhu huoyan, and the others looked at him with respect and eagerness.


    no one does not love the person who saves them at a crisis, nor does anyone not respect a superior who can lead their subordinates to turn the tide and claim victory.


    [jiao ming''s loyalty +32]


    [liu fuping''s loyalty +28]


    [zhu huoyan, li xian, ding xiaoliu, shi zhang, su yun... loyalty +21]


    viewing the rise in loyalty of his confidants "swish swish swish" due to the gun battle, and seeing the obvious change in their expressions, qiu tu smiled and nodded.


    he stepped into the living room, where chen feng and cao dabiao were still vigilantly on guard.


    as for old master qin, he sat nonchalantly on the stair steps, his hands cuffed to the stair railing, completely unaffected by the gunfire.


    when qiu tu came in, chen feng and cao dabiao quickly greeted him, "chief!"


    and cao dabiao, more impulsive in nature, immediately followed up with the question, "chief, has the gunfight outside ended?"


    qiu tu smiled and nodded, just about to offer an explanation.


    but just then, suddenly a "clattering" noise of metal friction sounded.


    qiu tu reflexively looked over, then saw old master qin, his face showing surprise, looking at the rifle that qiu tu had just gathered from the dead cataclysmic. perhaps due to the excitement, the handcuffs rubbed against the railing...


    ------


    today is still 10,000 words. chapter 3 will be updated around 19:00! requesting monthly tickets! requesting subscriptions!

 Chapter 141 Shooting Old Master Qin (10,000-Word Plea for Subscription!)

    ```perhaps sensing qiu tu''s unusual gaze, old master qin also realized his own lapse and quickly returned his expression to one of complete calm, as if nothing had happened.


    it was no wonder he couldn''t maintain his composure.


    mainly because... lone wolf was a cataclysmic, and a cataclysmic whose catastrophe power was perfectly suited for assassination!


    his cataclysmic ability, "shadow stealth," was an extremely terrifying power.


    it not only allowed him to become completely invisible while moving through shadows, masking his presence, but also enabled him to make the objects he touched become invisible as well.


    this made his cataclysmic ability incredibly versatile.


    whether it was for assassination, theft, or investigation, it played a significant role.


    since investing a hefty sum to cultivate lone wolf, old master qin had arranged for him to carry out many tasks over the years.


    every time, lone wolf returned unscathed and undefeated. whether it was ordinary officials or businessmen, let alone cataclysmics, there were no fewer than seven or eight who had died at his hands.


    it could be said that lone wolf was the ace up old master qin''s sleeve.


    so when lone wolf was preparing to strike at qiu tu, old master qin had already written qiu tu off as a dead man.


    now, qiu tu had returned unharmed, while lone wolf had vanished without a trace. that was why old master qin was somewhat out of sorts, which led to the action that caught qiu tu''s attention just now...


    at this moment, qiu tu also noticed old master qin''s abnormal behavior.


    even though old master qin''s expression and movements had returned to normal, qiu tu still keenly detected something amiss.


    he glanced at the rifle in his hand, pondered for a moment, then smiled at the feigned calm old master qin and said, "it seems... the gunman who tried to assassinate me was one of your men, old master."


    upon hearing this, old master qin chuckled and denied it, "i don''t know what you''re talking about."


    qiu tu didn''t care, he gestured to cao dabiao and instructed, "go to the entrance hall and drag the gunman''s body over here."


    cao dabiao took the order, "yes!"


    before long, the body of lone wolf was dragged into the living room by cao dabiao.


    by this time, even though there was no change in old master qin''s facial expression at the sight of lone wolf''s body, his heart was set off like a tempest.


    if before, upon seeing the rifle, old master qin could still deceive himself that lone wolf had escaped or carelessly dropped his weapon, but... now, seeing lone wolf''s body, he could no longer fool himself.


    lone wolf was truly dead!


    dead at the hands of this young section chief before him!


    how could this be possible?


    one question after another swirled in old master qin''s mind.


    before he could sort out his thoughts, a loud "bang!" jerked his thoughts back to reality!


    old master qin looked towards qiu tu, who had fired the shot in horror.


    then he saw qiu tu aiming the rifle at a cabinet, having just shattered a glazed polychrome monthly ticket porcelain vase on it!


    at this moment, seeing old master qin''s gaze turning towards him, qiu tu slowly turned the rifle''s muzzle in old master qin''s direction.


    looking at the smoking barrel, chilling old master qin to the bone, a loud alarm sounded in his mind at that very moment!


    sure enough, as qiu tu aimed the rifle''s sights at old master qin, he jokingly said, "don''t be afraid, old master, that shot was just a fluke. actually... my marksmanship is pretty mediocre, and i''ve never used a rifle before."


    "so... how many shots do you think it''ll take for me to hit you?"


    in that instant, old master qin''s forehead was slick with sweat.


    trying to laugh it off, he said, "chief qiu, you always like to joke like this."


    qiu tu laughed along with a "haha" and then said, "i do enjoy a good joke."


    "but i... don''t like people who always beat around the bush with me."


    as he spoke, qiu tu''s face turned cold, and then he said, "so, tell me, old master. do you choose to spill all the information, or choose... death?"


    old master qin felt sweat streaming down his cheeks, and with difficulty said, "what information?"


    qiu tu''s eyes were dark as ink as he asked, "what is ''god''? how do you know him?"


    "are you a cataclysmic, possessing some kind of abilities?"


    "what bargain did you strike with ''god''?"


    "does he have other followers in xinjie city? what are his aims?"


    just now, qiu tu had killed ten people, so when his killing intent boiled over, an eerie aura instantly filled the living room.


    thus, old master qin had no doubt that qiu tu would truly pull the trigger!


    so, staring at qiu tu''s dark muzzle and feeling the undisguised intent to kill, old master qin''s complexion continuously shifted, as if weighing the pros and cons...


    after a moment, he inquired, "if i answer your questions, will you spare me?"


    qiu tu said expressionlessly, "of course. i am a man of my word and never lie to anyone."


    upon hearing this, old master qin''s face went through several changes, then, as if making up his mind, he looked at cao dabiao and chen feng and said to qiu tu, "let them leave. i''ll talk about ''god''s'' secrets only with you."


    ```


    upon hearing this, qiu tu, still holding his gun, slightly nodded his head towards cao dabiao and chen feng, signaling, "you two, guard the door."


    upon hearing his words, both looked at qiu tu with a hint of worry, obviously concerned that old master qin might have other tricks up his sleeve. but seeing the firm look in qiu tu''s eyes, they eventually walked out of the living room in silence and closed the door from the outside¡­.


    after the two had left, qiu tu continued to aim his gun at old master qin and said expressionlessly, "speak, reveal your secret with ''god''¡­."


    ¡­....


    meanwhile, while qiu tu was extorting information from old master qin at gunpoint,


    cao dabiao and chen feng were quietly chatting outside the door.


    leaning against the wall with a cigarette, cao dabiao squinted as he smoked and asked, "chen feng, do you know what i saw just now when i went out?"


    chen feng, with a cold face and standing guard at the door, casually asked, "what did you see?"


    cao dabiao replied, "i saw bodies everywhere, more than a dozen, all members of the united front."


    ever since qiu tu entered the living room, chen feng had guessed that their own side had won the battle.


    to win a gunfight, casualties were inevitable, so he indifferently responded, "so what?"


    cao dabiao squinted his eyes as he took a deep drag, "but they were all shot in the forehead, a kill with one shot."


    chen feng paused for a moment.


    leaning against the wall, cao dabiao looked down and flicked the ashes off his cigarette, then continued, "....according to little liu, our officer killed all those people single-handedly."


    chen feng''s pupils slightly constricted.


    cao dabiao''s hand trembled slightly, "and... all within twenty or so seconds."


    chen feng abruptly turned to cao dabiao.


    feeling chen feng''s gaze, cao dabiao took a deep drag on his cigarette and exhaled heavily before he chuckled bitterly and asked, "do you think... the times have changed?"


    he leaned back his head, somewhat melancholic, and said, "''god''... ''catastrophe power''... ''cataclysmic treasures''... ''curse''...."


    "although i was not in the living room earlier, i participated in the previous interrogation."


    experience more tales on empire


    "from the brief remarks of the chief and those traffickers, i guessed that it seems to be a world completely different from our understanding." s§×arch* the n?velfire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "what exactly is that world like?"


    hearing cao dabiao''s words, chen feng also fell silent.


    after a moment, he slowly said, "since the chief deliberately let us encounter these cases, he clearly wishes to prepare us with a certain awareness before gradually leading us into that world."


    "i think, as long as we closely follow the chief''s footsteps, we will definitely reach that new world."


    "perhaps... by then, we could also possess those kinds of miraculous powers."


    despite saying this, the usually composed chen feng couldn''t help but grip his hands tightly....


    twenty or so seconds, to slaughter over a dozen people....


    it was truly a dimension-reducing strike from a "higher being."


    is the gap between cataclysmics and ordinary people truly that vast?


    previously, due to the unclear distinction between cataclysmics and ordinary people, chen feng, though curious about the world of cataclysmics, did not have much longing.


    but now, after learning about qiu tu''s battle achievements and old master qin''s "immortality" miracle, his heart was no longer indifferent....


    at this moment, while cao dabiao and chen feng were discussing cataclysmics,


    suddenly, "bang! bang! bang!"


    three loud gunshots echoed throughout the entire villa!


    both men jolted, reflexively looking towards the direction of the living room. chen feng took a quick step towards the door to open it, while cao dabiao quickly snuffed out his cigarette and followed!


    just as both of them reached for the doorknob, the door to the villa''s living room was opened from the inside. qiu tu wiped his hands with an indifferent look, using a white handkerchief as he sandwiched the communicator between his shoulder and cheek, speaking on the phone,


    "shuman, i''ve shared the intelligence on ''god'' with you. i also told you the leads. don''t delay, start your control operations right now."


    "this is not a minor issue. if it blows up, it would be a huge scandal, no matter for your security department or for our investigation bureau."


    upon seeing qiu tu, chen feng and cao dabiao promptly stood at attention, saluting.


    having finished saluting, and as if they just realized something, they carefully shifted their gaze, peering through the wide-open door.


    then... they saw old master qin, who had been chained to the staircase, now lying in a pool of blood with three bullet wounds, lifeless.


    and the assault rifle, somehow, had been placed back into the hands of the man cao dabiao had dragged in....


    perhaps sensing their gaze, qiu tu seemed to recall something and "oh"ed, and then he put down the communicator and calmly said to them, "by the way. just now, a gunman entered through the back door and shot qin cheng, qin wuyi."


    "when i witnessed this, i drew my gun and killed the gunman."


    "go and take care of the scene."


    after speaking, he went back to making his phone calls with the communicator....


    -----


    chapter with 10,000 words, continuing the daily 10k tonight! calling for monthly tickets, calling for subscriptions!

 Chapter 142 Qin Shuman: Im Poisonous, You Know~ (12,000 words 1/3)

    meanwhile, upon hearing qiu tu''s words, chen feng and cao dabiao glanced at qiu tu''s receding figure, then back at the two corpses inside the house, feeling their hearts chill.at this moment, they seemed to recall qiu tu''s decisive killings of enemies and his manipulation of people''s hearts, his capability to control circumstances as easy as turning his hand over.


    ''our commander, even if he''s not a cataclysmic, is no simple character.''


    thinking this way, the two exchanged glances, promptly followed qiu tu''s arrangement and went into the house to deal with the scene.


    actually, qiu tu had already thought about the aftermath and his explanation when he shot old master qin, so the two did not need to consider anything else, needing only to follow qiu tu''s plan and restore the scene.


    thus, quickly, a murder scene was reconstructed.


    after arranging the scene, standing in the spacious villa hall and looking around, the once splendid living room was now shattered and scarred, with the original owner of the villa laying in a puddle of blood, devoid of life. added to the pervasive smell of blood inside and outside the villa, it indeed felt as if they were in a completely different world.


    after surveying the hall and looking at the busy agents outside the window, cao dabiao thought for a moment, then whispered to chen feng, "chen feng, the reinforcements from the department should arrive soon. do you think... we should silence the others first?"


    the matter of qiu tu shooting old master qin was known only to cao dabiao and chen feng, so clearly, cao dabiao wasn''t referring to this incident but rather... the incident where qiu tu shot and killed over a dozen united front members in about twenty seconds.


    hence, upon hearing cao dabiao''s words, chen feng also felt a bit hesitant.


    but after struggling internally for two seconds, he ultimately nodded and said, "we should indeed silence them."


    "i guess the commander doesn''t want this matter to become a sensation either."


    with that, he paused, "otherwise... the commander wouldn''t have switched to three different guns to kill the enemy."


    upon hearing chen feng''s words, cao dabiao''s face suddenly showed a look of realization, "yeah! you''re right!"


    after agreeing, both of them paused, then involuntarily looked at each other, reading shock in each other''s eyes.


    their commander really was the type to plan three steps ahead.


    before, when cao dabiao had moved the middle-aged man''s corpse and while holding the rifle, he had already figured out how old master qin would die.


    and now it seemed... he probably had also figured out his alibi while he was shooting his enemies.


    ''it''s really scary....'' s§×arch* the nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''is this the difference between a monster and an ordinary person?''


    thinking this, they dared not speculate on qiu tu''s thoughts further and quickly began to gather agents to start the cover-up.


    as for the surviving united front members, were they likely to leak information?


    the two weren''t worried.


    not to mention the crimes these united front members had committed, and their insignificant status at the bottom, made it highly probable they would be executed on the spot, with no chance to divulge anything.


    and even if they weren''t executed on the spot and were taken back to the political department for interrogation... don''t forget, the interrogation section was qiu tu''s turf....


    ...


    meanwhile.


    qin shuman was also discussing this issue with qiu tu, "you used your cataclysmic ability in front of so many people, aren''t you afraid yan chen, jia shu, and the others will find out?"


    however, qiu tu just laughed and said nonchalantly, "it''s time they knew too."


    "pieces have their own value, after all. the higher the value, the more you''re regarded, right?"


    upon hearing these words, qin shuman realized that qiu tu had already considered all the consequences before using his power.


    so she didn''t press further, trusting him, and shifted the conversation back to the case at hand.


    "to be honest, if you hadn''t provided the information, we would never have guessed that ''qin heng'' was actually not qin heng but old master qin, and that he had two bodies."


    "no wonder he was so composed all the time during our rotational interrogations."


    "we had speculated that qin heng had received professional training and was accustomed to these interrogations."


    "turns out, he was actually enjoying his time with his other body while we were interrogating him."


    at this point, qin shuman couldn''t help but laugh bitterly, "and he didn''t just enjoy himself with one, but three! unbelievable!"


    hearing this, qiu tu seemed to see in his mind the scene of qin shuman and the security department members increasing the interrogation intensity, while "qin heng" appeared relaxed and unconcerned...


    after all, how could he not feel blissful while frolicking with three girls?


    so they must have been completely baffled at the time, suspecting "qin heng" was a masochist...


    with that thought, qiu tu couldn''t help but laugh as well.


    after the laughter, qin shuman returned to serious matters, saying, "but now that you''ve destroyed his other body, he''ll soon break down."


    "once the interrogation is over, i''ll give you a copy of his record."


    "as for the parts about ''god'', they might involve secrets i can''t give you in writing, so i''ll tell you personally when we meet someday," she said.


    qiu tu grunted in acknowledgment, smoothly replying, "then... i look forward to the day we meet." read latest chapters at empire


    at qiu tu''s words, qin shuman let out a soft laugh, her voice tender as she teased, "is that all you''re looking forward to about meeting me?"


    qiu tu laughed as well, saying, "of course, i''m also looking forward to..."


    "having a few drinks with you."


    a simple phrase split into two, suddenly infused with a suggestive undertone.


    on the other end of the phone, qin shuman chuckled lightly, playfully retorted, "that definitely won''t do."

 Chapter 142 Qin Shuman: Im Poisonous, You Know~ (12,000 words 2/3)

    qiu tu, "why?"qin shuman''s voice was a bit muffled as she drew out her words, "because... my drink is poisoned."


    qiu tu was puzzled, "poisoned?"


    qin shuman, "yes. drinking it can cause addiction."


    qiu tu laughed, "i''m not afraid."


    qin shuman laughed even more joyfully, "but i am."


    qiu tu, "you''re afraid?"


    with a seductive tone, qin shuman "hmm~" and said, "i''m afraid... that you won''t be able to handle it in the end."


    hearing qin shuman''s teasing words, qiu tu could no longer suppress a smile, "then it seems... i must try it."


    after finishing, he added another sentence, "by the way, you''re talking about drinking, right?"


    "giggle giggle giggle." at this point, qin shuman couldn''t stop laughing.


    hearing qin shuman''s happy laughter, qiu tu also smiled, then he teasingly said, "alright, bring on whatever tricks you have, as long as it''s yours... i''ll take it all."


    hearing qiu tu''s candid love talk, qin shuman on the other end of the phone laughed even louder...


    after a brief chat, qin shuman hung up the phone somewhat reluctantly. then, holding the communicator and smiling at the corner of her mouth, she gazed out the window at the scenery, slightly lost in thought...


    and so she stared for three to four seconds.


    suddenly, a strange coughing sound came from behind her, "cough cough..."


    qin shuman startled, then turned around to look. she saw her subordinate, lin zuo, standing in front of her desk with a lifeless expression on his face.


    qin shuman felt taken aback and hesitated before asking, "when did you come in?"


    lin zuo, "since the part about your drink being poisoned."


    he paused, then asked expressionlessly, "is chief really planning to poison qiu tu?"


    "i have a bottle of poison here that will kill him instantly if he drinks it, do you want to borrow it?"


    "or... you could pour it down my throat instead."


    this dog food, lin zuo has really had enough of it.


    this time it was qin shuman who coughed. she "cough coughed" twice, then promptly changed the subject, "don''t talk about personal matters while working! hmm... i called you here because there''s a task for you..."


    "qiu tu provided a clue. he said there''s a man who likes to wear a clown mask and has red hair..."


    as qin shuman started talking business, lin zuo''s expressionless face gradually became serious...


    .....


    meanwhile.


    after finishing his call with qin shuman, qiu tu returned to his villa to handle the aftermath.


    perhaps because his heroics today had greatly boosted loyalty, the loyalty level of these detectives generally reached about 70-80, so they all looked at qiu tu with fervent gazes.


    seeing this, qiu tu didn''t sit idle. he struck while the iron was hot, stopping to show concern for each detective, ensuring the newly elevated loyalty levels were secured.


    like this, ten minutes passed.


    not long after winning people''s hearts, several t-model cars loaded with detectives came from the distance, kicking up dust as they sped over!


    and behind the cars, more temporary detectives were running, heading towards the villa as well.


    upon reaching the villa''s gate, the t-model cars screeched to a stop. then a squad of detectives jumped out and started setting up a perimeter tensely at the villa''s entrance.


    clearly... these were the reinforcements qiu tu had asked liu fuping to call for.


    the only pity was... like the unwritten rule in countless dramas: reinforcements always arrive leisurely after the enemy has been vanquished.


    by this time, the squad of detectives also seemed to realize they were too late, so after hesitating for a moment, they sent a tall, thin detective into the villa to check the situation.


    once inside the villa, the tall, slender detective had barely taken two steps forward when ding xiaoliu and jiao ming, who were on guard at the door, stepped forward and stopped him. "political department handling the case! which department are you from?"


    hearing ding xiaoliu''s words, the detective quickly said with an embarrassed smile, "hello, officer, we are detectives from the xiafang street public security office. we received orders from the bureau to come and assist."


    after speaking, he scanned the scene, then cautiously asked, "may i ask... have we arrived too late?"


    hearing the detective''s words, ding xiaoliu and jiao ming exchanged a glance, then ding xiaoliu said proudly, "you are indeed late. the enemy has been completely annihilated by us."


    after that, he added, "have your superior come to meet our chief."


    "yes!" the detective saluted, then turned and left the villa.


    actually, both ding xiaoliu and jiao ming were third-level detectives, holding the same rank as the detective before them. find more to read at empire


    however... as the ace department of the investigation bureau, with internal supervision powers, the political department has always been considered half a rank higher than other departments.


    so, let alone being third-level detectives, even the deputy staff from other departments had to rank half a step below the political department''s deputy staff...


    not long after the detective left the villa, a stout figure in uniform, round in shape with the look of a superior officer on his face, followed him inside.


    the fat man had clearly rushed over upon receiving orders, his face covered in sweat, looking somewhat disheveled.


    and judging from his shoulder insignia with one bar and two flowers, he should be the head of the public security office, ranking one level higher than qiu tu, making him a bonafide chief.


    upon arriving at the villa, the fat man with eyes as small as green beans glanced around the bloodstained scene, then his sharp gaze landed on qiu tu, who was inspecting li xian''s injuries...


    that moment, his eyes lit up, and he rushed over with his short legs, offering a greasy smile as he extended his hand first, "chief qiu, hello, hello. my name is cui daren, i am the director of the xiafang street public security bureau."


    hearing his eager introduction, qiu tu sensed something was off. he stood up and instead of rashly shaking the chief''s hand, he first inquired, "director cui knows me?"


    cui daren wiped the sweat from his forehead and said with a chuckle, "chief qiu, you must be joking, how could i possibly not know you. i am one of your subordinates!"


    qiu tu: ??


    qiu tu looked at cui daren''s shoulder insignia, confirming he was a legitimate chief.


    a deputy chief himself, even if it was from a special department like the political department, could at most present as half a rank higher to show off his authority in front of another deputy chief, how could he possibly be the superior of a bona fide chief?


    with this thought, qiu tu''s puzzlement only deepened.


    at that moment, possibly seeing qiu tu''s confusion, cui daren explained with a smile, "chief qiu, you might be too important to remember."


    "just yesterday, your political department approved our public security bureau''s ''joint investigation application,'' and then appointed you as the head of the ''8.16 potion robbery case investigation team.''


    "from that moment on, all of us from the xiafang street public security office, as well as the previous members of the investigation team, are temporarily under your leadership."


    "so, we are indeed your subordinates!"


    cui daren was clearly talkative, once he started speaking, he seemed unable to stop.


    he said, "let me tell you, we''ve really been at our wits'' end lately, this case has been too difficult to crack, with no information or clues at all!"


    "so, we''ve been hoping and praying for an expert to come save us!"


    "now that you''re here, we can rest easy!"


    hearing cui daren''s words, qiu tu finally understood why the legitimate chief before him was claiming to be his subordinate.


    indeed, for the convenience of handling the case, within a ''joint investigation team,'' the invited experts from dominant departments often serve as team leaders and have the highest command authority; other members serve as subordinates and follow their orders. s§×ar?h the n?vel(f)ire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    so... cui daren''s claim of being his subordinate was not incorrect.


    however... the ''pharmacy robbery case''...


    considering this, qiu tu couldn''t help but view cui daren with a more complex expression...


    this case was not that simple...


    with these thoughts, qiu tu also couldn''t help but recall the intelligence he had just received from old master qin...


    ----


    still 3 chapters of 10,000 characters each. the third chapter will be updated around 19:00. vote for monthly tickets! subscribe!

 Chapter 143 Sanctuary Rewards (12,000 words 2/3)

    according to old master qin''s statement,the "god" he worshipped, named "larilo," was not some high order cataclysmic creature, but a genuine deity.


    she possessed porcelain-like skin and a perfect figure, with a golden crown on her head and a white gauze draped over her body, enchanting and beautiful.


    the path of cataclysm she practiced was: reproduction.


    the reason old master qin became her follower was also due to a coincidence.


    more than twenty years ago, after an unsatisfactory experience, old master qin was extremely vexed and prayed that if only he could regain his vigor, he was willing to pay any price!


    as a result... that night, he dreamed of larilo.


    in the dream, larilo told him that she was the deity who governed reproduction, and that all domains related to the continuation of life were under her control.


    therefore, she could not only help old master qin regain his vigor, but she could also enable him to return to his youth and achieve immortality.


    however, the price was that old master qin must worship her and become her follower.


    at the time, old master qin thought it was a fanciful dream born of his daytime thoughts, so he didn''t take it seriously and agreed right away.


    who knew that the next day, old master qin actually did regain his vigor! not only did he have a long battle with his mistress, but he also left her wailing loudly!


    just... this did not make old master qin very happy. on the contrary... it filled him with immense fear.


    after all, if everything that happened in the dream was true, then it meant he might have made an irrevocable deal with a mysterious, unknown existence.


    therefore, he began trying to figure out what exactly had happened.


    but in that era... humans hadn''t even given birth to cataclysmics, nor had they developed cataclysmic ability, so how could they understand what a "god" was?


    so, after failing to understand what had happened, old master qin simply decided to cut his losses and enjoy the benefits that larilo had brought him.


    during this time, he sometimes worried whether larilo might be an evil god, or if there was some kind of trap involved.


    but.... after living like this for two or three years without noticing anything unusual and with his body in good health, he eventually came to believe that the deity he worshipped was genuinely a "god."


    thus, gradually, he became more devout.


    in the years that followed, old master qin also repeatedly asked larilo what she needed. if there was anything he, as a follower, could do....


    but larilo''s response was always that she didn''t need anything. all she needed was for her follower to be "sexually" happy....


    this was also the reason old master qin firmly believed that larilo was a true god and worth his worship....


    as for the "immortality" deal old master qin made with larilo, it was also straightforward.


    after knowing larilo for seven or eight years, as old master qin''s age gradually increased, he also began to fear death. so he implored larilo to slow his aging and grant him eternal life.


    this time, after a long period of contemplation, larilo agreed but also set forth a condition.


    larilo would grant old master qin an immortal soul, as long as he continuously switched to bodies related to him by blood, he could achieve immortality!


    in return, old master qin needed to use "cloned female body" technology to cultivate a suitable female body for larilo and to facilitate her descent into this world.


    this request was so straightforward that it took old master qin by surprise.


    so, he agreed without hesitation.


    thus, over the next ten-plus years, old master qin, while cultivating bodies for himself and larilo, aligned himself with the united front to acquire resources and strive for development.


    finally, after his relentless efforts, the qin family became the leading great family in xinjie city, and three years ago, his soul attained immortality and entered into qin heng and qin cheng''s bodies respectively.


    one of these bodies continued to control the qin family, while the other led a life of luxury, throwing lavish parties to accumulate power for him and larilo.


    and at last, just over half a month ago, the body for larilo was finally ready.


    consequently, old master qin arranged the deity descension ceremony according to larilo''s instructions to facilitate her descent!


    only, on the day of the ceremony, no one knows what happened, but old master qin lost consciousness after initiating the ritual, not waking up until the next day.


    by then, larilo''s body had vanished without a trace. s§×ar?h the n?vel_fire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    afterward, when old master qin tried to contact larilo, he found himself unable to reach her....


    when qiu tu heard old master qin''s story, he had only one thought: this old man is a damn fool, isn''t he!


    even fools know "those not of our kind must have a different heart"!


    and they are aware "there is no such thing as a free lunch"!


    yet, he gullibly believed in an unknown, incoming "deity" and even dedicated more than a decade to preparing for her arrival in this world!


    in the end, he was ruthlessly abandoned by that deity!


    and most importantly... qiu tu suspected that the ceremony was likely a success.


    because... the information about larilo obtained from old master qin matched certain scenes qiu tu had seen through the masked man in the suit and wang xi.


    in several of the memory fragments viewed by qiu tu, he noticed that both the masked man in the suit and wang xi also seemed to be practicing the path of "reproduction" and "love born of heart."


    moreover, just like old master qin, he enjoyed throwing lavish silver parties.


    the world is so large, yet in the same city, during the same time period, the chance of encountering the same type of "god" is incredibly small. therefore, qiu tu felt this was likely not a coincidence...


    ...but rather larilo, having drained all value from old master qin, decisively chose her next target...


    this was also the reason why qiu tu found the "pharmacy robbery case" tricky.


    after all, if qiu tu''s deductions and guesses were true. then... their investigative team''s enemy was probably not an ordinary person, not even a disaster sufferer, but a high order catastrophized creature that had descended upon this world, whose purpose and hiding place were unknown...


    thinking so, qiu tu also collected his thoughts and then smiled as he shook hands with cui daren, "director cui is too kind. let''s keep in touch, keep in touch..."


    ....


    with the intelligence provided by qiu tu, plus the "back road" being cut off.


    this time, old master qin finally could not hold out.


    under the intense interrogation by the security department, old master qin detailed everything he had done over the years for the united front, for larilo.


    this included, of course, evidence and dirty secrets of the 33 officials arrested by the security department.


    among these officials, some had unwittingly become accomplices of old master qin without realizing the full situation; others had knowingly stood with old master qin, providing intelligence and support to the united front...


    the purpose was to hedge bets and gain more benefits...


    with the confession and evidence provided by old master qin, the chief offender, almost all the suspects quickly confessed their crimes.


    thus... in just a few short hours, the entire "yin caimei case" progressed rapidly and was thoroughly solved!


    to avoid prolonged complications.


    in the afternoon, the security department submitted all details of the case to the sanctuary, clearly stating the outcomes: execution or life imprisonment for principal offenders like old master qin, the four major transportation merchants, bai yongkang, and other key accomplices.


    other heads of departments, directors, and accomplices, received either demotions, dismissals, or imprisonment based on the severity of their crimes...


    after receiving this report, the sanctuary was immediately shaken.


    after carefully understanding the entire case, the sanctuary agreed with the security department''s processing results and issued two commendations and one warning sanction.


    naturally, the warning sanction was for the xinjie city municipal committee.


    as the highest authority in xinjie city, the municipal committee was the institution most heavily infiltrated by the qin family and the united front, a true disgrace to xinjie city!


    and of course, the two commendations were for the investigation bureau and the security department.


    as the ones who uncovered this major case and cooperated closely to quickly root out all the individuals involved and the hidden forces behind them, the sanctuary gave a high appraisal...


    although it was just two modest written praises, to the current, turbulent upper echelons of xinjie city society, they were factors that could influence many matters...


    ....


    6 p.m.


    investigation bureau, ninth floor, large conference room.


    all nine senior members of the investigation bureau gathered here for a meeting.


    the main purpose of this meeting was twofold: to summarize the yin caimei case, and the other was... to discuss the personnel arrangements within the investigation bureau.


    several of qiu tu''s acquaintances, yan chen, tang feifei, jia shu, and secretary bai were all in attendance.


    possibly due to the formality of the occasion, everyone''s demeanor was different from when in private.


    especially tang feifei.


    in qiu tu''s presence, her smile was faint but her expression lively. discover more content at empire


    but in such a serious setting, her wheat-colored face had no expression at all, chillingly austere.


    the meeting began with secretary bai giving a brief introduction of the yin caimei case to the senior members present.


    it included the cause of the case, the process, as well as the evidence, confessions, punishment results for the related personnel, and the commendations from the sanctuary.


    among them... to highlight the investigation bureau''s role, and under yan chen''s suggestion, secretary bai mentioned key terms like "qiu tu" and "political department" numerous times.


    the senior members present were all savvy. just by listening to secretary bai''s report, they roughly understood the purpose of yan chen''s meeting and her personal stance...


    essentially, yan chen was using the sanctuary''s commendation today to build momentum for qiu tu, signaling to everyone what the upcoming personnel arrangements would look like...


    this made the senior members in attendance ponder what positions of department head within the investigation bureau were still vacant...


    after a year of filling roles and promotions, the investigation bureau still had some departments without heads, but... most were clean government offices.


    like the records department of the administrative office, or the head of the public security offices under the public security bureau, or the equipment management department of the training department, and so on...


    but, these were obviously not desirable positions...


    ----


    still 3 chapters, 10,000 words each. chapter 3 will be updated around 19:00. vote for monthly tickets! subscribe!

 Chapter 144 Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)

    especially since.... qiu tu''s previous position was the deputy chief of the political department interrogation section.as the ace department of the investigation bureau, the status of the political department is really too special. for a deputy chief of the political department to be transferred to other departments as a chief, although it can be considered a promotion, it.... can also be seen as a veiled demotion.


    after all, although this career trajectory means a higher rank, the opportunities for achievement as well as the influence over the investigation bureau and xinjie city would be greatly diminished.


    so.... being moved to those clean government offices might not necessarily be a good thing for the now thriving qiu tu.


    thinking this way, some high-level officials couldn''t help but ponder.


    ''could it be.... that they are planning to move other department chiefs to those less popular departments, to clear the way for qiu tu''s ascent?''


    no sooner had this thought arisen than it was dismissed by the high-level officials.


    after all.... such an arrangement would be too conspicuous.


    even if the investigation bureau has always been at the whim of yan chen, able to arrange personnel at will, such an unusual appointment would still attract a lot of criticism. even if there is no immediate impact on yan chen, should anything happen in the future, it would be ammunition to criticize him.


    moreover, all present were old colleagues who had worked with yan chen for one year or even many years, and had some understanding of yan chen''s cunning and shrewdness. they knew... he would not play such an ordinary hand. stay tuned with empire


    with these thoughts, some high-level officials suddenly found themselves unable to fathom what exactly yan chen was up to.


    therefore, they simply stopped overthinking and patiently waited for yan chen''s decision....


    but at this moment, yan chen did not seem to be in any hurry.


    after secretary bai had patiently explained the "yin caimei case," he looked around at everyone present, setting a tone for the "yin caimei case."


    "this case should be the biggest one handled by the xinjie city investigation bureau since its establishment."


    "it''s also one of the most serious cases in the planning area in recent years."


    his face, aged and expressionless, revealed no mood, "fortunately... the case was discovered in time and handled promptly, avoiding a major disaster."


    "otherwise, if it had really blown up, we might all have been held accountable by the sanctuary."


    "so, we must take a serious lesson from this case, striving to preempt similar cases in the future...."


    "not waiting until something actually happens, then regretting it."


    as he spoke, yan chen couldn''t help but recall his entire emotional journey that afternoon....


    actually.... when he learned that "qin heng" had confessed and the security department had cracked the case completely, yan chen was still somewhat annoyed.


    after all, the qin family was too important for him at the moment.


    with the backing of the qin family, his power could reach into city hall and various industries throughout xinjie city, and he could also draw on the qin family''s connections to gather the forces large and small within xinjie city by exploiting his proximity to power. s§×ar?h the n??efire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    just give him a year or two to digest and establish the entire network of relationships and power, and then he would become the most influential person in xinjie city, without parallel.


    the problem was that at this juncture, the qin family had been ruined by people from inside his own investigation bureau!


    to be honest, these past few days, yan chen had been filled with the urge to tear qiu tu and jia shu to pieces!


    but.... once the sanctuary sent down the case report to yan chen, his thoughts immediately made a 180-degree turn.


    what caused such a swift change in attitude was the true identity of qin heng!


    the case was so sensitive that neither the public information nor the criticism or praise from the sanctuary touched on anything related to the "evil god."


    on top of that, all the evidence and information related to the "evil god" in the case were classified, so before the case was concluded, yan chen was unaware of the specifics.


    so when he used his authority to look through the files and classified information, he was shocked to discover: qin heng was a spy for united front, and the qin family was propped up by them, which turned out to be the smallest problem with the case!


    the bigger issue was: old master qin had contacted the evil god more than twenty years ago and, in exchange for ushering in the evil god''s arrival, had possessed the bodies of his two sons, becoming the new qin heng....


    truth be told, yan chen had suspected that the qin family was somehow entangled with the evil god, but he really did not expect it to be so deep, that old master qin had played such a huge gambit.


    therefore, at that moment, yan chen''s attitude toward qiu tu really did make a 180-degree turn.


    because he knew this case would become a landmark one in the planning area in recent years, cited countless times in the future.


    thus, qiu tu must be rewarded, and he must be promoted, and.... it can''t be to a clean government office.


    only in this way could he demonstrate his firm stance....


    thinking this, yan chen''s thoughts gradually returned.


    as an old politician with rich experience in meetings, thinking outwardly while speaking bureaucratic jargon was not a difficult operation for yan chen.


    so, when he had finished reminiscing, his summary and assessment were just coming to an end.


    he took a sip of water, then leaned back in his chair, his gaze neither joyful nor sad as he looked at the high-level officials present, then he took the initiative to start today''s main agenda, "we''ve finished discussing the ''yin caimei case.''"


    "i believe everyone understands the importance of this case for the xinjie city investigation bureau!"


    "therefore, i think that those who performed exceptionally in this case should be properly adjusted in their work, taking on more responsibilities."

 Chapter 144 Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)_2

    "i wonder what everyone''s thoughts are..."upon hearing his words, the high-level officials present knew the main topic had arrived, and so they each adjusted their sitting posture slightly, ready to watch the unfolding drama.


    the first to speak was lin ting, the special duties department director.


    lin ting was a somewhat slick-looking middle-aged man and a confidant of yan chen.


    he glanced at yan chen, then looked around at the others present before speaking with a smile, "i support the bureau chief''s decision."


    "this case has had such a wide impact, scoring us so many points at the sanctuary. the investigators and officers involved, i think, should all be promoted and get a pay raise. this would also help boost the morale of the staff below."


    he paused momentarily, gauging yan chen''s intentions, then continued with a smile, "take, for example, the person primarily responsible for this case, qiu tu."


    "he handled this case all on his own, with courage and responsibility, and his ability to solve the case is also outstanding."


    "currently just a deputy staff head... i think that''s really burying his talent! why not add to his responsibilities and promote him up a level to become a section head? what do you think?"


    after speaking, lin ting looked at yan chen, and seeing no objection, he breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed back into his seat.


    secretary bai, seeing this, followed up at the right moment, "i also think qiu tu could indeed be promoted to section head, but... are there any suitable positions for qiu tu right now?"


    explore stories on empire


    with this, his gaze turned to shi youxin, the head of the investigation bureau organization department.


    shi youxin coughed once and slowly straightened up.


    he said, "there are actually quite a few vacancies for section head positions. departments like the archives section, command and coordination section, and dong district public security office all have openings."


    "i think we could transfer qiu tu to one of these departments to manage a section. it would also count as further promotion and heavy use of his talents."


    after shi youxin finished speaking, the meeting room gradually became quiet.


    these sections were exactly what the high-level attendees had been thinking of¡ªthe so-called clean government offices.


    currently unable to discern yan chen''s intentions, no one dared to speak out of turn, preferring to wait for yan chen to express his thoughts first.


    meanwhile, since entering the room, tang feifei, who hadn''t said a word until now, seemed to be in deep thought...


    it''s said that one best understands a person who is their enemy.


    the relationship between tang feifei and yan chen was no exception.


    fully aware of yan chen''s character, tang feifei knew that if yan chen desired to place qiu tu in those clean government offices, a simple command would suffice. s§×arch* the n?vel(f)ire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    a minor section head position truly wasn''t worthy of a meeting discussion.


    therefore... yan chen must have other ideas, and these ideas must be somewhat unconventional. this was why he needed to go through the motions in an open meeting.


    with these thoughts, tang feifei couldn''t help wondering what yan chen was thinking...


    could it be that yan chen wanted to transfer zheng tao, the interrogation section head, and directly promote qiu tu?


    or was yan chen prepared to move the head of another department to make room for qiu tu?


    thinking this, tang feifei felt something was off.


    if it wasn''t about making room, then...


    at this thought, tang feifei suddenly startled, probably guessing yan chen''s intentions.


    ''if that''s the case... no wonder yan chen would discuss this in a meeting.''


    ''it seems... that young man really has yan chen''s trust.''


    with these thoughts, recalling the day and night she and qiu tu had fought the day before, the traces left all over the break room, and the way qiu tu had exerted himself over her,


    tang feifei''s lips involuntarily curved into a nearly imperceptible smile.


    ''well, let me help you too.''


    with that in mind, as the room quietened down, tang feifei slowly began to speak.


    her beautiful face serious, her wheat-colored skin gleaming, "i think it''s a bit inappropriate to promote qiu tu right now, isn''t it?"


    "besides, if i remember correctly, wasn''t qiu tu just recently promoted to deputy staff head not long ago?"


    "promoting twice within a month, isn''t that a bit too exceptional?"


    "furthermore... qiu tu doesn''t really have much experience in leading work. assisting with a department''s work as a deputy is one thing,"


    "but if he''s exceptionally promoted to be the head of a department, can he truly handle it?"


    along with tang feifei''s words, the atmosphere in the meeting room suddenly became even quieter.


    seeing that she''d made her stance clear, tang feifei knew the principle of not overdoing it, so she shifted her tone and began to "pave the way" for qiu tu.


    she said, "of course, qiu tu has just cracked such a big case and received commendation from the sanctuary, so it would be wrong not to promote him."


    "thus, i believe... we could actually create a section head level instructor position in the [training department]."


    "this way, he wouldn''t have to be responsible for the main business of a department, but he could still receive more training and improve his rank."


    upon hearing tang feifei''s words, the high-level executives present didn''t say a word, but almost all of them lit up at this new perspective.


    hey, not bad! while tang feifei''s intentions might not be the best, she indeed opened up a new avenue of thought for them.


    right... promoting to section head doesn''t necessarily have to involve placement within the existing departments, positions can be created as well.


    especially now that the xinjie city investigation bureau is in its early establishment phase, it''s normal for departments to be still adjusting. adding or reducing a position is quite routine.


    only... it certainly wouldn''t be placed in the [training department]!


    everyone present were keen observers, aware of the strained relationship between tang feifei and yan chen.


    the training department was considered a lengshui yamen, a cold and marginal department, and one of the departments under tang feifei''s jurisdiction.

 Chapter 144 Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)_3

    they speculated that tang feifei wanted to place qiu tu in the [training department] for two obvious reasons.first, she wanted to sideline qiu tu, and second, she recognized his abilities and wanted to see if she could pull him into her camp under the circumstances of close proximity...


    but such calculations were far too obvious and were certainly not going to go as planned.


    thinking this, several senior executives couldn''t help but turn their eyes toward yan chen, waiting for yan chen''s stance.


    sure enough, yan chen gave tang feifei an expressionless glance, then turned to look at secretary bai, "secretary bai, what do you think of director tang''s idea?"


    before the meeting, it was clear that yan chen had already shared his thoughts with secretary bai. so when yan chen asked, secretary bai knew it was time to unveil the mystery.


    therefore, he said to tang feifei with a smile, "director tang''s idea is very interesting. it indeed opens up a new train of thought for us."


    "however... i think since qiu tu''s strength lies in solving cases, we shouldn''t waste his abilities."


    "so, if we were to create a new principal staff position, we could perfectly well add one in the political department."


    "that way, qiu tu could also continue to leverage his talents."


    as soon as secretary bai spoke, those present immediately understood this was likely yan chen''s true intent.


    ''create a new principal staff position in the political department...?''


    at this thought, everyone present couldn''t help but be impressed. they felt yan chen really had a "true love" for qiu tu.


    to create a principal staff position within a department, especially as a deputy, is simple but must fulfill a prerequisite: the department head must be at the deputy division level, so that the deputy can be at the principal section level.


    and this signifies that the department must be a trump card within the political department.


    a trump card within the trump cards, and as principal staff at that, this was indeed a significant show of favoritism!


    subsequently, the senior executives discussed which division within the political department should add the principal staff position.


    quickly, with secretary bai''s guidance, they reached a consensus: the action division.


    as the most dominant and largest division within the political department, the action division is virtually synonymous with the political department externally.


    all jurisdiction over the lower-tier investigators from the political department lies in the hands of the action division.


    whether it''s investigating cases or arresting suspects, none can bypass the action division.


    this dominance not only allowed the head of the action division to concurrently hold the position of deputy director of the political department but also warranted the establishment of four deputy division chiefs under him, all at principal staff rank.


    therefore, if a new principal staff position were to be added, this department would certainly be the best choice.


    indeed, when everyone''s discussion concluded, a slight smile finally appeared on yan chen''s face.


    his aged eyes slowly swept around the conference room, then he said in a deep voice, "serving as deputy division chief (principal staff) in the action division? indeed not bad."


    "however... the work in the action division is currently going very well, and the collaboration between the several deputy division chiefs and the chief is already very harmonious. so what tasks will qiu tu be responsible for in this arrangement?"


    upon hearing yan chen''s words, the high-ranking officials present were momentarily stunned.


    this was a meeting of the high-echelons of the investigation bureau! discussing the division of work for a principal staff?


    couldn''t this matter be privately negotiated and resolved by the political department or the action division itself?


    or was it that... yan chen had some other idea in mind?


    and as the others were puzzling over this riddle, secretary bai began speaking slowly again. s~ea??h the n?vel(f)ire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    he glanced at yan chen, then said thoughtfully, "the bureau chief makes a good point. the work of the action division is very important, and as it is currently running smoothly, change is indeed not advisable."


    pausing, he continued, "additionally, it seems that qiu tu has just recently taken over the [pharmacy robbery case], which is quite a busy assignment."


    "this case is of the utmost importance to the city hall and is also the biggest case the investigation bureau has seen in the past year."


    discover hidden stories at empire


    "previously, this case had always been handled by deputy division chief qin zhengguang of the public security bureau."


    "as far as i know, deputy division chief qin zhengguang''s main focus has been on this case lately, and his other responsibilities have only included managing a few public security offices like xiafang street and old alley street."


    "which, incidentally, are also the areas surrounding where the [pharmacy robbery case] took place."


    "now, since deputy division chief qin zhengguang... has been suspended due to his brother''s influence, these duties are temporarily without someone in charge."


    "perhaps... we could temporarily assign qiu tu to handle these areas under the title of [pharmacy robbery case investigation team]?"


    upon hearing secretary bai''s words, the entire conference room fell into... utter silence.


    even the most cunning of those present were caught off guard by yan chen''s astonishing plan!


    -----


    with these 5,000 words, plus the previous two segments of 7k, the total is 12k, haha!


    i could have broken this up into separate parts, but i considered the reading experience of you all, so i chose to write it all out in one go, which is why it''s a bit late! i ask for monthly tickets! i ask for subscriptions!


    tonight, we continue with a daily ten thousand!

 Chapter 145 Everyone Shocked by the Promotion (10,000 words plea for subscription!)

    everyone in attendance was an old fox, so the moment secretary bai''s proposal was mentioned, they immediately understood yan chen''s true arrangement for qiu tu!although it appeared that qiu tu had been promoted, in reality, he had perfectly assumed all of qin zhengguang''s scope of authority!


    then, the question arose...


    1. since qiu tu had taken over all of qin zhengguang''s responsibilities, then... should the public security bureau appoint another deputy division chief to replace qin zhengguang''s position?


    to appoint?


    then... what would this deputy division chief do?


    not to appoint?


    then... wouldn''t this position be reserved for qiu tu?


    plainly put, although yan chen only promoted qiu tu from deputy staff to principal staff, he had expanded his scope of authority to that of a deputy division chief level.


    moreover, he had even reserved the position of deputy director of the public security bureau for qiu tu, just waiting for him to establish more merit and endure the passage of time before he could be promoted directly!


    2. and what made these high-level figures deeply alarmed was: although qiu tu had taken over qin zhengguang''s authority... after all, his title was still that of deputy division chief of the political department''s action division!


    so... even though qiu tu did not manage the work of the action division, could he mobilize its personnel?


    could he take part in personnel arrangements of the action division? could he vote on important matters of the action division?


    yan chen was simply creating an incredibly terrifying "monster" that spanned two departments and was expansively augmenting his range of power without restraint.


    now, qiu tu was stirring up trouble within both the public security bureau and the political department, but who knew if he would suddenly leap over to a third department?


    once this precedent was set, who other than yan chen could limit qiu tu''s development?


    honestly, with this thought, the individuals couldn''t dare to think further on the matter.


    with these thoughts, the faces of the high-level attendees couldn''t help but look a bit unusual.


    however, since the investigation bureau was almost entirely under yan chen''s control, and most of these high-level figures were also part of yan chen''s camp, no one spoke out against it...


    at this moment, tang feifei was also stunned by yan chen''s arrangement for qiu tu. s§×arch* the ¦Çovelfire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    she felt that yan chen was truly investing a lot in qiu tu.


    no wonder such an ordinary position of section chief still needed to be discussed in a meeting. if yan chen dared to decide such a big matter privately, it would certainly arouse a lot of controversy afterwards.


    after all, even now, several high-level figures clearly held reservations about this... stay updated through empire


    thinking this, tang feifei''s expressionless face swept across the expressions of the high-level attendees in the conference room, capturing their attitudes...


    after a moment, she made up her mind.


    ''little man... you owe me a big favor this time...''


    thinking thus, tang feifei looked sharply towards secretary bai, then spoke slowly but firmly, "secretary bai, isn''t this proposal a bit too fantastical?"


    "for a deputy division chief of the action division not to work diligently within the action division, but instead to interfere with the work of the public security bureau, isn''t that a bit too much?"


    as she said this, tang feifei turned towards the public security department director, guan weihua.


    guan weihua gave an awkward smile, neither supporting nor opposing.


    being yan chen''s confidant, by neither supporting nor opposing, he was, in fact, indicating some reservations about the proposal from yan chen and secretary bai.


    seeing this, tang feifei purposefully allowed a hint of triumph to appear on her wheat-colored face, then continued, "moreover, after all, qiu tu is just a newcomer who has only handled a case or two."


    "do you all really believe he can handle the ''pharmacy robbery case''?"


    "i don''t have that much faith in him."


    as tang feifei continued her salvo, the room fell into silence.


    at that moment, the head of the special service department, lin ting, spoke up. he first glanced at yan chen, and after confirming yan chen''s intentions, he began slowly, "director tang, your words are not quite right."


    "since joining the investigation bureau, qiu tu has indeed accumulated quite a few merits."


    "repelling the attack from the united front, cracking down on master qin si''s organized crime, and just this morning, once again annihilating a united front squad¡ªthese are all merits!"


    "and moreover... the commendation from the sanctuary is the greatest recognition of him."


    "if we still don''t trust him with this, then who else is worthy of trust?"


    "besides... secretary bai didn''t want qiu tu to meddle with the matters of public security bureau. he clearly said that everything was for the sake of the case!"


    "having qiu tu temporarily handle these matters is only to better investigate the ''pharmacy robbery case'', nothing more."


    "even if we select someone now to replace qin zhengguang as deputy division chief, wouldn''t qiu tu still need to control those personnel and have those public security offices cooperate anyway?"


    "in that case, the handling of those business matters will become even more chaotic!"


    "therefore, it''s better to let qiu tu deal with those matters for now, and we can discuss it again after the case is solved!"


    honestly, lin ting''s argument was a bit of bait and switch: cooperating with the public security office and managing it were completely different things.


    he was just trying to show his loyalty to yan chen by purposely countering tang feifei''s arguments and did not actually expect to persuade her to agree with his points.


    so, after making his statement, he sat there waiting for tang feifei''s counterattack.


    but, to everyone''s surprise... after a quiet consideration, tang feifei actually conceded, "minister lin does have a point."


    "i don''t have any objections for the time being."


    having said that, tang feifei leaned back in her chair and remained silent.


    tang feifei''s sudden concession almost caused all the high-level officials present to throw out their backs.


    nobody had expected tang feifei to launch a fiery attack only to retreat halfway through the battle?

 Chapter 145 The Crowd Shocked by the Promotion (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscriptions!)_2

    the problem was, this led to a very bizarre situation, yan chen''s opposition, tang feifei, had agreed to the matter, so what about his group of confidants, did they agree or not?for a moment, several of the upper echelons were a bit baffled. they also became unclear about tang feifei''s tactics.


    had she really been persuaded by lin ting? did she realize the task was impossible and draw back? or... did she have some other scheme?


    because key information was missing, they of course couldn''t guess that tang feifei was actually on qiu tu''s side, coordinating with yan chen and secretary bai....


    this turn of events also made yan chen take another look at tang feifei, with a flicker of hesitation flashing through his eyes....


    but no matter whether yan chen was hesitant or not, once tang feifei, the opposition, had given in, the tone of the entire meeting was thoroughly set.


    unless someone saw themselves as yet another enemy of yan chen, it was unlikely for anyone present to cast an opposing or noncommittal vote.


    therefore, qiu tu''s somewhat exaggerated appointment was unanimously passed in a strange atmosphere.


    throughout the entire meeting, yan chen had hardly spoken or expressed any stance. with a single glance, a single question, he had the direction of the entire meeting in his grasp.


    with this, qiu tu''s appointment officially took effect.


    however, after the meeting was dismissed, aside from wondering about yan chen''s favoritism towards qiu tu, the upper echelons were more curious about what tang feifei was really up to.


    possibly sensing the upper echelons'' curiosity, tang feifei deliberately said with a smile as the meeting adjourned, "i hope everyone''s judgment is correct."


    "if... the [pharmacy robbery case] isn''t solved by the deadline, don''t blame me for speaking harshly."


    having said that, tang feifei strode away with her long, shapely legs, leaving the conference room like a pantheress.


    shocked by her "harsh words," the upper echelons were stunned for a moment, then "understood" tang feifei''s thoughts....


    ''is she thinking of setting up qiu tu for failure? first elevate qiu tu and then, when he fails to crack the case, confront the bureau chief?''


    though the reasoning was somewhat far-fetched, it was... at least plausible.


    therefore, the upper echelons didn''t think too much of it.


    among them, perhaps only secretary bai, watching tang feifei''s retreating figure, furrowed his brows, feeling something was amiss....


    because... her behavior felt... eerily similar to his own?


    ever since he had a falling out with qiu tu, he frequently criticized qiu tu in front of yan chen, but in reality, he spoke in favor of qiu tu indirectly....


    and tang feifei seemed to be doing the same....


    ''it must be an overthought.''


    ''how could qiu tu possibly join forces with her....''


    thinking this, secretary bai shook his head and left the conference room with a "gloomy face." sear?h the n??el fire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ¡ª now, he had "a bone to pick" with the "ungrateful" qiu tu. the only reason he had been advocating for qiu tu all day was because of yan chen''s arrangements. he shouldn''t be happy about qiu tu''s promotion!


    and as the upper echelons left one by one, the ripple effects of the meeting continued to spread through the night....


    .....


    interrogation section. "yin caimei case" investigation team.


    because the case had been successfully concluded, the members of the investigation team were staying late, quietly packing up their things.


    possibly because they had grown accustomed to working with qiu tu and to his leadership, everyone present felt a bit reluctant to part.


    cao dabiao held on to qiu tu''s arm, theatrically expressing, "chief! we truly can''t bear to leave you."


    "life in the action division is no fun compared to being by your side."


    "will you continue to take us with you to your new investigation team?"


    seeing that cao dabiao was playing around, qiu tu laughed and kicked him in the butt, "get lost! i''m sick of seeing you these days!"


    "keep you with me? dream on!"


    at that moment, liu fuping also sashayed over.


    she slapped cao dabiao''s hand off qiu tu and looped her own arm through his. then, with a look of contempt, she said to cao dabiao, "stop trying to seduce our chief qiu. i''ll have you know, he belongs to our interrogation section."


    "and besides, with all the big and burly men in the action division, how could they be as cute as the delicate girls from the interrogation section?"


    as she spoke, liu fuping turned to seek backup from song qing, who was enjoying the spectacle, "right, qingqing?"


    upon hearing liu fuping''s words, song qing chuckled and patted wang xi on the shoulder, saying, "of course."


    wang xi smirked and echoed the two women''s sentiment.


    but when the agents from the action division heard liu fuping''s words, they instantly felt a bit "unconvinced."


    since everyone got along well during this time, they didn''t hesitate to joke back, "how did the action division end up with just a bunch of old men?"


    "we have a lot of secretary girls too, okay!"


    "besides, how can you assume the bureau chief isn''t interested in men?!"


    "if the bureau chief needs... we wouldn''t mind sacrificing ourselves!"


    "ho ho ho ho!" at these audacious words, liu fuping and song qing laughed so hard they couldn''t straighten their backs.


    liu fuping was all but clinging to qiu tu, rubbing against him.


    irritated by the rubbing, qiu tu leaned over and whispered in her ear, "if you don''t get up, i might just have to... rise."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, liu fuping''s pretty face blushed. she seductively glanced at qiu tu, leaned to his ear, and whispered back, "well, why don''t you rise then... stop just firing blanks."


    ''hiss!''


    the mention of firing blanks made qiu tu recall the vision of liu fuping kneeling before him, her lips a fiery red.


    at that thought, he licked his lips and whispered back, "if i were to rise, then you... wouldn''t be able to get up."


    listening to qiu tu''s unabashed flirtation, liu fuping''s laughter made her eyes curve into rainbows.


    she discreetly pinched qiu tu, her tone more flirtatious than annoyed as she said, "you''re going to be the death of me!"


    and just as everyone was teasing and bickering,


    suddenly, the door to the investigation bureau''s temporary office was knocked on loudly from the outside.


    soon after, an agent with a beaming smile opened the office door, then respectfully said, "is chief qiu here?"


    upon hearing the agent''s words, the temporary office gradually quieted down, and everyone looked at each other, a bit unclear about whom the person was looking for.


    eventually, it was liu fuping, who was wrapped around qiu tu, who took the initiative to speak up. her attractive eyes fixed on the agent, she parted her lips and said, "chief qiu? which chief qiu? we only have chief qiu tu here."


    hearing liu fuping''s words, the agent hurriedly said with a look of delight, "yes, that''s right, i''m looking for chief qiu tu."


    upon hearing the agent''s words, the office fell silent once more.


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    everyone''s mind was racing.


    wait a minute, the investigation bureau is a disciplined force where every title, every rank is meticulously adhered to, and one cannot be casual with these terms.


    the person had called out qiu tu''s name, but continued to refer to him as chief...


    so...


    did the bureau chief get promoted again?


    for a moment, everyone was a bit shocked.


    and... chief?!


    wasn''t the bureau chief just a deputy staff head before? how could he have been promoted to bureau chief?


    suddenly, it felt like the cpus of everyone present were overheating.


    so, whether it was liu fuping, song qing, cao dabiao, chen feng, ding xiaoliu, wang xi, everyone''s gaze incessantly flicked toward qiu tu, wanting to see his reaction.


    and to figure out... just what position qiu tu had been promoted to.


    ------


    still 3 chapters of 10,000 words, haha. chapter 3 will update around 19:00. begging for the bare minimum monthly tickets!

 Chapter 146 You Are Being Watched by the Evil God (Please Subscribe for 10,000 Characters!)

    at this time, qiu tu was also a bit surprised.although he had guessed that yan chen would definitely give him a promotion and raise after the "yin caimei case" settled down,


    he didn''t expect it so soon, and secondly... he didn''t expect such a big leap.


    of course, he did not think that yan chen would promote him directly to deputy division chief, but... a few days earlier, he had simply listed a few possible directions for his promotion.


    among them, the most likely one to be associated with the word "deputy division chief" was the position of deputy chief of the action division.


    and thinking about the power and prestige that position represented, qiu tu couldn''t help but feel a bit excited...


    ''is old yan really so supportive? it looks like... i really underestimated him!''


    thinking this way, although qiu tu was excited inside, he maintained a calm demeanor and said to the agent at the door, "i am qiu tu. is there something you need?"


    hearing qiu tu''s words, the agent smiled and said, "minister shi from the organizational department has requested to see you."


    upon hearing this, qiu tu gave a faint "hmm," then stood up and followed the agent out of the temporary office.


    after qiu tu left, the investigation team''s temporary office was quiet for a few seconds before suddenly erupting.


    qiu tu''s subordinates were all excited, whether it was cao dabiao or ding xiaoliu, even song qing was frantically discussing, "deputy division chief? has the boss been promoted again?"


    "which division''s deputy chief? it can''t possibly be a two-level jump, right? so, which is it?"


    after discussing for a while, several people with well-connected sources went out to gather information.


    in government departments, there are never any secrets: especially regarding promotions.


    so, it wasn''t long before qiu tu''s exaggerated appointment appeared before all members of the investigation team:


    at the principal section level, the position of deputy chief of the action division, but with jurisdiction that was previously under the control of former deputy chief qin zhengguang...


    this exaggeration and thought-provoking appointment left qiu tu''s subordinates somewhat silenced.


    after a long time, it was the fearless and somewhat naive song qing who was the first to speak.


    she tilted her head, curiously saying, "why do i feel... that he''s really a deputy division chief now?"


    her words almost also reflected everyone''s thoughts.


    so, chen feng remained silent, cao dabiao and ding xiaoliu exchanged glances.


    and... liu fuping also supported her cheek, her face flushed, her eyes flickering, seemingly lost in thought...


    not only were they all shocked by this appointment, but even qiu tu, who was accepting his position in the organizational department, was somewhat stunned upon learning his real appointment...


    at that moment, he even doubted whether he had somehow bewitched the higher-ups of the investigation bureau.


    how did yan chen think of such an exaggerated promotion?


    and how did those high-level officials approve it?


    qiu tu found it puzzling... s§×arch* the ¦Çovelfire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    the trip to the organizational department was just a formality.


    asking about the situation, checking the archives, informing him of the new appointment, changing his epaulettes...


    by the time the entire process was finished, it was already 9 p.m.


    because his file was still at the political department, there was no need to change qiu tu''s uniform, saving him quite a bit of effort.


    after completing the whole process, qiu tu''s heart was pounding as he left the organizational department, barely able to contain the joy on his face!


    after leaving the organizational department, qiu tu stood quietly by the window in the corridor on the 8th floor for a while. looking out at the dark xinjie city, the dark world, qiu tu knew that this was only the beginning of his career, not the end...


    after taking a few deep breaths to calm his excited emotions, qiu tu thought for a moment and decided to return to the temporary office of the investigation team first.


    although he had been promoted, there were still some loose ends to tie up with the "yin caimei case".


    like filing the evidence and clues, like transferring the prisoners, like releasing bai ru...


    after investigating for several days, neither the security department nor qiu tu found any illegal or criminal conduct on the part of this woman.


    but tragically... her father and husband were both major accomplices in the case, one sentenced to death, the other to life imprisonment.


    so, qiu tu also needed to properly console this young widow...


    otherwise, he really feared she wouldn''t be able to cope...


    ...


    upon arriving at the temporary office and just opening the door, there was a loud "bang!" as firecrackers went off!


    countless streamers exploded in the air, cao dabiao, ding xiaoliu, and others laughed heartily as they pounced over and hugged qiu tu, then chattered with congratulatory words.


    qiu tu''s transfer to deputy chief of the action division brought the most joy to them.


    after all, this meant that qiu tu had become their immediate superior, and their future prospects were quite evident.


    in contrast, the attitudes of liu fuping, song qing, and wang xi were each different.


    as a spy, liu fuping didn''t care in which department qiu tu held a position. in fact, the higher qiu tu rose, the happier she was.


    so she sat on the desk with her perky behind, arms crossed over her chest, smiling as she watched everyone frolic.


    whereas song qing felt a bit displeased. after all, finding a boss like qiu tu who was kindred in spirit and also liked to slouch off work was extremely rare.


    with qiu tu gone, she dreaded to think how difficult her future days in the interrogation section would be...


    as for wang xi...


    to be honest, he was the one with the most complicated feelings among everyone.


    because, along with qiu tu''s promotion, another piece of news also came to everyone''s knowledge.


    that was the appointment of qiu tu as the head of the investigation team for the "8.16 pharmacy robbery case"...


    others didn''t know what this case was really about, but wang xi did. after all... he was one of the two criminals.


    and what''s more troubling is... during this time, wang xi had already witnessed the various marvels of qiu tu.


    be it solving cases with seemingly prophetic insight, or crafting and planning with uncanny precision, all made him realize how terrifying qiu tu was...


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    therefore, he was genuinely a bit worried that qiu tu might indeed solve the case and catch him...


    with this thought, the faint light in his eyes began to flicker incessantly as if it had a life of its own...


    meanwhile, as his mind fluctuated, at the same time, a slew of prompts suddenly popped up in front of qiu tu, who was surrounded by the crowd.


    ''crisis intuition triggered! crisis report generated!''


    ''warning! due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the evil god larilo!''


    ''warning! due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the evil god larilo!''


    ''warning! due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the evil god larilo!''


    the plain three prompts, without any additional remarks, were even more chilling than all the crisis warnings!


    and what''s worse was, a slowly appearing hourglass without a specific countdown appeared in the upper left of qiu tu''s sight.


    where you would normally see the time, it now displayed "¡Þ".


    ''is this... infinity?''


    seeing the new crisis warning and a symbol for time on the countdown hourglass that was completely different, qiu tu was a bit stunned.


    he continued to laugh and celebrate with everyone while his brain was swiftly turning, pondering the information revealed by this crisis intuition...


    the triggering of [crisis intuition] proved that the evil god''s gaze could indeed pose a threat to his life.


    but... the "crisis report" without any prompts and the "positive infinity" symbol seemed to suggest something else.


    is it that golden finger is unable to analyze the threat of the evil god, or is it that... although this gaze might be deadly, it won''t affect me for now?


    because the information was a bit too scant, qiu tu was temporarily confused by the message conveyed by this [crisis warning]...


    however, what he could understand was... that it must have been wang xi who triggered all this.


    ''it seems my taking charge of the investigation into the [pharmacy robbery case] has spooked wang xi, leading him to be terrified and thus attracting the attention of the evil god.''


    with this thought, qiu tu''s mind made a slight turn. taking advantage of the harmonious atmosphere, he also spoke with a laugh, "it seems everyone knows about my promotion."


    "rest assured, i won''t take all the credit for myself. once i get settled, i''ll figure out a way to help everyone get a promotion too!"


    hearing qiu tu''s words, the atmosphere on the scene immediately became even more fervent.


    at that moment, qiu tu also took the opportunity to say, "besides, i believe everyone also knows, the bureau chief and minister have assigned me a new case, which is the [8.16 pharmacy robbery case]."


    "although there is already an investigation team for that case... after all, i have a good rapport with everyone, so i thought about bringing everyone over to continue investigating the case."


    "what do you all think?"


    as he spoke, qiu tu called out a few names, "big biao, you wouldn''t refuse to come, right?"


    cao dabiao chuckled with a sly grin, "how could i refuse! if the boss calls me, i''ll definitely go!"


    qiu tu laughed and patted his shoulder before looking at chen feng, "and you, chen feng?"


    chen feng''s usually expressionless face unexpectedly revealed a smile, "i obey the commands of my superior!"


    qiu tu turned to liu fuping with a smile, "and sister liu...?"


    liu fuping rolled her eyes coquettishly at qiu tu, "even if you didn''t call me, i''d cling on and go anyway."


    by now, without qiu tu naming anyone, the young girl song qing excitedly jumped out with wang xi, "boss! us! we want to go too!"


    dragged out by song qing, wang xi clearly showed reluctance, but under everyone''s gaze, he could only grin awkwardly, "right, boss, me and us..."


    seeing this, qiu tu gave them a meaningful smile, "since you''re so eager, then... of course, i won''t disappoint you. you two, added to the investigation team!"


    suddenly, wang xi felt a jolt in his heart, always feeling as if... qiu tu seemed to know something.


    and just when the office was bustling like a joyous sea...


    "buzz buzz¡ª" liu fuping''s communicator in her pocket vibrated softly twice: someone had sent a text message.


    liu fuping smiled as she withdrew her gaze from the jubilant atmosphere in the office and took out the communicator to check.


    but at a simple glance, her eyes lit up slightly. because... the text was from tang feifei.


    ''could it be that director tang has finally remembered to contact me?''


    thinking this, liu fuping opened the message with anticipation.


    however, there was just a simple sentence: please arrange a meeting with qiu tu for me. i would like to invite him to dinner at my villa tonight...


    liu fuping: ??


    ------


    still three chapters with 10,000 words each. the third chapter will be updated around 19:00. it''s the 15th, support for the monthly ticket needed!

 Chapter 147 Sister Liu, Lets Get Together Tonight (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    looking at the content of tang feifei''s message, liu fuping truly felt a bunch of question marks popping up over her head.ever since yesterday, tang feifei''s attitude towards liu fuping had turned somewhat cold.


    no matter if liu fuping took the initiative to contact tang feifei or quietly sought her out during break times, she was always turned away with the excuse of "being a bit busy."


    to tell the truth, liu fuping really couldn''t understand what had happened.


    how could a woman''s mood change so drastically overnight?


    she initially thought the situation was bizarre enough, but now... tang feifei was taking the initiative to send her a message, and it was to arrange a meeting with qiu tu?


    this really shattered liu fuping''s worldview!


    they hadn''t even reconciled yet! why would she have her relay a message?


    and... such a strange message, at that!


    relaying a message for a man to go see one''s "girlfriend" late at night? this... it''s weird no matter how you think about it!


    it was just like a cuckolded husband helping his wife find her mistress!


    perhaps because she was too agitated, liu fuping''s bosom heaved dramatically...


    ''don''t get too excited... don''t get too excited... there must be some misunderstanding.''


    after taking a few deep breaths, liu fuping forced herself to calm down and began to rethink this whole thing from a different angle.


    she felt... she might have misunderstood qiu tu and tang feifei''s relationship.


    qiu tu had previously collaborated with tang feifei, and they had been secretly forming an alliance against yan chen.


    with qiu tu''s promotion, it was very likely tang feifei wanted to deepen their partnership.


    it was not the dirty things she had been imagining!


    with this in mind, liu fuping hurriedly repeated to herself, ''don''t overthink it, don''t overthink it...''


    then, she once again put on a seductively confident smile on her face...


    but if one looked closely at her expression, they could still see the worry in the depths of her eyes...


    .....


    cao dabiao and the others didn''t make a fuss for too long, and after celebrating with qiu tu for a while, they left work.


    although qiu tu had been promoted, he had also promised to take them to the new investigative team; they would see each other often, so there was no need to act as if it were a farewell to the death.


    after everyone else had left, liu fuping seized the opportunity and sauntered forward, handing the communicator to qiu tu.


    "director tang wants to see you tonight."


    at that moment, qiu tu was browsing through bai ru''s information.


    when a communicator suddenly appeared in front of him, he instinctively looked up.


    perhaps because it was just qiu tu and liu fuping left in the office, liu fuping seemed even more enchanting.


    she had touched up her makeup at some point, with flaming red lips that looked both promiscuous and captivating.


    qiu tu gave her a peculiar look, then took the communicator and read tang feifei''s message.


    after reading the message, he hesitated for a moment and said, "i can go to her tonight, but... it might be quite late."


    at this, qiu tu patted the information about bai ru in his hands, "you understand. section chief bai... needs some soothing."


    hearing qiu tu''s words, liu fuping chuckled behind her hand. she thought qiu tu indeed needed to appease bai ru properly.


    not only did he touch her, kiss her, wring out intelligence from her mouth, he also used that intelligence to get her father killed and her husband locked up.


    if she were bai ru, she probably would want to stab qiu tu in the heart.


    thinking this, liu fuping took the communicator in hand and turned around, saying, "alright, then i''ll talk with director tang to see if she will wait for you or change the time."


    qiu tu "hmmed" in response and then watched this beautiful young woman leave the office.


    it cannot be denied that liu fuping, since her awakening last time, truly became more and more alluring.


    it was a simple turning motion, but she deliberately fluttered her peachy eyes at qiu tu. and upon leaving, she also cleverly tiptoed.


    this posture accentuated a woman''s curves from behind, not only making her legs appear longer but also making her buttocks look perkier...


    ''this temptress... really is... tsk...''


    qiu tu inexplicably felt a twinge of envy towards tang feifei.


    as he thought this, qiu tu went back to focusing on tying up the loose ends of the case.


    10 minutes later, liu fuping sashayed back in and then plonked herself down on qiu tu''s desk.


    qiu tu was reviewing documents, and reflexively stretched out his hand to give liu fuping''s buttocks a firm slap, "stop it."


    liu fuping winced in pain, but she bit her red lip and didn''t move away.


    she leaned over to look at qiu tu, her eyes brimming with suggestive allure, "boss, it seems like you''re... taking advantage of me."


    qiu tu, upon hearing this, laughed. s§×arch* the n??el fire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    he looked up to see liu fuping bending over in front of him, her deep cleavage almost spilling out,


    "is that so? should i return the favor then?"


    "and let you slap me a couple of times?"


    "giggle giggle giggle." at qiu tu''s words, liu fuping giggled, her chest undulating in waves that almost touched qiu tu''s face.


    seeing this, qiu tu''s heart swayed, and he remembered the ''facial treatment service'' he had experienced the previous week.


    he wondered how amazing it would be if liu fuping learned to do it for him.


    as a result, before qiu tu''s reveries could come to an end, liu fuping kicked out her right leg and turned to face qiu tu with a pivot on her buttocks, presenting herself in a straddled position in front of him.


    she gently lifted her leg onto qiu tu''s shoulder, leaned back, and then looked at qiu tu with a suggestive face, whispering, "sir~~~ what do you think of me?"


    "hiss..."


    today, qiu tu was truly taken aback by liu fuping.


    it seemed like ever since she was humiliated by tang feifei, the woman had gone completely mad. but.... she had also become even more seductive.


    with that thought, qiu tu grabbed liu fuping''s slender leg, caressing it while locking eyes with her, "i think.... you''re quite impressive."


    liu fuping didn''t mind qiu tu''s little action. smiling, she asked, "and...what about director tang? how is she?"


    qiu tu''s psychological fortitude was not to be underestimated. faced with liu fuping, the "sufferer," his mood didn''t waver at all. find more chapters on empire


    he said with a smile, "not bad either...."


    liu fuping wanted to continue asking.


    but just then, qiu tu, stroking his chin and looking wistful, added, "if i could have both of you together....hiss...."


    "are you trying to kill me!" liu fuping was truly both irritated and amused by qiu tu.


    she had just gone outside to make a phone call with tang feifei. she told tang feifei that qiu tu might come over very late.


    tang feifei seemed fairly normal, even taking the time to explain to liu fuping that her meeting with qiu tu tonight was for urgent matters to discuss.


    so no matter how late it was, she would wait for qiu tu.


    but liu fuping, who was very familiar with tang feifei''s tone and attitude, still keenly sensed tang feifei''s slightly unusual demeanor towards qiu tu....


    and remembering how qiu tu had also disappeared for a day yesterday, liu fuping suspected that something had happened between the two of them, which was why she had come to test qiu tu.


    little did she expect that not only was qiu tu entertaining thoughts about tang feifei, he was even contemplating a double strike!


    he was simply shameless to the core!


    thinking of qiu tu''s "annoying" demeanor, liu fuping didn''t feel like continuing the game with qiu tu. she snorted, annoyed, kicked qiu tu, said "director tang said she will wait no matter how late," and jumped off the table to leave.


    upon seeing this, qiu tu was not upset. watching liu fuping''s voluptuous figure, he said with a laugh, "don''t go, sister liu. let''s hang out together tonight."


    hearing qiu tu''s shameless words, liu fuping stumbled, biting her lip in embarrassment and resentment as she turned around to glare at qiu tu.


    ''what a hooligan!''


    however, even though she inwardly cursed qiu tu, liu fuping, who had exited the office, began to feel a little odd in the calm aftermath.


    as a spy, especially one who was beautiful, had a good figure, and whose husband had died, liu fuping had almost maxed out all the possible gossip buffs.


    and to gather intelligence, she occasionally "fished" for adorers from a distance, just like fishing.


    but actually... she didn''t like either the rumors or this kind of fishing.


    moreover, if someone behaved inappropriately during this process, she would despise and interrupt it without hesitation.


    only... with qiu tu.


    the two had shared an event that still made her blush and become flustered at the thought, and now, their behavior and words were becoming more and more suggestive.


    this really left her confused...


    and moreover.... for some reason, every time liu fuping saw qiu tu now, she would feel incredibly grounded. furthermore, whatever qiu tu asked her to do, she would do so without second thought.


    this trust.... even exceeded her limits.


    such a realization only made her more perplexed.


    ''what.... exactly is happening to me?''


    walking down the dimly lit corridor, liu fuping''s eyes were filled with bewilderment.


    if qiu tu knew liu fuping''s current thoughts and feelings, he probably wouldn''t be surprised.


    because.... from his perspective, after this morning''s desperate gun battle, liu fuping''s loyalty to him had officially broken through the 80 mark!


    a subordinate who reached this level of loyalty has been completely conquered by qiu tu''s personal charm. to a certain extent, qiu tu''s orders could even outweigh those of her actual superiors.


    and the reason liu fuping was still confused was simply because such a choice had not been presented to her directly, preventing her from recognizing her own feelings clearly....


    a catalyst was needed for her to understand her heart properly...


    and at that moment, as liu fuping grappled with understanding her true feelings,


    suddenly, a voice that was partly mocking echoed from behind her in the darkness, "agent liu."


    hearing that voice, liu fuping shuddered. for some reason, she had a bad premonition.


    she slowly turned around to see jia shu standing behind her, almost entirely in the shadows, "section chief?"


    that said, she quickly saluted.


    jia shu, hidden in the dark with eyes glowing crimson, looked deeply at liu fuping, his face behind gold-rimmed glasses filled with a feigned smile, "do you have time to chat? i have some questions that i''ve wanted to ask you for a while."


    hearing jia shu''s words, liu fuping felt even more ominous dread. she hesitated for a moment and asked tentatively, "section chief... it''s after hours. could we talk about it tomorrow?"


    jia shu''s smile was particularly sinister, "do you think if we don''t clear this up today, you''ll still have a tomorrow? miss liu of the eastern city investigation bureau political department...."


    at that moment, liu fuping felt like she had been doused in cold water. she had the chilling feeling of falling into an ice cellar!


    -----


    it''s still 3 chapters totaling 10,000 words! some of the earlier chapters might have been rule-violating and were warned, so i went back and made some modifications.


    it feels like our book is being watched... cherish it while you can, everyone. cast more votes, keep following, or even turn on auto-subscribe.


    if our performance is good, the review team might relax a bit, thanks for the support!


    we''ll continue with 10,000 words tonight!

 Chapter 148 After Promotion, Everyone Around is Nice (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    as the minister of the political department, jia shu was a figure that could stop children from crying throughout xinjie city.despite always wearing a pair of gold-framed glasses and appearing cultured, courteous, and gentle, only those who had truly encountered him knew how cruel and bloody his methods were.


    unfortunately... liu fuping was precisely one of those who had encountered him.


    as one of the earliest agents to join the political department, liu fuping had learned various techniques directly from jia shu, from interrogation skills to the torture of prisoners, and even to human dissection.


    therefore, as his semi-disciple, she knew better than anyone the cold-bloodedness and cruelty of jia shu, and the terror he inspired.


    thus, when jia shu exposed liu fuping''s identity, her face turned deathly pale, her body stiffened, and she didn''t even have the courage to muster any rebuttal.


    ¡ªbecause she knew, once jia shu found her, he was already 100% certain of her identity.


    hence, as if her soul had been stolen, her eyes were lifeless, and she rigidly walked towards jia shu like a walking corpse.


    under the dim light of the corridor, jia shu, with half of his body shrouded in darkness, revealed a smile that was neither a smile nor a laugh. looking at liu fuping, he praised, "that''s my proud student."


    "knowing not to make futile efforts..."


    in the darkness, he seemed particularly sinister and terrifying.


    after he finished speaking, he did not glance at liu fuping again. humming a tune, his face broke into a slightly mad smile, hands in his pockets, he strode towards his office first.


    watching his scholarly figure walk away, liu fuping clenched her teeth, her knuckles turning somewhat white.


    but she really didn''t dare to run away, so she could only silently and stiffly follow jia shu forward.


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    however... just as they were about to approach the door of the investigation bureau, her left hand moved slightly, her thumb quietly sliding a ring off her index finger.


    and when the ring was about to touch the ground, she gently nudged it with her foot, avoiding direct contact with the floor.


    so the ring landed quietly at the door of the investigation bureau office.


    seeing this, liu fuping felt a slight relief in her heart.


    although she didn''t know if qiu tu would find the ring; even if qiu tu found it, she didn''t know if it would lead him to her; and even if he did find her, she didn''t know if he could save her from jia shu.


    but... perhaps due to the trust in qiu tu, or perhaps wanting to grab onto the last straw, she still did it...


    ''qiu tu... it''s all up to you now.''


    thinking this, liu fuping slowly walked through the corridor with a ghastly pale face and entered jia shu''s office.


    what she didn''t know was, at the moment she stepped into jia shu''s office, that very corridor where she and jia shu had stood opposite each other had the pervasive shadows twist like living creatures gone mad.


    in an instant, a serpent-like shadow silently slid across the ground, then picked up liu fuping''s ring and returned to the darkness...


    the darkness was spreading, and in jia shu''s office, a ring slowly appeared in his hand...


    ...


    qiu tu actually quite enjoyed the solitude of his own nighttime.


    the tranquility of the night always made him feel a deep sense of peace, even his work efficiency seemed much higher.


    after spending about fifteen minutes to archive all the materials of the "yin caimei case," qiu tu put away the files into the drawer and then prepared to look for bai ru.


    just as he was leaving the office, he ran into his former superior, chief zheng tao of the interrogation section. sea??h th§× n?vel(f)ire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    seeing qiu tu, zheng tao''s expression was noticeably unnatural.


    today, the news of qiu tu''s startling promotion had spread throughout the investigation bureau. even those most politically naive knew that qiu tu was on the rise.


    so, despite his reluctance and envy, zheng tao still didn''t want to offend qiu tu, the new political star of the investigation bureau¡ªespecially since the two had had conflicts before.


    therefore, he awkwardly and insincerely greeted, "chief qiu, are you leaving work?"


    after greeting him, zheng tao didn''t expect to hear anything pleasant.


    after all, qiu tu had never respected him as a boss when he was his subordinate. now that he had been promoted and was above him, he surely wouldn''t give him any face.


    to his surprise, qiu tu actually smiled at him and said warmly, "yes, chief zheng. are you just finished with work too?"


    this rare show of goodwill from qiu tu caught zheng tao off guard. his usually stern face couldn''t help but show a trace of surprise.


    he nodded hastily, chuckling, "yes, just finished. it gets so busy every day."


    qiu tu nodded earnestly, saying, "i understand, i understand. after all, it''s only because you work so hard that our interrogation section is the most efficient department in the political department."


    at that moment, zheng tao was even more shocked.


    honestly, if it weren''t for the fact that assaulting a superior in the political department was a crime, he would have loved to crack open qiu tu''s skull to see what was going on inside!


    could a promotion really enlighten someone?!


    if qiu tu knew what zheng tao was thinking, he would probably just say "you''re overthinking it."


    the reason why he had always been at odds with zheng tao was because... zheng tao was his boss and had always made him work overtime!


    not fighting back against a boss who exploited you would only make one miserable, right?


    now... zheng tao was no longer his boss. so whether zheng tao was unreasonable or not didn''t concern him anymore. why then would he still need to be hostile towards zheng tao?

 Chapter 148 After Promotion, Everyone Around is Nice (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    "in this world, there aren''t so many relationships of enmity, it''s just a matter of different statuses.""didn''t you see that with qiu tu''s promotion, zheng tao had to take the initiative to maintain relations with him?"


    thinking this way, qiu tu exchanged simple pleasantries with zheng tao before heading to the guard room at the political department under zheng tao''s smile-filled farewell.


    upon arriving at the guard room, qiu tu handed over the signed release documents to the on-duty investigator and was then led by that investigator to bai ru''s cell.


    after all, bai ru was a section chief at the city hall and also a woman, so she was housed in a small single cell.


    when they arrived at bai ru''s cell, the investigator immediately unlocked the door with a key, then gave qiu tu a sheepish salute and said, "chief qiu, my name is wang dawei, i''m a second-class investigator at the political department."


    "if you need anything in the future, you can come to me at any time."


    upon hearing this, qiu tu looked deeply at the investigator and then nodded.


    as qiu tu had become the deputy division chief of the action division, his status in the investigation bureau could be said to have shot up drastically. things like zheng tao''s overture of friendship and wang dawei''s covert allegiance were only going to become more frequent.


    in the face of these people, qiu tu wouldn''t fully accept them but neither would he outright reject them.


    he needed brothers he could trust with his life, like ah-tai and eagle; he needed confidants, and loyal supporters like cao dabiao and chen feng; and he also needed pawns like wang dawei who could be useful when necessary...


    it seemed that a guard room investigator like wang dawei wasn''t very useful, but with more people like him, it would make any endeavor qiu tu undertook incredibly convenient in the future.


    with that in mind, qiu tu patted wang dawei on the shoulder with a smile, "good. i''ll remember you."


    wang dawei''s face immediately showed delight as he hastily gave qiu tu another salute.


    pushing open the door of the cell, bai ru was sitting in front of a table, lost in thought with her chin propped up on her hands.


    the fragile woman seemed to have guessed the fate of her father and husband, so her eyes were filled with sorrow, which was heartbreaking to behold.


    since bai ru was confirmed not to be a criminal, qiu tu did not manhandle her but instead gave her ample respect.


    he pulled out another chair, sat down, and quietly kept bai ru company by her side.


    perhaps noticing that the door to the cell had not been closed, or sensing something different about qiu tu compared to other days, bai ru looked up timidly, glanced at qiu tu, and ventured to ask, "is... has there been a result for the case?"


    upon hearing this, qiu tu responded in a somber tone, "hmm."


    bai ru swallowed nervously and with trembling hands, gently grabbed qiu tu''s arm, looking at him with a pleading gaze.


    qiu tu understood bai ru''s meaning: she simply wanted a positive outcome from his mouth. sea??h th§× ¦Çovelfire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    but qiu tu also knew that even if he lied to bai ru now, she would still find out the truth after leaving the cell.


    so he let out a slight sigh and slowly shook his head.


    at that moment, bai ru''s eyes instantly reddened, and tears began to fall drop by drop.


    this indeed was a woman who had been pampered since childhood, had not suffered much hardship, delicate like a tender flower, unable to withstand the trial of any storm...


    seeing this, qiu tu quietly explained, "your father, director bai, despite knowing that old master qin was colluding with the evil god, still facilitated old master qin''s various actions. therefore, he has been convicted of ''crimes against humanity'' and sentenced to death."


    "your husband, qian dafu, while having collusive dealings with the anti-government armed forces, continued to assist the qin family in cooperation with the anti-government armed forces and even actively collaborated with them. therefore, he has been convicted of ''treason'' and sentenced to life imprisonment."


    hearing qiu tu disclose the fates of her two closest family members, bai ru could no longer hold back her tears and burst into loud sobbing.


    seeing this, qiu tu sighed, handed her a tissue, and gently patted bai ru''s frail back.


    the "inner protector" might indeed be incredibly fragile; bai ru continued to cry for more than ten minutes before slowly stopping her tears with qiu tu''s comfort.


    even so, her face was tear-streaked, her eyes red and swollen. however, her tearful appearance made her look even more pitiful and endearing.


    she was a woman whose appearance might only be considered fine, but her temperament was indeed strikingly memorable.


    so there he stayed, accompanying and comforting bai ru for more than ten minutes.


    when bai ru''s emotions had stabilized, qiu tu then led her out of the cell.


    taking the elevator to the lobby on the first floor of the investigation bureau office building, he escorted bai ru to the entrance of the building.


    looking at the pitch-black night, qiu tu stood firm, left her with his communicator number, and cautioned, "section chief bai, i will only see you off this far and will not continue. the situation in xinjie city is a bit chaotic right now."


    "many gang members or evil god cultists are on the move."


    "so... if there''s anything, you can call me. as long as i have time, i will definitely come over to help."


    upon hearing this, bai ru lowered her head, clutching the communicator in her hand, with no clue whether she was really listening.


    after a moment, she slowly nodded her head, then with a pale face, she walked towards the darkness...


    watching bai ru''s bowed figure walking away, the gentle smile on qiu tu''s face slowly faded: he knew... bai ru would come looking for him again. and he would certainly see this woman again...


    after all, this woman was not only the key to unlocking the secrets of larilo but also bait laid out by qiu tu...


    now that the bait had been cast, it was up to fate when the harvest would be.


    of course, qiu tu also admitted: he did indeed crave the body of this woman with a unique temperament...


    however, he was not in a hurry. only by casting a long line could he catch a big fish...


    he had other fish to eat tonight, he wasn''t eager to eat this particular one.


    thinking this, as bai ru completely disappeared from his view, qiu tu slowly withdrew his gaze.


    he took out his communicator and checked the time; it was already approaching 10 p.m.


    ''it''s time to meet with tang feifei.''


    with that in mind, qiu tu left the investigation bureau and headed to the sedan that qin zhengguang had given him, ready to ''eat fish.''


    but just as he stepped out of the investigation bureau office building, and hadn''t walked a few steps, suddenly, a dark shadow flew towards him...


    ...


    meanwhile.


    in jia shu''s office.


    liu fuping, fully clothed, was bound hand and foot on an autopsy table raised in the middle of the room.


    jia shu, with his back to her, was putting on rubber gloves, saying with a half-smile,


    "fuping... actually, i''ve always thought highly of you. i even considered promoting you to first level detective, or even deputy chief of the interrogation section, several times."


    after donning the rubber gloves, jia shu bent over and continued choosing a surgical knife,


    "unfortunately... while you are indeed capable, your stance always seems to waver."


    "you were someone i personally trained, yet you grew so close to tang fei, even to the point where the nature of your relationship is unclear."


    "this has truly disappointed me."


    as he spoke, jia shu picked up a surgical knife, held it up against the light to inspect it and nodded in satisfaction.


    "but, i didn''t give up on you just like that. instead, i''ve always given you opportunities and observed you."


    "what surprised me, though, the more i observed, the more i realized something was off."


    "you seem to not only be interested in tang fei but are interested in anything to do with the bureau chief."


    "like a month ago, when the bureau chief casually criticized deputy chief liu feng of the action division, you immediately made secret contact with him."


    "or when a rumor about the bureau chief was inadvertently spread within the bureau, you also immediately gathered information and investigated."


    "even... with qiu tu. didn''t your initial enthusiasm towards him and your ambiguous relationship stem from the rumor that he was the bureau chief''s confidant?" experience exclusive tales on empire


    having said this, jia shu paused a moment.


    then he turned around with a smile, surgical knife in hand, and slowly approached liu fuping.


    liu fuping was tied to the autopsy table, her face full of terror as she watched him, continuously shaking her head.


    -------


    old rule, 30,000 words for three chapters. the third chapter will be released at 19:00. asking for monthly tickets!

 Chapter 149 Saving Liu Fuping (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```jia shu, however, was as if he hadn''t seen liu fuping''s struggle, his face piled with a false smile.


    "but what really confirmed for me that you were a spy was the night of ''yin caimei''s death''."


    "the life or death of yin caimei wasn''t actually that important, but it was a good opportunity to test for moles within the investigation bureau."


    "so... i deliberately exaggerated the impact of ''yin caimei''s death'' at the senior meeting of the investigation bureau and covered up the cause of yin caimei''s death. i wanted to see how many moles it would draw out."


    "what i did not expect was that you were the first one to be stirred..."


    as he spoke, jia shu''s face showed his disappointment, "although you are a skilled interrogator, you''re indeed not cut out to be a spy."


    "you are too impatient and too restless."


    "a minor piece of intelligence, a small test, and you completely lost your composure. this isn''t the quality a competent spy should have..."


    saying this, jia shu''s scalpel traced a few lines across liu fuping''s exquisitely beautiful face, "so... following the information and issues you exposed."


    "i just did a simple check, and i found out your real identity."


    "previously, because the ''yin caimei case'' wasn''t closed, it wasn''t convenient for me to take action against you."


    "now that the ''yin caimei case'' has ended completely, i can finally relax..."


    as he said this, jia shu''s scalpel drew a graceful arc, as if sculpting art, heading towards liu fuping''s delicate wrist¡ªit appeared that jia shu intended to bleed liu fuping while slowly dissecting her...


    at this critical moment.


    suddenly! the door of jia shu''s office was violently pushed open from the outside!


    with a "bang," the door heavily struck the wall.


    the hand holding the scalpel came to a slow halt, without even a hint of a tremble.


    the smile on his face faded as he turned around slowly to see who had come.


    the visitor turned out to be... qiu tu, who had already left the investigation bureau building but returned unexpectedly!


    seeing qiu tu, there wasn''t much surprise on jia shu''s face.


    he adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses and asked with a feigned smile, "chief qiu... oh, i mean, chief qiu. shouldn''t you give me an explanation for bursting into my office in the middle of the night?"


    upon hearing jia shu''s words, qiu tu smiled, seeming to have a kind of reckless fearlessness.


    he did not respond to jia shu''s question but instead pointed at liu fuping, who was tied to the dissection table, and countered, "then... shouldn''t the minister explain why he tied up my subordinate on the dissection table in the middle of the night?"


    hearing qiu tu''s sharp response, a mocking smile appeared on jia shu''s face; his eyes hidden behind glasses were full of amusement, "certainly."


    he pointed at liu fuping on the dissection table, "this subordinate of yours is a spy. i am interrogating her now..."


    qiu tu heard this and shook his head.


    he said, "minister, that''s exactly why i''ve come to see you."


    "you might have misunderstood; agent liu is not a spy."


    "misunderstood?" a curious look flashed in jia shu''s eyes, "how have i misunderstood?"


    the bright lights in the room cast more shadows, making the entire room seem to be divided and crisscrossed by light and shadow, appearing exceptionally eerie and magnificent.


    qiu tu slowly walked over to liu fuping, holding her while saying, "are you trying to say that agent liu is a spy arranged by the political department of the eastern city district?" sear?h the n?velfire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    jia shu regarded qiu tu noncommittally.


    qiu tu said, "that indeed was agent liu''s previous identity."


    "oh?" jia shu adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, watching qiu tu with a semblance of a smile, "her previous identity? does she have a new one now?"


    the shadows in the room seemed to spread slowly...


    liu fuping, sensing the impending danger, widened her eyes and shook her head at qiu tu, as if signaling him to leave quickly.


    but... qiu tu, as if unaware of anything, confidently said, "yes."


    "because... during the ''yin caimei case,'' i turned agent liu. i made her a double agent."


    upon hearing qiu tu''s words, jia shu laughed, "chief qiu, do i need to remind you that even if you really cultivated or turned a spy, you would still need formal documentation on file?"


    "and with your prior rank, you weren''t authorized to plant spies, were you?"


    qiu tu retained an utmost calm expression. while unlocking the handcuffs on liu fuping, he smiled and replied, "you''re right to remind me, minister."


    "so, i didn''t plan to directly authorize her as a double agent myself at that time."


    "i was preparing to report to you and apply for it."


    as he said this, qiu tu went to the foot of the table and unlocked liu fuping''s shackles, "but then, who would''ve thought that tonight, i would be promoted."


    "and with my position, i just happen to have the authority to plant spies."


    "so... i simply wrote an authorization letter myself and created a spy profile for agent liu."


    with that, qiu tu produced a document and showed it in front of jia shu.


    jia shu glanced at it, and indeed it was a legal spy profile with liu fuping''s signature on it...


    after showing the document, qiu tu quickly put the document away and then said, "but... i didn''t expect that in just a short hour or two, the minister would have taken away my spy."


    ```


    ```


    "so... in my haste, i barged into the minister''s office."


    "that was indeed wrong of me,"


    after speaking, qiu tu slightly bowed to jia shu and said earnestly, "so... please punish me, minister!"


    at this moment, liu fuping, whose handcuffs and shackles qiu tu had undone, had already hidden behind the bent figure of qiu tu.


    she clasped qiu tu''s clothes tightly with both hands, nervously watching the covert struggle between the two men.


    seeing qiu tu bow to admit his fault, jia shu said nothing. he just looked at qiu tu, quietly watching...


    after about five or six seconds, a smile suddenly blossomed on his face.


    then he threw the scalpel into the tray, took off the rubber gloves, and helped qiu tu to his feet, saying with a forced smile, "chief qiu, you make too much of it."


    "what is there to punish? it''s all a misunderstanding," he said.


    as he spoke, he glanced at liu fuping and said with a smirk, "additionally, agent liu, i have a criticism for you too."


    "since you''re already one of us, you should have taken the initiative to reveal your identity."


    experience new tales on empire


    "by staying silent, aren''t you deliberately causing misunderstandings between chief qiu and me?"


    facing the perverted jia shu, liu fuping was genuinely afraid. so although she wanted to help qiu tu smooth things over, she opened her mouth several times but still couldn''t speak.


    seeing this, qiu tu also conveniently said with a smile, "minister, you can''t blame agent liu. look, she can''t even speak right now."


    "after all, who doesn''t know of the minister''s reputation in xinjie city?"


    "haha." listening to qiu tu''s compliments, jia shu laughed hollowly twice.


    seeing this, qiu tu didn''t dare linger and timely suggested leaving, "then minister, if there''s nothing else, we''ll be leaving now. there''s still a pile of work to be busy with."


    upon hearing this, jia shu casually picked up a remote control and pressed a button. then, watching the autopsy table slowly lower, he said with a fake smile, "go ahead, go ahead."


    seeing this, qiu tu grabbed liu fuping''s hand and then walked briskly out of jia shu''s office without looking back...


    after qiu tu left, the autopsy table fully descended.


    with his back to the office door, jia shu''s eyes had turned completely crimson...


    a sick smile appeared on his face, "hehehe. the fruit has finally ripened...."


    "i really must thank the bureau chief and liu fuping, hehehe...."


    ...


    meanwhile.


    having left jia shu''s office, qiu tu started sprinting with liu fuping in tow.


    only when they had exited the ninth floor and stepped into the elevator did qiu tu finally heave a sigh of relief.


    seeing qiu tu''s reaction, the color slowly returned to liu fuping''s pale face, and her body gradually regained sensation.


    she bit her flaming red lip and gazed at qiu tu with her lovely eyes, asking softly, "did you... see the ring i dropped?"


    "ring? what ring?" qiu tu took a few deep breaths before looking at liu fuping with a puzzled expression.


    hearing qiu tu''s question, liu fuping seemed puzzled, "the ring... the one i was wearing today."


    "you didn''t see the ring i dropped? then how did you... know something happened to me?"


    upon hearing liu fuping''s question, qiu tu chuckled and flirtatiously replied, "what else could it be, it''s because of our hearts being in sync, of course...."


    at qiu tu''s words, liu fuping smiled and gave him a gentle slap, "still, the chief has a way with words."


    looking at liu fuping''s gradually normalizing state, qiu tu''s gaze turned somewhat distant...


    in truth, the reason he was able to come to liu fuping''s rescue was really just a coincidence.


    it was yesterday morning, which was sunday.


    when liu fuping took qiu tu to meet jia shu, qiu tu had experimented on her with a cataclysmic creature he obtained from the "salvage game" - the silver key beehive!


    this cataclysmic creature could follow, monitor, and record everything that happened to a target object or creature for 36 hours.


    when qiu tu used it, it happened to be 10:30 a.m. (chapter 130)


    and tonight, when qiu tu calmed bai ru down and escorted her out of the investigation bureau building, it was exactly 10:30 p.m., which was 36 hours after he used the cataclysmic creature.


    so... as qiu tu was preparing to drive to find tang feifei, the silver key bee returned to him from liu fuping.


    since it was his first time testing this cataclysmic creature, qiu tu, who was sitting in the car, became curious and checked what liu fuping had done over the past day and a half.


    as a result... he happened to see the scenes of liu fuping being taken away and threatened by jia shu...


    at that moment, qiu tu was truly shocked.


    he was hesitant about whether or not to take the risk to rescue liu fuping.


    but then... a detail in the footage involving jia shu made qiu tu decide to act.


    -------


    old rules, three chapters at 10,000 words each. the third chapter will be posted at 19:00. begging for monthly tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 150 66 out of the 108 Ways to Enhance Affection (Seeking Subscriptions for 10,000 Words!)

    ```in the video, jia shu had been engaging in idle chat with liu fuping since calling her into his office.


    he asked about her recent work, her life, and her health, but... he never broached any spy-related topics with her.


    despite no abnormality in his expression or actions, qiu tu, who knew jia shu''s personality well, was 100% certain that jia shu was just delaying time.


    after stalling for over half an hour, when the time for the "silver key bee" was about to expire, jia shu finally took out handcuffs and shackles and restrained liu fuping with them.


    the whole process... seemed like it was deliberately performed for qiu tu to see.


    after noticing this detail, although qiu tu was reluctant to admit it, he thought it over and concluded that there was only one possibility that could explain jia shu''s behavior.


    that was... jia shu knew about the existence of the silver key bee on liu fuping. he even knew the exact timing of its installation very clearly.


    following this conclusion, qiu tu also came up with more chilling speculations:


    for instance... jia shu had surveilled him at least since yesterday, which is how he knew all of qiu tu''s actions, including the testing of the silver key bee on liu fuping.


    then... continuing with this speculation and deducing further, jia shu''s actions today became very intriguing.


    after the "yin caimei case" ended, he did not lie low, nor did he choose to target qiu tu, but instead chose to strike at liu fuping.


    this was clearly not about the wine for the drunken guest, but a way to force qiu tu to make a choice:


    to protect himself and watch liu fuping die, or... to save liu fuping, expose his "achilles'' heel," and fall into jia shu''s trap.


    after all, although qiu tu handled affairs thoroughly, making it difficult for anyone to grasp leverage against him, liu fuping was riddled with vulnerabilities. a simple spy profile could only protect liu fuping momentarily.


    liu fuping had far too many points of weakness that could be targeted.


    therefore, once qiu tu saved liu fuping... jia shu could manipulate qiu tu by controlling liu fuping.


    wouldn''t this evening''s act of turning liu fuping into a spy erase all of qiu tu''s previous efforts?


    then, all liu fuping needed to do was to send another piece of intelligence to eastern city, and jia shu would have a reason to strike again!


    moreover, every time liu fuping transmitted intelligence, jia shu could use it as an excuse to attack.


    unless qiu tu kept covering for her every time, claiming he was the one who ordered the transmission, liu fuping''s fate would really be completely in jia shu''s hands.


    beyond this passive waiting, jia shu could also regularly demand intelligence about eastern city from liu fuping, forcing her into a dilemma between the investigation bureaus of the two cities.


    and just a slight mishap could lead to both liu fuping and qiu tu being wiped out by him in one fell swoop.


    this was a multiple-choice question, turned into a lethal trick!


    it must be said that jia shu was ruthless in his actions. but... after figuring out jia shu''s scheme, qiu tu could only laugh.


    because jia shu, for all his calculations, had misjudged liu fuping''s place in qiu tu''s heart.


    although qiu tu got along well with liu fuping and often shared flirtatious moments with her, the relationship between liu fuping and qiu tu... was really not at a level that would make qiu tu willing to risk danger to save her.


    so, after considering jia shu''s transparent plan fully, qiu tu hardly thought twice before deciding to abandon liu fuping.


    however, just then, an idea suddenly struck qiu tu: since jia shu was already preparing to target him.


    why not go with the flow and control the "direction" of jia shu''s attack?


    in chaotic times, one cannot afford to have weaknesses. but... one can fabricate a weakness!


    isn''t jia shu suspicious about his relationship with liu fuping? then he would confirm that relationship!


    if jia shu wants to grasp his weakness, then he would hand over this "weakness" to him!


    after that, no matter how jia shu planned to manipulate him through liu fuping, he would cooperate as much as possible! create the illusion that he had truly fallen into the trap!


    as long as he maintained his rationality and held on to relevant evidence, even if liu fuping turned out to be unreliable and jia shu got a hold of her, he could easily disentangle himself and remain unaffected!


    during this time, not only would he not have to worry about jia shu''s unknown threats, but he could also secure valuable development time, working with tang feifei to bring jia shu down!


    having thought of this new approach, qiu tu suddenly felt it was workable!


    the only remaining question in this whole plan was: would jia shu use the pretense of setting a trap tonight to actually attempt a forcible killing of qiu tu?


    luckily, qiu tu had the "crisis intuition" golden finger.


    when qiu tu was about to save liu fuping, his "crisis intuition" was not triggered. this meant that jia shu was not deranged enough to actually attempt to kill qiu tu.


    therefore, qiu tu could calmly rescue liu fuping throughout the process!


    because he really knew that jia shu was just bluffing and would not truly try to kill him...


    thinking this, qiu tu glanced at the loyalty that had surged by another 9 points for liu fuping, who had now given herself over to him completely.


    so, liu fuping was truly just an addition to tonight''s entire plan.


    although qiu tu also admitted that deep down, he might have a hint of desire to avoid the demise of this fragile and beautiful woman.


    after all, who could bear to lose a beautiful woman who was loyal, rapidly advancing in ability, and served multiple roles and functions? right?


    but... he was mostly executing his own plan.


    of course, this did not cause qiu tu to feel guilty towards liu fuping.


    after all, although tonight''s plan might involve using her, being used by others is in itself a type of value.


    moreover, if he didn''t use her, she would not even survive the night...


    ```


    thinking about this, qiu tu''s thoughts gradually circled back.


    the matter wasn''t over yet. no one knew if jia shu might still be monitoring the two of them, so... he still had to perform the full act.


    with that in mind, qiu tu deliberately took a deep breath, then hugged liu fuping with a face full of fear and said with concern, "sister liu, when i found out something happened to you, i was really scared."


    "i was really worried that i would be too late, worried that i wouldn''t be able to save you."


    "now that i see you''re alright, i''m finally completely relieved."


    it was probably the first time anyone had seen qiu tu express his emotions so openly.


    after a moment of stunned silence, liu fuping''s eyes reddened slightly as she hugged qiu tu back.


    although qiu tu''s affections for her were "feigned," her feelings for qiu tu were genuine.


    after all, only she knew how desperate she felt when jia shu called her into his office and tied her to the dissection table.


    at that moment, she had even given up any hope of survival.


    it was precisely because of this mindset that when qiu tu appeared in the office like a god, and then forcefully confronted jia shu and took her out of the office, her world seemed to revolve around qiu tu alone...


    now, hearing qiu tu''s sweet nothings and feeling his heartfelt concern, her heart overflowed with nothing but immense gratitude and dependence...


    [liu fuping loyalty +5]


    seeing the loyalty score appear again, qiu tu''s expression remained unchanged, but he sighed inwardly: indeed, genuine feelings never retain, only manipulations win hearts.


    [108 ways to deepen affection] no. 66: girls are emotional creatures. in front of a woman, what you say is always more important than what you do. if you do a little, speak as if you''ve done more; if you do more, talk even more highly of it.


    ps1: scumbags often capture girls'' hearts this way.


    ps2: this method should be used in combination with others, or it might backfire and turn you into a lap dog...


    ...


    he left the investigation bureau building with liu fuping. sea??h th§× n?velfire.n§×t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    qiu tu drove her back to her home.


    perhaps because she had finally returned to her "territory", or maybe because qiu tu had been gently comforting her the whole ride, liu fuping''s overall demeanor had improved significantly, and she was no longer as fearfully stiff as she was when confronting jia shu.


    once home, qiu tu poured a cup of hot water for liu fuping. after she drank it, warmth spread through her body. experience tales at empire


    she raised her eyes to look at qiu tu, then said softly, "qiu tu... thank you for saving me tonight."


    remembering his current role, qiu tu sat next to liu fuping, gently embraced the beautiful young woman, and whispered sweet words, "sister liu, do we still need to say these things?"


    "the most important thing is that you''re okay."


    liu fuping''s face reddened slightly upon hearing this.


    then, with a worried expression, she whispered, "what are you going to do next?"


    "even though you created a spy profile for me... jia shu won''t believe it that easily."


    "and... eastern city contacts me every half a month for intelligence."


    "even though they just came to me two days ago, there''s still about ten days of buffer time."


    "but... eventually, jia shu is bound to catch on."


    hearing this, qiu tu gently held liu fuping''s delicate hand.


    jia shu wasn''t wrong; liu fuping did have talent and was a quick learner.


    but... she lacked experience and her psychological quality was far from meeting the standard of a spy.


    qiu tu was actually curious who could bear to train such a delicate beauty into a spy and throw her into another city to fend for herself, let alone let her fall into this kind of trap.


    thinking this, qiu tu simultaneously criticized liu fuping''s handler and gently patted her hand, reassuring her, "don''t worry. i''ve thought about all this. leave everything to me, okay?"


    upon hearing qiu tu''s words, liu fuping paused.


    since leaving her hometown to become a spy in xinjie city, it had been a long time since she''d heard such a reassuring and comforting promise.


    and qiu tu did possess a kind of magic: it seemed that anything he agreed to do, he would certainly accomplish.


    at that moment, liu fuping felt a strong impulse surge within her.


    she looked at qiu tu, then lowered her head and bit her lip, saying, "okay. i trust you."


    after finishing, she whispered, "i''m a bit tired, i''ll take a bath first. you go ahead."


    with that, she got up and walked toward the bathroom.


    watching her leave, qiu tu froze for a second, with several question marks appearing above his head: ??


    wait, is there an unexpected surprise coming?


    ------


    still 3 chapters with 10,000 words each! continuing the daily 10,000 words tonight! please support more! requesting monthly tickets and subscriptions!

 Chapter 151 A Night with Liu Fuping (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```thinking like this, qiu tu couldn''t help but tilt his head to look at liu fuping''s retreating figure.


    the beautiful young woman seemed to have really prepared for something, even her way of walking was different¡ªas if she was a bit sneaky, and yet somewhat shy. despite being in her own home, she was tiptoeing as quietly as possible.


    perhaps accustomed to liu fuping''s usual carefree manner and the back-and-forth interactions with him, qiu tu found himself somewhat unaccustomed to this state of hers!


    watching liu fuping go into the shuigu room, qiu tu lay on the couch, gazing at the ceiling, pondering over what this all meant....


    could this be the legendary "repaying a life-saving debt with one''s body"?


    tsk, isn''t that quite thrilling?


    and while qiu tu was indulging in wild thoughts, the sound of "swish swash" of water also came from the shuigu room.


    hearing that suggestive sound, qiu tu paused for a moment, then suddenly sat up from the couch, no longer able to lie down.


    he tiptoed to the door, ready to catch a breeze at the shuigu room.


    to go to the bathroom, he had to pass the main entrance. but just as he reached the door, qiu tu froze for a second.


    because... he discovered that the riding boots he had just placed at the door were gone!


    qiu tu: ??


    qiu tu hesitated for a moment then looked up at the clothes rack by the door. his jacket, which he had just hung there... was also gone.


    qiu tu was stunned for a moment, then a smile curved on his lips. suddenly, things felt a bit interesting....


    and at that moment, the bathroom door was also opened from inside by liu fuping.


    liu fuping peeked out, her beautiful eyes looking at qiu tu, and asked, "what are you doing standing at the entrance?"


    qiu tu let out an "ah?" and explained, "nothing. just wandering around."


    liu fuping made an "mmm" and then, with a shy glance at qiu tu, she said softly, "i noticed your clothes were a bit dirty, and your boots hadn''t been cleaned for a while."


    "so i''ve washed both your clothes and boots."


    "they should be dry by tomorrow...."


    with that, she lifted her gaze, looking warmly at qiu tu.


    when qiu tu saw his boots and clothes missing earlier, he guessed this might happen. so he responded to liu fuping with an eager look, "i think they might just be able to ''dry'' tonight."


    qiu tu placed emphasis on the word "dry". hearing this, liu fuping bit her lip and coyly rolled her eyes at qiu tu before slipping back into the bathroom.


    with both man and woman willing, qiu tu didn''t bother to pretend anymore.


    he cleared his throat, stepped forward, and knocked on the door, asking, "sister liu, you''ve helped me wash my clothes and clean my shoes."


    "i''m feeling a bit guilty, how about i help you wash wash as well?"


    a muffled giggle from liu fuping came from the bathroom, "what could you help me wash?"


    qiu tu, thick-faced, insisted, "anything, really. i can help you scrub your back, scrub the front, scrub your legs¡ªall possible."


    "i''m strong, i can endure hardship, and i''m not tired easily!"


    saying this, and perhaps worried liu fuping wouldn''t believe him, he assured spiritedly, "really!"


    the bathroom grew silent, save for the continual swish of the water.


    for any ordinary person facing this situation, they would mostly think they''ve been rejected. but a seasoned player like qiu tu knew... this was consent!


    with the atmosphere already set, do you really need a girl to tell you what you can do before you do it?


    when would you ever get to the meat of the matter then!


    so, qiu tu coughed and added, "sister liu, if you don''t say anything, i''ll take it as a yes."


    with that, qiu tu reached out and pushed open the bathroom door.


    as expected, the bathroom door wasn''t locked; it swung open with just a push.


    as the bathroom door opened, a dense steam immediately spilled out.


    qiu tu walked in, feeling as if he had entered a fairyland, surrounded by mist everywhere.


    through the hazy fog, he could barely see liu fuping''s silhouette, faint and elusive.


    qiu tu smiled, closed the door, and then walked towards that direction.


    before he could even get close, the showerhead suddenly sprayed water at him.


    qiu tu couldn''t dodge in time, and his clothes were instantly soaked; the giggles of liu fuping also reached his ears.


    could qiu tu swallow this defeat?!


    provoked by his subordinate, he was "greatly enraged" and decided to show this unruly subordinate, liu fuping, the authority of his position as her superior....


    ....


    ....


    an hour later.


    the storm had passed.


    qiu tu and liu fuping lay in bed, snuggled up to each other.


    the triumphant qiu tu wrapped his arms around liu fuping, and while smoking a cigarette, he also started discussing serious matters.


    "sister liu, is there any intelligence related to ''god'' in eastern city?"


    hearing qiu tu''s question, liu fuping struggled to sit up, glanced at qiu tu and asked, "intelligence related to ''god''?"


    "are you referring to the ''god'' that old master qin mentioned?"


    qiu tu responded with a "mmm".


    with liu fuping''s loyalty now skyrocketing to 95, and given their current relationship, of course, she would not keep any secrets.


    so upon hearing qiu tu''s question, she hesitated, then disclosed, "i might have really heard something about ''god''."


    she said, "i once heard it from an elder... ah, a senior."


    "he said that, in fact... ''god'' is not far from ordinary people."


    "in an era where the spirit world and the physical world are mutually influential, the material can affect the spirit, and the spirit can affect the material."


    "therefore... the thoughts and desires of all living beings may catalyze the emergence of cataclysmic creatures in the spirit world."


    "among these, cataclysmic creatures spawned by several of the most common human desires are particularly numerous."


    "common desires?" qiu tu asked with interest.


    liu fuping nodded, "yes."


    ```


    "for example: jealousy, greed, lust, and so on,"


    upon hearing this, qiu tu fell into thought for a moment, then couldn''t help asking, "these all seem to be negative?"


    liu fuping hummed in agreement and said, "yes. that''s because... negative emotions tend to gather more easily."


    qiu tu pondered for a while and felt that it made sense.


    indeed, many times, people''s positive emotions are far less intense than their negative ones.


    he hesitated for a moment, then said, "so... the ''god'' that old master qin worships is very likely born from humanity''s own lust?"


    liu fuping nodded again, "it''s very possible."


    upon hearing this, qiu tu couldn''t help but ask, "what about your relative, has he ever mentioned how to deal with such high order cataclysmic creatures?"


    hearing qiu tu''s words, liu fuping hesitated and then slowly shook her head, "no."


    seeing that qiu tu was a bit disappointed, she couldn''t help but add, "but, i can find time to contact him and ask if there is a way."


    upon hearing this, qiu tu happily hugged liu fuping and planted a kiss on her with a smack!


    caught off guard by qiu tu''s sudden attack, liu fuping''s beautiful eyes instantly misted over, her gaze hazy and all the more enticing.


    she didn''t say a word, but it seemed as if a thousand words were conveyed in her eyes.


    qiu tu read the message in her eyes and, unwilling to be outdone, ascended once more...


    it was as if the moon had blushed, shyly pulling the clouds to cover the sky.


    this made xinjie city, already shrouded in darkness, seem even darker by a third...


    and in the night of xinjie city, where order had not yet fully recovered, many were taking the opportunity to move about in secret...


    while engrossed in hard work, qiu tu sometimes felt as if he and liu fuping had forgotten something, but he couldn''t recall what it was...


    meanwhile.


    at tang feifei''s private villa. holding a glass of wine, tang feifei sipped lightly while patiently waiting for qiu tu...


    a silent night passed.


    the next morning, liu fuping got up from bed, her body aching all over.


    seeing the marks that covered her body and recalling last night''s "protracted battle," she couldn''t help but smile.


    she tidied her hair and got up to take a bath...


    but no sooner had she stepped out of the bedroom than her communicator started to buzz.


    liu fuping walked over to the sofa and fished out her communicator from her uniform pocket to take a look.


    at that glance, her expression changed dramatically.


    because the call was from tang feifei!


    liu fuping didn''t pick up immediately but first opened her contact list to check.


    then she discovered that tang feifei had called her countless times throughout the night.


    at that moment, liu fuping truly felt like she had been caught in an affair.


    so she quickly racked her brain, thinking of what to say.


    after silently contemplating for a few seconds, liu fuping took a deep breath and answered the call.


    as soon as the call connected, tang feifei''s distant voice came through, "where were you last night?"


    women are masters of acting, so liu fuping feigned a yawn and said, "where else could i be? of course, i was at home."


    after speaking, liu fuping counter-asked, "what''s happened? is there some kind of problem?"


    tang feifei spoke gravely, "qiu tu didn''t come to see me last night."


    "i didn''t dare contact him rashly and it wasn''t convenient to send someone to inquire, so i was a bit worried." s§×ar?h the n?velfire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    liu fuping keenly caught the slip in tang feifei''s words, "worried?"


    before she could press further, tang feifei quickly filled the gap, "yes. he and i were preparing to deal with jia shu, i''m worried that jia shu might have acted against him beforehand."


    "in which case, i might lose an important ally."


    this reason seemed reasonable enough. and, compared to tang feifei, liu fuping, who had just been intimate with qiu tu last night, clearly felt guiltier.


    so she didn''t continue to fixate on this minor issue but instead said, "i''ll give him a call and ask about the situation."


    tang feifei hummed in response.


    just when liu fuping thought the call was over, tang feifei suddenly asked another question, "did you see qiu tu after you spoke to me on the phone last night?"


    hearing this crucial question, liu fuping was at a loss for an answer.


    after all, she didn''t know whether tang feifei was onto something...


    so, after carefully considering for a moment, she finally said, "i did see him. jia shu sought me out last night, and when i left, i bumped into him. he was heading out."


    tang feifei responded with a cool "hmm" and hung up the phone.


    ''something is off about her.''


    ''something is off about her...?''


    after hanging up, the two women who once shared an extremely intimate relationship held their communicators with a glimmer of suspicion in their eyes.


    both knew each other too well, as well as how they treated their ordinary colleagues.


    and both tang feifei''s unusual concern and liu fuping''s slightly concealing demeanor seemed a bit different from usual.


    however, perhaps because they themselves were the "guilty" party, they couldn''t be sure if they were just seeing dirt in everything they perceived as "heartfelt."


    so... after hesitating, both women suppressed their doubts, preparing to use their own means to probe a bit further...


    continue your adventure at empire


    at this time, qiu tu was unaware that the two women with whom he had shared intimate relations were starting to doubt the purity of their relationships with him.


    right now, he had just woken up from sleep.


    perhaps the constitution of cataclysmics truly surpasses that of ordinary people since he was still full of vitality despite having slept for only four hours.


    lying on liu fuping''s big bed, qiu tu didn''t idle. he took this spare time to start tallying up his recent haul of loot!


    -----


    i was blocked again. then i took a long time to make some changes. i reduced some details, but it does not affect the overall plot.


    today, as usual, three chapters of 10,000 words. the third chapter will be updated around 19:00. seeking monthly tickets, seeking subscriptions!

 Chapter 152 Inventory of recent gains! (10,000 words asking for subscriptions!)

    qiu tu had a rather fruitful period recently.and his gains mainly came from three sources.


    the first source of gain was the "fixed harvest." read latest stories on empire


    since the second golden finger "loyalty game" was activated, qiu tu had a steady source of gains.


    during this time, through the two mini-games of the "loyalty game," qiu tu also obtained quite a few good items.


    especially the "salvage game."


    this game allowed qiu tu to obtain cataclysmic material, cataclysmic treasures, or cataclysmic creatures that exist in reality.


    the only limitation was that the loyalty of his subordinates had to be above 90, and it could only be played once every seven days.


    therefore, in the past few days, qiu tu had only ah-tai, eagle, ah-kun, ah-xiong, and liu fuping play this game.


    ah-tai salvaged a cataclysmic treasure called the "mandragora love drug," eagle salvaged the "seal of ownership," and ah-kun salvaged the "silver key beehive."


    as for the rewards ah-xiong and liu fuping salvaged, they were a bit different.


    ah-xiong brought up cataclysmic material called "nameless stele powder."


    ''nameless stele powder: one of the key cataclysm materials. just match it with other materials, and you can create cataclysmic treasures like the "skull talisman" or "old seal"...''


    as for the cataclysmic material liu fuping brought up, it was even more special.


    ''overflowing cataclysmic''s spiritual entity: one of the very special cataclysm materials. it contains the power source of a cataclysmic.


    ''if you integrate it into the cataclysmic awakening potion, the success rate of awakening will get infinitely close to 100%. however... it can only awaken the path and abilities of this particular cataclysmic''s spiritual entity.''


    ''note: the path this cataclysmic''s spiritual entity follows is "mystery", and the cataclysmic ability it possesses is "shadow walking".''


    besides the "salvage game," in the past few days of the "combat game," qiu tu still chose to fight against wang xi. unfortunately, wang xi evolved rapidly during this period, and his subordinates sent to fight against wang xi could only claim some wins and some losses.


    so, he only got two small memory fragments.


    the first one, qiu tu had already seen, which was the scene where the masked man in suit slaughtered that wealthy businessman.


    the second one was the memory fragment that ah-tai won by fighting desperately last night.


    qiu tu kept it for now, planning to check it when he had time today.


    besides "fixed harvest,"


    qiu tu''s second source of gains was the "countdown rewards."


    the resolution of yin caimei''s case turned all three of qiu tu''s countdown hourglasses into treasure chests.


    the first was the one-minute timed countdown when jia shu suspected him. (chapter 110) s§×arch* the nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    the second was "danger in the dark."


    the third, of course, was "yin caimei''s case closure time."


    because qiu tu had been busy earlier, he didn''t have time to check these three hourglasses.


    this time, taking the opportunity when he had a moment, he started to investigate the rewards for these three crisis countdowns.


    the reward for the first crisis countdown was named "defying fate scales," which, as described, is a precious cataclysmic material shed from a high order catastrophized creature.


    qiu tu remembered seeing this material on the potion formula of the masked man in suit as well...


    the second and third crisis countdowns, perhaps because they were more difficult, had considerably richer rewards¡ªtwo cataclysmic treasures.


    one was called "uncompromising simulacrum," and the other was "ghostly map"...


    apart from the substantial rewards provided by the two golden fingers, qiu tu''s third source of gains came from the cataclysmic he had killed.


    from old master qin, qiu tu had already learned that the cataclysmic''s name was lone wolf, a killer with cataclysmic ability.


    more importantly, qiu tu found three items on lone wolf''s body.


    a dagger, a slightly odd small box, and a coin that looked a bit antiquated.


    the dagger, according to old master qin, was an ordinary object, simply sharper than usual, capable of cutting through iron like mud.


    but the small box and the coin each had their own stories.


    according to old master qin, inside the small box was a cataclysmic creature called "heart-connecting silkworm."


    it''s a creature similar in appearance to a silkworm with the ability to spin silk.


    but the silk it spins is not suited for making clothes; instead, it can be placed within the heart of any living being within 10 meters, establishing a psychic link.


    the two people who establish this link can converse in their minds without making a sound.


    lone wolf was able to communicate secretly with old master qin by using the silk spun by this cataclysmic creature.


    as for the coin, according to old master qin, he wasn''t sure of its purpose.


    but... lone wolf obtained that coin after his first interaction with ''larilo.''


    supposedly, as long as he had this coin, lone wolf could be under larilo''s divine protection.


    old master qin actually tried several times to get this coin from lone wolf but was afraid of angering the deity, so he had to give up the idea.


    as it turned out, after all the twists and turns, the coin ended up in qiu tu''s hands.


    beyond the collection of cataclysmic material, cataclysmic treasures, and cataclysmic creatures, qiu tu still had many promises and resources from qin shuman that he hadn''t had the chance to exchange yet.


    these included money, talent, intelligence, and more.


    and more importantly, as qiu tu advanced in his position, it seemed his cataclysmic ability... also improved?


    it was just that since he had been busy since last night up until now, he hadn''t had the time to comprehend and thus was temporarily unaware of the changes...


    one could say... that the yin caimei case had made qiu tu utterly wealthy! he had completed his initial capital accumulation!


    ''indeed... if you want to get rich quick, you have to bite off more than you can chew!'' he thought.


    while thinking this, qiu tu also quietly tucked away all the gains he had made during this time.


    then he crossed his hands behind his head, contentedly lay on the bed, and took another rest.


    once his mood had settled, qiu tu, smelling the lingering scent of liu fuping beside him, suddenly felt his interest piqued.


    so, he got out of bed, went to the bathroom shaking it off, and pressed liu fuping, who was squatting and brushing her teeth, onto the washbasin, and went "up and down" a few more times...


    in this manner, time passed until dawn.


    qiu tu finally spared her amidst the pleas of liu fuping...


    and took her along to the investigation bureau office building.


    qiu tu did a simple induction at the action division, then proactively met with the chief and deputy chief of the division to get acquainted.


    since they all knew that qiu tu was only on secondment at the action division and had no direct conflicts of interest, the meeting was very pleasant.


    after all this, qiu tu left the political department and headed to the public security bureau on the second floor, ready to take over the investigation team for the "8.16 pharmacy robbery case."


    public security bureau, as one of the largest departments of the investigation bureau, could only be said to have an average status, which was evident from the fact that they were only situated on the second floor of the office building.


    the main function of the public security bureau was to fund and manage the public security offices of the various streets. thus, maintaining public security and dealing with trivial matters were their primary duties.


    but... this also meant that they were somewhat at a loss when it came to major cases.


    therefore, cui daren, the chief of the xiafang street public security bureau, was right; the entire investigative team for the "8.16 pharmacy robbery case" was looking forward to qiu tu''s arrival.


    this allowed qiu tu to fit in without any issues after joining the investigative team.


    also, because qiu tu was now seen as the savior of the public security bureau, he smoothly filed an application to bring liu fuping, song qing, wang xi, and the two groups of confidants cao dabiao and chen feng from the action division and the interrogation section...


    with this, the investigation team for the "8.16 pharmacy robbery case" was officially established...


    ...


    meanwhile, just as qiu tu finished tallying his gains and was eagerly preparing for a big showdown,


    at the military''s security department investigation department,


    lin zuo was also on the phone with someone.


    "what did you say? you''ve found the target?"


    lin zuo asked coldly, "are you sure you''re not mistaken? is it a black suit, red hair, and wearing a mask?"


    hearing lin zuo''s question, the man on the other end of the phone dragged out his voice, sounding sly, "boss, we might dare to deceive the investigation bureau, but we''d never dare to lie to the military~~!"


    "you guys would actually dare to shoot us dead~~"


    "and, i, fatty fish, am also a person of some standing in xinjie city, why would i give you false information!"


    "i know it seems a bit coincidental, but... it really just happened like that~~"


    "the person you''re looking for has been frequenting our bar these days. red hair, black suit. such a conspicuous outfit, how could we not recognize him!"


    hearing fatty fish''s words, lin zuo said expressionlessly, "alright."


    "then keep a close watch on him! don''t let him get away! i''m going to report to the higher-ups right now!"


    after saying that, lin zuo hung up the phone and walked toward qin shuman''s office.


    arriving at qin shuman''s office door, lin zuo knocked, and qin shuman''s stern voice immediately followed, "come in!"


    lin zuo pushed the door open, and qin shuman inside was seriously looking through some documents.


    seeing lin zuo enter, qin shuman looked up at him and asked, "what''s happened?"


    lin zuo stood up straight and then replied, "section chief, the target that qiu tu asked us to help find a few days ago has been located!"


    "our informer from the fatty fish bar, fatty fish, says that the man with the red hair and the black suit has been frequenting his bar in the past few days, leaving with one or two women each time."


    "he went there again just after lunch today, the bar had just opened. but this time, he wasn''t alone; he was with a woman in her twenties, almost thirty, with a gentle demeanor."


    "shall we move in now?"


    -----


    the previous chapter was blocked, and it took a long time to revise before it was released. it''s unclear if it may be blocked again at any moment. if it suddenly disappears, it has been blocked again. just wait a bit.


    the usual rule: 3 chapters, 10,000 words. the third chapter will be updated around 19:00. ask for monthly tickets, ask for subscriptions!

 Chapter 153 Qin Shuman Gets Promoted (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    hearing lin zuo''s words, qin shuman sat in her chair and pondered, while twirling a pen with her slender fingers.after a moment, her pen stopped moving, and she had already made up her mind. she said, "take people now and keep watch near that bar. tighten the net on our target without rousing their suspicion."


    "i''ll first give qiu tu a call to discuss this matter."


    upon hearing qin shuman''s words, lin zuo did not immediately comply.


    a slight twitch crossed his expressionless face before he looked at qin shuman and spoke bluntly,


    "section chief, i might be overstepping by saying this. but... i still want to remind you. your relationship with qiu tu could very well be affecting the normal operations of our department and section."


    "why do we have to consult the opinion of a section chief from the investigation bureau when we are supposed to be apprehending someone in the security department?"


    "don''t you find it a bit ridiculous?"


    as his words were spoken, the atmosphere in the office suddenly cooled.


    qin shuman''s expression gradually hardened. she set the pen down heavily on the desk, then looked up expressionlessly at lin zuo.


    one second, two seconds...


    just as the atmosphere in the office grew heavier, qin shuman finally spoke slowly, "lin zuo, are you questioning my professionalism and my stance?"


    lin zuo was as stubborn as a rock in a cesspool, both smelly and hard. he showed no fear of the pressure exerted by qin shuman and continued with a serious face, "yes, section chief."


    qin shuman exhaled sharply, then said expressionlessly, "to convince you wholeheartedly, i can explain my thoughts to you."


    "but i must warn you, this is the first time, and the last! i don''t want to hear anything similar in the future!"


    having said that, qin shuman stood up with a serious expression.


    dressed in a green military uniform and black boots, she looked gallant and commanding.


    she took a couple of steps in the office with a "tap tap" of her boots, then continued expressionlessly, "first of all, qiu tu is not an outsider. you might have forgotten that although he is currently a section chief in the investigation bureau, he is also our security department''s captain!"


    "as comrades on the same side, we need to consider his position and the environment he''s in when dealing with certain affairs. we should coordinate as much as possible with him to avoid causing him any adverse effects by acting on our own."


    "second, the lead on this case was provided by qiu tu."


    "although we in the security department have the authority to take over a case involving cataclysmic creatures of this level, if the other party cooperates well with us and it does not affect the case, we can certainly continue this cooperation to avoid any unnecessary complications."


    "finally, and most importantly,"


    qin shuman paced by the window with a serious face and said, "have you ever considered why qiu tu has so much information that even our investigation department and security department, let alone the investigation bureau, doesn''t have?"


    qin shuman gave examples, "old master qin''s identity, larilo, the masked man in suit, the details of the bizarre ritual?"


    if lin zuo had shown no reaction to qin shuman''s previous explanations, upon hearing this, his gaze began to fluctuate slightly.


    a look of realization appeared on his face, and then he tentatively asked, "you suspect... that he''s actually an evil god cultist?"


    qin shuman: "??"


    qin shuman held her forehead, "after we finish talking, go run ten laps!"


    lin zuo: ...


    "yes!" lin zuo saluted respectfully.


    qin shuman glared at him, "i don''t know if qiu tu is an evil god cultist. but what i do know is that he definitely has an information channel that doesn''t overlap with ours in the investigation department, security department, or even the entire investigation bureau!"


    qin shuman, hands clasped behind her back and with a serious face, said, "while the ''larilo case'' is important, the information channel he holds is equally significant!"


    "if we really can continue to collaborate with him, the intelligence capabilities of our military in xinjie city and even the planning area might be greatly enhanced."


    "by then, no matter what case we handle, we might achieve twice the results with half the effort!"


    after hearing qin shuman''s explanation, lin zuo no longer had any doubts. he looked at qin shuman seriously and bowed slightly, "i was wrong, section chief!"


    qin shuman looked at him expressionlessly, "you are punished to run another 10 laps. you may leave now."


    "yes!" lin zuo saluted respectfully again, and then turned and left qin shuman''s office.


    but after lin zuo left, qin shuman did not immediately call qiu tu.


    she stood quietly by the window, her eyes somewhat distant.


    as a skilled spy, acting, lying, and deceiving others were as easy for qin shuman as drinking water.


    but... a lie might deceive others, yet it can''t deceive oneself.


    although she had just rattled off many excuses when lin zuo questioned her, when she recalled the state she was in when she initially made the decision, it seemed that her first instinct was indeed to consider qiu tu...


    ''this isn''t a good sign....''


    with that thought, qin shuman looked at a "promotion notification" on her desk...


    just this morning, thanks to her excellent performance in the "yin caimei case" and uncovering the "larilo case," her military rank was promoted from captain to major.


    he had formally entered the middle ranks of the military.


    in terms of position, the department had, to show their trust in her, put her in charge of both the investigation department and the intelligence section.


    this level of attention was an affirmation of her intelligence work and also a reward for her efforts in pulling things back from the brink lately.


    but only qin shuman and the head of the security department dai yukang knew that the smooth sailing of the department''s work during this period was actually all thanks to qiu tu.


    the only difference was, qin shuman knew that qiu tu was intentionally letting her take some of the credit.


    meanwhile, dai yukang believed that it was qin shuman''s ability to have "won over" qiu tu and to have obtained so much important intelligence from him.


    thinking of this, qin shuman''s feelings toward qiu tu grew even more complicated....


    gazing out the window, qin shuman''s eyes seemed to penetrate layers of space, looking toward qiu tu....


    after a moment, qin shuman sighed softly and muttered to herself, "no matter what, i still have to do my job well first."


    having said that, she turned her attention to the pile of information and clues about larilo on the table, her gaze growing incredibly deep, "this evil god seems a bit odd...." s§×ar?h the ¦Çovelfire.¦Çet website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "i hope it doesn''t cause any major trouble...."


    finishing her thought, she took out her phone and started to call qiu tu....


    ...


    the planning area was forever a place where order and chaos intertwined.


    after officially coming under the control of the sanctuary and becoming the economic center of the surrounding area of xinjie city, bars, nightclubs, casinos, and brothels began to quietly spread throughout the city.


    at 6 pm.


    qiu tu, with dyed blue hair and dressed in leather clothing, wrapped his arm around liu fuping, who wore a red strappy dress and heavy makeup, as they entered the fatty fish bar.


    two underlings followed him, one was cao dabiao and the other was chen feng.


    the dress of the four men clearly showed they were wealthy young men from longshan road out for a good time.


    therefore, as soon as the four walked into the bar, a barmaid dressed in a low-cut short skirt hurried over with a smile to greet them.


    approaching qiu tu, the barmaid bent over and inquired, "hello, how may i help you four?"


    qiu tu size up the barmaid before him and deliberately flaunted a lecherous smile.


    he reached into the barmaid''s cleavage and groped around.


    a squeal from the barmaid accompanied qiu tu''s magical retrieval of a handful of silver yuan from "inside". explore stories on empire


    initially, the barmaid''s face was filled with embarrassment, but her eyes immediately lit up upon seeing the handful of silver yuan, and she quickly and gleefully said, "thank you, sir! thank you!"


    qiu tu dodged her hands with a chuckle, stuffing the silver yuan directly into her deep neckline while fondling her and asked, "it''s my first time at your bar, find us a good spot, will you?"


    to tell the truth, although the barmaid was rather plain, her bosom was both large and soft.


    the barmaid covered her chest to stop the silver yuan from falling out while tolerating qiu tu''s wandering hands and replied with a smile, "certainly, sir, this way please."


    watching qiu tu''s smooth moves, cao dabiao and chen feng felt they paled in comparison.


    they thought qiu tu''s acting was incredibly refined; just a few simple actions had established the image of a hedonistic young master.


    they scanned the interior of the bar.


    as one of the largest bars in xinjie city, the fatty fish bar was spacious. the ground floor, covering two thousand square meters, featured a glittering stage at the center with fan-shaped seating and a bar area around it.


    the night life having already kicked off, many patrons were already indulging in pleasure-seeking.


    when qiu tu had entered, several patrons glanced at him, but seeing qiu tu''s unrestrained demeanor, they just shared a knowing smile and looked away.


    and among them... was the target, the red-haired man in a suit.


    ''first step of the plan successful?''


    while they were contemplating, qiu tu, one arm around liu fuping and the other around the barmaid, headed towards a luxurious booth at the center of the stage area.


    under flashing neon lights accompanied by a dj beat that blended heavy metal and electronic music, and led by the barmaid, the four of them took their seats.


    perhaps because qiu tu had flaunted wealth upon entering the bar, it wasn''t long before scantily clad and seductively poised women with enchanting eyes crowded around, eager to have a drink with him.


    qiu tu, acting every bit the playboy, lounged with one leg crossed over the other while liu fuping massaged his leg. smoking a cigar lit by cao dabiao, he casually welcomed all comers!


    so, after a short while, the booth was surrounded by a flock of women, pushing even liu fuping to the outskirts....


    but she didn''t seem to mind and, following the plan, pretended to be angry and looked away from qiu tu!


    however, unbeknownst to others, her turned head was facing precisely in the direction of the man in the suit.


    thus, she could easily monitor every move of the man in the suit without any other effort....


    -----

 Chapter 154 Fallen for the Beauty Trap (A 10,000-word chapter, please subscribe!)

    today at noon, qiu tu received a phone call from qin shuman.over the phone, qin shuman told qiu tu that the security department had located the suit man''s whereabouts and provided a series of intelligence. explore stories on empire


    according to qin shuman''s briefing, suit man had begun appearing at the fatty fish bar a few days ago.


    at first, he came alone every night, reserving a booth to drink by himself.


    because he was generous with money and had a ruggedly handsome appearance, many girls would approach him to chat, drink his booze, and hang around his booth. s~ea??h the novel(f~)ire.net website on google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    and he never turned them away, lavishly treating all the girls who came up to him.


    this also meant that every night, he successfully took one or two girls away from the bar.


    many of these girls were part of the bar atmosphere group nurtured by the owner of fatty fish bar, and so they were also somewhat intimate with fatty fish normally.


    according to the information that fatty fish gathered from them, the suit man lived in a small villa near longshan road, commuted in a private car, and had several good-looking and gentle-tempered maids at home, which suggested that he was no ordinary man.


    when he was with these girls, although suit man''s behavior could be slightly violent and his actions a bit rough, on the whole, he seemed normal¡ªafter all, in times of chaos, people''s violent genes are naturally unlocked.


    the only thing that could be considered odd was that, just in the past two nights, suit man not only invited girls to drink but also... started inviting men to drink.


    he would pick out ''young masters'' in the bar who clearly came from noble families but lived dissolute lives to make a move on and actively befriend them over drinks.


    and last night, he had even taken away one such young master...


    since fatty fish didn''t have much of a personal connection with these young masters, he wasn''t clear on what the suit man talked about with them.


    when asking the girls who sat with them to drink, they also had no recollection, mentioning only that suit man seemed to hit it off with those young masters, arm in arm, as if they had been fast friends...


    after understanding all the intelligence provided by qin shuman, qiu tu pondered for a long time.


    he was deciding whether to just apprehend suit man and wang xi now and temporarily close the "8.16 pharmacy robbery case."


    or... should he continue to follow this lead and first probe the depths of that evil god.


    eventually, after weighing his options, he chose the latter.


    it wasn''t that he was truly curious about the evil god or that he harbored the ambition to save the world. he simply came to a clear realization: "when the nest is overturned, no egg remains unbroken."


    if the evil god had already silently descended upon xinjie city and begun to quietly expand his influence there, then even if qiu tu were to pretend to be an ostrich and ignore this matter... sooner or later, the evil god would have an impact on him.


    when the evil god accumulated enough power and was truly ready to make a move on xinjie city, as a resident of xinjie city and as a division head of the investigation bureau, qiu tu would inevitably have to face the evil god!


    especially since the evil god seemed to be somewhat "petty-minded." just because qiu tu made wang xi a little nervous, she immediately took notice of him.


    if qiu tu were to capture her two followers, she would probably be even less inclined to let him off.


    so, after much consideration, qiu tu found that a reconciliation with larilo was probably impossible.


    since... a showdown was inevitable, it would be better to strike while the enemy was still weak, rather than waiting for them to grow strong before acting!


    moreover... qiu tu always harbored a slightly impractical idea.


    that is... if the enemy of my enemy is my friend, could his two enemies possibly become each other''s enemies?


    "drive the wolf to devour the tiger" might not be such a bad strategy after all?


    thus, due to this series of considerations, qiu tu decided not to arrest suit man for the time being.


    instead, he would disguise himself as a young master and fish for suit man in the bar to see what he... and his "god" were up to...


    .....


    the dazzling led walls and unpredictable spinning spotlights sliced the fatty fish bar into a series of bizarre scenes.


    combined with the aroma of alcohol, scents, and tobacco, along with the fizz of champagne and the smell of cheap perfume, it was like the people in the bar were transported into a dream kingdom far removed from reality.


    qiu tu had an arm around each of the skimpily dressed girls, casually resting his leg atop another and smoking a cigar, all the while watching the seductively dancing woman before him with a beaming smile.


    they twisted their waists like snakes, with captivating glances, blooming like enchanting flowers in the dark night, each move quickening the heartbeat of men.


    as a hunter, qiu tu had always been patient. he wasn''t focusing on his target at all, immersively engaging in various interactions with the girls as if he were genuinely seeking pleasure.


    such professional attitude and exquisite acting not only earned the admiration of cao dabiao and chen feng, who were guarding him, but even the officers from the security department watching qiu tu''s actions in the bar''s surveillance room were somewhat surprised.


    "is this the legendary qiu tu who solved the yin caimei case?"


    "he''s so convincing. it looks like he''s really getting into it. not a single flaw to be seen. it seems the target will be hooked soon."


    hearing the comments of the few officers, lin zuo, who came on duty tonight, glanced at them expressionlessly, then fixed his eyes on the monitor, his face betraying a hint of hesitation...


    frankly, he had the impression that qiu tu wasn''t just acting...

 Chapter 154 Fallen for the Beauty Trap (A 10,000-word chapter, please subscribe!)_2

    ''''''''This guy isn''t really enjoying himself there, is he...?''


    ''I should call Section Chief Kong over to see, let her witness Qiu Tu''s true colors...''


    And so, he lived it up, indulged for a night.


    At 11 p.m., Qiu Tu got up to leave the Fatty Fish Bar, drunk, reeking of perfume, and with lipstick marks all over his cheeks and neck.


    It wasn''t clear whether Suit Man had noticed something off, or if he was just too cautious, but he hadn''t approached Qiu Tu all evening.


    Qiu Tu didn''t care.


    If not tonight, then tomorrow night. If not tomorrow night, then the night after.


    After all, he was spending case funds, so he wasn''t heartbroken over it.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu stood up with two girls in his arms, and slurred, "Tonight, you two are coming with me, okay?!"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the two girls pounced into his arms, one after the other, as excited as if they had won a victory, almost ready to jump for joy.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu "ha ha" laughed, preparing to leave the bar with the two girls in tow.


    But just then, he suddenly caught a whiff of a faint, familiar, sweet scent.


    However, when he tried to smell it again, he found that he couldn''t detect anything.


    At the same time, a magnetic male voice sounded from behind him, "Hello? My friend."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu turned to look and saw a slightly roguish, pale-faced man dressed in a suit with red-dyed hair, smiling at him¡ªit was none other than Suit Man, Qiu Tu''s target for the evening.


    Upon seeing his target appear, a sense of vigilance instantly sprang up in Qiu Tu''s heart.


    And recalling the familiar whiff just a moment ago... Qiu Tu knew the man had used the Mandragora Love Drug.


    Thinking thus, he pretended to be more intoxicated and replied, "Do you need something...?"


    At the same time, he stealthily glanced at the two girls in his arms.


    Indeed... under the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug, both girls'' eyes were somewhat hazy and, even in Qiu Tu''s arms, their gazes uncontrollably wandered towards Suit Man.


    As Qiu Tu observed and assessed, Suit Man spoke up. He laughed, lifted his glass in a toast to Qiu Tu, and showed a grin that seemed detached from this world, asking, "Do you mind staying for another drink, my friend?"


    Truth be told, whether it was the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug or that Suit Man was indeed charismatic, Qiu Tu really felt no impulse to refuse at that moment.


    So, he smiled and nodded at Suit Man, "Of course."


    Seeing Qiu Tu "bite," Suit Man cornered a smile and gestured to him, then led Qiu Tu to his booth.


    As Qiu Tu and others followed the target out, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Liu Fuping thought about following. However, Qiu Tu seemed to guess their intentions and, feigning drunkenness, waved them off, signaling them to wait where they were.


    Though a bit worried, the three sat back down in their seats in the face of the target''s glance.


    Upon reaching Suit Man''s booth, Qiu Tu slapped the two girls'' cute bottoms, telling them to go play nearby, and then sat next to Suit Man himself.


    Suit Man chuckled at this, then took the initiative to open a new bottle of wine and poured a glass for Qiu Tu, asking, "May I know my friend''s name?"


    Qiu Tu, tongue thick, said, "My surname is Jia, you can call me Jia Shu."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu then drunkenly asked, "And you, my friend, what''s your name?"


    On hearing this, Suit Man replied, "You can call me Fellow."


    "Fellow...?" Qiu Tu muttered the name carelessly, but he knew in his heart that it must be a fake name or a title.


    After all, if he wasn''t mistaken, some sects referred to their low-level members as ''Fellows''.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu put an arm around Suit Man''s neck and drunkenly queried, "Brother Fellow, did you call me over to discuss something?"


    "To tell you the truth, I''m not someone who likes to make friends. But when I saw you, I felt an instant connection."


    Suit Man looked slightly smug upon hearing this, then said, "Do you believe in ''God,'' brother?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu feigned astonishment for a moment, then "ha ha" laughingly said, "God?"


    "If there were a God, would this world be in such chaos?"


    ''''''


    ``` Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ha ha ha."


    Suit Man followed with a chuckle, then quickly changed his tone, "What if... all of this is what ''God'' wanted to achieve?"


    "''God'' believes that this world is filled with Order, that all beings are living too suppressed a life!"


    "Go to school, study, take exams, fall in love, graduate, work! Get married! Have children! Then educate your children to continue going to school! Continue studying!"


    "Then, wait for your children to fall in love! Work! Get married! Have more children!"


    "The beings of this world are like they''re bound by rigid Order, unable to do what they truly want to do!"


    "Unable to indulge in pleasure! Unable to freely unleash their desires!"


    Qiu Tu looked like he was taking it in, silently stroking his chin.


    Seeing this, Suit Man''s face revealed a slight smile.


    He leaned closer to Qiu Tu, continuing to seduce him, "But brother, have you ever thought about it?"


    "Life was never meant to be bound!"


    "Life is meant to be free!"


    His voice sounded ethereal as he said, "So... ''God'' appeared."


    "He destroyed the Order of the world, plunging everything into Chaos! Returning beings to times of turmoil!"


    It must be said, Suit Man had a knack for manipulating people. After hearing his sermon, Qiu Tu felt an urge to resign right away, to go out, to admire this extraordinary world!


    Therefore, without much pretense, Qiu Tu eagerly asked, "So... what did ''God'' bring us back to this Chaos for?"


    Upon hearing this, Suit Man smiled and pulled over the young woman he had brought with him today.


    She was about twenty-five or twenty-six, dressed in a strappy long dress with a small cashmere coat over it, exuding a gentle and graceful air.


    Her features were somewhat delicate, her figure excellent, especially her ample bosom, which was somewhat overwhelming.


    When she sat still, she had the gentle temperament of a lady. However, when she came over to Qiu Tu, he noticed that her eyes seemed to twinkle with the flames of a newly ignited fire...


    Qiu Tu glanced at Suit Man, puzzled.


    Yet Suit Man gestured to the young woman.


    Obediently, she straddled Qiu Tu''s lap and grabbed his hand, slipping it inside her coat.


    That moment was soft and smooth to the touch.


    Qiu Tu was startled and looked down. It was then, in the dim light of the bar, that he realized she wasn''t wearing anything under her cashmere coat!


    And the outside strappy long dress was merely a ruse! The straps inside were already torn off, doing nothing to cover anything at all!


    In that moment, Qiu Tu was baffled: Was this world so progressive that even this kind of public exposure was a thing?


    And... what was Suit Man doing? Was he letting this woman use a Beauty Trap on him?


    As Qiu Tu thought this, Suit Man spoke. His face was full of cynicism and smugness, "Brother, do you know who she is?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a second, then shook his head. Your next read awaits at empire


    Suit Man leaned in, whispering softly, "She''s the wife of Xinjie City''s Education Bureau''s Section Chief Kong..."


    To be honest, that really startled Qiu Tu!


    The movements of his hands, which were caressing her, froze instantly!


    However, perhaps this was the reaction Suit Man was looking for.


    So, he "heh heh" laughed while patting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t be nervous. Section Chief Kong has already been locked up. What are you afraid of!"


    After that, he winked at Qiu Tu, asking mischievously, "So how is it? Is Section Chief Kong''s wife big? Is she smooth?"


    ---------


    ```

 Chapter 155 First Contact with the Evil God (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu: ....Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu really felt that Suit Man and Wang Xi had lost their minds.


    Previously, through a memory fragment, he had witnessed Suit Man in the villa that night, proclaiming he had received "God''s" instructions and was ready to make a big move!


    But... he truly did not expect the two to dare to do something so outrageous!


    The wife of a section chief, a well-bred lady, just brought out into the public like that, and treated in such a manner!


    Perhaps misinterpreting Qiu Tu''s silence as complicity, Suit Man nudged him with his shoulder and then, with an evil expression, said, "And what is a section chief''s wife, after all."


    "Let me tell you, under ''God''s'' guidance, we will build a beautiful new world!"


    He began his speech again, "As living beings, what is our first instinct?"


    "It is reproduction!"


    "So! Let us release our nature! Don''t care about status! Don''t care about human social rules!"


    "If you want it, take it! If you want to do it, do it! Let those restrictions no longer hinder our reproduction!"


    "Let life burst forth with its true power!"


    As Suit Man became more and more impassioned, Qiu Tu knew he had to play along. So, while fondling inside Madame Kong''s coat, he also said excitedly, "Can this really be achieved?!"


    Upon hearing this, Suit Man smiled slowly, "Of course! As long as... you believe in ''God''!"


    Hearing that, Qiu Tu knew the critical moment had arrived. So, with a look of longing, he asked, "Then how can I believe in ''God''?"


    Suit Man produced a pink card, smiling mysteriously, "This card is the token to contact God."


    "Just keep this card by your side, and at night, you''ll meet with God in your dreams..."


    Seeing the token so easily offered, Qiu Tu even hesitated a bit.


    But he didn''t show it on his face, intentionally gazing eagerly at the card while his left hand continued to clutch Madame Kong''s softness, and his right hand stretched out from her embrace, eager to take the card.


    Just then, Suit Man sharply retracted his hand, then, smiling at Qiu Tu, said, "To meet ''God,'' you must be sincere."


    "So, I can''t just give you this card. You need to pay a Little Goldfish to buy it."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Honestly, at that moment, Qiu Tu had a big question mark over his head and ten thousand "facepalming" emojis running wild in his mind!


    ''What''s going on? Have I met a colleague?''


    ''Could this guy not be some Evil God Cultist but just a scammer?!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment.


    He looked closely at Suit Man for a while, scrutinizing him.


    After confirming... that he was the same person he had seen in Wang Xi''s memory, he finally took out a Little Goldfish and slapped it into Suit Man''s hand!


    Seeing the Little Goldfish, Suit Man''s face suddenly showed a hint of madness, but... the next second it disappeared.


    He handed the pink card to Qiu Tu with satisfaction, and then in an ethereal voice said, "Very good. It seems, brother, you truly are devout. Accept this gift, and believe me, ''God'' will bless you!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Honestly, listening to that familiar spiel, Qiu Tu felt more and more like he had been tricked.


    Thus, Qiu Tu spent a Little Goldfish, with a purchasing power of 160,000 RMB from his previous life, to buy an ordinary-looking pink card...


    The only thing that made him feel it wasn''t a complete loss was that Suit Man, before leaving, arranged to meet again in the bar the next day aside from leaving Madame Kong, who was nearly a stranger, with Qiu Tu.


    According to him, this was a gift from ''God'' to his follower. And he assured her she was clean and that he hadn''t touched her.


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu only had one question: Did Section Chief Kong consent to this ''gift'' during its preparation?


    ...


    And so, after bidding farewell to Suit Man,


    Qiu Tu embraced Madame Kong and got into his car.


    He drove to a small villa near Longshan Road and gradually brought the car to a stop.


    This was the temporary residence Qiu Tu had applied for using his authority, to better disguise himself as a wealthy scion.


    After parking the car, Qiu Tu glanced complicatedly at Madame Kong sitting in the passenger seat.


    From the bar to the villa, Madame Kong hadn''t said a word.


    Qiu Tu tried to communicate with her, but she seemed completely lost in her own world, only giving Qiu Tu intense stares...


    As if she were a living, breathing doll with a special purpose...


    This discovery made Qiu Tu even more wary of Suit Man, and of the Evil God behind him.


    He got out of the car, unlocked the door, and entered the living room, still holding Madame Kong.


    Qiu Tu told Madame Kong to rest on the sofa, while he went to the door to smoke a cigarette.


    After finishing the cigarette, two cars slowly approached from a distance, stopping one after the other in the yard of the villa.


    Lin Zuo, Liu Fuping, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and several specialists from the Security Department got out of the two cars.


    After coming down, Qiu Tu exchanged glances with them and then shook his head towards the inside.


    A few of them understood and stepped forward, taking out a compass-shaped treasure to scan over Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, the officer using the treasure shook his head at Lin Zuo.


    Lin Zuo glanced at Qiu Tu, then pointed inside the room.


    The officer, accompanied by Liu Fuping, walked into the room and scanned Madame Kong with the treasure once again.


    Seeing that the treasure did not trigger any alarm outside, Lin Zuo, who was leaning on the railing next to Qiu Tu, said expressionlessly, "There are no fluctuations of Cataclysmic treasures, so there shouldn''t be any surveillance or listening devices left on you."


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment, without much surprise. Enjoy exclusive content from empire


    Because he knew how successful his disguise was that evening, he almost fooled himself with his own "disguise" of debauchery. Therefore, it was normal for Suit Man not to suspect anything.


    Seeing how calm Qiu Tu was, Lin Zuo added expressionlessly, "So, there''s also some bad news."


    "The card the target gave you... is very likely a fake."


    "After all, it doesn''t seem to have any traces of Catastrophe Power on it either."


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu took out the pink card from his pocket and while smoking, he fiddled with it, looking at it.


    The card was made of thick cardboard and felt slightly coarse to the touch. It had no text on it, only an image on the front that resembled important female organs, and looked somewhat suggestive.


    As Qiu Tu looked at the card, he slowly said, "Maybe... this card is just a smokescreen?"


    "Actually... after he approached me, he had already chosen me as the target?"


    Lin Zuo was noncommittal, "Possible."


    At this point, he changed the tone of his voice, "But... it is even more likely that he was simply trying to swindle your money. After all, according to the intelligence, he didn''t ask for money from those young masters in the past few days either."


    "So... you probably won''t get any clues for the money you spent."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "How could that be possible? I''ve made a second preparation."


    ¡ª¡ªWhen Qiu Tu had close contact with Suit Man, he had already slapped a new [Silver Key Bee] onto his body.


    So, whether the card was real or fake, by the day after tomorrow at the latest, Qiu Tu would know all the details of Suit Man''s movements over the next two days; thereby, Qiu Tu would still obtain a lot of information.


    Therefore, even if it was just for the chance of close contact with Suit Man, the money Qiu Tu spent as Little Goldfish was worth it.


    As for the connection with Larilo, it would be great to have it; if not, no loss.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu raised the pink card in his hand and then looked up at Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao.


    He hesitated between the two, but eventually waved to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, Chen Feng strode over and asked seriously, "Chief, you wanted to see me?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment and passed the pink card to him.


    "When you sleep tonight, keep this card close to your body."


    "I''ll rest as usual."


    "Let''s see which one of us will receive the ''God''s'' summoning."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused and then added, "If you do get summoned, there''s no need to panic. Just follow the plan I set up for tonight."


    Chen Feng nodded solemnly and carefully put away the card upon hearing this.


    With these arrangements made, Qiu Tu had initially completed his plans for the evening.


    They all went their separate ways.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping stayed in this temporary villa. While Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao moved into the temporary villa on the left.


    As for Madame Kong, she was temporarily taken by the Security Department to the villa on the right for inspection: the Security Department would try to figure out what kind of Cataclysmic ability Madame Kong had contracted and how to counteract it.


    As everyone returned to their respective villas, Qiu Tu, with Liu Fuping''s slender waist in his arm, also returned to the small villa.


    Since Qiu Tu had an "appointment" with Larilo that night, nothing happened between the two. They just took a bath together and then went to bed.


    Qiu Tu slowly drifted off to sleep as planned, while Liu Fuping lay beside him, quietly guarding him to prevent any accidents from occurring.


    The reason Qiu Tu had applied for the three neighbouring villas as temporary operation bases for the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department was to be able to provide mutual support at any time and to deal immediately with emergencies should any arise.


    And so... as the blue moonlight cascaded down, it tranquilly blanketed the land of Xinjie City.


    Qiu Tu slowly entered the realm of dreams. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was unclear how long had passed, maybe a minute, or maybe an hour...


    In his sleep, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a soft voice calling near his ear, "Jia Shu... Jia Shu..."


    At first, Qiu Tu didn''t react to the voice, but as the calling persisted, he suddenly realized!


    He slowly opened his eyes.


    And then he found himself seemingly in a pure white world made entirely of mist.


    And a beautiful girl was sitting on a throne, quietly watching him...


    ---------

 Chapter 156 Evil God: Jia Shu is My Believer (10,000 Words Please Subscribe)

    Qiu Tu tentatively raised his head to look at the beautiful young girl.Her elegant, egg-shaped face was suffused with a gentle luster. Her eyes were large, round, and clear like apricot kernels with stars held within.


    She appeared to be only fifteen or sixteen years old, exuding a youthful maidenly charm.


    Her face, while ought to radiate innocence, was instead filled with seductiveness, each grin and frown seemingly capable of drawing one deep into temptation...


    It was a striking contrast of purity and allure.


    ''This... is Larilo?''


    Qiu Tu looked up at the "Deity" before him, somewhat puzzled.


    Honestly, if he didn''t know that this "Deity" was a high-ranking Cataclysmic Creature, he would have thought she was just a girl who was exceedingly beautiful.


    At that moment, Larilo, who sat enthroned as a god, also slowly parted her lips to speak.


    Her voice was soft and coquettish, reminiscent of a chanteuse''s gentle humming, "Jia Shu... are you willing to become my devout follower~~?"


    Hearing that tickling voice and seeing Larilo'' s innocent appearance, umm... Qiu Tu felt somewhat tempted.


    After all... it''s said that some religious followers have duties to serve the deities.


    If he could serve the Heretic Goddess Girl before him, Qiu Tu felt it wouldn''t be a loss.


    However... despite what he was thinking, Qiu Tu hadn''t forgotten the true purpose of his meeting with Larilo tonight ¨C to gather intelligence.


    So, after a moment of thought, he didn''t directly answer Larilo''s question but instead looked at her with a longing gaze and slowly began to speak, "From the moment I was born, I''ve always felt as if I was carrying a mission on my shoulders."


    "I seem to have been waiting for someone''s arrival, always hoping to stay by her side..."


    "But I''ve been lost, not knowing whom I am waiting for or why I should wait for her..."


    "Now, I understand..."


    With that, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with fervent eyes and took steps toward her.


    Rule number one of "Gathering Intelligence": Don''t let your conversation be dominated by the other party''s rhythm.


    Sure enough, following Qiu Tu''s unexpected "confession," Larilo''s train of thought was interrupted, and her eyebrows visibly furrowed.


    But being a Heretic Goddess adept at bewitching hearts, clearly, Larilo was not a simple character.


    So, she chuckled behind her hand and gave a gentle wave.


    Suddenly, the misty steps between the two seemed to be severed, creating a vast chasm.


    Qiu Tu''s advance was blocked, and he had to stop.


    Larilo sat on her divine throne, watching Qiu Tu with a captivating smile, "Want to come closer to me~~?"


    "You can. But... only my followers can approach me~~"


    "So... do you want to become my follower?"


    Hearing Larilo repeatedly ask this question, Qiu Tu immediately became extremely cautious.


    Therefore, he still didn''t give a direct answer but continued to probe with a smile, "Why can only your followers come close to you?"


    "Shouldn''t the glory of ''God'' shine upon all mankind?"


    At these words, Larilo let out a soft laugh, then, sitting on her throne, she crossed her slender legs, "''God''s'' glory indeed shines upon all mankind. But... that doesn''t mean everyone has the privilege to approach the Deity."


    "If every ordinary person could get close to the Deity, then what would be the difference between the Deity''s followers and ordinary people? How could they serve the Deity any better?" S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As she spoke, Larilo''s clear apricot eyes once again locked onto Qiu Tu, teasingly asking, "So, are you truly willing to become my follower... Director Qiu?"


    At first, as Larilo argued with him about whether "ordinary people" could approach the "Deity," Qiu Tu wasn''t particularly moved.


    After all, the only reason he was discussing these points was to engage Larilo in idle chatter and to build a mental model of her character to analyze what type of woman this Heretic Goddess Girl truly was.


    But before he could finish constructing the model, his cover was blown!


    At that moment, Qiu Tu really felt as if the hairs all over his body were standing on end!


    He was eager to use the "warning method" taught to him by the Security Department to alert Liu Fuping and have those outside help him exit the dream.


    But... when he was about to actually do it, he hesitated. Explore stories on empire


    Because he felt a bit unwilling...


    The rare opportunity to face this Heretic Goddess and extract some intelligence was at hand, but running away at the first hint of danger seemed too cowardly.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu remembered that the Security Department had explained to him that "Enter Dream" is a basic ability of Cataclysmic Creatures with "Divinity" living in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    For that reason, this ability wasn''t as powerful as one might think.


    It''s not just killing Qiu Tu in the dream that would be difficult, even hurting him in the dream would likely be challenging.


    After all... the Spirit World is merged with the material world, but there remains a strong barrier between the two worlds.


    To purely rely on mental power to forcibly harm a person in the material world within a dream would require a significant amount of energy.


    It was this piece of education that gave Qiu Tu the courage to meet Larilo in the dream and to engage with her back and forth...


    Otherwise, with his usually cautious nature, he would not have risked placing himself in such a dangerous situation.


    ''I can hold on a bit longer! Try to chat more!'' he thought.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu suppressed his anxiety and dropped the pretense.


    He stared straight at the Heretic Goddess Girl in front of him, then said with a smile, "I never expected even the great ''God'' to know my name. It seems... my fame is really high now!"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t run away, Larilo''s eyes turned into curved rainbows, as she looked at Qiu Tu like prey and continued to drop bombshells with a giggle, "Actually... I not only know you. I have also seen you."


    Qiu Tu''s pupils shrank slightly, and his heart suddenly pounded.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s reaction, Larilo laughed even more joyously. She said, "And... not only have I seen you, but I have also heard many followers talk about you."


    Qiu Tu was startled once again. He suddenly felt that things were getting out of control...


    He was tempted to probe Larilo and her followers'' identities further.


    But before he could speak, Larilo looked at Qiu Tu with a devilish grin and bluntly asked, "Do you want to know who I am? Also, do you want to know... who my followers are?"


    At this point, Larilo winked at Qiu Tu, "It''s no harm to tell you."


    "After all, even if you know, it won''t affect us."


    "One of my followers... is your superior, the person whose name you''ve used..."


    Qiu Tu was shocked, "Jia Shu?"


    Larilo nodded with a smile, "Surprised?"


    Honestly, Qiu Tu suddenly understood how Yan Chen had felt when facing him¡ªit was one bombshell after another, truly enough to make his brain buzz with the inability to think.


    Making his entire head hum.


    However, precisely because of this, Qiu Tu forced himself to calm down even more.


    He knew that the more such a situation occurred, the less he could afford to panic, the less he could follow the opponent''s rhythm.


    After all... Yan Chen had been "played" by him in just this manner.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took several deep breaths and put a confident smile back on his face.


    He smiled and continued to probe, "Minister Jia is your follower?"


    "Honestly, I find that a bit hard to believe."


    "With his ascetic demeanor on a daily basis, could he be a follower of a deity whose domain is ''Reproduction''?"


    Larilo, hearing this, laughed even more merrily, her crimson eyes looking at Qiu Tu as she dramatically asked, "Are you~~ really sure your Minister Jia is an ascetic?"


    "If I remember correctly, his favorite thing is to dissect the bodies of women, right?"


    "Do you want to visit his villa''s basement? Perhaps... there are many surprising things there~~"


    Larilo was like a devil, looking at Qiu Tu with a teasing gaze, her face filled with an evil smile, "Like... the reproductive organs of young girls..."


    Qiu Tu: !!


    Perhaps fearing that the shock for Qiu Tu wasn''t great enough,


    Larilo continued with a smile, "And... guess why I dare tell you all this."


    "Because... you won''t live for two more days."


    She counted on her fingers, and her stunning face seemed to truly express a girl''s innocence, "At the latest, by the night after next, your Minister Jia should be preparing to assassinate you on my command."


    "Are you sure you can escape from the hands of such a skilled Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened?"


    At this point, Larilo''s eyes narrowed into rainbows again, seductively saying, "So... become my follower, Qiu Tu."


    "Let''s fill the world with life together!"


    "Let reproduction become the true power of humanity!"


    "No matter your status, married or not, no matter the place or occasion! No matter how many!"


    "As long as you want! You can!"


    "Let''s change this world together!"


    ...


    "Whew!"


    When Qiu Tu suddenly awoke from his dream, he was dripping with sweat!


    He opened his eyes, and then realized that Liu Fuping, Lin Zuo, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and several officers from the Security Department were all beside him.


    Liu Fuping, Cao Dabiao, and even Chen Feng, who usually wore a stoic expression, were gathered around his bed, looking at him with concern.


    Meanwhile, Lin Zuo and the Security Department officers were clustered by his side, using instruments to check his physical condition.


    Seeing everyone there, Qiu Tu''s face looked a bit grim, "Did I exhibit some abnormality just now?"


    Lin Zuo, with his arms crossed and an expressionless face, said, "Obviously. Just now, you were extremely agitated, and a strong abnormal Catastrophe Power emanated from you."


    "Agent Liu was worried something was wrong, so he quickly called us over, forcibly waking you."


    At this point, Lin Zuo couldn''t help asking, "Did you meet that Evil God just now? What did it say, what did it do?"


    "Why did it provoke such a strong reaction from you?"


    ------


    There was some business at the company, so I''ve been very busy all day. It delayed the manuscript. Sorry about that! Continuing with ten thousand words tonight!

 Chapter 157 Jia Shu Attempts to Forcefully Kill Qiu Tu (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered, and he fell silent for a moment.He recalled his entire conversation with Larilo in the dream.


    It had to be said... truly worthy of being an Evil God who toyed and manipulated Old Master Qin for decades¡ªLarilo indeed had some tricks up her sleeve.


    From the moment she pulled him into the dream, she almost completely dictated the pace of the entire conversation.


    From taking the initiative at the beginning, forcing him to become her devout follower; to exposing his identity; then revealing the secret that Jia Shu was her follower; and finally, disclosing Jia Shu''s plan to kill him forcefully!


    Step by step, layer upon layer, she continuously pressured Qiu Tu, pushing him to submit to her.


    Putting aside whether what she said was true or false, just her skill at manipulating people''s hearts was no weaker than Qiu Tu''s.


    Moreover, her understanding of Qiu Tu was clearly much greater than his understanding of her.


    Therefore, in their initial clash, Qiu Tu was immediately overwhelmed.


    ''I didn''t lose unjustly this time....''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu''s gaze grew dimmer as he reflected in the dark¡­


    Since his arrival in this world, although Qiu Tu had been constantly surrounded by crises, everything had gone smoothly thanks to his various cunning maneuvers.


    Especially by leveraging his advantage in information and his familiarity with the human heart, Qiu Tu had managed to play all the big shots and numerous forces at will. This had gradually led to complacency within him.


    He believed that as long as he continued like this, he would eventually climb to the summit.


    But this defeat made him vigilant once again.


    With such a vast world and so many experts, he was far from the point where he could afford to be proud or relax!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, now calmer, didn''t immediately start to recall and ponder the information that Larilo revealed in her words.


    First, he gave a reassuring smile to the people gathered around him, then gave a simple explanation to Lin Zuo, "Indeed, I was pulled into a dream by that Evil God and had a brief exchange with her."


    "But no worries, she didn''t harm me, and she probably hasn''t used any techniques on me."


    As he spoke, the several agents from the Security Department finally finished their thorough examination of Qiu Tu.


    They stood up from the bed and shook their heads toward Lin Zuo.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo looked at Qiu Tu expressionlessly and inquired, "Then... did you obtain any information?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t deny it, "I did. But it needs to be sorted out first."


    "I''ll ponder over it for a while. Once I have results, I''ll share them with you."


    Lin Zuo, who was not the type to probe too deeply, nodded upon hearing this and then said to Qiu Tu, "It must have taken a fair amount of energy for the Evil God to enter your dreams."


    "After seeking you out tonight, she likely won''t come for a second time."


    "So, you should rest well."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded....


    After Lin Zuo and his delegation left, Qiu Tu stood up and walked out to the balcony of the bedroom.


    It was now deep autumn; the night breeze blew, bringing a hint of coolness.


    Qiu Tu leaned on the balcony railing, gazing at the scenery outside. He reached into his pocket for a cigarette, only to realize he was wearing pajamas with no pockets.


    Just then, Liu Fuping quietly walked up behind him, draped a sleeping robe over him, and then handed him a box of cigarettes.


    Qiu Tu glanced down at the woman beside him.


    Worry filled her eyes.


    Qiu Tu smiled, smoothed her hair, then lit a cigarette while embracing her slender waist. He squinted and smoked quietly...


    The glowing cigarette end flickered with his breath against the night sky, rhythmically appearing and disappearing, much like his now settled mood....


    In the bedroom, Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng saw the harmonious scene on the balcony and exchanged a glance, then quietly left the villa....


    After they left, Liu Fuping snuggled up to Qiu Tu and asked with concern, "Is the situation very complicated?"


    At her words, a bitter smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. It''s not just complicated¡ªit''s like a puzzle....


    Firstly, one thing Qiu Tu could be certain of was... there must be an internal spy in the Investigation Bureau. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The simplest reason was, Larilo knew him too well, almost as if she had studied him for a long time.


    But Qiu Tu... was almost certain that it wasn''t Wang Xi who told her.


    There were two reasons.


    First, before yesterday, Qiu Tu and Larilo were almost unrelated in Wang Xi''s view.


    It was only after Wang Xi learned about Qiu Tu''s promotion and his responsibility for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" last night that he began to feel wary.


    And according to what Qiu Tu knew about Wang Xi and Suit Man, Wang Xi seemed to meet with Suit Man only on weekends.


    Plus, it didn''t seem like Wang Xi had the means to contact Larilo directly, so even if Wang Xi had intended to report Qiu Tu''s situation to Larilo, he likely hadn''t had the chance to do so yet.


    Second, and more importantly, Qiu Tu remembered a memory fragment of Wang Xi that he had once reviewed.


    In that memory fragment, Suit Man had received a hint from Larilo not long after the Security Department began its substantial arrest operation, instructing him to start a plan.


    That day, Qiu Tu didn''t ask Wang Xi to help in the Bureau, and Wang Xi had stayed with Suit Man throughout.


    This indicated that there must be a fourth person signaling to Larilo, alerting her to the major upheaval in Xinjie City''s upper echelons that night!


    Moreover, that person must be from the middle or upper levels of the Investigation Bureau.


    After all... the operations that night, although significant, weren''t something ordinary people could know about.

 Chapter 157 Jia Shu Attempts to Forcefully Kill Qiu Tu (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    ''Is it really Jia Shu?''With that thought, Qiu Tu quietly took a drag on his cigarette...


    To tell the truth, even though Larilo''s reason seemed valid, and when thinking deeply about Jia Shu''s series of actions to cover up the Yin Caimei case before that indeed harbored much suspicion,


    But... Qiu Tu really had some doubts about whether Jia Shu could be a follower of Larilo.


    After all... If Jia Shu really was a follower of Larilo and even intended to kill him forcefully, then why would Larilo warn him in advance?


    Wouldn''t that just make him more vigilant?


    Moreover, the most important thing was... Jia Shu was planning to attack him, but he hadn''t received any alert from ''Crisis Intuition''!


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hesitate.


    ''Could it be that Larilo is... playing the same game of driving the wolf to devour the tiger as I am?''


    "She doesn''t know I have a backup plan, so she intentionally sows discord between Jia Shu and me, making us face off against each other, and then she profits from the chaos...?"


    With that thought, Qiu Tu furrowed his brows and took the last drag of his cigarette, then readied to throw it to the ground and stomp it out.


    However, before he could act, Liu Fuping''s hand reached out, and an ashtray appeared in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then he lowered his head to glance at her, only receiving a gentle smile in return.


    This is the charm of a married woman...


    While inwardly marveling, Qiu Tu pressed out his cigarette in the ashtray.


    Just then,


    suddenly, a flash crossed his vision.


    The next second, rows of prompts appeared before his eyes.


    ''Crisis Intuition triggered! Generating crisis report!''


    ''Your superior, the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department, Jia Shu, has finally made up his mind to eliminate you.''


    ''As a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, he is an existence that you cannot currently stop, and even the "Trigger Paper Figure" might not be able to save your life.''


    ''He will make his move by tomorrow night at the latest.''


    ''You have only two days to prepare.''


    ''If within two days, you do not convince him to abandon this thought, or if you do not have the strength to survive his attack, then you will indeed die an unnatural death.''


    ''Now, a 48-hour countdown begins.''


    Qiu Tu: ??


    My goodness, seeing the countdown pop up before his eyes, Qiu Tu really felt as if his face had been slapped till swollen.


    Jia Shu actually really intended to kill him?


    And the timing was also just before tomorrow night?


    Wasn''t that too much of a coincidence!


    Could it be... Jia Shu was really a follower of Larilo?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s every move halted!


    Although his gut feeling told him something was off, as if he was missing some crucial detail, there indeed was no other explanation for now.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s resolve solidified!


    Whether it was a ploy of driving the wolf to devour the tiger, or whether Larilo had other motives, the fact was clear that Jia Shu was preparing to take action against him!


    He had been planning to deal with Jia Shu recently, so there was no hesitation!


    Now Jia Shu wanted to take action against him, just fine, he could use this opportunity to set up a trap in advance, to counterattack!


    So... he shouldn''t be thinking about all these unnecessary things anymore; he should simplify the situation!


    Such as figuring out self-preservation or... calling for help!


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was contemplating, Liu Fuping noticed something was off.


    Liu Fuping asked with concern, "What''s wrong? Did something happen?"


    Qiu Tu pulled himself back from his thoughts and said to Liu Fuping with a sharp look, "Get me the communicator."


    "The one used to contact the Security Department."


    Liu Fuping, seeing his reaction, knew that Qiu Tu must have thought of something important, so she didn''t press further and simply "Hmm"ed, turning around to head back to the bedroom to fetch the communicator.


    Soon, she approached Qiu Tu with her delicate steps and handed him the specially made communicator from the Security Department.


    Qiu Tu took the customized communicator and made a call to Qin Shuman.


    It was one o''clock in the morning. Qin Shuman wasn''t asleep. Having just received a promotion, she was sorting through the work of two departments by the dim light of her office lamp, working overtime.


    "Ring, ring, ring."


    When she heard her communicator sound off, she glanced over from her work. As soon as she saw it was Qiu Tu calling, she reflexively answered immediately.


    "Qiu Tu? Calling me so late, has something happened?"


    Hearing the woman''s concerned voice on the other end of the line, Qiu Tu didn''t speak yet, as Liu Fuping yawned and walked back to the bedroom. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu watched her leave and then spoke to Qin Shuman, "I want to ask, if there is a high-ranking official in the Investigation Bureau suspected of being an Evil God Cultist, then... can you directly investigate him?"


    Startled by Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman paused.


    Under the dim light, she didn''t directly answer Qiu Tu''s question but set down her pen and said carefully, "Qiu Tu. Whether someone is an Evil God Cultist can be detected with specialized equipment."


    "And most of the mid to high-level officials in the cities of the Planning Area are Cataclysmics. Thus, after the Sanctuary selected them, they were subjected to testing."


    "If it wasn''t detected then... given a Cataclysmic''s understanding of their own powers, it would be quite difficult to become an Evil God Cultist in just a short year."


    "After all... the Evil God is just a High Order Cataclysmic Creature. The power it can offer to ordinary Cataclysmics is limited."


    "Most likely, the mid and high-level officials would not give up their positions and status to cross that line..."


    "So... we cannot simply bring in a high-ranking official for examination without any clues."


    Having said that, Qin Shuman asked back, "Which high-level official in the Investigation Bureau do you suspect?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t feel the need to be evasive with Qin Shuman.


    So he responded straightforwardly without hesitation, "Jia Shu."


    "I suspect Jia Shu is very likely to be an Evil God Cultist, or at least has some kind of connection with the Evil God!"


    Explaining this, Qiu Tu also briefly described his encounter with Larilo to Qin Shuman.


    And at the end, Qiu Tu added, "And just now, I received news that Jia Shu might... indeed be preparing to make a move against me."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s conjecture, Qin Shuman also seemed hesitant, "Jia Shu is going to make a move on you?"


    "But... you''ve just been promoted to Principal Staff and are about to be officially included in the Sanctuary''s register, right?"


    "If he kills you now, it''s likely to bring up a lot of quest..."


    Mid-sentence, Qin Shuman suddenly paused, then realized, "No wonder Jia Shu is planning to act against you by the evening after tomorrow at the latest."


    "Your promotion to Principal Staff just came through, and being registered in the Sanctuary''s book, in accordance with the procedure, would take about two days or so."


    "So, at the latest, by the morning after the day after tomorrow, you should be officially registered."


    "That''s why Jia Shu has chosen to make his move against you before tomorrow night."


    "Looking at it this way, everything does seem to make sense," she said.


    Now distinctly worried, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment before saying, "We really can''t investigate Jia Shu directly."


    "But... this is what we''ll do. For the next two days, I''ll arrange for two teams of specialists from the Security Department to protect you."


    "With the Security Department personnel present, even if Jia Shu is audacious, I doubt he''ll dare to lay a hand on you easily."


    "Just make it through these two days, and after that, he should no longer be able to act against you."


    "Later on, we will discuss this at length. We''ll find evidence of Jia Shu colluding with the Evil God and then proceed with an investigation!"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu declined without a moment''s hesitation, "The matter of assigning specialists for my protection can be dropped. It''s an internal affair of the Investigation Bureau."


    "If your Security Department intervenes, it could... complicate things unnecessarily."


    "Besides... I should be able to find someone within the Investigation Bureau to provide me with shelter."


    As he said this, the image of Tang Feifei inevitably came to mind.


    Compared to the protection from the two teams of Security Department specialists, he clearly preferred the strong-willed Tang Feifei...


    The only uncertainty was whether Tang Feifei would be willing to intervene...


    ----


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00.

 Chapter 158 Tang Feifei: I Want Monogamy (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```Although he had such concerns, facing Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu was still full of confidence and said, "Don''t worry... I already have a plan."


    Qin Shuman wasn''t the type to dilly-dally or engage in endless disputes.


    So, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she hesitated slightly before agreeing. She didn''t continue to offer help, instead, she quietly said, "Just make sure you don''t die."


    When Qiu Tu heard this, he knew what she was worried about, so he joked, "Haven''t you heard an old saying? ''Good people don''t live long, troublemakers last a thousand years!''"


    At the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman''s lips couldn''t help but curve upwards a little.


    She teased, "You''re really quite unsparing when it comes to belittling yourself."


    A joke lightened the somewhat heavy atmosphere between them considerably.


    After chatting with Qiu Tu for a bit, Qin Shuman asked, "Is there anything else that I can help with?"


    To Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu didn''t stand on ceremony, "Actually, there is. You should have a file on Jia Shu, right?"


    "If it''s convenient, could you give me a copy?"


    Qiu Tu had enough of suffering from insufficient intelligence in his confrontation with Larilo tonight. So when facing the threat of Jia Shu, he didn''t want to be caught off guard a second time.


    A file of a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, although confidential, was not a big deal to the current Qin Shuman.


    Thus, with a "Hmm," she agreed...


    Qin Shuman was very efficient in her work.


    In just twenty minutes, Lin Zuo knocked on the door of Qiu Tu''s villa expressionlessly, then handed over Jia Shu''s information to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the information, thanked him with a smile, but Lin Zuo didn''t even bother to respond and turned around to leave with a poker face.


    Clearly... he was once again woken up from his sleep due to Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman, feeling disgruntled.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu just laughed indifferently.


    He watched Lin Zuo leave, then closed the door and turned on the lights in the first-floor hall of the villa. He sat down on the couch and slowly began to peruse the file.


    The entire file was detailed, covering Jia Shu''s life experiences, character assessment, family relatives, to the time of his Cataclysm Awakening. It was all meticulously recorded.


    The only disappointing part for Qiu Tu was that there was no introduction to Jia Shu''s Cataclysm Power in the file.


    Clearly, even in the Sanctuary, this was part of personal privacy and would not be recorded in the file...


    Having finished reading all of Jia Shu''s file, the image of Jia Shu in Qiu Tu''s mind became much more vivid.


    As a genius with a high IQ, Jia Shu enjoyed a splendid youth. He graduated from the Sanctuary''s Military Officers'' Academy, his parents both deceased, with only his younger brother to rely on.


    While at the academy, he excelled in all his courses and was finally noticed by a mid-ranking member of the General Investigation Bureau, who took him into the Investigation Bureau''s ranks.


    This marked the start of his rapid ascent in the Bureau.


    However, in the character assessment section of the file, Jia Shu didn''t score very high. According to the Security Department''s evaluation, Jia Shu might have "a second personality" inside him, which could be brutal, bloody, and evil.


    As a result, he was particularly susceptible to negative emotions, which could lead to his Degeneration into an aberration.


    This was also why the Security Department was keeping a close eye on him...


    After going through Jia Shu''s file completely, Qiu Tu took out his lighter and ignited the document.


    As the flames slowly devoured Jia Shu''s gray photo, and as the whole file turned into ashes, Qiu Tu swept the remnants into the trash can. Then he stood up and returned to the bedroom, ready to sleep.


    When he reached the bedroom, Liu Fuping was already lying in bed.


    She was wearing a tight silk slip dress that perfectly outlined her fully developed curves.


    Biting her lips, her cheeks flushed and eyes shimmering with a watery light, she was looking at Qiu Tu as if she wanted to ask for something.


    Seeing the enticing scene, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then he found it a bit funny...


    This woman must have heard his phone call with Qin Shuman and felt jealous, so she came to stake her claim.


    ''Indeed, no matter how mature a woman is, jealousy is inevitable.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t make the prepared beauty wait any longer but pounced on her...


    However, the moment he pounced, Qiu Tu also reflected on himself:


    ''I''m planning to seek Tang Feifei''s help tomorrow, yet tonight, I''m sleeping with her "girlfriend." Isn''t that a bit too much?''


    But before he could fully grasp the implications, he succumbed to the tender trap and was thoroughly engrossed...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at Tang Feifei''s small villa.


    Tang Feifei was sitting in the living room of her villa, wearing a tight practice outfit, holding a drink, gazing somewhat absentmindedly at the blue moon outside the window.


    Last night, she waited for Qiu Tu the entire evening, but he didn''t come. She... understood.


    After all, Qiu Tu had just been promoted last night, needing to hand over work and celebrate with friends and colleagues¡ªit was indeed hard to get away.


    But... it was already the second day. The handover tasks should have been completed, and last night''s celebrations should have been done, right?


    So why... has he still not come today?


    And it was not just Qiu Tu''s absence.


    Tang Feifei, having difficulty sleeping alone tonight, sent Liu Fuping a message in the middle of the night, hoping to invite her over for company.


    But... who knew, Liu Fuping who was always eager to help, actually refused her bluntly, telling her she was on her period today and did not want to move.


    Let''s not even mention that Liu Fuping''s period shouldn''t be this early, just recall that even if she were to be cut with a knife, Liu Fuping would still come to keep her company.


    For a moment, Tang Feifei felt as if the world had changed!


    She reminisced about the "happy times" with Qiu Tu over the weekend...


    At that time, she felt the "monogamous" life she had seemed quite beautiful as well.


    ¡ªQiu Tu was the husband, and Liu Fuping was the wife.


    As a result, why does it seem like she now has nothing at all!


    What on earth is going on!


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei, who already had a strong desire for control, downed the wine in her glass in one gulp and then "crash!" she crushed the glass to pieces!


    The glass pierced her hand as if it were hitting steel, not even scratching the skin!


    ....


    [Jia Shu''s assassination (38 hours)]


    [Evil God''s gaze (¡Þ)]


    ....


    A night without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up feeling utterly content.


    Last night, Liu Fuping whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear that her period was two days away and she was in a safe period now.


    Such a hint was as clear as it could be.


    So... Qiu Tu had his fill of enjoyment, did it with her, and then went to sleep soundly.


    And indeed, as Lin Zuo had said, Larilo pulling people into dreams should consume quite a bit of energy, so last night after Qiu Tu went to bed, she did not come to bother him again.


    This actually allowed Qiu Tu to have a good night''s sleep!


    Getting up in the morning, the beauty was no longer by his side, only the faint scent of roses lingered on the bed.


    Qiu Tu stretched, put on his slippers, and went downstairs.


    As expected, Liu Fuping was busy in the kitchen downstairs.


    She had tied her black hair into a bun, revealing her fair, swan-like neck, and her palm-sized face was filled with serenity and intellect.


    The morning light was just breaking, and the soft sunlight poured through the window onto her, who was clad in an apron, adding a touch of liveliness to her beauty, making her seem exceptionally calm and gentle today...


    Qiu Tu walked over, gently wrapping his arms around Liu Fuping''s slender waist, and rested his head on the woman''s neck, softly nuzzling against it.


    Tickled by Qiu Tu''s actions, Liu Fuping cooed in protest, "Stop it! I''m cooking!"


    Taking that as encouragement, Qiu Tu grew even more playful, his hands involuntarily reaching up...


    They played around for a while until Liu Fuping was almost unable to continue cooking. Only after her pleading did Qiu Tu let her off.


    After breakfast, Qiu Tu didn''t go to work but had Liu Fuping call Tang Feifei to invite her over to the villa for a chat.


    Obediently, Liu Fuping got up to call Tang Feifei.


    While she did that, Qiu Tu took the opportunity to sit on the dining chair and check the rewards from last night''s Loyalty Game.


    The "Salvage Game" had to be put on hold for the time being since there were no eligible subordinates.


    But for the "Fighting Game," Qiu Tu had once again sent out his lead "fighter" Ah-Tai.


    Thus, even though Wang Xi''s weapon had been upgraded to a rifle, he still lost the game without any suspense.


    Looking at Wang Xi''s slowly increasing loyalty, which had reached 56 points, Qiu Tu checked out the newly emerged Memory Fragment (Medium) and chose to view it, hoping to find new clues inside!


    Following Qiu Tu''s choice, the next second, he found himself in a strange but exquisitely decorated villa.


    In front of "him," seven or eight naked women were kneeling.


    "He" had one foot pressing down on one of the women''s heads, while the other hand stroked another woman''s Yue Xiong, laughing wildly.


    Qiu Tu was shocked for a moment, then tried to carefully identify the environment and the identities of the women lying around. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But perhaps due to the lack of information, he could only roughly discern that these seven or eight women were all between the ages of 23 and 30, and judging by the delicacy of their skin¡­ they clearly were not ordinary citizens from the lower strata.


    Looking at the villa''s exquisite cashmere carpet and hanging famous paintings, also considering yesterday''s Madame Kong...


    A bold guess arose in Qiu Tu''s mind: could these women all be family members of the various section chiefs and department heads who had been arrested!


    ''They are too brazen!'' he thought.


    And as Qiu Tu thought this, a voice came from upstairs, "Wang Xi, stop playing, come up, the God will Bless you now!"


    ---


    Just a note, guys. Although I have the outline set, the screen time for the characters is not fixed. So it may be adjusted based on what readers like.


    So... if you like a certain character, be sure to leave more comments or vote for them on the [Characters] page in the book''s [Introduction].


    That way, I''ll know who everyone likes and then consider giving them more or less screen time.


    Lastly, a shoutout for Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping who I''ve just created; if you like them, feel free to give them your support with likes.


    The next chapter will still be around 19:00.

 Chapter 159 Cataclysmic Ability: Mitosis (10,000 words begging for subscription!)

    Upon hearing the words of the man in the suit, Qiu Tu felt a slight stir in his heart.''Blessing?''


    ''It seems like this time I might actually witness something extraordinary....?''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu continued to "experience" on....


    Hearing the call of the man in the suit upstairs, "Qiu Tu" responded, "Coming!"


    After speaking, "Qiu Tu" casually groped the woman beside him a couple more times before getting up and heading upstairs along the staircase.


    When he reached the corner of the staircase, "Qiu Tu" turned to look back at the several naked women still kneeling on the ground, whistled sharply, and then laughed wildly as he ascended the stairs.


    His demeanor was becoming more and more like that of the man in the suit....


    Upon reaching the top floor, "Qiu Tu" was met with a modernly furnished study.


    In the middle of the study was a large solid wood desk, its surface as smooth as a mirror. Where once there were papers and a lamp, now they were all piled up in the corner, replaced by 12 white candles and 1 red candle.


    Beneath the 13 candles, there was a red six-pointed star drawn with blood.


    The 12 white candles were precisely placed at the 12 nodes of the hexagram, while the red candle was positioned right in the center!


    Qiu Tu silently memorized the pattern on the desk, then continued to follow Wang Xi''s memories.


    Meanwhile, upon seeing "Qiu Tu" enter, the masked man in the suit looked over, his eyes crimson with evil.


    "Old Qi, you actually don''t have the talent to become a ''Divine Envoy,'' but.... who would have thought you''d be so fortunate to encounter our ''God'' in this lifetime," he said.


    "To ''God,'' all living beings are equal, with no distinction of high or low, noble or humble."


    "Even the most ordinary person, as long as they devotedly worship her, can still be granted ''Divine Power'' and become a divine envoy."


    "Moreover, compared to those who drink the ''Incomplete Potion'' and steal ''Divine Power,'' we who receive power bestowed by ''God'' are much safer, without any risk of failure."


    "So.... open your mind and accept the power that ''God'' bestows upon you!"


    Hearing the words of the man in the suit, "Qiu Tu" fell to the ground with a "thud," then crawled on the floor and cried out, "Please, ''God,'' grant me power!"


    As "Qiu Tu" shouted, the man in the suit let out several wild, mocking laughs. He then opened a bag, grabbed a handful of an unknown white powder, and fiercely sprinkled it over the hexagram array!


    The next second, 13 flames surged up fiercely, changing from their original red to a deep purple!


    As the flames rose, the study was bathed in deep purple light, and smoke filled the air, as if the real world had been pulled away!


    And the figure of Larilo slowly emerged in this illusory world.


    Her eyes, crimson with evil, watched "Qiu Tu," making a stark contrast to her pure, angelic face.


    Then she stretched out her delicate hand and pointed towards "Qiu Tu."


    The next second, "Qiu Tu" felt the whole world spinning wildly. In a daze, he seemed to find himself in the midst of a brilliant galaxy.


    But before he could take in the beautiful view, the countless galaxies eerily began to stretch and deform, turning into thin, long tentacles, penetrating every cell in "Qiu Tu''s" body!


    "Qiu Tu" felt as if his entire body was being torn apart, the pain was unbearable! Yet his mental clarity prevented him from passing out!


    And just as the agony was reaching its peak!


    Suddenly, the scene before Qiu Tu''s eyes changed dramatically! When he came to his senses, he realized he had left the [Memory World] and returned to reality!


    "Whew!"


    Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then checked his body, finding it unscathed.


    But.... the scene from that memory felt so real that he thought it had actually happened to him.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu truly realized the terrifying aspect of the [Loyalty Game].


    It might just be a little [Memory Fragment], but it''s a real [Memory]!


    Not only were sight, hearing, and touch completely restored, but even the [sensation] was fully reproduced.


    It could be said that everything the brain/soul remembers, Qiu Tu could experience!


    And what''s more....


    It seems that even the thoughts were recorded in the memory...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take out a piece of paper and pen and scribble something on it.


    Soon, the paper bore the details of Wang Xi''s Cataclysm Path and ability....


    ''Cataclysm Path: Life Reproduction''


    ''Cataclysmic Ability: Mitosis''


    ''Ability Effect: The Cataclysmic possessing this ability will have the capacity for asexual reproduction. Under certain conditions of sacrificing strength, one can split into two identical beings.''


    ''This ability can not only be applied to the entire living creature but also to its various organs, allowing a short-term enhancement of physical fitness or the replacement of organs.''


    Looking at the record of Wang Xi''s Cataclysm Path and Cataclysmic ability on the paper, Qiu Tu stroked his chin and felt.... Although this ability seemed a bit disgusting, it appeared to be very practical.


    Not only can he regenerate amputated limbs, but he can also leave behind an extra body to save his life?


    Is this the Cataclysmic ability bestowed by "God"?


    Out of the blue, Qiu Tu suddenly understood why some people would choose to worship the Evil God and why the Sanctuary allowed only Cataclysmics to take up middle and high-level positions in various cities.


    Forget about most people, even Qiu Tu. If he had been unable to undergo the Cataclysm Awakening and one day the Evil God approached him, telling him that by worshipping the Evil God, he could be 100% guaranteed to receive Supernatural Power, he reckoned that he would find it difficult to resist such a temptation...


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu neatly folded the paper in his hand and put it away.


    His takeaway from the "Memory Fragment (Medium)" this time was not insignificant. Qiu Tu not only witnessed that bizarre ritual, but he also learned that Wang Xi was already a Cataclysmic, and also discovered even more victims.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help taking out his Communicator and calling Cao Dabiao, instructing him to pull up the files on the families of the officials who had been involved in the incident a few days ago.


    Because he had just "personally" seen those women, identifying them should be possible with photographs, which could clarify the victims without alarming most people.


    Having done all of this, Qiu Tu also took the time to recall other details in the memory fragment that he had just reviewed.


    Very quickly, two new details caught his attention.


    First was that Suit Man seemed to have been wearing a mask in front of Wang Xi all the time?


    But if they were clearly accomplices, why did Suit Man wear a mask in front of Wang Xi? What was he hiding?


    Second was that Suit Man referred to Wang Xi as "Old Qi"?


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, he recalled Wang Xi had once called Suit Man as "Old Master"?


    Old Master, Old Qi? So... are there five other members in this gang?


    But, why had he never seen them?


    The more Qiu Tu thought about it, the more puzzled he became...


    Combined with the fact that Larilo had been scheming for decades, and after descending to this world, she abandoned Old Master Qin, and her claim that Jia Shu was a follower of hers...


    Qiu Tu had this nagging feeling that the young female Evil God was playing a very big game...


    .....


    Liu Fuping made the call to Tang Feifei at 11 a.m.


    Tang Feifei arrived at the temporary villa at 11:20 a.m.


    From her brisk manner, one could tell how much she "despised" Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping...


    However, even so, she did not abandon her professional demeanor.


    To ensure secrecy, she parked her car at a nearby mall, then walked to Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping''s little villa, and climbed through a kitchen window...


    Therefore, as Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping were analyzing the case, they saw Tang Feifei appear in the villa dressed in sportswear, with eyes as sharp as swords and bright as stars, making a silent entrance...


    Sensing her imposing aura, Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping looked at each other, then awkwardly raised their hands to greet, "Director Tang, what brings you climbing through the window?"


    Tang Feifei''s eyes were sharp as daggers, and she stared at Qiu Tu with a gaze as intense as a leopardess locking onto its prey before bursting into a cold laugh, "Otherwise... I was afraid Chief Qiu... no, Chief Qiu, would run away!"


    "I''ve been trying to meet with you for two days, and I haven''t seen you, the busy man, at all." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s accusatory expression, Qiu Tu smiled again.


    He sent Liu Fuping to make tea first, while he took the initiative to approach her and started to butter her up, "Sister Tang is kidding. I could hide from anyone, but never from you."


    He explained, "It''s just that I''ve been immediately assigned a case after my recent promotion, and I''ve been too swamped to find time."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu pointed to the dark circles under his eyes, which he had from working with Liu Fuping until the wee hours, and said, "Look, I hardly got any sleep last night."


    Tang Feifei narrowed her eyes suspiciously at Qiu Tu''s dark circles, "Are those from staying up all night?"


    Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, "Of course!"


    Tang Feifei was skeptical, but she was too lazy to quibble.


    She wasn''t the type to be petty; after a few sneers, she let it go.


    So she sat down on the sofa, with a look of having already seen through everything, and asked with a cold face, "So, tell me, what did you want to see me for this time?"


    It must be said, she looked spirited by nature, sitting straight even on the sofa, so her cold demeanor appeared even more striking and valiant.


    As Qiu Tu admired her robust health, he remarked, "What kind of talk is that! Is it a given that I''m in trouble if I''m looking for Sister Tang? Can''t it just be that I missed Sister Tang?!"


    Tang Feifei looked sideways at Qiu Tu, clearly unconvinced.


    Sure enough, after asserting his righteous stance, Qiu Tu grinned and sidled closer, then cheekily said, "Actually, it''s nothing much..."


    "It''s just... my subordinates want to kill me, my superiors want to kill me, and my enemy, an Evil God, also wants to kill me... that''s all."


    Tang Feifei turned her head and frowned at Qiu Tu, her wheat-colored face full of question marks: ???


    -----


    Three chapters, ten thousand words, haha, continuing tonight!

 Chapter 160 The 44th of 108 Ways to Enhance Affection (Request for Subscription of 10,000 words!)

    Seeing Tang Feifei''s puzzled expression, Qiu Tu quickly sat properly on the sofa and revealed a "well-behaved" smile.Then he continued with a shameless face, "Sister Tang... actually... I didn''t want to trouble you."


    "But the thing is... the most capable and powerful person I know is you."


    "Who else should I turn to for help if not you when I''m in trouble?"


    "And the trouble I''ve caused this time is indeed serious, if there''s anyone in Xinjie City who could solve my problems, it would only be you."


    "You wouldn''t just stand by and watch me die, right?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s sycophantic demeanor, Tang Feifei was almost amused to anger.


    She had been handling his affairs for the past two days and had spoken well of him in meetings, intending to invite him for a serious talk in the evening. Yet, she hadn''t managed to arrange a meeting with him for two days.


    Now that he was in trouble and realized he couldn''t cope, he came running to her immediately!


    A smile for her, a few nice words, and he thinks he can win her over?


    Does she seem that easy to placate?!


    Hmm...


    Well, she seemed a bit easy to appease.


    After all, getting the always arrogant Qiu Tu to lower his head in front of her did seem quite satisfying... S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that thought, Tang Feifei suppressed the upward curl of her lips and then snorted lightly, commenting, "Smooth talker."


    But having said that, she quickly followed up with, "Alright, cut the crap. Just tell me straight, who have you provoked this time, why do they want to kill you, and what''s their strength..."


    Qiu Tu keenly caught the smile on Tang Feifei''s lips and secretly rejoiced in his heart: Nailed it!


    "Emotional Fraud Manual" method 44 out of 108 ways to improve relationships: Proper praise and compliments are always the best way to enhance the feelings between two people.


    Note: If your target is an [Action-Oriented Person] or [Rational Planner], please use this in combination with method 43 (Chapter 102), and do not use it alone.


    Tang Feifei, this woman, was always generous in her actions, so if she wasn''t upset, she genuinely wasn''t.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu began to recount the events that had occurred over the past few days.


    As he talked about serious matters, his expression gradually turned solemn, "Sister Tang, you should know about the new case Jia Shu recently handed over to me, right?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, her wheat-colored face expressionless, "The robbery at the pharmacy on August 16th, right?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Yes."


    "I''ve actually... solved that case."


    Even Tang Feifei, who was usually calm, couldn''t help but express surprise at Qiu Tu''s words.


    She did a quick calculation. From the time Qiu Tu took the case to today, it had only been... three days?


    He solved a case in three days that the Public Security Bureau couldn''t solve in thirty days?


    Was the Public Security Bureau too incompetent, or was Qiu Tu too strong?


    While she was pondering this, Qiu Tu added lightly, "Actually, I solved the case on the day I received it."


    Tang Feifei:...


    Tang Feifei confirmed that the man in front of her was indeed strong.


    Although she evaluated Qiu Tu that way in her heart, Tang Feifei kept an impassive expression on her cool face.


    She pretended to be indifferent and continued listening.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze turned distant, "But... after solving this case, I realized that the implications of this case might be far beyond my expectations."


    He said, "I started my investigation when I discovered that one of my subordinates had suddenly become a Cataclysmic."


    Next, Qiu Tu recounted the entire process of the case to Tang Feifei.


    Most of it was true, except for certain details related to Golden Finger, where Qiu Tu would adjust the sequence of information to make everything sound more reasonable.


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s narrative, Tang Feifei''s expression turned serious as well.


    Her wheat-colored face showed extreme concentration, and her spirited eyebrows furrowed slightly, "So... you mean to say that this Evil God is now rapidly infiltrating Xinjie City?"


    "Your subordinate Wang Xi and the Head of the Political Department, Jia Shu, are both her followers?"


    "And Jia Shu even plans to assassinate you in the next few days for Her?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, affirming Tang Feifei''s summary.


    Tang Feifei tensed up, absorbed in thought, evidently shaken by the news.


    After a moment, she asked, "You just mentioned Jia Shu is a Second-Order Cataclysmic?"


    Qiu Tu''s reply was based on Larilo''s words, "Yes. That''s what the Evil God told me."


    After finishing, he couldn''t help but ask, "By the way, I still don''t really understand the difference between a Second Order Cataclysmic and a First-Order Cataclysmic. Is there a big gap in strength between the two?"


    Tang Feifei did not respond directly. Instead, she stood up and walked with her long legs to the kitchen.


    Then her sharp eyes surveyed the kitchen and selected two items.


    Moments later, she returned to Qiu Tu with the two items. She placed the first item on the coffee table, "This is a date, akin to an ordinary First-Order Cataclysmic."


    Immediately after, she placed an apple in front of Qiu Tu, "And this represents a Second-Order Cataclysmic."


    Qiu Tu was somewhat shocked, "Is the difference between them that vast?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly.


    She sat back on the sofa, and her firm and bouncy buttocks pressed onto the couch, producing a semi-circular curve on it.


    "Actually... each promotion for a Cataclysmic is a reshaping of one''s life."


    "Like ordinary people experiencing Cataclysm Awakening, becoming a Cataclysmic. Their body undergoes comprehensive enhancement; they obtain their unique Cataclysm Path; they gain their own Cataclysmic ability; and they can use Spiritual Vision to see scenes from the Boundless Heart Sea."

 Chapter 160 The 44th of 108 Ways to Enhance Affection (Request for Subscription of 10,000 words!)_2

    "This has already made Cataclysmics into a kind of superhuman life, far surpassing ordinary humans."At this point, Tang Feifei pointed at Qiu Tu and said, "But..."


    "As an ordinary Catastrophic, you must have realized your own powerlessness, right?"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment and then asked back, "Are you referring to... the time limit of using supernatural abilities?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, then her wheat-colored face became serious, "Yes."


    "First-order Catastrophers, having just stepped on the Cataclysm Path, are limited by their understanding of their Cataclysmic abilities and the scarcity of spiritual power, which restricts their use of Cataclysmic abilities."


    "For Catastrophics with weaker Cataclysmic abilities, they might manage to use them for about an hour."


    "Some with stronger Cataclysmic abilities may find it difficult to use them even for ten minutes."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes flashed with understanding upon hearing this: wasn''t this talking about himself...


    Meanwhile, Tang Feifei continued to explain, "Moreover, Catastrophics at this stage although they have already fully enhanced their bodies once... are far from being able to resist firearms."


    "So... even an ordinary person, as long as they hold a firearm, can still easily kill a Catastrophic."


    Curious after listening to Tang Feifei''s explanation, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What about Second-Order Catastrophics?"


    Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu with her cool eyes before slowly explaining, "If the difference between First-Order Catastrophers and ordinary people is not that great, then... Second-Order Catastrophics can be said to have far surpassed humans."


    She held out her hand, counting on her fingers as she spoke, "Their Cataclysmic abilities and bodies are further strengthened; impenetrable to knives and guns, ignoring small-caliber bullet fire; spiritual power surges, allowing them to use their Cataclysmic abilities for a longer duration..."


    "Just these three aspects alone make them able to take on ten opponents, easily wiping out a team of First-Order Catastrophers."


    "In addition, they can disperse their Catastrophe Power for vigilance; spread their Catastrophe Power throughout their body to increase their offensive or defensive power."


    "All of these make their combat power incomparable to First-Order Catastrophers and ordinary people."


    At this point, she glanced at the gun Qiu Tu had at his waist and shook her head, "So, that Evil God wasn''t wrong. With your current equipment and strength. surviving is indeed impossible..."


    "After all... your strongest weapon, the handgun, can no longer effectively harm him."


    "And yet he can easily destroy you with his body, with his Cataclysmic abilities..."


    After listening to Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu finally had a clear understanding of the disparity between First- and Second-Order Catastrophers.


    If First-Order Catastrophers are still apprentices, recruits, just stepping through the door into a superhuman world; then Second-Order Catastrophics have already become veterans, old soldiers, far surpassing First-Order Catastrophers in experience and ability...


    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but recall the changes in his ability after his promotion to Principal Staff...


    Ever since the night before last when he was promoted to Principal Staff, he immediately checked his abilities.


    As he expected, his ability had slightly improved: the original volume of influence of 2*2*2, eight cubic meters, increased to 3*3*3, twenty-seven cubic meters.


    This meant the scope of influence of his "Order Space" increased by more than three times.


    But with that came a surge in consumption when using his ability.


    Luckily, Qiu Tu''s spiritual power seemed to have also increased along with the upgrade in ability. Otherwise, he probably wouldn''t have been able to use his upgraded abilities at all.


    Besides this, there were no other changes to Qiu Tu''s abilities and physique.


    At the time, Qiu Tu had wondered why his promotion brought such a meager improvement.


    Now... he probably understood.


    It''s likely he wasn''t considered a Second-Order Catastrophic yet: being Deputy Staff and Principal Staff was just a small step for his "Order-Political" Cataclysm Path, not enough for a qualitative change.


    Probably only when he truly becomes Deputy Division Chief will he become a Second-Order Catastrophic, and his abilities and physique will experience a major upgrade!


    So... both Larilo and "Crisis Intuition" had informed him that he couldn''t cope with Jia Shu, a Second-Order Catastrophic.


    However, he had previously only assumed that his abilities had no effect on Jia Shu, never expecting that even a pistol could not harm Jia Shu.


    "It seems, only when one has reached the strength of a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, does one truly become a supernatural being..."


    "Things are indeed a bit tricky..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn to his lifesaver: Tang Feifei. He curiously asked, "So, Sister Tang, what level of Cataclysmic are you?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei, who had always maintained a solemn expression, revealed a touch of proud smile on her wheat-colored face.


    She said slowly, "Third Order."


    Qiu Tu was surprised, "Third Order?!"


    Tang Feifei nodded, then explained, "Yes, a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    A hint of pride appeared on her face, like a lioness boasting her might, "Yes, I am the strongest Third Order Cataclysmic allowed in the Sanctuary."


    Qiu Tu keenly caught the key phrase: allowed by the Sanctuary?


    However, Tang Feifei did not explain the meaning of this term but began to explain about the Third Order Cataclysmics instead.


    She said, "Compared to Second Order Cataclysmics, Third Order Cataclysmics are actually much more powerful."


    "Because once you are promoted to a Third Order Cataclysmic, the Cataclysm Path you follow should already be more than half completed."


    "At this time, you will have a second Cataclysmic ability to further enhance your strength."


    "And... your body will be further strengthened. Let alone small-caliber handguns, even rifles can no longer cause you fatal harm."


    "In addition to your body, our spiritual power will also be sublimated, allowing it to leave the body and enter the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' to explore the secrets within the Boundless Heart Sea..."


    "...to further strengthen ourselves."


    "...to unravel the true nature of the world''s Cataclysm."


    "...to hunt down those Cataclysmic Creatures that wander on the human side of the Boundless Heart Sea, gathering more precious Cataclysmic Material to craft stronger Cataclysmic treasures...."


    Listening to the scenes described by Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu was momentarily captivated.


    However, his ambition might not lie in such violent confrontations, so after a moment of yearning, he promptly called back his reason.


    He looked at Tang Feifei, somewhat puzzled and asked, "If Cataclysmics are really that powerful... then, are all the higher-ups in the Sanctuary High Order Catastrophists?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei laughed.


    Meanwhile, Liu Fuping had just finished making the tea. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She walked over with graceful steps, placed the teapot on the coffee table, and poured a cup for each of them, "Bureau Chief, officers, the tea is ready."


    Qiu Tu looked up at her, pondered for a moment, and then instructed, "Sister Liu, go next door and hurry Big Biao and the others to bring over Little Liu''s team of agents from the bureau, and get them properly equipped."


    "Tonight, we start the apprehension!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping knew he was deliberately sending her away. She rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu and responded unenthusiastically, "Got it~~~ officer."


    "Then you and the Bureau Chief... have a good chat~~"


    On the last three words, she put emphasis and changed the tone of "chat" to sound more like "flirt"...


    After that, she turned around, swaying her hips as she left the villa.


    Listening to her teasing that was neither big nor small, Qiu Tu hadn''t even spoken when Tang Feifei coughed and said, "Fuping is causing you trouble..."


    ------


    Still three chapters and 10,000 words, ha. Slept too late tonight, have to work tomorrow, probably won''t get the third chapter out until around 20:00. I''ll try to finish earlier.

 Chapter 161 The Levels of Catastrophe Power (10,000 Words, Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu:....To be honest, Qiu Tu felt that Liu Fuping''s rather informal behavior just now.... had little to do with Tang Feifei.


    Instead, it was the woman''s old problem: as soon as she received even a little kindness from someone, she would get carried away.


    However, Tang Feifei had taken the blame herself, and Qiu Tu didn''t feel right about taking it back.


    So he just followed with a smile, "No problem."


    Tang Feifei watched Liu Fuping leave the villa, then returned to the main topic with Qiu Tu.


    She said, "Just now you asked me if all the higher-ups in the Sanctuary are high-order cataclysmics...."


    Find adventures on empire


    "Actually, they''re not."


    Tang Feifei''s response did not surprise him.


    After all.... if the cataclysmics were that strong, why would the Sanctuary need to vigorously research weapons, develop armies, and expand their territory?


    If cataclysmics were truly that powerful, why would the department related to them, the Security Department, not be a mainstream department but a secret one?


    These details indicated that while cataclysmics might indeed be strong, they very likely weren''t that strong, or there might be some significant issue.


    As expected, Tang Feifei explained, "According to the Sanctuary''s research on various Cataclysmic Creatures in the Boundless Heart Sea...."


    "All cataclysmic beings can broadly be divided into five orders."


    "First Order being the weakest, Fifth Order the strongest."


    "And as they ascend in rank, cataclysmic beings will travel further along their respective Cataclysm Paths. They will become more aligned with their paths...."


    "This leads to a very serious problem: regardless of the path, once it becomes extreme, it can generate enormous harm."


    "Take the most peaceful Order Path, for example. As beings ascend in rank, their pursuit of order becomes increasingly stringent."


    "From the placement of an object to the functioning of a nation, everything must follow their order, without the slightest change or modification...."


    "Or take the most dangerous Destruction Path. As beings ascend in rank, the desire for destruction in their hearts also grows stronger."


    "Wanting to destroy objects, wanting to destroy humans around them, even wanting to destroy everything in the world...."


    "So when they reach Fourth Order or above,.... no one knows if they can still be considered human."


    "Perhaps.... they''re just puppets assimilated by their Cataclysm Paths?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s expression revealed sudden realization. He said, "I remember you just said that you are the highest Third Order Cataclysmic allowed by the Sanctuary. Is this why?"


    Tang Feifei nodded, explaining, "Yes."


    "The Sanctuary does support officials awakening as cataclysmics."


    "But.... they don''t consider power for promotion, nor do they support officials becoming high-order cataclysmics."


    Tang Feifei paused, then said, "Third Order is the highest level the Sanctuary can accept. It''s also the limit for maintaining sanity...."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also finally understood why Tang Feifei was so confident in her own strength.


    Put simply, unless it''s those reckless Cataclysmic Creatures, Third Order cataclysmics are indeed the current ceiling of power....


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was comprehending, Tang Feifei continued, "Moreover, the Sanctuary''s leadership has reached a consensus on whether to cultivate high-order cataclysmics."


    "That is, in any world, any era, the strength of a collective is always greater than that of an individual."


    "After all.... the power of a collective can be passed down. But individual strength may vanish with the individual''s demise."


    "So.... instead of allocating resources to train some uncontrollable high-order cataclysmics."


    "It''s better to buckle down and study the technology from before the Cataclysm, or how to integrate Catastrophic Power into machinery and objects, creating a path of ''Cataclysmic Technology''...."


    "That''s the real invaluable treasure that can be handed down to future generations. The true path that can save humanity."


    With that, Tang Feifei smiled and said, "After all, even the most powerful cataclysmic can''t withstand a nuclear bomb, right?"


    After understanding from Tang Feifei''s mouth the differences between First, Second, and Third Order cataclysmics; their ranks and paths; as well as the Sanctuary''s direction of development.


    Qiu Tu also gained certain insight into his next steps and how his strength compared to that of his superior, Jia Shu....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked towards Tang Feifei and directly spoke, "Feifei, this time, I might really need your help."


    Tang Feifei didn''t mind Qiu Tu''s increasingly presumptuous address....


    She raised her eyebrows slightly, then a smile spread across her face as if the prey was finally taking the bait, "Okay. But.... it''s not for free."


    As she spoke, she stood up and stretched lazily. Perhaps because her athletic wear was a bit short, when she raised her arms, her flat abdomen and the lines of her muscles were revealed.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Aren''t you curious about what I need your help with?"


    Tang Feifei looked down at him, her gaze full of a hunter''s teasing of her prey, "Or.... do you have other ideas in mind?"


    Facing that gaze, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    He said, "The political arena has never been about brute force."


    "Using a dump truck to run someone over can be effective once, but only for the most crucial moment."


    "Although I''m not sure why my always strategic superior has chosen such a risky path, I feel.... he''s not yet worth my deploying this final maneuver."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked at him in surprise, "Then how do you want to resolve this matter?"


    Qiu Tu gave a mysterious smile, then gestured for Tang Feifei to come closer, "Come here, I''ll tell you the next plan...."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident expression, Tang Feifei also leaned in curiously.


    Two minutes later, her wheat-colored face was full of shock...


    She looked Qiu Tu up and down as if meeting him for the first time and then commented, "You really are... sneaky."


    "But..." She dragged out the sound, keeping Qiu Tu in suspense, before saying, "I like it."


    At this, she switched gears, asking, "But what about my benefit?"


    By now, Qiu Tu had already resigned himself to his fate, stretching out his hand, "A night of companionship as payment."


    Tang Feifei, "Two nights."


    Qiu Tu, "Deal."


    .....


    Tang Feifei was swift and decisive in handling business, and after having settled the cooperation with Qiu Tu,


    she nimbly jumped out the window and left the villa. She didn''t even tease Qiu Tu.


    As she put it: there''s no rush... After everything is over, she has two whole days to have fun with Qiu Tu.


    At the time, Qiu Tu''s expression was like that of an old man on the subway staring at his phone...


    After watching Tang Feifei leave, Qiu Tu turned and went back into the villa, then took out paper and pen to write down the first step of the plan: capture the Suit Man...


    [Jia Shu''s Attack (30 hours)]


    [Evil God''s Watch (¡Þ)]


    ......


    6 PM in the evening.


    Since it was deep autumn, the sky darkened earlier. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the ominously dark sky of early evening, outside the perimeter of a small villa near Longshan Road in the Planning Area,


    Qiu Tu was communicating with the surveillance officers from the Security Department, "Are you sure that the Suit Man hasn''t come out since entering the villa last night?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, a male officer nodded and said earnestly, "Positive."


    "Moreover, we''ve checked, and there are only three entrances and exits to this villa above ground, with no other exit points."


    Qiu Tu nodded at this, then waved over Cao Dabiao, who was behind him.


    Seeing the signal, Cao Dabiao swiftly bent down and walked over.


    While looking at the villa, Qiu Tu asked, "Have we figured out the ownership of this villa yet?"


    The somewhat embarrassed Cao Dabiao standing beside him said, "Not yet."


    "In the records of the Civil Affairs Bureau, this villa is listed as unowned, but we have found that this villa has changed hands a few times in our records."


    "It''s just... the buyers are all blanks. Obviously, someone deliberately erased the records."


    "There''s likely some dark secret hidden within."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao say this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scenes he had witnessed in the memory fragment that morning...


    ''Could it be that villa?''


    After an afternoon''s investigation, the investigation team had discreetly checked the homes of the department heads and bureau chiefs who had been taken away in the past few days, as per Qiu Tu''s request.


    Unfortunately, out of the 33 department heads and bureau chiefs, families of at least 19 had disappeared.


    They might have all been abducted by the Suit Man and Wang Xi, hidden somewhere undergoing untold suffering...


    One could say that before the [8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case] was even solved, an enormous scandal was about to blow up in the upper echelons of Xinjie City society.


    While worrying about this, Qiu Tu examined the villa''s floor plan again, then said, "Follow this afternoon''s plan, split into teams and guard all the entrances and exits to prevent the target from escaping."


    "By 6:30 PM at the latest, officers from the Security Department will knock on the door to inquire, and that''s when we''ll execute the arrest!"


    "Yes!" After hearing Qiu Tu''s instructions, Cao Dabiao quickly saluted and then went to direct the operation...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau.


    8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case investigation team office.


    Because Qiu Tu had reassigned two batches of people, there were only a few officers from the Public Security Bureau left in the office along with Wang Xi and Song Qing.


    Not sure if it was a psychic sense he developed after becoming a Cataclysmic, but Wang Xi''s right eyelid kept twitching, as if sensing something bad was about to happen.


    He looked up at the few investigators in the office and couldn''t help feeling something was off.


    But thinking it might just be his imagination, he glanced at Song Qing beside him, hesitated, and then asked, "Song Qing, do you feel that something''s not quite right?"


    The young girl, Song Qing, was at that moment engrossed in playing a game on her phone.


    On the yellow pixelated screen, a simple game of Tetris had her utterly captivated.


    -------


    That''s three chapters and ten thousand words, haha. Slept too late tonight and I still have to work tomorrow, so I probably won''t post the third chapter until around 8 PM. I''ll try to do it earlier.

 Chapter 162 Suit Man Arrested and Brought to Justice! (10,000 words, please subscribe)

    Immersed in the game, Song Qing obviously didn''t understand Wang Xi''s hint.She cutely uttered, "Huh?" and then, while continuing to play the game with a naive face, asked without looking up, "What''s wrong?"


    Wang Xi, who was sitting beside her, pointed at the empty Investigation Bureau office and said in a low voice, "Don''t you feel... like we''ve been left behind again?"


    "Brother Biao, Feng Ge, and the others have been gone for two days. Little Liu, Huo Yan, and the rest were called away this afternoon."


    "Even Sister Liu hasn''t shown up for the past two days."


    "It''s just us, with no other tasks, just sitting in the office killing time."


    Hearing Wang Xi''s words, Song Qing looked up from her Communicator, surveyed the office, and then revealed a dumbfounded expression, "Right!"


    As if she had just realized, she stopped playing the game, stood up abruptly, swept her gaze around the office, and then exclaimed in surprise,


    "It really is just us who have been left behind!"


    "Why is that!"


    "Did they go on a mission? Then why didn''t they take us?"


    "It''s not the weekend, nor are we off work, so it''s not overtime, right?"


    Hearing Song Qing''s barrage of questions, Wang Xi''s gaze involuntarily grew heavier. He thought of a possibility...


    So, with a slight turn of his eyes and an idea in his mind, he looked at the naive Song Qing and said with a smile, "Song Qing, why don''t you... call Sister Liu? See what''s going on?"


    "Maybe they just went out to party and didn''t invite us?"


    Song Qing: ??


    Song Qing glanced down at Wang Xi and said with annoyance, "That would make me feel even more excluded."


    After speaking, she sat back down with a huff and slumped back onto the table. Her recently developed curves pressed against the desk, forming a "one".


    Pouting her lips, she said, "I''m not going to ask. I''ll wait until the mission is over, then I''ll ask the chief! See if he really considers me one of his own."


    Seeing that Song Qing had not taken the bait, Wang Xi hesitated for a moment, then smiled and said, "If you don''t want to ask, then don''t."


    "I''m going to the bathroom."


    Song Qing took out her Communicator to continue playing Tetris, pouting her mouth indifferently, "Go ahead."


    Wang Xi muttered an "Okay" and then got up and left the office.


    But what he didn''t notice was... the moment he left, the naive expression on Song Qing''s face immediately disappeared.


    She cautiously peeked after Wang Xi''s retreating back, and once sure he had gone, she hurriedly turned off the game and sent a brief message through the Communicator, "Target left the office, appears to be signaling."


    After sending the message, she returned to her previous relaxed state and continued to sprawl on the table playing the game as if nothing had happened.


    As she played, she muttered softly, "They didn''t leave me behind. They gave me a more important mission."


    "So... the only one isolated is you, Wang Xi... hee hee..."


    The next second, her eyes lit up, she dropped a "T" shaped block, clearing three consecutive lines...


    ...


    At the same time.


    Liu Fuping, who had received Song Qing''s message, also quietly approached Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Wang Xi seems to have realized something''s wrong and is preparing to spill the beans."


    Qiu Tu nodded upon hearing this.


    Checking the time, he smiled, "It seems he''s not too slow after all, discovering the problem now."


    With that, Qiu Tu said firmly, "Wait another thirty seconds, then start the operation."


    Liu Fuping saluted, "Yes!"


    Quickly, as orders were given out, investigators from the Political Department dispersed around the area to prevent Suit Man from escaping.


    Meanwhile, specialists from the Security Department, following Lin Zuo''s signal, approached and knocked on the villa''s front door.


    Inside the villa at the time, Suit Man was embracing a young woman wearing only a sheer nightgown, holding a phone receiver to his ear.


    Through the receiver, Wang Xi''s anxious voice could be heard, "Boss, something''s wrong. You need to get out of there fast!"


    "I suspect our chief is on his way to catch you right now!"


    Hearing Wang Xi''s words, Suit Man''s rascal-looking face was filled with arrogance and confidence, "Oh? It''s okay."


    "Let them come then."


    Wang Xi, on the other end of the phone, was noticeably baffled.


    He uttered a "Huh?" and wanted to say something, but he didn''t know how to start.


    At that moment, however, Suit Man confidently smiled, "Don''t worry, it''s the divine decree of the God... "


    Simultaneously, the villa''s front door was knocked on heavily from the outside.


    Wang Xi on the phone clearly felt his brain was overloaded. He hesitated and said, "Is it... like that? Then..."


    But before he could finish his sentence, a stern male voice suddenly came from beside him, "Wang Xi. What are you doing? Give me your Communicator for inspection."


    Upon hearing that voice, Wang Xi turned sharply and saw the Political Department Investigator, known as Eagle, one of Qiu Tu''s confidants, standing right behind him, looking at him expressionlessly.


    And beside Eagle stood Ah-Kun, as well as another man who was nearly two meters tall, holding a small hammer, looming like a tower ¡ª Ah-Tai.


    Seeing the Iron Triangle standing in front of him, Wang Xi''s heart fluttered for a moment.


    He was no fool; the moment he saw the three of them appear together by his side, he had pieced together everything that had happened tonight...


    Qiu Tu had long suspected him, discovered that he was up to no good! So... he had deliberately set a trap to catch a thief with the stolen goods in hand!


    At that moment, Wang Xi felt as if he had fallen into an ice cellar...


    Meanwhile.


    The Suit Man inside the villa had also heard about the incident at Wang Xi''s side.


    He smiled indifferently, then snapped the receiver back onto the telephone.


    After hanging up the phone, he listened to the increasingly urgent knocking at the villa''s door without any rush.


    Continue reading at empire


    He reached out and played with the hair of the beautiful young woman in his arms, smiling, "My beauty. I won''t be able to indulge you for the next two days."


    "But... don''t worry. Just wait for me patiently for two days, and soon I will come out to find you..."


    As he spoke these words, the villa''s front door was violently kicked open by two Security Department commissioners and a squad of Political Department investigators, fully armed and storming in.


    Upon finding the Suit Man, more than a dozen guns were swiftly pointed at him.


    The Suit Man, as if he had anticipated this, raised his hands high with his back to the crowd, then slowly stood up and turned around.


    Facing everyone, he said with a smile that was not quite a smile, "Why so agitated, honored officers?"


    "I haven''t resisted..."


    Seeing his carefree demeanor, the commissioners and investigators on the scene did not dare to take things lightly.


    The two Security Department commissioners exchanged a look, and one of them stepped forward with handcuffs, twisted the Suit Man''s hands behind his back, and cuffed him!


    The Suit Man actually didn''t resist at all, and was simply taken away from the villa by the squad of commissioners and investigators.


    After they left, Liu Fuping led another team of Investigation Bureau agents to the villa, searching for the location of the captive family members.


    But... in the entire villa, besides the young woman who had just been held in the Suit Man''s arms, there was no sign of anyone else...


    Thus, the whole arrest operation ended in a strangely perfect curtain call.


    But... the aftermath of the entire incident began to spread slowly through the night like an undercurrent...


    ...


    At the City Center Garden villa.


    Yan Chen was strolling in the garden with his daughter, Yanyan.


    The blue moonlight poured down, casting a layer of azure luster on the petals of the various precious flowers in the garden.


    The night breeze blew, gently swaying the flowers as if whispering spirits, emitting a faint fragrance.


    "Yanyan. You''ve been cooped up in the villa these past few days, not going anywhere. Are you a bit bored?"


    "Do you need me to find someone to accompany you for a walk?"


    In front of Yanyan, even Yan Chen''s face, as withered as a dead tree, eased into a smile. He looked at his daughter with the loving gaze of an ordinary father.


    However, Yanyan was wrapping her arms around Yan Chen''s arm, her laughter pure and innocent, "It''s okay, father. I know you''ve been busy with work lately, so I''m fine staying in the villa."


    "As long as I can walk with you in the garden at night, I''m very happy."


    She was naturally exquisitely beautiful, pure as a sprite. Her smile outshone even the moon''s glow. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And hearing Yanyan''s considerate words, Yan Chen gently patted her hand with a tender look in his eyes, clearly deeply loving his daughter.


    While in the midst of their affectionate father-daughter moment, suddenly, Ji Chen hurriedly approached from outside the garden.


    Yan Chen had clearly instructed his subordinates not to disturb him, so when he saw Ji Chen coming his way, his eyebrows furrowed slightly and he seemed slightly displeased.


    But he also knew that Ji Chen, a man of steady character, would never defy his orders unless something urgent or significant had occurred.


    So, after a soft grunt, he still slowly stopped walking and waited for Ji Chen to approach.


    Seeing Yan Chen stop, Yanyan, hand in hand with him, also stopped, curiously following Yan Chen''s gaze.


    Ji Chen arrived breathlessly in front of the two.


    He first nodded slightly to Yanyan, greeting her with a "Miss Yanyan."


    Then he spoke in a low voice to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief. There''s been an incident."


    Yan Chen hummed calmly, then with an indifferent gaze, he looked at his confidant and said, "What happened?"


    Ji Chen didn''t respond immediately but instead glanced at Yanyan, apparently feeling that the topic wasn''t suitable for her to hear.


    But Yanyan did not voluntarily leave, and instead still clung to Yan Chen''s arm.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen didn''t mind. His eyelids drooping slightly, he spoke in a hoarse voice to Ji Chen, "It''s fine, go ahead."


    "Yes!" Ji Chen responded, then finally spoke softly, "Half an hour ago, Qiu Tu solved the ''8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case.''


    "But... it seems this case is tied to some more complicated issues."


    -----


    Please subscribe for a lengthy update. Continuing with a daily ten-thousand-word release tonight.

 Chapter 163 Flirting with Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    ```Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s gaze deepened, and the blue moonlight draped him in a layer of cold colors.


    With a somber face, he asked in a calm tone, "More complicated matters? What are they?"


    Ji Chen looked down and said softly, "It''s said... that those thugs are not ordinary people but Cataclysmics."


    "They might have some kind of Disaster Medication or ability that can manipulate women."


    "So, they took advantage of last week''s Chaos... um... to seize and violate several family members of department heads and section chiefs who had been dismissed."


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s gaze slightly contracted, clearly a bit shocked as well.


    To seize and violate the families of a few dismissed department heads and section chiefs was no small matter. Once it got out, it would be a huge scandal.


    Before he could fully process this news, Ji Chen continued, "And... their Catastrophe Power seems to be derived from worshiping an Evil God..."


    At this, even someone as composed as Yan Chen struggled to control his expression.


    He furrowed his brow, considering a certain possibility.


    "You... aren''t about to tell me, are you, that the Evil God they worship is the one honored by the Qin Family?"


    By now, sweat had formed on Ji Chen''s forehead. He dare not wipe it away but simply nodded, saying succinctly, "According to Qiu Tu, it is so."


    "Huh!" Yan Chen exhaled a deep breath of white air.


    That breath, like a white chain, headed toward a cluster of flowers not far away.


    The next second, as the white chain descended into the flowers, a patch of precious blooms immediately withered, as if their life essence had been sucked away.


    Seeing this, Yanyan let out a cry, released Yan Chen''s arm, and ran towards the flowers, hitching up her dress.


    She knelt down, her face full of distress as she gazed at the wilted flowers scattered on the ground.


    Meanwhile, Ji Chen was so frightened that he didn''t dare to make a sound, simply standing there with his head bowed.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen''s face turned ashen, and he let out a cold snort before commanding, "Tell Qiu Tu to come see me now, immediately, right away!" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After speaking, he didn''t even bother to check on Yanyan, instead striding away with an ashen face toward the villa.


    Ji Chen bowed behind him, "Yes!"


    After giving his respect, Ji Chen straightened up and wiped his sweat.


    Seeing Yan Chen walk away, he gave a subtle signal to a few maidservants not far off.


    The maidservants quickly understood and rushed over, competing to help Yanyan up, "Miss, please get up. Don''t touch those flowers; it''s dangerous."


    "Yes, Miss, it''s cold outside. Let''s go back to your room and rest," another added.


    Yanyan was a bit petulant at first, her eyes reddening as she clung to the flowers, refusing to leave.


    But in this house, everything clearly revolved around Yan Chen. Now, with Yan Chen enraged, no one dared to provoke him in such a situation; they all just wanted peace and safety.


    So, they half-dragged, half-carried Yanyan back to the villa.


    Once Yanyan was taken back into the villa, the now deserted garden saw Ji Chen glance at the withered cluster of flowers and click his tongue.


    Then he took out his phone, standing amidst the flowers, and directly called Qiu Tu to tell him to come and report to Yan Chen...


    ...


    Qiu Tu arrived at the City Center Garden Villa twenty minutes later.


    He was dressed in a crisp, black detective uniform, with a shining double-petaled epaulette on his shoulder, eliciting salutes and greetings from all the agents he passed.


    After parking, he entered the villa and hadn''t walked far when he heard a muffled cry of a young girl.


    Following the sound, Qiu Tu turned his head and saw a beautiful girl crying on a sofa in a side room while several maidservants whispered comforting words to her.


    Qiu Tu recognized the girl''s identity: Yan Chen''s daughter, Yanyan.


    So, he watched her for a couple of seconds before signaling to a maid standing by, asking, "What''s this about?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, the maid replied with an embarrassed look, "The Bureau Chief damaged Miss''s flowers, and she''s upset about it."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze landed on the withered blossoms on the coffee table in front of the girl, thought for a moment, then stepped outside the villa and picked a few fresh flowers of the same variety from the garden.


    Recalling a technique he learned in a past life, Qiu Tu hid the fresh flowers and then went to the side room.


    Entering the side room, Qiu Tu deliberately made his footsteps a bit heavier.


    Upon hearing the "clack clack" of boots on the ground, Yanyan, with tear-streaked cheeks, looked up towards Qiu Tu.


    Seeing a stranger, her expression became a bit timid.


    Qiu Tu, noticing this, asked with a congenial smile, "Did I just see a beautiful young lady crying here?"


    "Has something bad happened?"


    Yanyan seemed shy around strangers, so she looked up imploringly at the maid beside her. Find your next read at empire


    Upon seeing this, the maid slightly bowed to Qiu Tu, "Agent Qiu."


    Although they had seen Qiu Tu many times and knew he wasn''t a stranger, they weren''t fully aware of his current position.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t bothered. He walked over, then looked at the withered flowers on the table with feigned surprise, "Is this beautiful young lady crying over the wilting of these flowers?"


    From the reactions of the maidservants, Yanyan had realized that Qiu Tu wasn''t a stranger. So, although she still didn''t speak to him, she wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes and nodded her head lightly.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu offered a comforting smile, "Every flower has its own blooming season. Birth, bloom, flourish, wither, fall; it''s a complete cycle."


    ```

 Chapter 163 Flirting with Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)_2

    "Those who truly love flowers won''t be saddened by their withering, because each withering and fall represents the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next...."Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan looked up blankly at him. Her big, "sparkling" eyes, together with the slightly red corners from crying, made her look pitifully charming.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu lowered his head to look at her and then gave a nonchalant smile, "Those are all grand truths."


    "In the face of such a beautiful young lady, it is only right for me to make the flowers bloom anew."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s hand slowly swept over the withered flowers on the table.


    The next second, Yanyan smelled a fragrance of flowers. She turned her head and saw that the withered flowers on the table had indeed come back to life and bloomed!


    With a surprised expression, she opened her eyes wide and covered her small mouth in disbelief.


    Qiu Tu then picked up the fresh flowers from the table with a smile and handed them to Yanyan, "The most beautiful flowers for the most beautiful you."


    Yanyan''s cheeks turned slightly red as she reached out her hands to receive them in a dazed manner.


    Looking at the flowers that had bloomed again, Yanyan felt slightly spellbound, as if everything were dreamlike.


    After two or three seconds, when she came to her senses and looked up at Qiu Tu, there was no trace of him in sight.


    By the time he handed over the flowers, Qiu Tu had already coolly turned around and left!


    At that moment, Yanyan stared blankly at the empty entrance of the parlor, feeling somewhat dazed....


    "Emotional Fraud Manual" Method 7 of 108 to Improve Relationships: The first impression will most likely determine your image in a girl''s mind. And this image may very well accompany you for a long time.


    Therefore, creating a good first impression can significantly increase a girl''s initial favorability towards you.


    Thus, a "well-designed" encounter, a little surprise, a "rescue" can all make you achieve twice the result with half the effort in this relationship.....


    .....


    After spending two minutes, Qiu Tu checked the favorability of Yan Chen''s daughter.


    Qiu Tu threw the withered flowers he had just magically switched out into the trash and then hummed a tune as he made his way to Yan Chen''s study.


    By the door of the study, Ji Chen had been waiting outside.


    During the day, Qiu Tu had already learned from Tang Feifei about Ji Chen''s identity: a confidant attendant that Yan Chen had brought from the Sanctuary. It was said that he was the child of a distant relative of Yan Chen.


    After bringing him to Xinjie City, Yan Chen initially let him stay in the villa to serve as a steward, but after a few experiences outside, he was placed into the Political Department for cultivation.


    A true direct descendant.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Ji Chen''s face showed no expression. He pushed open the door and said to Qiu Tu, "The Bureau Chief is waiting for you inside."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then followed Ji Chen into the study.


    In the study, the pitch-black environment swallowed all light except for that small area on the desk illuminated by dim light....


    Yan Chen was sitting in that area, his figure shrouded in shadow, quietly smoking.


    Amidst the swirling smoke, seeing Qiu Tu arrive, he slowly began, "Tell me, how is the case going?"


    "Are those criminals cultists of the Evil God? And they insulted the family of the former section chief, the head of the department?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knew the matter had indeed attracted Yan Chen''s attention.


    This also allowed him to continue pushing forward with his next plan....


    So, he slowly began, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    "After today''s arrest, the two culprits of the ''8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' have been caught."


    "However, through our investigation, we have found that they are most likely followers of the Evil God Larilo."


    "Larilo''s Cataclysm Path is Reproduction."


    "Thus, to practice their deity''s path, they have also been trying all kinds of ways to create chaos and commit despicable acts in Xinjie City."


    "Among these¡­ included assaulting the wives and daughters of former section chiefs and department heads."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen keenly sensed the key issue at hand.


    He squinted his eyes as he quietly smoked, then said, "The capture of those involved officials by the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department over the weekend should have been very discreet."


    "Where did they get their information from?"


    Yan Chen indeed continued to talk about the topic. Qiu Tu smiled inwardly, but his face showed a hesitant expression....


    Noticing this, Yan Chen uttered, "Hmm?" with sharp eyes and asked, "What? Is there something you find difficult to say?"


    Qiu Tu promptly stood up straight, then lowered his head and said, "Bureau Chief, we haven''t cleared up the investigation yet!"


    "But... there are clues pointing towards Minister Jia...."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s brows furrowed immediately, and he chastised, "Nonsense!"


    "You suspect that a minister from the Political Department is involved with the Evil God?!"


    "Do you understand what that implies!"


    Qiu Tu didn''t argue, but quickly bowed his head to apologize, "Sorry, Bureau Chief!"


    However, after apologizing, Qiu Tu stopped speaking.


    He gave Yan Chen plenty of time to think.


    Indeed, after scolding Qiu Tu, Yan Chen smoked and began to ponder quietly.


    After two whole minutes of thought, he finally spoke up in a hoarse voice, "What clues?"


    Qiu Tu, "The Evil God Lariro once personally revealed that Minister Jia is her follower. Moreover, she has also instructed Minister Jia to eliminate me."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown hourglass still ticking in the top left corner.


    [Jia Shu''s Assassination (28.5 hours)]


    [The Watchful Eyes of the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    Then he said firmly, "And I have indeed received a piece of intelligence. Minister Jia seems to be making some preparations; I cannot dismiss the possibility of an assassination attack against me."


    "According to the intelligence, the attack is very likely to happen tomorrow night."


    "So... I think it''s quite probable that the minister has some sort of connection with that Evil God."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen snorted coldly, "You certainly have strong intelligence capabilities. Even able to get information on your own minister."


    Qiu Tu said frankly without arrogance, "It''s just a coincidence."


    Yan Chen took a deep breath, snuffed out his cigarette in the ashtray, then asked, "Do you really have so much confidence in your piece of intelligence?"


    Qiu Tu stated bluntly, "I prefer to err on the side of caution. After all, nobody wants to joke with their own safety." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu added, "And... I have heard that the minister is a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. He is impervious to knives and guns, and even a pistol can''t harm him."


    "So... I worry I am completely incapable of handling his targeting."


    This time, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of surprise. It was unclear whether he was praising or being sarcastic, "Your source of information is quite interesting."


    After speaking, he waved his hand, "Alright, you can go now."


    "Don''t overthink things, trust your superiors."


    After saying this, he warned sternly, "This case is a bit sensitive, remember to contain the information. Don''t let the outside world know any details."


    "If there is an issue, I will hold only you accountable!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu promptly saluted and acknowledged, "Yes!"


    Having responded, Qiu Tu lowered his hand and left the study.


    After Qiu Tu had gone, Yan Chen remained sitting in the chair, lost in thought for a long while.


    After a moment, he finally called out softly, "Ji Chen."


    Ji Chen appeared at his call. Yan Chen said emotionlessly, "Bring Lin Ting here."


    Lin Ting was the Special Duties Department Director who had been fawning over Yan Chen at the last senior management meeting. As the head of the largest military force in the Investigation Bureau, his personal strength was clearly outstanding.


    So, hearing that he should come over, Ji Chen was clearly startled.


    He involuntarily looked at Yan Chen, then quietly asked, "Bureau Chief... You don''t seriously suspect Minister Jia, do you?"


    --------


    Three chapters with ten thousand words each. The third chapter will update around 20:00. Our Monthly Ticket ranking has dropped a lot! Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 164 Shen Lingshuang Rushes Forward (Thanks to the Alliance Hierarch

    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen glanced at him indifferently, his voice hoarse as he asked, "What? Is that not allowed?"Ji Chen softly advised, "Bureau Chief... actually, compared to Minister Jia, I feel Qiu Tu is the more suspicious one."


    He brought up old matters, "From the beginning, his relationship with Qin Shuman was somewhat unclear."


    "Afterwards, Master Qin Si''s inexplicable escape, the bizarre expansion of the Yin Caimei case, followed by the Qin Family''s estate collapse within just a few days, all seemed like they were being manipulated by an invisible hand."


    "Plus, Minister Jia previously had your complete trust, so how did you become distant from him after just a few words from Qiu Tu, and now he has even become a suspect?"


    Ji Chen genuinely cared for Yan Chen''s well-being, so his sentences were urgent and rushed.


    However... if he were Qiu Tu, he would never choose to persuade Yan Chen at this time.


    What is Yan Chen''s character trait?


    It''s being suspicious.


    A person with such a trait would not fully trust anyone and would start suspecting those around him over the slightest doubt.


    Jia Shu is a prime example.


    Indeed, Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai had been adding fuel to the flames, but the root cause of the event was Jia Shu''s attempt to downplay the Yin Caimei case without consulting Yan Chen.


    That is what triggered Yan Chen''s vigilance and suspicion.


    And Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai were only going along with Yan Chen''s thoughts, telling him what he wanted to hear.


    Now, while Yan Chen was suspecting Jia Shu, Ji Chen stood by Jia Shu''s side. With Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, he would not listen to Ji Chen''s defense of Jia Shu, but would instead... suspect Ji Chen.


    Indeed, after listening to Ji Chen''s words. Yan Chen gave Ji Chen an indifferent look with his aged eyes and countered with a question, "Ji Chen, are you trying to teach me how to do my job?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen finally realized something was wrong. His body shook, and he quickly bowed, saying, "No, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen did not speak, only quietly watching him.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds...


    The atmosphere in the study became increasingly tense, so stifling it was almost difficult to breathe, while sweat on Ji Chen''s face and forehead began to bead more and more...


    Finally, just when Ji Chen could barely hold on any longer, Yan Chen slowly spoke,


    "Alright. Go call Lin Ting."


    "Yes!" In just those few short seconds, Ji Chen felt as if he had walked out of the jaws of a giant beast.


    Without any further thought of opposing or advising Yan Chen, he quickly bowed in response, then took out his communicator, and stepped outside the study to call the Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting...


    ...


    After leaving Yan Chen''s study. Qiu Tu hummed a tune as he walked outside.


    Although Yan Chen had verbally reprimanded Qiu Tu and had not made any explicit statements, Qiu Tu, who knew Yan Chen well, could tell from Yan Chen''s overall demeanor and tone that Yan Chen had also begun to suspect Minister Jia''s true stance.


    Given Yan Chen''s style, when the time came, he would most likely choose to protect himself and verify Minister Jia''s intentions.


    With this in mind, even if Minister Jia truly came to attack him tomorrow night, he wouldn''t need to call the Security Department or Tang Feifei to act.


    Although they too could keep Qiu Tu safe, doing so would expose Qiu Tu''s relationship with them.


    Qiu Tu felt that things had not yet reached such a critical level.


    And besides... to catch a thief, one must present evidence, and without Yan Chen witnessing Minister Jia attacking him, how could Yan Chen truly believe there''s something wrong with Minister Jia.


    After all, if Jia denied everything later, given his former closeness with Yan Chen, it was really uncertain who Yan Chen would believe...


    ''Two birds with one stone.''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu made his way through the corridor of Yan Chen''s study and left his villa.


    Before leaving, he also made a point to check the side hall.


    Yan Chen''s daughter, the angelic Yanyan, was no longer there, which slightly disappointed Qiu Tu...


    He drove away from Yan Chen''s garden villa.


    Qiu Tu did not return to the Investigation Bureau to labor over the interrogation of the Suit Man: he was facing a major challenge tomorrow. If he got past it, he would have plenty of time to interrogate, and if not, there would be no need anymore.


    With this time, he would be better off resting well to prepare for the crisis tomorrow.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu remained vigilant as he drove back to Old Alley Street.


    It had only been a bit over a week since he had left Old Alley Street.


    Yet when he parked the car, Qiu Tu felt almost unfamiliar with Old Alley Street¡ªthe once dilapidated road had been preliminarily repaired at some unknown time.


    And many neighbors, some familiar and others strangers, were either pushing carts or carrying pots, setting up stalls by the roadside.


    The previously chaotic street had somehow given birth to a small night market.


    Seeing the car that symbolized privilege, the neighbors who would normally scatter out of fear did not disperse. Instead, a few bold ones even approached and proactively asked, "Boss, would you like some boiled corn? Just cooked, very tasty. Only for 3 Copper Yuans."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    "Give me two."


    Paying for the two cobs of corn from the unfamiliar neighbor, Qiu Tu got out of the car and strolled through the small night market, making his way toward his home.


    However, before he reached the entrance of his building, he heard a familiar girl''s voice haggling nearby.


    Shen Lingshuang, "Uncle Chen, how much are these eggs?"


    Uncle Chen said, "1.5 Copper Yuan each."


    Shen Lingshuang squatted down, inspected the eggs, and tilted her head to ask, "Can I get a discount if I buy a lot?"


    Uncle Chen said with a chuckle, "Of course. If you buy a lot, I''ll charge you 1.4 Copper Yuan each."


    "1.4 Copper Yuan?" Shen Lingshuang tilted her head to calculate, "Okay!"


    With that, she took out a white handkerchief from her pocket, carefully unfolded it, and counted out 7 Copper Yuan, "Then give me 5!"


    Uncle Chen: ??


    "Wait a minute! Five is considered a lot?"


    Shen Lingshuang pouted and wrinkled her nose, "Of course. I eat one egg a day, it takes five days to finish them all, isn''t that a lot?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s naive words, Uncle Chen laughed heartily. He waved his aged hands, "All right, all right. Let it be 7 Copper Yuan then."


    "If it weren''t for you fighting for us at the City Hall for a chance to repair the road, if it weren''t for you helping us organize the night market, we wouldn''t be living such good days."


    "Haha. Thank you, Uncle Chen!" Shen Lingshuang cheered and thanked him.


    Then she carefully picked out five slightly larger eggs from the basket, put them in her bag, and stood up contentedly, proudly continuing to stroll through the night market...


    Qiu Tu, who was in the distance and listening to the two''s conversation, was a little surprised.


    Shen Lingshuang helped get the road from the City Hall?


    The night market was also organized with Shen Lingshuang''s help?


    For a moment, Qiu Tu found it a bit unbelievable.


    He recalled the Shen Lingshuang in his mind: the one who would brighten up with a bit of sunshine and behave at a spanking, a little masochist.


    At most, maybe add the title of a ... fairly reliable pharmacist?


    Yet, how had it been only a week without seeing her, and she''d transformed into a "hero" in the neighbors'' mouths?


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was stunned, Shen Lingshuang inadvertently looked up. Their gazes crossed the crowd lining the whole street and slowly met.


    That instant, Shen Lingshuang also froze in place.


    The next second, her eyes welled up with tears, and she dashed through the crowd toward Qiu Tu!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also snapped back to reality and stood still, smiling and opening his arms to wait for Shen Lingshuang rushing towards him.


    Having run up to Qiu Tu, Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with his arms open waiting for her to leap into his embrace, lifted her little short legs, and kicked him hard in the thigh, saying fiercely, "You still remember to come back!"


    "Did you forget about me already?" sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu, who had been expecting a warm ending, was a bit stunned and amused.


    Just as he was about to argue, he saw Shen Lingshuang gently put down the bag with the eggs on the ground, then leaped, jumping into his arms!


    Qiu Tu was startled and clumsily caught Shen Lingshuang.


    The girl''s soft body in his arms felt so small yet so resolute....


    .....


    Ten minutes later.


    In Qiu Tu''s cramped room.


    Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang squatted on the old sofa, munching on corn, eating boiled eggs, and chatting about what had happened to each of them over the week.


    Qiu Tu crunched on the corn and then turned with a bit of surprise, "So... you reviewed all the documents sent down to the Planning Areas by the Sanctuary."


    "And you found that the City Hall hadn''t repaired the roads within the time frame set by the Sanctuary?"


    "Thus, you led the neighbors to surround the City Hall building, demanding a proper plan and its implementation?"


    "And to quell the escalating situation, the City Hall prioritized repairing the roads of our Old Alley Street?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded with pride!


    Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Didn''t the City Hall kick you out?"


    Shen Lingshuang said with a giggle, "The City Hall isn''t a violent agency. If they wanted to clear the area, they could only ask the Public Security Bureau of the Investigation Bureau for help."


    "But with so many of us working at the Investigation Bureau, could I be bullied by just any ordinary agent?"


    "With one call to Eagle, and after Eagle spoke a few words with the team leader of the Public Security Bureau, they didn''t dare to rough us up."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu silently gave a thumbs up.


    This tactic of using leverage was fitting for someone who had slept in the same bed as him. She truly learned from the best.


    Thinking this way, he curiously asked again, "Then what''s the story with the entire street market downstairs?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang smiled and said, "That started with a couple of Cataclysmic Potions I made for you."


    -----


    Thank you, "Xinjie", for the generous 100,000 reward! Congratulations on becoming the Alliance Hierarch of our book! Wishing you good health, all the best, and great wealth~~


    Still three chapters of 10,000 words, haha. The third chapter will update around 8 PM. We''ve dropped a lot in the Monthly Ticket rankings recently! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 165 This is My First Kiss (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    Hearing what Shen Lingshuang said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh."Start from making the Cataclysmic Potion for me?"


    He reached out and flicked Shen Lingshuang on the forehead, teasing the girl, "Why don''t you start from the Cataclysm itself?"


    "Ouch!" Shen Lingshuang winced in pain, clutching her little head, and looked at Qiu Tu with a petulantly fierce expression, puffing up with anger, "You''re such a violent maniac! A jerk!"


    "After so many days not coming home, the first thing you do when you return is hit someone!"


    If it had been Liu Fuping or Qin Shuman who were angry now, Qiu Tu would probably try to comfort them. But¡­.this is Shen Lingshuang we''re talking about.


    Considering this little masochist, Qiu Tu, who had already figured out her personality, continued nibbling on his corn, and said with a smile, "Then you don''t like it?"


    Shen Lingshuang turned her head away, pouting, "I don''t like it!"


    After saying this, she sneakily glanced at Qiu Tu''s reaction.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu, unaffected, continued to nibble on his corn, she stiffly held on for one second¡­ two seconds¡­ and couldn''t bear it anymore.


    She bared her little fangs and leaped onto Qiu Tu, biting towards the corn and complaining, "Eat, eat, eat, that''s all you do, not even thinking of comforting someone! Bad guy!"


    Shen Lingshuang''s actions were so unexpected that¡­ Qiu Tu was startled and reflexively took the corn away from his mouth.


    He really did not have any other bad intentions, he was just purely protecting his food.


    However, he hadn''t anticipated that¡­ their movements now took on a different flavor¡­


    Seeing Qiu Tu move the corn away, Shen Lingshuang, who was flying towards him, realized something was off. Her eyes widened as she reflexively tried to pull back, but how could she stop her momentum mid-air!


    So, as her expression changed, all she could do was retract her tiny fangs and try to lessen the weight of her body.


    Thus¡­ what had started as a completely normal struggle turned into something that seemed like falling into someone''s arms and¡­ a forceful kiss.


    Shen Lingshuang flew into Qiu Tu''s arms. Their lips gently touched.


    Qiu Tu, smelling the pleasant fragrance of gardenias from Shen Lingshuang, feeling the softness between their lips¡­ was also a bit dazed¡­


    Time seemed to stop at that moment. Their lips pressed together, cuddled close, staring wide-eyed at each other, the atmosphere turned incredibly strange¡­


    But the next second, Qiu Tu started laughing.


    He gently pried open Shen Lingshuang''s cherry lips.


    Shen Lingshuang made a soft "Mmm~", tried to resist, but before she could do anything, she stopped again¡­


    This lasted for several minutes.


    Until both of them could hardly breathe, Shen Lingshuang, with blushing cheeks, pushed Qiu Tu away and hopped off the sofa!


    After jumping off the sofa, despite clearly being shy, she still tried to act tough, speaking with feigned fierceness, "You, you took advantage of me!"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu felt not the slightest guilt for taking advantage, as he leaned back on the sofa, legs crossed, touching his mouth and reminiscing, "Pretty sweet."


    Shen Lingshuang''s face turned bright red at once.


    She pointed at Qiu Tu, "You, you¡­ you¡­"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Indeed very sweet. Don''t you ever feel how sweet you are?"


    Shen Lingshuang, clearly too embarrassed, immediately covered her face and ran off.


    Watching the little girl''s adorable escape, Qiu Tu laughed heartily twice, feeling like he had made a profit¡ªafter Shen Lingshuang left, her corn was all his now!


    And to say, the Wang Family''s Aunt''s corn really was quite delicious!


    While Qiu Tu continued to lower his head and gnaw on the corn, Shen Lingshuang timidly poked her little head out from the bedroom.


    With her face still red, but showing a defiant expression, she called out, "Hey, Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked up from Shen Lingshuang''s corn, his face full of question marks, "What''s up?"


    Shen Lingshuang softly said, "That, that was... my first kiss."


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "As if it wasn''t for me."


    "Huh?" Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with surprise, her face growing even more bashful.


    As if she had thought of something, she coyly asked, "It was also your¡­ your first kiss? Then the two of us¡­"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Right. Today''s first kiss."


    Shen Lingshuang: ??


    "Jerk!" Shen Lingshuang stamped her foot in frustration, and closed the door, ignoring Qiu Tu!


    After teasing Shen Lingshuang for a while, Qiu Tu felt much better. The tension in his heart about tomorrow night''s big battle also seemed to have eased a lot. This was an unexpected surprise.


    After dinner, Qiu Tu washed up and then got into bed to sleep with Shen Lingshuang in his arms.


    Perhaps it had been several days since she had been held to sleep, Shen Lingshuang was a bit uncomfortable, always fidgeting.


    In the end, only after Qiu Tu had given her butt a few firm spanks did the little girl blush and stop squirming¡­


    .....


    [Jia Shu''s Assassination (13 hours)]


    [Evil God''s Watch (¡Þ)]


    A night without words. The next day.


    Qiu Tu awoke from his slumber to find Shen Lingshuang still nestled in his arms.


    Looking down, he saw Shen Lingshuang blinking her big, watery eyes back at him.


    Feeling the tickle of her long eyelashes on his chin as Shen Lingshuang fluttered her eyes, Qiu Tu couldn''t help laughing.


    After horsing around in bed for a while, he gently smacked the girl''s pretty buttocks a few times, "Alright. Time to get up."


    "Today, I still have a lot of work to do!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang also obediently got up.


    She went to freshen up first, then casually tied her hair into a high ponytail and hummed a tune as she began to make breakfast at home.


    It was at this moment that Qiu Tu realized Shen Lingshuang had somehow managed to create a small kitchen in his less than twenty-square-meter apartment.


    Looking at the small area fully equipped with firewood, rice, oil, and salt, and watching the girl busily and competently working there, Qiu Tu suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of home.


    After breakfast, Shen Lingshuang helped Qiu Tu fetch his uniform, stood on tiptoe, and tenderly helped him put it on, looking very much like a diligent wife...


    Seeing Qiu Tu off at the door, he gently hugged Shen Lingshuang and turned to leave.


    Just then, Shen Lingshuang standing at the door called out to him, "Qiu Tu."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu curiously turned to look at her.


    With her hands behind her back, and her feet scuffing the ground, Shen Lingshuang hesitated before saying, "Qiu Tu, can I buy something?"


    This was the first time Shen Lingshuang had taken the initiative to want to buy something, so Qiu Tu was also somewhat curious, "What is it?"


    Shen Lingshuang said a bit embarrassedly, "A communicator..."


    She bowed her head, looking a little aggrieved as she said, "It''s just that, you often suddenly don''t come home..."


    "I''m always anxious when I''m home alone, worried about your safety."


    "Sometimes I''d try to contact you using Eagle, Ah-Kun, and their communicators."


    "But they all say you''re busy, and if you''re not contacting me there must be a reason, telling me to just patiently wait."


    "So..."


    Seeing the girl looking so pitiful, Qiu Tu''s gaze softened. He gently touched her head, "Sure. If you want to buy one, just buy it."


    "Do you have money on you? Do you need me to give you some more?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s agreement, Shen Lingshuang''s world seemed to suddenly fill with color, her eyes lighting up as she smiled, "No need, no need!"


    "I have money! I didn''t spend that much buying Cataclysmic Material!"


    "Besides, I''ve been making potions myself and selling them, so I have even more money now!"


    As she spoke, it seemed she remembered something, and she slapped her forehead with her hand before saying, "Oh! That''s right!" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Look at me, I almost forgot again!"


    Saying this, she hurried back into the house with a pitter-patter of her feet.


    After a moment, she came before Qiu Tu with a small bag she had sewn by hand and handed it to him with both hands.


    Qiu Tu took the bag and asked curiously, "What''s this?"


    Shen Lingshuang grinned, showing her cute little canines, and said cheerfully, "These are the Cataclysmic Potions I''ve made by collecting Cataclysmic Material during this time. They each have different effects."


    "Worried that you''d use them incorrectly, I''ve also annotated the name and effects of the potions on the bottles. You can study them yourself."


    "Actually... I wanted to explain them slowly to you last night, but you, but you..."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang recalled the first kiss they had shared last night, and her face turned red.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu''s gaze became even more gentle. He hugged the girl once more and bent down, pressing his lips again against hers before whispering, "Today, I gave my first kiss to you as well."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu left coolly with the potions.


    Meanwhile, behind him, Shen Lingshuang blushed, pursed her lips, and watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, steam practically coming out of her embarrassed head...


    However, after being dazed for about two seconds, Shen Lingshuang suddenly snapped out of it!


    Wait a minute, he gave his first kiss to her yesterday and today. What about the day before yesterday, and the days even before that?!


    "Pah! Jerk! He definitely went out to fool around these past two days!" Thinking of this, Shen Lingshuang instantly snapped out of her daze, her hands crossed in front of her chest as she stormed back into the house.


    But after sitting idly at home for a while and thinking about Qiu Tu''s dangerous life outside, she let out a small sigh and got ready to go out to buy a communicator...


    ...


    At this time, having kissed Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu also hummed a tune as he went downstairs to drive.


    When he got into the car, he licked his lips, still tasting the sweetness...


    "This girl''s lips really are delicious..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu did not start the car but first opened Shen Lingshuang''s package, intending to see what she had prepared for him.


    The package contained three potions in total. It wasn''t a large number, but considering the short preparation time of just over a week, Shen Lingshuang''s refining speed was very fast.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu grabbed the first potion and examined it.


    In delicate script, it was labeled "Nameless Potion."


    "Nameless Potion?" Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then started reading the explanation.


    "Byproduct of a failed attempt at making ''Petrification Skin Potion''."


    "Based on the trial with Xiao Bai the dog, after drinking, it does not petrify the skin. But... one can turn into a little stone."


    "Should be reversible after 2 hours."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    ------


    I was blocked again, thus the delay.


    Three chapters, ten thousand words haha. Seeking Monthly Tickets! Continuing the ten thousand-word challenge tonight!

 Chapter 166 The Bewitching Female Secretary (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    Seeing the strange description of the potion, Qiu Tu was truly a walking question mark."Wait a minute, a potion for petrified skin turns you into stone yourself?"


    What kind of potion genius is this?


    After all... just say it did or didn''t petrify, will you!


    While silently criticizing in his mind, Qiu Tu set the bottle of "Fossil Potion" aside and then looked at the second potion.


    The second potion was named "Nameless Potion 2".


    With a forehead full of dark lines, Qiu Tu could roughly guess the remark on this potion.


    As expected...


    "A byproduct of a failed attempt at making the ''Giant Strength Expansion Potion''."


    "According to the observations of the test subject, a small white dog, after drinking it, it failed to increase the user''s size and strength. However... it can cause certain body parts, such as an arm, leg, or head, to enlarge and gain strength."


    "The potion''s effects last for a maximum of 3 hours."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    At this moment, Qiu Tu''s head was filled with little question marks.


    He could already imagine the scene where Shen Lingshuang gave the little white dog the potion, and its head suddenly enlarged, chasing her around and biting.


    What kind of sins did this little white dog commit in its past life to end up as the test subject for a "Potion Genius" like Shen Lingshuang?


    Qiu Tu recalled that when he had first met Shen Lingshuang, she told him about the fever-reducing potion she had made for her father. Although it did bring his fever down, her father ended up without any body temperature at all.


    Truly a Medicine God...


    When he first asked her to concoct the "Cataclysm Awakening Potion," his "Crisis Intuition" reminded him that he could only attempt it every three days. Could it be because of her mystical "Medicine God Constitution"?


    Silently lamenting in his heart, Qiu Tu warily took out the third potion.


    This time, Shen Lingshuang had finally not botched the potion.


    "Iron Will Potion"


    "Effect: After consumption, it can strengthen the mind tremendously for one hour. It not only effectively prevents mental damage, but also enhances concentration and pain tolerance."


    "The little white dog chased me for five whole streets after having a little bit of this potion! I threw several rocks at it and still couldn''t drive it away!"


    Looking at the remark left by Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu had a forehead full of dark lines.


    If he were that little white dog, he wouldn''t let Shen Lingshuang off either...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu pocketed the Iron Will Potion and temporarily set the other two aside.


    Although the effects of the three potions varied, only the last one, which could increase mental resilience, would be of some help in today''s battle.


    As for the other two, maybe...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly paused in his actions.


    All three potions, if successfully concocted, would have been one for physical defense (Petrification Skin Potion), one for mental defense (Iron Will Potion), and one for offensive use (Giant Strength Expansion)...


    At this thought, Qiu Tu felt a mix of emotions.


    He couldn''t help but look in the direction of his home...


    In a trance, he seemed to see Shen Lingshuang, without a communicator, sitting dumbly on the old sofa, propping up her chin, staring out the door, waiting for his return...


    And that unlucky little white dog would be lazily sprawled at her feet, curled up and asleep...


    ''Damn it. I hate this sappy stuff!''


    ''No woman in heart, the firmer the trigger gets!''


    Cursing in his mind, Qiu Tu pressed the accelerator, his face disgruntled, and headed towards the Investigation Bureau!


    However, on the way to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu still took out his communicator and found an excuse to vent his anger by giving Eagle and Ah-Kun a good scolding!


    After the tirade, Qiu Tu tossed the communicator aside, leaving the two on the other end bewildered.


    They racked their brains but couldn''t understand why they were being scolded. They could only scratch their heads and chalk it up to Qiu Tu being in a bad mood.


    After all, Qiu Tu couldn''t possibly be taking out his frustration about Shen Lingshuang on them, could he? Experience tales with empire


    All they did was not lend a communicator to Shen Lingshuang.


    Thinking so, they didn''t take it to heart: after all, to them, Qiu Tu was a big brother, almost like a father. If he scolds, so be it. They had no complaints...


    Like that, Qiu Tu sped all the way to the Investigation Bureau.


    Having vented all the way, his mood had finally improved a great deal.


    Getting out of the car, Qiu Tu locked up and prepared to go to the Investigation Bureau Office Building to start his day at work.


    However, he had hardly taken a step when a familiar voice called out to him, "Qiu Tu~~"


    At that voice, Qiu Tu turned around and saw Liu Fuping standing under a nearby tree, sneakily waving at him.


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned before a light went on in his head: Hiss... Could it be that the beautiful lady wants to get up to something naughty today?


    With that thought, he walked over, twirling his car keys, and asked curiously, "Sister Liu, why are you waiting here for me today? Is there something you need?"


    Liu Fuping, looking like she was about to do something secretive, glanced left and right to ensure there was nobody else around in the parking lot. Then, grabbing Qiu Tu''s hand, she whispered, "Come with me."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the Crisis Countdown in the top left corner, with no new Crisis Warning, suggesting there was no danger.


    And so, he followed her, ready to find out what kind of potion the beautiful young widow had in store for him today. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After leaving the parking lot, Liu Fuping in uniform, hands behind her back, tiptoeing, peering left and right.


    Once she made sure no one had seen them, she pulled Qiu Tu into a residential house across from the Investigation Bureau.

 Chapter 166 Glamorous Female Secretary (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)_2

    He entered the courtyard of the civilian residence, and Liu Fuping stopped in her tracks.She pulled Qiu Tu aside and whispered, "Qiu Tu, it was crowded in the office building earlier, and I couldn''t explain it properly. Now, let me first explain the situation to you, and then you can make your own decision."


    With that, Liu Fuping pointed inside the house and continued in a low voice, "Inside is Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary."


    "She was sent by Commissioner Jiang and would like to have a chat with you."


    "Commissioner Jiang?" Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu slightly raised his eyebrows in surprise.


    Commissioner Jiang, whose name was Jiang Zhenpeng, was the first commissioner of the Xinjie City Municipal Committee and one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City.


    Or to put it more bluntly, he was the theoretical highest decision-maker of Xinjie City.


    However... it was unclear whether he had other plans or if the City Hall was simply too weak, but in any case... his presence had not been strongly felt in Xinjie City that year.


    He was far less influential than General Ye, who had bloodily purged the city''s underground gangs, and Yan Chen, who had forcefully suppressed various powers in Xinjie City.


    In fact, even after the military and the Investigation Bureau collectively arrested so many officials from the City Hall last week, all he did was protest verbally, further giving off the impression of someone impotent and blustering, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.


    And now... he was prepared to meet with him?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask softly, "Why does he want to see me? And... why would he contact you?"


    Liu Fuping explained seriously in a low voice, "Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary is actually our liaison in Xinjie City..."


    That single statement nearly fried Qiu Tu''s CPU.


    He quickly said, "Hold on a second. Let me sort this out."


    Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and then at the house.


    Liu Fuping was a covert agent planted by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, and Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary was their contact person in Xinjie City¡­


    So... does this mean Commissioner Jiang actually had a secret collaboration with Director Liu from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?


    And while Liu Fuping seemed to be a scout for the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, she was actually... also working for the Xinjie City Hall?!


    In an instant, Qiu Tu felt that many things were explained.


    No wonder Liu Fuping and her group of spies from Eastern City could remain hidden in Xinjie City.


    No wonder Qiu Tu found it strange before: Eastern City and Xinjie City were two different cities, and even if Liu Fuping caught Yan Chen red-handed, it would be difficult for Director Liu from Eastern City to make a move.


    Now, it seems like a cunning collaboration between the two big shots.


    Director Liu was the face, while Commissioner Jiang stayed in the background.


    Thus, even if Liu Fuping and her group were exposed, with the hostile relationship between Director Liu and Yan Chen as a cover, Commissioner Jiang could continue successfully hiding behind the scenes.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s skin crawled.


    Indeed... there wasn''t a single simple character among these old foxes.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu felt that it might not be a bad idea to make contact with the other party after all?


    With that thought, he nodded to Liu Fuping, "Alright. I''ll meet with her."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu had agreed to meet with Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary after only hearing the first sentence, Liu Fuping was momentarily dumbfounded.


    She blinked in surprise and said, "Is that enough?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then headed toward the inside of the house.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping quickly followed.


    Once inside, Qiu Tu saw a tall woman with a seductive air.


    She appeared to be in her early twenties, with bold makeup, black eyeliner that extended upward, and under thick, curled lashes, a pair of eyes shone with proud luster.


    The dark red lipstick and bright violet eyeshadow made her seem both enchanting and dangerous.


    ''This woman is not to be trifled with...''


    With just one glance, Qiu Tu made an initial assessment of Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was sizing up the woman before him, the confidential secretary was also sizing up Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, she extended her delicate hand first with a smiling corner of her mouth, "Hello Chief Qiu, I am Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary, Tao Yaoyao."


    Qiu Tu also extended his hand, grasping Tao Yaoyao''s, "Hello, Secretary Tao."


    At that moment, Liu Fuping had just entered the room.


    Seeing that the two had already introduced themselves to each other, she opened her mouth and suddenly felt a bit superfluous.


    So when she saw that they were ready to start talking, she thought for a moment and simply volunteered to leave the room and stand guard outside.


    Inside the room.


    Qiu Tu looked at the enchanting woman before him and took the initiative to ask, "I don''t know why Secretary Tao is looking for me, what is the matter?"


    Tao Yaoyao, with a smile brimming in her eyes, uttered two words, "Recruitment."


    "Recruitment?" Qiu Tu''s eyes were unreadable, betraying no clear attitude, "It seems Commissioner Jiang has taken notice of me?"


    Tao Yaoyao said with a smile, "Chief Qiu is now a person of great influence in Xinjie City."


    "The newly emerged Cataclysmic, the mastermind behind the destruction of the Qin Family, the brilliant detective who unearthed evidence of illegal activities by 33 mid-to-senior level officials, not to mention the talent who has defeated the United Front several times....."


    "Even if Commissioner Jiang wanted to ignore me, it''d be hard, right?"


    Listening to Tao Yaoyao''s flattering words, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Pleasant things, anyone could say them.


    If they really wanted to recruit, they still had to offer enough benefits...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu bluntly asked, "So, what price is Commissioner Jiang willing to pay for such a talent, expert, and leading figure like me?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was indeed interested, the smile in Tao Yaoyao''s eyes deepened, but she didn''t state a price directly, instead she said with a laugh, "Commissioner Jiang treasures all talents immensely." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "As long as it''s not an outrageous demand, Commissioner Jiang will accept it. So.... Chief Qiu, you might mention your own terms, and I will take them back for Commissioner Jiang to consider."


    Listening to those vague words, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly to himself.


    It seemed that Tao Yaoyao''s visit was likely just a preliminary probe of his attitude. Once they were certain he really wanted to defect, then Commissioner Jiang would likely make an appearance...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s mind turned rapidly, and he came up with a plan...


    He said with a smile, "For me to name my price, always seems too mercenary."


    "How about this, Secretary Tao. Tonight, I will send Commissioner Jiang a big gift."


    "If Commissioner Jiang likes it, he can then contact me with his sincerity."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu didn''t even wait for Tao Yaoyao''s reply, but directly turned and left the room.


    The two''s probing, from the moment Qiu Tu entered the room, lasted only about a minute.


    Find adventures at empire


    So when Liu Fuping saw Qiu Tu come out so quickly, she was a bit stunned, "That was fast?"


    But seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t look back and continued walking, she turned to glance inside the room, then quickly followed him.


    After leaving the civilian residence with Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping quickened her pace to catch up to him and asked in a soft voice, "What happened? Did the talks fall apart?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at her and shook his head slightly, "No. It''s just... she clearly came only to confirm my attitude, rather than to really negotiate."


    "So it was enough to clarify my stance, no need for a detailed chat."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and inquired, "Did you tell Commissioner Jiang the news that I was at odds with Yan Chen and Jia Shu?"


    Liu Fuping''s face was filled with embarrassment, "Previously... I did report on your information."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu did not hold Liu Fuping accountable. After all, a few days ago, their relationship was not that close, and they each had their own agendas. So, reporting his information and situation was a very normal thing to do.


    But now...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced at the Loyalty rating of 95 points Liu Fuping had, pondered for a moment, stopped walking, looked into her eyes, and said, "Let''s forget about the past."


    "But Sister Liu¡­ from now on, can you not report my information to Commissioner Jiang or Director Liu any more?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping was clearly stunned.


    As it was said earlier, people are not machines, nor are they the cold NPCs in a game.


    Even with high Loyalty, Liu Fuping might not realize Qiu Tu''s current standing in her heart until faced with a crucial decision.


    ------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words, haha. Old rules, third chapter around 8 PM. The Monthly Ticket for the new book is about to drop out of the top ten, ask for Monthly Tickets! Please!

 Chapter 167 Promotion for Everyone! (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    So, when Qiu Tu first placed a critical choice before Liu Fuping, it was the first time she felt a conceptual shock.She wasn''t a fool, Qiu Tu''s words, though diplomatic, were essentially asking her if she could betray her original organization and lean towards Qiu Tu, or... put Qiu Tu before the organization.


    On one side was the person who had completely conquered her with personality charisma and... physical strength.


    On the other side was the organization she had been loyal to.


    At that moment, Liu Fuping''s mind went blank.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t pressure her¡ªtrusting the judgment of the Loyalty Game, he confidently gave Liu Fuping some time to think.


    He said, "It''s okay, Sister Liu. I can understand if you''re hesitant right now."


    "I''ll give you one day to think it over."


    "Tomorrow, you can give me your answer."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu gently patted Liu Fuping''s delicate shoulder and then turned to leave the alley...


    He came alone to the building of the Investigation Bureau. This time, no one interrupted and called Qiu Tu away midway. Qiu Tu smoothly made his way to the investigation team of the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon arriving at the investigation team, almost all the team members had arrived.


    Perhaps because both culprits were in custody, everyone seemed a bit excited, sitting there discussing the details of yesterday''s capture and... sighing over Wang Xi.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t dampen everyone''s enthusiasm, but rather, he smiled and encouraged, "We caught the culprits in just a few days, which proves our capabilities."


    "However, let''s not become complacent or impetuous. After all.... we still need to sort out the details and evidence of the case clearly."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu glanced at Liu Fuping, who had just come in, and then at Cao Dabiao, before giving his orders, "Sister Liu, Big Biao, each of you take a team and proceed with the interrogation."


    "Big Biao, you take care of the Suit Man. Sister Liu, you''re familiar with Wang Xi, so you handle him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Liu Fuping, still somewhat preoccupied, instantly switched to work mode, and she quickly saluted with Cao Dabiao, "Yes, sir!"


    Seeing them accept their tasks, Qiu Tu added another reminder, "During the interrogation, remember one key thing."


    "We are... the investigation team for the 8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    "Don''t ask about or record topics irrelevant to the robbery case."


    "We only interrogate on what we should."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reminder, both straightened their expressions, grasping the deeper implication in his words.


    So, under Qiu Tu''s arrangement, the team members quickly split into two groups and began interrogating the Suit Man and Wang Xi respectively.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he took advantage of this time to sit in the office of the investigation team and fill out the "Promotion Application Form."


    Now, all of Qiu Tu''s subordinates were his own people, with each of their loyalty ratings exceeding 60, 70¡ªa true direct force.


    Their contribution to the "Yin Caimei case" was significant. At the time, Qiu Tu had promised them a promotion and a raise.


    These past few days had been too busy, so there hadn''t been time to write the application form, but now with the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" cracked, Qiu Tu naturally wanted to take the opportunity to write the application form and promote them.


    Qiu Tu''s confidants, with Cao Dabiao as a First Level Detective, Chen Feng and Liu Fuping as Second-Class Investigators, and others including Eagle and Ah-Kun as ordinary Third-Level Detectives.


    Qiu Tu''s applications were quite egalitarian: everyone was to be promoted one level on the spot.


    Cao Dabiao would be promoted to Deputy Staff Leader, Chen Feng and Liu Fuping to First Level Detectives, and other detectives to Second-Class Investigators.


    Qiu Tu guessed that such an application would probably not all be approved by the superiors, and it was very likely that they would hold back Cao Dabiao.


    But that didn''t matter; to apply was to gain experience. Next time there was a contribution, another application would be easier.


    And... Qiu Tu''s reason for filling out this application form wasn''t just to help his confidants get promoted¡ªhe also wanted... to use this opportunity to see Jia Shu again and gauge his superior''s intentions.


    With this in mind, after filling out the application form, Qiu Tu stood up and went straight to Jia Shu''s office with the application form in hand.


    "Knock, knock, knock..."


    Accompanied by Qiu Tu''s knocking, a gentle voice from inside replied, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed the door and entered, only to see Jia Shu leisurely enjoying some music.


    He was reclining in his chair, legs crossed, eyes slightly closed. His left hand rested on his knee, and with his right hand, he was rhythmically tapping to the beat of the tune in the air.


    Even Qiu Tu''s entry didn''t interrupt Jia Shu''s leisure, who continued to entertain himself.


    Observing this, Qiu Tu didn''t disturb Jia Shu but stood at the door, quietly waiting for him to finish indulging.


    Two minutes passed, the music ended, and Jia Shu, seemingly moved, stretched out his hand to wipe the corner of his eye, then remarked, "Music really does have a magical power."


    After speaking, he turned off the radio and reverted back to his demeanor as a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau.


    He looked up at Qiu Tu, his face behind the gold-framed glasses wearing a semblance of a smile, "Chief Qiu, what brings you here?"


    At Jia Shu''s question, Qiu Tu stepped forward, placed the application form on Jia Shu''s desk, then stated, "Minister, this is the promotion application for the Yin Caimei case investigation team."


    "The people below also contributed a lot to this case, and most are experienced senior detectives, so I thought of promoting them all one level."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu picked up the application form and carefully reviewed it.


    With no word from him, naturally, Qiu Tu wouldn''t speak up either. So for a while, the office became quiet.


    After looking it over for a bit, Jia Shu suddenly asked, "By the way, Qiu Tu, how is the 8.16 case coming along?"


    Before his visit, Qiu Tu had anticipated all the potential questions Jia Shu might ask.


    Regarding Jia Shu''s query, it certainly fell within his expectations, so he wasn''t at all surprised and smoothly replied, "Reporting to the minister, the case has been cracked, and the murderer has been caught."


    Jia Shu gave an "Oh?" and looked at him, asking further, "That quick?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in affirmation and said, "It''s mainly because we happened to come across some clues."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly and didn''t say anything more.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also kept silent, continuing to quietly observe Jia Shu.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion or not.


    In his memory, Jia Shu always had a smile that wasn''t quite a smile on his face but always seemed to have a hint of ruthlessness in his eyes.


    Anyone who observed carefully would know that the person before them was extremely troublesome to deal with.


    But today... Jia Shu was completely different from before.


    Today, he appeared to be inherently more carefree, with the ruthlessness in his eyes replaced by a touch of cynical detachment.


    ''Is it an illusion?''


    Qiu Tu quietly searched for more differences in Jia Shu.


    But... after looking for a long time, aside from the discovery he had already made, he couldn''t find anything else unusual.


    And at this moment, while Qiu Tu was observing Jia Shu, Jia Shu finally finished reading the application form.


    He nonchalantly picked up a pen and swiftly signed his name on it! Then casually handed it to Qiu Tu, "Take it."


    Qiu Tu took the application form and looked at the last place for the signature, indeed finding Jia Shu''s signature there.


    Qiu Tu recalled, and the signature seemed the same as the ones he had seen before.


    Continue reading on empire


    ''Maybe I really am overthinking it...?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu saluted, "Thank you, Chief!"


    Jia Shu casually waved his hand, then once again turned on the radio.


    The next second, the melodious music started up again.


    Jia Shu immersed himself in the music once more...


    Qiu Tu walked out of the office, slowly closed the office door, and thus left the slightly peculiar Jia Shu inside.


    Then he stood quietly outside the office door, listening for any sounds from inside. After detecting nothing out of the ordinary, he took the application form and headed to the Organizational Department.


    Such an unconventional promotion required not only the direct superior''s application and the department head''s approval but, most importantly, also needed the Organizational Department''s ratification.


    Many promotions get blocked because they don''t get through the Organizational Department.


    However... whether it was because Qiu Tu currently had a lot of face in the Investigation Bureau or the Political Department''s promotions were rarely obstructed by the Organizational Department, in any case... the entire approval process went through smoothly.


    Even... the assistant staff position for Cao Dabiao, which Qiu Tu didn''t expect to pass, got through, although without an immediate assignment to a division...


    This smoothness surprised even Qiu Tu. He even wondered for a while if he had accidentally smeared himself with "Mandragora Love Drug"...


    Nevertheless, all his confidants had successfully been promoted, especially with the addition of an assistant staff position and two First Level Detectives capable of leading teams on their own, Qiu Tu''s influence suddenly expanded several-fold...


    As long as these people were dispersed throughout the various departments, Qiu Tu would instantly be able to control more departments and manpower...


    .....


    [Jia Shu''s assassination attempt (6 hours)]


    [The gaze of the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    .....


    6 o''clock in the evening.


    In late autumn, it gets dark early. So even though it was only 6 o''clock, the sky was already dim, almost completely dark.


    Qiu Tu stood by the window of his independent office in the Action Division, holding a cup of coffee and, with one hand in his pocket, watched the view outside.


    Looking down from the ninth floor, people on the street looked like ants, each hurrying to their destinations.


    After taking a sip of coffee, the sound of footsteps, "tap tap," reached Qiu Tu''s ears.


    Without turning around, Qiu Tu recognized from the familiar footsteps that the person approaching was Liu Fuping.


    So, as he watched the dense clouds outside the window, he inquired, "Is everything ready at Sister Tang''s place...?"


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping walked next to Qiu Tu, stood shoulder to shoulder with him, and then replied softly, "Yes, Director Tang just called me, saying everything is all set."


    Qiu Tu took another sip of coffee, his face expressionless, and then asked, "What about Commissioner Jiang?"


    Liu Fuping nodded, "Secretary Tao mentioned that she is looking forward to it."


    Qiu Tu smiled but made no further comment and instead asked, "Someone from the Security Department has arrived as well, right?"


    --------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. As usual, the third chapter will update around 20:00. My Monthly Ticket is about to drop out of the top 10, I need Monthly Tickets! Please support!

 Chapter 169 Endless Trump Cards (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please!)

    Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting was unaware that Qiu Tu had already captured a masked man in a suit.Therefore, when a man in a suit suddenly appeared, he didn''t feel any surprise at all!


    However, he saw that the masked man in a suit did not flee but had the audacity to strike at him first!


    A trace of annoyance appeared on his face instantly, so his eyes became as sharp as an eagle''s, and without dodging or evading, he counterattacked with a palm strike!


    With a "Boom!" a loud noise erupted!


    As both individuals clashed palms, the air itself seemed to be violently shaking!


    The next second, to the shock of the onlookers, both sides seemed to be evenly matched, each taking a step back!


    The man in a suit was wearing a mask, making it impossible for the various forces to recognize his true identity.


    But Lin Ting''s identity was known to everyone.


    A minister from the Special Service Department and one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, a standard Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened!


    To face a man in a suit and only manage to fight to a draw?


    One must know that there were only a few Second-Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City! Each one of them was a significant figure!


    And the number that might have a connection to Qiu Tu was even fewer¡­.


    So, at that moment, in the minds of all the scouts and spies, a bold idea emerged: This man in a suit... could he possibly be Jia Shu?


    Had he gone insane?


    Was he truly disregarding his status and coming to assassinate his subordinate?


    What on earth was he doing?


    Thus, in no time, various messages about this assassination attempt started being relayed quickly to those behind-the-scenes power players¡­.


    ¡­.


    At the Garden Villa in the City Center Garden, in an opulently decorated ordinary lounge.


    Yan Chen was sitting on a plush genuine leather sofa, quietly reading a book under the lamplight.


    His daughter Yanyan sat at the table next to him, holding a vase and arranging a bouquet of flowers.


    Just when everything was incredibly peaceful and comfortable.


    Suddenly, hurried footsteps disrupted the quiet of the lounge.


    "Bureau Chief¡­"


    Ji Chen arrived at the door, knocked gently, and then called out.


    Yan Chen, after hearing the call, took his time to finish the last few sentences on the page before getting up.


    He picked up a gilded bookmark from the coffee table, placed it inside the book, set the book on the table, and then slowly stood up, hands clasped behind him, to walk outside.


    Yanyan, seeing this, looked up at Yan Chen with bewilderment.


    But Yan Chen pressed his hand down toward her and said in a deep voice, "Play by yourself for now, I will come back to join you in a bit."


    Having said that, he left the lounge with dignity, taking Ji Chen to the lounge across the way.


    Once there, Yan Chen sat down and then asked in a low voice, "Speak."


    Ji Chen uttered a sound of affirmation and then leaned closer to Yan Chen, speaking softly, "Just now, a message came through, saying Qiu Tu''s action tonight seems to have attracted the attention of many forces."


    "Our people alone have discovered at least two groups of unidentified persons in our vicinity."


    Having said that, Ji Chen paused, "And Qiu Tu, in order to lure out the legendary enemy, drove to the secluded villas around Longshan Road after leaving the Investigation Bureau."


    "And indeed, someone took the bait and made a move on him."


    "According to reports from downstairs, the mysterious person at a distance of 200 meters took aim with a rifle and fired a shot at Qiu Tu. Qiu Tu was shot and fell to the ground on the spot."


    "Minister Lin Ting was provoked by the audacity of the mysterious person and charged forward to engage in combat with him."


    "As a result, this mysterious individual truly exhibited exceptional skills, going back and forth with Minister Lin Ting. It looked like he indeed was a Second-Order Cataclysmic..." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s murky eyes revealed no joy or anger. He did not speak nor react, just quietly contemplating¡­.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen tentatively asked, "Bureau Chief... could that mysterious person really be Minister Jia?"


    "Do we need to dispatch more men?"


    Yan Chen neither confirmed nor denied it but said in a hoarse voice, "If this assassination is arranged by Jia Shu, there must be more to it than meets the eye¡­"


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Besides, although Qiu Tu was shot, it''s unlikely that something would easily go wrong with him."


    "He''s as slippery as an eel. Having received advance notice, he undoubtedly has numerous aces up his sleeve."


    "As for sending more men¡­," Yan Chen''s eyelids drooped, showing a touch of fatigue, "no need to send any for now."


    "Let them cause a stir. The more chaos they create, the more devils and demons will emerge, making some things clearer¡­"


    ¡­.


    Meanwhile, as Yan Chen was making such an assessment.


    At the doorstep of Section Chief Kong''s small villa, the residence of Madame Kong.


    Qiu Tu, who had just been shot and fallen to the ground, slowly got up.


    As he sat up, a "clang" was heard, and a bullet fell from his left chest to the ground.


    Upon closer inspection, his clothes did have blood on them, but there was only a small stain.


    His skin, including the exposed eyes and ears, seemed to be covered with a thin, semi-transparent layer of white paper.


    Clearly, this was the life-preserving charm he had obtained from Tang Feifei a few days ago: the Trigger Paper Figure! (Chapter 133)


    The effect of the Trigger Paper Figure was such that when the bearer was attacked, it would automatically be triggered, forming a protective layer over the body.


    This protective layer could withstand attacks from large caliber firearms and last for more than 30 seconds.


    The 30 seconds quickly passed, and the white paper layer covering Qiu Tu''s body slowly dissipated.

 Chapter 169 Endless Trump Cards (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please!)_2

    ```"Phew!" Qiu Tu exhaled heavily, then rubbed his aching left chest, cursing inwardly,


    ''No wonder it''s called Trigger Paper Figure! It turns out it only triggers the moment the skin is pierced!''


    ''Damn it, it hurts like hell!''


    Even though the Trigger Paper Figure successfully blocked the attack, bullets don''t just penetrate, they also have impact force!


    Even though his heart wasn''t pierced by the bullet, the blow to the chest made Qiu Tu feel like his blood was churning, and he felt extremely uncomfortable.


    It was only because he was a Cataclysmic that his spirit had been enhanced; if it had been an ordinary person who took such a hit, they would probably have passed out from the pain by now.


    While complaining to himself like this, Qiu Tu also looked towards the source of the fighting noise.


    Seeing Lin Ting and a Masked Man in Suit fighting each other not far away, Qiu Tu wasn''t too surprised, but he couldn''t help but sigh slightly in his heart.


    ''As expected... the worst possibility still happened.''


    In fact, as soon as he saw through Wang Xi''s memory that the Suit Man had been wearing a mask all along but hadn''t when he went to the bar or met with him, Qiu Tu had guessed that there might be not just one Suit Man, but many.


    Therefore, the Suit Man he had arrested might also not be the same one he had seen in Wang Xi''s memory.


    Even... the Suit Man in front of Qiu Tu was also very likely not the one from the memory...


    And that led to the second worst possibility that Qiu Tu had guessed.


    That was: Jia Shu might not be alone in attacking him tonight, he could have accomplices, and not just one.


    ''So... I must find a way to draw him out!''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu glanced at the still calmly ticking Crisis Countdown in the top left corner.


    [Jia Shu''s Attack (3.5 hours)]


    ''So... tonight is just getting started....''


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took another look at the battle scene in the distance, then got up, swept the glass shards from the car window onto the ground, and got into the car.


    Once in the car, Qiu Tu glanced at the property manager and the locksmith.


    The two of them had been frightened since the gunshots sounded, hugging their heads and crouching on the ground.


    Qiu Tu pressed the horn and said with a cold look, "Aren''t you getting in the car; what are you waiting for?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the property manager and the locksmith exchanged frightened glances, hesitation in both of their eyes.


    They were reluctant to get in the car, but when they heard the intermittent gunfire from the nearby battlefield and saw Qiu Tu''s intimidating black Investigation Bureau uniform, they eventually climbed into the car with trembling legs.


    Seeing the two get into the car, Qiu Tu checked the second villa address Bai Ru had given him and stepped on the gas, heading for the second villa.


    This move of Qiu Tu''s left all the onlookers somewhat stupefied.


    What''s happening?


    Wasn''t Jia Shu supposed to attack Qiu Tu tonight?


    How come after "Jia Shu" attacked Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu just left without a care in the world?


    So, should everyone continue following Qiu Tu or watch "Jia Shu"?


    Those forces that had dispatched a whole team were alright; they simply split their forces. One continued to observe the battle between Lin Ting and "Jia Shu" at the original site, while the other followed Qiu Tu to see what tricks he was playing...


    And those forces that were short on manpower were in trouble, having to urgently call for reinforcements.


    Just like that, Qiu Tu, followed by nearly half of the watchers, quickly arrived at the second victim''s villa.


    The owner of this villa was Director Zhuang from the Environment and Sanitation Department.


    The procedure was the same as the last villa.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car, let the property manager and the locksmith open the door, while he himself first strolled around the villa. After that, he went in to inspect it.


    Similar to the first villa, this one also showed no signs of recent use. However, there were quite a few stains on the floor of the bedroom and bathroom.


    ```


    It looked like something left behind by the Masked Man in Suit and Wang Xi when they held Director Zhuang''s wife hostage.


    After confirming this villa was not the one where they were hiding people, Qiu Tu left the villa with his hands in his pockets.


    However, learning from the recent attack, he didn''t get straight into the car but warily had the property manager do it instead.


    The property manager was reluctant, but under the pressure Qiu Tu applied, he had no choice but to obey.


    Qiu Tu''s tactic proved effective.


    As soon as the property manager drove the car out, a dark figure slowly emerged from the shadows not far away.


    His hair was stained blood red, his face was covered with a grinning mask, and he was dressed in a sharp suit, appearing somewhat gaunt.


    It was the third Masked Man in Suit!


    "Qiu Tu...?"


    His voice was a bit high-pitched and his tone somewhat gentle, sounding like a woman...


    But Qiu Tu didn''t pay it any mind; he just smiled at the Masked Man in Suit and then...


    suddenly shouted behind him, "Help! Help! Is there any colleague from the Security Department to save me?"


    This move from Qiu Tu almost made all the Scouts monitoring the situation trip over themselves!


    Is this a damn assassination? Are you calling for backup so casually?


    And... you''re a Section Chief from the Investigation Bureau, can you really call for backup from the Security Department?


    And while they were thinking this.


    A team of specialists from the Security Department emerged from the nearby woods, led by none other than Lin Zuo.


    With a face full of annoyance, he cursed at Qiu Tu, "I knew we were going to have to intervene."


    With that, he waved his hand, ordering the specialists to spread out and prepare for the assault!


    Seeing the Security Department taking over the battlefield, Qiu Tu hopped into the passenger seat of his car and waved at Lin Zuo, "Then I''ll leave the rest to Section Chief Lin!"


    After saying that, he gestured to the property manager to drive away from the second villa.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s shameless behavior, Lin Zuo''s frustration intensified.


    But since his boss Qin Shuman had arranged this rescue mission, he had no choice but to follow orders, so he channeled all his anger towards the man in the suit!


    So, when the sedan was far away, Qiu Tu turned to look back and saw the team of Security Department specialists, some engaging in close combat, others shooting from a distance, already clashing with the man in the suit.


    And seeing that the man in the suit was making calculated advances and retreats, and that bullets only broke a layer of skin and drew a bit of blood...


    Qiu Tu had no more doubts about the identity of this Masked Man in Suit.


    ''Really.... another Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened?''


    Qiu Tu was finally beginning to understand why the Sanctuary was so sensitive towards the Evil Gods.


    Just a mere Larilo was capable of cultivating or... breeding so many Second Order Cataclysmics.


    How much more terrifying must the other, more powerful Evil Gods be?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also recalculated his assets for the night.


    After crunching the numbers, his expression was far from optimistic...


    ''I hope to force the real Jia Shu out before I have to play my last card.''


    With that thought, under the property manager''s driving, Qiu Tu''s somewhat battered sedan sped towards the third villa!


    -------


    30,000 characters haha. Chapter 3 should update around 20:00. Seeking Monthly Tickets, seeking subscriptions! sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 170 Jia Shu, Youre Arrested (11,000 words, subscribe!)

    Meanwhile, news of Qiu Tu''s second assassination attempt also began to spread rapidly among the scouts of various factions, who were paying attention to the forces orchestrating the attack tonight.Upon learning that another Masked Man in Suit had appeared, and still exhibiting the strength of a Second-Order Cataclysmic, all forces sensed something eerie about the matter.


    Second-Order Cataclysmics were no common occurrence, so how could so many suddenly emerge? And why were they all dressed alike?


    ''Is it some kind of Cataclysmic ability? Cataclysmic treasures? Or a special gift bestowed by an Evil God?''


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. Ninth floor, office of the Director of the Administrative Office.


    Secretary Bai stood by the window, holding a cup of hot tea, warming his hands while staring at the dark sky outside, pondering...


    ''Was the person who attacked Qiu Tu tonight really Jia Shu?''


    ''What exactly does he want to do, giving up such a high status and position...?''


    As Yan Chen''s chief secretary, all information from the scouts was first collated by him before he would filter it and notify Ji Chen and Yan Chen.


    Therefore, he was almost fully focused on the assassination tonight.


    It was only because his own strength was insufficient that he didn''t go down to help Qiu Tu through this calamity¡­


    ...


    The property manager clearly had no experience with cars and didn''t know how to drive.


    In the sparsely populated villa area with few vehicles and pedestrians, driving wasn''t too difficult¡ªprovided one was willing to endure some bumps and scrapes.


    So, the increasingly battered car, after hitting who knows how many trees and walls, finally came to a wobbly stop in front of the third villa!


    This time, Qiu Tu hadn''t even had the chance to inspect the villa.


    He had just gotten out of the car when a rather burly Masked Man in Suit appeared at close range and "bang, bang, bang" fired three shots at Qiu Tu!


    Luckily, Qiu Tu had just taken the ''Iron Will Potion'' while in the car, which brought his attention and reactivity to their limits.


    So upon sensing something wrong, he did a donkey roll and scrambled to take cover behind the car.


    Seeing that he hadn''t achieved his goal, the burly Masked Man in Suit clearly didn''t plan to give up. He kept advancing on Qiu Tu while continuing to shoot relentlessly!


    Qiu Tu, while returning fire, shouted, "Secretary Tao! I think you''ve enjoyed the show enough for tonight! Lend me a hand!"


    Far away.


    Commissioner Jiang''s voluptuous chief secretary, Tao Yaoyao¡ªdressed in a black silk miniskirt business suit and high heels, her legs long and refined¡ªstood on the rooftop of a villa.


    She held binoculars, watching the location where Qiu Tu was being attacked, while listening to reports from subordinates through the Communicator.


    After hearing about Qiu Tu''s shameless cry for help from her subordinate, Tao Yaoyao fell silent for two seconds before finally issuing an order. "Go save him."


    "But... just hold the attackers off. Be careful of your safety."


    A man''s voice came through the earpiece, "Yes!"


    Following Tao Yaoyao''s command, a squad of soldiers armed with rifles and dressed in camouflage burst out of the concealing foliage and began firing intensively at the Suit Man who had attacked Qiu Tu!


    It was evident that this Suit Man was also a Second-Order Cataclysmic; Qiu Tu''s handgun had done little to harm him. But with the onslaught of rifles, the Suit Man didn''t dare to be reckless and quickly dodged for cover!


    Seizing the opportunity, Qiu Tu once again fled in the car.


    This time, Qiu Tu even left behind the property manager and the locksmith¡ªsince the Suit Man had already made it clear that he wouldn''t allow villa inspections, there was no need to bring the two along.


    With the secret forces from the City Hall now suppressing the area, it was certainly much safer than the journey ahead for Qiu Tu.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced at the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision.


    Unconsciously, during his continued escape, an hour and a half had already passed.


    Now, only two hours remained until Jia Shu''s deadline for the attack.


    And Qiu Tu had only two cards left in his hand...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu, sticking to the plan, drove to the fourth villa.


    This time, the fifth Suit Man didn''t even bother to hide for an ambush but stood at the villa''s entrance, masked, silently waiting for Qiu Tu''s arrival.


    When he saw Qiu Tu stop the car, he smiled politely and asked in a gentle voice, "You''ve called upon people from the Investigation Bureau, the military, and the City Hall, the three major powers."


    "Who do you plan to call for help this time?"


    The events of the night were almost laid bare at this point.


    The Suit Man had guessed what Qiu Tu was planning, the entirety of Qiu Tu''s agenda.


    And Qiu Tu had guessed the true identity and Cataclysmic ability of the Suit Man.


    What remained was to see who held more cards...


    So Qiu Tu said with a smile, "You know, I really do have one last rescuer left."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu put his hand to his mouth and whistled sharply, then shouted loudly, "Bureau Chief, save me!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Suit Man''s body tensed sharply, his eyes narrowing slightly, evidently thinking Yan Chen had arrived.


    But as Tang Feifei slowly emerged from the darkness, the Suit Man felt... it might have been better to face Yan Chen instead.


    This fierce female leopard''s combat strength was among the best in all of Xinjie City...


    "Sister Tang, I''m leaving the rest to you. Thanks!" Discover hidden tales at empire


    After saying this, Qiu Tu slammed the steering wheel and floored the gas pedal, racing off into the darkness of the villa district.


    The reason Tang Feifei was the last one he wanted to reveal was because she was Qiu Tu''s most important hidden card¡ªafter all, she was his most crucial secret ally.


    If it weren''t for being driven into a corner, maybe he would never have played this trump card.


    Of course, Qiu Tu was not the sentimental type, now that life and death were at stake, a trump card needed to be played when necessary!


    Besides, having played all his cards, the opponent probably had nothing left up their sleeve either!


    Thinking this way, as he continued to drive, Qiu Tu also made a quick tally of the opponent''s remaining cards.


    The Suit Man was the boss, Wang Xi was Old Qi. Assuming the other five people remaining were all doppelgangers, then... they had all shown their hands now.


    So... if they still wanted to kill him tonight, there was only one possibility left...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look towards the dark road ahead...


    ''So... Director, it''s time for you to make a choice. To back down, or to... advance.''


    Meanwhile.


    Within the shadow of the car driven by Qiu Tu, a pair of crimson eyes slowly opened.


    There was no hesitation in those eyes, no wandering, only madness, only an overflowing desire...


    ...


    At the same time.


    A black sedan slowly drove into Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in Xinjie City, smoothly arriving at the villa''s entrance.


    Once the car stopped, the Director of the Political Department, Jia Shu, got out.


    Ji Chen, who had already been waiting at the villa''s entrance, hurriedly stepped forward to meet him.


    He bowed slightly and said, "Director, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you in the study."


    Hearing his words, Jia Shu straightened his clothes, a smile that wasn''t quite a smile appearing on his face, "Good. I also wanted to have a chat with the Bureau Chief."


    He nonchalantly swept a glance at the villa entrance, his gaze lingering for a moment on one of the maids with attractive features, before following Ji Chen toward the study...


    .....


    The five villas, although all located on the outskirts of the Longshan Road villa complex, were worlds apart in distance.


    Therefore, this time, Qiu Tu drove for a good fifteen minutes before arriving at the fifth villa.


    When he reached the entrance of the fifth villa, Qiu Tu stopped the car, turned off the ignition, and got out.


    Leaning against a beaten-up sedan that was nearly beyond repair, Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer. There was only 1 hour and 20 minutes left until this crisis would be over.


    Qiu Tu was not in a hurry; he just lit a cigarette, quietly smoked it, and patiently waited...


    Time slowly passed, one minute, two minutes, three minutes.....


    After finishing the cigarette, Qiu Tu threw the butt to the ground, stamped it out, then turned around to get back in the car and continue waiting.


    However, just as he opened the car door and was about to step in!


    Suddenly, the shadows on the ground twisted crazily as if they had come to life.


    The next second, a black figure silently surged up from the shadows on the ground!


    One slash!


    Just one slash!


    Qiu Tu''s head was completely severed from his body!


    Qiu Tu''s eyes clearly still held shock and disbelief, as if he couldn''t understand what had happened!


    The next second, with two dull thuds, his head and body toppled to the muddy road....


    Seeing this scene, the shadow revealed a smirk, then stepped through the shadows, drawing closer to Qiu Tu, with his silhouette slowly rising, as if he was coming out of the darkness.


    But just as he reached Qiu Tu''s head, Qiu Tu''s still-bleeding head suddenly cracked a sinister smile, "Director. You lost this game."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the shadow with crimson eyes suddenly widened, jerking his head down and then saw that Qiu Tu, who was supposed to be beheaded, mysteriously vanished into thin air with a flicker!


    The next second, several middle-aged men in white uniforms slowly walked out from the villa.


    They looked at Jia Shu with disappointment and said solemnly, "Jia Shu, you are under arrest."


    With a wave of the leading man''s hand, a white cage fell from the sky and encased the attempting-to-escape Jia Shu!


    Even the normally stoic Jia Shu couldn''t quite control his expression at that moment! Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he was being restrained and falling to the ground, he shouted incredulously, "The Disciplinary Department! Why are you here!"


    "Why are you here!"


    "Impossible, this can''t be possible!"


    The next second, possibly having guessed Qiu Tu''s entire plan and all his cards, Jia Shu''s figure jolted and his expression froze.


    Shortly after, he began to laugh maniacally, "Hahaha, hehehe. So that''s how it is, that''s how it is..."


    -------


    Chapter three, ten thousand words, ha. The third chapter should be updated around 20:00. Asking for Monthly Tickets and subscriptions!

 Chapter 171 Revealing the Plan After Arresting Jia Shu (11,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing Jia Shu''s somewhat manic and inexplicable words, the three white-clad men from the Disciplinary Department didn''t say anything; they just looked at him with a cold indifference.Meanwhile, "tap tap tap..." a series of footsteps approached from a distance.


    Shortly after, Tang Feifei, dressed neatly and looking relaxed, emerged from the darkness.


    In her hand, she was dragging a Masked Man in Suit, lifeless as a dead dog.


    Compared to her nonchalant demeanor, the Suit Man''s condition was clearly much worse¡ªnot only were his clothes in tatters, his body was covered with bruises, not a single spot on his skin was intact, and his head was so swollen it resembled a pig''s head; he had long since passed out.


    When they reached the villa''s entrance, Tang Feifei tossed the Masked Man in Suit next to Jia Shu as if throwing away trash.


    With a muffled "thud," the Masked Man in Suit landed beside Jia Shu like a piece of ragged cloth. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    During the collision, his mask fell off, revealing a delicate face that somewhat resembled Jia Shu''s, yet it was not quite the same.


    At this sight, Jia Shu, tied up on the ground, showed little surprise.


    Having already figured out all of Qiu Tu''s arrangements, he could still afford to smile amidst the situation. His bloodshot eyes were fixed on Tang Feifei, filled with coldness and madness.


    "Director Tang, I didn''t expect you and Qiu Tu to have joined forces so early,"


    "No wonder, at the last high-level meeting, your behavior was so out of character. Everyone thought you were suppressing Qiu Tu, but in fact... you were deliberately laying the groundwork for Qiu Tu''s promotion, right?"


    "If I''m not mistaken, the people from the Disciplinary Department were also invited by the two of you, right?"


    The Disciplinary Department, directly subordinate to the Supreme Sanctuary Council, is a special agency tasked with overseeing crime among the upper echelons within the Planning Area. Although not the highest in rank, their power is immense, and their strength formidable.


    Previously, Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu had been discussing using the excuse of Jia Shu''s dereliction of duty and silencing key suspects to apply to the Sanctuary for an investigation, hoping to involve this department.


    Hearing Jia Shu''s interrogation, Tang Feifei gave him a cold glance, having no interest in speaking with a loser.


    She only looked at the three white-clad men from the Disciplinary Department and then said, "I trust you have recorded the entire process tonight."


    "I''ll leave Jia Shu to you. I am going to continue cleaning up the mess now."


    She pointed at the gunshots coming from the darkness not far away and said, "Those guys are a bit troublesome; the others probably can''t handle them."


    The leading white-clad man "hmm-ed" in affirmation, signaling, "Director Tang, please proceed. No one can escape from our grasp."


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei no longer lingered and with a sudden surge, she burst into the darkness, swooping toward the source of the distant gunfire!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Investigation Bureau building, ninth floor, Tang Feifei''s office lounge.


    Qiu Tu, dressed in a bathrobe and washed clean, was squatting on the ground, gazing somberly at the "head" that had rolled to his feet.


    The head looked exactly like Qiu Tu, indistinguishable in any way, as if it were truly Qiu Tu''s own head: even... the severed neck was still spurting blood with a "zzz" sound.


    Picking up the "head" that was his own, Qiu Tu placed it next to the headless body, then proceeded with the plan by using his Cataclysmic ability, "Order Space."


    "As long as my spiritual power doesn''t run out, ''Uncompromising Simulacrum'' has self-healing abilities and will repair at the fastest rate!"


    As Qiu Tu set the rules for his ability, a bunch of disgusting flesh sprouts immediately grew on the severed neck in front of him, then reconnected with the headless body....


    While the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was repairing, Qiu Tu also squatted down, quietly recounting his entire plan for the night....


    Actually, as soon as Qiu Tu heard the terms "boss" and "Old Qi" in Wang Xi''s memories, but did not see anyone else, he had already guessed that Suit Man or Jia Shu likely had the ability to create duplicates or split themselves.


    Therefore, he knew that even if he were attacked by Jia Shu tonight, Jia Shu would probably be fully prepared, with a solid alibi in place.


    His only concern was: would Jia Shu''s "True Body" be the one providing the alibi, while remotely controlling other "duplicates" or people to attack him?


    Stay connected via empire


    So, Qiu Tu purposefully wrote a promotion application today and met with Jia Shu to confirm the authenticity of Jia Shu himself.


    The results greatly relieved Qiu Tu: the "Jia Shu" in the office, although he looked, spoke, and wrote exactly like Jia Shu, some details still made Qiu Tu feel something was off.


    This meant that in tonight''s attack, Jia Shu probably wasn''t sitting back safely fishing at the bureau and commanding from a distance; instead, to ensure no mistakes, he personally entered the fray.


    This outcome allowed Qiu Tu to be completely at ease.


    Now there were only two issues left.


    1. How many duplicates did Jia Shu, the Suit Man, have? How could they exhaust all of Jia Shu, the Suit Man''s duplicates, and draw out Jia Shu himself to fall into the trap?


    2. How could Qiu Tu protect his own life when Jia Shu''s cards were all on the table?


    The answer to the former was already evident. To exhaust those duplicates one after another, Qiu Tu truly utilized all the connections and arrangements he had accumulated over time, leaving nothing to spare.


    Yan Chen''s arrangement of Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, the action team from the Security Department''s Investigation Department, Commissioner Jiang''s secret forces, Tang Feifei, and the Supervisors that Tang Feifei invited from the Sanctuary....

 Chapter 171 Revealing the Plan After Arresting Jia Shu (11,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    All forces that were monitoring tonight''s operation were almost entirely dragged down by Qiu Tu!And they did not "disappoint" Qiu Tu''s expectations, as they indeed succeeded in holding back Jia Shu and Suit Man''s four avatars!


    This forced Jia Shu to take action himself, thus ultimately falling into Qiu Tu''s trap!


    As for the latter....


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" that had already been repaired.


    Then he reached out his hand and beckoned.


    The next second, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" "wah wah wah" vomited a lot of blood and then rapidly shrank in size.


    In no time, the 1.8-meter-tall "Qiu Tu" had turned into a thumb-sized, stiff-bodied, faceless, featureless little figure.


    This was one of the two Cataclysmic treasures Qiu Tu had won in the "Salvage Game" two days ago.


    Its function was that as long as it absorbed enough blood, it could become a second body for the user.


    The user''s spirit and soul could enter this body and control the simulacrum as if it was another body, with the simulacrum able to execute the user''s every command with "uncompromising" precision.


    A somewhat ordinary, clone-type Cataclysmic treasure. Moreover, it came with a significant cost¡ªnot only did it need to be fed blood every two days, but it also required an extravagant amount of blood.


    Even for a Cataclysmic like Qiu Tu, activating this simulacrum had nearly drained him dry; otherwise, his complexion wouldn''t still be so pale¡­


    However, it was precisely because of this Cataclysmic treasure that Qiu Tu was able to successfully perform such a grand act tonight¡ª


    After saying goodbye to Liu Fuping, he went to the bathroom.


    In the restroom, Qiu Tu cut his arm with a small knife and activated the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" with a large amount of blood.


    Then in the restroom, he took off his uniform and handed it over to the "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    The simulacrum replaced him in leaving the restroom and began the evening''s performance.


    Meanwhile, he himself put on the spare clothes he had prepared earlier, and while no one was looking, he slipped away quietly to hide in Tang Feifei''s resting room for remote operation.


    To make the play convincing enough to successfully lure out Jia Shu, and to prevent any leaks, Qiu Tu told no one about this plan except for Tang Feifei.


    Moreover, he played his role to the hilt, leaving the expensive "Trigger Paper Figure" Tang Feifei had given him on the "Uncompromising Simulacrum"! He countered Jia Shu''s first attack and successfully deceived everyone!


    Late, before the second attack, Qiu Tu drank an "Iron Will Potion," which made his spirit more tenacious, his focus sharper, and his reactivity quicker, thus avoiding the second Suit Man''s attack! Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After that came Tang Feifei''s proactive entrance, protecting the third attack that Qiu Tu faced!


    By then, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" had still not been exposed. And in the end, it lured out Jia Shu''s true body, who came to personally assassinate Qiu Tu!


    At that moment, because of the fading effect of the "Iron Will Potion" and Jia Shu''s overwhelming strength, Qiu Tu was no longer able to keep up with the reaction time, and the simulacrum could only be decapitated with a single slash!


    However, by then, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" had thoroughly fulfilled its mission!


    After revealing himself, Jia Shu completely fell into Qiu Tu''s trap and was captured by the Disciplinary Department. His painstakingly constructed alibi also became ineffective....


    The whole plan was tightly linked, and Qiu Tu had to lay out all his cards and rely on the tugging of various forces, accumulated Cataclysmic treasures, and precious information asymmetry, to painstakingly win this round against Jia Shu!


    However, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was the core of this plan, but was not irreplaceable. A "Seal of Ownership" could have been used to achieve a similar effect.


    After all, once Qiu Tu visited the first and second villas, he had essentially shown his hand to Jia Shu that his next move would inevitably be the remaining three villas.


    Therefore, it was highly likely that Jia Shu''s true body would be hiding near the fourth or fifth villa, ready for a final struggle.


    At that time, all Qiu Tu needed to do was to drive to the fifth villa. He wouldn''t need to suffer Jia Shu''s assassination and could directly use the "Seal of Ownership" to be summoned away by Qin Shuman.


    Leaving the lured Jia Shu alone to face the Supervisors. Your next chapter is on empire


    However, in doing so, since Jia Shu hadn''t attacked Qiu Tu, it couldn''t be considered catching the thief red-handed. There would still be some room for argument¡ªfor example, he could claim that he had been following Qiu Tu all along to protect him.


    So, in the end, for safety and a fail-safe plan, Qiu Tu still chose to use the costly "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    And with the "Seal of Ownership" saved by this, he used it on the "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    So, when the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was killed by Jia Shu in one strike, Qiu Tu immediately used the "Seal of Ownership" to retrieve it.


    And with the "Order Space" he had intentionally saved for today, he had it repaired at once.


    After all, although this Cataclysmic treasure came at a high price, it could still play a very crucial role at certain key moments!


    Qiu Tu went over the string of plans he had set for himself tonight once more and took a deep breath. He felt incredibly tired...


    This fatigue was not merely physical but also mental.


    Having been mentally strained all night, now that he suddenly relaxed, he was overwhelmed with exhaustion....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu dismissed the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" and then deactivated his Cataclysmic ability.


    As the Cataclysmic ability was lifted, waves of pain that felt as if his brain was being drained hit him once again.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t flustered in the slightest and took out the "Nightmare Crystal Vial" he had prepared earlier, opened it, and drank it all.


    As the liquid that restored spiritual power slid down his throat, Qiu Tu quickly replenished his energy, and the tightness of his spirit throughout the night eased a bit.....


    Sitting quietly on the ground for a while, Qiu Tu slowly got up.


    Wearing slippers, he walked to the window of Tang Feifei''s resting room and looked out at Xinjie City''s still darkened sky, his gaze profound.


    Although he had successfully lured Jia Shu into a trap with a series of tightly interlocked strategies,


    and with the Diciplinary Department personally taking action to arrest him, Jia Shu had almost no chance of turning the tables.


    But.... one should know that the key to tonight''s event was not only Jia Shu.


    There was also... that Heretic Goddess Girl lurking behind all the conspiracies.


    What exactly was Jia Shu''s relationship with that Heretic Goddess Girl?


    What was his relationship with those Suit Men?


    Why was he so interested in me?


    The death of the original host, my transmigration, did they have any relation to Jia Shu, and that Heretic Goddess Girl?


    Too many mysteries were waiting for Qiu Tu to unravel.


    Moreover, as one of the nine senior officials of the Investigation Bureau, the highest head of the Political Department, what kind of massive impact would Jia Shu''s arrest have on the Investigation Bureau, the military, the City Hall, and the entire Xinjie City?


    Qiu Tu felt as if he had just cast a huge stone into a placid lake!


    Billows had formed and were about to spread, continuing to evolve.


    Would they turn into fiercer waves?


    Or dissipate gradually, wave by wave, until calm returned.....


    Thinking in this way and after appreciating the dark night view for a while, Qiu Tu slowly withdrew his gaze.


    Then.... he picked up the dossier of Jia Shu beside him, looked at the "brother" under the relatives section, and fell into deep contemplation....


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the City Center Garden Villa.


    "Jia Shu," led by Ji Chen, also arrived at Yan Chen''s study.


    As usual, Yan Chen''s entire being was hidden in the darkness, not letting anyone discern his expression...


    After Ji Chen left and closed the door of the study, Yan Chen finally spoke slowly,


    "You''ve made too much noise with tonight''s affair, Jia Shu...."


    He paused, his gaze neither joyous nor sad, fell on "Jia Shu," and then he corrected himself, "Or should I say... Jia Wei."


    ------


    Took a day off work without leave to rush this manuscript. Three chapters, 11,000 words! Requesting Monthly Tickets! Requesting subscriptions!


    Many details and foreshadowings have been hinted at in this chapter for digging into, those interested may want to take a closer look.


    ----


    PS: Recommending a Dragon Ball fanfiction - "Dragon Ball: I''m Really Not the God of Destruction," for friends who like Dragon Ball, here''s the introduction:


    I''m really not the God of Destruction; I''m just a Kaioshin who can use destruction and is even more powerful than the Angels!


    God-level Saiyan Beersay becomes a deity in three days, countdown begins...

 Chapter 172 Different Reactions from All Sides! (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    The night sky was already pitch-black, with dark clouds crushing down upon the heavens, concealing the moonlight.In Yan Chen''s study, however, not even the ceiling light was turned on; only the small desk lamp remained alight.


    Thus, the whole study resembled a giant dark beast with a gaping bloody maw, ready to choose its prey and devour!


    With Yan Chen suddenly revealing such shocking news, the atmosphere in the study instantly tensed up!


    But amidst this tension, Jia Shu...no, it should be said Jia Wei, suddenly burst into an unrestrained laugh with a loud "haha".


    While laughing, he exaggeratedly clapped his hands, "My brother said you would see through my disguise, and I didn''t believe it at the time."


    "Now it seems I really underestimated you, Director Yan."


    In the face of Jia Wei''s disrespectful and even somewhat contemptuous demeanor, Yan Chen''s aged face showed no expression.


    He first took out a cigarette and placed it in his mouth.


    Next, he reached out with his dry hand and groped for a matchbox on the mahogany desk.


    He opened the matchbox and took out a match.


    "Strike!"


    As the sound of the match scraping echoed, a burst of flame blossomed in the dim study.


    Yan Chen brought the flame close and lit his cigarette, then gently shook the matchstick as he spoke in an even tone, "All these years have passed, and you''re still clinging to your brother."


    "Back then, you caused so much trouble in the Sanctuary."


    "If it weren''t for your brother cleaning up your mess, you would probably have been executed by now."


    "Why don''t you ever learn your lesson?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s emotions clearly became unstable.


    His eyes bloodshot, he stared intently at Yan Chen and roared, "I''ll say it again! I didn''t kill those people!"


    "You just don''t believe me! Don''t believe me!" Enjoy new chapters from empire


    "If it weren''t for your botched handling of cases, maybe I wouldn''t be doing worse than my brother right now!"


    Compared to him, Yan Chen seemed ever more relaxed. He let out a "hehe" and countered, "If not you, who could it be?"


    "At that time, you were the only one at the scene, your fingerprints were on the weapon, and the blood on your body matched the splatter pattern."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s expression grew even more manic, glaring fiercely at Yan Chen as if he would pounce and tear at Yan Chen at any second.


    But...just when he was about to lose control of his emotions, suddenly, his entire demeanor halted. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He was like someone who had been hit with a "restart" button, his mood receding as quickly as the tide.


    He resumed his flippant attitude once more.


    He then looked at Yan Chen with raised eyebrows and said nonchalantly, "Old man, don''t always try to provoke my emotions and trick me. I have come here this time because I have a matter to discuss with you."


    Seeing that Jia Wei hadn''t lost control, a fleeting disappointment flickered through Yan Chen''s eyes before vanishing.


    With drooping eyelids, he quietly smoked as he asked in a calm voice, "What''s the matter?"


    Jia Wei said, "We want to make a deal with you¡ªa mutually beneficial deal."


    Yan Chen, "You all?"


    The smile on Jia Wei''s face was slightly wicked, "Yes, us."


    He continued, "You must have already received the news a few days ago, right?"


    "In order to better rebuild the Planning Area and to allow the three major authorities to integrate more effectively, those old men above are considering establishing a higher-level administrative unit in the Planning Area."


    Yan Chen hummed noncommittally, and a plume of white smoke rose up, obscuring his visage.


    Jia Wei said, "The exact information we got is that Xinjie City, Eastern City, Jingnan City, Xingye City, and 12 other cities will be merged into one state¡ªDongye State!"


    "At that time, Dongye State will establish a State Council, modeled after the Sanctuary."


    "The State Council will be the highest authority in the entire state, second to none."


    "The top officials from your 12 cities and 3 major institutions will automatically become council members, meaning the most powerful people in the state."


    "However...among these members, a Speaker and three Deputy Speakers will emerge."


    At this point, Jia Wei paused in his speech. His eyes, red as blood, brimmed with confidence, "And we...are sure we can at least bolster you into the position of Deputy Speaker!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, an expression finally crossed Yan Chen''s face.


    He looked up, his face filled with emotion, "You can help me become Deputy Speaker?"


    "You all...what makes you so sure you can do this?"


    With a grin, Jia Wei said, "Old man, don''t try to test me. Unless you agree to us, I won''t reveal anything."


    After finishing, he stared intensely at Yan Chen, "I''m just here to ask on behalf of the people behind me, are you willing to make this deal?"


    With Jia Wei''s words, the study fell silent for a moment.


    Yan Chen didn''t speak for a long time. He quietly smoked the last bit of his cigarette, then extinguished the butt in the ashtray.


    Only then did he look up and inquire, "What do you want?"


    Seeing that Yan Chen was tempted, Jia Wei''s smile deepened, "Actually, we don''t want much."


    "I remember, a new Moonlight Lake is forming in the middle region between Xinjie City and Eastern City, where it''s said to produce roughly 1.3 tons of Cataclysmic Material: Tears of Moonlight..."


    At Jia Wei''s words, Yan Chen jerked his head up, a look of surprise on his face.


    Still smiling, Jia Wei said, "We want half of that yield."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen was so exasperated that he laughed, "Do you think I own that Moonlight Lake as my private property?"


    "You think if I say I''ll give it to you, then I can give it to you?"

 Chapter 172 Different Reactions from All Sides! (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)_2

    ```"Even if I agree to give it to you, would Ye Mingfeng agree? Would Jiang Zhenpeng agree? Would Eastern City agree?"


    Yan Chen was referring to the other two of Xinjie City''s Three Giants: General Ye of the military and Commissioner Jiang of City Hall.


    However, upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s expression remained unchanged; he simply looked at Yan Chen with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, his eyes full of confidence¡­


    At first, Yan Chen was still smiling, but it quickly faded.


    He lifted his eyes, his aged gaze emotionless as he looked at Jia Wei, "You can take care of Ye Mingfeng and Jiang Zhenpeng?"


    Jia Wei didn''t answer.


    Yan Chen continued to probe, "So... What about Eastern City?"


    Jia Wei''s smile stretched almost to his ears.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen took a deep breath, his eyelids drooping as he leaned back with a hint of lament in his voice, "Is it really interesting to be a traitor?"


    "Our human fate is already fraught enough. As compatriots, why add insult to injury...?" Explore new worlds at empire


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, the malice in Jia Wei''s eyes overflowed. He glared menacingly at Yan Chen and said, "Human fate fraught? Heh heh heh."


    "Have you ever considered my fate?"


    "If it weren''t for your misjudgment back then! Maybe I, too, would have had a bright future!"


    "It was you who pushed me into this bottomless abyss?!"


    "Now you talk to me of pity? Of fate?! Pah!"


    "You told me that these Evil Gods were the culprits behind the Era of Disaster! But have they ever harmed me?!"


    "On the contrary, it is you, all my present sufferings are caused by you!"


    Yan Chen, upon hearing these words, was long silent.


    And just as the atmosphere in the study was turning somewhat subdued, suddenly, the door of the study was knocked on "bang bang bang."


    Then, the door opened, and Ji Chen stood at the door of the study.


    He glanced at the agitated Jia Wei and then turned to Yan Chen, tentatively asking, "Bureau Chief, there''s important intelligence¡­"


    Yan Chen himself wanted to break the current conversational atmosphere, so he nodded slightly.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen quickly walked over to Yan Chen. He bent down, leaned in close to Yan Chen''s ear, covering his mouth with his hand, and whispered, "Bureau Chief, Secretary Bai just sent a message."


    "Reports from our people below say, tonight on-site, four Mysterious persons attacked Qiu Tu in succession, all very powerful, likely all Second-Order Cataclysmics Awakened."


    "Spectating powers around the scene are being dragged into the battlefield, either actively or passively."


    "Besides Minister Lin Ting, there are combat teams from the Security Department, defense teams from the Municipal Committee, and... Director Tang."


    "Tang Feifei?" Hearing this name, Yan Chen''s gaze fluctuated slightly, pondering something.


    Ji Chen hummed in acknowledgment, then continued, "However, our people down there aren''t clear if Director Tang came at Qiu Tu''s invitation or if she sniffed out something and came on her own."


    "Moreover, it wasn''t just her who came; people from the Disciplinary Department showed up with her."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen''s brow furrowed deeply.


    Then, Ji Chen quietly glanced at the "Jia Shu" in front of him and continued to whisper, "According to the scouts'' report, Minister Jia seems to have been taken away by the Disciplinary Department''s people."


    "But the exact reason isn''t clear. Perhaps he attacked Qiu Tu?"


    "Moreover, Qiu Tu now appears to be missing as well."


    "Judging from the blood traces and signs left on the ground, he is suspected to have been... killed."


    Yan Chen''s gaze grew even more somber upon hearing this.


    He pondered in silence for a moment, then finally said, "Give him a call."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen first looked up at Jia Wei before taking out the communicator to dial Qiu Tu''s number.


    After a moment, the call connected, but what rang out was the urgent "beep beep beep" of the line.


    Ji Chen, somewhat surprised, said, "Qiu Tu seems to be on the phone? Looks like he might be fine?"


    ```


    Yan Chen heard the remark and nodded slightly.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen turned his eyes and deliberately asked, "But, Director Tang, he just had a narrow escape, so who is he on the phone with now?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen lightly furrowed his brows, his expression neither happy nor sad, inscrutable...


    .....


    At this time, Qiu Tu was indeed on the phone. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Or rather... As scouts from various factions gradually found the last battleground and discovered traces of Qiu Tu''s "death," his phone hadn''t stopped ringing.


    The first call was from Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman was clearly frantic over the phone.


    As soon as the call connected, she bombarded him with a series of questions.


    "Where are you?" "Are you okay?" "Are you hurt?" "Are you still safe? Should I come to find you?" and other similar questions.


    Touched by her concern, Qiu Tu teased the female officer a bit.


    After all... the Qin Shuman he knew had always been calm, collected, and confident, not at all flustered like she was now.


    After reassuring Qin Shuman and making small talk for a bit, Qiu Tu also inquired about the progress of the situation after he left and the attitude of the Security Department toward the entire incident.


    According to Qin Shuman, Tang Feifei had arrived just in time, so apart from Commissioner Jiang''s security team leaving no enemies behind, the other three Masked Men in Suits who were held up were successfully apprehended!


    Subsequently, these three Masked Men in Suits were all taken away by Supervisors from the Disciplinary Department.


    With that, the entire assassination attempt came to a conclusive end.


    And Bureau Chief Dai Yukang from the Security Department had been nearly entirely focused on the event throughout the evening.


    Once everything settled, he only remarked with eight words, "A mastermind of strategy, determining the fate of the heavens."


    For the typically critical Dai Yukang, this was indeed the highest praise he could offer.


    Moreover, Qin Shuman mentioned that because of this incident, Dai Yukang was looking to meet with Qiu Tu in the next couple of days.


    Although Dai Yukang did not specify the reason for the meeting, both of them guessed that Dai Yukang must have taken an interest in Qiu Tu and wanted to fully recruit him into the military''s ranks...


    After hanging up with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately received a call from Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary, Tao Yaoyao.


    Perhaps because their relationship wasn''t firmly established, Tao Yaoyao didn''t overtly praise Qiu Tu like Qin Shuman had.


    She only delivered a message from Commissioner Jiang, "Quite satisfied with tonight''s gift..."


    Afterward, she also extended a meeting invitation on behalf of Commissioner Jiang to Qiu Tu.


    Of course, Qiu Tu readily accepted.


    To be honest, he was quite interested in this stunning secretary and the enigmatic Commissioner Jiang and was very keen to get to know them better.


    Moreover... his name had risen in prominence in Xinjie City through recent cases, catching the attention of various factions.


    And with tonight''s events, he was almost certainly going to be exposed to Yan Chen, so it was indeed time to secure a new support or plan a few good exit strategies...


    The subsequent calls were from friends who cared about Qiu Tu and some with information channels.


    There was Secretary Bai, Liu Fuping, and even... Fang Ming, with whom Qiu Tu had cooperated numerous times before.


    This actually elevated Fang Ming''s standing in Qiu Tu''s heart by another level.


    This individual was not only sentimentally loyal but also well-connected.


    The knowledge of Qiu Tu''s assassination attempt, despite its significant impact on Xinjie City''s upper echelons, was likely to be within the knowledge of only the top levels of the three major power institutions that day.


    That Fang Ming got wind of it suggested his status was far from ordinary. It might well be related to his father, who resided on Longshan Road...


    Such a person, with a decent character and not-so-simple identity, was someone everyone would want to befriend.


    Besides the courting and concern of various factions and friends, there were also some unpleasant developments...


    --------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The third chapter will be updated around 20:00.

 Chapter 173 The Evil God Actually Appreciates Me? (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    It was Qiu Tu''s "Crisis Intuition" that had been triggered once again.And it was triggered three times at once....


    "Triggering crisis ''Appreciation of the Evil God,'' generating crisis report!"


    "You have successfully completed the task bestowed by the Evil God Larilo, helping the Evil God eliminate a stumbling block."


    "Because of this, Larilo appreciates you immensely."


    "She is preparing to meet you in your dreams in the coming days to once again tempt you into becoming her follower."


    "Please be aware that her appreciation could turn to rage fueled by rejection, and she may try to kill you by any means necessary!"


    "But if you accept, you will also be tagged as an ''Evil God Cultist,'' becoming a thorn in Sanctuary''s side."


    "So, please make your choice...."


    .......


    "Triggering crisis ''Threat in the Darkness,'' generating crisis report!"


    "Your meteoric rise has caught the attention of many schemers. At times, standing out in the forest is not a good thing. In the shadows, someone might have already set their sights on you...."


    ...


    "Triggering crisis ''Revenge of the Linked Formation,'' generating crisis report!"


    "Your personal slaughter of a small United Front squad is seen by them as a severe provocation."


    "Under someone''s instigation, the United Front has decided to teach you a profound lesson."


    "Therefore, you must protect yourself, your friends, and family."


    "You wouldn''t want to know what a group of frenzied thugs might do to you...."


    To be honest, when Qiu Tu saw that series of prompts and one countdown timer after another popping up, he was seriously puzzled!


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Had he stirred up the hornet''s nest of "Crisis Intuition"?


    Or had capturing Jia Shu triggered some sort of chain reaction?


    Why did three crisis countdowns suddenly come up all at once?


    And on top of that, what was this about "Appreciation of the Evil God" and "Revenge of the Linked Formation"?!?


    Did he really need Larilo''s appreciation?


    Did he think he couldn''t see through Larilo''s tactics? It was just the "Drive the wolf to devour the tiger" strategy he had wanted to use from the beginning.


    However, he had always thought Jia Shu was too dangerous, even more so than Larilo, so he took the opportunity provided by Larilo to collaborate with her and conveniently trapped Jia Shu in the process.


    And now... why had he been "appreciated"?


    Right now, in Qiu Tu''s heart, ten thousand alpacas were running wild!


    He slowly lay down on the soft, large bed in Tang Feifei''s bedroom, feeling utterly despondent: Forget it, let it all end, he was so tired....


    "Appreciation of the Evil God (72 hours)"


    "Revenge of the Linked Formation (10 days)"


    "Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)"


    ----


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu finished his call and lay in bed, feeling life was devoid of meaning.


    In a villa in the city, Yan Chen''s study.


    After a quick phone verification to check on Qiu Tu''s safety, Yan Chen said to Ji Chen with a solemn gaze, "Continue to monitor the movements of those Supervisors and the various forces."


    "Report to me at once in case of an emergency."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen promptly bowed and said, "Yes!"


    Yan Chen waved his hand indifferently, "You may leave."


    Hearing this, Ji Chen replied again, then stood up straight and left the study.


    As he closed the door of the study, his gaze swept over Jia Wei several times as if trying to discern whether the "Jia Shu" before him was real or fake...


    If the Jia Shu before him was real, then why would his subordinates report that Jia Shu had been taken away by the Disciplinary Department?


    If the Jia Shu who was taken away was the real one, then who was this "Jia Shu" here?


    The door to the study slowly closed, sealing all of Ji Chen''s doubts within.


    As the door to the study shut, silence fell over the room.


    After a moment, Jia Wei chuckled lightly and said, "Old man, your new assistant is far worse than my brother or Old Bai."


    "His ulterior motives are practically written all over his face. Don''t you care at all?"


    Yan Chen''s half of his body was shrouded in darkness, making it impossible to see his expression.


    He fell silent for a moment before speaking softly, "He just hasn''t been polished yet."


    Yan Chen clearly didn''t want to talk about this topic, so after giving a brief comment, he directly changed the subject, "You''ve already heard the things he just reported."


    "With all the troubles we have now, you''d better clean up your own mess first."


    "As for... the deal, I''ll come to you when I''ve made up my mind."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei laughed nonchalantly. His focus had already shifted, and he stared at Yan Chen excitedly, asking, "My brother, has he been caught?"


    Yan Chen did not reply.


    But Jia Wei laughed as if he had heard the best news ever, holding his stomach and cackling madly, "He deserves it, truly deserves it!" sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let him lust after that junior officer''s body."


    "Now he''s fallen into a trap!"


    "Indeed, it is our God who is mighty, using just a simple trick to make them fight each other to the death."


    "Hahahaha."


    ```


    Listening to Jia Wei''s information-packed ravings, Yan Chen''s expression remained unchanged.


    He just watched quietly as Jia Wei ranted on and on.


    Only after Jia Wei had finished his frenzied speech and slowly came to a stop did Yan Chen leisurely raise his aged hand and gesture towards the door.


    Clearly, he was once again sending someone away.


    Seeing this, Jia Wei didn''t mind. His bloodshot eyes locked onto Yan Chen as he said with a smile, "Old man, you''ll come looking for us sooner or later."


    After saying this, he hummed a tune and cheerfully turned to walk towards the study door.


    When he reached the door, he reached out to grab the doorknob.


    But just as his hand was about to pull open the study door at that moment¡ª


    Suddenly!


    Stripe after stripe of straight bloodstains appeared out of nowhere on his entire body!


    The next second, blood erupted violently along those straight lines!


    And Jia Wei''s body was segmented into pieces, which then clattered to the floor!


    The only part that was still somewhat intact was his head!


    His face clearly bore an expression of disbelief, and his head frantically twisted backward, trying to look at Yan Chen!


    Until his head hit the ground did his eyes finally catch sight of Yan Chen!


    With a ferocious look, he cursed silently with his mouth, "Old bitch... "


    Afterward... his expression slowly solidified, and life faded away completely...


    The entire dismemberment scene was extremely eerie, as if it were cut instantaneously by some unseen thread!


    It was utterly creepy and terrifying!


    "Drip-drop" "Drip-drop"...


    Blood slowly dripped from the chunks of flesh, sounding exceptionally distinct in the silent study.


    Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness, slowly extended his aged arm from the shadows and picked up the teacup on the table.


    He sipped the tea from the lid, then opened it and took a small sip, it was bitter yet fragrant...


    ...


    Tang Feifei returned to the resting room at 12 o''clock midnight.


    By that time, Qiu Tu was already lying in bed and had fallen into a deep sleep.


    After a tiring day, having overexerted himself by bleeding and using spiritual power, he had completely drained his body and mind and urgently needed rest.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s pale face, Tang Feifei hesitated for a long time, her eyes flashing with frenzied golden light, but in the end, she didn''t pounce on him directly.


    She knew the difference between being fully satiated and being satisfied just for the moment.


    Even if she drained Qiu Tu tonight and upset him, it would be hard to lure him back in the future.


    It was better not to touch Qiu Tu tonight, to show some "broad-mindedness," and then slowly drain him after he had rested the next day!


    Thinking this way, Tang Feifei also took her change of clothes and went to take a shower...


    In the Shuigu Room, with steam enshrouding the air, Tang Feifei''s hand slid over her body. Since she had been prepared tonight but had not reached her goal, she felt something was missing.


    So, her hand slid down further...


    The way that used to be quite pleasurable to her felt suddenly numb after the day and night she had spent with Qiu Tu.


    Tang Feifei rubbed a few times and then, expressionless, withdrew her hand...


    .....


    The night passed without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up naturally from a restful sleep.


    Perhaps he had gotten enough rest, or maybe it was the strong constitution of the Cataclysmics. When he woke up, he felt energetic, as if he had come back to life!


    And when he thought about how his major problem, Jia Shu, had finally been captured, his mood brightened even more!


    Even the three Crisis Countdowns he had triggered last night couldn''t dampen his mood.


    Just as Qiu Tu was being thankful for life, suddenly, "ring ring ring," his Communicator went off.


    Qiu Tu sat up from Tang Feifei''s large bed, picked up the Communicator, and saw that it was Cao Dabiao calling.


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, he heard Cao Dabiao''s voice, now hushed, "Chief! Something big has happened!


    Qiu Tu had a rough idea of what Cao Dabiao was going to say, but he still feigned ignorance and asked, "What happened?"


    Cao Dabiao whispered, "Chief, the Disciplinary Department has come, they''ve sealed off Minister Jia''s office and are examining the files there."


    "It''s said that Minister Jia was arrested last night for some reason and hasn''t come to work until now."


    "Hasn''t come to work?" Qiu Tu pondered with his hand on his chin upon hearing this.


    If he remembered correctly, there should have been a fake "Jia Shu" yesterday, providing an alibi for him. Why was he gone?


    Did he flee because he saw something amiss, or... was there an accident?


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Cao Dabiao spoke up again in a low voice, "Also, Chief. The Disciplinary Department has just come to the investigative team, saying they''d like to have a talk with you this afternoon."


    "From what they imply, it seems to be related to Minister Jia''s case."


    Stay updated via empire


    After saying that, he asked anxiously, "Chief, you''re not going to be in trouble, are you?"


    ------


    This chapter was continually being blocked; no matter how I changed the keywords, it didn''t work until I deleted everything before it was released.


    The deleted part is Tang Feifei in the bath... comforting herself, but still feeling Qiu Tu was better. Something like that.


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words each, haha. The next will update around 8 pm.


    ```

 Chapter 174 Slapping Yan Chens Face! (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe)

    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned.He almost didn''t catch what Cao Dabiao was worried about.


    It wasn''t until his mind had taken a few turns that Qiu Tu suddenly remembered that he had actually been flaunting his association with Jia Shu and Yan Chen at the bureau for some time.


    So... in other people''s eyes, the label on him was actually: Die-hard supporter of Jia Shu and Yan Chen.


    Now that Jia Shu had run into trouble suddenly, it was normal for Cao Dabiao to worry about him.


    To tell the truth, in that instant, Qiu Tu felt like laughing: He had been at loggerheads with Jia Shu to the point where their brains were almost spilling out, yet to those ignorant of the truth, he was considered an ally. The world is indeed full of magic.


    With this thought, he casually reassured, "Don''t worry. This won''t affect me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao hesitated for a moment before whispering, "But... Commander, I think there''s something you might need to know."


    As Qiu Tu made a "Hmm?" sound, he got out of bed, slipped on his slippers, walked over to the window, and drew the curtains open.


    The oppressive black clouds from last night had still not dispersed by this morning, thickly coiling together and looming over the entire Xinjie City, as if brewing a massive storm.


    Looking at the somewhat oppressive weather outside the window, Qiu Tu asked, "What is it?"


    Cao Dabiao spoke softly, "I heard that the Bureau Chief called Minister Shi from the Organizational Department over this morning, followed by having him screen all department heads who had considerable achievements or seniority."


    "The aim was to select suitable candidates for the position of Deputy Chief of the Public Security Bureau."


    "Now some department heads who have a chance at competing for this deputy position are making rounds on the Organizational Department''s floor for no other reason than to make it onto this shortlist."


    "This..."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly.


    Although Cao Dabiao spoke very tactfully, he had expressed the intended message:


    A few days ago, after Third Master Qin, Qin Zhengguang, was caught, a position of Deputy Chief of the Public Security Bureau at the Investigation Bureau had become vacant.


    During the meeting discussion, Yan Chen hinted that this position should be temporarily left empty, but then transferred all its authority and business scope to Qiu Tu.


    This was essentially a public statement to everyone that the position was being reserved for Qiu Tu.


    Next, it was just a matter of waiting for Qiu Tu to transition for a period as a department head before being promoted again.


    Through this near overt political statement, everyone at the Investigation Bureau received two pieces of information:


    One, Qiu Tu had completely opened his path to advancement. Despite being at the same Principal Staff level as other heads, he would soon be promoted.


    Two, Qiu Tu was a confidant whom Yan Chen especially valued and planned to cultivate vigorously for a promising future.


    Also as a result of these two points, Qiu Tu''s influence within the Investigation Bureau had begun to skyrocket. Wherever he went, people tried to ingratiate themselves with him.


    But now, in less than a week, Yan Chen''s attitude had taken a 180-degree turn, which was bound to draw everyone''s attention.


    Put bluntly, Yan Chen was signaling to everyone at the Investigation Bureau through this small action that his attitude toward Qiu Tu had changed: He was now very dissatisfied with Qiu Tu!


    However, Qiu Tu had already anticipated Yan Chen''s current attitude: from the moment he planned to take down Jia Shu, he had been prepared to face Yan Chen''s wrath.


    The increasingly self-reliant Qiu Tu had not only left himself with multiple backup plans but also had the support of dozens of loyal followers like Cao Dabiao, as well as the protection of higher-ups like Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai.


    Furthermore, this morning, he had been entered into the Sanctuary''s registry and could no longer be killed at will.


    So he really wasn''t afraid of having a falling out with Yan Chen.


    In fact... he was even thinking about slapping Yan Chen''s face, pressuring him, and testing Yan Chen''s true attitude toward him!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s mind reeled back, and he came to a firm decision in his heart.


    Your journey continues with empire


    He walked over to the living room of the rest lounge, poured himself a cup of water, and while drinking, he said, "Big Biao, gather everyone from the investigation team later. I have some good news to announce to you all."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao curiously inquired, "What good news?"


    Qiu Tu lightly smiled, "The promotions I applied for you have been approved. All of your positions can be promoted by one level!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was clearly stunned on the other end of the phone.


    It took him a full two seconds to respond with disbelief, "Commander, what did you say? We''ve all been promoted in our positions?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Cao Dabiao swallowed, then asked tentatively, "Commander... does that, include me, too?"


    Qiu Tu, looking at the ominous clouds outside the window, responded with a light-hearted laugh, "Why? Don''t you count as a member of the investigation team, as my subordinate?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly expressed his loyalty with utmost seriousness, "How could that be possible! I, Cao Dabiao, am the most loyal subordinate of the Commander!"


    After speaking, his voice lowered again, as he chuckled awkwardly, "I just find it a bit hard to believe."


    No wonder Cao Dabiao found it hard to believe, when even Qiu Tu had been a bit incredulous receiving the approval yesterday.


    After all, although there''s only one rank between a First Level Detective and a Deputy Staff, a First Level Detective, no matter how senior, is still a detective, not part of the management, nor a real commander.


    While being a Deputy Staff might be the lowest in the management hierarchy, in terms of power, status, influence, potential for advancement, as well as benefits, it was worlds apart from a First Level Detective.


    This was a gap that was very hard to cross. It could be said that most detectives, if they didn''t make mistakes and endured their tenure, could eventually become First Level Detectives. But... most First Level Detectives might never become Deputy Staff in their lifetime.


    Having gone through this process himself, Qiu Tu understood Cao Dabiao''s excitement at this moment.


    So he reaffirmed calmly, "There''s no need not to believe. All the procedures are completed. I''ve even collected your new IDs and epaulets."


    "Once I start work, I''ll be able to distribute them to you."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s voice was already excited, starting to tremble as he said hastily, "Then, then I''ll call everyone to the office now, waiting for the chief to return!"


    [Cao Dabiao''s Loyalty +16, current Loyalty 96]


    Seeing the prompt that suddenly appeared before him, Qiu Tu smiled and hung up the phone.


    A Deputy Staff promoted to go with the flow in exchange for a Confidant with a Loyalty as high as 96¡ªworth it!


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu stood up and went to the bathroom to freshen up.


    As he freshened up, he pondered about promoting these Confidants.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu had been preparing for the upcoming major battle with Jia Shu, and since all his Confidants had been in the interrogation rooms, he hadn''t announced the good news to them.


    As it turned out, saving it for today actually came in handy¡ªan unexpected surprise indeed.


    Given the concerns raised by Cao Dabiao''s proactive call, it was clear his original two big backers¡ªJia Shu and Yan Chen¡ªone had been arrested and the other was dissatisfied with him, obviously making all his Confidants restless.


    At such a time, what he needed to do was not to test human nature: human nature is the last thing you want to test!


    What he needed to do was to quell everyone''s anxiety with a massive promotion celebration for dozens of people, boosting a huge wave of morale, and making all his Confidants and Subordinates believe that by following him, they would surely head towards victory!


    Only by joining all the forces that could be united in a crisis, could one better get through the crisis!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt even more determined in his heart.


    After freshening up and getting dressed, Qiu Tu turned around and left Tang Feifei''s resting room, then left her office through the secure passage he knew well.


    Tang Feifei seemed a bit busy today and wasn''t in her office, so Qiu Tu didn''t run into her.


    Qiu Tu guessed that she might be joining the Disciplinary Department in investigating Jia Shu''s case.


    He believed that when he talked to the Disciplinary Department in the afternoon, he should run into her.


    Exiting the secure corridor, Qiu Tu took a detour and re-entered the Investigation Bureau through the main entrance of the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Possibly because the news of Yan Chen''s cold attitude toward Qiu Tu had spread throughout the Bureau, the rest of the way, Qiu Tu was met with unusual glances from Detectives and Chiefs of various departments.


    The Detectives, who were once so enthusiastic to see him, now all deliberately circumvented Qiu Tu.


    The warmth and coldness of human relations were readily apparent.


    But Qiu Tu, confident in his position, didn''t panic at all. He ignored everyone''s strange looks, entered the elevator with his head held high, and made his way to the office of the [8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] investigation team.


    By then, his Subordinates were already waiting there.


    Possibly having received the news from Cao Dabiao, they all looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of fervor when they saw him coming.


    Qiu Tu smiled and glanced at them, without any delay. He walked directly to his desk, sat down, took out the key, and unlocked the drawer.


    The drawer contained all the new IDs, epaulets, and promotion documents for members of the investigation team, which he had collected from the Organizational Department the day before.


    Taking out all the IDs, epaulets, and documents, Qiu Tu began to call out names one by one.


    "Cao Dabiao!"


    "Present!"


    "Liu Fuping!"


    "Here~"


    "Chen Feng!"


    "Present!"


    With each name called out, each named individual stepped forward in turn, receiving their promotion document, new ID, and new epaulets from Qiu Tu''s hand!


    Upon seeing that everyone''s positions had indeed been promoted by one level, the delight was almost uncontrollable in the eyes of all his Confidants.


    The worries of the morning about Jia Shu''s arrest and Yan Chen''s cold shoulder towards Qiu Tu had all vanished!


    Interests are always the easiest way to unite people''s hearts!


    And this was followed by a flood of Loyalty notifications!


    [Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan... Loyalty +9]


    After completing the promotions for everyone, Qiu Tu didn''t let the matter end there.


    He had his Confidants bring over the records from yesterday''s interrogation of the Suit Man and Wang Xi, and then he sent them all out.


    Since he was already prepared to challenge Yan Chen and test her reactions, Qiu Tu did not mind scaling up the play.


    Having been promoted, it''s time to show off the success, let everyone in the Bureau bask in a bit of joy, right?


    ------


    Three chapters, 10,000 words haha. Continuing with ten-thousand words tonight!

 Chapter 175 The Truth About Suit Man (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)

    So, quite quickly, some rather peculiar scenes began to emerge on the 1st, 2nd, and 9th floors of the Investigation Bureau Office Building...For example, on the 1st floor, Eagle and Ah-Kun walked arm in arm to the Special Service Department''s training ground.


    Once they reached the training ground, the two didn''t speak and just kept circling around Brother Ted and Fang Ming''s squad.


    It wasn''t until Fang Ming was utterly confused and Brother Ted was about to punch someone with his sandbag-sized fists that Ah-Kun, with a big smile, gave a hint, "Captain Fang, Brother Ted, free to come to our promotion party tonight?"


    Hearing Ah-Kun''s words, Brother Ted, Fang Ming, and the members of their Special Task Squad suddenly noticed that the single golden star on the epaulettes of Eagle and Ah-Kun had turned into two!


    Fang Ming was still okay, but Brother Ted''s eyes really widened as he asked in disbelief, "How did you guys get promoted?"


    Hearing Brother Ted''s question, the somewhat reserved Eagle was alright, just smiling slightly, while Ah-Kun got a bit cocky, "How else could we be promoted? Of course, Brother Tu applied for us!"


    "See, that''s why you have to stick with Brother Tu for a future!"


    Brother Ted didn''t say anything upon hearing this, but his gaze kept darting towards Fang Ming.


    He glanced once, glanced again, and then another glance...


    Until he had Fang Ming thoroughly perplexed, he finally stopped.


    However, by this time, their conversation had already caught the attention of the other members of the Special Service Department. It wasn''t long before the news of the collective promotions under Qiu Tu spread throughout the entire Special Service Department, becoming its latest gossip...


    And like Eagle and Ah-Kun, others such as Cao Dabiao, Song Qing, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and Li Xian went to either the 2nd floor''s Public Security Bureau or the 9th floor''s Political Department.


    Their objective was quite straightforward: catch a colleague and start bragging.


    Honest folk like Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian were alright, just chatting with colleagues and patiently waiting for them to notice the change on their epaulettes. Hmm... If they didn''t notice, they wouldn''t let them go...


    For social butterflies like the young lady Song Qing, they were much more direct.


    She bounced around the offices of the Interrogation Section, grabbing anyone she saw and pointing at her own epaulettes to ask, "What is this?"


    "Two golden stars! Ever seen them before?"


    However, the most ruthless had to be Cao Dabiao. Unlike Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian''s steadiness or Song Qing''s exuberance, he was... incredibly smug. Discover hidden content at empire


    After leaving the investigation team, he went straight to the Action Division and, with hands behind his back, put on the air of a senior officer, inspecting everyone he recognized.


    Only after they looked at him with bewilderment would he gaze back gravely, imitating the tone of Qiu Tu when speaking or asking questions, and casually ask, "How did you know I''ve been promoted to Deputy Staff Head?"


    His questioned colleagues were truly puzzled: ??


    But after all, it was a happy occasion, and with Cao Dabiao promoted to Deputy Staff Head, they really did need to suck up to him, so they could only offer one flattering comment after another against their will.


    And at such moments, Cao Dabiao would just smile, nod slightly, with the unfazed composure of an officer.


    However, perhaps because his eyes always betrayed his pride, it did give off a bit of an upstart vibe...


    ...


    In this way, through a wave of bragging by Qiu Tu''s confidants, it didn''t take long for pretty much the entire Investigation Bureau to be aware of the news of the mass promotions within Qiu Tu''s team.


    This news truly made most of the investigators envious.


    After all, aside from basic needs, isn''t one''s life goal to get promoted and receive a raise, reaching the peak of life?


    Working under Qiu Tu, one would not only be protected in times of trouble but also be promoted immediately after making an accomplishment.


    This was indeed better than what 99% of supervisors offered.


    While many still found it incomprehensible why Yan Chen had blocked Qiu Tu''s promotional path one moment and then promoted all his subordinates the next,


    They couldn''t deny the fact: following Qiu Tu really did lead to promotions and raises!


    Thus, in an instant, Qiu Tu''s influence, which had just been suppressed by Yan Chen, bounced back vigorously, even more exaggeratedly than before... S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this time, apart from the average investigators, the section heads and division chiefs of the Investigation Bureau were also a bit puzzled.


    Although they knew more secrets and information than the average investigators, it didn''t help them better analyze the situation.


    On the contrary, it made them even less able to understand Qiu Tu''s maneuvers than the average investigators.


    After finding out from the Organizational Department that the list of promotions had been decided yesterday, they knew that this sizable wave of promotions wasn''t orchestrated by Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen was still very cold towards Qiu Tu.


    So it became odder. According to normal logic, after having upset the Bureau Chief Yan Chen, Qiu Tu should have tried to ingratiate himself with Yan Chen to regain his favor.


    So why... was he now challenging Yan Chen to a contest?


    A section head against the Bureau Chief? Was it he who was crazy, or had the world gone mad?


    This strange turn of events left most of the section heads and division chiefs confused.


    And with recent events piling up, even the Diciplinary Department had come, so for a while, they all shrank back, hiding and watching cautiously...


    So, with just a couple of simple tricks, Qiu Tu had stabilized the morale that was on the verge of dispersal and salvaged his influence within the Investigation Bureau that was about to collapse...


    After striking back at Yan Chen, Qiu Tu didn''t continue to confine himself to this game of politics. His heart returned to focusing on his cases.

 Chapter 175 The Truth About the Suit Man (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)_2

    In times of chaos, the most important and direct way for a person to win favor from those above is by showing their ability!Whether it''s Dai Yukang from the military or Commissioner Jiang from City Hall, didn''t they notice Qiu Tu because of his abilities?


    Therefore, if he wanted to continue scoring points in front of these two bosses, and leave a deep impression on the three dignitaries from the Supervisors brought by Tang Feifei, the best way was to crack the [8.19 Pharmacy robbery case], and try to obtain as many clues related to the Evil God as possible!


    With this in mind, after Qiu Tu had dispatched his subordinates to carry out "publicity work", he began to look into the interrogation records of Wang Xi and Suit Man.


    In both interrogations, Suit Man was uncooperative, no matter what Cao Dabiao asked, he just smiled and said nothing.


    Cao Dabiao used various methods, but apart from getting a piece of information that "God will definitely come and will definitely punish mankind", he got almost nothing.


    By contrast, Wang Xi was much more honest.


    Perhaps he had witnessed Qiu Tu''s methods, or perhaps Liu Fuping''s interrogation skills were truly superior.


    Anyway, he pretty much laid everything he knew out on the table, without holding back.


    According to him, he had encountered the Masked Man in Suit half a year ago.


    At that time, Xinjie City had been established for seven months, and the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was conducting its second recruitment drive.


    Coincidentally, he had fled from the Disaster Zone to Xinjie City.


    With knowledge of potions and alchemy skills, plus offering a small yellow fish as a bribe to the selecting officer, he was successfully recruited into the Investigation Bureau and assigned to the Interrogation Section of the Political Department as a Pharmacist.


    Once he secured a position with an imperial stipend, Wang Xi indulged in pride. Apart from work, he spent his time in Xinjie City eating, drinking, and living it up.


    Then... one day, he met an extraordinarily beautiful woman in a bar.


    That woman was indeed beautiful and charming. He fell in love with her at first sight and started to pursue her.


    At first, she didn''t take much interest in him, dismissing him indifferently. It was not until she found out that he was a Pharmacist, and an operative of the Investigation Bureau Political Department, that she finally smiled at him.


    Therefore, under the assault of his sweet talk and money, two days later, he finally won the beauty over.


    What he didn''t expect was that this marked the beginning of his nightmare...


    The next morning when he got up, he found a man with dyed red hair and a clown mask sitting by his bed.


    Wang Xi was initially startled, almost thinking that he had slept with someone''s wife and the aggrieved husband had come after him home.


    Later he learned... he had actually slept with him.


    Yes... the beautiful woman that Wang Xi had so desperately pursued in the bar that night was actually an avatar of Suit Man.


    While recalling this memory, Wang Xi''s expression was very tranquil, as if he didn''t mind the relationship he had with Suit Man.


    Stay connected through empire


    This did not match the normal attitude straight men have towards same-sex relationships, so Liu Fuping asked out of curiosity.


    And, surprisingly, her inquiry revealed important intelligence. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Wang Xi explained that he didn''t mind having had relations with Suit Man because the woman was actually a Puppet controlled by Suit Man''s Cataclysmic ability.


    Suit Man''s Cataclysmic ability is likely of the [Mystery] pathway, related to [Devour] and [Puppet] abilities.


    Therefore, to create avatars, Suit Man couldn''t split into another body directly as Wang Xi''s [Mitosis] Cataclysmic ability could.


    Instead... he must select a target, devour their soul, reconstitute it, and then spit out a soul in complete control!


    This soul would then reconnect with the original body, start to form a connection with Suit Man, becoming an entity both controlled by Suit Man and yet possessing some independent thought...


    So... although he indeed slept with Suit Man''s avatar, it can also be said that he was with the original beautiful woman.


    Even though the one manipulating the woman''s body, engaging with him in a night of passion, might have been Suit Man, the body was still that of the real woman.


    So he was still a straight man!


    Wang Xi''s declaration stunned the interrogators, Liu Fuping and Song Qing, for a few seconds, almost forgetting to continue the interrogation....


    Compared to the explosive beginning, the following story was much simpler.


    Just like in countless stories written before¡ªwhen someone with supernatural power, who claims they can also bestow such power on you, appears before an ordinary person, most ordinary people are unable to resist such temptation.


    Thus, Wang Xi gradually began to fall into Suit Man''s trap.


    Suit Man first had Wang Xi help craft some ordinary potions; then he had him concoct some Cataclysmic Potions with miraculous abilities; next, they used these Cataclysmic Potions for theft, robbery...


    Once Wang Xi was deeply ensnared, Suit Man began to extract information about the Political Department from him; then he had Wang Xi spy on Political Department''s secrets, and finally, started making Wang Xi worship the Evil God...


    With this "boiling frog" strategy, Wang Xi was slowly ensnared. By the time he finally realized something was wrong, it was too late for him to turn back...


    So, when Suit Man told him to pull off one last heist, claiming they would quit for good after this final job, he had no choice but to follow Suit Man down a path of no return...


    As a result, the two of them created the [8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] that shocked the entire Xinjie City, as well as the subsequent Evil God incident!


    After reading all the interrogation records of Suit Man and Wang Xi, Qiu Tu wore an expression of sudden understanding, feeling he had gained a lot.


    For example, he finally learned Suit Man''s secret: why he could produce so many different looking, gender-varying avatars, each one strong.


    Looking at it now, it should be the unique effect of his Cataclysmic ability.


    ''Devouring other people''s souls and making a different kind of Puppet, huh?''


    ''That is indeed powerful...''


    ''Six Second-Order Cataclysmics...''


    Thinking of the scene where Suit Man''s original body and five avatars all appeared together! Suddenly, Qiu Tu felt his own Cataclysmic ability wasn''t so strong anymore...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu glanced again at the name Suit Man was referred to in Wang Xi''s interrogation record...


    ''Jia Wei?''


    Qiu Tu murmured the name, his gaze slightly darkened...


    ''So... Suit Man is actually Jia Shu''s brother, the murderer?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the information about Jia Wei he had seen in Jia Shu''s files.


    According to the records, Jia Shu''s brother Jia Wei had also been a student at the Sanctuary''s Military Officers'' Academy. His prospects were as immeasurable as Jia Shu''s.


    But during an off-campus practice, he brutally murdered several civil servants in the Planning Area.


    Although these civil servants were not high-ranking and hadn''t made it into the Sanctuary''s records, Jia Wei was not any bigshot himself, just an ordinary student. Murder was a crime that demanded retribution.


    Thus, in his first trial, he was sentenced to death by Commissioner Yan Chen, the presiding judge.


    Later, it might have been that Jia Shu pulled some strings, or perhaps bribed Yan Chen. The death sentence was changed to exile during the second trial.


    And so, he was expelled from the Eighth Sanctuary...


    The case didn''t have many details recorded in the files, but it still gave one an inkling that something was amiss.


    But, Qiu Tu''s attention wasn''t focused on the saga of love and hate between the brothers Jia Shu, Jia Wei, and Yan Chen over the past decade or so.


    What he was interested in was... the current relationship between Jia Shu and Jia Wei.


    According to the hints from Crisis Intuition, though the two seemingly belonged to different factions, antagonism appeared to outweigh cooperation between them.


    So why would Jia Shu join Jia Wei in attacking him?


    And why was Jia Shu so interested in him?


    ------


    Extra update today, an update of 11,000 to 12,000 words! Still 3 chapters. Tonight, 2 chapters of 8k words. Another chapter of 3-4k words will be posted around 20:00.


    Before I knew it, it''s already dawn... off to sleep. Please vote for Monthly Tickets, subscribe!

 Chapter 176 The Truth Behind the Attack Incident (Subscribe for 11,000 Words!)

    While contemplating this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look over the interrogation records of Wang Xi and Jia Wei once more.Unfortunately, there was nothing in it that related to Jia Shu.


    Tossing the record onto the desk, Qiu Tu clasped his hands behind his head, leaned back in his chair, and pondered in silence where else he could find clues¡­


    As he thought, a sudden realization lit up Qiu Tu''s eyes!


    He remembered that he had once placed a [Silver Key Bee] on the Suit Man Jia Wei.


    After recording 36 hours of Jia Wei''s movements, the Silver Key Bee returned to him early yesterday morning and flew back to the beehive.


    Perhaps because he had been asleep, Qiu Tu had not noticed its return, so he had pushed the matter to the back of his mind.


    Now, wasn''t it the perfect time to take a look?


    Maybe within those 36 hours, he could find some clues?!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu quickly pulled the thumb-sized [Silver Key Beehive] from his pocket.


    Indeed, inside the beehive, four snow-white, slender Silver Key Bees lay quietly alongside one... a bloated, its body having turned black and lifeless bee.


    Qiu Tu picked up the blackened Silver Key Bee and, with practiced ease, crushed it.


    The next second, a scene flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind like a movie reel, displaying the entire 36-hour record of the Suit Man Jia Wei after he left Qiu Tu.


    Having used the Silver Key Bee before, Qiu Tu skillfully sped up the footage, hunting for information-rich clues.


    Soon, he paused on a scene of Jia Wei conducting a perculiar ritual late at night in a villa.


    In the scene, Jia Wei held an ancient, worn coin.


    He rubbed the face of the coin three times with his thumb, then the back four times before respectfully placing it on a table.


    The next second, the coin slowly evaporated into mist, floated up into the air, and formed into a human head...


    The head looked to be that of a teenager, with an oval face, almond eyes, and strikingly beautiful features¡ªit was none other than the Evil God Girl Larilo whom Qiu Tu had seen in his dreams¡­


    At that moment, seeing that Jia Wei had established remote communication with Larilo, he quickly knelt down and, with utter devotion on his face and a respectful tone, said, "My God, I''ve met with Qiu Tu as you commanded." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t say that. His dissolute demeanor really does have the potential to become one of us," Larilo chuckled at Jia Wei''s words, her voice soft and seductive like a songstress''s murmur, "You''ve marked him with my seal?"


    Jia Wei replied reverently, "Yes, I have."


    "And... I''ve also left him the most successful Madame Kong from your collection of works."


    "I believe that once he experiences it himself, he''ll understand that only the joy of reproduction is true bliss!"


    After speaking, seeing Larilo nod her head coquettishly, Jia Wei asked cautiously, "But, my God, I still don''t quite understand why you''d assign such an important task to a mere division chief like Qiu Tu."


    "With so many of my incarnations, I could''ve easily killed my brother. Why bother with all these complications?"


    At Jia Wei''s words, Larilo laughed lightly and condescendingly looked down at him before saying, "Jia Wei, do you really think you''re capable of killing your brother?"


    "Not to mention the number of guards that surround him as a senior member of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Let''s talk about his own strength..."


    She spoke lightheartedly, "You and he are of the same parents, closely related by blood, and your Cataclysmic abilities come from the same source."


    "Your ability is Devouring-Splitting, and his is Devouring-Coalescence¡­"


    "Although his ability has far more restrictions than yours, requiring certain conditions to devour, but... after all these years, he has devoured who knows how many Cataclysmics. His strength has advanced by leaps and bounds."


    "If I''m not mistaken, he should be at the Second-order Peak now, only a step away from becoming a Third Order Cataclysmic..."


    "Second-order Peak?!" At that moment, Jia Wei''s pupils noticeably constricted.


    He bowed his head, showing barely suppressed hatred, "I hadn''t realized he''d progressed so quickly!"


    "I''ve underestimated him!"


    When Larilo saw Jia Wei starting to lose control again, she shook her head slightly and sharply reprimanded, "Calm down!"


    Accompanied by her command, Jia Wei, as if a "Restart Key" had been pressed, truly calmed down quickly.


    He glanced at Larilo with an apologetic face, "My God, I lost my composure."


    Larilo laughed "giggly" a few times and said nonchalantly, "Your brother is your weakness. You must overcome this trial to reach a state of peace of mind¡­" Enjoy new adventures from empire


    "It''s not your fault."


    "But precisely because he is your affliction, this time I want you to act as bait to lure your brother out."


    "Lure him out?" Jia Wei did not quite understand.


    Larilo''s eyes narrowed mischievously, "Tonight, use your true body to seek out your brother for a meeting, ask for his help."


    "Say that you''ve been targeted by Qiu Tu and hope that he can settle this matter so that Qiu Tu will stop pursuing you."


    "With his cold-hearted nature, of course, he won''t help you."


    "But that''s not a problem. Then you can use the past incident as leverage. Tell him if he doesn''t help you, then you will reveal the truth about that old case to the public~~"


    "The parents of the victims from that case are still alive and active in the political scene of the Planning Area."

 Chapter 176 The Truth Behind the Attack Incident (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)_2

    "He wouldn''t want to provoke that big shot at a time like this. So to smooth things over, he will most likely agree to your demands on the surface,""That''s when you can throw out your real plan. You tell him you don''t want to live in fear every day, you want to nip it in the bud and kill Qiu Tu...."


    At this point, Larilo''s face revealed an evil smile, "Qiu Tu should be key to his advancement to a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "He is the fruit of his labor."


    "But... Qiu Tu has already become Chief, and in two days, he will be entering the Sanctuary''s register."


    "If he can''t Devour Qiu Tu before then, it will be even more difficult in the future~~"


    "Believe me, right now, he wants to kill Qiu Tu more than anyone,"


    "So..... once he realizes you can be a very useful knife, one that can cover his tracks, he will definitely be tempted and agree to your offer of cooperation...."


    "And by then, he will fall completely into Qiu Tu''s trap...."


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Jia Wei''s expression shifted gradually from pain to surprise, and his eyes slowly turned crimson!


    He murmured, "Just like..... the way he used me back then, let him find out again that I am of value?"


    "With the experience from back then, he definitely thinks I''ll still be at his mercy, becoming his scapegoat...."


    "So... his arrogance will lead him into the real trap!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s analysis, Larilo chuckled softly and nodded, "Yes...."


    She said, "That way, we can eliminate him, clear your demons, and also kick away a stumbling block."


    "These last two months, he has been investigating us quite a bit."


    "Just a while ago, particularly after he discovered the connection between the Qin family, Vice Chairman Tian, and me, he deliberately... used his own abnormalities as bait, to get Yan Chen and Qiu Tu''s attention, leading them to dig deeper into this case!"


    "So, by getting rid of him, our plan can proceed more smoothly!"


    On hearing this, Jia Wei also showed an empathetic expression of anger.


    However, after a few seconds, that expression vanished from his face. He asked tentatively, "But.... my god. Can Qiu Tu really take on my brother?"


    "He''s just a minor First-Order Catastropher, just a Chief...."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Larilo started laughing with a ''giggle giggle giggle''. A seductive smile appeared on her face, "If you really think he''s just a First-Order Catastropher or an ordinary Chief."


    "Then you''re making it too easy to fall headlong...."


    "That man, he''s not simple, you have no idea what he''s done in the shadows...."


    "Jia Shu might not really stand a chance if he underestimates him even a little...."


    Saying this, Larilo paused for a moment before continuing,


    "Moreover, it''s not just your brother who is messing with my plans, but him as well. Now let them fight like dogs, it doesn''t matter who dies, I''ll be happy...."


    "At worst, I''ll just take away the other one afterward...."


    "Giggle giggle giggle...."


    After watching the remote conversation between Jia Wei and Larilo, Qiu Tu fast-forwarded to check for other important information.


    However, soon the entire record was finished, and there was no other information worth noting.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu canceled the mental image and began to reflect on the intelligence he had obtained from the Silver Key Bee.


    This intelligence was critical, potentially unraveling most of the mysteries in his heart.


    For example, since Larilo and Jia Wei clearly knew him, why did they let Jia Wei meet with him that day, deliberately falling for his trap?


    Clearly, it was a strategy of Larilo''s, she deliberately wanted to "meet" him in this way, feeding him some false information along with real intelligence, to achieve their plan of ''drive the wolf to devour the tiger''.


    For example, why Jia Shu had always been weird towards him, giving him strange looks.


    Turns out... he was "food" selected by Jia Shu?


    Once he met certain criteria, he would become the "nourishment" for Jia Shu''s advancement. At that time, just by Devouring him, Jia Shu''s strength would become much stronger!


    That''s why Jia Shu had been purposefully nurturing him and tolerating many of his inappropriate behaviors.


    And perhaps because once a target is chosen, they cannot be changed, or it is very difficult to find a target like themselves.


    Furthermore... as soon as Jia Shu "devours" himself, he can be promoted to a Third Order Cataclysmic...


    That''s why he wanted to devour himself before his name could be entered into the Sanctuary registry!


    For instance... Larilo''s mole within the Investigation Bureau, indeed, is not Jia Shu.


    From her dialogue with Jia Wei, it''s clear that she truly understands herself, Jia Shu, and the entire Investigation Bureau.


    But at the same time, this conversation revealed that her relationship with Jia Shu is far from harmonious; they are enemies of each other.


    Therefore... she must have another source or channel of information. And this person must be lurking within the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    To be honest, compared to the destructive powers arising from the moles humans planted among themselves, the "traitors" wooed by the Evil God from among the higher-ups are evidently much more terrifying.


    Because... no one knows how much their information and their stances could aid the Evil God.


    And whether these aids might allow the Evil God to invade the real world more easily...


    Or take, for example... that ancient coin.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but pull out an identical coin from his pocket.


    This coin was searched out from the Catastrophic assassin: Lone Wolf.


    At that time, Old Master Qin explained that the coin was a gift from a deity to Lone Wolf, but as for what it was or how to use it, he wasn''t sure.


    Looking at it now... this coin should be a special communication device that can realize supernatural communication over vast distances.


    And staring at that coin, Qiu Tu thought about even more.


    Now that he knew the function of the coin and how to use it, could he also contact Larilo anytime he wanted?


    Qiu Tu certainly hadn''t forgotten about his "Appreciation of the Evil God" [Crisis Countdown].


    It''s always much better to proactively solve some things than to solve them passively...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu played with the coin while pondering how to communicate with Larilo...


    Just like that, a morning''s time quickly passed.


    At noon, Qiu Tu went to the Sky Garden on the ninth floor for lunch.


    Perhaps because of the collective promotion of his subordinates, along the way, Qiu Tu once again received numerous friendly greetings and calls, as if everything had returned to the way it was before.


    Of course, the chiefs and directors of the bureau still shunned him...


    After lunch, Qiu Tu returned to the investigative team, resting while patiently waiting for the arrival of the Disciplinary Department.


    At 2 PM, Tang Feifei finally made the call, "Chief Qiu, do you have time? A few of the officials from the Disciplinary Department would like to meet with you in person."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the already somewhat bored Qiu Tu sat up and replied with a smile, "Of course, I have time. May I ask where should I go now?"


    Tang Feifei paused for a moment before answering coolly, "Come to the ninth floor, to my office."


    "I have a meeting room here to ensure absolute privacy and safety."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback, remembering the wild night the two had in that meeting room...


    It was indeed very private and very safe...


    Although his thoughts had strayed, on the surface, Qiu Tu responded earnestly, "All right, I''ll come up now."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu was about to hang up the phone.


    However, just then, after a moment''s hesitation, Tang Feifei added softly, "Oh, one more thing, you might want to be mentally prepared..."


    "Jia Shu has professional training and years of experience in the Political Department."


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    "He''s not saying anything now. The case is a bit tough to handle..."


    ------


    There will be an extra update today: an update of 11,000 to 12,000 words, still 3 chapters. Tonight, 2 chapters of 8,000 words. There will also be a chapter of 3-4,000 words, which will be published around 20:00.


    Unnoticeably, it''s already dawn... Off to sleep. Asking for Monthly Tickets, asking for subscriptions!

 Chapter 177 Is Director Liu a Victim of the Incident That Year? (11,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Tang Feifei paused for a moment before saying, "So... this case might drag on for a very long time.""Before the dust settles, nobody knows if there will be some unexpected developments."


    She didn''t go into detail, but Qiu Tu understood what she meant.


    To have risen to his position, Jia Shu must have capabilities, and certainly someone''s favor from above.


    And that person was definitely not Yan Chen: after all, Yan Chen and Jia Shu were only one rank apart and couldn''t determine Jia Shu''s position.


    So, that person''s status must be higher than Yan Chen''s, with significant influence in the Sanctuary... perhaps even one of the real power players.


    It was precisely because he had such a backer that Jia Shu, since being arrested last night, hadn''t said a word or cooperated.


    Plainly speaking... he was waiting for the situation to ferment, waiting for the person behind him to rescue him¡ªhe hadn''t given up hope at all.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but stroke his chin in contemplation...


    Although Jia Shu was tight-lipped, Qiu Tu felt he had a rough understanding of the whole affair from the interrogation records of Wang Xi and the video footage from the "Silver Key Bee."


    ''So... can I strive for the "right to interpret" the entire case?''


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu reflected silently...


    ''But... after seeking this right to interpret, what could I do with it? What goal could I achieve?''


    ''Is it possible to pin Jia Shu down so that his backer can''t intervene?''


    As these thoughts crossed his mind, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered nonstop.


    Twenty-some seconds later, his eyes lit up, then furrowed slightly.


    Just then, an idea for a permanent solution to the Jia Shu problem had sprung into his mind. But... it lacked a crucial figure!


    ''This is going to be tough...''


    ''Looks like I''ll have to take it one step at a time.''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu put the matter to the back of his mind for now, deciding to meet with the three officials from the Disciplinary Department first and see their stance before making a decision.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu packed up interrogation records, documents, and files from his desk, stood up, and prepared to leave for his appointment with Tang Feifei.


    As he left his office, Qiu Tu had only taken a few steps when he came face to face with Liu Fuping, who was swaying towards him.


    When others were promoted, their presence usually became more refined and profound, exuding an aura of quiet authority. But Liu Fuping was different. After her promotion... she seemed even coyer.


    ''The nourishment of power?''


    Mocking her inwardly, Qiu Tu prepared to greet Liu Fuping.


    However, just as the name "Liu Fuping" was about to leave his lips, Qiu Tu suddenly froze as if he had thought of something...


    After hesitating, he quickly stepped forward, grabbed Liu Fuping''s hand, and before the surprised outcry from this beautiful woman could escalate, pulled her into a nearby vacant conference room!


    When Liu Fuping first saw Qiu Tu, her eyes had already turned into two curving rainbows, ready to get flirty, hold hands, and exchange a peck or two.


    But when Qiu Tu abruptly and forcefully pulled her into the empty conference room, the startled Liu Fuping instantly backed down.


    Clutching her surging chest, she said with a troubled look, "Qiu Tu... even though you''ve promoted me, I''m not one to casually sell my body."


    Pausing, she blinked her attractive eyes and added, "And... I got my period today."


    "Otherwise... with my mouth?"


    Qiu Tu: ??


    He knocked Liu Fuping''s head and reprimanded, "What are you always thinking about? Always scheming to get something for nothing, aren''t you?"


    "I pulled you over here because I have something serious to ask you."


    With that, Qiu Tu closed the door, led Liu Fuping to the corner, and asked softly, "I remember the Bureau Chief from Eastern City harbors a grudge against Yan Chen, right?"


    "And this grudge is not something small, is it?"


    As Liu Fuping nodded, Qiu Tu continued to ask, "Do you know what the grudge is about?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping''s previously rosy face suddenly turned serious.


    After a moment of silence, she slowly said, "It''s a grudge over the death of a son."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze hardened slightly, "A grudge over the death of a son?"


    Qiu Tu probed further, "But... it wasn''t Yan Chen who killed his son, right?"


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu surprisingly, as if she didn''t understand how he could have guessed that.


    Still, she nodded and said, "No, it''s not. But the incident was related to Yan Chen. He''s the one the Bureau Chief hates the most."


    Liu Fuping seemed quite informed about the matter. Her eyes reflecting memories, she said, "The Bureau Chief is actually quite a unique figure in the political landscape of the Planning Area."


    ```


    "He isn''t like most of the middle and upper ranks from the Planning Area, who were nurtured by the Sanctuary. Instead..."


    At this point, Liu Fuping glanced at Qiu Tu in front of her, "he''s a bit like you."


    "He was initially just an ordinary low-level citizen in the Disaster Zone."


    "Later, when the Eighth Sanctuary was established, and the first batch of Planning Areas was delineated, he, like you, seized the opportunity and became an investigator."


    "Then, relying on his outstanding abilities, he climbed up step by step and gradually became a notable person in the Investigation Bureau."


    "Originally, he should have, like you, held a winning life script. As long as he persisted, he could keep rising and ultimately transform his life completely."


    "However, just then, an accident happened. During a practice activity organized by the Sanctuary Officer Academy, a student secretly and brutally killed several investigators from the Planning Area."


    "Among them... was his son."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze revealed a hint of understanding.


    He couldn''t help asking, "And Yan Chen, was he the judge for that case?"


    Liu Fuping nodded, then shook her head, "He was a judge, but not just a judge." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She said, "At that time, Yan Chen was a teacher at the Sanctuary Officer Academy. The practice activity was led and overseen by him."


    "His student had committed such a heinous crime; it deeply affected him as well."


    "So, at first, he was strict in declaring to everyone that the case must be dealt with impartially! He would definitely not go easy just because the murderer was his student."


    "Therefore, the Investigation Bureau of the Planning Area and the Officers'' Academy formed an inspection team to specifically investigate and judge this case."


    "Although the murderer never admitted his crime, all the traces at the scene pointed to him, and there was no second suspect."


    "So, at the first trial, the inspection team''s verdict was guilty, sentencing the murderer to death."


    "But then... something happened. During the second review, Yan Chen suddenly changed his stance, suggesting there were serious doubts about the case."


    "Moreover, he argued that the victims were not residents of the Sanctuary and thus not subject to Sanctuary law, and he changed the death sentence to exile."


    "The Sanctuary Officer Academy is a Sanctuary institution dedicated to training elites. Not only does the academy have complete autonomy over internal affairs, but many middle-ranking officers in the Investigation Bureau and the military also come from that academy, wielding broad influence."


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    "Additionally, as they did not release the murderer with no consequences but expelled him from the Sanctuary..."


    "Thus, when Yan Chen, as the team leader and representative of the Officers'' Academy, had made up his mind, the other members of the inspection team did not persist and eventually agreed with his opinion."


    Saying this, Liu Fuping continued expressionlessly, "But such a verdict obviously couldn''t satisfy the relatives of the deceased."


    "Especially for Director Liu, who had suffered the pain of losing a son, it was utterly unacceptable."


    "Therefore, over the years, apart from ceaselessly pursuing and trying to execute the exiled murderer, he has also been antagonizing Yan Chen."


    "After all, if it weren''t for Yan Chen purposely letting the murderer off, perhaps everything would have been different..."


    At this, Liu Fuping paused and sneered sarcastically, "Perhaps Yan Chen never expected that a minor section chief from the Planning Area could, in just over a decade, climb to a high position, become his political rival, and keep opposing him."


    "So, over the years, Yan Chen has almost never mentioned this matter and rarely provoked Director Liu."


    Having listened to Liu Fuping''s narration, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, feeling that everything had come together.


    In fact, as soon as Qiu Tu knew that Director Liu was at odds with Yan Chen, and was willing to take the risk of stepping over the line by planting a spy in Xinjie City, he had suspected the extent of the conflict between the two.


    ¡ª¡ªIf it were merely a simple disagreement in political opinion or an ordinary conflict, it likely wouldn''t have escalated to this extent.


    Latterly discovering that Director Liu had cooperated with Commissioner Jiang, a high-ranking official from a different faction, even at the risk of being suppressed by the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu became even more certain of his thoughts¡ªthere must be a deep-seated hatred between them!


    So, when he saw the years-long grievances between Jia Wei, Jia Shu, and Yan Chen, and after speaking with Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu immediately conceived a bold idea: Could it be that Director Liu was a relative of that victim?


    Now, after hearing Liu Fuping''s explanation, Qiu Tu confirmed his suspicion.


    And this also allowed him to fit the last piece into the puzzle of his plan.....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu embraced Liu Fuping''s face, kissed her fiercely, and then said, "Sister Liu, you truly are my lucky star!"


    After the kiss, Qiu Tu laughed and groped Liu Fuping''s full chest, then turned and left the empty office.


    He left behind Liu Fuping, covering her chest with her hand, her face blushing as she watched his retreating figure, her eyes misty as if covered by a layer of water, hazy...


    After bidding farewell to Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu took the elevator to the 9th floor.


    Arriving on the 9th floor, many section chiefs and division chiefs were waiting outside Yan Chen''s office for an audience.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu arrive on the 9th floor, their gazes turned curious, attempting to see whom Qiu Tu was seeking.


    Having already prepared to probe Yan Chen''s mind, Qiu Tu made no effort to hide himself and strolled towards Tang Feifei''s office...


    This instantly caused some of the section chiefs and division chiefs waiting outside Yan Chen''s office to be quite taken aback....


    -------


    ```

 Chapter 178 Qiu Tu: Jia Shu Is Wronged (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    Obviously, in the minds of these section chiefs and division chiefs, Qiu Tu should be Yan Chen''s trusted confidant.Even if Yan Chen was angered, there were still measures and possibilities for remediation. There was absolutely no need to openly break with Yan Chen.


    It should be known that as a former teacher from the Sanctuary Military Academy, Yan Chen had considerable influence in Xinjie City, let alone the entire Planning Area.


    The Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was entirely under Yan Chen''s control. Although Tang Feifei also had her own backing, she was, after all, only a deputy, without proper authority or rhetoric, and simply unable to stand against Yan Chen.


    For Qiu Tu to so clearly switch sides was simply unwise...


    If Qiu Tu were here at this moment, he would certainly scoff at their thoughts.


    They indeed understood the situation... but they did not understand Yan Chen...


    If Yan Chen were someone who, after being betrayed, could forgive just by receiving an apology, then he and Jia Shu would not have reached the point they were at today...


    Therefore, the worst thing to do after showing so many signs of doubt was to compromise...


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu also knocked on Tang Feifei''s office door.


    "Knock, knock, knock..."


    After a moment, the door to Tang Feifei''s office was opened from the inside. Su Xiaowan, Tang Feifei''s assistant and Qin Shuman''s spy, poked her head out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, her eyes lit up, and then she smiled and said, "Chief Qiu, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    With that said, she opened the door wider and gestured to Qiu Tu with her hand.


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then walked into the office.


    Inside the office, Tang Feifei was sitting behind her desk, reviewing documents.


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Good day, Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, Tang Feifei looked up, and her icy expression thawed into a pool of spring warmth.


    She pointed to the chair in front of the desk and motioned, "Sit."


    It was the first time Qiu Tu had encountered Tang Feifei in her professional setting, so he nodded, walked over, and sat down.


    Su Xiaowan seemed to have made some progress compared to last time. Seeing Qiu Tu sit down, she quickly scurried off to make a cup of tea and brought it to him.


    A couple of days ago, Qiu Tu had inquired with Song Qing; this young lady and Song Qing were classmates from the same school.


    Their family situations were similar, with both sets of parents being business people who had some wealth, so both girls had been quite spoiled since childhood. This upbringing gave them both a somewhat na?ve and lively character.


    But in these chaotic times, it was already extraordinary for parents to ensure temporary safety; for them to remain so na?ve and happy for a lifetime would be exceedingly difficult.


    Without going too far, just consider Song Qing and Su Xiaowan. Both had become embroiled in the struggle between the Evil God and humanity, as well as the conflict between the Security Department and the Investigation Bureau.


    In such major events, a single misstep could result in complete destruction.


    Thinking, ''This is truly pitiable...'' Qiu Tu picked up the teacup and took a sip.


    After a while, Tang Feifei finished reviewing the document. She raised her head, her spirited eyes turned to Su Xiaowan, "Xiaowan, take this document to the Training Department."


    As she spoke, she handed the document in her hand to Su Xiaowan.


    Seeing this, Su Xiaowan hurriedly took it with an adorable gesture and then scurried off to deliver the document....


    After sending off Su Xiaowan, the carefree girl, Tang Feifei leaned back in her chair with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile and teased Qiu Tu, "What''s the matter? Feeling a bit sentimental?"


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to be so perceptive, but this wasn''t something he needed to hide.


    So, he spoke frankly, "Director Tang is joking. I just feel that her personality isn''t suited for these chaotic times where people prey on each other...."


    "If she lived in peacetime, perhaps she could happily go to school with peers her age, have a love affair that would mark her deeply, get into college, find an ordinary job."


    "With her personality, she''d surely be very popular with the boys. So, she would likely marry, have children, and then live out a simple yet happy life....."


    "But unfortunately, she lives in chaotic times..... Such a personality is only going to harm her." Your next chapter awaits on My Virtual Library Empire


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s genuinely regretful words, Tang Feifei smiled. She stood up, walked toward Qiu Tu, and as she did, she said, "Instead of worrying about her, you might want to think about your own upcoming situation."


    She continued, "Now, as per your request, I''ve had the Disciplinary Department arrest Jia Shu."


    "But Jia Shu is not cooperative at all. Clearly, he still harbors some delusions."


    "And those men in suits and masks seem to have lost their minds too, alive but like puppets, showing no reaction whatsoever."


    "Now, not only have we reached a deadlock in the case, even Yan Chen has started to press both you and me." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei walked up to Qiu Tu, leaned her hands on his chair, her body leaning forward, her face close to Qiu Tu''s as she inquired, "So.... what are you planning to do, Mr. Strategist?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, a confident look spread across Qiu Tu''s face. He smiled and asked, "What does the Disciplinary Department think?"


    Tang Feifei raised an eyebrow, not answering directly, but instead offered a metaphor, "The Disciplinary Department, how should I put it...."


    "They''re like the lovers who are both indifferent and passionate."


    "The various powers battle it out, your turn follows mine, like the actors on a stage."


    "They just watch the excitement, not entering the fray."


    "So, if there''s evidence, they make the arrest. If not, they release. Without any bias."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, "That should also be what the Sanctuary truly requires of them."


    "After all, what the Sanctuary needs now is to unite all possible forces to try and restore Order in the world."


    "Under such circumstances, even if there are big flaws or minor issues, they can be dealt with after achieving greater unity."


    "Thus, the Sanctuary won''t grant the Disciplinary Department the power to handle cases or conduct in-depth investigations into certain matters, but rather let them act as a referee. If someone steps out of line, they issue a warning; if there really is evidence, they take action; but if there''s no evidence, then they just ignore it."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei nodded in approval, "What you said is right. This is indeed what the higher-ups in the Sanctuary are thinking."


    As she spoke, she added a change of tone, "So, how are you planning to handle what comes next?"


    If before meeting Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu might have hesitated about his upcoming plan, then after meeting Liu Fuping, having put the last piece of the puzzle in place, Qiu Tu had come to a decision.


    He patted the file bag in his hand and said with a smile, "How else can I handle it? Be realistic and seek truth from facts."


    "I won''t wrong a good person, but I also won''t let any bad person off the hook."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident expression, Tang Feifei''s face revealed a hint of a smile.


    Truthfully, she really loved that confident look on Qiu Tu.


    That spirit shining through his eyes always reminded her of an ancient poem from before the Cataclysm: With the spring breeze lifting his spirits, the horse gallops fast, admiring all the flowers in Chang''an in a single day.


    The youthful vigor and soaring self-confidence always seemed so enchanting...


    While inwardly moved, Tang Feifei straightened up and said, "Alright then, since you are prepared, let''s go meet those Supervisors together."


    Having said this, Tang Feifei, with her long legs, took the lead and headed towards the lounge.


    Qiu Tu put down his cup and followed her.


    When they reached the door of the lounge, Tang Feifei suddenly stopped. She turned around and looked at Qiu Tu teasingly, saying, "Oh right, I''ve been working really hard to help you these past few days. So... what about your promise to me?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Must we talk about such an improper subject in such a serious setting?


    Thinking this, he coughed and said, "Don''t worry. I''ve also been preparing diligently. Moreover, I''ve prepared a lot."


    Tang Feifei smiled and nodded her head as she was about to open the door. Suddenly, she paused and sharply turned to look at Qiu Tu, "When you say you''ve prepared a lot, you''re talking about energy, right?"


    "Not another word?"


    Qiu Tu smiled without saying a word.


    What''s the difference?


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s mischievous smile, Tang Feifei knew that what Qiu Tu had just said was definitely not something proper.


    But it must be said, Qiu Tu truly understood her character well. At times when open defiance could no longer pique Tang Feifei''s interest, this kind of stealthy resistance from Qiu Tu irrationally hit her spot.


    So, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, "Stay with me tonight."


    Qiu Tu, "How about tomorrow?"


    Tang Feifei: ...


    "Fine."


    The clean and crisp rejection reignited Tang Feifei''s hunting desire, a tawny glow beginning to shimmer in her eyes.


    However, it was this push-and-pull that heightened her anticipation for what was to come the next night to its peak!


    ''No rush... easy does it with hot tofu. Full meal after meal... full meal after meal...''


    Following Tang Feifei into the lounge.


    Inside the lounge''s guest room, Qiu Tu met the three Supervisors he had seen last night.


    The three were indeed like what Tang Feifei had described¡ªmere onlookers. Even with a case in hand, they just sat there quietly reading the newspaper without making any effort.


    As soon as they saw Tang Feifei leading Qiu Tu inside, they neatly put down their newspapers and stood up.


    The middle-aged man at the forefront nodded coolly to Tang Feifei, then said, "Director Tang, this must be Chief Qiu?"


    Tang Feifei''s expression turned to an iceberg as she entered the lounge. She nodded her head and introduced, "Correct. This is Qiu Tu, the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division from the Investigation Bureau Political Department."


    After that, she also introduced the middle-aged man to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, this is Tang Jiancha."


    Qiu Tu nodded and reached out his hand, "Hello, Tang Jiancha. I am Qiu Tu."


    Tang Jiancha coldly extended his hand and shook hands with Qiu Tu.


    Releasing the handshake, he continued, "This is the situation, Chief Qiu,"


    "Based on the reports by Director Tang and yourself, we have started an investigation on Minister Jia Shu."


    "However, we only have evidence of him attacking you. We lack evidence of his collusion with the Evil God."


    "After his arrest, he has also continuously refused to cooperate with the investigation. Only when asked why he wanted to kill you did he claim to have a personal grudge."


    "He has been labeling the incident as a coincidence."


    "In other words, he says his attack on you has no strong connection to the assault perpetrated by the Evil God Cultists that day."


    "Moreover, we did not detect any traces of the Evil God''s faith on him."


    "Therefore, we''d like to ask you some questions to understand the entire process of the event and see if there are any additional clues or information."


    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and then said, "Actually, I don''t think it''s necessary. To me, Minister Jia might have been wronged. We should just release him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the atmosphere in the guest room became stagnant.


    Whether it was Tang Feifei or the three Supervisors, expressions froze on their faces.


    Tang Feifei was possibly more familiar with Qiu Tu''s remarkable maneuvers and trusted him, so she didn''t make any move.


    But the three Supervisors, meeting Qiu Tu for the first time, were staring at him blankly, momentarily at a loss for words.


    After a pause, the leading Tang Jiancha managed to force a smile and said, "Chief Qiu is joking, right?"


    "We personally witnessed Minister Jia attacking you."


    "Moreover..." he hesitated, warningly added, "Do you know how serious and vile it is to arbitrarily accuse a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu smiled indifferently and replied, "However serious and vile it might be, shouldn''t it still be less grave and serious than arbitrarily detaining a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau?"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu extended his hand again, then added, "So, Tang Jiancha, we are partners, not an Interrogation Officer and a suspect..."


    -------


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 Chapter 179 Do You Want to Get Promoted Again? (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the three Supervisors were stunned for a moment before they understood his intention...Put simply, Qiu Tu was very dissatisfied with how they had just treated Tang Feifei and himself.


    He was using this behavior to warn the three: now that Jia Shu has been arrested, if he is released without charges, everyone will have to take responsibility.


    So don''t play those patron and actor dramas, everyone is tied to the same string.


    If pushed too far, Qiu Tu would flip the table, leaving everyone with no game to play.


    Realizing this, Tang Jiancha''s eyes clearly showed a hint of surprise and interest.


    He looked deeply at Qiu Tu, then smiling, he looked at Qiu Tu''s extended hand and shook it again, "You are quite interesting, Chief Qiu."


    Feeling Tang Jiancha''s enthusiasm this time, Qiu Tu also smiled modestly, "Not bad, not bad. Just hoping the cooperation to come will be smoother."


    Witnessing the whole process, Tang Feifei''s gaze was shifting, and even the clear yellow at the bottom of her eyes seemed somewhat unstoppable.


    She found such a Qiu Tu very interesting. A few simple sentences had completely changed the attitude of the Supervisors.


    However, she was more curious about what Qiu Tu would do if the Supervisors'' attitudes didn''t change, or even if they agreed to release Jia Shu.


    After all... arresting a high-ranking official from the Investigation Bureau was a serious mistake for the Disciplinary Department, but it wasn''t to an unbearable extent...


    Thinking this, she took the opportunity to smooth things over and asked,


    "Chief Qiu, that''s because Tang Jiancha is magnanimous. If it were another Supervisor seeing your attitude, they might directly agree to your request."


    "What would you do then?" sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "First, I believe Tang Jiancha won''t be such an irresponsible Supervisor."


    After giving a compliment, Qiu Tu continued with his real reason,


    "Second... actually, what I just said was not out of anger, but the truth. Minister Jia being accused of worshiping an Evil God might really be a wrongful accusation. Of course... he has made many other mistakes."


    "So, release means release, but it''s not a release without charges."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu raised the document bag in his hand and took the initiative to say, "I have already prepared all the relevant materials; we can discuss them in detail now."


    It has to be said, Qiu Tu''s response was indeed perfect. He flattered, eased the atmosphere, explained his backup plan for his earlier response, and even managed to raise the expectations of the Supervisors.


    So, soon, Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, Tang Jiancha, and the other two sat in the reception room, studying the materials Qiu Tu had brought.


    That morning, upon learning that he would meet with the Disciplinary Department, Qiu Tu began to prepare the materials.


    Included were all the clues and evidence he had collected during this time, as well as Wang Xi''s interrogation record, and a detailed description of the subtle relationship between the Jia brothers, Jia Shu and Jia Wei, and the Evil God.


    As Qiu Tu laid out the confessions and clues on the table, one by one explaining them to everyone, they finally understood the full context of the case...


    They discussed it among themselves for a while. In the end, it was Tang Jiancha who summarized first.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, asking, "So... you mean to say, Jia Shu is actually not an Evil God Cultist, but his own brother, Jia Wei, is?"


    "And in the past two months, after discovering the dealings between the Evil God and Jia Wei, he has been trying to stop them?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu nod, Tang Jiancha continued, "However, his Cataclysm Path might be very special. He must kill someone and Devour them to improve."


    "So over the years, he has secretly killed many people. And his next target was you?"


    Qiu Tu nodded again with a smile, then followed up, "And just so happens, I have been investigating the Evil God Cultist cases recently. The Evil God wants to get rid of me."


    "So his brother became the bridge between him and the Evil God. They reached a cooperation to attack and kill me together."


    After Qiu Tu finished speaking, Tang Feifei, with a somber gaze, summarized, "So, although he has not betrayed humanity, has not betrayed the Sanctuary..."


    "But..."


    "1. Did he briefly collude with the Evil God?"


    "2. Has he harmed his colleagues?"


    Qiu Tu added another point, "And 3. He clearly discovered an Evil God Cultist, but not only did he let the cultist go, he also hid it and didn''t report it."


    "So, he violated the professional ethics and principles of his position as the Head of the Political Department."


    As Qiu Tu filled in all the details, the atmosphere in the reception room became a bit awkward for a time.


    The Supervisors looked at each other, and Tang Feifei also glanced at Qiu Tu from time to time, and then at...


    Obviously... they were all somewhat puzzled by Qiu Tu''s thoughts...


    According to normal logic, with the extent to which Qiu Tu and Jia Shu have fought, it really has come down to a life-and-death struggle.


    Let alone Qiu Tu helping Jia Shu reduce his culpability, it would be considered kind of him not to fabricate slander and evidence, and to furiously besmirch Jia Shu.


    And yet... Qiu Tu was actually earnestly trying the case?


    For a while, Qiu Tu baffled them all.


    Therefore, the reception room fell silent for a while, and after glancing at the three Supervisors, Tang Feifei reminded, "Qiu Tu, if the truth of the matter really is as such."


    "Then although Jia Shu may be removed from the position of Head of the Political Department... he will not be subjected to much punishment."


    "After all, he has not betrayed humanity or the Sanctuary. Even if he attempted to assassinate you... he did not succeed."


    "Moreover, since you were not registered in the Sanctuary''s census last night, the people he killed in the past few years are already beyond verification."


    "So, once the commotion over this incident settles down, it''s very likely that he will be reinstated. His rank might not even be significantly demoted."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pretended to think for a moment, then deliberately asked, "Would it be possible to expel him from Xinjie City and never allow him back in?" Enjoy new tales from My Virtual Library Empire


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu added, "He''s been keeping an eye on me, and I''m somewhat worried."


    Tang Jiancha thought briefly and replied, "Of course, there''s no problem with that."


    "After all, it''s a reasonable request."


    After finishing, he seemed still somewhat incredulous that Qiu Tu would let Jia Shu off so lightly, so he confirmed again, "Are you sure you have no other demands, or... that you don''t have any other evidence against Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu smiled while shaking his head, trying to appear as sincere as possible.


    He said, "I''m just being factual. If Minister Jia has not turned to the Evil God, he hasn''t. I won''t fabricate evidence."


    Seeing how earnest Qiu Tu was, to be honest, the three members of the Disciplinary Department felt a touch of respect for him.


    As members of such a particular department, they had seen too many vile acts. However... that didn''t mean they lacked the notions of ''justice'' and ''fairness'' in their hearts.


    It''s just that, given the chaotic times, they had grown numb to many issues...


    Now, they suddenly encountered a youth like Qiu Tu, who also harbored ''justice'' and ''fairness'' in his heart. They couldn''t help but feel favorably toward him...


    Moreover, possibly contemplating the grievances Qiu Tu endured in this case, Tang Jiancha fell into deep thought, then slowly asked, "Chief Qiu, would you like to become a real Bureau Chief?"


    What he meant by "Bureau Chief" was clearly a position at the Division Chief level, not the current Principal Section Level position that Qiu Tu held.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up upon hearing this. However, instead of expressing his thoughts directly, he jokingly asked, "Can I become a Division Chief just by taking down our Minister? Is there such a great deal?"


    "If I take down Director Tang, could I even become a Bureau Chief?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s joke, Tang Feifei couldn''t hold back and gave Qiu Tu a punch while laughing.


    Qiu Tu winced in pain and chuckled while rubbing his arm.


    Tang Jiancha and the others laughed at the scene.


    After the laughter, they spoke seriously, "Becoming a Bureau Chief is definitely a joke. But a Division Chief or Deputy Division Chief, that we believe is possible."


    Speaking, the three exchanged glances, and then Tang Jiancha continued, "The Political Department''s main scope of work is intelligence, espionage, counter-espionage, and internal supervision."


    "We cannot interfere in other areas of work, nor is it right for us to ask. But... internal supervision is within the scope of work delegated to the Political Department by the Disciplinary Department."


    "With Jia Shu being dismissed, regardless of which of the two remaining Deputy Ministers is promoted, a Deputy Minister position will be left vacant."


    "If we strongly recommend you, you should be able to fill that position as the head of the supervision branch."


    "What do you think about it?"


    What did Qiu Tu think? He had no objections at all!


    Wasn''t this like a pie falling from the sky?!


    He originally thought that after offending Yan Chen, the position of Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau was out of reach. His Cataclysmic ability would take a long time to improve.


    Who could have anticipated a reversal of fortune when all seemed lost? Losing the position of Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau, there was a chance to obtain the position of Deputy Minister in the Political Department?!


    Wasn''t the Political Department much more desirable than the Public Security Bureau?!


    However, even though he was thrilled inside, Qiu Tu knew better than to celebrate too soon.


    Thus, he inquired, "But... isn''t the appointment of a Deputy Division Chief in the bureau subject to the Bureau Chief''s consent?"


    Qiu Tu spoke carefully, "Director Yan, due to Minister Jia''s incident, might have some objections to me. So... he''s very likely to refuse."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Jiancha laughed and looked at Tang Feifei, "Then it depends on your and Director Tang''s ability."


    "I can only say, I will do my utmost to fight for this opportunity for you."


    "If Director Yan is adamantly opposed, we indeed do not have that much clout. But if he is simply not opposed... even without his support, this matter should still be achievable..."


    -------


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 Chapter 180 There is no such thing as a free favor (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu pondered. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.''So, if I want to get promoted, do I need to deceive Yan Chen now?''


    But...this was quite a bit earlier than the timing he had planned.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but consider if there were other methods.


    After a moment, he raised his head, looked at Tang Jiancha, and asked, "Tang Jiancha, you mean as long as the Bureau Chief doesn''t object, it''ll be fine, right?"


    "So, whether he is willingly non-oppositional or compelled by the situation..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s remark, a look of satisfaction appeared on Tang Jiancha''s face, "Yes."


    It was as if he had been reminding Qiu Tu all along.


    However, after saying this, he also reminded, "But you need to understand, as a deputy division chief, if you can''t get the Bureau Chief''s support."


    "Then you may very well be limited to working within the narrow confines of your existing authority."


    "Moreover, you may face difficulties from above and be unable to command your subordinates."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He truly didn''t care about this.


    Setting aside the fact that his desire for a promotion was to enhance his own strength, to see how his Cataclysmic ability would change after advancing to Second Order, even if it weren''t for the increase in strength, he wasn''t worried about the power he would hold after his promotion.


    After all, the nominal source of power comes from the upper echelons, but its essence comes from the lower ranks.


    With a loyal direct line of several dozen whose loyalty exceeded 80, including a deputy staff chief, two first-level detectives, and numerous veteran investigators (second-class investigators), Qiu Tu could already bypass permissions to do many things.


    Furthermore, at the Investigation Bureau''s high-level meetings, he had two allies in Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai.


    At the higher levels of Xinjie City''s Municipal Committee, there were two bigshots who appreciated him and were extending olive branches: Dai Yukang from the Security Department and Commissioner Jiang.


    With connections at all three levels ¨C upper, middle, and lower ¨C Qiu Tu was truly becoming well-feathered and hard to cordon off.


    This was also the reason why he had just inquired whether it was possible to compel Yan Chen to "not oppose" under certain circumstances.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu, sure of his approach, once again thanked the recently helpful Tang Jiancha, "Thank you, Tang Jiancha. I understand now."


    And so, a simple case analysis meeting quickly concluded.


    Although Qiu Tu provided many clues and details, there was still no direct evidence.


    And given the sensitivity of Jia Shu''s identity, the case would be dragged on for a few more days before reaching a result.


    However, everyone present actually understood that the case was highly likely to end with this outcome.


    This was not only the real truth of the case, but also... the best result of compromises from all sides.


    As a result, Qiu Tu resolved his grave threat and would be promoted one level; Tang Feifei eliminated one of Yan Chen''s core allies, preventing herself from becoming more passive; the Disciplinary Department cracked the case; and even... Jia Shu didn''t suffer much, needing only to lie low for a year or two before he could quickly make a comeback...


    Such an outcome, even if the people behind Jia Shu knew, they probably wouldn''t stir up additional trouble.


    Politics is, after all, the art of compromise...


    After sending off the three supervisors from the Disciplinary Department, Tang Feifei closed the door to her office and analyzed to Qiu Tu, "This is probably the fallback Jia Shu had prepared for himself all along."


    "He hasn''t crossed that red line in the past few months, precisely to avoid being unable to recover if investigated."


    Qiu Tu nodded and commented, "He''s very cunning. More cunning than most¡­"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s assessment, Tang Feifei smiled, squinted her eyes, and looked at him, "But you''re also not simple, right?"


    Tang Feifei, walking back to her desk with her long legs, sat down and said, "Tell me, do you have any other plans?"


    "Based on my understanding of you, you''re not the kind of person who really harbors justice or fairness."


    At her words, Qiu Tu pretended to be surprised and said, "Feifei, I didn''t expect you to have such a big misunderstanding about me?!"


    After speaking, he couldn''t help but ask, "So what image do I have in your heart?"


    With narrowed eyes and a predatory gaze, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu, "A bull, seemingly full of inexhaustible energy."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    That''s what you call spending money for power.


    Strangely, Qiu Tu felt that he had recently provoked Tang Feifei a little too much, that it was somewhat dangerous.


    The scariest thing isn''t putting on airs; it''s realizing you''re actually a bit inadequate after doing so...


    ''Seems like I need to get promoted soon, to boost my strength and stamina, otherwise I won''t be able to withstand Tang Feifei''s draining even a few times...''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu swiftly changed the subject. "Tang Jiancha seems quite good to me," he said.


    "Although at first his attitude toward us was somewhat indifferent, later on, whether it was his advice or support, it showed that he''s a decent person."


    Tang Feifei''s eyes smiled into crescents¡ªthis woman, an ice queen in front of others, was remarkably expressive in front of Qiu Tu.


    "He is my maternal uncle," she revealed.


    Qiu Tu''s face showed understanding, yet he wasn''t surprised.


    In this world, there is no such thing as unreasonable "hatred," nor is there unreasonable "love."


    The moment Qiu Tu noticed Tang Jiancha''s lukewarm attitude toward him and Tang Feifei, he felt something was off.


    Latterly, after learning of his surname, Qiu Tu had a hunch. This was why he dared to make a move to test the waters.


    As for the end... when Tang Jiancha suddenly prepared to lift Qiu Tu up the ranks, even giving him deep advice under the guise of casual conversation, Qiu Tu completely saw through the other party''s identity.


    After all, he wasn''t a succubus who could make a stranger fall in love with him at first sight and treat him as if he were a junior.


    Thus, there was only one explanation: Tang Jiancha was a relative of Tang Feifei, and might even be aware of the special relationship between him and Tang Feifei...


    That could explain the other party''s change in attitude.


    "Damn it... It seems no matter what world one is in, having connections is essential."


    "Fortunately... I''m also basking in the light now."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had just verified his guess, got up with composure and bid farewell to Tang Feifei, "Well, Bureau Chief, I should get back to work."


    "Even though Jia Shu has been captured, the case isn''t settled yet."


    "If I want Yan Chen not to oppose my promotion, I still need to do some other work."


    Tang Feifei watched Qiu Tu with a smile, pleased that he had guessed Tang Jiancha''s identity early on.


    Partners could only reassure you if they were smart enough.


    However, Tang Feifei was quite curious about how Qiu Tu would get Yan Chen to not oppose his promotion, so she couldn''t help but ask, "Do you have a plan?"


    Qiu Tu pointed at his head and confidently said, "I''ve thought it all through already."


    After speaking, he smiled brilliantly and turned away with flair.


    It had to be said, the already handsome him, clad in his black uniform and boots, enhanced by his confident speech, instantly maxed out his sex appeal.


    Tang Feifei watched his retreating figure like a female leopard eyeing its prey, her eyes narrowed slightly, and her heart raced with a "thump thump"...


    Wasn''t this much more fun than Liu Fuping''s soft and coquettish charms?


    ...


    After leaving Tang Feifei''s office, Qiu Tu strode towards the elevator.


    The reporting hour must have passed. There were fewer division chiefs and staff waiting in the corridor, which meant fewer odd looks for Qiu Tu.


    However, he believed it wouldn''t take long for the news of Qiu Tu siding with Tang Feifei to spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    This was exactly what Qiu Tu wanted.


    The harder the pressure now, the higher the rebound later.


    As Qiu Tu was analyzing the situation, Secretary Bai happened to bring a division chief into Yan Chen''s office and then came out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu waiting for the elevator, Secretary Bai looked his way.


    Qiu Tu felt the gaze and looked up.


    Their eyes met across the corridor, and even though nothing was said, there was an unspoken understanding between them.


    "Ding."


    The elevator arrived.


    Qiu Tu took his gaze back and stepped into the elevator.


    As the elevator doors closed, Qiu Tu faintly heard someone brown-nosing Secretary Bai, bad-mouthing him.


    "Secretary Bai, don''t be angry. That kind of thankless wolf, he''ll fall sooner or later. Heh heh."


    "By the way, Secretary Bai, our Public Security Office''s equipment has always been lacking. We''ve applied to Chief Huang several times, but he just won''t approve."


    "Secretary Bai, look, could you see if you can... approve it."


    Secretary Bai''s smile was radiant, "Director Tian, you have to understand, some things aren''t approved for a reason."


    "Did you say something wrong and offend Chief Huang?"


    He patted the director on the shoulder with an insinuating tone, "There are so many secrets in the Bureau, sometimes it''s very important to keep your mouth shut. Perhaps a single sentence has offended someone."


    With that, he turned and returned to his office.


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, that plump-faced director looked bewildered, "No way. I hardly ever spoke with Chief Huang. How could I have offended him..."


    Muttering to himself for a moment, the director saw Secretary Bai leave and hurried after him, "Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai, let''s talk more, just a bit more..."


    The elevator doors slowly closed. Qiu Tu''s lips turned up slightly... Old Bai was still Old Bai. Discover hidden stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    Taking the elevator back down to the second floor''s Public Security Bureau, Qiu Tu walked toward the investigation group''s office, ready to have a word with Commissioner Jiang''s "liaison," Liu Fuping.


    In Xinjie City, the only ones who could make Yan Chen compromise were his fellow Three Giants, Commissioner Jiang and General Ye.


    Qiu Tu had already given Commissioner Jiang such a big gift previously, and now it was time to get some "compensation" in return.


    Besides, this would also help strengthen their relationship.


    To quickly increase someone''s favor, you should never just give unilaterally, but also ask for something from time to time.


    In fact, most of the time, "asking" could deepen a relationship more than "giving."


    Moreover, to thoroughly deal with Jia Shu, Qiu Tu needed Liu Fuping''s help...


    --------


    3 chapters, 10,000 words, ha. I''ve been doing 10,000 words a day for 26 consecutive days, many authors promise monthly ticket bonuses for updates but don''t update as much as me, so I beg for your Monthly Ticket! Thanks!

 Chapter 182 Shen Lingshuang: You Sold Your Body (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing the girl''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then closed the door and continued to ask, "What are you doing?"Shen Lingshuang said with a giggly smile, "I got two pieces of rather interesting Cataclysmic Material at the black market yesterday."


    "I figured I could make Cataclysmic Treasures out of them."


    "So, today I went and got a workbench for crafting Cataclysmic Treasures, thinking I''d give it a try."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback and said with a hint of surprise, "You know how to craft Cataclysmic Treasures?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang suddenly became proud.


    She hopped down from the workbench, tilted her head, hands on hips, and proclaimed with pride,


    "This young lady has always been versatile~~ Fortune-telling, face-reading, authentication, alchemy, beast taming, treasure crafting! There''s nothing I can''t do, nothing I don''t know~~"


    "Truly, as they say, ''In the Jianghu, having many skills does not weigh you down.''~~"


    Qiu Tu watched her cute appearance and laughed so hard that he couldn''t keep his mouth straight.


    Leaving aside whether Shen Lingshuang really knew how to craft Cataclysmic Treasures, just from the emotional value she provided, Qiu Tu felt it was worth it.


    After several exhausting days and a few life-and-death battles, seeing Shen Lingshuang seemed to lessen his fatigue quite a bit.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu affirmed his thoughts and said, "Alright then. Since you want to experiment with something new, I''ll definitely support you all the way."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu thought for a moment, then took out a few pieces of Cataclysmic Material that he had obtained from the [Crisis Treasure Box] and handed them to Shen Lingshuang.


    Taking the Cataclysmic Materials in hand, Shen Lingshuang was obviously surprised.


    She exclaimed, "Memory Clay? Behemoth Ashes? Nameless Stele Powder?"


    "Where did you get all these great items?"


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang accurately identify the various materials for crafting Cataclysmic Treasures, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but give her a second look.


    Leaving aside whether Shen Lingshuang could make something worthwhile, just from her ability to identify these materials, Qiu Tu could be sure that Shen Lingshuang had truly studied the subject.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu casually said, "I bought them on the fly while on a mission."


    Shen Lingshuang was obviously skeptical, "Let''s not talk about the other things, just the ''Memory Clay'', that''s a Cataclysmic Material that''s hard to come by even in Sanctuaries, and you were able to buy it just like that in the Planning Area?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but remember how ''Crisis Intuition'' had introduced Memory Clay.


    In his memory, ''Crisis Intuition'' had described it as "precious."


    Moreover, he remembered that this particular Cataclysmic Material could be used in a wide variety of Cataclysmic treasures, indicating its broad usage.


    So, it made sense that even Sanctuaries found it scarce.


    However, although Qiu Tu had gained a direct understanding of the value of Memory Clay, he did not change his original statement.


    Even more, he said with a smile, "Just because it can''t be bought in Sanctuaries doesn''t mean it can''t be found in the Planning Area, right?"


    "Isn''t the Planning Area there to collect resources for the Sanctuaries?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang thought for a moment and then, with a cute nod, said, "You make sense."


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu followed up, "Besides, buying a few pieces of Cataclysmic Material is nothing. I''m even planning to buy a villa."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s doe-like eyes suddenly widened. She looked at Qiu Tu in amazement and exclaimed, "Qiu Tu, have you struck it rich?!"


    As she spoke, Shen Lingshuang reflexively glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulets.


    Last time they met, Shen Lingshuang did not pay attention to Qiu Tu''s epaulet.


    Now, taking a closer look, she was surprised to find that Qiu Tu had already been promoted to Principal Staff!


    She remembered that when she first met Qiu Tu, he seemed to have just been promoted to First Level Detective!


    How had he managed to jump two ranks in just half a month?


    So, she "dada dada" ran over, looked up, her deer-like eyes adorably fixed on Qiu Tu, and exclaimed in surprise, "How did you get promoted to section chief?"


    "Your promotion speed is too fast!"


    Perhaps because he felt relaxed in front of Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Section chief? In a couple of days, I''ll be promoted to Deputy Division Chief, all right."


    This time, Shen Lingshuang''s mouth was completely agape.


    She said, "Your promotion is way too fast!"


    She looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion, then pursed her lips and said, "You haven''t made any deals with the higher-ups at the Investigation Bureau, have you?"


    As she spoke, she propped up her little chin, walked along, and analyzed with pouting lips, "To make a deal, there must be give and take." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You got a promotion, so... what did you offer?"


    She turned to Qiu Tu, asking suspiciously, "Your soul? Or maybe chastity?"


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Before Qiu Tu could speak, Shen Lingshuang hummed with her lips pursed and shook her head, "Definitely not the soul. Your soul is pretty filthy to begin with, probably not worth much. So, it must be chastity, right?"


    As she said this, Shen Lingshuang covered her mouth, her watery eyes wide with horror as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Oh my god. Qiu Tu. You actually slept with your boss!"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Honestly, in that moment, Qiu Tu felt utterly dizzy with Shen Lingshuang''s confusing thoughts!


    How on earth did this girl go through a bunch of messy reasoning to reach a correct conclusion?!


    Ptui! Not right! He definitely hadn''t been promoted for sleeping with his boss!


    He earned it through his own abilities!


    Qiu Tu was certain!


    Thus, he couldn''t be bothered to explain, and amidst Shen Lingshuang''s cries of alarm, he grabbed her waist, placed her on his lap, and started smacking her cute little butt, "pap pap pap!"


    A masochist needs to be taught in a masochist''s way!


    As expected... after a light spanking, Shen Lingshuang instantly became obedient.


    Her face flushed red, she lay on Qiu Tu''s legs, rubbing back and forth, looking up at him with misty eyes... like a greedy little kitten.


    Qiu Tu found himself tempted by her gaze, but he knew that now was not the time for such things.


    After all, Shen Lingshuang was right by his side, available for him whenever he wanted.


    At present, the most important thing was to properly arrange their lives together.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu ignored Shen Lingshuang, whose eyes were nearly turning into threads, handed over the Cataclysmic Material to her, and went out to make a phone call...


    This time, Qiu Tu called Qin Shuman.


    As Qiu Tu''s most important partner, whenever he wanted to do something pivotal, Qin Shuman was always the first person he thought of...


    Qin Shuman had been obviously busy these past couple of days, so it took Qiu Tu a full ten or more seconds to finally get her to pick up the phone.


    On the other end of the line, Qin Shuman''s voice sounded a bit weary, "Hello? Qiu Tu. What''s up?"


    Instead of getting straight to the matter at hand, Qiu Tu first expressed his concern, "Are you okay? You sound very tired."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman on the other end of the line raised her hand and rubbed her temples.


    She lifted her head and glanced at the clock on the dim office wall, only then realizing that it was already 7 p.m.


    She got up, made herself a cup of coffee, and walked to the window before replying to Qiu Tu, "Ah... I am a bit worn out lately."


    She said, "Half a year ago, an abnormal storm from the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' descended upon the Disaster Zone located between Xinjie City and Eastern City."


    "At that time, several surrounding cities quietly prepared their defenses. It wasn''t until about a month and a half ago that the storm gradually dissipated."


    "We thought that was the end of it."


    "But who would have expected that half a month ago, experts discovered that the storm from the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' seemed to have changed the landscape of reality."


    "A Moonlight Lake may be forming..."


    "Moonlight Lake?" Qiu Tu asked somewhat curiously, "What''s that?"


    Qin Shuman explained, "It''s a lake formed by the accumulation of the Cataclysmic Material ''Tears of Moonlight.''"


    "According to experts'' estimates, this newly formed Moonlight Lake could produce about 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight..."


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu was truly startled.


    The Tears of Moonlight were not unfamiliar to him.


    Although it wasn''t a precious Cataclysmic Material, it was an ingredient for producing the "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion."


    It was with the Tears of Moonlight and Aurora Stone that Shen Lingshuang managed to craft the first batch of two bottles of Cataclysmic Potion for him.


    Although Qiu Tu did not know the exact weight of a bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, he estimated it shouldn''t exceed 20g.


    A bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, using 20g of Tears of Moonlight.


    And with 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, that''s enough to create 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion!


    What an immense interest that represented!


    So, Qiu Tu didn''t even need Qin Shuman to explain further to understand why she had been so tired these past few days.


    As the head of the intelligence department in the Security Department, Qin Shuman''s most important task at present must be to ascertain the actual formation time of this Moonlight Lake... and to figure out the powerful interests lurking behind this Moonlight Lake.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s eyes suddenly flashed, recalling some Crisis Warnings he received when he had just arrived in this world.


    At that time, his "Crisis Intuition" alerted him that Yan Chen was embroiled in a huge storm and temporarily unable to spare any attention for himself. (Chapters 14 and 19)


    Based on the timeline, if he wasn''t wrong... it should be related to that Moonlight Lake, right?


    After all, as one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, only a sudden incident representing massive interests could have caused Yan Chen to be so busy and in such disarray.


    With some quick deductions made in his mind, Qiu Tu came back to the conversation and began to comfort Qin Shuman, "Such enormous interests indeed tend to attract all kinds of petty criminals."


    "Being in charge of intelligence for the Security Department, you''re bound to be busier for sure."


    "But take care of yourself and don''t overwork to the point of exhaustion."


    Heeding Qiu Tu''s heartfelt concern, Qin Shuman standing by the window curled her lips into a faint smile.


    She took a sip of coffee, refreshed herself, and then asked proactively, "You called me, so there must be something important, right?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s inquiry, Qiu Tu then remembered the purpose of his call that night.


    Though he did not wish to add to Qin Shuman''s workload on the other side of the line, Qiu Tu indeed lacked other reliable channels at the moment.


    So, he hummed in agreement and said, "I want to buy a villa with a good location and comprehensive security. Preferably... anonymously." Your journey continues with My Virtual Library Empire


    Being the seasoned secret agent she was, Qin Shuman immediately responded to his statement, "Are you being targeted?"


    "Evil God? Or United Front?"


    Qiu Tu gave a wry smile, "Both."


    Qiu Tu''s intelligence capabilities had been verified multiple times, so Qin Shuman immediately fell into thought.


    After a moment, she said, "No problem. I''ll have Lin Zuo take care of it for you."


    "I guarantee no one will be able to trace it. And... it should be very safe."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "Where?"


    On the other end of the line, Qin Shuman downed her coffee in one go, her eyes resolute, and declared crisply, "Longshan Road."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback at the mention.


    Longshan Road?


    Qiu Tu was no stranger to Longshan Road.


    It was the largest luxury villa area in Xinjie City, bar none.


    Those who lived there were all prominent figures of Xinjie City before its establishment.


    They included powerful clans second only to the Qin Family, wealthy businessmen involved in multiple industries, and gang leaders with tens of thousands of disciples.


    Even though these magnates gradually lost their grip with the founding of Xinjie City, Longshan Road still maintained a pivotal position within the entire city.


    Moreover, and more importantly, one of Qiu Tu''s key partners, Fang Ming, resided there...


    Recalling the stringent security and armed patrols he witnessed last time he visited Fang Ming, Qiu Tu felt reassured.


    If he moved there, even if the United Front sent two or three squads, they would probably not be able to breach the area in a short time.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu responded with a thanks, "Thank you, Shuman."


    Qin Shuman laughed, "There''s no need for formalities between us."


    Afterward, the two of them chatted briefly before hanging up the phone.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu, standing in the dirty and cluttered corridor, took a deep breath.


    He looked out into the night at the faint drizzle and secretly pondered: The crisis from the United Front should be temporarily avoidable...


    But... how to get through the crisis posed by the Evil God Lariro?


    Based on the timeline, she could only arrive either tonight or tomorrow night.


    How should he prepare himself to face it...


    -----


    Still 10,000 words for 3 chapters. The third chapter will be updated around 20:00. Love you guys~

 Chapter 183 Evil God: Worship Me! (10,000 words subscribe!)

    Facing Larilo, the Evil God, Qiu Tu always lacked confidence deep down.After all, compared to tangible people, Larilo was like a ghost.


    Qiu Tu didn''t know how to harm her, how to kill her, or even... where she was.


    Qiu Tu only knew that she had used the female body cloned by Old Master Qin to come to the real world; he only knew that she could Enter Dream at night and could be contacted with ancient coins during the day.


    But beyond that... he knew nothing.


    ''How exactly does the Sanctuary deal with an Evil God?''


    ''Facing such a pervasive enemy, how do the higher-ups of the Sanctuary prepare?''


    Thinking quietly for a while, Qiu Tu suppressed the thick anxiety in his heart, then made several phone calls.


    After everything was arranged, he returned to his room.


    ''No matter what, first make enough preparations, then play it by ear¡­'' Experience more tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    ''At least this time, I''m not completely in the dark about her.''


    ''Moreover, if she is a living being, she must have her own desires. So¡­ maybe, I can apply the same methods I use against people to her?''


    Back in the room, Shen Lingshuang was once again holding a large mallet, banging on the workbench.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and shook his head, saying, "Stop banging. The neighbors are going to complain soon."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes widened, "Who dares to complain!?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With one hand on her hip and the other hoisting the hammer, she warned with fierce cuteness, "If anyone dares to complain! I''ll, I''ll¡­!"


    Qiu Tu asked, "You''ll do what?"


    Shen Lingshuang squeezed out a cute smile and pulled out a handful of peanuts from her pocket, "I''ll invite them to eat peanuts~~ and ask them to be more understanding. Hehe."


    "Hahaha." Qiu Tu was amused by Shen Lingshuang''s half-tough, half-timid demeanor.


    He walked over, took the mallet from Shen Lingshuang''s hand, and said, "I''ve already asked a friend to help us find a new place to live."


    "We should have one by tomorrow."


    "Then, we can move to our new house tomorrow."


    The emphasis in Qiu Tu''s statement was on "new house," but Shen Lingshuang was keyed into "us."


    Thus, her eyes lit up slightly, "Our new house?!"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Yes."


    He explained, "Recently, I''ve made many enemies. Some might seek revenge."


    "Plus, now that Old Alley Street has developed, too many people come and go, and it''s a mix of good and bad."


    "So, we should move to a safer place to live."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang nodded her head cutely, filled with longing, "In our new house, can I have my own bedroom?"


    Qiu Tu heard her and shook his head, "That won''t be possible."


    Shen Lingshuang''s head drooped immediately, a bit disappointed.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Because I can''t fall asleep at night now without holding you."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s face flushed red. Steam practically began to rise from her head.


    Qiu Tu watched the girl blush, then added, "So, although you can''t have your own bedroom, you can decorate any other room in the house as you wish. You can also choose one to be your Alchemy Room or workshop."


    Shen Lingshuang looked up, tilting her head, "Really, truly O.o?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu nod, Shen Lingshuang excitedly jumped onto him, overjoyed, "Yay! Qiu Tu, you''re not that bad after all!"


    Supporting Shen Lingshuang''s perky backside, and seeing her happy demeanor, Qiu Tu chuckled and shook his head: still such a kid, huh...


    He wondered why her parents would let such a young, cute girl wander the Cataclysmic world alone¡­


    ...


    Perhaps because they were moving to a new house tomorrow, Shen Lingshuang was exceptionally excited.


    She stopped hammering and started packing her belongings instead.


    The Cataclysmic Potions had to be taken; Cataclysmic Materials had to be taken; the workbench had to be taken; even some pots and pans, as well as rice, flour, oil, and salt, had to be taken.


    Watching her pack and mutter about what else she might have forgotten, Qiu Tu sitting on the sofa was a bit speechless.


    He said, "Anything you need can be bought once we get to the new place."


    "That rice and flour aren''t expensive. They''re heavy to carry. There''s no need to take them."


    Shen Lingshuang rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, mumbling, "Such a rich young master, never managed a household."


    "Those were bought with hard-earned Copper Yuan. How can we waste them?"


    Qiu Tu suggested, "We could give them to the neighbors, then."


    Shen Lingshuang paused, still shaking her head, and continued packing, "Better not. I picked these out meticulously, I can''t bear to part with them..."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang''s stingy behavior, Qiu Tu found it quite amusing.


    This girl could not only help her neighbors make money but was also nit-picky when it came to buying and giving things away.


    What kind of living environment had shaped such a girl?


    Just like that, Shen Lingshuang continued to tidy up until late into the night before finally finishing, and then the two of them washed up a bit and went to bed.


    Perhaps because she was a bit excited, Shen Lingshuang lay in Qiu Tu''s arms, chattering non-stop with her little mouth going "pah pah pah."


    Unable to take it anymore, Qiu Tu covered her mouth and physically silenced her, at last putting a stop to her ceaseless desire to communicate.


    In this manner, while blocking Shen Lingshuang''s mouth and gently patting her back, it took Qiu Tu a whole half-hour to finally put the girl to deep sleep.


    And after Shen Lingshuang fell asleep, Qiu Tu got up, looked at her for a moment, and then headed to the neighboring room.


    In the neighboring room, Sister Xin was already waiting. Also there were Ah-Tai, Eagle, and both Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng who had finished the celebration feast.


    Entering the room, Qiu Tu said to Sister Xin, "Sister Xin, I''ll have to trouble you to take care of Ling Shuang tonight too."


    Sister Xin said cheerfully, "No problem, no problem. Little sister Ling Shuang has been a big help to us lately; it''s only right that I take care of her."


    After speaking, she gestured towards her bed and said, "I''ll go over there now, make yourself at home, feel free."


    Qiu Tu nodded his head, watching Sister Xin leave his room for her own.


    Seeing this, Ah-Tai scratched his head, saying naively, "Brother Tu, you''re being overly cautious."


    "Even if United Front really planned to attack tonight, we''ll make sure Ling Shuang is safe."


    "You should just focus on dealing with the Evil God."


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "You don''t understand. There''s no cure for regret in this world."


    "We''ll be moving tomorrow, so tonight is the only night something could possibly go wrong."


    "Although it''s very unlikely that United Front knows about it, I don''t want to regret anything because of a slight oversight."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu also turned to Ah-Tai and Eagle, "Besides, tell the brothers to be more cautious these days."


    "Try to move in groups as much as possible, and don''t give United Front any openings."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ah-Tai and Eagle immediately became serious and nodded.


    After arranging for Ah-Tai and Eagle to stand guard outside in the corridor, Qiu Tu lay down on Sister Xin''s bed, ready to sleep.


    As for Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, of course, they were staying by his side.


    The two had once undergone special training with the Security Department; they knew how to pick up on Qiu Tu''s warnings in dreams and how to wake him.


    Therefore, with Liu Fuping inconvenient to show up, having the two of them come over to stay the night was the best choice.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gave a few more instructions to the two, and then lay down on the bed, falling into a deep sleep.....


    He didn''t know how long he had slept, maybe ten minutes, maybe an hour....


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu felt as though he was groggy.


    A woman''s voice was gently calling in his ear, "Qiu Tu.... Qiu Tu...."


    Hearing that familiar voice, Qiu Tu wanted to open his eyes, but found that he seemed unable to move.


    His muddled mind couldn''t quite figure out what was happening.


    He had a keen feeling something was wrong, yet he didn''t know what exactly it was....


    And it was then.


    That woman''s whisper came to his ears again, "Qiu Tu... what do you desire?"


    Qiu Tu mumbled, "Desire what....?"


    "I desire... power, money, women."


    The woman chuckled lightly, "Such vulgar yet true desires."


    "But that''s fine. I can give you everything you want."


    Still in a daze, Qiu Tu seemed to retain a shred of reason, "Why would you give me everything I want?"


    The woman replied, "Because... I am an omnipotent God."


    "Just worship me, become my follower, and you can fulfill all your wishes."


    "Power, money, women...."


    "I can make you the dictator of the Sanctuary."


    "Give you endless wealth."


    "Select for you, train all the women that meet your heart''s desire...."


    -----


    Three updates and 10,000 words haha. Continuing with the daily 10,000 words tonight. Love you guys!

 Chapter 184 Anti-Deceiving the Heretic Goddess Girl (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing the woman''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression revealed a hint of longing, as if he were truly enticed by what the woman said.The woman continued to increase her temptation.


    She whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Imagine that scene..."


    "You stand at the pinnacle of the world, with all humanity groveling at your feet..."


    "You can grant life to whomever you wish, and death to anyone at your whim..."


    "You can possess infinite wealth, you can have countless beauties..."


    "You can fulfill all your desires..."


    "Indulge in pleasures you have never experienced before..."


    A complex expression woven from struggle and desire began to appear on Qiu Tu''s face....


    The woman murmured softly, like a songstress serenading, "What are you waiting for? What are you hesitating about?"


    Qiu Tu, "Can... Can I really achieve anything I desire?"


    The woman chuckled lightly, "Of course... as long as you pledge yourself to me."


    Qiu Tu, "Then... then can I make you serve me?"


    Woman: ???


    Qiu Tu, "I''ve had my fill of ordinary women, I want Evil Gods to grovel at my feet!"


    "I want those thousands of High Order Cataclysmic Creatures to become my servants..."


    "I want to be the supreme leader of the entire world!"


    Woman: ???


    Qiu Tu, "Can... can you fulfill my wish?"


    "Hehehehe..." The woman chuckled again, "When did you awaken?"


    While speaking, the fog suddenly enveloped everything, turning the whole world into a burst of pure white.


    And there lay Qiu Tu amidst the fog, while atop the divine throne sat a stunning woman with a tall figure and exquisite curves, looking down at Qiu Tu from above.


    Her breathtaking features were sharp and brilliant, possessing both Liu Fuping''s charm and Tang Feifei''s heroic air.


    A few strands of hair beside her ear added an extra touch of allure. A smile or a frown from her seemed capable of drawing one into oblivion....


    Qiu Tu slowly opened his eyes, his gaze lingered on the woman for a moment, then he asked in confusion, "Larilo?"


    The woman held her head high, nodding slightly.


    Qiu Tu was surprised, "Why have you changed your appearance?"


    Larilo chuckled lightly, her eyes filled with amusement. She crossed her long legs and said, "Gods can freely change their appearances, can''t they?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, then tentatively asked, "So... do you think I would like this type of woman, which is why you''ve taken this form?"


    Although Larilo''s expression remained unchanged, Qiu Tu clearly caught a momentary pause in her smile.


    A slight sense of joy arose in Qiu Tu''s heart. Indeed... this Evil God was transforming her appearance and figure according to his preferences.


    The first time she met him, she must have mimicked Shen Lingshuang''s youthful charm?


    After discovering she hadn''t seduced him, this time she transformed into a combination of Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei.


    From this, it was clear that the Evil God truly understood him...


    Who could be her inside agent within the top ranks of the Investigation Bureau?


    While pondering in his mind, Qiu Tu also jokingly said with a smile, "It seems even an Evil God isn''t omnipotent."


    "She even has to try all sorts of ways to please an ordinary human."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s slightly mocking words, Larilo was unfazed.


    She smiled at Qiu Tu, twirling a lock of hair that fell by her face, and said, "Shouldn''t you feel honored?"


    "It signifies the importance God places on you."


    Qiu Tu nodded approvingly, "Indeed."


    "But the affair with Old Master Qin also taught me that the more an Evil God values you, the more likely there is something on you she desires."


    Larilo laughed, her chest heaving. She countered, "What do you think I want to take from you?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quipped, "Soul? Chastity?" S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hiss..." he feigned hesitation, "My soul has long been tainted and hardly of any interest to you."


    "So, you must have set your sights on my chastity, right?"


    "Giggle, giggle, giggle." Larilo laughed heartily.


    Her golden eyes filled with mirth as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, you really are amusing."


    "I''m not lying to you, consider it, becoming my follower."


    "Let us build a beautiful new world together."


    Seeing Larilo laughing so heartily, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face gradually faded.


    He spoke wistfully, "Your Highness Larilo, I recall you asking why I woke up."


    "Actually, your seduction and charm were very successful at first. I was nearly immersed in the dream you wove."


    "Power, money, beautiful women..."


    "Such tempting desires."


    At this point, Qiu Tu laughed self-deprecatingly, "But... what you might not have expected is that I''ve also been tempted in this way before."


    "And fell into that woven dream, but it was a real trap."


    "So, I know there is no such thing as a free lunch in this world."


    "I also know that pies don''t just fall from the sky."


    "And I understand the importance of controlling desires."


    "So, when the pie you were offering me became bigger and bigger, I suddenly woke up. No... I was startled awake."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused, then took the initiative to say, "So, don''t draw any more pies for me, let''s play something more interesting, shall we?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s proposition, Larilo''s expression became increasingly serious.


    She finally stopped treating Qiu Tu as a mere plaything, but rather as a partner to be considered.


    This made her already sharp and brilliant features appear even more noble and imposing.


    "Oh? More interesting? What could be more interesting?"


    Hearing Larilo''s question, Qiu Tu stood up from the ground and then looked up at Larilo, seated high on her divine throne, and said, "If I''m not mistaken, Jia Shu is not your follower. It''s his brother Jia Wei, right?"


    Larilo heard this, her expression unchanged, neither denying nor acknowledging.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Actually, ever since our last meeting, I''d already discovered your strategy to ''drive the wolf to devour the tiger.''"


    "But... I too wanted to devour Jia Shu, that terrifying tiger."


    "So, it seems we''re of one mind and naturally hit it off."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "But... what you might not know is that Jia Shu didn''t die, nor was he suspended."


    "He had already found a way out long before he prepared to assassinate me."


    "He not only contacted his backers at the top echelons of the Sanctuary in advance but also destroyed all evidence of his connection with you and his brother."


    "Even... he claimed that his attack on me was just due to a personal grudge."


    Larilo sneered upon hearing this, "Do you all believe that kind of explanation?"


    Qiu Tu shrugged, "Honestly, we don''t believe it. But... he is after all a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, not just any ordinary person."


    "Plus, with someone backing him, we need sufficient evidence to take him down. And now, it''s clear we don''t have that capability..."


    Upon hearing this, Larilo''s gaze visibly grew colder.


    She spoke indifferently, "Then what do you suggest?"


    Qiu Tu confidently replied, "Let''s collaborate. Let''s work together."


    Seeing that Larilo was unmoved, Qiu Tu took a step back, "I know you want to make me your follower."


    "But... honestly, Your Highness, I''m not familiar with you, and I know even less about your divine power."


    "Under such circumstances, how could I possibly become your devout follower?"


    "So, let''s start with collaboration, to build a connection between us."


    "After that, through gradually understanding, I will then decide whether to worship you."


    "Don''t you think such faith would be more sincere?"


    Seeing Larilo still unmoved, Qiu Tu laughed and retorted, "You... couldn''t possibly lack confidence in yourself, could you?"


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    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo finally reacted.


    She chuckled "Hehehe," and then said, "Me? Lacking confidence?"


    "Don''t joke with me."


    "I have unparalleled confidence in my own power and approach!"


    "Reproduction is the true path of this world!"


    After speaking, her golden eyes looked at Qiu Tu, and with a half-smile, she asked, "Tell me, how do you want to collaborate?"


    Seeing that Larilo had genuinely agreed to his request for collaboration, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief in his heart.


    Even after all this, it has come to this step, huh...


    Actually, ever since he saw the "Appreciation of the Evil God" Crisis Warning, Qiu Tu had a premonition:


    The disparity in status between him and Larilo was too great, and it would be difficult to outright reject Larilo while coming out unscathed.


    But... according to the "Crisis Intuition" prompt, if he really defected to Larilo''s camp, he would become a traitor and would sooner or later be caught by the Sanctuary.


    So, for the past couple of days, Qiu Tu had been pondering how to deal with this matter.


    Although he still didn''t have a foolproof plan to overcome this predicament up until now. But... today''s talk with Tang Jiancha about Jia Shu''s crimes gave him an idea.


    Jia Shu neither pledged allegiance to the Evil Gods nor betrayed the Sanctuary; he just made a brief collaboration with the Evil Gods for his own benefit.


    It could be because of the chaotic times or possibly because of his background, but such behavior, while treading the line, didn''t actually cross it.


    So, in the absence of a better choice, Qiu Tu simply decided to copy Jia Shu''s path.


    He would also engage in a simple collaboration with the Evil God but not pledge allegiance to any.


    That way, wouldn''t the crisis be averted at least for a short time?


    After all, Jia Shu had a backing, and so did he... Tang Feifei.


    If the day of disaster truly came, for her own happiness, Tang Feifei would probably find a way to pull some strings for him, right?


    Moreover, Qiu Tu had a resource that Jia Shu didn''t have ¨C the Security Department.


    Let''s not forget, Qiu Tu was holding a post in the Security Department, a special agency dealing with the affairs of the Evil Gods and Cataclysmics.


    If Qiu Tu were to make an undercover report in advance and hand it to Qin Shuman, to be produced when it''s time for retribution,


    That should minimize the impact of the event. It might even be far from the degree of dismissal...


    Having reviewed his own internal plan, Qiu Tu faced Larilo''s inquiry with even more confidence and composure.


    He said with a light smile, "Your Highness, all cooperation proceeds step by step."


    "Since our first collaboration began with getting rid of Jia Shu, why don''t we continue this partnership by eliminating Jia Shu as well?"


    Upon hearing this, the golden pupils of Larilo shone brightly, and her voice tinged with a hint of amusement, "Oh? And how do you propose we get rid of Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu found that Larilo was indeed hard to deal with. Every sentence she spoke seemed quite normal.


    But upon closer scrutiny, one would realize she was always vying for control over the topic of conversation.


    Yet, Qiu Tu definitely could not hand over this power to Larilo, so he smiled enigmatically, "I have a clever plan."


    "However, I need Your Highness to provide me with a few things."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo asked, "What help?"


    Qiu Tu smiled...


    For the next half-hour, Qiu Tu and Larilo discussed in detail what he needed.


    After listening, Larilo almost guessed Qiu Tu''s plan without needing his explanation.


    Her golden eyes looked at Qiu Tu with a hint of skepticism, and then she said, "Are you sure... this will work?"


    Qiu Tu shrugged, "How will we know if we don''t try?"


    "Plus... aside from this plan, I actually have another backup strategy."


    "It''s just, that might put me in a somewhat passive position."


    After hearing this, Larilo fell silent for two seconds, then finally chuckled and said, "Okay. I agree to your request."


    "Tomorrow, you will get what you want."


    Qiu Tu bowed slightly to Larilo, "I thank Your Highness."


    After bowing, Qiu Tu was ready to bid Larilo farewell and end their meeting for the evening.


    But just then, Larilo called out to Qiu Tu again, "Qiu Tu."


    ------


    Today is still 3 updates of 10k words each! The next chapter updates at 20:00!


    This month has already had continuous 10k updates for 28 days, with the last 3 days being double Monthly Tickets, asking for Monthly Tickets! Asking for Monthly Tickets! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 185 Heretic Goddess Girls Demand (10,000 words subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu heard this and looked up at her with a hint of confusion."In fact, cooperation isn''t limited to just one at a time, is it?" said Larilo with a calm gaze at Qiu Tu, her eyes narrowing into a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a "thud" in his heart, guessing what Larilo was thinking.


    Sure enough, Larilo rose from her divine seat and then smiled as she walked step by step toward Qiu Tu. "Moreover, if my cooperation with Jia Shu can''t even get Jia Shu punished..."


    "Then what makes me believe that cooperation with you will place any restrictions on you?"


    As she said this, she walked up to Qiu Tu, her tone gentle, "So, you also need to show some sincerity, to make me believe that you truly want to cooperate with me, and not just use me or stall for time..."


    "Don''t you think... Isn''t that right, my future Archbishop?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Archbishop, I might as well be the main character.


    Qiu Tu realized that this Heretic Goddess was truly adept at baiting with promises, one after another, leaving no chance to breathe.


    The only pity was that Qiu Tu had his fill of empty promises in his past life, and in this life, he truly couldn''t stomach anymore. So he wasn''t fooled.


    However, considering the current circumstances, although he wasn''t tempted himself, he still had to pretend to be interested, so he feigned sincerity and said, "Your Highness makes a good point. What would Your Highness like me to do to prove my sincerity?"


    Larilo clearly had her demands well thought out already, so she spoke indifferently, "A Moonlight Lake is about to emerge between Xinjie City and Eastern City."


    "I have calculated that I have a destined connection with that Moonlight Lake. It''s a key resource for my continued ascension."


    "However, that Moonlight Lake has already been defended by both cities, with three major institutions."


    "I need you to help me find out exactly when the Moonlight Lake will fully coalesce."


    "When the time comes, I will personally retrieve what is mine."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but be a little shocked.


    He had considered that Larilo''s great efforts to cause trouble in Xinjie City might be for some need.


    But... he never thought that what Larilo was after was the Moonlight Lake!


    That Moonlight Lake was rumored to be capable of refining 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, enough to make tens of thousands of Cataclysmic Awakening Potions¡ªan important strategic resource.


    ''This Heretic Goddess''s appetite is too great...'' he thought to himself, but Qiu Tu certainly couldn''t say that out loud.


    So after a brief contemplation, he smiled slightly and bowed, "As you wish..."


    No matter what, the priority was to deceive this Heretic Goddess first.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu was never afraid of someone with a big appetite. On the contrary, he liked such people the most.


    Because it meant they had desires, and desires could be exploited...


    Perhaps in time, he would even be able to use those desires to manipulate the Heretic Goddess.


    Meanwhile, seeing Qiu Tu agree so readily, Larilo, with a beaming smile, said, "My Archbishop is indeed decisive."


    "Then I''ll be waiting for your good news."


    "I know you won''t disappoint me."


    With that, Larilo paused, her face revealing a sly smile, "After all, you wouldn''t want to know the cost of disappointing me..."


    After speaking, she waved her hand, and at once, Qiu Tu felt darkness before his eyes, losing consciousness...


    He didn''t know how much time had passed. It could''ve been a minute, or maybe even more than an hour.


    "Huff!"


    Qiu Tu suddenly awoke from his sleep!


    His eyes wide open, he sat up abruptly on the bed.


    Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, who had been by his side the whole time, hurried over to him.


    Chen Feng, being more silent by nature, let Cao Dabiao ask with concern, "Brother Tu, are you okay?"


    Seeing their concerned faces, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then shook his head to reassure them, "I''m fine. I''m okay."


    After speaking, he asked, "How long did I sleep?"


    Chen Feng had apparently been keeping track of the time.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, he replied, "1 hour and 13 minutes."


    Qiu Tu upon hearing that, "Such a short time?"


    Truth to be told, Qiu Tu even felt the conversation with Larilo took more than an hour.


    ''It seems... perception of time becomes less acute in dreams?''


    While Qiu Tu was pondering the details of the dream, Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng exchanged glances, then also asked, "Brother Tu, have you already met with that Heretic Goddess?"


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and nodded.


    ```


    He might have resolved a concern. He leaned back on the headboard and said with a slight ease, "Yes, I''ve seen her."


    At his words, Cao Dabiao blinked, grinning as he said, "Sounds like... you''re in a pretty good mood? So, did you and her communicate smoothly?"


    What could Qiu Tu say?


    He could only respond, "It was passable."


    Though lacking enthusiasm, Cao Dabiao''s interest was piqued.


    He was clearly fascinated by the legendary Evil God and asked curiously, "Chief, what does the Evil God actually look like? Is she very beautiful?"


    Qiu Tu recalled for a moment, then commented, "How should I put it...


    "She seems to be able to change her appearance at will in dreams. She can become larger, smaller, turn into a young girl or a mature lady."


    "The only constant might be her aura."


    "Aura?" Cao Dabiao was curious, "What kind of aura?"


    Qiu Tu snorted, "What other aura could it be."


    "It''s intellectual without losing dignity, elegant without losing beauty, like Ouyang without its radical."


    Experience more tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    Cao Dabiao understood the first two phrases, but was puzzled by the last, "Ouyang without its radical? What does that mean?"


    At that moment, Chen Feng caught Qiu Tu''s riddle, and even with his reserved nature, couldn''t help but laugh. Then he commented, "It seems that Heretic Goddess is indeed not easy to deal with...


    Seeing Chen Feng had guessed the answer, Qiu Tu glanced at him with a smile, then he sighed deeply, "Indeed not easy to deal with..."


    With that, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but place his hands behind his head, reminiscing about the Moonlight Lake that was about to emerge, entangling the many forces within and outside Xinjie City...


    Since so many forces were concerned about the Moonlight Lake, could he take advantage of this resource and stir things up?


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was thinking this.


    The countdown hourglass in the upper left corner of his vision for "Appreciation of the Evil God" started to change slowly.


    Along with the change in the countdown hourglass, several new prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Congratulations on successfully overcoming the crisis of ''Appreciation of the Evil God''. You have not only earned the initial trust of the Evil God but also have not betrayed the human ranks."


    "However, the Evil God is not easily fooled. She has entrusted you with a task to verify your ''loyalty'': Acquire the actual time of concentration at Moonlight Lake."


    "You have only 4 days. If you cannot obtain this information within 4 days, maybe she will make you understand the price of playing with the Evil God!"


    As the prompts before his eyes ended, the countdown hourglass for "Appreciation of the Evil God" slowly transformed into a trembling little treasure chest.


    Then it moved to the right, alongside the Crisis Treasure Box obtained after passing "Jia Shu''s Assassination".


    Another countdown hourglass appeared and jumped next to the other two crisis hourglasses...


    "Promise of the Evil God (4 days)"


    "Revenge of the Linked Formation (8.5 days)"


    "Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)"


    ...


    A night without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu rose from his bed, embracing Shen Lingshuang.


    Although he had made a series of preparations the night before, things did not go as badly as he had anticipated.


    ¡ªOr rather, there were no United Front spies around him and Qin Shuman.


    The United Front probably didn''t know he would be moving today, so they missed their last chance to attack him last night.


    This let Qiu Tu breath a sigh of relief: he had too many enemies to face recently, he was too tired, he really didn''t have the energy to deal with the United Front anymore!


    After getting up in the morning and having breakfast with Shen Lingshuang, Lin Zuo''s call came in. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The content of the call was simple, just to inform Qiu Tu that the villa had been chosen and the movers had been arranged. He could move now.


    However, to avoid someone trailing Qiu Tu and discovering his new address, he suggested that Qiu Tu should not handle it personally.


    Qiu Tu happily agreed to this request, then called over Eagle and Ah-Kun, two trusted and cautious confidants, to oversee the entire moving process...


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he was going to meet Secretary Tao and have a talk with Commissioner Jiang about a business concerning his promotion...


    Driving his old and battered sedan, Qiu Tu headed towards the house opposite the Investigation Bureau.


    After driving for over twenty minutes, Qiu Tu finally arrived at the house where they had met last time.


    He circled around, parked the car at a distance, then walked through several alleys before entering the house.....


    ------


    Today is still 3 updates of 10,000 words each! Next chapter at 20:00! It''s been 28 consecutive days of reaching 10,000 words a day, the last 3 days, double Monthly Ticket time, begging for Monthly Tickets! Monthly Tickets! Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 186 108 Ways to Enhance Affection Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As soon as Qiu Tu walked into the courtyard, he heard a beautiful harmonica melody coming from inside the house.The sound was clear and melodious, like a mountain stream, twirling and dancing in the air. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At times it was light and brisk, like a spring breeze, with a touch of joy that was hard to detect; at other times deep and somber, like the night, filled with thoughts and stories.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but stop in his tracks and listen intently.


    In these troubled times, too many people have too many stories. Clearly, the woman inside was no different...


    After quietly listening for two or three minutes, when the piece ended, Qiu Tu clapped as he stepped inside.


    "I didn''t expect Secretary Tao to have harmonica skills. It seems that nobody who works as a secretary for the Commissioner is simple."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, Tao Yaoyao inside the house smiled and responded, "It''s just a little pastime of mine."


    "Compared to Chief Qiu... it''s nothing."


    During the conversation, she turned around to look at Qiu Tu.


    At the moment, Qiu Tu, who had just entered the room, happened to lay his eyes on her.


    It had to be said, this woman was indeed enchanting, with bold makeup and attire.


    A tight-fitted professional outfit outlined her curvaceous figure, the contours shaped by the clinging clothes as if hiding secrets and charm unknown to others, compelling one to unravel and explore.


    And the upward flick of her eyeliner, along with the deep red of her lips, added a touch of danger to the mystery.


    It was clear that the woman before him was no innocent, but a black widow who might take your life at any moment.


    Such a temperament and appearance, to be honest, were like the brightest spotlight in chaotic times, causing everyone''s gaze to converge on her involuntarily.


    It greedily attracted all covetous and lustful eyes.


    In such circumstances, this woman was still living well, and the fact that she was also skilled in instruments only further evidenced her extraordinary nature.


    ¡ª¡ªIn chaotic times, musical instruments are not something common people can come into contact with.


    While constructing a model of the woman before him in his mind, Qiu Tu also complimented as he walked into the inner room, "Being proficient in a musical instrument in such times is not something trivial."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "Besides, Secretary Tao, surely you''re proficient in more than just one instrument, right?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao wore a faint smile and frankly said, "Indeed, more than one. Harmonica, violin, harp, and even saxophone¡ªI know a thing or two about each."


    ''Certainly not an ordinary identity.''


    While continuing to sort through information in his mind, Qiu Tu praised, "Secretary Tao is truly talented."


    "I hope I''ll have the chance to listen to your performance someday."


    Tao Yaoyao''s eyes were seductive, but her tone of voice carried a prickliness.


    "Sure. As long as Chief Qiu becomes the Bureau Chief, I will surely come to play for you late at night."


    A statement that was dangerous yet aggressive.


    It was as if mocking Qiu Tu for not being qualified, while also giving him something to look forward to, mixed with the ambiguity of a late-night serenade...


    Dangerous and alluring.


    Qiu Tu found it quite interesting.


    He focused on Tao Yaoyao''s narrow, enchanting eyes and smoothly said, "Then it''s a deal."


    "When I do become the Bureau Chief, I''ll definitely give Secretary Tao a call."


    "At that time, you mustn''t reject my late-night invitation..."


    Tao Yaoyao had thought her reticent retort would make Qiu Tu back off, yet unexpectedly, he dared to climb even higher.


    This caused a dangerous gleam to flicker within her slightly narrowed eyes...


    Qiu Tu, with his keen perception, noticed the change in Tao Yaoyao''s eyes and immediately knew better than to push further; so, without waiting for her to counter, he decisively steered the conversation back on track.


    He said, "Secretary Tao, this meeting is to discuss an important matter."


    Caught off guard, Tao Yaoyao''s mouth opened slightly but she did not continue the previous topic, "Oh? What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu gestured toward a chair, taking the lead as if reversing the host-guest roles.


    Sitting down first, he continued, "These past couple of days, I believe Commissioner Jiang has seen my sincerity."


    "So, now it''s time for Commissioner Jiang to show his sincerity."


    With a simple gesture from Qiu Tu and his move to sit down first, he swiftly reclaimed control of the conversation.


    Secretary Tao glanced down at Qiu Tu, noticing she was standing while he was seated¡ªlike she was his subordinate or secretary.


    She chuckled lightly, "Heh..." and, unfazed, also took a seat.


    Then, she turned the tables, "What makes Chief Qiu think Commissioner Jiang needs to demonstrate his sincerity?"


    This remark seemed almost like she was ready to burn bridges after crossing, but Qiu Tu, as if he hadn''t heard, continued, "After what happened a couple of days ago, Jia Shu will no longer be able to serve as Head of the Political Department."


    "At that time, Director Yan is likely to choose from among the two deputy directors to fill the position. And I have my eyes on one of those deputy director positions."


    Pausing, Qiu Tu added, "This will require Commissioner Jiang''s help."


    Tao Yaoyao initially listened somewhat indifferently, but when she heard Qiu Tu wanted to be a deputy director, she was suddenly taken aback, "Deputy director?"


    She recalled Qiu Tu''s record and then said, "If I remember correctly, Chief Qiu, you''ve just been promoted recently."


    "Won''t it be a bit too much pressure to continue rising up now?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t explain; instead, he gave a mysterious smile, "Since I dare to make this request, I must be confident."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao''s brows slightly furrowed, revealing a measure of seriousness and focus.


    Her gaze fell on Qiu Tu, as if she wanted to see through the mystery he was selling...


    But Qiu Tu was now an Old Fox; how could he possibly reveal his emotions?


    Therefore, even after observing him for quite a while, she didn''t get any valuable clues.


    So, she could only subtly remind him, "Chief Qiu, you must realize that once the commissioner helps you at the Municipal Committee..."


    "Then... your relationship with the commissioner would be completely exposed."


    "Let''s not discuss whether your promotion will be successful or not, even if it is, Director Yan will see you as a thorn in his side."


    "At that time, you''ll likely find it very difficult to move within the Investigation Bureau."


    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s words, Qiu Tu smiled. He looked towards Tao Yaoyao''s enchanting eyes, and asked in return, "Is Secretary Tao worried about me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao''s expression froze.


    She was just about to retort.


    But Qiu Tu immediately took back his words, "However, isn''t Commissioner Jiang precisely looking for someone in the Investigation Bureau who can stand up against Director Yan?"


    "By stepping forward now and attracting Director Yan''s attention, I allow Commissioner Jiang to lay out his plans with ease. Isn''t that exactly what Commissioner Jiang desires?"


    "Whether I''m slapped to death by Yan Chen or I manage to secure my footing, it''s a no-lose situation for Commissioner Jiang."


    "As for my own life or death, how does that relate to you, Secretary Tao, or to Commissioner Jiang?"


    "To trade a dispensable piece for massive gains¡ªSecretary Tao, do you still need to inquire further about such a sure-win gamble?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao took a deep breath and reassessed Qiu Tu with her narrow eyes.


    Even though Tao Yaoyao always held herself in high regard, she had to admit that Qiu Tu had a unique charm:


    He always managed to grasp the essence of the matter and then employed his unique rhetoric to draw people into the scenario.


    That trait always lent him an irresistible allure, making one unwittingly captivated by his words.


    The problem was, even if one were to replay and analyze his logic afterward, one would find that he wasn''t just playing word games; he was truly stating the facts.


    ¡ªA fact that made one feel they had struck it rich.


    But... how could anyone sacrifice themselves just so others could profit?


    ''So... what does this man rely on to believe he can survive between two giants?''


    ''And why does he think he can vault to higher positions and become a vice director in a short time?''


    Perhaps because there were too many questions in her mind, Tao Yaoyao momentarily felt that Qiu Tu was shrouded in mystery, compelling her to unravel its secrets...


    Qiu Tu, keenly aware of the shift in Tao Yaoyao''s emotions, quietly curved his lips into a smile.


    "Emotional Fraud Manual" 108 Ways to Enhance Affinity No. 2: Women are to be attracted, not chased.


    Strength (wealth and power) coupled with mystery are indeed the most crucial charms for attracting women.


    Once a woman becomes curious about you, chances are she''ll soon fall into your trap...


    At this moment, perhaps sensing something amiss in her demeanor, Tao Yaoyao tensed up inside and started to reflect on her behavior.


    ''Am I being involuntarily drawn in, or have I fallen into a trap?''


    At that thought, Tao Yaoyao cast a thoughtful glance at Qiu Tu, feeling a bit uneasy.


    Her eyes narrowed slightly, she felt that this couldn''t go on.


    ''I must hit back. Otherwise, both my train of thought and the pace of the conversation will be thoroughly in his hands.''


    Thinking this, Tao Yaoyao''s eyes flickered, and suddenly she had an idea in mind.


    In the dark jungle, there are no kings who merely endure; to deter all beasts, one must showcase their might and not be underestimated!


    Therefore, she smiled and extended her hand, then said, "Chief Qiu makes a very good point."


    "Then, I will agree to this matter on behalf of Commissioner Jiang."


    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s words, Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed, his expression immediately turning grave.


    Tao Yaoyao, with her keen senses, caught that flicker of emotion, and with a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth, she reminded him,


    "Indeed, as the confidential secretary, I have the right to decide certain matters on behalf of the commissioner..."


    ------


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    And, we''re leading the 11th place by nearly 1000 tickets!


    This is all thanks to you! I''m on my knees thanking you!


    I will continue to work hard to pump out more chapters! Let''s work together to maintain our position in the top 10 of the Monthly Ticket!


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 Chapter 187 Someone Stealing the Credit! (10,000 Characters Appeal for Subscription)

    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s thinly veiled threat, a hint of amusement flickered through Qiu Tu''s eyes.Actually, Qiu Tu wasn''t the least surprised by the authority Tao Yaoyao possessed.


    Because, after the first encounter with Tao Yaoyao, Qiu Tu, wanting to know his friend as well as his foe, had already inquired about Tao Yaoyao''s identity and rank from Liu Fuping beforehand.


    According to Liu Fuping, being the confidential secretary to Commissioner Jiang, Tao Yaoyao''s rank was not low, the same as Qiu Tu''s, both were Principal Staff.


    Moreover, as the messenger for Commissioner Jiang to the outside world, her power and influence were exceedingly terrifying, far exceeding that of ordinary division heads like Qiu Tu.


    ¡ª¡ªWhether it was the various departments of City Hall, the various divisions of the Investigation Bureau, or the various units of the military, they all needed to give her face.


    If she called the high-level executives of the three major institutions, those executives would think very carefully about the implications of her words.


    After all, no one knew whether her words would represent Commissioner Jiang''s stance.


    This resulted in her being arguably the most powerful division head in the entire Xinjie City.


    She was acclaimed as the "Second Commissioner" of Xinjie City.


    This was also the reason she was so arrogant and overbearing.


    Because... she represented Commissioner Jiang on the outside.


    However, Tao Yaoyao might not know that... the reason Qiu Tu was teasing her today was precisely because of this identity of hers.


    Qiu Tu, who had once been a confidant of Yan Chen, knew how convenient it was to act under the cover of these big shots.


    He had already lost the halo of Yan Chen''s protection and had to keep a low profile for the time being.


    But if he could take down the woman before him, then through her unique status, he could quietly open up the situation again in the various departments of Xinjie City.


    This was a dark move that couldn''t be spoken to outsiders...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu continued to follow his own plan.


    He "Oh?" made a sound, feigned an expression of surprise, and then said, "I hadn''t realized Commissioner Jiang trusted Secretary Tao so much."


    "It seems I was too hasty just now."


    Seeing Tao Yaoyao''s expression slightly soften, Qiu Tu swiftly changed his tone, "However... I think Secretary Tao should still consult with Commissioner Jiang about this matter."


    "After all, this is a very important issue. If you overstep and agree on behalf of Commissioner Jiang and then there''s a problem, you won''t be able to bear the responsibility." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You!" Tao Yaoyao truly didn''t expect that, after revealing her "status," Qiu Tu would still dare to be so confrontational with her.


    No, it wasn''t confrontation, it was straightforward sarcastic ridicule of her pretentious behavior and overstepping her authority.


    This was a kind of grievance she had never experienced since coming to Xinjie City and becoming the confidential secretary to Commissioner Jiang.


    Thinking this, her eyes narrowed, and a dangerous glint flickered in her elongated eyes.


    But Qiu Tu acted as if he hadn''t noticed at all, looking at her calmly, without giving in.


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    Truth be told, it was only because Tao Yaoyao lacked propriety as a host and didn''t pour a cup of tea for Qiu Tu; otherwise, he would have definitely taken a couple of sips just to infuriate her.


    The atmosphere in the room quieted down for a moment.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds...


    Just as Qiu Tu began to worry he''d taken it too far, Tao Yaoyao''s face suddenly blossomed into a dangerous smile.


    Her upward-curved eyeliner seemed to dance as she reached into the deep cleavage at her chest to pull out a small, specially made communicator and then placed it suggestively in front of Qiu Tu...


    "Sure. Since Chief Qiu has requested it, I will certainly report to Commissioner Jiang."


    "When Commissioner Jiang makes a decision, I will take the initiative to contact you."


    As she said this, she paused, smiling, "However... I cannot guarantee when Commissioner Jiang will have the time to hear my report about this matter."


    Qiu Tu had already anticipated Tao Yaoyao''s direction of counter-attack, so he indifferently picked up the communicator from the table.


    The communicator was warm to the touch, as if carrying Tao Yaoyao''s body heat.


    Qiu Tu brought it to his nose and smelled it, detecting a faint scent of milk.


    The smile on Qiu Tu''s face deepened, "No problem. If Commissioner Jiang is not available, I will go to find him in person."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ambiguous yet measured response, Tao Yaoyao''s slanted eyes narrowed.


    She snorted lightly and then got up and left.


    The sound of her high heels striking the floor was like hasty drumbeats, each step revealing the displeasure of its owner.


    But to Qiu Tu, it seemed just right.


    The "Emotional Fraud Manual" outlines thirty-six strategies for dealing with women: [Stand Out From the Crowd].


    If a woman is naive, then take her to experience the world. If a woman has rich experience, then offer her the prosaic life.


    What a woman is accustomed to, she won''t find precious. It''s only when you present her with something she has never or seldom experienced that you will appear unique.


    So, when encountering a beauty, one must not become a fawning admirer; there are too many admirers around her already.


    And when meeting a woman like Tao Yaoyao, who isn''t short of flatterers, one must not indulge her...


    Of course, the premise is not to overdo it.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu silently recalled Tao Yaoyao''s personality traits from what he learned from Liu Fuping, as well as her expressions just now, and felt... there probably wouldn''t be a problem.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu calmly took out the specially made communicator Tao Yaoyao had given him.


    Turning it on, he checked it. Inside, there was just one number. It should be Tao Yaoyao''s.


    Qiu Tu then took out another two communicators and that ancient coin from his pocket.


    One man, four communication devices; it was quite something. Add to that his relationships with Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping...

 Chapter 187 Someone Stealing the Credit! (10,000 Characters Appeal for Subscription)_2

    ''Six-sided spy?''''Do I have a bit too many identities?''


    After silently mocking himself in his heart, Qiu Tu packed up the pile of communicators, stepped out of the residential house, got into his car, and drove to the Investigation Bureau''s office building.


    Upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau''s office building, Qiu Tu noticed many strange looks directed at him had increased.


    Qiu Tu found it a bit odd, but he didn''t pay it any mind¡ªafter all, once he returned to the investigative team, someone would naturally tell him the reason.


    As expected, once he got to the investigative team''s office, Cao Dabiao pulled Qiu Tu aside with an air of mystery and whispered, "Brother Tu, let me tell you. The candidate for the new Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau has already been decided."


    Qiu Tu was startled for a second, somewhat surprised, "That fast?"


    Cao Dabiao hurriedly nodded, "Exactly what I''m saying!"


    After that, he threw a new question at Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu, do you know who the new Deputy Division Chief candidate is?"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "Who is it?"


    Cao Dabiao said with an air of mystery, "Your former supervisor, the Interrogation Section Chief, Zheng Tao."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu fell into thought and soon felt it wasn''t surprising anymore. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Zheng Tao was always a confidant of Yan Chen, constantly buttering up the Bureau Chief with sycophantic praise.


    Add to that his actual ability to get things done; when the Public Security Bureau ended work at 6 pm, he could make the people in the Interrogation Section work until midnight.


    While this made the agents in the Interrogation Section miserable, it also earned him ample political achievements. Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire


    So, making him take over Qiu Tu''s promotion slot was actually reasonable and justifiable.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then said with a smile, "That''s pretty good. Looks like I should congratulate my old boss."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao became a little anxious and said, "Brother Tu... you still don''t understand."


    "For Zheng Tao to confirm his position within just one day and then immediately take office clearly exceeds common sense."


    "The Organizational Department must have received directives from the Bureau Chief, exercising special measures for special cases."


    "So, he must be targeting you!"


    Saying this, Cao Dabiao sneakily looked around, made sure no one was paying attention, and then continued in a lower voice, "And think about it, Brother Tu."


    "Why did the Bureau Chief appoint Zheng Tao as the Deputy Division Chief this time?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, prompting further, "Why?"


    Cao Dabiao lowered his voice and said, "Because he was once your supervisor. He naturally has a psychological advantage and can handle you more easily."


    "Plus, some members of the investigative team are from the Interrogation Section. They are your subordinates, but they were also subordinates to Zheng Tao."


    "If Zheng Tao calls them over for a bit of brainwashing, there''s no telling if some of them might waver in their loyalty."


    Qiu Tu looked at Cao Dabiao with a hint of surprise, not expecting Cao Dabiao to also have such insights.


    So, he encouraged Cao Dabiao by patting his shoulder, "You''ve thought of so much, showing you''ve indeed made some progress recently."


    After that, Qiu Tu reassured him, "But... don''t worry. I have a handle on this situation."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised or panicked by his words, Cao Dabiao instantly knew that Qiu Tu probably had figured everything out the moment he received the news.


    He also felt relieved.


    Then he asked, "So, Chief, what do we do next?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Next, we''re going to interrogate Jia Wei."


    ```


    "Interrogate Jia Wei?" Cao Dabiao looked surprised.


    He whispered persuasively, "Chief, Jia Wei really is a tough nut to crack."


    "Besides, he''s extremely foul-mouthed, spewing all sorts of insults."


    "Otherwise... maybe this interrogation task should be left to us."


    Qiu Tu patted Cao Dabiao on the shoulder and said, "Don''t worry. My interrogation methods are different from yours."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu clapped his hands and then addressed the other confidants in the office who were busy at work, "Everyone, stop what you''re doing for a moment."


    "Our case is nearing the end."


    "Both suspects have been caught, one of whom has confessed and provided relevant clues and evidence."


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Chen Feng, then said, "Yesterday, Agent Chen Feng followed the suspect''s clues and evidence and obtained the relevant proof."


    "So, today, we just need to finish recording the last suspect''s statement, and the entire case will be satisfactorily closed."


    "Let''s all push a bit harder today."


    "Once we close the case tomorrow, I''ll give everyone a few days of paid leave!"


    "Hooray! ©d(??¨Œ?)¥Î" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Spiral-Up Expert Song Qing was the first to jump up and cheer in support.


    The other agents also echoed with smiles.


    No one dislikes a holiday. If you could get paid without working, probably 99% of people would choose to rest at home.


    Just like that, after boosting morale, Qiu Tu led his confidants to the ninth floor of the Political Department''s Guard Room in a grand manner.


    Since Wang Xi and Jia Wei both possess Catastrophe Power, the Public Security Bureau didn''t have an area suitable for detaining such prisoners, so they had to be temporarily held in the Political Department''s Guard Room.


    However, upon arriving at the Political Department''s Guard Room, something strange happened¡ªJia Wei had vanished.


    "What in the world is going on! Where has our prisoner gone?!"


    Qiu Tu was now quite formidable himself, so when he discovered that Jia Wei was not in his holding cell, Cao Dabiao, without waiting for Qiu Tu to take action, took it upon himself to confront the agent in charge of the Guard Room directly, shouldering his one-star rank and demanding answers.


    Facing Cao Dabiao''s questioning, the agent''s face was full of embarrassment and difficulty.


    He glanced at the dozens of agents behind Qiu Tu, then at Qiu Tu, who stood out like a star among them, his face filled with hesitation.


    After a moment, he let out a deep sigh, then bypassed Cao Dabiao, and rushed over to Qiu Tu, saying quietly, "Chief... I can tell you where the prisoner has gone. But... you mustn''t say that it was me who told you."


    Upon hearing the agent''s words, Qiu Tu''s face broke into a smile. He hooked his arm around the agent''s neck, "I remember you. You''re Wang Dawei, right?"


    "When I came to release Section Chief Bai, it was you who opened the door for me."


    At his name being correctly called out by Qiu Tu, Wang Dawei''s face lit up with surprise and delight.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued smiling and said, "Don''t worry, I''m a man of my word. If I promised not to tell, I definitely won''t."


    "So, spill it, what''s really going on."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Wang Dawei finally showed no more signs of hesitation. Clenching his teeth and stamping his foot, he whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief, the truth is... someone wants to steal your credit."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said "Oh?" with interest, his eyes flickering as he guessed who it might be, "Chief Zheng? Oh, no... it should be Director Zheng?"


    ------


    Three chapters of 10,000 words, haha. First two chapters, 7k words. Update for the third chapter at 20:00.


    Double Monthly Tickets at month''s end, asking for Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 188 Straightforward Confrontation! (10,000-word plea for Monthly Tickets!)

    ```Seeing Qiu Tu guess who was trying to steal the credit, Wang Dawei''s eyes revealed a trace of surprise, before he hastily nodded in agreement.


    After nodding, he cautiously said, "Commander. Actually, after this morning''s promotion orders came down, Deputy Director Zheng brought people over to the Guard Room."


    "He used his position as the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau as justification to try to take away the prisoner."


    "At the time, I actually didn''t want to agree. After all... the rule of the Political Department is whoever captures the person, gets to interrogate them."


    "This person was captured by you, and it should rightfully be you who deals with it."


    "But he claimed that as the new Deputy Division Chief taking over Director Qin''s duties, he also received the jurisdiction of Deputy Director Qin."


    "And Deputy Director Qin''s jurisdiction, apart from a few Public Security Offices, the most important was the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case''."


    "So, he had the authority to take over and investigate this case."


    Wang Dawei said with disdain, "Although he spoke of justice, we all know, he was just here to claim the credit!"


    "The pharmacy robbery case is such a big case with substantial credit due. You captured the suspects, and the case was mostly cracked."


    "Yet he suddenly barges in to conduct a surprise interrogation, which is absolutely disgraceful."


    Wang Dawei paused, then added jokingly, "But... since he indeed has the authority, and also... is our superior."


    "We simply didn''t dare to refuse, so we had to open the door for him and hand over the prisoner."


    Wang Dawei looked at Qiu Tu with an embarrassed expression, "Commander, we were compelled to do this, please don''t blame us."


    People in the workplace are often powerless to act independently.


    Qiu Tu could empathize with that feeling, so he firmly patted Wang Dawei on the shoulder twice and said, "Rest assured, you are not at fault in this matter."


    He continued, "In fact, I should thank you for providing us with such important intelligence."


    After finishing, he looked Wang Dawei up and down, then said, "I think you''re quite capable, and I''ll arrange to have you transferred to my side when I have the time."


    Wang Dawei''s reason for revealing the news to Qiu Tu was precisely to align himself with Qiu Tu. Now, having received the promise, his face lit up with surprise.


    He quickly saluted Qiu Tu excitedly, "Thank you, Commander!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu once again smiled and patted his shoulder. Then he turned to his confidant subordinates and said, "Well, it seems our newly appointed Deputy Division Chief is very interested in our case."


    "Let''s go see his interrogation together."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu took the lead towards the Interrogation Room.


    Even the least familiar among Qiu Tu''s followers, Ding Xiaoqi, showed a loyalty score as high as 70 points.


    So, even knowing that they would have to confront their former/current boss, they unhesitatingly followed behind Qiu Tu, marching majestically towards the Interrogation Section.


    Witnessing this scene, Wang Dawei was filled with envy: Who wouldn''t want to be part of a cohesive group in these troubled times?


    Not to mention him, but many throughout the Investigation Bureau actually wished to join Qiu Tu''s little group. It was just that they had no opportunity to do so...


    While Wang Dawei was envying them, Qiu Tu and his confidants arrived at the Interrogation Section.


    On the way, Liu Fuping seized the opportunity to quietly come over to Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Zheng Tao is not a simple character."


    "If it wasn''t sanctioned from above, he wouldn''t be so brazen in stealing your credit."


    Qiu Tu smiled at this and said, "Definitely."


    He pointed to the ceiling, "You don''t even need to think about it, it must be the instructions or hints of that person."


    "His move is indeed a good one."


    "After all, the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' is a major case. If I alone lead the team to solve the case, then both publicly and privately, he would have to commend me at least."


    "But now by parachuting Zheng Tao in, taking over the case, and conducting an interrogation to obtain the other half of the testimony, the credit for the case gets entirely split."


    "Moreover, Zheng Tao is the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau, ranked higher than me. Later on, they could easily manipulate the narrative to say it was Zheng Tao who led us in solving this case."


    "By then, the credit for this case will no longer belong to us."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping nodded in agreement with a serious expression, "That''s exactly right."


    "So... what should we do?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "What to do? Nothing."


    Sensing Liu Fuping''s puzzled gaze, Qiu Tu reminded her, "The entire premise of Yan Chen''s plan is... that Zheng Tao really can intervene in this case and indeed can obtain something from the interrogation."


    With a mysterious smile, Qiu Tu added, "But... can he really get something out of it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping looked surprised, clearly not understanding where Qiu Tu''s confidence came from.


    She considered herself a favorite student of Jia Shu, whereas Zheng Tao was Jia Shu''s direct disciple.


    With interrogation skills taught by Jia Shu, Zheng Tao was known as the strongest interrogator in the Interrogation Section.


    No prisoner examined by him had ever managed not to spill the beans.


    Was Qiu Tu really confident that Jia Wei could withstand Zheng Tao''s interrogation?


    Furthermore... if Jia Wei could indeed withstand Zheng Tao''s interrogation, wouldn''t his own group be even less able to get anything out of Jia Wei?


    ```


    With this question in mind, Liu Fuping followed Qiu Tu, leading a formidable procession of troops to the Interrogation Section.


    Upon arriving at the Interrogation Section, a brief inquiry made everyone aware of the interrogation room Zheng Tao had used that day.


    Thus, Qiu Tu once again led all his confidants straight to that particular interrogation room.


    At this moment, the agents from the Interrogation Section and other departments of the Political Department, sensing something amiss from Qiu Tu''s "vengeance-seeking" momentum, realized that a significant scoop was brewing.


    Consequently, they called upon friends and colleagues to follow, craning their necks in an attempt to witness a potential clash.


    So by the time Qiu Tu arrived at the door of the interrogation room, he was already followed by a dense crowd.


    This sight startled Zheng Tao''s few confidants standing guard outside into shivering, nearly drawing their guns.


    It was Cao Dabiao''s sharp eyes; he lunged forward and delivered a resounding slap!


    "Have you lost your minds!"


    "Drawing guns against officers inside the Political Department!"


    "Are you trying to revolt!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s thunderous reprimand, Zheng Tao''s confidants snapped out of it, turned ashen, and hurried to salute Qiu Tu, "Chief!"


    Qiu Tu snorted coldly, his face expressionless as he walked past them.


    They intended to step forward and obstruct him, trying to buy Zheng Tao some time.


    But by then, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, and other confidants of Qiu Tu had already stepped forward, pushing them to the sides.


    In this manner, Qiu Tu led his large entourage unimpeded into Zheng Tao''s interrogation room!


    Kicking open the door, the sight that met Qiu Tu''s eyes was that of Jia Wei, bound to the interrogation table, who was furiously cursing Zheng Tao''s ancestors.


    From Zheng Tao''s livid face, Jia Wei appeared to have been cursing him for more than just a minute or two, likely nonstop since being dragged into the interrogation room.


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    At that moment, Zheng Tao was also startled by the loud crash of the door slamming against the wall.


    He slowly turned around, his face grim as he looked toward the door.


    On seeing that it was Qiu Tu standing at the doorway with his men, his already dark expression grew even colder.


    He shouted sternly, "Chief Qiu! May I ask why you are barging into my interrogation room!"


    Qiu Tu, by now bold enough to even strike Yan Chen, was certainly not afraid of Zheng Tao.


    Back when he was under Zheng Tao, he had never feared him. Now that there was no longer a superior-subordinate relationship, he feared him even less.


    So he retorted uncompromisingly, "Director Zheng, that''s a question I should be asking you! Without my permission and without the permission of the investigation team, you interrogated a suspect we had worked hard to capture. Don''t you think you owe us an explanation!"


    Zheng Tao, daring to act in such a manner, must have had his defense planned in advance, and he solemnly stated, "I am now officially the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau."


    "The ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' is my primary responsibility! What issue lies in my interrogating a criminal to advance the case progress?"


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao argued back and forth, the onlooking agents outside were almost clear on the sequence of events.


    They exchanged glances, sensing the aroma of a "bombshell" scoop.


    Anyone in the Political Department was the creme de la creme of the Investigation Bureau, accustomed to all sorts of trickery.


    So even though Zheng Tao''s words were righteous sounding, they all knew he had overstepped his bounds and was trying to steal the credit.


    And Qiu Tu, notorious for being a tough nut to crack within the Investigation Bureau, would certainly not hand over his glory to someone else.


    Between the two, one was a newly promoted Deputy Division Chief with the vague support of higher-ups behind him. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The other was the most rapidly promoted person in the Investigation Bureau in recent months. Though he had recently fallen out with the higher-ups, it seemed he had another card up his sleeve.


    Hence, when it came down to it, neither would back down in this confrontation!


    ''This will be quite a show,'' they thought.


    And while these agents were lost in contemplation, Qiu Tu indeed made no concessions.


    He bluntly stated, "Fine. Since Director Zheng wants to talk about rules, then let me ask him using these same rules!"


    "Haven''t you already left the Political Department and taken up the position of Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau?"


    "Isn''t the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' an investigation that the Public Security Bureau requested assistance with from the Political Department?"


    "According to the rules for ''assistance in investigations,'' shouldn''t I, the officer from the Political Department who was requested for the investigation, be the one in full charge of the case?"


    Qiu Tu paused slightly, "Even if we step back ten thousand steps. If your Public Security Bureau now feels confident enough to investigate on its own."


    "Shouldn''t there be a handover with me before you start the investigation?!"


    "Surreptitiously taking away the suspect for private interrogation, what''s the meaning of this!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned dark, "Such behavior even makes me suspect that you... might be in cahoots with the criminals."


    ------


    3 chapters, 10k words, haha. First 2 chapters, 7k words. Third chapter updated at 20:00.


    Double Monthly Tickets at the end of the month, asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 189 Killing a Chicken to Warn the Monkeys! (10,000 Characters Appeal for Subscription)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the expressions on all the investigating officers present involuntarily revealed a startle.After all, the charge that Qiu Tu had labeled Zheng Tao with was no small matter.


    Colluding with criminals, moreover, those involved in major cases. Not to mention Zheng Tao, the newly promoted Deputy Division Chief¡ªeven Jia Shu, before his dismissal, would have been subjected to an investigation by the Disciplinary Department had he been reported to the higher-ups.


    ''Chief Qiu is really playing a tough hand here. He''s ready to splash the dirtiest water directly onto Director Zheng''s back.''


    There were quite a few clear-eyed agents present, so they immediately grasped the implications of Qiu Tu''s statements as soon as he spoke.


    Zheng Tao also clearly discerned Qiu Tu''s intent. He certainly could not let this dirty water douse him.


    So he quickly responded head-on, "Chief Qiu, one might eat indiscriminately, but one mustn''t speak carelessly."


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a stern face and explained, "My request for interrogation was completely legal and compliant."


    "It is work that falls within the scope of my authority. I was conducting the interrogation in accordance with the rules and regulations."


    "Whether during the transfer or the interrogation, there were always more than three agents present the entire time."


    "The interrogation was also recorded in both audio and video the entire time."


    "If you have any doubts, you can apply to review the interrogation records."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was in no way disrupted by Zheng Tao''s reply: or rather... it was Zheng Tao''s explanation of this issue that thoroughly handed over the rhythm of the conversation.


    So, with a smile that was not quite a smile, Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao and said, "Director Zheng, the Political Department itself deals in spying and counter-spying."


    "Who among us doesn''t know that reminding a criminal, passing on a message, doesn''t require direct dialogue?"


    "A simple action, a simple secret sign. Even mere appearance in front of someone can already convey enough information to the other party."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s face had already turned ashen.


    He asked in a harsh tone, "Then what exactly does Chief Qiu want me to do to prove myself?!"


    "According to what you''re saying, doesn''t that mean I already have no way to prove my innocence?"


    Actually, by this time, the agents present had gradually realized that Qiu Tu completely controlled the entire conversation.


    Zheng Tao, because of the procedural loophole grasped by Qiu Tu, had already fallen into a disadvantageous position.


    Following their line of thought, Qiu Tu should be taking advantage of his victory, kicking the enemy while he''s down. He should finish the job in one fell swoop.


    Who knew, however, that Qiu Tu would chuckle lightly, then suddenly changed his tone, "Director Zheng, you''re not wrong. From the moment you took my suspect, you were already in a melon field beneath a plum tree, unable to clear yourself."


    "You''ve also worked at the Political Department for many years, and you should know why one shouldn''t act rashly with someone else''s suspects¡ªto avoid the very situation you''re in now!"


    Having said this, Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao with a smile that was not quite a smile, "As for how you want to prove yourself. Actually, it''s quite simple."


    "It''s to clear up the case, isn''t it?"


    Qiu Tu gestured towards Jia Wei, who was propping up his body and watching the scene, and said, "As long as you can interrogate and get a confession from the criminal, you''ll naturally prove your innocence."


    "If you can''t manage it... heh."


    Quiet fell over the scene upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words.


    It wasn''t because what Qiu Tu said was too outrageous, but rather... it was too "light". Experience more tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    Letting Zheng Tao continue the interrogation, and moreover, demanding that Zheng Tao produce results from the interrogation.


    Was this purposely making things difficult? It sounded more like a concession, didn''t it?


    After all, with Qiu Tu''s ruckus, even an originally somewhat illegal interrogation by Zheng Tao had now become completely legal.


    Moreover, once Zheng Tao truly obtained a confession, much of the credit for the case would be his, and Qiu Tu would have to cede the primary authority over the case.


    ''Is Qiu Tu getting timid?''


    More than one agent thought this way. They looked at each other, thinking there was more to the matter than met the eye.


    But what exactly the problem was, they did not know.


    Zheng Tao felt the same.


    Having had many dealings with Qiu Tu, he felt he understood him quite well.


    He knew that Qiu Tu had a strong character and was very assertive, never compromising on his own initiative.


    Therefore, the presence of any concession meant there must be a trick!


    But, because Qiu Tu controlled the entire conversation, he was now put on the spot by Qiu Tu, with no way to step down.


    So... even knowing there was an issue, he had to reluctantly agree.


    He said with a deep look, "Fine! Then thank you, Chief Qiu, for the opportunity!"


    "I''ll proceed with the interrogation now!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu indeed interrupted him, revealing his trump card, "Then, Director Zheng, please set a time limit."


    "We can''t just keep the criminal at your place forever, causing the case to be indefinitely stalled, can we?" S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s face went through subtle changes, as if he were considering what time to give.


    Eventually, he did not dare to push his luck, and instead proposed a rather generous time, "Today, 6 PM, before the end of the workday."


    Qiu Tu laughed, "No problem. Then, Director Zheng, please go ahead. I wish you a swift and decisive victory."


    After finishing, he gestured with his hand, then turned and left the interrogation room.


    After leaving the interrogation room, Qiu Tu swept a cold gaze over the many agents who were onlookers, and then said to Chen Feng, Cao Dabiao, and others clustered around him, "Now, arrange for someone to stake out the door of the interrogation room."


    "From now on, until 6 PM, report back every hour to inform me of the progress of the interrogation!"


    Having said this, Qiu Tu''s voice was loud enough almost for everyone present, including Zheng Tao, to hear, "I want to see if the so-called strongest interrogator of the Interrogation Section can really extract a confession from my criminal!"


    He smirked condescendingly and sneered, "Daring to forcefully take over the case based on status alone, interrogating the suspect, trying to snatch the credit without even having a clear understanding of the case or the criminal''s identity!"


    "I really want to see how some people will lose face when the time comes!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu left with a flick of his sleeve!


    Upon hearing the harsh words Qiu Tu had thrown out, the onlooking investigators exchanged glances, suddenly "understanding" what Qiu Tu was thinking.


    They felt that Qiu Tu simply did not believe in Zheng Tao''s abilities.


    The previous action of throwing dirt at Zheng Tao must have been said in anger. But now, demanding that Zheng Tao interrogate the suspect within a limited time was Qiu Tu''s real stratagem!


    The two wagered on this interrogation as their battlefield.


    Qiu Tu bet that Zheng Tao would spend a day unable to break the psychological defenses of that criminal.


    As for Zheng Tao, he bet that he could break through the criminal''s psychological defenses within one day.


    If Zheng Tao obtained a confession, he would be entitled to share the credit for the case;


    If Zheng Tao failed to extract a confession, however, his attempted credit-grabbing stunt would become his biggest ridicule, spread across the entire Investigation Bureau, and any further issues with this suspect could likely become his burden to bear.


    ''A somewhat unfair gamble?''


    This thought briefly crossed the minds of many investigators.


    Because this wager seemed a bit too simple for Zheng Tao. After all, who didn''t know about Zheng Tao''s reputation. His interrogation techniques were truly something!


    ''Qiu Tu may be overconfident...''


    It was because of this very thought that when various departments within the Investigation Bureau learned of the wager between Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao, the majority of the investigators, section chiefs, and division chiefs actually believed that Zheng Tao was highly likely to win.


    They felt that Qiu Tu was underestimating the elite of the Investigation Bureau.


    Zheng Tao, after all, had undergone professional training at the Sanctuary and even learned various interrogation techniques from Jia Shu, an interrogation expert.


    How could he possibly fail to pry open the mouth of a suspect?


    At this moment, however, Zheng Tao was not as confident as everyone thought.


    Ever since he had agreed to Qiu Tu''s wager, a subtle unease had lingered in his heart.


    He always had the feeling he had fallen into some sort of trap, but he couldn''t see through what kind of trap it was.


    So, he could only sit with a gloomy expression, saying nothing.


    While he remained silent, Jia Wei, who was tied to the interrogation chair, started talking.


    He laughed hoarsely, "Hehehe," his voice rough as midnight gravel.


    "You''re finished. Qiu Tu is obviously using you as the ''chicken'' to warn the monkeys."


    "He wants the whole Investigation Bureau to know, even if you have Yan Chen''s backing, crossing him will not end well!"


    "He''s making an example, so others will think twice before opposing him in the future!"


    "So, the moment you agreed to this bet, you were destined to lose."


    "After all, I won''t say anything. Hehehe...."


    Upon hearing Jia Wei''s words, Zheng Tao''s gaze sharpened, and he looked at Jia Wei with a dark expression.


    He slowly stood up, wrapped his hand with a wet towel, walked toward Jia Wei, and then cast a fierce look as he fiercely pummeled Jia Wei''s abdomen several times!


    As he struck, he rebuked, "Not talking?!"


    "You know how many punishments are there in the Political Department?!"


    "No one has ever made it through all of them!"


    As he spoke, he grabbed Jia Wei''s hair with one hand, his face full of anger, and menacingly said, "So, I guarantee you''ll talk!"


    After speaking, he turned to the nearby investigators and barked, "Bring the potion! Start water torture!"


    "He''s a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, don''t worry about his life or death!"


    "Yes!" Hearing Zheng Tao''s order, several confidants promptly responded....


    ...


    The wager between Zheng Tao and Qiu Tu could be said to be tugging at the heartstrings of many in the Investigation Bureau.


    Some supported Qiu Tu, wanting to see his triumph in humiliating others; some disliked Qiu Tu, hoping to see Zheng Tao put him in his place; and then there were those who were just there for the spectacle.


    But regardless, this bet was indeed the biggest news within the Investigation Bureau for these two days. Countless eyes were attracted to this wager....


    Sure enough, an hour passed quickly.


    Chen Feng glanced at the still tightly closed door of the interrogation room and instructed Ding Xiaoliu, "Tell the chief, the first hour of interrogation has not ended."


    "Yes!" Hearing this, Ding Xiaoliu saluted and then hurriedly ran back upstairs to deliver the report.


    And as he rushed to report, the various departments of the Investigation Bureau quickly received the same message as well: In the first hour, Zheng Tao had not broken through the prisoner''s psychological defenses....


    But they were not concerned. After all, to break through the psychological defenses of a significant criminal within one hour was indeed quite difficult.


    So, they continued to watch and wait.


    The time ticked by, second by second.


    Soon, the second hour arrived.


    Chen Feng looked at the still closed door of the interrogation room and said to Ding Xiaoliu, "The second hour, still a failure."


    ------


    3 updates, 10,000 words haha. Continuing tonight with another 10,000. During the double Monthly Ticket period, seeking the minimum Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 190

    Hearing Chen Feng''s words, Ding Xiaoliu quickly saluted again, "Yes!"Then he turned around and left to go "give the good news" on the second floor.


    And with his departure, very soon the entire Investigation Bureau knew that Zheng Tao had not obtained any results from the second hour of interrogation!


    This actually didn''t catch anyone''s attention.


    After all... two hours and one hour were more or less the same. Both were just starting to apply some interrogation methods, so it was normal not to have results yet.


    And the attitudes of some big shots who were following the progress of this matter were similar...


    Organizational Department, Director''s Office.


    After listening to his subordinate''s report, one of the nine high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau, Director of the Organizational Department Shi Youxin, chuckled and nodded.


    Shi Youxin was a man in his forties.


    He had been Yan Chen''s old colleague at the Military Officers'' Academy, and later, when Yan Chen became successful, he resigned to join Yan Chen and had been working under him ever since, belonging to one of Yan Chen''s important confidants and a key helper in Yan Chen''s control of the personnel power of the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Zheng Tao''s promotion included his contributions.


    Therefore, today, as soon as Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao started their conflict, he ordered someone to pay close attention to it.


    Knowing that Zheng Tao did not come out from the interrogation room during the second hour, he smiled, picked up his tea cup steeped with goji berries and deer antler, took a sip, and then said indifferently,


    "Don''t worry... Zheng Tao''s abilities are widely recognized."


    "In the entire Investigation Bureau, aside from Jia Shu, his interrogation techniques are the most brilliant."


    "If even he can''t break through this case, then probably no one can."


    "And..." As he said this, Shi Youxin glanced at the clock, "it''s only 11 o''clock now. There are still 7 hours until 6 pm."


    "Do you know what 7 hours mean to an interrogation expert?"


    "It means he can torture a suspect to the point where they''ll even disclose the color of their wife''s underwear!"


    While talking, Shi Youxin put a few goji berries into his mouth and concluded, "Seven hours, how can Zheng Tao lose?"


    "This time, Qiu Tu has really underestimated the heroes of the world."


    .....


    Special Service Department. Director''s Office.


    The man who had once helped Qiu Tu, one of the nine high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau, the Director of the Special Service Department Lin Ting.


    Facing his subordinate''s report, he shook his head with a smile, "I used to think Qiu Tu was a very smart person."


    "But unexpectedly, this time he''s become so muddleheaded."


    "So, rest assured. The advantage is with us."


    ....


    Among these high-level officials, the only different attitude might be Yan Chen''s...


    Investigation Bureau Chief''s Office.


    Yan Chen sat in his dimly-lit office, smoking and signing documents, while listening to Ji Chen''s report.


    Ji Chen obviously took pleasure in others'' misfortune, his voice buoyant and cheerful during the report.


    But what he didn''t realize was that as his report went on, the expression on Yan Chen''s face became less and less.


    Soon, after Ji Chen finished reporting, Yan Chen slowly put down his pen.


    He looked at Ji Chen with a dark expression and then said slowly, "Ji Chen, do you think Qiu Tu will lose this bet?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen was clearly startled. Then he replied hesitantly, "But... Director Zheng is a renowned interrogation expert."


    "A 9-hour interrogation session, it''s impossible to fail."


    Yan Chen narrowed his eyes and took a drag of his cigarette, then seriously countered, "Since even you know such a simple truth, why wouldn''t Qiu Tu know it?"


    Yan Chen''s words were perhaps too direct, and Ji Chen''s face turned red and then pale.


    After all, Yan Chen was all but pointing at his nose and scolding him for being inferior to Qiu Tu.


    But faced with Yan Chen, Ji Chen didn''t dare to retort, so he could only quickly suppress his smile and lower his voice to admit his error, "The Bureau Chief is correct."


    "Hmph." Yan Chen snorted heavily through his nose and then judged, "Qiu Tu is not someone who loses his head easily. Since he dares to make this bet, it means there must be an inside story."


    "Zheng Tao has been calculated by him."


    As he said this, he waved his hand somewhat listlessly, "Enough. His position has already been bet."


    "Even if Zheng Tao loses face again, that position cannot be ceded."


    "You may leave. Report back when there''s news."


    Having finished speaking, he picked up his pen and started signing documents again.


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen quickly saluted and then turned to leave Yan Chen''s office.


    However, from the disgruntled look on his face as he turned his back to Yan Chen, it was clear he didn''t agree with Yan Chen''s points of view...


    ...


    12 o''clock, the third hour after the bet was set.


    Since the interrogation room had not opened, it was evident that Zheng Tao had not penetrated Jia Wei''s psychological defense. Explore new worlds at My Virtual Library Empire


    1 pm, the fourth hour after the bet was set.


    Zheng Tao and his team hadn''t even come out for lunch, but were racing against the clock to conduct the interrogation.


    However... despite their efforts, it was clear that progress was limited. The door of the interrogation room remained closed.


    2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm.


    At this point, 7 hours had passed since the bet was established. Yet, there was still no sign of the interrogation room''s door opening.


    Instead, some agents from the Interrogation Section had seemingly received some orders and brought in more drugs and interrogation tools.


    However, it was clear that these drugs and interrogation tools were not very effective. Jia Wei still showed no sign of speaking.


    By this time, the mood within the entire Investigation Bureau had finally begun to shift.


    Those who had been supporting Zheng Tao were now a bit unsure.


    After all, 7 hours was a long time for an interrogation that could use various drugs and punishment tools.


    By this point, almost all the drugs that could be used had been exhausted, and whatever punishments could have been applied should have already been used up.


    Now, the agents who were just watching, worried not about whether the interrogation had results, but... that the important prisoner wouldn''t be tortured to death.


    At this time, the entire Investigation Bureau''s attitude toward the bet had begun to shift.


    The detectives who originally supported Zheng Tao were now changing sides, starting to back Qiu Tu instead.


    Only a small group still staunchly believed in Zheng Tao''s ability and continued to "persevere."


    The perception of Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao among the detectives had undergone a complete 180-degree turn.


    Those who had previously mocked Qiu Tu for being "too full of himself" were now ridiculing Zheng Tao for "trying to steal credit," and failing at that.


    However, for the lower-ranked detectives, this bet might have just been a pastime for conversation over tea and meals.


    But for the section chiefs and division chiefs who knew more of the inside story, the bet held an entirely different meaning.


    ¡ªIf they had doubted before whether this bet was a trap, by now, they held no such doubts.


    Taking into account Qiu Tu''s various past deeds, they knew he must have calculated everything before daring to publicly bet against Zheng Tao. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Zheng Tao was driven into a corner and had no choice but to accept the wager. Now it seemed highly likely that he would face a massive loss of face before the entire Bureau.


    In the future, when people talked about Zheng Tao, they would probably not remember his label as an interrogation expert but only the incident of his failed attempt to steal credit.


    Such a reputation, that of someone with "more ambition than skill," would follow him for many years.


    This incident would have a huge impact both on his credibility among his subordinates and his image among those above him.


    It could be said that his future prospects were completely ruined!


    And with this kind of downfall for Zheng Tao, Qiu Tu was warning all those mid-levels who schemed against him or sought to use him to curry favor with the higher-ups¡ªthat it was fine to try their luck with him, but they should be prepared to be crushed in the process!


    This realization made many section chiefs and division chiefs shiver, prompting them to reconsider their relationship with Qiu Tu...


    As such, time ticked by, second by second.


    Soon, it was 5 p.m.


    This time, Qiu Tu didn''t even use Ding Xiaoliu to report. He arrived at the interrogation room''s entrance with his confidants in tow, waiting patiently.


    This assertive move also attracted a lot of detectives to gather around and watch.


    Everyone was waiting for the result of the final hour, eager to see who would win the bet!


    5:10 p.m.; 5:20 p.m.; ...; 5:40 p.m.; 5:50 p.m....


    When the seconds crawled towards 6 p.m.


    More and more detectives had gathered outside the interrogation room.


    At this moment, two of Zheng Tao''s confidants at the door were sweating profusely.


    The tension of the approaching deadline made them almost afraid to breathe. Several times they looked back at the interrogation room, hoping for a miracle in the last 10 minutes.


    But how could miracles happen so easily? If they did, they wouldn''t be miracles!


    So, as the minute hand slowly moved to the "6," the interrogation room''s door remained unopened.


    By then, the onlookers outside were beginning to whisper among themselves.


    Clearly, everyone knew that the dust had settled on the bet: Zheng Tao, a master of interrogation, had used every trick in the book and yet had failed to extract the truth of the case from the suspect''s mouth in nine hours.


    In addition to their shock, people also began to ponder why such a thing had happened.


    Was it Zheng Tao''s lack of ability?


    Was there more to the case than met the eye?


    Or... was Zheng Tao truly an accomplice of the suspect?


    Just as everyone was busy guessing, the door of the interrogation room slowly opened.


    Zheng Tao, covered in blood, walked out looking utterly defeated.


    In the hours that had passed, he had clearly been under tremendous pressure, his hair a mess and his eyes bloodshot.


    If one didn''t know better, one might have thought he had stayed up for two or three nights straight.


    And coupled with his blood-stained clothes and hands, it was clear that he had tried all possible means in those nine hours.


    He had truly and utterly lost the bet!


    Witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu tilted his head to glance inside the interrogation room.


    There, Jia Wei had been tortured almost beyond human recognition, barely an inch of his body left unharmed.


    But perhaps it was the hard fate of a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened that even now, he could still smile with a "heh heh heh" and hurl insults at all the female relatives in Zheng Tao''s family.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu finally ceased to hold back his edge and began to kick a man when he was down!


    "Heh heh, is this the expert interrogator from the Political Department, the former head of the Interrogation Section?"


    "You''ve really disgraced our Political Department!"


    "I practically fed you the credit on a silver platter, and you couldn''t take it. Are you really so useless, or is it... that you''re indeed utterly useless!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s unapologetic mockery, Zheng Tao''s fists tightened.


    He wanted to retort, but the cruel reality of victory and defeat silenced him. He, a man who had lost a bet, had no face to talk back to Qiu Tu.


    So he could only glower and say in a low voice, "You won."


    "The criminal is yours, I won''t interfere with the case anymore."


    As Zheng Tao admitted his defeat, the room fell silent.


    Everyone knew that Zheng Tao had completely fallen.


    Just promoted to Deputy Division Chief, a position at the peak of his influence and prestige, he ended up trying to take credit at the behest of hidden players.


    If he had succeeded, it would have been a different story. Now, having failed and publicly humiliated by Qiu Tu, he had become a laughingstock.


    For a moment, the watching detectives even felt a twinge of pity: who would have thought that the once envied Zheng Tao would be trampled into the dirt in just a few hours, reduced to a stray dog?


    Just when the detectives were reflecting on the bet, Qiu Tu spoke up again.


    "Director Zheng, please wait a moment."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao stopped and turned back with a puzzled look.


    Then he saw Qiu Tu looking at him with a radiant smile.


    But that smile seemed so bloodthirsty, no matter how one looked at it!


    It was like the smile of a giant beast about to devour its prey.


    -------


    Three chapters totaling 10,000 words, haha. First, I''ll release 7,000 words in two chapters, and one more chapter at 20:00. It''s the last day of the month, so I''m asking for the Monthly Tickets! They''ll expire if you don''t use them, you know.

 Chapter 191 Enraging the Enemy to the Point of Coughing Blood (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    That moment, Zheng Tao''s heart "clunked": What? Isn''t it over yet?At this time, the surrounding detectives also noticed the change in the situation, and they all focused their eyes on Qiu Tu.


    They wanted to see why the victor Qiu Tu was calling Zheng Tao back.


    Could it be to mock Zheng Tao a few words?


    Or to smooth things over and give him a way out?


    Or perhaps... to comfort Zheng Tao a few words?


    However, they obviously overestimated Qiu Tu''s cruelty towards his enemies.


    After calling Zheng Tao back, Qiu Tu''s voice slightly raised, then he said, "Director Zheng made our entire investigation team wait for 9 hours!"


    "Waiting until the end of the workday before returning the criminal."


    "This has greatly delayed our case process!"


    Speaking to this point, Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, "So now, I also ask Director Zheng to wait for us for half an hour!"


    "Let us finish interrogating the criminal, wrap up the case, then you can leave."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s eyes widened in disbelief as he looked at Qiu Tu.


    Half an hour to finish interrogating the criminal inside and close the case?!


    The next second, Zheng Tao also felt an indescribable humiliation!


    The case that he couldn''t get out in 9 hours of interrogation, Qiu Tu was planning to finish in half an hour?


    He was really openly mocking him!


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao also couldn''t help but remember how difficult Jia Wei was in the interrogation room.


    In his many years of handling cases, Zheng Tao had never encountered such a monster!


    Zheng Tao had already injected him with many interrogation-type potions, some hallucinogens, some to weaken willpower, and even increased the dosage specifically to avoid Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened''s strong physical constitution.


    As a result, even so, Jia Wei was like nothing was wrong, keeping silent or cursing Zheng Tao''s parents.


    Afterward, whether Zheng Tao used torture or verbal probing, Jia Wei had no reaction at all.


    If it wasn''t for Jia Wei''s body bleeding and reacting to all stimuli, Zheng Tao might even suspect he was a puppet!


    It can be said, Jia Wei was a Waterloo in Zheng Tao''s interrogation history.


    He felt that, unless given four or five days to slowly grind, exhaust, and slowly break through Jia Wei''s psychological defenses, otherwise, it was impossible for him to pry open Jia Wei''s mouth.


    And now, such a tough bone to chew, Qiu Tu actually said he could handle it in half an hour?


    At that moment, Zheng Tao was truly laughed at in anger.


    He glared at Qiu Tu and said, "Fine! Since Chief Qiu invites, I will stay!"


    "I have to see how Chief Qiu intends to pry open that criminal''s mouth in half an hour!"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu just laughed.


    His face was relaxed and nonchalant, "Director Zheng misunderstood. Such a small criminal does not require my intervention."


    "Any one of my subordinates can easily break through his psychological defenses and obtain the interrogation confession!"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu looked back and his gaze swept over all his subordinates'' faces, then it settled on Song Qing, who was peeping out and thinking about leaving work and escaping.


    He called out by name, "Song Qing!"


    Song Qing, upon hearing her name, reflexively responded, "Present!"


    Qiu Tu said, "You go in for the interrogation."


    "In half an hour, bring me the interrogation record!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, everyone''s gaze at the scene concentrated on Song Qing.


    Song Qing looked not too bright, stretching her finger towards herself with an "Eh?" and a flustered "Me? ¦²£¨?§Õ?lll£©"


    Qiu Tu glowered at her, "What? No confidence?"


    Seeing Song Qing''s troubled face about to speak, Qiu Tu said, "Come here, I''ll give you a few interrogation tips."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing walked over in a daze, then leaned close to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu leaned down, and in a low voice, whispered a few words in her ear.


    Song Qing, hearing this, looked at Qiu Tu with a puzzled face, then asked quietly, "Just...just this? (¡Ñx¡Ñ;)?"


    Qiu Tu ruffled her hair and said, "That''s enough. Go."


    After that, Qiu Tu directly pushed her into the interrogation room and closed the door behind her


    ¡ª Just now, when the interrogation room door opened, Qiu Tu had already checked the inside: Jia Wei had almost been played into a puddle of mud and was utterly incapable of harming Song Qing.


    So, as long as Song Qing follows the "interrogation tips" he taught, she will definitely be able to pry open Jia Wei''s mouth...


    Meanwhile, all the detectives present had also seen the entire scene.


    Although they didn''t know Song Qing, they could see the bewilderment and surprise on Song Qing''s face as she was called out.


    So, almost instantly, they judged that Song Qing probably was not skilled at interrogation. Stay tuned with My Virtual Library Empire


    And such a girl, unskilled at interrogation, was to make a vicious and desperate criminal confess within half an hour?


    How could that possibly be!


    ```


    Has Qiu Tu gone mad?


    And while everyone''s hearts were filled with doubt, whispering amongst themselves. Time also passed, second by second....


    10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes....


    Until 25 minutes had elapsed.


    Accompanied by the "creak" of a door opening, Song Qing walked out with a sense of pride, holding an interrogation record in her hand.


    She ecstatically said to Qiu Tu, "Chief! Jia Wei has confessed! He admitted to all his crimes! And he even disclosed the locations of the weapon and the loot!"


    "We can close this case now!"


    Upon hearing Song Qing''s words, there was a stunned silence at the scene....


    The next second, Zheng Tao quickly stepped up to Song Qing, snatched the interrogation record with disbelief, and started flipping through it!


    The more he read, the wider his eyes grew!


    Because... the interrogation record was very complete and detailed.


    It not only recorded Jia Wei''s preparations before committing the crime but also detailed the whole process of Jia Wei''s robbery and the subsequent disposal of the loot!


    From the tight connection of events before and after, this was not made up!


    ''So... Song Qing really solved in 30 minutes, no... 25 minutes a case I couldn''t solve in 9 hours?!''


    Zheng Tao looked incredulously at Song Qing.


    As the former head of the Interrogation Section, Song Qing was Zheng Tao''s subordinate, and he knew her capabilities all too well.


    Therefore, he simply didn''t believe the credit was Song Qing''s!


    ''It could only have been the effect of the words Qiu Tu said to her just now!''


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao fiercely turned his head to look at Qiu Tu.


    To his surprise, Qiu Tu was also looking at him. But Qiu Tu''s gaze was filled with indifference, as if he were looking at a dead man....


    In that moment, Zheng Tao felt a shiver down his spine!


    He was indeed a "dead man"!


    If it were just that the suspect didn''t speak for 9 hours, one could say there was a problem with his ability.


    But when Song Qing solved the case in just 25 minutes after a couple of pointers from Qiu Tu, it completely nailed him to a pillar of shame!


    This stark contrast was enough to make him unable to lift his head in the Investigation Bureau for years, maybe even decades. Moreover, no one would believe in his interrogation skills ever again!


    ''Too cruel!''


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao glared at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu, on the other hand, responded with a smile and said, "Director Zheng, it seems that indeed your interrogation skills need improvement."


    "Now, thanks to you, we''re half an hour late getting off work."


    "Don''t worry, we''ll take a collective day off tomorrow to make it up. We definitely won''t be working overtime~" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao pointed at him with a look of fury, "You, you, you....."


    He said "you" for a long time but couldn''t voice a single complaint.


    Then the next second, "ugh!" Zheng Tao clutched his chest and vomited a pool of blood, then he collapsed backwards and fainted.


    His confidants quickly rushed forward to support him, causing chaos on the scene.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was full of question marks: ??


    What''s the matter, getting so angry that you have an acute surge of blood to the heart?


    It seems the pressure created by the "Crisis Countdown" I manually simulated for him was indeed great.


    But no matter what, with Zheng Tao as an excellent example, I believe that no other section chiefs or directors will provoke me in the future.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu swept a glance at the surrounding agents.


    Clearly, the incident of Zheng Tao being so enraged he vomited blood added quite a bit of gossip and legendary color to today''s betting.


    So, it probably won''t take long before this spreads throughout the entire Investigation Bureau....


    ''Finally resolved.''


    Taking a deep breath, Qiu Tu beckoned his subordinates to carry the severely injured Jia Wei out, sending him to the Guard Room for treatment and recuperation.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he was ready to take this time to write the case closure report.


    As long as the case isn''t closed, there''s always a chance for others to interfere.


    So, the best method is to close the case, cutting off any thoughts of opportunists.


    Furthermore, Qiu Tu''s promotion needed this case as a springboard...


    Having thought this, Qiu Tu''s subordinates had all left for the day after he slapped Zheng Tao in the face metaphorically. As for himself, he sat quietly in his office writing the report.


    Soon, the case closure report was completed. Qiu Tu made a copy and then prepared to submit it.


    His two reports were obviously not for the same person, one for Yan Chen and one for Commissioner Jiang.


    The promotion plan he had been orchestrating for days was finally coming to a close....


    ------


    ```

 Chapter 192 The Truth Behind Song Qings Interrogation! (10k words for Monthly Tickets!)

    After transcribing the report, Qiu Tu glanced at the time.It was already 8 PM.


    Although he said Zheng Tao had delayed his departure from work to embarrass him, he had to admit that because of Zheng Tao, he really did end up working two extra hours.


    Fortunately... the hours he slacked off during the day had just been made up for.


    ''So... it wasn''t a loss?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked out at the dark night sky, preparing to grab something to eat and then submit the report.


    At that moment, however...


    Suddenly, someone knocked on the office door with a "thud thud thud."


    The visitor was clearly an insider, who, after knocking a few times, naturally pushed the door open.


    Qiu Tu looked up and then discovered Liu Fuping walking in with her graceful strides.


    She obviously had already been home because she had changed into casual clothes: a white blouse, black stockings, and a black skirt.


    Feeling that such attire might not be sufficiently formal for the Investigation Bureau, she had also put on a black uniform from the Political Department.


    But she might not have known that the black Political Department uniform, combined with the black stockings wrapped around her long legs, added a different kind of charm to her appearance...


    And with the bulging chest under her uniform, her allure was truly irresistible.


    "Qiu Tu, you haven''t had dinner yet, right?"


    Liu Fuping raised her hand to show the aluminum lunch boxes she was carrying and gave a gentle smile, "I made you something to eat."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up; he felt the young woman was really considerate.


    So he put away the report, set it aside, and patted the table, "Set it down."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Liu Fuping bent over, placed her hefty bosom on the table, then propped up her chin with her hand, and smilingly gazed at Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Damn, this woman really knows how to do it!


    Qiu Tu licked his lips and then reached out to grab the food, ready to dive in right away.


    But Liu Fuping suddenly rose up briskly and dodged with a giggle.


    "Pop." She set the lunch boxes on the table, her beautiful eyes now brimming with laughter like a rainbow.


    "Enough playing around, let''s eat first."


    Qiu Tu stroked his chin as he observed Liu Fuping and teased, "Sister Liu, with moves like that, do you think I can still focus on eating my dinner?"


    Liu Fuping threw a coquettish glance at Qiu Tu, "If you can''t eat, what else would you like to eat?"


    Qiu Tu scanned Liu Fuping''s bulging chest with a knowing smile.


    Liu Fuping''s voice took on a playful tone, as if cajoling a child, "Behave. After dinner, you''ll get everything."


    Qiu Tu looked at her intently for a moment, but ultimately decided to eat first.


    After all, one needed to be well-fed to have the energy for the tasks ahead.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu opened the lunch boxes, which contained two dishes and a portion of rice.


    Both the appearance and the taste were good.


    As he ate, Qiu Tu also praised her cooking, "Every time I eat Sister Liu''s cooking, I feel very fortunate."


    "I wonder who will be lucky enough to marry Sister Liu in the future."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s playful words, Liu Fuping laughed so hard that her chest jiggled.


    After the laughter, she leaned in close to Qiu Tu and whispered, "I don''t need you to marry me, just tell me how you managed to make Little Qing an interrogation expert, will you?"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu''s action of picking up food paused briefly, and then he toned down his smile, looking up at her.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s misunderstanding, Liu Fuping quickly explained, "Don''t get me wrong. It''s not that Commissioner Jiang or Director Liu asked me to inquire."


    "It''s just my own simple curiosity."


    She said with a laugh, "You wouldn''t know, but ever since the interrogation of Jia Wei, Little Qing''s tail has almost been wagging."


    "She even stopped leaving work early as she used to but instead started strutting around the entrances of the Political Department with hands behind her back, enjoying everyone''s envious glances."


    "We asked her quietly how she did the interrogation, what secrets you told her."


    "But she holds her head high and is too full of herself to say anything."


    At the end of her account, Liu Fuping was laughing with exasperation.


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu slowly lowered his head and continued with his meal.


    Sensing Qiu Tu''s contemplation, Liu Fuping felt somewhat uncertain inside, wondering if she had somehow touched a sensitive topic.


    After some consideration, she then spoke softly, "Does it have something to do with your Cataclysmic ability?"


    "If that''s the case, then pretend I didn''t ask."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and replied, "It has nothing to do with the Cataclysmic ability. But... indeed, it''s even more sensitive than that."


    He said, "Since you''ve asked, I won''t keep it from you."


    "In a moment, come with me to see Jia Wei. This matter is related to you anyway."


    "Me?" Liu Fuping blinked her attractive eyes, looking a bit puzzled.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t explain any further; instead, he began to gobble up his meal insanely.


    By the time he was "gulping" down his last mouthful and had just put down his chopsticks, Liu Fuping had already handed him a glass of water.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, picked up the water, and took a sip.


    As he put down the glass, a tender, boneless hand reached out to his lips with a tissue, considerately wiping his mouth.


    ''This is a married woman for sure!''


    ''Give her butt a pat, and she knows whether to kneel or to lie down.''


    After a moment of reflection, Qiu Tu stood up from his chair and then said, "Alright! Let''s go! Let''s meet Jia Wei and clear up the doubts in your mind!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu took the lead and headed outside the office.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping followed with a smile in her eyes. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon, the two arrived at the Guard Room on the ninth floor.


    It was still Wang Dawei on duty tonight, one of their own, so after Qiu Tu greeted him, he brought Jia Wei out.


    After taking Jia Wei to a separate interrogation room, Qiu Tu had Liu Fuping close the door, then said, "This is a secret interrogation, it won''t be recorded in the archives."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Wei, already tormented by Zheng Tao beyond recognition, grinned and bared his teeth in a laugh.


    He raised his head from his disheveled hair, his swollen eyes giving Liu Fuping a sinister look, and then said, "It seems she is a confidant you trust."


    Qiu Tu shrugged his shoulders, saying noncommittally, "Sort of."


    Jia Wei''s face was full of mockery, "Then does she know about your betrayal of humanity and your allegiance to ''God''?"


    Upon hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Fuping was suddenly startled, then looked incredulously at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu, however, nonchalantly waved his hand and said, "Don''t talk nonsense."


    "I''ve just had some communication with Her Highness Larilo." (Chapter 184)


    Seeing Liu Fuping''s continued shock, Qiu Tu then sat in a chair, pointed towards Jia Wei, and methodically introduced him, "Jia Wei, the brother of Jia Shu, a follower of the Evil God Larilo."


    "Hmm... he is also the murderer that Director Liu has been searching for for many years."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s eyes widened sharply, and then she turned towards Jia Wei.


    Because Qiu Tu hadn''t shared the information with Liu Fuping previously, she did not know that Jia Wei was indeed the murderer in that past case.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu reminded her, "His Cataclysmic ability, you should have known when interrogating Wang Xi, relates to Devouring and Puppetry."


    "But what you don''t know is... the body before us is not his True Body, but a Puppet."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reminder, Liu Fuping indeed cooled off and gradually calmed down.


    Qiu Tu continued, "That''s also why Zheng Tao got no results even after a whole day of interrogation."


    "He is a Puppet controlled by the True Body, albeit with certain self-consciousness, but... If the True Body doesn''t allow him to reveal the secrets, he definitely won''t."


    "Even under a hundred tortures or a hundred doses of Potion, he wouldn''t speak."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping roughly guessed the whole truth behind the interrogation.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and added, "So... the reason you burst into the interrogation room was to convey a message to him."


    "To let him know that you and Zheng Tao are adversaries. Your bet with Zheng Tao was also to tell him, in fact, to tell him the time to come and ''rescue'' him."


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Exactly."


    "I had previously warned Zheng Tao: to alert a prisoner and communicate messages does not require direct conversation."


    "A simple gesture, a simple secret code. Even just appearing before someone can convey enough information." (Chapter 189)


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping continued, "And the reason Little Qing managed to pry open his mouth and get a confession... it actually didn''t matter what she did, it was simply because... she was chosen by you."


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded again, "Yes. I actually didn''t teach Song Qing any interrogation methods."


    "I just told her a spell imbued with Supernatural Power: ''Palace Jade Liquor, 180 per cup.''"


    "Recite this Curse, and it will make the prisoner speak willingly."


    "That''s why she was so surprised at first."


    Liu Fuping took a deep breath, then inquired, "So what agreement did you actually reach with that Evil God?" Explore stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Why would She have Her follower cooperate with you to such an extent?"


    Qiu Tu casually replied, "That''s a story that involves you, or rather... Director Liu behind you."


    ------


    Three chapters and 10,000 words done, ha. This month I''ve updated with a daily ten thousand words for 30 consecutive days, totaling 310,000 words! Next month we continue!


    Tomorrow, May 1st, is my birthday. I ask for an early Monthly Ticket as a baseline.


    There should also be a promotion for merchandise coming up, everyone is welcome to check it out.


    -----


    I recommend my friend''s book "Great Tang: Father Emperor, Your Son Desires Progress!"

 Chapter 194 Who is the Real Murderer? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted to Jia Wei.Perhaps during the interrogation that afternoon, Zheng Tao did indeed employ a great deal of methods on Jia Wei.


    So even with the exceptional recovery abilities of a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, his face still sported blues and bulges, looking utterly miserable.


    Added to that were the fresh blood filling his mouth and covering his face, which made his recounting of his tragic experiences seem even more impactful.


    Jia Wei, "On our first day in Cuishan City, it was Liu Xiongyuan who received us."


    "At that time, Liu Xiongyuan was just a Deputy Staff Leader in the Administrative Office."


    "He had managed to cross the threshold of an agent with difficulty, but within the entire Investigation Bureau hierarchy, he still belonged to the very bottom."


    "Moreover, since the Administrative Office was considered a weaker department, a clean government office, he wasn''t taken seriously by anyone."


    Jia Wei''s eyes revealed nostalgia, "Back then, his eyes seemed to still hold light, filled with longing for the life ahead."


    "Even though he had worked so hard for so long, it might have only been our starting point. But his eyes were still brimming with hope for the future."


    "It was also at that reception that he brought his son."


    Jia Wei''s mouth bled as he spoke, "Actually, that night, I felt there was something peculiar in the way my brother looked at Liu Xiongyuan''s son."


    "But I thought I was overthinking it. So, I didn''t take it to heart."


    "Later on, we began our hands-on activities. Our group of students was divided among the various departments of the Investigation Bureau for internships."


    "Some went to the Special Service Department, some to the Political Department, and some to the Public Security Bureau. Only I... was assigned to the Administrative Office!"


    At this, Jia Wei''s eyes nearly burst with frustration, "I was bewildered at the time and went to confront my brother, asking why he assigned me to such a job scope!"


    "But then... he told me that the Administrative Office was the department that tempered a person''s comprehensive abilities the most."


    "It might seem unimpressive, but it actually tested one''s capabilities a great deal."


    "Furthermore, you could learn from the Bureau Chief. So as long as you could hold on in the Administrative Office, whether for future development, like becoming Deputy Director or Bureau Chief, it would all be beneficial."


    "At the time, I truly believed he had my best interests at heart, so I agreed."


    Jia Wei laughed at himself with self-mockery, "But now that I think about it, he must have already calculated my involvement from the beginning."


    Jia Wei said, "Because I was assigned to the Administrative Office, and the very Liu Xiongyuan who had received us happened to be there, I naturally started to interact more with Liu Xiongyuan to quickly become familiar with the office''s affairs."


    "Thus, I gradually got to know Liu Xiongyuan''s son."


    "Liu Xiongyuan''s son was a very sunny, confident person. Like a sunflower, just like his father, his heart was always filled with kindness towards the world."


    "He believed that the Era of Disaster would soon pass, believed in the high-sounding but hollow ideals promoted by the Sanctuary, and believed that mankind would keep getting better."


    "To be honest, even in the Sanctuary, I have seen very few who are as optimistic as he was."


    "So gradually, we became friends with whom I could talk about anything."


    "We ate together, drank together, worked on cases together. He took the lead, while I supported him from behind with the logistics..."


    "Everything should have been very beautiful. Even if I went back to the Sanctuary, this friendship would have stayed in my heart for a long time."


    "Even... I was planning to apply to be assigned to Cuishan City as a department head, to become his superior, after I graduated."


    At this, Jia Wei pulled up a smile at the corners of his mouth, letting out a soft chuckle. Clearly, for him, this was a very pleasant memory.


    Qiu Tu was carefully analyzing Jia Wei''s microexpressions while continuing to listen.


    Jia Wei continued, "But everything changed on the eve of our return to the Sanctuary."


    "That night, to celebrate the end of my internship and to send me off, he and a few agents from our department took me out for dinner."


    "During dinner, we drank a lot of alcohol, but we didn''t drink to our heart''s content."


    "So, at 12 o''clock, we returned to my place to continue drinking."


    "Since my home was a vacant house provided by the bureau and I lived there alone without any outsiders, everyone readily agreed."


    "And so we kept drinking until 3 or 4 in the morning, before we drunkenly fell asleep."


    "I had thought it was the most ordinary day. But who would have known, it turned out to be the day that changed my entire life!"


    Jia Wei''s gaze was filled with pain and regret, "When I woke up the next day, I found the whole house was covered in bloodstains."


    "In my hand was a police-issue dagger, and he and the other three colleagues were all lying in a pool of blood, lifeless."


    "I was terrified at the time. I had no idea what had happened, so I panicked and threw the dagger away and ran."


    "But I never imagined that this would become one of the key pieces of evidence that the trial panel later used to deem me guilty."


    At this point, Jia Wei''s gaze had turned completely sinister and fierce, "After that, I hid for two days, and I thought it over for two days. No matter how I thought about it, something seemed off. I felt as if I had fallen into some sort of trap."


    "Just then, my own brother, Jia Shu, found me."


    "He told me that the case I was involved in had caused a huge uproar. Everyone was looking for me, and once they found me, I was certain to face death."


    "So, he gave me two suggestions: either flee Cuishan City and wander the earth forever, or turn myself in and hope for leniency."


    "At the time, I actually didn''t want to choose either; I wanted to figure out what was really going on with the case, to understand if I was truly the murderer."


    "But..." said Jia Wei, glancing at Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping with a wry smile, "you both know about my brother''s brainwashing abilities."


    "Thus, persuaded by him, I eventually chose the second path: to turn myself in."


    "I turned myself in to Yan Chen on the third day after the son of Liu Xiongyuan died."


    "And the testimony I gave when I turned myself in, such as killing people in a drunken blur, and running away in fear after realizing what I had done... all became crucial evidence in my future trial."


    What Jia Wei shared next was mostly in line with the details of the case that Qiu Tu was aware of.


    Because Jia Wei had turned himself in, and the fingerprints, traces, and the spray pattern of the bloodstains, plus the fingerprints on the murder weapon... all matched only the four people in the room...


    Therefore, the trial panel in the first trial concluded that Jia Wei was indeed the killer, so he was sentenced to death.


    But in the second review, Yan Chen changed his mind, and ultimately Jia Wei was sentenced to exile.


    Such a result was obviously unacceptable to Jia Wei. Thus, he had been quietly looking to investigate the old case.


    However, whether it was because his efforts were too apparent, after several attempts to investigate, Jia Shu found him.


    After finding him, Jia Shu told him to stop pursuing the case and warned him that if he continued investigating, not only would he cut off his financial support, but he would also send him to fend for himself in the Disaster Zone...


    It was only at that moment that Jia Wei suddenly sensed something very wrong about the entire situation.


    For instance... although Jia Wei had a very good relationship with the son of Director Liu, Jia Shu''s relationship with Director Liu''s son wasn''t bad either.


    For instance... Jia Shu seemed to always look at Director Liu''s son with an intense, strange gaze.


    For instance... during the entire "confession" and "sentencing" process, Jia Shu appeared to be guiding the direction of the whole affair.


    So, it was at that moment that Jia Wei suddenly realized that Jia Shu might just be the real culprit behind the scenes!


    After listening to Jia Wei''s narrative, the interrogation room fell silent for a moment.


    After a while, Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping exchanged glances, and then Qiu Tu said to Jia Wei, "About Jia Shu being the killer, do you have any evidence?"


    Jia Wei sneered, "Do you think that after so many years, there could still be any evidence for this case?"


    "Besides, with Jia Shu''s cautious nature, how could he possibly leave any evidence?"


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    He said, "I''ve met with him a few times over the years, even trying to secretly record him admitting to the murder."


    "But he''s been very alert and never took the bait."


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Then he glanced at Liu Fuping and whispered, "Let''s step outside and talk."


    Liu Fuping had seemed to already anticipate this, so she nodded, stood up, and followed Qiu Tu out of the interrogation room. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once at the door of the interrogation room, Qiu Tu closed the door, sealing their voices away from Jia Wei.


    After that, he turned to Liu Fuping and asked, "Sister Liu, what''s your take on this?"


    ---------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words haha. Chapter 3 will be updated around 20:00! Continuing with a daily ten thousand words for the new month, I ask for your Monthly Tickets! During the double-points period, our book''s Monthly Tickets are eligible for a lottery draw. Interested readers can check the single chapter update on the 1st in the early morning.

 Chapter 195 I Have 100 Ways to Get Rid of Jia Shu (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment.She even hesitated to look at Qiu Tu, opting to lower her head in quiet contemplation instead.


    After a moment, she avoided Qiu Tu''s gaze and said somewhat ambiguously, "It might... be true."


    Who is Qiu Tu?


    A master of...! Ah, no. A master of female psychology!


    Thus, simply from Liu Fuping''s expression, Qiu Tu understood that she now somewhat distrusted him and dared not face him.


    This was actually quite understandable: in the new order of the Era of Disaster, where Sanctuaries were the core of human civilization, collaborating with an Evil God could almost be considered the gravest of sins.


    Hadn''t even Jia Shu, who held a high position and had a substantial background as the Head of the Political Department, fallen because of this?


    Therefore, when Liu Fuping discovered that Qiu Tu was actually cooperating with an Evil God and communicating with Evil God Cultists, it was perfectly normal for her to be a bit suspicious.


    Even Qiu Tu could guess what Liu Fuping was suspecting: nothing more than that he had colluded with the Evil God to eliminate Jia Shu, inventing reasons to deceive Director Liu into taking action.


    However, since Qiu Tu dared to bring Liu Fuping to meet Jia Wei, he was 100% confident he could make her believe in him again.


    After all, Liu Fuping''s loyalty, as high as 95 points, currently ranked in the top three among all of Qiu Tu''s subordinates.


    With such a high degree of loyalty, even if she momentarily doubted him due to a clash of beliefs, deep down she probably still stood by his side.


    As long as he explained himself a bit and guided her slightly, he would be able to win her back.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu did not continue discussing the case of Jia Wei and Jia Shu. Instead, he slowly began to talk about his dealings with Larilo.


    He said, "Sister Liu, do you know how much of a threat a descended Evil God could pose to humanity?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping hesitated before responding, "It could destroy a city? Result in hundreds of thousands of casualties?"


    She reminisced and continued, "I remember there was once a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature of the ''Destruction'' lineage that descended into the real world."


    "It went on a rampage in the real world and ultimately caused the deaths of seventy to eighty thousand people, with over a hundred thousand injured."


    "In the end, it was only after the Third Sanctuary dispatched its masters along with the army, at no small cost, that they were able to exterminate it."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then asked, "Then do you know the harm a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature can cause if it doesn''t recklessly use its power to destroy cities but instead starts posing as a ''God''?"


    At Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping was momentarily stunned.


    The destruction of cities and the massacre of humans by Catastrophic Creatures could be quantitatively expressed with numbers.


    But the harm an ''Evil God'' could cause...perhaps because no similar crisis had erupted yet, and without data, Liu Fuping really had some difficulty making a judgment.


    Seeing Liu Fuping at a loss for words, Qiu Tu smiled, then stretched out a clenched fist and suddenly opened it in front of her.


    "They... can destroy the entire human race."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s deep voice, Liu Fuping was momentarily dazed.


    Qiu Tu spoke with a hint of reminiscence in his voice, "Why are the Sanctuaries so vigilant towards ''Evil Gods''?"


    "They''re just like other Fourth and Fifth Order Catastrophic Creatures, mere Catastrophic Creatures with no special abilities, right?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Because... the Sanctuaries understand. The most powerful weapon of a creature is never brute force, but intelligence."


    "And what will lead to the extinction of humanity is not the powerful Fifth Order Catastrophic Creatures, but the Evil Gods who know how to infiltrate humanity and spread their beliefs."


    "Humans...are an incredibly resilient species. They can''t be conquered by force, but belief and brainwashing can."


    "When the Catastrophic Creatures learn to think, to disseminate their vile doctrine..."


    "When more and more humans are bewitched by them, when the number of those who follow their path increases..."


    "Only then will humanity truly fall under the thrall of the Catastrophic Creatures, completely losing their beliefs, their history, their backbone! And in the end... they will perish as a species..."


    Liu Fuping was clearly taking in Qiu Tu''s words. Her hands clenched slightly, and her brow furrowed deeply.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then continued, "And don''t forget, what era we are in right now."


    "The Era of Disaster!"


    Qiu Tu pointed towards the sky, his tone grave as he said, "Above the material world, a Spirit World has appeared out of thin air. The thoughts of all creatures can influence that world."


    "And belief...isn''t that the purest form of thought?"


    "So, who can guarantee what kind of impact a ''Evil God'' would truly have once they''ve spread their beliefs?"


    "''Brave New World'' alone was capable of giving birth to a super Catastrophic Creature in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "What then could the confluence of countless people''s beliefs bring into being?"


    "A Fifth Order Catastrophic Creature? An even more powerful Sixth Order Catastrophic Creature? Or... a true God?"


    "No one dares to wager on this probability. That''s why the Sanctuaries have a ''zero tolerance'' policy towards all events related to the Evil Gods!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu gestured towards the interrogation room where Jia Wei was, adding, "And now, here in Xinjie City, we already have an Evil God that has successfully descended."


    "Although she''s not in her true body and doesn''t seem to be of the highest strength, in our confrontations with her, both the Security Department and I have found her to be unprecedentedly troublesome."


    "She not only knows how to create false hopes, to seduce people''s hearts, and to deploy schemes and cunning tactics. She even knows how to hide..."


    At this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but reveal a piece of news he had received from Qin Shuman the night before.


    With a solemn gaze, he said, "Since we learned of her descent, a week has passed. The Security Department has been investigating and searching through various leads." Find more to read at My Virtual Library Empire


    "But... so far, they haven''t found the slightest trace of her."


    "The Security Department wanted to get a description of the vessel for the Evil God''s descent from Old Master Qin''s mouth."


    "But... perhaps triggering some keyword, before Old Master Qin could even speak, his head just exploded."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping frowned, her gaze becoming serious.


    After a moment, she couldn''t help looking at Qiu Tu and tentatively asked, "So... your cooperation with the Evil God is to...?"


    Qiu Tu cut her off and corrected, "Sister Liu."


    "First of all, I have not cooperated with Larilo."


    "I merely had a brief conversation with her, exchanging a bit of information with each other."


    "Secondly, the reason I did this was for you and Director Liu."


    "I know that case from back then was Director Liu''s obsession, and it was your most important mission."


    "You might think I''m doing all this to have someone else do the dirty work for me."


    "But to be honest, I have a hundred different ways to get rid of Jia Shu, none of which would require you to lift a finger."


    Noticing a hint of disbelief in Liu Fuping''s eyes,


    Qiu Tu added with a smile, "He is just a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened without an official identity. If he dies, he dies."


    "Do you really think that, with my position, I can''t get my hands on a few rifles?"


    "Don''t forget the weapons Jia Wei and Wang Xi used for the robbery were rifles...."


    "And their weapons still haven''t been found...."


    Liu Fuping''s face suddenly lit up with realization upon hearing this.


    Seeing that Liu Fuping was convinced, Qiu Tu continued to explain the motive behind his contact with Larilo, "Lastly, and most importantly,"


    "Although I don''t possess a grand altruistic heart set on saving humanity,"


    "Xinjie City is still the place that raised me."


    "If Larilo really begins to gain strength in Xinjie City, we''re all doomed."


    "So, even if it''s just for self-preservation, I have to help the Security Department dig Larilo out!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s righteous words, Liu Fuping looked at him worriedly and said, "But.... if Larilo retaliates against you later...."


    "Or if the Security Department or the Investigation Bureau find out about this and don''t believe your explanation, what then?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu gravely said, "If I don''t enter Hell, who will?"


    Liu Fuping stared blankly at Qiu Tu. At that moment, in her eyes, Qiu Tu seemed... as if he was shining....


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +2, current Loyalty 97]


    She couldn''t help but reach out and take Qiu Tu''s hand, then softly said, "I''m sorry, Qiu Tu. I doubted you just now."


    "Now I understand your thinking. I will definitely support you."


    As she spoke, her face was filled with determination, "Rest assured. Even if they doubt you and remove you from your position, I will speak with Director Liu and ask him to find a way to reassign you to Eastern City and restore your official position!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was moved as he clasped Liu Fuping''s hand back, while a faint smile formed at the corner of his mouth...


    Indeed, once loyalty reaches above 90, to boost it quickly, one must rely on "great justice."


    It''s only by embodying "great justice" and "deifying" oneself that people are more easily rallied.


    As for all the reasons and justifications that Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping discussed just now... of course... most of them were fabricated.


    Qiu Tu did indeed have several Plan Bs, but regardless of which Plan B it was, Qiu Tu had to act on his own.


    Any action would leave traces and could become a ticking time bomb.


    If it''s possible to use someone else to do the deed, why dirty one''s own hands?


    And about the exchange and cooperation with Larilo... that''s even more fake. The reason he communicated and cooperated was solely out of fear of death.


    Had it not been for Larilo''s fixation on him, he wouldn''t bother with the Evil God at all ¨C if he could eliminate it, great; if not, he''d hurriedly find connections to relocate his group!


    Trees die when they are uprooted, but people thrive from it. If the sky falls, there will be a Sanctuary to hold it up!


    Being just a lowly First-Order Catastrophic Awakened, why would he bother to confront a Fourth-Order or higher Evil God that could beguile hearts?


    While silently disparaging the situation in his mind, Qiu Tu once again asked his initial question, "Sister Liu, what do you think of Jia Wei''s words?"


    This time, Liu Fuping clearly reverted to her original attitude towards Qiu Tu.


    She hesitated for a moment before slowly speaking, "I don''t know how to judge."


    "Because all the words just now came solely from Jia Wei''s perspective."


    "That case happened too long ago. Clues and witnesses no longer exist. We don''t even have the conditions to retry the case."


    "Moreover, I don''t think Director Liu would believe the words of a murderer."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu finally began to reveal his true intentions.


    He said with a smile, "Indeed, Director Liu might not believe the words of a murderer. But he... might very well believe mine."


    He paused before solemnly adding, "So, Sister Liu, I hope you can use Jia Wei''s testimony to contact Director Liu once more and say that I would like to speak with him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s request, Liu Fuping didn''t hesitate this time and earnestly nodded, "Alright. I will contact Director Liu right away."


    After saying that, she turned and walked towards an empty interrogation room next door to make the call to Director Liu.


    Qiu Tu watched her leave and let out a sigh of relief. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, at last, he had managed to connect with Director Liu through Jia Wei¡ªthe rest... now depended on when Jia Shu''s final verdict would be delivered.


    Once his verdict was handed down, Qiu Tu''s plan could truly proceed....


    And at that moment, just as Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    suddenly, his communicator buzzed vibrantly.


    Qiu Tu looked at the communicator and saw that it was from Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu didn''t pick up the call right away but first opened the door of the interrogation room and took a glance at Jia Wei.


    After confirming that he was still securely locked to the interrogation table, he shut the door and answered the call.


    As soon as he picked up, he heard Tang Feifei''s cool voice, "Qiu Tu, Jia Shu''s punishment has been decided."


    "Tomorrow morning he will be officially stripped of his title as Head of the Political Department, erased from the records of the Sanctuary, no longer a citizen of the Sanctuary, and expelled from Xinjie City."


    "However, the process deviated somewhat from what we expected."


    ------


    Today is my birthday, so the update is a bit late. But here are 3 chapters of 10,000 words anyway.


    Continuing with 10,000 words a day tomorrow! During the double period, please support with Monthly Tickets! Our book''s Monthly Ticket can be used for a draw during the double period; see the details in today''s single chapter!

 Chapter 196 Jia Shu Dismissed from Office (11,000 Words, Subscribe!)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression turned solemn.He asked, "What kind of incident has occurred?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei was in the study of her villa.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s grim study, hers was much brighter, not only equipped with ceiling lights but also surrounded by spotlights.


    Additionally, the cool-toned modern decor gave off a sense of grandeur and ambition!


    Sitting behind a light-colored solid wood desk, Tang Feifei looked somewhat serious.


    While reviewing a document in her hand, she explained to Qiu Tu,


    "My second uncle reported it according to the plan we discussed earlier."


    "Although Jia Shu didn''t side with the Evil God or betray humanity, he did collaborate with the Evil God."


    "Moreover, considering the attack on you and the suspected murders over the years, Sanctuary has been asked to relieve him of his duties and conduct further investigation and observation."


    "But after the report was submitted, there was substantial resistance."


    "Apart from the lack of comprehensive evidence and Jia Shu''s own confession, there was also interference from the person behind Jia Shu."


    In this world, due to the chaotic times, not much energy could be spent on thoroughly investigating individual cases; many relied on "heavy testimonies, light evidence."


    This method of case handling was prone to false accusations: as Jia Wei mentioned, being brainwashed into confessing by Jia Shu and turning into a real criminal was a common occurrence.


    Therefore, with Jia Shu keeping his mouth shut during the attack on Qiu Tu, not cooperating with the Disciplinary Department, and not providing any testimony, the case inevitably encountered various obstacles, such as¡­ allowing those behind him to cause trouble.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu asked, "Who is the person behind Jia Shu? What''s their identity?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tang Feifei from the other side of the phone lifted her head, her beautiful face filled with hesitation.


    After carefully weighing her words, she finally spoke, "The person behind Jia Shu is named Huang Shangzong."


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    "He is one of the 36 members of Sanctuary''s council, and also one of the founders of the General Investigation Bureau."


    "During his years working at the General Investigation Bureau, he nurtured many mid-level and lower-level backbones, which is why his influence in the Investigation Bureau''s system is significant."


    "The reason Jia Shu was able to come to the Planning Area this time also has to do with his support."


    "Although life in the Planning Area is tough and resources are scarce, it is a place where one can train to the utmost, and act like a Local Tyrant beyond the reach of the Emperor, and also instantly elevate one''s rank. So it''s considered a lucrative position."


    "Without Commissioner Huang''s help, Jia Shu would have never obtained this position."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment and then added, "Additionally, you might not be aware¡­"


    "Lately, in order to better rebuild the Planning Area and for the seamless integration of the three major power institutions, Sanctuary is considering establishing higher-level administrative units in the Planning Area."


    "When it happens, Xinjie City, Eastern City, and several other cities will likely merge into a ''state''."


    "At that time, like Sanctuary, a State Council will be formed as the highest governing body of the entire state."


    "The bigwigs of the three major power structures from the dozen or so cities will automatically become council members. In addition to the 36 council members, there will be three Deputy Speakers and one Speaker."


    "Sanctuary''s current consensus is that 1-2 Deputy Speakers will be elected from among the 36 council members. The Speaker, however, will be appointed by Sanctuary''s council."


    Having said this, Tang Feifei paused, then added softly, "And according to the current public opinion, Huang Shangzong is very likely to become the first Speaker of the Dongye State Council¡­"


    Hearing this shocking news, Qiu Tu''s pupils on the other end of the phone couldn''t help but constrict slightly.


    Truthfully, this news took him by surprise!


    What could be more shocking than finding out your enemy''s ''backer'' is about to become your boss''s boss?


    ''This is really leaving me no way out!'' he thought indignantly.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu felt almost anxious. A State Council Speaker, even without a deep understanding of the political system of this world,


    could still be equated to those Senior Frontier Officials seen only on television in his past life.


    Now such a powerful figure was standing in his way.


    Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt tempted to back off: should he let Jia Shu off the hook?


    But no sooner had this thought surfaced than he quashed it.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t want to let Jia Shu go, but rather that Jia Shu wouldn''t let him go.


    Jia Shu''s ''Shadow Devouring'' cataclysmic ability could not change its target once chosen, and it had to devour the target before it could select another one.


    In such a scenario, as long as Jia Shu wanted to enhance his own strength, he would have to devour Qiu Tu.


    Thus, the two of them were caught in a deadlock, where only one could survive¡­


    ''Damn it¡­ I still have to kill him!''


    ''And, I cannot change the plan. With such a powerful person behind him, giving him a chance to start over would spell even more trouble for me!''


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu suppressed the trepidation and unease in his heart and then said gravely, "What happened next? How did Huang Shangzong end up handling this case?"


    Tang Feifei, sensing the change in Qiu Tu''s emotions, went straight to the point upon his inquiry, "Huang Shangzong didn''t alter the outcome of the case."


    "He merely tweaked the wording slightly."


    "He changed Jia Shu''s charge from ''collaborating with the Evil God'' to ''mutual exploitation with the Evil God.''


    "As for the attack on a colleague, that part was simply removed."


    "According to him, since you weren''t yet listed in Sanctuary''s records at the time, you couldn''t be considered Jia Shu''s colleague."


    "Regarding the suspected murders by Jia Shu in previous years, since there was no evidence and only conjecture and inference, they can''t serve as the basis for conviction. So those were also dismissed¡­"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s explanation, Qiu Tu burst into sardonic laughter. He "heh" and then remarked, "Not considered a colleague¡­"


    "Actually¡­ for Sanctuary, unless listed in their records, one is not considered a ''person,'' right?"


    "After all, for us who have silently perished in the Planning Area or the Disaster Zone, there isn''t much difference."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s gaze fell, but she didn''t retort.


    After all... in the Era of Disaster, no one knows how many people will die each day. The Sanctuary indeed doesn''t have the energy to save or even count each person who dies.


    To the Sanctuary, those people aren''t even numbers...


    After briefly exchanging pleasantries, Qiu Tu forcefully exhaled a clouded breath and then asked, "So, in the end, did the Disciplinary Department agree?"


    Tang Feifei uttered a confirmation and said, "The Disciplinary Department, in fact, cares more about the result than the process."


    "As long as the result doesn''t change, even if Huang Shangzong lightened Jia Shu''s responsibility, it''s still acceptable to them."


    "After all... politics is the art of compromise."


    Listening to Tang Feifei''s conclusion, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Politics truly is the art of compromise. Seriously speaking, even he was satisfied with such a result.


    After all... no matter how light Jia Shu''s responsibility is, he''s lost the position and Sanctuary status that he relied on for his life. So, killing him would not break any laws besides possibly provoking the people behind him...


    After all, according to Huang Shangzong''s words: Without the status of the Sanctuary, how could one be considered a colleague...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu fell into silence for a few seconds before he finally spoke up, "Feifei. Jia Shu''s dismissal notice will be issued tomorrow, right?"


    "When will he be expelled from Xinjie City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei calculated briefly, then responded, "Actually, in theory, he should leave tomorrow morning."


    "However, the Disciplinary Department might process some related paperwork. So, it is likely that he will leave tomorrow night."


    "Tomorrow night, huh..." Qiu Tu quickly made some calculations.


    ''There''s enough time!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu finally made up his mind. He smiled and said, "Understood. I got it."


    Hearing the implied meaning in Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei pondered for a moment before she said, "Qiu Tu... Huang Shangzong is no simple character."


    "Jia Shu is considered his prized prot¨¦g¨¦. You... you must be very careful."


    Tang Feifei didn''t understand the deep-seated issues between Jia Shu and Qiu Tu, so Qiu Tu knew she meant well for him.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu just smiled and said, "Don''t worry. I won''t make an enemy of such a high-level boss."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu sincerely added, "Thank you, Feifei."


    On the other end of the line, Tang Feifei fell silent for two seconds before saying coldly, "I''ve recently taken a liking to drinking ice water."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    This wasn''t even a hint, it was a declaration. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu paused for a second, then reached for his "kidney area."


    Indeed... some debts can''t be avoided.


    Forget it... Tang Feifei has indeed been very helpful during this period, and he indeed should put in effort for her!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu braced himself and agreed, "Okay. I''ll come over to your place tonight to let you drink lots of ''hot water.''"


    Hearing the implied meaning in Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s lips curled into a smile, "I''ll wait for you."


    After speaking, she hung up the phone.


    On the other end, Qiu Tu set down the communicator, then took a deep breath, knowing that a fierce battle awaited him tonight!


    At this moment, as he was thinking this, the voice of Liu Fuping suddenly reached his ears, "Qiu Tu, is something wrong? Why do I sense that your expression is a bit grave?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu turned to look and saw Liu Fuping coming out from the adjacent interrogation room with a communicator in hand.


    He carelessly replied, "Nothing''s wrong. It''s just that a friend''s house has a broken water pipe, it''s constantly leaking and can''t be stopped, and they wanted me to help fix it."


    Liu Fuping gave a somewhat puzzled "oh" not quite understanding what was so serious about fixing a water pipe.


    But right now, she clearly had more pressing matters to attend to, so she put this strange excuse to the back of her mind and told Qiu Tu, "Director Liu has agreed to speak with you. He wants to hear your opinion on what Jia Wei said about the past."


    "But you only have three minutes."


    "If you can''t convince him within three minutes, he will hang up the phone."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at the communicator in Liu Fuping''s hand and then nodded.


    He adjusted his emotions, then confidently said, "Don''t worry."


    "To say nothing of three minutes, I''ll convince Director Liu within one minute."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping handed over the communicator.


    Qiu Tu took the communicator, then walked into the vacant interrogation room next door, shut the door, and said into the microphone, "Hello, Director Liu."


    On the other side of the line, a robust and oppressive male voice came through, "Hello, Chief Qiu."


    "..."


    ....


    Liu Fuping stood outside the interrogation room, keeping watch for Qiu Tu while also worrying about him in her heart.


    Director Liu, Liu Xiongyuan, was never an easy person to deal with. Especially since the death of his son, he had become even more solitary and capricious.


    And managing to rise to his current status from a background with no Sanctuary backing, his abilities were clearly extraordinary, something that couldn''t be ignored by others.


    Even in the eyes of most, he was someone even more troublesome to deal with than Yan Chen.


    After all, although Yan Chen has deep seniority and tremendous influence, he still came from the Academic Faction, always possessing some pride in his armchair strategies.


    ------


    Three chapters of ten thousand words, ha. One more update around 20:00. Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 197 Tang Feifeis Another Night (11,000 words seeking Monthly Ticket)

    But Liu Xiongyuan was not like that. As a low-class citizen born in the Disaster Zone,he had clawed his way up from the bottom, every step of his journey hard-fought.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu might be able to seize Yan Chen''s weakness to brainwash or trick her. But... he definitely couldn''t fool Liu Xiongyuan.


    Moreover, if Qiu Tu tried to play tricks, he''d most likely provoke Liu Xiongyuan''s displeasure....


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but glance again at the interrogation room where Qiu Tu was.


    Just then,


    the door to the interrogation room suddenly opened from the inside.


    Qiu Tu, holding a communicator and wearing a smile, walked out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s smile, Liu Fuping quickly approached and asked, "How did it go? Did you succeed?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Of course."


    Then he added softly, "You can always trust me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s confidently cool words, Liu Fuping blinked her attractive eyes and also revealed a smile....


    What followed was simple. After Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan reached an agreement, Jia Wei became of little use.


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    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping conducted another quick interrogation of him, and after learning the exact location where the abducted section and department heads'' families were being held, they sent him back to the guard room.


    Perhaps because he had completed the "mission" given by Larilo, Jia Wei went back to the guard room and lay down on his bed, quickly falling into a deep sleep--clearly, his thoughts had returned to his original state.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, but he quickly and discreetly looked away....


    After leaving the guard room, Qiu Tu bid farewell to Liu Fuping and then drove off in his battered old car to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    This was Qiu Tu''s first visit to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s luxurious City Center Garden, Tang Feifei''s villa was much more modest¡ªit was just an ordinary standalone villa.


    There were duty officers outside the villa. Judging by their uniforms, they were likely confidants from Tang Feifei''s Training Department.


    Tang Feifei had clearly informed them beforehand, so as Qiu Tu drove up, they all saluted and let him through.


    He parked his car in front of the villa, got out, and walked up to the front door.


    Before he could knock, the villa''s front door suddenly opened from the inside, and a fair arm stretched out quickly, reaching for Qiu Tu!


    Caught off guard, Qiu Tu was grabbed by the front of his shirt and yanked into the villa.


    Inside, with the lights dim, Tang Feifei was half-naked, her amber eyes glinting as she watched Qiu Tu with a predator''s focus.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu raised his hands, "May I take a shower first?"


    Tang Feifei''s gaze was icy, "Then together."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "Forget it, I''m not that dirty anyway."


    Tang Feifei, "Then come with me to the bedroom."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Tang Feifei, "Don''t worry, I promise I won''t touch you if you don''t agree."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu felt this conversation seemed somehow backwards, and oddly familiar?


    10 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Don''t worry, I''ll just hold you."


    12 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Why does your leg pop up just by hugging you?"


    15 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "It''s fine, I''ll just rub a bit."


    16 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Hmm, that feels good."


    That night, Qiu Tu once again spent all he had accumulated over time on Tang Feifei!


    It was 3 a.m. before Qiu Tu, after once again expressing his affection for Tang Feifei inside her, suddenly realized:


    Wait a minute! Weren''t those lines that Tang Feifei just used the same ones he often used to trick girls?


    Good lord! He had been played by Tang Feifei!


    But... it was not a loss after all.


    So, the battle went on until dawn....


    ...


    The next day.


    Qiu Tu woke up in Tang Feifei''s bedroom.


    He felt that, aside from a slight soreness, he was far from as exhausted as last time.


    Putting on slippers and throwing on a coat, Qiu Tu stretched and left the bedroom.


    In the villa''s living room, Tang Feifei was dressed in a gray robe, eating breakfast and reading the newspaper.


    And... her assistant, the little spy from the Security Department, Su Xiaowan, was attending to her.


    Probably hearing footsteps from the bedroom, Su Xiaowan looked up and then saw Qiu Tu.....


    Her mouth slowly opened wide, and then her face was full of surprise, "Chief... Chief Qiu?!" Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How... how are you here?"


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected to bump into Su Xiaowan at Tang Feifei''s home.


    He was stunned for a moment, then coughed and said, "Actually... I was discussing a case with Director Tang inside the house last night, do you believe me?"


    Su Xiaowan: ???


    She pointed at the hem of Qiu Tu''s clothing and said, "I might believe you if you were wearing pants, Chief Qiu."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu felt he must have caused a huge psychological shadow for Su Xiaowan.


    So, he could only...


    Reach out and knock Su Xiaowan out cold.


    Looking at Su Xiaowan, who had collapsed into his arms after a karate chop, Qiu Tu said disheartenedly to Tang Feifei, "Do you have a place to bury someone in your house?"


    Tang Feifei was amused by Qiu Tu''s actions.


    She puckered her lips, "The backyard. Just bury her under the tree."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    After laying Su Xiaowan down on the sofa, Qiu Tu went back to his room to change into his own clothes, especially putting on a pair of pants.


    Looking at Tang Feifei, who continued to eat silently, Qiu Tu said, "Tell her I was never here when she wakes up. She was hallucinating."


    Tang Feifei made an "ok" sign with her hand.


    Seeing her so engrossed in the newspaper, Qiu Tu knew she must have seen some important information.


    So, he didn''t bother to embarrass himself further and stepped out of the villa.


    Then, just as he was about to step out the front door, Tang Feifei spoke again.


    Tang Feifei, "Oh, by the way, Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu turned around, a face full of question marks.


    Tang Feifei gave a thumbs-up, "You were great last night."


    Qiu Tu coughed, just about to return a compliment when Tang Feifei added, "By the way, don''t forget you still owe me one night. Try harder next time."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Indeed, this woman never has anything nice to say!


    No matter! He would repay her someday!


    Beastmen shall never be enslaved!


    ...


    Fuming, he drove to the Investigation Bureau.


    Getting out of the car, just as he entered the Investigation Bureau building, Qiu Tu noticed that the lobby on the first floor was crowded with people.


    Qiu Tu glanced around, not seeing what was going on, so he had to grab a detective and ask.


    The detective was initially a little annoyed at being pulled over.


    But when he realized the person holding him was Qiu Tu, his face immediately lit up with excitement.


    He saluted Qiu Tu and then reported, "Sir, here''s the situation."


    "Just now, the Administrative Office issued a ''Bureau Chief Order,'' relieving Minister Jia Shu of his position. Minister Jia Shu''s duties are temporarily assumed by Deputy Minister Cai."


    "Although the wording of the ''Bureau Chief Order'' is very cautious and restrained, who doesn''t know that Minister Jia Shu was taken away by the Diciplinary Department?"


    "So, he must be in trouble."


    "Everyone is gathered here because this news is too explosive, so they all want to see the original document to see if they can find any clues."


    After speaking, the detective smiled and asked, "By the way, sir, do you know any insider information?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and patted his shoulder, saying, "How would I know any insider information."


    "I just found out about it, same as you."


    Having said that, he added, "Alright then, continue your discussion. I have work to take care of."


    After that, Qiu Tu took one more glance at the notice board surrounded by detectives inside and out, then turned and entered the elevator.


    He pressed for the second floor, and as the elevator slowly ascended, Qiu Tu pondered his plans.


    Now that Jia Shu had been dismissed, could he also start the next phase of his plan?


    With this thought, the elevator "dinged" as it reached the second floor.


    Qiu Tu exited the elevator and walked toward the investigation team''s office.


    Inside the investigation team''s office, they were also discussing Jia Shu''s dismissal.


    For most ordinary detectives in the Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu was an untouchable high-ranking official. They lived and died at his command.


    Even though the Diciplinary Department had searched Jia Shu''s office a few days ago, many people couldn''t believe that he would be in trouble.


    And yet, today, such a figure was really dismissed. To be honest, it shocked most of the detectives.


    It was only at this moment that they vaguely began to understand what the Sanctuary represented...


    Entering the investigation team''s office, Qiu Tu looked around at his confidants, then gestured to Liu Fuping to come over.


    --------


    Chapter with 10,000 characters haha. One more chapter will be updated around 20:00. Ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 198 Yan Chen: Qiu Tu Didnt Betray? (11,000 words ask for Monthly Ticket!)

    Your journey continues at My Virtual Library EmpireEven before seeing Jia Shu''s dismissal notice this morning, Liu Fuping knew that Qiu Tu would definitely come to find her.


    So when she saw Qiu Tu signal to her, she immediately got up and walked out.


    Coming to the corridor outside and seeing no one around, Liu Fuping spoke in a low voice without waiting for Qiu Tu to speak, "People from Eastern City have already been sent over. But they need the exact time and location to take action."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said, "I will give you that tonight."


    Although the decision was already made, Liu Fuping was clearly still a bit worried.


    She looked up at Qiu Tu and asked, "Is it really Jia Shu?"


    After a moment''s thought, she said, "Actually, when Jia Wei was telling his story yesterday, I wanted to talk to you about it."


    "Do you know why Director Liu has been targeting Yan Chen all these years and never once targeted Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu also became a bit curious upon hearing this.


    He couldn''t help but ask, "Why?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "Three reasons."


    "First, in that case, even though Jia Wei is Jia Shu''s brother... Jia Shu has always supported executing his own brother."


    "At the time, many rumors claimed that Jia Shu was cold-blooded, sacrificing his kin for his own future and greater good."


    "So Director Liu had no reason to target him."


    "Second, aside from yesterday, Jia Wei had never told anyone else that there was another culprit. Let alone Director Liu, even the case investigation team wasn''t given the slightest hint."


    "So from the beginning to the end, there was no second suspect in that case. No one would think there was another suspect."


    "Under such circumstances, could it be the pressure over the years has been too great, causing him to become mentally ill and experience hallucinations?"


    "Or perhaps, he just wanted to use someone else''s hand to kill Jia Shu, deliberately splashing dirty water on him."


    "After all, Jia Shu wanted to lead him to a dead end back then."


    After mentioning two suspicions, Liu Fuping continued, "Third, and most importantly, it''s said that Jia Shu''s background is not simple, he seems to be highly favored by a big shot in the Sanctuary."


    "His rise to power over the years was supported by that influential figure."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "So Yan Chen doesn''t have the support and protection of influential figures?"


    "Director Liu still went after him."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment, then shook her head and said, "It''s not the same."


    "Yan Chen has backers too, but... they''re just normal support relationships."


    "But Jia Shu... seems to have, well, you know... a different kind of relationship with that big shot..."


    Liu Fuping didn''t finish her sentence, but Qiu Tu already understood what she meant.


    Qiu Tu was surprised for a moment.


    Although Qiu Tu always disliked the saying "no smoke without fire" for fueling rumors, in official circles, many such bits of gossip truly followed the adage...


    ''Could Jia Shu have some illicit relationship with Huang Shangzong?''


    ''That does complicate matters.''


    Indeed, as Liu Fuping explained: normal patronage and this kind of unusual relationship are different.


    If Jia Shu indeed ends up dead, the fury that will arise is completely different.


    However, just as he thought yesterday, Qiu Tu and Jia Shu are now in a deadlock. One of them is destined not to survive.


    Therefore, even if the path ahead is fraught with danger and full of hardships, Qiu Tu has no choice but to continue on!


    Moreover... it''s not he who will make the move. When the sky falls, Director Liu will bear it! What is there for him to fear!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt somewhat reassured.


    After confirming with Liu Fuping that everyone was in place, Qiu Tu turned around and left the investigation team, continuing with his plans.


    He went to the second floor rooftop and found a secluded corner. Then he took out a specially made communicator and called Qin Shuman.


    Lately, Qin Shuman seemed very busy.


    This time, it took seven or eight rings before Qiu Tu''s call was answered.


    Upon answering, the somewhat tired voice of Qin Shuman came from the other end, "Qiu Tu... what''s up?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t start with business matters, but first showed concern for Qin Shuman, "Another all-nighter?"


    At that moment, Qin Shuman stood in the corridor, with a large office behind her.


    Inside the office, many people were working overtime, processing and analyzing information.


    Rubbing her temples, Qin Shuman replied wearily, "Yeah... The intelligence work has just gotten on track recently, coinciding with the incident at Moonlight Lake."


    "The aura around Moonlight Lake has been getting stronger and seems about to condense."


    "To avoid Moon Crescent Lake falling into the hands of the Evil God or United Front, the military here has joined forces with the Eastern City Military Department to surround it thoroughly."


    "But even so, whether it''s the Investigation Bureau, City Hall, other city departments, or even the United Front and Evil God Cultists, everyone is frantically probing for intelligence."


    "So, we''ve been clashing with them constantly."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu asked, "Is there anything I can help with?"


    After briefly thinking it over, Qin Shuman replied with a laugh, "There''s nothing you need to do. This matter is too complicated, involving too many powers."


    "It''s like a giant storm that could swallow everyone."


    "So, it''s best not to get involved if you can avoid it."


    After chatting briefly with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman''s mood evidently relaxed considerably. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leaning against the wall, her already long legs appeared even straighter, and with her army green military uniform, she was the picture of a valiant female officer in the corridor.


    "You must have called me for something else today, right?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu responded with a "hmm" and said, "Yes. I''m ready to proceed with the plan."


    On the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman clearly paused. She fell silent for two seconds before saying, "Stay safe. The whirlpool you''re in isn''t much smaller than mine."


    Qiu Tu solemnly hummed in acknowledgment.


    Then Qin Shuman went on to say, "I''ll have Lin Zuo send the items to you."


    Qiu Tu replied, "Thanks."


    Qin Shuman smiled and said, "What''s there to thank for? Do we need such formalities between us?"


    Just as she said this, a girl''s voice suddenly came from her end, "Major! There''s new developments, we have news from Moonlight Lake...."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman quickly said, "Qiu Tu, wait for me, I''ll get back to you."


    After saying that, she hurriedly hung up the call.


    Listening to the "beeping" sound from the phone, Qiu Tu''s gaze flashed with contemplation: Is there finally a result from Moonlight Lake?


    Then, this great storm that has involved so many powers, is finally about to fully take shape....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of the soon-to-be-established Dongye State....


    This is likewise a huge storm sweeping across the entire Planning Area.


    Two massive storms coming together, it''s hard to tell whether it will be a blessing or a curse, what impact it will have on me....


    ''I must resolve the matters with Jia Shu and Larilo as soon as possible.''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu dared not delay any longer.


    He took out his communicator and dialed another number, preparing to execute the last and most crucial step of his plan....


    ...


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Bureau Chief''s office.


    As usual, the curtains were tightly drawn, not a sliver of sunlight coming through.


    Under the gloomy desk lamp, Yan Chen quietly smoked.


    Lately, Yan Chen felt a bit drained.


    First, the Moonlight Lake found between Xinjie City and Eastern City had attracted the coveting of various powers, requiring him to expend immense effort to protect the interests of the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and his own through complex alliances and maneuvers.


    Then, the Qin Family, his valued source of strength, was uprooted, significantly reducing his surrounding influence, making all his prior plans ineffective.


    Next came the trouble from the Disciplinary Department, which utterly severed his right-hand man, Jia Shu.


    And lastly... Qiu Tu''s public betrayal.


    As Yan Chen''s most promising confidant over the past two years, he actually had high hopes for Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he felt as if he were looking at his archrival, Liu Xiongyuan: similar humble origins, similarly extraordinary abilities, and the same dauntlessness in combat.


    It was precisely because he understood his archrival so well that Yan Chen appreciated Qiu Tu all the more.


    He felt that if Qiu Tu could survive the midway and eventually grow into someone like Liu Xiongyuan, he would have a true great general!


    But who would have known, it seemed he was cursed when it came to these types of people.


    Just because he didn''t "publicly" intervene to help Qiu Tu against Jia Shu, Qiu Tu actually... openly defected!


    Yan Chen truly felt wronged.


    He just wanted to teach his subordinates not to be too indulgent, to toughen them up a bit....


    But who knew that his attempt at toughening up would completely drive Qiu Tu away.


    Moreover, he left so thoroughly.


    Thinking about Qiu Tu''s duplicity towards him these past few days, thinking about Qiu Tu''s public affront to his face, thinking about Qiu Tu''s visit to Tang Feifei''s office, a nameless fire burned in Yan Chen''s chest!


    To be honest, sometimes Yan Chen truly wished he could have Qiu Tu tied up in the office, then point a gun to his head and make him choose once and for all! Ask him, where exactly does he fall short compared to that woman Tang Feifei!


    "Damn it!" The more he thought, the angrier Yan Chen got. He muttered a curse under his breath and grabbed the expensive-looking purple clay teapot from the desk, hurling it towards the ground in front of the desk!


    Just as the teapot was about to collide with the floor, about to shatter and send water splashing everywhere


    Suddenly.... the office door opened, and the teapot froze in place, just a millimeter from the floor.


    Yan Chen paused mid-action, then looked up at the office door.


    At the entrance stood his other right-hand man, Secretary Bai.


    Secretary Bai waved his hand, and the teapot flew back to its original trajectory towards Yan Chen''s desk. He then advised Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, now is a sensitive time, and if the staff find out about your loss of control, it might cause even more widespread panic...."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s well-reasoned advice, Yan Chen''s eyelids drooped, concealing once again the profound depths of his gaze.


    He uttered a soft "hmm" and, while straightening up the nearly shattered purple clay teapot on the desk, inquired, "Is there something you came in for?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s question, Secretary Bai stepped forward, then lowering his head, he whispered, "This is why I''ve come to consult with you. Qiu Tu... wants to see you."


    "Who? Qiu Tu?" Yan Chen nearly thought he misheard the name.


    He looked up at Secretary Bai.


    Seeing Secretary Bai nod, his gaze remained impassive as he asked, "What does he want with me?"


    "Shouldn''t he be seeking out that woman Tang Feifei?"


    At the end, Yan Chen even snorted through his nose, expressing his dissatisfaction with Qiu Tu''s betrayal.


    Secretary Bai said softly, "That''s why I''m consulting with you."


    "Qiu Tu said over the phone... that he has never betrayed you."


    "He deliberately took advantage of the previous opportunity to go undercover at Director Tang''s place, intending to gather intelligence for you."


    "He originally planned to go undercover a while longer before reporting back to you.


    "But last night, he obtained two extremely important pieces of intelligence. He thought they would be of utmost importance to you. So, he had no choice but to risk exposure to meet with you."


    At this point, Secretary Bai paused and then added, "Moreover, he said that due to his delicate position right now, he can''t come to your office. So, he''d like to arrange a meeting elsewhere."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, even with Yan Chen''s cunning and scheming, he struggled to keep control of his facial expression for a moment.


    He looked up with an incredulous expression, staring at Secretary Bai as if he were some fool...


    Qiu Tu hadn''t betrayed him? He was undercover? Are you telling me some kind of fairy tale?


    ------


    I''ll be adding more chapters today, 3 chapters, 11,000 words. Desperately asking for Monthly Tickets!


    We''ll continue with daily 10k words tomorrow.


    But there''s a party tonight, I might drink late.


    Updating at 4 a.m., 5 a.m. might not be possible. Likely, the update will be at about 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. tomorrow, with 3 chapters at once.... let''s just say I''m readjusting my schedule.


    So, there''s no need to wait in the early hours. You can all read together tomorrow evening haha.

 Chapter 200 Deceived Yan Chen Again (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    To know, Qiu Tu had just not only revealed the possibility of Jia Shu being assassinated, but had also divulged a key piece of information: the assassin was none other than Director Liu.Who is Director Liu?


    He''s Yan Chen''s arch-nemesis who has been contending with him for years!


    Even with Yan Chen''s background and abilities, he couldn''t do anything to him, which also shows how formidable Liu Xiongyuan is.


    And in the likely event that Huang Shangzong would assume the role of Speaker of the Dongye State Council, Liu Xiongyuan''s attack on Huang Shangzong''s trusted lieutenant...


    Wouldn''t that directly provoke Huang Shangzong?


    At that time, Yan Chen wouldn''t need to do anything and could simply enjoy watching Huang Shangzong suppress and corner Liu Xiongyuan.


    Wouldn''t that be wonderful?


    Helping Jia Shu would not bring much benefit.


    But not helping Jia Shu would allow him to suppress his enemies.


    Such a choice was not difficult for Yan Chen to make...


    Moreover, from Yan Chen''s perspective, Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan had no connection.


    Yet these past few days, Qiu Tu had become quite close with Tang Feifei and Jiang Pengfei.


    So... the assassination attempt on Jia Shu also implicated another one of his enemies.


    The death of Jia Shu buried a huge mine for his many political adversaries. Yan Chen was very clear about the benefits of this transaction.


    And sure enough, "without surprising him," Qiu Tu continued to share more intelligence. Discover exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    He said, "As for the second piece of intelligence, it is that Director Tang has a profound background within the Disciplinary Department."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu glanced at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen''s expression didn''t change at all. Clearly, he should have already known about Tang Feifei''s background.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued, "Moreover, she has been in contact with Director Liu privately."


    "The channel of communication is her lover, who is also my subordinate: Liu Fuping."


    Yan Chen showed a hint of realization, but it wasn''t a surprise.


    Qiu Tu knew his guess was right: After Jia Shu tested out all the spies, he must have given Yan Chen a list, which certainly included Liu Fuping.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shifted his tone, "However... I have turned Liu Fuping into our Bureau''s spy." S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It was through her intelligence that I learned Director Tang has been in contact with Director Liu all along."


    "And this time, after Director Tang captured several of Jia Wei''s clones, she got to know from these clones the truth about the murder case of Director Liu''s son many years ago. She then conveyed it to Director Liu through Liu Fuping."


    "That led to Director Liu''s assassination attempt."


    Qiu Tu''s concocted story was logically sound and had many details that exactly matched what Yan Chen knew and could be corroborated one by one.


    Thus, for a moment, Yan Chen really began to believe what Qiu Tu was saying...


    He sat quietly in the chair, pondering the "benefits" this matter could bring...


    And seeing this, Qiu Tu also lowered his gaze, silently waiting for Yan Chen to speak.


    He didn''t feel any guilt about "betraying" his own people. Because... he hadn''t actually betrayed anyone!


    Tang Feifei''s background and Liu Fuping''s identity were clearly already known to Yan Chen.


    Moreover, Tang Feifei had not actually colluded with Liu Xiongyuan.


    Even if Yan Chen told Huang Shangzong, Huang Shangzong wouldn''t just believe Yan Chen on his word alone and would certainly investigate.


    But... he could send 100 people, and they would still find no trace of Tang Feifei colluding with Liu Xiongyuan.


    After all, how could they find out something that had never happened?


    And if nothing could be found, how could Qiu Tu be considered a betrayer?


    As Qiu Tu contemplated this, Yan Chen finally spoke.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, then asked, "What is the third piece of intelligence?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu then finally revealed one of his two purposes for the evening, "Chief, the third message is that Director Tang and Commissioner Jiang want to promote me to Deputy Minister of the Political Department!"


    When he heard Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen was visibly startled.


    He looked at Qiu Tu hesitantly, "You''ve risen so quickly recently, how could you possibly keep rising up?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "That''s what I told them too."


    "But they seem very confident."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes revealed a trace of thoughtfulness, then he said, "They seem to have mentioned something about the Disciplinary Department and the decentralization of the Political Department''s powers."


    "I don''t quite understand it."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s face showed a moment of realization, and he immediately understood the thinking of "Tang Fei" and "Commissioner Jiang"...


    He pondered and said, "Indeed, part of the Political Department''s power was decentralization from the Disciplinary Department."


    "If the Supervisors nominate you to take charge of that department, and with the deputy minister position vacant, there indeed is a reason for you to get another promotion,"


    "However... the premise is that I, the Investigation Bureau Chief, do not oppose it."


    As he said this, Yan Chen lifted his drooping eyelids as if finally seeing through Qiu Tu''s intentions, and looked up at him.


    By this point, everything was almost out in the open.


    Whether it was Yan Chen or Qiu Tu, they both knew that regardless of whether Qiu Tu had betrayed anyone before or not, his biggest purpose tonight in seeking out Yan Chen was actually to ensure Yan Chen would not oppose the nomination.


    Simply put, Qiu Tu was telling Yan Chen: he had enough value to exchange for that position.


    Furthermore, as long as he was given this position, he could obtain more information from Jiang Pengfei, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei, providing Yan Chen with even more value.


    In the officialdom, what are there so many betrayals for if not for weighing interests!


    When sufficient interests lie before you, does betrayal really matter?


    Yan Chen clearly saw through the message Qiu Tu wanted to convey, so he stretched out his aged hand, took out a cigarette, lit it, and quietly smoked, as if pondering...


    And Qiu Tu didn''t hurry either. He gazed distantly out of the window, estimating the time...


    If everything went smoothly, Jia Shu should have already left Xinjie City by now, right?


    And he had no idea how Liu Xiongyuan''s assassination plot was proceeding...


    ....


    Meanwhile,


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    A military green jeep drove out of the Investigation Bureau and slowly headed towards the outskirts of Xinjie City.


    In the car, besides the driver, there were only two people: Jia Shu and Tang Feifei.


    Sitting in the back seat, with handcuffs on his wrists and gold-rimmed glasses on his nose, Jia Shu wore a smile that made him seem gentle and harmless.


    Looking at Xinjie City''s scene of desolation through the window, he chuckled at Tang Feifei and said, "Director Tang, was it really worth it to use your family''s resources to struggle against me for the sake of a Qiu Tu?"


    "What kind of magic does he possess to make you treat him so well?"


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Tang Feifei''s face was frosty as she coldly said, "I''m helping him not because he is worth it, but because you crossed the line."


    "Hehe..." Jia Shu laughed softly.


    "Such a high-sounding argument might fool ordinary people."


    "As if there''s so much crossing the line¡ªit''s just our own internal struggles after all..."


    "You might not admit that it''s for Qiu Tu, but you could at least come up with a more believable reason,"


    "Like wanting to cut off one of Yan Chen''s arms... That way, I''d feel a bit more sincerity."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s face remained expressionless, without any desire to reply.


    However, Jia Shu was especially talkative today.


    He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on his nose and then said lightly, "To be honest, I''ve already calculated today''s outcome."


    "From the moment I planned the attack on Qiu Tu, I felt that the chances of success were quite slim."


    "He''s too shrewd; seeing him is like seeing my younger self. Both full of drive, smart, daring to gamble and fight."


    "It''s just, I always believed that I am stronger now than in my youth, which is why I thought of taking one more gamble."


    "But I really didn''t expect that Qiu Tu could get so much help. So I lost the bet..."


    "But it doesn''t matter."


    As he said this, the car slowly left the city.


    Smiling, Jia Shu said, "I have countless opportunities to fail."


    "And he only has one..."


    Listening to his words, Tang Feifei coldly said, "Are you done talking?"


    After saying that, Tang Feifei didn''t wait for his response and turned to the driver; then she said, "Alright, stop the car."


    "My task was to escort him out of Xinjie City."


    "Now that we have left Xinjie City, my mission is complete."


    The driver, upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, slowly stopped the car.


    Tang Feifei took out a key, unlocked Jia Shu''s handcuffs, then put the handcuffs away and waved her hand at Jia Shu, "Goodbye for good."


    After that, she opened the door, jumped out of the car, and headed back towards Xinjie City.


    Meanwhile, in the car she left behind,


    The driver glanced at the rearview mirror, then respectfully took out a communicator and handed it to Jia Shu, "Minister Jia, now that you are safe, you should inform Commissioner Huang that all is well."


    -----------


    I wrote this in advance, haha, still 3 chapters, 10,000 words. The third chapter will be updated around 21:00.


    We''re just 700 tickets away from reaching the target for this event, I need your Monthly Tickets! You can enter a lottery when you cast a Monthly Ticket for our book~~

 Chapter 201 The Death of Jia Shu (10,000-word request for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing the driver''s words, Jia Shu rubbed his sore wrists that had been shackled in handcuffs, then stretched out his hand to receive the specially made communicator from the driver.The driver continued to start the vehicle, driving towards the desolate Disaster Zone.


    Watching the window view change from bustling street scenes to ruins and broken tiles, Jia Shu pulled out the antenna of the specially made communicator, then pressed a number.


    This specially made communicator clearly was not ordinary, as it could make ultra-long-distance calls. However, the downside was that connecting took a certain amount of time.


    So the green jeep had driven almost a kilometer before the communicator was connected.


    A man''s voice, full of vigor and slightly oppressive, came through on the other end, "Young Jia?"


    Hearing the man''s words, Jia Shu''s smile disappeared in a second, his expression becoming serious and respectful, "Elder Huang."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, the man laughed heartily and said, "Out now?"


    Jia Shu respectfully replied, "Yes. And I need to thank Elder Huang for your help."


    The man spoke heartily, "It''s nothing. Those were just trifles. In doing great things, one mustn''t sweat the small stuff!"


    "However... I do have to say something to you," the man continued sternly, "Have you been living too comfortably recently? Letting a nobody get you into such a sorry state!"


    "When I heard Small Tang''s report, I really wanted to drag you back and remake you!"


    "Was this how I taught you all back then?!"


    "Always scheming! Can''t you handle things with integrity?"


    In Xinjie City, Jia Shu was known as the devil who could stop children from crying, and both at the Investigation Bureau and the Political Department, he was a major figure whose smile made everyone afraid.


    Yet in front of this man, he was being scolded like a grandson...


    Even so, his face still bore a full expression of respect as he earnestly spoke, "What Elder Huang has taught is correct..."


    Huang Shangzong snorted coldly, speaking with robust vigor, "In actions and intentions, be forthright and upright. Even when dealing with subordinates, prefer open strategies over secretive schemes!"


    "Dominate through power, crushing with sheer strength!"


    Jia Shu bowed again, nodding, "Yes, Elder Huang."


    Seeing Jia Shu''s good attitude, Huang Shangzong finally didn''t seem so angry. He said heartily, "It''s only because you held the line. Even though you made a mess of things, at least you didn''t lose sight of the important principles!"


    "Otherwise, I wouldn''t even bother giving you another chance."


    After finishing, Huang Shangzong offered comfort, "Let''s call it even on this matter. Later, have Old Ji take you to Jingnan City. There, reflect and contemplate on what you have done during this period."


    "At the earliest next month, or at the latest the following month, Dongye State will be officially established."


    "At that time, I will become the Speaker of Dongye State. Once I settle in, I will look for an opportunity to make arrangements for you."


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Jia Shu quickly expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Elder Huang."


    After finishing, he paused, then added in a soft voice, "I''ve troubled you."


    After hanging up the phone, Jia Shu held the specially made communicator, his gaze somewhat distant as he looked at the scenery outside the window.


    Then he recalled the "special" relationship between himself and Huang Shangzong.


    Contrary to the rumors on the grapevine, in fact, the relationship between Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong was pure and simple; both were normal men, and they certainly did not share any sort of illicit relationship.


    The bizarre rumors were all due to the contrasting personalities of Huang Shangzong and Jia Shu.


    Huang Shangzong was energetic and bold in action, grand in demeanor, and protective of his own. His style of doing things was more overt than covert. He liked to overpower others with swaying momentum and to break rules with brute strength!


    On the other hand, Jia Shu seemed gentle and shrewd, favoring intrigues and schemes...


    Therefore, no matter how outsiders viewed them, these two didn''t seem to belong to the same kind, let alone come together.


    However, in reality, Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong genuinely shared a teacher-student relationship.


    When Jia Shu was studying at the Military Officers'' Academy, Huang Shangzong discovered this promising disciple and took him under his wing to begin his cultivation.


    After Jia Shu graduated, Huang Shangzong first had him stay at the school as an instructor to accumulate experience for two years, then transferred him to the Investigation Bureau to start focused training.


    Throughout the teaching period, Huang Shangzong always imparted grand and righteous paths.


    But for some reason, Jia Shu, who studied earnestly and contemplated deeply, ended up taking a narrow, less-traveled path.


    At first, Huang Shangzong was a bit shocked and doubted that Jia Shu was learning those devious schemes from someone else. But upon closer observation, he discovered that some of Jia Shu''s methods did indeed bear some resemblance to his own...


    Being broad-minded by nature, and adding that, other than his style of conduct, Jia Shu''s capabilities were still excellent and no issues were heard about his character, Huang Shangzong didn''t much mind...


    Having recalled his relationship with Huang Shangzong, Jia Shu''s gaze grew somewhat profound.


    Although he hadn''t completely ruined his prospects this time, he had taken a severe fall.


    This accident had abruptly halted his rise in both rank and strength.


    In the race for opportunities brought by the Cataclysm, this could very well cost him all chances of further advancement.


    With this thought, a chill surfaced in Jia Shu''s eyes.


    ''This matter cannot just be left at that.''


    ''I can''t let all this time be wasted.''


    ''Even if I can''t get a promotion for the time being, my strength must still break through.''


    ''Therefore, I must "Devour" Qiu Tu to become a Third Order Cataclysmic.''


    ''Only by becoming a Third Order Cataclysmic, will my abilities undergo a transformation. Only then can I truly glimpse the Domain that belongs to High Order Catastrophists.''


    Thinking this, a cold glint flickered in Jia Shu''s shadowy eyes.


    As he watched the scenery swiftly receding outside the window, he remembered a "trump card" about Qiu Tu that he held in his hands.


    As Jia Wei had said, Jia Shu''s ability was "Shadow Devouring". This ability required devouring those who "have secrets" in order to continuously improve.


    Thus... this ability also granted Jia Shu the power to "see" the magnitude of a person''s secrets.


    As early as when Qiu Tu had traversed and "first met" Jia Shu, Jia Shu was shocked.


    He discovered that Qiu Tu was enveloped in a thick "darkness". That "darkness" was so vast it nearly covered the entire corridor, obscuring all vision.


    But it must be known that Jia Shu had seen "Qiu Tu" before, and at that time, "Qiu Tu" didn''t have a whiff of "darkness" about him, meaning he didn''t have a shred of a secret.


    As a result, having not seen him for just one day, Qiu Tu had acquired such a huge secret, which immediately piqued Jia Shu''s curiosity.


    That''s why Jia Shu kept a continuous watch and tested Qiu Tu. Eventually, he discovered Qiu Tu''s secret¡ªhe wasn''t the original "Qiu Tu", but a soul from who knows where that had taken up residence in "Qiu Tu''s" body.


    And all of this was likely related to Larilo''s arrival.


    It was precisely for this reason that Jia Shu had been deliberately bringing Qiu Tu and Larilo together during this time to see what kind of chemical reaction would occur.


    Now, although he had played his hand poorly, his "trump card" was still in play.


    All he had to do was reveal this trump card, and Qiu Tu would 100% come under investigation by the Security Department and the Disciplinary Department; he would likely, like Jia Shu, lose his official identity.


    In that case, wouldn''t Qiu Tu, as an ordinary person, be at the mercy of Jia Shu''s devouring?


    ''I can''t give Qiu Tu any more time to grow. Strike the snake at its vital point, when cutting weeds, you must remove the roots!''


    ''If I don''t take him down now, before he has taken off completely, it''s hard to say if there will ever be another chance...''


    Thinking this, Jia Shu made a silent decision in his heart.


    He planned to call Yan Chen as soon as he arrived in Jingnan City and discuss the matter with her.


    Based on his understanding of Yan Chen, as long as there was enough benefit, Yan Chen wouldn''t care about the life or death of such a minor chief!


    Just as Jia Shu was thinking this, he suddenly noticed the green jeep slowing to a stop.


    He snapped back to attention and looked up to see that, not far ahead on the broken road, some ragged disaster survivors wielding sticks had moved many stones to block the road and set up a checkpoint.


    In the Era of Disaster, the roads between cities were made from the decrepit highways of the pre-disaster era. It was common for disaster survivors to set up checkpoints along the way and charge a toll.


    Typically, disaster survivors would scatter when they came across a large convoy, but if they encountered ordinary travelers or a small car, they would definitely try to extort a significant amount¡ªunless those travelers or drivers had weapons.


    Being a driver for Elder Huang, Old Ji was certainly no ordinary person.


    Seeing the scene unfold, he decisively pulled out his handgun, leaned out the window, and fired a shot into the sky!


    A loud "bang!" of the gunshot.


    The disaster survivors who had blocked the road indeed scattered in all directions!


    Although Jia Shu didn''t see anything unusual, a vague sense of unease lingered in his heart...


    It was as if something bad was about to happen.


    His mind raced, trying to find any clue or unconsidered detail he might have missed.


    But before he could think it through...


    Suddenly, two groups of assailants burst out from both sides of the road!


    They were hooded with uniform black knit balaclava hats, wore patches of worn tactical vests, carried rifles, and without hesitation began to wildly shoot at the jeep!


    In front of the high-speed bullets, the jeep''s doors and windows were as easily pierced as if made of paper!


    Hundreds of bullets were fired unrestrained, raining upon Jia Shu and Old Ji!


    Perhaps because the scene was so sudden, neither of them had even the chance to use their Cataclysmic abilities before they were riddled with holes!


    As the bullets tore into Jia Shu''s body, there wasn''t a trace of pain on his face, only shock and disbelief!


    After all... in his heart, he believed he should have had an unlimited future!


    He was supposed to have the chance to devour Qiu Tu, to become a Third Order Catastrophist, to explore the world that belonged to High Order Catastrophists!


    He should have been able to make a comeback and be active in the political scene of the Planning Area again!


    How could he possibly die so abruptly here!


    Who would dare commit such an outrage, daring to assassinate him at such a time!


    Was it Qiu Tu?


    But where would he get these large-caliber weapons specifically designed for Second Order Cataclysmics?


    Was it the United Front?


    But if the United Front wanted to attack him, they wouldn''t know the exact timing of his expulsion to set up in advance, would they?


    Then who was it....?


    In that moment, time seemed to slow down. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At a certain instant, Jia Shu suddenly had a flash of realization and knew the answer!


    It was Liu Xiongyuan!


    Had he finally discovered the secret of that year''s case?!


    With this in mind, and thinking of Jia Wei who fell into Qiu Tu''s hands, and how smoothly he had passed this incident...


    A look of sudden realization finally appeared on Jia Shu''s face...


    ''Indeed... when cutting weeds, you must remove the roots...''


    ''I understand this principle, and so does Qiu Tu...''


    As he thought this, Jia Shu''s body finally collapsed heavily onto the car!


    The bullets continued to pour out ceaselessly; the two groups of assailants shot wildly as if it cost them nothing.


    Finally, after shooting for over twenty seconds, the jeep exploded with a "boom!" and burst into flames, completely engulfed in fire.


    Seeing this, the black-clad teams skillfully pulled out their instruments for a scan, and after confirming there were no survivors, they signalled each other and promptly withdrew!


    From their appearance to Jia Shu''s death, and then their departure, it all took less than a minute, a display of extremely well-trained execution!


    Meanwhile, on a small hill not far from this section of road, a man wearing a clown mask and a suit watched the event unfold, clutching his stomach, and burst into wild, "hahaha" laughter.


    While laughing, he said, "Brother, brother, so you have your day too?!"


    "Hahahaha! So you have your day!"


    As he laughed, tears streamed down his face, and his voice grew fierce, "You have your day too!!"


    Just then, suddenly, an aged voice came into his ear, "Found you..."


    ----------

 Chapter 202 Framing Yan Chen! (10,000-word subscription plea!)

    Upon hearing that hoarse voice, Jia Wei was clearly startled.He leapt to one side, then warily looked towards the direction the voice had come from.


    What he saw was an elder looking like a thunder god, with a lean body, dark skin, but a head of white hair and beard!


    The old man''s eyebrows were thick and wild, like two white swords pointing straight to the heavens. His face was like an ancient pine sculpted by the years, with deep and hard-set wrinkles.


    These striking features immediately made Jia Wei''s pupils shrink violently, as if he had seen a nightmare!


    "Liu Xiongyuan?!"


    The voice seemed to be squeezed out bit by bit from Jia Wei''s mouth.


    He looked at the elder with some disbelief and then said, "How could you be here?"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan stood with his hands behind his back, silently staring at Jia Wei.


    His eyes were like two bottomless ancient wells, pupils black as ink, yet within them burned a ferocious fire, unapproachable to gaze into!


    "I have come to kill you."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Jia Wei''s pupils contracted slightly.


    While cautiously scoping out a direction to escape, he forced a strained smile and said, "Uncle Liu, actually there is something I have been wanting to explain."


    "It wasn''t me who killed Liu Kai."


    "It was my brother!"


    Jia Wei pointed crazily at the burning jeep not too far away and berated, "It was him, all him! He killed Liu Kai and then framed me!"


    He took off his mask, revealing a face not even remotely similar to Jia Shu''s, then started crying while saying, "Back then, Liu Kai and I were as close as brothers."


    "How could I possibly kill him?"


    "It was my brother, he killed Liu Kai and framed me. Really, Uncle Liu!"


    Listening to Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan''s gaze remained as still as an ancient well, simply asking faintly, "Are you done talking?"


    Seeing that there was no effect, Jia Wei''s demeanor suddenly changed, and he pointed at Liu Xiongyuan and cursed, "You damn old fossil! I''m telling you, it wasn''t me! It wasn''t me!"


    "You''ve been hunting me for so many years! Aren''t you tired?"


    "I''ve been hiding from you! Hiding from you! And yet you still found me!"


    "But it doesn''t matter! If you can, just kill me!"


    As he spoke, he patted his face, assuming an insolent expression as he said, "You see my face?"


    "This isn''t my real body! No, it''s not!"


    "Even if you kill me, I will be reborn somewhere else!"


    "What can you do to me then!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan just repeated his question, "Are you done talking?"


    Jia Wei: ...


    Jia Wei "thumped" down onto his knees in front of Liu Xiongyuan, tears streaming as he said, "Uncle Liu, could you let me off this once..."


    "If Little Kai knew you killed me, he wouldn''t rest in peace even in the netherworld!"


    "I truly didn''t know anything about what happened back then. Uncle Liu..."


    Faced with Jia Wei''s series of emotional shifts, Liu Xiongyuan still had only four words for him, "Are you done talking?"


    Realizing that Liu Xiongyuan was impervious to persuasion, Jia Wei dropped the act completely!


    With a spring, he bolted, fleeing like an arrow released from its bow!


    But just then, a gentle murmur from Liu Xiongyuan came from behind him, "It seems you are finished."


    The next second, he felt a shadow suddenly appear beside him like a pestilence clinging to his bones.


    Then, a punch!


    Just one punch!


    The leaping Jia Wei was smashed to the ground with immense force!


    With a "boom!", a loud noise erupted!


    Dust flew up, and a large crater appeared on the ground.


    And as the dust settled, Jia Wei, spitting blood, lay limp in the crater, his bones seemingly shattered completely, his limbs twisted into irregular shapes, utterly unable to move.


    His eyes were lifeless as he looked at Liu Xiongyuan, spitting blood while emitting a faint "hehe..." sound.


    Liu Xiongyuan then landed on the ground, his previously lean body now bulged with power, standing like a colossal mountain peak!


    His dark muscles swelled, each seeming to contain endless strength...


    Step by step, he walked towards Jia Wei in the crater.


    But Jia Wei''s eyes grew dimmer, and the next second, they lost all light...


    Upon reaching the edge of the pit, Liu Xiongyuan''s muscles atrophied, and he returned to his original, gaunt appearance.


    He picked up the corpse as if it were trash and dragged it across the ground, walking towards the distance.


    A long trail of blood marked the path of the body, and groups of men in black, appearing like ghosts, had emerged at his side without a sound, accompanying him forward.


    The entire procession was solemn and respectful, as if part of a funeral...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Garden Villa in City Center Garden. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a long period of quiet contemplation, Yan Chen slowly lifted his head, looked towards Qiu Tu, and then spoke with a touch of emotion, "Qiu Tu."


    "Do you know?"


    "I feel like you have changed a lot recently. You''ve become so different that I hardly recognize you."


    "It''s as if you''ve had an epiphany overnight, starting to understand politics and human nature."


    "Sometimes, I even suspect you''ve become someone else. I want to have you captured and checked by the Security Department."


    Qiu Tu was not the slightest bit alarmed¡ªhe was a captain in the Security Department, after all! And Qin Shuman was aware of his possession, so there was no way any investigation could lead back to him.


    Thus, his gaze was nothing but sincere, "The Bureau Chief is joking. Perhaps it''s just a little bit of learning by osmosis from being around the Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Yan Chen chuckled coarsely, a voice as harsh as a smoker''s cough.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu, "You see, the old you could never have said something so pleasant."


    After uttering some cryptic and peculiar remarks, Yan Chen then added blandly, "Since the Diciplinary Department and City Hall wish to make you the Deputy Director of the Political Department, I... actually don''t have any objections."


    "After all, you''re my soldier. With you in the Political Department, I can feel more at ease."


    "It''s better than them arranging someone else to pull the wool over my eyes."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised in the least.


    Yan Chen was a quintessential political creature.


    In front of such a being, there were only interests, no stances.


    If the benefits of his own promotion outweighed those of appointing someone else, then he would consent to his rise. If the benefits were lesser, he would refuse.


    Everything was that simple.


    Thus, having calculated Yan Chen''s psychology, Qiu Tu dared to come forward openly to negotiate.


    From the results, it appeared he had indeed not misjudged Yan Chen.


    Having achieved the most crucial objective of the night, Qiu Tu relaxed completely.


    Next, he just needed to endure a bit longer to complete his other "task" for the night: fabricating an alibi and framing Yan Chen.


    Ever since learning of the relationship between Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong from Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu had been pondering how to kill Jia Shu while attracting as little attention from Huang Shangzong as possible.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu decided that the most traditional and simplest method was best: creating an alibi and framing someone else.


    Creating an alibi was easy¡ªQiu Tu met with Yan Chen that evening, not at the scene of the attack on Jia Shu.


    Thus, at the very least, he was removed from the ranks of the suspects.


    As for the framing...


    When Qiu Tu visited Yan Chen that night, he had secretly brought a small recording device, capturing their entire conversation.


    This included the part where Qiu Tu informed Yan Chen of Jia Shu''s impending death, yet Yan Chen chose not to warn Jia Shu¡ªdocumenting the full sequence.


    This recording not only proved that Qiu Tu had no intention of killing Jia Shu but had even reported the situation upwards. It also proved that it was Yan Chen''s delay that led to Jia Shu''s death...


    Qiu Tu''s entire plan for the evening was tightly interlinked in a seamless chain.


    Following that, Qiu Tu picked out a few minor pieces of information about Tang Feifei and Commissioner Jiang to share with Yan Chen.


    In this way, they talked for nearly half an hour more.


    Suddenly, the door to Yan Chen''s study was knocked upon with an urgent "bang bang bang". Secretary Bai then pushed through the door and briskly walked in.


    Clearly in possession of urgent news, he didn''t even wait for Yan Chen''s nod before bypassing protocol and approaching Yan Chen.


    However, both Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had guessed what the news might be, so they exchanged a glance and remained silent.


    Approaching Yan Chen, Secretary Bai whispered, "Bureau Chief, the Political Department has just reported that the car transporting Jia Shu was ambushed on leaving Xinjie City."


    "The assailants used high-caliber rifles to spray the entire vehicle with bullets and set it ablaze."


    "Jia Shu and Commissioner Huang''s driver are both dead."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s report, Yan Chen had yet to respond when Qiu Tu''s thoughts drifted afar...


    His mind turned to Jia Wei...


    ---------


    Today there are 3 chapters of 10,000 words. I''ve been a bit busy these last few days, so the third chapter will probably update between 22:00 and 23:00. During the double points period, I''m asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 203 The Death of Jia Wei! (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Qiu Tu hadn''t been bragging in front of Liu Fuping. Yesterday, when he spoke on the phone with Liu Xiongyuan, he indeed conquered the old man in just 1 minute.While Liu Xiongyuan obviously doubted the source of Qiu Tu''s information and his capabilities, Qiu Tu took over the phone call with Liu Xiongyuan and said just one sentence.


    "Nevermind whether I''m using you as a cat''s-paw, nor who the real culprit is. Since both of them are suspects, how about I help you kill them both?"


    With just that simple sentence, Liu Xiongyuan was willing to continue the conversation with Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu spoke very directly in his conversation with Liu Xiongyuan.


    After piquing Liu Xiongyuan''s interest, he immediately asked a question, which was to what extent was Liu Xiongyuan willing to go to avenge his son''s murder.


    Liu Xiongyuan''s answer was also very simple. That was ''Life''.


    Given that, Qiu Tu didn''t hold back. He frankly told Liu Xiongyuan that he wasn''t sure who the real culprit was.


    Was it Jia Shu? Or was it Jia Wei? Perhaps only the two brothers themselves knew the truth.


    But no matter, since Jia Shu was someone Qiu Tu wanted to kill, and Jia Wei was the one Liu Xiongyuan had always wanted to kill.


    As long as the two of them were taken out, both Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu would achieve their goals.


    Killing Jia Shu was relatively simple. Just call in the troops and arm them.


    A batch of rifles was hard to come by for Qiu Tu, a rare and difficult feat.


    However, for Liu Xiongyuan, who had been entrenched in the Planning Area for over a decade, it was nothing but a piece of cake.


    Therefore, all Qiu Tu needed to do was tell Liu Xiongyuan the approximate time of Jia Shu''s release and the likely route in advance, and Liu Xiongyuan could set up an ambush ahead of time, sweeping him away in a short period!


    Compared to Jia Shu, killing Jia Wei was much more difficult.


    After all, Jia Wei''s Cataclysmic ability was creating doppelg?ngers, and each one was not weak in strength.


    Only by killing all of the doppelg?ngers could Jia Wei possibly die for good.


    As for the number of Jia Wei''s doppelg?ngers, Qiu Tu had already calculated that there was a high probability of there being six.


    Out of these six, one had been captured by Qiu Tu, one had escaped on the night he was attacked, and three had been caught by Tang Feifei.


    Only one, who had disguised itself as Jia Shu, remained unaccounted for.


    Thus, the most important thing was to figure out where the doppelg?nger that had disguised itself as Jia Shu that night had gone.


    Therefore, starting a few days ago, Qiu Tu had been racking his brain: If he were Jia Shu and Jia Wei, in order to create an alibi, where should he have gone that night?


    He thought of two places; the first was the Investigation Bureau Office Building, to show his face in front of everyone at work. The second was... Yan Chen''s place.


    After all, as long as he could meet with Yan Chen, the highest official of the Investigation Bureau, and earn his trust, then that would be enough.


    Consequently, Qiu Tu started to investigate whether Jia Shu had come to see Yan Chen on the night of the attack.


    Soon, through Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu learned that a "Jia Shu" did indeed visit Yan Chen that night.


    But because it was a fake, Yan Chen killed it.


    This left only the last doppelg?nger on the run.


    The only problem now was how to lure out this fugitive.


    The method was simple and fit in neatly with the plan: Qiu Tu would tell Larilo about the plot to kill Jia Shu.


    And since Larilo needed Jia Wei''s cooperation to work with Qiu Tu on the case, she would definitely inform Jia Wei of the plan to kill Jia Shu.


    Given Jia Wei''s personality and his hatred towards his older brother, if his brother were to be killed, he would be 100% sure to be there to witness it!


    Not for any purpose, just for a satisfying feeling!


    So even though Jia Wei knew that his last doppelg?nger was extremely valuable and possibly related to his life safety, he would still make an appearance!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu also told Liu Xiongyuan to make a slightly bigger commotion during his preparations to "inform" Jia Wei of the ambush location.


    And when Jia Shu was attacked, it would be best for Liu Xiongyuan to use either Investigation Type or Tracking Type Cataclysmic treasures to scan all the hills and treetops within a 5-kilometer radius! Jia Wei would certainly be there!


    And once the last doppelg?nger roaming outside was taken out, Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei on the other end would also work together to kill Jia Wei''s four other doppelg?ngers...


    In this way, with the six bodies of Jia Wei completely destroyed, the probability was that he was dead beyond any doubt.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look outside the study.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but Qiu Tu always felt as if something in the darkness outside the study was faintly watching him, giving him a chilling sensation...


    But when he tried to look closely, it seemed as if he saw nothing at all.


    ''Maybe it''s just an illusion?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but continue to wonder, ''Feifei and Fuping must have made their move by now, right?''


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Investigation Bureau Political Department Guard Room.


    The underground guard room at Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei each led their people inside.


    Since Qiu Tu had already given word in advance for Liu Fuping, the Guard Room Detective Wang Dawei, eager to defect to Qiu Tu''s side, eagerly opened the door to Jia Wei''s room for Liu Fuping and the others.


    At this moment, Jia Wei sat on the bed with a face full of fury, clearly incensed over the recent death of his clone....


    Seeing Liu Fuping enter, Jia Wei''s expression turned ferocious as he snapped, "What are you doing here!?"


    "Get out!"


    However, Liu Fuping ignored Jia Wei''s impotent rage. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She took out a document and said, "Jia Wei, you are guilty of robbing the pharmacy, murder, and dishonoring someone''s wife and daughter, multiple offenses combined."


    "After trial by the investigation team leader Qiu Tu and signed off by Deputy Director Tang, you are now sentenced to death!"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Jia Wei was visibly stunned. He opened his mouth wanting to say something, but by then Eagle and Ah-Tai had already stepped forward, covering his mouth and restraining his body!


    Although he was a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, having become a criminal, he had to be injected daily with various sedatives to weaken his body. Plus, Ah-Tai possessed innate Divine Power.


    Thus, even as Jia Wei struggled desperately, he was still unable to prevent Liu Fuping from injecting him with the lethal potion.


    As the potion slowly entered his system, Jia Wei''s struggles intensified, but soon after, he quieted down.....


    At the same time, in the basement of Tang Feifei''s villa. Tang Feifei walked out of the basement expressionless, holding three heads in her hands.


    Behind her, three bodies lay in pools of blood.


    In just a few short minutes, all five of Jia Wei''s clones were slaughtered!


    After the last clone was killed, suddenly, the five bodies rapidly decayed, as if undergoing the rotting process of more than ten days in just a few minutes, quickly becoming rank and putrid....


    At this moment, the people standing in front of those five bodies all experienced a momentary daze, deeply affected.


    During that moment, it was as if they could faintly hear a woman''s shrill cursing and screaming!


    ......


    Meanwhile, in the study of Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    After Secretary Bai completed his report, Yan Chen remained expressionless, yet if one looked closely into his eyes, they would detect a hint of a smile within them.


    After all, Jia Shu was truly dead which proved that his archenemy had completely sided against Huang Shangzong. He could now sit back and watch the drama unfold with ease. Secondly, Qiu Tu had proven his intelligence to be of value.


    With these thoughts, after dismissing Secretary Bai, Yan Chen reiterated his promise, "Qiu Tu, your undercover work alongside Jiang Pengfei and Tang Feifei has been very impressive."


    "Continue with your plans as you see fit."


    "As for your appointment as deputy head of the government department, rest assured. After a simple formality, I will not oppose the Diciplinary Department and City Hall''s nomination."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu, who had perfectly accomplished both of his tasks for the day, quickly bowed in gratitude, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen nodded slightly at the words, then waved his hand, "Go on, you should also get some rest now."


    "I still have to deal with the aftermath of tonight''s events."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu bowed to him once again and then finally left the study.


    Outside the study, Secretary Bai was waiting. He nodded to Qiu Tu as he came out, then gestured to lead Qiu Tu away.


    On their way out, Secretary Bai suddenly asked, "Did you kill Jia Shu?"


    Some things can be discussed openly, but others, even with the closest of confidants, must remain unsaid.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu decisively shook his head, "No, it wasn''t me."


    Secretary Bai did not pursue the matter further, and after seeing Qiu Tu out through the side door, he softly said, "Stay safe."


    Qiu Tu nodded at Secretary Bai and then left the Garden Villa to go to his car.


    Indeed, he had eliminated both Jia Shu and Jia Wei tonight.


    But... this had brought him a significant hidden danger: he was now completely at odds with Larilo.


    So, he still had to address this looming threat....


    ---------


    Still 3 chapters and 10,000 words today. I''m a bit busy these days, the 3rd chapter will probably update between 10 and 11 pm. Double periods, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 204 Tugging at the Heretic Goddess Girls Emotions (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```With those thoughts, Qiu Tu stepped away from Yan Chen''s City Center Garden Villa.


    However, just as Qiu Tu had walked three or four meters away.


    Suddenly, he heard Secretary Bai''s voice behind him, "Qiu Tu."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s voice, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn around, looking at Secretary Bai with a bit of surprise, not understanding why Secretary Bai had called out to him.


    Then he saw Secretary Bai quietly looking at him for two or three seconds before slowly beginning to speak,"The Bureau Chief''s wife died a few years ago, and the Bureau Chief was devastated by grief."


    "At that time, the Qin Family approached him, took away the Bureau Chief''s wife''s genes, and then resurrected her..." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After speaking that inexplicable sentence, Secretary Bai turned around expressionlessly, returned to the villa, and closed the side door.


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    As the side door closed with a clang, the entire street became instantly silent.


    In the pitch-dark night, Qiu Tu stood alone on the street, his gaze still on the spot where Secretary Bai had stood, filled with astonishment!


    Although Secretary Bai seemed to have revealed nothing and merely related an anecdote, the significance of this anecdote was too great!


    Before this, Qiu Tu had already known that Old Master Qin had been buying over middle and high-level managers of the Planning Area and the United Front using the "Cloning Female Body" technology.


    He also knew that Old Master Qin once helped a general of the United Front "revive" his wife.


    But he really hadn''t expected that the genes used for "Qin Shuman''s" body would actually be Madam Yan Chen''s!


    The implications of this were utterly different.


    If "Qin Shuman" was just a regular mistress, even one created by the Qin Family to please Yan Chen, at most she would still be a ''plaything''.


    If Qiu Tu''s position was high enough and the benefits were big enough, there could always be room to mitigate this matter.


    Yan Chen would not have a conflict with Qiu Tu over a mistress or ''plaything'' with whom he had no emotional foundation.


    The thorn between the two men, along with time and their cooperation, would eventually vanish.


    This had always been Qiu Tu''s plan.


    But... now, Secretary Bai had burst his "beautiful dream."


    If "Qin Shuman''s" body truly originated from Yan Chen and carried his emotional attachment, then that grudge had become very real indeed!


    ''Damn it!'' Qiu Tu cursed silently in his heart and knew he would have to adjust his strategy towards Yan Chen.


    He couldn''t think about slowly reconciling as he had before...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu grumbled to himself while making several turns, and got into his car.


    Driving the car and following the address given by Lin Zuo, Qiu Tu soon arrived at the entrance of a small villa near Longshan Road.


    He turned off the engine, stopped the car, and got out.


    Approaching the front door of the villa, Qiu Tu knocked.


    Soon, the door was opened from the inside.


    One of Qin Shuman''s subordinates, the new chief of the Investigation Department at the Security Bureau, Lin Zuo, stood in front of Qiu Tu.


    Still with his cold and aloof manner, Lin Zuo''s eyes showed no flicker of emotion upon seeing Qiu Tu, as if Qiu Tu owed him five million yuan.


    After opening the door for Qiu Tu, he turned and walked towards the living room.


    Qiu Tu closed the door behind him and followed along.


    Arriving at the living room, there sat a small, exquisite black safe on the coffee table.


    Lin Zuo sat down on the sofa, took the safe, began to input the code to unlock it, and asked in a seemingly unconcerned manner,"Do you know... Jia Shu is dead?"


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu was not surprised.


    Compared to the Investigation Bureau, the military''s intelligence network was clearly more developed.


    Moreover, Jia Shu was one of Xinjie City''s high-level officials, a person of interest to all sides.


    So when something happened to him, all parties in Xinjie City immediately knew, which was not surprising.


    However, knowing it was one thing, guessing it was related to oneself was another matter.


    Inwardly, Qiu Tu raised Lin Zuo in his estimation and then denied it, "What? Minister Jia is dead? How did he die?"


    As a seasoned actor, Qiu Tu''s acting was quite excellent.


    So when Lin Zuo examined Qiu Tu''s face for several moments, he still couldn''t see anything amiss.


    He could only continue probing,"He was ambushed by a group of men in black."


    "He didn''t even get to use his cataclysmic ability before being covered by concentrated fire and killed."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said with a look of shock,"That group of criminals is too bold!


    "To actually dare to ambush a former high-level official of our Investigation Bureau!"


    "That''s clearly disrespect for our Investigation Bureau!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo took a deep look at Qiu Tu and said,"Last time, Jia Shu was plotting to kill you. Shouldn''t you be happy that he''s dead?"


    Qiu Tu looked at him with a smile,"How could I not be happy? I''m just short of setting off firecrackers to celebrate."


    "But... private matters aside, official matters should remain official."


    "Although Minister Jia and I had a grudge, he was indeed a former high-up of our Investigation Bureau."


    "His death pleases me, but it also shocks me."


    Qiu Tu''s response and performance were flawless, and Lin Zuo could not spot any flaws.


    Just then, the safe had been opened. So Lin Zuo fell silent, instead taking out a very finely crafted small bowl from inside.


    The small bowl was made of white jade, pure and flawless, with a pool of clear water inside.


    Lin Zuo introduced it,"The ''Purifying Jade Bowl,'' a somewhat special Cataclysmic treasure."


    "It has only one function: to remove the positioning marks left by cataclysmic creatures."


    "It''s also because we had this cataclysmic treasure that we dared to let you take the risk of contacting Larilo."


    "After all, even if you encountered any danger with Larilo, we could cut your connection with her any time."


    With that, Lin Zuo carried the bowl to the villa''s first-floor bathroom where Qiu Tu followed.


    Upon arrival, the bathtub was already filled with hot water.


    Lin Zuo poured the water from the ''Purifying Jade Bowl'' into the tub.


    The water, originally transparent, turned a pale gold as soon as it blended with the other water in the tub, quickly spreading throughout the entire bathtub and turning the whole tub golden.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo put the bowl back into the black safe and then told Qiu Tu,"Alright, just soak in it for 10 minutes, and all the marks from cataclysmic creatures on you will be cleansed."


    ```


    "After this, Larilo won''t be able to pull you into a dream anymore."


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu sincerely expressed his gratitude, "Thanks a lot."


    Lin Zuo nonchalantly waved his hand, "No problem. I was just following orders."


    After saying that, he turned around and was ready to exit the bathroom.


    However, just as he had one foot out of the bathroom, he suddenly paused.


    He said, "Qiu Tu... there are actually some taboos on the political scene. For example... you can defeat but not kill."


    "The assassination of Jia Shu may very well touch the nerves of all parties involved."


    After speaking, he didn''t wait for Qiu Tu''s reply or reaction, and turned around to leave the bathroom.


    Watching his retreating figure, Qiu Tu maintained a poker face, but inside, he shook his head with a wry smile.


    He didn''t know the huge repercussions of killing Jia Shu?


    But if he had other choices, why would he possibly choose this path?


    Was it like he willingly became an enemy of Yan Chen?


    If it weren''t for the intelligence provided by Secretary Bai tonight, he probably would have even considered finding an opportunity to make a complete reconciliation with Yan Chen...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shook his head, then locked the bathroom door from the inside and began to undress.


    After undressing, Qiu Tu found that the bathroom was well stocked with towels and a change of clothes.


    ''It seems Lin Zuo really has the potential to be a great steward. He''s taken care of every detail.''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu stepped into the bathtub.


    The golden liquid slowly submerged his body, washing away all the marks of the Evil God...


    In a daze, Qiu Tu seemed to hear Larilo''s piercing scream and curses!


    Clearly, Qiu Tu had first "betrayed", plotted to kill her most important follower, and now had cleansed the traces of her dream entry, completely breaking free from her control, infuriating her greatly!


    For Larilo, tonight was a huge failure!


    And it also allowed Qiu Tu to finally relax completely: previously, he had put himself in the game, using himself as bait to lure Larilo and set up Jia Shu and Jia Wei, living in constant fear every day!


    Worrying about being pulled into a dream by Larilo at any time, Qiu Tu didn''t even dare to sleep at night!


    And so, after completely dealing with the brothers Jia Shu and Jia Wei, Qiu Tu had finally removed the crisis of Larilo''s dream invasion.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision.


    After he had done all this, the countdown in the upper left corner indeed underwent some changes.


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (7 days)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    [Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)]


    The original [Commitment to the Evil God], which only had 2 days left, slowly became infinity, just like the Threat in the Darkness...


    This was something that had never happened before.


    Previous Crisis Countdowns either froze, or were completed and triggered the next one. It was the first time for such a direct change in time.


    Looking at the display on the Crisis Countdown, Qiu Tu, submerged in the bathtub, stroked his chin and pondered slowly.


    ''Is this telling me... the crisis has been temporarily delayed by my actions, but it hasn''t been overcome?''


    ''So... if Larilo finds another opportunity, as long as I don''t provide any intelligence, she will still come to kill me?''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu found the [Crisis Countdown] quite interesting.


    After all... this really matched his understanding of Larilo¡ª that Evil God clearly wasn''t one to easily forgive, and given how he had schemed against her, she certainly wouldn''t let him off the hook.


    ''Fortunately, I have made other preparations.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu indulged in the golden warm water, closed his eyes to rest, and began to recall and mentally rehearse the "Emotional Fraud Manual"...


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Qiu Tu was soaking in the bath,


    Lin Zuo was driving away from the secret base.


    On the road, Lin Zuo''s expression was profound.


    Even though Qiu Tu hadn''t shown any cracks in his expressions or actions from the time he entered until Lin Zuo left, he was, after all, a participant in the entire incident.


    So, he was almost 100% certain that Qiu Tu was behind it all.


    ''Boldly attacking a former high official of the Investigation Bureau...''


    ''Such decisiveness and ruthlessness!''


    Even Lin Zuo understood the importance of rooting out problems, but he also knew that if he were in Qiu Tu''s place, he definitely wouldn''t dare to make such a decision.


    With this thought, Lin Zuo couldn''t help but let out a deep sigh.


    ''That''s what it means to be someone cut out for great things. I really can''t compare...''


    Thinking this way, Lin Zuo felt as if he had shed some burden, making himself feel much lighter...


    ...


    After the bath and a rinse off, Qiu Tu dried himself and got dressed then headed to the bedroom and went straight to sleep.


    Indeed, without the mark of the Evil God, Larilo could no longer harass Qiu Tu.


    Thus, Qiu Tu''s sleep was extremely sweet and secure...


    The next morning, Qiu Tu got up feeling utterly refreshed, stretched his body, and felt that life was wonderful.


    After washing up and having a simple breakfast, Qiu Tu took out the ancient coin he had received from the ''Lone Wolf'' from his pocket.


    When does a person''s favorability toward another person increase the fastest?


    Of course, it''s... when you first let her fall into Hell, then lift her to Heaven.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu had completely cut off his connection with Larilo and added to that the killing of Jia Wei, Larilo must have felt like she''d lost her consort as well as her troops, probably so angry she couldn''t sleep all night!


    If he now contacted Larilo and "switched sides" back to her, how would she react?


    And the Heretic Goddess Girl? Isn''t she still a woman after all?


    If she''s a woman, then she can be manipulated emotionally with the "Emotional Fraud Manual"!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu began to contact Larilo in the way he had seen in the Silver Key Bee, using the ancient coin...


    ------


    Three chapters with a total of 10,000 words haha. I will continue with 10,000 words tomorrow! Asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 205 Qiu Tu: I Like You (10,000 Words - Please Vote with Monthly Ticket!)

    Recalling the method Jia Wei used to contact Larilo.Qiu Tu fiddled with the coin, then rubbed the front side three times with his thumb, the back side four times, and finally placed the coin on the table, patiently waiting for a response.


    One second...two seconds...three seconds...


    He didn''t know if there was a problem with the steps, or if this communication required an advance reservation. Qiu Tu had waited a full minute and still, Larilo did not appear.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly.


    ''Rub? Could it be that this Treasure isn''t a standard one?''


    ''So it can''t be activated in the same way?''


    Qiu Tu was so certain he could contact Larilo because he speculated that given Larilo''s influence in the real world, it was improbable for her to use a non-standard Cataclysm Prop for communication.


    If it was a mass-produced standard communication prop, the chances were high that the method to use it would be the same.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu once again reviewed his logic.


    In the end, he chose to trust his speculation¡ªthe method of using the prop was correct!


    And if there was nothing wrong with the way the prop was used, then there were numerous possibilities why Larilo had not connected the call.


    Perhaps...now was inconvenient?


    Perhaps...the timing was incorrect?


    Or perhaps...this Ancient Coin could identify a person''s aura, and Larilo did not answer because she detected the wrong one attempting to contact her.


    But...regardless of the reason. As long as he continued trying, he would eventually make contact.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu started to contact Larilo over and over again...


    In this manner, Qiu Tu repeated the "dialing" process a total of seven or eight times.


    Just when he felt that his hand was about to rub the coin shiny, at last!


    The ancient coin slowly vapourized into the air, and Larilo''s head appeared within it!


    She was clearly furious, her entire face twisted with anger!


    Her eyes were ablaze, and her voice carried a bone-chilling coldness, "Didn''t I tell you not to contact me during the day!"


    "Contacting me over and over, are you testing my patience?!"


    "Do you believe I can make your soul never have a day of peace again! Let you suffer the pain of being struck by heavenly lightning every day!"


    After furiously scolding the "person contacting her," Larilo finally "saw" the person in front of her clearly!


    The next second, she paused, then her face filled with shock and disbelief, "Qiu Tu?!"


    "Why is it you?!"


    Possibly realizing her own lapse, Larilo hurriedly changed her expression back to a serious one.


    Her bronze-colored pupils looked at Qiu Tu, and she asked again, "You dare to contact me still?"


    Qiu Tu, having witnessed all of Larilo''s expressions and knowing his method had worked, felt very confident.


    He looked at Larilo, then smilingly said, "Your Highness, why would I not dare to contact you?"


    "Have you forgotten? I am to be your future Archbishop."


    Perhaps because it wasn''t an Enter Dream, Qiu Tu was not at all afraid that Larilo would hurt him in a rage, so he was incredibly relaxed. He even dared to use the promise Larilo had made to him as a counter-attack.


    Sure enough, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo let out two cold "hehe" laughs, ominously saying, "Archbishop... truly worthy of being my Archbishop."


    "Calculating both me and my followers into your scheme, playing us round and round!"


    "Do you know how many resources are needed to cultivate six Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened clones? Hehehe..."


    Larilo was evidently still on the verge of exploding, but Qiu Tu, who had already figured out how to pull at her emotions, was not concerned in the slightest.


    He sat on the large sofa of the villa, legs crossed, not as if meeting a deity but rather like he was listening to a subordinate''s report.


    He stretched out a finger to analyze for Larilo, "Your Highness. I understand that you are angry with me."


    "But this blame can''t just be thrown on me willy-nilly."


    "First of all, the bodies you helped Jia Wei cultivate, one fell into the hands of the Investigation Bureau, one was killed by Yan Chen, and the other three are under the control of the Diciplinary Department."


    "Do you honestly think you can rescue them all?"


    "Stop dreaming. No Evil God Cultist who falls into the hands of the Sanctuary''s departments ever comes out alive."


    "I just had them detonate at the same time."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s emotions indeed stabilized a bit, but even so, she was still not letting Qiu Tu off the hook¡ªher beautiful almond-shaped eyes staring fixedly at him.


    Probably because it was a remote communication, if she were in front of Qiu Tu now, she would have already flayed him alive!


    After all, not only had her follower, whom she invested so many resources into training, died, but her entire face was almost battered to a pulp by Qiu Tu!


    Last night, after discovering that she had been betrayed by Qiu Tu, she started to retrace his recent actions.


    Soon, she discovered all sorts of clues!


    Thus, she finally confirmed that Qiu Tu had never planned to side with her from the start, nor had he ever thought about cooperating with her! He was simply using her!


    Such a discovery was like trampling her dignity as a High Order Cataclysmic Creature into the mud! How could she not hate Qiu Tu!


    So, now hearing Qiu Tu so bluntly talk about killing her follower, her rage was even more inflamed!


    Her voice, as if squeezing through her teeth bit by bit, questioned, "Why would you do this?"


    "What benefit do you get from killing Jia Wei!"


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    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu actually propped his chin in thought.


    After a moment, as if finally finding a reason, his eyes lit up, and then he said, "Your Highness!"


    "Before, I actually didn''t know why I insisted on killing Jia Wei."


    "It was you who reminded me, everything must have a purpose, right?"


    "So, since I did it, there must be a reason in my heart."


    "Therefore, I thought for a long time, analyzing my heart, and finally found the reason!"


    Qiu Tu sincerely said, "Maybe... I don''t want to be an Archbishop, but aspire to become the Pope! I want to be your right-hand man on the Road to Godhood! To be the confidant of your life! Your partner!"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu earnestly said, "Your Highness, I... like you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo was dumbfounded.


    Even as a High Order Cataclysmic Creature, possessing human-like intelligence and emotions, Qiu Tu''s series of tricky moves still left her somewhat confused.


    ''Like me¡­ so remove the people around me?''


    ''Oh¡­ remove the men around me.''


    ''Does this even make sense?''


    ''Like me, so doesn''t want to be an Archbishop, but wants to be the Pope?''


    ''Likes me, so erases my mark?''


    Larilo felt that such logic was utterly shitty, making no sense at all!


    She was intent on scolding Qiu Tu again, but when the words came to her lips, she realized she had somehow become momentarily speechless¡­


    After all¡­ although the situation was indeed bizarre, it somehow seemed barely explainable?


    ''What''s wrong with me? Why am I starting to make excuses for Qiu Tu?''


    Larilo felt she was becoming a little weird.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu keenly noticed the change in Larilo''s state.


    He kept his facial expression unchanged, but inside he was somewhat snickering.


    Emotional Fraud Manual, 108 ways to enhance a relationship number 49: Women are an "egotistical" emotional creature.


    Once they discover that you are a "suitor" of theirs, although they may become aloof and seem even more unapproachable,


    ...in reality, they will be more tolerant of some things you do and also pay more attention to you.


    So, when you find that you have annoyed a woman, just directly "confess" to her. She will be momentarily dazzled and start to reanalyze the whole matter.


    Note: This "confession" is a false confession, please do not continue any further pursuit. Otherwise, you will become a sycophant and it will be counterproductive.


    Note 2: This method is for the use of scumbags flirting only. Do not use for other purposes.


    Recalling the record from the Emotional Fraud Manual, and given Larilo''s current bewildered state, how could Qiu Tu not guess that Larilo was suffering from an overload of shock to her brain?


    He believed that Larilo must already be questioning her life by now. But... just this was still not enough.


    He had made Larilo fall into hell last night, and this morning was meant to make her soar to heaven.


    So, he paused, and then said, "Your Highness, perhaps my confession just now was too sudden, making it somewhat difficult for you to understand or accept."


    "But all of that is my true feelings."


    Qiu Tu said, "Moreover, I have never betrayed you." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t you want to know the exact time when Moonlight Lake will become fully solidified?"


    "Actually, I have already figured it out for you."


    ------

 Chapter 206 Evil God: Qiu Tu is My Devout Believer (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    If Larilo had felt just now that the entire affair''s twist left her a bit bewildered,now, she felt truly shocked to the point of stupefaction.


    ''What did Qiu Tu say?''


    ''He didn''t betray us?''


    ''How could he have the audacity to say such a thing?''


    ''What? He completed the mission I gave him and discovered the exact timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment?''


    ''Then... maybe it''s really possible that he didn''t betray us?''


    At this thought, Larilo felt her mind a mess for a moment.


    However, she suppressed her wild thoughts and started discussing the matter at hand.


    She asked, "You say you have figured out the timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment?"


    "When will it be?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "In four days."


    Qiu Tu said, "You might not know, but I actually have some connections in the Security Department."


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    "I can get some inside information."


    "Yesterday, we happened to talk about Moonlight Lake and, with a few probing questions, I successfully obtained this intelligence."


    He paused, then continued, "My friend mentioned that the aura emitted by Moonlight Lake is getting stronger and there are already signs of it coalescing."


    "Thus, through investigation and calculation, they determined that the estimated time for Moonlight Lake''s formation should be in four days."


    "To prevent the news from leaking, and to avoid anyone coming to steal the ''Tears of Moonlight'', both the Xinjie City Military Department and the Eastern City Military Department dispatched a battalion of troops to encamp around Moonlight Lake."


    "They''ve surrounded Moonlight Lake from the inside out."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo furrowed her brows tightly, temporarily forgetting to continue the topic of Qiu Tu''s betrayal.


    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Is this true?"


    Qiu Tu nodded sincerely, "Of course it''s true."


    ... As if.


    Of course, this was all made up by Qiu Tu!


    Although Qiu Tu had a good relationship with Qin Shuman, they always maintained a bottom line with each other: not to pry into each other''s work.


    So, even though yesterday Qiu Tu happened to bring up Moonlight Lake with Qin Shuman,


    and Qin Shuman happened to mention that there had been recent movements at Moonlight Lake and that both city''s military departments had already begun deploying troops,


    she didn''t reveal the actual time of Moonlight Lake''s congealment or the strength of the troops sent by the military departments.


    However, with these small details, it was sufficient for Qiu Tu to fabricate a logically coherent fraud.


    After all, the "Crisis Countdown" only required him to resolve difficulties within a time limit and fulfill his promise to Larilo¡ªto obtain the timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment.


    But it didn''t require that the timing he provided be real...


    In any case... Larilo had no way to verify it with someone else. So, this became the "real" timing!


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this way, possibly because Qiu Tu''s acting was too convincing, Larilo hesitated for a few seconds before finally nodding and praising, "Well done, I didn''t expect you, Qiu Tu, to really get such a high-level secret."


    She continued to lure him as usual, "Rest assured, as long as you can keep this up, the title of Pope will definitely be yours in the future!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Your Highness, becoming the Pope is only my dream."


    "What I truly wish for is to be by your side at all times."


    "So, please don''t doubt me any longer."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu took the opportunity while the iron was hot to explain the reasons behind his actions from the day before.


    He said, "As for Jia Wei''s death, I won''t say much. I really was jealous that he could always accompany you."


    "Furthermore, as Liu Xiongyuan disagreed with only killing Jia Shu and insisted on killing both brothers together, that''s why I betrayed him to Liu Xiongyuan."


    After a pause, Qiu Tu said, "After all, there will always be sacrifices on the path to fulfilling your grand ambitions."


    "So why couldn''t the sacrifice be Jia Wei?"


    "Therefore, once I decided to sacrifice him, I made my decision: to suffer Jia Wei''s agony, to bear the infamy myself! To spare you any discomfort."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu pointed at his own body, then said, "Additionally, you must have been angered by me removing your Summoning signs last night, right?"


    Although Qiu Tu posed it as a question, he didn''t wait for Larilo''s reply and directly said, "Your Highness, you have truly misunderstood me there."


    "The reason I was investigating you was actually all the Security Department''s doing,"


    "They knew I had been marked by you, so when the incident was briefly resolved, they were bound to help me get rid of the mark."


    "Honestly, I didn''t want to remove this mark, but I had absolutely no say in the matter; I had no choice."


    "If I objected, it might even reveal my identity."


    "That''s why my summoning mark was cleansed."


    At this point, Qiu Tu even proactively extended his hand, then said, "If you don''t believe me, you can mark me again."


    "I absolutely won''t resist!"


    After hearing Qiu Tu explain the entire "ins and outs" of the situation, Larilo couldn''t shake off the feeling that something was odd, but had to admit that everything Qiu Tu said was logically consistent.


    ''So... could it all really be just a misunderstanding?''


    ''Has Qiu Tu truly become my devout follower?''


    For the first time, Larilo felt her brain wasn''t up to the task...


    But since Qiu Tu had told her the time of the Moonlight Lake''s convergence, she could just wait a couple of days to see if the information was accurate, and use that to determine Qiu Tu''s allegiance.


    After all... there were only four days left.


    And so, like that, Qiu Tu once again briefly earned Larilo''s trust, and because he didn''t need the summoning mark anymore, he no longer had to live in fear in his dreams.


    Qiu Tu planned to find a way to communicate more with Larilo in the next two days, locate her current body, and then resolve her once and for all!


    And if he couldn''t find her?


    Then Qiu Tu would just toss away the ancient coin, just like last night, and have no further dealings with Larilo.


    ¡ªAfter all, Larilo had no way of dealing with him now.


    With that in mind, after hanging up the communication with Larilo, Qiu Tu tidied up, put on his uniform, fastened his buttons, and then drove away from the villa complex.


    Arriving at the Investigation Bureau Office Building, the lobby on the first floor was exceptionally lively today, with agents from various departments discussing gossip in groups.


    Out of curiosity, Qiu Tu listened in and heard them discussing the new candidates for Minister and Deputy Minister of the Political Department.


    "Have you heard? First thing this morning, the Bureau Chief called the high-ranking officials to a long meeting in the conference room."


    "The main purpose was because Minister Jia was dismissed, which led to adjustments in the Political Department."


    "I''ve heard the reshuffle will be significant. Not only do they need to select a Minister from among the Deputy Ministers, but they also have to pick a Deputy Minister from among the staff chiefs. Then, a Deputy Staff will take over the position of the vacant staff chief..." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So a lot of positions will open up."


    Another person replied, "Yeah, yeah. I heard about it too."


    "Who do you think it will be?"


    The first agent thought for a moment, then said, "For the Minister, I definitely favor Minister Cai. After all, he''s currently in charge of running the Political Department, and he hasn''t made any major blunders."


    "These points show that he is capable and has the appreciation of the Bureau Chief behind him."


    "As for the position of Deputy Minister... I think Section Chief Guan from the Espionage Division seems very promising."


    "After all, espionage is one of the biggest operations in the Political Department. Plus, she''s a long-standing member there."


    Upon hearing this, another agent countered, "I think Deputy Division Chief Xin has a better chance."


    "The Action Division is the ace division of the Political Department. And he has worked in the Action Division for many years, which makes him a strong competitor."


    Hearing the agent''s counter-argument, another agent chimed in to rebut, "Isn''t it possible that they''ll bring in a chief officer of Deputy Division Chief level from another department?"


    "The Political Department is one of the ace divisions in the Bureau, not only powerful but also high-ranked."


    "All the Deputy Division Chiefs from various departments are probably fighting tooth and nail to get in there."


    "With such a great opportunity now, they won''t give up."


    As Qiu Tu walked, he listened. He almost got the full rundown of the candidates from these agents'' discussions.


    The only pity was... among the many agents discussing the Deputy Minister candidates, not a single one thought he could become Deputy Minister.


    After all, in the eyes of most ordinary agents, Qiu Tu had risen too quickly recently. Constantly skipping levels, he had no chance of competing for such an important position this time.


    And let''s not forget... Qiu Tu had just had a falling out with Yan Chen.


    In choosing a Deputy Minister, Yan Chen had a veto vote.


    As long as Yan Chen didn''t agree, Qiu Tu had no chance of becoming Deputy Minister!


    ------

 Chapter 207 Borrowing Your Secretary to Have Some Fun (10,000 Words for Subscription)

    ''It seems they really don''t think highly of me,''''So when the news that I''m going to be the Deputy Division Chief comes out, it will definitely shock everyone to the core, won''t it?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu walked towards the elevator, preparing to patiently wait for the news on the 9th floor.


    Just as the elevator doors were slowly closing, leaving only a sliver of an opening, suddenly! A large hand violently grasped the elevator doors.


    Feeling the obstruction, the doors shuddered violently and then slowly reopened.


    Noticing the unexpected, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the elevator entrance.


    Then he saw the slowly reopening doors reveal a man in a plain green uniform with three bars on his shoulder standing there.


    It was none other than Qiu Tu''s defeated opponent from a few days prior: Zheng Tao.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s expression did not change at all, as if the person who had been "slapped" in the face just a few days ago wasn''t him.


    Since they belonged to different departments, and it wasn''t a formal meeting, Qiu Tu didn''t salute but merely nodded slightly and then greeted, "Director Zheng, you''re late today. That''s not like you."


    "You normally..."


    "shouldn''t you be working overtime late into the night, never leaving the office?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s forehead veins twitched slightly. Then he snorted softly, ignoring Qiu Tu''s mockery and walked straight into the elevator.


    The elevator doors slowly closed, and this time no one else came to interrupt.


    So, in the slowly ascending enclosed space, there were only Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao.


    Whether it was the awkwardness of sharing the same space or Zheng Tao being annoyed by Qiu Tu''s earlier sarcasm was unclear.


    After staring at the elevator doors for two seconds, Zheng Tao slowly began, "Chief Qiu, although we''re both ''chiefs'', my position is one level higher than yours."


    "You are in fact just a normal Principal Staff."


    "So, in the presence of a superior, you should show respect."


    Seeing Qiu Tu remain unmoved, Zheng Tao continued with a cold face, "Moreover, don''t think that there''s just a one-level difference between us, but between Principal Staff and Deputy Division Chief there is an insurmountable chasm!"


    "Do you know? As soon as you become a division chief, even if only a Deputy Division Chief, you will have access to a luxurious villa and sedan provided by the City Hall in the city center."


    "You''ll have dedicated housekeepers, drivers, and secretaries."


    "And moreover, all of your daily necessities will be supplied through special channels! You can say that in terms of clothing, food, housing, and transportation, there is absolutely no need to worry."


    "You''ll be enjoying the top resources of Xinjie City."


    Having said that, he glanced at Qiu Tu once more and said coldly, "And you?"


    "If I remember correctly, the car you''re driving now was swindled from Director Qin, wasn''t it?"


    "I saw it yesterday; not only is the body beaten up, but even the window glass is shattered."


    "Also, you are still living in a tube building in the slum area, right? It must be unpleasant stepping over filthy sewage and garbage every day to and from work, isn''t it?"


    "Your boots have also suffered along with you."


    "Moreover, although your position is Principal Staff, since you haven''t officially taken over the work of the Action Division, you don''t even have your own office. Generally, you have to use an empty conference room for phone calls and meetings, right?"


    "Hmm... As for a dedicated secretary or driver, there''s no need to mention that."


    "Now, do you understand the gap between us?"


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu actually understood Zheng Tao quite well:


    It was nothing more than the fact that he had slapped Zheng Tao''s face so hard yesterday, causing him to lose face and prestige throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    So, upon seeing him this morning, Zheng Tao wanted to strike at him from another angle to regain some of that lost face.


    But the angle he chose was clearly wrong.


    Let alone the fact that he had just changed villas yesterday, there was the matter of the Deputy Division Chief position...


    He was about to get promoted as well.


    This wasn''t going to hit him at all!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also looked towards Zheng Tao and then said with a smile, "You''re absolutely right, Director Zheng."


    "As a former subordinate of yours, I am greatly inspired. That''s why I''ve decided to work hard to rise another level, to reach the same heights as you."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu, as if he just remembered something, suddenly said, "Oh right, didn''t the Political Department just recently have a Deputy Division Chief position open up?"


    "I think it suits me perfectly!"


    "In a moment, I''ll have a chat with the Bureau Chief to see if I can get that position."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao was stunned for a moment, then looked at him with disdain as if he were crazy.


    Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department?


    Qiu Tu was dreaming an impossible dream. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Despite the fact that this position''s rank is the same as a Deputy Division Chief, the value and authority it holds are the highest among all Deputy Division Level positions.


    Forget about the heads of various government departments, even he, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau, wanted to compete for it. There was even more interest from senior Deputy Division Chiefs of other departments.


    So, there was no way it was Qiu Tu''s turn.


    However... as a dignified person, Zheng Tao had just "counterattacked" Qiu Tu a couple of times, which was already quite extraordinary.


    So, even though he felt that Qiu Tu was delusional, he just gave Qiu Tu a cold look and couldn''t be bothered to engage with him anymore.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t the type to be unrelenting when he had the upper hand, so seeing that Zheng Tao had given up, he didn''t stimulate him further.


    Soon, the elevator rose to the second floor, and the doors slowly opened. Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    Zheng Tao stepped out of the elevator.


    But just as he was already stepping out, Zheng Tao suddenly stopped in his tracks.

 Chapter 207 Borrowing Your Secretary to Have Some Fun (10,000 Words for Subscription)_2

    It seemed he couldn''t quite hold it back, so he turned his head towards Qiu Tu and said expressionlessly, "You can''t possibly get promoted. So the gap between us can never be bridged."Qiu Tu didn''t expect Zheng Tao to actually make a parting shot.


    He laughed, then confidently put his hands in his pockets and asked, "What''s the wager?"


    Zheng Tao, "You suggest."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered, "You have a dedicated secretary, right?"


    "Lend me your secretary... for two days of fun."


    "Oh, right, and your driver and your car as well."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s face turned an ugly shade of red.


    He didn''t agree immediately but coldly glanced at Qiu Tu and said, "You''ve been promoted to deputy director, you''ll have your own dedicated secretary, driver, and car, what do you want mine for?"


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly spread his hands, "Can''t I want two?"


    He said, "Two secretaries, two drivers, two cars¡ªwhat a show of status!"


    "One secretary accompanying me, another carrying my dog. One car driving me, another transporting my dog."


    "Just thinking about it makes me happy!"


    Zheng Tao was so furious his face turned purple!


    He snorted coldly and stormed off!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu laughed loudly "Ha ha," and then called out after him, "So, are we betting or not, Director Zheng?"


    From a distance, came Zheng Tao''s voice squeezed through clenched teeth, "Bet!"


    Seeing that Zheng Tao actually took the bet, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, feeling that yesterday''s events really got to Zheng Tao.


    Such a calm person actually dared to gamble with him at a moment when nothing was certain.


    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu suddenly considered another possibility:


    Shit! Zheng Tao''s secretary isn''t an ugly monster, is she?!


    ''Damn... I should have inquired beforehand before making my move.''


    ''I''m still too young!''


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Zheng Tao, fuming with anger, angrily returned to his second-floor office.


    He pushed the door open.


    In the office, a beautiful woman in her thirties was wiping the table.


    She was dressed in a black pencil skirt and white blouse. Her figure was curvy and her posture supple.


    Perhaps because her curves were so enchanting, even the simplest of business attire was worn with endless charm.


    Hearing the door open, she lifted her heavy upper body and then turned her head to look over.


    Seeing it was Zheng Tao, she smiled and greeted him warmly, "You''re back? How was the talk with the Special Service Department? Did you get upset?"


    Hearing the woman''s familiar concern, Zheng Tao didn''t feel the slightest bit happy. He frowned and said sharply, "I''ve told you many times!"


    "This is the Investigation Bureau! Not at home!"


    "You are my subordinate, not my wife!"


    "When you see me, you should address me by my position, salute, greet properly!"


    "I''ll let it slide since there''s no one else around today. But if others were present, who knows what rumors might start flying!"


    "If I then leave an impression on the Bureau Chief that I can''t separate public from private matters, that I don''t focus on my work, how am I supposed to advance, how am I supposed to carry out my duties!"


    As he said this, perhaps thinking of his bet with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s face became even darker.


    He said, "I disagreed with you coming to be my secretary from the start."


    "Confusing personal issues with work is a big taboo."


    "But you kept pestering me, saying I''m too busy, hardly ever at home, wanting to be by my side to take care of me! I had no choice but to transfer you over."


    "If you continue like this, then you can just roll back to the Administrative Office!"


    The beautiful young woman obviously didn''t know about the conflict that had just occurred between Zheng Tao and Qiu Tu.


    She really thought it was her untimely concern that had irritated her husband, and her eyes reddened slightly...


    But seeing the glum look on Zheng Tao''s face, she dared not argue and could only bow respectfully, saying aggrievedly, "Yes, sir."


    Seeing her like that made Zheng Tao even more irritable. He stared at the beautiful woman for a moment, then waved his hand dismissively, "Alright, alright, leave."


    "Call Old Shi over. I want to have a chat with him about cooperating with the Special Service Department."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the beautiful young woman nodded, "Okay...."


    Then, she walked towards the door. When she reached the doorway, she turned back to look at Zheng Tao and said softly with concern, "Ah-Tao... take care of your health. You stayed up all night again yesterday; your body won''t be able to take it."


    "And... as soon as you arrived at the Public Security Bureau, you had everyone working overtime, and everyone is..."


    Hearing the beautiful young woman''s words, Zheng Tao''s face darkened once again.


    Seeing this, the young woman did not dare to urge him further and quickly hurried away.


    After the beautiful young woman had left, Zheng Tao heavily sat down in his chair, his gaze darkening as he looked toward the doorway. Enjoy new tales from My Virtual Library Empire


    Although he believed that Qiu Tu had a 99.99% chance of not becoming the Deputy Head of the Political Department and that his bet was definitely not going to be a loss,


    for some reason, ever since he made that bet, his right eyelid had been twitching nonstop....


    Such an ominous premonition really made him feel uneasy.....


    That was why he had just now been so irritable, treating his wife, who was also his secretary... with such a terrible attitude.


    After sitting quietly for a while, Zheng Tao took a deep breath, then slapped his own face and comforted himself, "There should be nothing wrong. Don''t scare yourself."


    ....


    Meanwhile.


    On the highest floor, the twelfth floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    Inside the senior conference room, the remaining eight high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau were also in a meeting. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, it was obvious the meeting was not going smoothly.


    This could be seen from the smoke filling the room and the water being constantly refilled.


    So, halfway through the meeting, Secretary Bai stood up and walked to the window. While opening it, he said with a refined smile, "You''re all smoking too intensely. You''re about to turn the conference room into a fairyland."


    "Let''s be considerate of our colleagues who don''t smoke."


    His joke elicited some laughter in the conference room, somewhat easing the tense atmosphere.


    Seeing this, Secretary Bai, after opening the window, walked back to the conference table and continued to diffuse the tension in the room, "I believe we are all colleagues here; it''s fine to have our own ideas, but let''s not damage our good relations."


    "Anyway, it has already been decided that the candidate for the Head of the Political Department will be promoted from within us, no matter who it is, it won''t affect the big picture."


    "So, if the disagreement is too significant, then let''s simply report both candidates. Let the higher-ups make the final decision. This also shows respect for the higher authorities."


    With Secretary Bai stepping in to mediate, those who were arguing could no longer justify continuing the dispute.


    Thus, Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, who had been at the center of the argument, exchanged glances with Old Shi, the Director of the Organizational Department, and they both nodded.


    The Sanctuary had instructed the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to nominate their own candidate for the position of the Head of the Political Department.


    Since both deputy heads of the Political Department were Yan Chen''s people, Yan Chen was neutral and had no inclination in terms of attitude.


    But even though Yan Chen showed no preference, those beneath him certainly did.


    It should be noted that even within Yan Chen''s own faction, there were smaller cliques.


    The two deputy heads who had a chance of being promoted each had the support of certain high-level officials, which led to the conflict during this meeting.


    Possibly believing that the argument would not cause any harm, Yan Chen did not bother to intervene and had been slouching and half-closed his eyes since the meeting began, not inclined to offer his opinion.


    But now, seeing that a consensus had been reached with the intervention of Secretary Bai, Yan Chen finally raised his eyelids. His gaze slowly swept over the high-level officials present like an old tree scanning its surroundings, then he slowly said, "Then let''s do as Secretary Bai suggested."


    "Submit both Old Cai and Old Zhang''s names; whoever the Sanctuary chooses will take the position, and the other will assist."


    Seeing that Yan Chen had settled the matter, the high-level officials present fell silent.


    And after deciding this matter, Yan Chen paused to think for a moment, then continued, "Alright. Now that we''ve discussed the candidates for the head position, let''s talk about the deputy head candidates."


    "Since Old Cai and Old Zhang are sure to move up one, that will leave a deputy head position vacant."


    "What are your opinions on this candidate?"


    As soon as he spoke, the atmosphere that had just slightly eased tensed up once again.


    The high-level officials present exchanged glances, each seeing sparks in the others'' eyes...


    -----

 Chapter 208 I Recommend Qiu Tu, Who Approves, Who Opposes (10,000 Words Seeking Subscriptions!)

    The high ranks of the Investigation Bureau originally consisted of nine members.These include the Bureau Chief, Yan Chen,


    and three Deputy Directors: Yu Zhengyi, Lai Shun, and Tang Feifei.


    Also, there are five senior officials of the core departments: Jia Shu, the Director of the Political Department; Shi Youxin, the Director of the Organizational Department; Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director; Guan Weihua, the Public Security Department Director; and Bai Yu, the Director of the Administrative Office.


    These nine individuals not only hold high status and power within the Investigation Bureau but are also among the most influential figures in Xinjie City.


    Directly beneath these nine notables are the deputy division chiefs of the various departments within the Investigation Bureau.


    Among them, the Deputy Director of the Political Department obviously ranks at the forefront of all non-senior officials. Not only does this position hold the greatest power and influence, but it also has the largest room for promotion.


    More importantly, this position can be decided upon by several high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau¡ªthey can choose a candidate on their own and then submit the name to the Municipal Committee for confirmation.


    However, according to the tacit understanding of Xinjie City''s three major power structures, as long as the candidate is selected by the Investigation Bureau, the Municipal Committee won''t hold it up.


    Thus, with such a critical position at stake, it''s evident that each high-ranking official present has their own ulterior motives....


    With such thoughts in mind, Shi Youxin, the savvy Director of the Organizational Department who always knew how to interact with others, first glanced at Yan Chen. He didn''t offer his own suggestion but probed Secretary Bai, asking, "Secretary Bai, do you have any recommendations for the Deputy Director position?"


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Secretary Bai smiled and shook his head, "I''m not very familiar with the Political Department, so I don''t have a suitable candidate for the time being. Let''s see if anyone else has recommendations."


    Secretary Bai is Yan Chen''s right-hand man and typically represents Yan Chen''s stance in high-level meetings.


    So him saying that there is no suitable candidate actually means that Yan Chen hasn''t decided on anyone yet, and everyone is open to discussion.


    Everyone present was astute and immediately picked up on the hints from Secretary Bai and Yan Chen.


    Therefore, Shi Youxin no longer held back. After glancing at Guan Weihua, the Director of the Public Security Department, he cleared his throat and said, "In that case... as the Director of the Organizational Department, I would like to propose a candidate..."


    "My proposed candidate is Section Chief Guan from the Intelligence Section of the Political Department."


    "She is already a veteran in the Political Department and has made significant contributions during the preparatory work of the Department."


    "Moreover, she single-handedly established the intelligence network within the Political Department, a testament to her hard work and achievements."


    "If we are to promote someone to Deputy Director of the Political Department, I feel she is the most suitable choice."


    Upon hearing Shi Youxin''s suggestion, Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, immediately voiced a different opinion. Leaning back in his chair with casual assertiveness, he said, "Actually... I think Section Chief Wang from the Political Department''s Intelligence Section is also not bad."


    "Although espionage is important, precisely because it''s so vital, elevating Section Chief Guan hastily could make it difficult to find someone capable of taking over her duties."


    "But it''s different with Section Chief Wang. He is involved in intelligence collection and summarization. Not only is he connected with all departments of the Political Department, but he''s also well-versed in all its core operations."


    "As a result, he could adapt more quickly to the new responsibilities of a Deputy Director, without affecting the original work of the Intelligence Section."


    At Lin Ting''s remark, Shi Youxin had yet to respond when Guan Weihua, the Director of the Public Security Department, took the initiative to counterargument, "Old Lin, that''s not quite right what you''re saying...."


    "If work is hard to take over, we shouldn''t promote?"


    "Won''t that discourage our subordinates?"


    "I think precisely because her work is irreplaceable, it proves she''s doing a great job. That''s even more reason to promote her."


    Earlier, the issue of choosing the Head of the Political Department had sparked an argument between Shi Youxin, the Director of the Organizational Department, and Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director.


    This time, with Guan Weihua added to the mix for the Deputy Director position, the situation instantly became even more chaotic. Consequently, the conference room became tenser.


    While the three of them were locked in heated debate, a few Bureau Chiefs seated in the front row of the meeting room remained unperturbed, keenly observing the entire situation with a detached interest.


    Among them, the spirited Tang Feifei sat expressionless in the second seat to the left of Yan Chen, watching the unfolding scene with an insightful gaze.


    Having been in the Investigation Bureau for some time, she had long seen through the current power structure of the Bureau.


    Aside from herself, all the other eight high-ranking officials were linked to Yan Chen.


    Whether it was the other two Deputy Directors or the five division chiefs, they were all former colleagues, prot¨¦g¨¦s, or individuals connected to Yan Chen in various ways.


    And among these seven people, they were divided into three factions.


    Jia Shu and Secretary Bai were Yan Chen''s staunch supporters;


    the Deputy Director of the Action Division, Lai Shun, along with Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, and Guan Weihua, the Director of the Public Security Department, represented the interests of the Investigation Bureau''s combat departments;


    whereas Yu Zhengyi, the Deputy Director of Administration, and Shi Youxin, the Director of the Organizational Department, represented the interests of the Bureau''s various administrative departments.


    The recent discussion over the position of Director of the Political Department might have seemed like a clash between Lin Ting of the Special Service Department and Shi Youxin of the Organizational Department, but it was actually a collision between the two powerful factions they supported.


    And the dispute over the Deputy Director position was no different.


    Only... that "Section Chief Guan" was obviously related to Guan Weihua.


    Guan Weihua, not having received support from his own side, thus chose to back the other party.


    Politics is that complex and yet that simple: everything is driven by interests....


    One second they might be friends, the next, enemies.


    At this moment, Guan Weihua''s sudden "betrayal" obviously caught Lin Ting off guard. Therefore, he hesitated for a moment before looking towards Lai Shun, the Deputy Director of the Action Division, as if seeking his opinion.


    Lai Shun was a middle-aged man of extensive experience and strategic depth. This much could be deduced from his hair, which styled in a way reminiscent of a rural area encircling a city.


    Thus, seeing Guan Weihua stab him in the back so unexpectedly, his expression did not change. He simply pondered quietly for a moment and then made up his mind.


    He slowly began to speak, tossing out a third candidate, "Actually... I think Deputy Director Qi from the Public Security Bureau isn''t a bad choice either."


    "He''s already a very senior and experienced director. Transferring him laterally to the Political Department to take over as deputy head should yield good results," he added. Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    "What''s more, the work of the Public Security Bureau is obviously easier to hand over compared to the Political Department, less likely to cause issues... "


    This plan was clearly Lai Shun''s way of using a bargaining chip to win back Guan Weihua:


    Transferring a Deputy Division Chief from Guan Weihua''s team to the Political Department would not only extend Guan Weihua''s reach of power but also allow him to promote another Deputy Division Chief.


    This shrewd move immediately caused Guan Weihua to waver and also changed the atmosphere in the room.


    Section Chief Wang from the Organizational Department and Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi exchanged glances, both seeing gravity in the other''s eyes.


    Just as they were about to speak and further muddy the waters, Tang Feifei spoke up.


    She clapped her hands lightly, which sounded exceptionally clear in the quiet office.


    Hearing the clap, everyone instinctively looked towards her. Waiting until she had attracted everyone''s attention, Tang Feifei also began to speak slowly, "Actually, I have a candidate in mind as well."


    When Tang Feifei spoke, the high-ranking officials present were visibly taken aback.


    As the "outsider" among them, Tang Feifei was the only high-ranking official not belonging to Yan Chen''s faction.


    Therefore, although she held the title of Deputy Director... she actually had very little say in personnel matters.


    And since Tang Feifei was of a proud and arrogant nature, she was reluctant to put herself in a position where she could be humiliated. Therefore, when it came to personnel decisions, she typically kept a low profile and never voiced her opinions.


    Now that she suddenly spoke up, and about such an important position no less, it was quite unexpected for everyone.


    Thinking about who she might have the authority to recommend, it didn''t take much for the officials to guess who Tang Feifei would suggest...


    As expected, Tang Feifei spoke with an air of aloofness, "The person I recommend is Qiu Tu, the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division in the Political Department." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ever since Qiu Tu joined the Investigation Bureau, he has made notable achievements, and it was also he who discovered the issues with Jia Shu."


    "Therefore, I believe he can also handle the job in the Political Department."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s nominee, the atmosphere among the high-ranking officials present became muted for a moment.


    After all... compared to the other candidates, Qiu Tu obviously lacked both seniority and achievements, and what''s more, Qiu Tu was a "traitor" who had betrayed Yan Chen.


    Even if his qualifications and achievements were up to par, Yan Chen wouldn''t agree.


    So when Tang Feifei had just made her suggestion, before Yan Chen could even respond, several senior officials began to speak all at once, ready to refute Tang Feifei''s proposal.


    Then at that moment, Tang Feifei suddenly added, "Besides, this is not just my opinion. It''s also the view of the Disciplinary Department."


    "The Disciplinary Department?!" Hearing the name of this sensitive department, the officials who were about to speak shut their mouths again.


    Tang Feifei then looked around imperiously and continued to explain, "The Political Department has the power to oversee the City Hall, the military, and the Investigation Bureau."


    "This authority was originally delegated by the Disciplinary Department."


    "Their recent work in Xinjie City has found significant deficiencies in this area."


    "Therefore, they have requested that Xinjie City place higher importance on this aspect of its work."


    "And after their investigation, they proposed Qiu Tu as the person in charge."


    "In accordance with practice, the official responsible for this business area should hold the position of deputy head."


    Having said that, Tang Feifei swept her gaze across the room with authority, "So, I propose Qiu Tu as the new Deputy Head of the Political Department. Who supports and who opposes?"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the conference room fell dead silent.


    All of Tang Feifei''s reasons for the recommendation were logical and compliant with the regulations.


    When the higher-level department demanded focus on this area of work and even provided a recommended candidate, in order to avoid being ''remembered'' unfavorably by the superiors, it was indeed right for the subordinate departments to comply.


    But... that candidate was Qiu Tu.


    With this in mind, the high-ranking officials couldn''t help but turn their eyes to Yan Chen, who was seated at the head of the table....


    -----


    Today is still three chapters of ten thousand words each. The third chapter will probably be updated around 23-24 o''clock. Asking for Monthly Tickets during the double period!

 Chapter 209 The Situation Develops that Shocks Everyone (10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    In the meeting room, if there was someone whose relationship with Qiu Tu was the most tense, it would definitely have to be Yan Chen. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.After all, Qiu Tu was a mid-level official whom Yan Chen had personally promoted.


    Moreover, Yan Chen clearly had high hopes for Qiu Tu, genuinely nurturing him as a confidant and laying out a majestic path for him.


    Yet, under such circumstances, Qiu Tu still betrayed Yan Chen and went into the embrace of Tang Feifei.


    Everyone somewhat understood Yan Chen. With his character of holding grudges, there was 100% no chance he would let Qiu Tu off the hook! Not to mention helping Qiu Tu get promoted! So, Tang Feifei''s proposal was definitely going to hit a snag.


    Indeed, as soon as Tang Feifei started to speak, Yan Chen, who had been silent since the meeting began, also spoke up.


    He lifted his drooping eyelids, and his old, murky eyes slowly shifted toward Tang Feifei.


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei also looked back at him squarely.


    The two stared at each other for two seconds before Yan Chen finally spoke with a somber expression, "Qiu Tu is not suitable, let''s just decide on the three candidates mentioned earlier."


    "Report them to the Municipal Committee, and let the committee decide which one they prefer.


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, the senior members of the meeting room were taken aback, then exchanged glances.


    The selection of the Head of the Political Department was too important, and it was somewhat normal to report it to the Sanctuary if there was an ongoing dispute among everyone.


    But... a Deputy Director? That could''ve been internally decided after discussion before just going through a formality at the Municipal Committee. Why now let the Municipal Committee choose as well?


    Wasn''t this a surrender of power?


    At this time, Yan Chen didn''t care about what others were thinking. After he made his statement, he snorted coldly, then stood up, and left the room with a flick of his sleeve.


    Seeing his attitude, the high-ranking officials, who had been somewhat puzzled just moments before, suddenly had a look of realization as they "guessed" Yan Chen''s thoughts: Yan Chen probably felt disgusted just hearing Qiu Tu''s name and couldn''t be bothered to continue the meeting, nor did he want to keep arguing with Tang Feifei, which is why he directly exercised his Bureau Chief''s decision-making power to settle the matter.


    Thinking this, they could not help but glance at Tang Feifei.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei''s brow was indeed deeply furrowed, and her face was as cold as frost.


    Seeing this, the senior officials looked at each other and smiled, also rising from their seats and leaving the meeting room...


    Although they hadn''t achieved the outcomes they wanted, at least there was still hope. But for Tang Feifei, there was no hope left.


    People are such strange creatures; it doesn''t matter much if their own lives are mediocre, but if they see someone else faring worse than themselves, it often brings much joy...


    Soon, the aftermath of this meeting began to spread rapidly within the Investigation Bureau.


    So, not long after, agents, chiefs, and directors from different departments got wind of the juicy details from this meeting. Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Hey, have you heard? Deputy Director Tang and the Disciplinary Department proposed Chief Qiu for a promotion to Deputy Director, but it was vetoed by the Bureau Chief."


    "I''ve heard, I''ve heard. I also heard that Deputy Director Tang''s face was quite a sight at that time."


    "But to be fair... although Chief Qiu has less seniority, and he has just been promoted, the endorsement from the Disciplinary Department gave him qualifications to be promoted to Deputy Director. Without the Bureau Chief''s opposition, he would have had the greatest advantage."


    "Yeah, but who told him to offend the Bureau Chief? With the Bureau Chief''s veto, he lost all hope. Besides... now that the list has been reported to the Municipal Committee, there''s no turning back."


    "It''s fate, alas..."


    "Isn''t that the truth?"


    Meanwhile...


    In the office of the Public Security Department Director.


    As he was anxious about his bet with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao visited his superior Guan Weihua almost immediately after the meeting to find out the news.


    Being officials of the same faction, Guan Weihua didn''t keep anything from Zheng Tao.


    So, Zheng Tao quickly learned two pieces of news.


    The first news was: Qiu Tu was indeed nominated, and moreover, he was jointly nominated by Deputy Director Tang and the Disciplinary Department, making him a surprisingly strong competitor.


    The second news was: But... Director Yan was extremely dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, directly vetoing this nomination, and reported the other three candidates to the Municipal Committee, just waiting for them to make the final decision.


    The first news nearly caused Zheng Tao to break out in a cold sweat, while the second brought him close to bursting with laughter!


    At that moment, how could he not realize Qiu Tu''s "conspiracy":


    Qiu Tu clearly knew he would be jointly recommended by the Disciplinary Department and Tang Feifei, thinking he had a high probability of being elected, which is why he had the audacity to bet with him!


    He aimed to win over his wife and driver!


    Luckily, Director Yan exercised his veto power right then, or else he might have actually succeeded!


    With these thoughts, Zheng Tao breathed a sigh of relief and also felt a tinge of schadenfreude.


    He felt that Qiu Tu, despite all his calculations, had still missed a crucial point.


    It seemed that the ultimate winner of this bet would be him!


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao suddenly paused: Wait a minute, in the bet between himself and Qiu Tu, why was it that only he had placed a stake, and Qiu Tu hadn''t pitched in anything?


    ''No, no! I must confront him about this!''


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao said farewell to Guan Weihua and then headed towards the 9th floor...


    .....


    At the same time, Qiu Tu was on the phone with Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei at this moment, although not as cold in expression as she was when the meeting dispersed, was not much better off.


    She frowned with a chilly tone, "Qiu Tu... didn''t you handle Yan Chen properly?"

 Chapter 209 Shocking Situation Unfolds (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    "Today, I nominated you according to our plan, but he vetoed it with a single vote,""Now how will you get promoted?"


    As she said this, she spoke with a tone that scorned incompetence, "This is a very rare opportunity."


    "Xinjie City is still developing and there might be some openings for director positions in the Investigation Bureau, but the division chief positions are like a radish in a pit¡ªthere''s only one for one."


    "Previously, there was an opening for the deputy division chief of the Public Security Bureau and that was already rare enough,"


    "What a pity, Yan Chen already gave it to someone else,"


    "Now, it''s already a stroke of luck that a deputy director position in the Political Department is available, and if someone else takes it, your career will be completely stuck!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s concerned words, Qiu Tu tried to reassure her, "Feifei... don''t get worked up."


    "The results haven''t come out yet, no need to pop champagne for the enemy halfway through the game."


    "You have to trust me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei took a deep breath as if suppressing the anger inside her; evidently, the defeat at today''s senior meeting had really annoyed her.


    After two seconds, she then suddenly ordered in a cool tone, "Come to my place for a late-night snack tonight."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    This is totally a different matter, right?


    And... late-night snack?


    Has his nickname become ''late-night snack''? sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu, who had been busy the day before yesterday, quickly shook his head and declined her, "I don''t have time. I have an important task these next few days."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s refusal, Tang Feifei snorted coldly. She was just about to further argue with Qiu Tu, wanting to express just how embarrassed she felt today.


    But before she could speak, Qiu Tu abruptly said, "Someone''s come to see me, let''s talk when I''m free."


    After that, he hung up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." from the handset, Tang Feifei squeezed the communicator until it creaked, almost breaking it!


    However, after her outburst, Tang Feifei still managed to suppress her rage and tossed the communicator aside, starting to speculate about how Qiu Tu would turn the tide against the odds...


    After quietly pondering for half an hour, Tang Feifei still felt the hope was faint.


    The list had already been sent to the Municipal Committee. Could Qiu Tu really get the Municipal Committee to send it back?


    But even if it was sent back, if Yan Chen blocked him, he would still not become the deputy director.


    Even if Qiu Tu finally persuaded Yan Chen in this period, Yan Chen couldn''t just inexplicably retract his veto, right? Wouldn''t that be slapping his own face?


    Tang Feifei felt there must be something she didn''t know...


    ...


    Meanwhile, having hung up the phone, Qiu Tu was now facing off with Zheng Tao who had sought him out.


    Compared to the frustration he showed in the morning, Zheng Tao was noticeably more relaxed and at ease now.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Does Chief Qiu know why I have come to find him?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment before tentatively asking, "Do you think you''re going to lose, so you''re preparing to go back on our bet?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao was full of question marks and nearly laughed in disbelief.


    "Is Chief Qiu joking?"


    "Who''s about to lose between the two of us?"


    He continued, "I''ve just got the news that your nomination was rejected by the Bureau Chief. Now the three candidates reported to the Municipal Committee do not include you."


    "So, it seems you''re about to lose the bet."


    With that, his tone shifted, finally revealing the purpose of his visit.


    He said, "However, it''s precisely because of this that I realized you haven''t placed a bet."


    "You only said that if you won, you''d want my... secretary to accompany you and my driver to pick you up."


    "But you never said what you''d give up if I won."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao with a perplexed expression.


    To tell the truth, he initially treated the bet as a joke, just to tease Zheng Tao and to take a jab at him. He never really took it seriously.


    And it was precisely because he didn''t take the bet seriously that he never mentioned his own stake.


    However, now Zheng Tao took the bet seriously and even came over to ask for the stake, which was a bit unexpected for him.


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "So what does Director Zheng want? You mention it, and I''ll see if I can accept it."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao said expressionlessly, "My requirement is very simple, and I won''t ask for too much."


    "If you lose, you''ll have to shout three times from the first floor to the 11th floor of your office building: ''I am not as good as Zheng Tao, and I''m not fit to be the Deputy Division Chief!''"


    "How about this stake?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted slightly, his look towards Zheng Tao complicated.


    Zheng Tao''s bet seemed simple, but it was actually incredibly vicious.


    If Qiu Tu shouted these phrases throughout the building the day after he embarrassed Zheng Tao, then Zheng Tao''s lost face would immediately be restored, as would his prestige and influence.


    Moreover, publicly declaring himself unfit for the Deputy Division Chief role might seem like a joke, but if a similar opportunity arose in the future, it could be used against him by competitors.


    Thus, Zheng Tao was not only elevating himself, but also blocking Qiu Tu''s channels for advancement.


    If Qiu Tu didn''t manage to become the Deputy Division Chief this time, it would be difficult for him to get promoted in the near future...


    The only thing Zheng Tao miscalculated was that Qiu Tu''s promotion to Deputy Division Chief was almost a done deal¡ªit was very likely to happen, and all of Zheng Tao''s scheming was doomed to fail.


    Therefore, faced with Zheng Tao''s invitation to the bet, Qiu Tu immediately extended his hand, "It''s a deal."


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao also smiled and reached out his hand, shaking hands with Qiu Tu.


    With the bet set, Zheng Tao left the empty conference room contentedly.


    But after he left, Qiu Tu took out the special communicator given to him by Commissioner Jiang''s secretary, Tao Yaoyao, and made a call...


    And soon...


    At 5 p.m., a shocking piece of news rapidly spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    The list of candidates for Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department submitted by the Investigation Bureau to the Municipal Committee was entirely rejected!


    Not a single one of the three nominees was selected by the Municipal Committee!


    Such an incident had never happened since the establishment of Xinjie City, completely breaking the tacit understanding between the three major authority organizations!


    Immediately following, the second big event occurred.


    After rejecting the list of nominees, the Municipal Committee quickly sent a commendation to the Investigation Bureau.


    The content of the commendation was simple: it praised the investigation team led by Qiu Tu for the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case" for their members'' success in solving this major case in a short time, catching the criminal, and rescuing numerous hostages.


    One after the other, the two documents had completely opposing attitudes, creating an air of mystery. Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    After all... if the Municipal Committee was trying to knock the Investigation Bureau down a peg, they wouldn''t follow up with praise.


    If the Municipal Committee intended to show goodwill toward the Investigation Bureau, then they shouldn''t have rejected the Bureau''s routine promotion application in defiance of convention...


    This contradictory approach left many people scratching their heads.


    Only a few sharp-minded people guessed a possibility: Could these two issues actually be related?


    Could it be that the Municipal Committee was attempting to influence the choice for the Deputy Division Chief through their commendation?


    And at this time, while everyone in the Investigation Bureau was confused about the situation...


    That same afternoon, just before closing time.


    The Security Department of the military also sent a written letter of appreciation to the Investigation Bureau.


    The letter thanked Qiu Tu for his critical role in two major cases and commended him for laying a solid foundation for future cooperation between the two organizations.


    If it were just the commendation from the Municipal Committee, the Investigation Bureau wouldn''t think too much of it.


    But now, with the military''s commendation arriving too, and at such a sensitive time for the recommendation of Deputy Division Chief, the Bureau began to catch on to something...


    -----


    Still three chapters today, totalling ten thousand words. The third chapter will probably be updated around 23-24 o''clock. During the double-points period, I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 210 Promotion! Deputy Minister! (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Everyone who entered the Investigation Bureau was a person of some culture and thought amidst the chaotic world.Such people generally had minds much more agile than the average person.


    Thus, after only a brief contemplation, they realized that this was no coincidence but rather a deliberate political gesture.


    In other words, it meant that both the Municipal Committee and the military favored Qiu Tu for the position of Deputy Chief of the Political Department.


    Moreover, with the endorsement from the Disciplinary Department earlier, there were already three departments, on the same level or higher than the Investigation Bureau, supporting Qiu Tu.


    This exaggerated political gesture truly shocked the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, which had just been established for a year and had not experienced much adversity.


    Suddenly, discussions about what kind of background Qiu Tu had were heard everywhere.


    Everyone was curious about what kind of power Qiu Tu possessed to be able to request the support of so many departments on his behalf...


    Meanwhile, at the same time,


    On the 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, in the Deputy Director''s office,


    Action Deputy Director Lai Shun, listening to the report from his secretary, revealed a hint of a smile on his face. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His style of doing things was clearly different from that of Yan Chen and Tang Feifei, which could be seen from the decoration of his office.


    Compared to Tang Feifei''s simple yet grand and Yan Chen''s gloomy and oppressive office, his was very regular and extremely bright.


    Upon stepping into this office, one would have an impression of Lai Shun being impartial and calm.


    However, if one spent more time in this office, they would find that despite its seemingly impartial facade, it was filled with many clever and special arrangements.


    Which also precisely matched his way of doing things and personality: an unflappable appearance, but full of schemes and tactics on the inside.


    And now, after listening to his secretary''s report, Lai Shun stroked his balding crown and said cheerfully, "I didn''t expect that... Chief Qiu really has some tricks up his sleeve."


    "He managed to get so many people to speak up for him."


    Upon saying this, he picked up his tea cup and took a sip, "But... it''s useless to ask for more people''s support; it still requires Old Yan''s approval."


    "Old Yan isn''t someone who can be coerced."


    "So... what he''s done now, aside from provoking Old Yan, is pointless."


    At the same time, also on the 12th floor, in the Deputy Director''s office,


    Tang Feifei had just finished listening to the report from her secretary and spy from the Security Department, Su Xiaowan.


    She came to a similar conclusion as Director Lai.


    "Although reaching out to Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai to pressure the Investigation Bureau is shocking¡­ it''s not very effective."


    Tang Feifei frowned slightly, "If Yan Chen is dead set against it, no one can interfere with the internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau."


    "This will only cause everyone to lose face."


    "Qiu Tu should have foreseen this. What exactly is he thinking?"


    This thought circulated among all the high-levels of the Investigation Bureau. In a short time, the focus of everyone''s attention shifted from who would become the Deputy Chief, to whether Qiu Tu could really become the Deputy Chief.


    And just as everyone was eagerly awaiting, close to the end of the workday, another order was issued from the Bureau Chief''s office.


    It was still a promotion list. It was still for the Political Department''s Deputy Chief position.


    Only, this time the nominees had changed from the previously listed Vice Director Qi, Section Chief Guan, and Section Chief Wang, to the equally competitive Deputy Director Zheng and Section Chief Xin...


    In other words, Qiu Tu''s name was still not there.


    Yan Chen''s method of response was essentially a direct and firm resistance, effectively deflecting the pressure from the Municipal Committee and the Disciplinary Department, as well as the influence of the military.


    This left the entire bureau too excited to even think about leaving work, all intensely interested in seeing how the situation would unfold.


    After receiving this new promotion list, Tao Yaoyao immediately called Qiu Tu.


    No one knew what they talked about, except that shortly after hanging up, the Municipal Committee sent back the document.


    But what came back carried a personal annotation from Commissioner Jiang, a single word: "Possible."


    The implications of that one word were significant. It neither agreed nor disagreed. It did not specify which of the two should become the Deputy Chief.


    It effectively returned the decision-making power back to Yan Chen, leaving it up to him to decide who the Deputy Chief would be.


    By this point, it was clear to everyone that Yan Chen had withstood the pressure from the Municipal Committee and the military, preventing them from meddling in the affairs of the Investigation Bureau.


    What remained to be seen was whom Yan Chen would choose between Section Chief Xin and Deputy Director Zheng.


    In essence, Qiu Tu''s bid had utterly and completely failed!


    As a result, just then, a third document was issued from the Bureau Chief''s office, still a simple request for the appointment of a Deputy Minister.


    However, this time, there was only one name on the appointment, and that was Qiu Tu.


    This time, City Hall almost took just a few minutes to fax the document back. On it was still only Commissioner Jiang''s instruction, but this time it was two words, "Agreed."


    When the Investigation Bureau Organization Department received this legally effective appointment document, everyone in the department was a bit baffled.


    Even some of the seasoned investigators were somewhat at a loss as to what exactly had happened.


    How after several documents, the candidate for Deputy Minister had changed from the other five division chiefs and section chiefs to Qiu Tu?!


    What kind of riddles were these big shots playing?


    Meanwhile, Yan Chen, who had finally finished all his business, tossed his pen onto the desk and then slowly rose from his office chair, saying to Secretary Bai in a deep voice, "Let''s go. Back to the villa."


    "Yes!" Secretary Bai, who had been involved in the whole affair, stepped forward to drape a wool coat over Yan Chen and then followed behind him, leaving the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Just as the two stepped out of the building, Qiu Tu was also in the empty meeting room on the 9th floor, holding a glass of foreign liquor, looking down at them through the floor-to-ceiling window.


    As if sensing something, Yan Chen instinctively turned and looked up towards the 9th floor.


    Their gazes collided across the vast distance, and Qiu Tu raised his glass towards Yan Chen. Yan Chen''s mouth twitched into a nearly imperceptible smile, then he turned and got into the car...


    Secretary Bai closed the car door for him, then also got into the car behind.


    Once the two big shots were seated, the motorcade gradually started and then slowly drove off into the darkness...


    However, though Yan Chen and Secretary Bai had left, the entire Investigation Bureau was in an uproar.


    What happened today truly broadened everyone''s horizons.


    The twists and turns in selecting the Deputy Minister attracted a lot of attention and put Qiu Tu, who finally got the position, under the spotlight for the entire Investigation Bureau to dissect.


    Deputy Minister of the Political Department, no less!


    A real Deputy Division Chief, and one of the top echelons at that. High-ranking and powerful, even greater than many of the department chiefs in smaller sectors.


    And Qiu Tu got it just like that?


    Moreover... after being unfavored by everyone, and vetoed by the Bureau Chief at the high-level meeting, he still got it?


    How on earth did Qiu Tu manage that!


    Instantly, everyone in the Investigation Bureau was divided into three states of mind.


    The first group was excited and joyful. These were mostly subordinates associated with Qiu Tu. For example, Liu Fuping, Song Qing, and people like Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng. Or some investigators and section chiefs who had repeatedly shown goodwill towards Qiu Tu.


    The second group was skeptical and incredulous. These were mostly division chiefs and section chiefs who held grudges against Qiu Tu, and some ordinary investigators who almost sprained their backs from all the drama.


    The third... was Zheng Tao.


    Ever since he made a bet with Qiu Tu at noon, Zheng Tao''s mood had been like a roller coaster.


    At first, when he learned that Qiu Tu was vetoed by Yan Chen, Zheng Tao was ecstatic.


    Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    After all, nothing is more pleasing than seeing an enemy in trouble.


    But when the "Position Promotion Application" submitted to the Municipal Committee by the Investigation Bureau was rejected, he was thrown into a panic.


    ''How could it be rejected?'' he thought.


    Zheng Tao was one of the old-timers who had come down from the Sanctuary with Yan Chen, helping to prepare Xinjie. During the establishment of Xinjie, he had seen all sorts of situations.


    But honestly, he had never seen the Municipal Committee return a promotion request from the Investigation Bureau and the military.


    After all, isn''t that like making these two institutions fall out?


    If only it ended there.


    Zheng Tao believed that the great Director Yan wouldn''t let him down: after all, compared to Commissioner Jiang''s vulnerability, Yan Chen''s image had always been strong.


    Being slapped in the face like this, Yan Chen would surely not back down.


    However, what Zheng Tao didn''t expect was that both the Municipal Committee and the military subsequently sent commendations to Qiu Tu.


    It was like dancing on the tip of Zheng Tao''s heart.


    On the one hand, he prayed that Yan Chen would withstand the pressure. On the other, he was shocked by Qiu Tu''s influence.


    He wanted to run up and demand from Qiu Tu where all these trump cards came from!


    ----


    3 chapters, 10,000 words ha. Continue with daily ten thousands tomorrow! It''s the last day for double Monthly Tickets, don''t miss out on casting yours for double value! Pleading for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 211 Promotion Insider (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Line by line, Zheng Tao read the commendations from the Municipal Committee and the military, feeling a bit doubtful about his life.He too had once been a division chief at the Political Department and was now a Deputy Division Chief; how could he not receive commendations from either the Municipal Committee or the military?


    Why could Qiu Tu?


    Moreover, what kind of background did Qiu Tu have that he could put pressure on him with both major power institutions at once?


    By this moment, Zheng Tao truly felt that the situation had exceeded his expectations.


    He could do nothing now but pray that Yan Chen could withstand the pressure.


    Whether his prayers were effective or not, even when faced with the pressure from the Disciplinary Department, Municipal Committee, and the military, Yan Chen still stood firm and even turned the tables on the three departments by slapping their faces.


    ¡ª¡ªShe directly submitted a new promotion list without Qiu Tu''s name on it.


    Such an outcome finally let Zheng Tao breathe a sigh of relief. But learning from his last experience, he didn''t celebrate with champagne just yet; instead, he waited nervously again for the Municipal Committee to make a move.


    This time, the Municipal Committee finally gave in. They stopped pressuring Yan Chen and agreed to her personnel choice.


    Although the word "approved" was given grudgingly, approval was approval. As long as Yan Chen agreed, the personnel choice would be set in stone.


    With that, Zheng Tao finally got excited again, believing he had won this tough bet.


    But then, at this moment, things took an unexpected turn; Yan Chen listed only Qiu Tu''s name on the third promotion list.


    And this list was passed by City Hall in just a few minutes, taking full effect.


    Such a turn of events completely baffled Zheng Tao.


    He felt utterly unable to understand what was happening, unclear about how Qiu Tu had become the Deputy Division Chief and why he had lost the bet.


    This result made him very unwilling to accept defeat, so he could only sit dumbfounded in his office...


    And he sat like that, not knowing for how long. It could have been fifteen minutes or maybe half an hour.


    It was the "knock knock knock" on the door that startled him back to reality.


    Hearing that knocking sound, Zheng Tao awoke from his thoughts and looked towards the door.


    Then, he saw his secretary, who was also his wife, Tan Huimin, holding a boxed meal, walking in from outside.


    After entering, as Tan Huimin was gently closing the door, she said softly to Zheng Tao, "Ah-Tao, it''s time for dinner."


    "I went to the rooftop on the 9th floor to pick out some dishes you like."


    "Have something to eat before you continue working."


    Looking at Tan Huimin, Zheng Tao couldn''t help but think of his bet with Qiu Tu, his facial expression slightly changed, and then a surge of anger rose from the depths of his heart!


    He reprimanded, "I''ve said it before, this is the Bureau! The Bureau! Don''t be so affectionate in addressing each other!"


    "What would the other colleagues and superiors think if they heard it!"


    "And you, always eating, just eating!"


    "I haven''t even finished my work for the day, what''s there to eat!" Your journey continues with My Virtual Library Empire


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s scolding, Tan Huimin''s eyes reddened again.


    She wanted to leave right away, but worried about Zheng Tao, she bit her lip, hurried forward a few steps, and silently placed the meal box on Zheng Tao''s desk.


    Then, she turned around, covered her mouth, and ran out of the office with tears in her eyes.


    After Tan Huimin left, Zheng Tao''s face grew even darker.


    He knew he was taking his anger out on Tan Huimin a bit, but... he really couldn''t help it.


    His greatest pursuit in life was to get promoted and rise to high positions!


    That''s why he started the "overtime" wave in the Political Department, leading to everyone in the department leaving at 9, 10, or 11 PM.


    Why he would always bring up the Bureau Chief whenever he spoke.


    To get promoted, he was exceedingly harsh on himself and his subordinates, unwilling to give any leverage to his competitors and not wanting his superiors to see any fault in him.


    Apart from the lifelong pursuit of promotions, the only thing he cared about was his wife, Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin was his wife whom he met when he was still insignificant; although her family background was ordinary and couldn''t help with his promotion,


    she was top-notch in looks, figure, character, and personality.


    He truly cherished his wife.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t go against his principles, risking being caught by competitors or nitpicked by superiors, by having Tan Huimin at his side as his secretary.


    It was precisely because he cared that when Qiu Tu said he wanted to take his female secretary out for a couple of days, his face suddenly darkened.


    And this was also why he was so furious after losing the bet!


    ''I can''t go on like this...''


    ''I can''t just hand Hui Min over to Qiu Tu...''


    Thinking of the rumors about Qiu Tu, the women with ambiguous relationships around him, and the incidents where he accidentally saw Qiu Tu touching his female subordinates...


    Zheng Tao''s face turned even more livid.


    "Huff!" He took a deep breath and then got up, ready to go talk to Guan Weihua.


    ''First, I need to find out how exactly Qiu Tu won... then figure out a way to solve this bet.''


    Thinking so, Zheng Tao had no appetite for dinner and left his office to find Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua....


    After Zheng Tao left, the dinner specially prepared by Tan Huimin just sat on the table, slowly releasing its futile warmth and gradually cooling down.....


    ...


    Arriving at Guan Weihua''s office, Zheng Tao knocked on the door, and came the voice of Guan Weihua from inside, "Come in."


    Zheng Tao pushed the door open and entered.


    Guan Weihua was organizing files, apparently getting ready to leave work.


    Zheng Tao furrowed his brows slightly upon seeing this: to tell the truth, he had very little respect for Guan Weihua and the current state of the Public Security Bureau.


    Back when he was the Head of the Interrogation Section at the Political Department, he had set an example by working until 9, 10, 11 p.m., making all officers work overtime every day.


    It was precisely because of his lead that the various sections of the Political Department were endlessly internalizing competition. In the end, they forged the department into an ironclad force.


    But... after coming to the Public Security Bureau, Zheng Tao found that everyone there was very lax and disorganized, whether they were superiors or detectives; everyone left work on time every day, never working overtime.


    Moreover, it wasn''t just the Public Security Bureau; another department belonging to the Action Line, the Special Service Department, was also slacking off in their daily routines.


    This made him immediately understand why both the Special Service Department and the Public Security Bureau were so incompetent.


    To put it bluntly, it was all because the superiors did nothing....


    That was also why he had some disdain for the Director of the Public Security Department, Guan Weihua.


    However, now he needed to get information about Qiu Tu from Guan Weihua, so he could only suppress the discomfort in his heart and then, with a thick-skinned smile, he asked, "Director Guan, are you leaving work? May I delay you for a few minutes?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Guan Weihua smiled at him and then said, "You''re looking for me, so you must want to talk about Qiu Tu, right?"


    Zheng Tao wasn''t surprised: although others hadn''t bet with Qiu Tu, there should be quite a few who were curious about the matter.


    So he nodded, acknowledging it, "Yes, Director."


    He looked troubled, "I genuinely can''t comprehend why the Bureau Chief ultimately agreed to promote Qiu Tu."


    Hearing that, Guan Weihua laughed a couple of times.


    Guan Weihua was a somewhat chubby middle-aged man with very good skin, giving him a fair and plump look, very festive.


    He extended his fan-sized hand and gently patted Zheng Tao, "Come, Old Zheng, take a seat."


    "I have a few questions for you."


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s words, Zheng Tao nodded and then quickly sat down.


    Guan Weihua said, "I''m asking you, are the Disciplinary Department, the Municipal Committee, and the military, these three departments, powerful?"


    Zheng Tao hesitated for a moment, then nodded, "Of course they are powerful."


    "The Disciplinary Department can almost be said to be the Sanctuary''s imperial envoy, with the power to investigate officials in all departments and tremendous influence."


    "The Municipal Committee is the highest authority of a city. In theory, even our Investigation Bureau is under their jurisdiction, which is evident from the fact that any rank above Deputy Division Chief needs their approval."


    "As for the military... although they are a parallel department to our Investigation Bureau, their armed forces are formidable, with much more powerful firearms than we have; if it really came to a fight, we might not necessarily be their match."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s assessment, Guan Weihua smiled and nodded, then said, "That''s right. Since you know how powerful these departments are. Would the Bureau Chief not know?"


    "Qiu Tu could get so many departments to pressure for him, to have so many big-shots stand up for him; what''s giving him a Deputy Division Chief title to them?"


    "To have a Deputy Division Chief owe a favor to so many departments, the Bureau Chief certainly doesn''t come out at a loss."


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s words, Zheng Tao first looked stunned and then hesitantly said, "Wait a minute. But... the Bureau Chief initially refused!"


    Guan Weihua chuckled, "That''s right, he did refuse."


    "He even submitted a second promotion list without Qiu Tu''s name."


    Zheng Tao nodded, "Yes. So....?"


    Guan Weihua picked up the teacup on his desk, took a sip, and said leisurely, "So... what can that represent?"


    "It''s just a simple testing of the waters by both sides, then giving outsiders a respectable result."


    "A respectable result?" Zheng Tao didn''t quite understand.


    Guan Weihua pointed at Zheng Tao and said with a smile, "You... still lack the vision for high-level political exchanges."


    "To put it plainly... everyone needs face. Whether it''s the Bureau Chief, the Disciplinary Department, or Commissioner Jiang; Director Dai, they all need face."


    "When the Disciplinary Department applied pressure at the start, the Bureau Chief couldn''t possibly agree."


    "After all, if he gave in so easily, what would the Investigation Bureau amount to? A subordinate department of the Disciplinary Department?"


    "And when the pressure came from City Hall and the military, the Bureau Chief was even less likely to agree."


    "After all, if pressured into agreeing at that time, where would the Bureau Chief''s authority and face be?"


    "What would he do if similar situations occurred later? Would the Bureau Chief yield, or not?"


    "Therefore, the Bureau Chief had to stand firm, had to show his stance, to let the other party yield and regain face."


    "That''s why he submitted the second list."


    "This time, the Municipal Committee indeed gave in and acknowledged the Bureau Chief''s position in writing: the Investigation Bureau is still under the Bureau Chief''s control."


    "At this point, adding the name of the person favored by the other side, Qiu Tu, to the list was a move by the Bureau Chief. Wouldn''t the three major departments owe the Bureau Chief a favor?"


    "If the Bureau Chief needs their cooperation in the future, wouldn''t it be difficult for them to refuse?"


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s analysis, Zheng Tao was momentarily dumbfounded.


    Perhaps doing too much transactional work, his political sensitivity wasn''t that strong. Therefore, he hadn''t thought that such a short confrontation could be riddled with so many twists and turns....


    At the same time, Qiu Tu was also in an empty conference room, explaining the ins and outs of the promotion game to Tang Feifei over the phone. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, his angle of explanation was slightly different from Guan Weihua''s.


    He said to Tang Feifei with a smile, "Yan Chen is really sophisticated. Politically astute."


    "Actually... that night, he already agreed to me, that he wouldn''t oppose my promotion and would put on a play with me."


    "Turns out, he pulled this move today. It''s clear he wants to have it all."


    "Have it all?" Tang Feifei''s tone on the other end of the phone was somewhat cold, but her eyes were burning hot.


    The developments of the evening had clearly piqued her interest.


    Although she''s a woman positioned so highly, she''s a political creature as well. Nothing could arouse her curiosity more than knowing the political exchanges her opponents engage in.


    ------


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 Chapter 212 Qiu Tu: I Finally Became a Big Shot Too (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    ```Hearing Tang Feifei''s question, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Yes. A clean sweep of all four."


    Qiu Tu said, "Actually, after he vehemently opposed your suggestion at the meeting that I take the position of deputy division chief, I guessed his thoughts."


    "That''s why I cooperated in pressuring both the Municipal Committee and the military."


    "And his second refusal didn''t surprise me either, after all, he''s the Bureau Chief, he wants face; he can''t be forced into giving me the position."


    "In that case, his credibility would completely collapse."


    "Therefore, he had to report my name proactively after conceding to the Municipal Committee."


    "By doing this, he not only fulfilled his promise to me but also, by voluntarily reporting my name, he could garner favor from the Municipal Committee, the military, and the Disciplinary Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was stunned for a second, then laughed and said, "He''s being too greedy."


    "But... will the Municipal Committee and the military remember this favor?"


    Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Of course not."


    "Because he also misjudged the situation."


    Qiu Tu said, "I told him that I am now being put forward by the Municipal Committee and the military to contradict him."


    "So, in his view, the whole incident was initiated by Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai."


    "But in truth... whether it''s Commissioner Jiang or Director Dai''s pressure, it was all exchanged with a favor I gave recently."


    "They didn''t really care whether I got promoted or not. So, they would never acknowledge owing me this favor."


    "Even if Yan Chen really needs to call in this favor in the future, they would only come to me to fulfill it or make an equivalent exchange."


    At this point, Tang Feifei also laughed and joined in the conversation, "And since you''ve already come to an agreement with Yan Chen early on, you won''t have to pay any additional favors or price."


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, that''s exactly it."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu looked out the window at the dark but clear sky and remarked, "Yan Chen actually outsmarted himself this time."


    "However, it''s not his fault, after all... it all comes down to the disparity in information."


    Ever since his first clash with Larilo, and now during the indirect "battle of wits" with Yan Chen, Qiu Tu realized the importance of "information."


    Whether it''s scheming or struggling, information is always paramount.


    In situations like tonight''s, Yan Chen''s tactics were extremely shrewd, but since he was deceived by Qiu Tu with incorrect information, he ended up losing everything.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help taking a deep breath. No matter what, after planning for so long and utilizing so many connections, in the end, he had secured the position of deputy chief of the Political Department!


    The promotion to this position not only officially ushered him onto the stage of the Investigation Bureau''s upper hierarchy but would also transform his Cataclysmic ability, turning him into a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened!


    The only regret was that, although the appointment had now been made, the process was not yet complete.


    To settle things once and for all, everything had to wait until work resumed tomorrow, for the Organizational Department to have a discussion first, then formally bestow the documents, epaulets, and various benefits and entitlements.


    Like a villa, car, personal secretary, personal chauffeur, and so on.


    ''Still have to wait a bit though.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu forced himself to calm his excitement and continued chatting with Tang Feifei.


    "Feifei, can I, as the deputy division chief recommended by the Disciplinary Department, be responsible for other areas besides supervisory work?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then said cautiously, "Of course you can. After all, you are the official deputy division chief."


    "So, in theory, you can compete for all the benefits that come with being a deputy division chief."


    "The key is whether the newly appointed head of the Political Department is willing to give you these responsibilities, and how much you can fight for yourself." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this, Tang Feifei paused, then asked, "Which area do you want?"


    For such a staunch ally as Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu naturally didn''t need to hide anything. He candidly said, "Intelligence."


    "I want the Intelligence Section."


    The reason Qiu Tu chose this direction was not only because of the critical nature of "intelligence work," but also because Qin Shuman was now in charge of intelligence work for the Security Department.


    Given their relationship, sharing information to a certain extent, expanding the intelligence-gathering scope, and covering each other''s deficiencies could greatly enhance the intelligence capabilities of both the Political Department and the Security Department.


    And... to put it more opportunistically, after being in charge of this business, if there''s a period where Qiu Tu makes no progress, couldn''t he also mooch off Qin Shuman and eat soft rice to get by!


    Apart from cooperating with Qin Shuman, another key reason Qiu Tu wanted to delve into intelligence work was Larilo.


    While Qiu Tu had temporarily induced Larilo to let the matter go, he knew that... the deceit would inevitably blow up someday.


    ```


    Once the bomb goes off, Qiu Tu would still have to find ways to continue buying time or to deal with Larilo.


    In such a case, controlling the Security Department''s intelligence operations, Qiu Tu would have first-hand information about Moonlight Lake and Larilo from the Investigation Bureau.


    By then, whether Qiu Tu finds himself in a position where he has no choice but to betray intelligence to Larilo to win a sliver of survival, or he gathers information on Larilo to start dealing with her, he could layout his plans with ease. Stay updated with My Virtual Library Empire


    And don''t forget, up to now, there''s still a secret mole for Larilo within the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    Only by being in charge of the Intelligence Department could Qiu Tu more easily root out that mole....


    Moreover....perhaps it''s a premonition, but Qiu Tu always felt that the incident at Moonlight Lake could likely have a huge and profound impact on the area around Xinjie City, Eastern City, and even the soon-to-be-established Dongye State...


    At such a time, without intelligence, it was like looking at the world blindfolded, groping for the future''s direction in darkness....


    Thus, after chatting with Tang Feifei for a while and determining the subsequent division of efforts, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    After hanging up, he stood by the window, quietly gazing at the night view of Xinjie City.


    Somehow, the nights of Xinjie City gradually gained light. Although it had not yet reached the bustling neon lights of a prosperous metropolis, it was slowly obtaining the glow of civilization.


    Then, recalling Old Alley Street, which had turned into a night market, Qiu Tu suddenly realized that Xinjie City was developing at a remarkably fast pace.


    Luckily, during this period, he was also developing at an astonishing speed.


    From a low-ranking Second-Class Investigator to his current position as Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department, he had worked his way up to where he was now, step by step.


    In the vast Xinjie City, he was ranked within the top 40 in terms of power.


    Finally, people could reluctantly call him a "big shot".....


    ''That was not easy at all!'' Qiu Tu thought, as he tossed his head back and drank down the glass of wine, his heart filled with boundless pride!


    The roc spreads its wings and soars with the wind, rising straight up for ninety thousand miles!


    Qiu Tu believed that this was only the beginning and not the end!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Just as Qiu Tu was feeling high-spirited.


    At that moment, in the office of the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau.


    Zheng Tao sat in front of his desk with a gloomy face.


    After coming out from Guan Weihua''s office, Zheng Tao returned to his own and sat quietly until now.


    From Guan Weihua, not only did Zheng Tao learn about Yan Chen''s favors traded among several government departments, but he also became aware of Qiu Tu''s influence.


    Having Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai speak for Qiu Tu meant he was no simple character, and there was definitely more than just Tang Feifei backing him.


    Although even Guan Weihua couldn''t clarify who exactly stood behind Qiu Tu, he speculated that Qiu Tu might, at some unknown point, have become connected with some big shot in the Sanctuary, gaining that big shot''s protection.


    This revelation made Zheng Tao even more troubled.


    If Qiu Tu truly had such a profound background, then... what did his recent actions provoking Qiu Tu amount to?


    What did his wager with Qiu Tu today amount to?


    In immense regret, Zheng Tao found himself entangled in an enormous dilemma and indecision.


    He had opposed Qiu Tu before because the price for his promotion to Deputy Division Chief was to be in opposition to Qiu Tu in the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    Now that the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case" was over, Zheng Tao no longer needed to oppose Qiu Tu.


    So, the only thing left for him was how to deal with today''s wager....


    After much thought, Zheng Tao made a certain decision: he absolutely couldn''t let Hui Min accompany Qiu Tu!


    He was her husband, how could he do such a thing!


    But what sort of excuse or apology could he offer that would be acceptable to Qiu Tu and not further provoke him?


    And....did Qiu Tu actually know that his wife was his own secretary?


    How exactly should he handle this matter....


    A tangled mess of issues piled up in Zheng Tao''s heart like knotted yarn, difficult to unravel and impossible to cast off.....


    ---------


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 Chapter 213 Larilo: Zheng Tao, Let Your Lady Go (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    After quietly reflecting for a while, Zheng Tao took a deep breath.He felt it was pointless to keep guessing, and that it would be better to go and have a chat with Qiu Tu directly.


    Perhaps many things were not as he imagined. Maybe Qiu Tu wasn''t even thinking about his wife?


    Perhaps, if he simply conceded, acknowledged his mistake sincerely, and offered some kind of compensation, he could resolve this matter?


    With this in mind, Zheng Tao didn''t bother with dinner and got up, preparing to meet Qiu Tu on the 9th floor.


    However, just at that moment.


    Suddenly, his office door was knocked on "Dong Dong Dong."


    As a workaholic and a master of intense internal competition, Zheng Tao could switch to work mode at any time.


    So, even though he was ready to go see Qiu Tu, when he heard the knock at the door, he sat down immediately, adjusted his expression briefly, and then responded in a deep voice, "Come in."


    Along with his voice.


    The door to the office was pushed open, and an investigator with a somewhat unfamiliar face walked in.


    Seeing the unfamiliar face, Zheng Tao asked with a look of confusion, "Who are you?"


    The investigator looked at Zheng Tao with an expressionless face and said assertively, "Director Zheng, an official would like to see you."


    "An official?" Upon hearing the investigator''s words, Zheng Tao was taken aback.


    There were many officials in the Investigation Bureau. Everyone higher than a Deputy Staff could use this title, but only nine true bigwigs of the Investigation Bureau could be referred to as officials by someone like Zheng Tao, a Deputy Division Chief.


    Thinking of this, Zheng Tao didn''t feel enlightened; instead, he became even more puzzled.


    Because... those nine high-level officials all had personal secretaries, and if they wanted to summon someone below them, they would usually send their secretaries.


    Why did they send an ordinary investigator this time?


    With these thoughts in mind, Zheng Tao couldn''t help but probe further, asking, "May I know which official it is?"


    The investigator replied curtly, "Follow me, and you will find out."


    "The official is waiting for you on the 12th floor."


    Despite still having many doubts in his mind after hearing the investigator''s words, Zheng Tao took comfort in the fact that he was going to the 12th floor, where security was assured.


    So, Zheng Tao eventually stood up, nodded, and said, "Alright. I''ll be there shortly."


    He followed the investigator out of the office, took the elevator, and soon arrived on the 12th floor. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Getting off the elevator and continuing to walk forward with the investigator, Zheng Tao quickly arrived at the "official''s" office door.


    Glancing up at the nameplate of the office, a look of surprise flashed through Zheng Tao''s eyes.


    By this time, the investigator had already smoothly pushed open the office door and gestured to Zheng Tao, "Director Zheng, please."


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao quickly adjusted his clothes with his head down, and then stepped quickly into the office.


    Entering the office, he saw a familiar figure already standing by the window, gazing out into the night sky while waiting for him.


    Seeing that figure, Zheng Tao hastily wanted to salute and greet, but at that moment, the person put a finger to their lips, making a "silence" gesture...


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao opened his mouth but ultimately didn''t call out the person''s title.


    The figure gestured for Zheng Tao to sit down and then began speaking slowly, "Zheng Tao... if I remember correctly, you''re also one of the old-timers who came down from the Sanctuary with the Bureau Chief."


    As Zheng Tao nodded, the figure continued, "I''ve looked over your file, and your abilities were very outstanding back in the Sanctuary. Your performance has been remarkable after being dispatched to Xinjie City as well."


    "With your capabilities, in a few more years, after accumulating some merits and seniority, you would have had a good chance to move up the ladder."


    "Unfortunately... a few days ago, you were outmaneuvered by Qiu Tu, losing your prestige in front of so many investigators of the Bureau. Not only did you fail to complete the task the Bureau Chief and I assigned to you, but you also allowed Qiu Tu to expand his influence."


    "This has truly disappointed me, and the Bureau Chief as well..."


    "After all, we promoted you to this position hoping you would rein in Qiu Tu, not to make a fool of yourself."


    Hearing these words, Zheng Tao''s face turned beet-red, and he clenched his fists tightly.


    The previous failure was indeed the greatest humiliation of his life.


    Every time he thought about how he was thoroughly outplayed by Qiu Tu, even to the point where Qiu Tu used a young girl to make a fool of him, he wished he could crawl into a hole and hide.


    These past few days, he had thrown himself back into the grind, immersing himself in the work at the Public Security Bureau, partly to numb his own thoughts.


    So, it really was a thorn in his side.


    His headstrong wager with Qiu Tu today was also due to this reason.


    Thinking of this, Zheng Tao felt even more distressed.


    And at that moment, the figure spoke again slowly, "However, the Bureau Chief and I can give you another chance."


    "This time, if you do well, then the Bureau Chief and I will still consider promoting you for further use."


    At the figure''s words, Zheng Tao was initially stunned, then his face lit up with surprise as he looked up.


    Zheng Tao tried hard to suppress the excitement in his heart, but his fervent eyes still betrayed his inner thoughts, "Do I still have a chance?"


    He tentatively asked, "Will I be able to rise to the position of division chief in the future?"


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the figure laughed heartily, "Ha ha," twice before speaking with gravity, "Division Chief?"


    "You''re aiming too low."


    "If this matter is handled well, we can follow the Investigation Bureau''s process for cultivating core members by transferring you back to the Sanctuary to get a gilt edge, and then parachuting you into a position within the state after Dongye State is established."


    "By then, let alone a division chief, even being a Bureau Chief of a city or a legislator of a state wouldn''t be impossible."


    Upon hearing the figure''s grand promise, Zheng Tao''s breathing became rapid for a moment.


    The sequence of nurturing core members in the Investigation Bureau is to first gain a basic identity in the Sanctuary, then be demoted to the Planning Area for rapid promotion, return to the Sanctuary for another gilding and then be demoted again for promotion.


    This method allows for special promotion without the need for those above to vacate their positions.


    It is the true core succession route for rising up the ranks in the Investigation Bureau.


    And now... it could be given to him?


    Honestly, Zheng Tao tried to keep his rationality intact, to not frivolously believe in the lofty promises made by his superior, but... one should know that his recent promotion was arranged by this upper-echelon individual!


    The other party was not just making empty promises but was genuinely offering tangible benefits!


    Therefore, he really couldn''t help being tempted!


    However, Zheng Tao also knew that one must pay a price to gain something.


    The greater the harvest, the more one must pay...


    So he tried his best to control his desire, to restrain, and then to restrain some more...


    And then he failed to restrain himself.


    His eyes blazing with eagerness, he looked at the figure in front of him and asked, "Superior, what would you like me to do?"


    Seeing Zheng Tao take the bait, a subtle smile crept across the figure''s mouth.


    He turned around to face Zheng Tao, fiddling with an antique coin in his hand, and then asked softly, "I''ve heard... you''ve made a bet with Qiu Tu?"


    Zheng Tao''s gaze was attracted by that coin.


    The figure continued, "The wager is to lend him your secretary for two days...?"


    Hearing the figure''s words, Zheng Tao felt a sudden, ominous premonition.


    As expected, while playing with the antique coin, the figure said cheerfully, "And if I remember correctly, your secretary is your wife, isn''t she?"


    "I recall that according to the rules of the Investigation Bureau, this position cannot be held by a relative. Although you took many precautions to ensure both of you could work in the same department, avoiding recording your marital relationship in Xinjie City''s archives."


    "Yet in the Sanctuary''s records, you are unmistakably husband and wife."


    "Your little tricks might work on others, but to us, they are as transparent as glass."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao swallowed hard, feeling a chill run through his body... His knuckles white from gripping his hands tightly.


    Seeing this, the figure gave Zheng Tao two seconds to relax before he continued deliberately, "So, my task for you is to extend this bet. Send your wife to Qiu Tu''s side to monitor him."


    "I will have someone deliberately delay arranging a secretary for Qiu Tu, leaving him with no one available, forcing him to use your wife."


    "And what your wife needs to do is to gain his trust in these few days, ideally becoming his true secretary."


    "This way, we can know Qiu Tu''s movements in real time and be aware of his various plans. When necessary, we can even send him some... little gifts."


    Hearing the figure''s proposition, Zheng Tao was clearly still struggling.


    He said bitterly, "Superior, is it possible to use someone else...?"


    "For instance, I fulfill the bet by sending another person to be Qiu Tu''s secretary; or you could directly arrange a more suitable spy to be his secretary."


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the figure rebuked sharply, "Nonsense!"


    "You know just how cautious Qiu Tu is."


    "If I were to directly arrange a new secretary for him, would he easily trust them? If you suddenly switch to another person, wouldn''t he be suspicious?"


    "Only because of such a sudden wager, and because he was the one who initiated the bet, will he believe that the secretary hasn''t been arranged by anyone."


    "All secretaries are uniformly trained and arranged by the Administrative Office, and your ''secretary'' has just been selected by you. In his eyes, she hasn''t yet formed a bond with you and is a blank slate."


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    "Only such a uniquely favorable condition for trust will make him take the bait!"


    "Otherwise, why do you think I would come to you!"


    Hearing the words of the high-ranking individual before him, Zheng Tao lowered his head and fell silent.


    Possibly sensing the resistance in Zheng Tao''s heart, the figure let out a faint sigh.


    He walked up to Zheng Tao, reached out to grip the antique coin in his hand, brought it close to Zheng Tao, and said softly, "Zheng Tao, what if I say, this is Her Highness Larilo''s arrangement."


    "That she has specifically chosen your wife to go...?"


    ----


    Still 10,000 words for these three chapters. More tomorrow! Vote for monthly tickets!

 Chapter 214 Zheng Tao: Wife, I Lost You to Qiu Tu (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)

    At that moment, Zheng Tao''s body shook violently, as he suddenly looked up with an incredulous expression toward the person before him....His eyes were full of shock, clearly not expecting to hear "Larilo" from the lips of the figure before him.


    Seeing this, the figure chuckled lightly, and tossed the ancient coin into Zheng Tao''s hands, saying, "Check Her Highness Larilo''s token."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao''s hands trembled as he received the token.


    The coin had been in the figure''s hands for quite some time, so it felt warm to the touch.


    Zheng Tao meticulously inspected the token according to the method Larilo had taught him.


    After confirming the token indeed belonged to Larilo, he respectfully handed it back to the figure, his gaze complex as he looked at him, "Sir...I never thought you would be a follower of Her Highness Larilo, too."


    The figure took the ancient coin back, and with a hint of mockery, countered, "Otherwise, do you really think you were chosen for the promotion to Deputy Division Chief purely on merit?"


    Zheng Tao:.....


    Seeing Zheng Tao''s embarrassment, the figure chuckled again, as if amused by Zheng Tao''s na?vet¨¦ in truly believing in pies falling from the sky....


    In this world, without backing or power, not even accidental fortunes fall your way!


    However, knowing that he still needed Zheng Tao for the upcoming plan, the figure refrained from further mockery and paused before humoring Zheng Tao a bit, "Of course...apart from our relationship, your promotion is indeed also due to your respectable abilities."


    Sure enough, upon hearing this, Zheng Tao''s look slightly cleared up. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing this, the figure then continued back to the main topic. His voice carrying serious weight, he said, "I know you''re not truly a follower of Her Highness Larilo, you have only received Her Highness''s ''favor''...."


    At the mention of "favor", Zheng Tao''s hand clenched slightly....


    The figure, "But since you have received the favor, you''ve been marked by Her Highness, destined to be a follower. So, now you must work for Her Highness."


    "And now Her Highness needs you, needs your wife to make a small sacrifice, you should know what to do, right?"


    At this, the figure paused.


    Possibly worried about pressuring Zheng Tao too much, he softened his tone before saying, "And you should not feel any psychological pressure."


    "Your wife is just going to serve as a personal secretary to Qiu Tu."


    "It''s not like she''s being asked to sell herself."


    "Although Qiu Tu can be a bastard in his actions, he has his own limits. He wouldn''t dare to casually harm someone in such a sensitive position."


    "So, as long as your wife is careful, there will be no trouble."


    Hearing the figure''s words, Zheng Tao''s face still showed hesitation.


    He clearly didn''t want to accept this mission. But thinking of Larilo...thinking of the terrible Evil God, and that his very life and fortune were in another''s hands.


    After hesitating for ten seconds, he ultimately submitted....


    This couldn''t really be blamed on him.


    There were only two choices before him now.


    One was to obey the powerful figure before him, which would allow him to maintain his status as Chief and possibly reach even greater heights.


    The other was to refuse, which could lead not only to being abandoned but possibly executed by Larilo.


    It seemed he had two choices, yet in reality...he had no choice at all.


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao felt a surge of despair within himself, regretting ever accepting Larilo''s ''favor.''


    If it hadn''t been for that affair, perhaps he wouldn''t be in his current predicament.


    But with things as they were, he had no choice but to bite the bullet and proceed. So he took a deep breath and said, "Yes, sir. I accept the mission."


    Seeing Zheng Tao finally agree, a smile finally appeared on the figure''s face.


    He clapped his hands with a smile, saying, "Good. It seems Her Highness was not mistaken about you."


    "Now it all depends on you, and your wife."


    "When you go back, make sure to prepare your wife well."


    "Let her willingly accept the mission, and not show any flaws."


    "Qiu Tu is a very cautious, sensitive man. Gaining his trust is not going to be easy."


    "Your wife may have to think of many ways, even come up with clever ideas to ingratiate herself to him, in order to gain his acceptance over time."


    "Only when he has truly accepted your wife and fully trusted her, seeing her as one of his own, can your wife obtain critically important intelligence from him, and be a decisive force at crucial moments...."


    Hearing the figure repeatedly mention "your wife," Zheng Tao felt extremely uncomfortable.


    Especially when hearing that his wife should please and take care of Qiu Tu, he felt an indescribable sense of frustration.


    But with the situation as it was, he had no capacity to dissent anymore. So, he could only sigh heavily, "Yes, sir. I''ll have a good talk with my wife when I get back."


    Upon hearing this, the figure hummed in acknowledgment and then gently waved his hand, "Then you may leave."


    Zheng Tao, seeing this, reluctantly saluted and then left the office with his head bowed....


    And as Zheng Tao departed, the office door slowly closed. Only the figure remained in the room, alone in existence.


    He sat behind his desk, his gaze gentle as he played with the ancient coin, just gently toying with it.

 Chapter 214 Zheng Tao: Wife, I Lost You to Qiu Tu (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)_2

    After a moment, he gently tossed the coin onto the desk.The next second, the coin slowly vaporized, and Larilo''s exquisite head appeared on the office desk.


    She still bore the sultry appearance of a mature woman, like an enthusiastic barmaid, with desire in her eyes that seemed capable of burning everything.


    Upon seeing Larilo, the figure also slightly bowed and paid respects, "Your Highness. As you heard just now... although Zheng Tao has accepted, he''s clearly reluctant. I''m worried that if he isn''t prepared, it will affect your plans."


    Having said this, the figure paused briefly, then added, "Additionally, Your Highness, are you perhaps paying too much attention to Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing this, Larilo smiled wickedly and said with the look of someone strategizing, "Paying attention? The secrets that Qiu Tu holds are indeed worth my attention."


    "Besides, he has not only secrets but also several key intelligence lines in his hands."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s stunning face looked towards the figure before her, and with a coy smile said, "And some of that intelligence from those lines, even you don''t have."


    "Therefore, if Zheng Tao''s wife really can infiltrate Qiu Tu''s side and obtain some valuable intelligence from him, I think no matter the cost... it''s worth it...."


    "After all, every additional piece of valuable intelligence during the upcoming birth at Moonlight Lake can have a major impact on the entire outcome...."


    "As for... Zheng Tao." As Larilo said this, she smiled derisively, "He was originally just an expendable I inadvertently placed years ago."


    "If he''s useful, that''s great; if not, I''ll make sure he keeps quiet...."


    "With the Investigation Bureau line, as long as you don''t encounter any problems, nothing else matters."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Zheng Tao left the office that had changed his destiny with heavy steps.


    He stepped into the 12th-floor elevator and pressed the button for the 2nd floor. As the elevator descended slowly, Zheng Tao felt his entire heart weigh down.


    Truth be told, even though he had accepted the task from that influential figure, Zheng Tao still had no idea how to break the news to his wife.


    What could he say? S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tell his wife that she needed to serve another man? To be another man''s secretary?


    Or that he lost her to another man in a bet?


    With these thoughts, Zheng Tao felt an immense regret.


    He felt he should not have taken that elevator today, should have kept his composure, and should not have accepted Qiu Tu''s wager. Otherwise, it wouldn''t have led to so many complications.


    "Ding!" The elevator reached the second floor.


    The elevator doors slowly opened.


    Zheng Tao walked back to his office with an emotionless face.


    Standing at the entrance to his office, he sighed deeply, then took out his keys, ready to unlock the door.


    Just as his key was inserted into the lock, the office door suddenly opened by itself.


    Zheng Tao looked up in bewilderment, only to see his wife, Tan Huimin, standing at the doorway, looking at him tenderly, "Ah... Chief, you''re back?"


    Seeing that Zheng Tao wasn''t angry about her slip of the tongue, Tan Huimin cutely stuck out her tongue, then said with a smile, "I just brought some documents to your office and noticed you weren''t there, so I did a bit of cleaning."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao looked up at his office.


    The somewhat cluttered office he left was now impeccably tidy and clean.


    The floor had not only been swept and mopped, but all the documents were also sorted and placed on the desk.


    And that wasn''t all.


    Perhaps having noticed that the food in the lunchbox had gone cold, Tan Huimin had also ordered a fresh meal made, now sitting on his desk, steaming slightly.


    Seeing all this, Zheng Tao suddenly felt an incredible dryness in his throat.


    He opened his mouth to say something but, after opening and closing it several times, he ended up only uttering two words, "Thank you."


    Tan Huimin did not notice anything odd about her husband. She peeped her head out, looked around to see that no one was watching, quickly pulled Zheng Tao into the office.


    Then she closed the door and pushed Zheng Tao to his desk.


    "I know you must have skipped your meal today because of overtime," she said.


    "So, I had someone make you two dishes. They''re still warm, eat them while they''re hot."


    After saying this, perhaps afraid of Zheng Tao''s rebuke, Tan Huimin said somewhat uneasily, "I think it won''t take much time to eat."


    "You need to eat well to have the energy to work, right?"


    Looking at the few dishes in the lunchbox on the table, Zheng Tao felt even more bitter inside.


    He was silent for two seconds and finally nodded, then sat down and began to eat.


    While eating, Tan Huimin just sat across from him, resting her chin on her hand, quietly watching Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao might have felt a bit awkward being watched, so while eating, he asked, "What are you looking at me for?"


    Tan Huimin spoke softly, "I just feel that it''s not easy for you, that you work so hard."


    She said, "Over these years, you''ve endured so much hardship and done so much, and finally, you''ve become the Deputy Division Chief."


    "And I''ve never been able to help you. I can''t even take good care of your meals or your sleep..."


    "Sometimes, I feel a bit useless..."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao''s chopsticks paused slightly.


    As a political creature, he did not feel moved by his wife''s heartfelt confession, all he considered were the benefits.


    So... he was silent for a long while, then as if he had made up his mind, he picked up the food with his head lowered and tentatively asked, "Hui Min... do you really feel that way?"


    Tan Huimin nodded slightly, "Yes... I''ve been very distressed for you these past two years."


    Zheng Tao''s movements slowed down even more, so slow that it seemed as if he was not holding chopsticks, but two ten-thousand-pound stones in his hands.


    Lowering his head, he spoke slowly, "Then... if you could help me, would you be willing to help?"


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin naively said, "Of course I am willing. I''ll do anything to help you."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao slowly raised his head, his eyes becoming unfathomably deep and dark, "Then... I hope you can spend some time with Qiu Tu these next few days."


    Tan Huimin: ??


    Perhaps because she was not very familiar with the Investigation Bureau''s affairs, it took Tan Huimin a moment to remember who Qiu Tu was.


    It took her a while to recall in her mind that Qiu Tu was the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division (Principal Staff) who had slapped her husband in the face yesterday.


    She was taken aback for a second, then asked, "Spend time with him? What do you mean?"


    Facing his wife, Zheng Tao naturally couldn''t be too blunt.


    So he could only say half-truthfully, "You know, Qiu Tu is my arch-enemy."


    "A few days ago, he made me lose face in front of so many agents at the Investigation Bureau."


    "And today, he has been promoted to Deputy Chief of the Political Department."


    "I''m really worried that once he gets above me, he will suppress and target me in return."


    "So, I need someone I can trust to infiltrate his side, gain his trust, observe his every move, and report back to me at all times."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin paused for a moment, then hesitantly said, "But... I am your secretary, your wife. How can I get close to him, and how could he possibly trust me?"


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s doubts, Zheng Tao seemed to have made up his mind at last.


    He took a deep breath, then slowly said, "It''s simple. Because... I bet with him and I lost you to him."


    "So, if you are willing, you can go to his side at any time."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin''s beautiful oval face furrowed in disbelief as she looked at her husband...


    ----


    There are still 3 chapters of 10,000 words today. The next chapter will be updated between 23-24 o''clock, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 215 The Revelation of Liu Fupings Identity (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    ```Fearing she might have misheard, Tan Huimin frowned and sought confirmation again, "You said... What did you say?"


    "You bet me to Qiu Tu?"


    Perhaps because he had already spoken about the most critical issue, Zheng Tao was no longer scared. So he simply threw down his chopsticks and blurted out in frustration, "Yes. I bet you to Qiu Tu."


    He said, "We made a bet. The bet was whether the new deputy head of the Political Department was him or not."


    "I bet it wasn''t. The wager was you accompanying him for two days."


    "In the end, I lost the bet."


    Hearing the words that were almost unbearable to listen to from Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin''s face flushed with anger, her chest heaving violently.


    She glared at Zheng Tao, her beautiful face full of disappointment, "Zheng Tao! How could you do such a thing!"


    "I''m your wife! Not some plaything! How could you use me as a betting chip!"


    Seeing Tan Huimin getting angry, Zheng Tao didn''t feel the slightest bit of sympathy. On the contrary, he grew even more irritable.


    He cut off Tan Huimin abruptly, then with a darkened face, said gravely, "First of all, it wasn''t me who treated you as a betting chip, it was Qiu Tu who proposed it."


    "Secondly, our relationship isn''t public knowledge at the Bureau, so he doesn''t know you''re my spouse. He just mentioned wanting to borrow my secretary for two days."


    "At that moment, could I directly refuse, saying you weren''t suitable as a wager? Wouldn''t that expose our relationship?"


    "Finally..."


    At this point, Zheng Tao paused, then told a lie, "This gamble, in fact, we can never lose."


    "When he proposed the bet, I had already thought it through. If he lost, he would have to pay a price. Not only could I reclaim the dignity I lost yesterday, but I could also stem his rising momentum."


    "If he won..."


    Continuing, Zheng Tao gave his wife a deep look, "Then I take the opportunity to send you over. You infiltrate his circle, gain his trust, collect evidence of his crimes, and when the time comes, turn against him." Discover stories with My Virtual Library Empire sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This way, we can once and for all resolve this opponent of mine, right?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin''s expression involuntarily showed contemplation.


    She pondered for a moment, then hesitantly asked, "Are you sure... it''s just for me to go over there and gather information?"


    Seeing Tan Huimin''s attitude soften a little, Zheng Tao quickly wrapped his arms around her shoulders, reassuringly saying, "Of course."


    "I don''t have any strange fetishes."


    He softly brainwashed his wife, "After you go there, it''s best if you can dig up some information, but don''t worry if you can''t. I just want to place a thorn in his side that can be called upon when necessary."


    "So, don''t put too much pressure on yourself, and be sure to protect yourself. Don''t let that bastard take advantage of you."


    "For the rest, just play it by ear. If things get tough, sweet-talk him a bit, flatter him. As long as you can stay by his side, you''re bound to be a great help to me in the future..."


    After listening to Zheng Tao''s words, sure enough, Tan Huimin''s stance softened further. She began to seriously consider his plan.


    After a moment of contemplation, Tan Huimin quietly asked, "But... can Qiu Tu really keep me around? Why would he trust me?"


    Zheng Tao, who earlier received advice from a high-level contact, confidently said, "Of course he might keep you around. The reason is simple."


    "Qiu Tu is a very sensitive and suspicious person. He''ll easily doubt everything around him."


    "With the tension in the Bureau, he might not trust any secretary arranged by the Bureau."


    "On the other hand, a secretary like you, who he won on a whim, he''ll feel is more reliable."


    "So, as long as you act a bit more considerate and attentive in front of him these two days, he definitely won''t want to let you go."


    "Then, I''ll find someone to stall his new secretary''s appointment. He''ll surely take a liking to you, trying every means to keep you."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin looked at him with a complex gaze.


    Although what Zheng Tao said sounded very convincing, a woman''s intuition still left Tan Huimin feeling uneasy.


    But now, with Zheng Tao having said so much, as a wife, she had no room to refuse.


    Therefore, she could only sigh, lower her gaze to her ample chest, give a slight nod, and then said, "Fine... I''ll try."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao visibly breathed a sigh of relief. He reached out to hold Tan Huimin''s hand, softly saying, "Thank you, Hui Min."


    Tan Huimin was expressionless, "Hmm..."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu was still unaware that a conspiracy was closing in on him.


    At that moment, he was at Liu Fuping''s home, drinking wine and chatting with Liu Fuping.


    Perhaps because both Jia Shu and Jia Wei were dead, and Director Liu''s son''s vengeance had been fulfilled, Liu Fuping was evidently very excited and happy that night.


    Resting her cheek on her hand, tilting her head, she held a glass of red wine and said tipsily to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, do you know? The grudge for Brother Kai has weighed on Director Liu and me for many years."


    "All these years, I''ve dreamed of Brother Kai lying in a pool of blood every single night."


    ```


    As she spoke, her eyes reddened slightly, and tears uncontrollably streamed down her face, "And now, I''ve finally avenged his death."


    "My heart can finally be at ease."


    At this moment, Qiu Tu had also learned her true identity from Liu Fuping''s lips: She was the fianc¨¦e of Director Liu''s son, Liu Kai...


    According to Liu Fuping, her parents and Director Liu were old acquaintances, who had fled together to Cuishan City years ago. Director Liu had become a detective through selection, while her family started a small business.


    Because they frequently interacted and were close in age, she and Director Liu''s son, Liu Kai, gradually developed feelings for each other. Both families noticed this and thought it wouldn''t be bad to strengthen the bond through marriage.


    Therefore, they arranged for the two to be wed and were preparing to choose a date for the wedding.


    However, during the waiting period for the wedding, Yan Chen and Jia Shu, along with students from the Eighth Sanctuary [Military Officers'' Academy], came down to participate in practical activities. And Liu Kai... was brutally murdered by the Jia brothers, Jia Wei and Jia Shu.


    Thus, Liu Fuping became a "widow" before she could even marry...


    This is also how she came by the identity of a "widow"... (Chapter 54)


    After Liu Kai''s death, Liu Fuping was overwhelmed with grief, almost unable to recover. It was only because Jia Wei had not been sentenced to death that she found the strength to live on¡ªshe wanted to avenge Liu Kai!


    Over the years, she and Director Liu had been tracking down Jia Wei''s whereabouts together; Director Liu used official channels, while she used her parents'' business channels.


    But they could never find any trace of Jia Wei.


    It was only until two or three years ago that Director Liu heard Yan Chen would be transferred from the Sanctuary to become the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City.


    So, he began training a group of spies, planning to deploy them in Xinjie City to counter Yan Chen, and hoping to trace Jia Wei through the connection with Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Liu Fuping learned of this plan.


    She volunteered eagerly to take part in the undercover mission to Xinjie City.


    Initially, both Director Liu and her parents disagreed, but they could not dissuade her resolute heart.


    As a result, after over a year of training, Liu Fuping came to Xinjie City under the alias "Liu Fuping"...


    "Liu" was after Liu Kai''s surname, and "Fuping" represented her years of drifting and... the impermanence of fate.


    In life, one might experience various changes and uncertainties. No one knows whether tomorrow or an accident will come first...


    Just like the rootless... water hyacinth.


    After recalling Liu Fuping''s past in his mind, Qiu Tu felt a trace of admiration for the woman before him.


    No matter when, a person of such deep loyalty and strong feeling deserves admiration.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also lifted his glass and clinked it with Liu Fuping''s.


    After the toast, they both drained their glasses, and Qiu Tu asked softly, "So, are you... really planning to leave Xinjie City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping threw a coquettish glance at him and chuckled, "Why? Will you miss me?"


    Possibly because of the blush from alcohol, or perhaps because of the lighting, Liu Fuping looked especially enchanting tonight.


    As he poured wine for both of them, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Not really. It just feels a bit sudden."


    Liu Fuping swirled her wine glass, her gaze hazy and her voice languid, "It''s not really sudden though..."


    "My mission was to investigate the murderer of Brother Kai."


    "Now that both Jia Shu and Jia Wei are dead, my mission is complete."


    "Though Yan Chen, the ''accomplice,'' is still alive in this world. But with my identity exposed, staying here wouldn''t be much help, and it might even lead them to trace back to other scouts."


    "So, I must leave."


    "Only if I leave can I protect the spy network that the Chief has worked so hard to establish."


    With that said, Liu Fuping smiled and continued, "Besides... with such a great contribution, I''m sure to get promoted upon returning!"


    "With the Chief''s generosity, I might even get to be a Section Leader or a Section Chief."


    "That''s certainly better than staying under your command and toiling away as a First Level Detective forever, right?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He joked, "So, it seems that I''ve been holding back your career, haven''t I?"


    With that said, Qiu Tu raised his glass again, "Then here''s to Section Leader Liu, no... Section Chief Liu''s bright future!"


    Though he seemed carefree, to tell the truth, Qiu Tu was indeed reluctant to part with Liu Fuping. After all, Liu Fuping''s gentleness and considerateness were unique to him.


    Uh... more importantly... he hadn''t had the chance to savor a moment with both Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei together. He was not content!


    At this time, Liu Fuping might have sensed Qiu Tu''s emotions as well.


    She laughed "gigglingly" while toasting with Qiu Tu, and while drinking, she said, "Actually... you don''t have to miss me."


    "We... might see each other again soon."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, Liu Fuping''s eyes, soft as water, gazed at him and she whispered, "Dongye State will be established soon. I might likely take up a post in the state."


    ----


    Today is still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The next chapter will be updated between 23 and 24 o''clock, asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 216 A Night with Liu Fuping (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket)

    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu was startled.He couldn''t help but look up at Liu Fuping, "You''re going to take up a post in Dongye State?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s surprise, a smile curled up at the corner of Liu Fuping''s mouth. She said with a smile, "Yes."


    "After all, my parents have built up a bit of a business in the Planning Area over the years. I also have some connections in the Sanctuary."


    "Plus with Director Liu''s support, my transfer to a state position shouldn''t be a problem."


    Qiu Tu let out a hiss, then said, "I didn''t expect that. Your transfer feels like it''s going to shoot you straight to the top."


    "Next time I see you, I might have to address you as my superior, right?"


    Liu Fuping covered her mouth and snickered, then teasingly slanted her eyes, "That might just be the case."


    She reached out to hook Qiu Tu''s chin, then said with a hint of flirtation, "So... little man, you''d better sweet-talk me properly."


    "Otherwise, I might make things difficult for you when the time comes."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu too was amused.


    He lowered his head to bite her finger, like an onion stalk, then chuckled, "I might not be good at many things, but... I''m quite adept at taking care of my superiors."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping burst into a giggling fit, her laughter causing her chest to quiver uncontrollably, nearly blurring Qiu Tu''s vision.


    Qiu Tu simply couldn''t be bothered with eating anymore. He stood up and moved next to Liu Fuping.


    After her laughter, Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu with a blank face, not understanding what was happening.


    Qiu Tu said, "Get up."


    As soon as Liu Fuping heard this, her face blushed slightly as if realizing something, and then she stood up.


    Qiu Tu then took her seat and stretched out his arms to hug her, lifting her onto his lap.


    After that, while stroking Liu Fuping''s legs that were smooth as creamy jade, he praised, "Nice! This is how you enjoy a meal!"


    "Shameless!" Seeing Qiu Tu''s free-spirited demeanor, Liu Fuping laughed so hard she was shaking like a leaf.


    Sitting on Qiu Tu''s lap, she busied herself serving him food while saying, "By the way, the Bureau Chief contacted me today and made it a point to thank you."


    "He said he owes you a big favor, and if there''s ever anything he can do for you, just let him know."


    While caressing Liu Fuping''s slender legs, Qiu Tu spoke nonchalantly, "Verbal thanks are no different from none at all."


    "I''d rather have something more substantial."


    Liu Fuping covered her mouth and laughed, "What more do you want?"


    "You''ve already had your way with his daughter-in-law." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu: !!


    "What kind of talk is that! Weren''t we both in mutual agreement, carried away by our feelings, irresistible to each other?"


    "How did it become a one-sided affair of me having my way with you?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, then he pointed at his handsome face and patted his well-defined six-pack abs, saying, "With looks like these, with muscles like these"


    "If we slept together, you''re the one getting the deal! It''s lucky I didn''t charge you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s shameless words, Liu Fuping''s face turned a deeper shade of red, and she spat, "Pah!"


    "So shameless."


    Yet after laughing and cursing, Liu Fuping also recalled that wild night with Qiu Tu, and inexplicably, her eyes grew moist.


    She lowered her head, looking boldly and directly at Qiu Tu, then said, "But... little man."


    "I''m leaving tomorrow. Don''t you have any parting gift for me tonight?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping''s ravenous expression, Qiu Tu quickly grasped her intent.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu cast aside all pretenses. He picked up Liu Fuping and in a swift motion, swept all the dishes and tablecloth off the table onto the floor!


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    He pressed Liu Fuping against the table.


    That night, Qiu Tu truly experienced what it meant by ''a woman''s waist, a deadly blade''...


    And Liu Fuping "received" Qiu Tu''s deeply affectionate "rich and thick" farewell gift...


    .....


    The next morning dawned.


    Qiu Tu awoke from his sleep. Liu Fuping, tired from the night''s activities, was still deeply asleep.


    Qiu Tu yawned, reminisced a little, and felt that only such a night was truly enjoyable. Striving like Tang Feifei was abnormal!


    ''I wonder... after this promotion and the enhancement of my Cataclysmic ability, will my physical condition be strengthened.''


    ''When it comes to it, a Second-Order Catastropher facing a Third Order Cataclysmic shouldn''t be as strained as now, right?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu involuntarily remembered the second bottle of Cataclysmic Awakening Potion and the Cataclysmic Material that ensured a 100% success rate to upgrade his Potion, which he had crafted but not yet used.


    With these two items in hand, Qiu Tu theoretically had a 100% chance to cultivate two Cataclymics.


    As for whom to cultivate, the choice was simple: the 100% Awakening Elixir for Ah-Tai, and the one with the attached Cataclysmic ability for Eagle.


    After all, with Ah-Tai''s size and combat strength, it was likely he would develop some powerful Cataclysmic ability.


    As for Eagle... looking so listless, it would be good enough if he could become a Cataclysmic.


    They were also Qiu Tu''s most loyal and closely bonded subordinates. Cultivating them, Qiu Tu wouldn''t be at a loss.


    As for why he waited until now to cultivate them.


    The main reason was...


    Loyalty isn''t omnipotent; throughout history, many a once-loyal subordinate spawned ambition from their own growing power and influence, eventually turning against their master.


    Although Qiu Tu trusted in Ah-Tai and Eagle''s loyalty, he didn''t want to put their allegiance to the test.


    Prior to this, Qiu Tu was only a First-Order Cataclysmic. Should Ah-Tai and Eagle become more powerful and truly develop their own ambitions, Qiu Tu would have no way to control them.


    Now that he had advanced to Second Order, these concerns had dissipated like smoke...


    Moreover, Qiu Tu wasn''t planning to simply hand them the rewards. Instead, he intended to make them earn their chances.


    The elixirs could be given to them first, but they must bring enough merit or Cataclysmic Material in exchange, or prepare a new Cataclysmic Potion for the next subordinate.


    Only by establishing a healthy "reward and punishment mechanism" could Qiu Tu''s small organization run positively, offering him more assistance.


    And at that moment, as Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Fuping slowly woke up from her slumber.


    Her face was still flush from the passionate battle of the previous night, her gaze hazy.


    Her soft and smoldering body pressed against Qiu Tu''s chest, flattening like a white pancake.


    "Why did you get up so early..." Liu Fuping whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear...


    Qiu Tu shivered all over, then looked up at Liu Fuping.


    Her watery eyes were filled with desire...


    "I want more..."


    Men cannot resist such a voice, and so, another fierce battle began...


    When Qiu Tu sent Liu Fuping off in a sedan, and she left with a lingering gaze at 3 p.m.


    Leaning against his rickety car, Qiu Tu watched the military green jeep fading into the distance, took out a cigarette, lit it, and quietly smoked it to the end...


    After this farewell, when they met again, Liu Fuping would no longer be the little investigator who needed his protection against the elements.


    She might well have transformed into some department head, legislative assistant, or other senior official.


    For a moment, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that the "fate" of this life was a bit peculiar.


    The women around him seemed to either rise quickly in rank or already held high positions.


    ''So, is heaven hinting that I stop trying and just enjoy being kept?''


    At this thought, having finished his cigarette, Qiu Tu fiercely stamped out the butt, then resolved in his heart, ''Even if I''m being kept, I''m going to be kept by a hundred homes!''


    ''Can''t be tied down by just one home''s food!''


    ''Having lived a second time, I have to live it carefree!''


    ''To do that, I still need to improve my physical fitness! At the very least, I can''t let that crappy Third Order Cataclysmic look down on me!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu got into the car, ignited it, and drove off full of lofty ambitions toward the Investigation Bureau, ready for a promotion!


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time Qiu Tu was driving toward the Investigation Bureau.


    At this time, the Public Security Bureau''s 8.19 Investigation Team was in complete chaos.


    The reason was very simple. That is... the Organizational Department had sent someone to talk to Qiu Tu first thing in the morning to start the promotion process. And yet... Qiu Tu hadn''t come to work all morning.


    Moreover, he wasn''t answering calls, and upon visiting his home, they found he''d moved out...


    And that wasn''t all.


    Apart from the Organizational Department looking for him, there was also a woman named Tan Huimin who claimed to be Qiu Tu''s secretary, sitting in the office waiting for Qiu Tu.


    This left Qiu Tu''s subordinates a bit baffled, not understanding why their boss hadn''t yet been promoted, but his secretary had already been arranged...


    Here, the most excited was the gossiping Song Qing.


    Her large eyes kept glancing at Tan Huimin, then she sneaked over to Cao Dabiao and whispered, "Brother Biao, could this be the boss''s romantic debts??????"


    ------


    This chapter was blocked several times and just released after editing some terms.


    Today, still 3 chapters of 10,000 words ha. Continue with another 10,000 words tomorrow! Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 217 Taking Office! Perks after the Promotion (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Cao Dabiao was already frantic with Qiu Tu''s "disappearance", and when he heard Song Qing''s gossipy inquiry, he almost couldn''t keep it together.However, he was always slippery: there were only two women in the investigation team. Almost anyone who wasn''t blind could see the relationship between Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping. So who could say for sure whether Song Qing was sister-in-law reserve.


    So, although Cao Dabiao was irritated, he still picked up his teacup, took a sip, and then said to Song Qing in a soothing tone, "Investigator Song, we mustn''t casually talk about things without evidence."


    "That could cause trouble for the superiors."


    "Many rumors start like that."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s gentle criticism, Song Qing stuck out her tongue and then said, "Let''s not talk about the superiors'' romantic debts, let''s talk about Sister Liu instead."


    As she said this, she looked around, then cutely poked Cao Dabiao and whispered secretively, "Sister Liu didn''t come to work yesterday. She''s not here today either."


    "And by coincidence, the superior isn''t here today either."


    "You think... they couldn''t have eloped, could they?"


    "Pfft!" Cao Dabiao nearly spouted his water.


    He hurriedly stood up, then whispered anxiously, "Ma''am, you really mustn''t speculate wildly here."


    "Everyone is already feeling unsettled. You''ll further shake morale."


    Song Qing wasn''t a girl who lacked a sense of reason. She was just really bored.


    Thinking back to their Interrogation Section''s team of four: Qiu Tu, herself, Liu Fuping, Wang Xi, with cases being taken and people leaving, only she was left behind.


    The other investigators in the team were mostly burly men from the Action Division, and she really had no one to chat with, which was why she came to gossip.


    Now, seeing Cao Dabiao looking so nervous, she knew she shouldn''t make wild guesses at this juncture.


    As a result, she could only go back to her own desk, boredly picked up the communicator, and started playing Tetris.


    Meanwhile, at the same time as Song Qing was chatting with Cao Dabiao, Tan Huimin was sitting on a chair, quietly observing everyone in the office.


    The state of the 8.19 investigation team''s members was clearly different from those under her husband Zheng Tao.


    Her husband''s investigators were busy to death every day, barely having a moment to rest, and even then, her husband would make them work overtime.


    So... even though everyone was busy and working at full capacity, they all seemed very repressed, with weariness written all over their faces and not a hint of a smile.


    But the members of the 8.19 investigation team were different.


    It might be because the case was over, or maybe because Qiu Tu treated them very leniently. There were sincere smiles on their faces.


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    Whether they were working or just chatting, you could clearly see they all had very close relationships.


    This discovery made Tan Huimin more curious about this investigation team, about Qiu Tu.


    What kind of person could stand out from the high-intensity work at the Investigation Bureau, not only making his subordinates live comfortably but also climbing several ranks within a short period of time...?


    And at that moment, while she was pondering this, suddenly, someone pushed open the door of the office from outside. Ding Xiaoliu ran in excitedly and shouted, "The chief is back at the Bureau, he''s back!"


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s words, the office erupted into excitement.


    Cao Dabiao, the one with the highest position, quickly stood up and asked, "Did you tell the chief about the Organizational Department wanting to talk to him?"


    Ding Xiaoliu quickly nodded, "I did, I did."


    "The chief said he''ll go there right now."


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu, Cao Dabiao, who had been nervous all day, finally relaxed.


    And all the people in the office were jubilant.


    After all... after having been around Qiu Tu for so long, everyone knew that Qiu Tu was never someone who only cared about his own advancement and wealth.


    After Qiu Tu got promoted, he would definitely not forget them.


    And as for the Deputy Minister of the Political Department... that could be said to be a position of power ranking in the top 15, or even top 10, of the entire Investigation Bureau.


    To put it inappropriately, if Qiu Tu rose to grace, they could all ascend to heaven on his coattails...


    And of course, all of this was observed by Tan Huimin.


    As she watched everyone''s exuberant cheer, she felt incredibly alienated...


    She had been with the Investigation Bureau for a long time and witnessed quite a few promotions of superiors or colleagues.


    To be honest, she had never seen such genuinely happy reactions before¡ªmost were just happy on the surface, while secretly being sarcastic or displeased.


    ''These people... seem to really like and admire Qiu Tu?''


    Making a mental note, Tan Huimin became even more curious about what kind of person Qiu Tu was.


    She felt that even if she couldn''t get any useful information from Qiu Tu, as long as she could understand why his subordinates were so loyal and teach it to her own husband, a few days of discomfort would be worth it...


    Thinking this, she couldn''t help but look towards the door, anticipating her meeting with Qiu Tu...


    ...


    Meanwhile. While Tan Huimin was concocting her plan to learn from others, Qiu Tu had also arrived at the Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department.


    The one who received Qiu Tu was the Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department Minister, one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Bureau, Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin was a man in his forties with thinning hair.


    Qiu Tu had once heard Tang Feifei mention that Shi Youxin was an old colleague of Yan Chen back at the military academy.


    After Yan Chen rose to prominence, Shi Youxin resigned and went to work under him, having been one of Yan Chen''s key confidants ever since.


    He was known for his slickness, as slippery as non-stick rice cakes, and usually hung out with the Deputy Director of Administration from the same Eighth Sanctuary Officer School, Yu Zhengyi.


    The two of them, having teamed up, although not powerful, still held a certain amount of sway within Yan Chen''s faction.


    Facing Qiu Tu, Shi Youxin fully embodied an old slickster.


    He was neither overly warm nor unfriendly. Instead, he dealt with Qiu Tu in a manner that was both by-the-book and subtly accommodating.


    "Yan Chen ah... I didn''t expect we''d meet again so soon."


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Qiu Tu smiled humbly and replied, "That means I have a fate with Minister Shi."


    "It seems that in the future, we need to interact more often."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s smooth, flattering response, Shi Youxin "haha" laughed twice before replying, "Indeed, we should interact more." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''ve been wanting to have more conversations with you, but there just hasn''t been the chance."


    "Once this busy period is over, we must definitely exchange more."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also smiled and said, "No problem. When the time comes, we can go to Emerald Fort to watch horse races, sing, and have fun with facial cleansers together."


    Indeed, nothing closes the gap between two men faster than chatting about borderline topics. As soon as Youxin heard this, he could scarcely contain his smile, repeatedly saying, "Good, good, that''s great."


    After speaking, he picked up his thermos and took a sip.


    The thermos was filled with half a cup of goji berries, turning the water deep red.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu felt that the image of Shi Youxin in his heart became much more vivid: Here was a man dedicated to his life''s strength...


    Just after they exchanged a few casual words, Shi Youxin coughed lightly and started talking about the main topic.


    His expression gradually turned serious as he looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Chief Qiu, the reason I called you here is to inform you about an important personnel arrangement."


    Upon hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Qiu Tu sat up straight and responded respectfully, "Please tell me."


    Shi Youxin said, "After discussion by the Investigation Bureau''s senior meeting and approval by the Municipal Committee, we have decided to relieve you of your position as Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division in the Political Department, and to appoint you as Vice Minister of the Political Department."


    Even though he had known the outcome since yesterday, Qiu Tu''s heart still couldn''t help but pound when he heard Shi Youxin announce it!


    He nodded solemnly and then said, "I definitely will not let the leaders down and will assist in managing the Political Department well."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Shi Youxin nodded slightly before taking out documents and materials for Qiu Tu to fill out.


    Initially, Qiu Tu thought he had to fill out his archives, but when he received the documents, he realized they were all related to confirming his benefits.


    Like... an exclusive sedan, an exclusive villa, a small resting room on the 12th floor, and so on.


    The Organizational Department would start making preparations once Qiu Tu filled them out.


    Qiu Tu filled out the forms hastily and then handed them back to Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin skimmed through them briefly and then chuckled, saying, "Minister Qiu leads quite a simple life."


    On the forms, Qiu Tu had actually not written much, just putting down the word "Whatever" for some mandatory options.


    After all, he didn''t really pursue materialistic living that much.


    After completing the forms, Shi Youxin handed over the official appointment documents, credentials, and epaulets to Qiu Tu.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu took off his epaulets in front of him: changing from one bar and two stars to one bar and three stars.


    According to military ranks, Qiu Tu was now a Major, on par with Qin Shuman.


    And having received the appointment documents, credentials, and epaulets, Qiu Tu felt as if his body was undergoing some changes in the mysterious depths.


    But since Shi Youxin was still by his side, he temporarily couldn''t perceive or examine the changes.


    After handing over the documents, credentials, and epaulets, Shi Youxin also followed protocol and led Qiu Tu to the Political Department to meet the other two vice ministers.


    The other two vice ministers were named Cai and Zhang.


    Both were veterans of the Political Department and were confidants of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    According to Tang Feifei, both had also graduated from the Eighth Sanctuary Officer School and were deemed pure and loyal successors of Yan Chen''s lineage.


    Deputy Minister Cai was Qiu Tu''s "previous superior" and mainly in charge of the Action Division, making him one of the most powerful in the Political Department.


    Vice Minister Zhang, Qiu Tu''s "previous superior" too, was responsible for espionage and counter-espionage work.


    The other tasks such as interrogation, intelligence, and supervision were directly managed by Jia Shu himself.


    The portion of work Qiu Tu had his eye on was part of the remnants of what Jia Shu was responsible for...


    Hence, faced with two vice ministers who might become his superiors, Qiu Tu adopted a very humble posture, openly expressing his desire to learn from them.


    In comparison, the two senior vice ministers offered Qiu Tu a somewhat ambiguous reception.


    Perhaps influenced by Yan Chen and Jia Shu, they were somewhat distant and unaffectionate toward Qiu Tu.


    But when Qiu Tu took the initiative and offered to take responsibility for the "Intelligence" business, they did not object but remarked that they would discuss it in a meeting later.


    After meeting with his two colleagues, Shi Youxin returned to the Organizational Department. He then arranged for a young lady from the department to continue the procedural matters with Qiu Tu.


    Next, guided by the young lady, Qiu Tu visited his new private office on the 9th floor and the small resting room on the 12th floor.


    As a deputy division chief, although Qiu Tu couldn''t enjoy the type of 200 to 300 square-meter office and resting suites that Yan Chen and Tang Feifei had, his treatment was still not inferior.


    His office on the 9th floor was a small suite totaling over 100 square meters, with a secretary''s office at the very front, the office itself in the middle, followed by a bedroom further inside.


    It was convenient for Qiu Tu to rest directly in the office if he was tired from work.


    The small resting room on the 12th floor was even more extravagant, being a three-bedroom layout with a living room. The outer hall could be used for receiving guests, while the three bedrooms could be tailored into a home theater, a gym, and so on.


    Honestly, having lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu was enjoying such over-the-top perks for the first time.


    At that moment, all he wanted to say was... indeed there is a reason why so many people pursue promotions and wealth!


    After finishing showing Qiu Tu around the office and resting room, the young lady saluted and left.


    As she put it, she was going to continue selecting an exclusive villa and car for Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu didn''t try to keep her, not because the young lady wasn''t attractive, but because he was eager to examine the changes in his own body after the upgrade!


    --------

 Chapter 219 Pull One Faction Against Another (10,000 Words to Request Monthly Tickets)

    It was precisely because he understood Minister Cai''s personality that, before coming to the meeting, Qiu Tu had spent two minutes meticulously arranging his dress.He strove to ensure there was not a single wrinkle on his person, with every epaulette and pocket impeccably orderly.


    Therefore, when Minister Cai saw Qiu Tu entering, his gaze first critically swept up and down Qiu Tu''s figure twice.


    After not finding any detail he could take issue with, his head gave an almost imperceptible nod....


    Qiu Tu keenly captured Minister Cai''s subtle expression and chuckled silently to himself, knowing his first step was successful. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As early as yesterday, when he knew he had become the deputy head of the Political Department, Qiu Tu had already gotten a clear picture of his two rivals and colleagues from Liu Fuping.


    Even while getting Liu Fuping drunk to the point of collapse, Qiu Tu did not forget to ask for some intelligence.


    It could be said he was inputting "devotion" while also being devoted.


    After all, Qiu Tu knew that using pressure from the three major departments to become the deputy head must have shocked many onlookers yesterday.


    But precisely because of this defiant move against the internal tacit understanding of the Investigation Bureau, the conflict between him and Yan Chen had become more intense on the surface.


    Everyone knew that although he had become the deputy head, his situation at the Investigation Bureau and within the Political Department would become even more difficult.


    There were many people throughout the Bureau keeping an eye on him, watching this small meeting to see if he would be completely marginalized.


    So, on the way to send Liu Fuping off this morning, Qiu Tu also discussed with Liu Fuping for a long time about how to gain a foothold in the Political Department, and how to take over the Intelligence division from the two senior deputy heads.


    Fortunately, after a day and a night of contemplation, Qiu Tu had indeed thought of a way.


    Overall, given that Qiu Tu was disliked by Yan Chen and had managed to bring down Jia Shu, it was extremely difficult for him to obtain the important responsibility of Intelligence.


    After all, both Minister Cai and Minister Zhang had their preconceptions against Qiu Tu and would not support his work.


    So, if he wanted to achieve this goal, the best method was still the most commonly used by our ancestors: ally with one and fight against the other.


    Only by dividing the two deputy heads, making them enemies of each other, unable to suppress him together, could Qiu Tu possibly establish himself within the upper echelons of the Political Department and gain the Intelligence division he coveted.


    And the target he chose to court was clearly the former boss sitting before him, Deputy Minister Cai Peiyuan, who now managed the Political Department temporarily....


    Preparing his dress according to Cai Peiyuan''s preferences was the first step: gain favor....


    And next would be the second step....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu sat down to the right of Cai Peiyuan and casually remarked, "I didn''t expect to be the first to arrive with Minister Cai."


    Qiu Tu''s simple sentence carried implicit depth.


    If he and Cai Peiyuan had arrived first, then... didn''t that mean Minister Zhang was late?


    Thus, he inconspicuously formed a small alliance with Cai Peiyuan while subtly insinuating that Minister Zhang held a lack of respect for this meeting or for Cai Peiyuan.


    Sure enough, although Cai Peiyuan''s expression seemed unchanged, his eyebrows furrowed slightly.


    He did not engage with the conversation but instead proactively brought up the topic of the meeting, saying to Qiu Tu, "To be honest, it was quite unexpected for Minister Qiu to stand out from so many candidates and become the deputy head."


    "So, the purpose of this small meeting is firstly to congratulate Minister Qiu, and secondly to decide on Minister Qiu''s future division of work within the department."


    The words of Cai Peiyuan sounded right on the surface, yet they contained a hint of mockery.


    Qiu Tu understood the sentiment very well. After all, according to the intelligence he received last night, Cai Peiyuan was a confidant cultivated by Jia Shu himself, deeply loyal to him.


    Qiu Tu, the main culprit in bringing down Jia Shu, was naturally not to his liking.


    But.... again, in politics, there are neither permanent friends nor permanent enemies.


    As long as Qiu Tu could bring to Cai Peiyuan what he desired, he could become his friend.


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    With that thought, Qiu Tu gave a small smile and responded, "Then first, I would like to thank Minister Cai."


    "Speaking of division of work, I wonder what you think about my previous suggestion that I temporarily take charge of Supervision, Interrogation, and Intelligence?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cai Peiyuan let out a "hehe" and laughed.


    He picked up the teacup in front of him and took a sip, then beat around the bush, "This is something to discuss during the small meeting. Minister Qiu is a bit too eager."


    After finishing his tea, he placed the lid back on the teacup and set it down.


    Perhaps because it was slightly misaligned as he set it down, he subtly adjusted the teacup so the handle was perfectly facing him.


    Qiu Tu watched this scene with a faint smile and then subtly remarked, "Minister Cai is right. This should indeed wait until Minister Zhang arrives."


    "After all... it was reported to the Sanctuary that both you and Minister Zhang were being considered, who knows whether it will be you or him who becomes the head."


    "If we discuss at length and Minister Zhang disagrees, it would all be for naught."


    Qiu Tu''s words caused Cai Peiyuan to pause briefly in his movements. Then he fell silent for two seconds before he looked up and gazed deeply at Qiu Tu.


    He wasn''t taking the bait of this childish reverse psychology, but... understood that Qiu Tu was hinting at something: He and Minister Zhang still had a core conflict¡ªthe struggle for the ministerial position wasn''t resolved yet!


    This was the second step of Qiu Tu''s plan: to sow division between Deputy Ministers Cai and Zhang.


    With this in mind, Cai Peiyuan couldn''t help but ask with a smirk, "Does Minister Qiu have some opinions?"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted to the office door, then he held his teacup, speaking slowly and deliberately, "Of course."


    Once he noticed that Cai Peiyuan began to take his words seriously, he didn''t hold back any longer and said directly, "After Minister Jia''s incident, the Bureau Chief almost immediately named you to temporarily manage the operations of the Political Department."


    "Although it can''t be considered a direct appointment by the Bureau Chief, it is a very obvious political statement."


    "At that time, almost everyone in the Investigation Bureau took it for granted that you would be the future Head of the Political Department, the new high-level executive."


    "And even if you don''t end up becoming the Director of the Political Department, then it must be someone new parachuted in from the Sanctuary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s analysis, Cai Peiyuan nodded with a bit of pride¡ªbecause that was indeed the case.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued, "But who expected that at yesterday''s high-level meeting, Minister Zhang would suddenly emerge, with the support of three high-level executives to succeed as the Head of the Political Department."


    At this point, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, "I must say, this is not a good sign."


    Clearly, Cai Peiyuan was aware of this, but his expression remained unchanged, merely sipping water to conceal his feelings.


    Qiu Tu glanced at him and went on, "You probably know the final outcome of the meeting. Both you and Minister Zhang''s names were reported to the Sanctuary."


    "It''s up to the Sanctuary to decide whether you or he will take over as minister."


    At this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, "Although I''m not sure if you have any backup plans within the Sanctuary."


    "But at least on the surface, you and Minister Zhang are evenly matched."


    Cai Peiyuan, also an old hand in officialdom, remained inscrutable despite Qiu Tu''s spot-on analysis. He merely drank his tea with a deep, contemplative gaze.


    However, from the angle at which he drank his tea, his cup not at a 90-degree angle to his mouth, it seemed his heart was not as calm as he appeared.


    Qiu Tu felt a surge of confidence within. He was finally ready to proceed with the third step of his plan: to emphasize his own importance.


    He first paused for two seconds, giving Cai Peiyuan some time to rest and think, then slowly began to speak, "The Art of War says: A general should not worry about victory, but rather worry about the possibility of defeat. Therefore, they can be undefeated in a hundred battles."


    "If the Sanctuary decides in the end that you are to take over as the minister, then everything would obviously be perfect."


    "But if... the Sanctuary ultimately chooses Minister Zhang..."


    "Hehe..." Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, then said, "Minister Zhang should be a magnanimous man. He probably won''t mind you, the former acting head and his biggest competitor..."


    Cai Peiyuan: ....


    Qiu Tu knew it was time for the final push, so he spoke bluntly, "However, even if Minister Zhang is generous, after he becomes minister, he surely won''t leave all three major sectors¡ªAction, Interrogation, and Intelligence¡ªto you, will he?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes darkened as he looked at Cai Peiyuan, speaking softly, his voice like the whisper of a devil, "Minister Cai, guess... which sector might Minister Zhang take away?"


    "Is it Interrogation, which has some power? Or Intelligence, that''s both dirty and tiring?"


    "Or... the Action Division, which not only has great power and influence but is also vast in its military and leadership?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cai Peiyuan let out a deep sigh.


    Seeing his reaction, Qiu Tu lowered his head to drink his tea, then said softly, "Power that isn''t in hand is always ethereal."


    "Better to benefit a friend than an opponent."


    "This way, whether or not you become the minister in the end, you will have the most steadfast ally."


    "I have been promoted several times in rapid succession, so it''s impossible for me to compete with you."


    "But it''s different with Old Zhang..."


    "Even if you get promoted, he can still pull you down, then step up himself..."


    Toward the end, Qiu Tu''s voice grew fainter¡ªbecause he heard footsteps from outside.


    Sure enough, as he uttered the last word, Minister Zhang stepped into the meeting room.


    He glanced around the office, then nodded at Cai Peiyuan first, stating coldly, "Old Cai, you guys are pretty early."


    "Yes."


    Upon hearing Minister Zhang''s greeting, Cai Peiyuan revealed an exceedingly "sincere" smile,


    "We both... were just waiting for you."


    -------


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 Chapter 220 Meeting Results That Shocked the Entire Station (10,000 Words, Subscription Requested!)

    Minister Zhang, named Zhang Jian, was a man in his thirties, with a long face, a hawkish nose, a bit gaunt and gloomy in appearance.Perhaps due to his long-term work in espionage and counter-espionage, his expression was always cold, giving off an unapproachable vibe.


    And in fact, upon interacting with him... one would indeed find him very difficult to approach.


    Just like how Qiu Tu was clearly having an "enthusiastic" conversation with Cai Peiyuan, but the atmosphere turned chilly the moment Zhang Jian arrived.


    After greeting Cai Peiyuan, Zhang Jian nodded at Qiu Tu and then said, "Minister Xiao Qiu."


    Among the hierarchy of middle and senior officials in the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu was the youngest, just over twenty years old.


    So being called "Minister Xiao Qiu" was not really an exaggeration.


    However, generally speaking, such a term of address would be more appropriate coming from someone close to him or from a superior.


    For someone at the same level, like Zhang Jian, to call him that carried a hint of condescension.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t care.


    He wasn''t yet in a position to turn the situation to his advantage at will. So he just needed to cling to Cai Peiyuan and wait and see how things unfolded.


    Thus, he simply smiled and nodded back at Zhang Jian, then continued to lower his head and drink tea.


    He had already said all he could to Cai Peiyuan and had brainwashed him as much as possible; the rest was up to how much Cai Peiyuan was willing to take in.


    However, Qiu Tu was confident in his "brainwashing" abilities: after all¡­ what he had said was the truth, and he had sincerely analyzed the situation for Cai Peiyuan''s benefit.


    While he had "slightly" sought some personal gain, most of it was indeed a legitimate strategy.


    As long as Cai Peiyuan didn''t foolishly commit to Jia Shu and insist on opposing him, his plans for today were likely to succeed¡­


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Many within the Investigation Bureau were also paying close attention to this small meeting.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu had fought a beautifully victorious battle, emerging like a dark horse from among the candidates!


    He had already surprised everyone beyond belief.


    But this also made the Bureau''s staff fully aware of the "conflict" between him and Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen was the true king of the Investigation Bureau; offending him was tantamount to offending all the middle and senior officials of the Bureau.


    So, many were waiting to see the spectacle unfold for Qiu Tu.


    They wanted to see what Qiu Tu could do under such circumstances, whether he would become a Deputy Director in name only, completely marginalized by the other Deputy Directors¡­


    On the 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, in the office of the Deputy Director of Action.


    Lai Shun was there, drinking tea and signing documents.


    Just then, "knock, knock, knock," someone knocked on the door of his office.


    Without raising his head, Lai Shun called out, "Come in."


    Hearing Lai Shun''s voice, someone from the outside opened his office door.


    Lai Shun looked up and saw it was his secretary.


    As if he already knew what his secretary was there to report, he didn''t wait for the report and directly asked, "Old Zhang went in?"


    Lai Shun''s secretary walked up to the desk, stood with hands by his sides, and respectfully said, "Yes, Bureau Chief. Minister Zhang just entered the small meeting room."


    "Minister Cai''s secretary has now closed the door to the meeting room, they should have officially started the meeting."


    Upon hearing this, Lai Shun nodded and finally, instead of making a hasty judgment as before, he casually said, "Alright, I got it. Continue monitoring."


    "Yes!" Lai Shun''s secretary nodded in acknowledgment and then left the office.


    On the 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, in the office of the Deputy Director of Administration.


    Deputy Director of Administration, Yu Zhengyi, was chatting leisurely with the Head of the Organizational Department, Shi Youxin.


    Perhaps because they both had a background from the Military Officers'' Academy and had been teachers, Yu Zhengyi seemed to have a scholarly air about him.


    He had a square face, wore black-rimmed glasses, and his hair was graying, appearing more like a scholar than a politician.


    "Old Shi ah... what do you think of Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing his question, Shi Youxin replied with a chuckle, "Hard to say¡­ seems quite interesting."


    "But how much substance he has will depend on today''s little meeting."


    "However... I don''t really like him. I always feel he''s a bit too slick. He speaks more pleasantly than anyone else, but he keeps too many things hidden in his heart. Um¡­ more of a swindler than a politician."


    "Hehe¡­" Yu Zhengyi smiled as he adjusted his black-rimmed glasses and blew on the tea by his mouth, "A scene that was once stagnant suddenly has an interesting piece thrown in."


    "And with the establishment of Moonlight Lake and Dongye State, it feels... as if things are becoming more and more interesting."


    ....


    And at this time, while the entire Bureau was paying attention to this high-level meeting of the Political Department and most were not very optimistic about Qiu Tu''s prospects,


    inside the small meeting room, the meeting was unfolding in a one-sided manner.


    As soon as the meeting began, Cai Peiyuan started with some small talk, and then on behalf of the several ministers of the Political Department, he congratulated Qiu Tu on his new position.


    Right after that, Cai Peiyuan brought up the topic of Qiu Tu''s division of work.


    This topic clearly did not catch the attention of "the only villain" Zhang Jian.


    After all, it was known throughout the Investigation Bureau that Qiu Tu had not only brought down Jia Shu but also failed to win Yan Chen''s favor.


    And with most of the Political Department''s work, other than espionage and counter-espionage in Zhang Jian''s hands, all other tasks were with Cai Peiyuan.


    Therefore, Zhang Jian naturally assumed that as a staunch loyalist of both Jia Shu and Yan Chen and in control of the various divisions of work, Cai Peiyuan would definitely suppress Qiu Tu, only giving Qiu Tu a supervisory role.


    Thus, to help Cai Peiyuan, he even took over the topic and proposed, citing Qiu Tu''s lack of experience, to delegate only the "Supervisors" work to Qiu Tu.


    Unexpectedly, just as he finished speaking, he was met with opposition from Cai Peiyuan.


    At that moment, Cai Peiyuan coughed and said, "Old Zhang ah¡­ that''s not quite right."


    "Although Minister Qiu is young, it is precisely because he is young that he needs to be given more responsibilities. He needs to take on more for the department."


    "We old fellows can afford to be less committed!"


    Cai Peiyuan''s words had barely finished when Zhang Jian was stunned.


    He was a bit confused about what Cai Peiyuan was really thinking. But... since the power being divided wasn''t his, he simply stood by and quietly observed the changes.


    So... under his abdication, Cai Peiyuan handed over the responsibilities for supervision, interrogation, and intelligence, all three tasks, to Qiu Tu.


    Such an outcome not only left Zhang Jian a bit dazed but even Qiu Tu himself was somewhat bewildered.


    However, shortly after... Qiu Tu guessed what Cai Peiyuan was thinking.


    Cai Peiyuan''s thought process was simple: if he was to protect himself, he would do it thoroughly; if he was to win over Qiu Tu, then he would win him over completely!


    He couldn''t quite grasp Zhang Jian''s cards at hand nor was he sure who would become the Head of the Political Department.


    So, to avoid any real surprises, he conveniently handed over all his work to Qiu Tu.


    This had three benefits.


    1. He only retained the "Action Division" under his management. Even if Zhang Jian really became the head, he would have no way to target him.


    2. He had given so many subdivisions to Qiu Tu, who would surely feel grateful for his kindness, and stand firmly on his side.


    And if Zhang Jian became the head afterward, trying to reclaim power would require cutting through Qiu Tu. By then, even without existing conflicts, disputes would arise.


    This way, he could completely sit back and watch the tigers fight.


    3. And most importantly, if he had only given Qiu Tu the oversight of "intelligence" and "supervision", then when he became head, it would be hard to find an excuse to turn against Qiu Tu and take back power¡ªit would be reasonable for a Deputy Staff to hold two subdivisions.


    But now, by giving all three major subdivisions to Qiu Tu, it was obvious that Qiu Tu held too much power. Thus, when he rose to head, he would have a justified reason to reclaim power.


    Moreover, the reason Cai Peiyuan wasn''t afraid of giving so many subdivisions to Qiu Tu and then having Qiu Tu become too powerful to control was because he was still the acting head. Enjoy new chapters from My Virtual Library Empire


    All the deputy heads had to report to him and discuss matters with him. Add to that his experience and connections in the Political Department, he could sideline Qiu Tu at any time.


    It could be said that in just a few minutes, Cai Peiyuan not only took Qiu Tu''s "suggestions" to heart but also made a well-thought-out response...


    Qiu Tu saw through Cai Peiyuan''s intentions, but it was useless...


    This was an overt scheme.


    Such a huge benefit laid out before Qiu Tu, it would be foolish of him not to take it.


    So when Cai Peiyuan proposed this plan, Qiu Tu was the first one to raise his hand in approval.


    Zhang Jian, even though he thought there was something seriously wrong with Cai Peiyuan''s brain, didn''t see it affecting him, so he also raised his hand second to show his agreement.


    As for the proposer of the plan, Cai Peiyuan, there was no need to say. He definitely voted in favor.


    So... a meeting that the outside world expected to be fraught with fierce contention and verbal sparring ended in this strangely calm manner.


    At the end of the meeting, Zhang Jian looked at Cai Peiyuan several times as if he were looking at an idiot, then left the meeting room with a cold expression.


    After his departure, Qiu Tu smiled and extended his hand to Cai Peiyuan, "Thank you for your support, Minister Cai."


    After saying this, he added, "But rest assured Minister Cai. I know I''m only temporarily holding these responsibilities for you."


    "Whenever you want them back, you can take them at any time. I assure you I''ll have no complaints!"


    Qiu Tu''s words were extremely pleasing to the ear, but Cai Peiyuan didn''t believe a word of it...


    However, he still smiled warmly as he smoothed out the wrinkles on the shoulder of Qiu Tu''s uniform, then said some courteous words, "Minister Qiu jests. Since I''ve entrusted these tasks to you, it''s a sign of my trust."


    "Relax, just focus on doing a good job,"


    "In the future, we brothers should interact more, communicate more..."


    Qiu Tu smiled and agreed. Then he left the meeting room with Cai Peiyuan, both laughing and chatting...


    Soon, the results of the meeting spread rapidly throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    Whether it was Lai Shun, Yu Zhengyi, or Shi Youxin, they were all nearly shocked out of their wits upon learning of the outcome.


    And if these senior officials had such a reaction, then it''s needless to say how the other ordinary investigators felt.


    The Investigation Bureau''s common agents had all been waiting for Qiu Tu''s drama, eager to see how he would be sidelined.


    But astonishingly! The acting director was "sidelined"?


    And... he was willingly sidelined?


    Considering the three subdivisions that Qiu Tu now controlled, he could almost stand toe-to-toe with Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, being a truly influential deputy head.


    However, if memory serves correctly, Cai Peiyuan wasn''t previously familiar with Qiu Tu, and because he was a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, he was supposed to be at odds with Qiu Tu, right?


    Yet... he was taken down by Qiu Tu just like that?


    What sort of charm does Qiu Tu have, or what special ability does he possess to brainwash a deputy head to such an extent?


    When considering the path Qiu Tu had walked, the individuals he had betrayed yet who had promoted him: Secretary Bai, Yan Chen, Jia Shu...


    And now, Cai Peiyuan dared to trust him?


    For a moment, everyone was a bit astonished: Was Qiu Tu the Lu Bu of the Political Department or the... Succubus of the Investigation Bureau?


    Of course, while the entire bureau was shocked by Qiu Tu''s mind-control skills and doubting him.


    At this time, on the second floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    The temporary office of the 8.19 Pharmacy investigation team had become a sea of joy


    As subordinates who had fought alongside Qiu Tu, they were the happiest now that Qiu Tu had truly gained power.


    Because this meant their good days were coming!


    Above all, the most excited among them was undoubtedly Cao Dabiao.


    He had previously been promoted to deputy staff by Qiu Tu but had not been assigned any work till now.


    Now that Qiu Tu had so many subdivisions in his grasp, he could easily carve out a position for him even if it meant squeezing one out forcefully.


    Other subordinates, such as Song Qing, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, were more or less the same.


    The higher the rank and authority of the chief they followed, the better their lives would be, and the wider their channels for advancement. So they were also shouting and celebrating excitedly. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And the one who seemed completely out of place with the liveliness of the whole office was probably... Tan Huimin, the outsider.


    -----------

 Chapter 221 First Contact with Tan Huimin (10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As a spy sent by her own husband.Tan Huimin actually found it a bit hard to empathize with Song Qing, Ding Xiaoliu, and the others.


    After all... she had never met Qiu Tu before. Qiu Tu''s promotion had no benefit for her whatsoever.


    So, she could only sit dumbly by the door, watching everyone cheer.


    It was then that the office door was gently opened.


    Upon hearing the sound, Tan Huimin looked up and then saw a very handsome young man stepping into the office.


    The youth was dressed in a black Political Department uniform, which, fitting perfectly on his figure, bestowed him with an impressive and upright appearance.


    Both men and women tend to have an extra filter for attractive members of the opposite sex; Tan Huimin was no exception.


    With just one glance, she felt that the young man in front of her... did not look like a bad person.


    But since she couldn''t see the young man''s epaulet, she also couldn''t figure out his identity.


    At this time, the young man had obviously noticed Tan Huimin as well.


    He smiled at Tan Huimin, then quietly closed the office door, and asked, "How long have they been making noise?"


    The young man had a pleasant voice, and Tan Huimin softly replied, "Two or three minutes."


    After speaking, she involuntarily added, "Their boss got a promotion. They''re celebrating."


    Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, the young man smiled, then gently closed the door and asked, "By the way, I haven''t asked¡ªwho are you?"


    After hearing the young man''s words, Tan Huimin gathered her hair and said with downcast eyes, "My name is Tan Huimin, a Second-Class Investigator from the Administrative Office."


    "Now I am their boss''s secretary."


    "Their boss''s secretary?" The young man seemed a bit surprised when he heard this.


    He sized up Tan Huimin and then inquired, "Is the Administrative Office so efficient?"


    "I remember... their boss just got promoted this afternoon, and the secretary has already been assigned tonight?"


    Hearing the young man''s words, Tan Huimin felt embarrassed.


    She definitely couldn''t talk about the bet her husband made with Qiu Tu.


    That would not only embarrass her husband but also... make her seem especially cheap.


    So, she could only silently nod her head.


    Seeing this, the young man didn''t think too much about it. He patted Tan Huimin on the shoulder and said, "Well then, from now on, we are all one of us."


    "Don''t worry, if you work well with me, promotions and salary increases won''t be a problem."


    "If you encounter any difficulties, you can also talk directly to me. Anything I can solve, I will help you with."


    Hearing the young man''s reassurance, Tan Huimin smiled awkwardly and thanked him, "Thank you."


    After thanking him, Tan Huimin hesitated a bit, then suddenly realized the implication of "work well with me, promotions, and salary increases won''t be a problem."


    She was suddenly taken aback, and then looked at the handsome young man in surprise.


    By that time, the handsome young man had already stepped into the office and was being surrounded by the crowd, receiving their congratulations.


    Tan Huimin involuntarily stood up, and then looked at the handsome young man''s shoulder rank insignia, which clearly had a bar and three flowers embroidered on it.


    ''Is that Qiu Tu?!''


    Now that she had finally recognized Qiu Tu, Tan Huimin felt almost blank in her mind for a moment.


    Possibly because she had often heard her husband mention Qiu Tu, talk about Qiu Tu''s swift promotions, the conspiracies, treacheries...


    In Tan Huimin''s mind, Qiu Tu should have been nearly thirty, skinny, cold-looking, and might even have a hooked nose.


    However... when she actually met Qiu Tu, she found he was completely different from what she imagined.


    Could such a sunny, handsome man really be a scheming villain?


    Possibly because of her prejudiced impression earlier on, for a moment, Tan Huimin felt almost unable to accept it.


    It took her several seconds to collect herself, continuously reminding herself in her mind, "Appearances can be deceiving," "Appearances can be deceiving," before she managed to pull her emotions back together.


    By this time, Qiu Tu had already received rounds of congratulations from his subordinates.


    He was also not modest with his own people, not only accepting all the congratulations but also directly told all his subordinates, "The workday is over already, so I won''t bother the Organizational Department and other sections."


    "Tomorrow as soon as work starts, I will help everyone adjust their positions."


    "By then, you all need to shine and heat up in your new posts."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s promise, the spirits of the investigators present soared even higher.


    After all, besides Qiu Tu''s personal charisma, they followed him for promotions and wealth, didn''t they?


    And on this count, Qiu Tu never let everyone down...


    Tan Hui Min watched the scene before her, feeling an utter sense of unfamiliarity.


    The fervent atmosphere, the genuine adulation from the subordinates, she seemed to have never witnessed such a thing in her husband''s department¡ªor even in the Administrative Office.


    Whether at the Public Security Bureau or the Administrative Office, or even before where her husband was at the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, it seemed as if everyone was playing it cool, engaging in cutthroat competition.


    Even if there were indeed friends with a good relationship, they would be two or three people lurking in a corner, whispering secretively, rather than like now where everyone appeared to be "family"...


    ''Right, just like a family...'' With this realization, Tan Hui Min became even more astonished by the scene before her.


    She couldn''t help but turn her gaze to Qiu Tu, who was surrounded by people in the center.


    ''This young man, what kind of charm does he possess that he can make so many subordinates dedicatedly loyal, treating him as they would their own family?''


    While Tan Hui Min was thinking this, Qiu Tu also turned his attention to her.


    Qiu Tu called out, "Oh, what''s your name?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tan Hui Min snapped back to reality and quickly replied, "My name is Tan Hui Min."


    Qiu Tu gave a slight nod then smiled and said to everyone, "Alright, if there''s nothing else, you all should go off work and get some rest."


    "As for me, I''ll stay a bit longer to work overtime. I need to sort out the situation across several departments."


    "After I finish organizing things tonight, I''ll write down what arrangements I have for you all. I''ll give it to Miss Tan."


    "Tomorrow, Miss Tan will take you to handle the formalities."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the subordinates cheered once more.


    In this way, after a noisy celebration for a while longer, the subordinates gradually left the office one by one.


    Unexpectedly, Little Liu, the epitome of efficiency at leaving work, turned out to be the last one to leave.


    She dawdled until everyone else was gone, leaving only Qiu Tu and Tan Hui Min in the office.


    Only then did she tiptoe over to Qiu Tu and said somewhat hesitantly, "Boss... can I ask you for a favor?"


    Hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu, who was packing up documents planning to take them back to his own office, couldn''t help but glance at her, then he asked, "What is it?" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Song Qing whispered, "My father wants to meet you this weekend."


    Hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu, puzzled, looked up at her.


    Song Qing hurriedly explained, "Boss, don''t get the wrong idea."


    "My father just found out that you saved me and simply wants to thank you in person."


    What Song Qing referred to as "saving her" meant she was nearly tricked by Wang Xi, almost leading both her and her circle of close friends into Wang Xi''s evil clutches.


    It was Qiu Tu who had realized something was amiss and then informed her of Wang Xi''s true identity, warning her not to go out, not to meet with Wang Xi alone, and assigning her to keep an eye on Wang Xi at the bureau. (Chapter 162)


    However... this clearly was just an excuse from Song Qing''s father.


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t mistaken, the real reason her father wanted to see him was probably the power that came with his new position, ranking him among the top 40 in Xinjie City!


    Unfortunately, Qiu Tu had no interest in such meaningless social engagements right now.


    His current focus was still on the information regarding Moonlight Lake and Larilo. At most... plus the establishment of Dongye State. Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    So, thinking this, he simply declined, "I''ve received your gratitude, but no need for dinner. I..."


    He''d originally thought to find some random excuse to brush it off, but who would''ve known that as soon as Song Qing heard Qiu Tu''s refusal, she exclaimed with excitement "Yay!" and then said, "Boss, you can''t go back on your word!"


    "You agreed not to go!"


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu looked at Song Qing, a question mark over his head, then tentatively asked, "So... the favor you were asking for was actually to reject your father?"


    Song Qing sheepishly stuck out her tongue and then said, "Yeah, he''s so annoying. He obviously wants to butter you up because you''ve been promoted! I rejected him several times, but he insisted I ask, which was so irritating!"


    After saying that, Song Qing blew a kiss at Qiu Tu, "Thanks, Boss! I knew you were the best! Thank you for turning him down~"


    With that, she picked up her bag and bounced off to leave work.


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "Pffft." At this moment, Tan Hui Min, who had witnessed the entire exchange, could no longer hold back and inadvertently laughed out loud.


    She felt that this boss and subordinate pair were really interesting. The boss didn''t act like a boss, the subordinate didn''t act like a subordinate.


    She had never encountered such an interaction pattern in the strictly hierarchical Investigation Bureau.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, hearing Tan Hui Min''s laughter, also snapped back to the moment.


    He glanced at Tan Hui Min, his gaze shifting slightly, then suddenly spoke up, "Miss Tan, if I''m not mistaken, you''re not my secretary, are you? Who exactly are you?"


    -----------


    3 chapters, 10,000 words, ha. Chapters 3 will be updated from 23-24 o''clock. Requesting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 222 Qiu Tu: Youre Mrs. Zheng Tao, Right? (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, who just had a smile on her face, suddenly changed her expression and couldn''t smile anymore.Actually, she didn''t mean to deceive Qiu Tu just now. She just didn''t recognize him and mistook him for a regular agent.


    And explaining too much about her own identity would be awfully embarrassing. So when Qiu Tu asked, she casually said she was his secretary.


    She hadn''t thought much of it before. Now, when Qiu Tu brought it up proactively, she suddenly realized that her previous introduction was improper¡ªthere was a suspicion of impersonating an identity.


    Therefore, she quickly opened her mouth, ready to explain.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu raised his hand to interrupt her, "Let me guess..."


    Qiu Tu stood up, walked over to Tan Huimin, then cupped his chin, circled around her, and appraised her from head to toe.


    It must be said, Tan Huimin was a very charming woman. Perhaps she was of a ripe age. Her figure was voluptuous, with curves in all the right places.


    Although her waist wasn''t as slender as Liu Fuping''s, the slightly plump figure added a different kind of charm to her.


    Having lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu had experienced all types of women, so he knew that it was this kind of slightly fleshy woman who was the most comfortable in certain aspects.


    She was indeed a perfect artillery mount.


    And after appraising her for a moment, Qiu Tu slowly opened his mouth, "If I''m not mistaken, you should be Zheng Tao''s secretary, right?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin breathed a sigh of relief and quickly nodded, "Yes."


    She bowed slightly towards Qiu Tu, then said, "Deputy Director Zheng said you''ve just been promoted to deputy division chief, and it''s the busiest time for your work, you need a secretary to assist by your side."


    "So, he asked me to fill in until your secretary is in place."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu laughed twice and then said bluntly, "Is that what Director Zheng told you?"


    "He really is flattering himself then."


    Qiu Tu''s smile faded, and he said candidly, "Director Zheng didn''t send you over to help me for my own good."


    "It''s because he lost a bet to me, so he gave you to me as his loss."


    Overwhelmed by Qiu Tu''s blunt words, Tan Huimin felt quite embarrassed.


    She endured the humiliation and forced a smile, saying, "Is.... Is that so?"


    Seeing her react this way, Qiu Tu looked at her intently, then said, "Well, since you''re here, I''ll treat you as one of us."


    "Take the documents that are organized on the table and come with me to the new office."


    Sensing that Qiu Tu had finally dropped the topic, Tan Huimin finally let out a sigh of relief. She saluted him quickly, "Yes, sir."


    After saying that, she hurried to Qiu Tu''s desk with her plump and shapely legs.


    Picking up the file box Qiu Tu had organized, Tan Huimin followed him out of the temporary office.


    Walking toward the elevator, Qiu Tu received countless sycophantic smiles and respectful salutes along the way.


    No matter by what means Qiu Tu had done it, he was now the deputy division chief of the Political Department, and moreover, one with real power over three major areas of business.


    Qiu Tu had become a personage indeed, an existence that all the lower-level agents, and even most section chiefs and division chiefs, would look up to and try to curry favor with.


    Even the elevator ride had begun to afford Qiu Tu the privilege of one person per elevator: upon seeing him and Tan Huimin enter the elevator, the agents who had been there hurried out, giving Qiu Tu a salute.


    Qiu Tu, for his part, didn''t stand on ceremony, smiled and nodded his head, then watched as the elevator doors closed and started to ascend slowly.


    Tan Huimin had witnessed everyone''s attitude towards Qiu Tu from start to finish. To tell the truth, she was a bit surprised.


    The Public Security Bureau and the Political Department were at the same level, and a deputy division chief was at the same level as a deputy department chief, but she had never seen her husband receive such treatment.


    And as she thought this. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu, looking at the slowly ascending elevator and with an expressionless face, began to speak, "The Political Department is different from other departments."


    "It supervises the three big institutions and all the major departments. Spying, counter-spying."


    "Arrest first then interrogate, torture to extract confessions."


    "Some operations that are illegal in other departments are legal in the Political Department."


    "Such authority and deterrence cannot be compared to ordinary departments like the Public Security Bureau, which merely suppresses the common people."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin was startled at first, and then she understood that Qiu Tu was addressing her doubts.


    She couldn''t help but look up at Qiu Tu in surprise, as if asking, how do you know what I''m thinking?


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu looked down at her and pointed at his handsome face, "Everything you''re thinking is written all over your face."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu faced the elevator doors again, adding softly, "You''re not cut out for spying. Mrs. Zheng....."


    "Snap!"


    Qiu Tu''s words were light, but to Tan Huimin, they sounded like thunderclaps in her ears!


    Tan Huimin''s body shook, and her hands involuntarily loosened, resulting in Qiu Tu''s box of documents scattering all over the floor. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tan Huimin panicked and knelt down at Qiu Tu''s feet, then began to pick up the documents from below his legs.


    Qiu Tu looked down at the beautiful young woman beneath him, stepped aside, and said, "Don''t be nervous. I''m not some man-eating beast."


    While he spoke, the elevator arrived at the 9th floor and slowly opened.


    There were quite a few agents waiting for the elevator outside.


    They saw Qiu Tu standing, Tan Huimin kneeling, and the documents scattered across the floor, and were utterly confused about what had happened.


    But they all recognized Qiu Tu, so they quickly saluted and stepped aside.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu coldly dropped a sentence, "Pick them up and bring them to my office."


    After saying that, he strode away with his athletic gait, leaving the elevator with the sound of his boots.


    Tan Huimin was left alone in the empty elevator, under the watchful eyes of countless agents, her face a burning red and her eyes brimming with tears as she picked up the documents.


    However, once he left the elevator entrance and walked alone down the corridor, Qiu Tu''s expressionless face collapsed.


    His brows furrowed deeply, his face filled with shock and disbelief.


    ''That woman is actually Zheng Tao''s wife?!''


    ''Has Zheng Tao gone mad?!''


    ''He actually secretly made his own wife be his secretary, and after losing a bet, he really sent her to me?''


    ''Doesn''t he fear I might devour his wife?''


    Qiu Tu did not think of himself as a paragon of virtue in Zheng Tao''s eyes.


    In times of chaos, which powerful man doesn''t partake in the flesh presented to him? Especially when it''s handed to him on a platter!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but speculate on Zheng Tao''s motives.


    ''After losing the bet, he couldn''t swallow his pride? Thinking it''s just for two days, I wouldn''t make a move, so he took a gamble?''


    ''He wants to set me up, using his own wife to tempt me, to make me slip up, and then take me down?''


    ''A modern-day honeytrap?''


    ''It surely can''t be that he was coerced to send his wife to me, right?''


    Question after question surfaced in Qiu Tu''s mind, shrouding Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin under layers of dense fog.


    Qiu Tu felt it would be best to investigate Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin to find out what this couple was up to before making a long-term plan.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of that big shot with the dubious relationship with Jia Shu: Huang Shangzong;


    He thought of the Heretic Goddess Girl who had always been preoccupied with him: Larilo;


    He thought of the Evil God Cultist lurking in the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau;


    He thought of Moonlight Lake, which was about to emerge, drawing the attention of various forces.


    Qiu Tu felt... it was essential to meet with Qin Shuman and have a "deep" conversation to see if they could work together.


    In the past, Qiu Tu was just a lowly agent or a division chief with a title but no real power, with no grounds for cooperation with the Security Department or Qin Shuman.


    But now, he was entirely different.


    As the Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department, even when standing in front of the Security Department Director Dai Yukang, Dai had to treat him with caution.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took out the specially made communicator from the Security Department and sent a brief message to Qin Shuman.


    The content of the message was simple, just one line: Tonight at 10, the usual place. Have a proposition for you.


    Qin Shuman did not reply immediately.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu entered his own private office that Qin Shuman finally responded with a single word: Okay.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile.


    He felt that tonight would be quite enjoyable...


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was contemplating, the sound of Tan Huimin''s high heels, "click... click..." approached from outside his office.


    Shortly after, Tan Huimin indeed came in holding the box of documents.


    Perhaps because she had time to compose herself, her composure had returned, and she even found the courage to look Qiu Tu in the eye.


    First, she placed the box of documents on Qiu Tu''s desk and then stood prettily in front of him, asking, "Chief, how... did you know who I am?"


    -----


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters, haha. Continuing with 10,000 per day tomorrow! Seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 224 The Devil that Plays with Peoples Hearts (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu keenly sensed Tan Hui Min''s state of collapse, and with a gentle lead, sure enough, Tan Hui Min''s whole body trembled as he embraced her into his arms.Qiu Tu cradled her and gently patted Tan Hui Min''s back, soothing her, "Madam, there''s no need to be afraid."


    "As long as you listen to me."


    "I won''t hurt you, nor will I hurt your husband."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min, with red-rimmed eyes, raised her head and asked, "Really... really?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded his head.


    Then he let go of Tan Hui Min and walked back to his office desk before saying, "I honestly don''t wish to be an enemy of Director Zheng either."


    "In the political arena, ha, it''s certainly better to have more friends than enemies."


    "Don''t you think so, Madam?"


    Even though she felt that Qiu Tu was deceiving her, now... Tan Hui Min really had no other choice.


    So, she could only meekly nod her head in agreement.


    Seeing that he had finally subdued this woman, Qiu Tu was not in a hurry to continue brainwashing her; he knew well the principle of moderation in all things.


    So he gestured towards the inside resting room, "Alright, since we''ve reached a preliminary collaboration. For now, continue to be my secretary, Madam."


    "First, help me clean up the office."


    Housework was indeed something Tan Hui Min was good at, so upon hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangement, she quickly and obediently agreed, heading into the resting room to tidy up for Qiu Tu.


    Once Tan Hui Min had left, however, Qiu Tu reached for the tape recorder on the bookshelf.


    He opened the slot of the tape recorder, which only contained one "untouched" tape.


    Qiu Tu, expressionless, took out the blank tape and, with a pen, wrote "Tan Hui Min" in large characters on it.


    Then he opened the drawer and tossed the tape inside.


    He wasn''t Zhuge Liang, nor did he possess such ingenious foresight to predict that Tan Hui Min would truly confess, so of course, he couldn''t have possibly pressed the record button in advance.


    But... no matter. As soon as he wrote those three characters down, the tape existed in this world!


    After cleaning the entire office, Tan Hui Min''s mood had also visibly stabilized.


    Continue reading stories on My Virtual Library Empire sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t keep her any longer but gave her a phone number before letting her leave to go home.


    Tan Hui Min dared not show any rebellious behavior towards Qiu Tu, so she obediently left the office.


    After Tan Hui Min was gone, Qiu Tu also briefly tidied up the documents and then stood up to leave the office, ready for his rendezvous with Qin Shuman tonight.


    However... just about ten minutes after he left,


    suddenly, the lock on his office door began to turn ever so slightly.


    Soon after, with a "click," the door to Qiu Tu''s office was opened from the outside.


    Tan Hui Min, with keys in hand, entered stealthily from the outside.


    She switched on the light, and walked straight to the tape recorder on the bookshelf.


    Carefully, she took down the tape recorder, opened the slot; it was completely empty.


    Tan Hui Min couldn''t help but bite her lip lightly.


    She looked around and eventually had no choice but to bend down and start examining the drawers one by one.


    Soon, she opened the drawer on the far left, one used to store tapes.


    Seeing the tape with her name lying quietly there, Tan Hui Min''s eyes lit up, and she quickly took the tape into her hands, beginning to restore the scene.


    However, just as she was halfway through restoring it, suddenly, her Communicator began to ring "ring ring ring."


    Tan Hui Min jumped in surprise and almost threw the incriminating tape out in her guilty panic.


    Fortunately, at the critical moment, she managed to control her emotions.


    She carefully placed the tape on the desk, then reached for her Communicator to check.


    Upon seeing it, her expression turned drastically.


    Because... the caller ID on the Communicator clearly read "Qiu Tu"!


    Tan Hui Min was startled, hesitant to answer, but remembering the terror of Qiu Tu, she ultimately picked up tremblingly.


    As soon as she answered the call, something even more frightening happened.


    Qiu Tu said, "Madam Zheng... you disappoint me greatly."


    "I didn''t expect you to return to steal the evidence."


    "But you underestimated the vigilance of a Deputy Director of the Political Department."


    "All your actions have been recorded by hidden cameras. And the tape you got... is also a blank tape I had strategically arranged."


    "You had best watch out for yourself."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    At that moment, Tan Huimin, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words and listening to the "du...du..." tone on the phone, was completely dumbfounded.


    She stood still with her mobile phone for a good two seconds before, as if suddenly coming to her senses, she quickly put the tape labeled with her name into the tape recorder and pressed the [Play] button.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t recorded his conversation with Tan Huimin, so... of course, there was no sound on the tape.


    Tan Huimin certainly wouldn''t believe that this was the actual tape. She naturally assumed that the "real tape" had been taken by Qiu Tu, and this one was deliberately left behind to mock her...


    Therefore, after listening to the tape, Tan Huimin completely broke down.


    She felt that Qiu Tu was like a devil playing with people''s hearts, and she was almost broken by him.


    Since Qiu Tu had discovered her identity, one trap after another had left her like a marionette, being led step by step into the abyss.


    Now she had been recorded and videotaped by Qiu Tu. Her identity as a spy was completely confirmed.


    Whether it was she or her husband, they were now entirely in Qiu Tu''s hands. Their future, their lives, all were at the mercy of Qiu Tu''s thoughts...


    She... had never felt so alone and helpless.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was driving, shaking his head as he retracted his ability.


    He had only equipped the tape recorder today; how could he possibly have surveillance or recording devices in his office?


    He had guessed that Tan Huimin would likely come back to take a gamble, so he placed the [Special Communicator] in a hidden corner of the bookshelf.


    He then activated his advanced Cataclysmic ability "Order Space," setting a condition.


    "When the tape is moved, the communicator will automatically dial the first number¡ª which is the number for the communicator provided by Qiu Tu''s Investigation Bureau."


    Therefore, Qiu Tu was able to know immediately when Tan Huimin sneaked into his room and prepared to steal the tape...


    The only difficulty with this rule was the "cost" of waiting for an extended period.


    Fortunately, after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu could reduce and control the scope of "Order Space."


    This significantly reduced the consumption of his spiritual power.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shook his head and, feeling almost no discomfort, continued to drive toward the Milan Grand Hotel.


    Upon arriving at the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu had just walked into the lobby when a waiter came forward and handed him a room card.


    This was the usual procedure, so Qiu Tu adeptly took the room card, took the elevator, and went upstairs.


    This time, the room number Qin Shuman left for Qiu Tu was: 618.


    But after getting to the sixth floor, Qiu Tu became alert.


    He thought about the two meetings with Qin Shuman in the hotel.


    One time he was pulled into a strange room by Qin Shuman, and another time he was "stabbed" by her with a knife.


    Anyway... that woman always had some special flavor to the encounter.


    So Qiu Tu was also curious about what she would come up with this time.


    But maybe Qiu Tu was overthinking it because nothing happened as he made his way to room 618''s door.


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then took out the room card and placed it against the door lock.


    "Beep" "click..."


    Accompanied by the sound of the door lock working, the door slowly opened.


    Qiu Tu pushed the door and entered, then saw Qin Shuman lying on the bed, sound asleep...


    She seemed indeed a bit tired lately, not just the deep fatigue on her beautiful face, but even without taking off her clothes, she slept fully clothed.


    Not sure if it was the noise of Qiu Tu entering that disturbed her, or the innate vigilance of a spy''s body, her thick and long eyelashes trembled slightly, as if she would wake at any moment...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t dare to move. He just stood there until he felt Qin Shuman''s breathing become steady again. Then he quietly closed the door and walked in.


    Approaching Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu found several documents on the bedside table.


    They were records of Old Master Qin''s interrogation, investigative materials on the Evil God Girl Lara, basic information on Jia Shu''s backer and the future Speaker of Dongye State Council Huang Shangzong...


    And... the information on Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin he had asked for on the phone with Qin Shuman on the way here.


    During his encounter with Tan Huimin tonight, Qiu Tu had actually discovered a crucial clue from her various statements and behaviors.


    That was, Tan Huimin did not seem to come from the Sanctuary like Zheng Tao. Instead, she seemed to be an ordinary person born and raised in Xinjie City.


    Their relationship and marriage suddenly became quite intriguing...


    --------


    Chapter three, 10,000 words ha. Chapter three will update between 23:00 and 24:00. Soliciting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 225 Discovering the Secret of Zheng Tao and His Wife (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    After all, today Qiu Tu had probed Tan Huimin for hours.The relationship between Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao was clearly very deep.


    But... normally, relationships require cultivation over time. Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin, one living in the Sanctuary, the other previously in the "Disaster Zone," theoretically, should not be able to have such profound interactions.


    If Tan Huimin became Zheng Tao''s girlfriend only after he moved to Xinjie City, eventually marrying her, then their current pattern of interaction seems somewhat inconsistent.


    Tan Huimin obviously regards herself as Zheng Tao''s wife, and Zheng Tao also treats her as his own, trusting her immensely.


    ¡ªThis could be seen from Zheng Tao arranging for her to spy on Qiu Tu.


    After all, Qiu Tu is younger, more handsome, holds a higher position, and has a broader future as a high-level member of the Investigation Bureau.


    If she were just an ordinary girlfriend, with scant emotional attachment, and one who had not even experienced marriage, how could Zheng Tao entrust her with such a sensitive task?


    Therefore, having deduced that Tan Huimin was from Xinjie City, Qiu Tu immediately sensed something amiss.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced again at Qin Shuman, who was still sound asleep.


    Tonight, Qin Shuman was using the body of Yan Chen''s mistress; judging by her current state, she must have been too busy for her original self to come.


    The genes derived from Yan Chen''s wife made this body somewhat resemble Yan Chen''s daughter, Yanyan.


    Only, perhaps, because one was mature and the other was not.


    Thus, Qin Shuman appeared even more glamorous and captivating, unable to hide her radiance even in sleep.


    Yanyan, on the other hand, looked very pure and innocent. Coupled with her young age and gentle character, she had the vibe of the girl next door, a middle school beauty.


    ''White moonlight and red rose?''


    Qiu Tu made a silent assessment in his heart before withdrawing his gaze. He then picked up the files of Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao from the bedside table, prepared to review them while Qin Shuman was asleep.


    As the intelligence officer of the Security Department, Qin Shuman''s information was very comprehensive.


    Even just for the Deputy Division Chief and his wife, the files were incredibly detailed.


    Holding the files, Qiu Tu walked over to the sofa in the room, sat down, found a comfortable position, and then seriously read through both sets of documents.


    After finishing, his brows involuntarily furrowed.


    He first closed the files, pondered for a moment, and then reopened them to review the strange details he had noticed before.


    Eventually, he sat silently on the sofa with the files, deep in thought...


    It was not beyond his expectations. Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin did not meet after the establishment of Xinjie City, but rather... their acquaintance dated back several years.


    Before Xinjie City became a Planning Area, the Sanctuary needed to sweep clean the various anti-government armed forces, criminal syndicates, and gangs occupying Xinjie City in advance.


    So, they dispatched the then Colonel Ye, now General Ye to station in Xinjie City, clarify the power distribution, and clean out the anti-government armed forces, criminal syndicates, and gangs. Explore new worlds at My Virtual Library Empire


    During this period, the City Hall and the Investigation Bureau both sent people to participate in the operation.


    For example, future Deputy Directors Lai Shun and Yu Zhengyi, or future high-ranking officials such as Shi Youxin and Secretary Bai.


    It was in this bloody purge that Secretary Bai was injured, nearly died, and was ultimately saved by Qiu Tu. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That led to Qiu Tu later being recruited by Secretary Bai into the Investigation Bureau, being introduced to Yan Chen, and then to sleeping with Qin Shuman among a series of other events.


    Besides these future high-ranking officials of Xinjie City, the Investigation Bureau also brought over forty core members to assess the situation in Xinjie City.


    Among them... was Zheng Tao.


    At that time, Tan Huimin was the only daughter of a small merchant family in Xinjie City, beautiful and well-provided for. Though not extravagantly rich, she was certainly better off than the average household.


    She was somewhat similar to the present-day Song Qing or Su Xiaowan.


    However, although her father was not a criminal, he was reliant on an underground gang.


    This made them fall into a category that could be "cleansed" or spared.


    And Zheng Tao was charged with assessing the underground gang and its surrounding forces.


    It was during this period that Zheng Tao is suspected to have become acquainted with Tan Huimin.


    The files do not clearly state the exact situation at the time, just that after Zheng Tao''s evaluation, 90% of those forces associated with the underground syndicate needed to be purged.


    Tan Huimin''s family was among the remaining 10% that could be preserved.


    What followed was a 15-day-long bloody purge.


    During this time, many things happened. All the anti-government armed forces, criminal gangs, and their surrounding powers were annihilated.


    The old order crumbled, and a new order was under construction. The entire Xinjie City was filled with turmoil and chaos.


    Afterward, everything gradually calmed down. Tan Hui Min and her family successfully survived the major crisis.


    Just when Zheng Tao and Tan Hui Min thought it was all behind them, one day, suddenly, remnants of a gang arrived at Tan Hui Min''s home and carried out a massacre.


    Aside from Tan Hui Min, who happened to be out on a date with Zheng Tao, over ten members of Tan Hui Min''s family were slaughtered, none spared.


    There were no detailed records in the information available about the inner journey of Tan Hui Min and Zheng Tao, nor their reactions.


    It was summarized in a very brief sentence, "Two months later, Zheng Tao brought Tan Hui Min back to the Sanctuary under the guise of being relatives."


    In the Sanctuary, the two registered their marriage, and Tan Hui Min acquired residence status in the Sanctuary as Zheng Tao''s wife.


    Subsequently, Zheng Tao returned to Xinjie City in his capacity as a member of the Investigation Bureau Political Department''s Interrogation Section.


    And Tan Hui Min followed Zheng Tao back to Xinjie City.


    Strangely enough, Zheng Tao didn''t use official channels to bring Tan Hui Min back to Xinjie City; instead, he made her return to Xinjie City in secrecy.


    And using Tan Hui Min''s former identity in Xinjie City, during the census and entry of resident information at City Hall, she was given the identity of a resident in a Planning Area.


    After that, Zheng Tao secured Tan Hui Min''s selection into the Investigation Bureau through his connections and arranged for her to be placed in the Administrative Office.


    There were no further records available after this. It''s presumed that it''s because Tan Hui Min became Zheng Tao''s secretary for such a short period of time, the Security Department had not yet had the chance to update the information.


    However, the information available was already sufficient for Qiu Tu to detect many suspicions.


    The first doubt was... Zheng Tao had registered and married Tan Hui Min in the Sanctuary, yet he didn''t bring his wife back to Xinjie City openly and above board, which was quite suspicious already.


    The second doubt was... after the great purge, Tan Hui Min''s family of over ten met with a tragic massacre. With no remaining family, Tan Hui Min could return to the Sanctuary with Zheng Tao.


    Given what Qiu Tu knew about Zheng Tao, he couldn''t help but suspect there was some inside story.


    As for other details, although Qiu Tu hadn''t spotted any problems for the moment, something still felt odd...


    Especially considering that before Zheng Tao''s promotion, their relationship was average but not hostile; however, after the promotion, Zheng Tao suddenly began to target him as if obsessed.


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but overthink it.


    If Zheng Tao previously sought to steal his credit to show loyalty to Yan Chen,


    now, planting his wife as a spy by his side was definitely crossing the line.


    This was definitely not Yan Chen''s style.


    From what Qiu Tu knew about Yan Chen, he might be treacherous, ruthless, suspicious, and vengeful,


    but... he wouldn''t use such despicable means against an ant like him.


    Yan Chen preferred using a subtle move to guide the situation and create a tsunami to crush his enemies.


    And this method of using one''s wife as a spy and leveraging temptation made Qiu Tu think more and more it resembled....


    ''Larilo!?''


    At the thought of this name, Qiu Tu suddenly snapped awake.


    He felt there might be some plausibility in his analysis.


    After all, Larilo always seemed particularly fond of using the Beauty Trap, espionage, and seduction as tactics.


    Even if they couldn''t obtain information, leading someone to Degeneration seemed to bring her special joy!


    It was like having some strange fetish.


    Now, Zheng Tao willingly placed his wife by his side, setting him up for slander in the Melon Field, and making him develop feelings for Zheng Tao''s wife through daily interaction, ultimately leading to Degeneration.


    It was just too reminiscent of Larilo''s approach!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a chill down his spine.


    He quickly flipped open the files to take another look.


    Because if Zheng Tao truly was a follower of Larilo, or arranged by Larilo, then it''s highly likely he would have been in contact with Larilo years ago, not just recently.


    And the high-level figure who could help him get promoted and arrange for his wife to be placed in the Investigation Bureau must be the Larilo devotee hidden among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau, and probably also one of the senior officials who went to Xinjie City with Zheng Tao back then!


    ------

 Chapter 226 A Night with Qin Shuman (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    ```With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu quickly flipped through the files to the list of those from the Investigation Bureau involved during the great purge incident.


    Deputy Director Lai Shun, Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi, Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin, Administrative Office Director Secretary Bai....


    Both Deputy Directors, both deputy ministers, and deputy division chiefs... all were truly among the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    ''Could it be one of these four?''


    Qiu Tu reviewed the identities and administrative powers of these individuals in his mind.


    Indeed, this list did fit the speculations he had just made.


    All four individuals were influential figures within the Investigation Bureau. Furthermore, all of them could influence decisions regarding the administrative appointments of deputy division chiefs. Read the latest on My Virtual Library Empire


    There''s no need to mention Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin. His area of authority was precisely to promote officials.


    And as his direct superior, also in charge of all administrative and management tasks of the Investigation Bureau, Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi, had even more sway over the appointment of a deputy division chief.


    As for Secretary Bai, his authority might not extend to deciding the appointment of a deputy division chief. But... don''t forget who he is. He''s Yan Chen''s secretary.


    Someone like Tao Yaoyao, serving as a confidential secretary, could still stir up trouble in the entirety of Xinjie City by utilizing Commissioner Jiang''s influence.


    As Yan Chen''s chief secretary, Secretary Bai''s influence was even more formidable. Coupled with his high-standing position. Hence, he doesn''t need to explicitly say it was Yan Chen''s directive, just a hint to Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin would have no choice but to comply.


    Considering all this, only Deputy Director Lai Shun would be slightly less suspicious.


    After all, he and Yu Zhengyi, as well as Shi Youxin, were considered political adversaries and had no influence over the Organizational Department.


    However, despite being less suspicious, he couldn''t be completely ruled out: after all... don''t forget that the Public Security Bureau is under the action department, which is managed by him.


    Therefore, theoretically, his opinion on this department''s deputy chief, whether it be Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin or Yan Chen, would need to be carefully considered.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu frowned and firmly tapped on Secretary Bai''s name with his hand...


    Although he didn''t want to suspect Old Bai.


    But to be frank, Old Bai''s suspicion was indeed too great.


    Apart from being able to influence Zheng Tao''s position, the Secretariat was also within the administrative purview of Old Bai''s Administrative Office.


    This would make it easier for him to help Zheng Tao conceal Tan Huimin''s identity.


    Moreover, remembering how Vice President Tian''s mistress was silenced, Secretary Bai was the first to inform Qiu Tu, insinuating that Qiu Tu should flee... (Chapter 61)


    It might be because of the suspicion that when looking at anything there would be doubt, now Qiu Tu somewhat suspected... whether Secretary Bai wanted him to be the scapegoat then.


    After all, the disciple of Larilo was the one who silenced Vice President Tian''s mistress, and if Qiu Tu had run, the murderer of the case would have been directly pinned on his head.


    There would have been no subsequent investigation, nor the series of events that followed...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu felt a chill down his spine for a moment, shuddering...


    At this time, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s mood, Qin Shuman softly "Mmm~" and then slowly opened her eyes.


    Maybe because this hotel is indeed a safe house of the Security Department, Qin Shuman wasn''t very vigilant overall.


    She propped herself up on the bed, looked up at Qiu Tu with her beautiful peach blossom eyes, and said teasingly, "Minister Qiu is really busy with work~~~"


    "Not even forgetting to look over some documents first during a date~~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s familiar teasing, Qiu Tu suddenly felt his mood lighten. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He smiled and looked at Qin Shuman on the bed, then said, "Well, I didn''t want to wake you up since you were sleeping."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman chuckled, stretched lazily, and said nonchalantly, "Then you miscalculated."


    "Because I didn''t sleep at all."


    Saying this, she pointed to her head and explained, "I was just dealing with some intelligence in the office while waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was somewhat impressed by Qin Shuman''s work intensity and competitive diligence.


    With this woman''s work capacity and diligence, how could his work in the Political Department''s intelligence even compare to hers!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but tease, "Major Qin, could you leave some leeway for the rest of us."


    "With that intelligence capability and work intensity, how is our Investigation Bureau supposed to do our intelligence work!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman slightly raised her eyebrows and said with a hint of pride, "Actually, it''s quite easy to do."


    ```


    "Beg me, and I might just be willing to share intelligence with you."


    This was indeed one of Qiu Tu''s objectives in meeting Shuman Qin that night, so when Shuman Qin took the initiative to propose it, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up instantly.


    He looked at Shuman Qin, "Are you serious?"


    Shuman Qin smiled, "In principle, there''s no problem. After all... you''re one of our Security Department people."


    "But..." As she spoke, Shuman Qin gave Qiu Tu an insinuating smile, implying, "It still depends on your performance... "


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback at first. Then he remembered how his body had strengthened after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, and he suddenly brimmed with confidence!


    He stood up, undressing as he spoke, "Don''t worry! I''ll make sure you''re satisfied!"


    "Hey? Hey? Wait a minute!" Seeing Qiu Tu like this, Shuman Qin blushed and waved her hands repeatedly, "That''s not what I meant."


    But Qiu Tu... didn''t care whether that was her meaning or not.


    Eager to show off his newfound strength, he quickly finished undressing and pounced on her.


    Shuman Qin turned deep red at Qiu Tu''s eager behavior.


    While hitting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, she said shyly, "You really are a rogue."


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t care about any of that; all he wanted to do was to communicate with Shuman Qin.


    ...


    After a satisfying conversation, Qiu Tu held Shuman Qin, feeling much more relaxed.


    And at that moment, Shuman Qin leaned in Qiu Tu''s arms, her face still red, obviously still immersed in the scene that had just unfolded.


    As Qiu Tu''s hand gently caressed her bare spine, he asked, "Shuman, under what circumstances would you marry someone?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shuman Qin was clearly startled.


    First she looked at Qiu Tu with a complex gaze, then teased, "Why? You want to marry me?"


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu was also taken aback.


    In fact... he had again been pondering the identities of Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin while instilling "diligence" during that diligent moment.


    Unexpectedly, Shuman Qin misunderstood him.


    However, being a man who understood women''s hearts, of course he knew that now was not the time to deny it.


    So, he looked at Shuman Qin with a deep affection, "Yes, can''t I?"


    Shuman Qin chuckled lightly, then clicked her tongue twice, shook her head with a coquettish voice, "You man have a problem~~~"


    "All I wanted was a mutually beneficial arrangement, and here you are, wanting to marry me."


    "In these troubled times, do we really need to be so sentimentally attached?"


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu looked her over twice and then said, "Mutually beneficial...?"


    Qiu Tu recalled a moment, and then said, "But if I remember correctly, it seems like you were very unfamiliar with a certain thing from the start. It looks like you''re not skilled at it."


    "Are you sure it''s mutually beneficial and not that you surrendered yourself to me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shuman Qin''s face turned slightly red, as she remembered the incident that happened the first time she met Qiu Tu (Chapter 4).


    She intended to retort, but then Qiu Tu seemed to realize something, then suddenly said, "Eh... that being said."


    "Your true self, couldn''t still be...?"


    "Otherwise, it''d be quite a bargain for me, wouldn''t it?"


    Upon hearing this, Shuman Qin quickly covered Qiu Tu''s mouth with her hand, irritated, she grabbed a document from the table, brandishing the sharp corner of the paper at Qiu Tu''s neck, "Say that again!"


    Being cornered by Shuman Qin this way, Qiu Tu felt slippery...


    He wanted to do something, but worried that Shuman Qin might be too tired, so he could only cough and raised his hands in surrender, "My bad, my bad, Major Qin."


    Hearing this, Shuman Qin snorted coldly, then finally threw the document aside and climbed back onto the bed.


    After sitting for a short while, Shuman Qin began to speak slowly, "Qiu Tu... my family is a bit special."


    -------


    30,000 characters for 3 chapters. There will be one more chapter between 23-24 o''clock. Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 227 Qin Shuman: Lets Work Together (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    "The reason I work so hard is related to this," she said."Although something may have happened between us by a twist of fate. But... once this body decays, it won''t happen again."


    "Please understand." Stay updated via My Virtual Library Empire


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment.


    He hadn''t expected Qin Shuman to take the matter so seriously.


    The jokes he had just made about Qin Shuman''s main body and marriage were really just going along with the topics she brought up.


    Now it seemed that Qin Shuman''s family might have some issues.


    Qiu Tu recalled every little interaction he had had with Qin Shuman.


    He could be fairly certain that Qin Shuman was probably not like Shen Lingshuang, who came from a distinguished family¡ªif she were, she wouldn''t have been trapped in Yan Chen''s mistress''s body and unable to summon the Security Department to free her.


    So... there must be some other reason, right?


    Just as Qiu Tu was trying to figure it out, Qin Shuman did not continue on this topic.


    She sighed, picked up a piece of clothing from the ground to drape over herself, then picked up several documents from the table. Looking at Qiu Tu, she said seriously, "Alright, we''ve already spent enough time tonight."


    "Let''s talk about intelligence and cooperation first."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu checked the time. Without realizing it, he and Qin Shuman had been playing for an hour and a half, and it was indeed time to work.


    Thinking this, he nodded and took the initiative to tell her everything that had happened to him during this time.


    There wasn''t much Qiu Tu felt the need to hide from Qin Shuman, a woman with whom he had shared life-and-death experiences, apart from the Golden Finger and his transmigration.


    As a result, after hearing all the intelligence Qiu Tu had shared, Qin Shuman''s brows were almost knitted into a "chuan" character.


    She was silent for a long time with a grave expression, then finally asked, "So, what you mean is... you''ve been completely entangled by that Evil God?"


    "And... she has followers within the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and said, "That''s right."


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman gave Qiu Tu a complicated look and then took out another document, handing it to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu accepted the document with a puzzled look, only to find that the information was about the founding of Dongye State and some news about the man behind Jia Shu: Huang Shangzong.


    According to the information.


    Huang Shangzong used Moonlight Lake as a pretext to vigorously promote the establishment of Dongye State.


    Therefore, the process of Dongye State''s establishment would be greatly accelerated. It was expected that Dongye State would be officially founded in as soon as half a month, and at latest in a month and a half.


    The capital of Dongye State was chosen to be Eastern City, not far from Xinjie City.


    Besides the three Deputy Speakers, the members of the new State Council had all been confirmed.


    Chairman Huang Shangzong; the heads of the three major power institutions from the other dozen cities would automatically become council members.


    As for the three Deputy Speakers, Liu Xiongyuan, who played a significant role and had high hopes, was vetoed by Huang Shangzong in one fell swoop.


    It was suspected this was due to Jia Shu being assaulted and killed by Liu Xiongyuan.


    Clearly, the death of Jia Shu was an unresolved issue.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look toward Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman, noticing Qiu Tu''s gaze, casually explained, "Huang Shangzong is a very domineering person."


    "Moreover, because he came from an educational background, he has many disciples and former colleagues, which gives him tremendous influence throughout the Sanctuary."


    "You might think he''s just pushing for the establishment of Dongye State. But in reality, aside from promoting its establishment, he has already begun using the name of the Dongye State Council to meddle in the affairs of various cities."


    "For example, various cities'' intelligence agencies have already been instructed to fax their gathered intelligence to the Sanctuary for his Attendees'' Office to study."


    At this point, Qin Shuman paused and said, "Although I guess his main goal is to understand the situation of the major cities faster and more comprehensively."


    "But... he might also be investigating the inside story of Jia Shu''s death."


    "After all... anyone with interest would realize that someone from the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau tipped off Liu Xiongyuan about Jia Shu''s death."


    "In such a case, if he investigates thoroughly, he might end up finding you..."


    "After all, your conflict with Jia Shu was almost public."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment before he slowly said, "When Jia Shu was killed, he was no longer a senior official of the Investigation Bureau, and his name wasn''t even on the Sanctuary''s roster."


    "So, even if they trace it back, he can''t make an issue out of it, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman shook her head. She pointed to the intelligence in Qiu Tu''s hands and said, "You don''t understand Chairman Huang."


    "Even during his time in the Sanctuary, he was known for his straightforward temper and volatility."


    "His way of doing things is also very arrogant and overbearing."


    "To be honest, if he finds out that you were behind Jia Shu''s death, I can imagine him coming to slap you to death."


    At this, Qin Shuman joked, "So... you really did a good job. You managed to deceive the Evil God and anger the Speaker."


    "Otherwise... you might as well run away."


    Qin Shuman said with a smile, "It just so happens that we''ve recently caught another channel to the United Front."


    "Would you like me to provide it to you first? You make contact with them, and after you escape, we''ll take them down."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the countdown in the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (5 days)]


    [Promise of the Evil God (4 days)]


    [Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)]


    Qiu Tu really wanted to say... he had also offended the United Front. And not just the United Front, the Heretic Goddess Girl, as well as Huang Shangzong.


    Even in the darkness, it seemed he had also provoked some unknown Existence.


    ''My life is just too tragic! Why am I making enemies everywhere!''


    For a moment, Qiu Tu didn''t know how to describe his own feelings.


    And considering that in 4 days Larilo would be inspecting Moonlight Lake, and in 5 days the United Front would be attacking him...


    Qiu Tu felt tired... Let it all be destroyed.


    Yes, he really wasn''t just tired because of Sage Time!


    At this moment, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s dejected mood, Qin Shuman smiled and then said, "Actually, things are not that difficult."


    "Let''s solve one issue at a time."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at Qin Shuman and ask, "Solve one issue at a time? Do you have an idea about which one?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head. "I have no clue about any of them."


    "But... the most pressing matter before you right now is actually that of Larilo," she said.


    With that, Qin Shuman paused for a moment before continuing, "And this is also the most urgent matter for our Security Department."


    "After all, a cunning and smart Evil God is really too dangerous."


    "Especially when she has learned to infiltrate the human world and has already cultivated followers within the upper ranks of the Investigation Bureau," she added.


    Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu, her face serious as she suggested, "Therefore, I propose that our two departments secretly form an investigative team."


    "To begin the full-scale investigation of Larilo''s upper-level followers and the whereabouts of her avatars."


    Qin Shuman said, "On my side, I can provide a full set of equipment, intelligence support, and even... provide you with some information about Moonlight Lake to help you gain Larilo''s trust."


    "As for your side. I hope you can take action personally."


    "Keep probing Larilo through that coin, or dig deep into the couple Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin."


    "As long as we make a breakthrough in either of these two lines."


    "We may very well find the avatar of Larilo who descended into this world and the high-level follower who worships her."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu opened his mouth and felt like he was somehow obliged to woo by order...


    Whether it was Larilo or Tan Huimin, he would have to deal with one of them in order to continue down either line.


    And compared to Larilo, whose cleverness was not inferior to Qiu Tu''s, obviously... Tan Huimin was a better breakthrough point.


    Thinking like this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but say, "Alright... I''ll give it a try."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s eyes narrowed slightly, looking at Qiu Tu with a hint of danger, then reminded him, "Although... I have no place to say this."


    "But... I still need to remind you."


    "Qiu Tu... don''t fail to see through her and fall into the Beauty Trap instead."


    "Although we have not yet figured out what Larilo''s Cataclysmic ability is."


    "The more desperately an enemy wants something, the more we mustn''t let her have it." S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "She''s been trying every possible means to tempt you into declaring yourself a follower, or she''s been trying every which way to send women to you."


    "It''s very possible... her ability is related to this."


    Upon hearing this, a thoughtful look flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Qin Shuman''s reminder was indeed sensible.


    Larilo first sent Madame Kong to Qiu Tu, closely followed by Tan Huimin.


    There really could be a problem in all of this...


    Could it be... the pen is poisoned?


    -------


    The last chapter was blocked; it should have just been released.


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words. The 3rd chapter will be updated between 23:00 and 24:00! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 228 Larilos Clone Turns Out to Be Her! (10k Words to Ask for Subscription!)

    Of course, this "poison" is not the same "poison" as the other.Qiu Tu hadn''t suspected that Larilo would poison the bodies of those women so that once he had relations with them, he would be poisoned himself.


    He guessed that Larilo''s abilities were likely related to having relations.


    Those women were probably implanted with something like a "gu": as long as he had deep interactions with them, there was a high probability that he would be "infected" by those things or be "marked". From then on, he would become a follower of Larilo.


    Otherwise, he really couldn''t explain why Larilo was so persistent in sending women to his side, or in using women to lure him.


    She can''t simply enjoy being a pimp, right?


    Following this thought, Qiu Tu grew more and more convinced it was the case.


    Even... he thought of more.


    With this in mind, he couldn''t help but glance at Qin Shuman, who was getting dressed beside the bed.


    At that moment, seemingly sensing Qiu Tu''s gaze, Qin Shuman finished dressing and lifted her eyes to look at Qiu Tu.


    She brushed her hair and then joked with a smile, "What''s the matter? Minister Qiu, have you really fallen for a beauty trap these days?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu got up with a smile, drew her into his arms, and said, "Of course not."


    "I just think you''re right."


    "Since Larilo keeps sending women my way, she''s most likely plotting something against me."


    Qiu Tu said, "So... I feel that her Cataclysmic ability is highly likely to be related to matters between men and women."


    "Following that, I''ve thought of more."


    Qiu Tu lifted Qin Shuman onto his lap and then began counting on his fingers as he analyzed for her, "You see."


    "Larilo''s ability has something to do with men and women."


    "That''s why Old Master Qin would use one of his personas to go around seducing and womanizing."


    "So, through Jia Wei''s actions, Larilo secretly brought Madame Kong to my side."


    "Therefore, Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin, is highly likely to have issues as well, which is why Zheng Tao was ensnared by Larilo."


    "Calculating this way, have you noticed a problem?"


    Qin Shuman clearly didn''t understand Qiu Tu''s implications. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly, and she gazed at Qiu Tu with a puzzled expression.


    Qiu Tu hinted, "All the women... who have come into contact with Larilo''s followers seem to have some issues."


    Qin Shuman remained somewhat perplexed at first, but the next second, she suddenly grasped the meaning behind Qiu Tu''s words.


    She stood up abruptly, then pointed at herself with a look of surprise and exclaimed, "Are you saying... this body?!"


    Qiu Tu nodded solemnly.


    This was an issue that had just occurred to Qiu Tu.


    If Larilo''s Cataclysm Path was "Reproduction", and her Cataclysmic ability was related to "matters between men and women", and she could plant "Dark Thunder" within women,


    then... why hadn''t she left Dark Thunder inside "Qin Shuman"?


    Why hadn''t Yan Chen, associated with "Qin Shuman", fallen under Larilo''s control?


    Keep in mind, the body of "Qin Shuman" was painstakingly created by Larilo''s follower, Old Master Qin, over many years.


    If Larilo could lay down Dark Thunder in Tan Huimin years ago or lure Zheng Tao, it proves she could have done the same with the body of "Qin Shuman".


    Yet to this day, Yan Chen has been fine.


    There are only three possibilities.


    One, Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic ability level is too high, making Larilo''s ability ineffective on him.


    Two, actually, Larilo''s ability has already taken effect. Except... the person affected isn''t Yan Chen, but Qiu Tu''s predecessor.


    Three, Yan Chen''s identity is too sensitive, and Larilo has other plans for him.


    These three possibilities are not entirely independent or singular, they''re likely a combination of factors at play.


    For example, Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic ability level is too high, Larilo''s ability doesn''t affect him, so she simply settles for the next best thing, targeting Qiu Tu''s predecessor.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Qin Shuman appeared to have her thoughts unlocked as well.


    She stood up from Qiu Tu''s lap and, with a look of excitement, started pacing the room while lost in thought.


    After a moment, she stopped with her back to Qiu Tu, then suddenly turned around to face him and said, "So... this explains why both ''Qin Shuman'' and ''Qiu Tu'' suddenly had their souls wiped clean!"


    "It also explains why Larilo is so familiar with you and has been targeting you."


    Qiu Tu nodded and speculated, "I have a feeling Larilo does have something special for me. She seems to indeed have a particular interest in me."


    "And as for Yan Chen... though I''m not sure what level of Cataclysmic he actually is."


    "But I would guess he is no less than Director Tang."


    Qiu Tu said, "I''ve had a discussion with Director Tang about Yan Chen''s strength."


    "Although she says that Yan Chen''s strength is not as great as hers."


    "But I think that alone indicates that Yan Chen''s strength is noteworthy in her eyes."


    "Meaning... he has likely advanced to a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "In that case, Larilo''s ability probably really can''t affect him, or it doesn''t have as strong an effect on him."


    "So, it''s reasonable that she would instead target ''you'' and ''me'' as the next best thing..."


    "This is probably also one of the reasons you and I possessed this body..."


    Qin Shuman nodded slightly, her eyes revealing deep contemplation.


    Then she asked, "What about the third point you mentioned? What do you think Larilo''s plot is with Yan Chen?"


    At this, Qiu Tu explained, "I don''t know what the specific plot is."


    "But I believe... Old Master Qin didn''t choose his targets randomly."


    While saying this, Qiu Tu got up and walked to the window, then pulled the curtain aside.


    Xinjie City seemed exceptionally peaceful tonight, without wind or rain.


    Moreover, there seemed to be many more lights in the nighttime city, like countless eyes lighting up in the darkness.


    This represented Xinjie City''s ever-increasing stability and prosperity.


    Though Commissioner Jiang''s presence in Xinjie City wasn''t as prominent as the other two giants, nor was his personality as dominant.


    His ability to facilitate infrastructure construction and economic development was nevertheless commendable.


    This could be observed from the day-to-day transformative changes in Xinjie City.


    While pondering this, Qiu Tu opened the window and took out a cigarette to light.


    The night breeze caressed him as he squinted and took a deep drag, then said, "From my contact with Old Master Qin, it''s apparent he''s been completely brainwashed into a devout believer."


    "Xinjie City has been designated as a Planning Area, and with the Qin Family''s influence in Xinjie City, they could have received substantial rewards from any faction, without the need to take sides so early on."


    "So, don''t you find it strange that he reached out to Yan Chen so early and revived Yan Chen''s wife."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was startled and then pointed at her own body in surprise, saying, "What did you say? Do you mean this body uses the genes of Yan Chen''s wife?"


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then said, "Did I not mention that piece of information just now?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head.


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly let out an "Oh" and then, with his hands on the bed''s edge, continued to gaze into the night and said, "Well, now you know."


    "''Qin Shuman''s'' body is genetically derived from Yan Chen. It''s a clone of his wife, specially crafted by Old Master Qin to please Yan Chen."


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    After explaining this, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "But don''t you think it''s odd?"


    "The Qin Family spent so many years ''reviving'' Yan Chen''s wife, yet after the establishment of Xinjie City, they didn''t side with Yan Chen."


    A hint of thoughtfulness flashed in Qin Shuman''s eyes.


    Following Qiu Tu''s analysis, she continued to reason and extrapolate, "It is indeed unusual."


    "The Qin Family only fully sided with Yan Chen after you set the trap."


    "Before that, they had not allied with any of the three major forces. It seems they were holding out for a better deal."


    "This indicates they knew their own worth and realized that at this stage, they didn''t need to please Yan Chen."


    Qin Shuman approached Qiu Tu, snatching the cigarette from his mouth.


    As she snuffed it out, she continued her assessment, "As a result, the Qin Family did so much for Yan Chen, only to receive a Deputy Division Chief position in return. It does seem somewhat unreasonable."


    She said, "Previously, this matter didn''t attract much attention because most people were actually unaware of this transaction. And even if they knew, they would assume: The death of Old Master Qin led to the Qin Family losing contact with Yan Chen. That''s why the two sides weren''t close."


    "But¡­ later we found out that Old Master Qin wasn''t dead. He stole the bodies of Qin Heng and Qin Cheng and continues to live in this world."


    "This makes the matter truly worthy of contemplation."


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "Yes. The fact that Old Master Qin isn''t dead brings an interesting twist to the entire event."


    "One, the Qin Family hasn''t broken contact with Yan Chen. Given the high price they paid, they theoretically shouldn''t just let go."


    "Two... and this is most important. To Old Master Qin, Qin Zhengguang, also known as Second Master Qin, is actually not important at all!"


    "He even killed his own elder son, crafted a clone body for himself, and achieved immortality. Why... would he scheme so much and pay such a price for a second son?"


    Qin Shuman nodded at his words and then agreed, "Yes. The fact that Old Master Qin is still alive makes the whole matter unreasonable."


    "So, the most reasonable hypothesis is that: Old Master Qin acquiring a position for Qin Zhengguang was a sham, and the truth was to get close to Yan Chen to help him revive his wife."


    At this point, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but look towards Qiu Tu.


    In the night, Qiu Tu was only wearing the black jacket of the Political Department, his chest exposed, and without the usual oppressive aura of a Political Department Investigator, he had an added air of a carefree wanderer.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s handsome profile, Qin Shuman was also reminiscing about Qiu Tu''s entire deduction.


    The entire deduction seemed simple, yet it required a revolutionary way of thinking to overturn all previous impressions and conclusions, and to gather all the fragmented clues together for a new deduction.


    And this demanded an exceptionally strong logical acumen and the ability to deduce from the details and clues.


    She had already noticed that Qiu Tu was very different. Now, she found her impression of Qiu Tu refreshed once again...


    ''Perhaps... he really could become a great man to be looked up to.''


    Thinking this, Qin Shuman involuntarily thought of her own family, her hand tightening slightly. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Possibly because he was looking at the night scenery, Qiu Tu hadn''t noticed Qin Shuman''s unusual expression. He was still reveling in the thrill of uncovering the whole truth of the event.


    He whispered, "Shuman, do you know what conclusion I came to after deducing this result?"


    Qin Shuman revived her attentiveness at his words.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "What conclusion?"


    Qiu Tu turned to her and said, "The conclusion is... I might have guessed who Larilo''s possession has descended into."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, who had been somewhat distracted, was startled, her body trembling involuntarily.


    She quickly raised her head to look at Qiu Tu, "Who is it?"


    Qiu Tu''s lips curved into a smile, then he said with a chuckle, "Yanyan."


    Having never previously included that name in her list of suspects, Qin Shuman frowned slightly, her mind racing back in recollection.


    "Yanyan... Yanyan..."


    After a moment, Qin Shuman had a sudden realization, "You mean Yan Chen''s daughter Yanyan?"


    She blurted out a wealth of information, "Yanyan, real name Yan Yan. 17 years old. The only daughter of Yan Chen. Grew up in the Sanctuary, loves flowers and plants."


    "Has a soft and kind disposition. She once attended the Third Sanctuary [Agricultural University] for further studies. Specializes in plant cultivation and hybridization."


    Having recalled the information, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but ask curiously, "But... how did you deduce that she is Larilo''s possession?"


    -------


    A 10,000-word chapter for you. I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!


    Continuing with a 10k daily word count tomorrow!

 Chapter 229 The Second Evil God (10,000 characters plea for subscription!)

    In the night, light and shadows intertwined.The face of Qin Shuman, derived from Yan Chen''s wife, also seemed exceptionally charming.


    Qiu Tu looked at the beautiful, glamorous face and, while envying Yan Chen''s good fortune, also conjured up the image of Yanyan''s angelic, pure face.


    In fact, Qiu Tu had started to doubt Yanyan not today.


    As early as his second encounter with Yanyan, he had pondered whether she could be a part of the Heretic Goddess Girl Larilo.


    The reason was simple: what had Larilo come to this world for?


    To infiltrate this world, to spread her own faith.


    And what was Larilo''s method of coming to this world?


    Incarnation through a clone.


    That is to say, even if Larilo''s avatar in this world was destroyed, it would actually have little impact on her.


    Therefore, she definitely would not choose her avatar in a "covert" manner.


    To put it bluntly, in order to fulfill her purpose of infiltrating this world, she wouldn''t choose a random passerby.


    ¡ªBecause a "random passerby" has too little influence on this world.


    Thus, she would certainly pick someone with a high status, as only through such a person could she influence more people and more easily achieve her goals.


    During this time, although many people came and went in Xinjie City, the highest status girls were only a few, like Yanyan, Shen Lingshuang, and others.


    Although Shen Lingshuang''s status was high, her influence was mainly in the Third Sanctuary and couldn''t be "monetized" in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    Moreover, Old Master Qin had likely not had the opportunity to contact her a few years ago, so of course, Yanyan was the person Qiu Tu most suspected.


    Later, when he knew that among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau there were followers of Larilo, his suspicion of Yanyan grew even stronger.


    And all of this, until just now, had reached a crescendo.


    That is...if Old Master Qin was not collaborating with Yan Chen for the future of his own son, then why would he create a clone of Yan Chen''s wife?


    Moreover, after creating the cloned female body, Larilo did not control Yan Chen.


    What then was her true purpose?


    It couldn''t possibly be to perform charity or to sing praises to love, right?


    So, after thinking it over, a bold idea arose in Qiu Tu''s mind: could it be that Old Master Qin not only cloned Yan Chen''s wife but also... cloned Yan Chen''s daughter?


    Was the reason Old Master Qin helped Yan Chen revive his wife to get close to Yanyan, to obtain Yanyan''s genetic material?


    The reason for choosing Yanyan as a target, Qiu Tu thought, was not hard to guess.


    Because the location where Larilo descended was in Xinjie City, and at that time, Yan Chen had already been confirmed as the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City.


    As one of Xinjie City''s future Three Giants, Yan Chen''s future status was bound to be at the pinnacle of Xinjie City.


    Therefore, descending as his daughter would certainly be worthwhile.


    Secondly... if Qiu Tu was not mistaken, that betrayer among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau, likely similar to Zheng Tao, was seduced and degenerated by Larilo during the Great Purge.


    And he was Yan Chen''s confidant.


    Therefore, with his support, Larilo''s undercover work would proceed more smoothly, and she would be able to exert her influence more easily.


    It was precisely because he grasped these points tonight that Qiu Tu was almost 100% certain that the cloned female body which Larilo descended into was Yanyan.


    With this realization, the image of Secretary Bai once again emerged in Qiu Tu''s mind...


    Because, if Yanyan really was an avatar of Larilo, then Secretary Bai''s suspicion would rise sharply again.


    After all... Secretary Bai was not only the person most likely to cooperate with Yanyan to exert Yan Chen''s influence.


    Moreover... more importantly, if Qiu Tu remembered correctly, the day Yanyan came from the Sanctuary to Xinjie City, it was Secretary Bai who received her. (Chapter 124)


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the night in the study when Secretary Bai, soaked on one side, stood under an umbrella.


    His heart began to sink.


    ''Old Bai... is it really you?''


    After reasoning through all the grounds for suspecting Yanyan to be an avatar of Larilo in his mind, Qiu Tu explained them one by one to Qin Shuman at a deliberate pace.


    After listening to Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman''s brows furrowed slightly, and after pondering for a moment, she nodded.


    "It makes sense..." she remarked, "No wonder our Security Department has not found any traces of anomaly despite casting a wide net in various parts of Xinjie City."


    "It turns out that Larilo was hidden in Yan Chen''s garden villa."


    Qin Shuman brushed the stray hair at the side of her face behind her ear, "That place is indeed the safest in Xinjie City."


    "After all, without a high-level search warrant issued by the Sanctuary... no, even with a high-level search warrant, we are not authorized to search the villa of the Investigation Bureau Chief."


    "To search a villa of the Investigation Bureau Chief, only a Disciplinary Committee dispatched by the Sanctuary can manage it."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman seemed to recall something.


    She moved her slender legs and walked to the bedside, took some documents from a bedside cabinet, and handed them to Qiu Tu.


    Then she said, "These are all interrogation records of Old Master Qin." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They also involve information about Larilo."


    "Under normal circumstances, this document couldn''t be provided to you in written form."


    "But... who made you get promoted and become the Deputy Minister of the Political Department."


    "With your authority, you already have access to this information."


    "So, I just brought them directly to you."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu took the documents and skimmed through them at a glance.


    The information revealed by Old Master Qin was actually not much. After all... Larilo had installed a "trigger word" device on him, and when he spoke of key intelligence, Larilo blew up his head.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu had already collected a lot of information about Larilo during this period. Hence, there was not much valuable content in the whole document.


    Only two pieces of intelligence caught Qiu Tu''s attention.


    The first was that Old Master Qin said Larilo had actually begun to strategize in the Cataclysm area near Xinjie City many years ago.


    He was neither Larilo''s first nor last follower.


    In the cities near Xinjie City, Larilo actually also has widespread influence.


    After all, reproduction is the instinct of all living things, and men are particularly avid supporters of certain activities.


    Larilo not only perfectly satisfies men''s desires, but also trains women, so many powerful and influential figures actually worship Larilo in secret.


    The second piece of intelligence is that, apart from Larilo, other Heretic Gods are marking their territories around Xinjie City, and this has been happening in the past two years.


    The reason is that after Old Master Qin established Xinjie City, he once went to Eastern City nearby to conduct business.


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    At that time, Old Master Qin had tried summoning Larilo.


    After Larilo appeared, she was initially indifferent.


    But when she realized that Old Master Qin was summoning her in Eastern City, her expression immediately turned solemn, and without saying much, she returned to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Old Master Qin didn''t understand at first. It was Larilo who later explained to him that a very powerful Heretic God, Zhao Ji, was entrenched near Eastern City.


    And Heretic Gods do not coexist peacefully with one another.


    Initially, they would fight and devour each other. Later, realizing that this approach often resulted in mutual heavy losses, they started to mark their own territories like wild beasts.


    Among these, Xinjie City is Larilo''s territory.


    As for Eastern City and several other surrounding cities, they fall under Zhao Ji''s territory.


    After initially descending forcefully and clashing directly with the human world¡ªonly to gain little to no benefit¡ªthe Heretic Gods became more cunning.


    They began sifting through believers using faith, bolstering their own strength, installing their spies amongst the three major power structures, and gradually infiltrating the human world.


    They aim to ascend their spies to high positions, or spread them through the mid-ranks, in order to crack open the human world and enable their true descent...


    This is also a significant reason why the three major institutions are wary of each other, planting spies, and investigating one another.


    Having finished reading the material from Old Master Qin, Qiu Tu''s gaze was profound.


    He had found it strange before: the world is already chaotic, and there''s also a major external enemy.


    Why do the three major power institutions still maintain their rivalries?


    Although part of the reason is that the powers within the Eighth Sanctuary had not fully integrated, and were still in the process of harmonizing.


    But such aggressive efforts at implanting agents within other forces still seemed a bit excessive to him.


    Now he finally understood.


    It is actually a special kind of mutual Supervisory system compelled by external pressure: internal monitoring is often only top-down, while peer monitoring can easily become a mere formality.


    So, simply turn internal monitoring into "external monitoring." Use spies from other organizations to monitor for Degeneration in middle and upper management.


    If there is any Degeneration in middle and upper management, it can be eliminated promptly.


    If there isn''t any Degeneration, it can also promote the improvement of secrecy and counter-espionage abilities among these middle and upper ranks.


    To prevent future infiltration or secret exposure to the Heretic Gods.


    ''Indeed... every unique system bears the imprint of the unique era in which it exists.''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu gradually withdrew his thoughts and then handed the documents back to Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman took the materials, then casually gathered up the other documents as well, and placed them in a silver brazier.


    Then she stretched out her hand toward Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu tacitly took a match from his pocket and placed it in her hand.


    Qin Shuman took the matchbox, pulled out a match.


    "Scratch!"


    A match flared inside the room, Qin Shuman let go, and the burning match, sprinkling sparks, then fell into the silver basin.


    "Woosh!" Flames leaped up, and the materials began to burn furiously in the flames.


    With the blaze as a backdrop, Qin Shuman stretched languidly, displaying her flawless curves and slender waist.


    Then, looking at Qiu Tu, she giggled and said, "Our Security Department isn''t quite convenient for investigating Director Yan''s family or Secretary Bai."


    "So... the next steps will have to trouble Minister Qiu~~"


    Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Others at least promise something tempting. You can''t even bother with that, can you?"


    Qin Shuman covered her mouth and chuckled, then said, "Don''t worry. I will arrange an action team equipped with the necessary gear to protect you at all times and to follow your commands."


    "They should find you to report tomorrow morning."


    "Should any emergency arise, or should you encounter danger, you can contact them immediately."


    Towards the end, Qin Shuman approached with a mischievous smile, adjusted the uniform draped over Qiu Tu with her hand, and giggled, "Don''t worry~~ After the case is cracked, I''ll definitely commend you for your work."


    Qiu Tu had known Qin Shuman for more than a day.


    If Qin Shuman was laughing so heartily, she was mostly acting. So, he unceremoniously put his arms around her, then leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Do I care about your commendations? How about... a different kind of repayment?"


    "I''m quite interested in your true form..."


    This time, Qin Shuman didn''t blush. Perhaps because she had "put on her mask," she smiled and winked at Qiu Tu, "That depends on your efforts, Minister Qiu~~~"


    The quiver in her voice made Qiu Tu''s body feel a bit weak.


    His hand involuntarily moved to slide down her back.


    But just then, Qin Shuman reached behind and caught his hand.


    "Minister Qiu~~ It''s quite late. You should head back."


    Qin Shuman''s eyes were bright as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu had the intention to let things escalate, but remembering Qin Shuman''s recent fatigue and her direct way of showing him out, he ultimately suppressed what he wanted to say.


    "Alright then. I''ll be going."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu paused, then asked one final question.


    "By the way, if I want to help you, to what extent should I go?"


    If someone else heard this, they''d probably be baffled, not understanding what Qiu Tu meant by this question.


    ------

 Chapter 230 Attack of Huang Shangzong (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    But for Qin Shuman, her family was always a thorn in her side.So when Qiu Tu just asked, she understood what he meant.


    Her heart couldn''t help but tremble. Then she looked at Qiu Tu, smiling and said, "At least not until you become the Bureau Chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked deeply into Qin Shuman''s eyes, then nodded, "Don''t worry, that day will come."


    Qin Shuman was stunned for a moment, her face breaking into a brilliant smile¡ªunlike the "masked" fake smile from before, this was a genuine smile from the bottom of her heart.


    After finishing the last question, Qiu Tu didn''t continue to cheekily stay on.


    He put on his clothes, then confirmed the next steps of their plan with Qin Shuman before preparing to leave the room.


    But as his hand was about to touch the doorknob, he suddenly stopped.


    He turned around and asked, "Right, one more question. Do you have Secretary Bai''s file? Is he a Second-Order Cataclysmic or a Third Order Cataclysmic?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment before answering, "He''s a First-Order Catastropher."


    Qiu Tu was surprised for a moment but then thought that positions within the Sanctuary weren''t necessarily linked to strength, and found it reasonable that Secretary Bai was a First-Order Catastropher.


    So he nodded and turned the doorknob.


    As the door opened, Qiu Tu stopped again.


    Qin Shuman was amused by Qiu Tu''s reluctance to leave and laughed coyly as she leaned on the table inside the room, "Minister Qiu, it seems you can''t bear to leave Shuman~~~"


    "Ha-ha," Qiu Tu laughed twice at her words.


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out the "Nightmare Crystal Vial."


    Then he opened the lid, quickly walked over to Qin Shuman, and handed it to her.


    Qin Shuman took the somewhat familiar vial, glanced at Qiu Tu with some confusion, and said, "What''s this.....?"


    "Something tasty," Qiu Tu replied.


    Rolling her eyes at Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman said with irritation, "That''s what you said about that white stuff you had me swallow just now."


    Despite her teasing, Qin Shuman still took the Nightmare Crystal Vial and drank it all in one gulp.


    As soon as the potion was down her throat, Qin Shuman immediately felt a clarity in her soul, the fatigue of the past few days swept away, and her spiritual power seemed to be nourished, replenished with energy.


    ''Is this a special kind of energy-replenishing Cataclysmic Potion?'' she thought.


    Thinking that, Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu with tender eyes, handed back the empty vial while softly saying, "Thank you."


    Qiu Tu took the crystal bottle, smiled and waved his hand, then left a message, "Take care of yourself, don''t overdo it. I would feel distressed." With that, he turned and left without looking back...


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Qin Shuman''s gaze was distant.


    ''If only it were him.''


    ''Sigh... It''s a shame, my family probably wouldn''t agree.'' Enjoy new chapters from My Virtual Library Empire


    After spacing out for a while, Qin Shuman slowly came back to her senses, her eyes once again filled with determination and passion...


    ''Keep working hard!''


    ...


    After descending the stairs and getting into the car, Qiu Tu thought for a moment and roughly set the plan for the next few days.


    He would first return to his new home tonight to see Shen Lingshuang and spend time with her. Also, to tally up the recent gains.


    Tomorrow, he planned to continue training Tan Huimin, using her to investigate potential traitors in the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    After that, he intended to reach out to Yanyan and test this avatar of the Evil God.


    And finally, the most important, he planned to arrange a meeting with Secretary Bai to determine whether he truly was an Evil God Cultist.


    To be honest, although his rationality told him that Secretary Bai had too many red flags to not be an Evil God Cultist,


    But... his instincts still didn''t believe it.


    This was not just because of Secretary Bai''s character, but also because... Qiu Tu''s several encounters with Larilo made him realize that this Heretic Goddess Girl was no simple individual.


    She was just as cunning and calculating as himself (not really)... with a talent for strategic planning and setting traps just like him.


    In fact, Qiu Tu really thought there were too many doubts regarding Secretary Bai, so much so that it was almost enough to write his name directly into the traitor list.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu suspected... could this possibly be framing by Larilo?


    So, he still wanted to give Secretary Bai a chance to have a proper chat...


    But these were all things for tomorrow. Now,


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu drove towards his new home on Longshan Road.


    As the most top-tier local wealthy district in Xinjie City, the security measures of Longshan Road were always formidable.


    Indeed, just when approaching the intersection near Longshan Road, a squad of private soldiers armed with rifles stopped Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu''s black uniform and the three stripes and three stars on his epaulets, the soldiers instantly adopted a more solemn demeanor.


    The leading soldier, not daring to be negligent, hastily saluted Qiu Tu and respectfully said, "Good day, Officer. May I ask which villa you wish to visit?"


    Qiu Tu, already familiar with the rules of Longshan Road, accordingly raised his hand and took out a purple residence card, showing it to the other party.


    The soldier was taken aback as he saw it.


    Then, after taking the purple card and inspecting it carefully, he spoke to Qiu Tu, "Officer, I apologize for the inconvenience. Please wait a moment."


    After speaking, he took out a communicator and began to contact his superior.


    Qiu Tu neither urged him on nor showed any irritation. The stricter and more meticulous the security of Longshan Road was, the safer he and Shen Lingshuang would be.


    After a short while, the soldier respectfully returned the card to Qiu Tu and said, "Minister Qiu, I am sorry for the delay."


    "Please enter."


    After speaking, he stepped aside, made a few hand gestures.


    Immediately, the checkpoint in the middle of the road lifted, allowing passage. The soldiers flanking the road saluted, watching as Qiu Tu departed.


    From the strict security measures and the emotional value it provided, Qiu Tu felt that the villa was worth the purchase.


    And when he contrasted it with the slum he had lived in for two months after his arrival...


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel contemplative: Indeed, no matter which world or era, the wealthy never treat themselves poorly.


    And so, Qiu Tu continued driving forward. He passed through three checkpoints before entering the villa area of Longshan Road.


    Following the address Lin Zuo gave him the previous day, Qiu Tu quickly found the villa prepared for him by the Security Department.


    After personally experiencing the outstanding security of Longshan Road, Qiu Tu finally felt at ease.


    He thought that the crisis of "Revenge of the Linked Formation", which was due in five days, should not be much of a problem.


    As he thought this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the countdown hourglass in the upper left of his vision.


    Just when he looked at those hourglasses, suddenly, several lines of prompts popped up in front of him.


    "Crisis ''Threat in the Darkness'' has changed."


    "Your influential actions in the Jia Shu incident have not escaped the notice of Huang Shangzong''s legal eye."


    "After analysis, he has narrowed the suspects down to you. Hence, he has sent his Advisor Wu Zhi from his attendant''s chamber to secretly arrive in Xinjie City."


    "And due to your recent meteoric rise and actions, a certain member of the City Hall has also been preparing to deal with you."


    "The two hit it off. A huge conspiracy is about to descend upon you."


    "You have only one day to prepare, so please be sure to get ready for this conspiracy."


    Accompanying the prompt in front of him, the original ¡Þ symbol slowly transformed into 32 hours.


    Looking at the prompts before him, Qiu Tu was silent for a moment. Then, he suddenly laughed.


    Indeed, he thought, the world doesn''t only have one smart person. He is smart, Huang Shangzong is smart, Qin Shuman is smart as well.


    Because Qin Shuman indeed guessed correctly. Huang Shangzong does not need reasons or evidence; if he suspects someone, with his status, he can take action directly against that person without concern for the consequences.


    The only thing different from the past is this: the Qiu Tu from before was just an ordinary person, someone who could easily be killed by anyone.


    But the current Qiu Tu is now the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, and he also has Sanctuary status. So even someone with Huang Shangzong''s stature has to resort to scheming against him, rather than simply crushing him outright! S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... when it comes to conspiracies, Qiu Tu has never been afraid!


    What he loves the most are conspiracies!


    So, Qiu Tu temporarily pushed the matter to the back of his mind, planning to give it some serious thought tomorrow.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu parked the car, took out his keys, and opened the gate.


    He stepped across the lawn and entered the villa''s outer hall.


    Just as he entered the outer hall, Qiu Tu''s ears suddenly caught a series of fierce barks, "Woof woof woof!"


    Qiu Tu jumped in surprise, then noticed a small white dog darting out from under the sofa, charging towards him.


    Not to mention Qiu Tu, now a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, even if he were a First-Order Catastropher, dealing with such a small dog would be effortless.


    So, he bent down, reached out, and plucked the small white dog by the neck easily.


    While holding the small white dog on one side, Qiu Tu turned on the light with the other and curiously asked, "Where did you come from, little dog?"


    Just as Qiu Tu spoke.


    Suddenly, the small white dog''s head inflated like a balloon swelling up drastically, ballooning from the size of a fist to that of a yoga ball.


    Immediately after, the small white dog fiercely opened its mouth, snapping at Qiu Tu''s head!


    ----


    10,000-word plea for Monthly Tickets, ha!

 Chapter 231 Shen Lingshuang: I Miss You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Damn, what the hell is this!"Qiu Tu was truly startled this time.


    After all, whose pet dog''s head suddenly gets bigger?


    So he reached out and flung his hand, sending the little white dog flying out.


    Just at that moment, a surprised cry came from upstairs, "Xiao Bai! Don''t hurt Qiu... Qiu Tu, don''t hurt Xiao Bai!"


    ''Xiao Bai?'' Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s calling, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    He wanted to retract his movement, but his "move" was already made and couldn''t be stopped, so he could only slightly lessen his strength and adjust the direction, throwing the little white dog onto the sofa.


    But let''s not forget, Qiu Tu is a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. So even though he held back his strength,


    the little white dog still smashed into the sofa like a cannonball!


    Fortunately, the sofa was somewhat elastic, so after the little white dog deeply crashed into it, it immediately bounced back out.


    It probably realized that Qiu Tu was not to be trifled with, so this time it didn''t attack Qiu Tu again, but instead ran to Shen Lingshuang with its tail between its legs, whimpering.


    Meanwhile, Shen Lingshuang, dressed in a pink nightgown and pink slippers, also scampered downstairs with a "tap tap tap."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang, the little white dog whined and leaped up, lunging towards her, as if to tell her its grievances.


    But Shen Lingshuang, as if she didn''t see it, passed by it without hesitation, and then... launched herself into Qiu Tu''s arms!


    The little white dog in midair''s eyes widened: Woof?


    And then... it plunged onto the floor.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu reached out to catch Shen Lingshuang''s leap, holding her small, soft body.


    Supporting Shen Lingshuang''s pert little behind, Qiu Tu lifted her up with a smile, then asked, "When did you get a dog?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang suddenly realized she had forgotten her dog.


    She hastily looked back and saw that the little white dog had already fallen to the floor.


    She exclaimed, "Aiya, are you okay, Xiao Bai?"


    The little white dog seemed to really understand human nature, as it rolled its eyes at Shen Lingshuang and then burrowed under the sofa on its paws, ignoring the two of them.


    Seeing this, Shen Lingshuang chuckled and turned her head, wrapping her legs around Qiu Tu''s waist and her hands around his neck, then with a laugh, she introduced, "That''s Xiao Bai. The little white dog I mentioned to you!"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu hesitated, then belatedly recalled that Shen Lingshuang had told him before, in order to test the potion''s effect, she had taken in a white stray dog for experiments.


    As a result, one moment she turned the stray dog to stone, another she made parts of its body grow big, and still, another got it extremely excited.


    Looks like this must be the one.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "Why is its head still getting bigger now?"


    At his words, Shen Lingshuang, laying on top of Qiu Tu, said with a bit of embarrassment, "I''m not sure..."


    "I recently concocted two potions, one is ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion,'' and the other is ''Transformation Potion.''


    "I''ve saved the ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion'' for you. I tried feeding some ''Transformation Potion'' to it, and it didn''t have any effect. But... it seems to have made all of its previous potion effects permanent."


    Shen Lingshuang said, "Now Xiao Bai can turn into a small rock, or suddenly grow its head. Pretty impressive, huh!"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s explanation, Qiu Tu: ...


    She truly is the Devil Potion Master.


    Xiao Bai, following Shen Lingshuang, must''ve either burned incense in its past life or desecrated someone''s grave...


    After all, although it now lives in a villa, no longer worrying about food or drink, and no longer needing to fear being captured and eaten by common folk in turbulent times, it seems... it also has to endure potions that it shouldn''t have to at its age.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was thinking this, Shen Lingshuang, as if she had sniffed something, suddenly started nosing around Qiu Tu''s neck and body like a little dog.


    After a moment, she looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion and asked, "Which woman did you go fooling around with tonight?"


    "Why do you smell so nice?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu hesitantly lifted his arm and sniffed: no scent whatsoever.


    He asked in surprise, "Really? I don''t smell anything."


    Without waiting for Shen Lingshuang to continue her questioning or argue, he simply said, "Nah. Nobody."


    "I went to meet a major from the Security Department tonight."


    "We discussed some in-depth cooperation."


    "Maybe because we were talking close together,"


    "so I got the scent of her perfume on me, I guess."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang gave him a doubtful look, "Really?"


    Raising his hand as if to swear, Qiu Tu said, "Of course it''s true. If I don''t go tonight to discuss a collaboration and talk about intelligence with the female major from the Security Department, I''ll... I''ll..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s eyes shifted, and then he looked at Xiao Bai, who was burrowed under the sofa, saying, "I''ll turn into Xiao Bai!"


    Not sure if it was because he heard his name or he understood Qiu Tu''s words, Xiao Bai "Woof... Wang?" poked his head out from under the sofa and looked at Qiu Tu.


    Meanwhile, having heard Qiu Tu''s oath, Shen Lingshuang actually believed him. She happily jumped down from Qiu Tu and said with an adorable smile, "Alright, then I believe you."


    After she spoke, her watery, almond-shaped eyes looked at Qiu Tu, and she considerately asked, "Have you eaten yet? Should I go downstairs and make something for you to eat?"


    The young girl clearly didn''t understand the innuendo behind Qiu Tu''s phrase from his past life, so she asked innocently.


    But Qiu Tu''s thoughts unavoidably drifted, and his gaze followed down from Shen Lingshuang''s slightly budding chest, over her flat belly, slender waist, and finally rested below.


    The next second, he withdrew his gaze and coughed, "Forget it, you''re too young."


    "Wait until next year."


    Shen Lingshuang cocked her head, "???"


    Her large eyes showed clear confusion...


    Preparing a simple meal of two bowls of noodles with a couple of eggs added, Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang each held a bowl and started eating at the dining table.


    During the meal, though Shen Lingshuang''s head was buried in her bowl, her wide eyes never left Qiu Tu.


    As a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu now had incredibly sharp senses, so he was acutely aware of Shen Lingshuang''s gaze.


    He asked with a smile, "What''s up? Why are you staring at me the whole time?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang giggled and then flashed her cute dimples, "Nothing. Just... haven''t seen you in a while. I missed you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu tapped her on the head and said with a smile, "Nonsense. We saw each other a few days ago."


    "Besides, I came back tonight, didn''t I?"


    Shen Lingshuang pouted, "You don''t understand. This is called ''one day apart feels like three autumns!''"


    At that, Qiu Tu smiled and gently patted Shen Lingshuang''s head.


    Somehow, the once haughty female prisoner had become the closest person to him in this world.


    Not only were they living together, but her heart was also with him here.


    Thinking back to their first encounter with this little masochist, the little haughty girl, and then recalling the time they spent relying on each other, with her waiting for him like a little housewife every day, Qiu Tu''s eyes softened a lot.


    He gently wrapped his arms around Shen Lingshuang and asked softly, "How do you like our new home?"


    As expected, when Qiu Tu wasn''t the topic, Shen Lingshuang''s proud character came right back. She tilted her head up slightly and said with a haughty air, "It''s... average."


    She said, "Well, it''s a bit better than Old Alley Street."


    She stretched out her slender index finger and thumb, bringing them so close together that there was barely any gap.


    "Just a tiny bit better..."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang''s adorable manner, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but chuckle.


    He nodded with a smile and teased her, "Alright, alright. Then... how about you move back to Old Alley Street?"


    Upon hearing this, Shen Lingshuang quickly crossed her arms in front of her chest, her face earnest as she said, "There''s no need to trouble Section Chief Lin and the others again."


    "They have it tough enough."


    "Hahaha," laughed Qiu Tu, "Then you''re quite considerate."


    "That I am~~" Shen Lingshuang tilted her head proudly, showing off her two little canine teeth in a grin of self-satisfaction.


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    Before long, both had finished their noodles and were leaning back in their chairs to digest.


    As if struck by a sudden thought, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes sparkled, and she said, "Qiu Tu, wait a second! I''ve made something cool for you the last couple of days!"


    This young girl was also quite impulsive. Without waiting for Qiu Tu''s reaction, she ran up the stairs with quick, light steps.


    While heading upstairs, she didn''t forget to call for Xiao Bai, "Xiao Bai! Help me get something!"


    Upon hearing this, Xiao Bai also followed Shen Lingshuang upstairs with a "Woof, woof." S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching the girl''s youthful figure retreating, Qiu Tu''s eyes twinkled with amusement. He knew she must have crafted a new potion or Cataclysmic prop and wanted to show it off to him.


    This made him involuntarily think about his own gains from the past few days...


    -------


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters haha. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Continuing with 10,000 words a day tomorrow!

 Chapter 232 Inventory of Recent Acquisitions (10,000 Words Seeking Subscriptions!)

    Qiu Tu last took stock of his gains before the fierce battle with Jia Shu.Since that day, more than a week had passed.


    In these seven or eight days, the "cooldown" period for the Salvage Game of several of Qiu Tu''s subordinates with Loyalty over 90 had ended.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu happily used them for salvaging.


    However, it was unclear whether the second salvage was less effective, or if it was because... all the treasures Qiu Tu had previously salvaged came from Jia Shu, Jia Wei, and others, and now that they were finished, there were fewer Cataclysmic treasures in Xinjie City.


    Anyway, out of the five chances to salvage, Qiu Tu succeeded only three times.


    Luckily, the results of the three salvages were good: he obtained two Cataclysmic treasures and one bottle of Cataclysmic Potion.


    Both Cataclysmic treasures related to defense.


    One was the "Trigger Paper Figure" lent to Qiu Tu by Tang Feifei, which Qiu Tu had used.


    This Cataclysmic treasure would automatically trigger and form a defensive layer on the surface of the user''s body when they were under attack.


    The defensive layer could withstand attacks from large-caliber firearms and last for over 30 seconds.


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    It''s a very conventional type of Defensive Relic, produced by the Sanctuary and awarded to mid and high-level officials in the Planning Area as a protection artifact.


    Furthermore, now that Qiu Tu had become a vice minister, the Investigation Bureau would theoretically issue him one too.


    So, Qiu Tu was thinking about giving the one he had salvaged to Shen Lingshuang.


    After all, compared to the fully armed women around Qiu Tu, who were even safer than him, Shen Lingshuang was the poorest and weakest among them.


    Qiu Tu''s recent Crisis Warning included [Revenge of the United Front].


    In the description of this crisis, the United Front would not only attack him but also target his family. So Qiu Tu didn''t want to wait for tragedy to occur before regretting...


    Of course, Qiu Tu''s willingness to part with such an important defense-related Cataclysmic treasure to give to Shen Lingshuang had another important reason.


    That was... the second Cataclysmic treasure he had salvaged: the Gold-Addicted Wallet.


    "Cataclysmic Treasure: Gold-Addicted Wallet"


    "Treasure Introduction: A Cataclysmic treasure made of unidentified materials. As long as enough gold is placed inside, it will automatically trigger to defend when you''re attacked."


    "Theoretically, as long as you have enough gold, it can resist any damage. In practice, it can only withstand attacks up to light artillery."


    "Note: The item can be used multiple times with no cooldown period. However, make sure to deposit enough gold. If you encounter an attack after the gold is depleted, it will self-destruct."


    Upon first receiving this Cataclysmic treasure, Qiu Tu was astounded.


    This treasure was clearly not a standard defense treasure like the "Trigger Paper Figure"; it was a specially made Cataclysmic treasure.


    Not only was its defense much stronger, but it could also be used an infinite number of times¡ªprovided there was enough money.


    So, after getting the treasure, Qiu Tu immediately filled it with several Little Goldfish he carried on him.


    Afterward, he tested the effect of the treasure: he took out a metal dagger issued by the Investigation Bureau and made a tentative cut on his wrist.


    To Qiu Tu''s surprise, the moment the blade broke the skin, a thin layer of gold light suddenly emerged from inside his wrist and gently blocked the blade.


    Qiu Tu tried to continue applying significant force, trying to push the blade down, but no matter how hard he tried, the thin gold light could not be penetrated.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu put down the knife and opened the Gold-Addicted Wallet to check.


    About one-tenth of a Little Goldfish was gone.


    This consumption wasn''t small, but... it was within an acceptable range for Qiu Tu.


    After all, money can be earned again, but one only has one life.


    The greatest tragedy in life is: the person is gone, but the money is still there!


    And it was precisely because he had this defense treasure, far superior to the "Trigger Paper Figure", that Qiu Tu was willing to give the life-saving Cataclysmic treasure to Shen Lingshuang.


    After all... such defense treasures are not in conflict with each other; the more you have, the better, stacking endlessly, no one complains about living too long.


    However, besides these two relatively normal Cataclysmic treasures, the bottle of Cataclysmic Potion that Qiu Tu obtained was somewhat odd and special...


    "Cataclysmic Potion: Pregnancy Potion"


    "Potion Introduction: A type of Cataclysmic Potion made using Moonlight Water, Multiseed Red Beans, and other Cataclysm materials by a ''Mystery'' route Cataclysmic."


    "Potion Effect: Just a drop in water, when consumed, will significantly increase the probability of pregnancy in living beings, greatly increasing the chance of conceiving offspring. If consumed for 10 consecutive days, the next sexual intercourse is bound to result in pregnancy."


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was baffled upon seeing this potion.


    His first question was: who was supposed to drink this potion? S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    From its description, it seemed like it was intended for women, since it could increase the probability of pregnancy.


    But... the potion''s introduction didn''t specify that it was for women only.


    So... at that moment, Qiu Tu had a bold idea: could it be that after consuming this Pregnancy Potion for 10 days straight, the next time he had sex, he could guarantee a woman''s pregnancy at a 100% rate?


    This thought made Qiu Tu, the pervert, feel a bit perverted himself.


    However, he then became curious about who had made this potion and for whom it was intended.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu concluded that in Xinjie City, the only one who was perverted enough and also happened to be associated with ''Reproduction'', was none other than the Heretic Goddess Girl, Larilo.

 Chapter 232 Inventory of Recent Acquisitions (10,000 Words Seeking Subscriptions!)_2

    Previously, Larilo''s followers had created the "Mandragora Love Drug", which was later proven to be used to beguile those section chiefs and directors'' ladies, to tame them.And now she had crafted this "Pregnancy Potion", to be honest, Qiu Tu was really a bit worried.


    He suspected that Larilo was preparing some conspiracy, or had set her sights on some targets....


    Besides the three Cataclysmic treasures obtained from the "Salvage Game", Qiu Tu hadn''t gained much in the past seven or eight days.


    Since Wang Xi was captured, Qiu Tu''s previous authority had not expanded, the loyalty of his subordinates was all very high, and his "Combat Game" had no worthy opponents to take on. So Qiu Tu simply didn''t even play.


    As for the "Crisis Treasure Box", since he hadn''t been through much crisis during this period, only "Jia Shu''s Ambush" brought Qiu Tu a piece of Cataclysmic Material: Shadow Fragments.


    According to the Golden Finger''s introduction, this was considered a somewhat precious Cataclysmic Material, which could be used to craft Cataclysmic Props like the "Whip of Shadows", "Skull Talisman", "Old Seal", etc.


    This actually matched the Cataclysmic Material named "Nameless Stele Powder" that Qiu Tu had obtained last time.


    Qiu Tu pondered handing over this material to Shen Lingshuang, to see what miraculous Cataclysmic treasures this genius Forging Master could create!


    Apart from these rewards obtained from the Golden Finger, Qiu Tu''s biggest gain during this period must be his promotion in position and the enhancement of his Cataclysmic ability.


    The former allowed him to truly have a certain status and influence in the Investigation Bureau, in Xinjie City.


    The latter further enhanced his strength.


    However, what Qiu Tu always found puzzling was that although he was now very powerful, second only to the highest Third Order Cataclysmics among humans.


    But... why did he still feel very weak?


    This feeling of being very weak was not just physical, but also mental.


    He seemed to lack the strong self-confidence of Tang Feifei, and the self-awareness of becoming a supernatural being.


    He always felt like he was missing something....


    He wasn''t sure if it was because he was a late starter, groping alone on the path of Cataclysm, lacking some key factors.


    Therefore, he planned to find Tang Feifei and have a good chat about this matter when he had time in the next two days, to see if there was a problem....


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was taking stock of his gains.


    Footsteps of "tap tap tap" could be heard coming from the staircase of the second floor of the villa.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and looked up, only to see Shen Lingshuang happily bouncing down the stairs with her short little legs.


    Xiao Bai, with its body flattened and widened, almost becoming a thin sheet, was carrying a basketball-sized black statue on its back, following behind Shen Lingshuang, also joyfully running down the stairs.


    Because the potion it drank was imperfect, only one body part of it could enlarge. So, with its big body, short legs, small head, and bent body, it looked extremely comical.


    Qiu Tu watched the pair, the human and the dog, and stood up to greet them. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as Shen Lingshuang ran up to him, she grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand and pointed excitedly at the black statue on Xiao Bai''s back, exclaiming, "Qiu Tu, look! What is this?"


    Qiu Tu held Shen Lingshuang''s hand and tilted his head to scrutinize the black statue on Xiao Bai''s back, struggling to make out what it was.


    But... perhaps Shen Lingshuang''s artistic skills were too sophisticated, for, after looking closely for quite a while, Qiu Tu really couldn''t identify what the statue was supposed to be.


    In his eyes, it was merely a lump made of mud... just mud.


    It was full of the imprints of Shen Lingshuang''s palms, fingerprints, looking just like an octopus. It appeared strange and bizarre and upon closer inspection, it even had a bit of Cthulhu''s horror.


    However, faced with Shen Lingshuang''s pride, Qiu Tu figured the problem was most likely with his own sense of aesthetics.


    So, he looked at Shen Lingshuang and tentatively asked, "Is it... a piece of art?"


    Shen Lingshuang, clearly oblivious to Qiu Tu''s confusion, said excitedly, "The Thinker! This is The Thinker!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took another careful look at the black statue.


    After a long while, he had a moment of realization!


    He couldn''t see it at all....


    But faced with the girl''s labor of love over several days, Qiu Tu definitely wouldn''t bluntly speak the truth.


    So he didn''t hesitate to give a thumbs up to Shen Lingshuang, delivering an ample emotional value, "It really does resemble it!"


    "Lingshuang, you know, you really are quite crafty!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, Shen Lingshuang bashfully "hehe" laughed twice, then said, "Actually... my father always praised me for having an artistic talent since I was a child."


    "He said the clay figures I made looked just as alive."


    Qiu Tu:...


    No worries, your father is an official, what he says makes sense.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also timely steered the conversation back to the main topic. He asked, "So what exactly does this Thinking Sculpture do?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Shen Lingshuang proudly placed her hands on her hips, puffed up her chest, and proudly declared, "This, sir, is the first Cataclysmic treasure crafted by yours truly: The Thinking Statue!"


    "The Thinking Statue...?"


    Muttering the name, Qiu Tu''s confused expression slowly turned to realization.


    He remembered.


    He had seen Shen Lingshuang fixing the workshop last time, preparing to create Cataclysmic treasures, so he casually handed over the Cataclysmic material he had obtained before: Behemoth Ashes and Memory Clay, all to Shen Lingshuang (Chapter 182).


    And according to Golden Finger''s description of these two Cataclysmic materials, they were just the right materials to create the Cataclysmic treasure "The Thinking Statue."


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    Originally, Qiu Tu didn''t hold much expectation of Shen Lingshuang successfully crafting this treasure; he simply wanted to find something for Shen Lingshuang to do.


    However, he hadn''t expected that within just a few short days, Shen Lingshuang really managed to tinker it together!


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu looked at Shen Lingshuang with a bit of surprise in his eyes.


    The surprised look in Qiu Tu''s eyes was evidently quite pleasing to Shen Lingshuang.


    She carefully moved the "The Thinking Statue" off Xiao Bai''s back, then held it in her arms, and introduced it to Qiu Tu, "Don''t mind the uglier appearance of this Cataclysmic treasure I''ve made. But... I guarantee it! Its abilities and effects are flawless!"


    As she spoke, Shen Lingshuang proudly claimed, "This Cataclysmic treasure can significantly enhance the user''s thinking speed, memory, and various other capacities."


    "It can not only help the user more easily analyze problems, make decisions, but also assist in rapidly learning knowledge and skills."


    Shen Lingshuang said seriously, "So this treasure can truly be called a cheating device."


    With a reminiscent look in her eyes, she continued, "In the Third Sanctuary, many powerful and influential people used it to quickly learn certain skills, or acquire certain knowledge, often with twice the results for half the effort."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu''s interest was piqued, and then he asked, "Then if I want to learn some martial arts, would it be effective?"


    Shen Lingshuang puffed out her petite chest with certainty, "Of course!"


    "As long as it''s related to learning and thinking, it will have remarkable effects."


    Saying this, Shen Lingshuang, seemingly worried that Qiu Tu wouldn''t believe her, further exemplified, "Actually... I''ve used this Cataclysmic treasure back in the Third Sanctuary."


    She declared, "My pharmacology skills, potion-making skill, and the ability to create Cataclysmic treasures were all learned with its help!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, to tell the truth, Qiu Tu felt like a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head at that moment.


    Were Shen Lingshuang''s unreliable potion-making and treasure-crafting skills learned through "The Thinking Sculpture"?


    Why did Qiu Tu suddenly feel like this treasure was unreliable?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu coughed, concealing his emotions for a moment, then inquired, "Then... does this treasure have any side effects?"


    ---------


    It''s still 10,000 words per three chapters, haha. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 233 Show Off in Front of Shen Lingshuang (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang also calmed down immediately.She looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "This prop does have some side effects."


    Qiu Tu tentatively asked, "Is it that the things learned will be incredibly bizarre?"


    Shen Lingshuang: ???


    She always felt that Qiu Tu seemed to be making an implication, but she had no evidence to confirm it.


    Therefore, she pouted suspiciously and glanced at Qiu Tu. After not seeing through any flaws, she dismissed the thought and then said, "It''s not that what''s learned is bizarre. Rather... it requires a large amount of spiritual power."


    Shen Lingshuang raised a finger to her face and gave an example, "Although these learning-type props can greatly shorten the time needed to learn, they do so by increasing ''Brain Speed,'' enhancing brain activity so that one''s learning ability doubles."


    "This leads to a huge consumption of spiritual power in a short period of time."


    "Generally, only Second-Order Cataclysmics and above can afford such a massive cost."


    "Of course, if there are a large number of potions or props that can replenish spiritual power, ordinary people or Cataclysmics can also use it."


    "I relied on drinking potions to use this treasure initially."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang was somewhat vexed. She spread her hands and said, "So... you might have to wait for a while before you can use this Cataclysmic treasure."


    Upon hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, a strange expression immediately appeared on Qiu Tu''s face.


    He glanced at the unassuming dark statue, then at Shen Lingshuang''s disappointed face, coughed softly, and then slowly said, "Um... how do you know I''ve become a Second-Order Cataclysmic?"


    Shen Lingshuang, who was a bit vexed just a moment ago, first froze upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words. Then her eyes widened dramatically, and she looked up at Qiu Tu in shock, as if trying to read any sign of a lie on his face.


    But Qiu Tu was telling the truth, so his gaze was direct, without even a hint of wavering.


    After quietly watching each other for two or three seconds, Shen Lingshuang finally believed it!


    She said in shock, "You really became a Second-Order Cataclysmic?!"


    Qiu Tu first smiled and nodded his head.


    Then he reached into his pocket, pulled out the empty Crystal Bottle that he had just given Qin Shuman to drink from, and said, "Additionally... how do you know I have more Cataclysmic treasures that can replenish spiritual power?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but look down at the bottle in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    The exquisitely crafted Crystal Bottle didn''t look as odd and bizarre as the treasures she had made.


    Therefore, with just one glance, relying on the Cataclysmic treasures encyclopedia imprinted in her brain by the ''Thinking Statue,'' Shen Lingshuang accurately identified the Cataclysmic treasure before her: the Nightmare Crystal Vial.


    A Cataclysmic prop that could be reused to replenish spiritual power.


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu again, surprised.


    What met her gaze was Qiu Tu''s smiling expression.


    Shen Lingshuang stared blankly at Qiu Tu for a while, then said with a strange look, "Qiu Tu... you really do have a lot of secrets."


    Having said that, she paused for a moment and then added, "Last time, I learned you got promoted so quickly and suspected you sold your body to a superior."


    "Now, I suspect you sold your body to the Evil God."


    "After all, aside from an Evil God, how could a person''s strength increase so fast, and how could they have so many Cataclysmic treasures."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Truth be told, Qiu Tu felt that Shen Lingshuang really took the wrong path in studying pharmacology; she should have become a fortune teller or a charlatan!


    After all... although her reasoning was always wrong, the outcomes were alarmingly accurate.


    Thinking about his chastity that Larilo kept eyeing, and the beautiful women constantly presenting themselves, Qiu Tu felt his willpower might not hold out for much longer.


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Shen Lingshuang took the Nightmare Crystal Vial from his hand.


    As she examined it carefully, she expressed with a cute sense of wonder, "You know... Cataclysmic Items and Cataclysmic Potions aren''t common things you find everywhere."


    "Even in the Sanctuary, they are more commonly found in the hands of the upper-middle hierarchy."


    "As for the lower hierarchy, or the Planning Area, that would be even rarer."


    "It would be somewhat more common only in the hands of the Evil God."


    The crisp sound of Shen Lingshuang''s voice was full of girlishness, akin to a warbler, making it particularly pleasant to hear.


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and then asked, "Why would the Evil God have more?"


    Shen Lingshuang bared her little canines, grinning and said, "Are you dumb?"


    "Of course, it''s because there''s an abundance of Cataclysmic Material in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "The formation of a piece of Cataclysmic Material is definitely influenced by the baptism of Cataclysmic Power, or it comes from the body of a Cataclysmic Creature."


    "Where in the real world would there be so much high-purity Cataclysmic Power, and where would there be so many Cataclysmic Creatures."


    "In comparison, the Boundless Heart Sea has plenty."


    "Thus, some Third-Order and above Cataclysmics take time every year to go to the Boundless Heart Sea to collect Cataclysmic Material for crafting Cataclysmic treasures."


    "From this, you can see how precious Cataclysmic Material and Cataclysmic treasures are, right?"


    Upon hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu nodded in agreement.


    No wonder he felt the people in the Planning Area rarely used Cataclysmic treasures, only he and the Evil God Cultists used them more frequently. So that was the reason.


    And so, as he chatted with Shen Lingshuang about the secrets of Cataclysmics and Cataclysmic Material, Qiu Tu freshened up and then went back to the bedroom to sleep with Shen Lingshuang. Continue your journey with My Virtual Library Empire


    Before moving to the new house, the little girl had expressed a desire for her own room, not wanting to sleep with Qiu Tu anymore.


    However, after moving into the new house and Qiu Tu had finished washing up and lay in bed, she was the first to burrow into Qiu Tu''s covers.


    As for the second, um¡­ it was Xiao Bai.


    Following Shen Lingshuang, it climbed up the bed and was then kicked off by Qiu Tu.


    Angered into a fit of rage, it barked several times at Qiu Tu and, with an almost human-like worried glance at Shen Lingshuang, it finally whimpered out of the bedroom to sulk alone.


    Seeing Xiao Bai''s human-like expressions and actions, Qiu Tu, who was holding Shen Lingshuang, curiously asked, "When I''m not at home, do you usually sleep with Xiao Bai?"


    Leaning on Qiu Tu''s chest, Shen Lingshuang chuckled and replied, "Not really."


    "Xiao Bai is quite independent. She doesn''t even want to be hugged by me."


    "She probably came up today because she was afraid you''d do something bad, so she followed."


    After saying that, Shen Lingshuang added, "Xiao Bai is my good sister. She might be grateful that I gave her those strange abilities and spiritual wisdom. She''s always protective of me."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Indeed, a dog''s way of thinking is hard to understand.


    If someone had force-fed Qiu Tu those bizarre potions and Qiu Tu had gained the ability to resist, he definitely would have bitten the person to death at the first opportunity.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also stroked Shen Lingshuang''s budding beauty and asked, "So, is Xiao Bai a female dog?"


    Shen Lingshuang was annoyed, "She''s my good sister! Not a female dog!"


    Qiu Tu, "Okay, okay. Good sister, good sister."


    In this manner, the two bickered and talked, gradually drifting into their first night''s sleep in the new home.


    Of course, Qiu Tu didn''t forget about today''s "Loyalty Game" before falling asleep.


    Although... the "Salvage Game" had no more subordinates to use. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But the "Fighting Game" now had a new target to conquer¡ªTan Huimin!


    As a subordinate with a loyalty in the single digits, who also harbored many secrets, Qiu Tu certainly wouldn''t miss the opportunity to use the "Loyalty Game" on her.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu unhesitatingly sent Shen Lingshuang out to attack Tan Huimin.


    To Qiu Tu''s amazement, this "Fighting Game" turned out to be very intelligent.


    Upon starting the game, Shen Lingshuang''s pixelated figure was holding a big wooden mallet, with Xiao Bai following at her feet.


    She might not be good at fighting and dared not go forward herself, so she timidly hid behind, pointing at Tan Huimin, letting Xiao Bai go forward to bite.


    By contrast, Tan Huimin clearly wasn''t adept at fighting either. She ran all over the screen frantically as she was bitten by Xiao Bai, whose head had been enlarged in the game.


    ''Tsk, this is somewhat interesting....''


    While reflecting on this, Qiu Tu also drifted into deep sleep....


    .....


    [Threat in the Darkness (22 hours)]


    [Promise to the Evil God (2.5 days)]


    [Revenge of the United Front (3.5 days)]


    .....


    A quiet night¡­


    The next day, Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang made a cozy breakfast together, which they ate. Then he gave Shen Lingshuang the "Trigger Paper Figure" he had prepared the day before and drove off to work.


    Having received the "Trigger Paper Figure," Shen Lingshuang''s eyes welled up with tears, moved to tears at the breakfast table.


    It was Qiu Tu who kissed away the tears in her eyes and playfully kissed a bit lower, making the girl laugh and stop crying.


    Afterward, he drove to the Investigation Bureau''s parking lot.


    Parking the car and stepping out, Qiu Tu leaned against the car and silently smoked a cigarette, gazing at the parking lot, feeling a bit of loss¡ªLiu Fuping always liked intercepting him in the parking lot whenever she wanted to discuss something with him.


    So every time after parking, he couldn''t help but wait a bit to see if Liu Fuping would come to find him.


    The habit had now been formed, but the charming person was no longer there, leaving only her voice and smile to make Qiu Tu feel a little nostalgic.


    However, fortunately¡­ in half a month, Dongye State would be established, and by then, Qiu Tu might see her again.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu sighed softly, stamped out the cigarette butt, and then headed towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Taking the elevator up to the 9th floor, he arrived at his deputy director''s office.


    Opening the door, Tan Huimin was already inside, currently bending her knees slightly, sticking out her butt while cleaning the office for Qiu Tu.


    Her already voluptuous figure was outlined by the tight-fitting black pencil skirt, presenting a perfect curve of her buttocks in front of Qiu Tu.


    Witnessing the visually impactful scene, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then quietly closed the office door....


    -------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words. I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 234 Disciplining Tan Huimin (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Perhaps because Qiu Tu''s movement was really subtle, Tan Huimin clearly didn''t hear the door close.She was still standing there with her back to Qiu Tu, her buttocks pouted, holding a white cloth and diligently wiping the legs of Qiu Tu''s desk.


    She was meticulous in her work, wiping with dedication. Qiu Tu watched with equal attention.


    Perhaps because of the nourishment from a man, or possibly because she was at the prime age for a woman, Tan Huimin exuded the voluptuous beauty of a mature woman. That ripe allure added an extra charm to her already beautiful profile.


    And whether it was her own idea, or under the direction of Zheng Tao or Larilo, despite the fact that there had been some conflict and intimacy between her and Qiu Tu the day before,


    today she still wore a tight-fitting professional outfit: a white, semi-transparent blouse, a black pencil skirt that hugged her buttocks, stockings, and high heels.


    Paired with her exquisite curves and her current squatting posture...


    Qiu Tu always felt as though he could see Larilo''s smug smile from her throne above.


    It was as if she was tempting Qiu Tu to degenerate: Come on~ Come on~ Enjoy yourself~


    But who was Qiu Tu?


    He was a man of iron, a paragon of virtue who remained untroubled in the face of temptation!


    Besides, wasn''t every woman beside him far better than Tan Huimin?!


    Plus, Qin Shuman had reminded him just last night.


    So, of course!


    He still couldn''t resist...


    He quietly walked up to her and then smacked Tan Huimin''s buttocks heavily!


    A crisp "Slap!" echoed unusually piercingly in the silent office!


    Tan Huimin was clearly startled, she covered her buttocks, shrieked, and tried to dodge away.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu abruptly pressed down on Tan Huimin''s waist.


    Simultaneously, Qiu Tu''s deep, magnetic voice also resounded in her ear, "Madam... Don''t move. It''s me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin paused for a moment, then found it slightly amusing!


    Qiu Tu wasn''t her husband, so why should she stay still just because he said so! What right did he have to order her around? S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, she tried even more fiercely to stand up.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu suddenly spoke up again to remind her, "The tape recorder."


    At that instant, Tan Huimin''s movement abruptly ceased.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu kept one hand on Tan Huimin''s waist and gently caressed her upturned buttocks with the other, continuing to remind her, "The surveillance video."


    Tan Huimin''s body started to tremble slightly, daring not to move a muscle.


    Seeing that he had successfully subdued Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, then sat on his desk, still lightly patting her voluptuous buttocks a few times, and then remarked, "Madam, you tell me... Why provoke me."


    "Is it now a situation of ''riding the tiger and finding it hard to get off'', very awkward for you?"


    Tan Huimin was still bent over with her buttocks raised, not daring to move; her face flushed red, she lightly bit her lip, and her fair oval face was filled with grievances. Her big eyes reddened slightly, looking as though she was holding back tears.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, his hand still grasping her full buttocks, and his mouth not missing the chance to attack her mental defenses, "Did you pick out today''s outfit yourself? Or was it your husband Zheng Tao''s choice?"


    Tan Huimin replied in humiliation, "My husband."


    Qiu Tu "tsked" and said thoughtfully, "He has quite the special preference. It seems like he deliberately sent you my way."


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin straightened her back, glared at Qiu Tu, and retorted, "That''s not true! He¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Qiu Tu slapped her buttocks hard again!


    Another crisp "smack!"


    Accompanied by Qiu Tu''s low command, "Bend over. The tape recorder!"


    Tan Huimin''s body shuddered, then with her face full of shame, she looked at Qiu Tu and slowly bent down again...


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue his antics afterward and simply leaned on the desk, quietly admiring Tan Huimin''s bent posture.


    The heavy allure succumbed to the force of gravity, shaping exquisitely.


    Add to that the sense of conquest brought on by her status as the wife of a political enemy, to be honest, Qiu Tu had to admit... Larilo had a knack for temptation.


    She had precisely targeted Qiu Tu''s weakness.


    Even... Qiu Tu felt that this could be considered a bold stratagem of the new era: Personally, he supposed that even if he knew it might be a trap, but... he still wanted to jump in to taste it.


    Of course... What made Qiu Tu stronger than those blinded by desire was his self-control.


    He knew certain traps were worth jumping into, but... one must always be prepared for protection.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu leaned on the desk with one leg on the ground, the other resting on Tan Huimin''s back, using her as a prop.


    Then he lit a cigarette, quietly smoking, while looking down at Tan Huimin from above, softly saying, "Madam, actually, I''m quite interested in the marital life between you and Director Zheng."


    Tan Huimin kept her head low, her hands on the desk to distribute the weight of Qiu Tu''s leg, wanting to speak, but finding herself completely unable to say a word.


    Qiu Tu observed her reaction but didn''t seem to care, continuing with his topic, "I''ve heard... that you and Director Zheng have been married for three or four years now, but you haven''t had any children?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin suddenly startled, then incredulously lifted her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Don''t be so surprised."


    "Do you think it''s difficult for me, as the deputy head of the Political Department, the person in charge of intelligence, to investigate you?"


    This reason obviously intimidated Tan Huimin.


    So after hesitating for a moment, she then spoke softly, "Yes. These past two years have been a boom period for Ah-Tao''s career, so we haven''t been planning for children."


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu sneered, as if mocking Tan Huimin''s intelligence, and then he countered, "Is that so?"


    "Then... why is the intelligence I''ve received not the same?"


    Qiu Tu continued, "The intelligence I''ve gathered suggests that you''ve always wanted children, but have been unable to conceive."


    "Moreover, you both underwent many examinations during your time at the Sanctuary. Both your and Director Zheng''s health was without issue."


    "It has almost become a source of heartache for you both."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, still bending over, looked up at Qiu Tu in astonishment.


    Clearly, she had not expected Qiu Tu to have investigated so thoroughly.


    In that moment, she even began to wonder if she had underestimated the power of the Political Department''s Intelligence Section:


    Could the Political Department''s Intelligence Section really have investigated the secrets between she and her husband at the Sanctuary so thoroughly in just one night?


    Is the efficiency of the Political Department''s intelligence agency really so high now?


    Thinking this, Tan Huimin felt something was off.


    But then... Ah-Tao used to work with the Political Department too, and he was well acquainted with the head of the intelligence agency. She had never heard him praise the intelligence department.


    In fact, Tan Huimin remembered that Zheng Tao often came home and cursed Section Chief Wang of the intelligence agency, calling him useless, accusing him of botching the intelligence work, and being more trouble than he was worth!


    So how come everything changed the moment Qiu Tu took over?


    Though surprised, Tan Huimin clamped her mouth shut and didn''t let on.


    She braced her hands against the desk, leaning over with a forced smile, "You''re joking, sir. We never wanted children."


    Qiu Tu nodded indifferently and then teased, "Then who''s the one who cries in Director Zheng''s arms every night, lamenting her grievances?"


    At his words, Tan Huimin''s body visibly shook.


    Then she heard Qiu Tu continue, "Tell me, whenever you''ve cried in Chief Zheng''s arms, didn''t you feel something was off?"


    "You were clearly so miserable, so anxious. But why did Chief Zheng seem merely morose and impatient, as if he didn''t care much about the matter?"


    Qiu Tu''s voice was like the devil''s whisper,


    "Have you ever considered... he might very well know the real reason why you have no children?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words trying to sow discord between her and her husband Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin suddenly rose, intending to stand up and argue with Qiu Tu.


    But she was an ordinary woman, and against someone like Qiu Tu, a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened whose body had been enhanced twice, she was severely outmatched!


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    Therefore, with just a slight exertion of his leg, Qiu Tu was able to press her waist down again.


    Perhaps because he used too much force, Tan Huimin even yelped in pain, her knees giving way and dropping to the ground.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu withdrew his leg and simply sat half atop the desk, looking down high and mighty at Tan Huimin, who was kneeling between his legs.


    Tan Huimin''s eyes reddened slightly as she rubbed her sore knees, then she looked up at Qiu Tu with a face full of rage, like an unbroken, fiery mare.


    At this, Qiu Tu just took a puff of his cigarette, then laughed as he lowered his head to blow smoke in her face.


    Tan Huimin, caught off guard by Qiu Tu''s sneak attack, wrinkled her brows and closed her eyes as she coughed ceaselessly, clutching her heavy heart.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu felt the thrill of a successful prank. He leaned back, laughed heartily a couple of times, and then shook his head, "Madam, you know better than anyone whether what I''m saying is true or not."


    "Moreover, if I''m not mistaken, you''ve had these suspicions for a while now, haven''t you?"


    Qiu Tu asked incisively, "You noticed early on that your husband wasn''t particularly enthusiastic about having children with you, didn''t you?"


    "And you also noticed how perfunctory he was each time you went for checks together, completely devoid of any concern or surprise."


    "Upon receiving the report, he seemed as though he already knew the outcome, skimming through it then casually discarding it."


    "Add to that the change in his attitude towards you before and after your wedding."


    "From cherishing you like a treasure at the beginning, to becoming increasingly busy, then to often working late and not coming home...."


    "And up to his recent trip to Xinjie City, when he didn''t even want to bring you."


    "You felt his weariness and coldness towards you."


    "That''s why you sensed something was amiss and chased him to Xinjie City, hoping to win back his heart."


    -----

 Chapter 235 Shattering Tan Huimins Psychological Defenses (10,000 words to request subscription)

    "It''s precisely because he didn''t take you with him, and you followed him to Xinjie City on your own, that you weren''t accompanying him as a wife should,""forcing him to use his connections to hide your identity and create a completely new household registration for you, placing you within the Investigation Bureau."


    "Afterward, it was still you, wanting to be by his side for a longer period of time."


    "When he was choosing his new secretary, you demanded that he choose you."


    "This only made his attitude towards you worse, even more impatient."


    "It was your relentless pursuit that caused him to step back further and further."


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    "You''re like someone clutching a handful of sand; the tighter you grip, the faster the sand slips away!"


    "And so, you''ve remained in this state of contradiction and entanglement until now. You want to cling to him, while he... is trying every possible way to rid himself of you, to abandon you. He''s even willing to cuck himself, pushing you towards me."


    "In order to please me successfully, he even made you wear clothes that show off your figure, sparking men''s desires!"


    "Don''t you think, the relationship between you and your husband is extremely abnormal, distorted?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, each one a stab to the heart, Tan Huimin almost went mad!


    She covered her ears, closed her eyes, and deluded herself by shouting, "No! That''s not true!"


    "You''re lying! Lying!"


    "The information you just gave is fake! Everything you inferred after that is also fake!"


    Seeing her breakdown, Qiu Tu smiled brilliantly and said, "Whether I''m lying or not, you know in your heart."


    "Madam... you can deceive me. But can you truly deceive your own heart?" S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason Qiu Tu was so certain about his information and inferences wasn''t because the Political Department''s intelligence work was really that strong.


    No matter how capable the Political Department''s intelligence work was, Qiu Tu still hadn''t taken charge of it as of yesterday.


    Besides, even if the Political Department''s intelligence capabilities were exaggeratedly strong, they couldn''t possibly be lurking at Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin''s bedside, eavesdropping on a couple''s private conversations or stealing a peek into their inner thoughts, right...?


    However... what the Political Department couldn''t do, Qiu Tu could.


    He was the table lamp during Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin''s bedroom conversations...


    Ah, no, he was "Tan Huimin" herself.


    This morning, when Qiu Tu woke up from bed, the first thing he did was to check the outcome of the "Loyalty Game."


    As he expected, with Xiao Bai''s help, Shen Lingshuang easily defeated Tan Huimin: not only did she beat Tan Huimin until her head was covered in lumps, but she also held onto Tan Huimin''s big secret like a research project...


    And due to her victory, Qiu Tu received the victor''s reward: a medium-sized memory fragment without any Loyalty bonuses.


    Since Shen Lingshuang was still asleep at the time, after hesitating for a moment, Qiu Tu decided to take the chance to look into the information enclosed within that memory fragment.


    Qiu Tu initially thought that it would contain Tan Huimin''s most recent memories, much like Wang Xi''s.


    He even hoped that the memory would contain specific information about that high-level spy to verify whether his guess was correct.


    Surprisingly, what he didn''t expect was that the memory fragment would show a scene of Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao at their home in the Sanctuary.


    In the memory, Tan Huimin cried nonstop in Zheng Tao''s embrace, but although Zheng Tao held her, he smoked sullenly with a hint of impatience on his face.


    From the couple''s dialogue and conversation, Qiu Tu learned the reason for the heavy atmosphere between them:


    For years they had been hoping to have a child, but... they had always been unsuccessful. Tan Huimin had constantly dragged Zheng Tao to the Sanctuary''s hospital for examinations.


    But no matter the examination, the results for both of them were remarkably normal, showing no problems whatsoever.


    Moreover, given that both were at the optimal age for conception, theoretically, there shouldn''t have been any issues. Thus, even the doctors at the Sanctuary found it strange and couldn''t understand why.


    If it had ended there, Qiu Tu at most would have garnered a piece of gossip of little value.


    However, something Qiu Tu didn''t expect happened.


    While the memory fragment had few scenes and dialogues, mostly just Tan Huimin''s crying, and Zheng Tao''s smoking, Tan Huimin''s internal monologue was incredibly rich.


    From Tan Huimin''s thoughts, Qiu Tu gleaned more interesting details.


    That is... although both seemed to want children on the surface, compared to Tan Huimin, Zheng Tao was clearly less committed, almost perfunctory.


    When Tan Huimin curiously questioned whether Zheng Tao truly wanted children, he said he did.


    Additionally, every time they went for an examination, while Tan Huimin anxiously awaited the report, Zheng Tao seemed unconcerned as if he knew the outcome, merely staring into space.


    After enough of these occurrences, Tan Huimin naturally suspected that Zheng Tao probably knew something about their inability to conceive, something he wasn''t telling her...


    So Tan Huimin became more and more paranoid, wanting to cling tighter to Zheng Tao.


    In this situation, with secrets already burdening his heart, Zheng Tao, sensing his wife''s relentless pursuit, became even more eager to escape.


    And so, with one fleeing and the other chasing, their relationship grew increasingly distant.


    Through Tan Huimin''s internal monologue, combined with the couple''s unusual status in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu quickly deduced their current emotional state, their contradictory and tangled predicament.

 Chapter 235 Shattering Tan Huimins Psychological Defenses (10,000 words to request subscription)_2

    And these matters, because they involved the most private secrets of both husband and wife, the most shameful of topics, Tan Huimin had never spoken of them to anyone. Only she herself, and Zheng Tao knew.Therefore, when Qiu Tu directly confronted her with what she was thinking, laying bare the whole sequence of events, her entire being collapsed.


    After all, some of the darkest suspicions in one''s heart, the most private secrets, are actually... even unacceptable to oneself.


    And Qiu Tu''s strong-arm approach had almost instantaneously received a corresponding response:


    [Tan Huimin loyalty -3, current loyalty 3 points]


    Looking at the prompt that appeared in front of him, Qiu Tu smiled slightly but didn''t care in the slightest.


    After all, from the day he met Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu knew that although the woman in front of him seemed fragile, in her heart she had her own convictions.


    Like an untamed wild horse, not easily conquered.


    And this morning, after seeing Shen Lingshuang defeat Tan Huimin, without increasing any loyalty points, Qiu Tu knew that winning over Tan Huimin obviously couldn''t start with "loyalty" or "favorability".


    It happened to be that Qiu Tu had no interest in conquering a woman who possibly had been trained by Larilo. So he decisively changed his approach towards Tan Huimin!


    Now, his goal was only to conquer, crush, and shatter this woman''s heart, to grasp the connections between this woman, Zheng Tao, and Larilo.


    After all... facing intimate colleagues and subordinates, he could conquer them bit by bit, but with enemies, he didn''t have that much patience.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu extinguished the cigarette butt in the ashtray, then continued his psychological onslaught, "Madam, do you often ask yourself in the dead of night, could all this have been caused by you?"


    "Perhaps, if you hadn''t pushed Director Zheng so hard, hadn''t made him so tired and worn out, he wouldn''t have become increasingly cold and impatient with you?"


    "If you hadn''t stubbornly insisted on being his secretary, perhaps he wouldn''t have sent you my way, effectively cuckold himself?"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s whispers, one after another, Tan Huimin at this point had completely broken down. She covered her ears and wept, saying, "Stop talking, please stop, I beg you! I beg you!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew that the time was right.


    He jumped down from the table, then crouched in front of Tan Huimin and gently lifted her tear-stained but still beautiful oval face, suddenly changing the subject, "But Madam... if I told you that none of this is actually your fault, would you believe me?"


    Possibly because since the moment he came in, Qiu Tu had been pressing Tan Huimin and continually manipulating her.


    Tan Huimin had completely fallen into a state of self-doubt and collapse. Now as Qiu Tu suddenly reversed everything, her whole mind was blank.


    "Ah?" she looked up at Qiu Tu with teary eyes, her vision blurred by tears.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu took out a handkerchief from his pocket and gently wiped her tear-stained face.


    Afterward, he handed it to her to blow her nose.


    Giving Tan Huimin this brief respite, Qiu Tu then put his arm around her shoulders, changing his tone to that of an understanding man, and slowly began to speak, "Madam, I think that now you''ve fallen into a self-fulfilling trap." Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You think that you and Director Zheng have reached this point because of your constant pressure, because you cannot bear him a child."


    His words were like those of a devil, whispering low, "But you forgot... the starting point of this all is the secret he''s hiding."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu helped the still somewhat dazed Tan Huimin stand up, then half-embraced her, speaking softly as he analyzed for her, "If... I say if."


    "The reason the two of you can''t have children is actually caused by Director Zheng, then?"


    "Wouldn''t you suddenly find that the whole situation seems different?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin paused, clearly not understanding his meaning. So with a sniffle, she said, "But... we''ve had tests, he''s fine."


    Qiu Tu chuckled and looked down at the beautiful woman in his arms.


    The result might have been because she had just been crying and tearing up, which caused her collar button to come off, revealing to Qiu Tu a profound and enticing cleavage.


    That full, round luster compelled immediate attention.


    Qiu Tu reached out, taking the opportunity to stroke Tan Huimin''s cheek, and subtly propped it up.


    Hmm, weighty and soft, definitely authentic.


    Qiu Tu reined in his wandering thoughts and then spoke up, "It''s just that the physical examination doesn''t show any problems. Have you ever considered that the problem might not lie with the body, but with the soul?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin was stunned for a moment, clearly not understanding his meaning at all.


    As Qiu Tu''s hand continued to explore the bountiful area in front of Tan Huimin''s chest, he explained, "For instance... he could have made a deal with an Evil God. He, or your fertility, could have been castrated."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu stared intently at Tan Huimin''s expression.


    And within his gaze, Tan Huimin suddenly gasped, her body trembling involuntarily, and then exclaimed in surprise, "Make a deal with an Evil God? Castrated fertility?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, like a devil whispering, "Yes."


    "If there is no problem with either of your bodies, then this is the only explanation left, isn''t it?"


    "If there''s no issue on the scientific side, then the problem must lie on the mystical side."


    Qiu Tu''s idea wasn''t pulled out of thin air.


    After discovering the root of the conflict between Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao this morning, Qiu Tu immediately connected it with the "Pregnancy Potion."


    He had initially thought that the "Pregnancy Potion" was similar to some modern medicinal hormones, designed to help increase the activity or production of certain cells.


    But when he found that Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin were healthy with no physical examination issues, yet had been unable to conceive for many years, he sensed something was off.


    So, during breakfast, he specifically discussed this topic with Shen Lingshuang.


    It has to be said, Shen Lingshuang really could be considered an encyclopedia, knowledgeable about everything.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, the Sanctuary had already researched this issue for many years.


    A being living in the real world is actually composed of both body and soul. Therefore, the birth of a being also requires the nurturing of both the body and soul.


    Through the Sanctuary''s research, it is generally believed that a living being''s body is formed by the pairing of parents'' genes, while the soul is the result of a spiritual interaction between the parents'' souls.


    And what''s more miraculous is... the soul is usually formed before the body.


    That is to say, for the birth of a life, the souls of the parents must first spiritually interact to birth a new, frail soul, which is followed by the parents'' genetic material immediately nurturing a fertilized egg to "store" that frail soul and to further develop.


    Therefore, if a being''s ability to procreate is castrated from a spiritual or soulful perspective, then even with a completely normal body, they are unable to produce offspring.


    After learning such a secret from Shen Lingshuang''s lips, Qiu Tu was truly taken aback, and it also gave him a deeper understanding of the "Pregnancy Potion."


    He speculated: Perhaps the primary effect of the "Pregnancy Potion" wasn''t on the body but on the spirit and soul.


    It made the souls and spirits of two people more likely to resonate, to give birth to a new soul, and then to have both bodies nurture an "embryo," giving life to a new existence.


    Thus, following this train of thought, Qiu Tu also inquired with curiosity why the Sanctuary would research in such a direction.


    It was then that he learned an earth-shattering secret from Shen Lingshuang.


    -------

 Chapter 236 Confronting Secretary Bai (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    According to Shen Lingshuang, Sanctuary didn''t actually intend to research the direction of life prolongation; it was all a twist of fate.Qiu Tu had already learned that First-Order Cataclysmics would enhance their bodies, while Second-Order Cataclysmics would reshape their bodies.


    What he didn''t know was that Third Order Cataclysmics could detach from their bodies and exist in both the real world and the Boundless Heart Sea in the form of a spiritual entity.


    It was in such a state that some more open-minded Third Order Cataclysmics had once engaged in relations in the form of their spiritual entities.


    At first, those two Third Order Cataclysmics thought it was interesting, and since they wouldn''t get pregnant, they went ahead with it.


    But who would have expected... not long after returning to their bodies, the female Third Order Cataclysmic was surprised to discover that she was pregnant.


    And it was... her body wasn''t pregnant, but her soul was.


    This statement might seem counterintuitive and against common sense: how can a soul get pregnant?


    Actually... because Third Order Cataclysmics have sufficiently strong spirits, their souls already have a fixed shape, not much different from their bodies.


    It was the female Third Order Cataclysmic who noticed her soul''s belly swelling, beginning to nurture new life, while her physical body showed no response at all, as though everything were false.


    This discovery left her both shocked and scared, so she reported it to Sanctuary overnight.


    Sanctuary had always been researching the secrets of the Boundless Heart Sea and spiritual entities. So, when they discovered her miraculous case, they immediately started their research.


    And it was through this research that Sanctuary was able to uncover the essence of life''s birth in the Era of Disaster¡ªsouls are born before bodies, which then are entrusted into bodies, and finally born into the material world.


    If a new life lacks a body and only has a soul, that doesn''t matter.


    It will grow strong enough within the soul of its mother, and then it will be born!


    And this time is likely not the typical ten months of pregnancy but could be three years, five years, or even ten years.


    Moreover, because it lacks a body, it cannot be born into the real world but is destined to be born in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Becoming a natural-born Cataclysmic¡ªor rather... a Cataclysmic Creature.


    It was from Shen Lingshuang''s mouth that Qiu Tu learned of this astonishing information, and he boldly guessed the past events involving Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin, and Larilo.


    He speculated that Zheng Tao, the Evil God Cultist, likely traded something with Larilo and, in return, gave up his or Tan Huimin''s reproductive capability.


    Thus, for years, despite being perfectly healthy, the couple was unable to have children.


    And it was because Zheng Tao knew the truth that he wasn''t enthusiastic about having children. But since he couldn''t openly discuss the trade, he was forced to accompany Tan Huimin to various medical checks.


    It was this pressure of keeping a secret combined with the weariness of fruitless effort that made him increasingly impatient and cold towards Tan Huimin.


    That''s why he preferred to come alone to Xinjie City and... eventually agreed to send Tan Huimin to Qiu Tu....


    Of course, all of the above were guesses Qiu Tu made after reading Tan Huimin''s memory fragments and learning the secrets of birth in the Era of Disaster from Shen Lingshuang. They couldn''t be guaranteed to be one hundred percent true.


    But... he didn''t care whether his speculation was correct or not. He only intended to sow discord between Tan Huimin and her husband, then open a new channel of intelligence through her, right?


    So, as long as the logic was sound and Tan Huimin believed it, wouldn''t that be enough?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu let go of his moral baseline. Then he slowly presented his entire line of reasoning to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin clearly didn''t quite understand the information conveyed by Qiu Tu. Coupled with her limited trust in him, she listened with skepticism.


    It wasn''t until the end that she asked Qiu Tu with some suspicion, "So, what you mean is... my husband made a trade with the Evil God and gave up my fertility to him?"


    Qiu Tu gently caressed Tan Huimin''s substantial chest, shaking his head, "Not necessarily yours. It could be his."


    "But... it''s definitely one of you two."


    Tan Huimin was visibly stunned.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu didn''t bother her further. He knew Tan Huimin needed time to think and verify the information he had given.


    So, he let go of his hands that had been holding and touching Tan Huimin and prepared to start his work for the day.


    After returning to his desk, he sat down, picked up the telephone, and called Song Qing.


    He asked her to replace Tan Huimin at the Intelligence Section, Interrogation Section, and the Inspection Department, to inform the department heads to summarize their work intel from the last six months, and deliver it to the office before next week. He wanted to review it.


    As for... Tan Huimin. With her mind shaken to this extent, she probably wouldn''t be able to snap back to reality right away, let alone work.


    Indeed, when Song Qing came to report, Tan Huimin was still standing there, lost in thought.


    Song Qing looked at the transfixed Tan Huimin curiously, then leaned toward Qiu Tu and asked with curiosity, "Chief, what''s with the beauty you provoked? Why isn''t she moving?"


    "Did you freeze her in place? ?|???|?*~¡ñ"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knocked Song Qing on the head in annoyance, "Stop yelling nonsense if there''s nothing. She''s my secretary."


    "Now she...."


    ```


    As Qiu Tu thought this, he coughed and said, "She''s upset because something happened at home."


    Song Qing uttered an "Oh," then looked up at Tan Huimin, whose clothes were disheveled over her chest, her face stained with tear tracks, and her eyes swollen. She nodded and said, "I see. So that''s what happened."


    But her expression clearly showed that she believed none of it.


    Just like that, Tan Huimin remained stunned and motionless for nearly an hour before she finally snapped out of it.


    Yet she said nothing, neither thanking Qiu Tu nor continuing to argue with him¡ªshe just silently resumed her secretarial duties¡ªas if nothing had happened.


    But Qiu Tu knew... his words must have planted a seed in this woman''s heart.


    Her current noncommittal stance was merely because she still harbored a sliver of hope, intending to investigate the so-called "spiritual synergy and life creation" theory that Qiu Tu mentioned to see if it was true.


    Once she realized everything Qiu Tu said was true, a huge rift would form in her heart towards Zheng Tao!


    By then, she would be usable.


    Although her relationship with Qiu Tu might prevent her from being loyal to him... the enemy of one''s enemy is a friend.


    As long as she could become the sharpest knife in Qiu Tu''s hand, did it really matter whom she was loyal to?


    As for whether she would choose to collaborate with someone else after learning the whole truth?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu wasn''t worried. After all, given her status, position, and the people she had access to, was there anyone better to collaborate with than Qiu Tu?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not press Tan Huimin as he had that morning; instead, he went about his business as usual.


    Thus, with their tacit cooperation, the day''s work was quickly finished.


    After work, Qiu Tu didn''t leave the office immediately. Instead, he lit a cigarette and quietly contemplated his evening plans.


    After some hesitation, he ultimately decided to stick to his plan.


    He picked up the phone and called Secretary Bai, expressing a desire to meet with him alone that evening.


    Secretary Bai, as if he had been waiting for this call for a long time, agreed immediately to the request with a light laugh and no hesitation.


    ...


    [Threat in the Darkness (16 hours)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (2 days)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (3 days)]


    ... S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At 6 p.m., Qiu Tu arrived at Secretary Bai''s standalone villa in Xinjie City, ten minutes early.


    Knowing the sensitivity and importance of this conversation, Secretary Bai had arranged for no one to be on guard near the villa and had even sent away the housemaids.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed softly outside Secretary Bai''s villa door. Then, touching the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" hidden on his person and calculating the cooldown of his Cataclysmic ability, he made sure all his life-saving and combat options were ready before stepping into Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Upon entering Secretary Bai''s villa, a melodious piano sound filled the air.


    The elegant and casual notes seemed to express the owner''s calm mindset.


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and listened quietly to the piano for a while, only proceeding after the piece had finished.


    Secretary Bai, as if he had been waiting for Qiu Tu, spoke in a soft voice without turning around or taking his hands off the piano, "Actually... you should have come earlier."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "It''s not too late now, is it?"


    Secretary Bai chuckled, stood up, and gestured towards Qiu Tu before leading him to the living room.


    Along the way, Secretary Bai hinted with his question, "Aren''t you afraid I''ve set up ambushes all around my house?"


    Qiu Tu replied calmly, "I promised to spend the night with Director Tang."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s seemingly irrelevant but seemingly relevant response, Secretary Bai paused for a moment before bursting into laughter.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu in the air, "You... you''re always so unrestrained, never knowing the proper bounds when you talk."


    After speaking, he shook his head in reminder, "I might not mind such words. But if your subordinates heard them, would you still have any image in front of them?"


    As Qiu Tu listened to Secretary Bai''s friendly conversation and advice, he laughed twice before cutting to the chase, "So, you''ve aligned with the Evil God. Do you think you have any image in front of me?"


    ------


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters haha. Aiming for the minimum Monthly Ticket on the 15th!


    ```

 Chapter 237 Revealing the True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai lost his composure and let out a laugh.He shook his head and countered, "Defected to the Evil God? What nonsense are you spouting now?"


    As they talked, they had just arrived in the living room.


    Secretary Bai''s villa was decorated with elegance and grandeur. The overall color scheme was primarily grey and white, with cashmere carpets on the floor and impressionist murals on the walls, topped off with simple, stylish ceiling lights. It had a postmodern decorative style that reminded Qiu Tu of his previous life.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s "ghastly" style and Tang Feifei''s simplistic style, Secretary Bai''s decorating style was what Qiu Tu liked best and felt most comfortable in.


    Gesturing towards the light grey fabric sofa, Secretary Bai said to Qiu Tu, "Have a seat first, I''ll get you a cup of tea."


    With that, he turned to fetch a kettle of water from the kitchen and began rinsing the tea set in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu tentatively sat down on the sofa and, seeing that his "Crisis Intuition" gave no indications, he relaxed and naturally watched Secretary Bai preparing the tea.


    While Secretary Bai was making tea, Qiu Tu simultaneously watched and couldn''t help but bring the conversation back to the previous topic. He said, "Since you''re not an Evil God Cultist, why did you say that I should have come earlier?"


    "Does this mean you were waiting for me? And for what reason were you waiting¡­?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai, while pouring tea with his head lowered and gentle demeanor, replied with a smile, "Ever since we visibly fell out, for the most part, our actions have been based on understanding each other''s unspoken thoughts."


    "And we''ve never met or talked before, have we?"


    "Don''t you think it''s about time we met and had a proper conversation?"


    "So when I say you should have come to see me sooner, is there a problem with that?"


    At Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression involuntarily stiffened.


    Secretary Bai was not wrong in what he said.


    The two hadn''t spoken since Secretary Bai tipped off Qiu Tu, raising suspicions from Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    They only occasionally communicated through glances when they bumped into each other.


    So, Secretary Bai''s statement was indeed reasonable.


    However... Qiu Tu didn''t understand. Was Secretary Bai really unaware of the investigation he was currently conducting, and did he not realize his words and demeanor were ambiguous?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu recalled their conversation upon meeting and asked further, "Fine, I misinterpreted that sentence. But what about when you said your house was full of ambushes, what was that about?"


    "If we have no conflict, why would you ask if I was afraid of an ambush in your home?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a broader smile spread across Secretary Bai''s face.


    After rinsing the tea set and brewing the tea, he placed a cup of the poured tea in front of Qiu Tu, gestured with his hand, and then began to say,


    "Don''t you know how many people you''ve offended lately? Don''t you know there are many who want to see you dead?"


    "When you go to an unfamiliar place now, aren''t you worried about ambushes?"


    "This... It''s really just a joke."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Honestly, Secretary Bai''s explanation was perfect, seemingly without any flaw.


    But both were shrewd individuals well-versed in the bureaucratic world.


    A misinterpretation caused by one statement could be put down to a slip of the tongue on Secretary Bai''s part, or maybe Qiu Tu was overthinking and misunderstood.


    But the chances of two consecutive statements being slips of the tongue or misunderstandings were indeed very slim¡­


    With this thought, Qiu Tu took a deep look at Secretary Bai, mentally prepared: It seems... tonight will be a tough fight.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also abandoned the blunt, swift approach he had initially taken, and began a probing battle of wits with Secretary Bai.


    He picked up the tea, drank it boldly in one gulp, and then asked, "Brother Bai, you say many want me dead, who might they be?"


    As Qiu Tu drank his tea, Secretary Bai also picked up his cup, took a genteel sip, and then said, "For instance... Commissioner Huang, oh, I mean, Chairman Huang."


    Pausing, Secretary Bai seemed to remember something suddenly, looking at Qiu Tu, he asked, "Oh, by the way, Qiu Tu, did you know that Chairman Huang''s man has arrived in Xinjie City?"


    At these words, Qiu Tu frowned slightly.


    If his memory served him right, this secret news was something he had just learned from his "Crisis Intuition" the night before.


    To his surprise, Brother Bai also had this information, and he chose this moment to throw it into the mix.


    Reflecting on the past fifteen minutes he had spent with Brother Bai, Qiu Tu realized that the entire conversation was almost entirely under Brother Bai''s control.


    This was not good news for Qiu Tu, who always liked to control the flow of the conversation for probing and psychological warfare.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu silently resolved: I can''t let this continue. It''s imperative to break this pattern!


    So, with a quick thought, he threw out a bombshell to test Secretary Bai''s mettle.


    "Wu Zhi, isn''t it?"


    "The Advisor from Huang Shangzong''s Attendant''s Office."


    "I''m aware of it."


    Indeed, at Qiu Tu''s bombshell, Secretary Bai visibly startled.


    Clearly, he had not expected Qiu Tu to also be privy to this secret information, and even the enemy''s position and name had been figured out.


    Such surprise directly caused a breach in the conversational front he had maintained since entering the room.


    Qiu Tu keenly captured all of Secretary Bai''s expressions, roughly formulating his plan.


    He began his probing attack, "Old Bai, do you know some inside information?"


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai came to his senses, then laughed and shook his head, "How could I possibly know any inside information?"


    "I just happened to hear that Commissioner Wang entertained a distinguished guest last night, and the two enjoyed a long and pleasant conversation."


    "Oh, right, I believe Commissioner Wang is also quite familiar with Deputy Section Chief Ji from the Political Department."


    "So, halfway through, he called Deputy Section Chief Ji over, and they talked for a long time."


    "Deputy Section Chief Ji..." Qiu Tu muttered solemnly, knowing that Secretary Bai was referring to Ji Chen, a confidant of Yan Chen.


    Ji Chen had been placed in the Political Department by Yan Chen half a month ago. He was first promoted to become a First Level Detective.


    Then, a few days ago, after Zheng Tao was promoted to Deputy Division Chief, the vacant position of Chief of the Interrogation Section was taken over by one of its Deputy Section Chiefs, and Ji Chen smoothly assumed that Deputy Section Chief''s position.


    It can be said that Ji Chen is the detective with the fastest promotions in the Investigation Bureau besides Qiu Tu in the past year.


    His rapid three-position jump has left many legends in the Investigation Bureau.


    What''s more important is that even though he has now entered the roster of the Political Department, he still serves at Yan Chen''s side, acting as a semi-secretary.


    Thus, his every word and action to the outside world represent, to some extent, the stance of Yan Chen.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered involuntarily.


    Huang Shangzong, City Hall, and Yan Chen, were these three coming together?


    This was indeed news that made Qiu Tu somewhat uneasy.


    Fortunately, he had thought of a way to deal with this crisis after learning about it last night. Otherwise, he might already be in a state of chaos...


    While Qiu Tu was silently contemplating this crisis, Secretary Bai was also quietly observing him.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was not panicked by this news, he smiled faintly and continued to pour tea and drink.


    After a few seconds of silent contemplation, Qiu Tu collected his thoughts and then looked deeply at Secretary Bai before saying, "Thanks, Brother Bai." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When Secretary Bai heard this, he laughed heartily. Pointing at Qiu Tu, he said, "You, you. You''re really slick. You call me Old Bai when you suspect me, but once I''ve helped you, you call me Brother Bai."


    "You''re way too pragmatic!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also laughed "Hehe" a couple of times, then found an excuse, "I''ve just taken over the Supervisors Department, so I have a bit of an occupational disease. I''m suspicious of everyone I meet."


    "I ask Brother Bai to forgive me."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly remember something, then casually asked, "By the way, Brother Bai, when can my secretary be arranged?"


    Qiu Tu added, "I recall that secretaries of Deputy Division Chief level and above are arranged by the Administrative Office. And usually, they are arranged either on the same day or the next day."


    "What about my secretary?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai let out an "Oh," then while picking up Qiu Tu''s tea cup, he said, "I was just about to talk to you about that."


    "Minister Shi said that your position is rather sensitive and special, so the choice of secretary needs to be cautious, so he asked me to postpone it a few days for you. He wants to choose carefully."


    "Minister Shi from the Organizational Department...?" Qiu Tu looked deeply at Secretary Bai upon hearing this.


    Then he smiled and asked, "By the way, Brother Bai. Who decided on Zheng Tao''s promotion to the position of Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau? Was it Minister Shi?"


    Secretary Bai thought carefully for a moment, then slowly replied, "It seems like it was Deputy Director Yu who decided, right?"


    "I''ve forgotten the specifics. But I don''t think it was Minister Shi."


    "Deputy Director Yu..." Qiu Tu was visibly stunned, then he looked deeply at Secretary Bai once again. Following up, he asked, "By the way, Brother Bai. On the day Director Yan''s daughter, Yanyan, came to Xinjie City from the Sanctuary, did you personally go to receive her?"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s relentless questioning, Secretary Bai laughed and shook his head, then he poured a cup of tea for Qiu Tu and joked, "You really do have an occupational disease."


    "You''re treating me as your suspect, interrogating non-stop."


    "Come on, drink up, drink up."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew he was being a bit too eager, so he wisely picked up his tea cup, tilted his head back, and downed it in one gulp.


    And just as that cup of tea went down, Secretary Bai''s low voice suddenly resounded in Qiu Tu''s ear, "I wasn''t the one who went to receive her that day; it was Ji Chen. I waited for the two of them to reach the villa before I went out to welcome Miss Yanyan."


    "I recall that day was rainy, and just by walking a few steps, half of my sleeve got wet."


    "So, it left a deep impression..."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s account, Qiu Tu''s hand trembled involuntarily, and his eyes widened. He suddenly understood what Secretary Bai was really doing by saying so much tonight...


    ''Is he intentionally revealing his identity to me?''


    -----


    3 chapter update of 10,000 words haha, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 238 The Secret Revealed by Secretary Bai (10,000 Words for Subscriptions)

    ```With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu continued to sip his tea while covertly glancing at Secretary Bai.


    At that moment, Secretary Bai appeared as though he hadn''t been the one to speak those words; he simply kept his head down, quietly savoring his tea, looking very serene.


    Qiu Tu recalled every image he had of Secretary Bai in his memory and realized that the man always had that same expression.


    There was a faint smile on his face, neither aggressive nor distant, but reflecting a sense of inner peace.


    It was as if, to him, everything in this world was like fleeting clouds, unworthy of his care or attention.


    Honestly, it was precisely because of this impression of Secretary Bai in his mind that Qiu Tu found it hard to believe, after discovering that Secretary Bai was very likely a cultist of the Evil God.


    After all... how could a person without desires be tempted by the Evil God and become a believer?


    What could the Evil God possibly offer to entice him?


    Money, power? Beauties, immortality? sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu always felt that at least on the surface, Secretary Bai didn''t seem to care about these things.


    While Qiu Tu was pondering this, Secretary Bai also put down his teacup, smiled, and gestured toward the yard of his villa, saying, "Do you remember those flowers that you and Ah-Tai gave me?"


    Qiu Tu recalled and then remembered that Secretary Bai, who had no other hobbies, enjoyed reading and admiring flowers.


    As for books, they were rare treasures in tumultuous times, and Qiu Tu and Ah-Tai couldn''t provide any, so when Secretary Bai came back to Xinjie City, they dug up some flowers from the outskirts and gave them to him.


    Secretary Bai liked them very much at the time and even complimented the two on their taste.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu also said, "Oh, I remember. Ah-Tai and I dug up the chrysanthemum from the outskirts for you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Secretary Bai smiled slightly and gestured to Qiu Tu before standing up and walking toward the courtyard.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but follow along.


    As they reached the inner garden of the villa, what caught Qiu Tu''s eyes were several chrysanthemums, with their graceful and charming postures waving gently in the wind.


    The chrysanthemum stems were tall and sturdy, with round buds growing skyward, two flowers on a single stem, petals curved and coiling inward.


    Seeing those chrysanthemums, Secretary Bai sighed softly, squatted down, and while gently touching them, said, "In this world, all things are shrouded by a layer of dreamy, white mist."


    "Sometimes, you think you''ve seen the truth, but in fact, you''ve been mistaken."


    With that, Secretary Bai pointed at the flowers and said with a smile, "You and Ah-Tai always thought these were chrysanthemums."


    "And indeed, they do look like chrysanthemums."


    "But in fact, they are not chrysanthemums, they are orchids."


    "Orchidaceae, the Cymbidium genus, Golden Sand Chrysanthemum."


    "A very precious kind of orchid before the Era of Disaster, and you two rough men happened to dig it up."


    "Don''t be deceived by its appearance as a chrysanthemum, even its name includes ''chrysanthemum'', but it is an authentic orchid."


    Listening to Secretary Bai''s words that seemed to carry a deeper meaning, Qiu Tu asked, "Given this, was it right or wrong for Ah-Tai and I to dig it up and bring it here?"


    Secretary Bai stood up with a smile and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "Of course, it was right."


    "No matter what it looks like, if it should be dug up, it should be dug up."


    "After all, leaving it abandoned outside, no one knows what accidents could happen, right?"


    "It''s just that... when digging it up, one must be clear about what it really is and why it came to look this way."


    "Only through accumulating such knowledge will your experience grow richer, and you''ll be less likely to make the same mistakes when encountering similar situations in the future."


    At this, Secretary Bai paused for a moment, "Besides, if you hadn''t dug it up back then, how could you have met me so naturally?"


    "Did you really think I was someone you could meet on a whim?"


    Saying this, Secretary Bai winked with a smile, "I can be quite shrewd, you know."


    Listening to these words with a double meaning, Qiu Tu gave Secretary Bai a deep look and then nodded with a smile, "Understood."


    Having said all he wanted, and needed to say for the evening, Secretary Bai patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder and joked, "Alright then. We''ve talked, and we''ve seen the flowers."


    "Go have one more cup of tea before you leave."


    "Director Tang is still waiting for you outside. The night is short but affection is long, do not let the fair lady wait in vain."


    At his words, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and nodded.


    After returning to the living room, Secretary Bai brewed the final cup of tea, and after Qiu Tu drank it, he stood up and left the villa without looking back.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departing figure, Secretary Bai moved slowly to the piano, sat down, and began playing again.


    An unknown piece, carrying a hint of parting sorrow and regret, as if seeing Qiu Tu off...


    The azure moonlight shone down, casting its glow on Secretary Bai and his ever-composed face, the serenity was profound.....


    ...


    Stepping out of Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Qiu Tu looked up toward the distance where Tang Feifei stood with her hands in her pockets atop a tree, quietly watching him.


    This woman, despite being a bit violent, lustful, and aloof, was still extremely reliable when it came down to business.


    Qiu Tu worried that seeking Secretary Bai tonight might lead to an encounter with the Evil God, so he made a call directly to her.


    And successfully employed Tang Feifei for the night with a "price."


    Tang Feifei initially wanted to enter the villa with Qiu Tu, but he refused her suggestion, not wanting to startle the snake in the grass.


    So, Tang Feifei toured around the villa to scout the terrain and eventually chose the top of this pine tree.


    According to her, standing at the top of this pine tree gave her a bird''s-eye view of the entire villa.


    Moreover, with the "Spiritual Vision" state, she could clearly see all of Qiu Tu''s and Secretary Bai''s actions and conditions, ready to execute rescue if needed.


    Qiu Tu found her reasons to be very sound, so he agreed.


    And now, seeing Qiu Tu return safely, Tang Feifei leaped lightly off the tree, arms spread, descending like a flying hawk from the treetop. Explore more stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    ```


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, Tang Feifei''s gaze swept up and down his body before she asked in an indifferent tone, "Is everything okay?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Tang Feifei said, "Then, let''s go to my place to talk."


    After saying that, she turned around and strode with her long legs toward her villa.


    The villas of Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai were not far apart. In other words, apart from the independent manor that Yan Chen had someone build separately, the high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau all had their villas built together.


    Arriving at Tang Feifei''s home, apart from the people patrolling outside, there were no outsiders in the villa.


    The two sat down on the sofa and talked about their recent meeting with Secretary Bai.


    Tang Feifei asked in a cool manner, "Was it Bai Yu?"


    Qiu Tu''s face became somber as he nodded and said, "It should be him."


    Tang Feifei squinted as if she were a lioness eyeing her prey and asked, "How did you confirm it?"


    Qiu Tu recounted everything from meeting Secretary Bai to the moment of departure, including all their conversation and expressions.


    Perhaps because she wasn''t very good at this kind of circuitous conversations, Tang Feifei slightly furrowed her brows.


    She tilted her head up, her wheat-colored face conveying dissatisfaction, "What kind of riddles are you playing at?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He explained, "Old Bai indeed likes to speak in riddles."


    Qiu Tu gave an example, "Like when he wanted me to escape, but he didn''t directly tell me where to go; instead, he told me that Director Liu from Eastern City had some conflict with Yan Chen."


    "This was his way of implying it to me."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei nodded slightly with a cool expression, offering her opinion, "Bai Yu does indeed like to talk in circles. He never gives a straight answer."


    After speaking, she inquired, "But what did you hear from what he said?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, then explained to Tang Feifei, "With Old Bai, you need to listen to only half of it, to the implications."


    "From the very first sentence he said upon our meeting, he was actually giving me a hint."


    "He said I should have come earlier, which really was to tell me that I was right to seek him out. But... it was a bit late."


    "And when he said his house was filled with ambushes, he was implying that the two of us were actually on opposing sides."


    "Even though he gave various explanations afterward, but... they were just explanations."


    "Later, he told me that Advisor Huang Shangzong came to Xinjie City, ready to harm me."


    "In fact, he revealed two pieces of information."


    "The first layer was the apparent information, warning me that Huang Shangzong was ready to make a move on me. The second layer was what he really wanted to express: he... hadn''t changed at all, he had never intended to harm me."


    "But at that time, I wasn''t clear about his stance, nor what he was really thinking, so I couldn''t figure out what he wanted to convey, and I had to keep probing."


    "I previously asked him directly if he was an Evil God Cultist, and he denied it."


    "Whether he didn''t want to confess and leave any leverages, or there was some kind of compulsion on him that prevented him from admitting it, in any case, I knew I couldn''t inquire so directly."


    "So, I simply started to gather information."


    "I asked him three questions. When my secretary would be arranged; who supported Zheng Tao''s promotion to Deputy Division Chief; who picked up Yan Chen''s daughter Yanyan."


    "These three questions seemed inconsequential, but they were actually full of implications."


    "Zheng Tao has now been confirmed as a follower of Larilo, so the person who promoted him to target me back then is very likely that high-level mole."


    "And Larilo wanted to use Zheng Tao''s wife to lure me by letting her become my secretary. But as a Deputy Division Chief, I was supposed to have a secretary. Once there was a new secretary by my side, Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin, would definitely have to leave."


    "So, to prevent Tan Huimin from leaving, that high-level mole would definitely interfere with the selection of my new secretary." (Chapter 213)


    "The only thing about picking up Yan Chen''s daughter... that was because I was almost certain that the girl now with Yan Chen was the Evil God Lariro."


    "That''s why I used these three questions to probe Secretary Bai."


    "Secretary Bai''s response to the first question was fairly normal. He said it was Advisor Shi Youxin from the Organizational Department interfering with the selection of my secretary."


    "The second question, however, was a bit off. Because he brought up a second suspect: Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi, claiming Director Yu made Zheng Tao''s promotion happen."


    "As for... the third question. He was outright lying."


    "He claimed that it was Ji Chen who went to pick up Yan Chen''s daughter that day, and he just welcomed her at the villa''s entrance."


    "But actually... from that evening, Ji Chen was with me and Yan Chen the whole time. Instead, it was he who had disappeared for a long time and did not return to the villa until late at night."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s eyes flashed with a dangerous gleam, "So he gave himself away?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "No. He was deliberately hinting at me."


    Tang Feifei was a bit puzzled, "Hinting?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes. Because he... actually knew Ji Chen had been by my side the whole time."


    "He used a falsehood to tell me that his previous two answers were also false."


    "The true answers... they were all him."


    "It was he who promoted Zheng Tao, it was he who prevented the Administrative Office from assigning me a new secretary, and it was he who brought the Evil God to Yan Chen''s side."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s brows furrowed deeply, "But why would he do that?"


    Tang Feifei was clearly confused by the tacit understanding between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai.


    Her wheat-colored face was filled with bewilderment.


    Then, frowning slightly, Tang Feifei made two hypotheses in her cold tone, "If he really is an Evil God Cultist, he should act as if everything has nothing to do with him or blame these three things entirely on one person, to divert the direction of your investigation."


    "If he isn''t an Evil God Cultist, he shouldn''t be doing these things for the Evil God! He is joking with his own life!"


    ------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words each. Vote for your Monthly Ticket, ha!

 Chapter 239 The Person Behind Secretary Bai Is... (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Qiu Tu nodded, agreeing with Tang Feifei''s judgment, "You make sense.""So Old Bai explained to me later."


    Tang Feifei frowned deeply, a flicker of unusual color passing through her eyes, "Are you referring to when he said ''You think you''ve seen the truth, but in fact, you''ve seen it wrong?''"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said with a deep gaze, "Yes. He said that everything in this world is shrouded in a layer of white fog. We think we see chrysanthemums before us, but in fact... it''s orchids."


    "That itself is telling me that what I''m seeing now may not be the truth. Instead, it''s an illusion."


    "It''s possible that he really did defect to Larilo, but there could be compelling reasons. It''s just that he can''t say them out loud."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s explanation, Tang Feifei''s gaze deepened, and she sat cross-armed on the sofa, falling into thought.


    After pondering for a dozen or so seconds, she looked at Qiu Tu and slowly said, "So... the conversation you had after that seemed to be about whether that orchid from back then should be dug up."


    "In reality, it was about whether you can move against him now."


    "And Bai Yu''s answer was: Though it should be dug, we must clarify what it looks like. In fact, he was hinting to you that you should still move against him, but make sure you don''t misinterpret his identity."


    "And what he said afterward: ''If you don''t dig up the orchid, how can you see him.'' was actually telling you that if you don''t apprehend him, if you don''t pursue this truth, how can you understand the true nature of the affair?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "Yes, that''s right."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s affirmative answer, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face didn''t show much joy, but rather, more doubt appeared.


    Her gaze slightly narrowed as she looked at Qiu Tu, "But... what could be the reason that he ''had no choice'' but to turn to the Evil God?"


    "Do you realize, once someone becomes an Evil God Cultist, the only thing awaiting him is execution by firing squad. There''s no second path."


    "He can''t really think that just by hoodwinking you a bit, he could escape doom, could he?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu fell silent for a few seconds before slowly saying, "Perhaps... there are unspeakable difficulties."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s expression, Tang Feifei sharply picked up on something. She questioned him with suspicion, "Do you know the reason?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quickly shook his head with a smile, "How could I possibly know the reason. I''ve told you everything in my conversation with Old Bai."


    "What you know is what I know."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei paused to think. Although she still felt something wasn''t quite right, she eventually nodded slightly, "That''s true."


    After speaking, she inquired, "So... what are you planning to do next?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s question, Qiu Tu also pulled his emotions from the distress of Old Bai being the "mastermind" behind the scenes.


    He slightly curved the fingers of his right hand into a grasping motion and then said, "Catch him!"


    "I want you to help me apply to Tang Jiancha for an investigation order! Authorizing us to apprehend Secretary Bai and bring him back to the Political Department for interrogation!"


    When Tang Feifei heard Qiu Tu''s words, she didn''t leave immediately but asked another question, "It shouldn''t be just this one investigation order, should it?"


    At this, Qiu Tu chuckled, "Hehe," and with a cheeky expression said, "If possible, I''d trouble you to also approve the investigation order for Yan Chen''s daughter, Yan Yan."


    "That way, once I''ve captured Old Bai, I can go directly to apprehend Larilo and prevent her from escaping."


    Tang Feifei: ...


    Tang Feifei, looking at Qiu Tu, remarked, "You really can''t sit still, can you? You won''t be satisfied until you''ve stirred up the heavens."


    But Tang Feifei was a decisive and efficient woman, so even though she lamented, she stood up and then said, "I''ll call my second uncle and ask."


    "However, I can''t guarantee it''ll be successful."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then said, "Then I''ll go take a shower and wait for you."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s heart raced for a moment.


    She sized up Qiu Tu with a dangerous look in her eyes, then coolly said, "Don''t worry, I guarantee it will be successful."


    Having said that, she turned and walked away with her long legs, leaving the living room.


    Seeing her departing figure, Qiu Tu smirked, feeling like he was engaged in some sort of bribe.


    ''All of this is for the investigation, the investigation!'' he chanted to himself twice, brainwashing himself, before he finally turned to go to the bathroom to shower.


    In the bathroom, amid the "pitter-patter" of water, Qiu Tu''s thoughts grew even more profound.


    In truth... he had just lied to Tang Feifei.


    Although he indeed told Tang Feifei every detail of his conversation with Secretary Bai, what Qiu Tu didn''t mention was... he might have guessed the real message that Secretary Bai was trying to convey to him secretly.


    This hidden message wasn''t obtained through conversation or gestures, but through Secretary Bai''s series of abnormal behaviors tonight, which led Qiu Tu to his own realization...


    What kind of person Secretary Bai was, Qiu Tu knew best: he was someone who would repay even the smallest kindness with a fountain of gratitude.


    Ever since Qiu Tu saved his life, Secretary Bai had been repaying the kindness he owed.


    Including helping Qiu Tu and others buy houses in Old Alley Street; including leaving enough money for Qiu Tu for two or three years of living;


    Including, after the establishment of Xinjie City, recruiting Qiu Tu into the Administrative Office of the Investigation Bureau; including introducing Qiu Tu to Yan Chen as a driver;


    Including turning a blind eye to the fact that through his and Yan Chen''s influence, Qiu Tu was able to get Ah-Tai and others jobs; including secretly giving Qiu Tu hints and tips, helping him escape.


    It also includes that even though he was at odds with Qiu Tu, he still found an opportunity to tell him that an Advisor from Huang Shangzong had arrived in Xinjie City and was plotting against Qiu Tu¡­


    All these actions prove that although he seems indifferent on the surface, he actually has a clear sense of gratitude and grudges¡­


    Therefore, Qiu Tu boldly speculated: Secretary Bai, who clearly has no desire for "Reproduction" nor interest in the Evil God, still became a follower of Larilo, probably also because of gratitude. Find exclusive stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    However, seeing that Secretary Bai did not hesitate to betray Larilo today, it seemed that the gratitude did not come from Larilo.


    So¡­ Qiu Tu speculated that maybe someone who was indebted to Secretary Bai asked him to become a follower of Larilo, leading to all this.


    For example¡­ Yan Chen.


    Although Qiu Tu is unclear about what kind of favor Secretary Bai owed Yan Chen, based on all of Secretary Bai''s actions, it seems that he is very loyal to Yan Chen.


    Even if Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu hints or leaked information several times, it was all under the circumstance where he believed it would not affect Yan Chen''s interests. (Chapter 127)


    So, when he found out that Secretary Bai had become an Evil God Cultist almost without any motivation, and also did not hesitate to betray the Evil God.


    Qiu Tu''s first reaction was: Couldn''t it be that Secretary Bai became a follower of Larilo by Yan Chen''s arrangement?


    As for why Yan Chen would make such an arrangement, Qiu Tu is unclear¡­


    And to what extent Yan Chen is involved in this matter, Qiu Tu is unclear¡­


    Does Yan Chen actually know that his daughter has been switched? Qiu Tu is unclear.


    What role he played in the incident of his daughter being switched, Qiu Tu is also unclear. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The only thing he could guess was: Perhaps, Yan Chen wanted to gain a huge benefit from Larilo.


    But Yan Chen is cautious and does not want to take risks personally, nor does he want to ruin his future prospects, so he hinted or arranged for Secretary Bai to become a follower of Larilo.


    For more specific details, Qiu Tu could only wait to apprehend Secretary Bai to get a clear picture¡­


    ''So¡­ are Larilo and Yan Chen actually playing their own separate games of chess on the same board?''


    ''It all depends on who has the superior tactics. Who can outmaneuver the other?''


    The more he found himself in this chess game, the more Qiu Tu realized the complexity of the situation.


    And what''s more critical is that he discovered¡­ both the players holding black and white pieces were his enemies.


    It seemed that no matter who won, it wouldn''t be good for him¡­


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then exhaled a heavy sigh!


    No matter what, Secretary Bai''s "surrender" allowed him to finally seem to glimpse the true whole picture of Xinjie City''s chess game.


    He believed that as long as he continued, he would soon be able to figure everything out and make his own choices!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu turned off the hot water, then dried his body, wrapped the bath towel around his waist, and walked towards the bedroom.


    As he entered the bedroom, Tang Feifei had just finished a phone call.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come in, her gaze narrowed, and her sharp eyes swept across Qiu Tu''s bare upper body and the six-pack abs several times.


    The yellow glint at the bottom of her eyes began to flicker, like a female leopard spotting an interesting prey.


    There''s an awareness that comes with being a kept man.


    So, ignoring Tang Feifei''s predatory expression, Qiu Tu sat on the bed nonchalantly, propping his hands beside him, then asked, "What did uncle say?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei withdrew her gaze, then, as she began to undo her uniform jacket, she said coolly, "Uncle agreed."


    "And he knows you''re eager to work on the case. So, he said he''ll expedite the stamping and fax the Authorization Letter over. This way, you can take action tomorrow."


    Having heard what Tang Feifei said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but give a thumbs up, "That''s uncle for you, always reliable."


    Tang Feifei let out a faint snort, as if to mock Qiu Tu''s naivety¡ªit wasn''t without her spending a lot of effort, using threats and temptations, that Tang Jiancha would have agreed so readily.


    But she herself was not the type to explain, so while she tossed her shirt aside and continued to unbutton her inner garment, she added, "Another thing. He asked me to warn you."


    "Huang Shangzong has set his sights on you and has been looking up your information lately."


    "And since Dongye State is about to be established, from then on, city-level cases can no longer be directly authorized by the Sanctuary; they have to go through a procedure at the state level first."


    "So, once Huang Shangzong decides to cut you off, he might only be able to help you this one time. Therefore, he wants any conflicts you have to be resolved in one go."


    ------


    Three chapters, ten thousand words, ah. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 240 Fierce Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up slightly, incredulously looking at Tang Feifei,"So... this means I have unlimited firing rights?"


    Tang Feifei: ?


    At this moment, Tang Feifei had already switched to her body''s last line of defense.


    She clasped the white ribbon she wore before becoming Yue Xiong, then silently stared at Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, she tore off the ribbon and threw it at Qiu Tu''s face, saying coldly, "In your dreams!"


    She gave Qiu Tu a disdainful side glance, "Even I don''t dare to stir up trouble carelessly, fearing that it would bring complications to my family."


    "If you create too big of a mess, and actually provoke the people behind Yan Chen, or Huang Shangzong..."


    "At that time, you better not blame me for running faster than you."


    Tang Feifei''s ribbon carried a faint scent of milk, and it smelled quite nice; Qiu Tu took it off his face, and while rubbing it, curiously asked, "Then what does Second Uncle mean?"


    Tang Feifei said, "Second Uncle just wants you to be decisive."


    "Any opponent that needs to be dealt with must be done with a ruthless heart and hand, without showing any mercy."


    "But for the opponents you can''t handle, after showing your toughness, if you must concede, then concede. Don''t stubbornly resist."


    "Politics is the art of compromise; all officials who have climbed to the level of Bureau Chief, haven''t done so without being masters of this game." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Once they realize that you too can''t be dealt with easily, cooperation becomes the option that benefits both sides."


    "Since Huang Shangzong has already set his sights on you, you can''t afford to give him the slightest opening!"


    It was then that Tang Feifei stood before Qiu Tu, hands on her hips, and said indifferently, "This is what Second Uncle means by ''resolve it in one go''!"


    The way Tang Feifei stood in front of Qiu Tu had nothing wrong with it, but... paired with her lack of clothing, it seemed somewhat enticing.


    Qiu Tu looked up admiringly at Tang Feifei''s body; under the illumination of the light, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored skin seemed to shimmer with a golden glow.


    Perhaps because of practicing martial arts, along with constant exercise and stretching, her body was full of elasticity, slim where it should be slim, and curvy where it should be curvy.


    And because she was a Third Order Cataclysmic, having gone through three enhancements and two reconstructions, her lines were smooth, not abrupt at all, exceedingly beautiful, just like a Victory Goddess.


    Qiu Tu remembered the first time he tried Tang Feifei''s body, that part which was both soft and bouncy to the touch, had left him lingering for a long time.


    Reining in his wandering thoughts, Qiu Tu brought his focus back to the main issue.


    He looked at Tang Feifei and asked, "What about you? Would you compromise politically?"


    Tang Feifei let out a "Heh" and looked down at Qiu Tu from above, "I could smash his head in!"


    Having said that, she slightly squinted her eyes, looking at Qiu Tu and said, "If you fail to satisfy me, I will also smash your head in."


    She said lightly, "I''ve been a bit irritable lately; I don''t feel like holding back any longer."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Before Qiu Tu could react, Tang Feifei pounced on him like a leopardess, directly ripping off the bath towel he was wearing!


    In that instant, the sounds of two Cataclysmics in combat filled the room.


    But whether it was underestimating him, or misjudging Qiu Tu''s strength,


    Although Tang Feifei had unlocked part of her power, in a few exchanges, she found herself unable to suppress Qiu Tu!


    She finally sensed something was amiss and wanted to completely unleash her power as a Third Order Cataclysmic, but it was too late.


    Qiu Tu took advantage of Tang Feifei''s underestimation and went all out decisively, quickly putting Tang Feifei under pressure.


    But Tang Feifei, having practiced martial arts for many years, was also a proud person; so, despite the discomfort of being overpowered, she still bit her lip and didn''t cry out for mercy even once.


    In this way, the two fought fiercely for almost two hours, only falling together after a powerful exchange of moves.


    In that moment, the world seemed to quiet down, even time appeared to slow significantly.


    Both were immersed in the afterglow of the intense battle and the satisfaction of meeting a worthy opponent, and neither wanted to speak...


    Several minutes passed in silence before Tang Feifei propped herself up on her arm, turned towards Qiu Tu with a puzzled face, and asked, "Did you advance?"


    "A Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    Qiu Tu''s face was filled with smugness, but his tone was as casual as ever, "Just like that... I advanced accidentally."


    Tang Feifei: ??


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s irritatingly smug face, a vein on Tang Feifei''s forehead throbbed.


    She remembered the hardship she endured to advance as a Second Order Cataclysmic, and suddenly felt a tinge of annoyance.


    So, she got up and wanted to have another battle with Qiu Tu!


    Before, she had been accommodating to Qiu Tu, so she restrained her own instincts, but now she wanted to unleash all her strength and have a proper fight with him.


    Just then, as if Qiu Tu sensed Tang Feifei''s thoughts, or perhaps he really had a sudden inspiration.


    He suddenly slapped Tang Feifei''s very elastic bottom and said, "Feifei! There''s actually something I want to ask you."


    "Why do I feel that all you Third Order Cataclysmics, Second Order Cataclysmics, each and every one of you, are so strong?"


    "While I... seem to have increased my level in vain, as my strength hasn''t improved that much, has it?"


    Qiu Tu recalled, "Like you, like the Special Service Department''s Bureau Chief Lin Qin."


    "I once saw him cover a distance of more than ten meters in one step, then throw a punch that almost had the power of a small grenade."


    With that said, Qiu Tu waved his arm and added, "But I... don''t seem to have that kind of strength."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei glanced at him sidelong, leaned into his embrace, and then said, "Of course. Because you haven''t systematically learned martial arts, nor have you learned the corresponding techniques for exerting force."


    "So, naturally, you can''t bring out the strength in your body."


    Qiu Tu became interested upon hearing this and asked, "Martial arts? Techniques for exerting force?"


    "Does such power exist in this world?"


    Tang Feifei, obviously interested as well, began to discuss earnestly, "Of course."


    She explained, "What''s the biggest change in the Era of Disaster?"


    "It''s the physical manifestation of mental power."


    "Mental power started to influence reality and thus began to possess various miraculous, weird, and powerful abilities."


    "And all the skills that can enhance mental power, make it more focused and stronger, started to shine anew."


    Tang Feifei straightened up and presented herself in front of Qiu Tu, then coldly gave examples, "Like pottery, painting, musical instruments, and even fishing, performing arts¡ªall have developed to different extents."


    "Many Cataclysmics have one or two different hobbies."


    "And martial arts... a skill that can condense mental power and also improve the physical strength of Cataclysmics is naturally even more esteemed and promoted by them."


    Qiu Tu mused upon hearing this and said thoughtfully, "So, I''m actually lacking in two aspects?"


    "One is... my mental power isn''t focused enough to wield the strength of a Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    "And two is... I don''t understand martial techniques, so I can''t use the powerful strength of my body as a Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, then she inquired, "Do you read books?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated, "When do I have the chance?" Stay connected through My Virtual Library Empire


    Tang Feifei said coldly, "Exactly."


    "Reading is actually the lowest-cost and most convenient way to refine mental power."


    "When you immerse yourself in the ocean of books for a long time, your mental power will also be involuntarily honed."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember the times he had seen Yan Chen reading books and nodded suddenly.


    He finally understood where he was lacking.


    Frankly, he only had the level of a Second Order Cataclysmic, but he didn''t truly possess the strength of one.


    If not for his unique Cataclysmic ability that was unbeatable against weaker foes, he probably wouldn''t be able to beat even a well-trained First-order Catastropher.


    At that moment, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s unusual emotions, Tang Feifei added, "Of course, you actually don''t need to learn martial arts or refine your mental power."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, Tang Feifei explained, "Because, even the strongest body can''t withstand a cannon."


    "Once you have enough authority, your personal martial prowess doesn''t really matter."


    At this point, as if something occurred to her, Tang Feifei suddenly said, "Oh right, my uncle mentioned that Huang Shangzong has sent his Advisor to Xinjie City, did you know that?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu crossed his hands behind his head, smiled, and said, "I know. Not only do I know, but I also know that they''ve connected with Commissioner Wang and that even Yan Chen''s confidant assistant has collusion with them."


    "If I''m not wrong, they will probably make a move against me tomorrow morning."


    "But you don''t need to worry, I already have a countermeasure."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s face first filled with surprise, then she looked at Qiu Tu with skepticism.


    ------

 Chapter 241 Tang Feifei is Shocked (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Clearly, Tang Fei didn''t quite understand how Qiu Tu knew so much information, even more than she did.After all, her news came from the Sanctuary.


    So, she couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu with a puzzled face and asked, "This should be a very secretive matter, right?"


    "How did you come to know this? And know so much about it."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu actually really wanted to complain that this so-called secret message didn''t seem secret at all.


    Not only did he know, but even Secretary Bai knew.


    Of course, although Qiu Tu thought this way, definitely wouldn''t say it.


    And... facing a woman like Tang Feifei, what he needed to do was maintain a sense of mystery.


    Not only could this arouse her curiosity, but it also easily increased her desire to conquer.


    Although Tang Feifei never explicitly said it, Qiu Tu had indeed clearly felt Tang Feifei''s interest in him diminish over time.


    Perhaps because she had already gotten him and no longer found him precious, or perhaps because the two had spent too much time together, gradually losing the sense of freshness and mystery. Anyway, as the relationship between Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu became more and more familiar, her interest seemed to decrease.


    Qiu Tu knew this was a very dangerous signal.


    And he also knew that if he wanted to continue enjoying the benefits of being with someone as desirable as Tang Feifei, he would have to try some new tricks.


    Like his promotion to a Second Order Cataclysmic, which increased his strength, was sort of a new trick.


    And adding to his own mystery was another kind of trick....


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu then casually said, "Where I got this information from is definitely something I can''t tell you."


    "What I want to say is that what you consider secret might be nothing to me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s smug words, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but curve her lips into a smile.


    And the interest in her eyes when she looked at Qiu Tu suddenly intensified.


    Licking her lips, she said with a dangerous look, "It seems our Minister Qiu is truly extraordinary."


    "Not only has your strength improved, but you''ve even expanded your intelligence network."


    "After some time, you''re not going to take my position, are you?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed, unapologetically saying, "I''m not interested in your position."


    "What I''m eyeing is the position above you."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei was firstly stunned, then her look at Qiu Tu changed.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu gradually felt more confident.


    Since he met Tang Feifei that evening, he had been boasting and planting flags for a reason.


    The Emotional Fraud Manual [108 Ways to Enhance Affection] Article 27: A woman''s nature is to admire strength, so a meek man lacks sexual tension.


    For women, if a man is tamed and overly cautious in making conversation, afraid of angering her, he cannot spark their interest.


    A woman''s genes determine they will only admire the strong.


    So, even if you boast but say the wrong thing, you''re still more charming than if you hesitated a lot.


    Even if the decisions you make or actions you take are wrong, they''re still more appealing than giving the decision-making power to a woman.


    Even if taking her hand abruptly makes a woman feel rushed, it''s still more attractive than being afraid to even reach out.


    This is why many women like bad boys. That kind of innate confidence satisfies them.


    Furthermore, while learning this method, Qiu Tu also remembered a note: the stronger the woman, the more she admires strength.


    So, even powerful women may occasionally fancy a "little puppy" to adjust their weary mood, but they ultimately admire the strong more.


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei was clearly that of a "rich lady" and a "little puppy".


    Although Qiu Tu had previously tried hard to "resist" to pique Tang Feifei''s interest,


    the huge gap between their strengths, positions, and family backgrounds still made Qiu Tu more like a "toy". Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    Before, Qiu Tu had no way to change this situation, so he could only drag it out, enduring.


    But now, his position had been promoted to Deputy Minister, only two ranks below Tang Feifei, and his strength had risen to that of a Second Order Cataclysmic, barely catching her eye, so he definitely needed to change Tang Feifei''s impression of him.


    Therefore, he first made bold statements in front of Tang Feifei, then used his strength as a Second Order Cataclysmic to "attack" Tang Feifei. Now, he started to create a mysterious image.


    All this, was following the teachings of the Emotional Fraud Manual.


    And now, it seemed to be working well.


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu took advantage of his victory to continue the pursuit.


    He sat up from the bed and then continued to refresh his image in Tang Feifei''s mind.


    He said, "Additionally, Feifei, I feel that my strength is still somewhat weak."


    "Although I have been promoted to a Second Order Cataclysmic and became the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, and even established my own intelligence network...."


    "But... my personal strength is still lacking."


    "So...." Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei with earnest eyes and said, "....I want to learn martial arts!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was indeed shocked again.


    A golden glow began to appear in her eyes, dangerous yet enchanting.


    She looked at Qiu Tu as if a female leopard had set eyes on her prey and inquired, "We just had a fierce battle, aren''t you tired?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and shook his head, "I feel like I could fight another battle, so studying martial arts surely...."


    Before he could finish his words, Tang Feifei interrupted him, "Then... let''s have another battle."


    Qiu Tu: Huh?


    The golden glow in the depths of Tang Feifei''s eyes almost overflowed as she said, "Only real combat is the best teacher."


    "Don''t worry, I will make you both happy and knowledgeable."


    "This time, I will go all out."


    Qiu Tu: Eh?


    Somehow, Qiu Tu felt he might have gone too far.....


    ...


    And so, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei fought fiercely once again.


    This time, because he needed to learn martial techniques, the battle was somewhat different from before.


    Tang Feifei not only gave Qiu Tu some "mental arithmetic problems" but also gave him a few extremely vicious "fill-in-the-blank questions"....


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu''s fountain pen was almost out of ink that Tang Feifei, with her mouth and body covered in ink, finally let Qiu Tu go....


    After Qiu Tu fell asleep, Tang Feifei, who had been nestled in Qiu Tu''s arms, got up, crossed the room with her long legs and a stride as agile as a female leopard, and went to the second bedroom''s bathroom to wash up.


    Even as a Third Order Cataclysmic, it''s uncomfortable to sleep with something sticky on your body.


    After washing up, Tang Feifei wrapped herself in a white shirt, left the front half-open, revealing her full and elastic Yue Xiong, and then walked to the balcony.


    Resting her hands on the balcony rail, Tang Feifei gazed at the blue moon in the sky and seemed lost in thought.


    Tang Feifei was rather taken aback by Qiu Tu''s transformation today, it had to be said.


    As Qiu Tu had previously thought, Tang Feifei used to see Qiu Tu as nothing more than an interesting "toy."


    Although she hadn''t planned to cast him aside after using him, she merely thought about giving Qiu Tu some money after getting bored with him and arranging his future properly. That would end their time together without owing each other anything.


    And, perhaps everyone has a propensity for favoring the new over the old. So....as Qiu Tu agreed time and again to keep her company due to circumstances, her interest in Qiu Tu rapidly dwindled.


    She thought things would continue to develop like this. But today, everything changed. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu presented himself before her in a way she had never imagined.


    It was the first time she seriously scrutinized this little man in front of her after breaking up with her X partner.


    Only then did she suddenly realize this little man had achieved a height in a very short period that was enough to catch her attention.


    A Deputy Director of the Political Department, ranked in the top 12 for power in the Investigation Bureau, and an important person in the top 40 of Xinjie City, was enough to warrant more than a few glances from Tang Feifei.


    And as a Second Order Cataclysmic¡ªone who, apart from his Cataclysmic ability, possessed no other powers¡ªQiu Tu had already proven his potential and strength.


    Add to that his enigmatic intelligence network, and Qiu Tu''s increasingly swelling ambition.


    And so, Tang Feifei genuinely began to take an interest in Qiu Tu....


    ''An intriguing little man....''


    ''Worth observing more.''


    With that in mind, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but recall the phone call she had with her second uncle who was far away at the Sanctuary....


    ''Let him first get through this tough spot, then assess his worth.''


    ''If he truly proves valuable, perhaps... the family would be very interested.''


    With this thought, Tang Feifei turned back to look in the direction of the bedroom, ''If he could really connect with the family.''


    ''That would be a mutually beneficial arrangement.''


    ''After all.... Without support from the Sanctuary, Deputy Director is the highest position that someone from the Planning Area could aspire to.''


    Thinking this way, Tang Feifei stood in silence for a moment, then moved towards the bedroom with her long legs.


    Since she was only wearing a shirt, her healthily tanned skin flashed between the hemlines, like a leopard hidden in the jungle ready for another round of hunting...


    ...


    [Threat in the Darkness (1.5 hours)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (1.5 days)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (2.5 days)]


    ...


    A silent night passed.


    Early the next day, Qiu Tu awoke from his sleep.


    It must be said that the physical condition of a Second Order Cataclysmic is formidable.


    In the past, Qiu Tu struggled to hold on and felt like his back would retire the next day.


    But now...he only felt a slight soreness.


    ''Hmph! Third Order Cataclysmics are nothing special!''


    As he built up his confidence internally, Qiu Tu climbed out of bed.


    Just like last time, the self-disciplined Tang Feifei had already woken up early and finished her morning exercise.


    She seemed unfazed by the significant physical exertion from the night before.


    If Qiu Tu hadn''t felt her sweat-soaked body, he might have thought he''d mistaken someone else for her last night.


    After greeting Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu took a bath and then put on a bathrobe Tang Feifei had bought for him before coming out.


    Taking the millet porridge that Tang Feifei handed to him, Qiu Tu took out his Communicator right in front of her and began making calls.


    The first call Qiu Tu made was to Cao Dabiao.


    When faced with Qiu Tu''s call, Cao Dabiao almost immediately picked up.


    After answering, Cao Dabiao''s flattering voice followed, "Brother Tu, you looking for me?"


    Qiu Tu stirred his millet porridge as he spoke, "Yes. Big Biao."


    "I have a task for you."


    "Gather all our people right now, arm them, and then assemble outside Director Tang''s house."


    "I have important business to attend to."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao paused briefly before asking hesitantly, "Chief...You''re not planning on apprehending the Deputy Director, are you?"


    Qiu Tu scolded jokingly, "What are you thinking of! Have I lost my mind to do such an extreme act?"


    Relieved by Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao patted his chest and chuckled, "Scared me for a second."


    "I was just saying the Chief and the Deputy Director get along so well, how could you possibly make a move on her."


    After speaking, he added, "Then, Chief, wait for me! I''m going to gather the people right now!"


    Qiu Tu grunted in response and then hung up the call.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu leisurely continued with his breakfast.


    Sitting across from him and eating her own breakfast, Tang Feifei leaned on her hand and watched him with interest. "You do seem very confident."


    "Don''t forget, today you have to catch Bai Yu as well as deal with the interference from Huang Shangzong''s confidant."


    ------


    Still 3 chapters with 10,000 words, haha. Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 242 Capturing Secretary Bai (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s reminder, Qiu Tu chuckled and pulled out a tissue to wipe his mouth, then said, "So what?"


    "Are Huang Shangzong''s confidants that formidable?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s retort, Tang Feifei nonchalantly stirred her millet porridge and said, "Huang Shangzong''s confidants aren''t considered formidable, but Huang Shangzong is."


    "Even a seventh-rank official waits at the Prime Minister''s gate. One should pay respect to Buddha even if not to the monks."


    "That confidant, when going out, represents not himself but Huang Shangzong."


    "So, be sure not to underestimate him...."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, said indifferently, "If Huang Shangzong''s confidants are so formidable, do they hold positions at the Sanctuary? Do they have ranks?"


    Tang Feifei replied, "They will have them soon."


    "Huang Shangzong is a committee member at the Sanctuary and cannot have his own independent office with ranked officials."


    "But once Dongye State is established and he becomes the Speaker, he will have the right to establish his own independent office with ranked officials."


    "For them, it''s just a matter of lacking a procedure."


    At Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed with a hint of nonchalance, "It''s exactly his lack of procedure that I need." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Without that procedure, he''s nothing."


    Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a deep look, and refrained from further reminding him.


    After all, Huang Shangzong''s confidants can leverage the power of ranked officials even without a position, like Ji Chen or Commissioner Wang, after all.


    But Tang Feifei knew that if she could think of this, certainly Qiu Tu could as well.


    There was simply no need for her to remind him. She just had to wait and see.


    Therefore, breakfast was quickly finished.


    Not long after breakfast, Qiu Tu also received a call from Cao Dabiao.


    On the phone, Cao Dabiao had already assembled the team and was on his way to Tang Feifei''s location, estimating about 20 minutes to arrive.


    Qiu Tu acknowledged and hung up the phone. He did not rush but instead raised his head to look at the countdown hourglass in the upper left of his field of view.


    At some point, the countdown for "Threat in the Darkness" had only 50 minutes left.


    This meant that in 50 minutes, the crisis would completely erupt.


    This would be Qiu Tu''s first time directly confronting Huang Shangzong.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took out the special communicator given to him by Tao Yaoyao and sent a message to a somewhat familiar number....


    .....


    Time ticked away second by second.


    20 minutes later, Cao Dabiao and Qiu Tu''s batch of confidants successfully reached the perimeter of Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Because Tang Feifei''s Security Team had returned that morning, Qiu Tu''s confidants did not directly enter the villa to find him but patiently waited outside.


    Possibly because the group was too dangerous, Tang Feifei''s Security Team members watched them warily, fearing they might barge into the villa....


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    A convoy of luxurious black cars slowly stopped at the entrance of the Investigation Bureau.


    After the cars halted, a woman dressed as a secretary hurriedly got out and then opened the door for the big shot in the backseat.


    A portly man with a bit of a double chin stepped out of the car.


    This was Commissioner Wang from Xinjie City''s Municipal Committee. His main responsibilities were household registration and municipal affairs, but he also had a say in some matters related to people''s livelihoods, like those handled by the Investigation Bureau.


    After stepping out of the car, Commissioner Wang gave a nod to the secretary, who promptly went around to the other side of the car and respectfully opened another door.


    As the door opened, a somewhat bookish-looking young man got out. The youth carried an air of arrogance, a self-content smile on his face, and when his gaze swept over the investigators coming and going from the Bureau, there seemed to be an inherent sense of superiority emanating from him.


    Upon seeing the young man, Commissioner Wang chuckled and said, "Advisor Wu, this is the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. Shall we go in and take a look?"


    After hearing Commissioner Wang''s words, Wu Zhi nodded politely and then said with a smile, "Sure." Discover more content at My Virtual Library Empire


    Having said that, he didn''t even wait for Commissioner Wang to lead the way; instead, he started walking towards the Investigation Bureau on his own.


    Seeing this, Commissioner Wang had no choice but to walk briskly to catch up.


    But this turn of events made the entourage, which was supposed to be led by Commissioner Wang, seem as if it was led by him instead.


    Entering the Investigation Bureau, Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi was already waiting in the lobby.


    As a Commissioner from the Municipal Committee, theoretically on the same level as a Deputy Director, Yu Zhengyi''s presence to receive them was proper.


    Therefore, as soon as he saw Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang hastened his steps, shook hands with him, and said, "Director Yu, I came specially to introduce Advisor Wu for a visit."


    ```


    "As for Counselor Wu, he came here on a mission."


    "You must cooperate fully."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s words, Yu Zhengyi''s face was also filled with smiles. He looked at Wu Zhi and reached out proactively, saying, "Understood, understood. If there''s anything we need to do, just say the word, Counselor Wu."


    Wu Zhi shook hands with Yu Zhengyi, and then he spoke somewhat coolly, "Actually, there is indeed something I need your bureau''s help with."


    He said, "I would like to review all the case files, recordings, and video materials handled by Minister Qiu Tu."


    "Additionally, I would like to meet with the victims and suspects of the [August 19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] and the [Qin Family Treason Case]."


    "Would that be convenient?"


    Yu Zhengyi was clearly already aware of Wu Zhi''s purpose for coming, so he replied without hesitation, "Of course, that''s no problem."


    At this, Wu Zhi seemed to remember something and added, "Right, as I recall, Minister Qiu''s former boss was Zheng Tao, right? He''s now the Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau, I believe."


    "Would it be possible for me to meet with him?"


    This time, Yu Zhengyi hesitated briefly but still agreed, "No problem. I''ll notify Director Zheng in a moment."


    As they talked, they arrived at the elevator.


    The elevator doors slowly opened, and they walked in, laughing and talking.


    Leaving only the many curious lower-level agents in the lobby watching their retreating figures, wondering what was happening...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    As soon as Wu Zhi arrived at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu also left Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Arriving at the villa''s perimeter, Qiu Tu saw the core team he had in this world.


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian... and several dozen other mid-senior level agents, even the usually lazy Song Qing was there.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao also scurried over.


    He said with a sheepish grin, "Sir, everyone''s here. Where shall we head next?"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu also glanced over everyone present.


    Then, instead of answering Cao Dabiao''s question, he said, "Everyone, as early as yesterday, after I officially accepted the position of Deputy Chief of the Political Department, I transferred all of your names from the Action Division to the Inspection Department."


    "The main task of the Inspection Department is to oversee officials at all levels in Xinjie City, to prevent them from being corrupt and lawless, from betraying the Sanctuary, from betraying humanity."


    "We could be considered the Sanctuary system''s last line of defense."


    "As long as we are here, we can at least guarantee that the management layer of Xinjie City won''t have major issues."


    Qiu Tu first used his inspiring words to establish a lofty ideal for his confidants present, to enhance their sense of group honor and self-confidence.


    And seeing that his confidants were all moved, Qiu Tu then shifted his tone and continued, "But now, one of Xinjie City''s high-level officials has violated the laws of the Sanctuary, has betrayed the trust of the Sanctuary."


    "What should we do?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the astute ones like Cao Dabiao were still deep in thought, while the simple-minded girl Song Qing, who only thought about finishing work, was the first to shout out, "Apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    "Yes, apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    "Apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    With Song Qing leading, the chant of the confidants quickly became a chorus.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly. Then he said, "Good! Well spoken, let us move out now!"


    With that, Qiu Tu began assigning tasks.


    He divided his agents into three teams: one to disarm Secretary Bai''s Security Team, one to follow him into the villa to control Secretary Bai, and another to secure the perimeter and prevent any accidents.


    And it was only then that everyone realized who Qiu Tu intended to arrest ¨C Secretary Bai.


    However, a loyalty rating of seventy to eighty points, along with Qiu Tu''s morale-boosting speech, made them fearless.


    So, in just a short while after they were assigned their tasks, the arrest mission officially began.


    Secretary Bai''s villa wasn''t far from Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Thus, it only took a few minutes for the group to arrive at Secretary Bai''s villa.


    The first team drew their guns and, with the arrest warrant, effortlessly disarmed Secretary Bai''s Security Team, escorting them to one side.


    The third team spread out around the villa as planned, setting up a security perimeter to prevent outside disturbance.


    As for the second team, they followed Qiu Tu''s lead, charging straight into the villa, ready to arrest Secretary Bai...


    ------


    It''s still three chapters making up 10,000 words. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 243 Shocking the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    A day had passed, and as Qiu Tu once again entered the villa, his state of mind was completely different.When he came yesterday, Qiu Tu''s heart was uneasy. He harbored concerns about his own safety and curiosity about whether Secretary Bai truly was an Evil God Cultist.


    But today, Qiu Tu''s mood was one of unmatched tranquility.


    Leading his subordinates into Secretary Bai''s villa, the grass on the perimeter was trampled down by the group''s direct approach.


    The lawn, which originally looked exceptionally fresh and comfortable, became messy and disorderly, just like this soon-to-collapse estate.


    Upon entering the interior of the villa, internal guards immediately came down after hearing the noise.


    Two of Secretary Bai''s confidant detectives stood at the door, startled by the sight of the imposing crowd.


    But since their job was to protect Secretary Bai, the two exchanged glances and quickly extended one hand forward, palm facing out, making a "prohibitory" gesture.


    "This is the villa of Bai Yu, head of the Administrative Office. Which department are you from?"


    During this exchange, one of the detectives recognized Qiu Tu and also noticed the black uniform representing the Political Department worn by the group.


    His complexion changed, and he quickly tugged at the detective beside him, wanting to whisper a few words.


    However, at this moment, Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian, who were beside Qiu Tu, took decisive steps forward, surpassing Qiu Tu''s position, and in unison drew out silver handcuffs, promptly cuffing the outsretched hands of the two detectives!


    The two detectives were clearly startled and quickly exclaimed, "What are you doing!"


    Before they could finish speaking, Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian snickered, yanked the handcuffs, and with a swift maneuver, pulled the two men aside.


    The actions of the four were very quick; from the detectives extending their hands to stop them, to Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian subduing the pair, it had taken scarcely two or three seconds.


    So when Qiu Tu, followed by his confidants, approached, the entrance was already unobstructed.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t even glance at the two subdued detectives and stepped over the threshold, walking straight into the outer hall of the villa.


    In the outer hall, Secretary Bai was sitting at the dining table, eating breakfast.


    Although his position in the Investigation Bureau was as Yan Chen''s secretary and house steward, their high statuses within the Bureau allowed them not to serve and accompany Yan Chen like those personal or confidential secretaries would generally have to.


    Secretary Bai''s breakfast was not lavish: a piece of bread, a fried egg, and a glass of milk.


    While eating, a maid stood silently by his side, waiting on him, as he simultaneously dined and read the newspaper.


    Hearing the clamorous footsteps intruding his villa, he didn''t seem surprised, his gaze still fixed on the newspaper.


    Only when Qiu Tu drew near did he lift his glass of milk, sipped it lightly, and then, with a hint of emotion, said, "Director Tang really thinks highly of you."


    "To have completed the formalities for you in such a short amount of time."


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    As he said this, he put down the newspaper and extended his hand toward Qiu Tu, "Let me see the Authorization Order."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s request, Qiu Tu straightaway took out the copy of the Authorization Order that Tang Jiancha had faxed over last night and put it in Secretary Bai''s hand.


    Secretary Bai took the Authorization Order, looked it over carefully, and then smilingly handed it back to Qiu Tu.


    After that, he picked up a piece of silk white handkerchief to wipe his mouth, put it down, and then extended both hands cordially towards Qiu Tu, ever the epitome of grace.


    All his actions were just as graceful as they had been over a year ago when he processed Qiu Tu''s entry paperwork, as calm and composed as ever.


    Watching him, images of all the moments spent with Secretary Bai seemed to flash before Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    He looked intently at Secretary Bai for a moment before finally taking the silver handcuffs passed to him by Song Qing.


    "Click!"


    With that sound, Qiu Tu cuffed the silver handcuffs onto Secretary Bai''s wrists, and the second of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau was apprehended...


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment, yet Secretary Bai''s expression remained serene, as if he had seen through all the vicissitudes of life...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the same time as Secretary Bai''s arrest,


    In a conference room on the ninth floor of the Investigation Bureau, Wu Zhi, a confidant of Huang Shangzong, was intricately reviewing all the case materials and records handled by Qiu Tu over the past year.


    He seemed to possess some strong rapid-reading or memorization ability.


    Despite holding textual documents, a projector was set up on the table, with a tape recorder placed on his right-hand side.


    He was doing just that, simultaneously perusing the textual materials, watching the video footage, and listening to the audio recordings, as all three lines of investigation progressed in parallel.


    At his side, Commissioner Wang and Deputy Director Yu were quietly exchanging glances.


    Both being among the top 15 heavyweights in Xinjie City, they were certainly acquainted with each other. Though not frequently socializing in private, they would occasionally exchange a few words.


    Now that there was no one else in the room, they surreptitiously communicated with each other.


    From their exchange of looks, it was clear they harbored doubts about Wu Zhi''s ability to multitask so adeptly, simultaneously reading, watching, and listening.


    Though Huang Shangzong was an important figure in the Sanctuary, with a retinue of capable followers, such an exaggerated method of investigation was somewhat beyond their belief.


    As they were entertaining these thoughts, suddenly, Wu Zhi''s hands also began to move.


    His right hand holding a red pen, he swiftly circled several segments in the textual documents.


    Then, his left hand hit the pause button on the projector, jotting down a few numbers onto a blank sheet of paper, as if recording the timestamps of problematic footage.


    Seeing this, Commissioner Wang and Yu Zhengyi couldn''t help but glance at each other before turning their attention back to Wu Zhi. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Wu Zhi, as if oblivious to their stares, began to write and draw swiftly.


    His movements were quick, and in just about ten minutes, he had filled several pages with writing, encircling numerous details in many interrogation records.


    Upon seeing this, Yu Zhengyi sneaked a peek at Wu Zhi''s notes and realized that while he couldn''t understand the textual part, the circled sections pertained to minor details.


    Some related to Qiu Tu''s suspected irregularities; others to gaps in Qiu Tu''s documentation, relying on confessions for verdicts; and yet more indicated Qiu Tu''s careless clerical work, suggesting a tendency to determine guilt before finding evidence....


    Such issues were actually present in all departments of the Investigation Bureau: after all, the Planning Area had only recently been brought under the control of the Sanctuary, with imperfect laws, and most cases were handled expediently by the Bureau.


    Moreover, these issues weren''t exclusive to Xinjie City; other Planning Area cities faced them as well.


    But... these were unwritten rules that were not to be openly discussed. If the Sanctuary''s laws were strictly enforced, Qiu Tu would indeed be guilty of serious violations.


    Once Qiu Tu was deemed in violation, he would immediately be stripped of his duties and work.


    And without his position, Qiu Tu''s "golden body" would be shattered, and then all those who bore grudges against him or were dissatisfied with him would pile on.


    Whether by offering clues or testimony, or even... framing and smearing. No one would want to see Qiu Tu rise again.


    After a few glances to understand Wu Zhi''s approach, Yu Zhengyi nodded slightly.


    Although Wu Zhi''s method was not particularly delicate, it had the advantage of being secure and systematically thorough.


    Particularly when combined with his status as a confidant of Huang Shangzong, and Commissioner Wang, who theoretically had the authority to propose suggestions about the Bureau''s affairs. Added to that was Yan Chen''s tacit cooperation, shutting one eye. Qiu Tu''s fate seemed almost impossible to reverse.


    At that moment, as he was contemplating this,


    suddenly, someone knocked "bang bang bang" on the office door.


    As the Deputy Director, it was natural for Yu Zhengyi to respond, so he said in a deep voice, "Come in."


    At the sound of Yu Zhengyi''s voice, the door to the office was pushed open from the outside, and an investigator rushed in hastily.


    Seeing his appearance, Yu Zhengyi''s expression darkened slightly, and he said coldly, "What''s the hurry? Has the sky fallen?"


    "I didn''t expect Commissioner Wang and Counselor Wu to be here. What a spectacle!"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, the investigator, looking embarrassed, slowed his pace and then quickly approached Yu Zhengyi.


    Once in front of Yu Zhengyi, he first glanced at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, then leaned towards Yu Zhengyi and whispered, "Director, there''s been a problem."


    "Qiu Tu didn''t come to work today, so when we took people to the Political Department, we couldn''t control him."


    "After that, we made inquiries from various sources and found out... it''s not just that he didn''t show up, he even took all his confidants with him."


    Upon hearing this, Yu Zhengyi''s brow furrowed deeply. The high echelons of the Investigation Bureau all knew that Qiu Tu had dozens of confidant investigators under his command. It was a considerable force.


    So he couldn''t help but ask, "What is he doing taking so many people with him?"


    The investigator whispered, "He... he has taken Secretary Bai."


    "What?!" On hearing the investigator''s words, Yu Zhengyi, who had just been advising the investigator to remain calm, was so startled he almost stood up from his chair!


    -------


    Chapter three, 10,000 words, ha. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Continuing with daily 10k tomorrow!

 Chapter 244 Framing and Entrapment (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Yu Zhengyi''s surprise was so astonishing that it echoed throughout the entire office, causing Wu Zhi to involuntarily pause in his actions and drawing Commissioner Wang''s gaze as well. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In fact, when that investigator had walked in moments earlier, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi had been busy with their own tasks, yet part of their attention had been on him.


    This led to them vaguely hearing a few phrases despite the investigator''s low voice.


    Phrases like "Qiu Tu wasn''t restrained," "took away confidant," "Secretary Bai"...and so on.


    But because they missed some crucial information, they were unable to piece together the whole story, so seeing Yu Zhengyi''s shock made them both look over in curiosity.


    Compared to Wu Zhi, Commissioner Wang was obviously more familiar with Yu Zhengyi, so he asked with a chuckle, "Director Yu, what happened?"


    At that moment, Yu Zhengyi realized he had lost his composure.


    However, this matter was an internal affair of the Investigation Bureau and likely involved some secrets.


    So, even though he knew they would find out sooner or later, he still chose to buy time at the outset.


    He forced a laugh and said, "Nothing, nothing at all."


    "It''s just a little mishap in one of the divisions. I need to sort it out now."


    After speaking, he turned to the secretary who had been standing by his side and said, "Xiao Zhang, I''m stepping out for a moment."


    "Assist Commissioner Wang and Advisor Wu here."


    "Fulfill any requests they might have, understand?"


    Director Yu''s secretary quickly bowed and responded, "Yes, Director."


    Seeing this, Yu Zhengyi smiled at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, rose to his feet, and said, "Well then, I need to attend to something urgently, please excuse me, gentlemen."


    After finishing, Yu Zhengyi didn''t even wait for the reactions of Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi; he promptly strode out of the conference room.


    The investigator who had come to report earlier, seeing this, gave everyone an awkward smile and hastily followed out.


    Witnessing the scene, Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang exchanged glances. Just as they were about to quietly confer, Director Yu''s secretary suddenly approached and asked softly, "Commissioner Wang, Advisor Wu, if there is anything you need, please instruct me."


    Hearing this, Wu Zhi thought for a moment, then said, "Please check with the Public Security Bureau for me. The Deputy Division Chief Zheng, whom I''ve been hoping to meet since I entered the Investigation Bureau, why hasn''t he arrived?"


    "Has something happened?"


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, the secretary promptly nodded, then pulled out a communicator and, in front of Wu Zhi, began to make a call....


    Meanwhile, Zheng Tao had indeed encountered some issues.


    In fact, since learning this morning that Wu Zhi wanted to see him, he had been indecisive.


    He had discreetly approached Guan Weihua, the Chief of the Public Security Bureau, to inquire about Wu Zhi''s background.


    Upon discovering that Wu Zhi was a confidant of a high-profile individual and suspected of coming to deal with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao felt tempted, to tell the truth.


    However, it''s important to know that he wasn''t struggling alone¡ªhe was a follower of Larilo.


    Qiu Tu was an important target for Larilo, to the extent that Zheng Tao had even sent his wife to go undercover.


    Therefore, after returning to his office, he didn''t act rashly but made a call to his direct superior: Secretary Bai.


    But now....Secretary Bai''s phone couldn''t be reached no matter what.


    Under such circumstances, Zheng Tao had no choice but to hold his position and patiently wait for Secretary Bai to contact him.


    But as he waited... came the news of Secretary Bai''s arrest.


    There are no secrets within the Investigation Bureau, and since Qiu Tu''s actions weren''t kept confidential, as soon as Qiu Tu disarmed Secretary Bai''s security squad and barged into Bai''s villa, some of the middle and senior staff at the Bureau began receiving the news.


    They were shocked by Qiu Tu''s audacity, and they were also inquiring why Bai was arrested.


    This caused the news to slowly leak out, and thus, Zheng Tao learned of it as well.


    Truth be told, at the moment he heard the news, Zheng Tao felt despair.


    Others might not know what crime Secretary Bai had committed, but he did!


    Colluding with an Evil God, a crime against humanity!


    And what''s more.... Secretary Bai was his direct contact. Now that Bai had been arrested, what if he was also exposed?


    So, for a time, Zheng Tao''s mind was in turmoil, feeling utterly at a loss....


    Then, at that moment.


    Suddenly, the landline phone on his desk began to ring.


    "Ring, ring, ring!" The sharp ringing in the office was exceptionally clear, startling Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao jolted back to reality, momentarily bewildered, and then his eyes finally landed on the landline phone.


    He hesitated for a short while before slowly reaching his hand out, inch by inch, toward it.


    "Ring, ring, ring...."


    The landline rang incessantly.


    Zheng Tao''s facial expression changed. But eventually, he placed his hand on it.


    Picking up the handset, Zheng Tao tried to calm himself, "This is Zheng Tao, may I ask who''s speaking?"


    A man''s voice came through the receiver, "Director Zheng, good day, I''m the secretary of Director Yu. Half an hour ago, I invited you on behalf of Commissioner Wang and Advisor Wu to meet with us."


    "You agreed, but you haven''t arrived yet. So, I''m calling to inquire about your whereabouts. Have you been held up by something? Do we need to wait a bit longer for you?"


    Upon hearing Secretary Yu Zhengyi''s words, Zheng Tao instinctively wanted to refuse directly¡ªafter all, he was already overwhelmed and really had no time to deal with Wu Zhi and Qiu Tu''s matters.


    However, just when he thought of "Qiu Tu," Zheng Tao paused for a moment, then an idea struck him.


    Yes... the person who had arrested his line manager, Secretary Bai, was Qiu Tu.


    And Wu Zhi was also after Qiu Tu.


    If... he could help Wu Zhi take down Qiu Tu, wouldn''t he be able to save Secretary Bai and extricate himself as well?


    With this thought, Zheng Tao hardened his heart!


    He decided that once he was in front of Wu Zhi, he would dramatize Qiu Tu''s issues, even... frame him!


    In life and death situations, morality doesn''t count for much...


    With that in mind, he responded, "Ah, hello, Secretary Zhang. There was a bit of an issue in the office just now, which caused some delay."


    "I''ll be there now."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone, stood up, and prepared to meet with Wu Zhi on the 12th floor.


    Yet just as he was about to get up, suddenly, the door of his office was pushed open from the outside.


    Zheng Tao frowned and looked towards the newcomer.


    The visitor was his wife, Tan Huimin.


    Seeing Tan Huimin, Zheng Tao felt a surge of irritation.


    He ignored her desire to chat and simply dropped a line, "I have an urgent matter to attend to right now and need to leave first."


    "You help me clean up the office."


    After finishing, he adjusted his uniform and left the office.


    Tan Huimin watched his hurried figure, stretched her hand out as if wanting to stop him for a chat, but her hand, raised in the air, ultimately... was lowered.


    Sighing deeply, Tan Huimin closed the door of the office and began cleaning Zheng Tao''s office...


    Taking the elevator, Zheng Tao swiftly reached the 12th floor.


    Arriving at the conference room on the 12th floor, Zheng Tao took a deep breath and then knocked on the door.


    A middle-aged man''s voice from inside the room called out, "Come in."


    Zheng Tao pushed open the door of the conference room and saw four people inside.


    Two were sitting and two were standing.


    The two sitting people, one was a paunchy middle-aged man, the other was a young man with pride on his face.


    Although Zheng Tao had not met the two men before, with just a brief moment of thought, he guessed that the middle-aged man was Commissioner Wang, and the prideful young man was Wu Zhi.


    Read exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    The standing ones were obviously the secretaries of Commissioner Wang and Director Yu.


    With a quick mental turn to recognize everyone in the room, Zheng Tao squeezed out a smile towards them and said, "Commissioner Wang, Advisor Wu."


    Zheng Tao''s position was not low, so upon seeing him, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi did not put on airs, and they each got up to shake hands with Zheng Tao.


    After briefly getting acquainted, the three began discussing Qiu Tu''s situation.


    Faced with this lone opportunity for a desperate counterattack, Zheng Tao certainly didn''t let it pass by.


    He spoke solemnly, exaggerating the details of Qiu Tu''s work in the Interrogation Section.


    Things like disrespecting superiors, arriving late, leaving early, and messing around in romantic relationships were all mentioned.


    But... although Qiu had always been irresponsible, he seldom broke the rules. No matter how much Zheng Tao exaggerated, Wu Zhi''s expression hardly changed.


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao bit the bullet and resorted to framing and slander.


    He looked at Wu Zhi and said, "Advisor Wu, the truth is... Qiu Tu''s mistakes are far worse than what I''ve just mentioned."


    "In the time he''s worked in the Interrogation Section... he actually silenced important prisoners, accepted bribes from prisoners'' families, and facilitated the escape of prisoners."


    ----


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words each. Requesting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 245 Shooting Huang Shangzongs Confidant! (10,000-word Appeal for Subscriptions!)

    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang exchanged a glance, their eyes lighting up momentarily.


    Unable to help himself, Wu Zhi said, "Director Zheng, please elaborate on these incidents."


    "It''s very likely that they will greatly assist my investigation."


    Upon hearing Wu Zhi''s request, Zheng Tao heaved a sigh of relief, and quickly relayed the incriminating evidence he had concocted on his way here.


    Although Zheng Tao had some issues with his character, his capabilities were unquestionable¡ªthe cases handled by the Interrogation Section over the past year were almost all memorized by him.


    He was acutely aware of which cases had doubts, which had issues, and which weren''t completely by the book.


    Therefore, he selected only two cases that occurred during Qiu Tu''s tenure, subtly altering some details to frame Qiu Tu.


    His reasoning was clear as well: Wu Zhi''s arrival was precisely to take down Qiu Tu.


    Thus, whether what he said was true or false, it would eventually be regarded as "true."


    Because, once Qiu Tu was taken down, there was no coming back.


    Moreover, the most important thing was... if he didn''t manage to take down Qiu Tu and rescue Secretary Bai, he might be the one to be taken down instead.


    Hence, although such framing wouldn''t stand up to scrutiny, it... didn''t matter. He no longer cared.


    While Zheng Tao was thinking this, Wu Zhi swiftly wrote up an interrogation record.


    After checking it over, Wu Zhi handed it to Zheng Tao, "Director Zheng, please verify this. If there''s no issue, please sign your name."


    Upon hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Zheng Tao briefly checked to ensure that his framing wasn''t diluted, then nonchalantly signed his name.


    Seeing Zheng Tao sign, Wu Zhi visibly relaxed.


    Although he was a confidant of Huang Shangzong and deeply trusted by him, Huang Shangzong had more than one confidant.


    Therefore, while he could have easily concocted an excuse to take down Qiu Tu, it would have fulfilled his mission but planted seeds of future trouble.


    So, he hoped that everything done was as legitimate as possible.


    Now that Zheng Tao had signed the testimony, it signified his willingness to take responsibility for it.


    Thus, he had adequate reason to eliminate Qiu Tu once and for all.


    And even if the testimony was proven problematic later, by then everything would have been settled, beyond rectification.


    At worst, he could take Zheng Tao down later and interrogate him as to why he gave false testimony.


    With this in mind, Wu Zhi finally allowed a confident smile to spread across his face.


    Then, he turned to Commissioner Wang and asked, "Commissioner Wang, now that we have a plethora of leads and evidence, should we not meet with Qiu Tu?"


    "See what he has to say?"


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Commissioner Wang responded with a chuckle, "No problem. I believe it''s indeed time."


    With that, Commissioner Wang addressed the secretary of Yu Zhengyi, who had been waiting on the side, "Secretary Zhang, do you think we can arrange a meeting with Qiu Tu now?"


    Secretary Zhang could be counted as one who had been involved in the investigation from the start.


    He was aware of what exactly Wu Zhi wanted to do.


    So, when he heard Zheng Tao''s attempt to frame Qiu Tu, he knew that "it was all over" for Qiu Tu.


    No matter whether Zheng Tao was telling the truth or lies, Zheng Tao was ready to be the knife that struck at Qiu Tu.


    Thus, he didn''t say anything in Qiu Tu''s defense, only smiling and saying, "I''ll contact Minister Qiu right away."


    After speaking, he took out his communicator and began calling Qiu Tu.


    Whether Qiu Tu was too busy with a case to check his phone, or deliberately ignoring the calls, it was uncertain. But several calls went unanswered, sinking like stones without any response.


    This gradually tested the patience of both Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang.


    It was precisely at this moment that the conference room door was pushed open from the outside.


    Ji Chen entered from outside. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He looked at those present, and then said, "Commissioner Wang, Wu Counselor. I''ve just received intelligence that this morning, without any authorization, Qiu Tu forcibly disarmed Secretary Bai''s security team and stormed into Secretary Bai''s villa, arresting Secretary Bai."


    "Now, he''s not answering calls or replying to messages under the pretext of handling a case."


    "Therefore, I suggest, perhaps we should visit Secretary Bai''s villa to see what exactly is going on?"


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s suggestion, Wu Zhi hesitated for a moment but finally agreed.


    After all, he was aware of the idiom ''The longer the night lasts, the more dreams will occur.'' Now that he had acquired Qiu Tu''s ''evidence'' of guilt, he could dismiss Qiu Tu from his position at any time and bring him back for investigation.


    If by giving Qiu Tu time to prepare, Qiu Tu found a way to counterattack, it would lead to a host of problems later on.


    So, thinking along these lines, he didn''t hesitate any longer. He stood up and said to Ji Chen, "Okay, let''s go then."


    A convoy of vehicles grandly set out toward Secretary Bai''s villa.


    On the way, Wu Zhi seemed to remember something, and spoke to Ji Chen, who was sitting in the passenger seat, "I originally intended to visit Director Yan today."


    "But I heard he caught a cold last night and took the day off to rest. That''s why I didn''t go to see him."


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Ji Chen chuckled and replied, "Counselor Wu is too polite. The Bureau Chief really isn''t feeling well today. But he also instructed me to fully cooperate with your work."


    "So please be at ease, the Bureau Chief understands everything."


    After hearing what Ji Chen said, Wu Zhi couldn''t help but smile.


    The motorcade moved imposingly through half of the city to the villas of the Investigation Bureau''s high-ranking officials, to Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Indeed, this place had already been taken over by Qiu Tu''s confidants.


    Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and a dozen other agents in Political Department''s black uniforms guarded every exit of the villa, forbidding anyone from entering or leaving it.


    Yet when they saw the motorcade, they exchanged glances and bravely stepped forward to intercept them, demanding the vehicles to stop.


    When they were stopped, Ji Chen rolled down the window, and then shouted to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng! Take a good look at who I am!"


    "Make way!"


    Hearing his words, Chen Feng coldly replied, "Director Ji, the Inspection Department of the Political Department is handling a case. What is an Interrogation Section director like you doing here?"


    "Furthermore, when has your Interrogation Section had the authority to order us around in the Inspection Department?"


    After hearing Chen Feng''s unabashed rebuttal, Ji Chen''s face turned from red to white.


    But he knew that arguing for the sake of arguing was pointless right now. The priority was to deceive Qiu Tu into coming out.


    Thus, he skipped over the topic and went on to say, "I won''t argue about these things with you."


    "I''m here with an important guest to meet with Minister Qiu. Please ask him to come out."


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Chen Feng didn''t continue to confront him but instead said, "All right, I''ll go in and let him know."


    As he spoke, he gestured to the other agents to keep a watchful eye, and then he turned around to notify those in the villa. Your journey continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    Seeing this, Wu Zhi, who was in the back seat of the car, snorted coldly and remarked, "This Qiu Tu might not hold a high position, but he sure puts on a grand display."


    Commissioner Wang played along with a smile, "After all, he is the deputy of the Political Department. His power is immense. It''s normal to have such a grand setup."


    This comment, on the surface, seemed explanatory, but on closer inspection, it carried a sarcastic undertone.


    And so, while playfully mocking Qiu Tu, they waited for about five or six minutes.


    Finally, just when they were becoming impatient, Qiu Tu, guarded by several confidants, slowly walked out from the villa.


    Qiu Tu, being naturally tall and handsomely imposing, now appeared even more domineering with the aura of immense power as he appeared with his confidants.


    Seeing Qiu Tu emerge, they all got out of the car.


    As a member of the Investigation Bureau, Ji Chen took the initiative and said, "Qiu Tu, I have come because an esteemed guest wishes to meet with you."


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu, as if he hadn''t noticed anything unusual, smiled and glanced at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, cupping his hands, "I apologize for being busy with matters here and making the distinguished guests wait."


    After that, Qiu Tu turned to Ji Chen and said, "Director Ji, would you mind making the introductions?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu acting so normally, all three of them relaxed a bit inside.


    After all, no one wanted a direct confrontation to occur while the opposition was still armed with dozens of guns.


    Being able to peacefully deceive Qiu Tu into getting on the car or lure him back to the bureau for a bloodless arrest was certainly preferable to forcibly taking him away while he held great power.


    Thus, they continued to play along with the act.


    Director Ji pointed to Commissioner Wang and introduced him, "This is Commissioner Wang from the City Hall, mainly in charge of registry and civil affairs."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu extended his hand to Commissioner Wang, "I have seen Commissioner Wang."


    Seeing this, Director Ji then pointed to Wu Zhi and was about to introduce him, when¡­


    "Bang!"


    Before he could finish speaking, a gunshot rang out.


    Blood splattered, Wu Zhi''s eyes bulged, and a bullet hole suddenly appeared on the side of his head, then he slowly collapsed to the ground...


    ------

 Chapter 246 Qiu Tu Has Made a Name for Himself! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    The incident happened too suddenly.


    At the time, Qiu Tu was being led by Ji Chen, walking up to Wu Zhi. The three of them formed a triangle.


    So when Wu Zhi''s head exploded, and blood burst forth, splattering both Qiu Tu and Ji Chen in the face.


    At that moment, time seemed to slow down, and a ringing filled the ears of everyone present.


    The brains of all who witnessed this scene were buzzing, leaving their minds blank.


    Qiu Tu, Ji Chen, Commissioner Wang, and others struggled to turn their heads toward the direction the gunshot had come from.


    But then, two more shots rang out ¨C "Bang! Bang!"


    Two bullets whistled towards Qiu Tu!


    At that moment, time seemed to resume its normal flow.


    Amidst the screams of the crowd, chaos erupted. Commissioner Wang, with his protruding belly, moved with a speed that did not seem to fit his body, diving behind the car for cover.


    He was one of the quick responders; most of the people he brought scattered and fled.


    By comparison, the investigators from the Investigation Bureau reacted much better.


    The guards accompanying him and Ji Chen all evaded immediately, drew their guns, and started looking for the enemy.


    As for Qiu Tu''s confidants, they probably behaved most oddly: not one of them took cover, instead, they all rushed towards Qiu Tu with eyes split wide in fury!


    After all, the assassin hadn''t merely killed Wu Zhi, he had also fired two shots at Qiu Tu!


    The whole event happened so suddenly that even Qiu Tu himself hadn''t "reacted".


    By the time he did react, Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu had already rushed to his front, one ahead of the other!


    Then, two muffled "Bang!" "Bang!" sounds were heard.


    Two blooms of blood burst from Chen Feng''s shoulder and right chest.


    The assassin, perhaps confident in striking his target, saw Chen Feng block the shots and did not hesitate to fire several more rounds in Qiu Tu''s direction!


    It was then that people finally began to react, switching off safeties to retaliate!


    But as they aimed their guns in the direction of the gunshots, they shockingly realized... there was no sign of the enemy! Enjoy new adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    The initial gunshot had been very close, only a few meters away from Qiu Tu, Wu Zhi, and Ji Chen.


    And the subsequent shots, although moving, were... also nearby.


    Yet now, as they searched for the enemy, they couldn''t find anyone?


    Could the enemy be invisible? Or some kind of ghost?!


    While everyone was somewhat disoriented by the sudden event, Qiu Tu, holding the injured Chen Feng who had fallen to the ground, shouted, "Lay down cover fire! Cover fire!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, his confidants finally snapped to attention and hurriedly began firing a barrage at the direction from where the gunshots came.


    This tactic worked. Suddenly, blood sprayed from a shadow not far from the crowd, followed by a muffled groan from someone there.


    ```


    Seeing this, Song Qing, who had just been scared half to death, quickly cried out in alarm, "There! There!"


    Upon hearing Song Qing''s directions, even more bullets were discharged into that shadow! sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, this time everyone''s luck was not so good; despite firing many shots, they did not hit the enemy again.


    And that invisible enemy, perhaps due to the injury, did not attack anymore.


    Seizing the lull in the battle, Qiu Tu propped up Chen Feng and hid behind the car, then directed the others to take cover while remaining on guard.


    Like this, the group kept a vigilant watch over the battlefield for over ten minutes, and seeing that the enemy really didn''t reappear, they gradually started to breathe easier.


    After all, no one wanted to face such an unpredictable and invisible enemy.


    It was at this moment, suddenly, cries of anguish erupted from the battlefield, "Advisor Wu! Advisor Wu! Are you alright?"


    Accompanied by the wailing, Commissioner Wang crawled out from behind the car and then ran to Wu Zhi''s body.


    The incident had happened so suddenly that Wu Zhi was shot in the head, and everyone''s first reaction was to take cover, paying him no mind.


    Even later, when the detectives were shooting, they had avoided his body, preventing any further harm.


    But now that over ten minutes had passed, not even a divine doctor could save someone with a bullet through the brain.


    So, when Commissioner Wang picked up Wu Zhi, his body was already completely cold....


    At this moment, his eyes were still wide open, his face filled with disbelief.


    Clearly, even in the last moment of his life, he couldn''t comprehend why he had to die here.


    After all, although not nobly born, he was a native resident of the Sanctuary, with Sanctuary status. Distinguished in youth and esteemed by such an influential figure as Huang Shangzong.


    Moreover, with Huang Shangzong not only serving as a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council but also appointed as a Senior Frontier Official,


    everyone¡ªhimself included, as well as those who knew him¡ªbelieved his future was boundless!


    Even though he hadn''t aspired to reach a position like Huang Shangzong''s, he had dreamt of becoming the head of the Investigation Bureau and being influential in a city.


    Coming to Xinjie City this time, in his view, was just the beginning of his career. All he needed was to get rid of Qiu Tu, and a bright future awaited him.


    But now.... who would have thought he''d die here, right after obtaining some of Qiu Tu''s incriminating evidence, without even having exchanged a word with Qiu Tu?!


    Who was so daring? To ignore the wrath of Commissioner Huang Shangzong, to dare assassinate him¡ªthe ''special envoy'' charged with such an important mission?!


    Perhaps because of the many questions and unwillingness he had before dying, Wu Zhi''s eyes remained unblinking, glaring furiously at the heavens until his last breath....


    At that point, hearing Commissioner Wang''s crying, Ji Chen, who belatedly realized Wu Zhi had been shot, changed color and quickly strode over as well.


    Being from the Investigation Bureau after all, and with some experience in case handling, he merely touched Wu Zhi''s wrist to know it was beyond hope.


    ''This is bad....'' Ji Chen''s face turned extremely grim.


    The death of Huang Shangzong''s Advisor in Xinjie City was a matter that could be seen as big or small for the notables of Xinjie City.


    But for him, given orders by Yan Chen to host Wu Zhi, it was a calamity as if the sky had fallen.


    So he looked at Wu Zhi''s corpse with a troubled expression, his mind racing. After a moment, like grasping at a lifeline, he suddenly turned and glared fiercely at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! Advisor Wu died in your jurisdiction, how do you explain this!"


    "Was all of this orchestrated by you?"


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu remained silent. He made just one move: he put Chen Feng down, stood up, walked briskly to Ji Chen, and drew his gun!


    Then, with a "click," he pulled the gun''s bolt and pressed it directly against Ji Chen''s forehead!


    At that moment, the atmosphere, which had just relaxed, suddenly tensed up again!


    The guards brought by Ji Chen''s heart leapt, and then they all drew their guns!


    While they were quick to react, Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu, and others were even quicker!


    "What are you doing! What are you doing! Are you rebelling!"


    Accompanied by Cao Dabiao''s roaring, Qiu Tu''s confidants also drew their guns one after another, aiming at the guards!


    After all, Xinjie City had been established for almost a year and a half, and although there was still some chaos in certain areas, the overall danger was not high. Therefore, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi didn''t bring many people with them when they came.


    A dozen guards were not enough to stand up to the nearly thirty confidants of Qiu Tu, and the sheer numerical difference made them afraid to act rashly.


    So, within an instant, Qiu Tu''s men gained control over the situation.


    As if expecting the current situation, Qiu Tu never paid attention to the tense stand-off from the start.


    Instead, with the cold muzzle of the gun against Ji Chen''s forehead, he sinisterly said, "Director Ji, what did you just say? Please repeat it..."


    Qiu Tu may have disregarded the unfolding scene, but Ji Chen had taken everything in at a glance.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s faction gaining control and the remorseless gun at his forehead, coupled with Qiu Tu''s notorious behavior of acting above the law, he truly didn''t dare to bet that Qiu Tu was just bluffing to scare him. So, in an instant, he caved in...


    He forced a smile and said, "Minister Qiu, it''s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding."


    He hurriedly explained, "I was just a bit anxious earlier, so my words were careless."


    Seeing Ji Chen submit, Qiu Tu dropped the intimidation. He snorted coldly, then reached out to pat Ji Chen on the face, saying, "Director Ji. Some food can be eaten randomly, but some words must not be spoken carelessly!"


    "First, this is not within my jurisdiction."


    "I merely discovered the illegal and disciplinary violations of Director Bai, so I came to take him back for investigation."


    "My defensive perimeter is only the inside of the villa. Anything outside the villa has nothing to do with me."


    "Secondly, I don''t even know who this distinguished guest is. How could I possibly harm him for no reason?"


    "Lastly, that assassin, apart from wanting to kill this distinguished guest, quite obviously wanted to kill me too."


    "Those shots were fired at me without the slightest mercy."


    "If it weren''t for my subordinates taking the bullets for me, I might now be lying on the ground just like this distinguished guest."


    "I know you''re a bit anxious because you failed to protect the safety of this distinguished guest, but even if you''re anxious, don''t bite wildly!"


    Having finished speaking, Qiu Tu turned to look at Commissioner Wang, who had been so frightened by the drawn swords and crossbows from just before that he turned pale and dared not speak. Qiu Tu then squeezed out a hideous smile, "Don''t you agree, Commissioner Wang?"


    The "truth" of the matter was just as Qiu Tu had described, and furthermore, Qiu Tu still controlled the situation at the scene.


    So how could Commissioner Wang dare to utter a word of dissent?


    He immediately grinned, nodding continuously, "Yes, yes. Minister Qiu makes sense."


    After speaking, he turned to Ji Chen, scolding, "Director Ji, now that Advisor Wu has had an accident, we should be united to overcome this problem, instead of turning against each other."


    "You mustn''t lose your senses!"


    Commissioner Wang''s words sounded like a criticism of Ji Chen. But in fact, he was giving him a way out.


    So, upon hearing this, Ji Chen hurriedly nodded and agreed, "Yes, Commissioner Wang and Minister Qiu''s criticisms are right."


    "I indeed panicked earlier."


    Seeing Ji Chen had submitted,


    Qiu Tu also withdrew his menacing gun.


    He looked condescendingly at Ji Chen and then inquired, "The Advisor Wu you just introduced, who exactly is he?"


    "What does he do?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang glanced at each other.


    With Wu Zhi now dead, their plan to take down Qiu Tu certainly couldn''t be executed, and both of them couldn''t guess how the situation would unfold next.


    So they quickly put on a smile and gave a vague answer, "Actually, it''s not much. He was just an advisor from the Sanctuary coming for a routine inspection in our Xinjie City."


    "Inspecting various institutions and departments."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu uttered an "Oh" and then said, "Alright, you''d better make a call for reinforcements or report upwards now."


    "If you need my cooperation or testimony, you can come to me anytime. I should be working from Secretary Bai''s villa for the next couple of days."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu put away his gun, then waved to his confidants, "Let''s go, take Chen Feng with us. We''re withdrawing!" and then he walked back to the villa in a grand manner.


    At this time, looking at Qiu Tu''s imposing figure and his many followers,


    The expressions of Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang were complicated.


    If they had previously only heard of Qiu Tu''s ability to win over people''s hearts and knew that he had cultivated a group of loyalists without taking it too seriously,


    Then, after experiencing today''s events, for the first time, they truly felt the difference between Qiu Tu''s subordinates and the subordinates of a usual senior official ¡ª that is the kind who would obey only Qiu Tu''s orders and follow him through life and death as true confidants!


    With so many officials and directors at various high ranks willing to die for him, Qiu Tu was indeed growing more influential.


    ''He''s become a force to be reckoned with, becoming uncontrollable¡­''


    For a while, Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang had complex looks in their eyes...


    They watched as Qiu Tu and his people left, and regaining their senses, they finally remembered to call for help and report up the death of Wu Zhi!


    ------

 Chapter 248 Yan Chen Aims to Advance to Fourth Order! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu shot Wu Zhi in the face, an act far removed from sending Wu Zhi to his death without God or ghost noticing.


    Therefore, after deciding on how to deal with Wu Zhi, Qiu Tu had been contemplating how to kill him without arousing the suspicions of Huang Shangzong, Yan Chen, Commissioner Wang, and others. Your journey continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    It was at this time that Qiu Tu returned to his villa and met Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang told Qiu Tu that she had concocted two potions for him over the past few days, one odd and specific, which she gave to Xiao Bai to fixate his cataclysmic ability, and the other was a "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion." (Chapter 231)


    That bottle of "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion" reminded Qiu Tu: he still had a mighty weapon in his hand!


    It was the precious Cataclysmic Material he had salvaged from the "Salvage Game," "the overflowing spiritual entity of a Cataclysmic." (Chapter 152)


    This Cataclysmic Material had a miraculous effect: as long as it was integrated into the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion, the potion''s awakening success rate would be 100 percent. Moreover, it could only awaken the cataclysmic ability of "Shadow Walking."


    "Shadow Walking" was the unique ability of a Cataclysmic called "Lone Wolf" that Qiu Tu had once killed. The effect allowed one to hide and walk freely within shadows.


    There were no traces, nor sound, nor scent, and even the things carried would vanish as well.


    It was because of this ability that Lone Wolf became a famous gold-class assassin in the Planning Area!


    After advancing to a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu had thought about granting this ability to Eagle. (Chapter 216)


    But there was never a suitable opportunity.


    Now, wasn''t it precisely the time to use this treasure and ability?


    So, the next afternoon, after sending Tan Huimin away, Qiu Tu specifically called Eagle into his office and gave him the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion fused with "Shadow Walking."


    After drinking this Cataclysmic Potion, Eagle indeed became a Cataclysmic through "Mystery" means, and he also acquired the ability of "Shadow Walking."


    Afterward, Qiu Tu gave him two pieces of equipment: a handgun made by the United Front and a Cataclysmic treasure.


    That handgun was specifically kept by Qiu Tu after the United Front squad attacked him last time, intended for framing and entrapment.


    And that Cataclysmic treasure was the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" that Qiu Tu had once used.


    Qiu Tu was a person who liked to be thorough in his actions.


    If he was preparing for Eagle to assassinate Wu Zhi, he had to ensure that Eagle had a solid alibi.


    Otherwise, right after the assassination, if Yan Chen investigated and found that Eagle was conveniently not in the Bureau, wouldn''t that expose the scheme?


    But with the Uncompromising Simulacrum, Eagle had a double in the Bureau, which provided a perfect alibi.


    To make the play convincing, Qiu Tu also instructed Eagle to aim for a precise spot for the first shot and, after killing Wu Zhi, to immediately turn the gun on himself.


    Qiu Tu, now a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, was almost immune to handgun damage, so even if he was hit, it would at most be a superficial wound.


    Latter, Qiu Tu would intentionally tear open the wound a bit more, making himself look pitiable, and wouldn''t that make the act all the more realistic?


    In addition, Qiu Tu had arranged for Eagle to be shot in front of witnesses but planned to heal his wound using "Order Space" tonight.


    In this way, unless someone had God''s Perspective, trying to trace the assassination back to Eagle and then to Qiu Tu would be complete nonsense!


    Qiu Tu planned well, and the execution was flawless.


    The only slight surprise in the entire plan was... Qiu Tu hadn''t expected to hold such a high place in the hearts of his confidants.


    When they realized he was about to be shot, Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu didn''t hesitate at all and threw themselves forward, taking the bullets intended for him.


    Though... it seemed like those bullets were rather pointlessly borne, their actions did lend even more authenticity and talking points to the scene.


    So, Qiu Tu looked at Chen Feng with complex eyes. He said, "The wound''s position is off, no threat to life."


    "But... you''ll need some time to recuperate."


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then reassured, "Don''t worry, though, if I''m not mistaken, you should be back to your normal activities in a couple of days."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu patted Chen Feng''s uninjured shoulder and declared, "When you return to the Bureau, I will definitely promote you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the reticent Chen Feng cracked a grin and said, "Thank you, Chief!"


    "Huh?" Qiu Tu interjected, "Don''t call me Chief anymore. Call me Brother Tu."


    "Yes! Brother Tu!" replied Chen Feng, his obedience flowing like water.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile too. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After attending to Chen Feng''s wounds,


    Qiu Tu also stood up and instructed Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan to carry Chen Feng down to rest.


    As for himself, he sat in the living room for a little over a minute in a daze, and then he made his way to the room where Secretary Bai was being held.


    When he arrived at Secretary Bai''s bedroom, Qiu Tu pushed the door open and entered.


    Inside the room, Secretary Bai sat in a recliner, leisurely reading a book, while Li Xian and Ding Xiaoqi stood watch over him.


    Seeing Qiu Tu enter, the two quickly stood up and saluted, "Commander!"


    Qiu Tu nodded, then said, "You two step out for a while, I want to have a good talk with Secretary Bai."


    "Yes!" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the two stepped out of the bedroom, then closed the door from the outside with the back of their hands.


    After the room was left with only Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai slowly put down the book in his hand, then looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "Is the matter resolved?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "I don''t understand what you mean."


    Secretary Bai shook his head with a smile, and remarked, "You... your vigilance is really strong."


    He said, "I''m already your captive. What is there for you to fear?"


    Qiu Tu stated righteously, "I don''t even know what you mean, so there''s nothing for me to fear or not fear."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu didn''t continue on that topic, but instead asked, "Brother Bai, now that I''ve arrested you, can you tell me some things?"


    "Why exactly did you choose to side with the Evil God?"


    "In my mind, you are clearly not that kind of person."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai did not respond to his question at first but instead asked, "Today... did you see the Bureau Chief?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then said, "I didn''t go to the Bureau today, so of course, I didn''t see him."


    Secretary Bai said with a smile, "But... he must already know about you coming to see me yesterday."


    Qiu Tu was a bit confused about the meaning behind Secretary Bai''s words. He couldn''t help asking, "What does that have to do with our topic?"


    Secretary Bai first shook his head, then nodded, "It''s somewhat related. But you can also take it as small talk."


    He always acted in a calm and steady manner, methodical and composed.


    So he put down the book in his hand, then walked to the floor-to-ceiling window of the bedroom, looking at the scenery outside while saying, "Qiu Tu, do you know the levels of Cataclysmics?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, "I know. From First-Order to Fifth Order."


    "Fifth Order is the highest, First-Order the lowest. The higher the level, the deeper the fusion with one''s own path, and the more liable the spirit is to influence."


    "That''s why the Sanctuary has decreed that Cataclysmics can only reach up to Third Order."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned away from the window with a smile, then said,


    "That must be something Director Tang told you, right?"


    In the face of Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu saw no need to deny it, so he acknowledged with a "Hmm."


    Secretary Bai said, "What Director Tang told you isn''t wrong. But... that''s just the most orthodox path."


    "If all humans, all Cataclysmics, stop at the Third Order,"


    "Then when those terrifying Cataclysmic Creatures, Evil Gods, descend into the real world, what will humanity use to withstand them?"


    Qiu Tu asked in confusion, "Aren''t rockets, artillery, and nuclear bombs used for that?"


    Secretary Bai turned and looked at Qiu Tu with a laugh, "Those are means to be used in thinly populated areas or when it is absolutely necessary to defend."


    "What if Cataclysmic Creatures descend upon the Sanctuary, the Planning Area? What then?"


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze also revealed deep contemplation.


    Secretary Bai slowly continued, "So, in fact, the Sanctuary has also researched a Pseudo Fourth-Order promotion method over the years."


    "Normally, the spirit and strength remain at the Third Order. But when it''s time to fight, one can enter the realm of Fourth-order Cataclysmics at any moment!"


    Shocked by Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly realized the hint that Secretary Bai was giving him.


    He couldn''t help saying, "Is Yan Chen currently advancing to Pseudo Fourth Order?!"


    ----

 Chapter 249 Yan Chen Seeks to Slay God! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


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    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned back with a smile, yet he didn''t respond.


    With his hands clasped behind his back, he stood by the floor-to-ceiling window with an air of gentle refinement, gazing out at the landscape and said softly, "It''s started to rain."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but cast his gaze outside. Indeed, at some point, a fine rain had begun to fall.


    The rain, like threads, bridged heaven and earth, a tenuous connection between the celestial and the terrestrial, linking spirit and reality.


    Qiu Tu watched the veil of rain somewhat absentmindedly for a while before he snapped back to reality and inquired, "But... even if one is promoted to a Pseudo Fourth Order, what good does that do for Yan Chen?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Secretary Bai slightly furrowed his brows. Then he reminded, "It''s Director Yan..."


    At this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Right. So, what good does that do for Director Yan?"


    Qiu Tu added another sentence, "I heard from Director Tang that the appointment to positions in the Sanctuary has nothing to do with strength."


    "Those with high strength aren''t necessarily in high positions, and those with low strength aren''t necessarily in low positions."


    Secretary Bai nodded upon hearing this and said, "Director Tang is not wrong in what she says."


    "But... that''s all based on her experience telling you this."


    Secretary Bai slowly continued, "But don''t forget. What is Director Tang''s strength? A Third-Order Peak Cataclysmic, the utmost limit openly supported by the Sanctuary."


    "So, with her personal conditions, she doesn''t lose to anyone in terms of strength. Of course, she would feel the impact of strength isn''t significant."


    "Moreover... you should also be clear about Director Tang''s identity and background."


    Secretary Bai turned around, sat on a low cabinet by the window, and gazed directly at Qiu Tu, "In the whole of Xinjie City, no one is more legitimately born and bred than Director Tang."


    "Her father was one of the core founders of the Eighth Sanctuary, one of the highest-ranking officials in the Investigation Bureau."


    "Her status and position are even higher than Huang Shangzong''s."


    "With the strength she has demonstrated, her background, and her current position. The higher-ups of the Sanctuary are indeed grooming her as the core for the Sanctuary''s future."


    "Who would dare to obstruct her promotion?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s eyes widened involuntarily.


    Truth be told, he had considered that Tang Feifei''s identity and background were quite substantial. Especially after meeting Tang Feifei''s second uncle, he grew even more certain.


    But to be honest... he really hadn''t thought it would be this substantial.


    If one were to put Tang Feifei into Qiu Tu''s previous lifetime, she would be a bona fide red aristocrat, a princess-level VIP.


    Seeing his reaction, Secretary Bai smiled genteelly and then said, "You see. You''re still not thinking comprehensively enough."


    "Actually, there is one detail from which you can infer just how extraordinary Director Tang''s identity is."


    "The entire hierarchy above and below Xinjie City''s Investigation Bureau was built by the Bureau Chief''s own hands.


    "Whether it''s Deputy Director Yu or Vice Director Lai, they''re all his people. This also represents that both the ''combat department'' and ''administrative department'' within the bureau are comprised of the Bureau Chief''s confidants."


    "Plus, among the nine high-level officials, eight are the Bureau Chief''s confidants."


    "Under such circumstances, the fact that Director Tang still has a certain amount of influence in the bureau, and that the calculating Bureau Chief can still tolerate her presence, already suffices to prove the extraordinariness of her identity."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, feeling that it really was the case...


    At that moment, Secretary Bai continued to explain, "Going back to our earlier discussion."


    "For Director Tang, strength is not that important."


    He paused, "Or rather, for most mid and senior-level officials, strength isn''t that important either."


    "Even to the Bureau Chief, on a day-to-day basis, strength is not extremely important."


    "But... have you forgotten what time it is now?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu first was startled, then immediately had a realization.


    He exclaimed in surprise, "Is the Bureau Chief aiming for the position of Deputy Speaker in Dongye State?"


    Secretary Bai''s lips curled into a smile. He said nothing, yet everything was communicated without words.


    With this critical piece of the puzzle in hand, Qiu Tu suddenly felt as though all the pieces fell into place!


    His mind was racing!


    The strength of Cataclysmics might not be important under normal circumstances and might just offer a slight advantage during routine promotions.


    However, at the time of establishing a new state, it becomes somewhat significant.


    One must know that after the establishment of Dongye State, the highest-ranking officials from the three major powers of each city will automatically become members of the council.


    And from those forty-plus councilors, three will become Deputy Speakers.


    ```


    And the highest officials of each city were of the same rank; their strength and abilities were similar as well; even the backing they had in the Sanctuaries might not be much different.


    Choosing one over another was a matter of indecision.


    At this time, if Yan Chen were to advance to become a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, wouldn''t he stand out among the competitors in the Investigation Bureau''s hierarchy?


    Especially since Director Liu (the Investigation Bureau Chief of the state government), previously the most hopeful, had been vetoed by Huang Shangzong, he would very likely gain the full support of the Investigation Bureau''s faction.


    Moreover, the Sanctuary would consider the advantage of having a Fourth-order Cataclysmic to fall back on, so that in the future, even if an Evil God or Cataclysmic Creatures were to descend, Dongye State would have the strength to respond.


    Therefore, a chip that initially didn''t seem to matter much, when it fell onto the scale at this critical moment, suddenly became a heavy-weight chip that could influence the final outcome!


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu suddenly understood Yan Chen''s series of plans.


    ''Indeed, it''s Yan Chen... still the familiar tactics: stirring the greatest waves with the slightest change.''


    ''But... why is Old Bai discussing this with me?''


    ''Weren''t we talking about the Evil God Larilo?''


    ''What does Yan Chen''s promotion have to do with Lariro?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brain spun rapidly.


    After a moment, he felt goosebumps all over his body!


    He abruptly looked up at Secretary Bai.


    At this moment, Secretary Bai had at some point moved to a small table in the bedroom and started brewing tea.


    He was not in uniform today; his casual wear was in shades of white, exuding an air of suave and polished charm.


    Qiu Tu just watched him, kept watching...


    After a moment, he said, "I remember the Security Department once showed me intelligence on Yan Chen. It said he was suspected to be a ''Life'' or ''Immortality'' path Cataclysmic." (Chapters 42, 95)


    "So..."


    Before Qiu Tu could finish, Secretary Bai interrupted him, "The Bureau Chief''s Cataclysm Path is ''Life''."


    Qiu Tu suddenly bit his lip.


    He had guessed right!


    Yan Chen''s Cataclysm Path was ''Life'', and Lariro''s Cataclysm Path was also ''Life''!


    Therefore, the reason Yan Chen had Secretary Bai take refuge with Lariro, the reason he lured Larilo into the real world, was all because he wanted to devour Larilo!


    And the reason Secretary Bai was discussing Yan Chen''s potential promotion to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic with him was actually to tell Qiu Tu that Yan Chen planned to elevate himself to Fourth-order Cataclysmic by devouring Larilo!


    ''Damn! That''s just insane!''


    To be honest, last night, while diligently working with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu had also pondered many reasons why Yan Chen might have directed Secretary Bai to become an Evil God Cultist!


    He considered that Yan Chen had sent Secretary Bai to infiltrate Lariro to prepare for a clean sweep of her followers.


    He thought that Yan Chen, fearing death in his old age, wanted to obtain the method of immortality from Lariro.


    He even speculated that Yan Chen, like Jia Shu, wanted to cooperate with the Evil God to eliminate rivals but didn''t want to get involved personally.


    But... no matter which reason he considered, Qiu Tu felt something was unreasonable: after all, Secretary Bai''s position and potential were too high.


    To sacrifice Secretary Bai for the aforementioned benefits, setting aside whether Secretary Bai would agree, was a mismatch of investment and return even for Yan Chen himself!


    Now that he knew Yan Chen was actually plotting a deicide, planning to "eat" Lariro in one bite, everything suddenly made sense to Qiu Tu!


    If Yan Chen truly could commit deicide, truly ''eat'' Lariro, then the traces of being a follower would also disappear from Secretary Bai!


    So, Yan Chen could both advance to Fourth-order and keep Secretary Bai safe!


    However, realizing this, Qiu Tu suddenly found himself confused about when exactly Yan Chen had begun plotting all this.


    Had it been from the moment he arrived in Xinjie City? From when Larilo descended to this world? Or after he had discovered Larilo''s identity?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s expression turned ugly.


    While he was still contemplating how to outsmart Larilo, Yan Chen had already cunningly included Larilo''s variable in his plan, using her as nourishment for his promotion!


    And he had silently allowed Qiu Tu to strike at Larilo''s followers and weaken her forces! S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Was this the strategic expertise of an Old Fox?


    As Qiu Tu pondered this, suddenly, a green beam of light burst forth outside the window! It then shot from the ground straight into the sky!


    At the same time, the phantom of a great tree appeared over the entire sky of Xinjie City, covering 11,200 square kilometers!


    ----

 Chapter 250 The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then quickly got up and strode to the floorto-ceiling window of the bedroom, looking up at the sky.


    In his line of sight, the illusion of that massive green tree, much like a majestic mountain range, stood tall and stretched across the sky above Xinjie City! Its imposing figure reached for the clouds, seemingly connecting heaven and earth.


    The rain, like the green sap dripping off tree leaves, shone brightly reflected by the illusion, cascading from the crown of the tree to the ground, where it created ripples upon impact.


    Gazing at the magnificent spectacle he had never seen before, Qiu Tu''s face was filled with shock and disbelief, and he couldn''t help but mutter softly,


    "What... is this?"


    Hearing his words, Secretary Bai also picked up his teacup and slowly walked to the window, then, while looking at the giant tree illusion, he said indifferently, "This is an Illusion of the Law."


    "When a being reaches the Fourth Order, its spirit will become increasingly aligned with the path it follows."


    "And it will gain a part of the laws of the path it practices, eventually forming its own unique Illusion of the Law."


    "Once an Illusion of the Law is born, there are many benefits."


    Secretary Bai paused for a moment before continuing, "One, the being''s strength will be greatly enhanced."


    "Two, the lifespan of the being will also be significantly extended due to its alignment with the laws."


    "For instance, the average lifespan of an ordinary human is about 60-70 years. But once promoted to the Fourth Order, it is said one can live up to two hundred years."


    "Even if the lifespan of the physical body reaches its limit, one can transform into a spiritual entity, becoming a special existence similar to High Order Catastrophized Creatures, and continue to live."


    "At that time, the lifespan would be even longer. Exactly how much longer, no one can say for sure..."


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    Hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then took up the conversation, "But becoming a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver and giving birth to an Illusion of the Law must have its downsides too, right?"


    "Like...being influenced by the law, so thoughts and mentality are increasingly affected by the path one follows?"


    "Many actions must be more in line with the habits of one''s path?"


    Secretary Bai nodded with a smile, "Yes. That''s indeed the case."


    "That is also why the Sanctuary does not encourage officials to pursue great power."


    "Because the stronger the power, the higher the degree of assimilation by the path."


    "The ''Life'' path is still okay, but with paths like ''Chaos'' and ''Destruction'', you might turn into a madman, a pervert."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He continued looking up at the splendid illusion of the giant tree composed of countless light spots and then asked, "So, the Bureau Chief has succeeded in his promotion now?"


    "Has he devoured Larilo?"


    Secretary Bai also looked up at the giant tree illusion, then shook his head slightly, "Clearly not."


    "If First-order and Second-order Catastrophics can still be considered ordinary beings, then Third Order and Fourth Order beings are truly legendary creatures."


    "Thus, whether it is advancing from Second Order to Third Order, or from Third Order to Fourth Order, it''s not a simple process."


    He pointed to the giant tree illusion and said, "In cases like this, it''s estimated to continue for 10 days, half a month or so."


    Curious, Qiu Tu asked, "Won''t this alarm the ordinary residents of Xinjie City?"


    Secretary Bai laughed lightly and said, "Do you think this scene before our eyes is something ordinary people can see?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes widened slightly, and he began to guess.


    Sure enough, Secretary Bai explained, "This giant tree is actually the projection of the Bureau Chief''s Illusion of the Law in the Boundless Heart Sea. It only appears in the real world because its power is too overwhelming."


    "But even so, only those Catastrophics who have awoken ''Spiritual Vision'' can see it."


    "It''s invisible to ordinary people..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, having an epiphany: no wonder the confidants outside had no reaction, as if they couldn''t see the giant tree. It turns out they really couldn''t see it.


    And just as he was thinking this,


    Suddenly, his Communicator started "ringing."


    Qiu Tu felt his pocket and realized it was the special Communicator from the Security Department.


    Even without taking out the Communicator, Qiu Tu guessed who the caller was and the topic they were likely to discuss.


    Clearly, Qin Shuman had also seen Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, so she was ready to exchange some information with him.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu said to Secretary Bai, "Old Bai, I''ll step out to take a call."


    Secretary Bai took a sip of tea, nodded slightly, and gestured with his hand.


    Qiu Tu walked out of the bedroom with big strides.


    Outside the bedroom, Li Xian and Ding Xiaoqi were still on guard.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come out, both of them "snapped" to attention and saluted.


    Qiu Tu discreetly signaled towards the inside, they nodded, walked in, and continued to guard Secretary Bai.


    Although Qiu Tu trusted that Secretary Bai wasn''t someone who would run away or commit suicide or self-mutilation...you can never be too careful. Now that the person was captured, he definitely had to make full preparations.


    Especially since... Secretary Bai clearly knew a lot about the secrets concerning Yan Chen and Larilo.


    Qiu Tu still needed him to unravel puzzles for him.


    And thinking of Yan Chen, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a bit annoyed again: he had long known that Yan Chen was terrifying, but hadn''t expected him to be this frightening.


    Previously, Qiu Tu had only intended to investigate the Qin Family and deal with them, but he hadn''t expected that Yan Chen would take advantage of catching one of the "small fry," immediately reaping the biggest benefit of the entire incident: forcing the whole Qin Family into his ranks.

 Chapter 250 The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After Qiu Tu relaxed just a bit, Yan Chen took advantage of Vice President Tian''s mistress''s case, and got him to provide the Investigation Bureau with a full set of new surveillance equipment. Then, Yan Chen turned around and sold out Vice President Tian.


    Afterward, whether it was the "Evil God case" or the "8.19 Pharmacy robbery case," whether Yan Chen knew the information beforehand or learned the truth afterward, he always managed to gain huge benefits with just a few small moves.


    Even... the death of Jia Shu.


    It seemed that Qiu Tu benefitted the most, but in fact... Yan Chen also gained a lot.


    Not only did he replace a Head of the Political Department who was becoming disobedient, but he also successfully controlled all the candidates for the new Head of the Political Department within the circle of his confidants.


    That is to say, no matter who the new Head of the Political Department would be, it would be his own person.


    But that wasn''t all. He had again taken control of the Political Department and even managed to insert his own secretary, Ji Chen, into the Political Department, who took a three-level jump to become the Deputy Staff Director.


    He simply exploited every profitable aspect of the entire situation to the extreme.


    So ever since Qiu Tu transmigrated, even though he had been trying to undermine Yan Chen and attempt to dissolve his power,


    But... each time he made a move, Yan Chen would always find a new direction, then turn the crisis into an opportunity.


    Like this time with the devouring of Larilo and his rise to a Fourth-Order Cataclysmic. Qiu Tu guessed that this might also be the result of Yan Chen''s long-term planning.


    Qiu Tu was able to deduce Larilo''s target to be Yanyan after he learned about the various arrangements Larilo made in the past two years.


    With Yan Chen''s shrewdness, it''s very likely that he discovered Larilo''s arrangements earlier than Qiu Tu and successfully deduced that Larilo''s target was his daughter.


    Then... he didn''t make a fuss, didn''t counterattack, nor stop Larilo''s schemes; instead, he went with the flow and let Secretary Bai pledge allegiance to Larilo, helping Larilo complete the whole plan.


    Afterward, he rode the waves, helped Qiu Tu cut off several of Larilo''s limbs, forcing Larilo to only trust Secretary Bai, thus completely controlling Larilo''s actions...


    In the end, he completely dragged Larilo into his trap.


    This series of maneuvers was both cruel and cunning...


    He was like a silent spider, weaving a massive web for Larilo, then quietly watching as Larilo fell deeper until he was completely captured!


    The more he thought about it, the more Qiu Tu marveled at Yan Chen''s cunning and depth, sinister to a frightening level. So when he got to the end of the corridor, he picked up the phone, ready to chat with Qin Shuman about this topic.


    Once the call connected, Qin Shuman''s voice immediately came through the receiver, "Qiu Tu, did you see that Illusion of the Law?"


    Qiu Tu responded, "I saw it,"


    While speaking, he paused for a moment and then added, "Not only did I see it, but I also know the inside story of the matter."


    Qin Shuman had indeed called to discuss intelligence with Qiu Tu. So, hearing that Qiu Tu knew the inside story, her voice immediately carried a hint of joy, "You really do have special channels for information."


    "I didn''t make a mistake coming to you."


    Qiu Tu chuckled, not minding Qin Shuman''s praise, and didn''t quote a price¡ªgiven Qin Shuman''s intelligence, even if he didn''t mention it, she would offer a reasonable price.


    Therefore, he detailed how Yan Chen had schemed against Larilo and ultimately managed to devour her.


    After patiently listening to the entire inside story and its complexities, Qin Shuman on the phone was obviously stunned. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She fell silent for a good ten seconds before slowly saying, "I was earlier guessing which Cataclysmic caused this anomaly."


    "At first, I thought it was Director Tang, but unexpectedly it turned out to be Director Yan..."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but add, "It is quite surprising."


    Qiu Tu smiled and remarked, "Isn''t it."


    Perhaps because Qin Shuman was one of the closest people to Qiu Tu in this world, as they chatted, Qiu Tu''s mood actually relaxed a bit.


    Relaxed spirits led to faster thinking.


    So when Qin Shuman softly asked, "So Qiu Tu... what are you planning to do now?" Qiu Tu''s brain actually came up with some new ideas.


    He didn''t share his plans right away but instead asked a question, "Shuman. If I try to stop Yan Chen''s advancement now, will I be... by the Sanctuary...?"


    Before Qiu Tu finished speaking, Qin Shuman interrupted him, "Yes, and not just Eighth Sanctuary. You will become the public enemy of all Sanctuaries."


    "After all, regardless of what faction Yan Chen belongs to, his first identity is still a human."


    "His advancement to a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic in itself signifies the strengthening of the human race and the enhancement of human power."


    "So, if you dare to disrupt Yan Chen''s advancement, the various Sanctuaries will definitely charge you with ''Crimes against Humanity'' and put you on the wanted list."


    Continuing, Qin Shuman paused, then added, "Moreover, I don''t think you can interrupt Yan Chen''s promotion."


    "Not to mention that after learning this news, the military will certainly deploy heavy troops to help defend Yan Chen."


    "And as for him himself. He might seem to be advancing, but his strength is actually even more terrifying than before."


    "He who is in the midst of advancement now has probably established a small automatic defense domain. Any living creature entering that domain will be attacked."


    "So, without several Third-Order Peak Cataclysmics, I think it''s impossible to even get close to him." Find your next read at My Virtual Library Empire

 Chapter 250 The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, wasn''t particularly surprised. He said, "I understand."


    "In that case, it looks like we''ll have to resort to Plan B."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, an astonished Qin Shuman on the other end of the phone asked curiously, "Plan B? What is Plan B?"


    Gazing at the colossal tree''s phantom image in the sky outside the corridor window, Qiu Tu spoke softly, "Actually... whatever Yan Chen''s strength may be, with my current status, he can no longer get rid of me so easily."


    When Qin Shuman heard Qiu Tu''s words, she walked to the window, and gazing at the towering phantom of the great tree, she said, "Yes, after all, you''re the deputy division chief recognized by the Sanctuary."


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "So... in reality, whatever his strength is, its influence on me is minimal."


    "What truly affects me is the position he may hold in the future," he continued.


    "At the establishment of Dongye State, he was promoted to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, which makes it very likely for him to become the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State."


    Qin Shuman hummed in agreement, saying, "Yes, that''s very likely."


    Qiu Tu said, "Then this becomes quite simple."


    "If the position of Deputy Speaker is what can influence me, and not his strength, then why should I be terrified of his increase in strength? All I need to do is... prevent him from becoming the Deputy Speaker, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was momentarily stunned, then couldn''t help but ask, "But how can you stop him from becoming Deputy Speaker?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes were resolute as he stated emphatically, "It''s simple! Do everything possible to delay his promotion."


    "As long as he is promoted after Dongye State is established, he won''t be able to become Deputy Speaker, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s plan, Qin Shuman was clearly confused!


    Obviously, even she was startled by Qiu Tu''s audacious idea!


    She hesitated before saying, "Are you sure... this will work?"


    Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Although I''m not yet clear on how to delay Yan Chen''s promotion, I at least feel that the idea is correct."


    Pausing for a moment, Qiu Tu continued, "Moreover, delaying Yan Chen''s promotion time has two benefits."


    Curious, Qin Shuman asked as she looked at the colossal phantom through the window, "What benefits?"


    "First, the longer Yan Chen''s promotion is delayed, the less influence he''ll have in the newly established Dongye State," Qiu Tu explained.


    "The founding conference of Dongye State won''t wait for him, and those dozens of delegates won''t wait either."


    "By the time they''ve all taken their places and formed their different factions and power groups, even if he wants to join later, he won''t be able to become the core of any faction."


    "Additionally, his attempt to compete for the Deputy Speaker seat by ascending to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic will probably lead to him being treated differently among the various factions," he surmised.


    "All of this will affect his future development."


    Qiu Tu elaborated, "The second point is regarding his power and influence in Xinjie City."


    "The name of power may come from the upper echelons, but in reality, it comes from the grassroots." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The reason he can make things happen in Xinjie City and hold such sway is ultimately because he has confidants all over the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and his people are in all departments."


    "But now, because he''s preoccupied with his promotion, he won''t be able to appear at the Bureau... Isn''t that our and Director Tang''s opportunity?"


    "We can take this chance to insert our own people into the various departments, promote our confidants, build our own forces, and hollow out his power!"


    "This will be our chance for rapid development!"


    "As long as we seize this opportunity, we won''t be fighting alone in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau anymore; we could potentially stand toe-to-toe with him!"


    After a few seconds of thoughtful silence upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman sincerely marveled, "Qiu Tu, I must say... you didn''t get to where you are now by luck."


    "What was clearly a crisis has become a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in your hands."


    "Moreover, I actually believe you can turn the tide!"


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    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile and said, "Then I''ll take that as Major Qin''s auspicious words."


    After chatting briefly, the two of them hung up the phone.


    Listening to the ''beep... beep...'' from the handset, Qiu Tu put away his communicator and then looked up, gazing out the window at the vague silhouette of the giant tree in the misty rain.


    His whole plan was actually learned from Yan Chen.


    In analyzing Yan Chen''s various schemes, Qiu Tu had unexpectedly found that Yan Chen''s tactic of ''using one trend to combat another'' seemed exceptionally powerful.


    Everything has its dual nature. Therefore, one need not rush when an opponent makes a move; instead, try to leverage the opponent''s ''strategy.''


    Yan Chen''s advancement surprised everyone and could indeed catapult him to new heights, but it also had an obvious downside: the element of ''time.''


    If Qiu Tu could play his cards right with timing, perhaps he could really turn this major crisis into a significant opportunity!


    However, to accomplish this, Qiu Tu would need the help of two other people...


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took out his communicator again and dialed a few numbers.


    This time, after the number connected, instead of someone speaking, a ''beep beep'' sound played, as if the call were being transferred.


    After waiting a full ten seconds, just as Qiu Tu began to wonder if the call hadn''t gone through, a familiar and seductive female voice finally came through the handset.


    "Little man~~? What is it, you finally missed me?"


    Hearing the voice on the other end of the line, Qiu Tu''s mouth couldn''t help but curve into a slight smile.


    He said with a laugh, "Sister Liu. I''m calling you this time to ask for your help."


    -----


    To reach the goal of ten thousand subscriptions faster, the following chapters will probably merge three into two. But it''s still 10,000 words a day, so cast your Monthly Ticket!


    The next chapter will be between 23:00 and 24:00.

 Chapter 251 The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping on the other end of the phone laughed.


    "Giggle giggle~" She laughed so hard she was bending over backwards, "Indeed, with that heartless character of yours, you wouldn''t come to me if there wasn''t an issue~"


    She was quite aware of her own character, so after her laughter subsided, she spoke seriously, "Alright, tell me, my dear minister, what has brought you to me this time?"


    Even though Liu Fuping teased him, Qiu Tu wasn''t the least bit embarrassed. He said, "I have an important piece of intelligence that I''d like to pass through you to Director Liu."


    When Liu Fuping heard Qiu Tu''s words, she didn''t take much interest at first, asking, "What intelligence?"


    Qiu Tu replied seriously, "Yan Chen is currently advancing to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, plotting for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State."


    Indeed, the news was shocking enough to even startle Liu Fuping, who wasn''t very sensitive to intelligence.


    She didn''t bother flirting with Qiu Tu any further, and hurriedly confirmed again, "You''re saying Yan Chen is advancing to Fourth-order Cataclysmic? And she''s planning to compete for the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State with that?"


    After speaking, she seemed a bit puzzled, "But... what''s the direct connection between becoming a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and competing for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State?" Experience more content on My Virtual Library Empire


    Qiu Tu didn''t hold much hope for Liu Fuping''s intelligence analysis capabilities, so seeing that Liu Fuping couldn''t see through the game, he replied with a laugh, "Sister Liu, you just need to bring this intelligence to Director Liu. That''s all."


    "The rest, he will understand."


    Liu Fuping gave a couple of "Oh oh" sounds, then suddenly caught on.


    She asked indignantly, "Are you saying I''m dumb?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu "Ha ha" laughed out loud twice, then swiftly changed the subject, "By the way, what have you been up to lately, Sister Liu?"


    "Since you left Xinjie City, I''ve never heard from you again."


    "I even specially had people inquire about you in Eastern City, but to no avail."


    Qiu Tu was actually telling a barefaced lie.


    Since Liu Fuping''s departure, he had hardly thought about her at all.


    Moreover... before the establishment of Dongye State, each city was relatively independent, and Qiu Tu''s influence couldn''t reach Eastern City.


    So, he was completely hoodwinking Liu Fuping.


    But... women fall for this kind of trick.


    According to the "Emotional Fraud Manual," this is one of the "108 Ways to Enhance Affection: No. 10, Benign Lies."


    Whether the woman is smart or foolish, they share a common trait: they like sweet nothings.


    Even if they know the flattery is false, they still enjoy it.


    This is not only because women crave emotional value more than men do, but also because they easily fall into a strange logical loop: if he is willing to lie to me, it means he cares about me.


    As expected, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a lovely smile curved up the corners of Liu Fuping''s mouth on the other end of the phone. She was clearly very pleased.


    Even if she most likely guessed Qiu Tu was just comforting her, she still explained with a soft voice, "I didn''t leave my real name for you, so it''d be a miracle if you could find any news about me."


    "And besides..." she paused for a moment, then chuckled softly, "I''m not in Eastern City now."


    This change was indeed unexpected to Qiu Tu. He was stunned for a second, then inquired, "You''re not in Eastern City? Then where are you?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "I''m now in the Sanctuary."


    She went on, "With the imminent establishment of Dongye State, it signifies that those dozen or so Planning Areas of Eastern City, Xinjie City, will be integrated into a whole, officially entering the Sanctuary''s system."


    "Hence, the Sanctuary has demanded from Dongye State that the current chaotic legal system must come to an end. They require the establishment of a basic judicial system within the present Investigation Bureau framework."


    Saying this, Liu Fuping spoke with a hint of pride, "And Director Liu has recommended me to be one of the first members of this system."


    "I''m currently studying at the Sanctuary, striving to learn the basics of law within a month, memorizing legal provisions, and then following the Sanctuary-appointed judges to Xinjie City to establish a basic judicial system."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s remarks, to be honest, Qiu Tu felt genuinely surprised.


    Liu Fuping... was going to become a judge?


    And one of the first judges in the newly established judicial system of Dongye State?


    The value of this position really couldn''t be underestimated.


    Qiu Tu guessed that with the golden touch of the personnel sent by the Sanctuary, by the time Liu Fuping comes back gilt in gold, she might really be treated at the level of a Deputy Division Chief.


    However, when he thought that... this judicial system was established within the framework of the Investigation Bureau, thereby further strengthening the power of the Bureau, Qiu Tu felt a bit of a toothache.


    With this, the power of the Deputy Speaker representing the Investigation Bureau system, who would now hold the judiciary of Dongye State, would be tremendously intimidating. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And if Yan Chen actually became that Deputy Speaker, from then on, in Dongye State, Qiu Tu really would be at Yan Chen''s mercy.


    Considering this, Qiu Tu made up his mind once again: he had to stall for time, and not let Yan Chen become the Deputy Speaker.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu first congratulated Liu Fuping, "Then let me congratulate Sister Liu in advance!"


    "I''ll be waiting to give you a warm welcome when you come back to Dongye State. At that time, I will definitely throw a celebration for your return."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu immediately brought the topic back to the main point, "Then I''ll leave the matter of contacting Director Liu in your capable hands, Sister Liu. Please make sure the intelligence gets to him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping giggled, then said, "Don''t worry, young man~ I will make sure the intelligence is delivered."


    "I believe the Director will be interested."

 Chapter 251 The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    ```


    After she spoke, she also made a playful reference to what Qiu Tu had said about "washing the dust of travel," whispering with her voice lowered, "When I return to Dongye State, you really should throw a welcome back party for me~~~"


    "After all, I intend to come back ''fully loaded''...."


    Hearing the suggestive undertone in Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu felt his legs go straight...


    He coughed, teasing, "It''s only been a few days, Sister Liu, and you''re missing my buddy this much." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Liu Fuping giggled, then said, "I don''t miss him at all."


    "I''m just warming up in advance to ensure that someone hasn''t poured all of their ''spawn'' into someone else....."


    Indeed, chatting with a young widow could indeed lead to ever-expanding boundaries.


    Discover exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    Thus, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but join in, saying, "Well, rest assured. Just dare to show up, and I''ll let you know that not every stab in the back comes from a knife...."


    Liu Fuping, at the other end of the phone, blushed at Qiu Tu''s risqu¨¦ words, but even so, she couldn''t help the corners of her mouth curving upwards...


    Perhaps it really was true that blushing enhances one''s beauty; perhaps it was the settling of a decade-old grievance; or perhaps it was the awakening of her Cataclysmic ability, but having not seen her for a few days, Liu Fuping clearly looked even more beautiful.


    Her delicate features, like those of a work of art, had a kind of ineffable seductiveness. Because of her shyness, her eyes tilted up slightly, sketching out a naturally charming allure.


    Her new judge''s uniform added an exceptional charm to her appearance....


    And so, the already flammable conversation between the two became even hotter.


    By the end of it, Liu Fuping''s eyes were practically smoldering, and Qiu Tu himself was nearly ready to storm the Sanctuary and exact his own version of justice on her!


    After all... he had never had a taste of a female judge before!


    Thus, after chatting for a good fifteen minutes, Liu Fuping reluctantly took the initiative to end the call.


    According to her, the phone line from the Planning Area to the Sanctuary operated on a fixed schedule.


    Her long chat with Qiu Tu might prevent Director Liu from being able to contact the Sanctuary''s backend later.


    That could potentially cause Director Liu to be a step behind in establishing her position in Dongye State.


    So, even though she was reluctant, she could not continue the call any longer.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat reluctant as well, but he understood the importance of the matter. So, after cautioning Liu Fuping once more to report the intelligence to Director Liu, he had no choice but to hang up the phone.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu held the communicator in his hand, gazing out at the drizzle beyond the window. Thinking about Liu Fuping, who was on her way to great success, Qin Shuman who had already achieved it, and Tang Feifei and Shen Lingshuang, who were born at the pinnacle...


    He suddenly felt that the women around him seemed to be doing as well as he was, if not better.


    So... could he continue to feed off their success indefinitely?


    After dreaming about this for a while, Qiu Tu picked up the phone again and called Tang Feifei, another potential source of his freeloading.


    Tang Feifei on the other end of the line was clearly aware of the "Illusion of the Law" cast by Yan Chen that covered the sky of Xinjie City.


    So, even before Qiu Tu could speak, she preemptively brought up the matter.


    And after learning the ins and outs of the entire situation and Qiu Tu''s plans, Tang Feifei was clearly hesitant.


    After pondering for a long time, she finally asked, "How confident are you in your plan?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Almost none."


    Tang Feifei: ??


    For a moment, Tang Feifei thought she had heard wrong.


    But then she heard Qiu Tu say, "But... do we have a better option?"


    "We can''t stop Yan Chen from advancing, and after Yan Chen advances, our situations will obviously be more difficult."


    "So, why not give it a shot."


    "After all, the worst that can happen is Yan Chen successfully moving up and becoming the Deputy Speaker, which is no different from the current situation."


    "But if we succeed, we might be able to turn the tables against the wind."


    "Then, with the power of Dongye State at our backs, who knows, we might be able to fight Yan Chen outright."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Tang Feifei pondered for a moment.


    Then she suddenly spoke in a cool tone, "Qiu Tu... since you''ve heard a lot of secrets about Yan Chen from Bai Yu."


    "Then surely... he must have also talked about me, right?"


    Even though Tang Feifei phrased it as a question, she seemed certain of the answer, so she did not wait for any response from Qiu Tu before saying, "Actually... I don''t need to take this risk."


    "Coming to Xinjie City was a trial for me. My family deliberately placed me under Yan Chen to see if I could create an opportunity."


    "To put it plainly, they were using Yan Chen as a touchstone to polish me."


    "If I could carve out a space for myself under the shrewd and calculating Yan Chen, then I could gain more support and receive more investment."


    "And if I couldn''t, they would also have the option to transfer me elsewhere to further my development."


    Qiu Tu listened quietly to Tang Feifei''s words without much surprise: the world was inherently unfair; some people were born in luxury while others were born to toil.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei paused and then said coldly, "But... I don''t want to be transferred."


    "It''s not that I really care about support from my family. It''s... I''m too ashamed."


    "So... I''m willing to take a gamble with you."


    "You keep trying to delay Yan Chen''s advancement, and I will go have a chat with Yu Zhengyi."


    "Don''t be fooled by his old partnership with Yan Chen; he has also received favors from my father before."


    ```

 Chapter 251 The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "In the event that Yan Chen is unable to preside over the situation, as long as he, the Deputy Director of Administration, stands on our side, or refrains from expressing any opinions and just leaves it to Lai Shun, I can still keep things under control,"


    When Tang Feifei spoke these words, her tone carried no emotion, still remarkably cold. But Qiu Tu could still hear the imperious dominance in between the lines.


    Clearly, Tang Feifei, who had been lying low under Yan Chen for over a year, had finally revealed her fangs under Qiu Tu''s instigation.


    With Yan Chen present, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was almost like a solid plate; but with Yan Chen absent, even Secretary Bai, Jia Shu, were all unable to manage the situation, other senior officials were merely chunks of fat under Tang Feifei''s sharp teeth!


    ''Time, the crux of everything is time!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei meticulously analyzed the current situation of the senior management in Xinjie City following Yan Chen''s advancement and Secretary Bai''s arrest by Qiu Tu. After discussing who they could draw over to their side and who they had to suppress, they ended the call.


    After three consecutive phone calls, the anxiety Qiu Tu had felt due to Yan Chen''s advancement had almost entirely subsided.


    What replaced it was an overwhelming surge of ambition!


    Yan Chen, who had always been prudent and steady, was like a turtle shell, with no weaknesses to exploit. But now that Yan Chen had become greedy, taking a risky shot at competing for the role of Deputy Speaker, even though the chances of success were high, he had exposed flaws because of it.


    If that were the case, then don''t blame Qiu Tu for focusing on those flaws and turning the tables against the wind!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu had his confidants bring over a chair, and while he admired the light rain outside the window and waited with his communicator for Director Liu to contact him, he began to plan further....


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    While Qiu Tu was busy making arrangements due to Yan Chen''s advancement,


    The Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was also in a bit of chaos at that moment.


    Of course, the chaos was not due to Yan Chen, but rather the death of Huang Shangzong''s confidant Wu Zhi.


    On the 12th floor, inside Yu Zhengyi''s private office, sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yu Zhengyi sat on the sofa with a gloomy face, Commissioner Wang sat opposite him, while two senior deputy ministers of the Political Department, Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, sat next to Yu Zhengyi.


    In the middle of the office lay the corpse of Wu Zhi, as the four men looked solemnly at the Political Department investigators and directors busy around the body.


    Under these circumstances, Ji Chen could only stand off to the side with his hands down, not even entitled to a seat.


    Soon, the results of the reexamination of the body came out. The head of the forensic department approached the four men to report the results.


    "Director Yu, Commissioner Wang, Minister Cai, Minister Zhang, after our examination, we have confirmed that the cause of death for Advisor Wu was a bullet that penetrated his skull,"


    "And that bullet, we have already matched with all models and confirmed it to be a type privately manufactured by the Anti-Government Armed Alliance,"


    "As for the bloodstains at the scene, due to the washout from the rain and the chaotic situation at that time, we were unable to find them,"


    "Combining the descriptions of Commissioner Wang, Director Ji, and those present, we have roughly identified the perpetrator as the wanted criminal ''Lone Wolf''."


    After listening to the chief of the forensic department''s report, before Yu Zhengyi could speak, Commissioner Wang could barely hold back his impatience.


    He glanced at Yu Zhengyi and then said with a troubled expression, "Director Yu, right now it truly seems like everything''s coming together at once."


    "We were initially planning to seek advice from Director Yan, but who knew that at this very moment, Director Yan would advance to become a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and be temporarily unable to emerge from his seclusion,"


    "But we can''t keep suppressing the matter of Advisor Wu''s death. We must give Chairman Huang an explanation as soon as possible,"


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    "What do you think... who should take charge of this matter?"


    His words said "take charge," but in essence, he was asking who would "take responsibility." So for a moment, Yu Zhengyi''s face also looked rather unpleasant...


    ------

 Chapter 252 The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Everyone here has been immersed in the bureaucracy for many years, like old foxes, and they all know the most important rule of officialdom: Better to have the lower ranks grumble than to leave a bad impression on your superiors.


    Especially those superiors... who can decide your fate.


    In the past, the appointments of deputy directors and commissioners of various cities in the planning areas were decided by the Sanctuary''s General Investigation Bureau and the Administrative Commissioners'' General Conference.


    Therefore, deputy directors and commissioners used to seek favor with those bigwigs from the Sanctuary who could decide their fate.


    Now, with the establishment of Dongye State, the positions of deputy directors and commissioners of various cities will be decided and adjusted by the Dongye State Council.


    It is even said that after a transitional period, even the authority to adjust the positions of bureau chiefs and first commissioners will be progressively transferred to the State Council.


    As a result, the people whom the deputy directors and commissioners of various cities most want to please have immediately become Chairman Huang Shangzong, who is about to take office in the Dongye State Council!


    This is almost the shared thought of all the big shots from over a dozen cities in the planning areas.


    And now, before Yu Zhengyi has even had the chance to curry favor with this important person, he has to report this terrible news to him? Who can bear this?!


    Therefore, Commissioner Wang does not want to take on this responsibility, and of course, Yu Zhengyi doesn''t want to either.


    Even now, Yu Zhengyi is cursing Ji Chen in his heart: "He never comes to me for good things, but now I''m left carrying this big mess on my back."


    Even if the bureau chief is temporarily unable to make a decision due to other matters, there are two other deputy directors at the same level as him. For such a sensitive matter, why should he be the one to make the decision! This is clearly setting him up!


    Thinking this way, Yu Zhengyi couldn''t help but want to shift the blame away.


    So, he coughed and, without responding to Commissioner Wang''s words, used his best Tai Chi maneuver, dodging the issue, "Commissioner Wang... the thing is, I''m also troubled about this matter."


    "Wu Counselor suddenly had an accident. Our Director Yan is not around either. So right now, in the Investigation Bureau, nobody dares to make a call on this matter."


    "After all, who knows whether Director Yan will be satisfied with the outcome?"


    As he said this, as if he had just remembered something, he continued, "Oh, right, Commissioner Wang."


    "I recall that Wu Counselor came to Xinjie City specifically to visit you, and you were a witness to the entire attack. Perhaps... you could make a decision?"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Commissioner Wang''s chubby face immediately showed signs of distress.


    He waved his hands repeatedly, "No, no. You''re kidding, Director Yu. I, a commissioner in charge of civil affairs, know nothing about handling cases."


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    "Even if I report to Chairman Huang, I won''t have any credibility."


    "Therefore, it is still necessary for your Investigation Bureau to provide a comprehensive case report and personally report to Chairman Huang."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s reply, which was as evasive as his own, Yu Zhengyi pursed his lips.


    At this point, willing to discard his own reputation just to shift responsibility, he coughed again and then said, "Commissioner Wang, that''s not right. Our Investigation Bureau operates under the leadership of your Municipal Committee."


    "For such major cases, according to the normal process, we will have to hand it over to the Municipal Committee for review after a thorough investigation."


    "Only if you find no problems can we close the case."


    "So, the person to make the report really should be you, Commissioner Wang."


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Commissioner Wang''s face turned a shade greener.


    What Yu Zhengyi said was not wrong; according to the rules of the Sanctuary, the Investigation Bureau does indeed need to comply with commands from the Municipal Committee.


    But! The problem is that the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has never actually listened to them! S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The highest official of the Municipal Committee, Commissioner Jiang, whose backing was not very strong to begin with and who was relatively soft in character, never had as much influence in Xinjie City as Yan Chen and Ye Mingfeng.


    Therefore, both the military and the Investigation Bureau have always ignored the Municipal Committee, merely tolerating a few noncommittal criticisms.


    But now, with a major incident occurring, the Investigation Bureau suddenly became a subordinate to the Municipal Committee?


    If it weren''t for the fact that he knew he couldn''t physically overpower Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang would honestly like to strangle him right now!


    But Yu Zhengyi was right; Wu Zhi had initially sought out Commissioner Wang, and Wu Zhi''s entire itinerary in Xinjie City was managed by Commissioner Wang.


    So... in theory, it really should be Commissioner Wang who reports the matter.


    As such, Commissioner Wang could not directly confront him. Instead, he had to cleverly maneuver, "Director Yu, you jest. Commissioner Jiang always tells us that the Investigation Bureau is our brother institution and possesses strong autonomy."


    "Therefore, since the establishment of Xinjie City this past year, we have never interfered with the affairs of the Investigation Bureau, even treating the occasional document needing approval as a mere formality."


    "And the purpose of Wu Counselor''s visit to Xinjie City was for internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau."


    "He met with an accident while being escorted by the Investigation Bureau''s security, right in front of Minister Qiu and Director Ji."


    "Moreover, you are the professionals, so I think it''s still more appropriate for you all to make the report..."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s equally shameless words, Yu Zhengyi chuckled without responding.


    He had realized that Commissioner Wang was as slippery as an eel; their back-and-forth would never yield any result.


    Hence, if they kept dragging their feet and didn''t report to Huang Shangzong, both would be doomed eventually.

 Chapter 252 The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    But letting him admit to this matter and report it just like that left him feeling somewhat reluctant.


    Therefore, he had no choice but to fall into silence for the moment, contemplating another way to resolve the issue.


    With him not speaking, Commissioner Wang naturally did not speak either. For a time, the atmosphere in the entire office cooled down.


    All the forensic investigators and their supervisors stood there carefully, not daring to make a sound.


    Even potential upper-level figures like Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, and confidants of Yan Chen like Ji Chen, did not dare to make a move, afraid of bringing trouble upon themselves.


    And just when the office was dead silent and the tension was so thick that even the drop of a pin could be heard,


    suddenly, the door to Yu Zhengyi''s office was violently kicked open from the outside.


    With a loud "bang!" the door forcefully hit the wall.


    Everyone was startled and turned to look at the entrance.


    It was at this moment that a woman''s chilly voice also rose in everyone''s ears, "Such a small issue and you keep passing the buck. Do you not have any sense of duty as higher-ups in the Investigation Bureau and City Hall?"


    "If none of you dare take responsibility, then let me bear it!"


    Accompanying those dominant words, the figure of a woman with her entourage also appeared before everyone''s eyes.


    The woman was slender and agile, and that perfectly fitted uniform added to her stature; just one look was enough to sense her healthy physique and inner confidence.


    Opposite Yu Zhengyi''s office was the corridor window, and it was now noon. Although it was a bit misty due to the rain, the scattered sunlight shone on the woman''s silhouette. It still made her look like a goddess of victory.


    Hmm... and it also highlighted the small girl standing next to her, like a cute little potato...


    "Director Tang," "Good afternoon, Director Tang!"


    There were quite a few sharp-eyed investigators present, so when they recognized the newcomers as Tang Feifei and her secretary Su Xiaowan, they all greeted them.


    By this time, Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang, and Cai Peiyuan among other mid-level and senior officials also noticed Tang Feifei.


    They stood up.


    Then Yu Zhengyi looked at Tang Feifei and asked, "Director Tang, what brings you here?"


    After speaking, he didn''t even care about the office door that nearly got wrecked by Tang Feifei but directly asked, "You just said you wanted to take responsibility for this matter?"


    "How do you intend to take responsibility?"


    Upon hearing the greetings from everyone, Tang Feifei nodded coldly, which was her way of responding. Then she didn''t answer Yu Zhengyi''s question directly but waved at him instead, saying, "Old Yu, come out for a second."


    After that, Tang Feifei, with her long legs, turned and walked toward the corridor.


    Since they were on the same level and Tang Feifei had a deep background, being called "Old Yu" by her did not make Yu Zhengyi feel slighted.


    After a moment of thought, as if he had realized something, he hesitated for a moment. Then he gave Commissioner Wang an apologetic smile and stepped out following her.


    At the office entrance, Yu Zhengyi gave his secretary a look, who swiftly reached out to close the door, muffling the sounds within.


    Only then did Yu Zhengyi proceed to follow Tang Feifei.


    By then, Tang Feifei was already standing still in the corridor. She directed Su Xiaowan to the other end of the corridor to keep watch, and then turned her sharp gaze towards Yu Zhengyi as he approached.


    Sensing Tang Feifei''s piercing look, Yu Zhengyi instinctively felt that there was something different about her today. Compared to her restraint and patience over the past year, was today''s Tang Feifei showing a hint of her edge?


    While Yu Zhengyi was thinking this, Tang Feifei looked at him and took the initiative to say, "Old Yu... even though you and Yan Chen are old colleagues,"


    "But... I remember my father once had a period of mentoring you, right?"


    When Tang Feifei suddenly brought this up, Yu Zhengyi, who was adept at playing it safe, felt "thump" in his heart, suddenly having an ominous premonition.


    Sure enough, Tang Feifei didn''t wait for his response and directly looked at him, then said, "I want to make a small deal with you."


    "I can help you take the hit for ''Wu Zhi''s death,'' but I also hope you can do me a favor. A small one..."


    Towards the end, Tang Feifei narrowed her eyes, casting a gaze towards Yu Zhengyi that resembled that of a hunting leopard... Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yu Zhengyi: ...


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    He tried to keep his expression as calm as possible, then after a moment of hesitation, he finally said, "You go first..."


    .....


    While Tang Feifei was executing Qiu Tu''s plan to control Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and marginalize Yan Chen,


    Qiu Tu finally received a call from Director Liu Xiongyuan of Eastern City.


    Qiu Tu had contacted Liu Xiongyuan once before and knew that this legendary figure from the Planning Area had a different demeanor than most politicians he had dealt with.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s cunning and Commissioner Jiang''s ruthless perseverance, Liu Xiongyuan was more like a volatile old man.


    Qiu Tu had seen photos of Liu Xiongyuan: he was dark in complexion, his skin like tempered steel, and his personality was like a volcano on the verge of eruption, always seemingly a second away from losing his temper and lashing out.


    Qiu Tu had heard that as a division chief, the old man had once gotten into a fistfight over a disagreement with a department head, resulting in a disciplinary warning.


    After becoming a bureau chief, his temper had not settled much. The Municipal Committee of Eastern City was often a scene of conflict because of him.


    So, facing this fiery old man, Qiu Tu knew that beating around the bush would only annoy him.

 Chapter 252 The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    So when Qiu Tu picked up the phone, he didn''t even bother with small talk and directly blurted out all the information on Yan Chen to Liu Xiongyuan.


    And when he heard that Yan Chen wanted to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and then compete for the Deputy Speaker position, the little old man really exploded with curses, Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Goddamn it, that son of a bitch Yan Chen, I knew he wasn''t holding in any good farts!"


    "After that bastard Huang Shangzong got me kicked out, that motherfucker just wants to pick peaches! Doesn''t he even piss to see if he''s fucking worthy!"


    "If it weren''t for the fact that he contributed to the Human Race, I''d have gone up there and sorted him out myself!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


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    Although last time he called, Liu Xiongyuan''s speech was laced with three swear words per sentence, Qiu Tu was still impressed upon hearing that majestic litany of curses.


    No wonder... Eastern City''s Municipal Committee is always at each other''s throats. Even the most even-tempered person would want to start a fight after being cursed out by Liu Xiongyuan every day.


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Xiongyuan continued, "Also, rest assured. Since you''ve told me about this, I definitely won''t sit idly by."


    "Your plan to delay things is good, but it''s not big enough."


    "Just preventing him from becoming Deputy Speaker, that''s fucking letting him off too easy!"


    "You wait till I come over today, I''ll have a good chat with you, and we''ll plan something big!"


    "Forget Deputy Speaker, I''ll fucking make sure he can''t even become a council member!"


    Qiu Tu:??


    Honestly, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt strangely uneasy: by pulling this raging tempest, Liu Xiongyuan, into this game, was it the right or wrong move...?


    God damn, I hope this doesn''t blow up too much to handle!


    And as Qiu Tu thought this, Liu Xiongyuan, as carelessly as ever, said, "By the way, haven''t you joined a faction since you entered the Investigation Bureau?"


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu paused, asking, "We have factions within the Investigation Bureau?"


    The old man laughed scornfully, "Where there are people, there''s Jianghu; where there are officials, there are factions!"


    "You still doubt this?"


    "No wonder you''ve been bullied by that bastard Yan Chen and the old turtle Huang Shangzong! You''re fighting alone; who else would they bully if not you!"


    After speaking, he paused, then added, "Since you avenged Little Kai and now you''ve told me such important information, I will definitely not let you down."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll introduce you to a big shot tonight after I come over!"


    "As long as you gain his approval, forget Yan Chen; even that old turtle Huang Shangzong won''t be worth a damn to you!"


    Qiu Tu:....


    What could Qiu Tu say? He could only awkwardly chuckle and respond, "Thank you, Director Liu. I''ll wait for you tonight."


    Liu Xiongyuan laughed "haha" twice, and then said, "Alright, see you tonight! Then we''ll discuss together how to deal with that son of a bitch Yan Chen and that old turtle Huang Shangzong!"


    After saying this, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu to say goodbye before he hung up the phone, obviously in a rush.


    Hearing the "beep...beep..." from the receiver, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly.


    After this second call with Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu felt he was starting to understand the old man''s true temperament.


    Despite the old man''s foul language and carefree appearance, he was actually thoughtful and had depth.


    That rough talk was just a facade, not only allowing him to be underestimated but also enabling him to control the pace of the conversation forcefully.


    ¡ª Like just now, Qiu Tu couldn''t even get a word in edgewise, and Liu Xiongyuan had steered the conversation and made decisions on his behalf in just a few sentences.


    Moreover... just as Qiu Tu informed Liu Xiongyuan about Yan Chen''s promotion to Fourth-order Cataclysmic as "intelligence" and earned a favor, was Liu Xiongyuan''s introduction of Qiu Tu to his backer really just repaying a favor?


    Qiu Tu thought not.


    Considering the Sanctuary''s big shot was willing to take Liu Xiongyuan under his wing, that big shot probably appreciated people like Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu, who were of humble origins but had extraordinary abilities.


    So, introducing Qiu Tu to that big shot, for Liu Xiongyuan, was not only costless but could even earn him favor in the eyes of that big shot.


    As for the big shot''s power...


    Honestly, Qiu Tu believed the big shot''s status must be high, but probably only similar to Huang Shangzong''s, or maybe just slightly higher.


    If it were really like what Liu Xiongyuan said, that aligning with that big shot would allow him to walk sidewise, then Liu Xiongyuan wouldn''t have been vetoed by Huang Shangzong for the Deputy Speaker''s seat.


    Of course, even so, that big shot was likely the highest-ranking person Qiu Tu could contact at the moment, and perhaps a little help from him could change all of Qiu Tu''s current circumstances...


    ''Indeed... they are all millennia-old foxes. These tricks come one after another....''


    ''I still have much to learn....''


    Feeling this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but start to look forward to the meeting with Liu Xiongyuan and the big shot from the Sanctuary tonight....


    Moreover....


    Apart from meeting these two important individuals tonight, Qiu Tu also had another important matter to attend to.


    That was to try and make contact with the Evil God Girl Lara.


    Although currently Lara seemed to be completely controlled by Yan Chen and was being Devoured by him, soon to become fuel for Yan Chen''s advancement,


    Qiu Tu always felt... with Lara''s cunning, things couldn''t end so simply.


    Or perhaps... even if Lara really took a nasty blow from Yan Chen, she must still have one or two aces up her sleeve to prolong her life forcefully.


    So, Qiu Tu thought if he could contact Lara, maybe he could gain an unexpected windfall?


    Moreover, honestly, Qiu Tu was really curious to know what kind of state and mood the Heretic Goddess Girl would be in after knowing she had been schemed against by Yan Chen....


    ------


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words, the next chapter updates between 23-24 o''clock.

 Chapter 253 Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Boss~ Boss~~"


    Just as Qiu Tu was pondering over everything he had to do tonight, suddenly a girl''s gentle call rang in his ear.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality, then turned around and saw at the corner of the corridor, the girl Song Qing peering at him sneakily.


    Clearly, she was the one who had been calling him.


    Qiu Tu raised his handsome eyebrows, then asked, "What are you doing there?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Song Qing giggled, then scuttled over while crouching.


    When she reached Qiu Tu''s side, she said with a cheerful smile, "Boss, I saw you were on the phone just now, so I didn''t dare come over."


    "Then when I saw you weren''t on the phone anymore, that''s when I called you. I wanted to make sure you weren''t busy before I came looking for you."


    Qiu Tu looked down at her and asked curiously, "Since when have you become so considerate?"


    Song Qing chuckled, then said, "My dad said that. He said you are a big shot now, and big shots definitely have a lot of secrets. So there are things I shouldn''t watch, say, or ask."


    "Being around a big shot like you, the more you know, the quicker you die."


    Qiu Tu burst into laughter upon hearing Song Qing''s words.


    He said, "Your father is quite interesting."


    He then asked back, "So do you think I''ve changed after my promotion?"


    Song Qing thought for a moment, then shook her head, "I haven''t really felt any changes."


    "You still have the same taste as always, liking young wives."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu gave Song Qing a knock on the head and said irritably, "What nonsense are you talking about? When have I ever liked young wives?"


    Song Qing grimaced in pain, then held her little head with both hands and said innocently, "But I''m not wrong."


    "You were all ambiguous with Sister Liu before. After Sister Liu left, you surrounded yourself with Sister Tan."


    "And you dare say you don''t like young wives?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu said in a serious tone, "That''s not liking young wives. Besides, Tan Huimin is not my person, she is just my secretary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing secretly rolled her adorable eyes, then pursed her lips and whispered, "Ah, yes, yes, the secretary."


    "You big shots sure know how to have fun."


    "Having the secretary do the work when there''s business, and messing with the secretary when there''s none¡ªI get it, I get it...." S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu felt that this girl was like a mango, yellow on the outside and yellow on the inside.


    Young as she was, who knows what she was thinking about all day long.


    So, Qiu Tu couldn''t be bothered to babble on with the girl and instead asked, "What are you here for?"


    Song Qing rubbed her forehead, then said irritably, "Your utterly disinterested in large-breasted, big-bottomed, tempting and beautiful young wife secretary has arrived."


    Qiu Tu:....


    "Off you go!"


    "Bring her here to me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing toddled off to the main entrance, wiggling her little butt.


    Truth be told, perhaps as his status rose, the people around Qiu Tu respected him more and more.


    Even highly loyal confidants like Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng were somewhat nervous in Qiu Tu''s presence.


    To have someone like Song Qing who hadn''t changed at all and still dared to chat and joke with Qiu Tu was indeed rare.


    Especially since Qiu Tu was now busy and tired with a lot on his plate, sometimes teasing the young girl for fun served as a pastime.


    And as Qiu Tu was thinking this, the girl Song Qing walked in with Tan Huimin from outside.


    Today, Tan Huimin wore her standard secretary outfit and a young wife''s bun hairstyle, revealing her fair swan neck.


    The whole attire made her look professional yet gentle and dignified. She just didn''t look like an Investigation Bureau investigator....


    As Qiu Tu appreciated Tan Huimin up and down, Song Qing also brought Tan Huimin to face Qiu Tu.


    She saluted Qiu Tu and then said with all seriousness, "Boss, your utterly not interested....ouch!"


    With a twist of her butt, Qiu Tu knew that she hadn''t held back a fart, so he quickly gave her a knock on her head to stifle the string of prefixes she had started on.


    "Go, go, go!"


    While listening to Qiu Tu''s teasing scold, Song Qing made a face at Qiu Tu and then scampered away. ¨q(¨s^¨t)¨r Enjoy new adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    After watching Song Qing leave, Tan Huimin smoothed the stray hair beside her ear, then turned to Qiu Tu and asked, "You get along quite well with Investigator Song?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took a deep look at her and then said with a deliberate smile, "The relationship is quite good. After all... she''s one of my earliest subordinates."


    "Besides, it''s really rare to encounter someone with such an innocent and cheerful personality in the Planning Area. Every time I see her smile, I feel genuinely happy."


    "She''s like... a sister to me."


    Of course, Qiu Tu was being insincere.


    Song Qing had absolutely no personal relationship with him; she was at most a subordinate with a good rapport.


    He was just used to digging pits in front of others.


    Having no weaknesses, he would just dig a pit and create a false one.


    Tan Huimin''s identity was too complicated now, and no one knew who could get information from her.


    Anyway, those interested in Qiu Tu''s weaknesses were probably up to no good, so it was a triumph for him to trap anyone he could.


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu thought this, Tan Huimin turned thoughtfully to glance at Song Qing''s retreating figure again...


    After that, she turned back to Qiu Tu, and with a lowered gaze and a pleading tone, said, "Boss... I know there''s some conflict and misunderstanding between you and Ah-Tao."


    "But he really doesn''t have any ill intentions. Please let him go...."

 Chapter 253 Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After finishing, Tan Huimin "thump" knelt down in front of Qiu Tu, then lowered her head and started crying.


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu felt that the shocks he had received that day were already enough, the information he had taken in already plenty.


    However, Tan Huimin''s sudden action still left him somewhat stunned.


    He took a step back, then rubbed his temples, a bit speechless, and said, "Wait a moment. You want me to let Director Zheng off?"


    "I''m a bit confused?"


    "I didn''t lay a finger on Director Zheng today."


    Now, in front of Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu didn''t seem to have much credibility.


    Hence, Tan Huimin completely disregarded Qiu Tu''s defense; she grabbed her own collar with both hands and then violently pulled, popping several buttons off and revealing her lush, fair skin.


    Tan Huimin looked up, her face tear-stained and humiliated, and she said with a choke, "Chief, I know you''ve always had dishonorable intentions towards me."


    "As long as you let Ah-Tao go, you can do whatever you want to me."


    Qiu Tu: !!


    Qiu Tu was truly defeated!


    The people around him, one after another, were misunderstanding his preferences!


    Song Qing suspected he liked mature women, Tan Huimin thought he had dishonorable intentions towards her!


    But Qiu Tu really wanted to explain one thing: Everything he did was only for investigating the case, to root out the spy!


    He truly was a gentleman!


    So, he quickly reached out to pull Tan Huimin up and then said gravely, "Ma''am, what is this you''re doing!"


    "Considering the corridor is bustling with people, let''s talk inside the room...."


    "As long as you cooperate nicely, I''m not incapable of letting Director Zheng off...."


    .....


    Old Bai was now under Qiu Tu''s control, so naturally, Qiu Tu could commandeer any room in the villa.


    Therefore, after Qiu Tu fixed Tan Huimin''s collar, he took her to an unoccupied bedroom.


    Upon entering the bedroom, Qiu Tu locked the door behind them.


    Tan Huimin then consciously began unbuttoning her blouse.


    Shortly, the blouse came undone, revealing Tan Huimin''s ample Monthly Ticket and the profound ravine.


    Paired with that white lace bra and delicate waist, not to mention... it was a spectacular sight.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on her for a moment, then he spoke, "All right, there''s no one here. Tell me what happened to Director Zheng."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, who was about to take off her form-fitting mini skirt, paused and then looked at Qiu Tu with confusion.


    Qiu Tu brushed past her and made his way to a rocking chair by the window. As he sat down, he looked toward Tan Huimin, who had stopped undressing, and said, "Well? If you don''t tell me, how can I save Director Zheng."


    Tan Huimin gave Qiu Tu a somewhat strange look upon hearing this, then she said with doubt, "It really... wasn''t you who did it?"


    Because she was still bent over, the act of breathing made her already ample Monthly Ticket look as if it was nearly bursting free...


    The pleasing view even made Qiu Tu feel relaxed. He said, "Does it matter whether it was me or not?"


    "Isn''t it enough that I can help you?"


    When she heard Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin thought it made sense, so she quickly approached Qiu Tu and told him everything that had happened to Zheng Tao in detail.


    Possibly because she needed Qiu Tu''s help, or knowing that her body was her only value at this point, she did her utmost to please Qiu Tu as she recounted the story.


    Not only did she lean over to offer Qiu Tu the most beautiful view, but she even proactively massaged his legs.


    Though her movements were clumsy, being the enemy''s wife added to her appeal, coupled with Tan Huimin''s exquisitely curvaceous yet sensuous body that was on display, which made for full emotional value.


    And through Tan Huimin''s narrative, Qiu Tu also roughly learned what had happened with Zheng Tao, or rather, within the Investigation Bureau.


    According to Tan Huimin, it was as if... the heavens of the Investigation Bureau had changed.


    While Qiu Tu was making calls, planning his confrontation with Yan Chen,


    Tang Feifei was not idle either.


    In these past few hours, she began frantically executing her and Qiu Tu''s plan.


    She first led a team into Yu Zhengyi''s office, then called him out for a talk that lasted 15 minutes.


    No one knew what was discussed during the meeting, but everyone was aware of its outcome: Yu Zhengyi had defected.


    He betrayed Yan Chen and sided with Tang Feifei''s camp.


    Although he did not explicitly support Tang Feifei''s decisions, he also did not oppose them. He began to watch coldly from the sidelines.


    Afterwards, Tang Feifei began her path to power.


    She first took over the case of Huang Shangzong''s confidant Wu Zhi, then had her people re-examine the body at the crime scene and perform another autopsy on Wu Zhi.


    After confirming that Wu Zhi had indeed been killed by a powerful force and the bullet came from United Front, with all features of the killer matching those of a wanted fugitive "Lone Wolf," she promptly closed the case.


    Following that, she began the purge within the Investigation Bureau, using the case as a pretext.


    Firstly, she suspended Ji Chen, Yan Chen''s confidant assistant, on grounds of gross incompetence.


    Then, based on evidence signed and found in Wu Zhi''s personal documents, she detained people under the guise of "framing and sabotage against the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau."


    Next, using Yan Chen''s present ill-health as an excuse, she convened a meeting of the Investigation Bureau''s high-ranking officials to determine future work deployment. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


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    The senior officials attending the meeting, apart from her and Yu Zhengyi, included only Deputy Director Lai Shun, Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin, Public Security Bureau Director Guan Weihua, and Special Service Department Director Lin Ting.


    Out of the original nine top-ranking officials, some had died, others were captured, some were in retreat, leaving only these six.

 Chapter 253 Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    As soon as the meeting started, Lai Shun and others wanted to sarcastically comment on Tang Feifei, saying that she was utterly unqualified to preside over the meeting or to oversee the work of the Investigation Bureau.


    But Tang Feifei simply produced two documents.


    The first was the authorization to "arrest Secretary Bai" from the Sanctuary, obtained by Qiu Tu and her the night before.


    The second was Wu Zhi''s case closure report. Experience tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    Then, she made only three statements.


    The first was, "Bai Yu is suspected of colluding with an Evil God, and we now suspect that there are followers of the Evil God among the senior ranks."


    The second was, "Wu Zhi''s case closure report is here, some people want to oversee the big picture at the Investigation Bureau. Fine, no problem. Then please report to Huang Shangzong on your own."


    The third was, "I''ve finished speaking, and now while Director Yan is absent, I''d like to temporarily preside over the major affairs of the Investigation Bureau. Who supports, and who opposes?"


    After these three statements, the meeting of senior officials was almost dead silent.


    The first statement was a blatant threat: if she could arrest Bai Yu, then of course she could control the senior officials present.


    Even if they later found they had arrested the wrong person and then released him, the arrested official obviously wouldn''t be able to preside over work. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The second statement clarified that the situation at the Investigation Bureau wasn''t stable and smooth, but that it was sitting on a massive minefield.


    She was confident that after taking over, this mine wouldn''t explode under her. But who else present dared hold the same confidence.


    The third statement was an implication, enticing everyone: she was only temporarily presiding over the Investigation Bureau in Yan Chen''s absence, not actually usurping power.


    When Yan Chen returned, she would still be the minority in the senior officials'' meeting, as if not stirring any waves.


    Therefore, under Tang Feifei''s display of both strength and weakness, even holding the trump card of "Wu Zhi''s death," the senior officials hesitated for a long time, smoked several cigarettes, exchanged many glances, and ultimately acquiesced to Tang Feifei''s leading position in the Investigation Bureau....


    Thus, Tang Feifei successfully ascended to the highest seat of power within the Investigation Bureau.


    This was the path to seizing power that Qiu Tu had planned for Tang Feifei when he phoned her.


    To put it plainly, the scheme wasn''t ingenious. But it made full use of the tense and delicate situation of the moment.


    The death of Wu Zhi, the imminent establishment of Dongye State, the attitude of the senior officials ingratiating themselves to Huang Shangzong, the arrest of Secretary Bai, the Diciplinary Department''s special arrest permit, and Yan Chen''s temporary promotion....


    As for why they had to first deal with Yu Zhengyi.


    It was because, in the Investigation Bureau, aside from Secretary Bai, the person Yan Chen relied on most was this high-ranking Deputy Director.


    Moreover, Yu Zhengyi was actually the number one ranked Deputy Director within the entire Investigation Bureau, truly second only to one but above tens of thousands.


    Hence, if Yan Chen could arrange for someone to take charge before his promotion, it would only be Yu Zhengyi.


    Therefore, as long as Yu Zhengyi was kept in check, the others would be like snakes whose vital points were grasped, ready to be manipulated by Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu.


    This entire plan was conjured and designed by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei together.


    But Qiu Tu truly hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to move so fast, and in just a few hours, she had control of the Investigation Bureau.


    While this was only nominal control, that was exactly what Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei needed.


    As long as they had "justice" on their side, they could freely install confidants and use the powers of the Investigation Bureau during this sensitive period, which was incredibly important.


    In time, there would certainly be senior officials who would realize something was off and raise objections.


    But Qiu Tu''s other strategic plan was to use the trump card of "Wu Zhi''s death" to its fullest extent, to create massive turbulence....


    ----

 Chapter 254 Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Long after learning of Tang Feifei''s true background from Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu had discovered Tang Feifei''s greatest advantage.


    That was... she was the strongest backer in Xinjie City, the only one who didn''t need to cater to Huang Shangzong''s whims.


    As a talent heavily cultivated by her family, almost every step Tang Feifei took was safeguarded by her family''s support.


    Even when Tang Feifei was thrown into the lion''s den of Yan Chen''s stronghold, Xinjie City, for a test, her family never ceased to assist her. This was evident from the fact that she could summon her second uncle at the press of a button.


    And because of this powerful background and influence, while others had to please Huang Shangzong, Tang Feifei didn''t have to do such things.


    Therefore, the death of Wu Zhi was a significant event for other Deputy Directors and committee members, but for Tang Feifei, it really wasn''t a big deal.


    Things then became simple:


    Tang Feifei couldn''t determine the fates of those Deputy Directors and committee members, so they didn''t care about her;


    Huang Shangzong could determine their fates, so those Deputy Directors and committee members didn''t dare offend him;


    And Tang Feifei wasn''t afraid of Huang Shangzong, nor did she care much about his influence on her;


    So... Tang Feifei could entirely take on the "death of Wu Zhi" case, using it to indirectly squeeze the soft spots of those Deputy Directors and committee members.


    For instance... she could take on the case but suppress the report, delaying the process.


    As long as she didn''t escalate the case each day, those Deputy Directors and committee members would have to play by her rules for that day, and she and Qiu Tu could roam freely in Xinjie City!


    Even if Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei went too far during this time, causing dissatisfaction or questioning at higher levels, as long as Tang Feifei brought out the "death of Wu Zhi" card, looking like she would hand it over for them to deal with, they too had to back down¡ªafter all, human nature is selfish, and no one wants to sacrifice themselves for the collective good.


    Moreover, the longer the "death of Wu Zhi" case was dragged on, the heavier the storm it would bring, and the less anyone would dare to take it on.


    And so... the less anyone would dare to oppose Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    With such a strong trump card at hand that could always be used to manipulate the Investigation Bureau''s higher-ups, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei could afford to do much during this period.


    So, Wu Zhi could really be considered to have delivered his head over thousands of miles, helping Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to weather this storm.


    Every time he thought of this, Qiu Tu would feel grateful for Mr. Wu Zhi''s righteousness. Continue your journey with My Virtual Library Empire


    As for whether the excessive actions taken by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would backfire once Yan Chen returned, this was something both had considered.


    Compared to the potential backlash from their actions, the threat posed by Yan Chen becoming Deputy Speaker seemed significantly greater to them.


    Moreover¡­ when Qiu Tu was planning, he had predicted the future many times and made numerous adjustments to his plans.


    He was confident that as long as the plan could be implemented successfully and completed, even if Yan Chen returned in the future, the impact on him and Tang Feifei would be minimal...


    Thinking in this manner and having listened to Tang Feifei''s movements within the Investigation Bureau for the past few hours, Qiu Tu also had a good grasp of Tan Huimin''s purpose in coming to him. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So he lifted Tan Huimin''s chin with his hand, making her look up at him; then he clicked his tongue twice and said, "Wife, I''ve listened to all you''ve said."


    "At times, I thought I must have heard you wrong."


    "You seem to say... Director Zheng met with Wu Counselor today and recorded a statement."


    "The statement not only accused me of messing around with men and women in the Investigation Bureau, but also alleged that I silenced an important criminal, accepted bribes from a criminal''s family, and even let criminals go free?"


    "And that he was detained because he fabricated false evidence against me?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pinched Tan Huimin''s chin and said ominously, "So here comes the question. What do you think he has to pay to quell the anger in my heart and choose to forgive him, or even to rescue him...?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin gently bit her lip, her eyes reddening.


    Actually... long before Zheng Tao prepared to meet Wu Zhi and frame Qiu Tu, Tan Huimin had discussed this issue with Zheng Tao.


    Possibly because she had witnessed her boss''s cunning and strategic planning in recent days, Tan Huimin was firmly against Zheng Tao opposing Qiu Tu.


    She found it too risky.


    No one knew if Qiu Tu had any contingency plans, nor whether Wu Zhi could truly bring Qiu Tu down.


    If Qiu Tu really had a contingency, or if Wu Zhi failed, Wu Zhi could walk away, but Zheng Tao couldn''t.


    Then, Qiu Tu would definitely seek harsh revenge against Zheng Tao.


    But, whether due to a growing rift between the couple or because Zheng Tao truly hated Qiu Tu so much, no matter how Tan Huimin tried to persuade him, Zheng Tao still resolutely went to meet Wu Zhi in the end.


    And indeed, things turned out as Tan Huimin had expected, with Wu Zhi not only failing to bring down Qiu Tu but even losing his life.


    The affair of Wu Zhi''s death caused a stir within the Investigation Bureau, with all sorts of speculations abounding. Some said the United Front was out for Wu Zhi''s assassination; others claimed the United Front was seeking revenge on Qiu Tu but missed their first shot; there were also those who said... it was Qiu Tu silencing someone.


    The first two speculations were dismissed by Tan Huimin in a second. As soon as the incident occurred, her first reaction was that Qiu Tu had shot Wu Zhi.


    Possibly because she had been toyed with and brought to tears by Qiu Tu before, Tan Huimin was all too familiar with Qiu Tu''s methods.

 Chapter 254 Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    She knew that Qiu Tu was just such a bold yet calculating person. He was capable of shooting a special envoy and yet not getting burned himself!


    That was also why, after Zheng Tao was arrested, she had come to find Qiu Tu at the first opportunity, wanting to save Zheng Tao¡ªshe truly believed that Zheng Tao''s arrest was Qiu Tu''s retaliatory strike.


    Of course, now that Tan Huimin had explained the whole situation to Qiu Tu, she guessed that this wasn''t Qiu Tu''s doing.


    But from Qiu Tu''s calm reaction, Tan Huimin still sharply sensed that even if he wasn''t responsible for this matter, he might very well have been involved in the Investigation Bureau''s power grab.


    In other words... Qiu Tu still had the ability to rescue her husband.


    Thinking this, Tan Huimin also made up her mind.


    Having been around Qiu Tu for two days, Tan Huimin knew that this man had one major weakness¡ªthat was his lustfulness.


    From the throngs of women surrounding Qiu Tu, from the way he looked at her, and from how he would take advantage whenever he could, Tan Huimin knew that Qiu Tu had been eyeing her for a long time. Explore more stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    So, she knew what could attract Qiu Tu, what could exchange for her husband''s safety.


    Thinking so, Tan Huimin couldn''t help but look resolutely at Qiu Tu and then said, "I don''t know what kind of price you need to be willing to save my husband."


    "But I want to say, I can pay any price. And that includes... me."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu wasn''t at all surprised. He had already seen through Tan Huimin''s inner thoughts in the corridor. So he chuckled lightly, not spoiling her in the least.


    He withdrew his hand, then leaned back in his rocking chair, eyeing Tan Huimin like an item for sale, and gestured with his hand, "Then let''s begin."


    "Let me experience Madam Zheng''s skills."


    "Don''t worry, as long as you can make my brother comfortable, I won''t make things difficult for Director Zheng."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu agreed so readily, Tan Huimin suddenly hesitated for a moment.


    Her beautiful oval face was full of conflict and uncertainty, as if she was struggling with a final decision in her heart.


    After a moment, she clutched the corner of her already unbuttoned blouse, then turned her face away, trying a last rescue, "I got my period today. Can we do this another day?"


    "Oh? Is that so?" Qiu Tu looked at Tan Huimin''s profile.


    It had to be said, this woman truly had a unique charm. She was very beautiful, had a kind of softness typical of women from the south of the Yangtze River, yet her personality was very decisive and stubborn.


    This contrast in temperament added to her an unusual allure.


    Added to that, she was now kneeling at Qiu Tu''s feet, her blouse open, revealing to Qiu Tu''s sight her full, soft mounds and flat abdomen...


    Therefore, Qiu Tu got up again, took hold of Tan Huimin''s chin, and turned her face slowly so that she was looking directly at him.


    Then Qiu Tu looked at her with an indifferent gaze and commanded, "Then show me your wounded, bleeding spot."


    "I want to verify it personally."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin''s body trembled slightly.


    With just that simple movement, Qiu Tu understood that Tan Huimin was lying to him.


    So Qiu Tu was even more composed, he let go of Tan Huimin''s chin, gestured and said, "Come on, show me."


    Tan Huimin bit her lip, her hand clutching her blouse, looking at Qiu Tu. Trying one last struggle, she said, "I... am a married woman."


    For a moment, Qiu Tu even laughed, "Madam, you must have never watched the soccer matches before the Era of Disaster, right? Goals scored by goalkeepers are even more exciting."


    At these words, Tan Huimin took a deep breath. Then, as if she had made up her mind, she finally slowly got up, and with her eyes closed, she began to undo her restraints, one by one...


    Soon, her slender legs were surrounded by a pile of clothing.


    When the last restraint was undone, Tan Huimin''s body shook again, and a tear slowly rolled down from the corner of her eye.


    Qiu Tu was lying on the rocking chair, looking up at Tan Huimin. Tan Huimin''s skin was as white as milk, and unobstructed now, she was like a sculpture made of white jade. She was stunningly beautiful.


    A hint of admiration and appreciation flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes, suddenly feeling that Zheng Tao trading with the Evil God for this woman seemed understandable, after all.


    Thinking this, he got up and slowly walked over to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin seemed to sense Qiu Tu''s approach, and her hands crossed involuntarily over her chest.


    Qiu Tu, however, embraced her without hesitation, his hand boldly venturing downward, delving inside.


    His fingers slid slickly.


    Tan Huimin''s body jolted violently.


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue and said, "Madam, your body is still quite honest, huh."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu withdrew his fingers, wiped them on Tan Huimin''s full, soft flesh, then picked up the blouse and draped it over her.


    Afterward, he walked directly toward the outside of the house without a hint of nostalgia.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s departure, Tan Huimin was momentarily stunned. She was already beyond caring about the shame and indignation in her heart. She opened her eyes, turned around, and called out to Qiu Tu, "The thing you promised me..."


    Qiu Tu waved his hand dismissively without turning back.


    Seeing this gesture, Tan Huimin couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief, thinking that Qiu Tu had agreed to her terms.


    But just then, Qiu Tu turned around, laughed and scolded her, "Did you really think that offering your body could save your husband?"


    "Madam, have you been watching too many plot-based adult films?"


    "Use your brain, would you?"


    After saying that, Qiu Tu "heh-heh" chuckled twice, throwing out the sentence, "Zheng Tao dares to frame me, he''s a dead man. That''s what I said."


    Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 254 Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Then he left the bedroom without looking back.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s back, which held not the slightest hint of reluctance, Tan Hui Min''s eyes filled with shock and loss. Then she crossed her legs and collapsed to the ground.


    She gazed vacantly at the closed door, just watching it for a long time.


    After a while, she hugged her clothes and burst into tears....


    .....


    At the same time, outside the bedroom door, Qiu Tu leaned against the wall, lit a cigarette, and cursed under his breath.


    His actions just now might have looked cool, but in fact, it was extremely hard for him to restrain himself!


    But he didn''t dare! Until he figured out what powers Larilo had used on Tan Hui Min and Madame Kong, Qiu Tu could only satiate his eyes and hands as he just did. He didn''t dare to actually make a move. Your adventure continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    After all, there would always be women, ah, no, beauties, but one only has one life.


    Larilo is now in a great crisis. If she successfully manipulates him and drags him down, allowing her to turn the tides against all odds, Qiu Tu guessed that even death wouldn''t bring him peace!


    ''So... I still need to probe into Larilo tonight.''


    ''I need to check her current status, find her trump card, and then test what sort of deal she made with Zheng Tao and his wife, Tan Hui Min....''


    ''Otherwise, it''s too tantalizing to have such a delicious cake in front of me and not be able to eat it.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu naturally followed this train of thought to Zheng Tao.


    Remembering that Zheng Tao went so far as to frame him to put him to death, Qiu Tu''s eyes couldn''t help but flash with a chill.


    Originally, his conflicts with Zheng Tao were just minor frictions, minor disputes. Even after he found out Zheng Tao had sided with the Evil God, it was simply a matter of different camps and positions, not involving personal feelings.


    Thus, even when Zheng Tao willingly sent Tan Hui Min to Qiu Tu, he didn''t plan on making a move, merely taking the opportunity to extract information.


    But now that Zheng Tao had framed him, everything was different: it meant that Zheng Tao had personally taken up against Qiu Tu.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ''heh heh'' to himself.


    ''Director Zheng, you''re asking for it. Whatever I do next, I won''t feel burdened....''


    ''Don''t worry.... After you''re gone, I''ll take good care of your wife.''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t take the matter too seriously, instead pushing it to the back of his mind for the time being¡ªTan Hui Min was just dessert after the meal, and he had more important matters to deal with tonight....


    ...


    And so, the day passed quickly.


    That evening at 8 o''clock.


    Qiu Tu met the legendary Director Liu, Liu Xiongyuan, in the Fuxing Tea House in the suburbs of Xinjie City.


    He looked almost exactly as Qiu Tu had seen in photographs.


    Liu Xiongyuan was tall and lean, his face marked with deep wrinkles, bearing the hard countenance of years, his skin dark, but his hair and beard completely white!


    What stood out the most were his eyebrows. His eyebrows were thick and rugged, like two white swords pointing to the sky.


    Unlike his cold demeanor towards Jia Wei, upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Xiongyuan was as joyous as if meeting an old friend, expressing great happiness.


    He patted Qiu Tu on the back and said excitedly, "I''ve always wanted to meet you, kid, to thank you in person. But I''ve had no chance."


    "Who would have thought that Yan Chen, that bastard, would create an opportunity for us to meet with this move of his." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s like fate."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu replied humbly yet confidently, "Meeting today really is fate. After all, I too have long admired Director Liu."


    Liu Xiongyuan was the type who preferred practical work to insincere formalities, so after hearing Qiu Tu''s flattering words, he just laughed heartily twice, then took Qiu Tu by the hand to sit down and started discussing serious matters.


    The two were in a private room of the Fuxing Tea House, which was entirely controlled by Liu Xiongyuan''s guards, so there were no worries about eavesdropping.


    "Qiu Tu, your plan to delay Yan Chen''s advancement was indeed excellent."


    "From finding this unique angle to break the situation, one can see that you really do have some skills."


    "But..." Here, Liu Xiongyuan pointed out, "Breaking the game is not just about deflecting moves or turning a crisis into an opportunity."


    "It''s about efficiently utilizing all the resources at hand, following the trend of the times."


    "Only by doing so can you leverage a small cost into a huge benefit."


    Leaning back in his chair, Liu Xiongyuan then asked, "So, what do you think is the current trend? What can be leveraged?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then asked, "Isn''t the establishment of Dongye State the big trend?"


    Liu Xiongyuan slightly shook his dark face and replied, "There''s more. Another key event is happening."


    Qiu Tu frowned and thought for a moment.


    Shortly after, as if something had dawned on him, he said with realization, "Are you referring to Moonlight Lake, Director Liu?"


    Moonlight Lake involved a major treasure trove that attracted the attention of various powers in both Xinjie City and Eastern City, and even the Evil God.


    It was said to contain 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, enough to make thousands of bottles of Cataclysmic Potion.


    This was, beyond the establishment of Dongye State, the most significant event in the Planning Area.


    Yan Chen had been so busy during the previous period precisely because of the Moonlight Lake project.


    With Liu Xiongyuan''s reminder, Qiu Tu quickly came to an understanding.


    His mind racing, he ventured, "You mean... Moonlight Lake is a top priority for Xinjie City, and it''s one of the tasks Yan Chen has been focusing on and responsible for."


    "If he misses out on this event, and perhaps even makes some blunders, could it be that when he advances to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver, not only will he have no merits, but he''ll also have faults?"


    Still, 2 chapters, 10,000 words. Requesting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 255 Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Seeing that Qiu Tu understood his meaning, Liu Xiongyuan nodded with satisfaction. Experience tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    The short elder clearly had his own style of doing things. After completing his teaching, he directly began to explain.


    He grinned and said, "Yes. The biggest problem with Yan Chen''s promotion is not only the timing of Dongye State''s establishment."


    "But that his own work has yet to be fully arranged."


    "The Moonlight Lake that will soon form between Xinjie City and Eastern City isn''t just a matter concerning the two cities."


    "Such a large treasure is even attracting some attention from the Sanctuary."


    "In fact, this is one of the important reasons why Dongye State was established so quickly."


    As he spoke, Liu Xiongyuan stretched out his dark hand and made a gesture of closing his fingers together, then said, "So... as long as we prevent Yan Chen from catching up with the formation of Moonlight Lake, and make him miss this most important task in the near future."


    "Then it''s not about whether he can compete for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, but rather... whether he will be charged with dereliction of duty, receive a warning from the Sanctuary, or even be demoted or reassigned...."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu appeared thoughtful.


    It had to be said, the old ginger is still spicier.


    Qiu Tu had actually done very well before. After all, following Yan Chen''s sudden breakout, he didn''t panic or worry but actively used the situation to think of thwarting Yan Chen''s progress and turn the tide against the wind.


    But Liu Xiongyuan''s move, exploiting the current situation, not only destroyed Yan Chen''s conspiracy but even dealt a bigger blow to him, was clearly better.


    ''It seems I really should learn more from these old fellows,'' Qiu Tu thought.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu humbly asked, "Director Liu, then... how can we make Yan Chen miss this opportunity?"


    "Can the time when Moonlight Lake forms really be controlled by people?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Xiongyuan "hehe" smiled, revealing his big yellow teeth.


    This old man really didn''t carry the air of a superior. If someone dropped him at a harbor and told Qiu Tu he was a boat tracker, Qiu Tu probably would''ve believed it.


    This also made Qiu Tu curious as to how such a character could climb to his current position step by step in the Planning Area and how he made Eastern City''s Investigation Bureau a benchmark of the Planning Area.


    What kind of charm did he possess?


    While Qiu Tu was pondering this, Liu Xiongyuan also answered Qiu Tu''s previous question.


    He said, "The time when Moonlight Lake forms indeed can be controlled."


    Liu Xiongyuan explained, "Cataclysmic Materials like Moonlight Lake and Tears of Moonlight, ultimately, are all products of the concentration and qualitative transformation of Cataclysmic Power from the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "The reason we could predict the birth of Moonlight Lake in advance is because we found increasingly high concentrations of Cataclysmic Power in the corresponding area of the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "After that, based on the analysis of the content of Cataclysmic Power, and scientific judgments made from the physical matter and topography of both realms."


    "So, theoretically, if we add more Cataclysmic Power to this terrain, we can hasten its formation."


    "Moreover, you should know that this Moonlight Lake is already nearing a critical point of formation."


    "Perhaps... just a small change could immediately catalyze it."


    Qiu Tu didn''t take Liu Xiongyuan''s words at face value. He sat up straight, looked at Liu Xiongyuan seriously, and inquired, "Since there''s such a way to give birth to Moonlight Lake in advance."


    "Then why haven''t you used it and have been waiting instead?"


    "The longer you wait, the more forces will set their sights on this Moonlight Lake. So it seems more sensible to secure the prize sooner rather than later, which aligns more with the interests of Xinjie City, Eastern City, and even the Sanctuary, doesn''t it?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly, then he continued to analyze on his own, "Therefore, there must be other reasons you haven''t done so." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Like... the distribution of interests has not been completed, and pushing for the premature arrival of Moonlight Lake would intensify conflicts?"


    "Like... the premature birth of Moonlight Lake could lead to unknown changes, such as reducing the purity of the Tears of Moonlight?"


    "Or maybe¡­"


    At this, Qiu Tu paused, then said, "perhaps the conditions required to hasten the birth of Moonlight Lake are quite harsh and difficult to meet."


    "Even for you, it would be hard to achieve."


    "And now, the reason you dare to propose this idea is probably because certain conditions have been satisfied?"


    "For instance... the celestial change and Illusion of the Law triggered by Yan Chen''s promotion to a Fourth Order Catastrophe-evolver."


    When he heard Qiu Tu''s flowing analysis, a flicker of surprise crossed Liu Xiongyuan''s eyes.


    As one of the Three Giants of a city himself, he didn''t have the devious mind that Yan Chen had, but was extremely expressive with his emotions.


    Looking at Qiu Tu, he praised, "I''ve heard from Fuping that you are extraordinary, with vast insights and profound plans."


    "At the time, I thought she hadn''t seen much of the world."


    "Now that I''ve met you, I see that she wasn''t mistaken."


    At this, the admiration in Liu Xiongyuan''s eyes almost overflowed as he said, "You... are really quite good."


    Having said that, Liu Xiongyuan''s tone suddenly changed, and then he said, "By the way, do you have any interest in taking a position in Eastern City?"


    "Under Yan Chen, you won''t have much of a future. That bastard does nothing but play dark schemes all day and leads all the good talents astray!"


    "Eastern City is different.


    "We judge everything based on your ability and achievements!"


    "As long as you have the capacity and can solve major cases, your promotions will be as rapid as riding a rocket."


    "And, even if you''ve reached the top end in the city, I''ll still recommend you to other cities or to the Sanctuary!"

 Chapter 255 Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (10k Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    He patted his chest and promised earnestly, "Without going into other details, once you''re there, I assure you that you''ll be promoted to Division Chief within a year. After a transitional period in that position, you''ll take over the Political Department and enter the high-level cadre."


    "In a few more years, whether I''m promoted or I step down, you could move up another step and become a Deputy Director." Read exclusive adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    As he said this, perhaps worried that Qiu Tu might misunderstand the speed of this promotion,


    he further explained with a serious face, "You must not measure by the promotion speed you''ve experienced recently."


    "The speed at which you were promoted during this period is actually something one hopes for but cannot expect."


    "Firstly, officials below the level of Deputy Staff, the Sanctuary doesn''t even bother to know."


    "And for officials below the level of Deputy Division Chief, although the Sanctuary takes count, it never interferes; those decisions are left to the Bureau Chiefs of each Investigation Bureau."


    "So, you might feel you''ve been promoted many times, but in fact... you''ve yet to even qualify for the Sanctuary''s notice."


    "Secondly... Division Chief is a watershed."


    "According to the customs of the Sanctuary, even if ordinary citizens from the Planning Area perform exceptionally well, they can only rise as high as Deputy Division Chief at most."


    "Only those who are absorbed by the major factions of the Sanctuary, trained there, and passed the golden test of being one of us, might have a chance to climb higher."


    "And even then, above Division Chief, each level is a ladder to the heavens, where capability, luck, and background are indispensable."


    "Therefore, being able to guarantee your smooth rise to the role of Deputy Director within a few years is already the greatest sincerity I can offer."


    Listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu actually felt quite touched in his heart.


    He felt he was beginning to understand what Liu Xiongyuan was thinking: Liu Xiongyuan was likely projecting the expectations he had for his son onto him because he had helped to avenge his son''s death.


    That''s why he was paving the way for him, and why he was being so open and honest.


    If Qiu Tu weren''t a transmigrator, without the Golden Finger, without so many confidants and subordinates in Xinjie City, maybe he truly would have agreed.


    But now... Qiu Tu had painstakingly established such a good situation in Xinjie City, going to Eastern City would mean starting all over again.


    Thus, almost without hesitation, Qiu Tu smiled and declined, "Thank you for your kind intention, elder. But I am not alone; I have many brothers, confidants, and subordinates behind me."


    "If I were to up and leave like this, they would struggle to make their way in Xinjie City."


    "And once I went to Eastern City, without their support, I would be like rootless duckweed."


    "So... even if it might be a slower development in Xinjie, even if it might be more difficult and troublesome because of Yan Chen, I still wish to continue my advancement from Xinjie City."


    "Only then will each step I take be more solid."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan looked at him deeply, grinned with a show of teeth, and then patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder hard, "Ambitious."


    Liu Xiongyuan said, "Since that''s the case, I will introduce you to one of my former leaders today. Let''s see if you can win his favor."


    "If you manage to gain his approval, later I can take you to mingle with some other colleagues more frequently. By then, you would be able to join our faction; at least the path up to Bureau Chief won''t pose any problems."


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu, who had already learned about Liu Xiongyuan''s faction from Tang Feifei that afternoon, did not refuse.


    He nodded slightly and said sincerely, "Thank you, elder." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The entire floor of Fuxing Tea House was sealed off by the guards brought by Liu Xiongyuan, so there was no worry of anyone coming in to disturb them.


    Therefore, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t delay. He checked the time, and seeing that it was the appointed time, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a black metal box.


    The box was exquisitely made and elegant, with the emblem of the Investigation Bureau engraved on it.


    After placing the metal box on the table, Liu Xiongyuan pressed a few buttons on it, and the next second, the box opened, revealing a dial pad.


    Qiu Tu looked on curiously and then saw Liu Xiongyuan enter a lengthy 13-digit number, followed by pressing a white button on the dial pad.


    The next moment, a green holographic screen suddenly appeared above the small box. The screen showed no images, only a "Connecting" prompt.


    ''A remote video call?'' Qiu Tu thought hesitantly in his heart. ''Is this the effect of a Cataclysmic treasure or a technological product?''


    While Qiu Tu was considering this, the next second, the green holographic screen displayed the figure of a middle-aged man.


    He wore a neat suit and looked stern and serious.


    Liu Xiongyuan was obviously quite familiar with him, and as soon as he saw him, he said with a smile, "Secretary Fang, does Elder Wang have time now?"


    "There may be some new developments here in Dongye State that I plan to report to him."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, the middle-aged man also showed a slight smile, "Director Liu. I am aware of this matter; Elder Wang specially mentioned it to me today."


    After finishing, he said, "Please wait a moment, let me check if Elder Wang has finished his brief meeting."


    With his words, the image on the screen froze.


    And Qiu Tu also recalled information about Elder Wang in his mind.


    That afternoon, Qiu Tu had managed to gather some information about Liu Xiongyuan and the elder Wang behind him from Tang Feifei.


    According to Tang Feifei, Liu Xiongyuan was a key member of the Sanctuary''s Reformist Faction, highly favored by the faction leader Wang Guochuan.


    The Reformist Faction was one of the major factions among the high echelons of the Sanctuary, with the political stance of "New-style Three Principles of the People," focusing on democracy, civil rights, and livelihood!

 Chapter 255 Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (10k Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    This faction has a notable characteristic, in that it lacks the core founders of the Sanctuary, and the majority originate from lower-class families with ordinary backgrounds....


    So, their primary political demand is to break the lifelong tenure of the Sanctuary''s upper echelon, open the upward development channel for the middle level, and carry out reasonable democratic elections.


    Of course, compared to the Sanctuary''s conservative faction, the strength of the Reformist Faction is clearly not strong, so this political demand has never been successfully achieved.


    However, even so, over the past few years, due to the continuous influx of new forces, the power of the Reformist Faction within the entire Sanctuary has been growing stronger.


    And the most significant sign of this is that the leader of the Reformist Faction, Wang Guochuan, was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Eighth Sanctuary''s Supreme Council.


    This signifies that the Reformist Faction has officially become a significant force within the Sanctuary.


    While introducing Liu Xiongyuan, Wang Guochuan, and the intelligence on the Reformist Faction, Tang Feifei also analyzed Qiu Tu''s potential growth paths.


    According to Tang Feifei''s analysis, whether or not Qiu Tu is willing, his origin as a commoner from the Planning Area has already deeply branded him with the "Reformist Faction."


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    Unless Qiu Tu is selected by some big figure from another faction and forcibly pulled into their faction, he could only follow the "Reformist Faction''s" path.


    Moreover, even if a big figure does select Qiu Tu and pulls him into their faction, due to his lack of an impeccable lineage, there''s a high likelihood he would just be a peripheral member, and his prospects for development might not be as good as within the "Reformist Faction."


    After all, within the "Reformist Faction," at least on the surface, everyone''s background is the same, and one''s ability to become a core member of the faction relies entirely on competence.


    So, it''s somewhat fairer.


    Of course... there is another option that Tang Feifei didn''t mention. Qiu Tu guessed it, but he didn''t ask.


    That is... Qiu Tu could also change his status through marriage.


    For example, if Qiu Tu were truly to join with Tang Feifei, he could also rely on the identity of a son-in-law of the Tang family to join the faction the Tang family is part of and even leapfrog to become a core of the entire faction....


    But given the current delicate and complicated relationship between the two, it is obviously not suitable to discuss such a topic.


    And just as Qiu Tu was contemplating his own future like this.


    The holographic screen in front of the table flickered a few times before slowly manifesting the figure of an elder.... Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His hair was silver-white but combed meticulously, with silver strands glistening under the light. His deep gaze seemed to penetrate the human heart as if they could see through one''s soul.


    Just by sitting there, he exuded an aura of authority without anger, like a towering mountain.


    Upon seeing him, Liu Xiongyuan''s expression turned serious. He stood up and saluted the elder, "Elder Wang."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu followed suit and saluted as well.


    Elder Wang calmly glanced at Liu Xiongyuan, then turned his head to look at Qiu Tu.


    His gaze lingered on Qiu Tu for an extra 0.5 seconds before he slowly said, "This is the Qiu Tu you mentioned to me this afternoon, right?"


    Hearing Elder Wang''s words, Liu Xiongyuan hurriedly responded with a sound of agreement, saying, "Yes, Elder Wang. This is Qiu Tu."


    "The intelligence that Yan Chen is preparing to advance to Fourth Order Cataclysmic and to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State Council was also discovered and passed to me by him."


    As he spoke, Liu Xiongyuan explained the current situation of Yan Chen and the overall state of affairs in Dongye State to Elder Wang in as concise a language as possible.


    During this, Elder Wang also asked a few detailed questions, and Liu Xiongyuan elaborated on these inquiries with detailed answers.


    Throughout the process, Qiu Tu just stood to one side from beginning to end, patiently being an extra without a trace of other expressions on his face.


    It was only after the exchange between the two had concluded that Elder Wang''s gaze slowly turned to Qiu Tu again....


    ------


    Still two chapters totaling 10,000 characters. A bit late today. Will continue with ten thousand a day tomorrow.

 Chapter 256 Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000-word plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    From the moment Liu Xiongyuan started talking with Elder Wang, Qiu Tu''s attention had been entirely focused on the two men without a moment''s distraction.


    So, when Elder Wang looked towards Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu bowed slightly, and once again respectfully addressed him, "Elder Wang."


    Seeing this, Liu Xiongyuan also timely stopped his talk, and stood aside, leaving this last bit of time to Qiu Tu and Wang Guochuan.


    Wang Guochuan''s gaze was like a deep pool, quietly resting on Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, he nodded slightly, then offered a faint appraisal, "Not bad."


    Having said this, he looked back at Liu Xiongyuan and spoke, "Xiongyuan, about that Deputy Speaker matter of yours, I''m still discussing it."


    "There''s substantial resistance, you should be prepared for it." Continue reading stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Huang Shangzong is adamant about not wanting to work with you, and the higher-ups have to consider his opinion after all."


    "But... as long as the list isn''t published, everything is still uncertain, so the effort that can be made still should be made."


    After speaking, he paused, then reminded, "As for Yan Chen... you should pay more attention to him."


    "If he really succeeds in advancing to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, there''s a good chance he might ultimately come out on top."


    Hearing Elder Wang''s words, Liu Xiongyuan said carefreely, "Elder Wang, fortune favors me if I get it, destiny otherwise."


    "The moment I chose to avenge my son over becoming the Deputy Speaker, I was already prepared."


    "The only thing I feel sorry about is you. My caprice this time has ruined your arrangements in Dongye State, likely causing many of our plans to come to naught, and the goal of changing the entire Sanctuary''s political ecology may have to be postponed again because of me."


    "I... apologize to you, and to our faction."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words filled with self-reproach, Elder Wang didn''t offer him any solace.


    He just quietly watched Liu Xiongyuan and said, "If you are morose, suffering, self-reproaching, it means you are living in the past; if you are anxious, perplexed, wandering, it means you are living in the future."


    "Only when your heart is truly at peace, will it mean that you are living in the present...."


    "These years, you have been constantly morose, suffering, it means you have never walked out of the past."


    "I will not comfort you that your choice this time was right, after all, your impulsiveness indeed ruined years of our efforts."


    "I only want to tell you that you''ve been living in the past for 10 years now, do not let the next 10 years still be lived in the past."


    "Look forward, don''t dwell on the past nor be anxious about the future, calmly face the present."


    "Whether you lose or win, whether Bureau Chief or Deputy Speaker, devote yourself fully to the development of Dongye State."


    Listening to Elder Wang''s calm yet powerful words, Liu Xiongyuan bowed respectfully, and replied, "Yes!"


    After his instructions to Liu Xiongyuan, Elder Wang spoke indifferently, "Alright, I have another meeting next, so I won''t chat with you two any longer."


    Hearing his words, Liu Xiongyuan reminded, "Please take care of your health."


    "I know..." Elder Wang nodded faintly, then he terminated the communication amid the salutes of Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu.


    The communication was not long, just 13 minutes.


    And in those 13 minutes, Elder Wang only glanced at Qiu Tu twice, then assessed him in three words.


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t feel neglected at all.


    What status was Qiu Tu? In one of the dozen cities within several Planning Areas of the Eighth Sanctuary, he was just a junior deputy head in the Political Department of the Investigation Bureau in Xinjie City.


    Although he counted as a bigwig within the Investigation Bureau and wielded significant influence and power in Xinjie City.


    He was far behind Elder Wang.


    If one needs a direct comparison, it''s like... if the Sanctuary held a high-level meeting, Elder Wang would be the one sitting in the first row.


    And Qiu Tu... would be the one learning from in front of the television....


    With such a stark contrast in status, Qiu Tu had already designed his persona according to his experiences from a previous life before this conversation: an understudy who knew his place, was sensible and aware of his status.


    Thus, during the exchange between the two bigshots, Qiu Tu remained silent.


    He didn''t try to assert himself or butt into the conversation.


    After all, standing out in front of real bigshots isn''t necessarily a good thing.


    These bigshots have seen too many talented individuals, and unless you are a rare genius, a simple few words won''t amaze them or leave them in shock. Otherwise, you will most likely be tagged as "frivolous" or "not stable enough."


    And if there are mistakes in what you say, it''s even more disastrous. The first impression is almost certain to be negative.


    So... when facing such real bigshots, "hiding one''s clumsiness" is actually the wisest strategy.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Xiongyuan came back to his senses. He gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, then smilingly said, "You did quite well, kid."


    "I heard you''ve always been high-handed in Xinjie City; I thought you''d seize the moment to show off." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu responded with a straight face, "Slander! That''s slander!"


    "Was it Agent Liu who said this? I demand a face-to-face confrontation!"


    Qiu Tu handled interpersonal relationships with great discernment.


    In the presence of someone like Elder Wang, who was an incredibly high-level figure, Qiu Tu didn''t speak up, merely demonstrating his stability.


    But, with someone like Liu Xiongyuan, where the level difference wasn''t that big, who had a frank personality, and with whom he had a somewhat close relationship, Qiu Tu''s behavior was much more natural and unrestrained.


    As expected, Qiu Tu''s remark made Liu Xiongyuan burst out laughing with a "haha."


    Liu Xiongyuan patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder again and said, "Not bad, not bad, I''m finding you more and more interesting."

 Chapter 256 Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Once Dongye State is established, make sure you come to Eastern City more often. We need to exchange ideas and communicate more," S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, "Right, elder."


    With that, the meeting with Liu Xiongyuan and Elder Wang for the evening ended early.


    Elder Wang is a busy man, dealing with the Sanctuary and internal faction affairs every day, and Liu Xiongyuan is also very busy.


    With the establishment of Dongye State imminent, and the state government being set up in Eastern City, he needed to make a lot of preparations early on.


    Besides the official duties, the complex project of prematurely forming Moonlight Lake also required his attention, so he needed to return and start preparations as soon as possible.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t hold him back, and after seeing Liu Xiongyuan downstairs, he watched as he got into the army-green jeep that slowly drove away...


    Before parting, Liu Xiongyuan also whispered a few words to Qiu Tu.


    Perhaps because Elder Wang had given him an "not bad" assessment, Liu Xiongyuan clearly regarded Qiu Tu as a junior member of his faction.


    Therefore, he patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder and said, "Don''t worry too much about Huang Shangzong''s matter. He''s here in Dongye State to work, not to seek revenge, and there are many things he can''t overdo."


    "Besides, now that he''s a member of the Supreme Council and also serving as the Speaker of the State Council, he''s already in the spotlight. Many people in the Sanctuary are watching him."


    "Just waiting for him to make a mistake."


    "And with me in front, he probably won''t make a direct move on you."


    "However, he is likely to bring his confidants and subordinates into Xinjie City to target you."


    "In such times, you need to be extra careful." Enjoy new adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    Listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s sincere concern and advice, Qiu Tu nodded seriously and expressed his thanks.


    After seeing Liu Xiongyuan off, Qiu Tu stood at the entrance of "Fuxing Tea House" and absentmindedly gazed at the sky for a while.


    The sky still displayed Yan Chen''s immense Illusion of the Law, like a mountain range, looking magnificent.


    ''Fourth Order... I''ll have to at least become the Deputy Speaker of a state''s State Council to reach that.''


    ''Deputy Speaker... That''s barely considered a Senior Frontier Official.''


    ''If only I could become someone like Elder Wang...''


    ''Hiss, I dare not think about it...''


    As he internally sighed, Qiu Tu walked towards his dilapidated sedan parked by the roadside in the cool breeze.


    Getting into the run-down car, Qiu Tu started it and drove towards his home on Longshan Road.


    On the way, Qiu Tu also reflected on his plans against Yan Chen, which had undergone several changes.


    Currently, he had a three-step plan against Yan Chen.


    The first step was to seize power, control the Investigation Bureau, plant confidants, and sideline Yan Chen.


    Thanks to Tang Feifei''s efforts today, this step has seen some success. It''s just waiting for Qiu Tu to go to the Investigation Bureau tomorrow to start promoting his confidants and arranging their positions.


    The second step was to use the celestial shifts caused by Yan Chen''s advancement to Fourth Order to stimulate Moonlight Lake and form it ahead of time.


    This step was to be completed by Liu Xiongyuan, so Qiu Tu didn''t need to worry about it.


    The third step was to interact with Larilo, to extract information and cards from her, and then to coax Larilo into holding Yan Chen back.


    If all three steps were completed, or even just any two of them, Yan Chen would not possibly secure the position of Deputy Speaker, and he might even face accountability from the Sanctuary.


    Thinking of "Deputy Speaker", Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the conversation between Elder Wang and Liu Xiongyuan.


    From the conversation, Qiu Tu learned that Liu Xiongyuan''s quest for vengeance against his son actually had a significant impact on the Reformist Faction''s plans.


    But even though it had happened, the Reformist Faction was still actively looking for ways to recuperate and see if they could push Liu Xiongyuan back up.


    Therefore, who the position of Deputy Speaker would ultimately fall to remained unknown.


    ''It would be nice if I could help Liu Xiongyuan and have him become the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State.''


    ''That way, even if Huang Shangzong becomes the Speaker, having one of our own up there could significantly improve the situation.''


    This idea lingered in Qiu Tu''s mind as soon as it formed.


    But as a mere vice-minister, the gap between him and the position of Bureau Chief, let alone Deputy Speaker, was vast.


    So even though he wanted to help Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu didn''t know where to start.


    Hence, he could only take things one step at a time, first to meet with the entrapped and Devoured Evil God Girl Lara, to communicate...


    When he got home, Shen Lingshuang hadn''t gone to bed yet.


    Qiu Tu greeted her and then went upstairs to an empty bedroom to contact Larilo.


    Qiu Tu currently had two ways to contact Larilo.


    The first was the Ancient Coin. It was the only item that allowed believers to actively contact Larilo.


    The second was... "Enter Dream."


    Even though Qiu Tu no longer had Larilo''s mark, Secretary Bai certainly did as Larilo''s high-level believer, holding an identity and status no less than Jia Wei''s.


    Thus, Qiu Tu speculated that Secretary Bai must also have the ability to bestow Larilo''s mark.


    If the first method failed, Qiu Tu planned to seek out Secretary Bai to try getting the mark for himself...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu began to contact Larilo using the same method as last time, first rubbing the face of the coin with his thumb three times, followed by four rubs on the back. Finally, he tossed the coin onto the table.


    "Phew!"


    Last time, it took Qiu Tu several minutes and six or seven tries to successfully contact Larilo.


    This time, he didn''t even wait a second before Larilo took the initiative to "answer the call."

 Chapter 256 Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The coin flew mid-air, and before it even landed on the table, it vaporized, then amidst a puff of smoke, it formed Larilo''s stunningly beautiful face.


    Tonight''s Larilo was clearly in disarray, even panic-stricken. As soon as she saw Qiu Tu, it was as if she had grasped at the last straw, frantically pleading for help, "Qiu Tu! Save me! Save me!"


    Seeing Larilo''s flustered expression and her desperate plea, honestly, Qiu Tu was also taken aback for a moment.


    In his heart, as an Evil God, Larilo should remain calm and composed even if the sky were falling down.


    But... just Yan Chen devouring her was enough to scare her like this?


    Was Yan Chen truly terrifying, or was Larilo a paper tiger?


    Or perhaps... Larilo was putting on an act?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu began to probe. He feigned surprise and said, "Your Highness, what happened?"


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    "What''s wrong with you? Is there anything I can do for you?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo exclaimed anxiously, "Yan Chen, it''s Yan Chen."


    "That madman, he''s taken the ''Path of Life'' just like me. And... his abilities are extremely unique."


    "He can actually absorb the lifespans and souls of other beings."


    "Now I''m trapped in his domain, unable to leave or escape."


    "And constantly having my strength drained by him, I feel like I''m going insane."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s face contorted with more ferocity, and she said in terror, "So save me, save me. As long as you can save me, I will give you anything."


    Qiu Tu narrowed his eyes, carefully discerning the tone of Larilo''s speech. Then he said, "Anything?"


    "Then... can Your Highness spend a night of spring with me?"


    After speaking, fearing that Larilo would get angry, Qiu Tu even made a "one" gesture with his hand, saying, "I''m not the type to ask for an inch and take a mile."


    "One night, just one night is all I need to be satisfied."


    "I just want to taste what an Evil God is like, I have never manipulated an Evil God before."


    Larilo: ...


    Larilo glared at Qiu Tu with a fierce expression, while Qiu Tu looked back at her innocently, as if that was truly all he wanted.


    After a pause.


    "Giggle giggle~~"


    The panic and ferocity on Larilo''s face vanished abruptly, replaced by an expression full of wicked charm and slyness.


    She laughed like the tinkling of silver bells, her eyes forming two curved rainbows.


    After laughing for about five or six seconds, Larilo stopped the laughter and looked at Qiu Tu curiously, then inquired, "Qiu Tu~ how did you figure out I was deceiving you?"


    Qiu Tu "heh heh" chuckled twice, then followed up with flattery, "Because I believe in Your Highness, I know that with your intelligence and wisdom, even if Yan Chen had schemed against you, you would definitely have a backup plan and not be so completely panicked."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo giggled a few more times, and then she said, "Well, you''ve guessed wrong." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I don''t have any backup plan, I''m just enough, just... how do you humans say it again?"


    "Oh, right. Carefree Faction. I''m just carefree enough, that''s all."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s head slowly vaporized, and momentarily, it formed a small full-body image of herself.


    In the image, Larilo sat leisurely in the air, then looked at Qiu Tu curiously and asked, "Qiu Tu, compared to my own situation, I''m actually more curious about you."


    Larilo smiled wickedly, "You''re seeking me out at this time, surely it''s not just to chat, right?"


    Larilo stretched out her legs, her round and jade-like little feet almost reaching Qiu Tu''s mouth, and she said with a teasing laugh, "Let me guess...."


    "If I''m not mistaken, you''re here to test me and to negotiate a deal, right?"


    -----------

 Chapter 257 The Chief Culprit Behind the Time Travel? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu did not try to wrestle control of the conversation''s rhythm as usual.


    Instead, he actively handed over the control of the conversation to Larilo.


    He forced an awkward smile, then feigned stubbornness, and said, "How dare I discuss business with Your Highness."


    "I am here to save Your Highness."


    After that, Qiu Tu took the initiative to say, "I saw the Illusion of the Law belonging to Yan Chen appear and discovered that something big seemed to have happened in Xinjie City."


    "So, I captured many people, and after lengthy interrogations, I learned that Yan Chen had set up a trap, a snare, wanting to Devour Your Highness and become a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver."


    "Having obtained this intelligence, I communicated with Your Highness immediately, wishing to save Your Highness."


    Sure enough, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s recounting, Larilo laughed lightly, then taunted, "Save me? Do I need saving by you?"


    She spoke with slight disdain, "Do you really think Yan Chen can outwit me?"


    "The tactics he and Bai Yu have been playing, I have seen through them all too clearly."


    "In fact, I have made targeted arrangements."


    "Yan Chen feels that he has outwitted me, but in reality... everything is a plot within a plot, a scheme within a scheme."


    As Larilo spoke, Qiu Tu was intently watching her expressions, trying to discern whether Larilo was telling the truth or lies.


    But whether Larilo''s acting was too good, or everything was indeed fact, Qiu Tu could not detect the slightest flaw.


    Therefore, he became even more cautious, and tentatively said, "Is that so?"


    "Then... may I ask Your Highness to resolve some of my confusion?"


    Feigning a puzzled frown, Qiu Tu said, "Having learned about the general process of the entire affair today, I truly feel like the whole Xinjie City is a giant chessboard."


    "And it seems like you and Yan Chen have been laying out your plans for many years."


    At this point, Qiu Tu brought up several key terms on purpose. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He said, "For instance... what exactly is the deal with Zheng Tao and his wife?"


    "And when did Bai Yu feign allegiance to Your Highness?"


    "When did Your Highness begin to conceal yourself by Yan Chen''s side?"


    "And how did Yan Chen plan to outwit Your Highness?"


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    Having said that, Qiu Tu then put on a look of dejection and said, "I''m now only piecing together a general picture from various sources of information, but I cannot understand the timelines or your arrangements at all..."


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s crimson eyes took Qiu Tu in from top to bottom, a flicker of surprise in their depths.


    Obviously, she had not expected Qiu Tu to know so much intelligence and detail, and that he had figured out the crux of the matter in just a day''s time.


    It was only certain key nodes of information and timing that were not clearly sorted out.


    Such ability to gather and analyze intelligence was indeed astonishing.


    Thinking this, Larilo also couldn''t help but reassess Qiu Tu, as if considering whether to tell him everything or not.


    After a moment, she came to a decision.


    She slightly tilted her head up, then said, "Well then~since you want to know, I might as well tell you briefly."


    "Consider it a demonstration of my might...."


    Saying so, Larilo roughly recounted to Qiu Tu the mutual strategizing between her and Yan Chen over the past two years.


    According to Larilo, her focus on Yan Chen began a few years ago.


    At that time, the Sanctuary had just decided that Xinjie City would become a Planning Area, and Yan Chen, General Ye, and Commissioner Jiang were subsequently designated as the highest officials for Xinjie City''s three major institutions.


    Old Master Qin learned of this news through some secretive channels.


    So he gathered information about these three individuals for Larilo to see who could be swayed or breached.


    Ultimately, Larilo chose Yan Chen.


    The reason for choosing Yan Chen was simple: his wife had passed away a few years ago and could be revived using "Cloned Female Body", and he also had a daughter, convenient for Larilo to descend in hiding.


    Thus, carrying with him grand gifts, Old Master Qin visited the Sanctuary as a would-be supporter, held secret talks with Yan Chen, and finally, with the condition of Cloning and reviving Yan Chen''s wife, reached a preliminary collaboration¡ªOld Master Qin''s second son, Qin Zhengguang, would take up a post in the Investigation Bureau.


    Afterwards, the Qin family would continue their cooperation with Yan Chen once he arrived at Xinjie City.


    Of course... all of this was a ruse. Old Master Qin''s cooperation was fake, the real objective was to steal Yan Chen''s daughter''s genes.


    When discussing the technology of "Cloned Female Body", Old Master Qin fabricated a story: Since Yan Chen''s wife had been dead for a few years, cloning her directly from the leftover genes was impossible, and a living cell template from his daughter was required for corrections.


    Not much living tissue was needed, just a vial of blood would suffice.


    Yan Chen, clearly not realizing that Old Master Qin''s target was his daughter, agreed to the condition without much hesitation.


    So, upon returning to Xinjie City, Old Master Qin began the cloning of Yan Chen''s wife and Yan Yan.


    During this period, the clone body prepared for Old Master Qin matured.


    Thus, Old Master Qin, following his plan with Larilo, abandoned his old body, his Soul split in two, and entered both his cloned body and his elder son Qin Heng''s body, continuing to serve Larilo.


    In this way, Xinjie City was officially established shortly thereafter, and Yan Chen successfully became the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Chief and arrived at Xinjie City.


    Honoring the initial agreement, Old Master Qin presented the cloned wife to Yan Chen, who in turn promptly fulfilled his promise: Qin Zhengguang was appointed as the Deputy Division Chief of the Investigation Bureau.

 Chapter 257 The Culprit Behind the Time Travel? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    However, when Yan Chen wanted to further cooperate with the Qin Family, Old Master Qin was worried that the relationship between the Qin Family and Larilo would be discovered, so he temporarily delayed the cooperation with Yan Chen.


    As for the reason, it was simple¡ªit was "his" own death¡ª"he" was already dead, and his descendants did not yet know about the original agreement, so they did not dare to rashly pledge their allegiance.


    At that time, Xinjie City had just been established, and the three major institutions still needed old established families like the Qin Family to establish order, so Yan Chen did not dare to put too much pressure on the Qin Family.


    Thus... the Qin Family and Yan Chen reached a state of having a relationship that was not very close.


    According to Larilo''s speculation, it was likely Old Master Qin''s conservative approach that aroused Yan Chen''s suspicion.


    Therefore, Yan Chen began to secretly investigate the details of the Qin Family and consequently stumbled upon some clues about Larilo.


    Because Yan Chen was a "Life" path Cataclysmic.


    Moreover, his Cataclysmic ability was quite special, named "Life Devouring." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The effect of this Cataclysmic ability was very domineering: it could forcibly devour the lifespan and soul of beings on the same path, thereby enhancing oneself.


    But in the real world, randomly slaughtering Cataclysmics would result in a manhunt by the Sanctuary, so Yan Chen was forced to use his other Cataclysmic ability, "Turtle''s Breath," to slowly strengthen himself.


    However, no one wanted to follow the rules and cultivate step by step when shortcuts existed.


    So, when he discovered that Larilo, the Evil God, was also on the "Life" path, Yan Chen was tempted.


    Because Evil Gods are usually Fourth Order, Fifth Order High Order Cataclysmic Creatures, if he could devour Larilo, Yan Chen''s strength would leap forward, and advancing to a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver would be just around the corner.


    But at that time, Yan Chen had not yet thought of a good way to deal with Larilo...


    Who knew, at this time, Jia Wei actually approached Yan Chen and, identifying as a disciple of Larilo, proposed cooperating with Yan Chen.


    As someone with aspirations to climb to the top, Yan Chen naturally refused Jia Wei without hesitation.


    He also strongly warned Jia Wei not to cause trouble in Xinjie City, or even his brother Jia Shu would not be able to protect him.


    However... after overtly refusing to cooperate with Jia Wei, Yan Chen secretly had a private talk with Secretary Bai.


    In the private talk, Yan Chen hinted that he wanted to devour Larilo but could not find the opportunity.


    If there were a way to lure Larilo into the real world, maybe Yan Chen could devour her and successfully advance to a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver.


    Yan Chen owed a great debt to Secretary Bai.


    So, after realizing Yan Chen''s interest in Larilo, Secretary Bai, after much contemplation, finally made up his mind and decided to put himself in the game and fulfill Yan Chen''s wish.


    Thus, he took the initiative to find Jia Wei, reached a cooperation with him, and began to assist Jia Wei.


    Faced with the olive branch suddenly extended by Secretary Bai, one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, Jia Wei certainly could not refuse.


    So, although he was somewhat puzzled, he accepted Secretary Bai without hesitation.


    Explore more stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    As a result, Secretary Bai officially became the "Evil God''s mole," starting to provide Jia Wei with various intelligence about Xinjie City and the Investigation Bureau.


    Secretary Bai was a very steady and diligent person. Knowing that Jia Wei might suspect him, he did not rush to meet Larilo, but instead played the long game, patiently providing intelligence and support.


    It was precisely such actions that, after half a year, finally won Jia Wei''s trust and led him to introduce Secretary Bai to Larilo.


    Since he was prepared to enter the game and sacrifice himself, Secretary Bai did not resist having the Believer''s Mark that could strip life and death planted by Larilo.


    This further gained the trust of Larilo and Jia Wei.


    Thus... Larilo''s various schemes began to unfold to Secretary Bai. Consequently, Secretary Bai naturally learned about Larilo''s arrival plan, including her target: Yan Yan.


    So, one night, Secretary Bai wrote down the relevant intelligence in a letter and placed it on Yan Chen''s desk.


    It was precisely with this information from Secretary Bai that Yan Chen made many targeted arrangements.


    For example... he borrowed in advance Cataclysmic treasures that could injure Evil Gods.


    For another... he prepared a body double for his daughter ahead of time, to replace his daughter and die in her stead.


    Furthermore... after confirming the date of Larilo''s arrival, he set up a large Fusion Array near the Qin Family.


    One major function of this Fusion Array was: to forcibly fuse the soul with the body, unable to separate.


    Unless one had the "ability to undo Cataclysmic abilities," escape was impossible!


    So, upon her arrival, Larilo was horrified to discover that her soul could not return to the "Boundless Heart Sea!"


    At the time, she thought there were problems with the body Old Master Qin had crafted or that she had been ambushed, so after using the Believer''s Mark to incapacitate Old Master Qin, she fled from the Qin Family and went into hiding. (Chapter 143)


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu suddenly had a thought: so... his transmigration and rebirth, along with Qin Shuman''s fusion with a new body, were actually because of Yan Chen?


    But... Yan Chen''s Array targeted the Qin Family and should not have affected Old Alley Street, right?


    Moreover, the fusion of bodies should not have caused the original souls of these two bodies to disappear, right?


    Qiu Tu felt... Yan Chen was likely a key factor in his transmigration and Qin Shuman''s fusion with a new body.


    But something else must have happened that day to ultimately lead to all this.

 Chapter 257 The Culprit Behind Time Travel? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    With that thought, Qiu Tu reined in his thoughts and continued to listen to Larilo''s narration.


    Larilo, perhaps growing weary of talking, simply flew onto the table and sat down.


    The Larilo that emerged from the ancient coins was dressed in a long, black lace gown.


    The gown clung to her exquisite figure, fluttering lightly with her every move as if a black butterfly danced in the dark night.


    She leaned against the table, her bare, white feet playfully kicked back and forth; she was pretty cute. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But combined with her blood-red lips and charming eyes, it always felt like a venomous snake was luring its prey into a trap...


    She continued, "After that, Yan Chen didn''t dare make any other move to trap me."


    "Whether it was Tian Dafu''s capture or the downfall of the Qin Family, he pretended to be learning about these events for the first time, not showing any reaction."


    "In addition, Bai Yu had been providing Jia Wei with a steady stream of information and support at the Investigation Bureau."


    "In the end, I decided to stick to the original plan: to take Yan Chen''s daughter''s place and infiltrate his side to further expand my influence in Xinjie City...."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu mused and added, "Bai Yu must have played a role in this, right?"


    "Let me guess, he must have told you that Yanyan was about to come to Xinjie City, and if you missed her now, you''d miss her forever."


    Larilo nodded with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile. The smile lacked any warmth; instead, it was filled with coldness and sarcasm.


    Her eyes twinkled with a strange light, as if she could see into people''s souls. "But.... they overlooked the most important thing."


    "That is.... my follower''s mark is not only able to control life and death."


    "But can also let me share the visual and auditory senses of my followers... that is to say, whatever my followers see and hear, I will know."


    "It happened that after becoming Yanyan, my life was very boring, just admiring flowers, picking flowers, arranging flowers.... So, I would sometimes share Bai Yu''s vision and hearing to see his work."


    "Hehe...." Saying this, Larilo let out a soft chuckle, then continued, "Guess what? Bai Yu actually has the habit of keeping a diary."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but express his amazement, "Who keeps a diary seriously?"


    Upon hearing this, Larilo giggled. As she laughed, her little feet kicked about enticingly. Stay connected with My Virtual Library Empire


    After her laughter, Larilo sat up straight, her eyes deep and indifferent, like a bottomless abyss. She said coldly, "So... I found out that he wasn''t truly loyal to me."


    "Following this clue, I backtracked the whole event, and of course, it was easy to discover Yan Chen''s plot."


    "But I knew: discovering Yan Chen''s plot was useless, the important thing was to break the game."


    "So... I sought help from a Great Evil God."


    At Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu was initially taken aback and then blurted out, "Zhao Ji?"


    This name was once told to Qiu Tu by Old Master Qin. He had said Zhao Ji was an Evil God even more powerful than Larilo, looming over Eastern City and the surrounding cities. (Chapter 229)


    Old Master Qin had once summoned Larilo in Eastern City, and when Larilo realized she was on Zhao Ji''s turf, her face immediately changed.


    Now, hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo gave him an extra glance, once again surprised by Qiu Tu''s intelligence-gathering capabilities.


    In the end, however, she nodded slightly, "Yes. It''s her."


    She added indifferently, "She is a Fifth Order Evil God, arguably the most powerful being in this world...."


    "With her around, Yan Chen can''t harm me at all."


    A wild and arrogant smile appeared on Larilo''s face. She extended her slender index finger, looked at Qiu Tu maliciously, and said with pride,


    "She just needs one strike to tear through the barrier between the Boundless Heart Sea and the real world, shattering Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law!"


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words haha. Something came up today, so it''s a bit late!


    Continuing with 10k words per day tomorrow!

 Chapter 258 Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu was genuinely shocked.


    To penetrate the barrier between two worlds and shatter Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law from another world?


    He couldn''t help but exclaim, "The Fifth Order Evil God is actually that strong?"


    Seeing the na?ve look on Qiu Tu''s face, a wicked smile curled on the corner of Larilo''s lips.


    Along with her exquisite facial features and those oddly beautiful, crimson eyes, she was like a dark flame, both sinister and eye-catching.


    She lightly touched her prominent nose with her finger and then proudly said, "So you see, Yan Chen thought he had outsmarted me, but in fact, he has fallen into our trap."


    Qiu Tu nodded in agreement and then sycophantically praised, "Your Highness is truly a master strategist."


    "It seems I was worried for nothing."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu added tentatively, "Your Highness... is there anything else you need me to do?"


    Qiu Tu thought for a moment and then added, "Now that Yan Chen has been trapped by you, he won''t be able to escape for a while."


    "The Investigation Bureau is already under my control, I can do a lot of things for you."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s gaze fixed intently on Larilo.


    He clearly saw a flash of surprise in Larilo''s eyes.


    Obviously... the fact that he had taken control of the Investigation Bureau so efficiently in just half a day was somewhat astonishing to Larilo.


    After all, Larilo had planned for so long just to control the Investigation Bureau and then spread her faith and pathways in Xinjie City. Continue reading on My Virtual Library Empire


    The thing she had failed to accomplish over many years was unexpectedly completed by Qiu Tu in just half a day, so her surprise and astonishment were understandable.


    However, that fleeting expression was just that¡ªfleeting. Larilo quickly regained her composure.


    She gave Qiu Tu a deep look and then asked, "Qiu Tu... do you truly wish to worship me?"


    Qiu Tu replied with an embarrassed face, "Not really."


    Larilo: ??


    Qiu Tu said with a cheeky grin, "I simply lust after your body."


    "Ever since I was young, I''ve had only one hobby, and that''s to be lascivious. I really want to taste the flavor of an Evil God."


    Larilo: ...


    Seeing the sincere expression on Qiu Tu''s face, Larilo narrowed her eyes dangerously, looked at him, and said in a sweet voice, "Qiu Tu~ you wouldn''t be trying to provoke me, would you?"


    Qiu Tu hurriedly waved his hands in denial.


    Then he swore solemnly, "Your Highness! I swear to heaven, if I truly harbor no ill intentions towards you, then may I be struck by lightning, run over by a carriage, or choke to death on water!" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu swear so earnestly, Larilo felt slightly relieved... Not!


    She would probably want to strangle Qiu Tu if she weren''t appearing before him right now!


    Swearing like that?!


    Guaranteeing that he harbors ill intentions?


    Such oaths only seem more detestable when fulfilled, right?!


    Thinking this, Larilo felt her chest heave with anger.


    But she ultimately maintained the dignity of an Evil God. Her eyelids drooped, and her fingers lazily played with the lace on her clothing, revealing an air of casual elegance.


    After a moment, she lifted her head, gave Qiu Tu a charming smile, and said, "I am aware of your desire."


    "It''s not that it can''t be fulfilled."


    "But... I need you to do something for me first."


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu immediately hit his chest and assured her, "Your Highness! As long as you agree to let me be your confidant, it doesn''t matter if it''s one task or ten, I am willing to do them for you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s promise, Larilo covered her mouth and giggled, "Alright then, you shall do ten tasks for me."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s speechlessness, Larilo laughed even more joyfully.


    She extended her slender fingers and said, "The first task is... I want to develop a few more followers within the Investigation Bureau."


    "I need your help to properly select these followers, to see who can be used and who cannot~~"


    Without any hesitation, Qiu Tu agreed, "Rest assured, Your Highness, I will complete the mission!"


    Seeing his eagerness, Larilo smiled even more happily and said, "The second task is... I need to know the exact time Moonlight Lake will take shape."


    "This Moonlight Lake is already fated to be mine. With it, I might have a chance to ascend to the Fifth Order."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu said with a surprised face, "Like Her Highness Zhao Ji, a Fifth Order Evil God who can break through the barriers of worlds with a single blow?"


    Larilo smiled slyly, "Yes."


    Qiu Tu hastily assured, "Your Highness, rest easy, I guarantee that I will complete the mission!"


    Larilo nodded and continued, "The third task..."


    And so, Larilo actually went through all ten tasks in detail.


    These tasks ranged from developing followers to gathering intelligence, to handling the female slaves Larilo was training, and even included massaging Larilo''s feet...


    Especially that last task of foot-massaging, Qiu Tu was for a moment unsure whether Larilo was giving him tasks or rewarding him.


    However, regardless, since Larilo mentioned them, Qiu Tu carefully took note of each task with pen and paper.


    Larilo, seeing Qiu Tu so dedicated, showed a rare look of satisfaction on her face.


    At the end of the call, she nodded to Qiu Tu and, as if tempting him with a promise, said, "Qiu Tu~ rest assured, as long as you serve me well and help develop my faith, I won''t let you down."


    "Didn''t you want to be my high priest and stay by my side all the time? I agree~~ I promise."


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with surprise and excitement and joyfully said, "Thank you, Your Highness!"

 Chapter 258 Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    "I promise I will complete the task!"


    Larilo nodded in her reserved and noble manner, then said, "Since that is the case, you may leave."


    "Once you have completed the tasks I have assigned you, you can contact me again."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded earnestly and replied, "Please rest assured, Your Highness, I will accomplish it as soon as possible."


    Larilo nodded with satisfaction.


    The next second, her body exploded into a mass of white vapor.


    For a moment, the white vapor condensed and contracted, finally returning into the form of that ancient coin.


    Then, with a "clang..." it fell onto the table, rolling around several times before it finally came to a slow stop.


    With the end of the communication and the falling of the coin, the room became eerily silent...


    At this time, Qiu Tu made no movement.


    He just watched the ancient coin quietly, then suddenly let out a soft chuckle.


    The next second, without giving the coin another glance, he took out his communicator and dialed a few numbers.


    The person on the other end had clearly been waiting for Qiu Tu''s call, so as soon as he called, the other party instantly picked up.


    At the same time, a familiar woman''s voice came from the earpiece, "How did it go? What''s the result?"


    Upon hearing the woman''s voice, Qiu Tu, while stepping out of the room, replied with a light chuckle, "I''ve almost gotten to the bottom of it."


    "She indeed fell into Yan Chen''s trap. Now, not only is her soul unable to leave that body, but she''s also restrained by the Godslayer artifact that Yan Chen had prepared long ago."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed, "It seems... our Heretic Goddess has truly taken a fall this time."


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment and couldn''t help but recall the entire conversation he had just had with Larilo.


    Larilo did possess some cunning: despite being outmaneuvered by Yan Chen, and now trapped, she remained unpanicked and tried every possible way to escape.


    And she had actually already communicated her method of escape to Qiu Tu: by leveraging the power of the Great Evil God Zhaohui, forcefully shattering Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, causing his advancement to fail and him to suffer backlash. Thus, revealing a flaw that would allow her to flee.


    As for most of what she and Qiu Tu had talked about, the mutual calculative moves between Yan Chen and herself were largely true. Or should we say, nine parts truth to one part falsehood.


    The only false part might be that Larilo had discovered Yan Chen''s trap and had made preparations in advance...


    As for the rest, Qiu Tu speculated that they were probably deductions Larilo made based on the events of these past few years after she had fallen into the trap.


    And why was Qiu Tu so certain that Larilo had truly been duped, rather than, as she claimed, turning the tables on Yan Chen and setting a trap for him?


    It was actually quite simple...


    Larilo thought she had behaved very normally, but in fact... she had overplayed her hand.


    Recalling Larilo''s entire history of interaction with Qiu Tu¡ªthe Heretic Goddess girl was arrogant, sinister, and cunning.


    During the three interactions and tests with her, although the outcomes varied, there was one constant in Larilo: she was tight-lipped! (Chapter 155, 184, 204)


    Qiu Tu was someone adept at controlling the flow of conversations and extracting information, yet he never received a single useful piece of information from Larilo.


    The only time he did get useful information, it was false¡ªLarilo claimed that Jia Shu was her follower. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, when Qiu Tu discovered that today''s Larilo, without any prompting, spilled all the beans, he immediately became certain that Larilo was lying.


    She was using her words to guide him, to feed him the information she wanted him to know or believe.


    And across all the information revealed by Larilo today, the only thing worth her elaborate deception of Qiu Tu was the fact that she had fallen into a trap. Stay connected through My Virtual Library Empire


    Qiu Tu guessed that Larilo had probably sensed something was off and amiss, but being controlled by Yan Chen, she simply had no time to escape or call for help.


    Moreover, during this time, Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had done away with all of Larilo''s core followers, leaving her with no one to contact.


    This was also why Larilo continued the conversation despite possibly knowing she had overexerted herself¡ªshe likely had no other choice, Qiu Tu was her last lifeline.


    Therefore, even if she knew she might be exposed, she... might not last much longer and had to take a gamble.


    Of course, she lost that bet.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also took out the list of ten tasks Larilo had told him to complete.


    Most of these tasks were to create a smokescreen, but one seemed to have an issue.


    "Light three sticks of incense at the east gate of Xinjie City and whisper ''My Lord Larilo'' three times."


    According to Larilo, this was to signify Qiu Tu''s allegiance to her, after which they would be on the same side.


    But... to be honest, Qiu Tu had never seen such a way of marking believers, so he surmised that it was probably a distress signal.


    The east gate was precisely the direction of Eastern City, and the incense might be a special kind of signal, while "My Lord Larilo" was clearly to notify Zhaohui who needed help.


    It was through these two major details that Qiu Tu became certain that Larilo was not as shrewd as she claimed, but instead was trapped!


    He conveyed his entire analysis to Qin Shuman.

 Chapter 258 Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    After pondering for a moment, Qin Shuman also agreed with Qiu Tu''s idea.


    She said, "Larilo must indeed be out of core believers who can save her. That''s why she clings to you like a drowning person to a straw, ready to make a desperate last stand."


    Then Qin Shuman asked, "So, what do you plan to do?"


    As Qiu Tu walked to the end of the corridor and stood by the window, he said with a smile, "It''s quite simple. Just one word: ''Stall!''


    "Since she wants to play the game, I''ll play along."


    "After all, I originally wanted to delay Yan Chen''s time."


    "Now, I don''t even need to brainwash her, just give her a sliver of hope, and that''s enough for her to keep going."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu further remarked, "Judging from my interaction with Larilo, she should be fine for at least two or three days. Still lively and kicking."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman chuckled on the other end of the phone, then she said, "Just don''t be too sure of yourself... aren''t you afraid that she actually has an ace up her sleeve and decides to just flip the table and quit the game?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed indifferently, "Flip the table and quit? Wouldn''t that be perfect?"


    "Yan Chen would surely get backlash from that, right?"


    Qiu Tu said, "I actually just figured it out today."


    "I used to think that both of them are my enemies, and no matter who wins, I would be in a lot of trouble eventually."


    "But now, my thoughts are different: I think that no matter who wins, I will have one less enemy"


    "All I need to do is take down the other one."


    "That directly cuts the work in half!"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s carefree statement, Qin Shuman joked with a laugh, "You, truly a disciple of Larilo. You''ve learned her ways of the Carefree Faction."


    Standing by the corridor window, Qiu Tu gazed at the still brilliant phantom image of the giant tree in the sky and remarked feelingly, "Can''t help it. If I''m not slightly optimistic, I would''ve been crushed long ago." sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We moved carefully, wading through so many dangers. Wasn''t that easy~~" Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    Qin Shuman responded with a laugh, "Indeed. We do need to stay optimistic."


    And just as Qiu Tu was looking at the night view, chatting with Qin Shuman...


    Suddenly... a loud "Boom!" exploded right next to Qiu Tu''s ear!


    In that instant, his ears were "buzzing"! It was as if countless bees were flapping their wings right beside his head, creating a piercing buzz!


    Before he could even react, "Woof, woof! Woof woof woof!" frenzied barking erupted from downstairs!


    The explosion had clearly startled Shen Lingshuang, who had been asleep.


    Wearing a small bear pajamas that Qiu Tu had specially bought for her that afternoon, Shen Lingshuang, clutching a nearly life-size doll, ran out of the bedroom, her face stricken with terror!


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman, on the other end of the line, had also heard the explosion and asked anxiously, "What was that noise! Qiu Tu! Are you okay over there? What happened?"


    Qiu Tu himself had just recovered from the roar of the bomb exploding close by.


    He looked down following the shattered wall.


    Then he saw the pitch-dark villa exterior, where who knows how many figures in black were hiding.


    The one directly facing him was a person in black, shoulder-launching a rocket launcher, aiming at him, preparing to fire a second rocket.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu first glanced at the rapidly blinking [Countdown to the Revenge of the United Front] in the upper left corner of his field of vision, and then he calmly said to Qin Shuman, "It''s nothing... it must be the United Front''s retaliation."


    "They''ve brought heavy weaponry."


    "Now they''re bombarding my mansion."


    --------


    Still 2 chapters in 10,000 words, haha. Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 259 Qiu Tu: You Think You Have More People Than Me? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was clearly shocked!


    Weapons like rocket launchers were not just some ordinary small guns or cannons; they were true heavy artillery with immense power.


    Even a Third Order Cataclysmic Awakened might be gravely injured if hit by one. Find more chapters on My Virtual Library Empire


    It goes without saying for Qiu Tu, a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, who would likely be killed instantly.


    Moreover, such heavy artillery wasn''t common, The military in the Planning Area didn''t have many, and neither the Investigation Bureau nor City Hall had any at all.


    Therefore, having one in the hands of the United Front, an anti-government armed force, definitely counted as a rare item!


    To think that today they would bring it out just to assassinate Qiu Tu.


    Clearly, the United Front was determined to succeed this time.


    Thinking this, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but furrow her brows deeply.


    She said with decisiveness, "Qiu Tu, you need to hide immediately, I''ll arrange someone to rescue you!"


    Having said that, she was about to hang up the communicator with a solemn expression.


    However, at that moment, Qiu Tu merely smiled lightly and said, "Don''t be nervous."


    "If a deputy director of the Investigation Bureau were to be assassinated at home, would the Bureau still have any face left?"


    As she heard Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman pressed the ''call'' button on her desk while speaking sternly, "Don''t be reckless! You have no idea the power of a rocket launcher!"


    Meanwhile, accompanied by her voice, in Qiu Tu''s line of sight, the United Front mobster carrying the rocket launcher also sneered and pulled the trigger!


    The very next second, the rocket roared out of the launcher, zooming straight towards Qiu Tu!


    Time seemed to slow down at that moment.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes clearly saw the white tail flame of the rocket as it shot towards him with an unstoppable force!


    To his left was a wall, to his right the stairs he could leap down to reach the hall.


    But... right behind him was Shen Lingshuang, who had just run out of the bedroom.


    If Qiu Tu were to jump down the stairs, he could avoid danger, but Shen Lingshuang would inevitably be blown to pieces.


    If Qiu Tu didn''t dodge and took the blast head-on, Shen Lingshuang might barely survive, but Qiu Tu would most likely die on the spot!


    This was a difficult choice!


    So, in that instant, Shen Lingshuang, who saw this scene unfold, had despair written all over her face; and the members of the United Front outside the villa already had triumphant smiles on their faces.


    Clearly, they all thought that for someone like Qiu Tu, who always considered interests above all, abandoning Shen Lingshuang was obviously in his best interest!


    At that moment,


    Just when everyone thought everything was already sealed,


    Qiu Tu acted as if he was already prepared. He touched the Gold-Addicted Wallet inside his jacket with his left hand, extended his right hand lightly forward, and pointed at the incoming rocket!


    The very next second, his Second Order Cataclysmic ability ''Order Space'' unfolded!


    The rocket, which had already reached in front of Qiu Tu, was abruptly halted!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu let out a breath of relief and a smile curled up at the corner of his mouth. As he had guessed, his Cataclysmic ability might struggle to suppress an exploding grenade but could change its direction of flight... S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His experiment that afternoon wasn''t in vain!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu swung his right hand fiercely, causing the rocket to fly back and then explode mid-air!


    There was a loud "Boom!"


    The blast wave of the exploding rocket stirred up clouds of dust and leaves!


    A gust of wind blew in through the blown-out section of the villa!


    Shen Lingshuang cried out and fell to the ground,


    Brushing past Qiu Tu''s face, making his hair rustle in the wind!


    The wind, carrying dust, made her nightgown flutter loudly, she cried out "Ah~" while holding down her skirt with one hand, and shielding her disheveled hair with the other!


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman on the other end of the line clearly heard the sound of the rocket explosion!


    She was startled, and then hastily asked, "Hello! Hello! Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu!? Are you okay?"


    At that moment, Qiu Tu simply said softly, "Rest assured, everything is under control. Wait for me a few minutes, I''ll be back to chat afterwards."


    After that, Qiu Tu bent down to place the communicator on the ground, then stepped forward and leapt through the blasted gap from the second floor of the villa.


    Qiu Tu''s frightening ability to control the rocket had terrified the Lianzhen mobsters!


    Ordinary people were unaware of the Catastrophe Power; they still lived in the era of firearms. Suddenly witnessing such supernatural powers, they were all green with fear!


    So, when they saw Qiu Tu, unharmed by the rockets, jump down and approach them, they were all stupefied!


    Some bold ones still knew to raise their handguns and aim at Qiu Tu.


    The cowardly ones were already trembling and looked like they were about to flee at any moment.


    Seeing this, the leading United Front mobster knew he couldn''t let Qiu Tu continue to intimidate his troops.


    He clearly knew some secrets about the Cataclysmics.


    So he stared at Qiu Tu with a mixture of fear and bravado and yelled, "Don''t fucking play tricks! It''s just a Cataclysmic ability, isn''t it?"


    "Using these abilities comes at a cost! Controlling the rocket must have been quite draining for you, right?"


    "How many times can you withstand it?"


    His use of technical terms may have been somewhat incomprehensible to the mobsters, but... they could understand simple phrases like "not a small consumption" and "how many times can you endure."


    So, they immediately grasped the "Major''s" point: the formidable man before them was just a paper tiger, easily punctured with a few jabs!

 Chapter 259 Qiu Tu: You Think You Have More People Than Me? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    As they thought this, they regained some courage for a time!


    Seeing that he had boosted morale with just a few words, the leader, a "Major," also breathed a sigh of relief.


    He steadied himself, then glared at Qiu Tu with venom, saying, "Qiu Tu, it''s your fault for repeatedly opposing us."


    "And for often slaughtering our brothers."


    "Today, we came to get even."


    With that, the Major pointed at Qiu Tu''s villa and said, "This time, we''ve come with four squads, more than fifty men in total, all armed with firearms."


    "Now, the first and second squads have already entered your villa from the front and back."


    "The third, fourth, and fifth squads are surrounding it from the outside."


    "You can''t run, and you can''t win."


    "Surrender, and we can give you a quick end... and we might even spare your wife''s life!"


    Hearing the Major''s words, Qiu Tu was not at all panicked. He looked at him calmly and composedly.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu chuckled lightly and then said, "Does having more people make you powerful?"


    The Major replied, "Of course! More people, more power!"


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly. "More people... the United Front can''t surpass our Investigation Bureau in numbers."


    With that, Qiu Tu put his hand to his mouth and blew a piercing whistle!


    The shrill sound echoed through the sky above the villa!


    And with that whistle, the lights in the surrounding villas suddenly flared on, and the noisy, dense sound of footsteps began to resound in the dark night!


    Teams of Special Service Detectives from the Investigation Bureau ran out from various villas, their rifles trained cautiously on the United Front members present.


    Simultaneously, a rapid burst of gunfire, "bang, bang, bang, bang!" erupted from the first floor of Qiu Tu''s villa!


    Muzzles flashed as they fired, accompanied by one scream after another!


    At this moment, the United Front members in front of Qiu Tu were scared stiff. They hastily raised their guns, attempting to confront the encroaching Investigation Bureau detectives.


    Just then, windows on the second floors of the surrounding villas opened, and more rifles were positioned at high points, aimed at them.


    In just a few seconds, the situation on the ground had reversed.


    At this point, the Major''s mind went completely blank.


    He watched the continually emerging Special Service Detectives, unable to comprehend what was unfolding before him!


    Visibly, he saw nearly 200 trained Special Service Detectives. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And how many more were hidden inside Qiu Tu''s villa and still running out was anyone''s guess.


    At that instant, only one thought crossed the Major''s mind: Just to protect a deputy bureau chief, how many people did the Special Service Department deploy?!


    Even the protection detail for the Investigation Bureau Chief wasn''t usually this extravagant, was it?!


    Meanwhile, the gunfire inside the villa gradually subsided.


    Shortly after, Shen Lingshuang, a female Special Service Detective, emerged from the villa holding Xiao Bai in her arms.


    Shen Lingshuang had already regained her composure. She looked towards Qiu Tu, nodded slightly to signal that all was well.


    At this time, the female Special Service Detective also saluted Qiu Tu, then said with a spirited look, "Reporting to the chief! The 20 Lianzhen mobsters who entered the villa have all been eliminated!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave a deep "hmm" and then turned his attention to the Lianzhen Major who was still standing dumbfounded in front of him.


    By now, the Major was scared witless, clearly not expecting Qiu Tu to have arranged such an extensive ambush.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "It seems that having more people is indeed powerful."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s somewhat mocking remark, the Major swallowed hard, then looked at Qiu Tu resentfully and asked, puzzled, "If you had the ambush prepared in advance, why did you play with us like this? Even taking a rocket!


    Qiu Tu just smiled. "Because this was all a carefully planned performance!"


    "I''m the director, and you are an actor in this play."


    "As for the audience..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s gaze pierced through the darkness towards the slowly lighting Longshan Road villa community in the distance.


    The Major sensed his gaze, his eyes fluctuated slightly as if he had guessed something.


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    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t continue. Instead, he smiled at the Major and said, "All right, Mr. United Front officer. I have answered your questions, and now... it''s your turn to surrender."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Major looked deeply at Qiu Tu and then said, "You''re really a madman!"


    Having said that, he took a couple of deep breaths and slowly raised his hands above his head.


    Seeing their leader surrender, the other United Front members also dropped their weapons and slowly raised their hands.


    Watching this unfold, Qiu Tu signalled to Fang Ming and Ah-Tai at the forefront of the Special Service detectives.


    Fang Ming gave a slight nod towards Qiu Tu and commanded, "Cuff them all!"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s command, his team members quickly moved forward to handcuff the subdued Lianzhen mobsters.


    During the handcuffing, Ah-Tai took out his little hammer and unceremoniously struck the Major''s shin, preemptively avenging the rocket attack for Qiu Tu.


    The Major cried out in pain, "Ouch!" and knelt on the ground, then turned angrily to look at Ah-Tai.


    But when he saw the towering figure of the large man, he swallowed hard and shut his mouth...


    And so, with the attacking United Front members all subdued, Qiu Tu turned to head back and call Qin Shuman.

 Chapter 259 Qiu Tu: You Think You Have More People Than Me? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    At that moment, Cao Dabiao came running out of the villa, holding a communicator that was still in the middle of a call, and handed it over to Qiu Tu.


    While handing the device to Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao also took the opportunity to suck up, "It''s all thanks to the commander''s strategic planning, having calculated everything ahead of time."


    Qiu Tu gave him a glance and accepted the communicator with a smile.


    From the communicator, the sound of Qin Shuman commanding troop deployments could be faintly heard.


    "Where are you now? How much longer until you reach Longshan Road?"


    "I''m not here to listen to your explanations, get over there now! If necessary, use the Cataclysmic treasures!"


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    "Also, check with The military and see if there are any troops stationed near Longshan Road. If there are, give me their number!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s assertive arrangements, Qiu Tu felt a warmth in his heart.


    He coughed and then said, "Shuman, the matter has been resolved."


    Qin Shuman must have set the communicator aside and didn''t hear.


    So, after a moment of hesitation, Qiu Tu first ended the call, then dialed Qin Shuman''s number again.


    This time, Qin Shuman indeed picked up promptly.


    As soon as the call connected, Qin Shuman''s voice came through, full of concern, "Qiu Tu?! Are you alright?"


    Feeling the woman''s concern from the other end, Qiu Tu smiled and said nonchalantly, "Of course, I''m fine."


    "Just a bunch of small fry, already taken care of."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu joked, "I said it would take only a few minutes, and indeed it did, didn''t it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman paused, then couldn''t help but laugh, "You do keep your word."


    Afterward, she couldn''t resist asking, "How did you resolve it?"


    In front of Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu didn''t need to hide anything, so he let out a "hmph" and said indifferently, "How else?


    "Of course, by preparing in advance."


    Qiu Tu said, "Don''t forget, Yan Chen is in the midst of leveling up, and Director Tang and I have taken control of the entire Investigation Bureau."


    "Now we have all the police forces of the various departments of the Investigation Bureau in our hands!"


    "Power unused is power wasted!"


    "I knew United Front was going to come seeking revenge these days, so I directly moved 300 Special Service Department agents to clear out a dozen villas near me and stationed them around to protect me."


    "With such a grand display, no matter how many United Front sends, they would have to answer here."


    "But... who lets me be in charge of the Investigation Bureau now!"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s extremely arrogant words, Qin Shuman was somewhat incredulous. She opened her mouth in disbelief, paused for a moment, and then tentatively said, "It''s probably good that you have so many people protecting you." sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "After all, United Front just sent an assassin to attack you today."


    "Although they were not successful, it does prove that they have indeed been plotting against you recently." (Chapter 247)


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He knew United Front would come to attack him, not because of the "Lone Wolf" assassination, but through the "Crisis Countdown" he had seen.


    The "Crisis Countdown" showed United Front''s attack on him today, with only 2.5 days left. (Chapter 241)


    And the attack would most likely happen at night.


    So... if not tonight, then tomorrow night.


    A wise man does not stand under a wall that''s about to collapse. And since power unused is power wasted, Qiu Tu naturally pulled out all stops for security these two days!


    Of course... when Qiu Tu made these arrangements, he used the excuse of the "Lone Wolf" trying to assassinate him.


    Thanks to this legitimate reason, the Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, despite looking unpleasant, could not refuse.


    Now that United Front really came to attack, Qiu Tu not only proved his "foresight," but also further confirmed that the assassin who killed Huang Shangzong''s confidant Wu Zhi was a member of United Front.


    It was indeed killing two birds with one stone...


    As Qiu Tu was thinking this, Qin Shuman seemed to have thought of something and suddenly asked, "Qiu Tu, did you just say you moved soldiers to clear out over a dozen villas near you?"


    "You do live on Longshan Road."


    "Those who live on Longshan Road are not ordinary people."


    "Although they''ve left the power center of Xinjie City, they still wield tremendous influence." (Chapter 83)


    "You didn''t end up in conflict with them over this, did you?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and replied, "Of course not."


    "I''m much more familiar with Longshan Road than you."


    "So, not only did I avoid conflicts with them, but I also prepared a grand performance especially for them!"


    "After all, once Yan Chen comes out, if Director Tang and I intend to compete with him, Longshan Road could provide us with a lot of help...."


    At this point, Qiu Tu looked toward the distance as if struck by a thought, then he softly said, "Speak of the devil, here they come...."


    -------


    20,000 words in this chapter, huh! I''ll continue with 10,000 words per day tomorrow! Requesting Monthly Tickets!!

 Chapter 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    And with Qiu Tu''s words, several opulent eldsters indeed appeared in the distance.


    Their hair was gray, but meticulously groomed, the silvery strands shimmering under the lights of Longshan Road.


    Possibly due to long-standing upper positions, their demeanors were dignified and their eyes as deep as still waters, radiating an aura of majesty without anger.


    They were... the legendary figures known as "The Five Elders," who once controlled Xinjie City for over a decade.


    The backgrounds of "The Five Elders" varied, but were similar in one respect: they all started from gangs, moved on to enterprises, took control of the livelihoods of the citizenry, and finally established the order of the city.


    Initially, when they had control of Xinjie, relations among The Five Elders were tense, with endless overt and covert struggles.


    Unexpectedly, after being purged from the power center of Xinjie City by Yan Chen and General Ye, they ended up living together and even becoming good friends...


    It could be considered a whimsical twist of fate.


    However, as Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had discussed, although these five elderly men had withdrawn from the core stage of power in Xinjie City, they still wielded a considerable influence over it.


    Just this afternoon, Qiu Tu had taken the time to engage in a deep conversation with Tang Feifei¡ªyes, a truly deep exchange.


    In the midst of it, they came to a consensus: the authority they had now was temporary and superficial.


    Only by using this power to rally more people and solidify their base at the grassroots level could they make this authority endure.


    Only then, when Yan Chen returned, would they be able to stand up to him and even marginalize Yan Chen!


    So, who wielded the most influence over the grassroots of the three major institutions in Xinjie City? Read latest stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    Clearly, it was The Five Elders...


    After all, the grassroots of the three major institutions were the middle class of old Xinjie City, or their children.


    And they had all been subordinates to The Five Elders...


    Thus, gaining the support of The Five Elders could mean quickly penetrating the grassroots of the Investigation Bureau, thereby fulfilling their goal of sidelining Yan Chen.


    After setting the goal of winning over "The Five Elders."


    The remaining question was... whether "The Five Elders" were still willing to get involved in these power struggles or not?


    And... how would Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei persuade "The Five Elders"?


    Regarding the first question, Qiu Tu soon gave Tang Feifei a definite answer.


    Over this period, "The Five Elders" had actually been getting restless. (Chapter 138) S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    According to the objective development laws of cities in the Planning Area, within one to three years after a city''s founding, many contradictions that were suppressed at the outset tend to erupt in unison.


    The various major families and forces of the original city, having gradually adapted to the rules of the Planning Area, would start scheming to wrest power and profit from the middle and upper echelons coming down from the Sanctuary.


    "The Five Elders" were no exception.


    Hence, the two of them had a basis for cooperation with them.


    As for the second question, how to persuade "The Five Elders," Qiu Tu had thought of several aspects.


    The first aspect was undoubtedly "enticement."


    If The Five Elders were still craving power and wished to exert their influence, then Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would give them power and influence.


    After all... the Investigation Bureau belonged to Yan Chen, the two of them wouldn''t mind spending its resources.


    Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, being essentially newcomers in Xinjie City, didn''t have many confidants to install. So... they would install those of The Five Elders instead.


    Promote some confidants of The Five Elders, or transfer them to key departments. Give power to The Five Elders.


    By doing this, they could not only draw The Five Elders to their side, but also plant landmines between Old Wu and Yan Chen.


    ¡ª After Yan Chen finished his seclusion, if he didn''t adjust those positions, The Five Elders could continue to use their influence; but as soon as he did, friction between the two parties would inevitably intensify.


    Beyond "enticement," the second aspect was "displaying strength."


    Simply providing benefits would only make people greedier; showing one''s own potency formed the basis for genuine cooperation.


    And this strength wasn''t just in terms of influence, but also in actual power.


    That is to say... Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had to show The Five Elders that they were capable of dealing with them at any moment.


    Only then could they prevent The Five Elders from taking the benefits offered but then betraying them at the next turn.


    Hence... there was tonight''s grand performance...


    Qiu Tu flung away rockets with one hand and then single-handedly intimidated three squads of the Lianzhen! Eventually, hundreds of Special Service Detectives appeared and captured all the Lianzhen mobsters.


    Actually, Qiu Tu didn''t know from the start that he would be facing rockets this evening.


    Throughout the afternoon, he had been practicing his Second Order "Order Space," specifically working on "Static Bullet."


    He aimed to create a staggering scene where countless bullets flew at him, but he stopped them all in mid-air.


    For this, he had practiced all afternoon until he was finally able to effortlessly hold the bullets'' trajectories in place.


    It was only because his spiritual power had greatly increased after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened that his "Order Space" could "pause" and "move." (Chapter 218)


    Otherwise, he couldn''t have pulled off such a "performance."


    Of course, even so, he was fully equipped with defensive Cataclysmic treasures, just in case his abilities failed and his attempt to impress turned fatal.


    Luckily, even though the Lianzhen used rocket launchers instead of firearms, these were still within the effective range of his abilities, allowing Qiu Tu to showcase his terrifying strength in front of The Five Elders.


    After running through all of his arrangements for the afternoon in his mind, Qiu Tu also returned to his senses.

 Chapter 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    He whispered a few words to Qin Shuman, hung up the phone, and then stepped towards The Five Elders.


    Soon, the two sides met.


    Qiu Tu was the first to greet them, "Elder Lu, Elder Fang, Elder Tian, Elder Wei, Elder Xie. I''m truly indebted to you all today for helping vacate the villa next to mine to hide the troops."


    "And for diverting the patrol away."


    "Otherwise, my ''lure the enemy in deep'' and ''catch them all in one go'' plan tonight would have been quite difficult to execute."


    Although Qiu Tu''s main goal was to showcase his military strength in front of The Five Elders, the excuse he used was: United Front was as slippery as eels, if it was a chance encounter or an attempt to apprehend them in advance, there was a high chance that half would escape.


    Hence, Qiu Tu wanted to use himself as bait to lure them into Longshan Road, and into his villa before capturing them all in one go.


    The reason was both legitimate and reasonable.


    Moreover, The Five Elders probably guessed Qiu Tu''s true intentions and also wanted to witness Qiu Tu''s "military strength," so they quickly reached an agreement, which led to this grand spectacle.


    At this moment, after watching the grand spectacle, The Five Elders'' feelings were evidently mixed.


    Elder Lu, the leader of The Five Elders, looked deeply at Qiu Tu and then genuinely lamented, "The times have truly changed..."


    As he spoke, the horrifying scene of Qiu Tu single-handedly deflecting a rocket flashed through his mind.


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    Earlier, The Five Elders had all witnessed that shocking moment through the cameras installed around Qiu Tu''s villa in advance.


    Even though they had already learned of the Cataclysmics and the Catastrophe Power from various sources.


    But knowing and seeing were different matters.


    Especially since Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic ability was very special, and this scene was specifically trained for and performed by him, the visual impact was incredibly shocking.


    Thus, in that instant, the five men had only one thought: The times have truly changed...


    It was no longer the era of conventional weapons, but the Era of Disaster... S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Following this line of thought, the five men pondered even more:


    If Qiu Tu were to come to assassinate them, could they escape unscathed?


    The answer was clearly negative...


    Therefore, at that moment, they understood: they either do not cooperate, or once they do, they must keep their promises faithfully.


    This cooperation was irreversible!


    Thinking this way, after his reflection, Elder Lu also took the initiative to gesture to Qiu Tu, "Minister Qiu, let''s go to my villa for a detailed discussion."


    "We have also prepared some gifts for you..."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Then I shall respectfully comply."


    Saying so, the group headed to Elder Lu''s villa.


    The Five Elders'' villas were, of course, located in the core area of Longshan Road, as they were Xinjie City''s most distinguished individuals.


    The defensive forces along the way were clearly stronger, and with the United Front''s attack today, The Five Elders had deployed even more personnel.


    Hence, along the way, Qiu Tu saw many private armed forces, whose physique and equipment were comparable to the Special Service Department''s.


    In fact, they might even be stronger than the Special Service Department, having been battle-hardened through many fights.


    When Qiu Tu initially eliminated Jia Shu, besides wanting to utilize Liu Xiongyuan, his contingency plan was actually the private military forces of Longshan Road. (Chapter 184)


    At that time, he had figured that if Liu Xiongyuan did not agree, he would then borrow long guns through Fang Ming and snipe Jia Shu personally...


    Arriving at Elder Lu''s villa in the center of Longshan Road, the six men stepped in.


    After entering the villa''s living room and taking their seats, Elder Lu looked at Qiu Tu and smiled, "I heard that... Minister Qiu is particularly fond of the ''Facial Milk'' service at the Emerald Fort Night Club."


    "Coincidentally, we old fellows haven''t washed our faces for a while."


    "Hence, today I''ve also specially selected a batch of quality ''Facial Milk.''


    "Now, let me call them in, and we''ll talk about our collaboration while washing our faces!"


    As he spoke, Elder Lu lost his smile and clapped his hands.


    After a moment, two rows of beautiful women with attractive figures walked in.


    They wore revealing clothing, with a silk miniskirt at the bottom that barely covered their vital parts, and a light gauze bellyband on top.


    Pair after pair of fair and generous breasts were partially concealed under the bellybands, making them even more enticing.


    Before the six men, they bowed in unison, "Welcome to the distinguished guests~~~"


    Hearing the pleasant sound like that of an oriole, Qiu Tu pretended to show a look of intoxication and appreciation on his face, but the corner of his eyes quickly swept over the five elders...


    The five clearly had seen much of the world, and having been with many women over the years, despite the rich and enticing scene before them, their expressions remained somewhat serious, lacking much lust in their eyes...


    ''Indeed... Those with great ambitions cannot indulge in sensual pleasures.''


    ''I''ll start abstaining from tomorrow!''


    ''Oh, no. Starting today! After all... tonight they made me do it. This is all for work...''


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Elder Lu also began to speak slowly.


    He leaned on the sofa and smiled at Qiu Tu, "Shall we start now?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Let''s begin~"


    Upon Qiu Tu''s agreement, the young women quickly settled next to the six men in order.


    Elder Lu had indeed arranged everything with sincerity, with each person being flanked by beauties, their enjoyment apparent.


    "Slap slap~~slap slap~~" Feeling the soft comfort on his face, Qiu Tu lifted his head from the ''Facial Milk'' and asked, "Elder Lu, what did you think of the grand spectacle tonight?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Lu lifted his head from the ''Facial Milk.''

 Chapter 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Perhaps it''s been too long since he last washed his face with milk, as his complexion had become much redder.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and then said with a smile, "Minister Qiu''s proposal is quite interesting."


    "You said that by working together, we can ensure Xinjie City is still governed by the People of Xinjie."


    "You''ll handle the relationships upstairs, while we do the groundwork. Together, we control the Investigation Bureau."


    "To be honest, all of us were really interested."


    "But... we''re old now, and we''ve lost our grip on power. Whether our subordinates will still listen to us, and to what extent, that''s what we''re really unsure about."


    Hearing Elder Lu''s words, Qiu Tu, who had been brooding over the facial cleanser in front of the young woman, replied in a muffled voice, "Elder Lu is too modest."


    "Back when my brothers and I were still mingling with the gangs, we had heard of your esteemed name."


    "Controlling the pure water source of Xinjie City, over a million people''s drinking water depended on your mood."


    "Not to mention the two major business groups under you, you also support seven or eight gangs."


    "Our Wen Mountain Gang is said to be one of the gangs under your control."


    "So I''m very aware of how your subordinates feel about you."


    "The same goes for Elder Fang, Elder Tian, Elder Wei, and Elder Xie."


    "That''s why I believe that as long as you''re willing to stand up, there would certainly be an overwhelming response." Read new adventures at My Virtual Library Empire Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Fang, who ranked second, slowly said, "Actually... apart from whether our subordinates still recognize us or not, we are also very concerned about Director Yan''s attitude after his seclusion ends."


    Compared to Elder Lu''s deflections, he was much more straightforward, "You promise to promote our people, but... when Director Yan returns, will he demote them again? Will he be displeased with us?"


    "These are all things we need to consider..."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Qiu Tu smiled as he pinched the dough in front of him and said bluntly, "When in this world are there ever perfect opportunities?"


    "To gain something, one must take on the corresponding risks."


    "If there really were a surefire way to profit without risk, how could outsiders have a chance at it?"


    "We would have dealt with it internally a long time ago."


    "So, this is a huge gamble. If we win, we govern the Investigation Bureau together. If we lose..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "You elders, with your status and positions, Yan Chen wouldn''t possibly eradicate you completely."


    "It seems you would just stay as you are now, retiring peacefully here...."


    "That''s not much of a loss, right?"


    "Besides... haven''t you also not given up lately, always looking for opportunities?"


    The Five Elders, although they once held high status, equivalent to the current Three Giants of Xinjie City,


    they had after all retired and were directly cleared out by the Three Giants.


    Therefore, even though they still held a certain influence, compared to someone like Qiu Tu, who had real power in the Investigation Bureau as Deputy Minister, they were somewhat lesser.


    Therefore, while Qiu Tu outwardly showed them great respect, he kept firm control of the conversation.


    At first, Qiu Tu had spoken roundabout on the subject, but now, seeing the "Five Elders" actually hesitating, he decided to lay it all out and speak plainly.


    At this moment, hearing Qiu Tu delving straight into this sensitive matter,


    The Five Elders exchanged glances, as if communicating their opinions through their eyes.


    A moment passed... Suddenly, Elder Lu broke the silence, changing the subject.


    He asked Qiu Tu with a smile, "By the way, isn''t Minister Qiu still unmarried?"


    "The Pharmacist you keep in the villa... is she your...?"


    -----


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words! Begging for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 261 This girl bears fruit on delicate branches (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Elder Lu''s words, Qiu Tu wrapped his arms around the slender waist of the girl in front of him, then looked up.


    Elder Lu''s expression was a bit playful, as if the answer Qiu Tu was about to give was very important.


    Qiu Tu''s mind raced, and after a moment, he said with a smile, "Fianc¨¦e? Elder Lu must be joking."


    "She''s just my cohabiting roommate." Find adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    At Qiu Tu''s words, The Five Elders couldn''t help but burst into laughter with a "haha." Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Among them, Elder Xie, the weakest, teased laughingly, "What a roommate, Minister Qiu really is a cunning one."


    Everyone knew that Qiu Tu''s words were said in jest, but it was enough because they knew Qiu Tu had guessed their intentions and had given a "positive response."


    No matter how ridiculous or nonsensical the response was, it still clearly indicated Qiu Tu''s stance.


    All six of them were old foxes; some things didn''t need to be stated too explicitly.


    Thinking this, Elder Lu gave Elder Fang a look. Elder Fang nodded knowingly.


    Then he said to Qiu Tu, who was still immersed in the softness of the girl before him, "Minister Qiu, for a man, the most important thing is to establish a family and career."


    "Now that you''ve built your career, it''s time to find a good match and start a family."


    "Us old guys happen to have a few granddaughters around your age, you see... maybe you''d like to meet them?"


    While Elder Fang was talking, Qiu Tu''s head was still buried in the facial cleanser of the girl in his arms.


    He seemed to be enjoying himself, smelling and clinging, but his mind couldn''t help but be clear.


    The sudden switch of The Five Elders to discussing his marriage was obviously not genuine concern, but rather a negotiation of terms.


    That is to say, the condition for Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to get The Five Elders'' help was ¡ª an arranged marriage.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu found it somewhat amusing.


    Indeed, no matter the world, power was like AIDS, only transmittable through blood, from mother to child, and sexually.


    Only by marrying their daughters, becoming family, would they truly help him wholeheartedly.


    Put plainly... they weren''t satisfied with being used as chess pieces, they wanted to be the players, placing heavy bets on him.


    The only regrettable thing... was the woman who would be sacrificed.


    This could be seen from the fact that he was still holding this scantily clad girl with a generous chest, discussing such a major issue as marriage ¡ª In the eyes of The Five Elders, their granddaughters were merely tools.


    If even their own family did not care, why should he?


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also raised his head, and smiling, he agreed, "Elder Fang, don''t say... I''ve actually been really thinking about settling down recently."


    "So, meeting up with a few ladies of good fortune to see if there''s a connection indeed wouldn''t be bad."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, The Five Elders exchanged glances. Then Elder Fang gave a signal to Elder Xie.


    Elder Xie promptly said with a laugh, "That''s great. "


    "Our granddaughters are just having a gathering next door; I''ll ask them to come over."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu had a guess in mind: It seems... The Five Elders had everything planned out for this evening, otherwise, such a coincidence wouldn''t happen.


    And as he was thinking this, Elder Xie gestured towards someone behind him.


    Following his summons, a man in a suit promptly approached, respectfully handing him a communicator.


    Elder Xie picked up the communicator, made a call, and then chatted for a few sentences.


    Moments later, he hung up with a smile and said, "Jingjing and the others will be right over."


    Hearing Elder Xie''s words, Elder Lu also clapped his hands solemnly and shook his head.


    Seeing his gesture, a dozen or so girls quickly climbed off the six men, bowed respectfully, and then left in a line.


    Clearly, although The Five Elders did not care about their granddaughters, they knew better than to behave in such a manner in front of them.


    The facial treatment over, Qiu Tu was somewhat reluctant to let go.


    He leaned back on the sofa, then looked at Elder Xie, curiously asking, "Elder Xie, may I know how many ladies of good fortune I''ll be meeting later?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Elder Xie said with a chuckle, "Five. One from each family."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then curiously asked, "How many can I choose?"


    Elder Xie:...


    The other four Elders:...


    At this moment, Elder Lu hurriedly chimed in with a smile, "Minister Qiu, you must be joking. A wife, of course, there can be only one."


    At those words, Qiu Tu nodded, somewhat disappointed...


    He had thought that The Five Elders, in order to tie him down, were ready to present all of their wealthy and renowned granddaughters to him in one go.


    But to only offer one?


    Weren''t they afraid the sole woman who won his favor would be unreliable?


    And as Qiu Tu thought this, before long, five beauties walked in from outside.


    They varied in age, the youngest only eighteen or nineteen, the oldest looking about twenty-six or twenty-seven.


    Coming from wealthy families, with plenty of time and money for self-care and grooming, and the genetic enhancement from their mothers'' beauty, they were all attractive, with delicate skin, and fashionable.


    Their parents had clearly briefed them earlier, and they knew what they were facing tonight.


    Therefore, upon entering, they first coyly glanced at Qiu Tu, then bowed slightly to The Five Elders, sweetly calling out, "Grandpa~~"


    Seeing them, The Five Elders'' expressions hardly changed.


    This was understandable; having once controlled Xinjie City, they had no shortage of women in their lives, having changed who knows how many. Thus, they had numerous offspring.


    And those many children had given birth to who knows how many grandsons and granddaughters.

 Chapter 261 This girl bears fruit on delicate branches (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Among them, only a few important successors might often come into contact, like these granddaughters arranged for political marriage, it''s hard to say how many times they had seen each other before today...


    Therefore, faced with this situation, Qiu Tu didn''t even wait for these five distinguished young ladies to introduce themselves with their names, ages, and hobbies before he directly spoke up, saying, "Elder Xie, bring in another group. I don''t like this batch."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the atmosphere at the scene stagnated. The expressions on the faces of several girls were a bit difficult to maintain.


    The youngest one even had reddened eyes.


    It was likely that if The Five Elders weren''t there, they would have burst into curses or tears.


    At this moment, the expressions on The Five Elders'' faces weren''t great either.


    After all, Qiu Tu''s somewhat insulting remarks, although directed at their granddaughters, were also a slap in their faces.


    So, their expressions darkened slightly.


    Elder Xie tentatively glanced at Elder Lu, who was leading them. Elder Lu glanced at Qiu Tu, who was leaning on the sofa with his legs crossed as if nothing was amiss, his face went through several changes before he finally gave Elder Xie a slight nod.


    Upon hearing this, Elder Xie, with a smile, said, "Alright then. Since there''s no fate, you ladies can go back to the gathering."


    Hearing Elder Xie''s words, the five distinguished young ladies left the living room with unsightly expressions.


    From beginning to end, they didn''t dare to show even a hint of dissatisfaction.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, still with his legs crossed and looking up at the ceiling, exuded an air of frivolity and arrogance, yet the corners of his mouth imperceptibly curled into a smile.


    He wasn''t deliberately insulting those five daughters of fortunate families, nor was he intentionally provoking The Five Elders. He was probing...


    The Five Elders had clearly come prepared tonight.


    From the granddaughters'' gathering already arranged, to probing the relationship between Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang, to their understanding of the Investigation Bureau and Qiu Tu, one could see that they had put in quite some work in preparation for today.


    Moreover, since his interaction with The Five Elders began, Qiu Tu had noticed their division of labor was clear:


    Elder Lu was the leader of the five, and the last line of defense, hence he seldom spoke, merely guiding the entire process of the evening. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This not only confirmed his central position but also added a layer of insurance to all of tonight''s negotiations¡ªas long as he didn''t speak, there was room for maneuver.


    And Elder Fang, being Fang Ming''s grandfather and closest to Qiu Tu, plus with the emotional connection of Fang Ming, played the "good cop."


    All sensitive issues that might provoke Qiu Tu''s antagonism or rejection were raised by him, such as "Yan Chen''s revenge," "political marriage," and so on.


    As for Elder Xie, because he held the lowest status among the five, he took on the role of the "bad cop," with a gentle attitude, smoothing over tensions, and flattering Qiu Tu.


    Even the silent Elder Tian and Elder Wei served as the last reserves: if the talks truly broke down, they could take the opportunity to align with Qiu Tu another day as a last-ditch effort to remedy the situation.


    It was because he saw through The Five Elders'' entire layout tonight that Qiu Tu suddenly realized... The Five Elders seemed to value tonight''s negotiations even more than he and Tang Feifei did.


    Otherwise, they would not have set up so many safeguards.


    Having realized this, Qiu Tu suddenly grasped the pulse of tonight''s negotiations.


    However, uncertain whether his guess was wrong, he tested The Five Elders'' bottom line in this manner.


    Sure enough, everything was as he had analyzed: The Five Elders valued the negotiations more than he thought...


    At this time, The Five Elders were still unaware that Qiu Tu had grasped their bottom line with just a simple probe. Discover exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    After they exchanged a few glances, Elder Xie took the initiative to speak again, "By the way, Minister Qiu, I just heard Jingjing say that she has a few sisters who happen to be playing cards there as well."


    "How about I invite them over for a chat?"


    Hearing Elder Xie''s words and confident in his understanding, Qiu Tu smiled and then nodded, "Then I''ll trouble Elder Xie."


    Seeing Qiu Tu agree once more, Elder Xie breathed a sigh of relief.


    He took out his communicator again and made a call.


    Soon another five daughters of wealthy families appeared before Qiu Tu.


    Because he had already probed earlier, this time Qiu Tu patiently listened as the five girls finished introducing themselves and then asked a few questions before shaking his head to Elder Xie.


    Clearly, he did not like any of these five girls either.


    Although still rejected by Qiu Tu, perhaps because he behaved very normally this time, The Five Elders weren''t angry.


    This "political marriage" was indeed different from other normal political marriages.


    In a regular marriage alliance, the parties involved are at least closely matched in strength and may help each other in the future.


    Therefore, feelings don''t matter, and the person involved is not important. Anyone will do.


    But the marriage alliance with Qiu Tu was different.


    The few of them, although still able to deal with Qiu Tu, were relying on their past influence.


    However, Qiu Tu was a deputy head of the Political Department in his early twenties, with an extremely promising future.


    They were like one going downhill, and one climbing up. As time went on, the gap between them would only grow wider, and more women would gather around Qiu Tu.


    In such a situation, if it was just an indifferent tool for marriage, Qiu Tu could kick them away at any time.


    So, it was better to expend more effort to let Qiu Tu truly pick a girl he liked.


    That way, even if there was a great disparity between them in the future, as long as the girl stayed by Qiu Tu''s side, there would still be a trace of kinship.


    If Qiu Tu truly liked the girl very much, and she whispered in his ear by his pillow, their five families might even be revitalized through Qiu Tu''s second bloom.

 Chapter 261 This girl bears fruit on delicate branches (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    So, next, Elder Xie started introducing Qiu Tu to girls from The Five Elders'' families in batches.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu felt like his eyes were opened.


    He had long known that in times of chaos, Local Tyrants and Old Warlords had the best life: making their own rules, without restraint.


    And indeed, rumors often circulated in Xinjie City that The Five Elders would coerce, bribe, or outright force any girl they fancied into submission.


    Now, having seen granddaughter after granddaughter of varying ages presented by The Five Elders, Qiu Tu believed it: those stories weren''t fabrications; they were real.


    Those five old men truly had a blast in their youth! These decades had not been lived in vain!


    After going through seven or eight batches, just when Qiu Tu was getting tired of the changes, and The Five Elders began to doubt his sincerity,


    the next batch of granddaughters was brought in.


    Perhaps because all the direct granddaughters had already been reviewed, this time it was the turn of five girls from collateral branches of The Five Elders'' families.


    When that batch of granddaughters was presented, Qiu Tu''s gaze was involuntarily drawn to the last of the five girls.


    She looked like she was only seventeen or eighteen, with a small goose-egg face and big eyes, slightly drawn brows, exuding an air of innocence and cuteness.


    She wasn''t tall, seemingly about 1.6 meters, but she had a good figure, slender but well-endowed, stirring a dangerous sense of desire.


    Maybe because of her familial background, she wasn''t very confident in herself, so upon entering, she hunched her body like a small quail, her head bowed, casting timid glances at Qiu Tu. Enjoy new adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    The Five Elders were all shrewd. From the moment Qiu Tu started asking for replacements, they kept their peripheral vision on him.


    Qiu Tu had seen so many girls without his expression wavering, but this time, when this girl came out, his eyes kept darting up to her.


    Thus, they couldn''t help but glance at each other, finally showing a hint of a smile.


    Elder Xie was still the one eager to cater to Qiu Tu. So, with a smile, he gestured at the girl and said, "Tangtang, come out."


    Hearing this, the girl timidly raised her head, then stared blankly at Elder Xie before turning her pleading gaze to Elder Fang.


    A simple gesture revealed her identity beyond a doubt: a girl from the Fang Family.


    ''Fang Tangtang?'' Qiu Tu silently repeated the name inside his head and couldn''t help but smile. It felt like fate¡­


    The reason he had lingered on Fang Tangtang was merely because he had seen too many girls and become a bit distracted, then unexpectedly seeing one with such a figure made him think of the "facial cleanser" from earlier.


    He was pondering: If one used such a big "facial cleanser" to wash your face, could you get smothered to death?


    Who knew that The Five Elders would misinterpret that...


    But it was alright; he had been selecting for so long, it was time to decide, so he didn''t bother to clarify the misunderstanding.


    Meanwhile, seeing that Qiu Tu was accepting this girl, Elder Lu gestured the other four girls to leave, implying it was time for them to step down.


    Seeing this, the other girls, all too aware of the outcome, envied Tangtang as they reluctantly left the hall.


    But after the girls left, the six people didn''t immediately discuss the matter of Fang Tangtang but suddenly reopened the previous topic.


    Elder Fang gestured to someone behind him, and a Suit Man came up with a document. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Elder Fang handed the document to Qiu Tu, saying, "Minister Qiu, we know that you and Director Tang have been desperately seeking capable people recently."


    "In the past, we were considered top figures in Xinjie City and had a fair understanding of other families."


    "These are individuals with exceptional abilities and character; you might want to take a look."


    Hearing these words, Qiu Tu smiled and took the document, then opened it to take a look.


    The next second, Qiu Tu was startled by the names on that page.


    -------

 Chapter 262 That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Explore hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    From the actions of The Five Elders tonight, it was clear they came prepared.


    Obviously, they had been collecting data and information on the middle and senior ranks of the Investigation Bureau long before, and had been laying out their plans early on.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu found them, they were able to come up with such a detailed and interconnected plan in such a short time.


    This also meant that those who made it onto their list tonight must be those they had verified and who were still obeying them now.


    Moreover... due to the weaker foundation of trust between the parties, this was certainly not the complete list.


    Just now, Qiu Tu had merely glanced over one page of the list and found that it included at least sixty to seventy people.


    Moreover, these sixty to seventy individuals were all Second-Class Investigators, First Level Detectives, or even Deputy Staff.


    These were the seeds of the Bureau Chief ranking sequence.


    Besides these sixty to seventy people, how many confidants did The Five Elders have in the Investigation Bureau? Forty? Fifty? Sixty?


    And beyond the Investigation Bureau, in the military and City Hall, how many confidants had The Five Elders planted?


    Apart from these directly commandable confidants, how many people could The Five Elders influence?


    Thinking it through, despite The Five Elders having stepped down, they had been continuously infiltrating the three major power institutions throughout this year with significant effect.


    It was only because their upper-level connections had been severed and they could no longer place confidants in the middle ranks; moreover, the elite families who were close to them were tacitly excluded from Xinjie City''s core power circle by Yan Chen and the other Two Giants.


    Otherwise, they would still be the Local Tyrants of Xinjie City.


    ''These five old men are really terrifying....''


    ''No wonder Yan Chen and the others would rather cooperate with elite families like the Qin Family, just to suppress these five old men.''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu also briefly looked over the list in his hand.


    The Five Elders were thorough in their work; the list not only categorized the Deputy Staff, First Level Detectives, and Second-Class Investigators, but even classified and annotated the various departments properly.


    Thus, Qiu Tu only needed a quick glance to grasp the details of The Five Elders'' promotion list.


    43 Second-Class Investigators promoted to First Level Detectives.


    22 First Level Detectives promoted to Deputy Staff.


    9 Deputy Staff promoted to Staff Chiefs.


    If this promotion list were truly confirmed, then it could be said that The Five Elders'' strength in the Investigation Bureau would greatly increase.


    43 teams, 31 departments, all would be influenced by The Five Elders.


    Of course... they would also obey Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    Combined with the thirty-some confidants Qiu Tu himself intended to promote, and the unknown number of confidants Tang Feifei had hidden,


    once this wave of promotions passed, at least close to half of the teams and departments of the Investigation Bureau would be controlled by Qiu Tu''s side.


    ''Enough to contend with Yan Chen.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu closed the list in his hand, then looked towards Elder Lu and said with a smile, "Elder Lu, Director Tang and I will go back and study this list thoroughly."


    "Rest assured. As long as their abilities are indeed good, and... they know what they should and shouldn''t do, we will certainly focus on cultivating them." S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Five Elders clearly understood Qiu Tu''s hint.


    "What they should and shouldn''t do", in plain terms, was to make these dozens of people understand whose side they really should take in the future.


    It wouldn''t do for them to switch sides to Yan Chen the moment they got scared after Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei promoted them.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, The Five Elders exchanged glances. This time, Elder Lu personally gave his assurance.


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a grave and serious tone, saying, "Minister Qiu, rest assured, these people are all trustworthy."


    Whether they could be trusted or not wasn''t for The Five Elders to decide, so Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "I plan to meet with these individuals tomorrow."


    "At that time, my secretary will notify them."


    "After the meetings, I will call Elder Lu to communicate and confirm the final list."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then added, "So, I would appreciate it if you could pass the message to them tonight, that they are my people now and must follow my orders."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Lu nodded slightly, "No problem."


    Once the cooperation had been settled, the atmosphere on the scene immediately became more harmonious.


    Possibly because they had truly boarded the same boat, the six individuals clearly became more sincere.


    However, as the conversation grew livelier, Fang Tangtang, who had been standing in the center of the living room like an exhibit, was nearly in tears.


    She was just a girl from a collateral branch of the Fang Family; by lineage, she should have been the granddaughter of Elder Fang''s younger brother''s fourth son.


    She had never even dreamt of meeting a significant figure like Elder Fang, let alone her own grandfather, whom she had seen only a few times.


    Since her family''s connection to Elder Fang was distant, they had received much lesser protection.


    Her father and mother were just relying on the leftovers of Elder Fang''s influence to have decent jobs in Xinjie City, getting some extra income from the Fang Family every month.


    Tonight, she had already gone to bed early at home. Suddenly, Elder Fang''s secretary came to her house and woke her up.


    Saying that she was to meet Elder Fang.


    In front of such a significant person as Elder Fang''s secretary, her parents didn''t dare say a word. After confirming with her grandfather over the phone, they handed her over to Elder Fang''s secretary.


    Thus, in a daze, she followed Elder Fang''s secretary and several other attractive young women to Longshan Road.


    It wasn''t until after entering Longshan Road that she learned the full story from the other girls: apparently, there was a great power that even Elder Fang had to curry favor with, and he was "selecting consorts."

 Chapter 262 That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, all the eligible, unmarried girls of the Fang Family were summoned to Longshan Road.


    It was only upon arriving at Longshan Road that Fang Tangtang learned it was not just her family; the other four families of equal status to Elder Fang were also gathering eligible, unmarried girls, hoping to win the favor of this great personage.


    At that moment, Fang Tangtang, even with her limited understanding of the politics in Xinjie City, gained an intuitive impression of the unseen great person''s power and influence.


    Because of this, she never imagined she would be chosen. All she wanted was to be quickly selected and then go back to sleep¡ªshe was still so sleepy.


    So, with that thought in mind, she waited and waited, and finally, her name was called.


    Frankly speaking, Fang Tangtang was very scared appearing suddenly before so many important figures, and she didn''t know how to react.


    Thus, she could only clutch the corner of her clothes, hanging her head, timid and daring not to make any movements.


    Then, something unexpected happened: she was chosen.


    At that moment, Fang Tangtang''s mind went blank. She had no idea why this had happened or what she should do.


    So, she just stood there, dazed, watching the nobles converse in a language she couldn''t understand at all. She felt a bit faint¡­.


    With worry and fear added in, her eyes were already reddened, and she was close to crying¡­.


    At this time, perhaps sensing the girl''s anxious and frightened emotions, Elder Fang glanced over and beckoned in a timely manner, "You''re called Tangtang, right? Come here."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Fang Tangtang swallowed and obediently took steps toward him. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Maybe it was because she was dizzy or maybe because she was scared, but after taking just one step, her legs gave way, and she stumbled to the ground.


    Falling to the floor, Fang Tangtang looked up for help at the six individuals. But they just sat on the sofa, watching her with cold eyes.


    Seeing this, Tangtang bit her lip, got up from the ground, and then carefully walked over to Elder Fang.


    Only then did Elder Fang act as if he had just seen Tangtang fall, and jokingly said with warmth, "How big are you already, and still tripping over."


    Having said that, he didn''t even wait for Tangtang to respond. He took Tangtang''s hand and walked to Qiu Tu, placing it in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Then he patted Qiu Tu''s hand and said, "I''m entrusting my granddaughter to you now."


    "She is the jewel of our Fang Family, so you must treat her well."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Tangtang looked up at Qiu Tu with a puzzled face.


    She wanted to say... she wasn''t any jewel of the Fang Family and had never even met Elder Fang.


    But... thinking of her parents, thinking of her grandfather, she could only lower her head timidly.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu, too, was smiling as he held Tangtang''s hand, then said, "Elder Fang, don''t worry, I will treat Tangtang well."


    "Although I might not be able to give her a status, I will always be good to her."


    The Five Elders had arranged so many direct relatives, but Qiu Tu chose none; as soon as a collateral relative was suggested, Qiu Tu agreed, essentially to "break the agreement."


    The Five Elders wanted to secure an alliance through marriage, to bind Qiu Tu with pillow talk, but Qiu Tu was not interested.


    Pillow talk was one thing, but marriage was out of the question.


    Not to mention that Qiu Tu currently had no intention of marrying; even if he did, he certainly would not marry a woman he had never met.


    Qin Shuman, Shen Lingshuang, or even Tang Feifei, weren''t they appealing?


    And from the perspective of interests, didn''t each of his women have a background stronger than that of The Five Elders?


    Being a live-in son-in-law to them was better than forming an alliance with The Five Elders.


    So, from the very beginning, Qiu Tu had been prepared to break the agreement.


    And for this, he had laid groundwork for a long time. He believed The Five Elders had more or less guessed his intentions.


    Indeed, after Qiu Tu said this, aside from Fang Tangtang''s bewildered face, The Five Elders showed no surprise.


    Elder Lu smiled and said, "No worries. We are not old fogeys."


    "In troubled times, ah. Let''s keep it simple."


    "As long as you truly care for Tangtang, we are content."


    Qiu Tu smiled and reached out to wrap his hands around Fang Tangtang''s slender waist, then said, "Elder Lu, rest assured, I will definitely take good care of Tangtang."


    The words of the few sounded extremely warm and sincere. But underneath, they were so cold¡­.


    In a few words, the girl''s fate was decided¡­.


    ¡­.


    Night.


    Fang Tangtang''s dowry villa.


    In the bedroom, Fang Tangtang looked bewildered at Qiu Tu, not quite grasping the situation: was she... married now?


    Fang Tangtang felt like everything was just a dream.


    She didn''t even know who the person before her eyes was, and yet it seemed she had followed this person vaguely.


    Two hours ago, she was still sleeping in her own bed at home.


    And now, as she was thinking this, Qiu Tu also turned around and looked at her with a calmness verging on emotionlessness, saying, "Change your clothes."


    2 minutes later, Fang Tangtang''s enviable, ample buxom burst forth from her clothes, held in Qiu Tu''s hands¡­.


    15 minutes later, accompanied by a cry from Fang Tangtang, a cherry blossom slowly bloomed on the bedsheets¡­.


    The night wasn''t long, but for Fang Tangtang, and perhaps many others, it was a life-altering one. Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    The next day, Fang Tangtang got up. Qiu Tu was already gone, as if nothing had happened the night before.


    Bearing the pain, Fang Tangtang got out of bed. As soon as she stepped out of the bedroom, she realized her mother seemed to have been waiting outside the door all along.

 Chapter 262 That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    Seeing Fang Tangtang come out, her mother poked her head in to look at the bedsheets in the bedroom.


    Upon seeing the clear bloodstain on the bed, an overjoyed expression instantly appeared on her face.


    She was a bit excited as she grabbed Fang Tangtang and asked in a low voice, "Last night... last night, did you and Minister Qiu, you know?"


    Fang Tangtang turned crimson at the mention.


    Seeing this, her mother''s face grew even more joyful, "That''s great, that''s great. Now we have an explanation for the head of the family! And our family is going to prosper!"


    ....


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau.


    Qiu Tu had momentarily put Fang Tangtang to the back of his mind.


    She was just a woman, after all; when it''s time to consume, consume you must.


    Indecision and procrastination don''t suit anyone, let alone a monk.


    Moreover, he knew that consuming Fang Tangtang last night was a result that was good for everyone.


    The Five Elders Council would be completely reassured, knowing that Qiu Tu was sincere in wanting to cooperate, and not just keeping up appearances with Fang Tangtang as a surface couple.


    Fang Tangtang and her family would also receive kindness and support from The Five Elders.


    As for Qiu Tu...


    Recalling his various trials from last night, he could confirm: indeed, having enough facial cleanser truly could suffocate someone!


    It was really soft and comfortable!


    With that thought, he secretly admired Fang Tangtang''s inherent facial cleanser physique for a moment before refocusing his mind on important matters!


    The Investigation Bureau was still not under control, Yan Chen hadn''t lost the Deputy Speaker position yet, and Moonlight Lake hadn''t been detonated; Qiu Tu couldn''t afford to be careless.


    Everything he currently possessed, including the rich ladies he had picked like choosing a concubine last night, including Fang Tangtang who was sent to his bed after just one glance, including the several hundred Special Service Detectives guarding him, all came with his power, which would vanish should he lose it.


    Therefore, after arriving at the Investigation Bureau today, he met all 74 people on the list from last night, one by one.


    His purpose was simple, besides getting a basic understanding of them, Qiu Tu also wanted to check their [Loyalty].


    Based on their [Loyalty], he would decide whether to promote them or not.


    Last night, after The Five Elders notified them to follow his command and they had expressed their allegiance to him, a superior-subordinate relationship was established between them and Qiu Tu, and so their Loyalty was displayed.


    Somewhat to Qiu Tu''s surprise: out of those 74 people, 50 had a Loyalty above 40.


    Of the remaining 24, aside from 4 problematic individuals with Loyalty below 20, the rest were all above 30.


    This also showed the control The Five Elders had over them.


    The Five Elders had been in decline for a year and a half, and yet these people still did as they were told.


    Qiu Tu suspected that the Loyalty of those Confidants to The Five Elders must all be above 60. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, this didn''t worry Qiu Tu much.


    With the [Loyalty Game], Qiu Tu felt it was only a matter of time before he turned that batch of The Five Elders'' Confidants into his own.


    ''They were yours before, but they will all be mine in the future!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced at the list once more before taking the prepared promotion list and leaving the office to find Tang Feifei on the 12th floor, ready to officially perform a major blood change in the Investigation Bureau!


    Taking the elevator to the 12th floor.


    Just as Qiu Tu was stepping towards Tang Feifei''s office, he saw two individuals tussling at the door of Tang Feifei''s office.


    Su Xiaowan, "Secretary Tan, waiting here all the time is useless. The Bureau Chief doesn''t want to see you means she doesn''t want to see you."


    "And why are you pleading on Director Zheng''s behalf? Aren''t you Minister Qiu''s secretary?"


    At the end, Su Xiaowan''s face was filled with curiosity and gossip, clearly a bit puzzled about the relationship between the three people.


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    ------


    Still 2 chapters totaling 10,000 words haha. The next chapter is around 24:00. Looking for Monthly Tickets~~~

 Chapter 263 Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tan Hui Min''s face also turned noticeably awkward.


    She unnaturally gathered the stray hair by her ear and then stuttered, "I''m not pleading for Director Zheng, but explaining his actions."


    "I am indeed Minister Qiu''s secretary, but Minister Qiu is also a person who acts fairly. He knows that Director Zheng was used by others and feels... um... that such a punishment is a bit too severe."


    "So... I''m not trying to ask Director Tang to let Director Zheng go, but to give him a fair punishment."


    Hearing Tan Hui Min''s totally untenable excuse, Su Xiaowan looked at her as if she were looking at an idiot.


    Su Xiaowan pointed to her own nose and then said with an innocent face, "Secretary Tan... I may be a bit silly, and my brain isn''t the sharpest. But I''m not that silly."


    "Your excuse can''t even deceive me, let alone the Bureau Chief?"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tan Hui Min became anxious and hurriedly tried to explain further, but at this moment, out of the corner of her eye, Su Xiaowan just happened to see Qiu Tu.


    She blinked her eyes and then looked up with a face full of surprise and waved, greeting, "Minister Qiu~~ Minister Qiu~~"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s greeting, Qiu Tu, who had been happily watching the drama from behind, knew he couldn''t continue to watch any longer.


    So he walked towards the two with a smile, taking those brisk steps.


    Meanwhile, hearing Su Xiaowan''s greeting and the footsteps behind her, Tan Hui Min''s face turned deathly pale in an instant.


    Her expression froze, and she stiffly turned around, then looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of despair.


    What is a person''s most embarrassing and frightening moment? Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire


    It''s not lying, but being caught lying by the very person they''re lying about.


    And moreover... this person has his hands stained with blood, is notoriously ruthless, and kills without batting an eye.


    Especially considering the corpses of United Front members brought from Longshan Road this morning, those United Front members who were tortured with severe punishment...


    And the widely discussed tale within the Investigation Bureau of Qiu Tu catching a rocket launcher with his bare hands, then overpowering a squad of five United Front members with his own strength.


    At that moment, Tan Hui Min went blank, her legs weakening, barely able to stand.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, who was walking towards her, forced a fake smile, and opened her mouth to say something.


    But as the words reached her lips, she felt her mouth dry and her throat tightening, as if she couldn''t utter a word....


    While she remained silent, Su Xiaowan did speak up.


    Perhaps because she was one of Qin Shuman''s "stunt doubles" and had worked on cases with Qiu Tu, sharing secrets, she always saw Qiu Tu as one of her own.


    So, she bounced over to Qiu Tu, tugged at Qiu Tu''s sleeve, pointed at Tan Hui Min, and complained, "Minister Qiu, you''re not looking after your secretary."


    "She came to see the Bureau Chief early this morning. As she''s your secretary, the Bureau Chief thought it was arranged by you, so he met with her."


    "But who would have thought she''d actually plead for Director Zheng in front of the Bureau Chief?"


    Saying this, Su Xiaowan felt a relatable anger, "Director Zheng is the one who framed and trapped you, trying to put you to death!"


    "Such a person, not being executed by a firing squad is already a show of your magnanimity! Your secretary should condemn him with you and turn this case into an ironclad one!" S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But she actually pleaded for Director Zheng!"


    Saying this, Su Xiaowan pouted cutely and discontentedly, "I really don''t understand whose side she''s on!"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s vivid words, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Tan Hui Min''s loyalty is, of course, with Zheng Tao right now.


    However, in the future, that loyalty might become his own....


    While being accused by Su Xiaowan, Tan Hui Min watched Qiu Tu with a pale face, like a convict waiting for her sentence.


    Time and again humiliated in various plays by Qiu Tu, Tan Hui Min had long seen Qiu Tu''s true nature.


    He was a devil who took pleasure in tormenting the human heart.


    So when she realized she had run into that devil, her heart was already filled with despair.


    She was fully prepared for the upcoming exposure, humiliation, and torment.


    However, at that moment, something unexpected happened.


    Qiu Tu touched Su Xiaowan''s head and then said with a smile, "Xiaowan, you''ve misunderstood. Indeed, I asked Secretary Tan to find the Bureau Chief."


    "I also feel that Director Zheng''s punishment is a little too harsh. This is not conducive to the stability and unity of our Investigation Bureau at the moment."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min was dumbfounded at first, and immediately afterward, she looked at Qiu Tu in shock.


    Clearly, she had no idea why Qiu Tu would cover for her!


    And... what did Qiu Tu say just now? He also thinks Director Zheng''s punishment is too severe?


    For someone of Qiu Tu''s status, even if not every word is golden, he still has to take responsibility for what he says.


    With Qiu Tu saying this just outside Tang Feifei''s office door, it will soon be spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    So... is Qiu Tu truly planning to spare Ah-Tao?


    Thinking thus, Tan Hui Min found it hard to believe for a moment.


    Yesterday, she had shamefully bared her body, and Qiu Tu even used his fingers to enter her, subjecting her to a round of humiliation.


    Even then, Qiu Tu did not relent.


    And now, he''s relenting?


    For a moment, Tan Hui Min''s brain short-circuited.


    But simple-minded Su Xiaowan was more accepting of the new developments.


    Hearing that Qiu Tu was preparing to let Zheng Tao go, she first gave a cute "Ah?" and then scratched her head before saying, "I see."


    "Xiaowan doesn''t understand. But Xiaowan thinks there must be a good reason for the Minister''s decision."

 Chapter 263 Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Having said that, she cheerily said to Qiu Tu, "Does the minister want to see the Bureau Chief now? I''ll go and let her know."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Please do, Xiaowan. That would be troublesome."


    Su Xiaowan cutely nodded her head and then hurriedly "pitter-pattered" into the office.


    At this time, after seeing Su Xiaowan leave, Qiu Tu walked over to Tan Huimin.


    He naturally placed his hand on Tan Huimin''s waist, then looking towards Director Tang''s office door, he started speaking indifferently, "I was wondering why you weren''t in the office all morning."


    "So you were here to see Director Tang...."


    Feeling the warmth of Qiu Tu''s hand, Tan Huimin''s body trembled.


    She intended to pull away Qiu Tu''s hand, but remembering what he had said just a moment ago, she didn''t dare to move.


    She lowered her head to her ample chest and whispered pleadingly, "Minister... please, save Ah-Tao."


    Once she finished, she looked up, her eyes slightly reddened, and said, "I really can''t live without him."


    Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu looked down at her and teased, "Aren''t you going to offer something this time?" S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Just an empty plea?"


    The words from Qiu Tu made Tan Huimin''s body uncontrollably shiver.


    Qiu Tu looked up at the tightly shut office door and then blandly said, "In my homeland, when making a plea, you need to show your...."


    "Stop, don''t say anymore!" Perhaps the subject was too shameful, as Tan Huimin reached out and grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Qiu Tu looked down at Tan Huimin, and she also looked up at him with teary eyes.


    Gently touching her pretty oval face, Qiu Tu leaned in and whispered in her ear, "My lady, you...."


    Qiu Tu deliberately stretched the sound, causing Tan Huimin, who only heard the first three words, to involuntarily recall what Qiu Tu had said yesterday, "My lady, your body is still very honest...."


    It also made her involuntarily remember Qiu Tu''s teasing from yesterday.


    While she clenched her legs together as she was flooded with these memories, Qiu Tu softly finished his sentence, "My lady, you''re... so beautiful."


    Qiu Tu''s sudden earnestness overwhelmed Tan Huimin.


    And at this moment, the office door was opened from the inside.


    Su Xiaowan stepped out and said to Qiu Tu, "Minister, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you inside."


    After that, she looked at the two of them with a somewhat puzzled gaze at their bizarre and somewhat intimate posture, blinking her eyes.


    Seeing Su Xiaowan''s expression, Tan Huimin quickly let go of the arm she was holding in panic.


    Qiu Tu smiled in response and then nodded to Su Xiaowan, "Alright, I''ll go in now to see her."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu also told Tan Huimin, "Come with me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin was clearly surprised.


    She knew that her relationship with Qiu Tu was far from that of a confidant. Qiu Tu never involved her in serious discussions.


    So why had he suddenly decided to include her today?


    Was there some sort of scheme?


    Thinking of Qiu Tu''s manipulative tactics, Tan Huimin felt both fear and trepidation.


    But whether for work or for personal reasons, whenever Qiu Tu asked, she had no means to refuse, so she could only bite her lip and follow Qiu Tu into the office with her long legs.


    Staying behind, Su Xiaowan curiously watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, then looked bewilderedly at Tan Huimin''s back.


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    ''After all... Is the world of influential people this complicated? What exactly is their relationship?''


    ...


    Ever since forcefully taking charge of the Investigation Bureau yesterday, Director Tang had obviously become much busier.


    The upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau didn''t want to get involved in the conflict between Director Tang and Yan Chen, nor did they want to offend Huang Shangzong, so they all kept a watch from the sidelines.


    Moreover, with Secretary Bai being captured, this resulted in many of the basic affairs of the Investigation Bureau piling up on Director Tang.


    So, when he arrived at Director Tang''s office, she was incessantly flipping through and annotating documents.


    Knowing that Qiu Tu would come, Director Tang, without raising her head when she heard his footsteps, said, "Take a seat first, I''ll finish this document and then we can talk."


    Given the close relationship between the two, Qiu Tu naturally didn''t act like a stranger. On hearing her words, he then seated himself on the chair across from Director Tang''s desk.


    Meanwhile, Tan Huimin obediently stood behind Qiu Tu, her hands crossed over her abdomen, silent.


    Waiting thus for a minute for Director Tang, she then set aside the document and raised her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Director Tang was already attractive, and her wheat-colored skin and spirited eyes and brows added to her remarkable aura.


    Now, with the power of the Investigation Bureau in her hands and each word and deed determining the fate of tens or hundreds of thousands of people of Xinjie, her presence had become even more formidable.


    Her eyes, like those of a lioness, were domineering and compelling, making it difficult for others to meet her gaze directly.


    Her gaze first fell on Tan Huimin.


    With just one look, Tan Huimin felt as if she had been targeted by a wild beast; her body swayed unconsciously and she began to sweat.


    Director Tang glanced at her indifferently, then turned to Qiu Tu, speaking with the authority of a superior, "Well? Have you got any results?"


    Seeing Director Tang''s assertive demeanor, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember how they had intensely deliberated on plans the day before, with her going at full throttle.


    Honestly, the only thought Qiu Tu had at that moment was: Second Order Cataclysmics just aren''t enough. I need to raise my own strength!


    After a momentary drift in thought, Qiu Tu returned to the present.


    When the conversation turned to serious matters, both became more solemn.

 Chapter 263 Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    He looked at Tang Feifei with a serious expression and said, "This morning, I had my subordinates call all the confidants of The Five Elders to my office for a meeting."


    "Apart from four who may have some issues, the rest are quite good. They could be worth cultivating and using."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu stood up and handed the document he was holding to Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei took the document, opened it, and saw that it was two pages long.


    After looking up at Qiu Tu, he said, "The first page lists the confidants I''ve cultivated during this period."


    "Cao Dabiao, although somewhat slippery, is still relatively trustworthy. He can be placed in the Administrative Office as a section chief for now to take advantage of his strengths."


    "Moving from a deputy section chief in a strong department to a section chief in a weaker department will also encounter much less resistance."


    "Chen Feng is calm and composed, with the air of a great general. He got injured while saving me and is still in the hospital, but once he is discharged, he should be capable of holding his own."


    "I think we could arrange for him to take a position as a deputy section chief in the Action Division."


    "As for the others, like Eagle, Ah-Kun, Ah-Tai, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, they were either my brothers from before or the direct lineage who weathered storms with me, and they can be trusted."


    "I plan to promote them all to First Level Detectives this time and place them in the Political Department''s Action Division, so nearly half of the Action Division would be under our control."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei played with the pen in her hand, thoughtful.


    After a moment, she looked down at the second page, glanced at the list provided by The Five Elders, and then fell into deep thought.


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    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Where do you think we should first place these seventy people from The Five Elders?"


    Qiu Tu did not hesitate to say, "Special Service Department."


    Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, as if pondering Qiu Tu''s suggestion.


    Qiu Tu also explained his thought, "Although we''re currently managing the Investigation Bureau on behalf of Yan Chen, when he comes back, all power must be returned to him."


    "At that time, only those under your authority''s protection will be the safest."


    Tang Feifei leaned back in her chair, her attractive wheat-colored face full of contemplation¡­.


    Qiu Tu said, "And your authority has been squeezed by Yan Chen to just the [Training] department."


    "Over this past year, the level of the detectives trained by the Special Service Department is there for all to see." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu said, "When I was under the protection of the Special Service Department, they fired hundreds of shots and couldn''t even take down a single enemy." (Chapter 6)


    "We can take this opportunity to place that batch of First Level Detectives into the Special Service Department and then, under the guise of training, transfer the squads they control to the Training Department for training."


    "In this way, even if Yan Chen comes back, you will be able to protect this group of fresh forces."


    "With these thousands of detectives, plus the few hundred I control in the Political Department, we will also have a foundation in Xinjie City and be able to contend with Yan Chen."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei closed her eyes and pondered for a while. After a moment, she placed the pen on the table and then said decisively, "Then, let''s do it your way!"


    "I''ll go find Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin now to promote these people''s positions!"


    Having said that, the ever-decisive Tang Feifei picked up the telephone from the table, ready to call the other two senior leaders.


    Just at that moment, however, Qiu Tu stopped her, "Bureau Chief, wait a moment."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tan Huimin beside him and said, "I actually have another matter to discuss on this visit."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s movements halted, and then she looked at him.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "My secretary has been telling me that Director Zheng has been wrongfully accused."


    "I''ve reflected on my interactions with Director Zheng."


    "Actually, we''ve always had a good relationship. He was even willing to leave his family in my trust."


    ------


    For those who have just caught up to this point in the story, let me tell you. Two chapters of 10,000 words each are generally released daily, one at midnight and another at 4 a.m. or 5 a.m.


    You can all read them together in the morning~~


    Seeking Monthly Tickets~~~


    ```

 Chapter 264 Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon mentioning "Trust Wife and Foster Son," Qiu Tu''s gaze swept across Tan Huimin without betraying any emotion.


    Tang Feifei didn''t understand the implication of Qiu Tu''s words, but Tan Huimin fully grasped the humiliation embedded in them.


    Her hands involuntarily clenched tight.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu carried on, "That''s why I think there''s likely been a misunderstanding."


    "So, I would like to meet him personally, interrogate him."


    "And see if he has anything he''s willing to share with me."


    "If there really is some misunderstanding, then I think either reducing the punishment or even releasing Director Zheng would be possible."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin abruptly looked down at him.


    If Qiu Tu suggesting Zheng Tao''s punishment was excessive at the door of Tang Feifei''s office could be interpreted as making excuses for her,


    now Qiu Tu''s initiative to make such a request definitely wasn''t for making excuses; he truly meant it!


    ''Could it be... he actually plans to let Ah-Tao off?''


    For a moment, Tan Huimin herself couldn''t quite believe it.


    Therefore, following that thought, some other terrible ideas started to take root in her mind:


    Could it be that Qiu Tu intends to... in front of Ah-Tao, do something to me...?


    Or perhaps... plan to use Ah-Tao''s release to make some other excessive demands from me...?


    Thinking of these possibilities made Tan Huimin clench her hands even tighter.


    She wanted to refuse, yet could not bear to give up her husband''s only chance, so she could only close her eyes, take a deep breath, and suppress the palpitations in her heart.


    Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin with a puzzled expression.


    A woman''s intuition told her there was something off between these two. Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    But then... the relationship between Qiu Tu and herself was merely transactional anyway, so she didn''t really care.


    Add to that, the last few days had been too crucial for her, so she didn''t delve into it but just nodded indifferently, "Okay. Then I''ll hand over the disposition authority of this case to you. You handle it."


    After speaking, Tang Feifei rummaged through the pile of documents on her desk, pulled out one, swiftly made a note, signed her name, and then handed the document to Qiu Tu.


    Clutching the document, Qiu Tu seemingly casually but deliberately displayed it in front of Tan Huimin, then saluted Tang Feifei, said goodbye, and took Tan Huimin with him as they left the office.


    In the office, Tang Feifei gazed at their departing figures, her eyes flickering with deep thought. But in the end, she simply shook her head slightly and then picked up the desk phone to start making calls to Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, ready to arrange for her confidants...


    .....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin,


    Ever since Qiu Tu acquired the document that allowed him to decide Zheng Tao''s fate, Tan Huimin''s eyes had never left it.


    Qiu Tu seemed aware of her thoughts and didn''t put the document away, holding it in his hand, teasing her emotions.


    Tan Huimin bit her lip, her gaze tightly following the document, like a cat being incessantly teased by a toy.


    It wasn''t until they were in the elevator that Tan Huimin reluctantly drew her gaze back, looking unfulfilled.


    She thought of Qiu Tu''s manipulative ways, thought of her own terrible speculation. In the end, unable to control herself, she looked down and asked, "Commander, you... you won''t, in front of my husband, with me... with me..."


    Tan Huimin didn''t finish her sentence, but Qiu Tu guessed her meaning.


    He was taken aback for a moment, then with a smile said, "Zheng Tao is lucky."


    "Huh?" Tan Huimin lifted her head in confusion.


    Qiu Tu suddenly pinched her chin, gazed into her eyes, and said with a light laugh, "I''d rather not let him witness how I manipulate you."


    "He... at most, he could only listen to the sounds."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin''s face changed color, and she quickly took a step back. Then she said with a look of despair, "Commander, I beg of you, this really cannot happen." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at her with a mocking smile and suddenly asked, "So... if he doesn''t hear the sounds, if he doesn''t see, I can play with you as I wish?"


    Tan Huimin:...


    Tan Huimin realized she had unwittingly fallen into another of Qiu Tu''s verbal traps. Her chest heaved a few times as she struggled to suppress the mortification in her heart.


    Then she prepared to discuss this matter with Qiu Tu thoroughly.


    However, just then, Qiu Tu changed the topic abruptly.


    He said, "Did you catch what I and Director Tang discussed earlier?"


    The sudden topic shift confused Tan Huimin for a moment, and she reflexively nodded.


    After nodding, Tan Huimin immediately felt a bit of regret.


    Indeed, she had listened to the entire conversation between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei and was aware of all their schemes,


    including planting a confidant, collaborating with The Five Elders, and controlling the Training Department, among other things...


    Honestly, even she felt the content of this conversation was too important, that she shouldn''t have listened.


    So, she kept reminding herself: in one ear and out the other. She must not remember it.


    Otherwise, if this secret were to be leaked, Qiu Tu might pin the blame on her, taking the opportunity to shame her.


    Who would have thought that Qiu Tu would suddenly ask this while she was distracted?


    So, for a while, Tan Huimin felt regret. She intended to find some cover.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    He looked at the slowly opening elevator doors, then said to Tan Huimin in a calm voice, "When you see Director Zheng later, tell him everything you saw and heard."

 Chapter 264 Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Ah?" Tan Huimin''s brain couldn''t keep up with Qiu Tu anymore.


    However, at this moment, Qiu Tu did not give Tan Huimin much time to react. As soon as the elevator doors opened, he stepped out immediately.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departing figure, Tan Huimin was unable to respond for a while.


    It was only after a moment that she suddenly snapped out of it and rushed out after him...


    Upon reaching the ninth floor, Qiu Tu casually selected a few confidants and then instructed Tan Huimin to carry the documents and bring Zheng Tao out with them.


    As the deputy director, Qiu Tu naturally sat in the interrogation room, smoking and pondering his next steps while quietly waiting.


    With his position elevated and his power increased, there were many things he no longer needed to handle personally. Continue reading on My Virtual Library Empire


    Sometimes, all he needed was to say a word, and hundreds of confidants would get things done for him.


    Power... isn''t that what it''s all about? Just like last night, when he ordered 300 Special Service detectives to ambush the anti-government armed forces; just like when he said he didn''t like something, and young women of marrying age from five major families had to get up and come before him for his selection.


    The cigarette quietly burned, carrying away Qiu Tu''s thoughts and giving him a higher understanding of his path [Order-Politics]...


    Soon, while Qiu Tu was there letting his mind wander, there was a knock on the door of the interrogation room from outside.


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses, took a deep drag from his cigarette, and squinted towards the door.


    Ding Xiaoliu walked in, respectfully saluting Qiu Tu, "Minister, Zheng Tao has been brought here."


    Qiu Tu looked over, and then he saw Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian, one on each side, holding Zheng Tao at the door, waiting for Qiu Tu''s command.


    As for Tan Huimin, she followed behind the three, looking at Zheng Tao with a worried face.


    In just two days, Zheng Tao seemed to have lost a lot of weight, and his spirit seemed to have dwindled significantly.


    A once efficient and robust man now looked much older.


    Qiu Tu glanced at him and then said to Ding Xiaoliu and the others, "Let the suspect take a seat."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoliu led Zheng Tao to the seat for the accused, handcuffed him, and then tactfully left the interrogation room.


    Soon, only Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao, and Tan Huimin were left in the room.


    Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao and then said with a smile, "Director Zheng, I really didn''t expect that the next time we met, our identities would have changed so drastically."


    Upon saying this, as if a thought had just occurred to him, Qiu Tu spoke with a look of realization, "Oh, that''s right. If it weren''t for your wife''s pleas, perhaps you wouldn''t have had the chance to see me at all."


    Having spoken, Qiu Tu ignored Zheng Tao whose face had flushed to the color of liver and stood up, patting Tan Huimin''s shoulder affectionately, "Alright now. Madam Zheng, Director Zheng, I have already brought him up."


    "The rest is up to you," he continued.


    "You said he had been wronged, acting against his will. Fine, I''ll give you a chance. Interrogate him, and as long as he clearly conveys his grievances, I promise he''ll be let off the hook."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu left the interrogation room without even a glance at Zheng Tao.


    Accompanied by the ''clank'' of the iron door closing, all sounds in the interrogation room were cut off.


    Outside the door, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and Li Xian stealthily snuck a glance inside the interrogation room.


    Then, Li Xian, who was more familiar with Qiu Tu and had once survived a gunfight with him, approached and quietly said, "Minister... Secretary Tan seems odd. She appears to treat Director Zheng differently."


    "You didn''t see it, but just now, her eyes reddened as soon as she saw Director Zheng. To those unaware, they''d think they were husband and wife."


    Saying this, Li Xian''s eyes darted around, and he then added, "Minister, one-on-one interrogation doesn''t seem to comply with regulations, and there''s a likelihood of leading testimonies."


    "So... if Secretary Tan really extracts something different from Director Zheng''s interrogation, it would actually be invalid."


    Li Xian''s words were very diplomatic, but Qiu Tu understood the meaning perfectly well.


    He smiled and patted Li Xian''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry. She won''t be able to extract anything." sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If we were to interrogate him, there might be a chance for reversal. But with her, even if Director Zheng were to die, he would not change his statement."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Li Xian emitted a puzzled "Ah?"


    Qiu Tu simply smiled without saying anything and then waved his hand at the three and said, "You guys keep a good eye on the two of them."


    "After Director Zheng comes out, take him back to the guard room," he instructed.


    "I need to have a talk with Secretary Bai."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s command, the three immediately saluted, then resolutely responded, "Yes!"


    Qiu Tu extinguished his cigarette butt, tossed it into the trash can, and walked toward the guard room.


    He was so certain that Tan Huimin''s interrogation and efforts would be fruitless because there was a very large information gap between him and Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin had always believed that Zheng Tao''s framing and entrapment of Qiu Tu were due to the instructions of a high-level official in the Investigation Bureau and their deep-seated new and old grudges.


    Therefore, she thought that as long as Zheng Tao exposed that high-level official, it would at least halve the severity of his crimes. At the very least, he wouldn''t be completely doomed by Qiu Tu.


    As for the question whether he would be dealt with by that high-level official¡ª right now, his life was on the line, and if he could live a few more days, then so be it!


    Worst case, after being released, the two could just leave Xinjie City and head to the Disaster Zone or the areas controlled by the anti-government armed forces.


    That was still better than staying in Xinjie City waiting for death.


    What she didn''t know was... Zheng Tao was indeed acting against Qiu Tu under the direction of Secretary Bai, but the true power behind it all was the Evil God Lariro.


    Zheng Tao knew this, Secretary Bai knew, Qiu Tu knew, but Tan Huimin did not.

 Chapter 264 Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    And colluding with the Evil God is a capital offense. Therefore, there''s simply no way to overturn Zheng Tao''s case.


    As long as Qiu Tu does not let Zheng Tao go, no matter how hard Tan Huimin tries, she won''t be able to overturn it, even if she tried ten thousand times.


    Furthermore, it''s highly probable that Zheng Tao''s loyalty to Larilo is related to Tan Huimin, and a huge secret lies hidden between the two of them. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, it''s even less likely that Zheng Tao would reveal anything about the Evil God to Tan Huimin.


    That''s why Qiu Tu would allow Tan Huimin to continue her efforts: only by being repeatedly rejected by Zheng Tao will she truly lose heart and despair.


    Of course, Qiu Tu isn''t just trying to torment this beautiful young woman. He had another reason for letting Tan Huimin interrogate Zheng Tao¡ªto leak information.


    Last night, during the communications between Qiu Tu and Larilo, several important clues were obtained.


    First, Larilo is still able to protect herself and won''t be Devoured by Yan Chen just yet.


    Second, Larilo''s means of contacting the outside has not been severed by Yan Chen.


    Third, and most importantly, it''s highly likely that Larilo''s key followers are either dead or captured.


    That''s why she took the risk to brainwash herself, attempting to send a message to the Great Evil God, Zhao Ji, for help.


    Larilo also revealed to Qiu Tu that she can possess her followers and see and hear what they do. (Chapter 257)


    So... Qiu Tu boldly speculated that currently, she must be possessing either Zheng Tao or Secretary Bai to gather information.


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    If her means of gathering information through possession was a deception to trick Qiu Tu, then aside from ancient coins, her only other method of gathering and relaying information would probably be "Enter Dream."


    And given that Secretary Bai has already defected, the only person Larilo could "Enter Dream" to gather information from is none other than Zheng Tao.


    In the division-of-labor plan between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei,


    Tang Feifei was responsible for infiltrating the Investigation Bureau, while Qiu Tu was to stall Yan Chen and disrupt the Deputy Speaker''s schemes.


    The first step in Qiu Tu''s plan was to contact Liu Xiongyuan and cooperate with him.


    The second step was to communicate with Larilo to understand her trump cards as well as her and Yan Chen''s current situation.


    The third step was then to give Larilo hope, to make her hold on desperately; then to strike Yan Chen, shaking his convictions.


    What could distract Yan Chen more easily than the fact that Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were working with The Five Elders to eat away at his power base?


    What could make Larilo feel more at ease than Qiu Tu striving to fulfill his promise to her?


    So, Qiu Tu planned to pass on all of these true and false pieces of information through Tan Huimin, then through the mouth of Zheng Tao, to the two people engaged in Devouring and being Devoured, affecting their minds and spirits.


    Qiu Tu felt that with a bit of luck, he might be able to cause both of his enemies to suffer losses.


    Moreover, there was an important point: once Yan Chen reemerges, upon learning that it was Zheng Tao who transmitted information for Larilo, given his vengeful nature, would he let Zheng Tao go?


    He''d surely execute Zheng Tao at the first opportunity, wouldn''t he?


    Then, at that time... wouldn''t Qiu Tu just need to keep playing the good guy in front of Tan Huimin, comforting her properly?


    This is what''s called killing someone with a borrowed knife, hitting several birds with one stone.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hummed a tune, ready to meet Secretary Bai and chat with her about the things he had "done" for Larilo to calm her mind.


    Incidentally, he could also probe for information on Yan Chen and Larilo from Secretary Bai to see if there was anything else he could use.


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu took steps towards the Political Department''s Guard Room, about to meet Secretary Bai,


    suddenly, his Communicator started ringing "ring ring ring."


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks, picked it up, and saw that it was from Cao Dabiao.


    Confused, Qiu Tu answered the Communicator, and Cao Dabiao''s excited voice came through.


    "Minister! Thank you! Thank you for your recommendation! I''ve been promoted again!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu was surprised and glanced at the time.


    It had only been a little over an hour since he left Tang Feifei''s office.


    And the promotion list had already been approved?


    Qiu Tu felt that something wasn''t quite right....


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words each, haha! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets~~

 Chapter 265 The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    As he thought this, Qiu Tu inadvertently paused in his steps.


    He didn''t continue walking forward; instead, he went to the side of the corridor bed and then opened his mouth to ask, "Big Biao, give me the details on what happened."


    Qiu Tu said, "I indeed arranged for your promotion, but it shouldn''t have come down so quickly."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao also showed a flash of surprise.


    Immediately after, he realized there might be some aspects of the situation he was unaware of. So he gradually put away his excited expression and tone, then spoke, "Brother Tu, it was half an hour ago that I received the notification from the Organizational Department.


    "The Organizational Department told me that due to your recommendation, they had given me a serious consideration and found me to meet the promotion criteria, so they decided to adjust my position."


    As Cao Dabiao said this, he paused, then continued, "I was a bit excited at the time and forgot to confirm with you. So, I just went over."


    "Once I got there, it was Deputy Director Zhao from the Organizational Department who received me."


    "He talked with me about recent work and praised the achievements of my work over the past year."


    "In the end, he said that after the Organizational Department assessed, they decided to promote me to Section Chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, calculating the timing.


    After a moment, he asked, "Did they tell you which division you''d be working in?"


    Cao Dabiao said, "Action Division, Deputy Division Chief with the rank of Principal Staff, which is to take over your previous position."


    Upon hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression suddenly changed.


    His gaze flickered, and then he asked in a deep voice, "Has anyone else received similar promotion news?"


    Cao Dabiao hesitated for a moment, then said, "Sir, I truly have no idea... because I called you as soon as I came out of the Organizational Department."


    At this point, Cao Dabiao was taken aback, then as if he had thought of something, he quickly added, "Oh! Right! Brother Tu! I think I saw Eagle and the others at the Organizational Department too."


    Upon hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s face immediately became incredibly grim. Discover stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    After taking a few deep breaths, he then said, "Big Biao, do you trust me?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly patted his chest and said, "Brother Tu! Of course, I trust you!"


    "I wouldn''t be where I am today without you, and besides, we''ve been through life and death together. If I don''t trust you, then who can I trust!"


    "In this lifetime, I''m prepared to sell my life to you!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s resolute words, Qiu Tu did not take them at face value.


    He knew his confidants well; if Chen Feng were to say such words, it would mean they were genuine.


    But when Cao Dabiao said them, a discount of sixty to seventy percent had to be applied.


    However, since Cao Dabiao had said it, Qiu Tu went ahead and spoke frankly.


    He said, "Then Big Biao, you go back now, return the ID and documents to the Organizational Department."


    "Just say that you feel unable to fulfill the duties of the position and hope that they can reassign you or demote you back to your previous position as Deputy Section Head."


    "Huh?" Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was clearly confused.


    In the face of power and gain, few people can maintain their original intention.


    Stumbling over his words, Cao Dabiao said, "Brother Tu... You must be joking, right?" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu, expressionless on the other end of the phone, said, "Big Biao, you know me. I never joke."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s chilling words, Cao Dabiao was startled, and quickly said, "Alright, Brother Tu! I will go to the Organizational Department and return the ID right away!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty -12]


    Looking at the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu''s expression showed no change.


    His subordinates are human, not machines.


    This is reality, not a game.


    Never mind suppressing a subordinate''s job like he just did; even after he was promoted from Xinjie City and the relationship with his subordinates cooled, the loyalty would gradually decrease.


    This is all just a part of human nature.


    Besides, even after losing 12 points of loyalty, Cao Dabiao''s loyalty was still a high 84 points, making him one of the most loyal amongst Qiu Tu''s subordinates.


    So he would still look up to Qiu Tu unquestioningly and follow his orders.


    The sudden drop in loyalty simply reflected the frustration in the subordinate''s heart after his superior had thwarted his progression.


    If the subordinate was appeased well or later compensated for in other ways, his loyalty could likewise quickly bounce back.


    However, if neglected or if the superior repeatedly blocked the subordinate''s promotions, even the most loyal subordinates would eventually become estranged and disloyal.


    So, with that in mind, after Cao Dabiao displayed his loyalty, Qiu Tu changed his tone and began to appease Cao Dabiao.


    He said, "Big Biao,


    "I know you must feel some dissatisfaction or unwillingness towards my decision in your heart."


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly said, "Brother Tu, you''ve misunderstood me! I don''t have any..."


    Qiu Tu took his words for mere nonsense, and then continued speaking calmly, "Do you remember what I told you on the day we first met?"


    Cao Dabiao had obviously forgotten.


    He "um..." twice, unsure of how to respond.


    But Qiu Tu slowly said, "I asked you if you had the backing of a large and powerful family, if there was a high-level supporter from the Sanctuary for you, or a Bureau Chief to back you up."


    Cao Dabiao was taken back to the night several months ago by Qiu Tu''s words.


    Back then, following orders from above, he led his team to be under Qiu Tu''s command. But on the first day he was assigned, Qiu Tu stripped him of his power, sent him away, and sidelined him completely.


    He was extremely annoyed at the time, and went to eat hot pot with Ding Xiaoliu and Ding Xiaoqi, the two brothers.


    But in the middle of the meal, Qiu Tu called him back, gave him a sum of money, and asked those questions.


    Just... even though he remembered the scene, Cao Dabiao still didn''t quite understand why Qiu Tu brought it up.

 Chapter 265 The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu also slowly said, "Now, I will ask these questions once again."


    "Do you have the backing of a large family or powerful force? Are you protected by the higher-ups in the Sanctuary, and do you have the support of Bureau Chiefs below?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao quickly let out a "heh heh" and chuckled twice, saying, "Brother Tu, you know what kind of person I am."


    "I don''t have any of those backgrounds, protections, or supports."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu retorted, "Indeed. You have nothing, so on what basis did you obtain the position of Deputy Chief of the Action Division?"


    "So many Principal Staff members want to be promoted to this position and have not succeeded. Have you not considered if there could be a problem with your rapid promotion?"


    "And with no one above you, aren''t you afraid that others will be envious, jealous, and then start targeting you, reporting you?"


    "If someone were indeed targeting you, reporting you, I could protect you once, twice, even thrice. But can I protect you every time?"


    By the end, Qiu Tu let out a long sigh and then earnestly said, "So, Big Biao, don''t be fooled. This is to ''promote and kill'' you!"


    "Someone wants to target Director Tang and me by ''promoting and killing'' you."


    "If you refuse this position, there''s no issue, but if you really accept it, you''ll be a live target waiting for them to come after."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the face of Cao Dabiao on the other end of the phone instantly turned pale.


    He was not a fool; he was just a bit too greedy and easily blinded by benefits.


    Thus, as Qiu Tu broke down and spelled out everything for him, everything became clear all at once.


    He started sweating profusely.


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +10]


    Seeing the notification that popped up, Qiu Tu knew that Cao Dabiao had listened and understood the painstaking care he had for him. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was only a pity that such a big benefit would be difficult for anyone to give up, so there was still a bit of reluctance in his heart.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu then slowly said, "Big Biao, actually... I already talked about you with Director Tang this morning."


    "I was hoping to add more responsibilities for you."


    "But also, we need to consider your future development."


    "So, this time I was thinking of first promoting your rank from Deputy Staff to Principal Staff, and to keep a low profile, you could transition through a less conspicuous department in the Administrative Office."


    "A promotion from Deputy Head of a powerful department to Principal Staff of the Lengshui Yamen would attract much less criticism."


    "After a period of transition, we will then transfer you back to the Political Department, and by then, it will not attract unnecessary attention."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s genuine concern in his arrangements, Cao Dabiao felt deeply touched.


    Comparing the two career paths, even a fool could see the difference.


    The earnest care from Qiu Tu and the career path he meticulously designed for him, compared to the skip-level promotion offered by the Organizational Department, was incomparably more astute.


    It would not only similarly empower him but also minimize jealousy and impact, avoiding becoming a target for being the leading bird.


    With these thoughts, Cao Dabiao felt choked up for a moment.


    This time, he did not resort to the usual polished rhetoric. Hanging his head in regret on the other end of the phone, he said, "Brother Tu, I''m sorry...."


    "Just now in my heart...."


    Qiu Tu didn''t let Cao Dabiao finish his sentence but directly interrupted him, "Big Biao, there''s no need for so many explanations between us."


    "Everyone wants a promotion, a raise."


    "Put yourself in their shoes. If someone prevented me from moving up to such a good position, I probably would have complaints too."


    With that, Qiu Tu paused and then firmly declared, "And this is exactly what those schemers want to achieve!"


    Qiu Tu said, "If I agree to your promotion, they will make you a target. By going after you, they aim to get to me."


    "And if I don''t agree to your promotion, they can easily sow discord between you and me."


    "Their hearts are so dark."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao finally completely understood the conspiracy of the Organizational Department.


    With a resolute face, he said, "Brother Tu! Don''t worry, I will go to the organization and make a fuss now. Say I don''t want to be Deputy Division Chief, and let them find another candidate!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +4, current Loyalty 98]


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words and seeing his restored Loyalty, Qiu Tu felt reassured. He hummed in response, then cautioned, "In such a sensitive time, be very careful...."


    Cao Dabiao hummed in acknowledgment.


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu quietly pondered for a few seconds, then took out his communicator and made calls to key confidants like Eagle, Ah-Kun, and Chen Feng.


    As expected, they had all received notices from the Organizational Department, saying they were recommended by Qiu Tu for position promotions.


    However, unlike Cao Dabiao, they were obviously more cautious.


    So, Eagle and Ah-Kun went but politely declined the promotion, opting to consider it for now, whereas Chen Feng outright rejected the offer over the phone due to health concerns.


    Afterwards, the three prepared to call Qiu Tu to inquire about the situation, only to find the line busy the whole time.


    Now, with advice from Qiu Tu, they immediately understood that it was the enemy''s plot.


    Qiu Tu told them to alert their subordinates, and then he hung up the phone.


    After ending the call, Qiu Tu sent a message to Tang Feifei, explaining the current situation.


    Tang Feifei was likely in a meeting with Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, so she simply replied with a "Hmm." Read latest stories on My Virtual Library Empire

 Chapter 265 The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    But Qiu Tu, who was well-acquainted with Tang Feifei''s personality and abilities, felt somewhat reassured when he saw that character.


    He reflected on the entire situation, his expression becoming a bit grave.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, this was likely a probing move by either Yu Zhengyi or Shi Youxin.


    They knew that after Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had seized control of the Investigation Bureau, they would certainly start meddling in personnel arrangements, planting confidants in various departments.


    Therefore, they simply launched a preemptive strike, promoting some of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s confidants and, moreover, to some key positions.


    With just a simple action, they were able to achieve a triple effect.


    First, they could legitimately delay Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s personnel arrangements¡ªhaving just promoted a batch, the subsequent ones could wait.


    Second, if Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu accepted these appointments, it would show the Investigation Bureau how arrogant and domineering they both were, setting up mines for their future reckoning.


    Third, if Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu did not recognize these appointments, it could create a wedge between Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu and their own confidants.


    People like Qiu Tu, who deeply understood human nature and could dispel subordinates'' dissatisfaction and grievances with just a few words, were few and far between.


    At least Tang Feifei wasn''t such a person... Given her personality, she was even too lazy to explain.


    ''Indeed... One should never underestimate anyone who holds a high position.''


    It was merely a simple act of lifting to strike, yet it nearly impacted Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s entire plan.


    Qiu Tu had thought that after Yan Chen''s seclusion and Tang Feifei''s power grab, the Investigation Bureau would completely become his and Tang Feifei''s backyard.


    Now it seemed that they still had to be extremely careful at every step.


    None of those old foxes were simple...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel fortunate about the United Front''s attack last night. Even the Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi and the Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin were so adept at calculating.


    If last night''s attack by the United Front hadn''t happened, with the assertiveness of the Deputy Director of Operations Lai Shun, the Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, and the Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua, who knows what criticism might have come his way for moving so many people around to target him.


    ''Now it seems... the little move by Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin was actually good. At least it raised our alertness. Now we know this group of high-level officials are not sheep, but real jackals!''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu pressed down the restlessness that had been in his heart for the last couple of days due to taking control of the Investigation Bureau.


    Then he took a deep breath and stepped towards the Guard Room.


    Upon arriving at the Guard Room, led by the investigator Wang Dawei, who was eager to join him, Qiu Tu reached Secretary Bai''s quarters.


    Watching Wang Dawei unlock the door of the Guard Room, Qiu Tu patted Wang Dawei on the shoulder and spoke with great significance, "Prepare yourself in the next couple of days, the burden on your shoulders might become heavier."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s implication, Wang Dawei''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    He snapped to attention with a sharp "snap!" and gave Qiu Tu a formal salute, saying earnestly, "Yes, sir!"


    [Wang Dawei''s loyalty +8, current loyalty 57]


    As unimpressive as this loyalty score might seem, remember that previously the two had no command relationship, and Qiu Tu had no influence over him.


    So an initial loyalty of 49 indeed proved his genuine desire to align with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded at him, then pushed open the door of the Guard Room and walked in.


    Entering Secretary Bai''s solitary Guard Room, what caught Qiu Tu''s eyes was the sight of Secretary Bai writing at the desk.


    Moved by curiosity, Qiu Tu walked over to Secretary Bai''s side, bending down to see what Secretary Bai was writing. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But upon a closer look, a myriad of black lines crossed Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    Old Bai was actually writing a diary...


    Read exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    --------


    Chapter of 10,000 words, ha! Vote for the monthly ticket!

 Chapter 266 Seeing Fang Tangtang Again (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket~)

    However, Old Bai''s diary was clearly different from ordinary diaries.


    Other people''s diaries are all about which school''s girls have white thighs, or which school''s girl wore shorter shorts today;


    Or maybe today they had nothing to do, so they visited brothels to listen to music;


    Or... the Witch was so smooth.


    But Old Bai''s writings were exceptionally profound...


    "September 16th, light rain."


    "When the sun extinguishes and falls into darkness, on the other side of the world, it is also burning and climbing the clear skies. Therefore, the sun is always rising, always dawn."


    "So... when one day, I silently walk into darkness, will there be someone on the other side of the world emerging from darkness into light...."


    "Who is that person? Is he me? Is he really me?"


    Bowing his head, Qiu Tu finished reading Old Bai''s diary, which was enveloped in mist and full of philosophy. He looked at Secretary Bai with a face full of confusion and then said, "Old Bai, if you''re not feeling well, just tell me. I''d stake my position as vice-minister to get you out."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai smiled and closed the diary, then said with absolute clarity, "You''re not the kind of person who would sacrifice your future for someone else."


    "Plus, I''m not uncomfortable. I am very well."


    Qiu Tu pointed out the window to the clear sky and said, "Are you sure? Your diary entry says ''light rain''."


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai chuckled and then shook his head, "How do you know it''s not drizzling now?"


    "Are you sure the world you see with your eyes is real enough?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Secretary Bai had always spoken in circles, with some innuendo and intelligence that had to be carefully savored to understand his meaning.


    And now, after being captured by Qiu Tu, he had become even more convoluted.


    Even, Qiu Tu felt that since he captured him, Secretary Bai seemed to develop a detached aura.


    It was as if he had completed all his missions, wishes, and had no desires or pursuits for anything, and viewed power, wealth, and life and death with utter indifference.


    It was precisely this change that made Qiu Tu feel a bit uneasy.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tentatively said, "Old Bai. Are you aware of some secret? Are you making some preparations in advance?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned around, then looked at Qiu Tu and shook his head, "Qiu Tu, I''ve already told you all that I should tell, and did everything I should do."


    "So, there really is nothing more I can tell you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze deepened as he studied Secretary Bai, attempting to detect some hint in his expression.


    But Secretary Bai''s expression was utterly calm, revealing no change at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu thought for a moment, then decided to proceed with a planned probe.


    So, he said, "Old Bai, do you know that Larilo can possess the followers she chooses and then share their vision and hearing with her followers?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai nodded slightly, then said, "I know."


    He explained gently, "In fact, not just her, most Evil Gods have this capability."


    "That''s why Sanctuary labels some special Fourth-Fifth Order Cataclysmic Creatures as ''Evil Gods'', mainly because of their use of the power of faith."


    "Possession of a follower is just one of the common abilities of an Evil God."


    "Some Great Evil Gods of the Fifth Order even have the ability to perceive the thoughts and intentions of their followers."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu nodded in realization. It seems Larilo didn''t deceive him with this information.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu continued, "Then do you know that Larilo has been possessing you while you were a spy, and even peeked at your diary?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai smiled, then he nodded and said, "That''s a possibility."


    "It''s just.... there''s no intelligence in my diary, so even if she looked, she wouldn''t get any clues."


    Although he said this, Secretary Bai did not express any intention to hand over his diary for Qiu Tu to examine.


    Qiu Tu, although still somewhat puzzled, was facing Secretary Bai after all, so he didn''t insist on checking.


    After a brief ponder, he continued to probe, "Last night, I contacted Larilo."


    "Although she is being Devoured by the Bureau Chief, she can still send messages to the outside world."


    Secretary Bai shook his head, "It''s useless. She can only contact two types of people."


    "One is the follower holding a ''Mimetic Coin'', a communication-type Cataclysmic Treasure."


    "The second is the important follower who has been marked with the ''Believer''s Mark'' by her."


    "For the former, she doesn''t have many ''Mimetic Coins''. Apart from the one you have, I''ve already retrieved the rest."


    "As for the latter, I''ve spent more than half a year clarifying the list and handed it over to the Bureau Chief."


    "Other than Zheng Tao and myself¡ªboth with Sanctuary identities¡ªbefore the Bureau Chief enacted the Devouring plan, he had already sent people to eliminate all those important followers."


    "Afterward, I deliberately made Zheng Tao oppose you and escalated the situation, letting him send his wife to your side to catch your attention."


    "Once the Bureau Chief''s plan was exposed, with your personality, you would definitely restrict Zheng Tao." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So... now, apart from you, Larilo can''t contact anyone outside."


    Having said this, Secretary Bai couldn''t help but ask back, "And would you work for Larilo?"


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze became a bit complex.


    Indeed, you should never underestimate anyone.


    The seemingly harmless Secretary Bai, was actually a master strategist! Your next journey awaits at My Virtual Library Empire

 Chapter 266 Seeing Fang Tangtang Again (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket~)_2

    While thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but say deliberately with a smirk, "Haha, well, that depends on Larilo."


    "If she offers a high enough price, there''s nothing to say I couldn''t do it."


    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu casually mentioned, "Plus, she gave me ten tasks yesterday, hoping I''d help."


    "Some are very difficult, and some are quite simple."


    "I actually wanted to do some small tasks within my power for her, but... she''s only leading me on with empty promises, not giving any practical benefits, making it really hard for me to be motivated."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai seemed unconcerned. Read latest chapters on My Virtual Library Empire


    He said gently, "The Bureau Chief is not much of a gambler. Unless he''s more than ninety percent sure, he won''t make a move."


    Qiu Tu asked indifferently, "So, Old Bai, do you think Zhao Ji''s involvement is within his expectations?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Secretary Bai''s expression finally shifted subtly.


    However, that change was fleeting and quickly concealed.


    But Qiu Tu still clearly caught the change in Old Bai''s expression.


    ''It seems that "Zhao Ji" does hold an unusual significance for these heavyweights from the Sanctuary....''


    ''Could it be that "Zhao Ji" is well-known in the Sanctuary?''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think about the Sanctuary relocating Dongye State''s capital to Eastern City.


    Once Eastern City became the capital of Dongye State, experts like Huang Shangzong would all be stationed in Eastern City.


    Could it be... this move was also to guard against Zhao Ji?


    Is Zhao Ji really that powerful?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment and chose to play a strategic retreat.


    He looked at Secretary Bai, then said with a smile, "Alright, Old Bai, I can see you''re not really in the mood for chatting. I''ll take my leave then."


    "There''s still a pile of work back at the department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai eventually did not manage to detain him.


    He looked at Qiu Tu seriously and said, "Qiu Tu... Zhao Ji is far more terrifying than you can imagine."


    "She could be considered one of the most powerful Evil Gods the Sanctuary has discovered."


    "Working with Larilo, even if you back out, it would be hard for Larilo to target you."


    "But if you get involved with ''Zhao Ji'' and catch her attention..."


    At this point, Secretary Bai paused, then emphasized, "Your soul might be toyed with for eternity, suffering in flames."


    Old Bai''s words were highly credible.


    So, upon hearing this, Qiu Tu showed a trace of deep thought in his eyes.


    ''It seems this "Zhao Ji" is indeed not to be underestimated....''


    ''So is Larilo asking me to send a message to Zhao Ji purely for help, or does she also intend to trick me?''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu etched Old Bai''s information in his mind, then stood up ready to leave the Guard Room.


    And just as his hand touched the doorknob, Qiu Tu stopped again.


    With his back to Secretary Bai, and without turning his head, he said, "Old Bai, while I can''t release you, I do have a way to arrange for night shifts in the Guard Room."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai looked at him with a smile and whispered, "Thanks. But... never mind."


    "I''m quite content as I am."


    After saying that, he reflected, "Humans... always chase after certain things in life. But after all the pursuit, they find it''s all for naught."


    "It''s only when you let go of material possessions and truly find your inner self that you attain true peace...."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was finding Old Bai increasingly enigmatic.


    The depth and Zen-like meanings in his words left him befuddled and unable to unravel.


    So, Qiu Tu simply stopped trying to interpret the underlying message in Old Bai''s words and pushed the door to the Guard Room open to leave.


    Just then, Old Bai suddenly spoke again, "Qiu Tu... each high-level member of the Sanctuary has their own political stance and philosophical system."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s stride paused.


    He turned back to look at Old Bai.


    He saw Old Bai sitting there, head bowed, as if he had never spoken.


    Whether it was an illusion or not, for a fleeting moment, Qiu Tu felt as if there was a light rain falling around Old Bai.


    The rain gently wetted Old Bai''s clothes and hair....


    Qiu Tu:....


    Leaving the Guard Room, Qiu Tu remained immersed in the sudden daydream that had flashed through his mind.


    ```


    ''Political advocacy... Philosophical systems...''


    Thinking of Elder Wang whom he had met before, and his profound words, Qiu Tu vaguely felt as if he had grasped something....


    ''Philosophy... Spirit... Cataclysm Path... and the Boundless Heart Sea...''


    ''Is there any connection between these elements?''


    At this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall Old Bai''s various peculiar actions.


    In the back of his mind, Qiu Tu always felt that Old Bai seemed to be brewing something very big.


    Something that seemed not much smaller than Yan Chen''s advancement....


    .....


    Time flew by, and soon, a day had passed.


    That day, several major events took place at the Investigation Bureau.


    First, Deputy Staff Chief Cao Dabiao caused a commotion at the Organizational Department, claiming that his promotion was a setup for failure, as he simply wasn''t capable of fulfilling the duties of the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division.


    Following this incident, Deputy Director Tang Feifei personally visited the Organizational Department to understand the personnel arrangements.


    On Tang Feifei''s suggestion, Cao Dabiao was transferred to the Publicity Section of the Administrative Office to serve as the Section Chief.


    If things had stopped there, no one would have suspected anything unusual.


    But then, Tang Feifei produced a list of over two hundred individuals up for promotion, and then met with the Organizational Department to discuss the promotion of this group of people.


    Out of the 200 people on the promotion list, besides the 70 who were confidants of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu, among the remaining 150, 70 seemed to have no faction affiliation or were just ordinary locals, and 60 were confidants of Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin.


    This move directly swayed Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, who originally wanted to reject Tang Feifei''s involvement in personnel matters.


    So, after some bargaining, they quickly reached a consensus.


    Thus... this promotion list, justified as "annual job adjustments," was freshly released.


    The initial goal of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to install their confidants was officially achieved.


    This promotion list once again established a consensus within the Investigation Bureau: Following Qiu Tu leads to a bright future.... sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not to mention others, the double promotions within a month for Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Song Qing, and others were enough to make the majority of ordinary agents, Section Chiefs, and Deputy Staff Chiefs green with envy....


    For a time, the number of people visiting Qiu Tu''s office had greatly increased....


    Besides the major internal changes in the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City also underwent some other changes.


    ¡ªThe giant tree phantom that had always stood tall over the sky of Xinjie City suddenly shook violently in the afternoon, as if some accident had occurred.


    However, right after that, the giant tree stabilized. What''s more... it even began to sprout new branches and buds.


    This change was keenly captured by various forces that had been paying attention to the giant tree phantom.


    They knew that something must have happened to Yan Chen and Larilo; otherwise, such a significant change wouldn''t have come so suddenly after the second day of Devouring.


    However, no one knew for sure whether this change benefitted Yan Chen or Larilo....


    Except for... Qiu Tu.


    ....


    In the evening, after work,


    Qiu Tu had the driver assigned by the bureau, in a new car, take him back to Longshan Road.


    Now that Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei controlled the Investigation Bureau, all the regular perks were approved instantly without delay.


    Therefore, on the same day, cars and drivers suitable for the Deputy Division Chief level were all allocated. And a villa had also been prepared and was ready for occupancy at any time.


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t go there to live: he had just taken Fang Tangtang''s virginity the previous night, and it was only right to spend the evening with her today in consideration of both emotion and reason.


    This was not only an attitude towards Fang Tangtang but also towards The Five Elders.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu was very busy that night: he needed to contact Rilo, to glean intelligence from her, and to probe further. So it didn''t matter where he lived.


    After the driver parked the car at the villa''s gate included in Fang Tangtang''s dowry, Qiu Tu stepped into the villa and saw Fang Tangtang with an apron around her waist, humming a song, and happily cooking in the kitchen.


    Her impressive figure gave the apron a lovely curve, accentuated by her captivating juvenile charm in her eyes and eyebrows.


    The term ''baby-faced with large breasts'' spontaneously came to Qiu Tu''s mind....


    Fang Tangtang perhaps didn''t expect Qiu Tu to come back so early and be a witness to her somewhat embarrassing side. Thus, her song was abruptly stopped halfway.


    In that instant, her face turned crimson with embarrassment, and she timidly bowed her head, not daring to make any moves.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quietly observed her for two seconds before inquiring, "Did something happy happen today?"


    Fang Tangtang clutched her apron and said in a low voice, "No... nothing..."


    She clearly wasn''t good at lying. Qiu Tu didn''t even need to use any psychological tactics to notice her awkwardness.


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words. Seeking Monthly Tickets! Next update around 24:00~


    ```

 Chapter 267 Larilos Defense Breaks (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    However, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang''s marriage was a political union to begin with; there wasn''t much of an emotional foundation.


    The only bottom line for Qiu Tu in this relationship was that Fang Tangtang not betray him; as for the rest, he didn''t care.


    So Qiu Tu simply left her with a sentence, "You''re not good at lying," then he lifted his leg to go upstairs, preparing to start contacting Larilo.


    However, he might have underestimated his position in Fang Tangtang''s heart. Find adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s assessment, Fang Tangtang''s face went pale in an instant.


    Her eyes reddening slightly, she lifted her head to look at the back of Qiu Tu as he ascended the stairs, her mouth opening as if she wanted to explain something, but maybe the disparity between their statuses was too vast, and his towering authority placed much pressure on her.


    So she opened her mouth several times, but in the end, no sound came out.


    In the end, she could only clench her apron tightly and then slowly lower her head, daring not to say anything¡­


    Like that, she stood silently for two minutes.


    Suddenly, the smell of something burning wafted from the pot.


    Startled by the scent, Fang Tangtang let out a soft cry, then turned to look at the frying pan.


    By now, the food in the frying pan had burnt at the bottom.


    With panic, Fang Tangtang moved the frying pan away from the stove and then opened the lid with a distressed face.


    The meal that used to be full of color, aroma, and flavor was now nothing but a pot of burnt smell.


    Fang Tangtang took out a pair of chopsticks and carefully picked the still intact food into a Xiaowan, then tasted it herself to check if it was properly cooked, and after confirming there were no issues, she frowned and sneakily ate it all up.


    After devouring the small bowl of half-charred dish, Fang Tangtang dumped the rest of the burnt mess, then she walked over to the wall of the kitchen and stared at a few pieces of paper on it.


    Written on the papers were names of dishes, cooking methods, and tastes. They were all of Qiu Tu''s favorites from the outside restaurants and taverns, ones he frequently ordered or praised.


    Although The Five Elders had already left the core of Xinjie City''s power, they had deep roots from many years in the city, with tendrils reaching into every corner of Xinjie City.


    Finding out the preferences of someone like Qiu Tu, who was born and bred in Xinjie City, was nothing but a minor task for them.


    Therefore, this afternoon, all of Qiu Tu''s likes, habits, and favored dishes were delivered to Fang Tangtang, who was asked to memorize and recite them.


    The Five Elders even hired a specialized kitchen maid to force Fang Tangtang to learn.


    It could be said that from the moment last night when Qiu Tu selected Fang Tangtang, her life was to revolve entirely around him. Her every liking, every habit must be aligned with that of Qiu Tu¡­


    Luckily, Fang Tangtang seemed not to be repulsed by this.


    Or perhaps... she didn''t even realize how malformed her role was in this relationship with Qiu Tu.


    She still naively thought Qiu Tu was her husband, and that everything she did was to make her husband happy and to improve their little home¡­


    After checking the recipes on the wall, Fang Tangtang had an idea in mind. She stood up and went over to a box of fresh vegetables to choose from, then started chopping, washing the pan, heating the oil, and began seriously making food again...


    With her plump, oval-shaped face, big eyes, and pert nose¡ªaccompanied by the apron and her serious expression¡ªshe was the very image of an adorable little kitchen maid...


    He went up to the second floor of the villa.


    Qiu Tu entered his study. Then he closed the door, scanned every corner of the room to make sure there were no obvious listening or surveillance devices or Cataclysmic treasures.


    He took out a small square box.


    This was a shielding device commonly used by the Political Department, capable of blocking and disrupting various monitoring and listening electronic signals, something he had taken from the department today.


    Although he believed that due to his current honeymoon phase with The Five Elders, they would unlikely do something that could harm their cooperation.


    But in times of turmoil, one can harbor malicious intentions, yet one must never lack a defensive caution.


    So, Qiu Tu was better safe than sorry.


    Thinking this, after taking all the necessary precautions, Qiu Tu took out that ancient coin from his pocket and, according to the method of contacting Larilo, rubbed his thumb three times on the front of the coin and four times on the back, then threw it onto the desk.


    This time, perhaps there was some issue, for as soon as the coin hit the table, it began spinning non-stop.


    Metallic mist drifted upwards, but the coin continued to maintain a state of rapid spinning.


    Qiu Tu looked at the coin, his brow slightly furrowed.


    He then returned his gaze to the window, looking at the sprawling green-blue giant tree that spanned the skies above Xinjie City, resembling a mountain range, composed of green light points.


    Following the afternoon''s incident, the tree seemed to have grown larger. Its branches and leaves flourished, and more sprouts and branches began to emerge from the top.


    Although it was not certain what this signified, based on this phenomenon, Qiu Tu speculated that it was very likely Yan Chen had absorbed and digested a portion of Larilo''s soul, thereby advancing his strength a step closer to the Fourth Order.


    Now, coupled with Larilo''s long failure to connect "communications", Qiu Tu couldn''t help but develop an ominous premonition: Could it be... Larilo was in trouble?


    Today, through Secretary Bai and Zheng Tao, he delivered messages that provoked Yan Chen, and then Yan Chen directly devoured Larilo?


    "Swish swish swish... swish swish... swish..."


    The coin continued spinning on the table against the laws of physics for five or six minutes, eventually slowing down and finally coming to a complete stop on the desk.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu had a bit of an ominous feeling, yet he wasn''t ready to give up hope. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The first time he contacted Larilo, it took several tries as well.


    ```

 Chapter 267 Larilo Breaks Defense (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_2

    Larilo isn''t responding to communications now, but that doesn''t necessarily mean something has happened.


    Perhaps if I wait another half an hour, there will be a different result.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu returned to the mahogany desk, then reached for the coin and put it back in his pocket. Afterward, he picked up some of the books laid out on the desk and began to read.


    In times of chaos, books are considered one of the most valuable things. Most people''s homes no longer have any.


    Yet, in this villa study prepared by The Five Elders, books were abundant.


    Moreover, these books were both old and new. Some dated back to before the Era of Disaster while others still had the fresh smell of ink.


    Qiu Tu casually picked up two new books and flipped through them.


    The written language in this world was in simplified characters, which Qiu Tu read without any difficulty.


    The book he was reading was a philosophical work called "Existence," written by someone named Rao Shou.


    Qiu Tu had never heard this name before, nor did he know who it was.


    However, the book was very interesting.


    It explored the meaning of "existence" according to philosophical thinking¡ªwhat exactly is existence.


    The relationship between life and death, and existence. Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    The concepts of "id," "ego," "super-ego," "consciousness," "physical body," and so on.


    The more Qiu Tu read, the more he found it interesting.


    The philosophy book seemed to be discussing philosophical issues, but it actually seemed to be delving into the essence of the Era of Disaster.


    As he read, Qiu Tu suddenly recalled the reminder from Secretary Bai that morning: Do all the high-ups in the Sanctuary have their political views and philosophical systems?


    Political views, Qiu Tu understood. After all, those who could become high-ups in the Sanctuary indeed had their own set of methods to change the world, to alter the course of human progress.


    It was also their own methods that led to the various disagreements over the Sanctuary''s direction of governance and development.


    The other middle and high-level members were gathered around them, forming factions, because they agreed with their methods and political views.


    But the philosophical systems, Qiu Tu had not truly understood before.


    Now, through this philosophical book, Qiu Tu suddenly had a bold idea.


    The biggest difference between the Era of Disaster and the previous era of normal science is¡ªmental power and the Spirit World (the Boundless Heart Sea).


    Even the "Cataclysm Path" requires one to acknowledge their own path, to proceed and carry out along their path to gradually level up.


    This is, in fact, a form of spiritual cohesion.


    So... may philosophical systems actually be a way to refine the spirit, to establish one''s own Spirit World?


    The more he pondered, the more Qiu Tu felt that his speculation might be interesting.


    But once you find your own political views, establish your philosophical system, and build your own Spirit World, what will happen then?


    Qiu Tu felt as if all this was shrouded in layers of fog.


    And while reading, Qiu Tu didn''t forget to occasionally toss the coin.


    Every half hour, Qiu Tu would rub the coin a few times, then toss it onto the desk, listening to its spinning sound on the desk while continuing to read.


    Time passed without his knowing how long.


    Just as Qiu Tu was about to finish the philosophical book, the coin on the desk finally reacted.


    The coin spinning rapidly suddenly exploded into a mist, which then condensed into the form of Larilo in midair.


    Today''s Larilo was wearing a black high-slit gown, with her perfect figure outlined by the tight-fitting dress.


    Her snow-white, slender legs peeked out from the edge of the slit dress, with a hint of seduction.


    She wasn''t wearing shoes or socks, and her small feet appeared smooth and flawless, like works of art.


    Even though Qiu Tu''s many experiences never featured feet, he couldn''t deny that these were feet that could drive any foot enthusiast crazy.


    However, compared to her exquisite attire and appearance, Larilo''s mental state was obviously much worse.


    This could be seen by her effort to look energetic, but her overall demeanor was still listless.


    "My Pontiff~~ to think you contacted me after just a day. I didn''t expect it," she said.


    "I hope I can hear some good news from you."


    Qiu Tu observed Larilo''s condition carefully and then replied with a smile, "Your Highness, I indeed have some good news to report to you."


    "I have developed more than ten thousand followers for you!"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo was taken aback. Her lethargic spirit even picked up slightly. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She went "Oh?" and looked at Qiu Tu with her crimson eyes, asking, "Really? How did you develop those ten thousand followers?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu solemnly explained,


    "Your Highness. Today, I took the opportunity when Yan Chen was away to fiercely advance in the Investigation Bureau and inserted a large number of confidants."


    "Now, throughout the Investigation Bureau, every department has my people. My power and reach can be said to have spread throughout the entire Bureau."


    "So, as long as you and Her Highness Zhao Ji finish off Yan Chen, his influence in the Bureau will collapse, completely unable to confront me."


    "Thus, the whole Bureau will be firmly under my control."


    "Then, even if the Sanctuary appoints a new Bureau Chief, I can quietly neutralize him," Qiu Tu added, his face full of self-congratulation. "Your Highness, by then... I, no, you will be the uncrowned ruler of Xinjie City."


    "Thousands of investigators in the Bureau will follow your commands, abide by your will."

 Chapter 267 Larilos Defense Breaks (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "Would you say that these are followers I''ve recruited for you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo¡­.


    Larilo felt her temples throbbing painfully, her complexion worsening.


    What kind of followers are these?


    If such peripheral forces that didn''t even know who they were could be considered her followers, then she would have long ago leapt into the ranks of the top ten Great Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Moreover... even if these agents could truly become her followers, that would only be possible if she managed to kill Yan Chen and break free!


    At the moment, she and Yan Chen were at a stalemate at best; she was doing well to just maintain her own existence, let alone kill Yan Chen without external help.


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    Therefore, the pie Qiu Tu was drawing was huge and tempting. But Larilo couldn''t taste it¡­.


    Thinking this, Larilo took a deep breath, trying her best to hide her emotions, then feigned joy and praised, "Mm, very good. You''ve done quite well! You truly deserve to be the pontiff I chose."


    After that, Larilo probed further, asking, "Did you... have any other gains today?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly nodded, "Yes, yes, yes."


    Qiu Tu said, trying to please her, "I also went to complete the 10 tasks you assigned to me today."


    At this, Larilo''s eyes lit up, and she asked, "How did it go? How many did you complete?"


    Qiu Tu held up a finger, "One."


    Larilo¡­.


    Larilo''s heart cooled a bit, but she still kept the disappointment off her face, and asked with hopeful expectations, "Which one?"


    Qiu Tu spoke seriously, "I found out the exact time Moonlight Lake will take shape."


    "It''s tomorrow night."


    "That is to say, it''s been delayed by one day from the last time I informed you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo became irritated, almost losing her composure¡­.


    Never mind whether the news was true or false.


    The main point was that this news was of no use to Larilo at the moment!


    Now she was trapped within Yan Chen''s Domain, unable to leave.


    If Moonlight Lake hadn''t taken shape, there might have been a chance for her. Once it formed, other than causing frustration, it was meaningless!


    With that thought, Larilo forced a smile revealing a grim, charming smile, then praised him strenuously, "Good, very good. I didn''t expect you, Qiu Tu, to even uncover such information."


    "It seems I haven''t misjudged you."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu smiled innocently, then suddenly counter-questioned, "Your Highness, since time is so pressing, why don''t you and Her Highness Zhao Ji make a move early and kill Yan Chen to break free, then contest for Moonlight Lake?"


    At that moment, Larilo''s expression abruptly stiffened.


    Larilo had become an Evil God because she was among the smartest of the Cataclysmic Creatures; over decades of learning and evolution, she had gained a comprehensive understanding of conspiracies and deception.


    These last few days, she was simply unable to think calmly due to being trapped and schemed against by Yan Chen''s planning and Domain.


    Moreover, the least costly card in her hand was Qiu Tu. She had pinned her hopes on Qiu Tu, and that was why she had continued to act all this time.


    But now, Qiu Tu''s continuous teasing, stirring her emotions only to dash them, finally made her sense something was amiss.


    Her crimson eyes looked down upon Qiu Tu from on high.


    Qiu Tu, sitting on the chair, watched her with an ambiguous smile, devoid of reverence or awe. It was more like a performer singing a monologue on stage.


    In that moment, Larilo finally understood everything. Her last hopes died completely¡ªshe hadn''t fooled Qiu Tu with last night''s performance.


    Qiu Tu was like a hunter playing with his prey, watching his own entertainment.


    With that thought, Larilo''s lips twisted into a sneer¡­. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ----------


    Still two chapters, 10,000 words. Continuation tomorrow!


    The last three days of the month! Your Monthly Tickets will expire if not used! I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!


    If we can maintain top 100 in the Monthly Ticket rankings, we''ll have a fan title activity next month!

 Chapter 268 Confronting Larilo (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    If it were an old fox like Yan Chen, upon discovering that his scheme had been seen through by Qiu Tu, he would likely keep a straight face as if nothing had happened. Then he would quietly lie low, continuing to set traps or lay snares for Qiu Tu.


    As for someone like Secretary Bai, who enjoys speaking in riddles, upon discovering that his plot had been uncovered by Qiu Tu, he would most likely pretend not to notice, then start to tease and probe with many hints, engaging in a battle of wits and words with Qiu Tu.


    But... Larilo is neither Yan Chen nor Secretary Bai. She is an Evil God, moreover, a brazen one with extreme confidence in herself!


    So, she sneered at Qiu Tu and stopped pretending altogether.


    She sat poised in the air, looking down from above at Qiu Tu, her crimson eyes deep and bright, her voice tinged with a devilish charm, "It seems I couldn''t hide it from you, after all."


    "When did you start to suspect something was amiss?"


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu also dropped the act. He leaned back in his chair and said with a smile, "I never trusted you to begin with."


    In front of Larilo, Qiu Tu had always been obedient, and even when he occasionally broke free from Larilo''s control, he would find various reasons to excuse his behavior.


    Thus, although Larilo had long known that Qiu Tu was no ordinary man, she had never seen him in such a state before.


    In that moment, her crimson eyes narrowed, a dangerous light flickering within them.


    She ominously said, "It seems... you really think I can''t escape, so you dare to be so arrogant?"


    "Aren''t you afraid I will survive and come after you?"


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu just laughed.


    He pointed at Larilo, then at himself, and said, "You are an Evil God, and I am a human, moreover, a senior member of the Investigation Bureau. There''s inherent hostility between us."


    "Even if I don''t provoke you, would you let me off the hook once you get out?"


    "Very well," Larilo laughed merrily upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, her little feet twitching with delight...


    Larilo, having laid out her plans in Xinjie City for so long and avoided being caught by Qiu Tu several times, was clearly not a simple character.


    So, after she laughed, her pair of crimson eyes playful, she said,


    "However, what I don''t understand is, knowing that we are destined to be enemies, why didn''t you keep up the fa?ade and drag things out with me?"


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    "Instead, you deliberately mocked me, letting me see through it? Why is that?"


    As she spoke, Larilo''s eyes squinted in a quasi-smile, her lips slowly curling up as she said, "Unless... it was intentional."


    "So... do you want to cooperate with me?"


    Cooperating with an Evil God was a capital offense, so this was a proposition Qiu Tu would never entertain.


    He flatly denied it, "Your Highness, you are mistaken."


    "I just noticed that Director Yan''s Illusion of the Law underwent a significant change today."


    "I guess, he might have taken another step in devouring you."


    "We are enemies, after all, so I came specifically to mock you. After all... if I don''t do it now, I might not have the chance to mock you later."


    Qiu Tu''s words seemed righteous on the surface, and even showcased his arrogance to the full, seemingly without any issue. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... just as Qiu Tu understood Larilo, Larilo also understood Qiu Tu.


    In her mind, even if Qiu Tu was not a master strategist, he was definitely cunning and calculating.


    Such a person would never act without purpose. There would always be a deeper meaning.


    And for someone like Qiu Tu to start celebrating at halftime, that''s even less likely to happen.


    Thinking this, Larilo immediately guessed the reason behind Qiu Tu''s seemingly contradictory behavior:


    Qiu Tu obviously still wanted to cooperate with her, but didn''t want to give her any leverage in his words, which was why he didn''t take up her offer.


    With this thought, Larilo felt a bit more at ease.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and said seductively, "Is that so? Then my Young Pope really is heartless."


    "However... you overestimate Director Yan and underestimate me. It''s not yet clear who will win or lose between us."


    As she spoke, Larilo paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "For example... if Zhao Ji makes a move, I will definitely turn danger into safety."


    Larilo''s message was clear: she still wanted Zhao Ji to take action.


    But when Qiu Tu heard this, he decisively shook his head, "Stop dreaming. Your believers are either dead or captured. You have no one to summon Zhao Ji for you."


    "Moreover, betraying an Evil God is a capital offense, they will never come out in this lifetime."


    Qiu Tu''s message was also unmistakable: no way. Consort with an Evil God is a capital offense, I am not taking that risk."


    Larilo had never harbored any illusions about this plan¡ªif Qiu Tu were willing to accept this, he would have done so already.


    She was just throwing it out there to see his response.


    So when she saw Qiu Tu''s refusal, she didn''t mind and continued, "But I might still have a chance to survive."


    "Don''t think that just because Yan Chen is devouring me now, my soul, my strength of spirit, is much stronger than his."


    "Right now, he is burning his Life in a desperate rush, trying to become a Fourth Order by devouring my status."


    "In the end... he even plans to turn his Fourth Order power into a Fourth-order pseudograde."


    "Every step is like walking a tightrope, the slightest mishap could lead to utter disaster."


    Larilo: You can''t call for backup, then you help me affect Yan Chen. If he makes any mistake, he will fail, and I will be able to escape.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu shook his head and said, "I trust Director Yan''s abilities. He''s a master strategist."


    ```

 Chapter 268 Confronting Larilo (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_2

    ```


    "Such a complex plan, he certainly made thorough preparations in advance. He even reserved multiple backup plans." S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Moreover, he has now severed all contact with the outside world, so his mind won''t be affected by anything at all."


    "Therefore, what you''re hoping for simply can''t be achieved."


    Qiu Tu: The plan is ineffective. Yan Chen isn''t the impulsive type.


    With a slight flicker in her eyes, Larilo hesitated for a moment, as if weighing whether Qiu Tu was trustworthy.


    After a moment, she looked at Qiu Tu with profound eyes and said with a light laugh, "Yan Chen isn''t as brilliantly cunning as you."


    "And even if he really is that cunning, so what?"


    "My true body is still in the Boundless Heart Sea, in the location corresponding to Xinjie City."


    "As long as my true body can enter Yan Chen''s domain and resonate with my incarnation..."


    "Then my consciousness will be able to tap into the power of my true body, blast open Yan Chen''s domain, and lead my consciousness back."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "That must be difficult to achieve, right?"


    Larilo looked down, her expression obscured, "Not necessarily. Because the domain Yan Chen has set up isn''t just in the real world. It exists in the Boundless Heart Sea as well."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze also revealed deep contemplation.


    It was at this moment that Larilo spoke again.


    After revealing something about her true body, it was as if she had truly made up her mind, almost with a sense of resignation.


    She crossed her legs, shaking her little feet, and looked at Qiu Tu with a mischievous charm, then said, "In fact, besides the link between my true body and my incarnation, I have several other methods to escape."


    "For example, using special Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic treasures to release the shackles of my incarnation and consciousness, allowing me to return at any time."


    "For example, I could self-destruct my incarnation and soul, and flee back to the Boundless Heart Sea to recover."


    "It''s just that these methods either require prior preparation or cause too much damage."


    "However... no matter what, I definitely won''t die."


    "You can let go of the thought of me dying."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu first looked thoughtful, then chuckled and replied, "Then I''m going to be disappointed."


    "It''s unexpected that Director Yan, after all his effort, still can''t advance to the Fourth Order."


    Larilo clearly understood that Qiu Tu was seeking information from her.


    She snorted softly and said, "He is already of Third-Order Peak strength. It''s not necessary for him to devour my entire soul to advance to Fourth Order."


    "I reckon devouring a large part will suffice."


    As she spoke, Larilo nonchalantly added, "Today I talked to him about some things that could agitate him."


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    "While making him angry, I also increased the intensity of his devouring."


    "Although this will increase the side effects after devouring, it also accelerates the process significantly."


    Calculating briefly with her hand, Larilo then said, "At most 10 days, no, 7 days, he will probably be able to advance to the Fourth Order."


    After hearing Larilo''s intelligence, Qiu Tu quickly did the math.


    Yan Chen indeed gave himself enough lead time.


    Forget 7 days, even 10 days would suffice; Dongye State wouldn''t be established by then. He would still have time to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker.


    ''I must delay the time....''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smiled and then tentatively asked, "Your Highness, the Director is devouring you so swiftly, yet there are still side effects. Is there really no way to prevent them?"


    What Qiu Tu meant by "no side effects" was a ruse; what he truly wanted was to slow down Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    Larilo clearly caught the subtext of Qiu Tu''s words, so she rolled her eyes in sarcasm and said, "The Bureau Chief is devouring me, yet you want me to give him advice?"


    "I am what you call an ''Evil God'', not a ''Living Buddha'' from before the Era of Disaster!"


    Although she said this, Larilo still added with rolling eyes, "At most, you can drag it out for another 2 days."


    After speaking, her expression changed as if she suddenly experienced some pain, her body curling up and contorting.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was initially shocked, but then guessed that Yan Chen must have finished digesting the portion he devoured in the afternoon and had begun to continue devouring.


    Indeed, Larilo could only hold on for a few seconds before she no longer had the energy to communicate.


    Consequently, her figure turned into a mist of white air, which then abruptly contracted into that ancient coin.


    Reaching out to pick up the coin from the table, Qiu Tu played with it in his hand while also pondering the information Larilo had just revealed.


    Plainly speaking, there were only three angles to interfere with or interrupt Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    The first was to enlist outside help, where overwhelming force could break all laws. The second was to directly interfere with Yan Chen, affecting his mind. The third was to assist Larilo.


    Although Larilo had not yet revealed her trump card to Qiu Tu...


    But... Qiu Tu had already guessed it.


    Human thought is linear, not jumping from one place to another. Thus, every word spoken, every decision made actually exposes the information known to them.


    This is also why many people are bad at lying ¡ª their words reveal things they shouldn''t know.


    And Larilo was similar.


    She was merely seeking Qiu Tu''s help.


    But when she talked about communicating between consciousness and the true body, and using the power of the true body to blast open Yan Chen''s domain to lead her consciousness back, she clearly hesitated.


    This indicated that the plan might have several versions. She was unsure which one to tell, or whether revealing the superficial plan would render her trump card ineffective.

 Chapter 268 Confronting Larilo (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_3

    Moreover, Larilo can still contact the outside world.


    Qiu Tu speculated, "Larilo must have some method of establishing contact with her main body, leading it into her domain."


    However, this method was likely to have significant effects, which is why she was reluctant to use it.


    As for the other trump card, Qiu Tu felt that it might be related to the last method Larilo mentioned: self-destructing her avatar and soul to escape back to the Boundless Heart Sea to recuperate.


    Qiu Tu still guessed that Larilo deliberately beautified this method.


    After all... self-destructing one''s avatar and soul didn''t sound like a minor project.


    Larilo was bound to pay a price almost as great as being devoured.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu more or less understood Larilo''s situation with Yan Chen, as well as Larilo''s trump card.


    Relying solely on Larilo, it was impossible to stall for time until after the establishment of Dongye State. So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu decided he had to interfere with Yan Chen, or urge Liu Xiongyuan to expedite the emergence of Moonlight Lake...


    ''There are at most 9 days left... no, only 5 days of buffer time.''


    ''You can''t pin your hopes on an Evil God. After all, Evil Gods have no bottom line.''


    ''Who knows if this Evil God will realize the futility and turn to discuss a coalition with Yan Chen.''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took a couple of deep breaths and then made a decision in his heart: He must settle everything within five days.


    Just like that, he quietly reviewed the plan over and over again in his mind.


    In the end, Qiu Tu roughly had a plan in his heart. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Returning the rustic coin to his pocket, Qiu Tu touched his stomach and felt a bit hungry.


    He couldn''t help but look up at the clock hanging in the middle of the study.


    The clock showed that it was already half-past eleven at night.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback¡ªhe had just come to the late realization that he had been reading and waiting for Larilo the entire evening.


    With that thought, he once again glanced at the philosophical book titled "Existence," then got up from the study, went downstairs, and prepared to find something to eat.


    Descending slowly with the night light along the stairs, he reached the ground floor and discovered that the lights in the dining room were still on.


    Qiu Tu frowned and walked over, then saw that under the dim light, Fang Tangtang was dozing off, with her hands propped under her chin and her eyes closed.


    She was obviously extremely tired, her delicate nostrils breathing softly and steadily, and there was even clear drool flowing from the corner of her mouth...


    In front of her, three dishes were laid out: a pot of braised pork, a dish of spicy shredded potatoes, and a dish of stir-fried bok choy¡ªall Qiu Tu''s favorites.


    Next to the three dishes were also placed two pairs of chopsticks, one in front of Fang Tangtang, and the other at the main seat, obviously... reserved for Qiu Tu.


    From the intact state of the dishes and the orderly position of the chopsticks, it was evident that Fang Tangtang had been waiting for Qiu Tu to have dinner since she finished cooking...


    Under the dim light, the girl''s sweet oval face seemed even more beautiful...


    At that moment, perhaps sensing someone close by or hearing footsteps, Fang Tangtang jolted awake from her slumber.


    She clumsily wiped the drool from her mouth as she opened her somewhat bleary eyes.


    When her vision gradually cleared, she finally saw Qiu Tu standing not far from her.


    In that instant, her expression became a bit tense, and she quickly lowered her head, not daring to look Qiu Tu in the eye.


    After a moment, she timidly said, "Have you... finished your work? Are you ready to have dinner?"


    ------


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 Chapter 269 The Second Night with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Having said that, Fang Tangtang realized belatedly that she had been sitting there talking to Qiu Tu all along. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She quickly got up in a panic, like a child who had made a mistake, with her face flushed and her head lowered, too scared to speak.


    The dim light shone on Fang Tangtang, adding a touch of tenderness to her, yet it also made her appear even more delicate.


    Hearing the words of the girl in front of him and seeing her timid demeanor, Qiu Tu remained silent for two seconds before asking, "Did you have dinner?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Fang Tangtang hastily shook her hand in a bit of a panic, "No, no. I''ve been waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu:....


    Qiu Tu glanced at the clock on the kitchen wall. It was 11:40 PM.


    He vaguely remembered that when he had come home, it was about 6 PM.


    At that time, the girl was cooking.


    So... had she cooked the meal and then been waiting with an empty stomach for him to return?


    ''Is this a tactic taught by The Five Elders, or... does she truly want to wait to have dinner with me?''


    Because of his experiences across two lifetimes, Qiu Tu did not judge the girl in front of him so easily.


    So he simply said expressionlessly, "Then, let''s reheat the food and eat together."


    "Yes." Fang Tangtang timidly agreed, hurriedly carrying the dishes, and clumsily went to reheat them.


    Despite being usually clumsy in her actions, she had some talent in cooking, so it didn''t take long to reheat the three dishes, and she even made an extra soup.


    Moving on tiptoes, she rushed to bring the dishes to the table, reverting to the quail-like appearance: head down, sitting obediently in the chair waiting for Qiu Tu to speak.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu picked up his chopsticks and softly said, "Let''s eat."


    It was only then that Fang Tangtang, with her bowl in hand, began to eat, keeping her head down. Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    During dinner, Qiu Tu''s gaze tended to drift towards Fang Tangtang from the corner of his eye.


    He noticed that Fang Tangtang was also sneaking glances at him.


    Those large eyes took quick peeks at him under the guise of picking up food with her chopsticks.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu remained silent for a moment before starting a conversation. He inquired, "Did you make all these dishes yourself?"


    It wasn''t that Qiu Tu doubted Fang Tangtang. Mainly, he had seen too much deception in his former life¡ªordering takeaway and claiming it was home-cooked, and to make matters worse, it was fast-food chicken!


    So if Fang Tangtang had the Fang Family''s chef cook the meal and just pretended in front of him, it was a possibility.


    Who knew that upon hearing this, Fang Tangtang immediately looked nervously at Qiu Tu and asked weakly, "Is it... too bland?"


    Her face red, head lowered, she said sheepishly, "I... I don''t know your taste. So I didn''t dare add too much salt."


    At that, she raised her head, carefully watching Qiu Tu, and suggested, "Shall I go back and adjust it?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected his simple question to lead to so many explanations from Fang Tangtang.


    However... these explanations indirectly proved that she had cooked the meal, which, in a way, answered Qiu Tu''s question.


    So Qiu Tu simply lifted his chopsticks slightly and said indifferently, "The taste is quite good. Let''s eat."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s affirmation, Fang Tangtang smiled sweetly, her large eyes curving into two crescent moons, making her look especially lovely, conveying a feeling of healing.


    Qiu Tu was momentarily lost in thought, his lips involuntarily curling upwards.


    After the meal, Qiu Tu was the first to put down his utensils.


    Seeing Qiu Tu do so, Fang Tangtang, who was eating with stuffed cheeks, quickly wiped her mouth and also hurriedly put down her utensils.


    Noticing this, Qiu Tu said, "It''s okay. Continue eating."


    Fang Tangtang''s eyes, brimming with a bit of longing, nevertheless firmly shook her head, whispering, "No need, no need. I''m already full."


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu did not insist further.


    He adjusted his clothes and stood up, ready to go back and rest.


    But just then, Fang Tangtang took the initiative to call out to Qiu Tu for the first time, "Qiu... Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu stopped, then turned his head to look at her.


    Possibly because of Qiu Tu''s stern expression and imposing demeanor, Fang Tangtang visibly flinched.


    She shrunk her neck and looked up at him cautiously, then asked uneasily, "Can... can I call you that?"


    After two seconds of silence, Qiu Tu nodded.


    With Qiu Tu''s positive response, Fang Tangtang''s face showed a pretty smile. Then she timidly said, "I wanted to talk to you about the question you asked me when you entered today."


    Hearing Fang Tangtang''s words, Qiu Tu was startled. His mind raced as he tried to recall, and maybe because several hours had passed, he had already forgotten what he had asked on a whim.


    Meanwhile, earnestness was written all over Fang Tangtang''s round, goose-egg face as she scrunched up her cute little nose and sincerely said, "I really did encounter something happy today."


    "It might be because the two of us are together now. Grandpa has arranged for my parents a house twice the size of the current one, along with a sum of money."


    "My mother was very happy when she came to see me today. She said that Grandpa even secured a good position for my brother in the family''s business ventures."


    Fang Tangtang, with her head down and clutching her dress, was a bit nervous, "I know all this is because of you."


    "Grandpa is so good to our family, actually, all because of you."


    "But... I get a bit nervous when I see you, so after you asked me, I subconsciously denied it."


    Hearing Fang Tangtang''s trivial worries, Qiu Tu furrowed his brow slightly and couldn''t help asking, "Why tell me this?"


    Fang Tangtang became even more nervous at Qiu Tu''s words. She whispered, "But... isn''t that what you''re supposed to do when in a relationship? Be honest with each other?"

 Chapter 269 The Second Night with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "If there''s a misunderstanding, it should be cleared up. Don''t let small things turn into grudges, ultimately becoming serious issues..."


    In the end, she herself was a bit unsure. She lifted her head, her big watery eyes looking at Qiu Tu, and asked weakly, "Did I get it wrong...?


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Fang Tangtang''s understanding wasn''t wrong. According to Qiu Tu''s experience as a person in two lifetimes, dating indeed requires honesty and clearing up misunderstandings.


    But the problem is... their relationship isn''t romantic love!


    Using words like "marriage," "setting up a family," "dating," was just Qiu Tu and The Five Elders'' way of beautifying the relationship.


    None believed it, yet... Fang Tangtang, this silly girl, actually believed it.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gave Fang Tangtang a suspicious glance, trying to see if the girl in front of him really misunderstood, or if she was pretending.


    But all he met was a pair of clear, water-like eyes.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Forget it. Let her think what she wants.


    I''ve been too busy lately to explain it to her.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nodded and then said, "You''re not wrong in your thinking. You did well.


    "Keep it up in the future."


    Fang Tangtang''s face blossomed into a sweet smile upon receiving Qiu Tu''s affirmation, clearly feeling a lot happier...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was at a loss for words for a moment and could only stand up and return to the upper floor.


    He randomly picked a guest room, took a bath, Qiu Tu returned to his study, brought the edition of "Existence" back to the guest room, and then started reading it leaning against the headboard.


    He planned to finish the book before going to sleep.


    This philosophical book was probably written by some big shot at the Sanctuary about their understanding of the world''s essence.


    After reading it, Qiu Tu''s knowledge about this world, the Spirit World, the real world, the Cataclysm Path, and the essence of Supernatural Power would significantly improve.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu began to slowly read the book.


    But then, he didn''t know how long he had read, maybe 10 minutes, maybe over half an hour.


    Suddenly, the door to the guest room was gently pushed open from the outside.


    Qiu Tu cautiously lifted his head from the book, and then he saw Fang Tangtang, dressed in a white valley robe, her face flushed, walking in from outside.


    Qiu Tu slowly raised a question mark above his head:?


    He looked at Fang Tangtang and inquired, "What''s wrong?"


    Fang Tangtang gently closed the door, then lowered her head and timidly said, "I''ve come to sleep with you..."


    Qiu Tu:....


    Qiu Tu felt a headache coming on.


    He really wanted to explain to Fang Tangtang: their arrangement was only a political marriage, many things were just for show, and it was enough just to let both sides understand each other''s stance. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    Last night, he took her... because he had to.


    But in the future, there really was no need to continue.


    And just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the belt around her waist.


    The next second, the valley robe slid off...


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. And he still had to read the philosophical treatise tonight!


    So, he kept his eyes on the book titled "Existence," one glance, two glances...and then he couldn''t read any further!


    ''To hell with "Existence," the meaning of ''existence'' is all about XX!''


    Thinking those extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting words, Qiu Tu jumped down and in Fang Tangtang''s exclamation, scooped her up in his arms...


    Blue Moon blushed, drawing dark clouds to cover its face.


    And Qiu Tu once again indulged in the joy of Fang Tangtang''s facial cleanser...


    In the end, Qiu Tu had only one thought.


    ''Facial cleanser really is better when it''s big!''


    ....


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up. He looked at Fang Tangtang beside him, speechless for a long time.


    ''What the hell is all this!''


    ''Why do I feel like this girl is jinxing me!''


    ''Dumb and cute thwarts the dark and crafty?''


    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu was deeply puzzled. He then tiptoed to the master bedroom to freshen up.


    Without waking Fang Tangtang, who was still asleep from exhaustion, Qiu Tu dressed in his uniform and exited the villa''s main gate.


    At this time, the driver assigned by the Investigation Bureau was already waiting outside. Upon seeing Qiu Tu, he hastily saluted, "Minister."


    Qiu Tu nodded gravely and got into the car, heading toward the Investigation Bureau.


    Throughout the journey, the image of Fang Tangtang lingered in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    After hesitating for a moment, he decided to leave a voice message on the villa''s landline, informing Fang Tangtang that he had gone to work.


    Shaking his head to clear the image of the cute girl from his thoughts, Qiu Tu refocused his attention on his work.


    He now had only four and a half days to resolve Yan Chen''s promotion. He did not have the luxury of time to dwell on romantic entanglements.


    The day before, Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, and Shi Youxin had exchanged interests, significantly promoting their various confidants.


    As a result, the influence of the three within the Investigation Bureau surged.


    Qiu Tu''s side also gained considerably from this. Cao Dabiao was dispatched to the Administrative Office as head of the Propaganda Department, and Chen Feng assumed the position of Deputy Staff Director at the Political Department''s Action Division.


    As for the other confidants, they were all promoted from Second-Class Investigators to First Level Detectives. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun¡ªthose brothers not under Qiu Tu''s direct command¡ªwere all promoted to First Level Detectives, allowed to lead teams independently and undertake missions, taking a significant step into the ranks of officials.


    Considering that yesterday Larilo infuriated Yan Chen to the point of shaking the Illusion of the Law and increasing the devouring speed, it was apparent that Yan Chen was also under immense pressure and remained highly concerned about the external world.


    So... the next steps were simple. What Qiu Tu had to do was disrupt Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    By doing so, he could prevent Yan Chen from focusing entirely on devouring Larilo.


    This would not only delay Yan Chen''s process, affecting his appointment as Deputy Speaker, but also potentially add complications...


    Based on the intelligence revealed by Larilo the night before, any disturbance of Yan Chen''s mental focus and acceleration of the devouring would damage his foundation.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu was naturally determined to continue his efforts in that direction!


    As for how to affect Yan Chen, Qiu Tu actually had a plan in mind since the previous night.


    Although Qiu Tu had gleaned many methods and ideas on how to influence the devouring process from Larilo''s lips last night.


    But actually... he had asked so many questions more for intelligence gathering, rather than real intention to execute them.


    Because... he had long held a stronger trump card in his hand...


    Thinking along these lines, after arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu strolled into his office.


    Tan Huimin hadn''t come to work today. Or rather, since her attempt to persuade Zheng Tao failed yesterday morning, she had not appeared at the Investigation Bureau again.


    Qiu Tu didn''t particularly mind. Zheng Tao and his wife were a gambit¡ªif they proved useful, excellent; if not, he wouldn''t pay them much attention.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu locked his office and then proceeded to the resting room, where from the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," he retrieved a black box.


    This was a citywide communication device given to Qiu Tu by Liu Xiongyuan.


    Using this device, he could directly contact Liu Xiongyuan via a secret line, impervious to any eavesdropping by those in the Investigation Bureau.


    Holding the black box and following Liu Xiongyuan''s instructions, Qiu Tu punched in a series of numbers.


    The next second, the black box made a "clatter" sound and a miniature earpiece fell out.


    Qiu Tu took the earpiece and put it on. The earpiece emitted a "beep... beep..." waiting tone.


    Qiu Tu patiently waited a few seconds until a "click" indicated the phone was picked up, and Liu Xiongyuan''s furious voice burst from the receiver, "Damn it! Are those bastards from the United Front looking for death? They dare eye Moonlight Lake!"


    "You! Take a few teams! Go sweep their contact points directly!"


    "Wipe out as much as you find! Kill all the related personnel! Not a single one spared!"


    "I showed them mercy! At such a critical moment, to play these kinds of tricks with me!"


    After ranting for a good ten seconds, Liu Xiongyuan seemed to remember he had just picked up a call from Qiu Tu.


    He took a deep breath, and his voice softened, "Qiu Tu, what''s the matter? You wouldn''t call me like this without an urgent issue, right?"


    Qiu Tu had heard every word of Liu Xiongyuan''s tirade, clear as day.


    These old foxes always had their own agendas in everything they did. Even the most transparent and magnanimous among them were no exception.


    This didn''t mean they didn''t trust you; it was an instinct honed from years of navigating the treacherous waters of bureaucracy.


    So, while Qiu Tu quietly analyzed the intelligence Liu Xiongyuan''s words revealed, he continued the conversation, "Director Liu, I thought I heard you mention Moonlight Lake just now?"


    "What''s happened at Moonlight Lake? Is there any change?"


    ------


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words. Last three days of the month, ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 270 Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Liu Xiongyuan, that tough old man, huffed and then said, "What changes could there be? It''s still the same gang of petty thugs from the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    Clearly not inclined to delve deep, Liu Xiongyuan straightforwardly stated, "The benefits of that Moonlight Lake are just too immense. All kinds of powers are stirring, itching to make a move."


    "Eastern City and Xinjie City are just in the Planning Area, and the Anti-government Armed Forces have always had their nails in it."


    "Every move can''t be kept secret." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Therefore, upon learning that the Moonlight Lake was about to form, the United Front has been spying from the sidelines."


    "The day before yesterday, that bastard Yan Chen advanced to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver, leading to the Xinjie City Military sending several squads of soldiers over for protection, which immediately presented them with an opportunity."


    "The United Front secretly mobilized a regular army of nearly ten thousand from the Disaster Zone, ready to contest for Moonlight Lake."


    "And their spies in various cities started to frantically gather intelligence like madmen, assassinating officials."


    At this point, Liu Xiongyuan cautioned, "You also need to be careful these next few days. Your standing in Xinjie City isn''t low, and considering your past enmity with them, it''s very likely you''re also on their hit list."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s warning, Qiu Tu politely expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Director Liu, for your concern. I will be vigilant and careful."


    With that, Qiu Tu, lost in thought, said, "I''ve only just started work today and am not yet clear on the situation in Xinjie City."


    "It seems we too must make some preparations in advance, to avoid being flustered at the last moment."


    After finishing this topic, Qiu Tu timely brought up the reason for his call.


    After a pause of two seconds, he then spoke in a low voice, "There seems to be some changes in Yan Chen''s situation..."


    Liu Xiongyuan was clearly also very concerned about the progress of Yan Chen''s devouring, so upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, his gaze sharpened, and then he asked in a deep voice, "What changes?"


    ...


    Compared to the newly established Xinjie City of just one year, Eastern City had been established for five years. In terms of political stability and urban prosperity, it was far ahead of Xinjie City.


    The streets were almost all flat, with most covered in asphalt roads.


    Lampposts were erected at regular intervals on every street, with trash cans placed in between. Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    The neatly dressed people on the streets were clean, indicating they had access to stable and affordable water sources.


    From their full figures, different from the gaunt appearance of those in other cities, one could tell that their basic food needs had been met.


    On the roads, besides the occasional cars, there were rickshaws, horse-drawn carriages, and even bicycles shuttling back and forth, suggesting that the city''s fundamental transportation and trade had been restored.


    The Investigation Bureau agents in temporary uniforms were leisurely patrolling the streets in twos and threes, which also indicated the city''s security had become stable.


    And right in the middle of such a more prosperous city than Xinjie City, on the top floor of the 16-story Investigation Bureau Office Building, in the Bureau Chief''s office.


    Liu Xiongyuan was standing by the window, frowning and on the phone, while looking at the bustling scenery of Eastern City below.


    His skin was dark and his face rugged with the years, etched deeply with age lines, each one seeming to chronicle past hardships and battles.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words on the phone, his eyes were black as ink, flickering with a cold and sharp light.


    After Qiu Tu finished, he said in a deep voice, "So, what you mean is, Yan Chen actually left himself a lot of leeway?"


    "Now that he''s realized something is amiss, he''s willing to compromise his future foundations to accelerate the devouring of that Evil God?"


    On the phone, Qiu Tu hummed in agreement, then said, "He clearly made thorough preparations and backup plans. Even now, he still has reserves."


    "Otherwise, he couldn''t have adjusted the devouring speed so naturally."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan said, "Then how many days does he have left to completely finish devouring?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Five days."


    He paused for a moment, then added, "To be precise, it might only be 4.5 days."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Xiongyuan''s thick and rough eyebrows slowly arched up, as if symbolizing his unsettled mood.


    His mouth shut tight, the corners turning downward in a stern arc.


    After a moment, his eyes slowly became icy cold, "Tomorrow. Tomorrow night, I will make Moonlight Lake form ahead of schedule."


    "I will make Yan Chen''s advance to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver utterly useless."


    Qiu Tu made this call primarily to get this answer.


    So, upon receiving Liu Xiongyuan''s response, Qiu Tu felt a bit more at ease.


    However, as it was a rare occasion to make a call, he didn''t just hang up, but continued to discuss related topics.


    "Director Liu, I''ve heard that around Eastern City, several cities are also fortified by a powerful Evil God?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan on the phone grunted heavily, "Zhao Ji!"


    Qiu Tu acknowledged, "Yes, it should be her."


    Liu Xiongyuan was clearly very sensitive when it came to Zhao Ji, and he asked in a serious tone, "What about her?"


    Having no personal issues with Zhao Ji nor any secrets to hide, Qiu Tu naturally explained, "The precise intelligence I''ve received is that the Evil God Yan Chen is devouring may have some connection to Zhao Ji."


    "She''s been seeking help from Zhao Ji to escape her current crisis."


    Qiu Tu paused, then added, "I''m worried she might interfere with our plans."


    Liu Xiongyuan fell silent for a few seconds at Qiu Tu''s concern, and pondered quietly over his worries.

 Chapter 270 Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_2

    After a moment, he spoke in a softer tone, "Zhao Ji, this Evil God, is cruel and powerful. If there is one flaw, it''s her love of wealth."


    "But what she adores is not the gold and silver of the real world, but various Cataclysmic treasures, the remains of Cataclysmic Creatures, and even souls."


    "So, if one wishes to merely entice Zhao Ji to act with the promise of profit, the price Larilo would have to pay would be indeed colossal...."


    Qiu Tu recalled the method Larilo had him use to request Zhao Ji''s help¡ªlight three sticks of incense, and softly chant "my lord Larilo" three times.


    Clearly, this involved no negotiation, more like a request without any additional benefits: Larilo is in trouble, seeking assistance.


    This seemed somewhat inconsistent with what Liu Xiongyuan had said.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu hesitated slightly before asking, "Could there be some other connection or relationship between Larilo and Zhao Ji?"


    In discussing Zhao Ji, Liu Xiongyuan always seemed extremely cautious.


    He pondered for a while before saying, "Both Larilo and Zhao Ji have been Evil Gods for many years."


    "Over these years, there''s been no intelligence suggesting any relationship between them."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu "hmmed" thoughtfully.


    At that moment, Liu Xiongyuan suddenly spoke up, "Qiu Tu...do not get too closely involved with the Evil Gods."


    Qiu Tu felt a chill in his heart.


    He wanted to explain himself but Liu Xiongyuan continued, "We''ve all been through the phase you''re in."


    "Some cases, some intelligence, some leads might indeed be verified more precisely through the Evil Gods."


    "But... Evil Gods are not so easy to deal with."


    "They are among the smartest of the Cataclysmic Creatures, skilled in disguises, scheming, and bewitching minds."


    "We''ve seen too many people who sought information from them, only to be brainwashed and fallen in the end." sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, don''t get too involved or collaborate with them."


    "I don''t want to see you at the execution ground."


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    Having said that, Liu Xiongyuan paused, then added, "See, the approach of Yan Chen is very appropriate."


    "Have confidants to deal with the Evil Gods, take action. Meanwhile, stay uninvolved, and from a safe distance, urge them on."


    "This way, you won''t have to directly face the temptations of the Evil Gods and you can still cut ties with them. Even if the Sanctuary comes to investigate, they won''t be able to trace it back to him."


    Warmed by Liu Xiongyuan''s heartfelt reminder, Qiu Tu spoke softly, "Thank you for the guidance, Director Liu. I will keep it in mind."


    After their conversation, Qiu Tu took the initiative to say goodbye, ready to disconnect the communicator and wait patiently for Liu Xiongyuan to initiate the plan.


    But just as the call was about to end, Qiu Tu, as if something had just occurred to him, suddenly asked, "By the way, Director Liu. There''s one more thing I''d like to ask you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan showed no impatience. He asked, "What is it?"


    Qiu Tu asked, "Do you know Rao Shou, the author of ''Existence''? Who exactly is he?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Xiongyuan on the other end of the phone was silent for a good two seconds before responding, "You don''t know him?"


    Confused, Qiu Tu replied, "Should I know him?"


    On the other end of the phone, Liu Xiongyuan gave a slight shake of the head before saying, "You should... pay more attention to the news, to the Sanctuary''s daily paper."


    "Rao Shou is the Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Eighth Sanctuary."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback upon hearing this.


    He had guessed that Rao Shou might be one of the Sanctuary''s higher-ups, but he didn''t expect him to be of such high rank.


    What it means to be the Speaker of the Supreme Council...the highest official of the entire Sanctuary, his commands in the Eighth Sanctuary are akin to law. Every word and action, even a sneeze, could create a huge storm in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    ''So he''s the Speaker of the Supreme Council...''


    While feeling astounded inwardly, Qiu Tu sincerely thanked Liu Xiongyuan and then explained, "Director Liu, after all, I have only recently been promoted and beforehand had no way to see the Sanctuary''s news and newspapers."


    "I will apply at the Bureau today to see if they can get me an extra copy."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan showed understanding, "Indeed, it''s not your fault. Your foundation is too shallow, and you''re unaware of many basic facts."


    Continuing, he then changed his tone, "So come to Eastern City and join me. I will teach you personally."


    Qiu Tu didn''t expect Liu Xiongyuan would come around to the topic of recruitment again. He couldn''t help but smile wryly at the sudden turn.


    After exchanging a few more casual words, the two ended the communication.


    Putting the earpiece back into the small black box, the box automatically shut, securing the communicator inside.


    After placing the small black box back into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," Qiu Tu examined the intelligence he had obtained from Liu Xiongyuan.


    There were primarily three pieces of intelligence.


    The first was that the United Front had dispatched a large force to seize the imminent Moonlight Lake.


    The second was that Moonlight Lake would truly form tomorrow night.


    The third was... to cover for the United Front''s main forces, the secret agents of the Front were assassinating officials in various cities to create chaos....


    At this thought, Qiu Tu was startled: Wait a minute! Tan Huimin hasn''t shown up for work; could she have been attacked or abducted?


    Although Tan Huimin''s rank wasn''t high, she was Qiu Tu''s secretary, privy to much of the Investigation Bureau''s intelligence and high-level information, which made her a target of value for assassination.


    With this realization, Qiu Tu, having initially not been too concerned about Tan Huimin''s disappearance, quickly left the lounge and opened the door to his office.


    He planned to call a few confidants and, using Tan Huimin''s home address, search along the route for traces or for any sign of Tan Huimin.

 Chapter 270 Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_3

    Unexpectedly, as soon as he opened the door to the office, he saw Tan Hui Min squatting by the door, holding several documents, looking utterly broken... Your journey continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    For the past few days, this beautiful young wife seemed to have been wearing the same clothes, the somewhat seductive professional skirt outfit she was wearing the second time Qiu Tu saw her.


    ¡ªA sheer blouse, a form-fitting skirt, paired with a gentle wife''s bun, and the dried tear stains on her face.


    It must be said... Tan Hui Min, in her distraught state, was indeed more attractive than usual.


    Seeing Tan Hui Min safe and squatting there, Qiu Tu let out a sigh of relief¡ª it seemed Tan Hui Min hadn''t been attacked. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However... Seeing Tan Hui Min in this dispirited state made Qiu Tu blink, feeling somewhat sorry for her.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but lower his head and ask softly, "Madam, are you alright?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min blankly raised her head to look over.


    Upon seeing it was Qiu Tu, she seemed to remember something and hurriedly stood up, then handed the documents she was holding to Qiu Tu,


    "Minister, these are the half-year work summaries of the Intelligence Section, the Interrogation Section, and the Inspection Department that you assigned the day before yesterday."


    "I went to their three departments to collect them after I came to work this morning. However, when I got back, I found the office door closed."


    Hearing Tan Hui Min''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes slightly lifted in surprise, as he hadn''t expected Tan Hui Min to still remember work under these circumstances.


    It was more commendable compared to yesterday when she left her post without a word, running to the 12th floor to plead with Tang Feifei on Zheng Tao''s behalf.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu nodded and said, "Alright, I''ll take a look."


    With that, Qiu Tu added, "Come in with me."


    Having said that, he turned back into the office.


    Behind him, Tan Hui Min walked into the office like a walking corpse.


    Qiu Tu sat down at his desk, opened the summary files while casually asking Tan Hui Min, "How many days has it been since you changed your clothes, took a bath, or rested?"


    "Go take a bath in my resting room and sleep for a while."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu felt a bit regretful. After all... given his relationship with Tan Hui Min, such words were a bit too abrupt.


    Unexpectedly, Tan Hui Min actually nodded, then said in a low voice, "Thank you, Minister."


    After saying that, she turned and went to the resting room, took off her clothes, and began to bathe.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Through the open door, Qiu Tu clearly saw the entire process of Tan Hui Min undressing.


    For a moment, he was speechless.


    Good heavens. How shocked must she have been to reach such a state of negligence?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu first closed the door to the resting room and then, after some deliberation, picked up the phone and called Song Qing.


    The content of the call was simple¡ª just asking Song Qing to send over the interrogation records of Tan Hui Min and Zheng Tao from the previous day.


    Although Qiu Tu had let Tan Hui Min conduct the interrogation alone yesterday, he had secretly placed recording devices in the interrogation room while being alone, recording the interrogation content. Now it was a good time to listen and review.


    After giving out this task, Qiu Tu listened to the sound of water "pattering" in the resting room while he started reviewing the summary reports of his three subordinate departments.


    Reviewing these reports not only helped him to understand the situation of the departments faster but also served as a process for him to identify gaps and fill them in his own intelligence work.


    Hence, his primary task while going through these reports was to look for information related to Yan Chen, Larilo, Zhao Ji, and even Moonlight Lake.


    It must be said, after flipping through a few files, he indeed found some interesting information...


    ------


    Still 2 chapters, 10,000 words haha! Full attendance this month with daily 10,000 words (will also do daily 10,000 words for the last two days)! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 271 Great Evil God Zhaohui (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    The first piece of intelligence is about Zhao Ji.


    According to the Intelligence Section''s reports, Zhao Ji is the most powerful Evil God around Xinjie City. Not only has her strength reached the Fifth Order, but all her cataclysmic abilities are combat-oriented, making her extremely formidable in battle.


    Therefore, the Political Departments and Security Departments of the dozen or so cities surrounding Xinjie City have determined their most significant and also most important task since their establishment to be to devise ways to collect intelligence on Zhao Ji.


    The Political Department of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau is no exception.


    Based on the investigations of these dozen cities and more than twenty departments, it has now been basically confirmed that Zhao Ji''s "headquarters" is located in Eastern City, and her influence spans across eight cities.


    And in her vicinity, there are only three or four Fourth-Order Evil Gods, among whom is Xinjie''s Larilo.


    Thus, the territorial map of Dongye State might as well be divided intentionally according to the spheres of influence of the Evil Gods rather than being divided based on economic and geographic regions by the Sanctuary.


    Following this piece of intelligence, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but fall into thought¡ªHuang Shangzong, as a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council, is also one of the upper echelons of the Sanctuary.


    This time he personally took charge and was stationed in Dongye State; could it be that he was here for Zhao Ji?


    And the Sanctuary has established Planning Areas on Zhao Ji''s turf over the years; could it be that they were also scheming for her domain?


    After all... as long as Zhao Ji is defeated or killed, there will no longer be any powerful Evil Gods lurking near Dongye State, and the Sanctuary can establish defensive fortifications in this region of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    With some time to assimilate, it can formally be incorporated into the Sanctuary''s territory.


    Isn''t this how all the major Sanctuaries expand little by little?


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    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu continued to look at the second interesting piece of intelligence.


    The second interesting piece of intelligence is about Larilo.


    According to the Intelligence Section''s information, it seems that Larilo doesn''t get along well with Zhao Ji.


    Larilo once fought Zhao Ji about seven or eight years ago and was almost slapped to death by Zhao Ji.


    Larilo then fought Zhao Ji again three years ago and was almost blasted away again by Zhao Ji.


    Finally, a year before the establishment of Xinjie City, she fought Zhao Ji once more. This time the results were not so unsightly.


    They exchanged blow for blow with several dozen moves. Zhao Ji tore off one of Larilo''s arms, a leg, and nearly twisted off her head.


    Therefore, even if there is no deep-seated enmity like a blood feud between them, there must be some deep hatred.


    This is probably why Liu Xiongyuan hesitated and mentioned that these two Evil Gods didn''t seem to have any personal dealings.


    According to the Intelligence Section, Larilo''s Cataclysm Path is "Life Reproduction."


    And among her several cataclysmic abilities, there is a high probability one resembles an ability like "Extraordinary Regeneration."


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t keep coming back for more after repeated defeats.


    As Qiu Tu perused the Intelligence Section''s collection of reports, he discovered there was not a shortage of information regarding Larilo.


    It not only recorded the traces Larilo left in Xinjie City over the past year but also documented her followers who were killed by Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and the Security Department.


    Even the overt confrontations and fights between Qiu Tu and Larilo during this period were noted in the records.


    At the end of the information about Larilo, the Intelligence Section also noted why Larilo was so eager to claim Moonlight Lake.


    The reason being, Moonlight Lake is able to produce a large quantity of "Tears of Moonlight," which is a rather common Cataclysmic Material known for its mild effects and soothing properties.


    This is especially suitable for a "Life" path Cataclysmic Creature like Larilo to enhance her strength.


    Although it''s uncertain how much a whole lake of Tears of Moonlight could help Larilo, the Intelligence Section estimates that it should significantly enhance her power.


    Moreover, some investigations by the Intelligence Section even suggest that Moonlight Lake might actually be related to Larilo.


    It is suspected that Moonlight Lake was either spawned, catalyzed by Larilo, or that she moved the "seed" from somewhere else and "planted" it near Xinjie City.


    After reading this second piece of intelligence, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but stroke his chin and fall into deep thought.


    He remembered that Larilo once told him that Moonlight Lake was fated to be hers, her possession.


    At that time, Qiu Tu took it as a typical act of usurpation by an Evil God and didn''t take it seriously. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now it seemed there was a slight possibility?


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t fully trust the intelligence from the Intelligence Section.


    Based on what the chief of the Intelligence Section had introduced about their sources of intelligence, Qiu Tu knew that their intelligence came from three main sources.


    The first one was their own intelligence, which consisted of the information collected by agents from the government department''s intelligence branches through various forms of espionage.


    This part of the intelligence primarily consisted of various market rumors, secret news from all walks of life, and various messages from the three major organizations.


    This is also the "starting point" of the Intelligence Section''s information compilation.


    Often, the Intelligence Section would first come across an interesting core piece of intelligence through these channels and then start to frantically collect information and spy on news revolving around this core.


    The second one was summarized intelligence, which generally came from the brother departments of the Political Department.


    For instance, intelligence gathered by espionage, counter-espionage departments; as well as valuable intelligence obtained through interrogation by the Interrogation Section.


    The "Intelligence Agency" is usually the source of the most intelligence. A lot of the information about Larilo and Zhao Ji came from the Intelligence Agency, which obtained it from the Security Department''s intelligence branches.


    Lastly, the third source was the intelligence sent by the Sanctuary.


    According to the rules of the Sanctuary, the reports prepared by the Political Department''s Intelligence Section, after organization, summary, and conclusion, must be regularly reported to the Sanctuary.

 Chapter 271 Great Evil God Zhao Ji (10,000 characters for a Monthly Ticket!)_2

    While reporting to the Sanctuary, the Sanctuary would also send a lot of intelligence to the Intelligence Section.


    Some of this intelligence was related to Xinjie City, some was related to the situation around Xinjie City, and some was about important figures in Xinjie City.


    This intelligence was often obtained by the Political Department or the Security Department of other cities, summarized, selected, and distributed by the intelligence department of the Sanctuary.


    Of course, besides this passive distribution, the Intelligence Section could also apply to the Sanctuary for specific intelligence about a person, an event, or a certain Evil God.


    As long as the reason was legitimate, met the regulations, and reached the required level, the Sanctuary''s intelligence department was very likely not to refuse.


    For instance, the fact that Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, established only a year and a half ago, knew the intelligence about Larilo and Zhaohui from several years prior was actually applied for from the Sanctuary.


    After reading through the summary from the Intelligence Section, Qiu Tu picked up the summaries from the Interrogation Section and the Inspection Department to read.


    Compared to the interesting intelligence and information from the Intelligence Section, the summaries from the Interrogation Section and the Inspection Department were much more tedious.


    The summary from the Interrogation Section recorded the identities, positions, levels, and cases involved of the prisoners who were interrogated.


    The Inspection Department recorded the number of reports, information, and materials concerning officials from the City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and the military.


    As Qiu Tu had guessed¡ªXinjie City was newly established, the rules were not yet fully set, and the people had no concept of supervising law enforcement, so there were hardly any reports.


    Even if there were, they were mostly from small to medium-sized merchants reporting on the inaction of departments related to the economy and trade at the City Hall.


    These minor issues in Xinjie City at present couldn''t even count as matters warranting criticism and education...


    Having finished reading the summaries from the three departments, Qiu Tu had a clear understanding of his own responsibilities and powers!


    The Intelligence Section was truly of the utmost importance!


    It was the eyes and ears of the entire Political Department and even the Investigation Bureau.


    Controlling the Intelligence Section was like controlling the eyes and ears of the higher-ups at the Investigation Bureau.


    He could show them what he wanted them to see, and let them hear what he wanted them to hear.


    Moreover, with the authority to liaise upwards and request intelligence, the importance of the Intelligence Section was further highlighted.


    With control over this department, Qiu Tu would no longer be in the dark about anything he set out to do.


    As for the Inspection Department... Although it was the least developed and currently just about equivalent to a useless department.


    But that was only because the sword had not been drawn from its sheath.


    Once Qiu Tu sharpened this department, it would become his most powerful weapon, and also the sharp sword hanging over the heads of all his enemies!


    As for the Interrogation Section...


    Although it also held great authority, frankly speaking, it was far inferior to the previous two sections.


    Therefore, as long as it did not cause trouble for Qiu Tu, and even if it was later handed over to a new Head of the Political Department, Qiu Tu felt completely acceptable.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu put aside the summary reports from the three departments.


    The summary from the Inspection Department was handed to him personally by the Diciplinary Department, and nobody else could take it away.


    Thus, Qiu Tu''s next goal was to take complete control of the Intelligence Section.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help thinking about which of his confidants to transfer into the Intelligence Section to start setting things up...


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu was thinking this way,


    "Bang bang bang" someone knocked on the door of his office from the outside.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and said in a deep voice, "Come in."


    The office door was pushed open from the outside, and following that, a cute little head peeked in.


    That laughable little head looked left and right, and seeing no one else, bounced into the office with a smile, "Chief! I''ve brought you the record!"


    That cute, youthful appearance certainly belonged to Qiu Tu''s confidant, the young girl Song Qing.


    Seeing the carefree little girl, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile, and then he waved to Song Qing, "Bring it here."


    Song Qing quickly scurried over, handing over the document to Qiu Tu.


    The document was not voluminous, including one audio recording and one written material.


    Qiu Tu set the audio recording aside, then picked up the written material to take a look.


    To his discovery, it was a supplementary deposition from an interrogation¡ªadditional testimony compiled by the interrogators based on the audio and video recordings after the interrogation had concluded.


    And the person who had written the supplement was not Tan Huimin, but Li Xian.


    Possibly noticing Qiu Tu''s curiosity, Song Qing explained with her hands clasped behind her giggling, "This deposition was supplemented by Li Xian."


    "He said that since you personally arranged the interrogation yesterday, you would be very interested in it. So he worked overtime in the bureau last night, listening to the interrogation recordings to make a written version of the deposition."


    "This is for your convenience when you need to review it."


    Upon hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes shifted slightly. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Li Xian...?" Qiu Tu recalled his impression of Li Xian.


    He was a young man in his early twenties, a little over 1.7 meters tall, and very capable.


    Qiu Tu remembered that his loyalty had always been ranked among the top few among this batch of confidants.


    And... Qiu Tu also remembered that during the Sudden Attack by the United Front, Li Xian was unlucky enough to get hit by a stray bullet in the right abdomen, nearly dying, but still he fought on the front lines. (Chapter 139)


    ''Loyal... Sharp-witted... And tenacious.''


    ''A promising talent indeed.'' Find adventures on My Virtual Library Empire


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of the people he had just been considering for placements into the Intelligence Section.


    For a moment, his eyes were pensive.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was pondering how to arrange his confidants, Song Qing seemed to have heard something.

 Chapter 271 Great Evil God Zhaohui (10,000 Characters for a Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Her eyes suddenly sparkled, her ears perked up, and she stealthily moved towards the direction of the break room.


    Being a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu was now extremely sensitive. So, as soon as Song Qing made a slight movement, Qiu Tu detected it.


    It was only then that Qiu Tu remembered Tan Huimin was still bathing in the bathroom.


    The faint sound of "splash splash" water made the entire office atmosphere a bit suggestive.


    Song Qing looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of gossip, blinking her eyes and grinning mischievously like a buddy, she whispered gossiping, "Boss~ is it Secretary Tan? Have you scored?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Facing Song Qing, the loudspeaker, Qiu Tu dared not admit anything. He looked at her seriously and threatened, "There''s a confidential case, it''s not suitable to take to the Interrogation Section."


    "So I called her to my office, where I''m using water torture."


    Water torture is one of the most brutal interrogation methods in the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, so upon hearing that, Song Qing really didn''t dare to gossip anymore.


    She quickly raised her hand and said at a rapid pace, "Yes! Boss! No problem! I''ll just! Leave first!"


    After finishing, as soon as Qiu Tu nodded, she ran out of the office like an arrow released from its bow.


    Watching Song Qing''s fleeing figure, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly.


    "This treasure...."


    It had to be said that Qiu Tu was relatively tolerant towards Song Qing. This might be because... of the original interrogation quartet, Liu Fuping left, Wang Xi got caught, and now only Song Qing was left.


    This special relationship made Qiu Tu always a bit more caring towards Song Qing.


    ''It seems... it''s best to adjust Song Qing''s work too. A young girl like her should go to the Administrative Office for clerical work.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up the transcript of Zheng Tao''s interrogation by Tan Huimin from yesterday that Li Xian had prepared and began to read slowly....


    Time passed unknowingly, and the "swoosh swoosh" sound of water gradually stopped.


    The sound of slippers walking could be heard in the break room.


    Qiu Tu snapped out of the transcript, he perked up his ears and listened for a few seconds, then he heard a "thump," a dull sound.


    It was as if someone had collapsed on the bed.


    Qiu Tu''s heart tightened, then he continued to listen attentively.


    But, not knowing if something had happened, there were no more sounds coming from inside the room.


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, and in the end, he put down his pen and stood up to go to the break room.


    He pushed open the break room door, passed through the living room, and arrived at the bedroom.


    What met Qiu Tu''s eyes was Tan Huimin, who had finished her bath.


    She was not wearing any clothes, having collapsed on the bed, curled up in a ball, deeply asleep.


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    Her plump oval face was marked with exhaustion, her delicate eyebrows and eyes tightly shut. In just a few short days, her vivacity seemed to be drained away, and her pretty face was filled with gloom. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Women seem to like to separate bathing and hair washing, so even though she had finished bathing, her Young Wife with a Bun Hairstyle was still dry.


    But although her hair was dry, sleeping naked in the deep autumn season was clearly likely to catch a cold.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu walked forward and gently princess-carried the woman before him with light steps.


    The woman in her sleep struggled slightly, but Qiu Tu just whispered softly, "It''s Ah-Tao."


    The woman''s body tensed up for a moment, then relaxed slowly.


    After pulling away the blanket from beneath Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu laid her back on the bed and then covered her with a blanket.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu sighed softly, then shook his head and walked towards the bedroom door.


    However, just as he was stepping out of the bedroom,


    suddenly, a prompt flashed before his eyes.


    [Tan Huimin''s Loyalty +18]


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was taken aback, belatedly realizing something wasn''t quite right...


    -------


    It''s still 2 chapters of 10,000 words. It''s the last day of the month, begging for Monthly Tickets! We have a chance to be in the top hundred this month! Begging for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 272 Madam, Dont Look Up, Its Ah-Tao (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    During this period, Qiu Tu had become extremely thorough and clear in his understanding of his two Golden Fingers.


    [Crisis Intuition], this Golden Finger, could predict crises. He could analyze his current situation based on its changes.


    Like Qiu Tu''s recent crisis, [Promise of the Evil God].


    This crisis arose because Qiu Tu promised to figure out when Moonlight Lake would take shape for Larilo.


    If Qiu Tu failed to fulfill the promise or deceived Larilo, she would retaliate and kill Qiu Tu.


    To ultimately trigger this crisis, two elements were needed. One, Qiu Tu failed to keep his promise; two, Larilo had the means to kill Qiu Tu.


    So, when Qiu Tu casually fooled Larilo last night, making her believe that Moonlight Lake would form before she was freed, and the lake did indeed take shape before her release, the [Crisis Countdown] naturally turned into a Treasure Chest.


    To put it plainly, [Crisis Intuition] had a [prophetic nature].


    However, [Loyalty Game] was different from [Crisis Intuition].


    Loyalty Game was a very "subjective" display.


    Even if Qiu Tu treated his subordinates very well, exceedingly well¡ªif they were unaware of it, their Loyalty would not change at all.


    If Qiu Tu treated his subordinates poorly, just making empty promises and deceiving them, as long as they subjectively believed in him, their Loyalty would still increase.


    Therefore, there was a prerequisite for the change in Loyalty in the Loyalty Game: the subordinates must subjectively know everything that happened.


    Applying this prerequisite to the current situation meant: Tan Huimin must be fully aware of all Qiu Tu''s actions for her Loyalty to change.


    In other words¡ªthis woman was pretending to be asleep!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that everything that just happened was different.


    He had casually said "I''m going to take a shower," and Tan Huimin had really gone to shower; later, hearing a "bang" like a muffled sound, he thought something had happened to her, but when he checked, he found her undressed.... So, all of this was an act.


    So, was the "hunter" pretending to be the "prey"?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu became a little curious about what Tan Huimin really wanted to do.


    But he didn''t rush.


    Because... since she wanted to play the prey, it certainly wouldn''t be just this once.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu left the bedroom without any expression, even "thoughtfully" closing the bedroom door behind him.


    After that, Qiu Tu left the lounge and returned to his desk, continuing to look at the written statements from yesterday''s interrogation of Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao.


    To avoid any misrecorded content from Li Xian, Qiu Tu even took a tape recorder, playing the recording while reading along.


    About five or six minutes into reading, a "snap" was suddenly heard from the lounge, sounding like the shatter of a glass hitting the floor.


    Qiu Tu knew instantly: the hunter disguised as prey was beginning another hunt...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu calmly put down the statement and walked inside.


    Entering the bedroom, Tan Huimin''s body was again emerging from under the blanket, her heavy left breast pressing against the bedsheets, full and round.


    Her eyes were tightly shut, her face a bit flushed, her lips somewhat dry as if she had a fever; she murmured softly, "Water... water..." as she stretched her bare left arm to fumble on the bedside table.


    It seemed the water glass had fallen this way.


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu''s gaze fluctuated slightly: Feigning illness?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu did not reveal her act but played along. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He walked over, gently taking hold of Tan Huimin''s hand, and softly said, "You want water, do you?"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll get it for you."


    Tan Huimin''s hand was smooth and cool, like jade.


    "Who... who are you?" Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, Tan Huimin murmured with her eyes closed.


    Qiu Tu''s hand gently caressed the soft edge of Tan Huimin''s left breast, and then slid up her swan neck, reaching her beautiful oval face.


    Gently stroking her face, Qiu Tu softly said, "It''s Ah-Tao, Hui Min."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin seemed to suddenly become tense.


    With her eyes still closed, she fumbled and tightly grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand, then said, "Ah-Tao... Ah-Tao... leave quickly, get out of here."


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    "I know you were instructed by Secretary Bai. You don''t really want to hurt Qiu Tu."


    "Whether you do nothing or reveal all of this, Secretary Bai will kill you."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback...


    Truth be told, Qiu Tu had considered many possible objectives Tan Huimin might have for disguising herself, and the methods she might use to achieve them. But he hadn''t thought of this ¡ª because it was too simple, too direct!


    This approach was as naive as children playing house.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu almost didn''t want to continue acting with Tan Huimin. It was just too trivial.


    However, while Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    Tan Huimin''s hand that stretched out suddenly flailed wildly.


    Qiu Tu jolted, nearly jumping to his feet in fright.


    And then, while still pretending, Tan Huimin closed her eyes and said, "Ah-Tao... you''re right to escape with a weapon."


    "But you must take good care of your weapon."


    Having said that, Tan Huimin then threw herself onto Qiu Tu, starting to undo his belt.


    Qiu Tu had seen all sorts of situations.


    Hmm... Except this one.

 Chapter 272 Madam, Dont Look Up, Its Ah-Tao (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    He had originally just thought that Tan Hui Min was simply playing "sick" and "sleeping" to seek revenge for her husband.


    To his surprise, it turned out to be cosplay?!


    Who the hell could stand this?


    And just as Qiu Tu was thinking this.


    Tan Hui Min, with her eyes closed, murmured softly, "When you''re going on a long journey, in addition to weapons, you must also bring food."


    "The food must be cooked, and most importantly, it mustn''t be spoiled."


    "You''ve always been careless about this, let me taste it for you."


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hiss.


    He had wanted to refuse, but.... how could he possibly refuse?


    At this moment, Tan Hui Min opened her mouth again and asked, "Ah-Tao.... do you think you can escape?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu finally figured out what Tan Hui Min''s plan was.


    In this situation, how could he refuse anything?


    So what could Qiu Tu say?


    Of course, he just stroked Tan Hui Min''s head and said, "Don''t look back... don''t look up, madam, I am Ah-Tao, and I can escape."


    With Qiu Tu''s affirmative response, Tan Hui Min finally put her mind completely at ease.....


    Half an hour later, everything was over.


    Tan Hui Min wiped the corner of her mouth, then wrapped the blanket around herself, murmuring, "Ah-Tao, once you leave, once you leave..... I''ll be relieved."


    "You must make sure to leave safely...."


    Looking at the woman in front of him, Qiu Tu knew exactly what she meant: she was using what would happen next to keep him on the hook.


    She wanted Qiu Tu to let Zheng Tao go safely and then play poker with Qiu Tu afterward....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt it was somewhat amusing for a moment.


    Don''t judge Tan Hui Min by her weak strength and low position, for she was like a wild horse with her own convictions deep inside.


    A woman like that was much more interesting than other women and was more likely to arouse a man''s desire to conquer.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s gaze inadvertently fell upon Tan Hui Min, who had curled herself up into a ball and turned over to sleep, and then twinkled slightly....


    ''You want to play, then let''s play....''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu chuckled, picked up the chest, went straight out of the bedroom, and gently closed the door for Tan Hui Min.


    Hearing the sound of the door closing, Tan Hui Min''s body, which had been a bit rigid all along, slowly relaxed....


    .....


    It seems women are born actresses.


    Even though she obviously had Qiu Tu''s "meal", Tan Hui Min still acted as if nothing had happened.


    In the afternoon, after waking up, she naturally thanked Qiu Tu and then got back to work.


    Even when Qiu Tu intentionally let his gaze linger on her mouth several times, her expression didn''t show any change, as if... she really was asleep at the time.


    ''Is this the epitome of self-deception?'' Discover stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    Qiu Tu found it a little hard to understand women''s thought processes ¡ª they seemed especially good at deceiving themselves. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sometimes, they just need a high-sounding excuse, and it seems they can accept anything.


    So, Qiu Tu kept busy for an afternoon.


    That afternoon, within his authority, he rearranged all of his confidants.


    Since they had all reached at least the level of First Level Detective and could lead a team on their own, Qiu Tu left behind Ding Xiaoliu and about ten other confidants in the Action Division, indirectly controlling over a hundred Special Service Detectives. As for the other dozen or so confidants, they were dispersed into various sections of the Political Department.


    Among them, Li Xian and Zhu Huoyan were transferred by Qiu Tu to the "Intelligence Section"; Guard Room Detective Wang Dawei, who had defected to Qiu Tu, was promoted on the spot by Qiu Tu into the Interrogation Section; Chen Feng and Eagle were transferred by Qiu Tu to the "Inspection Department",


    As for Cao Dabiao, he was sent to the Administrative Office according to the plan Qiu Tu had for him originally. Going along with him were the young girl Song Qing and Ding Xiaoqi.


    Plus, Li Ke, the Administrative Office Detective who had always wanted to side with Qiu Tu (from Chapter 15), was enough for Cao Dabiao to carve out a niche for himself in the Administrative Office.


    Adding to that, the Monkey, Ah-Shui, Da Tou, and over a dozen other brothers who were promoted by Qiu Tu from "temporary detectives" to "Third-Level Detectives,"


    Qiu Tu''s sphere of influence stretched from the Political Department to the Administrative Office, Public Security Bureau, and several other departments.


    ```


    With the addition of the confidants of The Five Elders, he was now so influential that a mere sneeze from him would shake the Investigation Bureau to its core.


    However, although Qiu Tu''s maneuvers were significant, they paled in comparison to Tang Feifei''s bold and resolute actions.


    While Qiu Tu was busy installing his confidants, Tang Feifei was also furiously promoting her own loyalists.


    This allowed her power to swell even faster.


    Moreover, following Qiu Tu''s advice, she immediately transferred all the squads under her loyalists'' control to the Training Department under the pretext of training after placing them in the Special Service Department.


    Because of her drastic actions, the Special Service Department was at one point left with barely any usable squads, which infuriated Lin Ting to the point of almost confronting Tang Feifei directly.


    However... whether it was Tang Feifei''s strength, background, or the leverage of "The Death of Wu Zhi", it all made Lin Ting feel somewhat powerless to act against her.


    So, after stewing in frustration all afternoon, he ended up doing nothing and simply let his driver take him to Emerald Fort to indulge and unwind...


    Soon, a day had passed.


    That evening, Qiu Tu didn''t go back to his home with Fang Tangtang but returned to his own home instead...


    In the days following the United Front assassination attempt, Qiu Tu hadn''t returned home at all, leaving only a female detective in the villa to accompany Shen Lingshuang.


    Now that Qiu Tu had finished his business, of course, he should go back to check on things.


    Upon returning to his villa, Qiu Tu was greeted by Xiao Bai, whose head had grown as large as a wardrobe.


    After finally dismissing Xiao Bai, Shen Lingshuang came pouting with discontent clearly written on her face.


    She was obviously dissatisfied with Qiu Tu''s absence from home for several days.


    Qiu Tu had no other merit but thick skin. So after giving a "hehe" and a quick apology, he got past it.


    Shen Lingshuang was actually still upset at the time and didn''t want to forgive Qiu Tu. But... who could blame him for knowing her submissive nature too well.


    So after pulling her onto his lap and giving her a round of sand palm treatment, Shen Lingshuang blushed and with eyes aglitter, let Qiu Tu off the hook...


    The night passed without further words.


    The next day, the day when Yan Chen utterly lost any hope of becoming the Deputy Speaker at Moonlight Lake, had arrived.


    Qiu Tu got up early.


    After washing up, having breakfast, and chatting with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu called his driver and headed for the Investigation Bureau.


    On his way to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu rolled down the car window and gazed deeply at the giant tree phantom that spanned the sky above.


    Dots of green starlight adorned it, forming a majestic and magnificent vast tree.


    ''Fourth-order Cataclysmics... I wonder when I will reach that level.''


    ''Moreover... with Moonlight Lake taking shape, Xinjie City is probably about to be hit by a huge storm, right?''


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu contemplated this, in Eastern City, a secret base.


    Liu Xiongyuan, dressed in the Bureau Chief''s uniform, paced back and forth in front of several individuals wearing white lab coats.


    The group in white coats looked somewhat like chemists from before the Era of Disaster.


    But judging from the various instruments and tools they were fiddling with, they seemed more akin to pharmacists like Shen Lingshuang.


    At this moment, they were gathered around a medium-sized device, engaged in intense discussion.


    "To fully form Moonlight Lake, we must use the ''Storm Skull'' to concentrate the Power of Laws brought by Yan Chen into Moonlight Lake!"


    "As for other methods, I think they are all somewhat lacking."


    "I think we could use a potion. Pouring a ''Gathering Spirit'' type of potion into the core of Moonlight Lake would naturally attract all the Laws and Cataclysmic Powers within its range."


    "By then, Moonlight Lake, having absorbed such immense power, would take shape earlier."


    "I don''t think that will work..."


    They discussed their diverse opinions for several hours like this.


    Eventually, just as Liu Xiongyuan''s patience was nearly worn thin, a detailed action plan was handed to him.


    With the plan in hand, Liu Xiongyuan finally relaxed.


    He carefully reviewed the entire plan and, after ensuring everything was within his capabilities, he thanked the individuals in white coats and then hurriedly left the secret base to commence accelerating the congealment of Moonlight Lake!


    ------

 Chapter 273 The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ....


    Meanwhile, as Liu Xiongyuan initiated his actions and began to catalyze Moonlight Lake,


    Qiu Tu also arrived at the Investigation Bureau.


    The current Qiu Tu and the one who first came to the Investigation Bureau were in completely different states.


    His neat black investigator''s uniform now bore the insignia of three bars and one flower on his shoulders; division heads and agents along the way all stood to salute him.


    Wherever he went, Qiu Tu began to enjoy the attention and deference befitting a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau.


    Secretary Tan Huimin was obviously more diligent today. She waited early in the parking lot, and as soon as Qiu Tu''s car stopped, she promptly came forward to open the door for him.


    After picking up Qiu Tu, she took the initiative to lead the way elegantly, all the while briefing Qiu Tu on the day''s schedule and arrangements.


    She epitomized the level of excellence expected of a secretary.


    Only, perhaps because her attire was too glamorous today¡ªnot only had she dressed up, but she also wore a light makeup and applied bright red lipstick¡ª


    every time his gaze fell upon her seductive lips, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scene where she swallowed his "provision" from the day before.


    ''I''m still influenced by this woman¡­''


    While contemplating that beauty was like a double-edged sword, Qiu Tu joined Secretary Tan in the elevator and went upstairs.


    Given Qiu Tu''s current status, no one of equal or lesser rank would take the initiative to ride the elevator with him. Therefore, the spacious elevator contained only Qiu Tu and Secretary Tan.


    Perhaps perceiving Qiu Tu''s unusual gaze, Secretary Tan took the initiative to ask, "Chief, why do you keep looking at my mouth?"


    With that, she extended her index finger and gently pressed her delicate lips, inquiring, "Is my lipstick smeared by accident?"


    Qiu Tu:¡­.


    Qiu Tu was 99% certain that this woman was trying to seduce him.


    Well, the remaining 1% was wondering if she was hinting at wanting to have a quick encounter right there in the elevator!


    Yesterday, although Secretary Tan acted convincingly, she was clearly sober. Being so, she must be aware of what happened between them.


    If she was behaving like this now, she was no doubt attempting seduction.


    As Qiu Tu was thinking this, Secretary Tan spoke up.


    In a soft voice, she said, "Yesterday afternoon, when I was sleeping, I felt like I had a long dream. I dreamed that Ah-Tao had left Xinjie City."


    "That was the most comfortable sleep I''ve had in recent days."


    "I wonder when that will become a reality."


    "By then, I guess my sleep will be even more comfortable."


    Qiu Tu:¡­.


    Although Secretary Tan spoke vaguely, she was actually reminding Qiu Tu to fulfill his "promise."


    And she continued to tempt Qiu Tu with promises¡ªthe "comfort" she referred to was likely not about how comfortably she slept, but rather how comfortable it would be to sleep with her, right?


    However, for some reason, Qiu Tu, who had been eager a moment earlier, suddenly cooled down.


    Although Secretary Tan was indeed tempting, Qiu Tu had his own principles about certain matters.


    Oh, it wasn''t that those who sided with an Evil God must die, but rather... if they are enemies, they must be eliminated without leaving future troubles!


    Even though Zheng Tao might not have intentionally opposed him and might have many compelling reasons,


    Qiu Tu never spared in contemplating the most venomous perspective of a person.


    ¡ªZheng Tao had offended him. Even if he was prepared to forgive Zheng Tao from the bottom of his heart, would Zheng Tao truly believe it?


    And having delivered his wife right to Qiu Tu''s lips¡ªalthough he hadn''t completely devoured her but had already tasted her¡ªwould Zheng Tao genuinely be indifferent?


    Qiu Tu, if placed in that situation, certainly would not simply put aside such animosity.


    He would certainly bear the grudge, gather his strength, and find satisfaction in eventually killing his enemy.


    Therefore, although Secretary Tan had good intentions, what she didn''t know was that from the moment she tasted Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s fate was truly sealed¡­.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu showed nothing on his face.


    He joked, "Director Zheng will certainly be safe. It''s just that Secretary Tan may need to dream a few more times."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s overt flirtation, Secretary Tan''s expression tensed for a moment and her hand involuntarily tightened into a fist, but she soon returned to normal.


    She was intent on probing further, but at that moment¡ª


    With a "ding," they arrived at the ninth floor.


    Qiu Tu stepped out of the elevator, and seeing this, Secretary Tan quickly followed.


    Arriving at the office, Qiu Tu soon immersed himself in a day''s work.


    As the vice-minister of the Political Department, especially one with extensive authority, Qiu Tu had a lot of work that was also highly valuable. Find exclusive stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    Especially now that he had officially taken over the intelligence department, the Intelligence Section began delivering daily important intelligence summaries, allowing him to understand comprehensively the events occurring in Xinjie City each day. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just like yesterday, perhaps due to changes in Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, The military dispatched a battalion to be stationed around Garden Villa.


    Like the Security Department, which had recently been actively planting agents within the United Front.


    Like City Hall, which had successfully partnered with a wealthy Eastern City businessman yesterday to handle the redevelopment of an abandoned area of the city.


    The overall terms were not particularly generous; the businessman would probably not make much profit through normal operations.


    However, outside of this partnership, Commissioner Jiang from City Hall also gave the nod to allot a plot near Xinjie''s east gate to that wealthy businessman.

 Chapter 273 The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Aside from local intelligence in Xinjie City, the information about Moonlight Lake that Qiu Tu had been paying special attention to also arrived.


    According to the intelligence reports,


    the place where Moonlight Lake was about to emerge was actually a depression located between Xinjie City and Eastern City. Read exclusive adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    It was originally a small Cataclysm Forest.


    But years ago, due to the influence of a clash between two Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea, the ground collapsed in the middle of the forest, trees fell, and a 1.52-square-kilometer depression was formed.


    At first, no one cared about this depression. After all, in this age of Cataclysm, any sort of phenomenon could occur, and the three major power institutions had become accustomed to oddities.


    However, over time, things began to change.


    Just over a year ago, the forest would suddenly be enveloped in thick fog every night.


    The fog was impervious to wind and would not dissipate with rain, yet it receded every time the skies cleared.


    The Political Department and Security Department, having learned about this phenomenon from passersby, started regular observations and investigations.


    Gradually, they discovered strange changes occurring in the corresponding area of the Boundless Heart Sea¡ªa small tornado continued to swirl specifically in this region of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    After reporting to the Sanctuary, experts were specially dispatched to conduct research and analysis. They ultimately concluded that a Moonlight Lake was about to be formed there.


    According to the experts, the battle between the two Evil Gods years ago might have disrupted the Cataclysmic Power in this area.


    The injury of the Evil Gods, shedding a significant amount of "Divine Blood," coincidentally "activated" the Cataclysmic Powers in these areas.


    Thus, with a large amount of "Divine Blood" as the core, and the "activated" Cataclysmic Power as the force, a Cataclysm Storm began to form here.


    The Cataclysm Storm would engulf the surrounding Cataclysmic Power, making the power in this area more and more concentrated.


    It would undergo a qualitative change with the "Divine Blood," eventually producing the Cataclysmic Material¡ªTears of Moonlight.


    The expert who came for the research was clearly very experienced; after inspecting the depression and the aftermath of the battle between the Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea, he also provided his estimate of the yield of the Moonlight Lake: 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suffice to create 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion.


    This astounding treasury shocked the military and Investigation Bureau in both Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    Therefore, over the past six months, four departments have been locked in a political chess game over this Moonlight Lake, ultimately reaching a delicate balance.


    The Investigation Bureau of Eastern City and the military of Xinjie City could each claim roughly 30% of the shares of Moonlight Lake; while the Investigation Bureau of Xinjie City and the military of Eastern City would each take 20%.


    Because of the ongoing power struggle, Yan Chen had deployed almost all the elite detectives trained by the Special Service Department over the past year.


    This is also an important reason for the current weakened strength of the Special Service Department.


    Now, due to Yan Chen''s sudden promotion, the military of Xinjie City had no choice but to start mobilizing personnel to protect Yan Chen.


    This led to a substantial weakening of Xinjie City''s military presence in the Moonlight Lake area. Hence, Eastern City has now completely overwhelmed Xinjie City.


    It''s said that although General Ye has not openly cursed Yan Chen in the past two days, his complexion has been constantly sour.


    After reading through all the reports on Moonlight Lake, Qiu Tu had a general understanding of the current intelligence on Moonlight Lake.


    He remembered discussing this with Tang Feifei.


    All the power departments actually had missions and requirements to collect Cataclysmic Materials in the Planning Area.


    Each year, depending on the amount of Cataclysmic Material submitted, the Sanctuary would allocate different ratings.


    Promotions above the Deputy Director level had a lot to do with this rating, even surpassing the evaluation of daily duties.


    This is one of the main reasons why various forces were tempted by such a large Moonlight Lake when it was discovered.


    After reviewing all the data, Qiu Tu had a comprehensive understanding of the Moonlight Lake.


    He picked up the tea brewed by Tan Huimin, took a gentle sip, and then walked to the window.


    It might have been a coincidence, but the window of Qiu Tu''s office faced directly towards the location of the depression.


    Qiu Tu stood by the window, quietly looking out for a while. In the end, he still took out his communicator and made two phone calls¡­


    The festivity surrounding Moonlight Lake had been targeted by various powers as early as six months ago, and it was already completely divided by several heavyweights. Thus, it was certain that he''d be unable to intervene and snatch any benefits now.


    But this didn''t mean that he couldn''t reap something indirectly¡­


    Especially when the United Front was very likely to cause trouble.


    ¡­


    Day turned to night quickly.


    Nighttime. The region between Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    The outskirts of the forest, recently renamed from "Nameless Forest" to "Moonlight Forest" over the past six months, where makeshift barracks had been constructed.


    On a deep autumn night, leaves withered and fell. Under the azure moonlight, one could clearly see squads of fully armed soldiers and Special Service Detectives patrolling through the woods.


    They were obviously the elite of various cities, not only robust in physique but also exceptional in demeanor.


    Armed with rifles, their boots crunched on fallen leaves with a "crackling" sound.


    This was another peaceful night over half a year.


    Hence, the patrolling soldiers and detectives weren''t particularly vigilant.


    After all, it had been like this every night for the past six months; they were long accustomed to it...


    But on this ordinary yet extraordinary night, everything seemed to have changed.


    Initially, it was just a faint fog spreading as usual.

 Chapter 273 The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The fog seemed to emerge from beneath the ground, spreading silently throughout the entire forest.


    Then the fog grew thicker and damper.


    The soldiers and detectives, already accustomed to this change, withdrew from the forest in line with their usual experience, standing outside the forest and observing in silence.


    Based on previous experiences, they estimated that the fog would reach its peak density around 12 o''clock, and then it would start to wane.


    By around 5 in the morning, it would have completely dissipated.


    Having been through this process for half a year, they didn''t pay much attention to it.


    Like in the southern part of the forest controlled by Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, a few detectives from the Special Service Department were even smoking and chatting casually.


    "Old Zhang, how long has it been since you were home?"


    "Sigh, almost a month. My shift''s about to end. When I get back, I can have a good rest."


    "That''s nice. I just came here last week for my shift, probably have another three weeks to go."


    Hearing his companion''s words, Old Zhang asked, "Huh? You just got here last week? Anything interesting happen recently?"


    Hearing Old Zhang''s question, the detective chuckled and said, "Anything interesting? Let me tell you, you''ve missed out this past month on duty. The Investigation Bureau has been bustling like we''re in a blockbuster movie, with one act after another. It was especially thrilling." Continue your adventure at My Virtual Library Empire S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Curious upon hearing this, Old Zhang went, "Oh?" and then as if thinking of something, he asked, "It wouldn''t be something Deputy Chief Qiu cooked up, would it?"


    "He''s really something. He shot up the ranks in just half a month, shocking us all."


    At these words, his companion smiled mysteriously, "Deputy Chief Qiu? Hehe¡­ He''s no longer a deputy chief now."


    And while they were talking...


    Suddenly... two brilliant stars lit up the pitch-black sky.


    One star was extremely bright, rivaling the Polaris from Qiu Tu''s previous life, while the other, though fainter, was crystal clear.


    Since the two stars appeared out of nowhere, Old Zhang and his companion were suddenly distracted from their conversation.


    They couldn''t help but look up to see what was happening.


    At that moment, a dazzling silver pillar of light suddenly appeared between the two stars!


    The next second, the pillar of light plummeted from the heavens, crashing directly into the center of Moonlight Forest!


    In that instant, the valley floor trembled slightly, and an invisible energy surged through the air, bringing with it gusts of wind.


    The silver fog was blasted into the air, then gathered above the forest, condensed, and rose until it formed a silver giant dragon spiraling in the sky.


    Seeing this, both Old Zhang and his companion were shocked!


    Their mouths slowly opened in awe, and their cigarettes fell to the ground unnoticed, clearly unaware of what had happened!


    But the transformation did not stop because of their astonishment!


    The silver-white foggy giant dragon circled in the sky for a few seconds, roared towards the heavens, and then suddenly plummeted straight into the central depression of Moonlight Forest!


    The very next second, waves of silver-white light emanated from the bottom of the lake.


    The light seemed to possess a magical power, appearing out of nowhere, growing from nothing to something, and spreading rapidly.


    Soon, the light filled the entire depression!


    The next second, the light solidified!


    Accompanied by the "whooshing" sound of rushing water, a lake as smooth and clear as a mirror, filled with silver-white water, was born out of thin air!


    A breeze swept across, creating ripples on the lake surface, with silver ripples shimmering in the moonlight, like countless stars jumping in the water!


    Drawing the attention of various forces from Xinjie City, Eastern City, the United Front, and Sanctuaries alike, and containing 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, capable of producing 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion, Moonlight Lake¡­. was officially born!


    -------

 Chapter 274 Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    At this moment, Old Zhang and his companions were scared stiff!


    Even though they had already known from their superior when they received the mission that they were guarding and patrolling a supernatural lake, a supernatural forest.


    But what one hears and what one sees for oneself are somewhat different.


    Seeing the brilliant, silver-white starlight falling from the sky, exploding over the entire forest; seeing the pervasive mist turn into a white dragon coiling up into the sky!


    Hearing the sudden sound of "gurgle gurgle" of water in the dried-up hollow at the center of the forest, feeling the sudden abundant presence of life, how could they not know that the supernatural lake spoken of by their superior had been born!


    Thus, they widened their eyes, stared dumbfounded for a few seconds, then turned and ran towards the back to report the situation!


    Soon, the quiet campsite was filled with the "rustle rustle" of whispered talking and the sounds of dressing.


    Before long, more and more shouting and rallying calls resounded over the campsite of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Squads of Special Service Detectives promptly arrived at the ready, led by a First Level Detective captain.


    However, while the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was quick, the other three factions were not slow. Or perhaps... even faster.


    Especially the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, which had already received Liu Xiongyuan''s signal. They had made their preparations early in the evening.


    Therefore, from the moment the starlight landed, they headed straight for the Moonlight Forest. This also made them one of the factions to arrive at Moonlight Lake...


    "Quick, quick, quick!"


    "This way! This way!"


    Accompanied by quiet commands in the dark forest, soon, the squad from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau arrived at Moonlight Lake!


    By this time, the newly formed Moonlight Lake lay quietly flat in the depression at the center of the Moonlight Forest.


    The lake water flowed quietly, like a silvery mirror, reflecting the Blue Moon in the night sky, creating a stark contrast with the pitch-black Moonlight Forest under the night''s veil.


    "Is this Moonlight Lake? It''s magical..."


    The commanding tall squad leader from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau gazed at the sacred lake before him, his face filled with joy and astonishment.


    He gestured with his hands for his subordinates to stay calm, and then he himself began walking slowly towards Moonlight Lake.


    It could have been an illusion, but Moonlight Lake seemed to be "blooming" at that moment!


    Every ripple on its calm surface brought up a whiff of mist, and this mist seemed imbued with a powerful life force; as soon as it floated to the vicinity of Moonlight Lake, it instantly made the plants it touched burst into unprecedented vitality.


    Seeing this, the lead tall squad leader purposefully walked through a strand of mist, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath!


    A faint fragrance lingered in his nostrils; he felt as though ancient trees were bursting into new greenery, and his whole body was extremely invigorated! S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Amazing!'' he exclaimed inwardly, but knowing the urgency of the night and the weight of the mission, he waved his hand to the back and commanded in a low voice, "Quick, quick! Set up the equipment now!"


    Hearing the squad leader''s words, the detectives, light on their feet and adept in their movements, ran over with the equipment and began to set it up.


    Their equipment resembled water pumps, but had undergone some special modifications.


    Such as adding a filtration device; connecting the water outlet to several large drums for easy transportation; and... the machine also had an external diesel generator, among other things. Experience tales with My Virtual Library Empire


    These dozen or so detectives had clearly rehearsed many times before, so it took them only a minute to assemble the machine.


    Then, under the command of the towering squad leader, two detectives threw the water pumping tube into Moonlight Lake!


    Meanwhile, several other detectives started pouring diesel into the generator and then started the machine.


    "Chug chug chug chug!" Along with the roar of the water pump, the pump began to operate furiously!


    Moonlight Lake contained not only Tears of Moonlight, but also a lot of pure water condensed from the air. The filtration system was meant to filter out the pure water, then extract the Tears of Moonlight!


    Soon... "drip... drip... splash... splash..."


    The plastic barrels started filling up with more and more filtered Tears of Moonlight.


    The Tears of Moonlight were just like the small bottle Qiu Tu had once obtained; they were silvery and luminous like mercury, shimmering as if moonlight were flowing through them.


    Seeing this scene, the tall squad leader finally let out a sigh of relief¡ªhis vanguard unit had at least successfully completed their mission.


    This placed the Eastern City Investigation Bureau at the forefront among the four major forces.


    They had secured a considerable amount of time to extract the Cataclysmic Material!


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the west side of Moonlight Forest was filled with the clamor of footsteps.


    The tall squad leader was taken aback for a moment, somewhat in disbelief as he looked towards that direction.


    What he saw was that several squads from the Xinjie City Military Department had also arrived at the lake''s edge with equipment.


    And it was clear they were also well-prepared in advance; as soon as they reached the lake, they immediately began to assemble their equipment and started extracting the Tears of Moonlight.


    Altogether, they were only about 3 minutes slower than the Eastern City Investigation Bureau.


    ''How is this possible!'' the tall squad leader thought incredulously.


    After all, during this period, the four major forces had a thorough understanding of each other.


    Although they performed patrols at night, because the formation of Moonlight Lake was still a while off, most were just going through the motions.


    The night patrols usually comprised no more than 5-10 people. The rest of the detectives and soldiers were normally sleeping and resting.


    As for the equipment, some had not brought it along, while others were stored in the camp''s secret storerooms, making retrieval quite troublesome.

 Chapter 274 Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Therefore, if the Xinjie City Military Department was only three minutes slower than them, it means they must have received the news early and made preparations.


    Explore stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    ''Did the Bureau Chief strike a deal with them? Or... is there a mole?!''


    Thinking this, the tall section chief''s gaze turned sharp.


    He squinted his eyes, looking towards the Xinjie City Military Department''s vanguard squad with a bit of danger, feeling an impulse to do something...


    Just at that moment, the sound of rustling footsteps erupted from both the east and west sides of the dark forest.


    Soon, from behind the tall section chief and from behind the Xinjie City Military Department''s squad, figures from large units appeared.


    The reinforcements had arrived.


    Quickly, key positions along the shore and in the surrounding forest were occupied by the two forces.


    Because the numbers and equipment of both sides were not significantly different, they were very restrained and only began to be wary of each other.


    Seeing this, the tall section chief no longer allowed his thoughts to wander but instead focused on commanding his men to extract Tears of Moonlight.


    But... the matter of why the Xinjie City Military Department arrived so quickly still gnawed at his mind like a parasite...


    ''Who could have done it...?''


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Xinjie City, 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei''s office.


    Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, wearing uniforms and holding red wine, stood by the window, gazing in the direction of Moonlight Forest and chatting leisurely.


    Qiu Tu took a sip of red wine and said softly, "I told the military about Moonlight Lake''s early condensation. Aren''t you angry?" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having held power for just a few days, Tang Feifei''s aura had become even more refined and profound.


    Her eyes flickered with a yellow glow as she stared distantly and said calmly, "There''s nothing to be angry about."


    She explained understandingly, "This time, our goal is very clear, which is to make Yan Chen lose face with the higher-ups."


    "If both the Xinjie City Military Department and the Investigation Bureau gain no benefits from the emergence of Moonlight Lake..."


    "Then the authorities will think that Xinjie is inferior to Eastern City."


    "Since Eastern City was established five or six years earlier and has capable figures like Liu Xiongyuan anchoring it, outshining Xinjie is somewhat justifiable."


    "Yan Chen''s loss won''t be too great."


    "However, now that the military has joined in on this grand event and gained huge benefits, what will be highlighted is Yan Chen''s incompetence and shortsightedness."


    "In this way, he can forget about being the Deputy Speaker; in fact, once he comes out, he''ll probably be directly criticized and dealt with by the authorities."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s analysis, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded in agreement, then endorsed, "Exactly. The reason I told the military about this was, in fact, for the sake of contrast."


    "Only by comparing with the successful can we see Yan Chen''s failures."


    "And..." Pausing, Qiu Tu continued, "after all, we are people of Xinjie."


    "Whether it''s for battle or something else, we still need to strive for benefits for Xinjie when we can."


    "Moonlight Lake''s massive benefits, no matter which faction of Xinjie City obtains them, will actually bring considerable aid and influence to Xinjie City."


    "At least... it can give birth to a few more Cataclysmics."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei slightly nodded, indicating her agreement.


    Qiu Tu, looking at Tang Feifei''s serene profile, turned his gaze toward the distance.


    In fact... there was one more crucial point he hadn''t mentioned.


    He revealed the information about Moonlight Lake to the military not just because of the two reasons just discussed.


    Don''t forget that he is not only the Deputy Director of the Political Department at the Investigation Bureau but also a legitimate Captain in the military.


    Although he too was somewhat unclear as to which side he truly belonged to, it didn''t matter... as long as he had a position¡ªthis also served as a safety net for him.


    After all, climbing up the ranks step by step, he might indeed face something in the future that he couldn''t handle, and then he could simply switch allegiance.


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was contemplating, Tang Feifei gazed at the distant scenery and then said softly, "Actually, the most important reason I''m not angry is that, after you called the military, you immediately phoned me."


    Tang Feifei said with a chill, "This shows that you don''t regard me merely as a boss or a regular partner."


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Of course, I wouldn''t just see you as a boss or a regular partner."


    "We are comrades-at-arms."


    "And... you are also my Martial Techniques instructor."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ambiguous statement, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed, suggesting something, "Indeed. We are comrades-at-arms..."


    After speaking, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu like a leopardess eying her prey, the yellow glow in her eyes twinkling.


    Her cheeks were flushed from the wine, and coupled with her untamed aura, she seemed ready to engage in a lengthy battle with Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu hastily coughed and reminded, "Bureau Chief. I don''t mind, but... tonight''s operation still needs your remote command."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s eyes regained their clarity. She took another sip of wine and looked into the distance again.


    Afterward, she asked softly, "Are you sure something will definitely happen tonight?"


    Qiu Tu replied softly, "90% sure."


    Tang Feifei, puzzled, asked, "Why are you so certain?"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Intelligence and analysis."


    "All of the enemy''s habits and methods are hidden in the intelligence they inadvertently reveal."


    "As long as we gather enough intelligence, make enough analysis, and thoroughly understand the enemy, we can predict the enemy''s every move."

 Chapter 274 Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Qiu Tu commented, "Compared to the Sanctuary Force, anti-government armed forces like the United Front obviously need Cataclysmic Material and Cataclysmic Awakening Potion even more."


    "That''s why they''ve always had a huge interest in Moonlight Lake."


    "In order to take over Moonlight Lake, they''ve assembled the forces of three divisions in the Disaster Zone recently, moving rapidly towards Moonlight Lake."


    "The reason Liu Xiongyuan has been so quick to harness Moonlight Lake is partly due to the pressure from them."


    "As long as Moonlight Lake forms quickly and gets depleted swiftly, the United Front will lose its target and naturally retreat."


    "But, if we know this, the United Front surely knows it too."


    "So, they will stop at nothing to interrupt the process of us extracting Tears of Moonlight."


    Tang Feifei nodded thoughtfully and then said, "I understand what you''re saying, but how can you guess the methods they''ll use?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile, and then he said lightly, "Because... if I were them, I would certainly do the same."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a deep look, then raised her eyes towards the direction of Moonlight Forest.


    After a pause, she slowly said, "Since you''re such a master strategist, I''ll make you a promise as well."


    "If I really do make a great achievement this time, once I become the Bureau Chief, I will definitely..."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei paused, then continued, "Make you the Bureau Chief''s lover."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei with a face full of question marks.


    Then he saw the corners of Tang Feifei''s mouth curl up into a smile, clearly, she was joking, trying to tease Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling sentimental: the former Tang Feifei never joked, and now she had started teasing him.


    His "essence" really did have the power to change people!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smugly took a sip of his drink, planning to find time to give Tang Feifei more of his essence and change her aloof temperament.


    ...


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were exchanging playful barbs.


    The situation in Moonlight Forest was also changing continuously.


    After a half-hour delay, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the Eastern City Military Department finally arrived at Moonlight Lake, albeit belatedly. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, they were faced with two major forces that had already taken over the entire lake.


    They were eager to negotiate, but the two forces were adamant: they would only clear the path if they received orders from either Director Liu or General Ye.


    So they were asked to have the highest official in their organizations contact Director Liu or General Ye.


    Such a request wasn''t excessive. In the face of significant issues, the various departments often handled things this way.


    But... it was now deep into the night and with Moonlight Lake having just formed, time equaled life; every minute delayed meant countless Tears of Moonlight were extracted by the two forces.


    Therefore, both the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the Eastern City Military Department were as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    Unwilling as they were, they had no choice but to urgently contact their department''s highest officials.


    The Eastern City Military Department still had a chance, with their highest official present, but the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was in trouble: Yan Chen was in the middle of a promotion, and they simply couldn''t reach him.


    So, they could only call Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, hoping he could coordinate things.


    But Lin Ting was two ranks below Liu Xiongyuan, far inferior both in seniority and position, and had no say in the matter.


    He was keen to try contacting Tang Feifei, but the logic was the same: a big shot like Liu Xiongyuan might give some face to peers, but even if Tang Feifei approached Liu Xiongyuan, it would be of little use.


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    And just as everything was at a stalemate, unknown to the four major forces, a group of people in black was silently approaching the Moonlight Forest¡­


    -------


    Still two chapters in 10,000 words, ha! A new month, asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 275 Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    This squad had over thirty members. They wore black balaclava hats on their heads, complete black combat uniforms, and their faces were smeared with camouflage paint.


    Upon closer inspection, one would find a small red "X" marked on their right chest. This proved their identity¡ªthey were the elite of the United Front. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And so, under the cover of night, this elite squad moved lightly, skillfully shuttling through the wilderness, towards Moonlight Forest.


    They seemed to become one with the wild grass and trees all around, further aided by the chaos following the premature emergence of Moonlight Lake and the disarray among the four major organizations, so much so that they reached a small hill near Moonlight Forest without being detected by anyone.


    Once they reached the high point of the hill, the leader signaled for concealment to the members behind him.


    He himself then lay on the ground and pulled out night vision binoculars to observe Moonlight Forest.


    At this moment, Moonlight Forest was bustling with activity.


    The Investigation Bureau of Eastern City and Xinjie City Military Department, thanks to their early advantage, firmly occupied the largest area of Moonlight Lake, setting up several water pumps to extract "Tears of Moonlight" from the lake.


    It seemed that the Eastern City Military Department had come to an agreement with Liu Xiongyuan, hence also occupying a small area and beginning to set up their equipment.


    Among the four powers, only the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau had not yet made a move.


    Director Lin Ting of the Special Service Department, who had already rushed over, was negotiating loudly with the other three parties.


    The detectives of the Special Service Department were already lined up, guns at the ready, making threatening gestures.


    But possibly one of the agreements reached between Liu Xiongyuan and the Eastern City Military Department was to withstand the pressure from the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    So without the need for the Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Xinjie City Military Department to act, the Eastern City Military Department had already deployed several middle squads to block the Special Service Detectives from Xinjie City.


    Both sides faced each other with guns, neither daring to fire easily, merely showing their stance to the other.


    And it was precisely because of this standoff between the four parties that the reinforcements guarding and isolating on the outside of Moonlight Forest were being continuously pulled in, which in turn made the defenses outside of Moonlight Forest increasingly lax.


    This provided an opportune moment for the elite squad of the United Front. Explore more stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    After assessing the situation on the field, the United Front leader murmured, "The defenses on the south and north are both loose. We can sneak in quietly."


    With that, he raised his hand, licked his finger, and held it up to the air to feel the wind.


    "The wind is from the south tonight."


    "We enter from the south."


    After speaking, he turned to look at the United Front members behind him and said, "Are the materials and equipment ready?"


    "We only have one chance."


    Hearing their leader''s words, all the elites on the scene nodded their heads in unison and silently.


    They had a determined gaze, as though they were preparing for an important mission.


    "Move out!" After whispering the command, the leader rose from the ground, crouching low, and led the team of elites towards the south.


    The southern guard was manned by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, whose forces had been greatly drawn away because of the standoff at Moonlight Lake, leaving it particularly vulnerable at this time.


    Moreover, the situation had arisen so suddenly that no preemptive plans had been made, so the United Front squad effortlessly entered Moonlight Forest after quietly neutralizing a few sentries.


    Stepping on the thick layer of fallen leaves in Moonlight Forest, the leader quietly arranged for his men, "We''ll spread out and set up, trying not to attract official attention."


    "Afterward, follow my command to act together."


    "Yes! Yes! Major!" the other elites responded in unison after hearing their leader''s arrangement.


    Their mission tonight did not seem to be a frontal struggle for Moonlight Lake, nor to steal the "Tears of Moonlight" bottled by the four powers.


    Instead, they had other plans.


    They scattered throughout Moonlight Forest, then poured out thick black liquid from containers in their backpacks onto the fallen leaves.


    After emptying one container, they moved to another spot to continue.


    Soon, the southern area was covered with the thick black liquid.


    The black liquid carried a strong odor that, when blown by the wind from the south, went unnoticed by those on guard outside by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, but the four powers standing off at Moonlight Lake seemed to vaguely catch the scent.


    Director Lin Ting, who was in the midst of angrily rebuking the other three parties for not keeping their promises, was the first to sense something was wrong.


    "What is this smell?"


    Smelling the pungent scent, Lin Ting''s brows furrowed deeply, and he turned his head to look in the direction they had come from.


    At this time, the other powers also seemed to have caught onto the scent.


    "What''s this stench so unpleasant?"


    "What is this smell? Why does it stink?"


    As more and more people began to notice the odor,


    the driver who had been following Lin Ting seemed to suddenly realize something. He looked up abruptly, his face stricken with terror, and said in a low voice, "Chief! It''s gasoline! Gasoline!"


    Hearing the driver''s warning, Lin Ting''s realization struck hard!


    Gasoline! Why would there be gasoline in Moonlight Forest?!


    Thinking this, he abruptly looked up as if struck by a thought, then cast his eyes on the dry trees and down at the thick layer of fallen leaves beneath his feet.


    It was late fall now.


    The leaves had fallen completely and were baked dry by the hot autumn sun, devoid of any moisture!


    What would happen in a forest full of fallen leaves and deadwood if they caught fire from gasoline?


    In that moment, Lin Ting''s face turned ashen!


    A premonition of doom crept into his heart!


    And just then, suddenly, a red signal flare exploded above the dark southern edge of Moonlight Forest!

 Chapter 275 Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The signal flare was like flipping a switch! The next second, clusters of flames burst forth in the dark jungle.


    Fueled by gasoline and at the upwind location, the fire took advantage of the wind. In just a few short seconds, the flames connected into a sheet, scorching leaves and dead trees, spreading rapidly toward Moonlight Forest like a fire dragon!


    In the Planning Area, there were few cars, so most of the soldiers and agents had never come into contact with gasoline. That''s why they hadn''t recognized the black liquid at first.


    But... fire is an instinctual fear etched into the DNA of all living creatures!


    So, when they saw the fire dragon, seemingly alive, rising and leaping among the dead wood and leaves, rapidly spreading through Moonlight Forest with a devouring ferocity, they became afraid!


    "Forest fire! It''s a forest fire! Run! Run!"


    The soldiers and agents who had experienced the terror of a forest fire immediately panicked.


    While the forces from Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Xinjie City Military Department could somewhat contain their subordinates'' panic, those from Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and Eastern City Military Department were not as easily controlled!


    Seeing the spreading fire, the well-behaved soldiers and agents were shivering with fear, while those who were not as disciplined had already started running to either side, trying to escape Moonlight Forest!


    At this moment, Lin Ting looked at the spreading fire with a face ashen with rage. He cursed, "Damn it! United Front! It must be the United Front!" S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Those rats must have seen that they couldn''t get to Moonlight Lake, so they decided to just destroy it!"


    Although his training wasn''t the best, he still was a senior official of the Investigation Bureau, with a few tricks up his sleeve.


    So, even in this crisis, he didn''t panic. Instead, he drew his gun and roared at the agents around him, "Chop down trees for me!"


    "Chop down trees! Clear a safe zone!"


    "As long as there are no dead trees or leaves, the fire won''t be able to spread over!"


    His command was correct, but the problem was... All four forces had come to extract Tears of Moonlight, who would carry an axe to chop trees!


    So, his assistant looked at him with eyes almost in tears and said, "Chief! We don''t have the tools! No tools!" Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    Hearing the assistant''s words, Lin Ting also realized this point.


    His face still ashen, he watched the spreading flames, anxiously thinking of other strategies.


    Meanwhile, the leaders of the other three factions were also quickly discussing whether to retreat or to stay.


    Both retreating and staying had their pros and cons.


    Retreating would mean there would likely be no casualties due to the ample time. However, the downside was also clear: Tears of Moonlight are Cataclysmic Materials that cannot withstand burning or smoke.


    If they were to retreat, many of the Tears of Moonlight could be destroyed.


    Staying, on the other hand, may save the Tears of Moonlight, but the risk of casualties would be completely uncontrollable.


    Furthermore, it was very possible that the forest fire would become too large, leading to heavy casualties, and in the end, the Tears of Moonlight might still not be preserved.


    With these thoughts in mind, having consulted with each other, the leaders quickly leaned toward a decision: to retreat!


    After all, retreating was the safest option, and besides... it was the southern region, under the jurisdiction of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, that the United Front had infiltrated.


    If they had to go to trial at the Sanctuary, it would be Xinjie City Investigation Bureau taking the blame; they saw no need to risk themselves for the sake of claiming credit.


    With that in mind, the leaders of the three forces made eye contact and started instructing their agents to throw all the collected "Tears of Moonlight," Cataclysmic Material and containers alike, into Moonlight Lake.


    Although the "Tears of Moonlight" in the lake might be scorched and contaminated by flames, the water in the lake could effectively protect this packaged "Tears of Moonlight"!


    After the forest fire was extinguished, they could come back and retrieve the "Tears of Moonlight."


    And just as the leaders of the other three major forces were making their critical decision...


    Suddenly.....


    "Ring ring ring!"


    The clear sound of ringing echoed by the shores of Moonlight Lake.


    It was the sound of a communicator.


    Everyone''s gaze couldn''t help but drift over.


    Then they saw a man over two meters tall, like an iron tower, who was, astonishingly, holding a communicator and taking a call at this crucial moment.


    Lin Ting had clearly heard the ringing too. He turned his head and glared fiercely at the man, then rebuked, "What''s the time for? Still making calls!"


    No sooner had he finished speaking did he feel something was off.


    Because... this place was between Eastern City and Xinjie, where communication signals didn''t reach. How could a regular call come in!?


    Unless it was... a specially made communicator and a special direct line!


    With this thought, he couldn''t help but look toward the towering man.


    At this point, his assistant hurried forward and whispered, "Chief, that agent''s name is Ah-Tai. It seems he''s a confidant of Deputy Director Qiu Tu."


    Hearing the assistant''s words, Lin Ting''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    Qiu Tu?


    Since when did he have the authority to use specially made communicators and special direct lines?


    ''There must be more to this!''


    As he was thinking this, Ah-Tai, under everyone''s watchful eyes, pressed the answer button.


    Just as Lin Ting had anticipated, as soon as the communicator was connected, it wasn''t Qiu Tu''s voice that emerged, but that of Deputy Director Tang Feifei!


    Ah-Tai clearly had rehearsed many times before, so as soon he connected the call, he immediately pressed the loudspeaker button.


    The next second, Tang Feifei''s stern, deep voice resonated across the shores of Moonlight Lake.

 Chapter 275 Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She shouted sternly, "Lin Ting! What kind of defense have you set up?"


    "To let United Front''s people slip in so easily!"


    "If Minister Qiu and I hadn''t come for an unexpected inspection tonight, they would have burned you all to death and then slipped away royally!"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s criticism, Lin Ting''s face turned red and then white.


    But it was indeed his fault for the defense breach, so he could only accept it. He said, "Sorry, Director Tang, it''s my fault..."


    Before he could finish the word "responsibility," Tang Feifei cut him off sharply, saying, "Now is not the time to discuss who''s at fault!"


    "We four departments have been waiting for so long, just to harvest the Tears of Moonlight from that lake!"


    "No matter how big the fire, the ''Tears of Moonlight'' cannot be lost!"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, before Lin Ting could speak, a low murmur from an investigator could be heard, "The ''Tears of Moonlight'' cannot be lost... so we can be ''lost''?"


    "The wildfire is about to reach us, and we don''t have any tools. What can we do?"


    "Sit here and wait for death?"


    An investigator next to him whispered in agreement, "Yeah... She talks as if it''s easy. Why doesn''t she come over?"


    The muttering of those investigators was very soft, and Tang Feifei didn''t hear it.


    However, Tang Feifei''s next answer resolved the doubts of everyone present.


    She shouted loudly, "Ah-Tai! Give the ''Seal of Ownership'' to Minister Lin Ting!"


    "Let him summon me over!"


    "I have a way to stop this blaze!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s order, Ah-Tai hurriedly responded and pulled out a seal-shaped Cataclysmic treasure from his pocket, handing it to Lin Ting.


    Lin Ting skeptically accepted the seal, feeling something was amiss...


    Why did Tang Feifei seem to have a grasp on everything happening tonight?


    Why had she arranged for a specialized communicator and Cataclysmic treasures in advance?


    Despite his doubts, it was an emergency situation: the wildfire was growing stronger, and the fire was getting bigger! Thick smoke was already beginning to swirl and spread toward Moonlight Lake!


    So, he could only take the seal and then, following the method Tang Feifei had taught him, used it!


    As he did so, he felt his spiritual power being drained away like a tide!


    The terrifying sensation of being drained made him feel as though he was being sucked dry by a pump!


    Even worse, as his spiritual power depleted, he felt his physical strength and vitality also fading away rapidly!


    He wanted to abandon the summoning, but the seal had been activated and couldn''t be stopped!


    So, he collapsed to the ground, feeling his brain swell and his whole body nearly failing!


    Fortunately, the pain ended quickly.


    Just as he felt he was about to be drained, Tang Feifei suddenly appeared out of nowhere by the shores of Moonlight Lake!


    Clad in a crisp Bureau Chief uniform and long riding boots, she exuded an imposing aura! sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Facing the roaring fire dragon, she was like a general, opening a spatial Cataclysmic treasure and pouring out a pile of shovels and axes!


    Then she commanded, "Now! The agents of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau''s Special Service Department start chopping trees and digging soil immediately! Set up a firebreak!"


    After giving orders to her own Bureau agents, she looked toward the other three forces and shouted loudly, "I''ve already notified General Ye, Director Liu, and Colonel Wang!"


    "Now all soldiers and agents are under my command, follow my orders!"


    "Divide into three groups!"


    "One group will combine two water pumps to filter out pure water, then connect it to another pump, and start watering abundantly to the south to create a fire retardant barrier!" Discover hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    "The other two groups, get the sacks ready, fill them with the soil you''ve dug up! Then prepare for the third fire retardant barrier!"


    After speaking, she walked over to the fallen Lin Ting, took the ''Seal of Ownership'' from his hand, and began summoning various firefighting tools with her own spiritual power, which she and Qiu Tu had arranged in advance!


    --------


    Two chapters, 10,000 words, haha! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets! Tomorrow continues with another 10,000!

 Chapter 276 Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Quickly, along with the massive expenditure of Tang Feifei''s spiritual power, one piece of firefighting equipment after another was summoned by her!


    The strength of a Third Order Cataclysmic was terrifying to begin with, as both their spiritual power and vitality far exceeded that of ordinary humans, so, in no time, the lakeside of Moonlight Lake was filled with hundreds of pieces of firefighting equipment.


    Seeing this scene, the soldiers and detectives from the four forces were all a bit dumbfounded.


    Clearly, they who had been ready to flee just moments ago, found themselves caught off guard by this sudden change.


    Moreover, Tang Feifei claimed she had already informed all the chiefs of the three major departments and now could restrain and command them, which they also found a bit hard to believe.


    After all... the right to command wasn''t something you could take over just by saying so.


    At the very least, you''d have to show a token or verify the orders, which was the normal protocol, wasn''t it?


    But the problem was... the situation was really too urgent, the fire was spreading incessantly with the help of the south wind, and it looked like it was about to come their way very soon.


    If they were to make a call to confirm now, they estimated that by the time the call connected and the message was confirmed, all the people present would have already been engulfed in flames.


    However... blindly obeying orders from other department chiefs was a big taboo. A single mishandling could lead to problems, or even disgust from their own chiefs.


    Thus, the several high-ranking officials present were also somewhat hesitant to decide at the moment.


    But Tang Feifei, seeing this scene, seemed as if she had anticipated it all along.


    Her eyes narrowed, like a female leopard, she swept her dangerous gaze over all the high-ranking officials present, and then, with the presence of a Third Order Cataclysmic bursting forth, she coldly shouted, "Who dares defy orders! Don''t blame me for decapitating you on the spot!" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s thinly veiled threat of death and feeling the terrifying aura emanating from her,


    the complexions of the high-ranking officials present changed involuntarily.


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    Desperate times call for desperate measures. In such a critical moment, Tang Feifei might truly strike to kill and assert her authority!


    Under the threat of death, their inner scales began to slowly tilt.


    And it was at this moment that Tang Feifei spoke again. She gazed coldly over all the high-ranking officials present, then said, "I know what you are worried about."


    "So now I won''t command you. I''m just providing the firefighting tools; it''s up to you to decide whether to retreat or stay and protect Moonlight Lake," she said.


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the eyes of the high-ranking officials of the three major forces lit up.


    Those who could climb to high positions all had their tricks. They wouldn''t really take Tang Feifei''s suggestion of "option to retreat" seriously, but this pretext indeed provided them with a face-saving cover.


    If they were criticized in the future for following Tang Feifei''s orders, they could straightforwardly claim: They didn''t follow Tang Feifei''s orders, but decided on their own to put out the fire and save Moonlight Lake!


    Thinking this way, the three major forces no longer hesitated and joined the firefighting ranks en masse.


    Between the two cities and four departments, there were about a thousand or two thousand people by the shores of Moonlight Lake. Once all of them started moving in an orderly fashion, it wasn''t long before several large firebreaks were created around the lake!


    And at this time, the fire dragon, propelled by the wind, finally reached near Moonlight Lake.


    But... because of the firebreaks, it was like a rootless duckweed, unable to cross at all!


    So, it "had to" change direction and burned through the surrounding dry trees and leaves instead!


    In this way, the forest fire burned for a good three to four hours, burning all the dead leaves and dry trees in Moonlight Forest before gradually coming to an end.


    This was because Moonlight Forest was not very large, and it was not connected with the surrounding underbrush and clusters of trees...


    Otherwise, in the late autumn season, a forest fire could easily spread to the entire mountain range, burning for days and nights...


    Meanwhile, on the southern side of Moonlight Forest,


    Qiu Tu, dressed in a smart black uniform, squinted and smoked a cigarette while he also observed the bare Moonlight Forest.


    And behind him were teams of detectives from the Political Department''s Action Division, led by his twenty trusted subordinates.


    Now, both Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan had become First Level Detectives, each leading a team of 10-15 detectives.


    So, with a casual command from Qiu Tu, he could effortlessly muster a force of two to three hundred men, which was indeed strong and robust.


    With the protection of these loyal guards, coupled with Qiu Tu''s rank among the top twelve in the Investigation Bureau and his influence, in Lin Ting''s absence, he easily took control of the Special Service Department troops stationed in Moonlight Forest.


    It was with these two forces that Qiu Tu rounded up the United Front elites who had set the fire and attempted to flee, capturing them all in one fell swoop!


    The whole battle didn''t last long and the casualties were minimal. With only three seriously injured and a dozen lightly wounded, they killed thirteen United Front soldiers and captured the remaining eighteen!


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was observing the fire situation, several of his Interrogation Section subordinates, who had pledged allegiance to him in the past two days, were also working overtime in the camp, interrogating the captured United Front elites, trying to extract key intelligence from their mouths as much as possible.


    The nights of late autumn were getting colder and colder.


    Possibly concerned about Qiu Tu getting cold, Tan Huimin came over and draped a long black coat over him.


    The black coat matched the uniform, adding an even more imposing air to Qiu Tu.


    Tan Huimin had witnessed almost the entire operation that evening. Even though she was not interested in such conspiracies, calculations, or military operations, the dizzying pace of change was still somewhat astonishing to her.


    So, after she draped the coat over Qiu Tu, she didn''t step back but stood behind him, half a step behind his position, and asked softly, "Chief... how did you come up with the entire plan tonight?"

 Chapter 276 Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Why do you seem to have calculated everyone''s every move tonight so clearly...?"


    The beautiful young wife had, since tasting Qiu Tu''s dedication yesterday, seemed to add a lot more charm.


    Even on a night without light, her fair skin appeared to be shrouded in a faint glow.


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu also came back to reality from the charred Moonlight Forest.


    He tilted his head to glance at Tan Huimin, then tapped his own head with a smile and said, "It''s simple. By analysis."


    Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    Seeing the puzzled and uncomprehending look on Tan Huimin''s face, Qiu Tu chuckled but did not explain.


    "Emotional Fraud Manual"[108 Ways to Enhance Affection] Tip 3: A touch of mystery is always the best way to attract women.


    It''s in women''s nature to be stimulated by and to crave powerful men. "Mystery" can not only provide the thrill of decrypting but also greatly elevates you in her mind.


    So, when your mystery successfully arouses a woman''s curiosity, she is not far from succumbing.


    Women''s emotional nature will lead them to continuously guess everything about you. Thus, you will gradually occupy her time, her heart...


    As he thought this, Qiu Tu also reviewed the entire process of arranging tonight''s plan.


    In fact, from the moment he learned from Liu Xiongyuan that the United Front had dispatched three divisions to seize Moonlight Lake and even had their infiltrated members start assassinating officials in several cities near Eastern City, Qiu Tu felt that something was amiss.


    With Dongye State''s establishment imminent, more than a dozen cities are now inter-connected. Each city is stationed with roughly the strength of a division. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There are six or seven cities bordering Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    Therefore, even if the United Front''s three divisions were dispatched, they might very well be lured into a trap, easily encircled by the military of the six or seven cities.


    Moreover... if the United Front wanted to secretly seize Moonlight Lake, why not march quietly, act stealthily?


    Why resort to assassinating the upper echelons of various cities?


    Isn''t this instead a warning to all cities about the United Front''s actions?


    Where there''s something abnormal, there''s a demon at work. So, through these abnormal events, Qiu Tu boldly made a guess: Both the march of the three divisions and the assassinations of the officials in the surrounding cities were likely a ruse by the United Front!


    The likelihood was that the three divisions were tasked with some other mission; the move towards Moonlight Lake was probably just for show.


    Then the question arose. If all of this was a diversion, what were the United Front''s real countermeasures?


    Qiu Tu thought: To the United Front, if they couldn''t have something, they would destroy it.


    So he boldly speculated: There must be an elite squad that, while the United Front was making such a commotion and drawing everyone''s attention, had stealthily infiltrated either Xinjie City or Eastern City, ready to sabotage Moonlight Lake at an opportune time.


    As for how to quickly and conveniently destroy Moonlight Lake, after understanding in detail the environment around Moonlight Lake and Moonlight Forest, the words "fire attack" immediately came to Qiu Tu''s mind.


    Water and fire are merciless and can turn the tide against the wind. Therefore, they are the most frequently used strategies in history.


    There is no water near Moonlight Lake, but there are fallen leaves and dry wood, which make for an ideal place for a fire attack.


    If Qiu Tu were the United Front, he would definitely set the entire Moonlight Forest ablaze, thoroughly polluting Moonlight Lake.


    And moreover... Qiu Tu also speculated:


    The reason why the United Front made such a big move after Yan Chen was promoted might very well be with the intention of forcing the four major forces to gather Moonlight Lake ahead of time, further disrupting the deployment of the four forces.


    After all, if Yan Chen had not been promoted, the four major forces, while competing, would have remained in mutual balance, with each force responsible for guarding one direction of Moonlight Forest, forming an impregnable fortress, offering no opportunity to the United Front.


    It was precisely because Yan Chen''s promotion gave the United Front an opening that they used the false information to confuse the judgments of the major forces, ultimately finding an opportunity to exploit.


    And it was by following these clues that Qiu Tu discovered the United Front''s conspiracy.


    As a result, he made some plans of his own.


    He had not only prepared various fire extinguishing tools for Tang Feifei in advance but had also used the Seal of Ownership to stamp these fire extinguishers and even Tang Feifei herself, well in advance.


    He also made arrangements for Ah-Tai to enter the rotation ranks of the Special Service Department ahead of time, ready to cooperate with Tang Feifei at any moment.


    All this could firmly establish the charge of dereliction of duty against Yan Chen and, by the way, let Tang Feifei establish authority in front of the entire Special Service Department.


    Of course... the other reason for using the "Seal of Ownership" to summon Tang Feifei was to temporarily disable Lin Ting.


    The effect of the "Seal of Ownership" is that summoning anything requires a certain "cost."


    The amount of the "cost" depends on various factors such as the volume, mass, order, and the distance between the item or creature, and the user.


    Not to mention anything else, to summon Tang Feifei, a Third Order Cataclysmic at her peak, the cost to Lin Ting would certainly not be small.


    While not fatal, it most likely would necessitate several days of recuperation.


    Do not forget, the plan Qiu Tu made for Tang Feifei was to control the most powerful department of the Investigation Bureau as much as possible: the Special Service Department.


    Whether it was pulling the agents of the Special Service Department to train at the Training Department or implanting the Five Elders'' confidants into the Special Service Department, it all served this purpose.


    And during this time, if Lin Ting, the head of the Special Service Department, could be temporarily sidelined, everything would proceed even more smoothly!

 Chapter 276 Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    With these thoughts, he went over all the plans for tonight once again, and Qiu Tu felt somewhat relieved.


    Although he couldn''t directly benefit from the birth of Moonlight Lake,


    he had indirectly gained military credit and praise through its creation; he established authority for Tang Feifei; captured a group of the United Front''s elites, adding to his own qualifications; and incidentally took down Lin Ting...


    It was killing four birds with one stone.


    What was more important was... through the grand fire set by the United Front, and the crisis management by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau would once again be eligible to sit at the table where the benefits of Moonlight Lake were distributed.


    Yan Chen''s dereliction of duty almost caused the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to miss out on the benefits of Moonlight Lake, but Tang Feifei''s heroic efforts changed it all!


    The stark contrast between the two figures, one high and the other low, would become apparent; by then, Yan Chen wouldn''t even be able to make excuses at the Sanctuary!


    Thinking this, a smile couldn''t help but curl up at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth,


    ''I''m really looking forward to seeing Yan Chen''s expression after learning about the whole affair...''


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was lost in these thoughts,


    with the flames extinguished and the temperature gradually decreasing, Tang Feifei, leading the agents of the Special Service Department and carrying Lin Ting, slowly walked out of the Moonlight Forest.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly went up to meet them.


    Approaching them, their eyes exchanged a glance, each read the perfect execution of the plan in the other''s gaze.


    ''Yan Chen is really finished this time...''


    ''If he doesn''t handle it well, he might not even be able to keep his position as Bureau Chief.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt almost ready to pop open a champagne bottle inside.


    But just then,


    suddenly, one of the two stars shining in the sky, one bright and the other dim, burst into light!


    The next second, a beam of starlight shot out from Xinjie City, trailing a dazzling tail, and raced backward into the heavens above!


    That action was like an escape...


    And that wasn''t the end; afterward, the green giant tree phantom that had always stood tall over Xinjie City suddenly exploded into a burst of starlight, scattering over the entire Xinjie City!


    Seeing this astonishing celestial phenomenon, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but be startled, then quickly looked towards Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei''s expression at this moment, however, was somewhat strange.


    It was a serious look mixed with a smile, but the smile was somewhat heavy...


    Possibly feeling Qiu Tu''s gaze, she turned her head towards him, then said softly, "It seems our series of actions have thoroughly cornered Yan Chen." S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "He directly risked a severe drain on his vital energy, then forcibly terminated the advancement, releasing Larilo, to resolve the crisis."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was also shocked.


    His series of actions made Yan Chen give up his advancement?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu was quite aware of just how much he, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei had done during Yan Chen''s advancement period, and how much commotion they had caused.


    Yan Chen had only disappeared for four or five days, and Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei almost uprooted his foundation.


    And Liu Xiongyuan even took advantage of Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic Power during his advancement to forcibly induce the early formation of Moonlight Lake.


    A combination of blows later, the situation had completely reversed.


    So, it wasn''t a surprise to Qiu Tu that Yan Chen was forced by the three of them to give up his advancement.


    What surprised him was... Yan Chen''s decisiveness!


    Upon realizing his efforts were futile, he immediately cut his losses and returned to manage the crisis!


    Don''t forget, Moonlight Lake had just congealed, and things were not yet over; Yan Chen''s return could possibly turn the tables. Experience exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    And as Qiu Tu was pondering this,


    sure enough, the next second, Tang Feifei''s special communicator rang.


    Tang Feifei glanced at the communicator, then answered it.


    No sooner had the call connected than Yan Chen''s voice, slightly weak but still deep and powerful, came through.


    "Director Tang, you and Minister Qiu have done very well tonight. You did not fail the trust I placed in you."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s first sentence, Qiu Tu''s brow unconsciously furrowed.


    ------


    It''s still two chapters, ten thousand words. Seeking a guaranteed Monthly Ticket for the new month!

 Chapter 277 The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu was no longer a novice in the officialdom.


    After these several months, he had basically come to understand some of the unwritten rules and jargon of the bureaucracy.


    Yan Chen''s remark might seem unproblematic at first glance¡ªafter all, he was the Bureau Chief, and both Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu were his subordinates.


    So it was only natural for him to commend them for their meritorious service now.


    But on closer consideration, the focus of his message became clear: "You did not let down ''my'' ''trust'' in you."


    In effect, this was a covert signal that tonight''s operation had been authorized and arranged by Yan Chen.


    Consequently, the lion''s share of the credit would go to Yan Chen.


    After all, it was Yan Chen who had the merit of leadership.


    With just a simple phrase, Yan Chen nearly foiled the plan hatched by Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, and Liu Xiongyuan to undermine him.


    When the time came to report to the Sanctuary, they would credit everything that occurred tonight to the achievements of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau¡ªthat is, to Yan Chen''s leadership.


    And he would no longer face criticism for choosing to advance his rank at such a crucial time at Moonlight Lake.


    Realizing this and understanding the deeper meaning in Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu quickly shook his head at Tang Feifei to signal her.


    If Qiu Tu could detect the self-aggrandizing message in Yan Chen''s words, Tang Feifei was certainly able to as well.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s signal, she first nodded slightly at him, and then with an aloof expression, she said, "Bureau Chief, you flatter us."


    "Confronted with such an unexpected turn of events, we were very panicked tonight."


    "We wanted to seek your guidance at the first moment, but then we remembered you were in seclusion and completely unreachable."


    "Thus, in dealing with the situation, we took over the site without your consent and even falsely used the names of Director Liu, General Ye, and Colonel Wang, claiming they authorized us to control the three major institutions!"


    "Allowing the forces of the three institutions to follow our command!"


    "Here, both Minister Qiu and I need to apologize to the Bureau Chief first."


    "Due to the urgency of the situation, we took some actions that may not have complied with the regulations. Tomorrow, we will personally compose a written self-critique to submit to the Bureau Chief for your review and response."


    Tang Feifei played her tai chi masterfully, setting the tone for tonight''s events as an emergency.


    Because it was an "emergency," there was, in fact, no issue of leadership planning or command.


    Then, she proceeded with self-criticism, admitting that she and Qiu Tu, in order to save Moonlight Lake and capture the elite squad of the United Front, may have conducted themselves in a way that breached regulations, and thus needed to review their actions.


    There were two purposes for this. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One was to minimize the impact by owning up to mistakes right after achieving a success, as well as to prevent Yan Chen from causing them difficulties later on.


    Two was that, by writing this critique, they would actually be reaffirming once again in writing that the credit for this event was entirely due to Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu.


    Yan Chen understood Tang Feifei''s implication.


    He was not a person who liked to confront issues head-on, and his body had not fully recovered since he had abruptly ended his advancement.


    So after remaining silent for two seconds, he spoke with his uniquely deep, husky voice, "Necessity knows no law. I understand."


    "Tonight''s sudden occurrence was unexpected by anyone. It''s understandable that some pre-arranged plans in the Bureau slipped up."


    "You were able to adapt on the fly, handle the situation flexibly, and help the Bureau to check and fill its gaps. You did well."


    "Regarding what comes next, I will have Director Lai take over and manage the negotiations with the military and Eastern City, as well as the matter of the share of Moonlight Lake. I will personally handle it."


    "You have worked hard tonight. Come back early and rest."


    After stating his plans in a low voice, Yan Chen did not wait for Tang Feifei''s reaction and immediately hung up the communication.


    Noticing Yan Chen''s last words, Tang Feifei''s face turned as cold as if it could freeze over.


    Although Yan Chen gave up his "leadership credit," he still played the card of "internal issues."


    Simply put, he separated himself from this oversight, positioning Lin Ting and Tang Feifei as the opposing side.


    The mistake was Lin Ting''s; the achievement was Tang Feifei''s. But whether it was an achievement or a mistake, it was an internal matter of the Bureau and not to be singled out.


    This was virtuous and seemed absolutely fair.


    Moreover, since Yan Chen was the Bureau Chief with the power to have the final say, Tang Feifei had no way to refute.


    Otherwise, it would appear as disunity and would cause an ugly scene in the higher-ups...


    Thus, following the phone call, Tang Feifei''s expression was frosty, and she remained silent.


    Standing beside her, Qiu Tu silently contemplated the spar between the two heavyweights and felt he had learned a great deal.


    Yan Chen was indeed Yan Chen. Just with one phone call, he had resolved the crisis...


    Fortunately, he still had a trump card up his sleeve.


    Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the dark sky above.


    In the sky, the bright "Polaris" had vanished, obviously representing Yan Chen, who had failed in his advancement.


    From this viewpoint, the dim star was undoubtedly Larilo.


    The difference in the brightness of their "stars" did not stem from Yan Chen being stronger than Larilo.


    Instead, it was because of... their respective worlds.


    Larilo''s True Body was in the Boundless Heart Sea, separated from the real world by a barrier, which naturally made it appear dimmer; whereas Yan Chen, being in the real world, would appear brighter.


    And at this moment, that dim star was still shining, with the meteor that had shot up into the sky now merging with it.


    "Larilo..."


    Qiu Tu whispered the name to himself and then lowered his head.


    At the same time...


    In the study room of a Garden Villa in the City Center Garden,


    There was the crisp sound of shattering glass!


    A crystal ashtray was smashed hard against Ji Chen''s head by Yan Chen!

 Chapter 277 The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Worthless!"


    Yan Chen''s eyes were bloodshot, like those of a raging lion!


    He glared at Ji Chen, his eyes filled with a chilling coldness!


    At that moment, he seemed to have completely changed, no longer the composed and restrained man he used to be.


    Ji Chen stumbled from the blow, his head suddenly swollen.


    But he didn''t dare to rub or touch it; he quickly steadied his dizzy body and stood upright before Yan Chen, saying nothing.


    Because he knew Yan Chen was truly capable of killing someone at that point!


    "Huff... Huff..."


    Yan Chen took a few heavy breaths, glared at him fiercely, and then heavily sat down on the mahogany chair.


    After that, he picked up the desk phone, dialed a few numbers, and rapidly made several arrangements. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These included but were not limited to instructing the Deputy Director of the Special Service Department, Lai Shun, to take over the Special Service Department outside Moonlight Forest; instructing the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, Cai Peiyuan, to take charge of the captured confidants of the United Front; pacifying Lin Ting; warning Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin.


    Having made several calls, the fury in Yan Chen''s heart seemed to have gradually subsided.


    He sat back into the darkness, the light shining on his desk, illuminating a small circle.


    With his eyes closed, he seemed to be sorting through the recent turmoil caused by Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu at the Investigation Bureau and pondering how to put everything back on track.


    Thus, after thinking for a good fifteen minutes or so, Yan Chen slowly began to speak, "Ji Chen. Do you know why I''m angry with you?"


    Ji Chen, with a large bump on his forehead, kept his head down and said softly, "I know. I failed to handle the tasks the Bureau Chief entrusted to me."


    "You failed to protect Wu Counselor, failed to capture Qiu Tu, and let Director Tang and the others take control of the Investigation Bureau."


    Yan Chen snorted heavily through his nose.


    Then, with drooping eyelids and a face full of disappointment, he said, "Not only did you not accomplish these, but you even forgot all the tasks I had given you."


    He said, "Haven''t I told you before? Lai Shun is brainless, Yu Zhengyi is slippery."


    "The moment I''m not here, you must closely watch Yu Zhengyi. Pressured by Tang Feifei, he is likely to sit on the fence, offending neither side."


    "And relying solely on Lai Shun, you can''t outfight Tang Feifei."


    "So, whenever I''m not around, and Yu Zhengyi shows any tendency to shirk responsibilities, immediately put him up as acting Bureau Chief!"


    "Occupying that position, he can''t shirk anymore. Or even if he does, he can only drag Tang Feifei down with him."


    "And as long as Tang Feifei is held back, it will create time for me, which will be advantageous to us!"


    In his final words, Yan Chen''s voice again carried suppressed rage, "Instead of the current situation, where Tang Feifei has stolen the position, and that old slicker turned a blind eye, letting Tang Feifei run amok!"


    Ji Chen quickly apologized, "Yes... Bureau Chief. It was my lack of timeliness."


    He tried to argue, "Mainly because Wu Counselor''s death was so sudden, and Director Tang''s ''coup'' was launched so unexpectedly."


    "I didn''t even have time to convey your wishes before she directly turned Director Yu against us. She then suspended me, expelled me from the Investigation Bureau, convened a high-level meeting, and established her position as acting Bureau Chief."


    "I also tried to meet with Director Yu several times afterward. If he wasn''t unavailable, even when he did meet, he practiced Tai Chi, and I simply couldn''t do anything..."


    The actions of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu this time were indeed too decisive, and Ji Chen was too slow to react; it wasn''t entirely his fault.


    So after a cold snort from Yan Chen, he still refrained from criticism.


    ¡ªAfter all... before his promotion, he also made a phone call to Yu Zhengyi, hinting that he might be away for a few days, asking Yu Zhengyi to manage the Investigation Bureau in his absence.


    Yu Zhengyi had agreed at the time.


    But when he called to inquire about this matter just now, Yu Zhengyi also played dumb, saying he thought Yan Chen wasn''t going away, assuming it wasn''t official.


    Moreover, compared to Yu Zhengyi''s habitual avoidance of responsibility, Bai Yu being controlled by Qiu Tu was the core issue causing all of Yan Chen''s arrangements to collapse.


    Despite being just Yan Chen''s secretary, Bai Yu held a high position, and his actions represented Yan Chen.


    As long as he was around, the Investigation Bureau couldn''t fall into chaos.


    Who would have thought that exactly at that time, Qiu Tu would discover Bai Yu was a follower of Larilo and got hold of the arrest warrant?


    Pondering this, Yan Chen couldn''t help feeling a bit weary.


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    Previously, with his confidants Bai Yu and Jia Shu by his side, and stalwarts like Lin Ting, Guan Weimin, and Lai Shun, and even though Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin would occasionally play tricks, they were mostly obedient; thus, the Investigation Bureau could be said to be as impregnable as a fortress under Yan Chen''s management.


    Yet, in just a few short months, Jia Shu was killed, followed by Bai Yu''s arrest.


    The protege he had cultivated, Ji Chen, had mediocre abilities and was like a wall that couldn''t be leaned on.


    Even though the other senior officials were still on his side, he inexplicably felt a sense of impending doom.


    ''How did things develop to this point?''


    ''Merely because of Qiu Tu, the heavens of the Investigation Bureau changed?''


    To be honest, thinking this way, Yan Chen felt a bit ridiculous: That small detective from the beginning, was he really so capable?


    Having known him for over a year, had Yan Chen not realized that the other was a hero with grand schemes?


    For the first time truly acknowledging Qiu Tu''s capabilities, Yan Chen took a deep breath, his eyes becoming extremely sharp.


    Although the promotion caused a mess at the Investigation Bureau... it was all minor chaos.


    He was back now, and everything could easily be set right.


    Besides, he was not without the ability to fight back.

 Chapter 277 The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Because he decisively cut off his own problems early on, he didn''t commit a major mistake and still managed to snatch some of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu''s merits. Thus, he didn''t lose points at the Sanctuary.


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    But where he didn''t lose points, he was able to make Tang Feifei and Liu Xiongyuan lose points.


    His advancement to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver this time was meant to strengthen the Sanctuary and bolster the power of the Investigation Bureau!


    And to Devour an Evil God was to further weaken the enemy''s power!


    Therefore, righteousness was on his side! S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While Tang Feifei and Liu Xiongyuan, one seized power while he was absent; the other prematurely activated Moonlight Lake. Both interfered with his advancement! Forcing him to give up on Devouring the Evil God!


    This not only deprived the Human Race of one more Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver but also allowed an Evil God to escape!


    The guilt was enough for Liu Xiongyuan and Tang Feifei to drink a pot!


    They might even end up with mere verbal criticism or a demotion.


    Thinking thus, Yan Chen''s anger about his failed promotion seemed to finally find an outlet!


    He stretched out his withered hand towards Ji Chen and gestured for him to leave.


    Then, he sank into deep thought for a long time before picking up the landline on the desk and dialing the direct line to the Sanctuary.....


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    On the outskirts of Moonlight Forest.


    After handing over the on-site troops to Lai Shun, Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu got into the jeep, ready to return to Xinjie City.


    The driver was Tang Feifei''s secretary, Su Xiaowan, basically one of their own. That''s why both of them didn''t hide anything when they talked.


    Since hanging up the phone, Tang Feifei''s face had looked a bit off.


    She coldly gazed out of the window at the desolate landscape and then said softly, "It has all fallen short of success."


    "Yan Chen is too decisive," she murmured.


    Qiu Tu nodded and said, "Yes. His decisive action indeed surprised me a bit."


    "I guess Liu Xiongyuan using his power to activate Moonlight Lake prematurely must have been sensed by him."


    "After weighing the pros and cons, he realized that if something went wrong with Moonlight Lake, even if he advanced, he wouldn''t get the position of Deputy Speaker, and he might even face questioning."


    "Thus, he made a quick decision, choosing the lesser of two evils."


    Upon saying this, Qiu Tu lightly added, "Besides, he is very likely harboring thoughts of blaming you and Liu Xiongyuan for his failed advancement."


    "The him of now might have already reported the situation to his backers at the Sanctuary."


    Tang Feifei, being magnanimous, though also adept at power plays, mostly engaged in straightforward strategies. She was, admittedly, a bit lacking in intrigue.


    Hearing Qiu Tu say that, she was momentarily stunned, then turned to look at Qiu Tu.


    Sensing Tang Feifei''s gaze, Qiu Tu smiled and glanced back at her, nodding in confirmation, "Indeed, with Yan Chen''s cunning and slyness, he won''t think about simply tidying up the mess. Instead, he might very well attack in defense, reversing the situation."


    Instead of panicking at Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face was filled with deep thought.


    After a moment, her sharp gaze turned to Qiu Tu and she confidently said, "If you already guessed his actions, then there''s a high likelihood... that you have a contingency plan, right?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu gave a mysterious smile and responded, "Of course...."


    Qiu Tu leaned back with his hands behind his head and said, "Do you really think you didn''t get authorization from Director Liu, General Ye, and Colonel Wang?"


    "Guess why so many people can''t get in touch with them?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was taken aback at first, then she looked at Qiu Tu with surprise, and pointed towards the star in the sky!


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "What could be a greater merit than killing or routing an Evil God than a mere Moonlight Lake?"


    "Yan Chen had been consuming Larilo''s power for so long. For them, wasn''t that the greatest merit and gift?"


    "Hence, I''ve reached an agreement with Director Liu and them...."


    "This is what they call ''the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind; the snipe and the clam grapple, and the fisherman reaps the benefit''...."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident gaze, Tang Feifei couldn''t contain her surprise any longer on her cool expression.


    She stared at Qiu Tu, almost unable to suppress the amber in her eyes....


    -------

 Chapter 278 Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Watching Tang Feifei''s eyes brimming with barely restrained desire, Qiu Tu was startled.


    He coughed lightly, then said softly, "Xiaowan is still here."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei took a deep breath, as though suppressing that flutter inside her heart.


    That was just her nature.


    Possibly due to her martial arts training, which was intense and fierce like thunder, she found it hard to restrain her lust when she was extremely interested in someone.


    In the past, she had only ever felt this way toward women. After all, women were like water, perfectly suited to extinguishing the flames within her and allowing her to vent her passion in the tender land of love.


    But after meeting Qiu Tu, she realized that men could be just as interesting.


    She didn''t deny that her willingness to play those cat-and-mouse games with Qiu Tu was because of his appearance.


    After all, she had encountered many men who were mysterious and dangerous, but they were all old men who failed to spark her interest.


    That''s why she was still willing to be led on by Qiu Tu, even after seeing through some of his little tricks.


    However, things were different now.


    At first, she was only immersed in... dominating Qiu Tu, draining him dry, and taking pleasure in watching him weakly leave the bed.


    Every time she saw Qiu Tu stubbornly claim he was still fine, that he could go another round, she didn''t show it on her face, but she found it immensely amusing inside.


    Therefore, she controlled her own desires, trying her best to accommodate Qiu Tu, making sure each time to drain him to the last drop, yet leaving him just enough energy.


    And... she would even pretend to be close to her own limits.


    That was her second delight...


    But lately, she noticed things were becoming a bit different.


    As Qiu Tu''s position and responsibilities rose, offering her more and more assistance,


    she found more and more interesting points about Qiu Tu, like his strong self-confidence, his strategic planning, and his relentless determination!


    Just now, she had praised Yan Chen for his decisiveness, for amputating promptly like a great warrior.


    But... honestly, Qiu Tu was even more decisive than Yan Chen.


    At the moment when Yan Chen had just started his closed-door cultivation and Secretary Bai was under his control, Qiu Tu sharply recognized the power vacuum in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau!


    Then he incited Tang Feifei to "overthrow" and take power!


    Even a "coup" within a city''s department was a life-and-death situation. If it failed, Tang Feifei might be fine with her powerful background, but Qiu Tu would have definitely met a grim fate!


    But Qiu Tu dared to do it, and he did it with utmost decisiveness!


    It was exactly because of this decisiveness that Yu Zhengyi didn''t have the chance to rise to power, and Ji Chen didn''t have the time to carry out Yan Chen''s plans, which allowed the "coup" to succeed!


    This time, upon learning that Liu Xiongyuan planned to bring forth Moonlight Lake ahead of schedule, not only did Qiu Tu earn a huge favor from the military; he crafted a plan that killed four birds with one stone; and he had even silently set such a huge trap without a sound!


    This naturally took Tang Feifei by surprise.


    That was also why she was struggling to control her emotions.


    So after taking a deep breath, Tang Feifei spoke with a solemn voice, "Come to my place tonight."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu had actually been eating quite well these past few days, especially finding Fang Tangtang''s facial cleanser irresistibly delightful, so he really had no thoughts of indulging in Tang Feifei''s lavish meal.


    So he coughed and gently declined, "Bureau Chief, I have other plans tonight."


    The golden light in Tang Feifei''s eyes did not diminish, "One promise."


    This was her opening offer.


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue and was about to speak.


    Tang Feifei, "Two."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    He coughed and wanted to say it wasn''t a matter of promises.


    Tang Feifei, "Three."


    After saying this, Tang Feifei turned to gaze at Qiu Tu, her expression cold as she stated, "This is the bottom line."


    "If you don''t accept, I''ll just dump you here now and go back to the city to find a gigolo."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Honestly, Qiu Tu wasn''t particularly concerned about Tang Feifei''s threats to find a gigolo.


    What he mostly felt was that three promises were indeed quite a lot.


    So, he coughed and said, "Bureau Chief, this is coercion! Out here in the middle of nowhere, how long would I have to run to get back to Xinjie City? Do I even need to work tomorrow?"


    "So, I''m agreeing for the sake of work! Work!" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a beautiful smile couldn''t help but curl on Tang Feifei''s lips.....


    Occasionally teasing Qiu Tu, her strategic subordinate, and watching him crack, was Tang Feifei''s... third pleasure.


    With that thought, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but lift her eyes to the pitch-black firmament outside the window.


    Above the firmament, the retrograde shooting star seemed to approach that dim star closer and closer.


    ''Can Qiu Tu''s plan really succeed?''


    Although Qiu Tu was always good at strategizing, Tang Feifei also knew the saying that man''s plans are no match for those of heaven.


    Especially when it came to matters like hunting the Evil God in the Boundless Heart Sea, any complication wouldn''t be surprising....


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Boundless Heart Sea...


    As the source of all Cataclysmic Power and the spiritual destination of the entire world, the Boundless Heart Sea was not, as ordinary people imagined, a mere ocean, but... a complete world, just like the real world. Discover hidden content at My Virtual Library Empire


    However, this world differed from the real one.


    The real world is spherical, while the Boundless Heart Sea is square-shaped....


    It is like a colossal mirror, hovering over the entire real world.


    And more bizarrely, in this Boundless Heart Sea, there is no direction, no east, west, south, north, nor any end.....


    The whole world is like a vast interactive sandbox. You walk forward toward what appears to be a desert, only to find upon reaching it that it''s a lush primitive forest instead!

 Chapter 278 Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    You want to return to your original place, but you find the path back no longer leads to where you came from.


    This is the unpredictable "Boundless Heart Sea."


    In this world with no east, west, north, or south, without any direction, the only way to determine your location is through [coordinates]!


    These coordinates represent a region''s corresponding position in reality.


    No matter to which part of the Boundless Heart Sea the region has shifted. As long as you know its coordinates, you can reach the area quickly through certain means.


    And right now, within the Boundless Heart Sea, at the region corresponding to Xinjie City.


    There stand three people at the junction of regional transit, patiently waiting...


    The region corresponding to Xinjie City is a dense and magnificent jungle.


    The sky above the jungle is pitch black, with a blood moon hanging.


    Within the jungle, the ground is covered with low growing plants that have a dazzling array of appearances, emitting enchanting glows.


    Their leaves and flowers twinkle like stars under the night sky, illuminating the entire forest.


    Examining the forest before him, Liu Xiongyuan, the old man, kept his mouth tightly shut, his lips downturned, forming a cold arc.


    He said coldly, "It seems that after all these years of fighting with Yan Chen, I still don''t understand him as well as that kid Qiu Tu."


    "He told me there was a 60% chance Yan Chen might make a desperate move, forcibly halt his advancement, and let Larilo go. I didn''t believe it."


    "Now it looks like he was right after all."


    At this time, standing beside him were two middle-aged men dressed in military uniforms.


    Both of them were around forty years old. One stood straight as a column, exuding a steady dignity and an imposing appearance, with eyebrows sharp as swords, his whole body emitting a strong scent of blood.


    If Qin Shuman were here, she would recognize him. He was her direct superior, the highest commander of the Xinjie City Military Department, Major General Ye Mingfeng, who once carried out a bloody purge in Xinjie City!


    The other had a smile on his face. Though his demeanor was also extraordinary, he gave off a bit of a rough soldier''s air, clearly the highest commander of the Eastern City Military Department: Colonel Wang Hu.


    Like Liu Xiongyuan, both were Third Order Cataclysmics, and had been persuaded by Qiu Tu to come here to earn great merit.


    That''s why they had accompanied Liu Xiongyuan to the Boundless Heart Sea, to induce Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, precipitate the congregation of Moonlight Lake early, and ambush Larilo here.


    Initially, their thoughts weren''t much different from Liu Xiongyuan''s, feeling that Qiu Tu''s prediction was not very reliable. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... Qiu Tu was really persuasive, giving them the impression that they would regret it if they didn''t come.


    So, with the mindset that there was nothing to lose even if they did come on a wild goose chase, they gathered here.


    Who would have thought that Qiu Tu''s guess would actually prove correct!


    Thinking this, they couldn''t help but keep raising their estimation of Qiu Tu in their minds, and... they felt relieved that they really did come to snipe Larilo.


    With that in mind, they bucked up, calculating the time Larilo had been fleeing, and got ready.


    And so they waited another two minutes. Explore hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    Finally, a meteor streaked across the sky, then plummeted straight down into this jungle region!


    Only a "Boom!" was heard!


    An empty hole was left on the ground!


    The next second, Larilo clambered up from the ground in a sorry state.


    She was covered in blood, her spirit wilted, and her condition was obviously very poor.


    After all, unlike the other three, she didn''t enter the Boundless Heart Sea with her spirit leaving the body independently.


    Her consciousness was inseparable from this body due to Yan Chen''s calculations.


    So, after Yan Chen lifted the Domain, she had to burn her spirit forcibly to break through the world barrier with her flesh and return to the Boundless Heart Sea!


    Her plan was simple: only by escaping back to her home turf and merging with her original self could she find a way to undo this merger and take revenge on Yan Chen!


    During this escape, no matter how great the cost, it was acceptable!


    Luckily, she succeeded and truly escaped back to the Boundless Heart Sea, to her own region...


    Thinking this, Larilo breathed a sigh of relief, then climbed out of the crater and directly used her consciousness to communicate with her original self.


    But at that moment!


    Suddenly, a "Swoosh!" of a breaking air came!


    The next second, a spear of lightning shot forth from afar!


    Larilo jumped in fright, rolling awkwardly in the dirt to dodge the lightning spear!


    Only a "Boom!" thundered as the lightning spear blasted another large hole in the pit!


    "Who is it!?" Larilo stiffened and then looked palely in the direction from where the spear had come.


    The next second, three figures emerged from the jungle, unmistakably Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu.


    The three were levitating, their bodies radiating powerful auras.


    Perhaps because they were ready for battle, their appearances had also changed.


    Liu Xiongyuan, for instance... His pale hair stood on end, his whole body filled with the aura of a war god!


    His once short stature had somehow expanded more than twice its size, becoming tall and burly like a towering mountain, unshakable.


    He was bare-chested, his exposed muscles firm and powerful, seeming as though each muscle contained endless strength; his back was arched and resilient, his nostrils flared as if he were constantly breathing out flames and thunder!


    He glared at Larilo as if he were about to charge forward and shred her the next second!


    And Ye Mingfeng was similar, with a faint mist of blood surrounding him, standing quietly in the air, yet he exuded a sharpness that seemed to pierce the heavens!

 Chapter 278 Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Even though he did nothing, that powerful momentum still swept in like a hurricane! sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing this scene, Larilo knew she''d been calculated.


    She glared at Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu, her enraged words squeezing out from between her teeth bit by bit, "You''ve really gone mad! To dare ambush me in my own domain!"


    "It seems, when the tiger doesn''t display its might, you indeed treat me as a sick cat!"


    "Do you really think I, a deity, am famous for nothing!"


    While saying this, Larilo''s body also burst forth with a powerful momentum!


    Upon witnessing this, Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu also tensed up, maintaining a vigilant state!


    But then, who knew, the next second, like an arrow released from a bow, Larilo turned tail and ran!


    While running, she used all her strength to shout loudly, "Sister! Sister! Save me! Save me! Zhao Ji! Save me!"


    Upon seeing this, the three men realized they had been duped and quickly gave chase!


    "Boom!" a thunderclap roared!


    The sky seemed to begin drizzling a fine rain!


    Lying in bed, having just gone through a round of passionate struggle with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu tilted his head towards the suddenly overcast sky.


    Tang Feifei, with her arms bared, wrapped them around from behind his back, her elastic and wild body pressing against Qiu Tu''s back, letting him feel the softness of her chest.


    Her skin was the color of wheat, slightly different from Qiu Tu''s, but when they pressed together, it didn''t feel out of place.


    "Whoosh!"


    As if on cue, the rain began to pour down.


    Qiu Tu lit a cigarette, his right hand holding it, while his left hand reached back to stroke Tang Feifei''s slender waist, then he softly said, "Do you think... Director Liu and the others will succeed?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei coldly said, "As long as Larilo has no reinforcements, it shouldn''t be a problem."


    "But if an Evil God comes to her aid, it will be good enough if Liu Xiongyuan and the others can retreat in one piece."


    Just as she said this, suddenly, a star in the heavens shone brightly!


    The next second, it turned into a green meteor, plummeting straight towards the earth!


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei abruptly sat up, then with her long legs, dashed to the window!


    Looking at the celestial phenomenon, Tang Feifei''s calm face took on a hint of surprise, "Did they really succeed...?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also quickly sat up and asked, "What succeeded? Did Director Liu and the others succeed?"


    Tang Feifei nodded and said coldly, "The fall of an Evil God is always marked by a phenomenon."


    "This green meteor is likely the fall of Larilo."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu said excitedly, "So Larilo is completely dead?"


    Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then said, "Whether she''s completely dead or not, it''s hard to say."


    "After all, Larilo excelled in prolonging life and liked to use avatars."


    "But her main body is likely completely destroyed, and she has also lost the status of a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver, no longer possessing a domain and the various powers of an Evil God."


    "That''s why this phenomenon occurred."


    Saying this, Tang Feifei seemed to recall something and chuckled lightly, "Yan Chen is going to have a headache."


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Having exchanged information with the backstage of the Sanctuary and made several calls to understand the recent doings of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, Yan Chen sat quietly in the study.


    Perhaps because he had once again gotten a grasp on the situation, his face returned to its usual unflappable expression.


    In his aged eyes, there was also a touch of indifference.


    After sitting quietly for a while, Yan Chen was about to get up to rest.


    Your journey continues on My Virtual Library Empire


    But just then, all of a sudden, he trembled, his face changed, and he spat out blood with a "Wow".


    ------

 Chapter 279 Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    A mouthful of fresh blood spewed out, and Yan Chen''s just-stabilized breathing became weak again.


    He looked at the bright red blood on the desk in front of him with a pained expression.


    Blood sprayed onto the mahogany desk, looking particularly conspicuous under the dim yellow light.


    Clutching his chest, Yan Chen fell back into his seat, then turned his head to look at the half-open window.


    Outside the window, a green meteor streaked across the sky, plummeting straight down to the ground!


    Upon seeing this, Yan Chen''s normally placid eyes finally filled with disbelief.


    ''Larilo actually fell?!''


    Thinking this, Yan Chen couldn''t help but reach for his chest.


    In recent days, he had taken control of Larilo through his domain, then forcibly extracted her spiritual power and vitality using his own abilities!


    In just a few days, he had drawn nearly one-third of Larilo''s spiritual power and vitality!


    All of it was stored inside his chest.


    Although the process had been interrupted later and he couldn''t directly advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, that didn''t mean these spiritual powers and vitalities were without effect.


    He only needed to refine it for a while, remove the spiritual imprint of Larilo, and he could completely convert it into his nourishment for advancement.


    With this accumulation of spiritual power and vitality, if he collected some more in the future, he could use some opportunity to attempt to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic again!


    Therefore, although he hadn''t achieved his goal by trapping Larilo this time, he hadn''t suffered a loss either.


    It was precisely because of this confidence that Yan Chen decisively lifted his domain and released Larilo upon discovering the major changes in Xinjie City.


    Who would have expected that after he released Larilo, she would be killed by someone else!


    The spiritual power and vitality he had drawn from Larilo, which hadn''t completely severed their connection, suddenly reacted and exploded along with it!


    That was the very thing that caused him to suddenly suffer a serious injury!


    And that wasn''t the end of it...


    Thinking this, Yan Chen closed his eyes and sensed the spiritual power and vitality he had drawn from Larilo within his body.


    Only a third remained.


    Although this power had become very pure due to the lack of Larilo''s spiritual connection and could be directly absorbed,


    Yan Chen had laid out his plans for so long and made so much effort, not just for this bit of power!


    Thinking this, Yan Chen''s eyes turned red with rage...


    ''Who is it? Who exactly is ruining my plans?''


    In the darkness, a suppressed aura burst forth.


    If one paid close attention, Yan Chen''s strength was only slightly less than Liu Xiongyuan, and it differed little from Tang Feifei or General Ye Mingfeng.


    This was completely inconsistent with everyone''s assessment of his strength and the general perception of him as a "civil officer"....


    Just then, the door to Yan Chen''s study was suddenly pushed open with force. Ji Chen stood at the doorway with a panicked face, and then he said to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief! A Divine Falling Meteor! A Divine Falling Meteor! An Evil God has fallen!"


    Ji Chen hadn''t even finished speaking!


    A ''Boom!'' sounded!


    His head, as if a firecracker had been stuffed into a watermelon, exploded into a shower of gore!


    Yan Chen, permeating a slight chill, looked at Ji Chen''s corpse with cold, reddened eyes, and he snorted,


    "Undisciplined trash!"


    After saying that, he took a deep breath of foul air.


    "Don''t they know to knock before entering the study!" Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps killing someone eased the maliciousness in Yan Chen''s heart somewhat.


    His eyes gradually returned to that cloudy gray, and his expression once again became impassive.


    After sitting quietly for about two to three minutes, Yan Chen finally stretched out his aged left hand and gently pressed a button on the desk.


    A few seconds later, several solemn-looking investigators hurried over.


    They glanced at Ji Chen''s corpse lying by the doorway of the study, showed surprise at first, then quickly saluted Yan Chen, and only after that did they begin to clean up swiftly.


    A minute later, the blood at the doorway of the study and Ji Chen''s body were all thoroughly cleaned up and buried in the garden of the backyard.


    This newly-appointed Deputy Staff head, who had always been jealous of Qiu Tu and tried several times to create trouble for him, thus completely vanished from the world...


    From beginning to end, Qiu Tu never even looked at him properly, nor did he ever consider him an enemy....


    The door to the study slowly closed, keeping the light out and leaving only darkness within the room.


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, head tilted back, his mind slowly turning.


    After killing Ji Chen and venting the frustration in his heart, Yan Chen realized there were even more problems.


    Many details about Larilo''s fall were suspicious. Enjoy exclusive adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    As a Fourth-order Evil God, it would have been very difficult to kill her if not for Yan Chen''s calculated steps to trap her. Even if outmatched in the real world, she could entirely escape.


    Only someone like Yan Chen, who took advantage during Larilo''s moment of vulnerability, using an array to forcibly fuse her soul and body, could truly harm her.


    Initially, the "credit" for slaying a god was reserved for himself, but now someone else had picked the fruit. It was clear that someone had been watching him and Larilo for some time.


    Moreover, a Fourth-order Evil God that had fled into the Boundless Heart Sea, even if temporarily unable to merge with her main body, could still use the power of the main body.


    At the very least, it would take three Third-Order Peak Cataclysmics to have a chance against her...


    Thinking this, Yan Chen''s cloudy gaze flickered incessantly, and several names slowly emerged in his mind, ''Liu Xiongyuan... Ye Mingfeng... Tang Feifei...''


    When he thought of the last name, Yan Chen hesitated for a moment, then shook his head slightly, ''It shouldn''t be Tang Feifei. She''s setting a trap for me in Moonlight Forest tonight.''

 Chapter 279 Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ''So.....''


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen hesitated for a moment, ''Wang Hu?''


    After figuring out the three people who took action, Yan Chen''s smile on his face was somewhat ferocious. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His aged, deep voice echoed in the study room, "Good, good.... Two cities, four major forces join hands! All to scheme against me!"


    "This game is well played!"


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen couldn''t help but close his eyes, beginning to ponder who exactly initiated all this.


    Colonel Wang Hu from the Eastern City Military Department was a soldier through and through, with a strong rough-and-ready air about him. He would take advantage when possible, but he never stirred up trouble on his own. It likely wasn''t him.


    Ye Mingfeng of Xinjie City Military Department was arrogant and proud, conducting himself openly and honorably, never stooping to use overt schemes or underhanded tactics. He was driven by a strong will within, and for him, everything was about kill! Kill! Kill! It likely wasn''t him either.


    As for Tang Feifei... although intelligent, due to her family background, she preferred to use overt schemes and was not adept at employing sinister plots and tricks...


    So, calculating this way, it only left...


    ''Liu Xiongyuan?''


    Thinking of his old rival,


    Yan Chen''s brows slightly furrowed. Liu Xiongyuan indeed was an unconventional man. Perhaps due to his humble origins, he went to any lengths, regardless of the consequences, in whatever he did.


    But to put it bluntly... Yan Chen didn''t believe Liu Xiongyuan was the type to use such a Chain Plan.


    If he did have the brains for such a Chain Plan, Jia Wei wouldn''t have escaped for so many years; he would''ve been forced out long ago.


    ''Could there be someone else?''


    ''Is it some important figure weaving the threads, laying out the plan?''


    With this thought... Yan Chen''s brow tightened.


    Like that, after pondering for a full half-hour, Yan Chen still couldn''t figure out who could have united four Bureau Chief-level figures to set up such an intricate Chain Plan.


    It couldn''t be Qiu Tu, could it?


    Although Yan Chen also felt that Qiu Tu was somewhat suspicious, it wasn''t easy for Qiu Tu, a lowly detective with humble origins, to instigate a "coup" involving Tang Feifei. Experience tales with My Virtual Library Empire


    Was he to pull strings and have four Bureau Chiefs run around for his plan? Yan Chen found it unlikely...


    Especially since... the relationships between Tang Feifei, Liu Xiongyuan, and Ye Mingfeng could only be considered average at best, incapable of making introductions on behalf of Qiu Tu. How could Qiu Tu gain the trust of those three Bureau Chief-level figures?


    Even if Tang Feifei had avenged Liu Xiongyuan''s son, earning Liu Xiongyuan''s favor, but... with such a great accomplishment as slaying an Evil God, why wouldn''t Tang Feifei participate herself instead of letting others benefit?


    Wasn''t that making a wedding dress for someone else?


    Because of the false information previously provided by Qiu Tu, Yan Chen obviously didn''t know about the relationship between Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan.


    It was precisely the lack of this most critical piece of information in the mix that caused him to unknowingly brush past the truth of the matter...


    However, although he couldn''t figure out who was playing tricks, precisely for this reason, Yan Chen''s vigilance in his mind had been raised to the utmost.


    He was completely immersed in darkness, beginning to contemplate how to unravel this situation...


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    In Tang Feifei''s villa,


    Qiu Tu was holding Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored body, while secretly communicating with Liu Xiongyuan.


    On the other end of the communicator, Liu Xiongyuan was clearly ecstatic. A smile was almost uncontrollable on his tanned face.


    He laughed heartily, and then said, "Qiu Tu ah! You''re a damn genius!"


    "To actually calculate everything to such a degree!"


    "You don''t know how splendid Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu''s faces were when they found out Yan Chen really unlocked the Domain and let Larilo go!"


    "Plus, you haven''t fought against the Evil God. Their endless tricks and their ever-changing abilities are so hard to deal with!"


    "It''d be okay if we directly used heavy firepower, but if we went to handle it, it would just be a headache!"


    Saying this, Liu Xiongyuan''s tone changed, happily saying, "But today is different! Larilo''s consciousness was locked into that avatar by Yan Chen. After being devoured by Yan Chen for three or four days, it had already become extremely weak."


    "So, she could only unleash three or four tenths of her full strength, hardly a match for the three of us."


    "Therefore, we soon slew her!"


    At this point, Liu Xiongyuan was clearly pleased with himself, "This is slaying a God! In the entire Eighth Sanctuary, only a few people have achieved this feat!"


    "And I''ve accomplished it today!"


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s excited words, Tang Feifei''s beautiful eyes were shining brightly on the side.


    She was also a martial artist by training and actually longed for the kind of battle where one was evenly matched with an Evil God.


    Previously, she was merely engrossed in Qiu Tu''s intricately linked Chain Plan and overlooked the battle against the Evil God!


    Now, listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s words, the clear yellow in the depths of her eyes also seemed to be struggling to stay submerged.


    At that moment, as if Qiu Tu sensed her mood, he directly slapped her wheat-colored buttocks.


    Perhaps due to martial training, Tang Feifei''s buttocks were both perky and elastic.


    So the slap felt great to the touch.


    Tang Feifei frowned, suddenly turning to look at Qiu Tu like a fierce leopardess, a hint of danger flashing in her attractive eyes.


    Clearly... though her relationship with Qiu Tu was getting better, her dignity was not something Qiu Tu could so easily violate.


    Qiu Tu was actually using this to probe Tang Feifei, and seeing her sensitivity, he quickly pointed at the earpiece, indicating that now was not the time to be playful.


    Then, clearing his throat, he said to Liu Xiongyuan with a serious face, "Director Liu, don''t get too excited yet."


    "Actually... the reason I had you three go after Larilo was also for another purpose."

 Chapter 279 Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ``` Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    "It''s just, because I thought the chances of Yan Chen cutting off his arm to save the rest of his body were not that high, only sixty percent; and moreover, I wasn''t certain if the three of you could truly kill Larilo. So..... I didn''t tell you."


    By now, Qiu Tu had become an image of a strategic military advisor in Liu Xiongyuan''s mind.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu say this, he also instantly wiped the smile off his face, suppressed the excitement in his heart, and became serious once again.


    He asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Bureau Chief, actually, ever since our last meeting, I''ve always felt that we two got along very well."


    "Especially since you personally facilitated my meeting with Elder Wang, I could especially feel that caring heart of yours towards me."


    "So, after returning that evening, I kept thinking: Is there anything I can do for you, anything that might help you?" Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "At that time, I remembered what Elder Wang had said over the communicator. He said he was still trying to plan for your ascension to the position of Deputy Speaker. Although the hope was slim, he told you... not to give up easily."


    "At that moment, I thought, could I help you compete for the position of Deputy Speaker as well?"


    "Because I thought of the Deputy Speaker position, I couldn''t help but think of Yan Chen."


    "In that instant, it was as if a light bulb had turned on: Yan Chen could ascend to Fourth-order Cataclysmic and become Deputy Speaker by killing an Evil God."


    "So, if you also killed an Evil God and ascended to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, wouldn''t Huang Shangzong have no choice but to acknowledge you?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then continued, "Although I''m unclear if you can ascend to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic. But now..... the Evil God, I''ve taken care of that for you."


    "See if you can exchange some other benefits with General Ye and Colonel Wang to make the credit for the killing of the Evil God wholly yours."


    "The rest, whether you can ascend to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, will be your own issue to face."


    "I believe that, with Larilo''s fall, there must have been plenty of Cataclysmic Material left behind, and with your many years of accumulation, you must have more than Yan Chen. Ascending to Pseudo Fourth Order shouldn''t be impossible, right?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then said, "Of course, you certainly know more about these things than I do."


    "Everything is up to you to decide."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, whether it was Tang Feifei, who was glaring at Qiu Tu like a pantheress just a moment ago, or Liu Xiongyuan on the other end of the phone, both of them were stunned.


    They were both shocked by Qiu Tu''s bold plan!


    Yan Chen was set to become Deputy Speaker by ascending to Pseudo Fourth Order after killing an Evil God.


    And Liu Xiongyuan had already been designated for the Deputy Speaker position, but he was vetoed by Speaker Huang Shangzong.


    If Liu Xiongyuan now single-handedly took down an Evil God, and also ascended to Pseudo Fourth Order! Would Huang Shangzong still be able to veto Liu Xiongyuan, would he still be able to withstand that pressure?


    Would the entirety of Sanctuary''s upper echelons truly disregard an individual with accomplishments, capabilities, seniority, and strength like Liu Xiongyuan, just for the likes and dislikes of Huang Shangzong?!


    Moreover, Huang Shangzong may be a high-level figure in Sanctuary, but Elder Wang is as well. Liu Xiongyuan also has powerful backing and influence within Sanctuary.


    With such a breakthrough! He could very well regain the position of Deputy Speaker!


    "Genius....."


    Liu Xiongyuan muttered softly on the other end of the phone.


    But perhaps because the issue was too significant, he didn''t exhibit the same excitement or arrogance as before.


    He said to Qiu Tu with utmost calmness, "Qiu Tu, I won''t forget this huge favor you''ve done for me."


    "Right now, I need to talk things over with Old Ye and Hu Zi."


    "I believe they''ll be willing to give me this face."


    Saying this, Liu Xiongyuan paused, then continued, "If I really become Deputy Speaker, I will make sure to repay you."


    ----------


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    ```

 Chapter 280 Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    If Yan Chen had made this promise to Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu would have mostly taken it as a joke.


    After all, when it comes to what Yan Chen says, nobody knows how much is true and how much is false.


    If it were Tang Feifei who had made the promise to Qiu Tu, he would also keep it in mind, planning to use it if an opportunity arose, or disregard it if it didn''t. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, though Tang Feifei is someone who keeps her promises, she also carries the pride of a major family''s direct lineage: she would remember your favor, and if you sought her help, she would lend a hand.


    But if you didn''t seek her out, she wouldn''t regard you any differently because of the favor.


    After all... there were too many people willing to help her on a regular basis.


    But... this promise was made to Qiu Tu by Liu Xiongyuan!


    In this period of time, through interactions with Liu Xiongyuan and various pieces of intelligence, Qiu Tu had come to understand Liu Xiongyuan''s character traits.


    He was someone who would avenge wrongs as surely as he would repay kindness!


    Moreover, perhaps because he came from the lower strata, he had plotted meticulously and endured untold hardships to ascend every step of the way!


    Liu Xiongyuan had a standard measure for treating everyone.


    When you truly helped him out, he would always remember the favor and take the initiative to repay it.


    And because of this trait, he naturally classified the people around him into "different ranks."


    This wasn''t a derogatory remark, but a commendatory one. He could clearly discern who was one of his own, who was just an acquaintance, and who was an enemy.


    Once he considered you one of his own, he would even help you without expecting anything in return.


    This sense of "Jianghu loyalty" could only be found in someone who came from humble beginnings!


    Like the last time when Qiu Tu helped Liu Xiongyuan avenge his son, Qiu Tu had an issue, and Liu Xiongyuan rushed over to Xinjie City without hesitation.


    He even took the initiative to introduce Qiu Tu to Elder Wang.


    And to here, he didn''t even mention repaying a favor; all this was just part and parcel of his actions.


    The situation was the same this time. Now that Liu Xiongyuan had acknowledged this huge favor, once he truly became the Deputy Speaker,


    Qiu Tu would have a genuine insider at the upper echelons of the Dongye State Council!


    No matter what issues arose in the future, Liu Xiongyuan would stand up for Qiu Tu, and if there were benefits, Liu Xiongyuan would also actively fight for them on Qiu Tu''s behalf!


    And this... was precisely the result Qiu Tu was aiming for with all his plotting!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was not shy. He laughed and said, "Then, I must thank Director Liu for his generous affection in advance."


    "I await the good news from you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan "Ah"ed in response and said, "Stop calling me Bureau Chief all the time. Just call me Uncle Liu."


    A change in address, but it signified that Liu Xiongyuan truly regarded Qiu Tu as one of his own this time.


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    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t refuse and naturally called out, "Uncle Liu."


    Liu Xiongyuan laughed heartily, his pale eyebrows trembling along with his smile.


    It added a touch of liveliness and warmth to this small old man, who was as powerful and majestic as a thunder god.


    After laughing, he said, "Alright. I won''t chat anymore with you now. I''m going to get started on this matter right away."


    "Larilo''s divine body was slain by us, crystallizing into a divine body and transforming into the highest grade of Cataclysmic Material, the ''Boundless Divine Crystal.''


    "I''ll save two pieces for you, and will have someone deliver them to you in the next couple of days."


    "This highest grade of Cataclysmic Material is useful whether for refining the Cataclysmic Potion, crafting Cataclysmic treasures, or enhancing strength."


    "Keep them safe."


    Having arranged all this, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t linger and directly hung up the phone. He knew that it was best to act sooner rather than later, as a minute''s delay could mean a minute''s worth of unforeseen changes.


    Qiu Tu, however, didn''t mind. He had helped Liu Xiongyuan twice.


    The first time, Liu Xiongyuan had accepted him, but because of their limited interaction and Qiu Tu''s own agendas,


    Liu Xiongyuan did not consider him one of his own but as a benefactor, and extended some support and assistance.


    But this time, since everything was initiated for the sake of Liu Xiongyuan, and Qiu Tu exhibited his capabilities through a tight sequence of strategic maneuvers,


    Liu Xiongyuan fully acknowledged Qiu Tu, not only treating him as one of his own but also as a junior to be nurtured.


    With such a transformation, the better Liu Xiongyuan developed, the greater the benefits for Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu wished nothing more than for Liu Xiongyuan to immediately negotiate terms with Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu; to be promoted to Pseudo Fourth Order immediately; to become the Deputy Speaker at once.


    Your own efforts count for little; letting your "boss" work hard to take you soaring is the true path to success!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, who had executed all his plans perfectly today, hummed a tune happily, put away his special communicator, and prepared to sleep.


    But just as he put away the communicator, Qiu Tu looked up and saw Tang Feifei''s aggressive gaze.


    She was naked, her hands propped on either side of Qiu Tu''s body, watching him with those predatory eyes, full of wildness.


    Her healthy, wheat-colored face was filled with danger and desire.


    Qiu Tu was startled and scooted back like a little lamb, "Director, please compose yourself!"


    Tang Feifei, upon hearing this, pounced on him even more ferociously!


    With a forward leap, she pinned Qiu Tu to the bed and pressed his head onto her ample and resilient twin peaks!


    She then applied a cross-lock, a technique from grappling, constricting Qiu Tu''s neck, and said with a mix of threat and coquettishness, "Is that old guy Liu Xiongyuan more interesting than me?"


    "You plan so diligently for him but not for me?"


    Her voice was exceptionally icy, "The Evil God didn''t let me fight, the Deputy Speaker didn''t let me become one. Just left me to do the hard labor."

 Chapter 280 Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Are you really mine, or are you his?"


    Trapped inside Yue Xiong by Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu experienced a facial cleanser unlike anything Fang Tangtang had to offer.


    Plus, Tang Feifei''s beautiful wheat-colored skin.


    Oddly, a new descriptor popped into Qiu Tu''s mind: chocolate milk?


    While daydreaming to himself, Qiu Tu hurried to explain, "Feifei, it''s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding."


    "We''re definitely on the same side. But... your rank''s a bit low, and even if I help you, you can''t become Deputy Speaker."


    "So, it''s better if we first help Uncle Liu."


    "You heard him too, he said he would remember our favor."


    "Once he gets promoted, won''t your appointment come soon?"


    In truth, both understood the logic in Qiu Tu''s words, but... Tang Feifei clearly just wanted to take the opportunity to erupt!


    Therefore, she keenly caught the inappropriateness in Qiu Tu''s words.


    With a "hehe" laugh, she coldly said, "My position is low?"


    "Okay, great. You''ve revealed your true thoughts, huh?"


    "No problem, my position may be low, but it''s still two ranks above yours!"


    "Tonight, I''ll let you experience what it means when one rank trumps the rest!"


    "Come on! Get up and practice martial arts!"


    With that, Tang Feifei flipped over, Ma Qi on top of Qiu Tu, and then began her conquest of Qiu Tu!


    And what could Qiu Tu do? He could only sip on chocolate milk and try to keep up...


    Maybe Tang Feifei was slightly angry, for this time she guided Qiu Tu''s martial arts without holding back a bit!


    Thus, that night, Qiu Tu truly got trained without any temper left...


    Rain fell "whooshing" outside the window.


    As if cleansing the whole of Xinjie City.


    And amidst that "whooshing" rain, a pale green phantom, only visible through "Spiritual Vision," flashed across Xinjie City...


    If one slowed down her speed a few times and observed closely, they would find it was none other than the fallen Larilo...


    "What the hell is up with that old man! Eight-arm Lei Gong?! Manifesting a divine body!"


    "He smashed my Divine Body with his bare hands?!"


    "Isn''t that a bit exaggerated?!"


    "Even if I''m not at my peak, this is still way too exaggerated, right?"


    "Is he the Evil God, or am I the Evil God?!"


    "#@%*!"


    "What path is he really on?!"


    After cursing a few times in her heart, Larilo hovered in the air, cautiously looking around.


    "Luckily... if there''s one thing I don''t have, it''s a strong vitality."


    "Even if my Divine Body is shattered, and I no longer possess the status of a Fourth Order Cataclysmic, nor do I have a Domain or various powers."


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    "But... at least I''m still alive!"


    The continuous blows from the last few days clearly stretched her spirit taut, to the point she began to mutter to herself.


    "Moreover, not only am I alive, but I also have that damned sister!"


    "As long as I sustain my consciousness, get through these days."


    "I can find a chance to contact her!"


    "With her around, just a few bites off her and returning to my peak isn''t a dream!" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this thought, Larilo''s sanguine eyes were filled with an evil gleam, "By then! I must dismember those four who plotted against me! Hurt me! Into pieces and scatter their ashes to the wind!"


    Thinking this, Larilo took a deep breath. Then, with her eyes closed, she sensed the "Reproduction" power of the path she was on...


    Shortly, she abruptly opened her eyes, looking towards a nondescript villa among a cluster not too far away.


    ''A normal person rejuvenated many times by a Second Order Cataclysmic?''


    ''Just lost her virginity, turned into a woman?''


    ''But without traces of a Cataclysmic nearby?''


    ''There''s Reproduction power, but low danger?''


    Feeling that aura, Larilo hesitated.


    Truth be told, her current self only had her consciousness left, her soul in such fragility it couldn''t withstand any turbulence.


    If she didn''t find a suitable possession target before the sunrise, then she might truly fall completely.


    But the problem was... the requirements for her possession target were rather stringent:


    It had to be a normal person and must have "Reproduction" related power¡ªthat is, the person must have fused with a Cataclysmic!


    Only then could she recover swiftly.


    More troublesome was... the Cataclysmic had to meet a certain strength criterion. A Third Order Cataclysmic wouldn''t do because just a scan from one could likely detect Larilo.


    A First Order might barely do, but the recovery would be slow.


    So, the best option was a Second Order Cataclysmic: they wouldn''t detect her but could quickly restore her power.


    Therefore, this target was truly top-notch.


    It was only after much difficulty and a long search through Xinjie City that she finally encountered it.


    But what made her hesitate was... she was too familiar with the owner of that aura: Qiu Tu.


    To be honest, in the vast Xinjie City, there were really only two people that Larilo felt wary or afraid of.


    One was Yan Chen, and the other was Qiu Tu.


    The former calculated her like a dog, nearly killing her in his Domain. The latter was like drinking water when it came to tricking people, more adept than she, an Evil God, at beguiling hearts.


    And, whether it was the Evil God''s sixth sense or not, she always felt like Qiu Tu had a hand in tonight''s ambush.


    So, at her weakest, she really didn''t want to interact with Qiu Tu, fearing being calculated by him.


    It''s just... she had already been carefully moving throughout Xinjie City for an entire night. Her consciousness was growing weaker by the moment and couldn''t hold on much longer.


    And most importantly... there were a few Third Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City. Larilo had been very careful to avoid them.

 Chapter 280 Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    But if she continued searching like this, once they met, Larilo might completely disperse¡ªsoul and spirit shattered.


    Thinking this, Larilo hesitated for a long time before biting the bullet, stomping her foot, and flying straight toward the villa!


    Soon, she passed through the walls and entered the bedroom of the villa.


    There, a beautiful girl slept.


    She had a delicate, pretty oval face, fair skin, long eyelashes, and pouty lips.


    Even though Qiu Tu had awakened her powers, her face still retained the innocence and naivety of a young girl.


    Seeing the girl''s beautiful appearance and aura, Larilo''s eyes lit up slightly: What a gem.


    No wonder Qiu Tu hadn''t taken the bait despite her sending so many women to seduce him¡ªhe had been hiding and enjoying something better.


    Thinking this, Larilo couldn''t help but take another look at the girl''s figure.


    When she saw the facial cleanser that drove Qiu Tu crazy, Larilo clicked her tongue in her mind and then criticized:


    This girl definitely can''t weigh over 61, after all, kids don''t have an E cup at 36.


    However, it was precisely because of her innocent appearance and tempting figure that Larilo believed Qiu Tu would definitely not "let go" of this girl.


    Instead, he would come by every now and then to "reproduce" with her!


    So, if she just possessed this girl and absorbed the power of "reproduction", soon she would be able to strengthen her own consciousness and then reach out to her sister to be reborn...


    At this, Larilo no longer hesitated and attached herself to Fang Tangtang, possessing Fang Tangtang''s body.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to sense something in her sleep. Her lovely brows furrowed slightly, then she turned over and finally fell back into a deep sleep...


    ''This girl''s Spiritual Perception is quite high... She seems to have the potential to become a Cataclysmic,'' Larilo thought silently to herself, but even with a life full of ups and downs, Larilo couldn''t hold on any longer and slowly fell asleep...


    But what she didn''t know was,


    After she fell asleep, a pair of giant eyes suddenly opened in the pitch-black sky above Xinjie City.


    The pupils of the giant eyes spanned across the sky of Xinjie City, almost as large as half the city itself!


    The giant eye had three rings, each encircling the next, making it look exceptionally cold, powerful, and as if it scorned all life with the indifference of a god.


    In fact, that was exactly the case!


    With just one glance, the hearts of all Third Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City felt as if they were being squeezed¡ªsuddenly tightening!


    Many Third Order Cataclysmics who were asleep suddenly woke up, then looked up at the sky with fearful faces!


    And Ye Mingfeng, Tang Feifei, Dai Yukang, Yan Chen, and a few other peak Third Order Cataclysmics, simultaneously erupted with their aura, instantly getting into combat mode!


    Sensing that immense crisis, the alarms of the Security Department shrieked endlessly! Numerous Security Department specialists scrambled to their feet!


    They started making phone calls, mobilizing large-scale weaponry!


    This... was the deterrent power of the Fifth-order Evil God Zhao Ji.


    Luckily, Zhao Ji had only taken one look and did not say anything before leaving Xinjie City.


    It was as if... she really just came to have a look.


    However, after she left, the upper echelons of Xinjie City could no longer sleep.


    Soon, an investigative report led by the intelligence branch of the Security Department, headed by Qin Shuman, was placed before the city''s elite.


    In the report, the Security Department speculated that Larilo''s fall might have caught the attention of Zhao Ji. Explore stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    With Larilo''s fetters and restrictions gone, this most powerful Evil God of the Planning Area might be preparing to extend her influence¡ªnamely, to swallow Xinjie City.


    This time, she clearly only tested the waters.


    Besides, in Qin Shuman''s report, based on Zhao Ji''s actions, she boldly theorized: Although Larilo had fallen, she might not have died but could be hidden somewhere in Xinjie City...


    --------


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 Chapter 281 Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    In Qin Shuman''s report, Zhao Ji''s actions this time were clearly very unusual, completely different from the previous invasions by evil gods.


    Previously, if an evil god took an interest in a place, they would most likely engage in fierce battle with the evil god of that region directly.


    The victor would extend their domain, enveloping the region corresponding to the city in the "Boundless Heart Sea," and begin to infiltrate their power.


    Even if an evil god of a certain region were to suddenly fall, creating a power vacuum in that area, the first arriving evil god would typically claim it directly.


    After all, evil gods are not the same as ordinary Cataclysmic Creatures. Their sources of power come not only from practicing their own "Path," but also from two other major channels.


    One is harvesting the faith of followers; the other is controlling regions in the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    The "Boundless Heart Sea" is the world of the mind, and all the splendor within this world is shaped by the thoughts and musings of the beings from the real world.


    Thus, the world is power itself!


    The more regions of the Boundless Heart Sea one controls, the stronger one''s power becomes.


    So, if Larilo truly fell, then as an evil god, Zhao Ji would definitely start to infiltrate and seize the region of Xinjie City.


    But she did not do so; she merely glanced at it, left her aura, and then departed.


    Her actions seemed less like she wanted to occupy Xinjie City and more like she was deterring other evil gods.


    Later, combining the intelligence from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau that "Larilo and Zhao Ji are very likely to be related," Qin Shuman deduced that although Larilo had fallen, she probably wasn''t dead.


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    She was likely clinging to consciousness and a sliver of her soul, struggling to survive.


    Qin Shuman reasoned that Zhao Ji came to Xinjie City probably because she discovered Larilo''s fall and wanted to check on it.


    If Larilo was truly dead, she would have taken over Xinjie City.


    But now, discovering that Larilo hadn''t fallen, she left her own aura to deter surrounding evil gods, covered for Larilo, and then left on her own.


    Qin Shuman''s deductions were well-founded.


    Therefore, most of the higher-ups agreed with this investigative report. This also allowed them to relax a bit.


    After all, having just taken down a Larilo, if another Zhao Ji were to arrive, the hearts of Xinjie City''s upper echelons would probably be in their throats again! S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, with Zhao Ji''s invasion unlikely in the short term, they could breathe a little easier.


    However, what nobody knew was that Qin Shuman''s report actually... had two versions....


    The first version was the one submitted to the higher-ups of the three major institutions of Xinjie City.


    The second version was only submitted to Dai Yukang, the head of the Security Department, and..... secretly copied and given to Qiu Tu.


    The second version of the report was largely the same as the first.


    But at the end, Qin Shuman daringly proposed a "fighting evil gods with an evil god" strategy.


    She believed that since Larilo was now weak and had the protection of the Great Evil God Zhao Ji,


    Then... could they not secretly find Larilo, then control her?


    Prevent her from recovering, yet not let her perish completely.


    By using the existence of her remaining aura, they could have Zhao Ji come by occasionally to spread her aura, deterring other evil gods.


    As a result, Xinjie City might enjoy an unprecedentedly peaceful era free from evil god corruption.


    And what''s more crucial, the area corresponding to Xinjie City in the Yinxin Sea would be temporarily without a master.


    For the portions of the "Boundless Heart Sea" already dominated by evil gods, this was an extremely rare state.


    Thus, the Security Department could absolutely apply to the Sanctuary.


    Requesting the Sanctuary to allocate experts, technicians, and some high-level Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolvers to jointly study this region.


    To discover the secrets of the origin of the "Boundless Heart Sea," the source of Catastrophe Power.


    And also... to investigate whether human catastrophe-evolvers could control regions like evil gods, enhancing their own powers!


    Although all the major Sanctuaries had been researching this topic for the past two years, due to the rarity of opportunities like the one presented by Xinjie City, progress had been consistently slow.


    The higher ranking Sanctuaries with stronger capabilities could even establish a foothold in the "Boundless Heart Sea" amidst evil gods to conduct research.


    But the lower ranking Sanctuaries had absolutely no chance at all.


    And now, the chance had come for the Eighth Sanctuary!


    The second version of Qin Shuman''s report was both bold and feasible,


    Keenly seizing this once-in-a-millennium opportunity.


    So when Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau the next day, and read Qin Shuman''s report in his office, he was immediately impressed by her ingenious idea.


    However, he clearly identified two key issues with the plan.


    So after carefully studying the report, he set it aside, locked his office door, and then took out a specially made Communicator to phone Qin Shuman.


    "Beep.... Beep..... Beep....."


    Qin Shuman was obviously busy on the other end, so the phone kept ringing seven or eight times without being answered.


    Qiu Tu was not in a hurry; he knew that after the incident of Zhao Ji''s nocturnal raid on Xinjie City last night, Qin Shuman, as the head of the Security Department''s intelligence system, must be extremely busy now.


    So he hangs up the call, patiently waiting for Qin Shuman''s response.

 Chapter 281 Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Like that, after more than ten minutes had passed, Qiu Tu''s specially designed communicator finally rang.


    Qiu Tu picked up the communicator and answered the call. Immediately, Qin Shuman''s voice, carrying a hint of elegance and seduction, came through the receiver,


    "Hello? Minister Qiu~~?"


    "It seems... you''re quite interested in my ''Evil God Capture Plan''~ You called me as soon as you got to work."


    Just by listening to Qin Shuman''s sweet voice, Qiu Tu could almost visualize her tall and lithe figure.


    She seemed to be standing in front of Qiu Tu with her hands behind her back, her eyes forming beautiful crescents as if she were smiling-but-not-smiling at him.


    Qiu Tu "looked" at Qin Shuman''s figure and then, smiling, said, "Your plan, I guess no one would be uninterested in it."


    "But, I believe you probably haven''t shown it to many people, have you?"


    At the other end of the line, Qin Shuman was standing in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows of her office.


    Her hair casually piled at the back of her head, she looked both capable and elegant. Dressed in a grass-green military uniform, she stood tall and resolute, her eyes like autumn waters gazing confidently out the window... S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She said with a laugh, "Indeed. I only showed it to Director Dai and you."


    "Director Dai was very interested and then ordered me to form a new search system at the core of the intelligence system, drawing personnel from the military''s various departments and the Security Department''s different sections, and then to secretly search for Larilo''s whereabouts."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help chuckling and then said, "You all are moving too fast."


    Standing upright in front of the window, Qin Shuman confidently and unhurriedly said, "We can''t afford to be slow. Nobody knows how long it will take for Larilo to revive."


    "And..." she paused, whispering, "Do you think only Yan Chen and Liu Xiongyuan are eyeing up the positions in the newfound parliament of Dongye State?"


    "General Ye and Director Dai have also been paying a lot of attention and trying hard."


    "If they really do capture Larilo, they will suddenly have an important chip in their hands."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, though slightly surprised, was not taken aback.


    If he remembered correctly, Tang Feifei had once analyzed for him that Ye Mingfeng represented the ''Young faction'' within the military. Find adventures on My Virtual Library Empire


    With a military rank that was within the top three of the soon-to-be-established Dongye State, and the other two also being majors, it was logical for him to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker.


    As for Dai Yukang, he was a powerful figure within the Security Department system. With the establishment of Dongye State, someone was bound to become the top dog of the entire Security Department structure.


    His interest was also very understandable.


    However... this plan, once successful, would indeed bring them huge political wealth, but Qiu Tu had not forgotten his purpose for calling: there were still two key issues in the plan that had not been resolved.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask the question he was curious about.


    He said, "Your plan is sound, but... to capture Larilo, you''ll need to capture her Cataclysmic treasures and find her location, right?"


    "How are you planning to resolve these two issues?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed.


    Her nose bridge was prominent, and when she smiled, she looked very elegant, "So, this is where I need Minister Qiu''s help~~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu curiously asked, "My help? How can I help?"


    Qin Shuman said earnestly, "Larilo''s important cultists have all been killed or captured by the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department."


    "Now I believe only two are still alive, Zheng Tao and Bai Yu."


    "Bai Yu''s rank is too high, and it would be too much pressure for you to deal with him. But Zheng Tao... I remember his Evil God Cultist identity has not yet been exposed..."


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman was exceedingly close, and since they were both heads of the intelligence system, they often exchanged intelligence during this period.


    So, with just a word from Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately understood what she meant:


    Qin Shuman wanted Qiu Tu to downplay the issue, to find an excuse to release Zheng Tao.


    Later, the Security Department would secretly take Zheng Tao away, and then use the Evil God''s Mark on his body to track down Larilo''s whereabouts.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember the promise he made to Tan Huimin.


    Back then, Tan Huimin had consumed lots of his provisions just so he would let Zheng Tao off the hook.


    Qiu Tu''s original plan was to release Zheng Tao once Yan Chen emerged from seclusion and have Yan Chen deal with Zheng Tao.


    Now that the Security Department wanted to take over, it wouldn''t be a problem to hand him over.


    After all... no matter what, he was set to be the good guy!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate to agree, "No problem, I will approve the case today and release Zheng Tao."


    With that, Qiu Tu cautioned, "But you need to be discreet in your actions, don''t sell me out."


    Qiu Tu''s joyful ascent clearly delighted Qin Shuman. She said with a laugh, "Don''t worry, Minister Qiu~~ We''ll be careful not to give you any trouble."


    "Plus, once we really capture Larilo, we will recognize your contributions as well."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but reply with a smile, "Then, that''s great."


    He joked further, "Who knows, during the capture of Larilo, you might even trace the vine to find more people involved with her."


    "After all, she''s facing a life-and-death crisis and is so weak now, she will inevitably choose a place she deems safe."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman covered her mouth and giggled covertly, "All right, all right, any merits will be shared with you."


    After that, the two discussed issues related to the capture of the Evil God for a while longer.

 Chapter 281 Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    According to Qin Shuman, the Sanctuary possesses a special Cataclysmic treasure that is designed to bind consciousness and soul.


    Dai Yukang has already rushed to apply to the Sanctuary, and it is estimated that it will arrive within three days.


    The Security Department is preparing to use the Evil God''s Mark on Zheng Tao''s body in the next two days to track Larilo''s whereabouts, gradually narrow down the range, and lock down the target.


    After that, when the Cataclysmic treasure arrives, they will start the operation.


    If they really succeed in capturing Larilo, Dai Yukang will, together with Ye Mingfeng, jointly recommend Qin Shuman''s plan to the higher-ups.


    By then, Xinjie City might just become one of the most important research bases for the Eighth Sanctuary.


    Even just hearing Qin Shuman''s plan, Qiu Tu could imagine how significant this achievement would be.


    He felt that if this plan really came to fruition, Ye Mingfeng might indeed have a chance to become the second Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, and Dai Yukang might become the head of Security Department across the several cities of the state.


    As for Qin Shuman, there was no need to mention her.


    With such a great accomplishment, she might rise to the top in one step, possibly even becoming the head of Xinjie City''s Security Department.


    Originally, Qiu Tu felt that climbing several ranks within a few months was already quite impressive.


    But when he thought of Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, Dai Yukang, and Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu realized... his own progress might actually be a bit slow?


    Searching for a reason, Qiu Tu blamed it all on Yan Chen.


    It must be that bastard Yan Chen holding back his promotion!


    He too should think of a way to plan ahead and see if he could get another promotion upon the establishment of Dongye State....


    Although he began to brew his own promotion plans in his heart, Qiu Tu still didn''t forget the promises he made to Qin Shuman and Tan Huimin.


    So... after hanging up the communicator with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately called Tan Huimin and, with no expression on his face, handed her a blank interrogation record.


    Tan Huimin was obviously a bit baffled. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    Yet Qiu Tu just looked at her indifferently and said, "You interrogated Director Zheng Tao the other day, but no written record was made."


    "Could you please complete the record?"


    "I will determine Director Zheng''s responsibility based on this record."


    "If he really was coerced and instructed by Bai Yu, and didn''t truly want to frame me, I think... the Inspection Department could at most hand him a suspension for reflection."


    "He could go home tonight."


    Qiu Tu''s words were almost an unmistakable hint: releasing Zheng Tao was possible, but Tan Huimin had to make a false testimony herself.


    How shrewd Qiu Tu was, there was no way he would let such dirty work tarnish his hands.


    That way, if Zheng Tao really got into trouble in the future, it would be Tan Huimin''s fault, not because Qiu Tu released someone privately.


    Watching Tan Huimin go to write the record, Qiu Tu picked up the documents in his hand, ready to deal with the day''s official duties first.


    The Moonlight Lake has been successfully formed; all the work of the Investigation Bureau is now revolving around Moonlight Lake!


    Therefore, all intelligence work from the Political Department is also about Moonlight Lake.


    Qiu Tu took a cursory glance, felt there was not much of interest, and then put it aside.


    He always felt that Moonlight Lake was far less valuable than Larilo.


    If they could really get their hands on Larilo, it might well be worth ten Moonlight Lakes.


    The only pity was that now that Larilo had fallen, nobody knew where she was hiding... even the Security Department had to use special means to find her.


    So, Qiu Tu could only think about it.


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was contemplating this, suddenly, his communicator rang.


    Qiu Tu picked it up and saw it was a text message from Fang Tangtang.


    This girl, since following Qiu Tu, has actually always been very sensible, hardly ever disturbing him. For her to find him today was almost a rare occasion? S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu was also somewhat curious about what the girl wanted with him.


    So, he opened the message and glanced at it.


    The content of the message was only one line: Qiu Tu, are you coming home for dinner tonight? I specially learned to make milk-flavored buns, and I''ll steam them for you in the evening¡­.


    -------

 Chapter 282 Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Seeing the somewhat ambiguous text message, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile and shake his head.


    Actually, his feelings toward Fang Tangtang had always been a bit awkward.


    After all, she was the first woman in this world to have taken his virginity.


    But...because it was a political marriage, he had always kept a certain distance from Fang Tangtang in his heart.


    To put it bluntly, even Tan Huimin, the beautiful married woman whom Qiu Tu always flirted with and seduced, likely aroused more desire in him.


    After all, this kind of "desire" was much purer, not mixed with any personal gain.


    However...it had to be said that Fang Tangtang was indeed a top-notch girl.


    Exquisite features, a palm-sized oval face, watery big eyes that could capture any man''s heart; and that innocent appearance, childish speech, and just-adult age could effectively arouse a man''s conquering desire.


    And most importantly, her figure that made most girls envious, with E-cup advantages, really made Qiu Tu somewhat unable to stop himself.


    So, every day Qiu Tu was caught in an endless cycle:


    She is a product of political marriage, not pure, just have fun with her¡ªdamn, this is really fun though!


    ¡ªPolitical marriage, political marriage, too complicated background, don''t get emotionally involved¡ªjeez, isn''t she tempting?!


    What''s more interesting is that everyone knew this was a political marriage where interests outweighed emotions, but only Fang Tangtang seemed unaware.


    These days, she really seemed to believe she was in a relationship with Qiu Tu, so she clumsily expressed her love to him all the time.


    Moreover, she might have noticed Qiu Tu''s obsession with her. So Fang Tangtang had also been using this to please Qiu Tu.


    Like the text message today...Fang Tangtang was no little girl; after being nourished by Qiu Tu, how could she not know the hidden meaning of that message.


    Yet she was...using this transparent method to clumsily seduce Qiu Tu, trying to get him to come home.


    That was the reason for Qiu Tu''s amusement.


    However, Qiu Tu had been very busy with work these past two days, and he wasn''t even sure when he''d be able to return.


    Plus, it had been several days since he last saw Shen Lingshuang.


    So thinking of this, Qiu Tu still politely declined the girl''s eager invitation.


    "Tomorrow night," he replied.


    With a simple three words, the girl almost immediately replied, "Don''t work too hard, take care of your health, I''ll wait for you to come home tomorrow night."


    ''Come home...''


    Having lived through two lives, this term had somehow become a bit unfamiliar to Qiu Tu.


    So, he admitted that in that moment, his heart inexplicably seemed to be touched... S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Putting down the communicator, Qiu Tu slightly shook his head and then buried that fleeting emotion deep in his heart.


    Even though his situation was much better now than when he first arrived in this world, it couldn''t be denied that he was still surrounded by crises.


    He didn''t have the time to indulge in romance.


    Women only slowed down the speed at which he drew his gun.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu continued to deal with his work.


    After handling work for more than an hour, Tan Huimin finally returned to Qiu Tu''s office with the revised confession document.


    A married woman always understands men best, so this time when she arrived at the office, her shirt collar was noticeably unbuttoned a little more.


    The already slightly loose shirt revealed much more with a simple bend...


    Somehow, Qiu Tu felt that if Tan Huimin were to serve him, it would likely be very comfortable.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered for two seconds before he reached out to take the confession document from Tan Huimin''s hands.


    He quickly read through the document in his hands.


    The confession detailed the full process of how Zheng Tao claimed to have been coerced by Secretary Bai to frame Qiu Tu.


    At the end of the interrogation record, where the investigator''s signature should be, was Tan Huimin''s name.


    Qiu Tu, with his hand supporting his cheek, pondered for a moment, then pointed to the signature area and said, "To prevent collusion, every interrogation must have two officers present."


    "Add another name."


    Tan Huimin, hearing his words, dug out a pen from the deep cleavage of her blouse, then bent over to ask, "Whose name should I add?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Ji Chen."


    Tan Huimin recalled for a moment, seeming to have some impression of this officer¡ªwasn''t he Yan Chen''s confidant?


    Although she didn''t understand why Qiu Tu wanted to use this name, with her husband''s release only a step away, she obediently took up the pen and signed "Ji Chen" again.


    Even to ensure that the signature didn''t look too obviously false, she deliberately made it a bit more sloppy to differentiate it from her own handwriting.


    After doing all this, Tan Huimin handed the confession document back to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the document, checked it again, then nodded before opening his drawer, taking out his official seal, and stamped it onto the paper!


    With the Deputy Minister Qiu Tu''s official seal stamped on it, the confession document became effective.


    Immediately after, Qiu Tu took out a closing case report and a punishment document, guiding Tan Huimin to fill them all out.


    Once all this was done, Qiu Tu "smack! smack!" stamped his seal twice more and then handed the two documents to Tan Huimin, saying plainly, "It''s all settled. You can take these to release your husband." Explore stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, with tears brimming in her eyes, took the documents and bowed deeply to Qiu Tu, "Thank you, sir! Thank you!"


    "Rest assured, once Ah-Tao safely leaves Xinjie City, I''ll make sure to clean myself up and lie down obediently on your bed."


    After saying these embarrassing words, she blushed, turned around, and prepared to leave the office to release Zheng Tao.

 Chapter 282 Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Just then, Qiu Tu suddenly spoke, "Stop."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min''s body tensed up, then she slowly turned around, slightly "confused" as to why Qiu Tu would call out to her.


    Then she saw Qiu Tu stand up expressionlessly, walk over to her, and then pulled her into his embrace.


    Tan Hui Min tried to struggle, and even lowered her voice to plea quietly, "Officer, please... not here."


    But Qiu Tu acted as if he didn''t hear, his hand directly reaching under Tan Hui Min''s clothes.


    Tan Hui Min grabbed his hand, her face full of humiliation and anger.


    Yet Qiu Tu unmercifully shook off her hand and reached in.


    The next second, Qiu Tu pulled out a small tape recorder from under Tan Hui Min''s skirt.


    The tape in the small recorder was still spinning, obviously still on.


    At the sight of the small tape recorder, Tan Hui Min''s face turned deathly pale. The anger and humiliation on her face vanished.


    Qiu Tu looked at her coldly.


    Then with a "snap!" he threw the small tape recorder onto the ground, shattering it!


    Tan Hui Min, disheveled, now had no courage to speak. All she could do was desperately try to hide the documents in her hands behind her back.


    Qiu Tu looked at her expressionlessly and coldly ordered, "Kneel."


    Upon hearing this, Tan Hui Min, although full of sorrow and anger, eventually knelt down humiliated. Read exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu bent down, touched her fair face, and asked with apparent confusion, "Madam, why do you always like to create complications at the last minute?"


    Kneeling on the ground, Tan Hui Min frantically tried to explain, "It''s not like that, not like that...."


    "I, I just...."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Qiu Tu interrupted, "Just wanted to have a contingency plan? Have something to hold over me?"


    "To prevent me from truly demanding compensation, having something to control me with? Or perhaps... if someone were to investigate this case, you could drag me down with you?"


    Qiu Tu clearly struck a nerve with Tan Hui Min. Her face turned red with exertion, shaking her head repeatedly.


    But by that time, Qiu Tu no longer wanted to hear Tan Hui Min''s explanations.


    He loosened his belt, simply staring at Tan Hui Min, the implication clear as day.


    Tan Hui Min looked up at Qiu Tu with humiliation, her expression changing continuously, but in the end, she bowed her head....


    Half an hour later, Qiu Tu held Tan Hui Min''s heavy Yue Xiong piece and shuddered.


    "Cough cough," Tan Hui Min turned her head, covering her mouth, nearly choking.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu released his hand, giving her a dark, unfathomable glance, then finally buckled his belt and returned to his desk.


    Seeing Qiu Tu let her go, Tan Hui Min finally breathed a sigh of relief, hurriedly got up, and walked towards the exit.


    However, just as she stepped out of the office, Qiu Tu called out to her again, "Madam."


    By now, Tan Hui Min was truly afraid of hearing these two words.


    But when Qiu Tu called her, she had no choice but to stop and stand still.


    Qiu Tu said expressionlessly, "Wait for me under my desk tomorrow morning."


    Tan Hui Min''s face flushed red, her fists clenched tightly.


    But in the end, she just gave an "Mhm" and quickly walked out of the office.


    After the office door slowly closed, Qiu Tu stood quietly for a while, then went over to the shattered tape recorder, picked up its remnants, took out the cassette, tore it up, and threw it into the trash can.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu returned to his desk, pondering the recent events.


    In fact, with his personality, he would not normally let Tan Hui Min off so easily under normal circumstances. But now the overall situation was more pressing; he and Qin Shuman still needed Zheng Tao to investigate Larilo.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked towards the door of the office and softly muttered to himself,


    ''No rush... this piece of meat must be eaten slowly.''


    .....


    With the order signed by Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao was quickly released.


    Since the relationship between the two hadn''t been made public, Tan Hui Min didn''t show much excitement, only her eyes reddening a bit as she looked at him.


    And for some reason, Zheng Tao seemed to be preoccupied with thoughts, just looking down and not even making eye contact with Tan Hui Min....


    After seeing Zheng Tao leave the Investigation Bureau, Tan Hui Min seemed to relax, as if a burden had been lifted from her shoulders.


    She turned and went back into the Investigation Bureau to resume her busy work....


    What she didn''t know, though, sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    was that not far from the Investigation Bureau, several military-dressed security officers from the Security Department found Zheng Tao.


    They showed him an arrest warrant signed by Dai Yu Kang, and without even giving Zheng Tao a chance to react, they handcuffed him and stuffed him into the car.


    But Zheng Tao seemed to have anticipated such an event, offering almost no resistance, and was taken away calmly by the Security Department''s people.


    .....


    An afternoon passed in the blink of an eye.


    This afternoon was eerily calm.


    Liu Xiongyuan did not advance to Fourth Order, Yan Chen did not seek revenge on Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, and Ye Mingfeng''s group did not openly search for Larilo....


    The big shots sat down and had a good talk, reallocated the shares of Moonlight Lake.


    Finally, the profit distribution was renegotiated in the ratio of 3:2.5:2.5:2.


    Most notably, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau''s share grew from the original 20% to 30%.


    While both Xinjie City Military Department and Eastern City Investigation Bureau gave up 5% each.


    The reason cited for this concession, of course, was Tang Feifei''s dramatic intervention, which saved Moonlight Lake.

 Chapter 282 Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    But in reality, only the higher-ups knew that this was a form of compensation and concession.


    ¡ªYan Chen had already suffered enough, almost to the point of being barefooted; and with Liu Xiongyuan and his two companions stepping on his shoulders to kill Larilo, if Yan Chen didn''t receive any compensation, he might actually flip the table.


    Thus, the benefit division of Moonlight Lake was concluded.


    After clocking out, Qiu Tu didn''t ask his driver to take him home but instead drove himself to the Security Department to meet with Qin Shuman.


    And Qin Shuman showed Qiu Tu how to use Zheng Tao, the Evil God Cultist, to track Larilo in return.


    It was a Cataclysmic treasure known as the "Homologous Compass."


    The function of this Cataclysmic treasure was straightforward; it could target a specific power and then guide the user to the direction of the homologous power.


    Such Cataclysmic treasures were usually utilized for mining veins or searching for precious Cataclysmic Material. But they were also remarkably effective in tracking down Evil Gods.


    Hence, the search team from the Security Department, carrying Zheng Tao with them, began their operation from the center of Xinjie City and started searching outward.


    Using a Cataclysmic treasure for such a search was both tedious and dull.


    Every 1.5 hours, the search team would use the Homologous Compass and then start halving Larilo''s potential range.


    But because Xinjie City was so vast, they only managed to reduce the area to one thirty-second of its entirety after an entire night.


    But let''s not forget, the total area of Xinjie City is a whopping 11,200 square kilometers. Even one thirty-second of it is still 350 square kilometers.


    This search might take an age to complete.


    Finding it extremely dull, Qiu Tu didn''t continue with the operation and, after greeting Qin Shuman, left the Security Department.


    Your next chapter is on My Virtual Library Empire


    He drove towards Longshan Road.


    After several rounds of security checks, Qiu Tu entered Longshan Road.


    He checked the time; it was already 11 p.m.


    Hesitating momentarily, Qiu Tu ultimately couldn''t bear to disturb Shen Lingshuang, so he turned the car around and headed to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    He arrived at the villa''s courtyard and parked the car.


    A few bodyguards greeted him.


    Recognizing Qiu Tu, they quickly spoke into their walkie-talkies and then hurried back into the darkness.


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind and made his way into the villa.


    The lights on the first floor of the villa were all off. Only the second floor had a faint glow.


    Hesitantly, Qiu Tu ascended the stairs, only to find that the light was coming from the study room on the second floor.


    He tiptoed towards the study, noticing that the door wasn''t completely closed and left a gap about as wide as a fist.


    Peering through the gap, Qiu Tu saw Fang Tangtang, wearing a silk pajama set, sitting uncharacteristically at the study''s desk, reading.


    However, she clearly wasn''t cut out for reading as she rested her cheek on her hand, her little head bobbing, as if she were about to fall asleep at any moment.


    "What''s this girl torturing herself for? She clearly doesn''t want to read, so why force herself?"


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu gently knocked on the door of the study and pushed it open.


    Hearing the knock, Tangtang, drowsy, lifted her head to see Qiu Tu step inside.


    In that moment, she was startled, then her eyes were filled with joy.


    However, it seemed that facing Qiu Tu in person was a different scenario to exchanging messages.


    So instead of being as bold as her texts suggested, Tangtang''s face turned "bright red."


    Then she stood up, head lowered, somewhat awkward and nervous as she said, "Qiu Tu, you, you''re back?"


    --------


    2 Chapters, 10,000 words, haha! Vote for your Monthly Ticket!


    - Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 283 Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    In the dimly lit study, Fang Tangtang with her head bowed looked particularly endearing.


    On her palm-sized, oval face, she wore light makeup. The makeup wasn''t mature but instead gave her eyes and brows an added touch of tempting innocence that made men want to commit a crime.


    She wasn''t tall, only about 1.6 meters, and because she was wearing a silk robe, the shadows on her chest vividly displayed her curvaceous figure.


    Looking at the natural beauty before him, a flash of appreciation crossed Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    He asked softly, "You''re not asleep yet?"


    Fang Tangtang kept her head down, clutching the hem of her nightgown, and then timidly nodded, "I''m having trouble sleeping." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu made an "Oh?" sound and inquired, "Why can''t you sleep?"


    Fang Tangtang lifted her head somewhat blankly, but upon meeting Qiu Tu''s gaze, she quickly looked away in a fluster.


    Her ears were a bit red, and her voice was as faint as a mosquito''s, "It''s... just a little hard to get used to not having you by my side."


    Qiu Tu, standing at the doorway of the study, smiled and asked insensitively, "I wasn''t by your side in the past, why could you sleep then?" Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    Upon hearing his words, Fang Tangtang''s face turned even redder.


    She kept her head down, arguing in a soft voice, "Can being alone and being with someone be the same?"


    "But we are two people now."


    When he heard Fang Tangtang''s confession, Qiu Tu''s heart did not stir much.


    After all, he was past the age of believing in love, but he still smiled, then walked over and took the girl''s hand.


    Sitting down in the chair, he pulled Fang Tangtang onto his lap, wrapped his arm around her slender waist, and then spoke sweet nothings softly, "So, haven''t I come back now?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu turned towards the book on the desk and asked, "What are you reading?"


    Perhaps Qiu Tu''s rare sweet talk had eased Fang Tangtang''s tension, so she relaxed, leaned against Qiu Tu''s chest, and then looked at the book on the desk, quietly saying, "It''s the book you were reading last night, seems to be called ''Existence''."


    "I want to read more of the books you like and understand the things you enjoy. That way, we''ll have topics to talk about in the future."


    The girl''s voice was soft and sweet, spreading gently in the quiet night, very pleasant to the ear.


    "After dinner, I''ve been reading this book."


    "But..." she paused, lightly crinkling her little nose, then said, "I think I might be too dumb. I don''t understand it at all."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He said, "It''s normal not to understand. It''s not the kind of book meant for you."


    "Even I find it very abstruse."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang mustered some rare courage to disagree. She lowered her head, timidly saying, "But... I want to understand you more."


    Seeing the girl unusually insistent on her own, Qiu Tu didn''t dampen her enthusiasm.


    Moreover, the idea of a woman giving charm to the sleeves, reading at night by candlelight, was already a wonderful story in life. So Qiu Tu simply picked up the book "Existence" from the desk, held the girl, and began to read and explain to her.


    In the silent night, in the study under the dim light, a couple immersed in reading appeared extraordinarily harmonious, warm, presenting a sense of tranquil beauty of the passing time.


    Um... except for Larilo still possessing Fang Tangtang.


    Ever since possessing Fang Tangtang last night, Larilo had been quietly hibernating, maintaining her consciousness.


    It was only after Qiu Tu returned home that she began to wake up slowly due to sensing the presence of a Cataclysmic.


    Once awake, Larilo also figured out the situation: Qiu Tu was back, Fang Tangtang was wearing a silk nightgown, and she hadn''t slept!


    At that, Larilo was utterly excited!


    She felt it was time for her to regain her strength!


    With Qiu Tu''s vigorous energy and the girlfriends he had everywhere, coupled with Fang Tangtang''s enticing figure, wouldn''t the two of them spontaneously ignite a stormy affair?


    And as long as they started "reproducing," she could draw strength from it and restore her own soul!


    If the two could do it a few more times, perhaps she wouldn''t be so weak anymore.


    So, she waited and waited.


    She waited until Qiu Tu held Fang Tangtang in his arms; waited until Qiu Tu''s hands were caressing Fang Tangtang''s delicate body; waited until Qiu Tu was not prepared to read the book...


    But then... who would have thought, Fang Tangtang actually didn''t agree but instead continued to invite Qiu Tu to read?


    At that moment, Larilo truly felt like she had thrown her back out.


    She was almost going mad.


    She especially wanted to crack open Fang Tangtang''s pretty little head to see what was inside!


    She felt that if she had Fang Tangtang''s figure, she could wear her clothes with the neckline plunging to her navel!


    She would change into eight different outfits a day to seduce Qiu Tu!


    She would make sure Qiu Tu never leaves the bed in this lifetime!


    So, upon seeing Fang Tangtang and Qiu Tu reading by candlelight into the night, Larilo was close to fainting from frustration.


    Just like this, three people, two were reading, one was angry, throughout the long night.


    Until 2 a.m., when Fang Tangtang, tired, fell asleep in Qiu Tu''s arms, did he smile and shake his head before he lifted her in a princess carry and took her back to the bedroom...


    Gently placing Fang Tangtang on the bed, Qiu Tu carefully covered her with a thin blanket and turned off the light.


    Then he walked out of the room, switched on the eavesdropping blocker, pulled out a specially made Communicator, and started a call with Qin Shuman.


    Once the call connected, Qiu Tu also began to inquire, "How much has the search area been narrowed down to?"


    Qin Shuman sounded a bit tired as she said, "It''s down to about 87 square kilometers now."


    "Restricting our speed but mainly it''s the interval time of the ''Homologous Compass'', the speed of defining the regions, and the speed of the cars."

 Chapter 283 Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    "We must get to the approximate center of an area and control Zheng Tao''s use of the ''Homologous Compass'', then reduce the search range by half based on the direction of the compass needle." Enjoy new chapters from My Virtual Library Empire


    "During this time, we''ll have to drive and divide up the territory, it''s extremely tedious and troublesome."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s complaint, Qiu Tu chuckled and said, "To make a big accomplishment, you have to deal with tedium and trouble."


    He quickly did the math. "Based on this speed, we should be able to roughly determine Rilo''s location by noon tomorrow at the latest."


    Qin Shuman hummed in agreement, "Six more times, reducing it to about 1.5 square kilometers, should make the search much easier."


    "That would mean about nine more hours, give or take, so around 11 am tomorrow."


    "If the area is unusual, it might take a few more rounds."


    "But at the latest, we should be able to find Rilo by tomorrow evening."


    Qiu Tu hummed in response, then said, "Let''s keep at it."


    Continuing the conversation, they exchanged a few more words. Just then, as if struck by a sudden thought, Qin Shuman spoke up, "Right, I''ve got some intelligence to share with you."


    "To prevent Zheng Tao from contacting Rilo through other means, we specially interrogated him before assigning him the mission."


    "It seemed his mind had already collapsed, so we hardly needed to use any means to get everything out of him."


    "According to what he said, it was three years ago when he first came in contact with Rilo during a mission in what was then the Disaster Zone of Xinjie City."


    "At that time, he came to Xinjie City for a reconnaissance mission. While investigating the local gangs, he became infatuated with a woman."


    "That woman, however, wasn''t very interested in him, so she was always somewhat dismissive."


    "But as a prized talent from the Sanctuary, how could he tolerate such humiliation? Coincidentally, during his investigation, he discovered that the woman''s family had ties to the gangs."


    "So, he used that as a threat to coerce the woman into being with him."


    "But affection is a strange thing. Even by coercing the woman to his side, if she didn''t love him, she still didn''t love him."


    "In his quest to win the woman''s heart, Zheng Tao tried every means to no avail."


    "It was at that time he found out about Evil God Lariro of Xinjie City who had the power to make a woman fall in love with a man."


    "So, he found a way to contact Lariro and obtained two vials of ''Mandragora Love Drug'' in exchange for his ''future offspring'' and ''allegiance''."


    "Then, with the aid of the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' and his relentless efforts, he finally won the woman''s heart."


    "But¡­ as the saying goes, you cannot hide a deed if you don''t refrain from doing it. Others might be blindsided by the woman''s change, but her own family could not be fooled."


    "Suspecting Zheng Tao of using some evil sorcery upon finding the woman''s abnormal behavior, her family threatened to report Zheng Tao to General Ye and representatives from the Investigation Bureau, Yu Zhengyi and Bai Yu."


    "Left with no choice, Zheng Tao took a drastic step; he eliminated the woman''s entire family and set the place on fire."


    "Since the murder and arson took place after a major purge, Xinjie City was very chaotic, so he deceived the woman and the authorities by blaming transient criminals."


    "Afterward, he pinned the crime on a few remaining gang members and closed the case."


    Pausing, Qin Shuman continued, "Who the woman is, I believe you know by now."


    Startled by Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu blurted out without thinking, "Tan Huimin?"


    Qin Shuman affirmed with a hum, "Yes, it''s Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu rubbed his temples, recalling the information Qin Shuman had provided about Zheng Tao.


    Indeed, Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin met, got to know each other, and fell in love a few years ago when General Ye was clearing Xinjie City. Subsequently, after a purported criminal attack, Tan Huimin''s family was destroyed, leaving her no choice but to return to the Sanctuary with Zheng Tao. (Chapter 225)


    Although Qiu Tu had also found it odd at the time or had suspected Zheng Tao''s involvement, he was biased due to having seen Tan Huimin''s love for Zheng Tao and thought their relationship was genuinely affectionate.


    Little did he expect... there would be such a backstory.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t know whether to marvel at Zheng Tao''s twisted love for Tan Huimin or to denounce Zheng Tao''s cruelty. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This man was ruthless to colleagues, subordinates, lovers, and even the family of his lover....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt somewhat relieved: fortunately, he was accustomed to dealing decisively with enemies.


    Otherwise, had he given Zheng Tao any respite to recuperate, he might have ended up on the radar of a venomous snake.


    After discussing a bit more, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman ended their call.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu''s mind was filled with the image of Tan Huimin. He had truly not expected her story to be as tragic as it was.


    Her family was eradicated by Zheng Tao, and even her sincere feelings were controlled by the Mandragora Love Drug.


    Qiu Tu had experience with the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' and knew how powerful the potion was.


    That''s why, after using it once when he first met Tang Feifei, he never used it again.


    It was because he felt that such a potion twisted a person''s psychology too much, and it would prevent him from discerning whether a woman''s love was because of the potion or for himself....


    ```

 Chapter 283 Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    And Zheng Tao had actually used two bottles of "Mandragora Love Drug" on Tan Huimin.


    For a moment, Qiu Tu even felt a bit of sympathy for Tan Huimin''s plight.


    He held the communicator, stood by the window in the corridor, and quietly watched the outside night scene for a while, deep in thought...


    He felt, perhaps... Zheng Tao''s death could be of more value.


    After quietly thinking for a while, Qiu Tu turned around and went back to his room.


    In the room, Fang Tangtang was still sound asleep. Qiu Tu took off his uniform, changed into pajamas, then cuddled up with her, and soon fell into a deep sleep as well.


    But what he didn''t know was that, after he fell asleep,


    the figure of Larilo slowly emerged from Fang Tangtang''s body.


    Larilo looked at Qiu Tu with disbelief, then glanced at the special communicator Qiu Tu had placed on the bedside cabinet!


    Although Qiu Tu had gone outside to make a call and had used an anti-eavesdropping device, but... that device couldn''t block her "consciousness"!


    Therefore, the conversation between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman was fully overheard by Larilo.


    ''The Security Department has actually controlled Zheng Tao and is using the "Homologous Compass" to track me?!''


    ''Damn it!''


    ''And they''ve already narrowed down the range to a few dozen square kilometers?''


    And thinking about how she obtained nothing tonight and was now too weak to even leave this house.


    For a time, the expression on Larilo''s face was a bit gloomy and indistinct.


    She struggled to think of a solution, thinking about how to break the situation.


    After a moment, her eyes lit up, and she had an idea in her mind...


    The effect of the "Homologous Compass" is to detect "homologous" auras, not to detect "Evil God" auras, so any aura similar to hers would be detected.


    And since she had already separated from Yan Chen''s domain, she could completely plant the Evil God''s Mark onto small insects, birds, or even animals.


    Driving them to scatter around Xinjie City.


    In that case, the "Homologous Compass" would detect her aura in all directions. Wouldn''t that mean they couldn''t narrow down the area, nor catch her?!


    Thinking this, Larilo even felt she was a genius.


    However, while she had thought of a way to solve this crisis, there was still one biggest difficulty unsolved¡ªLarilo had no strength at all at the moment.


    She must let Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang "reproduce" in order to regain some strength and thus be able to plant the Evil God''s Mark...


    For a moment, Larilo looked at the two sleeping figures and really wished she could wake them up and have them perform for her right there...


    ''I must think of a way to get them to "exercise" in the morning...''


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    The next morning.


    Qiu Tu awoke in a comfortable, warm feeling.


    He opened his eyes in confusion, then discovered that his blanket had formed an arc.


    And along with that warmth and comfort, the arc was still moving, almost too much for Qiu Tu to contain himself.


    He lifted the blanket, only to find that Fang Tangtang was actually sneaking an early breakfast.


    This was somewhat unexpected for Qiu Tu.


    After all, although Fang Tangtang had always been quite proactive towards him, she had never done something like this before.


    Even if she wanted to please him, it was in a clumsy way, seducing him.


    Moreover, for some reason, Qiu Tu always felt that this morning, Fang Tangtang seemed a bit different in temperament?


    She seemed to have lost a touch of greenness and innocence, gaining a hint of demonic charm and seduction?


    However, these strange thoughts were just fleeting in Qiu Tu''s mind.


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    At such times, how could he think about anything else.


    -------

 Chapter 284 I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    So Qiu Tu didn''t think much of it and pushed all these strange thoughts to the back of his mind.


    Then he reached out, pressing on Fang Tangtang''s head, hissing as he sucked in a breath of cold air.


    It had to be said, Fang Tangtang did have some talent, although she was a bit clumsy at first and had a strong "teeth texture," but she quickly got the hang of it.


    In this manner, allowing Fang Tangtang to sneak in a few minutes of it.


    Finally, Qiu Tu could hardly contain himself any longer. He pulled back and then lifted Fang Tangtang onto his lap, ready to officially start this morning''s exercise.


    However, he wasn''t sure if it was an illusion.


    Qiu Tu always felt that in that instant, Fang Tangtang''s demeanor changed again.


    She seemed to have reverted from the seductive and enticing state back to that of a green and adorable girl.


    And what was stranger, her eyes looked vacant as if she didn''t know what had happened and there was a lazy feeling as if she had just awakened from sleep...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t care less about all that. He got on top and then prepared to start the morning exercise.


    And it was just at this critical moment. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly! There was a flash in front of Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    The next second, lines of prompts appeared in his view!


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then quickly read through the prompts in front of him!


    "Triggered Crisis ''Lariro''s Revenge''! Generating Crisis Report!"


    "The Evil God Lariro, now only a wisp of a soul and consciousness, has lurked nearby and possessed your concubine, Fang Tangtang."


    "She needs a significant amount of ''Reproduction'' pathway power to replenish her weakened soul."


    "To use the Evil God''s Mark on various small animals to distract the Security Department from chasing her."


    "To contact her sister Zhao Ji after regaining a certain level of strength, and be resurrected!"


    "For this purpose, she had to expend her last bit of strength and, during Fang Tangtang''s deep sleep, manipulate her body to ''serve'' you and stir your desire..."


    "A Deity being forced to serve a mortal. For the proud her, this is almost an unforgivable act!"


    "Coupled with the ''Old Resentment'' of the past, she has decided to seek revenge against you after sufficiently regaining her ''Reproduction'' power and coming back to life!"


    "Therefore, please cautiously provide her with ''Reproduction'' power, ensuring she cannot be revived, or make her give up her grudge against you."


    "Otherwise, you would not want to know the consequences of being remembered with hatred by an Evil God....."


    Having read all of the Crisis Warnings, Qiu Tu quickly processed all the information provided by Crisis Intuition with his brain.


    According to the prompts from Crisis Intuition.


    Lariro indeed "lives" on as a wisp of a soul, and her current state is so frail that she is inferior even to ordinary creatures.


    Therefore, in order to regain her strength, she has hidden within Fang Tangtang, his companion, ready to extract the Catastrophe Power from the ''Reproduction'' pathway from both him and Fang Tangtang.


    She originally planned to take her time. However, last night she overheard his talk with Qin Shuman and learned about the Security Department''s intention to pursue her.


    To avoid being captured by the Security Department, she had to restore some strength first, so she had no choice but to "take to the field" herself and seduce him.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hissed, finally realizing: so, it was Lariro who had been ''serving'' him just now?


    Thinking about the Deity who was once so high above, now bending down to serve him, Qiu Tu felt even straighter for a moment.


    And it was because of this service that Lariro developed a grudge against him, intending to kill him once she regained her strength.


    This was probably why ''Crisis Intuition'' did not trigger last night, but did this morning¡ªLariro had no intent to kill him last night, so ''Crisis Intuition'' did not sense the danger.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t care at all.


    Lariro could only seek revenge against him on the premise of regaining her strength! And could Qiu Tu afford her that opportunity?


    Of course not!


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    Moreover, thanks to the prompt from ''Crisis Intuition,'' Qiu Tu knew that it was not the case that a single act of ''Reproduction'' with Fang Tangtang would revive Lariro.


    They would have to engage in a significant number of times for Lariro to gradually regain her strength.


    As for Lariro regaining a bit of strength and then implanting the Evil God''s Mark on some small animals to throw off the Security Department''s search... Qiu Tu didn''t care in the slightest.


    What was the search by the Security Department for, if not to find Lariro?


    Now that he had already found her, why should he care about their search?


    What''s most important for him now is: to keep her steady!


    After all, Lariro might be weak now, but she seemed capable of running away.


    With his insufficient strength and inability to see her figure, if she sensed something was wrong, she might just escape right away.


    So, after considering the situation, Qiu Tu decided to continue with the morning exercise.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu "pfft!"... began the morning exercise with Fang Tangtang...


    This way, the morning exercise continued for over an hour...


    In the end, feeling like he had "charged up" Lariro a bit, Qiu Tu finally ended the morning exercise amid Fang Tangtang''s pleas for mercy.


    After the morning exercise, Qiu Tu got up and went to the Shuigu Room to wash up.


    And while showering, Qiu Tu also pondered his next course of action.


    Although he couldn''t see Lariro, Qiu Tu guessed that she must have recovered a little strength by now.


    But this amount of strength should only allow her to plant the Evil God''s Mark on small animals, to distract the Security Department''s pursuit.


    So, there were two options now before Qiu Tu.

 Chapter 284 I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The first thing is to contact Qin Shuman immediately after leaving home today, and let the Security Department take over Larilo.


    The second is¡­ not to rush to inform the Security Department of Larilo''s whereabouts, but to try to brainwash Larilo, to make her believe in him again.


    Thus achieving the goal of "possessing" her.


    After that, whether it''s about extracting more benefits from her, such as the method to control the Boundless Heart Sea region;


    Or using her as a high-quality bargaining chip to exchange for a promotion opportunity;


    Qiu Tu could make a choice at will¡­


    The sound of "whoosh whoosh" water filled the Shuigu Room, with dense water vapor spreading and gradually obscuring Qiu Tu''s figure¡­


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in the bedroom,


    Larilo''s consciousness was also following her plan, beginning to implant the Evil God''s Mark into some insects.


    While planting the marks, she let out a wickedly charming laugh, ''I originally thought Qiu Tu was all show and no substance, a pretty face with no real skills. But it turns out he''s quite impressive haha.''


    ''In just one hour, the humidity in the bedroom seems to have gone up a notch.''


    ''Tsk tsk.''


    ''It was not in vain that I¡­''


    Grieving about this, and possibly stirred by the memory of her recent "meal," Larilo paused and her face turned green.


    Huffing, she quickened the pace of planting the Evil God''s Marks, and then ferociously muttered in her mind,


    ''Once I regain my power... you will all die!''


    ¡­


    After showering, Qiu Tu went to check on Fang Tangtang and Larilo in the bedroom.


    Fang Tangtang was still asleep, and as for Larilo... she was still nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu didn''t care. He ate breakfast as usual, then left the house and took the car to the Investigation Bureau.


    After arriving at the Investigation Bureau''s parking lot, Qiu Tu didn''t rush upstairs.


    He let the driver go back to the Investigation Bureau, and he himself began patiently waiting.


    He waited for more than ten minutes, estimated the time, and figured it was after the Security Department''s next "shrinking of the perimeter."


    Qiu Tu picked up his specially made Communicator and called Qin Shuman.


    The call connected, and Qin Shuman''s irritable voice came through the speaker, "What do you mean by there appear to be multiple targets?"


    "What do you mean Larilo is everywhere in Xinjie City now?"


    "Are the Cataclysmic treasures broken, or is it your brains that are broken!?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Check the treasures immediately, and report back to me as soon as you have news!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s irritable voice, Qiu Tu gently reminded her, "Shuman, you''re getting flustered."


    Qiu Tu''s words were like a bucket of cold water on Qin Shuman, making her instantly calm down.


    She took a deep breath, apologized to Qiu Tu, and asked him to wait. Then, she apologized to her subordinates and calmly redistributed tasks to handle the emergency.


    After everything was arranged, Qin Shuman picked up the Communicator, her voice tired, and said to Qiu Tu, "Ah... I''ve been up for several nights. I''m not in great shape."


    "I encountered an emergency suddenly and lost my temper. Sorry for making you see that."


    Qiu Tu was never stingy with his affection when a woman needed care, so he reassured her gently, "It''s understandable."


    "After all, you were the one who proposed the ''Evil God Capture Plan.'' The pressure must be huge."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s comforting words, Qin Shuman felt much better.


    She managed a smile on the other end of the call and then said, "Right, did you call me because you have some news?"


    Adding jokingly, "I hope it''s good news you''re about to tell me, not bad news."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu, sitting in the car, laughed.


    He said, "It actually is good news."


    Qin Shuman asked curiously, "Good news?"


    Qiu Tu hummed affirmatively and then said, "You can now submit an application to the Sanctuary to allocate experts, technicians, and third- and fourth-order catastrophe-evolver masters."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was stunned.


    She reflexively said, "But Larilo hasn''t been found yet."


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    She continued, "Qiu Tu, you might not be aware of the current situation. This morning we narrowed down Larilo''s active area to a range of about 6 square kilometers."


    "Just as we were about to shrink it to 3 square kilometers, the ''Homologous Compass'' seemed to have broken. It has started detecting multiple homologous targets."


    "Some of these homologous targets are inside the current perimeter, and some are outside."


    "The farthest trace is even more than ten kilometers away."


    "This is basically telling us that all the efforts we''ve made so far have been in vain!"


    "So, now we can only hope that the ''Homologous Compass'' isn''t broken."


    "Otherwise... our whole plan might be a failure."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu chuckled again and repeated, "What I mean is, you can already apply to the Sanctuary to carry out your plan."


    If Qiu Tu had misspoken just once, it could be an accident. But having repeated it twice, Qin Shuman instantly realized the implication.


    Images of Qiu Tu repeatedly turning the tide and making comebacks came to her mind, and she was momentarily stunned.


    After a short while, she ventured, "Qiu Tu... have you found Larilo?"


    Qiu Tu did not directly answer Qin Shuman''s question but said, "Shuman, can I trust you?"


    Qin Shuman was silent for a moment, then said solemnly, "I can only say, I will not betray you."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu then said, "I have indeed found Larilo."


    "But... because it was me who found Larilo, I want to make some changes to your plan."

 Chapter 284 I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "I would like to collaborate with your Security Department on behalf of the Political Department of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to execute the ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' plan,"


    "Of course, I''m only asking for the name. The specific implementation will still be your responsibility."


    "What I can guarantee is that during your expansion period, Larilo will definitely not return and will not affect your plans."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused before adding, "Of course, once this plan is reported in the name of both of our departments, we will be in this together, like grasshoppers on the same string; it would be impossible for us to intentionally sabotage the plan."


    "Therefore, you can fully trust us."


    When Qin Shuman heard Qiu Tu''s words, there was a long silence on the other end of the phone. Find exclusive stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    After a moment, she slowly said, "You... want to use this plan to get promoted again?"


    "Once the ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' plan is approved, Xinjie City will immediately catch the eye of all powers from the Eighth Sanctuary."


    "At that time, various forces and departments will send people over. As the initiators of the plan, both the Security Department and the Political Department will definitely need someone capable of stepping up to take charge."


    "And now, the selection for Head of the Xinjie City Political Department has not been determined. For the Sanctuary to ensure the smooth implementation of the plan, they will send back the other two director candidates, then let you oversee the work."


    "In a situation that may affect the entire Sanctuary, even the human coalition, the position of Head of the Political Department is really inconsequential. The Sanctuary will not be stingy with this arrangement."


    Qiu Tu laughed at Qin Shuman''s analysis and agreed, "Exactly."


    "Actually, it was you who inspired me." S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Both General Ye and Director Dai place great importance on this plan, which clearly has a terrifying impact."


    "If this plan can allow the two of them to get promoted, then it should be able to do the same for us."


    "By then, you as the head of the Security Department and I as the Head of the Political Department, wouldn''t that be wonderful?"


    Qin Shuman couldn''t help but laugh at Qiu Tu''s words.


    Perhaps because of "getting back what was lost" with Larilo, her mood had improved greatly.


    She candidly said, "Actually... when I gave you the proposal and got you involved, I did harbor the selfish intention of taking you along for the ride."


    "However, this plan is ultimately under the military, so I couldn''t risk causing internal conflicts and forcefully work with you."


    "To my surprise, just in a day''s time, the situation has completely reversed."


    Qin Shuman pretended to be helpless and said, "I didn''t expect that now Larilo would end up in your hands, and our military would have no choice but to cooperate with you to carry out the plan."


    After finishing, she said, "Then I''ll just...''reluctantly'' discuss it with Director Dai and General Ye. Let''s see if they will agree to your terms?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Then I''d like to ask for your help, Major Qin."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu put down the special communicator in his hand and took a deep breath, muttering softly to himself, "Done."


    Indeed, Qiu Tu didn''t choose either of the two options presented in the bathroom.


    The former was because Qiu Tu wasn''t willing to just hand over such a great achievement to the Security Department.


    Especially since the Security Department''s contributions were already enough for Ye Mingfeng, Dai Yukang, and Qin Shuman to get promoted.


    The latter was because Qiu Tu wasn''t confident; he didn''t believe he could control Larilo on his own, without any help.


    Furthermore, Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal was [promotion]! It was to increase his power and strength through [promotion]!


    So, in the end, he chose to merge the two approaches, using Larilo as a bargaining chip to negotiate with the military for the right to be named in the plan, in order to seek the position of Head of the Political Department!


    This was the safest choice and the one that best served his interests!


    --------


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 Chapter 285 Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Now, this choice had already born its preliminary fruits, Qin Shuman had agreed to Qiu Tu''s plan.


    But... Qiu Tu knew that to ultimately complete this plan, he still had to do a few more things.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up his communicator and dialed Tang Feifei''s number.


    The phone connected, and Tang Feifei''s efficient, chilly voice came through the receiver, "What is it?"


    Given the nature of their relationship, Qiu Tu didn''t need to beat around the bush and he got straight to the point, "Lend me Su Xiaowan for a bit."


    On the other end of the phone, Tang Feifei:.....


    She was silent for two seconds, then said, "Fine."


    "Just don''t break her."


    "She''s just an ordinary person, not a Cataclysmic."


    Qiu Tu:??


    A few minutes later, Su Xiaowan cautiously approached Qiu Tu''s car.


    This girl seemed to be a bit naturally dazed, looking a bit silly and muddled.


    But it was precisely such a girl that Qiu Tu needed.


    So he rolled down the car window, then turned to Su Xiaowan and said, "Can you drive?" S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Su Xiaowan nodded.


    Qiu Tu said, "You are now going to pick someone up using the Tang Office car."


    "She''s my friend, a bit introverted."


    "I want you to accompany her today to stroll around Xinjie City, have some fun."


    "If it''s convenient for you, you can also bring her to your home as a guest. Or introduce her to your friends."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Su Xiaowan blinked dumbly, then her face took on an expression of "that''s it?"


    When Tang Feifei had asked her to find Qiu Tu earlier, saying he had a task for her, her expression was full of deep sympathy and pity.


    Honestly, at that moment, Su Xiaowan''s heart truly skipped a beat, worried that Qiu Tu would assign her some dangerous task from the Political Department.


    After all, the Political Department was notorious for being bloody and twisted within the entire Investigation Bureau system.


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    And now... that''s it?


    Just to accompany a girl?


    Su Xiaowan breathed a sigh of relief, then snapped to attention with a "smack!", stood straight, and saluted Qiu Tu, "Yes, sir!"


    After giving Su Xiaowan the address and watching her drive away,


    Qiu Tu picked up the communicator again and dialed Fang Tangtang''s number.


    Two minutes later, just having gotten up and eating her meal, Fang Tangtang hung up the phone, her palm-sized face covered in surprise.


    She murmured to herself, "Qiu Tu said... being at home alone is too boring, he wants his subordinate to take me out for a breath of fresh air?"


    Her gaze became tinged with emotion as she softly said, "Mother was right, as long as I am sincere to him, I will always have a place in his heart..."


    With this thought, she felt the food in her mouth seemed much tastier...


    At this very moment, while Fang Tangtang was moved, the Larilo attached to her was also deep in thought.


    ''Qiu Tu... taking his mistress out for a good time?''


    ''Could it be some sort of plot?''


    ''Does he plan to lure me into a trap and then capture me in one fell swoop?''


    At this thought, Larilo felt something was off: if Qiu Tu really wanted to catch her, there was no need to go through so much trouble¡ªsimply surrounding the villa would suffice.


    ''It seems I might be overthinking.''


    ''Qiu Tu must be very satisfied with my... no, with Fang Tangtang''s performance this morning. That''s why he''s giving a little sweetener.''


    Perhaps because she thought again of how she had lost her power and could only bury her head in serving Qiu Tu, Larilo''s expression turned sour once more.


    ''No rush, no rush, once I regain my power, I''ll slice off his iron rod and soak it in wine to drink!''


    Although Su Xiaowan was a bit naturally dazed, she was fairly reliable in handling matters.


    So, without much delay, she drove to Longshan Road, picking up Fang Tangtang and Larilo.


    On the way there, Su Xiaowan had already considered the itinerary.


    ¡ª¡ªFirst, she would take Fang Tangtang to the newly built Xinjie City Garden for a walk; then bring Fang Tangtang home for a meal; in the afternoon, introduce Fang Tangtang to her own girlfriends, have afternoon tea together, listen to music, and read books...


    After all, she had mentally prepared herself on the way over:


    This girl must have a special relationship with Qiu Tu!


    And Qiu Tu, whether in the Investigation Bureau or the military, held an uncommon status! Thus, by extension, this girl''s identity also became extraordinary!


    Therefore, this girl was her God for the day!


    All she did today was for one purpose, which was to make this girl happy!


    Meanwhile.


    While "three" girls were enjoying their leisure time together.


    In the military, the head of the Security Department''s office.


    Qin Shuman had also just reported Qiu Tu''s conditions and thoughts to Dai Yukang.


    After listening to everything Qin Shuman said, Dai Yukang looked at her expressionlessly, then tapped the desk forcefully with his index finger curled inward, "Rain Butterfly!"


    "Is this the result you''ve presented me with?"


    "You pledged with such certainty that the plan would go without a hitch, but Larilo was snatched up by someone else first?"


    As he said this, Dai Yukang spoke gravely, "And why would Qiu Tu know about our Security Department''s plan?"


    "Did you tell him?"


    "Why would you disclose this information to him without authorization?"


    Before meeting with Dai Yukang, Qin Shuman had already thought of the reasons and excuses for this matter.


    So, upon hearing Dai Yukang''s questioning, her expression didn''t change in the slightest.


    She looked Dai Yukang squarely in the eyes and said, "Director, you personally turned Qiu Tu into a spy."


    "He is one of our Security Department''s own."


    At Qin Shuman''s words, Dai Yukang''s expression faltered.


    Then Qin Shuman continued, "Moreover, Qiu Tu also said that as a spy implanted in the Investigation Bureau by our Security Department, the higher his position, the more beneficial it is for our Security Department."

 Chapter 285 Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "The Security Department should support him on this matter."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Dai Yukang looked at her as if seeing her for the first time, his gaze scanning her from top to bottom. Then, he suddenly laughed.


    That smile contained both relief and appreciation.


    "Rain Butterfly, you''ve made progress recently."


    "It seems the recent cases have been a great training for you. You already have the makings of a Security Department chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman''s face remained expressionless.


    Her body was still tense, her hands behind her back clenched tightly, so tight that her knuckles were starting to turn white.


    Only she, a direct disciple cultivated by Dai Yukang himself, knew how terrifying Dai Yukang could be.


    He was now merely preoccupied with too many recent matters and had trusted Qin Shuman, his confidant, too much, which is why she was able to take advantage of him slightly. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If he really were to free up his hands, Qin Shuman felt that there were few in Xinjie City who could play the game of intrigue better than the man before her.


    Even Yan Chen might be slightly inferior...


    So, even though Dai Yukang was now praising Qin Shuman, she still did not dare to take his words for granted. Enjoy new stories from My Virtual Library Empire


    She replied flawlessly, "Chief is jesting. I was only conveying Qiu Tu''s words, without adding anything of my own."


    "Moreover, I am your soldier. If you ask me to be chief, I will be the chief, and if you ask me to be a regular commissioner, I will just be a regular commissioner."


    Dai Yukang watched Qin Shuman with a playful eye and then said with a half-smile, "It''s rare for you to be so loyal."


    "Then tell me, now that Qiu Tu has named his price, but I do not want to accept it, what will you do?"


    Qin Shuman didn''t hesitate as she said, "I am the head of the Security Department''s intelligence system! I will spare no effort to dig out Larilo''s whereabouts!"


    Upon hearing this, Dai Yukang said with a smirk, "Then how do you plan to proceed?"


    This time, Qin Shuman hesitated briefly.


    Before she could give it much thought, Dai Yukang said, "As I recall, Qiu Tu stayed in the Security Department reviewing the capturing process of Larilo with you after finishing work last night."


    "He left the Security Department at 10:30 PM."


    "He called you this morning at 9 AM, claiming he had found Larilo."


    "This leaves 10.5 hours in between, most of which were late at night."


    "He didn''t have any Cataclysmic treasures to search for Larilo. He also didn''t previously intend to search for Larilo''s traces."


    "So, I boldly speculate that he probably encountered Larilo on his way home or while at home."


    "He is only a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. He is not yet able to see souls and consciousness."


    "Under such circumstances, the likelihood that he coincidentally encountered Larilo on the road and recognized her is much lower."


    "Plus, he has had multiple contacts with Larilo before. No one knows the exact nature of their relationship, after all, everything is just his side of the story."


    "So... the probability that Larilo sought refuge at his home after her downfall has significantly increased."


    At this point, Dai Yukang''s eyes glittered as he analyzed, "I deduce that Qiu Tu probably didn''t initially plan to share the credit."


    "After watching the search-broadcast, he would have returned home as usual."


    "Then, due to some abnormality with a family member or because of some special Cataclysmic treasure, he discovered that Larilo had taken possession of one of his family members."


    "Larilo''s approach is ''Reproduction,'' and to restore her power, she needs to absorb the Cataclysmic Power of ''Reproduction.'' So if I''m not wrong, it is highly likely that Larilo is hiding among his mistresses."


    Dai Yukang looked coldly at Qin Shuman and said, "Check which mistress''s house Qiu Tu visited yesterday, and we will know where Larilo is."


    Hearing Dai Yukang''s tightly interwoven analysis, Qin Shuman gripped her hands even tighter.


    She had not expected that a simple timeline could yield so much information to Dai Yukang and lead him to make so many deductions.


    She wanted to defend Qiu Tu but knew that the more she said right now, the more mistakes she would make. So, she could only salute and say solemnly, "Yes, Chief!"


    After speaking, she turned to leave.


    However, just as she was about to go, Dai Yukang suddenly spoke again, "With your current skills, can you really control Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing Dai Yukang''s words, Qin Shuman paused in her steps.


    She turned around and saw Dai Yukang shaking his head slightly before taking a sip of water from the cup on his desk.


    "Do you think that what I saw through at a glance, Qiu Tu, with his meticulous mind, wouldn''t have taken measures to cover up in advance?"


    Dai Yukang shook his head as he spoke, "I guess that he must have arranged for her transfer before and after he called you this morning."


    "Furthermore, the person he arranged for the transfer is very likely not one of his confidants but a dark horse or a confidant of an ally."


    "With so many people in Xinjie City, not even knowing who made the transfer, where would one even start to look?"


    At this, Dai Yukang looked up at Qin Shuman and said, "You see, you are still a bit naive in your methods. He has calculated you through and through."


    "In the future, when you truly become the chief of the Security Department, be careful lest he climbs on your head and throws his weight around."


    With that, Dai Yukang, holding his cup, stood up and said, "I''ll go and have a chat with Old Ye."


    "The plans for ''Capturing Evil Gods'' and ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' are so grand, letting him have a share of the credit is not too much after all."


    "If he is truly loyal to The military, then supporting him a bit won''t be a loss."


    "But..." at this, Dai Yukang pointed at Qin Shuman out of thin air, "you should know. This person was brought into The military by you. You will be responsible for him."

 Chapter 285 Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman nodded emphatically, "Yes, Director."


    Seeing this, Dai Yukang couldn''t be bothered to say more and immediately left the office to discuss the matter with General Ye. Experience more tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    However, after leaving the office, Dai Yukang shook his head slightly,


    ''Such talent... If only I could get him transferred to the Security Department.''


    ''That way, I wouldn''t need to let Rain Butterfly take over the Director''s position...''


    Thinking this, a subtle and obscure smile suddenly appeared on his face...


    .....


    The military''s office efficiency was still very high.


    The call Qiu Tu made in the morning received a precise response from Qin Shuman by noon.


    And the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" were delivered to the Sanctuary that very afternoon.


    However, just before the submission of those plans,


    a report drafted jointly by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City Military Department, and Eastern City Military Department, titled [Operation Report on the Elimination of the Evil God Lariro], was delivered to the Sanctuary in advance!


    This report detailed the entire process of Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu eliminating the Evil God Lariro.


    Yet, a slight departure from the facts was that Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu had ceded virtually all the credit.


    The report showed that the initiator, commander, and main combatant of the operation to kill the Evil God was all Liu Xiongyuan!


    And that wasn''t all; along with the report, samples of resources from the area controlled by Lariro at the Boundless Heart Sea and samples of Lariro''s crystallized Divine Body were submitted!


    In the report, the three expressed their willingness to offer the entire crystallized Divine Body of the fallen Lariro to the Sanctuary!


    For the Eighth Sanctuary, which rarely killed Evil Gods, this was an extremely valuable research material!


    Thus, when the report was submitted, the high-level officials of the Sanctuary were stunned by this news.


    Countless high-ranking eyes turned towards Liu Xiongyuan of Eastern City.


    However, before these officials could digest the news, the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" jointly submitted by Ye Mingfeng of Xinjie City Military Department, Dai Yukang, Rain Butterfly, and Qiu Tu were also delivered.


    If the slaying of a deity merely left the Sanctuary''s high-level officials shocked, at most causing them to see Liu Xiongyuan in a different light and elevate their assessment, without really dwelling on it afterward...


    Then the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" truly moved the Sanctuary''s high-ranking officials with significant benefits!


    They planned to exploit the ties between Evil Gods to usurp control of the Boundless Heart Sea, and then to study the region and the Evil Gods! S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The plan was both bold and sensible!


    Most importantly, it had very high executability!


    Especially after learning that the Evil God Lariro had already been subdued, the plan seemed to have a clear path forward, simply awaiting the Sanctuary''s approval to launch into full swing!


    With such immense benefit and merit, even the Sanctuary''s high-level officials were envious.


    After all, if the plan came to fruition, the Eighth Sanctuary might catch up with the progress of other Sanctuaries in a short time!


    This was a plan that could be recorded in the annals of the Sanctuary''s history!


    Therefore, today the high-level officials of the Sanctuary were particularly busy, with meetings following one after another, all focused on discussing Liu Xiongyuan''s elimination of Lariro and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan."


    The various reports were being turned over and scrutinized by the high-ranking officials.


    Among them, a name called "Qiu Tu" entered the vision of the Sanctuary''s high-level officials for the first time...


    This name was not only one of the four signatories of the "Grand Development Plan" but also appeared in Liu Xiongyuan''s report on the elimination of Lariro...


    The first to notice this was a council member from the Investigation Bureau faction within the Supreme Sanctuary Council...


    ------

 Chapter 286 Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    Eighth Sanctuary. Supreme Council. "Lin" 1026 Meeting.


    This was a temporary meeting convened by the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Eighth Sanctuary.


    However, the meeting was of high standard, not only were all the council members present, but several Deputy Speakers, along with the Speaker, Rao Shou, were also in attendance.


    Rao Shou was an elder with a celestial air about him, appearing kind and benevolent, his mere presence imparted a warm and affable feeling.


    But in fact, it was somewhat the opposite. As the representative of the "Iron-Blood Faction" of the Eighth Sanctuary, Rao Shou''s methods were always bloody and ruthless.


    Born in the military, he used to be the largest warlord in the region, commanding a heavily armed and well-equipped force.


    Even after the establishment of the Eighth Sanctuary, when various warlords and armed forces were reformed into the military, he still retained the largest military authority in the Sanctuary.


    And the leaders of various factions within the military were mostly his disciples and grand-disciples.


    For instance, Ye Mingfeng, was a "disciple" he had taken a liking to in recent years.


    This was a true champion who, with his own strength, impressively commanded the respect of other influential figures.


    Sitting beside Rao Shou were five Deputy Speakers, representing the other five major factions of the Sanctuary: the Fengtian Faction, Free Democracy Faction, Local Armed Alliance, Academic Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    These five factions held most of the power in the three major institutions of the Sanctuary. It was their cooperation, compromise and competition with each other, that had allowed the Eighth Sanctuary to develop rapidly in just over a decade.


    Among them... Wang Guochuan, the leader of the "Reformist Faction" whom Qiu Tu had met before, was seated in the last position among the Deputy Speakers.


    The atmosphere during the meeting was slightly different from that of previous ones, which always seemed tense and ready for conflict.


    But this time, most were engrossed in studying several reports in their hands and occasionally offering their own views, providing new ideas for others.


    For example, a council member from the military''s "Iron-Blood Faction" openly praised the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" submitted by Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang.


    He acclaimed it as one of the most valuable plans for the Eighth Sanctuary in recent years.


    Similarly, an "Reformist Faction" member from the City Hall lauded the feat of Liu Xiongyuan commanding and slaying Larilo.


    Claiming it to be the most outstanding combat plan of the Eighth Sanctuary in the past two years.


    Of course, in addition to praising individuals from their own factions, they also discussed the authenticity and feasibility of these reports and proposals.


    The outcome of the discussions was, of course, that the reports were genuine and the proposals were feasible.


    Some members expressed concerns that the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" might be too aggressive, especially since the true intentions of the Evil God had not been verified. If they entered the "Boundless Heart Sea" rashly, it could lead to disastrous losses.


    But... opportunity always comes with risks, so even though others shared these concerns, in the end, they felt that such a once-in-a-lifetime chance should not be missed.


    The Speaker and the five Deputy Speakers listened quietly to the council members'' discussions throughout.


    But judging by their consistently unopposed demeanor, they seemed inclined to proceed with the plan.


    So, by the end of the meeting, the members'' discussions had shifted from the feasibility of the plan to the idea of inviting some experts, and having Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang give a remote presentation of the entire plan, before finally deciding on this "Grand Development Plan."


    At that moment, a member from the Investigation Bureau''s "Academic Faction," noted a blind spot in several reports.


    He pointed to the name "Qiu Tu" that appeared several times in the reports, then said, "I think it''s fine for Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang to explain the plan to us... "


    "But what about inviting Qiu Tu to share his thoughts as well?"


    "I just checked his identity. He is a local, born and bred in Xinjie City, and became an investigator when Xinjie City was established."


    "In just a year, he advanced rapidly and eventually became the Deputy Director of the Political Department."


    "And in several reports, both Liu Xiongyuan and Ye Mingfeng have mentioned him."


    "If time allows, perhaps we could let him share his opinions as well."


    Most council members paid little attention to the suggestion.


    After all, a Deputy Director from the ordinary city''s Investigation Bureau Political Department was too far removed from their ranks, and with everyone''s busy schedules, finding the time to listen to Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang''s reports was already commendable.


    Thus, the suggestion was quickly passed over. The council members turned their attention back to the "Boundless Heart Sea Development" plan.


    However, what the members present failed to notice was that when the "Academic Faction" member mentioned the name "Qiu Tu," two Deputy Speakers seated in the front row exhibited contemplative expressions.


    They continued listening to the members'' discussions while skimming through the reports, pausing at the parts mentioning the name Qiu Tu.


    Among these two Deputy Speakers, one was Elder Wang Guochuan, the "Reformist Faction" leader whom Qiu Tu had previously met.


    The other was... Tang Xingyun, the leader of the "Fengtian Faction"....


    ...


    Meanwhile, as the temporary meeting of the Supreme Sanctuary Council proceeded apace.


    Qiu Tu was not idle either.


    Your journey continues on My Virtual Library Empire


    After learning that Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang had agreed to collaborate, he eagerly headed to the Security Department to claim a vial of the Cataclysmic Potion.


    The name of this Cataclysmic Potion was "Spiritual Sense Sharpening," designed to greatly enhance one''s Spiritual Perception, allowing one to sense danger in advance or detect the Power of Change.


    ``` S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 286 Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The primary function of this bottle of Cataclysmic Potion is actually to help ordinary people sense the Power of Change, making it easier for them to awaken and become Cataclysmics.


    However, if a Second Order Cataclysmic drinks it, they will possess effects similar to those of a Third Order Cataclysmic, such as seeing "spiritual bodies," "souls," and "consciousnesses." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before the Cataclysmic treasures that can imprison souls and consciousnesses arrive in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu must stabilize Larilo in the coming days.


    So, being able to see Larilo''s figure and prevent her from escaping without Qiu Tu noticing is the first step.


    As for the second step... Qiu Tu had already planned it long ago...


    ...


    At 9 o''clock in the evening, after a hard day''s work, Qiu Tu returned to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang, bringing Tan Huimin with him.


    By this time, Fang Tangtang had already come home.


    Having spent the day with Su Xiaowan, her mood was noticeably good.


    So she hummed a tune while steaming milk-flavored buns for Qiu Tu.


    Possibly possessing a talent in cooking, Fang Tangtang was able to steam the buns and simultaneously stir-fry two dishes at the same time.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin entered the villa, what greeted their eyes was Fang Tangtang, wearing an apron and busily multitasking in the kitchen.


    Seeing the adorable little chef before her, the already strained Tan Huimin''s expression soured further.


    She snorted lightly, then said, "You beast."


    Qiu Tu gave her a puzzled look but couldn''t be bothered to engage with her.


    Ever since Qiu Tu had released Zheng Tao, who then disappeared, Tan Huimin had been frantic.


    She repeatedly dialed Zheng Tao''s communicator and searched everywhere for him.


    After failing to find Zheng Tao, she kept calling Qiu Tu incessantly, but he had no time to deal with her last night.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu went to work today that Tan Huimin finally caught up with him.


    However, before she got the chance to ask where Zheng Tao went, Qiu Tu told her directly: He was prepared to tell her a secret about her and Zheng Tao.


    Initially, Tan Huimin did not want to engage with Qiu Tu, but since he claimed the secret was related to Zheng Tao''s disappearance, her curiosity was piqued, and she was forced to follow Qiu Tu to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    Having taken the Spiritual Sense Sharpening Potion on the way, Qiu Tu sat at the dining table and stealthily glanced at Fang Tangtang.


    Indeed... after enhancing his Spiritual Perception, Qiu Tu could finally see Larilo.


    Her Spiritual Body was still dressed in a long black dress.


    The dress clung to her delicately shaped body, outlining her near-perfect curves.


    Walking barefoot, her pale feet glowing like jade, she quietly clung to Fang Tangtang, and despite being weakened, her crimson eyes still gleamed with malice and mockery...


    To avoid detection, Qiu Tu averted his eyes after glancing at Larilo and then turned toward Tan Huimin.


    Perhaps due to Zheng Tao''s disappearance and the loss of her only support, Tan Huimin seemed ready to give up.


    She scoffed with a "heh" and then said, "You''re about to die, yet you''re still keeping a concubine in a gilded house."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave her a glance and asked, "About to die? What do you mean?"


    Tan Huimin coldly responded, "It seems you are really out of the loop now."


    "Director Yan held a high-level meeting today, and the first thing he did was to freeze the personnel appointments from this period."


    "Those appointments that have been concluded will continue for the time being, but those that haven''t will be suspended."


    Continuing, Tan Huimin added, "Moreover, it''s obvious he''s targeting just you and Director Tang."


    "As for Director Yu, Minister Shi, and even some neutral agents and section chiefs whose promotions he hasn''t suspended but allowed to remain in effect."


    Tan Huimin commented, "He''s pulling in one group and hitting another."


    "By not changing other people''s appointments, he can minimize the impact, and when the time comes to make a move against you, it will be exceedingly convenient."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly upon hearing this. Tan Huimin wasn''t lying; he also had heard about the meeting.


    But he wasn''t concerned. After all, his "battlefield" was now in the Sanctuary, not Xinjie City.


    If he could sort out the "battlefield" of the Sanctuary, then a small Xinjie City would naturally be no challenge at all.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not continue the topic, instead saying, "Madam Zheng, I think instead of worrying about me, you should worry about yourself."


    "The reason I had her come to my house is not for anything else, but because I''m worried about something happening to you." Find more chapters on My Virtual Library Empire


    With that, Qiu Tu took out an envelope and handed it over to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin, puzzled, took the envelope, opened it, and began to read.


    Qiu Tu didn''t disturb the beautiful widow but stood up to go to the kitchen.


    The envelope contained Zheng Tao''s confession about using the Mandragora Love Drug to control Tan Huimin and slaughtering her entire family, a document that Qiu Tu had asked Qin Shuman to photocopy that day.


    There were two purposes in handing over this confession to Tan Huimin. The first was that Qiu Tu felt Tan Huimin''s fate had been too bitter, and she deserved to know the truth.


    The second purpose was... to deceive Larilo, to stabilize her.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu rarely showed his gentle side.


    He went to the kitchen, then walked up behind Fang Tangtang and gently embraced her.


    Perhaps not expecting Qiu Tu to suddenly show her such affection, Fang Tangtang''s palm-sized oval face blushed "with a swell" of red.

 Chapter 286 Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She panicked, not knowing where to put her hands, her large eyes twinkling and already misting over with a thin layer of moisture.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "What''s the matter? Not quite used to it?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang nodded timidly and then said in a low voice, "Yes...it''s a bit."


    After speaking, perhaps worrying that Qiu Tu might misunderstand, she quickly added in a low voice, "But I like it."


    This girl was always like this: clearly timid, but could boldly express her feelings at certain critical moments.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gently stroked Fang Tangtang''s hair, then smiled and said, "That''s good if you like it." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After he finished speaking, Qiu Tu pointed at Tan Huimin, who was in great shock in the dining room due to that confession, and then asked, "Aren''t you curious about who she is?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang''s eyes, watery as they were, dimmed a bit.


    She said timidly with her head down, "It''s okay, no matter who it is... it doesn''t matter."


    Fang Tangtang might not ask, but Qiu Tu had to say!


    If he didn''t, how could he coax Larilo, and how could he turn Larilo into his own shape?


    Thinking that, Qiu Tu then began to explain, "She is the wife of a colleague of mine."


    "In order to get her, my colleague worshipped an Evil God and then obtained two potions from that Evil God. He used them on her, controlling her."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s explanation, Fang Tangtang felt a bit dizzy.


    Clearly, she, who had no idea about Supernatural Power or Evil Gods, was a bit lost in Qiu Tu''s words.


    So, she asked weakly, "Evil God? Potion? It can control... people?"


    Seeing her cute reaction, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then said, "Yes, you heard right. That''s how it is."


    Although she might still not fully understand what Qiu Tu meant, Fang Tangtang timidly asked, "So... that Evil God is bad, right?"


    Upon hearing Fang Tangtang''s question, Qiu Tu secretly gave a thumbs up inside: Just as expected of my little sweetheart, what a great question!


    Thinking that, Qiu Tu quickly put on a serious face and said, "No. I think that Evil God is good."


    Fang Tangtang: ???


    At this point, Fang Tangtang was completely confused.


    And at this moment, Qiu Tu timely explained, "One potion can both cure and kill, depending on the dosage."


    "If a small amount of that potion is used, it can enhance affection between men and women, stimulate desires between them, and make married life better."


    "And my colleague was clearly abusing the drug. It''s not the fault of the Evil God who created the potion."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, and then with a profound look, continued, "And... I have actually had dealings with that Evil God."


    "I think she''s a good person...God."


    "Not only is she beautiful, with a good figure, a nice personality, but she''s also been steadfast in her own way, not giving up or compromising for decades."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu deliberately expressed with excitement, "She just wants everyone to be able to reproduce whenever and wherever they want, what''s wrong with that!"


    "Why won''t Sanctuary, the Security Department, just leave her alone!"


    Continuing, Qiu Tu said, "Even if we take a step back and say she might be a bit bad."


    "But... she''s so beautiful, how bad can she really be?" Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    Fang Tangtang: ??


    This time, Fang Tangtang was genuinely baffled.


    She always felt like there was something not quite right about what Qiu Tu was saying, but she couldn''t pinpoint the issue.


    It just seemed... somehow illogical, or morally off.


    But what she didn''t know was... at this moment, as she listened to Qiu Tu, although Larilo, who was possessing her, was trying hard to control herself, she couldn''t keep the corners of her mouth from turning up!


    ------

 Chapter 287 Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Women are a rather miraculous creature.


    They inherently like to be complimented and praised.


    Moreover, no matter the identity of the person giving the compliment, or what their relationship is. Anyway, as long as it''s not someone they "despise", they tend to enjoy it.


    Even... praise from an enemy can heighten their sense of achievement.


    So even though Shuman had already categorized Qiu Tu within the "enemy" camp, hearing him compliment her beauty, good body, and personality, Larilo still felt truly exhilarated from the bottom of her heart!


    However, although she felt great inside, Larilo still hadn''t lost her reason.


    She keenly sensed something was off: What was Qiu Tu up to with this seemingly random praise?


    ''Has he discovered me?''


    At that thought, Larilo felt it was somewhat unlikely.


    The reason remained the same: If Qiu Tu had discovered her, he could have simply turned her over to the Security Department or captured her. There was no need for such coyness.


    As for whether Qiu Tu or the Security Department might possibly not possess Cataclysmic treasures capable of capturing Evil Gods, she considered that possibility as well.


    Larilo thought that given her value, once her presence was detected, the Sanctuary would definitely send Cataclysmic treasures capable of Capturing Evil Gods right away.


    Furthermore... she felt that with Qiu Tu''s shrewdness, if he had discovered her, but didn''t have the Cataclysmic treasures for capture, he would likely maintain the status quo and hold on to her.


    He wouldn''t be like now, deliberately praising her and attracting her attention.


    So... with that in mind, Larilo thought... perhaps Qiu Tu was genuinely praising her from his heart?


    ''It''s confusing...Let''s see how it goes.''


    With that thought, Larilo didn''t rashly try to escape but continued to possess Fang Tangtang, quietly listening in on their conversation. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All of Larilo''s emotional fluctuations were almost entirely within Qiu Tu''s view.


    Seeing that his sudden praise didn''t scare Larilo into running away, Qiu Tu smiled stealthily to himself: Success...


    The 36 strategies for dealing with women, [Testing the Boundaries].


    In the realm of scams or the "player", there''s a law: cast a wide net, but focus on what you catch.


    Many people think this wide casting is about asking out every girl they see, or flattering them, which is a big mistake.


    The most crucial point of this kind of net-casting is testing with very basic conversation tricks.


    Smart girls/targets, upon seeing these tricks, have already directly passed them by.


    Those left behind are often the girls and targets who are easily deceived.


    This is why after some frauds or players are exposed, countless people wonder how such crude tricks can deceive anyone?


    And "Testing the Boundaries", this strategy for dealing with women, follows the same principle.


    Use relatively simple conversation tricks to probe the "target''s" current state.


    If the target gets scared off, that''s fine... other remedial actions are waiting for her afterwards.


    But if the target accepts this probing, it actually reveals that she is now in a state that can be "hooked".


    The reason Qiu Tu dared to use such an aggressive method was that after forging a cooperation with the Security Department, Qin Shuman had already handed over the control of a 30-person surveillance team to him.


    So, outside of Longshan Road, Qiu Tu had already laid a trap; even if Larilo got startled, she wouldn''t be able to escape and would still be in the palm of Qiu Tu''s hand.


    With the probing now over, Qiu Tu felt assured. He could finally proceed to the third step of his plan.


    Looking at Fang Tangtang, whose eyes were almost spiraling, wearing a baffled expression, Qiu Tu''s acting skills exploded. He chuckled self-deprecatingly and said, "Alright, I know you''re not interested in this topic and don''t understand it."


    "You go ahead with your work, I''ll check on my friend."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu made as if to leave.


    Indeed, just as Qiu Tu expected, Fang Tangtang became anxious at the prospect. She quickly reached out and grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Possibly realizing that such a move was too bold, she immediately let go of Qiu Tu''s hand after grabbing it.


    Then she timidly said, "I''m not uninterested. I''m very interested."


    After speaking, she even turned around and turned off the stove, showing her readiness to listen to Qiu Tu''s speech. She then voluntarily brought the conversation back to the topic,


    "Qiu Tu... are you and that Evil God... um, Lord Evil God very close?"


    Qiu Tu was aiming for just this effect.


    It would be too fake if he initiated the conversation, but if Fang Tangtang directed the topic, it would seem much more real.


    So, hearing Fang Tangtang''s question, Qiu Tu showed a thoughtful expression.


    After a moment, he said earnestly, "Tangtang, you''re my woman, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s straightforward words, Fang Tangtang blushed and nodded. Explore more adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    Only then did Qiu Tu say, "Actually, we''re not close."


    Fang Tangtang: ??


    After that, Qiu Tu added, "At most, we can be considered to have a spiritual connection."


    Qiu Tu, with a hint of reminiscence, said, "The first time I knew about her was when investigating a case."


    "The perpetrator was a follower of hers. So, I voluntarily let her plant the Evil God''s Mark on me, and then I met her in a dream."


    "Later, we each had our own schemes, but ultimately we didn''t interfere with each other."


    "At the time, she joked that if she established herself in the real world, she would make me Archbishop."


    "And I joked that I wanted to be the Pope."


    Fang Tangtang, with her beautiful oval-shaped face full of seriousness, listened very attentively.


    The Larilo possessing her did the same...


    Qiu Tu continued, "Afterward, when the case ended, we actually didn''t have much to do with each other."

 Chapter 287 Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu pointed to the black uniform on his body and said, "You see, I''m from the Political Department, I''m not in charge of cases related to the Evil God."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu mention this "key information".


    Fang Tangtang, who had no understanding of the powers of the Investigation Bureau or The military''s various departments, was utterly confused but pretended to understand, timidly nodding her head.


    However, Qiu Tu''s words were obviously not meant for her, but for Larilo, who was attached to Fang Tangtang.


    Stay updated through My Virtual Library Empire


    Sure enough, when Larilo heard Qiu Tu say that, her eyes suddenly changed, pondering something.


    Qiu Tu spread his hands and then continued, "But, that Evil God seems to have fixated on me, constantly pestering me."


    Larilo: Hmm....


    Fang Tangtang continued to be confused.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "She wanted me to spy on a top-secret piece of information for her."


    "But she obviously overestimated me. How could I have access to that?"


    "Later on, she encountered a difficulty. She was trapped by a powerful expert."


    Fang Tangtang understood this part, so she asked with her big watery eyes full of curiosity, "And then?"


    Leaning against the stove, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "And then... that expert just so happened to have a grudge against me."


    "To help her, as well as myself, I made contact with her."


    "She of course actually wanted to deceive me, asking me to help her call for external support."


    Qiu Tu let out a scornful laugh, "I''m not stupid. With my special identity, how could I possibly cooperate with her, or help her?"


    Larilo''s "fists" clenched!


    But just then, Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, "But actually... I still wanted to save her."


    "So, afterwards, I set up a huge trap. I wanted to break that expert''s hold on her."


    "Only, breaking that hold would require the sacrifice of something she had been after all along (Moonlight Lake)."


    Fang Tangtang timidly asked, "What thing?"


    This time Qiu Tu shook his head, "It''s confidential. Can''t say."


    Qiu Tu wouldn''t tell, but Larilo was already deep in thought: Moonlight Lake?


    Sure enough, at this moment, Qiu Tu added, "That thing happens to be significantly related to that expert."


    "Once destroyed, that expert could not escape the blame."


    "So, I tricked that thing into being activated early, forcing the expert to choose one of two options."


    "Fortunately, the expert indeed chose to protect that thing and gave up keeping her imprisoned."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "And to let her understand my complex intentions, I purposely set the item''s activation time on the same day I had deceived her." (Chapter 267)


    Here, Qiu Tu laughed at himself, "It''s a pity... she seems to have no idea of my good intentions, nor does she know what I''ve done for her...."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, both Fang Tangtang, who was completely unaware of the story, and Larilo, who knew the story but understood it in a way completely different from Qiu Tu, fell silent...


    Fang Tangtang fell silent because: her beloved man was sharing his past with another girl in front of her, causing her heart to inexplicably feel a bit sour.


    She actually felt very wronged at this point, yet didn''t dare to express her feelings...


    Meanwhile, Larilo was silent because... this is not how the story goes, is it?!


    Was there such an ambiguous and positive relationship between her and Qiu Tu? Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Qiu Tu had been quietly doing so much for her behind her back?


    Was he a "loyal minister"?


    Larilo tried to recall her past interactions with Qiu Tu and then compared them to what Qiu Tu had said.


    It seemed... possible?


    Especially, that sudden outbreak at Moonlight Lake, Yan Chen was forced to release his Domain, allowing her to escape.


    Larilo had always felt it abrupt.


    But since she encountered an ambush later, she had speculated it to be a significant conspiracy from either Yan Chen or Qiu Tu.


    Now it seemed... that Qiu Tu had actually freed her from the crisis?


    And the ambush that followed was an accident?


    Thinking this way, it did seem reasonable...?


    Bullshit!


    Larilo was almost going crazy!


    She felt that the events were not as Qiu Tu described.


    Qiu Tu might have truly rescued her from Yan Chen, but the ambush that followed had to be arranged by Qiu Tu!


    Otherwise, how could it be such a coincidence that three Peak Third Order Cataclysmics appeared?!


    Do they think that Peak Third Order Cataclysmics are as common as cabbages?!


    So, for a moment, Larilo felt extremely angry!


    She felt like a miserable woman who had been dumped by a scumbag man, yet the scumbag boasted everywhere about how much he loved her!


    The key point was, she couldn''t even refute it!


    How could she argue? She couldn''t just pop out and explain to Fang Tangtang, could she?


    So, the more she thought, the angrier she got.


    However, after getting angry, she also pricked up her ears, wanting to continue listening to what Qiu Tu would say next.


    To see if he would explain the ambush she encountered.


    But who would have thought that Qiu Tu, this scoundrel, stopped discussing the topic right there.


    This was simply arousing Larilo''s curiosity: was Qiu Tu putting on an act of deep affection in front of his "current girlfriend"?


    Or... was there some misunderstanding, and she was misjudging Qiu Tu?


    For a moment, Larilo felt as if a cat''s claws were scratching at her heart, making it itch!


    All the changes in Larilo''s expression were caught in the corner of Qiu Tu''s eye...


    He kept his face expressionless, but his heart was blooming with laughter.


    ''Hooked!''


    The reason he went through so much trouble today was actually twofold.

 Chapter 287 Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The first goal was to tell Larilo that, actually... there might be more to this than meets the eye. That she might be a "loyal minister".


    Having planted this impression in Larilo''s heart, many of her future plans would be easier to execute.


    The second goal was... to pique Larilo''s curiosity. Indeed, the recent events had a "hidden truth", but what that was, he wouldn''t tell her.


    It was all about baiting Larilo...


    About her biggest secret downfall, Qiu Tu didn''t believe he couldn''t hook Larilo with it.


    When it came to grasping the hearts of women, Qiu Tu was getting more and more adept.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had perfectly completed his mission, also left the kitchen with a pretense of melancholy afterward.


    He left behind an even more melancholic Larilo, and... Fang Tangtang.


    Possibly troubled by Qiu Tu''s story about his "ex-girlfriend", the little cook Fang Tangtang stood there with her head lowered, almost not wanting to cook anymore...


    She glanced at Qiu Tu several times, wanting to talk more with him, but she lacked the courage to do so.


    And thinking of how Qiu Tu still hadn''t had his dinner, in the end, she could only suppress her discomfort and silently started cooking for him again...


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had stepped back into the living room.


    There, Tan Huimin, having finished reading all the documents and testimonies, was completely devastated.


    Her usually gentle and dignified makeup and hair were now a mess, as if she had just been ravished by Qiu Tu.


    Her eyes were vacant, unfocused as she stared at the wall in front of her, her luscious lips parted, her body trembling uncontrollably. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But when she heard Qiu Tu''s footsteps, she snapped back to reality as if she had found an outlet for her anger, and with bloodshot eyes, she screamed at Qiu Tu, "Impossible! This is false! All of it is fake!" Read new adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    "You fraud! Scum!"


    "Smack." Qiu Tu took out his gun and slammed it coldly on the table.


    Tan Huimin''s voice stopped abruptly.


    Facing the beautiful young lady in front of him, Qiu Tu didn''t need to be as careful as he was with Larilo.


    So when it''s time to be tough, he''s tough.


    "Who allowed you to go crazy? Who do you think you are talking to?" Qiu Tu said coldly, looking at Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin took a deep breath but still didn''t have the courage to continue her outburst.


    After all, Qiu Tu was now one of the forty most powerful people in Xinjie City.


    Just like Yan Chen and Jia Shu before him, he could kill a Second-Class Investigator and wouldn''t even need to write a report.


    If he killed her, she would just be dead...


    Facing life and death, even the maddest woman would calm down. They went mad only because men tolerated them.


    And now, seeing Tan Huimin had calmed down,


    Qiu Tu snorted coldly.


    He wasn''t the type to abandon allies once they had outlived their usefulness, he had already planned a "compensation" after using Tan Huimin tonight.


    So he said, "Leave the villa now. Go outside to the courtyard. The Security Department''s personnel will take you to see your husband."


    "Whether it''s true or false, just ask him directly." Qiu Tu finished speaking, signaled briefly, then turned and left the living room without any reluctance.


    He was very busy tonight!


    Apart from deceiving Larilo and revealing the truth to Tan Huimin, he still had to lay the groundwork for his path to "Head of the Political Department"!


    In recent times, Qiu Tu was no longer a political novice.


    He knew full well that the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" was just a stepping stone, an opportunity.


    But it was not the determining factor for victory.


    After all, he was only a co-initiator of the plan, not the main person in charge.


    People like that could be replaced at any time.


    Therefore, he also had to forge relationships with the higher-ups of the Sanctuary!


    ------


    Twenty-thousand words in Chapter 2, ha! Vote for the Monthly Ticket! I''ll continue with ten thousand words tomorrow! Oh, it should be today actually... another chapter at 4 a.m., ha.

 Chapter 288 Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As for making connections with the upper echelons of which Sanctuary?


    Qiu Tu had already thought of someone ¡ª Elder Wang.


    In the last few days, he had learned about the faction distribution in the Eighth Sanctuary from Tang Feifei.


    According to Tang Feifei, the Eighth Sanctuary had only been established for about a decade, and it was the prime time for faction integration and division.


    Inside the three major institutions, there were over a dozen factions, large and small.


    The largest ones included six: the Iron-Blood Faction, Fengtian Faction, Free Democracy Faction, Local Armed Alliance, Academic Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    Among them, the Iron-Blood Faction was the largest faction in the Eighth Sanctuary, headed by Speaker Rao Shou, with its main influence within the military.


    The middle and upper ranks of the Iron-Blood Faction mostly came from the military. They were either former subordinates of Rao Shou or military leaders and warlords with good relations with him.


    Thus, they held the most formidable armed forces and troops of the Eighth Sanctuary.


    The second-ranking was the Fengtian Faction. The name "Fengtian Faction" comes from the former location of the Eighth Sanctuary, "Fengtian City."


    This faction had a regional character, primarily consisting of three major political families surrounding Fengtian City: the Tang Family, Zhou Family, and Song Family.


    These three political families were centuries-old before the Cataclysm, powerful in their own right. Although they lost a significant portion of their power due to the Cataclysm, they still had a wealth of talented individuals, and their followers were also exceptionally capable.


    Initially, the Eighth Sanctuary was established with Rao Shou as the framework, and these families as the flesh and blood.


    Hence, their influence spread across various departments in City Hall and the Investigation Bureau.


    And Tang Feifei was the legitimate descendant of this faction.


    The third major power was the Academic Faction, which could be considered a foreign faction.


    During the formation period of the Eighth Sanctuary, the Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sanctuaries all provided certain support.


    The most significant support was helping to establish a comprehensive talent system and training institutions, namely The Eighth Sanctuary Military Academy.


    Officers who came from the Military Academy naturally carried the traits of this faction, such as Huang Shangzong, Yan Chen, Jia Shu, Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin, all belonged to this faction.


    Due to its training mechanisms, the main influence of the Academic Faction lay within the Investigation Bureau and the military.


    The fourth major power was the Local Armed Alliance.


    Though the establishment of the Eighth Sanctuary was dominated by major warlords like Rao Shou, it also embraced several medium and small armed forces.


    To avoid being swallowed up by Rao Shou, they spontaneously formed a tight alliance and, with support from the Third Sanctuary, they gained a firm foothold in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    In the fourth year, they successfully obtained a Deputy Speaker position, securing their own influence.


    The fifth and sixth major factions differed from the previous four.


    The first four factions included camp-based and region-based factions, while the fifth and sixth were ideological factions:


    The Free Democracy Faction and the Reformist Faction.


    The former was founded by a figure of substantial influence before the Cataclysm.


    He was one of the founders of the Eighth Sanctuary, advocating for the restoration of pre-catastrophe free democracy, which is ¡ª universal suffrage.


    The Free Democracy Faction hoped to grant every adult citizen of the Sanctuary the right to vote, unrestricted by status, gender, or wealth scale.


    They demanded the enactment of laws to protect the democratic nature of the Sanctuary and limit the power of the higher-ups.


    The latter (Reformist Faction) was established by Elder Wang. Its primary political endeavor was to reform the political system, to achieve democracy, civil rights, and people''s livelihoods!


    Its main political demands were: breaking the lifelong tenure system of the Sanctuary''s higher-ups, opening up pathways for middle-level advancement, and conducting reasonable democratic selection processes.


    However, these two factions, being "ideological," didn''t have their own political "base" like the preceding four factions, so their influence was much smaller.


    But as the Sanctuary''s development accelerated, the consciousness of the middle class and the public was awakening, and the strength of these two factions was also growing.


    This is also the main reason why the Supreme Council added two Deputy Speaker positions in the last few years, bringing them into the fold.


    After understanding the situation of all factions from Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu did a quick calculation.


    If his guess was right, Ye Mingfeng should be from the Iron-Blood Faction, and Yan Chen was part of the Academic Faction.


    Commissioner Jiang was most likely from the Free Democracy Faction or the Reformist Faction ¡ª as he didn''t seem too familiar with Tang Feifei. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And through analyzing the relationships of Dai Yukang, Qin Shuman, and Ye Mingfeng, it was likely that the two of them were from the Iron-Blood Faction as well.


    Tang Feifei belonged to the Fengtian Faction, and Liu Xiongyuan to the Reformist Faction.


    So, as Tang Feifei had mentioned, all the high-ranking officials of the major cities, or those in line for high-level positions, indeed needed to have factional backgrounds.


    The factions Qiu Tu could reach were only three: Iron-Blood Faction, Fengtian Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    The former two were powerful, but Qiu Tu''s standards were quite different from theirs, and even if he could join, he would be a fringe member with little support.


    Therefore, after considering all options, the Reformist Faction was still the best fit for Qiu Tu.


    No wonder Liu Xiongyuan, after recognizing his potential, immediately took him to see Elder Wang; and when Tang Feifei found out, she did no "persuading" to keep him ¡ª the Reformist Faction indeed was the most suitable place for Qiu Tu now.


    Thinking this way, and after going through the information about the six major factions of the Sanctuary in his mind, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated.


    He picked up the Communicator, ready to call Liu Xiongyuan, and formally join the Reformist Faction.

 Chapter 288 Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Have Liu Xiongyuan recommend to the upper echelons within the [Reformist Faction]. Then using the title of one of the initiators of the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan," let him rise up another level.... sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Picking up the specially made Communicator to contact Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu pressed the numbers and then brought the Communicator to his ear.....


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was making the call, Tan Huimin was still in the living room, not having left.


    To tell the truth, she hadn''t quite processed everything yet.


    Originally, her visit to Qiu Tu''s villa today was with the mindset of "the wind howls and the waters chill."


    She thought that Zheng Tao''s disappearance yesterday and Qiu Tu asking her to come to his home today were all part of Qiu Tu''s schemes.


    ¡ª Qiu Tu wanted to threaten her with Zheng Tao''s safety, forcing her to comply.


    Therefore, before coming to Qiu Tu''s villa, Tan Huimin had already braced herself for the possibility of losing herself to Qiu Tu.


    This was also the reason why she showed no false kindness to Qiu Tu when she first entered the door¡ªshe detested this man who had hurt her husband and humiliated her.


    However... after arriving at the villa, Tan Huimin found that everything was different from what she had thought.


    Not only did Qiu Tu not lay a finger on her, but he even actively gave her space and provided her with a document.


    That document was a confession from her husband, Zheng Tao.


    In the confession, Zheng Tao fully described how he had obtained her and slaughtered her entire family.


    To be honest, Tan Huimin''s hands were shaking as she read the confession.


    Although she had fallen for Zheng Tao under the influence of the "Mandragora Love Drug," she wasn''t a fool!


    There were many dubious points about the incidents in the past, but because Zheng Tao had brainwashed her and she had no one else to rely on, she had chosen to overlook them selectively.


    Now, with the whole truth laid out before her, how could she not discern what was real from what was fake!


    So, she crumbled, and she despaired.


    So... when Qiu Tu appeared before her again, she wanted to vent everything on Qiu Tu, to hurt the man who told her the truth!


    Plainly put, she had been living in a false dream for years. Thus, she was somewhat unable to accept returning to reality.


    Unexpectedly, although Qiu Tu stopped her outburst, he wasn''t annoyed with her. Instead, he still arranged for her a way to verify the truth of the matter.


    Thinking of this... Tan Huimin was momentarily lost in thought.


    She found that she didn''t quite know how to treat Qiu Tu.


    Was Qiu Tu her benefactor or her enemy?


    How should she face Qiu Tu in the future? How should she face Zheng Tao?


    Lost in these thoughts, her eyes drifted aimlessly before she slowly stood up, according to what Qiu Tu had said earlier, ready to head to the Security Department to see her "husband."


    Although she almost believed all of it, she still wanted to hear her husband''s own admission.


    As for what she would do after the admission?


    She hadn''t thought it through.


    Take revenge on Zheng Tao?


    But what sort of revenge could make Zheng Tao suffer as she had?


    With these thoughts, Tan Huimin listlessly left the villa and then boarded the Security Department''s sedan, heading towards the Security Department¡­.


    At this moment, she had no idea where her future path would lead¡­.


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu also didn''t know where his future path would lead.


    He listened to the words of Liu Xiongyuan''s secretary on the other end of the phone, baffled.


    "I apologize, Minister Qiu. Director Liu has just evolved into a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and has entered seclusion for cultivation. He is estimated to require approximately three days. "


    "Before he went into seclusion, he specifically instructed me to record your message if you were to call and to get in touch with you as soon as he finishes his seclusion."


    Hearing the words of Liu Xiongyuan''s secretary, Qiu Tu asked in disbelief, "Director Liu has advanced to Fourth-order so soon?"


    "When did he advance?"


    The secretary said with a laugh, "Since last night. He succeeded this morning."


    "Director Liu has been lucky. After accumulating for so many years and obtaining the ''Boundless Divine Crystal,'' the breakthrough was just a matter of course."


    "Additionally, the ''Boundless Divine Crystals'' he saved for you have also been prepared in advance. He will hand them over to you after coming out of seclusion."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Did Qiu Tu care about what ''Boundless Divine Crystals'' were? He was concerned about his own future!


    His Cataclysmic Path was special; unlike other Cataclysmics, he couldn''t rely on external forces to advance, but had to be tied to an official position.


    Thus, advancing in rank was far more crucial to him than any Cataclysmic Material.


    And now, at the most critical moment, Liu Xiongyuan was going into seclusion for three days!?


    Qiu Tu was stunned.


    Three days... by then, the chance would have passed!


    Given the significance of the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan," everything would have been decided in three days!


    Uncle Liu! I was thinking of serving you as a son in your old age since you have no son, but you set me up?


    For a moment, Qiu Tu was speechless.


    After hanging up the call, Qiu Tu''s internal balance swung back and forth between "leaving it to luck" and "making another attempt."


    Leaving it to luck would be... to see if Elder Wang still remembered him.


    If he did, then becoming the Head of the Political Department would probably be settled with a nod from Elder Wang.


    If not, then all would be lost.


    As for making another attempt... that meant selling himself again.


    The only relationship Qiu Tu could rely on now was Tang Feifei.


    If need be, he would work hard for another few days and nights, taking good care of Tang Feifei. Then exchange for the Fengtian Faction''s support.


    However, by doing so, he would inevitably bear the mark of the Fengtian Faction. He wasn''t sure how that would affect his future prospects¡­.

 Chapter 288 Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    After hanging up the call, Qiu Tu stood quietly by the window for a while.


    In the end, he made up his mind, to take a gamble!


    In any industry, anything, it''s either advance or retreat!


    When an opportunity presents itself, if you let it pass, it might mean lagging one step behind, and then every step!


    Moreover, in the current cataclysmic chaos, what future is there!


    "Now" is "the future"!


    Only by seizing the present can one have a future!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated. He went to the kitchen, briefly notified Fang Tangtang of his urgent need to go out, and then hurriedly left the villa.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Fang Tangtang''s timid eyes were filled with affectionate concern.


    She felt that a major figure like Qiu Tu really had it tough.


    So late, yet so hardworking.


    As for Larilo...


    She was equally surprised.


    She had originally thought that after Qiu Tu flirted with her, he would press his advantage or wait for her to contact him.


    But... he just left? S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''So... he really didn''t notice me?''


    ''Did he mean everything he said tonight?''


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was rushing to Tang Feifei''s house to use the promotion device and get promoted,


    Yan Chen sat in the darkness behind his desk in the study of his City Center Garden villa, smoking a cigarette. The bright ember flickered on and off in the dim room.


    His brow was furrowed, his face filled with frustration and disbelief.


    "What? Qiu Tu, Ye Mingfeng, and Dai Yukang have joined forces? In the name of the Political Department, they''ve initiated a ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' with the military and Security Department?"


    The man on the other end of the phone spoke with a strong voice, "I''ve faxed you all the relevant information."


    "You can take a look. The plan is very detailed and reliable. It has great feasibility."


    "The Sanctuary is taking this plan very seriously. Several Speakers have also given their approval."


    "It has been listed as one of the Sanctuary''s most significant projects for the upcoming year."


    As he spoke, the man paused, and then said in a steady and powerful voice, "It''s because of this plan that the establishment of Dongye State may be advanced once again."


    "In five days, I will arrive in Eastern City to form the Dongye State Council and take office as the Speaker."


    With this, the man''s identity became clear¡ªhe was none other than Huang Shangzong, one of the top figures in the Sanctuary and the first Dongye State Council Speaker.


    Huang Shangzong paused and then continued, "As for the choice of Deputy Speaker, the decision has also been made today."


    "Liu Xiongyuan, who designed, commanded, and killed a Fourth-Order Evil God, and advanced to a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic."


    "Ye Mingfeng, the highest ranking military officer with the greatest merit, and the proposer of the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development'' plan."


    "And Li Tingdong, the strongest and most economically effective from the City Hall faction."


    "Oh, and there have been some new changes in Dongye State this time. There''s a new Deputy Speaker-level position of Director of Security Bureau."


    "And Dai Yukang, with the merits from the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' has landed this spot. He has become the highest official in charge of Dongye State''s secret security and supernatural power management affairs."


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, even someone as crafty as Yan Chen''s face grew exceptionally ugly.


    His heart bled...


    Because all of this should have been his!


    He could have become a Deputy Speaker by devouring Larilo and advancing to a Fourth-Order Cataclysmic!


    But unexpectedly, the fall of one person raised three Deputy Speaker-level figures!


    Nevertheless, as the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, Yan Chen was a man who never let his emotions show. So, he didn''t reveal his feelings but calmly analyzed, "This time, I was truly outplayed by them."


    "But it has also sounded an alarm for me."


    "These individuals are no ordinary players. We can''t give them any more chances to develop."


    He paused and then said, "So... can we hold up Qiu Tu''s side a bit?"


    After a moment''s thought, he continued, "He doesn''t have much of a foundation in the Sanctuary. And now, with Liu Xiongyuan in seclusion and unable to plan for him, we should be able to stall him, right?"


    --------


    A 10,000-word chapter, ha! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 289 The Big Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Compared to Yan Chen, Huang Shangzong obviously felt much more unfamiliar with Qiu Tu.


    So when he heard Yan Chen mention that he wanted to hinder Qiu Tu''s progress, his first reaction was confusion.


    After all, the gap between him and Qiu Tu was like the bright moon in the sky compared to the fireflies on the ground.


    A minor Deputy Chief of the Political Department was truly unable to catch his eye, nor did he deem him worth targeting.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have simply sent an advisor from his side to handle the situation when he suspected Qiu Tu was related to the assassination of Jia Shu.


    Therefore, he asked hesitantly, "Is a minor Deputy Chief of the Political Department worth such attention?"


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Yan Chen''s murky eyes grew even deeper.


    He squeezed out a smile, then explained, "Elder Huang... You might be underestimating this little fellow."


    "What I need to remind you is that although Qiu Tu is currently just a deputy chief, a year ago he was merely a commoner living at the bottom of the Disaster Zone."


    "And two months ago, he was only a Second-Class Investigator."


    "In the course of two months, he was consecutively promoted to First Level Detective, Deputy Staff, Principal Staff, Deputy Division Chief."


    "And now, he''s even aiming to become the Chief of the Political Department. Once successful, he will completely open the pathway to rise higher, soaring to the sky."


    After introducing Qiu Tu''s situation, Yan Chen continued with a deep tone,


    "Moreover... he is indeed crafty, cunning, and ruthless."


    "First, one of my maids was secretly killed by him, then the opposed Jia Shu was trapped and murdered, and finally, even Wu Zhi, whom you sent, was mysteriously assassinated."


    "One incident could be a coincidence, but the probability of them all being coincidences is too small."


    "Although there are no clues pointing directly to him as the backstage culprit, it further proves his skillfulness, proficiency, and the cleanliness and decisiveness of his methods."


    Pausing for a moment, Yan Chen added, "Such craftiness and ruthlessness will only cause greater destruction once promoted to higher levels."


    "So, all this is not for my personal interest, but for justice."


    Yan Chen was clearly very familiar with Huang Shangzong and understood his character well.


    Therefore, after his remarks, Huang Shangzong on the other end of the phone started to seriously consider the matter concerning Qiu Tu.


    Sensing the shift in Huang Shangzong''s emotions, Yan Chen slowly added, "And... Elder Huang, Qiu Tu''s promotion does not meet the standards."


    "His promotion has been too rapid recently. According to convention, he should not be promoted again."


    "Furthermore, all officials above division chief level are required to undergo training in the Sanctuary, and he has never undergone it, which does not comply with the regulations."


    By plainly stating that Qiu Tu did not meet the requirements, Yan Chen was in effect supplying Huang Shangzong with ammunition. He was pointing out the weaknesses in Qiu Tu''s promotion to Huang Shangzong.


    So after listening to Yan Chen''s words, Huang Shangzong, after a moment''s consideration, said carefully, "If that''s the case then, I''ll mention it when I review the personnel arrangements of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    After speaking, as if something occurred to him, he inquired, "By the way, has he joined the ''Iron-Blood Faction''?"


    "Otherwise, why would the military''s plan include him?"


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    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Yan Chen took a deep drag on his cigarette, then, narrowing his aged eyes, he pondered a moment before saying, "He should not have."


    "He seems to have some kind of connection with Dai Yukang, but probably not to the extent of joining the Iron-Blood Faction."


    Continuing, Yan Chen added, "The man is very good at cultivating relationships. Not only Dai Yukang, but even Jiang Zhenpeng, and Tang family''s Tang Feifei, are closely associated with him."


    "Plus, Liu Xiongyuan has had dealings with him in the past."


    "He truly knows how to dance with long sleeves."


    Since Wu Zhi was killed, Huang Shangzong obviously hadn''t received any information about Qiu Tu, so now, hearing Yan Chen''s description,


    he finally understood the unique aspects of Qiu Tu.


    This time, he commented thoughtfully, "If a person is of unrighteous mind, the more capable they are, the more destructive they become."


    Yan Chen exhaled a puff of smoke, putting out the cigarette butt in the ashtray and nodded, "Precisely."


    Yan Chen continued, "So, while he hasn''t fully developed yet, we should press him down."


    Huang Shangzong "hmm"ed and then followed up with a question, "What is his relationship like with Jiang Zhenpeng, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei?"


    "Will these factions potentially come to his aid when the time comes?"


    Yan Chen thought for another two seconds before answering, "He owes Liu Xiongyuan a favor, so Liu is the most likely to help him."


    "But Liu Xiongyuan''s retreat was very sudden, and he probably didn''t have the time or prior arrangements to contact the top echelons of the Reformist Faction on his behalf."


    "Jiang Zhenpeng has a good relationship with him, but not to the extent that he would use or introduce his connections.


    "The only variable is Tang Feifei."


    "The Tang family is now extremely powerful, with influence spanning across military, political, and commercial sectors, possessing deep connections within the Investigation Bureau and being the current head of the Fengtian Faction."


    "However, because of this, the internal competition within the Tang family is also very fierce. As the daughter of the Tang family''s main branch, Tang Feifei, although greatly favored by Elder Tang, also faces brutal competition."


    "Moreover, as a daughter of the Tang family, her marriage can only be a political alliance. Qiu Tu, as her clandestine lover, can''t be brought to the forefront."


    "That woman is very astute and calm. She won''t give other competitors any handle at such a crucial time."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Huang Shangzong "hmm"ed, then spoke, "Alright, I''ll make some arrangements tomorrow..." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Finally securing Huang Shangzong''s promise, Yan Chen couldn''t help but reveal a smile on his face.

 Chapter 289 The Big Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    It''s not that he wanted to target Qiu Tu. The main issue was... Qiu Tu''s development was too fast, so fast that even today, upon reflection, it startled him.


    Moreover, the Head of the Political Department of a city might not matter to Huang Shangzong, the State Speaker, but it mattered to Yan Chen, the Investigation Bureau Chief of the city.


    You see, the Head of the Political Department is one of the highest ranks in the Investigation Bureau, eligible to join senior meetings.


    And among the nine senior members, the Head of the Political Department ranks just below a few bureau chiefs, making it the top post among the directors.


    Moreover, the Political Department controls the Investigation Bureau''s intelligence system, and if Qiu Tu were to gain control, then Yan Chen would be left blind and deaf.


    That was why Yan Chen had been persistently persuading Huang Shangzong to check Qiu Tu''s rise today...


    Now that he had Huang Shangzong''s promise, Yan Chen could finally relax a little.


    But he didn''t place all his hopes on Huang Shangzong.


    He lit another cigarette, pondered quietly for a moment, and then picked up the desk phone again to call the Sanctuary...


    Huang Shangzong held too high a position and might not take the matter to heart. Therefore, he planned to find a few more "Academic Faction" friends from the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department, to give a hint, a reminder...


    For example... the Director of the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department who is in charge of all the Director-level appointments in the Planning Area...


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    As Yan Chen was trying by all means to stop Qiu Tu from becoming the Head of the Political Department,


    Qiu Tu drove to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    As a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, even Tang Feifei''s two layers of security didn''t dare to check Qiu Tu''s car; they just saluted and let him pass.


    After getting out of the car, Qiu Tu entered the door with practiced ease.


    The maid inside the house bowed to Qiu Tu and then said, "The Bureau Chief is on the phone. Please wait in the living room."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded and walked into the living room.


    After waiting for two to three minutes, Tang Feifei came over, holding a communicator, having a few cold words before approaching.


    Reaching the living room, the call just ended, and she took off the communicator, then casually placed it on the bar counter.


    Afterward, with an expressionless wheatish face, she looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "Coming to see me so late, you must have something in mind, right?"


    Qiu Tu sharply sensed Tang Feifei''s somewhat cold demeanor that night.


    So he didn''t start with his own business right away and instead tested the waters by asking, "Feeling upset?"


    On hearing this, Tang Feifei rubbed her temples, then picked up a cup, poured some water and drank, saying, "It''s okay. Just some annoying family matters."


    Qiu Tu asked, "Can I help?"


    Tang Feifei glanced at him without saying anything, but her meaning was all too clear.


    Qiu Tu, thick-skinned, didn''t mind.


    After finishing the water in her cup, Tang Feifei asked, "Let''s not talk about me. Let''s talk about you."


    "You don''t visit without a reason. You must be here for something important, right?"


    Although Qiu Tu knew it wasn''t the right opportunity, he had come all the way, and since Tang Feifei kept pressing, it wasn''t good for him to hide anything.


    So, he had to look at Tang Feifei seriously and say, "Indeed, there''s a matter."


    "I am thinking... of becoming the Head of the Political Department."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei let out a light laugh, "And I fancy becoming the Head of the Tang Family."


    Qiu Tu looked at her then earnestly said, "I''m not joking. And... I really have a chance."


    After that, Qiu Tu simply explained the cooperation with the military and the joint initiation of the "Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan."


    In the end, Qiu Tu somewhat awkwardly said, "Actually... I didn''t want to bother you."


    "But now that Liu Xiongyuan is in seclusion, my connection with the ''Reformist Faction'' is cut off; they can''t help me, so I had no choice but to come to you."


    Tang Feifei''s mood tonight was either explosive, or she was genuinely upset.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, her wheat-colored face turned frosty.


    She squinted at Qiu Tu and bluntly said, "Your experience is too shallow, and you''ve risen too quickly."


    "Even with this project as a stepping stone, it''ll still be difficult to promote you."


    "So... why should I help you?"


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    Seeing Qiu Tu wanted to explain, Tang Feifei, as if guessing his rhetoric, shook her head, "Don''t sell me the pie in the sky of how you can help me after becoming the Head of the Political Department."


    "Qiu Tu, to be honest. Bringing in a department head from the same faction from the Sanctuary would cost us less than promoting you."


    Having said that, Tang Feifei asked again, "So, what can you offer? What''s your bargaining chip?"


    Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Two days and two nights?"


    Tang Feifei:....


    Tang Feifei let out a cold laugh, "You don''t really take me for that kind of person, do you?"


    "Do you think I care about those few pounds of flesh?"


    ```


    Qiu Tu didn''t say a word, but his meaning couldn''t have been clearer.


    Tang Feifei: ???


    The veins on Tang Feifei''s forehead throbbed visibly.


    She laughed out of sheer frustration, "Fine, fine, fine! Come on! Let me check the merchandise first!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Chief, I am a man with principles. The price is set; no trials allowed..."


    "Mmm... of course, a little taste test is okay."


    "Hehe..." Did the woman with Tang Feifei''s personality care about what Qiu Tu thought?


    Ignoring him completely, she tore off her uniform with both hands, then lifted those long, slender legs and, with a stride full of wildness, she stepped toward Qiu Tu!


    Trial? Taste test?


    The children of the major families in the Sanctuary never had such concepts!


    Although she didn''t point at things and directly tell her elders, "Grandpa, I want that," like others did.


    But... what she wanted, she would definitely have!


    Perhaps sensing Tang Feifei''s peculiar mood that evening, Qiu Tu was also fully alert.


    The stronger a woman appeared, the more favorability one could gain from conquering her.


    The higher the waves, the more expensive the fish!


    Opportunity always accompanied danger at its side!


    So, this time, Qiu Tu first lured the enemy deep, allowing the irritable Tang Feifei to take the initiative.


    He gave her plenty of time to showcase herself.


    Finally, as Tang Feifei''s strength was waning, it was time for the serf to turn the tables and sing!


    He entered berserk mode!


    This battle strategy was indeed very effective.


    So even though Tang Feifei was completely out of strength, she still matched Qiu Tu in a "tug-and-pull" that was quite substantial!


    An hour and a half later.


    Qiu Tu, cradling Tang Feifei''s wild body, lit a cigarette and said nonchalantly, "Are you satisfied with this trial then?"


    Perhaps some activities really can change a person''s mood.


    After some venting, Tang Feifei was in a much better mood.


    She stretched languidly, chuckled lightly, and deliberately said, "It''s alright. Barely passable."


    By the end, she added another comment, "Just enough to let me have my fun."


    Was Qiu Tu going to let her get away with that verbal advantage?


    He laughed, "Hehe," and threw a boomerang back at Tang Feifei, "You''re still not satisfied with that? And you say you''re not that kind of person."


    Tang Feifei:.....


    Tang Feifei realized that Qiu Tu was toxic. He had a way of turning any conversation into a double bind.


    No matter what you said, it was wrong.


    When it came to verbal sparring, two of her wouldn''t match up to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, she no longer hoped to beat Qiu Tu verbally but flipped over, ready to initiate a second round of battle!


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s unscrupulousness, acting on impulse because she couldn''t win with words, Qiu Tu hurriedly exclaimed, "Wait a minute, Chief. The trial has ended, and the price now is different!"


    "What should the Head of the Political Department say?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei actually stopped in her tracks.


    She propped up her hands on either side of Qiu Tu''s neck and said with a cold face, "Qiu Tu... guess why I wasn''t happy tonight?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback at first. Then a flash of realization crossed his eyes.


    He harbored a guess in his heart, but he dared not confirm it, and... he hadn''t thought of a way to explain it yet.


    So, he could only pretend to be indifferent and replied, "Didn''t you say it''s because of your family?"


    "It must be someone in your family who made you unhappy, right?"


    Tang Feifei laughed, "Hehe," and said, "Indeed, they made me unhappy."


    "Because my second uncle, acting as a family representative, called and gave me an earful." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "He said I was clueless about something as huge as the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Project''."


    "My second uncle asked me: This affair was obviously something you and the military were collaborating on. Why did I not hear a whisper of it? This prevented our family from being able to layout strategies and get involved early on."


    "The family smoothed things over with Jia Shu for you, paving your way to become the vice-minister. You and I have such a close relationship. Yet for such a big issue, you didn''t even breathe a word to me, not a hint of consultation."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was momentarily at a loss for words.


    Before Qiu Tu could explain, Tang Feifei said indifferently, "Do you know how I responded?"

 Chapter 290 Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    Perhaps because Tang Feifei was discussing something very serious, Qiu Tu didn''t play his usual clever jokes but asked earnestly, "What did you say?"


    Tang Feifei glanced at Qiu Tu indifferently and then said, "I told them, in fact, I know your entire plan.


    "And that I had given my approval."


    To tell the truth, Tang Feifei''s choice really surprised Qiu Tu.


    He couldn''t help saying, "But... doing this, it will be hard to explain to your family later, right?"


    "When the Tang family discovers they still can''t get involved with the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' wouldn''t your trouble be even greater?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked down on Qiu Tu from her higher position and continued to ask, "So why do you think I lied to them?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated, "It couldn''t be... because of me, could it?"


    Tang Feifei laughed softly and said, "You guessed it. It is indeed because of you."


    She said coldly, "Others don''t know about your relationship with the military, but I do."


    "Although they''ve been trying to win you over, they''ve never treated you as one of their own."


    "For such an important plan, they wouldn''t add your name for no reason and give you such a big credit."


    "So there must be some leverage you have over them."


    "After gaining leverage over them, asking to have your name added implies that you want to use this to achieve a certain goal."


    Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a cold glance, "You are not one for wealth or fame. Surrounded by beauties, the only thing that can move your heart is power."


    "So, once I knew you were involved in the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' I guessed you were using this project to vie for the position of Director of the Political Department."


    At this point, Tang Feifei paused and then said, "Your information isn''t as current, but I knew as of last night that Liu Xiongyuan had advanced to Fourth Order and then went into seclusion."


    "Obviously, he doesn''t know about the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' so he didn''t arrange things for you in advance."


    "So once he went into seclusion, your connection to the ''Reformist Faction'' was cut off."


    "And since the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' is a priority for the Sanctuary, they won''t wait for him to come out of seclusion to make arrangements." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Without his help to work this out, who else could you turn to?"


    At this point, Tang Feifei used her left hand for support and pointed at her own face with the right, "Naturally, you''d have to come to me."


    "To have me contact the family for you."


    "At such a time, how could I possibly betray you, saying you didn''t tell me?"


    "I would have to steel myself to take on everything."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, even the stony-hearted Qiu Tu was touched for a moment.


    He looked up at Tang Feifei, "So... "


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, "So, when I made the call, I had already arranged everything for you."


    "I asked my uncle to make arrangements within the Investigation Bureau. To get the ''Fengtian Faction'' direct lineage within the General Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department to secure your position for you."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu took a deep breath. And then he embraced Tang Feifei!


    With a strong thrust, before Tang Feifei could react, he entered Tang Feifei''s body!


    The complexity of the situation made Qiu Tu unwilling to explain further; he only knew that with such deep affection from a beautiful woman, it would be unseemly of him not to make a concerted effort. Experience exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    They say great kindness should not be spoken of in thanks. One can only commit oneself in this life or serve as a beast of burden in the next as repayment.


    Qiu Tu had no other skills; he could only combine these two. Using himself as a beast of burden, to return Tang Feifei''s kindness with "devotion"!


    In history, not many who went back and forth seven times managed to complete their mission, like Zhao Yun, like Wen Yang, and tonight there was one more:... Qiu Tu!


    ...


    A night without words.


    The next morning.


    As dawn broke, the always punctual Tang Feifei got up from next to Qiu Tu.


    She propped herself up, looking at Qiu Tu with a cold gaze, her eyes surprisingly holding a hint of guilt?


    Throwing on a robe, Tang Feifei left the bedroom and went into the dressing room to change into a practice outfit.


    Then, as she exercised in the villa''s courtyard in the early morning, she also reflected on her time with Qiu Tu the previous night.


    In fact... she had lied to Qiu Tu last night.


    Or to put it another way, although what she said was true, her intentions were not pure.


    She didn''t lie to the family because she liked Qiu Tu or to help him secure the position of Director of the Political Department.


    Although she did have some good feelings for Qiu Tu now, they hadn''t reached the stage of liking.


    After learning about the ''Yinxin Sea Project'' from the elders of her family and guessing Qiu Tu''s scheming, she suddenly became frightened...


    Before, she always felt a sense of superiority over Qiu Tu.


    Even though Qiu Tu was the only man in her life, he was... merely a puppy love affair.


    Latterly, even as she gradually recognized Qiu Tu''s abilities and came to value him more and more.


    But... her attitude hadn''t changed much.


    However, upon finding out last night that Qiu Tu was involved in such an important plan and was about to become the Director of the Political Department, her sense of superiority shattered.


    That moment, she suddenly realized: without her noticing, this little man had grown to the point of almost standing shoulder to shoulder with her.


    The Director of the Political Department and the Deputy Director were now only a step apart, and the interaction between them had already become that of equals.


    Furthermore, with the power of the Political Department and involvement in the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' Qiu Tu''s status and influence in Xinjie City might even surpass hers as Deputy Director.

 Chapter 290 Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    When Tang Feifei realized this, she was stunned.


    She wasn''t jealous of Qiu Tu, but the panic that she might "lose" Qiu Tu was real.


    So, after much deliberation, she decided to "put on a play."


    She knew that Liu Xiongyuan had gone into seclusion and couldn''t help Qiu Tu, so she was certain that Qiu Tu would come to her for help.


    Therefore, she made a decisive move and planned everything for Qiu Tu in advance.


    Then, when Qiu Tu came to her, she would pretend to be angry and give him the cold shoulder.


    After making Qiu Tu anxious, she would then tell him everything she had done for him, making him feel guilty and moved.


    To be honest, Tang Feifei wasn''t good at scheming or manipulating people''s emotions.


    Last night was her first attempt, and it was against Qiu Tu, someone close to her, which made her feel incredibly guilty....


    This was also why she had been in and out seven times, yet still got up early for morning practice...


    ''Alas... I''m still not strong enough. If I were the Bureau Chief, the Deputy Speaker, or even the Speaker, I wouldn''t need to resort to such despicable methods...'' Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For a moment, Tang Feifei''s punches became heavier, and her wheat-colored face took on a more serious expression!


    However, what she didn''t know was....


    She had just left the bedroom when Qiu Tu woke up.


    Lying in bed, Qiu Tu first lit a candle for his waist, mourning its breakdown once again¡­.


    Immediately after, Qiu Tu crossed his hands behind his head and pondered over the words and actions of Tang Feifei from last night.


    Tang Feifei wasn''t someone who was skilled at lying.


    And Qiu Tu was exactly someone who was exceptionally good at lying.


    Besides, the two were almost at a zero distance at that time.


    So, when Tang Feifei said that everything she did was for him, Qiu Tu quickly sensed something amiss with Tang Feifei.


    His perceptive mind almost instantly guessed where Tang Feifei had lied.


    He theorized that Tang Feifei''s arrangements for him weren''t that simple-hearted.


    Either she realized that she was starting to lose control and wanted to bind him with emotions, making him feel guilty and moved;


    Or.... the Tang family was too covetous of the benefits from the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" and thus used Tang Feifei to "kidnap" him.


    ¡ª Tang Feifei had made promises to her family to share the benefits with them, so how could Qiu Tu let her break her promise to her family?


    But both scenarios were good news for Qiu Tu. The former signified that he was becoming more and more important to Tang Feifei.


    Professionally, Qiu Tu could leverage Tang Feifei''s resources even more; personally, Qiu Tu could unlock even more of Tang Feifei''s "positions."....


    The latter, on the other hand, indicated that the Tang family didn''t see assisting Qiu Tu as an opportunity to recruit him but rather as a "transaction."


    That way, Qiu Tu wouldn''t be forced to join the "Fengtian Faction" and could continue down the "Reformist Faction" path.


    Of course, if the "Reformist Faction" path came to an end, Qiu Tu wouldn''t mind jumping onto the "Fengtian Faction" path and freeload.


    Or... he could merge the two factions.


    Of course, for the still-weak Qiu Tu, all these were too far away.


    Right now, he just hoped that the "Fengtian Faction" could properly secure his position as Head of the Political Department¡­.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the newborn sun rising outside the window.


    He remembered Tang Feifei saying that this morning the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department would hold a small meeting to discuss the candidates for the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department.


    ''So... theoretically, there should be a result by this afternoon?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu was momentarily lost in thought....


    ...


    8:30 in the morning.


    The Eighth Sanctuary.


    This is the core of the entire Cataclysmic world''s northwest region, the sacred place in the hearts of the people from the northwest.


    If the Disaster Zone is considered a ruin and the Planning Area is perceived as the worn-out city waiting for revival, barely showing any traces of pre-Cataclysm civilization,


    Then... the Eight Great Shelters are the continuation of the sparks of civilization from before the Cataclysm.


    Skyscrapers rise abruptly like colossal beasts, piercing the sky.


    The shining glass facades under the sunlight flicker with mesmerizing and dazzling light and shadow, like ladders leading to heaven, reflecting the prosperity and bustle of the Sanctuary....


    The Eighth Sanctuary, the General Investigation Bureau is located in a skyscraper right at the center of the Sanctuary.


    At this time, at the 16th floor of the bureau building, in the Organizational Department''s Conference Room No. 1.


    The several attendees of the Organizational Department walked silently inside.


    Normally, as the department in charge of all subordinate Investigation Bureau positions, the atmosphere should be relaxed and comfortable.


    But for some reason, the faces of the attendees today seemed a bit more solemn. Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    There were not many people attending today, just the Head of the Cadre Division Yang Zaiwen, the three Deputy Heads of the Organizational Department Zhen Lie, Meng Sanzhai, Zhou Jingfu, and the Director of the Organizational Department Yue Zaitian.


    Yang Zaiwen, Zhen Lie, Meng Sanzhai, and Zhou Jingfu, the four of them entered the office first.


    They didn''t engage in the usual casual chat as they normally would but instead leafed through documents.


    After a short while of this, the Director of the Organizational Department Yue Zaitian arrived late, accompanied by his secretary.


    He was a man who seemed to be in his fifties with speckled white hair, a steady demeanor, and a serious aura.


    Upon entering the conference room, Yue Zaitian gave the four a slight nod and then spoke slowly, "I apologize... I just got off the phone with Councillor Huang and talked a bit longer, which is why I''m late."


    Yue Zaitian, a graduate of The Eighth Sanctuary Military Academy, is one of the high-ranking members of the Academic Faction.


    When the General Investigation Bureau was first established, he was appointed as Deputy Director of the Organizational Department as the representative of the "Military Academy."

 Chapter 290 Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    After working for eight years, he succeeded the position of the Organizational Department Director because the previous director got into trouble.


    During his years in the Organizational Department, he had always vigorously excavated and cultivated the elite of the "Academic Faction."


    It was because of him that the "Academic Faction" was able to grow so rapidly.


    While sitting at the head of the meeting room, Yue Zaitian also recalled several phone calls he had received last night and this morning.


    Some were from his former subordinate, Yan Chen, and some from his students.


    A few people called, and they didn''t talk about anything else but hinted to him: to be more vigilant in today''s discussion about the Xinjie City Head of the Political Department''s meeting and not let a person named Qiu Tu get the position.


    This made him curious about this "Qiu Tu."


    So he flipped through the materials for today''s meeting.


    To his surprise, he discovered that Qiu Tu wasn''t even among the candidates being discussed.


    Thus, on one hand, he found the fuss made by several people laughable, and on the other hand, his curiosity about Qiu Tu grew.


    Therefore, he pulled up Qiu Tu''s file and resume and studied it carefully.


    After reading it, his brow furrowed.


    Qiu Tu''s promotion had been too fast, achieving in just two months what took others years, or even more than a decade.


    Moreover, looking at his resume, Qiu Tu had no traces of any faction, nor had he received any training from the Sanctuary.


    Such a person, aside from having the identity of an initiator of the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Project" to add some points, had virtually no chance of being elected as the Head of the Xinjie City Political Department.


    Thus, he didn''t take the matter too seriously.


    Unexpectedly, just as he was about to start the meeting, he received a call from Huang Shangzong.


    Huang Shangzong''s call was brief, but... the content was the same, asking him to block Qiu Tu.


    But perhaps because of Huang Shangzong''s status standing there, being both one of the top leaders of the "Academic Faction" and the soon-to-be Speaker of Dongye State.


    Both publicly and privately, Yue Zaitian had to consider his opinion.


    So, Yue Zaitian raised the importance of this matter a few notches.


    He decided that today, no matter who was present, he could not let Qiu Tu be elected as the Director of the Political Department.


    Thinking this, he picked up his thermos, took a sip of water, and then looked around at the few people present and slowly began, "Alright, let''s begin today''s meeting."


    "The purpose of our meeting today mainly is to discuss the candidate selections for the high-level positions of the Investigation Bureaus in several Planning Areas."


    "The first one is for the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, the candidate for Head of the Political Department."


    Saying this, Yue Zaitian nodded towards Director Yang Zaiwen from the staff department, signaling him, "Director Yang, please introduce the situation of the candidates."


    Hearing Yue Zaitian''s words, Director Yang Zaiwen nodded and then said, "Regarding the selection of the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department, in principle, we respect their own internal recommendations."


    "But... they have reported two individuals this time, indicating both meet their requirements."


    "So, we still need to weigh in on their behalf."


    After saying this, Yang Zaiwen was ready to introduce the two candidates.


    However, just at that moment, suddenly, the door to the meeting room was knocked on "thump, thump, thump." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing the knocking, Yue Zaitian''s eyebrows knitted together. It was rare for anyone to disturb a meeting of the Organizational Department¡ªleaving a bad impression could affect one''s promotion.


    So, whoever dared to interrupt must be an important person or have an urgent matter.


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    Recalling the several phone calls from last night and this morning, Yue Zaitian had a bad hunch.


    -------

 Chapter 291 Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Could it really be that someone wants to help that... what''s his name... Qiu Tu?"


    Thinking of this, Yue Zaitian''s gaze also slightly darkened.


    He was the director of the Organizational Department at the General Investigation Bureau, with his presence, who could interfere with the work of the Organizational Department? Who could arrange the position of a mere head of a municipal Political Department?


    With this thought, Yue Zaitian suppressed the ominous premonition in his heart, then made a subtle gesture to his secretary at the end of the conference room.


    Seeing the signal, the secretary quickly got up and walked toward the door of the conference room.


    The atmosphere in the conference room calmed down as the knocking sound interrupted them.


    Everyone lowered their gaze, picked up their water cups, and began to drink in silence.


    Just then, the door to the meeting room opened, followed by the slightly surprised voice of Yue Zaitian''s secretary, "Councilor Ouyang?!"


    After the surprise, the secretary realized his lapse in composure. He quickly snapped his feet together, saluted, and greeted, "Councilor Ouyang!"


    "Cough cough... cough cough..." Upon hearing the secretary''s words, everyone in the conference room, who had been drinking water nonchalantly, choked.


    They covered their mouths while coughing and glanced at the doorway with their peripheral vision. Upon seeing that it really was Councilor Ouyang, they quickly stood up while still coughing.


    For a moment, the sound of chairs scraping, coughing, and greetings filled the air.


    Even Yue Zaitian, who had been sitting at the head of the table from the start, furrowed his brow upon seeing Councilor Ouyang.


    He stood up with a solemn expression, nodded toward the amiable figure at the door, and greeted, "Commissioner Ouyang... why have you come?"


    Councilor Ouyang, whose real name was Ouyang Heng, was a current member of the Supreme Council from the Eighth Sanctuary, a deputy commissioner of the General Investigation Bureau, mainly overseeing the Organizational Department, Training Department, and Logistics Department.


    Like Yue Zaitian, he was one of the high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau''s head office, but because he held a higher position and wielded greater influence, he always overshadowed Yue Zaitian.


    Some of Yue Zaitian''s self-interested arrangements would often be vetoed by him, so their relationship was not very good.


    The only thing that put Yue Zaitian slightly at ease was that Councilor Ouyang was a core member of the "Liberal Democratic Faction."


    Yue Zaitian remembered that when Yan Chen called him yesterday, he had analyzed the relationships Qiu Tu might have connected with, which included the "Iron-Blood Faction," "Fengtian Faction," and "Reformist Faction." Experience exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    There was no mention of the "Liberal Democratic Faction."


    ''So... is it just a coincidence?''


    With that thought, Yue Zaitian''s gaze fell upon Ouyang Heng.


    Perhaps sensing Yue Zaitian''s wariness, Ouyang Heng smiled and gestured for the few high-ranking members of the Organizational Department present to relax, then with his hands behind his back, he said, "No need for such formality, I just happened to be inspecting our Organizational Department. I heard you were having a meeting, so I came over to take a look."


    After speaking, he stepped toward the inside of the room, saying, "You continue, you continue."


    Seeing Ouyang Heng walking in so confidently, Yue Zaitian''s expression slightly brightened. He took a deep breath, waved to his secretary still standing by the door, and said, "What are you doing still standing there? Bring a chair for Commissioner Ouyang."


    Upon hearing Yue Zaitian''s words, his secretary quickly responded and hurried over, helping Ouyang Heng''s secretary to carry a chair for him.


    In formal organizations, seating is important, and Ouyang Heng, being the highest-ranking official present, should rightfully occupy the main seat.


    But since this was ultimately an Organizational Department meeting and he had come by temporarily, the two secretaries placed his chair next to Yue Zaitian, who then shifted his own seat half a step down. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, with Ouyang Heng''s arrival, the door of the conference room closed, and the meeting resumed.


    Yue Zaitian nodded again toward the director of the cadre office, Yang Zaiwen, who once again recited the first agenda item: the candidates for the head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department.


    While Yang Zaiwen read through the items, Yue Zaitian quietly observed Ouyang Heng''s expression. Seeing that Ouyang Heng was just listening patiently without any hint of wanting to speak, Yue Zaitian felt slightly relieved.


    Therefore, after Yang Zaiwen finished reading, Yue Zaitian scanned the few subordinates present and began to speak slowly, "Director Yang has already introduced the situation to everyone."


    "The position of head of Xinjie City Political Department is currently vacant, and Xinjie City has submitted two candidates, one is Cai Peiyuan, and the other is Zhang Jian."


    "Both are talents cultivated by the Investigation Bureau with good capabilities and qualifications."


    "Everyone is welcome to express their opinions and discuss who is more suitable."


    After Yue Zaitian spoke, the atmosphere in the conference room quieted down for a moment.


    After a pause, Deputy Director Zhen Lie was the first to speak up, "Director, I actually feel that neither of these candidates is very good."


    Hearing Zhen Lie''s words, Yue Zaitian''s heart skipped a beat, fearful that the worst possibility had occurred: someone was really helping Qiu Tu.


    Fortunately, it was just a deputy director, and he believed he could still suppress it.


    While Yue Zaitian thought this, Zhen Lie continued slowly, "What is the biggest issue in the Sanctuary these days?"


    "It is the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' of Xinjie City."


    "This plan concerns the future development of our Sanctuary for the next few years, a decade, or even several decades."


    "Among the plan''s initiators, the first three are from the military, which we will not discuss now, but the last one is from our Investigation Bureau, named Qiu Tu."

 Chapter 291 Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "I''ve looked into his records and files; although he comes from a civilian background in the Disaster Zone, his abilities are outstanding, and he''s bold and brave in action."


    "After becoming the Deputy Staff Head, in just two short months, he has cracked several major cases and has always cooperated with the military and the Security Department."


    "I guess it''s precisely for this reason that he was able to participate in this grand project."


    At this point, Zhen Lie paused. Seeing that everyone in the meeting room was listening intently, he continued, "So, I think we should promote him, make him the Head of the Political Department."


    "In doing so, not only can we ensure the smooth execution of the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' without any further complications, but we can also strengthen the connection between Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the military, making Xinjie City even more stable."


    Zhen Lie picked up his water glass and added one last sentence, "After all, nobody knows whether replacing him with Qiu Tu might cause our Investigation Bureau to miss out on opportunities in this ''Great Development Project''."


    Having said that, Zhen Lie took a sip of water, set down his glass, and said indifferently, "I''ve finished speaking."


    After Zhen Lie spoke, the room fell silent.


    Yue Zaitian, observing the room, shook his head slightly and said with a smile, "Deputy Minister Zhen has some valid points, but... he''s exaggerating a bit."


    "The ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' is, without a doubt, a priority of the Sanctuary for the next few years, and it''s true that Qiu Tu is one of the initiators."


    "But... who says that collaboration can only continue if he becomes the Head of the Political Department?"


    Yue Zaitian sharply pointed out the logical flaw in Zhen Lie''s argument, "After all... even while Qiu Tu was working with them, wasn''t he just the Deputy Head of the Political Department?"


    "Neither Xinjie City Military Department has raised any objections, nor has the Investigation Bureau shortlisted Qiu Tu. This indicates that Qiu Tu''s status has no impact on the project."


    Yue Zaitian paused before saying, "On the contrary, I believe it''s better for the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' if we do not have Qiu Tu assume the role of Head of the Political Department."


    He explained, "As the Political Department is one of the most crucial divisions of the Investigation Bureau, heading such a department requires a great deal of effort."


    "Right now, Qiu Tu should be focusing his efforts on assisting the military in executing the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'', not managing the Political Department."


    "So..." he concluded, "I think we should not add any more candidates, but instead discuss the ones reported by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    Yue Zaitian''s remarks were insightful. He not only pointed out the holes in Zhen Lie''s argument but also provided a seemingly noble reason to block Qiu Tu''s candidacy.


    Having said his piece and feeling that most of those present would agree with him, he naturally picked up his glass, ready to take a drink.


    But just then, another deputy minister, Meng Sanzhai, spoke up.


    "I don''t quite agree with Minister Yue''s words..." he said.


    Yue Zaitian''s drinking motion halted, his gaze sharpening.


    Meng Sanzhai glanced at Zhen Lie, who had just proposed nominating Qiu Tu, and said with a smile, "I tend to agree more with Deputy Minister Zhen''s words; I also nominate Qiu Tu..."


    Upon hearing this, Yue Zaitian slowly placed his water glass back down and stared intently at Meng Sanzhai. He opened his mouth, ready to say a few words.


    But at that moment, Ouyang Heng, who had been sitting in the place of honor, suddenly spoke up as well.


    He looked interestedly at the two deputy ministers and said with a smile, "It''s been a long time since I last attended a meeting of our Organizational Department, and I''ve indeed learned quite a bit this time."


    "When our Organizational Department selects talents, it should indeed be open-minded, letting everyone express their views, and nominate those they believe to be the right talent. Doing so allows more capable individuals to take on more important positions."


    Yue Zaitian''s complexion changed drastically when he heard Ouyang Heng''s words, and the meeting room became a whirlpool of undercurrents.


    Ouyang Heng''s words sounded like casual remarks, but everyone present was astute enough to understand his meaning.


    His statement "Selection of talents should not be rigid" and "nominate who you think is right" was nothing short of support for Zhen Lie and Zhou Jingfu, a backing for Qiu Tu! S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, at that moment, Yue Zaitian''s heart sank.


    His gaze swept over Ouyang Heng, Zhen Lie, and Meng Sanzhai in turn, and the ominous premonition he had been harboring began to intensify.


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    ''How is it that things seem to be getting out of control...?''


    ''Didn''t Yan Chen that bastard say that Qiu Tu only had the backing of the Fengtian Faction? Why are so many people speaking for him?''


    ''Just what is his identity?''


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Investigation Bureau, where the selection of the Head of the Political Department was fraught with tension and contention.


    A dramatic change was also taking place in Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    In Qiu Tu''s office...


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Song Qing, and Li Xian had all gathered around Qiu Tu''s desk, bombarding him with their chatter.


    With a face full of urgency, the portly Cao Dabiao said, "Brother Tu, this is clearly aimed at us."


    "I was doing fine in the Administrative Office. Suddenly they say I need to be repositioned, told me to take a couple of days off."


    "If it were just me alone, it wouldn''t matter. But Chen Feng, Eagle, Song Qing, they were all put on hold for similar reasons."


    "It''s obvious that someone is targeting us!"


    Cao Dabiao was of the emotional type, while Chen Feng was more composed.


    Chen Feng calmly took over the conversation, "Boss, I just found out. The several hundred people who were promoted with us haven''t received any orders or been affected at all."


    "Whereas all of our people have been removed or suspended from duty for various reasons."

 Chapter 291 Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    "This really seems like they''re beginning to take action against us."


    Hearing the conversation between the two people and looking at several subordinates who were a bit agitated, Qiu Tu lit a cigarette. He smoked, suppressing his own shock and quietly contemplated.


    It was only after a few subordinates had come to the office that he became aware of the news.


    Just ten or so minutes ago, all of his subordinates had been collectively suspended. The reasons given were roughly the same, stating there were other arrangements.


    But... if it were one or two with "other arrangements", it could be seen as a coincidence.


    Dozens of people, including Wang Dawei and Li Ke who later sided with Qiu Tu, were suspended, and that can only be described as too targeted.


    If it were the Investigation Bureau trying to correct the chaos and revert the promotions given during Yan Chen''s absence a few days ago?


    That wouldn''t be right either.


    Because, in the past few days, it wasn''t only Qiu Tu''s confidants who were promoted. The confidants of Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, and Shi Youxin, as well as The Five Elders'' people, were also promoted.


    Now, apart from Qiu Tu''s people, none of theirs were touched. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Damn it... It must be that bastard Yan Chen!''


    ''Divide and rule, pull in one batch, keep another, and strike another! Such a skillful tactic!''


    With just a bit of thought, Qiu Tu guessed Yan Chen''s intention.


    Frankly, the actions Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had taken some time ago were too much. Promoting hundreds of people collectively had occupied all the middle-level positions in the Investigation Bureau.


    But... precisely because it was excessive, too many people were involved. Even Yan Chen, the Bureau Chief, wouldn''t dare to demote everyone.


    That could lead to backlash from various powers and hostility from many in the middle and lower ranks.


    In this troublesome autumn, even Yan Chen wouldn''t want to invite such trouble.


    Yet, he couldn''t swallow his pride.


    So... he sorted through the several hundred people who had been promoted.


    Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin had always been close to him, and although they had defected recently, they could be brought back. Hence, being promoted remained. He simply accepted it.


    The Five Elders and Tang Feifei... one had tremendous influence in Xinjie City and the other had a profound background in the Sanctuary.


    Making hasty moves could easily cause trouble, so he left them alone for the time being, planning to deal with them after Dongye State was established.


    After considering all these, Qiu Tu was the easiest target to squeeze.


    So, he guessed that it only took a verbal command from Shi Youxin to suspend all of Qiu Tu''s people.


    This was probably just his first move: testing the waters.


    Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire


    He clearly wanted to see, after moving against Qiu Tu''s people, whether Qiu Tu had strong enough countermeasures; and how intense the reactions of Tang Feifei and The Five Elders would be.


    If everything was within his tolerance, he would continue to take action against Qiu Tu.


    For example, by adjusting Qiu Tu''s responsibility in the Political Department, stripping away the intelligence and interrogation departments, in this way probing Qiu Tu''s bottom line.


    If the cards Qiu Tu played still couldn''t threaten him, then he would further shrink Qiu Tu''s "living space."


    For instance, he could send Qiu Tu to the Clean Government Office to be a Deputy Division Chief without changing Qiu Tu''s rank.


    Plainly put, Yan Chen had now completely identified Qiu Tu as an enemy and started making his move....


    After thinking this through, Qiu Tu started to feel a bit frustrated.


    One rank higher in office can crush a person, and he was still three ranks below Yan Chen.


    Even his strongest tactics became mild when applied to Yan Chen.


    To pose a threat to Yan Chen was truly a difficult challenge.


    ''No... it can''t continue like this.''


    ''I must find a way to hit Yan Chen''s soft spot! To let him know, I can also hurt him, or take him down with me!''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s mind spun rapidly, considering ways to break the situation.....


    ------


    ```

 Chapter 292 Promotion! Head of the Political Department! (10k words plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    At that moment, seeing Qiu Tu lost in thought, the few confidants in the office stopped speaking. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They exchanged glances and then stood there in silence, waiting for Qiu Tu to make a decision.


    For this young superior of theirs, they had long held absolute faith and were willing to follow Qiu Tu''s progression.


    This was evident from their loyalty scores, all above 80 points.


    In the past few months, they had been through so much with Qiu Tu. Thus, they had full confidence in him.


    They believed that no matter the difficulty or trouble, it would be readily solved once it reached Qiu Tu.


    Even if the enemy might be Yan Chen, the top official of the Investigation Bureau...


    At that time,


    Qiu Tu, upon whom many hopes were pinned, had his mind racing at high speed.


    He was weighing the cards in his hand, trying to determine which one to play for the best effect....


    Although Qiu Tu''s power was still weak compared to Yan Chen, he had known from the start that they would confront each other. So, he had been diligently gathering evidence of Yan Chen''s crimes and leverage against him.


    However, most of the leverage was insignificant for someone of Yan Chen''s stature.


    If brought to light, it would only expose Qiu Tu without posing any threat.


    Therefore, after much consideration, Qiu Tu realized he only had two pieces of leverage that could possibly control Yan Chen.


    One was Secretary Bai.


    Back then, he had hinted to Secretary Bai, leading him to defect to the Evil God Larilo and become an Evil God Cultist.


    Over this past year, Secretary Bai had done many bad things for Evil God Larilo, covering up numerous loose ends.


    Although Yan Chen''s ultimate goal was to Devour the Evil God, he had not succeeded.


    Thus, some actions taken by him and Secretary Bai over the past year had crossed the line for the Sanctuary.


    If exposed, it would likely have a significant impact on Yan Chen.


    Besides Secretary Bai, the other piece of leverage Qiu Tu had against Yan Chen was the recording on the night of Jia Shu''s death.


    At the time, Qiu Tu had asked Yan Chen whether to save Jia Shu. It was Yan Chen who, after weighing the pros and cons, decided to use Jia Shu''s death to pit Liu Xiongyuan against Huang Shangzong.


    This recording could make it clear to the entire Investigation Bureau what kind of person Yan Chen was, and could also turn Huang Shangzong against Yan Chen.


    Displaying either piece of leverage to Yan Chen could make him hesitate, preventing him from pushing too aggressively.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt a bit of hesitation: maybe he should use these two pieces of leverage to threaten Yan Chen?


    ''Might that be insufficiently persuasive and instead expose me?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep drag on his cigarette, his gaze growing somber.


    At first glance, these two pieces of leverage seemed to have some effect. Explore stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    But upon closer consideration, they seemed unlikely to be decisive.


    The "Secretary Bai" leverage, although Qiu Tu had already figured everything out, had two issues: one, Yan Chen had not directly ordered Secretary Bai to do those things; and two, Secretary Bai would not testify for Qiu Tu.


    Thus, even if the Sanctuary were to investigate, it seemed like they would not be able to uncover anything.


    The "recording of Jia Shu''s death" leverage could indeed drive a wedge between Huang Shangzong and Yan Chen.


    But both of them were, by now, significant figures who''d long placed interests above personal feelings.


    Would they really fall out over a person who had died?


    Even if they did fall out, don''t forget that they belonged to the same faction. The bigwigs in their faction, once they learned of this, would 100% step in to mediate.


    Thus, neither incident seemed capable of posing a significant threat to Yan Chen.


    Instead, it risked laying bare Qiu Tu''s actual situation to Yan Chen....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu closed his eyes, continuing to ponder.


    Besides these two pieces of leverage, did he really have nothing else on Yan Chen?


    Maybe... he should seek out Tang Feifei and The Five Elders?


    Apply collective pressure directly to Yan Chen?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed deeply.


    ''Something''s off! Something''s off!''


    ''There''s something strange....''


    While he felt the oddity inside, he couldn''t put his finger on what exactly it was.


    So he sat there with closed eyes, thinking in silence for several minutes.


    Several minutes passed, until the cigarette butt was nearly burning his fingers, before Qiu Tu suddenly opened his eyes with a shocked expression!


    ''Bloody hell! Could all of this be a trap?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered as he meticulously recalled Yan Chen''s every move over the past year, and soon he started to pick up on the clues and signs....


    Just as Qiu Tu had previously analyzed, Yan Chen was in fact a very savvy political operator.


    Though he was adept at conspiracy and deceit, his biggest habit was "using minimal force to move a heavy object."


    Yan Chen was particularly skilled at using a simple trick to create a snowball effect, ultimately leading to massive consequences.


    His subjugation of the Qin Family; blackmailing Vice President Tian; paving the way for Deputy Division Chief Qiu Tu; and the almost successful Devour plan for the Evil God....


    All used this tactic.


    Therefore, today''s flamboyant suspension, forcing Qiu Tu into desperation, was simply not his style!


    Although... it was possible that Yan Chen, having been outmaneuvered severely by Qiu Tu, had reacted against his usual habits and struck back with force; Qiu Tu preferred to believe¡ªit was a trap within a trap.


    Yan Chen was still using the tactic of "using minimal force to move a heavy object" against him.


    It was just that this "minimal force" was so substantial that it had initially escaped Qiu Tu''s notice.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu felt everything falling into place.


    He snuffed out the cigarette butt in the ashtray that Song Qing had brought over, and a flicker of realization crossed the depths of his eyes.

 Chapter 1 - 1 Crisis Intuition

    The white curtains, yellowed with age, the walls spotted with mold, a cramped and dim room.


    The scent of a woman''s body mixed with the blooming fragrance of heather.


    "Tick-tock, tick-tock..."


    Accompanied by the dripping sound of an old faucet in the toilet, Qiu Tu slowly woke up.


    He opened his weary eyes, shook his dizzy, aching head, and surveyed the room he was in.


    In the tiny seven-square-meter room filled with clutter, there was an old wooden bed.


    A slender woman with skin white as snow slept soundly on the bed, completely naked.


    Looking at the woman, Qiu Tu''s mind automatically conjured her identity.


    The mistress of Director Yan Chen of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    And himself...


    Qiu Tu shook his aching head again...


    A Second-Class Investigator at Xinjie City Investigation Bureau... a confidant of Director Yan Chen.


    His primary duty was...


    To ensure the safety of this mistress!


    Qiu Tu suddenly sat up, looking at his own body, which was also bare, his face full of shock.


    No, wait a minute.


    Wasn''t he at an explosion at the company? How did he become an investigator?


    Did he... travel through time?


    ...


    Half an hour later.


    The toilet.


    Standing in front of a dirty sink, Qiu Tu, his face wet, looked at his own reflection in the broken mirror and roughly figured out everything before him.


    He had indeed traveled through time.


    Travelled to this somewhat chaotic, bloody world.


    An unexpected cataclysm had devastated most nations, caused mutations in species, abandoned cities, scarcity of food, and obliteration of civilization, replaced by endless chaos, the law of the jungle, and survival of the fittest...


    After the cataclysm, the world was in chaos for decades before civilization began to regrow anew.


    With the joint efforts of several powerful figures, humanity slowly established the Eight Great Shelters, gradually restoring the order of the pre-disaster world, giving humanity new hope.


    Unfortunately...


    The Xinjie City where Qiu Tu was located was not part of the Eight Great Shelters, but a Planning Area.


    That is, the areas situated between the Sanctuaries and the Disaster Zone, prepared for the next steps in reconstruction.


    There was no comprehensive law here, no strict rules to adhere to, only the most basic law of the wild.


    Although middle and high-level management personnel from the various shelters were arranged to manage these areas, they were only tasked with preventing these areas from falling into major turmoil; as for other aspects, they didn''t interfere at all.


    This resulted in every high-level manager being a Local Tyrant with great power over their respective Planning Area, decreeing life or death at will...


    And Qiu Tu''s immediate superior, Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen of Xinjie City, was one of the high-level managers sent by the shelter, one of the Three Giants in Xinjie City, holding all the power of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he was Yan Chen''s lackey, a mid-level investigator in Xinjie City, specially tasked with doing Yan''s dirty work.


    Such as killing, collecting taxes, and... ensuring the safety of mistresses.


    Well... that protection went all the way to the bed...


    Wiping his face, Qiu Tu recalled the last memories of his predecessor in his mind.


    In the memory, after an intense encounter with Yan Chen''s mistress, the predecessor fell asleep; and while sleeping, he suddenly felt his heart contract sharply, in pain.


    The past life was jolted awake, straining to open his eyes, only to be met with ringing ears and vertigo that came hand in hand. His strength dwindled further and further until his consciousness vanished entirely. That was when Qiu Tu took over his identity.


    ''Was it a sudden illness?''


    Reflecting on the previous life''s memory of death, Qiu Tu was a bit puzzled.


    But he didn''t delve deeper into it, after all, sleeping with the Investigation Bureau Chief''s woman, dying sooner or later didn''t seem to make much of a difference.


    In an era where the death toll was uncertain each day, having offended such a significant figure, he was lucky to have been sacked and sank into the sewer the very next day.


    If the bigshot was vengeful or psychologically twisted, it was expected for Qiu Tu to be maimed into a specter and haunted for life without death.


    ''It''s a bit thrilling...''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu lifted his head to face the very cause of all troubles¡ªthe handsome face in the mirror. A radiant smile suddenly spread across his face,


    ''But... it''s already much better than my previous life.''


    In his past life, Qiu Tu was deceived by friends and sold off to Northern Myanmar, beaten and insulted every day, too scared to close his eyes at night for fear of being buried alive or having his organs harvested the next day.


    So in that environment, he "turned to the dark side" and voluntarily "joined" a tele-scamming group, becoming a specter himself.


    Swindling, slashing, killing. He climbed up the ranks step by step, and then... sent each and every person who had deceived and insulted him in the past to hell.


    Afterwards, he continued to climb, reaching the management level of the group, and then... At the group''s celebratory banquet, he wrapped himself in explosives and blew up the entire syndicate, including the mastermind behind it all, to kingdom come.


    Recalling his last years in his previous life, from the moment he was conned into going to Northern Myanmar, he had only death on his path. Compliance meant death, resistance meant death, scheming was death, and lonely revenge was also death.


    Now, though dangerous, there was at least a chance at life!


    After all, according to the memory of his former self, Bureau Chief Yan Chen did trust his predecessor quite a bit.


    As long as Qiu Tu didn''t give himself away moving forward, he shouldn''t be in danger... right?


    And at this moment, as Qiu Tu was lost in thought. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, "buzz buzz..." the sound of the Communicator vibrating stirred the air in the cramped toilet.


    Hearing the vibration, Qiu Tu glanced at the old Communicator with physical buttons atop the washbasin.


    The Communicator''s low-resolution yellow-green screen displayed three characters: Director Yan.


    Even though he had already braced himself for anything, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat still surged at the sight of that name.


    He took a deep breath, pressed down the astonishment in his heart, and silently reminded himself to remain calm, the Bureau Chief knew nothing, and if he could just appear a bit more composed, there should be no problem.


    However, just as he thought this, suddenly, his vision flashed.


    The next second, row after row of prompts also appeared in his sight.


    ''Crisis Intuition activated! Generating Crisis Report!''


    ''Your direct superior, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen, is communicating with you.''


    ''He is suspicious and brutal by nature.''


    ''Before contacting you, he has already communicated with other confidants and found out that you and his mistress Qin Shuman intentionally dismissed others, spending 4.5 hours alone outside without a third person''s company, and have not returned to this moment.''


    ''Qin Shuman''s maid has also secretly informed him that in the past two days, you and Qin Shuman have been flirting relentlessly.''


    ''He is now extremely angry and has started to doubt your loyalty.''


    ''However, the cunning and calculated he does not plan to startle the snake in the grass but instead intends to test you.''


    ''You have only two minutes.''


    ''If within two minutes, you fail to regain his trust, then by tomorrow, your and Qin Shuman''s bodies will be found in the sewers of Xinjie City. You know that with his power, you can''t escape.''


    ''Now, the 2-minute countdown begins.''


    As the prompts ended, a sandglass-shaped countdown icon slowly appeared in the upper left corner of his vision....


    Qiu Tu: ???

 Chapter 2 - 2 Personality Weaknesses

    Looking at the countdown and text that suddenly appeared before him, Qiu Tu was full of question marks.


    ''Is this... the Golden Finger?'' he wondered.


    A Golden Finger that can hint at risks?


    After a moment of contemplation, Qiu Tu felt it was a bit weak, but still acceptable.


    After all, had it not been for the hint from his "Crisis Intuition," he would not have known that Yan Chen had gleaned some information from the maid and begun to suspect his involvement with Qin Shuman, preparing to test him.


    Had he picked up the communicator and dared to tell one lie to cover up the matter, the next day he would have died in the filthy sewage ditch.


    In such a scenario, the Golden Finger had indeed saved his life.


    ''Anyway, I can''t change the Golden Finger, so it''s pointless to think too much about it. I should focus on figuring out how to deal with the current situation...'' he reasoned.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu began to reflect on how to deal with the situation, observing the pile of hints before him...


    The communicator vibrated in the palm of his hand, buzzing, and the bright red countdown pulsed like a heartbeat...


    [1:56]


    [1:55]


    ...


    [1:52]


    [1:51]


    ...


    [1:48]


    [1:47]


    As time ticked away, second by second, it wasn''t until it reached [1:45] that Qiu Tu''s gaze slowly became resolute and he pressed the receive button without hesitation!


    The next moment, his expression seamlessly switched as he reverently said into the communicator, "Bureau Chief, were you looking for me?"


    "I had something to deal with, which is why I was late to answer the communicator," he explained.


    Perhaps it was an influence from his previous life, but Qiu Tu spoke those ingratiating words with such fluidity that he surprised even himself.


    [1:42]


    [1:41]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, no different from any other day, Yan Chen on the other end of the communicator did not become suspicious. He gave a profound "hmm" and then said, "Qiu Tu, I have a task for you to handle."


    "Xiafang Street Public Security Bureau has arrested a Pharmacist selling illegal potions. Go there and bring that person back to the Bureau; I have use for him."


    [1:27]


    [1:26]


    Glimpsing the ever-decreasing numbers of the countdown, Qiu Tu quickly replied, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    However, after his response, he pretended to be in a difficult position and said, "But, Bureau Chief, I..."


    Yan Chen spoke sternly, "What''s the matter? Is there a problem?"


    He was like a volcano about to erupt¡ªthe heavy pressure so palpable it came through the communicator, clearly felt by Qiu Tu.


    [1:18]


    But Qiu Tu wasn''t swayed by Yan Chen. He continued to keep his tone steady and spoke softly, "Bureau Chief, actually I have some other matters to take care of as well."


    Then, intentionally hesitating for two seconds, he finally spoke as if he had made a decision, "Bureau Chief, in fact, there was something I''ve been wanting to report to you for the past few days, but I didn''t dare to mention it without evidence."


    "There''s something off about Qin Shuman. I suspect she''s a spy sent by the Municipal Committee to monitor you!"


    As he spoke these words, the atmosphere suddenly became still, and the countdown seemed to freeze as well, halting at [1:03].


    After a full five seconds of stillness, the countdown resumed ticking.


    On the other side of the communicator, Yan Chen asked in a deep voice, "What do you mean?"


    [1:00]


    With only one minute left, the countdown turned a glaring, blood-red and began to flash frenetically.


    However, Qiu Tu was not rushed. He calmly explained, "Bureau Chief, I''ve been under your orders to ensure Miss Shuman''s safety. But I''ve noticed some things about her that don''t seem quite right."


    "For example, I remember you saying she had just come from the Disaster Zone to Xinjie City, but she seems very familiar with Xinjie City."


    "For example, she''s not a resident of the Sanctuary like us, yet her skin is so smooth, fair, without a single scar or callus."


    "For example, every time I appear near her, she tries to talk to me, initiating conversations about you, probing for information."


    "All these signs suggest that she is probably not as simple as she appears."


    "And don''t you find it a bit too coincidental?"


    "Xinjie City is so vast and chaotic, yet why would such a beautiful person be so conveniently discovered by you?"


    "Are all the other men blind? Wouldn''t they want her for themselves?"


    "Is that really reasonable?"


    Speaking of which, Qiu Tu paused before saying, "So, these past few days I''ve been trying to curry favor with her, subtly expressing my admiration to gain her trust."


    "Perhaps my approach really did earn her trust. Today she told me she felt like a canary trapped in a cage and wanted to go out alone. So, in collaboration with her, we managed to distract the maids and other security staff, and I went out alone with her."


    "Throughout these hours, I''ve been at her side, covertly observing her every move, trying to figure out what she really wanted to do."


    [0:15]


    At this time, the countdown timer glowing with red light seemed to have completely stopped.


    After a two-second silence on the other side of the communicator, Yan Chen asked, "So what did you find out?"


    Qiu Tu, "Nothing at all."


    As if seeing Yan Chen''s face darken suddenly through the communicator, Qiu Tu paused before adding another sentence, "But... that''s the biggest problem!"


    "She went to the trouble of shaking off everyone just for a simple stroll?"


    "Bureau Chief... Does that sound reasonable?"


    Yan Chen remained silent.


    Two seconds later, instead of answering Qiu Tu''s question, he asked, "Then why do you say she was sent by the Municipal Committee to monitor me?"


    Qiu Tu, "Speculation."


    "After all, the entire Xinjie City knows that the Municipal Committee is at odds with our Investigation Bureau, and Commissioner Jiang even more so with you..."


    Yan Chen let out a cold snort.


    Seeing he had pushed far enough, Qiu Tu did not continue to discuss the private affairs of the higher-ups. Instead, he switched gears and summed up, "That''s why I suspected the Municipal Committee first when considering who to doubt."


    "But, I''m still in the process of verification, with no evidence so far."


    Yan Chen''s tone noticeably softened. After a moment of thought, he then asked, "So where are you right now?"


    Qiu Tu, "At my place."


    "It was Miss Shuman who requested it."


    "She''s currently playing video games there, and I took the excuse of hiding in the bathroom to answer your call."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen "Hmm" responded.


    He did not express his attitude to Qiu Tu but reverted to his initial topic, "I will have others handle Xiafang Street''s matter for now. Continue to accompany Miss Shuman."


    "Yes! Bureau Chief!" Qiu Tu bowed slightly, respectful as if Yan Chen could see him, "I will certainly help you ascertain Miss Shuman''s identity and not let down your trust."


    Yan Chen did not respond and cut off the communication.


    Listening to the "beep...beep..." sound on the other end, Qiu Tu, who knew he had narrowly escaped for now, slowly exhaled. He straightened up slowly, his smile gradually fading to a blank expression.


    In those years with the Northern Myanmar fraud group, he learned a lot, including reading people, discerning their psychology, and finding weaknesses in their personalities.


    The weak point in Yan Chen''s character was obvious: he was suspicious.


    Such people, once they start doubting, won''t easily stop.


    So, when Qiu Tu realized he was "exposed," he knew the more he explained, the more he would arouse Yan Chen''s doubts.


    For a powerful figure like Yan Chen, confidants and mistresses were nothing more than dogs begging at his feet for scraps.


    In these chaotic times, two lower-class individuals who hadn''t even secured sanctuary status could easily be snuffed out if he felt the slightest suspicion or displeasure.


    Therefore, for Qiu Tu to stay alive, he had to introduce a formidable "Third Party Force" that could make Yan Chen wary.


    Only then would Yan Chen control his emotions and not act recklessly, giving Qiu Tu time to defuse the crisis.


    And this formidable "Third Party Force" that could make Yan Chen wary was¡ª the Municipal Committee. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Municipal Committee was the highest governing body of Xinjie City, holding all the rights of legislation, personnel appointments, finances, and more.


    In theory, the Investigation Bureau should also obey the Municipal Committee.


    But for checks and balances, when the Sanctuary sent high-level managers, the Municipal Committee, Investigation Bureau, and the military all had the right to communicate directly with the Sanctuary.


    So, in the Planning Area, the three parties were relatively independent; the Municipal Committee couldn''t command the other forces outright, but instead had to use benefits, situations, righteousness, and various other means to make them comply.


    This led to a relationship that was both full of conflict and yet necessarily collaborative between the three parties, extremely delicate and precarious.


    In such a situation, facing a person suspected of being planted by the Municipal Committee, the wily Yan Chen would most likely act cautiously. Before clarifying Qin Shuman''s identity and understanding the Municipal Committee''s intentions, he would not rashly harm them, thus upsetting the delicate balance of Xinjie City.


    Such a lie also made Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman appear as potential adversaries in Yan Chen''s eyes, reducing the suspicion that the two might be in cahoots.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu''s "forthrightness" in voluntarily disclosing their whereabouts would likely make the information seem more credible to Yan Chen.


    The plan was bold and fraught with future troubles, but it was the best Qiu Tu could come up with in a matter of seconds.


    After recalling the plan he had devised, Qiu Tu looked deeply at the stalled countdown timer in the upper left corner, his mind continuing to patch up any weaknesses in his plan,


    ''Although I acted quite well and replaced the original question with a new doubt, thereby steering Yan Chen''s suspicions,''


    ''But... given Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, would the seed of doubt really be dispelled that easily?''


    ''Can things really be this simple?''


    With this thought, the hourglass of the countdown timer in the upper left corner of his vision began to change slowly...

 Chapter 3 - 3 Supernatural Power?

    And with the shift of the hourglass, several new prompts did indeed pop up in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Congratulations on successfully overcoming the recent crisis, you have gained Yan Chen''s initial trust," it read.


    "However, his naturally suspicious nature was not completely convinced by the lies you fabricated¡ªafter all, there were some holes in your story that couldn''t withstand scrutiny."


    "Therefore, he plans to go to Qin Shuman''s residence tonight to question you in person."


    "You will have five hours to prepare."


    "Try to spin all your lies thoroughly, and prepare suitable evidence to vie for a chance at survival."


    "You wouldn''t want to know the consequences of failure."


    As all the prompts ended, the original countdown hourglass slowly became a small, shaking treasure chest, and another countdown hourglass emerged, jumping next to the chest, side by side with it.


    [4:59:50]


    Staring at the new countdown, Qiu Tu was silent for a few seconds, then slowly smiled.


    He had known that with Yan Chen''s suspicion, it wouldn''t be so easy to fool him.


    This was always a high-stakes game of walking on a tightrope, it wasn''t so simple to just get through it.


    But five hours, huh... that was a lot better than the two minutes he had earlier, at least it gave him time to do something else. Like...


    ...Thoroughly examining his Golden Finger.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell on the treasure chest icon that had just appeared, trying to click on it.


    The next second, the chest opened and disappeared, replaced by a piece of sea-blue, semi-transparent stone.


    At the same time, two small prompts refreshed in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Survived the crisis, obtained treasure chest reward: Aurora Stone."


    "Aurora Stone: One of the important Cataclysm Materials. Just gather the other materials and you can make a variety of Cataclysm Potions, Cataclysm Props. For example: ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Skull Talisman,'' ''Old Seal,'' ''Shining Prescriptive Octahedron,'' etc..."


    Staring at the two prompts that popped up before him, Qiu Tu fell silent for a few seconds, then slowly furrowed his brows.


    Cataclysm Materials?


    Cataclysmic Potion? Skull Talisman? Shining Prescriptive Octahedron?


    This world was not an ordinary world after all, but one where Supernatural Power exists? This was obviously somewhat unexpected for Qiu Tu.


    With this thought, he quickly went through his memories again¡ªbut he couldn''t find any information related to Supernatural Powers.


    Neither the official news from the Sanctuary nor the rumors circulating in the Planning Area had ever mentioned the existence of Supernatural Powers in this world.


    In this world, the armed forces still relied mainly on firearms, with agriculture and industry as the core industries.


    Even the major Sanctuaries, it was said, were built on the site of military factories, large farms, or industrial bases abandoned before the Cataclysm.


    "What''s going on here? Could it be... that the Supernatural Powers of this world are not widely known?"


    "Then... do the major Sanctuaries know about this?"


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu quickly sorted through his memories again.


    This time, he quickly noticed some clues.


    The first clue came from something a colleague who had been transferred to the City Hall let slip.


    He said that while the City Hall was accepting refugees from the Disaster Zone for free, they always had an odd request for the refugees: they were asked to mark out dense areas of animals and plants they encountered along the way from the Disaster Zone.


    The second clue came from a black market merchant while Qiu Tu was scrounging around the market.


    The merchant whispered to him that The military, one of the three major forces in Xinjie City, had been secretly collecting certain materials in the nearby Disaster Zone, but no one knew what exactly they were collecting.


    The third clue was something Yan Chen let slip when he''d had a little too much to drink.


    Once, seemingly out of the blue, Yan Chen received an unexpected commendation from above and held a small celebration banquet.


    At the banquet, after drinking a bit too much, he slapped the shoulders of those next to him and said: The Cataclysm may have destroyed human civilization, but it also presented humanity with new opportunities.


    When someone asked what he meant, Yan Chen just smiled without answering, and the next day, he vehemently denied ever saying such a thing.


    Because these three things were very scattered and all the mid-to-high-level managers coming down from the Sanctuary were so secretive, Qiu Tu didn''t think much of them before.


    But now, as he connected all the dots, Qiu Tu felt something was off.


    ''Could it be... that this world, because of the great Cataclysm, really gave birth to Supernatural Powers? And that all the Sanctuaries already possess these powers?''


    ''So, the reason they established various Planning Areas might be to collect all sorts of Cataclysm Materials and precious resources, right?''


    The more he analyzed, the more Qiu Tu felt that his speculation might be correct.


    Moreover, through this clue, he thought of even more possibilities.


    If the Sanctuary really had a way to make humans evolve and gain Supernatural Powers... then the Municipal Committee''s Commissioner Jiang, the big shot from the military, and Yan Chen... Could they all possess Supernatural Powers?


    After all, they were the key figures entrusted with important missions, coming to the Planning Area, a dangerous region, to execute official duties...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt even more pressure.


    After all, no one knew what kind of Supernatural Powers existed in this world, what direction they took, or what kind of powerful, bizarre, or magical effects they had.


    And this could make his situation even more dangerous...


    After pondering in silence for a while, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and exhaled the heavy pressure.


    ''Forget it, it''s useless to think too much, better to continue researching the Golden Finger.''


    Thinking this, he stopped dwelling on those troubles and once again turned his gaze to the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    He had casually clicked on the Treasure Chest earlier, which had triggered a reward, giving Qiu Tu encouragement.


    So he stretched out his hand to continue randomly clicking on the prompts and icons on the upper left corner.


    After about five or six clicks, a prompt actually popped up in front of him.


    ''Golden Finger Name'': Crisis Intuition (unfixed, refreshable)


    ''Golden Finger Type'': Trigger type


    ''Golden Finger Effect'': When facing a major crisis, Crisis Intuition will be triggered, giving a corresponding Crisis Warning. If the crisis is successfully overcome, a reward corresponding to the crisis can be obtained.


    ''Current Number of Refreshes'': 0


    Qiu Tu: ??!


    ''This is truly a pleasant surprise everywhere!''


    Qiu Tu swore that his random clicking was really just to not miss any possibility, but he didn''t hold much hope in his heart.


    As a result... he really did click on something incredible.


    What was this?


    The "true form" of his own Golden Finger? S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After analyzing the panel that appeared in front of him for a while, Qiu Tu broadly understood what it was.


    If he wasn''t wrong, he was not like the ordinary transmigrators.


    Most transmigrators only had one fixed Golden Finger, and the Golden Fingers they got were random. It might be useful, or it might not.


    But his... Golden Finger could be both fixed and "refreshed"!


    Hold on to a Golden Finger you like, get rid of one you don''t¡ªthis was simply the most powerful Golden Finger!


    The only pity was... the condition for refreshing was unknown.


    ''Looks like I need to continue my research.''


    Thinking like this, Qiu Tu once again started the "click click click" endeavor.


    But perhaps his luck had indeed run out, and this time, no matter how much he clicked, there was no response in front of him.


    ''It must be the wrong conditions for triggering it... right?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu stopped researching the Golden Finger.


    Having been given a second chance at life, his current mindset was very good: After all, he had already been a dead man, so transmigrating to this new world and living an extra second meant he was already making a profit!


    So... use the Golden Finger if you have it, and if not, forge your own path!


    Without discontent or giving oneself pressure, fully enjoy this brand new life!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu smiled as he straightened his clothes, then opened the door and left the bathroom, ready to meet the "ally" who was still sleeping on his bed...


    [4:52:03]....

 Chapter 4 - 4 Xiao Bai Hua

    When he entered the bedroom, Qin Shuman was still sleep, her seductive figure sprawled luxuriously across the bed.


    She lay on her side, her beautiful hair randomly strewn by the pillow like black velvet.


    The soft, thin quilt wrapped around her jade-like body, faintly revealing the graceful lines of her back and a waist that one could seemingly grasp with a hand. With each breath, her lovely body contoured a bewitching and enchanting silhouette, igniting endless fantasies.


    She was an incredibly beautiful woman, the likes of which Qiu Tu had seldom seen even in his past life, and she exuded an even stranger sense of being out of place in this world.


    Standing by the bed, he silently admired this creature for a while, looking at the origin of all these troubles, Qiu Tu tugged at his collar and, without any hesitation, pounced....


    Startled by Qiu Tu''s sudden weight, Qin Shuman, who was in deep sleep, was taken aback. While struggling, she whispered softly, "Wait, wait a moment."


    "Be good, I can''t wait..."


    .....


    .....


    Twenty minutes later, Qiu Tu leaned against the headboard, holding the sultry Qin Shuman and contentedly lit a cigarette: The mistress of a big shot is indeed different, very smooth!


    This was not a loss.


    Even if someday he stumbled while walking the tightrope and was killed by Yan Chen, at least he had had the experience, so he wouldn''t be considered a fall guy.


    At that moment, perhaps sensing a change in Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman leaned on his shoulder and asked curiously, tilting her head, "You, you seem a little different."


    "Really?" Qiu Tu held her shoulder, took one final drag of his cigarette, crushed the butt on the table and said indifferently, "Maybe it''s because I''ve died once."


    "What? What?" Qin Shuman was a little stunned and turned her head in surprise to look at him upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words.


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted Qin Shuman''s pale, smooth back, "Just kidding."


    With a sigh of relief, Qin Shuman rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, "You scared me to death."


    Qiu Tu said, "What I mean is, we might be about to die."


    "Yan Chen already knows about us."


    Qin Shuman: ??


    Perhaps because the news was too shocking, Qin Shuman, with a clutch of the thin quilt to her chest, sat up abruptly, looking at Qiu Tu in utter amazement.


    Qiu Tu appeared unconcerned, but the corners of his eyes were surreptitiously observing Qin Shuman, trying to determine whether her surprise was genuine or feigned.


    But whether because her acting was too good or some other reason, after observing her closely for a full two seconds, he couldn''t detect any flaw in Qin Shuman''s reaction.


    So he patted Qin Shuman''s slender arm, then, feigning confusion, he asked, "Didn''t you think we might get caught when you came out with me?"


    Qin Shuman was clearly bewildered, her face a picture of cluelessness, "No."


    "You just said you wanted to take me out to have fun."


    "I... I never thought that we would..."


    As she spoke, she looked down at their naked bodies and began to panic, hurriedly picking up their clothes to put them on.


    Qiu Tu raised his hand to stop her, "If I were you, I''d take a shower first to clean up the traces."


    "Otherwise, you might get stains on your clothes."


    Qin Shuman halted in her actions.


    Qiu Tu''s hand gently glided over her smooth back, "But don''t wet your hair, and don''t use any toilet articles so as not to leave a scent."


    "Try to make yourself as clean as possible."


    "Yan Chen has a very sensitive nose."


    Qin Shuman: .....


    After a brief two-second pause, Qin Shuman glared fiercely at Qiu Tu and then, clutching her clothes, jumped out of bed and ran "pitter-patter" towards the bathroom.


    Watching Qin Shuman''s bewitching back, Qiu Tu touched his chin with a puzzled expression on his face.


    Something was off... still off...


    Perhaps owing to his time in the past life, swindling day in and day out in a fraud syndicate, since crossing into this world, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but doubt everything.


    He felt that Qin Shuman''s behavior seemed too naive and lacking in cunning.


    If he were to make a comparison, the Planning Area of this world was like the Mexico and Laos from his previous life....


    Chaos, bloody, lawless.


    How could such a place give rise to someone as innocuous and clueless¡ªyet beautiful¡ªas a white lotus?


    Could this be too much of a fantasy?


    His predecessor, having grown up in the Planning Area, had not seen a beautiful girl and was blinded by "love (lust)" failing to notice anything odd. But he, from his previous life, had seen too many beautiful ladies.


    The shrewd, the foolish, the innocent¡ªall would be forced into degeneration, into numbness, in that environment... So Qiu Tu really did not believe that Qin Shuman could be such a pure flower. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''A shrewd woman who is good at disguising herself?''


    Qiu Tu tried to come to a verdict about Qin Shuman. But then, he stumbled upon a new question...


    Why would such a clever woman take such a big risk to have an affair with him?


    Himself, or rather, his predecessor, what did he have that was worth her making such a large investment?


    If Qiu Tu had just now, in order to save their lives, fabricated some half-true, half-false intelligence about Qin Shuman to deceive Yan Chen. Then now, he really started to doubt Qin Shuman....


    [4:30:13]


    ...


    Ten minutes later, Qin Shuman, neatly dressed, walked out of the bathroom.


    As she stepped out of the door, she took a deep breath, raised her head, and was about to call Qiu Tu out for a chat.


    Just then, a pistol was slowly pressed against her temple.


    The metal barrel felt ice-cold.


    In that moment, Qin Shuman completely stiffened, not daring to move an inch.


    They were at a standoff for a good ten seconds; seeing that the other party did not proceed with further action, Qin Shuman stiffly turned her head bit by bit, following the direction of the pistol.


    Then she saw Qiu Tu leaning against the door, with the gun pressed against her temple, while his gaze was deep, watching her intently.


    And as Qin Shuman looked over, Qiu Tu slowly spoke up,


    "Miss Shuman, who do you belong to?"


    "The Municipal Committee? Commissioner An? Commissioner Wang?"


    "Or... the military?"


    Seeing that it was Qiu Tu holding the gun at her, disbelief etched on her face, Qin Shuman said, "What are you going crazy about?"


    "What Municipal Committee, what military!"


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about!"


    Qiu Tu still did not see any flaws, so he retracted the gun without a change in expression, pretending to be satisfied, he nodded, "Good. You''ll need to keep up this act when we go back."


    He said, "I told Yan Chen that you might be a spy planted by ''The Military'' at his side."


    Seeing Qin Shuman''s surprised attempt to argue, Qiu Tu raised his hand to stop her, "This is the only way to ensure we stay alive."


    "Yan Chen is inherently distrustful. Unless he completely figures out your identity and fully assesses the gains and losses, he won''t lay a finger on you."


    "And if you want to live, we''ll have to work closely together; there''s no choice."


    "Scenarios like the one just now, you might face quite often in the coming days."


    "You must remain calm and not reveal any flaws."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, fear was apparent on Qin Shuman''s face.


    Shaking, she said, "I''m scared. I dare not. I''m afraid he''ll find out."


    "If he finds out, he won''t spare us."


    "Is that right..." Qiu Tu thought for a while, then reached behind to pull out a police dagger, and handed it to Qin Shuman.

 Chapter 5 - 5 This is the Chaotic Era

    Looking at the dagger in her hand, Qin Shuman looked up at Qiu Tu and asked with a trembling voice, "You... you want me to use this to kill him if things are exposed?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, he reached out and patted Qin Shuman''s heavy chest, saying,


    "If you find out that things have been exposed, pull it out and stab yourself here, stir it around, you''ll feel nothing in two seconds."


    "Trust me, being dead is better than living a life worse than death."


    Qin Shuman: ....


    Her face shifted through several expressions before her eyes reddened, and she heavily pounded Qiu Tu a few times with her hand, "You are such an asshole!"


    Her voice was laced with sobs, "You tricked me into bed, and now you want me to do something so dangerous."


    "I shouldn''t have come out today, I just shouldn''t have."


    Qiu Tu stared intently at the emotions on her face, seeing that she seemed truly frightened and regretful, so he showed her his tender side. He gently embraced the girl before him, patting her back, trying to comfort her.


    But behind her back, where the girl could not see, his gaze turned notably deep, filled with a darkness so thick it could not be dispersed....


    ....


    Women are indeed made of water.


    Qin Shuman''s tears were abundant, as was the water in other areas.


    Qiu Tu spent over ten minutes pacifying her before Qin Shuman gradually stopped crying.


    After soothing Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu pulled her over to sit on the battered sofa, ran through their story again, and briefly explained the next steps he needed her to cooperate with. He made sure she memorized it well before pulling her out of his home.


    At that moment, there were 4 hours and 10 minutes left until the life and death trial of that night....


    ...


    Stepping out of his home, Qiu Tu sniffed the decaying smell of the corridor and looked up at the sky.


    The sky of this world was overcast, as if perpetually shrouded by a thick miasma, heavy and dark.


    According to the memory of his predecessor, the sky had been like this ever since the Cataclysm, with sunshine becoming rare and precious.


    The Cataclysm that occurred decades ago had destroyed the world''s Order, demolished human civilization, and completely changed this world....


    "What... are you thinking about?" Seeing Qiu Tu in a daze, Qin Shuman, standing beside him, cautiously glanced over at him.


    Perhaps because she had recently had a gun pointed at her, Qin Shuman showed a bit of fear towards Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses, gave her a glance, and shook his head, "It''s nothing."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu lightly reminded her, "Don''t show that kind of expression. You''ll just get the both of us killed."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman gave him a pitiful look, took a few deep breaths, and adjusted her demeanor.


    Then she slapped her face, nodded at Qiu Tu, and carefully led the way down, holding onto the rust-streaked stair railing.


    Qiu Tu followed behind discreetly, keeping a moderate distance from Qin Shuman, close enough to ensure her safety without appearing too intimate.


    Qiu Tu''s home was located in a tube-shaped building on Old Alley Street. Even though this was already considered a nicer area in Xinjie City, it was still dilapidated:


    Stairs covered with cracks and gaps, corridors littered with discarded books, broken glass, and dirty plastic bags. It looked like a slum.


    ¡ªThe Planning Area was built upon the ruins of a city.


    Descending the worn staircase, Qiu Tu keenly sensed several covert gazes sweeping over them.


    ''It must be Yan Chen''s people.''


    As soon as he had reported the matter to Yan Chen, Qiu Tu guessed that given Yan Chen''s character, he would surely send people to monitor and observe.


    Moreover, he had guessed that, given the sensitivity of the matter, Yan Chen would definitely have to call trustworthy confidants from his direct department¡ªthat''s why he dared to steal a moment from his busy schedule to manipulate Qin Shuman.


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu was thinking this, an undercover detective stepped out from the shadows.


    He had a stern face, unsmiling and seemingly difficult to get along with.


    After taking big strides to Qiu Tu, he first gave Qiu Tu a penetrating look, then took out a black ID and flashed it, saying, "Agent Qiu, I am Fang Ming, a First Level Detective from the Special Service Department."


    "By the Bureau Chief''s orders, I am here to escort you and Miss Shuman to a villa in the city for a temporary rest. The Bureau Chief will speak with you tonight."


    ''Special Service Department?'' Qiu Tu looked deeply at the detective in front of him and felt a bit sentimental, "Yan Chen really holds me in high regard."


    As one of the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, the structure of the Investigation Bureau was complex and strict. In addition to the directly subordinate eleven departments, there were also seven branches and seventy-nine Public Security Offices under its jurisdiction.


    Among these dozens of departments, the one with the least power was the grassroots Public Security Office, while the ones with the most power were the Political Department and the Special Service Department among the eleven directly subordinate departments.


    As the two strongest departments of the Investigation Bureau:


    The Political Department was in charge of intelligence, espionage, counter-espionage, internal supervision, and various other affairs, holding a high and heavy authority.


    The Special Service Department, on the other hand, was responsible for countering anti-government armed forces, preventing riots, armed patrols during specific periods and in key areas, making it the Bureau''s most powerful force.


    Such a division of labor not only gave the Special Service Department an establishment independent of the Investigation Bureau but also allowed it to possess luxuriously equipped forces that could rival the military in power.


    This was an armed force that belonged solely to Yan Chen''s lineage, and it was also the key trump card that allowed him to secure his position as one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City.


    Therefore, even as Yan Chen''s "lackey," Qiu Tu could only obediently follow the orders of the Special Service Department.


    ''It looks like... Yan Chen is planning to lock down my and Qin Shuman''s movements, and then proceed to direct interrogation,'' Qiu Tu thought.


    ''Luckily, I have arranged a safety net.''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu, although expressionless, turned to Qin Shuman at his side and said, "Miss Shuman, you have heard the Bureau Chief''s order. From now on, your safety will be in the hands of Agent Fang."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman blinked her eyes.


    She cooperated by showing a look of disappointment, glanced at Fang Ming with her beautiful, peach-like eyes, and then turned to Qiu Tu with a grievance, saying, "But... I was hoping you would accompany me to Street Crossing for a stroll."


    After she spoke, she looked pitifully at Fang Ming, "Agent Fang..."


    As a confidant of Yan Chen, Fang Ming certainly recognized Qin Shuman and also knew about the relationship between Qin Shuman and Yan Chen.


    Since Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman''s affair had not been exposed, and Yan Chen would not tell a subordinate about being cuckolded, this immediately led Fang Ming to a misjudgment.


    He hesitated for a moment, glanced at the time, and, after a moment of thought, said to Qin Shuman, "Miss Shuman, the Bureau Chief will return to the villa in the city center before 18:00. I can only get you one and a half hours of time."


    Qin Shuman obediently nodded her head and agreed.


    Qiu Tu stood by with his hands in his pockets, watching coldly, like an outsider throughout the process.


    After reaching a consensus, Qin Shuman''s security was promptly handed over.


    The detective from the Special Service Department took over Qiu Tu''s position and began guarding next to Qin Shuman, while Qiu Tu and Fang Ming patrolled the periphery, with the group moving grandiosely towards the street corner. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps because such a group of neatly dressed people were too conspicuous on the street, the bottom-level citizens hiding in the dilapidated buildings did not dare to move, their gazes filled with fear, numbness, or dullness as they watched them walk past on the sewage-filled road, afraid to provoke these clearly prominent individuals.


    For most ordinary people in the city, whether it was Qiu Tu or Fang Ming, they were big shots who could easily decide their fate.


    What they didn''t know was that in front of the real big shots, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming were just like ants...


    This was the cruel reality, a cannibalistic world born from the Cataclysm...


    The detectives on the scene were already immune to these various gazes, so their expressions remained unchanged as they quietly escorted Qin Shuman through rows of low, run-down buildings to an old-fashioned sedan.


    This was a car specially prepared by Yan Chen for Qin Shuman.


    Seeing the old-fashioned sedan, Fang Ming quickly walked over, then reached out to open the rear car door, and offered a standard salute to Qin Shuman, "Miss Shuman, please."


    Qin Shuman turned her head to look back at Qiu Tu, and without receiving any response from him, she bit her lip with a look of resentful longing and lifted her skirt to walk over.


    Just as she reached the car door and bent her head to get in, suddenly from above her came a man''s teasing voice, "Heh heh, how embarrassing~"


    Upon hearing that voice, everyone looked around in confusion only to see a blur before them, and then with a "bang!" a body slammed heavily onto the roof of the old-fashioned sedan!


    In that instant, the roof of the car was smashed into a deep dent, and the broken body, with blood splattering and limbs flying, created chaos!


    The piercing screams and the wild laughter echoed throughout Old Alley Street...


    Such a major incident happening so suddenly left everyone with their heads buzzing.


    Only Qiu Tu maintained his composure at this moment, quickly stepping forward to protect the screaming Qin Shuman as they ran to the side.


    At the same time, the detectives from the Special Service Department also came to their senses. Like arrows shot out, they surrounded the two, raising their guns without hesitation and opening fire towards the rooftop...

 Chapter 6 - 6: Extremist Organization

    "Bang Bang!" "Bang Bang!" "Bang Bang!"


    Bullets flew chaotically, kicking up dust from the decrepit rooftops.


    The street was filled with the piercing screams of passersby and the sound of footsteps running in all directions.


    Qiu Tu shielded a trembling Qin Shuman as they ran to a fragmented low wall by the roadside, pressing her head down to hide her while cautiously peering out to assess the situation.


    The enemies were few, only seven or eight in number.


    They wore uniform black knit balaclava hats and patched-up tactical vests, with a large red cross spray-painted on their chests.


    That conspicuous attire allowed Qiu Tu to recognize them at a glance, ''Is this... the Innovative United Front?''


    The Innovative United Front, also known as the United Front, was an extremist anti-government armed force opposing the rule of the Eight Great Shelters of this world.


    Their objective was to liberate the Planning Area from the rule of the Eight Great Shelters, employing violent activities such as assassinations, kidnappings, and attacks as their main methods.


    Qiu Tu had heard Yan Chen mention this organization before. At that time, Yan Chen was so angry that his eyes nearly split apart as he cursed the organization as vermin!


    He hadn''t expected to actually see them today.


    If Qiu Tu could recognize the members of this organization, then Fang Ming and the other Special Service detectives certainly could as well.


    Therefore, the detectives'' shouts immediately filled the area,


    "It''s the vermin from the United Front!"


    "Take cover!"


    "On the rooftop, direction 30-70 degrees, 16 people, all armed!"


    At this moment, Fang Ming, the highest-ranking detective on site, fully took over the command of the scene; while frantically gesturing to his subordinates to disperse, he also shouted towards Qiu Tu''s side, "Ensure Miss Shuman''s safety, wait for us to eliminate the enemy!"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s arrangement, Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Shuman out of the corner of his eye.


    At the moment, Qin Shuman was still in a state of shock; cowering beneath him, she dared not move. Without any movement or unusual signs, but Qiu Tu felt something was amiss.


    Old Alley Street was just the most unremarkable out of Xinjie City''s seventy-nine streets. There were no military facilities, no government agencies, no United Banks¡ªnothing. Why would it be attacked by the United Front without any reason?


    Were they drawn here by those detectives from the Special Service Department?


    But... wasn''t that too coincidental?


    Qiu Tu couldn''t understand it and decided to observe a little longer.


    He peered cautiously to take in the scene.


    With one look, he was a bit startled.


    The Special Service Department was the most powerful force of the Investigation Bureau, and the United Front was known as a ferocious extremist organization. Qiu Tu originally thought there would be exchanges of fire and fierce combat between the two sides.


    But... the reality was that over thirty people from both sides, armed with over thirty guns, opened fire with a "bang, bang, bang." Though it was noisy, at best only some were injured, yet not a single person dropped out of the fight.


    Witnessing this scene of novices pecking at each other, Qiu Tu was shocked.


    What was this? An act?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu quickly rifled through his memory, trying to understand what was really happening.


    Soon, he found the reason.


    It turned out that in a world after a Cataclysm, resources were scarce. Gunpowder and firearms were rare resources. Hence the members of the extremist organizations had little training and were mediocre in skills.


    While the Special Service Department was indeed a powerful branch of the Investigation Bureau with many perks and bullet quotas, the fact was that Xinjie City had only been established for less than a year, and the lower-ranking detectives were mostly newly recruited novices without much training, which also made their skills quite average.


    This resulted in incapacitating the other party effectively when both sides engaged in combat.


    This unexpected discovery shocked Qiu Tu, but it also gave him a bold idea...


    Perhaps this was a good opportunity to break the deadlock?


    Keep in mind, although those two groups were incompetent, Qiu Tu was not!


    In his past life, to protect himself, he had played with guns every day, practiced shooting, and even had the opportunity to receive semi-militarized training. With his not-so-poor innate talent, his level was way above these rookies.


    He had even participated in a few small-scale squabbles and shootouts between gangs, acquiring some actual combat experience.


    If he could showcase his shooting skills in this gunfight, then operate a bit... perhaps tonight''s difficulty could be easily overcome, and he might not even need to head to Street Crossing....


    Slowly outlining a blueprint in his mind, before long, a plan gradually took shape in Qiu Tu''s head.


    A moment later, Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute.


    He took another look at the two parties in the midst of battle, then took out his old-model communicator from his pocket, pressed a few buttons, and sent a message.


    After the message was successfully sent, Qiu Tu reached toward his lower back and took the handgun that had once been pointed at Qin Shuman.


    This was the standard equipment given to the regular detectives by the Investigation Bureau, used to ensure absolute suppression over civilians in the Planning Area....


    He deftly ejected the magazine and checked the number of bullets: 12.


    Then he recalled the memories of the previous owner using this handgun.


    It had an effective range of about 40 meters, but since the guns of ordinary detectives were all old goods discarded by the Sanctuary, their precision might be somewhat off.


    However, for the current distance of just over twenty meters between the two sides, it was already enough.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu adeptly reinserted the magazine, rack the slide, and with high alert posture, observed the battlefield, patiently waiting for an opportunity.


    It was only a few seconds before Qiu Tu''s peripheral vision caught an enemy expose a large part of their body from cover on the opposite rooftop.


    In that instance, he didn''t hesitate for a second, suddenly leaning out and adopting the Weaver stance, aligning the sight in a straight line, and aimed at the enemy with a "Pop pop pop!" firing three shots!


    Gun smoke lingered, bullet shells flew, and three bullets like thunder tore through the air, striking towards that enemy with lightning speed.


    The timing Qiu Tu chose was so impeccable that the enemy had no chance to dodge!


    Thus, with a "crack!" "bang bang!" three sounds, a bullet whizzed past his body, and two bullets accurately penetrated his left abdomen and left leg!


    In that instant, the enemy, as if struck by a hammer, staggered uncontrollably! The next second, two blooms of blood blossomed, quickly staining his clothes red!


    "Thud!" He crumpled onto the rooftop, moaning and out of the fight!


    This was the first casualty since the start of the battle, so the entire battlefield seemed to freeze for a second at that moment.


    The detectives from the Special Service Department reflexively shifted their gaze towards Qiu Tu, as if seeing him for the first time.


    Meanwhile, the thugs from the extremist organization were taken aback, scrambling for cover and counterattacking in Qiu Tu''s direction.


    But by that time, Qiu Tu had already withdrawn back to cover well in advance, stray bullets whizzing past, hitting the wall he was hiding behind with a "bang bang," but they couldn''t harm him in the slightest.


    And so, under the sudden surprise of Qiu Tu''s intervention, the battlefield entered a brief period of calm. Neither side dared to shoot carelessly like before, becoming much more cautious instead.


    But... novices are novices, and even with extreme caution, they could still easily reveal flaws.


    Thus, it wasn''t long before Qiu Tu spotted another enemy leaving their cover, and he decisively moved his gun muzzle, firing three shots once again!


    "Pop pop pop!" "Bang!"


    This time, luck was average, and only one of the three bullets hit the enemy''s right chest, but it still succeeded in eliminating the opponent''s combat capability.


    But that was enough!


    If wounding an enemy badly the first time could be coincidence, doing so again crisply and efficiently the second time was hardly likely to be another coincidence.


    So...


    "Retreat! Retreat!"


    The opponents, who were just a bunch of disorganized soldiers, now saw that Qiu Tu was a "sharpshooter" and lost their will to fight, quickly carrying their wounded away in a frantic retreat. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The low slanted rooftops of the abandoned city provided perfect cover for retreating, so the detectives from the Special Service Department bluffed with a few more shots before letting the enemy flee without pursuing.


    And as the anti-government army retreated, the detectives from the Special Service Department finally began to emerge from their various covers slowly.


    They looked at Qiu Tu with complicated expressions, opening their mouths several times as if to speak, but not knowing quite what to say...

 Chapter 7 - 7 Primogeniture Power

    As the Investigation Bureau''s ace department, the Special Service Department enjoyed abundant training resources, handsome remuneration, and always looked down on other departments from their lofty perch.


    Faced with ordinary agents like Qiu Tu, the detectives of the Special Service Department felt an overwhelming sense of superiority, believing that their abilities far exceeded Qiu Tu''s. That''s why they told Qiu Tu to hide at the first sign of an ambush, waiting for them to eliminate the enemy.


    However... the situation didn''t unfold as they had envisioned. Their routine training was of little use in real combat. After dozens of shots, only two or three mobsters were hit.


    Instead, it was this ordinary agent they had underestimated who stepped up in such a time, effortlessly neutralizing two enemies with two shots and repelling the enemy attack all by himself.


    This caused them to question their life choices, and their gazes at Qiu Tu began to change...


    Qiu Tu keenly sensed the shift in the atmosphere, but he didn''t allow himself to become complacent. Instead, he coolly engaged the safety on his weapon, tucked the gun back into his waistband, and warned, "Let''s not drop our guard, guys. Be careful of a second enemy attack."


    After speaking, he turned to Fang Ming, "Agent Fang, should you perhaps report to the Bureau Chief about the situation here? See if the Political Department or Security Section needs to get involved."


    Upon Qiu Tu''s reminder, the other detectives remembered that the danger wasn''t fully resolved yet. They quickly began to divide the tasks, some standing guard around, others moving to Qin Shuman''s side for protection, and some started to climb onto rooftops to search for clues.


    As for Fang Ming, he readily pulled out a communicator and began to report to Yan Chen.


    While the Special Service detectives were busy, a clamor of footsteps and shouts suddenly erupted at the entrance of the street.


    "Brother Tu! Brother Tu!" "Hurry! Hurry!" "Here! Here!"


    About a dozen uniformed detectives, though somewhat disheveled, grasped worn police batons and rushed in haste from the corner of the western street.


    Leading them was an exceptionally burly detective.


    Standing at one meter ninety, with a physique like a bear and a back like a tiger, his arms were as thick as the average person''s thighs, which unavoidably made one''s heart tighten at the sight of him.


    Unlike the other detectives who carried police batons, he wielded a sledgehammer the size of a fist, his eyes fierce and murderous. If not for the tight-fitting detective uniform that seemed ready to burst, he resembled more a blood-stained mobster than an officer.


    "Special Service handling a case! Which department are you from!"


    Seeing the group of unfamiliar, aggressively approaching detectives, the Special Service detectives standing guard to the west stepped forward vigilantly and sharply halted them.


    Perhaps intimidated by the newcomers'' numbers, his hand even moved toward the pistol at his back, looking as though he would draw it at the slightest provocation.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, hearing the noise, also looked over and instantly focused on the muscular leading detective.


    "Ah-Tai!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the strong detective became even more agitated, waving his small sledgehammer and preparing to rush forward.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly addressed the detaining Special Service detective, "They are temporary investigators from Old Alley Street; I called them to assist with the case. Let them through."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Special Service detective hesitated for a moment but ultimately nodded and stepped aside to let them pass.


    With the Special Service no longer obstructing them, the group of temporary detectives hastily came through and surrounded Qiu Tu.


    After stealthily excluding the views of the others, the burly Ah-Tai closed in on Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Brother Tu, as soon as we received your message, we rushed over. Did something happen?"


    Then, with fierce eyes, he glanced at the detective who had initially stopped him and quietly asked, "Did that guy give you trouble?"


    "Don''t worry. Just say the word, and I''ll squat by his door tonight, catch him off guard, and give his skull a couple of whacks with the hammer, guaranteeing he won''t see tomorrow''s sun!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s menacing words, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon him as he recalled the identity of the group before him...


    Although his predecessor had been Yan Chen''s lackey, his position within the Investigation Bureau wasn''t high, merely a Second-Class Investigator, and his role was in the weak Administrative Office. So, upon leaving Yan Chen, he had virtually no influence in the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Fortunately, the predecessor was a loyal person. After ingratiating himself with Yan Chen, he did not forget the brothers who had struggled with him at the bottom.


    Therefore, after being promoted to a Second-Class Investigator and gaining a bit of power, the predecessor, using Yan Chen''s name, secretly arranged jobs for his dozen or so brothers.


    Although they were only temporary investigators at the grassroots Public Security Office, without ranks or guns, they at least had a regular ration and hope for a permanent position.


    These brothers did not let down Qiu Tu''s loyalty, either. After becoming temporary investigators, they still looked up to Qiu Tu as the leading figure. They were always ready to take action. Many of the things Qiu Tu couldn''t do personally were handled by them.


    One could say they were in the same boat with Qiu Tu, sharing both honor and loss. They were Qiu Tu''s true direct force in this world.


    That''s why, on receiving a single message from Qiu Tu, they hurried over, armed with police gear.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t treat them as outsiders; instead, he naturally spoke in a low voice, "Did you bring the things I asked you to?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Ah-Tai nodded, then turned to look at a detective with a hooked nose beside him, "Eagle."


    The detective with the hooked nose reached into his coat and pulled out a weighty little cloth bag, handing it to Qiu Tu. As it passed from hand to hand, the "clang" of dully clashing metal came from inside the small cloth bag.


    Qiu Tu took it, opened it to check, and confirmed it was what he wanted before tucking it into his jacket.


    Then, he clapped Ah-Tai on the shoulder and whispered a few instructions. Ah-Tai frowned as he nodded and listened.


    Their exchange appeared lengthy, but in reality, it lasted only a few brief seconds. So, by the time the detectives from the Special Service Department looked their way, Qiu Tu had already taken the initiative to lead the temporary investigators in search of Fang Ming.


    No one knew the extent of the arrangements Qiu Tu had secretly made in those short seconds.


    When they found Fang Ming, he had just ended a communication.


    Seeing Qiu Tu approach, he took the initiative to say, "Agent Qiu, you''ve arrived at the right time, I was about to come find you."


    He said, "I''ve just finished talking with the Bureau Chief. Learning about the attack from the Lianzhen mobsters, he''s extremely furious. He demands that the Political Department intervene and collaborate with the Special Service Department to jointly investigate and cleanse Xinjie City of the Lianzhen mobsters."


    "Due to the current chaos in the city, he has ordered you and Miss Shuman to return to your city villa as soon as possible and not to linger outside."


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu covertly glanced at the countdown timer at the top left corner of his vision. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [3:28:12]


    The countdown hadn''t changed, indicating that Yan Chen likely didn''t plan to interrogate him and Qin Shuman ahead of time, but simply wanted to prevent them from going to Street Crossing.


    If this were Qiu Tu before the shootout, such a change might have been troubling. But now...


    "Alright. No problem," Qiu Tu responded nonchalantly.


    He even remembered his own plan. With Ah-Tai behind him, he said to Fang Ming, "Agent Fang, this is my cousin Ah-Tai. He''s currently a temporary investigator on Old Alley Street."


    "Hearing about the shootout here, he immediately brought his colleagues to assist."


    "What do you suggest we do...?"

 Chapter 8 - 8 Greed

    Earlier when Qiu Tu came by, Fang Ming had already noticed Ah-Tai.


    After all, in a world where the average height following the Catastrophe was around five-foot-three to five-foot-seven, the six-foot-three Ah-Tai stood out like a crane among chickens. Plus, with his broad shoulders and muscular build, it was hard not to draw attention.


    So, hearing what Qiu Tu said, Fang Ming sized up Ah-Tai and showed a look of interest on his face.


    But he didn''t say much, simply nodding his head, "Okay. Then leave three or four to help maintain order here."


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu looked at the group of temporary detectives and after a moment of thought, called out, "Ah-Kun, Monkey, Ah-Shui. You three stay with Ah-Tai to maintain order here."


    "The rest of you head back to the Public Security Office."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu made a covert gesture towards the man with the aquiline nose standing next to Ah-Tai.


    The man with the aquiline nose nodded subtly without a word, then led the other temporary detectives away from the scene¡­


    ......


    After arranging for Ah-Tai, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming escorted Qin Shuman back to her townhouse in the city center, while the other Special Service detectives remained on standby at the scene, maintaining order and waiting for the Political Department personnel to arrive.


    On the way back, Qin Shuman sat in the back seat of the old sedan, Fang Ming in the passenger seat, while Qiu Tu drove.


    The predecessor managed to suck up to Yan Chen and become a detective chiefly because of the rare driving skills in the Planning Area. The modern-day Qiu Tu, having come from the contemporary era, naturally had no issues with his driving skills either.


    So, watching Qiu Tu drive steadily, Fang Ming asked curiously,


    "Agent Qiu, your driving is quite good. Do all from the Administrative Office have this skill?"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s question, Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and responded with a smile, "The Administrative Office is there to provide logistical support for various departments after all. We need to have a mix of random talents."


    "Unlike you guys in the Special Service Department, with good treatment, better equipment, and greater power, you just need to train peacefully without worrying about anything else."


    As he spoke, he feigned a sense of envy, "All departments envy you guys and would want to transfer there."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Ming just grunted in assent, not bothering with pleasantries. Although Qiu Tu was somewhat flattering, what he said was true. As one of the two ace departments of the Investigation Bureau, the Special Service Department indeed was the division all detectives wished to join.


    However, the entry threshold for the Special Service Department was high; even in its early stages, it required physical capabilities far above the ordinary people of this post-Cataclysm world. Ordinary detectives simply could not join.


    With that thought, the image of Ah-Tai''s muscular and robust stature suddenly popped into Fang Ming''s mind, and he was involuntarily intrigued. Then, probing, he asked, "Agent Qiu, that Ah-Tai¡­"


    Seeing Fang Ming taking the bait, a subtle smile crept across Qiu Tu''s lips. However, he remained composed and, sticking to the plan, began to introduce Ah-Tai with a mix of truth and fiction,


    "Oh, Ah-Tai. He''s a distant cousin of mine. He''s been daring and combative since childhood, with a hearty temperament, but¡­ well, he''s not the brightest bulb in the chandelier."


    "Back when Xinjie City was still the Disaster Zone, he had joined a gang and got his hands bloodied."


    "Later, when Xinjie City was about to be established, the military came in early to clear out the underground forces, their gang was eradicated, and he was marked for resisting the military, and he had to hide out even after Xinjie City was established."


    "So later, when the Bureau Chief was recruiting detectives to establish the Investigation Bureau, he didn''t participate in the selection."


    "I received help from his parents when I was young. After I became a detective, he came to rely on me, and I couldn''t very well refuse, so I pulled some strings to clean his record and introduced him as a temporary detective on Old Alley Street."


    "Though he''s a bit rough and simple-minded, he knows to repay a debt of gratitude. That''s why when he heard I was attacked today, he didn''t hesitate to bring his colleagues over to help."


    In just a few sentences, Qiu Tu had laid out Ah-Tai''s "history" and character, giving Fang Ming a general impression.


    Yet he didn''t say anything more, as if he was just asking casually.


    As Qiu Tu drove, he kept stealing glances at Fang Ming from the corner of his eye. Seeing Fang Ming deep in thought, Qiu Tu felt assured that things were likely settled.


    He had steered the topic towards the Special Service Department precisely to tempt Fang Ming.


    Being a First Level Detective in the Special Service Department, Fang Ming had the power to recommend regular detectives into the Special Service Department.


    These recommended detectives naturally carried the label of their sponsors and became the direct subordinates of the latter.


    Therefore, in a situation where the Special Service Department is not yet fully staffed, every team leader will do their utmost to scout for talent and claim it for their own use.


    That''s why Qiu Tu deliberately showed off Ah-Tai in front of Fang Ming and casually steered the conversation towards "joining the Special Service Department". He was tempting Fang Ming...


    Once Fang Ming was interested and recommended Ah-Tai to the Special Service Department, it would be as though Qiu Tu had planted a spy in the strongest department of the Investigation Bureau, which would make many operations much more convenient.


    His past life experiences in a fraud syndicate taught Qiu Tu that "greed" is humanity''s greatest original sin, and that wisely exploiting "the enemy''s greed" is the most powerful weapon in the world...


    This was the case with Fang Ming, as it was with Yan Chen tonight...


    ....


    Xinjie City was designated a Planning Area just a short year ago. Therefore, many parts were still in disarray and ruin. However... this did not include the districts of the privileged.


    As the military had come in advance to clean up the underground forces in Xinjie City, the future mid to high-level managers had already sent people to construct their residences in Xinjie City early on.


    Thus, when Qiu Tu drove to Yan Chen''s townhouse in the city, a vast garden greeted his eyes.


    In the garden, a plethora of precious flowers were meticulously planted: mutated Dendrobium nobile, mutated Allium, and mutated Chrysanthemum all vied for bloom, their fragrance overwhelming, like a vibrant oil painting.


    Along the winding paths, the shrubs were trimmed to perfection. The last rays of the setting sun cast a dreamy glow upon the path, stunningly beautiful.


    Through the rearview mirror, Qiu Tu glanced back at the dilapidated, old residential buildings and the potholed streets behind him, as if he was looking at two different worlds...


    Driving through the garden gate and under the scrutinous gaze of the Security Section agents at the gatehouse, Qiu Tu drove up to the villa''s entrance.


    Upon arriving, Fang Ming got out of the car first to open the door for Qin Shuman. However, Qin Shuman hesitated, seemingly reluctant to disembark.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment before persuasively hinting, "Miss Shuman, rest assured. The Bureau Chief won''t be angry just because you sneaked out to have fun."


    "I''ll explain it to him properly tonight."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman paused for a moment before sighing in relief as if she had understood, and then gingerly stepped out of the car, holding her dress and bowing her head.


    As he watched Qin Shuman and Fang Ming step by step enter the dark villa, Qiu Tu''s gaze became profound, his eyes unflustered...


    Then he drove to the backyard, handed over the car to a servant, and also stepped into the villa...


    [2:53:51]


    ...


    Three hours flew by in the blink of an eye.


    At 18:15 in the evening, the door to the guest room where Qiu Tu was temporarily resting was gently knocked.


    When Qiu Tu opened the door, standing outside was a maid in her thirties, barrel-waisted and dark-skinned.


    At the sight of the maid, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered. She was Qin Shuman''s personal maid and the key witness who had testified to Qiu Tu''s affair with Qin Shuman: Cui Lan.


    "Agent Qiu, the Bureau Chief requests your presence," Cui Lan said.


    Upon hearing Cui Lan''s words, Qiu Tu''s face remained as calm as a lake''s surface.


    He glanced at the countdown timer in the upper left corner of his vision.


    [00:18]


    There''s no denying it, the Golden Finger is indeed precise. When it says five hours, it means exactly five hours.


    Thinking thus, he took a deep, silent breath, then straightened the collar of his uniform slightly before speaking in a low voice, "Thank you."


    Cui Lan nodded respectfully but couldn''t suppress the schadenfreude smile curling at the corners of her mouth as she turned away to lead the way.


    Qiu Tu sharply captured the change in her expression but said nothing. His gaze, however, grew ever more intense... S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 9 - 9: Showtime!

    Upon leaving the room, Qiu Tu followed behind Cui Lan.


    He walked at a measured pace, his demeanor composed. The flickering lights in the hallway cast his tall shadow, like a painting in motion.


    Soon, the two arrived at the entrance of an elegantly decorated study.


    At the entrance of the study waited a middle-aged man with rimmed glasses and a scholarly demeanor. He was dressed in a well-tailored Zhongshan suit, with a duplicitous smile hanging on his face, resembling a sly fox.


    Qiu Tu recognized him, he was the director of the Political Department at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Yan Chen''s right-hand man, his chief strategist: Jia Shu.


    Despite his genteel and courteous appearance, only those who had truly dealt with him knew how cruel and bloody his methods could be.


    The Political Department''s reputation for instilling fear throughout Xinjie City was largely due to him.


    Each midnight, the blurred corpses carried out from the Political Department could be attributed to this sly fox more often than not.


    He was like a shadow cast by the Investigation Bureau''s vast reach, silently penetrating every corner of the city, unfathomable and omnipresent...


    Thus, upon seeing Jia Shu, Qiu Tu immediately became alert. He quickly stopped and saluted Jia Shu, "Sir!"


    It seemed that Jia Shu had been waiting specifically for Qiu Tu. Upon seeing him, Jia Shu sized him up and then asked with a smile, "Qiu Tu?"


    After seeing Qiu Tu nod, Jia Shu''s smile grew wider, "The Bureau Chief is waiting for you. Please."


    Having said that, he turned and opened the study''s grand door, gesturing for Qiu Tu to enter.


    The light within the study was dim. Qiu Tu couldn''t tell if it was an illusion, but the open door felt like the gaping maw of a beast, ready to devour anyone at any moment...


    Today, however, he was prepared for a walk in the tiger''s den, so without revealing any emotion, he took a deep breath and stepped inside...


    .....


    Yan Chen''s study was spacious, but dimly lit. The large windows were draped with two thick curtains that blocked all outside light, casting large shadows.


    The only light in the study came from a desk lamp, which was dimmed to illuminate only a small area of the large rosewood desk. Yan Chen sat behind that desk in the shadows, where only his silhouette was faintly visible...


    "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Upon seeing the overlord of Xinjie City, Qiu Tu quickly straightened up and gave a respectful salute.


    But.....there was no response.


    Keeping his salute, Qiu Tu tried to discern Yan Chen''s expression, but the room was too dark to see anything clearly.


    He just felt that Yan Chen was observing him, a chilling gaze that made one''s scalp tingle and shudder in fear... S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After about a dozen seconds, a dull "Hmm" came from the shadows, "At ease."


    Qiu Tu let out a sigh of relief, lowered his hand, and then used his peripheral vision to scan the study.


    There was more than just Yan Chen in the study. Apart from Jia Shu, who had led Qiu Tu in and now stood beside Yan Chen, Fang Ming was also present, standing not far from Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Fang Ming, Qiu Tu''s heart stirred, and he had a rough guess: it looked like his arrangements from the afternoon might have had an effect.


    Indeed, accompanying this thought, Jia Shu, who stood by Yan Chen''s side, slowly began to speak.


    With a mocking smile, he looked at Qiu Tu and praised, "I hear... Agent Qiu has excellent marksmanship?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu replied earnestly, "Sir, my subordinate''s marksmanship is quite ordinary!"


    "Oh? Is that so?" Jia Shu said with an exaggerated expression of surprise, "But that''s not what I heard."


    His gaze swept over Fang Ming, who stood to the side, and he said with a sly grin, "Did you know that in just a few short hours, the news of a sharpshooter from the Administrative Office, repelling the United Front with six shots, has spread throughout the entire Investigation Bureau?"


    "Even some staff members at the City Hall have heard of it."


    "On my way here, I received at least three communications, all concerning you."


    Qiu Tu didn''t directly answer Jia Shu''s question. He turned to look at Yan Chen and then sincerely said, "Bureau Chief, you personally chose me to join the Investigation Bureau; you are aware of my abilities."


    "I''m all right with driving and handling matters. But my marksmanship is truly lacking."


    Yan Chen, seated in the shadows, sat upright in his chair, his gaze deep and tiger-like as he watched Qiu Tu without a word.


    Jia Shu adjusted the gold-framed glasses on the bridge of his nose and said with a smile, "Agent Qiu, are you implying... that this matter is a fabrication?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "No, it''s not fabricated. But there''s more to the story."


    Speaking, he glanced at Fang Ming beside him and earnestly said, "Agent Fang was at the scene at the time. He saw how formidable the United Front was."


    "The Special Service Department attacked with full firepower for over a minute and failed to injure a single member of the United Front."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Ming''s face suddenly looked a bit embarrassed. But in front of Yan Chen, he dared not hide anything, and could only nod slightly, speaking in a grave voice, "Yes."


    Having said that, he also took the initiative to admit his mistake, "It''s our lack of sufficient training and lack of real combat experience that led to disarray in our ranks."


    "But Bureau Chief, believe me, as long as..."


    He was only halfway through his sentence when he was interrupted by Qiu Tu, "Agent Fang, don''t underestimate yourself."


    Fang Ming frowned and looked at Qiu Tu, not understanding what Qiu Tu was really trying to say.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t even look at him, gazing directly at Yan Chen as he said, "Bureau Chief, the agents of the Special Service Department are actually very capable, it''s just that, today the United Front was intentionally avoiding their attacks."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu''s smile did not reach his eyes, as he said, "Agent Qiu must be joking. In battle, isn''t avoiding enemy attacks the very intention, rather than ''intentionally'' getting hit by the enemy?"


    After speaking, Jia Shu seemed to have thought of something, suddenly paused, and narrowed his eyes at Qiu Tu.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu finally revealed the first smile since entering the room. He nodded and said, "Correct! Those few shots of mine were intentionally allowed by them to hit!"


    Perhaps because Qiu Tu''s words seemed too preposterous, the study fell silent for a moment...


    After a while, Fang Ming looked at Qiu Tu, completely perplexed, and said, "Qiu Tu, what are you talking about? They let you hit them on purpose?"


    But before he could finish, the normally reticent Yan Chen suddenly spoke up, "Fang Ming, get out."


    Fang Ming looked at Yan Chen in the shadows with a face full of surprise, not understanding why he was suddenly being ordered to leave.


    But Yan Chen offered no explanation, only staring at him with that deep gaze.


    The heavy pressure swept over him, causing beads of sweat to form on Fang Ming''s forehead.


    After a moment, he lowered his head, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    Having said that, he saluted and walked quickly out of the study.


    As the study door closed behind him, Yan Chen slowly straightened up, his tiger-like eyes ominously fixed on Qiu Tu, "Tell me what exactly happened."


    Qiu Tu responded and then slowly began, "Bureau Chief, it''s a long story, starting from when we hung up the communication."


    He said, "After I hung up your call, I returned to Miss Shuman''s side and took the initiative to tell her about the communication with you."


    "She was startled, then asked me how I dealt with it."


    "I told her that I brushed you off with an excuse that wouldn''t arouse your suspicion, and once again expressed my affections for her."


    "Perhaps she saw that as my Letter of Challenge, so she finally stopped acting and hinted to me in a veiled manner that her identity was extraordinary. As long as I remained loyal to her, she could guarantee my prosperity and riches."


    "And to prove her power to me, she said she would also send me a welcoming gift..."

 Chapter 10 - 10: Technology before the Cataclysm

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen asked deeply, "A welcome gift?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes."


    Then he gestured towards Jia Shu and confirmed, "It''s exactly what Chief Jia mentioned earlier, ''repelling the United Front with six shots''."


    "Back when I was at my home, Miss Shuman had already told me that she would arrange for the United Front to attack."


    "She told me to be on my guard and not to get accidentally injured."


    "She also told me that this attack was designed to make me famous."


    "During the incident, members of the United Front would deliberately expose their weaknesses for me to shoot, and even deliberately walk into my bullets. Afterwards, I would be celebrated for repelling them all by myself."


    "To ensure that the Special Service Department wouldn''t steal my thunder, the members of the United Front would do everything possible to avoid getting hit by the agents of the Special Service Department."


    "So, even if there were some good opportunities for a counterattack on the scene, they would pretend not to see them."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s exaggerated yet somewhat reasonable explanation, Yan Chen''s gaze was deep, his inner thoughts inscrutable.


    Meanwhile, Jia Shu squinted his eyes, the gaze behind his glasses flickering non-stop, as if he was constantly contemplating.


    The pace on the scene was now in Qiu Tu''s hands, so seeing that the two men were silent, Qiu Tu also shut his mouth, saying nothing.


    For a time, the room fell into an eerie silence.


    As time ticked away second by second, the atmosphere in the room grew increasingly oppressive.


    Just when the tension was about to reach its peak, Jia Shu snapped back to reality. He looked at Yan Chen and, seeing no objection from him, he forced a smile and took the initiative to break the deadlock, "Qiu Tu, all you''ve said is just your side of the story. Do you have any additional details or evidence?"


    Qiu Tu had prepared thoroughly when he planned everything, so he declared confidently, "Of course, I do."


    "1. Since I knew in advance about the United Front''s attack, I was mentally prepared early on. This allowed me to react first and rush to protect Miss Shuman when the attack occurred, while the trained agents of the Special Service Department were still unresponsive, thus continuing the plan."


    "2. Knowing that the target of the United Front''s attack was neither Miss Shuman nor myself, when Agent Fang Ming arranged for me to retreat first while protecting Miss Shuman, I did not retreat. Instead, I waited on the side for an opportunity."


    "3. Because I was aware of the intended outcome of this play, and at Miss Shuman''s request, I sent a message to the Old Alley Street Public Security Office in advance, asking backup agents to come and assist¡ªactually to increase the number of eyewitnesses and magnify the impact of the incident."


    "The heads can verify these points by inquiring with Agent Fang Ming or agents from the Special Service Department and the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen gestured indifferently towards Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu bowed slightly in acknowledgment, then left the study to verify the information.


    After Jia Shu had left, only Qiu Tu and Yan Chen remained in the room.


    Yan Chen stared at Qiu Tu for a while, then picked up a cigarette case from the mahogany desk and pulled out a cigarette.


    He put the cigarette in his mouth and then fished out a matchbox.


    "Scratch!" Accompanied by the sound of the match striking, a flame burst forth in the dim study.


    Yan Chen brought the flame close, lit the cigarette, then shook out the matchstick and tossed it into the ashtray.


    Qiu Tu watched silently the entire time, not speaking.


    Having lit his cigarette, Yan Chen smoked and played with the matchbox, ''clack clack,'' shaking it quietly. After doing this for a while, he exhaled twin dragons of smoke from his nose and began to speak distantly,


    "Qin Shuman could not possibly be an informant. You have been looking for the wrong excuse from the very beginning."


    Perhaps because of the certainty in Yan Chen''s words, for a moment, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat suddenly accelerated, and he felt an ominous premonition.


    Yan Chen didn''t look at Qiu Tu. He silently smoked his cigarette and said slowly, "In your communication, you said she had several suspicious points."


    "For example, she just arrived in Xinjie City, yet she seems to know Xinjie City very well."


    "For instance, she clearly comes from the lower class, yet her skin is smooth, fair, and without a single scar or callus."


    "Another thing is, with Xinjie City being so large and chaotic, why such a beauty just happened to be found by me...."


    As he spoke, Yan Chen looked profoundly at Qiu Tu, "The doubts you''ve found do seem very reasonable."


    "But you''ve overlooked the most important point."


    "That is... the origin story of Qin Shuman I told you is fake...."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s pupils slightly contracted, a bolt of shock flashing through his mind!


    Yan Chen lowered his head and took a drag of his cigarette, continuing, "Qin Shuman was not a Disaster Zone refugee I found while on patrol."


    "She was a ''Cloned Female Body'' presented to me by the Qin Family."


    "This technology predates the Cataclysm."


    Surrounded by swirling smoke, his voice seemed even more ethereal, "Humans are a very resilient species. The great Cataclysm of 40 years ago nearly wiped out humanity, but still, some people stubbornly survived."


    "Among these people, the majority are ordinary folks, but a small portion are national leaders, wealthy businessmen with control over various means of production, and scientists with core technologies."


    "In the first few years of the Cataclysm, they laid low to conserve their strength."


    "But after the Cataclysm ended, they burst forth from the soil, using their core competitive advantages to grow and multiply through blood and interests in the various Cataclysm-affected cities, eventually forming clans and interest groups of various sizes."


    "And the Qin Family... is one of them."


    "The technology they possess is ''Cloned Female Bodies''."


    At this point, Yan Chen paused, looking at Qiu Tu dispassionately,


    "Over the years, the Sanctuary has been expanding into the Disaster Zones, establishing a number of Planning Areas, which inevitably leads to conflicts with the existing powers in those Disaster Zones."


    "Faced with these established powers, the Sanctuary typically uses two methods to resolve issues."


    "One is cooperation. Collaborate with clans and interest groups willing to side with the Sanctuary by conceding some positions in the Governing Hall and the Investigation Bureau, absorbing them to jointly govern the Planning Areas."


    "Like Fang Ming, he became a First Level Detective in a crucial department at such a young age with no remarkable accomplishments¡ª simply because his family elders hold high positions in the Investigation Bureau."


    "The other is suppression. Resolutely suppress, without mercy, the Underground organizations, Dark forces, and some clans and interest groups that are unwilling to cooperate." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The United Front, those disgusting vermin, are merely the remnants who luckily escaped our crackdown."


    "As for how to distinguish which clans and interest groups are willing to cooperate, and which are not...."


    As he spoke, Yan Chen exhaled his last puff of smoke, snuffing out the glowing cigarette butt in the ashtray, "That is determined by the Investigation Bureau Chiefs of each Planning Area."


    After finishing, he looked deeply at Qiu Tu and summed up, "So, the Qin Family dare not offend me."


    "Not just offend¡ª they have even been secretly pledging allegiance to me since four years ago."


    "And Qin Shuman was a Cloned Female Body specifically found and cultivated to my tastes by them...."


    "Because the technology isn''t perfect, so her lifespan isn''t long, just a few short years."


    "You mean... such a woman with that identity was a spy planted beside me by City Hall? And today, she even helped you make a name for yourself?"


    In the end, Yan Chen crossed his hands and rested his chin on them, looking at Qiu Tu with interest....

 Chapter 11 - 11 Reversing the Situation!

    At this moment, watching Yan Chen''s cat-and-mouse game expression and listening to his explanations that were detailed to the point of mockery, Qiu Tu felt like cursing.


    He finally understood why "Crisis Intuition" in its second hint reminded him, "Your lies still have some loopholes that won''t hold up to scrutiny." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This wasn''t "some loopholes"; this was nothing but holes!


    Who could have imagined that everyone treated Yan Chen as a "brother," yet he played mind games with his "brothers," going so far as to fabricate the background of his own mistress!


    However, he also knew that now was not the time for regret or frustration.


    After all, regret and frustration wouldn''t help the situation at all and might even cut off his last avenue of escape.


    So he had to calm down and find a way to break the game!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu slowly composed his emotions, and his mind began to operate at high speed.


    At this time, his "work" experience from many years in a fraud group finally came into play...


    During those years "working" in a fraud group, Qiu Tu received comprehensive scam training, which included not only how to see through a person''s weaknesses but also...how to continue the scam after being exposed.


    Therefore, he quickly assembled the clues he knew and adjusted his plan.


    Soon, he had a plan in mind...


    Possibly because he had a plan, he no longer panicked. So the next second, Qiu Tu naturally began his second performance.


    He didn''t make any defense, but instead showed a timely expression of confusion and then asked Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief... are you sure that everything you just said is true?"


    "There''s something wrong with this matter."


    "The Qin Shuman you''re talking about and the Qin Shuman I''ve been in contact with don''t match up at all..."


    ''The one who lies will explain when someone points out the loopholes. The one who tells the truth will first suspect that there is something wrong with the other party.''


    Then, Qiu Tu accurately pointed out the flaws in Yan Chen''s previous statements.


    He said, "Additionally, Bureau Chief, even if everything you say is true, it doesn''t clear Qin Shuman of suspicion."


    "After all, Qin Shuman was cloned and raised by the Qin Family the entire time. No one knows what they taught her during her upbringing."


    "The Qin Family might have taught her to be forever loyal to you, or they might have instructed her to gather secrets around you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s rebuttal, Yan Chen''s smile slowly faded, and his face became expressionless.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s heart settled a bit, and he continued to point out the problems in Yan Chen''s logic chain,


    "Furthermore, you said the Qin Family doesn''t dare to offend you because you hold the life and death of the Qin Family."


    "Allow your subordinate to make a bold assumption. If you truly can control the life and death of the Qin Family, wouldn''t you also be able to easily handle the other clans and organizations of Xinjie City?"


    "As the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, you can easily handle the various clans and organizations of the entire city, so can the Bureau Chiefs of other cities also easily handle their city''s clans and organizations?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused and then quietly asked, "Then... what''s the point of Sanctuaries establishing City Halls in various cities? Why not just let the Investigation Bureau be in charge of all the city''s big and small matters....?"


    Upon hearing Qiu''s words, Yan Chen did not speak for a moment, and the atmosphere in the study room suddenly became silent....


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew he had made the right bet.


    He didn''t show it on his face, but inwardly he was already unceasingly cursing Yan Chen''s ancestors.


    This old bastard was indeed trying to deceive him!


    No wonder he felt something was off when he was listening: if the Investigation Bureaus of each city were really that powerful, wouldn''t that render the Municipal Committees powerless?


    How could the Sanctuaries and Municipal Committees possibly allow such a powerful department to exist!


    This simply didn''t make sense!


    Of course, Qiu Tu didn''t think that Yan Chen would lie about such a matter, he surmised that Yan Chen was most likely concealing part of the truth:


    For instance, the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau might indeed be able to "determine" whether a clan or organization was suitable for cooperation, but only had the "right to investigate," not the "decision-making power."


    Such a significant affair is likely to be reported to City Hall, where the Municipal Committee would discuss and decide.


    Therefore, even if the Investigation Bureau Chief concludes through investigation that a certain Clan is not suitable for cooperation, City Hall could disregard this investigation, send it back, and ask the Investigation Bureau to re-investigate.


    This is in line with Qiu Tu''s understanding of the power structure in the Planning Area.


    Just now, Yan Chen obviously played a game of words, deceiving Qiu Tu momentarily.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu felt even more confident. He was just about to "press his advantage" when suddenly, at that moment, the study door was flung open from the outside.


    Qiu Tu looked toward the door and saw Jia Shu walk in.


    Upon entering the study, he closed the door behind him, then walked slowly over to Yan Chen, bent down, and whispered a few sentences in Yan Chen''s ear.


    The study was very quiet, so even though Jia Shu''s voice was soft, Qiu Tu still vaguely heard parts of the key conversation, such as,


    "At the time of the attack, Qiu Tu was indeed the first to react."


    "Fang Ming did indeed command Qiu Tu to protect Qin Shuman and evacuate, but Qiu Tu didn''t evacuate."


    "The Old Alley Street Public Security Office did indeed receive a distress call from Qiu Tu right at the start of the shootout."


    Qiu Tu looked calmly at Yan Chen and Jia Shu, feeling even more settled, and then... he timely presented the most heavyweight piece of evidence.


    "Bureau Chief, perhaps you think that everything I''ve said is just empty talk, which is why you don''t trust me. But... in fact, I have evidence."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu took out the cloth bag that Ah-Tai had brought from within his coat.


    He stepped forward, placed the cloth bag on the mahogany desk, and then respectfully retreated to his original place.


    Jia Shu glanced at Yan Chen, and upon receiving an affirmative look, he walked to the desk, reached out to pick up the cloth bag, and opened it to take a look.


    At the first glance at the items inside, he was unconcerned, but at the second, his pupils contracted sharply, and with a bit of disbelief, he reached in and fiddled in the bag.


    After a moment, he quickly walked to Yan Chen''s side and said in a low but rapid voice, "Bureau Chief, take a look."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen looked up at the cloth bag.


    At that instant, Qiu Tu clearly saw Yan Chen''s figure pause for a moment.


    The next second, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with a grave expression and asked in a deep voice, "Do you know what this is?"


    Qiu Tu first nodded, then shook his head, "I only know a little."


    "Miss Shuman only told me this thing could change my fate, could give me incredible power."


    "But she didn''t elaborate. She only said that as long as I continued to work for her, she would give me even more... "


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen took the cloth bag, tilted it towards the mahogany desk.


    "Clang~" "Clang~"


    The first things to fall out were several Silver Yuan, followed by a few Little Goldfish.


    It wasn''t until the very end that a half-translucent, sea-blue stone, twinkling with faint light, fell onto the desk with a "clang."


    It was, unmistakably... Cataclysmic Material: Aurora Stone.


    Seeing this precious material obtained from Golden Finger fall onto the table, Qiu Tu felt no regret.


    On the contrary, he watched with composure as a flash of greed passed through Yan Chen''s eyes and recalled that phrase once more:


    Greed is the most powerful weapon in the world...


    Yan Chen was about to fall for it...


    ----


    The performance during the new book period is very important, so I kindly ask everyone to follow along every day, cast recommendation and Monthly Tickets, thank you everyone!


    Updates of 2-3 chapters daily, 6000-7000 words. Updated at 12 noon and midnight.

 Chapter 12 - 12 Promotion! Transfer!

    In fact, from the moment he obtained the "Aurora Stone," Qiu Tu had considered how to handle this cataclysm material.


    Despite just reading the introduction, he knew it was very valuable. But... no matter how valuable, Qiu Tu could not use it now.


    Looking at the introduction of the Aurora Stone, with phrases like "one of the cataclysm materials," "used in potion formulations," "for creating cataclysmic items"¡ªwere these things that Qiu Tu could currently achieve?


    It simply wasn''t realistic.


    For someone with Qiu Tu''s carefree character, something that wasn''t immediately useful was just waste.


    And coincidentally, this "waste" was also of high value, so naturally, Qiu Tu considered using it as "bait"...


    The person he intended to fish for, of course, was Yan Chen, who was now in control of Qiu Tu''s fate...


    Offering the Aurora Stone to Yan Chen would make it easier to gain his trust.


    After all, with Qiu Tu''s current status, it was utterly impossible for him to have obtained an Aurora Stone. Where could it have come from then?


    Looking into the people he could have come into contact with these past few days, the only suspect could be the unidentified Qin Shuman.


    This way, Qin Shuman would completely cement the identity that Qiu Tu had concocted for her, and Qiu Tu''s crisis would be neatly resolved.


    Secondly, one must be willing to sacrifice something small to gain something greater.


    During his previous life "working" within a fraud syndicate, Qiu Tu had seen plenty of such fishing tactics.


    First, throw out some sweeteners, arouse the target''s greed, then step by step lure the person deeper into the abyss.


    Now, the same strategy worked on Yan Chen.


    As long as he coveted the Aurora Stone, desiring more of them or wanting to unearth the channels where they could be obtained, he would need to maintain Qiu Tu as a connection...


    When that time came, Qiu Tu would slowly reel him in, allowing him to taste the sweetness but never letting him be fully satisfied, leading him step by step into the trap...


    And during this process, Qiu Tu would also continue to grow until he completely turned the tables...


    While Qiu Tu was pondering over this, Yan Chen, who had finished examining the Aurora Stone, also spoke up.


    His expression had clearly softened a lot, and he wasn''t so stern anymore.


    He fondled the Aurora Stone in his hand, his voice hoarse as he said, "Qiu Tu. Don''t blame me for not trusting you enough before..."


    "After all, Shuman is my closest confidante, it''s hard for me to believe that she would betray me without seeing irrefutable evidence..."


    Qiu Tu nodded, expressing understanding, his expression open and honest.


    Yan Chen fell silent for a while upon seeing this. After a moment, he turned his gaze to Qiu Tu, slightly puzzled, and asked,


    "However, even though I now believe what you have told me, there''s still something I don''t quite understand."


    Qiu Tu, "Please speak, Bureau Chief."


    Yan Chen neatly aligned the Silver Yuan, Little Goldfish, and the Aurora Stone on the table, then gestured with his hand, "The conditions offered by Qin Shuman were quite generous, why didn''t you accept them, and instead chose to report to me?"


    "Moreover, from where did you get the courage to suspect and investigate my closest confidante? Were you not afraid I would secretly execute you to keep it quiet?"


    Before his words fell, a trace of invisible killing intent quietly spread out.


    But Qiu Tu was not frightened in the least.


    ''Intimidate someone else... If he wanted to kill me, he would have done it long ago. Keeping me now means he''s interested...''


    Thinking this, he looked straight at Yan Chen, his face serious as he replied, "Bureau Chief... because I desperately want to make progress!"


    "Even though I am already a Second-Class Investigator, I am not satisfied!"


    "I want to be a First Level Detective, an Investigator Chief, an Office Head, or even a Deputy Director!"


    "Also, I don''t want to be confined to departments like the Administrative Office anymore, I want to transfer to the Special Service Department, the Political Department, the Security Section, or even... I''d be willing to work at a grassroots Public Security Office!"


    "So, I had to take a gamble!"


    "Otherwise, I would be filled with regret!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu beside Yan Chen adjusted the gold-framed glasses on the bridge of his nose and responded with a half-smile, "Agent Qiu is quite frank indeed."


    "I thought you were going to say it was all because of your loyalty to the Bureau Chief."


    Qiu Tu followed with a laugh, "That would have been too hypocritical."


    Listening to their conversation, Yan Chen quietly contemplated while fiddling with the Aurora Stone.


    After a moment, he raised his eyes to look at Qiu Tu and said expressionlessly, "Since you have such ambition, I am willing to give you an opportunity."


    "Do you not want to advance? Then I will let you advance."


    "Starting today, you will be transferred to work in the Political Department, promoted to the position of First Level Detective."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted slightly.


    While he had anticipated that Yan Chen would offer him something sweet, he had not expected it to be so substantial...


    It seemed that his rank was only raised by one level, but being transferred from the weaker Administrative Office to the most powerful Political Department meant his actual power had increased by more than tenfold.


    Moreover... don''t think that there''s only a small difference between a First Level Detective and a Second-Class Investigator; a First Level Detective is already qualified to lead a team, to be a team captain.


    The captain of the Political Department...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take a sharp breath.


    Yan Chen seemed to have given a bit too much, how did it feel like he was the one being hooked?


    Thinking this way, he couldn''t help but glance at Jia Shu, the head of the Political Department, but at that moment, Jia Shu''s expression remained unchanged, his smile even brighter than before. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Jia Shu''s reaction, Qiu Tu had an ominous premonition. His past life experience with the fraud group taught him:


    Pies don''t just fall from the sky for no reason. If a pie does fall, it''s likely laced with a potion¡ªwhen you are coveting someone else''s pie, they may well be coveting your behind...


    Indeed, after handing Qiu Tu such a big pie, Yan Chen spoke up.


    He looked at Qiu Tu with an unfazed demeanor and slowly said, "But, this position is not given to you for nothing. You have to do something for me."


    Qiu Tu thought to himself: Here it comes, here it comes, it''s happening.


    He rallied his full attention, eager to know what Yan Chen intended to have him do.


    Then he heard Yan Chen say, "Since Qin Shuman is a thorn planted by the City Hall by my side, it seems the Qin Family must have already betrayed me."


    "So... go and pluck it out for me."


    "Within 7 days, I want to see evidence sufficient to destroy the Qin Family laid out on my desk."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    At that moment, upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, the only thought in Qiu Tu''s mind was: What? Me?


    He felt like the flabbergasted Bumbler in Journey to the West.


    What is the Qin Family? One of the top three Major Clans in Xinjie City! Their family business spans across numerous domains, from illegal medical practices to underground brothels, from casinos to usury¡ªall in the gray area.


    Well before Xinjie City was designated as a Planning Area, the Qin Family was already one of the dominant forces, not only nurturing over a thousand underlings but also armed to the teeth with gunmen and well-trained private soldiers...


    What kind of evidence could possibly bring down such high-level forces in the nascent, stabilizing Xinjie City?


    Murder? Arson?


    Stop kidding... In this Cataclysm-ridden chaos, which clan hasn''t killed some people? Which hasn''t lit a few fires for entertainment?


    How could they possibly be brought down!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt utterly bewildered.


    Meanwhile, Jia Shu, who had been standing beside Yan Chen, adjusted his gold-framed glasses and began to speak...

 Chapter 13 - 13 The Lions Mouth Opens Wide

    He looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile and said, "Qiu Tu, don''t worry too much about this mission."


    "You are now a part of our Political Department, and we will certainly not let you fight this battle alone. We will try our best to create some conditions for you and offer some support."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu also came back to reality.


    Right... with such a powerful force as the Qin Family, how could one possibly bring them down alone?


    Then... he heard Jia Shu say with a chuckle, "When the time comes, I will have the Bureau Chief arrange for Miss Shuman to return home for a visit."


    "As the head of her security team, you will accompany her to stay with the Qin Family, and then start your investigation."


    "With Miss Shuman''s trust and high regard for you, I believe you can dig out the secrets of the Qin Family smoothly and then complete the mission."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, a jolt went through Qiu Tu''s heart.


    At this moment, Jia Shu continued, "Moreover, I can point out a direction for your investigation."


    "You reported to the Bureau Chief earlier that you suspected Miss Shuman was one of the City Hall''s people, but this suspicion has no evidence."


    "However, Miss Shuman''s connection with the United Front is something you''ve witnessed yourself."


    "So... you might have guessed Miss Shuman''s camp wrong."


    "Perhaps she and the Qin Family are not City Hall people but supporters of an anti-government organization!" By the end, Jia Shu''s gaunt face revealed a cruel smile, the transparent lenses of his glasses flashing cold light.


    "Investigate in this direction, and you won''t go wrong!"


    At that moment, Qiu Tu felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over him, leaving him thoroughly chilled.


    Cruel! Too cruel!


    This move of going with the flow had blocked all his retreats and excuses!


    He had "personally witnessed" Qin Shuman "bribing" him and had "personally witnessed" Qin Shuman commanding the United Front to help him gain fame and fortune. Whether Qin Shuman and the Qin Family were City Hall people was debatable, but they definitely had ties with the United Front!


    And since Qin Shuman did not avoid him when colluding with the United Front, he should be able to easily find the evidence of collusion between the Qin Family and the United Front upon investigation!


    While murder and arson might not bring down the Qin Family, collusion with the anti-government armed forces¡ªa grave crime¡ªwould surely suffice!


    So... he either had to produce irrefutable evidence of the Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front, withstand the Qin Family''s retaliation, destroy the entire Qin Family and completely prove himself.


    Or... the lies would fall apart by themselves.


    This was a pincer tactic that left no way out.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s emotions rapidly withdrew, and he forced himself to calm down.


    Perhaps his mindset had shifted, but he felt that the previously bright study seemed much darker again.


    Darkness closed in from all directions, and only the circle of pale yellow light cast by the lamp on the mahogany desk held its ground, struggling against the gloom.


    Yan Chen and Jia Shu, either seated or standing, watched him from within the darkness, one expressionless, the other with a smile that was not quite a smile, making his scalp tingle...


    While suppressing the restlessness in his heart, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, swiftly considering his options.


    Time ticked by, second by second...


    After a moment, he finally came to a decision...


    He intentionally furrowed his brows and said, "Officer, I think the investigative direction you''ve pointed out is absolutely correct."


    "But... isn''t it too hasty?"


    "Miss Shuman just bought me off today, and immediately after that, the Bureau Chief is arranging her to go back to the Qin Family for a visit. I''ve also been promoted and am accompanying her back to the Qin Family."


    "Such an obvious arrangement, practically writing ''conspiracy'' on our faces¡ªthe Qin Family will surely see through it."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with interest, "So your suggestion is...?"


    Qiu Tu spoke seriously, "I think we shouldn''t have the Bureau Chief arrange her to visit home, but rather she should take the initiative to ask for it!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the eyes behind Jia Shu''s glasses flickered slightly as if he were pondering.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t give him time to think and directly voiced his own thoughts.


    He pointed at the Aurora Stone on the table and said, "Although I don''t know the purpose of this stone, seeing how Miss Shuman, the Bureau Chief, and you, sir, treat it with such solemnity, it must be a treasure that interests everyone."


    "I hope the department can provide me with more treasures like this and inform me of the relevant intelligence."


    "Afterwards, I will take these treasures and intelligence to meet Miss Shuman, telling her I have made significant gains and want to report to her and have her arrange my next move."


    "But it''s impossible to discuss such secretive matters in the Bureau Chief''s villa, so I will suggest that she take the initiative to ask the Bureau Chief to return home to visit relatives. The reason will be that she was frightened in this attack."


    "That way, everything will be completely logical, and will not only not arouse Miss Shuman''s and the Qin Family''s suspicions, but Miss Shuman and the Qin Family will even trust me more because I brought so many Letters of Challenge."


    "I can also investigate the evidence of the Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front more quickly."


    As Qiu Tu finished speaking, the room fell into silence.


    Yan Chen and Jia Shu both fell silent...


    Did Qiu Tu''s words make sense? They did.


    Was the plan more refined? Indeed, it was.


    But... both of them just felt that something wasn''t quite right.


    Why should the Cataclysm Materials that were just acquired and not yet warmed up be returned, and even more be given to the other party?


    This... why does it feel like a scam?


    Could it be that Qiu Tu is planning to abscond with the "treasure"?


    After quietly contemplating for a while, Yan Chen spoke.


    He gazed deeply at Qiu Tu before saying hoarsely, "Qiu Tu, this treasure is called the Aurora Stone, and although it is not particularly valuable, it is a controlled item."


    "Even I cannot simply take it out of the department."


    "So while your plan is good, but... I still need to think it over carefully."


    After saying that, he paused, waved his hand, "For tonight, you should go back and rest." S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Tomorrow, I will have someone send you a response."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, somewhat surprised.


    He wasn''t wrong; Qiu Tu''s plan was actually a checkmate, intending to trap him deeply and completely disorder the situation, then to look for a new way to break the game.


    He even considered, if unable to find a solution, to flee far away with the spoils of Cataclysm Materials and a beauty.


    Yet, to his surprise, he didn''t agree?


    This instantly deepened Qiu Tu''s understanding of the value of the Aurora Stone.


    ''If the Aurora Stone is truly that valuable, then Yan Chen would never be willing to give up on this lead, right?''


    ''So... can I play an even bigger game?''


    As these thoughts flowed through his mind, Qiu Tu seemed to have found the key to breaking the game...


    In this way, with the three of them each harboring their own schemes, Qiu Tu was escorted out of the study by Jia Shu.


    Once out of the study, Qiu Tu took the initiative to salute and bid farewell to Jia Shu. Jia Shu didn''t say much, only patting Qiu Tu on the shoulder with a smile that was not quite a smile, saying, "Not bad, very good indeed."


    And as Qiu Tu left, he consistently felt as though there was a gaze following him, like a haunting presence behind him...


    That sensation persisted until Qiu Tu turned a corner and it finally disappeared.


    When that sensation had completely vanished, Qiu Tu slowly let out a breath of relief, and it was at this moment, he noticed the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision had also begun to change slowly...

 Chapter 14 - 14 Blue Moon

    Qiu Tu''s steps faltered slightly, but the next second, they resumed their normal pace.


    While continuing to walk without any outward change, he glanced toward the upper left corner of his vision.


    Similar to last time, several new prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Congratulations on successfully navigating the recent crisis, but you have also drawn Yan Chen''s attention."


    "He has developed a certain curiosity about your changes, secrets, and the lies you''ve concocted."


    "Fortunately, he is in the midst of a massive storm vortex and does not wish to invest too much energy in someone as weak as you for the time being."


    "Cherish the calm before the storm, for you have only 24 hours of rest time...."


    As the prompts ended, the hourglass slowly transformed into a treasure chest. Unlike the treasure chest that opened directly last time, this chest turned gray and had a 24-hour countdown timer on it.


    [23:59:59]


    Qiu Tu: ....


    The good news: There was no new countdown, meaning he was at least safe for the night.


    The bad news: The reward would have to wait 24 hours, and this time, he made it through not because Yan Chen trusted him, but because he had caught Yan Chen''s interest.


    Plainly speaking, his lies did not fool Yan Chen, but the Aurora Stone had successfully piqued Yan Chen''s greed, preventing him from making a move against him.


    Although he had anticipated this possibility during the last gamble, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a bit disappointed: Having such a clever boss takes away the sense of achievement, doesn''t it?


    He still preferred the simple mode and didn''t enjoy walking a tightrope like this.


    If only he could draw a "Difficulty Reduction" Golden Finger next time....


    While envisioning such future possibilities in his heart, Qiu Tu walked outside.


    Stepping out of the villa, the moonlight was like water, draping the tranquil night in a mysterious and enchanting blue veil.


    After the Cataclysm, the moon turned azure blue because the Earth''s atmosphere was filled with tiny particles slightly larger than 0.7 micrometers (the size of red waves). These fine particles scattered the red light, hence the blue moon seen by those below the surface.


    ''What a severely polluted world....'' Qiu Tu sighed internally as he strode through the garden.


    In the garden, various flowers were faintly visible under the Blue Moon, emitting a light fragrance as they swayed gently in the evening breeze, like whispering sprites. However, Qiu Tu, preoccupied with his thoughts, had no interest in admiring them.


    Leaving the garden and reaching the guard post, Qiu Tu saw two familiar figures crouching by the road¡ªAh-Tai and Eagle. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shoulder to shoulder, they both had their hands crossed, squatting like oversized penguins by the roadside. Ah-Tai had a wild grass in his mouth, chewing it as he looked up, while Eagle was vigilantly scanning the surroundings out of the corner of his eye.


    Perhaps because the postures and actions of both were so bizarre, the detective from the Security Section at the guard post was staring at them intently. They probably would have been driven away if not for their detective uniforms.


    Eagle was the first to notice Qiu Tu''s emergence. He gently nudged Ah-Tai and hurriedly stood up to greet him, "Brother Tu."


    Ah-Tai, on the other hand, was much more upbeat. Seeing Qiu Tu, he spat the wild grass from his mouth with a "tui~" and shouted as he ran over, "Bro! You''re out!"


    Watching the two figures¡ªone tall, one short¡ªcharging towards him, Qiu Tu was initially taken aback, then a warm surge filled his heart....


    .....


    Meanwhile, in Yan Chen''s study.


    The lighting was as dim as ever, and Yan Chen was still obscured in the darkness.


    "Have you checked all the people around him?"


    Sitting opposite him, Jia Shu smiled and said, "Checked. They''re all nothing but riffraff and hooligans. They couldn''t possibly have had access to Cataclysm Materials."


    "He used your name to place these people as temporary detectives in the grassroots Public Security Office, so it wasn''t hard to check, and the accuracy of the information is quite reliable."


    Yan Chen gave a sardonic laugh, his voice hoarse as he said, "He sure has a sense of loyalty."


    Having made this remark, Yan Chen fell silent, and the room slowly quieted down.


    After a while, Yan Chen spoke again, "So, the only way he could have come into contact with an Aurora Stone is through the Qin Family?"


    Jia Shu nodded, "In theory, that''s how it should be. But... my intuition tells me it''s not."


    Yan Chen also shook his head, "I also feel it''s not."


    He toyed with the Aurora Stone in his hand, "That kid thinks he can easily fool everyone with a story as bizarre as a fantasy. He''s deluding himself."


    "He definitely has a secret, a big one at that."


    "But I don''t have time to pay attention to such a minor character right now."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Shu tentatively asked, "Then... should I just take him into custody?"


    "You should know my methods, no one can last a night, can they?" He made a gesture of torture.


    Yan Chen hesitated for a second but ultimately shook his head,


    "No need. If he was able to obtain an Aurora Stone, there must be someone behind him."


    "Lately, City Hall has been keeping a close eye on me; I don''t want to stir up unnecessary trouble."


    As he spoke, he paused, then continued, "Let him and the Qin Family dog eat dog."


    "He wants to bring the ''Letter of Challenge'' to the Qin Family, doesn''t he? Then give it to him."


    "Cataclysm Materials are controlled resources; we can''t give those to him."


    "But didn''t we arrest a Pharmacist selling contraband potions on Xiafang Street today?"


    As he spoke, Yan Chen put the Aurora Stone, the gold bars, and Silver Yuan back into the cloth bag and tossed it to Jia Shu,


    "Arrange for someone to bring out that Pharmacist tomorrow and send him over with these things."


    "A Pharmacist capable of making Cataclysmic Potions is worth far more than some Cataclysm Resources."


    "I want to see how he''s going to play this act..."


    .....


    [12:09:57 (Treasure Chest)]


    Early the next morning, Qiu Tu was awoken by a "thud thud thud" of knocking at his door.


    He yawned as he climbed out of bed, then kicked aside Ah-Tai and Eagle, who were sprawled beside him haphazardly.


    As someone who had lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu hadn''t had close friends for a long while. Plus, having just gotten through a crisis the day before, he needed an outlet. So he had pulled the two of them into a night of drinking until late.


    All three of them drank too much, so they simply decided to sleep over at Qiu Tu''s place.


    After shoving the two aside, Qiu Tu yawned and went to open the door.


    As the door opened, there stood a detective in uniform.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he snapped to attention with a "thwack!" and saluted, "Good morning, sir!"


    Qiu Tu reflexively returned the salute, then belatedly asked, "You are...?"


    The detective at the door answered formally, "Sir, I am Li Ke, a Third-Level Detective from the Administrative Office, sent by our superior to deliver your new uniform and epaulets."


    With that, he waved his hand behind him, and suddenly a temporary detective appeared beside him, holding a set of black detective''s uniforms.


    Black was the exclusive color of the Political Department, representing the official status of a [Secret Police].


    On the uniform lay a pair of epaulets, studded with three gold stars, signifying the rank of a First Level Detective.


    Though Qiu Tu had already received Yan Chen''s promise the previous night, when all of it was laid out before him, his heartbeat still unavoidably quickened.


    And just then, "Brother Tu, what''s going on?" came Ah-Tai''s inquiring voice from behind him, "Who''s here?"


    But in the next second, the inquiry turned into an exclamation, "Holy shit! A First Level Detective from the Political Department?"


    Turning around, Qiu Tu saw Ah-Tai and Eagle standing agape at the doorway.....

 Chapter 15 - 15: Hold Ones Head High

    Both of them were obviously awakened by the noise at the door, so at the moment, their hair was a mess like an uncombed chicken''s nest, and they were only wearing big underwear, completely disheveled.


    But the detective outside the door was not at all surprised. In this world, survival itself is a difficult task, and aside from the very few powerful elites, how many people pay attention to the quality of life?


    So he reached out to take the temporary detective''s uniform and epaulets, and handed them to Qiu Tu with both hands, "Commander!"


    Once Qiu Tu had taken the uniform, the detective did not leave. He took out a slip of paper from his pocket and once again offered it respectfully to Qiu Tu with both hands.


    "Commander! This is my contact information."


    "If there''s any way you can make use of me, please feel free to command, and I will be at your disposal at any time!"


    Then, he repeated his own name, "My name is Li Ke."


    After speaking, he gave Qiu Tu a standard salute and then left promptly without any hesitation.


    Watching Li Ke''s retreating figure, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered slightly, and then a smile curved at the corner of his mouth.


    Indeed... intelligent people are everywhere.


    Yesterday, in order for Ah-Tai to fall into the Special Service Department, he had continuously tried to gain favor in Fang Ming''s presence, scheming.


    And today, having been promoted to a First Level Detective in the Political Department, someone immediately started to offer their allegiance actively.


    Indeed, a First Level Detective, particularly from a powerful department, is very much sought after.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tucked Li Ke''s note into his pocket. In the future, if a suitable opportunity arose, he would not mind giving this smart detective a chance.


    Turning back, Ah-Tai had already come over, looking around dumbfounded, hardly believing as he said, "Bro, did you really become a First Level Detective? And entered the Political Department?"


    While closing the door, Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "Yes."


    Ah-Tai yelled excitedly, "Damn, I was worried about you getting into trouble last night!"


    "That''s why I dragged Eagle to squat at the garden entrance, planning to rush in and save you if you didn''t come out!"


    "And now, not only did you have no trouble, but you also got promoted?"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu laughed, "Rush in to save me? With that little hammer of yours?"


    "Do you know how many detectives are inside, how many guns?"


    "I bet you would have been shot dead by random gunfire before you could even reach me."


    Ah-Tai scratched his head naively upon hearing this, "But I don''t care! Anyway, I was going to save you!"


    "From the moment you picked me up when I was little, my life has been yours!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered, inevitably remembering the past with Ah-Tai...


    That day, what Qiu Tu said to Fang Ming was indeed half-true, half-false. It was true that Ah-Tai had been involved with gangs and was blacklisted for resisting the military.


    But what was false... was not that Qiu Tu had been looked after by Ah-Tai''s parents, but rather that the two of them, or perhaps their group of more than a dozen people, had always depended on each other for survival.


    Qiu Tu was an orphan of chaotic times, surviving on scavenging as a child. At 6, he found the dying Ah-Tai in a pile of garbage, at 8 found Eagle, at 10 found Ah-Kun...


    In the chaos of the Cataclysm, unsure of the next day''s survival, the children banded together for warmth. Gradually, their group grew in number and eventually expanded to more than twenty people.


    Later, as they grew older, they were discovered and absorbed by local gangs, but their bonds didn''t weaken, and they still helped each other.


    Afterward, the Sanctuary listed Xinjie City as a Planning Area and the military came in early to clear out the gangs. The underground organizations were eradicated like bubbles popped.


    Some of the youths from their small group were killed, some were blacklisted, and some ran away.


    In the end, with the establishment of Xinjie City, Qiu Tu, because of his decent looks, healthy body with no criminal record, and having learned to drive in the gang, successfully became a detective and gradually brought back his brothers one by one, finding them proper arrangements... S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That''s why he and Ah-Tai shared a life-and-death friendship, that''s why Ah-Tai could so sincerely say, "Even if I get killed by stray bullets, I must save Qiu Tu..."


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked deeply at Ah-Tai, then patted his shoulder heavily.


    Subordinates like Li Ke, who cozied up for personal gain, were needed by Qiu Tu; brothers like Ah-Tai were even more necessary.


    Just as the great man had said, "If you want to achieve something, you should have as many friends as possible and as few enemies as possible."


    Only by uniting all possible forces can you grow stronger and create glory!


    ...


    After changing into his uniform and donning his new epaulettes, Qiu Tu received a communication from Jia Shu.


    In the communication, Jia Shu asked him to visit the Garden Villa for a task assignment.


    Qiu Tu guessed that it must be that Yan Chen had made up her mind.


    So, he explained briefly to Ah-Tai and Eagle, then went downstairs, casually bought a bun, and while eating, he boarded a city bus powered by horses heading toward Yan Chen''s villa.


    As for Ah-Tai and Eagle, the two weren''t idle either; they got ready and strutted off to their jobs at the Old Alley Street Public Security Office with a bit of swagger.


    They could become temporary detectives all because Qiu Tu once pulled Yan Chen''s rank. At first, the office valued them highly and entrusted them with important tasks.


    But later, when they found that Yan Chen apparently didn''t care about them at all and never mentioned them, the office gradually came to understand the situation.


    Thus, they were gradually marginalized and became the lowest rung in the office.


    But now it was different. Qiu Tu had been promoted to a First Level Detective in the Political Department, and his brothers would rise with the tide, strutting with renewed spirit...


    That''s why they were eager to announce this good news at the office...


    Glory in the evening, gone by morning? No such thing! In a post-apocalyptic world, if you don''t show your strength, everyone will feel bold enough to crap on you!


    You have to become stronger and tell everyone you''re strong, then others will not dare to bully you!


    [11:27:03 (Treasure Chest)]


    ....


    After transferring buses twice and walking for more than ten minutes, Qiu Tu finally arrived at the City Center Garden again.


    After such a long journey, Qiu Tu had only one thought: I really need to get a car! Otherwise, it''s just too time-consuming!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu confirmed his identity with the sentry, then stepped into the garden.


    Yan Chen indeed had a taste for living. The garden was beautiful at night, but even more so during the day.


    Neatly pruned shrubs, trimmed greenery, and sparkling fountains under the sunlight could make one temporarily forget this was a world after the Cataclysm.


    Indeed, no matter the world or era, the lives of the elite are always incomparably superior.


    "Qiu Tu?"


    As Qiu Tu was secretly reflecting, he suddenly heard Fang Ming''s voice.


    Looking up, Qiu Tu saw Fang Ming leading a team escorting a young girl out.


    The girl looked young, no more than fifteen or sixteen, with three stripes of red, yellow, and blue paint on her face. Her eyes were sharp yet slightly immature in their ferocity, like a wolf cub that might turn vicious and bite at any second.


    Qiu Tu glanced at the girl and asked curiously, "What did she do to necessitate the Special Service Department to escort her personally?"


    Fang Ming let out a sigh and said with a smile, "She''s a black market Pharmacist we caught in Xiafang Street yesterday. It seems the higher-ups are very concerned about this, they specifically asked us to escort her for interrogation."


    "We just finished the interrogation, and we''re now ready to take her away."

 Chapter 16 - 16: The Young Female Pharmacist

    "Pharmacist?" Upon hearing this title, Qiu Tu''s eyes blinked, and then his gaze fell on the girl.


    Perhaps because she heard the two people discussing her, the girl bared her teeth at Qiu Tu in a fierce expression.


    But unfortunately... she was too young, and with her two small canines showing, Qiu Tu only saw cuteness.


    "Xiafang Street... Xiafang Street..." After mumbling the name "Xiafang Street" twice, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered why it sounded so familiar.


    Wasn''t this the task that Yan Chen had asked him to handle yesterday, which he had turned down?


    So, this girl was the criminal he was originally supposed to take away?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a sense of fate, so he casually asked, "By the way, where is she being sent to?"


    Perhaps Qiu Tu''s question was a bit sensitive, so Fang Ming had a hard time answering it.


    Just then, in the midst of this awkward moment, Fang Ming suddenly noticed Qiu Tu''s new uniform.


    He was initially stunned, then he pointed to the new uniform on Qiu Tu and asked in surprise, "You were transferred to the Political Department?"


    Qiu Tu merely nodded lightly.


    Fang Ming glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulets, and the next second, he was even more astonished, "First Level Detective? You got promoted too?"


    Qiu Tu nodded lightly again.


    Fang Ming opened his mouth as if to say something but couldn''t find the words, and after several attempts, he just managed to utter, "Awesome."


    After understanding Qiu Tu''s new position, he didn''t beat around the bush and directly answered Qiu Tu''s question, "She will be temporarily detained at the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    The Political Department has the authority to monitor all departments, so his response to Qiu Tu''s inquiry was completely in line with regulations.


    "Old Alley Street...?" Hearing this answer, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then thoughtful....


    Like that, the two chatted a bit more before their conversation ended with the girl''s shouting, "Are you guys leaving or not!" "You''re really unprofessional!" "Don''t criminals have rights!"


    After bidding farewell to Fang Ming, Qiu Tu entered the villa and, following the directions in Jia Shu''s message, quickly found a flight of stone steps. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He followed the stone steps downward, and at the end was a massive oak door adorned with iron decorations, ancient and solemn.


    Qiu Tu stopped, lifted his hand to the door knocker, and rapped on the door, which soon conveyed Jia Shu''s voice from inside, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed open the door and entered, discovering a huge underground chamber.


    The walls were made of rough-cut stone; in the center stood an oak workbench marked with dried blood and knife carvings, surrounded by all kinds of blades and torture instruments.


    A girl covered in scars and showing no signs of life was bound to the oak table, while Jia Shu, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, stood next to her, with a gloved left hand and a sharp scalpel in his right, dissecting her body.


    The blade moved along the bones, flesh turned inside out, organs exposed. His movements were so precise they were nearly reverent, as if conducting a mute ceremony....


    The chandelier swung, casting faint and harsh shafts of light, dividing light and shadow into a strange geometric pattern, with a faint scent of rust and undried blood lingering in the air.


    Even someone like Qiu Tu, accustomed to grand scenes from a former life, was almost unable to withstand such a hellish setting.


    After a while, "What a pity..." arose an enigmatic sigh from Jia Shu in the chamber.


    Then, he set aside the scalpel, removed his gloves, and washed his hands in a nearby basin.


    The clear water gradually stained red, as if it were a basin of blood...


    He said faintly, "This girl''s parents were once junior managers at the City Hall; she could have had a bright future, could have gone to school with other managers'' children, played together...."


    "And then after growing up, have a sweet romance, get married, have children, and lead a plain but happy life...."


    "But during yesterday''s investigation, we discovered that her parents secretly contacted and assisted the anti-government armed forces."


    "Thus, a flower that was once vibrant simply withered away...."


    Although Jia Shu''s words seemed to carry regret, when combined with his indifferent tone and the fact that he personally tortured and executed the girl, Qiu Tu just felt a chill permeating into his heart.


    After indifferently recapping the girl''s situation, Jia Shu picked up a towel, wiped his hands, and then folded it neatly.


    Then, he walked to the wall, opened a cabinet, and took out a familiar cloth package, tossing it to Qiu Tu from across the room,


    "Did you see that pharmacist on your way here?"


    Qiu Tu paused, then nodded, "I saw her."


    A meaningful smile appeared on the corners of Jia Shu''s mouth, "The Bureau Chief agreed to your plan but made a small modification."


    "Cataclysm materials are controlled items, and we can''t just take them out to assist you with your mission. So, that black market pharmacist is for you."


    "She not only knows how to make the Cataclysmic Potion but also has black market connections. Her value vastly exceeds that of mere Cataclysm materials. Enough to satisfy the Qin Family."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a surge in his heart.


    The value of the pharmacist indeed outweighed that of the Cataclysm materials, but... it was not as convenient as the Cataclysm materials.


    With the Cataclysm materials in hand, he could just run away if things turned south.


    But a living person, a girl of fifteen or sixteen at that, would undoubtedly make it much more difficult and risky to escape with her.


    Did Yan Chen guess that he might attempt to flee and intentionally arrange this encumbrance?


    As Qiu Tu''s brain raced, he didn''t forget to keep up his act with Jia Shu, "Cataclysmic Potion? Pharmacist? What are all these?"


    Jia Shu adjusted his gold-framed glasses, speaking indifferently, "You''ll find all the answers to these questions in the material inside the cloth package. Take your time to read through it."


    "Right, remember to destroy it and keep it confidential after reading."


    Having said that, he looked deeply at Qiu Tu, and said lightly, "You wouldn''t want to know the consequences of a leak..."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    After warning Qiu Tu, Jia Shu waved his hand in dismissal, "Now, go read the material."


    "Once you are done, remember to find Qin Shuman and persuade her to return to the Qin Family."


    "The Bureau Chief''s patience is limited."


    "Yes, sir!" Hearing this, Qiu Tu stood at attention and saluted precisely.


    After saluting, Qiu Tu took the cloth package and stepped out of the underground chamber.


    What he didn''t know was that behind him, Jia Shu''s gaze followed his departing figure like a shadow, the desire hidden behind his glasses nearly spilling out from the depths of his eyes....


    [9:03:18 (Treasure Chest)]


    .....


    As he exited the basement, the fresh scent of soil and fallen leaves rushed to meet him, starkly contrasting the suffocating stench of blood from the basement.


    Qiu Tu took a deep breath of the chilly air, looked up at the overcast sky, and stepped into the mansion.


    Guided by a servant, he sat down in a reception room, ready to inspect the intelligence on supernatural powers provided by Jia Shu.


    This information would be crucial for his plans moving forward...

 Chapter 17 - 17 Cataclysm Awakening

    Sitting down on the sofa, Qiu Tu opened the cloth bag.


    The first thing that caught his eye was a document so thin it only had two pages.


    He set the document aside and checked the other items in the cloth bag.


    One Aurora Stone, three Little Goldfish, and twelve Silver Yuan. These were all things Qiu Tu had given to Yan Chen yesterday, and now they were returned to their original owner. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Satisfied, Qiu Tu tucked the assets that his dozen or so brothers had scraped together into his bosom, and then he picked up the document he had placed aside to start reading.


    The document was brief and rudimentary at best, but it was enough for Qiu Tu to glimpse a corner of the supernatural powers of this world...


    However, the more he read through the document, the deeper his frown became, until at last he put the document down with a face so grave it seemed water could drip from it.


    "If this document is true, then I''ve encountered the worst possible scenario..." he thought.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also recalled the contents of the document:


    According to the records in the document, the thirty years following the Cataclysm had transformed the entire world beyond recognition. A weird and mysterious force had quietly awakened, reshaping the veins of the world and the forms of life.


    Among them, what was most hair-raising was the unusual mutations starting to occur among the creatures of the natural world:


    For instance, the English ivy inexplicably began to swell and twist, its thickness rivaling the water pipes of the abandoned cities;


    The common weeds by the roadside seemed normal in daylight, but under the moonlight they became as sharp as knives, radiating a chilling edge;


    The ants, so small as to be unnoticed by most, had now grown as large as hounds of the night, wandering through the ruins and emitting deep, nightmarish growls...


    At that time, humanity was struggling for survival and had no time to take heed of these bizarre life phenomena.


    It was not until 15 years ago, when the first Sanctuary was erected and the elite of humanity gradually gathered there and began to venture into the outside world, that they were shocked to find the world had fallen into an even more bizarre state.


    The mutated animals and plants not only saw significant enhancements in strength, speed, intelligence, and aggressiveness, but some individuals even acquired inconceivable abilities...


    Humans speculated that all of this originated from the unprecedented Cataclysm, and thus the phenomenon was dubbed "Cataclysm Awakening."


    Yet, what was utterly puzzling was that the entire world''s biological community had undergone the Cataclysm Awakening, but humans alone did not show any change.


    Thus, two hypotheses gradually emerged among humans regarding this phenomenon.


    One was that humans might also be awakening, but due to the long life cycle and weak reproduction abilities, it would take several more generations before naturally born humans with mysterious powers would emerge.


    The other was that humans were already at a high level of life and the Cataclysm could not fully awaken them. Thus, humans had to actively steal the mutated powers from other creatures to truly realize their own awakening.


    These two hypotheses caused a continuous debate during the early days of the Sanctuary.


    That debate was temporarily put to rest 13 years ago when a Pharmacist accidentally created a Cataclysmic Potion and successfully gave the test subject some bizarre power.


    Accompanying the birth of the Cataclysmic Potion, the value of the Cataclysm Materials from various mutated creatures began to soar, and professions such as Pharmacists started to rise rapidly...


    If the document had only recorded up to here, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows might not have been so tightly knit.


    What truly troubled him was the latter half of the document.


    According to the records, humans couldn''t attain mysterious powers with a 100% success rate after using the Cataclysmic Potion. On the contrary, the failure rate was over 80%.


    And once it failed, those who took the potion would go through irreversible catastrophic mutations, turning into monsters with astounding destructive powers but no spiritual wisdom.


    Even for the lucky few who came through, the direction of the Cataclysm Awakening was not fixed but varied from person to person.


    This meant that apart from the moment of awakening, no one could predict how far they''d venture on an unknown path....


    "Damn it.... I originally thought I could change my fate with supernatural power."


    "But not only is the success rate low, the supernatural powers in this world are also of a peculiar kind."


    "Who knows if such powers could have any side effects?"


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu took a match out of his pocket.


    "Scratch!" Accompanied by the sound of the match striking, a faint flame ignited the two thin sheets of information.


    Watching the information slowly burn to ashes in the dancing flames, Qiu Tu also fell into silent contemplation....


    "The path of resolving crises with supernatural powers is temporarily blocked."


    "Yan Chen might possess some strange supernatural power, and running away without a plan is tantamount to suicide...."


    "So, it looks like I have to make a trip to the Qin Family after all..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s eyes grew somber,


    "However.... this might also be a good opportunity to interrogate that young pharmacist."


    "Perhaps.... the information obtained from her might offer some unique insights?"


    A moment later, the documents had burned completely. Qiu Tu stomped out the last ember and glanced at the Treasure Chest''s timer in the upper left corner, which showed just over 8 hours remaining. Then he got up to look for Qin Shuman....


    He did not have much time left....


    [8:27:39 (Treasure Chest)]


    ....


    Following the maid, Qiu Tu ascended two winding staircases and turned down two dim corridors before arriving at the door to Qin Shuman''s boudoir.


    At the door to Qin Shuman''s boudoir, the maid took the initiative to step forward and tapped lightly on the door.


    The next second, a voice as pleasing as a nightingale''s sang from inside, "Come in."


    Pushing open the door, they entered to see Qin Shuman in a pink cheongsam with slits, seated by the window. While sipping tea, she gazed out melancholically, resembling a canary yearning for freedom.


    "Miss Shuman, Agent Qiu is looking for you." The maid courteously bowed towards Qin Shuman''s back and spoke softly.


    Upon hearing the maid''s words, Qin Shuman quickly set down her tea cup, turned around with a look of joy that she could not hide, and exclaimed, "Qiu... Agent Qiu, you''ve come?"


    As there was someone else present, Qiu Tu did not behave too affectionately. He just smiled and nodded, "Yes, Miss Shuman, I have something important to discuss with you."


    After speaking, he gave Qin Shuman a meaningful look.


    Qin Shuman understood immediately. She elegantly stood up and then demurely said to the maid at the door, "You may leave us. I want to chat privately with Agent Qiu for a moment."


    "Yes, Miss Shuman," the maid replied, curtsying lightly before she turned and left the room. But after reaching the doorway, she intentionally left the door slightly ajar.


    Qiu Tu glanced back but didn''t comment. He gestured to Qin Shuman, and only then did he walk over to her side....


    Approaching Qin Shuman, the faint, cherry blossom-like graceful fragrance unique to her wafted over to him....

 Chapter 18 - 18: Entering the Qin Family

    Inhaling that familiar body scent, Qiu Tu''s heart fluttered.


    He looked down, and into his sight came the swan-like slender neck and full curves of Qin Shuman''s chest.


    The cheongsam outlined her figure just perfectly, making her already graceful posture appear even more exquisite and delicate.


    It also made Qiu Tu involuntarily recall the tenderness and charm she exuded in his embrace.


    At this moment, Qin Shuman was unaware that Qiu Tu''s mind had wandered because of her allure. She reached out to grab Qiu Tu''s sleeve, her eyes swirling with a mix of nervousness and worry.


    She asked softly, "What''s the situation now?"


    "I was so scared last night, I didn''t close my eyes at all, waking up in fear every time I fell asleep."


    "I had several dreams, all about Yan Chen trying to kill us."


    By the end, her eyes had reddened again, and she said with a choked voice, "I''m really scared...."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu looked deeply into her eyes, carefully discerning her expression....


    There were no traces to be seen, truly no flaws to be found.


    But Qiu Tu''s intuition was telling him there was something off about Qin Shuman.


    It felt like the sensation of encountering one of his own kind....


    However, his Crisis Intuition had not been triggered, suggesting that Qin Shuman posed no immediate threat to him, which is why he was willing to keep cooperating with her.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu reassured her with a gentle voice, "Don''t worry, everything has been resolved."


    With that, Qiu Tu took Qin Shuman by the hand and walked to the window. The sunlight quietly bathed them both, as he softly briefed her on the events of the past two days.


    Of course... he deliberately avoided the topics of the Cloned Female Body and the Aurora Stone. He simply said that he had spotted loopholes in Yan Chen''s words with just a few comments and eventually managed to persuade Yan Chen.


    This, naturally, significantly diminished the truth of the matter.


    So, after listening to his explanation, Qin Shuman looked at him with a doubtful expression, "Is it... really that simple?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, it''s that simple."


    He said, "Now, you just need to communicate with Yan Chen according to the plan, and you''ll be able to leave here."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment but finally nodded.


    She let go of Qiu Tu''s hand, bit her lip gently, and sashaying like a willow in the breeze, slowly walked towards the bed.


    Her figure was slender, her legs long, the pink slit cheongsam slightly swaying with her steps, flashes of her pale skin blooming like a startled swan, and as she moved, the tassels of the cheongsam gently swayed, enhancing her elegant charm.


    ''This woman is seducing me....''


    For some reason, this thought popped into Qiu Tu''s mind.


    His gaze sharpened, continuing to observe Qin Shuman.


    He then saw Qin Shuman walk to the bed, bend over slightly, her full buttocks arching as she picked up the landline phone and dialed a number.


    After a moment, the phone connected. Qin Shuman straightened her back and said quietly, "Hello, Secretary Bai, this is Qin Shuman. I would like to speak with Director Yan."


    Then, Qin Shuman waited a while before Yan Chen came on the line.


    Thereupon, she parted her rosy lips and repeated the wish to return to the Qin Family as Qiu Tu had taught her.


    This was exactly what Yan Chen was willing to approve, so Yan Chen simply responded with an indifferent "Hmm" before agreeing to it.


    After hanging up the communicator, Qin Shuman, like a startled rabbit, patted her heavy chest, looking at Qiu Tu with a face full of surprise, "It really worked!"


    "He agreed, and said he would have someone take care of it."


    Just as Qiu Tu was about to nod, his worn-out communicator buzzed to life.


    When Qiu Tu picked it up, he saw the words "Secretary Bai" displayed on the screen.


    Secretary Bai is Yan Chen''s dedicated secretary, mainly responsible for arranging Yan Chen''s official activities, receiving important visitors, and coordinating work with various departments of the Investigation Bureau.


    Though a secretary by title, his position was not low, especially since he was also the head of the Administrative Office, making him Qiu Tu''s immediate superior.


    The reason Qiu Tu was able to hitch his wagon to Yan Chen''s star also had to do with his appreciation and recommendation.


    It was just unclear whether the affair between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman would affect his standing with Yan Chen.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu answered the call.


    Upon connection, Secretary Bai''s demeanor showed no change, still approachable with a hint of appreciation.


    He first briefly congratulated Qiu Tu on his promotion and transfer, then relayed Yan Chen''s orders.


    It was almost identical to what the three had discussed the night before; Qiu Tu, as Qin Shuman''s personal bodyguard, was in full charge of arranging her trip home to visit her family.


    What Qiu Tu hadn''t expected was that Yan Chen had appointed other members for this security team as well.


    Responsible for Qin Shuman''s safety was the seventh sub-team of the Special Service Department, where Fang Ming served.


    Looking after Qin Shuman''s daily needs was her personal maid and the previous informant, Cui Lan.


    It seemed that Yan Chen had wrapped up all the participants in this incident and sent them off to the Qin Family in one fell swoop.


    It looked like she intended to solve all related issues at the Qin Family in one go¡­


    With that thought, Qiu Tu had no mind to continue soothing Qin Shuman. After hanging up the call, he gently patted Qin Shuman''s hand, then turned and left her boudoir to convey the orders and make some preliminary arrangements.


    But just as he stepped out of Qin Shuman''s room, he suddenly found Cui Lan lurking outside the door with a guilty expression on her face.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, then at the marks on the door, and immediately guessed that the maid had been eavesdropping for quite a while.


    Qiu Tu gave her a deep look but chose not to expose her, instead striding away¡­


    [7:46:21 (Treasure Chest)]


    ¡­


    Time always flies when one is busy, and in the blink of an eye, several hours passed.


    That evening, the Qin Family hosted a grand banquet to welcome Qiu Tu and his party.


    Those attending the banquet included not only Qin Heng, the current family head, but also the second, third, fourth, and fifth branches of the Qin Family.


    Old Master Qin was born before the Cataclysm and had laid the foundation of the Qin Family with the inheritance from his parents. He passed away suddenly three years ago, and now the family was steered by this generation''s head, Qin Heng.


    However, his prestige was obviously not as great as Old Master Qin''s, at least that was what Qiu Tu noticed during the banquet as various branches of the Qin Family were actively trying to cozy up to him. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason might be that Qin Heng had been in poor health from a young age, constantly coughing, and he only had one daughter, so the other branches were somewhat restless¡­


    Qiu Tu silently took note of the current situation at the Qin Family. Although he had the information Eagle had gathered over the past two days, firsthand experience was always more reliable than reports¡­


    After the banquet, Qiu Tu politely declined the fervent invitation of the third branch of the Qin Family, took his team, and returned to the accommodation prepared for the Security Team, ready to meet the young Pharmacist¡­


    He arrived at the guest room where the young Pharmacist was held captive, pushed open the door, and the Special Service Detective inside instantly stood up vigilantly.


    Upon seeing it was Qiu Tu, he let out a sigh of relief and saluted, "Sir!"


    Qiu Tu nodded at him, then said, "You can leave us for now, I want to interrogate her alone tonight."

 Chapter 19 - 19 My Dad Shen Yuzhou!

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the agent flashed an "I understand" expression, then grinned, saluted, and strode out.


    After all, Xinjie City had only recently been established, and most people living here still retained the habits of chaotic times. There was no custom of treating criminals kindly...


    At this time, Fang Ming, who had been following behind Qiu Tu, quickly stepped forward and tugged at his sleeve.


    When Qiu Tu looked over, Fang Ming lowered his voice and warned, "Don''t do anything reckless."


    "If you need anything, just go straight to the Qin Family. They specialize in that kind of business; they''ll surely be able to arrange something for you,"


    "Otherwise, we could also go out and look around, this is the downtown area, there must be suitable places nearby."


    As he spoke, he paused, perhaps fearing Qiu Tu didn''t understand his implication, he added in a whisper, "That girl''s identity... it''s likely not that simple. Don''t be fooled."


    At this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh in disbelief. He responded in a low voice, "Do you really think I''m that desperate? I truly just have some questions I want to ask her."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reply, Fang Ming looked at him suspiciously, trying to find a trace of lying in his eyes, but what he saw was nothing but sincere.


    "Anyway... I''ve told you, just be careful," Fang Ming whispered once more, then left the room.


    Watching Fang Ming disappear from sight, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a smile, thinking the guy was quite interesting.


    Not only was he a good person, but... he also had a clear head.


    But how did he know the girl''s identity wasn''t that simple?


    Even he himself only found out after entering the Qin Family and when the countdown refreshed...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scene when he entered the Qin Family...


    As soon as Qiu Tu stepped into the Qin Family, the 24-hour frozen Countdown Treasure Chest finally began to unlock slowly, and a new Crisis Warning popped up in front of him.


    "Peaceful life is always fleeting, but crises lurk like a shadow."


    "Your immediate superior, Yan Chen, hasn''t been fooled by your lies, but he''s wary of your non-existent background and is also very interested in the origin of the Aurora Stone you possess."


    "However, recently caught in the eye of the storm, he has no time to deal with you, so he conveniently sent you to the Qin Family, wanting them to test your depth."


    "To make this test more challenging, he handed over a Pharmacist with a special identity to you and also spread a rumor that you had an old grudge with the Qin Family. You are ostensibly here to protect Qin Shuman, but in reality, you are investigating the Qin Family."


    "So the moment you set foot in the Qin Family, thousands of eyes within the family were tightly fixed on you, waiting for you to slip up..."


    "At the same time, Yan Chen is also closely monitoring your every move from behind, wanting to pry into your secrets..."


    "Hide your weaknesses, display your strength, only then can you survive among encircling wolves..."


    Accompanying this warning, the new Crisis Countdown also appeared: 7 days.


    Through this Crisis Warning, Qiu Tu became more clearly aware of the perilous situation he was in:


    He was pressed by the aggressively approaching Qin Family, with Yan Chen watching him like a tiger waiting to pounce, and carrying a "Criminal Girl" with an unclear identity.


    Add to that Qin Shuman with unclear allegiances and Cui Lan, the maid who was monitoring him at all times.


    Describing his current situation as "peril at every turn" couldn''t be more apt.


    That''s why, after the banquet ended, Qiu Tu sought out the Pharmacist with a special identity as soon as possible.


    After all, only by first understanding her identity could Qiu Tu adjust and carry out his next plan...


    ....


    After watching Fang Ming leave, Qiu Tu turned to close the door and then stepped into the inner room.


    There, the girl Pharmacist with a special identity had her left hand cuffed to a chair, but she was happily wolfing down food with chopsticks in her right hand.


    Possibly because the food today was decent, her cheeks were puffed out, making her resemble a hamster. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come in, she didn''t act unfamiliar; instead she enthusiastically waved her chopsticks towards him and mumbled with her mouth full, "Come and have some."


    Qiu Tu almost laughed.


    This girl seemed quite at ease, as if she didn''t know she was a suspect and Qiu Tu was the agent.


    It seemed her identity must be out of the ordinary for her to be so composed even when in detention.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "I''ve seen many suspects. There are the fearful ones, the arrogant ones, and those who scream their innocence at the sight of an agent, but I''ve never seen anyone as calm as you."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused, "I heard from Fang Ming that you have some background? Tell me about it. What kind of background is it that scared him into arranging such good treatment for you?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl nonchalantly flicked her chopsticks and said with pouted lips and conviction, "My dad is Shen Yuzhou!"


    When Qiu Tu heard the girl''s words, he was stunned for a moment.


    Then... he had a face full of bewilderment, "Who?"


    Girl: ???


    Perhaps the name of her father had always been very effective, and the girl had grown accustomed to the astonished reactions upon hearing it, so Qiu Tu''s blank look confused her as well.


    Her face turned red, and she hurriedly said, "Shen Yuzhou! Shen Yuzhou! Deputy Speaker of the Third Sanctuary''s Supreme Sanctuary Council, Shen Yuzhou!"


    Hearing the girl''s words, Qiu Tu quickly rifled through his memory, then continued to look perplexed...


    Because in his memory, there was no mention of this person''s name at all.


    After all, Xinjie City belonged to the Eighth Sanctuary, and as it was just getting started, Qiu Tu, a low-level investigator, couldn''t even recognize all the high-ranking officials of his own Sanctuary, let alone those from the distant Third Sanctuary: he''d never had the chance to hear of them...


    However, Qiu Tu finally understood why Fang Ming had a weird look on his face and why Yan Chen had pushed this girl onto him.


    Simply put, no one in Xinjie City could verify whether this girl was telling the truth or not. Neither Qiu Tu nor Yan Chen had the authority.


    If the girl''s identity was real, any rash punishment could potentially cause a conflict between two major Sanctuaries, a responsibility no one wanted to bear.


    And if the girl''s identity was false, scaring the entire Investigation Bureau into not daring to convict her over a lie, then the Bureau would lose all its credibility.


    So, this was indeed a hot potato.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also began to have doubts about the girl''s identity; after all, his "Crisis Intuition" only indicated that the girl had a special identity, but who knew if it meant that her father was Shen Yuzhou?


    Maybe she was a spy? Maybe there was something fishy about her mentor?


    The term ''special identity'' could be too broad of an interpretation...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s mind was racing, and he curiously probed, "If your dad''s position is so noble, then why do you find yourself in such a predicament?"


    "You couldn''t be lying, could you?"

 Chapter 20 - 20 The Eccentric Shen Lingshuang

    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl became even more anxious. She slapped the table and shouted, "Who are you talking about! Who are you talking about!"


    "How could I, Shen Lingshuang, possibly lie!"


    Qiu Tu gave the girl a suspicious look. Although he wasn''t adept at interrogation, he... was good at deceiving others.


    To a master of deception like him, the girl''s expressions and actions were full of flaws.


    Firstly, the girl was habitually maintaining eye contact with him. This is a common mistake among novice liars: they mistakenly believe that it can enhance credibility.


    Secondly, the girl repeated certain pieces of information several times, such as "Shen Yuzhou" and "Who are you talking about," which actually indicated a guilty conscience.


    Lastly, yelling and exaggeratedly slamming the table were signs of lacking confidence and trying to bluff.


    So... was this girl lying?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu slowly retracted the smile from his face and quietly watched the girl.


    At first, the girl continued to bluff, but gradually, her gaze became more and more unfocused, until she finally lowered her head and simply began to eat her vegetables.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reached out to pull the table aside. The girl, holding her chopsticks, exclaimed, "Hey? Hey? Hey? What are you doing!"


    Qiu Tu, with a cold face, pointed at the black uniform he wore and asked in a deep voice, "Do you know which department this uniform belongs to?"


    The girl looked puzzled.


    Qiu Tu stated emphatically, "The Political Department!"


    After saying that, he asked again, "Do you know what the Political Department does?"


    The girl shook her head in confusion.


    Qiu Tu said, "Responsible for espionage, counter-espionage, internal supervision, and various other dark affairs!"


    Then, he continued to ask, "Do you know what methods we use to interrogate prisoners?"


    The girl''s attitude softened considerably. She hunched her shoulders and shook her head pitifully.


    Qiu Tu took out a stack of slightly blurred color photos from his pocket and slapped them heavily into the girl''s hands.


    The girl took the photos, wanting to look, but found it inconvenient while still holding chopsticks. Hesitating for a moment, she put the chopsticks in her mouth and flipped through the photos.


    These photos, which Qiu Tu had specifically gone to the Political Department to request that afternoon, were all of torture scenes or corpses that had died horrifically. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even Qiu Tu felt horrified looking at the photos, let alone a girl like Shen Lingshuang.


    So after just seeing two pictures, her little face turned deathly pale, and her eyes began to glaze over.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu asked knowingly, "Why are you trembling?"


    Shen Lingshuang stuttered, "Me, where am I trembling?"


    By the end, her teeth were chattering uncontrollably.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu secretly laughed to himself: Weakling, thought you were so tough, but a little scare and you cower as well.


    Realizing the time was right, he didn''t continue to press the girl. Instead, while reaching out to take the photos back, he comforted her, "Don''t worry, as long as you behave, I won''t hurt you."


    "You wouldn''t want to experience something like this, would you?"


    Shen Lingshuang quickly shook her head. Perhaps for fear that Qiu Tu wouldn''t believe her, she shook it as if it were a rattle drum.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded with satisfaction, then began a new round of questioning, "Now, tell me, who are you really? How did you come to Xinjie City?"


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu pitifully, "I... I escaped from the Planning Area of the Third Sanctuary. My family suddenly faced a disaster, and I had no choice but to seek refuge in the Eighth Sanctuary..."


    Qiu Tu took out a notebook and casually started to record the interrogation, "Don''t be so vague, give me specifics. Which Planning Area of the Third Sanctuary?"


    Shen Lingshuang shrank back, "The Seventh District."


    Qiu Tu wrote it down, then asked further, "How did you become a Pharmacist?"


    Shen Lingshuang timidly said, "It''s a family heritage..."


    "Family heritage?" Qiu Tu asked with curiosity.


    Shen Lingshuang nodded, "My family has a long history of medical practice, so I learned to concoct potions from a young age, and gradually I became proficient."


    Qiu Tu frowned as he looked at her, "Is the recipe for the Cataclysmic Potion also passed down from your family?"


    Shen Lingshuang gave Qiu Tu a surprised glance, "You actually know about the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "How fresh, don''t you know why you were arrested?"


    Shen Lingshuang blinked, saying with a puzzled face, "Wasn''t I arrested for selling fake potions?"


    Qiu Tu: ?


    The two exchanged perplexed looks.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu tapped on his notebook, saying sternly, "Stop joking around!"


    "Do you think I''m playing with you!"


    "Let me tell you, this is an interrogation, an interrogation!"


    Having said that, he glared viciously at the girl and switched his questioning approach, "I''m asking you, can you make the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Shen Lingshuang shrank her head in, saying cautiously, "I can only make inferior quality Cataclysmic Potions."


    "But as for the specific effects, I really don''t know...."


    She said softly, "The potions I make have always been odd. They always have some strange effects."


    "For instance, when my father had a fever, I made him a fever-reducing potion according to the recipe."


    "His fever indeed subsided, but he also became completely cold to the touch....."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    "Another time, I was testing a new potion and found out it was poisonous; I could only take Antidotes."


    "But after eating several Antidotes without effect, I had no choice but to retch green foam while gnawing on Detoxifying Herbs."


    "I chewed through all the Detoxifying Herbs stored at home until my whole face turned green before I was cured...."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    He felt like three black lines were hanging from his forehead.


    Just what kind of creature was this girl in front of him?


    Was she joking, or was she serious?


    If she was serious... then did she dare to take her own Cataclysmic Potions?


    Meanwhile, perhaps noticing the grim look on Qiu Tu''s face, Shen Lingshuang tilted her head, looking up at Qiu Tu with curiosity and asked, "Why aren''t you laughing anymore? Are you naturally disinclined to smile?"


    As she spoke, a mischievous cleverness flashed in her eyes.


    Qiu Tu: ???!


    In that instant, Qiu Tu confirmed something: The girl was acting! From the moment she saw the photo, she had been putting on a show, including the stories she told later to tease him!


    This was completely outrageous!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu could no longer suppress his anger. He directly pulled the girl up and pushed her into the chair.


    Then he reached behind his back and pulled out his dagger, intending to give Shen Lingshuang a harsh lesson and intimidate her!


    After all, whether it was the fraud rings of his previous life or the Political Department of this world, there were many cruel and painful punishments that inflicted harm without causing disability!


    But just as his hand touched the hilt of the dagger, he suddenly remembered the girl''s identity shrouded in mystery. In that moment, he calmed down.


    He looked at Shen Lingshuang fiercely, torn between letting her go and carrying out the punishment. Caught in his dilemma, his gaze fell on the girl''s slender waist and perky buttocks as she leaned over the table.


    The next second, his hand came down hard!


    "Slap!" "Slap!" "Slap!"

 Chapter 21 - 21: The Second Treasure Chest Opens

    Qiu Tu really put some muscle into it, so after just two hits, the girl was crying out in pain.


    She seemed to be genuinely angry, as she turned around to glare at Qiu Tu with tears in her eyes, her little canine teeth tightly biting her lips, and she bellowed, "You''re done for! Really, you''re done for!"


    "I''m going to have my dad kill your whole family! All of them!"


    "And scatter your ashes to the wind!"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh angrily at her words. He slapped her shapely buttocks hard again and countered, "Well, that''s a coincidence, because I''m a man with no attachments. My parents and relatives are all dead!"


    "So don''t mess with me. If you really piss me off, I''ll rape you before I kill you, and then just run away!"


    "I don''t care who your dad is, even if he''s the lord of heaven, can he bring you back to life?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang was stunned.


    She realized she was completely out of options with this tall investigator before her. Neither soft approach nor hard tactic worked.


    Usually, mentioning her father''s name was enough to have everyone showing the utmost respect, but this man didn''t care at all.


    He was like someone not of this world, totally oblivious to what the title of Deputy Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council truly implied¡­


    Was she really going to take a fall here today?


    As Shen Lingshuang''s mind raced, Qiu Tu remained silent, and the room quieted down for a moment.


    After a while, seeing that Shen Lingshuang had indeed calmed down, Qiu Tu quietly clenched his hand that had turned red from slapping, and taunted, "What, got scared? Bring it on!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s taunt, Shen Lingshuang snapped back to reality.


    With tearful eyes and a look of feigned sorrow, she pleaded at Qiu Tu, "Investigator brother, I was wrong~ Please don''t be angry, and don''t hit or scold me anymore. Whatever you ask, I promise to tell the whole truth¡­"


    After saying this, she puckered her lips pitifully, batting her large eyes at Qiu Tu. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t fooled by Shen Lingshuang''s pretense of submission.


    He still firmly pinned Shen Lingshuang to the chair, then placed a paper and pen on her back, and said coldly, "Alright, I''ll ask, you answer."


    "If I''m not satisfied, the punishment won''t be as simple as before."


    Embarrassed and annoyed at being put in such a humiliating position to answer questions by force, Shen Lingshuang''s inner feelings were a mix of shame and anger. But given the circumstances, she had no choice but to comply.


    Consequently, Qiu Tu soon extracted much valuable intelligence from her, such as...


    ''After the Cataclysm Awakening, each person takes a different Cataclysm path?''


    ''There are six paths in total: Destruction, Life, Mystery, Immortality, Order, and Chaos?''


    ''The abilities or traits each person acquires after their Cataclysm Awakening align with their respective Cataclysm path?''


    ''For instance, a Cataclysmic on the path of Life has the simple trait of being prolific in childbirth? Hence, she gave birth to 10 babies at a time, totaling 107 children in five years?''


    ''For instance, a Cataclysmic on the path of Destruction has the ability to devour everything? Soil, gravel, buildings, all consumable by biting directly?''


    Truth be told, as he listened to Shen Lingshuang''s reports that sounded like utter fantasy, Qiu Tu felt like he was turning into Yan Chen from the previous night.


    He felt she was lying, yet everything was logically consistent.


    He felt she was telling the truth, but it was all too magical...


    Qiu Tu was finally beginning to understand the loathsomeness of a "liar."


    He gave a suspicious glance at Shen Lingshuang, who lay prone on the chair, but in the end, he decided to provisionally trust her this one time.


    So, Qiu Tu first helped her up from the chair, then dragged the table back over that he had moved earlier, and finally handed her a pair of new chopsticks, "Eat."


    Shen Lingshuang didn''t take the chopsticks. She rubbed her arm that had been painfully tugged and her swollen buttocks while looking up with reddened eyes and pouting, "I don''t want to eat, it''s all cold~"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    This girl really has a lot of demands!


    Taking a deep breath to suppress the nameless anger in his heart, Qiu Tu stood up and went outside to call a servant from the Qin Family, arranging to have the dishes reheated. As for himself, he lit up a cigarette and stood frowning alone in the courtyard.


    The moonlight, obscured by sparse dark clouds, left only a dim glow that draped over the quiet courtyard in a cold blue veil.


    The cigarette butt in his hand flickered on and off, like a lonely firefly, while Qiu Tu''s thoughts were immersed in the method for making the Cataclysmic Potion he had just obtained from Shen Lingshuang.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, the recipe for the Cataclysmic Potion was actually not complex; one merely needed to follow the "Star, Moon, King, and Minister" ratio to concoct the potion.


    Star, Moon, King, and Minister are nicknames for the roles different ingredients play in the formula for Secret Medicines.


    Moon Medicine and Star Medicine refer to the two main ingredients in Secret Medicines.


    In the Cataclysmic Potion, Moon Medicine is the primary Cataclysm Material, such as the Aurora Stone; Star Medicine, on the other hand, is an assistant medicine that activates the effects of the primary Cataclysm Materials, generally common medicinal ingredients.


    King Medicine and Assistant Medicine refer to two types of auxiliary medicines in Secret Medicines.


    Assistant Medicine is used to moderate the effects of the primary medicine, usually also common medicinal ingredients, and the required Assistant Medicine varies according to the effects of the primary medicine, which could be one or several types.


    As for King Medicine, it is the agent that binds the Secret Medicine together to ensure its stable effect, so a neutral and harmonious liquid Cataclysm Material is needed.


    Speaking of neutral and harmonious liquid Cataclysm Materials, Shen Lingshuang also provided a few examples. Commonly used ones include Glow-worm Blood, Tears of Moon Color, Ancient Tree Sap, etc.....


    "Tears of Moon Color...."


    Muttering the name of this material, Qiu Tu looked towards the Treasure Chest in the upper left corner, the one he received after surviving the last crisis.


    Inside the chest was a bottle of treasure-blue liquid, none other than Tears of Moonlight...


    "Tears of Moonlight: One of the commonly used Cataclysm Materials. Just gather the other Cataclysm Materials to make items like the ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Key of Different Dimension,'' ''Nat''s Manuscript,'' and other Cataclysm Props."


    Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised that the Treasure Chest just happened to contain Tears of Moonlight. After all, under the introduction of "Crisis Intuition," it was already noted that "rewards relate to the crisis."


    Since the two Treasure Chests were obtained from consecutive crises, it was reasonable for the rewards to be a match.


    But now, Qiu Tu''s dilemma was...with only this one set of materials for making the Cataclysmic Potion, should he really hand them over to Shen Lingshuang, who seemed so unreliable?


    Moreover, given his current relationship with her, would she really put her heart into making it for him?


    After staring blankly at the sky for a while, Qiu Tu suddenly threw his cigarette to the ground and stamped it out ferociously, ''Damn it! There isn''t anyone else anyway, I have to try it out to be at peace!''


    At the same time, just as Qiu Tu made up his mind, suddenly, there was a flicker before his eyes.


    The next second, a series of prompts appeared in his line of sight.


    "Under your firm repression, Shen Lingshuang has developed a strange emotion towards you."


    "If you entrust her with making the Cataclysmic Potion, her kind heart will lead her to scoff verbally, but she won''t deliberately spoil it¡ªshe might at most spit in the Potion after she has made it."


    "But the arrangement of the Cataclysmic Potion doesn''t just require adherence to the Four Essentials of Secret Medicines, but also the crucial fifth and sixth elements: auspicious time and favorable location."


    "Following the Four Essentials of Secret Medicines is only enough for successful concoction of the Cataclysmic Potion, but the fifth and sixth elements are what determine the effect this Potion will have..."


    "You wouldn''t want to know what effect a Cataclysmic Potion concocted near Xinjie City in the last three days would have upon consumption...."


    With the end of the prompts, a three-day countdown hourglass slowly appeared beside the first hourglass.


    Now, looking at the new countdown hourglass in the upper left corner of his vision, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but blink.


    Wait a second, wasn''t the information revealed by this Crisis Intuition a bit too much?


    Let me think this through....

 Chapter 22 - 22 Emotional Scam

    Looking at the lines of prompts before him, Qiu Tu''s brain quickly worked through the analysis of the newly acquired intelligence.


    First, it turns out... "Crisis Intuition" can trigger multiple alerts at the same time, not just one!


    This discovery immediately improved Qiu Tu''s situation quite a bit. After all, even if many crises were to happen at once, he could be aware of all of them.


    Secondly, the "Crisis Intuition" could also be triggered not only when someone else intended to harm him but also when he was about to do something that could lead to his own demise.


    In that case, the usefulness of this Golden Finger had been greatly elevated. It could even assist Qiu Tu in making some crucial decisions.


    Furthermore, the configuration of the "Cataclysmic Potion" actually has "hidden elements" related to time and place?


    No wonder the odds of obtaining Supernatural Power in this world were so low; the key element had been overlooked.


    Or to put it another way... from the perspective of scientific development, no one would consider time and place critical factors affecting a drug''s efficacy.


    What''s more... even if others learned this information, it would be hard to verify: each experiment might cost them a precious Cataclysmic Potion and a living human life.


    Only Qiu Tu was different. With his "Crisis Intuition," he would get a corresponding warning if he faced a fatal threat.


    So... if he configured the Cataclysmic Potion according to the "Crisis Intuition" prompts, couldn''t he awaken to the Cataclysm 100% of the time?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt all the worries of the past two days dissipate like smoke.


    Besides these three key pieces of information, Qiu Tu also deduced a somewhat amusing insight from the prompts... Shen Lingshuang was actually a masochist?!


    She had actually started to feel something unusual for him in response to his rough treatment?


    If that wasn''t a masochist, what was?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn around, his gaze falling back on the room, ''Could it be... that from now on, he had to enhance their relationship by spanking this girl?''


    Qiu Tu was a bit baffled. After all, he was a respectable man...


    As he thought this, the maid came over with a tray of hot food.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu actively reached out to take it and then carried it into the room.


    Inside the room, Shen Lingshuang, wearing silver handcuffs, was propping her cheek with her left hand, gazing out of the window as if lost in thought.


    Qiu Tu sized her up for a moment, finding the girl quite pretty when she was quiet: a palm-sized oval face, delicate lips, and a slightly upturned nose formed a youthful and tender visage.


    Perhaps because she was still maturing, her presence lacked the warmth and charm typical of her age, replaced instead by a hint of youthful vitality.


    Maybe Qiu Tu''s gaze was too direct, as Shen Lingshuang frowned and turned her head, pouting with a childishly fierce expression, "What are you looking at? Keep staring, and I''ll poke your eyes out!"


    Possibly because he knew about Shen Lingshuang''s personality from the Crisis Warnings, Qiu Tu''s temperament had mellowed as well.


    While calmly placing the food on the table, he said to Shen Lingshuang, "Ling Shuang, I''m pleased that you''re willing to cooperate with the interrogation and tell me everything you know."


    "But I don''t like your attitude."


    Shen Lingshuang gnashed her tiger teeth, wanting to retort but perhaps remembering she was still at Qiu Tu''s mercy, so she just snorted through her nose and went back to eating in silence.


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue to press her. Although he knew the girl was a masochist, training a masochist was like scamming¡ªit was all about baiting and reeling in, a game of giving and taking.


    You couldn''t just oppress; you also had to offer some warmth occasionally.


    ```


    So it was that Qiu Tu, while looking at the interrogation records in his hand, silently finished the meal with Shen Lingshuang.


    When Shen Lingshuang put down her chopsticks, Qiu Tu also timely closed the interrogation records and stood up.


    Shen Lingshuang gave him a curious glance and asked, tilting her head, "Were you just keeping me company while I ate?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at her and deliberately said, "No."


    After speaking, he swept away, leaving the room with a flourish and arranging for servants to come in and clean up.


    Shen Lingshuang watched Qiu Tu''s dashing figure disappear, blinked her big eyes, and thinking back to the scene where Qiu Tu had firmly pinned her down on the chair for a harsh scolding, a ripple stirred in her heart...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, who had stepped outside, looked at the murky sky and let out a slight sigh as he reflected on his past.


    Aside from economic fraud, there''s actually another branch of deceit: emotional manipulation.


    And many times, emotional manipulation can extract benefits more easily than financial scams.


    In his previous life, Qiu Tu''s phone scam syndicate was a comprehensive large group that, aside from economic fraud, also dealt with emotional manipulation schemes.


    Twelve types of women, thirty-six response plans, one hundred and eight ways to foster feelings and PUA techniques... all had been compiled into a manual and distributed to the staff to study.


    Although Qiu Tu had not studied it seriously, he had dabbled in it.


    He hadn''t considered this before, but it was the system''s Crisis Warning that reminded him of Shen Lingshuang''s fondness for him. So he just went with the flow to enhance their relationship.


    After spending a night together, Qiu Tu had made a rough assessment of Shen Lingshuang''s identity: even if it wasn''t as exaggerated as she claimed, it was pretty close to the truth. At least the identity of a high-ranking official''s child was indubitable.


    Although it was unclear why such a girl would end up in the Planning Area, it was indeed an opportunity for Qiu Tu.


    If he could really grasp this lead, maybe there would be room for things to turn around.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu found Fang Ming and made arrangements for Shen Lingshuang''s security, mainly borrowing two maid servants from the Qin Family to take care of her.


    After all, Shen Lingshuang was a girl, and the Security Team was all rough men; some matters were not too convenient.


    Fang Ming was indeed a rare good man in this Cataclysmic world. Just days ago, Qiu Tu had been under his command, but now he had suddenly leaped to become Fang Ming''s superior. Despite this, Fang Ming did not show any hard feelings and competently served as Qiu Tu''s deputy. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With him assisting by his side, Qiu Tu could devote more energy to solving his current predicament.


    After arranging for Shen Lingshuang''s daily care, Qiu Tu walked toward the residence that the Qin Family had prepared for him.


    To accommodate the Security Team, the Qin Family had specifically vacated a two-entry courtyard. Since Qin Shuman was staying directly at the Qin Family''s Main Residence, it was natural for Qiu Tu to move into the main building of this courtyard.


    Upon arrival at the main building''s entrance, before he even stepped into the room, Qiu Tu noticed the door to the front hall was open, and the light inside was on.


    He paused for a moment, then stepped inside.


    Entering the front hall, Qiu Tu saw a portly middle-aged man leisurely sipping tea in the guest chair.


    A girl about sixteen or seventeen stood by his side, head bowed.


    Perhaps hearing footsteps, the middle-aged man turned around; seeing Qiu Tu, his face immediately filled with smiles, and he stood up to greet him warmly, "Ah, Agent Qiu, I''ve been waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly as he walked over warmly, "Master Qin Si, do you have matters to discuss with me so late at night?"


    Master Qin Si, the fourth son of Old Master Qin, also the head of the fourth branch. Despite his genial appearance, he managed the Qin Family''s underworld businesses like the Underground Brothel and gambling dens...


    ```

 Chapter 23 - 23 Late Night Secret Talks

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s plump face revealed a sincere smile. As he pulled Qiu Tu down to sit, he said, "There''s nothing much. It''s just that I felt an instant connection with Agent Qiu at the banquet earlier and wanted to get to know you better in private."


    Upon saying this, he tentatively asked, "It''s still early, would Agent Qiu be interested in taking a walk with me?"


    Seeing the expression on Master Qin Si''s face and considering his status, Qiu Tu certainly could guess where "taking a walk" would lead¡­


    But given his current official duties, he smiled and politely declined the invitation, "Thank you for your kind offer, Fourth Master. However, I''m feeling slightly unwell tonight. Perhaps another time."


    Master Qin Si, still smiling, replied, "I understand, I understand."


    He then pointed at the girl next to him and instructed, "Xiao Ying, what are you standing there for? Go brew some tea for Agent Qiu."


    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s command, the girl quickly bowed in acknowledgment.


    Shortly after, a cup of fragrant tea was placed beside Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu nodded his thanks, and while sipping tea, he recalled the situation of the Qin Family''s Fifth House in his mind.


    Apart from Old Wu of the Fifth House, who was born of the legitimate wife, the others from the four houses had the same mother.


    The eldest house was headed by Qin Heng, the current patriarch of the Qin family, whose official position was Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau at Xinjie City City Hall. He was mainly responsible for household registration, social assistance, and welfare management.


    In the whole of Xinjie City, he was a significant figure, second only to Yan Chen and the other three big bosses.


    The second house was led by Qin Zhengguang, the Qin Family''s second-in-command on the surface. His official position was Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Management Division at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, mainly in charge of city-wide public security management and a person of actual power within the Bureau.


    It was to pave the way for him that Old Master Qin kept making private connections with Yan Chen while he was alive.


    The third house was Qin Shu, the third brother among the five Qin siblings. Unlike his two brothers, he did not enter politics but chose to engage in business. The Qin Family''s various business affairs were managed by him, mainly in legitimate industries like ready-to-wear, jewelry, and department stores.


    These three brothers of the Qin family, together with Master Qin Si, who was sitting beside Qiu Tu and in charge of the family''s grey industries, formed the Xinjie Qin family, extending across both the legitimate and underworld realms.


    As for the Qin Family''s Fifth House, because their mother was the second wife and they were pampered by Old Master Qin due to their young age, they were somewhat unruly and had now become a well-known profligate son in Xinjie City, already excluded from the Qin family''s core of power.


    Therefore, even before entering the Qin Family, Qiu Tu had selected two points of breakthrough for his mission. One of them was Master Qin Si.


    What he had not expected was that before he had taken the initiative to approach Master Qin Si, Master Qin Si had found him first. Moreover, having found him, all he did was engage in idle chat without saying anything of substance.


    What was he trying to sell in his gourd?


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu sipped his tea quietly, patiently waiting for Master Qin Si to speak.


    After all... if Master Qin Si was not in a rush, neither was he.


    Perhaps not expecting Qiu Tu to be so patient, Master Qin Si drank three cups of tea and remained silent for approximately ten minutes before he finally couldn''t help but speak up.


    He asked cheerfully, "Does Agent Qiu have a mission here this time?"


    Hearing his question, Qiu Tu, who had been counting the tea leaves in his cup, slowly came back to reality and also smiled as he replied, "What mission could I possibly have? Naturally, it''s to ensure Miss Shuman''s safety."


    Upon hearing that, Master Qin Si, unconvinced, shook his head and raised an eyebrow, "But that''s not what I''ve heard..."


    A thought flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind. "Oh?" he uttered, then looked at Master Qin Si with feigned curiosity, "What has Fourth Master heard then?" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Master Qin Si glanced outside to confirm that no one was eavesdropping. He then lowered his voice, softly saying, "I heard you have a grudge against our Qin family and have come to investigate the Qin Family."


    Of course, such matters couldn''t be discussed openly, so Qiu Tu couldn''t help but wave his hands repeatedly, "Fourth Master, what are you joking about?"


    "What am I that I could investigate the Qin Family?"


    "Let''s not even talk about Commissioner Qin Heng''s status in Xinjie City or Director Qin Zhengguang''s power, even you... could crush me to death with just a finger."


    "If I offended you all, wouldn''t I be afraid that one day I''d be sunk in a pond on my way back home? Hahaha."


    Hearing Qiu Tu speak like this, Master Qin Si also burst into laughter. But the next second, he changed his tone and pointedly said, "So that''s why you moved into the Qin family home."


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he almost couldn''t maintain his smile.


    Is this guy really so steeped in the ways of Jianghu to blatantly threaten a public officer?


    But then upon second thought, Qiu Tu felt he might be wrong: after all, if Master Qin Si really wanted to harm him, his "Crisis Intuition" should have directly triggered a warning, right?


    Could it be...


    With that thought, a light bulb went off in Qiu Tu''s head, and he guessed a possibility.


    He retracted his smile, and suddenly looked at Master Qin Si, then seriously said, "Are you threatening me, Fourth Master?"


    "What, I''m in the Qin family, you wouldn''t dare act against me because it would be hard to explain to the Investigation Bureau. But if I go out, then I''m as good as dead, is that it?"


    "Are you threatening an agent, trying to provoke the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau?"


    Master Qin Si probably didn''t expect Qiu Tu to be so bold. He was taken aback and then his face changed back to the cheerful expression he had before, saying, "Agent Qiu, you''ve misunderstood me. I''m just making conversation with you, why take it so seriously?"


    "I haven''t threatened you, and I haven''t provoked the Investigation Bureau."


    "But people go through birth, old age, sickness, and death. Who knows whether tomorrow or an accident will come first, right?"


    Speaking thus, he narrowed his eyes, patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder with an ambiguous smile, "So, Agent Qiu, you must take good rest, take good care of your health, don''t catch any illnesses or suffer any accidents."


    After saying that, he laughed heartily as he stood up, then left Qiu Tu''s room in a carefree manner. However... as he got up, a white booklet seemed to have accidentally dropped from him...


    Qiu Tu watched him leave, then slowly got up and picked up the booklet from the floor.


    Opening the booklet, it contained records of the second household''s Qin Zhengguang''s illegal actions during his time as the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Administration, including accepting bribes from gang members, indulging gang members'' crimes, releasing members of the anti-government armed forces without permission, and adjusting patrol routes to create opportunities for the members of the Anti-government Armed Forces to carry out operations, among other charges.


    After reading the booklet, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He indeed hadn''t guessed wrong; Master Qin Si had come to tip him off and make overtures.


    Although he appeared to be threatening him on the surface, he was actually indirectly telling him that the Qin family had become aware of his real purpose, and warned him to be careful.


    As for this booklet, it was Master Qin Si''s way of testing him, to see if he dared to investigate the Qin family and to what extent he wanted to probe.


    The only pity was... he somewhat took me for a fool...

 Chapter 24 - 24 Kill!

    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu closed the small booklet in his hands and gently tapped it while silently analyzing:


    If all the charges recorded in this booklet were true, then even if the Qin family was not implicated, Qin Zhengguang would definitely be finished.


    At that time, with one of the Qin family''s two major pillars in politics chopped off by himself, would they let him off?


    As for the impractical idea of using this evidence to drag down the Qin family, Qiu Tu hadn''t even considered it.


    After all, this was information collected by the Qin Family''s Fourth House. How could they possibly set themselves on fire and bring down their own family?


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t mistaken, there were both truths and falsehoods among the charges in this booklet, and even for the genuine parts, Master Qin Si must have made preparations for severance early on, so as not to let the fire spread to the Qin family.


    So, were they using him as their weapon for internal conflicts among the brothers?


    But by bringing down Qin Zhengguang, did Master Qin Si really stand to gain any benefits?


    Could this be a trap?


    Qiu Tu patted the booklet in his hand as he quietly pondered.


    And as he was deep in thought, suddenly a sneaky figure caught his peripheral vision outside the window.


    He was startled for a moment, and without giving further thought to the analysis, he immediately gathered his thoughts and called out sharply, "Who''s out there!" before striding out.


    Qiu Tu moved quickly, so as soon as he had stepped outside, he caught Cui Lan, who was attempting to flee.


    Caught by Qiu Tu, Cui Lan didn''t dare to run away any longer. She turned around with an embarrassed face and bowed slightly, "Agent Qiu."


    Seeing Miss Shuman''s black, chubby maid again, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed deeply: Why was it her again?


    Qiu Tu asked expressionlessly, "Why aren''t you taking care of Miss Shuman and instead hanging around my doorstep?"


    Cui Lan, with her head lowered and feeling guilty, said, "Just passing by."


    Qiu Tu''s face grew colder, "Passing by? Miss Shuman lives in the main house, at least a minute''s walk from here. Don''t you think your reason is a bit far-fetched?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cui Lan defended herself, "It''s my first time at the Qin family''s, I don''t know the way and just happened to wander here after getting lost."


    Qiu Tu looked at her impervious attitude and felt a surge of irritation.


    He simply made it clear, "How long have you been here? What did you hear and see?"


    Possibly encouraged by the topic, Cui Lan slightly raised her head to confidently meet Qiu Tu''s gaze, a schadenfreude smile on her lips, "For over ten minutes. As for what I heard and saw... I wouldn''t dare to say."


    "Anyway, I saw Master Qin Si and you having a pleasant conversation, so I waited outside, not daring to disturb."


    Qiu Tu''s penetrating gaze became especially profound, filled with an intensity that couldn''t dissipate...


    Over ten minutes, and she claims she was just passing by?


    He looked at Cui Lan intently, about to say something.


    But Cui Lan took the initiative to speak first, "Agent Qiu, don''t always focus on me. Although I am also part of the entourage, I''m not with the Security Team."


    "I''m a servant of the Bureau Chief, directly taking orders from him. If the Bureau Chief assigns me some other tasks, I definitely have to do them..."


    "If you have been loyal to the Bureau Chief, what is there to fear?"


    Having said this, she looked up with a somewhat defiant gaze at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu looked at her, just looked at her.


    After a moment, he took a deep breath and laughed, "Ha ha," saying, "Understood, Cui Lan. After all, you are a close confidante of the Bureau Chief, with special assignments, I get it."


    Finishing his address, he extended his hand to see her off, "Then I won''t disturb you any longer. As you were."


    Seeing Qiu Tu conceding, Cui Lan raised her head proudly, then with a perfunctory bow towards Qiu Tu, she turned and left arrogantly.


    Just as she was stepping out, suddenly, she felt a large hand violently cover her mouth, and then she was brutally pressed against a chest devoid of warmth.


    The next second, she felt a sharp pain in her back as a cold, sharp object was fiercely stabbed into her lower back.


    As she felt the bone-piercing agony, Cui Lan had only one thought: had Qiu Tu gone mad? How dare he!


    She was Yan Chen''s maid, after all, and she even had orders from Yan Chen to surveil him!


    Was he not afraid of Yan Chen''s wrath?


    She tried hard to turn her head to see Qiu Tu''s expression, but the hand over her mouth held her face down firmly, preventing her from moving.


    She struggled to break free from this control. But apart from intensifying the pain as she writhed, it was of no use.


    At this time, perhaps sensing her resistance, Qiu Tu''s low, hoarse voice timely reached her ear, "Take a deep breath, it''s okay, it will be over soon."


    Accompanying that whisper were the slow but firm twists of the dagger and even more severe pain....


    Feeling the weakness in her body and the ebbing of life, tears flowed uncontrollably from the corners of Cui Lan''s eyes. She shook her head desperately, crying silently, but none of it could stop her life from inching closer to its countdown....


    As consciousness flickered, she seemed to see herself from yesterday noon, vividly recounting to Yan Chen how Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman were exchanging glances... Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She seemed to see herself last night, leading the way for Qiu Tu with a look of schadenfreude....


    She seemed to see herself this morning, hiding by the door eavesdropping on Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman''s secret whispers...


    She also seemed to see Yan Chen calling her into the dark study, rewarding her with a Silver Yuan for surveilling Qiu Tu, and the ecstatic expression she had....


    If she had known it would end like this, she would never have gotten involved in the affairs of such important people....


    Gradually, Cui Lan''s consciousness grew blurrier until it faded away completely.....


    ....


    Feeling Cui Lan no longer struggle, Qiu Tu emotionlessly let go of his hand.


    He coldly looked at Cui Lan''s corpse, then skillfully dragged her into the house, returned to the courtyard, and lit a cigarette. While silently smoking, he calmly cleaned the bloodstains from the ground.


    After finishing all this, Qiu Tu changed his clothes, then dialed a communication number.


    Soon, Eagle and Ah-Kun arrived late at night. Upon seeing Cui Lan''s corpse, they didn''t say anything, just took out a sack to bag the body, cleaned up the traces once more, nodded at Qiu Tu, and left with the body on their shoulders.


    Watching the backs of the two men disappearing into the distance, the darkness in Qiu Tu''s eyes deepened.


    After a moment, he softly said, "The first one...."


    ...


    Late at night, the door of a side room in the Qin Family''s secondary residence was suddenly rapped on "tap tap tap."


    Shortly after, a middle-aged woman''s questioning voice came from inside, "Who is it?"


    The caller said softly, "Madam, it''s Ah-Fu. I have urgent matters to report to the Patriarch."


    After a while, the sound of rustling clothes came from within the room.


    Shortly, the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, wrapped in a robe, walked out from the inside.


    He bore a resemblance to Qin Si by about fifty to sixty percent, but his body was very thin and frail, with a sickly pale complexion.


    Stepping out of the room, the chilly breeze blew causing him to cover his mouth and cough twice before he looked towards Ah-Fu and asked coldly, "What happened?"


    ---


    During the new book phase, I need continuous reading and recommendations. If it''s convenient for everyone, please continue reading every day or click through to the latest chapter. Thank you, everyone. Lastly, I ask for your recommendation votes and monthly tickets~~

 Chapter 25 - 25: Way 37 of 108 to Improve Relationships

    ``` sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ah-Fu knew that Qin Heng was unwell and couldn''t stay outside for long, so he hurriedly came forward and whispered his report, "Master, three hours ago, the guards reported that Agent Qiu had summoned two people over."


    "Half an hour later, those two people left carrying a sack."


    "An hour ago, the servants reported that Miss Shuman''s personal maid Cui Lan has gone missing."


    "She said she was going out for a walk around 9 o''clock tonight, but she has not returned. I''ve arranged for people to search everywhere, but there''s no trace of her. All the ponds and wells have been checked as well, with no sign of her."


    "But a servant recalled that three hours ago, she was seen heading to the courtyard where the Security Team was staying...."


    Ah-Fu didn''t finish his sentence, but the implication was clear.


    Qin Heng muttered to himself expressionlessly, "Cui Lan...?"


    "Isn''t she the maid we hired to serve Miss Shuman?"


    Ah-Fu reminded him in a low voice, "Master, have you forgotten? The maid sent to serve Miss Shuman was returned the same day after being sent to Director Yan''s villa."


    "So, Cui Lan is a maid personally used by Director Yan."


    Qin Heng''s expression darkened instantly, "Did he bring her from the Sanctuary?"


    This time, Ah-Fu clearly hesitated for a second, then remembering Cui Lan''s plump, dark complexion, he shook his head, "She shouldn''t be."


    Qin Heng''s expression eased slightly, and after pondering for a moment, he said, "Then tell the second brother. Let them deal with the internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau themselves."


    Ah-Fu took the order, "Yes."


    Qin Heng coughed twice again, then turned around and went back to his room.


    After a while, a woman''s concerned low voice came from the room, "What''s wrong?"


    Qin Heng replied softly, "It''s nothing, just a minor issue."


    The woman responded with a "Hmm".


    The room gradually quieted down, and the blue moonlight, like water, spilled over the entire Qin Family Mansion....


    [7 Days]


    [64:25:01]


    ....


    A silent night passed.


    Early the next morning, Qiu Tu got out of bed and habitually glanced at the two hourglass timers in the upper left corner.


    In the timers, the first was for the time Director Yan Chen had given him to investigate the Qin family''s crimes. Six days left.


    The second was for the Cataclysmic Potion''s preparation time, about 57 hours remaining.


    ''Calculating the time, the Qin family should have reported Cui Lan''s death to Yan Chen by now?''


    ''Then, his reaction should be seen soon....''


    ''By then, I''ll know if I guessed right...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu got up, freshened up, then went out of his room to have breakfast.


    To accommodate the Security Team, the Qin family had set up a small kitchen in the courtyard. Every morning, the small kitchen would be ready with meals for the Security Team to eat.


    During breakfast, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming sat at the same table.


    While eating with his head down, Fang Ming said in a muted voice, "Qiu Tu, to be honest, I admire you."


    "When I first met you, you were just a regular detective, and it seemed like you had offended the Bureau Chief''s woman, earning his dislike."


    "But that same night, you turned the tables. Not only were you transferred to the Political Department, but you were also promoted."


    "At the time, I was surprised and curious."


    "But unexpectedly, in just one day the situation turned around again. You were appointed as the Security Team Captain, escorting Qin Shuman back to the Qin family."


    ```


    ```


    "Although I''m not sure what you''re peddling in that gourd of yours, any clear-eyed person knows this is a setup for disaster."


    "A First Level Detective from the Political Department is leading the team, it''s just short of pulling out an investigation warrant right there."


    "Which of those who has made it in the officialdom isn''t cunning? Who couldn''t guess that this is a political statement?"


    "So, countless pairs of eyes in Xinjie City are watching the Qin Family, watching the Bureau Chief, watching you."


    At this point, he paused, then continued, "As a result, last night you first met with Master Qin Si, then killed Yan Chen''s personal maid, Cui Lan..."


    "To be honest, I''m a bit confused about whose side you''re on and exactly what kind of game you''re playing..."


    "My dad always said, when you encounter someone you can''t figure out but still find somewhat trustworthy, the best method is to be honest with them."


    "Otherwise, the other person will calculate against you thoroughly, even making you count the money for them."


    "So, I want to be a little honest with you too. I got involved in this matter purely by accident, and I hope you won''t drag me into your schemes."


    "As long as you don''t involve me, I will owe you a favor."


    "As for your group of brothers, I really like Ah-Tai, and I''ve already arranged for him to participate in the Special Service Department''s selection this morning, no problem there."


    "If you pull through in the end and he continues to follow you, I''ll consider that favor repaid."


    "If something happens to you, I will treat him like my own brother and train him well. With him there, your brothers won''t be completely powerless without your care."


    "But you should try your best not to involve him in your next moves. Otherwise, I won''t be able to protect him."


    After finishing, Fang Ming continued to lower his head to eat, as if waiting for Qiu Tu''s decision.


    Qiu Tu looked at Fang Ming, just watching. After a moment, a smile bloomed on his face, and he extended his hand, "Deal."


    Fang Ming breathed a sigh of relief and extended his hand as well.


    The two hands clasped together.


    When they let go, Fang Ming added in a whisper, "Be careful, the Qin Family''s situation is not that simple, it may involve some higher-level struggles..."


    Qiu Tu felt a slight stir in his heart as he was reminded of the Crisis Intuition''s constant alerts about Yan Chen being caught in a storm. He nodded and sincerely said, "Thank you."


    ...


    After finishing the meal, as the captain of the Security Team, Qiu Tu naturally had to report to Qin Shuman.


    But before he could move, Qin Shuman came looking for him in a fluster, her skirt in hand.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman visibly relaxed.


    She hurried over to him, leaned down close and whispered, "Qiu Tu, there''s trouble."


    Smelling the burst of cherry blossom fragrance and watching the surging white waves before him, Qiu Tu continued to eat calmly while he softly inquired, "What happened?"


    Qin Shuman looked around. There were still other detectives eating at several tables, but she couldn''t care less at that point, so she sat down next to Qiu Tu and lowered her voice, "Cui Lan has disappeared. I suspect someone has harm her."


    "After I returned to my room last night, she asked for leave, saying she wanted to..."


    She was cut off before she could finish by Qiu Tu, "I know."


    "You know?" Qin Shuman''s eyes obviously froze for a moment, making her look much more bewildered.


    Qiu Tu hummed a confirmation, continued to eat without looking up, and said casually, "I killed her."


    Qin Shuman: !!?


    Qin Shuman''s eyes widened in shock as she stared at Qiu Tu.


    Fortunately, she was still rational, so the next second she regained her composure, swallowed, and asked softly, "Why?"


    Qiu Tu looked at her, not hesitating as he began to use one of the "108 Ways to Foster Affection" No. 37: For you.


    "It was of course for you."


    "For me?" Qin Shuman blinked her eyes, revealing a hint of clarity and silliness....


    ```

 Chapter 26 - 26 Testing the Bottom Line

    Qiu Tu stated matter-of-factly, "Nonsense, if it weren''t for you, why would I kill her?"


    Qin Shuman''s mind couldn''t quite catch up, and she asked puzzledly, "But... what did she do to me?"


    As he picked at his food, Qiu Tu explained slowly and methodically, "She was Yan Chen''s person, following you around to keep watch over you."


    "Yan Chen clearly didn''t trust you as a ''mole'' for the military, so he had her record your every word and deed to regularly report."


    At this point, Qiu Tu countered, "Are you a ''mole'' for the military?"


    Qin Shuman hastily and blankly shook her head.


    Qiu Tu said, "There you have it. She found something amiss with you and meticulously recorded all the details."


    "Last night, when she was about to report to Yan Chen, I happened upon her, so I figured I might as well go all the way and killed her."


    Qin Shuman''s mouth fell open slightly, momentarily at a loss for words.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was smiling, contentedly eating a mouthful of meat.


    People, after all, live their whole lives learning the art of passing the buck.


    If you can shift the blame to others and gain their gratitude in the process, why bear it yourself?


    Lay aside personal integrity, and enjoy the life of the shameless...


    ...


    Perhaps truly persuaded by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman seemed to be in much better spirits.


    Although she was still muttering worriedly about Yan Chen''s wrath, under Qiu Tu''s "leave it all to me" reassurances, she gradually calmed down.


    After dinner, to alleviate Qin Shuman''s concerns, Qiu Tu took the initiative to bring her to the pond to feed the fish.


    As one of Xinjie City''s most powerful and influential families, the Qin Family''s estate was broad in area and massive in architectural scale, ranking prominently within the entire city. Thus, the Qin Family Mansion not only boasted a well-arranged residence but also a meticulously designed garden with a distinctly oriental charm.


    Sunlight filtered through the delicate leaves of the bamboo, dancing on the pebble-paved pathways in a mottled pattern,


    Qin Shuman sat on a stool beside the path, her long legs stretched out in front. She pinched a handful of fine fish food and gently scattered it into the crystal-clear pond.


    Suddenly, the previously peaceful waters came alive, as various mutant fish converged from all directions.


    Watching the fish swim around her, a faint smile played on her lips, and her bright, star-like eyes sparkled with allure.


    Qiu Tu stood not too far away, his gaze softly falling upon her. He felt this was the most leisurely moment he had in days.


    Yet he also wondered how much longer he could enjoy such times.


    With that thought, his gaze pierced through the Qin Family Mansion, the streets, and the buildings until it settled on the dark silhouette ensconced in the office atop the Investigation Bureau Office Building...


    At the same time.


    In the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Yan Chen sat in the Bureau Chief''s office, bowing his head as he worked through documents, listening to Secretary Bai''s report.


    After a while, he signed on a document and then looked up to ask, "So, in summary, Second Qin came to report to you today that Qiu Tu killed Cui Lan, correct?"


    Secretary Bai respectfully replied, "Yes."


    Yan Chen let out a light "hmm" from his nose, "Old Qin is really slippery, still unwilling to take a stand up until now."


    "Alright, I''ve got it," he said, and returned to reviewing the documents before him.


    Seeing that Yan Chen had no further instructions, Secretary Bai did not leave but cautiously inquired, "Bureau Chief, should we warn or discipline Qiu Tu in any way?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen paused in his actions.


    He lifted his head, his gaze sharp as he looked at Secretary Bai, flipped his pen around, and tapped it heavily on the desk, saying sternly, "Bai Yu, I know you have high hopes for Qiu Tu, but don''t try to play games with me!"


    At that moment, Secretary Bai broke out in sweat, quickly straightening his back, "Yes."


    Yan Chen''s face turned cold, and she waved her hand, "Go out."


    Secretary Bai saluted respectfully and turned to walk out of the office.


    After leaving the office, Secretary Bai closed the door behind him. Then he let out a slight sigh and shook his head as he walked toward his own office.


    ...


    The fact that Qiu Tu had killed Cui Lan was not exactly a secret. As such, many keen onlookers had also been watching how the situation progressed.


    But after waiting a day, there was absolutely no response from Yan Chen.


    No reprimand, no chastisement, and certainly no rewards. It was eerily quiet, as if she were completely unaware of the incident.


    However, by evening, most people had caught on.


    The lack of any reward meant the incident was not instigated by Yan Chen. Yan Chen was very dissatisfied with it.


    The absence of reprimand or chastisement meant the issue was not yet resolved.


    By intentionally not defining the situation, Yan Chen could, in the future, use the incident to incriminate Qiu Tu whenever she wished, be it in a major or minor way.


    On the contrary, if there were reprimands or admonishments, it would mean the incident was over. Yan Chen, although not pleased, was not preparing to take any action against Qiu Tu.


    ''Just as I thought,'' Qiu Tu felt greatly relieved after waiting an entire day with no resolution coming forth.


    ''Indeed... with my current value, Yan Chen wouldn''t inconvenience me over some non-crucial matters.''


    ''Although she still harbors some wariness towards me, she has actually made concessions in practice.''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s gaze was filled with amusement...


    Anyone familiar with scamming tactics would recognize this as the bait that conned parties bite, a common trick used by swindlers: testing the limits...


    Once a person is hooked by their own greed, their bottom line will be gradually lowered by the swindler, until it''s gone completely.


    So the next step was quite simple...


    ''It''s time to slowly increase Yan Chen''s "sunk cost"...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t even hesitate, immediately sending up a report...


    "Discovered significant clues, requesting backup of one team of Political Department Investigators for deployment, and an increase in operational funds: 399 Silver Yuan."


    "[49:19:48 (able to produce Cataclysmic Potion)]" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    In the evening, as Qiu Tu and Yan Chen were engaged in their strategic contest,


    Shen Lingshuang sat blankly on the steps of the small courtyard, holding a short-legged tabby cat and looking up at the sky with her cheek in her palm.


    A maid and a Special Service Detective stood next to her, keeping watch over her.


    After a while, she turned to look at the Special Service Detective, "Hey, don''t you think you should go check on your boss?


    "Could he have choked to death on water? Otherwise, why hasn''t he come to interrogate me all day?


    "As a significant criminal, don''t I deserve a bit of face?"


    Having probably repeated this spiel all day, the Special Service Detective, upon hearing her, silently turned away, pretending not to have heard.


    Seeing this, Shen Lingshuang glared at him indignantly, then, pouting, stroked the short-legged tabby cat a couple of times, almost yanking out its fur!


    The maid looked on sympathetically and reached out to stop her but didn''t dare to speak up...


    And just then, Qiu Tu''s voice came from outside the courtyard...

 Chapter 27 - 27: Making the Cataclysmic Potion

    "What kind of face? You''re a suspect, and you still have face?"


    Upon hearing that familiar mockery, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes brightened, and she stood up abruptly, exclaiming, "Qiu Tu? You''ve come!"


    As she spoke, Qiu Tu, with his hands in his pockets, strode in from outside the courtyard.


    His legs were long, his figure perfect, and the black uniform of the Political Department looked exceptionally crisp on him.


    Plus, with his handsome looks that rivaled Yanzu, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, Shen Lingshuang was momentarily mesmerized.


    108 Ways to Enhance Affection #7: If you have outstanding physical attributes, be sure to use them to your advantage. This can help you quickly conquer a woman''s heart.


    Stepping up to Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu gestured with a wave of his hand for the Special Service Detectives and the maidservant by her side to leave.


    The Special Service Detective, seeing this, clearly breathed a sigh of relief. He saluted Qiu Tu respectfully before hastily making his escape from the yard.


    The maidservant also left in a hurry, but not before she snatched the little cat from Shen Lingshuang''s arms¡ªthen, with tears in her eyes, she ran off clutching the kitten.


    Watching the two flee as if avoiding the plague, Qiu Tu was full of question marks: What exactly did Shen Lingshuang, the little witch, do to make those guarding her act like they''ve seen a ghost...?


    By then, Shen Lingshuang had also finally snapped back to reality.


    Looking at the handsome Qiu Tu, her face blushed slightly. But her strong pride still made her hold her head high as she asked, "Where did you go today? How come you didn''t come to... didn''t come to interrogate me?"


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, not indulging her rebuke, "What does it matter to you what I do?"


    But after the rebuke, he still added, "I am the captain of the Security Team; naturally, I must be guarding Miss Shuman."


    When Qiu Tu first rebuked Shen Lingshuang, although she found it satisfying, she still felt somewhat indignant.


    But as soon as she heard what Qiu Tu said next, her attention was diverted,


    "Miss Shuman?"


    Muttering the name, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but recall the celestial-like woman she saw when she was sent to the Qin Family.


    It was beauty that she, as a woman, envied.


    She felt a slight sense of loss, and then, as if possessed, she asked, "So, who do you think is prettier, Miss Shuman or me?"


    Qiu Tu looked Shen Lingshuang up and down upon hearing this.


    The young girl was actually quite attractive, but because she hadn''t fully blossomed yet and was too green, it was a bit humiliating for her to compare herself with Qin Shuman...


    So...


    "Definitely you."


    "How can Qin Shuman compare with you?"


    108 Ways to Enhance Affection #9: Offer some compliments that you know are false, as it can quickly increase the other person''s favorability.


    Shen Lingshuang, who unexpectedly received such an answer from Qiu Tu, blushed and asked awkwardly, "Do you really think so?"


    "Of course." Qiu Tu raised his hand to swear, "I swear on the life of my immediate superior, Yan Chen, that if there is a single false word, he shall have no place to be buried."


    Upon hearing that, Shen Lingshuang felt a sweet sensation in her heart. After all, who didn''t know that Yan Chen was Qiu Tu''s benefactor, and that his young age as a First Level Detective of the Political Department was entirely due to Yan Chen''s patronage.


    ¡ªShen Lingshuang had indeed learned quite a bit about Qiu Tu from the detectives guarding her today~~


    Shen Lingshuang nodded contentedly, and although she didn''t say it out loud, she felt very pleased inside.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having finished boosting Shen Lingshuang''s goodwill, also timely started the topic he came to Shen Lingshuang for, "Ling Shuang, I need you to do something for me."


    Although just moments ago Qiu Tu''s two "combination punches" had successfully hooked Shen Lingshuang, she still habitually played coy in response. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She tilted her head, pouted her lips slightly arrogantly, and said, "Just because you tell me to do something, I have to do it? How embarrassing for me."


    Qiu Tu, however, said, "This is a command, not a question."


    "If you don''t agree, I can only help you remember yesterday''s punishment."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s domineering yet ambiguous words, Shen Lingshuang felt an inexplicable shiver in her heart.


    Her cheeks flushed, she turned her head away and muttered insincerely, "Fine, I''ll do it... no need to threaten people..."


    After speaking, she asked without much enthusiasm, "So what do you want me to do?"


    Qiu Tu took out a package from his pocket and handed it to Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang was rather casual when receiving the package, but when she saw what was inside, her eyes widened in an instant, "Aurora Stone! Tears of Moonlight!"


    After recognizing these two precious Cataclysmic Materials, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu in surprise, "Where did you get these two things from?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, refusing to answer, "That''s a secret, you shouldn''t pry."


    Shen Lingshuang was indeed obedient. When Qiu Tu told her not to ask, she didn''t ask any further. However, as her handcuffed hands brushed over the two Cataclysm Materials, her gaze still became extremely complex.


    Putting away the playful expression on her face, she looked at Qiu Tu and asked seriously, "Our relationship shouldn''t be good, right? How can you trust me with these items?"


    "Aren''t you afraid that I will deliberately sabotage and ruin the potion?"


    "You haven''t seen a Cataclysmic Potion before, have you? Aren''t you afraid that I might secretly make a fake potion and pocket these two Cataclysmic Materials?"


    "And... have you ever seen my alchemy skills? Aren''t you afraid that I''ll fail in making it?"


    Qiu Tu did not directly answer Shen Lingshuang''s barrage of questions, but instead fired back, "Would you intentionally spoil my Cataclysmic Potion?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head, "I wouldn''t."


    Qiu Tu then asked, "Would you pocket these two Cataclysmic Materials then?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head again, "I wouldn''t."


    Qiu Tu finally asked, "Then, do you think you can successfully create the Cataclysmic Potion?"


    This time, Shen Lingshuang hesitated for a moment. But in the end, she nodded, "I am at least 90% certain."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Then what do I have to worry about?"


    "You may think our relationship is not good, but I find you very trustworthy."


    "So..... I trust you."


    Accompanying those final words, Shen Lingshuang stood frozen in place.


    Possibly having never been trusted so much by anyone, Shen Lingshuang was somewhat at a loss for what to do. She stuttered, "But, but, I, you...."


    After a moment, she took several deep breaths, forcing herself to calm down.


    Then with a complex look in her eyes, she gazed at Qiu Tu, "But Qiu Tu, I can''t guarantee that the potion I make will truly cause a Cataclysm Awakening when you drink it."


    "You know... the awakening rate of the Cataclysmic Potion is less than 20% now; it''s completely a gamble with one''s life."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu heavily patted Shen Lingshuang''s shoulder and said earnestly, "Then I entrust my life to you."


    Time seemed to stop at that moment, as Shen Lingshuang felt the world around her so vast, yet as if it could only fit a single person, Qiu Tu....


    Tomorrow is my daughter''s birthday, so the two chapter updates will probably both be in the evening. Everyone can enjoy reading them together later; it''ll be more satisfying that way.

 Chapter 28 - 28: The Dangers of Awakening

    For a moment, she regained her composure and said to Qiu Tu with a determined look, "Don''t worry! I will definitely ensure your successful Cataclysm Awakening!"


    Having said that, she seemed to have also entered work mode, waving her hand and saying, "Bring paper and pen, I need to write down the other ingredients for the potion."


    "Although none of them are rare or precious herbs, they still require some time to prepare."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer in the upper left corner [46:35:17], then asked, "Is a day and a half enough time?"


    Shen Lingshuang thought for a moment, "It shouldn''t be a problem."


    Qiu Tu was relieved.


    So, Qiu Tu fetched some paper and a pen, and Shen Lingshuang quickly wrote down what was needed for the Cataclysmic Potion and the equipment. Qiu Tu carefully folded the note and put it in his pocket, ready to contact Eagle, Ah-Kun, and the others to take care of this matter.


    However, after seeing Qiu Tu put away the note, Shen Lingshuang hesitated for a moment before speaking up, "Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked up at her.


    Shen Lingshuang said, "Actually... I have some things about the Cataclysmic Potion that I want to discuss with you."


    "I think you should be aware of them beforehand."


    Shen Lingshuang always appeared to Qiu Tu as carefree and lawless. Now that she was suddenly so serious, Qiu Tu knew what she was about to say must be very important.


    Indeed, Shen Lingshuang began to speak slowly,


    "From the birth of the first Cataclysmic Potion and the first Cataclysmic, it has now been a full 13 years."


    "Research on the Cataclysmic Potion and Cataclysmics by the various Sanctuaries has continued uninterrupted."


    "But the more research is done, the more Sanctuaries realize there are significant problems with Cataclysm Awakening."


    Pausing, she asked, "You still remember the six Cataclysmic pathways I told you about, don''t you?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "I remember. Destruction, Life, Mystery, Immortality, Order, and Chaos."


    Shen Lingshuang nodded and then said, "Yes. But do you know why these pathways are named after these particular words?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head.


    Shen Lingshuang explained, "Because these are the paths that the six pathways follow, and they are also their biggest issue."


    Fearing that her explanation might not be clear enough, Shen Lingshuang gave an example, "If you are a Cataclysmic of the Destruction pathway, then all of your actions must align closely with ''Destruction''."


    "The more you ''Destroy'', the faster your strength will progress."


    "Of course, what you ''Destroy'' is for you to decide."


    "Some people choose to destroy ''Life'', others ''Food'', and some ''Peace''..."


    "Corresponding sub-pathways include ''Slaughter,'' ''Gluttony,'' ''War''..."


    "If it ended there, it might not matter so much. But there is a very terrifying rule on the Cataclysmic pathways."


    "That is¡ªif you only follow your path, your strength will improve, but if you betray or stop your path, then your strength will also start to decline rapidly."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang''s gaze revealed a deep concern,


    "It is under this sort of pressure that many Cataclysmics become increasingly extreme. Their minds even start to deviate from normal, turning completely insane..."


    "Now many speculate that there is a problem with the Cataclysmic Potion itself, or that perhaps humans must undergo Cataclysm Awakening on their own, rather than stealing the cataclysmic powers of other beings." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So... the offspring of the higher-ups in the Sanctuary mostly don''t undergo Cataclysm Awakening. They are just ordinary people."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu was silent for two seconds, and then asked, "Then what about the high-ups of the Sanctuary themselves?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes were filled with a sorrow so dense it was almost tangible, "They have no choice."


    "In the face of the great Cataclysm, in the face of the life-and-death situation of our race, someone must carry the heavy burden and forge ahead."


    Qiu Tu fell silent.


    Shen Lingshuang looked at him and then said, "That''s why I hope you will consider it carefully."


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu took a few deep breaths, vigorously rubbed his face, and then said with a smile, "No need to think about it anymore, I will definitely walk this path."


    Shen Lingshuang looked at him, puzzled, "Why?"


    "If you said you didn''t know the dangers of this road, I could understand your choice."


    "But you clearly know how dangerous this road is, why do you still want to continue down it?"


    She said, "You should know about the dispute over the path of human ''Cataclysm Awakening'' in the Sanctuary, right?"


    "Ever since the ''Cataclysmic Potion'' was researched, the faction advocating for ''stealing mystical powers from other life forms'' has been dominant."


    "However, with more and more people losing control after using the ''Cataclysmic Potion'' over the years."


    "Now inside the Sanctuary, the voices of the faction that believes in ''relying on the natural birth of a new mankind through generations of human reproduction, who inherently possess this power'' are getting louder and louder."


    "You don''t have to..."


    Qiu Tu, however, waved his hand with a smile and cut off her words, "Even if a new mankind is indeed born in the future, that won''t be me, nor you. Am I right?"


    "This is a chaotic era where it''s every man for himself. If you''re not on the dining table, you''re on the menu."


    "I have seen the qualifications to sit at the dining table and don''t want to give up due to my own cowardice, to be slaughtered like pigs and sheep."


    "I''d rather have a splendid and illustrious life. Even if it''s very short..."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, and then continued softly,


    "And besides, although I don''t know what dangers humanity has encountered that require the leaders of the Sanctuary to become Cataclysmics and bear the heavy burden."


    "But if they can sacrifice themselves for the future of our race, then I can too. I think... I want to walk with them."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu stood up and left the courtyard, leaving behind a dashing and resolute silhouette for Shen Lingshuang...


    Shen Lingshuang stared blankly at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure without snapping back to reality for a long time...


    [45:02:01 (Cataclysmic Potion can be produced)]


    ...


    After leaving the courtyard, Qiu Tu gave a few instructions to the rotating scouts and maid at the courtyard entrance, asking them to satisfy Shen Lingshuang''s reasonable requests as much as possible during the time they guarded her.


    Having interacted with this girl for two days, Qiu Tu had confirmed Crisis Intuition''s assessment of her as "having a kind heart."


    She was like a cactus that had grown wildly in the apocalypse, thorny on the outside but always maintaining a pure heart at her core.


    So within his own authority, Qiu Tu still hoped to make her life as good as possible.


    Yep... And it had nothing to do with her Speaker father.


    ¡ªDuring today''s conversation, Shen Lingshuang had revealed too much information that only the offspring of the high ranks of the Sanctuary would know.


    So even if she wasn''t the daughter of Shen Yuzhou, the Deputy Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Third Sanctuary, her background must be extraordinary...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu left the small courtyard where Shen Lingshuang was being held and headed towards his own residence.


    But just halfway there, he received a communication from Fang Ming.


    The content was brief, with just one piece of news... the reinforcements Qiu Tu had applied for in his report this afternoon had arrived...

 Chapter 29 - 29: Establishing Authority!

    It has to be said, when Qiu Tu learned this piece of news from Fang Ming''s mouth, he was somewhat surprised.


    He had considered the possibility that Yan Chen might agree, but he never expected her agreement to come so swiftly, nor did he expect Jia Shu to carry out the orders so quickly.


    Reflecting on the time elapsed from when he requested reinforcements to when they arrived, it was a mere four hours.


    This indicated that Yan Chen had hardly hesitated after receiving the report before approving his request, and Jia Shu had caused no delays.


    ''It''s good news... This means that in Yan Chen''s eyes, I am becoming more and more important...''


    ''However...'' As this thought crossed his mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but speculate, ''Given Yan Chen''s character, there must definitely be a catch with this reinforcement, right?''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu leisurely returned to the courtyard where he was staying.


    Indeed, upon arriving at the courtyard, Qiu Tu discovered a team of Political Department Investigators in black uniforms resting inside.


    And the entrance to the courtyard, which had been rather quiet these past couple of days, today saw several additional servants from the Qin Family Mansion interior.


    They peered into the courtyard from time to time, clearly there to observe and gather intelligence.


    Witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh wryly to himself.


    It seems the first pitfall had arrived: Yan Chen actually hadn''t sent the Political Department Investigators in secret but let them enter the Qin Family Mansion openly?


    What is the Political Department for?


    It''s a secret branch responsible mainly for espionage, counter-espionage, and internal supervision.


    Such a sensitive department always acts with consideration for their impact and keeps a low profile.


    Now, a team of Political Department Investigators entering the Qin Family Mansion openly will probably soon stir up a storm throughout the city.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu stepped into the courtyard.


    When Fang Ming, who was receiving the reinforcements, saw Qiu Tu, he hastily greeted him, "Agent Qiu."


    After the greeting, he introduced Qiu Tu to the two Political Department Investigators beside him, "This is our Security Team Leader, Agent Qiu."


    Having said this, he led the two men forward.


    As the two men approached, Qiu Tu''s gaze also fell on their epaulettes.


    One of the men had two golden flowers pinned on his epaulette, while the other had three, just like Qiu Tu.


    That meant he, like Qiu Tu, was a First Level Detective of the Political Department, a squad leader.


    Indeed, when Fang Ming introduced them to Qiu Tu, he particularly emphasized this point, "Agent Qiu, these two are Investigators Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng."


    "They are the leaders and deputy leaders of this reinforcement squad."


    At this point, Fang Ming gave Qiu Tu a meaningful look, clearly indicating that there was an issue here.


    Qiu Tu kept his composure, but inwardly he was almost amused to the point of laughing by Yan Chen:


    He had requested just one squad of Political Department Investigators, yet a full squad had been sent over, with even their squad leader included.


    He was of the same rank as this Squad Leader Cao Dabiao, whose seniority was greater than his and who was more familiar with the team members. Without displaying some skill, he could be sidelined within minutes. How then could he control this squad and cultivate his own power base?


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu glanced at Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng with a profound look.


    Cao Dabiao was a man in his thirties with a round face, a beard around his jaw, and squinting eyes that betrayed ruthlessness and greed.


    With just one glance, Qiu Tu knew this man was an unruly rascal who would not easily take orders.


    As for Chen Feng, he was a young man in his twenties, with sharp and well-defined features that seemed a bit difficult to deal with, and he appeared somewhat indifferent when he saw Qiu Tu.


    It seems... he''s a thorn too, isn''t he?


    Having considered this, Qiu Tu gained a general understanding of the "test" Yan Chen and Jia Shu had set up for him.


    However... such a trivial difficulty didn''t even register in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    With that thought, he abruptly stood straight and bellowed, "Assemble!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s full-throated command, the Political Department Investigators who had been resting in twos and threes were suddenly startled.


    Earlier, Fang Ming had already introduced them to Qiu Tu''s identity, so upon hearing his call to assemble, they hurriedly ran over and formed up.


    Even if Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng harbored other ulterior motives at this moment, seeing all the team members assembling, they too could only stand before Qiu Tu.


    After seizing the initiative, Qiu Tu swept his gaze sharply across everyone, and then, pointing at his own epaulettes, he introduced himself, "I am Qiu Tu from the Political Department, a First Level Detective! I am the captain of this Security Team, and also the commanding officer of all of you!"


    "Now, attention~~~!"


    As Qiu Tu finished stating his identity and the hierarchy of superior and subordinate was established, everyone''s compliance visibly increased, and they immediately straightened their backs, standing upright.


    Even the old fox, Big Biao, lazily straightened up.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes swept across all the members and he commanded, "Salute!"


    Following Qiu Tu''s cue, a dozen right hands lifted in unison! sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu also stood straight and returned the salute.


    Then he lowered his hand, looked at Cao Dabiao, and said, "Cao Dabiao, step out!"


    Qiu Tu and Cao Dabiao were of the same rank, and Qiu Tu''s seniority was slightly less, so theoretically, he couldn''t command Cao Dabiao.


    But because Qiu Tu''s position included the role of Security Team Captain and the entire squad had just followed his orders, even if he felt somewhat aggrieved, he had no choice but to cooperate.


    Now that Qiu Tu had singled him out with a command, his discomfort intensified. But since he had followed the previous commands and a pattern had been established, he could only reluctantly step forward and said perfunctorily, "Agent Qiu, what instructions do you have?"


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t give him the slightest face, and directly snapped, "Address me as your commanding officer!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s uncompromising words, Cao Dabiao felt a burning sensation on his face. He could almost feel the awkward stares from his team members behind him without even looking back.


    He knew Qiu Tu was completely undermining his authority in the squad and forcibly establishing the concept of hierarchy in front of everyone.


    So, gritting his teeth and glaring at Qiu Tu, he was tempted to challenge Qiu Tu to a contest of wills and push back against his command.


    But just at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    With a cold gaze, he sternly shouted at Cao Dabiao, "What? Are you resisting a superior''s command?!"


    In that instant, Cao Dabiao felt utterly embarrassed.


    In a disciplined force, defying orders is an extremely serious matter¡ªeven to the extent of being shot on the spot during wartime!


    Furthermore, what was more important was that he noticed Qiu Tu''s hand had already moved toward the gun holster on his back.


    ''Does he truly intend to kill me?''


    ''How dare he?!''


    ''Has he gone mad? To shoot a First Level Detective over a formality? He wouldn''t survive the repercussions either!''


    Although he couldn''t believe in his heart that Qiu Tu would do such a thing, the dark intensity in Qiu Tu''s eyes forced him to yield at that moment due to the overwhelming sense of danger.


    ''There''s no point in reasoning with a madman!''


    ''As long as I live, I can seek revenge later!''


    With that thought, he lowered his head and shouted loudly, "Yes, commanding officer!"


    Qiu Tu''s hand relaxed from the gun holster, and he nodded in satisfaction, "Good!"


    "Now, I have a mission to assign to you!"

 Chapter 30 - 30 Power

    ```


    After one''s spine is forcibly broken, it becomes very hard for them to hold their head up high again.


    So, when Cao Dabiao showed weakness, he had already reached a point of reckless abandon.


    He bellowed, "Please give your orders, sir!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu let out a slight smile,


    "Now, I command you to leave the Qin Family with two familiar agents. In half an hour, I will contact you and give you further instructions."


    "Huh?" Possibly not expecting such an order from Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao looked at Qiu Tu with a confused expression.


    But now, the entire scene was under Qiu Tu''s control, and his prestige and confidence had just been thoroughly crushed, so he didn''t dare to voice any objections.


    Thus, like a zombie, he picked out two of his confidants from the ranks and, still dazed, led them away from the Qin Family, ready to receive Qiu Tu''s next command in half an hour.


    In this manner, they left the Qin Family Mansion.


    Standing at the entrance of the Qin Family Mansion, facing the extensive city roads that branched out in all directions, Cao Dabiao was bewildered for a few seconds before he suddenly came to his senses!


    Damn it! Was I just stripped of my "military power"?!


    Thinking of his squad, now completely out of his control, a horde of unspeakable emotions surged wildly in Cao Dabiao''s heart!


    However, the next second, when he saw the two confidants by his side, he exclaimed again, "Damn it!"


    Shit! Did I just take my confidants with me?


    Doesn''t that mean I don''t even have anyone to pass on messages or give remote orders??


    With this realization, Cao Dabiao felt an icy chill throughout his body.


    He thought back to Qiu Tu''s series of actions just now: preemptive strike¡ªherd mentality¡ªoverwhelming authority¡ªintimidation¡ªrelocation. A combination of moves that left him out of the game before he even got into the groove.


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao only felt an ominous chill.


    He was tempted to go back and challenge Qiu Tu again, but Qiu Tu''s recent tactical combination had completely sapped his courage.


    Being not of a tough disposition to begin with, after much hesitation, he chose to give up.


    ''Forget it, he''s a tough nut to crack... better not provoke him.''


    ''Might as well consider it a vacation.''


    ''After all, I''ve got two confidants with me. Worst comes to worst, after this mission is over, I''ll just gift something nice to the superior officers and get transferred to another squad...''


    Thinking this way, Cao Dabiao wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and waved to his two confidants, saying generously, "Let''s go, off to have some barbecue. It''s on me."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Inside the barracks of the Security Team, Qiu Tu looked at Chen Feng and the remaining nine agents with satisfaction and nodded approvingly.


    After kicking out Cao Dabiao, who was of equal rank to him, all the agents present were now lower in both position and rank, completely eliminating the possibility of challenging his authority.


    However, while this squad appeared outwardly obedient to him, to truly win their allegiance required some additional methods...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu turned to Fang Ming and asked, "Agent Fang, has the funding I applied for from the Bureau Chief come through?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the bewildered Fang Ming at his side snapped back to reality.


    The shock of what had happened in those few short minutes was greater than the teachings of his family over several years.


    ```


    Upon witnessing how Qiu Tu dispatched Cao Dabiao with just a few swift moves, a phrase his father once taught him echoed through his mind:


    "The essence of power isn''t the ability to do what you want, but the ability to make others do what they don''t want to do."


    In that instant, he felt as if he truly comprehended what this sentence meant. And... it was his first real encounter with Qiu Tu. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Therefore, when he heard Qiu Tu''s inquiry, he snapped back to reality, gave Qiu Tu a deep look, and then respectfully responded, "Reporting to the officer, we have arrived."


    Having said that, he stood up to retrieve a small box bearing the Investigation Bureau''s insignia from the room and presented it to Qiu Tu with both hands.


    Qiu Tu received the box, opened it to inspect the contents, and found it brimming with shiny Silver Yuan.


    He grabbed a handful¡ªthirty to forty coins¡ªand threw them directly at all the agents.


    Seeing the scattering Silver Yuan, the agents'' eyes reddened. Their reflex was to reach out and collect them.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu let out a thunderous shout, "Don''t catch it!"


    "You are agents! A disciplined force! If the officer hasn''t told you to move, I''ll see who dares!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the ten agents present swayed slightly, but ultimately all stood still. However, from their fervent gazes, one could tell their desire had not lessened at all.


    After all, in the Planning Area, Silver Yuan had substantial purchasing power.


    A single Silver Yuan could buy 80 pounds of top-quality rice, 10 to 20 pounds of meat, or 30 feet of cotton fabric. Its purchasing power was roughly equivalent to 800 of Qiu Tu''s former world''s currency. It was generally not used in transactions among the lower class.


    So, for the agents whose monthly salary was only "three Silver Yuan," these thirty to forty coins truly represented a fortune.


    Seeing his authority and prohibitions respected, Qiu Tu nodded with satisfaction.


    He returned the small box to Fang Ming, then paced in front of the ten agents. Only then did he speak under the intense gazes of the crowd, "You are all my subordinates. As long as you follow me and work hard! What are promotions? What is Silver Yuan? You will have it all!"


    After finishing, Qiu Tu gestured with his hand, "Now, Chen Feng takes five coins, everyone else takes three, and the rest will be picked up and returned to me!"


    "Chen Feng supervises!"


    "Dismissed!"


    Accompanying Qiu Tu''s voice, the agents eagerly bent down to pick up Silver Yuan from the ground.


    But owing to Qiu Tu''s prior order, they did not scramble for it and tacitly picked up only the coins nearest them.


    Soon, each agent held three Silver Yuan in their hands, and the extras were handed over to Chen Feng, who then presented them all to Qiu Tu.


    After placing the Silver Yuan in Qiu Tu''s hands, Chen Feng looked at him with complexity in his eyes and sincerely expressed, "Officer, you, you are... very impressive."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu scanned the other agents, who now regarded him with a mix of awe and eagerness.


    Qiu Tu knew that these ten individuals were now reliable...


    "In name, power comes from above, but in substance, it derives from below."


    .....


    After calling the ten Political Department Investigators to the room, Qiu Tu first divided them into pairs, then took out several clues copied from Master Qin Si''s booklet, instructing them to follow up on the information.


    Soon, the five teams of Political Department Investigators were assembled into squads and set off in sequence.


    Before they left, Qiu Tu made sure to exchange communicators'' numbers with them, demanding immediate reports on any developments without causing alarm.


    Perhaps motivated by the combination of reward and authority exercised earlier, all five teams cooperated fully.


    After completing all these arrangements, Qiu Tu left the room and, watching the Political Department Investigators file out, took out his communicator and dialed Cao Dabiao''s number....

 Chapter 31 - 31 The Drunken Qin Shuman

    A moment later, the communication connected.


    Qiu Tu didn''t beat around the bush and simply said, "Captain Cao, due to an accident, your task has been temporarily canceled. Return to the Qin Family''s quarters now, I have new instructions for you."


    Once he finished speaking, Qiu Tu directly hung up the communication.


    Meanwhile, Cao Dabiao, who had just started drinking with his two confidants and enjoying barbecue, listened to the "beep beep beep" coming from the handset in a dumbfounded manner. After a moment, he violently slammed the skewer he was holding onto the table and cursed angrily, "Damn it! That bastard is really pushing it too far!"


    "It''s like he''s playing me for a fool!"


    But that''s how it is in a disciplined force, where rank and hierarchy crush people. No matter how unwilling he was in his heart, if he still wanted to carry on working in the Investigation Bureau, he had no choice but to suppress his displeasure and obey.


    So, with a face ashen, he settled the bill and hurried back to the courtyard with his two confidants.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t toying with him, rather... it was for insurance.


    With the squad''s morale just settling, Qiu Tu wouldn''t allow any risks: so when the squad was by Qiu Tu''s side, Cao Dabiao had to be pushed to the outside; when the squad dispersed to carry out tasks, Cao Dabiao had to come back and stay by Qiu Tu''s side.


    This way, the possibility of Cao Dabiao colluding and undermining him could be maximized.


    By now, the trap that Yan Chen had dug was thoroughly stepped over by him.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gazed at the courtyard entrance, silently contemplating: but even though this trap was stepped over, there was another pit lying in front of him.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind couldn''t help but fly to the matter of the Political Department Investigator making a big show of force entering the Qin Family.


    His brain worked at lightning speed, pondering countermeasures.


    A moment later, his heart subtly shifted, feeling... although the matter was a bit tricky, could it actually be used to his advantage?


    He had originally requested reinforcements to secretly investigate the Qin Family; now that a secret investigation was no longer possible, why not take the opportunity to probe a bit?


    Perhaps... someone would become restless and reveal their flaws?


    For example, that person he was most interested in...?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu felt he had a clear plan in mind.


    He didn''t wait for Cao Dabiao to come back, instead, he stepped out of the courtyard.


    Since it was rest time, some of the Special Service Department''s detectives were chatting and exercising in the courtyard.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, they were visibly more respectful than they had been two days before, standing up to salutate and greet him, "Good day, Sir!" "Good day, Sir!"


    Qiu Tu waved back warmly and exchanged a few caring words.


    Seeing their enthusiastic demeanor, Qiu Tu knew that what he had done today¡ªfirmly dealing with the Political Department squad and the fact that he gave each person three Silver Yuan¡ªhad already spread.


    People are attracted to benefit and avoid harm, and they yearn for those who can offer them greater benefits.


    However... Qiu Tu was very clear about his own position. Though he was now the Captain of the Security Team, it was a temporary position and not meant to last.


    His actual rank was just that of a First Level Detective in the Political Department, at most only qualified to command a Political Department squad.


    This meant that once the Security Team disbanded, his control over the Special Service Department squad would not be justified.


    Furthermore, he couldn''t even transfer people from this squad to his side¡ªmoving personnel across two powerful departments required too much energy.


    Therefore, he would provide tangible benefits to the Political Department squad but would only curry favor with the Special Service Department squad, leaving a sense of goodwill...


    Leaving the residence, Qiu Tu went to the separate courtyard where the person he was most interested in¡ªQin Shuman¡ªlived.


    Miss Shuman''s public identity was that of a goddaughter acknowledged by the Lady of the Qin Family Head, and on top of that, since she was Yan Chen''s mistress, she owned a separate courtyard within the Qin Family''s Main Residence.


    The courtyard had few rooms; apart from the main hall, the other chambers had all been transformed into entertainment rooms such as an audio-visual room, an art studio, a bar, etc.


    When Qiu Tu found Miss Shuman, she was alone in the little bar of the courtyard, drinking by herself.


    Apparently not expecting Qiu Tu''s late-night visit, she was without any disguise, unceremoniously slumped over the bar counter, her eyes blurred as she swayed a clear, square-shaped glass.


    Under the colorful lights, her deep red dress was as enchanting as fire, stark against her skin as pale and delicate as jade.


    It was Qiu Tu''s first time seeing her completely without any pretense, and for a moment, he was spellbound.


    But soon, he regained his composure and, from the alluring yet melancholic look in Miss Shuman''s eyes, he sensed that something was amiss....


    This woman''s heart seemed to be filled with stories. This did not correspond with her identity as a "Cloned Female Body"....


    ''It seems I am destined to have a gain tonight...''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu gestured to stop the maid from saluting and walked over, taking a seat beside Miss Shuman.


    Feeling someone beside her, Miss Shuman glanced over with hazy eyes and, upon seeing Qiu Tu, she suddenly laughed.


    "Qiu... Tu~~~"


    Her voice stretched out, carrying a hint of seduction, then she lazily wrapped an arm around Qiu Tu''s neck, slurred and said, "Why are you here? Come on, have a drink with me!"


    After speaking, she snapped her fingers at the maid, "Give him a ''Fallen Night''."


    The maid glanced at Qiu Tu, and upon seeing his nod, she took out a bottle that looked quite premium and poured a glass of amber-colored liquor for Qiu Tu.


    Once the liquor was served, Qiu Tu waved the maid off, instructing, "You can go now."


    "Yes," the maid bowed slightly and left the bar, closing the door behind her and waiting outside.


    After the maid left, Qiu Tu tasted the liquor, then asked softly, "What''s the matter with you?"


    Miss Shuman''s slender fingers caressed the crystal-clear glass, she tilted her head back to down the amber liquid in one gulp and then said, tipsily, "Nothing~ I''m just... happy! Extremely happy!"


    As she spoke, she forced the corners of her mouth into a fake smile.


    Qiu Tu just watched her, simply watched her.


    After a while, he smiled and clinked his glass against hers, downing the drink in his glass all at once.


    Having finished his drink, Qiu Tu picked up the exquisite bottle from the table and poured another round of "Fallen Night" for both of them, gesturing towards Miss Shuman.


    This time, Miss Shuman seemed a bit more composed. She gently swirled the liquor in her glass, and then with a bit of a distant look, she posed, "Qiu Tu~~ do you think in this world there could be people who suddenly become someone else?"


    Startled by her words, Qiu Tu pretended not to understand and replied, "I''m not quite following you. Do you mean...."


    Miss Shuman placed her index finger on Qiu Tu''s lips and leaned her beautiful face closer to his, then said softly with blurred vision, "Like... for example... you."


    "...Don''t you feel like you''ve become a different person?"


    Qiu Tu laughed "haha" twice, taking a small sip from his glass, "After experiencing major events, a person''s character can indeed undergo significant changes." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He continued, countering, "As for Miss Shuman, it seems like you''ve remained quite the same."


    He paused, then added with a suggestive tone, "Except... tonight."

 Chapter 32 - 32 Qin Shuman Blunders

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed so hard she was falling backwards and forwards. She then reached out to hook her fingers under Qiu Tu''s chin, looking at him with an alluring yet dangerous gaze, and breathed out softly, "Well, Agent Qiu really doesn''t know me too well, does he."


    Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly as he pondered the meaning behind Qin Shuman''s words. He always felt that Qin Shuman seemed to have revealed a very important piece of information, but he couldn''t quite make sense of it at the moment.


    At this time, however, Qin Shuman didn''t give Qiu Tu more time to think.


    She seemed to sense something amiss and poured herself a glass of cold water.


    With the cold water down, her eyes cleared slightly, and the dangerous aura about her abated considerably.


    Then she slowly reverted to her usual innocent demeanor, "By the way, what brings you here so late? Is there something you need?" Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After speaking, she looked worriedly at Qiu Tu, "It can''t be that Yan Chen has started trouble again¡­"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept over her, and while taking a sip of alcohol, he said with a deep look in his eyes, "Yes, Yan Chen has stirred up trouble again."


    He said, "Actually, after coming to the Qin Family, I guard by your side during the day, but at night I''ve been going around gathering intelligence."


    "And believe it or not, after these past two days of investigation, I''ve really found some leads."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was momentarily stunned, then propped up her cheek curiously and asked, "What leads?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes were sharp as he said decisively, "I''ve found that the Qin Family might indeed be in collusion with the military and the Anti-Government Army!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s gaze was fixed intently on Qin Shuman. He clearly saw her slender waist suddenly tense up.


    "Oh? Is that so? Have you found any evidence?" Qin Shuman asked indifferently.


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, "I actually found some. So I reported to Yan Chen requesting reinforcements and called in a team of Political Department Investigators to conduct a secret investigation."


    "Who knew that Yan Chen, trying to trip me up, would let that team of investigators enter the Qin Family openly!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pounded the table in frustration, "The Qin Family is not stupid; this is completely startling the snake."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu downcastly took another drink


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman, as if struck by a thought, took a pensive sip of water and asked, "So what do you plan to do now?"


    Qiu Tu continued drinking, "What else can I do? Keep investigating."


    Qin Shuman kept drinking water, "And where do you plan to start?"


    And so the two of them chatted, one drink following another.


    They didn''t know how long they drank or how long they talked¡­


    Just when Qin Shuman was getting a clearer picture of Qiu Tu''s plans. Suddenly! She felt a large hand clamp on her waist.


    That instant, she was startled and quickly turned to look at Qiu Tu.


    Only to find that the previously sober Qiu Tu, perhaps because of the alcohol, was now looking at her with drunken eyes, his gaze containing something untouchable¡­


    She pressed down the hand that was trying to lift the hem of her skirt in a panicked whisper, "Qiu, Qiu Tu, the servants are still outside!"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu''s eyes were drowsy with drink, and his handsome face was flushed with intoxication. He leaned in close to Qin Shuman''s ear and murmured, "Be good... cover your mouth, and no one will know."


    "Besides... I just want to exchange some information with you."


    As he spoke, his breath tickled Qin Shuman''s ear, warm and raising goosebumps¡­


    ....


    .....


    Half an hour later, Qin Shuman, with her waist feeling weak, leaned against the bar, clutching her skirt, her face showing a mix of embarrassment and annoyance as she watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, muttering nonstop, "Bastard, he''s just a complete bastard!"


    As Qiu Tu fastened his belt, his bleary eyes squinting, he pushed open the door and stumbled out of the small bar, his hand inexplicably marked with several deep, crimson bite wounds...


    The waiting maid outside detected nothing amiss; she glanced at Qiu Tu and curtly bowed.


    Qiu Tu nodded at her, then slurred, "Miss Shuman is also drunk and can hardly walk. Help her back to her room to rest."


    "Yes."


    The maid pushed the door and entered the bar, while Qiu Tu wobbled out of Qin Shuman''s courtyard.


    However, the moment he stepped out of the courtyard, his pace gradually steadied and his drunken eyes slowly became sober and deep.


    ''Drinking really does lead to mistakes.''


    ''Regrettably, not for me, but for Qin Shuman...''


    ''She''s been pretending for so long, yet today, she let her guard down a bit too much after drinking...''


    ''Although we''re in the same boat now, there''s still a slight difference in our positions.''


    ''For instance... proving that the Qin Family really colluded with the military and the Anti-government Armed Forces benefits only me, not her.''


    "Because, once I gather enough evidence, I can solidify the lies and betray both her and the Qin Family."


    "Under such circumstances, she isn''t worried about how to keep herself safe after I find the evidence. Instead, she''s concerned about where I''ll start my investigation. This is highly inconsistent with her persona..."


    ''It seems my intuition is correct: there''s indeed something off about her identity.''


    ''Now that the bait has been cast, I just have to wait for the contacts to reveal themselves, and then I''ll know who Qin Shuman is really working for...''


    ''I can also figure out why they''ve been pestering me incessantly...''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu felt the fog that had clouded his vision since his transmigration begin to disperse somewhat, and he could almost make out the outline of the truth...


    ...


    Upon returning to the Security Team''s base, Cao Dabiao had been waiting for quite a while.


    When Cao Dabiao saw Qiu Tu arriving belatedly, he glared at him, his voice almost squeezed out through his teeth, "The officer''s official duties must be very busy. Your subordinate has been waiting here for several hours."


    Qiu Tu didn''t care and didn''t even respond to Cao Dabiao''s remarks.


    He sauntered over and took a seat, then seamlessly shifted the subject, "Brother Biao, how old are you this year?"


    Cao Dabiao couldn''t keep up with Qiu Tu''s erratic line of thought, but he still answered, "35."


    Qiu Tu uttered an "Oh," took a sip of tea, then looked up and asked, "I remember there''s no significant Cao family or the head of an organization with the Cao surname in the entire Xinjie City, right?"


    Cao Dabiao''s gaze flickered slightly, he did not reply directly.


    Qiu Tu set his teacup aside and tapped his fingers lightly on the table, "Temporary agents earn a monthly wage of 300 Copper Yuan, Third-Level Detectives get 1 Silver Yuan plus 500 Copper Yuan, Second-Class Investigators 3 Silver Yuan, and First Level Detectives 8 Silver Yuan."


    "Xinjie City has been established for a year, the Political Department has only been in operation for half a year; after deducting daily expenses, how much savings could you have? 30 Silver Yuan?"


    Cao Dabiao opened his mouth as if to say something, but in the end, he closed it again.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu went into the inner room, brought out the box containing the funds for this operation, and placed it on the table, revealing the gleaming Silver Yuan inside.


    He settled back into his seat and spoke leisurely, "I''m 21 years old this year, the same rank as you, with the support from high-ranking Sanctuary officials above and the backing of the Bureau Chief below."


    "Young, wealthy, powerful, and also your superior. What can you possibly gain by going against me?"


    "Even if you do manage to cause me some trouble, once I get promoted in a few months, dealing with you will be a piece of cake, won''t it?"

 Chapter 33 - 33 The Fish That Took the Hook

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s gaze flickered ceaselessly as if analyzing whether the information Qiu Tu had divulged was real or fake.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t rush him; he simply took out a cloth bag, counted out 80 Silver Yuan from the box full of them, and tossed it to Cao Dabiao.


    "Ding ding ding~" As the cloth bag landed in his hands, it discharged a symphony of intoxicating coin clinks.


    Cao Dabiao accepted it blankly, then looked at Qiu Tu in surprise.


    Qiu Tu said, "This is 80 Silver Yuan, yours."


    Feeling the hefty weight in his hands, Cao Dabiao swallowed hard, forcibly suppressing the greed in his heart, then tentatively asked, "Officer, this seems to be operational funds, isn''t it? This...."


    Qiu Tu waved his hand to interrupt him, "As long as I dare let you take it, I can ensure your safety."


    "If I''m not afraid, what are you afraid of?"


    "If the sky falls, won''t I be here to hold it up for you!"


    "Make your choice now. If you are willing to follow me, take the money, and I''ll keep you in mind when it''s time for promotions and wealth!"


    "If you''re unwilling, just put it down, then find a place to stay for a few days. After I complete my mission, you can come back, and I absolutely won''t make things difficult for you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s expression changed rapidly.


    After a moment, as if coming to a realization, he bent over. Grinning up at Qiu Tu, he said obsequiously, "You jest, Officer." S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Actually, from the first time I met you today, I felt an instant connection, eager to serve before and behind your saddle."


    "It''s just that you seemed to have some misunderstandings about me, not giving me a chance."


    "Now that you are willing to accept me, I couldn''t be happier."


    As he spoke, he tucked the cloth bag into his chest, with an ingratiating smile he said, "From now on, just command me for anything, Officer. I assure you, I will go through fire and water and not shirk from death!"


    Listening to the obsequious words, Qiu Tu looked at him deeply and then burst out laughing, "Haha."


    Cao Dabiao also laughed along, his demeanor resembling that of a fawning dog...


    Half an hour later, Cao Dabiao nodded and bowed as he backed out of the room. Once he turned around, his hand touching the weighty Silver Yuan in his chest, his face brimmed with excitement.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu watched his retreating figure, his eyes filled with amusement...


    See, greed is always the most powerful weapon.


    Without avarice, it would have been difficult to find the opportunity to drag Cao Dabiao and the entire Political Department squad into the mire.


    Now that the entire squad had taken misappropriated public funds, especially with Cao Dabiao taking so much, they were truly tied to the same string of grasshoppers.


    They would be safe while everything went smoothly for me, but if I were to encounter danger... they would have to protect me in turn to save themselves.


    Used properly, these people could achieve some unexpected effects...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out the communicator and dialed Eagle''s number.


    On the communicator, Qiu Tu arranged for Shen Lingshuang to purchase the herbs and ordered him to have Ah-Kun, Monkey, and a few other brothers go to different pharmacies and the black market to buy them in batches.


    After giving instructions on what to pay attention to, Qiu Tu said to Eagle, "Eagle, I''m preparing to transfer you and Ah-Kun to the Political Department to help me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Eagle replied steadily, "Alright, Brother Tu. Then I''ll go to the Political Department to submit my report tomorrow and prepare for the assessment."


    Qiu Tu said, "Hmm, but don''t put my name as your recommender."


    Eagle asked, "Then whose name should I write?"


    Qiu Tu, "Cao Dabiao."


    "I''ll give you his contact information in a bit; you get in touch with him."


    "Okay," Eagle responded, then thoughtfully added, "Brother Ted received a notification from the Special Service Department today and has gone for the assessment."


    "I heard that apart from failing in the shooting, he got grade As in all the other subjects. There won''t be any problem with him passing the assessment."


    This was a matter agreed upon by Fang Ming and Qiu Tu, so Qiu Tu merely responded with a noncommittal "Hmm" and did not offer any further comment....


    With that, the communication was ended, and Qiu Tu sat on a chair, quietly gazing at the night outside for a while.


    He felt like he was a frail ghost face spider in the Amazon Rainforest, silently weaving his own dark, extensive web that sprawled across the entire Xinjie City, then patiently waiting for the moment to hunt....


    ----


    [5 days (the latest deadline to obtain evidence against the Qin Family)]


    [31:12:11 (time remaining to create the Cataclysmic Potion)]


    The night passed uneventfully.


    The next day, before Qiu Tu could receive contact from the forces behind Qin Shuman, another fish took the bait first.


    "Fourth Master? I didn''t expect you would communicate with me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si chuckled over the communicator, "Hahaha. Agent Qiu, you know I don''t visit without good reason."


    "Oh?" Upon hearing Fourth Master''s words, Qiu Tu, while sipping tea, casually asked, "What matter brought me to Fourth Master''s mind?"


    Master Qin Si said, "It''s still about my good-for-nothing Second Brother, of course."


    Continuing, Master Qin Si said, "Tonight, I would like to invite Agent Qiu to watch a play."


    Qiu Tu, "A play?"


    Master Qin Si affirmed, "Yes, a play."


    "To let you witness firsthand my Second Brother''s confidant getting in contact with the anti-government organization."


    At Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu paused.


    His interest piqued, he asked, "Actually, Fourth Master, more than Director Qin colluding with the anti-government organization, I''m curious about... why you are targeting Director Qin so specifically."


    "What benefit would Director Qin''s fall have for you?"


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si declared unequivocally, "No benefit!"


    He expressed a sort of exasperation, saying, "But I just can''t stand by and watch him destroy the family business my father worked so hard to build from scratch!"


    With a hint of nostalgia, he continued, "Back in the day, my father started with nothing, battled through hardships, and established the vast Qin family wealth! Besides my grandfather''s 100 jin of gold, a tech company, and a few dozen trustworthy lieutenants, he relied on no one!"


    "So I will not allow anyone to destroy what he spent his lifetime building!"


    Qiu Tu:....


    "Understood."


    Master Qin Si grunted, then went on, "That''s why, when I found out what my Second Brother had done, I knew only by condemning my own kin could I save the Qin family from ruin."


    "The reason I left that document last time was because I wanted to see if you, Agent Qiu, truly dared to investigate this matter."


    "And yesterday, when you deployed a team of Political Department Investigators to start looking into it, you convinced me of your sincerity, so I am also willing to show you even more of mine."


    After listening to Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment, then said, "Okay, then I''ll trouble Fourth Master to send the address and time to my communicator."


    Master Qin Si laughed heartily a few times and then ended the communication.


    Sure enough, before long, Qiu Tu''s communicator received an address from an unfamiliar number: Zhizhen Grand Hotel, Room 108, 8 p.m.


    "Zhizhen Grand Hotel?"


    Murmuring the name, before Qiu Tu could make a decision, his communicator rang again the very next second.


    This time too, it was a message from an unfamiliar number.

 Chapter 34 - 34 Getting on the Bandits Ship

    ```


    After glancing at the unfamiliar number, Qiu Tu clicked on the message.


    It contained only a brief sentence, "Agent Qiu, I have information you might be interested in. If you wish to cooperate, please come to Milan Grand Hotel at 8 p.m. tonight for a talk."


    Seeing this message, Qiu Tu stroked his chin and silently pondered.


    Which fish had taken the bait this time?


    City Hall? The military? The other branches of the Qin Family? Or perhaps an anti-government organization?


    Moreover, could this mysterious number have a connection to Qin Shuman? Or was it just an outsider?


    Because of the limited information, Qiu Tu could not determine it for the time being.


    However... what he could be sure of was that he now faced an intriguing choice:


    Master Qin Si or the mysterious person?


    Zhizhen Grand Hotel or Milan Grand Hotel?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze became unfathomable.....


    ...


    ....


    Time passed by the minute and second, and soon, several hours had flown by.


    7 p.m.


    At the entrance of Zhizhen Grand Hotel.


    Dressed in casual clothes and flanked by two confidants, Cao Dabiao swaggered in with a cigarette in his mouth.


    Seeing the trio, the tall receptionist hurried forward with a smile, bowed, and asked, "Hello, gentlemen, do you have a reservation?"


    With the cigarette in his mouth, Cao Dabiao arrogantly nodded, "Room 107."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, the receptionist said with a beaming smile, "Please wait a moment."


    After saying that, she took out the reservation list, checked it, and asked, "May I know if you are Mr. Cao?"


    Cao Dabiao nodded.


    The receptionist immediately smiled and gestured, "This way please," said, and then turned to lead the way.


    Following the receptionist, Cao Dabiao and his two confidants surreptitiously surveyed the layout of Zhizhen Grand Hotel with the corners of their eyes.


    They quickly arrived at the private room and entered.


    After looking around the interior decorations of the room, Cao Dabiao satisfiedly pulled out a 100-value Copper Yuan from his chest and handed it to the receptionist.


    The receptionist''s eyes lit up, and she excitedly stretched out her hand to catch it, but as Cao Dabiao caught a glimpse of the Copper Yuan in his hand, he quickly retracted it and took out a 10-value one to give to the receptionist instead.


    The receptionist''s smile vanished from her face; she accepted the money coolly, gave a polite bow to Cao Dabiao, and walked away, swaying her hips.


    Once the receptionist had left the room, Cao Dabiao and his men dropped their fa?ade.


    The two confidants approached Cao Dabiao and asked quietly, "Brother Biao, what are we doing here?"


    With no outsiders present, Cao Dabiao no longer acted so carelessly. He gestured towards the open door.


    One confidant skillfully went to close the door, and then Cao Dabiao said in a low voice, "We are here for a mission."


    He checked his watch and whispered, "At 8 o''clock, there will be a meeting between two parties in the next private room."


    "Our goal is to eavesdrop and capture images of both sides."


    After saying that, he signaled to the two confidants. They immediately understood, taking out several small devices from their clothes.


    Cao Dabiao put his arms around their necks and quietly arranged, "Later, Old Liu will go to the restroom. On his way back, he''ll ''accidentally'' enter the wrong room and install the bug next door."


    "Old Qi will go to the corridor to smoke. Once he sees the targets entering the private room, he''ll try to take photos with his camera."


    "If he can''t find the opportunity, then he must memorize the targets'' appearances well, so we can reconstruct their faces later."


    ```


    The two confidants nodded and took their orders.


    However, after taking the orders, Little Liu, who was sitting next to Cao Dabiao, suddenly realized something. Curiously, he asked, "So Brother Biao, what are you going to do?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao slapped him on the head and said irritably, "Are you stupid? Of course, I have to carry out the most arduous task¡ªordering the dishes!"


    After saying that, he grumbled, "I was called back halfway through dinner last night and starved for most of the night. Today I''m on official duty, so I must make up for it!"


    "Since Qiu Tu is paying, I might as well rip him off."


    Little Liu covered his head, his face a picture of realization.


    Meanwhile, Little Qi also asked curiously on the side, "By the way, Brother Biao, are we really going to follow Qiu Tu from now on?"


    At Little Qi''s question, Cao Dabiao''s expression began to change¡ªhe remembered a little episode from this afternoon.


    This afternoon, as he was happily counting his Silver Yuan, he suddenly received communication from a stranger.


    The person claimed to be one of Qiu Tu''s men, prepared to join the Political Department on Qiu Tu''s orders, and needed Cao Dabiao to give a recommendation.


    Hearing the introduction, Cao Dabiao''s first reaction was to doubt that the person was a scammer.


    But it quickly dawned on him: In the newly established Xinjie City, only public officials and some extremely wealthy or influential people had access to communicators.


    Scammers couldn''t get their hands on such devices.


    Moreover... not only did the person know his communicator number, but they also accurately addressed him by his name and department, which really didn''t seem like fraud.


    So, he went to Qiu Tu in a fog to confirm it.


    The scene from that time was still vivid in Cao Dabiao''s memory, even several hours later.


    When Cao Dabiao met Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu was sitting at a desk copying a document.


    After listening to Cao Dabiao''s account, Qiu Tu didn''t even lift his head to carelessly respond, "They''re my people, and I plan to have them join the Political Department. Help me with the recommendation."


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao''s expression really kept changing.


    He wanted to argue, like "If they''re your people, why don''t you recommend them?" or "Why do I have to be the one to recommend?"


    But he just accepted Qiu Tu''s money yesterday and had been under Qiu Tu''s control all this time, and it seemed he had no grounds to refuse, both emotionally and rationally.


    Thus, he could only put on a sham smile and get the task done. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, after the task was completed, Cao Dabiao felt more and more uneasy about it.


    He felt as if Qiu Tu had tied him to a crooked ship.


    The problem with the task wasn''t whether to do it, but how to do it! Qiu Tu had "executed before reporting," forcing him to get it done!


    He didn''t refuse this time, but would Qiu Tu continue to "execute before reporting" and force him to do other things in the future?


    One or two incidents were no big deal, but if this continued indefinitely, wouldn''t he become completely subservient to Qiu Tu?


    Realizing all of this, Cao Dabiao felt a cold sweat breaking out.


    He wanted to jump ship and stop playing along with Qiu Tu, but he couldn''t bear to do so.


    After all, he had just done a favor for Qiu Tu today and hadn''t yet reaped the benefits. If he were to fall out now, not only would his efforts have been in vain, but he would also have to face Qiu Tu''s wrath, and he might even have to return the 80 Silver Yuan!


    How could he be willing to let that happen!


    Humans are creatures that can comfort themselves. So after much deliberation, Cao Dabiao decided to wait and see...


    He thought: Maybe Qiu Tu wouldn''t do such things in the future? Maybe Qiu Tu could offer him more benefits...?


    Therefore, facing the question of his confidant, his answer was ambiguous, "Hmm... Let''s follow Qiu Tu for a bit, and we''ll see how it goes..."


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Cao Dabiao was investigating at the Zhizhen Grand Hotel.


    Qiu Tu had also come to the Milan Grand Hotel alone¡­

 Chapter 35 - 35 Security Department!

    Xinjie City was a Planning Area that had just been developed near the Eighth Sanctuary in the past two years.


    Material life was scarce, and living conditions were poor, with many basic infrastructures being cleaned up and rebuilt. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, several large hotels and restaurants had been established early on. After all, no matter how dire the life of the lower tiers was, the upper echelons still needed to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves...


    Walking into the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu felt like he had traveled through time and space.


    If he didn''t know that he was still in a world stricken by the Cataclysm, he would have thought he had traveled back to Earth and walked into a high-end four-star hotel.


    ¡ª¡ªThe tall ceiling was adorned with large crystal chandeliers, the floor was paved with high-quality marble, and the walls were decorated with exquisite reliefs or hanging calligraphy and paintings. Even the seating area was equipped with luxurious sofa sets.


    Although this caliber of hotel generally only catered to wealthy merchants and officials from the Sanctuary, the living environment was still somewhat exaggeratedly luxurious.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t gawk like a country bumpkin, but instead naturally took a seat in the lobby area, ordered a cup of tea, and began to wait patiently.


    He didn''t have to wait long. At 7:20 PM, 40 minutes before the scheduled time, a hotel waiter approached Qiu Tu and respectfully handed him an envelope.


    Qiu Tu looked up at him.


    "Sir," the waiter said reverently, "this was given to me by your friend to pass onto you."


    "My friend?" Qiu Tu raised his head and looked around but didn''t see anyone suspicious.


    He took the envelope with his hand. It was light and thin, as if it contained nothing substantial.


    After the waiter departed, Qiu Tu opened it to take a look.


    Inside, to his discovery, was a... room card.


    Room number 416.


    Qiu Tu toyed with the room card, an amused glint in his eyes.


    Having finished his tea, Qiu Tu picked up the room card and stood up to walk towards the elevator.


    He pressed the elevator button, and soon the elevator doors opened.


    Qiu Tu stepped inside.


    While the elevator ascended, Qiu Tu touched his waist and felt the reassuring presence of his service pistol still holstered there.


    Before departing, Qiu Tu had already checked his handgun, adjusted it to a ready state, and disengaged the safety.


    This allowed him to fire at a moment''s notice should danger arise.


    The elevator ascended level by level, and quickly stopped at the fourth floor.


    With the opening of the elevator doors, Qiu Tu cautiously observed the surroundings before stepping out.


    Since Xinjie City was newly established, the business environment was still comparatively poor, leading to a low overall occupancy rate for the hotel, and Qiu Tu encountered no other guests as he made his way to room 416.


    Upon reaching the door, Qiu Tu tentatively knocked, but there was no response from within.


    He hesitated for a moment before swiping the room card.


    The sound of the door lock turning emanated from within, and Qiu Tu pushed the door open.


    Inside the room, a young man with a square face dressed in plain clothes was standing by the window, looking at him.


    "You are...?" Qiu Tu stepped into the room, closed the door behind him, and inquired tentatively as he observed the young man.


    The young man pulled out an ID from his pocket and showed it to Qiu Tu. "Hello, Agent Qiu, let me introduce myself. I am Lin Zuo, Deputy Staff Chief of the Investigation Department from the Security Department."


    "The reason for the presumptuous invitation today is to request your cooperation with our work."


    At Lin Zuo''s introduction, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted slightly.


    Security Department...?


    If it were the former Qiu Tu, he probably would have been clueless at the mention of the "Security Department," given it wasn''t a high-profile department.


    But having spent the last few days with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu had gleaned much covert information from her, including details about the Security Department...


    The Security Department, officially known as the Department of Security Protection and Secret Investigation, was a confidential division under the military.


    Its primary roles were to combat anti-government armed forces and handle crisis events.


    More importantly, secret affairs related to Cataclysm Awakening also fell under this department''s jurisdiction.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, everyone in the department was elite, and many were Cataclysmics.


    Additionally, since the members of this department were selected directly from the Sanctuary and not recruited from the various Planning Areas, their combat capabilities were said to be unmatched by any department within the Planning Areas.


    However, why would such a formidable department seek him out?


    Was it because of the commotion he had stirred up recently, drawing their attention and interest, or was it... that Qin Shuman''s background was connected to this department?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also asked tentatively, "What does Section Chief Lin need my assistance with? And why seek me out?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s probing, Lin Zuo said, "Actually, we have been monitoring the key members of the Qin Family for the past six months."


    "So when the United Front attacked you and Qin Shuman, we likewise took notice of you."


    "Later, we discovered the Investigation Bureau seemed to be investigating the Qin Family as well, even transferring you to the Political Department specifically for this matter, so we hesitated over whether to make contact."


    "It wasn''t until yesterday when you ostentatiously moved a team of Political Department Investigators into the Qin household that we felt things might be getting out of hand, prompting us to make an urgent connection with you."


    "The reason for inviting you over is to both communicate and exchange intelligence and to discuss our respective operational scopes to prevent mutual interference leading to the failure of our missions..."


    Lin Zuo''s reasons were well-founded and outwardly beyond reproach, but... Qiu Tu just didn''t trust them...


    He probed again, "Section Chief Lin seems very well-informed about the current situation in the Qin household. Have you planted a spy there?"


    Lin Zuo''s expression remained unchanged, "I apologize, Agent Qiu. That is a secret of the Security Department and I regret I cannot disclose it."


    Qiu Tu was not offended; his mind raced. "Alright then, I won''t ask about that. Let''s get right to the crux of our potential cooperation."


    He said, "I recall Section Chief Lin mentioned in the text message that you have information that would interest me. Might I inquire what information Section Chief Lin believes would pique my interest?"

 Chapter 36 - 36 The Secret of the Qin Family

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo looked at him expressionlessly, just like that.


    Moments later, he sighed and said, "Agent Qiu, we both belong to the secrecy departments, and should know that some intelligence can be shared, while some cannot."


    "We genuinely want to cooperate with you, so please stop probing us."


    Qiu Tu looked at Lin Zuo and was not easily sidetracked, speaking earnestly, "Section Chief Lin, I understand the difficulties you face. But I''m not actually trying to make you break any rules."


    At this point, he paused, then provided a very legitimate reason,


    "We are, after all, in the business of exchanging information, so I think it would be beneficial for us to first understand what kind of intelligence each side can offer."


    "This will not only allow both parties to more effectively assess the value of intelligence and reach cooperation but also avoid the risk of intelligence leakage after discovering that the shared information doesn''t meet our needs."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo fell into deep thought.


    After a moment, he made up his mind.


    "You make sense."


    "Then I''ll just speak frankly. We can provide you with clues about the Qin Family''s secret collusion with the United Front and evidence of benefit exchanges between the Qin Family and several members of City Hall."


    Upon hearing Lin Zuo''s words, a smile couldn''t help but form at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth: Success...


    In fact, the reason he had been persistently focusing on this topic was to verify something: whether the Security Department approaching him had anything to do with Qin Shuman.


    After all... the work scope of the Political Department only covers espionage, counterespionage, and internal supervision.


    So to outsiders, Qiu Tu''s placement in the Qin Family had only one purpose, which was to investigate the Qin Family, especially whether Qin Zhengguang (of the second house) was involved in any illegal or undisciplined acts.


    Although Master Qin Si provided Qiu Tu with some clues about Qin Zhengguang''s collusion with anti-government armed forces and gangs, they all fundamentally fell within the Political Department''s sphere of "internal supervision."


    But Lin Zuo was different. The intelligence he offered to Qiu Tu was about the "Qin Family''s collusion with the United Front" and "benefit exchanges with City Hall" which suggests that he was indeed fully aware of Qiu Tu''s [real purpose] for staying with the Qin Family.


    However, it should be noted that in the entire Xinjie City, only Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and Qin Shuman were privy to Qiu Tu''s true purpose at the Qin Residence.


    Even his own people like Ah-Tai and Eagle were not given the slightest hint by Qiu Tu.


    So how did the Security Department come by this information?


    Thus, the answer is seemingly apparent.


    ''I didn''t expect Qin Shuman to keep such a deep cover...''


    While he silently marveled to himself, Qiu Tu subtly nodded in agreement, confirming the cooperation with the Security Department, "Section Chief Lin, I am very satisfied with the intelligence you provided, so I agree to exchange intelligence with you."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu took out the intelligence he had copied that afternoon, exchanged it with Lin Zuo, and they had a brief discussion.


    The overlapping information between the two was not substantial, and the clues in Qiu Tu''s hands were mainly four points.


    1. Qin Zhengguang (of the second house) has a problem with benefit exchanges with the underground Fierce Tiger Gang.


    2. Qin Zhengguang has been secretly collaborating with the United Front.


    3. Two months ago, Qin Zhengguang released a batch of suspects, among whom were members of the United Front.


    4. Qin Zhengguang skimmed medicines from black markets he controlled, then sold them at high prices to anti-government groups.


    Lin Zuo, on the other hand, had some clues about the Qin Family''s collusion with various forces.


    For example, the Qin Family had dealings with the United Front even before Xinjie City was established, maintaining business in human trafficking, medicines, and weapons.


    For instance, during the planning stages of Xinjie City, the Qin Family had very close interactions with Yan Chen.


    Such as after the establishment of Xinjie City, the Qin Family engaged in some gray business with several members of City Hall in private, using these gray businesses to transfer benefits to those members.


    Such as the Qin Family''s underground dealings being anonymous, meaning any power could use vouchers to pick up and sell goods without verifying identities, making many underground organizations and anti-government armed forces their clients.


    After comparing each other''s clues and evidence, Qiu Tu and Lin Zuo keenly noticed an interesting point.


    Lin Zuo, "All your clues relate to the Qin Family''s second house?"


    Qiu Tu, "All your clues relate to the entire Qin Family?"


    The two exchanged a glance, then smiled at each other.


    Qiu Tu explained, "The Political Department''s jurisdiction is internal supervision, so its main target is naturally the Qin Family''s second house."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu asked, "But the evidence you have involves the entire Qin Family?"


    He paused, then probed with a question, "Is it that you haven''t examined the details, or do you think the entire Qin Family is problematic?"


    Lin Zuo said, "It''s that the whole Qin Family might be problematic."


    His gaze was firm. "Don''t forget that Old Master Qin has just passed away."


    "Before Old Master Qin died, all four houses of the Qin Family had already begun handling their affairs and cooperating with each other."


    "So, in terms of collusion with the United Front and the transfer of medicines and materials, they are likely all involved." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After hearing Lin Zuo''s explanation, Qiu Tu nodded thoughtfully...


    And so, in the following hour, Qiu Tu and Lin Zuo fully exchanged their respective departments'' views and then reached a basic consensus, Qiu Tu would act openly, while the Security Department would work behind the scenes, with both sides jointly investigating and sharing information.


    If in the end, no issues were found, they would keep each other''s secrets.


    If they really could take down the entire Qin Family, then the credit would be shared equally.


    After finalizing their discussions, the two men clasped hands firmly together.


    Thus, the cooperation was set, and Lin Zuo escorted Qiu Tu out the door.


    Upon reaching the door, Qiu Tu suddenly stopped, then turned back to give Lin Zuo a smile and said, "Give my regards to your superior."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo visibly started, his brain whirring. After a moment, he nodded with a smile.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu turned with satisfaction and headed towards the elevator.


    He wasn''t bluffing Lin Zuo, but had genuinely guessed that there were others behind Lin Zuo.


    The reason was quite simple:


    Even though the military and the Investigation Bureau are separate systems, their rank structures correspond.


    Starting with temporary investigators, temporary commissioners, and then rising to Third-Level Detective (Third-Level Commissioner), Second-Class Investigator (Second-Level Commissioner), and First-Level Detective (First-Level Commissioner) in succession.


    After First-Level Detective, management roles follow; these would be Investigator and Senior Investigator at the operational level, and at the office, they would be Deputy Staff and Section Chief.


    So, in terms of rank, Lin Zuo''s position as Deputy Staff was in fact a whole level higher than that of Qiu Tu. Moreover, one was a manager while the other was a lower-level employee.


    Therefore, according to the principle of equal inter-departmental cooperation, if the Security Department wanted to liaise with Qiu Tu, the person to approach him should not have been Lin Zuo, but someone subordinate to Lin Zuo.


    Yet now Lin Zuo was stooping to make contact with Qiu Tu, which could only mean one thing: that the task was pressed down by his superiors, and furthermore, Lin Zuo''s superiors had specifically requested that he personally take on this assignment.

 Chapter 37 - 37 Qin Shuman Died?

    "So... Qin Shuman''s contact person is at least a department head with real power from a secret department?"


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s eyes looked a bit peculiar...


    He felt he might have underestimated this woman.


    He had originally thought she was nothing more than an insignificant piece among several forces, but it turned out she was quite substantial?


    As for whether Qin Shuman could be from the Security Department, Qiu Tu felt it was highly unlikely.


    After all... unless Qin Shuman was Lin Zuo''s boss, personally in charge of this matter. Otherwise, even if she was also a deputy head, there was no reason for Lin Zuo to come forward and make the contact for her.


    Half an hour later.


    "Yes, you guessed it, I am Lin Zuo''s boss."


    Looking at Qin Shuman''s stunningly beautiful face, Qiu Tu: ...


    He raised his hand to stop Qin Shuman from continuing to speak and said with a troubled face, "Wait a moment, let me sort this out first."


    After saying this, he hurriedly recalled the events of the past half-hour.


    Half an hour earlier, after finishing the discussion about cooperation with Lin Zuo, Qiu Tu returned to the Qin Family from the Milan Grand Hotel.


    At the base of the Security Team, Qiu Tu first inquired about Cao Dabiao''s situation.


    Upon learning that Cao Dabiao had not returned to the unit, he didn''t wait any further but went straight to find Qin Shuman, intending to probe her background.


    Qin Shuman seemed to be waiting for him too, so the two hit it off and went to the bar where they had drinks the night before to continue their chat.


    Due to his habit of deceiving others, after finishing the discussion about Lin Zuo with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu casually tested her by saying, "Actually, if you wanted to cooperate with me, there was no need for your subordinate to approach me."


    "Is there anything we can''t talk about between us?"


    Originally, Qiu Tu just wanted to bluff, but who knew that Qin Shuman would actually admit it straight away...


    ....


    Struggling to pull his thoughts back to a normal track, Qiu Tu, by the light of the bar, looked at the beautiful woman before him and seriously analyzed the possibility that she was Lin Zuo''s boss.


    But... no matter how he analyzed it, he found there were too many holes in this idea.


    So, after hitting a dead end with that line of thought, he looked at Qin Shuman with a peculiar expression and said, "You''re not pulling my leg, are you?"


    Having seen Qiu Tu calculating behind the scenes many times, Qin Shuman burst into laughter for the first time seeing Qiu Tu off guard, shaking with laughter.


    After laughing, she regained her composure, sighed, and then spoke lightly, "Actually, don''t say you don''t believe it. Even if you told Lin Zuo everything now, he probably wouldn''t believe it."


    Qiu Tu was dizzy with confusion by Qin Shuman and looked at her with a perplexed face. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Qin Shuman suddenly asked a question, "Qiu Tu, do you remember the question I asked you last night: Do you believe that a person can suddenly become someone else?"


    Qiu Tu''s keenly caught the hidden meaning in Qin Shuman''s words, his eyes narrowed slightly, "What do you mean? You are not the former Qin Shuman?"


    Qin Shuman nodded.


    She leaned against the bar''s counter, looking at Qiu Tu, and then spoke softly, "You have been in contact with the young girl Shen Lingshuang these past few days, you should be aware of the Cataclysmics, right?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Qin Shuman took a sip of her drink, "Actually... I am a Cataclysmic."


    "Or rather, once was a Cataclysmic."


    Her gaze was filled with memories and melancholy, "My original identity was the head of the Investigation Department of the Security Section in the military, codenamed Rain Butterfly."


    "My Cataclysmic path was Mystery. And the ability I gained from the Cataclysm was ''Control Possession.''"


    "This ability allowed me to remote control the person I possessed. Not only could I attach myself to her body and communicate with her mind from a distance, observing her thoughts, but I could also forcibly control her body."


    "It was a very powerful ability."


    "And Qin Shuman... or rather, the original Qin Shuman was one of the people I had possessed."


    "She was a very kind and adorable young girl. Despite having a tragic background and her short life being nothing but a plaything for some big shot, she was still very positive and optimistic."


    "Perhaps because she was so lonely, even though I wasn''t friendly towards her, she always treated me as a friend, regularly chatting with me and sometimes even helping me investigate certain matters on her own initiative."


    "Everything was going well until you..." At this point, Qin Shuman glanced at Qiu Tu, paused, and added, "Or should I say your predecessor."


    Qin Shuman said, "She fell in love with your predecessor at first sight. Just a few days together, and they had fallen deeply in love..."


    Qin Shuman sighed, "I was quite busy at the time and didn''t possess her, so I had no idea this was happening."


    "So, when I possessed her one day to see how she was doing, I discovered that things had already gone too far..."


    "I was truly terrified at the time. Not because I was worried something might happen to her, cutting off this source of information, but because I knew that Yan Chen, with his personality, would never let them off the hook if he discovered their affair."


    "So, I tried my best to discourage her, wanting her to give up. But she showed a determination she never had before."


    "I still remember the words she said to me back then."


    "She said, ''Sister Rain Butterfly, I only have a short five years to live, and to meet someone I like is really too difficult. I don''t want, when after I die, to only remember being under a man covered in fat...''"


    "I didn''t know how to persuade her, and could only watch as the two of them moved closer to the abyss step by step."


    "And then... until that day."


    At this point, Qin Shuman covered her face with her hands and said in agony, "That day, after finishing my official duties, because I was worried about her, I wanted to see how she was doing recently."


    "But who would have known that when I used my ability and possessed her, I discovered she and your predecessor were lying naked in bed, their bodies still breathing, but their souls were completely shattered."


    "I was startled and wanted to flee. Suddenly, a pain that pierced into the soul hit me, and I completely lost consciousness."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s eyes were filled with sorrow, "And when I woke up, it was when you suddenly pushed yourself on top of me."


    "I was terrified at that moment. I wanted to resist, but I simply couldn''t."


    She sighed, "It was only then that I realized I had become ''her''."


    "I went from the third-person perspective of possession to the first-person perspective. From being able to disconnect the possession at any time to ''Permanent Possession.''


    "So, although I didn''t know what had happened, I had no choice but to take it one step at a time and first pretend to be her."


    "Fortunately, I had often observed her life and communicated with her frequently before, and coupled with the residual habits of her body, besides those close to her, no one else could really tell."


    At this, she had a distant look in her eyes, "Of course, she didn''t have many close people."


    "Except... your predecessor."


    After listening to Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu''s mouth slowly opened, and it took a long time for him to snap back to reality.

 Chapter 38 - 38: The Magic Reality (Please follow the story!)

    Qiu Tu felt that his worldview had received a great shock, as everything that had happened to him since he traveled through time seemed to have been overturned by Qin Shuman''s story.


    He quickly reenacted the whole story according to the truth Qin Shuman had revealed.


    As a result, well... it was surprisingly consistent.


    Qiu Tu was a bit dazed.


    He felt this was all too magical, right?


    So, what exactly happened that day? Why did not only he travel through time, but Qin Shuman also got trapped in this body?


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu was questioning his life, Qin Shuman began to speak.


    Her red lips lightly touched the edge of the cup, her eyes carrying a hint of mystery and a teasing smile as she asked, "Qiu Tu, I''ve told you my entire identity. Isn''t it your turn to be honest with me and tell me your story?"


    Speaking, she propped up her cheek, looking at Qiu Tu with a playful gaze, "Who are you really? And why are you trapped in the same body as I am?" S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Hearing this question, Qiu Tu reflexively wanted to lie, to gloss over the details. But upon seeing Qin Shuman''s gaze, he hesitated for a moment.


    What kind of eyes were they?


    Bewilderment, melancholy, indecision... and a faint glimmer of hope hidden deep within...


    In that instant, Qiu Tu felt as though he understood the beautiful woman before him:


    A proud daughter of the Sanctuary, suddenly trapped in a cloned female body with only two years of life left and stuck in a crisis.


    Unsure if she could return to her original body, uncertain of the fate of this body, and unaware if her soul would dissipate along with this body''s demise. She must feel incredibly desperate, right?


    And then, at this time, she discovers that there is someone beside her with a similar experience...


    In that moment, the desperation in her heart must have subsided quite a bit, right?


    It was like¡­ one lonely soul encountering another...


    That''s why she relied on him so much.


    Because... he might be the last ray of light in her life...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then softly said, "I... might have a situation even more complicated than yours."


    "I did indeed enter this body after its previous owner died."


    "But... I am not a person of Xinjie, I don''t even know where Xinjie City is."


    "I also don''t know why I entered this body."


    "If it weren''t for the memories I discovered after I entered his body, I probably wouldn''t even be able to pretend."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman gently swirled her wine glass, her face breaking into a bright smile, "I knew my feeling was right. We are the same kind."


    Saying this, she raised her glass to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu smiled, picked up his glass, and clinked it with hers.


    "Ding~" A clear sound rang out.


    Both looked into each other''s eyes, draining their glasses in one gulp.


    In that moment, they both felt as if the distance between them had narrowed considerably...


    After drinking a few more glasses, Qiu Tu, emboldened by the alcohol, broached the topic he was most interested in, "Have you thought about returning to your original body?"


    Qin Shuman gently stroked the rim of her glass, her gaze hazy, her breath fragrant, "Of course, I have."


    "In fact... I''ve already tried all the methods I can think of over the past few days, but all have failed."


    "Otherwise, I wouldn''t be so dejected."


    Qiu Tu sighed softly and asked, "Have you considered asking for help from the military or the Security Department?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head lightly, "There are several Cataclysmics in the Security Department, and I''m very aware of what abilities they possess. But... they can''t help me."


    Her eyes revealed exhaustion, "As for the military, they won''t bother with me."


    Qiu Tu was curious, "Why not?"


    Qin Shuman looked deeply into his eyes, "Have you forgotten what my identity is now?"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu was first stunned, then realized he had asked a rather foolish question:


    Qin Shuman''s predecessor was Yan Chen''s mistress. Was Qin Shuman''s possession of her body really just to investigate the Qin Family, as Lin Zuo had revealed?


    Impossible!


    To investigate the Qin Family, why not choose another point of entry?


    With the Qin Family being so powerful, which entry point wouldn''t be better than a Cloned Female Body created by the Qin Family, who stayed by Yan Chen''s side every day?


    Therefore, the reason Qin Shuman chose to possess the body of Yan Chen''s mistress was actually to investigate Yan Chen himself.


    That is to say, Yan Chen was the original target of the Security Department.


    But who is Yan Chen? He''s the highest-ranking official of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. He''s also one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, alongside General Ye from the military!


    If the Security Department conducted a private investigation of such a big shot and something went wrong, whether it was General Ye or the head of the Security Department, they would immediately disassociate themselves and declare it as "Qin Shuman''s personal behavior."


    In the face of such significant issues, no one would risk causing a clash between two major departments just for a minor section chief.


    Nor would anyone secretly take Qin Shuman away for treatment: whose predecessor was Yan Chen''s mistress, who in their right mind would try to take her away without Yan Chen''s knowledge?


    So that''s why Qin Shuman felt so desperate.


    Because she discovered that whether she looked forward or back, there was no way out....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also fell silent.


    After quietly contemplating for a while, he finally said, "So, only by taking down Yan Chen, will you be accepted back by the military and get their help to treat you?"


    Qin Shuman spread her hands, "There''s just a slight hope. After all, no one really knows how to reverse our condition."


    "Maybe... it will naturally recover over time?"


    "Maybe it requires some special Cataclysmic using their powers in a certain way to restore me?"


    "Maybe... it needs some precious Cataclysm Prop?"


    "Or maybe... it will never be restored in this lifetime."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman''s gaze dimmed, "Moreover, even if there really is a way in this world that could cure me, this body''s lifespan is too short. I might not be able to wait that long."


    Possibly affected by Qin Shuman''s mood, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but sigh deeply upon hearing her words.


    He consoled her, "In fact, thinking so much is rather pointless. We are already walking on a tightrope; who knows, maybe we will be eliminated by Yan Chen before the lifespan of this body even ends."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman also smiled. She toasted with a tipsy gesture, "Right. That''s why I''ve come to terms with it, to enjoy life while I can!"


    "Enjoy life while you can~"


    ...


    After getting Qin Shuman drunk again, Qiu Tu looked complexly as the maid helped this pitiful woman into the bedroom, and then he turned and left the courtyard house.


    Perhaps because of their similar experiences, Qiu Tu felt a great deal of sympathy for Qin Shuman.


    He thought, if there was a chance, he should try to help this woman.


    After all, she was a section chief of the Security Department; capturing her could be very useful...

 Chapter 39 - 39 The Dirty Qin Family (Please Follow!)

    As for the method of assisting Qin Shuman, it was quite straightforward. The first was through "connections," and the second was through the "Golden Finger."


    Regarding connections, Qiu Tu planned to find an opportunity to have a sidelong chat with Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang''s father was a high-ranking official in the Sanctuary, and she was a Pharmacist herself. It was very likely that she knew how to help Qin Shuman.


    And if Shen Lingshuang didn''t have a way to help Qin Shuman, then Qiu Tu still had his Golden Finger.


    His current Golden Finger, "Crisis Intuition," would reward him each time he got through a crisis. Perhaps it contained an item that could solve Qin Shuman''s predicament.


    Even if "Crisis Intuition" couldn''t aid Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu could also try to refresh other Golden Fingers to see if there was any way to help Qin Shuman.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu suddenly had a goal in mind.


    For this first woman he had met after crossing over, the first woman with whom he had shared a skin-to-skin bond, knowing her tragic fate, Qiu Tu didn''t feel nobly obliged to be responsible for her life, but he still wanted to rescue her as much as he could...


    Moreover, Qiu Tu knew that this was not just him being unilaterally sentimental¡ªQin Shuman was in fact also trying to find a way to save herself.


    After learning about the real objectives of the Security Department, Qiu Tu immediately guessed that today''s meeting with Lin Zuo was most likely an arrangement made by Qin Shuman on her own initiative.


    The purpose was simple, to provide him with more information about the Qin Family, to prevent himself from being sold out by Master Qin Si.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu exhaled deeply. Indeed, it''s hard to repay a beautiful woman''s favor...


    ...


    Upon returning to the Security Team''s base, Cao Dabiao and his two companions had already come back. They reeked of alcohol and had eaten until their bellies were round.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao approached with a flattering smile and said softly, "Commander, I''ve taken care of the task you gave me."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu glanced at his drunken state and gestured, "Let''s talk inside."


    Cao Dabiao staggered and followed him in.


    Inside the room, Qiu Tu brewed a pot of tea and poured a cup for Cao Dabiao.


    Cao Dabiao, belly bulging, waved his hands repeatedly, "No more, no more, I''ve drunk my fill."


    Qiu Tu looked at him and chided with a laugh, "You really don''t hold back when it''s on the public dime, do you?"


    Cao Dabiao chuckled, "Well, the Investigation Bureau reimburses it, so why not spend it if it''s there?"


    Qiu Tu knew he was probing, so he offered reassurance, "As long as it helps solve the case, spend what must be spent. If the money''s not enough, I''ll apply for more!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s assertive words, Cao Dabiao genuinely smiled. He then took out an envelope and passed it to Qiu Tu with both hands, "Commander, here is what we''ve gathered tonight."


    Qiu Tu responded with a "hmm," as he reached for the envelope and sat down.


    He opened the envelope and started going through the documents inside, page by page.


    It had to be said that Cao Dabiao, capable of becoming a First Level Detective of the Political Department, possessed certain skills. The documents not only detailed all the pertinent conversations from room 108 that night in text but also differentiated and marked the individuals involved in the dialogue.


    For example, a total of seven people had entered room 108 that night, with the main conversation occurring between a crew-cut young man and an elderly man in black.


    And on the first page of the file, simple sketches of the two men''s faces were attached.


    Though their identities weren''t labeled... it was enough for Qiu Tu to get a rough idea of who these two men were.


    In addition to the paper files, the archive bag also contained original audio tapes and undeveloped film rolls, so Qiu Tu was very satisfied with Cao Dabiao''s work for tonight''s mission.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu was not stingy with his praise. He glanced at Cao Dabiao and smiled, "Brother Biao has a knack for this. The information is very comprehensive."


    After speaking, he continued to review the materials and asked, "Was there anything worth noting during tonight''s surveillance? What are your thoughts?"


    Cao Dabiao had clearly prepared in advance. Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, he pointed to his drunken face with a flattering smile and said, "Sir, while I was monitoring, I was busy eating and drinking, so I didn''t really pay much attention."


    "For the specifics, you''ll need to take a look yourself."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave Cao Dabiao a look. Seeing that his expression remained unchanged, Qiu Tu immediately knew he was deliberately playing dumb.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t annoyed. He quickly sorted through the information and then understood why Cao Dabiao was playing fool...


    It was simple¡ªbecause Cao Dabiao had discovered that tonight''s incident was a bit too sensitive, involving not only the middle ranks of the Investigation Bureau but also the Qin Family, a Major Clan.


    He couldn''t afford to offend the "Mystery" that was Qiu Tu, but neither could he afford to offend Qin Zhengguang and the Qin Family.


    So, although he had recorded everything very meticulously tonight, he had deliberately drunk a lot of alcohol, using intoxication as an excuse to feign ignorance.


    This was a common self-preservation tactic employed by the small folk in these chaotic times.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t make things difficult for him; he waved his hand and let him go to rest.


    After carefully reviewing all the materials and playing back the audio tapes to listen to all the conversations in the private room, Qiu Tu sat in the chair with his eyes closed, his fingers gently tapping on the table.


    The content of the materials and audio recordings was simple: representatives of two forces were negotiating.


    From the way they addressed each other, one side was a captain from the United Front (a man with a buzz cut), and the other was a steward from the Qin Family (an elder in black clothes).


    As for which branch of the family this steward belonged to, it was not clear from the recordings, but... the likelihood was that he was from the second branch.


    The purpose of the negotiation between the two parties was also straightforward¡ªit was about a drug trade.


    In these chaotic times, besides gold, the most valuable and scarce commodities were drugs and weapons.


    Therefore, in the face of the United Front, the Qin Family demanded a price far above the market rate and also made a series of other harsh demands.


    For example, they required the United Front to cooperate with the Public Security Bureau''s certain operations to help Director Qin gain merit; for another, they requested that part of the payment be made in young women or boys around two to three years old, and so on.


    Although the Sanctuary controlled the Planning Area, most of the world was still a Disaster Zone. In the Disaster Zones, many ordinary people lived in dire straits. The Qin Family could not scour these Disaster Zones for people, but the United Front could.


    The young women scavenged by them could be sent to the Qin Family''s underground brothel, earning the Qin Family exorbitant profits; the young boys, on the other hand, were to be groomed from a young age as private soldiers or enforcers...


    After listening to all the recordings, Qiu Tu''s gaze became profound. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Qin Family''s filthy dealings reminded him of the days when he had been sold to Northern Myanmar in his past life.


    In the eyes of the scamming groups and the Qin Family, people were never "people" but "goods."


    "Truly despicable..."


    Qiu Tu murmured softly and then his brain started to work rapidly, pondering how to deal with the Qin Family...


    Soon, he reached a decision...

 Chapter 40 - 40 The Political Department Has No Wrong Cases

    Having placed the material into the file bag, Qiu Tu carried the file bag to the study.


    Inside the study, there was a safe.


    He turned the dial, opened the safe, and Qiu Tu took out a small booklet¡ªthis was the original evidence given to him by Master Qin Si.


    Placing the booklet on the desk, Qiu Tu proceeded to take out several other paper documents from the safe. These were the reports from the investigations and evidence verification conducted by the teams led by Chen Feng and four others in the past two days.


    He placed these along with the file bag onto the desk and bent over his desk to transcribe all the intelligence Lin Zuo had told him that day.


    Half an hour later, looking at the several pieces of information laid out before him on the desk, the corners of Qiu Tu''s mouth curled into a smile.


    Whether the plan would work or not, would be seen tomorrow....


    ....


    [4 days (The latest deadline to obtain evidence of the Qin Family''s guilt)]


    [7:59:41 (Time available to create the Cataclysmic Potion)]


    The night passed without incident.


    The next day, Qiu Tu got up early, freshened up, and then went to report to Qin Shuman.


    Having slept through the night, Qin Shuman was noticeably in a better mood. And perhaps because she was in the company of outsiders, she reverted back to her innocent and na?ve persona: her large eyes revealed a transparency and foolishness that one could see through at a glance.


    But Qiu Tu did not dare to underestimate this woman.


    After all, she was not only the chief of a secret department, but she also possessed supernatural powers as a Cataclysmic.


    Although she had made herself sound quite pitiable the night before, and while Qiu Tu did indeed plan to lend her a hand if he had the chance, it was still essential to maintain a degree of caution.


    In this dog-eat-dog world, to trust someone completely was to make a mockery of one''s own life.


    After chatting with Qin Shuman for a while and arranging her duty roster for the day, Qiu Tu left the courtyard, ready to head to the Investigation Bureau.


    However, just as he left the courtyard and hadn''t yet walked far, Qiu Tu''s communicator rang: a call from Master Qin Si.


    Qiu Tu''s steps faltered slightly, and then he continued walking out unobtrusively while answering the communicator.


    Once the communicator connected, the cheerful voice of Master Qin Si came through the receiver, "Did Agent Qiu make any gains last night?"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Quite substantial, indeed."


    "I also have to thank you, Fourth Master, for the clues and help provided, which finally allowed me to advance this case."


    Master Qin Si was clearly surprised by the response, "That fast?"


    He probed, "Did they provide Agent Qiu with critical evidence last night?"


    As Qiu Tu walked, he explained with a chuckle, "Fourth Master has misunderstood. The Political Department and other departments of the Investigation Bureau are not the same."


    "Other departments conduct their investigations with the presumption of innocence, investigating first before arresting suspects."


    "However, due to its special nature, the Political Department operates on the presumption of guilt. As soon as we have a lead, we can directly arrest and investigate."


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si couldn''t help but ask, "What if you arrest the wrong person?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu burst into laughter, "Arrest the wrong person? How is that possible? The Political Department has been free of wrongful convictions since its establishment."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s voice dropped, "Otherwise, why would the floor of the Political Department''s interrogation room always be black and red....."


    Even as a major underworld figure, in that instant, Master Qin Si felt a chill run down his spine.


    But in the next second, he was laughing heartily again, "Then I''ll be waiting for Agent Qiu''s good news."


    After he finished speaking, he was ready to hang up the phone.


    But just then, Qiu Tu interjected, "Fourh Master, don''t hurry. Let''s chat a bit more."


    Qiu Tu paused, then said, "As you know, Fourth Master, I have dozens of people under me. These past few days, we''ve been busy running around, putting a lot of effort into handling this matter, you say..."


    Master Qin Si was startled, then he understood and burst into laughter, "Agent Qiu is really straightforward. Rest assured, the Qin Family has noticed all the effort you''ve put into contributing to Xinjie City."


    "Later on, someone will send some gifts of gratitude to your room. Make sure to accept them with a smile when the time comes!"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Then I must thank Fourth Master! Rest assured, as public servants, we will definitely do our best to handle each case."


    "And not let any criminals escape justice!" Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si hung up the phone, still smiling.


    At this moment, as Qiu Tu heard the "beep... beep..." from the communicator, the smile on his face slowly faded.


    He expressionlessly put the communicator back into his pocket and left the Qin family residence without lingering, carrying the documents with him...


    ....


    No sooner had he stepped out of the Qin family''s gate than a brand-new black sedan pulled up in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and cocked his head towards the car.


    The window of the rear seat slowly rolled down, revealing the face of Qin Zhengguang, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau from the Investigation Bureau''s second largest family, the Qin Clan. He sat in the car, his gaze deep as he looked at Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu''s expression remained unchanged, and he greeted with a smile, "Good day, Chief."


    Qin Zhengguang, with slicked-back hair and dressed in a black suit, exuded an aura of unspoken authority.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s greeting, he responded with an indifferent "Hmm" and then looked straight ahead, asking faintly, "Agent Qiu seems to be quite busy with official duties recently? Going out frequently?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "The tasks from the Political Department are indeed heavy, so even when we go out on missions, we have to work overtime."


    Qin Zhengguang said indifferently, "No matter how heavy the tasks, work needs to be meticulous. Don''t jump to conclusions based on rumors. Be careful that in trying to investigate others, you don''t trap yourself and end up in trouble."


    Qiu Tu continued to smile, "Thank you for the concern, Director. But I only have this one sorry life, so I''m not afraid of getting trapped."


    Qin Zhengguang, after hearing this, took a deep look at Qiu Tu and then snorted coldly, looking at the driver and was about to tell the driver to go.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke up again, asking curiously, "Where is Director Qin heading to?"


    Qin Zhengguang glanced at Qiu Tu with the corner of his eye, and replied emotionlessly, "To the Bureau."


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "That''s perfect, I''m also headed to the Bureau. Please, Director Qin, let me hitch a ride."


    After saying this, he casually opened the front passenger door, sat down comfortably, and complained, "Having a car is really amazing! If I didn''t have a car, I''d have to change vehicles three times and walk for more than ten minutes from the Qin residence to the Bureau, which is really inconvenient."


    Qin Zhengguang: ??


    Watching Qiu Tu close the door and even skillfully adjust the back of the seat, Qin Zhengguang initially was puzzled, followed by a prolonged silence:.....


    The driver looked back at him, a bit helplessly seeking guidance, and after two seconds of silence, he finally nodded.


    However, after nodding, he shifted to the side-- the adjustment Qiu Tu had made to the seat back squished the space where he was sitting quite a bit...


    And so, the car slowly moved along the bumpy roads of Xinjie City, heading towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Qin Zhengguang initially thought Qiu Tu got in the car to discuss some secret topic with him, but as he waited throughout the ride, Qiu Tu not only didn''t say a word, but even fell asleep...


    This left him completely baffled and even more at a loss as to what exactly Qiu Tu was up to.

 Chapter 41 - 41: Great Favor

    Actually, as soon as Qiu Tu had led his team into the Qin Family residence, Qin Zhengguang had already secretly investigated Qiu Tu.


    After all, the arrival of a First Level Detective from the Political Department at his family clan was a political signal far too sensitive.


    Adding to that, the rumors within the Bureau about "Qiu Tu holding old grudges against the Qin Family" made him exceedingly careful.


    So, he meticulously looked into Qiu Tu.


    He discovered that... Qiu Tu and the Qin Family had almost no interactions, nor any grievances.


    This suddenly left Qin Zhengguang somewhat perplexed.


    Therefore, he began to investigate the source of the rumors claiming "Qiu Tu bore a grudge against the Qin Family."


    In the end, the investigation circled back to Yan Chen and Secretary Bai.


    But the problem was... during the investigation into Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang found out that Qiu Tu was Secretary Bai''s man. It was precisely because of Secretary Bai''s trust that Qiu Tu was able to cling to Yan Chen''s powerful coattails.


    Now, as Qiu Tu came to investigate the Qin Family, were Secretary Bai and Yan Chen pulling his legs??


    But... wasn''t it Yan Chen who had engineered Qiu Tu''s promotion and departmental transfer? Wasn''t Yan Chen the mastermind behind this investigation?


    This web of contradictory and intricate relationships left Qin Zhengguang unable to uncover the truth for a long time and shrouded Qiu Tu in a veil of mystery in his eyes.


    Therefore, even though Qin Zhengguang knew that Qiu Tu might be up to no good against him, he dared not act rashly.


    After holding off for two days, Qin Zhengguang happened to run into Qiu Tu on the road today, so he took the opportunity to try and intimidate Qiu Tu, hoping that Qiu Tu would back off in the face of difficulty.


    Yet... who would have thought that not only did Qiu Tu not back off, but he became even more aggressive? He even caught a ride in his own car?


    Truly, Qin Zhengguang was at a loss to understand Qiu Tu''s thought process.


    And what he found even more baffling was... S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When the car stopped at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu simply stretched, yawned, and got out without a word of thanks!


    After alighting from the car, Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly remember something and turned back to knock on Qin Zhengguang''s window, leaving a "threat," "Director Qin, a piece of advice for you, better not wander around this morning, just stay in your office, have some tea, and read the documents."


    Watching Qiu Tu''s carefree figure walking into the Investigation Bureau, Qin Zhengguang''s brows were tightly furrowed, feeling more and more at a loss in understanding this young man in front of him....


    ...


    Arriving at the administrative building of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu took the elevator and went directly to the top floor: this was the private office space for the high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau.


    As one of the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau had one Bureau Chief, three Deputy Directors. Together with Jia Shu, Secretary Bai, the Special Duties Department Director, and the Public Security Department Director, who held actual power, they formed the pinnacle of the Bureau''s authority pyramid.


    These were the nine individuals at the very top of the tens of thousands of investigators in the entire Bureau.


    So, upon reaching the 12th floor, Qiu Tu behaved with utmost discretion. He made his way to Secretary Bai''s office, familiar with the path, and then knocked.


    Before long, a deep "Come in" echoed from the office of Secretary Bai.


    Qiu Tu pushed open the door to enter and saw Secretary Bai on the phone.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Secretary Bai was initially startled, then he gestured for Qiu Tu to sit down first while he continued his phone conversation, "Commissioner Wang, I understand, I understand. But this needs to pass through the Municipal Committee before it can take effect. Until it''s in effect, our Investigation Bureau really can''t arrange it in advance."


    "I know, I know, but..."


    After stalling for a minute, Secretary Bai hung up the phone with a relieved face.


    After disconnecting the call, Secretary Bai looked up at Qiu Tu and asked with a smile, "Why do you have the time to come back to the bureau today?"


    In the presence of the superior who had always guided him, Qiu Tu was very respectful, saying, "I''m here to report to the Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "Wait a second, let me check the Bureau Chief''s schedule."


    After speaking, Secretary Bai took a folder from the desk, opened it, and said casually, "Qiu Tu, the Bureau Chief is indeed very busy."


    "Besides handling various matters of Xinjie City, he also has to look after joint operations with several neighboring cities from time to time."


    "It''s just that Director Liu of Eastern City doesn''t have much to do with our Bureau Chief... um... the two don''t really cooperate, so there''s not much collaboration."


    "So, don''t always crowd around the Bureau Chief''s office without reason. Go do what you need to do."


    "If you interfere with the Bureau Chief''s important affairs, I won''t be able to protect you when the time comes."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu first froze, then looked at Secretary Bai with a complex gaze.


    Although Secretary Bai''s words seemed like a reprimand to Qiu Tu, they were actually informing Qiu Tu of Yan Chen''s sphere of influence:


    There are six or seven cities near Xinjie City; Yan Chen can exert influence on these cities. Even if Qiu Tu fled to those cities, he couldn''t escape from the palm of Yan Chen''s hand and would likely be apprehended and arrested.


    Only the Bureau Chief of Eastern City had a grudge with Yan Chen, so if Qiu Tu needed to run, he could flee to that city, and then from there to the Disaster Zone...


    This was a piece of information worth its weight in gold, as well as a way out for Qiu Tu should the situation become hopeless...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked at Secretary Bai with a complex gaze, heaving an inward sigh,


    ''Even in an apocalyptic world, there are still good people who remember kindness and seek to repay it....''


    Many in the Investigation Bureau knew that Qiu Tu was Secretary Bai''s man and that it was through Secretary Bai''s support that Qiu Tu had latched onto Yan Chen''s thigh.


    But what they didn''t know was that Qiu Tu was, in fact, Secretary Bai''s lifesaver.


    Two years ago, when Xinjie City was in its planning stages, Secretary Bai, as a confidant of Yan Chen, came to Xinjie City with the military to prepare in advance, clearing out underground forces.


    During that period, Secretary Bai was ambushed, got separated from the main force, and nearly lost his life in dire straits.


    It was Qiu Tu who brought him home and saved his life. Just like when he was a child finding Ah-Tai and the Eagle...


    Thus, when Xinjie City was established, Qiu Tu was able to connect with Secretary Bai and join the Investigation Bureau. Later, he was recommended to Yan Chen, and was promoted to a Second-Class Investigator...


    Otherwise, how could such a low-level person have such a stroke of luck.


    Originally, Qiu Tu thought that by now Secretary Bai had fully repaid his debt of gratitude. Therefore, he dared not trouble Secretary Bai afterwards.


    But unexpectedly, when Qiu Tu was deep in trouble, Secretary Bai did not forget to point out an escape route for him...


    .....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu finished recalling his past with Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai had also finished looking at Yan Chen''s schedule for the day.


    He put down the folder, looked up at Qiu Tu, and inquired, "I checked, and the Bureau Chief is indeed quite busy today, but he can spare a few minutes now. Will you go back and think it over, or should I notify him for you?"


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality, looked at Secretary Bai, and smiled, "Please notify him, sir."

 Chapter 42 - 42 Ive solved the case!

    Secretary Bai looked at Qiu Tu, just looked at him. After a moment, he sighed softly and then picked up the landline telephone on the desk.


    Soon the call connected and Secretary Bai had a brief chat with Yan Chen before standing up and saying to Qiu Tu, "Come with me. The Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu sincerely said to Secretary Bai, "Thank you, sir."


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder. Although he didn''t say a word, everything was understood without speaking.


    As Secretary Bai was the head of the Administrative Office and also Yan Chen''s secretary, their offices were very close to each other.


    Qiu Tu followed Secretary Bai for just a short walk before they arrived at Yan Chen''s office door.


    Reaching Yan Chen''s office door, Secretary Bai was about to knock when suddenly a "ding-dong~" sound rang out in the hallway¡ªit was the sound of a text message.


    Secretary Bai stopped his hand movement and looked at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu quickly showed an apologetic smile and took out his communicator to glance at it.


    The text message was from Fang Ming, and its content was straightforward, containing only nine words: Master Qin Si''s item has been delivered.


    A smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. He put his communicator on silent mode and placed it back in his pocket before then whispering to Secretary Bai, "Everything is taken care of."


    Secretary Bai nodded, then knocked on the office door.


    "Come in."


    Accompanied by Yan Chen''s low and husky voice, Secretary Bai opened the door, leading Qiu Tu into the office that represented the Investigation Bureau''s highest authority...


    Similar to Yan Chen''s study, his office was also adorned with thick curtains. Even though it was morning, the room was still incredibly dim, with only the desk lamp casting a faint glow.


    Qiu Tu was curious how Yan Chen could manage to go through documents in such an environment.


    "Bureau Chief, Agent Qiu is here." "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Hearing their greetings, Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness behind the lamp, hummed lightly and then looked at Qiu Tu with an expression neither happy nor sad and slowly asked, "I heard you have a situation to report?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    "I''ve found clues and evidence of the Qin Family colluding with the United Front. I would like to report this to you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression showed no change, but Secretary Bai beside him looked at Qiu Tu with a surprised expression.


    Qiu Tu pretended not to notice Secretary Bai''s expression and just quietly looked at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen was silent for a moment before asking in a flat voice, "You found the evidence in just three days?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Yes."


    After speaking, he added, "If you don''t believe me, you could call Director Qin Zhengguang to confront me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen seemed much more interested.


    He shifted his gaze to Secretary Bai and inquired, "What''s my schedule coming up?"


    Secretary Bai bowed slightly, "Bureau Chief, you have a mid-level meeting in 10 minutes, and in one hour, the Special Service Department is scheduled to give you a summary report."


    Yan Chen pondered for a moment, then said, "Let''s cancel that meeting." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Also, call Qin Zhengguang here."


    Secretary Bai bowed, "Yes."


    Having said that, he turned to leave.


    At this moment, Yan Chen spoke again, "Right, summon Jia Shu as well. After all, this involves their Political Department."


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai nodded again, "Yes."


    After Secretary Bai left, only Qiu Tu and Yan Chen remained in the office.


    Qiu Tu was looking at Yan Chen but his mind was on the information Qin Shuman had drunkenly leaked to him the night before.


    According to Qin Shuman''s account, Yan Chen had indeed experienced a Cataclysm Awakening and was at least a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened.


    No one knew the specifics of his Cataclysmic path, but from some of his usual behaviors and interests, it was very likely that it was "Life" or "Immortality."


    And his own abilities were probably related to darkness or death.


    These types of paths and abilities were the most dangerous and the most prone to "Degeneration." That''s why the Security Department was secretly monitoring and investigating Yan Chen.


    Having learned this information, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised; on the contrary, he felt that Qin Shuman must be hiding something from him.


    After all... merely "suspecting Degeneration," and the Security Department conducting a private investigation of a high-ranking official was quite exaggerated.


    Qiu Tu suspected that this was likely related to the special privileges of the Security Department or some characteristics of Cataclysmics.....


    ....


    As time ticked by, two minutes quickly passed, and a knock was heard on the office door.


    With Yan Chen''s low "Come in," Secretary Bai, Jia Shu, and Qin Zhengguang entered the room.


    They first greeted Yan Chen, and then their gazes fell on Qiu Tu.


    Jia Shu was fine, his gaze merely one of interest, his eyes seemingly smiling but not quite. But Qin Zhengguang was different, he stared angrily at Qiu Tu, his eyes as if they could spit fire.


    Clearly... both of them were already aware of the matter at hand.


    Seeing that everyone had arrived, Yan Chen, leaning back in his chair, eyes landing on Qiu Tu, said in a hoarse voice, "Report."


    "Yes!" Qiu Tu responded, then he first glanced at Qin Zhengguang, then at Jia Shu, and finally took out several documents from the file and said, "Bureau Chief, a few days ago I was ordered to protect Miss Shuman in her return to the Qin Family for a family visit."


    "Unexpectedly, I received an anonymous tip that night."


    "The tip-off stated that the Qin Family was colluding with anti-government organizations."


    "It detailed not only the Qin Family''s secret transportation of drugs, weapons, and other controlled resources to anti-government organizations but also recorded instances of the anti-government organization cooperating with the Qin Family to gain merits, helping the Qin Family to expand their influence in Xinjie City."


    Upon hearing such severe accusations from Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang''s face turned green with rage. His eyes ablaze, he bellowed at Qiu Tu, "You''re slandering me! Who put you up to framing the Qin Family?"


    His voice caused the office to "buzz" with the reverberation.


    Qiu Tu wanted to defend himself, but before he could even speak, Jia Shu next to him began to jokingly refute on his behalf, "Director Qin, no need to be so agitated. Whatever issues you have can wait until after Qiu Tu has finished his report."


    "We''re all on the same side here. Surely we wouldn''t wrong you, would we?"


    Jia Shu was not only Yan Chen''s right-hand man and one of the top nine officials of the Investigation Bureau but also a middle-management personnel with privileges who came down from the Sanctuary. Qin Zhengguang dared to vent at Qiu Tu, but he wouldn''t dare to provoke Jia Shu, thus he had no choice but to press his lips together in silence.


    However, although he was silent, his gaze towards Qiu Tu was filled with unadulterated murderous intent.


    The Qin Family was no small force but a prominent, widespread family within the entirety of Xinjie City.


    For a power group of such level, not to mention vague and elusive clues, even with conclusive evidence, dealing with them would be very troublesome and complicated, with actions affecting the whole body.


    Therefore, even if Qiu Tu''s evidence was sufficient, the Qin Family was most likely not going to fall.


    When the Qin Family recuperated, what awaited Qiu Tu would be their relentless retaliation....

 Chapter 43 - 43 Playing the Reverse Game

    And if the evidence in Qiu Tu''s hands isn''t sufficient, that would make things even easier...


    Without the Qin Family even lifting a finger, he would directly ensure that Qiu Tu has no place to be buried when he dies!


    At this moment, as if having guessed Qin Zhengguang''s inner thoughts, Qiu Tu continued with a smile in his report, "After receiving these allegations, I did not act rashly but instead reported to you, Bureau Chief, requesting reinforcement."


    "You approved my investigation that very night and sent reinforcements."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Zhengguang''s heart skipped a beat. He covertly glanced at Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness, and suddenly realized that he might have misjudged the situation.


    That Qiu Tu dared to investigate this matter clearly indicated someone was instructing him, and the most likely candidates were Yan Chen, Secretary Bai, or Jia Shu.


    Although so far, he couldn''t figure out what the relationship was exactly between Qiu Tu and these three individuals.


    But it was certain that Qiu Tu was closely related to these three, and the masterminds behind this operation also seemed to be shadowed by their figures...


    ''What if they want to go against the Qin Family, what to do?''


    Thinking of this frightening possibility, Qin Zhengguang''s face darkened, and his hand involuntarily clenched.


    Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Zhengguang and continued, "After receiving reinforcement, I didn''t waste any time but immediately directed the reinforcements to investigate these leads."


    "Very quickly, I obtained quite a lot of relevant evidence."


    "We not only found warehouses where the Qin Family was secretly storing contraband drugs, letters of contact with anti-government organizations but also tracked and eavesdropped on the entire process of the Qin Family''s dealings with the United Front."


    "Even... we found evidence of the Qin Family illegally releasing members of anti-government organizations."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang turned pale. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He knew trouble had arisen; the Qin Family must have a mole, otherwise, Qiu Tu couldn''t possibly have found so many key leads and pieces of evidence in just a few days.


    And what''s more terrifying was, he realized... he was finished.


    With so many issues found, the Qin Family couldn''t possibly get through this unscathed.


    Even if the Investigation Bureau and City Hall wouldn''t annihilate them due to the Qin Family''s deep roots, the Qin Family would still need to offer a scapegoat after paying a huge price in order to calm this matter!


    And considering the evidence that Qiu Tu had gathered, who could be more suitable as a scapegoat than him, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau?


    The family, in order to save itself, would certainly sacrifice him to preserve the others!


    Thinking of this, Qin Zhengguang felt his mouth dry, his legs weak, and even a ringing in his ears. He felt as if the sounds around him were getting further and further away, and he was becoming less and less able to hear clearly...


    And in that moment of daze, he faintly heard Qiu Tu say.... "And after two days of investigation, coupled with the inquiry of Director Qin this morning, we have basically confirmed that Master Qin Si, also known as Qin Jinsheng, is the mastermind behind everything."


    "After Old Master Qin...."


    In that instant, Qin Zhengguang felt his mind go blank.


    Who?


    Who is the mastermind behind the scenes?


    Not me? It''s the Fourth Master??


    In that moment, Qin Zhengguang felt his thoughts rapidly crystallize, and even the surrounding sounds seemed much clearer.


    Then he heard Qiu Tu continue, "After Old Master Qin''s death, when the Qin siblings divided the family assets, Master Qin Si inherited the underground brothel, gambling dens, usury, and other illicit industries."


    "Because of the nature of these industries, he came into contact with members of the United Front, and then he discovered that this was an opportunity to make a fortune!"


    "So, he secretly collected drugs under the guise of Director Qin and Commissioner Qin Heng, and sold them at a high price to the United Front."


    "What''s more, when settling accounts, he wouldn''t accept currency from the United Front but instead demanded that they scavenge for people in the Disaster Zone to settle the debts with human lives."


    "Among them, girls in their teens or early twenties were sent to the Underground Brothel; boys aged two or three were taken to be trained as enforcers."


    At this point, Qin Zhengguang''s mood had gradually calmed down.


    He listened to Qiu Tu''s narration, knowing that Qiu Tu indeed had a lot of criminal evidence against the Qin Family.


    Although this evidence wasn''t enough to destroy the Qin Family, it was sufficient to cause them serious harm and make him, the second-in-command of the Qin Family, the scapegoat.


    But... Qiu Tu had raised the stakes so high, only to let them down gently, merely demanding that Fourth Master come out and take the blame.


    This was a path he had never considered.


    Thinking this, Qin Zhengguang looked at Qiu Tu with a complicated gaze, trying to figure out what game Qiu Tu was playing.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also happened to look towards him.


    Upon making eye contact with Qiu Tu, Qin Zhengguang''s eyes flickered with guilt.


    Then he heard Qiu Tu say, "Director Qin, I recall this morning, when I was in the car informing you of everything, you were also very shocked. You then strictly told me not to worry about your pride and to definitely investigate thoroughly without any leniency!"


    "Moreover, you said that you and Commissioner Qin had prohibited Fourth Master from engaging in those illicit industries right from the start when Xinjie City was established. But it turned out he had only pretended to heed your advice and was secretly still involved! Now that such a huge issue has arisen, it''s completely his own fault!"


    "You said that you would definitely be just and not conflate family ties with justice, making him personally hand over the evidence and then delivering him to the Investigation Bureau to be punished accordingly!"


    "And to prevent the Qin Family from repeating the same mistakes and also to facilitate the Investigation Bureau''s investigation, you would hand over all the involved drugs, resources, industries, and any other potential grey-area industries belonging to the Qin Family to the Bureau for a comprehensive examination."


    "Do you remember saying all this?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang gave him a subtly observant glance.


    If he remembered correctly, Qiu Tu had slept all the way in the car, not exchanging a single word with him!


    So... were these Qiu Tu''s conditions?


    To get through this ordeal, did he need to furnish all the complete evidence and have Fourth Master personally confess?


    As for those black and grey industries, they were clearly intended as a tribute to Yan Chen and other higher-ups in the Bureau.


    The conditions weren''t low, but... they were already much better than the outcome Qin Zhengguang had originally anticipated.


    Therefore, Qin Zhengguang readily agreed. With a composed expression, he said in a low voice, "I remember."


    After uttering these words, he couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu again.


    As their gazes met, he caught a fleeting smile in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    For that instant, he felt awkward standing so exposed before Qiu Tu, but... he was also grateful. So, he looked away from Qiu Tu''s gaze, pretending not to see anything.


    After pinning the blame on Fourth Master Qin and taking the pressure off Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu then turned to Yan Chen and said,


    "Bureau Chief, while the Qin Family is indeed a major clan and both Commissioner Qin and Director Qin are influential figures in Xinjie City, bringing Fourth Master in for questioning directly could have some adverse effects."


    "Therefore, what do you think about giving Director Qin some time to bring all the evidence and Fourth Master himself to the Investigation Bureau, is that acceptable?"

 Chapter 44 - 44: Secretary Bais Astonishment (7000 words, please follow)

    As Qiu Tu''s voice trailed off, the entire room instantly fell into silence.


    All eyes within the room were cast towards Yan Chen.


    This matter had significant implications, not only involving the Qin Family, a major clan deeply rooted in Xinjie City, but also pertaining to the Anti-government Armed Forces, and even other forces intricately linked to the Qin Family.


    Therefore, only Yan Chen, the highest-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau, could make the decision.


    At this moment, Yan Chen, concealed in darkness, had his eyes slightly shut, his fingers gently tapping on the backrest of the chair, "tap... tap... tap..."


    The crisp tapping echoed in everyone''s ears, but each person perceived it differently.


    Especially Qin Zhengguang, who felt as though his heart was about to leap out of his chest with each tap.


    He clearly understood Yan Chen''s meaning. Hurriedly bowing his head, he offered new terms, "Bureau Chief, I truly did not expect Fourth Brother to do such a thing."


    "Rest assured, not only will I ensure he admits his guilt and surrenders himself, but I will also make Sure my eldest brother personally apologizes and reflects on his actions before you," he said.


    Although Qin Zhengguang spoke cautiously, everyone present was astute, so they immediately understood his implications:


    Qin Heng was the Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau, a crucial part of the government system. If Qin Heng made a mistake, he should be held accountable to the Municipal Committee, not come to Yan Chen.


    Therefore, when Qin Zhengguang said he would reflect before Yan Chen, it was clear he was promising that the Qin Family would fully align with Yan Chen.


    Upon hearing the terms Qin Zhengguang put forth, Yan Chen finally ceased the tapping of his hand, then spoke indifferently, "I have time tonight at 8 o''clock."


    That set the final deadline for the Qin Family.


    Wiping the cold sweat from his forehead, Qin Zhengguang bowed his head in acknowledgment, "Yes."


    With an agreement reached between the two men, the remaining matters were easier to handle. Qiu Tu reviewed all the other evidence and clues once again, even laying out the fact that Master Qin Si had tried to bribe him that day. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, in Qiu Tu''s account, the bribe from Master Qin Si was not solicited by him; it was offered by Master Qin Si himself to persuade Qiu Tu to stop his investigation.


    Thus, within just over half an hour of reporting, a complex political deal was struck.


    Qiu Tu successfully completed his mission, the Qin Family resolved their crisis, and Yan Chen gained the Qin Family''s allegiance. As for Secretary Bai... he also got to ''enjoy the show.''


    So, when leaving the office, everyone still wore relatively good expressions on their faces.


    Leaving Yan Chen''s office.


    Once the door slowly closed behind him, Qin Zhengguang, with a complex look in his eyes, turned to Qiu Tu. Ignoring Secretary Bai''s presence beside him, he murmured, "Thank you."


    Qiu Tu smiled and retorted, "If Director Qin''s thanks are merely verbal, that would be rather insincere."


    Qin Zhengguang was taken aback by Qiu Tu''s directness, leaving him in an awkward laugh as he glanced at Qiu Tu, "Don''t worry, it won''t just be words of thanks."


    Qiu Tu replied with a salute and a smile, "Then I shall thank Director Qin in advance."


    Qin Zhengguang said nothing more, giving a wry smile before shaking his head and taking the elevator down from the 12th floor.


    Although he had reached a verbal agreement with Yan Chen, the crisis for the Qin Family was not genuinely over.


    ¡ªUntil everything was finalized, verbal agreements were worth less than waste paper. So, he needed to rush back to the Qin Family and discuss with his eldest brother, then convince Master Qin Si to sacrifice himself...


    As the elevator doors closed behind Qin Zhengguang, Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu a slight nod, and understanding the signal, Qiu Tu followed Secretary Bai into the office.


    Inside the office, while casually closing the door, Secretary Bai spoke softly, "You really gave me a scare just now."


    "I thought you were really... becoming a scapegoat."


    His face was fraught with relief, "The Qin Family isn''t easy to provoke, right? They''re one of the biggest snakes in Xinjie City. Even the Bureau Chief has to be cautious dealing with them."


    "Moreover, Xinjie is in its infancy and needs the full support of all families. The Sanctuary must also ''buy the horse''s bones for a thousand gold'', setting an example for other yet-to-develop Disaster Zones."


    "So, the Qin Family won''t fall, nor can it be allowed to fall. This is a political necessity."


    "So, when I heard you discovered evidence of the Qin Family colluding with the United Front, I really sweated bullets."


    "Thankfully, you were smart. Although you raised the issue high, you let it down gently. You showed the Qin Family your evidence and left the handling of the matter to them. Most importantly, you saved Qin Zhengguang."


    At this, Secretary Bai looked at Qiu Tu with satisfaction,


    "If it weren''t for your rhetoric in turning the situation around, the Qin Family would have 100% sacrificed Qin Zhengguang."


    "If that happened, with the Qin Family deeply hurt, they would certainly harbor resentment against you. Once they caught their breath, they definitely wouldn''t let you off easy."


    "But now, you''ve saved Qin Zhengguang, and things are different. You''ve been gracious to Qin Zhengguang, so even if the Qin Family is displeased with you, he can help withstand some of the pressure."


    "He is the second-most prominent figure in the Qin Family, with a pivotal status."


    "Plus, this opportunity allows the Qin Family to cut off all their black and gray industries in one fell swoop, thoroughly whitewashing themselves and eliminating future worries."


    "Who knows... after this ordeal, the Qin Family might even be grateful to you."


    "So, you..." Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu a profound look, commenting, "You''ve done a decent job. You have improved."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s analysis, Qiu Tu chuckled twice and humbly replied, "Chief, you flatter me. I was simply reporting the facts. I didn''t think that far."


    Secretary Bai pointed at Qiu Tu, laughing and chiding, "You, you just can''t take a compliment."

 Chapter 45 - 44: Secretary Bais Astonishment (7000 words, please follow)_2

    Having said this, his expression returned to calm. Then he took a deep look at Qiu Tu and reminded him softly, "However... Qiu Tu, you must not take it lightly...."


    "Although the Bureau Chief is very satisfied with your mission this time, there is an unbridgeable gulf between you two..."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s face also became serious.


    Secretary Bai didn''t finish his sentence, but both of them understood what was left unsaid.... sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Qiu Tu''s expression eased up in the next moment.


    After all... his plan was not finished yet.


    Using the Qin Family''s internal strife to complete his mission was just the first step of his plan. He still had bigger schemes to unfold....


    ...


    Meanwhile, in Yan Chen''s dimly lit office.


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, his figure faintly visible in the darkness with only his facial contour slightly illuminated under the light.


    He sat with his hands crossed over his lower abdomen, his gaze indifferent as he looked at Jia Shu and asked softly, "What do you think?"


    Jia Shu responded with a chuckle, "A stratagem that kills multiple birds with one stone."


    He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on his nose and analyzed, "If I am not mistaken, the person who provided Qiu Tu with this intelligence and clues must be Old Fourth Qin."


    "And these pieces of information and clues point to Qin Zhengguang."


    "It is through collaboration with Old Fourth Qin that Qiu Tu was able to grasp the various issues of Qin Zhengguang so quickly."


    "But after clarifying the problems with Qin Zhengguang, he found himself at a dead end."


    "If he supports Old Fourth Qin in trying to take down Qin Zhengguang, it would not only take a long time, but... he would likely face various forms of backlash and retaliation from the Qin Family."


    "So instead, he cleverly changed his approach. He threw out the bait directly, letting the Qin Family fight amongst themselves, choosing their own scapegoat. Whichever side wins, he wins."


    "By doing this, not only has he significantly reduced the enmity towards him within the Qin Family, but he has also caused internal division, preventing them from uniting their strength. He might even have won over the goodwill of some within the Qin Family."


    "Most importantly, in front of Qin Zhengguang, he deliberately asked for your opinion."


    "On the surface, it seems like he is showing respect to you, but actually, he is further passing the buck."


    "If you agree to let the Qin Family resolve their issues internally, then not only do they owe you a favor, but they also owe him one. If you disagree, then their animosity might be redirected towards you."


    "After all, he has shown leniency to the Qin Family, but you are not willing to let go. Naturally, you would become the most hated person to the Qin Family."


    Having listened to this, Yan Chen chuckled twice, his voice growing deep as he said, "It''s more than that...."


    "This Qiu Tu really has a clear insight into things."


    At this point, Yan Chen spoke with a complicated gaze, "The reason he sold out Old Fourth Qin and kept Qin Zhengguang safe is that he knew I would definitely protect Qin Zhengguang."


    "Outsiders only know that Xinjie City has just been established and the Qin Family must not fall. But... can the Investigation Bureau afford to fall?"


    "Qin Zhengguang is the head of my Investigation Bureau, and if he has collusion with United Front, how would outsiders view the Investigation Bureau, how would they view me?"


    "Would City Hall take the opportunity to cause trouble?"


    "There are far too many unknowns...."


    "So, the Qin Family can have issues, but Qin Zhengguang cannot have issues."


    "If Qin Zhengguang has no issues, the Investigation Bureau uncovering the problems within the Qin Family would be a merit."


    "If Qin Zhengguang has issues, even if the Investigation Bureau uncovers them, at best it would be seen as offsetting the good with the bad?"


    After finishing, he paused for a moment before summarizing, "One must understand that during this sensitive period, the Qin Family can have trouble, but the Investigation Bureau, City Hall must not make a mistake! The choice of people for the Sanctuary must also be flawless...."


    Hearing this, Jia Shu smiled and bowed, "Bureau Chief is wise."


    Yan Chen paid no mind to Jia Shu''s flattery. He felt a bit uncomfortable in his throat after speaking so much, so he picked up the tea on the desk and took a sip.


    After moistening his throat, he opened his mouth to ask again, "What do you think of Qiu Tu?"


    Jia Shu assessed him with a smile that was not quite a smile, "A talent. Ambitious."


    Speaking of which, he glanced at Yan Chen, "If it weren''t for the entanglement with Qin Shuman, perhaps he could be enlisted for our purposes."


    Yan Chen remained silent, his eyes fathomless.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu further evaluated, "However, he would still serve as a good knife."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen said in a low tone, "Be careful the knife doesn''t turn on you...."


    Jia Shu laughed, "Indeed. His ambition is too great."


    "He dares to use the case funds to buy people''s hearts and even dragged a First Level Detective down with him."


    "If not controlled, who knows what chaos he might cause."


    Yan Chen hummed in acknowledgment, "Then what do you plan to do next?"


    Jia Shu adjusted the glasses on his nose, his eyes shimmering behind the lenses, "Simple. Go with the flow."


    "He has found evidence of the Qin Family''s crimes, which likewise confirms Qin Shuman''s guilt."


    "For such a spy planted by the United Front by your side, the Political Department would naturally take her into custody and then interrogate her thoroughly."


    "As for Qiu Tu...."


    "The Investigation Bureau is in its inception, and many positions are vacant. He has made such great achievements, he certainly deserves a promotion."


    "I think he should be promoted from the grassroots team to an office job, as Deputy Staff, where he can fully utilize his talents."


    "For instance... the Interrogation Section of the Political Department."


    The room was pervaded by darkness, as if it swallowed all traces of light. Only a few weak rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting phantom-like outlines on the furniture....


    .....


    Leaving Yan Chen''s office, Jia Shu wore a smile as if he had encountered something extremely joyful.


    However, that good mood evaporated after he met Secretary Bai.


    "You''ve been waiting for me?" Jia Shu said to Secretary Bai, who stood at the entrance to his office, with a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Secretary Bai, with a touch of coldness, produced two notes and handed them to him, "This is Qiu Tu''s funding request. I need your signature for the records."


    Jia Shu took the notes, glanced at them, and smiled.


    On the note was an instruction from Qiu Tu to convert bribes from Master Qin Si into a personal bonus.


    This was the request Qiu Tu had made to Yan Chen about the bribe from Master Qin Si while in the office.


    Yan Chen obviously didn''t care about such a small amount of money, especially during a key reporting moment, so he nodded in agreement.


    Unexpectedly, Qiu Tu wasn''t satisfied with just verbal approval; he had also drafted a formal paper request.


    Without much concern, Jia Shu picked up a pen, signed his name on it, handed one copy to Secretary Bai for the records and kept one for himself. Then he scrutinized Secretary Bai and said with a half-smile, "You seem to have a special interest in Qiu Tu."


    Secretary Bai collected the notes without a change in expression, then turned and returned to his own office.


    The office door shut, leaving Jia Shu alone in the echoing corridor.


    "Hehehe..." Jia Shu chuckled softly, his gaze flickering with an indescribable light, "Still the same old temper, I see."


    As he spoke, his eyes seemed to redden considerably but were quickly subdued.


    Then he took one more lingering look at Secretary Bai''s office door, shrugged nonchalantly, and humming a tune, he stepped back to his own office.


    Back in his office, he filed the request and then opened a drawer, taking out a document to sign a promotion order.


    The content of the promotion order was simple: to appoint First Level Detective Qiu Tu as the Deputy Chief of the Interrogation Section, ordering him to take up his new post the following day.


    After writing the promotion order, Jia Shu signed another document... to arrest Qin Shuman.


    After signing both documents, Jia Shu did not issue them immediately.


    He stood up, walked to the window, hands in pockets, his narrow eyes peering outside through the glasses.


    For some reason... he felt a slight unease in his heart, as if something was about to happen.

 Chapter 46 - 45 Promotion! Envy from Everyone (7000 requests for follow-up reading!)

    ```


    With these thoughts, Jia Shu stood by the window for a while and went over the whole matter in his mind once again.


    A moment later, he returned to his desk and amended Qiu Tu''s appointment, changing "starting from tomorrow" to "effective immediately."


    He then temporarily held back Qin Shuman''s arrest warrant, planning to issue it after the Qin Family had dealt with their own matters...


    Ultimately, he opted for a more cautious approach...


    .....


    "My God! Another promotion?"


    "Who?"


    "Who else but Chief Qiu."


    "Ah? Chief Qiu got promoted again?"


    In an era with radios and vehicles, the speed of command transmission was very fast.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t even returned to the Qin Family before his promotion notice had already been sent to the Security Team.


    So upon his arrival at the Security Team''s base, what he heard were the many detectives'' discussions.


    "Chief Qiu has been promoted two ranks in one week!"


    "He''s heading for an office job already? I''m so envious."


    "From now on, he''s a big shot. Not the same as us anymore."


    Because he faintly heard his own name, Qiu Tu beckoned a Special Service Detective over and asked, "What happened? Who got promoted?"


    The detective Qiu Tu had singled out scurried over and saluted him respectfully amidst the envious gazes of others.


    After that, he whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief, it''s you who''ve been promoted! Congratulations on becoming a Deputy Staff Director!"


    Hearing what the detective said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but pause.


    Promoted? Deputy Staff Director?


    What are Yan Chen and Jia Shu up to?


    Though he was hesitant inside, he managed to show a happy expression on his face.


    He smiled and patted the detective on the shoulder encouragingly, "Keep up the good work, and you''ll be a Deputy Staff Director in the future too!"


    The detective blushed with excitement upon hearing Qiu Tu''s encouragement and quickly saluted again, "Thank you, Chief!"


    And once he returned to the midst of the other detectives, he instantly became the center of attention, with the others eagerly questioning what Qiu Tu had said to him, whether there was any mention of taking him under his wing.


    Obviously, with Qiu Tu''s promotion, the attitudes of these Special Service detectives toward him had once again undergone a dramatic change...


    As mentioned earlier when introducing Lin Zuo, it seemed like there was only one rank between a First Level Detective and a Deputy Staff Director, but in reality, it was a world of difference.


    A Deputy Staff Director could not only transfer detectives they liked to their own department so they wouldn''t have to do fieldwork anymore, but they also had the authority to recommend promotions below First Level Detective and had a decisive role in selecting detectives.


    Add to this that Xinjie City was newly established and the Investigation Bureau''s middle-management positions were not yet full, so a Deputy Staff Director entering a leadership position had ample room for advancement.


    So if they could gain the favor of a young Deputy Staff Director like Qiu Tu, it could be a life-changing opportunity for those lower-ranking detectives.


    Having been through several days in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu also had a comprehensive understanding of the power structure and thus knew what those detectives were yearning for.


    However, he hadn''t even seen his own promotion fax yet, hadn''t figured out what moves Yan Chen and Jia Shu had made, so he was not in the mood to recruit these detectives.


    He called over a detective to ask for Fang Ming''s whereabouts and went straight to him.


    As expected, the promotion fax was in Fang Ming''s hands.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come to him, Fang Ming handed over the promotion fax with a complex expression on his face.


    Clearly, even someone with a strong background like him found Qiu Tu''s rapid ascension somewhat unbelievable.


    Qiu Tu took the promotion fax, read it carefully, and then couldn''t help but curl his lips into a smile.


    ''Deputy Director of the Political Department''s Interrogation Section? Effective immediately? Handover work to Cao Dabiao?''


    This fax seemed fine at a glance, but upon closer scrutiny, it revealed a lot of hidden implications.


    A smile played across Qiu Tu''s eyes,


    ''It seems like Yan Chen and the others have sensed the danger, so they want to act in advance to separate me and the Qin Family...''


    ''Too bad it''s too late. The trap has been set...''


    At this point, as Qiu Tu finished reading the report, Fang Ming sighed softly and said, "Your promotion speed is really like being on a rocket."


    Qiu Tu tucked the fax away and asked with a laugh, "What''s the matter? Jealous?" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Fang Ming unusually maintained his composure at such a time. He first nodded, admitting his envy, "Of course, who wouldn''t be?"


    He then said to Qiu Tu, "But... I''d advise you to be cautious."


    Qiu Tu looked at him.


    He said calmly, "If you''re not a secret child of some big shot from the Sanctuary, or if you haven''t gotten ahold of leverages over some high-ups at the Investigation Bureau. Or perhaps, caught the eye of some bigwig''s daughter..."


    "Then you''d better make sure if those above aren''t setting you up."


    He continued, "You''re too young, and your promotion speed is too rapid. We ordinary detectives might only be envious, which won''t impact you."


    "But what about those at the same rank as you, the other Deputy Directors or Directors? Could they affect you? Might they also have an issue with it in their hearts?"


    ```


    "You should know that many of them are heads of various medium to large forces in Xinjie City, and it''s by seeking refuge in the Sanctuary that they''ve managed to secure their current positions after the establishment of Xinjie City."


    "And yet you surpassed them in just a week''s time...."


    Fang Ming didn''t finish his sentence, but his meaning was crystal clear.


    Upon hearing his words, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment, then reached out to pat Fang Ming''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry, I''ve got it under control."


    Seeing this, Fang Ming didn''t try to persuade him further, only reminding him, "Stay safe."


    Qiu Tu hummed in response and then said, "Since the order has been given from above, I''m going to go and hand over the Security Team."


    After finishing his statement, he lifted his leg, ready to leave.


    However... just as he took one step, he stopped again.


    He hesitated for a second, then with suggestive intent, he said, "I remember you don''t get along with Cao Dabiao, do you?"


    "It seems like you''ve always looked down on his carefree demeanor."


    "Now that you two have to work together, watch your temper and don''t start any conflicts as soon as he takes over. If you get kicked out of the Security Team, it won''t look good for anyone."


    Fang Ming: ??


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words left Fang Ming completely baffled.


    Since when did he have bad relations with Cao Dabiao? And when was his temper ever bad?


    Although he looked down on Cao Dabiao... there were plenty of others he disapproved of. Cao Dabiao was just one among many.


    Besides, his temper had always been good. Hadn''t he been provoked by Qiu Tu so many times and yet remained so composed?


    As he thought about it, a bolt of lightning flashed through Fang Ming''s mind. He abruptly looked up at Qiu Tu.


    But Qiu Tu merely gave him a meaningful look before he walked away....


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Fang Ming swallowed nervously, understanding....


    At noon, Qiu Tu and Cao Dabiao carried out the work handover in the presence of the Security Team. Then, skipping lunch, Qiu Tu went straight to the Political Department''s Interrogation Section to report.


    That afternoon, a fierce argument erupted between Fang Ming and Cao Dabiao over Fang Ming''s dissatisfaction with Cao Dabiao''s command.


    Because the matter escalated to a point of no return, Fang Ming and his team of detectives were reassigned back to the Bureau by the Special Service Department, replaced by a new team of Special Service Detectives for assistance.


    However, what no one knew was that during the chaotic handover period, Shen Lingshuang had also been secretly moved out of the Qin Family''s residence.


    Shen Lingshuang had originally been sent to the Qin Family in secret. Without Qiu Tu or Fang Ming saying anything, and with no investigation from above, Cao Dabiao and the new First Level Detective from the Special Service Department had no knowledge of her....


    .....


    At 5 p.m., Qiu Tu left the Investigation Bureau and returned to his home.


    But the moment he unlocked and opened the door, he was stunned.


    His home was completely transformed:


    The previously somewhat messy living room now looked brand new, the sofa neatly arranged, the miscellaneous items on the table tidily organized, and the floor, tabletop, and even the windows were cleaned to a shine, glistening with cleanliness.


    If not for the familiar items still in the room, he might have doubted he had entered the wrong house.


    "You''re back~?" A crisp and pleasant voice came from the direction of the bedroom.


    Possibly having heard the door open, a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl emerged from the bedroom. It seemed she had just taken a shower; her hair was still damp, adorned with sparkling droplets, her skin as creamy and smooth as porcelan with a healthy rosy hue.


    She wore one of Qiu Tu''s white shirts, which hung loose on her small frame, barely concealing her fair jade-like legs beneath.


    Yet she seemed unconcerned, merely tilting her head slightly and looking at Qiu Tu with bright and large eyes.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s heartbeat momentarily quickened.


    Nonetheless, he swiftly adjusted his emotions and, glancing over the tidy room, he asked, "Did you clean all this?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded with a smile. She was naturally at an age of innocence, and her untainted smile, sunny as a spring day, was infectiously bright.


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment, then proceeded to close the door and remove his belongings as he asked, "Is everything ready?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu address serious matters, the smile on Shen Lingshuang''s face faded, and she nodded, "It''s ready."


    After speaking, she gestured with her hand and led Qiu Tu into the bedroom.


    The previously cramped bedroom had been cleared out, even the bed tipped on its side, leaving all the space for a Magic Potion brewing setup and various ingredients.


    This was something Qiu Tu had arranged for Eagle and Ah-Kun to purchase from the black market over the past two days.


    Having inspected the brewing equipment, Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer in the upper-left corner.


    The countdown that remained for several hours this morning to "make Cataclysmic Potion" had now hit zero, changing into a small, trembling Treasure Chest.


    After confirming everything was ready, Qiu Tu turned to Shen Lingshuang and said, "Well, since it''s all set, let''s begin."


    Hearing Qiu Tu say this, Shen Lingshuang nodded vigorously, then moved to the equipment to start brewing the "Cataclysmic Potion."


    Qiu Tu stood silently behind her for a few minutes, making sure no new Crisis Warning popped up, before he finally let his guard down.


    He left the bedroom and entered the small living room. Standing by the neat window, he looked outside at the prairie fire-like sunset and the blazing clouds, slightly lost in thought....


    ''The Qin Family must be starting now as well....''


    ----


    The new month should see an increase in update speed (around 7000 words a day), and I hope everyone will keep up with the reading.

 Chapter 47 - 46 Would you like to be my first love? (7000 words, please follow)

    At this moment, the Qin Family''s main house.


    Just as Qiu Tu had predicted, the members of Qin Family''s Fifth House had all gathered and were quarreling non-stop behind closed doors!


    Among them, the most intense argument was between Qin Zhengguang and Master Qin Si.


    At first, when Master Qin Si received the notification that the family was going to have a meeting to discuss important matters concerning the future of the Qin Family, he was overjoyed, thinking that since Qiu Tu had taken the money, he indeed did the job.


    However, he was shocked when he learned from Qin Zhengguang that Qiu Tu had pinned all the evidence he had collected so painstakingly on him.


    At that moment, he wanted desperately to interrupt Qin Zhengguang, then question him, "What? What did you say? Qiu Tu said I did all those things? Has Qiu Tu gone mad?"


    But... he didn''t dare.


    After all, up to this point, none of the Qin houses knew that it was he who had betrayed the Qin Family.


    Through the years, despite the heavy internal conflicts, the Qin Family had always observed one bottom line, which was to present a united front externally.


    If he exposed that it was he who had sold out the Qin Family''s evidence to Qiu Tu, he guessed he wouldn''t even need the Investigation Bureau to take action; he would immediately become the target of all.


    Thus, all he could do was sit on the chair in a daze and listen to Qin Zhengguang recount the events that had happened in Yan Chen''s office.


    But, as soon as Qin Zhengguang got to the part where he was about to take the fall for all the crimes, Master Qin Si couldn''t sit still anymore.


    With his belly out, he put on an incredulous face and looked at Qin Zhengguang, "Big brother! I didn''t hear you wrong, did I?"


    "You plan to let me take the fall for all the crimes?"


    "How many lives do I have to take on so many crimes!"


    "I''m your own brother for God''s sake!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qin Zhengguang''s face was also filled with conflict, and he said gravely, "Fourth brother, really, this is beyond your brother''s control."


    "Right now, Qiu Tu is pinning it all on you. Even if we offer up some other branch of the family, the Bureau won''t believe it."


    "Since you''re going to be implicated anyway, isn''t it better to take the blame than for everyone to be ruined together?"


    Master Qin Si slammed the table with a "pah" and stood up, glaring at Qin Zhengguang, bellowing, "What kind of talk is that!"


    "Are you going to just watch your own brother be thrown into the flames?"


    As he spoke, he swept a glance at Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, seated at the head seat, then looked at Qin Zhengguang again, and said in frustration, "I''ve figured it out long ago. Ever since our father died, you and the eldest brother have looked down on me and third brother."


    "After all, you are both political bigwigs, influential figures in Xinjie City. While me and third brother are just businessmen. Especially me, who deals with the black market."


    "You''ve always looked down on me, and I''ve endured it because that''s how our father divided the family. But now that something has happened, you still want to push me out to take the blame? I won''t accept this!"


    Seeing the two of them arguing, Patriarch Qin Heng, seated at the main seat, covered his mouth with a cough twice, then said in a deep voice, "Alright, let''s all say a little less."


    After saying that, he looked towards Master Qin Si, and spoke gently, "Fourth brother. Second brother has reported this to me at noon. We have discussed it for a long time, and this is really the best outcome."


    "Of course, I know this matter has indeed wronged you."


    "But, this is for the sake of the family, isn''t it?"


    Seeing that Master Qin Si was about to argue again, Qin Heng raised his hand to gesture him to pause, adding, "Don''t worry. We are aware of the contributions you have made for the family."


    "So, as long as you weather this storm, I guarantee your two sons will hold a position of at least section chief at the City Hall or in the Investigation Bureau once they come of age."


    "As for your assets, one-third of the legitimate business in third brother''s hands will be divided to ensure your family''s future expenses."


    "Regarding your safety... when I meet with Yan Chen tonight, I will secure a guarantee for you."


    "Guarantee that you won''t be tortured and that your life will be free from any danger."


    "So, for now, go to jail for the family. Once the dust settles and we find an appropriate opportunity, we will find a way to get you out."


    Hearing Qin Heng''s words, Master Qin Si''s face changed rapidly.


    But just then, Qin Shu from the Qin Family''s Third House suddenly stood up. He expressed his dissatisfaction, "Wait a minute. Big brother. Why should I pay for the crimes that second brother and Master Qin Si have committed?" S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''ve been conducting my business just fine, so why is a third of my family''s business suddenly being divided away?"


    "I still have to give half my income to the family every year. What will I have left?"


    "I do not agree with this!"


    And so, a new round of quarreling began¡­


    But what no one knew was... while they were all caught up in their tumultuous argument, Master Qin Si''s communicator suddenly vibrated twice.


    Master Qin Si discreetly took out the communicator to have a look.


    At that instant, his face turned exceedingly grim, but it quickly returned to normal...


    ¡­


    The process of concocting the Cataclysmic Potion is troublesome yet simple.


    The difficult part is that the Pharmacist must understand all the Cataclysm Materials. They must also know the timing and interactions of the "Star, Moon, King, and Minister" medicine categories, thoroughly acquainted with when to add which ingredient, when to stir, and when to take the Potion off the fire.


    The simple part is that once these steps are memorized, for the most part, the brewing is fully automated and doesn''t require the Pharmacist to keep constant watch.


    Thus Shen Lingshuang had ample time to pester Qiu Tu.


    After setting the alarm for the next stirring, Shen Lingshuang tiptoed into the living room and tilted her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was sitting on the couch at that moment, with his hands crossed behind his head, seemingly deep in thought.


    Shen Lingshuang silently watched him for a while and got bored, so she took the initiative and called out, "Hey, Qiu Tu~"


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses and turned his head towards her.

 Chapter 48 - 46 Do You Want to Be My First Love? (7000 words, please follow)_2

    Shen Lingshuang, "What are you thinking about?"


    Qiu Tu replied perfunctorily, "Thinking about stuff."


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes wandered, "Then how about we chat for a bit?"


    Qiu Tu asked, "Chat about what?"


    Shen Lingshuang grinned, revealing two adorable little canines, "Do you have a girlfriend?"


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then gave her a meaningful glance, "That depends on whether you want an opportunity or an answer."


    Qiu Tu''s smooth talk nearly fried Shen Lingshuang''s CPU.


    Her eyes glazed over, her brain whirring rapidly, and then... she didn''t get it.


    She leaned in, cautiously asking, "Then have you had a girlfriend before?"


    Images of the dozen or so girlfriends from his past life flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind, and then... he shook his head, "No."


    "They were just good friends I used to play with."


    "They served as love mentors for a while."


    "Later on, our values didn''t align, so we stopped hanging out."


    At this point, Qiu Tu raised his eyebrows, "Why? Do you want to be my first love?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s eyes glazed over, and her head began to emit the white steam of cognitive overload.


    She could understand every sentence spoken by Qiu Tu, but when strung together, she seemed a bit confused.


    Love mentor? Good friends to play with?


    What in the world was all this!


    Thus, she didn''t even answer Qiu Tu''s question, just covered her face and ran back to her room to continue with alchemy.


    Watching the girl beat a hasty retreat, Qiu Tu chuckled. He found it truly amusing to tease such an innocent girl.


    Then, he crossed his hands behind his head, continuing to wait patiently for the situation at the Qin Family to change....


    "Tick-tock... tick-tock..." Along with the swinging of the wall clock, time ticked away by the minute and second.


    While Shen Lingshuang was in the middle of alchemy, an urgent ringing of the communicator finally broke the silence in the room.


    "Ring ring ring!"


    Qiu Tu took the communicator out of his pocket, glanced at it, and then smiled: as expected, his wait had paid off.


    With that thought, he answered the call. Before even a greeting could be exchanged, Master Qin Si''s furious tirade burst forth from the other end, "Qiu Tu, you motherf*#%@!"


    "You son of a #*%#@!"


    "You @&#¡­!"


    Gang bosses tend to have bad tempers, so Qiu Tu didn''t mind and just quietly listened.


    After letting Master Qin Si rant for a minute, Qiu Tu spoke up during his gasping interval, "Have you finished, Fourth Master? Would you like to yell for a few more minutes?"


    "You could cuss daily, cuss monthly, but can you cuss me to death?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s recently calmed rage flared up again, "I''ll f*#% you @&#!"


    But this time, Qiu Tu didn''t indulge his tantrum, and directly hung up the communicator.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu didn''t put down the communicator, instead, he held it, counting down with a smile, "Three, two, one...."


    As the countdown ended, the ringing inevitably resumed.


    Qiu Tu answered the call once more and began to speak with a laugh, "Calm down, Fourth Master. I know you''re really angry, but don''t be angry just yet."


    "Let''s have a good talk."


    "This matter, perhaps it''s not as bad as you think."


    Perhaps Qiu Tu hanging up the call finally made Master Qin Si face reality.


    Or perhaps the venting for over a minute had finally made him less irritable.


    So he fell silent for two seconds and finally stopped cursing Qiu Tu.


    He slowly regained the composure of a big shot, then said in a heavy voice, "Qiu Tu, you''ve really played a good hand."


    "Taking my money, taking my clues, then turning around and betraying me, your heart is really dark. Aren''t you afraid of going down with me!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu "haha" laughed twice, then replied, "Fourth Master is joking."


    "The clues are ones I picked up off the ground and investigated myself; the money is your bribe to me, asking me not to investigate you; I''m an agent, you''re the head of a faction, we were never the same kind of people, there''s no such thing as betrayal."


    "All the details of our contact, I have long reported to the Bureau Chief. So... you can''t threaten me with these."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then said mockingly, "Besides, do you dare to make these matters public?"


    "You''re already in a tight spot as it is. If the Qin Family finds out that you are the insider who betrayed the family, do you still have a way to live?"


    Coming from the other end of the communicator was Master Qin Si''s heavy breathing. He took a few deep breaths, then laughed angrily, "Good, good, good. Worthy of being Agent Qiu, no, Chief Qiu! Your methods are truly exquisite."


    After speaking, he roared, "Since you''ve already betrayed me, why did you send me a text message?"


    Qiu Tu spoke with gravity, "Fourth Master, you misunderstand."


    "Actually... I never betrayed you, nor have I ever forgotten about our deal."


    "It''s just... I thought your previous idea was too fanciful. So, I switched to a different plan, that''s all."


    He said, "If I''m not mistaken, you''re probably not planning and advancing the entire scheme alone, right?"


    "Your accomplice should be Third Master, right?"


    Master Qin Si''s breathing on the other end clearly hitched.


    Qiu Tu laughed and said, "There''s no need to be surprised. No one betrayed you."


    "It''s a simple deduction."


    "Commissioner Qin''s health is poor, and he has no sons to carry on the Qin legacy."


    "That''s why Old Master Qin, before his death, paved the path for Director Qin Zhengguang and built connections with Bureau Chief Yan."


    "This way, the Qin Family would have two fallback options."


    "If Commissioner Qin could recuperate, he would continue to lead the Qin Family, with Director Qin Zhengguang supporting him."


    "If Commissioner Qin''s health did not improve, they would boost Director Qin Zhengguang to inherit the family business."


    "Old Master Qin''s plan was considered from the perspective of the entire Qin Family, but he forgot that people have their own desires."


    "You and Third Master are both Old Qin''s sons, why should only the main and second branches be potential successors while you can only play supporting roles, mere branches?!"


    "So, you don''t accept this, and you are not content!"


    "You want to be the one in control of the Qin Family! So you wanted to pull Director Qin Zhengguang down."


    "Luckily, he... also gave you this chance."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then analyzed, "Before the old master passed away, he must have warned you not to get involved with the United Front again. But the benefits of that connection with the United Front were just too significant."


    "Director Qin Zhengguang could not bear to cut off this connection."


    "Thus, you took advantage of the situation, continuing to work with the United Front while secretly gathering evidence."


    "You knew, as long as you could bring down Director Qin Zhengguang, the commissioner would inevitably have to choose another successor for the sake of the Qin Family''s future."


    "And the only direct relatives of Commissioner Qin are you and Third Master, so no matter who takes over, you both could achieve your goal."


    "However, this plan has a critical node, which is that it must be implemented during the early stages of Xinjie City''s establishment."


    "In the early days of Xinjie City, the power hierarchy was not stable, and many positions were still vacant. The Qin Family, as an established local force, still had strong influence at this time. Both City Hall and the Investigation Bureau had to give face to the Qin Family. Even if a successor were to be changed, the Qin Family could comfortably make arrangements."


    "Once these two years passed, the rule of City Hall and the Investigation Bureau would be solidified, and most positions occupied by different families. Even if you pulled down Director Qin Zhengguang, you would have a hard time securing the corresponding positions, and you might even cause the Qin Family''s decline."


    "So, you were always looking for the right opportunity and a scapegoat to bear Commissioner Qin''s wrath."


    "And then... I came into your sights."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu laughed and asked, "Am I right or wrong, Fourth Master?"


    Even in this situation, Master Qin Si on the other end of the communicator did not admit to the conspiracy. He snorted coldly and replied, "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "I called you simply because of the text you sent me."


    At this point, Master Qin Si also appropriately steered the conversation back to the matter at hand, asking, "You said in the message that you can save me?"


    S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 49 - 47 Cataclysmic Potion Refinement (7000 words, please follow!)

    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu knew that Master Qin Si had been persuaded by him and was preparing to test him.


    With this thought, he began to execute the last step of his plan, "Yes, I can save you."


    He said slowly, "Fourth Master, your original plan was to use the Political Department''s authority for internal supervision to pull down Qin Zhengguang."


    "But you obviously forgot the most important point: Qin Zhengguang is also a man of the Investigation Bureau."


    "At this sensitive time, how could Director Yan possibly allow a director of the Investigation Bureau to have issues?"


    "Isn''t that just giving the Municipal Committee and the military a reason to criticize him?"


    "So, even if I hadn''t betrayed you and had become your pawn to go against Qin Zhengguang, it wouldn''t have been possible to succeed! Director Yan would just suppress everything."


    "I believe you must have heard this analysis from your two brothers tonight...."


    "So, the reason I betrayed you is truly because I was forced to..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si fell silent.


    Indeed, as Qiu Tu had said. When he had refused to take the fall for the Qin Family, furiously asking why Qin Zhengguang couldn''t step forward to take the blame himself, Qin Heng had given him a lesson on the spot.


    He had learned that Yan Chen and Qin Zhengguang were on the same boat, and Yan Chen would not allow Qin Zhengguang to take the blame at this critical juncture.


    The Investigation Bureau could not afford to make mistakes!


    Sensing Master Qin Si''s silence, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a smile, and then he whispered, "So, Fourth Master...do you want to switch camps?"


    In that instant, Master Qin Si was taken aback.


    His voice, full of disbelief, came through the receiver, "Aren''t you Yan Chen''s confidant? You...?"


    Qiu Tu laughed, his eyes wide open as he told a bald-faced lie, "I am indeed Director Yan''s confidant. But...I''m certainly not Qin Zhengguang''s confidant."


    "You don''t know, but this time after I targeted the Qin Family, Qin Zhengguang was actually very grateful to me, and he even took the initiative to give me a car, along with many gifts."


    "To be honest...I''m really scared."


    Qiu Tu expressed, "Fourth Master. To be frank. If he had cursed me out or threatened me, I wouldn''t worry; after all, that would indicate Director Qin is nothing but a brave sans strategic fool."


    "But his sycophantic approach, even given me gifts... I''m very worried he''s harboring ill will and planning to settle scores with me in the future."


    "Furthermore, the Qin Family is about to lean towards the Bureau Chief and be accepted as a confidant. In the Bureau Chief''s eyes, do you think I''m more important, or is such a large Qin Family more important?"


    "So, I don''t want the Qin Family to lean towards the Bureau Chief. Or to be more precise, even if they do, there must be someone I can control."


    "For example... you."


    The contempt and threats from Qiu Tu did not anger Master Qin Si. On the contrary, it brought quite a bit of peace to his heart.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Fourth Master, I hold your damning evidence, the proof of you betraying the Qin Family. In the future, when you take charge of the Qin Family, you wouldn''t dare harm me."


    "Even if you can''t swallow this humiliation and truly plan to make a move against me, we might as well perish together."


    "We have a basis for cooperation...."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s expression changed continuously over the other side of the communicator.


    After a long moment, he asked, "Which other camp are you suggesting?"


    The smile on Qiu Tu''s face grew broader as he softly uttered two words, "The military."


    Master Qin Si''s pupils contracted slightly, his heart shocked.


    The military, the most inconspicuous of the three major powers. Even General Ye of the military kept an extremely low profile in Xinjie City.


    But... No one could disregard the presence of this department and this powerful figure.


    After all, two years ago, when he was still Colonel Ye, he led a division''s troops to station in Xinjie City under the pretense of passing through.


    Then, after having thoroughly investigated the distribution of power in the entire Xinjie City, he directly cleansed all the underground forces and dozens of families, big and small, in Xinjie City.


    At that time, rivers of blood flowed through Xinjie City, and all those who opposed the rule of the Sanctuary were genocidally destroyed.


    Afterwards, Colonel Ye was promoted to Major General Ye, and while retaining a core force of a regiment, he recruited and expanded to a division, continuing to station in Xinjie City.


    Therefore, although the City Hall is the supreme authority of Xinjie City, and the Investigation Bureau is a violent institution closely linked to most people in Xinjie City, there is no one who dares to overlook General Ye and the military...


    ''If I could really hold onto the military''s coattails, then...''


    At this thought, Master Qin Si shivered all over and suddenly realized he had almost been dazzled by the huge pie Qiu Tu was painting.


    Once he came to his senses, he couldn''t help but question, "The military? Why would the military want to protect me?"


    "Besides, the military has no authority to intervene in city governance. How can they protect me?"


    "You''re not telling me that for my sake, a discard, they would publicly confront the Investigation Bureau, are you?"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu smiled again and then said softly, "Fourth Master, are you aware of... the military''s Security Department?"


    Master Qin Si''s body jolted sharply, his face showing a realization and...excitement.


    ....


    In the next fifteen minutes, Qiu Tu vividly laid out the benefits of siding with the Security Department to Master Qin Si.


    For instance, the Security Department would protect Master Qin Si to the military''s safe house and destroy all traces, ensuring the Investigation Bureau couldn''t find any.


    This was a lot more reliable than the Qin Family''s promise to send Master Qin Si to prison.


    For example, the Security Department would arrest Qin Zhengguang based on Master Qin Si''s report, clearing the way for Master Qin Si and Third Master Qin to take over.


    For instance, the Security Department would grant a special amnesty to Master Qin Si for surrendering and reporting others, he wouldn''t be punished, and after everything was over, Master Qin Si would regain his freedom, and so on....


    After hearing the prospects Qiu Tu depicted, although Master Qin Si still hesitated, he was clearly tempted.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t pressure or rush him. Being deeply knowledgeable about human nature, he knew that in order to make someone take the bait, it was essential to balance giving slack and pulling tight¡ªpatience was crucial.


    Therefore, they set a final deadline. Neither early nor late, it was precisely one hour before Qin Heng was to meet Yan Chen: 7 o''clock. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After that time, their deal would be void. Before then, Master Qin Si would have ample time to think it over and make his final decision.


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu looked at the sky outside and felt the sunset was unexpectedly beautiful.


    Although it wasn''t yet time, he was already more than 90% sure that this fire would ignite.


    During the days he had been in contact with Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu had already figured out his character through various pieces of intelligence.


    Perhaps because he was the last son of the first wife, Master Qin Si had been willful and defiant from a young age, not only cold-hearted but also a tremendous gambler.


    Qiu Tu remembered a saying that Master Qin Si often had on his lips: "To the victor belong the spoils, he who gambles must accept loss."


    Therefore, if the same conditions were given to Qin Zhengguang, he would most likely give up due to familial affection or the risks involved.


    But Master Qin Si.... As long as there was a sliver of possibility, he wouldn''t resign himself to fate....


    So, having given him such great hope, all he had to do now was quietly wait for him to bite....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu no longer focused on Master Qin Si but went to his bedroom to check on his Cataclysmic Potion.


    Pushing open the bedroom door, he was first hit with a briny scent, like that of the sea. Following that, Qiu Tu felt as if he had been transported into the midst of a vast ocean.


    At this moment, the whole room had turned azure blue, and the rippling surface of the water reflected on the ceiling as if it were the ocean floor.


    The sounds of the sea breeze and the lapping waves surrounded him.


    He reached out, and the sea water flowed over his body, soaking his clothes through and sticking them tight against him....


    "Hey! Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu!"


    While Qiu Tu was engrossed in this "indoor ocean" spectacle, suddenly, he heard Shen Lingshuang''s voice calling out to him.


    Groggily coming back to his senses, Qiu Tu realized he was standing in his bedroom.


    But... there was no ocean, no sea breeze, no waves in sight, only a room full of alchemy equipment and ingredients.


    ''Was everything just now a hallucination?''


    Qiu Tu was startled, but then he noticed something was off because... he truly seemed as though he had just been pulled out of the sea, drenched from head to toe.


    "Drip... Drip..."


    Qiu Tu looked down; his shirt, pants, and shoes were all soaked, dripping water.


    He touched a drop of water and tasted it. It was salty....


    Qiu Tu looked up at Shen Lingshuang, who appeared concerned, and asked, "What happened to me?"


    Shen Lingshuang was hesitant.


    She carefully said, "I''m not sure either...."


    "I''ve encountered something similar before. But... my father told me it involves the truth of the Cataclysm and the nature of the world."


    "He said unless one embarks on the path of the Cataclysm, there''s no need to know. So, I don''t understand what''s going on either. All I can say is, this isn''t the first occurrence."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned to the bubbling blue Magic Potion within the device....


    Could it be that all that just happened was caused by this bottle of Cataclysmic Potion in front of him?


    Just a potion, and it could create such a vivid hallucination? Moreover... could this hallucination turn from fiction to fact?


    Then... how wondrous must the world of the supernaturally gifted be...?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu looked at Shen Lingshuang and inquired, "How much longer until the Potion is ready?"


    Shen Lingshuang paused for a moment, "Ten minutes."


    Qiu Tu nodded, "I''m going to change my clothes."


    Having said that, he took a towel from the restroom to dry off his body, and then found a couple of clean clothes in the living room to change into.


    Just like that, ten minutes passed in a flash.


    By the time Qiu Tu had changed, Shen Lingshuang walked slowly out of the bedroom holding two bottles of azure Potion¡­

 Chapter 50 - 48: Successful Cataclysm Awakening (Urgent Plea for Follow-up Reads)

    With just a glance, Qiu Tu felt his gaze irresistibly drawn to the two bottles of potion, as blue as the deep ocean.


    It was as if some invisible force was tugging at his spirit, pulling him deeply into the gem-like liquid, leaving him unable to extricate himself for the moment.


    It seemed that the unique salty scent of the ocean once again lingered in his nostrils; the low chanting of waves hitting the shore echoed in his ears, as the vast expanse of the sea emerged before his eyes¡­.


    Fortunately, with the experience he just had, he didn''t sink into the sea but, with a jolt, managed to break free from the hallucination.


    Shen Lingshuang was a bit surprised that he was able to break free from the hallucination for the second time so quickly and exclaimed, "Qiu Tu, you might actually have the talent to become a Cataclysmic."


    "I remember I went through a dozen similar hallucinations and had to be awakened by my father each time."


    Having said that, she glanced down at the two bottles of Cataclysmic Potion she had concocted, feeling a little sentimental, "Also, although I''m not sure what exactly happened this time."


    "But I always feel that the Cataclysmic Potion I concocted this time seems different from before."


    She tilted her head, her eyes swirling with the light of reminiscence, and said cutely, "I feel that the effects of this batch of potions are particularly strong. Even I fall involuntarily into hallucinations every time I look at them."


    "This is a phenomenon I have never encountered before."


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu immediately had a guess in his heart: Perhaps... thanks to the right time, place, and people, the probability of Cataclysm Awakening for these two potions was indeed high enough, which is why there was such a special phenomenon. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, he took one bottle of potion from Shen Lingshuang''s hand, and then glanced over to the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    In the upper left corner, two small treasure chests were flashing, with no new crisis countdown emerging.


    ''It seems there''s at least no danger to life.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu made up his mind.


    He shook the bottle of potion.


    "Qiu Tu!"


    As the potion swayed, the hallucination slowly began to appear again. But at that moment, Shen Lingshuang''s crisp voice sounded in Qiu Tu''s ear.


    Qiu Tu stopped his action and looked at the young girl before him.


    Shen Lingshuang gently placed her hand on Qiu Tu''s hand, her beautiful eyes filled with worry, "Are you... really sure you want to drink this potion?"


    Sensing the girl''s nervous mood, Qiu Tu made a light-hearted joke, "What? Did you spit in it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ill-timed joke, Shen Lingshuang''s face turned red as she protested, "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted her head, then said softly, "Don''t worry. I''ll be fine."


    "Besides, I''ve made proper arrangements for all of you."


    With that, his smile was warm and full of strength, "If I don''t come back, ''Eagle'' will take you away from Xinjie City and send you home."


    "I''ve prepared two little goldfish and two hundred Silver Yuan for you, which should be enough for your fare back to the Third Sanctuary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang turned pale, her grip tightening on Qiu Tu''s hand as she clarified, "I''m not concerned for myself. I''m worried about you."


    "I always feel that... "


    But before she could finish, the hand Qiu Tu had on her head turned into a chop and deftly struck the back of her neck.


    The next second, the girl, with an incredulous expression on her face, slumped softly into Qiu Tu''s arms.


    Carefully, Qiu Tu took the second bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, placed the two potions temporarily on the table, then picked her up by the waist and walked towards the door.


    A moment later, with the sound of his home''s door opening, the door to the room next door also opened from the inside.


    Eagle stepped out of the house.


    He nodded at Qiu Tu, then stepped aside to clear the doorway.


    Carrying Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu entered the next room, where a woman in her thirties was already waiting.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, she hurriedly stepped aside, and Qiu Tu carefully placed Shen Lingshuang onto the bed.


    Then he instructed the woman, "Sister Xin, I''ll have to trouble you to look after this girl."


    Sister Xin immediately responded, rubbing her hands together, "Ah-Tu, don''t worry. You''ve taken care of us for so many years, we''re all grateful and will surely return the favor."


    "Leave her with me, and I''ll take good care of her. Even if she wakes up, I''ll keep her calm."


    Qiu Tu nodded and then left the room.


    Approaching the door, he looked at Eagle standing by the entrance and softly instructed, "Stand guard at my doorstep."


    "If something goes wrong, don''t hesitate, take Sister Xin and Shen Lingshuang and leave immediately."


    Eagle replied with a "hm," his gaze steady.


    Qiu Tu then took out his communicator and handed it to him, ordering, "If Old Fourth Qin calls before I come out, you respond as I taught you this afternoon."


    "I don''t care about the rest, but most importantly, make sure he takes Qin Shuman away from the Qin Family."


    "At that time, there will be people from the military waiting to meet them at the designated location."


    Eagle grunted again in acknowledgment.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Over the past few days, I''ve got my hands on thousands of Silver Yuan from the Investigation Bureau and the Qin Family, all stashed in the black car that Qin Zhengguang brought over today."


    "If something happens to me, you guys take this money and drive to Eastern City in the south."


    "The Bureau Chief there has issues with Yan Chen, so they won''t go after you. You can settle there or use it as a transit point."


    The Eagle fell silent for a moment, seemingly uncomfortable with Qiu Tu''s plans for the worst-case scenario, but eventually spoke up to persuade, "Do we really have to take this gamble?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu slapped his shoulder, his words carrying a mixture of resilience and openness, "How can one rise above without taking risks?"


    "We''re already fortunate to have this chance to gamble. Who knows how many people wish for a chance to gamble but never get one?"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu turned and went back to his room, then closed the door.


    The reason he had arranged everything in such meticulous detail was because he also wasn''t sure what would happen after drinking the Cataclysmic Potion.


    Although there might not be a risk to his life, the dangers of the Cataclysmic Potion didn''t lie in taking lives, but... mutation, degeneration, and alteration were all possibilities.


    That was why he had put everything in order before setting off on this path filled with unknowns.


    Like Shen Lingshuang''s journey home, Qin Shuman''s freedom, like the livelihood of Ah-Tai and Eagle for the next few years...


    In the end, there was still a trace of kindness in his heart...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu lifted his head and took another deep look at the dark, tranquil sky outside the window. Then he picked up a bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, removed the cork, and drank it down with a decisive tilt of his head!


    ''After all, I have lived again, and slept with a great beauty like Qin Shuman, it''s worth it!''


    As the Cataclysmic Potion slid down his throat, for a moment, Qiu Tu felt a coolness spreading swiftly from his throat to his chest and abdomen, then quickly to every corner of his body.


    In the next instant, he felt as if he were submerged in a clear, azure ocean once more.


    Only this time, it was different from the previous experiences; he dived straight into the depths of the sea, or rather... he became the sea itself.


    His thoughts began to disperse and drift away, like raindrops scattered by the wind, merging into rivers, lakes, and oceans. He seemed to become the water droplets, the morning dew, the storms of the Cataclysmic world.


    He roamed with the storms over every inch of land controlled by the Sanctuaries!


    It was an indescribably mystical feeling, yet it immersed him...


    However, the peaceful moment was short-lived. As he delved deeper, the mist around him turned increasingly viscous and filthy, as if the clear waters had transformed into foul, thick bitumen.


    His entire being felt encased, becoming rigid and slow, even breathing became difficult.


    Darkness intensified along with the sense of danger, the shadow of fear, and the flames of anger mingling in his heart.


    At the very brink of collapse, that coolness within Qiu Tu finally burst forth. It served as his final bastion, guarding the last bit of his consciousness, and freed him from his constraints!


    Qiu Tu stirred the storms again, carrying clouds of mist as he escaped from the thick, foul abyss.


    After an indeterminate period, when Qiu Tu finally escaped the suffocating area, he looked back.


    His perception seemed to pierce through the layers of space, revealing a brand-new world¡ªwhat was once a vast and boundless ocean was merely a small pond, while most of the world was enveloped in darkness as dense as bitumen, mud...


    In that instant, a boundless sorrow surged within him, as if he mourned for the entire world...


    A second later, he completely lost consciousness...


    Time passed, maybe 10 minutes, perhaps an hour. When Qiu Tu awoke from the darkness,


    He found his body had undergone many changes, and his mind also possessed much new information...


    These were the codes engraved on the cornerstone of the world, revealing the secrets of the universe''s supernatural powers. Every supernatural being receives this mysterious gift upon their first awakening.


    Closing his eyes, he quietly sorted through the information in his mind.


    After a while, Qiu Tu slowly opened his eyes.


    The next second, his normally deep black pupils transformed into a clear azure blue.


    At the same time, his sight suddenly blurred, as if a layer of frosted glass had been laid over it. The material world around him began to fade, replaced by a dim, dreamlike fog that quietly spread.


    Looking around, the objects he saw were no longer tangible, but a collection of nearly transparent, almost vanishing lines.


    His gaze penetrated the illusory walls, clearly seeing the neighboring room where a cluster of lively fire lay quietly, and another of dim fire sat beside.


    Looking outside the door, a cluster of fire paced restlessly. Beyond that cluster, a few kilometers away, a giant shadow stood tens of meters tall, silent, majestic, and solemn...


    ''Era of Disaster, Boundless Heart Sea...''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu slowly exited the state of Spiritual Vision, his expression complex.


    The information obtained from the origin of the world finally allowed him to complete the secrets of this world...

 Chapter 51 - 49: The First Cataclysmic Ability (7000 words, please follow)

    According to the information etched into the cornerstone of the world, this world did indeed experience a catastrophic upheaval known as the "Apocalyptic Cataclysm" several decades ago.


    This great disaster plunged the whole world into a chaotic and shattered abyss, with all creatures undergoing a baptism and enlightenment by Catastrophe Power.


    What''s more serious is that, because of this great disaster, above the material world, a spiritual realm named "Boundless Heart Sea" was born.


    That world is the collective manifestation of the consciousness of all things, mirroring the material world and affecting each other. Its landscape changes with the beliefs, emotions, and memories of the living, yet it, in turn, affects the real world.


    Order, Chaos, Life, Immortality, Destruction, and Mystery are the six Catastrophic powers that were born in the "Boundless Heart Sea".


    Every creature who steps onto the path of transcendence will resonate with one of these six powers and then... become a "Practitioner" of these six powers in the material world.


    The power that Qiu Tu resonated with was... Order.


    Coming back to his senses, Qiu Tu''s eyes revealed deep thought.


    He wasn''t surprised that the path he resonated with was Order. After all, for most of the more than twenty years before he crossed over, he had lived in a peaceful and stable era.


    Even during the years when he was locked up, he always longed to return to a life of orderly and peaceful Order.


    What surprised him was... the branch he was on the path of Order...


    "Order-Political."


    "Politics refers to the actions of governing a nation by the government, political parties, etc. and it''s the sum of all kinds of social activities and social relationships that revolve around state power," he thought.


    "In the Era of Disaster, establishing a stable, healthy nation is undoubtedly the best way to guide humanity towards recovery."


    "So, climbing to the top within the existing Sanctuary system, or building a new nation from scratch, would be the best way for me to walk the path of Order?" he wondered.


    "The higher my position and the greater my authority, the more people I can gather, call upon, and influence, and the stronger my power will be?"


    Recalling the information in his mind, Qiu Tu wore a strange expression.


    ''So... to increase my strength, I must get promoted? From Staff to Director, Bureau Chief? And then from ruling one city to dominating the Planning Area, and then reigning over the Sanctuary?'' he pondered.


    ''Only by making everyone submit to my Order can I reach the pinnacle of this transcendent path?'' he considered.


    To tell the truth, Qiu Tu felt that this goal was a bit too grand and exaggerated.


    He felt that although he had some ambition, at most he wanted to be a staff head or a director, take the state stipend; have a few beautiful subordinates to have heart-to-heart talks with, drink tea, and handle official business.


    Suddenly being asked to take such a high position and having the heavy responsibility of rebuilding the entire human Order placed on him, he felt quite overwhelmed.


    But... the supernatural power of this world was just so special, once someone''s path was determined, it couldn''t be changed.


    So...


    Qiu Tu blinked, "How about setting a smaller goal first? Taking Yan Chen''s position?"


    "From Staff to Bureau Chief should be enough to give my supernatural power a dramatic transformation, right?"


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also firmly resolved: Then let''s start by taking Yan Chen''s position!


    After making up his mind, Qiu Tu''s mentality also became much more peaceful.


    He temporarily set aside his thoughts and began to focus on his body''s condition after the Cataclysm Awakening.


    He meticulously checked his body.


    After the examination, the most direct feeling was that his body seemed to have been remodeled. Not only had he become stronger, his skin had become finer, and even the scars on his body were gone.


    He clenched his fists and swung forward, "Whoosh!" a gust of wind caused papers to fly everywhere!


    "So strong," Qiu Tu muttered in surprise.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but he had the feeling that he could now kill a bull with a single punch.


    He put his fist down, then half-squatted, gathering strength in his knees, and suddenly pushed off.


    The next second, his head collided solidly with the ceiling!


    There was a "bang!" as Qiu Tu, holding his head, fell to the ground.


    Hey, it didn''t hurt.


    "Thud thud thud!"


    Just as Qiu Tu was engaged in these experiments, all of a sudden, someone knocked on the door from outside.


    Along with the knocking, there was Eagle''s inquiry, "Brother Tu, is that you? Are you alright?"


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses and looked towards the door.


    In the state of Spiritual Vision just now, He saw that although Eagle was outwardly calm, he was, in fact, always very worried about him: pacing outside.


    Eagle must have heard the unusual noises inside the room by now but hadn''t seen him come out, suspecting that his Cataclysm Awakening had failed, which is why he was anxious.


    With that thought, he said, "I''m fine," as he walked toward the door, ready to open it.


    He grabbed the doorknob and gave it a twist.


    "Creak." The door didn''t open.


    The doorknob had been twisted off.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    The Eagle outside clearly became more anxious, asking again, "Brother Tu, are you sure you''re alright?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t bother fixing the door; he simply punched the door lock.


    With a "boom!" the wood around the door lock shattered, creating a hole.


    The Eagle outside jumped in shock, instinctively wanting to step back, but at that moment, Qiu Tu had already reached through the hole to pull the door down.


    "Find someone to replace the door for me later. Get a metal one. The wooden one isn''t sturdy enough," Qiu Tu casually said as he tossed the door aside, leaving Eagle with a dashing view of his back.


    Eagle was dumbstruck by this scene, taking a moment to come to his senses.


    After a short pause, he took a deep breath to calm down, then strode into the room.


    Entering the room, he cautiously examined Qiu Tu a few times before asking in a low voice, "Brother Tu, did you succeed?"


    After speaking, he licked his lips and asked, "Are Cataclysmics this strong?"


    For the reticent Eagle, managing to utter these two sentences already demonstrated the shock and curiosity in his heart.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu simply had him act as a sparring partner to test his current strength.


    Five minutes later, after Eagle had been knocked down for the Nth time, he was rubbing his sore arm and his body was covered in bruises, with disbelief filling his eyes.


    Although Qiu Tu used to be everyone''s big brother, it was mainly because of his smart brain, combined with the fact that he had nurtured everyone like a father and a brother. As for physical fitness and fighting ability, he was actually quite average.


    Not to mention Ah-Tai, even Eagle would definitely be able to take on two Qiu Tu.


    Yet now... Eagle found himself completely powerless under Qiu Tu''s hands.


    No matter what move Eagle tried, Qiu Tu simply slapped him away, sending Eagle tumbling to the ground.


    After being hit several times, Eagle gradually became familiar with Qiu Tu''s routine. He figured that with a few tricks up his sleeve, he could exchange a few moves with Qiu Tu.


    But as it turned out... none of that worked: even if he could see clearly, his speed simply couldn''t keep up, and his body couldn''t react in time.


    So, after just five minutes of practice, Eagle was gasping for air and drenched in sweat.


    "Strong... so strong... Is this what Cataclysmics are like?"


    Eagle felt that with the combat power Qiu Tu was now demonstrating, he could take on twenty or thirty young adults by himself¡ªand that was with Qiu Tu not being adept at fighting.


    At that moment, after hearing Eagle''s words, Qiu Tu just smiled and didn''t say anything.


    The strength of the Cataclysmics isn''t limited to enhanced physicality. Those unique and bizarre abilities are what truly make them fearsome...


    ...and they mark the insurmountable gulf between Cataclysmics and ordinary people...


    For instance, the Cataclysmic ability Qiu Tu gained when he first awakened: Reshape Order.


    This ability allowed Qiu Tu to set one rule every day.


    The rule could only affect a fixed space no larger than eight cubic meters, and it only lasted for one day. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as long as the beings or objects within this space were not of a higher rank than Qiu Tu, they would be affected by this rule.


    According to Qiu Tu''s understanding, he could set any rule within a space, even if the rule was "water flows upwards" or "women don''t wear pants" or "people can''t die," it would work.


    The only problem is, he could only set one rule, and he couldn''t affect those of a rank higher than his.


    But for Qiu Tu, this was enough.


    Moreover, this was the ability effect of his Deputy Staff position. With future promotions, this ability would obviously strengthen further, suggesting immense potential...


    And as he grew, he would obtain a second ability, a third ability, a fourth ability...


    He would become more and more powerful.


    ''So, to settle the score with the Qin Family, to deal with Jia Shu, to conquer Yan Chen, and to climb to the peak of Xinjie City step by step!''


    ''That is the path I will follow next!''


    Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute and fervent, filled with the desire to burn everything...


    Having tested all his abilities, Qiu Tu arranged for Eagle to restore the room to its original condition, while he solemnly stowed the second bottle of the Cataclysmic Potion and went next door to carry Shen Lingshuang back.


    Perhaps because she had been constantly anxious since her arrest by the Investigation Bureau, or maybe because Qiu Tu''s chopping blow had been a bit too heavy, Shen Lingshuang was still unconscious even after an hour had elapsed.


    So, Qiu Tu placed her on his bed, tucked her in, and let her continue to rest, while he sat on the living room sofa, patiently waiting for Master Qin Si''s call.


    With the worst possibilities averted, everything seemed to be back on its original track, only Qiu Tu knew he had become a completely different person...


    Time stealthily slipped away. Soon, it was the time Qiu Tu and Master Qin Si had agreed upon.


    Five minutes before 7:00 PM, Qiu Tu''s communicator vibrated sharply.


    Feeling the vibration of the communicator, the resting Qiu Tu opened his eyes and looked down to pick it up.


    As expected, the call was from Master Qin Si.


    A smile curled at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth as he answered the call.


    From the other end of the communicator came Master Qin Si''s hoarse, angry voice, "I agree to your terms."


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Fourth Master, you won''t regret this."


    Clenching his teeth, Master Qin Si growled lowly, "I just can''t accept it, I can''t bear it!"


    "Why must I be the sacrifice!"


    "I''m the biological son of my father too, his own brother!"


    "Why! Why!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu smoothly responded, "Fourth Master, I understand you. Isn''t life all about seeking six words."


    "Fairness! Fairness! Damn fairness!"


    "Why should you be the one to suffer all the hardships, while Commissioner Qin and Director Qin enjoy all the blessings?"


    "Just because you were born a few years later?"


    Qiu Tu''s words hit right at the heart of Master Qin Si.


    In these few hours, he must have gone through multiple mental struggles and faced a lot of pressure from the main and secondary branches of the Qin Family.


    Thus, biting his teeth, Master Qin Si said fiercely, "Exactly! I won''t accept this!"


    Then, in a lower voice, he asked, "So, tell me, what do you want me to do? How can I connect with the military?"


    Even in such a moment, Qiu Tu didn''t take things lightly.


    He spoke deliberately, "Fourth Master, the plan is straightforward, but we must take it step by step. What you need to do tonight is just keep your communicator open and listen for my instructions."


    "If Commissioner Qin pressures you again, or asks for your opinion, you can agree for the time being to appease him, then let him go and see Bureau Chief Yan."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the time and said, "It''s now 7 o''clock sharp. It takes about 20 minutes to travel from the Qin residence to the villa in the city."


    "Therefore, Commissioner Qin should leave the Qin residence around 7:30."


    "At that time, I will give you new instructions."


    Master Qin Si genuinely seemed eager to cooperate, so he replied in a deep tone, "Fine. Then I''ll wait for your message."


    After hanging up the communicator, Qiu Tu stood up, a smile on his face.


    As he walked to the window and looked out at the evening sky growing dark, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted for an instant, then his dark eyes suddenly turned a deep blue.


    A gray fog spread, materiality dissolved, and his spirit ascended to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Distance and walls were no longer obstacles, and his gaze penetrated countless spaces, focusing on the Qin residence...


    ''The show is about to begin...''


    ----


    I''ll be challenging Sanjiang tomorrow, so I''m asking everyone to catch up on the reading tomorrow and cast your votes for recommendations and Monthly Tickets, thank you!

 Chapter 52 - 50: The Qin Family on Fire (7k Words Plea for Follow-up Read 1/2)

    ```


    Time ticked away, second by second.


    Soon, it was 7:25.


    Yan Chen left the Qin Family''s Main Residence under the escort of a motorcade, heading towards the City Center Garden villa where Yan Chen lived, five minutes earlier than Qiu Tu had predicted.


    Through his Spiritual Vision, Qiu Tu watched from afar as Qin Heng left and took out his communicator to call Master Qin Si.


    The call connected, and Master Qin Si''s deliberately lowered voice came from the other side, "Hello? What''s happened?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Commissioner Qin is gone. We can act now."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si felt a surge in his heart.


    He reflexively looked at the wall clock, which showed it was 7:26. Four minutes earlier than Qiu Tu''s original plan.


    It might seem like a mere four minutes, but it signified a completely different meaning: Qiu Tu had actually been in control of Qin Heng''s movements all along!?


    At that thought, Master Qin Si first felt a bit annoyed¡ªhe had truly underestimated Qiu Tu before, not expecting Qiu Tu to be so capable; then he felt somewhat pleased¡ªafter all, the more capable Qiu Tu''s methods were, the more his own safety was guaranteed.


    With this in mind, he also adjusted his mood and then asked, "So, we start executing the plan now? Do you need me to do anything?"


    In response to his question, Qiu Tu said in the gentlest tone possible, "Fourth Master, the first thing you need to do now is call your wife and children to pack their valuables and be ready at a moment''s notice."


    "Oh, and remember to have them pack all the house deeds and wealth they can carry with them. Take whatever you can and hide what cannot be taken."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a sudden shock went through Master Qin Si. Having been a figure in this field for many years, he immediately sensed something amiss.


    Having his wife and children pack up house deeds and money...?


    This...?


    Master Qin Si tentatively asked, "Qiu Tu, why are you making these arrangements? Wouldn''t it be more convenient for them to stay at the Qin residence?"


    Qiu Tu spoke with genuine earnestness, "Fourth Master. You''re breaking away from the Qin Family to join the military''s side, which means confronting Director Qin and the Investigation Bureau fiercely."


    "This is a fight to the death, not some dinner invitation."


    "If at this time, your wife and children are still at the Qin residence, and they discover something is wrong and use it to threaten you, how will you deal with that?"


    Master Qin Si instinctively opened his mouth, intending to make some arguments, but Qiu Tu, as if guessing his thoughts, directly said, "To take a step back, even if your elder and second brothers wouldn''t use their brother''s wife and nephews to blackmail you. But... what about the Investigation Bureau? The Political Department?"


    "They have no kinship with you. Why should they consider your feelings?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Fourth Master, don''t forget what I told you yesterday: There are never any miscarriages of justice within the Political Department."


    "Are you really willing to gamble with your wife and children''s lives?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si''s expression changed rapidly. After a moment, he said in a deep voice, "I understand. I''ll arrange for them to start packing right away."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu stood quietly by the window, looking into the distance.


    He didn''t care about Master Qin Si''s distrust and doubts. After all... he never had good intentions.


    To truly control a person, just offering incentives is not enough. Between life and death, the best approach is to grasp their vulnerabilities¡ªtheir family.


    Hostages from enemy states, families of devoted soldiers... it has always been so throughout history.


    Therefore, the first step Qiu Tu had to take was to grasp Master Qin Si''s vulnerability.


    Of course... with their current identities, Master Qin Si would certainly not willingly give up this leverage, so Qiu Tu had to make him see reality and then gradually guide him...


    Qiu Tu patiently waited half an hour.


    8:00.


    As Patriarch of the Qin Family Qin Heng stepped into the City Center Garden and began his conversation with Yan Chen, Qiu Tu picked up the communicator and issued a second command to Master Qin Si.


    "Next, please arrange for several of your confidants to escort your wife and children out of the Qin residence to a safe place to hide temporarily, waiting to rendezvous with you."


    Fishing could never solely rely on brute force, a mix of slack and tension is required to successfully reel in the fish that takes the bait.


    Just now, Qiu Tu had made Master Qin Si worried about his family''s situation, even suggesting that Qiu Tu was about to grasp his vulnerability.


    Now, Qiu Tu needed to dispel that suggestion, releasing the leverage: he let Master Qin Si send his own confidants to escort and chose the safehouse himself, not interfering at all, just to "tell" Master Qin Si that he had no ulterior motives.


    This contrast would not only thrill Master Qin Si, making him too excited to think clearly in these critical moments about whether Qiu Tu might have other plans...


    Therefore, he agreed very readily, and in less than ten minutes, everything was arranged.


    And Qiu Tu...


    Turned and left the room, called for Eagle, and gave his service weapons to Eagle...


    Eagle, holding the gun, went downstairs.


    Downstairs stood the group of temporary detectives who had originally come to Qiu Tu''s aid and... Ah-Tai, who had since joined the Special Service Department, dressed in the formal detective uniform, equally armed with a service weapon, towering at a height of 1.9 meters, with a build like a bear, resembling a King Kong...


    8:15.


    The wife and children of Master Qin Si left the Qin residence quietly under the escort of six bodyguards, heading towards one of Master Qin Si''s safehouses.


    Before entering the safehouse, they were intercepted by Ah-Tai and his people.


    Faced with two handguns, a Special Service Detective, and over a dozen temporary detectives wielding police weapons, the six bodyguards had almost no chance to resist, were disarmed, and not a single one managed to escape....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu''s third order was issued to Master Qin Si: he instructed Master Qin Si to have the maids take Qin Shuman to the main residence''s garden for a walk and to arrange a team of confidants for her protection.


    8:35.


    As planned, Qin Shuman arrived at the main residence''s garden and started walking near the pond where she and Qiu Tu had fished together.


    Master Qin Si''s confidants quietly took their positions.


    8:45.


    Just as Patriarch of the Qin Family Qin Heng and Yan Chen''s conversation was heating up... S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ```


    Qiu Tu finally cast off his disguise and issued the fourth command to Master Qin Si, he directed Master Qin Si to arrange for a confidant to, within 20 minutes, gather as much kindling, gasoline, and fuel oil as possible to act as accelerants.


    This time, Master Qin Si distinctly felt something was wrong and asked with a cold face what Qiu Tu was really planning to do.


    But Qiu Tu simply said indifferently, "Fourth Master, just do it."


    After hanging up the phone, Master Qin Si''s complexion rapidly changed.


    Kindling, gasoline, fuel oil¡ª all inflammable materials. It was not hard to guess what Qiu Tu planned to do with these gathered together: it was to start a fire.


    But...where this fire was to be set, where it burned to, bore completely different implications.


    Master Qin Si was intent on clarifying everything, but by this time, Qiu Tu had already hung up the phone.


    Coupled with the fact that so much had already been done and the constraint of a 20-minute deadline...


    In the end, Master Qin Si grit his teeth and still played his luck. He picked up the communicator and made several calls...


    Qiu Tu was not surprised by Master Qin Si''s choice.


    The reason he didn''t inform Master Qin Si of the entire plan for the evening beforehand was not only to prevent Master Qin Si from leaking information, but also to give him no chance to refuse.


    If he had laid out the entire plan, Master Qin Si might have refused or hesitated, either because the plan was too outrageous, or there was a part of it he didn''t like.


    However, when Qiu Tu guided him step by step, because Master Qin Si was unaware of the full extent of the plan, by the time he realized something was amiss, he no longer had an escape route.


    Could he call back his confidants? Could he bring his wife and children back to the Qin Family? Take back the money and deed to the house?


    He wouldn''t. The enormous sunk costs would press on him to continue moving forward.


    So, 20 minutes later, when Qiu Tu called Master Qin Si, although the latter''s tone was poor, he still had everything ready.


    And at this moment, Qiu Tu revealed his ultimate goal.


    He issued the final command to Master Qin Si:


    To set the Qin Family''s Main Residence ablaze in the chaos, kill the rotational detectives and maids guarding Qin Shuman''s side, and then flee the Qin Family with Qin Shuman.


    Upon learning Qiu Tu''s ultimate intent, Master Qin Si went mad.


    He thought he was crazy enough, but Qiu Tu was even crazier!


    So he roared on the other end of the communicator, "Do you have any idea what you''re doing! Setting fire to one of Xinjie City''s largest clan''s main residence! Assassinating officers with official statuses!"


    "Are you trying to make me rebel?!"


    "If I do this, who could protect me!"


    "You want to play! I''m not playing with you anymore!"


    Hearing Master Qin Si''s hysterical roar, Qiu Tu laughed.


    Then he simply said, "You might want to call your sister-in-law and your little nephew."


    "They must really want to see you."


    Upon hearing this, Master Qin Si''s mind went blank.


    He suddenly realized he had missed something!


    Qiu Tu had seemed too innocent before, making him forget that this was a schemer who delighted in manipulating others and betraying them for fun!


    Qiu Tu painted a grand vision for him, and step by step, he was led into Qiu Tu''s rhythm, along with Qiu Tu''s constant "countdown" that rushed him to execute the plan, leaving him no time to consider any underhanded moves by Qiu Tu.


    Now, as he calmed down, he realized he had been duped: if Qiu Tu could monitor Qin Heng, he could just as easily surveil him and his family!


    Even if he sent his trusted aides for protection, his aides were exposed while Qiu Tu lurked in the shadows, able to amass more people than his confidants to take his wife and children hostage!


    So... did he just hand over half of his fortune and his wife and children to Qiu Tu?!


    Perhaps sensing the incredulity and rage emanating from Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu spoke slowly,


    "Please don''t misunderstand, Fourth Master. The reason I sent someone to protect your sister-in-law and nephew is because only I am authorized to interact with the military, and they do not allow contact with anyone else."


    "Thus, as long as you carry out the task well, once you reach the military''s safe house, you and your sister-in-law, and your nephew will be reunited."


    "As for... burning the Qin residence and murdering the detectives. Heh... isn''t it just a messy affair?"


    "As long as we win, we just need to find a few fall guys, have the military mediate, and what trouble can''t be overcome?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si was seething with fury. He didn''t believe a word from Qiu Tu any longer!


    But... he really had no other choice!


    Half of his wealth, his wife, his child¡ªthey were all in Qiu Tu''s hands. His trusted aides had been dispatched, and the materials for the fire were ready!


    What could he do? Give up?!


    Thinking thus, Master Qin Si ominously said, "You better keep your word. If you dare to trick me... I''ll fight with my dying breath and not let you off!"


    Qiu Tu chuckled, "Fourth Master, you jest. Aren''t we dear friends, almost like brothers?"


    "How could I possibly trick you."


    Master Qin Si snorted coldly and hung up the phone!


    10 minutes later, at 9:20 PM.


    Flames ferociously erupted at the Qin Family''s Main Residence! The fire raged and roared like a furious beast, devouring one eave after another!


    At that moment... In a villa in City Center Garden, Qin Heng had finally reached an agreement with Yan Chen. The two stood up, shook hands, each with relieved smiles on their faces.


    They were completely unaware of the dramatic changes occurring at the Qin Family''s premises at that moment...


    ----


    This chapter is 3500 words, and there will be another update of around 3500 words at 12 PM. That''s a total of 7000 words.

 Chapter 53 - 51: Cataclysmic Treasure: Nightmare Crystal Vial (7k words, please follow!)

    ```


    Night descended, a vast swathe of velvet drapery that muffled the clamor of the world.


    Twinkles of blue moonlight interwoven with sparse starlight serenely and mysteriously sprinkled across the land.


    In the city''s villa, outside the study.


    In the dim corridor, Yan Chen stood alongside Qin Heng. The light slanted from behind, casting their tall, intersecting shadows, segmenting the silent space into streaks of gold.


    "I didn''t expect the Bureau Chief to have such profound insights into civil affairs. The issues you pointed out are indeed ones we at the Civil Affairs Bureau hadn''t considered."


    "In the future, I shall certainly trouble you more, and I hope you won''t mind."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Yan Chen chuckled twice before he spoke in a deep, husky voice, "Commissioner Qin is too polite."


    "I had a very close relationship with Old Master Qin. Before his passing, he asked me to look after the Qin Family."


    "So in the future, feel free to consult me on any matter."


    The two had already reached a consensus in the study. Now they were just exchanging pleasantries, so the atmosphere was exceptionally harmonious.


    Just then, suddenly, a figure hurriedly approached from the end of the corridor.


    They stopped their conversation to look at the approaching figure.


    It was Qin Heng''s assistant, a member of the younger generation of the Qin Family whom he had carefully cultivated.


    Rushing in front of them, the assistant bowed slightly to Yan Chen and greeted, "Director Yan."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly and grunted from his nose in acknowledgment.


    The assistant then quickly stepped up to Qin Heng and, covering his mouth with his hand, leaned in to report.


    Seeing this, Qin Heng pushed away his hand and chided with a frown, "The Bureau Chief is present. What kind of behavior is this, sneaking around?"


    After speaking, he paused, then added with a serious face, "Whatever it is, report it directly."


    Qin Heng was already frail; speaking with such intensity, he immediately covered his mouth and coughed twice.


    At this time, hearing Qin Heng''s words, the assistant had a troubled expression. He glanced at Yan Chen and then back at Qin Heng.


    Qin Heng understood his assistant''s difficulty but also knew that his family had now completely aligned with Yan Chen. At such a moment, it was crucial to show the proper stance.


    Therefore, he gave the assistant a strict look.


    Seeing this, the assistant, still with a troubled face, made his report,


    "Master."


    Qin Heng glared at him again, "Address me by my position at work."


    Assistant: ...


    "Commissioner, the main house is suspected of being deliberately set on fire."


    "The fire is spreading, and the entire clan is in chaos."


    "Director Qin Zhengguang is organizing emergency firefighting while also conducting a headcount and investigation."


    "Since the fire started in a sparsely populated area, although the blaze is fierce, only two have suffered minor injuries, with no fatalities. But... Fourth Master and his wife and children have all disappeared."


    Upon hearing the assistant''s report, Qin Heng''s expression turned drastically.


    He couldn''t help but look at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen, half-shrouded in darkness, showed no expression on his face, as if he hadn''t heard the report at all.


    Seeing this, Qin Heng tamped down his inner turmoil. He gave a slight nod to Yan Chen and then calmly said, "Bureau Chief, there''s been an incident at the family abode. Please allow me to leave immediately."


    Yan Chen smiled lightly and said, "Commissioner Qin is too courteous. If there''s anything you can''t handle, feel free to contact me."


    Having said that, he called out, "Ji Chen."


    A butler emerged from the dark, standing in front of Yan Chen, head bowed and hands clasped.


    Yan Chen commanded, "You go with Commissioner Qin to take a look."


    Upon hearing this, the butler bowed to Qin Heng and said, "Commissioner Qin, if you please."


    Qin Heng didn''t reject Yan Chen''s kind offer. He first nodded at Yan Chen, then gestured to Ji Chen, before striding away.


    As he gradually left, the inquiry he murmured to his assistant echoed softly in the darkened hallway, "What exactly happened?"


    The assistant hurried behind him, softly responding, "Commissioner, it''s like this..."


    Back at the entrance to the study, Yan Chen stood with his hands behind his back, watching with an unfathomable gaze as Qin Heng''s figure disappeared at the end of the corridor, then turned and re-entered the study.


    Once back inside, beneath the dim light, he strolled over to the desk and picked up the telephone.


    He dialed a few numbers, and once there was a voice on the other end, he ordered, "Check what happened with the Qin family."


    A deep voice from the phone responded, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    ......


    Simultaneously.


    In his home on Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu witnessed through Spiritual Vision as Master Qin Si, leading Qin Shuman and guarded by several henchmen, hurriedly left the Qin residence.


    Behind them, the wild flames danced like an uncontrollable dragon, its furious roars in vain as they failed to stop their departure.


    Watching Master Qin Si and Qin Shuman get into the car, heading for the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu also deactivated his Spiritual Vision.


    The grey fog slowly dissipated, and the material world''s outlines filled back in, solidifying into wall after wall, building after building...


    As the lingering sapphire hue of Spiritual Vision faded from his pupils, Qiu Tu felt a wave of dizziness.


    Bracing himself against the window frame, he struggled to support himself, belatedly realizing he might have overexerted his mental faculties.


    Like Cataclysmic abilities, Spiritual Vision was not without limits; each use required a significant expenditure of spiritual power as a price.


    According to the information carved in the world''s Foundation Stones, this was because all Supernatural Power in this world needed to be driven by Cataclysmic Power, which only existed within the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    Thus, to wield such power in the material world, beings needed to connect with the "Boundless Heart Sea" and actualize Cataclysmic Power into the material realm.


    And this required an immense amount of spiritual power.


    ```


    For someone like Qiu Tu, who had just undergone a Cataclysm Awakening and then forcefully used spiritual vision for an hour, it was an incredibly extreme approach.


    Unless there was a potion to replenish spiritual power or a Cataclysmic treasure, one would need to rest for over ten hours to recover.


    ''A potion to restore spiritual power or a Cataclysmic treasure...?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked toward the two tiny treasure chests in the upper left of his field of vision that were still swaying....


    ''I actually have...''p>


    There were two Crisis Treasure Chests. One was from this morning when Qiu Tu had completed the task in Yan Chen''s office by implicating Master Qin Si, corresponding to the crisis of "Collecting Evidence of the Qin Family''s Crimes."


    The other had popped up automatically after the countdown ended at 6 p.m. today, in response to the crisis of "Creating an Awakening Elixir."


    And Qiu Tu had already checked the contents of these two crises.


    The treasure from "Collecting Evidence of the Qin Family''s Crimes" was still a piece of Cataclysmic Material.


    ''Memory Clay: A precious Cataclysmic Material, bred from the Night Demon Swamp, capable of recording and reproducing a creature''s memory.'' S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''With certain forging skills, one could craft Cataclysmic treasures such as "The Thinking Sculpture," "Reverberation Echo Pot," "Starry Beyond Letter," and "Eye of Future Foresight."''p>


    A piece of Cataclysmic Material that seemed very valuable, but Qiu Tu had no way to use it at the moment.


    As for the treasure chest from "Creating an Awakening Elixir," it was different because it actually contained a Cataclysmic treasure.


    ''Treasure Name: Nightmare Crystal Vial''


    ''Treasure Description: A unique container made primarily from Spirit Breath Crystals. It contains an energy that drives people to madness.''


    ''Treasure Effect: Simply leave it under moonlight for one night, and the vial will be filled with spiritual nourishment condensed from the power of the Cataclysm and the essence of dreams. Drinking it can instantly replenish depleted spiritual power.''


    ''Side Effects: Unknown.''


    ''Note: When you wander the Boundless Heart Sea or confront those terrifying entities trying to devour your mind, the Nightmare Crystal Vial is an indispensable treasure for maintaining mental vigor and resisting mental breakdown.''


    It was because he had obtained this Cataclysmic treasure capable of restoring his spiritual power that Qiu Tu dared to use Spiritual Vision so aggressively....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu clicked on that treasure chest.


    In a moment, a colorfully radiant crystal bottle appeared in his hand.


    The Crystal Bottle was not large, only the size of a thumb, and looked a bit like some kind of oral liquid Qiu Tu had drunk in his past life.


    Holding the Crystal Bottle, he gently shook it twice, and the contents rippled with iridescence like stars.


    Qiu Tu tipped his head back and drank the spiritual nourishment inside. The colorful liquid slid down his throat, as if illuminating every corner of his bones and organs, making them clearly visible.


    Suddenly, the light went out, and Qiu Tu felt a coolness reaching his brain. His thoughts, which had been somewhat painful and fatigued, instantly became crystal clear.


    Qiu Tu shook his head, then opened his mouth and exhaled a colorful bubble....


    Qiu Tu covered his mouth, trying to prevent the bubbles from escaping. But then.... he felt the bubbles continuing to move downward....


    Qiu Tu, alarmed, quickly released his hands, allowing himself to exhale a colorful bubble every now and then....


    After spitting bubbles for a while, the side effects of the Cataclysmic treasure gradually disappeared.


    Feeling his spiritual power restored, Qiu Tu picked up the Nightmare Crystal Vial and shook it; it was now completely empty. It seemed it could only be used again after being left still overnight.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu put the first Cataclysmic treasure he had obtained into his pocket and made sure it was secure.


    Then he stood up, walked next door, called over Sister Xin to help watch over the still-sleeping Shen Lingshuang, and then he went downstairs.


    The climax is never the most important part of a play; it''s the curtain call.


    He had already let Master Qin Si perform in the first half of the play, and in the second half, he intended to personally draw the curtain on this show.


    After all, don''t forget, facilitating Master Qin Si''s escape from the Qin Family was only the first step.


    Negotiating with the military, handling the subsequent reactions from Yan Chen and the Qin Family, and maximizing the benefits from this situation, were the most crucial parts of the entire play....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu got downstairs, started the black sedan given to him by Director Qin Zhengguang, and headed toward the Milan Grand Hotel.


    He didn''t know if the Nightmare Crystal Vial had other special effects.


    The bumpy roads of the Planning Area somehow did not stir any negative emotions in Qiu Tu. He felt exceptionally calm, and even his thoughts seemed to flow much more smoothly.


    ''Ring, ring, ring''¡ªHalfway there, the communicator suddenly rang.


    Qiu Tu gathered his wandering thoughts and picked up the communicator to see it was Jia Shu calling.


    Seeing the name on the communicator, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows knit slightly. He pondered for a moment before calmly answering the call.


    "Good evening, Director."


    From the other side of the phone, Jia Shu''s feigned laughter came through, "What are you busy with, Agent Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and lied without changing his expression, "A friend asked me out for a drink; I''m on my way there."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Jia Shu, on the other side of the communicator, smirked while looking out the window before saying, "Then Agent Qiu, come to the Bureau for some overtime work."


    "There''s an urgent case."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu gradually brought the car to a stop.


    He pondered for two seconds, then suddenly laughed, "Alright."


    Jia Shu continued, "I remember Director Qin gifted you a car at noon today? It should be about a 15-minute drive from your place to the Bureau."


    "Shall we meet in... 18 minutes?"


    Qiu Tu did not refuse, "Yes, Director."


    After hanging up the phone, he looked through the car window at the pitch-black, deserted street, took a deep breath, and his face revealed an inexplicable expression.


    ''Interesting, very interesting.... One should never underestimate the enemy.''


    ''I''ve just made my move, and they''ve already responded?''


    ''But do they really suspect me, or are they just trying to lock down a suspect?''


    After contemplating for two seconds without reaching a conclusion, Qiu Tu smiled nonchalantly.


    Too bad... they can''t hold me down.


    This play, I''ve already got it set.''

 Chapter 54 - 52: Slapping Master Qin Sis Face (Thanks to the Warm Sun Giants Silver League!)

    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu tapped the steering wheel and made a U-turn, heading back towards the Investigation Bureau building.


    He wasn''t idle while driving.


    Jia Shu had indeed restricted his movements, but... he hadn''t restricted his mouth.


    Who said he couldn''t carry on with the act just because he couldn''t be at the scene?


    The real protagonist never complains about the environment!


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took out another communicator while driving: this was the communicator Ah-Tai received after becoming an official agent of the Special Service Department.


    Qiu Tu took Ah-Tai''s communicator and made a call to himself.


    "Dudu... Dudu... Dudu..."


    After a few rings on his own communicator, Qiu Tu answered the call.


    He waited another ten seconds or so before hanging up the communicator.


    After making these preparations, he took Ah-Tai''s communicator and called the third golden supporting role in this drama: Lin Zuo from the Security Department''s Investigation Section.


    Soon, the call connected.


    Lin Zuo''s cool voice came from the receiver, "Hello. Who is this...?"


    Because time was pressing, Qiu Tu didn''t bother with pleasantries and instead got straight to the point, "Lin Zuo, it''s Qiu Tu."


    "My communicator might be monitored for call records, so I''m using this communicator to call you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo didn''t immediately believe him and asked, "How do I know you''re not a voice changer?"


    Qiu Tu said, "416."


    This was the hotel room number from their last meeting, known only to the two of them, so Lin Zuo nodded slightly, preliminarily believing Qiu Tu.


    He asked, "What happened? Have you made any progress on your end?"


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu exaggerated while driving, "Not just progress, it''s a major breakthrough!"


    "I''m preparing a big gift for you."


    Lin Zuo asked in a cool tone, "What kind of gift?"


    Qiu Tu said, "I''ve turned Master Qin Si. He holds evidence of Yan Chen''s collusion with the United Front in his hands."


    As Qiu Tu''s words trailed off, the sound of objects colliding "clatter clatter" suddenly rang from the other side of the communicator.


    If he hadn''t guessed wrong, it was probably because Lin Zuo got too excited and knocked something over when he stood up abruptly.


    Seeing this, a smile crept across Qiu Tu''s lips.


    See... everyone has desires.


    Even the most honest and dedicated person harbors ambitions in their career.


    Once you pinpoint their desires, you can easily "manipulate" them.


    Thinking this, a voice came through the receiver, Lin Zuo suppressing his excitement as he inquired, "Is it true or false?" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu didn''t answer directly but coolly replied to Lin Zuo, "Section Chief Lin, a question like that only makes me feel you''re unprofessional."


    Lin Zuo, momentarily taken aback, calmed down quite a bit.


    He reflected on his question: Indeed, since it was information given by Qiu Tu, no matter how he asked, Qiu Tu would only answer "it''s true."


    To find out if Qiu Tu was lying, he would have to verify it himself.


    ''A sudden clue made me lose my cool.''


    After quietly making a judgment, Lin Zuo''s emotions stabilized, and he returned to his normal professional level as the head of a security department.


    He didn''t ask any more foolish questions, and instead directly started talking business, "What do you need from me?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly. As expected of an elite trained by the Sanctuary, he''s more professional than newly recruited agents.


    With that thought, he said, "Master Qin Si left the Qin Family in two separate groups."


    "He himself is now on his way to the Milan Grand Hotel."


    "His wife and children arrived at a courtyard at 19 Nanfang Street half an hour ago. My people are... protecting them."


    "The clue he has is too important and involves Director Yan, it''s too sensitive."


    "So, I need your Security Department to send someone to clean up any traces left by these two groups of people."


    "Or, at the very least, make sure the trail goes cold."


    "Once the job is done, the safety of Master Qin Si''s wife and children will be the responsibility of my people, and he himself will be under the protection of your Security Department."


    "The intelligence and merits obtained from him will be shared between our two parties."


    Lin Zuo didn''t agree immediately upon hearing this. After thinking it over for a moment, he asked cautiously, "How long ago did this happen?"


    Qiu Tu quickly calculated the time, "Less than 10 minutes."


    Lin Zuo said, "We still have time."


    "I''ll send someone right now to clean up the traces."


    "Guarantee even if the Political Department steps in, they won''t be able to track down any leads to you."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Pleased to cooperate."


    Lin Zuo said, "Pleased to cooperate."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu felt somewhat at ease.


    In creating this plan, the Security Department was one of the cores of Qiu Tu''s strategy.


    With such a commotion today, it was highly likely that Yan Chen would take notice.


    And in order to investigate tonight''s affairs thoroughly, Yan Chen would probably dispatch his trump card¡ªthe Political Department.


    The Political Department, although mostly comprising newly recruited investigators, also included some elite agents who had come down from the Sanctuary.


    If they got involved in the investigation, with non-professionals like Ah-Tai and Eagle leaving behind traces, they would definitely find out everything there was to find.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had to find someone to help handle all traces of the incident.


    And in the whole of Xinjie City, only the military, only the Security Department had such experts who could clean up traces, magically cover up the whereabouts of Master Qin Si and his family without anyone noticing!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to cooperate with the Security Department.


    Of course, knowing how crucial the Security Department was to the plan, Qiu Tu didn''t put all his hopes on Lin Zuo.


    He had a Plan B¡ªstarting with Qin Shuman.


    Just... that would make things much more complicated.


    For now, having negotiated with Lin Zuo and achieving his aim, Qiu Tu''s mood instantly became much lighter.

 Chapter 55 - 52: Slapping Master Qin Sis Face (Thanks to Warm Sun Giants Silver League!)_2

    He watched the streets whizz by outside the car window while murmuring to himself, "As long as I give the word to Master Qin Si, everything will be alright."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up his communicator, ready to call Master Qin Si.


    But unexpectedly, before he could make the call, Master Qin Si''s call came through first.


    Looking at Master Qin Si''s number on his communicator, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, but eventually answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, Master Qin Si''s voice came through, clearly agitated, as though he was suppressing anger, "Qiu Tu! I want to make a deal with you!"


    "A deal?" Qiu Tu glanced at the rearview mirror and asked, "What kind of deal?"


    Master Qin Si said vehemently, "I''ve realized that you''re not a good partner at all!"


    "You''re treacherous and deceitful, taking pleasure in betraying people! Working with you, who knows when you''ll betray me and even help you count the money!"


    "Luckily, for all your planning, you missed one thing!"


    "All you thought about was taking advantage of the chaos to rescue your sweetheart Qin Shuman, but you forgot that after rescuing her, she''d still be in my hands!"


    "I''m telling you! Release my wife and kid now! Otherwise, I''ll kill Qin Shuman!"


    Upon hearing Master Qin Si''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment.


    Then he laughed...


    "Fourth Master, you''ve misunderstood, Qin Shuman is not my sweetheart," he said.


    "At best, we''re just two lonely souls who exchanged some deep conversation late into the night. That''s all."


    "In times of chaos... when there''s only the body, how could there be any feelings?"


    "Hold her hostage all you want, but she cannot threaten me."


    Master Qin Si roared, "Stop talking crap!"


    "Do you really think you can hide your affair with Qin Shuman from me!?"


    "If you had no feelings for her, would you still remember to have me rescue her in today''s situation?"


    "You''re fooling no one!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu let out a "haha" and laughed,


    "Fourth Master, you really have misunderstood. I asked you to save her for only two reasons."


    "First, to legitimately allow you to attack and kill an investigator, severing your means of retreat."


    "Second, to make you offend Yan Chen. You''ve abducted his mistress; do you think with his personality, he would let you go?"


    "As for Qin Shuman, if you want to kill her, go ahead."


    "After all, she''s of no use to me now."


    Shocked by Qiu Tu''s candid words, Master Qin Si hesitated, and his conviction wavered.


    Just then, Qiu Tu added, "However, Fourth Master, I honestly didn''t expect that even at a time like this, you''d still be double-dealing."


    "It seems... I have been too lenient with you."


    Pausing briefly, he continued indifferently, "Choose one of your two children. Which one will you keep?"


    Master Qin Si was first stunned, then he became hysterical, "Qiu Tu, you dare to threaten me?! Do you believe I will kill Qin Shuman right now!"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Alright then. Your eldest son will be the one to die."


    With that, he hung up the call with a "click."


    No sooner had he hung up than the communicator rang again within a second.


    Qiu Tu glanced at it¡ªit was Master Qin Si.


    Hung up.


    Master Qin Si called again.


    Qiu Tu hung up again.


    Master Qin Si called once more.


    This time, Qiu Tu finally answered.


    Master Qin Si''s tone had finally lost its edge as he spoke ingratiatingly, "Agent Qiu. Look, I was just joking with you, why''d you take it seriously?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled, "Fourth Master is truly a gang leader, able to bend and stretch. But say whatever you have quickly, I still have orders to give to my subordinates...."


    Without a hint of compassion, he began to count down, "5."


    Master Qin Si paused for a second, not yet comprehending, and Qiu Tu continued, "4."


    Master Qin Si called out in a hurry, "Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu!"


    Qiu Tu said, "3."


    Master Qin Si said in a panic, "Money! All the money my wife and child carry with them, I''ll give it to you! All of it!"


    Qiu Tu was amused, "Fourth Master, you sure know how to offer flowers in tribute to Buddha."


    "Your wife and child are already in my hands, and naturally, the money and house deeds they carry belong to me. Do I still need you to give them to me?"


    Master Qin Si hurriedly explained, "This money you take directly will always be under the table."


    "I can write a letter of employment commission and stamp it with my seal and handprint. It will prove that I have hired you, and all this money is the reward."


    "Such a document has legal effect at City Hall as well. Can''t the money be laundered then?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was clearly tempted. He pondered for two seconds before smiling and saying, "Fourth Master, it''s a pleasure to cooperate."


    Having said that, he added, "However... I have one more condition."


    Master Qin Si, "What condition?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Now, take out a knife and stab Qin Shuman!"


    Master Qin Si was stunned, "What?"


    Qiu Tu repeated loudly, "I told you to stab Qin Shuman!"


    He explained, "Although I don''t know why you''ve misunderstood the relationship between her and me."


    "I don''t want to give you, or her... any illusions."


    "As to where this stab lands, that''s up to you."


    "Whether she lives or dies is in your hands."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Master Qin Si on the other end of the communicator slowly turned his head, his face full of disbelief as he looked toward Qin Shuman, who was tied up hand and foot, sitting beside him....


    It seemed Qin Shuman had also heard the conversation between the two. Leaning on the car door, her eyes gazing at the scenery flying by outside the window, she said indifferently, "I''ve always said I''m not important to him, and you still didn''t believe it."


    Qiu Tu''s urging voice came through the communicator.


    Master Qin Si''s mouth twitched, and he pulled a dagger from his waist, aiming it fiercely at Qin Shuman''s shoulder and stabbing!


    "Puchi!" The dagger plunged deep into Qin Shuman''s shoulder blade.


    Qin Shuman grunted, her beautiful face contorted with pain.


    With a grim face, Master Qin Si let go of the dagger, then said to Qiu Tu on the other end of the communicator, "Qiu Tu, I''ve completed your task."


    Praise from Qiu Tu came through on the other side of the communicator, "Well done."


    "Next, continue with the plan and head to the Milan Hotel, where someone from the Security Department will meet you."


    "As for your wife and child... as long as you cooperate well, I will ensure their safety."


    "So, Fourth Master, don''t get any more foolish ideas...."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." on the receiver, Master Qin Si''s expression shifted unpredictably.


    After a moment, he turned to look at Qin Shuman, who was in pain and as pale as death, and hissed, "I''ve been in the Jianghu for so many years, and I still have a knack for judging people."


    "He truly doesn''t care about whether you live or die."


    Qin Shuman leaned against the car door, her face painfully pale, but she showed no emotion at all.... S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having hung up the communicator, threw it onto the passenger seat, cursing, "What a class act, playing games with me!"


    Master Qin Si''s biggest mistake was seriously underestimating Qin Shuman''s place in Qiu Tu''s heart.


    Qiu Tu did indeed have a "very close" relationship with Qin Shuman and would choose to help her if it was within his power, but... only if it didn''t stand in Qiu Tu''s way.


    His experience of two lifetimes had taught him that in chaotic times, a man could have many women beneath him, but none in his heart, or at least... not apparently so.


    Because... that would be the most fatal weakness.


    .....


    After making all his calls, Qiu Tu then focused on driving.


    Ten minutes later, he arrived at the Investigation Bureau building.


    As soon as he got out of the car, a Political Department Investigator dressed in a black uniform ran up to him.


    He opened the door for Qiu Tu and saluted him as Qiu Tu got out, "Greetings, officer. The minister asked me to meet you here!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and asked, "Oh? Where is the minister then?"


    Thanks to Warm Sun Giant for the 100,000 reward. Congratulations to Warm Sun Giant for becoming the Silver Alliance of our book! The boss is generous; I wish the boss good health, a happy family, all the best, and abundant wealth!

 Chapter 56 - 53: Dealing with Jia Shu! (Subscribe please!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the detective replied respectfully, "The minister is waiting for you upstairs."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked up at the Investigation Bureau building.


    It seemed as if he could see a pair of profound eyes watching him...


    He smiled.


    This was not bad news.


    Because... since Jia Shu was still in the Investigation Bureau building, it meant that the Political Department had not yet officially intervened in the matter, and that... the Security Department would have ample time to erase any traces.


    He and Ah-Tai, along with Eagle, would be that much safer...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu calculated the time and formed a rough guess in his mind.


    Old Alley Street, the Qin Family, and City Center Garden roughly formed a triangle.


    And the Investigation Bureau building was right in the middle of this triangle.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau, Qin Heng should still be on his way back, not yet having reached the Qin Family residence.


    Before fully understanding the beginning and severity of the event, Qin Heng wouldn''t ask the Investigation Bureau for help.


    Hence the situation, where he had come to the Investigation Bureau building first, and Jia Shu had not yet left.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but make a further speculation: So... did Jia Shu, knowing something had happened to the Qin Family, call and lock him down immediately?


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered.


    Heh heh... Look at that, this is the real master. A step in chess, seemingly effortless, yet it played a critical role, almost disturbing his own plans.


    It''s known that the outcomes of many plans executed in person and those remotely directed can be worlds apart.


    If Qiu Tu had not connected with the Security Department in advance, tricking the Security Department into covering for him; if Qiu Tu had not taken control of Master Qin Si''s wife and children beforehand, stopping Master Qin Si''s betrayal with just a phone call; he who needed to handle everything personally would have already been defeated by this move.


    So... the greatest danger tonight was indeed here...


    It seems it was time to meet this legendary chief.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu straightened his clothes and then, with a smile on his face, stepped into the Investigation Bureau building.


    The Investigation Bureau building at night was pitch-black, like a monstrous beast choosing its prey.


    Taking the elevator to the 9th floor, Qiu Tu followed the guidance of the detective and arrived at Jia Shu''s office in the Political Department.


    "Knock, knock, knock."


    "Come in."


    Upon Jia Shu''s consent, the detective opened the door and led Qiu Tu into the office.


    "Minister, Chief Qiu is here."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze landed on Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu, dressed in casual clothes, wore a pair of gold-rimmed glasses on his nose, his eyes narrow and smiling behind the lenses.


    If one hadn''t seen his perverse side, they might think he was just an ordinary beast in gentleman''s clothing...


    "Good day, Minister!" While inwardly sneering, Qiu Tu saluted.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu returned a forced smile and pressed his hand down, "Just us folks here, no need for all the formalities."


    His smile narrowed his elongated eyes into slits, imparting a falsely cheerful yet insincere aura.


    Qiu Tu replied seriously, "It''s the protocol, sir. I''m afraid I cannot comply."


    Jia Shu didn''t argue further, waving the detective off. Once the detective had left, he then asked with a grin, "Agent Qiu, you got here quickly."


    He glanced at his watch, "You said 18 minutes, but you only took 15 to get here."


    Qiu Tu said, "I just left the house, turned around, and drove here. Didn''t waste any time on the way."


    Jia Shu gave a half-smile and nodded, then as if out of curiosity, inquired, "Planning a gathering with friends tonight?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes."


    Jia Shu, "Which friend?"


    Qiu Tu, "Wang Tai. He just passed the Special Service Detective assessment the day before yesterday. Celebrating for him."


    Jia Shu, "Where?"


    Qiu Tu, "At a small restaurant on Nanfang Street, number 29."


    Jia Shu, "Who else will be there?"


    Qiu Tu hmm, "Some friends who grew up with me and Ah-Tai."


    Jia Shu swept his gaze over Qiu Tu twice, finding no flaws, then asked again, "Did you receive any calls on the way?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes!"


    Jia Shu, "Whose?"


    Qiu Tu, "The first call was from Ah-Tai, asking where I was. I told him I had official business and couldn''t make it."


    "The next few calls were from Master Qin Si."


    Jia Shu uttered an "Oh" with an interested look on his face, "Master Qin Si? What did you talk about?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu and said without any change in expression, "He cursed at me. Said that I took his lead and then turned around to betray him."


    "Said he would never let me off."


    "I hung up on him several times. But he kept calling back."


    "Finally, I answered the call again and cursed a few words back at him."


    "Do you need me to repeat the content of his curses at me and mine at him?"


    The smile on Jia Shu''s face became incredibly brilliant, "No need. We''re just making small talk."


    "After all, I''ve disrupted your plans for the evening, so I care about you."


    After saying this, he acted as if he was indeed just making casual conversation, reached out to open a drawer, and took out a file to toss to Qiu Tu.


    "This is your mission for tonight. We just caught a ''Female Captain'' from United Front who had infiltrated Xinjie Chamber of Commerce."


    "You''re working overtime to interrogate her. See if there are any breakthroughs."


    Qiu Tu received the file, and while looking down at it, he asked, "What methods can we use?"


    Leaning back in his chair with a half-smile, Jia Shu watched Qiu Tu and teased, "Does Chief Qiu also understand interrogation?"


    Looking up at him, Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "No."


    "But I understand killing."


    The playful look in Jia Shu''s eyes was almost spilling out as he watched Qiu Tu with interest, his narrow eyes narrowing, "No bottom line; the Political Department isn''t lacking in death quotas."


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Yes!"


    After assigning the task, Jia Shu waved his hand, "Alright, go on with your work."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then turned and left the office.


    Once Qiu Tu had left the office, silence slowly returned to Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu sat quietly in his chair for a while before reaching out to pick up an upside-down document from the desk.


    Opening the file, it clearly recorded Qiu Tu''s call history from just the past several minutes.


    Xinjie City was newly established, and the Information Department of the Investigation Bureau was not fully equipped, with limited devices, so they could only record and monitor the targeted call history.


    Thus, he only had reports of incoming and outgoing calls on Qiu Tu''s communicator after he had called Qiu Tu.


    The record clearly showed that the first call was from Ah-Tai to Qiu Tu, lasting only over ten seconds.


    Then it was Master Qin Si calling Qiu Tu, also a brief talk of a dozen seconds.


    After that, Master Qin Si made three consecutive calls that went unanswered.


    Finally, Master Qin Si made a fourth call, Qiu Tu answered, and the two talked for some twenty seconds.


    It all exactly matched what Qiu Tu had just claimed.


    "Interesting... very interesting...."


    Jia Shu''s smile became more and more splendid, his pupils turning slightly red, as if filled with the desire of encountering prey....


    ...


    Carrying the file, Qiu Tu didn''t let his guard down after leaving Jia Shu''s office but methodically carried out the task Jia Shu had given him.


    He turned and headed for the Interrogation Section.


    Approaching the door of the Interrogation Section, laughter and chattering from the lit room could be heard.


    A young girl''s curious voice, "Sister Liu, come on, tell us what''s going on between you and Section Chief Liu from next door?"


    A mature woman''s voice, "Hoho~ there''s nothing going on between us. We''re just ordinary friends."


    A young man''s voice, "No way~ I see you two exchanging glances every day, there''s got to be something."


    The girl, "Yeah, yeah, I was on duty the other day and even heard Liu Ke feeding you in the meeting room, saying it was too big and you couldn''t swallow it."


    "You little wench, you''re asking for trouble! Keep blabbing and see what happens!"


    "Giggles."


    Listening outside, Qiu Tu felt as if a certain part of his body had stiffened....


    Indeed, the office was always brimming with juicy news....


    With this thought, he coughed and knocked on the door.


    Hearing the knock, the noisy chatter inside instantly ceased.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu pushed open the door and stepped inside.


    In the afternoon, Jia Shu took Qiu Tu to the Interrogation Section and had already met everyone.


    So, as soon as they saw Qiu Tu, the three men and two women present stood up with varying expressions and called out in a jumble, "Good afternoon, Chief." "Hello Chief Qiu." "Good to see you, sir." "Sir!"


    .....


    Meanwhile, in Jia Shu''s office.


    The desk phone suddenly rang, "Ring ring ring."


    Jia Shu, sitting in deep thought, snapped back to reality, glanced at the caller ID, and immediately picked up the phone.


    "Bureau Chief, is there news?"


    Yan Chen''s deep and husky voice came from the receiver, "Hmm... Ji Chen just reported. Old Fourth Qin has run off, and his wife and children were moved away early."


    "Qin Shuman has also disappeared."


    "The detectives who were protecting her and the maid were knocked out and dumped in a warehouse. But because the fire wasn''t severe, no one was hurt."


    "The fire has now been extinguished, and after a brief inspection by Ji Chen, it was found that the ignition points were all in the remote courtyards of the Qin Family." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It seems Old Fourth Qin is leaving room for both the Qin Family and us."


    "He might have been compelled."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s analysis, Jia Shu''s gaze flickered slightly as he pondered quietly.


    After a moment, he asked, "Bureau Chief, do you have any suspects?"


    Yan Chen didn''t respond directly but instead asked in a low voice, "Has Qiu returned to the Investigation Bureau?"

 Chapter 57 - 54: The Beautiful Young Widow (7000 words, asking for Monthly Tickets)

    Jia Shu "Hmm"ed and then actively reported, "After I called him, it took him less than 15 minutes to arrive at the bureau."


    "On the way here, he answered six phone calls, five of which were from Master Qin Si," Jia Shu continued.


    Yan Chen, discernibly intrigued, "Oh?" responded, "How did he explain that?"


    Jia Shu said with a smile, "His explanation was perfect."


    "He said Master Qin Si was calling to scold him, accusing him of betraying Master Qin Si," Jia Shu explained.


    "He couldn''t stand being scolded, so he hung up, but Master Qin Si continued calling, continuing to scold."


    "Finally, he couldn''t take it anymore, and he fought back against Master Qin Si, which made Master Qin Si stop harassing him."


    "The causes and consequences of the calls were clearly explained, and it all seemed very reasonable," Jia Shu remarked.


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen rarely cracked a smile. His laughter was eerie, sending shivers down the spine.


    After his laugh, he asked, "Do you believe him?"


    By then, Jia Shu was also laughing so hard his smile nearly reached the heavens, "I believe him, my ass."


    "How can there be so many coincidences in the world, all of which just happen to occur to him?" Jia Shu questioned.


    Yan Chen "Hmm"ed, gradually reigning in his amusement, and then solemnly instructed, "Then investigate along those lines."


    "Let''s see what exactly our little friend is planning, to stir up such a fuss..."


    "Yes!" Jia Shu respectfully responded...


    After hanging up the phone, Jia Shu sat quietly in his office for a while. After organizing all the information, he picked up the desk phone and dialed a number.


    A moment later, the connection was made, and Jia Shu, with a smile, gave an order, "It''s our turn."


    Having said that, he hung up the phone, stood up and donned an overcoat, then left the office to head downstairs...


    Walking through the dark corridor, Jia Shu''s mind involuntarily revisited the scene from half an hour ago.


    At that time, Yan Chen had informed him that the Qin Family''s place had caught fire, and Master Qin Si had fled.


    His initial thought was to have the Political Department intervene immediately to investigate the matter.


    After all, for such a major incident, each minute''s delay meant the shadowy figure behind the scenes could potentially destroy more clues and evidence.


    However, Yan Chen insisted that Qin Heng should first return to the Qin Family, and only after proactively requesting support from the Investigation Bureau, would they get involved.


    He had three main reasons for this.


    First, as Qin Heng had just aligned with him, it was important to save face for Qin Heng and the Qin Family;


    Second, no one cherishes what they get easily; only what is earned through hard work is truly valued.


    Third, Xinjie City was newly established and all the powers that be were rough around the edges. Even if they were given some time to cover their tracks, with the methods of the Political Department, the truth would still be uncovered.


    Both of their perspectives were correct: one from the standpoint of solving the case, the other from a political standpoint.


    Ultimately, Jia Shu heeded Yan Chen''s arrangement.


    But now that it was time to start the investigation, Jia Shu couldn''t shake the feeling that due to this half-hour delay, something about the whole affair seemed to have shifted in an unforeseen way...


    Yet, what could happen in just half an hour?


    He''d even confined the prime suspect, Qiu Tu, within the bureau...


    With that thought, a trace of deep contemplation flashed behind Jia Shu''s spectacles.


    A moment later, he took out his communicator and made a call.


    "You don''t have to join this operation, go to the surveillance room and keep an eye on Qiu Tu for me," he instructed.


    Suddenly, a man''s voice came through the phone, "Yes, Director."


    Having finished all this, Jia Shu put on his mask of a forced smile and headed downstairs, stepping out of the Investigation Bureau building.


    By then, a T-model car had already stopped at the entrance of the Investigation Bureau building, where a few middle-aged men, evidently experienced, were already waiting.


    They were senior detectives who had followed Jia Shu and Yan Chen from the Sanctuary to Xinjie City, where they were promoted in situ to heads and deputy heads of various departments.


    This was the backbone of Yan Chen''s confidence in handling this case.


    Today, due to the unexpected blaze, they were urgently gathered together to work in collaboration once again...


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time as Jia Shu and his team embarked on their case.


    In the office of the Interrogation Section.


    Qiu Tu was also scrutinizing the detectives standing in front of him.


    The Interrogation Section is a major division of the Political Department, containing subgroups such as the interrogation team, service team, psychological analysis team, forensic pharmacist team, and the records and archives team.


    Similar to other departments of the Political Department, these groups operate independently, but when confronted with a case, members are drawn from each to form a special task force.


    The three men and two women present tonight were members of the "espionage case" task force.


    Song Qing, the young lady who had just made an off-color joke. Female, Third-Level Detective, a records officer from the records and archives team.


    Wang Xi, male, Second-Class Investigator, the young pharmacist from the forensic pharmacist team who had just spoken.


    The other two silent, burly middle-aged men were Third-Level Detectives from the service team, responsible for the security of detectives during interrogation and assistance with the process.


    As for the last one, the sultry young widow, of course, she was just the protagonist of the "Peach Blossom News"... Liu Fuping.


    She was in her early thirties, widowed, childless. When she laughed, she always preferred to look at people with a sideways glance, her slightly upturned, amorous peach blossom eyes exuding allure in every glance.


    A woman like her naturally became the source of office gossip. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a brief glance at the beautiful widow, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Sister Liu, how come you look even more beautiful tonight than this afternoon?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s teasing, Liu Fuping''s peach blossom eyes curved up, and with a roll of her eyes toward Qiu Tu, she somehow appeared even more captivating.

 Chapter 58 - 54: The Beautiful Young Widow (7000 words, asking for Monthly Tickets) _2

    Upon hearing this, the young girl Song Qing and the Pharmacist Wang Xi exchanged a glance and visibly relaxed, then both began to laugh. The tense atmosphere in the room immediately dissipated¡­


    With a single sentence, Qiu Tu had closed the gap with several of his subordinates and began to discuss the serious matters at hand.


    He slapped the documents in his hand onto the table and then inquired, "Tonight''s mission is to conduct a surprise interrogation of a female spy from the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu called out to the young girl Song Qing, "Recorder, please introduce this female spy''s situation to everyone first."


    "Yes, Chief!" Song Qing stepped forward upon hearing the order, and then began to introduce to everyone, "This female spy''s real name is Yin Caimei, the secretary and mistress of Vice President Tian of the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce."


    "According to Vice President Tian''s recollection, it was in March of last year, not long after the establishment of Xinjie City, that he encountered Yin Caimei."


    "At that time, Vice President Tian had gone to the black market on Xiafang Street privately to investigate the potion business, when he coincidentally met Yin Caimei."


    "Vice President Tian said that Yin Caimei was wearing a green military coat at the time, dirty and squatting in an alley, looking like a beggar."


    "And upon seeing Vice President Tian, she suddenly sprang out from the corner, flung her military coat open, and asked Vice President Tian if he needed a communicator, claiming they were all good stuff from the Sanctuary."


    "Vice President Tian was in the business of selling communicators himself. Hearing her say that, he became somewhat curious. So, he took a closer look at the communicators she had strapped all over her."


    As Song Qing reached this point, a suppressed laughter rose in the office.


    Interrupted, Song Qing looked at Qiu Tu with a wronged expression.


    Qiu Tu, with a smile on his face, said, "Go on, continue."


    After glaring at the others, Song Qing continued, "Vice President Tian said after examining them for a while, he confirmed that these devices were fakes."


    "But since it''s rare to meet a ''colleague,'' he asked her one more question, ''Are these things real?''" S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To which, who would have thought, Yin Caimei directly pulled out a wanted notice from the Sanctuary to prove that she really did steal the communicators from the Sanctuary. Well... of course, this wanted notice was also fake."


    "Perhaps finding the girl in front of him amusing, Vice President Tian became interested in Yin Caimei and extended an olive branch to her."


    "He said that he was in the communication business himself and now needed an assistant, asking her if she was willing to help him."


    "At first, Yin Caimei was a bit skeptical, wondering if she had encountered a true ''colleague.''"


    "But after seeing Vice President Tian''s luxury car, she believed him."


    "And just like that, Yin Caimei joined Vice President Tian''s company as a secretary. Afterwards, their relationship grew closer. By the end of last year, Yin Caimei naturally became Vice President Tian''s mistress."


    "However, since Yin Caimei joined Vice President Tian''s communications company, strange things started happening: some of Xinjie City''s logistics companies would consistently be robbed by the Anti-government Armed Forces after leaving Xinjie City."


    "The frequency was more than three times higher than other cities'' similar companies. Soon, these companies faced enormous losses."


    "Until two months ago, the Interrogation Section, while investigating a case, incidentally found an unidentified bugging chip inside a suspect''s communicator."


    "Following this lead, the Interrogation Section discovered more businessmen and officials who had been bugged."


    "Using these clues, the Interrogation Section narrowed down the suspects to within Vice President Tian''s company. Finally, they caught Yin Caimei, the spy from the Anti-government organization."


    At this point, Song Qing paused and scanned the other agents. Then she added, "Additionally, it needs to be mentioned that Vice President Tian has a special status."


    "Due to his significant assistance during the establishment of Xinjie City and his substantial influence on the entire business environment of Xinjie, the Sanctuary awarded him the ''Peak Third-Level Medal'' last December."


    "As a result, not only can he attend the Municipal Committee and participate in policy discussions, but he also has a third-level exemption right: unless Yan Chen, the Bureau Chief, authorizes it in writing and reports it to the Sanctuary, our Political Department cannot initiate an investigation against him."


    "Moreover, considering his close relations with various members of the Municipal Committee, heads of government departments, and our cooperation with the Information Inquiry Office, we need to be cautious when handling this case."


    Having said this, Song Qing nodded slightly towards Qiu Tu to indicate she had finished her report.


    Qiu Tu listened and actually found the case quite interesting. However... no matter how interesting, it wasn''t of much concern to him.


    He had a clear understanding of his role tonight: he wasn''t really here to interrogate or investigate.


    His task, or rather Jia Shu''s directive for tonight, was simple: stay within the confines of the Investigation Bureau, and go nowhere else!


    Therefore, all he needed to do was stay in the Investigation Bureau. Whether the case was solved or not was irrelevant.


    Of course... he would still need to do the work on the surface.


    With that in mind, he looked around the office and then said, "I believe everyone has understood the case details that Song Qing just mentioned."


    "This is not a small case; it likely involves a high-profile figure who has received a ''Peace Medal.'' So, everyone should be on their toes and take care not to be negligent," he continued.


    After finishing, he clapped his hands and said, "Alright, let''s start fetching the suspects and prepare for interrogation!"


    "Yes!" The detectives present responded in unison...


    .....


    Being seasoned operatives in the Interrogation Section, they knew the following interrogation procedure. So, without any instruction from Qiu Tu, they went about their tasks methodically.


    Song Qing and two detectives from the duty team went to escort the prisoners with the authorization document, whereas Liu Fuping and Wang Xi followed Qiu Tu to the interrogation room for early setup.


    Having a calm demeanor meant Qiu Tu behaved naturally and relaxedly.


    When he got to the interrogation room, he just watched Wang Xi and Liu Fuping tinker with the equipment; he even casually glanced over Liu Fuping''s peach-like buttocks a few times.


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s wandering gaze, the beautiful and young Liu Fuping didn''t forget to throw a coquettish glare back at him while retrieving instruments of punishment.


    But possibly because of her fully ripened age, her glare had no trace of intimidation; it even added layers of charm to her.


    Therefore, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face became even thicker.


    While he was exchanging flirtatious looks with his subordinate, suddenly, "buzz buzz buzz..." the communicator in Qiu Tu''s left pocket started to vibrate gently.


    Feeling the vibration in his left pocket, Qiu Tu was briefly startled, then he no longer acted nonchalantly but regained his alertness and composure.


    Because... the communicator on the left was Ah-Tai''s.


    He covertly slipped his hand into his pocket and hung up the call.


    Then he glanced at Wang Xi and Liu Fuping, who were busy preparing potions and tools for the interrogation.


    The two of them obviously hadn''t heard the vibration of the communicator and were still moving things around.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu naturally picked up the communicator, glanced at it, and saw that the caller was... Lin Zuo''s number.


    Qiu Tu''s mind stirred, silently calculating the time.


    If he hadn''t miscalculated, the Security Department should have already cleared all traces of tonight''s events by now.


    And Lin Zuo should have already met with Master Qin Si and conducted a simple questioning.


    So, Lin Zuo calling now could only mean one thing: he had realized he had been deceived, that Master Qin Si had no evidence of Yan Chen colluding with the United Front whatsoever...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu made up his mind.


    ''Hmm, it seems that it''s time to wrap up my final move for tonight...''


    ---

 Chapter 59 - 55: Using Cataclysmic Ability (7000 words, seeking follow-up readership)

    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took the communicator and said to Liu Fuping and Wang Xi, "You guys get ready, I''m going to make a call."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping responded with a sweet voice, "Yes, Commander."


    Wang Xi also stood up straight and respectfully replied, "Understood, Section Chief."


    After greeting the two, Qiu Tu took the communicator and went to the end of the corridor.


    Instead of redialing immediately, he... first used his "Cataclysmic ability."


    Ever since he left the Interrogation Section''s office, Qiu Tu felt like someone was watching him.


    As a newly awakened Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu was sure his Spiritual Perception couldn''t be wrong.


    So he surreptitiously checked his surroundings to ensure no one was there; then, he focused his attention on the surveillance cameras scattered throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    As one of the three major institutions of power in Xinjie City, the Investigation Bureau was equipped with complete security measures and anti-theft systems. This included several surveillance cameras in each floor''s corridor.


    Ordinarily, no one would watch these cameras; they were just for show.


    But today''s unusual feeling led Qiu Tu to speculate: Could someone be observing him through the surveillance?


    This suspicion peaked while he was exchanging flirtatious glances with Liu Fuping.


    Because he noticed that, at that time, that sense of being "watched" disappeared for a moment. Qiu Tu guessed that the watcher had become bored and either had a momentary distraction or shifted their gaze away.


    And now, as he was about to make a phone call, that feeling of scrutiny returned. Clearly, the watcher had also noticed Qiu Tu''s "situation."


    Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if the Investigation Bureau''s cameras had audio capabilities, so he had to... eliminate all possibilities as much as he could.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu tried to use his "Cataclysmic ability" for the first time.


    There was no difficulty, no unfamiliarity; it was as if it was an inborn instinct. As the notion surged in his heart, the Cataclysmic ability "Reshape Order" immediately took effect. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu''s eyes turned deep blue once again, the misty gray fog spread, and the surrounding environment began to fade away...


    He found himself standing in a narrow space of only four square meters.


    He felt like he could be the omnipotent god in this space, acting at will: nobody could refuse him, and nobody could resist him...


    It was the intoxicating feeling of standing at the pinnacle of power, in command of everything!


    ''Is this... my Cataclysmic ability?''


    Qiu Tu silently marveled to himself, then forced himself to calm down and set the rules for this "Order Space" for the next 24 hours.


    "When I enter this space, all people, machines, and Treasures outside will only see, hear, and record me continuously dialing the phone without getting through... "


    As the rule was established, the gray mist dispersed, the physical world returned, and everything seemed no different from just a moment ago. But... it was entirely different.


    Qiu Tu turned and looked back, and Liu Fuping was also looking his way.


    Their gazes met, but the beautiful matron, as if she hadn''t seen Qiu Tu at all, casually brushed her hair and turned her head away.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew the rule he had set was in effect.


    He didn''t delay; rather, he immediately pulled out two communicators, first using Ah-Tai''s communicator to return a call to Lin Zuo.


    Then, he used his own communicator to dial Ah-Tai''s communicator.


    Of course... since Ah-Tai''s communicator was in the process of making a call, it couldn''t go through...


    Having done all this, the call from Lin Zuo came through.


    He was clearly waiting for Qiu Tu''s call, so as soon as it rang, he picked it up.


    Upon picking up, Lin Zuo''s chilly voice came through, "Qiu Tu. You''re messing with the Security Department."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knew Lin Zuo had indeed inquired with Master Qin Si.


    But he couldn''t admit it, so he laughed and said, "What are you talking about, Section Chief Lin? You''re from the Security Department. If you gave me eight guts, I still wouldn''t dare to toy with you guys."


    Lin Zuo chuckled twice and said, "Is that so?"


    "Then why does Master Qin Si say he doesn''t know anything about Yan Chen colluding with the Anti-government Armed Forces?"


    "Furthermore, he said you also deceived him. You told him, we were investigating the Qin Family''s collusion with the Anti-government Armed Forces!"


    "How do you explain that?"


    Feigning surprise, Qiu Tu said, "Ah? Is that so?"


    "Impossible!"


    "He personally told me yesterday that he had evidence against Yan Chen!"


    After this, Qiu Tu hesitated for two seconds before pretending to come to a realization, "Could it be that he got scared and changed his mind?"


    "Section Chief Lin, let me tell you, that old man started to get cold feet on his way to you. He called me several times, with threats and attempts to ingratiate himself, all because he no longer wanted to report on Yan Chen. But after I threatened him with his wife and children, he finally went to you."


    "I reckon he deliberately lied to you because he''s afraid of offending Yan Chen."


    "Qiu Tu, you motherf@#%!@"


    "Son of a b@#!*#!"


    "You''re really not a f@#!#!"


    And just as Qiu Tu was pinning all the blame on Master Qin Si... from the communicators came a barrage of expletives fragrant with Master Qin Si''s anger.


    Obviously... possibly worried that Qiu Tu could hoodwink them, Lin Zuo, while making the call, had switched on the speakerphone. Qiu Tu''s attempt to frame Master Qin Si was heard by Master Qin Si himself, word for word.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu touched his nose, feeling that this was the most embarrassing situation he had encountered since crossing over to this time.


    It wasn''t really his fault. Who would have expected the normally rule-abiding Lin Zuo to breach confidentiality protocols and let an outsider listen to a conversation between two secret departments?


    However... fortunately, he had a Plan B.


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu also dropped his joking demeanor and said seriously to Lin Zuo, "Section Chief Lin, what you are doing is a violation of the confidentiality regulations."


    "I have the right to report your dereliction of duty to the military after this case is over."


    Lin Zuo was not intimidated by Qiu Tu; he said coolly, "That''s assuming you get past this current hurdle."


    "Qiu Tu, I''m giving you one last chance to explain. If your explanation still doesn''t satisfy me, then I will terminate our cooperation and report your actions to City Hall and the Investigation Bureau."


    "Let them deal with you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, displaying complete indifference as if being sliced to ribbons, "You won''t do that. If you report me, City Hall and the Investigation Bureau will find out that you''re secretly investigating Yan Chen."


    "Conducting a private investigation of a high-ranking official without evidence¡ªthat''s a major scandal. Not to mention your own department, even General Ye might face reprimands from the Sanctuary."


    "You!" Lin Zuo was clearly infuriated by Qiu Tu''s defiant attitude.


    Just as he was about to argue with Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu said, "Alright, Section Chief Lin, I''ll stop teasing you. I do have some progress to report. Now, give the phone to Qin Shuman; I need to speak with her directly."


    Qin Shuman''s real identity was Section Chief of the Security Department''s investigation division, and Lin Zuo, as her confidant, of course knew her position.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had also had in-depth exchanges as comrades-in-arms. Therefore, he understood her all too well.


    Among the four people on either end of the phone, only Master Qin Si was in the dark about Qin Shuman''s identity.


    So he looked bewilderedly at Qin Shuman, who was slowly standing up, a whole host of question marks above his head:


    Wait a minute? Qin Shuman taking a call? What does that mean?


    Isn''t she just Yan Chen''s mistress, Qiu Tu''s fling?


    Why does Qiu Tu need to speak directly with her?


    Before he could figure it out, Qin Shuman casually walked over, reaching out for the communicator. Seeing this, Lin Zuo also proactively handed the communicator to Qin Shuman.


    Seeing this scene, Master Qin Si was even more confused:


    Wait a minute? Qin Shuman taking a call, and this Security Department''s Section Chief Lin has no objections?


    And... why does he seem so respectful towards Qin Shuman?


    Just what is Qin Shuman''s real identity?


    With these thoughts, Master Qin Si''s gaze couldn''t help but drift towards Qin Shuman''s shoulder wrapped in bandages, still marked with spots of blood...


    In that instant, only one thought crossed his mind: Oh shit! Has Qiu Tu screwed me over again?!


    Who the hell did I actually stab?!


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman had also started talking to Qiu Tu while Master Qin Si was still in shock.


    First, she turned off the loudspeaker, then with a charming smile and a gentle voice tinged with a sting, she said, "Chief Qiu really is ruthless, huh~~"


    "Here I am, being so sincere to you, yet not only do you play our Security Department for fools, you also let me get stabbed for nothing~~"


    Master Qin Si''s face went deathly pale.


    And at that moment, on the other side of the communicator, Qiu Tu, also laughing, said, "Shuman, you have to understand me, everything I''ve done has been for you."


    "Oh? Really?" Qin Shuman obviously didn''t believe him, and laughed as she asked, "Can Chief Qiu really just shift the blame to someone else like that?"


    Qiu Tu, keeping a grip on the rhythm of the conversation, timely threw out his bait, "I''m not shifting blame, everything I said is true."


    "I''m currently under Jia Shu''s surveillance and don''t have time to explain in detail."


    "But I hope you can believe me, all of this is to find a cure for your condition. And fortunately, I really did find one..."


    ---

 Chapter 60 - 56: The Deal with Qin Shuman (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s pupils contracted sharply, and her body trembled slightly.


    Because¡­ Qiu Tu had perfectly seized her vulnerability.


    As a Cataclysmic, Qin Shuman was desperate to resolve her current situation.


    This was not only because the body she was in now was too special, too sensitive, too dangerous, but also because¡­ the operational rules of Cataclysmic ability.


    All Cataclysmic abilities were supported by a "price". The stronger the ability, the higher the price.


    Over a short period, the "price" could still be "paid" with "spiritual power".


    But once the time was too long, if the spiritual power was not enough to pay, or it could not be paid with spiritual power, unimaginably dreadful things would happen¡­


    And now, Qin Shuman had been using the possession ability for four days, pushing the limits of her ability. She really could not imagine the horrors that would happen in a few more days¡­


    By then, even if she returned to her own body, it might already be too late.


    That''s why she had seduced and given herself to Qiu Tu, why she had risked revealing her identity to him, why, without knowing the plan, she had unhesitatingly followed Qiu Tu''s arrangements, leaving the Qin Family with Master Qin Si.


    After all, the "Mysterious person" who had "possessed" the original "Qiu Tu" was the only lifeline she could grasp.


    In fact, Qiu Tu did manage to do just that. Although he had used Master Qin Si and the Security Department, he did successfully rescue Qin Shuman from a precarious situation.


    The only thing Qin Shuman didn''t expect was that although she thought Qiu Tu was so kind to her because he truly cared, in reality, Qiu Tu was someone just like her: outwardly loving and devoted, but inwardly exceedingly rational.


    The knife from Master Qin Si was a warning to Master Qin Si, as well as to her: no matter how deeply involved, interests remain separate¡­


    In troubled times, there is no room for love-struck foolishness...


    Thus, when faced with another lure cast by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman was not immediately overcome with confusion.


    Knowing that Qiu Tu excelled at manipulating people''s hearts, she quickly analyzed the truthfulness of Qiu Tu''s lure, the benefits he wanted to exchange, and weighed the pros and cons...


    After a moment, she had her answer. She waved her hand toward Lin Zuo.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo nodded, then took Master Qin Si to the next room and closed the door.


    Once the room was empty, Qin Shuman walked to the window, lowered her voice, and calmly stated her price, "Tonight''s operation was independently completed by our Security Department Investigation Department. It has nothing to do with you."


    "The cause of the matter is that we''ve been investigating the Qin Family''s collusion with the Anti-government Armed Forces, so we made contact with Master Qin Si."


    "This time, the Qin Family wanted to push Master Qin Si to be the scapegoat. In desperation, he took a wild risk, set fire to the Qin Family, and killed Qin Shuman. Afterward, he was taken away by our Security Department for protection."


    "This will be the official record and archives. No matter who inquires, it will remain as such." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Moreover, I assure you that even if the Political Department sends a letter demanding people, we will not hand over Master Qin Si and his family."


    "Or¡­ we won''t hand over anyone alive."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu laughed.


    He knew that Qin Shuman''s asking price was to take the entire blame and perhaps face an internal disciplinary action, all to ensure her safety.


    But he still shook his head, "Not enough."


    Qin Shuman wasn''t surprised; she pondered for two seconds, then raised the stakes again, "I recall you have several good friends."


    "I''ve observed them over the past few days and found that they have potential."


    "I can recommend two of them to join the military. And I guarantee one of them will be promoted to Lieutenant within a year."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment.


    Lieutenant, equivalent to a First Level Detective, usually holds the position of a platoon leader in the military department, commanding about 30 soldiers. It''s practically the limit of promotion for ordinary people.


    The conditions offered by Qin Shuman were more than generous.


    But Qiu Tu still shook his head, "Not enough."


    Qin Shuman was a bit exasperated and was about to retort when this time Qiu Tu took the initiative and said, "I would also like some information about Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic abilities."


    Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment and finally exhaled two words slowly, "Deal."


    After the deal was done, the atmosphere became much more amiable.


    Qin Shuman visibly relaxed, but she didn''t forget to warn Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, I have already shown enough sincerity; if you dare to deceive me, then don''t blame me for being unkind."


    "At that time, I''ll get even for the black pot I''m carrying today, as well as for this stab wound on my body."


    Qiu Tu laughed audibly and then teased, "They say ''For one day as husband and wife, a hundred days of kindness''."


    "Does Miss Shuman really have the heart to do me harm?"


    Qiu Tu emphasized the word "day", instantly adding a hint of flirtation to the conversation.


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman''s voice became seductive.


    With a voice so soft it could make a man''s body go numb, she said, "Chief Qiu had the heart to stab me~~ how could I possibly not have the heart to stab you~"


    "Rest assured~~ I''m not as heartless as you. When it''s time to stab you, I''ll definitely choose a pretty knife~~ A pink one, does Chief Qiu like that~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu laughed aloud and asked in a relaxed tone, "Then Miss Shuman, shall we meet tomorrow at 11 pm at the Milan Grand Hotel?"


    Qiu Tu''s laughter seemed to infect Qin Shuman; the corners of her mouth involuntarily lifted slightly, and then she gave a light hum from her nose.


    The two exchanged a few more words offhandedly, then ended the communication.

 Chapter 61 - 56: The Deal with Qin Shuman (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After putting down the communicator, Qin Shuman smiled softly and stood quietly for a while before her gaze unintentionally swept toward the window.


    Perhaps because the room was a bit dim, the window glass reflected the light, and a stunning woman with a touch of shyness was clearly mirrored on it.


    Seeing her own image, Qin Shuman was visibly stunned for a moment.


    Then she quickly suppressed the expression on her face, muttering to herself in her heart, ''Why on earth am I smiling? What''s there to smile about after a verbal confrontation with that bad man?''


    ''It must be the residual instincts of this body....''


    Having said that, she turned around to leave the room. Perhaps because she moved her shoulder where the knife wound was, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but tremble.


    She then clutched the knife wound on her shoulder, gritting her teeth, and whispered softly, "What a damn man."


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time, inside the Investigation Bureau building.


    Qiu Tu also hung up the phone.


    Compared with Lin Zuo, Qin Shuman and he were in the same boat¡ªpartners with aligned interests, standing or falling together.


    So since Qin Shuman had agreed to take the blame for him, he believed she would handle the matter well.


    And with the Security Department serving as the scapegoat, the lies Qiu Tu had been weaving since his arrival were now changing from ''false'' to ''true.''


    Even if Jia Shu and Yan Chen were cunning and felt something was amiss, they could not refute one fact: the Security Department indeed went down.


    As a result, all of Qiu Tu''s lies from the past few days were now ''confirmed.''


    Including his conjectures about Qin Shuman''s identity, his suspicions about the Qin Family, and his warnings to Yan Chen.


    Following this logic to reassess the whole situation revealed something interesting: it appeared Qiu Tu truly had been ''wronged.''


    And the suspects of Yan Chen and Jia Shu became the culprits behind the Investigation Bureau''s failure this time....


    This was Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal for the entire plan tonight. To thoroughly clear his own name of ''wrongful accusations'' and get rid of all the unstable elements around him.


    Even if Yan Chen and Jia Shu still had their doubts afterward... it was already too late, Qin Shuman was ''dead,'' Master Qin Si fled, and the archives of the Security Department were documented. They had no evidence or reason to continue their questioning.


    And the ''truth'' of the entire event finally became irrevocable.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu, who had finally executed the entire plan, took a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief in his heart.


    Regardless, the crisis was resolved, Qin Shuman was free, and he himself had awakened his Cataclysmic ability.


    Only Yan Chen, Jia Shu, the Qin Family, and Master Qin Si''s painful night were achieved.


    Next, as long as he didn''t slip up and slowly dealt with Yan Chen and the others...


    Hmm... and I need to investigate what exactly happened on the day I traversed, between the original ''Qiu Tu'' and the original ''Qin Shuman.''...


    For some reason, every time he thought about that day, Qiu Tu always felt vaguely uneasy...


    Contemplating silently for a while, Qiu Tu took several deep breaths to compose himself, then got ready to ''return to reality.''


    He packed away the two communicators and then deactivated his Cataclysmic ability.


    With the deactivation of ''Reshape Order,'' matter restructured, lines refilled, and everything around him returned to normal.


    The next second, Qiu Tu felt a bit dizzy in his head. It was a sensation much like after using his Spiritual Vision for half an hour.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat surprised.


    ''It''s only been five or six minutes, right? Why does it feel like it drains so much energy?''


    ''Does my Cataclysmic ability consume a lot of spiritual power?''


    ''If I were to maintain it for 24 hours, how much spiritual power would it use up?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu steadied his body and kept his expression in check before discreetly returning to the interrogation room...


    .....


    At this moment, in the interrogation room, the female spy had already been brought in and was shackled to a chair. Liu Fuping, Song Qing, and Wang Xi were discussing the upcoming interrogation process in whispers on the side.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, they promptly saluted and greeted him. Qiu Tu waved his hand, gesturing for them to continue.


    As a mascot, Qiu Tu knew his role, so he observed and learned throughout the entire interrogation without giving unsolicited advice like an amateur.


    And after a whole night of interrogation, Qiu Tu was left with two impressions.


    The first was... this female spy was actually a fraud?


    Moreover, her deceit was outrageously excessive! She really took men for fools.


    The second was that Liu Fuping, that beautiful young wife, seemed fiery, but when she made her move, she was really ruthless.


    Watching her manicured hands break the female spy''s fingers one by one, Qiu Tu felt his scalp tingle.


    Most importantly, even when she was torturing someone, her peach blossom eyes were full of affection, and her lips still held a smile.


    Now, Qiu Tu even had a bit of admiration for Section Chief Liu next door: Could it really not leave any psychological scars?


    .....


    Throughout history, there have been few who could withstand endless torture and interrogation.


    So, there were not many surprises in the whole interrogation.


    The female spy had confessed almost all the intelligence the Interrogation Section wanted to know.


    For example, her method of contact with the United Front, the process and details of how she secretly installed listening devices, her codename, her superiors, and so on....


    And according to her confession, her infiltration into Vice President Tian''s side was purely accidental. She was originally just an ordinary scout, who unexpectedly hooked up with Vice President Tian.


    This also led to her being a free agent, without accomplices by her side.


    Qiu Tu had his reservations about the intelligence gained through this method of interrogation.


    But he was just an overseer, so he didn''t interfere much.


    Thus, by the time the entire interrogation was over, daylight was already breaking.


    After everyone had packed up the interrogation scene, they stretched and walked out. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu was leading the way, with Liu Fuping following by his side.


    After last night''s interrogation, Qiu Tu dared not have any thoughts about the beautiful young wife in front of him, but... he might not be interested, yet this beautiful young wife took the initiative to strike up a conversation with him.


    "Commander, you must be tired after a whole night of interrogation, right?"


    Qiu Tu yawned, "It''s okay. Just a bit sleepy. After all, most of the work was done by Sister Liu. If anyone should be tired, it''s you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping said lazily, "I am indeed a bit tired. I just want to go home, take a bath, and have a good sleep."


    As she spoke, she stretched, and her fully developed curves were just perfectly outlined in front of Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up with roguish light, and suddenly, he wasn''t sleepy anymore...


    Not sure if she noticed Qiu Tu''s gaze, Liu Fuping dropped her arms, threw him a coquettish look, and boldly invited, "My place is nearby, do you want to come over and sleep for a bit, Commander?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s heart skipped a beat, feeling a familiar sense of being lured into a trap.


    His mind quickly cooled down, but he feigned surprise and said, "Go to your place to sleep? Sister Liu, if you put it that way, my mind might wander. Let''s go, let''s go! I can''t wait any longer!"


    "Ho ho ho ho~~~", Liu Fuping laughed loudly at Qiu Tu''s blatant teasing, playfully hitting him, while her soft waist pressed against Qiu Tu''s body.


    Qiu Tu laughed and enjoyed the flirtation, while his mind grew even more calm...


    The few agents from the Interrogation Section behind them glanced at each other.


    Pharmacist Wang Xi gestured towards the backs of the two with a jerk of his mouth and winked at the young girl Song Qing.


    Song Qing rolled her eyes and mouthed an appraisal: adulterer and seductress....


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    In the Information Department''s Surveillance Room at the Investigation Bureau.


    A shadow also received a phone call.


    After picking up, the voice of Jia Shu came through, asking, "How is it? Any abnormalities?"


    -----

 Chapter 62 - 57 Golden Finger Refresh +1 (7k Seeking Follow-up Reads!)

    Hearing Jia Shu''s question, the shadow replied softly, "Everything is normal."


    On the other end of the communicator, Jia Shu "hmm" in acknowledgment but remained silent for a long time, without revealing his signature laughter.


    Sensing something unusual about Jia Shu, the shadow asked, "What''s wrong? Did the investigation last night not go smoothly?"


    Jia Shu came back to his senses upon hearing this and said with a chuckle, "It went very smoothly. It''s just... the outcome was a bit unexpected...."


    ....


    At 10 a.m., in Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in the City Center Garden.


    That dimly lit study.


    The desk lamp cast a dull yellow glow, the whole room was haze-filled, wisps of smoke entwining in the air, constantly rising and spreading over time.


    Yan Chen was half-shrouded in darkness, the other half... with a hand holding a cigarette, he smoked and squinted, deep in thought.


    Jia Shu stood in front of him without saying a word.


    The room was immersed in an eerie silence.


    Time passed in this way, perhaps a minute, or perhaps fifteen minutes had elapsed.


    When only the cigarette butt remained in Yan Chen''s hand, he stubbed it out in the ashtray and then hoarsely asked, "So... have we been misunderstanding Qiu Tu this whole time?"


    Jia Shu wasn''t smiling anymore. His face was devoid of any expression, and the gold-framed glasses added to his severity.


    He shook his head, "I didn''t say that."


    "But... there certainly is that possibility."


    Having said that, he explained, "Last night, we started our search with Old Fourth Qin and his wife and child. It took us to many places."


    "But the more we searched, the less it made sense."


    "When we backtracked and started over, we realized that a lot of the key clues and information had been erased."


    "After hours of searching, we could only confirm that Old Fourth Qin vanished from the Milan Grand Hotel, and we had almost no other leads."


    Speaking to this point, Jia Shu adjusted his glasses and said earnestly, "This irrational phenomenon, however, has pointed us in a new direction."


    "The few of us are the elite from the Sanctuary, with professional detective training. Which forces in Xinjie City could possibly escape our sight, who are more professional than us?"


    "The military...?" Yan Chen narrowed his eyes slightly and quietly uttered two words.


    But in a moment, he shook his head and corrected himself, "Not just the military. It should be the Security Department of the military."


    Jia Shu nodded in agreement, "Yes."


    "Most of Xinjie City''s other forces are country bumpkins; even the best among them are only at an amateur level."


    "They couldn''t possibly erase all traces and sever all clues within a short 30 minutes, leaving us with no leads to follow."


    "This level of professional technique could only be accessed by mid-level management from the Sanctuary. That means people from the Investigation Bureau, the military, and City Hall."


    "Although City Hall is the highest authority and has the most middle management, most of them are civil servants and do not possess such professional means."


    "And the people from our Investigation Bureau were all summoned by me last night; they didn''t have time to commit the act."


    "So it can only be the military, or rather, the Security Department of the military that has this capability."


    At this point, Jia Shu paused, then continued, "We''ve been rivals with the Security Department for many years and are familiar with each other''s tactics. So once we zeroed in on the target and investigated in this direction, we quickly found some subtle traces."


    "So, it''s confirmed that the mastermind behind last night''s actions was indeed the Security Department."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression changed unpredictably.


    He lit another cigarette and slowly said,


    "Last night, Master Qin Si set the Qin Family estate on fire and took Qin Shuman away. Shortly afterward, the Security Department stepped in to cover their tracks."


    "That indicates Master Qin Si and Qin Shuman are with the Security Department...."


    "And Qiu Tu initially said he suspected something was off with Qin Shuman, suspecting her of having another identity."


    "So, he... didn''t lie to me?"


    By the end, Yan Chen''s brow was deeply furrowed.


    Jia Shu didn''t know what to say either. He fell silent for a moment before adding, "Last night, Old Fourth Qin deliberately held back, refraining from burning the main Qin residence and from killing the agents guarding Qin Shuman, indicating he was being coerced."


    "So he''s more likely not the mastermind behind the whole plan, but rather just an executor."


    "So..."


    Yan Chen''s eyes narrowed further, "So, is it likely that the mastermind of this plan is Qin Shuman?"


    "Does this further confirm Qin Shuman''s identity?"


    At this, Yan Chen paused, "However, Qiu Tu still got Qin Shuman''s identity wrong. She is not with the Municipal Committee as he had guessed, but with the military."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly and continued, "And... if Qin Shuman really is from the Security Department."


    "Then it makes even more sense that she could offer something like the Aurora Stone as an awakening material to bribe Qiu Tu."


    Yan Chen nodded and replied in a low voice,


    "Indeed... the Security Department is the one responsible for handling extraordinary affairs."


    Just as Qiu Tu had analyzed and predicted before, Yan Chen and Jia Shu had never trusted him, and thus they had never believed that Qin Shuman was a spy either.


    But when the Security Department got involved and Qin Shuman''s identity as a spy was confirmed, all of the logic the two had previously held was overturned.


    This shock made them inherently start analyzing the situation from Qiu Tu''s perspective.


    As a result, the more they analyzed, the more they felt Qiu Tu was wronged and that Qin Shuman was the root cause of everything.


    This would also make them overlook many flaws and details in Qiu Tu''s lies¡ªor even if they noticed them, they would find reasons to gloss them over.


    So... the room once again fell into silence for a time.


    Now that the situation was "clear", the two realized they had reached an impasse.


    They initially didn''t trust Qiu Tu and had not controlled Qin Shuman immediately.


    Now that Qin Shuman had escaped, they no longer had any pretext to confront the military about it.


    After all, as long as there was no person caught red-handed, the military would not acknowledge Qin Shuman''s identity, and there were too many reasons they could use to whitewash the whole affair.


    For instance, Qin Shuman was just an ordinary person, and Yan Chen had irritated Master Qin Si, so in his escape, Qin Si could''ve abduct Qin Shuman, made Yan Chen a cuckold, and then killed her.


    Then, the Investigation Bureau would not only fail to achieve anything good but would also be embroiled in an even bigger scandal.


    "One wrong move in the game..."


    Yan Chen silently sighed and then looked toward Jia Shu, asking, "What do you think?"


    By then, Jia Shu had gradually returned to his state of strategic command. His eyes behind the glasses were flickering with a cold light,


    "I feel... there are still many suspicious points in the whole matter. Qiu Tu''s facts are too coincidental, and some anomalies on his person are indeed difficult to..."


    Yan Chen raised his hand to interrupt him, saying a bit wearily, "Stop focusing on Qiu Tu for now."


    "No matter how many doubts he has. His judgment of the whole matter is correct. Indeed, someone is causing trouble by my side."


    "He is all merits and no demerits. It''s us who did not trust him."


    Yan Chen said, "What I''m asking is, how should we deal with the Security Department matter?"


    After crushing a cigarette butt in the ashtray, he regained the demeanor of one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, and said deeply, "I can''t just swallow this loss."


    Jia Shu''s face wore a smile, and he said with a semblance of jest, "I have two suggestions."


    "One is... we also have our moles in the military, in the Security Department." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let them investigate who is secretly probing you. Is it General Ye? Director Dai? Or some department head who''s out of his place!"


    "After that, we deal with it specifically."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly and asked in a low tone, "And the second one?"


    Jia Shu''s smile grew even brighter, "The second is... didn''t Qiu Tu say that Qin Shuman had approached him?"


    "Let''s go with the flow and simply turn him into a double agent. Let him continue to interface with the Security Department."


    "We could let him feed the Security Department some non-critical intelligence to gain their trust."


    "As for the task we give him, it''s simple, just one, that is to find out the other moles the Security Department has by my side, inside our Investigation Bureau..."


    "This task can most simply discern his allegiance and also solve problems for you..."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen''s eyes flickered slightly, and finally, he nodded slowly...


    ....


    After teasing Liu Fuping and having a bit of fun, Qiu Tu returned alone to the Interrogation Section.


    As the Deputy Staff Officer, he had a leadership position, but not a private office.


    Therefore, he could only find a random meeting room to catch up on sleep.


    He had exhausted a lot of brainpower, energy, and physical strength the previous night. Using "Spiritual Vision" and his "Cataclysmic ability" had worn out his spirit. He desperately needed some sleep now.


    So he went to sleep deeply, and in his dreams, Qiu Tu vaguely sensed someone entering the meeting room.


    Then they covered him with a coat and left...


    He felt the person was familiar, but perhaps too tired, he couldn''t recall who it was...


    And like that, he slept until 2 pm, when Qiu Tu slowly awoke from his sleep.


    He stretched, feeling revitalized!


    But just then.


    Suddenly, a few lines of prompts appeared before him.


    [Acquired Cataclysmic ability, became a Cataclysmic. Golden Finger position +1, the number of refreshes +1.]


    [Current 2 Golden Finger positions, 1 fixed position, one random position. Refreshing frequency once per month.]

 Chapter 63 - 58: Acquiring a New Golden Finger

    Seeing the prompt before his eyes, Qiu Tu, who had been in a bit of a daze, suddenly tensed and became fully alert!


    He sat up straight and looked around to make sure no one else was in the conference room before carefully examining the changes to his Golden Finger.


    On the first day of his transmigration, Qiu Tu had discovered that his Golden Finger was different from that of other transmigrators. While others had only one Golden Finger, his could be refreshed and fixed.


    However, since the conditions had not been met at the time, he had not known how to trigger these two functions.


    Now, with the prompt, Qiu Tu also had a moment of realization: It seemed that his Golden Finger evolved with the enhancement of his Supernatural Power, didn''t it?


    So, would it mean that he just needed to continue improving his strength to gain more Golden Finger slots and more refresh opportunities?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also tried to check his Golden Finger''s brand-new panel.


    [Golden Finger Slot: 1/2, Refresh Opportunities: 1 (once per month)]


    "Golden Finger Name": Crisis Intuition (Unfixed, refreshable)


    "Golden Finger Type": Trigger type


    "Golden Finger Effect": When facing a major crisis, Crisis Intuition will be triggered and provide the corresponding Crisis Warning. If the crisis is successfully overcome, you can obtain rewards related to the crisis.


    "Golden Finger Slot 2": Vacant (refreshable) S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After reviewing the entire Golden Finger panel, Qiu Tu had a more comprehensive understanding of his Golden Finger.


    After becoming a Cataclysmic, he would have two Golden Fingers. Moreover, he also had the opportunity to refresh a Golden Finger once a month.


    If he felt that a certain Golden Finger was not useful, or he didn''t need it temporarily, he could refresh it.


    And if he felt that he would need a certain Golden Finger in the future, he could temporarily fix it and make it a regularly used Golden Finger.


    ''Indeed powerful....''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not waste any more time, but prepared to refresh his second Golden Finger.


    He first fixed [Crisis Intuition], then lightly tapped to refresh.


    Without any special effects or sound, the next second, the panel for his second Golden Finger changed.


    "Golden Finger Name": Loyalty Game (Unfixed, refreshable)


    "Golden Finger Type": Passive & Active Type


    "Golden Finger Effect (Passive)": You will see the impact of your actions and words on your subordinates and superiors.


    "Golden Finger Effect (Active)": You can actively check the "Subordinate''s" Loyalty. And... once a certain level of Loyalty is reached, initiate the Loyalty Game.


    Note: Subordinates include your directly reporting juniors, those under your command in name, or those who are controlled by you and submit to your authority. Past subordinates are also included in this scope.


    Looking at his new Golden Finger, Qiu Tu blinked his eyes.


    A multi-functional Golden Finger?


    The Loyalty Game?


    Seems... pretty interesting.


    From the description of this Golden Finger, he could not only see the impact of his every word and deed on his superiors and subordinates, but he could also actively check the Loyalty of subordinates and start a "Game"?


    Although he didn''t yet know what the "Game" was about, Qiu Tu felt that this whole Golden Finger fit well with his upcoming development plan: gathering followers, expanding his group, and increasing his influence within the three major forces.


    And combined with [Crisis Intuition] giving him danger warnings....


    ''One "defense," one "expansion," perfect!''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was eager to test out his newly acquired Golden Finger.


    He got up and was about to leave the conference room when he realized that a uniform had slid off his body.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then glanced at the epaulettes on the uniform.


    Two bars with a flower.


    That was one more bar than Qiu Tu''s, which meant... it was a senior level position.


    Qiu Tu then looked at the color of the uniform. Black.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu felt goosebumps all over his body.


    He vaguely remembered someone entering his office in his sleep and covering him with a piece of clothing.


    Because [Crisis Intuition] hadn''t given any warnings, Qiu Tu hadn''t paid it any mind.


    At that time, he had thought that it might be the beautiful young widow Liu Fuping, or the cute Song Qing, who had covered him with the clothing.


    At worst, it could have been Secretary Bai checking on him after starting work and draping a piece of clothing over him on her own initiative.


    But... he had thought it over and over and never expected that it would be Jia Shu who had covered him!


    After all, only the Political Department of the Quan Investigation Bureau wore black uniforms, and there was only one senior level official in the Political Department....


    That instant, Qiu Tu felt that his entire being was not alright. What crafty scheme was that sly old fox conceiving this time? Or did his sexual orientation suddenly have some issues?


    But... as the old saying goes, a higher-ranked official can crush you to death. When one''s immediate superior shows concern, one should at least say thank you.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu pushed aside his desire to test the new Golden Finger and decided to meet with Jia Shu first.


    He folded the uniform neatly, got up, and walked towards Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu''s office had two locations, one on the 12th floor at the top level and one on the 9th at a midpoint.


    The former was his private office as a high-level official of the Investigation Bureau, while the latter was where he normally worked.


    And Qiu Tu was headed to the office on the 9th floor.


    But just as he got to Jia Shu''s office door, before Qiu Tu could knock, the door to the office opened by itself: Liu Fuping, carrying documents and swaying gracefully, came out from inside.

 Chapter 64 - 58: Acquiring a New Golden Finger_2

    With a backward wave, Liu Fuping yawned and then looked up to see Qiu Tu standing there.


    When she saw Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping paused for a moment, then she lazily lifted her hand and saluted, "Good day, sir~~"


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind and asked with a smile, "Sister Liu, are you here to report on your work?"


    Liu Fuping spoke lazily, "Yes. The minister takes last night''s case very seriously. Thus, he had me come over to report on the interrogation."


    "Poor me just took a bath and lay down, hadn''t slept long before being called up~ My skin''s feeling awful now."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu intentionally leaned closer to Liu Fuping, examining her closely.


    Liu Fuping touched her face, puzzled, "What''s wrong?"


    Qiu Tu feigned surprise and said, "You said your skin was feeling bad, didn''t you? I just took a close look, and if I didn''t know your age, Sister Liu, I''d have thought you were a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl."


    "Hahaha..." Liu Fuping couldn''t straighten her waist from the laughter that Qiu Tu''s teasing induced, her chest heaving. She punched Qiu Tu lightly a few times, "Sir, if you keep flirting with me like this, be careful I might just cling to you~~"


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +1]


    Spotting the prompt that floated before his eyes, Qiu Tu''s eyes sparkled slightly. He hadn''t expected that this could also increase loyalty.


    He was inclined to tease the beautiful young woman before him a bit more, but just then, a cough from Jia Shu sounded in the office, "Ahem!"


    At the almost explicit reminder, both felt a slight chill.


    Liu Fuping pointed towards the door and then made a "I''m leaving" gesture with her hand, before sneakily fleeing the scene.


    Qiu Tu too adjusted his emotions, straightened the uniform that had been mussed, and reached out to knock on the door.


    "Knock knock knock..."


    "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed the door open and entered Jia Shu''s office.


    Jia Shu was looking at him with a smile, teasingly saying, "Chief Qiu adapts quickly to the environment. Just in a day''s time, you''ve already ingratiated yourself with the subordinates."


    Qiu Tu, never one to be embarrassed, went along and said, "It''s all for the sake of getting the job done."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile, not dwelling on the previous issue, but switching to a different topic, "Does Chief Qiu know what happened last night?"


    Qiu Tu naturally asked, "About Master Qin Si''s escape?"


    Jia Shu nodded.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "With Master Qin Si causing such a fuss last night, even calling to curse me out, how could I not know."


    With a grin that was not quite a grin, Jia Shu said, "Then do you know if he ultimately managed to escape?"


    Qiu Tu, showcasing his acting skills, first froze, then pretended to be surprised and asked, "He escaped? How did he manage that?"


    As Qiu Tu spoke, Jia Shu''s narrow eyes were fixed intently on him.


    Not spotting any flaws, Jia Shu then said with a forced smile, "He was taken away by a secret department of the military, the Security Department."


    "The Security Department?" Qiu Tu timely showed a hint of confusion, "What does this have to do with the Security Department?"


    Then, pretending to ponder for a second or two, he showed an expression of sudden realization. He then asked tentatively, "Minister, does this have to do with Qin Shuman?"


    When Jia Shu heard Qiu Tu''s words, his face immediately showed satisfaction, "You guessed right."


    He said with a feigned laugh, "Yesterday, when Master Qin Si left the Qin Family, he took only one person with him, and that was Qin Shuman."


    "Plus, you''ve repeatedly pointed out the issues with Qin Shuman''s existence to us."


    "Therefore, we boldly speculate that Qin Shuman is with the Security Department. She must be a mole planted by the Security Department by the Bureau Chief''s side."


    "All the recent events should have been planned and executed by her."


    On hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu feigned surprise and asked, "She''s not from City Hall but the military?"


    Jia Shu nodded with a grin that was more of a smirk.


    Qiu Tu acted as if deep in thought, as if piecing together Qin Shuman''s identity with all the recent events.


    After a moment, he asked with a quirky expression, "Then what''s her relationship with the United Front?"


    A satisfied look once again appeared on Jia Shu''s face, "That''s precisely the issue."


    "This morning, I and the Bureau Chief thoroughly combed through all the events that happened after Qin Shuman came to him, and we indeed found a lot of doubt points."


    "And when we positioned her as the mole in the Security Department, most of the doubt points were resolved."


    "Only the United Front point, we just can''t figure it out no matter how hard we try."


    As he said this, Jia Shu stood up and paced back and forth, saying, "You once said she was colluding with the United Front to drum up support for you."


    "But... the most important duty of the Security Department is to combat Anti-government Armed Forces. They should be inherently incompatible."


    Qiu Tu nodded at the right moment, "Indeed, it doesn''t make sense."


    At this point, he changed his tone, "But... the fact is just so. I''m not clear why either."


    Jia Shu said with a smile, "We are not doubting you, we just feel that this woman has many secrets."


    At this point, Jia Shu finally revealed his purpose, "So, Qiu Tu... are you willing to continue your contact with Qin Shuman, to deliver intelligence to her, to help her spy on the Investigation Bureau, to monitor Director Yan?"


    Seeing a surprised expression on Qiu Tu''s face, Jia Shu added with an ambiguous smile, "Of course, I''m not asking you to betray the Bureau Chief, to betray the Investigation Bureau."


    "What specific intelligence can be delivered, and what information can be disclosed, the Bureau Chief and I will authorize and guide you."


    This time, Qiu Tu was truly surprised. He hesitantly asked, "A double agent?"


    Jia Shu''s smile faded as he spoke earnestly, "Exactly."


    "We now suspect that the military or the Security Department has been infiltrated by the anti-government organizations."


    "It''s very possible that there are spies from the anti-government organizations among the leaders of the military and the Security Department."


    "One of the main tasks of the Political Department is internal supervision and counter-espionage. So we cannot just sit back and do nothing."


    "So, I hope you can take on this important task, to be a double agent..."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    What could Qiu Tu say?


    Since Jia Shu had so "kindly" offered him the chance to contact Qin Shuman, how could he possibly refuse.


    So after feigning hesitation for a while, he finally nodded and agreed.


    Seeing Qiu Tu agree, a rare, genuine smile appeared on Jia Shu''s face.


    Then he provided detailed instructions on the work Qiu Tu had to do going forward.


    Like how to reconnect with Qin Shuman; what intelligence could be revealed and what could not; what information Qiu Tu needed to probe from Qin Shuman, and so on...


    Thus, the two talked in detail for an hour before ending their conversation.


    After the talk, Jia Shu personally saw Qiu Tu out of the office.


    At the door of the office, he patted Qiu Tu heavily on the shoulder and said earnestly, "Do a good job. The Bureau Chief and I have high hopes for you."


    Qiu Tu quickly showed a flattered expression, "Thank you for the recognition from the Bureau Chief and the Minister!"


    "I will certainly do my best!"


    Jia Shu smiled and nodded.


    He watched Qiu Tu leave, waiting until he reached the end of the corridor, turned the corner, and disappeared from view before Jia Shu''s expression gradually turned cold.


    He looked thoughtfully down the corridor where Qiu Tu had vanished, wondering what he was thinking...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having left Jia Shu''s line of sight, no longer had the eager look from before.


    He frowned slightly, pondering whether Jia Shu''s sudden move was a test or a true intent to investigate the Security Department.


    ''Could they really trust me?''


    Qiu Tu felt something was off but also thought he might be overthinking...


    Just then, a prompt suddenly appeared in front of him.


    [Jia Shu: Doubt-0, Satisfaction+0] sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu:???


    ---

 Chapter 65 - 59: Testing the New Golden Finger (7k for subscription)

    Seeing the prompt that suddenly popped up before his eyes, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered that his new Golden Finger ability allowed him not only to see the loyalty changes of his subordinates but also to notice how his superiors'' attitudes toward him changed.


    So, after having such an enthusiastic chat with Jia Shu and acting for so long, Jia Shu was completely unmoved?


    When he saw Jia Shu looking at him with appreciation just now, he almost thought that Jia Shu truly believed in him and intended to cultivate him as a confidant.


    It turns out that in the drama of life, it''s all about acting.


    You act me, I act you, and no one knows for sure who is sincere...


    And when he thought about the incident of Jia Shu draping a coat over his shoulders, Qiu Tu felt even more chilled¡ªhe suddenly remembered that Jia Shu never wore a uniform.


    So Jia Shu had put on his uniform just for him...?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s gaze sharpened, and he once again resolved in his heart: he must take out Jia Shu.


    Having such a venomous snake watching over him meant he could never sleep peacefully!


    After encountering Jia Shu and inexplicably receiving a task to be a double agent, Qiu Tu returned to his original "mission line"¡ªto test out his newly acquired Golden Finger.


    His first target, of course, was the numerous subordinates in the Interrogation Section.


    The Interrogation Section had one Principal Staff, two Deputy Staffs, and Qiu Tu was the third Deputy Staff.


    Since he had just joined the Interrogation Section yesterday, his management scope hadn''t been defined yet, so theoretically, everyone in the Interrogation Section with a lower rank than him counted as his subordinate.


    Thus, Qiu Tu simply took advantage of his position to inspect each work team in turn.


    [Song Yan, Loyalty: 35]


    [Wang Xue, Loyalty: 37]


    [Cheng Jianxin, Loyalty: 31]


    [Chen Fan, Loyalty: 32]


    [...]


    As the newly appointed chief in the department, most agents took an attitude that was neither offending nor overly friendly towards him.


    So everywhere Qiu Tu went, the agents all stood up, saluted, and greeted him. Although they were polite, they were not very enthusiastic.


    This indeed matched their loyalty ratings of around 30.


    After making his rounds, Qiu Tu guessed that "30 Loyalty" might be a threshold, indicating that they recognized Qiu Tu as their superior and were willing to follow his orders.


    If Qiu Tu assigned tasks or scolded them, they wouldn''t openly defy him; after all, they still needed to have a place in the department.


    If the loyalty rating was below 30, it could mean that Qiu Tu couldn''t even maintain his authority as a chief in front of them, and they might covertly resist his orders.


    If the loyalty rating was above 30, for example, 40, 60, 80, they would become increasingly convinced by Qiu Tu and follow his instructions.


    Even at a certain high level of loyalty... if Qiu Tu asked them to defy the orders of the Investigation Bureau or betray the Bureau, they would comply.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu gained some general understanding of what the loyalty rating numbers meant.


    With this understanding, he went specifically to check on the five agents of the "Female Spy Special Task Force" he had led personally last night to see if they would differ from the others.


    After checking, Qiu Tu discovered that two agents from the service team had loyalty ratings not much different from the rest: 39 and 40.


    But the Pharmacist, Wang Xi, and the record keeper, Song Qing, were more interesting.


    Wang Xi had the highest loyalty rating he had come across on his way: 45.


    Contrastingly, Song Qing was at the opposite end, with only... 28. The lowest in the entire department.


    This left Qiu Tu puzzled. He had no idea how he had offended this girl.


    Hadn''t he not done anything yesterday? Are women truly this unreasonable?


    And throughout the whole process of testing the Golden Finger, the only disappointment for Qiu Tu was that he hadn''t run into Liu Fuping.


    It seemed like the beautiful young wife had taken the day off again to catch up on sleep at home.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu was very curious to know how much loyalty this beautiful young wife had toward him, whether it was higher or lower than an ordinary agent?


    This would determine how Qiu Tu would perceive her...


    ....


    In no time, a day passed.


    At five o''clock in the afternoon, Qiu Tu finished work on time.


    After slacking off the entire day, he felt energetic and was ready to go home and get ready to meet up with Qin Shuman.


    However, just as he left the department, he bumped into his superior, the Chief of the Interrogation Section: Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao was a man in his early thirties and a confidant who had come down from the Sanctuary along with Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Being able to serve as the chief of the ace section of the ace department of the Investigation Bureau, he was deeply trusted by Yan Chen and Jia Shu and was cultivated as a key figure by both.


    He did not disappoint Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s trust, working in a steady and meticulous manner, with the ability to unearth and cultivate talent.


    This could be seen from the orderly completion of the interrogation by several agents of the "Female Spy Special Task Force" last night.


    It should be noted... these agents were merely ordinary people recruited from Xinjie City just last year.


    To be able to train them to the point where they could independently complete complex interrogations in less than a year is proof of his capability.


    Comparing this to the agents in the Special Service Department who hadn''t even mastered how to handle a gun... the difference was instantly clear.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t act arrogant but saluted respectfully, "Good day, Chief."


    Zheng Tao seemed preoccupied, nodded expressionlessly, and brushed past Qiu Tu, ready to leave.


    Qiu Tu, who offered a warm face only to receive a cold shoulder, didn''t mind. He shrugged and prepared to continue on his way home.


    But just after he took a couple of steps, Zheng Tao behind him seemed to snap out of it and suddenly turned around, asking, "Chief Qiu, are you leaving work now?"


    Qiu Tu let out a bewildered "Huh?" He stopped in his tracks and turned around, baffled, "Yes, it''s time to get off work."


    Zheng Tao glanced at his watch and frowned slightly, "You leave as soon as it''s time? Do you see anyone else leaving?"


    Qiu Tu was full of question marks.


    He had worked overtime all of last night, and he was scheduled to work overtime again tonight as a double agent¡ªnot to mention he was simply leaving at the regular quitting time. What was wrong with that?


    Was Zheng Tao taking out frustrations on him that he faced elsewhere? Or...was his management technique to pua his subordinates into working overtime?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t indulge him. He pretended to look around, then feigned realization, "Indeed, no one''s leaving. Chief Zheng, I get it. Don''t worry, I''ll call everyone to leave together right now!"


    With that, Qiu Tu made as if to rally the investigative teams to leave work together.


    Upon seeing this, Zheng Tao got anxious. He quickly grabbed Qiu Tu and lowered his voice, "Chief Qiu, what are you doing!"


    "What do you mean by leaving work! As agents of the Political Department, we should be working overtime and dedicating every second to the department, to the Bureau! To relieve the Minister and the Bureau Chief of their worries!"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu was full of question marks again.


    You say serving the people, that''s understandable, but working overtime to relieve the worries of the Minister and Bureau Chief?


    Could the person in front of him be a brown-noser?


    However, those were thoughts he could only afford to keep to himself, so Qiu Tu said with a puzzled look, "But we can''t just work without rest either."


    "The value of work is not measured by time."


    "Only with proper rest can we have the energy to throw ourselves into our work."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then smiled and waved his hand, "Anyway, I''m off."


    "Goodbye, sir."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu turned around and left the Interrogation Section with a flourish.


    Working overtime was out of the question; he had lived through the 997 grind in his past life and if he had to go through that again in this life, it would make his reincarnation pointless.


    He was in this world to enjoy life, not to suffer.


    If Zheng Tao wanted to work late, that was his choice, but Qiu Tu was not going to oblige.


    And seeing Qiu Tu just walk away from the Interrogation Section like that, Zheng Tao''s face turned blue with anger.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, sputtering "You... you... you..." for quite some time, eventually letting it go, frustrated.


    Meanwhile, an array of prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    [Zheng Tao Satisfaction -5....]


    [Song Qing Loyalty +3]


    [Wang Xue Loyalty +1]


    [Cheng Jianxin Loyalty +4]


    [...]


    Seeing this array of prompts, Qiu Tu nearly missed a step as he walked downstairs. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His head was filled with question marks: ??


    Well, it turned out that bunch of investigators had been eavesdropping on his conversation with Zheng Tao.


    But...just by firing off a few comments about overtime, he gained so much loyalty?


    Just how much were that group oppressed by Zheng Tao normally...?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment. Suddenly, he remembered the Female Spy Special Task Force working through the entire previous night and continuing work today.


    It dawned on Qiu Tu... perhaps this was a way he could leverage change in the Interrogation Section...


    .....


    As he thought this over, Qiu Tu drove back to his own place.


    He was meeting with Qin Shuman tonight and needed to prepare in advance.


    After parking his car at the end of the alley, Qiu Tu locked it and, swinging his car keys, walked toward his house.


    However, as soon as he entered the alley, a scream pierced his ears, "Oh my God! A ghost!"


    Qiu Tu jumped in shock and quickly looked in the direction of the sound, only to see a neighbor scramble away in panic.


    Confused, Qiu Tu looked around but saw nothing out of the ordinary.


    Touching his head in puzzlement, he continued to walk down the alley.


    Initially thinking the neighbor was just ill, he was taken aback to find that everyone who knew him ran faster than monkeys at his approach.


    More question marks formed over Qiu Tu''s head as he failed to understand what was happening.


    He looked down at his attire, and though the black uniform of the Political Department might be quite intimidating to ordinary people, it shouldn''t be enough to make anyone flee at the sight of it, right?


    What on earth had happened?

 Chapter 66 - 60: Heard I Died? (7k for Monthly Tickets)

    Qiu Tu''s philosophy had always been to ask whenever he didn''t understand something, rather than stewing in his confusion alone.


    So, when he encountered yet another neighbor who ran away at the sight of him, Qiu Tu swiftly stepped forward with an agile move and grabbed the fellow by the collar, "Uncle Chen, what are you running for?"


    In Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu was considered a person of stature.


    Before the establishment of Xinjie City, he ruled over several nearby streets, leading the likes of Ah-Tai and Eagle.


    Although he wasn''t particularly warm to the local neighbors, he didn''t bully people like other groups did. He would even occasionally stick his neck out to help resolve troubles for the neighbors.


    After Xinjie City was established, Qiu Tu, through his connection with Secretary Bai, joined the government ranks, instantly becoming a lofty figure in the eyes of those neighbors.


    But Qiu Tu still didn''t throw his weight around the streets. Instead, he leveraged his relationship with Yan Chen to find jobs for his brothers like Eagle who followed him, and even secured some benefits for the street, truly full of the milk of human kindness.


    This way of conducting himself also earned him a good reputation and a certain degree of prestige in the street.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had never before encountered a neighbor who took off running at the sight of him.


    What surprised him even more was that once he stopped Uncle Chen, the man''s face instantly turned dead white. He kept bowing and scraping to Qiu Tu, mumbling nonstop, "Qiu Tu, we had no quarrels in the past, and no enmity in recent days."


    "When you were alive, I even watched your door for you. Yes, I stole two potatoes from you once, but I was starving. Please don''t take me with you."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu caught a keyword with sharp ears, "when you were alive."


    He thought backward and realized... did these neighbors think he had died?


    Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly, and holding onto Uncle Chen, he "smack smack" slapped him twice, jolting him awake...


    After getting slapped, Uncle Chen wasn''t scared anymore. Instead, he shouted with excitement, "Qiu Tu, you''re not dead? You scared me to death! I thought I had encountered a ghost!"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Looking at Uncle Chen, who was not watching his mouth, Qiu Tu suppressed the urge to slap him twice more, and instead patiently asked about the whole story.


    It didn''t take long... for him to know everything.


    He walked home with a dark face.


    Then... there she was, kneeling on the ground beneath his apartment building, draped in mourning clothes, holding a black and white photo of himself... Shen Lingshuang.


    The little girl couldn''t fill out the mourning attire and looked pitiful. Her big eyes were red and swollen from crying, yet she was still throwing joss paper into the brazier while clutching the black and white photo of Qiu Tu and crying nonstop.


    Seeing this, a wave of exasperation washed over Qiu Tu.


    He approached Shen Lingshuang and asked in a grim tone, "I''ve heard... you''ve been going around telling people I''m dead?"


    When Shen Lingshuang heard Qiu Tu''s voice, she was stunned for a moment, her gaze settling on his black boots.


    Then, bit by bit, her eyes moved upward until she saw Qiu Tu''s handsome and dashing face. Only then did her expression shift from sorrow to disbelief.


    For a moment, she leaped up from the ground and threw herself onto Qiu Tu, then burst into loud sobs, "Wuu wuu wuu! Qiu Tu! Qiu Tu, you''re still alive! Still alive! That''s great!"


    Qiu Tu had originally wanted to teach the "jinx" of a girl a lesson for cursing him to death, but seeing her genuinely distressed look made him go soft. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He hesitated for a moment, but ultimately, he gently supported the girl''s petite derriere with his right hand and lightly patted her back with his left, soothing her, "Alright, alright, why the tears? Also, who told you that I died?"


    Shen Lingshuang replied with a pitiful look, "No one told me."


    "I guessed it myself."


    Two question marks appeared above Qiu Tu''s head: ??


    Shen Lingshuang explained amidst sobs, "When I woke up, I found the house in disarray, the door damaged, the roof broken, things all over the place. I got really anxious, fearing the worst had happened."


    "After that, I searched everywhere for you but couldn''t find any trace."


    "I asked Sister Xin, and Sister Xin said you were fine, just busy with something."


    "Although I didn''t believe it, I still clung to the last hope at home, waiting for you. I waited for you all night and morning."


    "But when you didn''t come home for an entire night plus a morning, I panicked completely."


    "Then I went to find Eagle to ask about your real situation. I asked lots of people and finally reached the Old Alley Street Public Security Office."


    "I had someone send a message before Eagle came out."


    "Seeing me, he said you were okay. I asked him to call you, to let you know everything was alright."


    "He claimed he didn''t have a communicator and that you were probably busy. He told me not to disturb you and to go home and wait."


    "Maybe because I experienced too much disappointment starting last night, and with you not returning for the whole night and day, I began to suspect that something had really happened to you, and that he and Sister Xin were worried I''d be upset, conspiring to deceive me."


    At this point, tears came down Shen Lingshuang''s face again, and she said with a choked voice, "I''ve seen too many...."


    Perhaps remembering that the Cataclysm Awakening was a secret, she deliberately left her sentence vague, "I''ve seen too many who had accidents."


    "I''m just too sad, too sad...."


    With that, she buried her face in Qiu Tu''s chest and began to cry again.


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s account, Qiu Tu genuinely didn''t know whether to laugh or cry.


    He felt it wasn''t strange for Shen Lingshuang to overthink. The Cataclysm Awakening was an exceedingly rare event, and right after awakening, he had gone out and not returned the entire night or day.


    If he were Shen Lingshuang, he probably would have had irrational thoughts as well.


    He couldn''t help but feel a tinge of self-blame. He had slacked off all day, how had he forgotten to come back to ease her worries?

 Chapter 67 - 60: Heard I Died? (7k for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Thinking this way, his heart softened. He held Shen Lingshuang gently and patted her, then felt a bit conflicted inside.


    Originally, when he knew that Shen Lingshuang was downstairs mourning for him and burning joss paper, he thought she was just messing around or cursing him.


    After all, it''s quite normal for a young lady to suddenly become petulant.


    But unexpectedly, Shen Lingshuang was genuinely worried about him...


    Silly girl. We''ve known each other for only a few days, and yet she is so upset over me.


    "Whistle--" And as Qiu Tu was thinking this, a whistling sound suddenly came from upstairs.


    Qiu Tu looked up.


    He saw Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun, a few guys, laughing and looking down from the window of the upstairs corridor, clearly enjoying the spectacle.


    Qiu Tu pointed at them with a helpless expression on his face, feeling like he had really encountered a bunch of bad friends.


    Perhaps because she had tired herself out from crying, Shen Lingshuang cried for a while then fell asleep in Qiu Tu''s arms like a koala.


    The girl was only fifteen or sixteen years old, slender, and Qiu Tu, being a Cataclysmic, had undergone a significant boost in strength, so he barely felt her weight.


    Thus, Qiu Tu didn''t disturb her and simply kicked the brazier and the black and white photo aside, then carried the girl upstairs.


    Reaching the upstairs, several brothers were waiting, looking at the two with teasing faces and mischievous smiles.


    Qiu Tu glared at them, carried Shen Lingshuang back to his room and gently placed her on his bed.


    Eagle was quite reliable. The door that Qiu Tu had broken was now replaced with a new one, and it was an iron door at that.


    After closing the iron door and coming to the corridor, Eagle and the others leaned against the window.


    Seeing Qiu Tu coming out, Eagle passed him a cigarette and softly said, "She''s a good girl."


    "This afternoon, she mourned for you as a wife, with sackcloth and burning paper."


    Qiu Tu held the cigarette in his mouth, paused for a moment while striking a match, then struck it again.


    "Chk~"


    The flame ignited, and Qiu Tu lit the cigarette in his mouth, then said indifferently, "Don''t think too much. She feels that if something happened to me, it would be her fault, and she should take responsibility."


    "Plus she has emotional trauma, that''s why she''s so sensitive about this matter."


    Hearing their conversation, Ah-Tai, the big fellow, popped his head from behind and interjected, "What kind of reason is that? Brother Tu, I''d bet my nonexistent father''s life, that girl likes you a hundred percent."


    Qiu Tu said nothing, just quietly continued smoking.


    Eagle looked up at Qiu Tu and smiled.


    If even Ah-Tai of simple mind could see it, it was obvious Qiu Tu could too; he was just being stubborn.


    However, Qiu Tu was after all the eldest among them, and if he didn''t want to express his stance, it meant he had his own reasons, so Eagle tactfully changed the subject, "Brother Ted, how''s it going for you in the Special Service Department these past two days?"


    Hearing Eagle''s question, Ah-Tai immediately got excited. He waved his thick arms around and boasted, "Do I even need to mention it? Where am I not number one?"


    "Eagle, let me tell you, none of those agents in the training team can match me!"


    "I reckon, in a few days I''ll get promoted. Then I can do more for Brother Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked at Ah-Tai, feeling that it sounded a bit far-fetched.


    He exchanged looks with Eagle and Ah-Kun, finding the same answer.


    But knowing Ah-Tai''s personality, none of them confronted him about it.


    After all, Ah-Tai was someone who loved face.


    They remembered a time when Ah-Tai, while drinking, bragged that he caught a chicken with his bare hands in an alley.


    Eagle, also drunk at the time, questioned his boast¡ªXinjie City was so poor that even a bird that fell could be eaten; how could there be living chickens.


    As a result... for the next few days, every time Ah-Tai saw Eagle, he insisted on taking him to that alley.


    How things ended up, Qiu Tu didn''t enquire, only knowing that the two seemed to be a bit off during that time.


    So, after listening to Ah-Tai''s words, everyone hurriedly agreed, "Ah yes, yes. My Brother Ted is the best in the world."


    "Yeah, there''s no way Brother Ted''s opponents could be those small fries from the Special Service Department."


    "Ah-Tai is really good indeed."


    Seeing the three of them praising him, Ah-Tai immediately broke into a grin.


    After updating each other on Ah-Tai''s recent situation, Qiu Tu turned to look at Eagle and Ah-Kun and asked, "Don''t just talk about Ah-Tai. Eagle, Ah-Kun, how are you guys doing?"


    "Have you passed the selection from the Political Department?"


    Upon hearing this, Eagle nodded his head, and Ah-Kun also spoke up, "Brother Tu, don''t worry. Both Brother Ying and I passed the written and the interviews."


    "The Political Department has already notified us to report there tomorrow."


    "But it''s unclear which department we will be assigned to."


    Qiu Tu took his last puff of the cigarette, slightly nodded his head, then bent down to extinguish the butt and said, "I will be meeting with someone from the Security Department tonight."


    "They''ve promised that they can arrange for me to place two people in the military."


    "When there''s time tomorrow, let''s gather the brothers and see who''s suitable."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the three of them were slightly surprised.


    The youths who grew up together in troubled times knew from a young age that in this dog-eat-dog era, an individual''s strength was too small, and only by sticking together could they survive.


    This principle, even now as they were grown up, flowed in their every vein.


    So, the stronger their small group was, the safer they were. In this era, it meant they could live better.


    "Let''s create a great undertaking together!" Qiu Tu flicked the extinguished cigarette butt away and was the first to extend his hand.


    Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun also stacked their hands on top, "To create a great undertaking!"


    The dying sunlight bathed the four men, golden and radiant, as if foreshadowing the golden age they were about to create together... sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Eagle Loyalty +1, Current Loyalty: 91]


    [Ah-Tai Loyalty +1, Current Loyalty: 96]


    [Ah-Kun Loyalty +2, Current Loyalty: 87]


    .....


    Having stayed up late and endured a night of fear, Shen Lingshuang was indeed tired, so she slept until past 9 o''clock before she groggily got up.


    The first thing she did upon getting out of bed was to look for Qiu Tu.


    By now, Qiu Tu had already sent Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun away. He had exchanged back the guns and the Communicator, completely eliminating last night''s risks.


    So, he was sitting by the bed, silently pondering the next step in his plan.


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang stirring, Qiu Tu came back to reality, turned his head to glance at her, and softly asked, "Awake? Are you hungry?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu at her side obviously reassured Shen Lingshuang. She fell back onto the bed in her usual lady-like manner, then pouted and said coyly, "I''m not hungry."


    Qiu Tu laughed at her antics and didn''t take offense with the young girl. He went to the living room to bring back some food they had ordered.


    The dishes were, of course, cold, but in these chaotic times, no one cared much about such things.


    Shen Lingshuang was stubborn, but she wasn''t foolish.


    Seeing Qiu Tu bring the food, she immediately said, giggling, "This is you begging me to eat."


    Then she sat up from the bed and began to devour her meal with her chopsticks.


    Seeing her cute ways, Qiu Tu smiled and sat quietly by, watching her eat.


    The young girl must have suffered quite a bit recently, so she gobbled down her food, her cheeks puffing out like a hamster''s.


    Qiu Tu went to get her a cup of water in the middle of the meal and coaxed her to eat more slowly.


    It wasn''t until she was almost full and slowed down that Qiu Tu spoke softly,


    "Ling Shuang, when I initially sought you out to create the ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' we made a verbal agreement."

 Chapter 68 - 61: A Night Meeting with Qin Shuman (7k for Subscriptions)

    "You help me refine the potion, I''ll give you freedom."


    "Now that you''ve helped me refine the potion, I should also give you your freedom."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "You are a suspect proposed by Yan Chen with his pardon power for other uses, and your record has already been erased from the Investigation Bureau."


    "Yesterday afternoon, during the handover with the other agents, I crossed your record off the handover sheet."


    "Plus, with the fire that Master Qin Si started last night, your traces have now been completely cleared."


    "So, you''re free..."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu placed two Little Goldfish and a hundred Silver Yuan on the table, admonishing her,


    "This is the fare for your trip home. Sew it into your clothes in a bit, and make sure no one discovers it."


    "On your way back, be careful and don''t act like a spoilt young lady. Compromise where you can. Others won''t indulge you like I do."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu stood up and left the room.


    But when he reached the doorway, Qiu Tu stopped as if he remembered something. With his back to Shen Lingshuang, he said, "Oh, and remember to close the door when you leave."


    After saying this, he left home without looking back.


    As a pharmacist capable of creating Awakening Elixirs, Shen Lingshuang was well aware of her value.


    And having interacted with Qiu Tu and his people in the past couple of days, Shen Lingshuang also knew how much assets Qiu Tu had.


    So, she really never imagined that after his successful Cataclysm Awakening, Qiu Tu would let her go, and... even leave his "entire fortune" for her as travel expenses.


    In that moment, Qiu Tu reached a new height in her heart.


    She looked up blankly at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, her eyes reddening slightly. After a moment, tears uncontrollably began to fall "plop plop"...


    It had been so long since she left home, and she had never met someone who treated her so well... Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, she quickly looked down and shoveled food into her mouth, the food mixed with tears tasted salty...


    After a few bites, she abruptly lifted her head, silently making a decision...


    ....


    [Shen Lingshuang Loyalty+12, Current Loyalty: 83]


    Driving towards the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu saw the alert that popped up but didn''t feel particularly happy.


    Guided by the "Emotion Manual", he knew all too well how to manipulate a naive girl like Shen Lingshuang.


    "108 Ways to Enhance Affection" No. 82: Give real emotion while appearing empty-handed.


    Women are emotional creatures, and once the relationship progresses to a certain point, a big gesture can touch her heart far more than small ones (and because the gesture is so grand, she''s likely to refuse to accept it).


    Thus, a decisive departure and leaving all his money to Shen Lingshuang was actually a tactic he used to encourage her to stay of her own accord.


    The reasons were simple. Besides his worry that Shen Lingshuang might encounter danger on her way home, he also desperately needed an experienced pharmacist for his recently established enterprise.


    But for some reason, after all that, Qiu Tu felt a twinge of regret.


    Was it because of the jokes Eagle and Ah-Tai made that afternoon? Or maybe because of Shen Lingshuang''s foolish kindness towards him?


    He felt that his methods were somewhat despicable.


    After quietly reflecting for a while, Qiu Tu''s gaze slowly regained its firmness.


    ''A person with great ambitions shouldn''t bother with trifles. I''ll just have to treat her doubly well in the future.''


    ....


    The twenty-minute drive passed in a flash. At 22:30, Qiu Tu arrived at the Milan Grand Hotel.


    Like the last time, he ordered a cup of tea and sat in the lobby''s resting area, waiting patiently.


    This place might indeed be a base for the Security Department, as it was constantly monitored. Thus, within 2 minutes, a server again delivered an envelope to him.


    Qiu Tu opened the envelope, and inside was indeed another keycard. Room number: 511.


    After taking the keycard, Qiu Tu walked towards the elevators.


    But just as he was about to step onto the elevator, suddenly, his communicator rang out.


    "Ring ring ring..."


    The clear ring of the communicator sounded especially jarring in the empty hall. Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and took out his communicator to look.


    It was a call from Secretary Bai.


    Without hesitation, Qiu Tu answered.


    And then, Secretary Bai''s hushed voice came through, "Qiu Tu, where are you?"


    Qiu Tu, sensing something was off with Secretary Bai''s tone, responded quietly, "I''m out on a mission."


    Secretary Bai uttered a monosyllabic "hm", then spoke softly, "Listen to me now. There''s been an incident in the Interrogation Section, involving the special case team you''re responsible for."


    A chill went down Qiu Tu''s spine as he heard Secretary Bai continue, "The female spy you interrogated last night is dead."


    "She died in the guard room."


    "The specific cause of death is unknown, but foul play has not been ruled out."


    "The Bureau Chief was enraged and personally called for a coroner from the Sanctuary to determine the cause of death."


    "And including you, everyone who has had contact with that female spy in the past two days has been listed as a suspect."


    "This case was already significant, involving the Anti-government Armed Forces, several well-known businessmen in Xinjie City, as well as Vice President Tian with ties to the Sanctuary and several members of the Municipal Committee."


    "Now, with the death of the most important suspect and witness, the pressure on the Bureau Chief is immense. He may be forced to resort to some unconventional methods."


    "You must be very careful...."


    Having said that, Secretary Bai didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu''s response before hurriedly hanging up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." from the receiver, Qiu Tu''s face kept changing.


    The female spy interrogated last night is dead?


    Someone silenced her?


    Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly. This was not good news.


    Because if that female spy really was from the United Front, then it would prove that there might be spies from the United Front within the Investigation Bureau, especially within the Investigation Bureau Political Department!


    It''s no wonder Yan Chen was so furious if spies from the Investigation Bureau''s Intelligence Agency had been infiltrated.


    And considering the significant impact of the case involving the female spy, Yan Chen''s use of extraordinary measures could be justified.


    But why would Secretary Bai want to tip me off?


    As Qiu Tu pondered with furrowed brows, he stepped into the elevator.


    He pressed the button for the fifth floor, and the elevator doors slowly closed and began to ascend.


    "Ding!"


    Just as the elevator doors opened on the fifth floor, a bolt of lightning flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind, and his face turned pale!


    He finally understood why Secretary Bai would take such a big risk to tip him off!


    Because Secretary Bai, or rather Yan Chen... suspected that he himself was the one who carried out the silencing!


    The reason was simple: when he had first crossed over to this time, in order to make Yan Chen wary and pique his curiosity, he tied Qin Shuman to every power related to the Governing Hall and the United Front.


    Yesterday, once Qin Shuman''s identity with the Security Department was confirmed, most of the suspicions were cleared up, except for one: the rationale for her collusion with the United Front didn''t quite add up.


    Originally, with "Qin Shuman''s death" and as time passed, the incident would have slowly faded away, becoming an unsolvable case.


    But who would have thought the United Front spy Qiu Tu handled would be silenced?


    Wouldn''t that immediately raise the level of suspicion against Qiu Tu!


    After all, if Qiu Tu were a spy for the United Front, all doubts regarding the two cases would be neatly and logically explained.


    That''s why Secretary Bai took the risk to warn Qiu Tu, to give him a chance to escape....


    ''Damn! What rotten luck!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curse silently.


    Although he had nothing to fear from a straight back, what he did that night didn''t exactly keep him on the straight and narrow.


    If Yan Chen were to use extraordinary methods such as Supernatural Power to investigate, and it turned out he too had used Supernatural Power that night, he wouldn''t have a leg to stand on.


    ''I must find a way to catch that spy! Clear up this case!''


    ''Otherwise, I''ll be the one in trouble!''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took a deep breath, decided to quickly resolve matters with Qin Shuman that night, and leave some time to figure out the case involving the United Front spy.


    However, just as he thought this, suddenly, the door to room 503 beside him cracked open, and a hand shot out from the darkness, reaching for him!


    The moment the door to room 503 opened, Qiu Tu had already reacted, reflexively wanting to counter-attack. But upon smelling the familiar fragrance, a smile played at the corners of his mouth, and he stopped resisting...


    Thus, the owner of the hand easily seized Qiu Tu, pulling him into the room!


    "Click~" With a soft sound, the door closed, and the corridor returned to its quiet state, as if Qiu Tu had never been there.


    Meanwhile, in the dark room of 503, Qiu Tu felt a soft, seductive body pressing tightly against him.


    A dagger was also pressed against his neck.


    The softness of the body and the coldness of the dagger created a shocking contrast, adding a sense of allure and thrill to the atmosphere.


    "Chief Qiu seems a bit off tonight~~ You''re not as vigilant as usual," came Qin Shuman''s sultry, intoxicating voice from the darkness.


    "In a secret department, losing vigilance is tantamount to death~~ I hope Chief Qiu remembers my words when you''re down below."


    After speaking, the dagger glittering with a cold light slashed towards Qiu Tu''s neck!


    ---

 Chapter 69 - 62: Qin Shuman Recovers Her Health (Thanks to

    Facing Qin Shuman''s attack, Qiu Tu was unfazed.


    If Qin Shuman really had the intention to kill him, his [Crisis Intuition] would have warned him long ago.


    And now... since [Crisis Intuition] hadn''t issued a warning, it proved that... all of this was merely this woman''s "amusement".


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu didn''t dodge but even purposely leaned his neck closer, intending to see if Qin Shuman truly wanted to kill him.


    As expected, at the critical moment, the gleaming cold light from the dagger halted at Qiu Tu''s throat.


    Qin Shuman asked in a sultry voice, "Chief Qiu~~ you''re not dodging? Do you think I still need you to help me recover my body, so you dare not kill me?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu reached out and wrapped his arm around her slender waist, pressing her hot body tightly against his own muscular one. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he whispered into Qin Shuman''s ear, "No... it''s that I would be willing to die by your hand."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s cheesy sweet nothings, Qin Shuman''s face turned slightly red, and the next second, she angrily thrust the dagger into Qiu Tu''s shoulder!


    Unfortunately... the dagger in her hand was pliable, merely a piece of silver-glittering paper, and couldn''t hurt anyone at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu played along and cried out, "Ouch, ouch, ouch. Miss Shuman, you have to take responsibility."


    Qin Shuman was amused by Qiu Tu''s shameless manner.


    She lifted her leg and gave Qiu Tu a knee strike in the stomach, laughing, "So shameless."


    Qiu Tu clutched his stomach but didn''t forget to flirt, "Seems like you still care for me, or else you''d have aimed two inches lower."


    "You!" Qin Shuman was so annoyed she itched to really give Qiu Tu a blow there.


    But regrettably, after teasing, Qiu Tu immediately protected himself thoroughly, giving her no chance at all.


    Seeing this, she glared at Qiu Tu in frustration, but she didn''t continue the tussle and instead turned around, switched on the light, and strode into the room, motioning with her hand, "Come on. Let''s talk."


    It had to be said, Qin Shuman indeed was quite the enchantress. She could be enticing when she wanted and absolutely serious when she needed to be. Just a few steps she took exuded the air of a female officer''s bold and resolute bearing.


    Witnessing this, Qiu Tu also put away his playful demeanor and followed her into the room.


    They entered a hotel bedroom with twin beds.


    On one of the beds lay a woman wearing a dark green military uniform.


    The woman appeared younger than Qin Shuman, but equally stunning. Contrasted with Qin Shuman''s fully bloomed, myriad charms, she conveyed a more steely presence and less coquettish allure.


    Qiu Tu scrutinized her closely, vaguely seeing some of Qin Shuman''s features in her.


    He couldn''t help but look up at Qin Shuman and asked, "Is this your own body?"


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was also looking at her own body. Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she nodded slightly with complex emotions in her eyes.


    However, the next second, she snapped back to reality, then glanced at Qiu Tu skeptically, "Feeling a bit disappointed?"


    Qiu Tu looked at her in confusion, "Disappointed?"


    His tone changed, "I''m even more excited, okay!"


    Qin Shuman choked, throwing him a coquettish glare, "You''re utterly incorrigible."


    Qiu Tu laughed, knowing what Qin Shuman wanted to ask, and sincerely complimented, "Actually, both are comparable."


    Qin Shuman''s lips curled up into a slight smile, which quickly faded.


    She strode to a chair and began discussing serious matters, "You said you could help me recover my body?"


    Qiu Tu nodded and then took out the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] from his pocket.


    He explained, "This is a Cataclysmic treasure, named [Purification Holy Vial]. Its effect is to cleanse all Catastrophe Power from the body just by drinking the liquid inside."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman eyed the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] skeptically.


    Then she looked at Qiu Tu with a cynical smile, "Chief Qiu wouldn''t be playing tricks on me, would you~? Is there really such a Cataclysmic treasure in this world?"


    Qiu Tu unblinkingly and unflinchingly nodded.


    "If you don''t believe it, you can try it."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu handed the [Nightmare Crystal Vial] to Qin Shuman.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confidence, Qin Shuman uncertainly took the crystal bottle.


    Pulling out the stopper, she brought it to her nose and fanned lightly with her hand. A strong scent of alcohol assailed her senses.


    She looked toward Qiu Tu with some suspicion.


    Qiu Tu confidently gestured with his hand.


    After a moment''s hesitation, Qin Shuman tipped her head back and drank it all.


    As the liquid from the crystal bottle went down her throat, Qin Shuman furrowed her brows; the liquid smelled like alcohol, and upon swallowing... it felt like alcohol too!


    Burning, acrid, and it was 56-degree liquor!


    Qin Shuman frowned, swallowing the alcohol, then looked up at Qiu Tu with fiery eyes,


    ''Could this bad man actually be deceiving her?''


    At this time, seeing Qin Shuman drink the liquor, Qiu Tu standing in front of her also timely used his own ability [Reshape Order]...


    The next second, the gray mist reappeared, and matter was extracted.


    ''Remove the Cataclysmic ability from this woman''s body, and let her soul return.''


    As Qiu Tu set the rules, a mysterious power suddenly descended upon Qin Shuman with force.


    The second before, Qin Shuman was questioning Qiu Tu. The next second, she felt darkness before her eyes and lost consciousness...


    Watching Qin Shuman slowly collapse onto the bed, Qiu Tu immediately knew the ability had taken effect.


    He tried to lift his ability. The next second, dizziness followed.


    Qiu Tu hurriedly sat beside the bed, silently recovering.

 Chapter 70 - 62: Qin Shuman Regains Her Health (Thanks to

    About five or six minutes passed before Qiu Tu felt much better.


    He looked over at the still unconscious Qin Shuman, his tongue clicking in disbelief.


    This time he had only used his power for a mere ten seconds, yet the exhaustion was almost the same as when he had used it for several minutes the night before.


    It seemed... the "price" you had to pay for rules related to "Cataclysmic abilities" was much greater than that for ordinary rules.


    Fortunately, he had learned his lesson the night before, knowing that his power was not a wish that could come true whenever he wanted.


    Otherwise, if he had delayed a few more minutes tonight, he might have been completely drained.


    With such thoughts, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but silently caution himself in his heart that unless absolutely necessary, he must not overuse his Cataclysmic ability.


    Otherwise, no one knew what terrible consequences might ensue...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu half-reclined next to the two women, silently recuperating his spirit, while casually comparing their sizes, then waiting for Qin Shuman to awaken...


    ...


    "Rain Butterfly" felt like she had had a very long dream. In the dream, she seemed to have become Qin Shuman and was entangled with a man.


    The man was handsome but seemed to have many worries. There was always an indelible sadness between his brows, and a perpetual vigilance in his heart.


    Even though they had shared intimacy many times, even though she was candid with him, he was always on guard against her.


    Like how he clearly reported to Yan Chen and the others that he was a mole from the City Hall.


    But then he turned around and told her he was a mole from the military...


    Like how he had already secretly planned an escape and told her she could cooperate with him, but he didn''t reveal a thing...


    Maybe because she, like him, was a victim of the same incident, two lonely souls dwelling in others'' bodies, she always felt he was special.


    Thus, for such a special person, her interest and curiosity grew more and more...


    And so the dream went on, without knowing for how long.


    When Qin Shuman slowly woke up from her sleep, she found herself lying side by side with another "Qin Shuman," with one hand moving back and forth over their bodies.


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was stunned. She shook her slightly muddled head, and her thoughts gradually returned.


    She touched her face with a bit of surprise, then her body, and swiftly slapped away Qiu Tu''s mischievous hand before heading straight to the bathroom.


    Qiu Tu, whose hand had been slapped away, didn''t mind; he withdrew his hands, crossed them behind his head, and leaned back against the headboard with a smile, watching Qin Shuman get excited.


    Moments later, Qin Shuman ran out of the bathroom, her face excited as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! I''m back! I''m really back!"


    Qiu Tu nodded and teasingly said, "Congratulations, Miss Shuman... No, that''s not right, should I now call you Chief Rain Butterfly?"


    At these words, Qin Shuman also remembered her identity. She knew that Qiu Tu was reminding her, so her expression gradually became reserved, not so openly expressive.


    But even so, when her beautiful eyes looked at Qiu Tu, they still held deep affection.


    After all, only she knew how desperate she felt when her soul was stranded in someone else''s body in previous days, and how much she yearned to return to her own body.


    Therefore, in the face of Qiu Tu''s teasing, she spoke in a seductive tone, "Chief Qiu~ Names are just codes after all. Whatever you like to call it, just call it that~"


    "Between us, it doesn''t matter~"


    "Besides, Rain Butterfly isn''t even my real name~"


    After speaking, she sent Qiu Tu a coquettish glance, then returned to the bathroom to check her body again.


    After a full ten minutes or so, Qin Shuman had adjusted her mood and slowly walked out of the bathroom.


    Qiu Tu scrutinized her carefully.


    Compared to before, Qin Shuman, having returned to her original body, had lost some of the sensuality and frailty, gaining a hint of valiance and pride, her brows expressing strong confidence.


    No wonder she could hold the position of Head of the Security Department at such a young age.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu stretched languidly before reaching into his pocket for a cigarette, intending to take a drag to refresh himself.


    However, just as he placed the cigarette between his lips, Qin Shuman strode up to him and snatched it from his mouth.


    "You should smoke less. It''s bad for your health," she said.


    Feeling the concern in Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu helplessly spread his hands, "Can''t help it, the pressure''s enormous."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman tossed the cigarette away and asked curiously,


    "Why are you under so much pressure? What happened?"


    Qiu Tu blinked, "It''s all because of Vice President Tian''s case and that United Front matter."


    At the mention of "United Front," Qin Shuman froze for a moment before her beautiful eyes took on a serious expression.


    "Vice President Tian and the United Front? What case?"


    In fact, while Qin Shuman was unconscious, Qiu Tu had already been pondering how to "prove his innocence" and how to handle Vice President Tian''s case.


    As he thought, Qiu Tu unintentionally glanced at Qin Shuman lying beside him, and in that instant, an idea sparked in his mind.


    Huh? Could he possibly start with Qin Shuman?


    After all, one of the main tasks of the Security Department was to combat Anti-government Armed Forces.


    And Qin Shuman, being the head of the Investigation Department in the Security Department, should have a lot of information on Anti-government Armed Forces and spies among them, some of which might help him.


    At the very least, with Qin Shuman''s many years of service in the secret service, he could tell her the whole story and she might be able to give him some good advice.


    So, while Qin Shuman was unconscious, Qiu Tu was already considering how to utilize her as his ace supporter.


    Now, seeing Qin Shuman "take the bait," Qiu Tu didn''t delay, promptly recounting the whole story of Vice President Tian''s case...


    And after listening to Qiu Tu''s narration, Qin Shuman indeed fell into deep thought. She knitted her brows and murmured,


    "Vice President Tian''s mistress is a United Front spy?"


    "She helped the United Front install eavesdropping devices in many prominent businessmen''s communicators?"


    "These businessmen, as soon as they transport goods out of the city, are ambushed by the United Front?"


    "The female spy confessed to the case without reservation, but claimed that her involvement with Vice President Tian was entirely accidental?"


    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and said seriously, "Qiu Tu, this case is a bit complicated."


    "The people involved are also sensitive. If possible, I''d suggest it''s best you don''t get involved with this case."


    Qiu Tu felt a surge in his heart upon hearing Qin Shuman''s advice.


    But now... it wasn''t about whether he wanted to get involved or not. The case had implicated him.


    Thinking this, he gave a wry smile and spread his hands, "I don''t want to, but I''m the main suspect."


    Qin Shuman looked at him with a puzzled expression, "You are the main suspect?"


    Qiu Tu nodded and said helplessly, "I didn''t get to finish earlier. There''s more to the case."


    "Last night, I was in charge of interrogating the female spy."


    "And just now, the female spy died in the Guard Room, likely silenced." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yan Chen is furious and wants a thorough investigation. All of us who had contact with the female spy are listed as the main suspects."


    "What''s more troublesome is that last night, I used Cataclysmic treasures outside the interrogation room..."


    ----


    Thanks to the "KAWABUNGA" boss for the 100,000 reward! Congratulations to the boss on becoming the Alliance Hierarch of our book! Boss, you''re awesome!

 Chapter 71 - 63: Cataclysmic Treasure: Cursed Reproduction Agent (7k words, subscribe!)

    Upon saying this, Qiu Tu also looked helpless, "So... I really can''t clear my name even if I were to dive into the Yellow River."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s expression couldn''t help but turn grave.


    She took a deep breath and said earnestly, "Don''t worry just yet. I will definitely help you."


    What Qiu Tu needed was precisely these words from Qin Shuman.


    He timely added, "My friend told me that this matter has a big impact, involving Vice President Tian and several members of the municipal committee."


    "Therefore, Yan Chen might resort to exceptional measures." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu probed, "Do you know what exceptional measures he might use?"


    "Can these exceptional measures detect the traces of the Cataclysm Prop I used last night?"


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman pondered quietly for a while before slowly saying, "The procedure of the Investigation Bureau in investigating cases is generally fixed."


    "If I''m not guessing wrong, now that the female spy is dead, the first thing they will do is to have an experienced forensic doctor to examine and dissect the body to determine the cause of death."


    "And if the cause of death is identified by dissecting and examining the body, then they will determine the range of suspects according to the cause of death."


    "If the cause of death is not found through dissection and examination of the body, then the Investigation Bureau will proceed with the next step of Mystic Arts Inspection to see if there are any traces of Catastrophe Power on the female spy."


    "If they indeed find traces of Catastrophe Power on her, they are very likely to check everyone who has had contact with the deceased."


    "To see if these individuals exhibit traces of having used Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic treasures."


    "Of course, in addition to this, they might also report to their superiors, or request assistance from our Security Department for investigation, or even directly transfer the case to our Security Department, and so on."


    "These are all fairly typical procedures, and it really depends on what the Political Department decides."


    "But if, as your friend says, Yan Chen is preparing to use exceptional measures."


    "Then it''s very likely that he is planning to use brutal methods for a forceful investigation."


    "Inside the Investigation Bureau there is a type of banned drug called Cursed Reproduction Agent."


    "It is a Cataclysmic Potion of a not very high class but with powerful effects. It can muddle people''s thinking and spirit, causing them to relive what they have done in recent days and can be particularly used to reenact specific segments. It is often used in the interrogation of some special cases."


    "But this potion also has a significant drawback, which is that the side effects are very strong."


    "At the lightest, the user can suffer memory confusion, paralysis of half the body, and at the worst, direct death."


    "It is precisely because of such side effects that the Sanctuary has classified it as a Class C Forbidden Drug. Only a few departments authorized by the council can use this potion under special circumstances."


    "Any private use of this banned drug by anyone else would constitute an illegal act."


    After finishing Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s expression grew solemn as he asked, "So... if the forensic determination is that the female spy died from ordinary injuries."


    "Since I haven''t had any private contact with her, it''s less likely that I''m a suspect, and Yan Chen probably won''t investigate me."


    "But if the female spy died from Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysmic treasures, then it''s very likely my traces of using Cataclysmic treasures will be detected. I would become the prime suspect."


    "And if Yan Chen fails to find the murderer after a while or becomes crazed, he might use the Cursed Reproduction Agent on everyone who had contact, and then it''s quite likely I''d end up dead or crippled?"


    Qin Shuman nodded gravely.


    Silent, Qiu Tu suddenly understood the purpose behind Secretary Bai''s phone call.


    It seemed that Secretary Bai not only suspected that he might be the assassin covering his tracks but was also worried that even if he weren''t the killer, Yan Chen, in a frenzy, would indiscriminately use the Cataclysmic Potion endangering him as well.


    So... what should he do?


    Perhaps sensing the pressure in Qiu Tu''s heart, Qin Shuman gently sat in his arms, her voice soft and seductive as she said,


    "Chief Qiu~ actually... you have another choice."


    Qiu Tu looked down at her.


    Qin Shuman smiled irresistibly, "And that is to let our Security Department take over the entire case directly~"


    "With me here~ nobody can hurt you."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Looking into Qin Shuman''s eyes, Qiu Tu was briefly stunned, feeling inexplicably as though he was accepting charity?


    Chief, hungry...?


    Yet, this thought was quickly dismissed by him as soon as it flitted through his mind.


    Qin Shuman made it sound easy, and her tone was ambiguous as if she had taken advantage of him. But Qiu Tu was not deceived by her seductive gesture.


    The case of the female spy was both "related to cases involving the Anti-government Armed Forces" and a "spy case." Therefore, since the Security Department could take over the investigation, the Political Department could also conduct the investigation on its own.


    In such a situation, unless the Political Department took the initiative to ask, the Security Department was unlikely to actively intervene in the case - that would mean slapping the faces of the Political Department, Jia Shu, and Yan Chen.


    So, the only way the Security Department would want to take over this case is if Qin Shuman, without approval from above, barged into the Investigation Bureau, showed her true colors, and forcibly snatched the case away.


    In that event, Qin Shuman would not only have to endure Yan Chen''s wrath, but might also have to face the fury from the Security Department and the military.


    The reason why Qin Shuman used such an ambiguous tone when mentioning this method was actually just to make me preemptively assume that this matter would work in her favor...


    ''This woman....''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu, although somewhat touched, still patted her hand and said, "No need. Things haven''t reached that point."


    Qin Shuman was indeed deliberately misleading Qiu Tu''s thoughts, but now seeing that he wasn''t fooled, she ceased those little manipulations.


    She believed that Qiu Tu knew what he was doing, and she was willing to trust him, just as she would trust herself...


    And so, she quietly lay in Qiu Tu''s embrace, enjoying the rare moment of warmth....


    Thus, in the short span of an hour, the two went from passionate intensity upon entering the door to being heavily burdened with thoughts at their parting.


    In these chaotic times, everyone is struggling to survive, with romantic sentiments pressed deep into their hearts, yet evident in their eyes.


    As he was leaving, Qiu Tu told Qin Shuman about Yan Chen''s plan for him to become a double agent.


    Qin Shuman was not surprised, even playfully hooking her arm around Qiu Tu''s neck and asking him a charming question, "So, Chief Qiu, this double agent... are you on Director Yan''s side, or are you on my side?"


    Qiu Tu laughed and tapped her forehead, "I''m on my own side."


    Watching Qiu Tu slowly walk away, Qin Shuman gazed at his retreating figure and softly said, "Bad man...."


    After speaking, she turned back to her hotel room with a smile on her lips.


    In fact, not only was Qiu Tu faced with a mess, her situation was equally muddled: the issue of Master Qin Si''s arrangements, the problem of a mole being exposed, and the accountability from the authorities above all added to her stress....


    The bizarre event five days ago had changed too many people, too many things.


    Every time she thought about it, Qin Shuman still felt a lingering fear.


    Standing in front of the bed and looking at the body she had used for the past few days, Qin Shuman''s brows lightly furrowed.


    Though her soul had clearly returned to her own body, the soulless shell had yet to deteriorate.


    Qin Shuman reached out to touch it, finding the body warm and soft.


    She placed her hand on the left side of the chest and could even feel the heartbeat.


    If she didn''t know that "Qin Shuman" was already dead, she might have thought it was just a beauty sleeping quietly....


    Moreover, the fact that she returned to her body without "paying" any "price" made her find it incredible¡ªshe hadn''t even used the Cataclysm Prop she had prepared. This raised a daring thought in Qin Shuman''s mind... could she possess "Qin Shuman''s" body again?


    Would such possession be like before, where she could release it at any time, or would it be like these past few days, trapped within that body?


    And what secrets lay hidden within this "Qin Shuman" body and that "Qiu Tu" body?


    What on earth had happened five days ago?


    Qin Shuman felt as though new mysteries were cropping up before her....


    ....


    Leaving the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu drove home.


    This meeting with Qin Shuman was very fruitful.


    Though he hadn''t found a solution to the crisis, it had... given Qiu Tu a clearer understanding of how events might unfold.


    This gave him reassurance, allowing him to adjust his strategy according to any shifts in the situation.


    Of course, the biggest reason he could refuse Qin Shuman''s help was that his Crisis Intuition hadn''t been triggered!


    This suggested that, at least for now, his life wasn''t in danger, and things were unlikely to deteriorate to the worst-case scenario.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu relaxed quite a bit.


    But in his relaxation, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a bit chagrined: he''d lost out tonight!


    He''d shared a bed with two "Qin Shumans", and yet he hadn''t made a move on either!


    Indeed, tonight''s "hidden benefit" had been wasted!


    Feeling this annoyance, he arrived back at Old Alley Street and parked beside the dirty, disorderly roadside. Qiu Tu turned off the car and was just about to get out when suddenly, "tap tap tap..." his car window was softly knocked on.


    He looked up in surprise and saw Liu Fuping, the girl who had gone missing for a day, standing outside his car window....

 Chapter 72 - 64: Astonishing Loyalty (7k Subscriptions Please!)

    Seeing Liu Fuping outside the car window, Qiu Tu raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised.


    After all, it was already 12 o''clock at night.


    In these troubled times, the night was very dangerous, and without a car, a beautiful woman traveling alone deep into the night was not a simple matter.


    So, unless there was a special circumstance, Liu Fuping would not take the risk of coming out to meet him.


    And thinking of special circumstances... Qiu Tu''s heart suddenly stirred: Could it be... she also knew about the female spy''s death?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu smiled at Liu Fuping, then opened the car door and got out.


    Liu Fuping was wearing a green knitted sweater tonight. The sweater was loose, with a large, slightly skewed neckline, allowing one to see the black strap of her lingerie on her fair left shoulder, and if one looked down, there was a cleavage that could bury a person.


    Liu Fuping noticed something was off with Qiu Tu''s gaze, looked down at herself, and made no adjustments. Instead, she even clasped her hands under her chest, making herself even more prominent.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. Look, this is the advantage of a married woman, she always cooperates tacitly with you...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu leaned against the car, lit a cigarette, and teased nonchalantly, "Sister Liu, are you coming to see me so late because you can''t sleep alone?"


    "Hohoho~" Liu Fuping laughed, shaking her whole body, creating waves of motion.


    After laughing, she put her hand on Qiu Tu''s arm, and with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, she said, "Is that what you''re coveting, Chief?"


    But Qiu Tu''s smile remained as he replied, "Isn''t it Sister Liu who has always been coveting me?"


    The two of them looked at each other, their smiles growing brighter, a sense of ambiguity as if "you know my unscrupulous intentions, I understand your feigned modesty."


    And just as the atmosphere was getting more and more romantic,


    suddenly, a horrific scream of "Ah!" echoed between the densely packed buildings on Old Alley Street.


    Followed by a "thud!" as something like wet mud slapped against the wall.


    Liu Fuping was startled, locking her neck to look in that direction.


    Qiu Tu casually flicked the cigarette ash, "It''s nothing, probably just some unfortunate soul who couldn''t handle the pressure and jumped from a building."


    Liu Fuping immediately breathed a sigh of relief.


    In this chaotic world, human life was cheap, and nobody cared, except... the group of urban sanitation workers that City Hall had just recruited.


    However, because of that interruption, the romantic atmosphere was broken. Liu Fuping finally started talking about serious matters.


    She gathered her hair and moved closer to Qiu Tu, whispering, "Chief. I heard some news. Yin Caimei is dead."


    The name was somewhat unfamiliar, and Qiu Tu almost didn''t react in time, "Who?"


    Liu Fuping said, "The female spy we interrogated last night."


    Qiu Tu "Oh~" in understanding. It matched his own intelligence.


    Liu Fuping earnestly observed Qiu Tu''s expression, noting that he didn''t seem surprised, and her expression became complicated.


    She continued to probe, "Chief, her identity is quite special, and this case involves a wide range of issues."


    "I''m worried that the minister will be furious when this gets out, and all of us involved in the interrogation won''t be able to escape the consequences; we may be implicated."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, laughed, flicked away the cigarette butt, and reassured her, "Don''t worry, the minister won''t."


    Liu Fuping didn''t understand where Qiu Tu''s confidence came from and was taken aback for a moment.


    Then, the next second, she heard Qiu Tu say, "Because the one who''s furious is the Bureau Chief. He''s already gotten involved in this matter."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s body shivered noticeably, and she appeared astonished, "The Bureau Chief got involved?"


    Qiu Tu put his arm around her and pulled her into his embrace, the married woman''s body soft and comfortable to hold. Then he replied casually, "Yes."


    "Isn''t it very normal for the Bureau Chief to get involved in such a sensitive issue?"


    After finishing, Qiu Tu gazed at her, probed with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, "Sister Liu, you''re not the murderer, what are you nervous about?"


    Liu Fuping swallowed and said softly, "Chief, you don''t know the methods of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Once the Bureau Chief gets involved, the whole affair will become incredibly complicated."


    Pausing, she continued, "The Bureau Chief getting involved means he doesn''t trust the Political Department. And this will provoke the anger of the minister."


    "And the minister... he''s a pervert!"


    "His interrogations never aim to extract information but to take pleasure in torture."


    "As long as someone is suspected, whether they are the real criminal or not, they won''t come out alive from his hands."


    "Our Interrogation Section was cultivated by him personally, so we are too familiar with his methods."


    "With the gravity of the situation and the Bureau Chief''s involvement, it''s very likely he will just detain us internal staff first and torture us, to vent his rage and force confessions."


    By the end, her complexion was pale, her voice trembling slightly, "I haven''t even learned the basics from him, and few prisoners can survive. There''s even less chance for us."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a second, then smoothly asked, "So, you think we should find the murderer ahead of time?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu finally got to the content she was most interested in, Liu Fuping nodded eagerly.


    She spoke softly, "We must find the murderer in advance, to clear ourselves of suspicion. Only by doing so can we avoid being implicated."


    Hearing the words of the beautiful young woman in his embrace, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows twitched slightly, and he watched her quietly, his gaze somewhat inexplicable.


    The beautiful young woman felt a strange look from him, then touched her own face, puzzled, she inquired, "Chief, what''s wrong?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and glanced once again at Liu Fuping''s astonishing loyalty.


    [Liu Fuping, Loyalty: 13]


    Then, smiling, he said, "It''s nothing. I just thought Sister Liu looked especially beautiful tonight, and I got lost in thought for a moment."


    Although he complimented her with his mouth, Qiu Tu''s mind was rapidly analyzing the matter of Liu Fuping''s loyalty.


    Just like the experience he had confirmed in the Interrogation Section before: without the influence of personal interests, most subordinates should have a loyalty above 30 towards him.


    This wasn''t due to Qiu Tu''s personal influence, but rather the natural oppression from superiors to subordinates under the strict system of the violent organization.


    After all, if Qiu Tu hadn''t made any mistakes, opposing him would be tantamount to opposing the entire violent organization.


    And yet, Liu Fuping had a loyalty towards Qiu Tu that didn''t even reach the basic 30 points. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This could only mean three possibilities.


    One, Qiu Tu''s teasing in the past two days made her dislike him, reducing her loyalty.


    Two, she was part of a faction within the Investigation Bureau, and that faction was hostile or disliked Qiu Tu.


    Three, she... was a spy.


    All three scenarios could lead to her loyalty dropping below "30," the minimum threshold, causing her to disobey Qiu Tu''s orders overtly and covertly.


    Especially the third possibility.


    If she were really a spy, then the likelihood of her being the murderer also greatly increased.


    But... what Qiu Tu couldn''t understand was: if she really was the murderer, why would she come to see him?


    Was she planning to frame him? Was it a case of a thief crying "Stop thief"? Or did she intend to deflect the blame elsewhere?


    ''Things are getting interesting...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also probed, "Sister Liu, who do you think the murderer is?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment before whispering, "I think it might be Wang Xi."


    Qiu Tu went "Oh?" and asked with interest, "Why?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "He''s a Pharmacist, responsible for dispensing interrogation potions."


    "So, he could easily add some lethal drugs to the normal interrogation potion without anyone noticing."


    Qiu Tu went "Oh," as if in deep thought.


    After a moment, as if something suddenly occurred to him, he looked sharply at Liu Fuping, then feigned surprise and said, "In that case, Sister Liu, you''re also quite suspicious."


    "After all, you were the interrogator for that female spy. During the interrogation, you too could have poisoned her without anyone noticing."


    "For example, hiding poison in the crevice of your nails, then applying it to her wounds during execution."


    Liu Fuping wasn''t frightened by Qiu Tu; her face fell as she admitted, "It''s precisely because I know I''m one of the most suspected that I''m so anxious."


    "If I were like you, Chief, having never made contact with that prisoner, I would be sleeping without worries."


    Qiu Tu looked earnestly at Liu Fuping''s expression, finding no faults...


    So he continued to probe, "Then, Sister Liu, what brings you to me tonight?"


    "I should be one of the most suspected as well, right?"


    Liu Fuping''s response to Qiu Tu''s relentless questions showed some discomfort as she said, "I... I''m just a little panicked inside. So I wanted to consult with you, Chief, to see if we could find other clues."


    ''That''s a lie.''


    Qiu Tu sensed something off.


    Liu Fuping''s gaze clearly shifted towards the bottom right as she spoke.


    But interestingly enough, Liu Fuping''s gaze snapped back immediately after shifting to the right.


    A hint of amusement flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    ''Interesting...''


    If the gaze had just darted to the bottom right, it would have indicated Liu Fuping was lying, but nothing more could be proven.


    However, this retraction indicated that she was likely trained professionally, aware of the micro-expressions when lying, and was trying to control them. Perhaps it was lack of skill, or a fluctuation in emotion, that led to the slip.


    ''So... is the beautiful young woman in front of me a spy?''


    ''Does the Political Department actually have a spy in its midst? And is it her?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tightened his hold around Liu Fuping''s arm, pulling her closer into his embrace.


    Liu Fuping thought Qiu Tu had some ulterior motives at first, so she initially struggled politely, but soon gave up.


    Then, the next second, she felt the barrel of a gun pressed against her waist.


    With one arm, Qiu Tu encircled Liu Fuping tightly in his embrace and with the other hand, he pointed the gun at her.


    Then he laid his head on Liu Fuping''s shoulder and asked in a whisper close to her ear, "Sister Liu, have you ever considered that you might be the person I suspect the most?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping froze completely...

 Chapter 73 - 65: Launching the Loyalty Game (7k Subscriptions Please!)

    ```


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu became even more certain in his heart. He smiled and asked, "What''s the matter? Is there a problem with my suspicion?" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In just that one second, Liu Fuping also recovered.


    She obviously wanted to continue pretending, so she twisted in Qiu Tu''s arms and gently pounded his shoulder, coquettishly saying, "Commander, stop teasing~ I''m discussing serious matters with you~"


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu "haha" laughed twice, then slid his hand holding the gun up from her slender waist, over the profound hollow, her fair neck, all the way to her chin.


    With the muzzle of the gun, he lifted Liu Fuping''s chin and looked into her beautiful eyes, speaking softly,


    "Sister Liu, I''m not messing around either."


    "You might have misunderstood me due to my image all this time. Thinking I''m just a rogue who got into the Interrogation Section through connections."


    "But actually... I do have some skills of my own."


    "Not many, unfortunately... but your flaw was too big."


    After he finished speaking, Qiu Tu turned off the safety with one hand and asked the final question, "Tell me, Sister Liu, who are you working for? Why did you come to see me tonight?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu was not joking but actually intending to take action against her, Liu Fuping immediately struggled to free herself from Qiu Tu''s restraint.


    The result was that she didn''t realize until she struggled that Qiu Tu''s body was as solid as steel, locking her firmly in place, unable to move at all.


    Her face didn''t show it, but her body secretly exerted more strength.


    But what was more frightening was that no matter how much strength she used, Qiu Tu seemed to feel nothing and bore it all.


    Liu Fuping was stunned. Although she was not skilled in strength, she was not someone who could be easily restrained by an ordinary man.


    Now, it felt not like she was being held in a man''s arms but was bitten by a great beast!


    The power was so strong it made her despair!


    At this moment, feeling her struggle, Qiu Tu laughed as well, "Sister Liu not pretending anymore?"


    Liu Fuping, seeing that she couldn''t get away from Qiu Tu, could only give up struggling.


    But even so, her "professionalism" still made her force a smile and said defiantly, "Commander, I really don''t know what you''re talking about, please let me go...."


    Originally, Liu Fuping had no hope when she said this.


    After all... Qiu Tu''s sudden turnaround tonight had proven her misjudgment about Qiu Tu: the person in front of her was not an ignorant rogue at all, but a hunter lurking in the shadows!


    Who knew, just when she was in despair, Qiu Tu actually let her go....


    This move threw Liu Fuping off.


    She stood there, her beautiful eyes dazed as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu, while putting away the gun, asked with a smile, "What''s the matter? Sister Liu, do you miss my embrace?"


    Liu Fuping realized her own lapse. She reached up to adjust her hair, giving Qiu Tu a complex look, and couldn''t help but ask, "Why?"


    Qiu Tu responded casually while leaning on the car,


    "If I''ve seen through your identity, does it matter whether you admit it or not?"


    "We''re all in the same boat, there''s no need to push things to the extreme. Maybe in the future, I''ll fall into your hands and be begging you for mercy."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping silently stared at him.


    After a long moment, she said softly, "I''m not the murderer. I came to you to actually see if you were the murderer."


    "When I told you about the female spy''s death, you didn''t show any surprise, I thought you might really be the murderer."


    "Later, I realized your calmness probably meant you already knew the news."


    "And since you weren''t flustered by my probing, it''s highly likely you''re not the killer."


    "So, for the time being, I''ve excluded you from the list of suspects."


    When she finished, she stepped backward out of Qiu Tu''s attack range.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu really didn''t intend to harm her, she slowly turned around, ready to leave.


    But as she took her first step, she immediately drew it back.


    With her back to Qiu Tu, she said softly, "I can''t let my identity be exposed, so I must find the murderer in advance to avoid this matter affecting me."


    "Sorry about tonight...."


    After that, she didn''t linger, striding away from Old Alley Street.


    Watching the beautiful young woman leaving, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face grew wider.


    Sometimes, controlling a person doesn''t mean you have to force them relentlessly; a balance of give and take can often achieve the desired result more effectively.


    Look, by simply sparing Liu Fuping for a moment, not only did he immediately gain an ally for the investigation, but he also got a lovely scapegoat...


    The case hadn''t blown up yet, and even if he arrested her, it would only involve his own efforts.


    Better to give her freedom first, let her do some investigating and see if there''s any unexpected gain.


    Even if she doesn''t root out the murderer, he could reveal her identity when the case blows up. By then, she would instantly become a perfect shield, buying a few more days.


    If she runs, she''s the criminal.


    If she doesn''t run, she''s the spare tire scapegoat.


    And once the case is over, well... Madam, you certainly don''t want those above you to find out about your spy identity, do you?


    Qiu Tu felt that no matter how things developed, he could easily maximize her value.


    ''This isn''t a bad move.''


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this.


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +8]


    Qiu Tu paused, then laughed.


    Heh... it''s not just not bad, it''s an overwhelming win....


    ```

 Chapter 74 - 65: Launching the Loyalty Game (7k Subscriptions Please!)_2

    .....


    After a day of experimentation, Qiu Tu had gained a rough understanding of how Loyalty could be increased or decreased.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, when Loyalty was relatively low, it could approximate Favorability.


    Simply put, the more subordinates liked their superior, the more obedient they would be.


    At this time, subordinates obeyed their superiors solely because of the latter''s higher position.


    But once Loyalty reached above 60, it was no longer just about favorability, but a kind of Trust Level.


    The more subordinates trusted you, the more they listened to you.


    At this time, subordinates no longer followed orders simply because of position, but out of personal trust: trust that he could lead them to victory, that he could ensure their safety, that he could help them get promoted and wealthy, that his commands were always correct....


    And when Loyalty exceeded 80, it was completely different. This was now about the superior''s unique charm and the influence of their daily interactions.


    At that point, subordinates could be said to be the superior''s private soldiers, obeying only their commander''s orders....


    The higher the level of Loyalty, the more difficult it was to increase.


    As for the method of increasing it, it was quite simple - it was nothing other than the timeless, universal methods of winning people over: helping subordinates out of difficulties, promising them benefits, providing them with interests....


    The more moved they were, the more they believed that following you led to a bright future, the more Loyalty would increase.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but want to laugh: It seems like his action of sparing Liu Fuping earlier had really moved her....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took one more long look in the direction Liu Fuping had left, then finally headed home....


    Arriving at the foot of his apartment, Qiu Tu looked up and saw that the lights were still on in his home.


    Seeing that dim, warm light, Qiu Tu felt a sudden sense of relief: It seemed Shen Lingshuang had indeed not left... all his careful planning had not been wasted.


    With that thought, he slowly ascended the stairs. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unlocking the front door, the first thing Qiu Tu saw was Shen Lingshuang asleep on the sofa.


    The girl must have been truly exhausted. She lay there, hands clasped and resting beside her face, deeply asleep.


    Qiu Tu slowed his pace, not wanting to disturb this peaceful scene.


    After silently watching the girl for a moment, Qiu Tu quietly shut the door behind him and walked over to her, gently picking her up around the waist.


    Feeling someone lifting her, the girl immediately started struggling. At this moment, Qiu Tu softly said, "It''s me. Go back to sleep."


    Perhaps there was something genuinely comforting about Qiu Tu''s voice, because upon hearing him, the girl actually fell asleep again in his arms....


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled, then carried the girl into the house.


    The inside and outside of the house were cleaned spotlessly by the girl, even the bed sheets were changed, making her look like a hardworking and dutiful country maid.


    Qiu Tu gently placed her on the bed, and then went to wash up in the small bathroom.


    After freshening up, Qiu Tu turned off the light, took off his overcoat, and lay down beside the girl.


    With one arm around the girl and the other behind his head, Qiu Tu''s mind was free of any distractions.


    He lay with his eyes open, looking at the ceiling, quietly contemplating the murderer who had killed the female spy.


    Liu Fuping''s unexpected visit tonight, although revealing her mole identity, had also led Qiu Tu to "basically" exclude her from suspicion.


    Liu Fuping''s behavior was entirely in line with how a mole would act when fearing "collateral damage" or "stray hits."


    Hmm... Qiu Tu, who also harbored secrets and feared ''stray hits'', could very well understand that state.


    Excluding Liu Fuping, there were only four other people with substantial suspicion: two agents from the operations team, the recorder Song Qing, and the Pharmacist Wang Xi.


    Although Liu Fuping came with ulterior motives, her analysis was not wrong; among the other three, Wang Xi indeed had a significantly higher level of suspicion.


    ''So, is there any way to test Wang Xi?'' Qiu Tu pondered.


    As he thought, Qiu Tu suddenly remembered the new Golden Finger [Loyalty Game] he had acquired.


    The Loyalty Game had two effects. In addition to passively indicating changes in Loyalty, there was also an active effect: initiating the Loyalty Game.


    This "[Start Loyalty Game]" requires a threshold of loyalty points.


    Among Qiu Tu''s subordinates at the Investigation Bureau, not a single one could initiate the game.


    It wasn''t until he returned home tonight and saw Ah-Tai, Eagle, and a few others that he realized the game could be started.


    At that time, he briefly glanced over the game''s introduction, and it vaguely seemed to be a "[combat game]," where winning could yield information, loyalty points, and other rewards?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu silently invoked in his heart, "[Start Loyalty Game]."


    Indeed, the next second, a row of prompts appeared before him.


    [Loyalty Game initiation threshold: 60, 90.]


    [First game initiators include: Ah-Tai, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Monkey....., Shen Lingshuang.]


    [Second game initiators include: Ah-Tai, Eagle.]


    Qiu Tu didn''t aim too high and chose the first game first.


    Immediately, the introduction for the first game popped up.


    [As a boss, you can designate a subordinate with a loyalty above 60 to "attack" another subordinate every night.]


    [The two will engage in fierce combat in a dreamscape. If the attacker wins, you will receive memory fragments, intelligence, and loyalty points as rewards related to the attacked subordinate.]


    [If the attacked subordinate has special talents, there is also a chance to obtain related Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysm Props, etc....]


    After reading the game introduction, Qiu Tu was instantly invigorated!


    This game is strong!


    Not only can you get loyalty points, but also memory fragments and intelligence?


    That alone would have sufficed. But if any of his subordinates turned out to be Cataclysmics, who knows, he might get some precious Cataclysmic Materials and Cataclysmic treasures. He could rapidly enhance his strength.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t delay any further and tried to initiate the first game.


    The selection of participants for the game was unsurprising.


    On his side was Ah-Tai, a burly man over one meter ninety, covered in sinewy muscle.


    The enemy, of course, was the subordinate Qiu Tu intended to investigate tonight: Wang Xi.


    Once the game participants were selected, the next second, a tiny screen popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    On the screen, Ah-Tai''s pixel character was beating up on Wang Xi''s pixel character with gusto.


    As for why it was possible to tell them apart...


    Well, aside from the pixel characters bearing an uncanny resemblance to their respective appearance features, it was also because... Ah-Tai held a tiny hammer in his hand, while Wang Xi was embracing a medical injector nearly his own height....


    So, in front of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai''s pixel character was "ding ding dang dang" hammering away at Wang Xi''s pixel character, while Wang Xi''s pixel character, getting hammered, occasionally jabbed Ah-Tai with the massive injector.


    At first, Qiu Tu watched the pixel characters'' battle with great interest, but it didn''t take long for him to find... that the scene was almost in a constant loop, without any change.


    Eventually, he grew tired of watching it. He simply turned off the game and went to sleep, cuddling Shen Lingshuang, the soft girl.


    However, what he didn''t know was that no sooner had he fallen asleep than Ah-Tai''s pixel character let out a roar, his tiny hammer struck 18 times on Wang Xi''s head and burst forth with an item shaped like an envelope.


    And Wang Xi''s pixel character not only looked bruised and battered, but also had a prompt above his head that read, "[Loyalty +3]..."


    ...


    The azure moon hung high above the pitch-black firmament, casting a deep and serene glow.


    In its light, the myriad crumbling buildings of Xinjie City cast dancing shadows that mingled with the darkness below, forming an eerie and mysterious tapestry.


    And so, the night passed without an incident.


    Early next morning, Qiu Tu was awakened by a scream...


    ----

 Chapter 75 - 66: Harvest - Memory Fragment (4k words)

    Hearing the scream that pierced the entire room, Qiu Tu groggily woke up.


    He slowly opened his eyes and looked over at Shen Lingshuang.


    Then he saw Shen Lingshuang hugging the blanket, shrinking at the edge of the bed, staring at him in horror.


    Qiu Tu yawned and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Shen Lingshuang glared at Qiu Tu, "How did you end up in bed with me?"


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then innocently pointed around his cramped home, "Where else? There''s only one bed here, and the sofa is so small, I can''t sleep on the floor, can I?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang stared blankly for a moment, then snorted and turned her head aside, "Well, you brought this on yourself, don''t expect me to take responsibility for you!"


    After saying that, she pulled her pants and walked away.


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Now it was Qiu Tu''s turn to be stunned.


    Wait a minute, did he get up wrong? Why didn''t things feel like how he imagined?


    Thinking along these lines, he paused and then lifted the blanket to check; his clothes were intact with no signs of being tampered with.


    He looked up again at Shen Lingshuang, who was heading to the living room. The girl''s ears were a bit red, and her complexion seemed unnatural.


    Qiu Tu... understood.


    She really is a tsundere, isn''t she? Her mouth is definitely tough.


    But... maybe I should tell her that the era of being a tsundere has passed?


    ...


    After silently mocking the situation for a while in his mind, Qiu Tu lay back in bed and realized he couldn''t fall asleep again.


    Instead of trying to get some more sleep, he decided to check his gains from the game last night.


    He called up the panel of the "Loyalty Game" and the first thing that caught Qiu Tu''s eye was a "Game Over" screen.


    In the screen, Ah-Tai''s pixel figure was holding a tiny hammer, with hands on his hips, laughing uproariously towards the sky. Meanwhile, Wang Xi''s pixel figure sat on the ground with a swollen nose and bruised face, crying while clutching his head.


    Along with this image, a package gleaming with golden light appeared in the middle of the screen.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew last night''s game was likely won by Ah-Tai, and that package must be the reward he had earned.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu didn''t delay and mentally clicked on the package.


    The next second, several prompts appeared before him.


    [Victory in Loyalty Game, reward earned.]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +5]


    [Wang Xi Memory Fragment (Short) +1]


    After reading the game prompts, Qiu Tu''s eyes brightened slightly, feeling the rewards were quite good.


    Not only had he gained some loyalty, but he also obtained a memory fragment.


    If this memory fragment showed the process of Wang Xi''s murder, then Qiu Tu felt he could close the case now.


    Thinking this, he tried clicking on the [Memory Fragment] to see what was inside.


    As he clicked, the next second, Qiu Tu felt a darkness before his eyes, and then he seemed to appear in a small room.


    In the room was a stranger, dressed in a black suit, with bright red-dyed hair, wearing a clown mask.


    The stranger was holding a shotgun, cleaning it.


    After cleaning it, he tossed the shotgun to "Qiu Tu," then picked up another shotgun, grinned at "Qiu Tu" and said,


    "Tomorrow, we''ll rob the Pharmacy. The plan is...you take care of the clerks and customers inside."


    "I''ll handle the security guard and the responding agents."


    The scene went black again after this. When Qiu Tu came back to his senses, he found himself back in bed.


    Qiu Tu sat on the bed, stunned for a while, then in his mind a myriad of expletives stampeded!


    Damn! The task force I''m in really is full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers!


    Out of four well-known members, one is a double-dealer, one a spy, and another... a hardcore criminal?!


    Qiu Tu recalled the content that appeared in the scene just now, then quickly searched his original memory.


    Soon, he found relevant information.


    Half a month ago, an official Pharmacy on Xiafang Street had been robbed.


    The robbers not only stole hundreds of Silver Yuan worth of medicines and herbs but also brutally killed 2 security guards, 3 clerks, 3 customers, as well as 6 temporary agents and 2 formal agents from the Investigation Bureau, totaling 16 people...


    Because the incident was so serious, the Investigation Bureau received a severe reprimand from the Municipal Committee. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Public Security Bureau, where Qin Zhengguang worked, also faced serious disciplinary action within the Investigation Bureau and was demanded to solve the case within a limited time.


    But...in an era without surveillance cameras and DNA testing technology, cracking the case wasn''t so easy.


    Moreover, after the robbers killed all the staff and security personnel, they left, leading to a large crowd of onlookers rushing into the store to loot, nearly obliterating all evidence from the scene.


    Therefore, to this day, the case remained unsolved.


    To his surprise... this major case was actually pulled by Wang Xi, the demure and docile Pharmacist?


    With this realization, Qiu Tu was somewhat astonished.


    Indeed, you never know what your colleagues will do after work.


    After silently mocking the situation for a while in his mind, Qiu Tu also quickly analyzed the information revealed by the memory fragment.


    First, it confirmed the contrast in Wang Xi''s identity: a hardcore criminal.


    This identity proved that Wang Xi wasn''t as plain and ordinary as he appeared, but rather someone on the fringes of darkness.


    Secondly, Wang Xi seemed to belong to a small group or organization.


    From the images in the memory, he was taking orders from a strange man wearing a clown mask, implying he wasn''t the leader of that small group or organization.

 Chapter 76 - 66: Harvest - Memory Fragment (4k words)_2

    Moreover, this small group clearly isn''t strong. If they were strong enough, they wouldn''t have robbed a pharmacy.


    In the end, it''s very likely that the main source of this small group''s funding comes from "prohibited drugs." And these "prohibited drugs" were probably produced by Wang Xi after he finished work.


    After all, there are so many other stores that are equally less dangerous and yet more profitable, which they didn''t rob, instead choosing the pharmacy. Obviously, they have a way to make these drugs more valuable.


    That is, by processing the drugs a second time, turning them into "prohibited drugs" for resale.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s gaze couldn''t help but become more profound: The main direction of illegal drugs actually points to the anti-government armed forces.


    Could it be that Wang Xi has made contact with organizations like the United Front and other anti-government armed forces because of this? And did he kill that female spy for the money?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt that maybe today he could really test Wang Xi¡ªif he was still around, that is....


    After making this decision, as Qiu Tu sat on the bed, he didn''t feel too happy.


    For some reason, he vaguely felt that something about this matter was not quite right.


    He silently analyzed the several suspects in the case:


    Liu Fuping doesn''t need mentioning; he met them last night and has basically ruled out the suspicion.


    Next was Song Qing. This girl, whom Qiu Tu had been in contact with for two days, seemed like a girl who lacked a bit of commonsense, came from a good background, and had a distinct spring in her step that was rare in times of chaos. She also didn''t quite fit the profile of a murderer.


    As for Wang Xi, there was indeed some suspicion. Qiu Tu was indeed planning to test him.


    But.... Upon further thought, the possibility of the United Front hiring killers didn''t seem very high.


    After all, how would the United Front know that Wang Xi was the pharmacist interrogating that female spy?


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, the interrogation last night seemed to be a last-minute arrangement by Jia Shu to trap him, and no one could have known in advance.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu found the matter more interesting.


    If none of these three were the killer, could the murderer be one of the two service personnel? Or perhaps another officer who had access to the female spy?


    Somewhat inexplicably, Qiu Tu felt there was a larger conspiracy behind this matter....


    ....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu quietly analyzed the case,


    In the military, within a secretive office,


    Qin Shuman, dressed in a green military uniform, stood straight in front of a desk with her eyes level, not looking anywhere but straight ahead.


    Behind the desk sat a tall man, his forehead full and broad, his face angular, expression somewhat bland, but his eyes radiated a ruthless and merciless gaze.


    He sat behind the desk, holding a pen, while looking at the report in front of him, clicking his tongue twice in disapproval.


    Then he looked up at Qin Shuman with a somewhat cold smile, "Rain Butterfly, looking at your case report, I can''t even bring myself to write my signature."


    "For the sake of Old Fourth Qin, you lost a key informant we had placed close to Yan Chen."


    "And to top it off, in order to successfully escort Old Fourth Qin to safety, you had the Investigation Department clean up the mess, directly exposing our Security Department to Yan Chen."


    "In just one day!"


    "Just a single day, and our insiders in the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau have been pretty much completely uprooted!"


    As he spoke, the man tossed the report into Qin Shuman''s face, "With such a failure, you still have the nerve to ask for my signature!?"


    The fluttering papers grazed Qin Shuman''s delicate face, but she continued to stare straight ahead, her expression and demeanor unchanged, allowing the cold report to slap against her face and fall to the ground....


    Seeing this, the man calmed down slightly. He coldly watched Qin Shuman and issued an ultimatum, "I don''t care how you do it, within a week, I want you to rebuild our connection in the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau! Restore our critical control over the Bureau''s key intelligence!"


    "In a big case like the murder of Vice President Tian''s mistress, we didn''t have any inside information!"


    "As of now, we''re totally in the dark about how this case is progressing and what has happened!"


    "This is a gross dereliction of duty on your part as the head of the Investigation Department!"


    By the end, the man''s voice softened, but the coldness within it was undiminished, "If you can''t do it, then prepare to face a military court...."


    "Yes!" Qin Shuman snapped to attention and saluted sharply!


    Seeing Qin Shuman accept the order, the man''s expression eased somewhat.


    He grunted deeply, then continued, "And the Qin Family matter."


    "Since you''ve paid such a high price to bring the person back, don''t let him go easily."


    "The Qin Family, starting from the previous generation, has been plotting their moves in the Sanctuary ahead of time. They not only got to know Yan Chen and Jiang Shigang (Commissioner Jiang) in advance but also continued to expand their influence in both political and business spheres."


    "As a result, they are now entangled with the United Front, which is obviously a problem!"


    "So, keep investigating! Get to the bottom of this!"


    "I want to see what is really hidden in the murky waters of the Qin Family!"


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Investigation Bureau. The dimly lit office of the Bureau Chief.


    Yan Chen sat comfortably behind a large desk, seemingly content, without any of the rage.... mentioned by Secretary Bai.


    He leaned back in his chair, struck a match, and lit the cigarette in his mouth. As he gently shook out the flame on the match, he asked in a low voice, "How is the progress?"


    Upon hearing his question, the person standing in front of him smiled brilliantly¡ªit was none other than Jia Shu.


    He adjusted the gold-framed glasses on his nose and said with a smile, "Bureau Chief, the progress is very smooth."


    He continued, "Taking advantage of the opportunity provided by the Security Department, we took the chance to pull out six moles that they had planted around us."


    "The Security Department made the first move, so by acting this way, no one can find fault with us."


    "After removing those few moles, I used the death of Vice President Tian''s lover to release some trial information outward, successfully locking down a group of suspected spies."


    "After the act we put on last night, I''ve recorded all the individuals who showed unusual activities and am now meticulously comparing them."


    "However, there are a few people that I really did not expect...."


    Upon hearing his words, Yan Chen voiced an "Oh?" and lifted his head to ask, "Who?"


    A trace of cold light flickered in the eyes behind Jia Shu''s glasses as he said with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, "For instance.... Secretary Bai."


    "After learning the news, he actually made a call to Qiu Tu right away."


    "I am very curious about what exactly he said to Qiu Tu in that ten-second call."


    "And then there''s a subordinate from our Political Department whom I had high hopes for."


    "I didn''t expect she would receive the information too and, in her haste, went to meet with a few relevant persons, like.... Qiu Tu."


    Listening to Jia Shu''s words, Yan Chen took drags from his cigarette and asked with interest, "What about Qiu Tu?"


    Upon hearing this, the smile faded significantly from Jia Shu''s face, and he said thoughtfully, "Qiu Tu really surprised me."


    "Last night he went to the Milan Grand Hotel. He must have gone to meet with the Security Department as we arranged."


    "During the meet, he received a call from Secretary Bai. Afterward, there were no abnormal actions."


    "Then, on his way home, he encountered that subordinate of mine, and the two of them talked briefly, tangled for a moment, and then the matter ended."


    "Overall, he seemed very normal...."


    Yan Chen nodded slightly upon hearing this.


    Then he gently tapped his fingers on the armrests of his chair and said softly,


    "In order to quickly and comprehensively take control of Xinjie City''s order, in just one year, our Bureau expanded from a few dozen core personnel to over ten thousand."


    "During this process, our control over personnel wasn''t so strict."


    "We''ve been infiltrated by too many informants and moles from various forces."


    "Now that Xinjie City''s order is initially established, we finally have the time to screen the personnel within the Bureau."


    "Who is truly loyal to us and usable, who is problematic and needs to be removed; we must distinguish carefully...."


    "This is a rare opportunity. We must grasp it well."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly, "Yes."


    After discussing this matter, Yan Chen added, "Regarding the death of Vice President Tian''s lover, what is your take on it?"


    ---- S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Today, I was organizing the outline for the latter part of the story, so I only updated one chapter of 4000 words for now. It should return to 7000 words tomorrow. Don''t forget to keep up with the reading~

 Chapter 77 - 67: Yan Chen is Satisfied +9 (7k for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Yan Chen''s inquiry, Jia Shu obviously hesitated for a moment.


    He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on the bridge of his nose, then said somewhat ambiguously,


    "Bureau Chief, I think... how that woman died isn''t important. What matters is what her death will bring us."


    As he said this, he paused before adding, "For example, her death could put many people at ease."


    "Despite the Municipal Committee''s harsh criticism of our Investigation Bureau, who knows how many members had a good night''s sleep last night."


    "For our Investigation Bureau, and for you, this is not necessarily a bad thing."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen fell into deep thought.


    After quietly pondering for a while, Yan Chen looked up at Jia Shu, his expression half-smiling, "It seems you have quite a few other thoughts about this case?"


    Jia Shu smiled and replied, "Bureau Chief, recent cases have shown me how important a good information surveillance system and a city-wide monitoring network are."


    "And... that is something only Vice President Tian''s side can accomplish."


    Yan Chen once again fell into silence, then tapped his fingers lightly on the armrest of his chair before softly saying, "You make the decision on this matter."


    "But we need to close the case. Don''t let it become an unsolved mystery."


    Jia Shu hurriedly bowed slightly with a radiant smile, "Rest assured, Bureau Chief, I''ll handle it."


    After finishing this topic, Jia Shu thought today''s conversation was over. He straightened his back, ready to take his leave.


    But just then, Yan Chen suddenly spoke again.


    He slowly asked, "By the way, the team of Political Department Investigators who were sent to the Qin Family the other day, are they still being held?"


    Possibly not expecting Yan Chen to bring this up suddenly, Jia Shu was taken aback. Then he nodded, "Yes."


    "The team from the Special Service Department has been demoted one rank for their poor performance and sent back to the Special Service Department for retraining."


    "As for the team from the Political Department, I thought it''d be good for them to learn a lesson, so they''ve been kept locked up in the detention room awaiting punishment."


    At this, Yan Chen hummed in acknowledgment before saying, "I think that since Qiu Tu is no longer a suspect, we should still cultivate his talents."


    "He was in charge of that operation and is now the Deputy Head of the Interrogation Section. Let him be responsible for the review and punishment of this team."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Shu was stunned for a second, then looked at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen''s gaze was as still as an ancient well, as if it were just another ordinary arrangement.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu''s face also immediately displayed a brilliant smile, "Understood, Bureau Chief."


    A slight smile appeared on Yan Chen''s face as he then picked up the teacup from the table and took a sip.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu also wisely retreated to the office door, then turned and left...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, who was eating soup dumplings with Shen Lingshuang, suddenly saw two prompts flash before his eyes.


    [Yan Chen Suspicion -4, Satisfaction +9]


    [Jia Shu Suspicion -0, Satisfaction +0]


    Qiu Tu, who was biting into a dumpling, briefly froze in his actions, and a question mark slowly appeared over his head: ?


    Then... he was completely baffled.


    ...


    Shen Lingshuang was indeed a good girl.


    Though somewhat haughty, she was very good at taking care of others, and... she was also diligent.


    While Qiu Tu was in bed checking the rewards from last night''s "Loyalty Game," she had "pitter-pattered" into the bathroom, pulled up her pants after, and "clomp clomp clomp" went downstairs.


    By the time Qiu Tu had examined his "Loyalty Game" reward and was analyzing information, she had "clomp clomp clomp" come back upstairs with two baskets of soup dumplings, calling Qiu Tu to eat.


    After eating Shen Lingshuang''s dumplings, Qiu Tu washed up briefly, then, with the girl''s help, dressed in his uniform, armed himself, and set off for work.


    The two had an unspoken understanding: one did not ask why you didn''t leave, and the other did not say why she stayed. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was only during the meal that Shen Lingshuang returned all the money Qiu Tu had given her the night before.


    Qiu Tu silently pocketed the money, and that was the end of it.


    Before leaving the house, Qiu Tu also gave Shen Lingshuang two reminders.


    The first was to be careful on her own at home and to go directly to the Old Alley Street Public Security Office for help if there were any problems. He had already informed the "Monkey."


    The second was... to stop burning paper offerings and hanging his portrait! He did not want to see such "surprises" a second time!


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s blunt criticism, Shen Lingshuang''s face showed defiance, her pursed lips almost able to hang an oil pot.


    Even after Qiu Tu''s scolding, she still muttered under her breath behind him:


    "It''s still because you didn''t come home all night." "Who is a good person and doesn''t come home for a whole night?" "Must be hooking up with some woman out there," and other nonsensical mutterings.


    Qiu Tu paid no mind, turned around and gave her a flick on the head, knocking some sense into her, before heading downstairs to drive to work.


    However, after sitting in the car, Qiu Tu did not start it right away, but instead reviewed the two prompts he had received while eating the dumplings:


    [Yan Chen Suspicion -4, Satisfaction +9]


    [Jia Shu Suspicion -0, Satisfaction +0]


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was genuinely puzzled.


    Because he was truly just simply having breakfast and hadn''t done anything else.


    Why Yan Chen decreased his suspicion and increased his satisfaction towards him was a complete mystery to him.


    So, at that time, he said nothing and just quietly finished the meal with Shen Lingshuang.

 Chapter 78 - 67: Yan Chen is Satisfied +9 (7k for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    And now, alone, he finally had time to ponder what exactly was going on.


    First, he checked the "Active Prompt" explanation of the [Loyalty Game] again: "You will see the impact of your actions and words on your subordinates and superiors."


    When he first saw this definition, Qiu Tu thought it would only prompt him when there was an interaction face-to-face.


    Now it seemed that wasn''t the case.


    Even if he wasn''t in front of Yan Chen or Jia Shu, the things he had done and the words he had said seemed to influence them and give him real-time feedback.


    After figuring out how this "prompt" worked, Qiu Tu felt things were much simpler.


    That is: what exactly had he done to reduce Yan Chen''s suspicion and increase his satisfaction with him? And... Jia Shu was involved in this matter...?


    After all, without Jia Shu, it wouldn''t have been possible for the prompt to pop up with Yan Chen.


    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu started his car and sank into silent contemplation.


    In the past few days, the Municipal Committee of Xinjie City seemed to have suddenly received a large amount of financial support; the roads were being repaved, public facilities were being rebuilt, and Xinjie City had officially entered the era of infrastructure development.


    Unfortunately, these were all things that would be beneficial in the future; at least for now, because construction was everywhere, the roads were even harder to navigate.


    Qiu Tu carefully drove his car, trying his best to avoid any accidents.


    After turning past several repaved roads and passing by a few reconstructed signal towers, just as Qiu Tu was driving past a rebuilt power plant, he suddenly slammed on the brakes!


    The tires screeched madly on the worn-out road, emitting a "piercing" noise.


    Pedestrians on both sides of the road scrambled to evade: it wasn''t that they were afraid of the car exploding, but rather they feared the driver being in a bad mood, getting out, and randomly choosing a pedestrian to beat up.


    In the waste-laden Planning Area where only the rich or powerful were able to afford cars, even if they randomly assaulted pedestrians, the victims could only silently endure.


    Of course, Qiu Tu wasn''t so heartless. He had simply suddenly realized the answer to the question he had before driving!


    Why was it necessary that he had done something to make Yan Chen satisfied?


    Why couldn''t it be that he hadn''t done something, which was why Yan Chen was satisfied?


    Upon clarifying this key point, Qiu Tu''s thoughts opened up instantly.


    He felt he might have guessed the whole truth of the matter.


    First of all, Yan Chen''s satisfaction with him must be due to something Jia Shu reported.


    And what could Jia Shu have reported about him to make Yan Chen satisfied?


    His slacking off at the Investigation Bureau during the day? Flirting with female subordinates? Or leaving work right on the dot?


    Impossible!


    Therefore, the thing Jia Shu reported could only be about... what he did last night.


    Then the question was, let alone what he did last night, how did Jia Shu know about it?


    With this, things became simple: Jia Shu must have been watching him last night.


    But why would Jia Shu be watching him last night?


    Was it because he was suspicious of him?


    Qiu Tu recalled the entire conversation he had with Jia Shu yesterday, and there was no problem: this could be seen from the fact that the "suspicion" level of Jia Shu in the [Loyalty Game] hadn''t changed at all.


    Was it because of his meeting with Qin Shuman?


    But... since the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department could not afford to have a falling out, and Jia Shu couldn''t possibly sneak into the room and eavesdrop on his exchange with Qin Shuman, there was no need for surveillance.


    And aside from these two possibilities, only one significant thing happened around Qiu Tu last night that would warrant Jia Shu monitoring all the suspects: the death of Vice President Tian''s mistress.


    Having clarified the focus of the matter, what followed was simple.


    He had done nothing last night.


    After receiving Secretary Bai''s call, he didn''t flee nor did he investigate secretly.


    Meeting with Liu Fuping, he did not collaborate with her, nor did he follow her.


    And this reduced Yan Chen''s suspicion and made him satisfied.


    As the logic board got to this point, Qiu Tu had no trouble understanding the true nature of the entire affair: last night''s incident had been a trap!


    The message from last night, it was very likely a joint ruse set up by Yan Chen and Jia Shu!


    The purpose was to test the attitudes and positions of all involved parties and then root out those harboring disloyalty towards Yan Chen and the Investigation Bureau!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu finally understood something else: the source of Liu Fuping''s information.


    He had suspected Liu Fuping''s source of information last night.


    After all, Qiu Tu had only learned about the "Death of a Female Spy" through a secret tip-off from Secretary Bai. And Secretary Bai was not only Yan Chen''s right-hand man but also a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau.


    What status did Liu Fuping have to receive the same information as him?!


    And after sorting everything out, Qiu Tu suddenly realized everything: Jia Shu had secretly released the information to several lines, which was why the message had reached the scouts of various forces.


    So, anyone who had received the message last night and then acted strangely was probably under surveillance by Jia Shu.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu''s face involuntarily darkened a few shades.


    ''Such ruthless tactics.''


    ''One piece of news, fishing out a string of fish!''


    ''Last night, who knows how many moles were exposed and caught the attention of Jia Shu.''


    Upon understanding the whole ordeal, Qiu Tu wasn''t pleased.


    Because what lay before him was a cruel reality:


    He "withstood the test" and earned Yan Chen''s appreciation, meaning Secretary Bai and Liu Fuping failed the test.


    Liu Fuping was inconsequential, but Secretary Bai was one of his own, and the only high-ranking member in the Investigation Bureau he could trust.


    If something happened to him, there would be no one left to tip off Qiu Tu or guide him through confusion.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s face grew colder still.


    ''Old Bai must not have an accident!''


    With that thought, he started the car and drove while quietly contemplating how to save Secretary Bai''s fate.


    Driving like this all the way until he was close to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu finally had a rough idea.


    Looking at the scenery retreating past the car window, Qiu Tu took a deep breath, murmuring to himself softly,


    ''I still need to find the right opportunity... I hope it''s not too late.''


    .....


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau in no time.


    Arriving at the parking lot of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu stopped the car, was just about to open the door and get out when he bumped into Qin Zhengguang, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau and second son of the Qin Family, who was also just getting out of his car.


    In just two short days, Qin Zhengguang seemed to have aged quite a bit: his face not only had many more wrinkles but his eyes were also a bit darker.


    It was clear that the anxiety of the past few days had left him with little rest.


    And upon seeing Qiu Tu, his gaze became somewhat complicated.


    After all... Qiu Tu was both his "savior" and the "enemy" of the entire Qin Family...


    Without Qiu Tu initiating the investigation, the Qin brothers wouldn''t have turned on each other, the main house wouldn''t have burned down, and the Qin Family wouldn''t have been forced to rely on Yan Chen...


    So, upon seeing Qiu Tu, he first spaced out for a moment, then smiled and said, "Agent Qiu... oh, I''m sorry, I mean Chief Qiu. Have you gotten used to the Interrogation Section yet?"


    Upon seeing Qin Zhengguang, Qiu Tu was also taken aback.


    He didn''t have mixed feelings towards Qin Zhengguang.


    Seeing him reminded Qiu Tu of Master Qin Si''s wife and children.


    Even though Master Qin Si''s wife and children were in custody at the Security Department, their wealth had fallen into the hands of his own brothers.


    Tonight might be a good opportunity to take inventory, to see just how much money that old codger had made over the years....


    S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 79 - 68: Saving Secretary Bai (7k for follow-up reading!)

    As he thought this, Qiu Tu also came to his senses and replied with a smile, "Thank you for your concern, Director Qin."


    "I''m still getting accustomed to the public service. As for whether I''m used to it or not...?"


    "Well, I can only say that I am a member of the Investigation Bureau, so no matter what tasks my superiors assign to me, I will get used to them."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s utterly official response, Qin Zhengguang smiled and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "It''s good to have that awareness."


    "However, if you''re not used to it, you can talk to me."


    "If you''re willing, I can go have a chat with the Bureau Chief and transfer you to our Public Security Bureau."


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s words, Qiu Tu looked at him seriously to make sure he wasn''t just being polite, then his eyebrows slightly lifted, and he replied with a smile, "Thank you for your concern, Director Qin."


    "If I need to, I will definitely trouble you."


    Qin Zhengguang "hmmed" in response, then gestured to Qiu Tu before they started walking towards the Investigation Bureau building together.


    Meanwhile, as they walked, Qiu Tu wasn''t idle. He glanced at Qin Zhengguang walking beside him and tentatively asked, "Director Qin, are you familiar with Vice President Tian?"


    "Vice President Tian?" Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Zhengguang clearly paused for a moment.


    After hesitating briefly, he shook his head smilingly, "I''m not very familiar with Vice President Tian."


    "But my eldest brother, my third brother, and... Fourth Brother have quite a good relationship with him."


    When mentioning "Fourth Brother," Qin Zhengguang''s expression visibly soured.


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu''s eyebrows slightly furrowed, ''Commissioner Qin, Third Brother Qin, Old Fourth Qin all have good relations with Vice President Tian?''


    It was normal for a city hall commissioner and a major businessman to be acquainted with Vice President Tian, but why would Old Fourth Qin, a tough guy, have dealings with him?


    At this moment, seeing Qiu Tu ask such a question, Qin Zhengguang curiously countered, "Chief Qiu, why do you ask this? Has something happened to Vice President Tian?"


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s question, Qiu Tu recovered his wits and was just about to give a perfunctory reply.


    However, at that moment, a familiar voice called out from behind them, "Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing that call, Qiu Tu, who had been quite relaxed, suddenly tensed up.


    Because... that was Secretary Bai''s voice.


    ''Why would I encounter him at a time like this?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu stealthily swept his gaze over the entire first-floor lobby of the Investigation Bureau building.


    Perhaps because it was during work hours, there were a lot of investigators coming and going in the lobby.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu felt slightly stirred: although it wasn''t the most ideal scene, could it be an opportunity to save Old Bai?


    At this time, hearing the voice behind him, Qin Zhengguang also looked back.


    Seeing that it was Secretary Bai, he turned around, smiling as he patted Qiu Tu''s arm, then prepared to leave swiftly.


    But the moment his right foot stepped forward, Qiu Tu suddenly reached out and grabbed him.


    This action left Qin Zhengguang bewildered.


    He stopped walking, surprised, and looked at Qiu Tu, not understanding what Qiu Tu was up to.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu, while holding on to Qin Zhengguang, turned around and saluted the approaching Secretary Bai with a standard gesture, saying in a distant, formal tone, "Good day, sir!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s action, Secretary Bai was slightly taken aback as well, and his pace involuntarily slowed down, his gaze flickering.


    At that moment, Qin Zhengguang standing next to Qiu Tu was already completely dumbfounded.


    In the Investigation Bureau with so many senior staff, who didn''t know that Qiu Tu was brought up by Secretary Bai''s own hand?


    It was because of Secretary Bai''s recommendation that Qiu Tu managed to catch Yan Chen''s eye, be put to good use, and step by step reach his current position.


    Therefore, Secretary Bai could be said to have been the benefactor who recognized Qiu Tu''s potential. And the label of being part of Secretary Bai''s loyalists had long been stamped upon him.


    Yet now, Qiu Tu was being so cold to Secretary Bai?


    There must be something fishy going on!


    At this moment, Qin Zhengguang felt as if he had wandered into a "Melon Field," looking back and forth between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai, his heart filled with curiosity...


    But at that time, Qiu Tu did not give Qin Zhengguang the chance to continue "watching the show."


    After asking and receiving a response, his expression cooled. Then he nodded slightly to Secretary Bai, turned around pulling Qin Zhengguang, and walked away.


    Qin Zhengguang was reluctant to leave, but... he had to. So he smiled at Secretary Bai, and then was pulled by Qiu Tu into the elevator.


    The two men stood inside the elevator, while Secretary Bai stood outside.


    Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai looked at each other across the space.


    Taking advantage of the moment when Qin Zhengguang was not paying attention, Qiu Tu''s head moved slightly left and right.


    Because he was in the elevator, the outside investigators couldn''t see him ¨C only Secretary Bai, who was directly in front of him, saw the movement. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Secretary Bai''s brow furrowed slightly, as if he had thought of something.


    The elevator doors slowly closed...


    And just as they were about to close, Secretary Bai''s expression subtly changed, he cast a resentful glance at Qiu Tu and then spat on the ground, muttering under his breath, "What a thing! Ungrateful! Doesn''t know when he''s well off!"


    Accompanying that mutter, the elevator doors sealed shut, as if severing the inside world from the outside.


    And faintly hearing Secretary Bai''s response, Qiu Tu also completely relaxed; he still had an understanding with Old Bai...


    As the elevator ascended slowly, Qin Zhengguang scanned Qiu Tu multiple times throughout the ride and finally couldn''t help himself, "Chief Qiu and Secretary Bai...?"


    Hearing Qin Zhengguang''s words, Qiu Tu pretended to just snap back to reality, then he ''oh''-ed, smiling hastily as he said, "There''s nothing between us. All normal. Director Qin misunderstood."


    At that moment, the elevator doors opened, reaching the 5th floor, which was the office level of the Public Security Bureau.


    Qin Zhengguang''s face revealed an "I''ve seen through it all" expression, smiling as he patted Qiu Tu and teased, "I haven''t even said anything yet. How do you know I misunderstood?"


    After saying that, he laughed ''haha'' twice, with the smile of a victor, and stepped out of the elevator.


    And behind him, an expression of chagrin involuntarily appeared on Qiu Tu''s face, as if Qin Zhengguang really had seen through him.


    Only when Qin Zhengguang''s figure had completely vanished did his expression slowly return to normal, and his eyes started to playfully twinkle.


    Every good show needs an audience, and Qin Zhengguang was clearly a qualified one.


    With his preconceived notions, the incident of his conflict with Secretary Bai would likely spread throughout the Investigation Bureau quickly.


    Moreover, with so many investigators coming and going in the lobby just before, there would certainly be some who noticed the abnormality between himself and Secretary Bai. They would add fuel to the fire as the topic spread.


    So, he believed it wouldn''t take long for this matter to reach the ears of Jia Shu and Yan Chen.


    He and Secretary Bai had a very good relationship just yesterday. And now, they''re suddenly at odds this morning?


    Under these circumstances, they would easily suspect that the conflict with Secretary Bai might have something to do with the phone call last night.


    If Secretary Bai had been tipping him off, there would be no reason for them to fall out.


    Therefore, the call from Secretary Bai last night was most likely about something else.


    With this preconception in place, handling the rest with Secretary Bai would be easy.


    He just needed to come up with some lie about their conflict when it was appropriate, such as when Yan Chen asked, and he could use that opportunity to clear a lot of suspicions.


    And even if there weren''t a good opportunity to explain, as long as the fake news reached Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s ears, it would influence their judgment regarding Secretary Bai''s potential betrayal.


    Even if, retreating ten thousand steps, Qiu Tu had guessed everything about the true nature of the incident wrong, and last night wasn''t a scheme,


    It was beneficial for Qiu Tu, enmeshed in a great vortex, to keep his distance from Secretary Bai for Secretary Bai''s own good as well.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu felt that he had truly invested a lot of care for both himself and Secretary Bai...


    ''Old Bai, I''ve done all I could. The rest is up to you...''


    Thinking thus, the elevator doors closed slowly, and then it continued its ascent.


    Soon, he arrived at the 9th floor.


    Qiu Tu got off the elevator and headed towards the office area of the Interrogation Section.


    On his way, Qiu Tu was not idle; he kept a discreet watch on the Political Department Investigators coming and going.


    Just as he had surmised, the whole Political Department was not busier than usual because of the female spy''s death; everything was as orderly as in the days before.


    This showed that the information was indeed being contained, only leaking out quietly through a few hidden channels.


    This was indeed very consistent with the theory of a "trap."


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also reached the Interrogation Section.


    But as soon as he arrived, his subordinate Song Qing found him.


    Saluting Qiu Tu, Song Qing reported respectfully, "Chief, the Commissioner wants to see you."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Song Qing''s "Loyalty."


    After yesterday''s "strike declaration," Song Qing''s Loyalty finally exceeded 30, reaching 31 points.


    This indicated that she now saw him as a normal superior, without the inclination to "resist orders" or "speak ill behind his back."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also probed with a question, "What does the Commissioner want to discuss with me?"


    Indeed, the loyal Song Qing hesitated briefly but still whispered a piece of news to Qiu Tu, "It seems he wants to talk to you about Cao Dabiao and his issues."


    ----


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 Chapter 80 - 69 Sugar-Coated Cannonballs (7k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment.


    ''Cao Dabiao?''


    ''The First Level Detective from the Political Department who was tricked by me to take the fall for the Qin Family?''


    Qiu Tu was taken aback,


    ''So...is it about the issue with the Political Department team stationed at the Qin Family?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, and he roughly had a guess in his mind.


    The art of controlling subordinates changes endlessly but never strays from its root: it''s all about the stick and the carrot.


    Previously, the "sticks" given to me were more than enough; now, are they preparing the carrot?


    Combining the increased satisfaction from Yan Chen this morning, Qiu Tu felt his guess was very close to the truth.


    At this moment, as Qiu Tu silently pondered, Song Qing was curiously sizing up Qiu Tu by her side.


    After a moment, when Qiu Tu came back to his senses, Song Qing asked curiously, "Chief, do you already know what''s going on?"


    Upon hearing her, Qiu Tu looked at her and said with a smile, "I have a rough idea."


    "It''s probably about conducting an internal review of Cao Dabiao and his team. After all, I''ve once been their superior."


    "If that''s the case, the minister''s attitude might be to let them off."


    "They''re really lucky."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing couldn''t help but show a trace of surprise on her face.


    She found it quite magical.


    The young chief before her seemed to have many facets: there was the image of the Profligate Son who teased his subordinates, the image of the warrior who dared to challenge his superiors, and the clever image of a strategist who planned with cleverness...


    Song Qing''s perception of Qiu Tu had changed a lot, perhaps influenced by Qiu Tu''s confrontation with Zheng Tao yesterday.


    Qiu Tu, with his keen awareness, noticed the change in Song Qing''s attitude toward him, so on the way to see Jia Shu, he kept busy.


    He recalled the reason for Song Qing''s increase in loyalty yesterday and then chose a similar entry point.


    "Is our Interrogation Section always this busy?"


    Qiu Tu might have really found Song Qing''s switch.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Song Qing immediately opened up and started a torrent of complaints.


    Qiu Tu listened quietly by the side, occasionally joining in the complaint, providing some emotional value.


    So, in just a short two-minute walk, Song Qing''s look at Qiu Tu had already completely changed, almost considering Qiu Tu a confidant.


    And Qiu Tu also received the feedback he wanted:


    [Song Qing''s loyalty +11. Current loyalty: 42.]


    Seeing how rapidly he was closing the distance with Song Qing, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    ''Sure enough, young girls are easy to deceive.''


    [108 Ways to Boost Affection] No 41: Women are emotional creatures. Being a listener at the right time and joining their complaints can quickly close the distance between two people.


    So, a bad man must learn how to bring out a girl''s topics and listen. If you can turn on her switch, then the other switches... will be much easier to turn on as well.


    Having conversed all the way, Song Qing seemed a bit reluctant to end the conversation, but they had reached the place where Jia Shu was waiting to meet with Qiu Tu, so she had to stop there.


    Her eyes twinkling, she looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Chief, I didn''t expect us to have so much in common, I hope we can talk more in the future."


    Qiu Tu, smiling, replied, "You can come to me anytime you have any issues. Let''s communicate more."


    Song Qing gave a cute "Mhm" and then pointed to the Sky Garden not far off, saying, "Chief, the minister is waiting for you at the Sky Garden."


    Upon hearing her, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, said a polite "Thank you," and then stepped towards the Sky Garden.


    Walking onto the rooftop, Jia Shu indeed stood at the edge of the Sky Garden, hands behind his back, gazing at the scene of Xinjie City where much needed to be done.


    Maybe having heard Qiu Tu''s footsteps, he did not turn around but continued looking at the scenery while saying with a laugh, "If you find that you get along with a stranger no matter what you talk about, you must be careful."


    "Because more likely than not, they aren''t truly compatible with you but have knowledge, experience, emotional intelligence, and IQ far above yours."


    With that, he turned around, his expression mockingly smiling, and looked at Qiu Tu, "Don''t you agree, Chief Qiu?"


    Knowing that Jia Shu was hinting at his overpowering treatment of Song Qing, Qiu Tu merely smiled noncommittally, "Communicating more with subordinates and listening to their opinions about the department is my responsibility as a chief."


    Jia Shu watched Qiu Tu, and Qiu Tu also just quietly looked back at him.


    After a moment, the smile on Jia Shu''s face became incredibly radiant.


    He turned back to continue gazing at the distant scenery and then inquired, "Do you still remember where this place is, Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu paused, his gaze sweeping over the Sky Garden.


    Jia Shu continued, "Don''t remember?"


    Qiu Tu quickly searched through the memories of his predecessor but... came up empty.


    So he could only respond with an evasive laugh, "I really don''t seem to have any impression..."


    Upon hearing that, Jia Shu chuckled lightly, "That''s right. You should have no memory because this is your first time here."


    Qiu Tu was filled with question marks: ??


    What''s wrong with you? Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It''s my first time here, and you make all this fuss, scaring me! I thought my time-traveling secret was going to be exposed!


    Jia Shu, oblivious to Qiu Tu''s internal monologue, continued gazing at Xinjie City with his back to Qiu Tu, and kept speaking, "This is the Sky Garden, where only chiefs and above middle-level officers are allowed."


    "Here, you can enjoy tea and desserts while looking down at the whole Xinjie City."


    "You can also have a waiter clean your uniform, prepare dinner, or even buy you anything you want."


    With that, Jia Shu turned around and motioned with a wave of his hand. Immediately, a young and beautiful female server approached to hand him a cup of coffee.

 Chapter 81 - 69 Sugar-Coated Cannonballs (7k words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Jia Shu leaned on the railing at the edge of the rooftop, sipped his coffee lightly, and then continued, "And once you become the Director, you will have an independent rest room on the 12th floor, a personal secretary, a personal driver."


    "A villa in the city center provided by City Hall, all the resources related to your life provided by the Investigation Bureau."


    "As for becoming the Bureau Chief..."


    At this point, Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile, "As one of the three most powerful people in the entire Xinjie City, your command will be the will of everyone in Xinjie City."


    "Whatever you want, someone will bring it to you the next day."


    "Whichever woman you like, she will appear in your bed the next day."


    "Whatever you want to do in Xinjie City, as long as you don''t betray the Sanctuary, no one in Xinjie City can stop you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu blinked and asked, "Not even the military or the Municipal Committee can stop me?"


    Jia Shu nodded with a smile, "Of course."


    "Moreover... they won''t stop you."


    "At that level, even if there are struggles, they are all on the battlefield above, who would care about what you do below."


    As he said this, Jia Shu continued with a smile, "And if you want to climb up step by step, you must follow the right person."


    "Only by following the right person can you climb to the peak step by step."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu immediately understood his implication and immediately professed his loyalty.


    He straightened his spine and said resolutely, "Director, rest assured! I will definitely follow closely behind you, closely behind the Bureau Chief''s footsteps!"


    Loyalty doesn''t cost a thing. Qiu Tu would give Jia Shu his loyalty, even at wholesale if necessary.


    Jia Shu obviously wasn''t fooled; he smiled noncommittally and said, "No matter how nice the words are, it all depends on concrete actions."


    Having said that, Jia Shu finally revealed the reason he had called Qiu Tu over, "Next, I have two tasks for you."


    "Two tasks?" Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment. This was quite different from what Song Qing had told him.


    Jia Shu nodded, and then said, "The first task is, in the next few days you will conduct an internal interrogation of Cao Dabiao''s group of agents."


    He continued, "You know that a big incident happened at the Qin Family a few days ago. Not only did Master Qin Si escape, but Miss Qin Shuman is still missing."


    "Cao Dabiao''s group, as part of Miss Shuman''s Security Team and the Qin Family''s secret investigation group, failed in their duties and have all been detained."


    "You were previously their superior, so you should be familiar with them and very clear about their merits and faults in this operation."


    "Therefore, it would be best for you to adjudicate and mete out their punishments."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu did not agree immediately but instead tentatively asked, "Does the chief have any opinions about this internal interrogation?"


    On hearing this, Jia Shu looked deep into Qiu Tu''s eyes. Then, with a smile that seemed not quite a smile, he said, "No opinions. You have full discretion."


    However, after saying that, he added another sentence, "This opportunity was specially secured for you by the Bureau Chief himself."


    "You should seize it well."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu immediately knew that his previous guess was correct: this was his carrot, allowing him to cultivate his own faction openly and above board.


    Thinking this, he quickly professed his loyalty again, "Thank you, Director, for the cultivation!"


    Jia Shu nodded in satisfaction, then took a sip of his coffee, and continued, "The second task is also related to you, actually."


    He said, "Yin Caimei is dead."


    Qiu Tu, mimicking the expression he had last night, looked completely bewildered, "Who?"


    Jia Shu looked deeply at him, as if trying to discern whether he was feigning ignorance.


    Possibly seeing no tell-tale signs, Jia Shu explained, "The female spy you interrogated the day before yesterday. Vice President Tian''s mistress."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly feigned a look of realization, "Ah, her."


    Then Qiu Tu furrowed his brow and candidly said, "Director, to tell you the truth, I heard about this last night."


    Jia Shu let out an "Oh?" and asked with feigned curiosity, "Who told you?"


    Having guessed the whole truth of the matter, Qiu Tu did not hesitate to betray Liu Fuping, "From Agent Liu."


    Qiu Tu said, "Last night, Agent Liu found me and told me the news. Then she asked me what to do."


    Qiu Tu spread his hands with an innocent look and said, "How should I know what to do."


    "If an important witness dies, the Bureau will just follow the normal procedure to investigate, perform an autopsy. See what the cause of death was, if it''s natural causes then close the case, if it''s foul play then look for a mole."


    "It''s not like I was the interrogator, I''m just a supervisor, what does it have to do with me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu chuckled, "Agent Qiu is really cold-hearted."


    "I remember a few days ago, you and Agent Liu seemed quite close; I even thought you took an interest in her."


    Qiu Tu also laughed and said, "Raising a fish, if it dies, I would be very sad, but raising a whole pond of fish, if one or two die, what does it have to do with me."


    "In chaotic times, there are only bodies, no feelings."


    Upon hearing this, Jia Shu clapped his hands, not knowing whether he was being sarcastic or offering praise, "Good, very carefree."


    Having said that, he changed his tone and said, "But now, this matter does concern you."


    "From today onwards, you will be responsible for investigating the death of this female spy."


    "This female spy was Vice President Tian''s mistress and was involved with several bigwigs from the political and business circles of Xinjie City."


    "Yet she was also a spy for the United Front, and over the year since the establishment of Xinjie City, she has delivered intelligence to the United Front multiple times, causing many businessmen in Xinjie to suffer losses. Therefore, her identity is extremely sensitive."


    "Now she suddenly died in our Bureau''s guard room. We must thoroughly investigate this matter to give a satisfactory explanation to the political and business circles that are watching this closely."


    As he said this, without waiting for Qiu Tu to ask, Jia Shu implied, "So, her case must be wrapped up quickly, and it shouldn''t cause too much of a stir."


    "Especially... it has to satisfy the interests of both the political and business realms."


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu was startled, instinctively feeling that something was wrong.


    At the same time, something flashed before his eyes.


    The next second, lines of [Crisis Warning] appeared in his field of vision.


    "Triggered Crisis Intuition! Generating crisis report!"


    "For certain reasons, your immediate supervisor, Head of the Political Department of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu, has assigned you a task filled with traps."


    "This task has attracted the attention of many forces in Xinjie City. Just one misstep and you will fall into a deep abyss."


    "But standing on the rooftop as you are, you have no room to refuse. Denying him will allow him to use insubordination as an excuse, suspend your position, strip you of your ''Golden Body'', and then find an opportunity to secretly execute you."


    "Accept the mission, and dance on a tightrope, find that slim chance of survival before the patience of the many powers runs out."


    As the warning ended, a countdown hourglass popped up.


    [10 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    Seeing the [Crisis Warning] that popped up in front of him, cold sweat dripped down Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    If he was only suspicious before, now with the prompt from [Crisis Intuition], he was completely certain.


    The waters of this case were indeed deep! There were also big problems!


    And what was more troublesome... he didn''t have much choice!


    This old scoundrel really deserved a terrible death!


    Mentally sending a kind greeting to Jia Shu''s maternal relatives, Qiu Tu then looked at Jia Shu, smiling as he replied, "Understood, sir. I will make sure to handle this in a way that satisfies everyone."


    Upon hearing this, a hint of a smile appeared in the depths of Jia Shu''s eyes. He patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder with satisfaction and encouraged, "Very good. The Bureau Chief and I indeed haven''t misjudged you."


    [Jia Shu''s suspicion-0, satisfaction+1]


    ...


    After discussing the two tasks with Jia Shu, Qiu Tu suppressed the unease in his heart and tried to appear normal.


    So, he took the opportunity to briefly mention his encounter with the Security Department the previous night as a [Double Agent]. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In his words, he had gone through great hardships to reconnect with the Security Department. They, however, remained vigilant towards him, clearly not fully trusting him.

 Chapter 82 - 70: The Agents Were All Stunned (7k Request for Follow-up Reading!)

    However, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu just smiled and said something rather inexplicable, "It doesn''t matter, even if they don''t trust you now, they will soon rely on you heavily."


    Qiu Tu always felt there was a deeper meaning to Jia Shu''s words, as if there were some problems within the Security Department. But because of his position, he couldn''t inquire further, so he had no choice but to let it go.


    And so, after discussing all the matters, Qiu Tu and Jia Shu had a brief chat before Qiu Tu saluted and left the Sky Garden.


    After leaving the Sky Garden, Qiu Tu held the two Authorization Letters from Jia Shu, and as he walked towards the Interrogation Section, he pondered his next steps.


    According to the hints provided by "Crisis Intuition," this case was riddled with a great deal of insider dealings, and various forces were involved, likely with misaligned targets and interests.


    Take Jia Shu, for example...


    Given the implications of Jia Shu''s words, it was clear he wanted Qiu Tu to make the case appear fraudulent, to deal with it perfunctorily.


    But... Qiu Tu definitely couldn''t just comply with his wishes.


    Otherwise, who knows, he might end up being thrown out as a scapegoat!


    Therefore, he must investigate this case personally, or at the very least... he had to make some noise about it!


    Investigating required manpower, and so did making noise. Right now, he had only a few individuals at his disposal, so the first step was to release Cao Dabiao and his group.


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but contemplate how to release Cao Dabiao and his people, while also taking this opportunity to maximize their loyalty...


    Gradually, Qiu Tu had a plan forming in his mind...


    [10 Days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    ....


    Meanwhile.


    In a large holding room on the 9th floor of the Political Department.


    Cao Dabiao and another 13 detectives were inside.


    Since they were their own people and not real criminals, the guards did not mistreat them. Therefore, their physical condition was fairly good, but their spirits were greatly tormented.


    After a prolonged silence...


    Little Liu, a confidant of Cao Dabiao, nudged him and then whispered, "Brother Biao, will we be able to get out of here?"


    "It''s been several days already."


    "Why has no one cared about us?"


    "Could we be directly kicked out of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Upon hearing Little Liu''s words, Cao Dabiao looked up at him with a glare and said hoarsely, "What a jinx!"


    "If you can''t talk properly, then don''t talk at all, no one''s treating you like a mute!"


    Little Qi on the other side of Cao Dabiao looked up upon hearing this and sighed, "If we were only getting kicked out of the Investigation Bureau that would still be fine."


    "We''ve lost the Bureau Chief''s mistress, and during the investigation, such a big event occurred with the Qin family."


    "The Minister sparing us is only because we are their own people."


    Cao Dabiao didn''t expect that just as he had silenced Little Liu, Little Qi would speak up, mentioning the sensitive topic of the mistress.


    He slapped Little Qi on the head with a "smack", "You talk too much! Do you have a death wish?"


    However, perhaps because they had been locked up in the Guard Room for two whole days, the atmosphere inside seemed like it was losing control.


    Little Liu and Little Qi, Cao Dabiao''s confidants, were hushed by Cao Dabiao, but the other regular detectives also started to grumble quietly among themselves.


    There were various complaints.


    For instance...


    "We really got the short end of the stick. We didn''t do anything, yet suddenly such a big problem arises, and we immediately become the scapegoats."


    "Yeah. We are truly wronged. Who could have known something like this would happen?"


    "If you ask me, this is all Qiu Tu''s fault. If he hadn''t suddenly started investigating the Qin family, drawing us in, perhaps we wouldn''t have been so unlucky. And now he''s gone, while we all got into trouble."


    As soon as this detective voiced his complaint, the atmosphere in the Guard Room became tense.


    In the face of unexpected "man-made disasters," most normal people''s first reaction is to look for external outlets to vent their frustration, to ease their internal distress. This is human nature.


    And Qiu Tu, the person who had called everyone over, naturally became the most easily targeted outlet for venting.


    But one should not forget that Qiu Tu was not the same as before.


    Even though Qiu Tu was nominally their superior, he was, in fact, just like them, a lower-level detective.


    But now Qiu Tu is a Deputy Staff, a leap into the mid-level ranks of the Investigation Bureau, with open channels for advancement and limitless potential for growth.


    In this situation, these detectives, bearing the guilt, how could they dare to offend Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, even if they wanted to curse at Qiu Tu, the most they could do was curse in their hearts; they wouldn''t dare to speak out loud.


    After all, who knew if these words would reach Qiu Tu''s ears and bring even bigger troubles.


    So, when they heard that fearless remark from the detective, everyone suddenly fell silent, and no one dared to join in.


    A moment passed before the deputy team leader, Chen Feng, spoke up. His face showed no emotion as he said, "This isn''t Chief Qiu''s fault."


    "He didn''t know this would happen."


    "It''s just our own bad luck."


    After he finished speaking, the guard room became quiet again. Although the investigators stopped talking, their expressions varied widely.


    At that point, Cao Dabiao also spoke up. With his arms crossed and leaning against the wall, he said in a muffled voice, "He indeed couldn''t have known in advance that this would happen, but... he must have found out after the fact, right?"


    "It was because of him that we all got dragged into this, and we''ve been subordinates to them for several days. Back then, he acted like he was our brother. Now, if he cared at all, he should try to find some way to save us."


    His words clearly resonated with many investigators. A significant number nodded slightly, their faces betraying their disgruntlement. Some even had reddened eyes as they reflected on their uncertain futures.


    But there were a few investigators, like Chen Feng, who showed no reaction and simply sat there with cold expressions.


    For a moment, every person in the guard room sat with varying expressions, lost in their emotions.


    Just then, the sound of unlocking the door suddenly came from the entrance.


    Upon hearing this, the investigators in the guard room quickly straightened up and looked towards the door, their hearts pounding with anxiety.


    They had been locked up here for two days and nights. Although food and water were delivered on time, not a single person had come to see them. This had left them restless for two days.


    Now, finally someone had come to see them. Regardless of whether the outcome was good or bad, at least they no longer had to endure the agony.


    As these thoughts raced through their minds, the door to the guard room opened.


    A beautiful young woman with two gold stars on her shoulder stepped into the room, escorted by a guard investigator.


    Upon entering the guard room, the young woman held her nose and fanned the air distastefully, saying, "Yuck, it stinks."


    The investigators inside blushed slightly, feeling uncomfortable.


    After making her remark, the young woman looked around at all the troubled investigators in the room, confirmed the headcount, and then took out a document, announcing, "I am Second-Class Investigator Liu Fuping from the Interrogation Section, under orders from my superiors I am here to take you for an internal investigation."


    "Now, when I call your name, step out and line up. Follow me."


    With that, Liu Fuping began calling out names from the list, "Cao Dabiao."


    "Present!" Cao Dabiao quickly got up and hurried over to Liu Fuping.


    When he arrived in front of Liu Fuping, he showed a sycophantic smile and bent over as he greeted, "Hello, Officer, sorry to trouble you."


    He was a First Level Detective, addressing Liu Fuping, a Second-Class Investigator, as an officer ¨C a distinction that made Liu Fuping glance at him in surprise.


    "Chen Feng."


    Chen Feng stood up without expression from his spot in the corner and stood behind Cao Dabiao.


    "Ding Liu, Ding Qi!"


    As names were called out one by one, it wasn''t long before all 13 investigators stood in a line.


    After confirming the headcount, Liu Fuping gestured with her hand, then, swaying her hips, she left the guard room.


    Outside the guard room, six Operational Group investigators with live ammunition stood at the ready, handcuffing the investigators as they walked out, including Cao Dabiao.


    Thus, led by Liu Fuping and escorted by the six Operational Group investigators, Cao Dabiao and the rest arrived at a large interrogation room.


    To everyone''s surprise, this interrogation did not seem to be the usual individual interrogation, but a collective one.


    Cao Dabiao and the others entered the large interrogation room one after another, then stood in line against the wall with their handcuffs on.


    The braver among them stole glances at the interrogation personnel, noticing there were three seats for interrogators.


    Only the leftmost seat was occupied, by a young girl, who judging by her shoulder insignia, was a Third-Level Detective, presumably the recorder, given the pen and paperwork in her hands.


    As for the other two seats, they remained empty for now.


    Seeing this, the investigators couldn''t help feeling apprehensive.


    Their mission had indeed encountered serious issues. But as they were unforeseen circumstances, they could be excused, so the punishment could be severe or lenient, all dependent on the Interrogation Officer''s handling and sentencing.


    As a result, the attitude of the Interrogation Officer would determine their fate.


    With these thoughts in mind, the investigators all lowered their heads, standing straight in hopes of making a good impression on the soon-to-arrive Interrogation Officer and to possibly sway their fortunes.


    And just as everyone was wrapped in their uneasy thoughts, the interrogation room''s door was opened by someone from the outside, and two people stepped in.


    Before the investigators could react, the young female detective quickly stood up and saluted, saying, "Hello, Officer!"


    Hearing this, Cao Dabiao and the others discreetly lifted their gaze, eager to see who had come to interrogate them.


    The first person they saw was the young woman who had brought them here. Her hair was slightly disheveled, her cheeks were flushed, and a shimmer of moisture was in her eyes as if she had just been through something.


    Trailing behind her, the Interrogation Officer in charge of their fates was... Qiu Tu, smiling.


    The moment they saw Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao and the others'' eyes widened.


    In that instant, they felt as though they were seeing their savior.


    Joy swirled within their chests. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ---

 Chapter 83 - 71: Soaring Loyalty (7k for follow-up reading!)

    Qiu Tu looked at Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and their wide eyes, barely restrained yet still upturned lips, and smiled faintly.


    That was exactly the effect he wanted.


    Only when these detectives had given up all hope and could only pray that the interrogator would let them off easy, and then he made his entrance, could he elevate his status in their hearts to the highest degree and rapidly increase their loyalty.


    For this moment, Qiu Tu had even specifically reminded Liu Fuping to omit his name when announcing the order for the interrogation.


    And now, didn''t the effect seem quite good?


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu walked to the interrogation seat, sat down in the center position, and calmly swept his gaze over all the detectives present, capturing all their loyalty levels in his mind.


    [Cao Dabiao: 23+8]


    [Chen Feng: 42+6]


    [Ding Xiaoliu: 29+6]


    [Ding Xiaoqi: 13+6]


    [Zhu Huoyan: 31+5]


    [....]


    The numbers in front represent the detective''s loyalty levels before seeing Qiu Tu, while the numbers following represent the instant increase in their loyalty after Qiu Tu made his appearance.


    Generally speaking, most detectives'' original loyalty levels were not high. Apart from Chen Feng, whose loyalty exceeded 40 points, and three detectives like Zhu Huoyan who were over 30 points, most detectives had loyalty levels in the 20-30 range.


    This was within Qiu Tu''s expectations.


    After all, he had only been their superior for two days, there wasn''t much emotional connection, and he had also dragged them into the mess that was the Qin Family.


    Now that he was no longer their superior, there was no superior-subordinate relationship, and it was good enough that they didn''t hate him. Hence, it was quite normal for their loyalty to drop below 30 after just two days.


    Qiu Tu speculated: their loyalty didn''t drop below 20 probably because he had given them benefits before.


    Therefore, compared to the original loyalty levels, what Qiu Tu was more concerned about was the increase in their loyalty.


    An appearance that increased loyalty by 5-8 points let Qiu Tu know that his plan was working.


    He felt that as long as he made an effort, by manipulating their perceptions a few more times during the interrogation, he could swiftly raise their loyalty to a new level.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu continued to execute his plan.


    He tapped on Liu Fuping''s desk. The beautiful young woman gathered her hair, stood up understandingly, and then began to read out the document.


    The content of the document was simple; it listed the mistakes made by Cao Dabiao and others during the mission.


    These included not protecting the key person (Qin Shuman) safely, allowing an important suspect (Shen Lingshuang) to escape, failing the tasks assigned by superiors (obtaining evidence of the Qin Family''s crimes), embezzlement of public funds, among others...


    The more these charges were read out, the weirder the expressions of Cao Dabiao and others became.


    They couldn''t help feeling strange because although these charges were indeed related to them... it appeared that most were led by Qiu Tu himself, who was sitting in the center of the interrogation podium.


    And now, Qiu Tu sat at the interrogation podium, while they wore handcuffs?


    How could such a sharp contrast not make Cao Dabiao and the others feel bizarre?


    Of course, it was this very contrast that once again made Cao Dabiao "recognize" Qiu Tu''s background and power.


    After so many incidents, Qiu Tu was safe and sound, even in a position to interrogate them, he really was as favored by the Bureau Chief as he said.


    So, when Liu Fuping finished reading the charges and Qiu Tu slowly began to speak, they listened with utmost attention.


    That was when they heard Qiu Tu slowly say, "We''re all acquainted here, so I won''t beat around the bush."


    "Actually, I wasn''t initially in charge of this interrogation."


    "After all, I was involved in the mission, had been your superior, and should, by rights, recuse myself."


    "But then again... it''s precisely because I participated in the mission and understand everyone''s situation that I am the best candidate to preside over this case."


    "Therefore, I specifically went to the Bureau Chief and the Minister, and took over this internal review."


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu tapped Song Qing, who was writing vigorously, and coughed, "Don''t record what I just said."


    Upon hearing this, Song Qing paused for a moment, then tore off the half page of interrogation transcript she had just written, crumpled it into a ball, and threw it into the trash can.


    With a simple statement and command, Qiu Tu immediately left a deep impression on the group of detectives below.


    Those who had worked with him on a case knew that Qiu Tu was showcasing his power and giving them a tap on the shoulder as a warning.


    Qiu Tu not only told them that he had the support of Yan Chen and Jia Shu behind him but also demonstrated with a simple command that he could freely alter the records of the interrogation and decide their fate.


    Thus, all at once, before Qiu Tu, rose another wave of prompts indicating an increase in [loyalty].


    Qiu Tu glanced at them nonchalantly and then began the formal proceedings.


    His gaze turned first to Cao Dabiao.


    "Cao Dabiao," he called out.


    Hearing his name from Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao quickly put on an ingratiating face and stepped forward, "Here, Chief. I''m here."


    Qiu Tu looked down at the document in his hand and then said, "As a First Level Detective, you were the operational leader of this mission, as well as the leader of the Security Team."


    "Regarding your failure to protect key personnel, letting suspects escape, and embezzling public funds¡ªdo you have anything to say in your defense?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Cao Dabiao was momentarily stunned.


    To be honest, he indeed had a lot of grievances he wanted to dispute.


    For example, about letting suspects escape...


    He could swear to heaven! He never even saw the suspect, okay?!


    Qiu Tu did not hand it over to him during the transfer.


    It was only after he was arrested that he learned there was even a suspect within the Security Team.


    For instance, embezzling public funds. He indeed... embezzled a bit, um... some. But out of the 500 Silver Yuan of public funds, most were taken away by Qiu Tu. He only took 100 Silver Yuan.


    If someone else were conducting the trial, he might hesitate and speak out. But now that Qiu Tu is overseeing the trial, can he say it?


    He cannot...


    He knows that even if he truly drags Qiu Tu down with him, it won''t save himself; it would only offend Qiu Tu. So, it''s better to take all the blame, leave a good impression on Qiu Tu, and perhaps Qiu Tu might remember their former relationship and give him a hand.


    Thinking this, he gritted his teeth and managed a forced smile, saying, "I admit it, Chief." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +6]


    Hearing his words and seeing the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu knew exactly what Cao Dabiao was thinking: He was starting to place his bets on him.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu looked deeply at him and smiled, "Detective Cao, won''t you think it over?"


    "Are you sure it was you who let the suspect escape? The public funds, you embezzled them?"


    Cao Dabiao was startled.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s mocking smile, a wave of silent complaints rose in his heart.


    He was convinced that Qiu Tu was testing whether he would truly not betray Qiu Tu; so, he bit his lip again and said, "Chief, it truly was me!"


    A look of disappointment crossed Qiu Tu''s face. He knocked on Song Qing''s record book again, asking her to stop.


    Then he said to Cao Dabiao, "Detective Cao, don''t feel pressured. This is just a normal internal investigation."


    "Let me share my thoughts first."


    He drank some water and said indifferently, "As members of the Security Team and the task force, your failure to accomplish the task given by the department is indeed very disappointing."


    "But nobody expected the Qin Family to suffer such a disaster on that day."


    "Master Qin Si set fire to the main house, throwing the entire Qin Family into chaos."


    "You all realized something was wrong and hurried to protect Miss Shuman."


    "Only to find upon arriving at Miss Shuman''s residence, the detectives from the Special Service Department were knocked out and Miss Qin Shuman was taken away."


    "You followed the clues, intending to rescue her. But unexpectedly, you fell for a diversion tactic, and not only did you fail to rescue Miss Shuman, but your station was even attacked in the process."


    "You are indeed greatly negligent in this matter, but it is understandable."


    Hearing Qiu Tu recount the course of the case, the detectives present began to see new hope in their eyes.


    If Qiu Tu''s arrival had given them hope a moment ago, they now seemed to see the first light of dawn!


    At this moment, Cao Dabiao''s heart was filled with surprise, and he kept nodding, "Ah, yes, yes, you''re right, Chief!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +2]


    Upon hearing these words, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he scolded, "What do you mean by saying I''m right?"


    "What did I say?!"


    "Cao Dabiao! I warn you, don''t talk nonsense here!"


    Qiu Tu''s sudden change of demeanor startled Cao Dabiao, but he also quickly realized his improper wording could not only fail to save himself but also add to the evidence against him.


    Therefore, he hastily said, "Chief, I''m sorry, I misspoke. I''ve finally remembered what happened that day."


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +3]


    Seeing he understood his intention, Qiu Tu knocked on Song Qing''s hand and gave her a sign.


    Song Qing rolled her eyes and once more tore up the interrogation record just taken.


    Then while crumpling the record into a ball, she said to Cao Dabiao with annoyance, "Make sure you think it through this time before speaking! I''m tired of taking notes constantly!"


    Cao Dabiao hurriedly offered Song Qing an apologetic smile, nodding and bowing.


    Following Qiu Tu''s guidance, the record-taking went very smoothly.


    All the detectives insisted that the incident occurred suddenly, and they were too late to respond, leading to all the subsequent consequences.


    After the records were taken, Qiu Tu flipped through the pages of the file, then casually pulled out a few records, saying, "Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, the three of your records are wrong."


    "I remember Cao Dabiao saying that you two were on duty at the station guarding the suspect and the petty cash."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun were all stunned.


    They were not fools.


    According to the previous records, they were at most guilty of negligence, but now being specified as the guards of the suspect and petty cash meant dereliction of duty, facing harsher punishment.


    But before they could refute,


    Qiu Tu pulled out several more records and said, "And Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, Jiao Ming, weren''t you all dispatched to investigate a case that day?"


    "How did you end up going to rescue Miss Shuman?"


    "Make the corrections, all of you correct it."


    If it had only been Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun''s records being altered for the worse, many detectives might not have thought too much of it.


    But when the records of Chen Feng and others were directly changed toward exoneration, many detectives started to sense something was amiss.


    They looked at each other, then reflected on the situation, only to suddenly realize... Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, and the others seemed to be the ones who had been speaking up for Qiu Tu in the Guard Room these past few days.

 Chapter 84 - 72: Grateful Detective (7k for follow-up reads!)

    Yet Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and Su Yun were dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, among those who had mocked him.


    With this in mind, they couldn''t help but look towards Qiu Tu. And then... they saw the calm and deep eyes of Qiu Tu, serene as the depths of the sea, as if he could see through people''s hearts...


    In that moment, a chill ran down the spine of all the investigators. Sweat formed on the foreheads of Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, and the others.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also spoke indifferently, "If there is anything incorrect in the record, everyone is free to mention it."


    "The great fire at the Qin family only burned for two days, and most of the traces can still be clearly investigated."


    "If the testimonies of everyone here do not match up, I can apply to the higher-ups for permission to conduct an investigation in the Qin family residence."


    Hearing the threatening undertone in Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and the others no longer misunderstood Qiu Tu''s intentions.


    Right now, Qiu Tu only knew that they held dissatisfaction towards him, so he was giving them a warning.


    But if one were to not accept this goodwill gesture, Qiu Tu would directly determine their guilt.


    At that moment, the three of them hurriedly said, "No problem, Chief."


    [Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, Loyalty +8]


    [Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, Jiao Ming, Loyalty +10]


    The loyalty of the other investigators also changed differently.


    Once everyone''s guilt was determined, the next steps were to sign and fingerprint the documents.


    As each name was signed and each fingerprint was pressed, the entire interrogation finally concluded.


    After collecting the interrogation records, Qiu Tu slowly said to the 13 investigators, "Everyone can rest assured, with your testimonies and the traces left at the scene, the results of everyone''s review will come out quickly."


    "By then, we should all still be colleagues."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s decisive words, the investigators present could no longer contain the joy in their hearts, each of them looking at Qiu Tu excitedly.


    They had waited so many days, agonizing for so long. They had cooperated with Qiu Tu precisely for this outcome, hadn''t they?


    In today''s Xinjie City, to be a formal investigator, especially a political investigator, was to have a truly formidable presence.


    Not only was the salary generous, but one could also protect family, neighbors. They could walk with their backs straight and heads held high.


    Therefore, having worked so hard to become investigators, how could they bear to take off their uniforms?


    Seeing the excitement among the investigators, Qiu Tu smiled and asked in a timely manner, "I have a case to work on next. Would any of you be interested?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the group of investigators, freshly favored by Qiu Tu''s benevolence, eagerly raised their hands in unison, "Chief! I can!" "Chief! Count me in!" "Chief, I want to continue working on cases under you!"


    Even the reserved Chen Feng slowly raised his hand with a determined gaze.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also said with a smile, "Alright, I''ll take note of everyone''s names then."


    "See you this afternoon."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu turned to Liu Fuping and said, "Let the operations team come to take them back."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping gave him a coquettish roll of her eyes and then got up, swaying her hips as she went to find the operations team''s investigators.


    Thus, the 13 investigators, lined up in a queue, were once again led away from the interrogation room.


    However, just as Cao Dabiao, the last in line, was about to leave the interrogation room, Qiu Tu suddenly called out to him, "Big Biao, wait a moment."


    Cao Dabiao stopped in his tracks, looking bewilderedly at Qiu Tu.


    When everyone else had left and only Cao Dabiao was left in the room, Qiu Tu lit a cigarette and quietly smoked as he looked at Cao Dabiao.


    At first, Cao Dabiao was bewildered as he watched Qiu Tu, but slowly, the sweat on his forehead began to accumulate, clearly guessing why Qiu Tu had kept him back.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu finally stopped beating around the bush. He flicked the ash off his cigarette and said softly, "I''ve heard that these past days, you''ve had some grievances about me?"


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao''s legs went weak, and he almost knelt to the ground.


    Bowing, he said to Qiu Tu with an awkward laugh, "Chi-Chief, what I said was unintentional."


    "Please be magnanimous and don''t take it to heart."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said indifferently, "But you were in charge of the operation this time, with much responsibility. There is too much guilt associated with it. I can''t fully absolve you."


    "So, a demotion by one level it is."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s face turned instantly pale.


    A demotion by one level might not seem much, but a First Level Detective has command rights and many special privileges that are vastly different from a Second-Class Investigator.


    Thus, being demoted to a Second-Class Investigator would greatly reduce Cao Dabiao''s identity and status within the Political Department.


    Cao Dabiao wanted to flatter Qiu Tu further, but he stopped himself as the words reached his lips, knowing this was Qiu Tu''s reprimand. Speaking ill of Qiu Tu in the past few days warranted a lesson, and it was entirely justified.


    Moreover, the fact that Qiu Tu had spared him was already something to be immensely grateful for.


    With this in mind, his attitude suddenly became much more peaceful. He gave Qiu Tu a deep bow and then said, "Thank you, Chief. I''m already very grateful that you would keep me in the Investigation Bureau."


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +5, Current Loyalty: 56]


    Seeing his reaction, Qiu Tu exhaled a ring of smoke, his face carrying a leisurely and free-spirited demeanor, "Big Biao, I''m pleased that you''ve come to understand."


    "As a man, don''t dwell on the immediate gains and losses."


    With that, he asked, "Do you know about the garden rooftop on the 9th floor?"


    Cao Dabiao was stunned for a moment, then shook his head.


    A nostalgic look crossed Qiu Tu''s face as he said, "That''s a place reserved for section chiefs and above, the middle-level officers."


    "There, you can drink tea, eat desserts, and look down at the whole of Xinjie City."


    "You can also have the waitstaff clean your uniform, prepare dinner, and even go out to buy anything you want..."


    Cao Dabiao was drawn into the scene by Qiu Tu''s description, looking somewhat mesmerized as if he could really see the garden rooftop.


    Then at that moment, Qiu Tu continued, "Big Biao, do you know of the rest room on the 12th floor?"


    Cao Dabiao again shook his head blankly.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "That''s a privilege you attain after becoming a division head."


    "Once you become a division head, you''ll...."


    Qiu Tu went on to describe to Cao Dabiao the lavish lifestyle and immense privileges of section chiefs, division heads, and even the Bureau Chief.


    Overall... it was simply passing on to Cao Dabiao, with a bit of added color, what Jia Shu had said to him today.


    This immediately beguiled Cao Dabiao, a First Level Detective unused to worldly affairs, leaving him absolutely wide-eyed.


    And in the end, Qiu Tu also gave him a meaningful look and repeated the brainwashing lines that Jia Shu had fed him, "Big Biao, achieving all this is actually very simple. That is, you must follow the right person."


    "Only by following the right person can you reach the pinnacle step by step."


    It must be said, Jia Shu''s brainwashing skills were indeed effective; as soon as Qiu Tu recited the spiel, Cao Dabiao''s face flushed red, and his eyes turned crimson with excitement!


    He firmly declared his stance to Qiu Tu, "Chief! Rest assured!"


    "From now on, I am your soldier! Wherever you point, I will strike!"


    [Cao Dabiao loyalty +8, current loyalty: 64]


    Seeing Cao Dabiao''s excited expression and his rapidly increasing loyalty, Qiu Tu''s face was filled with smiles.


    Indeed, his guess was not wrong....


    When you hold someone''s fate in your hands, when you can greatly influence someone''s future, it becomes exceptionally easy to raise their loyalty....


    ...


    The duty officers were instructed to escort Cao Dabiao back to the Guard Room. Qiu Tu then, with the interrogation records and documents in hand, went to find Jia Shu for his signature.


    Although Jia Shu was a sly fox, his credibility was still not bad.


    Having promised Qiu Tu that he would handle this matter, he really didn''t even look at the report before signing it.


    And since these investigators were all under his command, Qiu Tu was lenient with their punishments.


    A warning was noted on investigators like Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan who held high loyalty towards Qiu Tu¡ªlight treatment, fined three drinks.


    For Ding Xiaoqi, Shi Zhang, and others who had previously been dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, the penalties were heavier: a major demerit and three months'' salary docked. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The rest of the investigators had a demerit recorded and one month''s salary docked.


    As for Cao Dabiao....


    Actually, Qiu Tu had originally intended to teach him a lesson.


    But then he saw how quickly his loyalty was rising. Coupled with the fact that he was the only First Level Detective under him, after much deliberation, Qiu Tu still decided not to demote him in the end.


    He merely recorded a major demerit against him, docked three months'' salary, and suspended his command authority temporarily.


    But no matter what, he managed to keep his position as a First Level Detective.


    So, when this punishment was announced in the Guard Room, the whole place erupted!


    And when he heard that he had retained his position¡ªalready having resigned himself to a demotion¡ªCao Dabiao was overjoyed to tears, embracing Little Liu tightly and patting him with all his might several times, nearly knocking Little Liu out.


    This naturally allowed Qiu Tu to harvest another wave of loyalty.


    Following Qiu Tu''s series of twists + surprises, he firmly solidified his position in the hearts of those investigators who were already loyally inclined towards him.


    The loyalty of this group of investigators also generally reached over fifty points each, making their hearts ready to be harnessed...


    However, by this time, Qiu Tu''s attention had long since shifted away from this group of investigators.


    His "Chain Plan" was far from over.


    Upon leaving Jia Shu''s office, Qiu Tu had only walked a few steps when Liu Fuping pulled him into an empty conference room.


    Pulled into the conference room, Qiu Tu was far from panicked; instead, he confidently embraced the beautiful woman before him, then softly asked, "Have you done everything you''ve been told to do?"


    Liu Fuping rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, coquettishly saying, "It''s all done~~ Chief."


    "But, are you sure this won''t draw attention from higher-ups?"


    Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then dismissively replied, "Even if I did nothing, wouldn''t the higher-ups still pay attention to me?"


    "Besides, I haven''t really done anything, just established my image in front of all the junior investigators."


    "Think about it. Once most investigators know that by following me, not only can I get them promotions and raises, but I can also protect them. Once this image is established, it will be much more convenient for me to do certain things later on."


    At these words, Liu Fuping laughed and said, "But if something happens, can you really protect them?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled "heh heh" twice, "Whether I can protect them is another matter."


    "Image, you understand? It''s not necessarily real."


    Liu Fuping gave him an eye-roll, "Aren''t you the clever one?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and then soberly added, "Moreover, I''m doing this to give Cao Dabiao and their little group a sense of cohesion and honor."


    "This way, they''ll be even more dedicated in investigating cases for me."


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping blinked curiously and asked, "It feels like you place great importance on them? And you seem eager for them to be involved in the investigation of the female spy''s death."


    Upon saying this, she hesitated, then inquired, "Why? Is there something special about them?"


    Upon hearing this, a hint of amusement glinted in Qiu Tu''s eyes as he replied, "They do have something special about them."


    With that, he paused, "You forgot, they have been locked in the Guard Room from dawn to dusk these past several days."


    "And Vice President Tian''s mistress... died right next to them."


    "Having them investigate this case might just bring some unexpected surprises, no?"


    At these words, realization dawned on Liu Fuping''s face....


    .....


    After leaving the Guard Room and collecting their belongings, Cao Dabiao and others went to report back to the Action Division and fill out their absence forms.


    They had expected that, after spending time in the Guard Room and receiving a disciplinary action, their colleagues would scoff and ridicule them.


    But what happened was beyond their expectations.


    The record keepers of the Action Division not only processed their paperwork with beaming smiles but even the other investigators watched them with envious eyes....


    -------


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 Chapter 85 - 73: Kill Several Birds with One Stone (Seeking 7k for Readthroughs!)

    ```


    This suddenly left Cao Dabiao and the others a bit confused.


    What? Is it now an honor to be brought into the Guard Room?


    I was squatting in the Guard Room for two days, and now I''m a hero of the department?


    However, although they were incredibly puzzled inside, they still pretended to be calm on the surface.


    It was not until they had finished the procedures and Cao Dabiao and the others were preparing to leave that a familiar First Level Detective quietly pulled Cao Dabiao aside and asked softly, "Brother Biao, I heard you guys have found a big backer?"


    Cao Dabiao looked bewildered at the familiar First Level Detective.


    The detective rolled his eyes at him, "Are you still putting on an act with me? The news about you guys has spread everywhere."


    Hearing the detective''s words scratched at Cao Dabiao''s heart like a cat''s claws.


    He felt as if the whole world knew about his situation, yet he himself was the only one out of the loop!


    With this thought, he asked half-pretentiously and half-probingly, "Which matter are you referring to?"


    The detective looked at Cao Dabiao with surprise and exclaimed, "Oh, there are that many issues?"


    But after exclaiming, he still explained in a low voice, "It''s about Chief Qiu protecting you guys, that matter."


    He whispered, "Let me tell you, now both the Political Department and the Special Service Department are abuzz with the news."


    "Chief Qiu has connections, brains, and loyalty, but most importantly, he protects his own."


    "You guys just followed him for two days, and when he knew you were implicated, without a second thought, he went to the Bureau Chief and the Minister, requesting to review your case."


    "And to everyone''s surprise, the Bureau Chief and the Minister actually agreed to his request. They really let him review your case."


    "Actually, at that point, everyone was just waiting to see a joke."


    "After all, the Special Service Department team that carried out the mission with you had already gotten their punishment. All the detectives involved in the operation were demoted one rank, suspended half a year''s pay, and received a major demerit."


    "The leading First Level Detective was even temporarily suspended for incompetence and sent home for reflection."


    "Even Fang Ming from the Special Service Department, who had an argument with you, received a warning."


    "With such a punishment standard in the Special Service Department, there''s no way your team''s punishment would be much lighter since you carried out the same mission."


    "Who would have thought, Chief Qiu actually took a big risk and managed to get all of you off the hook!"


    "Not just that, the Minister''s side actually approved it!"


    Hearing the detective''s words, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the rest also showed faces of astonishment.


    They, who had been locked up in the Guard Room for two days, had no idea about the punishment results of the Special Service Department. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although they guessed theirs wouldn''t be as light, they really hadn''t expected it to be so harsh.


    Teams that carried out the same mission, yet they were treated leniently just because they had Qiu Tu''s protection; the Special Service Department, without anyone to protect them, suffered such a miserable fate?


    In such a stark contrast, Qiu Tu''s role became even more evident, and they realized how much pressure Qiu Tu had to withstand to protect them!


    At this moment, the usually reserved Chen Feng also focused on the key point of the incident. He inquired, "So, regarding our punishment, the Special Service Department didn''t raise any objections?"


    Hearing Chen Feng''s words, the detective smirked and said, "How could there not be objections?"


    He continued, "Do you know how this all came out?"


    "It started because the Special Service Department disapproved of your punishment decision and made a fuss."


    "Then, the detectives from various departments went to watch the drama, and that''s when we learned about you being saved by Chief Qiu''s efforts."


    Having said that, he couldn''t help but feel a little emotional, "Ah, you guys are really lucky. You met a boss who protects his own and has a bright future. Such a big issue casually brushed aside."


    "I heard he has now pulled you guys into a new investigative team?"


    "I think your careers are boundless from now on!"


    After the detective finished explaining the whole story, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the other detectives exchanged looks. They were feeling rather complex emotions at the moment.


    To be honest, it was only until now that they truly understood how much Qiu Tu had "sacrificed" for them, how much pressure he had endured!


    Meanwhile, amidst the envious glances of the other detectives, they inexplicably felt a sense of collective pride.


    As if they were a cut above those ordinary detectives.


    For a moment, they all stood a little straighter....


    ...


    [Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu.....Loyalty +7]


    Meanwhile, in the empty conference room of the Interrogation Section,


    Qiu Tu looked at the prompt that popped up before him and smiled. He knew his arrangements had taken effect.


    Indeed, the commotion from the Special Service Department was not an unforeseen event but Qiu Tu''s design.


    Before the interrogation, he had called his former teammate Fang Ming from the Special Service Department, revealing his intent to go easy on Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the others.


    With Fang Ming''s personality, he certainly wouldn''t gossip about it, but Qiu Tu purposely said, "There''s no need to keep this matter secret."


    And so.....the astute Fang Ming immediately understood Qiu Tu''s implication.


    Although he couldn''t figure out Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal, he was still willing to help out, seeing it as a simple favor that could earn him Qiu Tu''s gratitude.


    Therefore, right after Qiu Tu''s interrogation concluded, the news that Cao Dabiao and the others would face light punishment rapidly spread throughout the Special Service Department.


    ```


    Afterward, it was all thanks to Liu Fuping''s efforts.


    Before the interrogation, Qiu Tu pulled her aside into an empty office and asked her for a favor.


    He had asked her to find a few operatives from the Political Department to provoke those from the Special Service Department after the sentencing results were settled.


    The Special Service Department was an authoritative department, no weaker than the Political Department. Coupled with having the strongest combat power and the most staff of all the departments, they naturally couldn''t swallow this affront, so things escalated as expected.


    When the two ace departments of the Investigation Bureau clashed, it naturally caught the attention of the entire bureau.


    As a result, the unequal sentencing of people like Cao Dabiao and the operatives from the Special Service Department became widely talked about. In turn, Qiu Tu''s image as someone who was loyal and protected his own quietly took shape.


    This was why, after Cao Dabiao and others were released from the guard room, they received so many envious looks. To put it plainly, it was all Qiu Tu''s scheming.


    As for whether this game would backfire, and the Special Service Department would truly start fighting with the Political Department, affecting Qiu Tu himself?


    Firstly, Qiu Tu didn''t care. If it really did affect him and he was punished from above, he would happily take the chance to go home for reflection, passing that hot potato of a case to someone else.


    Secondly, he didn''t think it would happen.


    Because... during his time in this world, he had already figured out the real power structure of Xinjie City.


    Besides the three obvious power institutions of Xinjie City, there was actually a hidden power structure: the native residents of Xinjie and the middle and upper classes who came down from the Sanctuary.


    Based on what Qiu Tu had learned and the information obtained from Qin Shuman and Shen Lingshuang,


    he found that even though there was competition among the middle and upper classes who came down from the Sanctuary, they were very united. They saw each other as their own kind, while the original residents of Xinjie were considered a tier below them, refugees from the Cataclysm.


    This sense of superiority was mostly well concealed. It only occasionally showed in their choice of words or when handling certain matters.


    Therefore, the dissatisfaction of the lower-level operatives would not affect the relationship and attitudes of the middle and upper levels of the two departments.


    Moreover, since Yan Chen had approved this move, with the endorsement of the big boss of the Investigation Bureau behind him, what did Qiu Tu have to fear? He was only afraid that the situation wouldn''t blow up enough.


    After all, the bigger the fuss, the more his fame would grow, and the more widely the news of him forming an investigation team would spread, hence building his desired momentum!


    Having recalled his entire plan, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality.


    He glanced at the "peach" in his hand, whose shape kept changing, and then at Liu Fuping, whose eyes were starting to well up with tears. He coughed and said, "Sorry, I got carried away."


    Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red as she swatted Qiu Tu''s hand away, took a deep breath, and said indignantly, "Commander, that''s a bit too ''carried away,'' don''t you think~~"


    "Just before the interrogation, dragging someone into an empty office and accidentally grabbing on, and now this!"


    "How is someone supposed to face others after this?"


    Upon saying that, Liu Fuping playfully suggested, "Otherwise, I should just marry you. That way you can do whatever you want~~"


    At her words, Qiu Tu quickly withdrew his hand and said with a serious expression, "Sister Liu, it''s fine to play around, but don''t joke about a lifetime commitment! We''re all in this line of work; you can''t harbor other intentions toward me!"


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping spat out in annoyance, "Shameless!"


    However, being a woman who had been married before, Liu Fuping quickly adjusted her emotions after her playful banter with Qiu Tu.


    While she tidied up her disheveled clothes, she asked, "Qiu Tu, now that the case of ''Yin Caimei''s Death'' is in your hands, do you have any plans?"


    A hint of hesitation appeared on her face as she cautiously said, "I met with the team members last night and probed them in a roundabout way. It seems... none of them are likely to be the murderer."


    Qiu Tu, however, seemed unconcerned. He stretched lazily and said with a smile, "Plans?"


    "If a workman wishes to do his work well, he must first sharpen his tools!"


    "My plan is to first apply for some investigation funds, then request some investigation equipment, and then take it slow."


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu oddly.


    She couldn''t shake the feeling... that Qiu Tu''s focus on the investigation seemed like a front, that his real goal was to take advantage of it to acquire funds and equipment... or even set himself up for a convenient escape if all else failed.


    But since Qiu Tu was her superior and in charge of the investigation team, she had no choice but to follow his orders.


    So after she and Qiu Tu stepped out, she began drafting several applications as per Qiu Tu''s instructions.


    This time, the investigation team assembled by Qiu Tu was large, including Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Wang Xi, the two Special Service operatives, as well as Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and 13 other detectives.


    His motive was simple: regardless of how the case progressed, he intended to build momentum first, test the waters, then use the opportunity to gather a wave of funds and equipment¡ªand if things went south, it would also be easier to flee....


    Soon, Liu Fuping completed the personnel application form and the equipment application form as per Qiu Tu''s requirements.


    After Qiu Tu quickly reviewed them and found no issues, he went to get them signed.


    The personnel application form was easily approved. With the backing of Jia Shu and Yan Chen, both the Interrogation Section and the Action Section gave the green light. From this moment, Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Wang Xi, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and the others became his subordinates.


    While the personnel form sailed through smoothly, the equipment application form hit a snag....


    ...


    Administrative Office, Logistical Equipment Section.


    Chief Huang looked at the long list of Cataclysmic treasures Qiu Tu had requested, then took a long glance at Qiu Tu, recognizing this division head who had become famous throughout the Investigation Bureau today.


    After a moment''s hesitation, with a contemplative look, he came back to his senses, did not outright reject the request, but said with a smile, "Chief Qiu, please wait a moment. I will inquire with the office head."


    Having said that, he picked up the phone on the desk and called Secretary Bai....

 Chapter 86 - 74: The Pass to High Society (7k for Follow-up Reading!)

    Meanwhile, as the head of the Logistics and Equipment Department was calling Secretary Bai.


    Secretary Bai stood in his own office, staring blankly out the window at the scenery.


    His hand was clenched tightly, filled with sweat.


    Because only he knew what he had just experienced...


    This morning, after meeting with Qiu Tu but receiving a cold shoulder, Secretary Bai felt something was amiss.


    Having spent a month in close quarters with Qiu Tu, and having personally mentored him, he knew Qiu Tu extremely well.


    The man had the cunning, calculations, and shrewdness that most possessed in the Cataclysmic era. Yet, he also had the kindness, enthusiasm, and gratitude that many lacked.


    So, after taking such a huge risk to tip him off the night before, he couldn''t have treated Secretary Bai with such coldness!


    Hence, if he had suddenly turned so cold, it must mean that something had gone wrong!


    And Qiu Tu''s subtle shake of the head in the elevator later on confirmed Secretary Bai''s guess.


    At the time, Secretary Bai had not been able to figure out what exactly had happened. But his trust in Qiu Tu made him go along with it, cursing Qiu Tu a few times to continue the act.


    Later, when he returned to his office to work, Secretary Bai had been pondering Qiu Tu''s abnormal behavior that morning, yet he couldn''t grasp the reasons.


    All of this was until he unintentionally heard about a change in Qiu Tu after the interrogation of Cao Dabiao''s team of political investigators.


    When he learned that Jia Shu had given Qiu Tu such a great opportunity, Secretary Bai finally sensed something was wrong.


    Being the right-hand man of Yan Chen, he knew how much prejudice Jia Shu had against Qiu Tu.


    How could Jia Shu be so kind as to give this kind of opportunity to win people''s hearts to Qiu Tu? It was 100% instructed by Yan Chen!


    But why would Yan Chen give such an opportunity to Qiu Tu?


    Following this train of thought, Secretary Bai finally pieced together the truth of the whole matter and finally guessed the message Qiu Tu was trying to convey: he had been exposed! He had aroused Yan Chen''s suspicions!


    After guessing the message Qiu Tu had passed on, Secretary Bai also instantly understood why Qiu Tu deliberately distanced himself in public that morning.


    Qiu Tu was not self-preserving, but was putting on a show for others to see, letting others know that they had fallen out, giving Secretary Bai a chance to explain the whistleblower call from last night.


    Seeing the situation clearly, Secretary Bai, who knew Yan Chen''s personality well, immediately took action and made amends to Yan Chen.


    He didn''t blatantly go to explain the call to Qiu Tu from the night before but started speaking ill of Qiu Tu indirectly in front of Yan Chen.


    This indeed aroused Yan Chen''s curiosity.


    Afterward, in Yan Chen''s casual inquiry, Secretary Bai still didn''t explain but deliberately spoke ambiguously.


    He knew that no matter how much he explained, it would not be as effective as letting Yan Chen find out on his own.


    As expected, it wasn''t long before he saw political investigators from the Political Department coming to see Yan Chen, presumably to report on the conflict he had with Qiu Tu that morning.


    Although it was a minor incident, it was enough to provoke Yan Chen''s imagination, causing doubt about the real content of last night''s call, thereby reducing Secretary Bai''s own suspicion of betrayal.


    However, Secretary Bai also knew that with such a significant mistake and Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, it would be difficult to regain trust easily.


    But... as long as he could stall, Secretary Bai would always have the chance to mend the rift.


    And all of this was brought to Secretary Bai by Qiu Tu!


    So, after coming out of Yan Chen''s office and taking a deep breath, Secretary Bai also felt that he had indeed made the right judgment about Qiu Tu.


    He wasn''t the kind of opportunist who would abandon an alliance in times of peril but rather someone who would actively think of ways to help him out of trouble and plan everything for him!


    After frantically making all the necessary remedies, Secretary Bai stood by the window for more than ten minutes, scared, with sweaty palms...


    .....


    "Ring ring ring"


    Hearing the crisp ringing of the desk phone, Secretary Bai slowly returned to his senses from his thoughts.


    He took a deep breath, exhaled heavily, then turned around, walked to the desk, and picked up the handset.


    As he lifted the handset, it transmitted the voice of his subordinate, the head of Logistics, "Chief, this is Huang Hong."


    Secretary Bai uttered a grunt and inquired, "What is it, Chief Huang?"


    The Logistics chief said with a chuckle, "It''s like this, Chief Qiu from the Interrogation Section came over with an equipment request form, and he wants to apply for a batch... uh, a batch of equipment."


    "But... these are kind of special, I''m not sure how he knows about them, and I''m not sure whether we should give them to him."


    "Also... his approach seems to not follow the procedures."


    "Chief Qiu?" Upon hearing the words of the Logistics chief, Secretary Bai froze for a moment, somewhat guessing Qiu Tu''s purpose.


    He said, "Read out the list of equipment to me."


    Chief Huang read from the request form, "''Mist Index Book, Intangible Distortion Sensor, Void Dimension Surveyor, Retrospective Locator''..."


    Hearing one Cataclysm Prop name after another from Chief Huang, Secretary Bai smiled silently.


    Shortly after, he barked, "That''s enough, give the phone to Qiu Tu!"


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, the Logistics chief quickly gave the phone to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the phone, and Secretary Bai''s roar came through the handset, "Qiu Tu, have you lost your mind? Listing these items in the report!"


    "Is this how Jia Shu taught you?!"


    "Do you not know that matters of Catastrophe Power are not to be known by the common people! It''s only because Chief Huang is a manager from the Sanctuary that if he were an ordinary person, do you realize you would have leaked secrets already!"


    "I''m telling you! This is no small matter, and I will definitely report it to the Bureau Chief!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly said, "Sorry, sir. This is my first time dealing with such a case, and I didn''t know I couldn''t file the report this way."


    "Sorry, truly sorry."


    The handset''s soundproofing wasn''t good, so Chief Huang also heard Secretary Bai''s roar.


    He laughed awkwardly, then stepped aside to the water cooler to get water, leaving Qiu Tu to save face.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu cleared his throat softly.


    On the other end of the phone, Secretary Bai immediately understood Qiu Tu''s intention.


    He softly "hmm..." in response.


    Another second passed before Secretary Bai spoke up again, loudly, "You don''t know the procedure, and you didn''t think to ask?"


    "Now, take this form to your minister for approval!"


    "Those Cataclysmic treasures will be granted to you through a special process!"


    With that, Secretary Bai hung up the phone with a "snap."


    Qiu Tu, holding the phone, showed an awkward expression to Chief Huang and said, "Sorry for the trouble, Chief Huang."


    "Secretary Bai said I followed the wrong procedure, I''ll go back and start over."


    Chief Huang smiled and shook his head, "No worries. It''s all understandable."


    "After all, cases like this are special, and it''s normal to be a bit flustered the first time."


    After saying that, he put down his cup and gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "You know, Qiu Tu, we''ve met quite a few times."


    "Back when you were working in the Administrative Office, I could tell you were different, destined to soar."


    "And look, it hasn''t been long, and you''re already a Deputy Staff Chief."


    After saying that, he smiled, "You came from the Administrative Office, so I''m somewhat like your kin."


    "So, when you''re free, let''s communicate and exchange more."


    Qiu Tu, hearing this, knew he was receiving positive feedback for the image he had crafted at the Investigation Bureau, so he climbed up the pole that was offered, "No problem, Brother Huang."


    "Actually, I''ve been wanting to get in touch with you more, but... I thought you were busy, so I didn''t dare to disturb you."


    "Now that you''ve mentioned it, just name the time, and I''ll be there, even if it means braving the storm of knives."


    Seeing how readily Qiu Tu took the bait, a glint appeared in Chief Huang''s eyes, and after a moment''s thought, he said with a smile, "Why put off until tomorrow what can be done today? How about this weekend?"


    "Let''s go to Emerald Fort together and watch a few horse races? It''s an entertainment passed down from the Sanctuary. Many influential figures from Xinjie City participate."


    "Big merchants from Xinjie City Chamber of Commerce, committee members from City Hall, directors, military officers, and chiefs and deputies from our Investigation Bureau will all be there."


    At this point, he paused and gave a knowing look that all men understand, "And in the evening, I''ll take you, my dear brother, to broaden your horizons."


    "Let me tell you, since Xinjie City has been marked as a Planning Area, there are still plenty of fun things to do."


    Hearing Chief Huang''s words, Qiu Tu immediately responded with a laugh, "Then thank you, Brother Huang! I''ll definitely keep the appointment!"


    Chief Huang smiled, and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder again...


    .....


    After leaving the Logistics and Equipment Section, Qiu Tu contemplated what had just happened there.


    He had deliberately listed some Cataclysm Props on the application form and came to the Logistics Section to request them, mainly to have a call with Secretary Bai.


    After last night''s attempt to startle the snake, he and Secretary Bai were sure to be under surveillance and wiretapping by Jia Shu.


    The two couldn''t meet, communicate, or have any contact whatsoever.


    However, he needed to be sure that Secretary Bai had understood the message he sent and whether any remedial action had been taken.


    Their safety depended on it.


    Now that he had received a positive response from Secretary Bai, he felt relieved.


    Secondly, there was the unexpected joy from Chief Huang...


    As a weaker department within the Investigation Bureau, the Administrative Office didn''t have much power and didn''t rank high within the Bureau.


    However, the Logistics Section was an exception within the Administrative Office.


    In charge of all the logistics and equipment for the Investigation Bureau, the Logistics Section was one of the most coveted positions.


    Procurement of equipment, disposal of retired equipment, daily wear and tear of equipment... each aspect could entice numerous forces.


    Therefore, Chief Huang was a sought-after figure by various department heads and factions.


    And Qiu Tu was no exception.


    He wanted to handle the case of Yin Caimei and connect with various departments from Xinjie City Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, and the military to understand their true views on the Yin Caimei case, and Chief Huang''s connections were the most convenient for this.


    In plain terms, Chief Huang was the most suitable "upstairs pass" accessible to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu had two objectives in visiting the Logistics Section today, using the application for Cataclysm Props as an opportunity. Apart from briefly communicating with Secretary Bai, it was to let Chief Huang know he was already privy to highly confidential treasures and considered "one of their own," recognized by Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    He originally intended to hint at this to Chief Huang and then bide his time for the next move. Little did he expect that his efforts to build an image at the Investigation Bureau today would result in such a surprising development.


    ''Emerald Fort? Horse racing?''


    ''Big merchants from Xinjie Chamber of Commerce? Committee members, directors from City Hall? Military officers?'' sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''And special activities in the evening?''


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu looked forward to the weekend with increased anticipation...


    [10 days (Yin Caimei case closure deadline)]


    ...


    With the application form in hand, he returned to the Political Department.


    Qiu Tu went straight to Jia Shu''s office.


    He knocked on the door and Jia Shu''s voice came from inside, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu entered and saw Jia Shu studying a document intently.


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Sir! I''ve come to submit the equipment application form!"


    "Equipment application form?" Jia Shu looked up, giving Qiu Tu a puzzled glance with his characteristic fake smile.


    Qiu Tu walked over and placed the form on Jia Shu''s desk.


    Jia Shu picked up the document with a peculiar look, glanced over it, and the next second, his eyes bulged and he struggled to maintain his facade of a smile.


    He read through the document quickly, then looked up with a half-smile at Qiu Tu, and asked,


    "Qiu Tu... do you know what you''re applying for with these items?"


    ----

 Chapter 87 - 75: Somethings Off About This Satisfaction (7k For Follow-Up Reads!)

    Qiu Tu certainly knew what he was applying for.


    "Mist Index Book," "Intangible Distortion Sensor," "Void Dimension Surveyor," "Retrospective Locator"....


    Despite the grandiose names of these Cataclysmic treasures, in reality... they were all standard-issue Cataclysmic treasures from the Sanctuary.


    And the function of these Cataclysmic treasures was simple: they were to investigate clues for cases or traces of Catastrophe Power through various methods.


    For example, the "Mist Index Book" could generate an unusual fog within a certain area, and this fog would reveal all traces of Catastrophe Power residue in the vicinity.


    The "Intangible Distortion Sensor" was for sensing distortions generated by the intersection of the Boundless Heart Sea and the real world, which were typically caused by Cataclysmic abilities, allowing this Catalysmic treasure to analyze the level and type of Cataclysmic ability.


    The other two Cataclysmic items had similar functions, differing only slightly in their manufacturing materials and subsidiary features.


    Why did Qiu Tu know about these Cataclysmic treasures?


    Simple, Qin Shuman had explained them to him the night before.


    According to Qin Shuman, the standard-issue Cataclysmic treasures commonly used to investigate supernatural cases in the Sanctuary were these four types.


    The Security Department brought two sets when they came down from the Sanctuary, but how many the Political Department had, she didn''t know.


    Her guess was: they definitely had some, but not all.


    Therefore, when applying for materials, Qiu Tu simply wrote down all the treasures, intending to see how many he could get approved.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu regained his senses, looked toward Jia Shu, and replied, "Chief. I am aware. These are treasures used to investigate traces of Catastrophe Power."


    Upon hearing this, Jia Shu put down his pen, crossed his hands beneath his chin, and looked at Qiu Tu with an exploratory gaze. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His eyes, narrow and profound behind his glasses, seemed as if they could see right through one''s heart.


    After staring for a full two seconds, his face suddenly brightened with a faint smile, and he said, "I remember telling you that as long as you close this case successfully, it would be sufficient."


    "So... give me a reason?"


    If Qiu Tu dared to test the waters with the application, he naturally had an excuse ready.


    He looked at Jia Shu and answered earnestly, "Chief, if we''re putting on an act, we should do it thoroughly. If it were an ordinary murder case, we could simply frame an offender and fabricate some evidence to close the case. But this is a major case that so many eyes in Xinjie City are watching."


    "I''m aware of Cataclysmic abilities, Cataclysmic treasures. Surely those important figures can''t be ignorant of them, can they?"


    "If I just conducted a superficial investigation for a few days, without even using the treasures to detect traces of Cataclysm, and close the case as an ordinary murder, do you think they would believe it?"


    "Wouldn''t this approach be too slipshod?"


    Seeing that Jia Shu''s eyes showed contemplation, Qiu Tu continued, "Actually, it makes no difference to me. After all, I''m just a small figure."


    "What I''m worried about is that if this matter is handled too carelessly, the Municipal Committee or the military might seize upon it."


    "At that time, it could cause trouble for you and the Bureau Chief..."


    Toward the end, Qiu Tu''s voice grew fainter, almost inaudible....


    The office slowly became quiet.


    Jia Shu silently pondered....


    After a moment, his face revealed a sardonic smile, then he picked up the pen and made a few changes to the document before saying, "You make a good point. Let''s go with your plan."


    After making the changes, Jia Shu signed the document and handed it to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu quickly stepped forward, took the document with both hands, then cast an imperceptible glance over it: Of the four Cataclysmic items, only the "Mist Index Book" was left, and it also noted the borrowing time: one week.


    "By the way, Qiu Tu. Where did you learn so much about these Cataclysmic treasures?"


    Just as Qiu Tu received the document and was slightly distracted, Jia Shu suddenly asked.


    At the sound of his words, Qiu Tu''s heart tightened, and he quickly gathered his wandering thoughts. Then he looked up at Jia Shu, smiled, and said, "From the Security Department. Last night, after I met with them, I learned about these treasures from their information."


    He fabricated a lie, "Last night, following your directive, I explained to them the situation that both you and the Bureau Chief have strange abilities and seemed a bit abnormal. They indeed showed great interest."


    "Then, under subtle prodding, they briefly explained Cataclysmic abilities and Cataclysmic items to me¡ªlargely consistent with the contents of the materials you had given me before."


    "Because I come from an investigator background, I naturally grew curious and inquired about what to do if these supernatural powers were used by a murderer to commit crimes."


    "They then introduced me to a few types of investigative Cataclysmic treasures commonly used by the Security Department."


    "Today, when forming the investigative team, I thought of these Cataclysmic items, and also of the prospect of Catastrophe Power being used for murder. So I filed an application report to you."


    Qiu Tu''s story was watertight, hence Jia Shu nodded with a mocking smile, "I understand."


    He said, "Then take this application to the logistics section for record-keeping. They''ll have someone specifically unseal the Cataclysmic treasures upon receiving the application form."


    "These Cataclysmic treasures are quite dangerous and shouldn''t be easily dispersed, so they''ll need to be picked up by me personally tomorrow."


    "After I collect them, I''ll have them delivered to you."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu hastily said, "When the time comes, Minister, you can just call me, and I''ll come to collect them."


    Jia Shu looked at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile, "Chief Qiu is still quite sensible."


    After finishing his encouragement, he said, "Do well on the case. Don''t disappoint me."


    Qiu Tu promptly saluted, "Yes, Chief!"


    After saluting, seeing that Jia Shu had lowered his head to continue reviewing documents, Qiu Tu also turned to leave the office.


    However, having reached the door, Qiu Tu paused for a moment and then slowly stopped.


    He turned around and asked a question, "Chief, I remember you mentioned that the outcome of this case needs to satisfy both the political and commercial sectors of Xinjie City."


    "I have a question, if the outcome pleases some and displeases others, whose opinion should I prioritize?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Jia Shu slowly raised his head. His eyes, narrow and deep behind his glasses, stared intently at Qiu Tu, and then he said indifferently, "Vice President Tian."


    Hearing the answer Jia Shu gave, Qiu Tu nodded, "I understand, Chief."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated and pushed open the door, leaving the office...


    But after he left, in the empty office, Jia Shu remained for a long time without looking down at the documents.


    He gazed at the spot where Qiu Tu had just stood, a manic smile slowly forming on his face. His eyes suddenly turned red, the desire within seeming to be on the verge of bursting out uncontrollably.


    In that moment, the space itself seemed to subtly tremble, as if something terrifying was about to happen.


    Possibly sensing his own loss of control, Jia Shu took several deep breaths, forcibly suppressing his emotions. Then his tongue suddenly elongated, stretching out to lick his lips before he whispered, "Interesting... very interesting..."


    "But there''s no rush, no hurry at all. It''s not often that you come across such an intriguing prey; you have to properly nurture it before devouring it when it''s ripe..."


    [Jia Shu: Suspicion-0, Satisfaction+5]


    ...


    Stepping out of Jia Shu''s office and seeing the "Satisfaction" prompt floating before his eyes, Qiu Tu paused momentarily, somewhat bewildered.


    He recalled everything that had happened in Jia Shu''s office.


    It seemed... he hadn''t felt that he had performed exceptionally well.


    Why had Jia Shu''s satisfaction with him suddenly increased by so much?


    Could it be... because of accumulated efforts finally paying off?


    He hadn''t exposed any flaws, which had finally satisfied him?


    But... that didn''t seem right either. Shouldn''t the suspicion have decreased a bit?


    Qiu Tu found it a bit perplexing.


    However, since he couldn''t see the exact numbers for Jia Shu''s suspicion or satisfaction, there was too little information to analyze, so he could only temporarily push these thoughts to the back of his mind.


    After all, an increase in satisfaction was always a good thing. If he couldn''t figure it out, then so be it.


    It''s not like Jia Shu''s satisfaction was special, where the higher it was, the more dangerous, right?


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu followed Jia Shu''s instructions and went to the logistics department to submit the form once again.


    This time, with Jia Shu''s signature and notes on it, Chief Huang finally accepted the form, and his gaze towards Qiu Tu became friendlier.


    Clearly, he was gradually starting to see Qiu Tu as one of their own.


    Qiu Tu speculated that information related to Cataclysmic ability might be an implicit threshold.


    To the middle management, natives who had obtained such information from the higher-ups were regarded as having gained trust and could be considered half-insiders.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu and Chief Huang once again set a time to meet over the weekend. After exchanging a few more casual words, Qiu Tu left the logistics department.


    At noon, he ate lunch on the garden terrace on the 9th floor.


    In the afternoon, all the formalities for the establishment of the investigation team were finally completed. The investigation team was officially established.


    Possibly because of the stir Qiu Tu had caused at the Investigation Bureau today, the investigation team was very motivated.


    So Qiu Tu didn''t delay and took advantage of the momentum to start assigning tasks directly.


    He looked around at the twenty or so people present and then said, "Liu Fuping, Song Qing."


    "Present!" Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the two came forward.


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the inspection department to get the case files."


    "Yes!" The two female investigators accepted the command.


    After arranging for those two, Qiu Tu turned to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan."


    The two stepped forward, "Present!"


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the morgue to handle the paperwork, request to review the autopsy records, and have them prepare a separate morgue. I may personally examine the deceased''s body from this afternoon to tomorrow night."


    Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan saluted, "Yes!"


    Next, Qiu Tu turned to Wang Xi, "Wang Xi, Ding Xiaoliu."


    "Present!"


    Qiu Tu said, "You two go to the Surveillance Department and apply to retrieve all surveillance videos related to the deceased from the past couple of days."


    "Yes!"


    Following that, Qiu Tu assigned all the tasks one by one. Only Cao Dabiao and a few other investigators remained in the conference room.


    This made people like Cao Dabiao, who were eager to prove themselves, as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    So, after the other investigators had left according to their assignments, Cao Dabiao scurried up to Qiu Tu''s side and, with a hopeful expression, asked, "Chief, what about me? What about me?"


    Seeing his impatience, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Then he said, "Don''t worry, I haven''t forgotten about you."


    After that, he dropped the smile and quietly said, "Big Biao. The one I trust most is you." "That''s why I have an arduous task for you."


    Cao Dabiao''s spirits lifted upon hearing this.


    Qiu Tu put an arm around his neck and continued in a lowered voice, "I need you to investigate the movements of Vice President Tian and those transport merchants over the past three days."


    "Figure out where they went, who they met, and what time they left."


    "If you have connections, try to check the movements of their confidants as well."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was stunned at first. Then pointing at his own chubby face with his right index finger, his expression turned blank as he said, "Huh? Me? I''m supposed to investigate Vice President Tian and those big merchants?"


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue, "It''s not just you."

 Chapter 88 - 76: The Bizarre Book (7k Pleads for Follow-Up Reads)

    At this point, Qiu Tu pointed to the remaining seven or eight detectives and said, "They''re all at your disposal." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "My requirements are very simple, absolutely no scare away the snake, we can''t let these big businessmen detect us."


    Cao Dabiao''s mouth slowly gaped open, "We''re not to let them detect us either?"


    At that moment, Cao Dabiao suddenly felt that being locked in the guard room wasn''t so bad; at least he wouldn''t have to face such an impossible mission.


    However, seeing the encouraging look in Qiu Tu''s eyes and thinking about the pressure Qiu Tu was under for his sake, Cao Dabiao clenched his teeth and then said resolutely, "Rest assured, Chief! I will complete the mission!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled and patted Cao Dabiao on the shoulder, continuing to pua, "Big Biao, you''re the person I trust the most in the entire Investigation Bureau. Don''t let me down."


    Cao Dabiao nodded vigorously! Then he took the remaining detectives and left in a hurry!


    After all members were dispatched, Qiu Tu walked to the window of the empty conference room, looking out at the view and quietly contemplating.


    Although Jia Shu had been hinting that he could randomly find someone to take the blame and close the case, Qiu Tu... believed that would be a dead end.


    If the case could be resolved so easily, the "Crisis Intuition" wouldn''t have kicked in.


    After all, with such high attention on the case, the eyes of so many powerful and wealthy people were on it. Creating a sham case, he might get away with it if it isn''t exposed. But if it is exposed, neither Jia Shu nor Yan Chen would protect him. Then he would be a disposable pawn that could easily be sacrificed.


    Therefore, the investigation into this case must continue. Only by finding the real culprit can he be in a position to attack or defend.


    You must understand, this case involves several major forces. No matter who is behind it, as long as the truth is uncovered, he would essentially have control over the other party''s vulnerability.


    He could trade for benefits if advancing, or turn over the murderer for self-preservation if retreating.


    Perhaps, that was the real solution to this crisis.


    It''s just that.... what made him uneasy was Jia Shu''s slightly abnormal behavior today.


    As far as Qiu Tu knew, Jia Shu, as Yan Chen''s right-hand man, should always be loyal to Yan Chen and to the Investigation Bureau.


    But... Jia Shu''s attitude today was ambiguous.


    This made him worry not only about a deeper conspiracy behind the death of the female spy but also about... whether the Political Department had silenced her.


    If it really was the Political Department that did the silencing, then he would have been severely manipulated, and the crisis would indeed be troublesome!


    Thinking along these lines, the hands behind Qiu Tu''s back clenched involuntarily.....


    .....


    Ten minutes later, several groups of detectives began to return, and Qiu Tu''s hands became filled with more and more information about the case.


    First was the physical examination report conducted by the Interrogation Section after Yin Caimei (the female spy) had been captured.


    All the indicators were very normal; there were no external injuries on the body, nor any secret diseases found.


    Then came Yin Caimei''s physical examination after the interrogation that night.


    There were residues of various interrogation drugs in her body, a broken little finger on the right hand, and multiple external injuries and bruises on her body. But none were fatally dangerous.


    Then there was the surveillance video brought back from the Inspection Department.


    The surveillance showed that Yin Caimei was sent back to the guard room after the interrogation ended and the physical examination was done. Thereafter, her behavior in the guard room was completely normal, and no other non-guard staff approached her.


    Until 6 o''clock last night, Yin Caimei had finished her meal and was resting on the bed, and even picked up a book to read.


    However, at 9 o''clock, while reading, Yin Caimei suddenly fell from the bed to the ground.


    The guard patrolling outside sensed something was wrong, hurriedly opened the guard room to check, and found that she was already breathless.


    And because Qiu Tu had taken over the case,


    All the evidence, such as the book Yin Caimei was reading and the leftover meal that night, had all been transferred to the Investigation Bureau.


    Qiu Tu didn''t pay attention to anything else but first put on his gloves and picked up the book that Yin Caimei had been reading before her death.


    It was a book with a black cover that looked somewhat oppressive and eerie.


    The cover had the title: "Brave New World".


    Qiu Tu opened the book, and on the title page, there was a row of delicate writing:


    "Death is only the disappearance of the flesh; the spirit remains connected to the world. Only a world where spirit eternally exists is the last hope for our tribe tormented by suffering."


    After reading the content on the title page, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed, then he opened the book and briefly flipped through a few pages.


    Most of the content in the book was metaphysical theory or visions and descriptions of the "Eternal Spirit World," with no other content.


    But... for some reason, looking at this book, Qiu Tu felt an inexplicable unease.


    Ordinary people may not think much of this book, just a regular publication. But Qiu Tu was a Cataclysmic.


    He truly knew that above the real material world, there existed a "Boundless Heart Sea" of the Spirit World.


    That was the source of the world''s cataclysm and the source of all supernatural beings'' powers.


    And this book just happened to describe a spirit world. Moreover, it called for approaching that world through death.


    Is this coincidence? Or intentional?


    And... who gave this book to Yin Caimei? What was their purpose?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu immediately arranged for Liu Fuping and Song Qing to investigate the book''s origin.


    Perhaps because it was not highly confidential, the answer came quickly: Yin Caimei had brought the book with her.


    Due to her special identity, after being captured, the department specifically authorized her to bring a limited amount of clothes and personal belongings. And this book was among them.


    The person who approved the request was... Jia Shu.


    Qiu Tu stared at the black book in his hands, took a deep breath, his gaze growing deeper.


    Before he could recover, the last group of detectives: Chen Feng and Zhu Huoyan returned.


    And they brought Qiu Tu news he had not at all anticipated:


    Yin Caimei''s body had not been autopsied, so there was no post-mortem report.


    However, the morgue could arrange an autopsy room for Qiu Tu''s team, allowing them to schedule a suitable forensic pathologist for the initial autopsy.


    "No autopsy was performed?" Hearing this news, not even Qiu Tu was the most surprised, but Liu Fuping was.


    Her entire complexion changed, as if she realized something, and she stood frozen in place, her face shifting through various expressions.


    For a moment, she fiercely turned to look at Qiu Tu, her face filled with shock and disbelief.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected this result either.


    His brows were nearly furrowed into the shape of the character "´¨".


    The information revealed by the lack of autopsy was truly too peculiar.


    This meant that after Yin Caimei died, Jia Shu never bothered with her body, nor did he investigate the cause of her death.


    And following that line of thought, there were only two possibilities for Jia Shu''s actions.


    One, Jia Shu simply didn''t care about Yin Caimei''s life or death, nor the subsequent impact of her demise.


    Two, he knew that Yin Caimei would die. He might even have known the cause of death.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that the whole situation was developing towards the worst possibility.


    He pondered quietly for a moment, then turned to Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, and Wang Xi, arranging, "Chen Feng, you take Zhu Huoyan and Wang Xi to apply for a forensic pathologist to perform an autopsy."


    Chen Feng accepted the order and was just about to leave with his team.


    Qiu Tu stopped him again, "Wait a moment. Leave the communicator behind."


    Chen Feng didn''t understand why Qiu Tu would make this decision, but with his Loyalty over 60, he obediently left the communicator behind.


    After he left, Qiu Tu fiddled with the communicator he had left behind, then stood up, instructed the team members to continue analyzing the case, and prepared to step out to make a call.


    But as soon as he walked out of the conference room, he heard footsteps behind him.


    Qiu Tu turned his head and saw Liu Fuping with a frosty face following him out.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, said nothing, and headed straight for another empty conference room opposite them.


    Liu Fuping didn''t stop either, following him into that empty conference room.


    After glancing around the empty conference room to make sure no one else was there, Liu Fuping closed the door and finally dropped the pretense.


    For the first time in front of Qiu Tu, this beautiful young woman revealed her extraordinary nature.


    She looked up at Qiu Tu with a cold tone, "Qiu Tu! You knew! You knew all along! This is a trap!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze held a hint of complexity. He lowered his head to take out a cigarette from his pocket, ready to smoke one, but Liu Fuping snatched it away and threw it to the ground, then stood still, staring up at him.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed deeply and then gently wrapped his arms around the beautiful young woman in front of him.


    Liu Fuping stiffened for a moment.


    Possibly feeling she had been a bit too forceful, she let out a light sigh, her body about to relax, ready to have a proper talk with Qiu Tu.


    But at that moment, suddenly, she felt Qiu Tu''s embrace tighten fiercely!


    It felt as though two stone walls were crashing together, trying to crush her!


    It was as if she realized something, and she struggled violently!


    However, her strength seemed utterly insignificant in front of Qiu Tu! All her effort couldn''t even stop him by a fraction!


    "Crack...crack..." Liu Fuping even heard the sound of her own bones being crushed under the pressure.


    She struggled desperately, then looked up at Qiu Tu.


    But all she saw were a pair of eyes as dark as the abyss.


    In that moment, she truly felt the fear of death...


    "Please, please, I beg you!"


    Struggling to get the words out, Liu Fuping''s eyes reddened, pleadingly looking at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu watched her with a profound gaze, just looking.


    A second, two seconds...just when Liu Fuping felt utterly desperate, Qiu Tu suddenly let go of his hold.


    Liu Fuping collapsed to the ground with a thud, stumbled, and fell.


    But she hardly noticed, taking deep breaths, her eyes wide with the relief of someone who just escaped death.


    Qiu Tu emotionlessly stepped over her, walked to the window, and coldly dropped a sentence, "There won''t be a next time."


    "For a spy like you, killing you wouldn''t get me penalized."


    Liu Fuping swallowed hard, her face filled with fear as she looked towards Qiu Tu.


    She always thought that after sharing a secret with Qiu Tu for the past two days and their physical intimacies, even if Qiu Tu hadn''t fallen for her, he would at least have a modicum of pity and cherish her.


    But there was none.


    Just now, she truly smelled the scent of death.


    "Snap."


    Hearing that crisp sound, Liu Fuping turned towards it, quickly checking her waist, and then belatedly realized that her gun had been taken by Qiu Tu again.


    How little must this man trust her...


    For some reason, Liu Fuping felt a sense of defeat.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    Looking outside the window, he explained indifferently, "I only guessed everything this morning."


    "It''s all been a trap."


    "From the moment your handler passed you information last night and you began your investigation, both of you were already trapped."


    "So, even if I guessed the truth, telling you would be pointless. You must have been monitored already and wouldn''t be able to escape."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s expression kept changing.


    And at that moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but add, "Unfortunately, I feel like I may have been trapped today as well."


    After saying that, as if a thought suddenly struck him, he turned around and asked, "By the way, who is your handler?"


    Liu Fuping: ??


    -------

 Chapter 89 - 77: Innate Consort Holy Body (7k for follow-up reading!)

    At that moment, Liu Fuping thought she was hallucinating.


    Who would attempt to kill her and then casually ask about her superior as if nothing had happened?


    But seeing Qiu Tu''s serious expression and probing eyes, Liu Fuping knew the man before her was not joking.


    ''What a bastard!''


    She cursed in her heart, but the lingering fear from her near-death experience stopped Liu Fuping from outright rejecting Qiu Tu, and she evaded the question, "Why do you ask about my superior?"


    Qiu Tu leaned against the windowsill, looking at her with a half-smile, "You and your superior have been exposed. Jia Shu won''t let you off. So hiding your identity is useless now."


    "Why not come clean with me? Right now, we''re in the same boat. Who knows, I might come up with a way for us to escape from this desperate situation."


    Liu Fuping didn''t immediately respond to Qiu Tu''s words.


    She first straightened her disheveled clothes, even pulling up the loose collar over her chest¡ªconsidering Qiu Tu''s recent treatment of her, he didn''t deserve to ''take advantage'' of her!


    Then she pushed herself up from the ground.


    As she did these things, she was constantly thinking about what Qiu Tu had said.


    So when she stood up, she naturally asked, "What do you mean when you say that you''ve also fallen into a trap and that we''re both ''grasshoppers on the same string''?"


    Qiu Tu fiddled with the communicator in his hand, his eyes slightly deep, "The reason I took on this case is because of Jia Shu''s arrangement."


    "He didn''t want me to solve the case, just to investigate casually, fabricate some evidence, identify a suspect, and close the case."


    "I didn''t understand it at first, but afterwards, the more I thought about it, the more wrong it felt."


    "With such high-profile attention on this case from the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, City Hall, and the military, could simply pinning the crime on someone really cover it up?"


    "And if it didn''t cover up, would Jia Shu and Yan Chen choose to protect me, or to sacrifice me?"


    "So, after much thought, I decided to first clear up the case, find the real culprit, and then make a slow decision."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused and then picked a cigarette up from the ground, putting it back in his pocket, "And who knew, just as I started on the case today, I found that something is even more amiss."


    "Allowing Yin Caimei, such an important suspect, to carry personal belongings?"


    "And among those personal items, there was a book with extremely strong seductive power, suspected to be banned?"


    "What''s more unsettling is, for an important suspect like her, the department didn''t care about her death after 24 hours: no investigation was conducted, no suspects were detained, they didn''t even conduct an autopsy."


    "This completely contradicts her status as an important suspect and doesn''t match up to the department''s level of concern for this case."


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Liu Fuping, "You must have also realized that you had fallen into a trap because of this, right?"


    Liu Fuping nodded slightly.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Following these suspicions, if I investigate backwards, it seems like the higher-ups'' attitude towards this case is problematic."


    He pointed to the ceiling, "They seem not to care about the truth of this case."


    "That''s really not right."


    Qiu Tu said, "Even for a rigged case, shouldn''t they start falsifying it only after finding that the case couldn''t proceed, with no clues left, or after they''ve found the culprit but realized the implications were too vast to pursue further?"


    "To not investigate the case at all and directly request a fake case, isn''t that a bit exaggerated?"


    Liu Fuping had actually sensed something peculiar about the case earlier, but felt overwhelmed by the complexity and couldn''t find a breakthrough.


    Now, with Qiu Tu piecing together the clues, a bolt of lightning flashed through her mind, and she understood his point.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with astonishment and said, "So... you suspect Yin Caimei was silenced by the Political Department themselves?!"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    With this line of thinking, Liu Fuping suddenly understood the "trap" and the "grasshopper on the same string" references Qiu Tu had been making. Her brain whirred, rapidly piecing together information. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a moment, she widened her eyes at Qiu Tu, "So, you''ve realized you''re in a no-win situation?"


    "If you investigate further, you might reach the higher-ups."


    "If you conceal it, you''re likely unable to keep it hidden?"


    Finally, Qiu Tu nodded in satisfaction, "You''ve finally caught on."


    "You!" Liu Fuping glared at Qiu Tu, her chest heaving rapidly with anger.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept her and then drifted away, somewhat deflated in spirit. Not that Liu Fuping''s impassioned demeanor wasn''t moving, but Qiu Tu really wasn''t in the mood right now.


    Besides, he wasn''t trying to belittle Liu Fuping. Compared to Qin Shuman, Liu Fuping''s abilities and professional quality indeed fell far short.


    With many matters, all it took was a glance from Qiu Tu, or even... no glance at all, and Qin Shuman would guess Qiu Tu''s intention and thoughts and then cooperate accordingly.


    As for Liu Fuping...


    After realizing she had fallen into a trap, her first action was to actually come and confront him?!


    This seriously made Qiu Tu question how much professional training she had undergone.


    If not for the fact that intelligence couldn''t be transmitted by "X", Qiu Tu really wanted to help her smarten up forcefully.


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was mentally criticizing Liu Fuping, she had finally made up her mind.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "I can''t tell you who my superior is."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, she quietly explained, "Because he might not have been exposed."


    "The information this time didn''t come from him."


    "But from a higher-up in the department who admires me."


    ```


    Gossip is human nature, so when Qiu Tu heard it, he immediately became interested, "Which high-level official?"


    "Does he know you''re a spy?"


    Liu Fuping''s face showed a bit of struggle, and after a moment, she said, "It''s... Deputy Director Tang."


    "Deputy Director Tang?" Qiu Tu blinked and looked utterly baffled.


    He quickly rifled through his memory for information about this big shot.


    After a moment, he froze, then looked at Liu Fuping with a shocked expression, "Deputy Director Tang? You two?!"


    There was a rare blush on Liu Fuping''s cheeks, but as a married woman, she was different. The next second, she composed herself and instead questioned Qiu Tu, "What?! Is there a problem with that?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    "It''s not that it''s impossible. It''s just unexpected...." Qiu Tu wore a strange expression.


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but Liu Fuping understood his meaning...


    Deputy Director Tang, whose real name was Tang Feifei, was the only female among the nine high-ranking officials of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    She was just over 30, with a pretty face but wheat-colored skin, and her short hair added to her spirited bearing.


    Apart from some impressions of her appearance, Qiu Tu''s other memory of her was... her "good" figure.


    This "good" wasn''t the same as Liu Fuping''s delicate and feminine curves, but rather... agile like a female leopard.


    Her chest was robust, and her limbs were covered in streamlined muscles. Just one look and you could tell she was brimming with explosive power, the type that could run 1000 meters in one breath without getting winded.


    She was a woman who had climbed to the top of an aggressive organization like the Investigation Bureau; no one dared to underestimate her.


    And now, unexpectedly... she was involved with Liu Fuping?!


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu inexplicably felt a chill down his back.


    Was he falling into a den of mistresses of the high and mighty? Having provoked the Bureau Chief''s mistress was one thing, but now he had gotten entangled with the Deputy Director''s significant other?


    Good heavens, was he genetically destined to be rebellious?


    Moreover, Yan Chen was already troublesome enough, but Tang Feifei, a woman in a high position, was even more so. Her dark and calculating thoughts were no less than Yan Chen''s.


    Plus, given a woman''s extreme nature, if she found out about his ambiguous behavior with Liu Fuping, who knows, she might chop him into pieces and feed him to dogs.


    Out of nowhere, Qiu Tu thought of his first day at the Interrogation Section, recalling the gossip about Liu Fuping and the neighboring Section Chief Liu.


    He wondered if that gentleman was still safe and sound....


    As he entertained these wild thoughts for a while, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping with a complex gaze and remarked, "I knew Sister Liu you were lethal to men, but I never imagined that even women couldn''t escape your charm."


    Liu Fuping gave Qiu Tu an annoyed glance, not bothering to explain, but asked, "Now you know who''s on my side. What do you think?"


    Qiu Tu propped his chin and fell into deep thought.


    If he remembered correctly, Tang Feifei was the Deputy Director of Administration at the Investigation Bureau, primarily responsible for training, organization, finance, and administrative tasks.


    But because Yan Chen was domineering and had many confidants, Tang Feifei spent most of her time effectively sidelined.


    Thus, there was a natural conflict between Tang Feifei and Yan Chen.


    And this case with the female spy was most likely engineered by Yan Chen''s camp. If Tang Feifei knew, was there a chance she''d take the opportunity to act?


    Thinking of this... Qiu Tu''s eyes brightened as he suddenly felt a breakthrough in thought.


    Yan Chen already knew Tang Feifei leaked intelligence to Liu Fuping, a spy whose allegiance was unknown, holding leverage over Tang Feifei.


    And if Tang Feifei got ahold of evidence implicating Yan Chen and Jia Shu in a cover-up to silence a key suspect...?


    If both sides thought they had leverage over the other, they might engage in some interesting conflict that would throw the entire situation into chaos?


    And if things got chaotic, he might have the chance to fish in troubled waters and make his escape? Perhaps then, the "Countdown Crisis" would be resolved?


    The more he contemplated, the more feasible the idea seemed to Qiu Tu...


    However, the one thing he had to be careful about in this plan was that he, being at the center of the storm, had to ensure his own safety. He didn''t want to become collateral damage before the war even began.


    But that wasn''t hard to achieve.


    Essentially, it boiled down to one strategy: stalling!


    After all, he knew the final deadline for this case: 10 days.


    He had to keep investigating within these 10 days but never conclude the case.


    Then, if he could present evidence of Jia Shu''s cover-up to Tang Feifei one step ahead, the matter would turn into a showdown between two strong factions, unrelated to him.


    Besides, the key to this entire affair was... he couldn''t give either faction a chance to reconcile or negotiate.


    He had to drag Tang Feifei down with him and make sure she couldn''t get out.


    To achieve this...


    With that, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon Liu Fuping...


    Perhaps Qiu Tu had been silent for too long, and Liu Fuping had gotten a bit distracted. Suddenly sensing Qiu Tu''s profound gaze, she couldn''t help but look up, "What is it?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu smiled very gently,


    "Sister Liu, do you want to survive? Do you want to continue with your mission?"


    For some reason, looking at Qiu Tu''s handsome smile, Liu Fuping felt a shudder.


    She had the feeling that Qiu Tu at this moment was even more terrifying than the brutal Qiu Tu before. Like a devil getting ready to toy with people''s hearts.....


    ```

 Chapter 90 - 78 This Woman has Transformed (7k for follow-up reads!)

    But it must be said, the current Qiu Tu indeed has become more charming and easily attracts people to want to continue the conversation....


    So, even though alarm bells were sounding in her head, Liu Fuping still, as if possessed by a ghost or god, asked, "What plan have you thought of?"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered twice, and he asked with a smile, "Tang Feifei doesn''t know your identity, right?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment but finally nodded slightly and explained, "She only told me the secret beforehand because I was involved in the interrogation and was worried about me being influenced."


    Qiu Tu nodded and wasn''t surprised.


    After all, Tang Feifei was a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau, if she knowingly leaked secrets to Liu Fuping, aware that she was a spy. Then... it would be Qiu Tu''s turn to get promoted and make a fortune.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and made a "pulling down" gesture with a smile, "Drag her down."


    "Tell her about the trickery in this case and let her investigate it."


    Liu Fuping frowned slightly and looked at Qiu Tu, "Is it that simple?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head with a smile, "Of course not."


    "Besides that, you must crazily steal intelligence, tell her the clues and details I''ve uncovered, and then... using her trust, extract all kinds of secret intel from the Investigation Bureau."


    Liu Fuping clearly didn''t understand, "Why is that?"


    Qiu Tu gazed at her deeply, his smile very sunny, "This is to prove that to bring down Yan Chen, she''s willing to betray the Investigation Bureau''s secrets and exchange information with you, the spy."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s back instantly turned cold.


    She looked at Qiu Tu in surprise, "You''re really insane!"


    "You are framing and setting up a high-ranking official!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu walked over to her, embraced her gently, and then whispered in her ear, "I''m just adding a layer of insurance."


    "If she proceeds as planned, then this insurance will never need to be used."


    "But if she regrets it and decides to reconcile with Yan Chen, making a deal, then at least we have a chip that prevents her from backing out."


    Being embraced by Qiu Tu once again, Liu Fuping visibly trembled. But after realizing that Qiu Tu wasn''t as rough as before, her body gradually softened.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s expression kept changing.


    After a moment, she bitterly said, "You really are no good!"


    Qiu Tu laughed upon hearing this, looked out the window, and said softly, "Actually, I wasn''t always like this."


    "I used to be very kind and naive."


    "Believing in kindness to others, believing that only through enduring the greatest hardships can one become a superior person."


    "I lived in a daze like this for many years. Until one day, I injured my foot, someone brought me a bowl of pig''s feet, telling me ''the ancestors said eat what you want to complement''. At that moment, I finally came to a realization."


    "Enduring hardship won''t make you a superior person; no matter how much hardship you eat, it only makes you suffer more, only by "eating" people... can you become a superior person!"


    He held Liu Fuping in his arms. The beautiful woman''s soft body was like water in his embrace, her gaze a bit unfocused, somewhat carried away.


    The two embraced each other as they looked out the window.


    After a while, Liu Fuping slowly came back to her senses, and this time, her mood seemed much calmer, no longer so "unprofessional."


    She leaned into Qiu Tu''s arms, then asked softly, "What if she doesn''t fall for it, doesn''t take the bait?"


    Qiu Tu replied softly, "Some things are not done only when there is no chance of failure but are done in the hope of seeing a chance for success."


    "How can you know for sure that it won''t work if you don''t try?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping fell silent for a while, then suddenly her face lit up with a smile, "Alright~ I got it, boss."


    At that moment, she seemed to become somewhat unfamiliar.


    Qiu Tu looked down at her.


    But she suddenly turned around, trapping Qiu Tu''s arms with her own.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reflexively tried to exert force.


    At that moment, Liu Fuping suddenly reached out and patted his handsome face, saying coyly, "Good little brother, wouldn''t all that strength be wasted if used now? Come over to your sister''s house tonight."


    Qiu Tu paused, and Liu Fuping took the opportunity to step out of his embrace with a smile.


    After leaving Qiu Tu''s embrace, Liu Fuping pulled down her neckline, revealing her snow-white cleavage.


    Then she glanced at Qiu Tu, her eyebrows arching slightly before she strode out of the empty conference room.


    With her lips curled up and her ample bosom bouncing, she walked with the air of a seductress, full of allure.


    This woman seemed to have undergone a transformation within minutes.


    Qiu Tu watched the beautiful woman in surprise.


    Compared to her previous half-baked state, she now truly looked a bit like a female spy....


    In the past, although Qiu Tu occasionally took liberties with her, he really wasn''t that interested in her.


    But now... if something were to happen between them, Qiu Tu would be willing to be the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau, live in a garden villa, surrounded by beauties, driving luxury cars!


    After silently musing to himself, Qiu Tu walked to the door, closed the door to the empty conference room, and locked it.


    Although Liu Fuping seemed to have truly had an epiphany, whether this plan could be executed still depended on her subsequent actions.


    Ability is related to attitude, but it also needs to be improved step by step.


    So, what Qiu Tu needed to do now was to add a few layers of insurance for himself, to avoid being left without alternatives if the plan failed.


    And his insurance was simple.


    One was that he needed to continue investigating this case. To see if the truth matched what he had guessed.


    Two was that he needed to pull more factions into the fray, to guarantee his safety...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out Chen Feng''s communicator and made a call to Lin Zuo.


    "Beep... beep... beep..."


    The phone was answered after just a couple of rings.


    This time, before Lin Zuo could speak, Qiu Tu directly said, "416."


    Lin Zuo''s speech cut off, and after a second''s silence, he asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu spoke concisely, "I''m looking for her."


    The sounds of Lin Zuo getting up came through the receiver.


    After a while, there was a knock at the door, followed by the sound of opening the door, and then the conversation between the reticent Lin Zuo and Qin Shuman, "Is there something you need?"


    "It''s a call from Qiu Tu."


    "Okay."


    Shortly after, the somewhat unfamiliar yet familiar voice of Qin Shuman rang in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Hello? Is that you?"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t tell if it was an illusion, but he felt that Qin Shuman''s voice seemed tired and low.


    Qiu Tu hummed a confirmation, "It''s me."


    Then he added, "I''ve run into some issues here."


    "I might need your help."


    Qin Shuman didn''t even ask what the issue was before agreeing, "All right, tonight, I''ll come to you."


    A smile crept onto Qiu Tu''s lips.


    See, it''s always comfortable to cooperate with smart people.


    With just one sentence, the other party could roughly guess what was happening and knew where to find him.


    With such an excellent partner, how could he worry about not overcoming the crisis at hand?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hung up the phone and silently deleted the call record from his communicator.


    ¡ªThis wasn''t to guard against Jia Shu but to protect Chen Feng.


    After completing these tasks, Qiu Tu returned to the conference room next door.


    At this moment, several investigators were still having a heated discussion about the case in the conference room. However, Liu Fuping was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu looked around, didn''t see her, and guessed that she had probably gone to find Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu paid it no mind, sat in his chair, and continued to review Yin Caimei''s dossier while patiently waiting.


    Soon, Li Feng and Wang Xi returned, saying the forensic doctor was in place and they could proceed with the autopsy.


    At that news, Qiu Tu stopped waiting for Liu Fuping and went with the team to the autopsy room to prepare for the examination.


    Upon arrival, Qiu Tu saw the forensic doctor: a young man in his late twenties, quite handsome, but slightly less so than Qiu Tu himself.


    After a brief chat, Qiu Tu learned some basic information about the forensic doctor.


    The doctor''s surname was Qin, from a collateral branch of the Qin family.


    Before the establishment of Xinjie City, he was a family physician for the Qin Family. Later, when Xinjie City was founded, he was sent to the Investigation Bureau to learn about autopsy and medical investigation skills, ultimately becoming a forensic doctor.


    This kind of identity shift was not uncommon in Xinjie City over the past two years.


    Or to put it another way, the major families and powers of Xinjie City were gradually infiltrating the three great authorities through this method, affecting the entire Xinjie City.


    At first, when he learned of the forensic doctor''s identity, Qiu Tu was somewhat hesitant: after all, he had quite a few conflicts with the Qin family, and he wasn''t sure if this doctor might cheat or deliberately slack off.


    What surprised Qiu Tu was that, although the forensic doctor was from the collateral Qin family, he didn''t seem to harbor any animosity towards him.


    In fact, while examining Yin Caimei''s body, the doctor even casually chatted with him about the recent series of disturbances within the Qin family.


    According to the doctor, after Master Qin Si absconded, the Qin family''s black and gray industries were swept clean and confiscated, affecting many of the Qin family''s collateral branches in the Fourth House, who gathered and caused trouble within the family.


    If it weren''t for Commissioner Qin stepping in to suppress the situation and providing them with new means to make a living, it would likely have turned into a major chaos.


    The arrangement of these people was also not hard to guess ¡ª they were all stuffed into the legitimate businesses of Qin Shu, the Third Brother, as only his enterprises could accommodate so many people.


    However, as most of these people were formerly in gangs, they brought their Jianghu habits with them into formal industries, causing trouble every few days, which brought great dissatisfaction to Qin Shu.


    As a result, Qin Shu and Commissioner Qin had argued more than once over this matter, causing even more unrest within the Qin family.


    Qiu Tu silently watched the entire process of the autopsy while also listening quietly to the forensic doctor''s report.


    As he listened, he sensed something was amiss.


    Looking at the forensic doctor, he tentatively asked, "Which branch of the Qin family are you from?"


    The forensic doctor, with his hands full of fresh blood, looked up at Qiu Tu and showed a toothy smile, "The Fifth House."


    Qiu Tu instantly understood. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Qin family''s Fifth House was the one with a younger half-brother from the same father, a playboy without serious pursuits.


    Since he was born of the legitimate wife, and being much younger than the four brothers, he had been excluded from the Qin family''s core of power early on.


    No wonder the forensic doctor from the Fifth House seemed to take such schadenfreude in the battles between the four Qin brothers.


    Qiu Tu got it.


    So, under Qiu Tu''s complete observation, the forensic doctor quickly finished the entire set of autopsies.


    After cleaning the tools and washing his hands, the forensic doctor spoke as he walked out, with Qiu Tu following beside him, "Although many samples still need to be tested, and everything should be based on the final autopsy report,"


    "From my experience, there were no other injuries on her body, no damage to the internal organs, and no signs of poisoning."


    "Can we almost rule out foul play?"


    "So, could it just be an accident?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu paused, and let out a heavy internal sigh.


    The forensic doctor was unaware of the Cataclysm Prop, but Qiu Tu knew about it.


    So, these entirely normal autopsy results, in fact, strongly suggested the possibility of "murder."


    After all, if there truly was no fatal injury, and it wasn''t murder or suicide, then maybe... only a Cataclysmic ability or a Cataclysm Prop could secretly cause a person''s death.


    Contemplating this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hesitate.


    If Yin Caimei was indeed killed by a Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysm Prop,


    Then... who could have done it?


    Keep in mind... even within the Investigation Bureau, there aren''t many Cataclysmics ¨C probably only a dozen or so division chiefs and four Bureau Chiefs and Deputy Directors.


    This range is too small, too frightening...


    ----

 Chapter 91 - 79: Harvest of Over Ten Million (7k)

    ```


    Forensic Doctor Qin turned his head to look at Qiu Tu, perhaps sensing his hesitation, and then seriously said, "Every body has its unique code; as long as we can crack it, it will speak."


    "So, we must believe in science, believe in evidence."


    "We can''t doubt everything just because a case is mysterious. That would lead us into the trap of ''skepticism''!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled.


    He indeed wished to believe in science, believe in evidence.


    But... he himself possessed supernatural powers that couldn''t be explained by science.


    How could he believe that just because science hasn''t detected any problems with the body, there really were no problems?


    However, these things weren''t something Qiu Tu could explain to Forensic Doctor Qin. It wasn''t just because of the principle of confidentiality; their relationship also hadn''t reached that point.


    Thinking this, he chuckled again and said in a gentle tone, "I understand. It''s just that I indeed have some other doubts."


    Forensic Doctor Qin was a shrewd person. Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, he gave him a suspicious glance, opened his mouth, but in the end chose not to say anything.


    After completing the autopsy, Qiu Tu led Chen Feng, Song Qing, Wang Xi, Little Liu, and others back to the investigation team''s temporary office.


    Upon returning to the office, Qiu Tu checked the time; it was already 5 p.m.


    He decisively clapped his hands and then declared, "That''s it. Today''s work is done for now. Everyone should go rest if you need to rest; it''s time to clock out if it''s time to clock out."


    "If anyone has other ideas, we can discuss them tomorrow."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s remarks, people like Li Feng and Wang Xi were noticeably stunned.


    Obviously, at the Investigation Bureau, everyone was already accustomed to working overtime; there was never a time for leaving work punctually.


    So, for a moment, although they had heard Qiu Tu''s order, not a single person dared to move.


    Then, emboldened Little Liu glanced at the others and raised his hand to ask, "Chief, are you serious? We''re not working overtime?"


    Qiu Tu looked at him, smiled, and responded, "Why work overtime if it can be done during regular hours?"


    Saying that, Qiu Tu pointed to the files spread out on the table, "Besides, what work is there to do now?"


    "We''ve finished studying the files and documents, and we''ve watched the autopsy being completed. As for... the lab tests, the earliest results won''t be available until tomorrow."


    "We don''t even have a preliminary autopsy report yet, nor do we understand how the victim died. We can''t just randomly arrest a suspect for interrogation, can we?"


    "So..." Qiu Tu gestured with his hand, "dismissed, dismissed, everyone go home and rest, recharge your energy for tomorrow''s case-solving efforts."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s definitive statement, Song Qing, who had been restless on the side, couldn''t contain her excitement and leaped up, exclaiming, "Long live the Chief!"


    "I knew I read you right!"


    After she spoke, she happily gathered her belongings and dashed out of sight.


    With her leading the way, Li Feng, Little Liu, and the others exchanged glances, also smilingly thanked Qiu Tu, packed up their things, and left work stylishly...


    Qiu Tu was the last to leave.


    He neatly organized all the case materials and documents, locked them up, then turned off the lights, locked the door, and left the Investigation Bureau.


    Probably because it was rare for Investigation teams to leave work so early from the Political Department, Qiu Tu garnered many envious glances along the way.


    And the loyalty level notifications for his subordinates kept popping up.


    [Li Feng Loyalty +1]


    [Ding Xiaoliu Loyalty +2]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +2]


    [.....]


    [Song Qing Loyalty +7]


    Seeing that last exaggerated loyalty notification, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but crack a smile.


    This girl really hated overtime; her loyalty actually increased by so much...


    After work, Qiu Tu drove to the Investigation Bureau''s gas station to fill up his car with fuel.


    As he wasn''t a director yet and couldn''t enjoy official car benefits, the expense was his own¡ª a whole Silver Yuan.


    In Qiu Tu''s former life, that was almost 800 Yuan.


    And this much fuel would only last him three days. Indeed, in the Planning Area, such controlled resources were incredibly expensive.


    If it wasn''t for receiving Old Fourth Qin''s assets tonight, Qiu Tu imagined he''d be reluctant to keep driving this car. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu headed to the small restaurant at 29 Nanfang Street¡ª a frequent gathering spot for him and his brothers.


    The restaurant''s owner used to be a big shot in Ah-Tai''s gang, who, during the military''s crackdown in Xinjie City two years ago, was quick to escape, sparing his life but crippling one of his legs.


    Subsequently, he decided to retire from the underworld, opening this restaurant with his wife.


    Arriving at the restaurant, the owner, wearing an oilcloth apron, was sitting down, scraping fish scales.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he smiled and raised his hand in greeting, "Ah-Tu''s here. The guys are inside."


    Qiu Tu nodded in acknowledgment, greeting, "Brother Qiang," before heading straight to the courtyard inside.


    The small restaurant wasn''t grand, without any private rooms, so Qiu Tu and his brothers usually took over the courtyard behind the owner''s house, setting up a few tables for open-air dining.


    Upon entering the courtyard, about a dozen young men were already there, scattered around and chatting in groups.


    Noticing Qiu Tu''s arrival, they greeted him in succession, "Brother Tu''s here." "Brother Tu." "Brother Tu, you''ve arrived."


    Qiu Tu returned the greetings with a smile and then scanned over them.


    Besides Qiu Tu, his small group consisted of 15 people in total. The core was made up of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and Eagle.


    The rest of them were mostly picked up by Qiu Tu or brought back by Ah-Tai after some scuffle somewhere.


    Now, Ah-Tai had gone to the Special Service Department. Eagle and Ah-Kun had gone to the Political Department. Twelve others hadn''t been placed yet.


    Today, Qiu Tu had to choose two suitable individuals from them to send to the military.


    [Monkey Loyalty: 85]


    ```


    [Ah-Shui Loyalty: 83]


    [Da Tou Loyalty: 81]


    [Ah-Xiong Loyalty: 89]


    [.....]


    Most of the brothers'' loyalty to Qiu Tu lay within the 80-85 range. This proved their deep affection for Qiu Tu and their unwavering commitment to follow him.


    Understandably so, as they had relied on each other for many years, weathering numerous trials and forging bonds as close as life itself.


    Among them, Ah-Xiong surprised Qiu Tu the most.


    Ah-Xiong hadn''t been picked up by Qiu Tu but was brought in one day by Ah-Tai from the outside.


    Back then, Ah-Tai was still involved in gang activities, and Ah-Xiong was a member of a rival gang. During a gang clash, Ah-Xiong''s reckless fighting style caught Ah-Tai''s eye.


    So, after Ah-Xiong was nearly chopped to death, Ah-Tai dragged him back to see if he could still be saved.


    By the time he was covered in blood and barely hanging onto life. Out of kindness, Qiu Tu spent money on a doctor to suture and clean his wounds; the rest was left to fate¡ªthis was the best medical care one from the lower strata could hope for.


    Perhaps it was his destiny to survive; to everyone''s astonishment, Ah-Xiong actually pulled through.


    From then on, he hung around with Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and the rest of the brothers.


    However, even though he was with Qiu Tu and the others, he was actually quite solitary by nature and didn''t talk much. He would silently sit to one side and eat during gatherings.


    Having apparently suffered a great deal of trauma since childhood, he seemed to regard everyone with innate hostility, which made him the least favored within Qiu Tu''s small circle.


    Initially, Qiu Tu presumed he would be the least loyal of all; unexpectedly, his loyalty turned out to be the highest, next to Ah-Tai''s and Eagle''s.


    Qiu Tu speculated that this loyalty might have something to do with personality....


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was observing his brothers, Monkey picked up a canvas bag from the ground and walked over holding it.


    Upon reaching Qiu Tu, Monkey handed the canvas bag to him with both hands, baring his teeth in a grin, "Brother Tu, this is what we snatched from Old Fourth Qin''s wife."


    Qiu Tu took the bag, which was slightly heavy in his grip.


    Opening it to look inside, he saw over thirty shiny Little Goldfish and a pile of paper vouchers.


    In the post-Cataclysm world, gold was much more valuable than silver. One Little Goldfish was worth about 200 Silver Yuan, equivalent to a purchasing power of about 160,000.


    The thirty-plus Little Goldfish in the canvas bag amounted to an immense sum of nearly six million.


    It was the cash that Master Qin Si''s family had carried with them during their escape.


    Adding the non-cashable paper vouchers, deeds, land titles, and Master Qin Si''s hidden gold reserves....


    Qiu Tu roughly estimated that Master Qin Si''s fortune was at least in the hundreds of millions, and the contents of this bag could cash out to at least twenty or thirty million.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but swear inwardly,


    "Damn, he''s so rich!"


    "Lucky for me, it''s all mine now!"


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t sit idly; he began pulling out Little Goldfish from the bag, tossing each one to a brother as he drew it out.


    Watching as each brother caught one, he continued to pull out another, and toss it to another brother.


    Suddenly, cheers erupted in the yard, one after another.


    With a minimum monthly expenditure of about 200 Copper Yuan for ordinary people in this world, one Little Goldfish was enough to sustain a common person for decades.


    Even if one lived extravagantly, a few years of carefree living wouldn''t be a problem.


    And as Qiu Tu casually doled out such a vast sum to them, how could they not cheer?


    So, in just a moment, a plethora of +1, +2 loyalty notifications popped up before Qiu Tu.


    The reason the increases were modest, Qiu Tu guessed, was because the loyalty of those present was already too high....


    After quickly distributing twelve Little Goldfish, Qiu Tu set the canvas bag down by his feet and instructed, "The Little Goldfish is for your nest egg, to take a wife. Don''t squander it needlessly."


    "Later, I''ll have Eagle exchange a few Little Goldfish for some Silver Yuan and Copper Yuan for everyone''s daily expenses."


    "The rest of the money will stay with me for now; if you need any, come to find me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Monkey, Ah-Shui, Da Tou, and the others promptly responded energetically.


    Because of the money distribution, the entire yard was abuzz with joy, even the sounds of conversation growing louder.


    Allocating wealth was always the most uplifting.


    Soon after, Eagle and Ah-Kun arrived, but Ah-Tai was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu didn''t wait for him: the guy had always lacked a sense of time; there''s no telling what might have held him up.


    So Qiu Tu simply asked the owner to serve the dishes.


    Course after course was laid out, and the brothers ate and drank merrily.


    After the third round of drinks, it struck 9 p.m.


    Qiu Tu''s communicator buzzed with vibration.


    Picking it up, Qiu Tu saw a call from an unfamiliar number.


    A hunch crossed his mind, guessing who the caller might be.


    He answered the communicator, and indeed, Qin Shuman''s voice came through the earpiece, "I''m outside."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu excused himself from Eagle and the others and then got up to leave the yard.


    Barely stepping out of the restaurant, Qiu Tu looked up to see Qin Shuman standing across the street.


    She appeared different tonight. Not in a cheongsam or military uniform, she wore a black, stand-collar cashmere coat.


    Even though the coat covered her exquisite figure, it added to her tall stature, giving her an air of elegance that seemed to stand apart from the rest of the world....


    Seeing her, a smile involuntarily spread across Qiu Tu''s face, and then he started walking towards her....


    And as Qiu Tu approached, Qin Shuman''s lips also curved into a smile.


    She seemed to have applied light makeup deliberately tonight, and her smile was breathtakingly beautiful.

 Chapter 92 - 80: Monsters of the Immaterial World (7k)

    In the Planning Area, vehicles are a rare sight.


    So crossing the street doesn''t require much care.


    Qiu Tu strode across the street and then opened his arms wide, laughing as he said, "Miss Shuman! To not see you for a day feels like an eternity has passed! Let me give you a hug."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, dressed in a black coat, stepped back with a smile and then pushed away at Qiu Tu''s chest with her hand, which was gloved in black, scolding playfully, "Stop it! Be serious!"


    But Qiu Tu didn''t heed Qin Shuman''s rejection and still wrapped his arms around her to hug her tightly.


    With a beauty in his arms, Qiu Tu was surrounded by the faint fragrance of Qin Shuman.


    Somehow, the anxiety he had been feeling over the past days seemed to have quieted down a bit.


    Qin Shuman quietly leaned into Qiu Tu''s embrace, at first holding back a little, but in two seconds, she gently rested her head against his chest.


    The two of them, fatigued from the terrible issues in their respective departments, suddenly found a haven where they could briefly rest...


    After quietly holding each other for a while, Qin Shuman looked up at Qiu Tu''s face.


    Qiu Tu''s resolute, handsome face had a hint of worry, even his eyebrows were furrowed.


    Qin Shuman reached out and gently smoothed Qiu Tu''s brow, then said softly, "Chief Qiu seems to be in a really bad mood today~~"


    Snapping back to reality, Qiu Tu smiled and asked, "Oh, really?"


    Qin Shuman replied with a "hmm" and said, "I don''t think I''ve ever seen your brows so deeply furrowed."


    "Is the case that difficult to handle?"


    Qiu Tu said, "That''s not it. I was just thinking about how white that girl''s legs across the street are, and why she doesn''t show them off a bit more."


    Qin Shuman: ??


    Annoyed, Qin Shuman kicked Qiu Tu in the stomach and then pushed him away.


    Qiu Tu yelped, "Ouch," clutching his stomach. "You woman lack martial morals! Attacking by surprise!"


    Seeing his reaction, Qin Shuman''s lips curled into a smug smile. She teased him, "Chief Qiu~~ If you lack the alertness of the Security Department and hug people carelessly, you should be prepared to get hurt!"


    Qiu Tu looked innocent, "The work of the Security Department is too hard! Even a hug has to be so cautious!"


    The two bantered back and forth, lightening the somber mood from when they first met.


    While arguing with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman was searching the periphery for the girl showing off her legs.


    But after a long search, she found no one.


    It took her a while to realize it, and then she glanced at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu, with a smile, let go of his stomach and took her hand, then invited, "Shall we take a walk together?"


    Qin Shuman felt as if something soft in her heart had been touched. She replied with a "hmm" and then joined Qiu Tu for a stroll along the street.


    Today, Qin Shuman had come out as her true self, so there was no need to worry about being recognized.


    Hand in hand, they walked along the street, with Qiu Tu softly sharing everything that had happened today with Qin Shuman.


    This included Jia Shu assigning him to handle the "Yin Caimei case"; Jia Shu saying he would gain the trust of the Security Department; and all the unusual signs and his speculations after taking over the "Yin Caimei case".


    Since it was already past 9 p.m., there were no pedestrians on the road, so they didn''t worry about being overheard by others.


    Qin Shuman listened to Qiu Tu''s current problems in silence, pondered for a moment, and then also spoke up,


    "Let''s not talk about the Yin Caimei case for now. Jia Shu said you will receive attention from the Security Department, and I think I have some guess and understanding of it."


    She glanced at Qiu Tu and said softly, "Because of protecting Master Qin Si, our Security Department leaked information to the Political Department, giving them an excuse to make things difficult."


    "So, just yesterday alone, several moles we had placed close to the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau were all extracted, and we haven''t heard from them since."


    "Jia Shu is ruthless; I think they are very likely in a dire situation."


    "Considering what you said about last night''s Yin Caimei case information being bait, I suspect that some of the Security Department''s lower-level moles were also listed by him during last night''s operation."


    "Therefore, next he is likely to one by one remove all the moles from the Security Department. In this case, to expand our channels of information, we will inevitably have to cooperate with you."


    "And that''s how you can infiltrate our ranks."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then nodded slightly, "It should be so."


    Then, Qiu Tu continued, "The situation for your moles now is very dangerous."


    "What do you plan to do? Withdraw them?"


    Qin Shuman''s face showed struggle as she shook her head slightly, "We can''t withdraw them."


    "If we do, it could expose you."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s gaze deepened, "The best course of action is if we can also find out the moles that the Investigation Bureau has within the military."


    "And through you, tip off Jia Shu."


    "That way, both sides holding each other''s people, we could reach a new balance."


    Qiu Tu asked, "Then... how do you plan to find out the Investigation Bureau''s moles in the military?"


    Qin Shuman said with a wry smile, "There''s no way for now."


    "Our lines to the higher-ups in the Investigation Bureau are all severed."


    "Trying to screen through so many soldiers is simply not realistic."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, a bolt of lightning suddenly flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind.


    He thought of... Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei.


    As a spy planted by some unknown power within the Investigation Bureau, and with the support of Tang Feifei, the Deputy Director of the Bureau, she must have accessed a great deal of classified information, right?


    I wonder if she has a list of the Bureau''s spies...


    Moreover, as the Deputy Director and a rival of Yan Chen, if there was a way to diminish Yan Chen''s power, I believe she would be very tempted.


    Futhermore, planting spies in other departments is inherently against the rules, so making a move on this matter wouldn''t put her in a difficult position.


    So¡­ even if Liu Fuping doesn''t have a list of spies, if I can connect with Tang Feifei and collaborate, maybe there will be some unexpected results.


    After all¡­ Tang Feifei is the "Deputy Director of Administration" in charge of "training".


    Most of the spies among the three major power institutions are secretly trained in Xinjie City.


    If I could get from Tang Feifei the names of those who have been trained at the Bureau over the past year, who didn''t pass the assessment, but finally got jobs in the military, maybe we could catch a large number of spies¡­


    And such a collaboration would be greatly beneficial to Qiu Tu as well.


    Besides reducing the power of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, it would also allow him to establish a connection with Tang Feifei.


    Having a Deputy Director as a hidden backer was far too important for Qiu Tu, who was currently treading on thin ice within the Investigation Bureau...


    The room for maneuver would suddenly become much larger.


    Having clarified his thoughts, Qiu Tu glanced at Qin Shuman and said, "I''ll think of a way to help you with this matter."


    "I might have some ideas."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman looked at him in surprise.


    As the head of the Security Department''s Investigation Division, Qin Shuman knew all too well the difficulty of obtaining a list of spies; an opportunity like the one presented by Jia Shu was truly rare and hard to come by.


    And now, Qiu Tu was saying he had a way?


    Truth be told, Qin Shuman''s first reaction was disbelief... but after all, it was the thought that counted coming from Qiu Tu. So after a brief pause, she still smiled and said,


    "Then I''ll thank Chief Qiu in advance~~"


    "My entire career is now in your hands~"


    Although Qin Shuman hid it well, using a light joke to dilute the seriousness of the matter, Qiu Tu still sharply picked up on her underlying emotions.


    Qiu Tu didn''t say anything. "Doing" was always more reliable than "talking"; handing over the list to Qin Shuman would be the best response when the time came.


    After discussing the matter of the double agent, Qin Shuman also brought up the "Yin Caimei case".


    When it came to this case, she became noticeably more serious.


    She said, "The book ''Brave New World'' is actually very famous." Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s just that it''s known among the great Sanctuaries, not in the Planning Area."


    "Sanctuaries?" Qiu Tu asked in surprise.


    Qin Shuman nodded, then continued, "Yes. This book was once wildly popular in the Eight Great Shelters."


    "After all, turbulent times are the best breeding ground for such cultic propaganda."


    "But, a few years ago, the Eight Great Shelters came to an agreement to ban the book and called for all residents to hand it over for destruction!"


    Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Why?"


    Qin Shuman''s brows furrowed as well.


    She said, "I''m not sure. It''s classified as level B secret, and I don''t have access to check."


    "But I''ve heard the director mention before that this book has caused a lot of trouble in the non-material world."


    "It seems that many people committed suicide or died in strange ways after reading it, leading to the birth of a terrifying Cataclysmic Creature in the non-material world, which then caused some bizarre changes in the real world."


    The previous night, when she met with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman had given him several pieces of information on Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic abilities.


    It roughly recorded some of the information Qiu Tu received from the origin of the world.


    However, possibly to avoid leaking secrets or for some special reason, the information did not directly use the term "Boundless Heart Sea" but referred to it as "non-material world" instead.


    After listening to Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu automatically replaced the keywords in his mind and sorted through the intelligence as well.


    Then, with some hesitation, he asked, "So, do you suspect that Yin Caimei''s death might be related to that book?"


    Qin Shuman spread her hands, "I''m not sure. I''m just giving you a new direction to consider."


    After saying that, she paused for a moment before adding, "Besides, although ''Brave New World'' was banned and destroyed in the Sanctuaries, it is still very prevalent among anti-government organizations like the United Front."


    "So it makes sense that Yin Caimei had this book."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu sensed something amiss.


    He paused for a moment, then tentatively asked, "If I''m not mistaken, the Sanctuaries have been continually purging anti-government armed forces, and it''s not just because they threaten the rule of the Sanctuaries, right?"


    "But it''s related to... that non-material world, or rather the creatures in it?"


    "Things like ''Brave New World,'' which can give rise to creatures in the non-material world, are not the only ones?"


    ------

 Chapter 93 - 81 Cataclysmic Creatures: Phantom Jellyfish (7k)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman clearly hesitated for a moment.


    Perhaps this matter was related to the secrets of the Security Department, so she hesitated for a full two seconds before saying to Qiu Tu, "Yes."


    She explained, "The material world and the non-material world are not independent of each other but can influence each other."


    "In the material world, the spirits, obsessions, and negative emotions of living beings can cause various changes in the non-material world."


    "And if certain obsessions or negative effects reach a threshold, then the spirit world might give birth to related Cataclysmic Creatures, or even more terrible disasters."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu tentatively asked, "Then what kind of impact do these Cataclysmic Creatures and ''disasters'' have on the real world?"


    Qin Shuman said with a bitter smile, "A lot. So much that you wouldn''t want to know."


    "Let me give two simple examples...."


    "For instance, the Cataclysmic Creature that was born due to the book ''Brave New World'' once caused a disaster in the non-material world, destroying six or seven cities under the jurisdiction of the Third Sanctuary."


    "Later, the Third Sanctuary paid a great price to quell the disaster and drive it away."


    "Another example is a huge Cataclysmic Creature named the ''Phantom Jellyfish,'' which is several kilometers long and drifts in the depths of the non-material world, alone."


    "But once it moves towards the material world, it triggers a psychic tidal wave. The power of the disaster will surge toward the material world like waves."


    "Ordinary beings in the material world will be affected by this Catastrophic Power, rapidly evolving."


    "However, the spirits of many higher beings will be affected, with lighter cases experiencing dizziness and vertigo while severe cases may go mad or suffer from schizophrenia."


    "Material affects spirit, and spirit in turn affects material...." Qiu Tu softly evaluated. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For the first time, he had a clear understanding of the information he had received from the world''s origin.


    The Boundless Heart Sea is not just the source of Catastrophe Power, but truly... the Cataclysm origin that has changed the entire world...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu felt a surge of new ideas about the "Yin Caimei case."


    If the emotions of beings in the real world can give rise to Cataclysmic Creatures, and if the Cataclysmic Creatures in the Boundless Heart Sea can in turn affect the beings of the material world...


    Then this matter may very well involve more than just the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, Anti-government Armed Forces, and City Hall; there might be deeper secrets involved.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind stirred, and he became curious about another matter.


    He looked at Qin Shuman beside him and inquired, "Actually, I''ve always been curious about something."


    "Why would The military, Investigation Bureau, and City Hall plant spies within each other?"


    "Aren''t we all people of the Sanctuary?"


    "Isn''t this like stirring up a civil war?"


    Qin Shuman pondered for a moment upon hearing this before carefully stating, "First off, I need to correct you on one thing. The Sanctuary has never supported the three major power authorities fighting against each other."


    "In fact, openly, the Sanctuary has always severely criticized this behavior."


    At this point, Qin Shuman''s tone shifted, "But..."


    "The Sanctuary is, after all, a new government that has only been established in recent years. Calling it a nation is one thing, but it''s more aptly described as a coalition of various forces."


    "Several top-level individuals sought to change the plight of humanity through cooperation and together rebuild the entire Cataclysm-affected world. So, they united, allocated interests according to the resources each possessed, and established an entirely new social system."


    "Therefore, whether it''s the Investigation Bureau or The military, they are actually relatively independent entities."


    Qin Shuman gestured with her hand and explained, "It appears as though we are all led by the Sanctuary, but in reality, the power structure is segmented."


    "If you join the Investigation Bureau, your promotion is within the Investigation Bureau''s hierarchy. If you enter The military, you''ll only rise within The military."


    "The same applies to City Hall."


    "This has resulted in each of the three major power authorities being independent kingdoms, each developing on their own. They only collaborate when facing crises."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu said in astonishment, "Wouldn''t that cause chaos?"


    Qin Shuman explained, "It would. Which is why, after recognizing the problem, the upper echelons decisively implemented two measures."


    "One is to address the symptoms, and the other is to address the root causes."


    Qiu Tu was curious, "Address the symptoms? Address the root causes?"


    Qin Shuman nodded, "Addressing the symptoms is what you just mentioned. Although the Sanctuary forbids the three major authorities from targeting each other openly, it covertly encourages them to plant ''spies'' in other authorities."


    She paused for a second, correcting herself, "Actually, the correct term should be ''agents.'' They are encouraged to insert agents into other authorities."


    "And the agents inserted into other organizations should hide their true identities as much as possible, climb up the ladder with the support of their original power, and ultimately attain high positions."


    "For example, if you''re the person we''ve chosen. If you''re a Deputy Staff Chief in the Investigation Bureau, that qualifies as a spy."


    "But if you take Yan Chen''s position and become the Investigation Bureau Chief... with the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau under your leadership, how could you be considered a spy?"


    "You''d just be an Investigation Bureau official with good relations to The military."


    Qiu Tu''s mouth opened slightly: ....


    Inexplicably, it made sense.


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s shock, Qin Shuman covered her mouth and chuckled before continuing, "Actually, due to these actions, there has been a significant increase in personnel transfers between the three major authorities in the past two years. The connections between them have also become much closer."


    "After all, sometimes when ''spies'' have been in place for too long, they can''t even tell who they really work for. They might help The military as well as the Investigation Bureau."


    "As it went back and forth, it did indeed shatter the scenario of an independent kingdom," Yan Chen said.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hesitated slightly before voicing his doubt, "What about the ordinary spies you send to the upper echelons?"


    "It can''t all be about climbing the ranks, right?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head, "That''s not it."


    "Those spies have three purposes."


    "First is to gather intelligence, to stay updated on what sibling agencies are up to, so as not to make decisions based on incorrect information."


    "Second is to help our own people rise through the ranks. There has to be a vacancy up there for our people to climb. If we discover any illegal activities on their part, it not only creates positions for our people but also rids the Sanctuary of a pest, doesn''t it?"


    "Third is... oversight."


    Qin Shuman''s expression became complex as she continued, "Generally speaking, most mid- and high-level officials stationed in the Planning Area are Cataclysmics."


    "Cataclysmics are too unpredictable; no one knows when they might Degenerate or undergo a Psychic Mutation."


    "Therefore, we three major agencies monitor each other to try to prevent certain uncontrollable incidents..."


    At this point, she looked earnestly at Qiu Tu and added, "Yan Chen, for instance, is someone we pay close attention to."


    After listening to Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu finally had a rough understanding of the spy games played by the three major power agencies, a game of "tit for tat."


    No wonder he felt that the government infighting in this world was rather intense. It turned out to be due to structural issues at the founding of the government, which was now going through a painful adjustment period.


    According to Qin Shuman, the three factions would probably fight for years, maybe a decade, before gradually merging and forming a cohesive whole.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of another, more fundamental solution mentioned by Qin Shuman.


    Since the conversation had reached this point, he naturally asked about it.


    When the topic shifted to this, Qin Shuman became much more serious. She said, "The fundamental method would be... to promote top-level political reform."


    "Initially, the highest governing body of each Sanctuary was merely a round-table meeting, with negotiations and benefit divisions amongst leaders of various factions."


    "Now, each Sanctuary is setting up a Supreme Council, centralizing power within the Council, which has the ultimate decision-making authority over all affairs of the Sanctuary and the Planning Area."


    "To go against the orders issued by the Council would be to commit a crime against the government."


    "In various cities, the Supreme Council is also pushing for the establishment of Municipal Committees, trying to forge the Committee into the highest governing body of each city."


    "Leaders of departments like the military and the Investigation Bureau will eventually become members of the Municipal Committee, merely regular members."


    "The city''s major and minor decisions, even the appointment of mid-level officials, will be determined through discussions by the Committee members."


    "But this measure faces significant resistance, so for now it has only reached the propaganda stage."


    After hearing Qin Shuman''s account, Qiu Tu finally had a comprehensive understanding of the power structure of Xinjie City and indeed the Sanctuaries as a whole.


    It was an era moving from chaos to order, filled with all kinds of opportunities.


    If he could seize them well, perhaps he really could reach the peak!


    And moreover...


    He thought of his own journey towards Superhuman Power, "Order-Politics."


    He thought of the Cataclysmic Creatures that intruded upon the real world from the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Qiu Tu knew that he had to struggle up the ladder, step by step, to the very top, to grow ever stronger!


    Only by doing so could he truly take control of his life in this bizarre world of Cataclysms!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s eyes became much more determined...


    Afterward, Qin Shuman discussed with Qiu Tu some other details about the "Yin Caimei case."


    As the head of the Security Department''s Investigation Department, Qin Shuman had plenty of experience handling supernatural cases.


    So many of her insights were enlightening to Qiu Tu.


    For example, many Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysm Props might not require close contact with the victim, making long-range murder a possibility.


    For instance, the guard rooms of the Political Department and Security Department usually have the ability to block external Catastrophic Powers. Unless the door to the Guard Room is opened, external Catastrophes theoretically can''t penetrate.


    Moreover, ordinary objects in the hands of the deceased or within the body might have been "seeded" with Cataclysmic abilities, set to trigger automatically upon meeting certain conditions...


    After talking with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu felt he had a new perspective on the case.


    Maybe... this case wasn''t necessarily a silencing by the Political Department?


    After all, if it was indeed the Political Department''s doing, their methods might not have been so crude?


    Such thoughts brought a glimmer of hope to Qiu Tu''s investigation.


    Most importantly... after they finished discussing the case. Qin Shuman took the initiative to say, "If you''re willing, I can come to the Investigation Bureau with you tomorrow night to examine the body for Cataclysmic traces."


    "See if I can provide you with new clues and directions."


    Startled by Qin Shuman''s proposal, Qiu Tu replied with a hint of surprise, "Would you really be able to do that?"


    "With both your identities, it seems quite difficult for you to enter the Investigation Bureau, right?"

 Chapter 94 - 82: Obtaining Key Clues (7k)

    ```


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman smiled.


    She placed her hands behind her back, stood on tiptoe, and raised her eyebrows with a bit of smugness, "I have my ways~~"


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu roughly guessed: This woman most likely had found a new possession target.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu suddenly felt.... that being with this woman wouldn''t be too bad¡ªothers at most could play with uniform seduction, but she... she could let you experience every woman in the whole world!


    No matter whether you like lolitas or prefer mature ladies. Even if you were so inclined to drive a tank, she could satisfy you!


    As Qiu Tu was indulging in his wild thoughts, Qin Shuman continued,


    "Also, I was planning to head to the Investigation Bureau tomorrow night anyway. It''s actually safer to be with you," she said.


    "I might even need your protection then."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality. He nodded slightly, "Don''t worry."


    "As long as I''m still breathing, I will definitely...."


    "Run away and signal you for help!"


    Qin Shuman laughed and punched Qiu Tu, "You and your smart mouth!"


    Afterwards, the two chatted casually for a bit more, and Qin Shuman politely declined Qiu Tu''s invitation to come over to his place.


    Even after Qiu Tu claimed that the mouse at his home could twerk, she spat at him and blushed as she said,


    "I suspect you want me to twerk on you."


    Qiu Tu cried foul at this accusation and turned the tables, accusing Qin Shuman of being a hypocrite!


    Qin Shuman rolled her eyes at him, not bothering to respond.


    Before parting, they exchanged "gifts."


    Qin Shuman gave Qiu Tu a compact communicator.


    According to Qin Shuman, this tiny communicator was specially made by the Security Department, with a unique number that the Investigation Bureau couldn''t trace back to Qiu Tu.


    With this communicator, it would be more convenient for the two of them to contact each other privately without having to borrow someone else''s communicator.


    Qiu Tu gladly accepted this little gift, then reciprocated with a "small note" for Qin Shuman.


    Written on the note were two names: Wang Xiong (Ah-Xiong) and Hou San (Monkey).


    These were the two names Qin Shuman promised Qiu Tu for exemption from exams to enter The military.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s "gift," Qin Shuman wanted to roll her eyes to the heavens, lamenting her misfortune in people.


    However, she didn''t reject it and instead solemnly placed the note in her pocket, then reminded Qiu Tu to ensure the two would report to The military the next day.


    This way, watching Qin Shuman slowly vanish around the street corner, Qiu Tu felt a trace of melancholy, then he shoved his hands in his pockets and turned toward the small diner.


    As he walked back into the courtyard of the diner, the boisterous atmosphere hit him immediately.


    Drinks were on their third round; it was the liveliest moment, with about a dozen young people calling out to their friends and clinking cups in the courtyard. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And seeing Qiu Tu return, the brothers on-site greeted him in turn.


    Qiu Tu nodded to each of them in acknowledgment, then was surprised to find that Ah-Tai had shown up at some point. And... he hadn''t just come by himself; he had dragged Fang Ming along, too.


    Qiu Tu cast a surprised glance at Fang Ming and saw that Fang Ming''s face was filled with helplessness and innocence.


    Clearly... he had been dragged there by Ah-Tai.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "Ah-Tai, how come Agent Fang is here?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, a flushed Ah-Tai quickly stood up and said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu! Fang Ming was dragged here by me."


    He slapped Fang Ming''s shoulder vigorously with his huge palm, causing Fang Ming to shrink back, "Brother Tu, let me tell you, Fang Ming is reliable, a man of loyalty!"


    "I feel, we can make him our brother!"


    Listening to his introduction, and the direct way he addressed him, those who knew the inside story understood that Fang Ming was his captain, while those who didn''t would probably think he was Fang Ming''s captain!


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu looked at Fang Ming.


    Fang Ming was awkward and innocent. He shot a pleading look at Qiu Tu, but before Qiu Tu could step in, Ah-Tai had already hoisted him up!


    "Come on, Fang Ming! A toast to Brother Tu!" And with that, he thrust a cup of liquor from the table into Fang Ming''s hand.


    The brothers on-site started to hoot and holler at the sight.


    Fang Ming''s embarrassment grew.


    He wasn''t a three-year-old, he knew this was not just any drink but a rite of brotherhood. Once he drank this, it would mean acknowledging Qiu Tu as the big brother, and he would have to heed any call from Qiu Tu!


    So there he stood, uncertain whether to drink or not.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t let Ah-Tai continue on and took the initiative to take the cup from Fang Ming''s hand, saying with a smile, "Perfect, I''m thirsty, thanks for the drink, you two."


    After that, he downed Fang Ming''s cup in one gulp.


    Relieved, Fang Ming showed a grateful expression to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu then patted Ah-Tai''s shoulder, indicated for him to sit, and inquired about what was going on.


    A few drinks in, Ah-Tai really forgot about making Fang Ming pay homage and began to grumble.


    "Damn, that kid really thinks he''s something!"


    "Look who in the entire team respects him?"


    From Ah-Tai''s bits and pieces of conversation, Qiu Tu got the gist of the situation he and Fang Ming had encountered that day.


    The matter was quite simple. In the past few days, a person with connections had joined the Special Service Department.


    No sooner had this connected individual joined than he was made a First Level Detective and acted high and mighty every day.


    Since he didn''t have his own squad yet, he would come and nitpick Fang Ming''s squad whenever he had nothing better to do.


    ```

 Chapter 95 - 82: Obtaining Key Clues (7k)_2

    Fang Ming''s team initially tolerated him, but who knew he would become more and more outrageous and excessive!


    This afternoon, during Fang Ming''s team''s training session, this privileged guy ran to the side again, folding his arms while nitpicking everything. If he wasn''t accusing Fang Ming of unprofessional training, he was criticizing the team members for their poor level. He even mocked them, saying that despite having the best equipment of the whole bureau, their combat ability was just so-so.


    Fang Ming''s team members were indeed furious at him, but they dared not speak out.


    Only Ah-Tai...


    Could he endure such humiliation? So he directly used his pot-sized fists to give that privileged guy a beating.


    Afterwards, that privileged guy went to the higher-ups of the Special Service Department to complain, and so... Ah-Tai was also detained by the senior officials, severely reprimanded, not only receiving a punishment but even solitary confinement was demanded.


    Since Ah-Tai got into trouble for standing up for Fang Ming, after the incident, Fang Ming had been running around doing everything he could to get Ah-Tai''s punishment revoked and his solitary confinement canceled.


    As a result, Ah-Tai felt that Fang Ming was very loyal and could be considered a brother. Thus, after he picked up Ah-Tai from solitary, he was dragged into joining this get-together.


    After recounting the events of tonight, Ah-Tai patted Fang Ming''s back forcefully and said with alcohol-laden breath,


    "Fang Ming, let me tell you, next time you encounter such an idiot, just go up and hit him! Don''t endure it! If something happens, Brother Tu''s got your back!"


    Ah-Tai spoke with a righteousness that suggested Qiu Tu was one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants.


    Fang Ming gave Qiu Tu an odd look, knowing that Ah-Tai was drunkenly fooling around, but still silently nodded in agreement.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled softly, taking a sip of his drink, and for some reason, felt that the two men had a bit of a ''couple'' vibe.


    Perhaps... in the future, Fang Ming could indeed be "subdued" by Ah-Tai, roped into his crew?


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also curiously asked, "By the way, what''s the name of that privileged guy? What kind of background does he have, to be so arrogant?"


    Ah-Tai scratched his head with his fan-sized hand, stammering, "Seems like his name was Tian, Tian..."


    Fang Ming took over, "Tian Xiaotian."


    Ah-Tai slapped his forehead, "Right! Tian Xiaotian! I heard his dad is the vice president of the Xinjie Chamber of Commerce, and they''re having some in-depth cooperation with our bureau lately. The higher-ups in the bureau all have to cater to him, that''s why he''s so arrogant!"


    "Tian Xiaotian? Vice President Tian''s son?" Qiu Tu was momentarily taken aback.


    Then he shrewdly caught on to the key point in Ah-Tai''s words, "Vice President Tian is engaged in an in-depth cooperation with the bureau?"


    "What kind of cooperation?"


    Ah-Tai scratched his head, trying hard to recall, "I... I remember when I was beating him up, he did shout a lot, like who his dad is, and what kind of cooperation they''re undertaking with the Investigation Bureau, how he''s going to get me killed."


    "But... uh...."


    Ah-Tai forcefully slapped his forehead as if it could help him recall what Tian Xiaotian had said during the beating.


    After a moment, following another forceful slap, his expression suddenly brightened, and he said, "Oh, right! Something about communication monitoring cooperation!"


    Hearing Ah-Tai''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly froze!


    A bolt of lightning flashed through his mind as he felt connections being made!


    He boldly combined all the information he knew and formed a hypothesis:


    The Investigation Bureau, as the maintainer of the city''s public security, obviously had a need to monitor the communication throughout the city.


    However, due to budget constraints, the Investigation Bureau had always been unable to set up surveillance over the entire city''s communications.


    Especially in recent times, Yan Chen and Jia Shu had lost crucial clues in several cases due to communication monitoring issues.


    So, they could only find ways to make up for this shortcoming themselves.


    As a result, just at this time, Vice President Tian''s mistress Yin Caimei fell into their hands.


    Vice President Tian was originally a major businessman in the communications industry and had intricate connections within the Sanctuary.


    Therefore, Yan Chen and Jia Shu seized the opportunity to reach an agreement with Vice President Tian: the Political Department would either actively allow or turn a blind eye to Yin Caimei''s execution, and in return, Vice President Tian would help the Investigation Bureau provide brand-new communication surveillance equipment!


    Because he understood the impact of Yin Caimei''s death, Jia Shu didn''t simply execute her but cleverly used her death to release false information and took the opportunity to check the Investigation Bureau''s scouts with the new equipment.


    The results of the action were of course remarkably effective, satisfying both Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Furthermore, as both sides were currently in the honeymoon phase of cooperation, Jia Shu was considering the case from the perspective of the other party, which led to his various odd actions and methods.


    And as the cooperation progressed and the trust between them was established, Vice President Tian''s son Tian Xiaotian naturally came to the Investigation Bureau and became a First Level Detective.


    Regarding Tian Xiaotian joining the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu had two guesses:


    If Tian Xiaotian was sent to the Investigation Bureau proactively by Vice President Tian, then it was very likely that Vice President Tian wanted to lean toward the Investigation Bureau and further deepen their relationship.


    However, if Tian Xiaotian joined the Investigation Bureau passively, then it was possible that Yan Chen and Jia Shu wanted to have a better hold on Vice President Tian, so Tian Xiaotian, while nominally a "relation placement," was in fact a "hostage."


    After obtaining the key clue, Qiu Tu instantly figured out all the odd aspects of the case!


    But having figured it out, he couldn''t help breaking out in a cold sweat.


    Indeed, one should never underestimate anyone who has climbed to a high position in this world!


    He had thought he took advantage of Master Qin Si''s escape to corner Yan Chen and Jia Shu, causing endless internal strife within the Qin Family, which was leaning towards Yan Chen, to the point where they could hardly protect themselves.


    Yet, who could have known that they would turn around and use the Security Department''s given excuse to use Yin Caimei''s case, clear out the scouts within the Investigation Bureau, secretly expand their influence, and become even stronger!


    Such tactics were frightening!


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed.


    He found that he really couldn''t let Yan Chen and Jia Shu continue to develop like this.


    He had to cooperate with the Security Department, Liu Fuping, Deputy Director Tang, and other forces. He must uncover the truth of this case and prune the influence of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Otherwise, even if he survived this crisis, once they completed their expansion and came to their senses. If they discovered his own irregularities, he would be the one to die!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s gaze deepened, and he couldn''t help but think of the beautiful young widow Liu Fuping.


    He wondered how her plan was going now?


    [10 days (the closure time of Yin Caimei''s case)]


    .....


    Meanwhile,


    In a high-end villa near the Investigation Bureau.


    Two bodies were entwined with each other... S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One of the women had a creamy white complexion, a voluptuous and soft body, with the charm of a mature woman.


    The other had a healthy wheat-colored complexion, short hair, and an appearance of spirited elegance...


    ---------

 Chapter 96 - 83: Launching the Second Tier Loyalty Game (7k for Monthly Tickets)

    After half an hour of tossing and turning.


    The two women finally collapsed into each other''s arms, exhausted.


    Liu Fuping held Tang Feifei tenderly, her eyes too tired to open properly.


    Yet Tang Feifei''s energy seemed to remain robust, and even where Liu Fuping didn''t notice, her eyes flickered with an orange glow.


    That glow lasted for a few minutes before slowly retreating into the depths of her eyes.


    As Tang Feifei held Liu Fuping''s fair body, her wheat-colored skin created a stark contrast.


    Tang Feifei quietly relished the afterglow for a moment, then looked down at Liu Fuping and asked in a low voice, "You seemed especially proactive tonight."


    Her voice, a contralto, lacked the sharpness of ordinary women and instead carried a weightiness of authority, and unexpectedly harmonious to the ear.


    Liu Fuping clung to her panther-like agile body, her entire being fluid, "No~~ it''s just that the new boss is easy to get along with, so I saved a lot of energy, enough to spend some on you~"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Is your new boss Qiu... Qiu Tu?"


    At this, Liu Fuping nodded and feigned curiosity, "Does Director Tang also know him?"


    Tang Feifei hummed in acknowledgment, then said, "I''ve only heard of him."


    Tang Feifei''s gaze became somewhat reminiscent, "I heard he was originally one of Old Bai''s men and was highly regarded by him."


    "Later, with Old Bai''s recommendation, he successfully climbed onto Yan Chen''s good graces."


    "He''s quite talented; at first, he did all the dirty work for Yan Chen, never complaining."


    "Later, when he got an opportunity, he immediately showed his capabilities. Not only did he protect Yan Chen''s mistress during a shootout, but he also gained the support of the Qin Family for Yan Chen."


    "Because of this, he earned Jia Shu''s appreciation and was recruited into the Political Department, where he is now being groomed."


    Liu Fuping hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to have such a high opinion of Qiu Tu. She was stunned for a second before continuing, "Is that so?"


    "But... I somehow feel that Chief Qiu doesn''t seem to get along well with Secretary Bai, the Bureau Chief, and Minister Jia?"


    "And in the Political Department, he doesn''t seem to be groomed as a key person."


    Her words successfully piqued Tang Feifei''s curiosity. Her clear eyes glanced at Liu Fuping as she inquired, "What do you mean? Have you discovered something else?"


    Liu Fuping tread carefully, "I can''t really explain."


    "Ever since Chief Qiu entered the Political Department, I''ve been under his command."


    "I''ve noticed that he doesn''t seem very happy. Especially after taking on the current case, he''s been quite restless."


    "Today, after he reviewed the case files and conducted the autopsy, he immediately made phone calls to consult others. And after those consultations, he sat in an empty conference room, quietly smoking, without a word."


    "Moreover, I''ve noticed that every time he enters Minister Jia''s office, he''s on edge as if he''s afraid of being plotted against."


    As a trained multi-faceted spy, Liu Fuping had her skills, although due to lack of time, many were still a bit rusty. But she possessed the basic abilities to gather intelligence and steer conversations.


    She knew that if she brought up the "Yin Caimei case" right off the bat, Tang Feifei would not only be uninterested but might become suspicious of her.


    So, she first dangled Qiu Tu as bait to catch Tang Feifei''s interest, encouraging Tang Feifei to investigate and approach Qiu Tu, making it easier for her and Qiu Tu to execute their plan.


    As expected, after hearing Liu Fuping''s words, although Tang Feifei nonchalantly patted Liu Fuping''s butt, saying, "Enough, let''s not talk shop in bed, come on, let''s do it again."


    But as she turned, her eyes clearly flickered, revealing a trace of deep thought....


    Liu Fuping keenly captured this signal. Comforted, she once again immersed herself in the arduous task at hand.....


    ...


    The dinner at the small restaurant continued until midnight.


    It''s quite common for a group of single young people, all without girlfriends, to eat and drink into the night.


    Even, if it weren''t for the fact that they all got jobs or positions through Qiu Tu, it would be normal to drink all night long.


    When the gathering dispersed, Fang Ming took the opportunity while Ah-Tai was absent to secretly toast Qiu Tu.


    Fang Ming''s tolerance for alcohol was clearly average. But he... seemed to be easily overwhelmed by Ah-Tai, never able to refuse, so he was fed drink after drink from the very beginning.


    Thankfully, Qiu Tu noticed Fang Ming''s predicament and intervened, preventing him from becoming utterly drunk.


    Additionally, since Fang Ming visited suddenly without informing Qiu Tu ahead of time, he had broken protocol.


    Hence, he took the initiative to offer Qiu Tu a toast before leaving.


    "Chief Qiu, I''m sorry about today. And thank you for tonight. Uh... I''m not great with words, let the drink speak for me," Fang Ming said.


    After finishing his words, Fang Ming drained his glass in one gulp.


    Qiu Tu smiled and replied, "Ah-Tai is someone I''ve watched grow up since he was a child. He''s not bad, just very enthusiastic with people he likes. Please be understanding of that."


    "Now that he works under you, please take good care of him."


    "Let the drink speak for me."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu too finished the drink in his glass in one go.


    After the toast, the two exchanged a look and couldn''t help but laugh.


    Right when the atmosphere between them was warm, Ah-Tai suddenly emerged from somewhere, bringing his face close to the two men and strangely asked, "What are you laughing at?"


    He looked suspiciously at the two, "Are you talking behind my back?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu and Fang Ming exchanged a glance, then laughed even louder.


    Ah-Tai was quite a character; seeing the two laughing so joyously, he didn''t get upset but rather scratched his head foolishly and joined in with a carefree laugh.


    For a moment, the yard was filled with more and more laughter.


    And so, the little gathering ended happily amidst laughter...


    ....


    There was no drunk driving in this world, and on the roads in the early hours, there wasn''t even a single silhouette in sight. Therefore, after the gathering dispersed, Qiu Tu took the initiative to drive the furthest member, Fang Ming, home.


    Listening to Fang Ming''s drowsy directions, Qiu Tu meandered through the dimly lit streets.


    It took over half an hour before Qiu Tu finally reached Fang Ming''s residence.


    What surprised him was that Fang Ming actually lived in Longshan Road.


    From the unique name of this street, one could discern its extraordinary status in Xinjie City¡ªunlike the "Old Alley Street," "Xiafang Street," and "Nanxiang Street" where Qiu Tu and the others lived.


    Other people lived on "Longshan Road."


    This was the largest and most exclusive villa district in Xinjie City, and it had been the center of power before the city was established, housing all the prominent figures of the time.


    Within lived families second only to the Qin Family, wealthy merchants involved in various industries, and gang leaders with tens of thousands of followers.


    Even though these former notables had gradually lost their influence with the establishment of Xinjie City, Longshan Road still held a pivotal position in the entire city.


    At the entrance to Longshan Road, there were armed private security patrols.


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue driving forward but stopped the car instead.


    Fang Ming, who was sitting in the passenger seat, had somewhat sobered up by then and, slightly tipsy, said to Qiu Tu, "Thank you, Chief Qiu, for your hospitality tonight. I''ll head home now."


    "If you have time, you must come over for a visit. My old man has always been very interested in you." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "I certainly will if I get the chance."


    Fang Ming affirmed with a "hmm," opened the car door, got out, and walked towards Longshan Road.


    The patrolling armed personnel were clearly familiar with him and let him pass with a friendly greeting.


    The streets inside Longshan Road were brightly lit by street lamps, illuminating Fang Ming''s path home in the dead of night. Qiu Tu lit a cigarette and watched him leave before driving back into the darkness.


    The dim car lights shone on the uneven road, but Qiu Tu drove extremely smoothly....


    Back on Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu parked his car and strolled back to his cramped, dilapidated home.


    The lights were still on inside his home.


    Pushing the door open, Shen Lingshuang was adorably asleep on the sofa, with two dishes on the table, already cold.


    Seeing the scene, Qiu Tu''s gaze slightly fluctuated, then he stepped forward, picked up Shen Lingshuang, and brought her back to the bedroom.


    Shen Lingshuang''s body stiffened for a moment, then her nose twitched, probably catching Qiu Tu''s scent, and finally, she settled comfortably in his arms and fell back to sleep.


    After placing the girl on the bed and tucking her in, Qiu Tu took off his clothes, washed up, turned off the lights, and went to bed.


    Lying in bed, Qiu Tu stretched out his arm to embrace Shen Lingshuang. Shen Lingshuang nuzzled into his arms to find a comfortable spot, and then fell asleep again.


    Yet, Qiu Tu didn''t sleep. Holding the girl, lying in bed, he recalled the lengthy day he''d had.


    Today, he''d been through far too much too quickly for him to keep up with it all.


    It started in the morning when he woke up to discover that the "Yin Caimei case" was a trap, forcing him to rush to rescue Secretary Bai.


    Next was the interrogation of Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and their cohort, reaping a wave of their loyalty and making them his team members.


    After that, he discovered that Yin Caimei''s death very likely involved Yan Chen, the Political Department, and Jia Shu. He might have been made a scapegoat.


    And finally, he had unexpectedly learned of Vice President Tian''s collaboration with the Investigation Bureau from Ah-Tai, completing the last piece of the entire puzzle.


    With such a series of twists and turns, Qiu Tu was admittedly worn out.


    However, even so, he couldn''t rest because he had one last task to perform: to initiate the Loyalty Game.


    Without taking small steps, there can be no journey of a thousand miles. Every day, a bit more loyalty, a bit more clue, and maybe in a week, a month, there will be a qualitative change.


    Therefore, no matter how tired he was, Qiu Tu did not forget his powerful Golden Finger.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also summoned the Loyalty Game panel.


    When the panel appeared, Qiu Tu noticed that tonight''s Loyalty Game had undergone significant changes from the night before.


    Besides Ah-Xiong and Ah-Kun, whose loyalty had successfully surpassed 90, becoming the third and fourth subordinates after Ah-Tai and Eagle to exceed a loyalty of 90.


    The members of Cao Dabiao''s squad that Qiu Tu had harvested today had half their loyalty also surpassing 60, appearing on the Loyalty Game panel.


    Looking at the more than twenty names on the panel, Qiu Tu felt a sense of accomplishment.


    It might be a small number, but they were his first core team in this world.


    And he believed that as his status rose and his power grew, the number of people on these two lists would increase.


    In time, he would have more and more followers in Xinjie City, in the Planning Area, in the Sanctuary, and in the entire Cataclysm-ravaged world! His every word and deed would have a profound impact on the world!


    Immersed in quiet contemplation of the future for a while, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and then started to inspect the Loyalty Game.


    Last night, Qiu Tu knew that the Loyalty Game had two levels.


    The first level was for those with a loyalty of 60, and the second was for 90.


    Last night, Qiu Tu had initiated the first-level game. Its effect was to arrange for subordinates with over 60 loyalty to engage in a "combat game" with other subordinates, earning various rewards.


    Today, of course, he was going to try the second-level game.


    He wanted to know what changes would occur in the Loyalty Game once loyalty reached 90.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu clicked on Eagle''s name and selected the second-level loyalty game.....


    ---


    The previous chapter was blocked twice, and I have deleted several descriptions at the beginning. It does not affect the plot.

 Chapter 97 - 84: Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug (7k Requests for Follow-Up Reads)

    With a click, the introduction to the second-tier game popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    "As a boss, you can assign one subordinate with a loyalty above 90 to ''work overtime'' every night."


    "The ''overtime'' subordinate will go to the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' to salvage."


    "The salvage area will correspond to the location in the real world within the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Therefore, each salvage operation gives you a chance to obtain ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' ''Cataclysmic Treasures,'' and ''Cataclysmic Creatures'' that exist in your area as rewards."


    "And each time you salvage, there''s also a chance that the subordinate will be permeated by Catastrophe Power, increasing the probability of Cataclysm Awakening."


    "Note 1: The loyalty of salvaged Cataclysmic Creatures cannot be guaranteed, so please be sure you can handle them before releasing them."


    "Note 2: Non-Cataclysmic subordinates can only salvage once a week. If done more frequently, there is a risk of Degeneration, Cataclysm, and so on..."


    After reading the introduction to the second game, Qiu Tu blinked, and his brain quickly made a simple analogy: A different-dimension version of Gold Miner?


    My subordinates work during the day, and at night, they have to laboriously salvage Cataclysmic Potions, Cataclysmic Props, and even Cataclysmic Creatures for me, just like gold miners?


    That''s just too fort.... too utterly conscienceless!


    Am I really not going to be lynched?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu silently made excuses for himself: Well, working overtime in dreams probably doesn''t count as overtime, right?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate and immediately selected Eagle to start the second-tier game.


    As Qiu Tu confirmed his choice, the very next second, a small screen popped up in front of him.


    In the screen was a chibi top-down view of Xinjie City, and a pixelated little figure with a hooked nose was standing on the tallest building in Xinjie City, casting a fishing net down with his hand.


    The net in his hands was enormous, covering the entire Xinjie City in one sweep.


    But perhaps because the net was too big, after several minutes of strenuous effort to pull the net back up, it came up empty.


    Thus, he stamped his foot in annoyance and continued to cast his net....


    Cast, retrieve, cast, retrieve, the animation repeated over and over.


    Qiu Tu watched quietly for a while, knowing that there wouldn''t be any results in such a short time, so he temporarily closed the game screen and prepared to open the first-tier "Fighting Game" from the loyalty game.


    He opened the "Fighting Game," and just like last night, selected Ah-Tai and Wang Xi.


    The memory fragment he obtained this morning helped Qiu Tu glimpse a side of Wang Xi unknown to others.


    So Qiu Tu also wanted to delve deeper into this mysterious subordinate who was "a Pharmacist by day, a motorbike thug by night."


    To see what organization he really belonged to, and what that organization was typically up to....


    After arranging the two loyalty games, Qiu Tu''s tasks for the day were finally completely finished.


    He yawned, cuddling Shen Lingshuang''s small, soft, fragrant body, and slowly fell asleep....


    ......


    The Blue Moon hung high in the night sky, casting gossamer moonlight, quietly illuminating the new city of Xinjie.


    But for some reason, there seemed to be mysterious fluctuations occurring in Xinjie City tonight.


    The fluctuations were very regular, occurring every few minutes, and ordinary beings couldn''t detect them at all. Even the Cataclysmics or Cataclysmic Creatures were led to believe it was just the normal undulations of the Boundless Heart Sea....


    But if one could see the screen of the Loyalty Game, they would realize that the pattern of the fluctuations matched exactly with Eagle''s net casting and retrieving.


    It was as if someone was really salvaging something from the entire Xinjie City in a higher dimension....


    And so, the night passed without incident.


    The next day, Qiu Tu was awakened by someone.


    He opened his bleary eyes, lifted his head, and saw Shen Lingshuang bending over prodding his lower half...


    Qiu Tu looked at her blankly and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Upon hearing the question, Shen Lingshuang''s ears turned a bit red. She whispered shyly, "You''re hard."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu turned over with annoyance, "That means I''ve been dead for 12-16 hours."


    "Leave me alone, let me ''die'' a little longer."


    Shen Lingshuang made an "Ah?" sound, her mouth gaping wide as she stared at Qiu Tu in disbelief.


    After a long moment, she finally realized that Qiu Tu was referencing "rigor mortis."


    She got annoyed and hit Qiu Tu a few times with a pillow, "You''re disgusting! You''re really disgusting!"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t be bothered with her.


    She puffed her cheeks, pouted, and muttered softly, "Insensitive." Then she hopped out of bed to go to the bathroom.


    But her departure left Qiu Tu unable to fall back asleep. He turned over, opened his eyes, and stared at the ceiling for a while.


    Then he called out the Loyalty Game panel, ready to check out the spoils of the previous night.


    Upon opening the Loyalty Game, the first thing he saw was the settlement screen of the "Fighting Game."


    Unsurprisingly, Ah-Tai had once again smashed Wang Xi to bits.


    But perhaps because he had drunk alcohol last night, the pixelated figure of Ah-Tai in the screen also had a "battered" left eye, which turned purplish.


    In the settlement screen, a drunken Ah-Tai was burping with a hammer in hand, stepping on Wang Xi.


    Wang Xi, meanwhile, lay on the ground, clutching a brick, crying "wah wah."


    ''The outcome screen actually changes?''


    ''And... it seems to vary according to the real state of the subordinates?''


    Qiu Tu was surprised while checking the game''s spoils.


    Last night''s haul was relatively average, just a mere 2 points of loyalty, and there was nothing else.


    Qiu Tu felt a little short-changed....


    Drinking indeed caused trouble; he decided not to bring Ah-Tai to the next gathering.


    With a strong sense of dissatisfaction, Qiu Tu closed the "Fighting Game" and checked the "Salvage Game."


    Salvage Game''s settlement screen was rather simple¡ªit was just Eagle''s pixelated figure, exhausted and panting on the ground. There was nothing else special.


    Qiu Tu initially thought this was a failed salvage.


    However, when he was about to close the settlement animation disappointedly, he noticed that next to Eagle''s figure, there was surprisingly a small pink bottle of potion.


    The icon was extremely small, and if it weren''t for Qiu Tu''s sharp eyes, he probably would have missed it.


    Curiously, Qiu Tu clicked on it, and sure enough, a prompt popped up in front of him,


    [Obtained Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug]


    Qiu Tu: ??


    What''s this?


    Qiu Tu tried to check the description of the potion.


    ''Cataclysmic Potion: Mandragora Love Drug''


    ''Potion Description: A Cataclysmic Potion made from Cataclysm Materials such as Mandrake Flower and Succubs of Water, through a "Mystery" process used by Cataclysmics.''


    ''Potion Effect: Simply apply a small amount to the neck, and you will gain a half-hour effect of enchanting allure. Anyone who approaches you will involuntarily let down their guard to some extent and feel a certain fondness for you.''


    Seeing the effect of the pink potion, Qiu Tu''s mouth hung open slightly, somewhat stunned...


    This... thing is quite frightening.


    It felt akin to some banned substances.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind went back to the "Salvage Game" introduction from last night.


    The introduction said that the items salvaged weren''t conjured from thin air but existed in reality...


    So, did Cataclysmics in Xinjie City secretly concoct this potion?


    And thinking about the identities of these Cataclysmics, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed tightly.


    Most of the Cataclysmics in Xinjie City were mid to high-level officials, after all. What were they concocting this potion for?


    Qiu Tu could not shake the feeling that something strange was brewing in Xinjie City recently, as if some event was imminent...


    After pondering quietly for a while, Qiu Tu came back to his senses, silently put away the Cataclysmic Potion, and didn''t use it right away.


    The potion seemed like it could only be used twenty or thirty times, with one less use with each application, so it couldn''t be wasted carelessly.


    Qiu Tu planned to find an opportunity today to try it out on a suitable person...


    [9 days (time left to close the Yin Caimei case)]


    ...


    He had breakfast with Shen Lingshuang.


    During the meal, Qiu Tu also assigned Shen Lingshuang a task. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The task was simple, which was to have Shen Lingshuang scavenge for gold in the black market.


    Now that Qiu Tu had money, besides needing the money to generate more money, he needed to convert the money into power as much as possible.


    Among Qiu Tu''s small team, apart from himself, only Shen Lingshuang had knowledge of potions and treasures.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu decided to arrange for Ah-Shui and Da Tou to protect Shen Lingshuang while she scavenged for Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysmic Potions, or Cataclysmic Props in the black market.


    Even if they couldn''t procure these overly precious items, Shen Lingshuang could appropriately buy some ordinary herbal materials and practice alchemy at home.


    In times of chaos, the most sought-after items besides weapons are potions. As long as the quality isn''t too shoddy, no matter how much is produced, various powers would scramble to buy them all.


    Hence, a Pharmacist is like a walking minting machine. Well... given that there are sufficient materials.


    Shen Lingshuang wasn''t surprised by Qiu Tu''s arrangement. Since the night she decided to stay, she had anticipated her future work.


    However, what did surprise her was that Qiu Tu directly gave her 15 Little Goldfish as funds for purchasing.


    You should know that 15 Little Goldfish are equivalent to the purchasing power of over 3 million. Not to mention a normal person''s lifetime expenses, it could even be used to hire a private armed force of around a hundred people.


    And yet, Qiu Tu just casually gave them to her?


    Wasn''t that too much trust in her?


    Thus, touched beyond measure, Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty surged another 3 points!


    Seeing the sharply increasing loyalty, Qiu Tu reassuringly released the Little Goldfish from his hand: he had been prepared to backtrack immediately in case Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty plummeted.


    Though the Loyalty Game doesn''t allow one to lock down subordinates'' loyalty, it does enable estimation of subordinates'' thoughts and intentions through real-time changes in loyalty.


    So, if Shen Lingshuang''s loyalty dropped sharply, planning to run away with the Little Goldfish, Qiu Tu would retract his offer promptly.


    After assigning Shen Lingshuang''s tasks and finishing breakfast, Qiu Tu embraced her, sketched out a few more big plans, and then drove to the Investigation Bureau to work.


    The harvest from last night had opened up new lines of thought for the "Yin Caimei Case."


    He planned to strike while the iron was hot and delve deep into the truth of the "Yin Caimei Case," thoroughly scrambling Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s plans.


    But who knew that before he reached the Investigation Bureau, halfway there, a woman in an investigator''s uniform stopped him.


    Living two lifetimes, Qiu Tu had never seen a beautiful woman flagging down a car, especially not an investigator.


    Therefore, he stopped the car, rolled down the window, and asked curiously, "Miss, is there something you need? Looking for a lift?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the woman lightly shook her head and then said, "Chief Qiu, I am Director Tang''s personal secretary."


    "I am waiting here because Director Tang has a message for you."


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned.


    Director Tang?


    Tang Feifei...?


    Qiu Tu''s mind raced. Could it be... Tang Feifei took the bait?


    It seems Liu Fuping worked very hard last night. Otherwise, Tang Feifei wouldn''t come looking for me so eagerly early in the morning.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What message does Director Tang have for me?"


    The beautiful assistant looked at Qiu Tu, smiled slightly, "Director Tang said, she would like to have a chat with you. Perhaps there are other solutions to your current predicament."


    -----

 Chapter 98 - 85: Second of the Twelve Types of Women (7k)

    Hearing the words of the beautiful assistant before him, Qiu Tu was once again certain that Liu Fuping must have done her job well.


    He guessed that last night, Liu Fuping might have used some means to hint to Tang Feifei about her own predicament and the issues with the "Yin Caimei case".


    And this had successfully piqued Tang Feifei''s curiosity.


    He surmised that after learning of this information last night, Tang Feifei probably had someone conduct a cursory investigation into the case.


    The power of a Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau in the Planning Area was not to be underestimated; many issues that were extremely difficult for Qiu Tu to investigate appeared transparent before her.


    Therefore, in just one night, she must have found some fishy parts in the case and confirmed that the intelligence Liu Fuping told her was true.


    Hence, she took the initiative this morning to send an assistant to intercept him on his way, wanting to collaborate with him, or rather... to recruit him.


    After running through the events in his mind, Qiu Tu also roughly had a plan.


    He smiled and said to Tang Feifei''s beautiful assistant, "Thank you for Director Tang''s generous offer. But ''a servant does not serve two masters'', and I must respectfully decline."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu didn''t even close the car window before he stepped on the gas and left the place.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departure without a hint of face-saving for her, the intercepting assistant was full of surprise.


    As one of the four highest-ranking officials in the Investigation Bureau, who in Xinjie City would dare to offend Tang Feifei?


    Even Yan Chen, although she was suppressing Tang Feifei behind the scenes, still had to give Tang Feifei some face publicly to avoid being seen by the Sanctuary as tyrannical and overbearing.


    So, as Tang Feifei''s assistant, the female assistant was long used to everyone welcoming Tang Feifei with a smile and being at her beck and call.


    But... Director Tang personally invited Qiu Tu, and he just drove away?


    This truly shocked the assistant.


    She watched incredulously as Qiu Tu drove off into the distance, then picked up her communicator and dialed Tang Feifei.


    The phone connected, and Tang Feifei''s distinctive low female voice came from the handset, "Is the matter settled?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s somewhat authoritative voice, the assistant swallowed hard and then cautiously said, "Director... Qiu Tu has declined."


    "Declined?" Tang Feifei sought confirmation, then suddenly laughed.


    The assistant thought that Tang Feifei was laughing out of extreme anger, so she hurriedly showed her loyalty, "Director, I think that Qiu Tu is just asking for a slap in the face!"


    "You personally invited him, and yet he dared to decline, as if he didn''t take you seriously at all." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If you ask me, we should investigate him, see if there are any faults to be found, and directly bring him down!"


    "Enough," Tang Feifei cut the assistant off and then said coolly, "Stop using your pig brain to guess at what I''m thinking."


    Tang Feifei might indeed be in a good mood because she rarely explained in a softer voice, "Actually, after receiving that intelligence last night, I felt something was odd: everything seemed a bit too coincidental."


    "However, upon inspecting the case, there really were fishy parts. I didn''t want to let go of such an opportunity lightly."


    "Thus, today I had you invite him. In truth, the invitation was fake, the probing was real."


    "You need to understand who he is."


    "The confidant of Yan Chen, a key member of Secretary Bai''s faction, a subordinate valued by Jia Shu."


    "Even though he seems to have had some conflicts with Secretary Bai recently and the case he took on also encountered problems, his ability to become a section chief and progress to his current position relied entirely on the support of these three people."


    "So, how could he possibly betray them just because a high-ranking official came looking for him?"


    "Therefore, if he had really accepted my invitation, that would have suggested that this matter might very well be a trap."


    "As for his refusal of me now, on the contrary, it''s a good thing."


    After hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the assistant suddenly understood.


    She quickly flattered Tang Feifei, "Director, how wise! How thorough you are in your considerations!"


    After the flattery, she lowered her voice and probed, "But, Director, now that we''ve proven it''s not a trap, Qiu Tu has left. How do we continue to make contact with him?"


    Tang Feifei said coolly, "No trouble at all. Although he declined you, he''s still aware that I extended an olive branch to him."


    "So, with his intelligence, once he returns to the Bureau, he will surely inquire about me and weigh the pros and cons cautiously."


    "As long as there is something fishy with that case, and it''s likely he can''t handle it, he definitely won''t let go of this lifeline I''ve offered."


    "So, let''s give him some time, contact him again tonight or tomorrow."


    "Don''t worry, the fish will bite eventually!"


    After speaking, Tang Feifei said in her distinctive low female voice, "Alright, come back now. Don''t embarrass yourself out there."


    "Yes," the assistant quickly responded.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, who was driving towards the Investigation Bureau, was also organizing a "fishing plan".


    Only... unlike Tang Feifei who was fishing for the case, he was fishing for Tang Feifei.


    Just as Tang Feifei had analyzed, Qiu Tu knew her first invitation was definitely a test.


    As a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, he could not accept.


    This was not only inconsistent with his persona, but also not conducive to his own fishing for Tang Feifei....


    Although Tang Feifei was the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, she was also a woman.


    As long as she was a woman, Qiu Tu could use the "Emotional Fraud Manual" from his previous life, which recorded "12 types of women, 36 corresponding strategies, and 108 ways to enhance affection".


    According to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Tang Feifei most likely fell into one of the 12 types of women in the "Emotional Fraud Manual" ¡ª either an Action-Oriented Person or a Rational Planner.


    Both types of women have one thing in common: they are particularly enterprising, ambitious, and they can very easily become strong, independent women.


    The difference is that an "Action-Oriented Person" needs to be more confident and strong, full of enthusiasm for work and career.


    While a "Rational Planner" tends to be more composed and independent, leaning towards rationality rather than emotion in their actions.


    But no matter which of these two types, both can be dealt with by using the "36 Strategies," specifically the technique of "To Catch and Release Deliberately."


    To put it simply and directly, such powerful women who hold authority and are career-driven are unlikely to be interested in ordinary men.


    Therefore, it''s necessary to provoke their competitive spirit and desire to conquer, making them feel like there''s a chance, yet they find themselves unable to control the situation each time.


    This consistent let-down, the frustration of repeated hunting failures, and the ongoing pursuit of success will gradually cause them to lose control, until they eventually fall completely into the emotional trap.


    Though the purpose of that booklet was to deceive women''s emotions, Qiu Tu felt it would have the same effect when used in business matters.


    Thus, his strategy for Tang Feifei was "To Catch and Release Deliberately."


    He would cooperate with Tang Feifei, but he couldn''t let her control the pace. He would give her a taste of success, but after each sweet taste, he would withdraw.


    Stir up her competitive spirit, her desire to conquer, give her the thrill of the chase, and let her slowly sink into this whirlwind of storms...


    This was Qiu Tu''s plan!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu slowly drove to the Investigation Bureau.


    Parking the car and sitting inside, Qiu Tu continued to contemplate:


    Regarding the Cataclysmic Potion, the Mandragora Love Drug, he received that morning: in order to better execute his plan, Qiu Tu was prepared to use it on Tang Feifei, but... not yet.


    Because... there''s a very high chance that Tang Feifei is a Cataclysmic.


    Using a Cataclysmic Potion in front of a Cataclysmic whose identity is important yet unclear, Qi Tu was unsure if some unpredictable accidents might occur.


    So, he had to test it twice in advance.


    As for the targets of the experiment, he had already chosen them long ago...


    The first target was right at the Investigation Bureau...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu didn''t delay.


    He got out of the car, locked it, and then went straight to the Special Service Department...


    The Special Service Department was on the first floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    The reason it''s on such a low floor is not because it''s undervalued, but rather because they''ve established seven or eight training fields behind the Bureau building, which makes the first floor more convenient for their training.


    Arriving at the Special Service Department, Qiu Tu pretended to be looking for someone while secretly searching for his target.


    After wandering around for more than half an hour and almost catching the attention of the Special Service Detectives, Qiu Tu finally found his target¡ªTian Xiaotian.


    Yes, after obtaining the Mandragora Love Drug, Qiu Tu''s first reaction was not to use it on Tang Feifei, but on Tian Xiaotian.


    After all... no one said that Cataclysmic Potions couldn''t be used on the same sex...


    As for why he used the potion on Tian Xiaotian.


    The reason is simple: Compared to the shrewd Tang Feifei, Tian Xiaotian, who could get into fights with the fool Ah-Tai, was easier to deal with and thus a suitable test subject.


    Moreover, Tian Xiaotian is the son of Vice President Tian, and on the surface, Qiu Tu is a "confidant" of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, naturally providing a foundation for building a good relationship.


    Plus, considering Yin Caimei is Tian Xiaotian''s stepmother and Vice President Tian is a key suspect, choosing Tian Xiaotian as the test subject might yield valuable information.


    The only thing Qiu Tu didn''t expect was... he was already at his desk waiting, and Tian Xiaotian was still late, making him wait in vain for half an hour.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu stood not far away, observing his first target.


    Tian Xiaotian''s appearance almost fit Qiu Tu''s stereotype of a rich merchant''s son: chubby, round, weighing probably about 200 pounds.


    From this weight, it''s clear that the father-son relationship is good. After all, in times of material scarcity, one could not grow so plump without a strong bond.


    There truly wasn''t a hint of lack of love on him.


    And yet, arriving half an hour late for work, Tian Xiaotian still brought a bunch of snacks: all luxury items from the Sanctuary. In Xinjie City, a pack could be traded for a bag of rice.


    Being late for half an hour didn''t rush Tian Xiaotian; he waddled to the Special Service Department, punched in, and then wobbled his chubby body towards the training field.


    Qiu Tu followed him, then stealthily took out the "Mandragora Love Drug," dropping a drop and rubbing it on his own neck.


    The moment the "Mandragora Love Drug" touched his neck, Qiu Tu distinctly felt as though a mysterious power came from the void, enveloping him.


    But when he tried to calmly perceive it, he found that the fluctuation had disappeared, as if it were just an illusion.


    Since the effect only lasted for 30 minutes, Qiu Tu didn''t delay any further. He jogged along an alternate path to get ahead to the intersection, then walked toward Tian Xiaotian''s direction.


    Seeing Tian Xiaotian from afar, Qiu Tu suddenly became possessed by an acting god and began to curse quietly, "Damn it, what a piece of crap! A Third-Level Detective trying to act tough with me! Who the hell do you think you are!"


    "And who''s that Ah-Tai? So damn... I think it''d be better to call him too stupid!"


    While cursing Ah-Tai, Qiu Tu''s performance was tinged with a bit of the disappointment from this morning''s "Loyalty Game," making it exceptionally realistic.


    This immediately caught Tian Xiaotian''s attention.


    Especially after hearing the keyword "Ah-Tai," Tian Xiaotian''s ears perked up.


    He stopped Qiu Tu and asked boldly, "Bro, you got a problem with Ah-Tai too?"


    For a First Level Detective to behave like this toward a Deputy Staff was extremely rude.


    But Qiu Tu pretended not to notice and went along with it, "Yeah? I''ve got a problem with Ah-Tai!"


    "What about it? Are you close with him?"


    At this point, the skilled actor Qiu Tu''s eyes even reddened as if he had seen an enemy, glaring at Tian Xiaotian.

 Chapter 99 - 86 Use (7k)

    Seeing Qiu Tu''s ferocious demeanor, Tian Xiaotian wasn''t annoyed. Instead, he excitedly said, "How could that be!"


    "How could I possibly be on good terms with him!"


    Tian Xiaotian stated emphatically, "I have a grudge against him too!"


    Pointing to the bruises on his face and arms, he said, "Look, this, this, and this, were all caused by him hitting me!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s face was a picture of astonishment,


    "Disrespecting a superior is bad enough, but he even dares to fight??"


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Tian Xiaotian''s epaulette, "You''re a First Level Detective. Good lord, he even dares to assault a superior?! He''s really flipping the world upside down!"


    When Tian Xiaotian heard Qiu Tu''s words, he reflexively glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulette and uniform, and upon realizing that Qiu Tu was actually a Deputy Staff Director from the Political Department, he was belatedly shocked.


    But perhaps because his family had protected him too well, he was surprised, but not overly polite to Qiu Tu, just casually saluting, "Sir."


    Then he continued, "Sir, if he dares to offend you, hitting me is nothing."


    "I tell you, people from the lower ranks like him just refuse to be disciplined, lawless!" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Speaking of which, he glanced around and whispered, "Sir, why don''t you take him to the Political Department and give him a good discipline?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu put on a face of feigned wretchedness, "I would indeed like to, but that''s not possible."


    "The Special Service Department is a big department, and it''s not weaker compared to our Political Department. If I dare to capture someone from the Special Service Department over such a trifle, it would be strange if they didn''t fight back against us."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Tian Xiaotian just made an "oh" sound, not really caring: perhaps he knew himself that this idea was a bit far-fetched.


    Afterwards, as the two walked and talked, they developed a profound "affection" for each other in just a few minutes.


    Especially Tian Xiaotian, for some reason, just felt that this Deputy Staff Director from the Political Department, whom he had only met once, was particularly endearing and easy on the eyes.


    If he wasn''t certain about his own sexual orientation, he might have suspected that Ah-Tai''s beating the previous day had caused him some disorder.


    And Qiu Tu.... found that the "Mandragora Love Drug" was indeed very effective.


    He had only just met Tian Xiaotian. And their meeting was such a coincidence, yet Tian Xiaotian showed no suspicion at all, eagerly answering every question. In just a few minutes, they started addressing each other as brothers.


    "Brother Tian, I never expected that you''re the son of Vice President Tian. To be a First Level Detective at such a young age, truly, like father like son!"


    Tian Xiaotian bashfully waved his hands, "No, no. I didn''t earn this position based on my own merits, but it was arranged by my father."


    "He said we needed to strengthen ties with the Investigation Bureau, so he placed me in the Special Service Department as a First Level Detective."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly: the first important piece of information was obtained.


    At that moment, Tian Xiaotian also asked out of curiosity, "Brother Tu, I heard you say earlier that you started off as a driver for the Bureau Chief?"


    "Are you in a good relationship with the Bureau Chief?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "Of course, I am."


    "I''ll tell you, the reason I was promoted so quickly was all thanks to the support from the Bureau Chief and our Minister."


    "Otherwise, think about it, someone like me, coming from Old Alley Street with no background, no money, how could I become a Deputy Staff Director in Xinjie City just one year after its establishment?"


    "And in the Political Department, such an important and sensitive department at that."


    Tian Xiaotian nodded somewhat confusedly, feeling that it made sense.


    Seeing that Tian Xiaotian was convinced, Qiu Tu continued, full of pride, "I''ll tell you, I''ve protected the Bureau Chief''s mistress, been to the Bureau Chief''s villa, and even entered the Bureau Chief''s study as a true confidant!"


    "That night in the study, there were only the Bureau Chief, Minister Jia, and me. From that, you can see how much I''m valued."


    "Moreover, Minister Jia also values me a lot. Every time he sees me, his eyes are filled with fervent encouragement."


    "Even to get me accustomed to the Political Department, on my first day, he personally showed me how to dissect prisoners."


    "Now, he''s handed over the most important case in the Political Department to me. Tell me, if this isn''t trust, what is?"


    Tian Xiaotian nodded again, still a bit bewildered, feeling that this Deputy Staff Director spoke so pleasantly, everything he said seemed right....


    And at that moment, since they had reached the topic of the case, Qiu Tu changed the subject and naturally segued into the main issue.


    He said, "By the way, Tian, this case seems to be somewhat related to your family."


    "It involves your father.... um...."


    Halfway through, Qiu Tu seemed to realize something inappropriate and suddenly stopped speaking.


    Could Tian Xiaotian stand being baited like this?


    His curiosity was piqued, and he quickly inquired, "Brother Tu, what were you saying just now? This major case is related to my family?"


    After saying that, he expressed his confusion, "That shouldn''t be the case. My father is on good terms with Minister Jia, how could there be a case related to him?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered slightly: the second important piece of information was acquired.


    Qiu Tu looked hesitant as if harboring an unspeakable secret.


    But under Tian Xiaotian''s prompting, he looked around, and at last, whispered, "Brother Tian, this matter is actually a secret. Normally, I shouldn''t be telling you."


    "But.... I don''t know why, even though this is the first time I''ve met you today, I feel an incredible affinity for you, as if we knew each other from before."


    "So, I''ll quietly tell you. But you must promise me, you can''t tell anyone else. And you can''t tell your father either."


    Upon hearing this, Tian Xiaotian also looked ecstatic as he said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu! I feel the same!"


    "For some reason, when I see you, it''s like seeing an older brother I''ve known for many years."


    "So, rest assured!" he patted his plump chest and said, "I definitely won''t tell anyone!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu pretended to breathe a sigh of relief, and then he whispered, "It''s about your father''s mistress."


    "A woman named Yin Caimei. She''s involved in an important case...."


    Next, Qiu Tu detailed the entire case involving Yin Caimei to Tian Xiaotian.


    Including Yin Caimei being a spy for the United Front, including Yin Caimei installing various eavesdropping devices. Including Yin Caimei being silenced in the Political Department.


    However, the only difference from reality was... Qiu Tu pinned all this on Vice President Tian.


    He whispered, "Let me tell you, all these things were actually done by your old man."


    "Minister Jia handed this case to me to handle the loose ends for your old man."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu even winked at Tian Xiaotian.


    Perhaps the things Qiu Tu said were too shocking, and after hearing them, Tian Xiaotian was completely stunned on the spot.


    His chubby face was filled with shock and disbelief.


    After a moment, he stared at Qiu Tu and retorted, "Impossible! My dad could never do such things!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu continued to frame him without a change in expression, "Think about it carefully. If it wasn''t your dad who did this, why did he suddenly become so close with our minister?"


    "And why did he suddenly cooperate with the Investigation Bureau and send you to the Investigation Bureau?"


    Tian Xiaotian''s face kept changing. As a second-generation rich kid just out of his parents'' protection, he clearly hadn''t adapted to a society full of deceit and intrigue, and thus easily let Qiu Tu control the pace of the conversation.


    His expression changed for a long time, before he finally said, unconvincingly, "Anyway, my dad couldn''t have done such things!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew the time was right, so he soothed, "Xiaotian, you''re right. Maybe I jumped to conclusions."


    Qiu Tu "sincerely" apologized, "It was the minister who asked me to investigate the case and to quickly clear Vice President Tian of suspicion. I had assumed that Vice President Tian was the culprit."


    "Actually, now that I think about it... maybe the minister is just worried that this matter will affect Vice President Tian''s business."


    "That''s right, that''s right! It''s very likely the case!" Tian Xiaotian eagerly agreed with Qiu Tu''s plausible reasoning.


    At this time, Qiu Tu finally revealed his ultimate goal. He said, "Xiaotian, I know you also don''t believe Vice President Tian would do such things."


    "So, look, how about we work together to help clear Vice President Tian of suspicion?"


    Although Tian Xiaotian was a naive heir from a landlord family and was under the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug, he still had a shred of reason left.


    Hearing such a sensitive proposal, he hesitated first, then tentatively inquired, "Brother Tu, what do you want me to do?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and leaned in, whispering a few words in his ear.


    Tian Xiaotian looked at Qiu Tu with a surprised face and asked, "Just that?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Yes. Just that."


    Tian Xiaotian fell silent for a while, then finally said, "Let me think about it first, I''ll contact you once I''ve made up my mind."


    Qiu Tu didn''t press him, and took out his communicator to exchange numbers with Tian Xiaotian.


    After saving each other''s numbers, Qiu Tu calculated the time and realized that the Mandragora Love Drug would wear off in a few minutes. To avoid spoiling the good first impression, he decisively took his leave.


    Watching Qiu Tu go, Tian Xiaotian stood in place for a long time.


    The information he got from Qiu Tu was indeed surprising and made him wary.


    Especially after the Mandragora Love Drug''s influence had worn off and his reason gradually returned, he was not at all certain whether his father was involved in this case.


    If his own father really was involved, what then?


    By helping Qiu Tu, could he end up harming his own father?


    And... was Qiu Tu really a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu as he claimed, on his father''s side?


    With this question, he hesitated, took out his communicator, and made a call.


    The call connected, and he whispered, "Butler Shi, help me look into someone. Deputy Staff Director Qiu Tu from the Interrogation Section of the Investigation Bureau Political Department."


    "I want to know about his relationship with Bureau Chief Yan and Minister Jia."


    After hanging up, Tian Xiaotian took another deep look in the direction Qiu Tu had left, pondering.


    If Qiu Tu really was a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, then there was no harm in cooperating with him. Even if he did find some clues or issues unfavorable to his father, Qiu Tu could handle it better for him.


    And... if Qiu Tu was not a confidant of Yan Chen or Jia Shu, his approach must have another purpose! He must inform his father to avoid any problems!


    Thinking this way, and perhaps because the matter was so serious, Tian Xiaotian didn''t even feel like bothering with Ah-Tai anymore.


    So, he swayed his chubby body and headed towards the other training grounds...


    ...


    Meanwhile, after bidding farewell to Tian Xiaotian.


    Qiu Tu returned to the lobby on the first floor of the Investigation Bureau, then took the elevator up to the 9th floor''s Political Department.


    Once in the Political Department, Qiu Tu walked towards the temporary office of his investigative team.


    However, just as he got to the office door, he unexpectedly ran into the beautiful young woman Liu Fuping.


    Today Liu Fuping was not wearing her uniform but a plain sweater. Though modest, the sweater was unexpectedly form-fitting, revealing her impressive figure in a way that made one''s blood race just by looking.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping smiled and shivered, then raised her hand to greet him.


    But, just as she came within two meters of Qiu Tu, suddenly, there was a brief moment of dizziness in her eyes.


    For an instant, she paused slightly, seeming to change.


    Qiu Tu keenly noticed the change and remembered that his Mandragora Love Drug would still be effective for another two minutes.


    He intended to avoid the enticing young woman before him.


    But at that moment, Liu Fuping, with a slightly flushed face, quickly approached him, closed her eyes, and nestled against him to take a sniff.


    The gentle breath of the young woman made Qiu Tu feel ticklish.


    And it wasn''t over yet; after sniffing, Liu Fuping tiptoed closer and whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear with a voice that made one''s whole body tingle, "Chief... you smell so good."


    ------

 Chapter 100 - 87 How Is It Her? (7k for recommendation tickets)

    It has to be said, the charm of a married woman lies in her expertise in all of a man''s "weak spots."


    Compared to Shen Lingshuang''s naive seduction in the morning, Liu Fuping was far better at pressing a man''s soft underbelly.


    Not only was her voice sultry, but her entire body also gently pressed against Qiu Tu as she spoke.


    Now being autumn, the clothes were quite thin, so Qiu Tu could easily sense her soft curves.


    If that was all, Qiu Tu could have endured, but the problem was that although Liu Fuping pressed close, she didn''t press firmly; instead, she maintained a tantalizing proximity.


    She touched him and then backed away, touched him again, and withdrew once more... keeping their bodies in constant contact.


    With such skilled seduction techniques, no wonder even the protagonists like Yang Wei from some novels might become aroused!


    So, Qiu Tu endured and endured and ultimately couldn''t hold back any longer.


    He abruptly pulled Liu Fuping''s slender waist toward him, bringing her body close, and then whispered into the ear of the beautiful young woman, a low and magnetic warning, "Sister Liu, you''re playing with fire."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping looked up at him, her eyes almost dripping with water, she tilted her head back, blushed, and provocatively said, "Really...? Can the officer''s flame dry up my waters?"


    At her ambiguously charged words, Qiu Tu felt a fierce fire burning in his chest.


    The air grew thicker with innuendo, their gazes locked onto each other, with the surroundings seeming to fade away.


    Seconds and minutes ticked by.


    The feeling was like two piles of dry tinder soaked in gasoline, just waiting for a spark to erupt into a blaze!


    Just then... suddenly, Qiu Tu felt a void in his body, as if a mysterious force had been abruptly withdrawn from him.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality.


    Then he looked down at Liu Fuping, only to find that her dreamy gaze was also clearing up.


    She seemed quite surprised by her own behavior just now, her beautiful eyes filled with disbelief.


    ''Is the Mandragora Love Drug this potent?''


    ''To make Liu Fuping behave like this?''


    ''Is it because we are of different sexes, or is it because there''s already an ambiguous relationship between us?''


    As astonished as Qiu Tu was in his mind, his hands didn''t stop.


    He let go of Liu Fuping''s waist, "Sister Liu, please have some dignity. I am a decent man."


    With that, he reached out and "smack!" slapped Liu Fuping''s bottom, wave after wave.


    Liu Fuping startled, jumped to one side with a face flushed in shame and annoyance, covering her bottom.


    She glared at Qiu Tu and said irritably, "The officer talks about dignity but sure didn''t miss out on taking advantage with his hands."


    Qiu Tu, without a blush or a skip of heartbeat, "That was just a punishment."


    "As an officer, I have the right to punish my subordinates for disrespectful actions."


    "Ha, I didn''t expect the officer to be into this kind of play," Liu Fuping said with a roll of her eyes, her verbal skills noticeably improved from the day before, "You could have just told me directly. I could have made some preparations in advance."


    "Even, if you want to play something more exciting, we can go straight to the interrogation room. They have a full range of punishment props there..."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Indeed, once women let loose, men become irrelevant.


    For the first time, he found himself at a loss for words to respond to Liu Fuping''s rather bold statement.


    So, Qiu Tu swiftly and discreetly changed the subject, inquiring about Liu Fuping''s "user experience."


    He tentatively asked, "Sister Liu, what happened to you just now? Why did you suddenly lean in?"


    "Are you feeling unwell anywhere?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping indeed shifted her focus. She hesitated, furrowed her brows, and said somewhat oddly, "It''s a bit hard to explain...."


    With her hands clasped under her chest, she titled her head, recalling, "When I saw you from a distance just now, I didn''t seem to feel anything."


    "But after taking a few steps toward you, I suddenly felt a bit spaced out, followed by an overwhelming sense of comfort and security."


    "I wanted... wanted to be near you involuntarily."


    Her face blushed slightly, "And then... I just did that."


    "After that, my desires were magnified, my rationality diminished, and all I wanted to do was to immerse myself in that feeling." S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It wasn''t until you pushed me away that I gradually snapped out of that state."


    After finishing, she looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion and a frown, "You didn''t do something, did you, Chief?"


    Qiu Tu ignored Liu Fuping''s suspicion. Resting his chin in his hand, he pondered quietly for a moment, then continued asking, "So, when you were getting close to me, did you think about anything ''strange''?"


    When he said "strange," Qiu Tu emphasized the word.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping''s fair face visibly reddened. Then, with a somewhat evasive look in her eyes, she shook her head unconvincingly, "No."


    Qiu Tu regarded her skeptically, his gaze intense as he scrutinized her.


    Liu Fuping somewhat awkwardly tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, and crossed her legs, then added in a lower voice, "But I just got off the phone with Director Tang..."


    Qiu Tu... understood.


    Stroking his chin, he began to analyze the differences between Liu Fuping and Tian Xiaotian, the two "users."


    First of all, Tian Xiaotian and he were of the same sex, while Liu Fuping was of the opposite sex.


    And from their reactions, the "Mandragora Love Drug," this Cataclysmic Potion, clearly had a stronger effect on the opposite sex.


    Next, the core effect of this Cataclysmic Potion seemed to be the enhancement of human senses.


    Tian Xiaotian, due to his hatred for Ah-Tai, met a "kindred spirit" in himself and had the desire to confide. Thus, his urge to talk was greatly strengthened, resulting in a lengthy conversation with himself.


    While Liu Fuping, having just finished a call with Tang Feifei, might have discussed some taboo topics over the phone.


    So, after coming out, upon encountering him, a certain desire of hers was also enhanced.


    Lastly, the effects of this potion were supposed to be immediate after application, and should end abruptly when the time is up.


    Therefore, for someone like Tian Xiaotian, having a process of approaching and leaving himself would minimize the discontinuity of his sensory experience.


    But Liu Fuping experienced the sudden cessation of the effect while in contact with himself, which made her feeling of disconnection particularly evident....


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu also gained a bit of experience in using the potion:


    He felt it was best to use the Cataclysmic Potion when the target was in a good mood and state, and to make sure to leave before the effects of the potion wore off.


    That way, the effects could be maximized without drawing the target''s attention.


    After roughly understanding the effects of this new Potion, Qiu Tu came back to his senses.


    He ignored Liu Fuping''s inquisitive look and gave her a signal with his eyes, leading her to an empty conference room nearby.


    Once in the empty conference room, Qiu Tu locked the door behind them and started a new conversation, "This morning, Tang Feifei''s assistant came looking for me."


    Liu Fuping twisted her waist and half-sat on a table, crossing her right leg over her left, displaying the exceptional beauty and length of her legs.


    With her hands propped on the table and her body leaning slightly backward, she looked at Qiu Tu, not showing much surprise on her face, "Last night, I hinted to her about you and this case."


    "Although she didn''t say much, I could feel she was a bit interested."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then asked, "How much do you know about Tang Feifei?"


    "Being at such a high position at a young age, is there something special about her?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping hesitated for a bit, then said, "She is very cautious. She never reveals her own background."


    "So I don''t know much."


    "But based on her few remarks, I feel that she must have some backing at the Sanctuary. But... this backing doesn''t seem very strong."


    "The reason she could become a city''s Deputy Director at such a young age, aside from the help of her backers, is also because she is very capable."


    Pausing for a moment, Liu Fuping continued, "You''ll know once you meet her. That powerful confidence of hers radiates from the inside out."


    "It''s as if there''s nothing in this world that can stump her."


    Liu Fuping''s gaze carried a hint of heartfelt admiration as she recalled, "I have never seen a woman like her."


    "Hmm... don''t even talk about women, I haven''t even seen men like that."


    Next, Liu Fuping provided Qiu Tu with many details about her interactions with Tang Feifei, even sharing quite a few bedroom anecdotes.


    While Qiu Tu listened with rising excitement, he also continuously constructed a character model in his mind.


    Gradually, the image of Tang Feifei in his heart became more vivid.


    ''Powerful, confident, ruthless. She acts decisively, speaks in a low and icy tone, comes across as difficult to approach, yet is actually very sentimental.''


    ''Even when faced with setbacks, she is unyielding, still full of confidence in herself, believing in her day to make a comeback.''


    ''Hmm... a typical Action-Oriented Person. That''s actually good news. After all, strong-willed women of the Action-Oriented type are much easier to deal with than those of the Rational Planner type.''


    Having determined Tang Feifei''s personality type, Qiu Tu''s plan in his mind also became more refined: He could probably be more aggressive.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was deep in thought, Liu Fuping, who had just finished sharing anecdotes about Tang Feifei, looked up at Qiu Tu''s handsome and sunny profile.


    She paused for a moment.


    Not sure if it was an illusion, but after that heartfelt flirtation just now, Liu Fuping felt her feelings for Qiu Tu had undergone a slight change...


    Only, she herself was a bit unclear what that change was...


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +12]


    Looking at the sudden pop-up notification in front of her eyes.


    Qiu Tu, who was still scheming about how to entangle Tang Feifei in his plans, was taken aback for a moment before regaining his composure.


    He looked down at Liu Fuping, who was still in contemplation, and two question marks appeared in his mind: ??


    What''s with this woman? Why did her Loyalty suddenly skyrocket?


    .....


    After confirming the information about Tang Feifei with Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu went to Jia Shu to collect the Cataclysm Prop he had applied for the day before.


    This time Jia Shu didn''t say anything strange, nor did he give Qiu Tu a hard time, but naturally handed over a black case to Qiu Tu.


    However, what made Qiu Tu uneasy was that Jia Shu''s eyes seemed to hold a weird smile when looking at him today... it gave him goosebumps.


    And what was even weirder to him was that today when he had done nothing out of the ordinary, upon leaving Jia Shu''s office, Jia Shu''s [Satisfaction] still increased by 2 points...


    This left him once again puzzled.


    What''s going on? Are all those who work in secret agencies so unreasonable?


    You do nothing, and yet one person''s Loyalty suddenly increases, and another''s Satisfaction goes up?


    That''s just too weird! Regular subordinates are much better, at least you can understand what they''re thinking!


    ....


    The day flew by in the blink of an eye.


    Soon it was time to get off work again.


    Qiu Tu sent all his team members home, but he himself stayed behind, against the rules of the investigation team: he worked overtime alone.


    The reason for his overtime was simple: Qin Shuman had promised to help him with the investigation into Yin Caimei''s cause of death tonight.


    Waiting patiently in the temporary office, Qiu Tu reviewed the autopsy report provided by Forensic Doctor Qin that afternoon while waiting for Qin Shuman to contact him.


    As time ticked by, soon it was eight o''clock in the evening.


    Just as Qiu Tu was almost getting bored with the autopsy report,


    Suddenly, someone knocked gently on the door of the temporary office of the investigation team.


    Hearing the knock, a smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. He put down the autopsy report, adjusted his emotions, and then said in his deep and magnetic voice, "Come in."


    The next second, the office door was opened from the outside.


    A woman walked in gracefully and laughed lightly at Qiu Tu, "Were you getting anxious?"


    Seeing Qin Shuman in her new body, Qiu Tu was completely dumbfounded, almost unable to control his expression.


    ''Why is it her?''

 Chapter 101 - 88: Cataclysmic Treasure: Cursed Printing Machine (7k for Monthly Ticket)

    Yan Chen might have noticed something off about Qiu Tu''s expression.


    Qin Shuman turned around to close the door, then looked down at her new body with curiosity, and asked, "What''s wrong? Do you know Xiaowan?"


    Qiu Tu said with a strange look on his face, "It''s not that I know her. It''s just... that I just met her this morning."


    After finishing his words, Qiu Tu addressed Qin Shuman, now in possession of the new body, "I''m not wrong, am I? Assistant Su Xiaowan."


    Yes, the person who appeared in front of Qiu Tu was indeed the beautiful assistant who had stopped his car that morning to recruit him for Tang Fei.


    Upon this realization, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take a deep look at Qin Shuman.


    The Security Department truly deserved its reputation as the most powerful among the three major authorities in Xinjie City.


    They not only planted a nail next to Yan Chen, the Investigation Bureau Chief, but had also planted a spy by the side of Tang Fei, the Deputy Director.


    And both spies were the closest people to them!


    One a bedmate, the other an assistant.


    If those two made a move, how much could the Investigation Bureau possibly keep secret from the Security Department?


    While Qiu Tu was contemplating this, Qin Shuman seemed to have had a brief exchange with Su Xiaowan and learned about the complete process of their encounter that day.


    After understanding, she covered her mouth and giggled, "You two seem to have quite the fate, don''t you?"


    "How about it? Want me to introduce her to you?"


    At this, Qin Shuman threw a coquettish glance at Qiu Tu and teasingly said, "I''ll tell you, Xiaowan is really adorable~"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Seeing the shell of Su Xiaowan reveal Qin Shuman''s playfully cute expression, Qiu Tu''s heart couldn''t help but skip a beat.


    That contrast of an unfamiliar appearance with a familiar expression poked right at his XP.


    It made him recall a life-and-death question he had seen online in his previous life: If your girlfriend and her best friend swapped bodies, who would you choose?


    Good lord. Was there even a need to choose?


    Of course you''d take them both.


    So... faced with the current situation, Qiu Tu really just wanted to say one thing:


    "The soul of Rain Butterfly is the only thing I love. As for whose shell it is, I don''t care at all¡ªyes, really don''t care (wiping drool)!"


    Of course, this thought, like that life-and-death question from his previous life, was not something to be said out loud, so although he was running wild with his thoughts, he forced a bitter smile and said, "Stop it now. You''ll scare Assistant Su."


    Qin Shuman laughed and finally stopped teasing them.


    Because Qiu Tu was not in that body, he couldn''t hear Su Xiaowan''s cries, but she shared a body with Su Xiaowan, and when she had thrown that seductive look at Qiu Tu and teased him, Su Xiaowan''s screams almost burst through the heavens!


    Walking up to Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman returned to being serious. She reached out her delicate hand and gently touched Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu heard another woman''s voice beside his ear.


    Qiu Tu looked at Qin Shuman in surprise.


    Qin Shuman explained, "This is soul communication, which allows you to hear not only my voice but also Xiaowan''s."


    "However, this communication is short-range. You can only hear it if you are within two meters of me."


    Then, Qin Shuman also softly revealed Su Xiaowan''s identity, "Xiaowan is one of the first spies I trained after coming to Xinjie City."


    "Although her abilities are average, she naturally possesses a kind of affinity that makes people unconsciously want to trust her, which makes her perfectly suited for espionage."


    "After I trained her, I arranged for her to infiltrate the Investigation Bureau, lurking beside Tang Fei."


    "Over the course of the year, I possessed her periodically to handle her official duties, and combined with her own affinity, she was quickly favored by Tang Fei and became Tang Fei''s personal assistant."


    Hearing Qin Shuman explain this way, Su Xiaowan added from within the body, "But... since my abilities fall quite short of Chief Rain Butterfly''s, I always mess things up when she''s not around."


    "So... Director Tang gave me a nickname, calling me ''The Half-Dreaming, Half-Awake Assistant Su.''"


    "It means my performance is unpredictable, and nobody knows whether I''m awake or asleep on any given day."


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but chuckle at this, yet he found the nickname both apt and amusing.


    He didn''t expect Tang Fei to have such a side to her.


    After introducing Su Xiaowan''s identity, Qin Shuman continued, "The reason I brought her here tonight."


    "One is to let you two get to know each other better so that you can help each other in case of emergencies."


    "Two is... I think Xiaowan''s identity might be of help to you right now."


    "As Tang Fei''s assistant, she can serve as a bridge between you and Tang Fei, giving you more room to maneuver in the Investigation Bureau."


    At this, Qin Shuman paused for a moment, chuckled, and said, "Yet... it seems like you had already thought of this and prepared in advance."


    "It almost makes what I did superfluous." S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu smiled without denying, "I was driven into a corner, and that''s when I thought of leveraging the relationships of the directors to make a move."


    "Originally, I was only 70% sure about my plan, but now with Assistant Su''s help, I feel 100% confident."


    Qin Shuman smiled at this, and the two exchanged a knowing look, where all was understood without saying a word.


    However, Su Xiaowan clearly didn''t understand the hidden meaning in their words and expressed her soul''s confusion from within her body, "Huh? Did Chief Qiu deliberately draw Director Tang here?"


    "But that''s wrong. Chief Qiu and Director Tang had no contact at all, so how did he manage it?"


    "What''s the next plan, Chief Qiu? I don''t understand anything you guys are saying at all?"


    Upon hearing Su Xiaowan''s bewildered question, both Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman couldn''t help but chuckle.


    However, they did not clear up Xiaowan''s confusion and tacitly began to discuss serious matters.


    Qin Shuman asked, "Has the autopsy report of Yin Caimei come out yet?"


    Qiu Tu nodded. He then handed the autopsy report he was holding to Qin Shuman and said,


    "The forensic scientist found significant narrowing in Yin Caimei''s coronary arteries, with local stenosis exceeding 50%, atherosclerotic plaques formation, myocardial interstitial edema, and wavy changes in patchy myocardial fibers. Hence, the conclusion was made that she died of a cardiac sudden death."


    After carefully reading the autopsy report, Qin Shuman remarked, "Indeed, sudden death is a possibility."


    "But... many Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic props could also create similar effects."


    "Or rather, most Cataclysmics disguise their victims as having died of cardiac sudden death when killing with Cataclysmic abilities or treasures."


    "After all, simply erasing the soul, leaving no cause of death, is too obvious and would easily attract our Security Department''s investigation."


    "Therefore, we still need to conduct a further examination on Yin Caimei''s body."


    After speaking, Qin Shuman inquired, "Have you obtained the treasure for Catastrophe Power inspection?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, opened a drawer, took out the black box that Jia Shu had given him, and gently opened it.


    As the box opened, white mist slowly drifted out from inside.


    Qiu Tu used his hand to disperse the mist, then took out a black goatskin-covered notebook.


    The notebook looked extraordinary at first glance, not only because of its exquisite craftsmanship but also because of the white mist seeping from the title page.


    Additionally, the wet feeling of the black goatskin cover had a peculiar beauty to it.


    "The Mist Index Book?" Qin Shuman glanced at it and remarked, "Not bad. It should be enough with that."


    Having said that, Qin Shuman said, "Put it back, let''s go and take a look at Yin Caimei''s body now."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then placed the black notebook back into the box, and together with Qin Shuman, they went to the morgue.


    Upon reaching the separate morgue, Yin Caimei''s body was still lying there quietly.


    Because it had been autopsied and had been dead for a day, it looked somewhat ghastly, and it even began emitting bursts of the smell of corpse decay.


    As professionals, the three of them did not pay much attention to this.


    Locking the door of the morgue, Qin Shuman took a pair of rubber gloves from her pocket, put them on, and carefully inspected Yin Caimei''s body.


    After the inspection, she wore a contemplative expression on her face and then said to Qiu Tu, "Take out the Mist Index Book."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu opened the black box, took out the Mist Index Book, and handed it to Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman took the Mist Index Book with a practiced air, drew several symbols on the cover, and instantly, the book opened by itself. Dense white mist crazily surged out from the Cataclysmic treasure and swiftly spread to every corner of the morgue.


    The mist filled the air, and the material world seemed to vibrate subtly.


    Qiu Tu looked around and noticed the scene was somewhat similar to when he used his Cataclysmic ability. All the lines around him seemed to be gradually withdrawn, and they were slowly moving from the real world to the spirit world...


    At the same time, Qin Shuman''s reassuring voice echoed in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Don''t be afraid, this is the non-material dimension I told you about before."


    "Every space and corner of the material world, even the air, is filled with various active particles."


    "Therefore, traces of the spirit cannot be observed in the real world."


    "Only by transcending the material world and ascending to the dimension of the spirit world can the residual traces of the spirit be seen."


    As Qin Shuman explained, without any visible action on her part, a ghostly silhouette of Yin Caimei''s body slowly emerged from the white fog.


    However, unlike in the real world, this time a distinct black shadow appeared very clearly within the translucent silhouette of Yin Caimei.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu tried to walk over for a closer look, then he discovered that the black shadow was located exactly over Yin Caimei''s left chest.


    "Could it be Resentful Spirit Entanglement?" Meanwhile, Qin Shuman''s voice of surprise reached Qiu Tu''s ears.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu looked curiously at Qin Shuman and asked, puzzled, "What is Resentful Spirit Entanglement?"


    Qin Shuman was silent for a moment, then said, "It is said that within the Anti-government Armed Forces, there exists a Cataclysmic treasure known as the Cursed Printing Machine."


    "It can use ink tainted by Cataclysmic Creatures and special paper that has been purified by the non-material dimension to print books that have the ability to distort reality."


    "These books look no different from normal ones. But in fact, they contain various curses."


    "Resentful Spirit Entanglement is one of them."


    "Once someone has flipped through that book, the printer of the book can afflict the reader with a curse of resentment, causing the reader''s body to deteriorate, decay, and even... lead to death."


    ''Cursed Printing Machine? Books that distort reality?''


    ''Afflicting readers with a curse?''


    For some reason, as Qiu Tu listened to Qin Shuman''s explanation, he felt as though the information was strangely familiar.


    After a moment, a flash of lightning crossed his mind!


    His heart gave a sudden throb as he recalled the book he had read, "Brave New World"...


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman evidently made the connection as well.


    She involuntarily looked towards Qiu Tu, and as their eyes met, both were filled with horror!


    ------

 Chapter 102 - 89: The Shocked Qin Shuman (7k)

    Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu and then asked softly, "I remember you said last night that among Yin Caimei''s personal belongings, there was a banned book?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes. It''s called ''Brave New World''."


    Qin Shuman''s gaze grew a bit profound, "Have you already read that book?"


    Qiu Tu recalled for a moment and said uncertainly, "I should have only flipped through seven or eight pages, just skimmed it really, without looking closely."


    Qin Shuman''s eyebrows knitted slightly, "Although we can''t be 100% certain, the anti-government organization imprinting curses on banned books for members to carry around and read, so as to conveniently dispose of them at any time, is indeed a rather reasonable guess."


    Qiu Tu said, "So you also suspect that book could very well be the carrier of the ''Resentment Entanglement''?"


    "Have I been targeted already?"


    Chin in hand, Qin Shuman reminisced and slowly said, "I''m not very familiar with the effects of the ''Cursed Printing Machine''."


    "I only heard some rumors about it during training at the Sanctuary."


    "So, I can''t be sure what the impact of just reading a few pages will be, nor whether there''s any danger to life."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman seemed to make up her mind, and she said to Qiu Tu, "I feel that guessing back and forth here accomplishes little when we could simply verify it directly."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu''s reaction before she deactivated the effect of the ''Mist Index Book'' and then used it on Qiu Tu again.


    Qin Shuman was clearly worried about Qiu Tu''s condition, acting with incredible speed, so much so that Qiu Tu didn''t even have a chance to refuse before feeling a mysterious force appear out of nowhere, descending upon him.


    In that moment, Qiu Tu''s complexion changed several times, but in the end, he chose to accept Qin Shuman''s kindness.


    The mist once again appeared slowly, filling the entire morgue.


    Lines began to extricate, and the material world started to fade away gradually.


    Soon, Qiu Tu''s body was illuminated in the mist just like Yin Caimei''s corpse.


    Qin Shuman approached to examine the traces of Catastrophe Power outlined on Qiu Tu''s body by the ''Mist Index Book''.


    ''Hmm... traces of Catastrophe Power in the head, that''s not good.''


    ''Traces of Catastrophe Power in the neck, hmm, that''s normal.''


    ''Traces of Catastrophe Power in the limbs, organs too...''


    ''How is the effect of this ''Resentment Entanglement'' curse so strong?''


    "Hmm?" Qin Shuman was startled momentarily, sensing something was amiss.


    She quickly stepped back and studied Qiu Tu''s entire body, only to discover that every organ, every cell in Qiu Tu''s body was filled with Catastrophe Power!


    Qin Shuman stood shocked, somewhat dazed!


    ''How could there be so much!?''


    The next second, Qin Shuman realized!


    This wasn''t the effect of Resentment Entanglement! This was... Catastrophic ability enhancing the entire body!


    Qiu Tu was actually a Cataclysmic!


    With that thought, Qin Shuman became entirely enlightened.


    She watched Qiu Tu with some disbelief. When had it happened? When had Qiu Tu become a Cataclysmic?


    She thought back but had no recollection.


    And... wasn''t Qiu Tu, like herself, in possession of this body?


    Could one still undergo Cataclysm Awakening after possession?


    Does this awakened Cataclysmic ability belong to the soul, the original body, or the current body?


    If I, Qin Shuman, were to take over Su Xiaowan''s body and then drink the Cataclysmic Potion, would it be I or Su Xiaowan who awakens?


    Qin Shuman felt question upon question piling up in her mind, overwhelming her thoughts.


    Fortunately, at this time, she hadn''t forgotten the reason she used the ''Mist Index Book'' on Qiu Tu.


    She forced herself to come back to her senses and then observed Qiu Tu''s left chest area for a while.


    This time, disregarding the disturbance from Qiu Tu''s own Cataclysmic abilities, she finally saw that smidgen of ''Resentment Entanglement'' enveloping Qiu Tu''s heart.


    The bad news was, Qiu Tu had indeed been targeted.


    The good news, however... was that the amount of ''Resentment Entanglement'' was much smaller than the traces left on Yin Caimei''s body.


    Qin Shuman breathed a sigh of relief, feeling that even if the curse erupted, it would at most cause Qiu Tu discomfort for a few days without threatening his life.


    But after relaxing, Qin Shuman also felt a tinge of self-reproach for worrying unnecessarily on his behalf.


    Although she was unclear about what Qiu Tu''s former identity was,


    the fact that he could so quickly obtain the Cataclysm Prop that allowed her to recover and that he could experience Cataclysm Awakening while in possession clearly indicated... he was someone significant in the past.


    Very likely, a High Order Catastrophist.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu might be out of his depth when it comes to investigating cases, but dealing with these Cataclysmic abilities, Cataclysm curses was likely not a big problem for him.


    With that thought, Qin Shuman once again lifted the effect of the ''Mist Index Book'' and said somewhat lacklusterly, "You were indeed targeted, but it''s not a major problem."


    Having said that, she gave Qiu Tu another complicated look and added, "But you weren''t really worried about this Catastrophe Curse, were you?"


    Actually... when Qin Shuman used the ''Mist Index Book'' on him, Qiu Tu''s heart had skipped a beat.


    Having lived two lives, he had grown accustomed to keeping his guard up against anyone.


    So even though his relationship with Qin Shuman had grown quite close, he had never told her about his own Cataclysm Awakening.


    He had even intentionally used the ''Nightmare Crystal Vial'' to conceal this from her while treating Qin Shuman.


    Who would have thought that Qin Shuman, worried about him, would use the ''Mist Index Book'' on him.


    Qiu Tu had indeed witnessed the effect of the "Mist Index Book" a moment ago, which essentially outlined a person''s entire Catastrophe Power.


    Therefore, the moment Qin Shuman used it on him, he knew he was in trouble: Qin Shuman would definitely discover the fact that he was a Catastrophic.


    As expected, it was not beyond his expectations; after inspecting his body, Qin Shuman''s expression seemed a bit off.


    Furthermore, with that hint of sarcasm in her speech now¡­ it was clear she was angry.


    So, after pondering for half a second, Qiu Tu still chose to tell the truth, "Yes, I have a way to lift the curse."


    What Qiu Tu actually meant was that his Catastrophic ability was a bit special and could lift such Catastrophe Curses.


    But to Qin Shuman''s ears, it turned into an acknowledgment that Qiu Tu''s former identity was not trivial, and that such a low-level curse was nothing in his eyes.


    So, Qin Shuman confirmed her speculation once again: Qiu Tu must have indeed been a High Order Catastrophic in the past.


    Only... thinking about this, she was a bit puzzled again:


    If Qiu Tu''s true form was a High Order Catastrophic and he also had a way to lift possession, then why hadn''t he returned to his original form all this time?


    Why had he been possessing "Qiu Tu" all along? Was it for Yan Chen?


    After all, the highest-ranking person that the identity "Qiu Tu" could get close to was Yan Chen.


    Thinking of this, Qin Shuman followed this line of thought and continued to ponder¡­


    Who, and what force, would need to investigate Yan Chen?


    Moreover, recalling Qiu Tu''s actions during this period: he was neither close to the Investigation Bureau nor familiar with the Anti-government Armed Forces, and was even disinterested in those big businessmen...


    On the contrary, he was very close to her and the Security Department.


    With this realization, Qin Shuman suddenly had a bright idea...


    ''Could he be a private soldier of some big shot from the military, or an investigator dispatched to the Planning Area from the Sanctuary?''


    ''But then... I haven''t heard of such a person coming to Xinjie City on a secret mission...''


    Guessing and guessing, due to the scarcity of information, Qin Shuman felt that the mist surrounding Qiu Tu was growing thicker.


    Therefore, she could only temporarily suppress her speculations about Qiu Tu''s identity:


    She knew all too well that those working on the secret front despise others probing into their true identities.


    Up until now, Qiu Tu had never harmed her, nor had he damaged the interests of the Security Department or the military. Thus, there was no need to clarify his identity. It was better to just interact with him over time.


    Especially since... with the current case potentially involving the Anti-government Armed Forces, helping Qiu Tu was also helping herself; there was a chance to gain merit, so there was no loss!


    With this in mind, Qin Shuman adjusted her mood, then said to Qiu Tu, "Since you can lift that curse, I don''t need to worry."


    "Let''s continue to analyze the case."


    She paused for a moment, then said, "We can confirm now that Yin Caimei was indeed a victim of homicide."


    "And the likely culprit is the Anti-government Armed Forces she was part of: the United Front."


    "As for the murder weapon, considering the curse inflicted on you, there''s a 90% chance it was that Banned Book she always carried with her."


    While saying that, Qin Shuman tapped the "Mist Index Book" in her hand and added, "So, what we need to do now is to confirm the murder weapon."


    "After all, although ''Brave New World'' is 90% likely to be the murder weapon, investigation requires not 90%, not 99%, but 100% certainty!"


    "Besides the Banned Book being the weapon: you and Yin Caimei might have seen the same thing, drunk the same water source, or eaten the same food that could have led to you both suffering the same curse."


    "Even..."


    "We can''t rule out the tiny possibility that someone crazily afflicted random individuals or a large area in the Investigation Bureau with a curse."


    Pausing, Qin Shuman became serious, "Investigations must be meticulous."


    "So, let us first confirm the murder weapon before moving on to the next step in reasoning."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded his head.


    He knew he was a novice detective, far less experienced than Qin Shuman. But his strength was that he took advice well. So he immediately replied, "That copy of ''Brave New World'' is still in the temporary office of the investigation team."


    "I will go get it now, then compare it with the Catastrophe Curse on Yin Caimei''s body."


    Having said that, he turned towards the door.


    However, just as he reached the door and his hand touched the doorknob, sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    suddenly, from outside the door came the steady sound of boots: "Tap... tap... tap..."


    Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, and his movements paused.


    "Tap... tap... tap..." The footsteps continued to approach, and finally... stopped right outside the morgue door.


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, and he let go of the doorknob.


    Then, at this moment, the doorknob which he had released turned a few times, making a "clicking" sound.


    But since Qiu Tu had locked the morgue door upon entering, it didn''t open.


    This clearly took the person outside by surprise.


    After a half-second of silence, the person outside asked in a deep voice, "Who''s in there?"


    At the sound of the person''s voice, Qiu Tu was taken aback, then his heart suddenly leapt.


    It was the voice of Zheng Tao, a confidant of Yan Chen and Jia Shu, his superior and head of the Interrogation Section.


    ''Why has he come?'' Qiu Tu wondered.


    At this thought, Qiu Tu''s brow knitted slightly, sensing something was amiss.

 Chapter 103 - 90 This Person is Somewhat Abnormal (7k for followers)

    Qiu Tu had good reason to feel that something was off.


    This morgue had been specifically requested by him to store Yin Caimei''s body alone.


    And given Zheng Tao''s footsteps just now, he wasn''t making rounds on the floor but coming straight for this morgue.


    But the problem was... the Yin Caimei case was assigned to Qiu Tu alone by Jia Shu, and it had nothing to do with the Interrogation Section.


    Furthermore, Zheng Tao was not a member of the investigation team, so he had no reason to come to this morgue.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu quietly took a few steps back to create the illusion that he was not by the door and then finally called out, "I''m inside."


    Zheng Tao was clearly familiar with Qiu Tu''s voice, so as soon as he heard it, he hesitated and asked, "Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also pretended to be suddenly aware and said, "Oh, it''s Chief Zheng. What''s the matter?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu gave Qin Shuman a meaningful look.


    Qin Shuman tacitly handed the "Mist Index Book" to Qiu Tu and then took a glance around the entire morgue.


    Finally, she crawled into a morgue cabinet.


    At this time, Zheng Tao''s doubtful voice also came through, "What are you doing in the morgue?"


    Qiu Tu quietly closed that morgue cabinet and then walked to the door, opening the morgue room door.


    Standing outside the door, as expected, was a puzzled Zheng Tao.


    Qiu Tu, standing at the doorway, said with a smile, "How novel. I''m obviously performing an autopsy in the morgue. What else would I be here for, to be a corpse?"


    After being indirectly snubbed by Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao frowned, peered into the morgue, and then asked, "Are you investigating a case, Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, but he nodded nonetheless, "Yes."


    After speaking, he countered, "What brings Chief Zheng strolling around the morgue so late without going off duty?"


    Zheng Tao responded with an "Oh," saying, "Nothing much, just making a routine inspection."


    "I noticed the lights on in your morgue, and it seemed like there was some faint talking inside, so I decided to check it out."


    He then gestured with his hand, "Do you mind if I take a look inside?"


    Although he asked, he had already started to step into the morgue even before finishing his question.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze darkened slightly, but he did not obstruct.


    Zheng Tao, with boots clacking "tap... tap... tap..." on the floor, took a slow look around the morgue''s setup. "Are you here by yourself, Deputy Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a confirming "Mm."


    As soon as he realized that Zheng Tao was outside the door, Qiu Tu pondered whether or not to let Zheng Tao meet Qin Shuman (Su Xiaowan).


    But considering that he and Tang Feifei had yet to really connect, exposing Su Xiaowan now could lead to various complications. In the end, he decided that it was best for Qin Shuman (Su Xiaowan) to hide and for him to deal with the situation at the door.


    Originally, he thought he would just brush Zheng Tao off and send him away.


    But who could have expected that Zheng Tao came to check specifically because he faintly heard voices and that he would barge in directly, completely ignoring Qiu Tu''s refusal? It was a clear lack of respect.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s resistant mood, Zheng Tao, while lifting the white cloth over Yin Caimei''s corpse to glance at it, turned back to look at Qiu Tu and said smilingly, "Don''t get me wrong, Deputy Chief Qiu."


    "I''m not being nosy."


    "It''s just that... as you know, this world is filled with many strange, ''Mystery'' powers."


    "And bodies tend to attract these kinds of forces."


    "I did indeed hear some odd sounds, and for peace of mind, I needed to check more thoroughly."


    After speaking, he went to the morgue cabinets on either side and started to pull them out with a "shrr-shrr" noise.


    Since this morgue room had been cleared specifically for Yin Caimei, all the cabinets were empty.


    Zheng Tao would open one, glance inside, close it, and then open the next.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also took out the "Mist Index Book," then said, "Chief Zheng, could it be the sounds emitted from this ''Cataclysmic treasure'' that you were talking about?"


    He added, "I was just using this to inspect Yin Caimei''s body."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao stopped in his tracks in front of the cabinet where Qin Shuman was hiding.


    He turned to look at the ''Cataclysmic treasure'' in Qiu Tu''s eyes, showing a glint of contemplation.


    After a moment, he nodded affirmatively, "It''s possible."


    "After all, ''Cataclysmic treasures'' may indeed make various noises when in use."


    With that, he yanked open the cabinet where Qin Shuman was hidden!


    Inside the cabinet...


    It was empty.


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao slowly closed the cabinet and then proceeded to open each of the remaining morgue cabinets.


    Soon, all the cabinets had been checked.


    Zheng Tao took another look around the morgue and then turned to Qiu Tu with a smile, "Looks like it was indeed the ''Cataclysmic treasures'' making the noise."


    "I was too sensitive."


    Concluding, he walked over to Qiu Tu, clapped him on the shoulder, and comforted him, "Chief Qiu, you''ve worked hard."


    "Seeing you volunteer for overtime tonight instead of leaving early like yesterday pleases me." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "As investigators, we ought to use every minute and every second to work hard. Only then can we become the right-hand men of the Bureau Chief in the future."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Although this world does not have the phrase ''to serve the people,'' the blunt aspiration to be the leader''s ''lapdog'' still took Qiu Tu by surprise.


    So... he responded with a smile, "Chief Zheng is overthinking it. The overtime I''m putting in tonight, I''ll make up with a day off tomorrow."

 Chapter 104 - 90 This Person is Somewhat Abnormal (7k for followers)_2

    "I won''t be coming tomorrow morning."


    Just as Zheng Tao was about to walk out, he stumbled, nearly tripping over.


    He glared resentfully at Qiu Tu, huffed lightly, and then strode out of the morgue.


    After he had left, Qiu Tu didn''t let his guard down.


    He took a deep breath and then muttered to himself, "Ah, I still need to check the murder weapon."


    Having said that, he also stepped out of the mortuary to fetch the evidence...


    .....


    Once he had left, the entire morgue slowly fell into silence.


    No one knew how long had passed, perhaps a minute, or maybe five.


    In the quiet morgue, suddenly, the sound of a door handle "clicking" as it turned could be heard.


    But perhaps because Qiu Tu had locked the door before leaving, after a few twists, the door to the mortuary did not open.


    However, this time the person outside the door was clearly prepared.


    Inserting the key and turning it twice, the door opened, and Zheng Tao, who had left earlier, returned.


    He scanned the entire morgue with a brooding gaze, then went straight to open all the mortuary cabinets and pulled back the white cloth covering Yin Caimei''s body.


    After checking twice to make sure no one was there, Zheng Tao''s eyebrows furrowed.


    He restored everything to its original state, then left the morgue, relocking the door with a spare key.


    Standing at the entrance of the morgue, Zheng Tao''s gaze flickered a few times before he took out his communicator and dialed a number.


    Soon, the call connected.


    Zheng Tao spoke softly, "Minister, there is only Qiu Tu inside."


    A voice tinged with amusement came from the earpiece, "Oh? Is that so? Did you check carefully?"


    Zheng Tao replied, "Very carefully. I checked before he left and again after he left, and there was no one."


    "He should be working on the case alone tonight."


    Jia Shu spoke in a half-mocking tone, "Well, that''s good, that''s good."


    Zheng Tao was clearly puzzled, and he tentatively asked, "Minister, have you discovered something?"


    Jia Shu said with a laugh, "No, I was just a bit worried. Now it seems, my worries were unnecessary."


    For some reason, Zheng Tao detected a hint of disappointment in Jia Shu''s words.


    He was tempted to ask what Jia Shu was worried about, but knowing his superior''s character well, he opened his mouth but ultimately didn''t ask anything... Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile...


    [Jia Shu''s Suspicion -1, Satisfaction -3]


    In the temporary office of the Investigation Bureau, just as Qiu Tu had gotten his hands on "Brave New World," a prompt from the Loyalty Game appeared in front of him.


    He paused, then was full of question marks.


    ''Suspicion -1? Satisfaction -3?''


    Was he hallucinating?


    Why had both the suspicion and satisfaction decreased?


    Qiu Tu really felt he couldn''t understand Jia Shu''s game values at all.


    What the hell was this all about?


    Could it be that Jia Shu was actually a spy?


    And he was disappointed upon discovering Qiu Tu''s loyalty to the Investigation Bureau?


    Or was he a pervert who would only be satisfied if Qiu Tu betrayed the Investigation Bureau?


    Qiu Tu felt, indeed, perverted thoughts were hard to understand!


    While grumbling about Jia Shu in his mind, Qiu Tu took the evidence and headed to the morgue.


    Upon arriving at the morgue, he unlocked the door with his key and saw the rows of storage units. There stood Qin Shuman... right next to the particular unit she''d been hiding behind, her face a complex tapestry as she watched Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu first locked the door from the inside and then quietly asked, "Did he come again?"


    Qin Shuman slightly nodded her head.


    A smile spread across Qiu Tu''s face.


    Fortunately, when he realized Zheng Tao was problematic, he decisively used his Cataclysmic ability "Order Space" and set the rule for today: except for himself, no one else could see, hear, smell, touch, or sense Qin Shuman''s (Su Xiaowan''s) presence.


    And after he had left the morgue, he still hadn''t lifted the rule.


    That''s why Zheng Tao was unable to notice Qin Shuman''s existence during both of his investigations: in reality, Qin Shuman just lay quietly inside that particular storage unit.


    Moreover, what made Qiu Tu even more relieved was that both Su Xiaowan and Zheng Tao were ordinary people.


    If either of them were Cataclysmics like Qin Shuman or Jia Shu, then Qiu Tu''s ability would have been ineffective and he wouldn''t have been able to deceive them as he had managed to do.


    At that time, he would have had to fabricate even more excuses and lies to cover things up.


    Indeed, Cataclysmic abilities can change the world!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu lifted his Cataclysmic ability and handed over the "Mist Index Book" and "Brave New World" to Qin Shuman.


    Feeling the unpleasant sensation of his spirit power being drained, Qiu Tu managed to speak, "Help me see if this book is the murder weapon."


    Qin Shuman glanced at him with a complex look, took the book, and used the "Mist Index Book."


    After a moment, just as Qiu Tu felt the side effects of the Cataclysmic ability fading away, Qin Shuman''s voice also reached his ears, "I''ve checked. This book indeed is the murder weapon."


    Qiu Tu looked up at Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman showed him a smile, and then she said,


    "Since this book is the weapon that killed Yin Caimei,"


    "then¡­ this case now has only one mystery left to solve."


    "That is, who gave this book to Yin Caimei,"


    "Once we understand this, we can largely determine who the murderer is,"


    "and...," Qin Shuman paused, a glint of cold light flashing in her eyes, "the murderer is most likely a mole from the Anti-government Armed Forces!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu lightly nodded and then asked, "So, who do you think gave her the book?"


    After pondering for a moment, Qin Shuman shook her head slightly, "It''s hard to say. Too many people are suspects. Like Vice President Tian, like those transporters, like one of her friends."


    "You had better investigate people close to Yin Caimei or Vice President Tian,"


    "and find out when exactly this book appeared in her hands,"


    "This will help us narrow down the suspects quickly,"


    At this point, Qin Shuman paused a moment and added, "Let''s hope it''s not something she brought with her when she left the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, a thoughtful look crossed Qiu Tu''s face as he slightly shook his head, "It''s unlikely that she had it from the beginning."


    "According to previous statements, her encounter with Vice President Tian was by chance,"


    "The Anti-government Armed Forces likely don''t have the resources to provide every ordinary Scout with a Cataclysmic treasure capable of silencing others, right?"


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s analysis, Qin Shuman also nodded slightly.


    Meanwhile, as the two conversed,


    suddenly, Qiu Tu''s communicator rang with a "ring ring ring."


    Qiu Tu took the communicator out of his pocket to check it, his face lighting up with a brilliant smile, "The messenger has arrived,"


    he showed the caller ID to Qin Shuman.


    It displayed prominently: Tian Xiaotian¡­


    ------

 Chapter 105 - 91: The Puppet Master Appears (7k for Monthly Ticket)

    ```


    Seeing the name that appeared on Qiu Tu''s communicator screen, Qin Shuman froze for a moment. Then she looked at Qiu Tu with a slightly complicated expression.


    To be honest, Qiu Tu really gave her a lot of surprises today... and scares.


    First, she accidentally discovered through the "Mist Index Book" that Qiu Tu was actually a Cataclysmic.


    Moreover, he was one who could still partake in a successful Cataclysm Awakening after possession of another person''s body.


    This unheard-of incident had already shaken her worldview.


    Then, right after that, there was the incident where she hid in the morgue cabinet and wasn''t found by Zheng Tao.


    Honestly, at the moment Zheng Tao pulled open the morgue cabinet, Qin Shuman''s heart nearly leaped to her throat. Even her mind had started to rapidly think of ways to deal with the imminent crisis.


    But who knew that Zheng Tao would act as if he hadn''t seen her and closed the morgue cabinet again.


    At that moment, Qin Shuman was truly bewildered for a good ten seconds. It was only after combining the mysterious force that had descended upon her that she guessed Qiu Tu might have used his Cataclysmic ability or treasures to pull the wool over everyone''s eyes.


    And now, Qiu Tu had already established contact early on with Tian Xiaotian, the son of Vice President Tian, getting Tian Xiaotian to provide him with information about his father.


    Honestly, Qin Shuman felt like she was refreshing her understanding of Qiu Tu over and over again today.


    But it seemed like Qiu Tu always had new surprises waiting for her.


    This also made Qiu Tu''s image in her heart increasingly mysterious...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had no idea what Qin Shuman was thinking.


    After showing the communicator to Qin Shuman, he laughed and answered the call.


    Once the call connected, the somewhat honest voice of Tian Xiaotian came from the receiver, "Chief Qiu?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "Brother Tian. We don''t use titles after work."


    Tian Xiaotian didn''t really care about titles or such formalities, so he just went with the flow and called him again, "Brother Tu."


    Qiu Tu acknowledged with a "Hey!" and then probed, "Brother Tian, have you made a decision?"


    Tian Xiaotian hummed affirmatively over the phone and said, "Yes."


    "I''ve thought it over long and hard at home. I feel that cooperating with you would indeed make it easier to clear my father of suspicion."


    "Plus, I want to do something for my father, so I made this call to you."


    After saying this, he paused and asked tentatively, "Brother Tu, is it true that by providing ''Travel Records'' and ''Gift Registry'' from the past year between my father and Yin Caimei, you can help my father?"


    When Qiu Tu first spoke to Tian Xiaotian that morning, he had merely been looking for an excuse to drag Tian Xiaotian into the mix.


    But now, having found the murder weapon and the most crucial clue to the case, Qiu Tu did only need Yin Caimei''s ''Itinerary'' and ''Gift Registry'' from the past year to significantly narrow down the range of suspects.


    So without any hesitation, he said, "Yes."


    Hearing this, Tian Xiaotian obviously breathed a sigh of relief, then he said, "I''ve got both documents."


    "I found them in my father''s secretary''s office."


    "Inside, there''s a record of all the travel between my father and Yin Caimei for the year. While it may not be complete, it should be fairly comprehensive."


    "How should I get them to you?"


    Upon hearing Tian Xiaotian''s words, a trace of excitement flickered through Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    He quickly said, "Leave me an address. I''ll come over right away, and we can meet and talk."


    Tian Xiaotian, sounding as if he was stealing something, whispered out an address.


    Looking at the location of the address, those documents must have just been stolen from Vice President Tian''s company.


    Qiu Tu quickly jotted down the address, then finally hung up the phone...


    .....


    At the same time.


    Xintian Communications Company, General Manager''s Secretary Office.


    Tian Xiaotian put down the phone, his face showing a conflicted yet bewildered expression.


    He wasn''t sure if he was doing the right thing.


    But... based on Butler Shi''s investigation of Qiu Tu, everything Qiu Tu told him today hadn''t been a lie:


    Qiu Tu was indeed just an ordinary civilian from Xinjie City at the beginning. Later, during the recruitment drive by the Investigation Bureau, he was selected because he could read, write, and drive, and was assigned to work in the Administrative Office as a clerical investigator.


    Afterward, having performed well in the Administrative Office, he was noticed by Secretary Bai, who then recommended him to Yan Chen, promoting him to Second-Class Investigator.


    Subsequently, because he saved Yan Chen''s mistress, Qiu Tu was promoted by Yan Chen to First Level Detective and was taken into the Political Department by Jia Shu to investigate the Qin Family.


    No one knew what he did in the Qin Family, but shortly after his arrival, the Patriarch of the Qin Family openly aligned with Yan Chen, and as a result, he was promoted to Chief Qiu.


    So, one could say that every step of Qiu Tu''s promotion was shadowed by Yan Chen''s faction, with Secretary Bai and Jia Shu, two of Yan Chen''s right-hand men, being his benefactors.


    With this in mind, Tian Xiaotian felt somewhat reassured: after all, if such a person couldn''t be trusted, then who else in the Investigation Bureau could be trusted?


    It''s not like Qiu Tu would still harbor ill intentions towards Yan Chen and Jia Shu after being promoted to Deputy Staff, right?


    With this thought, Tian Xiaotian finally made up his mind.


    With a determined look in his eyes, he packed all the files into his backpack and then stealthily slipped out of the secretary''s office, heading downstairs.


    ```


    However, what he didn''t see was that, just as he turned the corner, the secretary to the Vice President Tian happened to walk by on the other side of the corridor.


    The secretary caught a glimpse of the broad back that flashed by the corner and hesitated for a moment.


    ''Was that President Tian''s son?''


    She looked at her office, then back at the empty corner, and shook her head slightly, paying it no mind.


    .....


    Driving with Qin Shuman, they arrived at the office building of Vice President Tian''s communications company. Qiu Tu met Tian Xiaotian alone in the alley next to the communications company and obtained the travel records and gift registry of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei.


    Before handing over the materials, Tian Xiaotian seemed a bit uneasy, so he clutched his backpack and asked Qiu Tu with his little eyes, "Brother Tu, swear to me! You truly want to help clear my father''s name!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate at all and made a vow, "Don''t worry. I swear on my patron Jia Shu, the minister. If I intend to harm your father, may he never rest in peace!"


    Tian Xiaotian sharply noticed the problem with this promise:


    Although Jia Shu indeed was Qiu Tu''s superior, but... Qiu Tu''s promotions had more to do with Yan Chen, right!


    He quickly took back his backpack, shaking his head, "No! You must swear on Director Yan!"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    ''Director Yan, this kid won''t let you off, ah. It has nothing to do with me.''


    While internally complaining, Qiu Tu yet again made a vow on Yan Chen''s life and fortune.


    This time, Tian Xiaotian finally showed a relieved expression on his face and confidently handed over the backpack to Qiu Tu.


    Taking the backpack and looking at the "foolish son of a landowner" in front of him, Qiu Tu felt as if his conscience was slightly troubled... so he kindly and tactfully reminded him, "Xiaotian, you should eat less when you can. Getting too fat can affect the blood supply to your brain."


    But to his surprise, Tian Xiaotian looked at Qiu Tu with astonishment and said, "Where am I fat? My dad said that I''m just... inactive because our house is too small, and my muscles are a bit slack, that''s all!"


    As he spoke, he couldn''t help but touch his belly, muttering quietly, "Now that you mention it, I do feel a bit hungry. I need to find something to eat later."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Indeed, you look hungry, so hungry you''re starting to talk nonsense....


    After saying goodbye to Tian Xiaotian, Qiu Tu returned to the car with the travel records and gift list.


    Qin Shuman had been waiting there, and the two of them sat in the car to sort through the box of materials.


    While organizing, Qiu Tu curiously asked, "Assistant Su has been quiet for a while, hasn''t she?"


    Qin Shuman chuckled lightly, "She''s asleep."


    "This girl has no other faults but just sleeps a lot."


    Qiu Tu laughed, commenting, "In this era, having good sleep quality is actually a bonus."


    Qin Shuman smiled and shook her head.


    As she continued to look through the materials, she added, "The approach you chose is very good."


    "Vice President Tian is not like ordinary people. He''s always busy with affairs, and everywhere he goes, he''s taken by car."


    "In the Planning Area, private cars are a rarity, and with the fuel being so expensive, each of his trips has to be recorded by the secretary, who then regularly checks the fuel costs with the drivers and the finance department."


    "Moreover, with his frequent business interactions and numerous social reciprocities, and since the value of gifts given and received must be at least equivalent, the secretary also organizes a gift list for easy reference when returning favors."


    "So, with these two sets of records, we can quickly understand Vice President Tian''s social and connection circles, and even determine his range of movements, secret bases, safe houses, and other hidden locations."


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile and flipped through the pages of the gift list rapidly.


    Both being Cataclysmics, their physical and their mental capacities were much stronger than those of ordinary people.


    So, in just a few short minutes, Qiu Tu quickly pulled out a gift list.


    He carefully reviewed it for a moment, his brows slightly furrowed, and he muttered softly, "Why would it be them?" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Noticing Qiu Tu''s unusual reaction, Qin Shuman put down the file she was looking through, looked up at him.


    Seeing him engrossed in the materials, she moved closer to Qiu Tu and started looking as well.


    After one glance, she too was a bit surprised, "The Qin Family?"


    She turned to Qiu Tu, and he just happened to turn his head to look at her.


    The space in the car was already narrow, and since they were so close to each other, as they met eyes, their noses touched together, and it felt like there was a faint current flowing between their lips.


    His nose filled with the scent of Su Xiaowan, looking at a face different from Qin Shuman with hints of naivety and innocence, and feeling Qin Shuman''s familiar expressions, gaze, and aura...


    Qiu Tu found his lips getting dry. The contrast of unfamiliarity mixed with familiarity made it all too easy to make a mistake...


    Qin Shuman clearly felt the change in Qiu Tu, coughed once, stepped back, and gently reminded him in a low voice, "Stop it. It''s weird."


    After saying that, she pointed to the name on that list, bringing the conversation back on track, "This Banned Book is actually related to the Qin Family?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu adjusted his emotions and refocused on the task at hand.


    The list indeed had connections to the Qin Family.


    It was from a small-scale dinner hosted by the Patriarch of the Qin Family.


    Not many attended the dinner, besides the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Qin Heng, and of the third house, Qin Shu, there were only a handful of others, most of whom were major businessmen associated with the Qin Family.

 Chapter 106 - 92: The Truth Surfaces (7k for follow-up reads!)

    And following the etiquette, after the banquet, everyone would exchange gifts with each other.


    The gift list recorded the presents that the Qin Family and other attendees had given to Vice President Tian....


    Within it, the book "Brave New World" was conspicuously listed.


    However, what was odd was that most gifts on the list had a record of who had sent them. The only exception was this book, which had no record whatsoever.


    It was as if... someone had secretly placed it in the pile of gifts.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced over the guest list from that banquet.


    Then his eyes slightly narrowed as he discovered another familiar name.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu quickly pointed to that name and said to Qin Shuman, "Look, who is this?"


    Qin Shuman followed the direction of Qiu Tu''s finger and saw a name she recognized: Shun Yun Trading Co., Ltd.''s Qian Dafu.


    Upon seeing this name, Qin Shuman fell into thought for a moment; then her eyes suddenly widened as she turned to Qiu Tu, "One of the transport companies that was robbed?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    He recalled the contents written in the case file.


    Because of the listening devices installed by Yin Caimei, six transport companies in Xinjie City had been suffering from the predations of the United Front anti-government armed forces over the past year.


    Among them, Shun Yun Trading suffered the heaviest losses.


    They had not only lost a large amount of grain and life necessities purchased from other cities but also a significant quantity of herbs and potions.


    "There''s something wrong here." Qiu Tu tapped on the names of Shun Yun Trading and the Qin brothers, Qin Heng and Qin Shu.


    Qin Shuman nodded, then stretched out her hand towards Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu discreetly reached into his pocket and handed her the communicator specially made by the Security Department.


    Qin Shuman took the customized communicator, pressed a few numbers, and then dialed out.


    The call connected after a moment, and Qin Shuman spoke expressionlessly, "This is Rain Butterfly, help me look into the relationship between the Qin Family and Shun Yun Trading''s Qian Dafu."


    "Also, review Old Fourth Qin again to see if he knows any secrets."


    After the person on the other end responded, Qin Shuman hung up the phone.


    As Qiu Tu continued to rummage through other materials, he said, "I feel like there''s really something wrong with the Qin Family."


    What he meant by "something wrong" obviously wasn''t referring to the Qin Family''s previously vague connections with the anti-government armed forces.


    After all, in the Planning Area, especially the newly designated Planning Area, most forces had more or less connections with the anti-government armed forces¡ªit was only before the influence of the Sanctuary had expanded to this area that these forces had been hedging their bets.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s "something wrong" clearly indicated a deeper cooperation between the two forces.


    As the head of the Investigation Department of the Security Department and an old hand at the job, Qin Shuman seriously nodded in agreement with Qiu Tu''s view, "Once is a coincidence, twice is a coincidence, but to call it coincidence three or four times is implausible."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Having reached a consensus, they both immersed themselves in their own world as they continued to go through the materials.


    For a while, no one spoke in the car, and it gradually quieted down.


    Blue moonlight streamed through the car window and draped both of them in a soft and mysterious veil.


    Time passed, perhaps only 10 minutes, or it could have been a full half-hour.


    "Ring, ring, ring!"


    The crisp ring of the communicator suddenly pierced the silence within the car.


    Qin Shuman snapped back to reality and answered the phone with a succinct, "Speak."


    The person reporting on the other end spoke so softly and quickly that Qiu Tu could barely make out what was being said.


    He just saw Qin Shuman''s expression change, going from calm to surprised, and then from surprised to excited!


    After a moment, Qin Shuman hung up the phone and turned to look at Qiu Tu with barely concealed jubilation, "Qiu Tu! We might have stumbled upon a major case!"


    Qiu Tu looked at her somewhat blankly.


    Qin Shuman leaned in close to Qiu Tu and lowered her voice, "Let me tell you, it''s shocking what you find when you look¡ªShun Yun Trading was actually founded by Old Master Qin."


    "He already had a certain status in Xinjie City, and he had also carved out his own territory in the underworld."


    "In order to train his own fighters and to expand his financial resources, he supported one of his confidants, directing him to take nearly half of the gang''s core to establish Shun Yun Trading, mainly dealing with the transportation of materials."


    "And that confidant was the father of Qian Dafu¡­"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s surprised look, Qin Shuman continued, "Later on, a few years ago, both Old Master Qin and the father of Qian Dafu died in accidents. Moreover, as the Qin Family wanted to go legitimate, the two companies ostensibly went their separate ways on the surface and no longer had any dealings."


    "But now it seems... the truth might be quite different."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, thoughtfully musing for a brief moment before conjecturing, "So, Shun Yun Trading is very likely the real dark hand of the Qin Family."


    "Some of the truly illegal industries of the Qin Family, like cooperation with the United Front, were in fact separated out long before Old Master Qin''s death."


    "And the black and grey industries that Fourth Master Qin got from the division of the family assets were actually those with very low risk already."


    Qin Shuman''s face lit up with excitement, "Exactly!"


    "So, we''ve been investigating Old Fourth Qin for so many days without much progress, and in the end, it''s because we were looking in the wrong direction!"


    "If we investigate Shun Yun Trading, we might be able to dig out the Qin Family!"


    "And you can perfectly close your case too!"


    Qiu Tu was not swayed by Qin Shuman''s excitement; he patted her hand and analyzed calmly, "So, you suspect that the Qin Family might be the mastermind behind the Yin Caimei case?"


    Seeing Qin Shuman nod, Qiu Tu continued, "You''re guessing... that the Qin family sensed danger due to our earlier investigation and the arrest of Yin Caimei was coincidental. So, worried about being exposed and getting themselves burned, they decided to make a clean break and silence her?"


    "And simultaneously frame Vice President Tian in the process?"


    Qin Shuman nodded in agreement and added, "Right. So, I suspect that Vice President Tian is truly being wronged." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The robbery of the transportation company might well be a play they''ve staged themselves."


    "Shun Da Trading and other transportation companies were likely already dealing in illegal business with the United Front. Then, by chance, Yin Caimei got recruited by Vice President Tian into the chamber of commerce, which provided these transportation companies with the perfect opportunity to set a trap."


    Though it was just a speculation at this point, Qin Shuman had a hunch: this could very well be the truth!


    With this in mind, Qin Shuman turned to Qiu Tu and asked, "What do you think?"


    Since Qin Shuman began her analysis, Qiu Tu had been listening intently. Now, hesitating slightly upon her inquiry, he finally nodded, "I do think it''s a possibility."


    Seeing Qiu Tu agree with her theory, Qin Shuman couldn''t sit still any longer. She said to Qiu Tu, "Please help me take Xiaowan home!"


    "I need to go ahead and thoroughly investigate this case."


    After speaking, perhaps worried that Qiu Tu might misunderstand, she took another look at him, "Don''t worry, I won''t steal your credit. Nor will I interfere with your case investigation."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu waved it off with a smile, "It''s fine. I don''t mind that."


    After looking at Qiu Tu a second time and making sure he truly didn''t mind, Qin Shuman kissed him happily, then left Su Xiaowan''s body and decoupled her attachment.


    ¡ª¡ªClearly, the pressure Director Dai had been putting on her had nearly left her unable to catch her breath.


    An unexpected case falling into her lap now was a complete relief from her urgent predicament!


    If she could solve this case or do a good job with the preliminary intelligence work, not only would her past mistakes be overlooked, but she might even get a promotion and a raise!


    So... in her excitement, she had even forgotten that she wasn''t in her own body but in Su Xiaowan''s...


    Suddenly kissed by "Su Xiaowan," Qiu Tu felt strangely awkward...


    He looked at Su Xiaowan slumping in the passenger seat, shook his head slightly, then leaned over... and fastened her seatbelt.


    Perhaps because of that kiss, the friction between their bodies made Qiu Tu feel like his blood was rushing faster.


    After securing the seat belt, Qiu Tu reorganized the files, then followed the address left by Qin Shuman to take Su Xiaowan home.


    The vehicle traveled down the dimly lit street as Qiu Tu quietly pondered over the information he had discovered just now.


    In truth, Qiu Tu wasn''t afraid of Qin Shuman stealing his credit, nor was he concerned about her affecting his investigation.


    That''s because his responsibility was solely the case of Yin Caimei''s death; the robbery of the transportation company by the United Front had nothing to do with him.


    In his few days at the Political Department, Qiu Tu quickly learned a key to survival: to stick to one''s post and abide by its responsibilities.


    Investigating on your own another team''s case, even solving it, wouldn''t bring much credit but could easily attract resentment.


    Beyond that, Qiu Tu also noticed several details that Qin Shuman had missed.


    Perhaps due to different perspectives, while Qin Shuman was excited about uncovering a major case, Qiu Tu felt a chill down his spine.


    Was this really all about framing and setting someone up?


    The Qin family and the bosses of those transportation companies, even if they weren''t afraid of Vice President Tian, wouldn''t want to offend a vice president of a chamber of commerce with the backing of a sanctuary so casually, right?


    So, they designed a trap for him simply because Yin Caimei was chosen by Vice President Tian?


    Qiu Tu thought that was indeed too cruel and insane.


    Moreover, if the Qin family was really framing Vice President Tian, then what was Jia Shu''s unusual behavior about?


    Could it be that Jia Shu didn''t want to assist Vice President Tian, but instead wanted to accommodate the Qin family?


    Then why did he hint to Qiu Tu that this matter needed to be settled to Vice President Tian''s satisfaction?


    One question after another led Qiu Tu to form a bolder hypothesis than Qin Shuman''s.


    It was... that all of this was indeed a self-scripted, self-directed scam.


    But... from Yin Caimei to those transportation companies, to Vice President Tian, to the Qin family, they were all actors in this scam.


    Even Jia Shu might have glimpsed some truth but chose to temporarily let it slide for the interests of the Investigation Bureau!


    They wove web upon web, layer upon layer of lies, merely to create more buffers, to hide even deeper...


    Though he might have guessed the real gist of the case, Qiu Tu was faced with a tremendously difficult question.


    That was... what path he should take...


    Carrying deep doubts, Qiu Tu took Su Xiaowan back home.


    Su Xiaowan lived on New Fang Street, which was the same place where Qiu Tu had been stopped that morning.


    This indicated that her family conditions were fairly good. Before Xinjie City was established, her parents likely had jobs at some reputable company or institution and held some status in society.


    Their children, having received decent education and maintained good character, without any dark background, were among the fastest to climb the social ladder in the year Xinjie City was founded ¡ª the three major power institutions favored such young people with a clean background and a decent education. Song Qing was also one of them.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car in front of Su Xiaowan''s building, woke her up and watched her silhouette ascend the beautifully decorated multi-story western-style building, floor by floor, until all the lights went out. Then, extinguishing his cigarette, he turned and drove home.


    Arriving at Old Alley Street, Qiu Tu parked the car and walked towards his own home in the shabby tube building.


    Reaching the building, the lights were still on at home.


    Qiu Tu climbed the stairs and opened the door, surprised to find... Shen Lingshuang was not asleep on the sofa tonight; instead, there were "rustling" sounds coming from the room.


    Curiously, Qiu Tu walked over and then saw... Shen Lingshuang, showing her fair back, trying on lingerie.


    Only... it wasn''t just her trying on lingerie; she was actually stuffing things inside it....


    -----

 Chapter 107 - 93 Congratulations, Youre a Girl Now (7k)

    Seeing the shocking scene before him, Qiu Tu was dumbfounded.


    He gaped at Shen Lingshuang''s actions, then asked, "I say... what are you doing?"


    Perhaps because she was too focused on her mischief, Shen Lingshuang hadn''t heard someone entering the house. Therefore, when Qiu Tu spoke up, she got startled right away.


    She covered her chest, then turned around with a flushed face and asked Qiu Tu in surprise, "When did you get back?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Is that the point?


    While internally complaining, Qiu Tu replied, "Just got back. But... saw everything."


    Shen Lingshuang''s face turned as red as an apple. She shot an annoyed glance at Qiu Tu and, in a fit of resignation, turned back around and continued stuffing tissues into her bra.


    Perhaps because she was acting out of spite, her movements were so exaggerated that Qiu Tu could even catch a glimpse of the petite pair within.


    Qiu Tu stroked his chin, quietly appreciating the view while curiously asking, "What on earth are you doing?"


    Shen Lingshuang retorted stubbornly, "Wearing a bra, okay? What, do you go out without wearing a bra?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly said, "First, I indeed don''t wear that kind of bra. Second... even if others wear a bra, they wouldn''t stuff so much tissue in it, would they?"


    "You... you know nothing. I''m doing this to protect my chest!" With her face red enough to steam from the top of her head, Shen Lingshuang still pretended to be indifferent and pulled down her T-shirt!


    Not to mention... after stuffing all that in, Shen Lingshuang''s front did look considerably more pronounced.


    Feeling Qiu Tu''s strange gaze, Shen Lingshuang stood up, clenched her fist, and with a flushed face, went to the bathroom.


    As she passed by Qiu Tu, she even purposefully bumped her padded chest against him, leaving Qiu Tu caught between laughter and tears.


    Though she was acting tough in front of Qiu Tu.


    Once she escaped into the bathroom, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t hold it in any longer. She covered her face with her hands, her expression filled with despair!


    She had been eating and sleeping with Qiu Tu these last couple of days, but he had made no moves on her whatsoever.


    This made her doubt her own charm!


    So, taking advantage of a trip to Xiafang Street for shopping, she secretly bought a few sexy bras, planning to seduce Qiu Tu.


    Even... worrying that her undeveloped body wouldn''t capture Qiu Tu''s interest, after much thought, she decided to pad her bra tonight as a deception!


    But... before the scam could start, she got caught.


    "Wuwuwu..." The more Shen Lingshuang thought about it, the more aggrieved she felt, and she couldn''t help crying with her mouth covered.


    ¡ªShe covered her mouth because she didn''t want Qiu Tu outside the bathroom to hear, which would be even more embarrassing.


    Meanwhile, outside the bathroom, Qiu Tu didn''t find this incident embarrassing at all; in fact, he found it highly amusing.


    He blinked his eyes, grinned, and walked to the bathroom door, knocking gently, "Actually... there''s no need for padding. I like you just the way you are."


    Inside the bathroom, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes were slightly teary, and she pouted her lips.


    Qiu Tu added another sentence, "After all, being small is cute too."


    Behind the door, Shen Lingshuang was close to exploding with anger.


    She opened the bathroom door, glared at Qiu Tu, and said, "You are the one who''s cute and tiny! Your entire family is cute and tiny!"


    Having said that, she marched back to the bedroom on her short legs, still fuming, jumped onto the bed, and covered her head with the blanket, ignoring Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang in her fuming state, the upward curve of Qiu Tu''s lips was almost uncontrollable.


    After a busy day of public affairs, teasing the adorable Shen Lingshuang felt quite fun.


    He took off his uniform jacket, went to the bathroom to freshen up, then returned to bed and lay down beside Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang was still under the covers, ignoring him.


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind; he simply hugged her and started caressing her through the blanket.


    Shen Lingshuang initially held back, but after a minute, she couldn''t stand it any longer. She threw off the blankets, her face flushed with embarrassment as she glared at Qiu Tu, "What are you doing?!"


    Qiu Tu looked at her sincerely and said, "I just want to prove to you... that I really do like you...."


    "Your figure."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words laced with suggestive undertones, Shen Lingshuang''s face grew even redder, seemingly on the verge of bleeding.


    She hit Qiu Tu a few times with the blanket, frustratedly saying, "No need for proof! Stop moving around!"


    Qiu Tu still smiled as he looked at her.


    Shen Lingshuang''s head felt like it was steaming with heat from his gaze.


    Annoyed, she covered herself with the blanket again, throwing in the towel, so to speak.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu moved in closer once again.


    Before long, he tossed the padded bra aside and then said softly, "Don''t stuff these things in anymore; it''s not good for your health."


    "If you think they''re too small, I can help you out. I have a family heirloom breast enlargement technique."


    Under the covers, Shen Lingshuang mumbled, "I''ll kill you in your sleep."


    But the words sounded more like coquettish pouting than threats...


    So, Qiu Tu''s smile grew even more brilliant.


    [108 Ways to Enhance Affection]#81: Take action when it''s time. Physical contact is the best way to increase mutual affection.


    PS: If you miss the opportunity, she won''t consider you a gentleman; rather, she might doubt her own charm and your feelings for her....


    [9 Days (Time until Yin Caimei''s case is closed)]


    ...


    The next morning.


    As soon as Qiu Tu opened his eyes, he saw Shen Lingshuang''s cute face close to his.


    She said seriously, "Congratulations, the surgery was successful, and you''re now a girl.


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly pulled her into his arms, then lazily said, "Sorry, the surgery failed. I can still feel it. Don''t believe me? Have a feel."


    Shen Lingshuang''s attempt at joking backfired, leaving her with a blushing face. She snuggled up to Qiu Tu''s chest like a tiny kitten.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s strong heartbeat, for some reason, she felt incredibly secure....


    After enjoying a moment of tranquility in the morning, Qiu Tu took the initiative to go downstairs and buy breakfast.


    While having breakfast, Qiu Tu also took the opportunity to check the gains from last night''s "Loyalty Game."


    Last night, although he had played around with Shen Lingshuang for a while, his good habits still made him set up the "Loyalty Game" before going to bed.


    Furthermore, compared to the previous two nights, this time, Qiu Tu even switched the participants of the two games:


    He sent Eagle to play the "Combat Game" with Wang Xi, while he had Ah-Tai play the "Salvage Game."


    He planned to test whether the game process and rewards would differ with different participants.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu first opened the "Combat Game."


    As his mind clicked, the settlement screen for the "Combat Game" appeared in front of him.


    Compared to Ah-Tai''s battles on the previous days, the battle screen between Eagle and Wang Xi was noticeably more brutal: Eagle''s pixelated figure wielded a bicycle chain, covered in wounds, dripping with blood.


    Meanwhile, Wang Xi''s pixelated figure this time had switched to a kitchen knife, and compared to the blood-soaked Eagle, Wang Xi was in a significantly better state, with hardly any wounds on his body.


    This discovery made Qiu Tu''s heart skip a beat: Could last night''s game have ended in failure?


    He hurriedly checked the game prompt.


    Fortunately... In the end, the victory in the battle was still won by Eagle: he had a bicycle chain wrapped around Wang Xi''s neck, squeezing until Wang Xi''s face turned nearly blue.


    Looking at Eagle''s hard-won victory, Qiu Tu guessed that the fighting power in the Combat Game might well be linked to real strength.


    Since his subordinates were all ordinary people for now, what they were comparing was their "hand-to-hand combat ability."


    But if in the future his subordinates included Cataclysmics, it''s likely that their Cataclysmic ability would become the decisive factor in confrontations!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu clicked on the reward for Eagle''s victory with his thoughts.


    With his click, several prompts suddenly popped up in front of him:


    [Victory in the Loyalty Game, reward obtained.]


    [Wang Xi Loyalty +2]


    [Wang Xi Memory Fragment (Small) +1]


    ''Eh? Another memory fragment?''


    Last time, Qiu Tu had also obtained a piece of Wang Xi''s memory fragment, and although it was only ''tiny,'' he had gotten a lot of useful information; now he had obtained a ''small'' fragment, Qiu Tu suddenly grew curious about what interesting scenes he might see.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tried clicking on this small memory fragment with his thoughts.


    The next second, the scene shifted, and Qiu Tu found himself in a new room.


    This room was clearly much more luxurious than the last one.


    Not only was there a wool carpet on the floor, a leather sofa set, but there were even paintings hanging on the walls.


    And the man he had seen last time, dressed in a black suit, with bright red hair, wearing a clown mask, was sitting on the leather sofa, talking to "Qiu Tu"!


    "What have I told you! There''s no way it would be discovered!"


    "How could those idiotic detectives ever catch us!"


    "So, you being frightened every day is completely pointless worrying!"


    After saying that, the masked man tossed "Qiu Tu" a booklet, "We''ve got the herbs now. Next is potion crafting!"


    "These are the methods for crafting several potions!"


    "You only have one month, you must craft these potions!"


    "Qiu Tu" took the booklet and started to examine its contents.


    Meanwhile, the man continued to raise his arms, mumbling somewhat sickly, "With these potions!"


    "I will be able to make a move in Xinjie City!"


    "Bring ''pleasure'' to ''God''!"


    "Then ''God'' will definitely bestow me with more power!"


    As he spoke, the masked man seemed to burst with a mysterious force, which violently swept across "Qiu Tu''s" body.


    "Qiu Tu" clearly felt "his" body trembling and shrinking back a little.


    "He" felt "his" inner self was both excited and afraid...


    The memory image froze on the masked man turning to look at Qiu Tu, his crimson eyes matched with his sick behavior, utterly unnerving...


    ...


    "Qiu Tu? Qiu Tu?!"


    Hearing the call from far to near, Qiu Tu came back to his senses.


    "Whew!" He took a deep breath and looked at Shen Lingshuang who had gotten close to him, with a worried look on her face.


    He couldn''t help but ask, "What''s the matter?"


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with some worry and said, "You suddenly stopped moving while eating breakfast. And your body was stiff, eyes lifeless."


    After saying that, she showed a worried face, "You''re not sick, are you?"


    "Or is it a sequela from the Cataclysm Awakening?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also slowly emerged from the memory he had just experienced and smiled as he touched Shen Lingshuang''s head, "It''s nothing, I was just a bit distracted."


    Shen Lingshuang blushed and swatted away his hand that was making teasing gestures, "Go away! Pervert!"


    She realized that ever since she changed her underwear and was seen by Qiu Tu last night, Qiu Tu had become more and more bold, simply annoying!


    While playing with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu pondered over the information he had acquired from the memory fragment just now.


    For one, he could confirm that the memory presented by this memory fragment likely occurred within the past month.


    Because the memory clearly was from after Wang Xi and the masked man had robbed the pharmacy.


    Secondly, what Qiu Tu didn''t expect was that the masked man and Wang Xi didn''t rob the pharmacy for money, but for alchemy?


    But... what are those potions for?


    Why could they bring ''pleasure'' to ''God''? And why was the masked man so excited about it?


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell upon Shen Lingshuang...

 Chapter 108 - 94: Acquiring a New Cataclysmic Treasure! (7k)

    Suddenly feeling Qiu Tu''s gaze on her, Shen Lingshuang was initially stunned, then reflexively covered her chest with a wary expression and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Having already indulged his hand addiction a moment ago, Qiu Tu now had no other thoughts in mind and asked, "Right. If I gave you a potion formula or ingredients, could you roughly judge the effects of the potion?"


    Upon hearing this, Shen Lingshuang pondered for a bit and didn''t completely reject the idea, "I... can try."


    After receiving a positive response from Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu closed his eyes and carefully recalled the formulas of several potions from the first page of the booklet in his memory.


    A moment later, he opened his eyes and began listing the material names, "Defying Fate Scales, Dried Seven, Glabrous Greenbrier, Great Thistle...."


    As Qiu Tu named each ingredient and material, Shen Lingshuang''s brow furrowed tighter and tighter.


    It was not until Qiu Tu finished listing the ingredient names that she quietly said, "This seems like... some kind of Cataclysmic Potion."


    "And it''s one that can only be made using a certain Cataclysm Path."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu looked puzzled and asked, "What do you mean by a potion that can only be made using a certain Cataclysm Path?"


    When it came to knowledge about potions, Shen Lingshuang clearly became more haughty.


    She tilted her head up slightly and confidently explained, "Cataclysmic Potions are different from ordinary potions. Although they also follow the ''Star, Moon, King, and Minister'' ratio,"


    "the ''Moon Medicine'' doesn''t necessarily have to be Cataclysmic Material; it can also be a Path power."


    "That is to say, you can replace one medicinal ingredient with the Cataclysmic Power of a ''Cataclysmic'' and concoct a potion that contains the power related to the Path of that Cataclysmic."


    Then, Shen Lingshuang further explained the special Cataclysmic Potion to Qiu Tu in detail.


    To put it in layman''s terms:


    Formulating a Cataclysmic Potion normally requires four types of medicinal ingredients and materials according to the ''Star, Moon, King, and Minister.'' ''Star Medicine'' and ''Moon Medicine'' are Cataclysmic Materials containing Catastrophe Power.


    While ''King Medicine'' and ''Assistant Medicine'' are ordinary medicinal ingredients, serving to harmonize and add effects.


    Later, some pharmacists found Cataclysmic Materials too difficult to procure, so they only added ''Star Medicine'', and directly replaced the ''Moon Medicine'' with the power of a Cataclysmic.


    This created a special Cataclysmic Potion unique to a certain Path.


    After understanding the formulation method for this special type of Cataclysmic Potion, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "Then can you tell which Path''s Cataclysmic Potion is concocted from this formula?"


    Shen Lingshuang shook her head slightly and slowly said, "It''s hard to say... but most likely, it''s a potion of the ''Mystery'' or ''Immortality'' Path."


    "After all, the entire formula gives off a dark, twisted feeling."


    ''Mystery??'' Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a jolt, and couldn''t help but recall the Cataclysmic Potion ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he had obtained yesterday.


    He remembered the description on that potion bottle being: A Cataclysmic Potion made from Cataclysm Materials including mandrake flower, Succubus of Water by a Cataclysmic from the "Mystery" Path.


    He had noticed this description at the time, but didn''t understand what it meant. Now it seemed... That potion might also be a special Cataclysmic Potion?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly had a startling suspicion: Could it be that the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he received had actually come from that man in the suit with the mask?


    After all... the ''Salvage Game'' introduction stated that all Cataclysmic Props were salvaged from one''s own region.


    That is to say, only if Xinjie City housed this Cataclysmic Potion would he have been likely to obtain it.


    And although Xinjie City is not small, there are not many Cataclysmics, plus the masked man was concocting potions related to the "Mystery" Path, so his speculation might very well be true!


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was analyzing, Shen Lingshuang also finished carefully studying the entire formula, and said with some uncertainty, "Although I''ve never seen this potion..."


    "Based on the analysis of the ingredients, it is likely a Cataclysmic Potion related to disguising, concealing, and transforming."


    "For example, ''Impersonator Potion,'' ''Albino Phantom Potion,'' ''Reverse Transformation Potion'' and alike..."


    ''Disguise, transformation?''


    ''Mandragora Love Drug...?''


    ''"God"?''


    After combining these pieces of information, inexplicably, Qiu Tu felt that somewhat adult and sinister scenes and images seemed to emerge.


    ''Could it be that something major is going to happen in Xinjie City?''


    Upon pondering quietly for a while, Qiu Tu temporarily suppressed these thoughts and finished breakfast with Shen Lingshuang.


    After eating, Qiu Tu reminded Shen Lingshuang not to wander off in the next few days, then left for work...


    Today was the last workday of the week. Tomorrow was the weekend, the day Qiu Tu and Chief Huang had arranged to go to ''Emerald Fort'' to attend the horse racing meeting. There were only eight days left until the deadline for the Yin Caimei case.


    Stepping out onto Old Alley Street and getting into his car, Qiu Tu did not start driving immediately but continued to check the rewards for last night''s second ''Loyalty Game.''


    Turning off "Fighting Game," Qiu Tu opened "Salvage Game."


    With his click, a pixelated figure of Ah-Tai popped up before Qiu Tu.


    Compared to Eagle, who looked nearly exhausted from a night of salvaging, the pixelated figure of Ah-Tai appeared to be in much better condition, simply sitting on the ground and yawning.


    Qiu Tu observed the screen closely and soon spotted a small jade seal in the image.


    Qiu Tu mentally clicked on the jade seal, and the next second, a prompt popped up before him,


    [Acquired Cataclysmic Treasure: Seal of Ownership]


    ''Seal of Ownership?''


    ''What is that?''


    Qiu Tu tried to check the description of this Cataclysmic treasure.


    ''Cataclysmic Treasure: Seal of Ownership''


    ''Treasure Introduction: A Cataclysmic treasure made from an unknown material. As long as you stamp the seal on an item or a creature, you will have ownership of it for 72 hours.''


    ''Within 72 hours, if you want to retrieve IT, IT will cross space and appear before you.''


    ''Note: Acquiring items or creatures will consume a certain "cost." The amount of the "cost" is determined by various factors such as the volume, mass, rank of the item or creature, and the distance between it and the user.''


    Having read the introduction to this Cataclysmic treasure, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up slightly.


    As expected... there is no such thing as a weak Cataclysmic treasure.


    With such a magical treasure, Qiu Tu, after a little thought, came up with many ways to use it.


    Whether it was for transporting items, stealing goods, or launching surprise attacks on hostile organizations, or sneaking multiple people into certain secret places, it would be highly effective!


    The only problem was that he was unclear about the extent of the "cost" of using it.


    If it was small, Qiu Tu felt it was bearable; but if it was too much, then he would have to reduce the frequency of use...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu packed away the Cataclysmic treasure and drove toward the Investigation Bureau...


    [8 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    ....


    Upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu, holding the materials he had obtained from Tian Xiaotian the night before, took the elevator to the 9th floor.


    Once he reached the office of the 9th-floor investigation team, all of his subordinates were there.


    Even Cao Dabiao and the seven or eight investigators that Qiu Tu had sent out had returned.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, everyone greeted him in succession.


    Cao Dabiao, the most astute among them, saw that Qiu Tu was holding something and quickly stepped forward with a sly smile, "Chief, let me help you with that."


    Qiu Tu did not refuse his kindness and casually handed Tian Xiaotian''s backpack to him, then inquired, "Why have you come back? Any progress on the case I gave you to investigate?"


    Cao Dabiao took over the backpack, smiled humbly, and said, "Chief, it''s all thanks to your good fortune. We''ve been finding people and connections these past two days, and finally found the brother-in-law of the driver for Vice President Tian..."


    "Then, after arranging a few meetings and beating around the bush, we finally brought the driver out yesterday."


    "Afterward, we got him pretty drunk and managed to extract Vice President Tian''s itinerary for the next few days from him!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu looked at him in surprise and then praised, "Not bad, Big Biao. You really have some skills."


    "In such a short time, you''ve got chummy with Vice President Tian''s driver and obtained internal information."


    At this, Qiu Tu gave Cao Dabiao a heavy pat on the shoulder, "I really didn''t misjudge you!"


    "You''ve done a great job!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, a rare expression of self-satisfaction appeared on Cao Dabiao''s face.


    Clearly, he too thought that completing Qiu Tu''s task in such a short time was quite an achievement.


    As they spoke, the two reached Qiu Tu''s desk. Cao Dabiao helped Qiu Tu place the backpack on the desk and, out of curiosity, casually asked, "Chief, what''s in this bag? It''s quite heavy."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Nothing much, just the record of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itinerary and gift-giving list for this year."


    Cao Dabiao: ???


    Cao Dabiao almost thought he had misheard.


    He was stunned for a second, then asked, "What? The records of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itinerary and gift-giving list for a whole year?" sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu simply nodded, then he unzipped the backpack, took out the materials, and handed them to Cao Dabiao.


    "Flip through it backwards and find Vice President Tian''s itinerary for the past few days, see if it matches the account of the driver you know."


    "If it all matches up, that means the driver didn''t deceive you, and that line must be well maintained."


    "We might very likely get more hidden information from him!"


    Cao Dabiao uttered a couple of "ohs," but he hadn''t really taken it in: because at that moment, he had already been dumbfounded by the "heavy bomb" dropped by Qiu Tu.


    Now, he had only one thought in his mind: What kind of a god was his chief?!


    It took him and seven or eight people working painstakingly for two days just to get a handle on one of Vice President Tian''s drivers, securing a three-day itinerary.


    But his chief... his chief had just managed to bring over the entire year''s itinerary of Vice President Tian?


    Compared to him, their efforts seemed utterly useless!


    Thinking this, he glanced over at the other investigators in the office.


    As expected, while those who had stayed in the office these past two days seemed unaffected, the seven or eight investigators who had gone out with him to look for leads were all stunned.


    Clearly... from the moment Qiu Tu entered, they had been paying attention to the conversation between the two, and now they were as shocked as Cao Dabiao...


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +5]


    [Ding Xiaoqi Loyalty +3]


    [Li Liang Loyalty +3]


    [....]


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, while pretending to sort out the materials, had the corners of his mouth slightly curled up in a smile at the string of Loyalty alerts appearing before his eyes.


    It was necessary to praise subordinates appropriately, but also to give them a shock from time to time.


    Everybody has the ''admiration for the strong'' mentality, so you have to make them realize the gap between you and them, only then will they willingly follow you...


    Just as Qiu Tu was habitually boosting loyalty, the door to the temporary office was suddenly pushed open from the outside.


    An investigator walked in, saluted Qiu Tu, and then said politely, "Chief Qiu, the minister has asked to see you."


    "He says he wants to discuss a case with you."


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned. Discuss a case with him? What case? The case of Yin Caimei''s death?


    And just as Qiu Tu was pondering, the long-inactive [Crisis Countdown] began to change slowly...


    -----

 Chapter 109 - 95: Have Yan Chen and Jia Shu Fallen Out? (7k)

    Seeing the change in the countdown hourglass, Qiu Tu''s mind was suddenly filled with several question marks.


    He couldn''t understand why just being summoned by Jia Shu had triggered his "Crisis Intuition."


    Could it be... Jia Shu was plotting something against him in the office?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look at the series of "Crisis Warnings" that had popped up in front of him, trying to see what kind of crisis he was actually facing.


    But with just one glance, Qiu Tu was baffled.


    Because the content of the crisis warning was completely different from what he had imagined and even surprised him.


    Thinking this, he quickly skimmed through all the "Crisis Warnings," his eyes revealing a hint of deep thought.


    And as he finished reading the warnings, a 20-minute countdown hourglass also popped up, landing in the upper left corner of his vision.


    [19:56]


    At this time, the investigator standing at the door, seeing that Qiu Tu had not responded to him, couldn''t help but urge, "Chief Qiu, the Director is still waiting for you."


    Hearing his words, Qiu Tu came back to his senses, then he looked at the investigator deeply before saying with a smile, "Alright, I''ll be there soon."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu handed the documents he was holding to Cao Dabiao, called over several investigators, and then arranged, "Go get a photocopier and several boxes of paper, and make three copies of all these documents."


    "Then one set should be categorized by location, one set by personnel, and another set in chronological order."


    "When I come back, we''ll analyze these documents together."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu glanced at Cao Dabiao and instructed, "Big Biao, you be in charge of this." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he looked at Liu Fuping and Chen Feng, "Sister Liu, Chen Feng, you two assist."


    "Yes!" The three of them took their orders.


    Qiu Tu''s work arrangement was a normal procedure, so the investigator didn''t say anything, just waiting patiently at the door.


    Soon, the work arrangement was done, and Qiu Tu also stepped toward the door, leaving the temporary office together with the investigator.


    [18:27]


    Led by the investigator, the two quickly arrived at the door of Jia Shu''s office.


    Arriving at the office door, Qiu Tu did not enter immediately but instead straightened his clothes while asking the investigator beside him, "I don''t seem to have seen you in the Political Department before? Are you new here?"


    The investigator had a somewhat aloof personality and merely hummed in response.


    Qiu Tu asked, "What is your name?"


    The investigator said, "Ji Chen."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then knocked on the door.


    Jia Shu''s voice came from inside the office, "Come in."


    Hearing that voice, Qiu Tu, with a full smile on his face, pushed open the door and stepped inside.


    [18:01]


    As he walked into Jia Shu''s office, the light suddenly dimmed, and Qiu Tu''s eyes widened slightly as his vision seemed a bit unclear.


    Only after his eyes adjusted to the office lighting did he notice someone sitting in the large boss chair, their back to him.


    That towering, solid, black leather chair resembled a tall tombstone standing in the middle of the office.


    And Jia Shu was standing respectfully beside that "tombstone."


    In the whole of Xinjie City, there was only one person who could sit in Jia Shu''s place and command such respectful attitudes from Jia Shu...


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu speculated, the chair slowly turned, and one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, Investigation Bureau Chief Yan Chen, appeared before Qiu Tu...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly pretended to be surprised and saluted, "Hello, Bureau Chief!"


    After saluting, as if he had just remembered that this was Jia Shu''s office, he quickly saluted Jia Shu, standing aside, "Director!"


    After exchanging greetings, Yan Chen said nothing but just looked at Qiu Tu silently, his gaze as deep as a bottomless spring¡­


    While Yan Chen was looking at Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu was also quietly scrutinizing Yan Chen.


    After all, this was not Yan Chen''s own study or office: the curtains were not very opaque, and Jia Shu''s desk lamp was of good quality, so... this was the first time Qiu Tu got a clear look at Yan Chen''s face.


    How to describe it... he was rather unremarkable in appearance and seemed somewhat aged and decayed.


    Qiu Tu remembered that the official introduction stated Yan Chen was 51 years old, but... looking at him, Qiu Tu would put him past 65, he even seemed to have an old man''s flavor.


    Qiu Tu recalled Qin Shuman''s previous hypothesis about Yan Chen''s Cataclysm Path: Life, Immortality.


    Frankly, Qiu Tu couldn''t see any signs of "Immortality" in Yan Chen.


    If it weren''t for Qin Shuman''s information usually being reliable, Qiu Tu might even think Yan Chen was nearly devoid of "life."


    [17:36]


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was analyzing Yan Chen''s appearance and Cataclysm Path, Yan Chen slowly spoke.


    His voice was low and hoarse, like nails scratching on a chalkboard, "Qiu Tu, I heard you took the Yin Caimei case?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu wore a smile, looking straight ahead, as if the presence of Qiu Tu had nothing to do with him and this case wasn''t assigned by him at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded without denying, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    [17:30]


    Yan Chen "hmmed" and then slowly said, "How is your investigation going lately?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu again.


    Jia Shu still had no reaction.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Thanks to the Bureau Chief''s good luck, our investigative team has been working overtime the past few days, and we''re almost close to cracking the case."


    Upon Qiu Tu''s words, the whole office fell quiet for a moment. Yan Chen gave Jia Shu an expressionless glance, then asked in a grave tone, "Oh? That soon to crack the case? Tell me about it."


    [17:13]


    ```


    Hearing Yan Chen''s question and looking at the eerie scene before him, Qiu Tu''s thoughts couldn''t help but drift a little...


    Actually... Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised about what happened in Jia Shu''s office with Yan Chen.


    Even... when Yan Chen asked him these questions, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised either.


    Because, after "Crisis Intuition" was triggered, the "Crisis Warning" had already made him anticipate everything that was happening now...


    "Crisis Intuition activated! Generating crisis report!"


    "Your immediate superior, the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, Yan Chen, is experiencing a conflict with your superior, Head of the Political Department Jia Shu!"


    "The cause is that Jia Shu actually handed over ''the Yin Caimei case'' to you without informing him!"


    "Feeling his authority was challenged, he''s not only dissatisfied with Jia Shu but also developed a profound distrust towards you!"


    "Now, under the pretense of Jia Shu''s directive, he has invited you to Jia Shu''s office to report on the case!"


    "You have 20 minutes to decide which case investigation results and so-called ''truth'' you will report. This will determine your image and position in the eyes of Yan Chen and Jia Shu!"


    "Please choose carefully, as it will affect your situation going forward!"


    Indeed, just when an investigator came on behalf of Jia Shu to get Qiu Tu, these prompts popped up before him.


    At that moment, it nearly caused Qiu Tu''s brain to crash.


    ''What''s going on? Wasn''t this case assigned to me by Yan Chen? Or was it actually given to me by Jia Shu without Yan Chen''s knowledge?''


    ''No? Is this guy sick or what?''


    ''Why dump such a difficult case on me for no reason!?''


    ''And moreover... because of this case, a rift formed between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, and as a result... Yan Chen only has a bit of dissatisfaction with Jia Shu but has developed a tremendous distrust toward me?''


    ''Is Yan Chen also out of his mind?!''


    ''What, am I the one getting hurt in every way here?''


    ''In the end, am I just a pawn in your play?''


    That''s why Qiu Tu stood there stunned at the time, feeling utterly overwhelmed.


    Fortunately, the investigator called him again, snapping Qiu Tu back to reality and reminding him that what he needed to do now was not to complain but to quickly analyze the hints given by "Crisis Intuition."


    You should know that "Crisis Intuition" is only triggered when Qiu Tu''s life is threatened.


    So, this proved that if Qiu Tu couldn''t get through this crisis, it''s highly likely that he could be in mortal danger.


    And what made Qiu Tu feel even more screwed was that this "Crisis Warning" didn''t specify where the danger was coming from.


    He only knew that a discord had arisen between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, and then he was being called to the office.


    But... who will be detrimental to him in the future?


    Is it because he concealed the investigative facts, making Yan Chen unsatisfied, hence planning to eliminate him?


    Or did he reveal the truth of the investigation, unsettling Jia Shu, who''s now planning to secretly get rid of him?


    So many possibilities left Qiu Tu quite indecisive.


    So, he arranged work for Cao Dabiao and others on the spot after recovering, which was actually a pretext to contemplate his strategies in silence.


    And thankfully, with the hints from "Crisis Intuition" and those few minutes of thinking, Qiu Tu finally figured out the key to this crisis.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu also reined in his thoughts, then firmly addressed Yan Chen''s scrutinizing gaze, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    [17:10]


    He said, "Actually, when I learned of this case, I felt something was off about it."


    "Because that night, I was overseeing the interrogation team interrogating Yin Caimei."


    "Yin Caimei seemed to have no psychological issues, nor any diseases. And the interrogation by the team was quite standard, with no use of illegal tools or potions."


    "Theoretically, she shouldn''t have had any problems."


    "So, when I heard she was dead, my first suspicion was: homicide!"


    "That''s why I had the coroner conduct a physical autopsy and examination on Yin Caimei."


    "The result came back as death due to sudden cardiac arrest, purely an accidental death."


    "This result didn''t alleviate my suspicions; instead, it intensified them."


    "So, I asked the Director for permission to use a catastrophe investigation Treasure to try and detect traces of Catastrophe Power or a Catastrophe Curse being used."


    "And indeed, I found something."


    Qiu Tu said, "Last night, I detected traces of a Catastrophe Curse on Yin Caimei''s body using the ''Mist Index Book.'' I then followed the clues and found the murder weapon."


    [16:32]


    At this point, Qiu Tu clearly noticed an interested look in Yan Chen''s eyes.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised.


    Yan Chen''s previous coldness was probably because he thought it was impossible for Qiu Tu to make any significant progress in just two days.


    Speaking of progress in front of him and even claiming to have identified the murderer, he likely thought Qiu Tu was simply following Jia Shu''s lead to pin the crime on a scapegoat.


    But now, without following Jia Shu''s narrative, Qiu Tu was actually presenting something solid, so Yan Chen became intrigued.


    While Qiu Tu was mulling this over, Yan Chen questioningly, yet without joy or sorrow, asked, "Oh? The murder weapon? What murder weapon?"


    Qiu Tu said, "A book. A book that Yin Caimei brought into the guardroom against regulations, named ''Brave New World''!"


    He paused, then added, "After examination with the ''Mist Index Book,'' the book has been confirmed to be a Catastrophic Treasure, with the Catastrophe Power being of the same origin as the traces found on Yin Caimei''s body."


    "It''s precisely because of this murder weapon that I''ve greatly narrowed down the range of suspects, and even have a primary suspect in mind."


    [15:21]


    Hearing this, Yan Chen asked with an impassive expression, "So, who do you suspect now?"


    ```

 Chapter 110 - 96: Three Consecutive Countdowns? (7k)

    When Yan Chen asked this question, Qiu Tu felt a stir in his heart, knowing that the most crucial step had come.


    He stealthily glanced at Jia Shu from the corner of his eye.


    Perhaps Jia Shu had not expected Qiu Tu to have actually uncovered so many clues, or perhaps he had not expected Qiu Tu to dare defy the covert signals he had given earlier and seriously investigate the case. Finally, Jia Shu was no longer composed and untroubled as before but was looking at Qiu Tu with a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Feeling the gaze of the two powerful figures on him, Qiu Tu did not feel much pressure.


    The reason he dared to disclose so many clues and developments was because he had already thought of a plan to cope with this crisis¡ª


    So, looking at Yan Chen, he took a deep breath and suddenly pointed at Jia Shu, "Bureau Chief, I suspect it was Minister Jia who made the move!"


    [14:58]


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the entire office fell silent in an instant.


    Let alone Yan Chen, even Jia Shu, who had been maintaining a forced smile, showed a trace of astonishment on his face.


    He probably had really not expected that after all Qiu Tu had said and all the evidence he had presented, the suspicion would fall on himself:


    The problem was... the clues Qiu Tu had just mentioned hadn''t pointed to him, had they?


    This is ridiculous!


    But then remembering that Qiu Tu was not one to make baseless assertions, Jia Shu couldn''t help but race through his thoughts, pondering Qiu Tu''s intentions...


    And while Jia Shu was deep in thought, Yan Chen''s brow also furrowed significantly, his gaze fluctuating: he was clearly also considering why Qiu Tu would accuse Jia Shu.


    During this time, Qiu Tu had already left a very deep impression on him.


    So, he also did not believe that Qiu Tu genuinely thought Jia Shu was the murderer, and to point it out in front of Jia Shu himself...


    At this moment, seeing both powerful figures lost in thought, Qiu Tu also held his breath, staring straight ahead without speaking.


    He was waiting, waiting for the feedback from "Loyalty Game" and "Crisis Intuition."


    Time passed by, each second stretching into an eternity.


    Finally... two seconds later, two prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu,


    [Yan Chen''s suspicion -3, satisfaction +4]


    [Jia Shu''s satisfaction +12]


    Qiu Tu took a furtive glance at the two of them.


    Yan Chen had returned to his previous unfathomable composure, while the forced smile on Jia Shu''s face was replaced by a radiant genuine smile.


    What was more important was that the [Countdown Hourglass] in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s field of vision had stopped after jumping to [14:28], no longer ticking down.


    Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief in his heart, knowing his gamble had paid off.


    In fact, while he was tasking Cao Dabiao and the others, Qiu Tu had been pondering something.


    Could the reason why "Crisis Intuition" had not indicated the source of the crisis mean that the crisis came from both Yan Chen and Jia Shu?


    That is to say, no matter which side he chose, he could potentially become the target of resentment from the other side, thus becoming incredibly dangerous?


    Upon analyzing the situation to this point, Qiu Tu suddenly had an even bolder guess, which was... no matter which side he chose, it was not about offending one person, but two!


    You see, Jia Shu was not just Yan Chen''s right-hand man but also one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, with voting rights at the Bureau''s senior meetings.


    Further considering that he controlled the powerful Political Department of the Investigation Bureau, even if Yan Chen felt dissatisfied with him, would he really give up on Jia Shu over such a trivial matter?


    Qiu Tu felt he would not.


    Qiu Tu also had subordinates, so he put himself in their shoes. If Cao Dabiao or Chen Feng did something against his wishes, would he immediately give up on them?


    No. At most, Qiu Tu would sternly rebuke and warn them both, then continue to observe.


    After all, cultivating a subordinate with good skills, loyalty, and position is not a simple matter.


    Having thought all of this through, Qiu Tu finally understood his predicament.


    Plainly speaking, his first reaction after seeing the "Crisis Warning" was not wrong: he was a pawn being played by both Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    So, choosing either side was incorrect. Only by standing with both of them, satisfying them both, could he survive this crisis.


    With this realization, Qiu Tu quickly analyzed the "demands" of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Yan Chen''s were simple. He was clearly angry and dissatisfied with Jia Shu''s loss of control. Therefore, Qiu Tu had to agree with him and not let him continue to feel things were slipping out of control.


    Adding the several increases in "satisfaction" from Yan Chen and the hints from "Crisis Intuition," Qiu Tu knew that Yan Chen must have begun to trust him again, considering him a confidant.


    Therefore, to satisfy Yan Chen, Qiu Tu had to cut ties with Jia Shu, remaining unwaveringly on Yan Chen''s side. He had to use "concrete actions" to tell Yan Chen: Jia Shu, that villain, deceived and manipulated others, but he did not fool me! I am still working as per your intentions, Bureau Chief.


    As for Jia Shu''s "demands," after analyzing them for a long time on the road, Qiu Tu also found an answer.


    The reason Jia Shu was risking Yan Chen''s displeasure to calm down this case was 100% because of Vice President Tian.


    As to whether he had some private relationship with Vice President Tian or because of the communication surveillance system "donated" that covered the entire city, with too little information, Qiu Tu was not clear at the moment.


    But whatever the reason, what he valued most now was that this case could not be related to Vice President Tian!


    As long as this condition was met, with his personality, everything else probably didn''t matter.


    So, having guessed the demands of both parties, Qiu Tu''s answer to dealing with this crisis emerged:


    He could not be perfunctory, could not find a scapegoat, he had to honestly report the truth he found¡ªbut this truth could not involve Vice President Tian.


    Not involving Vice President Tian also meant that the Qin Family and Shun Yun Communications couldn''t be mentioned.


    After all, once mentioned, given Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s cunning and ability to take advantage of the situation, they could guess the role Vice President Tian played. It would still affect Vice President Tian and anger Jia Shu.


    So... after thinking it over, Qiu Tu simply threw the blame on Jia Shu.


    This was a hint that killed two birds with one stone: it told Yan Chen that Qiu Tu had no relationship with Jia Shu whatsoever, even daring to challenge his authority to his face; it also told Jia Shu that Qiu Tu had indeed found out about Vice President Tian but had followed his orders and not reported it.


    Qiu Tu admitted that his method of resolving the situation indeed involved gambling. But... he only had a brief 2 minutes from receiving the orders to meeting Yan Chen, and he had no time to think of a more perfect solution.


    Fortunately, the plan worked....


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was recalling his whole strategic thought process for the plan, Yan Chen also "hehe" laughed a couple of times.


    He might have smoked too much; his laugh was very hoarse and raspy, like an ominous night owl.


    "Qiu Tu, your speculation is quite interesting,"


    As he said this, he glanced at Jia Shu with interest. The chilly atmosphere that had permeated when he first entered the office seemed to have dissipated quite a bit, replaced by a more lively one.


    His hoarse voice asked, "Minister Jia, what do you think about your subordinate''s speculation?"


    Clearly, he was using Qiu''s conjecture to take a dig at Jia Shu.


    But at this moment, Jia Shu didn''t seem to care at all. The fact that Vice President Tian had not been exposed already proved that Qiu Tu was "on his side."


    Thus, with a radiant smile, he leaned slightly toward Yan Chen and said, "Bureau Chief, I think Agent Qiu is just joking."


    Yan Chen turned to Qiu Tu and uttered an "Oh?" before asking, "Is that so?"


    Of course, Qiu Tu had to firmly stand with Yan Chen at this point.


    So he quickly shook his head, "Bureau Chief, I am not joking."


    He said, "Minister Jia is indeed at the top of my list of suspects."


    "For three main reasons,"


    "1. The murder weapon, the book-like cataclysmic treasure, was specially approved by Minister Jia for the deceased to bring into the guard room."


    "2. Last night, when I was using the ''Mist Index Book'' for the investigation, my boss, the head of the Interrogation Section, Zheng Tao, deliberately came to the morgue."


    "But the only person who knew I would go to the morgue last night to investigate was Minister Jia. I suspect Zheng Tao was sent by Minister Jia to gather information."


    "3. And the most important..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu looked deeply at Jia Shu and said in a subdued voice, "When Minister Jia handed the case over to me, he hinted several times that I should find a scapegoat to muddle through this case."


    [Yan Chen Satisfaction +5]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen actually burst into hearty laughter. He seemed utterly pleased, as if he had regained control of the situation and was reveling in his victory.


    And more importantly... Qiu Tu had been covertly observing Jia Shu''s expression.


    There was not a hint of murderous intent or malice in Jia Shu''s eyes, only a dense "interest" that seemed almost tangible...


    Clearly... for Jia Shu, as long as Qiu Tu did not drag Vice President Tian into the matter, he did not care how much dirt was splashed on him.


    After all, Yan Chen wouldn''t really believe it...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu felt even more at ease.


    [Jia Shu Satisfaction +3]


    At that moment, after laughing twice, Yan Chen also withdrew his smile. He reverted to the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau who was powerful and impassive.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and criticized softly, "Qiu Tu, I recognize your investigative abilities. But... your thinking is completely wrong!"


    "This time, I will forgive you on behalf of Minister Jia. But there won''t be a next time!"


    He paused and then said, with a hint of indirect scolding, "At any time, you must not question or oppose your superior!"


    "It would throw the entire Investigation Bureau into chaos!"


    Listening to Yan Chen''s stern but actually... rather feeble criticism, Qiu Tu also knew it was time to steer the conversation back. So he obediently bowed his head and replied, "Yes, Bureau Chief. It''s my lack of experience that led me astray."


    Yan Chen nodded with satisfaction, then said, "Good. It''s great that you have this understanding."


    He spoke with a deep look in his eyes, "I originally thought that with your abilities, handling this case might be too difficult, so I was prepared to have someone else take over."


    "But now seeing that you have already done a pretty good job, I''ll leave this case in your hands."


    "However, the Municipal Committee is watching this case closely, so you need to solve it quickly and close it!"


    After speaking, he pondered for a moment and gave a deadline, "By next Wednesday at the latest, I want to see results!"


    As Yan Chen spoke, the first countdown hourglass on the top left corner of Qiu Tu''s vision slowly turned into a little treasure chest. Then... a second countdown hourglass gradually appeared.


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu glanced at Jia Shu and saw that Jia was giving him a smile that was not quite a smile.


    Then he looked at Yan Chen, who had a stern expression.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    At that moment, Qiu Tu really felt like a million alpacas were thundering through his heart!


    Fuck, why are you torturing me, a small fry, with this love-hate drama between you two?!


    Wasn''t once enough, and now you want a second round?


    I was able to satisfy both of your demands this time by exploiting the information gap, but how am I supposed to meet both of your requirements next time?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu was inclined to refuse.


    But before he could say anything, in the next second, a countdown hourglass quickly moved next to the two in front.


    Simultaneously, the third countdown hourglass''s hint also popped up:


    [With your brilliant performance, Yan Chen has regained his trust in you.]


    [And with your "help", he has also successfully intimidated Jia Shu and reclaimed the feeling of having great power in his grasp.]


    [So, don''t oppose him or anger him when he is happiest.]


    [You wouldn''t want to find out what he would do to you in a towering rage...]


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Fine, fine, fine. This is how you want to play it? S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then don''t blame me!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then looked at Yan Chen, saying seriously, "Chief, I believe I can complete the task!"


    "But... the time is a bit tight, so I request authorization to use special measures without restriction!"


    ------

 Chapter 111 - 97: Two Major Gains After the Crisis

    Hearing his words, Yan Chen''s gaze suddenly sharpened.


    He did not express his stance immediately, but fell silent for two seconds before asking, "What unconventional measures do you wish to utilize?"


    Standing upright, Qiu Tu spoke earnestly, "Including but not limited to compulsory searches, arrests before investigation, torture during interrogation, the privilege to mobilize 2-3 squads of the Special Service Department''s teams, and the Special Arrest Warrant for arbitrarily detaining officials below the Bureau Chief level without liability!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the office fell into silence once again....


    Were Qiu Tu''s demands high?


    Actually, not really. Since the Political Department itself functions as secret police, it inherently has the powers to compel searches, make arrests before investigation, and even resort to torture during interrogation.


    But.... if you add the privilege of mobilizing Special Task Squads and the Special Arrest Warrant for arbitrarily detaining officials below the Bureau Chief level, it starts to become intimidating.


    How many senior officials at the Bureau Chief level and above are there among Xinjie City''s three major power institutions?


    Just dozens.


    This would mean that, apart from these few dozen people, Qiu Tu could do as he pleases in Xinjie City for the next five days, capturing and interrogating anyone he wanted!


    Moreover, without any liability!


    After all... Qiu Tu had also requested "immunity" from liability.


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen couldn''t help but hesitate. He instinctively glanced at Jia Shu, wanting to gauge his opinion.


    However, just as his eyes were moving in that direction, he restrained himself.


    That''s because he suddenly remembered some of Jia Shu''s recent deceitful acts and secretive doings....


    Thus, his expression darkened slightly as he scrutinized Qiu Tu carefully.


    There''s one very important aspect of being a boss: that is, you must maintain the balance of power among your subordinates, ensuring that no single subordinate becomes too powerful.


    Because, once a subordinate gains too much power, along with a group of confidants and allies, it''s quite possible they could undermine their superior, rendering the superior a mere figurehead, with decrees that hold no power beyond their office.


    This is even riskier in the case of someone like Jia Shu, who is only one position below Yan Chen and holds significant sway over personnel decisions in the Sanctuary.


    Also considering the worrisome trends Jia Shu had exhibited lately, Yan Chen, after some hesitation, suddenly thought: maybe... using Qiu Tu to divide some of Jia Shu''s power, to warn and contain Jia Shu, wouldn''t be a bad idea?


    After all, Qiu Tu was just a Deputy Staff, whose position and power could be decided with a word from him, without any fear of losing control.


    Moreover, a Deputy Staff asking for such extensive authority would have to depend on him to actualize that power, which would make it easier to control.


    Additionally, given the case has a deadline, the authority would last for no more than five days, making it less risky.... S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen slowly came to a decision.


    He looked up at Qiu Tu and said indifferently, "Agreed."


    "I will sign the Authorization Letter and the Special Arrest Warrant for you in a moment."


    "With the Authorization Letter and Special Arrest Warrant, you can arrest mid-level officials below the Bureau Chief at will within five days, interrogate them prior to their arrests, and use torture if necessary."


    "As long as you solve the case within five days, I won''t mind however excessive your actions are."


    At this point, he paused and took the opportunity to admonish Qiu Tu, "But Qiu Tu, I still have to remind you. You only have five days. If the murderer isn''t found once five days are up, then... don''t blame me for disregarding the camaraderie between us."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu snapped his legs together and saluted, "Yes, Chief!"


    Seeing this, Yan Chen waved his hand towards Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "You may leave."


    "Yes, Bureau Chief." Qiu Tu replied and then turned and left Jia Shu''s office.


    After Qiu Tu departed, silence slowly descended in Jia Shu''s office; neither Jia Shu nor Yan Chen spoke.


    Yan Chen sat quietly in the walnut wood office chair, as if he were the true master of the Political Department, while Jia Shu stood to one side, expressionless....


    After a long moment, Yan Chen propped himself up from the black walnut wood desk and slowly stood. He patted Jia Shu''s shoulder lightly, then left without a word.


    Seeing this, Jia Shu followed behind and saw Yan Chen out of the office. Only after watching the receding figures of Yan Chen and Ji Chen disappear at the end of the hallway did Jia Shu''s gaze flicker, and he returned to his own office.


    Back in his office, Jia Shu''s complexion gradually turned from rosy to ashen, his eyes bloodshot, and his expression began to twist into something quite ferocious.


    His tongue elongated as he licked his lips, eyes filled with perverted desire, "What a tempting fruit...."


    "To dare walk a tightrope in front of me and the Bureau Chief, playing with the gap in information."


    "Interesting, very interesting."


    "I really can''t wait for the fruit to ripen...."


    While speaking, his breathing became noticeably heavier....


    ....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, having left Jia Shu''s office, was also sorting through the achievements of the day.


    Just now, due to the love-hate relationship between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, Qiu Tu had triggered three [Crisis Countdowns].


    The first and third countdowns were short-term crises, and he had already dealt with them.


    Only the second countdown was a bit special.


    Qiu Tu clicked on his thoughts, and the Crisis Warning that had just appeared popped up before him again,


    "Your immediate superior, Yan Chen, has updated new directives for you regarding the ''Yin Caimei'' case, demanding you to clarify the case within five days."


    "His forceful intervention is likely to agitate many people and powers."


    "Clarify the case within the allotted time and ensure your safety, for the danger may just come from the shadows...."

 Chapter 112 - 97: Two Major Gains After the Crisis_2

    When Qiu Tu first saw the hint, his initial reaction was actually to suspect Jia Shu.


    After all... based on what he knew about Jia Shu, when he found out that this case was very likely to involve Vice President Tian, Jia Shu would definitely not hesitate to make a move against him.


    But after giving it some thought, Qiu Tu felt... in reality, Jia Shu didn''t need to personally take action against him. He could just leak a message, and there would be many forces wanting to strike at him.


    So... perhaps that was what the hint "the danger may come from within the darkness" was all about.


    And this also meant that in the following days, he would have to be extra careful about his own safety.


    Perhaps, at any moment, he might encounter a kidnapping, attack, or even assassination!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu adjusted his mood and then looked towards the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    Having experienced three crises just now, there were now a total of four hourglasses and treasure chests lined up in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s view.


    The first one was the Crisis Countdown he had triggered a few days ago when he took on "The Yin Caimei Case" from Jia Shu. There were 7 and a half days left.


    The second was the Crisis Countdown for "the danger within the darkness" he had just encountered, with 5 days remaining.


    The third and fourth were the treasure chests he had obtained in the office.


    Without hesitation, Qiu Tu tried clicking on these two treasure chests.


    The next second, several prompts popped up before him,


    "Survived the crisis, treasure chest reward obtained: Behemoth Ashes."


    "Behemoth Ashes: A common Cataclysmic Material, the remnants left in this world after the death of a cataclysmic behemoth, capable of enhancing an item''s spirituality and infusing Catastrophe Power."


    "Just a certain level of forging skill is required to forge treasures like ''The Thinking Sculpture''."


    "Survived the crisis, treasure chest reward obtained: Lucky Joker Card"


    "Cataclysmic Treasure: Lucky Joker Card" S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Treasure introduction: This is a deck composed of 21 cards, including 19 Aces and 2 Joker Cards."


    "Every day you can draw a card at random. If you draw an Ace, you''ll receive a ''Luck Guidance''."


    "But if you draw one of the Joker Cards, then you must kill someone at random or commit suicide."


    After checking the rewards from these two treasure chests, Qiu Tu''s eyes couldn''t help but light up a bit, feeling like the dangers he had just faced were worth it.


    For the first item, "Behemoth Ashes":


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, he had recently acquired a piece of Cataclysmic Material called "Memory Clay."


    In its introduction, there was a line that it could be used to forge treasures such as "The Thinking Sculpture," "Reverberation Echo Pot," "Starry Beyond Letter," and "Eye of Future Foresight."


    So, if Qiu Tu was not mistaken, he could potentially forge a Cataclysmic Treasure called "The Thinking Sculpture" with "Behemoth Ashes" and "Memory Clay."


    Though unclear of the precise function of this Cataclysmic Treasure, for Qiu Tu who was still in the initial stages of accumulation: any Cataclysmic Treasure would be a gain.


    At worst, it would just add to his "arsenal." One day it would come in handy.


    As for the second Cataclysmic Treasure, it was an even more unexpected joy.


    Qiu Tu had opened many Crisis Treasure Boxes, most of which contained materials, with only one being a Cataclysmic Treasure. This was the second time, and clearly, this treasure had a more significant effect.


    A daily "Luck Guidance" could either act as an "Adventure Creator" or help him with "Assistive Selection," both of which were very useful.


    So, just by seeing this Cataclysmic Treasure, Qiu Tu decided to list it as a commonly used tool.


    After checking the two major gains from this crisis, Qiu Tu closed the two treasure chests, satisfied, planning to take them out and test them when there was nobody around.


    As for now... it was better to first ponder over the actual case:


    Two Crisis Countdowns related to "The Yin Caimei Case" were laid out before him, reminding him once more of the complexity of the case at hand.


    He had to figure out a way to thoroughly investigate the case, uncover the real perpetrator, and clarify the demands of the involved parties in order to successfully survive this crisis!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu quickly returned to the investigation team.


    Upon arriving at the temporary office of the investigation team, a bustling scene unfolded: Cao Dabiao, Liu Fuping, Chen Feng, and others were copying documents, organizing files.


    Qiu Tu naturally joined in and began the busy work of investigating....


    Soon, a day slowly passed by.


    During the day, Qiu Tu and the likes of Cao Dabiao and Liu Fuping finished sorting all the files, took a close look, and then discovered several interesting things.


    First, by categorizing the itineraries of Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei by location, it became apparent that they often visited the Zhizhen Grand Hotel and a residence on Xintian Road.


    The former was a place where the Qin Family and United Front had once discussed cooperation.


    Considering most people''s habit of frequenting just one or two restaurants, Zhizhen Grand Hotel was very likely a meeting point for United Front, so... Vice President Tian''s suspicion was indeed very great.


    The latter was most likely one of Vice President Tian''s secret safe houses. It likely contained some clues or evidence of wrongdoing.


    Second, looking at the gift registry by the people involved with Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei, it was evident that besides frequent interactions with major merchants from the same chamber of commerce, most interactions were with the Qin Family and several major transportation vendors.


    Lastly, organizing Vice President Tian and Yin Caimei''s itineraries and gift registry in chronological order revealed that in the past year, Vice President Tian''s visits to the Zhenzhen Grand Restaurant, as well as his dealings with the Qin Family and major transportation vendors, were becoming less and less frequent.


    Initially, he would go to the Zhenzhen Grand Hotel three or four times a month and meet with the Qin Family and major transportation vendors five or six times, but in the past two months, he had only been to the Zhenzhen Grand Hotel once and had only seen Commissioner Qin once.


    Qiu Tu guessed... this was probably because Xinjie City had been cracking down on anti-government armed forces; their influence had severely contracted, resulting in diminishing cooperation with Vice President Tian.


    Or, could it be that their cooperation had become so close that they didn''t need to meet as often?


    Due to the shortage of clues, it was impossible to determine the specific reasons for now.


    And so, after a busy day sorting through all the clues, Vice President Tian''s image in Qiu Tu''s mind grew increasingly vivid.


    Qiu Tu felt that if he wasn''t wrong, there was an 70 to 80 percent chance that Vice President Tian was problematic....


    What he was only worried about was whether Jia Shu would take any extreme actions if they arrested Vice President Tian?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s brows involuntarily furrowed.


    After all, offending one''s immediate supervisor was always a troublesome matter¡ªespecially when that supervisor was a pervert.


    At this time, just as Qiu Tu was deep in thought.


    Seeing that the other members of the investigation team had left, Liu Fuping also came to Qiu Tu with a heavy step.


    The beautiful young woman was wearing a white strapless dress today, rich and generous. As she moved, it dazzled Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu came to his senses, glanced at her chest, then suddenly felt weak and collapsed backward.


    Liu Fuping was startled and instinctively caught Qiu Tu.


    And so... Qiu Tu naturally ended up in the arms of the beautiful young woman. Mmm... she was fragrant and soft....


    "Oh my, I feel so dizzy," Qiu Tu pretended to say.


    Liu Fu looked puzzled, her face full of surprise, "Why did you suddenly faint?"


    Qiu Tu covered his face, his elbow grazing her chest, and then pointed at Liu Fu''s strapless dress, "Too big. Dizzy...."


    Realizing what Qiu Tu meant, Liu Fu understood that he was taking advantage of her.


    Her pretty face blushed, her heart fluttered, feeling that her young superior''s methods of taking advantage were becoming more and more blatant.


    She gave Qiu Tu an annoyed look, "I have serious matters to discuss with you, and all you can think about is taking advantage of me!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and finally stopped fooling around.


    He used his strong core strength to stand up straight and then asked curiously, "What''s the serious matter Sister Liu has for me?"


    Liu Fuping leaned in close to Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Tang Feifei wants to meet with you tonight."


    "At... my place."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    -----


    Indeed, there is something going on at home tonight, only 4000 words, will return to 7000 words for two updates tomorrow.

 Chapter 113 - 98: The Boss is a Bad Guy (7k)

    "Your place?"


    Having just received a "Crisis Warning," Qiu Tu was now a bit paranoid.


    So his first thought was... could Liu Fuping be planning to harm him?


    To arrange their first meeting, such an important guest, at the home of a lover?


    Was Tang Feifei crazy, was Liu Fuping crazy, or were the two of them plotting some unspeakable activities?


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s wayward thoughts, Liu Fuping gave him a sidelong glance and then said, "Don''t get the wrong idea."


    "Actually... she wanted to have a coincidental meeting with you."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping briefly shared Tang Feifei''s thoughts with him.


    Turns out, Tang Feifei had instructed her assistant, Su Xiaowan, to seek out Qiu Tu twice yesterday, once in the morning and once in the evening, in hopes of arranging a meeting with Qiu Tu, all of which Qiu Tu turned down.


    Thus, not one to give up easily, she had Su Xiaowan extend another invitation to Qiu Tu this morning, and yet Qiu Tu rejected her for the third time.


    This left her both infuriated and somewhat baffled as to what Qiu Tu was really thinking.


    Moreover, the news about Director Yan signing a "Special Arrest Warrant" and an "Authorization Letter" for Qiu Tu had spread among the upper echelons today, and she could no longer sit idly by.


    So... she then decided to meet Qiu Tu in person.


    And because of her unique status, and the sensitivity of meeting Qiu Tu alone, she decided to have Liu Fuping invite Qiu Tu over for dinner at her place.


    Afterward, she would make a visit to Liu Fuping''s home during the meal, and thus naturally come face to face with Qiu Tu.


    After hearing Liu Fuping''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s first reaction was confusion: Hold on, had he really turned down Tang Feifei three times?


    If he remembered correctly, he had only refused once yesterday morning, hadn''t he?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu''s brain started working at high speed.


    A moment later, he had a pretty good guess as to what was happening.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, Tang Feifei must have arranged for Su Xiaowan to meet him last night.


    However, Su Xiaowan''s visit coincided with his meeting with Qin Shuman, which was unexpected.


    And because Su Xiaowan ended up oversleeping after a late-night assignment, she forgot to convey Tang Feifei''s orders.


    As for the third invitation this morning, Su Xiaowan likely knew of Qiu Tu''s "true identity" and some of his thoughts, figured he wouldn''t accept, and simply took the liberty of not bothering to seek him out.


    But, it had to be said, this stroke of bad luck actually worked out for the best. Su Xiaowan''s repeated laziness had successfully made Tang Feifei restless and had unintentionally made Qiu Tu''s "fishing operation" a tremendous success¡ªshe nearly took the bait, hook, line, and sinker.


    Thinking this way, and having sorted out the whole affair, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and shamelessly took all the credit, "So that''s how it is. Then it seems my plan has worked."


    "It appears Tang Feifei has taken the bait..."


    Liu Fuping, believing all this was indeed Qiu Tu''s doing, closed the distance between them unwittingly, her eyes seductively lifted to meet his, and teasingly complimented with a hint of suggestiveness, "Yes. I didn''t expect her to lose her cool so easily."


    "It seems... the commander has quite the skills."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, and feeling the heat of her playful fire, Qiu Tu unabashedly played along.


    He gazed deeply into Liu Fuping''s eyes and joked, "Sister Liu, I''ve got more than just skills~~"


    After saying that, he winked at Liu Fuping.


    "Ho ho ho ho...."


    Liu Fuping laughed so hard her whole body shook, and then she retorted, "Really? So... care for a firsthand experience tonight?"


    With that, she squinted her eyes, provocatively licked her lips at Qiu Tu.


    For a moment there... Qiu Tu admitted he was almost on his feet.


    ''Damn it. Ever since the last time I unraveled this woman''s seal, she seems to be playing more and more freely.''


    Cursing inwardly, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate to reach out his hand.


    ''Who cares if she''s reserved or not, only a fool would pass up an opportunity!''


    Seeing his move, Liu Fuping blushed and swatted Qiu Tu''s hand away, spitting, "Shameless."


    "It''s just talk, there''s no need for action!"


    Qiu Tu chuckled "hehe," feeling the satisfaction of gaining the upper hand.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s brazenness, Liu Fuping shook her head slightly, feeling that no matter what she did, she ended up at a disadvantage.


    Therefore, she stopped teasing Qiu Tu and turned to open the window, letting in fresh air to dispel the flirtatious atmosphere a bit.


    The cool breeze indeed helped the two overheated individuals cool down, and they were finally in the mood to discuss serious matters.


    Qiu Tu, enjoying the cool breeze, looked out the window and calmly asked, "Did you tell Tang Feifei about the leads you''ve found over the past two days?"


    Liu Fuping nodded slightly, "I did as you said, and secretly reported most of the information to her."


    She paused, "I guess that''s probably why she couldn''t stay put¡ªa big reason for her restlessness."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, his hands resting on the window sill before he fell into contemplation. After a moment, he asked, "So, did you manage to steal any intelligence from her?"


    Liu Fuping hesitated before responding, "I did steal a bit, but not much."


    Qiu Tu felt she was lying to him, but he didn''t call her out on it.


    He looked at Liu Fuping and asked, "Is there a list of spies from the Investigation Bureau in City Hall or the military?"


    At Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping visibly startled. She then looked Qiu Tu up and down with suspicion and hesitantly said, "You... are you also?"


    Qiu Tu chuckled and tapped her on the head, "What are you thinking about?"


    "Of course I''m not one of their scouts, but... I want to work with them."


    "And to collaborate, one needs leverage."


    "As you know, this case is far too complex and unique."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping fell silent for a moment before saying, "It would be quite difficult to get that list."


    "After all, the identity of a spy is top-level confidential information for any organization."


    "It''s not just about whether Tang Feifei can get it or not. Even if she could, she''d most likely keep it in her head instead of putting it down on paper."


    Qiu Tu nodded in agreement.


    Liu Fuping''s reasoning made sense. However, Qin Shuman was his important ally, and now they were working together on the Yin Caimei case. Helping Qin Shuman was helping himself, so he still wanted to give it a try... sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, as he schemed on how to obtain that list.


    After considering this for a while, a plan began to take shape in Qiu Tu''s mind: It seemed that everything would depend on tonight...


    At this thought, Qiu Tu gave Liu Fuping''s plump buttocks a firm slap and said, "Alright, forget about that for now! Tonight, we go to your place and meet with Director Tang!"


    Liu Fuping was so startled by Qiu Tu''s sudden attack that she nearly jumped. She clutched her plump bottom and glared at Qiu Tu, her face flushed with embarrassment and annoyance.


    She realized that her superior officer was a naughty rascal. He would take advantage with his words if he could and with his hands if he had the chance, never bothering to conceal it.


    Furthermore, as long as she gave him a chance, he would take it. Even without an opportunity, he would find a way to create one¡ªit was both embarrassing and frustrating.


    ''Such an annoying, naughty rascal...'' she thought.


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping once again glanced at Qiu Tu with a coy look in her eye,


    .....


    She locked the documents and files in the safe, turned off the lights, and left her office.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping left the Investigation Bureau building and headed towards her home.


    Liu Fuping''s residence was located in an upscale residential district not far from the Investigation Bureau building.


    This was built before and after Xinjie City''s establishment, renovated and reconstructed by the wealthy merchants from the Sanctuary.


    While it couldn''t compare to the villas of middle and high-ranking officials, it was already much better than other neighborhoods in Xinjie City in terms of the living environment.


    Driving into the district, Qiu Tu parked the car under Liu Fuping''s guidance beneath a Western-style building.


    After parking, Qiu Tu followed Liu Fuping up to the third floor.


    This Western-style building had only one apartment per floor, and upon opening the door, there was a spacious flat of over 150 square meters.


    Qiu Tu, having never lived in such a fine residence in either of his lives, admired Liu Fuping''s home while exclaiming in wonder, "Sister Liu, is Director Tang wealthy or is it your organization behind the scenes that has money?"


    "Your place is simply like a palace."


    Liu Fuping laughed at Qiu Tu''s exaggerated tone, "My place is like a palace? What would you say if you saw the villas of Director Yan and Director Tang?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "I''ve seen them. But back then, there was only one thought in my mind."


    Liu Fuping was curious, "What thought?"


    Qiu Tu said in mock resentment, "Excessive luxury! Reckless extravagance! Living in a dream! Reveling in pleasure!"


    "Having those bastards as bureau chiefs is really an injustice by heaven! If I were the bureau chief..."


    Liu Fuping asked with curiosity, "What would you do?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "I would be an even bigger bastard!"


    "Ho ho ho ho....."


    Liu Fuping was so amused by Qiu Tu that she shook with laughter, waves following one after another, almost unable to straighten her back. Qiu Tu, thus, enjoyed another glimpse of the charms of a mature woman...


    Knowing that Tang Feifei would be arriving soon, they didn''t chat much more.


    Liu Fuping prepared several dishes according to Tang Feifei''s plan, placed them on the dining table, then uncorked a bottle of red wine of an undetermined vintage for them to enjoy.


    After that, they sat opposite each other at the dining table and started their dinner.


    Liu Fuping''s cooking wasn''t terrible, at least not fatal.


    However, Qiu Tu had barely taken a few bites when his body suddenly tensed, and all the hairs on his body stood on end!

 Chapter 114 - 99: Dinner with Two Women (7k)

    ```


    At that instant, his instincts made him look toward the door, filled with a sense of danger as if he had encountered a "natural enemy."


    As he savored the feeling, it didn''t seem quite like a natural enemy but more like the instinctive reaction of a lower animal on the food chain encountering a higher one.


    He couldn''t help but look up at Liu Fuping.


    But strangely, Liu Fuping seemed to have no reaction at all and continued to eat her dinner with her head down.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat puzzled: Could it be... that only Cataclysmics have this sense of detection? Ordinary people can''t feel it?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but quickly conceal all his presence, trying to make himself appear no different from Liu Fuping.


    But... his attention remained fixed on the door. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Because, if his guess was correct, the person outside the door giving him such a strong sense of presence must be Tang Feifei!


    Indeed, following Qiu Tu''s train of thought.


    Someone outside Liu Fuping''s room door gently knocked.


    Liu Fuping gave Qiu Tu a look and then stood up while calling out, "Coming. Who is it?"


    As she spoke, she walked to the door and then opened it.


    The next second was the moment for a showdown of two best actresses'' acting skills.


    Upon seeing Tang Feifei outside the door, Liu Fuping timely displayed a surprised expression, "Director Tang? What brings you here?"


    And Tang Feifei outside held up the food she brought and said somewhat aloofly, "I happen to be free today, so I came to have dinner with you."


    As she said this, she rigidly glanced toward the dining area inside the house and then asked expressionlessly, "Do you have guests over?"


    Hearing her, best actress Liu Fuping also timely made room and said with an awkward expression, "Yes, we worked too late today at the investigation team, so I invited my supervisor Qiu Tu over for a simple meal."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping looked towards Qiu Tu and introduced him, "Chief Qiu, this is Deputy Director Tang from our Investigation Bureau."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s introduction, Qiu Tu knew the time had come to test his acting skills. He stood up with a look of surprise, glanced at Liu Fuping, then at Tang Feifei.


    Then he respectfully bowed to Tang Feifei, "Director Tang, hello!"


    Tang Feifei, upon hearing this, seemed to have some of the frost on her face melt away.


    Looking at Qiu Tu, she nodded, "Since it''s one of our own, let''s all eat together."


    With that simple sentence, Tang Feifei seized control of the conversation, depriving Qiu Tu of even the chance to refuse.


    So, Qiu Tu also timely displayed a hint of embarrassment and difficulty. Then he reluctantly said, "Then I will respectfully comply."


    "Please, Director Tang."


    And so, with three people and two agendas, the stage was set for the night''s events to begin.


    Liu Fuping led Tang Feifei to the dining table. Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on Tang Feifei for a short moment, seeing this legendary woman for the first time.


    As Liu Fuping had said: Tang Feifei possessed a demeanor unlike ordinary people. She was like a mother tiger, a lioness, naturally exuding a confident regal aura, as if nothing in this world could ever trouble her.


    Coupled with her wheat-colored skin, her neat short hair, robust figure, and icy demeanor, she was indeed a woman with her unique charm!


    After Tang Feifei sat down, an icy atmosphere permeated the air, and the whole table''s ambiance became a bit more sober.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping took the initiative to pour Tang Feifei a glass of wine and then raised her glass, inviting, "Director, Chief, meeting today must be fate."


    "Let''s have a drink."


    Having said that, she drained the wine in her glass.


    As the host, neither Qiu Tu nor Tang Feifei could refuse the courtesy, so seeing this, they "had to" pick up their glasses and started to drink as well.


    After one drink, Liu Fuping poured another glass for both of them and herself, then continued, "This second glass of wine, I want to thank the Director and the Chief. Without you two, there would be no me."


    "It''s really not easy for a weak woman like me to find a place in this chaotic world."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping once again drained her glass.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei, who gave him a look back, then she picked up her glass and boldly drained it in one gulp.


    Qiu Tu felt a little bald.


    This part wasn''t in the script.


    His tolerance for alcohol could only be considered average; having drunk two glasses already, how was he to continue drinking?


    Although he was complaining inwardly, Qiu Tu had no choice but to refuse, so he could only pick up his glass and drink another one.


    The three of them were drinking red wine from glasses that held around 200-300 milliliters; even if the wine was only poured halfway, it would still be about 100-150 milliliters per glass.


    Two glasses down, this was equivalent to drinking 4-6 liang (200-300 milliliters) of alcohol on an empty stomach.


    So, seeing Liu Fuping picking up the third glass, Qiu Tu hurriedly decided to skip this "ice-breaking" activity.


    He took the initiative to pick up his glass and toasted to Tang Feifei, "Director Tang, I had long heard of your esteemed name, but I did not expect to meet you tonight. Truly, it is a great fortune in life."


    "To you."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu drained his glass.


    With Qiu Tu''s toast, Tang Feifei finally showed a hint of a smile on her ice-like face.


    She smiled slightly and also drank the wine in her glass, formally starting the evening''s serious conversation with Qiu Tu, "I have actually been paying close attention to Chief Qiu as well."


    "I have even asked my assistant to invite you over to my office several times."


    "But you seem to be busy and haven''t had the time?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu took a bite of food, and while eating, he spoke as if he was troubled, "Today, I have been pursued here by Director Tang, so I won''t hide it from you anymore."


    ```

 Chapter 115 - 99: Dinner with Two Women (7k)_2

    "Actually, I''m in a difficult position as well."


    "I was brought up by Secretary Bai and Minister Jia, and I''ve also received favor from Director Yan."


    "And your... relationship with him is well known within the Bureau."


    "So... it really wouldn''t be appropriate for me to meet with you...."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s expression remained unchanged, but Liu Fuping was startled.


    The two of them hadn''t planned for this.


    Moreover... by talking so frankly, wasn''t Qiu Tu aware that he might make the atmosphere awkward tonight, or expose himself by acknowledging that Tang Feifei had set him up?


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but glance at Tang Feifei.


    To her surprise, Tang Feifei seemed not the least bit taken aback.


    Liu Fuping grew more puzzled. After pondering for a moment, she suddenly realized:


    Given the abilities Qiu Tu had displayed to the outside world, even if he hadn''t been aware beforehand, he should have guessed that this was all a deliberate arrangement the moment Tang Feifei appeared.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s decision to directly clarify his understanding of the situation was the most appropriate and logical action.


    With this realization, Liu Fuping suddenly felt she still had a long way to go to be a qualified spy....


    While she was thinking this, Tang Feifei spoke up.


    Tang Feifei didn''t deny that tonight''s arrangement was intentional. In fact... she made things even clearer. She said calmly, "I understand the concerns in Chief Qiu''s heart."


    "But if you ask me, the moment Jia Shu handed over the Yin Caimei case to you, they had essentially already given up on you."


    With that, Tang Feifei took a sip of her drink before continuing, "This case may be small, but it has attracted too many people''s attention."


    "One wrong step, and you could fall into an abyss."


    At the right moment, Qiu Tu sighed, picked up his drink, and also took a sip.


    Then he glanced at Liu Fuping and said to Tang Feifei, "It seems Director Tang is already aware of everything?"


    Tang Feifei raised her eyebrows noncommittally.


    Qiu Tu sighed again, looking resigned and a bit faraway as he said, "Actually, I''m very conflicted now."


    "When I received this case, I felt something wasn''t quite right."


    "But it was a task given by the minister, and I couldn''t refuse. So, I had to go ahead and investigate, no matter what."


    "The more I looked into it, the more frightened I became. The local magnates of Xinjie City, the great merchants from the Sanctuary, the Municipal Committee, the military, the Investigation Bureau, forces from all sides entangled within."


    "Even within each faction, there are different ideas and opinions about this case."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu deliberately let his gaze become unfocused, as if he was drunk.


    He gave an example, "Take our Investigation Bureau, for example."


    "Our minister seems to have some special relationship with Vice President Tian."


    "So he has been hinting to me to make a sham case, to brush this one off."


    "And... Director Yan, because our minister went against him on this matter, has asked me to be strict with this case." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu raised both hands, his eyes bleary, and said, "One superior, and the superior of my superior."


    "Being caught between these two people, I already have a difficult time."


    "Not to mention, there are over a dozen other forces I dare not provoke!"


    Upon hearing the "inadvertent" intelligence that Qiu Tu disclosed, Tang Feifei''s eyes flickered slightly, and a thoughtful expression emerged on her face.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her inadvertently, knowing that she had received the message he had conveyed.


    Yes, that''s right; the reason Qiu Tu made the key contradiction of the matter explicit was to cast the "bait" out first to capture Tang Feifei''s attention.


    On the way to Liu Fuping''s home earlier, Qiu Tu had been contemplating what to use to drag Tang Feifei into the water.


    Lies made up on the spot? Fabricated clues? Pie-in-the-sky promises?


    Qiu Tu felt none of these would work.


    After finalizing the plan to drag Tang Feifei into the scheme yesterday, Qiu Tu carefully gathered information about her.


    In his mind, Tang Feifei was a woman who possessed both the sensibility of a mature woman and the calmness of a politician.


    As a standard Action-Oriented Person, she was confident, strong, and shrewd, like a queen who couldn''t tolerate sand in her eyes.


    Therefore, if Qiu Tu were to open the situation with deceit, it would be too easy to provoke backlash.


    So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu decided to still lure the strong and predatory her with "true information," which interested her the most!


    And what was she most interested in?


    At first, Qiu Tu thought it was leveraging Yan Chen''s weaknesses.


    But later he realized... Yan Chen''s weaknesses might seem useful, but in fact, they weren''t very effective.


    After all, compared to Yan Chen, Tang Feifei''s influence, whether in Xinjie City or the Sanctuary, was far weaker.


    Just relying on some dirt, you couldn''t bring down Yan Chen, and it was very likely only to startle the snake in the grass.


    Therefore, even if Qiu Tu collected a bunch of dirt on Yan Chen for Tang Feifei, it was highly probable that after obtaining it, she would lie low and stop taking action.


    Since Yan Chen''s weaknesses wouldn''t lure Tang Feifei, what could?


    Qiu Tu felt it was the weaknesses of Jia Shu and the fractures in the relationship between Yan Chen and Jia Shu...


    As the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei couldn''t touch Yan Chen, but by allying with other deputy directors or higher-ups, she might be able to make a move on Jia Shu.


    And Jia Shu, being Yan Chen''s right-hand man and the highest-ranking person in the ace department of the Political Department of the Investigation Bureau...


    Once he was taken down, Yan Chen would not only lose an arm, reducing her strength, but also vacate a position in a department with real power, offering huge benefits.


    Indeed, when Tang Feifei heard the "secret" about Jia Shu that Qiu Tu disclosed, her gaze changed, as if filled with aggressiveness.


    Qiu Tu sneakily glanced at Tang Feifei and, confirming that she was interested, continued to speak "drunkenly,"


    "Ah. Actually... I quite understand our minister."


    "He seems to have a very close personal relationship with Vice President Tian, and the two sides have many collaborations."


    "And this time, Vice President Tian has promised to set up a monitoring system capable of surveilling all communication networks in the city for him."


    "It''s no wonder he''s tempted."


    "After all, it''s said that this monitoring system can retrieve all the records of any communicator within a certain time frame."


    "It can also eavesdrop on targeted communicators'' calls and message contents."


    "Even without the communicators'' numbers, one could designate an area and listen in on all communications within that range."


    Qiu Tu''s words were actually improvised based on the development of technology from his past life.


    But... who can resist being bluffed by such convincing tales?


    Thus, Tang Feifei''s pupils noticeably contracted slightly.


    Qiu Tu knew he had achieved his second step: painting a picture of crisis.


    Just like Qiu Tu didn''t want the expansion of Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s power.


    As Yan Chen''s political opponent, Tang Feifei obviously didn''t want Yan Chen and Jia Shu to expand their influence either.


    So, telling Tang Feifei "If she didn''t stop them, then the expansion of Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s power would be unstoppable, and it could make her future incredibly passive" became Qiu Tu''s second step in forcing Tang Feifei to make a choice.


    Having completed the second step, Qiu Tu knew that he should give Tang Feifei some time to process the information, and it was also time for him to use his two Cataclysmic treasures!


    Tang Feifei had drunk several glasses of wine just now, making her face slightly red. Although her gaze was still incredibly clear, there was still a hint of tipsiness.


    So, if he used the Mandragora Love Drug at this moment, she was more likely not to notice anything unusual. Or even if she did notice something was off, she would probably attribute it to the alcohol.


    Then he would add the Lucky Joker Card on top.


    Using the two treasures together might bring unexpected effectiveness to the plan for the evening.


    Thinking this way, he rose unsteadily and slurred his way to Liu Fuping, "Liu, Sister Liu... where is your restroom?"


    -----

 Chapter 116 - 100: Using the Lucky Joker Card (7k)

    At this moment, Liu Fuping was still immersed in the topic guidance that Qiu Tu had towards Tang Feifei.


    Previously, she had only tangentially understood Qiu Tu''s brainwashing skills, but she had never experienced them firsthand.


    However, tonight, as an observer with "God''s Perspective," she watched Qiu Tu''s brainwashing process up close and felt she had gained a lot.


    Every word, every action, and even every expression of Qiu Tu''s was subtly guiding the situation at the dinner table.


    Clearly, Tang Feifei had an impressive presence, and she had taken control of the entire conversation as soon as she sat down, relying on her own status.


    But... under Qiu Tu''s silent and unnoticeable influence, the control of the topic was slowly being stolen by Qiu Tu.


    Possessing God''s Perspective, Liu Fuping could even clearly discern Qiu Tu''s purpose with each step.


    This kind of unique firsthand teaching was making Liu Fuping grow rapidly.


    Initially, Liu Fuping thought the conversation tonight would just continue indefinitely, but to her surprise, Qiu Tu suddenly stopped the topic and, with a tipsy stagger, stood up to go to the bathroom.


    Honestly, Liu Fuping was a bit puzzled by Qiu Tu''s purpose in doing this.


    But having already witnessed many of Qiu Tu''s miraculous actions tonight, she still chose to quietly observe his actions.


    She felt that if she could fully understand all of Qiu Tu''s actions tonight, then she was not far from becoming an excellent con artist... ah, no, an excellent spy.


    So with that thought, when she saw Qiu Tu stand up, Liu Fuping quickly stood up as well.


    She first pointed towards the location of the bathroom, and then said, "The bathroom is over there. Chief Qiu, let me help you over."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, with a drunken wave of his hand, said, "I''m not drunk, and even if I were... I could still hold myself up! No need for your help."


    After saying this, he staggered toward the direction Liu Fuping had indicated.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s coarse words, Liu Fuping''s face flushed slightly, then she stealthily glanced at Tang Feifei.


    She had assumed Tang Feifei would be furious upon hearing Qiu Tu tease her like that.


    However, to her surprise, Tang Feifei seemed to be so lost in thought, furrowing her brows as if she hadn''t heard anything.


    The healthy wheat color of Tang Feifei''s skin looked exceptionally beautiful under the dim lighting, exuding a rare athletic beauty of a woman.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping''s brain worked quickly, and then she sat back down in her dining chair, tentatively asking, "Director Tang, what''s the matter?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s question, Tang Feifei slowly came back to reality.


    Her expressions seemed to always be few, or even if she had any, they were always faint.


    So first, she looked deeply in the direction Qiu Tu had gone and then spoke somewhat pensively, "I was thinking about the information Qiu Tu just shared with me."


    "When he was talking just now, I only felt some interest, and it seemed very important."


    "But when he left and I had time to think, I started to feel more and more frightened."


    "If this case were really covered up by Jia Shu, the Political Department might soar to new heights, becoming Xinjie City''s most powerful department."


    "From then on, no one would be able to escape the Political Department''s surveillance and control."


    "No matter who it is, the Political Department could easily obtain their whereabouts, communication records, know everything about them."


    "At that moment, the Political Department would become the true black terror of Xinjie City..." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As she spoke to this point, Tang Feifei paused and then added hesitantly, "So... the more I think about it, the more I wonder if I should collaborate with Qiu Tu to take a shot at Jia Shu?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Liu Fuping''s face showed a sudden realization.


    It wasn''t that she understood Tang Feifei''s thoughts, but she suddenly grasped Qiu Tu''s intention: High-intensity expression of viewpoints wasn''t as effective as a high-intensity output of some viewpoints, followed by time for the other party to reflect, before continuing with the strong output.


    This was like a kind of life rhythm: learning by alternating effort with breaks was definitely more enjoyable than blindly toiling away.


    Having suddenly understood everything, Liu Fuping truly wished she could take out a notebook and jot down all her epiphanies.


    She felt this lesson was just too important...


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Liu Fuping was seriously studying, Qiu Tu had arrived at the bathroom.


    He closed the bathroom door, quickly checked the setup to ensure Liu Fuping hadn''t gone to the extreme of installing cameras in there, and then Qiu Tu took out the Mandragora Love Drug from his pocket.


    He dripped a drop of the love drug onto the tip of his right index finger, then skillfully smeared it onto his neck.


    Next, he put the potion back into his pocket and then took the Lucky Joker Card out from the Countdown Treasure Chest.


    As he took out the Lucky Joker Card, the next second, a deck of cards fell into his hands.


    ```


    The cards felt slightly heavy in hand, thicker and more coarse than traditional playing cards.


    Qiu Tu looked down and observed that the back of the 21 cards was blue, with a strange pattern combining inverted triangles, circles, and squares.


    Qiu Tu flipped the cards, finding among the 21 cards a black joker and a colored joker.


    The remaining 19 cards were all aces, with six of diamonds, six of clubs, three of hearts, three of spades, and one ace had a golden pattern that he had never seen before.


    With the joker cards in hand, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but contemplate his plan.


    In fact, if he was only after gaining Tang Feifei''s favor or striking a deal with her, then the "Mandragora Love Drug" would have sufficed.


    However, the reason he now produced the "Lucky Joker Card" was not only to experiment with the effects of this set of cataclysmic treasures but also to try to obtain the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau located in the Security Department from Tang Feifei.


    According to Golden Finger''s explanation, if one drew the "Lucky Ace Card," they would get a chance for "Luck Guidance."


    This guidance could be "aimless" or "purposeful."


    Considering the sensitive nature of the spy list, Qiu Tu felt he had to use the "Lucky Joker Card" for guidance.


    If the "Lucky Joker Card" guided him to ask that question, then Qiu Tu would ask.


    If the "Lucky Joker Card" did not guide him to ask that question, then Qiu Tu would temporarily give up in order to avoid exposing a possible connection with the Security Department from asking it.


    After recalling his plan, Qiu Tu didn''t delay, he flipped the cards and began shuffling.


    Once the cards were thoroughly shuffled, a mysterious force suddenly descended upon the deck.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu knew he could draw a card.


    Craftily, he attempted to flip the cards face-up and draw, but found¡ªastonishingly¡ªthat the card seemed to be fixed in mid-air, impossible to turn over.


    ''Could it be the power of the rules inherent in the treasure preventing me?'' he thought.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu abandoned trying to be clever and drew a card normally from the deck.


    He flipped the card. An Ace of Clubs appeared before Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief: although he didn''t draw the golden ace, he had at least succeeded.


    Along with his thoughts, the next second, a faint mysterious force descended upon him.


    Feeling that faint mysterious force, Qiu Tu put away the cards and then washed his hands before he awkwardly left the restroom.


    When he got back to the dining table, whether the two minutes he left for Tang Feifei let her reconsider her "situation," or the "Mandragora Love Drug" took effect, wasn''t clear.


    Qiu Tu felt that Tang Feifei seemed a bit different. Although she still appeared cold and indifferent, her eyes had softened considerably.


    Qiu Tu felt relieved in his heart; the worst-case scenario, Tang Feifei discovering he had used a cataclysmic treasure, had not happened.


    Indeed, as long as the other person had no malice and he provided a certain buffer, the covert nature of the "Mandragora Love Drug" was quite good.


    The situation like the one with Liu Fuping before must have been an exception.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu continued with his plan. He sat on the dining chair, his gaze cloudy as he looked at Tang Feifei, and asked with a slurred tongue, "So-sorry, Sister Tang. Where was I in the conversation just now?"


    Qiu Tu''s change in address was actually a probing act to shorten the distance between them, but although Tang Feifei''s eyebrows lightly furrowed, she didn''t correct him.


    She glanced at Qiu Tu and said coolly, "You were just talking about Minister Jia and Vice President Tian''s collaboration."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said, "Oh," as if just remembering, and slapped his forehead, "Look at my memory, I just can''t handle my liquor."


    While saying this, he nevertheless offered a toast to Tang Feifei, "Come, Director, let''s drink while we talk."


    After speaking, he drained the glass of red wine in one gulp.


    Only after watching Tang Feifei drink did he continue, "Actually, I''ve never understood why our Minister Jia would do this!"


    "He clearly has power and influence, and even with a standard development, his future is limitless. There''s absolutely no need to risk himself for a businessman."


    "The things he''s done, tsk tsk...."


    Qiu Tu''s two previous steps had already set the objectives for Tang Feifei and built a sense of crisis, so what he needed to do next was to provide Tang Feifei with the handle on Jia Shu.


    As expected, Tang Feifei''s interest was immediately piqued upon hearing this.


    Coupled with the dual effects of alcohol and the "Mandragora Love Drug" lowering her guard and weakening her rationality, she couldn''t help asking curiously, "What did Jia Shu do?"


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s unusually off-guard demeanor, Qiu Tu immediately knew the cataclysmic treasure had taken effect.


    So, with his acting in full force, he said in his usual persuasive manner, "Sister Tang, actually, the moment I saw you today, I just felt an extraordinary sense of closeness..."


    ```

 Chapter 117 - 101: Liu Fuping, You Go Out First (7k)

    So he put on a dramatic performance, using his usual spiel he said, "Sister Tang, actually, from the moment I saw you today, I felt an unusual sense of closeness..."


    "Just like we have met before."


    "These are words I normally shouldn''t say. After all, Jia Shu is my boss. If he knew I was talking about his scandals behind his back, he would definitely not let me off."


    "But since it''s Sister Tang who asked...."


    After laying the groundwork, Qiu Tu then leaned in close to Tang Feifei and whispered, "Sister Tang, let me tell you, Jia Shu... he''s actually mad!"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s expression changed slightly, as if she had guessed something, her eyes flickering twice.


    Qiu Tu noticed this detail and continued, "He relies on his ability to cover the sky with one hand in the Political Department. In the Yin Caimei case, he actually operated against the rules."


    "In theory, a key criminal like Yin Caimei shouldn''t carry any personal items to avoid uncontrollable incidents."


    "Yet, he specially allowed Yin Caimei to bring many personal garments, and even let her bring in a Cataclysmic treasure."


    "And what''s more crucial is that this Cataclysmic treasure was the murder weapon that killed Yin Caimei!" sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this point, Qiu Tu said mysteriously, "If he didn''t know about this treasure, that''s one thing."


    "If he knew about the function of this treasure in advance, doesn''t that make him an accomplice?"


    When Tang Feifei heard Qiu Tu''s words, her gaze began to flash crazily.


    Qiu Tu''s first few points didn''t much concern her: after all, letting a criminal carry items, though a bit negligent, was not a major issue for an official like Jia Shu.


    But... the speculations in the latter half stirred her interest.


    How items illegally brought in could serve as murder weapons... there was much to be exploited there.


    If Jia Shu truly was an accomplice in this major case, then just that alone would be enough for her to impeach him.


    And if Jia Shu wasn''t... huh? How could he not be? She declared him to be, so he was!


    With this in mind, Tang Feifei suddenly saw the light and even figured out how to target Jia Shu.


    However, precisely because of this, she looked at Qiu Tu with a hint of suspicion.


    For some reason, she always felt... that the idea was "implanted" in her by Qiu Tu. Was he deliberately leading her to such thoughts?


    But, seeing Qiu Tu''s drunken state, Tang Feifei doubted that assumption.


    ''Am I overthinking it?'' she wondered.


    As she thought thus, Tang Feifei took another deep look at Qiu Tu.


    But whether it was an illusion or not, after a few glances, she suddenly felt that Qiu Tu seemed... very handsome.


    Moreover, the drunken Qiu Tu appeared especially "cute"... giving her a desire to get closer.


    With this realization, Tang Feifei was stunned. Why would she... be interested in a man?!


    Impossible!


    With that thought, she couldn''t help but look towards Liu Fuping standing beside her.


    The beautiful young woman must have drunk some red wine and was slightly tipsy, her pale face blushing prettily, looking exceptionally beautiful and alluring under the dim lights.


    Yet, for some reason... when compared to Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei suddenly felt a lack of interest,


    She glanced at Qiu Tu, then at Liu Fuping, but eventually chose to keep her eyes on Qiu Tu and continued to listen to the scandals about Jia Shu.


    Qiu Tu had indeed prepared long for this day.


    Thus, after finishing speaking about Jia Shu''s rule violations in the "Yin Caimei" case, he began to recount the various rumors about Jia Shu in the department.


    Brutally killing suspects, secretly executing investigators, illegally arresting officials... he piled every true or false accusation before Tang Feifei.


    After all, Qiu Tu''s primary goal was just to drag Tang Feifei into the fray, to divert attention and share the fire.


    So, all he needed was to imbue Tang Feifei with the image of Jia Shu as someone "riddled with scandal and filth," influencing Tang Feifei''s judgment.


    As to whether he could really take down Jia Shu, he didn''t care.


    Taking him down would be great, but if not, he would not be at a loss.


    So, under the barrage of Qiu Tu''s descriptions, under the dual debuffs of alcohol and the Mandragora Love Drug, Tang Feifei was indeed slowly "brainwashed" by Qiu Tu.


    Although her aloof personality kept her from denouncing Jia Shu like Qiu Tu, her deep eyes indicated that the image of Jia Shu had taken form.


    However, people who could become Bureau Chiefs certainly had skills. So even under the influence of alcohol and the Mandragora Love Drug, Tang Feifei managed to maintain some rationality.


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s explanations, she pondered for a moment and still said, "Qiu Tu, I would really like to help you."


    "But... the Yin Caimei case is indeed very complex."


    "In such an unclear situation, even I wouldn''t dare to take action rashly."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, hesitated, then finally touched the Lucky Joker Card in his pocket and said tentatively, "What if it''s not just... you?"


    As Qiu Tu uttered these words, he suddenly felt an overwhelming desire to confess: as if he was being guided to lay all his plans bare and come to an agreement with Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback,


    ''Is this Luck Guidance?''


    ''So... is this telling me the timing is right? To reveal the Security Department and ask for the list?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu once again took a step forward and probed, "Actually... the Security Department is very interested in this case as well..."

 Chapter 118 - 101: Liu Fuping, You Go Out First (7k)_2

    Qiu Tu''s voice was very light, but it jolted Tang Feifei awake from her somewhat hazy gaze.


    Her eyes widened, and she looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of disbelief.


    At the same time, Qiu Tu also suddenly felt as if a mysterious and powerful force had descended upon him, as if it were going to crush him.


    Qiu Tu struggled to maintain his composure, and quietly looked back at Tang Feifei.


    The two of them locked eyes like this, one second, two seconds, three seconds¡­


    The atmosphere at the dinner table seemed to have frozen.


    Just like that, after staring at each other for a good four or five seconds, a smile suddenly appeared on Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face.


    By now, there was not a trace of confusion in her eyes, only the utmost rationality.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with interest and said, "I didn''t expect this... Chief Qiu really has some tricks up his sleeve."


    With a reminiscent look in her eyes, she then carefully said, "If I''m not mistaken, from the very start of our conversation, you''ve been deliberately leading the topic¡­"


    "First, you tell me about a feasible target, to arouse my interest; then you create a crisis for me, letting me realize that if I continue to allow Yan Chen and Jia Shu to have their way, my future will be even more difficult; and finally, you throw Jia Shu''s weak points at me, letting me know where to start!"


    "So, when I go back tonight, I just need to do a simple investigation to find that everything is under control, and then I''ll take action."


    "As for you¡­ you''re just drunkenly complaining about a few things. Whether this matter succeeds or not has nothing to do with you."


    "You''re still the darling favorite of Yan Chen and Jia Shu!"


    "What a brilliant stroke of using someone else''s hand to kill! Brilliant!"


    By the end, Tang Feifei even gave a light round of applause.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu''s heart lurched: Damn it... Is the [Lucky Joker Card] some kind of counterfeit treasure?! S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was supposed to guide me in what to say, but after I spoke out, it ended up alerting Tang Feifei?!


    This is screwing me over!


    Could it be... that in order to extract the name list, what I need is to showcase myself and then attract Tang Feifei?


    Can this really work?


    While pondering the feasibility of this idea, Qiu Tu''s brain raced as he looked for countermeasures.


    After a moment, he had made up his mind.


    He simply stopped pretending; his eyes were no longer hazy, his body no longer swayed. He wiped his face, sat up straight with a smile, and looked at Tang Feifei, praising, "Director Tang is really remarkable."


    "All my little tricks have been seen through by you."


    If it was only that Tang Feifei was bluffing Qiu Tu just now and hadn''t been 100% sure of the truth, now she truly believed she had been led by the nose by Qiu Tu since the moment she sat down at the table.


    In that instant, she felt both the shameful irritation of being played by Qiu Tu and a strong desire to "hunt"!


    Her whole demeanor surged with energy, like a female leopard that has spotted especially interesting prey!


    She looked at Qiu Tu with great interest, her eyes burning with a heat that almost seemed to spill over, "So... Chief Qiu has actually been dissatisfied with Yan Chen and Jia Shu for a while now?"


    Qiu Tu quickly waved his hands, pretending to be scared, and said, "Director Tang, that''s slander!"


    "I never said such things!"


    Afterward, Qiu Tu''s expression changed, and he said with a smile, "I just don''t like my fate being in the hands of others, that''s all."


    He paused, then answered Tang Feifei using her words, "And as you said at the beginning: The moment they handed the Yin Caimei case over to me, they had actually already given up on me..."


    "Though I''m unwilling to betray them, but... it''s always fine to protect myself a little, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s rhetorical question, the interest in Tang Feifei''s eyes grew even greater, and she asked, "So... have you switched sides to the Security Department?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "Not at all."


    "It''s just a simple collaboration."


    Qiu Tu said seriously, "The Security Department is interested in the Yin Caimei case, and I needed someone to share the pressure."


    "So, it was a perfect match for both sides."


    "As for... how I got connected with the Security Department."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei, "It was Minister Jia who took the initiative to connect me; he even taught me how to gain the trust of the Security Department."


    "I had contact with the Security Department before, so he wanted me to be a double agent, to gather intelligence from them."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei frowned slightly, obviously not expecting such a scenario.


    She didn''t suspect Qiu Tu of lying to her: there wasn''t much value in hiding such a matter. Because whether it was Jia Shu who connected him or not, the fact that Qiu Tu was playing both sides was indisputable.


    So, Tang Feifei teased, "So, would you say that Jia Shu tripped himself up?"


    Qiu Tu drank his liquor and said with a smile, "You could say that."


    Tang Feifei looked at him, just gazing, and after a moment, the corners of her mouth lifted slightly, and she gestured with her hand, "Tell me your plan."


    "What do you intend to do?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate, and he said earnestly, "I don''t have a plan. I just... want to proceed with this case, to see those insiders get the punishment they deserve!"


    "Since my power is too weak, I can''t solve this case alone. So I will unite more people, to tackle this case together!"


    Now that it had come to this, Qiu Tu didn''t hide anything anymore.


    He picked up three glass cups, placed them on the table, and then said seriously, "These three glass cups represent the possible three accomplices in this case and their corresponding resistance."


    He picked up the first glass, "This is Vice President Tian and the forces behind him."


    Qiu Tu said, "Since I am constrained by Jia Shu, I can''t investigate this direction. But if the Security Department is interested, then I will leave it to them to investigate."


    Qiu Tu picked up the second glass cup, "This is Jia Shu. He''s my superior, and I can''t investigate him either."


    Qiu Tu placed this glass cup in front of Tang Feifei, "Therefore, I''ve come to you, hoping you will deal with or control him."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu picked up the third glass cup, gesturing, "This is... the real criminal in this case."


    "As long as both of you achieve results, or draw enough energy from the other two parties, then I can take him down naturally!"


    Finishing his point, Qiu Tu stacked the three glass cups on top of each other, "And if things go well, if the three of us don''t hold each other back, then capturing them all isn''t a dream!"


    After that, Qiu Tu picked up the three glass cups and smashed them to the ground!


    With a "smash!" the glasses broke upon impact, and shards scattered all over the floor!


    Liu Fuping, who had been confused by the sudden change of events, finally came to her senses. She covered her mouth with her hands, looking at the shattered glass on the floor with a pained expression, even forgetting to continue studying.


    At this moment, Tang Feifei''s gaze became even more intense!


    She looked at Qiu Tu, feeling more and more that he suited her tastes!


    It was as if all the blood in her body began to boil, causing her eyes to sparkle with an orange light!


    She gazed into Qiu Tu''s eyes, speaking resolutely, "State your conditions. Besides wanting to cooperate, you must also want something from me, right?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked straight into Tang Feifei''s eyes and said decisively, "I want Yan Chen''s spy list in the military, or part of it."


    "This is a foundation for my cooperation with the Security Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s gaze narrowed slightly.


    Her brows furrowed.


    After a moment, as if she had thought of something, she asked tentatively, "Is it because Jia Shu wants to clear out the military spies? So, the military wants to make a trade?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Tang Feifei smiled; her orange eyes glowed slightly, "I can agree to that."


    "But... I have an additional condition."


    Having said that, she didn''t wait for Qiu Tu to speak, but suddenly said to Liu Fuping, "Fuping, go out."


    Liu Fuping, still upset about the glass, heard this, paused for a moment, then looked at Tang Feifei and... was filled with question marks: ??


    -----


    Starting tomorrow night, the release rate will increase, with 10,000 characters every day. The better the performance, the longer the spree of releases, so please subscribe more! Many thanks!

 Chapter 119 - 102: 43 out of 108 Ways to Enhance Affection (Subscribe!)

    Watching Tang Feifei''s resolute expression, Liu Fuping felt a bit dazed.


    She really felt like she couldn''t understand the situation tonight.


    She briefly recalled:


    After Qiu Tu came out of the bathroom, he was as stable as ever.


    Whether it was getting closer to Tang Feifei or throwing out Jia Shu''s handle, he did it perfectly.


    The whole topic was gradually taken back under Qiu Tu''s control.


    And... she wasn''t sure if it was an illusion.


    At that time, Liu Fuping always felt that after coming out of the bathroom, Qiu Tu seemed to possess a special charm.


    That charm was both strong and enchanting, it even made her somewhat distracted from learning, only wanting to squeeze her legs together, her delicate body slightly twisting....


    So, in her spare time, she took a glance at Tang Feifei. To her surprise, Tang Feifei, who was usually indifferent to men, also seemed a bit off.


    This sudden realization while she was still perplexed made her heart skip a beat: she remembered the romantic incident that happened between her and Qiu Tu that day.


    Although that day Qiu Tu denied that he had done anything, and Liu Fuping indeed had no evidence. But a woman''s intuition was telling Liu Fuping that there was something wrong that day....


    Therefore, when that familiar feeling emerged again, Liu Fuping suddenly had an alarming thought:


    Qiu Tu wouldn''t have used that method again tonight, and even used it on Tang Feifei, would he?


    At that thought, Liu Fuping was startled: This... What to do?


    She wasn''t feeling sorry for Tang Feifei, but worried about Qiu Tu.


    Although Tang Feifei was a woman, she was quite strong.


    As a woman herself, barely enduring it, she couldn''t handle it.


    Qiu Tu... don''t get screwed by Mu Zhai!


    However, before Liu Fuping could think of a way to save Qiu Tu, the situation took a sudden and drastic turn.


    First, Tang Feifei suddenly sobered up and discovered Qiu Tu''s "conspiracy"; then Qiu Tu tore off the facade, actually admitting to the whole plan!


    Subsequently, Qiu Tu''s honesty actually stabilized the situation?


    And Tang Feifei grew more interested in Qiu Tu?


    Truth be told, Liu Fuping, who was really worried that the two would start fighting, was completely dumbfounded at that moment.


    Even when Qiu Tu smashed that 300 Copper Yuan glass and she was kicked out of her own home by Tang Feifei, she was all but dazed....


    Putting on a coat, standing at her own doorstep, Liu Fuping hugged her chest and stamped her foot, feeling.... What is all this about!


    That was obviously her own home! Why was she kicked out?


    And... why is there always a feeling of being cuckolded right to her face!


    Liu Fuping felt all messed up inside....


    Especially when thinking about how delectable Qiu Tu looked tonight, it annoyed her even more.


    She was the first one there! How did it end up like this?!


    Thinking so, Liu Fuping anxiously paced a few steps at the door, then she looked left and right to make sure no one had noticed her, after which she gently pressed her ear against the door, trying to listen to the movement inside.


    Two seconds later....


    Liu Fuping had never hated the quality of her apartment building more! The soundproofing was just too good!


    Damn it!


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    After Liu Fuping was driven away, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu with an expression full of interest.


    Possibly because of the alcohol, or maybe the effect of the "Mandragora Love Drug" was still there, her amber eyes were once again a bit hazy....


    "Qiu Tu. If... you were to score me, what would you give me?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu sized her up and down.


    There was no denying, Tang Feifei was a very energetic woman.


    Although her looks could only be considered slightly above average, the unique wildness she carried, her healthy wheatish complexion, and that queenly aura were all different from ordinary women''s beauty.


    So Qiu Tu hesitated a bit, then said with a smile, "9 points."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s lips curved into a smile, ready to mock Qiu Tu for being unoriginal.


    Although her sexual orientation was different, being in a high position and good-looking, she wasn''t short of men flattering her, so she had seen plenty of men''s routines:


    10 points seemed insincere, below 8 points was likely to offend a strong woman like her.


    Therefore, 9 points was just right, as there was no perfect woman, and... it could naturally lead into the next topic.


    But before she could voice her mockery, Qiu Tu added with a grin, "Out of 100 points."


    At that moment, Tang Feifei first froze, then her lips curled fiercely upward.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a smile, the danger flickering in her amber pupils, "Really? Then what does Chief Qiu think I''m missing in those 91 points?"


    Qiu Tu actually took it seriously and went on to evaluate her. He touched his chin, looking her up and down, "Breasts not big enough, waist not slim enough, legs...passable."


    "The aura is a bit too harsh and assertive, lacking the gentle flow of a woman."


    "Your speech is cold, lacking a bit of charm."


    "So... Commander, I really can''t give you a high score."


    [108 Ways to Enhance Affection] No. 43: Never satisfy a woman completely; timely withdrawal will make her more insatiable for you.


    And when you can "control" her emotions, you can also "control" her body....


    ps: This move works especially well on [Action-Oriented Persons] and [Rational Planners].


    Indeed, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s bold declaration, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but laugh in exasperation.


    The strong-willed woman, catalyzed by alcohol and the [Mandragora Love Drug], suddenly stood up, then she gripped her uniform with both hands and yanked it open on both sides with force.


    There was a series of "snap snap!" sounds as silver buttons popped off and her uniform was ripped open straight across! sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She wasn''t wearing anything underneath, so what appeared before Qiu Tu was a streamlined, slender waist and a chest bound by white straps.


    Possibly due to regular exercise, her waist was tight enough to grasp, even her navel was vertical, and her lower abdomen featured smooth mermaid lines.


    Moving upwards, a pair of bulging breasts tightly wrapped in many layers of white straps stood out in stark contrast to her slender waist!


    Even without removing the bindings, it was clear that her size was not small; she could even compare with the beautiful Liu Fuping.


    Qiu Tu admitted that the visual impact at that moment truly shocked him.


    For a moment, he even began to doubt his past aesthetic preference: Was wild beauty really not as good as gentleness like water?


    Shouldn''t men and women both seek health?


    Before he could figure it out, something even more shocking continued.


    Before he could react, Tang Feifei, with her clothes flung open, strode toward him.


    Then she leaned down, looking down at Qiu Tu from above, and asked in a cold voice, "What''s the matter, Chief Qiu, think you got your evaluation wrong?"


    Qiu Tu looked up; the bulging white straps protruded in front of him, and a light floral scent wafted toward him.


    Qiu Tu knew he couldn''t show weakness at this time...


    So, suppressing the pounding in his heart, he raised his hand and snapped his finger against one of the bulging white straps.


    The touch was soft, bouncy, and even quivered.


    Tang Feifei was stunned by Qiu Tu''s brazen action. Clearly, no one had ever dared to do such a thing to her!


    So she looked at Qiu Tu in disbelief.


    After snapping the strap, Qiu Tu realized he might have gone a bit too far, but the sensation on his fingertips still made him feel it was worth it.


    He leaned back slightly, stepping out of the shadow cast by the white straps, and with a smile at the corner of his mouth, he looked at Tang Feifei and said, "Director, I wonder if the Sanctuary has a saying."


    "Play with fire, wet the bed."


    "Hehe...." Tang Feifei found it amusing, "What, are you implying that someone my age would still wet the bed?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes narrowed slightly, full of innuendo, "Do you think adults don''t wet the bed? When adults do it, it can be far more exaggerated~~"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei paused for a moment.


    But, after all, she was a woman who had rubbed shoulders with Liu Fuping and had seen certain scenes, so after a moment''s hesitation, she immediately caught the excessively fast undertone of his words.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a teasing smile, her amber eyes growing brighter.


    "Chief Qiu, it''s not certain yet who will wet the bed."


    "After all.... I''m really getting more interested in you...."


    Having said that, she sat on the desk in front of Qiu Tu without bothering to fix her clothes, legs apart in a domineering posture, and looking down at him, she asked coldly, "Don''t you want the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau in the Security Department?"


    "I can give it to you."


    After speaking, to show her sincerity, she directly grabbed a pen and paper from the desk and began to write names on it swiftly.


    Soon, a dozen names were on the list.


    "I''m in charge of training affairs in the bureau. After careful attention, I have some guesses and understanding of the choices for spies."


    "Here is the departmental list; it should be enough for you to trade with."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took the list and read through it swiftly. Names, genders, and departments were all clearly displayed.


    The highest-ranked spy on the list had risen to the position of a lieutenant and the platoon deputy leader, while the lowest were still ordinary soldiers.


    Although the names were unfamiliar to him, he believed Tang Feifei probably wasn''t deceiving him, given the detail and verifiability of the list.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief.


    Although the process was a bit convoluted, the result turned out to be good eventually.


    It seems the [Lucky Joker Card] is still useful, right?


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu pocketed the list and looked up at Tang Feifei with a smile, "Very good. Now, Director Tang, please state your terms."


    Since Qiu Tu began checking the list, Tang Feifei had been watching him.


    Seeing Qiu Tu looking over, she smiled with delight and said without any hesitation,


    "My condition is that you have to become my man!"


    Qiu Tu was stunned for a second, then without hesitation, he nodded, "Okay, no problem."


    Tang Feifei might not have expected Qiu Tu to agree so readily; she hesitated for a moment and clarified, "I mean... as in a man, my man."


    Qiu Tu continued to nod nonchalantly, "Alright."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu even began to undo the buttons on his own shirt, "Would you like to inspect the goods first?"


    ----


    Today''s update is 12,000 words! Starting tomorrow, updates of 10,000 words every day, and if the performance is good, I will continue with daily 10,000 words!


    New book aiming for the Monthly Ticket Chart, I seek your Monthly Tickets! My thanks!

 Chapter 120 - 103: Toying with the Bureau Chief (Looking for Monthly Tickets!)

    While unbuttoning his shirt, Qiu Tu still managed to say to Tang Feifei, with a smile, "Director Tang really overestimated her own charm."


    "You have a great figure and you''re not bad looking either. You''re also my immediate superior."


    "Being able to weather several storms with you, how could I consider that a condition? It''s clearly something one could only wish for!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu undid his upper garment, revealing his well-built six-pack abs. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, suddenly feeling her interest fade significantly.


    At that moment, she was a bit confused about her own thoughts.


    The prey she had desired was right in front of her, even laying flat, ready for her to do as she pleased, so why did she suddenly find it tasteless?


    Thinking thus, the amber glow in her eyes slowly vanished, and her facial expression gradually returned to indifference.


    Then she got off the table and coldly stopped Qiu Tu''s movements, "That won''t be necessary, I''ll call you when I need you."


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu, as if he had anticipated it, smiled mildly, "Very well. I await Director Tang''s ''summons'' at any time."


    While saying that, he continued to fasten his buttons and headed towards the door.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s expression, Tang Feifei instinctively felt that something was amiss... but she couldn''t pinpoint what it was.


    She hesitated, wanting to call out to Qiu Tu, but then she felt that being so fickle was meaningless, so she eventually stopped herself.


    At the door, upon opening it, Liu Fuping staggered and fell in, landing right into Qiu Tu''s arms ¨C obviously, this beautiful lady had been eavesdropping at the door just a moment ago.


    Still halfway through buttoning his shirt and not fully dressed, Qiu Tu solidly received Liu Fuping''s softness.


    Feeling Qiu Tu''s strong body and smelling that intense masculine scent, Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red.


    Her heart felt ticklish, as if it had been scratched by something, giving her a strange sensation....


    But she knew that now was not the time to think about such frivolous matters, so she quickly brushed her hair back, coloring her face red as she stepped out of Qiu Tu''s embrace, and whispered a soft "Thank you, sir."


    Standing by the dining table, Tang Feifei watched the two interact with a slightly narrowed gaze, feeling even more perplexed.


    But before she had time to ponder, Liu Fuping, who had straightened up, pointed at the two with open shirts, her face a picture of surprise, "You...you guys...."


    After that, she covered her mouth to stifle a giggle, "Isn''t this a bit too fast?"


    Tang Feifei: .....


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Is Qiu Tu the kind of person who lets himself be taken advantage of?


    Of course not.


    So, upon hearing this, he retorted with a smile, "Fast or not, Sister Liu would know if she tried, right? Why bother with trying to goad me here?"


    Liu Fuping''s face turned red, and she spat at Qiu Tu, "You''re so improper!"


    After that, she shook off Qiu Tu''s hand and walked back to the dining table with a flirtatious sway of her hips, smiling all the while.


    After that, things simplified. With all three of them calmed down, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei discussed the details of their cooperation at length.


    Thanks to Qiu Tu''s prior groundwork, they quickly reached a consensus.


    The Security Department would take charge of investigating Vice President Tian''s collusion with United Front, while also dealing with the forces and support behind Tian.


    Tang Feifei would apply for an investigation to the Sanctuary on the grounds of Jia Shu''s dereliction of duty and silencing a critical suspect, and restrict Jia Shu''s actions.


    Qiu Tu would pursue the real culprit behind the case and mediate between all sides.


    All parties would start preparations after returning home tonight, and then stage a concentrated operation in the next two days.


    Soon after the cooperation was settled, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei shook hands and then left Liu Fuping''s house.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Tang Feifei''s brows were tightly furrowed, as if grappling with an unfathomable dilemma.


    Liu Fuping, after seeing off Qiu Tu, came back to find Tang Feifei looking just like that.


    She thought Tang Feifei was jealous because of the few jokes Qiu Tu had made with her that day, so she slinked up to Tang Feifei, wrapping her arms around her, and asked in a sweet voice, "What''s the matter? Director? Not happy?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei glanced sideways at Liu Fuping, and then asked, "What do you think of Qiu Tu as a person?"


    Liu Fuping thought for a moment, resting her chin on her hand, and gave a fairly balanced assessment, "I think Chief Qiu is not a bad guy. Even though he commonly throws around flirty comments, he actually behaves in quite a measured way."


    "Also, he is protective of his subordinates and has some....."


    Tang Feifei didn''t hear what Liu Fuping said after that. Liu Fuping''s first statement struck her like lightning across the sky of her thoughts!


    ''Commonly throws around flirty comments, but behaves in quite a measured way?!''


    At that moment, Tang Feifei suddenly realized what had been off about her impression!


    Right, upon reflecting on her past exchanges with Qiu Tu. It was clear that Qiu Tu was a master of understanding human nature.


    Whether it was guiding conversations or gauging people''s hearts, he had considerable skill.


    How could such a person fail to see through her little ploy just now?!


    He could''ve just been a bit more persistent, or feigned reluctance, and she would have gone along with his desire, and shared a passionate encounter with him!


    Instead, he purposely agreed and even proactively began to undress!


    This was a clear indication that he had seen through her, but he didn''t actually want things to escalate, so he was intentionally refusing her!


    With this realization, everything that had happened just then fell into place for Tang Feifei!


    No wonder Qiu Tu, after helping her cool down, had gone to open the door for Liu Fuping ¨C to prevent her from losing control again and potentially forcing herself on him, thus bringing in a third party to control the situation.


    No wonder Qiu Tu was joking in such an unseemly way with Liu Fuping ¨C to help cool her down again and continue to reinforce his "persona"!


    ''Interesting... very interesting!''


    Tang Feifei, having figured everything out, couldn''t help but curve her lips into a smile, her pupils also slowly shifting back to a clear amber.


    Perhaps because the image of Qiu Tu that lingered in her mind was too enticing, she once again felt like she had discovered delectable prey!


    She felt that Qiu Tu was simply the most interesting man... no, person¡ªincluding women¡ªshe had ever met, and he suited her tastes best.....


    Since her birth up to now, she had never met such an intriguing man!


    She... was truly aroused with the desire to hunt!


    At that moment... Liu Fuping also noticed the change in Tang Feifei''s pupils, knowing that this was a sign that appeared after Tang Feifei was emotionally stirred.


    So, she gently leaned in close to Tang Feifei, whispering softly into her ear, "Stay with me tonight?"


    Tang Feifei, hearing this, snapped back to reality.


    A brilliant smile suddenly broke across her wheat-colored face, then she declared firmly, "No!"


    "I need to go back and study the cooperation with Qiu Tu first!"


    Having said that, she pushed Liu Fuping aside, fastened the buttons of her uniform, and, wearing her riding boots, took long strides to leave Liu Fuping''s home.


    Staring blankly at Tang Feifei''s retreating figure, filled with both wildness and beauty, Liu Fuping''s mouth hung open, stunned for several seconds.


    Only when the door closed did Liu Fuping gradually come back to her senses.


    What just happened?


    Was she rejected?


    Liu Fuping was a bit incredulous.


    And thinking back on what Tang Feifei had just said, she felt like... like she was the unnamed character in a movie for three, without a name of her own!


    Moreover....


    Looking at the closed door, she was somewhat frantic:


    Qiu Tu was someone she had met first! And she was the first to flirt with him!


    Tang Feifei was her woman! And they had spent the most time together!


    How, how... now she was the only one left?!


    What was going on! The world changed too fast, didn''t it?!


    .....


    At the same time, having left Liu Fuping''s place, Qiu Tu drove while recalling the sharp exchange he had with Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei wasn''t wrong, he had indeed figured out her personality, so he had indeed retreated in order to advance, deliberately rejecting Tang Feifei.


    There were two reasons:


    First was... the effects of the Mandragora Love Drug were about to end.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if any accidents would occur if they were in the middle of something and the effects of the Cataclysmic Potion suddenly wore off.


    Therefore, he simply rejected Tang Feifei early on, letting her mistakenly believe it was her "compliant" behavior that made her lose interest, thereby covering up the process of the Mandragora Love Drug''s effects wearing off.


    Second was... for a strong, wild woman like Tang Feifei.


    Only by keeping her interested, then disappointed, then interested again, and disappointed again, constantly swinging her emotions, could she fall deeper and deeper!


    The old saying goes: A wife is not as good as a concubine, a concubine is not as good as a secret lover, and a secret lover is not as good as one you cannot have....


    Only by constant pull and release, reeling in and letting out, can one truly control such a wild and strong woman!


    While silently summarizing his strategy for dealing with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu also took out a special Communicator from the Security Department, and made a call to Qin Shuman.


    When the call connected, Qiu Tu asked concisely while driving, "Where are you? I need to see you for something."


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman reported a room number without any hesitation: Milan Grand Hotel, room 401.


    The sons and daughters of the covert United Front always acted directly, without dragging their feet.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu stepped on the accelerator towards the Milan Grand Hotel.


    The night lights of Xinjie City were dim, and the streets were sparsely populated, so it only took Qiu Tu a little over twenty minutes to reach the Milan Grand Hotel.


    After parking his car, he went up to the floor indicated by Qin Shuman''s room number and took the elevator in silence.


    Standing in front of room 401, Qiu Tu prepared to knock, but before his hand could touch the door, it swung open on its own.


    Qin Shuman stood at the doorway with hands behind her back, smiling charmingly.


    Today, she was using the body of Yan Chen''s mistress, "Qin Shuman."


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman smiled and said, "I actually needed to see you too, I didn''t expect our minds to be so in sync~"


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, slammed the door shut with a "bang!" and then swept Qin Shuman up into his arms and charged into the room.


    Qin Shuman was startled, her hands patting Qiu Tu''s back while she cried out frantically, "Wait, wait a minute!"


    Just like the first time something happened between them, Qiu Tu threw her onto the bed and said in a deep voice, "I can''t wait."....


    .....


    ...


    40 minutes later.


    Qiu Tu, smoking a cigarette and embracing Qin Shuman, asked, "You said you had something to discuss? What is it?"


    -------

 Chapter 121 - 104: My Waist is Almost Broken (Seeking Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, who felt as limp as water in his arms, felt her entire world wasn''t right anymore.


    What kind of good person doesn''t say a word and starts with a 40-minute exercise up front!


    After such a long exercise, how could she have any energy left to talk to him about things!


    So tiring!


    Thinking like this, inexplicably, Qin Shuman started to get a little petulant like a young girl. She turned around, with her back to Qiu Tu, refusing to pay him any attention.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t annoyed. He reached out and touched her smooth back, pinching here, tapping there.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu seemed to discover something astonishing, and exclaimed in surprise, "Eh? How come you''re back in ''Qin Shuman''s'' body again?"


    "Has the Treasure''s effect worn off, or did you do it on purpose?"


    After he spoke, he paused, then added, "Can you still return to ''Rain Butterfly''s'' body like this?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s series of questions, Qin Shuman sat up angrily, saying irritably, "That''s exactly what I wanted to talk to you about!"


    After speaking, Qin Shuman also felt like she was a bit whiny.


    So she calmed herself down and regained her composure as the head of the Investigation Department. Only then did she touch the body she was in now and said, "Ever since the day you forcefully disabled my ability, I''ve discovered something magical."


    "Even when my soul leaves, ''Qin Shuman''s'' body astonishingly doesn''t decay, doesn''t die."


    "I found this phenomenon very interesting, so I tried soaking her in nutrient fluid, or feeding her liquid food, then monitoring her with equipment."


    "As a result, I found that this body has been maintaining vital signs all along."


    "It''s like an empty shell without a soul, but all the body parts are autonomously functioning!"


    As she said this, Qin Shuman was clearly a bit excited.


    She said, "So, I had a bold idea. What if I could use her as my second body for a long time!"


    "That''s why tonight I tried to possess this body again."


    "Sure enough, it was just as I expected. I''ve become ''Qin Shuman'' again. Moreover... this time, I can switch bodies freely and don''t need you to disable my ability anymore." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu sat up in surprise.


    Qin Shuman''s discovery was crucial.


    If ''Qin Shuman''s'' body is an empty shell without a soul that can be occupied by a new soul or exists independently of one...


    Then... could ''Qiu Tu''s'' body be the same?


    And could it be because of this that Qiu Tu was able to traverse here and enter this body?!


    Then the question arises.


    What exactly did "Qiu Tu" and "Qin Shuman" experience that day to create such weird shells that could exist separately from their souls?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "Have you figured out what happened the day we... possessed?"


    Qin Shuman heard this and shook her head slightly.


    She said, "These past few days, I''ve also sent people to search for clues. But... there''s nothing noteworthy."


    She paused for a moment before adding, "So... I''m now suspecting that what happened to us that day might not be related to the physical world."


    "It could be related to the non-physical realm."


    As she spoke, she pointed upwards, "It''s very possible that some strange change occurred in the non-physical realm that day, affecting us, which led to this situation."


    ''Some strange change in the non-physical world?''


    Qiu Tu repeated Qin Shuman''s words in his heart, and for some reason, thought of the ''God'' that the suit man had mentioned.


    Could it have something to do with that ''God''?


    Somehow... Qiu Tu always felt that Xinjie City seemed to be in the midst of some massive storm vortex...


    After discussing Qin Shuman''s matter, Qin Shuman naturally asked Qiu Tu what he wanted with her.


    Qiu Tu didn''t hide anything, proudly taking out the list from his pocket with the names of the spies in the military for the Investigation Bureau.


    Seeing this detailed list, Qin Shuman was thrilled!


    The biggest pressures for Qin Shuman recently were two things: one was to solve the "Yin Caimei case" for Qiu Tu. The other was... the safety of the spies planted by the Security Department within the Investigation Bureau.


    She was still working on the first issue, and the second... she had been trying hard but to no avail! She never expected Qiu Tu to have solved it for her!


    With this resolution, where could Qin Shuman find any reason to be upset, proceeding to reward Qiu Tu heartily...


    [7 days (The time to close the Yin Caimei case)]


    [4 days (The danger lurking in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next day was the weekend, no work.


    It was the day Qiu Tu and Chief Huang of the Logistics Equipment Department had arranged to go to the horse racing club at the Feicui City Residence.


    Early in the morning, Qiu Tu returned home to his small abode on Old Alley Street, satisfied.


    When he got home, Shen Lingshuang was already awake, washing clothes.


    When she heard Qiu Tu return, she came out of the bathroom, with panda eyes glaring at Qiu Tu, muttering bitterly, "You dog of a man... not coming home all night. You must have been out fooling around..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled faintly as he changed into his casual clothes and casually retorted, "That''s slander, you know!"


    "I definitely didn''t go out fooling around."


    "A friend''s cat had two kittens, and she asked me to help take care of them. But who knew, when I got to her place, she ended up washing my shoes and laundering my clothes."


    "I couldn''t very well go home naked, could I?"


    "So I had no choice but to wait for my clothes to dry before coming back!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s story that didn''t have a shred of credibility, Shen Lingshuang was going crazy, "You''re trying to fool a ghost here!"


    "Go out on the street and ask anyone you drag in; who would believe that?"


    "I believe..." As they were talking, a large, simple-looking head popped in from the door.


    It was none other than Ah-Tai.


    Seeing the two of them, he flashed a toothy grin, then said, "Brother Tu really is such a kind-hearted person."


    "I remember one time when I was a kid, the wife of some big shot had a plumbing issue at home, and he was called to help. It took him all night to fix it, too."


    Shen Lingshuang: ??


    Is this really a defense?!


    By that time, Qiu Tu had changed into his clothes, and with a laugh, he patted Shen Lingshuang on the head, picked up her face, and kissed it, before leaving the house arm-in-arm with Ah-Tai.


    All that was left was Shen Lingshuang with a flushed face, bubbles popping over her head... she had completely forgotten to be angry...


    Easy-peasy!


    Having left the house and arrived at his car, Qiu Tu''s core team members: Eagle, Ah-Kun, several confidants from the Political Department: Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and even Fang Ming, with whom he often collaborated, had all arrived.


    These individuals had been briefed extensively over a period of time and knew each other''s identities, so they were all casually smoking and chatting.


    All of them were dressed in uniforms of the Political Department and the Special Service Department, and each was armed with a gun, making the ordinary citizens of Old Alley Street quickly detour to avoid stirring trouble with this fearsome group.


    And yet, this gang of fearsome figures promptly extinguished their cigarettes and greeted Qiu Tu in unison when they saw him approach: "Brother Tu!" "Brother Tu!" "Chief!" "Chief." "Chief Qiu."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and nodded, "Looks like everyone''s here."


    After speaking, he looked around at the group.


    This was the powerful team he had put together over half a month, and they were also key to the success of today''s mission!


    That''s right, after a detailed discussion with Qin Shuman the previous night, Qiu Tu felt... investigating cases and making arrests should be done sooner rather than later.


    Since Yan Chen had already handed over both the "Authorization Letter" and the "Special Arrest Warrant" to him, the best course was to strike with a surprise attack while the news had not yet fully spread!


    Capture Qian Dafu, capture those few transports, capture Vice President Tian, capture Third Brother Qin, capture Director Qin (second house)¡ªand then interrogate them slowly!


    For Vice President Tian, it''s inconvenient for Qiu Tu to take action, no problem. Qin Shuman can do it!


    With the list of spies from the Investigation Bureau inside The military and the leads and intelligence on the connections between the Qin family, Vice President Tian, and the United Front provided by Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman is confident that her boss, Security Department Chief Dai Yukang, would be interested.


    Moreover, compared to the intricate ties between City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and local forces, The military tends to be more independent and autonomous, without the need to look back and forth!


    Thus, The military often represents the last line of defense for the cities in the Planning Area!


    Therefore, those the Investigation Bureau dares not arrest, the Security Department dares to arrest! The cases that Qiu Tu finds challenging, the Security Department can help handle!


    With the backing Qin Shuman gave him, the pressure Tang Feifei withstood from Jia Shu, and the "wrongly given" unlimited authorization from Yan Chen.


    Qiu Tu was brimming with confidence today, determined to turn Xinjie City upside down!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had snapped back to the present, proceeded to distribute today''s plan to Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, and Fang Ming.


    Actually, before calling these few men here, Qiu Tu hadn''t informed them of what he intended to do today.


    So when they saw the arrest orders and various authorization documents personally signed by Qiu Tu, they were all astonished.


    Even Fang Ming, who had witnessed some grand scenes with his elders, looked at Qiu Tu with a bewildered face, and hesitatingly asked, "Arrest Director Qin? Third Master Qin? And even a few big businessmen?"


    "Chief Qiu, won''t this cause too much of a fuss?"


    At this, he paused, then continued, "Moreover... that is the Deputy Division Chief after all."


    "Although the ''Special Arrest Warrant'' allows for the arrest of anyone below Director level."


    "But... he''s still one of us from the Investigation Bureau, should we not check with the higher-ups first?"


    Hearing Fang Ming''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and patted him on the shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry, I have everything arranged."


    "Just follow the plan and make the arrest, bet he''ll even thank you when you slap on the handcuffs."


    Fang Ming: ??


    For a moment, Fang Ming almost thought he had misheard.


    He was supposed to arrest Director Qin and Director Qin would actually thank him?


    Had he gone mad, or had Qiu Tu lost his mind?


    For a while, Fang Ming felt utterly confused.


    But compared with Fang Ming, who wasn''t yet one of the confidants, the rest of the men were far more composed.


    Individuals like Eagle and Ah-Kun, with loyalty levels exceeding 90 points, listened to whatever Qiu Tu said without a second thought.


    And for Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu, the new batch of confidants whose loyalty had skyrocketed to around 70.


    -------


    This chapter was blocked, and I''ve edited it out. Then I put the rest of it in the comment of this chapter... Everyone can check it out in the comment. Also, I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 122 - 105 High Society (Seeking Subscriptions 1w2!)

    Although they were not as blindly loyal as the former, but... after having witnessed Qiu Tu''s capability to manipulate political situations and wield power within the Political Department, they were more inclined to trust Qiu Tu even if they harbored a hint of doubt.


    Only Ah-Tai... well, he was just plain naive.


    If it weren''t for the sake of earning him some merit, and the fact that he was now sticking to Fang Ming like glue ¡ª to the point where Fang Ming couldn''t shake him off while working ¡ª Qiu Tu would not have wanted to bring him along today.


    So, after Qiu Tu had assigned their tasks, he split the seven people into several teams and gathered the personnel in preparation to set off.


    In order to keep the entire plan confidential, Qiu Tu did not even allow them to summon personnel using official commands but instead used team building and social events as cover.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had thoroughly calculated the manpower required for the entire capture plan the night before. The combination of the investigation team and Fang Ming''s squad, consisting of over thirty agents, was more than sufficient.


    After all, most of those caught by the Political Department were merely ordinary businessmen. If they approached with weapons and arrest warrants, the targets wouldn''t oppose the entire Sanctuary system unless they wished to resist; otherwise, they could only comply meekly.


    The reason for assembling Fang Ming''s squad was merely to guard against the private armed forces of powerful and influential families like the Qin Family¡­


    After arranging everything and watching these confidants scatter in all directions, Qiu Tu drove off towards Emerald Fort while humming a tune.


    To deceive the enemy, Qiu Tu would spend the entire day today within Emerald Fort.


    He could only begrudgingly watch horse races, sing, play sports, rub shoulders with the elite and famous socialites ¡ª indulging in extravagance without a moment''s rest....


    Every time he thought about the hardships of today, Qiu Tu felt unspeakably sad ¡ª so much so that the corners of his mouth curled up.


    ...


    Emerald Fort, also known as the old Xinjie military camp.


    It was originally built by Major General Ye while stationed in Xinjie City as a defense against attacks from the Anti-government Armed Forces.


    The fort encompassed an area of 0.08 square kilometers.


    After the establishment of Xinjie City, when the military moved to a new camp, the old grounds were sold to several big businessmen of the Sanctuary.


    After more than a year of renovation and rebuilding by those businessmen, it had become the largest den of iniquity around Xinjie City and the most fervently sought after social hub for the higher echelons from surrounding cities.


    The place hosted all sorts of legal and above-board entertainment facilities such as a racetrack, an octagon cage, a nightclub, and a casino.


    Qiu Tu had often heard about this famous place but had never been there. Today was his first visit.


    As he drove up to the outskirts of Emerald Fort, Qiu Tu didn''t encounter any inspections ¡ª in a Planning Area, a private car in itself was proof of identity.


    Following the smooth roads around the fort, guided by signs by the roadside, Qiu Tu drove straight into the parking lot of the fort.


    Private cars, scarcely seen on the roads of the Planning Area, filled more than half of the parking lot here. The sight was truly staggering.


    After parking and turning off the ignition, Qiu Tu stepped out of the car only to hear an enthusiastic greeting, "Chief Qiu! Over here! Chief Qiu!"


    Hearing the call, Qiu Tu looked up and saw Chief Huang from Logistics and Equipment walking towards him.


    His face was sporting an even warmer smile than a few days ago. Coming up to Qiu Tu, he gave a hearty pat on Qiu Tu''s arm and joked, "I was beginning to think you wouldn''t make it today."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Why would you say that, Brother Huang? Why would I possibly stand you up when we had an arrangement?" sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Chief Huang squinted with a smile, "Are you still hiding things from me, Younger Brother Qiu?"


    He said in a lower voice, "The news that the Bureau Chief signed your ''Authorization Letter'' and ''Special Arrest Warrant'' has almost spread throughout the bureau~~"


    "Who knew if you might be apprehending people this weekend...."


    As soon as Qiu Tu heard this, he understood immediately why Chief Huang was so enthusiastic today.


    So, it was because he knew that Qiu Tu had the "Imperial Sword" in hand.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also replied smilingly, "You''re joking, Brother. Work is work, relaxation is relaxation."


    "Today is the weekend, how could I possibly be busy with work!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Chief Huang immediately let out a hearty laugh. He patted Qiu Tu and said jokingly, "I''ve long heard from Old Zheng that you hate overtime and always leave on time every day!"


    "Now seeing you, it seems it''s indeed the case!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu was also laughing, Chief Huang changed his tone and said with a chuckle, "But you''re right. Work is work, relaxation is relaxation!"


    "Come on! Let me introduce you to a few friends!"


    As Qiu Tu was there today to blindside the enemy and gather information, he immediately followed up on Chief Huang''s offer, "You can''t just introduce me to a few friends, Brother. You said today you''d show me the world."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chief Huang immediately made an "I understand" expression, "Don''t worry, today I''ll definitely broaden your horizons."


    Qiu Tu''s smile grew wider.


    As the most well-known and central attraction of Emerald Fort, the first place Chief Huang took Qiu Tu was the racetrack.


    The racecourse was built at the heart of the Emerald Fort, or rather, all other facilities were constructed around the racecourse.


    Because the guests were all either rich or noble, this racecourse wasn''t an open-air venue like the ones Qiu Tu remembered from his previous life, but instead, consisted of layer upon layer of enclosed observation decks.


    The observation decks protruded into the racecourse, with one side being the entrance, and the other three sides were 270-degree panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, making it exceptionally spectacular and grand.


    Upon reaching the fourth-floor observation deck, Chief Huang naturally introduced Qiu Tu to the setup, "The whole racecourse has three levels of observation decks, located on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors respectively."


    "The fourth floor, like here, is where staff members like us, deputy staff, lieutenants, captains, and wealthy businessmen watch the horse races."


    "The fifth floor is where the directors, deputy directors, major, lieutenant colonels, and some big businessmen from the Sanctuary visit."


    "As for the topmost... the sixth floor, it''s where those big shots standing at the top of various cities are located."


    "Like the commissioners from City Hall, the Deputy Directors from the Investigation Bureau, and the colonels from the military. Even... those three highest-ranking officials, they all take their seats on the sixth floor."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly upon hearing this, indicating that he understood.


    After introducing the entire situation of the observation decks, Chief Huang led Qiu Tu to the refreshments area to each get a cup of wine, then they quietly sipped and whispered introductions to a few people on the fourth floor who were watching the horse races.


    "That tall, large young man is a captain from the military, surnamed Zhang, currently commanding a battalion."


    "He is a local from Xinjie. When General Ye was stationed in Xinjie, he was one of the first to side with him and helped General Ye eradicate the entire underground forces of Xinjie City."


    "Therefore, when Xinjie City was established, and General Ye reorganized the military, he was also recruited and given key training."


    "However... he''s a bit of a gambler, often losing his entire salary."


    At this point, Chief Huang added in a quiet voice, "So, if he asks you to lend him money, never agree to it."


    Qiu Tu looked deeply at the Captain Zhang mentioned, nodding slightly.


    Seeing this, Chief Huang then pointed to a young woman on the left, "That one is Section Chief Bai from the Household Registration Division of the Civil Affairs Bureau at City Hall."


    "Her father is a commissioner at City Hall, and her husband is a major businessman in Xinjie, mainly in charge of intercity transportation."


    "But I heard it''s been rough recently, with a lot of family wealth lost, which has also weakened her position at City Hall."


    Qiu Tu paused on the young woman for a moment, thinking that her looks were above average, but she had a unique charm.


    Next, Chief Huang briefly introduced Qiu Tu to a few other guests on the fourth floor.


    They were all middle-level officials with the rank of staff member or deputy staff member. Some were from Xinjie City, and some from neighboring cities. At their level, they could be hugely influential within their departments, but here, they were as common as cabbages...


    In the meantime, several people took the elevator past the fourth floor, heading to either the fifth or the sixth floor.


    Astonishingly, there were quite a few acquaintances among them, including the head of the Qin Family, Commissioner Qin Heng, Vice Minister Wen from the Special Service Department, and Director Wang from the Public Security Bureau...


    Even during this time, Qiu Tu spotted Old Bai, Jia Shu, and Tang Feifei dressed in plain clothes.


    When Old Bai realized that Qiu Tu had also come to the Emerald Fort, he was slightly surprised, but the next second he immersed himself back into his character: he coldly ignored Qiu Tu, but just as the elevator doors were about to close, he winked at Qiu Tu.


    As for Jia Shu and Tang Feifei...


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Jia Shu''s face first revealed a hint of surprise, then he quickly resumed his mocking smile, as if pondering over some amusing matter...


    And although Tang Feifei remained stoic from beginning to end, the flickering amber glow returning to her eyes indicated that Qiu Tu had once again become the focus of her attention...


    ''This world is really small...'' Qiu Tu silently reflected to himself, and then Chief Huang dragged him off to meet some friends.


    According to him, there were quite a few people who wanted to meet Qiu Tu today, to get acquainted with the newly risen star at the Investigation Bureau!


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    While Qiu Tu was enjoying life... ah, no, while he was distracting the enemy.


    Ah-Tai, Eagle, and several teams were also fully assembled and began to carry out their plan...


    Since Ah-Tai and Eagle didn''t have arrest authority, the team leader for this operation was Chen Feng.


    The target of the arrest was the most important suspect, the major businessman entangled with the Qin Family: Qian Dafu.


    Arriving near Qian Dafu''s residence, the group began implementing their control plan according to the strategy.


    -----


    The last chapter was blocked... just unblocked.


    Updated with 4 chapters totaling 12,000 words! Requesting Monthly Tickets! Explosive updates during the new book launch, 10,000 words daily! Please vote with a Monthly Ticket and follow the updates every day! Thank you!

 Chapter 123 - 106: Madam, You Wouldnt Want Your Husband... (10k for Monthly Ticket)

    As a locally well-known businessman in Xinjie City, Qian Dafu didn''t have the qualification to live in core villa areas like Longshan Road, but he resided in a nearby, smaller cluster of villas.


    This cluster of small villas was under the influence of Longshan Road, ensuring security and a relatively complete set of public facilities.


    Moreover, with good greening...


    It was especially suitable for concealment.


    At this moment, just outside Qian Dafu''s small villa,


    Chen Feng and Eagle were squatting behind a tree, holding a villa floor plan, discussing the arrangements for the surveillance.


    Chen Feng, "The villa has three floors in total, with front and back doors."


    "There are eight windows on the east and west sides."


    "To prevent the target from escaping, we''d better first position six detectives on each side, and then have three detectives enter through the front door."


    Eagle nodded and replied, "According to intelligence, though Qian Dafu runs a transportation company and maintains a group of thugs and some private armed forces, for convenience, he usually has only two armed bodyguards for personal protection."


    "Three armed detectives entering, six detectives staking out outside, that''s more than enough to disarm the opposition and take Qian Dafu away."


    "Unless Qian Dafu plans to openly oppose the Investigation Bureau, he won''t order his bodyguards to shoot."


    "You''re right, but even if he orders his bodyguards to take action, with my hammer, I can knock him out at any time."


    "Hmm... relying on the hammer might be a bit overconfident, it''s still best to use guns. We can arrange... wait, Brother Ted, when did you get here?!"


    Eagle had initially been earnestly responding to questions, but halfway through, he sensed something was off.


    Turning his head, he discovered Ah-Tai''s simple-minded head had appeared above him and Chen Feng, inconspicuously joining their conversation.


    Hearing Eagle''s question, Ah-Tai excitedly bounced the small hammer in his hand and said, "Oh, I was just a bit bored waiting, so I came over to see if there was anything I could help with!"


    Eagle and Chen Feng exchanged a glance, both feeling a bit helpless.


    Eagle reassured him, "Brother Ted, there''s nothing here that needs your help; what you need to do now is to keep an eye on those detectives from the Special Service Department."


    "After all, they''re not one of us and are not completely trustworthy."


    "So, make absolutely sure they don''t leak any information."


    With understanding dawning on his face, Ah-Tai brandished his small hammer menacingly and declared, "Don''t worry! I''ll keep a close watch on them; they won''t spoil Brother Tu''s big plans!"


    After speaking, he tucked his small hammer at his waist and strode towards the group of Special Service Detectives not far away.


    With his fierce demeanor, he looked quite ready to randomly knock someone out for a bit of fun.


    Therefore, Chen Feng couldn''t help but ask Eagle with a bit of concern, "Is everything really okay?"


    Eagle shook his head, unconcerned, and said, "It''s fine. Brother Ted has always been like this."


    "Don''t worry, he has the charm of being ready to take you down at any moment, yet also being able to mess around with you like a brother."


    As he spoke, the group of Special Service Detectives indeed started jovially horsing around with the grim Ah-Tai, like brothers...


    Chen Feng:....


    ''The people around the boss are never simple indeed....''


    With this thought, Chen Feng shifted his attention back and once again started confirming the capture details with Eagle...


    To ensure not to alarm the prey, Qiu Tu had devised a plan for the groups to make their captures at a coordinated time.


    They were to wait until all targets were controlled before taking action, unless the target posed a risk of fleeing beforehand.


    Therefore, they had plenty of time to get into position.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at Emerald Fort, fourth floor southeast corner of the horse racing grandstand, sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There, Qiu Tu also met the friend mentioned by Chief Huang.


    As expected, they were all medium-ranking officials and wealthy businessmen with power in Xinjie City.


    From the Department of Education, Preparatory and Schooling Section: Section Chief Kong.


    Department of Environment and Sanitation, Public Works Section: Deputy Section Chief Zhuang.


    Department of Commerce and Economic Development, Investment Promotion Section: Deputy Section Chief Yuan.


    From the Investigation Bureau, Public Security Bureau, Security Patrol Section: Section Chief Xin.


    There were also several captains and lieutenants from the military; moreover, wealthy businessmen from sectors such as department stores and food.


    It could be said that every single one of them was a significant figure with the power to make rules within a domain of Xinjie City.


    Among these, the most noteworthy for Qiu Tu were several section chiefs and deputy staff chiefs from the City Hall.


    Not because they held high positions or great power, but because... after getting acquainted with Qiu Tu, they were quite proactive and enthusiastic in chatting with him, and between the lines, they also probed for progress on the "Yin Caimei case."


    Qiu Tu did not know whether it was their own initiative or if someone was directing them from behind.


    But still, he quietly took note of their names in his "little book" to consider bringing them in for questioning if given the chance...


    As others were busy trying to make Qiu Tu''s acquaintance and Qiu Tu was busy listing them, a new round of horse racing had started.


    As one of the oldest sports in human history, horse racing has different forms in each era.


    The rules at Emerald Fort were similar to those of Fragrant River in the past life: flat obstacle racing with jockeys riding.


    This also brought new star horses and jockeys into the limelight each month.


    However, Qiu Tu had no interest in such "sophisticated" entertainment, so after symbolically laying down 1 Silver Yuan, he sat in a chair to the side, watching the excited crowd to pass the time.


    Perhaps, as Chief Huang had mentioned, Qiu Tu was indeed becoming a well-known figure in the political and business circles of Xinjie City, with many wishing to network with him.

 Chapter 124 - 106: Madam, You Wouldnt Want Your Husband... (10k for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, he had just been alone for a dozen or so seconds when a woman''s voice, as pleasant as an oriole''s, sounded by his ear, "Chief Qiu, may I have a chat with you?"


    Upon hearing that voice, Qiu Tu looked up curiously and saw a somewhat familiar-looking young matron standing respectfully before him with a glass of wine in hand.


    The young matron''s appearance could only be considered slightly above average, but she had a unique air about her of a well-bred lady, which was quite memorable.


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a second before recognizing the woman in front of him as Chief Bai from the Civil Affairs Bureau, introduced to him just a moment ago by Chief Huang.


    It goes without saying that Qiu Tu would not refuse the request of a beautiful woman, so he smiled and nodded, "Of course, Chief Bai."


    When the young matron heard Qiu Tu addressing her by her position, she appeared quite surprised.


    She gave a soft smile, "Chief Qiu actually knows who I am?"


    She pondered for a moment, then asked tentatively, "Was it Chief Huang who introduced me, perhaps?"


    Although the woman was in her thirties, she might have been well-protected, hence even the vulnerability she exuded didn''t seem uncomfortable despite appearing naive.


    Qiu Tu became even more intrigued by the woman before him with her unique demeanor.


    So he smiled, shaking his head, "No."


    "Your husband is on my list of suspects."


    As soon as Qiu Tu''s words fell, the young matron''s body stiffened, and she even struggled to control her expression.


    She forced a laugh, "You''re joking."


    But Qiu Tu merely smiled, and although he didn''t repeat himself, his expression could not have been clearer: he wasn''t joking¡­


    Actually, right after Chief Huang had introduced this young matron, mentioning that her father was a deputy commissioner at City Hall, and her husband was a wealthy transportation businessman, Qiu Tu had felt a sense of familiarity.


    But since he was listening to Chief Huang at the time, he didn''t have the chance to contemplate it further.


    But when he later matched her with the list of names of transportation businessmen in his mind, he immediately knew her identity: Mrs. Bai Ru, wife of Qian Dafu.


    And Bai Ru''s father, Qian Dafu''s father-in-law, was not someone else but the right-hand man of the Patriarch of the Qin Family, Commissioner Qin Heng of the Civil Affairs Bureau, Deputy Commissioner Bai Yongdong... S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once all these relationships were matched up, Qiu Tu had only one feeling: Xinjie City was really too small. So small that any random encounter could mean intertwined connections...


    Meanwhile, Bai Ru also realized that Qiu Tu''s expression was no pretense, so she stood there, the smile on her face growing more and more rigid.


    Finally, after two seconds, she gave an awkward smile to Qiu Tu and said, "It seems I am intruding. Sorry to bother you, Chief Qiu."


    Having said that, she turned around hastily to leave.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu suddenly called out to her, "Wait a minute. Chief Bai, you must have had something you wanted to discuss with me, right?"


    "Since you''ve already brought it up, why not finish what you have to say before you go?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru paused.


    She turned around to look at Qiu Tu. Then she saw him pat the spot next to him, gesturing for her to sit down and chat...


    Bai Ru''s face was evidently conflicted, but after hesitating for a moment, she still walked over to where Qiu Tu was and sat down.


    The viewing platform had only benches without individual seats, so after Bai Ru sat down, she found herself rather close to Qiu Tu.


    She intended to shift her position slightly, but just then, Qiu Tu suddenly placed a hand on her fair thigh, asking nonchalantly, "What did Chief Bai want to talk to me about?"


    Bai Ru was dressed in a casual short skirt that day, so the touch was slippery and soft.


    Bai Ru hadn''t expected Qiu Tu to be so bold and reckless; startled, she quickly moved her leg away.


    Qiu Tu didn''t seem to mind and naturally withdrew his hand, then casually broached a topic, "Are you familiar with Chief Huang, Chief Bai?"


    Bai Ru was still in shock. Suddenly hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she was momentarily confused. Her attention pulled back, she stuttered, "Just, just aware, from before..."


    Qiu Tu didn''t wait for her to elaborate and simply nodded, then asked offhandedly, "Are you acquainted with Section Chief Kong from the Education Bureau, Chief Bai?"


    Bai Ru was taken aback by the abruptness of Qiu Tu''s question, pausing for a second, "I''ve just seen him a few times, since we are, after all, in the same building..."


    Qiu Tu interrupted her, "By the way, does Chief Bai know Chief Xin?"


    Bai Ru, "Yes, I know him... I and he..."


    The several contacts Qiu Tu mentioned were all the "new friends" that Chief Huang had introduced to him.


    While Qiu Tu and Bai Ru were having casual conversation, they were near the floor-to-ceiling windows not far from the observation deck, cheering for the racehorses they each supported.


    So, every time Qiu Tu asked about someone, Bai Ru couldn''t help but glance at that person before answering Qiu Tu''s question.


    And because Qiu Tu''s questions were quick, and he frequently interrupted Bai Ru, her answers became increasingly rapid, to the point where she had almost no time to think.


    After four or five rounds of rapid-fire questioning, that''s how it went.


    Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "What''s the relationship between Chief Bai and Commissioner Qin?"


    Almost without thinking, Bai Ru reflexively responded swiftly, "Commissioner Qin is my father''s boss."


    "My father has always been grateful for the kindness he received from Old Master Qin in the past, so he often pays visits during holidays to the Qin family."


    "I''ve also been a few times and met Commissioner Qin on several occasions."


    "Before Xinjie City was established, Old Master Qin had already arranged for Commissioner Qin to take over, and then he approached my father, saying he could help him seek a position, but he needed him to..."


    Halting halfway through her sentence, Bai Ru finally realized that she might have let a major secret slip. She quickly covered her mouth, looking at Qiu Tu with a panicked expression.


    Qiu Tu''s expression, however, hadn''t changed much.


    Having learned about Bai Ru''s family and after talking to Bai Ru, Qiu Tu quickly realized that Bai Ru was one of the 12 types of women recorded in the "Emotional Fraud Manual" as a typical "Inner Protector."


    Such women, entirely different from the "Action-Oriented Person" like Tang Feifei, have distinguishing characteristics: they''re weak, compliant, and easily subdued by the strong.


    They mostly come from privileged family backgrounds, have been overprotected since childhood, and coupled with their parents'' dominant personalities, they gradually develop this tender character.


    The "Emotional Handbook" also outlines how to deal with such women. The simplest method is: be assertive, assertive, and then more assertive.


    That''s why Qiu Tu took control:


    Once he confirmed that Bai Ru needed something from him, he assertively made physical contact; he assertively controlled the conversation with rapid questions and answers and directly intimidated Bai Ru.


    And sure enough, under such assertive pressure from Qiu Tu, Bai Ru was utterly disarmed, barely able to muster any defense.


    In just a few words, Qiu Tu fished out a lot of information from her.


    ¡ªNot only the relationship between the Bai family and the Qin family but also Bai Ru''s connections with Chief Huang and those "new friends."


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t wrong, they must be "a group."


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was analyzing Bai Ru''s weaknesses,


    Bai Ru, realizing her slip of the tongue, finally couldn''t hold back. She recognized that she was no match for the man in front of her and, frightened, tried to leave.


    But just then, Qiu Tu patted her tender thigh again, chuckling, "Madam, you wouldn''t want your husband and father to be taken away, would you?"


    Qiu Tu''s words successfully froze Bai Ru''s movement.


    Her complexion changed rapidly, as if she remembered all the rumors she had heard about Qiu Tu lately, and recalled the "Authorization Letter" and "Special Arrest Warrant" he currently held.


    So, after hesitating for a moment, she ultimately... slowly sat back down.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smirked.


    Indeed, "Inner Protector" women are so easy to manipulate.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu kept his hand firmly on Bai Ru''s leg.


    While gently caressing her, he asked, "Madam, you must have something you want to talk to me about today, right?"


    ---


    Today 3 chapters, 10k words; published 2 chapters, with 1 chapter still being written. Everyone can look forward to it tomorrow at noon.

 Chapter 125 - 107: Mistress? (10k Subscriptions Wanted)

    If it were any other woman with a different temperament, faced with Qiu Tu''s actions, most would have immediately called for help or, at the very least, turned around and walked away.


    But... a woman with the "Inner Protector" temperament couldn''t muster the courage to do so¡ªespecially when the other party had a grip on her Achilles'' heel.


    So, feeling Qiu Tu''s hand caressing her legs, sensing his increasingly ambiguous moves, Bai Ru''s complexion changed several times until... she took off her short Chanel-style jacket and placed it over her legs, shielding Qiu Tu''s hand...


    Qiu Tu glanced at Bai Ru, somewhat surprised by the lady''s "cooperation."


    Then... he saw the slight flush that appeared on Bai Ru''s fair cheek, and the unnatural expression that spread across her face...


    For some reason, Qiu Tu felt even more thrilled...


    After covering her legs with the jacket as if to "cover her ears to steal a bell," Bai Ru swallowed several times, suppressed the unease in her heart, and slowly revealed her purpose, "Chief Qiu, the reason I''m here today is that there''s some intelligence I''d like to discuss with you."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu ''oh''ed and, while tracing circles on her leg, asked, "What intelligence?"


    Feeling the unusual movement of Qiu Tu''s hand, Bai Ru''s face grew redder, but she feigned calmness and revealed, "Actually, I''ve seen Yin Caimei at many gatherings."


    Qiu Tu gave her a look, puzzled, and asked, "Isn''t that normal? Vice President Tian naturally has social interactions with you all. Is it strange to see his mistress?"


    At this, Bai Ru seemed to regain some confidence. She shook her head slightly and said, "It seems that no one has told Chief Qiu."


    "Vice President Tian has his own wife, and at all formal events, he appears with his wife, never with other female companions."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment.


    Then he remembered Bai Ru mentioning that she "often encountered Yin Caimei at gatherings," his eyes suddenly widened with a shocking suspicion!


    Sure enough, Bai Ru stated, "So, every time I see Yin Caimei... she''s always attending banquets with other men."


    "Moreover, she''s exceedingly intimate with those men. When they leave, they leave together..."


    Bai Ru spoke in a subtle way, but the phrase "leave together" was enough to let Qiu Tu imagine the rest of the details.


    So, after a silence of two seconds, Qiu Tu slowly articulated four words, "Shared mistress?"


    Perhaps the news was too shocking; Qiu Tu even stopped the movements of his hand.


    This, in turn, allowed Bai Ru''s complexion to return to a more normal state.


    With some of the flush fading from her face, she then watched the "new friends" cheering for jockeys and horses in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows and said softly, "I believe that by now, you''ve guessed who those people might be, right?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also looked towards the sectional chiefs from the City Hall who had just been seeking information from him.


    Bai Ru nodded subtly, whispering, "They are just the lowest ranking among them..."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    To be honest, it wasn''t until this moment that Qiu Tu finally understood why investigating the "Yin Caimei case" was fraught with so much danger!


    Before today, there was one thing that Qiu Tu couldn''t figure out: that is... no matter how important Vice President Tian was, it didn''t make sense for so many powers to be monitoring his mistress''s case, did it?!


    Moreover, they were so desperate that they would assassinate the officers investigating the case!


    At the time, Qiu Tu had two suspicions:


    1. Vice President Tian was simply too important to Xinjie City. So important that all sides wouldn''t allow anything to happen to him.


    2. These powers were likely to have some connection to the Anti-government Armed Forces.


    While both of these suspicions had some incongruities, before that, Qiu Tu couldn''t think of any other possibilities, so he had no choice but to investigate in those directions.


    However... He had planned for every eventuality but had not anticipated that Yin Caimei was the core of the case!


    She was not only Vice President Tian''s mistress but also the mistress of many others!


    So... when Yin Caimei was discovered to be a spy and was captured by the Political Department, it led to so many people wanting her dead!


    So... Jia Shu opened the doors of convenience for various powers to silence her.


    So... there was a threat to Qiu Tu''s life when Yan Chen authorized a deeper investigation into "the case of Yin Caimei"...


    Even more so, from this, Qiu Tu thought of something further: no wonder because of such a "minor" case, Yan Chen and Jia Shu were in such discord.


    If he was right, the majority sharing Yin Caimei were probably administrative personnel from the City Hall, and the implications were far-reaching.


    As one of the Three Giants of Xinjie, of course, no one dared pressure Yan Chen, and Yan Chen was happy to see those administrative personnel from the City Hall brought down because of the case.


    But Jia Shu was different. Even though his position in Xinjie City wasn''t low, the pressure and interests from all sides still influenced his decisions.


    That reasonably explained why, even though they were on the same side, Jia Shu and Yan Chen were so divided over this matter.


    Not for anything else, but for profit alone.


    And now, having thoroughly understood the intricacies of the case, Qiu Tu''s brain was whirling.


    A question surfaced in his mind: given the broad implications of the case, should he continue the investigation?


    His complexion rapidly shifted as his brain weighed the pros and cons.


    In the end... Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute again!


    Having been given a second chance at life, he had no room for hesitation and second-guessing!


    Now that they were ready to launch, how could he possibly give up just because the enemies were too powerful!


    ```


    The broader the case involved, the greater the personal gain after resolving it!


    No risk, no reward, the higher the waves, the more precious the fish! Take the shot, a bicycle might turn into a motorcycle!


    Having come to a decision, Qiu Tu felt his mindset become more natural.


    He smiled at Bai Ru and said, "Thank you, Section Chief Bai, for telling me such a secret matter."


    "You dared to take such a big risk to warn me, you must want something, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru''s eyes, brimming with tears, turned to him as she pleaded, "I hope Chief Qiu can let my husband go... He''s been wronged."


    Qiu Tu was even more intrigued, "Are you talking about Qian Dafu?"


    Bai Ru nodded.


    Qiu Tu pretended to be puzzled, "What happened to him? Is he involved in this case?"


    Bai Ru probably didn''t expect Qiu Tu to ask such a question.


    For a moment, she couldn''t tell whether Qiu Tu really hadn''t found anything about her husband or if he was... hinting at something to her.


    Just then, a burst of cheers and some groans suddenly came from the direction of the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the scene.


    The cheers intermingled with people''s frustrated voices.


    Qiu Tu and Bai Ru looked in the direction the sounds were coming from and saw Chief Huang and others, some laughing, some upset, engaged in a heated argument.


    It looked like a horse race had just finished.


    Noticing this, Qiu Tu curiously watched Captain Zhang.


    Indeed... Chief Huang hadn''t given a wrong introduction; this young man following General Ye had lost another bet, his eyes red as he roared something at the racetrack below, then... he started asking people around him for money.


    Qiu Tu watched thoughtfully for a moment and then looked away.


    At this time, Chief Huang and others returned as well.


    Seeing Bai Ru sitting intimately by Qiu Tu''s side, they exchanged glances, and when they looked at the two again, there was an unspoken ambiguity in their eyes.


    After all, Bai Ru was married, so upon seeing this, she quickly tried to get up.


    But at this moment, Qiu Tu reached out to catch her and drew her slender waist directly into his arms. Amidst her exclamations, he pulled her into his embrace.


    With the beauty in his arms, Qiu Tu smiled at Chief Huang and others, saying, "Section Chief Bai and I hit it off right away, and she wants to join us."


    "I wonder if that''s convenient?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chief Huang and the others exchanged looks, then replied with an ambiguous smile, "We have no problem with it."


    "It''s just that the upcoming activities might be a bit much for Section Chief Bai to handle."


    As they said this, they winked at Qiu Tu and Bai Ru.


    Qiu Tu then turned to Bai Ru and whispered intimately into her ear, "What do you think, Section Chief Bai? Do you want to come with us and broaden your horizons?"


    Bai Ru obviously guessed what "broadening horizons" the men were referring to and was not inclined to participate.


    But, remembering her husband''s fate was still in Qiu Tu''s hands and that she hadn''t fully grasped the meaning behind Qiu Tu''s previous words,


    she hesitated for a long time, her expression changing. Finally, she sighed and nodded slightly, agreeing to go along. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing her agreement, the men burst out into loud laughter, especially Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, and other City Hall officials involved with Yin Caimei, laughed the hardest.


    Becaue... in their eyes, Qiu Tu''s actions were a strong signal to them: they were all on the same side. There was no need to worry about Yin Caimei''s case.


    Qiu Tu also smiled especially heartily.


    Laugh, laugh all you want, your time to cry will come...


    After the race, fulfilling Qiu Tu''s request to "broaden horizons," Chief Huang took Qiu Tu and a dozen heads and deputy heads to the nightclub at Emerald Fort.


    Upon arriving at the opulent nightclub, Qiu Tu felt his left pants pocket vibrate a few times.


    With one arm around Bai Ru, he took out the communicator with his other hand.


    There was only one text on the communicator, from Chen Feng:


    "Boss, shall we gather tonight?"


    It was the code Qiu Tu and he had agreed on. It meant, "Commander, everything is in place, should we execute the plan?"


    Qiu Tu knew all the groups must have already taken positions near Qian Dafu and the other targets, ready to move.


    So, he typed a message: I''m tied up, you guys go ahead.


    "Take action."


    After sending the message, Qiu Tu laughed and planted a kiss on Bai Ru''s face, then, amid her exclamations, stealthily pressed the send button...


    -------


    Today''s 3 chapters total 10,000 words. I''ll post 2 chapters now and am still writing one more, which you can see tomorrow at noon. Ten thousand words for Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 126 - 108: Caught 4 Section Chiefs in One Go! (10,000 Characters, Please Subscribe)

    After sending the message, Qiu Tu stuffed the communicator into his pocket, embraced Bai Ru, and called out to Chief Huang and the others, "Shall we start now?!"


    "Whew Whew¡ª"


    Accompanied by unrestrained laughter and whistling, a line of scantily clad beauties walked in one by one from the door of the private room, all smiling coyly...


    Soon, the entire VIP room was filled with the chirping and chattering of joyful voices...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Outside the small villa where Qian Dafu lived.


    Chen Feng and Eagle had also received the message sent by Qiu Tu.


    After seeing that it was a code for executing orders, Chen Feng looked at his watch, which showed 1:07 PM.


    All the commanders of the action groups had synchronized their watches when they split up, so there was no discrepancy in time.


    Therefore, Chen Feng and Eagle sent out the action message to the other four action groups together: The chief has authorized the operation, and the arrest will officially begin at 1:10 PM!


    It didn''t take long for the two men to receive confirmation replies from all the action groups.


    With the last confirmation message received, the communicator went silent.


    Chen Feng and Eagle gave several hand signals, alerting the detectives in surveillance to get ready, and then they began to patiently wait.


    Time ticked away by the minute and second.


    Soon, it was 1:10 PM.


    Chen Feng and Eagle exchanged glances, then nodded.


    Eagle stayed behind to command, while Chen Feng led two armed Special Service detectives, holding an arrest warrant issued by Qiu Tu, and strode confidently up to the door of Qian Dafu''s villa.


    "Thump Thump Thump!"


    Following Chen Feng''s knocking, a middle-aged woman''s voice soon came from inside, "Who is it?"


    Chen Feng sternly said, "Political Department."


    Upon hearing Chen Feng''s voice, a flurry of panic ensued inside the house.


    Instead of opening the door, someone hurried to the windows on the east and west sides of the villa to peer out.


    When they saw several detectives on alert in each direction, more commotion arose from inside the house.


    Seeing this, Chen Feng didn''t give the people inside much time to react. He drew his service pistol and fired a warning shot into the sky, following Qiu Tu''s instructions from that morning!


    "Bang!"


    As the gunshot resounded over the entire villa complex, the noise inside the house quieted down.


    At this time, Chen Feng shouted into the house, "Political Department on duty! Anyone delaying will face consequences!"


    "I''m going to count to three! If the door isn''t opened by then, we will take it as an act of resistance to arrest, and we''re authorized to shoot to kill!"


    "Three!"


    "Two!"


    Chen Feng hadn''t even shouted "One" when someone violently flung open the villa door from the inside.


    A maid in her thirties looked out at Chen Feng with a face full of terror, her hands raised high, "Don''t shoot! Don''t shoot! I''m innocent!"


    She then quickly signaled toward the inside, "The...the master is inside."


    Hearing this, Chen Feng motioned to the Special Service detective beside him, who stepped forward, dragged the maid out, pushed her aside, and then stood ready next to Chen Feng again.


    Chen Feng held out the arrest warrant directly, and with a gun in hand, once again shouted into the house, "Qian Dafu! I am Chen Feng, a Second-Class Investigator from the Political Department''s operation section!"


    "I''m here to execute an arrest order on you!"


    "I''m giving you three more seconds! If you don''t come out, don''t blame us if our bullets are blind!"


    "Three!"


    This time Chen Feng didn''t even have to shout "Two" before a potbellied middle-aged man walked out from inside the house, pale as a ghost.


    Chen Feng looked at him coldly and waved to the Special Service detectives, "Take him away!"


    The two Special Service detectives stepped forward, cuffed Qian Dafu, and started to lead him outside.


    The entire arrest process took less than a minute.


    Qian Dafu''s two highly paid bodyguards had stood behind him from start to finish, not daring to make a single move...


    Simultaneously. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The villas of the other three major transporters, the Qin Family, all action groups were moving at the same time.


    As Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had expected, in the face of real bullets and armed detectives, in front of the mighty state machine, those businessmen had no power to resist at all.


    Even the well-rooted Qin Family, faced with over a dozen fully-armed Special Service and Political Department investigators; faced with the arrest warrant signed by Qiu Tu; faced with the photocopy of Yan Chen''s "Special Arrest Warrant," dared not resist.


    They could only watch helplessly as Qin Zhengguang and Qin Shu were taken away by Fang Ming, Cao Dabiao, and others.


    The operation was swift and fast, leaving these people with hardly any time to react before it was over.


    But... the end of the operation didn''t mean that everything was over.


    The sudden mass arrests by Qiu Tu were like a huge stone thrown into the already churningly turbulent waters, which then "boom!" created a huge splash!


    The repercussions of the incident rapidly spread across the upper echelons of Xinjie City society!


    No one expected Qiu Tu to take action so quickly, so urgently!


    He had just received the Authorization Letter and the Special Arrest Warrant yesterday, yet today at noon he went straight to making arrests!


    He didn''t even give the various forces time to react!


    Especially since... at this moment, Qiu Tu was still singing with Chief Huang, Section Chief Kong, and others!


    ...


    Truth be told, when Chief Huang and the others dragged Qiu Tu to the night club at the Emerald Fort, although he appeared to be looking forward to it, he wasn''t particularly interested at heart.


    Having lived a profligate past life, he truly felt there was nothing new for him to see!


    However, after experiencing the services at the Emerald Fort with Chief Huang, Section Chief Kong, and the others, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remark in his heart: This is indeed something I have never seen before!


    As his spacious private room echoed with the sound of one communicator after another, Qiu Tu was draping one arm around Mrs. Bai Ru, the wife of Qian Dafu, and running his other hand up the thigh of a cheongsam-clad beauty, while.... in front of him, he was enjoying a "facial wash" service from a big-busted girl.


    The cleansing cream rolled over Qiu Tu''s face, soft and comfortable, making him feel utterly relaxed and pleased!


    Bai Ru, blushing and looking away, couldn''t bear to watch the scene unfolding before her, but Qiu Tu''s persistent grip prevented her from escaping.


    So, she could only curl up like a quail, casting her eyes toward the group of dancing girls in the center of the room.


    Then, a series of ringing sounds began to rise and fall throughout the private room.


    Several City Hall section chiefs gradually stopped their "face wash" and stepped out to take calls.


    Bai Ru, somewhat puzzled by the scene unfolding before her, didn''t understand what was happening.


    It was at that moment, the Chief Huang sitting beside Qiu Tu spoke up.


    Chief Huang, too, was indulging in the pleasures around him. As he closed his eyes in enjoyment, he said to Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu."


    "You know, I, Old Huang, have a wide circle of friends. Sometimes I can''t help but entertain friends when they come asking."


    "So.... if you catch them, you can''t arrest me, right?"


    The words of Chief Huang made Bai Ru startle, almost failing to catch on.


    ''What does he mean by not arresting Chief Huang if they arrest others?''


    ''Who is Qiu Tu going to arrest?''


    ''Wasn''t the issue with Yin Caimei resolved?''


    As she pondered, suddenly, her own communicator began to buzz.


    Bai Ru took out the communicator and saw that it was a call from her home landline.


    In that instant, perhaps realizing the caller was her husband, Bai Ru''s face flushed even deeper red.


    She awkwardly glanced at Qiu Tu''s hand that was wandering along her waistline, feeling unspeakably ashamed.


    She wished that Qiu Tu would momentarily leave her alone to take the call.


    But before she could speak up, as if anticipating something, Qiu Tu took the lead in releasing her. His arms then embraced the girl in front of him, plunging his head forward!


    "Hmm, comfortable!"


    Qiu Tu let out a satisfied cry, leaving Bai Ru with a crimson face.


    Bai Ru quickly seized the opportunity to sit aside and answer the phone.


    The moment the call connected, the anxious voice of a maid at home came through, "Madam, please come back quickly and see for yourself."


    "The Political Department, people from the Political Department have taken the master away!"


    Upon hearing the maid''s words, Bai Ru''s mind went blank with a "buzz"!


    On instinct, she turned her head in shock and looked at Qiu Tu!


    Before she could utter a word, the door to the private room was abruptly pushed open from the outside, with Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and others all standing at the doorway, their faces filled with disbelief as they looked at Qiu Tu!


    Section Chief Kong, perhaps the bravest among them, pointed at Qiu Tu, his finger trembling, "Qiu, Qiu Tu! You, you, you have been playing a double game?!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, who was reluctantly raising his head from the cleansing cream, pushed away the fair-skinned busty girl atop him. Then, with a smile that was not quite a smile, he looked at the three section chiefs standing at the door and said, "Gentlemen, I don''t believe I ever said or promised anything, did I? How can this be considered speaking one way to your face and another behind your back?"


    "On the contrary, I should probably thank you."


    "If you hadn''t jumped out on your own, who knows how much time I might have had to waste before I could uncover the true depths of this case!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and stood up. He then pulled out a blank arrest warrant from his pocket, drew out a pen, and briskly signed several names on it, showing it to everyone, "Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, shall we take a trip to the Political Department?!"


    Possibly never expecting Qiu Tu to turn his face so quickly, the three men erupted in panic, shaking like leaves, barely able to stand.


    It was at this moment, Bai Ru, who had appeared so delicate and weak from the very beginning of their meeting, suddenly mustered her courage, stood up defiantly, and, with an indignant face, said to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! You! How could you!"


    As if he had just noticed Bai Ru, he let out a surprised "Oh" and added her name to the arrest warrant,


    "Right, I almost forgot about you, Section Chief Bai...."


    "Thank you for your cooperation with ''the operation'' today."


    "I hope you can be just as ''cooperative'' when we reach the Political Department."


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    I toiled away until 4 in the morning, and finally, the third chapter is out. 10k words done! In light of my efforts to stay up late, I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 127 - 109 Continue to Play Music and Dance (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    They might never have encountered a situation where they were having a great time playing together, only for it to turn into an arrest in the middle of their fun.


    So when Qiu Tu stood up and signed the arrest warrant on the spot, the entire glittering private room suddenly fell silent as a tomb.


    The other captains and section chiefs playing with them, as well as the rich merchants, all lifted their heads from the ladies'' creamy bosoms, one by one, looking at Qiu Tu in surprise, then at Section Chief Bai and Section Chief Kong.


    Perhaps the atmosphere in the room was too stiff or maybe the name "Political Department," stained with blood, was too scary.


    Even the beauties who had been dancing in the room stopped their moves, standing still, not knowing what to do as they watched everyone.


    The only one who remained calm in the room was probably Chief Huang, the organizer of the party.


    The girl helping him wash his face was already too frightened to move, but he actually closed his eyes, pressing forward, rubbing in the tender softness as if the whole thing really had nothing to do with him.


    Seeing his composure, Qiu Tu''s eyes seemed to contemplate, and then he too reassured everyone with a smile, "Everyone, don''t be agitated."


    "I''m just going out to discuss a case with Section Chief Kong and Section Chief Bai."


    "This matter is official business among us and has nothing to do with you all."


    "So...."


    Qiu Tu walked to the middle of the private room, grinning as he wrapped an arm around a scantily clad dancer, then snapped his fingers at the service personnel at the console, "Continue the music, continue the dance!"


    "Let''s all continue to have fun!"


    Being the center of attention in the room now, Qiu Tu''s instructions had the service personnel promptly put the dynamic music back on.


    With the music vibrant and blazing, Qiu Tu laughed heartily, hugging the barely clothed dancers and started dancing wildly!


    While dancing, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but inwardly exclaim: Damn, I''m so dedicated to my work!


    If it were any other detective, they probably would have taken the suspect and left by now. Only I, even though I''ve already worked so hard, still play the part to the fullest, dancing close with these beauties!


    After dancing with the beauties for a few songs and breaking out into a sweat, Qiu Tu stretched lazily, finally climbing out from the pile of women.


    He took out his wallet and grabbed a handful of Silver Yuans, then teasingly said to the group of beauties crowding around him, "Say thank you."


    Seeing the Silver Yuans in Qiu Tu''s hand, the beauties scrambled to say, "Thank you!" "Thank you, sir!" "Thank you, boss!"


    Qiu Tu laughed and scattered the Silver Yuans over them, then turned to the service girl who had been serving him.


    This time, Qiu Tu counted out six Silver Yuans, placing them one by one into her deep cleavage, then patted her chest and complimented with a smile, "Good job. I''ll look for you again next time."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu turned around and embraced Bai Ru, who was still frozen in place, waved to everyone without looking back, leaving behind a dashing silhouette, "We''ll be leaving first!"


    "Everyone, continue having a good time!"


    "We''ll meet again next time!"


    From the moment Qiu Tu presented the arrest warrant, the atmosphere in the private room had actually been quite strange.


    So even though Qiu Tu got everyone playing again, in reality... it was only Qiu Tu who was playing.


    The other captains and section chiefs, although still holding the girls, no longer had the relaxed expression from before, only a mix of pain and numbness as if they were working overtime or handling a tedious task.


    As for Bai Ru and Section Chief Kong, it was even worse for them. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the suspects whom Qiu Tu had apprehended, they stood there, not knowing whether to run or sit, just staring dumbly as Qiu Tu and the beauties merrily mingled.


    So when Qiu Tu finally decided to leave after having his fill of fun, everyone was able to breathe a sigh of relief.


    Even Bai Ru and Section Chief Kong seemed to feel a sense of liberation, obediently following Qiu Tu out of the extravagantly decorated private room.


    And after Qiu Tu and his party left the private room, the joyful atmosphere that had been there finally began to return to tranquility.


    All the officers present now had their eyes on Chief Huang.


    Chief Huang seemed to sense those looks and sighed deeply, slowly lifting his head from the creamy bosom.


    The service personnel, perceptive to the mood, switched off the music and left the private room with the dancers and the busty girls, tiptoeing out and leaving the vast room to the officers.


    The private room was already large, and when they left, it suddenly felt more spacious and lonely....


    Now without outsiders, Chief Huang looked around at everyone present and slowly said, "What happened today is not that simple... I was just following orders...."


    [6 and a half days (time to close Yin Caimei''s case)]


    [3 and a half days (danger in the dark)]


    .....


    It has to be said, Section Chief Kong, Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and the others were quite compliant.


    Even though Qiu Tu did not handcuff them or escort them personally, once it was confirmed that the arrest warrant was legitimate, they obediently followed Qiu Tu out of the Emerald Fort night club.


    Of course, along the way, they did not forget to threaten Qiu Tu, just like villains in a TV show.


    With phrases like "I will definitely file a complaint against Qiu Tu!" "I won''t let Qiu Tu get away with this!" "Qiu Tu just wait," they kept talking all the way....


    Qiu Tu''s response was to continue fondling Bai Ru''s waist, while nonchalantly saying, "Yes, yes, yes," "Right, right, right," just humoring them.

 Chapter 128 - 109 Continue to Play Music and Dance (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    Qiu Tu wasn''t exactly even-tempered; he just couldn''t be bothered to quibble with "dead people."


    He clearly remembered the first thing he learned when he entered the Political Department: in the Political Department, there were never any miscarriages of justice.


    So, what''s the point in arguing with people who have no future?...


    After driving out of Emerald Fort, with a group of suspects already sent back, Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun were already waiting outside in the police T-model cars.


    When they saw Qiu Tu come out, they all went up to him.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car and let Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun take Section Chief Kong and the others to the T-model cars, leaving only Bai Ru in his own vehicle.


    This clearly led to a misunderstanding among his confidants, like Cao Dabiao and Ah-Kun.


    Cao Dabiao glanced at Bai Ru twice, chuckled craftily, and moved closer to Qiu Tu to ask in a low voice, "Chief, are all the beauties from Emerald Fort of such high quality?"


    "This woman may look just above average, but that temperament of hers... tsk tsk."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu tilted his head towards Bai Ru in the car and indifferently stated, "She is one of the suspects, the wife of Qian Dafu, Section Chief Bai from City Hall, her father is the Deputy Director of the Civil Affairs Bureau."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was initially stunned, then hurriedly put away his playful expression, looking rather embarrassed.


    Although there are slight differences in the hierarchy, the positions within the three major institutions were still interchangeable.


    Moreover, being part of the Sanctuary meant that, unless an official''s status was revoked, subordinates could not make such jokes with their superiors, even if they were suspects.


    Seeing Cao Dabiao taken down a peg, a malicious smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face.


    Say what you will, although Cao Dabiao was greedy, lecherous, timid, and averse to trouble, after spending time together, you''d find he is quite amusing.


    And indeed, teams often need such a lubricant.


    That''s why Qiu Tu actually enjoyed teasing him from time to time, just to see him in an awkward spot.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu instructed Cao Dabiao and the others to escort the prisoners in the police T-model cars, while he followed behind in his vehicle with Bai Ru.


    He got into the car and started it.


    Sitting in the passenger seat, Bai Ru fell silent for two seconds before asking, "Why didn''t you let me go in that car too?"


    "Is it because you want to interrogate me alone?"


    "Or is it because I''m a woman, and it''s not very convenient to sit with them in the same car?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t answer her question and instead, while driving, commanded, "Spread your legs!"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ru looked bewildered, but her conservative nature meant that faced with Qiu Tu''s authoritative command, she involuntarily chose to comply: she spread her thin legs apart.


    Thus, with his left hand on the steering wheel and his right hand on Bai Ru''s thigh, Qiu Tu felt comfortable...


    After all, when driving, hands should be where they belong. Otherwise, what''s the point of driving!


    Bai Ru:..... S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Following behind the police T-model car, they drove all the way to the Investigation Bureau.


    He stopped the car. Although no action had been announced, somehow, news had reached Liu Fuping from the Investigation Bureau, who was already waiting in the parking lot.


    When Qiu Tu got out of the car, she swayed over.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, she was about to say something with a smile on her face. But before she could speak, she saw Bai Ru coming down from the car, and she paused.


    "Sister Liu has arrived?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu casually greeted her, then said, "Good timing. This is Section Chief Bai, the wife of Qian Dafu. Could you take her to the guard room?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu assigning her a task, although Liu Fuping wanted to stay and chat with him, she could only salute and respond, "Yes, chief."


    After receiving the order, Liu Fuping walked towards Bai Ru, gesturing slightly with her hand, "Section Chief Bai, this way, please~"


    According to the "Emotional Fraud Manual," for women with a "protective" mindset, change signifies "danger" and "discomfort"; they prefer a static, predictable life.


    So, even though Qiu Tu had been taking advantage of her since they met, the moment she saw Liu Fuping, Bai Ru still pulled at the corner of Qiu Tu''s uniform jacket in a plea for help.


    Noticing her action, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then patted Bai Ru''s hand with amusement in his eyes, soothingly saying, "Don''t worry, Agent Liu is my person. She won''t do anything to you."


    Hearing this, Bai Ru finally relaxed and then also let go of the corner of Qiu Tu''s jacket.


    But after letting go, she realized belatedly: why should she trust the subordinates of Qiu Tu? If he himself is a big liar, wouldn''t his subordinates just be small-time swindlers?


    She must be very careful!


    Thinking this, Bai Ru followed Liu Fuping towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Along the way, Liu Fuping led Bai Ru forward while saying with a sympathetic face, "Section Chief Bai must have been wronged, right? Chief Qiu is... well..."


    As if sensing Liu Fuping''s "opinion" of Qiu Tu, Bai Ru froze for a moment, then looked up at Liu Fuping with puzzled astonishment, "Miss Liu, do you also have issues with Chief Qiu...?"


    Glancing around, and seeing that no one had noticed, Liu Fuping whispered with a look of disgust, "What chief? He''s just a pervert. Let me tell you, he often..."


    "Ah? Really?"


    "Yes. Why were you taken to the Political Department, Section Chief Bai? Qiu didn''t take advantage of you on the way, did he?"


    "I was taken because of my husband Qian Dafu... Of course, he took advantage of me."


    "My God. He''s such a beast! But what''s up with your husband?"


    "My husband, well, he..."


    In this way, their conversation grew more engaged. Even though it was just a short few-minute walk from the parking lot to the Guard Room, Liu Fuping had already managed to extract all the information she found interesting.


    She learned not only what happened today, the reasons why Bai Ru, Section Chief Kong and others were arrested, Bai Ru''s family background, her marital relationship, but even the color of her underwear.


    Um...black lace. A bit risqu¨¦.


    After escorting Bai Ru into the Guard Room, Liu Fuping hummed a tune and swayed her hips cheerfully towards the Investigation Bureau, feeling rather good.


    Just last night, she had merely audited a live lesson by Qiu Tu and felt like she''d gained a lot. Using what she learned on Bai Ru today turned out to work pretty well!


    This made her look forward even more to Qiu Tu''s teaching...


    She felt that if she could learn from Qiu Tu a few more times, she might become a qualified spy and interrogation expert...


    But the most important thing right now was to figure out exactly what Qiu Tu planned to do today and why he had caused such a stir.


    This was the mission recently given to her by the forces behind her...


    With that thought in mind, Liu Fuping quickly headed towards the Investigation Bureau...


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +8]


    ....


    As Liu Fuping watched Bai Ru enter the Investigation Bureau building,


    Qiu Tu rested in the car for a moment, then looked up at the overcast sky and also headed towards the Investigation Bureau building.


    Taking the elevator, he reached the 9th floor, the Political Department.


    The person he ran into was his superior, the head of the Interrogation Section, Zheng Tao.


    Seeing Qiu Tu again, Zheng Tao''s expression was noticeably complicated.


    As a workaholic, of course, Saturday was a working day. Thus, he was one of the first to learn about Qiu Tu''s big roundup today.


    Upon learning that Qiu Tu had tricked some section chiefs of the City Hall into going to the Emerald Fort under the guise of leisure to deceive the enemy and then arrested all involved with a thunderous approach,


    for the first time, he started to see his subordinate in a new light, thinking... maybe he''s quite a talent!


    So, upon seeing Qiu Tu, he even took the initiative to greet him and praised, "Chief Qiu, you''ve done a splendid job with this case."


    Surprised at Zheng Tao''s praise, Qiu Tu glanced at him and replied, "Section Chief, don''t think you can replace a vacation with praise, huh."


    "I''ll definitely make up for today''s overtime work next week."


    Zheng Tao:.....


    Such an incorrigible case!


    After parting with Zheng Tao, Qiu Tu received many looks along the way similar to Zheng Tao''s that were either "admiration," "envy," or "surprise."


    Obviously, there are no secrets in a government department. The people Qiu Tu had arrested half an hour ago were already the talk of the entire Political Department.


    However, Qiu Tu was not as optimistic as they were.


    So, after briefly attending the "arrest report" back at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu didn''t go immediately to interrogate the criminals.


    Instead...he went to the empty meeting room next door, took out his communicator, and waited quietly.


    He was waiting for a phone call.


    That call would determine the success or failure of everything he did tonight!


    ------


    Today, I''ll still update with 3 chapters at 10,000 characters. Here are 2 chapters at 7,000 words first.


    As a member of the physically challenged writers'' club, my writing speed is too slow, and there''s still one chapter that I haven''t managed to write. I will make it up when I get up in the morning; I will strive to publish it around 12 o''clock.

 Chapter 129 - 110: A Tit-for-tat with Jia Shu (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket)

    Qiu Tu did not have to wait long.


    After just a few minutes, his communicator began to vibrate with a "buzz buzz" sound.


    He picked up the communicator and glanced at the caller ID. After confirming it was the person he was waiting for,


    he adjusted his demeanor and then answered the phone with a smile.


    As the call connected, Jia Shu''s forced laughter came through the earpiece, "Chief Qiu''s methods are impressive. You made such a big splash without making a sound."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s somewhat sarcastic words, Qiu Tu replied with a serious expression, "Thank you for the compliment, Minister. It''s all thanks to your excellent guidance."


    Both men were old foxes, and simple verbal sparring wouldn''t affect their moods.


    So, Jia Shu pretended not to catch Qiu Tu''s sarcasm and formally started the conversation.


    He asked with a smile, "Does Chief Qiu know who he arrested today?"


    Qiu Tu honestly replied, "Of course, I know. I arrested Qian Dafu, Wang Zhuang, Hu Kaiwei, and Qi Yun, four big merchants in the transportation industry."


    At this moment, Jia Shu was sitting in a private box on the fifth floor of the Emerald Fort racecourse.


    The sky outside the box was dull and overcast, casting his face in intermittent shadows.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu chuckled, casually fiddling with a set of playing cards in his hand, and corrected lightly, "Not four big merchants in the transportation industry, but the heads of the only four transportation companies in Xinjie City."


    "Apart from the official transport teams managed by the military, these four companies are the sole channels for Xinjie City to exchange materials with other cities."


    "Is that so?" Qiu Tu, who already knew all this, feigned surprise and asked, "Did I cause any trouble for the minister then?"


    Qiu Tu''s feigned ignorance didn''t deceive Jia Shu, who chuckled lightly and affirmed, "Indeed, you''ve caused some trouble."


    "As soon as these four big merchants were arrested, the exchange of supplies in Xinjie City came to a complete halt."


    "The various departments of the City Hall are calling me one after another, asking what exactly happened and when I can release these four merchants, fearing that the transport channels might be closed permanently."


    With that, Jia Shu sighed, as if he were pressuring or lamenting, "It''s a serious matter, Chief Qiu. After all, the Investigation Bureau also needs supplies distributed from the City Hall."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu sat at a table in the empty conference room, his expression unchanged.


    He knew that no matter what Jia Shu said, he was actually pressuring him to release the prisoners.


    But... the men had already been arrested; how could Qiu Tu possibly let them go!


    Therefore, he did not follow up on Jia Shu''s words but instead took a different angle, lamenting,


    "It seems... they really have a grip on the lifeline of Xinjie City, otherwise... they wouldn''t have the courage to engage in illegal activities."


    Hearing this, Jia Shu "ha-ha" laughed twice, downplaying the topic and then timely switched to another one.


    He asked, "I understand why Chief Qiu arrested four transport merchants, but why did you also arrest Qin Shu and... Director Qin Zhengguang?"


    Jia Shu paused for a moment, then added with a laugh, "Do you know, after they were arrested, Commissioner Qin Heng immediately called the Bureau Chief and me..."


    He stopped there, neither revealing what Commissioner Qin had said nor how Yan Chen reacted, leaving a meaningful silence...


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu knew the most crucial part was coming.


    So instead of directly answering Jia Shu''s question, he digressed and said, "Minister, do you know that Director Qin Zhengguang was very happy when he was taken away by our Political Department Investigator?"


    "He even shook the Investigator''s hand and said ''thank you.''"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu''s card-playing paused momentarily over the phone. He feigned surprise with an "Oh?" and asked, "Really? Why?"


    Qiu Tu paused for two seconds, then softly said, "Because... I sent him a text message beforehand. I told him... the Security Department was eyeing this case, eyeing him."


    "Boom!"


    Whether by coincidence or not, as Qiu Tu quietly revealed this secret, a rumble of thunder exploded over the sky of Xinjie City.


    Together with the thunder, the already gloomy sky began to pour down small droplets of rain with a "whoosh."


    The drizzle seemed to disrupt the communication signal. Jia Shu paused for two seconds before putting away the cards and the smile, and slowly asked, "The Security Department... is eyeing this case?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in affirmation, sharing an even bigger secret, "Moreover, according to the information I''ve received, the Security Department is very likely to take action to arrest Vice President Tian tonight."


    Jia Shu was silent again for two seconds.


    After two seconds, as if he had replayed all the information in his mind and re-evaluated the whole case, he regained his composure.


    He leaned back on the sofa in the private box, laughed insincerely, and inquired, "Chief Qiu, how did you come to know about this?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Because I''ve been in mutual communication with them."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused then added softly, "Or rather... I was the one who disclosed this case to the Security Department."


    "Boom!"


    Another peal of thunder rumbled across the murky horizon. The rain fell harder and soon melded into sheets.


    Through the glass, the downpour partitioned the world into segments, like a curtain of rain.


    Over the phone, Jia Shu could barely contain his emotion. He laughed twice with a "ha-ha" and then said, "Interesting, interesting. I had not expected Chief Qiu to be so forthright."


    Qiu Tu also started to laugh.


    Two seconds later, Jia Shu''s fake laughter ceased; he sat up and said blandly, "Give me a reason."


    This time, he did not smile, and his tone was very calm. Yet... it still gave off an eerie sense of bloodiness.


    As Jia Shu spoke these words, a mass of Crisis Warnings suddenly popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    A [Countdown Hourglass] with only 1 minute started flashing, crazily flickering with red light, as if telling Qiu Tu how dangerous the crisis was.


    But Qiu Tu did not even glance at the countdown hourglass, nor did he look at those Crisis Warnings.


    He took in a silent, deep breath, suppressing the emotions churn in his heart, and naturally said to Jia Shu,


    "Because... during the days handling this case, I''ve found it to be too complex, too special. It''s like a candied fruit wrapped around poison."


    "Handled well, there isn''t much benefit to be gained. Handled poorly, one might instead face difficulties from all sides."


    [0:53]


    "So, I thought: since this is the case, why should the Political Department insist on clinging to it? After all, this case involves crimes committed by Cataclysmics, which isn''t within our investigative domain."


    "Why not throw the case to the military, let them deal with City Hall, and we reap the benefits like a fisherman?"


    Qiu Tu''s voice had a beguiling charm as he softly said, "After all, we''re the ones who discovered this case. If it''s cracked, we get the credit."


    "If it''s not solved, we''re not the principal investigators, so we won''t be criticized..."


    [0:45]


    "We''ll take the benefits we deserve, let the military, let the Security Department bear the pressure!"


    "As long as we have some key suspects in our hands. The progress of the Security Department''s investigation will always be under our control."


    [0:39]


    Seeing that Jia Shu was taking the bait, Qiu Tu paused, then whispered, "Moreover, what''s most important is that in doing so, the fundamental conflict between you and the Bureau Chief over this case will no longer exist..." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I could also breathe a sigh of relief. After all, being caught between you and the Bureau Chief has been like an eternity for me...."


    As Qiu Tu spoke his last sentence, the [Countdown Hourglass] struggling through a few more seconds of flashing red light, gradually came to a halt.


    Qiu Tu did not let his guard down, he quietly waited a few more seconds. Seeing that the [Countdown Hourglass] truly did not resume its countdown, he finally allowed himself to secretly exhale in relief.


    ''I should have won the bet, right?''


    The reason Qiu Tu took such a risky gambit, boldly proposing his cooperation with the Security Department, was actually based on a reason.


    After the fervor of last night, Qiu Tu continuously reviewed the entire case with Qin Shuman and sorted out their plans moving forward.


    As a result, they stumbled upon a difficult issue: that as soon as the Security Department made a move, Jia Shu and Yan Chen would know immediately that Qiu Tu had "defected".


    After all, to this point, all the clues and pieces of evidence for the case were in Qiu Tu''s hands. The Security Department had no pretext to act.


    Even if Qin Shuman could find another entry point to force an intervention... given Yan Chen and Jia Shu''s cunning and suspicion, it was unlikely they would believe in such a coincidence.


    Therefore, after much consideration, they felt it was better to take the initiative in disclosing this rather than being found out. To bring the matter out into the open.


    In doing so, as long as the reasons were valid, even if Yan Chen and Jia Shu might still be suspicious, it would surely be more credible than if they discovered it on their own.


    As for what reason could make Qiu Tu''s collaboration with the Security Department appear reasonable?


    After much thought, they ultimately decided on the reason just mentioned by Qiu Tu.


    It''s actually quite simple.


    In this world, every decision is driven by interests.


    The reason Yan Chen and Jia Shu had conflicts over this case, in the end, was due to a lack of unified interests.


    Jia Shu had two "interests" in this case:


    1. The promise of brand-new surveillance equipment from Vice President Tian.


    2. The desire not to confront City Hall and other Xinjie City forces directly.


    Yan Chen also had two "interests" in this case:


    1. To put Jia Shu in his place.


    2. To strike against the City Hall faction.


    Both of their first "interests" had been nearly satisfied, leaving only the second "interest" unfulfilled, which is their core conflict concerning this case.


    And it was because of this core conflict that Qiu Tu, caught between the two, found himself in a difficult position. He was damned if he did, and damned if he didn''t...


    At this time, if Qiu Tu came up with a new approach, one that does not affect the Investigation Bureau''s interests, simultaneously resolving the conflict between the two, and managing to shift the blame from himself, wouldn''t everything seem logical?


    And wouldn''t the involvement of the Security Department shift from unacceptable to a wait-and-see situation?


    Now, having heard Qiu Tu''s explanation, Jia Shu indeed lapsed back into silence.


    This was the most Jia Shu had ever been silent in the many conversations between him and Qiu Tu. It was clear that each step of the conversation today was a bit beyond his expectations, necessitating his continuous reflection...


    But Qiu Tu did not give Jia Shu too much time to think, he lobbed another bombshell, "Minister, I''m not sure if I should say this..."


    "Actually... what I''m doing is entirely to save you."


    -------


    There''s one more chapter, but I can''t finish it tonight. I will get up tomorrow morning to complete it and aim to post it around 12 noon.

 Chapter 130 - 111: No Ones Home Tonight (10,000 Words - Please Subscribe)

    It has to be said that Qiu Tu really gave Jia Shu many surprises today.


    In the past, although Qiu Tu was not exactly obsequious in Jia Shu''s presence, each time his spirit was tense. As an experienced interrogator like Jia Shu, he could see Qiu Tu''s nervousness at a glance.


    But today.... Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly reveal his edge.


    From the start of the phone call, he showed a demeanor ready to contend with me.


    Natural, composed. Unyielding, uncompromising. Later, he even directly threw a heavy bomb my way.


    Honestly, even Jia Shu, who had seen a lot of the world, had a hard time imagining what kind of mindset Qiu Tu had to dare reveal he had leaked case information to the Security Department.


    Wasn''t he afraid I would charge him with dereliction of duty and take him down?


    Wasn''t he afraid I would become furiously enraged and execute him secretly?


    It was precisely because of this curiosity and surprise that Jia Shu repeatedly became silent, contemplating Qiu Tu''s changes.


    Guessing what kind of trump card did Qiu Tu have to be so confident.


    However, before Jia Shu could figure it out, Qiu Tu dropped another heavy bomb...


    "Are you doing all this to save me?" Jia Shu repeated Qiu Tu''s words with a laugh, interest in his eyes almost spilling over.


    He got up, walked to the VIP box windows of the racecourse''s fifth-floor viewing platform, and looking at the torrential rain outside, he asked with a light chuckle, "Chief Qiu, where does this idea come from?"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu was also standing beside the window in the empty conference room of the Political Department, gazing distantly at Xinjie City, shrouded in rain and mist.


    The two of them were clearly in different locations, yet it was as though they were facing each other across the boundless space, across the heavy rain, gazing at each other from afar...


    Qiu Tu said softly, "Minister. In fact, today in addition to arresting the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin and Third Master Qin, I arrested a few other people as well."


    This incident happened in a private box, and coupled with Chief Huang''s gag order, it had not been leaked yet.


    Therefore, Jia Shu was also somewhat surprised and he asked, "Who else?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Education Bureau''s Section Chief Kong, Environment and Sanitation Bureau''s Deputy Section Chief Zhuang, Commerce and Economic Development Bureau''s Deputy Section Chief Yuan, and also Civil Affairs Bureau''s Section Chief Bai...."


    Listening to this list, Jia Shu on the phone slightly furrowed his brows.


    But before he could speak, Qiu Tu then said, "Are you very curious, Minister? What kind of coincidence let me just so happen to encounter them?"


    "And what kind of coincidence allowed me to... silently bag them all in one swoop?"


    Jia Shu chuckled twice and teased, "Chief Qiu has already learned to answer his own questions, it seems."


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind Jia Shu''s sarcasm. He continued calmly, "I was introduced to them by Chief Huang of the Logistics Department, who acted as the facilitator."


    While looking at the heavy rain outside the window and listening to the sound of the rain, he analyzed, "Today, when I first met Chief Huang, he said he wanted to introduce a few friends to me, to help make some connections for us."


    "At the time, I actually doubted Chief Huang''s purpose, his identity. I wondered if he played some important role in this case."


    "But when I easily coaxed insider information about the case from the mouths of those section chiefs, and just as easily caught them...."


    "A different thought arose in my mind instead."


    Jia Shu on the phone evidently guessed Qiu Tu''s thoughts too, as the smile slowly faded from his face, his eyes as deep as the rainstorm before him....


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Could it be that from the start, Chief Huang was actually helping me?"


    "He was instructed by someone or some power, to trick those section chiefs beforehand, allowing them to expose themselves before me."


    "Then... not only did he enable a breakthrough in my case, but he also outlined the full extent of the case...."


    "The Environment and Sanitation Bureau of City Hall, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Education Bureau, and the Civil Affairs Bureau...."


    At that, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He asked in return, "Minister, I believe by now, you must have guessed who is behind Chief Huang, right?"


    Jia Shu chuckled and feigned ignorance, "Who might that be?"


    Qiu Tu said somewhat dramatically, "It''s the Bureau Chief, Minister!"


    "We all thought the Bureau Chief was too high and mighty to bother with such a small case. But, actually... he had calculated every move!"


    "He is determined to get this case done! Nobody can stop him, no matter who they are!"


    "Today''s arrangement is both a helping hand and a warning."


    "He''s telling me, and he''s telling you. He has a thousand, ten thousand ways to advance the case!"


    "Letting us know we cannot play any tricks!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s emotions gradually subsided, and he became calm again as he said, "Although I''m not clear on the reason that has kept you on the opposite side of the Bureau Chief in the ''Yin Caimei Case''...." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I think if things keep going like this, the Bureau Chief will soon abandon you, abandon me."


    "Therefore, after much consideration, I found the only way to perfectly resolve the conflict between you and the Bureau Chief was to cooperate with the Security Department, letting them face the brunt."


    "Minister, I really am trying to save you...."


    "So, believe me, Minister! I will definitely handle this case well! I''ll satisfy everyone!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu on the phone remained silent for a long time as if pondering the information in Qiu Tu''s words.


    After a while, a mysterious smile spread across his face, and crimson light began to flicker in his pupils.


    He laughed soundlessly, the distorted reflection of his face shimmering off the rain-obscured window, looking particularly unsettling¡­


    ...


    [Jia Shu''s suspicion +0, satisfaction +28]


    After hanging up the phone, he looked at the prompt that floated up in front of him.


    There were also Jia Shu''s words lingering in his ear, "Chief Qiu, it seems I have misunderstood you, so go ahead and boldly do as you please!"


    "I''ll cover for you against the external pressures."


    "You can come to me with anything..."


    To be honest, Qiu Tu didn''t feel much reassured. On the contrary ... his sense of urgency had intensified.


    Last night, when discussing today''s plan with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu actually knew there was a key factor that could make or break the plan: how deeply Jia Shu was involved in the whole case.


    As the top officer of the Political Department and one of the nine senior members of the Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu had absolute disposal rights over the entire case.


    Even if Qiu Tu held the "Imperial Sword" given by Yan Chen, if Jia Shu wanted to take over the case by force and release people, Qiu Tu couldn''t stop him.


    Therefore, after arresting everyone, Qiu Tu didn''t go straight to work on the case but instead waited patiently for Jia Shu''s call.


    He needed to confirm from Jia Shu''s call the extent of pressure he was under and... whether he would flip the table or not.


    From the initial tit-for-tat, unyielding stance to the subsequent dropping of bombshells one after another, it was actually a process of "pressuring" and "stress testing" Jia Shu!


    Now, it seemed the effect was quite good. At least the worst possibility hadn''t happened.


    But for some unknown reason, Qiu Tu felt an inexplicable sense of crisis.


    He always felt he had to solve the case as soon as possible. Otherwise... there might really be danger!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t dare to delay. He glanced once more at the torrential rain merging earth and sky outside the window and then stepped towards the outside, ready to interrogate the prisoners.


    In times of emergency, extraordinary measures are necessary.


    He was ready to use his [Cataclysmic Ability] to interrogate all the suspects in one go!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu left the empty conference room and headed to the adjacent temporary office of the investigative team, ready to bring people in for questioning.


    But just as he pushed open the door to the temporary office, Qiu Tu found that none of the investigation team members were there.


    In the office... there was only the beautiful, young woman Liu Fuping. At that moment, she was leaning over her desk, rummaging through documents...


    Startled by the sound of the door, Liu Fuping quickly straightened up.


    But when she turned and saw Qiu Tu entering, a smile actually appeared on her face, and then... she bent down to continue her search through the documents.


    Today, she might have received a message on short notice and rushed to the Investigation Bureau, so she wasn''t in uniform but dressed in a somewhat professional casual attire:


    A plain white female shirt and a black tight-fitting mini skirt, outlining the perfect curves of her slender waist and full buttocks.


    Moreover, as she backed Qiu Tu while rummaging through documents, with hands braced on the table, legs slightly bent, and her buttocks lifted, there was a rather inviting pose...


    At that moment, Qiu Tu admitted that his "fist" had gotten hard.


    "Remember to close the door~~" Liu Fuping seemed to sense Qiu Tu''s reaction; she slightly turned, and seductively winked at Qiu Tu.


    ''This woman is seducing me...''


    After clarifying this point in his mind, Qiu Tu closed the door behind him, and then walked over without hesitation, reaching out to give Liu Fuping''s full bottom a smack!


    A crisp "smack!" reverberated, wave after wave.


    But Liu Fuping acted as if she noticed nothing, didn''t even cover with her hands, and just blushed while straightening up, grabbing Qiu Tu''s collar, and said in a soft and sticky voice, "Chief, my house is empty tonight... do you want to come over and ''do it''?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu realized. It''s really not easy for a man to strive for a career.


    On the road of his career sprint, there were always various temptations waiting for him.


    But fortunately, having just undergone a round of cleansing with facial wash at Emerald Fort, Qiu Tu could barely resist Liu Fuping''s lure, and even spared the effort to analyze...


    So he gently embraced the beautiful young woman before him, holding soft jade in his arms, incomparably comfortable.


    Then he leaned into Liu Fuping''s ear and whispered softly, "Sister Liu... the first rule of being a spy is to keep a cool head."


    "You are too anxious today. You''ve exposed the forces behind you..."


    ----


    Third chapter is up, still going for a ten thousand words update tonight, ask for Monthly Tickets!


    To be honest, I really overestimated the capabilities of my clumsy hands; I have to write nearly ten thousand words a day from morning till evening. I''ve only been sleeping 4-5 hours for the last three days.


    But... I will try my best to keep it up!


    Finally, ask for Monthly Tickets! Ask for subscriptions!


    I''ll probably update around 2 AM tonight, so everyone can read it in the morning, haha.

 Chapter 131 - 112: Discovering Liu Fupings True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    If it were the Liu Fuping of the past, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s probing, she would have likely been a bit panicked inside.


    Even though she underwent professional training, her relatively average skills always resulted in quite a few slip-ups.


    But this period of time, following Qiu Tu''s learning and experiences, and even having had an epiphany last night thanks to Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping had clearly grown and changed.


    Therefore, faced with Qiu Tu''s probing, she wasn''t flustered in the least; she even hooked her arm around Qiu Tu''s neck and giggled, "Heeheehee."


    With a slight lift of her eyes, her gaze full of provocation, she teased, "Since it''s like this, why doesn''t the superior try to guess which power is behind me?"


    Looking at Liu Fuping''s seductive manner, Qiu Tu felt an itch in his heart; ever since this beautiful woman had her awakening, she had become increasingly bold and flirtatious with him, often making it hard for him to restrain himself.


    However, it was precisely this thrill that made him increasingly interested in their cat-and-mouse game.


    So, he reached out, caressed Liu Fuping''s cheek as soft as a young girl''s, and asked with a smile, "If I guess correctly, what do I get?"


    "A reward, huh...?" A soft light twinkled in Liu Fuping''s peach blossom eyes as she leaned in toward Qiu Tu''s ear and whispered softly, "How about I... spend the night with you?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu scoffed disdainfully, "You sure that''s a benefit for me? It seems more like you''re rewarding yourself."


    "Hehehe..." Liu Fuping couldn''t help but laugh at Qiu Tu''s words.


    With a mischievous smile on her face and looking cunningly at Qiu Tu, she boldly suggested, "How about this... Director Tang and I... both spend the night with you... What do you think?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hissed as images of Liu Fuping''s creamy skin and Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored skin mingling on a bed began to dance in his head.


    Thus, he couldn''t help but raise his price and said, "Four nights."


    "Deal." Liu Fuping agreed with a smile.


    Qiu Tu, "...Six nights."


    "Heeheehee..." Liu Fuping was so amused by Qiu Tu''s unserious demeanor that she couldn''t straighten her back from laughter, her chest shaking continuously.


    After the laughter had passed, Liu Fuping raised her eyes with a feigned pout and said, "Are you going to guess or not? If you don''t guess, you won''t get a single night."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, also reverted back to his serious self. Stretching lazily, he casually said with a light smile, "I''ll guess... you''re from... the Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu''s statement sounded like a truism.


    If someone else were beside them, they would probably think Qiu Tu was mental: as an agent of the Political Department, of course Liu Fuping would be backed by the Investigation Bureau.


    But... Liu Fuping immediately understood what Qiu Tu meant, so her complexion couldn''t help but change.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu teasingly smiled and gently patted Liu Fuping''s shoulder, "Looks like I guessed correctly."


    "Let me guess which city''s Investigation Bureau you belong to around Xinjie City?"


    Liu Fuping, upon hearing this, stared intently at Qiu Tu, as if she wanted to personally witness him guess wrong.


    But Qiu Tu clearly disappointed her, "Eastern City Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu, with a smile in his eyes, continued, "Am I right? Agent Liu from the Political Department of the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    Even as she tried her best to conceal it, Liu Fuping''s pupils contracted slightly, and her body stiffened for a moment when Qiu Tu revealed her identity.


    After a moment, she smiled radiantly, denying, "The superior is joking. I''m just an ordinary agent from our Xinjie City. I''m certainly not some spy from another city''s Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu smiled and lifted Liu Fuping''s chin, asking, "So, are you trying to back out of the deal?"


    Liu Fuping giggled twice and replied, "Not really."


    Speaking, she stepped back, disengaging from Qiu Tu''s flirtatious advances, and asked, "I''m just a bit curious why the superior thinks I''m from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau? Do you have any evidence, or... is it just a random guess?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping step back, Qiu Tu didn''t follow. While walking to the table and tidying up the documents, he said with a laugh, "People like us who work on the secret front must always be keen to notice details and analyze information."


    "First of all, City Hall is very concerned with the ''Yin Caimei case,'' but you didn''t seem to take it seriously. Plus, City Hall clearly has no idea about the progress of my case; otherwise, they wouldn''t have been unprepared today."


    "Therefore, you''re not likely to be City Hall''s spy."


    Liu Fuping nodded thoughtfully upon hearing this.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Next, you''re not a member of the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    "The reason is similar to that of City Hall: Yin Caimei is a key figure in the Anti-government Armed Forces. Whether it''s to save her, kill her, or to use the opportunity to create discord among the three main authorities of Xinjie City, you have too many reasons to be invested in this case."


    "But you, yet again, were not..."


    "Moreover, the first time you revealed your identity as a spy in front of me, even though you seemed a bit panicked, there was no fear or confusion."


    "This indicates that you know even if your identity is exposed, you can get the necessary protection, with no threat to your life." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Such confidence in one''s own identity isn''t something that a spy from the Anti-government Armed Forces could possess."


    Liu Fuping looked a bit surprised, clearly not expecting Qiu Tu to still remember that night when her identity was tricked out of her long ago.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had finished tidying up the documents on the table. As he packed the materials into a file bag, he continued his analysis, "Furthermore, you''re not a spy from The military."


    "The reason is quite simple; your role as a spy is clearly aimed at Director Tang."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu glanced at her and then said with a smile, "But I happen to know who The military''s spy is around Director Tang."

 Chapter 132 - 112: Discovering Liu Fupings True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    "During the initial establishment of Xinjie City, each agency had very few inside agents, and they had to maximize their effectiveness. Therefore, the probability of placing two moles beside Director Tang at the same time is too small."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping was startled and suddenly realized that Qiu Tu indeed seemed to have logically and methodically eliminated all the distracting options.


    But she still felt somewhat unconvinced.


    She asked, "Then why do you guess that I am a mole sent by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    Qiu Tu smiled.


    "It''s quite simple. You are not a mole for the Anti-government Armed Forces, so you can only be a mole from one of the three major power institutions. And since you are not a mole from the three major power institutions in Xinjie City, you can only be a mole from another city."


    "Your interrogation skills are sophisticated, your methods cruel, and you are extremely familiar with the various regulations of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Therefore, I speculate you''re likely a colleague. In other words... you are also an agent of the Investigation Bureau."


    Qiu Tu said, "Coincidentally, someone once talked to me about the situation of the cities surrounding Xinjie."


    "He mentioned that the chiefs of the Investigation Bureaus in the six or seven cities around Xinjie City have good relationships with Yan Chen. Only Director Liu from [Eastern City] and Yan Chen have some enmity."


    "Thus, your likelihood of being a mole from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau has increased significantly."


    Speaking of which, Qiu Tu patted the documents he had placed on the table and said with a smile, "And what really confirmed your identity was the unusual behavior you exhibited today."


    "Knowing you were a mole and worried about a leak, I deliberately did not inform you when executing the entire arrest plan today."


    "Yet, you rushed over here on your own and, uncharacteristically, started sifting through the files related to the ''Yin Caimei Case.''"


    Qiu Tu walked over to the window, gazing at the continuous drizzle outside, and began to muse aloud,


    "You never cared about this case before, so why have you suddenly become interested in it now?"


    "Very simple, because... the power behind you has suddenly taken an interest."


    "But why weren''t they interested before, and now they suddenly are?"


    Qiu Tu turned around, smiling at Liu Fuping, "Because... I made a big fuss today. Xinjie City Hall took a vehement stance, opposing our Investigation Bureau."


    "The power behind you suddenly realized this might be an opportunity to strike at Yan Chen or to cause him trouble."


    "Therefore, they sent you to steal secrets."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu laughingly asked, "I wonder, am I right or wrong, Agent Liu from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?"


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +10]


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu with a complex expression in her eyes.


    Indeed, Qiu Tu''s analysis was well-founded and logically meticulous. It was only after she listened carefully that she realized she had unwittingly exposed so much information in her daily interactions with Qiu Tu.


    This discovery also made her aware once again of the gap between herself and Qiu Tu.


    She couldn''t help but reflect: if she were in Qiu Tu''s shoes, encountering herself, could she deduce her own identity from such minimal and fragmented information? S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No sooner had this thought arisen than she knew the answer: No. She would not even have noticed those small, fragmented pieces of information.


    As she thought this, she looked at Qiu Tu with passionate, peach-blossom eyes, thinking... perhaps it wouldn''t be so bad to keep learning from Qiu Tu?


    If Qiu Tu were willing to share his knowledge, perhaps in no time at all, she could become a qualified spy and agent?


    With that in mind, she threw Qiu Tu a coquettishly annoyed glance and said, "I owe you four nights."


    After speaking, she turned to leave.


    Just then, Qiu Tu''s voice came from behind her, "Six nights."


    Liu Fuping stumbled, almost falling over. She turned back and gave Qiu Tu an irritated look.


    Qiu Tu held up two fingers, "And it''s for two people."


    A blush spread across Liu Fuping''s face, and with a light huff, she turned and walked away.


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +2]


    With a smile, Qiu Tu watched Liu Fuping''s retreating figure, a thoughtful expression in his eyes.


    He had spent half a day playing around with Liu Fuping amidst his busy schedule for a reason of his own.


    If he remembered correctly, Secretary Bai had indeed solemnly mentioned that the Chief of the Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Yan Chen didn''t get along.


    Secretary Bai even hinted that if Qiu Tu was to flee, he could head in the direction of Eastern City.


    Moreover, the fact that the Eastern City Investigation Bureau had planted a spy within their sibling unit, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, was enough to show that their relationship had reached a point of extreme animosity.


    Qiu Tu now openly relied on himself and covertly on Tang Feifei to keep Jia Shu in check, but... he had no way of dealing with Yan Chen.


    And in Xinjie City, while the relationship between the three giants of City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and the military wasn''t harmonious, it hadn''t reached the point of open confrontation, leaving Qiu Tu no external forces to borrow from.


    So... once he guessed the power behind Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu became interested.


    If he couldn''t borrow power from within Xinjie City, could he introduce an external force to balance or deal with Yan Chen?


    Thus, Qiu Tu was direct in exposing Liu Fuping''s identity today.


    Moreover, this was just the first step of Qiu Tu''s plan. It was the preparation he made in advance to deal with Yan Chen.


    Next, Qiu Tu would make more contact with Liu Fuping, slowly pulling her and the forces behind her into his camp, and amassing more strength. Until... he could take down Yan Chen!


    Though it was still early for this matter, a "chess player" must have the quality of thinking ten steps ahead while taking one.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu pressed the matter to the back of his mind and picked up the organized files on the desk, heading towards the Guard Room.


    It was time to see the fruits of today''s efforts.


    And... it was time for the Yin Caimei case to come to an end.


    ...


    Accompanied by the "hustle and bustle" of the rain, Qiu Tu arrived at the Political Department''s Guard Room.


    At this time, his confidants Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Ding Xiaoliu, and Zhu Huoyan were already waiting there.


    Perhaps because they had suddenly arrested so many prominent figures, they were excited, agitated, as well as wandering and uneasy, and could only relieve the pressure by talking to each other.


    "Do you think... after capturing the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin, we won''t run into any trouble?"


    "There shouldn''t be any, right?... Our boss has a special arrest warrant and authorization letter specially authorized by the Investigation Bureau Chief. Everything we do is legal and legitimate, no one can find fault..."


    "Indeed, it''s legal and legitimate, but... if we can''t extract any useful information from their mouths, and if they take revenge on us after being released, what then?"


    "Don''t overthink it. That won''t happen."


    "I heard that City Hall is very angry about our arrests of these wealthy businessmen and the section chief, and they''ve been putting pressure on our bureau. We might not have much time for interrogation..."


    "This case is a bit complicated, and it may not be possible to get results in a short period of time."


    "Exactly."


    Having become a Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu''s vision and hearing had improved a lot compared to before.


    So even at a distance, he could clearly hear the worried chatter of his confidants.


    But he didn''t say anything and confidently walked into the guard area with his documents and files.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu arrive, the few confidants who were quietly conversing immediately stopped their chat, and persons like Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Eagle swiftly stood up to greet him.


    Seeing them, Qiu Tu immediately praised with a smile, "You''ve all worked hard."


    Then he glanced over the twenty or so confidants present and noticed their nervousness.


    He didn''t let everyone linger in that atmosphere and instead swiftly boosted morale.


    -------


    It''s still 3 chapters, 10k characters. I''ll update 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter which I am still writing will be posted around 12 o''clock.

 Chapter 133 - 113: Case Solved in Two Minutes (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "After we wrap up this case, I''ll treat everyone to a good meal! I''ll give everyone a holiday! And I''ll hand out a big red envelope to each person!"


    People always have desires.


    No matter in which era or world, work is for the sake of a better life.


    Especially in times of chaos with no unified government and without so much sense of homeland, there are only eight words that matter: survive and live well!


    Therefore, offering money, vacations, and meals is the simplest and most effective way to win people''s hearts and boost morale!


    So, visibly, the likes of Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu, and Zhu Huoyan all showed expressions of joy on their faces.


    One after another they shouted, "Thank you, commander!" "Thanks, Chief!" "Thanks, Brother Tu!" louder than the next!


    In front of Qiu Tu, a series of prompts like [Loyalty +1, +2] popped up.


    Qiu Tu, seeing this, paid no mind but continued, "As for the case, you all don''t need to worry."


    "I will personally review the case and strive to clarify everything today."


    Maybe because Qiu Tu''s statement was too exaggerated, his confidants, one by one, all looked a bit surprised.


    ''Clear up the case today?''


    ''How could that be possible?''


    Most of the confidants present were members of the investigative team, so they knew just how perplexing and complex the case was.


    The deceased had no fatal injuries, no residue of lethal drugs; the cause of death was sudden cardiac arrest. In these chaotic times, this was almost an insoluble mystery.


    And although the fact that the deceased was a spy within the anti-government armed forces was certainly established, her superiors and subordinates had not yet been exposed.


    Everyone knew that collusion with the anti-government armed forces was a capital offence. So... even if the suspects caught today really included her superiors and subordinates, they would not admit it to save their own lives.


    Thus... most investigators considered this case a long-term tug of war; this was the source of their anxiety.


    Now, Qiu Tu suddenly claimed he could solve the case today?


    Even though during this time, Qiu Tu had built up a great image in everyone''s hearts, they couldn''t help but doubt it the first thing in their minds...


    Among the confidants, the most tactful Cao Dabiao even took the initiative to offer Qiu Tu an out.


    He said with a sly grin, "Commander, don''t set such an exaggerated plan. We know you''re mighty, and we believe you can do it, but it will also put a lot of pressure on us."


    "Let''s take our time investigating, shall we not be too hasty?"


    Qiu Tu, being a perceptive person, immediately understood Cao Dabiao''s thinking upon hearing his words.


    After scanning the eyes of the investigators present and seeing through their thoughts, he did not refute Cao Dabiao''s kindness but instead went along with it and said, "Haha, alright. Since you''ve brought it up, then we''ll take our time and not rush."


    "That''s more like it, Commander!" Cao Dabiao chuckled "hehe," behaving very obsequiously.


    Qiu Tu laughed and patted his shoulder before once again scanning the investigators present.


    Indeed, hearing that Qiu Tu had withdrawn his exaggerated plan, all the investigators couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief, no longer so worried.


    Seeing this reaction, Qiu Tu did not say much.


    He knew his confidants had his best interests at heart. But... what they did not know was that Cataclysmics and ordinary people truly had an unbridgeable chasm between them!


    To them, a case that seemed incredibly difficult, to Qiu Tu, might be incredibly simple.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu pondered briefly before calling out a few names, "Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun."


    As Qiu Tu called their names, the four confidants stepped forward.


    Qiu Tu instructed, "You will join me in interrogating the prisoners."


    "Yes, Brother Tu!" "Yes, Commander!" all four responded.


    Qiu Tu then turned to Liu Fuping, who had slipped in unnoticed at some point, and summoned, "Liu Fuping, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the three stepped forward.


    Qiu Tu instructed, "You will be in charge of managing the external work. Escorting and guarding the prisoners, these responsibilities will all fall to you."


    "I have only one requirement: ensure there is a continuous flow of prisoners in the interrogation room!"


    "My time is precious! It cannot be wasted!"


    The three clearly did not fully grasp Qiu Tu''s meaning, but still nodded their heads and agreed, "Yes, Commander!"


    After these arrangements, Qiu Tu called out a few other names. Some were instructed to prepare the interrogation room, others to set up recording equipment, and yet others to coordinate with the Special Service Department, ready to mobilize at any moment to search for evidence. In short, he meticulously arranged everything down to the smallest detail.


    And among these preparations, perhaps the most peculiar was this: for such an important case, Qiu Tu chose not to use a large interrogation room but specifically requested a small one of only a few square meters...


    Yet, trusting in Qiu Tu, the investigators raised no objections and began preparations following Qiu Tu''s directions.


    Soon, the entire investigative team was running as smoothly and swiftly as clockwork...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Emerald Fort, the observation deck on the 6th floor of the racetrack.


    As an area accessible only to the real power figures like the Deputy Director, the Bureau Chief, the members of the Municipal Committee, and the City Hall, it was subtly yet lavishly decorated.


    Apart from the public area''s hall, almost every bigwig who could enter this level had a separate suite.


    Inside, every conceivable item was available, and should there be any additional needs, the staff of the Emerald Fort would even go out and make purchases directly.


    At this moment, Tang Feifei was sitting in her suite, quietly sipping wine while listening to the report of her assistant, Su Xiaowan.


    "Bureau Chief, Chief Qiu acted exceptionally swiftly this time. In just a few short minutes, he managed to arrest all the Four Major Transportation Merchants, Director Qin Zhengguang, and Third Master Qin."


    "And that''s not all. I found out that Chief Qiu was actually attending a gathering invited by Chief Huang, along with several section chiefs from the City Hall."


    "However, halfway through the gathering, Chief Qiu suddenly arrested all of them as well and brought them to the Investigation Bureau."


    Su Xiaowan paused before adding, "Now Chief Qiu has rushed back to the Investigation Bureau, and it''s said he''s going to personally interrogate these suspects."


    After listening to Su Xiaowan''s report, Tang Feifei waved her hand emotionlessly with her wheat-colored face.


    Su Xiaowan bowed slightly and then exited to the outer part of the suite, leaving Tang Feifei alone.


    Seeing Su Xiaowan leave, Tang Feifei then got up from the sofa. She tidied her short hair and walked with her wine glass to the floor-to-ceiling windows of the suite. As she admired the heavy rain outside, a meaningful smile appeared on her face.


    ''Not bad at all, little man....''


    ''I didn''t expect you to withstand the pressure without my help.''


    ''Then, continue to show me your capabilities....''


    Having said this, a faint amber glow flickered in the depths of her pupils, and her wheat-colored face was filled with anticipation for her prey....


    ..... S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When loyalty increased, the efficiency with which the subordinates handled their tasks also noticeably improved.


    Thus, under one command from Qiu Tu, a small interrogation room was quickly set up.


    After installing the video and audio equipment and preparing the interrogation table, the interrogation began without delay.


    Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao, and Chen Feng took their seats at the interrogation table, Ah-Kun handled the recording of video and audio, while Eagle was responsible for conveying messages.


    Qiu Tu went through the list of suspects he was planning to interrogate today and, after confirming the questions he wanted to ask, he turned to Eagle and gave an order, "Bring Qian Dafu for questioning and have Qi Yun prepare."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Eagle hurried out to make arrangements.


    Soon after, Eagle returned, followed by another door being opened from the outside: Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan escorted Qian Dafu into the interrogation room.


    They handcuffed Qian Dafu to the suspect''s seat, saluted Qiu Tu, and then left the room.


    Qian Dafu was not as weak as his wife; he was clearly a tough nut to crack.


    Even now, trapped in his plight, he spoke arrogantly, "I''m telling you! My father-in-law is Director Bai, and I know many members of the Municipal Committee too!"


    "You barging into my house and capturing me is far from over!"


    "Once I get out, I''ll make sure each of you is peeled of that ''skin'' you wear! Let''s see if you can still strut around with undue authority without it!"


    Seeing how arrogant Qian Dafu was, the faces of Chen Feng and Eagle darkened, and Cao Dabiao also looked indignant. Ah-Kun... even wanted to step forward to give Qian Dafu a taste of pain.


    However, after Ah-Kun took two steps, Qiu Tu stopped him, "Ah-Kun, don''t cause trouble."


    Ah-Kun glared at Qian Dafu before returning to his original position.


    Qiu Tu, on the other hand, glanced at his documents and then said expressionlessly, "Qian Dafu, I''m going to start your first interrogation now."


    "Whatever I ask, please answer accordingly."


    Qian Dafu cocked his head and scoffed, "I won''t say a thing. Someone will come to save me."


    Qiu Tu, "Did you kill Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu, "I killed her."


    Seeing Qian Dafu''s defiance just a moment ago, and his outright refusal to cooperate, Cao Dabiao, Eagle, and the others were ready to step forward and beat him¡ªthis case could already proceed with a confession under duress.


    However, when they heard Qiu Tu ask whether Qian Dafu killed Yin Caimei and he swiftly admitted it, they were all dumbfounded.


    Wait a minute, did I hear that wrong?


    Shouldn''t Qian Dafu have denied it?


    At that moment, Qiu Tu, with no trace of emotion, asked, "Please face the camera and repeat what you just said. Did you kill Yin Caimei or not?"


    Sitting upright and facing the camera with a serious expression, Qian Dafu said, "I killed Yin Caimei."


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun: ???


    This... is the case cracked?


    Is this for real?


    They looked at Qian Dafu, then at Qiu Tu in confusion; it felt like something they were unaware of had happened, but they didn''t know what...


    -----


    Third update with 10k words, haha. Chapter 3 is still being written and will be posted around 12 am. Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 134 - 114: Somethings Wrong with This Interrogation (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    But at this time, Qiu Tu paid no attention to their shock and suspicion.


    Their doubts would be answered during the following interrogation, but not now.


    What Qiu Tu needed to do now was to interrogate all the prisoners as quickly as possible, secure the testimony and evidence, and then lift his Cataclysmic ability.


    Indeed, for the interrogation this time, Qiu Tu had also invested heavily. He had directly activated his Cataclysmic ability¡ª"Order Space."


    Moreover, the rule he set today was that "within the Order Space, everyone must tell the truth in response to his questions."


    Such a straightforward setting brought about terrifying effects.


    Qian Dafu was so arrogant at the beginning, so uncooperative, but when faced with the rule set by the Cataclysmic ability, he could only reluctantly tell the truth, despite being extremely unwilling.


    This was the dimensional strike of the Cataclysmics on ordinary people.


    As Qiu Tu marveled at the strength of the Cataclysmics and the Cataclysmic treasures, he continued to ask, "What method did you use to kill Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu''s face clearly revealed a look of conflict and fear; he clearly didn''t want to answer Qiu Tu''s question, but... under the effect of the Cataclysmic ability, he was forced to honestly confess his crime.


    "I... I gave Yin Caimei a gift at a gathering once. It was... a book, a Banned Book."


    "It was a Banned Book accompanied by a Catastrophe Curse. As long as one looks through it for a long period, the soul would gradually be eroded, and then with a remote command from me, I could manipulate her health, even... her life."


    Qiu Tu listened to Qian Dafu''s account with an expressionless face, nodded slightly, feeling that the truth behind Yin Caimei''s death was almost as he had guessed and deduced, and was not beyond his expectations.


    But at this moment, the thoughts of Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, and Ah-Kun, who were by his side, were entirely different from his.


    What? Banned Book? Catastrophe Curse?


    Long-time reading erodes the soul? A single command can cause death?


    What on earth is all this about!


    If they weren''t certain they hadn''t gone mad, the four of them would have even started to wonder if there was something wrong with their sanity.


    They looked at Qian Dafu and then at Qiu Tu several times, trying to understand what exactly was happening.


    Then they saw that Qiu Tu was not the least bit surprised, and even continued to ask questions indifferently. This discovery gradually led them to speculate: this case seemed to have a tremendous "inside story."


    And this "inside story", Brother Tu/the chief probably knew all along, hence his lack of surprise!


    With this thought, their hearts settled slightly, and they continued to listen to the conversation between Qiu Tu and Qian Dafu.


    Qiu Tu asked, "How did you remotely control the death of Yin Caimei?"


    Qian Dafu sincerely replied, "That set of Cataclysmic treasures consisted of two pieces, both printed out by the ''Cursed Printer'', one being a book and the other a notebook, named ''Cursed Blueprint''."


    "As long as you write down the health conditions of the person on the notebook, the person who possesses the book will be subjected to the corresponding curse."


    "After learning that Yin Caimei had been captured by the Political Department, I was worried she would leak our secrets. So, I wrote in the notebook the condition ''sudden cardiac death after 10 hours''."


    "In this way, as long as she came into contact with the book, and there were no treasures nearby to shield against Catastrophe Powers, the curse would be planted, and she would die suddenly 10 hours later."


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and continued to inquire, "Where is that notebook now?"


    Qian Dafu said, "It''s in a safe in a hidden compartment in my basement."


    Qiu Tu asked, "The safe''s combination."


    Qian Dafu replied, "486883284."


    Qiu Tu took a pen and paper, wrote down the relevant information, then casually passed it to Eagle.


    By this point, Eagle was already dumbfounded.


    Compared to Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, who had been working in the Political Department for a long time, he and Ah-Kun had only recently joined. So this was his first time participating in an interrogation by the Political Department.


    Seeing Qian Dafu, who had been so arrogant just before, now answering every question under the influence of some unknown power, he had only one thought:


    Is every interrogation this dramatic in the Political Department?


    No wonder all the powers in Xinjie City are terrified of the Political Department!


    If he had this kind of ability, he would keep all his enemies awake at night!


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu handed him the note, he first paused, then returned to his senses, accepted the note, and quickly left the interrogation room to arrange for the "Field Operations Team" waiting outside to retrieve the evidence.


    After doing all this, Eagle stood at the entrance of the interrogation room for two seconds, suppressing the intense heartbeat that had started earlier, then hurried back into the interrogation room, afraid to miss any part of the interrogation process.


    Because in those two seconds, he also realized that something was off about this interrogation!


    Qiu Tu could easily interrogate all the prisoners by himself, so why did he need to call the four of them in to assist?


    Was Qiu Tu trying to show them another side of this world through this method? A new Xinjie... with various supernatural powers!


    No ordinary person could resist the allure of supernatural power, and Eagle was no exception.


    So he was tempted. He knew that this might be the second chance to change his life!


    Therefore, he had to seize this opportunity.


    With this thought, Eagle hurried back to the interrogation room.


    Fortunately, he hadn''t missed anything. As soon as he stepped into the interrogation room, he heard Qiu Tu ask, "Where did you obtain that set of Cataclysmic treasures?"


    Hearing this question, Eagle also couldn''t help but listen intently.


    Qian Dafu''s face showed even more struggle, but he still uncontrollably spoke the truth, "From the Qin Family. It was given to me by Third Master Qin."


    Upon hearing this, Eagle looked up in surprise at Qiu Tu.


    However, what surprised him was that Qiu Tu seemed to have anticipated this, showing no surprise but instead continued to ask calmly, "Then do you have contact or cooperation with the United Front and other anti-government armed forces?"


    Qian Dafu looked like he was about to give up, he nodded woodly, "Yes, there''s contact, and there is cooperation."


    He detailed it bit by bit, "After all, Xinjie City has just been designated a Planning Area; previously, it was all under the influence of anti-government armed forces, so we naturally had contact with them."


    "And inter-city trade requires a long and arduous journey. During this period, anti-government armed forces can either protect us or plunder us at any time, so we must have a good relationship with them."


    Qiu Tu asked, "What kind of relationship?"


    Qian Dafu confessed, "We cooperate with the anti-government forces providing them with a large number of supplies, medicines, and weapons..."


    "And they pay us a price 50% higher than the market rate and ensure the security of our inter-city trade."


    "So we often purchase supplies in the Planning Area and then sell the goods to the anti-government armed forces using robbery as an excuse."


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s confession, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Eagle couldn''t hide the change in their expressions.


    It wasn''t that their looks turned sour, but rather they looked exceptionally pleased¡ªbecause with this information, they immediately knew they had uncovered a major case!


    A major transporter colluding with anti-government armed forces! If this case was not considered big, then there would hardly be any bigger ones out there!


    But, Qiu Tu didn''t seem to think the same.


    He continued to ask, "What about the other transporters?"


    Qian Dafu struggled, "They are also involved..."


    "Whew!" Cao Dabiao was the least able to contain himself; he took a deep breath, his face barely able to hide his excitement.


    Meanwhile, Eagle and Ah-Kun kept exchanging glances, trying to see if their hearing was playing tricks on them.


    But at this time, Qiu Tu was still not finished.


    He looked at Qian Dafu with a cold gaze, "What about the Qin Family?"


    As Qiu Tu posed this question, Qian Dafu''s complexion almost broke into tears as he said, "They''re involved."


    "Holy shit..." Ah-Kun nearly blurted out the curse.


    By now, Cao Dabiao was dumbstruck, while even the usually calm and collected Eagle and Chen Feng showed looks of shock!


    The Four Major Transportation Merchants facilitating benefits to anti-government armed forces was already a big case. Now, with the involvement of one of Xinjie City''s biggest families, the Qin Family, the case was akin to a full-blown bombshell!


    Qiu Tu quietly looked at Qian Dafu for two seconds, then asked, "Is Vice President Tian involved?"


    This time, Qian Dafu''s face showed obvious confusion. After seeming to recall for a moment, he then said, "I''m not sure. He''s always kept his distance from us, never participating in our gatherings."


    "Even when there''s business, it''s always the Qin Family who contacts him."


    "So, I don''t know whether he''s actually involved in this, whether it''s a reciprocal trade, or... if he''s being used."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded. Getting so much information from Qian Dafu was already more than enough. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His "Cataclysmic ability" only allowed him to hear the "truth," not "the whole truth," so he still had to find other criminals to supplement and verify the things Qian Dafu had reported, checking for any incorrect or missing new details.


    Thinking this, he signaled to Eagle.


    Eagle nodded and quickly went out to have Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan bring in the next suspect.


    And seeing him come out two or three times in such a short span, Liu Fuping, who had been coordinating from outside all this time, had a glint in her eye, then took the initiative to approach and ask, "Is the interrogation going smoothly?"


    Qiu Tu had Eagle relay messages back and forth precisely because he knew he could trust his discretion.


    So, when faced with Liu Fuping''s question, Eagle just smiled and said in a noncommittal manner, "Well enough, I suppose."


    Liu Fuping, upon hearing this, looked at Eagle without showing any emotion, guessing in her heart: It seems... things are not going well.


    She wasn''t surprised, though.


    After all, the people undergoing interrogation today were all wealthy and powerful, and each had their backgrounds and strengths; they wouldn''t yield valuable information in just a few words.


    Qiu Tu was a person, not a god, and had to follow objective laws.


    However, just as she thought this, Qian Dafu was also brought out by Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan, clearly distressed. He shouted loudly towards the interrogation room, "Devil! You''re a devil!"


    "You have no right! Illegal interrogation! I''ll sue you! Sue you!"


    Hearing Qian Dafu''s fearful shouts, the agents present couldn''t help but look over, while Liu Fuping was also momentarily dumbfounded, her face filled with confusion.


    ------


    Staying up until 5 am, I finally managed to write it in advance, tens of thousands of words asking for subscription, asking for Monthly Tickets!


    I''m going to sleep... will continue the ten thousand words tomorrow!

 Chapter 135 - 115: Qin Family Makes a Move! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    As a seasoned investigator who had been working in the Interrogation Section for over a year, Liu Fuping was no stranger to such shouting and cursing.


    Many critical suspects, when stripped of important information and clues, would often bark powerlessly like this.


    Therefore, this kind of cursing and shouting was actually what interrogators most wanted to hear: a sound akin to the trumpet of victory.


    But now... hearing it from Qian Dafu''s mouth left Liu Fuping somewhat puzzled: Didn''t they say progress wasn''t going smoothly? How did the suspect crack so easily?


    Thinking this, she cast a slightly perplexed look at Eagle. What she saw was not a hint of surprise on Eagle''s face but an expression as if everything was within his expectations.


    Liu Fuping was momentarily taken aback. She realized what was happening in the next second.


    ''Just like the superior, so are the subordinates!''


    Liu Fuping cursed inwardly.


    Initially, she thought Eagle was a silent and honest person, which was why she approached him to glean some intelligence. Who knew he was also someone who had picked up some of Qiu Tu''s shamelessness...


    Of course... she didn''t realize her words actually implicated herself as well...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    The interrogation in the room was still ongoing.


    Under Qiu Tu''s arrangement, the switch of suspects was almost seamless: Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan had just escorted Qian Dafu out, and Li Xian and Jiao Ming brought the next transporter, Qi Yun, in.


    Qi Yun, perhaps having witnessed Qian Dafu''s cursing and wailing upon entering the interrogation room, was much more cooperative than Qian Dafu from the outset.


    He sat in the interrogation chair, watched Qian Dafu leave, then squeezed out a smile toward Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu, hello, I''m Qi Yun."


    Qiu Tu glanced at him, and when the door of the interrogation room closed, he casually asked, "You actually know me?"


    Qi Yun''s agreeable attitude was clearly born from a desire to flatter Qiu Tu to suffer less. However, the words that came to his mouth involuntarily revealed his true thoughts.


    "Of course. Ever since we heard that you took over the ''Yin Caimei case,'' we''ve been researching your information every day."


    "How could we sleep peacefully without knowing our enemies as well as ourselves?"


    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Cao Dabiao, Ah-Kun, and Eagle in the interrogation room could hardly contain their laughter.


    Even knowing Qiu Tu''s ability to make people speak the truth, hearing such a candid response still carried an inexplicable sense of amusement.


    At that moment, however, Qi Yun found nothing funny about the situation. He looked horrified, trying to cover his mouth to stop himself from blurting out anything further.


    But just as he raised his hand, he realized that Qiu Tu had made thorough preparations ¡ª the hands of the prisoners would be locked to the table once they entered the interrogation room.


    In that moment, Qi Yun finally understood Qian Dafu''s terror!


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of fear, wanting to question what Qiu Tu had done to him and why he was uncontrollably spilling words he didn''t want to say!


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give him the chance and began a relentless barrage of questions.


    So, under the control of his Cataclysmic ability, Qi Yun had no choice but to completely spill everything he knew.


    What he revealed was similar to Qian Dafu''s information. The transportation industry, by nature, operated in a gray area, especially amidst chaos.


    They not only maintained their own private militia, engaged in legitimate transportation but also occasionally indulged in black-market dealings.


    Under such circumstances, it was inevitable that they would have contacts with the Anti-government Armed Forces like the United Front.


    The two sides depended on each other and cooperated. So when the United Front offered to buy supplies at prices 50% higher than the market rate, doubling their profits, they naturally chose to take the risk.


    He also disclosed the relationship between the Four Major Transportation Merchants and the Qin Family. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    According to him, the Qin Family was the contact point for the Four Major Transportation Merchants with the United Front, and it was they who also controlled the Four Major Transportation Merchants.


    After all, given the longstanding and deep-rooted presence of the Qin Family in Xinjie City, controlling an entire industry was rather straightforward.


    After the interrogation of Qi Yun, Qiu Tu had a very accurate grasp of the identities of the Four Major Transportation Merchants: he and Qin Shuman hadn''t guessed wrong; the Four Major Transportation Merchants were indeed the Qin Family''s true operatives.


    It seemed as if Old Master Qin had handed over various gray and black industries to Master Qin Si merely as a distraction. The Qin Family''s true illicit businesses and private militia had long been split into four, decentralized, and joined the Four Major Transportation Merchants under the guise of transportation personnel.


    This discovery immediately put Qiu Tu on high alert: The Qin Family undoubtedly had significant hidden forces in the background.


    In this case, although the Qin Family might not break completely in the short term,


    But if this drags on for even a little longer, and the Qin Family senses something is wrong, they could remotely command this private militia to cause trouble in Xinjie City or even act against Qiu Tu.


    At that time, a storm of blood and violence could sweep through Xinjie City!


    By then, even if the Investigation Bureau and the military managed to forcefully suppress the situation, as the instigator of the entire affair, Qiu Tu would not be spared punishment!


    He might very well become the final sacrifice of the incident, offered up to appease the anger of both sides.

 Chapter 136 - 115: Qin Family Makes a Move! (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Politics has never been about justice, only interests!


    A minor deputy staff head, compared with the Qin Family that wields immense influence in Xinjie City, is really inconsequential!


    Qiu Tu realized this point, and the sharp-witted Eagle and Chen Feng obviously could think of it as well.


    Therefore, both of them looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of concern.


    Qiu Tu sensed their gaze, but he didn''t say anything, instead, he gave them a reassuring expression. After clarifying the whole matter, he understood: he was now in a race against time, competing with the Qin Family!


    Once the gun had been fired, there was no taking back the bullet!


    So, no matter how much pressure lay ahead, he had to keep going!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu rapped on the interrogation table and said, "Bring in Third Master Qin for questioning!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu abruptly change the order of the interrogations, Eagle immediately guessed that Qiu Tu was adjusting the interrogation plan, so he hurriedly ran out to switch the suspects.


    Soon, Qi Yun, looking dejected, was taken away, and Third Master Qin, Qin Shu, was brought in by the investigators.


    Compared to Qian Dafu''s bluster masking incompetence, and Qi Yun''s obsequiousness, Qin Shu was evidently much calmer.


    He sat down at the interrogation table as if certain his family would rescue him, calmly allowing his hands to be cuffed, then calmly regarded Qiu Tu...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Qin Family''s Main Residence.


    After the raging fire from a few days ago, the Qin Family''s Main Residence was clearly more dilapidated. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even though the Qin Family''s workers had been continuously rebuilding and repairing, there were still numerous black and crimson marks left by the flames.


    Perhaps with the passage of time, and as the Qin Family''s legacy was passed down through the generations, these marks might become an inscription of the Qin Family''s long history and legendary years. But for now, they remained a humiliation for the Qin Family.


    And within the main estate once scorched by flames, Commissioner Qin, Qin Heng, sat in an intricately carved mahogany armchair, holding a communicator, and was chatting with a faint smile to someone on the other end.


    On the other end of the communicator was his subordinate, Bai Ru''s father, Qian Dafu''s father-in-law: Bai Yongdong.


    Having his daughter and son-in-law arrested, his emotions were clearly agitated, "Commissioner! Just who is this Qiu Tu? In all the years I''ve been in Xinjie, I''ve never seen anyone as brazen as him!"


    "It''s bad enough that they''ve arrested one of the Four Major Transportation Merchants, but a deputy head from the Investigation Bureau dares to arrest a department head from the City Hall!"


    "This is truly lawless!"


    "Shouldn''t we take action and warn these youngsters? Otherwise, I think they might really climb atop us and defecate," he said.


    Hearing Bai Yongdong''s words, Commissioner Qin covered his mouth and coughed a bit forcefully a couple of times before slowly saying, "Yongdong, you''re an adult, don''t be so hot-tempered."


    "Regarding this matter, I''ve already phoned Director Yan and Minister Jia."


    "They assured us not to worry, saying this is just a minor incident, the actions of subordinates getting out of line, and they''ve severely reprimanded that junior staff head."


    "But... after all, the arrest has just been made, and if the Investigation Bureau releases them immediately, it would be a loss of face. So they asked us to wait one day, and by tomorrow, this will be over," he added.


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s soothing words, Bai Yongdong noticeably relaxed and his mood eased.


    He said softly, "Sigh, you''ve really been put to trouble. Please take good care of your health."


    Bai Yongdong seemed to have extraordinary respect for Commissioner Qin.


    Commissioner Qin "hmmed" and said, "Alright, stop adding to the chaos, just wait for the news."


    As he spoke, it seemed as if something suddenly occurred to him, and he abruptly said, "By the way, Yongdong, your daughter... she doesn''t know about that matter, does she?"


    After a second''s pause, Bai Yongdong hurriedly said, "She doesn''t know, doesn''t know."


    "Rest assured, I haven''t told anyone about that matter," he assured.


    Upon hearing this, Commissioner Qin said, "That''s good. Then wait for the news in peace."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone.


    However, after hanging up the phone, Commissioner Qin coughed deeply twice. He didn''t display the ease he had shown on the phone. Gripping the communicator in hand, his gaze was neither joyful nor sorrowful, as if preoccupied by some heavy thoughts.


    After a while, he came back to his senses and suddenly called out, "Fugui."


    With his call, a middle-aged man hurried over, then bent over and asked, "Master, you were looking for me?"


    Commissioner Qin asked expressionlessly, "What''s the situation now?"


    The middle-aged man, looking troubled, responded, "The situation is somewhat complicated."


    "After your phone call with Director Yan, he promised to go and make inquiries, but we haven''t received a call back yet."


    "Minister Jia, on the other hand, did return a call, but only to placate us, saying that he''s already working on Qiu Tu."


    "Then, over at the Investigation Bureau... our agents in the Qin Family, as well as those we''ve planted or bribed, have been very diligent, constantly probing for information."


    "But... Qiu Tu is clearly on his guard. The entire interrogation area of the Political Department is now sealed off. Apart from the investigation team members, no one is allowed in."


    "So, we are completely in the dark about the progress inside."


    Hearing Fugui''s report, Qin Heng''s countenance was as dark as deep water.


    He reflected in silence for a moment, then finally said, "Go tell Lone Wolf it''s time to feast tonight."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Fugui''s complexion changed, and he exclaimed, "Master!"


    After shouting, he realized his voice may have been too loud, so he quickly lowered it and advised, "Master, that''s the Deputy Staff of the Political Department you''re talking about."


    "And he''s involved in handling such a sensitive case."


    "The whole of Xinjie City is watching him."


    "Just killing him like this will cause a big mess...."


    Qin Heng''s gaze shifted, but after a moment, he still made up his mind. Although he looked frail, his eyes were as sharp as a predator''s. He said resolutely, "When a lion fights a rabbit, it must use all its might!"


    "He''s a pawn pushed forward by those Old Foxes to entangle and contend with us. If we really follow the rhythm set by those Old Foxes, we''ll be dragged to death."


    "I''d rather face some backlash and utterly destroy him physically. To be rid of this trouble once and for all."


    "As long as we show our tough stance, and with the man dead, those Old Foxes will have no choice but to let go."


    "When the time comes, we could just cede some more benefits to them to shut them up. That''s still better than having them control the pace."


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s words, Fugui pondered for two seconds, then nodded slightly, responding, "Yes, Master, I''ll arrange it right away."


    After speaking, he inquired, "Then... when should Lone Wolf make his move?"


    Commissioner Qin hesitated briefly, his sickly pale face etched with ruthlessness, "Act as soon as possible. Have him use his ''Cataclysmic ability'' to disguise himself as an agent, infiltrate the Investigation Bureau, and take out Qiu Tu at the first opportunity!"


    Fugui, hearing this, frantically objected, "Master, that won''t do."


    He whispered, "Assassinating Qiu Tu is already going too far. If we kill him right in the Political Department, it''s practically slapping Director Yan and Minister Jia in the face."


    "Such an act would break all the rules. The entire Xinjie City would laugh at them, and even the Sanctuary might hold us accountable."


    "It would likely lead to an all-out conflict, turning a small issue into a major crisis...."


    Having said this, Fugui paused, then added softly, "Plus... people like Boss Qian are all savvy, they know what to say and what not to say."


    "They understand that if our business gets too big, coming clean would mean a dead end for them as well."


    "So, it''s unlikely Qiu Tu will be able to get results from the interrogation any time soon."


    "After all... he''s from the Political Department, not the Security Department. He doesn''t have ''Cataclysmic treasures'' or ''Cataclysmic abilities'' related to interrogation...."


    Listening to Fugui''s words, Qin Heng''s expression fluctuated, as if he were torn and hesitant....


    -----


    Today is still three updates of 10,000 words each, huh, the third chapter is still being written, but I''m a bit sleepy and want to sleep more, so... it''ll be updated around 1 AM if not earlier. I''m asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 137 - 116: The Truth Revealed (10,000 words, seeking monthly ticket)

    After a moment of deep thought, his reason had eventually triumphed over his emotion.


    He slowly said, "Although I''ve always had some unease in my heart."


    "But, you''re right."


    "Qian Dafu and the rest are in the same boat as us. Exposing us would mean exposing themselves. It would be the end for all of us."


    "No matter what kind of threats or temptations, they''re useless in the face of death. So, they should be well aware of this."


    Having said that, he even reflected on himself, "Perhaps Qiu Tu acted too quickly, leaving me a bit overwhelmed. Sigh... I''m getting old. Cough cough."


    Seeing Qin Heng begin to cough and cover his mouth again, Fugui quickly walked over and poured him a cup of warm water.


    As he handed the water to Qin Heng, Fugui also comforted him, "Master, you are just worried and in disarray because of your care for the family."


    "Over the years, there have been numerous incidents in the Qin Family. Haven''t we overcome them all in the end?"


    "You''ve taught me before. With the Qin Family''s large family and businesses, and its deep roots, as long as we don''t act rashly, small breezes and little waves won''t bring down the Qin Family."


    "The real fear is if we disrupt our own ranks. Then it''s very likely that we''ll make mistakes in our haste and expose our weaknesses, leading to a major crisis."


    Hearing Fugui''s comforting words, Qin Heng drank a mouthful of warm water and said with emotion, "You''re right. My heart is a bit in chaos. Mistaking intuition for reason."


    After saying that, he seemed to recover his composure as the family master and then made arrangements, "Here''s what we''ll do: let Lone Wolf stand guard outside the Investigation Bureau. As soon as Qiu Tu leaves the Bureau, take him out immediately."


    "Also, prepare that cataclysmic treasure."


    Hearing Commissioner Qin''s words, Fugui''s expression slightly changed.


    However, before he could speak, Commissioner Qin continued, "If the assassination of Qiu Tu is not successful or drags on too long, eliminate Qian Dafu and the rest immediately."


    Commissioner Qin''s gaze was deep as water, "I am not a heartless person, as long as Qiu Tu is dead, they will still be our good comrades."


    "But if Qiu Tu isn''t dead, then don''t blame me for not giving them a chance."


    "Yes, Master!" Fugui bowed.


    Having said this, Qin Heng placed the water cup on the table, and made a third arrangement, "Additionally, have Old Dog gather all the people we have under Qian Dafu''s control. Don''t let them sit idle either; give the Investigation Bureau something to worry about, apply some pressure."


    "Have some of them demonstrate in front of the Bureau''s doors. The rest can just cause some trouble in Xinjie City."


    "If Qiu Tu wants to make a big deal out of this, then we''ll create an even bigger scene!"


    Hearing this, a bright smile appeared on Fugui''s face, and he bowed, "Yes, Master."


    Once Qin Heng had finished making all his arrangements, Fugui straightened up and quickly walked outside.


    The "pitter-patter" of the heavy rain fell, landing in the main house''s courtyard, splashing up countless droplets.


    As Qin Heng watched Fugui leave in the rain, for some reason, he felt a bit uneasy.


    But, upon reflection, he couldn''t pinpoint where the problem lay.


    Sitting quietly and watching the rain for a while, he eventually attributed everything to a state of unrest due to the Qin Family''s recent string of incidents.


    The fourth had set a fire and escaped, his whereabouts unknown to this day, while the second and third had been taken by Qiu Tu.


    For a time, the family was left with only the fifth...


    Thinking this, Qin Heng heaved a deep sigh, then picked up the teacup again, drank some water, and silently chanted to himself, "Don''t rush, don''t rush, stay calm, stay calm"....


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau, Political Department, interrogation room.


    Qiu Tu watched Zhu Huoyan and Ding Xiaoliu carry the limp Third Brother Qin, who had collapsed on the table, out of the room.


    Compared to the seasoned Qian Dafu and Qi Yun, Third Brother Qin, who enjoyed the family''s influence as a second-generation heir, was clearly at a disadvantage.


    Initially, he was very calm in front of Qiu Tu, simply relying on his status, believing that Qiu Tu wouldn''t dare to torture him for a confession or use special drugs on him.


    But... when the effect of the cataclysmic ability descended upon him, he completely panicked. Fear and despair became clearly visible in him.


    And as Qiu Tu asked one question after another, he became even less able to cope. Qiu Tu hadn''t even finished the interrogation when he had already fainted from fear, collapsing on the table.


    Due to this unexpected incident, the interrogation could not proceed.


    It was at this moment that Qiu Tu realized he hadn''t been entirely thorough when setting up the rules.


    If a criminal fainted from fright, the "Truth" of the Order Space wouldn''t be effective: if a suspect was more ruthless, like biting off their own tongue or committing suicide, then it would probably be ineffective as well, right...?


    ```


    "From now on, when setting rules, we must be careful not to leave any loopholes."


    "These people are all pampered officials and wealthy merchants; they wouldn''t be too ruthless. But if we were interrogating die-hard loyalists, we would likely get nothing."


    ```


    Qiu Tu mulled this over as he also sorted through the intelligence he had extracted from Third Brother Qin.


    It had to be said that as a core member of the Qin family, Third Brother Qin was obviously more informed than the likes of Qian Dafu.


    According to his account, the Qin family had deep ties with the anti-government armed forces even during their early days of wealth accumulation. At that time, the Qin family used the resources left by their ancestors to develop quite well in Xinjie City but could never truly expand.


    This continued until about a decade ago when Old Master Qin, seeing no hope for the family''s revival, made a desperate gamble.


    He went through great lengths to obtain the genetic material of a deceased wife of a major general in the anti-government forces.


    Then, he sought out every possible opportunity to learn about the character and preferences of this late wife, employing the Qin family''s "Cloning Female Body" technology... to successfully "resurrect" her.


    After that, Old Master Qin, by offering this woman, managed to establish a connection with the general. He secretly started doing shady business with the anti-government armed forces and became their agent in this region.


    It was riding this tailwind that allowed the Qin family to swiftly grow into one of the most prominent families in Xinjie City within a mere decade!


    However, it was also because of this dark history that Old Master Qin always worried about potential future problems.


    Thus, upon learning about the possible establishment of Xinjie City, he decisively cut ties with the anti-government armed forces to a certain extent. He moved all truly dark businesses out and established the Four Major Transportation Merchants.


    He also actively fawned over officials like Commissioner Jiang and Yan Chen, who might assume office in Xinjie City.


    Even though the Qin family no longer had direct dealings with the anti-government armed forces, how could so many years of relations be severed so abruptly?


    Thus, the Qin family actually continued to remotely direct the dealings between the Four Major Transportation Merchants and the anti-government armed forces.


    And... they inserted spies into the anti-government forces.


    Yin Caimei, for instance, was trained by the United Front and placed into Xinjie City by the Qin family''s machinations. Her main objective was to infiltrate various departments in City Hall and gather intelligence.


    To avoid drawing attention, the Qin family also specifically used Vice President Tian, who had a thread of connection to the United Front, to create a cover and prevent drawing the attention of various powers.


    In fact, this successfully obscured the relationship between Yin Caimei and the Qin family and allowed her to infiltrate City Hall more smoothly. She became the shared mistress of many within City Hall and gathered a vast amount of valuable intelligence for the United Front!


    After organizing all the truths about the case he had received from Third Brother Qin, Qiu Tu honestly felt his emotions were a bit complicated. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He remembered when he first arrived in this world, he had, for self-preservation, first "falsely accused" Qin Shuman of being a spy, followed by "framing" the Qin family as having murky relations with the United Front.


    At the time, he had simply been making it up to get more powers involved and to make Yan Chen, who was paranoid, hesitate to act rashly.


    But who could have predicted... it was all proven true!


    Qin Shuman was indeed a spy! And the Qin family really did have deep relations with the United Front!


    Oddly, Qiu Tu felt as though the bullet he had fired then had traveled across countless dimensions and hit him instead!


    "I truly have a curse... ah, no, it''s a blessing in disguise!"


    After quietly reflecting, Qiu Tu''s thoughts returned to the case at hand:


    With the testimonies and various pieces of evidence and clues provided by Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Third Brother Qin, this case was almost beyond salvaging¡ªeven the Three Giants of Xinjie City would not dare to interfere with a case with such immense ties to the anti-government armed forces; it was too risky.


    So, what remained was... how Qiu Tu could wrap up this case and how he could gain sufficient profit from it!


    After all, the Qin family was wealthy and influential, with assets and positions that could tempt many. Once it collapsed, the vacated positions and market opportunities would be plentiful.


    This was a beached whale, a gluttonous feast for all the forces in Xinjie City.


    Although Qiu Tu was significantly outgunned in this "spoils-sharing banquet," he had the advantage of being the case officer. He should be able to sink his teeth into a piece of the pie!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to carefully plan before closing the case.


    Otherwise, would all his hard work in investigating the case and the covert struggle with Yan Chen and Jia Shu have been in vain, just to benefit others?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu first let Chen Feng and Ah-Kun sort out the interrogation videos and audio, then ordered Cao Dabiao and Eagle to dispatch people to search for clues based on Third Brother Qin''s testimony.


    As for himself, he was ready to go to the restroom to deactivate his "Cataclysmic ability" and then seriously consider how to maximize his own interests.


    However, no sooner had he left the interrogation room and before he could reach the restroom, Liu Fuping sashayed over and said with a playful expression,


    "Your little lover wants to see you. She says she knows a major secret about the Qin family and wants to exchange it with you."


    -----


    Today is 3 updates of 10,000 words, the third chapter is still in progress, I''m a bit sleepy and want to sleep more, so... I''ll update around 13:00, or earlier if possible. Seeking a Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 138 - 117: Individual Interrogation of Bai Ru (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and retorted, "What little lover, Sister Liu, you really can''t ruin my reputation."


    "I''m still a bachelor, you know."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but spit inwardly at him. She had realized that her boss was truly becoming more and more shameless.


    Not to mention his philandering nature, he had already mingled with who knows how many women.


    Just look at what he did to Bai Ru: cuddling and hugging, touching and squeezing, kissing back and forth.


    Calling Bai Ru his little lover was already giving him enough face¡ªit at least gave a "title."


    If we were to speak unpleasantly, Qiu Tu was just seducing someone else''s wife! In ancient times, he would have been caged!


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was well aware of Liu Fuping''s disdainful gaze, but he didn''t mind it at all. He even brazenly wrapped his arms around Liu Fuping''s slender waist, leaned into the beautiful woman''s ear, and whispered,


    "Even if I had a little lover, it would definitely be you, Sister Liu."


    "That Bai Ru... in terms of looks, in terms of figure, how could she compare to even a hair of Sister Liu?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s heart swelled with joy, and she had to secretly clench her teeth to prevent her lips from curling up too high...


    ''Don''t say, although my superior is a bit of a scoundrel, his words are truly sweet...''


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping cast a seductive glance at Qiu Tu and let him off the hook, "Shall I call Bai Ru over for you?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "That would be great."


    Either way, the "Order Space" wasn''t over yet; one more interrogation was just one more interrogation.


    Thinking this, he watched Liu Fuping go to fetch the person and slowly walked back to the interrogation room.


    By this time, Cao Dabiao and Eagle had already left the interrogation room, following the confessions of Qi Yun and Third Brother Qin to search for evidence. Chen Feng and Ah-Kun had also completed the arrangement of the video and audio materials for the interrogation.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu enter, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun began packing up the film while casting a glance at him, then asked, "Brother Tu, what''s up?"


    Qiu Tu waved his hand, "Nothing much. Just need to conduct an additional interrogation."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun exchanged a look, hesitated a moment, and then said, "But we''ve stopped the cameras and recording equipment; it''ll take a long time to set up again."


    At that, Qiu Tu also hesitated briefly before responding, "No matter. We''ll forego the video and audio for this one."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu glanced at the two who were still organizing materials and instructed, "You two don''t need to join this interrogation then."


    "Go ahead and process the film and tapes, put together the video and audio materials as soon as possible, I''ll have to report to the higher-ups later."


    Because of the Cataclysm, this era had not yet entered the digital age; coupled with the poor conditions at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, the interrogation footage was all recorded using film cameras.


    After recording, the footage wasn''t immediately available but required developing, processing, and playing back with specialized equipment.


    Thus, the preparation time before the interrogation was long, and various processing steps were needed afterward, making it quite troublesome.


    This also meant that aside from important suspects in major cases that required video and audio backups, most interrogations did not require video or audio recording.


    So, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s reasonable request, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun weren''t bothered. They saluted and then left the interrogation room with the equipment and materials.


    And as they departed, within just a few seconds, Liu Fuping entered the interrogation room with Bai Ru.


    After handcuffing Bai Ru to the interrogation table, Liu Fuping threw a flirtatious glance at Qiu Tu and teased, "Go easy on her, don''t break our beautiful suspect."


    After saying that, Liu Fuping left the interrogation room, her lips curling with a smile and her hips swaying.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Bai Ru:...


    Once the door of the interrogation room closed, and the cramped space contained only Qiu Tu and Bai Ru, Bai Ru lifted her head, looked at Qiu Tu with a pitiful expression, and asked, "What.... what did she mean by that sentence?"


    "What does ''go easy on her'' mean? What does ''don''t break me'' mean?"


    Qiu Tu cursed "a woman''s jealousy" inwardly!


    He coughed once and conveniently found an excuse, "It''s nothing. She was just using such words to disturb your mood, to frighten you, to make you more cooperative during the interrogation."


    "It''s a common interrogation technique."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru''s gaze clearly showed disbelief. But being someone with an "Inner Protector" personality, asking the earlier question was already a display of her utmost courage; she did not dare to press further.


    So, she quietly lowered her head and said, "The reason I sought you out is to make a deal with you."


    "I can reveal to you the Qin Family''s biggest secret, but you also have to make some promises to me."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Oh? What promises do you want?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Bai Ru looked at him with a grievance and said, "Of course, I would want you to promise the safety of me and my husband''s family. "


    "But you''re a big liar, and even if you promise, I estimate you wouldn''t fulfill it. So, for now, I just wish we could temporarily get out of here."


    "By then, we can find my father, and then run away together."


    As she spoke, Bai Ru suddenly woke up, her big, watery eyes wide open, trying to cover her mouth with her hand.


    But after a series of "clang, clang" metal friction sounds, she realized that her hands were still cuffed to the table, unable to move at all.


    Her face blushed slightly, and she asked softly, "What... What''s happening to me? What I just said... it was all false. I didn''t plan to run away, really!"


    Bai Ru was probably the one with the weakest psychological strength among the few people Qiu Tu interrogated. She was like a little rabbit, completely panicked when frightened.


    She even started to delude herself.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a sense of amusement: Wouldn''t anyone who saw such a cute woman be tempted to tease her a bit?


    Thinking so, he stood up, walked over to Bai Ru, and lightly pinched her soft, fair cheeks with his hand.


    Bai Ru, slightly afraid, tried to back away, but Qiu Tu''s hand followed like a shadow, always pinching her cheek.


    After pinching her twice like this, Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "Madam, in fact, you enjoyed the ambiguous atmosphere between the two of us today, didn''t you?"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ru''s face flushed with embarrassment, and she defended, "Not at all... a little, somewhat conflicted, I wanted to resist but... it also felt very different."


    As she spoke what was on her mind, Bai Ru''s eyes widened again, possibly completely perplexed by what was happening.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    His hand moved from Bai Ru''s cheek down to softly stroke her neck and collarbone, the tender flesh near her cleavage, "Madam, is it that you and your husband don''t get along very well in certain aspects of life?"


    Bai Ru was somewhat dazed by now, feeling utterly ashamed, but under the control of her Cataclysmic ability, she finally spoke slowly, "My husband... is very afraid of my father. Plus, this marriage was a family alliance arranged by the Qin Family."


    "So... he has always been unkind to me... and seldom touches me."


    "Even if... he touches me, it''s always over in a hurry."


    Qiu Tu "Oh"ed and scoffed, "A 30-minute task completed in 3 minutes?"


    Bai Ru''s face turned redder, and she stuttered, "Less than 3 minutes."


    Qiu Tu laughed, his head buried deeply into Bai Ru''s cleavage, where he was met with a fresh milky scent.


    Bai Ru''s body stiffened noticeably, daring not to move at all.


    But Qiu Tu was just nuzzling there for a moment before suddenly returning to business matters, "Madam said she wanted to tell me a big secret about the Qin Family? What secret is that?"


    By this time, Bai Ru had already been thrown into utter confusion by Qiu Tu''s consecutive actions, completely at a loss.


    Let alone the fact that she was currently under the control of the "Order Space", even without the effect of the Cataclysmic ability, she probably just wanted to divulge the secret quickly and end this interrogation!


    In her heart, there was no longer any thought of bargaining.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she spoke as if relieved, "Actually... Old Master Qin isn''t dead!" S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu''s action obviously paused for a moment. Then he continued to hold Bai Ru, fumbling around while asking, "Give me more details. Start from the beginning."


    In a fluster, Bai Ru said, "Before the Cataclysm, my family was an employee of the Qin family. After the Cataclysm, my father became an orphan, and was given a livelihood by Old Master Qin, so he has always regarded Old Master Qin as a half-brother."


    "Over the years, the big reason for his success was the support provided by Old Master Qin from behind the scenes. He has always been facilitating things for the Qin Family."


    "Therefore, our two families have been on very good terms and often interact. I''ve met Old Master Qin many times. He was always in robust health."


    "Years ago, when there was news about building Xinjie City in the Sanctuary, Old Master Qin was running around everywhere. But as soon as everything was arranged, he suddenly died of an accident."


    "At the time, I didn''t think much of it. After all, it''s natural for people to be born, get old, fall ill, and die, and in such a chaotic world, no one can be sure who might suddenly pass away."


    "But what''s strange is... even though my father worshipped and respected Old Master Qin, he only pretended to be sad outside. When he came home, he was like a person unaffected, and even... somewhat happy."


    "This made me very curious."


    "Later on, after my father got drunk, he took my hand and asked me if I could accept calling another face ''father'' if one day I had to."


    "At the moment, I was terrified, thinking my father was going to disown me and give me away to someone else. So I began to press him for an explanation."


    "And under my persistent questioning, my father finally told me the truth... that Old Master Qin actually hadn''t died."


    "He knew many years ago that his lifespan wouldn''t be very high, so he made a lot of preparations in advance to extend his life."


    "Right before his death, he finally made a deal with ''God'' and overcame the last hurdle to achieving immortality, gaining a new life..."


    ----


    Here''s an update of ten thousand words, everyone! I got six and a half hours of sleep today and feel much more comfortable. While taking good care of my health, I''ll strive to produce more chapters! I''m really pushing myself harder than I ever have in all my years of writing by doing ten thousand words a day, so I humbly ask everyone to throw more Monthly Tickets my way! Please subscribe! Thank you so much!


    I''ll continue with another ten thousand words tomorrow.

 Chapter 139 - 118: 36 Strategies for Dealing with Women Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu had no interest in flirting with her.


    He held Bai Ru, his eyebrows slightly furrowed.


    ''Made a deal with "God"? Overcame the last obstacle to immortality?''


    Perhaps overly sensitive, the moment Qiu Tu heard the word "God", he immediately connected it with the "God" cried out by the man in the suit and mask.


    ''Are these two "Gods" the same one?''


    ''Or are there many "Gods"? Or... could it be some kind of symbol?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What is ''God''? Does this world have a ''God''?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Bai Ru thought for a moment, then said, "I''m not sure..."


    "My father didn''t elaborate. It could be a taboo topic? Perhaps he is not very clear about it himself? Or maybe... he doesn''t want me to know too much?"


    Listening to Bai Ru, Qiu Tu couldn''t help stroking his chin, appearing somewhat thoughtful¡­.


    After spending a day with Qiu Tu, Bai Ru gradually became able to read some of his expressions and thoughts.


    So seeing Qiu Tu pondering his schemes again, she hurriedly said in panic and weakness, "What are you going to do...?"


    "You''ve already captured me, you can''t capture my father, too..."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu laughed.


    He found the personality of a woman like Bai Ru truly interesting; no matter how you teased her, it was amusing.


    Thinking this, he reached out and touched Bai Ru''s cheek, then teasingly said, "Is that so? Then it will depend on your behavior..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words and seeing his hand on her face, Bai Ru turned pale as if she thought of some possibility¡­.


    And Qiu Tu stood up with a mischievous smile, his hand resting on his belt.


    His crotch was just level with Bai Ru''s gaze, and staring at the zipper of Qiu Tu''s pants, her eyes widened in shock¡­.


    However, Qiu Tu merely adjusted his belt and sat back down, "Tell me, what else do you know about Old Master Qin''s quest for immortality?"


    "As long as you talk enough, I might not have to capture your father."


    "Ah?" Bai Ru was taken aback, almost spraining her back, not expecting this turn of events.


    Her cheeks flushed, and her eyes reddened with embarrassment, feeling a sense of humiliation as if her dignity had been trampled.


    Who knows what she was thinking during the past few seconds¡­.


    Those were likely the longest seconds of her life, and the most sordid images filled her mind¡­.


    Moreover, perhaps because of Qiu Tu''s sudden change, she even forgot whether she "reluctantly agreed" or was "struggling to resist" in those mental images¡­.


    This unawareness of her own feelings, contrasted with Qiu Tu''s serious demeanor, made her feel like she was nothing but a harlot¡­.


    And that wasn''t the end of it. Remember, she was still under the influence of the Order Space.


    So even though she was enormously embarrassed and wanted to shut out everything, under the control of the cataclysmic ability, she still had to answer Qiu Tu''s questions sincerely, adding to her mortification¡­.


    Too bad Bai Ru hadn''t read the "Emotional Fraud Manual." If she had, she would know that the method Qiu Tu was using was precisely the "[Passionate Fantasy]" from the 36 schemes of handling women discussed in the "Emotional Fraud Manual". S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This approach was specifically designed by fraud groups for women of the "Inner Protector" type.


    While it could also be applied to other types of women, it was especially effective on "Inner Protectors" or married women with a certain level of favorability.


    To put it simply, this scheme involves:


    When both parties are in an ambiguous stage, and after a certain level of physical contact, you make movements that can easily cause misunderstandings.


    You let the other party imagine what might happen next, yet you withdraw immediately without doing those things¡­.


    After a few such teases, the other party''s mind has actually "rehearsed" many times what the two of you are about to do, making whatever you do next seem much more natural and easy¡­.


    Even, if the woman''s passion is strong, she might not be able to resist taking the initiative¡­.


    This scheme can effectively advance a relationship, including but not limited to "hugging", "kissing", and all the stages that follow, with broad application¡­.


    Having mentally run through the "[Passionate Fantasy]" scheme, Qiu Tu smiled subtly, then listened attentively as Bai Ru started revealing Old Master Qin''s secrets.


    Bai Ru, "That night, my father drank a lot, and he spoke at length."


    "It might be because it was so long ago, I don''t remember it very clearly."


    "But I do remember my father mentioning that immortality is not without its limits. The main restriction is the need to switch bodies, and it can only be a body with a blood relation to oneself."


    "Moreover, the closer the blood relation, the greater the probability of success and the better the recovery."


    "So, if he¡­ wants to be immortal like Old Master Qin, he would need to give me another brother, or¡­"


    "Have the Qin Family help clone a new body."


    Hearing Bai Ru''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned, then couldn''t help asking, "Clone a new body?"


    "Isn''t the Qin Family''s technology for Cloning Female Bodies?"


    No sooner had he spoken did Qiu Tu feel that his question was a little silly.


    Cloning is a technique that allows an organism to reproduce asexually through somatic cells, creating an individual with the exact genetic makeup as the original.

 Chapter 140 - 118: 36 Plans to Deal with Women, Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, there is no theoretical difference in this technology between cloning a man and cloning a woman.


    Qiu Tu speculated that the reason why the Qin Family told the outside world that their technology was "Cloned Female Body" was probably just to make the technology sound more salacious and more likely to attract the attention of those lecherous big shots.


    However... don''t these cloned bodies have very short lifespans? If Old Master Qin and Deputy Director Bai were to enter cloned bodies, wouldn''t they die again very soon?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also voiced his doubts.


    It was only from Bai Ru''s words that Qiu Tu understood the strength of the Qin Family''s "Cloning Technology".


    According to Bai Ru, the Qin Family''s technology was actually very powerful and was one of the world''s cutting-edge technologies before the Cataclysm.


    The reason for this was that the technology, apart from cloning and gene editing, also allowed for "Forced Maturation" of the cloned bodies.


    "Forced maturation" could rapidly grow a clone into an adult individual in just a year or two.


    Of course, the cost and drawbacks of such "forced maturation" were also significant. Aside from consuming a vast amount of resources, the lifespans of the forced matured individuals would often be significantly shortened, and their cognition of the world and thinking would also have certain gaps compared to ordinary people.


    But if "forced maturation" technology was not used, then the cloned individuals could grow like normal people, not only consuming less resources, but also having lifespans no different from ordinary people.


    In this way, a normally grown individual could become the perfect "container".


    After listening to Bai Ru''s narrative, Qiu Tu involuntarily thought of the profligate son that was said to be born from the Qin Family''s Fifth House''s legitimate wife.


    Qiu Tu remembered that the Qin Family''s Fifth House was not very old, only in his teens. Compared to the four brothers of the Qin family, he was practically from a different generation.


    But then... going by the timeline, wasn''t that exactly when Old Master Qin had started his fortune and began preparing for the future?


    Could it be... he was Old Master Qin?


    With that thought... Qiu Tu''s brain whirred.


    After a moment, he felt something was off.


    If Qin Family''s Fifth House was Old Master Qin, then the distribution of power within the Qin family couldn''t possibly be what it was now!


    If Old Master Qin had already revealed the secret of his "immortality" to Bai Ru''s father, then it proved that it was not a secret that could be shared with just anyone.


    Therefore, even if he had entered the body of a clone that was only a teenager, he could still remotely control the Qin Family, rather than becoming a profligate son who only knew how to play around wildly and was ignorant.


    This did not conform to the logic of power dynamics.


    So... in fact, as long as one knows who is currently in charge of the Qin Family, that person should be the real Old Master Qin.


    Following this line of thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt stunned.


    So, was it... Commissioner Qin?!


    Thinking of this simple yet the most unlikely and the hardest for outsiders to suspect possibility... Qiu Tu was somewhat flabbergasted.


    He couldn''t help but look at Bai Ru and tentatively asked, "So... Old Master Qin is now... Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru too was a bit bewildered.


    She recalled everything she had just said, and there seemed to be no inkling that Qin Heng was Old Master Qin.


    Moreover, all they had discussed thus far was her own father''s "immortality". How did Qiu Tu suddenly guess Old Master Qin''s identity?


    However, despite her many doubts, under the rules of the "Order Room", she could only answer Qiu Tu''s question truthfully.


    So she said uncontrollably, "Yes. Old Master Qin is now Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin."


    Bai Ru''s eyes held a touch of reminiscence as she spoke weakly, "I''ve always been a bit surprised about Old Master Qin choosing Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin."


    "It was my father who explicitly addressed it for me."


    "He meant that Old Master Qin had actually groomed a cloned body for his own immortality, which is Qin Wuyi."


    "But when Old Master Qin died, that body was too young, not fully matured yet,"


    "Furthermore, handing over the family business to a young child would too easily stir up dissatisfaction within the family and attract the covetous gaze of outside wolves. That''s why, for his first body switch, he chose Qin Heng, who at that time wasn''t yet a commissioner,"


    "As Old Master Qin''s eldest son, Qin Heng had the strongest legitimacy to inherit the Qin Family, which was least likely to arouse suspicion from outsiders. And because of his age, he could command respect from both the family and outsiders, and could smoothly take over the political assets left by Old Master Qin,"


    "The only drawback: an unhealthy body, which, in the case of merely being a ''transition,'' actually counted as a bonus point,"


    "After all, once Qin Wuyi came of age and all the roads were paved, the unhealthy Qin Heng could drop dead at any moment,"


    "By then, Qin Heng''s children would still be young, and the other brothers each had their own businesses, so it would be only natural for the matured and well-prepared Qin Wuyi to inherit Qin Heng''s political status and family position,"


    After listening to Bai Ru''s recounting, Qiu Tu had only one thought in mind: indeed, a self-made magnate is ruthless and resolute.


    To kill his son, sleep with his daughter-in-law, plot against his "grandson''s" inheritance. He was capable of committing such cutthroat acts!


    But upon further thought, since Old Master Qin could live "forever," it seemed he really didn''t need to care about the life and death of his descendants.


    After all, as long as he preserved his own genes, he could live on and on forever....


    With this realization, Qiu Tu suddenly gained a deeper understanding of the entire case.


    Anti-government armed forces, immortality, cloned female body, "God"....


    The more he delved into the case, the more Qiu Tu realized it contained far too many secrets.


    Fortunately, he had the opportunity to unearth it all!


    Thinking this, he no longer felt like teasing Bai Ru; instead, he called Liu Fuping to take her away.


    After going through Qiu Tu''s private interrogation, Bai Ru was somewhat delirious, as if she had undergone a spiritual baptism.


    It wasn''t until Liu Fuping escorted her to the guard room that she suddenly snapped awake: Wait a minute! Wasn''t I negotiating and trading interests with Qiu Tu?!


    How did it become a one-sided provision of information?!


    At this thought, Bai Ru covered her face with her hands, feeling utterly useless....


    She squatted down, burying her head in her knees, with only one hope in her heart: hoping that the secrets she had just revealed wouldn''t bring trouble to her father....


    Hadn''t Qiu Tu seemed to promise that as long as she behaved well, he wouldn''t go after her father?


    With this thought, a faint glimmer of hope sparked within Bai Ru.


    And.... Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, left alone in the interrogation room, deactivated his Cataclysmic ability while sending a message to Eagle, who was out arresting people with Cao Dabiao, "New target: Deputy Director Bai Yongdong."


    A moment later, Eagle replied with two characters, "Received."


    This time, the use of his ability might have been too lengthy. As he deactivated his Cataclysmic ability, Qiu Tu felt as if his spiritual power had been completely drained!


    His head was dizzy, and it even felt as if there was a pump in his brain, incessantly squeezing his soul. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, without delay, he took out the prepared Nightmare Crystal Vial, opened it, and downed the liquid within!


    As the liquid entered his throat, Qiu Tu immediately felt a cool relief washing from his stomach to his brain. In just a moment, the emptiness in his brain was significantly alleviated....


    Sitting back in the judge''s seat, Qiu Tu slowly relieved his discomfort while also beginning to consider the benefits he could gain from this case, according to plan.


    As a deeply rooted major household in Xinjie City, the Qin Family''s sphere of influence was incredibly vast.


    -------


    Today there are still 3 updates of 10,000 words each, haha, I''m posting 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter will still be updated around 13:00 (I feel like I can take it physically). Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 141 - 119: Shocked Yan Chen! (10,000 Words for Subscription)

    Yan Chen not only had his own people in all three major power institutions, but his industries also spanned clothing, jewelry, department stores, and transportation, among others. It can be said that he had both money and manpower at his disposal!


    And the downfall of such a colossal Qin Family would yield astounding benefits.


    If Qiu Tu could secure even a part of it, he could save a considerable amount of starting resources!


    Thinking this way, he also casually "dismantled" the Qin Family in his mind.


    No matter the family, essentially, they are composed of four dimensions: 1. Money! 2. Power! 3. Talent! 4. Technology!


    Among these, the Qin Family''s most valuable assets were, of course, technology and power.


    The Qin Family''s Cloning technology was unquestionably far ahead of the current post-Cataclysm chaotic world. If he could acquire it, he could not only sustain a small family''s prosperity for a long time, but also possibly reverse-engineer the related technology to advance more peripheral sciences.


    As for "power," that was about the various positions the Qin Family held within Xinjie City''s three major power institutions.


    Given the current situation of the Qin Family, unless one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City personally stepped in to protect them, Old Master Qin (Qin Heng)''s position as Commissioner and Qin Zhengguang''s as Deputy Division Chief were definitely going to be relinquished.


    Aside from them, because of this affair, a group from the Investigation Bureau and the Governing Hall including Division Chiefs and Chiefs are likely to be warned or even demoted.


    This is nothing short of a major power reshuffle among Xinjie City''s mid-level echelons!


    Comparing money and talent to the most important assets of technology and power, the Qin Family''s resources are equally tempting.


    Once the Qin Family falls, the industry shares, corporate assets, and real estate they leave behind are all hot commodities¡ªsecuring even one could mean prosperity for many years.


    In terms of talent, whether it''s their privately trained armed forces or the technical backbones cultivated by the Qin Family in various industries, attracting any of them could save years of development time!


    However, Qiu Tu also knew that it wasn''t just him eyeing this piece of fat meat from the Qin Family. Should the Qin Family fall, myriad forces in Xinjie City, big and small, would certainly swarm like hungry wolves to partake in this feast!


    ''So... I must determine what I want to secure in advance. And then lay out my plans early.''


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu took out pen and paper and began to sketch in his notebook. Soon, he had determined his primary target: Power.


    Whether for living better in this chaotic world or... to upgrade his Cataclysmic ability, Qiu Tu''s greatest need was to raise his position!


    His current position was Deputy Chief of the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, two ranks below Qin Zhengguang''s Deputy Division Chief, and since he had just been promoted, he was destined not to gain this Deputy Division Chief spot.


    But... with someone being promoted to Deputy Division Chief, it would certainly leave a Chief position vacant!


    Furthermore, considering the merits Qiu Tu had made recently and the connections he had developed, he felt he might be able to aim for a promotion.


    While being a Chief might seem just one level above a Deputy Chief, the Deputy Chief is only an assistant, while the Chief is the highest officer in a department, not only wielding more power but also finding it easier to place confidants and cultivate loyalists.


    It can be said that with this promotion, Qiu Tu could truly open up the situation and begin to build his own power!


    After identifying his primary target, Qiu Tu immediately determined his secondary target: Talent!


    After swindling a large sum of startup capital from Master Qin Si, Qiu Tu wasn''t really short of money.


    What he lacked was a way and a channel to increase the value of his money.


    If he could lure a group of talents from the Qin Family, regardless of the industry, with their experience and connections, he could quickly establish a foothold in a particular industry, then develop and grow it. Thereby, he would have a continuous source of money, no longer wasting away his wealth!


    As for the remaining two benefits: Money (assets) and Technology (Cloned Female Body)...


    The former was too obvious, with too many competing for it, any preemptive move by Qiu Tu would not only look suspicious but could also easily make him a target for everyone.


    The latter, with its scarcity and high value, was something Qiu Tu could hardly acquire even with stealthy plotting.


    Therefore, after weighing his options, Qiu Tu decided to forgo competing for these two benefits and focus all his efforts on seeking position and scavenging talent! Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After organizing his strategy for obtaining benefits, Qiu Tu quietly listed on paper the resources he possessed that could be used for exchange:


    He held the secret of Old Master Qin''s "Immortality";


    He had incriminating evidence against Commissioner Qin "Qin Heng";


    He had a list of all the officials in Xinjie City involved in the case, obtained from Third Master Qin, Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Bai Ru;


    He had the yet-to-be-altered property titles and deeds of Master Qin Si;


    He had two pieces of Cataclysmic Material, several Cataclysmic Props;


    He had leads and suspects from the recent "Pharmacy Robbery Case";


    He knew the true identity of Liu Fuping, and so on...


    After lining up the resources he had listed, potential allies, and the things he wanted to acquire, Qiu Tu quickly organized his plan.


    Once he had finished crafting his plan, Qiu Tu, with a serious face, memorized the contents of the paper and then used a match to burn the paper completely clean.


    After doing all this, Qiu Tu got up and tried walking a few steps to ensure that the aftereffects of using his Cataclysmic ability had passed, then took out a special Communicator that Qin Shuman had given him and called her.


    As the call connected, the coy voice of Qin Shuman came through the receiver, "Chief Qiu~~ how is your progress? Can we start taking action? I really can''t wait..."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu chuckled, then replied, "Then don''t be hasty. I''m calling you this time because I want to propose a deal to you."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman immediately became interested, "A trade? What kind of trade?"


    Qiu Tu, "A kind of insurance..."


    On the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman, dressed in yellow-green military uniform, looked out at the continuous drizzle, her charming face all smiles, "Oh? Insurance? Do tell..."


    Ten minutes later, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had finished their phone call.


    Then he sat quietly in the interrogation room for a while, ensuring that nothing was overlooked before he cleaned up the ashes at the scene and exited the interrogation room.


    At this time, Chen Feng and Ah-Kun, who had finished organizing the video and audio materials, were already waiting outside the door.


    Qiu Tu took all the materials, looked through them carefully, and then seriously inquired about the clue and evidence search conducted by Cao Dabiao and Eagle before finally bidding everyone farewell and heading to the 9th floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    When he arrived at the 9th floor, Secretary Bai was already waiting there.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Secretary Bai smiled slightly at him then led the way with a cool detachment.


    "The Bureau Chief is in a good mood. Hopefully... the news you bring will also be good," said Secretary Bai.


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s ostensibly sarcastic words that actually contained key information, Qiu Tu''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    "It will be. Thank you for your concern, Secretary Bai. It''s chilly, make sure to take good care of yourself and not freeze to death."


    "You better take care of yourself. Right now, who knows how many people out there are wishing for your death."


    "Don''t worry, I have my ways. They''ll die before I do."


    In just a few simple exchanges, both parties covertly swapped information and expressed their concern for each other.


    At the door of Yan Chen''s office, Secretary Bai knocked gently, prompting the deep, firm voice from inside, "Come in."


    Secretary Bai opened the door and announced to the interior, "Bureau Chief, Deputy Chief Qiu has arrived."


    Inside the office, Yan Chen merely grunted in acknowledgment without saying much.


    Secretary Bai signaled to Qiu Tu, who took a deep breath and then stepped into Yan Chen''s office.


    Perhaps it was because of the rainy weather, but today, the curtains in Yan Chen''s office, unusually, were drawn back.


    The drizzling rain outside pattered against the window, creating a pleasing rhythm.


    And there sat Yan Chen by the window, quietly listening to the rain, while lowering his head to read the newspaper.


    With no newspaper office in Xinjie City, this newspaper was obviously from the Sanctuary.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu walked over and respectfully greeted, "Good day, Bureau Chief!"


    Then... he sneakily glanced at the content of the newspaper.


    The headline on the front page of the newspaper was: In order to better manage the cities in the Planning Area and expand outward, the Sanctuary is researching the establishment of higher-level administrative units in the Planning Area...


    Qiu Tu paused. Establishment of higher-level administrative units?


    Did this mean "state" or "province," those regional administrative institutions comprising dozens of cities?


    Before Qiu Tu had time to make sense of this, Yan Chen put down the newspaper, picked up a teacup beside him, took a sip of tea, and asked indifferently, "I heard you have something to report to me. Is it about the Yin Caimei case?"


    Yan Chen was indeed in a good mood today, even taking the initiative to ask another question, "How is the case going? Is the progress smooth?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu also snapped back to attention.


    He looked at Yan Chen and declared confidently, "Report to the Bureau Chief! The case has been concluded! That''s what I''m here to report!"


    "Cough cough." Perhaps the efficiency of Qiu Tu''s handling of the case was so exaggerated that even Yan Chen was taken aback and choked on his tea.


    After coughing, he wiped the moisture from the corner of his mouth, placed the teacup down, and then lifted his head to look at Qiu Tu, seeking confirmation,


    "The case is finished?"


    He glanced at the clock on the wall, did a quick calculation, and with a bit of surprise, remarked, "From the time you arrested the suspect, it''s only been three to four hours."


    "You''ve finished the case already?"


    Qiu Tu wanted precisely this kind of shock factor to aid his following plans.


    So he acknowledged with an "Mm," and stated, "Yes, Bureau Chief!"


    "I employed a small tactic. I easily broke through several suspects'' psychological defenses and obtained key information and evidence."


    "Oh? Is that so?" Upon hearing this, Yan Chen stood up, walked back to his desk, sat down, and then looked at Qiu Tu with an impassive gaze, asking, "Let''s hear it. What''s the story with this case? Who is the murderer?"


    ----


    There''ll still be 3 releases and 10k words today, posting 2 chapters first, and the 3rd chapter will be around 13:00 (feels like I can endure this schedule). Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 142 - 120: Slinging Mud at Jia Shu (10,000 Words to Seek Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu knew that the real test was finally about to come.


    Therefore, he looked at Yan Chen, listened to the "rustling" rain outside the window, and slowly said,


    "Bureau Chief, the ''Yin Caimei case'' actually consists of two separate cases."


    "The first case is the ''Yin Caimei Spy Case''."


    "The second case is the ''Yin Caimei Death Case''."


    "The murderer of the second case is simple. After our investigation and interrogation, we have locked down and confirmed the killer."


    "It is none other than one of the Four Major Transportation Merchants, Deputy Director Bai of the Civil Affairs Bureau''s son-in-law, Section Chief Bai''s husband: Qian Dafu."


    "According to his testimony, he has been working closely with the Anti-government Armed Forces, the United Front, over the years, not only supplying them with materials multiple times but also always running errands for them."


    "And Yin Caimei was an important spy for the United Front. Using her, the United Front obtained a vast amount of confidential intelligence from various departments and bureaus of City Hall."


    "Thus, when she was captured, the United Front feared she would expose their entire intelligence network, so they ordered Qian Dafu to silence her."


    "As a result, Qian Dafu used a Cataclysmic treasure, the ''Cursed Blueprint,'' to curse and remotely murder Yin Caimei, resulting in the bizarre incident of her death."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s narrative, Yan Chen nodded slightly, his aged eyes reflecting thoughtfulness.


    Looking at Yan Chen, still with drooping eyelids and wrinkles at the corners of his eyes and mouth, Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but he felt that today, Yan Chen seemed somewhat younger.


    It was not so much a change in appearance as a manifestation of vitality...


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, pondering for a moment before asking deeply, "That Cataclysmic treasure is called the ''Cursed Blueprint''?"


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, snapped back to reality, nodded, and then brought out a document that detailed the murder weapon, presenting it with both hands to Yan Chen, "Yes."


    "That Cataclysmic treasure is a set of two pieces, consisting of the ''Cursed Book'' and the ''Curse Notes''."


    "The person holding the notes can curse the person reading the book."


    "According to the location provided by Qian Dafu, we have found that notebook in the safe of his villa''s basement."


    "It indeed has the cause and time of Yin Caimei''s death written on it, matching his confession. And the handwriting has been identified as Qian Dafu''s."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then added, "Although we haven''t yet done a Catastrophe Power source comparison... it shouldn''t be wrong."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s account, Yan Chen lightly nodded, "Not bad, it''s quite an accomplishment to have managed the case to this extent in such a short time."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also replied with a smile, "Mainly, it''s because we made a lot of preparation and effort in advance."


    When receiving praise from a leader, one must never be modest. Instead, one should doubly emphasize one''s own hard work and efforts.


    Superiors rarely empathize with subordinates; if you don''t talk about your hardships, why would leaders think the task is difficult? Why would they believe you''ve done a great job?


    So... one part success, seven parts talking.


    Qiu Tu naturally began to talk about his hard work during this time, "Bureau Chief, you don''t know, ever since I took on this case, I''ve been staying up almost every night working on it!"


    "The night before last, in order to gather some clues for the case, I met with friends I knew from the past and drank until almost dawn, almost coughing up blood."


    "Yesterday, in order not to spook them and as a ploy to lull the enemy, I deliberately left work early and took my subordinates to her house for a meeting. We discussed the case until late into the night."


    "Yesterday, in order to execute the plan more perfectly, I stayed up all night discussing with the Security Department. We fought several times over the details of the investigation and the distribution of interests."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu rubbed his arms and back, saying with a wry smile, "I still feel a sore back and achy waist."


    "Even today, before wrapping up the case, I had to suppress my anxiety and butter up the suspects in the Emerald Fort to lower their guard." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "For someone as tough as Section Chief Bai Ru, just trying to extract information from her left me with a dry mouth and barely able to raise my hands."


    After finishing his speech, Qiu Tu transitioned, "Nevertheless, it''s precisely because of the efforts these past days, all the preparation and arrangements made in advance, that we were able to make the suspects admit their crimes and resolve the case in just a few hours after their arrest."


    He bowed slightly and concluded, "Of course, we''ve been working so hard to repay the Bureau Chief for the grace of knowing and recognizing us."


    "Being able to fulfill the tasks given to us by the Bureau Chief and to alleviate your worries, is a blessing we''ve cultivated over several lifetimes!"


    [Yan Chen''s satisfaction +6]


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s mix of complaints and flattery, an exceedingly rare expression of appreciation appeared on Yan Chen''s face.


    He did not merely offer a simple appraisal like "not bad" as before but instead praised directly, "Good job. If every department of the Investigation Bureau could share my concerns like you, I wouldn''t feel the lack of people to rely on!"


    However, Yan Chen wasn''t knocked over by Qiu Tu''s brown-nosing. After lavishing praise, he still sharply picked up on the sensitive information mixed into Qiu Tu''s speech.


    His tone shifted, then he suddenly asked, "However... you just mentioned that you and the Security Department studied the case late into the night? What is that about?"


    "Why would the Security Department get involved in this case?"


    His gaze was deep, showing no emotion, inscrutable.


    But... Qiu Tu had prepared various contingency plans before coming to see him, so he wasn''t flustered and displayed a surprised expression on his face.


    "Wait a minute. Bureau Chief, I didn''t catch your meaning."


    "What do you mean by why the Security Department got involved? Isn''t this... your arrangement?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s brow furrowed visibly but quickly smoothed out. He asked in an unfazed tone, "My arrangement?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, his face still showing surprise, "Yes."


    He explained, "When I took on this case, Minister Jia called me up to the rooftop and then told me you had taken an interest in me, asking me to act as a double agent in the Security Department, maintaining contact with them."


    Yan Chen''s gaze was deep, as Jia Shu had indeed discussed this matter with him.


    Seeing Yan Chen''s reaction, Qiu Tu continued, "After that, I kept in touch with the Security Department on and off, trying to gain their trust."


    "And then... after you summoned me to your office last time, where I publicly expressed suspicion of Minister Jia, he found me and told me that I had completely misunderstood your and his intention."


    "You were actually giving me a hint. Not allowing me to investigate Vice President Tian didn''t mean I couldn''t continue with the case. Then he asked me to think hard and see if I could understand your hint."


    "So... after going back, I kept trying to recall your words to me, and then... I finally understood what you were hinting at."


    "This case mostly involves officials from City Hall, and our Investigation Bureau must enforce justice impartially; there''s no way we can let it pass."


    "However... if only our Investigation Bureau investigates this matter, it''s very likely to provoke strong backlash and retaliation from City Hall."


    "At that time, although we would eradicate some scoundrels, we might also cause ill will with City Hall. We''d be restricted everywhere."


    "So, if we could cooperate with the military and the Security Department... pass this ''hot potato'' to the military, letting them take the lead, and then sit on the hills and watch the tigers fight, reaping the benefits, wouldn''t that be perfect?"


    Qiu Tu got a bit excited as he reached this point, "After I understood your hint, I thought your plan was absolutely brilliant!"


    "This way, we get the benefits; the military takes the blame! Indeed, it''s much smarter than just doggedly investigating the case as I had thought before!"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen let out a nearly imperceptible sneer through his nose.


    Qiu Tu pretended not to hear it and continued, "So soon after, I adjusted the plan according to your instructions and reported it back to Minister Jia."


    "After hearing my plan, he said he was right to trust me, that I finally understood your painstaking efforts. It was due to his affirmation that I started to cooperate with the Security Department and implement this plan..."


    "If you don''t believe me, you can call Minister Jia right now and ask if he knows about this plan."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s recount, Yan Chen took a deep breath, then quietly observed Qiu Tu with his turbid eyes.


    There was no imposing aura about him, yet Qiu Tu felt an overwhelming pressure bearing down on him.


    However, Qiu Tu also knew that he had to hold on, so he looked frankly at Yan Chen without averting his gaze, intentionally showing a hint of confusion about the situation in his eyes...


    After quietly observing Qiu Tu for a while, Yan Chen slowly retracted his gaze; he picked up his teacup, took a sip, and commented, "You people in the Political Department do have some craftiness..."


    "Being able to understand such ''hints''."


    His remark on "craftiness" seemed to carry an implication, though it was unclear whether he was referring to Qiu Tu or Jia Shu...


    [Yan Chen''s suspicion +0, satisfaction -2]


    After his evaluation, he also said indifferently, "I will verify this matter with your minister."


    "Continue with what you were saying..."


    "You mentioned the ''Yin Caimei case'' is actually two separate cases. One is the ''death incident,'' and the other is the ''espionage case.''"


    "Talk about the espionage case."


    Seeing the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu inwardly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Yan Chen was a suspicious person. His lack of doubt toward Qiu Tu meant that... his guidance had been successful.


    For now, at least, he had successfully shifted the blame for "contact with the Security Department" onto Jia Shu, further intensifying the conflict between Yan Chen and Jia Shu...


    Given the personalities of both men and their current relationship, it was unlikely that Yan Chen would question Jia Shu directly.


    Therefore, Yan Chen would probably arrange for someone to test Jia Shu or observe his subsequent reactions to determine if things were as Qiu Tu had described.


    And since Jia Shu had indeed been forewarned of the plan by Qiu Tu, he wouldn''t overreact but would calmly wait for things to unfold.


    This would only solidify the suspicion in Yan Chen''s mind that the plan was arranged by Jia Shu...


    What remained was to see how unlucky Jia Shu would be and what stance Yan Chen would take on the "espionage case"...


    Qiu Tu hadn''t forgotten that Yan Chen had always wanted to bring the Qin Family under his control, so the next steps of the case and which contingency plan to implement would depend on Yan Chen''s reactions...


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu braced himself, looked at Yan Chen, and started dropping bombshells...


    ----


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 Chapter 143 - 121: Yan Chen Satisfaction +20 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    He looked at Yan Chen, and then spoke directly, "Bureau Chief, the spy case involving Yin Caimei is very extensive."


    "It not only involves dozens of directors and commissioners, but also... very likely involves someone you highly regard."


    "Someone I highly regard?" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s eyes revealed a hint of deep thought, then he inquired, "Who?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Yan Chen with a face devoid of any expression, only filled with righteousness, "Commissioner Qin!"


    "According to our investigation, whether it''s Vice President Tian, Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, or even Yin Caimei, all are related to Commissioner Qin!"


    This time, Yan Chen''s face did not show much surprise.


    It was as if he had anticipated this, and then while sipping tea, he said expressionlessly, "Being related to these suspects... is quite normal."


    "As one of Xinjie City''s largest families, the Qin Family will have relations with various people in Xinjie City."


    Having said this, he paused, "The key is... whether this case has anything to do with him."


    Yan Chen acted as though he was sure Qiu Tu had no relevant evidence, appearing very unconcerned.


    But... Qiu Tu was waiting for him to say just that, so he stepped forward, directly placing on Yan Chen''s desk the paper records of the interrogation of Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, and Third Brother Qin.


    Then he stepped back to his original position and said, "Bureau Chief, these are the confessions of several criminal suspects and related evidence."


    "According to their testimonies, they are all subordinates of Qin Heng, Commissioner Qin, and have all followed Commissioner Qin''s commands. And it was under Commissioner Qin''s instigation that they engaged in anti-government and anti-Sanctuary actions!"


    "According to their confessions, the Qin Family rose to power with the help of the Anti-government Armed Forces. And Yin Caimei was introduced into Xinjie City by Commissioner Qin himself, who placed her as a professional spy beside Vice President Tian!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s body involuntarily froze. He tried hard to conceal his shock, but from his slightly contracting pupils and the involuntary rubbing of his fingers, his inner turmoil was still apparent.


    This time, he did not respond to Qiu Tu right away but picked up the confessions on the desk to read.


    He read for over ten minutes, and the spacious office was quiet for ten minutes.


    During this time, Qiu Tu stood straight in front of the desk, looking unwaveringly at Yan Chen, like a statue, so he also noticed every change in Yan Chen''s expression throughout.


    This man, ranking among the top three most powerful in Xinjie, did not relax his brows from the moment he picked up the confessions.


    He read the materials word by word, his lips pressing tighter and tighter.


    Qiu Tu suspected that he did not actually need to read for so long, but rather did not want to lose his composure in front of his subordinate. Or perhaps... he was pondering how to handle the matter.


    Sure enough, after finishing the several confessions in his hands, Yan Chen slowly put them down, and then said expressionlessly, "These confessions seem very interesting... they answer whatever you ask."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu understood what Yan Chen meant. So, he immediately stepped forward and placed a videotape on Yan Chen''s desk with both hands, "Bureau Chief, this is the video material of the interrogation."


    "It can be seen inside, all three of them voluntarily confessed to their issues."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then slowly said, "As for the reason... actually, I used a disposable Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasure."


    He continued, "Before cooperating with the Security Department according to your request, Minister Jia reminded me that there were interrogation-specific Cataclysmic treasures in the Security Department. So, when I negotiated with the Security Department, I specifically requested one."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s expression slowly turned grim...


    He just quietly looked at Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, he slowly said, "First... the Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures used by the Security Department are not 100% effective, but have a success rate."


    "Secondly, although Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures can ensure the authenticity of the confession, they... cannot guarantee it is the [truth]."


    "Many suspects or witnesses believe what they know to be the truth, but it''s quite possible they are just misunderstandings. This can lead to serious misdirection in case investigations."


    "Finally, and most importantly, our Investigation Bureau doesn''t have the authority to use Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures. The Sanctuary stipulates, aside from the Security Department, no other authority can consider confessions obtained using Cataclysmic treasures as valid...."


    "And even the Security Department is forbidden from using Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures on current officials."


    Upon saying this, Yan Chen slightly shook his head, his face showing a look of disappointment, then he picked up the teacup and started sipping tea again.


    But at this moment, Qiu Tu didn''t concede defeat, speaking bluntly, "Bureau Chief. I''m aware of all that you''ve mentioned."


    "Therefore, I did not plan to convict Commissioner Qin based on these confessions."


    He paused for a moment before he proceeded, "Whether it''s Qian Dafu, Qi Yun, or Third Master Qin, they all have the habit of preserving evidence!"


    "They have confessed to their privately stored evidence. That evidence is sufficient to convict Commissioner Qin with [zero confessions]!"


    "Bang!"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen slammed the teacup he had just sipped from heavily down on the table!


    He could no longer maintain his usual indifference and steadiness!


    His drooping eyelids were lifted, and his tiger-like eyes stared emotionlessly at Qiu Tu. Without uttering a word, his stance couldn''t have been clearer:


    He didn''t truly disbelieve Qiu Tu''s investigation or genuinely think the evidence was irregular, but... he simply didn''t want to investigate Commissioner Qin! S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 144 - 121: Yan Chen Satisfaction +20 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed inwardly, knowing that the worst possible situation he had predicted had indeed materialized.


    Actually... ever since he had thoroughly investigated the case and learned that Commissioner Qin (Old Master Qin) was the mastermind behind the scenes, Qiu Tu had sensed that something about the trajectory of events seemed off.


    He had indeed known that the Qin Family was very likely involved in this matter and had even suspected that they had played a significant role in this case. But he really hadn''t anticipated that they would be so deeply entangled, even being the direct mastermind!


    Keep in mind, Commissioner Qin is not just the head of City Hall or the patriarch of the Qin Family, but also... a big shot who had just pledged allegiance to Yan Chen.


    It was precisely because of Commissioner Qin''s allegiance that Yan Chen''s influence in Xinjie City had fully inflated: his power knew no bounds and was no longer confined to the Investigation Bureau.


    With the help of the Qin Family, the local powerhouse, all sectors in Xinjie City and all areas related to the people''s livelihood at City Hall were within Yan Chen''s reach.


    This was not as simple as one plus one equals two; it completely unlocked the expansion of Yan Chen''s power.


    So... for him to suddenly sever his biggest support, and topple the most significant vassal who had just pledged allegiance to him, how could he possibly accept that?


    The downfall of the Qin Family might benefit all forces within Xinjie City, everyone except Yan Chen...


    Therefore, after discovering Commissioner Qin was the mastermind, Qiu Tu had remained silent for a while.


    Honestly, at that time, he didn''t believe Yan Chen to be the kind of person who would sacrifice personal gains for the sake of "national" righteousness.


    But to determine what kind of man Yan Chen truly was, to ease future confrontations, Qiu Tu still repeatedly tested Yan Chen when he tried to cover up Commissioner Qin''s crimes.


    However, now it seems, he "wasn''t wrong" about Yan Chen.


    And, precisely because he had seen through Yan Chen long ago... all of this had been within his expectations, and he had already made the necessary arrangements well in advance.


    Thinking this way, upon seeing Yan Chen''s anger, Qiu Tu immediately switched faces according to the plan.


    He smiled at Yan Chen and said, "Bureau Chief, I think you might have misunderstood."


    "Misunderstood?" Yan Chen''s eyes flashed coldly, "Explain."


    Qiu Tu bowed slightly, then whispered, "What I said just now is all true."


    "With that evidence, even without a confession, Commissioner Qin will definitely not be able to escape responsibility."


    Seeing Yan Chen furrow his brows once more, Qiu Tu quickly added, "But!"


    "This case was initiated at your suggestion. No matter how many clues and pieces of evidence I find, they need to be reported to you..."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu just looked at Yan Chen, his smile incredibly sincere. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He didn''t continue his sentence, but his implication was crystal clear: As for what Yan Chen would do with those clues, whether he would delve deeper into the case or have a chat with Commissioner Qin, that was Yan Chen''s decision.


    His mission was done; he wouldn''t pursue this case any further.


    He was entirely at Yan Chen''s disposal...


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen was initially startled, then his expression became somewhat profound.


    His body relaxed gradually, leaning back into the executive chair, and while he scrutinized Qiu Tu without changing his expression, he slowly said, "Qiu Tu... I never saw you to be this clever before."


    Still bowing, Qiu Tu smiled and replied, "It''s all thanks to the opportunities for experience you''ve given me over this period, allowing me to grow."


    One has to admit, Qiu Tu''s talent in employing the sycophantic tactics from his previous life pleased Yan Chen enormously. His gaze softened.


    But even so, he didn''t forget the most crucial matter.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and slowly said, "Where are the evidence and clues then?"


    Qiu Tu immediately sobered up, "The investigation team is still searching. They should have results soon."


    "Let me ask!"


    With that, Qiu Tu took out his Communicator, giving Yan Chen a querying look.


    After seeing Yan Chen nod, Qiu Tu made a call to Chen Feng, even switching on the loudspeaker.


    The call connected in two seconds, and Chen Feng''s voice came through the speaker, "Chief! May I ask what the matter is?"


    Qiu Tu''s expression grew serious as he said, "How''s the search for evidence going? Do Big Biao and the others have a result?"


    Chen Feng reported earnestly, "We haven''t searched Third Master Qin''s residence yet, but the searches at Qian Dafu and Qi Yun''s residences are complete! We found evidence of Commissioner Qin''s criminal activities!"


    Qiu Tu heard the words, covered the mouthpiece, and then said to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, the subordinates reported that the evidence saved by Qian Dafu and Qi Yun has all been found. But the Qin Family hasn''t been searched yet."


    "What do you think...?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was truly obedient, a smile finally appeared on Yan Chen''s face as he said lightly, "There''s no need to search the Qin Family for the time being."


    "After all, they have a huge influence and have made significant contributions to the entire Xinjie City."


    "You''ve already arrested Third Brother Qin and Director Qin, giving them a warning. If we search again, people outside might think something big has happened."


    "This is not conducive to the unity and stability of Xinjie City."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu quickly nodded and then said into the communicator, "No need to search the Qin Family for now."


    "Tell Cao Dabiao to seal all evidence found in the villas of Qian Dafu and Qi Yun on the spot, no one is allowed to view it! Then have them bring all that evidence back to the Investigation Bureau immediately!"


    "After arriving at the Investigation Bureau, don''t go to the Political Department, come straight to the Bureau Chief''s office."


    "If anyone has checked the evidence just now, remember to issue a gag order on them!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Chen Feng quickly responded, "Yes! Officer!"


    After arranging everything, Qiu Tu put down the communicator and then inquired, "Bureau Chief, does that seem okay to you?"


    [Yan Chen satisfaction +20]


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s compliance, the corners of Yan Chen''s eyes crinkled with a smile, finding Qiu Tu more and more to his liking...


    But what he didn''t know was...


    At the Political Department''s interrogation area.


    After hanging up the phone, Chen Feng was just about to call Cao Dabiao.


    Just then, Ah-Kun who had been standing by his side suddenly popped up and asked curiously, "Detective Chen, was that Brother Tu on the phone just now?"


    Chen Feng glanced at him strangely and grunted in affirmation.


    Upon hearing this, Ah-Kun nodded and then turned to go to the nearby restroom.


    Entering the restroom, Ah-Kun took out the Special Communicator Qiu Tu had given him and dialed a number.


    After a while, the call connected, without any sound coming from the other side.


    Ah-Kun waited silently for two seconds and then hung up the phone as per Qiu Tu''s instruction.


    Having done all this, Ah-Kun tucked the Special Communicator away, undid his pants, and relieved himself.


    After finishing up in the restroom, he washed his hands, humming a tune as he left.


    His normal routine and demeanor did not alert the other detectives also relieving themselves in the restroom; none sensed anything amiss...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Xinjie Military Department, Security Department, Investigation Department office.


    Qin Shuman sighed softly, looking out at the gradually darkening sky and murmured to herself, "He really anticipated it."


    After speaking, she put down the communicator, picked up a document, and turned to walk to the Director of the Security Department''s office...


    ...


    At the same time, at the Investigation Bureau, Bureau Chief''s office.


    Perhaps because he was already in a good mood today, and adding to that Qiu Tu''s compliance, Yan Chen''s expression brightened significantly.


    He leaned back in his chair, looking at Qiu Tu with satisfaction, and asked, "Qiu Tu, you''ve handled this case very well, I''m very pleased."


    "I am not a petty person. Tell me, what reward would you like?"


    ----


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 Chapter 145 - 122 Xinjie City Trembles! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu didn''t act like many subordinates who would hastily decline and refuse.


    One must definitely accept what the boss gives!


    From the psychological perspective, demanding can enhance relationships more than giving.


    Thus, with a smile, he said, "Bureau Chief, having the opportunity to work for you is my fortune."


    "If you really want me to make a request, I only wish to be closer to you and take on more of your worries."


    Possibly because Yan Chen had never been subjected to Qiu Tu''s flattery in his previous life, Yan Chen was so taken with Qiu Tu''s relentless bootlicking that he laughed out loud.


    He pointed his finger at Qiu Tu and nodded, "You, you, haha."


    Having said that, he also quietly pondered the hidden request within Qiu Tu''s flattery...


    "Wanting to be closer to him" "To take on more of his worries"... this was basically a roundabout way of wanting a "promotion."


    If one were to follow the normal process of promotion or the Sanctuary''s assessments, an official like Qiu Tu with a common background, who had already been promoted recently, wouldn''t be promoted a second time right away.


    But... now it''s the initial stage of Xinjie City''s formation, and many promotions are being handled fairly casually. Moreover, there are a few vacant director positions in each department, so... it''s not entirely impossible...


    Moreover... with the Qin Family''s recent troubles, although Qin Heng can''t be touched, some middle-level officials associated with the Qin Family, like Qin Zhengguang, still need to be dealt with. Many positions will become vacant.


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with an encouraging gaze and slowly said, "I understand your thoughts."


    "When the time comes, I will pay attention."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu immediately pretended to be excited and said, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Afterward, Qiu Tu even took the initiative to pour tea and water for Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen... was even more satisfied.


    [Yan Chen''s Satisfaction +4]


    After pouring the water, Qiu Tu set the thermos aside, then with a troubled look said, "Bureau Chief, actually... aside from what we discussed earlier, I have another rather presumptuous request."


    Yan Chen, who was in a good mood, didn''t mind Qiu Tu''s boldness and hummed inquisitively, "What else is there?"


    Qiu Tu, looking embarrassed, said, "During this period, because of investigating the Yin Caimei case, I frequently received threats from various powers, both overt and covert."


    "Today, again, four directors and the Four Major Transportation Merchants were arrested. I fear someone might take desperate measures and try to assassinate me."


    "So... could I stay by your side these next couple of days, serving you tea and water, and being at your beck and call."


    "This way, even if someone does want to harm me, seeing me by your side, they would probably not dare to make a move."


    Saying this, and perhaps worried Yan Chen wouldn''t agree, Qiu Tu quickly glanced at the clock and said, "At 6 o''clock tonight, it will be the time I agreed upon with the Security Department."


    "At that time, they will take over the case and begin arresting the officials involved."


    "Once tonight is over and they have successfully attracted the attention of the various powers, I should be safe."


    "Then, I will leave on my own and no longer trouble you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu mention the Security Department''s involvement again, Yan Chen''s smile slowly faded.


    He didn''t directly answer Qiu Tu''s question but instead asked, "Are you certain they are only pursuing the officials from City Hall?"


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then tentatively replied, "Their promise to exchange information with me was just that."


    "And besides... those officials were only involved with Yin Caimei, infiltrated by her and leaked some confidential information. Strictly speaking, they aren''t spies."


    "So, investigating them could only lead to Yin Caimei or the Four Major Transportation Merchants at most, right?"


    "Now that both the Four Major Transportation Merchants and Director Qin, Third Master Qin, are in our hands, even if they wanted to continue investigating, they probably couldn''t go any further, could they...?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s series of speculative questions, Yan Chen thoughtfully nodded.


    Then a smile crept back onto his face, "All right, you can stay by my side today."


    "Thank you, Bureau Chief!" Hearing Yan Chen''s affirmative response, Qiu Tu quickly expressed his gratitude! And inside... he quietly breathed a sigh of relief.


    The last step of the plan: an alibi, was finally completed.


    The rest is up to fate now...


    In the following time, Qiu Tu became Yan Chen''s assistant, serving tea and water, managing documents, and attending to arrivals and departures.


    Although Qiu Tu stayed by Yan Chen''s side merely to complete his mission, he also cherished this opportunity to learn and observe the work of the Investigation Bureau''s highest-ranking official.


    By Yan Chen''s side, he saw many confidential documents; witnessed discussions between Yan Chen and various directors and deputy directors; and saw Yan Chen''s skilled techniques in managing subordinates: rebuking, balancing, promising, and the carrot-and-stick approach, all came naturally to him...


    Even though he was performing an assistant''s duties for those several hours, he would still take advantage of any lulls to put himself in Yan Chen''s place, considering how to handle the same situations and problems.


    This learning process deepened his understanding of the entire Investigation Bureau''s operations and how to manage his subordinates.


    Besides what he learned, serving as Yan Chen''s "temporary assistant" also allowed Qiu Tu to gain favor in front of the Investigation Bureau''s various directors and deputy directors.


    Being retained by Yan Chen as an assistant is a clear sign of being one of Yan Chen''s confidants, part of his inner circle. This was a very obvious political signal.


    So, it didn''t take long before various rumors about Qiu Tu began to quietly spread within the Investigation Bureau, and more and more investigators came to know about Qiu Tu, the Deputy Staff who had recently made a dramatic rise in the Bureau....


    Just like that, time passed by, second by second.


    Soon, it was 6 o''clock.


    Qiu Tu glanced out of the window, which was pitch black and devoid of any light.


    The heavy rain that had lasted all day hadn''t stopped with the coming of night; in fact, it seemed to have gotten even heavier.


    Thinking of what would happen on this rainy night, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but tighten his grip slightly.


    Yan Chen didn''t notice Qiu Tu''s unease. After finishing a document, Yan Chen put down his pen and asked expressionlessly, "It''s time for dinner. Do you want to eat with me?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly took up the offer, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen: ...


    Actually, Yan Chen was feeling a bit annoyed with Qiu Tu''s constant presence by his side and wanted to send him away for some peace and quiet.


    But since Qiu Tu had already accepted, him being one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, it wouldn''t be appropriate to take back his offer. So he only let out a subdued "Hmm," picked up the phone, and ordered two sets of four dishes and one soup for dinner.


    Thanks to sharing in Yan Chen''s light, Qiu Tu also got to experience a dinner fit for a Bureau Chief. Plus, having been with the Bureau Chief''s mistress, after a bit of rounding up, he basically was....


    When dinner was served, Qiu Tu was full of anticipation, expecting some kind of delicacy! But when each dish was revealed... it turned out, to his dismay, that all four dishes plus the soup were entirely vegetarian!


    Even the soup was cucumber egg drop soup!


    At that moment, his face turned as green as the soup.


    He realized then that he and Yan Chen fundamentally did not get along.


    As a meat lover, how could he possibly coexist with a vegetarian!


    Hastily finishing their meals, they both plunged back into work: Yan Chen reviewed documents while Qiu Tu stood by, lost in thought.


    But this time, they didn''t work for long before the office door was knocked on urgently.


    "Knock knock knock."


    At the sound of the urgent knocking, Yan Chen shot a glance at Qiu Tu. Qiu Tu understood and went to open the door.


    Standing at the door was Secretary Bai.


    Secretary Bai had learned that Qiu Tu was serving as a temporary assistant to Yan Chen that afternoon, so he wasn''t surprised, merely nodding slightly before quickly stepping into the office.


    Qiu Tu closed the door behind him and followed him inside.


    As he walked into the office, before he even reached Yan Chen''s side, Qiu Tu heard Secretary Bai rapidly reporting the intelligence to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, we just received news. Half an hour ago, the Security Department mobilized various divisions and arrested a group of mid to low-level officials from City Hall."


    "Departments like the Bureau of Education, Environmental and Sanitation Bureau, and Commerce and Economic Development Bureau have all been affected. Even... a Director has been arrested."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s report, Yan Chen looked up at him and asked gravely, "Is there a detailed list?"


    Secretary Bai was able to become Yan Chen''s right-hand man, the steward of the entire Investigation Bureau, because his capabilities were extremely exceptional. So upon Yan Chen''s question, he immediately took out a prepared list.


    Yan Chen took the list, quickly read through it, and then showed a smile on his face.


    He did not comment further but instead handed the list to Qiu Tu, who was standing by his side.


    Qiu Tu received the list with both hands and looked it over as well.


    The names on the list were all familiar. They were the ones confessed by Third Brother Qin, Qian Dafu, and Qi Yun, which he then provided to Qin Shuman. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The entire list contained 21 people, covering almost all the departments and bureaus of City Hall, including one Director, three Deputy Directors, and 17 Heads and Deputy Staff.


    One could say... with this list out, Xinjie City was turned upside down!


    Of course... the military and City Hall would most certainly become adversaries!


    This outcome brought quite a few more smiles to Yan Chen''s face.


    [[Yan Chen Satisfaction +6]]


    He spoke to Secretary Bai with a smile, "Alright, I''ve got it. Next, have someone keep a close eye on the Security Department''s actions tonight. Report to me immediately if there are any issues."


    Secretary Bai, hearing this, acknowledged and then left the office.


    After Secretary Bai had gone, Yan Chen stood up and took the initiative to pat Qiu Tu on the shoulder as a gesture of encouragement.


    Clearly, although the case wasn''t progressing as he had envisioned, it had unexpectedly satisfied him.


    Feeling Yan Chen''s happiness, Qiu Tu kept a smile on his face, but in his heart, he was secretly sneering: Keep laughing... keep laughing, in a moment you won''t be able to anymore...


    ------


    We continue with a 10,000-word triple release for chapter 3. Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 146 - 123: Twist! Stabbing Yan Chen in the Back! (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    ```


    7 o''clock.


    Cao Dabiao and others returned with the evidence and voluntarily delivered it to Yan Chen''s office.


    Possibly setting foot in the Bureau Chief''s office for the first time, Cao Dabiao was visibly trembling.


    As he placed the sealed evidence down, he almost knocked over Yan Chen''s water glass.


    But Yan Chen, in a good mood, didn''t mind, and even encouraged Cao Dabiao with a few words after examining the evidence.


    And Yan Chen, who had obtained evidence of Commissioner Qin''s collusion with United Front and long-term provision of supplies and placements of spies for them, finally felt at ease....


    He went to the inner office and solemnly locked the evidence in the safe, sealing it away.


    7:30 p.m.


    Secretary Bai once again came to Yan Chen''s office.


    This time, he brought with him the second list of people arrested by the Security Department.


    This time, although the number of people on the list had decreased compared to the first one, the quality was in no way inferior.


    Out of the 12 people, there was 1 Commissioner, 2 Deputy Commissioners, and 9 Chiefs and Deputy Chiefs.


    With the first batch, in just one short hour, the Security Department had arrested 33 middle and senior officials from the City Hall.


    Especially that Commissioner.


    After all, there were only seven Commissioners in City Hall, responsible for various works in Xinjie City. Theoretically, even the Investigation Bureau and the military had to be supervised and directed by these Commissioners.


    But now.... one was directly arrested by the military! This was a blatant slap in the face of the Municipal Committee!


    It was said that Commissioner Jiang from the Municipal Committee was furious, and personally called General Ye from the military to confront him!


    But General Ye, known for his iron-fisted approach, showed no fear of Commissioner Jiang''s threats. With a single remark, "The Security Department is a national security organ directly under Sanctuary with the authority to monitor and investigate officials at all levels," he effectively shut down the argument.


    Rumor has it that Commissioner Jiang, in a fit of anger after the call, smashed his favorite antique porcelain vase in his office!


    That was an antique from before the Cataclysm, with craftsmanship long lost. Each piece destroyed meant one less in the world, and its value was beyond measure.


    Upon hearing about this, Yan Chen also laughed and smoked two cigarettes in a row, even offering one to Qiu Tu and specially permitting him to smoke in the office.


    8 o''clock.


    It was Ji Chen, who had once had a brief encounter with Qiu Tu, that came to the office this time.


    He reported to Yan Chen a piece of explosive news: Director Dai of the Security Department had submitted evidence of Vice President Tian colluding with United Front and engaging in illegal activities to Sanctuary and had applied for a "special investigation warrant."


    Just now, Sanctuary had responded to the request, agreeing to Director Dai''s application and temporarily revoking the Peak Third-Level Medal previously awarded to Vice President Tian, stripping him of his immunity and the right to participate in and discuss politics.


    The Security Department immediately took coercive measures against Vice President Tian. He has now been arrested and detained.


    For Yan Chen, this news was neither particularly good nor bad.


    However, the bigger the case was handled, the more spotlight the military would gain, the more likely it was to become a target for various powers.


    And as the initiator of the case, the Investigation Bureau, always hiding behind the military, not only had protection from the military''s presence but could also profit quietly¡ªno matter how much credit the military took for this case, they had to share the spoils with the Investigation Bureau.


    Such tactics also made Yan Chen once again increase his appreciation for Qiu Tu who had come up with the plan. And even Jia Shu, who had hinted at the plan, seemed more pleasing to the eye.


    The rain continued to "pitter-patter" outside, and the tremors among Xinjie City''s middle-rankings persisted.


    At 8:30 p.m., Qiu Tu and Yan Chen left the Investigation Bureau together in a car, heading back to Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in City Center Garden.


    Perhaps due to the presence of Yan Chen and surrounding guards, no one attempted to assassinate Qiu Tu.


    By 9 o''clock, the two arrived at Yan Chen''s villa.


    At 9:10 p.m., they got out of the car and entered Yan Chen''s study.


    Qiu Tu naturally boiled water for tea, attending to Yan Chen as attentively as a real assistant.


    But.... just when everything seemed to be going smoothly.


    9:20 p.m.


    Suddenly, a series of urgent knocks on the door rang out.


    Yan Chen, who had been writing documents accompanied by the sound of the rain, "swoosh, swoosh, swoosh," was jolted from his thoughts.


    He glanced at Qiu Tu standing by his side, already yawning with fatigue, and signaled to him.


    Qiu Tu quickly stifled his yawn and hurried to open the ornate door of the study.


    Standing outside was a very anxious Ji Chen.


    Seeing the door open, he didn''t even bother to greet Qiu Tu but rushed straight into the study, swiftly walking over to Yan Chen, bent down, and whispered a few words.


    Hearing his words, Yan Chen, who had been busy writing, suddenly turned pale; a "snap!" was heard as the steel pen in his hand broke unintentionally!


    But without caring about the pen, he looked up abruptly, his eyes furiously fixed on Qiu Tu, who was just closing the door!


    In that instant, with his back to both men, Qiu Tu felt a dreadfully oppressive aura enveloping him, as if preyed upon by a massive beast, causing goosebumps all over his body and leaving him petrified!


    The dark study was like a devouring monster with an open maw. The dim light of the desk lamp only illuminated a small area beneath the desk. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen was seated in that spot, his hands smeared with black ink from the pen, his face as dark as the rain outside, motionlessly staring at Qiu Tu....


    ```


    At that moment, Qiu Tu also became aware of the imminent danger. He dared not make any movements and could only slowly turn around, staring at Yan Chen with a face filled with shock and suspicion. Tentatively, he asked, "Director... what happened?"


    Yan Chen was clearly infuriated by the message he had received. He slammed his hand on the table with a thunderous "Bang!" causing everything on the table to jump a few centimeters!


    Then he glared at Qiu Tu and demanded, "Qiu Tu! What on earth is going on with the Security Department!"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu deliberately put on a look of confusion and asked in puzzlement, "The Security Department? What happened with the Security Department?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s "feigned ignorance," Yan Chen took a deep breath to suppress the rage within him and then gestured to Ji Chen with a wave of his hand.


    Ji Chen, expressionless, stood up and faced Qiu Tu, saying, "Chief Qiu, just a moment ago, the Security Department took Commissioner Qin away from the Qin Family."


    "At the same time, they have deployed troops to seal off the entire Qin Family, prohibiting anyone from entering or exiting."


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu''s heart remained perfectly calm, but his face displayed an expression of disbelief, "They took Commissioner Qin away?! Why?!"


    "Is it because of the Yin Caimei case?"


    Qiu Tu exclaimed in surprise, "But do they have any evidence? Without evidence, isn''t this wrongful arrest?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s convincingly genuine expression, Yan Chen''s face gradually softened, and he asked in a deep voice, "Do you really not know what this is about?"


    Qiu Tu hastily shook his head and swore with his hands raised, "Director, I really have no idea what''s going on!"


    Yan Chen, upon hearing this, took a deep breath.


    His demeanor was grave, his gaze penetrating as if he were making some sort of judgment.


    After a moment, he picked up the desk phone and dialed a number.


    Soon, the call connected and a somewhat sinister voice came from the other end, "Director Yan?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen replied with a forced smile, "It''s me, Director Dai. I heard you''ve just taken Commissioner Qin away? And you''ve also sealed off the entire Qin Family?"


    "May I ask for the reason?"


    Hearing the conversation between the two, Qiu Tu immediately guessed that Yan Chen was calling Dai Yukang, the head of the Security Department, who was Qin Shuman''s immediate superior.


    Despite his title as "Director," Dai Yukang''s position was of high rank. He held the military rank of Senior Colonel in the military, second only to General Ye as the second-in-command of the Xinjie City Military Department.


    If placed within the Investigation Bureau, he would be at the position of the first Deputy Director. His status was even higher than that of Tang Feifei.


    This was why Yan Chen would speak to him directly, and even why his tone was so nuanced.


    As Qiu Tu thought this, Dai Yukang began to speak.


    He stated in an indifferent tone, "Director Yan, if we dare to arrest an official of such a high level, it is certainly because we have conclusive evidence."


    "However, since you''ve asked personally, I will speak frankly. The Qin Family is likely a nail planted in Xinjie City by the United Front. The United Front is not only the Qin Family''s financial backer, having supported them to rise to prominence, but over the years, they have also been loyally serving the United Front."


    "Much of Xinjie City''s intelligence has been leaked by the Qin Family, and many spies from anti-government armed forces have been implanted by the Qin Family."


    "We dared to act and arrest them because we have ample evidence. In fact, before making the arrest, I even wrote a report to the Sanctuary and obtained approval before proceeding."


    Having said that, Dai Yukang paused for a moment, then added cautiously, "Director Yan, I know you have some personal ties with Commissioner Qin."


    "But... I still need to remind you. This time, you may have misjudged the person."


    After that, Director Dai found an excuse and hung up the phone.


    After the call, Yan Chen didn''t erupt in rage as Qiu Tu had expected. Instead, he sat quietly in his chair for a while.


    Then, he opened a drawer and took out a cigarette and matches.


    "Strike... strike..."


    Scraping a match, he brought the flame to the cigarette in his mouth, Yan Chen squinted his eyes as he took a deep inhale.


    Surrounded by swirls of smoke, his face appeared faint and elusive.


    The atmosphere in the study became serene for a time.


    After a while, Yan Chen picked up the desk phone again and dialed a few numbers.


    The call connected shortly after.


    With a raspy voice, Yan Chen said, "Go check my safe. See if there''s a black iron box with evidence inside."


    After giving the instruction, Yan Chen hung up and continued to smoke.


    A few minutes later, the desk phone rang and Yan Chen answered it.


    A man''s deep voice came through, "Bureau Chief, the safe contains the black iron box you mentioned, but¡­ it is empty. There is no evidence!"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen''s face grew even more troubled.


    Qiu Tu, upon seeing this, still maintained a confused and puzzled expression on his face, but inwardly he was bursting with joy...


    It looked like his plan for the evening had been executed perfectly!


    This stab in the back should leave Director Yan completely befuddled!


    ------


    Three chapters with 10,000 words each, updated continuously. The daily 10,000-word update continues tomorrow! Asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 147 - 124: Qiu Tus Deal with the Security Department (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    The rain outside the window went "pitter-patter," hitting the windowpanes, sounding especially clear in the silent study.


    Yan Chen''s face was gloomy as he spoke to the person on the other end of the phone, "Have Old Chu from the Political Department... no, have Old Chu come over to inspect the traces. See if any fingerprints or other clues were left."


    "Call Old Huang and ask him to bring you some Cataclysmic treasures to check for traces of Catastrophe Power."


    "Yes," the person on the other end of the phone quickly responded to Yan Chen''s words.


    After hanging up the phone, Yan Chen took a deep breath and extinguished his cigarette fiercely on the desk! Then his tiger-like eyes calmly stared at Qiu Tu, as if pondering something.


    Qiu Tu tried to appear as normal as possible, so his eyes conveyed innocence while looking at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen stared at Qiu Tu silently for a while, then he finally said somberly, "You heard the last two phone calls."


    Qiu Tu gave a "hmm" in response.


    Yan Chen, "Any thoughts?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s question, Qiu Tu tried his best to forget all of his plans for the day, putting himself in the shoes of an investigator who knew nothing of the matter.


    He pondered in silence for a moment, then ventured, "Could it be that a mole has surfaced within the Investigation Bureau?"


    Yan Chen stared coldly at Qiu Tu, not saying a word. Because... what Qiu Tu said was a platitude: without a mole, could the evidence have flown away by itself?


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu carefully spoke, "I feel the mole is likely someone by your side."


    Yan Chen, expressionless, went "Oh?" and asked, "Why do you say that?"


    Qiu Tu replied with a sheepish smile, "Because... only someone close to you would know your safe''s password and be aware of your habit of placing evidence in the safe, right?"


    Yan Chen, clearly not really interested in Qiu Tu''s analysis but rather looking for any telltale signs or slip-ups in his words, gave an "hmm" and asked, "So, do you have a suspect in mind?"


    Qiu Tu coughed and provided Yan Chen with an unexpected choice, "Secretary Bai?"


    Perhaps this choice was too surprising for Yan Chen, so he looked slightly moved and took two seconds to think before asking, "Why him?"


    Qiu Tu tentatively said, "It''s just a guess."


    "After all, Secretary Bai is one of your most trusted individuals. He would definitely have a thorough understanding of your habits and probably also knows your safe''s password."


    "Moreover, when the investigation team came to deliver the evidence, he was the one who brought them in. So he knows that after the evidence entered your office, it never left."


    "Plus, he was aware of my reason for seeking you out, so he could guess what evidence the investigation team delivered."


    "All these factors make him satisfy all the prerequisites for this case."


    Yan Chen seemingly truly considered if Secretary Bai was the thief. After a moment, he asked, "And the motive?"


    Given Qiu Tu''s relationship with Secretary Bai, of course, he wouldn''t actually smear Secretary Bai to cover for himself. He was merely using Secretary Bai to lead into the next part of the conversation...


    So, after hesitating a bit, he said, "I''m guessing... could Secretary Bai have a conflict with the Qin Family?"


    "Or perhaps, he feels that since the Qin Family has sided with you, his position by your side is at risk?"


    "Or maybe... he''s had some conflicts with you recently? Simply wanting revenge?"


    "Or perhaps, he... secretly reached some sort of agreement with the military or City Hall? Is this a Letter of Challenge?"


    Qiu Tu''s successive hypotheses regarding motives made Yan Chen frown deeply. Because... as he listened to each motive Qiu Tu proposed, the suspect Yan Chen thought of was not Secretary Bai, but... Jia Shu.


    After all, although Secretary Bai was his right-hand man, his role largely involved administrative work, such as filing all the information and tasks, or dealing with various matters within the Bureau.


    Such tasks, while still influential, were actually very intricate, meticulous, and difficult to wield power outwardly. Thus, few of his peers wished to replace Secretary Bai or compete with him.


    In contrast, Jia Shu was different.


    Also his right-hand man, Jia Shu was not only closer to him, but he also commanded the Political Department, the most powerful department in the Investigation Bureau.


    Furthermore, many of his private matters were instructed to be handled by Jia Shu, which allowed Jia Shu to often exercise his power in Xinjie City in his stead ¡ª this was also a major reason why Xinjie City feared the Political Department.


    So should the Qin Family get too close to Yan Chen, it would inevitably affect Jia Shu''s status in his heart. Many tasks would no longer require Jia Shu''s assistance, further weakening Jia Shu''s power in the whole of Xinjie City.


    Considering that Jia Shu knew the safe''s password and was aware that he had the habit of placing evidence into that safe...


    Suddenly, Jia Shu became a much more suspicious figure in Yan Chen''s mind.


    More importantly, because of the Yin Caimei case, Jia Shu had been at odds with Yan Chen recently, and he had shown an unusual level of interest in the case. Not even Yan Chen knew what role Jia Shu played in it, which undeniably increased his suspicion.


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen''s brows were deeply furrowed, and for a moment, he was too preoccupied to suspect Qiu Tu... sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    As the Chief of the Investigation Bureau, Yan Chen''s word was law within the Bureau. He didn''t need to go through the layers of approval or wait for his superior to collect the Cataclysmic treasures, unlike Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, just 10 minutes later, the phone rang again.


    By this time, the study had already been quiet for 10 minutes.

 Chapter 148 - 124: Qiu Tus Deal with the Security Department (10,000 Words for Subscription!)_2

    In those ten minutes, Yan Chen simply continued to smoke quietly; so, a few more cigarette butts accumulated in the ashtray, and the entire study was shrouded in a fog-like haze. Coupled with the mist seeping in from the outside, it truly resembled a Fallen Immortal Realm...


    Amidst that white fog, Yan Chen slowly picked up the receiver of the landline, his voice hoarse as he said, "Hello?"


    The voice of the man Yan Chen had contacted earlier came from the other end of the phone, "Bureau Chief, Old Chu checked the fingerprints on that black box, and found that only yours were on it."


    "As for the safe, apart from yours and mine, there were only the fingerprints of Secretary Bai and Minister Jia; no trace of outsiders."


    "Regarding the surveillance outside the office, we''ve looked into that too. Due to confidentiality principles, the cameras on the ninth floor were not activated. So, there is no footage at the moment."


    At this point, the man paused, then continued, "And about the Cataclysmic traces at the scene, we used a ''Retrospective Locator'' to pinpoint, confirming that around 8:30, which is after you left the Investigation Bureau, someone used Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysmic treasures on this safe..."


    The man concluded, "In summary, we suspect that a Cataclysmic might have stolen the important documentation from your safe."


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen''s eyes darkened like deep pools. He hummed an acknowledgment and said, "Keep looking for more clues."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone.


    His hands rested quietly on the table; at that moment, Yan Chen was like a volcano yet to erupt¡ªhis expression was calm, but no one knew how much anger he harbored within.


    Just then, the door to the study was knocked upon from the outside with a "thud, thud, thud."


    Hearing the knocking, Qiu Tu looked towards Yan Chen, wondering if he should go answer it. But before he could ask, Ji Chen had already walked over to the carved door of the study and opened it.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Even a lousy assistant''s job has competitors! The job market is indeed tough!


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also glanced towards the doorway of the study.


    Standing at the door was Secretary Bai.


    He seemed to have just come back from outside, with his trouser legs and shoes still showing water marks.


    The fact that his left shoulder, and even half of his left side, was wet, clearly indicated that he... had not come alone, but was accompanied by another person of esteemed status.


    As Qiu Tu was contemplating this, Secretary Bai walked into the study. He nodded at Ji Chen first and then surveyed Qiu Tu with an expressionless face before walking up to Yan Chen.


    Bending down, he whispered into Yan Chen''s ear, "Bureau Chief, Yanyan has been brought back."


    "Due to the rain, I drove slowly on the road and got delayed a bit."


    "I had the maid take her to bathe and drink some ginger soup just now."


    "She misses you a little and wants you to keep her company."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Yan Chen grunted deeply and said coldly, "I''m busy today; let her rest on her own."


    After that, he said to Secretary Bai, "There''s actually something I need to discuss with you; stay for a moment."


    Then Yan Chen looked up at Qiu Tu.


    Compared to his warm demeanor towards Qiu Tu during the day, his current gaze held a noticeable trace of disdain, "Qiu Tu, you can step out first."


    "We have some matters to discuss."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s command, Qiu Tu didn''t care much: he was quite understanding. If you stabbed someone hard on the back, of course you had to allow them to be angry.


    So he obediently said, "All right, Bureau Chief."


    After speaking, he left the study.


    As he gently closed the carved door of the study, Qiu Tu faintly heard Yan Chen''s distinctive low, hoarse voice slowly begin, "There might be a mole among the senior staff of the Investigation Bureau..."


    Clearly, Yan Chen was preparing to discuss tonight''s events with Secretary Bai. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And thinking of his relationship with Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu rarely showed a trace of a smile on his lips¡ªit seemed that even fate was on his side.


    This tight spot, Jia Shu would have to shoulder whether he wanted to or not...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall his plans for the evening.


    Actually, after interrogating Bai Ru, Qiu Tu discovered that his situation was somewhat ill-omened.


    The reason he explained earlier was that Qin Heng now became an important partner and vassal to Yan Chen.


    If Yan Chen wanted to expand his power, he must protect him. Thus, by the time the case investigation reached this point, it was almost no longer possible to continue!


    But the problem was ... Qiu Tu already knew so many secrets, and he had locked up three of the four Qin brothers, so he and the Qin Family really had reached a point of no return ...


    Even if Qiu Tu were to give in to the Qin Family, Yan Chen might mediate ... But the problem was, there were also insurmountable issues between Qiu Tu and Yan Chen!


    Once Yan Chen discovered the things Qiu Tu had done behind his back, Qiu Tu would still be on a path to death.


    Add to that, the immense benefits that would arise from the downfall of the Qin Family ...


    So, to just give up like that, Qiu Tu really couldn''t reconcile with it!


    He couldn''t just watch Yan Chen grow stronger in Xinjie City, nor could he lose the chance to bring down the Qin Family, and he definitely couldn''t let those cooked benefits fly away.


    Therefore, after much deliberation, he decided to make a big gamble! Bringing every key player into Yan Chen''s entire lineup! Going all-in!


    Since he was now tied hand and foot and unable to see this case through, he would make a big deal with the Security Department and let them handle the case!


    Flipping the table over! No more games for anyone!


    So, he gave Qin Shuman a call and discussed a massive deal.


    The deal was huge, but the terms were simple.


    From Qiu Tu''s side, he would provide Qin Shuman with:


    A list of 33 officials from Xinjie City involved in the case, containing 1 member, 1 Director, 5 Deputy Directors, and 26 Principal and Deputy Staff;


    Unrealized real estate and land titles from Master Qin Si;


    And ... evidence of Qin Heng and the Qin Family''s collusion with United Front for their rise to power.


    What Qin Shuman and the Security Department needed to offer in return was:


    Cash equivalent to the value of Master Qin Si''s properties and land titles;


    The backbone of the Qin Family''s certain industry technology, and the rights to deal with 30 private armed personnel among the Four Major Transportation Merchants;


    And ... a legitimate captain (Principal Staff level) secret identity for the Security Department. It could be without a position, not responsible for specific job duties, but it had to have a rank.


    The terms exchanged by both parties were almost equivalent, and even with the addition of the "captain" identity, Qiu Tu was asking for a bit too much.


    But Qin Shuman and Dai Yukang were clearly individuals who handled big affairs, so after brief negotiations, they agreed right away.


    As a result, although Qiu Tu paid almost all of his "cards," he also gained even more substantial benefits than he had anticipated.


    Even ... he got the most important safeguard: the Security Department''s captain identity.


    This would allow him to execute his next "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan more boldly!


    After finalizing the benefit exchange with the Security Department, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman confirmed several key points of the whole plan today.


    1. Within the next hour, someone will use Qiu Tu''s Special Communicator to call Qin Shuman. The caller won''t speak and will hang up within a few seconds. This indicates that the plan has officially begun.


    If no call is received, then all plans will be temporarily suspended, waiting for Qiu Tu to make contact again.


    2. If the call is received, then at 17:30, Qin Shuman should send someone to the entrance of Old Alley Street and wait for a person named Ah-Kun. At that time, Ah-Kun will hand over something to her. It must be securely received.


    3. At 18:00, the Security Department will start arresting the first batch of City Hall officials implicated in the case, totaling 21 people!


    4. At 19:00, they will start arresting the second batch of City Hall officials, totaling 13 people!


    5. Starting from 19:00, they will dispatch people to guard outside the Investigation Bureau building, keeping an eye on the whereabouts of Yan Chen and Qiu Tu, ensuring both leave the Investigation Bureau building together!


    ----


    Still delivering 3 updates with 10k words! I''ll start with 2 chapters totaling 7k, and by 14:00 this afternoon, another chapter will be updated! Seek Monthly Tickets! Seek subscriptions!

 Chapter 149 - 125: The Heaven-Earth Swap Plan! (10,000 words, seeking Monthly Tickets!)

    6. At 8:20 p.m., begin the arrest of Vice President Tian!


    7. This is also the most important!


    Upon discovering that Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had left the Investigation Bureau Office Building. Immediately use the item obtained from Ah-Kun at 5:30 p.m.


    8. Arrest Commissioner Qin, seal off the Qin Family....


    At that time, the entire plan and transaction would be completely finalized!


    The reason why Qiu Tu insisted that the Security Department execute the plan according to his rhythm was also deliberate.


    Although he now had the "Security Department" as insurance and had secretly changed the lineup, he still wanted to stay in the "Investigation Bureau" as much as possible without exposing himself.


    Such an opportunity to infiltrate enemy ranks was incredibly rare. If it wasn''t for his restraint, Qiu Tu truly worried that Yan Chen might become the local tyrant of Xinjie City.


    When that time came, he would have no choice but to completely abandon his identity and flee to Eastern City.


    Therefore, he needed the Security Department to perform as best they could, to help him reduce suspicion from Yan Chen as much as possible ¡ª for instance, by creating an alibi.


    There were only two difficult parts to the entire plan.


    1. Qiu Tu had to convince Yan Chen to keep him by his side.


    This point, because Yan Chen was in a good mood today, was actually completed quite smoothly.


    2.... While under Yan Chen''s watchful eye, transfer the evidence of "Qin Heng''s crimes" given to Yan Chen elsewhere.


    This required the use of a key Cataclysmic treasure that Qiu Tu obtained from the "Salvage Game" the night before¡ªthe Seal of Ownership.


    The function of this Cataclysmic treasure is such that once it stamps an item or a living being, the holder of the stamp will have ownership rights over it for the next 72 hours.


    Within those 72 hours, if the stamp holder wishes to retrieve the stamped item or living being, it will cross space and appear directly in front of the stamp holder.


    So.... S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After explaining the plan in detail to Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu also called Ah-Kun into the interrogation room and gave him two items.


    The first item was the "Special Communicator" Qiu Tu used to contact Qin Shuman.


    It was too dangerous for Qiu Tu to carry this Communicator while staying by Yan Chen''s side.


    Besides, Ah-Kun needed to use this Communicator to contact the Security Department.


    It was a perfect solution.


    The second item was the Cataclysmic treasure, the "Seal of Ownership.


    Then, Qiu Tu laid out the tasks for Ah-Kun in detail.


    The first task was for Ah-Kun to stay close to Chen Feng at all times, and as soon as he confirmed that he had called Chen Feng, immediately communicate with the Security Department to formally start executing the plan.


    The second task was, after making the call, for Ah-Kun to leave the Investigation Bureau, and then hand over the "Seal of Ownership" to Eagle. Eagle would then stamp all the evidence of the collusion between the Qin Family and United Front with the seal.


    The third task was that after all the stamping was done, Eagle had to return the seal to Ah-Kun, who had to rush to Old Alley Street before 5:30 p.m. to hand over this Cataclysmic treasure to the meeting Security Department personnel.


    At that point, the Security Department, holding the "Seal of Ownership," could use this Cataclysmic treasure to silently retrieve the evidence once Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had left the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Since Qiu Tu would be accompanying Yan Chen the entire journey and had not touched any of those pieces of evidence, he would have the most solid alibi possible.


    And he could then unreservedly cast all the blame onto Jia Shu.


    After all, besides Qiu Tu, Jia Shu was indeed the most likely person to have had access to and the motive to steal that evidence.


    Once this entire "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan was accomplished, Qiu Tu not only could sever Yan Chen''s external support from the Qin Family, obstructing Yan Chen''s momentum; he could also sow discord between Yan Chen and Jia Shu, injecting instability into the Investigation Bureau;


    And extricate himself from the affair completely!


    It was indeed killing several birds with one stone!


    To be honest, after recalling the entire "Heaven-Earth Swap" plan, Qiu Tu felt.... if everything goes smoothly, there''s a chance he wouldn''t even need to activate the Security Department insurance for a promotion.


    After Yan Chen no longer suspects him, to appease him and counterbalance Jia Shu, Yan Chen might really offer him an official position as section chief....


    With this thought, Qiu Tu stretched lazily, feeling that it was quite exhausting to make so many plans!


    But now that everything that could be done had been done, the rest was up to time to verify!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu hummed a tune "in his heart," yet his "facial expression" was extremely solemn as he left the corridor outside the study.


    Then he looked around, east and west, casually found a maid, and under the pretense of Yan Chen''s orders, had her arrange an empty guest room for him. He temporarily settled down in Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    Tonight, the earthquakes in Xinjie City were incessant, and all kinds of ghosts and monsters had emerged!


    Qiu Tu had the "Crisis Countdown" to impending dangers in darkness, so he wouldn''t be foolish enough to go home.


    It was safer to stay at Yan Chen''s place!


    In life, one should be bold when necessary, cautious when required.


    Continuous caution was the way of the coward, and constant boldness the way of the rash ¡ª one must adapt to the situation!


    [6 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [3 days (imminent dangers in darkness)]


    ....


    Meanwhile, on the periphery of Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    A shadow was crouching on a large tree branch.


    The darkness blurred his existence, and the blue moonlight that fell upon him seemed to pass right through him as though he were transparent.


    He held an old-fashioned rifle and wore goggles, silently observing Yan Chen''s vast mansion for a while.


    In his view, the entire mansion was filled with guards and secret sentries, resembling a dragon''s den and a tiger''s lair ¡ª easy to break into, but hard to come out of.


    So... having seen Qiu Tu enter the mansion without coming out for a long time, he picked a leaf and chewed it in his mouth, murmuring, "The target is too cunning... there''s simply no chance to make a move."


    "I wonder if this will delay Old Qin''s plan..."


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Qin Family''s mansion in Xinjie City.


    Qin Heng (Old Master Qin) wore a pair of silver-white handcuffs with an iron-blue expression on his face. Accompanied by several soldiers, he boarded a prison van.


    He truly had the demeanor of a hero. Even now, trapped and helpless, he maintained a composed face, as if he had a plan up his sleeve.


    The man responsible for arresting and escorting him was a burly colonel from the Security Department, who held a rank equivalent to his, an act that served to save his face.


    And before being pushed into the van by the colonel, Qin Heng paused. He covered his mouth with a cough, then quietly asked, "Colonel Fan, might it be possible to arrange a meeting with Director Dai? I believe there may have been some misunderstanding in all this."


    Upon hearing Qin Heng''s words, Colonel Fan said with a laugh, "Commissioner Qin, of course. Don''t worry, I''ll submit your request."


    "But... as you know, Director Dai is very busy today. We didn''t just catch you; we''ve arrested dozens of mid and high-ranking officials."


    "Your case is not the highest priority here. So when he''ll meet you, I can''t guarantee."


    Qin Heng hadn''t really wanted to see Dai Yukang; he only wanted to gauge the situation''s severity through Colonel Fan''s attitude towards him.


    Though... hearing that they had caught dozens of others and his own priority wasn''t all that high sounded like his case wasn''t so serious.


    Moreover, he had heard before his arrest that the Security Department had apprehended one commissioner, one director, and five deputy directors.


    But... Qin Heng was a crafty old fox.


    He sharply sensed that the scale of this evening''s arrests went far beyond what Colonel Fan had described.


    And if Colonel Fan was lying to make him let down his guard...


    Then...


    ''It seems I must prepare for the worst.'' Thinking so, Qin Heng''s gaze deepened profoundly...


    .....


    At the same time.


    The suburban villa area on the outskirts of Longshan Road.


    Inside another villa not more than 100 meters away from the small villa of Qian Dafu and his wife.


    Wang Xi, who had the day off, and a Masked Man in Suit, both armed with pistols, brazenly sat in the middle of the villa''s hall.


    At their feet lay fresh blood, where several men were bound hand and foot, lying in puddles of blood, eyes wide open, already breathless.


    Three women, also bound but naked, were shivering and crouching at the feet of Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit.


    From their swollen eyes and the scars all over their bodies, it was clear that they had just endured brutal torment.


    After a brief exchange with the exercising Wang Xi, the Masked Man stood up, armed with a pistol, turned off all the lights in the villa, then took out a match and lit a blood-red candle carved with strange patterns!


    That candle flickered slightly in the pitch-black villa, its shadow seeming to stretch indefinitely!


    He placed the candle in the center of the living room, and, facing the three scarred women and the pools of blood, the Masked Man suddenly spread his arms wide!


    "The world thanks me!"


    "My parents are grateful to me!"


    "I guard this filthy world!"


    "I save these sinful beings!"


    "I shall realize my desires, achieve immortality, and become omnipotent!"


    As he chanted, specks of light emerged from the bodies of the dead men, from the blood on the floor, and from the wounds on the women, and with his inhales, he absorbed them all into his body!


    After inhaling all the specks of light, the Masked Man''s expression contorted as if under the influence of drugs.


    He bowed deeply to the candle.


    "''God,'' please guide your faithful!"


    With his prayer, the candlelight flickered intensely, causing the candle''s shadow to twist like a disastrous omen, frantically contorting in the dim villa!


    He seemed to pause for a moment, then cocked his head to listen...


    After a while, he turned slowly, looking out the villa window into the dark night, his gaze profound,


    "A night of chaos? A moment when order shatters?"


    "Hahaha! This is our turf!"


    With those words, the Masked Man stood up abruptly. Then he grabbed Wang Xi, who was still pushing himself against a woman, "Stop it! We''ve got work to do!"


    ------


    Still updating with three chapters of 10,000 words! Here are two chapters of 7k first, and I''ll update with another chapter before 14:00 this afternoon! I ask for Monthly Tickets! I ask for subscriptions!

 Chapter 150 - 126: Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Wang Xi, who had been indulging in pleasure, was now buried in hard work, oblivious to what the man in the mask was saying.


    So... he was somewhat baffled when he was yanked to his feet, still clutching the woman in front of him.


    As he turned his head and saw that it was the man in the mask who had pulled him up, he quickly let go of his grip.


    Then, while he was pulling up his trousers, he asked in confusion, "Boss, what happened?"


    Upon hearing Wang Xi''s question, the Suit Man looked out at the pitch-black night view and the unceasing heavy rain, and a grotesque, malevolent smile emerged from beneath the mask. "God has just shown us a new path..."


    "Tonight will be our hunting night!"


    "Hunting night?" Wang Xi''s face was full of confusion.


    The man in the mask took out a pink potion from the pocket of his suit, his face expressing madness and desire, "Yes! Hunting night!"


    "We must let ''God''s'' seeds be sown all over this sinful city, making it our ultimate hunting ground!"


    If Qiu Tu were here right now, he would recognize the potion bottle as extremely familiar because... It was identical to the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' he had used many times before!


    Wang Xi obviously also knew what the potion and ''God'' symbolized, so upon hearing the man in the mask''s words, his face suddenly became much more hesitant.


    He pondered before speaking, "Boss... maybe we should consider this more carefully."


    "This might be too dangerous for us, the Investigation Bureau..."


    "Slap!" Before he could finish, the Suit Man slapped him across the face!


    The man in the mask''s eyes were blood-red as he glared at Wang Xi fiercely, "Do not question ''God''s'' decisions!"


    "You are ''blaspheming''!"


    With that, he drew a pistol from his waist and pointed it at Wang Xi''s head, threateningly saying, "Blaspheme again, and believe me, I''ll blow your brains out!"


    Wang Xi staggered from the slap, his face quickly swelling, his eyes full of resentment.


    But when he saw the crazed look of the man in the mask, and the dark muzzle of the gun, he cowered...


    He hastily apologized, nodding repeatedly, "Yes, boss. My fault, my fault. Let''s go hunting now! Go hunting!"


    Seeing Wang Xi submit, the Suit Man seemed pleased as his expression quickly changed, giving him an approving look before patting him on the shoulder, "That''s my good companion! ''God''s'' faithful believer!"


    After speaking, he pointed the gun at the several naked women on the sofa who had just been exercising with them.


    He tilted his head, squinted his eyes, and watched them with a crazed look, "God tells us, everyone has the right to choose their own life."


    "Now, I am going to kill you. You have 10 seconds, you can choose to run, you can choose to scream, you can also choose to beg for mercy..."


    "All the choices are in your hands!"


    Upon saying this, he paused, then continued counting down with a fearsome tone, "Now, I start counting." S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "10..."


    "9..."


    "8..."


    Upon hearing the man in the mask''s words, the three naked women showed faces of terror.


    They struggled to roll off the sofa and, heedless of their nakedness, they frantically ran toward the villa''s entrance!


    "Bang! Bang!"


    Two gunshots rang out, and the two women at the front were shot in the back and collapsed to the ground. Blood spread beneath them, and with disbelieving faces, they turned back to look towards the man in the mask.


    The man in the mask laughed maniacally with a "ha ha."


    Then he walked step by step toward the last woman.


    The final woman was already petrified with fear. She had collapsed to her knees when the gun went off.


    Now, seeing the man in the mask approaching slowly with a gun in hand, tears streamed down her face as she frantically kowtowed to the man, begging him for mercy.


    But the man in the mask simply used the gun to lift her head gently, continuing to calmly count down in a soft voice, "7... 6... 5... 4..."


    Until he reached "1."


    At the sound of "Bang!" the woman''s head was blown apart by the bullet at close range, blood splattered onto her body, the floor, and the mask of the man in the mask...


    The man in the mask affectionately touched the blood on his mask, licked it clean with his tongue, then laughed softly to the slowly falling corpse, "Don''t blame me for not giving you a choice..."


    "Although every choice leads to death..."


    After finishing, he got up and laughed wildly with "ha ha."


    In the darkness, the women''s eyes remained open in death, staring maliciously at him, but he was completely oblivious!


    Tiny pinpoints of light drifted from the corpses on the floor, entering his nostrils with his breath, filling his entire body!


    After laughing, the man in the mask gradually quieted down.


    His gaze, neither joyful nor sorrowful, swept over the villa that was now blood-soaked, then he said to Wang Xi, "Let''s go... Let''s start our hunt tonight."


    Wang Xi was obviously shocked by the scene that had just unfolded; he shrank back slightly, then asked, "Where... where are we going?"


    The man in the mask thought for a moment, then chuckled lightly, "First, let''s pay a visit to... Section Chief Kong Qingchang''s house."


    He shook the pink potion bottle as he spoke, the smile on his face growing more maniacal.


    "We''re going to spread the ''glory'' of ''God''."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu, led by a maid, also arrived at Yan Chen''s vacant guest room in his villa.


    As a residence of one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants, the guest room had everything one might need; Qiu Tu didn''t have to prepare anything extra to move in¡ªa stark contrast to his rundown home.


    So, after a simple clean up, he sat on the bed, beginning to ponder over his next plan of action.


    With the assertive intervention of the Security Department, the downfall of the Qin Family should just be a matter of time.


    Therefore, all Qiu Tu had to do was survive this period of chaos, and he should be safe.


    What remained to be seen was whether his plan to pin the blame on Jia Shu would go smoothly.


    If not, he would use the channels of the Security Department to run away, starting anew in another city.


    And if he succeeded... it would mean that his recent efforts to drive a wedge between Yan Chen and Jia Shu had been effective.


    Then... he could set his next target on Jia Shu.


    Whether it was an illusion, Qiu Tu always felt that Jia Shu''s way of looking at him lately was strange.


    Combined with Jia Shu''s enigmatic satisfaction, Qiu Tu really had an ominous premonition...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu, following his daily habit, activated the "Loyalty Game" and then went to bed early, falling asleep...


    Perhaps because he had worked hard all day, he was really tired. It didn''t take long for Qiu Tu to fall into a deep sleep...


    The heavy rain continued, and the long night persisted in its madness...


    That night, too much happened...


    [5 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [2 and a half days (Dangers in the dark)]


    ...


    The next morning, as the rain stopped and the clouds dispersed.


    The sun shone down on Xinjie City, which had been soaked through by the overnight downpour, making the newly built city appear exceptionally fresh and clean.


    Possibly because he had gone to bed early last night, Qiu Tu woke up early, got out of bed, and freshened up.


    Then he casually called for the maid to prepare breakfast for him, and after eating, he went to the villa''s garden for his morning exercise.


    After running two laps and working up a sweat, Qiu Tu was just about to go back for a shower.


    But as he turned around, he saw a beautiful girl in a white dress slowly walking out from the villa, joyfully wandering in the garden.


    She was like a breath of elegant scenery that even the garden full of flowers planted by Yan Chen could not outshine.


    Qiu Tu curiously gave her a couple of glances, then called to a maid nearby and asked, "Who is that girl?"


    The maid glanced at the girl, then whispered, "That is the Bureau Chief''s daughter. She just arrived in Xinjie City last night."


    At the maid''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    The Bureau Chief''s daughter? Was that Yan Chen''s daughter?!


    Qiu Tu looked surprisedly at the elegant girl for a moment, recalling the wrinkled old face of Yan Chen.


    Then one thought rose in his mind: Yan Chen''s wife must be very beautiful, right?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly connected many other details from recent times.


    Like... how Yan Chen, despite being very busy with work and not interested in flowers, had built such a large garden at the entrance of his villa, filled with various expensive flowers.


    Like... there was no particular happy event yesterday, but Yan Chen had been cheerful from morning until night.


    Like... Secretary Bai, after reporting intelligence at about 7 pm, had disappeared without a trace.


    Like... Secretary Bai arriving at Yan Chen''s villa last night soaked on one side of his body.


    All these things Qiu Tu hadn''t paid much attention to at the time, but now, they seemed likely to be because of the girl before him, right?


    With this realization, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but make a simple judgment: It seems... Yan Chen truly dotes on his daughter a lot, doesn''t he?


    ''Maybe... this could be useful in the future?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu gave the girl another look and then turned his attention back, wiping his sweat as he returned to his guest room to shower.


    The morning passed quickly. At 8 o''clock, Qiu Tu once again hitched a ride with Yan Chen to the Investigation Bureau.


    However, unlike last night when he rode in the same car as Yan Chen, today, he was relegated to the following convoy.


    This seemed to foreshadow a change in his status in Yan Chen''s heart.


    But... Qiu Tu didn''t care, because he knew that didn''t mean much: his most crucial test¡ªthe one with Jia Shu¡ªhad not yet come.


    Last night, Qiu Tu''s communicator was never put on silent, just left by his bedside.


    He had anticipated that Jia Shu would certainly call to inquire about the whole affair. But unexpectedly, Jia Shu really had the patience to not contact him the entire night.


    But that did not mean the situation had passed, on the contrary, it heralded an even greater storm.


    Therefore, what was most important for Qiu Tu now was to figure out the current state of affairs.


    And what Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and the senior members of the Investigation Bureau thought about the events that had transpired yesterday!


    Whether in espionage or regular warfare, intelligence is the key of keys.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu got out of the car and followed Yan Chen into the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Yan Chen took the elevator, and of course, Qiu Tu couldn''t follow. So he watched Yan Chen ascend with a sullen face and then took the next elevator to the Political Department.


    He reached the 9th floor and had just stepped out of the elevator when a familiar figure approached: Eagle.


    Eagle passed by as if it were just a coincidence, nodding at Qiu Tu and then brushing past him.


    But... in the fleeting moment their bodies came into contact, unseen by others, he stealthily slipped a wad of paper into Qiu Tu''s pocket...


    ------


    I''ve only slept for two hours today, and I''m completely unable to fall back asleep. Then my head has been dizzy, luckily I had a detailed outline, or I might not have been able to write at all.


    Then after lunch, I went to the clinic for a checkup. The doctor gave me a few injections, prescribed some medicine, and told me I couldn''t stay up late like this anymore.


    So, I might slightly adjust my schedule while ensuring the manuscript reaches ten thousand words, such as updating one chapter in the evening, and after waking up the next day, updating two chapters in the late afternoon.


    I''ll see how I feel after writing tonight. I''m going to get some sleep now.

 Chapter 151 - 127: Kneel Down, Liu Fuping (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Feeling the Eagle''s movement, Qiu Tu was slightly taken aback.


    Because... this wasn''t his arrangement; he wouldn''t have the Eagle pass him a message at such a sensitive time.


    However, compared to Ah-Tai''s reckless affection, the Eagle and Ah-Kun were always more steady in their work.


    Therefore... Qiu Tu believed there must be some important intelligence that the Eagle needed to convey to him, which is why at such a sensitive time, he played this hand.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nonchalantly brushed past the Eagle.


    As their figures crossed, when he looked back again, one was already in the elevator, and the other had walked to the corner of the corridor.


    Watching the Eagle take the elevator slowly down, Qiu Tu went to the Investigation Bureau''s temporary office as if nothing had happened.


    Since today was the weekend and yesterday''s tasks had all been completed, the office of the investigation team was empty.


    Qiu Tu entered the office, locked the door behind him, went to the window, opened it, and then took out the wad of paper the Eagle had given him.


    He smoothed out the wrinkled paper and what met Qiu Tu''s eyes was the Eagle''s untidy scrawl.


    In the wasteland after the Cataclysm, being able to read and write was an extraordinary skill for the common people at the bottom of society ¡ª clearly, the Eagle didn''t possess it.


    Thus, the letter was obviously copied or transcribed from someone else.


    And... that person had to be someone the Eagle knew and trusted; otherwise, he wouldn''t take such a big risk to pass it on to Qiu Tu.


    In that instant, the image of a person appeared in Qiu Tu''s mind: Secretary Bai.


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai wasn''t a secret among the small group of Qiu Tu, Ah-Tai, and the Eagle.


    After all, when Qiu Tu had brought the severely injured Secretary Bai home and taken care of him for so long, both the Eagle and Ah-Tai had seen him.


    Later, when Secretary Bai had recruited Qiu Tu into the Investigation Bureau, bringing everyone up with him, which brother didn''t praise Secretary Bai while drinking?


    Like other people who might pass information to Qiu Tu, such as Qin Shuman and Tang Feifei, the Eagle didn''t know them and certainly wouldn''t easily trust their identities to pass on intelligence for them.


    Having cleared up the identity of the letter writer, Qiu Tu then began to read the letter seriously from start to finish.


    After reading the letter, a smile couldn''t help but appear on Qiu Tu''s face.


    He had guessed right; the letter was indeed written by Secretary Bai.


    The reason was that Secretary Bai knew Qiu Tu would want to be aware of the movements of the Investigation Bureau''s higher-ups and Yan Chen''s attitude towards the whole incident yesterday.


    That''s why he wrote this letter, taking a risk after meeting with Yan Chen, and came to Old Alley Street in the middle of the night to find the Eagle, asking him to forward it to Qiu Tu.


    And to ensure that his identity wasn''t revealed, he had also instructed the Eagle to transcribe the letter before passing it on.


    Looking through the entire letter with its scribbles and distorted handwriting, one could imagine how desperate the Eagle, who was illiterate, must have felt receiving this task late at night...


    Even... because he couldn''t read, he transcribed many words incorrectly. Fortunately, the rough strokes were still there, so Qiu Tu, by guessing and inferring, also managed to understand the contents of Secretary Bai''s letter.


    According to what Secretary Bai said in the letter.


    Last night, after Qiu Tu left, Yan Chen had a small meeting with him and Ji Chen.


    In the meeting, Yan Chen went into detail about everything that had happened yesterday, emphasized the theft of the safe and the Qin Family being taken down by the Security Department, then asked for their opinions and suspicions.


    Ji Chen was the first to suspect Qiu Tu.


    After all, there were many peculiarities in Qiu Tu''s actions throughout the whole incident.


    Even if all those peculiarities had reasonable explanations from Qiu Tu... Ji Chen still felt that too many coincidences happening to one person definitely couldn''t be coincidental.


    But faced with Ji Chen''s questioning, Yan Chen didn''t agree.


    He even refuted Ji Chen''s views directly without waiting for Secretary Bai to speak.


    In the letter, Secretary Bai vividly described the scene at the time.


    Back then, Yan Chen sat in the executive chair, the dim light casting shadows over him as he smoked, frowning deeply while explaining to Ji Chen... S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "There are a few reasons why I don''t suspect Qiu Tu," he said.


    "First, the safe is placed in the rest area of my office. When storing the evidence, I did not allow Qiu Tu to follow me inside."


    "Instead, I had Secretary Bai and him wait outside."


    "Therefore, he had no idea where I placed the evidence, nor did he know the combination to the safe."


    "So, he was unable to steal the evidence I stored."


    "Second, even if he had a ''Cataclysmic treasure'' that could move items without needing location data,"


    "But... since yesterday noon, he has been by my side the whole time, hardly ever leaving my sight, nor interacting with anyone else."


    "... He simply had no time to carry out the crime."


    "If we assume it was a group crime, then... the whole case becomes extremely complicated. Because anyone could avoid suspicion through the method of group crime."


    "And even if we suppose he did commit the crime as part of a group, it doesn''t add up."


    "Because... he has no motive."


    Speaking of this, Yan Chen narrowed his eyes, casually tapped in the air with the hand holding his cigarette, and said seriously, "Aside from random crimes, all criminals need a motive."


    "Qiu Tu is someone I personally promoted. I''ve been quite fair to him, and his position is low, with plenty of room to rise."


    "Following me, his advancement shouldn''t be an issue."

 Chapter 152 - 127: Kneel Down, Liu Fuping (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "And just before the evidence was stolen, he had been indirectly expressing his achievements to me, seeking a promotion in rank!"


    "And I... Although I didn''t give him a clear reply, I also implied that I would consider it carefully. He should understand what I mean!"


    At this point, Yan Chen said with a serious face, "So, under these circumstances, how high a price would the Security Department have to offer to buy him off?"


    "Captain?"


    "The Qin Family''s assets?"


    "Money?"


    Yan Chen shook his head, "Not to mention that the Security Department wouldn''t offer these conditions, even if they did... it would only be a one-off deal. It''s far less promising than working well for me, with a bright future ahead."


    "So, unless there is some irreconcilable conflict between him and me, there''s no way he would betray me."


    Having said this, Yan Chen crushed his cigarette butt in the ashtray and summarised, "Moreover, I had suspected him before. It turned out that I was wrong and it delayed many things because of it."


    "This time, I don''t want to make the same mistake again."


    "So, let''s talk about other suspects... Do you think Jia Shu could be one?"


    The rest of the letter continued with the three people''s speculations about Jia Shu''s identity.


    Overall, it was: highly suspicious!


    Clearly, after several of Qiu Tu''s leads and efforts to drive a wedge, Yan Chen had become deeply suspicious of his right-hand man...


    Having read the entire letter, Qiu Tu also had some guesses about why Secretary Bai had written to him.


    Secretary Bai actually didn''t know the role Qiu Tu played in the whole affair, nor did he know the truth.


    Most likely, he had seen Qiu Tu leave "dispirited" after being reprimanded by Yan Chen last night.


    Worried that Qiu Tu might have a burden on his mind or be scared, he took a risk in disclosing the content of the meeting to Qiu Tu ¡ª wanting to use Yan Chen''s affirmation to ease Qiu Tu''s inner anxiety.


    His purpose in doing this was similar to last time when he leaked information to Qiu Tu during "Yin Caimei''s death."


    He indeed was a confidant of Yan Chen, but... he also remembered the life-saving grace Qiu Tu had extended to him. So, without going against his conscience, he was willing to give Qiu Tu a bit more help.


    What he didn''t know, however, was that he got it wrong both times...


    Last time it wasn''t Qiu Tu who killed Yin Caimei, but he suspected it was Qiu Tu and secretly tipped him off.


    As a result, this time the evidence was tampered with by Qiu Tu, he thought it wasn''t Qiu Tu, yet still secretly tipped him off...


    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu found Old Bai to be quite interesting, always operating in reverse.


    Regardless of his motivations, however, the effect on Qiu Tu was the same.


    At the very least, Qiu Tu had a clear understanding of Yan Chen''s attitude towards him ¡ª despite disliking him, he did not suspect him.


    ''In that case... I have quite a bit more room to maneuver.''


    "This is good news."


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu took out a match and slowly burned the letter in his hand...


    "Knock, knock, knock."


    Just as Qiu Tu blew the ashes out the window, the door to his office was suddenly knocked on gently from the outside.


    Hearing the knock, Qiu Tu nonchalantly closed the window, then walked over to the office door and opened it.


    The office door opened, and the beautiful Liu Fuping was standing charmingly at the door.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, a smile that read ''just as I thought'' spread across her face, then she innocently asked, "Officer, have you... seen something of mine that I left in the office?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu didn''t think much of it. He hesitated for a moment before asking, "What thing?"


    Liu Fuping didn''t answer, instead, she smiled and walked into the office. She rummaged through Qiu Tu''s desk and finally took out a... black stocking from the drawer.


    "Found it!" Holding the stocking, Liu Fuping''s face showed delight. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But then she looked at Qiu Tu with a puzzled expression and inquired, "However, it''s so strange... How did my stocking end up in your drawer, Officer?"


    As she spoke, she blinked her seductive, peach blossom eyes and drawled, "Could it be... did you deliberately hide it, Chief?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping feign ignorance and listening to her provocative words, Qiu Tu confirmed that the beautiful young woman in front of him was playing a very novel game...


    After all, when opportunity knocks, it''s foolish not to take it.


    So, as he closed the door, he looked at Liu Fuping, his eyebrows slightly raised, "Indeed. Why would your stockings be in my drawer?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pretended to ponder for a moment, then tested her with a counter-question, "Could it be... that you deliberately placed them in my drawer?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping burst into giggles.


    Her peach blossom eyes narrowed as she laughed and looked at Qiu Tu, seductively asking, "So, do you think... I did it on purpose, putting them in your drawer?"


    Qiu Tu found it amusing. He took steps closer to Liu Fuping, tugging the conversation again, "So you did... did you?"


    Liu Fuping didn''t answer. She sat on Qiu Tu''s desk, lifting her left leg, her round and smooth foot raised in front of him. And then... she slipped the rolled-up stockings onto her left foot, gradually pulling them up.


    "Hiss!" Qiu Tu swore, he really didn''t have certain fetishes in his past life.


    But... seeing Liu Fuping''s tempting appearance today, it seemed his tastes really did undergo a slight change.


    So... he reached out and grabbed Liu Fuping''s foot directly, then slowly caressed up along those slender legs bit by bit.


    The stockings felt silky, not much different from what he remembered.


    Liu Fuping''s body stiffened for a moment, possibly not expecting Qiu Tu to be so bold. Following his slow caresses, shivers ran through her body, and her waist went weak.


    But a married woman is still a married woman, not as shy as a young girl.


    So with a light blush and giggles, she caught Qiu Tu''s hand that was about to touch the top of her thigh, and said, "Chief, that area is off-limits... To enter there, there''s a separate price."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu didn''t force the issue. His hand stopped, and he looked at Liu Fuping with a smile, inquiring, "What''s the price?"


    Liu Fuping breathed out softly, "Talk about what you did yesterday?"


    Her eyes lifted slightly, a pair of peach blossom eyes shining with a soft light and exceptionally charming, "Your actions yesterday were quite impressive."


    "It feels like you had the whole Xinjie City in the palm of your hand."


    "If I hadn''t known some of your plans in advance, I might have been deceived by you too."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand that was on her leg, and with her other hand, she hooked his chin, saying coyly, "So... Chief, how did you do it?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu released his hand, stepped back two paces, and leaned on another desk, looking at Liu Fuping with a smile, "I knew you were seducing me for a reason."


    "Spill it... Who are you representing this time?"


    "Director Tang? Or someone from Eastern City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping hopped off the desk, giggling.


    Then, as she closed in and embraced Qiu Tu, she said, "Both."


    "Both Director Tang and Director Liu have nothing but praises for your actions yesterday."


    "Especially Director Tang..."


    "She gave me quite a torment last night."


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping acted as if she was clutching at her heart, "It all got so sore."


    Watching Liu Fuping''s behavior, which seemed like complaining but was actually more of a seduction, Qiu Tu''s gaze suddenly grew dark and inscrutable...


    He smiled as he looked at the beautiful young woman before him, then asked, "Are you sure you want to know what I did yesterday?"


    Liu Fuping''s eyes brightened slightly, her smile at the corners of her eyes spoke volumes without words.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reached out, pulled her to him, and while gazing into her eyes, he said, "Then... kneel."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s eyes widened in disbelief as she looked at him.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    This is a three-update combo of ten thousand words, I''m posting two updates of 7k now. The third update will be out before 19:00. I''m off to sleep. Ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 153 - 128: Liu Fuping Got Scammed (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her an opportunity to think or resist.


    He reached out and pressed his hand on Liu Fuping''s head, then slowly but firmly pushed down.


    This time, Liu Fuping was clearly panicking.


    She hurriedly said, "Wait a minute, Qiu Tu. Just wait."


    As she spoke, she tried to retreat, but Qiu Tu, as if he had prepared for every possibility, wrapped his arm around her waist, immobilizing her.


    This time, Liu Fuping again felt the iron-like strength of Qiu Tu.


    She tried desperately to break free but was utterly unable to move.


    In the end, she was forced into the humiliating position of kneeling on the ground to prevent Qiu Tu from breaking her neck.


    However, it seemed like Qiu Tu was only interested in humiliating her because after he had forced her to her knees, he let go of both hands, simply leaning on the desk with half of his backside, flaunting Yue Kua in front of Liu Fuping as if to give her a final choice.


    Today, Liu Fuping was indeed dressed very attractively with a form-fitting uniform and skirt, paired with half a pair of stockings.


    One leg sheathed in black silk, the other bare, she knelt before Qiu Tu in a way that easily incited a desire to conquer.


    Qiu Tu looked at her impassively, waiting for her final decision.


    Liu Fuping bit her lips fiercely, her eyes full of humiliation as she glared at Qiu Tu.


    Although she was a spy, she was not the kind who traded her body for intelligence.


    Even if she had something with Tang Feifei, it was because she truly had feelings for Tang Feifei.


    But now, kneeling on the ground with Qiu Tu pressing down on her, she felt like her dignity was being crushed underfoot.


    Looking up at the indifferent face of Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping took several deep breaths as if intending to turn and leave.


    But... just as she lifted her foot to step away, for some reason, she suddenly felt an impulse to let everything crash and burn.


    She closed her eyes, yanked open Qiu Tu''s zipper, then... leaned in.


    Even though he felt that warm, smooth comfort, there was no change in Qiu Tu''s expression.


    The scene was remarkably suggestive and amorous, yet the atmosphere was very heavy and oppressive.


    And so, after about ten minutes. Accompanied by a stifled grunt from Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping collapsed to the ground, coughing nonstop.


    After coughing, she wiped the corner of her mouth and looked up at Qiu Tu with humiliation, saying indifferently, "Intelligence!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s expression had softened quite a bit.


    As he zipped up his trousers, he asked curiously, "Intelligence? What intelligence?"


    Liu Fuping''s eyes widened, "The intelligence of all your actions yesterday!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu wore a look of utter confusion, "What actions?"


    "I was with Director Yan all night yesterday, I didn''t do anything."


    "You!" Liu Fuping was livid!


    She abruptly stood up, her face not knowing whether it was choked, angry, or flushed with embarrassment, but it was definitely red!


    She glared at Qiu Tu, "You, you, you liar! After all I did, you...."


    When she spoke, Qiu Tu innocently replied, "After all you did? But... wasn''t this a mutual affection, a willing act between us?"


    As he said this, he gave Liu Fuping a look of feigned surprise, turning the accusation back on her, "Sister Liu, could it be that your intentions towards me aren''t pure? That you didn''t do that out of fondness?"


    Liu Fuping: .....


    "Drop dead!"


    Enraged, Liu Fuping snatched up the documents from the desk and flung them at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu dodged with a laugh and then slipped out the door.


    But before fleeing, he didn''t forget to look back and compliment her, "Thank you for your help today, Sister Liu."


    "I owe you one! I''ll repay you at your place another day!"


    "Drop dead! Drop dead!" Hearing this, Liu Fuping became even more infuriated, wishing she could take off her high-heels and nail Qiu Tu with them!


    However, after Qiu Tu had disappeared and she had calmed down, Liu Fuping''s mouth curved into a faint smile for no apparent reason.


    It seems like... she had been taken advantage of. But Qiu Tu hadn''t really treated her as a woman who would trade her body for intelligence, and was that strangely pleasing to her?


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping was stunned for a moment, then as if suddenly realizing something, she opened her mouth and took a breath, "Eek... so fishy. Ugh...."


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Having finished his affair with Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu wandered for a short while before finding an empty conference room.


    He looked around to see if anyone had noticed, and after confirming no one had, went into the vacant conference room.


    Closing the door behind him, Qiu Tu walked over to the window, took out his communicator, and dialed Qin Shuman.


    Before the call connected, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but also think back to what had just happened with Liu Fuping.


    In truth, he hadn''t employed any schemes just now. He simply wanted to teach Liu Fuping a "lesson," that was all.


    This beautiful young woman, recently taking advantage of her good relationship with him, went behind his back to secretly look for case files, and today she dared to seduce him, trying to withdraw intelligence.


    If we don''t discipline them now, they''ll eventually become unbearable.


    That''s why Qiu Tu had suggested those actions, half pressuring and half implying.


    I must say... it was quite satisfying.


    That move wasn''t a loss.


    As he thought this, the phone connected.


    Possibly because Qiu Tu had exerted himself a bit earlier, as soon as the call connected, Qin Shuman curiously asked, "Qiu Tu, you sound a bit tired. Did you not rest well last night?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quickly coughed twice, "It''s nothing... just that the cases these past few days have been a bit troublesome, consuming quite a bit of energy, that''s all."


    After saying this, he quickly changed the subject, discussing the matter at hand, "By the way, how''s the investigation of the case going?"


    "What''s the current progress?"


    When Qiu Tu asked, Qin Shuman''s expression also became serious.


    At this moment, she stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window in her office, her green military uniform particularly striking.


    She spoke softly, "The case is progressing smoothly. After all, the mid-to-high-level people we''ve captured aren''t real spies; most of them haven''t been trained, so they''re relatively easy to deal with."


    "Plus, with the various pieces of evidence you provided, a little interrogation was all it took to get confessions out of them." S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The only troublesome one is Commissioner Qin Heng."


    "He''s the main culprit and has some resistance to interrogation. He answered all the questions we posed and all the evidence we presented."


    "Although some answers were far-fetched and he shifted the blame onto others, it... indeed makes it difficult to come to a definitive conclusion."


    "And because of his status as a commissioner, we can''t use the Interrogation Type Cataclysmic treasures."


    "So, we''re also troubled about how to break through his defenses."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze revealed a hint of contemplation...


    It seems Old Master Qin is indeed tough to deal with...


    Is there another way to target him specifically?


    While Qiu Tu thought this, Qin Shuman had already moved on to a different topic, saying, "Qiu Tu, don''t worry about us here."


    "I will make sure to urge the interrogation department to solve the case quickly and bring this case to an end as soon as possible."


    "But you need to be careful yourself."


    "Although we have already attracted most of the attention, there''s no guarantee that other forces haven''t remembered you as the instigator and might act against you."


    "And..." As she said this, Qin Shuman paused, then continued, "Now, the situation in Xinjie City is chaotic, with major cases emerging one after another."


    "Last night, a wealthy family was massacred."


    "Not only did he and several bodyguards die, but even his wife and two daughters were violated one after the other and brutally killed."


    "The scene was not only extremely bloody but also showed traces of Catastrophe Power and Cataclysmic Creatures."


    When Qiu Tu heard Qin Shuman''s words, he was stunned, then the images of Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit emerged in his mind...


    These past few days.


    He had the Loyalty Game running every night.


    Similar to the previous days, he chose Wang Xi vs. Ah-Kun and Wang Xi vs. Ah-Tai for the "combat game" selections!


    As for the "Salvage Game," since it could only use subordinates with Loyalty over 90,


    Qiu Tu only had Ah-Xiong and Ah-Kun available for salvage.


    In these four games, subordinates on Qiu Tu''s side achieved a record of three wins and one loss.


    The only loss was the fight between Ah-Kun and Wang Xi.


    Wang Xi seemed to be evolving all the time. His weapon for fighting had shifted from the initial syringe to a brick, then from a brick to a kitchen knife... and this time, it turned directly into a handgun!


    Ah-Kun, unarmed, was naturally no match for Wang Xi with a handgun and was promptly dealt with.


    Helpless, the next evening Qiu Tu could only send out his strongest man: Ah-Tai, hoping to see if Ah-Tai could subdue Wang Xi with the handgun.


    But... Wang Xi''s condition last night was anyone''s guess.


    Even though he was armed with a handgun, he looked utterly listless, so after Ah-Tai took two bullets, he managed to win the game with a cauldron-sized fist, battering Wang Xi until his face was swollen and bruised!


    That also brought another small segment of Wang Xi''s Memory Fragment to light.


    Recorded in the Memory Fragment... was Wang Xi violating women in a villa, the Masked Man in Suit counting down from ten before brutally killing the three women and praying to "God."


    After watching that Memory Fragment, Qiu Tu immediately felt sick to the core.


    He wished he could immediately capture Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit and execute them with a single shot!


    Unexpectedly, today Qin Shuman brought up this very case.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but also recall Old Master Qin trading for Immortality with "God"...


    So, he hesitated for a moment, then tentatively asked, "Shuman, may I ask you something? Does ''God'' exist in this world?"


    ------


    It''s still three updates of 10,000 words haha, with the first two updates of 7k. The third update will be posted before 19:00. I''m off to sleep. Vote for the Monthly Ticket! Subscribe!

 Chapter 154 - 129 What is

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s sudden inquiry, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but become serious.


    Standing by the French window with her arms crossed, she then solemnly said, "Qiu Tu... I must tell you: there are no ''gods'' in this world."


    "All those who claim to be ''gods'' are merely elusive charlatans trying to play god."


    "They usually fear the light. That''s why they deceive the people with deities and faith."


    Possibly fearing that Qiu Tu would stray onto the wrong path, Qin Shuman thought carefully for a moment before expanding on her explanation.


    She said, "Now... after all, it is the post-Cataclysm era, and the entire world''s Order is very chaotic. Moreover, the matter of Catastrophe Power hasn''t been publicized to the masses."


    "This leads to some powerful Cataclysmics or Cataclysmic Creatures exploiting the information gap to masquerade as deities, attracting followers, and harvesting their faith."


    "The former is less troubling since they are still part of humanity, merely Degenerating for vanity, wealth, or beauty."


    "Although we must crack down hard on such behavior, the actual harm isn''t considered serious."


    "But the latter is extremely frightening...."


    "It means that the Cataclysmic Creature is likely a higher-order being, very powerful, and possesses intelligence similar to humans."


    "Only then could it seek to grow stronger by attracting believers in the material world and spreading its power, in hopes of descending upon the material world."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then asked in surprise, "So, by spreading its power, a Cataclysmic Creature can descend upon the material world?"


    Qin Shuman, hearing this, solemnly said, "Yes."


    She gazed at her reflection in the French window and slowly explained, "The idea that the spirit can influence reality, though often recorded by scholars and authors, has never been verified and has thus remained a legend throughout history."


    "However... ever since the material world went through that great Cataclysm, and the non-material world was born, everything has changed."


    "The non-material world is an ocean of spirit, where the spirit of all living beings can play a significant role."


    "The purer and more extreme the desires of a being, the more it can provoke changes there."


    "Therefore, when a large number of beings devoutly believe in a certain Cataclysmic Creature and pray for its descent into the real world... then that force can penetrate the world''s barrier, summoning the Cataclysmic Creature known as ''god'' to descend!"


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman provided an example, "Take, for instance, the Cataclysmic Creature born from ''Brave New World'' that once devastated six or seven cities under the jurisdiction of the Third Sanctuary."


    "It too had once descended upon the real world due to its multitude of followers."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu grew serious. He couldn''t help thinking of what Wang Xi and the Masked Man in Suit had done: sacrifices, spreading the "glory of god"...


    Looking at it this way, they too must be attempting to summon ''god'' to descend, right?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu hesitated a bit: then... the ''god'' that Old Master Qin made a deal with, it should differ from their ''god'', shouldn''t it?


    He was a bit puzzled: don''t these Cataclysmic Creatures have their own territories? Would two ''gods'' set their sights on Xinjie City at the same time?


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu wanted to continue discussing the matter of ''god'' descending with Qin Shuman.


    But... perhaps the topic of ''god'' was just too sensitive. After giving Qiu Tu a brief explanation, Qin Shuman laughed and switched the subject, "Let''s not talk about that for now."


    "By the way, why did you use your own communicator to call me? Aren''t you afraid of being discovered by Yan Chen and the others?"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu slowly came back to himself and explained with a smile, "I''m not afraid. In fact... I hope they find out."


    Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment upon hearing this, then some realization dawned on her, "That''s true. We in the Security Department have tricked you and even hijacked your case. If you didn''t call to question us, it would indeed be more suspicious!"


    Continuing, she said, "But... in that case, you should have called me last night, right? Isn''t it too late to call today?"


    At Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu immediately laughed and retorted, "How do you know I didn''t call?"


    Qin Shuman uttered an "Ah?" of surprise, looking confused.


    Qiu Tu said, "I just didn''t call you, that''s all."


    He paused for a moment, "I tried calling Lin Zuo all through the night."


    Qin Shuman didn''t understand, "Why?"


    The voice of Qiu Tu was gentle and magnetic, "Because I was afraid of disturbing your sleep. You had such a hard day yesterday, I didn''t have the heart to bother you....


    Qin Shuman was caught off guard by Qiu Tu''s abrupt expression of care and intimacy, despite they had been discussing serious matters, and her face flushed red.


    She bit her lip and chuckled secretly, "You must be more tired than me... get some rest...."


    Meanwhile, Lin Zuo, who had been standing in front of Qin Shuman''s desk reporting his work but found himself interrupted, was sporting dark circles under his eyes and wore a speechless expression as he watched the two speak on the phone.


    ''A pair of lunatics! Not willing to wake the chief, but ok with waking me up?!''


    ''One call after another! Had me hang up when they got through, to make another call!''


    ''Insisting this matched the Security Department''s attitude towards him!''


    ''Treating me like a machine for amusement!''


    ''I need rest too, alright!''


    And so, Lin Zuo silently vented his frustration at Qiu Tu''s inconsiderateness in his mind.


    Lin Zuo had been waiting until Qin Shuman hung up the phone with a beaming smile on her face before he slowly began to speak.


    With a stoic look, he glanced at Qin Shuman and asked with his signature indifferent tone, "It seems that both the division chief and the department head hold Qiu Tu in high regard?"


    He was one of only three people who knew about Qiu Tu''s deal with the Security Bureau.


    So, after pausing for a moment, he continued, "They even agreed to his excessive demands. They even granted him the rank of captain."


    He left unsaid the fact that he himself was only a lieutenant. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qin Shuman, who had been in a good mood from that phone call, paused mid-action.


    She put down the communicator heavily on the table and looked at Lin Zuo with a stern face, "Lin Zuo, don''t let jealousy cloud your judgment! Have you forgotten your Cataclysm Path?! This is a grave taboo!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Zuo shuddered and quickly responded, "Yes!"


    Lin Zuo wasn''t naturally prone to envy, so after the reminder, Qin Shuman didn''t press the issue further but instead sat down in a chair and reminisced, "Although I... hm, have a rather good relationship with Qiu Tu."


    "The conditions he proposed yesterday, however, did startle me," she admitted.


    "But when I reported them to the department head, he hardly hesitated before agreeing."


    As she said this, Qin Shuman sat down and, picking up a pen from the table, twirled it in her fingers and added, "At the time, I was a bit puzzled as well, just like you. But then the department head enlightened me."


    "He said that a person like Qiu Tu, who is resourceful, wise, knows how to strategize and balance interests, is exactly the kind of talent that all three major power institutions are vying for."


    "Even if we didn''t give Qiu Tu that rank, Yan Chen would soon grant it to him anyway, and his future would be boundless."


    "We''ve only expended an honorary captaincy to bring such a talent into the military fold, which is a gain for us," she commented.


    Qin Shuman paused, then remarked, "So¡­ the department head is looking at the future, not just the present."


    "After all... if a mere deputy division chief can cause such a stir in Xinjie City, imagine the enormous impact he could have once he truly climbs the ladder."


    "Some people are born to be the main character on the stage."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Lin Zuo nodded thoughtfully.


    After finishing his call with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu stood by the office window, deep in thought.


    Wang Xi and the man in the suit with the mask were definitely up to some strange things in Xinjie City.


    From the information Qin Shuman disclosed, they seemed to be the followers or believers of a powerful Cataclysmic Creature, earnestly spreading that creature''s power.


    As for the benefits of doing this, although Qin Shuman did not specify, the information gleaned from Wang Xi''s memory fragments suggested that becoming a ''God''s'' disciple likely bestows some unique Catastrophe Power.


    This Catastrophe Power probably didn''t have as low a success rate as the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion and possessed all sorts of bizarre abilities!


    This thought led Qiu Tu to think of Old Master Qin, who had "immortality."


    If Qiu Tu''s guess was right, Old Master Qin was likely not so much making a deal with a ''God'' as becoming a ''God''s'' disciple, which is how he obtained the chance for ''immortality.''


    He had just framed it to people like Director Bai as a deal with a ''God'' to beautify his own actions.


    If so... then he must have done some far-fetched things to spread the ''God''s'' power as well, right?


    Yet... considering all the evidence exposed by the Qin Family thus far, apart from collusion with the United Front, nothing else seems amiss, does it?


    ''Is there something being overlooked?'' Qiu Tu wondered, furrowing his brows slightly.


    Just as Qiu Tu was at his wit''s end, suddenly, "knock, knock, knock..." the door of the vacant conference room was gently rapped from the outside.


    Qiu Tu turned around, only to see Liu Fuping pushing the door open and walking in.


    After entering, Liu Fuping complained to Qiu Tu without hiding her annoyance, "What are you, a rabbit? Always burrowing around. You just find an empty conference room and hide away in it."


    "I spent ages looking for you."


    At her words, Qiu Tu, leaning against the window with arms crossed, teased, "Doesn''t Sister Liu know whether I like to burrow around or not?"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell on Liu Fuping''s luscious red lips.


    Liu Fuping''s cheeks flushed red "swoosh" in an instant.


    At that moment, she seemed to recall once again the taste of Qiu Tu from not long ago...


    She glared seductively at Qiu Tu before saying, "Stop talking nonsense. I''m here to discuss important matters with you."


    "The Minister wants to see you."


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu froze for a moment, then his body involuntarily tensed up gradually.


    As expected... what was bound to come had arrived...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

 Chapter 157 - 131: Jia Shus Suspicion Maxed Out (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    But he had always thought Jia Shu''s "attack" would be about yesterday''s affairs.


    To his surprise, Jia Shu completely deviated from the expected script, first using a [Joint Investigation Application] to divert his attention. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then, while he was distracted, he directly probed him with a list of spies to test his response.


    Luckily, Qiu Tu''s acting skills had reached a masterful level by then.


    So, facing Jia Shu''s probe, Qiu Tu feigned ignorance and threw the question back, "But why is the minister asking me this question?"


    "I''m from the Interrogation Section, after all...."


    Most people who are bad at lying tend to make a fatal mistake: God''s Perspective.


    With "God''s Perspective," they fail to see the traps in the other person''s questions when lying.


    Like the question Jai Shu just asked, he seemed to be seeking Qiu Tu''s opinion.


    But in reality, he was testing Qiu Tu''s[level of knowledge about the spy list leak].


    Because... theoretically, the spy list had nothing to do with Qiu Tu, not even half a Copper Yuan!


    As a member of the Interrogation Section who had never dealt with spies and had just joined the Political Department, completely unaware of the details of each department, how could he possibly analyze the killer or provide Jia Shu with advice?


    Therefore, had Qiu Tu wildly guessed or analyzed the spy leak himself, it would have exposed him. Countering with a question or not answering was actually the correct response.


    However, Jia Shu was obviously not an ordinary person. After hearing Qiu Tu''s response, he smiled and, adjusting his gold-framed glasses, continued, "But... that colonel from the military told me that you provided them with the list."


    At this point, Jia Shu pointed his index finger at Qiu Tu, saying with a snide smile, "He told me that you collaborated with the Security Department''s Investigation Department to cover your tracks, forcing them to deploy personnel to shield you. This led to the exposure of most of the military''s spies."


    "This has also led to severe criticism of the Investigation Department within the Security Department."


    "So, to mend the fold after the sheep have been lost, and to prevent these spies from being caught in one fell swoop, you took great pains to compile this spy list and handed it over to the Investigation Department, hoping they would redeem themselves by taking the blame."


    At this, Jia Shu''s smile turned colder as his eyes twinkled with a frosty glint, "Please tell me... how do you explain this?"


    It must be said, Jia Shu''s speculations and probes were indeed very intimidating.


    At least in that moment, Qiu Tu himself believed it!


    But the problem was... Qiu Tu wasn''t fighting alone. He had his "cheat."


    Betraying the Investigation Bureau and giving the Bureau''s spy list to the military would be grounds for a "secret execution" in any city.


    But the problem was... Qiu Tu''s Crisis Countdown clock didn''t start ticking!


    In the upper left corner, there were only those two hourglasses counting down.


    One was the [Yin Caimei case deadline] with 5 and a half days remaining, and the other was the [Danger in the Dark] with only 2 and a half days left.


    So... just by that, Qiu Tu knew Jia Shu was bluffing him!


    While he felt completely calm inside, he also had time to spot more flaws in Jia Shu''s words.


    The most important thing to determining if a statement is a lie is the number of details it contains.


    The more details there are, the easier it is to slip up, so instinctively, people reduce details when lying.


    Although Jia Shu had boldly used "Investigation Department" as a detail to intimidate Qiu Tu, if the colonel had already revealed the source of the intelligence to Jia Shu, there would have been no need to deliberately conceal who Qiu Tu''s "contact" was.


    Even without naming names, he could have used "Head of the Investigation Department" as a reference.


    But Jia Shu didn''t mention the Head of the Investigation Department or "Rain Butterfly," proving that he guessed Qiu Tu was likely working with the Investigation Department, but didn''t actually know who it was. Hence, the vague description.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu grew even more certain that Jia Shu was bluffing him!


    So he pretended to be astonished and enraged, bursting out, "Minister, someone is spreading rumors!"


    "How have I collaborated with the Security Department''s Investigation Department?"


    "All my contacts with the Security Department were authorized by you!"


    "And besides... how could I, a mere Deputy Staff Leader, possibly know the spy list?"


    "If I don''t know the spy list, how could I have given it to the Security Department?"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s flurry of questions, Jia Shu carefully studied Qiu Tu''s facial expressions. After not noticing any discrepancies, he rarely furrowed his brows....


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu refused to let it go, "Minister! You must stand up for me in this matter!"


    "If this accusation sticks, I can forget about promotion and raises, and I''ll never be able to hold my head high in the Security Department or the Investigation Bureau again!"


    "So, tell me which colonel has been talking nonsense! I want to report them up the chain!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s agitation, Jia Shu didn''t take it seriously. He soothed him with a smile, "Chief Qiu, don''t be agitated. Perhaps that colonel misspoke, or I misheard."


    "Or maybe he''s trying to deliberately sow discord between us."


    "These kinds of things are quite common among our brother departments."


    "Moreover, I haven''t chosen to believe it, have I?"


    "Otherwise, why would I entrust you with such an important task?"


    With that, Jia Shu also tapped the document in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Qiu Tu, though still visibly indignant, finally stopped insisting on making a report.


    After soothing Qiu Tu a few more times, Jia Shu then waved his hand, indicating that Qiu Tu could leave.


    Interestingly, Qiu Tu knew when to quit while he was ahead. After saluting Jia Shu, he took the documents and left Jia Shu''s office with an expressionless face.


    But after Qiu Tu had left, the smile on Jia Shu''s face slowly faded, as he watched the office door close slowly with a deep gaze.


    His face was filled with contemplation....


    After quietly reflecting for a while, Jia Shu slowly opened a notebook on his desk.


    It had several pages of scribbles and drawings. The events since Master Qin Si''s escape were all meticulously listed.


    Then.... Jia Shu wrote a bunch of comments and speculations with a vermilion pen.


    For instance.... It was Qiu Tu who actually forced Master Qin Si to flee.


    Qiu Tu was already collaborating with the Security Department by that time, which is why they covered for him.


    For instance.... On the day of Yin Caimei''s death, Secretary Bai must have suspected something was wrong with Qiu Tu''s identity and worried that he was the actual murderer, so he sneakily made a phone call to tip someone off.


    For instance.... The spy list from the Investigation Bureau within the military was leaked by Qiu Tu in order to make amends for the oversight.


    However, regarding how Qiu Tu got hold of the list, Jia Shu marked it with a bright red question mark, clearly guessing that he couldn''t figure out where Qiu Tu obtained the spy list from.


    y Like.... Yesterday, in the case of Commissioner Qin Heng, Qiu Tu was pretending to be earnest in investigating, but in reality, he had already informed the Security Department about all the details of the case, hence the scene where they extensively captured people afterward.


    As for the motive behind Qiu Tu''s actions, Jia Shu also clearly wrote two names: Qin Shuman and Yan Chen.


    Under Qin Shuman''s name, he noted two words "missing" and then.... an arrow pointing at Master Qin Si.


    Clearly, even though Yan Chen believed he had guessed wrong, Jia Shu still thought Qiu Tu was involved with Qin Shuman.


    He even suspected that the reason Qiu Tu chased away Master Qin Si was to take the opportunity to rescue Qin Shuman.


    All subsequent actions, including the targeting of the Qin Family, undermining Yan Chen and himself, were all because of this irreconcilable conflict.


    If Qiu Tu were here right now, seeing this notebook, he would probably break out in a cold sweat.


    After all, except for some minor details, the notebook contained almost the entire truth of the incident.


    After quietly reading the information on the notebook for a while, Jia Shu slowly closed it, his face revealing an exceptionally relaxed and content smile....


    ''This fruit is indeed mischievous, even at this stage, it''s still playing a part.''


    "But... finally, it''s almost time to close the net.... I can hardly contain myself anymore...."


    [Jia Shu''s Suspicion Level +0, Satisfaction Level +0]


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Having left Jia Shu''s office, Qiu Tu glanced at the popup notification and then frowned slightly.


    The lack of increase in [Satisfaction Level] was understandable to Qiu Tu. After all, very few could fathom a twisted mind.


    But the fact that the [Suspicion Level] hadn''t risen at all? That was a bit odd, wasn''t it?


    Qiu Tu was no fool; Jia Shu''s suspicions were blatantly laid out for him today.


    He even unabashedly fabricated lies to test him.


    This was almost a sign of an imminent falling out.


    If so, and the suspicion level remained unchanged, then.....


    ...wait a minute!


    It suddenly dawned on Qiu Tu to make a bold guess: Could it be that Jia Shu''s suspicion of him had been maxed out from the start?!


    So he never believed in him at all?


    So.... no matter what he did, his suspicion level wouldn''t change at all?!


    With that realization, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a chill run down his spine!


    He couldn''t help but look back, and for some reason, he felt as though Jia Shu, with his hands crossed below and propped against his cheeks, was gazing at him with an impassive look that seemed to penetrate through walls, observing his pre-death struggles.


    ''Damn it, I really can''t delay any longer! I must take him down soon!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then turned around and made for the executive elevator to the ninth floor of the Investigation Bureau!


    He planned to have a serious talk with that dangerous woman, Tang Feifei....


    After all, when it comes to life and death, "innocence" is worthless....


    ....


    After taking the elevator to the ninth floor, Qiu Tu walked towards Tang Feifei''s private office and rest area.


    ------


    Today is still 3 chapters with 10k words, first posting 2 chapters with 7k words, the 3rd chapter is estimated to be sent before 19 o''clock.

 Chapter 158 - 132 Stay with Me Tonight (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    As one of the three Deputy Directors of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei, despite being suppressed by Yan Chen, still held a rank and status within the organization.


    Therefore, the size and decoration of her office and rest room were second only to Yan Chen''s.


    Standing in front of the office door, which was a good four meters high, Qiu Tu "knock, knock, knock." knocked on the door.


    Accompanying Qiu Tu''s knock, a rustling sound came from inside the door. However... it took a good ten seconds before the office door was opened from the inside.


    As the door opened, who appeared before Qiu Tu was Tang Feifei''s assistant, the little spy from the Security Department, and one of Qin Shuman''s possession targets: Su Xiaowan.


    Today, with her hair pulled back in a ponytail and dressed in casual clothes, she looked like she had just exercised, with fine sweat on her forehead and a slightly flushed face, giving her the appearance of a youthful girl.


    Upon opening the door, before she could clearly see the person outside, she reflexively said, "I''m sorry, Director Tang is taking a nap. Please come back in the afternoon if you have any matters."


    After saying this, she seemed to have a bit of soreness in her arm, and then... she stretched her arms.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Taking a nap? Were you the one accompanying her?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu spoke with a strange expression, "Assistant Su. It''s me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Su Xiaowan finally looked up at Qiu Tu. Upon realizing it was Qiu Tu, a hint of delight flashed in her eyes, and she became much more alert.


    She glanced inside, then poked her head outside and whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu, what brings you here? Did you come to see me?"


    Qiu Tu was left speechless by the naive girl''s question. Was she really asking such a sensitive question so casually?


    Was she truly not worried about exposing herself?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu quietly reminded her, "Assistant Su, be discreet with your words and actions."


    "Today, I came to see Director Tang."


    After speaking, he looked inside and inquired, "Director Tang should be in there, right?"


    Facing Qiu Tu, Su Xiaowan of course wouldn''t lie, so the innocent girl nodded and said softly, "Yes, she''s in."


    After that, she added with some distress, "But... she told me to say she wasn''t in."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Once you go back, tell her that it''s me looking for her, and I won''t leave."


    Although Su Xiaowan was a bit simple, she was very obedient.


    So upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she closed the office door and went back inside to report.


    Indeed, it wasn''t long before she reappeared at the office door with a smile on her face, "The Bureau Chief is inside waiting for you."


    While waiting outside, Qiu Tu had been observing to see if anyone noticed him.


    Perhaps because it was the weekend, there was no movement on the ninth floor.


    But he knew that every second he delayed, the risk of being exposed increased, so upon hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and immediately slipped into Tang Feifei''s office.


    Unlike Yan Chen''s office layout and decoration, Tang Feifei''s office emphasized a more robust style.


    Both the furniture and the ornaments were mainly in dark grey with black as a secondary color. It didn''t look like the office of a beautiful woman, but rather that of a tough guy.


    Su Xiaowan closed the door and led Qiu Tu towards the rest room inside the office.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu hadn''t entered Yan Chen''s rest room to look around, but today he finally saw the full scope of the high-level rest room at Tang Feifei''s place:


    An area close to two hundred square meters, partitioned into several zones by cold walls. There was a living room, a bedroom, an audio-visual room, and even a fitness room!


    ''Damn luxurious!'' Qiu Tu thought as he looked around, following Su Xiaowan to the fitness room.


    But just as they reached the door of the fitness room, Su Xiaowan started taking off her uniform.


    Qiu Tu was startled, thinking he had stumbled upon some melodramatic "seduction trap."


    It wasn''t until Su Xiaowan took off her outer coat that Qiu Tu saw she was actually wearing a form-fitting outfit that hugged her figure perfectly.


    Looking at the fabric of the clothes and their curves, it somewhat resembled the yoga suits and yoga pants from Qiu Tu''s past life...


    With that guess in mind... as soon as the door to the fitness room opened, he saw Tang Feifei also wearing a set of matching tight-fitting clothes, practicing her boxing.


    The fitted clothes outlined her shapely, robust figure that exuded immense explosive power and resilience.


    She moved like a graceful leopardess, a proudly blooming tropical flower, throwing punch after punch in the fitness room, passionately shedding sweat!


    That silky tight waist, that healthy wheat-colored skin, and those ample, firm breasts... with every movement, it was as if she emitted a remarkable wildness and vitality!


    It had to be said, she was indeed an extraordinary woman.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was eyeing Tang Feifei, after swinging her last few punches, she gradually stopped her exercise.


    She took a few deep breaths, her cheeks rosy, her eyes bright as she looked at Qiu Tu and invited him, "Care to join?"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly laughed and declined, "No thanks, I don''t know how."


    Tang Feifei didn''t say much, just smiled, "Then it seems you have a different matter to discuss with me today."


    After that, she waved her hand to Su Xiaowan, signaling her to go out.


    Having stripped off her clothes and preparing to continue her workout, Su Xiaowan looked bewilderedly at Tang Feifei, then at Qiu Tu, and pointed to her own face, "Me?"


    "Mhm," Tang Feifei made a sound of affirmation, "You''re off work, go home and rest."


    "Before you leave, remember to lock the office door."


    Su Xiaowan: ...


    Qiu Tu: ....


    The more he listened to this, the more awkward it sounded.


    Touching his nose, Qiu Tu felt as though Tang Feifei was deliberately showing off her power, and he... was unable to escape his fate.


    At this moment, Su Xiaowan also sensed something amiss. She couldn''t help but glance at Qiu Tu.


    But in front of Tang Feifei, how could Qiu Tu dare give any meaningful looks? So, she obediently picked up her uniform from the ground and left the gym.


    Soon after, following the rustling sounds of getting dressed, there was also the sound of the office door opening and then closing.


    After Su Xiaowan left, Tang Feifei picked up a towel from the rack, wiping the fine sweat from her neck while indifferently introducing to Qiu Tu, "This girl is a spy from the Security Department."


    "She serves as a conduit between me and the Security Department."


    "Any intelligence or information I want to leak to the Security Department can be pretended to be inadvertently mentioned to her. Soon, they will know on their side."


    "As for her... she might be a bit silly, but she''s cute and quite interesting. Most importantly, she isn''t too clever, so using her is reassuring."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Indeed, in front of a big shot like Tang Feifei, a greenhorn with clumsy methods like Su Xiaowan was practically transparent.


    A few probing words, a couple of glances were enough to discern the truth.


    And thinking back to when Su Xiaowan had said Qin Shuman would possess her to help deal with work, even earning the nickname "the half-asleep Assistant Su."


    Qiu Tu suddenly realized....


    Looking at it this way... actually, there had long been an unspoken understanding between Tang Feifei and the Security Department.


    It''s very likely that both sides were using Su Xiaowan as a medium for cooperation, conveying messages and negotiating terms in their own way.


    Furthermore, since this cooperation was conducted on an individual basis, what was being played was trust and understanding, thus even if two power institutions investigated, they''d find no trace of the cooperation.


    ''Masters indeed....''


    In that moment, Qiu Tu gained a new appreciation for the methods of Tang Feifei and the Security Department.


    After explaining Su Xiaowan''s identity to Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei had also finished wiping off her sweat. She tossed the towel to Qiu Tu while asking, "Did you come to see me because of yesterday''s incident?"


    There was admiration in her eyes, "I remember you did quite well yesterday. You played the three major institutions of Xinjie City like a fiddle with a few simple tricks."


    "If I''m not mistaken, Yan Chen had no suspicions about you, right?"


    Qiu Tu caught the towel, which carried the faint scent of jasmine from Tang Feifei''s body.


    ''Is this some special kind of constitution? Or has it been marinated?''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu casually replied, "Yes, Yan Chen indeed found nothing. But at Jia Shu''s place, I might have been exposed."


    "I feel there''s some danger. So, I wanted to deepen our cooperation."


    "Deepen our cooperation?" Tang Feifei, hearing this, half-closed her eyes and glanced at Qiu Tu with a hunter''s interest upon spotting its prey.


    "Sure," she said, "then... stay tonight and keep me company."


    "What are you dreaming of!" Qiu Tu cursed with a laugh, "Bureau Chief, I''m in the business of talent, not my body."


    Probably no one had ever dared to reject her so bluntly. Tang Feifei chuckled twice, her eyes becoming warmer as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    She upped the ante, "I can satisfy another one of your requests, as long as it does not cross my boundaries."


    Qiu Tu chuckled and walked away.


    He wasn''t the type to climb the ladder by selling his charms.


    Ten or so seconds later, he returned to the gym with two bottles of expensive foreign liquor in hand, "How about two requests?" sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei had thought Qiu Tu had really left just now. Seeing him return as she was removing her tight-fitting shirt almost made her burst into laughter.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and asked with a smile, "Didn''t you say you only sell your talent, not your body?"


    Qiu Tu snorted dismissively, "There''s a first time for everything, right? How would you know if it isn''t delightful without trying?"


    For some reason, Tang Feifei felt that Qiu Tu''s attitude resembled that of a young girl who had strayed and was now falling into depravity.


    This novel experience did not diminish her interest due to Qiu Tu''s compliance but sparked a yellow light in the depths of her eyes once again....


    She gave Qiu Tu a look, suppressed her own powerful heartbeat, and then spoke, "Okay. Two requests then."


    Saying that, she half-smiled at Qiu Tu, her glance resembling a lazy but dangerous and wild lioness, "Wait for me. I''m going to take a shower."


    After saying this, she casually threw the shirt she had taken off on the floor and headed for the bathroom....


    ----


    Three updates, a total of 10,000 words! We''ve been surpassed on the Monthly Ticket leaderboard, I''m begging for Monthly Tickets! Updating again tonight!

 Chapter 159 - 133: Bureau Chief, No Resistance Allowed (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept over the tight shirt before landing on Tang Feifei.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei was like a proud queen, expressionlessly strutting towards the bathroom while stripping off her clothes one by one.


    Tight pants...


    White chest binder...


    Underwear...


    As each piece of clothing was discarded, by the time she reached the bathroom door, her body was completely uncovered, fully revealed to Qiu Tu for the first time.


    Her neck had graceful lines, her breasts were full yet firm, the lines of her vest delineating captivating curves, and her muscles across her body were solid without losing a woman''s softness. There was an indescribable wild beauty about her!


    Reaching the bathroom door, she turned back and arrogantly smiled at Qiu Tu before pushing the door open and walking in.


    Soon, the sound of "whoosh whoosh" from showering began in the bathroom.


    Hearing that suggestive noise, Qiu Tu''s mind seemed to conjure up images of Tang Feifei raising her arms to apply shower gel to her body.


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, he was indeed a little stirred.


    ''How can I be so unprofessional! All of this is for work! Work!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu diligently began to pick up Tang Feifei''s clothes from the floor and neatly piled them on the nearby shelf.


    After finishing this task, he approached the bathroom door, listening to the "whoosh whoosh" of the water and knocked, sincerely asking, "Director Tang, do you have a bath towel inside? Do you need me to bring it in?"


    Qiu Tu praised his own spirit of service.


    However, a cold voice from Tang Feifei came from the bathroom, "You can come in directly and scrub my back."


    Qiu Tu''s heartbeat sped up for a moment, and in the spirit of complete service, he tentatively asked, "Is it possible to scrub the front as well?"


    The sound of the water inside seemed to pause for a moment. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open, accompanied by mist, and a wheat-colored arm with droplets of water reached out from inside toward Qiu Tu.


    But Qiu Tu wasn''t about to let Tang Feifei catch him so easily. He dodged with a "haha" and laughed as he moved out of the bathroom''s range, calling out from a distance, "Director, you wash up first, I''ll wait for you outside."


    After saying that, he hummed a tune and left the fitness room.


    The wet wheat-colored arm hung in the air for a moment. Then a light laugh from Tang Feifei could be heard from the bathroom.


    "Interesting."


    With that murmur, the bathroom door slowly closed and the sound of running water resumed...


    ...


    After teasing Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu brought liquor and glasses to the lounge''s living room.


    He placed the alcohol and glasses on the coffee table, and then sat down on the sofa to wait for Tang Feifei.


    Somehow, Qiu Tu always felt that his current relationship with Tang Feifei was akin to the dynamics he had with Liu Fuping today.


    It was always the superior using power to coerce the subordinate into servitude with seduction.


    ''Indeed, those who do wrong will eventually face retribution.''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu propped his hands behind his head and rested his feet on the coffee table, blankly staring at the ceiling, contemplating the terms of his deal with Tang Feifei...


    Lost in thought for who knows how long, as Qiu Tu was still immersed in his reflections, a fragrant breeze carrying moisture softly hit his face.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and turned to look, only to see Tang Feifei wrapped in a white towel with her wet hair, wiping it with a towel as she walked towards him.


    She didn''t even ask before sitting snugly against Qiu Tu. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Paji~"


    From the sound made when her buttocks touched the sofa, one could infer the roundness and firmness of her behind.


    Qiu Tu also felt the sofa sink, and it seemed his leg touched Tang Feifei''s.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    He felt that today''s Tang Feifei had really gotten a hold of him.


    ''I can''t let her set the pace!''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu picked up the square glasses from the coffee table, pouring drinks for both of them.


    After finishing with her hair, Tang Feifei naturally took the square glass.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with a half-smile, then sipped the drink. She didn''t press directly but started with business matters, "So, how do you propose we cooperate more deeply?"


    Seeing the conversation turn to business, Qiu Tu also relaxed a bit.


    His facial expression gradually became serious, and then he said, "Jia Shu is up to something."


    Tang Feifei glanced at him, "And what about it?"


    Qiu Tu, "Is there a way to settle this once and for all?"


    Tang Feifei paused, almost thinking she''d misheard, "You mean...?"


    Qiu Tu raised his hand, making a downward slashing gesture.


    Tang Feifei:.....


    She laughed, "If there were such an opportunity, do you think Yan Chen would still be alive?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked at her in astonishment, "Yan Chen is alive because you can''t beat him, right?"


    Perhaps power is a taboo subject for Tang Feifei; upon Qiu Tu''s words, a vein on her forehead throbbed, and she looked at Qiu Tu grimly, "Who told you I can''t beat Yan Chen?"


    Qiu Tu mentally noted "intelligence acquired" to himself.


    He hadn''t guessed wrong; this woman must be among the top in terms of martial strength in all of Xinjie City.


    Tang Feifei continued, "It''s one thing to be able to beat someone, another to have the opportunity to do so."


    "Given Yan Chen''s identity, to dare touch him would be to cut oneself off from the Sanctuary, not just completely giving up one''s prospects there, but also facing pursuit from all the major Sanctuaries."


    "Don''t underestimate such a pursuit. Bear in mind that even ordinary people with firearms can harm regular Cataclysmics."

 Chapter 160 - 133: Bureau Chief, No Resistance Allowed (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    "So, it doesn''t take much, just send a troop to persistently hunt down a Cataclysmic, and sooner or later, that Cataclysmic will be worn down to death."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a piercing look, "So, drop that unrealistic thought of yours early on."


    "Jia Shu, as the head of the Political Department and a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, is someone who is truly listed in the Sanctuary."


    "Kill him, and you''re finished too."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu thoughtfully responded, "What if he makes a move on me?"


    Tang Feifei laughed, and as she wiped her hair, she coolly counter-questioned, "Who are you? Someone who''s never even appeared on the Sanctuary''s census?"


    She left the rest unsaid, but Qiu Tu understood: if he died, the Sanctuary wouldn''t even know it. So


    ''Indeed... This is going to be difficult...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then asked further, "Then... at what rank would Jia Shu no longer be able to lay hands on me as he pleases?"


    Tang Feifei replied icily, "According to Sanctuary regulations, a Section Chief in the Planning Area can register with the Sanctuary, becoming an official resident."


    "A Department Head is formally included in the Sanctuary''s roster of officials and enjoys various special privileges and allowances."


    "So...." She said, glancing at Qiu Tu, "you just need to rise one more level, and then Jia Shu won''t be able to touch you easily."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a stir within.


    Indeed... to protect myself, promotion is most crucial!


    Promotion can not only enhance one''s own strength but also confer a higher status, making enemies hesitant to move!


    With this in mind, he asked again, "By the way, how is the progress of your application to the Sanctuary to investigate Jia Shu?"


    When the subject came up, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face tightened slightly. She said, "Your plan started too suddenly. I couldn''t coordinate in time."


    "So, it wasn''t until last night that I managed to arrange for a confidant to apply to the Sanctuary for an investigation under the pretext of Jia Shu''s malfeasance and silencing key suspects."


    "But it''s the weekend. The earliest response from the Sanctuary would not come until Monday afternoon."


    "Actually, before yesterday, I wasn''t too confident about the Sanctuary''s reply. I even planned to call back to the Sanctuary to see if I could push it forward proactively."


    "But after yesterday''s actions by the Security Department, the Sanctuary must have noticed Xinjie City already."


    "Given the way the Sanctuary operates, they''re likely worried that such a commotion could disrupt the unity and stability of Xinjie City."


    "This investigation I''ve submitted might just align with their intentions. So, it''s highly likely that the Sanctuary will send someone down to investigate Jia Shu while overseeing the work of the Security Department."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei also turned to look at Qiu Tu beside her.


    Every move of hers carried an indescribable rhythm, exuding a powerful beauty that was captivating.


    "I have to say, your tactics yesterday were splendid. I believe that except for the few of us who know the details and might guess something, most were fooled by you."


    "You don''t seem like someone from the lower echelons at all, but more like an outstanding con artist, a politician with some measures."


    Light flickered in the depth of her eyes, filled with amber glow, "You... are really interesting."


    Possibly prepared for sacrifice, Qiu Tu seemed much more at ease.


    He didn''t answer her question, but looked straight into Tang Feifei''s eyes, raised his glass in hand, and said with a smile, "Let''s drink."


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei averted her gaze and sipped her wine lightly.


    Qiu Tu also took a sip, then spoke firmly, "Since there''s no way to take out Jia Shu, I might need your protection."


    Tang Feifei drank her wine, her face full of curiosity as she watched him, "Are you so sure Jia Shu will make a move on you?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, "Not certain."


    "But I prefer to be cautious in my actions. I don''t want to put myself in danger."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei laughed so hard she was nearly shaking, "You''re not already in danger?"


    "I feel like you''re tightrope walking every day."


    Qiu Tu chuckled bitterly at her words. If there were other choices, who would want to live in constant peril!


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s predicament, Tang Feifei fell silent for a moment, then suddenly stood up. She walked with her long, sleek, perfectly straight legs to a safe in the corner of the living room.


    She entered the password, opened the safe door, and Tang Feifei bent over, her butt sticking out as she rummaged inside.


    Qiu Tu looked over with a face full of surprise, then awkwardly shifted his gaze away.


    That woman! She wasn''t wearing any panties!


    So in his line of sight, everything was fully revealed!


    Soon, Tang Feifei closed the safe. She held a small white paper figure in her hand as she came over to Qiu Tu.


    Striding over with her long legs, Tang Feifei approached Qiu Tu and sat down on his lap, then handed the small paper figure to him.


    "This is called ''Trigger Paper Figure,'' a defensive type of Cataclysmic treasure," she said.


    "Its function is to automatically trigger when you''re attacked, forming a protective layer over your body," she continued.


    "This defensive layer can withstand attacks from high-caliber firearms and last for over 30 seconds," she explained.


    "Enough time for you to escape if you''re in danger...." she added.


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei mentioned, "However, this is a life-saving item reserved for department heads and above."


    "I''m lending it to you for now," she said.


    "If it doesn''t trigger, you can return it to me later," she stated.


    "If it does trigger... then you''ll slowly repay me with your body," she teased.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu paused and replied, "Is this thing that expensive? My body isn''t cheap."


    Tang Feifei''s mouth curved into a smile at Qiu Tu''s jest; her eyes half-closed as she looked at him, like a leopardess eyeing her prey, "You really have no shame," she remarked.


    "Tell me, how much do you charge per session?" she asked provocatively.


    Qiu Tu cleared his throat, "No matter the cost, could you remove your hand first? It seems you''re grabbing my ''brother.''"


    Sitting on Qiu Tu''s lap, Tang Feifei did not show the slightest embarrassment upon hearing his words. On the contrary, her eyes flickered with a dangerous glint, "What? Thinking of backing out?" she challenged.


    Qiu Tu hastily shook his head, "No, that''s not it. It''s just... I remember you said that if I stayed to keep you company, you''d grant me two requests?"


    "Does that offer still stand?" he inquired.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei slowly lost her smile, looking at him with a chilly gaze, as if she anticipated what was coming, "Of course."


    Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Then my first request is... you''re not allowed to touch me today."


    For some reason, at that moment, Tang Feifei suddenly lost all interest.


    She really enjoyed the thrill of the hunt, the delight in teasing her prey, or playing with it.


    But when the prey consistently used little tricks to escape her pursuit, it just didn''t seem fun to her anymore.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei looked deeply at Qiu Tu, then slowly stood up from his lap. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had a magnanimous nature; she didn''t fly into a rage or take back the Cataclysmic treasure she had just given Qiu Tu. Instead, she turned her back to him, picked up a square glass, and downed it in one go!


    "You can go now," she said after finishing her drink.


    After placing the glass down, Tang Feifei coldly dropped these words and turned towards the bedroom.


    But then, at that moment,


    suddenly, a robust body lunged at her from behind!


    Caught off guard by the attack in her own room, and slightly disoriented from the alcohol, Tang Feifei couldn''t dodge in time and was tackled to the ground!


    Her reflex was to struggle, but just then, Qiu Tu suddenly bit her ear and said in his deep, husky voice, "Bureau Chief, my second request is... you''re not allowed to resist!"


    In that instant, Tang Feifei''s body stiffened. She felt a strange sensation she had never experienced before!


    It was an entirely new feeling from the inside out!


    -----


    Still going for the big update, haha! First 2 chapters, 7k words, third chapter to update around 19:00! Seeking Monthly Ticket! Seeking subscriptions!

 Chapter 161 - 134: A Day and Night with Tang Feifei (Subscribe, please!)

    She couldn''t quite understand what that feeling was.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off the towel she was wearing, and loomed over her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again felt what set Qiu Tu and Liu Fu apart from the rest....


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing like a liberated serf!


    But... she was, after all, a woman of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, throughout the day and night, she really never initiated contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She was just secretly exerting herself!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew, to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he didn''t give her much chance to rest!


    And so, late into the night, the two finally fell asleep in each other''s arms, and by that time, the 200-plus square meter resting room, in every bedroom, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was dozing off in his drowsy state, Qiu Tu also silently marveled in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to a Changer and gained incredible enhancements to his body, plus, if he hadn''t forbidden Tang Feifei from taking charge...


    He estimated... after this ordeal, his back would''ve declared its retirement....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, along with the first rays of morning sunshine.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from his deep sleep.


    His first instinct was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt a sore ache in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu took a sharp breath, then came to his senses amid the soreness, examined his arms, and only then did he belatedly remember the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking about his hard work from the previous day, laboring to the point where he could only bury his head and toil, thinking about Tang Feifei, who was almost torn apart by the ordeal, he silently lit a candle for his back....


    Feeling that his back might be of no use anymore.


    Thinking this, he shifted his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot up to his crown.


    ''Forget it, let''s light another candle for Yue Kua as well, probably wrecked too....''


    Silent in his reflections on the intensity of the previous day''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached beside him, only to find that the place was already empty, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had long known their encounter was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no merit, there''s still hard work, right?''


    ''That''s quite ungrateful!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot, bare-legged, naked, walked over carrying a bowl of medicine. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her legs were long, her body''s curvature was enchanting, seemingly containing an endless explosive power and resilience.


    Her walk had a rhythm that was hard to describe, like a panther moving silently and swiftly through the jungle, every step full of strength and rhythm.


    When she arrived at Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to set down the medicine, then said indifferently, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    This scene felt familiar, this statement was also oddly phrased.


    But since the [Crisis Countdown] did not pop up, Qiu Tu knew that Tang Feifei had no intention of harming him.


    So he picked up the bowl of medicine, tilted his head back, and downed it in one gulp.


    As the potion slid down his throat, Qiu Tu felt a wave of coolness wandering through his arms, back, and thighs; the soreness seemed to be gradually fading away.


    Qiu Tu raised his arm and straightened his back in amazement, and to his surprise, they were neither sore nor painful anymore.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s reaction, Tang Feifei smiled slightly, "Why were you so vigorous last night?"


    "Even I felt sore all over when I got up this morning and had to drink this Cataclysmic Potion for recovery."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu coughed, and with a serious expression, said, "I, like the Bureau Chief, am true to my word."


    "The Bureau Chief resisted the urge to fight back and didn''t touch me during the ferocity of last night. Since I said I would stay with you for a night, I would certainly stay the whole night!"


    Hearing this, Tang Feifei paused for a moment, half-squinting her eyes, smiling ambiguously as she glanced at Qiu Tu. But she didn''t say anything further.


    However, from the unintentional charm she exuded, Qiu Tu could still sense a slight change in the way this woman in front of him related to him and her attitude toward him....?


    Just as Qiu Tu was trying to figure out Tang Feifei''s change, Tang Feifei slowly stood up. She walked over to the wardrobe, took out a new binding cloth, and as she began to bind her chest, she said to Qiu Tu in a detached tone, "It''s already 9 o''clock."


    "You might be seen if you leave through the main entrance."


    "I''ll take you through the safe passage in a while."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "A safe passage? There''s a safe passage in the office?"


    Having finished binding her chest, Tang Feifei started getting dressed as she looked down and explained, "Of course."


    "The Planning Area isn''t like the Sanctuary; it doesn''t have all kinds of defensive facilities and experts."


    "Therefore, many cities could face powerful Cataclysmic Creatures or attacks by Anti-government Armed Forces on major power institutions."


    "That''s why high-level offices often have a direct-to-ground-floor safe passage as emergency insurance."


    "That shouldn''t be hard to understand, right?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu blinked and suddenly seemed pensive....


    ''Emergency passage....''


    ''Insurance....''


    Thinking of what Tang Feifei said about all the high-levels having such insurance, and recalling how he had also looked for insurance before backstabbing Yan Chen, he suddenly had an epiphany....


    He seemed to have guessed why Old Master Qin was so composed at the Security Department!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu leapt up from the bed with an excited face and hugged Tang Feifei, kissing her cheek, "Bureau Chief! You truly are my lucky star! I''ve got it! I''ve got it!"


    Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu somewhat dumbfounded, her face reddening slightly, but she still maintained her Bureau Chief''s posture, patting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "Alright, we''re short on time."


    Realizing that now was not the time for celebration, Qiu Tu quickly got dressed, putting on his uniform. Then he followed Tang Feifei to the safe passage.


    The so-called safe passage was actually a tube wide as a bucket. Sliding down the tube would take you directly to a hidden area on the ground floor.


    This area was concealed within the partition between the outer and inner walls of the first floor, accessible through a hidden door that perfectly matched the exterior wall.


    And around that hidden door, they''d planted holly of human height, adding to the concealment.


    Following Tang Feifei''s instructions, Qiu Tu left the Investigation Bureau''s office building through the safe passage, and then... took a walk around the office building before sneaking back in.


    Upon returning to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu didn''t delay and went straight to the 9th floor.


    Since it was a workday, nearly all the members of the investigation team had arrived on the 9th floor.


    Even Wang Xi, who was always out "working," the slacker expert Song Qing, and... Liu Fuping, who Qiu Tu had cheated on, had all come.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, the agents on the scene immediately stood up and greeted him, "Chief!" "Hello, Chief!" "Good morning, Chief!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and looked around at them, then opened with a promise, "You''ve all worked hard. Once we finish this case, we''ll take a break!"


    After speaking, he called out a few names, "Big Biao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, Ding Xiaoliu... You guys come out with me."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t call her name, Liu Fuping pondered for a moment and quickly sashayed forward, volunteering herself, "Chief~ take me with you too."


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, quickly considered the matter. Today''s affair wasn''t sensitive, and Liu Fuping likely wouldn''t mess things up, so he nodded in agreement.


    With Tang Feifei''s "Trigger Paper Figure" at his disposal, Qiu Tu was no longer worried about those attacks from the darkness.


    So, after assembling his team, they left the Investigation Bureau en masse, ready to make an arrest!


    Just now in Tang Feifei''s lounge, Qiu Tu had finally realized why Old Master Qin remained so confident in the face of the Security Department''s interrogation.


    The reason was simple; he truly had a backup plan, or rather... insurance.


    Why could "Immortality" only have one body?


    Why couldn''t it involve dividing the soul into two, or controlling two bodies at the same time?


    With this, all of Old Master Qin''s bizarre behaviors had their answers.


    The reason he kept denying the charges wasn''t that he thought he could escape responsibility but was buying time for his "insurance"!


    He was allowing his "insurance" to escape smoothly or move critical data and assets!


    It was precisely this layer of insurance that made Old Master Qin so calm in the face of such dire straits! Because... he wasn''t afraid of dying!


    With this realization, Qiu Tu felt that all the mysteries could be explained.


    So what he was going to do today was to extinguish Old Master Qin''s last hope!


    -----


    PS: This chapter was blocked, and after being cut many times, it was finally released..


    We''ll still go for the 10,000-word update! First two chapters are 7k words, and the third chapter will update around 19:00! Asking for Monthly Tickets! For subscriptions!

 Chapter 162 - 135 Liu Fuping: It Seems I’ve Been Cuckolded? (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    ```


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu took his most loyal confidants and left the Investigation Bureau.


    After he departed, the investigation team''s office gradually became noisy again.


    The huge upheaval that happened over the weekend had already started spreading among the middle and lower tiers of Xinjie City these last two days.


    So, everyone knew that during the weekend, there was a massive power shuffle among the upper echelons of Xinjie City, and the key figures were Qiu Tu and the Security Department.


    As the representative figure of the Political Department, Qiu Tu was the first to light the fuse of this huge bomb, which was then blown sky-high by the Security Department!


    They not only arrested 1 committee member, 2 directors (including Qin Heng), 5 deputy directors, 26 division heads and deputy division heads but also brought down one of the biggest local snakes in Xinjie City: the Qin Family!


    The ordinary investigators didn''t know anything about factions or who belonged to whom. They just knew Qiu Tu''s move was incredibly cool!


    Thus, even the normally overtime-hating slacker, Song Qing, who missed this major event, felt extremely regretful.


    She lay on the table, venting weakly to her colleague Wang Xi beside her, "Ah. If I had known, I wouldn''t have told the director that I hate working overtime."


    "They arrested so many division heads and directors! They even arrested our own Director Qin from the Investigation Bureau!"


    At this point, Song Qing''s eyes gleamed, "If I could have assisted on the side, or personally slapped the handcuffs on them, that would''ve been so satisfying!"


    "Then, even when having afternoon tea with my friends, I''d have something to boast about!"


    Having said that, Song Qing''s expression turned to dejection, "But...it''s all because I told the director we didn''t want to work overtime that he didn''t call us."


    She sighed and collapsed onto the desk again, "It''s all my fault, all my fault...."


    Meanwhile, the Wang Xi sitting beside her yawned and listlessly responded, "Are you sure we weren''t called for this operation because you told the director you didn''t want to work overtime?"


    "Why do I feel it''s because the director doesn''t trust us?"


    With that said, he counted, "You see, everyone who took part in the operation over the weekend were either the director''s former subordinates or old friends."


    "People like Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Zhu Huoyan, those were all people the director has used many times." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But us...whether it''s you, me, or Sister Liu who has only worked on cases with him, we''re just common subordinates."


    "It stands to reason that he doesn''t trust us, and it''s normal not to call us for an operation, right?"


    Today, Wang Xi was clearly gloomy in both mood and appearance. His dark circles were heavy, as if he indulged in excesses.


    If one observed carefully, they could see an eerie light in the depths of his eyes...


    But Song Qing was not a detailed person, so she didn''t notice the anomaly in Wang Xi. All her thoughts were still on why Qiu Tu didn''t take them along for the mission!


    Flushed with contention, she argued, "Impossible! The chief is so nice, he must have been sparing us."


    "And considering the ambiguous relationship between the chief and Sister Liu, even if he doesn''t trust us, he should trust Sister Liu!"


    "Then why didn''t he call Sister Liu either?"


    "So, your reason doesn''t hold up at all!"


    Hearing Song Qing''s words, Wang Xi hesitated for a moment. He intended to object, but he also felt there was some truth in what she said.


    Although Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping always thought they were hiding their relationship well, anyone who often saw them together could sense something was off¡ªtheir eyes were practically spinning yarn!


    As members of the Interrogation Section''s [Gossip Squad], Wang Xi and Song Qing had long noticed the ''affair'' between the two.


    Moreover, they would occasionally discuss in private: if there were no outsiders present, would Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping have already given into their passions and taken things further?


    So with these thoughts, Wang Xi suddenly agreed with Song Qing''s perspective, nodding, "You''re making sense."


    "It''s normal for him not to call us, but it''s indeed strange not to call Sister Liu."


    Song Qing lifted her head slightly, wearing an "I was right after all" expression.


    Seeing Song Qing''s cute demeanor, Wang Xi was momentarily dazed, the faint light in his eyes flickering gently.


    Then he changed the subject tentatively, "By the way, Song Qing. You said...you and your friends often have afternoon tea, right?"


    "Where do you usually go for it?"


    The darkness was slowly spreading, but Song Qing seemed utterly unaware....


    ....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was leading his confidants on their way to the target.


    Since it was an arrest operation, several confidants drove the prison van, with only Liu Fuping sitting in the passenger seat beside Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind having a beautiful woman accompany him while driving, so he agreed to her sitting there.


    As he drove, Qiu Tu stretched a hand toward Liu Fuping, who, seeing his gesture, naturally angled her legs towards him.


    The beauty of a married woman lies in her understanding of your mission, thoughts, and needs, and her willingness to cooperate.


    Qiu Tu smiled as he placed his hand on top, touching and feeling. Plump and tender, utterly different from Tang Feifei''s.


    Tang Feifei was full of elasticity and strength, a beauty filled with vitality.


    He liked both, feeling that each had its own merits. If he could have them both together and slowly compare them, that would be great....


    And while Qiu Tu shamelessly indulged in these thoughts, Liu Fuping quietly sighed beside him.


    "Sigh...."


    Qiu Tu glanced at her but ignored her.


    Liu Fuping continued to sigh.


    ```


    Qiu Tu continued to ignore her.


    Finally, on the third time Qiu Tu ignored her, Liu Fuping could no longer restrain herself.


    She took the initiative to speak. "Qiu Tu, it seems that Director Tang might be having an affair."


    Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then looked at her strangely and asked, "Having an affair? What kind of affair?"


    Liu Fuping said, "I needed to see her yesterday, but I couldn''t find her at her villa, her office, or Emerald Fort."


    "I kept calling her, but she didn''t answer."


    "It wasn''t until this morning that she finally sent me a text, saying she didn''t check her phone yesterday and was very busy."


    "I called her, but she was very cold to me on the phone. She hung up after just a couple of sentences."


    Speaking of this, Liu Fuping looked sad, "Do you think she has someone else now?"


    At these words, Qiu Tu''s face was also filled with surprise.


    While driving, he said, "That can''t be. I don''t think Director Tang is that kind of person."


    "Don''t overthink it."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu changed his tone, "Even if she did have an affair, actually, it''s not a problem. I''ll tell you what to do..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping looked at him curiously, "What should I do?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, "You have an affair too! Take your revenge fiercely! You don''t need to find someone else¡ªtake me."


    "I''m not only good in action but also tight-lipped, definitely won''t tell her."


    "Giggle giggle giggle." Hearing Qiu Tu''s flippant words, Liu Fuping was tickled and shook with laughter.


    She gave Qiu Tu a disdainful look, "I knew you wouldn''t say anything nice."


    After saying that, she suddenly changed her tone and asked stealthily, "By the way, what were you doing after seeing the minister yesterday? "


    "It felt like I didn''t see you around all day."


    Qiu Tu snorted, saying nonchalantly, "Where else could I go? I was with the Bureau Chief."


    "You know how difficult our Bureau Chief is to please. I worked hard the entire day just to make TA satisfied."


    Liu Fuping, well-informed, knew about Qiu Tu''s dutiful actions in Yan Chen''s office the day before. Hearing his words, she assumed Qiu Tu had gone to do errands for Yan Chen yesterday as well.


    Therefore, she nodded slightly, leaning her head against the car window, eyes brimming with suspicion,


    ''Qiu Tu seemed very natural. So it''s not him...?''


    ''Then who could it be...?''


    While driving, Qiu Tu cast a knowing glance at her, the corners of his mouth curving up slightly.


    The highest art of lying is to tell all truths, but make the other person wrongly interpret them...


    ...


    So, a group of people in two cars soon arrived at a small villa belonging to Old Master Qin''s youngest son in Xinjie City.


    Before preparing to apprehend Old Master Qin, this "insurance," Qiu Tu went over the available intelligence on this "insurance" in detail.


    Qin Laowu, named Qin Cheng, was ostensibly the youngest son of the Qin Family, born to Old Master Qin''s second wife.


    Because he was a late child, and his mother had died in a difficult childbirth, Old Master Qin cherished this son immensely.


    He would give his son anything he wanted.


    This had caused Qin Cheng to grow up unrestrained, arrogant, and domineering, bullying both men and women.


    It was said that Qin Cheng understood the difference between men and women at a very young age, not only asking his father for beautiful maids but also frequently "insulting" them.


    Even though he wasn''t fully developed at the time, he could still make these beautiful maids do some wicked things.


    Later, as he grew taller and stronger, Qin Cheng started frequenting the various bars and nightclubs owned by the Qin Family, hunting and pursuing beauty.


    For this... the Qin Family had to clean up his messes countless times.


    Even later, while he somewhat reined in his behavior, he still didn''t engage in proper businesses, instead lingering in pleasure quarters or flirting and pursuing beautiful women.


    Thus, he gradually earned the nickname "Profligate Son."


    In summary, this was the story of a mentally twisted scion spoiled rotten by familial indulgence.


    Initially, Qiu Tu didn''t pay much attention to him. After all, in times of chaos, there are all kinds of deviants, and what''s one more small deviant obsessed with sexual matters since childhood?


    But this morning, when he guessed that Old Master Qin was likely not "just one person," but could possibly be "multiple people," or even capable of entering the bodies of many people simultaneously,


    Qiu Tu knew that maybe... Qin Laowu was Old Master Qin''s "insurance."


    And Qin Laowu''s licentious life these years could very well be... the conduit for that ''God'' whom Old Master Qin worshipped...


    Thinking this, after recalling the intelligence, Qiu Tu slowly stopped the car. His gaze pierced through the car window, profoundly observing the small villa in the distance...


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    This chapter was blocked again, seems to have been targeted. It''s best if everyone reads every day.


    Three chapters with ten thousand words settled today, continuing with the daily ten thousand tonight!


    Requesting Monthly Tickets, requesting subscriptions! My thanks!

 Chapter 163 - 136: Insane Extortion! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    Perhaps it was Qiu Tu''s intensely deep gaze that aroused Liu Fuping''s curiosity, so she followed his line of sight and looked at the villa.


    Her sole reason for following Qiu Tu today wasn''t any ulterior motive; she was simply upset about Tang Feifei''s suspected affair and wanted to chat more with Qiu Tu to cheer herself up.


    So... she had no idea why Qiu Tu was here or what he intended to do.


    After such a glance, Liu Fuping flicked her hair and gently caressed Qiu Tu''s face with the tips, seductively asking, "Commander, who is our target today?"


    It must be said that among all the women Qiu Tu knew, Liu Fuping was the best at flirting.


    Not to mention Shen Lingshuang and Tang Feifei, who had no clue about seduction, even Qin Shuman was slightly inferior.


    With just a strand of hair, she could play up a charm.


    Qiu Tu felt an itchy tingling on his face that spread all the way down to his waist.


    He gently swatted Liu Fuping''s hand away, shot her a glare, and then took out his communicator to call Cao Dabiao in another car.


    "Big Biao, have someone block all the exits of the villa, then take control of it," he instructed.


    "Yes!" Cao Dabiao''s acknowledgment came from the communicator.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu tilted his head and watched through the car window as Cao Dabiao and the others set out to execute their plan.


    Although Cao Dabiao was a sly old fox with various flaws, small and large, his abilities were commendable. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have made it to be a First Level Detective.


    Under his arrangement, soon, Qiu Tu''s confidants were positioned all around, armed and ready, blocking the various entrances to Qin Cheng''s small villa.


    As for Cao Dabiao himself, he led Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, and Zhu Huoyan to the villa''s doorstep with a flamboyant swagger and knocked.


    Possibly because the action was too monotonous, Liu Fuping tilted her head and glanced around, then adjusted the rearview mirror on top of her head before taking out a somewhat rudimentary lipstick to touch up her makeup.


    After applying the lipstick, Liu Fuping pursed her lips with a "pop pop" and checked her reflection.


    Once she confirmed her makeup was flawless, she reached into the wide neckline of her clothing to adjust her bra straps and pushed her arms together to make her cleavage appear even more fair and profound...


    After all these preparations, Liu Fuping checked her makeup and outfit in the mirror again. The more she looked, the more enchanting she appeared¡ªsimply perfect!


    ''I don''t believe Tang Feifei won''t be utterly charmed!'' she thought, feeling quite elated.


    Whether Tang Feifei would be charmed or not, Qiu Tu wasn''t sure, but Liu Fuping''s series of actions definitely made his blood run hot.


    The more he observed Liu Fuping, the more she seemed ingrained with allure, each gesture seeming to tantalize a man''s heartstrings.


    If it weren''t for the critical mission he was on, he''d surely be tempted to strip off her clothes, pry open her bra, and show her what it meant to be thoroughly ravished day and night!


    "What''s the matter?" Perhaps noticing Qiu Tu''s unusual gaze, Liu Fuping tilted her head and curiously inquired.


    Then she flashed a smile at Qiu Tu, showing off her attire and makeup for the day, "Do I look good?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Damn it.


    Women really do distract from work!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu reached over and boldly groped Liu Fuping''s chest!


    After feeling the smooth, soft sensation, Qiu Tu shook his head amidst Liu Fuping''s exclamation, "Get out of the car! Move!"


    Having said that, he withdrew his hand without any reluctance and stepped out of the car with long strides.


    Liu Fuping, embarrassed and annoyed, clutched her chest, shot a glare at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, and then elegantly followed him out of the car.


    The two arrived at the wide-open door of the villa; by then, Cao Dabiao had already secured the situation inside.


    A young man who looked a lot like Qin Heng was sitting on the couch with his hands over his head, his neck shrinking and his body curled up.


    Beside him were three attractive young ladies with nice figures, dressed in glittering evening dresses.


    They wore plunging necklines, showing off ample success in their careers, also revealing fair legs that suggested less than respectable intentions at a glance.


    They were now being held at gunpoint by Cao Dabiao, huddled next to Qin Cheng, trembling and not daring to move a muscle.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu motioned to Liu Fuping with a shake of his head.


    Understanding the gesture, Liu Fuping walked over, pulled each of them up, and escorted them out of the villa.


    Indeed, although Liu Fuping was flirtatious and enchanting in front of Qiu Tu, she was ruthless when it came to interrogation and dealing with suspects. A girl barely delayed a step before Liu Fuping kicked her, warning her not to try any tricks.


    Watching the women leave, Qiu Tu waved his hand at Cao Dabiao. Cao Dabiao and the others promptly left the villa''s living room, starting to stand guard outside.


    Now that the living room held only himself and Qin Cheng, Qiu Tu''s face broke into a smile.


    He went over, hooked his arm around Qin Cheng''s neck, and said as if they were old pals, "Fifth Master Qin?"


    Qin Cheng didn''t seem to have the rumored arrogance and defiance. Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, he responded timidly and with his head lowered, "I am the Qin Family''s fifth, Qin Cheng."


    At this, Qiu Tu uttered an "Oh," nodded and said, "Right, Qin Cheng!"


    Then, as if remembering something, he added, "Sorry, got a bit busy and forgot. Happy birthday, huh." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a flicker of bewilderment crossed Qin Cheng''s face.

 Chapter 164 - 136: Insane Extortion! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    He first gave an awkward smile, then said, "Um, share the joy, share the joy."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at him with a surprised look and said, "Share what joy? Today is my birthday."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Cheng obviously paused for a second before then responding with an embarrassed laugh, "Ah? Is it? Well then, happy birthday, Chief Qiu."


    Qiu Tu caught every single reaction of Qin Cheng and formulated some conjecture in his mind, yet he continued to act without showing his thoughts, "Thank you, thank you. So...."


    Qiu Tu stretched out his hand, "Do you have any birthday presents for me?"


    Qin Cheng, upon hearing this, gave Qiu Tu a look. His eyes, slightly blurred from debauchery, seemed sharp as if trying to see through Qiu Tu''s thoughts...


    But Qiu Tu just smiled at him, as if he really was just there to extort something.


    Seeing this, Qin Cheng gave a couple of awkward laughs and tentatively said, "Chief Qiu, if I give you money, can I leave then?"


    Qiu Tu looked at him seriously, "Fifth Master, this I must correct you on."


    "First, it''s not giving money, it''s presenting a birthday gift. These two are completely different concepts."


    "Second, this is your home. Why would you want to leave?"


    "Clearly, it should be us who ought to leave."


    Qiu Tu''s words seemed to reassure Qin Cheng who quickly responded, "Right, right, right, that''s what I meant."


    After saying that, he added, "Then I will go and fetch Chief Qiu''s birthday present now."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu called towards the doorway, "Chen Feng!"


    Shortly after, Chen Feng''s figure appeared at the door, responding starkly, "Present!"


    Qiu Tu nodded towards him, "Follow Qin Wuyi to retrieve my birthday present."


    Chen Feng, "Yes!"


    As he watched the two of them ascend to the second floor of the villa, Qiu Tu''s face, which had been smiling the whole time, slowly became expressionless. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason he first inquired about Qin Cheng''s birthday and then asked for a present was, in fact, all to test him.


    Although he suspected that Old Master Qin had not only taken over one son''s body all those years ago, it was, after all, just a suspicion.


    He couldn''t just arrest Qin Cheng based on mere suspicion, nor could he use his once-a-day "Cataclysmic ability" to interrogate on the strength of such doubt.


    Therefore, he had to first determine through probing whether Qin Cheng was a likely suspect.


    Luckily... his own arrival might have been a bit sudden, not giving Qin Cheng much time to prepare.


    So, with just two simple tests, Qiu Tu could almost confirm that the teenager before him was very likely Old Master Qin himself...


    Thinking this way, he couldn''t help but contemplate how to deal with this old fellow who had single-handedly founded the Qin Family...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the same time that Qiu Tu and Qin Cheng were engaging in their standoff.


    Several hundred meters away from Qin Cheng''s small villa on the street, a shadow slipped through the shadows of the street like a phantom, stirring up whirlwinds in its wake.


    Quickly following the traces of Qiu Tu''s vehicle, it arrived at the outskirts of Qin Cheng''s villa.


    Upon recognizing the environment, the shadow was momentarily stunned.


    ''Why is it Old Qin''s villa?''


    ''Could it be... the target has learned of Old Qin''s identity and is preparing to make a move?''


    With that thought, the shadow grew noticeably more anxious.


    Like a monkey, with a few leaps, it reached the crown of a large tree.


    It stood lightly on a thin branch as if without weight, looking out over the situation near the villa.


    As it ceased moving, the leaves seemed to integrate with its body, making it almost impossible for outsiders to see.


    Before long, it had a clear understanding of the immediate vicinity of the villa.


    There were nine investigators outside, eight men and one woman.


    The eight male investigators were positioned in pairs on all four sides of the villa.


    The lone female investigator was reprimanding three scantily dressed women on the lawn while taking notes.


    ''This is a bit tricky....''


    The shadow silently analyzed the situation, "An Investigation Bureau squad probably consists of 10-12 people. So there should still be 2-4 people inside the house."


    "Although it''s a bit dangerous... I can give it a try."


    Thinking this, the shadow, carrying an old-fashioned rifle, silently jumped down from the tree and, once again stepping into the shadows, turned into a gust of wind, beginning to infiltrate the villa...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    A few kilometers away from Qin Cheng''s villa, a transport truck was also making its way toward Qin Cheng''s villa.


    Inside the cargo compartment of the truck were a dozen or so young men holding guns, excitedly gesturing to each other.


    They wore uniform black knitted balaclava hats and patchwork tactical vests that were old and worn, with a big red cross spray-painted on the chest, clearly members of the United Front...


    Among them, a young man standing in the center, was vigorously pep-talking everyone, "This time, it''s a mission arranged by the higher-ups! Let us eliminate a person who poses a significant threat to the organization!"


    "He not only killed two of our members but also disrupted the organization''s various plans!"


    "The higher-ups have promised that if we successfully kill him, we can receive a lot of rewards! Leave this broken planning district and move to the [Holy District]!"


    "Good!" Hearing the leader''s enticing promises, the dozen or so young men present were all greatly inspired!


    They waved their guns, as if they could see that brilliant and splendid future....


    ...


    At the same time, inside the villa.


    Qin Cheng was clearly still harboring a sliver of hope for Qiu Tu.


    So, when Qiu Tu asked him for a birthday gift, he didn''t play any tricks but went upstairs to the safe to retrieve a small golden horse and brought it down holding it in both hands.


    After placing the small golden horse in front of Qiu Tu, Qin Cheng said with a forced smile, "Chief Qiu, this is a small golden horse, I wish you a happy birthday and may you achieve immediate success!"


    Hearing Qin Cheng''s incongruous blessing, Qiu Tu smiled and picked up the small golden horse to admire it.


    One had to admit, it was exquisitely crafted and hefty. Too bad it was... obviously not something a young person would like.


    Especially for a teenager...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu laughed and placed the golden horse on the table, then pretending to be greedy, said, "Fifth Master, who gives just one gift in a household?!"


    "Haven''t you heard that good things come in pairs?"


    "When giving gifts, it''s always done in doubles!"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s appetite growing, Qin Cheng''s expression stiffened slightly.


    But, given the situation was stronger than him, after hesitating for a moment, he still forced a smile and said, "You make a good point, a very good point. I''ll go get another one."


    After saying that, he went upstairs again, this time with Chen Feng.


    Qiu Tu watched Qin Cheng''s retreating figure with an indifferent gaze and shook his head slightly.


    It seemed that Old Master Qin had lately been so exhausted by the interrogations of the Security Department that he had lost his coolness and basic judgment.


    A teenager like him, at an age full of hot blood, spoiled and doted on by his family. How could he possibly remain this restrained in the face of constant pressure? That was practically an inadvertent confession.


    With these thoughts, soon after, Qin Cheng returned with another small golden horse to the living room on the first floor of the villa.


    Watching Qin Cheng fawning like a sycophant and bursting with gold coins, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He weighed the two golden horses in his hands, they should be about 600 grams. It was not that his hands were accurate, but rather... the weight was marked underneath the horses.


    A small goldfish is roughly 31 grams of gold, equivalent to 200 Silver Yuan.


    And these two golden horses amounted to 20 small goldfish. Nearly 4000 Silver Yuan, roughly equivalent to the purchasing power of 3.2 million RMB.


    On the surface, Qiu Tu remained expressionless, but inside he clicked his tongue in admiration.


    It was just like Old Master Qin to be so wealthy. A casual "greeting gift" was almost worth as much as the cash Master Qin Si carried with him when he fled.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu played with the two golden horses as if he couldn''t put them down.


    After fidgeting with them for a while, Qiu Tu put down the two small golden horses and looked at Qin Cheng again, with a leg propped up, smiling and saying, "Not enough."


    At that moment, Qin Cheng''s entire face changed.


    -----


    Today, there will still be three updates of ten thousand words, guys. As per the old rules, first two updates, and the third will be around 19:00. Please subscribe, and ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 165 - 137 Exposing Old Master Qins Identity (10,000-word plea for subscription!)

    Clearly, Qin Heng had also realized that Qiu Tu''s appetite was like a bottomless pit.


    If things went on like this, his entire fortune wouldn''t be enough to fill Qiu Tu''s "greed".


    Therefore, knowing that a soft approach wouldn''t work, Qin Cheng immediately switched tactics.


    He "whooshed" to his feet and then pointed at Qiu Tu and cursed, "You son of a bitch! I''ll fucking..."


    He had barely started speaking when Qiu Tu directly reached for the gun at his waist and "swoosh!", pressed it against his forehead.


    The muzzle of the Ice Spear caused Qin Cheng to swallow back the rest of his words instantly.


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a furious expression, feeling as if he had truly seen a ghost!


    Was this Deputy Chief really so lawless!?


    Storming into a person''s home with investigators and starting to extort!?


    If extortion failed, just draw a gun and shoot!


    Was there no law left!?


    This was the Planning Area under the control of the Sanctuary! Qin Cheng remembered that even when Xinjie City was still a Disaster Zone, the public security had never been so outrageous!


    Although he was cursing Qiu Tu furiously in his heart... Qin Cheng really didn''t dare to gamble with Qiu Tu. After all, during this period, he had come to understand a bit about Qiu Tu''s "madness".


    Who knew whether Qiu Tu wasn''t just bluffing, but actually planning to end his life!


    Thinking this, Qin Cheng''s face once again wore a forced smile, "Chief Qiu, why can''t you take a joke?"


    "Just now, I was just trying to perform a little joke for you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Ha ha," and patted Qin Cheng''s face with the gun, "Fifth Master, you indeed look like a joke."


    "But still... I actually prefer the unruly look you had just now."


    Qin Cheng quickly piled on an even thicker smile, "Chief Qiu is joking. How could I possibly act unruly in front of Chief Qiu!"


    After saying that, he hastily added, "Right, Chief Qiu, weren''t you dissatisfied with the birthday gift just now?"


    "In addition to these two Golden Horses, how about I give you 10 more Little Goldfish, what do you think?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "20."


    A hesitant expression flickered across Qin Cheng''s face, but in the end, he nodded, "Deal!"


    Qiu Tu, "40."


    Just as Qin Cheng was extending his hand to shake with Qiu Tu: ??


    "Pfft."


    At the entrance, a suppressed laugh rang out. It was Liu Fuping who had just finished taking notes and returned to the villa.


    Perhaps because she remembered how Qiu Tu had raised the price with her a few days ago, she laughed so hard that her whole body shook, causing waves to surge.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu glanced at her and paid no mind to the woman shirking her duties.


    Meanwhile, Qin Cheng''s forehead was dotted with sweat, but faced with the dark muzzle of the gun, he didn''t dare to wipe it away.


    So he took a few deep breaths, begging for mercy, "Chief Qiu, I really can''t come up with that many Little Goldfish."


    Qiu Tu, however, said indifferently, "Then you go sell them."


    Qiu Tu took another look at Qin Cheng top to bottom and clicked his tongue, "I must say, Fifth Master, you do have some good looks."


    "Kuku kuku..." Liu Fuping, standing at the doorway, couldn''t help but muffle her laughter, sounding like someone stifling their chuckles.


    This intensified the humiliation felt by Qin Cheng, making his face even uglier.


    He took a couple of deep breaths, ready to throw some tough words out again.


    But just then, Qiu Tu unexpectedly interrupted him, "Enough, Old Master, you''re in your dozens and still putting on an act in front of a youngster like me, isn''t it tiring?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Cheng''s pupils obviously shrunk sharply, and his body stiffened for a moment.


    But then, he pretended not to understand and looked at Qiu Tu, "Chief Qiu, what are you talking about? I don''t understand what you mean." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu, however, looked at him expressionlessly and analyzed mercilessly, "After I exposed your identity, your pupils contracted slightly, you blinked three times in succession. Lips pinched tight, your body involuntarily shook slightly."


    "This shows your inner nervousness and unease. You are on guard."


    "Heh heh," Qin Cheng chuckled dryly, "Agent Qiu, I don''t understand what you''re talking about."


    "I am me, not some old master."


    As he said this, he looked seriously at Qiu Tu, "Today, you forced your way into my house, drove away my... erm, friends. You took out a gun and threatened me, asking for bribes."


    "All of this I will record and then lodge a complaint with the Investigation Bureau, the Municipal Committee!"


    "Even if the Qin family is currently facing difficulties... there are so many families in Xinjie City watching."


    "In the establishment of Xinjie City, the Qin family has also worked hard for the Sanctuary, has its merits."


    "If our family has indeed made a mistake, we will accept any punishment from the Sanctuary."


    "But to treat an unrelated family member like me with such unfairness, I believe that the major families of Xinjie City will not just stand idly by and watch!"


    "At that time, I''ll be interested to see if the Investigation Bureau can protect you!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "While you were saying the first part, your gaze drifted to the left; your body slightly turned to another direction, reducing direct contact with me; your body movements drew back, subconsciously performing self-protection."


    "This means you''re lying,"


    "And while you were speaking the second half, your hand clenched slightly, your body tensed up, and your tone raised. It indicates that you''re trying to muster up some nerve, attempting to intimidate me,"


    "Old Master, you have way too many slips...shall we keep going?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s questions, one after another made for an interrogation, "Qin Cheng" seemed to recall the fear he had been subjected to by the Security Department over the past couple of days...


    For the past two days, the non-stop interrogation by the Security Department had really worn him out, both mentally and physically. Thus, in his "spare time," he had called over three girls, hoping to relax a bit.


    But who would have expected that before he could even start to unwind, the Political Department burst in, and to top it off, that damned Qiu Tu actually came to his house to interrogate him!


    If it had ended there, "Qin Cheng" might not have so easily thrown in the towel. After all, at worst, he would just be dealing with two interrogations at the same time.


    But...as the kingpin who single-handedly brought the Qin Family into the top three in Xinjie City, even though Old Master Qin might not have had the highest level with the backing of family heritage and the Anti-government Armed Forces, he did have an eye for reading people, gained from years of grappling in the Jianghu.


    So, he was absolutely certain that Qiu Tu was not bluffing him. He truly knew his identity, his secrets.


    Facing the young Chief who single-handedly sparked a massive purge throughout Xinjie City, Old Master Qin knew that continuing to stubbornly resist was pointless.


    Thinking this, he took a deep breath, gradually relaxed, and the hunched back due to obsequiousness slowly straightened.


    He finally stopped pretending and looked at Qiu Tu with eyes neither joyful nor sorrowful, asking, "How did you find out my identity?"


    After finishing talking, he paused to think, then confidently spoke to himself, "It was Yong Dong who spilled the beans, wasn''t it?"


    "He must have revealed my secret to that child, Little Ru. Then you interrogated it out of her, right?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu watched with great interest as Qin Family''s old master''s demeanor seemed to be that of a completely different person, feeling that things were finally getting interesting.


    However...even though he found it interesting, Liu Fuping and Chen Feng inside the room did not share the sentiment. They just felt like they couldn''t keep up with the unfolding events, as if their CPUs were burning out...


    At first, they watched with composed and spectator-like expressions as Qiu Tu relentlessly pressured Qin Cheng, the last scion of the Qin family.


    Due to their trust in Qiu Tu, they didn''t believe that he had traveled this far solely to extort a rich second-generation facing a great disaster.


    Thus, they were also waiting for Qiu Tu to show his hand, eager to discover what secrets Qin Cheng was hiding.


    But...when Qiu Tu called Qin Cheng "Old Master," they had already started to get confused.


    What Old Master? Who is the Old Master?


    Is this teenager in front of them the Old Master?


    At this point, their heads were wrapped in question marks.


    Therefore, when Qin Cheng finally admitted that he was the "Old Master," the two of them were utterly dumbfounded.


    They felt like failing students in a math class, who, in the time it took to look down and pick something up, saw "1+1=2" turn into "Goldbach''s conjecture" on the blackboard!


    They felt as though they hadn''t missed anything, and the "problem" remained the same, but the entire process and development were completely different!


    With this in mind, they rapidly replayed the conversation between Qiu Tu and Qin Cheng.


    Both considered elites within the Political Department and quite capable, they pieced together the dialogue between Qiu Tu and Old Master Qin as well as key names like "Yong Dong" and "Little Ru" that were mentioned...


    Soon, a bold speculation began to take shape in their minds!


    ''Is this teenager really Old Master Qin, once a major figure in Xinjie City?''


    ''What the hell is going on!'' they thought.


    With this, they immediately considered another question: How did their chief find out?!


    Why was he looking for this supposedly resurrected Old Master?!


    With these thoughts, both felt as though their chief was shrouded in mystery!


    So, they eagerly perked up their ears, not daring to blink, afraid they might miss some critical information!


    Meanwhile, facing Old Master Qin''s question, Qiu Tu didn''t respond at all.


    He was the interrogator, not the criminal; he had no obligation to answer Old Master Qin''s questions.


    Instead, he simply started a new line of questioning, probing, "Old Master, how are you adapting to this new body of yours?"


    "What''s it like to have two bodies?"


    ...


    At the same time.


    Outside the villa.


    A shadow carrying an old rifle on his back and wearing goggles easily entered the villa''s garden along the side of the house.


    It seemed he had some kind of Invisibility Class Cataclysmic ability, which is why the agents, even after scanning his hiding spot several times, seemed unable to see his figure.


    Thus, utilizing various shadows and corners, the shadow successfully avoided the patrolling gaze of the eight agents and the three handcuffed young ladies'', infiltrating the villa...


    Once inside the villa, his movements became even more cautious.


    Moving along the shadow by the wall, he skilfully headed towards the living room.


    Soon, he arrived at the entrance to the living room and saw Cao Dabiao and two other agents.


    -----


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 Chapter 166 - 138: The Other Party Sent You a Party Invitation (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    At this moment, Cao Dabiao was at the living room entrance, keeping watch while chatting idly with Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan.


    Since there were several other teams of scouts on guard outside the villa, the three of them weren''t very vigilant.


    Leaning against the wall, Ding Xiaoliu peeked through the crack of the door at the scene inside the living room and then naively asked, "Brother Biao, I just overheard something about today possibly being the boss''s birthday."


    "Shouldn''t we also prepare a gift for him?"


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s words, Cao Dabiao slapped the back of his head and said in a low voice, "Are you an idiot!"


    "The boss could be celebrating his birthday any of the 365 days in a year, just not today!"


    "When he says it''s his birthday, it''s clearly a ruse to fleece that Qin Wuyi!"


    "Without finding a pretext, wouldn''t that be too embarrassing for him?"


    As he said this, Cao Dabiao leaned against the wall too, putting on the air of someone who had been around, and explained to Ding Xiaoliu, "Let me tell you. The boss is the smart one here. This kind of thing, it happens in every city. If we don''t eat, others will."


    "Forget about the Qin Family, even those lofty directors and committee members would be stripped clean of their wealth and family by everyone in Xinjie City if they can''t survive this ordeal."


    "The juiciest benefits get eaten by those at the top, the broth and juices are taken by us, and even the scraps and leftovers are cleaned up by the neighbors or underground factions."


    "Anyway... it''s a dog-eat-dog world. Don''t think you''re above it all just because you were yesterday. If you fall today, countless others will want to eat your flesh, drink your blood, and suck your bones dry."


    After listening to Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu looked at him admiringly and said, "Brother Biao, you know so much."


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao smiled smugly and boasted, "I heard it from my uncle who''s a Deputy Staff in Eastern City."


    "They established Eastern City a year and a half before ours, and they''ve been through all kinds of bloody storms."


    "A lot of their experiences are very useful to us."


    Continuing, Cao Dabiao lowered his voice and said, "According to my uncle, the first to third year after a city is founded is when the upper-middle classes go through the most frequent reshuffling."


    "Many conflicts suppressed during the city''s early days start to erupt. The major families and powers are gradually adapting to the rules of the Planning Area and also start scheming to seize power and profit from the higher-ups from the Sanctuary."


    "So, many forces and families could be wiped out, and many officials could be brought down. And this is when the real sifting begins!"


    "As long as you side with the right people in these two years, you will see significant development!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Ding Xiaoliu suddenly said, "I see. No wonder I''ve recently heard that those big shots on Longshan Road seem..."


    While Cao Dabiao and Ding Xiaoliu were shooting the breeze, a shadow silently lurked not far from them, listening to their entire conversation.


    He wasn''t concerned with the latter analyses from Cao Dabiao''s uncle but focused on the first part of Cao Dabiao''s words.


    ''The target is extorting Old Qin?''


    ''This is good news. It seems Old Qin''s identity has not been exposed...''


    ''Then I need to be extra careful when I make my move, to not expose Old Qin...''


    Thinking this, he estimated the distance between Cao Dabiao''s group and the door to be only half a meter. His Cataclysmic ability couldn''t guarantee not being exposed within this distance.


    Fortunately, he was very familiar with the layout of the villa, so he glanced around the corridor and quietly made his way around the wall towards the other side of the living room...


    ...


    Meanwhile, inside the villa''s living room, Qiu Tu and Old Master Qin were continuing their tense standoff.


    Inhabiting a body that was only in its teens, Old Master Qin''s eyes were deep and restrained. Aside from that, he showed no difference from a young man, whether in expression or vitality.


    When he heard Qiu Tu''s question, he smiled faintly and said, "This body is a clone of my own genes, of course, I feel perfectly comfortable in it."


    "As for how it feels... of course, it''s a sensation of youth I''ve never had before!"


    "My skin no longer has disgusting age spots or wrinkles; my teeth are no longer loose; my joints no longer ache when it''s rainy and damp! Even... my manhood is brimming with energy every day!"


    As he spoke, he looked at Qiu Tu, his eyes filled with a naked desire that seemed ready to burst forth, "Do you understand the feeling... of waking up every morning, hard awake?!"


    "Do you understand the feeling of going through battle with several women and still being as spirited and energetic as ever?"


    "Do you understand the sound of women begging for mercy and their words of adoration?!"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    He shook his head slightly, advising, "Old Master, there''s always a loss for every gain in this world. If you''ve acquired such ability, you must have lost much more."


    Old Master Qin laughed heartily, "Indeed! I''ve lost aging, embarrassment, and worries!"


    After saying this, Old Master Qin looked at Qiu Tu seriously, and said earnestly, "Qiu Tu, you''re young now and won''t understand the despair one feels when one ages gradually and life nears its end..."


    "To keep living, to return to youth, I would give anything!"


    "That''s why I made a deal with ''God''."


    As he said this, he glanced at Chen Feng, who stood by his side, and Liu Fuping, who stood by Qiu Tu''s side, and spoke with a devout tone, "Today, since you''ve become aware of ''God''s'' information, it means you''re fated with ''God''."


    "Therefore, I can offer you a chance to bask in the ''Divine Light''!"


    "Rest assured, just basking in the ''Divine Light'' doesn''t mean you have to worship ''God''!"


    "Once you experience the joy within, you will willingly dedicate your loyalty to ''God''!"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Qiu Tu felt like something was wrong with his ears, as if they could automatically translate certain phrases.


    Basking in Divine Light? Considering the path of ''God'' that Old Master Qin worships¡­ isn''t that basically an invite to a "silver party"?!


    This is¡­ if one could receive such an invitation without needing to bask in the ''Divine Light,'' Qiu Tu would certainly run faster than anyone!


    After all, he was a man who would never gamble or dabble in drugs!


    But¡­ the thought of having to bask in the ''Divine Light'' made Qiu Tu apprehensive.


    Who knows if there might be some problems with it?


    This was a world with supernatural powers, and moreover, these powers were of a bizarre nature. Participating in such a "silver party," Qiu Tu genuinely worried that he would become a puppet to that ''God'' from this point forward!


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu didn''t dare let Old Master Qin continue to control the pace of the conversation. He timely brought the pace of the conversation back under his control.


    He said disdainfully, "Experience the joy within?"


    "I can experience plenty of joy without your ''God.''"


    "Moreover, without your ''God,'' I can still hear the pleading cries and admiring words of women."


    "What? Can your ''God'' give me the experience of being simultaneously in front and behind?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Old Master Qin immediately showed an evil smile, "Of course."


    "If you have two bodies, you can surely experience different sensations at the same time, can''t you?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu feigned surprise and interest as Old Master Qin had anticipated.


    Then he inquired, "What about three bodies together? Wouldn''t that be even more thrilling?"


    Old Master Qin confidently said, "Of course, that''s possible. As long as you are sufficiently devout to ''God,'' you can have three bodies at the same time!"


    Qiu Tu asked, "Have you experienced it?"


    This time, Old Master Qin obviously hesitated, but he still said with a smile, "Of course!"


    Seeing Old Master Qin''s expression and hearing his words, a smile formed on Qiu Tu''s lips: Key information obtained.


    In the exchange of questions and answers between Qiu Tu and Old Master Qin just now, the most important wasn''t the dialogue itself, but the moment of hesitation from Old Master Qin.


    That hint of hesitation was a clear sign of insincerity. So, Qiu Tu could be certain that he hadn''t tried having three bodies at once.


    And considering Old Master Qin''s behavior today, as well as the reputation of Qin Cheng as a profligate son in Xinjie City,


    if he truly had three bodies, he would definitely have tried it at least once to experience it.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu could almost be sure that Old Master Qin probably only had Qin Heng and Qin Cheng''s two bodies.


    So¡­ if both he and the Security Department captured one of his bodies¡­ he was very likely unable to escape!


    ''It seems¡­ I might not need to resort to my Plan B and can wrap this up directly.''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu lost the desire to continue talking nonsense with Old Master Qin and was ready to directly issue the order to have him handcuffed and then slowly interrogate him and uncover the secrets of ''God''!


    At that moment, suddenly, Qiu Tu''s Spiritual Perception tingled, as if giving him a warning.


    Qiu Tu instinctively looked in the direction of the warning.


    It was the corridor that led from the villa''s living room to the backyard.


    But when Qiu Tu looked over, he realized that there was nothing unusual there.


    Forget about the cats and birds in movies and TV shows that draw the enemy''s attention; there wasn''t even a piece of paper.


    Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed slightly, puzzled: Could it be¡­ am I being overly suspicious?


    This small villa covered more than 600 square meters, with seven or eight rooms on the first floor, and as the living room that connected everything, it naturally had many pathways, with four or five exits alone.


    Although Cao Dabiao was only guarding the front door, other agents were on watch in the garden in the back, and it would be impossible for someone to enter the villa undetected from the back.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu withdrew his gaze, ready to issue his commands once again. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But just then, suddenly!


    There was a loud "Bang!" of a gunshot!


    Qiu Tu reflexively ducked his head and then belatedly realized it came from outside the villa!


    At the same time, that gunshot sounded like a signal for the enemy to attack, as a series of gunshots, "Bang! Bang! Bang!" "Bang! Bang! Bang!" began to ring out over the villa!


    ----


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 Chapter 167 - 139: Turning the Tide! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing that succession of gunshots, even a fool would know something was wrong, that they had encountered a hostile attack.


    Therefore, without needing Qiu Tu''s instructions, Chen Feng rushed forward in a few strides, grabbed Old Master Qin''s arms, and twisted him back onto the table, demanding loudly, "You actually dare to arrange an attack on the Political Department?"


    Old Master Qin also felt incredibly wronged at this moment. Although he had committed countless misdeeds, this wasn''t his doing!


    So, with a bewildered look, he shook his head, "I don''t know. This isn''t arranged by me."


    Qiu Tu''s face was as cold as water as he looked into Old Master Qin''s eyes, briefly discerning that he probably wasn''t lying.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t panic due to the hostile attack, but instead calmly issued orders, "Chen Feng, handcuff Old Master Qin to the staircase."


    The staircase in this small villa had metal handrails that couldn''t be moved. Once handcuffed, there was no escape.


    Chen Feng hastily complied, escorted Old Master Qin to the stairs, and handcuffed him.


    Seeing that Old Master Qin was secured, Qiu Tu called out to the outside, "Big Biao!"


    The living room door was pushed open from the outside, and Cao Dabiao walked in with a serious face, pistol in hand, "Chief!"


    Qiu Tu ordered, "You and Chen Feng stay here."


    "Keep a close watch on Old Master Qin, don''t let anyone take him away amidst the chaos."


    After speaking, he pulled out his own service pistol, motioned towards Liu Fuping, and Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan by the door, "Let''s go see who dares to cause trouble outside!"


    When faced with a sudden attack, the composure of the team leader could easily stabilize the moods of the subordinates.


    Therefore, seeing how composed Qiu Tu was, everyone else, who had been nervous just moments ago, calmed down as well.


    They drew their pistols and followed Qiu Tu out with rapid strides.


    And after Chen Feng, Cao Dabiao, and Old Master Qin were left alone in the living room, the atmosphere instantly became much colder.


    Cao Dabiao also knew this was a crucial moment, so he put away his usual carefree demeanor and took a defensive position on the other side of the living room with his gun, forming a triangular position with Chen Feng, who was guarding Old Master Qin.


    ¡ª¡ªOn a battlefield where enemies might appear at any moment, guards should be spread out to avoid being wiped out all at once.


    And Cao Dabiao''s behavior indeed posed some difficulty for the shadowy figure who had just sneaked into the living room.


    He glanced at Cao Dabiao hiding behind a cabinet, then at Chen Feng guarding Old Master Qin, raising and lowering the rifle in his hand.


    Possibly lacking full confidence in rescuing Old Master Qin unharmed, he thought for a moment and then hid upstairs, taking out a small silver metallic box from his pocket.


    The surface of the little box was carved with various eerie and bizarre patterns, inside it was lying a plump white caterpillar.


    Opening the box, the shadow gently pinched the white caterpillar.


    The caterpillar, as if in pain, spat out a transparent, delicate thread.


    The shadow continued pinching, and the caterpillar kept releasing more thread.


    Soon, there was a small pile of transparent threads in the box.


    The shadow picked up the end of the thread and tossed it into the void toward the floor below. The thread, as if existing in another reality, silently penetrated the floorboards, walls, and countless spaces, striking directly into Old Master Qin''s heart...


    In that instant, Old Master Qin''s body visibly jerked. Seeming to know what it was, his expression shifted subtly and he directly inquired in his heart, "Lone Wolf? You''re here?"


    Upstairs, the Lone Wolf tied the other end of the thread to his finger and also responded in his heart, "Old Qin, it''s me." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Qiu Tu has been staying in the Investigation Bureau this whole time, and I never had the chance to make a move."


    "So as soon as he left the Bureau today, I followed closely, only to end up here at your place."


    Upon hearing this, Old Master Qin asked deeply, "Did you bring those people outside?"


    Lone Wolf replied succinctly, "No."


    "Knowing that you were under Qiu Tu''s control, I didn''t want to spook anyone, just sneaked quietly into the villa without calling for backup yet."


    Pausing for a moment, he then asked, "I see that there are only two of them guarding you. If you cooperate with me and find a way to dodge at the right moment, I should be able to get you out safely."


    Hearing Lone Wolf''s words, Old Master Qin immediately rejected the suggestion, "Don''t rescue me!"


    "Kill Qiu Tu first!"


    "Take him out! Then kill that female agent in the living room and this agent beside me!"


    "They are the ones who know my identity."


    "If we don''t deal with them, even if you rescue me, it will be difficult for us to escape Xinjie City!"


    "Moreover, after killing Qiu Tu, it should be easier to save me."


    Hearing Old Master Qin''s strategy, Lone Wolf fell silent for a moment, "Attacking Wei to save Zhao is indeed a good idea."


    "Once I assassinate Qiu Tu, the two agents in the living room may be lured away or thrown into disarray, making them easier to deal with at that point."


    After speaking, he said, "Then Old Qin, wait for me, after I kill Qiu Tu, I''ll come back to rescue you!"


    Having finished the conversation, Lone Wolf tugged gently at the transparent thread.


    The thread was pulled out from Old Master Qin''s heart.


    After a few tugs, he drew the thread back in front of him.


    Lone Wolf unwound the thread from his finger, and in the next second, the thread self-ignited without wind, turning into specks of ash.


    Seeing this, Lone Wolf carefully closed the silver box and solemnly put it back in his pocket, then confidently made his way toward the villa entrance with a rifle on his back.


    With his stealth, Invisibility Class cataclysmic ability, he was the king of assassins walking through the darkness.

 Chapter 168 - 139: Turning the Tide! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)_2

    After all, unless one is a High Order Catastrophist, within a meter, a rifle shot to the head means death for anyone¡­


    ¡­


    Meanwhile,


    Qiu Tu had also arrived at the entrance of the villa with Liu Fuping, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and other confidants.


    At this time, three groups of agents had already retreated to the entrance of the villa, holding their pistols with pale faces, hiding by the door, and cautiously observing the outside.


    At the main entrance of the villa, seventeen or eighteen United Front members, wearing black knitted balaclava hats and worn tactical vests pieced together, were divided into two teams, taking turns shooting at the villa entrance under the cover of barricades.


    The three scantily clad women Old Master Qin had invited today had already died in the first wave of the attack, sprawled in pools of blood.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly grabbed an agent he knew well and asked with a serious face, "Li Xian, what the hell happened? How did the United Front get here?"


    The agent named Li Xian was obviously terrified as well. Suppressing his racing heart, he looked at Qiu Tu and said with effort, "Chief... Chief, I don''t know."


    "We were originally following Captain Cao''s orders to be on guard in all four directions."


    "Then, suddenly, a group of United Front members emerged from the roadside and started shooting at us without saying a word."


    "Old Wang was killed on the spot, and I was injured. I could only run desperately towards the villa."


    "When the other three groups heard the gunshots, they also hurried over to support us. Then we retreated back into the villa."


    At this point, Li Xian even showed his injured right abdomen, which was bloody and had stuck to his uniform.


    On seeing this, Qiu Tu, with a grave expression, patted Li Xian''s shoulder, "You guys have had it tough."


    He paused then continued, "Since you''re injured now, go inside the villa, find some alcohol to disinfect the wound, and bandage it up. We''ve got this."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Li Xian quickly replied, "No problem, Chief. I can hold on!"


    "Now, the enemy outnumbers us, and we don''t know if they have reinforcements. Having one more person to fight means we can hold on a bit longer."


    Listening to Li Xian''s words and seeing his resolute and genuine gaze, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered slightly as he patted Li Xian''s shoulder firmly, "Good!"


    While peeking out to observe the enemy''s situation, he arranged, "Little Liu, count our people. See if everyone has gotten inside the villa."


    "Sister Liu, call the bureau and ask for reinforcements."


    "Huo Yan, find some alcohol to disinfect Li Xian''s wound and bandage it up."


    After a few rapid instructions, the agents at the villa entrance started moving like they had found their backbone.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu squeezed into a small room facing the outside of the villa and cautiously peered out to observe the situation.


    This time the Anti-government Armed Forces had clearly come prepared.


    They were all fully equipped, with handguns, and even two or three of them had rifles in their hands.


    Qiu Tu made a quick count, there were 17 in the front. Assuming there was at least a group of two from the other three directions, that made 23 people.


    This was nearly double the number of men on Qiu Tu''s side.


    And compared to the United Front members Qiu Tu had last seen, who fired their guns wildly and haphazardly, these members were obviously much more professional.


    Not only did they divide into two groups for alternating fire and suppression, they also used cover to steadily advance, clearly leaving no chance for Qiu Tu and the others to turn the tables!


    So, just in the short minute that Qiu Tu had been giving orders, the United Front members had already advanced to just three meters from the villa''s door.


    One more dash, and they would be up against the villa''s outer walls!


    Keep in mind that this villa was not any sort of military establishment. It didn''t even have security measures, meaning there were too many windows and doors for the attackers to enter directly into the villa.


    Once that happened, without the advantage of the terrain, the chances of victory for Qiu Tu and his people would grow even slimmer!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu knew he couldn''t let the situation deteriorate any further!


    But... how to deal with these invaders?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu involuntarily started to rapidly ponder over the few Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic Creatures in his possession.


    The Seal of ownership, Lucky Joker Card, Cataclysmic Awakening Potion, Mandragora Love Drug, Silver Key Beehive, Trigger Paper Figure...


    As he inventoried the Cataclysmic treasures he could use, Qiu Tu realized that the rewards he had obtained lately were all auxiliary defense relics. He didn''t have a single treasure that could be used for attack!


    The only thing he was grateful for was that he hadn''t rashly used his Cataclysmic ability "Order Space" to interrogate Old Master Qin.


    It gave him a bit more confidence.


    With "Order Space" and the "Trigger Paper Figure," even if he couldn''t repel the enemy, he could still retreat unharmed.


    It''s just... by that time, the confidants he had painstakingly cultivated, including the recently acquired Old Master Qin, might not be able to take many with him.


    After all... The maximum reach of "Order Space" was only two meters. Facing the current mid-range gunfight, it had practically no effect, serving only for self-preservation and escape.


    This made him quite unwilling!


    Thinking this way, his brows furrowed tightly as he continued to contemplate a way to break through...


    He had been deep in thought for just two seconds.


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up.


    Wait a second! A gunfight...?


    When this keyword surfaced, Qiu Tu seemed to have thought of something, his eyes gradually beginning to shine!


    If... that was the case, perhaps, he had a chance to take on these thugs!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu quickly went to the corridor and called over Liu Fuping, who had just finished on the phone, and another agent, "Sister Liu, Jiao Ming, come with me!"


    Although Liu Fuping and Jiao Ming didn''t understand what Qiu Tu meant, they followed him back to the room out of trust for Qiu Tu.


    Amidst the intense gunfire, all the glass in the front rooms of the villa shattered, a breeze blowing the smoke into the room, filling their nostrils with the scents of gunpowder and sulfur.


    But Qiu Tu seemed as if he hadn''t smelled it at all; he took a gun from Liu Fuping, held dual pistols, crouched down, and then... activated his Cataclysmic ability "Order Space"!


    With the activation of "Order Space," Qiu Tu also set the rule for today''s "Order Space":


    "Within Order Space, my pistol shooting level will reach the highest level attainable by me personally!"


    As the rule was established, Qiu Tu raised his head to look outside the villa.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu felt as if the pistols in his hands were part of his arms, intimately familiar.


    He knew their weight, details, and textures as if they were brand new.


    And as he raised the pistol and aimed outside, in Qiu Tu''s eyes, it was as if there were faint white dashed lines, allowing him to easily track the bullet trajectories!


    Already possessing a high talent for shooting, coupled with the powers bestowed by his Cataclysmic ability, he was like aided by God.


    His expressionless face adjusted the aim of the gun slightly, targeting the leader of the Anti-government Armed Forces who was just about to sprint out from cover, then... with an indifferent gaze, he pulled the trigger!


    The next second, flames flickered, gunpowder ignited!


    A bullet fiercely flew out from the muzzle of Qiu Tu''s gun, then instantly crossed several meters, drilling directly into the forehead of the leader who was charging forward! S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There was a muffled "bang!"


    A red dot appeared on the leader''s forehead. With an incredulous expression on his face, his body still poised to sprint!


    Then... with a "thump," he fell to the ground!


    For a moment, the scene seemed to fall silent.


    But Qiu Tu did not stop his actions!


    -----


    Today is still a 10,000-word update. The 3rd chapter will be updated around 19:00! Asking for Monthly Tickets! Asking for subscriptions!

 Chapter 169 - 140: Crazy Massacre! (10,000 Characters Please Subscribe!)

    At that moment, he was like a ruthless killing machine, adjusting the aim, confirming the shooting trajectory, and pulling the trigger!


    "Bang!" "Bang!" "Bang!"


    At this time, Qiu Tu was like the Grim Reaper himself, each shot claiming a vibrant life!


    At this juncture, not to mention the United Front members outside the villa, even Liu Fuping and Jiao Ming inside the house were stunned.


    Xinjie City had just been established, with much to be done, and the agents of the Investigation Bureau had hardly undergone much training.


    Especially in departments like the Political Department, which dealt with espionage and counter-espionage and rarely needed to go into battle, seeing such skilled marksmanship was indeed unusual.


    So, at that moment, they were all too shocked to speak!


    Just then, while they were still in shock, Qiu Tu suddenly threw the gun in his hands to the other two, snatched the gun from Jiao Ming''s hand, and said coldly, "Reload!"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu, holding a single gun, aimed outside the window and once again began firing with a "bang bang bang!"


    Qiu Tu''s natural talent for shooting was not lacking, and in his previous life, he had undergone some training, but now, with the enhancement of his Cataclysmic ability, he truly had the strength of a tiger with added wings!


    He felt like he was a special agent in some movie, on an unstoppable killing spree, with every bullet finding its enemy!


    At this time, the members of the United Front outside the villa were utterly dumbfounded.


    Their attack had been thoroughly planned. Not only had they discussed combat strategies but also as they advanced, they didn''t act rashly, taking cover behind various shelters and moving forward under the covering fire.


    Therefore, aside from the first few United Front members Qiu Tu killed who had no cover, the rest he took down were hiding behind cover, merely poking their heads out a little!


    Even then, they couldn''t escape Qiu Tu''s bullets!


    Moreover... what was even more fatal was that Qiu Tu''s shots hit their foreheads, killing with each bullet!


    If this world had any online games, those United Front members would surely be yelling that Qiu Tu was cheating, and that he was using an aimbot!


    Regardless, Qiu Tu''s counterattack had them thoroughly bewildered.


    Especially when Qiu Tu, wielding dual guns, took down five or six United Front members with shots just above their covers, making them too scared to even move, let alone return fire.


    Thus, for a time, Qiu Tu alone managed to suppress the firepower of over a dozen men!


    At this point, Qiu Tu began to feel it. Relying on the protection of his "Trigger Dummy," he stood upright and shouted to the outside, "Come on! I''m right here!"


    "If you dare, shoot me!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrogant shouts, indeed, someone couldn''t help but stick out their head, intending to shoot Qiu Tu twice!


    But as soon as they did, a "bang!" echoed from a gunshot.


    The next second, a sharp pain spread rapidly from his forehead through his entire body! sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The following second, he fell to the ground, losing consciousness completely!


    Qiu Tu''s astonishing marksmanship truly terrified the United Front members. Seeing that fearless member struck dead by Qiu Tu, they were even more afraid to make a move.


    But while they dared not move, Qiu Tu did!


    Qiu Tu turned to Jiao Ming and instructed, "Lead the brothers out! Don''t worry, I''ll provide cover fire!"


    If anyone had told Jiao Ming before today that one person would provide cover fire for them, Jiao Ming would probably have thought the person was crazy!


    But having witnessed Qiu Tu''s extraordinary shooting, having seen how he suppressed the firepower of more than a dozen men with deadly accuracy, there was only one thought in Jiao Ming''s mind: Just do it!


    With that thought, he sprinted out of the room, leading the equally astonished agents in a charge!


    As agents of the Political Department, everyone there was usually too proud to accept defeat. But today, they had nearly been annihilated by a group of anti-government armed forces, and they were already furious.


    However, disadvantaged in numbers, they could only hide in the villa, waiting for their fate to be sealed.


    Now that Qiu Tu had managed to scatter the opposition with his one-man effort, their earlier frustration and anger transformed into a strong desire to fight!


    As a result, almost without needing Qiu Tu''s cover, these agents charged into the covers of the United Front members, and after a few minor skirmishes, they subdued the entire enemy group!


    Thus, the battle ended in just a few short minutes.


    On Qiu Tu''s side, one dead and five wounded. Aside from the agent who was initially killed by stray bullets, there were no further deaths, and the five injured were only lightly wounded.


    One even got injured simply because... he ran too fast and sprained his ankle.


    The United Front had 22 members, nine killed by Qiu Tu, two more shot dead in the melee by the agents, and all the rest captured alive!


    Such a glorious record made Liu Fuping smile so wide her mouth couldn''t close, and she took the initiative to go out and help.


    Seeing that the battle was finally over, Qiu Tu also let out a sigh of relief.


    He took a deep breath, withdrew his gaze, then turned around intending to check on Old Master Qin.


    But at that moment,


    He suddenly froze.


    Because... right in his line of sight, a sneaky shadow slowly appeared in his "Order Space"...


    The scene was exceedingly eerie: first a foot slowly emerged on the edge of the "Order Space," followed by a man''s leg, and then a man''s torso and head.


    Until the very end, the dark shadow fully appeared in front of Qiu Tu.


    It was a middle-aged man who looked to be in his thirties, with thick, disorderly hair that merged with his stubble, all unkempt.


    He wore protective goggles, carried a grass-green backpack on his back, and held a rifle in his hands; then... just a meter away from Qiu Tu, he carefully aimed the rifle''s muzzle at Qiu Tu''s head, his index finger on the trigger, seemingly ready to shoot...


    Qiu Tu: .....


    He swiftly lifted his gun and aimed at the middle-aged man''s forehead, and "Bang!" he fired a shot!


    With the boost from the Order Space, the bullet accurately penetrated the middle-aged man''s forehead, bringing up a spray of fresh blood!


    The middle-aged man wore a look of disbelief on his face, his eyes wide open, staring at Qiu Tu as if questioning how Qiu Tu could see him!


    Qiu Tu: .....


    This guy is an idiot!


    Thought he was invisible, did he!? To attempt such a brazen assassination on me!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu "Eh?" uttered in surprise.


    Right... Didn''t this person seem to slowly appear just now?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced at the middle-aged man who had died with his eyes open, then at the Order Space surrounding him, and his face lit up with realization.


    Oh... This person was really invisible!


    He probably moved so carefully and with such small gestures because he was invisible and afraid of making any noise.


    And it was because of his invisibility that he was so brazenly able to sneak up beside me and aim a gun at me from close range!


    Unfortunately for him, he didn''t know that the entire small room was within the range of my Order Space.


    Perhaps since my Order Space is a domain-type ability, and it repels other cataclysmic powers, his ability failed, causing him to reveal his form?


    At this realization, Qiu Tu was caught between laughter and tears for a moment.


    He was so lost in the killing earlier that he hadn''t paid much attention, and, unexpectedly, he had casually eliminated a Cataclysmic?


    This must be the most frustrated death a Cataclysmic has ever suffered, right?


    Bizarrely, Qiu Tu felt a hint of the absurdity one might experience in reality!


    Who would have thought a Cataclysmic''s entrance could end so simply, while those ordinary United Front members had made him rack his brains.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also dragged the Cataclysmic''s body aside, checking the things that the man had been carrying.


    A dagger, a slightly odd little box, a somewhat old-fashioned looking coin, and a dozen or so Silver Yuans.


    At first glance, none of them were worth much money.


    Qiu Tu curled his lip, dragging the body of this penniless dead man to one side, and picked up his rifle, preparing to go to the living room to check on Old Master Qin.


    No sooner had he taken a step, did the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision start to slowly rotate.


    In a moment, the hourglass of "Danger in the Dark," which would have ended in one day, slowly turned into a bouncing treasure chest.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes swept over the little chest, and he formed a conjecture: it seems... these opponents were likely considered a "danger" that could potentially pose a threat to my life by the Crisis Countdown.


    Hence, having dealt with them ahead of time, the Crisis Countdown disappeared as well.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t immediately check the rewards that exploded out of the treasure chest, but instead made his way toward the living room.


    By now, the gunfight outside had concluded. Liu Fuping, Jiao Ming, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan and the others were all leading the captured United Front members back into the villa, one by one.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, fear filled the eyes of the United Front thugs, whereas Jiao Ming, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and the others looked at him with respect and eagerness.


    No one does not love the person who saves them at a crisis, nor does anyone not respect a superior who can lead their subordinates to turn the tide and claim victory.


    [Jiao Ming''s loyalty +32]


    [Liu Fuping''s loyalty +28]


    [Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, Ding Xiaoliu, Shi Zhang, Su Yun... loyalty +21]


    Viewing the rise in loyalty of his confidants "swish swish swish" due to the gun battle, and seeing the obvious change in their expressions, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded.


    He stepped into the living room, where Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao were still vigilantly on guard.


    As for Old Master Qin, he sat nonchalantly on the stair steps, his hands cuffed to the stair railing, completely unaffected by the gunfire.


    When Qiu Tu came in, Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao quickly greeted him, "Chief!"


    And Cao Dabiao, more impulsive in nature, immediately followed up with the question, "Chief, has the gunfight outside ended?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, just about to offer an explanation.


    But just then, suddenly a "clattering" noise of metal friction sounded.


    Qiu Tu reflexively looked over, then saw Old Master Qin, his face showing surprise, looking at the rifle that Qiu Tu had just gathered from the dead Cataclysmic. Perhaps due to the excitement, the handcuffs rubbed against the railing...


    ------


    Today is still 10,000 words. Chapter 3 will be updated around 19:00! Requesting Monthly Tickets! Requesting subscriptions!

 Chapter 170 - 141: Shooting Old Master Qin (10,000-Word Plea for Subscription!)

    ```


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s unusual gaze, Old Master Qin also realized his own lapse and quickly returned his expression to one of complete calm, as if nothing had happened.


    It was no wonder he couldn''t maintain his composure.


    Mainly because... Lone Wolf was a Cataclysmic, and a Cataclysmic whose Catastrophe Power was perfectly suited for assassination!


    His Cataclysmic ability, "Shadow Stealth," was an extremely terrifying power.


    It not only allowed him to become completely invisible while moving through shadows, masking his presence, but also enabled him to make the objects he touched become invisible as well.


    This made his Cataclysmic ability incredibly versatile.


    Whether it was for assassination, theft, or investigation, it played a significant role.


    Since investing a hefty sum to cultivate Lone Wolf, Old Master Qin had arranged for him to carry out many tasks over the years.


    Every time, Lone Wolf returned unscathed and undefeated. Whether it was ordinary officials or businessmen, let alone Cataclysmics, there were no fewer than seven or eight who had died at his hands.


    It could be said that Lone Wolf was the ace up Old Master Qin''s sleeve.


    So when Lone Wolf was preparing to strike at Qiu Tu, Old Master Qin had already written Qiu Tu off as a dead man.


    Now, Qiu Tu had returned unharmed, while Lone Wolf had vanished without a trace. That was why Old Master Qin was somewhat out of sorts, which led to the action that caught Qiu Tu''s attention just now...


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also noticed Old Master Qin''s abnormal behavior.


    Even though Old Master Qin''s expression and movements had returned to normal, Qiu Tu still keenly detected something amiss.


    He glanced at the rifle in his hand, pondered for a moment, then smiled at the feigned calm Old Master Qin and said, "It seems... the gunman who tried to assassinate me was one of your men, Old Master."


    Upon hearing this, Old Master Qin chuckled and denied it, "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    Qiu Tu didn''t care, he gestured to Cao Dabiao and instructed, "Go to the entrance hall and drag the gunman''s body over here."


    Cao Dabiao took the order, "Yes!"


    Before long, the body of Lone Wolf was dragged into the living room by Cao Dabiao.


    By this time, even though there was no change in Old Master Qin''s facial expression at the sight of Lone Wolf''s body, his heart was set off like a tempest.


    If before, upon seeing the rifle, Old Master Qin could still deceive himself that Lone Wolf had escaped or carelessly dropped his weapon, but... now, seeing Lone Wolf''s body, he could no longer fool himself.


    Lone Wolf was truly dead!


    Dead at the hands of this young Section Chief before him!


    How could this be possible?


    One question after another swirled in Old Master Qin''s mind.


    Before he could sort out his thoughts, a loud "bang!" jerked his thoughts back to reality!


    Old Master Qin looked towards Qiu Tu, who had fired the shot in horror.


    Then he saw Qiu Tu aiming the rifle at a cabinet, having just shattered a glazed polychrome Monthly Ticket porcelain vase on it!


    At this moment, seeing Old Master Qin''s gaze turning towards him, Qiu Tu slowly turned the rifle''s muzzle in Old Master Qin''s direction.


    Looking at the smoking barrel, chilling Old Master Qin to the bone, a loud alarm sounded in his mind at that very moment!


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu aimed the rifle''s sights at Old Master Qin, he jokingly said, "Don''t be afraid, Old Master, that shot was just a fluke. Actually... my marksmanship is pretty mediocre, and I''ve never used a rifle before."


    "So... how many shots do you think it''ll take for me to hit you?"


    In that instant, Old Master Qin''s forehead was slick with sweat.


    Trying to laugh it off, he said, "Chief Qiu, you always like to joke like this."


    Qiu Tu laughed along with a "haha" and then said, "I do enjoy a good joke."


    "But I... don''t like people who always beat around the bush with me."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s face turned cold, and then he said, "So, tell me, Old Master. Do you choose to spill all the information, or choose... death?"


    Old Master Qin felt sweat streaming down his cheeks, and with difficulty said, "What information?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes were dark as ink as he asked, "What is ''God''? How do you know Him?"


    "Are you a Cataclysmic, possessing some kind of abilities?"


    "What bargain did you strike with ''God''?"


    "Does He have other followers in Xinjie City? What are His aims?"


    Just now, Qiu Tu had killed ten people, so when his killing intent boiled over, an eerie aura instantly filled the living room.


    Thus, Old Master Qin had no doubt that Qiu Tu would truly pull the trigger!


    So, staring at Qiu Tu''s dark muzzle and feeling the undisguised intent to kill, Old Master Qin''s complexion continuously shifted, as if weighing the pros and cons...


    After a moment, he inquired, "If I answer your questions, will you spare me?"


    Qiu Tu said expressionlessly, "Of course. I am a man of my word and never lie to anyone."


    Upon hearing this, Old Master Qin''s face went through several changes, then, as if making up his mind, he looked at Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng and said to Qiu Tu, "Let them leave. I''ll talk about ''God''s'' secrets only with you."


    ```


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, still holding his gun, slightly nodded his head towards Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, signaling, "You two, guard the door." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing his words, both looked at Qiu Tu with a hint of worry, obviously concerned that Old Master Qin might have other tricks up his sleeve. But seeing the firm look in Qiu Tu''s eyes, they eventually walked out of the living room in silence and closed the door from the outside¡­.


    After the two had left, Qiu Tu continued to aim his gun at Old Master Qin and said expressionlessly, "Speak, reveal your secret with ''God''¡­."


    ¡­....


    Meanwhile, while Qiu Tu was extorting information from Old Master Qin at gunpoint,


    Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng were quietly chatting outside the door.


    Leaning against the wall with a cigarette, Cao Dabiao squinted as he smoked and asked, "Chen Feng, do you know what I saw just now when I went out?"


    Chen Feng, with a cold face and standing guard at the door, casually asked, "What did you see?"


    Cao Dabiao replied, "I saw bodies everywhere, more than a dozen, all members of the United Front."


    Ever since Qiu Tu entered the living room, Chen Feng had guessed that their own side had won the battle.


    To win a gunfight, casualties were inevitable, so he indifferently responded, "So what?"


    Cao Dabiao squinted his eyes as he took a deep drag, "But they were all shot in the forehead, a kill with one shot."


    Chen Feng paused for a moment.


    Leaning against the wall, Cao Dabiao looked down and flicked the ashes off his cigarette, then continued, "....According to Little Liu, our officer killed all those people single-handedly."


    Chen Feng''s pupils slightly constricted.


    Cao Dabiao''s hand trembled slightly, "And... all within twenty or so seconds."


    Chen Feng abruptly turned to Cao Dabiao.


    Feeling Chen Feng''s gaze, Cao Dabiao took a deep drag on his cigarette and exhaled heavily before he chuckled bitterly and asked, "Do you think... the times have changed?"


    He leaned back his head, somewhat melancholic, and said, "''God''... ''Catastrophe Power''... ''Cataclysmic treasures''... ''Curse''...."


    "Although I was not in the living room earlier, I participated in the previous interrogation."


    "From the brief remarks of the Chief and those traffickers, I guessed that it seems to be a world completely different from our understanding."


    "What exactly is that world like?"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Chen Feng also fell silent.


    After a moment, he slowly said, "Since the Chief deliberately let us encounter these cases, he clearly wishes to prepare us with a certain awareness before gradually leading us into that world."


    "I think, as long as we closely follow the Chief''s footsteps, we will definitely reach that new world."


    "Perhaps... by then, we could also possess those kinds of miraculous powers."


    Despite saying this, the usually composed Chen Feng couldn''t help but grip his hands tightly....


    Twenty or so seconds, to slaughter over a dozen people....


    It was truly a dimension-reducing strike from a "Higher Being."


    Is the gap between Cataclysmics and ordinary people truly that vast?


    Previously, due to the unclear distinction between Cataclysmics and ordinary people, Chen Feng, though curious about the world of Cataclysmics, did not have much longing.


    But now, after learning about Qiu Tu''s battle achievements and Old Master Qin''s "Immortality" miracle, his heart was no longer indifferent....


    At this moment, while Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng were discussing Cataclysmics,


    Suddenly, "Bang! Bang! Bang!"


    Three loud gunshots echoed throughout the entire villa!


    Both men jolted, reflexively looking towards the direction of the living room. Chen Feng took a quick step towards the door to open it, while Cao Dabiao quickly snuffed out his cigarette and followed!


    Just as both of them reached for the doorknob, the door to the villa''s living room was opened from the inside. Qiu Tu wiped his hands with an indifferent look, using a white handkerchief as he sandwiched the Communicator between his shoulder and cheek, speaking on the phone,


    "Shuman, I''ve shared the intelligence on ''God'' with you. I also told you the leads. Don''t delay, start your control operations right now."


    "This is not a minor issue. If it blows up, it would be a huge scandal, no matter for your Security Department or for our Investigation Bureau."


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao promptly stood at attention, saluting.


    Having finished saluting, and as if they just realized something, they carefully shifted their gaze, peering through the wide-open door.


    Then... they saw Old Master Qin, who had been chained to the staircase, now lying in a pool of blood with three bullet wounds, lifeless.


    And the assault rifle, somehow, had been placed back into the hands of the man Cao Dabiao had dragged in....


    Perhaps sensing their gaze, Qiu Tu seemed to recall something and "Oh"ed, and then he put down the Communicator and calmly said to them, "By the way. Just now, a gunman entered through the back door and shot Qin Cheng, Qin Wuyi."


    "When I witnessed this, I drew my gun and killed the gunman."


    "Go and take care of the scene."


    After speaking, he went back to making his phone calls with the Communicator....


    -----


    Chapter with 10,000 words, continuing the daily 10k tonight! Calling for Monthly Tickets, calling for subscriptions!

 Chapter 171 - 142: Qin Shuman: Im Poisonous, You Know~ (12,000 words 1/3)

    Meanwhile, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao glanced at Qiu Tu''s receding figure, then back at the two corpses inside the house, feeling their hearts chill.


    At this moment, they seemed to recall Qiu Tu''s decisive killings of enemies and his manipulation of people''s hearts, his capability to control circumstances as easy as turning his hand over.


    ''Our commander, even if he''s not a Cataclysmic, is no simple character.''


    Thinking this way, the two exchanged glances, promptly followed Qiu Tu''s arrangement and went into the house to deal with the scene.


    Actually, Qiu Tu had already thought about the aftermath and his explanation when he shot Old Master Qin, so the two did not need to consider anything else, needing only to follow Qiu Tu''s plan and restore the scene.


    Thus, quickly, a murder scene was reconstructed.


    After arranging the scene, standing in the spacious villa hall and looking around, the once splendid living room was now shattered and scarred, with the original owner of the villa laying in a puddle of blood, devoid of life. Added to the pervasive smell of blood inside and outside the villa, it indeed felt as if they were in a completely different world.


    After surveying the hall and looking at the busy agents outside the window, Cao Dabiao thought for a moment, then whispered to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng, the reinforcements from the department should arrive soon. Do you think... we should silence the others first?"


    The matter of Qiu Tu shooting Old Master Qin was known only to Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, so clearly, Cao Dabiao wasn''t referring to this incident but rather... the incident where Qiu Tu shot and killed over a dozen United Front members in about twenty seconds.


    Hence, upon hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Chen Feng also felt a bit hesitant.


    But after struggling internally for two seconds, he ultimately nodded and said, "We should indeed silence them."


    "I guess the commander doesn''t want this matter to become a sensation either."


    With that, he paused, "Otherwise... the commander wouldn''t have switched to three different guns to kill the enemy."


    Upon hearing Chen Feng''s words, Cao Dabiao''s face suddenly showed a look of realization, "Yeah! You''re right!"


    After agreeing, both of them paused, then involuntarily looked at each other, reading shock in each other''s eyes.


    Their commander really was the type to plan three steps ahead.


    Before, when Cao Dabiao had moved the middle-aged man''s corpse and while holding the rifle, he had already figured out how Old Master Qin would die.


    And now it seemed... he probably had also figured out his alibi while he was shooting his enemies.


    ''It''s really scary....''


    ''Is this the difference between a monster and an ordinary person?''


    Thinking this, they dared not speculate on Qiu Tu''s thoughts further and quickly began to gather agents to start the cover-up.


    As for the surviving United Front members, were they likely to leak information?


    The two weren''t worried.


    Not to mention the crimes these United Front members had committed, and their insignificant status at the bottom, made it highly probable they would be executed on the spot, with no chance to divulge anything.


    And even if they weren''t executed on the spot and were taken back to the Political Department for interrogation... don''t forget, the Interrogation Section was Qiu Tu''s turf....


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qin Shuman was also discussing this issue with Qiu Tu, "You used your Cataclysmic ability in front of so many people, aren''t you afraid Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and the others will find out?"


    However, Qiu Tu just laughed and said nonchalantly, "It''s time they knew too."


    "Pieces have their own value, after all. The higher the value, the more you''re regarded, right?"


    Upon hearing these words, Qin Shuman realized that Qiu Tu had already considered all the consequences before using his power.


    So she didn''t press further, trusting him, and shifted the conversation back to the case at hand.


    "To be honest, if you hadn''t provided the information, we would never have guessed that ''Qin Heng'' was actually not Qin Heng but Old Master Qin, and that he had two bodies."


    "No wonder he was so composed all the time during our rotational interrogations."


    "We had speculated that Qin Heng had received professional training and was accustomed to these interrogations."


    "Turns out, he was actually enjoying his time with his other body while we were interrogating him."


    At this point, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but laugh bitterly, "And he didn''t just enjoy himself with one, but three! Unbelievable!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu seemed to see in his mind the scene of Qin Shuman and the Security Department members increasing the interrogation intensity, while "Qin Heng" appeared relaxed and unconcerned...


    After all, how could he not feel blissful while frolicking with three girls?


    So they must have been completely baffled at the time, suspecting "Qin Heng" was a masochist...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh as well. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After the laughter, Qin Shuman returned to serious matters, saying, "But now that you''ve destroyed his other body, he''ll soon break down."


    "Once the interrogation is over, I''ll give you a copy of his record."


    "As for the parts about ''God'', they might involve secrets I can''t give you in writing, so I''ll tell you personally when we meet someday," she said.


    Qiu Tu grunted in acknowledgment, smoothly replying, "Then... I look forward to the day we meet."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman let out a soft laugh, her voice tender as she teased, "Is that all you''re looking forward to about meeting me?"


    Qiu Tu laughed as well, saying, "Of course, I''m also looking forward to..."


    "Having a few drinks with you."


    A simple phrase split into two, suddenly infused with a suggestive undertone.


    On the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman chuckled lightly, playfully retorted, "That definitely won''t do."

 Chapter 172 - 142: Qin Shuman: Im Poisonous, You Know~ (12,000 words 2/3)

    Qiu Tu, "Why?"


    Qin Shuman''s voice was a bit muffled as she drew out her words, "Because... my drink is poisoned."


    Qiu Tu was puzzled, "Poisoned?"


    Qin Shuman, "Yes. Drinking it can cause addiction."


    Qiu Tu laughed, "I''m not afraid."


    Qin Shuman laughed even more joyfully, "But I am."


    Qiu Tu, "You''re afraid?"


    With a seductive tone, Qin Shuman "Hmm~" and said, "I''m afraid... that you won''t be able to handle it in the end."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s teasing words, Qiu Tu could no longer suppress a smile, "Then it seems... I must try it."


    After finishing, he added another sentence, "By the way, you''re talking about drinking, right?"


    "Giggle giggle giggle." At this point, Qin Shuman couldn''t stop laughing.


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s happy laughter, Qiu Tu also smiled, then he teasingly said, "Alright, bring on whatever tricks you have, as long as it''s yours... I''ll take it all."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s candid love talk, Qin Shuman on the other end of the phone laughed even louder...


    After a brief chat, Qin Shuman hung up the phone somewhat reluctantly. Then, holding the communicator and smiling at the corner of her mouth, she gazed out the window at the scenery, slightly lost in thought...


    And so she stared for three to four seconds.


    Suddenly, a strange coughing sound came from behind her, "Cough cough..."


    Qin Shuman startled, then turned around to look. She saw her subordinate, Lin Zuo, standing in front of her desk with a lifeless expression on his face.


    Qin Shuman felt taken aback and hesitated before asking, "When did you come in?"


    Lin Zuo, "Since the part about your drink being poisoned."


    He paused, then asked expressionlessly, "Is Chief really planning to poison Qiu Tu?"


    "I have a bottle of poison here that will kill him instantly if he drinks it, do you want to borrow it?"


    "Or... you could pour it down my throat instead."


    This dog food, Lin Zuo has really had enough of it.


    This time it was Qin Shuman who coughed. She "cough coughed" twice, then promptly changed the subject, "Don''t talk about personal matters while working! Hmm... I called you here because there''s a task for you..."


    "Qiu Tu provided a clue. He said there''s a man who likes to wear a clown mask and has red hair..."


    As Qin Shuman started talking business, Lin Zuo''s expressionless face gradually became serious...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    After finishing his call with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu returned to his villa to handle the aftermath.


    Perhaps because his heroics today had greatly boosted loyalty, the loyalty level of these detectives generally reached about 70-80, so they all looked at Qiu Tu with fervent gazes.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t sit idle. He struck while the iron was hot, stopping to show concern for each detective, ensuring the newly elevated loyalty levels were secured.


    Like this, ten minutes passed.


    Not long after winning people''s hearts, several T-model cars loaded with detectives came from the distance, kicking up dust as they sped over!


    And behind the cars, more temporary detectives were running, heading towards the villa as well.


    Upon reaching the villa''s gate, the T-model cars screeched to a stop. Then a squad of detectives jumped out and started setting up a perimeter tensely at the villa''s entrance.


    Clearly... these were the reinforcements Qiu Tu had asked Liu Fuping to call for.


    The only pity was... like the unwritten rule in countless dramas: reinforcements always arrive leisurely after the enemy has been vanquished.


    By this time, the squad of detectives also seemed to realize they were too late, so after hesitating for a moment, they sent a tall, thin detective into the villa to check the situation.


    Once inside the villa, the tall, slender detective had barely taken two steps forward when Ding Xiaoliu and Jiao Ming, who were on guard at the door, stepped forward and stopped him. "Political Department handling the case! Which department are you from?"


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s words, the detective quickly said with an embarrassed smile, "Hello, officer, we are detectives from the Xiafang Street Public Security Office. We received orders from the Bureau to come and assist."


    After speaking, he scanned the scene, then cautiously asked, "May I ask... have we arrived too late?"


    Hearing the detective''s words, Ding Xiaoliu and Jiao Ming exchanged a glance, then Ding Xiaoliu said proudly, "You are indeed late. The enemy has been completely annihilated by us."


    After that, he added, "Have your superior come to meet our Chief."


    "Yes!" The detective saluted, then turned and left the villa.


    Actually, both Ding Xiaoliu and Jiao Ming were Third-Level Detectives, holding the same rank as the detective before them.


    However... as the ace department of the Investigation Bureau, with internal supervision powers, the Political Department has always been considered half a rank higher than other departments.


    So, let alone being Third-Level Detectives, even the Deputy Staff from other departments had to rank half a step below the Political Department''s Deputy Staff...


    Not long after the detective left the villa, a stout figure in uniform, round in shape with the look of a superior officer on his face, followed him inside.


    The fat man had clearly rushed over upon receiving orders, his face covered in sweat, looking somewhat disheveled.


    And judging from his shoulder insignia with one bar and two flowers, he should be the head of the Public Security Office, ranking one level higher than Qiu Tu, making him a bonafide Chief.


    Upon arriving at the villa, the fat man with eyes as small as green beans glanced around the bloodstained scene, then his sharp gaze landed on Qiu Tu, who was inspecting Li Xian''s injuries...


    That moment, his eyes lit up, and he rushed over with his short legs, offering a greasy smile as he extended his hand first, "Chief Qiu, hello, hello. My name is Cui Daren, I am the Director of the Xiafang Street Public Security Bureau."


    Hearing his eager introduction, Qiu Tu sensed something was off. He stood up and instead of rashly shaking the Chief''s hand, he first inquired, "Director Cui knows me?"


    Cui Daren wiped the sweat from his forehead and said with a chuckle, "Chief Qiu, you must be joking, how could I possibly not know you. I am one of your subordinates!"


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu looked at Cui Daren''s shoulder insignia, confirming he was a legitimate Chief.


    A Deputy Chief himself, even if it was from a special department like the Political Department, could at most present as half a rank higher to show off his authority in front of another Deputy Chief, how could he possibly be the superior of a bona fide Chief?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s puzzlement only deepened.


    At that moment, possibly seeing Qiu Tu''s confusion, Cui Daren explained with a smile, "Chief Qiu, you might be too important to remember."


    "Just yesterday, your Political Department approved our Public Security Bureau''s ''Joint Investigation Application,'' and then appointed you as the head of the ''8.16 Potion Robbery Case Investigation Team.''


    "From that moment on, all of us from the Xiafang Street Public Security Office, as well as the previous members of the investigation team, are temporarily under your leadership."


    "So, we are indeed your subordinates!"


    Cui Daren was clearly talkative, once he started speaking, he seemed unable to stop.


    He said, "Let me tell you, we''ve really been at our wits'' end lately, this case has been too difficult to crack, with no information or clues at all!"


    "So, we''ve been hoping and praying for an expert to come save us!"


    "Now that you''re here, we can rest easy!"


    Hearing Cui Daren''s words, Qiu Tu finally understood why the legitimate Chief before him was claiming to be his subordinate.


    Indeed, for the convenience of handling the case, within a ''Joint Investigation Team,'' the invited experts from dominant departments often serve as team leaders and have the highest command authority; other members serve as subordinates and follow their orders. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So... Cui Daren''s claim of being his subordinate was not incorrect.


    However... the ''Pharmacy Robbery Case''...


    Considering this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but view Cui Daren with a more complex expression...


    This case was not that simple...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but recall the intelligence he had just received from Old Master Qin...


    ----


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 characters each. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Subscribe!

 Chapter 173 - 143 Sanctuary Rewards (12,000 words 2/3)

    According to Old Master Qin''s statement,


    the "God" he worshipped, named "Larilo," was not some High Order Cataclysmic Creature, but a genuine deity.


    She possessed porcelain-like skin and a perfect figure, with a golden crown on her head and a white gauze draped over her body, enchanting and beautiful.


    The path of Cataclysm she practiced was: Reproduction.


    The reason Old Master Qin became her follower was also due to a coincidence.


    More than twenty years ago, after an unsatisfactory experience, Old Master Qin was extremely vexed and prayed that if only he could regain his vigor, he was willing to pay any price!


    As a result... that night, he dreamed of Larilo.


    In the dream, Larilo told him that she was the deity who governed Reproduction, and that all domains related to the continuation of life were under her control.


    Therefore, she could not only help Old Master Qin regain his vigor, but she could also enable him to return to his youth and achieve immortality.


    However, the price was that Old Master Qin must worship her and become her follower.


    At the time, Old Master Qin thought it was a fanciful dream born of his daytime thoughts, so he didn''t take it seriously and agreed right away.


    Who knew that the next day, Old Master Qin actually did regain his vigor! Not only did he have a long battle with his mistress, but he also left her wailing loudly!


    Just... this did not make Old Master Qin very happy. On the contrary... it filled him with immense fear.


    After all, if everything that happened in the dream was true, then it meant he might have made an irrevocable deal with a mysterious, unknown existence.


    Therefore, he began trying to figure out what exactly had happened.


    But in that era... humans hadn''t even given birth to Cataclysmics, nor had they developed Cataclysmic ability, so how could they understand what a "God" was?


    So, after failing to understand what had happened, Old Master Qin simply decided to cut his losses and enjoy the benefits that Larilo had brought him.


    During this time, he sometimes worried whether Larilo might be an Evil God, or if there was some kind of trap involved.


    But.... after living like this for two or three years without noticing anything unusual and with his body in good health, he eventually came to believe that the deity he worshipped was genuinely a "God."


    Thus, gradually, he became more devout.


    In the years that followed, Old Master Qin also repeatedly asked Larilo what she needed. If there was anything he, as a follower, could do....


    But Larilo''s response was always that she didn''t need anything. All she needed was for her follower to be "sexually" happy....


    This was also the reason Old Master Qin firmly believed that Larilo was a true God and worth his worship....


    As for the "immortality" deal Old Master Qin made with Larilo, it was also straightforward.


    After knowing Larilo for seven or eight years, as Old Master Qin''s age gradually increased, he also began to fear death. So he implored Larilo to slow his aging and grant him eternal life.


    This time, after a long period of contemplation, Larilo agreed but also set forth a condition.


    Larilo would grant Old Master Qin an immortal soul, as long as he continuously switched to bodies related to him by blood, he could achieve immortality!


    In return, Old Master Qin needed to use "Cloned Female Body" technology to cultivate a suitable female body for Larilo and to facilitate her descent into this world.


    This request was so straightforward that it took Old Master Qin by surprise.


    So, he agreed without hesitation.


    Thus, over the next ten-plus years, Old Master Qin, while cultivating bodies for himself and Larilo, aligned himself with the United Front to acquire resources and strive for development.


    Finally, after his relentless efforts, the Qin family became the leading great family in Xinjie City, and three years ago, his soul attained immortality and entered into Qin Heng and Qin Cheng''s bodies respectively. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One of these bodies continued to control the Qin family, while the other led a life of luxury, throwing lavish parties to accumulate power for him and Larilo.


    And at last, just over half a month ago, the body for Larilo was finally ready.


    Consequently, Old Master Qin arranged the Deity Descension Ceremony according to Larilo''s instructions to facilitate her descent!


    Only, on the day of the ceremony, no one knows what happened, but Old Master Qin lost consciousness after initiating the ritual, not waking up until the next day.


    By then, Larilo''s body had vanished without a trace.


    Afterward, when Old Master Qin tried to contact Larilo, he found himself unable to reach her....


    When Qiu Tu heard Old Master Qin''s story, he had only one thought: This old man is a damn fool, isn''t he!


    Even fools know "Those not of our kind must have a different heart"!


    And they are aware "There is no such thing as a free lunch"!


    Yet, he gullibly believed in an unknown, incoming "deity" and even dedicated more than a decade to preparing for her arrival in this world!


    In the end, he was ruthlessly abandoned by that deity!


    And most importantly... Qiu Tu suspected that the ceremony was likely a success.


    Because... the information about Larilo obtained from Old Master Qin matched certain scenes Qiu Tu had seen through the masked man in the suit and Wang Xi.


    In several of the memory fragments viewed by Qiu Tu, he noticed that both the masked man in the suit and Wang Xi also seemed to be practicing the path of "Reproduction" and "love born of heart."


    Moreover, just like Old Master Qin, he enjoyed throwing lavish silver parties.


    The world is so large, yet in the same city, during the same time period, the chance of encountering the same type of "God" is incredibly small. Therefore, Qiu Tu felt this was likely not a coincidence...


    ...but rather Larilo, having drained all value from Old Master Qin, decisively chose her next target...


    This was also the reason why Qiu Tu found the "Pharmacy Robbery Case" tricky.


    After all, if Qiu Tu''s deductions and guesses were true. Then... their investigative team''s enemy was probably not an ordinary person, not even a disaster sufferer, but a High Order catastrophized creature that had descended upon this world, whose purpose and hiding place were unknown...


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also collected his thoughts and then smiled as he shook hands with Cui Daren, "Director Cui is too kind. Let''s keep in touch, keep in touch..."


    ....


    With the intelligence provided by Qiu Tu, plus the "back road" being cut off.


    This time, Old Master Qin finally could not hold out.


    Under the intense interrogation by the Security Department, Old Master Qin detailed everything he had done over the years for the United Front, for Larilo.


    This included, of course, evidence and dirty secrets of the 33 officials arrested by the Security Department.


    Among these officials, some had unwittingly become accomplices of Old Master Qin without realizing the full situation; others had knowingly stood with Old Master Qin, providing intelligence and support to the United Front...


    The purpose was to hedge bets and gain more benefits...


    With the confession and evidence provided by Old Master Qin, the chief offender, almost all the suspects quickly confessed their crimes.


    Thus... in just a few short hours, the entire "Yin Caimei Case" progressed rapidly and was thoroughly solved!


    To avoid prolonged complications.


    In the afternoon, the Security Department submitted all details of the case to the Sanctuary, clearly stating the outcomes: execution or life imprisonment for principal offenders like Old Master Qin, the Four Major Transportation Merchants, Bai Yongkang, and other key accomplices.


    Other heads of departments, directors, and accomplices, received either demotions, dismissals, or imprisonment based on the severity of their crimes...


    After receiving this report, the Sanctuary was immediately shaken.


    After carefully understanding the entire case, the Sanctuary agreed with the Security Department''s processing results and issued two commendations and one warning sanction.


    Naturally, the warning sanction was for the Xinjie City Municipal Committee.


    As the highest authority in Xinjie City, the Municipal Committee was the institution most heavily infiltrated by the Qin Family and the United Front, a true disgrace to Xinjie City!


    And of course, the two commendations were for the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department.


    As the ones who uncovered this major case and cooperated closely to quickly root out all the individuals involved and the hidden forces behind them, the Sanctuary gave a high appraisal...


    Although it was just two modest written praises, to the current, turbulent upper echelons of Xinjie City society, they were factors that could influence many matters...


    ....


    6 P.M.


    Investigation Bureau, ninth floor, large conference room.


    All nine senior members of the Investigation Bureau gathered here for a meeting.


    The main purpose of this meeting was twofold: to summarize the Yin Caimei case, and the other was... to discuss the personnel arrangements within the Investigation Bureau.


    Several of Qiu Tu''s acquaintances, Yan Chen, Tang Feifei, Jia Shu, and Secretary Bai were all in attendance.


    Possibly due to the formality of the occasion, everyone''s demeanor was different from when in private.


    Especially Tang Feifei.


    In Qiu Tu''s presence, her smile was faint but her expression lively.


    But in such a serious setting, her wheat-colored face had no expression at all, chillingly austere.


    The meeting began with Secretary Bai giving a brief introduction of the Yin Caimei case to the senior members present.


    It included the cause of the case, the process, as well as the evidence, confessions, punishment results for the related personnel, and the commendations from the Sanctuary.


    Among them... to highlight the Investigation Bureau''s role, and under Yan Chen''s suggestion, Secretary Bai mentioned key terms like "Qiu Tu" and "Political Department" numerous times.


    The senior members present were all savvy. Just by listening to Secretary Bai''s report, they roughly understood the purpose of Yan Chen''s meeting and her personal stance...


    Essentially, Yan Chen was using the Sanctuary''s commendation today to build momentum for Qiu Tu, signaling to everyone what the upcoming personnel arrangements would look like...


    This made the senior members in attendance ponder what positions of department head within the Investigation Bureau were still vacant...


    After a year of filling roles and promotions, the Investigation Bureau still had some departments without heads, but... most were clean government offices.


    Like the records department of the Administrative Office, or the head of the Public Security Offices under the Public Security Bureau, or the equipment management department of the Training Department, and so on...


    But, these were obviously not desirable positions...


    ----


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words each. Chapter 3 will be updated around 19:00. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Subscribe!

 Chapter 174 - 144: Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)

    Especially since.... Qiu Tu''s previous position was the deputy chief of the Political Department Interrogation Section. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the ace department of the Investigation Bureau, the status of the Political Department is really too special. For a deputy chief of the Political Department to be transferred to other departments as a chief, although it can be considered a promotion, it.... can also be seen as a veiled demotion.


    After all, although this career trajectory means a higher rank, the opportunities for achievement as well as the influence over the Investigation Bureau and Xinjie City would be greatly diminished.


    So.... being moved to those clean government offices might not necessarily be a good thing for the now thriving Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this way, some high-level officials couldn''t help but ponder.


    ''Could it be.... that they are planning to move other department chiefs to those less popular departments, to clear the way for Qiu Tu''s ascent?''


    No sooner had this thought arisen than it was dismissed by the high-level officials.


    After all.... such an arrangement would be too conspicuous.


    Even if the Investigation Bureau has always been at the whim of Yan Chen, able to arrange personnel at will, such an unusual appointment would still attract a lot of criticism. Even if there is no immediate impact on Yan Chen, should anything happen in the future, it would be ammunition to criticize him.


    Moreover, all present were old colleagues who had worked with Yan Chen for one year or even many years, and had some understanding of Yan Chen''s cunning and shrewdness. They knew... he would not play such an ordinary hand.


    With these thoughts, some high-level officials suddenly found themselves unable to fathom what exactly Yan Chen was up to.


    Therefore, they simply stopped overthinking and patiently waited for Yan Chen''s decision....


    But at this moment, Yan Chen did not seem to be in any hurry.


    After Secretary Bai had patiently explained the "Yin Caimei Case," he looked around at everyone present, setting a tone for the "Yin Caimei Case."


    "This case should be the biggest one handled by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau since its establishment."


    "It''s also one of the most serious cases in the Planning Area in recent years."


    His face, aged and expressionless, revealed no mood, "Fortunately... the case was discovered in time and handled promptly, avoiding a major disaster."


    "Otherwise, if it had really blown up, we might all have been held accountable by the Sanctuary."


    "So, we must take a serious lesson from this case, striving to preempt similar cases in the future...."


    "Not waiting until something actually happens, then regretting it."


    As he spoke, Yan Chen couldn''t help but recall his entire emotional journey that afternoon....


    Actually.... when he learned that "Qin Heng" had confessed and the Security Department had cracked the case completely, Yan Chen was still somewhat annoyed.


    After all, the Qin Family was too important for him at the moment.


    With the backing of the Qin Family, his power could reach into City Hall and various industries throughout Xinjie City, and he could also draw on the Qin Family''s connections to gather the forces large and small within Xinjie City by exploiting his proximity to power.


    Just give him a year or two to digest and establish the entire network of relationships and power, and then he would become the most influential person in Xinjie City, without parallel.


    The problem was that at this juncture, the Qin Family had been ruined by people from inside his own Investigation Bureau!


    To be honest, these past few days, Yan Chen had been filled with the urge to tear Qiu Tu and Jia Shu to pieces!


    But.... once the Sanctuary sent down the case report to Yan Chen, his thoughts immediately made a 180-degree turn.


    What caused such a swift change in attitude was the true identity of Qin Heng!


    The case was so sensitive that neither the public information nor the criticism or praise from the Sanctuary touched on anything related to the "Evil God."


    On top of that, all the evidence and information related to the "Evil God" in the case were classified, so before the case was concluded, Yan Chen was unaware of the specifics.


    So when he used his authority to look through the files and classified information, he was shocked to discover: Qin Heng was a spy for United Front, and the Qin Family was propped up by them, which turned out to be the smallest problem with the case!


    The bigger issue was: Old Master Qin had contacted the Evil God more than twenty years ago and, in exchange for ushering in the Evil God''s arrival, had possessed the bodies of his two sons, becoming the new Qin Heng....


    Truth be told, Yan Chen had suspected that the Qin Family was somehow entangled with the Evil God, but he really did not expect it to be so deep, that Old Master Qin had played such a huge gambit.


    Therefore, at that moment, Yan Chen''s attitude toward Qiu Tu really did make a 180-degree turn.


    Because he knew this case would become a landmark one in the Planning Area in recent years, cited countless times in the future.


    Thus, Qiu Tu must be rewarded, and he must be promoted, and.... it can''t be to a clean government office.


    Only in this way could he demonstrate his firm stance....


    Thinking this, Yan Chen''s thoughts gradually returned.


    As an old politician with rich experience in meetings, thinking outwardly while speaking bureaucratic jargon was not a difficult operation for Yan Chen.


    So, when he had finished reminiscing, his summary and assessment were just coming to an end.


    He took a sip of water, then leaned back in his chair, his gaze neither joyful nor sad as he looked at the high-level officials present, then he took the initiative to start today''s main agenda, "We''ve finished discussing the ''Yin Caimei Case.''"


    "I believe everyone understands the importance of this case for the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau!"


    "Therefore, I think that those who performed exceptionally in this case should be properly adjusted in their work, taking on more responsibilities."

 Chapter 175 - 144: Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)_2

    "I wonder what everyone''s thoughts are..."


    Upon hearing his words, the high-level officials present knew the main topic had arrived, and so they each adjusted their sitting posture slightly, ready to watch the unfolding drama.


    The first to speak was Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director.


    Lin Ting was a somewhat slick-looking middle-aged man and a confidant of Yan Chen.


    He glanced at Yan Chen, then looked around at the others present before speaking with a smile, "I support the Bureau Chief''s decision."


    "This case has had such a wide impact, scoring us so many points at the Sanctuary. The investigators and officers involved, I think, should all be promoted and get a pay raise. This would also help boost the morale of the staff below."


    He paused momentarily, gauging Yan Chen''s intentions, then continued with a smile, "Take, for example, the person primarily responsible for this case, Qiu Tu."


    "He handled this case all on his own, with courage and responsibility, and his ability to solve the case is also outstanding." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Currently just a Deputy Staff head... I think that''s really burying his talent! Why not add to his responsibilities and promote him up a level to become a Section head? What do you think?"


    After speaking, Lin Ting looked at Yan Chen, and seeing no objection, he breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed back into his seat.


    Secretary Bai, seeing this, followed up at the right moment, "I also think Qiu Tu could indeed be promoted to Section head, but... are there any suitable positions for Qiu Tu right now?"


    With this, his gaze turned to Shi Youxin, the head of the Investigation Bureau Organization Department.


    Shi Youxin coughed once and slowly straightened up.


    He said, "There are actually quite a few vacancies for Section head positions. Departments like the Archives Section, Command and Coordination Section, and Dong District Public Security Office all have openings."


    "I think we could transfer Qiu Tu to one of these departments to manage a section. It would also count as further promotion and heavy use of his talents."


    After Shi Youxin finished speaking, the meeting room gradually became quiet.


    These sections were exactly what the high-level attendees had been thinking of¡ªthe so-called Clean government offices.


    Currently unable to discern Yan Chen''s intentions, no one dared to speak out of turn, preferring to wait for Yan Chen to express his thoughts first.


    Meanwhile, since entering the room, Tang Feifei, who hadn''t said a word until now, seemed to be in deep thought...


    It''s said that one best understands a person who is their enemy.


    The relationship between Tang Feifei and Yan Chen was no exception.


    Fully aware of Yan Chen''s character, Tang Feifei knew that if Yan Chen desired to place Qiu Tu in those Clean government offices, a simple command would suffice.


    A minor Section head position truly wasn''t worthy of a meeting discussion.


    Therefore... Yan Chen must have other ideas, and these ideas must be somewhat unconventional. This was why he needed to go through the motions in an open meeting.


    With these thoughts, Tang Feifei couldn''t help wondering what Yan Chen was thinking...


    Could it be that Yan Chen wanted to transfer Zheng Tao, the Interrogation Section head, and directly promote Qiu Tu?


    Or was Yan Chen prepared to move the head of another department to make room for Qiu Tu?


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei felt something was off.


    If it wasn''t about making room, then...


    At this thought, Tang Feifei suddenly startled, probably guessing Yan Chen''s intentions.


    ''If that''s the case... no wonder Yan Chen would discuss this in a meeting.''


    ''It seems... that young man really has Yan Chen''s trust.''


    With these thoughts, recalling the day and night she and Qiu Tu had fought the day before, the traces left all over the break room, and the way Qiu Tu had exerted himself over her,


    Tang Feifei''s lips involuntarily curved into a nearly imperceptible smile.


    ''Well, let me help you too.''


    With that in mind, as the room quietened down, Tang Feifei slowly began to speak.


    Her beautiful face serious, her wheat-colored skin gleaming, "I think it''s a bit inappropriate to promote Qiu Tu right now, isn''t it?"


    "Besides, if I remember correctly, wasn''t Qiu Tu just recently promoted to Deputy Staff head not long ago?"


    "Promoting twice within a month, isn''t that a bit too exceptional?"


    "Furthermore... Qiu Tu doesn''t really have much experience in leading work. Assisting with a department''s work as a deputy is one thing,"


    "But if he''s exceptionally promoted to be the head of a department, can he truly handle it?"


    Along with Tang Feifei''s words, the atmosphere in the meeting room suddenly became even quieter.


    Seeing that she''d made her stance clear, Tang Feifei knew the principle of not overdoing it, so she shifted her tone and began to "pave the way" for Qiu Tu.


    She said, "Of course, Qiu Tu has just cracked such a big case and received commendation from the Sanctuary, so it would be wrong not to promote him."


    "Thus, I believe... we could actually create a Section head level instructor position in the [Training Department]."


    "This way, he wouldn''t have to be responsible for the main business of a department, but he could still receive more training and improve his rank."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the high-level executives present didn''t say a word, but almost all of them lit up at this new perspective.


    Hey, not bad! While Tang Feifei''s intentions might not be the best, she indeed opened up a new avenue of thought for them.


    Right... promoting to Section head doesn''t necessarily have to involve placement within the existing departments, positions can be created as well.


    Especially now that the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau is in its early establishment phase, it''s normal for departments to be still adjusting. Adding or reducing a position is quite routine.


    Only... it certainly wouldn''t be placed in the [Training Department]!


    Everyone present were keen observers, aware of the strained relationship between Tang Feifei and Yan Chen.


    The Training Department was considered a Lengshui Yamen, a cold and marginal department, and one of the departments under Tang Feifei''s jurisdiction.

 Chapter 176 - 144: Promotion! Section Chief! (12,000 words 3/3!)_3

    They speculated that Tang Feifei wanted to place Qiu Tu in the [Training Department] for two obvious reasons.


    First, she wanted to sideline Qiu Tu, and second, she recognized his abilities and wanted to see if she could pull him into her camp under the circumstances of close proximity...


    But such calculations were far too obvious and were certainly not going to go as planned.


    Thinking this, several senior executives couldn''t help but turn their eyes toward Yan Chen, waiting for Yan Chen''s stance. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sure enough, Yan Chen gave Tang Feifei an expressionless glance, then turned to look at Secretary Bai, "Secretary Bai, what do you think of Director Tang''s idea?"


    Before the meeting, it was clear that Yan Chen had already shared his thoughts with Secretary Bai. So when Yan Chen asked, Secretary Bai knew it was time to unveil the mystery.


    Therefore, he said to Tang Feifei with a smile, "Director Tang''s idea is very interesting. It indeed opens up a new train of thought for us."


    "However... I think since Qiu Tu''s strength lies in solving cases, we shouldn''t waste his abilities."


    "So, if we were to create a new Principal Staff position, we could perfectly well add one in the Political Department."


    "That way, Qiu Tu could also continue to leverage his talents."


    As soon as Secretary Bai spoke, those present immediately understood this was likely Yan Chen''s true intent.


    ''Create a new Principal Staff position in the Political Department...?''


    At this thought, everyone present couldn''t help but be impressed. They felt Yan Chen really had a "true love" for Qiu Tu.


    To create a Principal Staff position within a department, especially as a deputy, is simple but must fulfill a prerequisite: the department head must be at the Deputy Division Level, so that the deputy can be at the Principal Section Level.


    And this signifies that the department must be a trump card within the Political Department.


    A trump card within the trump cards, and as Principal Staff at that, this was indeed a significant show of favoritism!


    Subsequently, the senior executives discussed which division within the Political Department should add the Principal Staff position.


    Quickly, with Secretary Bai''s guidance, they reached a consensus: the Action Division.


    As the most dominant and largest division within the Political Department, the Action Division is virtually synonymous with the Political Department externally.


    All jurisdiction over the lower-tier investigators from the Political Department lies in the hands of the Action Division.


    Whether it''s investigating cases or arresting suspects, none can bypass the Action Division.


    This dominance not only allowed the head of the Action Division to concurrently hold the position of Deputy Director of the Political Department but also warranted the establishment of four Deputy Division Chiefs under him, all at Principal Staff rank.


    Therefore, if a new Principal Staff position were to be added, this department would certainly be the best choice.


    Indeed, when everyone''s discussion concluded, a slight smile finally appeared on Yan Chen''s face.


    His aged eyes slowly swept around the conference room, then he said in a deep voice, "Serving as Deputy Division Chief (Principal Staff) in the Action Division? Indeed not bad."


    "However... the work in the Action Division is currently going very well, and the collaboration between the several Deputy Division Chiefs and the Chief is already very harmonious. So what tasks will Qiu Tu be responsible for in this arrangement?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, the high-ranking officials present were momentarily stunned.


    This was a meeting of the high-echelons of the Investigation Bureau! Discussing the division of work for a Principal Staff?


    Couldn''t this matter be privately negotiated and resolved by the Political Department or the Action Division itself?


    Or was it that... Yan Chen had some other idea in mind?


    And as the others were puzzling over this riddle, Secretary Bai began speaking slowly again.


    He glanced at Yan Chen, then said thoughtfully, "The Bureau Chief makes a good point. The work of the Action Division is very important, and as it is currently running smoothly, change is indeed not advisable."


    Pausing, he continued, "Additionally, it seems that Qiu Tu has just recently taken over the [Pharmacy Robbery Case], which is quite a busy assignment."


    "This case is of the utmost importance to the City Hall and is also the biggest case the Investigation Bureau has seen in the past year."


    "Previously, this case had always been handled by Deputy Division Chief Qin Zhengguang of the Public Security Bureau."


    "As far as I know, Deputy Division Chief Qin Zhengguang''s main focus has been on this case lately, and his other responsibilities have only included managing a few Public Security Offices like Xiafang Street and Old Alley Street."


    "Which, incidentally, are also the areas surrounding where the [Pharmacy Robbery Case] took place."


    "Now, since Deputy Division Chief Qin Zhengguang... has been suspended due to his brother''s influence, these duties are temporarily without someone in charge."


    "Perhaps... we could temporarily assign Qiu Tu to handle these areas under the title of [Pharmacy Robbery Case Investigation Team]?"


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, the entire conference room fell into... utter silence.


    Even the most cunning of those present were caught off guard by Yan Chen''s astonishing plan!


    -----


    With these 5,000 words, plus the previous two segments of 7k, the total is 12k, haha!


    I could have broken this up into separate parts, but I considered the reading experience of you all, so I chose to write it all out in one go, which is why it''s a bit late! I ask for Monthly Tickets! I ask for subscriptions!


    Tonight, we continue with a daily ten thousand!

 Chapter 177 - 145: Everyone Shocked by the Promotion (10,000 words plea for subscription!)

    Everyone in attendance was an old fox, so the moment Secretary Bai''s proposal was mentioned, they immediately understood Yan Chen''s true arrangement for Qiu Tu!


    Although it appeared that Qiu Tu had been promoted, in reality, he had perfectly assumed all of Qin Zhengguang''s scope of authority!


    Then, the question arose...


    1. Since Qiu Tu had taken over all of Qin Zhengguang''s responsibilities, then... should the Public Security Bureau appoint another Deputy Division Chief to replace Qin Zhengguang''s position?


    To appoint?


    Then... what would this Deputy Division Chief do?


    Not to appoint?


    Then... wouldn''t this position be reserved for Qiu Tu?


    Plainly put, although Yan Chen only promoted Qiu Tu from Deputy Staff to Principal Staff, he had expanded his scope of authority to that of a Deputy Division Chief level.


    Moreover, he had even reserved the position of Deputy Director of the Public Security Bureau for Qiu Tu, just waiting for him to establish more merit and endure the passage of time before he could be promoted directly!


    2. And what made these high-level figures deeply alarmed was: although Qiu Tu had taken over Qin Zhengguang''s authority... after all, his title was still that of Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department''s Action Division!


    So... even though Qiu Tu did not manage the work of the Action Division, could he mobilize its personnel?


    Could he take part in personnel arrangements of the Action Division? Could he vote on important matters of the Action Division?


    Yan Chen was simply creating an incredibly terrifying "monster" that spanned two departments and was expansively augmenting his range of power without restraint.


    Now, Qiu Tu was stirring up trouble within both the Public Security Bureau and the Political Department, but who knew if he would suddenly leap over to a third department?


    Once this precedent was set, who other than Yan Chen could limit Qiu Tu''s development?


    Honestly, with this thought, the individuals couldn''t dare to think further on the matter.


    With these thoughts, the faces of the high-level attendees couldn''t help but look a bit unusual.


    However, since the Investigation Bureau was almost entirely under Yan Chen''s control, and most of these high-level figures were also part of Yan Chen''s camp, no one spoke out against it...


    At this moment, Tang Feifei was also stunned by Yan Chen''s arrangement for Qiu Tu.


    She felt that Yan Chen was truly investing a lot in Qiu Tu.


    No wonder such an ordinary position of section chief still needed to be discussed in a meeting. If Yan Chen dared to decide such a big matter privately, it would certainly arouse a lot of controversy afterwards.


    After all, even now, several high-level figures clearly held reservations about this... S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s expressionless face swept across the expressions of the high-level attendees in the conference room, capturing their attitudes...


    After a moment, she made up her mind.


    ''Little man... you owe me a big favor this time...''


    Thinking thus, Tang Feifei looked sharply towards Secretary Bai, then spoke slowly but firmly, "Secretary Bai, isn''t this proposal a bit too fantastical?"


    "For a Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division not to work diligently within the Action Division, but instead to interfere with the work of the Public Security Bureau, isn''t that a bit too much?"


    As she said this, Tang Feifei turned towards the Public Security Department Director, Guan Weihua.


    Guan Weihua gave an awkward smile, neither supporting nor opposing.


    Being Yan Chen''s confidant, by neither supporting nor opposing, he was, in fact, indicating some reservations about the proposal from Yan Chen and Secretary Bai.


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei purposefully allowed a hint of triumph to appear on her wheat-colored face, then continued, "Moreover, after all, Qiu Tu is just a newcomer who has only handled a case or two."


    "Do you all really believe he can handle the ''Pharmacy Robbery Case''?"


    "I don''t have that much faith in him."


    As Tang Feifei continued her salvo, the room fell into silence.


    At that moment, the head of the Special Service Department, Lin Ting, spoke up. He first glanced at Yan Chen, and after confirming Yan Chen''s intentions, he began slowly, "Director Tang, your words are not quite right."


    "Since joining the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu has indeed accumulated quite a few merits."


    "Repelling the attack from the United Front, cracking down on Master Qin Si''s organized crime, and just this morning, once again annihilating a United Front squad¡ªthese are all merits!"


    "And moreover... the commendation from the Sanctuary is the greatest recognition of him."


    "If we still don''t trust him with this, then who else is worthy of trust?"


    "Besides... Secretary Bai didn''t want Qiu Tu to meddle with the matters of Public Security Bureau. He clearly said that everything was for the sake of the case!"


    "Having Qiu Tu temporarily handle these matters is only to better investigate the ''Pharmacy Robbery Case'', nothing more."


    "Even if we select someone now to replace Qin Zhengguang as Deputy Division Chief, wouldn''t Qiu Tu still need to control those personnel and have those Public Security Offices cooperate anyway?"


    "In that case, the handling of those business matters will become even more chaotic!"


    "Therefore, it''s better to let Qiu Tu deal with those matters for now, and we can discuss it again after the case is solved!"


    Honestly, Lin Ting''s argument was a bit of bait and switch: cooperating with the Public Security Office and managing it were completely different things.


    He was just trying to show his loyalty to Yan Chen by purposely countering Tang Feifei''s arguments and did not actually expect to persuade her to agree with his points.


    So, after making his statement, he sat there waiting for Tang Feifei''s counterattack.


    But, to everyone''s surprise... after a quiet consideration, Tang Feifei actually conceded, "Minister Lin does have a point."


    "I don''t have any objections for the time being."


    Having said that, Tang Feifei leaned back in her chair and remained silent.


    Tang Feifei''s sudden concession almost caused all the high-level officials present to throw out their backs.


    Nobody had expected Tang Feifei to launch a fiery attack only to retreat halfway through the battle?

 Chapter 178 - 145: The Crowd Shocked by the Promotion (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscriptions!)_2

    The problem was, this led to a very bizarre situation, Yan Chen''s opposition, Tang Feifei, had agreed to the matter, so what about his group of confidants, did they agree or not?


    For a moment, several of the upper echelons were a bit baffled. They also became unclear about Tang Feifei''s tactics.


    Had she really been persuaded by Lin Ting? Did she realize the task was impossible and draw back? Or... did she have some other scheme?


    Because key information was missing, they of course couldn''t guess that Tang Feifei was actually on Qiu Tu''s side, coordinating with Yan Chen and Secretary Bai....


    This turn of events also made Yan Chen take another look at Tang Feifei, with a flicker of hesitation flashing through his eyes....


    But no matter whether Yan Chen was hesitant or not, once Tang Feifei, the opposition, had given in, the tone of the entire meeting was thoroughly set.


    Unless someone saw themselves as yet another enemy of Yan Chen, it was unlikely for anyone present to cast an opposing or noncommittal vote.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s somewhat exaggerated appointment was unanimously passed in a strange atmosphere.


    Throughout the entire meeting, Yan Chen had hardly spoken or expressed any stance. With a single glance, a single question, he had the direction of the entire meeting in his grasp. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With this, Qiu Tu''s appointment officially took effect.


    However, after the meeting was dismissed, aside from wondering about Yan Chen''s favoritism towards Qiu Tu, the upper echelons were more curious about what Tang Feifei was really up to.


    Possibly sensing the upper echelons'' curiosity, Tang Feifei deliberately said with a smile as the meeting adjourned, "I hope everyone''s judgment is correct."


    "If... the [Pharmacy robbery case] isn''t solved by the deadline, don''t blame me for speaking harshly."


    Having said that, Tang Feifei strode away with her long, shapely legs, leaving the conference room like a pantheress.


    Shocked by her "harsh words," the upper echelons were stunned for a moment, then "understood" Tang Feifei''s thoughts....


    ''Is she thinking of setting up Qiu Tu for failure? First elevate Qiu Tu and then, when he fails to crack the case, confront the Bureau Chief?''


    Though the reasoning was somewhat far-fetched, it was... at least plausible.


    Therefore, the upper echelons didn''t think too much of it.


    Among them, perhaps only Secretary Bai, watching Tang Feifei''s retreating figure, furrowed his brows, feeling something was amiss....


    Because... her behavior felt... eerily similar to his own?


    Ever since he had a falling out with Qiu Tu, he frequently criticized Qiu Tu in front of Yan Chen, but in reality, he spoke in favor of Qiu Tu indirectly....


    And Tang Feifei seemed to be doing the same....


    ''It must be an overthought.''


    ''How could Qiu Tu possibly join forces with her....''


    Thinking this, Secretary Bai shook his head and left the conference room with a "gloomy face."


    ¡ª Now, he had "a bone to pick" with the "ungrateful" Qiu Tu. The only reason he had been advocating for Qiu Tu all day was because of Yan Chen''s arrangements. He shouldn''t be happy about Qiu Tu''s promotion!


    And as the upper echelons left one by one, the ripple effects of the meeting continued to spread through the night....


    .....


    Interrogation Section. "Yin Caimei Case" investigation team.


    Because the case had been successfully concluded, the members of the investigation team were staying late, quietly packing up their things.


    Possibly because they had grown accustomed to working with Qiu Tu and to his leadership, everyone present felt a bit reluctant to part.


    Cao Dabiao held on to Qiu Tu''s arm, theatrically expressing, "Chief! We truly can''t bear to leave you."


    "Life in the Action Division is no fun compared to being by your side."


    "Will you continue to take us with you to your new investigation team?"


    Seeing that Cao Dabiao was playing around, Qiu Tu laughed and kicked him in the butt, "Get lost! I''m sick of seeing you these days!"


    "Keep you with me? Dream on!"


    At that moment, Liu Fuping also sashayed over.


    She slapped Cao Dabiao''s hand off Qiu Tu and looped her own arm through his. Then, with a look of contempt, she said to Cao Dabiao, "Stop trying to seduce our Chief Qiu. I''ll have you know, he belongs to our Interrogation Section."


    "And besides, with all the big and burly men in the Action Division, how could they be as cute as the delicate girls from the Interrogation Section?"


    As she spoke, Liu Fuping turned to seek backup from Song Qing, who was enjoying the spectacle, "Right, Qingqing?"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Song Qing chuckled and patted Wang Xi on the shoulder, saying, "Of course."


    Wang Xi smirked and echoed the two women''s sentiment.


    But when the agents from the Action Division heard Liu Fuping''s words, they instantly felt a bit "unconvinced."


    Since everyone got along well during this time, they didn''t hesitate to joke back, "How did the Action Division end up with just a bunch of old men?"


    "We have a lot of secretary girls too, okay!"


    "Besides, how can you assume the Bureau Chief isn''t interested in men?!"


    "If the Bureau Chief needs... we wouldn''t mind sacrificing ourselves!"


    "Ho ho ho ho!" At these audacious words, Liu Fuping and Song Qing laughed so hard they couldn''t straighten their backs.


    Liu Fuping was all but clinging to Qiu Tu, rubbing against him.


    Irritated by the rubbing, Qiu Tu leaned over and whispered in her ear, "If you don''t get up, I might just have to... rise."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s pretty face blushed. She seductively glanced at Qiu Tu, leaned to his ear, and whispered back, "Well, why don''t you rise then... stop just firing blanks."


    ''Hiss!''


    The mention of firing blanks made Qiu Tu recall the vision of Liu Fuping kneeling before him, her lips a fiery red.


    At that thought, he licked his lips and whispered back, "If I were to rise, then you... wouldn''t be able to get up."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s unabashed flirtation, Liu Fuping''s laughter made her eyes curve into rainbows.


    She discreetly pinched Qiu Tu, her tone more flirtatious than annoyed as she said, "You''re going to be the death of me!"


    And just as everyone was teasing and bickering,


    Suddenly, the door to the Investigation Bureau''s temporary office was knocked on loudly from the outside.


    Soon after, an agent with a beaming smile opened the office door, then respectfully said, "Is Chief Qiu here?"


    Upon hearing the agent''s words, the temporary office gradually quieted down, and everyone looked at each other, a bit unclear about whom the person was looking for.


    Eventually, it was Liu Fuping, who was wrapped around Qiu Tu, who took the initiative to speak up. Her attractive eyes fixed on the agent, she parted her lips and said, "Chief Qiu? Which Chief Qiu? We only have Chief Qiu Tu here."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, the agent hurriedly said with a look of delight, "Yes, that''s right, I''m looking for Chief Qiu Tu."


    Upon hearing the agent''s words, the office fell silent once more.


    Everyone''s mind was racing.


    Wait a minute, the Investigation Bureau is a disciplined force where every title, every rank is meticulously adhered to, and one cannot be casual with these terms.


    The person had called out Qiu Tu''s name, but continued to refer to him as Chief...


    So...


    Did the Bureau Chief get promoted again?


    For a moment, everyone was a bit shocked.


    And... Chief?!


    Wasn''t the Bureau Chief just a Deputy Staff Head before? How could he have been promoted to Bureau Chief?


    Suddenly, it felt like the CPUs of everyone present were overheating.


    So, whether it was Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Wang Xi, everyone''s gaze incessantly flicked toward Qiu Tu, wanting to see his reaction.


    And to figure out... just what position Qiu Tu had been promoted to.


    ------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words, haha. Chapter 3 will update around 19:00. Begging for the bare minimum monthly tickets!

 Chapter 179 - 146 You Are Being Watched by the Evil God (Please Subscribe for 10,000 Characters!)

    At this time, Qiu Tu was also a bit surprised.


    Although he had guessed that Yan Chen would definitely give him a promotion and raise after the "Yin Caimei case" settled down,


    he didn''t expect it so soon, and secondly... he didn''t expect such a big leap. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Of course, he did not think that Yan Chen would promote him directly to Deputy Division Chief, but... a few days earlier, he had simply listed a few possible directions for his promotion.


    Among them, the most likely one to be associated with the word "Deputy Division Chief" was the position of Deputy Chief of the Action Division.


    And thinking about the power and prestige that position represented, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a bit excited...


    ''Is Old Yan really so supportive? It looks like... I really underestimated him!''


    Thinking this way, although Qiu Tu was excited inside, he maintained a calm demeanor and said to the agent at the door, "I am Qiu Tu. Is there something you need?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the agent smiled and said, "Minister Shi from the Organizational Department has requested to see you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave a faint "Hmm," then stood up and followed the agent out of the temporary office.


    After Qiu Tu left, the Investigation Team''s temporary office was quiet for a few seconds before suddenly erupting.


    Qiu Tu''s subordinates were all excited, whether it was Cao Dabiao or Ding Xiaoliu, even Song Qing was frantically discussing, "Deputy Division Chief? Has the boss been promoted again?"


    "Which division''s Deputy Chief? It can''t possibly be a two-level jump, right? So, which is it?"


    After discussing for a while, several people with well-connected sources went out to gather information.


    In government departments, there are never any secrets: especially regarding promotions.


    So, it wasn''t long before Qiu Tu''s exaggerated appointment appeared before all members of the investigation team:


    At the Principal Section Level, the position of Deputy Chief of the Action Division, but with jurisdiction that was previously under the control of former Deputy Chief Qin Zhengguang...


    This exaggeration and thought-provoking appointment left Qiu Tu''s subordinates somewhat silenced.


    After a long time, it was the fearless and somewhat naive Song Qing who was the first to speak.


    She tilted her head, curiously saying, "Why do I feel... that he''s really a Deputy Division Chief now?"


    Her words almost also reflected everyone''s thoughts.


    So, Chen Feng remained silent, Cao Dabiao and Ding Xiaoliu exchanged glances.


    And... Liu Fuping also supported her cheek, her face flushed, her eyes flickering, seemingly lost in thought...


    Not only were they all shocked by this appointment, but even Qiu Tu, who was accepting his position in the Organizational Department, was somewhat stunned upon learning his real appointment...


    At that moment, he even doubted whether he had somehow bewitched the higher-ups of the Investigation Bureau.


    How did Yan Chen think of such an exaggerated promotion?


    And how did those high-level officials approve it?


    Qiu Tu found it puzzling...


    The trip to the Organizational Department was just a formality.


    Asking about the situation, checking the archives, informing him of the new appointment, changing his epaulettes...


    By the time the entire process was finished, it was already 9 p.m.


    Because his file was still at the Political Department, there was no need to change Qiu Tu''s uniform, saving him quite a bit of effort.


    After completing the whole process, Qiu Tu''s heart was pounding as he left the Organizational Department, barely able to contain the joy on his face!


    After leaving the Organizational Department, Qiu Tu stood quietly by the window in the corridor on the 8th floor for a while. Looking out at the dark Xinjie City, the dark world, Qiu Tu knew that this was only the beginning of his career, not the end...


    After taking a few deep breaths to calm his excited emotions, Qiu Tu thought for a moment and decided to return to the temporary office of the Investigation Team first.


    Although he had been promoted, there were still some loose ends to tie up with the "Yin Caimei case".


    Like filing the evidence and clues, like transferring the prisoners, like releasing Bai Ru...


    After investigating for several days, neither the Security Department nor Qiu Tu found any illegal or criminal conduct on the part of this woman.


    But tragically... her father and husband were both major accomplices in the case, one sentenced to death, the other to life imprisonment.


    So, Qiu Tu also needed to properly console this young widow...


    Otherwise, he really feared she wouldn''t be able to cope...


    ...


    Upon arriving at the temporary office and just opening the door, there was a loud "bang!" as firecrackers went off!


    Countless streamers exploded in the air, Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu, and others laughed heartily as they pounced over and hugged Qiu Tu, then chattered with congratulatory words.


    Qiu Tu''s transfer to Deputy Chief of the Action Division brought the most joy to them.


    After all, this meant that Qiu Tu had become their immediate superior, and their future prospects were quite evident.


    In contrast, the attitudes of Liu Fuping, Song Qing, and Wang Xi were each different.


    As a spy, Liu Fuping didn''t care in which department Qiu Tu held a position. In fact, the higher Qiu Tu rose, the happier she was.


    So she sat on the desk with her perky behind, arms crossed over her chest, smiling as she watched everyone frolic.


    Whereas Song Qing felt a bit displeased. After all, finding a boss like Qiu Tu who was kindred in spirit and also liked to slouch off work was extremely rare.


    With Qiu Tu gone, she dreaded to think how difficult her future days in the Interrogation Section would be...


    As for Wang Xi...


    To be honest, he was the one with the most complicated feelings among everyone.


    Because, along with Qiu Tu''s promotion, another piece of news also came to everyone''s knowledge.


    That was the appointment of Qiu Tu as the head of the investigation team for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case"...


    Others didn''t know what this case was really about, but Wang Xi did. After all... he was one of the two criminals.


    And what''s more troubling is... during this time, Wang Xi had already witnessed the various marvels of Qiu Tu.


    Be it solving cases with seemingly prophetic insight, or crafting and planning with uncanny precision, all made him realize how terrifying Qiu Tu was...


    Therefore, he was genuinely a bit worried that Qiu Tu might indeed solve the case and catch him...


    With this thought, the faint light in his eyes began to flicker incessantly as if it had a life of its own...


    Meanwhile, as his mind fluctuated, at the same time, a slew of prompts suddenly popped up in front of Qiu Tu, who was surrounded by the crowd.


    ''Crisis Intuition triggered! Crisis report generated!''


    ''Warning! Due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the Evil God Larilo!''


    ''Warning! Due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the Evil God Larilo!''


    ''Warning! Due to a believer''s fear and panic, you have drawn the gaze of the Evil God Larilo!''


    The plain three prompts, without any additional remarks, were even more chilling than all the Crisis Warnings!


    And what''s worse was, a slowly appearing hourglass without a specific countdown appeared in the upper left of Qiu Tu''s sight.


    Where you would normally see the time, it now displayed "¡Þ".


    ''Is this... infinity?''


    Seeing the new Crisis Warning and a symbol for time on the countdown hourglass that was completely different, Qiu Tu was a bit stunned.


    He continued to laugh and celebrate with everyone while his brain was swiftly turning, pondering the information revealed by this Crisis Intuition...


    The triggering of [Crisis Intuition] proved that the Evil God''s gaze could indeed pose a threat to his life.


    But... the "Crisis Report" without any prompts and the "positive infinity" symbol seemed to suggest something else.


    Is it that Golden Finger is unable to analyze the threat of the Evil God, or is it that... although this gaze might be deadly, it won''t affect me for now?


    Because the information was a bit too scant, Qiu Tu was temporarily confused by the message conveyed by this [Crisis Warning]...


    However, what he could understand was... that it must have been Wang Xi who triggered all this.


    ''It seems my taking charge of the investigation into the [Pharmacy Robbery Case] has spooked Wang Xi, leading him to be terrified and thus attracting the attention of the Evil God.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu''s mind made a slight turn. Taking advantage of the harmonious atmosphere, he also spoke with a laugh, "It seems everyone knows about my promotion."


    "Rest assured, I won''t take all the credit for myself. Once I get settled, I''ll figure out a way to help everyone get a promotion too!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the atmosphere on the scene immediately became even more fervent.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu also took the opportunity to say, "Besides, I believe everyone also knows, the Bureau Chief and Minister have assigned me a new case, which is the [8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case]."


    "Although there is already an investigation team for that case... after all, I have a good rapport with everyone, so I thought about bringing everyone over to continue investigating the case."


    "What do you all think?"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu called out a few names, "Big Biao, you wouldn''t refuse to come, right?"


    Cao Dabiao chuckled with a sly grin, "How could I refuse! If the boss calls me, I''ll definitely go!"


    Qiu Tu laughed and patted his shoulder before looking at Chen Feng, "And you, Chen Feng?"


    Chen Feng''s usually expressionless face unexpectedly revealed a smile, "I obey the commands of my superior!"


    Qiu Tu turned to Liu Fuping with a smile, "And Sister Liu...?"


    Liu Fuping rolled her eyes coquettishly at Qiu Tu, "Even if you didn''t call me, I''d cling on and go anyway."


    By now, without Qiu Tu naming anyone, the young girl Song Qing excitedly jumped out with Wang Xi, "Boss! Us! We want to go too!"


    Dragged out by Song Qing, Wang Xi clearly showed reluctance, but under everyone''s gaze, he could only grin awkwardly, "Right, boss, me and us..."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu gave them a meaningful smile, "Since you''re so eager, then... of course, I won''t disappoint you. You two, added to the investigation team!"


    Suddenly, Wang Xi felt a jolt in his heart, always feeling as if... Qiu Tu seemed to know something.


    And just when the office was bustling like a joyous sea...


    "Buzz buzz¡ª" Liu Fuping''s communicator in her pocket vibrated softly twice: someone had sent a text message.


    Liu Fuping smiled as she withdrew her gaze from the jubilant atmosphere in the office and took out the communicator to check.


    But at a simple glance, her eyes lit up slightly. Because... the text was from Tang Feifei.


    ''Could it be that Director Tang has finally remembered to contact me?''


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping opened the message with anticipation.


    However, there was just a simple sentence: Please arrange a meeting with Qiu Tu for me. I would like to invite him to dinner at my villa tonight...


    Liu Fuping: ??


    ------


    Still three chapters with 10,000 words each. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00. It''s the 15th, support for the Monthly Ticket needed!

 Chapter 180 - 147 Sister Liu, Lets Get Together Tonight (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Looking at the content of Tang Feifei''s message, Liu Fuping truly felt a bunch of question marks popping up over her head.


    Ever since yesterday, Tang Feifei''s attitude towards Liu Fuping had turned somewhat cold.


    No matter if Liu Fuping took the initiative to contact Tang Feifei or quietly sought her out during break times, she was always turned away with the excuse of "being a bit busy."


    To tell the truth, Liu Fuping really couldn''t understand what had happened.


    How could a woman''s mood change so drastically overnight?


    She initially thought the situation was bizarre enough, but now... Tang Feifei was taking the initiative to send her a message, and it was to arrange a meeting with Qiu Tu?


    This really shattered Liu Fuping''s worldview!


    They hadn''t even reconciled yet! Why would she have her relay a message?


    And... such a strange message, at that!


    Relaying a message for a man to go see one''s "girlfriend" late at night? This... it''s weird no matter how you think about it!


    It was just like a cuckolded husband helping his wife find her mistress!


    Perhaps because she was too agitated, Liu Fuping''s bosom heaved dramatically...


    ''Don''t get too excited... don''t get too excited... there must be some misunderstanding.''


    After taking a few deep breaths, Liu Fuping forced herself to calm down and began to rethink this whole thing from a different angle.


    She felt... she might have misunderstood Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s relationship.


    Qiu Tu had previously collaborated with Tang Feifei, and they had been secretly forming an alliance against Yan Chen.


    With Qiu Tu''s promotion, it was very likely Tang Feifei wanted to deepen their partnership.


    It was not the dirty things she had been imagining!


    With this in mind, Liu Fuping hurriedly repeated to herself, ''Don''t overthink it, don''t overthink it...''


    Then, she once again put on a seductively confident smile on her face...


    But if one looked closely at her expression, they could still see the worry in the depths of her eyes...


    .....


    Cao Dabiao and the others didn''t make a fuss for too long, and after celebrating with Qiu Tu for a while, they left work.


    Although Qiu Tu had been promoted, he had also promised to take them to the new investigative team; they would see each other often, so there was no need to act as if it were a farewell to the death.


    After everyone else had left, Liu Fuping seized the opportunity and sauntered forward, handing the communicator to Qiu Tu.


    "Director Tang wants to see you tonight."


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was browsing through Bai Ru''s information.


    When a communicator suddenly appeared in front of him, he instinctively looked up.


    Perhaps because it was just Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping left in the office, Liu Fuping seemed even more enchanting.


    She had touched up her makeup at some point, with flaming red lips that looked both promiscuous and captivating.


    Qiu Tu gave her a peculiar look, then took the communicator and read Tang Feifei''s message.


    After reading the message, he hesitated for a moment and said, "I can go to her tonight, but... it might be quite late."


    At this, Qiu Tu patted the information about Bai Ru in his hands, "You understand. Section Chief Bai... needs some soothing."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping chuckled behind her hand. She thought Qiu Tu indeed needed to appease Bai Ru properly.


    Not only did he touch her, kiss her, wring out intelligence from her mouth, he also used that intelligence to get her father killed and her husband locked up.


    If she were Bai Ru, she probably would want to stab Qiu Tu in the heart.


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping took the communicator in hand and turned around, saying, "Alright, then I''ll talk with Director Tang to see if she will wait for you or change the time."


    Qiu Tu "hmmed" in response and then watched this beautiful young woman leave the office.


    It cannot be denied that Liu Fuping, since her awakening last time, truly became more and more alluring.


    It was a simple turning motion, but she deliberately fluttered her peachy eyes at Qiu Tu. And upon leaving, she also cleverly tiptoed.


    This posture accentuated a woman''s curves from behind, not only making her legs appear longer but also making her buttocks look perkier...


    ''This temptress... really is... tsk...''


    Qiu Tu inexplicably felt a twinge of envy towards Tang Feifei.


    As he thought this, Qiu Tu went back to focusing on tying up the loose ends of the case.


    10 minutes later, Liu Fuping sashayed back in and then plonked herself down on Qiu Tu''s desk.


    Qiu Tu was reviewing documents, and reflexively stretched out his hand to give Liu Fuping''s buttocks a firm slap, "Stop it."


    Liu Fuping winced in pain, but she bit her red lip and didn''t move away.


    She leaned over to look at Qiu Tu, her eyes brimming with suggestive allure, "Boss, it seems like you''re... taking advantage of me."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, laughed.


    He looked up to see Liu Fuping bending over in front of him, her deep cleavage almost spilling out,


    "Is that so? Should I return the favor then?"


    "And let you slap me a couple of times?"


    "Giggle giggle giggle." At Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping giggled, her chest undulating in waves that almost touched Qiu Tu''s face.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s heart swayed, and he remembered the ''facial treatment service'' he had experienced the previous week.


    He wondered how amazing it would be if Liu Fuping learned to do it for him.


    As a result, before Qiu Tu''s reveries could come to an end, Liu Fuping kicked out her right leg and turned to face Qiu Tu with a pivot on her buttocks, presenting herself in a straddled position in front of him.


    She gently lifted her leg onto Qiu Tu''s shoulder, leaned back, and then looked at Qiu Tu with a suggestive face, whispering, "Sir~~~ what do you think of me?"


    "Hiss..."


    Today, Qiu Tu was truly taken aback by Liu Fuping.


    It seemed like ever since she was humiliated by Tang Feifei, the woman had gone completely mad. But.... she had also become even more seductive.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu grabbed Liu Fuping''s slender leg, caressing it while locking eyes with her, "I think.... you''re quite impressive."


    Liu Fuping didn''t mind Qiu Tu''s little action. Smiling, she asked, "And...what about Director Tang? How is she?"


    Qiu Tu''s psychological fortitude was not to be underestimated. Faced with Liu Fuping, the "sufferer," his mood didn''t waver at all.


    He said with a smile, "Not bad either...."


    Liu Fuping wanted to continue asking.


    But just then, Qiu Tu, stroking his chin and looking wistful, added, "If I could have both of you together....hiss...."


    "Are you trying to kill me!" Liu Fuping was truly both irritated and amused by Qiu Tu.


    She had just gone outside to make a phone call with Tang Feifei. She told Tang Feifei that Qiu Tu might come over very late. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei seemed fairly normal, even taking the time to explain to Liu Fuping that her meeting with Qiu Tu tonight was for urgent matters to discuss.


    So no matter how late it was, she would wait for Qiu Tu.


    But Liu Fuping, who was very familiar with Tang Feifei''s tone and attitude, still keenly sensed Tang Feifei''s slightly unusual demeanor towards Qiu Tu....


    And remembering how Qiu Tu had also disappeared for a day yesterday, Liu Fuping suspected that something had happened between the two of them, which was why she had come to test Qiu Tu.


    Little did she expect that not only was Qiu Tu entertaining thoughts about Tang Feifei, he was even contemplating a double strike!


    He was simply shameless to the core!


    Thinking of Qiu Tu''s "annoying" demeanor, Liu Fuping didn''t feel like continuing the game with Qiu Tu. She snorted, annoyed, kicked Qiu Tu, said "Director Tang said she will wait no matter how late," and jumped off the table to leave.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu was not upset. Watching Liu Fuping''s voluptuous figure, he said with a laugh, "Don''t go, Sister Liu. Let''s hang out together tonight."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s shameless words, Liu Fuping stumbled, biting her lip in embarrassment and resentment as she turned around to glare at Qiu Tu.


    ''What a hooligan!''


    However, even though she inwardly cursed Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping, who had exited the office, began to feel a little odd in the calm aftermath.


    As a spy, especially one who was beautiful, had a good figure, and whose husband had died, Liu Fuping had almost maxed out all the possible gossip buffs.


    And to gather intelligence, she occasionally "fished" for adorers from a distance, just like fishing.


    But actually... she didn''t like either the rumors or this kind of fishing.


    Moreover, if someone behaved inappropriately during this process, she would despise and interrupt it without hesitation.


    Only... with Qiu Tu.


    The two had shared an event that still made her blush and become flustered at the thought, and now, their behavior and words were becoming more and more suggestive.


    This really left her confused...


    And moreover.... for some reason, every time Liu Fuping saw Qiu Tu now, she would feel incredibly grounded. Furthermore, whatever Qiu Tu asked her to do, she would do so without second thought.


    This trust.... even exceeded her limits.


    Such a realization only made her more perplexed.


    ''What.... exactly is happening to me?''


    Walking down the dimly lit corridor, Liu Fuping''s eyes were filled with bewilderment.


    If Qiu Tu knew Liu Fuping''s current thoughts and feelings, he probably wouldn''t be surprised.


    Because.... from his perspective, after this morning''s desperate gun battle, Liu Fuping''s loyalty to him had officially broken through the 80 mark!


    A subordinate who reached this level of loyalty has been completely conquered by Qiu Tu''s personal charm. To a certain extent, Qiu Tu''s orders could even outweigh those of her actual superiors.


    And the reason Liu Fuping was still confused was simply because such a choice had not been presented to her directly, preventing her from recognizing her own feelings clearly....


    A catalyst was needed for her to understand her heart properly...


    And at that moment, as Liu Fuping grappled with understanding her true feelings,


    suddenly, a voice that was partly mocking echoed from behind her in the darkness, "Agent Liu."


    Hearing that voice, Liu Fuping shuddered. For some reason, she had a bad premonition.


    She slowly turned around to see Jia Shu standing behind her, almost entirely in the shadows, "Section Chief?"


    That said, she quickly saluted.


    Jia Shu, hidden in the dark with eyes glowing crimson, looked deeply at Liu Fuping, his face behind gold-rimmed glasses filled with a feigned smile, "Do you have time to chat? I have some questions that I''ve wanted to ask you for a while."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Liu Fuping felt even more ominous dread. She hesitated for a moment and asked tentatively, "Section Chief... it''s after hours. Could we talk about it tomorrow?"


    Jia Shu''s smile was particularly sinister, "Do you think if we don''t clear this up today, you''ll still have a tomorrow? Miss Liu of the Eastern City Investigation Bureau Political Department...."


    At that moment, Liu Fuping felt like she had been doused in cold water. She had the chilling feeling of falling into an ice cellar!


    -----


    It''s still 3 chapters totaling 10,000 words! Some of the earlier chapters might have been rule-violating and were warned, so I went back and made some modifications.


    It feels like our book is being watched... Cherish it while you can, everyone. Cast more votes, keep following, or even turn on auto-subscribe.


    If our performance is good, the review team might relax a bit, thanks for the support!


    We''ll continue with 10,000 words tonight!

 Chapter 181 - 148: After Promotion, Everyone Around is Nice (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    As the minister of the Political Department, Jia Shu was a figure that could stop children from crying throughout Xinjie City.


    Despite always wearing a pair of gold-framed glasses and appearing cultured, courteous, and gentle, only those who had truly encountered him knew how cruel and bloody his methods were.


    Unfortunately... Liu Fuping was precisely one of those who had encountered him.


    As one of the earliest agents to join the Political Department, Liu Fuping had learned various techniques directly from Jia Shu, from interrogation skills to the torture of prisoners, and even to human dissection.


    Therefore, as his semi-disciple, she knew better than anyone the cold-bloodedness and cruelty of Jia Shu, and the terror he inspired.


    Thus, when Jia Shu exposed Liu Fuping''s identity, her face turned deathly pale, her body stiffened, and she didn''t even have the courage to muster any rebuttal.


    ¡ªBecause she knew, once Jia Shu found her, he was already 100% certain of her identity.


    Hence, as if her soul had been stolen, her eyes were lifeless, and she rigidly walked towards Jia Shu like a walking corpse.


    Under the dim light of the corridor, Jia Shu, with half of his body shrouded in darkness, revealed a smile that was neither a smile nor a laugh. Looking at Liu Fuping, he praised, "That''s my proud student."


    "Knowing not to make futile efforts..."


    In the darkness, he seemed particularly sinister and terrifying.


    After he finished speaking, he did not glance at Liu Fuping again. Humming a tune, his face broke into a slightly mad smile, hands in his pockets, he strode towards his office first.


    Watching his scholarly figure walk away, Liu Fuping clenched her teeth, her knuckles turning somewhat white.


    But she really didn''t dare to run away, so she could only silently and stiffly follow Jia Shu forward.


    However... just as they were about to approach the door of the Investigation Bureau, her left hand moved slightly, her thumb quietly sliding a ring off her index finger.


    And when the ring was about to touch the ground, she gently nudged it with her foot, avoiding direct contact with the floor.


    So the ring landed quietly at the door of the Investigation Bureau office.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping felt a slight relief in her heart.


    Although she didn''t know if Qiu Tu would find the ring; even if Qiu Tu found it, she didn''t know if it would lead him to her; and even if he did find her, she didn''t know if he could save her from Jia Shu.


    But... perhaps due to the trust in Qiu Tu, or perhaps wanting to grab onto the last straw, she still did it...


    ''Qiu Tu... it''s all up to you now.''


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping slowly walked through the corridor with a ghastly pale face and entered Jia Shu''s office.


    What she didn''t know was, at the moment she stepped into Jia Shu''s office, that very corridor where she and Jia Shu had stood opposite each other had the pervasive shadows twist like living creatures gone mad.


    In an instant, a serpent-like shadow silently slid across the ground, then picked up Liu Fuping''s ring and returned to the darkness...


    The darkness was spreading, and in Jia Shu''s office, a ring slowly appeared in his hand...


    ...


    Qiu Tu actually quite enjoyed the solitude of his own nighttime.


    The tranquility of the night always made him feel a deep sense of peace, even his work efficiency seemed much higher.


    After spending about fifteen minutes to archive all the materials of the "Yin Caimei case," Qiu Tu put away the files into the drawer and then prepared to look for Bai Ru.


    Just as he was leaving the office, he ran into his former superior, Chief Zheng Tao of the Interrogation Section.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s expression was noticeably unnatural.


    Today, the news of Qiu Tu''s startling promotion had spread throughout the Investigation Bureau. Even those most politically naive knew that Qiu Tu was on the rise.


    So, despite his reluctance and envy, Zheng Tao still didn''t want to offend Qiu Tu, the new political star of the Investigation Bureau¡ªespecially since the two had had conflicts before.


    Therefore, he awkwardly and insincerely greeted, "Chief Qiu, are you leaving work?"


    After greeting him, Zheng Tao didn''t expect to hear anything pleasant.


    After all, Qiu Tu had never respected him as a boss when he was his subordinate. Now that he had been promoted and was above him, he surely wouldn''t give him any face.


    To his surprise, Qiu Tu actually smiled at him and said warmly, "Yes, Chief Zheng. Are you just finished with work too?" S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This rare show of goodwill from Qiu Tu caught Zheng Tao off guard. His usually stern face couldn''t help but show a trace of surprise.


    He nodded hastily, chuckling, "Yes, just finished. It gets so busy every day."


    Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, saying, "I understand, I understand. After all, it''s only because you work so hard that our Interrogation Section is the most efficient department in the Political Department."


    At that moment, Zheng Tao was even more shocked.


    Honestly, if it weren''t for the fact that assaulting a superior in the Political Department was a crime, he would have loved to crack open Qiu Tu''s skull to see what was going on inside!


    Could a promotion really enlighten someone?!


    If Qiu Tu knew what Zheng Tao was thinking, he would probably just say "You''re overthinking it."


    The reason why he had always been at odds with Zheng Tao was because... Zheng Tao was his boss and had always made him work overtime!


    Not fighting back against a boss who exploited you would only make one miserable, right?


    Now... Zheng Tao was no longer his boss. So whether Zheng Tao was unreasonable or not didn''t concern him anymore. Why then would he still need to be hostile towards Zheng Tao?

 Chapter 182 - 148: After Promotion, Everyone Around is Nice (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    "In this world, there aren''t so many relationships of enmity, it''s just a matter of different statuses."


    "Didn''t you see that with Qiu Tu''s promotion, Zheng Tao had to take the initiative to maintain relations with him?"


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu exchanged simple pleasantries with Zheng Tao before heading to the Guard Room at the Political Department under Zheng Tao''s smile-filled farewell.


    Upon arriving at the Guard Room, Qiu Tu handed over the signed release documents to the on-duty investigator and was then led by that investigator to Bai Ru''s cell.


    After all, Bai Ru was a section chief at the City Hall and also a woman, so she was housed in a small single cell.


    When they arrived at Bai Ru''s cell, the investigator immediately unlocked the door with a key, then gave Qiu Tu a sheepish salute and said, "Chief Qiu, my name is Wang Dawei, I''m a Second-Class Investigator at the Political Department."


    "If you need anything in the future, you can come to me at any time."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked deeply at the investigator and then nodded.


    As Qiu Tu had become the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division, his status in the Investigation Bureau could be said to have shot up drastically. Things like Zheng Tao''s overture of friendship and Wang Dawei''s covert allegiance were only going to become more frequent.


    In the face of these people, Qiu Tu wouldn''t fully accept them but neither would he outright reject them.


    He needed brothers he could trust with his life, like Ah-Tai and Eagle; he needed confidants, and loyal supporters like Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng; and he also needed pawns like Wang Dawei who could be useful when necessary...


    It seemed that a Guard Room investigator like Wang Dawei wasn''t very useful, but with more people like him, it would make any endeavor Qiu Tu undertook incredibly convenient in the future. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu patted Wang Dawei on the shoulder with a smile, "Good. I''ll remember you."


    Wang Dawei''s face immediately showed delight as he hastily gave Qiu Tu another salute.


    Pushing open the door of the cell, Bai Ru was sitting in front of a table, lost in thought with her chin propped up on her hands.


    The fragile woman seemed to have guessed the fate of her father and husband, so her eyes were filled with sorrow, which was heartbreaking to behold.


    Since Bai Ru was confirmed not to be a criminal, Qiu Tu did not manhandle her but instead gave her ample respect.


    He pulled out another chair, sat down, and quietly kept Bai Ru company by her side.


    Perhaps noticing that the door to the cell had not been closed, or sensing something different about Qiu Tu compared to other days, Bai Ru looked up timidly, glanced at Qiu Tu, and ventured to ask, "Is... has there been a result for the case?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu responded in a somber tone, "Hmm."


    Bai Ru swallowed nervously and with trembling hands, gently grabbed Qiu Tu''s arm, looking at him with a pleading gaze.


    Qiu Tu understood Bai Ru''s meaning: she simply wanted a positive outcome from his mouth.


    But Qiu Tu also knew that even if he lied to Bai Ru now, she would still find out the truth after leaving the cell.


    So he let out a slight sigh and slowly shook his head.


    At that moment, Bai Ru''s eyes instantly reddened, and tears began to fall drop by drop.


    This indeed was a woman who had been pampered since childhood, had not suffered much hardship, delicate like a tender flower, unable to withstand the trial of any storm...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quietly explained, "Your father, Director Bai, despite knowing that Old Master Qin was colluding with the Evil God, still facilitated Old Master Qin''s various actions. Therefore, he has been convicted of ''crimes against humanity'' and sentenced to death."


    "Your husband, Qian Dafu, while having collusive dealings with the Anti-government Armed Forces, continued to assist the Qin Family in cooperation with the Anti-government Armed Forces and even actively collaborated with them. Therefore, he has been convicted of ''treason'' and sentenced to life imprisonment."


    Hearing Qiu Tu disclose the fates of her two closest family members, Bai Ru could no longer hold back her tears and burst into loud sobbing.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed, handed her a tissue, and gently patted Bai Ru''s frail back.


    The "Inner Protector" might indeed be incredibly fragile; Bai Ru continued to cry for more than ten minutes before slowly stopping her tears with Qiu Tu''s comfort.


    Even so, her face was tear-streaked, her eyes red and swollen. However, her tearful appearance made her look even more pitiful and endearing.


    She was a woman whose appearance might only be considered fine, but her temperament was indeed strikingly memorable.


    So there he stayed, accompanying and comforting Bai Ru for more than ten minutes.


    When Bai Ru''s emotions had stabilized, Qiu Tu then led her out of the cell.


    Taking the elevator to the lobby on the first floor of the Investigation Bureau Office Building, he escorted Bai Ru to the entrance of the building.


    Looking at the pitch-black night, Qiu Tu stood firm, left her with his Communicator number, and cautioned, "Section Chief Bai, I will only see you off this far and will not continue. The situation in Xinjie City is a bit chaotic right now."


    "Many gang members or Evil God Cultists are on the move."


    "So... if there''s anything, you can call me. As long as I have time, I will definitely come over to help."


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ru lowered her head, clutching the communicator in her hand, with no clue whether she was really listening.


    After a moment, she slowly nodded her head, then with a pale face, she walked towards the darkness...


    Watching Bai Ru''s bowed figure walking away, the gentle smile on Qiu Tu''s face slowly faded: he knew... Bai Ru would come looking for him again. And he would certainly see this woman again...


    After all, this woman was not only the key to unlocking the secrets of Larilo but also bait laid out by Qiu Tu...


    Now that the bait had been cast, it was up to fate when the harvest would be.


    Of course, Qiu Tu also admitted: he did indeed crave the body of this woman with a unique temperament...


    However, he was not in a hurry. Only by casting a long line could he catch a big fish...


    He had other fish to eat tonight, he wasn''t eager to eat this particular one.


    Thinking this, as Bai Ru completely disappeared from his view, Qiu Tu slowly withdrew his gaze.


    He took out his communicator and checked the time; it was already approaching 10 p.m.


    ''It''s time to meet with Tang Feifei.''


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu left the Investigation Bureau and headed to the sedan that Qin Zhengguang had given him, ready to ''eat fish.''


    But just as he stepped out of the Investigation Bureau Office Building, and hadn''t walked a few steps, suddenly, a dark shadow flew towards him...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    In Jia Shu''s office.


    Liu Fuping, fully clothed, was bound hand and foot on an autopsy table raised in the middle of the room.


    Jia Shu, with his back to her, was putting on rubber gloves, saying with a half-smile,


    "Fuping... actually, I''ve always thought highly of you. I even considered promoting you to First Level Detective, or even Deputy Chief of the Interrogation Section, several times."


    After donning the rubber gloves, Jia Shu bent over and continued choosing a surgical knife,


    "Unfortunately... while you are indeed capable, your stance always seems to waver."


    "You were someone I personally trained, yet you grew so close to Tang Fei, even to the point where the nature of your relationship is unclear."


    "This has truly disappointed me."


    As he spoke, Jia Shu picked up a surgical knife, held it up against the light to inspect it and nodded in satisfaction.


    "But, I didn''t give up on you just like that. Instead, I''ve always given you opportunities and observed you."


    "What surprised me, though, the more I observed, the more I realized something was off."


    "You seem to not only be interested in Tang Fei but are interested in anything to do with the Bureau Chief."


    "Like a month ago, when the Bureau Chief casually criticized Deputy Chief Liu Feng of the Action Division, you immediately made secret contact with him."


    "Or when a rumor about the Bureau Chief was inadvertently spread within the bureau, you also immediately gathered information and investigated."


    "Even... with Qiu Tu. Didn''t your initial enthusiasm towards him and your ambiguous relationship stem from the rumor that he was the Bureau Chief''s confidant?"


    Having said this, Jia Shu paused a moment.


    Then he turned around with a smile, surgical knife in hand, and slowly approached Liu Fuping.


    Liu Fuping was tied to the autopsy table, her face full of terror as she watched him, continuously shaking her head.


    -------


    Old rule, 30,000 words for three chapters. The third chapter will be released at 19:00. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 183 - 149: Saving Liu Fuping (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```


    Jia Shu, however, was as if he hadn''t seen Liu Fuping''s struggle, his face piled with a false smile.


    "But what really confirmed for me that you were a spy was the night of ''Yin Caimei''s Death''."


    "The life or death of Yin Caimei wasn''t actually that important, but it was a good opportunity to test for moles within the Investigation Bureau."


    "So... I deliberately exaggerated the impact of ''Yin Caimei''s Death'' at the senior meeting of the Investigation Bureau and covered up the cause of Yin Caimei''s death. I wanted to see how many moles it would draw out."


    "What I did not expect was that you were the first one to be stirred..."


    As he spoke, Jia Shu''s face showed his disappointment, "Although you are a skilled interrogator, you''re indeed not cut out to be a spy."


    "You are too impatient and too restless."


    "A minor piece of intelligence, a small test, and you completely lost your composure. This isn''t the quality a competent spy should have..."


    Saying this, Jia Shu''s scalpel traced a few lines across Liu Fuping''s exquisitely beautiful face, "So... following the information and issues you exposed."


    "I just did a simple check, and I found out your real identity."


    "Previously, because the ''Yin Caimei Case'' wasn''t closed, it wasn''t convenient for me to take action against you."


    "Now that the ''Yin Caimei Case'' has ended completely, I can finally relax..."


    As he said this, Jia Shu''s scalpel drew a graceful arc, as if sculpting art, heading towards Liu Fuping''s delicate wrist¡ªit appeared that Jia Shu intended to bleed Liu Fuping while slowly dissecting her...


    At this critical moment.


    Suddenly! The door of Jia Shu''s office was violently pushed open from the outside!


    With a "bang," the door heavily struck the wall.


    The hand holding the scalpel came to a slow halt, without even a hint of a tremble.


    The smile on his face faded as he turned around slowly to see who had come.


    The visitor turned out to be... Qiu Tu, who had already left the Investigation Bureau building but returned unexpectedly!


    Seeing Qiu Tu, there wasn''t much surprise on Jia Shu''s face.


    He adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses and asked with a feigned smile, "Chief Qiu... oh, I mean, Chief Qiu. Shouldn''t you give me an explanation for bursting into my office in the middle of the night?"


    Upon hearing Jia Shu''s words, Qiu Tu smiled, seeming to have a kind of reckless fearlessness.


    He did not respond to Jia Shu''s question but instead pointed at Liu Fuping, who was tied to the dissection table, and countered, "Then... shouldn''t the minister explain why he tied up my subordinate on the dissection table in the middle of the night?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s sharp response, a mocking smile appeared on Jia Shu''s face; his eyes hidden behind glasses were full of amusement, "Certainly."


    He pointed at Liu Fuping on the dissection table, "This subordinate of yours is a spy. I am interrogating her now..."


    Qiu Tu heard this and shook his head.


    He said, "Minister, that''s exactly why I''ve come to see you."


    "You might have misunderstood; Agent Liu is not a spy."


    "Misunderstood?" A curious look flashed in Jia Shu''s eyes, "How have I misunderstood?"


    The bright lights in the room cast more shadows, making the entire room seem to be divided and crisscrossed by light and shadow, appearing exceptionally eerie and magnificent.


    Qiu Tu slowly walked over to Liu Fuping, holding her while saying, "Are you trying to say that Agent Liu is a spy arranged by the Political Department of the Eastern City District?"


    Jia Shu regarded Qiu Tu noncommittally.


    Qiu Tu said, "That indeed was Agent Liu''s previous identity."


    "Oh?" Jia Shu adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, watching Qiu Tu with a semblance of a smile, "Her previous identity? Does she have a new one now?"


    The shadows in the room seemed to spread slowly...


    Liu Fuping, sensing the impending danger, widened her eyes and shook her head at Qiu Tu, as if signaling him to leave quickly.


    But... Qiu Tu, as if unaware of anything, confidently said, "Yes."


    "Because... during the ''Yin Caimei Case,'' I turned Agent Liu. I made her a double agent."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu laughed, "Chief Qiu, do I need to remind you that even if you really cultivated or turned a spy, you would still need formal documentation on file?"


    "And with your prior rank, you weren''t authorized to plant spies, were you?"


    Qiu Tu retained an utmost calm expression. While unlocking the handcuffs on Liu Fuping, he smiled and replied, "You''re right to remind me, minister."


    "So, I didn''t plan to directly authorize her as a double agent myself at that time."


    "I was preparing to report to you and apply for it."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu went to the foot of the table and unlocked Liu Fuping''s shackles, "But then, who would''ve thought that tonight, I would be promoted."


    "And with my position, I just happen to have the authority to plant spies."


    "So... I simply wrote an Authorization Letter myself and created a spy profile for Agent Liu."


    With that, Qiu Tu produced a document and showed it in front of Jia Shu.


    Jia Shu glanced at it, and indeed it was a legal spy profile with Liu Fuping''s signature on it...


    After showing the document, Qiu Tu quickly put the document away and then said, "But... I didn''t expect that in just a short hour or two, the minister would have taken away my spy."


    ```


    ```


    "So... In my haste, I barged into the minister''s office."


    "That was indeed wrong of me,"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu slightly bowed to Jia Shu and said earnestly, "So... please punish me, Minister!"


    At this moment, Liu Fuping, whose handcuffs and shackles Qiu Tu had undone, had already hidden behind the bent figure of Qiu Tu.


    She clasped Qiu Tu''s clothes tightly with both hands, nervously watching the covert struggle between the two men.


    Seeing Qiu Tu bow to admit his fault, Jia Shu said nothing. He just looked at Qiu Tu, quietly watching...


    After about five or six seconds, a smile suddenly blossomed on his face.


    Then he threw the scalpel into the tray, took off the rubber gloves, and helped Qiu Tu to his feet, saying with a forced smile, "Chief Qiu, you make too much of it."


    "What is there to punish? It''s all a misunderstanding," he said.


    As he spoke, he glanced at Liu Fuping and said with a smirk, "Additionally, Agent Liu, I have a criticism for you too."


    "Since you''re already one of us, you should have taken the initiative to reveal your identity."


    "By staying silent, aren''t you deliberately causing misunderstandings between Chief Qiu and me?"


    Facing the perverted Jia Shu, Liu Fuping was genuinely afraid. So although she wanted to help Qiu Tu smooth things over, she opened her mouth several times but still couldn''t speak.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also conveniently said with a smile, "Minister, you can''t blame Agent Liu. Look, she can''t even speak right now."


    "After all, who doesn''t know of the Minister''s reputation in Xinjie City?"


    "Haha." Listening to Qiu Tu''s compliments, Jia Shu laughed hollowly twice.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t dare linger and timely suggested leaving, "Then Minister, if there''s nothing else, we''ll be leaving now. There''s still a pile of work to be busy with."


    Upon hearing this, Jia Shu casually picked up a remote control and pressed a button. Then, watching the autopsy table slowly lower, he said with a fake smile, "Go ahead, go ahead."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu grabbed Liu Fuping''s hand and then walked briskly out of Jia Shu''s office without looking back...


    After Qiu Tu left, the autopsy table fully descended.


    With his back to the office door, Jia Shu''s eyes had turned completely crimson...


    A sick smile appeared on his face, "Hehehe. The fruit has finally ripened...."


    "I really must thank the Bureau Chief and Liu Fuping, hehehe...."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Having left Jia Shu''s office, Qiu Tu started sprinting with Liu Fuping in tow.


    Only when they had exited the ninth floor and stepped into the elevator did Qiu Tu finally heave a sigh of relief.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s reaction, the color slowly returned to Liu Fuping''s pale face, and her body gradually regained sensation.


    She bit her flaming red lip and gazed at Qiu Tu with her lovely eyes, asking softly, "Did you... see the ring I dropped?"


    "Ring? What ring?" Qiu Tu took a few deep breaths before looking at Liu Fuping with a puzzled expression.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping seemed puzzled, "The ring... the one I was wearing today."


    "You didn''t see the ring I dropped? Then how did you... know something happened to me?"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s question, Qiu Tu chuckled and flirtatiously replied, "What else could it be, it''s because of our hearts being in sync, of course...."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping smiled and gave him a gentle slap, "Still, the chief has a way with words."


    Looking at Liu Fuping''s gradually normalizing state, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned somewhat distant...


    In truth, the reason he was able to come to Liu Fuping''s rescue was really just a coincidence.


    It was yesterday morning, which was Sunday.


    When Liu Fuping took Qiu Tu to meet Jia Shu, Qiu Tu had experimented on her with a Cataclysmic Creature he obtained from the "Salvage Game" - the Silver Key Beehive!


    This Cataclysmic Creature could follow, monitor, and record everything that happened to a target object or creature for 36 hours.


    When Qiu Tu used it, it happened to be 10:30 a.m. (Chapter 130)


    And tonight, when Qiu Tu calmed Bai Ru down and escorted her out of the Investigation Bureau building, it was exactly 10:30 p.m., which was 36 hours after he used the Cataclysmic Creature.


    So... as Qiu Tu was preparing to drive to find Tang Feifei, the Silver Key Bee returned to him from Liu Fuping.


    Since it was his first time testing this Cataclysmic Creature, Qiu Tu, who was sitting in the car, became curious and checked what Liu Fuping had done over the past day and a half.


    As a result... he happened to see the scenes of Liu Fuping being taken away and threatened by Jia Shu...


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was truly shocked.


    He was hesitant about whether or not to take the risk to rescue Liu Fuping.


    But then... a detail in the footage involving Jia Shu made Qiu Tu decide to act.


    -------


    Old rules, three chapters at 10,000 words each. The third chapter will be posted at 19:00. Begging for Monthly Tickets!


    ```


    Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 185 - 151: A Night with Liu Fuping (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```


    Thinking like this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but tilt his head to look at Liu Fuping''s retreating figure.


    The beautiful young woman seemed to have really prepared for something, even her way of walking was different¡ªas if she was a bit sneaky, and yet somewhat shy. Despite being in her own home, she was tiptoeing as quietly as possible.


    Perhaps accustomed to Liu Fuping''s usual carefree manner and the back-and-forth interactions with him, Qiu Tu found himself somewhat unaccustomed to this state of hers!


    Watching Liu Fuping go into the Shuigu Room, Qiu Tu lay on the couch, gazing at the ceiling, pondering over what this all meant....


    Could this be the legendary "repaying a life-saving debt with one''s body"?


    Tsk, isn''t that quite thrilling?


    And while Qiu Tu was indulging in wild thoughts, the sound of "swish swash" of water also came from the Shuigu Room.


    Hearing that suggestive sound, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then suddenly sat up from the couch, no longer able to lie down.


    He tiptoed to the door, ready to catch a breeze at the Shuigu Room.


    To go to the bathroom, he had to pass the main entrance. But just as he reached the door, Qiu Tu froze for a second.


    Because... he discovered that the riding boots he had just placed at the door were gone!


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment then looked up at the clothes rack by the door. His jacket, which he had just hung there... was also gone.


    Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then a smile curved on his lips. Suddenly, things felt a bit interesting....


    And at that moment, the bathroom door was also opened from inside by Liu Fuping.


    Liu Fuping peeked out, her beautiful eyes looking at Qiu Tu, and asked, "What are you doing standing at the entrance?"


    Qiu Tu let out an "Ah?" and explained, "Nothing. Just wandering around."


    Liu Fuping made an "Mmm" and then, with a shy glance at Qiu Tu, she said softly, "I noticed your clothes were a bit dirty, and your boots hadn''t been cleaned for a while."


    "So I''ve washed both your clothes and boots."


    "They should be dry by tomorrow...."


    With that, she lifted her gaze, looking warmly at Qiu Tu.


    When Qiu Tu saw his boots and clothes missing earlier, he guessed this might happen. So he responded to Liu Fuping with an eager look, "I think they might just be able to ''dry'' tonight."


    Qiu Tu placed emphasis on the word "dry". Hearing this, Liu Fuping bit her lip and coyly rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu before slipping back into the bathroom.


    With both man and woman willing, Qiu Tu didn''t bother to pretend anymore.


    He cleared his throat, stepped forward, and knocked on the door, asking, "Sister Liu, you''ve helped me wash my clothes and clean my shoes."


    "I''m feeling a bit guilty, how about I help you wash wash as well?"


    A muffled giggle from Liu Fuping came from the bathroom, "What could you help me wash?"


    Qiu Tu, thick-faced, insisted, "Anything, really. I can help you scrub your back, scrub the front, scrub your legs¡ªall possible."


    "I''m strong, I can endure hardship, and I''m not tired easily!"


    Saying this, and perhaps worried Liu Fuping wouldn''t believe him, he assured spiritedly, "Really!"


    The bathroom grew silent, save for the continual swish of the water.


    For any ordinary person facing this situation, they would mostly think they''ve been rejected. But a seasoned player like Qiu Tu knew... this was consent!


    With the atmosphere already set, do you really need a girl to tell you what you can do before you do it? S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    When would you ever get to the meat of the matter then!


    So, Qiu Tu coughed and added, "Sister Liu, if you don''t say anything, I''ll take it as a yes."


    With that, Qiu Tu reached out and pushed open the bathroom door.


    As expected, the bathroom door wasn''t locked; it swung open with just a push.


    As the bathroom door opened, a dense steam immediately spilled out.


    Qiu Tu walked in, feeling as if he had entered a fairyland, surrounded by mist everywhere.


    Through the hazy fog, he could barely see Liu Fuping''s silhouette, faint and elusive.


    Qiu Tu smiled, closed the door, and then walked towards that direction.


    Before he could even get close, the showerhead suddenly sprayed water at him.


    Qiu Tu couldn''t dodge in time, and his clothes were instantly soaked; the giggles of Liu Fuping also reached his ears.


    Could Qiu Tu swallow this defeat?!


    Provoked by his subordinate, he was "greatly enraged" and decided to show this unruly subordinate, Liu Fuping, the authority of his position as her superior....


    ....


    ....


    An hour later.


    The storm had passed.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping lay in bed, snuggled up to each other.


    The triumphant Qiu Tu wrapped his arms around Liu Fuping, and while smoking a cigarette, he also started discussing serious matters.


    "Sister Liu, is there any intelligence related to ''God'' in Eastern City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping struggled to sit up, glanced at Qiu Tu and asked, "Intelligence related to ''God''?"


    "Are you referring to the ''God'' that Old Master Qin mentioned?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a "Mmm".


    With Liu Fuping''s loyalty now skyrocketing to 95, and given their current relationship, of course, she would not keep any secrets.


    So upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she hesitated, then disclosed, "I might have really heard something about ''God''."


    She said, "I once heard it from an elder... Ah, a senior."


    "He said that, in fact... ''God'' is not far from ordinary people."


    "In an era where the Spirit World and the physical world are mutually influential, the material can affect the spirit, and the spirit can affect the material."


    "Therefore... the thoughts and desires of all living beings may catalyze the emergence of Cataclysmic Creatures in the Spirit World."


    "Among these, Cataclysmic Creatures spawned by several of the most common human desires are particularly numerous."


    "Common desires?" Qiu Tu asked with interest.


    Liu Fuping nodded, "Yes."


    ```


    "For example: jealousy, greed, lust, and so on,"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu fell into thought for a moment, then couldn''t help asking, "These all seem to be negative?"


    Liu Fuping hummed in agreement and said, "Yes. That''s because... negative emotions tend to gather more easily."


    Qiu Tu pondered for a while and felt that it made sense.


    Indeed, many times, people''s positive emotions are far less intense than their negative ones.


    He hesitated for a moment, then said, "So... the ''God'' that Old Master Qin worships is very likely born from humanity''s own lust?"


    Liu Fuping nodded again, "It''s very possible."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "What about your relative, has he ever mentioned how to deal with such High Order cataclysmic creatures?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping hesitated and then slowly shook her head, "No."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was a bit disappointed, she couldn''t help but add, "But, I can find time to contact him and ask if there is a way."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu happily hugged Liu Fuping and planted a kiss on her with a smack!


    Caught off guard by Qiu Tu''s sudden attack, Liu Fuping''s beautiful eyes instantly misted over, her gaze hazy and all the more enticing.


    She didn''t say a word, but it seemed as if a thousand words were conveyed in her eyes.


    Qiu Tu read the message in her eyes and, unwilling to be outdone, ascended once more...


    It was as if the moon had blushed, shyly pulling the clouds to cover the sky.


    This made Xinjie City, already shrouded in darkness, seem even darker by a third...


    And in the night of Xinjie City, where Order had not yet fully recovered, many were taking the opportunity to move about in secret...


    While engrossed in hard work, Qiu Tu sometimes felt as if he and Liu Fuping had forgotten something, but he couldn''t recall what it was...


    Meanwhile.


    At Tang Feifei''s private villa. Holding a glass of wine, Tang Feifei sipped lightly while patiently waiting for Qiu Tu...


    A silent night passed.


    The next morning, Liu Fuping got up from bed, her body aching all over.


    Seeing the marks that covered her body and recalling last night''s "protracted battle," she couldn''t help but smile.


    She tidied her hair and got up to take a bath...


    But no sooner had she stepped out of the bedroom than her Communicator started to buzz.


    Liu Fuping walked over to the sofa and fished out her Communicator from her uniform pocket to take a look.


    At that glance, her expression changed dramatically.


    Because the call was from Tang Feifei!


    Liu Fuping didn''t pick up immediately but first opened her contact list to check.


    Then she discovered that Tang Feifei had called her countless times throughout the night.


    At that moment, Liu Fuping truly felt like she had been caught in an affair.


    So she quickly racked her brain, thinking of what to say.


    After silently contemplating for a few seconds, Liu Fuping took a deep breath and answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, Tang Feifei''s distant voice came through, "Where were you last night?"


    Women are masters of acting, so Liu Fuping feigned a yawn and said, "Where else could I be? Of course, I was at home."


    After speaking, Liu Fuping counter-asked, "What''s happened? Is there some kind of problem?"


    Tang Feifei spoke gravely, "Qiu Tu didn''t come to see me last night."


    "I didn''t dare contact him rashly and it wasn''t convenient to send someone to inquire, so I was a bit worried."


    Liu Fuping keenly caught the slip in Tang Feifei''s words, "Worried?"


    Before she could press further, Tang Feifei quickly filled the gap, "Yes. He and I were preparing to deal with Jia Shu, I''m worried that Jia Shu might have acted against him beforehand."


    "In which case, I might lose an important ally."


    This reason seemed reasonable enough. And, compared to Tang Feifei, Liu Fuping, who had just been intimate with Qiu Tu last night, clearly felt guiltier.


    So she didn''t continue to fixate on this minor issue but instead said, "I''ll give him a call and ask about the situation."


    Tang Feifei hummed in response.


    Just when Liu Fuping thought the call was over, Tang Feifei suddenly asked another question, "Did you see Qiu Tu after you spoke to me on the phone last night?"


    Hearing this crucial question, Liu Fuping was at a loss for an answer.


    After all, she didn''t know whether Tang Feifei was onto something...


    So, after carefully considering for a moment, she finally said, "I did see him. Jia Shu sought me out last night, and when I left, I bumped into him. He was heading out."


    Tang Feifei responded with a cool "Hmm" and hung up the phone.


    ''Something is off about her.''


    ''Something is off about her...?''


    After hanging up, the two women who once shared an extremely intimate relationship held their Communicators with a glimmer of suspicion in their eyes.


    Both knew each other too well, as well as how they treated their ordinary colleagues.


    And both Tang Feifei''s unusual concern and Liu Fuping''s slightly concealing demeanor seemed a bit different from usual.


    However, perhaps because they themselves were the "guilty" party, they couldn''t be sure if they were just seeing dirt in everything they perceived as "heartfelt."


    So... after hesitating, both women suppressed their doubts, preparing to use their own means to probe a bit further...


    At this time, Qiu Tu was unaware that the two women with whom he had shared intimate relations were starting to doubt the purity of their relationships with him.


    Right now, he had just woken up from sleep.


    Perhaps the constitution of Cataclysmics truly surpasses that of ordinary people since he was still full of vitality despite having slept for only four hours.


    Lying on Liu Fuping''s big bed, Qiu Tu didn''t idle. He took this spare time to start tallying up his recent haul of loot!


    -----


    I was blocked again. Then I took a long time to make some changes. I reduced some details, but it does not affect the overall plot.


    Today, as usual, three chapters of 10,000 words. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00. Seeking Monthly Tickets, seeking subscriptions!

 Chapter 186 - 152: Inventory of recent gains! (10,000 words asking for subscriptions!)

    Qiu Tu had a rather fruitful period recently.


    And his gains mainly came from three sources.


    The first source of gain was the "fixed harvest."


    Since the second Golden Finger "Loyalty Game" was activated, Qiu Tu had a steady source of gains.


    During this time, through the two mini-games of the "Loyalty Game," Qiu Tu also obtained quite a few good items.


    Especially the "Salvage Game."


    This game allowed Qiu Tu to obtain Cataclysmic Material, Cataclysmic treasures, or Cataclysmic Creatures that exist in reality.


    The only limitation was that the loyalty of his subordinates had to be above 90, and it could only be played once every seven days.


    Therefore, in the past few days, Qiu Tu had only Ah-Tai, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Ah-Xiong, and Liu Fuping play this game.


    Ah-Tai salvaged a Cataclysmic treasure called the "Mandragora Love Drug," Eagle salvaged the "Seal of ownership," and Ah-Kun salvaged the "Silver Key Beehive."


    As for the rewards Ah-Xiong and Liu Fuping salvaged, they were a bit different.


    Ah-Xiong brought up Cataclysmic Material called "Nameless Stele Powder."


    ''Nameless Stele Powder: One of the key Cataclysm Materials. Just match it with other materials, and you can create Cataclysmic treasures like the "Skull Talisman" or "Old Seal"...''


    As for the Cataclysmic Material Liu Fuping brought up, it was even more special.


    ''Overflowing Cataclysmic''s Spiritual entity: One of the very special Cataclysm Materials. It contains the power source of a Cataclysmic.


    ''If you integrate it into the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion, the success rate of awakening will get infinitely close to 100%. However... it can only awaken the path and abilities of this particular Cataclysmic''s Spiritual entity.''


    ''Note: the path this Cataclysmic''s Spiritual entity follows is "Mystery", and the Cataclysmic ability it possesses is "Shadow Walking".''


    Besides the "Salvage Game," in the past few days of the "Combat Game," Qiu Tu still chose to fight against Wang Xi. Unfortunately, Wang Xi evolved rapidly during this period, and his subordinates sent to fight against Wang Xi could only claim some wins and some losses.


    So, he only got two small Memory fragments.


    The first one, Qiu Tu had already seen, which was the scene where the Masked Man in Suit slaughtered that wealthy businessman.


    The second one was the Memory fragment that Ah-Tai won by fighting desperately last night.


    Qiu Tu kept it for now, planning to check it when he had time today.


    Besides "fixed harvest,"


    Qiu Tu''s second source of gains was the "Countdown rewards."


    The resolution of Yin Caimei''s case turned all three of Qiu Tu''s countdown hourglasses into Treasure Chests.


    The first was the one-minute timed countdown when Jia Shu suspected him. (Chapter 110)


    The second was "Danger in the Dark."


    The third, of course, was "Yin Caimei''s case closure time."


    Because Qiu Tu had been busy earlier, he didn''t have time to check these three hourglasses.


    This time, taking the opportunity when he had a moment, he started to investigate the rewards for these three Crisis Countdowns.


    The reward for the first Crisis Countdown was named "Defying Fate Scales," which, as described, is a precious Cataclysmic Material shed from a High Order catastrophized creature.


    Qiu Tu remembered seeing this material on the potion formula of the Masked Man in Suit as well...


    The second and third Crisis Countdowns, perhaps because they were more difficult, had considerably richer rewards¡ªtwo Cataclysmic treasures.


    One was called "Uncompromising Simulacrum," and the other was "Ghostly Map"...


    Apart from the substantial rewards provided by the two Golden Fingers, Qiu Tu''s third source of gains came from the Cataclysmic he had killed.


    From Old Master Qin, Qiu Tu had already learned that the Cataclysmic''s name was Lone Wolf, a killer with Cataclysmic ability.


    More importantly, Qiu Tu found three items on Lone Wolf''s body.


    A dagger, a slightly odd small box, and a coin that looked a bit antiquated.


    The dagger, according to Old Master Qin, was an ordinary object, simply sharper than usual, capable of cutting through iron like mud.


    But the small box and the coin each had their own stories.


    According to Old Master Qin, inside the small box was a Cataclysmic Creature called "Heart-Connecting Silkworm."


    It''s a creature similar in appearance to a silkworm with the ability to spin silk.


    But the silk it spins is not suited for making clothes; instead, it can be placed within the heart of any living being within 10 meters, establishing a psychic link.


    The two people who establish this link can converse in their minds without making a sound.


    Lone Wolf was able to communicate secretly with Old Master Qin by using the silk spun by this Cataclysmic Creature.


    As for the coin, according to Old Master Qin, he wasn''t sure of its purpose. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... Lone Wolf obtained that coin after his first interaction with ''Larilo.''


    Supposedly, as long as he had this coin, Lone Wolf could be under Larilo''s divine protection.


    Old Master Qin actually tried several times to get this coin from Lone Wolf but was afraid of angering the deity, so he had to give up the idea.


    As it turned out, after all the twists and turns, the coin ended up in Qiu Tu''s hands.


    Beyond the collection of Cataclysmic Material, Cataclysmic treasures, and Cataclysmic Creatures, Qiu Tu still had many promises and resources from Qin Shuman that he hadn''t had the chance to exchange yet.


    These included money, talent, intelligence, and more.


    And more importantly, as Qiu Tu advanced in his position, it seemed his Cataclysmic ability... also improved?


    It was just that since he had been busy since last night up until now, he hadn''t had the time to comprehend and thus was temporarily unaware of the changes...


    One could say... that the Yin Caimei case had made Qiu Tu utterly wealthy! He had completed his initial capital accumulation!


    ''Indeed... if you want to get rich quick, you have to bite off more than you can chew!'' he thought.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also quietly tucked away all the gains he had made during this time.


    Then he crossed his hands behind his head, contentedly lay on the bed, and took another rest.


    Once his mood had settled, Qiu Tu, smelling the lingering scent of Liu Fuping beside him, suddenly felt his interest piqued.


    So, he got out of bed, went to the bathroom shaking it off, and pressed Liu Fuping, who was squatting and brushing her teeth, onto the washbasin, and went "up and down" a few more times...


    In this manner, time passed until dawn.


    Qiu Tu finally spared her amidst the pleas of Liu Fuping...


    and took her along to the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Qiu Tu did a simple induction at the Action Division, then proactively met with the chief and deputy chief of the division to get acquainted.


    Since they all knew that Qiu Tu was only on secondment at the Action Division and had no direct conflicts of interest, the meeting was very pleasant.


    After all this, Qiu Tu left the Political Department and headed to the Public Security Bureau on the second floor, ready to take over the investigation team for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    Public Security Bureau, as one of the largest departments of the Investigation Bureau, could only be said to have an average status, which was evident from the fact that they were only situated on the second floor of the office building.


    The main function of the Public Security Bureau was to fund and manage the public security offices of the various streets. Thus, maintaining public security and dealing with trivial matters were their primary duties.


    But... this also meant that they were somewhat at a loss when it came to major cases.


    Therefore, Cui Daren, the chief of the Xiafang Street Public Security Bureau, was right; the entire investigative team for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" was looking forward to Qiu Tu''s arrival.


    This allowed Qiu Tu to fit in without any issues after joining the investigative team.


    Also, because Qiu Tu was now seen as the savior of the Public Security Bureau, he smoothly filed an application to bring Liu Fuping, Song Qing, Wang Xi, and the two groups of confidants Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng from the Action Division and the Interrogation Section...


    With this, the investigation team for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" was officially established...


    ...


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu finished tallying his gains and was eagerly preparing for a big showdown,


    At the military''s Security Department Investigation Department,


    Lin Zuo was also on the phone with someone.


    "What did you say? You''ve found the target?"


    Lin Zuo asked coldly, "Are you sure you''re not mistaken? Is it a black suit, red hair, and wearing a mask?"


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s question, the man on the other end of the phone dragged out his voice, sounding sly, "Boss, we might dare to deceive the Investigation Bureau, but we''d never dare to lie to the military~~!"


    "You guys would actually dare to shoot us dead~~"


    "And, I, Fatty Fish, am also a person of some standing in Xinjie City, why would I give you false information!"


    "I know it seems a bit coincidental, but... it really just happened like that~~"


    "The person you''re looking for has been frequenting our bar these days. Red hair, black suit. Such a conspicuous outfit, how could we not recognize him!"


    Hearing Fatty Fish''s words, Lin Zuo said expressionlessly, "Alright."


    "Then keep a close watch on him! Don''t let him get away! I''m going to report to the higher-ups right now!"


    After saying that, Lin Zuo hung up the phone and walked toward Qin Shuman''s office.


    Arriving at Qin Shuman''s office door, Lin Zuo knocked, and Qin Shuman''s stern voice immediately followed, "Come in!"


    Lin Zuo pushed the door open, and Qin Shuman inside was seriously looking through some documents.


    Seeing Lin Zuo enter, Qin Shuman looked up at him and asked, "What''s happened?"


    Lin Zuo stood up straight and then replied, "Section Chief, the target that Qiu Tu asked us to help find a few days ago has been located!"


    "Our informer from the Fatty Fish Bar, Fatty Fish, says that the man with the red hair and the black suit has been frequenting his bar in the past few days, leaving with one or two women each time."


    "He went there again just after lunch today, the bar had just opened. But this time, he wasn''t alone; he was with a woman in her twenties, almost thirty, with a gentle demeanor."


    "Shall we move in now?"


    -----


    The previous chapter was blocked, and it took a long time to revise before it was released. It''s unclear if it may be blocked again at any moment. If it suddenly disappears, it has been blocked again. Just wait a bit.


    The usual rule: 3 chapters, 10,000 words. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00. Ask for Monthly Tickets, ask for subscriptions!

 Chapter 187 - 153: Qin Shuman Gets Promoted (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qin Shuman sat in her chair and pondered, while twirling a pen with her slender fingers.


    After a moment, her pen stopped moving, and she had already made up her mind. She said, "Take people now and keep watch near that bar. Tighten the net on our target without rousing their suspicion."


    "I''ll first give Qiu Tu a call to discuss this matter."


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Lin Zuo did not immediately comply.


    A slight twitch crossed his expressionless face before he looked at Qin Shuman and spoke bluntly,


    "Section Chief, I might be overstepping by saying this. But... I still want to remind you. Your relationship with Qiu Tu could very well be affecting the normal operations of our department and section."


    "Why do we have to consult the opinion of a section chief from the Investigation Bureau when we are supposed to be apprehending someone in the Security Department?"


    "Don''t you find it a bit ridiculous?"


    As his words were spoken, the atmosphere in the office suddenly cooled.


    Qin Shuman''s expression gradually hardened. She set the pen down heavily on the desk, then looked up expressionlessly at Lin Zuo.


    One second, two seconds...


    Just as the atmosphere in the office grew heavier, Qin Shuman finally spoke slowly, "Lin Zuo, are you questioning my professionalism and my stance?"


    Lin Zuo was as stubborn as a rock in a cesspool, both smelly and hard. He showed no fear of the pressure exerted by Qin Shuman and continued with a serious face, "Yes, Section Chief."


    Qin Shuman exhaled sharply, then said expressionlessly, "To convince you wholeheartedly, I can explain my thoughts to you."


    "But I must warn you, this is the first time, and the last! I don''t want to hear anything similar in the future!"


    Having said that, Qin Shuman stood up with a serious expression.


    Dressed in a green military uniform and black boots, she looked gallant and commanding.


    She took a couple of steps in the office with a "tap tap" of her boots, then continued expressionlessly, "First of all, Qiu Tu is not an outsider. You might have forgotten that although he is currently a section chief in the Investigation Bureau, he is also our Security Department''s Captain!"


    "As comrades on the same side, we need to consider his position and the environment he''s in when dealing with certain affairs. We should coordinate as much as possible with him to avoid causing him any adverse effects by acting on our own."


    "Second, the lead on this case was provided by Qiu Tu."


    "Although we in the Security Department have the authority to take over a case involving Cataclysmic Creatures of this level, if the other party cooperates well with us and it does not affect the case, we can certainly continue this cooperation to avoid any unnecessary complications."


    "Finally, and most importantly,"


    Qin Shuman paced by the window with a serious face and said, "Have you ever considered why Qiu Tu has so much information that even our Investigation Department and Security Department, let alone the Investigation Bureau, doesn''t have?"


    Qin Shuman gave examples, "Old Master Qin''s identity, Larilo, the Masked Man in Suit, the details of the bizarre ritual?"


    If Lin Zuo had shown no reaction to Qin Shuman''s previous explanations, upon hearing this, his gaze began to fluctuate slightly.


    A look of realization appeared on his face, and then he tentatively asked, "You suspect... that he''s actually an Evil God Cultist?"


    Qin Shuman: "??"


    Qin Shuman held her forehead, "After we finish talking, go run ten laps!"


    Lin Zuo: ...


    "Yes!" Lin Zuo saluted respectfully.


    Qin Shuman glared at him, "I don''t know if Qiu Tu is an Evil God Cultist. But what I do know is that he definitely has an information channel that doesn''t overlap with ours in the Investigation Department, Security Department, or even the entire Investigation Bureau!"


    Qin Shuman, hands clasped behind her back and with a serious face, said, "While the ''Larilo case'' is important, the information channel he holds is equally significant!"


    "If we really can continue to collaborate with him, the intelligence capabilities of our military in Xinjie City and even the Planning Area might be greatly enhanced."


    "By then, no matter what case we handle, we might achieve twice the results with half the effort!"


    After hearing Qin Shuman''s explanation, Lin Zuo no longer had any doubts. He looked at Qin Shuman seriously and bowed slightly, "I was wrong, Section Chief!"


    Qin Shuman looked at him expressionlessly, "You are punished to run another 10 laps. You may leave now."


    "Yes!" Lin Zuo saluted respectfully again, and then turned and left Qin Shuman''s office.


    But after Lin Zuo left, Qin Shuman did not immediately call Qiu Tu.


    She stood quietly by the window, her eyes somewhat distant.


    As a skilled spy, acting, lying, and deceiving others were as easy for Qin Shuman as drinking water.


    But... a lie might deceive others, yet it can''t deceive oneself.


    Although she had just rattled off many excuses when Lin Zuo questioned her, when she recalled the state she was in when she initially made the decision, it seemed that her first instinct was indeed to consider Qiu Tu...


    ''This isn''t a good sign....''


    With that thought, Qin Shuman looked at a "Promotion Notification" on her desk...


    Just this morning, thanks to her excellent performance in the "Yin Caimei case" and uncovering the "Larilo case," her military rank was promoted from Captain to Major.


    He had formally entered the middle ranks of the military.


    In terms of position, the department had, to show their trust in her, put her in charge of both the Investigation Department and the Intelligence Section.


    This level of attention was an affirmation of her intelligence work and also a reward for her efforts in pulling things back from the brink lately.


    But only Qin Shuman and the head of the Security Department Dai Yukang knew that the smooth sailing of the department''s work during this period was actually all thanks to Qiu Tu.


    The only difference was, Qin Shuman knew that Qiu Tu was intentionally letting her take some of the credit.


    Meanwhile, Dai Yukang believed that it was Qin Shuman''s ability to have "won over" Qiu Tu and to have obtained so much important intelligence from him.


    Thinking of this, Qin Shuman''s feelings toward Qiu Tu grew even more complicated....


    Gazing out the window, Qin Shuman''s eyes seemed to penetrate layers of space, looking toward Qiu Tu....


    After a moment, Qin Shuman sighed softly and muttered to herself, "No matter what, I still have to do my job well first."


    Having said that, she turned her attention to the pile of information and clues about Larilo on the table, her gaze growing incredibly deep, "This Evil God seems a bit odd...."


    "I hope it doesn''t cause any major trouble...."


    Finishing her thought, she took out her phone and started to call Qiu Tu....


    ...


    The Planning Area was forever a place where order and chaos intertwined.


    After officially coming under the control of the Sanctuary and becoming the economic center of the surrounding area of Xinjie City, bars, nightclubs, casinos, and brothels began to quietly spread throughout the city.


    At 6 PM.


    Qiu Tu, with dyed blue hair and dressed in leather clothing, wrapped his arm around Liu Fuping, who wore a red strappy dress and heavy makeup, as they entered the Fatty Fish Bar.


    Two underlings followed him, one was Cao Dabiao and the other was Chen Feng.


    The dress of the four men clearly showed they were wealthy young men from Longshan Road out for a good time.


    Therefore, as soon as the four walked into the bar, a barmaid dressed in a low-cut short skirt hurried over with a smile to greet them.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, the barmaid bent over and inquired, "Hello, how may I help you four?"


    Qiu Tu size up the barmaid before him and deliberately flaunted a lecherous smile.


    He reached into the barmaid''s cleavage and groped around.


    A squeal from the barmaid accompanied Qiu Tu''s magical retrieval of a handful of Silver Yuan from "inside".


    Initially, the barmaid''s face was filled with embarrassment, but her eyes immediately lit up upon seeing the handful of Silver Yuan, and she quickly and gleefully said, "Thank you, sir! Thank you!"


    Qiu Tu dodged her hands with a chuckle, stuffing the Silver Yuan directly into her deep neckline while fondling her and asked, "It''s my first time at your bar, find us a good spot, will you?"


    To tell the truth, although the barmaid was rather plain, her bosom was both large and soft.


    The barmaid covered her chest to stop the Silver Yuan from falling out while tolerating Qiu Tu''s wandering hands and replied with a smile, "Certainly, sir, this way please."


    Watching Qiu Tu''s smooth moves, Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng felt they paled in comparison.


    They thought Qiu Tu''s acting was incredibly refined; just a few simple actions had established the image of a hedonistic young master.


    They scanned the interior of the bar. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As one of the largest bars in Xinjie City, the Fatty Fish Bar was spacious. The ground floor, covering two thousand square meters, featured a glittering stage at the center with fan-shaped seating and a bar area around it.


    The night life having already kicked off, many patrons were already indulging in pleasure-seeking.


    When Qiu Tu had entered, several patrons glanced at him, but seeing Qiu Tu''s unrestrained demeanor, they just shared a knowing smile and looked away.


    And among them... was the target, the red-haired man in a suit.


    ''First step of the plan successful?''


    While they were contemplating, Qiu Tu, one arm around Liu Fuping and the other around the barmaid, headed towards a luxurious booth at the center of the stage area.


    Under flashing neon lights accompanied by a DJ beat that blended heavy metal and electronic music, and led by the barmaid, the four of them took their seats.


    Perhaps because Qiu Tu had flaunted wealth upon entering the bar, it wasn''t long before scantily clad and seductively poised women with enchanting eyes crowded around, eager to have a drink with him.


    Qiu Tu, acting every bit the playboy, lounged with one leg crossed over the other while Liu Fuping massaged his leg. Smoking a cigar lit by Cao Dabiao, he casually welcomed all comers!


    So, after a short while, the booth was surrounded by a flock of women, pushing even Liu Fuping to the outskirts....


    But she didn''t seem to mind and, following the plan, pretended to be angry and looked away from Qiu Tu!


    However, unbeknownst to others, her turned head was facing precisely in the direction of the man in the suit.


    Thus, she could easily monitor every move of the man in the suit without any other effort....


    -----

 Chapter 188 - 154: Fallen for the Beauty Trap (A 10,000-word chapter, please subscribe!)

    Today at noon, Qiu Tu received a phone call from Qin Shuman.


    Over the phone, Qin Shuman told Qiu Tu that the Security Department had located the Suit Man''s whereabouts and provided a series of intelligence.


    According to Qin Shuman''s briefing, Suit Man had begun appearing at the Fatty Fish Bar a few days ago.


    At first, he came alone every night, reserving a booth to drink by himself.


    Because he was generous with money and had a ruggedly handsome appearance, many girls would approach him to chat, drink his booze, and hang around his booth.


    And he never turned them away, lavishly treating all the girls who came up to him.


    This also meant that every night, he successfully took one or two girls away from the bar.


    Many of these girls were part of the bar atmosphere group nurtured by the owner of Fatty Fish Bar, and so they were also somewhat intimate with Fatty Fish normally.


    According to the information that Fatty Fish gathered from them, the Suit Man lived in a small villa near Longshan Road, commuted in a private car, and had several good-looking and gentle-tempered maids at home, which suggested that he was no ordinary man.


    When he was with these girls, although Suit Man''s behavior could be slightly violent and his actions a bit rough, on the whole, he seemed normal¡ªafter all, in times of chaos, people''s violent genes are naturally unlocked.


    The only thing that could be considered odd was that, just in the past two nights, Suit Man not only invited girls to drink but also... started inviting men to drink.


    He would pick out ''young masters'' in the bar who clearly came from noble families but lived dissolute lives to make a move on and actively befriend them over drinks.


    And last night, he had even taken away one such young master...


    Since Fatty Fish didn''t have much of a personal connection with these young masters, he wasn''t clear on what the Suit Man talked about with them.


    When asking the girls who sat with them to drink, they also had no recollection, mentioning only that Suit Man seemed to hit it off with those young masters, arm in arm, as if they had been fast friends...


    After understanding all the intelligence provided by Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu pondered for a long time.


    He was deciding whether to just apprehend Suit Man and Wang Xi now and temporarily close the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    Or... should he continue to follow this lead and first probe the depths of that Evil God.


    Eventually, after weighing his options, he chose the latter.


    It wasn''t that he was truly curious about the Evil God or that he harbored the ambition to save the world. He simply came to a clear realization: "when the nest is overturned, no egg remains unbroken."


    If the Evil God had already silently descended upon Xinjie City and begun to quietly expand his influence there, then even if Qiu Tu were to pretend to be an ostrich and ignore this matter... sooner or later, the Evil God would have an impact on him.


    When the Evil God accumulated enough power and was truly ready to make a move on Xinjie City, as a resident of Xinjie City and as a division head of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu would inevitably have to face the Evil God!


    Especially since the Evil God seemed to be somewhat "petty-minded." Just because Qiu Tu made Wang Xi a little nervous, she immediately took notice of him.


    If Qiu Tu were to capture her two followers, she would probably be even less inclined to let him off.


    So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu found that a reconciliation with Larilo was probably impossible.


    Since... a showdown was inevitable, it would be better to strike while the enemy was still weak, rather than waiting for them to grow strong before acting!


    Moreover... Qiu Tu always harbored a slightly impractical idea.


    That is... if the enemy of my enemy is my friend, could his two enemies possibly become each other''s enemies? S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Drive the wolf to devour the tiger" might not be such a bad strategy after all?


    Thus, due to this series of considerations, Qiu Tu decided not to arrest Suit Man for the time being.


    Instead, he would disguise himself as a young master and fish for Suit Man in the bar to see what he... and his "God" were up to...


    .....


    The dazzling LED walls and unpredictable spinning spotlights sliced the Fatty Fish Bar into a series of bizarre scenes.


    Combined with the aroma of alcohol, scents, and tobacco, along with the fizz of champagne and the smell of cheap perfume, it was like the people in the bar were transported into a dream kingdom far removed from reality.


    Qiu Tu had an arm around each of the skimpily dressed girls, casually resting his leg atop another and smoking a cigar, all the while watching the seductively dancing woman before him with a beaming smile.


    They twisted their waists like snakes, with captivating glances, blooming like enchanting flowers in the dark night, each move quickening the heartbeat of men.


    As a hunter, Qiu Tu had always been patient. He wasn''t focusing on his target at all, immersively engaging in various interactions with the girls as if he were genuinely seeking pleasure.


    Such professional attitude and exquisite acting not only earned the admiration of Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, who were guarding him, but even the officers from the Security Department watching Qiu Tu''s actions in the bar''s surveillance room were somewhat surprised.


    "Is this the legendary Qiu Tu who solved the Yin Caimei case?"


    "He''s so convincing. It looks like he''s really getting into it. Not a single flaw to be seen. It seems the target will be hooked soon."


    Hearing the comments of the few officers, Lin Zuo, who came on duty tonight, glanced at them expressionlessly, then fixed his eyes on the monitor, his face betraying a hint of hesitation...


    Frankly, he had the impression that Qiu Tu wasn''t just acting...

 Chapter 189 - 154: Fallen for the Beauty Trap (A 10,000-word chapter, please subscribe!)_2

    ''''''


    ''This guy isn''t really enjoying himself there, is he...?''


    ''I should call Section Chief Kong over to see, let her witness Qiu Tu''s true colors...''


    And so, he lived it up, indulged for a night.


    At 11 p.m., Qiu Tu got up to leave the Fatty Fish Bar, drunk, reeking of perfume, and with lipstick marks all over his cheeks and neck.


    It wasn''t clear whether Suit Man had noticed something off, or if he was just too cautious, but he hadn''t approached Qiu Tu all evening.


    Qiu Tu didn''t care.


    If not tonight, then tomorrow night. If not tomorrow night, then the night after.


    After all, he was spending case funds, so he wasn''t heartbroken over it.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu stood up with two girls in his arms, and slurred, "Tonight, you two are coming with me, okay?!"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the two girls pounced into his arms, one after the other, as excited as if they had won a victory, almost ready to jump for joy.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu "ha ha" laughed, preparing to leave the bar with the two girls in tow.


    But just then, he suddenly caught a whiff of a faint, familiar, sweet scent.


    However, when he tried to smell it again, he found that he couldn''t detect anything.


    At the same time, a magnetic male voice sounded from behind him, "Hello? My friend."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu turned to look and saw a slightly roguish, pale-faced man dressed in a suit with red-dyed hair, smiling at him¡ªit was none other than Suit Man, Qiu Tu''s target for the evening.


    Upon seeing his target appear, a sense of vigilance instantly sprang up in Qiu Tu''s heart.


    And recalling the familiar whiff just a moment ago... Qiu Tu knew the man had used the Mandragora Love Drug.


    Thinking thus, he pretended to be more intoxicated and replied, "Do you need something...?"


    At the same time, he stealthily glanced at the two girls in his arms.


    Indeed... under the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug, both girls'' eyes were somewhat hazy and, even in Qiu Tu''s arms, their gazes uncontrollably wandered towards Suit Man.


    As Qiu Tu observed and assessed, Suit Man spoke up. He laughed, lifted his glass in a toast to Qiu Tu, and showed a grin that seemed detached from this world, asking, "Do you mind staying for another drink, my friend?"


    Truth be told, whether it was the influence of the Mandragora Love Drug or that Suit Man was indeed charismatic, Qiu Tu really felt no impulse to refuse at that moment.


    So, he smiled and nodded at Suit Man, "Of course."


    Seeing Qiu Tu "bite," Suit Man cornered a smile and gestured to him, then led Qiu Tu to his booth. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Qiu Tu and others followed the target out, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and Liu Fuping thought about following. However, Qiu Tu seemed to guess their intentions and, feigning drunkenness, waved them off, signaling them to wait where they were.


    Though a bit worried, the three sat back down in their seats in the face of the target''s glance.


    Upon reaching Suit Man''s booth, Qiu Tu slapped the two girls'' cute bottoms, telling them to go play nearby, and then sat next to Suit Man himself.


    Suit Man chuckled at this, then took the initiative to open a new bottle of wine and poured a glass for Qiu Tu, asking, "May I know my friend''s name?"


    Qiu Tu, tongue thick, said, "My surname is Jia, you can call me Jia Shu."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu then drunkenly asked, "And you, my friend, what''s your name?"


    On hearing this, Suit Man replied, "You can call me Fellow."


    "Fellow...?" Qiu Tu muttered the name carelessly, but he knew in his heart that it must be a fake name or a title.


    After all, if he wasn''t mistaken, some sects referred to their low-level members as ''Fellows''.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu put an arm around Suit Man''s neck and drunkenly queried, "Brother Fellow, did you call me over to discuss something?"


    "To tell you the truth, I''m not someone who likes to make friends. But when I saw you, I felt an instant connection."


    Suit Man looked slightly smug upon hearing this, then said, "Do you believe in ''God,'' brother?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu feigned astonishment for a moment, then "ha ha" laughingly said, "God?"


    "If there were a God, would this world be in such chaos?"


    ''''''


    ```


    "Ha ha ha."


    Suit Man followed with a chuckle, then quickly changed his tone, "What if... all of this is what ''God'' wanted to achieve?"


    "''God'' believes that this world is filled with Order, that all beings are living too suppressed a life!"


    "Go to school, study, take exams, fall in love, graduate, work! Get married! Have children! Then educate your children to continue going to school! Continue studying!"


    "Then, wait for your children to fall in love! Work! Get married! Have more children!"


    "The beings of this world are like they''re bound by rigid Order, unable to do what they truly want to do!"


    "Unable to indulge in pleasure! Unable to freely unleash their desires!"


    Qiu Tu looked like he was taking it in, silently stroking his chin.


    Seeing this, Suit Man''s face revealed a slight smile.


    He leaned closer to Qiu Tu, continuing to seduce him, "But brother, have you ever thought about it?"


    "Life was never meant to be bound!"


    "Life is meant to be free!"


    His voice sounded ethereal as he said, "So... ''God'' appeared."


    "He destroyed the Order of the world, plunging everything into Chaos! Returning beings to times of turmoil!"


    It must be said, Suit Man had a knack for manipulating people. After hearing his sermon, Qiu Tu felt an urge to resign right away, to go out, to admire this extraordinary world!


    Therefore, without much pretense, Qiu Tu eagerly asked, "So... what did ''God'' bring us back to this Chaos for?"


    Upon hearing this, Suit Man smiled and pulled over the young woman he had brought with him today.


    She was about twenty-five or twenty-six, dressed in a strappy long dress with a small cashmere coat over it, exuding a gentle and graceful air.


    Her features were somewhat delicate, her figure excellent, especially her ample bosom, which was somewhat overwhelming.


    When she sat still, she had the gentle temperament of a lady. However, when she came over to Qiu Tu, he noticed that her eyes seemed to twinkle with the flames of a newly ignited fire...


    Qiu Tu glanced at Suit Man, puzzled.


    Yet Suit Man gestured to the young woman.


    Obediently, she straddled Qiu Tu''s lap and grabbed his hand, slipping it inside her coat.


    That moment was soft and smooth to the touch.


    Qiu Tu was startled and looked down. It was then, in the dim light of the bar, that he realized she wasn''t wearing anything under her cashmere coat!


    And the outside strappy long dress was merely a ruse! The straps inside were already torn off, doing nothing to cover anything at all!


    In that moment, Qiu Tu was baffled: Was this world so progressive that even this kind of public exposure was a thing?


    And... what was Suit Man doing? Was he letting this woman use a Beauty Trap on him?


    As Qiu Tu thought this, Suit Man spoke. His face was full of cynicism and smugness, "Brother, do you know who she is?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a second, then shook his head.


    Suit Man leaned in, whispering softly, "She''s the wife of Xinjie City''s Education Bureau''s Section Chief Kong..."


    To be honest, that really startled Qiu Tu!


    The movements of his hands, which were caressing her, froze instantly!


    However, perhaps this was the reaction Suit Man was looking for.


    So, he "heh heh" laughed while patting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t be nervous. Section Chief Kong has already been locked up. What are you afraid of!"


    After that, he winked at Qiu Tu, asking mischievously, "So how is it? Is Section Chief Kong''s wife big? Is she smooth?"


    ---------


    ```

 Chapter 190 - 155: First Contact with the Evil God (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu: ....


    Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu really felt that Suit Man and Wang Xi had lost their minds.


    Previously, through a memory fragment, he had witnessed Suit Man in the villa that night, proclaiming he had received "God''s" instructions and was ready to make a big move!


    But... he truly did not expect the two to dare to do something so outrageous!


    The wife of a section chief, a well-bred lady, just brought out into the public like that, and treated in such a manner!


    Perhaps misinterpreting Qiu Tu''s silence as complicity, Suit Man nudged him with his shoulder and then, with an evil expression, said, "And what is a section chief''s wife, after all."


    "Let me tell you, under ''God''s'' guidance, we will build a beautiful new world!"


    He began his speech again, "As living beings, what is our first instinct?"


    "It is reproduction!"


    "So! Let us release our nature! Don''t care about status! Don''t care about human social rules!"


    "If you want it, take it! If you want to do it, do it! Let those restrictions no longer hinder our reproduction!"


    "Let life burst forth with its true power!"


    As Suit Man became more and more impassioned, Qiu Tu knew he had to play along. So, while fondling inside Madame Kong''s coat, he also said excitedly, "Can this really be achieved?!"


    Upon hearing this, Suit Man smiled slowly, "Of course! As long as... you believe in ''God''!"


    Hearing that, Qiu Tu knew the critical moment had arrived. So, with a look of longing, he asked, "Then how can I believe in ''God''?"


    Suit Man produced a pink card, smiling mysteriously, "This card is the token to contact God."


    "Just keep this card by your side, and at night, you''ll meet with God in your dreams..."


    Seeing the token so easily offered, Qiu Tu even hesitated a bit.


    But he didn''t show it on his face, intentionally gazing eagerly at the card while his left hand continued to clutch Madame Kong''s softness, and his right hand stretched out from her embrace, eager to take the card.


    Just then, Suit Man sharply retracted his hand, then, smiling at Qiu Tu, said, "To meet ''God,'' you must be sincere."


    "So, I can''t just give you this card. You need to pay a Little Goldfish to buy it."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Honestly, at that moment, Qiu Tu had a big question mark over his head and ten thousand "facepalming" emojis running wild in his mind!


    ''What''s going on? Have I met a colleague?''


    ''Could this guy not be some Evil God Cultist but just a scammer?!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment.


    He looked closely at Suit Man for a while, scrutinizing him.


    After confirming... that he was the same person he had seen in Wang Xi''s memory, he finally took out a Little Goldfish and slapped it into Suit Man''s hand!


    Seeing the Little Goldfish, Suit Man''s face suddenly showed a hint of madness, but... the next second it disappeared.


    He handed the pink card to Qiu Tu with satisfaction, and then in an ethereal voice said, "Very good. It seems, brother, you truly are devout. Accept this gift, and believe me, ''God'' will bless you!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Honestly, listening to that familiar spiel, Qiu Tu felt more and more like he had been tricked.


    Thus, Qiu Tu spent a Little Goldfish, with a purchasing power of 160,000 RMB from his previous life, to buy an ordinary-looking pink card...


    The only thing that made him feel it wasn''t a complete loss was that Suit Man, before leaving, arranged to meet again in the bar the next day aside from leaving Madame Kong, who was nearly a stranger, with Qiu Tu.


    According to him, this was a gift from ''God'' to his follower. And he assured her she was clean and that he hadn''t touched her.


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu only had one question: Did Section Chief Kong consent to this ''gift'' during its preparation?


    ...


    And so, after bidding farewell to Suit Man,


    Qiu Tu embraced Madame Kong and got into his car.


    He drove to a small villa near Longshan Road and gradually brought the car to a stop.


    This was the temporary residence Qiu Tu had applied for using his authority, to better disguise himself as a wealthy scion.


    After parking the car, Qiu Tu glanced complicatedly at Madame Kong sitting in the passenger seat.


    From the bar to the villa, Madame Kong hadn''t said a word.


    Qiu Tu tried to communicate with her, but she seemed completely lost in her own world, only giving Qiu Tu intense stares...


    As if she were a living, breathing doll with a special purpose...


    This discovery made Qiu Tu even more wary of Suit Man, and of the Evil God behind him.


    He got out of the car, unlocked the door, and entered the living room, still holding Madame Kong.


    Qiu Tu told Madame Kong to rest on the sofa, while he went to the door to smoke a cigarette.


    After finishing the cigarette, two cars slowly approached from a distance, stopping one after the other in the yard of the villa.


    Lin Zuo, Liu Fuping, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and several specialists from the Security Department got out of the two cars.


    After coming down, Qiu Tu exchanged glances with them and then shook his head towards the inside.


    A few of them understood and stepped forward, taking out a compass-shaped treasure to scan over Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, the officer using the treasure shook his head at Lin Zuo.


    Lin Zuo glanced at Qiu Tu, then pointed inside the room.


    The officer, accompanied by Liu Fuping, walked into the room and scanned Madame Kong with the treasure once again.


    Seeing that the treasure did not trigger any alarm outside, Lin Zuo, who was leaning on the railing next to Qiu Tu, said expressionlessly, "There are no fluctuations of Cataclysmic treasures, so there shouldn''t be any surveillance or listening devices left on you."


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment, without much surprise.


    Because he knew how successful his disguise was that evening, he almost fooled himself with his own "disguise" of debauchery. Therefore, it was normal for Suit Man not to suspect anything.


    Seeing how calm Qiu Tu was, Lin Zuo added expressionlessly, "So, there''s also some bad news."


    "The card the target gave you... is very likely a fake." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "After all, it doesn''t seem to have any traces of Catastrophe Power on it either."


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu took out the pink card from his pocket and while smoking, he fiddled with it, looking at it.


    The card was made of thick cardboard and felt slightly coarse to the touch. It had no text on it, only an image on the front that resembled important female organs, and looked somewhat suggestive.


    As Qiu Tu looked at the card, he slowly said, "Maybe... this card is just a smokescreen?"


    "Actually... after he approached me, he had already chosen me as the target?"


    Lin Zuo was noncommittal, "Possible."


    At this point, he changed the tone of his voice, "But... it is even more likely that he was simply trying to swindle your money. After all, according to the intelligence, he didn''t ask for money from those young masters in the past few days either."


    "So... you probably won''t get any clues for the money you spent."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "How could that be possible? I''ve made a second preparation."


    ¡ª¡ªWhen Qiu Tu had close contact with Suit Man, he had already slapped a new [Silver Key Bee] onto his body.


    So, whether the card was real or fake, by the day after tomorrow at the latest, Qiu Tu would know all the details of Suit Man''s movements over the next two days; thereby, Qiu Tu would still obtain a lot of information.


    Therefore, even if it was just for the chance of close contact with Suit Man, the money Qiu Tu spent as Little Goldfish was worth it.


    As for the connection with Larilo, it would be great to have it; if not, no loss.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu raised the pink card in his hand and then looked up at Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao.


    He hesitated between the two, but eventually waved to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, Chen Feng strode over and asked seriously, "Chief, you wanted to see me?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment and passed the pink card to him.


    "When you sleep tonight, keep this card close to your body."


    "I''ll rest as usual."


    "Let''s see which one of us will receive the ''God''s'' summoning."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused and then added, "If you do get summoned, there''s no need to panic. Just follow the plan I set up for tonight."


    Chen Feng nodded solemnly and carefully put away the card upon hearing this.


    With these arrangements made, Qiu Tu had initially completed his plans for the evening.


    They all went their separate ways.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping stayed in this temporary villa. While Chen Feng and Cao Dabiao moved into the temporary villa on the left.


    As for Madame Kong, she was temporarily taken by the Security Department to the villa on the right for inspection: the Security Department would try to figure out what kind of Cataclysmic ability Madame Kong had contracted and how to counteract it.


    As everyone returned to their respective villas, Qiu Tu, with Liu Fuping''s slender waist in his arm, also returned to the small villa.


    Since Qiu Tu had an "appointment" with Larilo that night, nothing happened between the two. They just took a bath together and then went to bed.


    Qiu Tu slowly drifted off to sleep as planned, while Liu Fuping lay beside him, quietly guarding him to prevent any accidents from occurring.


    The reason Qiu Tu had applied for the three neighbouring villas as temporary operation bases for the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department was to be able to provide mutual support at any time and to deal immediately with emergencies should any arise.


    And so... as the blue moonlight cascaded down, it tranquilly blanketed the land of Xinjie City.


    Qiu Tu slowly entered the realm of dreams.


    It was unclear how long had passed, maybe a minute, or maybe an hour...


    In his sleep, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a soft voice calling near his ear, "Jia Shu... Jia Shu..."


    At first, Qiu Tu didn''t react to the voice, but as the calling persisted, he suddenly realized!


    He slowly opened his eyes.


    And then he found himself seemingly in a pure white world made entirely of mist.


    And a beautiful girl was sitting on a throne, quietly watching him...


    ---------

 Chapter 191 - 156: Evil God: Jia Shu is My Believer (10,000 Words Please Subscribe)

    Qiu Tu tentatively raised his head to look at the beautiful young girl.


    Her elegant, egg-shaped face was suffused with a gentle luster. Her eyes were large, round, and clear like apricot kernels with stars held within.


    She appeared to be only fifteen or sixteen years old, exuding a youthful maidenly charm.


    Her face, while ought to radiate innocence, was instead filled with seductiveness, each grin and frown seemingly capable of drawing one deep into temptation...


    It was a striking contrast of purity and allure.


    ''This... is Larilo?''


    Qiu Tu looked up at the "Deity" before him, somewhat puzzled.


    Honestly, if he didn''t know that this "Deity" was a high-ranking Cataclysmic Creature, he would have thought she was just a girl who was exceedingly beautiful.


    At that moment, Larilo, who sat enthroned as a god, also slowly parted her lips to speak.


    Her voice was soft and coquettish, reminiscent of a chanteuse''s gentle humming, "Jia Shu... are you willing to become my devout follower~~?"


    Hearing that tickling voice and seeing Larilo'' s innocent appearance, umm... Qiu Tu felt somewhat tempted.


    After all... it''s said that some religious followers have duties to serve the deities.


    If he could serve the Heretic Goddess Girl before him, Qiu Tu felt it wouldn''t be a loss.


    However... despite what he was thinking, Qiu Tu hadn''t forgotten the true purpose of his meeting with Larilo tonight ¨C to gather intelligence.


    So, after a moment of thought, he didn''t directly answer Larilo''s question but instead looked at her with a longing gaze and slowly began to speak, "From the moment I was born, I''ve always felt as if I was carrying a mission on my shoulders."


    "I seem to have been waiting for someone''s arrival, always hoping to stay by her side..."


    "But I''ve been lost, not knowing whom I am waiting for or why I should wait for her..."


    "Now, I understand..."


    With that, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with fervent eyes and took steps toward her.


    Rule number one of "Gathering Intelligence": Don''t let your conversation be dominated by the other party''s rhythm.


    Sure enough, following Qiu Tu''s unexpected "confession," Larilo''s train of thought was interrupted, and her eyebrows visibly furrowed.


    But being a Heretic Goddess adept at bewitching hearts, clearly, Larilo was not a simple character.


    So, she chuckled behind her hand and gave a gentle wave.


    Suddenly, the misty steps between the two seemed to be severed, creating a vast chasm.


    Qiu Tu''s advance was blocked, and he had to stop.


    Larilo sat on her divine throne, watching Qiu Tu with a captivating smile, "Want to come closer to me~~?"


    "You can. But... only my followers can approach me~~"


    "So... do you want to become my follower?"


    Hearing Larilo repeatedly ask this question, Qiu Tu immediately became extremely cautious.


    Therefore, he still didn''t give a direct answer but continued to probe with a smile, "Why can only your followers come close to you?"


    "Shouldn''t the glory of ''God'' shine upon all mankind?"


    At these words, Larilo let out a soft laugh, then, sitting on her throne, she crossed her slender legs, "''God''s'' glory indeed shines upon all mankind. But... that doesn''t mean everyone has the privilege to approach the Deity."


    "If every ordinary person could get close to the Deity, then what would be the difference between the Deity''s followers and ordinary people? How could they serve the Deity any better?"


    As she spoke, Larilo''s clear apricot eyes once again locked onto Qiu Tu, teasingly asking, "So, are you truly willing to become my follower... Director Qiu?"


    At first, as Larilo argued with him about whether "ordinary people" could approach the "Deity," Qiu Tu wasn''t particularly moved.


    After all, the only reason he was discussing these points was to engage Larilo in idle chatter and to build a mental model of her character to analyze what type of woman this Heretic Goddess Girl truly was.


    But before he could finish constructing the model, his cover was blown!


    At that moment, Qiu Tu really felt as if the hairs all over his body were standing on end!


    He was eager to use the "warning method" taught to him by the Security Department to alert Liu Fuping and have those outside help him exit the dream.


    But... when he was about to actually do it, he hesitated.


    Because he felt a bit unwilling...


    The rare opportunity to face this Heretic Goddess and extract some intelligence was at hand, but running away at the first hint of danger seemed too cowardly.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu remembered that the Security Department had explained to him that "Enter Dream" is a basic ability of Cataclysmic Creatures with "Divinity" living in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    For that reason, this ability wasn''t as powerful as one might think.


    It''s not just killing Qiu Tu in the dream that would be difficult, even hurting him in the dream would likely be challenging.


    After all... the Spirit World is merged with the material world, but there remains a strong barrier between the two worlds.


    To purely rely on mental power to forcibly harm a person in the material world within a dream would require a significant amount of energy.


    It was this piece of education that gave Qiu Tu the courage to meet Larilo in the dream and to engage with her back and forth...


    Otherwise, with his usually cautious nature, he would not have risked placing himself in such a dangerous situation.


    ''I can hold on a bit longer! Try to chat more!'' he thought.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu suppressed his anxiety and dropped the pretense.


    He stared straight at the Heretic Goddess Girl in front of him, then said with a smile, "I never expected even the great ''God'' to know my name. It seems... my fame is really high now!" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t run away, Larilo''s eyes turned into curved rainbows, as she looked at Qiu Tu like prey and continued to drop bombshells with a giggle, "Actually... I not only know you. I have also seen you."


    Qiu Tu''s pupils shrank slightly, and his heart suddenly pounded.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s reaction, Larilo laughed even more joyously. She said, "And... not only have I seen you, but I have also heard many followers talk about you."


    Qiu Tu was startled once again. He suddenly felt that things were getting out of control...


    He was tempted to probe Larilo and her followers'' identities further.


    But before he could speak, Larilo looked at Qiu Tu with a devilish grin and bluntly asked, "Do you want to know who I am? Also, do you want to know... who my followers are?"


    At this point, Larilo winked at Qiu Tu, "It''s no harm to tell you."


    "After all, even if you know, it won''t affect us."


    "One of my followers... is your superior, the person whose name you''ve used..."


    Qiu Tu was shocked, "Jia Shu?"


    Larilo nodded with a smile, "Surprised?"


    Honestly, Qiu Tu suddenly understood how Yan Chen had felt when facing him¡ªit was one bombshell after another, truly enough to make his brain buzz with the inability to think.


    Making his entire head hum.


    However, precisely because of this, Qiu Tu forced himself to calm down even more.


    He knew that the more such a situation occurred, the less he could afford to panic, the less he could follow the opponent''s rhythm.


    After all... Yan Chen had been "played" by him in just this manner.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took several deep breaths and put a confident smile back on his face.


    He smiled and continued to probe, "Minister Jia is your follower?"


    "Honestly, I find that a bit hard to believe."


    "With his ascetic demeanor on a daily basis, could he be a follower of a deity whose domain is ''Reproduction''?"


    Larilo, hearing this, laughed even more merrily, her crimson eyes looking at Qiu Tu as she dramatically asked, "Are you~~ really sure your Minister Jia is an ascetic?"


    "If I remember correctly, his favorite thing is to dissect the bodies of women, right?"


    "Do you want to visit his villa''s basement? Perhaps... there are many surprising things there~~"


    Larilo was like a devil, looking at Qiu Tu with a teasing gaze, her face filled with an evil smile, "Like... the reproductive organs of young girls..."


    Qiu Tu: !!


    Perhaps fearing that the shock for Qiu Tu wasn''t great enough,


    Larilo continued with a smile, "And... guess why I dare tell you all this."


    "Because... you won''t live for two more days."


    She counted on her fingers, and her stunning face seemed to truly express a girl''s innocence, "At the latest, by the night after next, your Minister Jia should be preparing to assassinate you on my command."


    "Are you sure you can escape from the hands of such a skilled Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened?"


    At this point, Larilo''s eyes narrowed into rainbows again, seductively saying, "So... become my follower, Qiu Tu."


    "Let''s fill the world with life together!"


    "Let reproduction become the true power of humanity!"


    "No matter your status, married or not, no matter the place or occasion! No matter how many!"


    "As long as you want! You can!"


    "Let''s change this world together!"


    ...


    "Whew!"


    When Qiu Tu suddenly awoke from his dream, he was dripping with sweat!


    He opened his eyes, and then realized that Liu Fuping, Lin Zuo, Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, and several officers from the Security Department were all beside him.


    Liu Fuping, Cao Dabiao, and even Chen Feng, who usually wore a stoic expression, were gathered around his bed, looking at him with concern.


    Meanwhile, Lin Zuo and the Security Department officers were clustered by his side, using instruments to check his physical condition.


    Seeing everyone there, Qiu Tu''s face looked a bit grim, "Did I exhibit some abnormality just now?"


    Lin Zuo, with his arms crossed and an expressionless face, said, "Obviously. Just now, you were extremely agitated, and a strong abnormal Catastrophe Power emanated from you."


    "Agent Liu was worried something was wrong, so he quickly called us over, forcibly waking you."


    At this point, Lin Zuo couldn''t help asking, "Did you meet that Evil God just now? What did it say, what did it do?"


    "Why did it provoke such a strong reaction from you?"


    ------


    There was some business at the company, so I''ve been very busy all day. It delayed the manuscript. Sorry about that! Continuing with ten thousand words tonight!

 Chapter 192 - 157: Jia Shu Attempts to Forcefully Kill Qiu Tu (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered, and he fell silent for a moment.


    He recalled his entire conversation with Larilo in the dream.


    It had to be said... truly worthy of being an Evil God who toyed and manipulated Old Master Qin for decades¡ªLarilo indeed had some tricks up her sleeve.


    From the moment she pulled him into the dream, she almost completely dictated the pace of the entire conversation.


    From taking the initiative at the beginning, forcing him to become her devout follower; to exposing his identity; then revealing the secret that Jia Shu was her follower; and finally, disclosing Jia Shu''s plan to kill him forcefully!


    Step by step, layer upon layer, she continuously pressured Qiu Tu, pushing him to submit to her.


    Putting aside whether what she said was true or false, just her skill at manipulating people''s hearts was no weaker than Qiu Tu''s. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, her understanding of Qiu Tu was clearly much greater than his understanding of her.


    Therefore, in their initial clash, Qiu Tu was immediately overwhelmed.


    ''I didn''t lose unjustly this time....''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu''s gaze grew dimmer as he reflected in the dark¡­


    Since his arrival in this world, although Qiu Tu had been constantly surrounded by crises, everything had gone smoothly thanks to his various cunning maneuvers.


    Especially by leveraging his advantage in information and his familiarity with the human heart, Qiu Tu had managed to play all the big shots and numerous forces at will. This had gradually led to complacency within him.


    He believed that as long as he continued like this, he would eventually climb to the summit.


    But this defeat made him vigilant once again.


    With such a vast world and so many experts, he was far from the point where he could afford to be proud or relax!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, now calmer, didn''t immediately start to recall and ponder the information that Larilo revealed in her words.


    First, he gave a reassuring smile to the people gathered around him, then gave a simple explanation to Lin Zuo, "Indeed, I was pulled into a dream by that Evil God and had a brief exchange with her."


    "But no worries, she didn''t harm me, and she probably hasn''t used any techniques on me."


    As he spoke, the several agents from the Security Department finally finished their thorough examination of Qiu Tu.


    They stood up from the bed and shook their heads toward Lin Zuo.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo looked at Qiu Tu expressionlessly and inquired, "Then... did you obtain any information?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t deny it, "I did. But it needs to be sorted out first."


    "I''ll ponder over it for a while. Once I have results, I''ll share them with you."


    Lin Zuo, who was not the type to probe too deeply, nodded upon hearing this and then said to Qiu Tu, "It must have taken a fair amount of energy for the Evil God to enter your dreams."


    "After seeking you out tonight, she likely won''t come for a second time."


    "So, you should rest well."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded....


    After Lin Zuo and his delegation left, Qiu Tu stood up and walked out to the balcony of the bedroom.


    It was now deep autumn; the night breeze blew, bringing a hint of coolness.


    Qiu Tu leaned on the balcony railing, gazing at the scenery outside. He reached into his pocket for a cigarette, only to realize he was wearing pajamas with no pockets.


    Just then, Liu Fuping quietly walked up behind him, draped a sleeping robe over him, and then handed him a box of cigarettes.


    Qiu Tu glanced down at the woman beside him.


    Worry filled her eyes.


    Qiu Tu smiled, smoothed her hair, then lit a cigarette while embracing her slender waist. He squinted and smoked quietly...


    The glowing cigarette end flickered with his breath against the night sky, rhythmically appearing and disappearing, much like his now settled mood....


    In the bedroom, Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng saw the harmonious scene on the balcony and exchanged a glance, then quietly left the villa....


    After they left, Liu Fuping snuggled up to Qiu Tu and asked with concern, "Is the situation very complicated?"


    At her words, a bitter smile appeared on Qiu Tu''s face. It''s not just complicated¡ªit''s like a puzzle....


    Firstly, one thing Qiu Tu could be certain of was... there must be an internal spy in the Investigation Bureau.


    The simplest reason was, Larilo knew him too well, almost as if she had studied him for a long time.


    But Qiu Tu... was almost certain that it wasn''t Wang Xi who told her.


    There were two reasons.


    First, before yesterday, Qiu Tu and Larilo were almost unrelated in Wang Xi''s view.


    It was only after Wang Xi learned about Qiu Tu''s promotion and his responsibility for the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" last night that he began to feel wary.


    And according to what Qiu Tu knew about Wang Xi and Suit Man, Wang Xi seemed to meet with Suit Man only on weekends.


    Plus, it didn''t seem like Wang Xi had the means to contact Larilo directly, so even if Wang Xi had intended to report Qiu Tu''s situation to Larilo, he likely hadn''t had the chance to do so yet.


    Second, and more importantly, Qiu Tu remembered a memory fragment of Wang Xi that he had once reviewed.


    In that memory fragment, Suit Man had received a hint from Larilo not long after the Security Department began its substantial arrest operation, instructing him to start a plan.


    That day, Qiu Tu didn''t ask Wang Xi to help in the Bureau, and Wang Xi had stayed with Suit Man throughout.


    This indicated that there must be a fourth person signaling to Larilo, alerting her to the major upheaval in Xinjie City''s upper echelons that night!


    Moreover, that person must be from the middle or upper levels of the Investigation Bureau.


    After all... the operations that night, although significant, weren''t something ordinary people could know about.

 Chapter 193 - 157: Jia Shu Attempts to Forcefully Kill Qiu Tu (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    ''Is it really Jia Shu?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu quietly took a drag on his cigarette...


    To tell the truth, even though Larilo''s reason seemed valid, and when thinking deeply about Jia Shu''s series of actions to cover up the Yin Caimei case before that indeed harbored much suspicion,


    But... Qiu Tu really had some doubts about whether Jia Shu could be a follower of Larilo.


    After all... If Jia Shu really was a follower of Larilo and even intended to kill him forcefully, then why would Larilo warn him in advance?


    Wouldn''t that just make him more vigilant?


    Moreover, the most important thing was... Jia Shu was planning to attack him, but he hadn''t received any alert from ''Crisis Intuition''!


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hesitate.


    ''Could it be that Larilo is... playing the same game of driving the wolf to devour the tiger as I am?''


    "She doesn''t know I have a backup plan, so she intentionally sows discord between Jia Shu and me, making us face off against each other, and then she profits from the chaos...?"


    With that thought, Qiu Tu furrowed his brows and took the last drag of his cigarette, then readied to throw it to the ground and stomp it out.


    However, before he could act, Liu Fuping''s hand reached out, and an ashtray appeared in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then he lowered his head to glance at her, only receiving a gentle smile in return.


    This is the charm of a married woman...


    While inwardly marveling, Qiu Tu pressed out his cigarette in the ashtray.


    Just then,


    suddenly, a flash crossed his vision.


    The next second, rows of prompts appeared before his eyes.


    ''Crisis Intuition triggered! Generating crisis report!''


    ''Your superior, the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department, Jia Shu, has finally made up his mind to eliminate you.''


    ''As a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, he is an existence that you cannot currently stop, and even the "Trigger Paper Figure" might not be able to save your life.''


    ''He will make his move by tomorrow night at the latest.''


    ''You have only two days to prepare.''


    ''If within two days, you do not convince him to abandon this thought, or if you do not have the strength to survive his attack, then you will indeed die an unnatural death.''


    ''Now, a 48-hour countdown begins.''


    Qiu Tu: ??


    My goodness, seeing the countdown pop up before his eyes, Qiu Tu really felt as if his face had been slapped till swollen.


    Jia Shu actually really intended to kill him?


    And the timing was also just before tomorrow night?


    Wasn''t that too much of a coincidence!


    Could it be... Jia Shu was really a follower of Larilo?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s every move halted!


    Although his gut feeling told him something was off, as if he was missing some crucial detail, there indeed was no other explanation for now.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s resolve solidified!


    Whether it was a ploy of driving the wolf to devour the tiger, or whether Larilo had other motives, the fact was clear that Jia Shu was preparing to take action against him!


    He had been planning to deal with Jia Shu recently, so there was no hesitation!


    Now Jia Shu wanted to take action against him, just fine, he could use this opportunity to set up a trap in advance, to counterattack!


    So... he shouldn''t be thinking about all these unnecessary things anymore; he should simplify the situation!


    Such as figuring out self-preservation or... calling for help!


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was contemplating, Liu Fuping noticed something was off.


    Liu Fuping asked with concern, "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu pulled himself back from his thoughts and said to Liu Fuping with a sharp look, "Get me the communicator."


    "The one used to contact the Security Department."


    Liu Fuping, seeing his reaction, knew that Qiu Tu must have thought of something important, so she didn''t press further and simply "Hmm"ed, turning around to head back to the bedroom to fetch the communicator.


    Soon, she approached Qiu Tu with her delicate steps and handed him the specially made communicator from the Security Department.


    Qiu Tu took the customized communicator and made a call to Qin Shuman.


    It was one o''clock in the morning. Qin Shuman wasn''t asleep. Having just received a promotion, she was sorting through the work of two departments by the dim light of her office lamp, working overtime.


    "Ring, ring, ring."


    When she heard her communicator sound off, she glanced over from her work. As soon as she saw it was Qiu Tu calling, she reflexively answered immediately.


    "Qiu Tu? Calling me so late, has something happened?"


    Hearing the woman''s concerned voice on the other end of the line, Qiu Tu didn''t speak yet, as Liu Fuping yawned and walked back to the bedroom.


    Qiu Tu watched her leave and then spoke to Qin Shuman, "I want to ask, if there is a high-ranking official in the Investigation Bureau suspected of being an Evil God Cultist, then... can you directly investigate him?"


    Startled by Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman paused.


    Under the dim light, she didn''t directly answer Qiu Tu''s question but set down her pen and said carefully, "Qiu Tu. Whether someone is an Evil God Cultist can be detected with specialized equipment."


    "And most of the mid to high-level officials in the cities of the Planning Area are Cataclysmics. Thus, after the Sanctuary selected them, they were subjected to testing."


    "If it wasn''t detected then... given a Cataclysmic''s understanding of their own powers, it would be quite difficult to become an Evil God Cultist in just a short year."


    "After all... the Evil God is just a High Order Cataclysmic Creature. The power it can offer to ordinary Cataclysmics is limited."


    "Most likely, the mid and high-level officials would not give up their positions and status to cross that line..."


    "So... we cannot simply bring in a high-ranking official for examination without any clues."


    Having said that, Qin Shuman asked back, "Which high-level official in the Investigation Bureau do you suspect?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t feel the need to be evasive with Qin Shuman.


    So he responded straightforwardly without hesitation, "Jia Shu."


    "I suspect Jia Shu is very likely to be an Evil God Cultist, or at least has some kind of connection with the Evil God!"


    Explaining this, Qiu Tu also briefly described his encounter with Larilo to Qin Shuman.


    And at the end, Qiu Tu added, "And just now, I received news that Jia Shu might... indeed be preparing to make a move against me."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s conjecture, Qin Shuman also seemed hesitant, "Jia Shu is going to make a move on you?"


    "But... you''ve just been promoted to Principal Staff and are about to be officially included in the Sanctuary''s register, right?"


    "If he kills you now, it''s likely to bring up a lot of quest..."


    Mid-sentence, Qin Shuman suddenly paused, then realized, "No wonder Jia Shu is planning to act against you by the evening after tomorrow at the latest."


    "Your promotion to Principal Staff just came through, and being registered in the Sanctuary''s book, in accordance with the procedure, would take about two days or so."


    "So, at the latest, by the morning after the day after tomorrow, you should be officially registered."


    "That''s why Jia Shu has chosen to make his move against you before tomorrow night."


    "Looking at it this way, everything does seem to make sense," she said.


    Now distinctly worried, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment before saying, "We really can''t investigate Jia Shu directly."


    "But... this is what we''ll do. For the next two days, I''ll arrange for two teams of specialists from the Security Department to protect you."


    "With the Security Department personnel present, even if Jia Shu is audacious, I doubt he''ll dare to lay a hand on you easily."


    "Just make it through these two days, and after that, he should no longer be able to act against you."


    "Later on, we will discuss this at length. We''ll find evidence of Jia Shu colluding with the Evil God and then proceed with an investigation!"


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu declined without a moment''s hesitation, "The matter of assigning specialists for my protection can be dropped. It''s an internal affair of the Investigation Bureau."


    "If your Security Department intervenes, it could... complicate things unnecessarily."


    "Besides... I should be able to find someone within the Investigation Bureau to provide me with shelter."


    As he said this, the image of Tang Feifei inevitably came to mind.


    Compared to the protection from the two teams of Security Department specialists, he clearly preferred the strong-willed Tang Feifei...


    The only uncertainty was whether Tang Feifei would be willing to intervene...


    ----


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The third chapter will be updated around 19:00.

 Chapter 194 - 158 Tang Feifei: I Want Monogamy (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```


    Although he had such concerns, facing Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu was still full of confidence and said, "Don''t worry... I already have a plan."


    Qin Shuman wasn''t the type to dilly-dally or engage in endless disputes.


    So, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she hesitated slightly before agreeing. She didn''t continue to offer help, instead, she quietly said, "Just make sure you don''t die."


    When Qiu Tu heard this, he knew what she was worried about, so he joked, "Haven''t you heard an old saying? ''Good people don''t live long, troublemakers last a thousand years!''"


    At the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman''s lips couldn''t help but curve upwards a little.


    She teased, "You''re really quite unsparing when it comes to belittling yourself."


    A joke lightened the somewhat heavy atmosphere between them considerably.


    After chatting with Qiu Tu for a bit, Qin Shuman asked, "Is there anything else that I can help with?"


    To Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu didn''t stand on ceremony, "Actually, there is. You should have a file on Jia Shu, right?"


    "If it''s convenient, could you give me a copy?"


    Qiu Tu had enough of suffering from insufficient intelligence in his confrontation with Larilo tonight. So when facing the threat of Jia Shu, he didn''t want to be caught off guard a second time.


    A file of a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, although confidential, was not a big deal to the current Qin Shuman.


    Thus, with a "Hmm," she agreed...


    Qin Shuman was very efficient in her work.


    In just twenty minutes, Lin Zuo knocked on the door of Qiu Tu''s villa expressionlessly, then handed over Jia Shu''s information to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the information, thanked him with a smile, but Lin Zuo didn''t even bother to respond and turned around to leave with a poker face.


    Clearly... he was once again woken up from his sleep due to Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman, feeling disgruntled.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu just laughed indifferently.


    He watched Lin Zuo leave, then closed the door and turned on the lights in the first-floor hall of the villa. He sat down on the couch and slowly began to peruse the file.


    The entire file was detailed, covering Jia Shu''s life experiences, character assessment, family relatives, to the time of his Cataclysm Awakening. It was all meticulously recorded.


    The only disappointing part for Qiu Tu was that there was no introduction to Jia Shu''s Cataclysm Power in the file.


    Clearly, even in the Sanctuary, this was part of personal privacy and would not be recorded in the file...


    Having finished reading all of Jia Shu''s file, the image of Jia Shu in Qiu Tu''s mind became much more vivid.


    As a genius with a high IQ, Jia Shu enjoyed a splendid youth. He graduated from the Sanctuary''s Military Officers'' Academy, his parents both deceased, with only his younger brother to rely on.


    While at the academy, he excelled in all his courses and was finally noticed by a mid-ranking member of the General Investigation Bureau, who took him into the Investigation Bureau''s ranks.


    This marked the start of his rapid ascent in the Bureau.


    However, in the character assessment section of the file, Jia Shu didn''t score very high. According to the Security Department''s evaluation, Jia Shu might have "a second personality" inside him, which could be brutal, bloody, and evil.


    As a result, he was particularly susceptible to negative emotions, which could lead to his Degeneration into an aberration.


    This was also why the Security Department was keeping a close eye on him...


    After going through Jia Shu''s file completely, Qiu Tu took out his lighter and ignited the document.


    As the flames slowly devoured Jia Shu''s gray photo, and as the whole file turned into ashes, Qiu Tu swept the remnants into the trash can. Then he stood up and returned to the bedroom, ready to sleep.


    When he reached the bedroom, Liu Fuping was already lying in bed.


    She was wearing a tight silk slip dress that perfectly outlined her fully developed curves.


    Biting her lips, her cheeks flushed and eyes shimmering with a watery light, she was looking at Qiu Tu as if she wanted to ask for something.


    Seeing the enticing scene, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then he found it a bit funny...


    This woman must have heard his phone call with Qin Shuman and felt jealous, so she came to stake her claim.


    ''Indeed, no matter how mature a woman is, jealousy is inevitable.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t make the prepared beauty wait any longer but pounced on her...


    However, the moment he pounced, Qiu Tu also reflected on himself:


    ''I''m planning to seek Tang Feifei''s help tomorrow, yet tonight, I''m sleeping with her "girlfriend." Isn''t that a bit too much?''


    But before he could fully grasp the implications, he succumbed to the tender trap and was thoroughly engrossed...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at Tang Feifei''s small villa.


    Tang Feifei was sitting in the living room of her villa, wearing a tight practice outfit, holding a drink, gazing somewhat absentmindedly at the blue moon outside the window.


    Last night, she waited for Qiu Tu the entire evening, but he didn''t come. She... understood.


    After all, Qiu Tu had just been promoted last night, needing to hand over work and celebrate with friends and colleagues¡ªit was indeed hard to get away. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... it was already the second day. The handover tasks should have been completed, and last night''s celebrations should have been done, right?


    So why... has he still not come today?


    And it was not just Qiu Tu''s absence.


    Tang Feifei, having difficulty sleeping alone tonight, sent Liu Fuping a message in the middle of the night, hoping to invite her over for company.


    But... who knew, Liu Fuping who was always eager to help, actually refused her bluntly, telling her she was on her period today and did not want to move.


    Let''s not even mention that Liu Fuping''s period shouldn''t be this early, just recall that even if she were to be cut with a knife, Liu Fuping would still come to keep her company.


    For a moment, Tang Feifei felt as if the world had changed!


    She reminisced about the "happy times" with Qiu Tu over the weekend...


    At that time, she felt the "monogamous" life she had seemed quite beautiful as well.


    ¡ªQiu Tu was the husband, and Liu Fuping was the wife.


    As a result, why does it seem like she now has nothing at all!


    What on earth is going on!


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei, who already had a strong desire for control, downed the wine in her glass in one gulp and then "crash!" she crushed the glass to pieces!


    The glass pierced her hand as if it were hitting steel, not even scratching the skin!


    ....


    [Jia Shu''s assassination (38 hours)]


    [Evil God''s gaze (¡Þ)]


    ....


    A night without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up feeling utterly content.


    Last night, Liu Fuping whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear that her period was two days away and she was in a safe period now.


    Such a hint was as clear as it could be.


    So... Qiu Tu had his fill of enjoyment, did it with her, and then went to sleep soundly.


    And indeed, as Lin Zuo had said, Larilo pulling people into dreams should consume quite a bit of energy, so last night after Qiu Tu went to bed, she did not come to bother him again.


    This actually allowed Qiu Tu to have a good night''s sleep!


    Getting up in the morning, the beauty was no longer by his side, only the faint scent of roses lingered on the bed.


    Qiu Tu stretched, put on his slippers, and went downstairs.


    As expected, Liu Fuping was busy in the kitchen downstairs.


    She had tied her black hair into a bun, revealing her fair, swan-like neck, and her palm-sized face was filled with serenity and intellect.


    The morning light was just breaking, and the soft sunlight poured through the window onto her, who was clad in an apron, adding a touch of liveliness to her beauty, making her seem exceptionally calm and gentle today...


    Qiu Tu walked over, gently wrapping his arms around Liu Fuping''s slender waist, and rested his head on the woman''s neck, softly nuzzling against it.


    Tickled by Qiu Tu''s actions, Liu Fuping cooed in protest, "Stop it! I''m cooking!"


    Taking that as encouragement, Qiu Tu grew even more playful, his hands involuntarily reaching up...


    They played around for a while until Liu Fuping was almost unable to continue cooking. Only after her pleading did Qiu Tu let her off.


    After breakfast, Qiu Tu didn''t go to work but had Liu Fuping call Tang Feifei to invite her over to the villa for a chat.


    Obediently, Liu Fuping got up to call Tang Feifei.


    While she did that, Qiu Tu took the opportunity to sit on the dining chair and check the rewards from last night''s Loyalty Game.


    The "Salvage Game" had to be put on hold for the time being since there were no eligible subordinates.


    But for the "Fighting Game," Qiu Tu had once again sent out his lead "fighter" Ah-Tai.


    Thus, even though Wang Xi''s weapon had been upgraded to a rifle, he still lost the game without any suspense.


    Looking at Wang Xi''s slowly increasing loyalty, which had reached 56 points, Qiu Tu checked out the newly emerged Memory Fragment (Medium) and chose to view it, hoping to find new clues inside!


    Following Qiu Tu''s choice, the next second, he found himself in a strange but exquisitely decorated villa.


    In front of "him," seven or eight naked women were kneeling.


    "He" had one foot pressing down on one of the women''s heads, while the other hand stroked another woman''s Yue Xiong, laughing wildly.


    Qiu Tu was shocked for a moment, then tried to carefully identify the environment and the identities of the women lying around.


    But perhaps due to the lack of information, he could only roughly discern that these seven or eight women were all between the ages of 23 and 30, and judging by the delicacy of their skin¡­ they clearly were not ordinary citizens from the lower strata.


    Looking at the villa''s exquisite cashmere carpet and hanging famous paintings, also considering yesterday''s Madame Kong...


    A bold guess arose in Qiu Tu''s mind: could these women all be family members of the various section chiefs and department heads who had been arrested!


    ''They are too brazen!'' he thought.


    And as Qiu Tu thought this, a voice came from upstairs, "Wang Xi, stop playing, come up, the God will Bless you now!"


    ---


    Just a note, guys. Although I have the outline set, the screen time for the characters is not fixed. So it may be adjusted based on what readers like.


    So... if you like a certain character, be sure to leave more comments or vote for them on the [Characters] page in the book''s [Introduction].


    That way, I''ll know who everyone likes and then consider giving them more or less screen time.


    Lastly, a shoutout for Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping who I''ve just created; if you like them, feel free to give them your support with likes.


    The next chapter will still be around 19:00.

 Chapter 195 - 159 Cataclysmic Ability: Mitosis (10,000 words begging for subscription!)

    Upon hearing the words of the man in the suit, Qiu Tu felt a slight stir in his heart.


    ''Blessing?''


    ''It seems like this time I might actually witness something extraordinary....?''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu continued to "experience" on....


    Hearing the call of the man in the suit upstairs, "Qiu Tu" responded, "Coming!"


    After speaking, "Qiu Tu" casually groped the woman beside him a couple more times before getting up and heading upstairs along the staircase.


    When he reached the corner of the staircase, "Qiu Tu" turned to look back at the several naked women still kneeling on the ground, whistled sharply, and then laughed wildly as he ascended the stairs.


    His demeanor was becoming more and more like that of the man in the suit....


    Upon reaching the top floor, "Qiu Tu" was met with a modernly furnished study.


    In the middle of the study was a large solid wood desk, its surface as smooth as a mirror. Where once there were papers and a lamp, now they were all piled up in the corner, replaced by 12 white candles and 1 red candle.


    Beneath the 13 candles, there was a red six-pointed star drawn with blood.


    The 12 white candles were precisely placed at the 12 nodes of the hexagram, while the red candle was positioned right in the center!


    Qiu Tu silently memorized the pattern on the desk, then continued to follow Wang Xi''s memories.


    Meanwhile, upon seeing "Qiu Tu" enter, the masked man in the suit looked over, his eyes crimson with evil.


    "Old Qi, you actually don''t have the talent to become a ''Divine Envoy,'' but.... who would have thought you''d be so fortunate to encounter our ''God'' in this lifetime," he said.


    "To ''God,'' all living beings are equal, with no distinction of high or low, noble or humble."


    "Even the most ordinary person, as long as they devotedly worship her, can still be granted ''Divine Power'' and become a divine envoy."


    "Moreover, compared to those who drink the ''Incomplete Potion'' and steal ''Divine Power,'' we who receive power bestowed by ''God'' are much safer, without any risk of failure."


    "So.... open your mind and accept the power that ''God'' bestows upon you!"


    Hearing the words of the man in the suit, "Qiu Tu" fell to the ground with a "thud," then crawled on the floor and cried out, "Please, ''God,'' grant me power!"


    As "Qiu Tu" shouted, the man in the suit let out several wild, mocking laughs. He then opened a bag, grabbed a handful of an unknown white powder, and fiercely sprinkled it over the hexagram array!


    The next second, 13 flames surged up fiercely, changing from their original red to a deep purple!


    As the flames rose, the study was bathed in deep purple light, and smoke filled the air, as if the real world had been pulled away!


    And the figure of Larilo slowly emerged in this illusory world.


    Her eyes, crimson with evil, watched "Qiu Tu," making a stark contrast to her pure, angelic face.


    Then she stretched out her delicate hand and pointed towards "Qiu Tu."


    The next second, "Qiu Tu" felt the whole world spinning wildly. In a daze, he seemed to find himself in the midst of a brilliant galaxy.


    But before he could take in the beautiful view, the countless galaxies eerily began to stretch and deform, turning into thin, long tentacles, penetrating every cell in "Qiu Tu''s" body!


    "Qiu Tu" felt as if his entire body was being torn apart, the pain was unbearable! Yet his mental clarity prevented him from passing out!


    And just as the agony was reaching its peak!


    Suddenly, the scene before Qiu Tu''s eyes changed dramatically! When he came to his senses, he realized he had left the [Memory World] and returned to reality!


    "Whew!"


    Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then checked his body, finding it unscathed.


    But.... the scene from that memory felt so real that he thought it had actually happened to him.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu truly realized the terrifying aspect of the [Loyalty Game].


    It might just be a little [Memory Fragment], but it''s a real [Memory]!


    Not only were sight, hearing, and touch completely restored, but even the [sensation] was fully reproduced.


    It could be said that everything the brain/soul remembers, Qiu Tu could experience!


    And what''s more....


    It seems that even the thoughts were recorded in the memory...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but take out a piece of paper and pen and scribble something on it.


    Soon, the paper bore the details of Wang Xi''s Cataclysm Path and ability....


    ''Cataclysm Path: Life Reproduction''


    ''Cataclysmic Ability: Mitosis''


    ''Ability Effect: The Cataclysmic possessing this ability will have the capacity for asexual reproduction. Under certain conditions of sacrificing strength, one can split into two identical beings.''


    ''This ability can not only be applied to the entire living creature but also to its various organs, allowing a short-term enhancement of physical fitness or the replacement of organs.''


    Looking at the record of Wang Xi''s Cataclysm Path and Cataclysmic ability on the paper, Qiu Tu stroked his chin and felt.... Although this ability seemed a bit disgusting, it appeared to be very practical.


    Not only can he regenerate amputated limbs, but he can also leave behind an extra body to save his life?


    Is this the Cataclysmic ability bestowed by "God"?


    Out of the blue, Qiu Tu suddenly understood why some people would choose to worship the Evil God and why the Sanctuary allowed only Cataclysmics to take up middle and high-level positions in various cities.


    Forget about most people, even Qiu Tu. If he had been unable to undergo the Cataclysm Awakening and one day the Evil God approached him, telling him that by worshipping the Evil God, he could be 100% guaranteed to receive Supernatural Power, he reckoned that he would find it difficult to resist such a temptation...


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu neatly folded the paper in his hand and put it away.


    His takeaway from the "Memory Fragment (Medium)" this time was not insignificant. Qiu Tu not only witnessed that bizarre ritual, but he also learned that Wang Xi was already a Cataclysmic, and also discovered even more victims.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help taking out his Communicator and calling Cao Dabiao, instructing him to pull up the files on the families of the officials who had been involved in the incident a few days ago.


    Because he had just "personally" seen those women, identifying them should be possible with photographs, which could clarify the victims without alarming most people.


    Having done all of this, Qiu Tu also took the time to recall other details in the memory fragment that he had just reviewed. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Very quickly, two new details caught his attention.


    First was that Suit Man seemed to have been wearing a mask in front of Wang Xi all the time?


    But if they were clearly accomplices, why did Suit Man wear a mask in front of Wang Xi? What was he hiding?


    Second was that Suit Man referred to Wang Xi as "Old Qi"?


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, he recalled Wang Xi had once called Suit Man as "Old Master"?


    Old Master, Old Qi? So... are there five other members in this gang?


    But, why had he never seen them?


    The more Qiu Tu thought about it, the more puzzled he became...


    Combined with the fact that Larilo had been scheming for decades, and after descending to this world, she abandoned Old Master Qin, and her claim that Jia Shu was a follower of hers...


    Qiu Tu had this nagging feeling that the young female Evil God was playing a very big game...


    .....


    Liu Fuping made the call to Tang Feifei at 11 a.m.


    Tang Feifei arrived at the temporary villa at 11:20 a.m.


    From her brisk manner, one could tell how much she "despised" Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping...


    However, even so, she did not abandon her professional demeanor.


    To ensure secrecy, she parked her car at a nearby mall, then walked to Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping''s little villa, and climbed through a kitchen window...


    Therefore, as Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping were analyzing the case, they saw Tang Feifei appear in the villa dressed in sportswear, with eyes as sharp as swords and bright as stars, making a silent entrance...


    Sensing her imposing aura, Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping looked at each other, then awkwardly raised their hands to greet, "Director Tang, what brings you climbing through the window?"


    Tang Feifei''s eyes were sharp as daggers, and she stared at Qiu Tu with a gaze as intense as a leopardess locking onto its prey before bursting into a cold laugh, "Otherwise... I was afraid Chief Qiu... no, Chief Qiu, would run away!"


    "I''ve been trying to meet with you for two days, and I haven''t seen you, the busy man, at all."


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s accusatory expression, Qiu Tu smiled again.


    He sent Liu Fuping to make tea first, while he took the initiative to approach her and started to butter her up, "Sister Tang is kidding. I could hide from anyone, but never from you."


    He explained, "It''s just that I''ve been immediately assigned a case after my recent promotion, and I''ve been too swamped to find time."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu pointed to the dark circles under his eyes, which he had from working with Liu Fuping until the wee hours, and said, "Look, I hardly got any sleep last night."


    Tang Feifei narrowed her eyes suspiciously at Qiu Tu''s dark circles, "Are those from staying up all night?"


    Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, "Of course!"


    Tang Feifei was skeptical, but she was too lazy to quibble.


    She wasn''t the type to be petty; after a few sneers, she let it go.


    So she sat down on the sofa, with a look of having already seen through everything, and asked with a cold face, "So, tell me, what did you want to see me for this time?"


    It must be said, she looked spirited by nature, sitting straight even on the sofa, so her cold demeanor appeared even more striking and valiant.


    As Qiu Tu admired her robust health, he remarked, "What kind of talk is that! Is it a given that I''m in trouble if I''m looking for Sister Tang? Can''t it just be that I missed Sister Tang?!"


    Tang Feifei looked sideways at Qiu Tu, clearly unconvinced.


    Sure enough, after asserting his righteous stance, Qiu Tu grinned and sidled closer, then cheekily said, "Actually, it''s nothing much..."


    "It''s just... my subordinates want to kill me, my superiors want to kill me, and my enemy, an Evil God, also wants to kill me... that''s all."


    Tang Feifei turned her head and frowned at Qiu Tu, her wheat-colored face full of question marks: ???


    -----


    Three chapters, ten thousand words, haha, continuing tonight!

 Chapter 198 - 161: The Levels of Catastrophe Power (10,000 Words, Subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu:....


    To be honest, Qiu Tu felt that Liu Fuping''s rather informal behavior just now.... had little to do with Tang Feifei.


    Instead, it was the woman''s old problem: as soon as she received even a little kindness from someone, she would get carried away.


    However, Tang Feifei had taken the blame herself, and Qiu Tu didn''t feel right about taking it back.


    So he just followed with a smile, "No problem."


    Tang Feifei watched Liu Fuping leave the villa, then returned to the main topic with Qiu Tu.


    She said, "Just now you asked me if all the higher-ups in the Sanctuary are high-order cataclysmics...."


    "Actually, they''re not."


    Tang Feifei''s response did not surprise him.


    After all.... if the cataclysmics were that strong, why would the Sanctuary need to vigorously research weapons, develop armies, and expand their territory?


    If cataclysmics were truly that powerful, why would the department related to them, the Security Department, not be a mainstream department but a secret one?


    These details indicated that while cataclysmics might indeed be strong, they very likely weren''t that strong, or there might be some significant issue.


    As expected, Tang Feifei explained, "According to the Sanctuary''s research on various Cataclysmic Creatures in the Boundless Heart Sea...."


    "All cataclysmic beings can broadly be divided into five orders."


    "First Order being the weakest, Fifth Order the strongest."


    "And as they ascend in rank, cataclysmic beings will travel further along their respective Cataclysm Paths. They will become more aligned with their paths...."


    "This leads to a very serious problem: regardless of the path, once it becomes extreme, it can generate enormous harm."


    "Take the most peaceful Order Path, for example. As beings ascend in rank, their pursuit of order becomes increasingly stringent."


    "From the placement of an object to the functioning of a nation, everything must follow their order, without the slightest change or modification...."


    "Or take the most dangerous Destruction Path. As beings ascend in rank, the desire for destruction in their hearts also grows stronger."


    "Wanting to destroy objects, wanting to destroy humans around them, even wanting to destroy everything in the world...."


    "So when they reach Fourth Order or above,.... no one knows if they can still be considered human."


    "Perhaps.... they''re just puppets assimilated by their Cataclysm Paths?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s expression revealed sudden realization. He said, "I remember you just said that you are the highest Third Order Cataclysmic allowed by the Sanctuary. Is this why?"


    Tang Feifei nodded, explaining, "Yes."


    "The Sanctuary does support officials awakening as cataclysmics."


    "But.... they don''t consider power for promotion, nor do they support officials becoming high-order cataclysmics."


    Tang Feifei paused, then said, "Third Order is the highest level the Sanctuary can accept. It''s also the limit for maintaining sanity...."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also finally understood why Tang Feifei was so confident in her own strength.


    Put simply, unless it''s those reckless Cataclysmic Creatures, Third Order cataclysmics are indeed the current ceiling of power....


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was comprehending, Tang Feifei continued, "Moreover, the Sanctuary''s leadership has reached a consensus on whether to cultivate high-order cataclysmics."


    "That is, in any world, any era, the strength of a collective is always greater than that of an individual."


    "After all.... the power of a collective can be passed down. But individual strength may vanish with the individual''s demise."


    "So.... instead of allocating resources to train some uncontrollable high-order cataclysmics."


    "It''s better to buckle down and study the technology from before the Cataclysm, or how to integrate Catastrophic Power into machinery and objects, creating a path of ''Cataclysmic Technology''...."


    "That''s the real invaluable treasure that can be handed down to future generations. The true path that can save humanity."


    With that, Tang Feifei smiled and said, "After all, even the most powerful cataclysmic can''t withstand a nuclear bomb, right?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After understanding from Tang Feifei''s mouth the differences between First, Second, and Third Order cataclysmics; their ranks and paths; as well as the Sanctuary''s direction of development.


    Qiu Tu also gained certain insight into his next steps and how his strength compared to that of his superior, Jia Shu....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked towards Tang Feifei and directly spoke, "Feifei, this time, I might really need your help."


    Tang Feifei didn''t mind Qiu Tu''s increasingly presumptuous address....


    She raised her eyebrows slightly, then a smile spread across her face as if the prey was finally taking the bait, "Okay. But.... it''s not for free."


    As she spoke, she stood up and stretched lazily. Perhaps because her athletic wear was a bit short, when she raised her arms, her flat abdomen and the lines of her muscles were revealed.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Aren''t you curious about what I need your help with?"


    Tang Feifei looked down at him, her gaze full of a hunter''s teasing of her prey, "Or.... do you have other ideas in mind?"


    Facing that gaze, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    He said, "The political arena has never been about brute force."


    "Using a dump truck to run someone over can be effective once, but only for the most crucial moment."


    "Although I''m not sure why my always strategic superior has chosen such a risky path, I feel.... he''s not yet worth my deploying this final maneuver."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked at him in surprise, "Then how do you want to resolve this matter?"


    Qiu Tu gave a mysterious smile, then gestured for Tang Feifei to come closer, "Come here, I''ll tell you the next plan...."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident expression, Tang Feifei also leaned in curiously.


    Two minutes later, her wheat-colored face was full of shock...


    She looked Qiu Tu up and down as if meeting him for the first time and then commented, "You really are... sneaky."


    "But..." She dragged out the sound, keeping Qiu Tu in suspense, before saying, "I like it."


    At this, she switched gears, asking, "But what about my benefit?"


    By now, Qiu Tu had already resigned himself to his fate, stretching out his hand, "A night of companionship as payment."


    Tang Feifei, "Two nights."


    Qiu Tu, "Deal."


    .....


    Tang Feifei was swift and decisive in handling business, and after having settled the cooperation with Qiu Tu,


    she nimbly jumped out the window and left the villa. She didn''t even tease Qiu Tu.


    As she put it: there''s no rush... After everything is over, she has two whole days to have fun with Qiu Tu.


    At the time, Qiu Tu''s expression was like that of an old man on the subway staring at his phone...


    After watching Tang Feifei leave, Qiu Tu turned and went back into the villa, then took out paper and pen to write down the first step of the plan: capture the Suit Man...


    [Jia Shu''s Attack (30 hours)]


    [Evil God''s Watch (¡Þ)]


    ......


    6 PM in the evening.


    Since it was deep autumn, the sky darkened earlier.


    In the ominously dark sky of early evening, outside the perimeter of a small villa near Longshan Road in the Planning Area,


    Qiu Tu was communicating with the surveillance officers from the Security Department, "Are you sure that the Suit Man hasn''t come out since entering the villa last night?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, a male officer nodded and said earnestly, "Positive."


    "Moreover, we''ve checked, and there are only three entrances and exits to this villa above ground, with no other exit points."


    Qiu Tu nodded at this, then waved over Cao Dabiao, who was behind him.


    Seeing the signal, Cao Dabiao swiftly bent down and walked over.


    While looking at the villa, Qiu Tu asked, "Have we figured out the ownership of this villa yet?"


    The somewhat embarrassed Cao Dabiao standing beside him said, "Not yet."


    "In the records of the Civil Affairs Bureau, this villa is listed as unowned, but we have found that this villa has changed hands a few times in our records."


    "It''s just... the buyers are all blanks. Obviously, someone deliberately erased the records."


    "There''s likely some dark secret hidden within."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao say this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scenes he had witnessed in the memory fragment that morning...


    ''Could it be that villa?''


    After an afternoon''s investigation, the investigation team had discreetly checked the homes of the department heads and bureau chiefs who had been taken away in the past few days, as per Qiu Tu''s request.


    Unfortunately, out of the 33 department heads and bureau chiefs, families of at least 19 had disappeared.


    They might have all been abducted by the Suit Man and Wang Xi, hidden somewhere undergoing untold suffering...


    One could say that before the [8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case] was even solved, an enormous scandal was about to blow up in the upper echelons of Xinjie City society.


    While worrying about this, Qiu Tu examined the villa''s floor plan again, then said, "Follow this afternoon''s plan, split into teams and guard all the entrances and exits to prevent the target from escaping."


    "By 6:30 PM at the latest, officers from the Security Department will knock on the door to inquire, and that''s when we''ll execute the arrest!"


    "Yes!" After hearing Qiu Tu''s instructions, Cao Dabiao quickly saluted and then went to direct the operation...


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau.


    8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case investigation team office.


    Because Qiu Tu had reassigned two batches of people, there were only a few officers from the Public Security Bureau left in the office along with Wang Xi and Song Qing.


    Not sure if it was a psychic sense he developed after becoming a Cataclysmic, but Wang Xi''s right eyelid kept twitching, as if sensing something bad was about to happen.


    He looked up at the few investigators in the office and couldn''t help feeling something was off.


    But thinking it might just be his imagination, he glanced at Song Qing beside him, hesitated, and then asked, "Song Qing, do you feel that something''s not quite right?"


    The young girl, Song Qing, was at that moment engrossed in playing a game on her phone.


    On the yellow pixelated screen, a simple game of Tetris had her utterly captivated.


    -------


    That''s three chapters and ten thousand words, haha. Slept too late tonight and I still have to work tomorrow, so I probably won''t post the third chapter until around 8 PM. I''ll try to do it earlier.

 Chapter 199 - 162: Suit Man Arrested and Brought to Justice! (10,000 words, please subscribe)

    Immersed in the game, Song Qing obviously didn''t understand Wang Xi''s hint.


    She cutely uttered, "Huh?" and then, while continuing to play the game with a naive face, asked without looking up, "What''s wrong?"


    Wang Xi, who was sitting beside her, pointed at the empty Investigation Bureau office and said in a low voice, "Don''t you feel... like we''ve been left behind again?"


    "Brother Biao, Feng Ge, and the others have been gone for two days. Little Liu, Huo Yan, and the rest were called away this afternoon."


    "Even Sister Liu hasn''t shown up for the past two days."


    "It''s just us, with no other tasks, just sitting in the office killing time."


    Hearing Wang Xi''s words, Song Qing looked up from her Communicator, surveyed the office, and then revealed a dumbfounded expression, "Right!"


    As if she had just realized, she stopped playing the game, stood up abruptly, swept her gaze around the office, and then exclaimed in surprise,


    "It really is just us who have been left behind!"


    "Why is that!"


    "Did they go on a mission? Then why didn''t they take us?"


    "It''s not the weekend, nor are we off work, so it''s not overtime, right?"


    Hearing Song Qing''s barrage of questions, Wang Xi''s gaze involuntarily grew heavier. He thought of a possibility...


    So, with a slight turn of his eyes and an idea in his mind, he looked at the naive Song Qing and said with a smile, "Song Qing, why don''t you... call Sister Liu? See what''s going on?"


    "Maybe they just went out to party and didn''t invite us?"


    Song Qing: ??


    Song Qing glanced down at Wang Xi and said with annoyance, "That would make me feel even more excluded."


    After speaking, she sat back down with a huff and slumped back onto the table. Her recently developed curves pressed against the desk, forming a "one".


    Pouting her lips, she said, "I''m not going to ask. I''ll wait until the mission is over, then I''ll ask the chief! See if he really considers me one of his own."


    Seeing that Song Qing had not taken the bait, Wang Xi hesitated for a moment, then smiled and said, "If you don''t want to ask, then don''t."


    "I''m going to the bathroom."


    Song Qing took out her Communicator to continue playing Tetris, pouting her mouth indifferently, "Go ahead."


    Wang Xi muttered an "Okay" and then got up and left the office.


    But what he didn''t notice was... the moment he left, the naive expression on Song Qing''s face immediately disappeared.


    She cautiously peeked after Wang Xi''s retreating back, and once sure he had gone, she hurriedly turned off the game and sent a brief message through the Communicator, "Target left the office, appears to be signaling."


    After sending the message, she returned to her previous relaxed state and continued to sprawl on the table playing the game as if nothing had happened.


    As she played, she muttered softly, "They didn''t leave me behind. They gave me a more important mission."


    "So... the only one isolated is you, Wang Xi... hee hee..."


    The next second, her eyes lit up, she dropped a "T" shaped block, clearing three consecutive lines...


    ...


    At the same time.


    Liu Fuping, who had received Song Qing''s message, also quietly approached Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Wang Xi seems to have realized something''s wrong and is preparing to spill the beans."


    Qiu Tu nodded upon hearing this.


    Checking the time, he smiled, "It seems he''s not too slow after all, discovering the problem now."


    With that, Qiu Tu said firmly, "Wait another thirty seconds, then start the operation."


    Liu Fuping saluted, "Yes!"


    Quickly, as orders were given out, investigators from the Political Department dispersed around the area to prevent Suit Man from escaping.


    Meanwhile, specialists from the Security Department, following Lin Zuo''s signal, approached and knocked on the villa''s front door.


    Inside the villa at the time, Suit Man was embracing a young woman wearing only a sheer nightgown, holding a phone receiver to his ear.


    Through the receiver, Wang Xi''s anxious voice could be heard, "Boss, something''s wrong. You need to get out of there fast!"


    "I suspect our chief is on his way to catch you right now!"


    Hearing Wang Xi''s words, Suit Man''s rascal-looking face was filled with arrogance and confidence, "Oh? It''s okay."


    "Let them come then."


    Wang Xi, on the other end of the phone, was noticeably baffled.


    He uttered a "Huh?" and wanted to say something, but he didn''t know how to start.


    At that moment, however, Suit Man confidently smiled, "Don''t worry, it''s the divine decree of the God... "


    Simultaneously, the villa''s front door was knocked on heavily from the outside.


    Wang Xi on the phone clearly felt his brain was overloaded. He hesitated and said, "Is it... like that? Then..."


    But before he could finish his sentence, a stern male voice suddenly came from beside him, "Wang Xi. What are you doing? Give me your Communicator for inspection."


    Upon hearing that voice, Wang Xi turned sharply and saw the Political Department Investigator, known as Eagle, one of Qiu Tu''s confidants, standing right behind him, looking at him expressionlessly.


    And beside Eagle stood Ah-Kun, as well as another man who was nearly two meters tall, holding a small hammer, looming like a tower ¡ª Ah-Tai.


    Seeing the Iron Triangle standing in front of him, Wang Xi''s heart fluttered for a moment.


    He was no fool; the moment he saw the three of them appear together by his side, he had pieced together everything that had happened tonight...


    Qiu Tu had long suspected him, discovered that he was up to no good! So... he had deliberately set a trap to catch a thief with the stolen goods in hand!


    At that moment, Wang Xi felt as if he had fallen into an ice cellar...


    Meanwhile.


    The Suit Man inside the villa had also heard about the incident at Wang Xi''s side.


    He smiled indifferently, then snapped the receiver back onto the telephone.


    After hanging up the phone, he listened to the increasingly urgent knocking at the villa''s door without any rush.


    He reached out and played with the hair of the beautiful young woman in his arms, smiling, "My beauty. I won''t be able to indulge you for the next two days."


    "But... don''t worry. Just wait for me patiently for two days, and soon I will come out to find you..."


    As he spoke these words, the villa''s front door was violently kicked open by two Security Department commissioners and a squad of Political Department investigators, fully armed and storming in.


    Upon finding the Suit Man, more than a dozen guns were swiftly pointed at him.


    The Suit Man, as if he had anticipated this, raised his hands high with his back to the crowd, then slowly stood up and turned around.


    Facing everyone, he said with a smile that was not quite a smile, "Why so agitated, honored officers?"


    "I haven''t resisted..."


    Seeing his carefree demeanor, the commissioners and investigators on the scene did not dare to take things lightly.


    The two Security Department commissioners exchanged a look, and one of them stepped forward with handcuffs, twisted the Suit Man''s hands behind his back, and cuffed him!


    The Suit Man actually didn''t resist at all, and was simply taken away from the villa by the squad of commissioners and investigators.


    After they left, Liu Fuping led another team of Investigation Bureau agents to the villa, searching for the location of the captive family members.


    But... in the entire villa, besides the young woman who had just been held in the Suit Man''s arms, there was no sign of anyone else...


    Thus, the whole arrest operation ended in a strangely perfect curtain call.


    But... the aftermath of the entire incident began to spread slowly through the night like an undercurrent...


    ...


    At the City Center Garden villa.


    Yan Chen was strolling in the garden with his daughter, Yanyan.


    The blue moonlight poured down, casting a layer of azure luster on the petals of the various precious flowers in the garden.


    The night breeze blew, gently swaying the flowers as if whispering spirits, emitting a faint fragrance.


    "Yanyan. You''ve been cooped up in the villa these past few days, not going anywhere. Are you a bit bored?"


    "Do you need me to find someone to accompany you for a walk?"


    In front of Yanyan, even Yan Chen''s face, as withered as a dead tree, eased into a smile. He looked at his daughter with the loving gaze of an ordinary father.


    However, Yanyan was wrapping her arms around Yan Chen''s arm, her laughter pure and innocent, "It''s okay, father. I know you''ve been busy with work lately, so I''m fine staying in the villa."


    "As long as I can walk with you in the garden at night, I''m very happy."


    She was naturally exquisitely beautiful, pure as a sprite. Her smile outshone even the moon''s glow.


    And hearing Yanyan''s considerate words, Yan Chen gently patted her hand with a tender look in his eyes, clearly deeply loving his daughter.


    While in the midst of their affectionate father-daughter moment, suddenly, Ji Chen hurriedly approached from outside the garden. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen had clearly instructed his subordinates not to disturb him, so when he saw Ji Chen coming his way, his eyebrows furrowed slightly and he seemed slightly displeased.


    But he also knew that Ji Chen, a man of steady character, would never defy his orders unless something urgent or significant had occurred.


    So, after a soft grunt, he still slowly stopped walking and waited for Ji Chen to approach.


    Seeing Yan Chen stop, Yanyan, hand in hand with him, also stopped, curiously following Yan Chen''s gaze.


    Ji Chen arrived breathlessly in front of the two.


    He first nodded slightly to Yanyan, greeting her with a "Miss Yanyan."


    Then he spoke in a low voice to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief. There''s been an incident."


    Yan Chen hummed calmly, then with an indifferent gaze, he looked at his confidant and said, "What happened?"


    Ji Chen didn''t respond immediately but instead glanced at Yanyan, apparently feeling that the topic wasn''t suitable for her to hear.


    But Yanyan did not voluntarily leave, and instead still clung to Yan Chen''s arm.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen didn''t mind. His eyelids drooping slightly, he spoke in a hoarse voice to Ji Chen, "It''s fine, go ahead."


    "Yes!" Ji Chen responded, then finally spoke softly, "Half an hour ago, Qiu Tu solved the ''8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case.''


    "But... it seems this case is tied to some more complicated issues."


    -----


    Please subscribe for a lengthy update. Continuing with a daily ten-thousand-word release tonight.

 Chapter 200 - 163: Flirting with Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    ```


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s gaze deepened, and the blue moonlight draped him in a layer of cold colors.


    With a somber face, he asked in a calm tone, "More complicated matters? What are they?"


    Ji Chen looked down and said softly, "It''s said... that those thugs are not ordinary people but Cataclysmics."


    "They might have some kind of Disaster Medication or ability that can manipulate women."


    "So, they took advantage of last week''s Chaos... um... to seize and violate several family members of department heads and section chiefs who had been dismissed."


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s gaze slightly contracted, clearly a bit shocked as well.


    To seize and violate the families of a few dismissed department heads and section chiefs was no small matter. Once it got out, it would be a huge scandal.


    Before he could fully process this news, Ji Chen continued, "And... their Catastrophe Power seems to be derived from worshiping an Evil God..."


    At this, even someone as composed as Yan Chen struggled to control his expression.


    He furrowed his brow, considering a certain possibility.


    "You... aren''t about to tell me, are you, that the Evil God they worship is the one honored by the Qin Family?"


    By now, sweat had formed on Ji Chen''s forehead. He dare not wipe it away but simply nodded, saying succinctly, "According to Qiu Tu, it is so."


    "Huh!" Yan Chen exhaled a deep breath of white air.


    That breath, like a white chain, headed toward a cluster of flowers not far away.


    The next second, as the white chain descended into the flowers, a patch of precious blooms immediately withered, as if their life essence had been sucked away.


    Seeing this, Yanyan let out a cry, released Yan Chen''s arm, and ran towards the flowers, hitching up her dress.


    She knelt down, her face full of distress as she gazed at the wilted flowers scattered on the ground.


    Meanwhile, Ji Chen was so frightened that he didn''t dare to make a sound, simply standing there with his head bowed.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen''s face turned ashen, and he let out a cold snort before commanding, "Tell Qiu Tu to come see me now, immediately, right away!"


    After speaking, he didn''t even bother to check on Yanyan, instead striding away with an ashen face toward the villa.


    Ji Chen bowed behind him, "Yes!"


    After giving his respect, Ji Chen straightened up and wiped his sweat.


    Seeing Yan Chen walk away, he gave a subtle signal to a few maidservants not far off.


    The maidservants quickly understood and rushed over, competing to help Yanyan up, "Miss, please get up. Don''t touch those flowers; it''s dangerous."


    "Yes, Miss, it''s cold outside. Let''s go back to your room and rest," another added.


    Yanyan was a bit petulant at first, her eyes reddening as she clung to the flowers, refusing to leave.


    But in this house, everything clearly revolved around Yan Chen. Now, with Yan Chen enraged, no one dared to provoke him in such a situation; they all just wanted peace and safety.


    So, they half-dragged, half-carried Yanyan back to the villa.


    Once Yanyan was taken back into the villa, the now deserted garden saw Ji Chen glance at the withered cluster of flowers and click his tongue.


    Then he took out his phone, standing amidst the flowers, and directly called Qiu Tu to tell him to come and report to Yan Chen...


    ...


    Qiu Tu arrived at the City Center Garden Villa twenty minutes later.


    He was dressed in a crisp, black detective uniform, with a shining double-petaled epaulette on his shoulder, eliciting salutes and greetings from all the agents he passed.


    After parking, he entered the villa and hadn''t walked far when he heard a muffled cry of a young girl.


    Following the sound, Qiu Tu turned his head and saw a beautiful girl crying on a sofa in a side room while several maidservants whispered comforting words to her.


    Qiu Tu recognized the girl''s identity: Yan Chen''s daughter, Yanyan.


    So, he watched her for a couple of seconds before signaling to a maid standing by, asking, "What''s this about?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, the maid replied with an embarrassed look, "The Bureau Chief damaged Miss''s flowers, and she''s upset about it."


    Qiu Tu''s gaze landed on the withered blossoms on the coffee table in front of the girl, thought for a moment, then stepped outside the villa and picked a few fresh flowers of the same variety from the garden.


    Recalling a technique he learned in a past life, Qiu Tu hid the fresh flowers and then went to the side room.


    Entering the side room, Qiu Tu deliberately made his footsteps a bit heavier.


    Upon hearing the "clack clack" of boots on the ground, Yanyan, with tear-streaked cheeks, looked up towards Qiu Tu.


    Seeing a stranger, her expression became a bit timid.


    Qiu Tu, noticing this, asked with a congenial smile, "Did I just see a beautiful young lady crying here?"


    "Has something bad happened?" S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yanyan seemed shy around strangers, so she looked up imploringly at the maid beside her.


    Upon seeing this, the maid slightly bowed to Qiu Tu, "Agent Qiu."


    Although they had seen Qiu Tu many times and knew he wasn''t a stranger, they weren''t fully aware of his current position.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t bothered. He walked over, then looked at the withered flowers on the table with feigned surprise, "Is this beautiful young lady crying over the wilting of these flowers?"


    From the reactions of the maidservants, Yanyan had realized that Qiu Tu wasn''t a stranger. So, although she still didn''t speak to him, she wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes and nodded her head lightly.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu offered a comforting smile, "Every flower has its own blooming season. Birth, bloom, flourish, wither, fall; it''s a complete cycle."


    ```

 Chapter 201 - 163: Flirting with Yan Chens Daughter (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)_2

    "Those who truly love flowers won''t be saddened by their withering, because each withering and fall represents the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next...."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan looked up blankly at him. Her big, "sparkling" eyes, together with the slightly red corners from crying, made her look pitifully charming.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu lowered his head to look at her and then gave a nonchalant smile, "Those are all grand truths."


    "In the face of such a beautiful young lady, it is only right for me to make the flowers bloom anew."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s hand slowly swept over the withered flowers on the table.


    The next second, Yanyan smelled a fragrance of flowers. She turned her head and saw that the withered flowers on the table had indeed come back to life and bloomed!


    With a surprised expression, she opened her eyes wide and covered her small mouth in disbelief.


    Qiu Tu then picked up the fresh flowers from the table with a smile and handed them to Yanyan, "The most beautiful flowers for the most beautiful you."


    Yanyan''s cheeks turned slightly red as she reached out her hands to receive them in a dazed manner.


    Looking at the flowers that had bloomed again, Yanyan felt slightly spellbound, as if everything were dreamlike.


    After two or three seconds, when she came to her senses and looked up at Qiu Tu, there was no trace of him in sight.


    By the time he handed over the flowers, Qiu Tu had already coolly turned around and left!


    At that moment, Yanyan stared blankly at the empty entrance of the parlor, feeling somewhat dazed....


    "Emotional Fraud Manual" Method 7 of 108 to Improve Relationships: The first impression will most likely determine your image in a girl''s mind. And this image may very well accompany you for a long time.


    Therefore, creating a good first impression can significantly increase a girl''s initial favorability towards you.


    Thus, a "well-designed" encounter, a little surprise, a "rescue" can all make you achieve twice the result with half the effort in this relationship.....


    .....


    After spending two minutes, Qiu Tu checked the favorability of Yan Chen''s daughter.


    Qiu Tu threw the withered flowers he had just magically switched out into the trash and then hummed a tune as he made his way to Yan Chen''s study.


    By the door of the study, Ji Chen had been waiting outside.


    During the day, Qiu Tu had already learned from Tang Feifei about Ji Chen''s identity: a confidant attendant that Yan Chen had brought from the Sanctuary. It was said that he was the child of a distant relative of Yan Chen.


    After bringing him to Xinjie City, Yan Chen initially let him stay in the villa to serve as a steward, but after a few experiences outside, he was placed into the Political Department for cultivation.


    A true direct descendant.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Ji Chen''s face showed no expression. He pushed open the door and said to Qiu Tu, "The Bureau Chief is waiting for you inside."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then followed Ji Chen into the study.


    In the study, the pitch-black environment swallowed all light except for that small area on the desk illuminated by dim light....


    Yan Chen was sitting in that area, his figure shrouded in shadow, quietly smoking.


    Amidst the swirling smoke, seeing Qiu Tu arrive, he slowly began, "Tell me, how is the case going?"


    "Are those criminals cultists of the Evil God? And they insulted the family of the former section chief, the head of the department?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knew the matter had indeed attracted Yan Chen''s attention.


    This also allowed him to continue pushing forward with his next plan....


    So, he slowly began, "Yes, Bureau Chief."


    "After today''s arrest, the two culprits of the ''8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' have been caught."


    "However, through our investigation, we have found that they are most likely followers of the Evil God Larilo."


    "Larilo''s Cataclysm Path is Reproduction."


    "Thus, to practice their deity''s path, they have also been trying all kinds of ways to create chaos and commit despicable acts in Xinjie City."


    "Among these¡­ included assaulting the wives and daughters of former section chiefs and department heads."


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen keenly sensed the key issue at hand.


    He squinted his eyes as he quietly smoked, then said, "The capture of those involved officials by the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department over the weekend should have been very discreet."


    "Where did they get their information from?"


    Yan Chen indeed continued to talk about the topic. Qiu Tu smiled inwardly, but his face showed a hesitant expression....


    Noticing this, Yan Chen uttered, "Hmm?" with sharp eyes and asked, "What? Is there something you find difficult to say?"


    Qiu Tu promptly stood up straight, then lowered his head and said, "Bureau Chief, we haven''t cleared up the investigation yet!"


    "But... there are clues pointing towards Minister Jia...."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s brows furrowed immediately, and he chastised, "Nonsense!"


    "You suspect that a minister from the Political Department is involved with the Evil God?!"


    "Do you understand what that implies!"


    Qiu Tu didn''t argue, but quickly bowed his head to apologize, "Sorry, Bureau Chief!"


    However, after apologizing, Qiu Tu stopped speaking. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He gave Yan Chen plenty of time to think.


    Indeed, after scolding Qiu Tu, Yan Chen smoked and began to ponder quietly.


    After two whole minutes of thought, he finally spoke up in a hoarse voice, "What clues?"


    Qiu Tu, "The Evil God Lariro once personally revealed that Minister Jia is her follower. Moreover, she has also instructed Minister Jia to eliminate me."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown hourglass still ticking in the top left corner.


    [Jia Shu''s Assassination (28.5 hours)]


    [The Watchful Eyes of the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    Then he said firmly, "And I have indeed received a piece of intelligence. Minister Jia seems to be making some preparations; I cannot dismiss the possibility of an assassination attack against me."


    "According to the intelligence, the attack is very likely to happen tomorrow night."


    "So... I think it''s quite probable that the minister has some sort of connection with that Evil God."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen snorted coldly, "You certainly have strong intelligence capabilities. Even able to get information on your own minister."


    Qiu Tu said frankly without arrogance, "It''s just a coincidence."


    Yan Chen took a deep breath, snuffed out his cigarette in the ashtray, then asked, "Do you really have so much confidence in your piece of intelligence?"


    Qiu Tu stated bluntly, "I prefer to err on the side of caution. After all, nobody wants to joke with their own safety."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu added, "And... I have heard that the minister is a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. He is impervious to knives and guns, and even a pistol can''t harm him."


    "So... I worry I am completely incapable of handling his targeting."


    This time, Yan Chen looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of surprise. It was unclear whether he was praising or being sarcastic, "Your source of information is quite interesting."


    After speaking, he waved his hand, "Alright, you can go now."


    "Don''t overthink things, trust your superiors."


    After saying this, he warned sternly, "This case is a bit sensitive, remember to contain the information. Don''t let the outside world know any details."


    "If there is an issue, I will hold only you accountable!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu promptly saluted and acknowledged, "Yes!"


    Having responded, Qiu Tu lowered his hand and left the study.


    After Qiu Tu had gone, Yan Chen remained sitting in the chair, lost in thought for a long while.


    After a moment, he finally called out softly, "Ji Chen."


    Ji Chen appeared at his call. Yan Chen said emotionlessly, "Bring Lin Ting here."


    Lin Ting was the Special Duties Department Director who had been fawning over Yan Chen at the last senior management meeting. As the head of the largest military force in the Investigation Bureau, his personal strength was clearly outstanding.


    So, hearing that he should come over, Ji Chen was clearly startled.


    He involuntarily looked at Yan Chen, then quietly asked, "Bureau Chief... You don''t seriously suspect Minister Jia, do you?"


    --------


    Three chapters with ten thousand words each. The third chapter will update around 20:00. Our Monthly Ticket ranking has dropped a lot! Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 202 - 164 Shen Lingshuang Rushes Forward (Thanks to the Alliance Hierarch

    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen glanced at him indifferently, his voice hoarse as he asked, "What? Is that not allowed?"


    Ji Chen softly advised, "Bureau Chief... actually, compared to Minister Jia, I feel Qiu Tu is the more suspicious one."


    He brought up old matters, "From the beginning, his relationship with Qin Shuman was somewhat unclear."


    "Afterwards, Master Qin Si''s inexplicable escape, the bizarre expansion of the Yin Caimei case, followed by the Qin Family''s estate collapse within just a few days, all seemed like they were being manipulated by an invisible hand."


    "Plus, Minister Jia previously had your complete trust, so how did you become distant from him after just a few words from Qiu Tu, and now he has even become a suspect?"


    Ji Chen genuinely cared for Yan Chen''s well-being, so his sentences were urgent and rushed.


    However... if he were Qiu Tu, he would never choose to persuade Yan Chen at this time.


    What is Yan Chen''s character trait?


    It''s being suspicious.


    A person with such a trait would not fully trust anyone and would start suspecting those around him over the slightest doubt.


    Jia Shu is a prime example.


    Indeed, Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai had been adding fuel to the flames, but the root cause of the event was Jia Shu''s attempt to downplay the Yin Caimei case without consulting Yan Chen.


    That is what triggered Yan Chen''s vigilance and suspicion.


    And Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai were only going along with Yan Chen''s thoughts, telling him what he wanted to hear.


    Now, while Yan Chen was suspecting Jia Shu, Ji Chen stood by Jia Shu''s side. With Yan Chen''s suspicious nature, he would not listen to Ji Chen''s defense of Jia Shu, but would instead... suspect Ji Chen.


    Indeed, after listening to Ji Chen''s words. Yan Chen gave Ji Chen an indifferent look with his aged eyes and countered with a question, "Ji Chen, are you trying to teach me how to do my job?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen finally realized something was wrong. His body shook, and he quickly bowed, saying, "No, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen did not speak, only quietly watching him.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds...


    The atmosphere in the study became increasingly tense, so stifling it was almost difficult to breathe, while sweat on Ji Chen''s face and forehead began to bead more and more...


    Finally, just when Ji Chen could barely hold on any longer, Yan Chen slowly spoke,


    "Alright. Go call Lin Ting."


    "Yes!" In just those few short seconds, Ji Chen felt as if he had walked out of the jaws of a giant beast.


    Without any further thought of opposing or advising Yan Chen, he quickly bowed in response, then took out his communicator, and stepped outside the study to call the Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting...


    ...


    After leaving Yan Chen''s study. Qiu Tu hummed a tune as he walked outside.


    Although Yan Chen had verbally reprimanded Qiu Tu and had not made any explicit statements, Qiu Tu, who knew Yan Chen well, could tell from Yan Chen''s overall demeanor and tone that Yan Chen had also begun to suspect Minister Jia''s true stance.


    Given Yan Chen''s style, when the time came, he would most likely choose to protect himself and verify Minister Jia''s intentions.


    With this in mind, even if Minister Jia truly came to attack him tomorrow night, he wouldn''t need to call the Security Department or Tang Feifei to act.


    Although they too could keep Qiu Tu safe, doing so would expose Qiu Tu''s relationship with them.


    Qiu Tu felt that things had not yet reached such a critical level.


    And besides... to catch a thief, one must present evidence, and without Yan Chen witnessing Minister Jia attacking him, how could Yan Chen truly believe there''s something wrong with Minister Jia.


    After all, if Jia denied everything later, given his former closeness with Yan Chen, it was really uncertain who Yan Chen would believe...


    ''Two birds with one stone.''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu made his way through the corridor of Yan Chen''s study and left his villa. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before leaving, he also made a point to check the side hall.


    Yan Chen''s daughter, the angelic Yanyan, was no longer there, which slightly disappointed Qiu Tu...


    He drove away from Yan Chen''s garden villa.


    Qiu Tu did not return to the Investigation Bureau to labor over the interrogation of the Suit Man: he was facing a major challenge tomorrow. If he got past it, he would have plenty of time to interrogate, and if not, there would be no need anymore.


    With this time, he would be better off resting well to prepare for the crisis tomorrow.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu remained vigilant as he drove back to Old Alley Street.


    It had only been a bit over a week since he had left Old Alley Street.


    Yet when he parked the car, Qiu Tu felt almost unfamiliar with Old Alley Street¡ªthe once dilapidated road had been preliminarily repaired at some unknown time.


    And many neighbors, some familiar and others strangers, were either pushing carts or carrying pots, setting up stalls by the roadside.


    The previously chaotic street had somehow given birth to a small night market.


    Seeing the car that symbolized privilege, the neighbors who would normally scatter out of fear did not disperse. Instead, a few bold ones even approached and proactively asked, "Boss, would you like some boiled corn? Just cooked, very tasty. Only for 3 Copper Yuans."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    "Give me two."


    Paying for the two cobs of corn from the unfamiliar neighbor, Qiu Tu got out of the car and strolled through the small night market, making his way toward his home.


    However, before he reached the entrance of his building, he heard a familiar girl''s voice haggling nearby.


    Shen Lingshuang, "Uncle Chen, how much are these eggs?"


    Uncle Chen said, "1.5 Copper Yuan each."


    Shen Lingshuang squatted down, inspected the eggs, and tilted her head to ask, "Can I get a discount if I buy a lot?"


    Uncle Chen said with a chuckle, "Of course. If you buy a lot, I''ll charge you 1.4 Copper Yuan each."


    "1.4 Copper Yuan?" Shen Lingshuang tilted her head to calculate, "Okay!"


    With that, she took out a white handkerchief from her pocket, carefully unfolded it, and counted out 7 Copper Yuan, "Then give me 5!"


    Uncle Chen: ??


    "Wait a minute! Five is considered a lot?"


    Shen Lingshuang pouted and wrinkled her nose, "Of course. I eat one egg a day, it takes five days to finish them all, isn''t that a lot?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s naive words, Uncle Chen laughed heartily. He waved his aged hands, "All right, all right. Let it be 7 Copper Yuan then."


    "If it weren''t for you fighting for us at the City Hall for a chance to repair the road, if it weren''t for you helping us organize the night market, we wouldn''t be living such good days."


    "Haha. Thank you, Uncle Chen!" Shen Lingshuang cheered and thanked him.


    Then she carefully picked out five slightly larger eggs from the basket, put them in her bag, and stood up contentedly, proudly continuing to stroll through the night market...


    Qiu Tu, who was in the distance and listening to the two''s conversation, was a little surprised.


    Shen Lingshuang helped get the road from the City Hall?


    The night market was also organized with Shen Lingshuang''s help?


    For a moment, Qiu Tu found it a bit unbelievable.


    He recalled the Shen Lingshuang in his mind: the one who would brighten up with a bit of sunshine and behave at a spanking, a little masochist.


    At most, maybe add the title of a ... fairly reliable pharmacist?


    Yet, how had it been only a week without seeing her, and she''d transformed into a "hero" in the neighbors'' mouths?


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was stunned, Shen Lingshuang inadvertently looked up. Their gazes crossed the crowd lining the whole street and slowly met.


    That instant, Shen Lingshuang also froze in place.


    The next second, her eyes welled up with tears, and she dashed through the crowd toward Qiu Tu!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also snapped back to reality and stood still, smiling and opening his arms to wait for Shen Lingshuang rushing towards him.


    Having run up to Qiu Tu, Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with his arms open waiting for her to leap into his embrace, lifted her little short legs, and kicked him hard in the thigh, saying fiercely, "You still remember to come back!"


    "Did you forget about me already?"


    Qiu Tu, who had been expecting a warm ending, was a bit stunned and amused.


    Just as he was about to argue, he saw Shen Lingshuang gently put down the bag with the eggs on the ground, then leaped, jumping into his arms!


    Qiu Tu was startled and clumsily caught Shen Lingshuang.


    The girl''s soft body in his arms felt so small yet so resolute....


    .....


    Ten minutes later.


    In Qiu Tu''s cramped room.


    Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang squatted on the old sofa, munching on corn, eating boiled eggs, and chatting about what had happened to each of them over the week.


    Qiu Tu crunched on the corn and then turned with a bit of surprise, "So... you reviewed all the documents sent down to the Planning Areas by the Sanctuary."


    "And you found that the City Hall hadn''t repaired the roads within the time frame set by the Sanctuary?"


    "Thus, you led the neighbors to surround the City Hall building, demanding a proper plan and its implementation?"


    "And to quell the escalating situation, the City Hall prioritized repairing the roads of our Old Alley Street?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded with pride!


    Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Didn''t the City Hall kick you out?"


    Shen Lingshuang said with a giggle, "The City Hall isn''t a violent agency. If they wanted to clear the area, they could only ask the Public Security Bureau of the Investigation Bureau for help."


    "But with so many of us working at the Investigation Bureau, could I be bullied by just any ordinary agent?"


    "With one call to Eagle, and after Eagle spoke a few words with the team leader of the Public Security Bureau, they didn''t dare to rough us up."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu silently gave a thumbs up.


    This tactic of using leverage was fitting for someone who had slept in the same bed as him. She truly learned from the best.


    Thinking this way, he curiously asked again, "Then what''s the story with the entire street market downstairs?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang smiled and said, "That started with a couple of Cataclysmic Potions I made for you."


    -----


    Thank you, "Xinjie", for the generous 100,000 reward! Congratulations on becoming the Alliance Hierarch of our book! Wishing you good health, all the best, and great wealth~~


    Still three chapters of 10,000 words, haha. The third chapter will update around 8 PM. We''ve dropped a lot in the Monthly Ticket rankings recently! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 203 - 165 This is My First Kiss (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    Hearing what Shen Lingshuang said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    "Start from making the Cataclysmic Potion for me?"


    He reached out and flicked Shen Lingshuang on the forehead, teasing the girl, "Why don''t you start from the Cataclysm itself?"


    "Ouch!" Shen Lingshuang winced in pain, clutching her little head, and looked at Qiu Tu with a petulantly fierce expression, puffing up with anger, "You''re such a violent maniac! A jerk!"


    "After so many days not coming home, the first thing you do when you return is hit someone!"


    If it had been Liu Fuping or Qin Shuman who were angry now, Qiu Tu would probably try to comfort them. But¡­.this is Shen Lingshuang we''re talking about.


    Considering this little masochist, Qiu Tu, who had already figured out her personality, continued nibbling on his corn, and said with a smile, "Then you don''t like it?"


    Shen Lingshuang turned her head away, pouting, "I don''t like it!"


    After saying this, she sneakily glanced at Qiu Tu''s reaction.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu, unaffected, continued to nibble on his corn, she stiffly held on for one second¡­ two seconds¡­ and couldn''t bear it anymore.


    She bared her little fangs and leaped onto Qiu Tu, biting towards the corn and complaining, "Eat, eat, eat, that''s all you do, not even thinking of comforting someone! Bad guy!"


    Shen Lingshuang''s actions were so unexpected that¡­ Qiu Tu was startled and reflexively took the corn away from his mouth.


    He really did not have any other bad intentions, he was just purely protecting his food.


    However, he hadn''t anticipated that¡­ their movements now took on a different flavor¡­


    Seeing Qiu Tu move the corn away, Shen Lingshuang, who was flying towards him, realized something was off. Her eyes widened as she reflexively tried to pull back, but how could she stop her momentum mid-air!


    So, as her expression changed, all she could do was retract her tiny fangs and try to lessen the weight of her body.


    Thus¡­ what had started as a completely normal struggle turned into something that seemed like falling into someone''s arms and¡­ a forceful kiss.


    Shen Lingshuang flew into Qiu Tu''s arms. Their lips gently touched.


    Qiu Tu, smelling the pleasant fragrance of gardenias from Shen Lingshuang, feeling the softness between their lips¡­ was also a bit dazed¡­


    Time seemed to stop at that moment. Their lips pressed together, cuddled close, staring wide-eyed at each other, the atmosphere turned incredibly strange¡­


    But the next second, Qiu Tu started laughing.


    He gently pried open Shen Lingshuang''s cherry lips. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shen Lingshuang made a soft "Mmm~", tried to resist, but before she could do anything, she stopped again¡­


    This lasted for several minutes.


    Until both of them could hardly breathe, Shen Lingshuang, with blushing cheeks, pushed Qiu Tu away and hopped off the sofa!


    After jumping off the sofa, despite clearly being shy, she still tried to act tough, speaking with feigned fierceness, "You, you took advantage of me!"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu felt not the slightest guilt for taking advantage, as he leaned back on the sofa, legs crossed, touching his mouth and reminiscing, "Pretty sweet."


    Shen Lingshuang''s face turned bright red at once.


    She pointed at Qiu Tu, "You, you¡­ you¡­"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Indeed very sweet. Don''t you ever feel how sweet you are?"


    Shen Lingshuang, clearly too embarrassed, immediately covered her face and ran off.


    Watching the little girl''s adorable escape, Qiu Tu laughed heartily twice, feeling like he had made a profit¡ªafter Shen Lingshuang left, her corn was all his now!


    And to say, the Wang Family''s Aunt''s corn really was quite delicious!


    While Qiu Tu continued to lower his head and gnaw on the corn, Shen Lingshuang timidly poked her little head out from the bedroom.


    With her face still red, but showing a defiant expression, she called out, "Hey, Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu looked up from Shen Lingshuang''s corn, his face full of question marks, "What''s up?"


    Shen Lingshuang softly said, "That, that was... my first kiss."


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "As if it wasn''t for me."


    "Huh?" Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu with surprise, her face growing even more bashful.


    As if she had thought of something, she coyly asked, "It was also your¡­ your first kiss? Then the two of us¡­"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Right. Today''s first kiss."


    Shen Lingshuang: ??


    "Jerk!" Shen Lingshuang stamped her foot in frustration, and closed the door, ignoring Qiu Tu!


    After teasing Shen Lingshuang for a while, Qiu Tu felt much better. The tension in his heart about tomorrow night''s big battle also seemed to have eased a lot. This was an unexpected surprise.


    After dinner, Qiu Tu washed up and then got into bed to sleep with Shen Lingshuang in his arms.


    Perhaps it had been several days since she had been held to sleep, Shen Lingshuang was a bit uncomfortable, always fidgeting.


    In the end, only after Qiu Tu had given her butt a few firm spanks did the little girl blush and stop squirming¡­


    .....


    [Jia Shu''s Assassination (13 hours)]


    [Evil God''s Watch (¡Þ)]


    A night without words. The next day.


    Qiu Tu awoke from his slumber to find Shen Lingshuang still nestled in his arms.


    Looking down, he saw Shen Lingshuang blinking her big, watery eyes back at him.


    Feeling the tickle of her long eyelashes on his chin as Shen Lingshuang fluttered her eyes, Qiu Tu couldn''t help laughing.


    After horsing around in bed for a while, he gently smacked the girl''s pretty buttocks a few times, "Alright. Time to get up."


    "Today, I still have a lot of work to do!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang also obediently got up.


    She went to freshen up first, then casually tied her hair into a high ponytail and hummed a tune as she began to make breakfast at home.


    It was at this moment that Qiu Tu realized Shen Lingshuang had somehow managed to create a small kitchen in his less than twenty-square-meter apartment.


    Looking at the small area fully equipped with firewood, rice, oil, and salt, and watching the girl busily and competently working there, Qiu Tu suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of home.


    After breakfast, Shen Lingshuang helped Qiu Tu fetch his uniform, stood on tiptoe, and tenderly helped him put it on, looking very much like a diligent wife...


    Seeing Qiu Tu off at the door, he gently hugged Shen Lingshuang and turned to leave.


    Just then, Shen Lingshuang standing at the door called out to him, "Qiu Tu."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu curiously turned to look at her.


    With her hands behind her back, and her feet scuffing the ground, Shen Lingshuang hesitated before saying, "Qiu Tu, can I buy something?"


    This was the first time Shen Lingshuang had taken the initiative to want to buy something, so Qiu Tu was also somewhat curious, "What is it?"


    Shen Lingshuang said a bit embarrassedly, "A communicator..."


    She bowed her head, looking a little aggrieved as she said, "It''s just that, you often suddenly don''t come home..."


    "I''m always anxious when I''m home alone, worried about your safety."


    "Sometimes I''d try to contact you using Eagle, Ah-Kun, and their communicators."


    "But they all say you''re busy, and if you''re not contacting me there must be a reason, telling me to just patiently wait."


    "So..."


    Seeing the girl looking so pitiful, Qiu Tu''s gaze softened. He gently touched her head, "Sure. If you want to buy one, just buy it."


    "Do you have money on you? Do you need me to give you some more?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s agreement, Shen Lingshuang''s world seemed to suddenly fill with color, her eyes lighting up as she smiled, "No need, no need!"


    "I have money! I didn''t spend that much buying Cataclysmic Material!"


    "Besides, I''ve been making potions myself and selling them, so I have even more money now!"


    As she spoke, it seemed she remembered something, and she slapped her forehead with her hand before saying, "Oh! That''s right!"


    "Look at me, I almost forgot again!"


    Saying this, she hurried back into the house with a pitter-patter of her feet.


    After a moment, she came before Qiu Tu with a small bag she had sewn by hand and handed it to him with both hands.


    Qiu Tu took the bag and asked curiously, "What''s this?"


    Shen Lingshuang grinned, showing her cute little canines, and said cheerfully, "These are the Cataclysmic Potions I''ve made by collecting Cataclysmic Material during this time. They each have different effects."


    "Worried that you''d use them incorrectly, I''ve also annotated the name and effects of the potions on the bottles. You can study them yourself."


    "Actually... I wanted to explain them slowly to you last night, but you, but you..."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang recalled the first kiss they had shared last night, and her face turned red.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu''s gaze became even more gentle. He hugged the girl once more and bent down, pressing his lips again against hers before whispering, "Today, I gave my first kiss to you as well."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu left coolly with the potions.


    Meanwhile, behind him, Shen Lingshuang blushed, pursed her lips, and watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, steam practically coming out of her embarrassed head...


    However, after being dazed for about two seconds, Shen Lingshuang suddenly snapped out of it!


    Wait a minute, he gave his first kiss to her yesterday and today. What about the day before yesterday, and the days even before that?!


    "Pah! Jerk! He definitely went out to fool around these past two days!" Thinking of this, Shen Lingshuang instantly snapped out of her daze, her hands crossed in front of her chest as she stormed back into the house.


    But after sitting idly at home for a while and thinking about Qiu Tu''s dangerous life outside, she let out a small sigh and got ready to go out to buy a communicator...


    ...


    At this time, having kissed Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu also hummed a tune as he went downstairs to drive.


    When he got into the car, he licked his lips, still tasting the sweetness...


    "This girl''s lips really are delicious..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu did not start the car but first opened Shen Lingshuang''s package, intending to see what she had prepared for him.


    The package contained three potions in total. It wasn''t a large number, but considering the short preparation time of just over a week, Shen Lingshuang''s refining speed was very fast.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu grabbed the first potion and examined it.


    In delicate script, it was labeled "Nameless Potion."


    "Nameless Potion?" Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then started reading the explanation.


    "Byproduct of a failed attempt at making ''Petrification Skin Potion''."


    "Based on the trial with Xiao Bai the dog, after drinking, it does not petrify the skin. But... one can turn into a little stone."


    "Should be reversible after 2 hours."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    ------


    I was blocked again, thus the delay.


    Three chapters, ten thousand words haha. Seeking Monthly Tickets! Continuing the ten thousand-word challenge tonight!

 Chapter 204 - 166: The Bewitching Female Secretary (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    Seeing the strange description of the potion, Qiu Tu was truly a walking question mark.


    "Wait a minute, a potion for petrified skin turns you into stone yourself?"


    What kind of potion genius is this?


    After all... just say it did or didn''t petrify, will you!


    While silently criticizing in his mind, Qiu Tu set the bottle of "Fossil Potion" aside and then looked at the second potion.


    The second potion was named "Nameless Potion 2".


    With a forehead full of dark lines, Qiu Tu could roughly guess the remark on this potion.


    As expected...


    "A byproduct of a failed attempt at making the ''Giant Strength Expansion Potion''."


    "According to the observations of the test subject, a small white dog, after drinking it, it failed to increase the user''s size and strength. However... it can cause certain body parts, such as an arm, leg, or head, to enlarge and gain strength."


    "The potion''s effects last for a maximum of 3 hours."


    Qiu Tu: ?? S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu''s head was filled with little question marks.


    He could already imagine the scene where Shen Lingshuang gave the little white dog the potion, and its head suddenly enlarged, chasing her around and biting.


    What kind of sins did this little white dog commit in its past life to end up as the test subject for a "Potion Genius" like Shen Lingshuang?


    Qiu Tu recalled that when he had first met Shen Lingshuang, she told him about the fever-reducing potion she had made for her father. Although it did bring his fever down, her father ended up without any body temperature at all.


    Truly a Medicine God...


    When he first asked her to concoct the "Cataclysm Awakening Potion," his "Crisis Intuition" reminded him that he could only attempt it every three days. Could it be because of her mystical "Medicine God Constitution"?


    Silently lamenting in his heart, Qiu Tu warily took out the third potion.


    This time, Shen Lingshuang had finally not botched the potion.


    "Iron Will Potion"


    "Effect: After consumption, it can strengthen the mind tremendously for one hour. It not only effectively prevents mental damage, but also enhances concentration and pain tolerance."


    "The little white dog chased me for five whole streets after having a little bit of this potion! I threw several rocks at it and still couldn''t drive it away!"


    Looking at the remark left by Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu had a forehead full of dark lines.


    If he were that little white dog, he wouldn''t let Shen Lingshuang off either...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu pocketed the Iron Will Potion and temporarily set the other two aside.


    Although the effects of the three potions varied, only the last one, which could increase mental resilience, would be of some help in today''s battle.


    As for the other two, maybe...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly paused in his actions.


    All three potions, if successfully concocted, would have been one for physical defense (Petrification Skin Potion), one for mental defense (Iron Will Potion), and one for offensive use (Giant Strength Expansion)...


    At this thought, Qiu Tu felt a mix of emotions.


    He couldn''t help but look in the direction of his home...


    In a trance, he seemed to see Shen Lingshuang, without a communicator, sitting dumbly on the old sofa, propping up her chin, staring out the door, waiting for his return...


    And that unlucky little white dog would be lazily sprawled at her feet, curled up and asleep...


    ''Damn it. I hate this sappy stuff!''


    ''No woman in heart, the firmer the trigger gets!''


    Cursing in his mind, Qiu Tu pressed the accelerator, his face disgruntled, and headed towards the Investigation Bureau!


    However, on the way to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu still took out his communicator and found an excuse to vent his anger by giving Eagle and Ah-Kun a good scolding!


    After the tirade, Qiu Tu tossed the communicator aside, leaving the two on the other end bewildered.


    They racked their brains but couldn''t understand why they were being scolded. They could only scratch their heads and chalk it up to Qiu Tu being in a bad mood.


    After all, Qiu Tu couldn''t possibly be taking out his frustration about Shen Lingshuang on them, could he?


    All they did was not lend a communicator to Shen Lingshuang.


    Thinking so, they didn''t take it to heart: after all, to them, Qiu Tu was a big brother, almost like a father. If he scolds, so be it. They had no complaints...


    Like that, Qiu Tu sped all the way to the Investigation Bureau.


    Having vented all the way, his mood had finally improved a great deal.


    Getting out of the car, Qiu Tu locked up and prepared to go to the Investigation Bureau Office Building to start his day at work.


    However, he had hardly taken a step when a familiar voice called out to him, "Qiu Tu~~"


    At that voice, Qiu Tu turned around and saw Liu Fuping standing under a nearby tree, sneakily waving at him.


    Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned before a light went on in his head: Hiss... Could it be that the beautiful lady wants to get up to something naughty today?


    With that thought, he walked over, twirling his car keys, and asked curiously, "Sister Liu, why are you waiting here for me today? Is there something you need?"


    Liu Fuping, looking like she was about to do something secretive, glanced left and right to ensure there was nobody else around in the parking lot. Then, grabbing Qiu Tu''s hand, she whispered, "Come with me."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the Crisis Countdown in the top left corner, with no new Crisis Warning, suggesting there was no danger.


    And so, he followed her, ready to find out what kind of potion the beautiful young widow had in store for him today.


    After leaving the parking lot, Liu Fuping in uniform, hands behind her back, tiptoeing, peering left and right.


    Once she made sure no one had seen them, she pulled Qiu Tu into a residential house across from the Investigation Bureau.

 Chapter 205 - 166: Glamorous Female Secretary (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)_2

    He entered the courtyard of the civilian residence, and Liu Fuping stopped in her tracks.


    She pulled Qiu Tu aside and whispered, "Qiu Tu, it was crowded in the office building earlier, and I couldn''t explain it properly. Now, let me first explain the situation to you, and then you can make your own decision."


    With that, Liu Fuping pointed inside the house and continued in a low voice, "Inside is Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary."


    "She was sent by Commissioner Jiang and would like to have a chat with you."


    "Commissioner Jiang?" Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu slightly raised his eyebrows in surprise.


    Commissioner Jiang, whose name was Jiang Zhenpeng, was the first commissioner of the Xinjie City Municipal Committee and one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City.


    Or to put it more bluntly, he was the theoretical highest decision-maker of Xinjie City.


    However... it was unclear whether he had other plans or if the City Hall was simply too weak, but in any case... his presence had not been strongly felt in Xinjie City that year.


    He was far less influential than General Ye, who had bloodily purged the city''s underground gangs, and Yan Chen, who had forcefully suppressed various powers in Xinjie City.


    In fact, even after the military and the Investigation Bureau collectively arrested so many officials from the City Hall last week, all he did was protest verbally, further giving off the impression of someone impotent and blustering, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.


    And now... he was prepared to meet with him?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask softly, "Why does he want to see me? And... why would he contact you?"


    Liu Fuping explained seriously in a low voice, "Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary is actually our liaison in Xinjie City..."


    That single statement nearly fried Qiu Tu''s CPU.


    He quickly said, "Hold on a second. Let me sort this out."


    Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and then at the house.


    Liu Fuping was a covert agent planted by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, and Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary was their contact person in Xinjie City¡­


    So... does this mean Commissioner Jiang actually had a secret collaboration with Director Liu from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau?


    And while Liu Fuping seemed to be a scout for the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, she was actually... also working for the Xinjie City Hall?!


    In an instant, Qiu Tu felt that many things were explained.


    No wonder Liu Fuping and her group of spies from Eastern City could remain hidden in Xinjie City.


    No wonder Qiu Tu found it strange before: Eastern City and Xinjie City were two different cities, and even if Liu Fuping caught Yan Chen red-handed, it would be difficult for Director Liu from Eastern City to make a move.


    Now, it seems like a cunning collaboration between the two big shots.


    Director Liu was the face, while Commissioner Jiang stayed in the background.


    Thus, even if Liu Fuping and her group were exposed, with the hostile relationship between Director Liu and Yan Chen as a cover, Commissioner Jiang could continue successfully hiding behind the scenes.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s skin crawled.


    Indeed... there wasn''t a single simple character among these old foxes.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu felt that it might not be a bad idea to make contact with the other party after all?


    With that thought, he nodded to Liu Fuping, "Alright. I''ll meet with her."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu had agreed to meet with Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary after only hearing the first sentence, Liu Fuping was momentarily dumbfounded.


    She blinked in surprise and said, "Is that enough?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then headed toward the inside of the house.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping quickly followed.


    Once inside, Qiu Tu saw a tall woman with a seductive air.


    She appeared to be in her early twenties, with bold makeup, black eyeliner that extended upward, and under thick, curled lashes, a pair of eyes shone with proud luster.


    The dark red lipstick and bright violet eyeshadow made her seem both enchanting and dangerous.


    ''This woman is not to be trifled with...''


    With just one glance, Qiu Tu made an initial assessment of Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was sizing up the woman before him, the confidential secretary was also sizing up Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, she extended her delicate hand first with a smiling corner of her mouth, "Hello Chief Qiu, I am Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary, Tao Yaoyao."


    Qiu Tu also extended his hand, grasping Tao Yaoyao''s, "Hello, Secretary Tao."


    At that moment, Liu Fuping had just entered the room.


    Seeing that the two had already introduced themselves to each other, she opened her mouth and suddenly felt a bit superfluous.


    So when she saw that they were ready to start talking, she thought for a moment and simply volunteered to leave the room and stand guard outside.


    Inside the room.


    Qiu Tu looked at the enchanting woman before him and took the initiative to ask, "I don''t know why Secretary Tao is looking for me, what is the matter?"


    Tao Yaoyao, with a smile brimming in her eyes, uttered two words, "Recruitment."


    "Recruitment?" Qiu Tu''s eyes were unreadable, betraying no clear attitude, "It seems Commissioner Jiang has taken notice of me?"


    Tao Yaoyao said with a smile, "Chief Qiu is now a person of great influence in Xinjie City."


    "The newly emerged Cataclysmic, the mastermind behind the destruction of the Qin Family, the brilliant detective who unearthed evidence of illegal activities by 33 mid-to-senior level officials, not to mention the talent who has defeated the United Front several times....."


    "Even if Commissioner Jiang wanted to ignore me, it''d be hard, right?"


    Listening to Tao Yaoyao''s flattering words, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Pleasant things, anyone could say them.


    If they really wanted to recruit, they still had to offer enough benefits...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu bluntly asked, "So, what price is Commissioner Jiang willing to pay for such a talent, expert, and leading figure like me?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was indeed interested, the smile in Tao Yaoyao''s eyes deepened, but she didn''t state a price directly, instead she said with a laugh, "Commissioner Jiang treasures all talents immensely."


    "As long as it''s not an outrageous demand, Commissioner Jiang will accept it. So.... Chief Qiu, you might mention your own terms, and I will take them back for Commissioner Jiang to consider."


    Listening to those vague words, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly to himself.


    It seemed that Tao Yaoyao''s visit was likely just a preliminary probe of his attitude. Once they were certain he really wanted to defect, then Commissioner Jiang would likely make an appearance...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s mind turned rapidly, and he came up with a plan...


    He said with a smile, "For me to name my price, always seems too mercenary."


    "How about this, Secretary Tao. Tonight, I will send Commissioner Jiang a big gift."


    "If Commissioner Jiang likes it, he can then contact me with his sincerity."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu didn''t even wait for Tao Yaoyao''s reply, but directly turned and left the room.


    The two''s probing, from the moment Qiu Tu entered the room, lasted only about a minute.


    So when Liu Fuping saw Qiu Tu come out so quickly, she was a bit stunned, "That was fast?"


    But seeing that Qiu Tu didn''t look back and continued walking, she turned to glance inside the room, then quickly followed him.


    After leaving the civilian residence with Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping quickened her pace to catch up to him and asked in a soft voice, "What happened? Did the talks fall apart?"


    Qiu Tu glanced at her and shook his head slightly, "No. It''s just... she clearly came only to confirm my attitude, rather than to really negotiate."


    "So it was enough to clarify my stance, no need for a detailed chat."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu looked at Liu Fuping and inquired, "Did you tell Commissioner Jiang the news that I was at odds with Yan Chen and Jia Shu?"


    Liu Fuping''s face was filled with embarrassment, "Previously... I did report on your information."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu did not hold Liu Fuping accountable. After all, a few days ago, their relationship was not that close, and they each had their own agendas. So, reporting his information and situation was a very normal thing to do.


    But now...


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced at the Loyalty rating of 95 points Liu Fuping had, pondered for a moment, stopped walking, looked into her eyes, and said, "Let''s forget about the past." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But Sister Liu¡­ from now on, can you not report my information to Commissioner Jiang or Director Liu any more?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping was clearly stunned.


    As it was said earlier, people are not machines, nor are they the cold NPCs in a game.


    Even with high Loyalty, Liu Fuping might not realize Qiu Tu''s current standing in her heart until faced with a crucial decision.


    ------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words, haha. Old rules, third chapter around 8 PM. The Monthly Ticket for the new book is about to drop out of the top ten, ask for Monthly Tickets! Please!

 Chapter 206 - 167: Promotion for Everyone! (10,000 Words Appeal for Subscription!)

    So, when Qiu Tu first placed a critical choice before Liu Fuping, it was the first time she felt a conceptual shock.


    She wasn''t a fool, Qiu Tu''s words, though diplomatic, were essentially asking her if she could betray her original organization and lean towards Qiu Tu, or... put Qiu Tu before the organization.


    On one side was the person who had completely conquered her with personality charisma and... physical strength.


    On the other side was the organization she had been loyal to.


    At that moment, Liu Fuping''s mind went blank.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t pressure her¡ªtrusting the judgment of the Loyalty Game, he confidently gave Liu Fuping some time to think.


    He said, "It''s okay, Sister Liu. I can understand if you''re hesitant right now."


    "I''ll give you one day to think it over."


    "Tomorrow, you can give me your answer."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu gently patted Liu Fuping''s delicate shoulder and then turned to leave the alley...


    He came alone to the building of the Investigation Bureau. This time, no one interrupted and called Qiu Tu away midway. Qiu Tu smoothly made his way to the investigation team of the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    Upon arriving at the investigation team, almost all the team members had arrived.


    Perhaps because both culprits were in custody, everyone seemed a bit excited, sitting there discussing the details of yesterday''s capture and... sighing over Wang Xi.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t dampen everyone''s enthusiasm, but rather, he smiled and encouraged, "We caught the culprits in just a few days, which proves our capabilities."


    "However, let''s not become complacent or impetuous. After all.... we still need to sort out the details and evidence of the case clearly."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu glanced at Liu Fuping, who had just come in, and then at Cao Dabiao, before giving his orders, "Sister Liu, Big Biao, each of you take a team and proceed with the interrogation."


    "Big Biao, you take care of the Suit Man. Sister Liu, you''re familiar with Wang Xi, so you handle him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangements, Liu Fuping, still somewhat preoccupied, instantly switched to work mode, and she quickly saluted with Cao Dabiao, "Yes, sir!"


    Seeing them accept their tasks, Qiu Tu added another reminder, "During the interrogation, remember one key thing."


    "We are... the investigation team for the 8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    "Don''t ask about or record topics irrelevant to the robbery case."


    "We only interrogate on what we should."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reminder, both straightened their expressions, grasping the deeper implication in his words.


    So, under Qiu Tu''s arrangement, the team members quickly split into two groups and began interrogating the Suit Man and Wang Xi respectively.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he took advantage of this time to sit in the office of the investigation team and fill out the "Promotion Application Form."


    Now, all of Qiu Tu''s subordinates were his own people, with each of their loyalty ratings exceeding 60, 70¡ªa true direct force.


    Their contribution to the "Yin Caimei case" was significant. At the time, Qiu Tu had promised them a promotion and a raise.


    These past few days had been too busy, so there hadn''t been time to write the application form, but now with the "8.16 Pharmacy Robbery Case" cracked, Qiu Tu naturally wanted to take the opportunity to write the application form and promote them.


    Qiu Tu''s confidants, with Cao Dabiao as a First Level Detective, Chen Feng and Liu Fuping as Second-Class Investigators, and others including Eagle and Ah-Kun as ordinary Third-Level Detectives.


    Qiu Tu''s applications were quite egalitarian: everyone was to be promoted one level on the spot.


    Cao Dabiao would be promoted to Deputy Staff Leader, Chen Feng and Liu Fuping to First Level Detectives, and other detectives to Second-Class Investigators.


    Qiu Tu guessed that such an application would probably not all be approved by the superiors, and it was very likely that they would hold back Cao Dabiao.


    But that didn''t matter; to apply was to gain experience. Next time there was a contribution, another application would be easier.


    And... Qiu Tu''s reason for filling out this application form wasn''t just to help his confidants get promoted¡ªhe also wanted... to use this opportunity to see Jia Shu again and gauge his superior''s intentions.


    With this in mind, after filling out the application form, Qiu Tu stood up and went straight to Jia Shu''s office with the application form in hand.


    "Knock, knock, knock..."


    Accompanied by Qiu Tu''s knocking, a gentle voice from inside replied, "Come in."


    Qiu Tu pushed the door and entered, only to see Jia Shu leisurely enjoying some music.


    He was reclining in his chair, legs crossed, eyes slightly closed. His left hand rested on his knee, and with his right hand, he was rhythmically tapping to the beat of the tune in the air.


    Even Qiu Tu''s entry didn''t interrupt Jia Shu''s leisure, who continued to entertain himself.


    Observing this, Qiu Tu didn''t disturb Jia Shu but stood at the door, quietly waiting for him to finish indulging.


    Two minutes passed, the music ended, and Jia Shu, seemingly moved, stretched out his hand to wipe the corner of his eye, then remarked, "Music really does have a magical power."


    After speaking, he turned off the radio and reverted back to his demeanor as a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau.


    He looked up at Qiu Tu, his face behind the gold-framed glasses wearing a semblance of a smile, "Chief Qiu, what brings you here?"


    At Jia Shu''s question, Qiu Tu stepped forward, placed the application form on Jia Shu''s desk, then stated, "Minister, this is the promotion application for the Yin Caimei case investigation team."


    "The people below also contributed a lot to this case, and most are experienced senior detectives, so I thought of promoting them all one level."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Shu picked up the application form and carefully reviewed it.


    With no word from him, naturally, Qiu Tu wouldn''t speak up either. So for a while, the office became quiet.


    After looking it over for a bit, Jia Shu suddenly asked, "By the way, Qiu Tu, how is the 8.16 case coming along?"


    Before his visit, Qiu Tu had anticipated all the potential questions Jia Shu might ask.


    Regarding Jia Shu''s query, it certainly fell within his expectations, so he wasn''t at all surprised and smoothly replied, "Reporting to the minister, the case has been cracked, and the murderer has been caught."


    Jia Shu gave an "Oh?" and looked at him, asking further, "That quick?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in affirmation and said, "It''s mainly because we happened to come across some clues."


    Jia Shu nodded slightly and didn''t say anything more.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu also kept silent, continuing to quietly observe Jia Shu.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion or not.


    In his memory, Jia Shu always had a smile that wasn''t quite a smile on his face but always seemed to have a hint of ruthlessness in his eyes.


    Anyone who observed carefully would know that the person before them was extremely troublesome to deal with.


    But today... Jia Shu was completely different from before.


    Today, he appeared to be inherently more carefree, with the ruthlessness in his eyes replaced by a touch of cynical detachment.


    ''Is it an illusion?''


    Qiu Tu quietly searched for more differences in Jia Shu.


    But... after looking for a long time, aside from the discovery he had already made, he couldn''t find anything else unusual. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And at this moment, while Qiu Tu was observing Jia Shu, Jia Shu finally finished reading the application form.


    He nonchalantly picked up a pen and swiftly signed his name on it! Then casually handed it to Qiu Tu, "Take it."


    Qiu Tu took the application form and looked at the last place for the signature, indeed finding Jia Shu''s signature there.


    Qiu Tu recalled, and the signature seemed the same as the ones he had seen before.


    ''Maybe I really am overthinking it...?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu saluted, "Thank you, Chief!"


    Jia Shu casually waved his hand, then once again turned on the radio.


    The next second, the melodious music started up again.


    Jia Shu immersed himself in the music once more...


    Qiu Tu walked out of the office, slowly closed the office door, and thus left the slightly peculiar Jia Shu inside.


    Then he stood quietly outside the office door, listening for any sounds from inside. After detecting nothing out of the ordinary, he took the application form and headed to the Organizational Department.


    Such an unconventional promotion required not only the direct superior''s application and the department head''s approval but, most importantly, also needed the Organizational Department''s ratification.


    Many promotions get blocked because they don''t get through the Organizational Department.


    However... whether it was because Qiu Tu currently had a lot of face in the Investigation Bureau or the Political Department''s promotions were rarely obstructed by the Organizational Department, in any case... the entire approval process went through smoothly.


    Even... the assistant staff position for Cao Dabiao, which Qiu Tu didn''t expect to pass, got through, although without an immediate assignment to a division...


    This smoothness surprised even Qiu Tu. He even wondered for a while if he had accidentally smeared himself with "Mandragora Love Drug"...


    Nevertheless, all his confidants had successfully been promoted, especially with the addition of an assistant staff position and two First Level Detectives capable of leading teams on their own, Qiu Tu''s influence suddenly expanded several-fold...


    As long as these people were dispersed throughout the various departments, Qiu Tu would instantly be able to control more departments and manpower...


    .....


    [Jia Shu''s assassination attempt (6 hours)]


    [The gaze of the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    .....


    6 o''clock in the evening.


    In late autumn, it gets dark early. So even though it was only 6 o''clock, the sky was already dim, almost completely dark.


    Qiu Tu stood by the window of his independent office in the Action Division, holding a cup of coffee and, with one hand in his pocket, watched the view outside.


    Looking down from the ninth floor, people on the street looked like ants, each hurrying to their destinations.


    After taking a sip of coffee, the sound of footsteps, "tap tap," reached Qiu Tu''s ears.


    Without turning around, Qiu Tu recognized from the familiar footsteps that the person approaching was Liu Fuping.


    So, as he watched the dense clouds outside the window, he inquired, "Is everything ready at Sister Tang''s place...?"


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping walked next to Qiu Tu, stood shoulder to shoulder with him, and then replied softly, "Yes, Director Tang just called me, saying everything is all set."


    Qiu Tu took another sip of coffee, his face expressionless, and then asked, "What about Commissioner Jiang?"


    Liu Fuping nodded, "Secretary Tao mentioned that she is looking forward to it."


    Qiu Tu smiled but made no further comment and instead asked, "Someone from the Security Department has arrived as well, right?"


    --------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. As usual, the third chapter will update around 20:00. My Monthly Ticket is about to drop out of the top 10, I need Monthly Tickets! Please support!

 Chapter 208 - 169: Endless Trump Cards (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please!)

    Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting was unaware that Qiu Tu had already captured a masked man in a suit.


    Therefore, when a man in a suit suddenly appeared, he didn''t feel any surprise at all!


    However, he saw that the masked man in a suit did not flee but had the audacity to strike at him first!


    A trace of annoyance appeared on his face instantly, so his eyes became as sharp as an eagle''s, and without dodging or evading, he counterattacked with a palm strike!


    With a "Boom!" a loud noise erupted!


    As both individuals clashed palms, the air itself seemed to be violently shaking!


    The next second, to the shock of the onlookers, both sides seemed to be evenly matched, each taking a step back! S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The man in a suit was wearing a mask, making it impossible for the various forces to recognize his true identity.


    But Lin Ting''s identity was known to everyone.


    A minister from the Special Service Department and one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, a standard Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened!


    To face a man in a suit and only manage to fight to a draw?


    One must know that there were only a few Second-Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City! Each one of them was a significant figure!


    And the number that might have a connection to Qiu Tu was even fewer¡­.


    So, at that moment, in the minds of all the scouts and spies, a bold idea emerged: This man in a suit... could he possibly be Jia Shu?


    Had he gone insane?


    Was he truly disregarding his status and coming to assassinate his subordinate?


    What on earth was he doing?


    Thus, in no time, various messages about this assassination attempt started being relayed quickly to those behind-the-scenes power players¡­.


    ¡­.


    At the Garden Villa in the City Center Garden, in an opulently decorated ordinary lounge.


    Yan Chen was sitting on a plush genuine leather sofa, quietly reading a book under the lamplight.


    His daughter Yanyan sat at the table next to him, holding a vase and arranging a bouquet of flowers.


    Just when everything was incredibly peaceful and comfortable.


    Suddenly, hurried footsteps disrupted the quiet of the lounge.


    "Bureau Chief¡­"


    Ji Chen arrived at the door, knocked gently, and then called out.


    Yan Chen, after hearing the call, took his time to finish the last few sentences on the page before getting up.


    He picked up a gilded bookmark from the coffee table, placed it inside the book, set the book on the table, and then slowly stood up, hands clasped behind him, to walk outside.


    Yanyan, seeing this, looked up at Yan Chen with bewilderment.


    But Yan Chen pressed his hand down toward her and said in a deep voice, "Play by yourself for now, I will come back to join you in a bit."


    Having said that, he left the lounge with dignity, taking Ji Chen to the lounge across the way.


    Once there, Yan Chen sat down and then asked in a low voice, "Speak."


    Ji Chen uttered a sound of affirmation and then leaned closer to Yan Chen, speaking softly, "Just now, a message came through, saying Qiu Tu''s action tonight seems to have attracted the attention of many forces."


    "Our people alone have discovered at least two groups of unidentified persons in our vicinity."


    Having said that, Ji Chen paused, "And Qiu Tu, in order to lure out the legendary enemy, drove to the secluded villas around Longshan Road after leaving the Investigation Bureau."


    "And indeed, someone took the bait and made a move on him."


    "According to reports from downstairs, the mysterious person at a distance of 200 meters took aim with a rifle and fired a shot at Qiu Tu. Qiu Tu was shot and fell to the ground on the spot."


    "Minister Lin Ting was provoked by the audacity of the mysterious person and charged forward to engage in combat with him."


    "As a result, this mysterious individual truly exhibited exceptional skills, going back and forth with Minister Lin Ting. It looked like he indeed was a Second-Order Cataclysmic..."


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Yan Chen''s murky eyes revealed no joy or anger. He did not speak nor react, just quietly contemplating¡­.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen tentatively asked, "Bureau Chief... could that mysterious person really be Minister Jia?"


    "Do we need to dispatch more men?"


    Yan Chen neither confirmed nor denied it but said in a hoarse voice, "If this assassination is arranged by Jia Shu, there must be more to it than meets the eye¡­"


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Besides, although Qiu Tu was shot, it''s unlikely that something would easily go wrong with him."


    "He''s as slippery as an eel. Having received advance notice, he undoubtedly has numerous aces up his sleeve."


    "As for sending more men¡­," Yan Chen''s eyelids drooped, showing a touch of fatigue, "no need to send any for now."


    "Let them cause a stir. The more chaos they create, the more devils and demons will emerge, making some things clearer¡­"


    ¡­.


    Meanwhile, as Yan Chen was making such an assessment.


    At the doorstep of Section Chief Kong''s small villa, the residence of Madame Kong.


    Qiu Tu, who had just been shot and fallen to the ground, slowly got up.


    As he sat up, a "clang" was heard, and a bullet fell from his left chest to the ground.


    Upon closer inspection, his clothes did have blood on them, but there was only a small stain.


    His skin, including the exposed eyes and ears, seemed to be covered with a thin, semi-transparent layer of white paper.


    Clearly, this was the life-preserving charm he had obtained from Tang Feifei a few days ago: the Trigger Paper Figure! (Chapter 133)


    The effect of the Trigger Paper Figure was such that when the bearer was attacked, it would automatically be triggered, forming a protective layer over the body.


    This protective layer could withstand attacks from large caliber firearms and last for more than 30 seconds.


    The 30 seconds quickly passed, and the white paper layer covering Qiu Tu''s body slowly dissipated.

 Chapter 209 - 169: Endless Trump Cards (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please!)_2

    ```


    "Phew!" Qiu Tu exhaled heavily, then rubbed his aching left chest, cursing inwardly,


    ''No wonder it''s called Trigger Paper Figure! It turns out it only triggers the moment the skin is pierced!''


    ''Damn it, it hurts like hell!''


    Even though the Trigger Paper Figure successfully blocked the attack, bullets don''t just penetrate, they also have impact force!


    Even though his heart wasn''t pierced by the bullet, the blow to the chest made Qiu Tu feel like his blood was churning, and he felt extremely uncomfortable.


    It was only because he was a Cataclysmic that his spirit had been enhanced; if it had been an ordinary person who took such a hit, they would probably have passed out from the pain by now.


    While complaining to himself like this, Qiu Tu also looked towards the source of the fighting noise.


    Seeing Lin Ting and a Masked Man in Suit fighting each other not far away, Qiu Tu wasn''t too surprised, but he couldn''t help but sigh slightly in his heart.


    ''As expected... the worst possibility still happened.''


    In fact, as soon as he saw through Wang Xi''s memory that the Suit Man had been wearing a mask all along but hadn''t when he went to the bar or met with him, Qiu Tu had guessed that there might be not just one Suit Man, but many.


    Therefore, the Suit Man he had arrested might also not be the same one he had seen in Wang Xi''s memory.


    Even... the Suit Man in front of Qiu Tu was also very likely not the one from the memory...


    And that led to the second worst possibility that Qiu Tu had guessed.


    That was: Jia Shu might not be alone in attacking him tonight, he could have accomplices, and not just one.


    ''So... I must find a way to draw him out!''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu glanced at the still calmly ticking Crisis Countdown in the top left corner.


    [Jia Shu''s Attack (3.5 hours)]


    ''So... tonight is just getting started....''


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took another look at the battle scene in the distance, then got up, swept the glass shards from the car window onto the ground, and got into the car.


    Once in the car, Qiu Tu glanced at the property manager and the locksmith.


    The two of them had been frightened since the gunshots sounded, hugging their heads and crouching on the ground.


    Qiu Tu pressed the horn and said with a cold look, "Aren''t you getting in the car; what are you waiting for?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the property manager and the locksmith exchanged frightened glances, hesitation in both of their eyes.


    They were reluctant to get in the car, but when they heard the intermittent gunfire from the nearby battlefield and saw Qiu Tu''s intimidating black Investigation Bureau uniform, they eventually climbed into the car with trembling legs.


    Seeing the two get into the car, Qiu Tu checked the second villa address Bai Ru had given him and stepped on the gas, heading for the second villa.


    This move of Qiu Tu''s left all the onlookers somewhat stupefied.


    What''s happening?


    Wasn''t Jia Shu supposed to attack Qiu Tu tonight?


    How come after "Jia Shu" attacked Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu just left without a care in the world?


    So, should everyone continue following Qiu Tu or watch "Jia Shu"?


    Those forces that had dispatched a whole team were alright; they simply split their forces. One continued to observe the battle between Lin Ting and "Jia Shu" at the original site, while the other followed Qiu Tu to see what tricks he was playing...


    And those forces that were short on manpower were in trouble, having to urgently call for reinforcements.


    Just like that, Qiu Tu, followed by nearly half of the watchers, quickly arrived at the second victim''s villa.


    The owner of this villa was Director Zhuang from the Environment and Sanitation Department.


    The procedure was the same as the last villa.


    Qiu Tu stopped the car, let the property manager and the locksmith open the door, while he himself first strolled around the villa. After that, he went in to inspect it.


    Similar to the first villa, this one also showed no signs of recent use. However, there were quite a few stains on the floor of the bedroom and bathroom.


    ```


    It looked like something left behind by the Masked Man in Suit and Wang Xi when they held Director Zhuang''s wife hostage.


    After confirming this villa was not the one where they were hiding people, Qiu Tu left the villa with his hands in his pockets.


    However, learning from the recent attack, he didn''t get straight into the car but warily had the property manager do it instead.


    The property manager was reluctant, but under the pressure Qiu Tu applied, he had no choice but to obey.


    Qiu Tu''s tactic proved effective.


    As soon as the property manager drove the car out, a dark figure slowly emerged from the shadows not far away.


    His hair was stained blood red, his face was covered with a grinning mask, and he was dressed in a sharp suit, appearing somewhat gaunt.


    It was the third Masked Man in Suit!


    "Qiu Tu...?"


    His voice was a bit high-pitched and his tone somewhat gentle, sounding like a woman...


    But Qiu Tu didn''t pay it any mind; he just smiled at the Masked Man in Suit and then...


    suddenly shouted behind him, "Help! Help! Is there any colleague from the Security Department to save me?"


    This move from Qiu Tu almost made all the Scouts monitoring the situation trip over themselves!


    Is this a damn assassination? Are you calling for backup so casually? S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And... you''re a Section Chief from the Investigation Bureau, can you really call for backup from the Security Department?


    And while they were thinking this.


    A team of specialists from the Security Department emerged from the nearby woods, led by none other than Lin Zuo.


    With a face full of annoyance, he cursed at Qiu Tu, "I knew we were going to have to intervene."


    With that, he waved his hand, ordering the specialists to spread out and prepare for the assault!


    Seeing the Security Department taking over the battlefield, Qiu Tu hopped into the passenger seat of his car and waved at Lin Zuo, "Then I''ll leave the rest to Section Chief Lin!"


    After saying that, he gestured to the property manager to drive away from the second villa.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s shameless behavior, Lin Zuo''s frustration intensified.


    But since his boss Qin Shuman had arranged this rescue mission, he had no choice but to follow orders, so he channeled all his anger towards the man in the suit!


    So, when the sedan was far away, Qiu Tu turned to look back and saw the team of Security Department specialists, some engaging in close combat, others shooting from a distance, already clashing with the man in the suit.


    And seeing that the man in the suit was making calculated advances and retreats, and that bullets only broke a layer of skin and drew a bit of blood...


    Qiu Tu had no more doubts about the identity of this Masked Man in Suit.


    ''Really.... another Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened?''


    Qiu Tu was finally beginning to understand why the Sanctuary was so sensitive towards the Evil Gods.


    Just a mere Larilo was capable of cultivating or... breeding so many Second Order Cataclysmics.


    How much more terrifying must the other, more powerful Evil Gods be?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also recalculated his assets for the night.


    After crunching the numbers, his expression was far from optimistic...


    ''I hope to force the real Jia Shu out before I have to play my last card.''


    With that thought, under the property manager''s driving, Qiu Tu''s somewhat battered sedan sped towards the third villa!


    -------


    30,000 characters haha. Chapter 3 should update around 20:00. Seeking Monthly Tickets, seeking subscriptions!

 Chapter 210 - 170: Jia Shu, You’re Arrested (11,000 words, subscribe!)

    Meanwhile, news of Qiu Tu''s second assassination attempt also began to spread rapidly among the scouts of various factions, who were paying attention to the forces orchestrating the attack tonight.


    Upon learning that another Masked Man in Suit had appeared, and still exhibiting the strength of a Second-Order Cataclysmic, all forces sensed something eerie about the matter.


    Second-Order Cataclysmics were no common occurrence, so how could so many suddenly emerge? And why were they all dressed alike?


    ''Is it some kind of Cataclysmic ability? Cataclysmic treasures? Or a special gift bestowed by an Evil God?''


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. Ninth floor, office of the Director of the Administrative Office.


    Secretary Bai stood by the window, holding a cup of hot tea, warming his hands while staring at the dark sky outside, pondering...


    ''Was the person who attacked Qiu Tu tonight really Jia Shu?''


    ''What exactly does he want to do, giving up such a high status and position...?''


    As Yan Chen''s chief secretary, all information from the scouts was first collated by him before he would filter it and notify Ji Chen and Yan Chen.


    Therefore, he was almost fully focused on the assassination tonight.


    It was only because his own strength was insufficient that he didn''t go down to help Qiu Tu through this calamity¡­


    ...


    The property manager clearly had no experience with cars and didn''t know how to drive.


    In the sparsely populated villa area with few vehicles and pedestrians, driving wasn''t too difficult¡ªprovided one was willing to endure some bumps and scrapes.


    So, the increasingly battered car, after hitting who knows how many trees and walls, finally came to a wobbly stop in front of the third villa!


    This time, Qiu Tu hadn''t even had the chance to inspect the villa.


    He had just gotten out of the car when a rather burly Masked Man in Suit appeared at close range and "bang, bang, bang" fired three shots at Qiu Tu!


    Luckily, Qiu Tu had just taken the ''Iron Will Potion'' while in the car, which brought his attention and reactivity to their limits.


    So upon sensing something wrong, he did a donkey roll and scrambled to take cover behind the car.


    Seeing that he hadn''t achieved his goal, the burly Masked Man in Suit clearly didn''t plan to give up. He kept advancing on Qiu Tu while continuing to shoot relentlessly!


    Qiu Tu, while returning fire, shouted, "Secretary Tao! I think you''ve enjoyed the show enough for tonight! Lend me a hand!"


    Far away.


    Commissioner Jiang''s voluptuous chief secretary, Tao Yaoyao¡ªdressed in a black silk miniskirt business suit and high heels, her legs long and refined¡ªstood on the rooftop of a villa.


    She held binoculars, watching the location where Qiu Tu was being attacked, while listening to reports from subordinates through the Communicator.


    After hearing about Qiu Tu''s shameless cry for help from her subordinate, Tao Yaoyao fell silent for two seconds before finally issuing an order. "Go save him."


    "But... just hold the attackers off. Be careful of your safety."


    A man''s voice came through the earpiece, "Yes!"


    Following Tao Yaoyao''s command, a squad of soldiers armed with rifles and dressed in camouflage burst out of the concealing foliage and began firing intensively at the Suit Man who had attacked Qiu Tu!


    It was evident that this Suit Man was also a Second-Order Cataclysmic; Qiu Tu''s handgun had done little to harm him. But with the onslaught of rifles, the Suit Man didn''t dare to be reckless and quickly dodged for cover!


    Seizing the opportunity, Qiu Tu once again fled in the car.


    This time, Qiu Tu even left behind the property manager and the locksmith¡ªsince the Suit Man had already made it clear that he wouldn''t allow villa inspections, there was no need to bring the two along.


    With the secret forces from the City Hall now suppressing the area, it was certainly much safer than the journey ahead for Qiu Tu.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced at the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision.


    Unconsciously, during his continued escape, an hour and a half had already passed.


    Now, only two hours remained until Jia Shu''s deadline for the attack.


    And Qiu Tu had only two cards left in his hand...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu, sticking to the plan, drove to the fourth villa.


    This time, the fifth Suit Man didn''t even bother to hide for an ambush but stood at the villa''s entrance, masked, silently waiting for Qiu Tu''s arrival.


    When he saw Qiu Tu stop the car, he smiled politely and asked in a gentle voice, "You''ve called upon people from the Investigation Bureau, the military, and the City Hall, the three major powers."


    "Who do you plan to call for help this time?"


    The events of the night were almost laid bare at this point.


    The Suit Man had guessed what Qiu Tu was planning, the entirety of Qiu Tu''s agenda.


    And Qiu Tu had guessed the true identity and Cataclysmic ability of the Suit Man.


    What remained was to see who held more cards...


    So Qiu Tu said with a smile, "You know, I really do have one last rescuer left."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu put his hand to his mouth and whistled sharply, then shouted loudly, "Bureau Chief, save me!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Suit Man''s body tensed sharply, his eyes narrowing slightly, evidently thinking Yan Chen had arrived.


    But as Tang Feifei slowly emerged from the darkness, the Suit Man felt... it might have been better to face Yan Chen instead.


    This fierce female leopard''s combat strength was among the best in all of Xinjie City...


    "Sister Tang, I''m leaving the rest to you. Thanks!"


    After saying this, Qiu Tu slammed the steering wheel and floored the gas pedal, racing off into the darkness of the villa district.


    The reason Tang Feifei was the last one he wanted to reveal was because she was Qiu Tu''s most important hidden card¡ªafter all, she was his most crucial secret ally.


    If it weren''t for being driven into a corner, maybe he would never have played this trump card.


    Of course, Qiu Tu was not the sentimental type, now that life and death were at stake, a trump card needed to be played when necessary!


    Besides, having played all his cards, the opponent probably had nothing left up their sleeve either!


    Thinking this way, as he continued to drive, Qiu Tu also made a quick tally of the opponent''s remaining cards.


    The Suit Man was the boss, Wang Xi was Old Qi. Assuming the other five people remaining were all doppelgangers, then... they had all shown their hands now.


    So... if they still wanted to kill him tonight, there was only one possibility left...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look towards the dark road ahead...


    ''So... Director, it''s time for you to make a choice. To back down, or to... advance.''


    Meanwhile.


    Within the shadow of the car driven by Qiu Tu, a pair of crimson eyes slowly opened.


    There was no hesitation in those eyes, no wandering, only madness, only an overflowing desire...


    ...


    At the same time.


    A black sedan slowly drove into Yan Chen''s Garden Villa in Xinjie City, smoothly arriving at the villa''s entrance.


    Once the car stopped, the Director of the Political Department, Jia Shu, got out.


    Ji Chen, who had already been waiting at the villa''s entrance, hurriedly stepped forward to meet him.


    He bowed slightly and said, "Director, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you in the study."


    Hearing his words, Jia Shu straightened his clothes, a smile that wasn''t quite a smile appearing on his face, "Good. I also wanted to have a chat with the Bureau Chief."


    He nonchalantly swept a glance at the villa entrance, his gaze lingering for a moment on one of the maids with attractive features, before following Ji Chen toward the study... S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    .....


    The five villas, although all located on the outskirts of the Longshan Road villa complex, were worlds apart in distance.


    Therefore, this time, Qiu Tu drove for a good fifteen minutes before arriving at the fifth villa.


    When he reached the entrance of the fifth villa, Qiu Tu stopped the car, turned off the ignition, and got out.


    Leaning against a beaten-up sedan that was nearly beyond repair, Qiu Tu glanced at the countdown timer. There was only 1 hour and 20 minutes left until this crisis would be over.


    Qiu Tu was not in a hurry; he just lit a cigarette, quietly smoked it, and patiently waited...


    Time slowly passed, one minute, two minutes, three minutes.....


    After finishing the cigarette, Qiu Tu threw the butt to the ground, stamped it out, then turned around to get back in the car and continue waiting.


    However, just as he opened the car door and was about to step in!


    Suddenly, the shadows on the ground twisted crazily as if they had come to life.


    The next second, a black figure silently surged up from the shadows on the ground!


    One slash!


    Just one slash!


    Qiu Tu''s head was completely severed from his body!


    Qiu Tu''s eyes clearly still held shock and disbelief, as if he couldn''t understand what had happened!


    The next second, with two dull thuds, his head and body toppled to the muddy road....


    Seeing this scene, the shadow revealed a smirk, then stepped through the shadows, drawing closer to Qiu Tu, with his silhouette slowly rising, as if he was coming out of the darkness.


    But just as he reached Qiu Tu''s head, Qiu Tu''s still-bleeding head suddenly cracked a sinister smile, "Director. You lost this game."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the shadow with crimson eyes suddenly widened, jerking his head down and then saw that Qiu Tu, who was supposed to be beheaded, mysteriously vanished into thin air with a flicker!


    The next second, several middle-aged men in white uniforms slowly walked out from the villa.


    They looked at Jia Shu with disappointment and said solemnly, "Jia Shu, you are under arrest."


    With a wave of the leading man''s hand, a white cage fell from the sky and encased the attempting-to-escape Jia Shu!


    Even the normally stoic Jia Shu couldn''t quite control his expression at that moment!


    As he was being restrained and falling to the ground, he shouted incredulously, "The Disciplinary Department! Why are you here!"


    "Why are you here!"


    "Impossible, this can''t be possible!"


    The next second, possibly having guessed Qiu Tu''s entire plan and all his cards, Jia Shu''s figure jolted and his expression froze.


    Shortly after, he began to laugh maniacally, "Hahaha, hehehe. So that''s how it is, that''s how it is..."


    -------


    Chapter three, ten thousand words, ha. The third chapter should be updated around 20:00. Asking for Monthly Tickets and subscriptions!

 Chapter 211 - 171: Revealing the Plan After Arresting Jia Shu (11,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing Jia Shu''s somewhat manic and inexplicable words, the three white-clad men from the Disciplinary Department didn''t say anything; they just looked at him with a cold indifference.


    Meanwhile, "tap tap tap..." a series of footsteps approached from a distance. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shortly after, Tang Feifei, dressed neatly and looking relaxed, emerged from the darkness.


    In her hand, she was dragging a Masked Man in Suit, lifeless as a dead dog.


    Compared to her nonchalant demeanor, the Suit Man''s condition was clearly much worse¡ªnot only were his clothes in tatters, his body was covered with bruises, not a single spot on his skin was intact, and his head was so swollen it resembled a pig''s head; he had long since passed out.


    When they reached the villa''s entrance, Tang Feifei tossed the Masked Man in Suit next to Jia Shu as if throwing away trash.


    With a muffled "thud," the Masked Man in Suit landed beside Jia Shu like a piece of ragged cloth.


    During the collision, his mask fell off, revealing a delicate face that somewhat resembled Jia Shu''s, yet it was not quite the same.


    At this sight, Jia Shu, tied up on the ground, showed little surprise.


    Having already figured out all of Qiu Tu''s arrangements, he could still afford to smile amidst the situation. His bloodshot eyes were fixed on Tang Feifei, filled with coldness and madness.


    "Director Tang, I didn''t expect you and Qiu Tu to have joined forces so early,"


    "No wonder, at the last high-level meeting, your behavior was so out of character. Everyone thought you were suppressing Qiu Tu, but in fact... you were deliberately laying the groundwork for Qiu Tu''s promotion, right?"


    "If I''m not mistaken, the people from the Disciplinary Department were also invited by the two of you, right?"


    The Disciplinary Department, directly subordinate to the Supreme Sanctuary Council, is a special agency tasked with overseeing crime among the upper echelons within the Planning Area. Although not the highest in rank, their power is immense, and their strength formidable.


    Previously, Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu had been discussing using the excuse of Jia Shu''s dereliction of duty and silencing key suspects to apply to the Sanctuary for an investigation, hoping to involve this department.


    Hearing Jia Shu''s interrogation, Tang Feifei gave him a cold glance, having no interest in speaking with a loser.


    She only looked at the three white-clad men from the Disciplinary Department and then said, "I trust you have recorded the entire process tonight."


    "I''ll leave Jia Shu to you. I am going to continue cleaning up the mess now."


    She pointed at the gunshots coming from the darkness not far away and said, "Those guys are a bit troublesome; the others probably can''t handle them."


    The leading white-clad man "hmm-ed" in affirmation, signaling, "Director Tang, please proceed. No one can escape from our grasp."


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei no longer lingered and with a sudden surge, she burst into the darkness, swooping toward the source of the distant gunfire!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Investigation Bureau building, ninth floor, Tang Feifei''s office lounge.


    Qiu Tu, dressed in a bathrobe and washed clean, was squatting on the ground, gazing somberly at the "head" that had rolled to his feet.


    The head looked exactly like Qiu Tu, indistinguishable in any way, as if it were truly Qiu Tu''s own head: even... the severed neck was still spurting blood with a "zzz" sound.


    Picking up the "head" that was his own, Qiu Tu placed it next to the headless body, then proceeded with the plan by using his Cataclysmic ability, "Order Space."


    "As long as my spiritual power doesn''t run out, ''Uncompromising Simulacrum'' has self-healing abilities and will repair at the fastest rate!"


    As Qiu Tu set the rules for his ability, a bunch of disgusting flesh sprouts immediately grew on the severed neck in front of him, then reconnected with the headless body....


    While the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was repairing, Qiu Tu also squatted down, quietly recounting his entire plan for the night....


    Actually, as soon as Qiu Tu heard the terms "boss" and "Old Qi" in Wang Xi''s memories, but did not see anyone else, he had already guessed that Suit Man or Jia Shu likely had the ability to create duplicates or split themselves.


    Therefore, he knew that even if he were attacked by Jia Shu tonight, Jia Shu would probably be fully prepared, with a solid alibi in place.


    His only concern was: would Jia Shu''s "True Body" be the one providing the alibi, while remotely controlling other "duplicates" or people to attack him?


    So, Qiu Tu purposefully wrote a promotion application today and met with Jia Shu to confirm the authenticity of Jia Shu himself.


    The results greatly relieved Qiu Tu: the "Jia Shu" in the office, although he looked, spoke, and wrote exactly like Jia Shu, some details still made Qiu Tu feel something was off.


    This meant that in tonight''s attack, Jia Shu probably wasn''t sitting back safely fishing at the bureau and commanding from a distance; instead, to ensure no mistakes, he personally entered the fray.


    This outcome allowed Qiu Tu to be completely at ease.


    Now there were only two issues left.


    1. How many duplicates did Jia Shu, the Suit Man, have? How could they exhaust all of Jia Shu, the Suit Man''s duplicates, and draw out Jia Shu himself to fall into the trap?


    2. How could Qiu Tu protect his own life when Jia Shu''s cards were all on the table?


    The answer to the former was already evident. To exhaust those duplicates one after another, Qiu Tu truly utilized all the connections and arrangements he had accumulated over time, leaving nothing to spare.


    Yan Chen''s arrangement of Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, the action team from the Security Department''s Investigation Department, Commissioner Jiang''s secret forces, Tang Feifei, and the Supervisors that Tang Feifei invited from the Sanctuary....

 Chapter 212 - 171: Revealing the Plan After Arresting Jia Shu (11,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)_2

    All forces that were monitoring tonight''s operation were almost entirely dragged down by Qiu Tu!


    And they did not "disappoint" Qiu Tu''s expectations, as they indeed succeeded in holding back Jia Shu and Suit Man''s four avatars!


    This forced Jia Shu to take action himself, thus ultimately falling into Qiu Tu''s trap!


    As for the latter....


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" that had already been repaired.


    Then he reached out his hand and beckoned.


    The next second, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" "wah wah wah" vomited a lot of blood and then rapidly shrank in size.


    In no time, the 1.8-meter-tall "Qiu Tu" had turned into a thumb-sized, stiff-bodied, faceless, featureless little figure.


    This was one of the two Cataclysmic treasures Qiu Tu had won in the "Salvage Game" two days ago.


    Its function was that as long as it absorbed enough blood, it could become a second body for the user.


    The user''s spirit and soul could enter this body and control the simulacrum as if it was another body, with the simulacrum able to execute the user''s every command with "uncompromising" precision.


    A somewhat ordinary, clone-type Cataclysmic treasure. Moreover, it came with a significant cost¡ªnot only did it need to be fed blood every two days, but it also required an extravagant amount of blood.


    Even for a Cataclysmic like Qiu Tu, activating this simulacrum had nearly drained him dry; otherwise, his complexion wouldn''t still be so pale¡­


    However, it was precisely because of this Cataclysmic treasure that Qiu Tu was able to successfully perform such a grand act tonight¡ª


    After saying goodbye to Liu Fuping, he went to the bathroom.


    In the restroom, Qiu Tu cut his arm with a small knife and activated the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" with a large amount of blood.


    Then in the restroom, he took off his uniform and handed it over to the "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    The simulacrum replaced him in leaving the restroom and began the evening''s performance.


    Meanwhile, he himself put on the spare clothes he had prepared earlier, and while no one was looking, he slipped away quietly to hide in Tang Feifei''s resting room for remote operation.


    To make the play convincing enough to successfully lure out Jia Shu, and to prevent any leaks, Qiu Tu told no one about this plan except for Tang Feifei.


    Moreover, he played his role to the hilt, leaving the expensive "Trigger Paper Figure" Tang Feifei had given him on the "Uncompromising Simulacrum"! He countered Jia Shu''s first attack and successfully deceived everyone!


    Late, before the second attack, Qiu Tu drank an "Iron Will Potion," which made his spirit more tenacious, his focus sharper, and his reactivity quicker, thus avoiding the second Suit Man''s attack!


    After that came Tang Feifei''s proactive entrance, protecting the third attack that Qiu Tu faced!


    By then, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" had still not been exposed. And in the end, it lured out Jia Shu''s true body, who came to personally assassinate Qiu Tu!


    At that moment, because of the fading effect of the "Iron Will Potion" and Jia Shu''s overwhelming strength, Qiu Tu was no longer able to keep up with the reaction time, and the simulacrum could only be decapitated with a single slash!


    However, by then, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" had thoroughly fulfilled its mission!


    After revealing himself, Jia Shu completely fell into Qiu Tu''s trap and was captured by the Disciplinary Department. His painstakingly constructed alibi also became ineffective....


    The whole plan was tightly linked, and Qiu Tu had to lay out all his cards and rely on the tugging of various forces, accumulated Cataclysmic treasures, and precious information asymmetry, to painstakingly win this round against Jia Shu!


    However, the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was the core of this plan, but was not irreplaceable. A "Seal of Ownership" could have been used to achieve a similar effect.


    After all, once Qiu Tu visited the first and second villas, he had essentially shown his hand to Jia Shu that his next move would inevitably be the remaining three villas.


    Therefore, it was highly likely that Jia Shu''s true body would be hiding near the fourth or fifth villa, ready for a final struggle.


    At that time, all Qiu Tu needed to do was to drive to the fifth villa. He wouldn''t need to suffer Jia Shu''s assassination and could directly use the "Seal of Ownership" to be summoned away by Qin Shuman.


    Leaving the lured Jia Shu alone to face the Supervisors.


    However, in doing so, since Jia Shu hadn''t attacked Qiu Tu, it couldn''t be considered catching the thief red-handed. There would still be some room for argument¡ªfor example, he could claim that he had been following Qiu Tu all along to protect him.


    So, in the end, for safety and a fail-safe plan, Qiu Tu still chose to use the costly "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    And with the "Seal of Ownership" saved by this, he used it on the "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    So, when the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was killed by Jia Shu in one strike, Qiu Tu immediately used the "Seal of Ownership" to retrieve it.


    And with the "Order Space" he had intentionally saved for today, he had it repaired at once.


    After all, although this Cataclysmic treasure came at a high price, it could still play a very crucial role at certain key moments!


    Qiu Tu went over the string of plans he had set for himself tonight once more and took a deep breath. He felt incredibly tired...


    This fatigue was not merely physical but also mental.


    Having been mentally strained all night, now that he suddenly relaxed, he was overwhelmed with exhaustion....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu dismissed the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" and then deactivated his Cataclysmic ability.


    As the Cataclysmic ability was lifted, waves of pain that felt as if his brain was being drained hit him once again.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t flustered in the slightest and took out the "Nightmare Crystal Vial" he had prepared earlier, opened it, and drank it all.


    As the liquid that restored spiritual power slid down his throat, Qiu Tu quickly replenished his energy, and the tightness of his spirit throughout the night eased a bit.....


    Sitting quietly on the ground for a while, Qiu Tu slowly got up.


    Wearing slippers, he walked to the window of Tang Feifei''s resting room and looked out at Xinjie City''s still darkened sky, his gaze profound.


    Although he had successfully lured Jia Shu into a trap with a series of tightly interlocked strategies,


    and with the Diciplinary Department personally taking action to arrest him, Jia Shu had almost no chance of turning the tables.


    But.... one should know that the key to tonight''s event was not only Jia Shu.


    There was also... that Heretic Goddess Girl lurking behind all the conspiracies.


    What exactly was Jia Shu''s relationship with that Heretic Goddess Girl?


    What was his relationship with those Suit Men?


    Why was he so interested in me?


    The death of the original host, my transmigration, did they have any relation to Jia Shu, and that Heretic Goddess Girl?


    Too many mysteries were waiting for Qiu Tu to unravel.


    Moreover, as one of the nine senior officials of the Investigation Bureau, the highest head of the Political Department, what kind of massive impact would Jia Shu''s arrest have on the Investigation Bureau, the military, the City Hall, and the entire Xinjie City?


    Qiu Tu felt as if he had just cast a huge stone into a placid lake!


    Billows had formed and were about to spread, continuing to evolve.


    Would they turn into fiercer waves?


    Or dissipate gradually, wave by wave, until calm returned.....


    Thinking in this way and after appreciating the dark night view for a while, Qiu Tu slowly withdrew his gaze.


    Then.... he picked up the dossier of Jia Shu beside him, looked at the "brother" under the relatives section, and fell into deep contemplation....


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the City Center Garden Villa.


    "Jia Shu," led by Ji Chen, also arrived at Yan Chen''s study.


    As usual, Yan Chen''s entire being was hidden in the darkness, not letting anyone discern his expression... S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After Ji Chen left and closed the door of the study, Yan Chen finally spoke slowly,


    "You''ve made too much noise with tonight''s affair, Jia Shu...."


    He paused, his gaze neither joyous nor sad, fell on "Jia Shu," and then he corrected himself, "Or should I say... Jia Wei."


    ------


    Took a day off work without leave to rush this manuscript. Three chapters, 11,000 words! Requesting Monthly Tickets! Requesting subscriptions!


    Many details and foreshadowings have been hinted at in this chapter for digging into, those interested may want to take a closer look.


    ----


    PS: Recommending a Dragon Ball fanfiction - "Dragon Ball: I''m Really Not the God of Destruction," for friends who like Dragon Ball, here''s the introduction:


    I''m really not the God of Destruction; I''m just a Kaioshin who can use destruction and is even more powerful than the Angels!


    God-level Saiyan Beersay becomes a deity in three days, countdown begins...

 Chapter 213 - 172: Different Reactions from All Sides! (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    The night sky was already pitch-black, with dark clouds crushing down upon the heavens, concealing the moonlight.


    In Yan Chen''s study, however, not even the ceiling light was turned on; only the small desk lamp remained alight.


    Thus, the whole study resembled a giant dark beast with a gaping bloody maw, ready to choose its prey and devour!


    With Yan Chen suddenly revealing such shocking news, the atmosphere in the study instantly tensed up!


    But amidst this tension, Jia Shu...no, it should be said Jia Wei, suddenly burst into an unrestrained laugh with a loud "haha".


    While laughing, he exaggeratedly clapped his hands, "My brother said you would see through my disguise, and I didn''t believe it at the time."


    "Now it seems I really underestimated you, Director Yan."


    In the face of Jia Wei''s disrespectful and even somewhat contemptuous demeanor, Yan Chen''s aged face showed no expression.


    He first took out a cigarette and placed it in his mouth.


    Next, he reached out with his dry hand and groped for a matchbox on the mahogany desk.


    He opened the matchbox and took out a match.


    "Strike!"


    As the sound of the match scraping echoed, a burst of flame blossomed in the dim study.


    Yan Chen brought the flame close and lit his cigarette, then gently shook the matchstick as he spoke in an even tone, "All these years have passed, and you''re still clinging to your brother."


    "Back then, you caused so much trouble in the Sanctuary."


    "If it weren''t for your brother cleaning up your mess, you would probably have been executed by now."


    "Why don''t you ever learn your lesson?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s emotions clearly became unstable. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His eyes bloodshot, he stared intently at Yan Chen and roared, "I''ll say it again! I didn''t kill those people!"


    "You just don''t believe me! Don''t believe me!"


    "If it weren''t for your botched handling of cases, maybe I wouldn''t be doing worse than my brother right now!"


    Compared to him, Yan Chen seemed ever more relaxed. He let out a "hehe" and countered, "If not you, who could it be?"


    "At that time, you were the only one at the scene, your fingerprints were on the weapon, and the blood on your body matched the splatter pattern."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s expression grew even more manic, glaring fiercely at Yan Chen as if he would pounce and tear at Yan Chen at any second.


    But...just when he was about to lose control of his emotions, suddenly, his entire demeanor halted.


    He was like someone who had been hit with a "restart" button, his mood receding as quickly as the tide.


    He resumed his flippant attitude once more.


    He then looked at Yan Chen with raised eyebrows and said nonchalantly, "Old man, don''t always try to provoke my emotions and trick me. I have come here this time because I have a matter to discuss with you."


    Seeing that Jia Wei hadn''t lost control, a fleeting disappointment flickered through Yan Chen''s eyes before vanishing.


    With drooping eyelids, he quietly smoked as he asked in a calm voice, "What''s the matter?"


    Jia Wei said, "We want to make a deal with you¡ªa mutually beneficial deal."


    Yan Chen, "You all?"


    The smile on Jia Wei''s face was slightly wicked, "Yes, us."


    He continued, "You must have already received the news a few days ago, right?"


    "In order to better rebuild the Planning Area and to allow the three major authorities to integrate more effectively, those old men above are considering establishing a higher-level administrative unit in the Planning Area."


    Yan Chen hummed noncommittally, and a plume of white smoke rose up, obscuring his visage.


    Jia Wei said, "The exact information we got is that Xinjie City, Eastern City, Jingnan City, Xingye City, and 12 other cities will be merged into one state¡ªDongye State!"


    "At that time, Dongye State will establish a State Council, modeled after the Sanctuary."


    "The State Council will be the highest authority in the entire state, second to none."


    "The top officials from your 12 cities and 3 major institutions will automatically become council members, meaning the most powerful people in the state."


    "However...among these members, a Speaker and three Deputy Speakers will emerge."


    At this point, Jia Wei paused in his speech. His eyes, red as blood, brimmed with confidence, "And we...are sure we can at least bolster you into the position of Deputy Speaker!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, an expression finally crossed Yan Chen''s face.


    He looked up, his face filled with emotion, "You can help me become Deputy Speaker?"


    "You all...what makes you so sure you can do this?"


    With a grin, Jia Wei said, "Old man, don''t try to test me. Unless you agree to us, I won''t reveal anything."


    After finishing, he stared intensely at Yan Chen, "I''m just here to ask on behalf of the people behind me, are you willing to make this deal?"


    With Jia Wei''s words, the study fell silent for a moment.


    Yan Chen didn''t speak for a long time. He quietly smoked the last bit of his cigarette, then extinguished the butt in the ashtray.


    Only then did he look up and inquire, "What do you want?"


    Seeing that Yan Chen was tempted, Jia Wei''s smile deepened, "Actually, we don''t want much."


    "I remember, a new Moonlight Lake is forming in the middle region between Xinjie City and Eastern City, where it''s said to produce roughly 1.3 tons of Cataclysmic Material: Tears of Moonlight..."


    At Jia Wei''s words, Yan Chen jerked his head up, a look of surprise on his face.


    Still smiling, Jia Wei said, "We want half of that yield."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen was so exasperated that he laughed, "Do you think I own that Moonlight Lake as my private property?"


    "You think if I say I''ll give it to you, then I can give it to you?"

 Chapter 214 - 172: Different Reactions from All Sides! (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)_2

    ```


    "Even if I agree to give it to you, would Ye Mingfeng agree? Would Jiang Zhenpeng agree? Would Eastern City agree?" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen was referring to the other two of Xinjie City''s Three Giants: General Ye of the military and Commissioner Jiang of City Hall.


    However, upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei''s expression remained unchanged; he simply looked at Yan Chen with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, his eyes full of confidence¡­


    At first, Yan Chen was still smiling, but it quickly faded.


    He lifted his eyes, his aged gaze emotionless as he looked at Jia Wei, "You can take care of Ye Mingfeng and Jiang Zhenpeng?"


    Jia Wei didn''t answer.


    Yan Chen continued to probe, "So... What about Eastern City?"


    Jia Wei''s smile stretched almost to his ears.


    Seeing this, Yan Chen took a deep breath, his eyelids drooping as he leaned back with a hint of lament in his voice, "Is it really interesting to be a traitor?"


    "Our human fate is already fraught enough. As compatriots, why add insult to injury...?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, the malice in Jia Wei''s eyes overflowed. He glared menacingly at Yan Chen and said, "Human fate fraught? Heh heh heh."


    "Have you ever considered my fate?"


    "If it weren''t for your misjudgment back then! Maybe I, too, would have had a bright future!"


    "It was you who pushed me into this bottomless abyss?!"


    "Now you talk to me of pity? Of fate?! Pah!"


    "You told me that these Evil Gods were the culprits behind the Era of Disaster! But have they ever harmed me?!"


    "On the contrary, it is you, all my present sufferings are caused by you!"


    Yan Chen, upon hearing these words, was long silent.


    And just as the atmosphere in the study was turning somewhat subdued, suddenly, the door of the study was knocked on "bang bang bang."


    Then, the door opened, and Ji Chen stood at the door of the study.


    He glanced at the agitated Jia Wei and then turned to Yan Chen, tentatively asking, "Bureau Chief, there''s important intelligence¡­"


    Yan Chen himself wanted to break the current conversational atmosphere, so he nodded slightly.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen quickly walked over to Yan Chen. He bent down, leaned in close to Yan Chen''s ear, covering his mouth with his hand, and whispered, "Bureau Chief, Secretary Bai just sent a message."


    "Reports from our people below say, tonight on-site, four Mysterious persons attacked Qiu Tu in succession, all very powerful, likely all Second-Order Cataclysmics Awakened."


    "Spectating powers around the scene are being dragged into the battlefield, either actively or passively."


    "Besides Minister Lin Ting, there are combat teams from the Security Department, defense teams from the Municipal Committee, and... Director Tang."


    "Tang Feifei?" Hearing this name, Yan Chen''s gaze fluctuated slightly, pondering something.


    Ji Chen hummed in acknowledgment, then continued, "However, our people down there aren''t clear if Director Tang came at Qiu Tu''s invitation or if she sniffed out something and came on her own."


    "Moreover, it wasn''t just her who came; people from the Disciplinary Department showed up with her."


    Hearing this, Yan Chen''s brow furrowed deeply.


    Then, Ji Chen quietly glanced at the "Jia Shu" in front of him and continued to whisper, "According to the scouts'' report, Minister Jia seems to have been taken away by the Disciplinary Department''s people."


    "But the exact reason isn''t clear. Perhaps he attacked Qiu Tu?"


    "Moreover, Qiu Tu now appears to be missing as well."


    "Judging from the blood traces and signs left on the ground, he is suspected to have been... killed."


    Yan Chen''s gaze grew even more somber upon hearing this.


    He pondered in silence for a moment, then finally said, "Give him a call."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen first looked up at Jia Wei before taking out the communicator to dial Qiu Tu''s number.


    After a moment, the call connected, but what rang out was the urgent "beep beep beep" of the line.


    Ji Chen, somewhat surprised, said, "Qiu Tu seems to be on the phone? Looks like he might be fine?"


    ```


    Yan Chen heard the remark and nodded slightly.


    Seeing this, Ji Chen turned his eyes and deliberately asked, "But, Director Tang, he just had a narrow escape, so who is he on the phone with now?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Chen lightly furrowed his brows, his expression neither happy nor sad, inscrutable...


    .....


    At this time, Qiu Tu was indeed on the phone.


    Or rather... As scouts from various factions gradually found the last battleground and discovered traces of Qiu Tu''s "death," his phone hadn''t stopped ringing.


    The first call was from Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman was clearly frantic over the phone.


    As soon as the call connected, she bombarded him with a series of questions.


    "Where are you?" "Are you okay?" "Are you hurt?" "Are you still safe? Should I come to find you?" and other similar questions.


    Touched by her concern, Qiu Tu teased the female officer a bit.


    After all... the Qin Shuman he knew had always been calm, collected, and confident, not at all flustered like she was now.


    After reassuring Qin Shuman and making small talk for a bit, Qiu Tu also inquired about the progress of the situation after he left and the attitude of the Security Department toward the entire incident.


    According to Qin Shuman, Tang Feifei had arrived just in time, so apart from Commissioner Jiang''s security team leaving no enemies behind, the other three Masked Men in Suits who were held up were successfully apprehended!


    Subsequently, these three Masked Men in Suits were all taken away by Supervisors from the Disciplinary Department.


    With that, the entire assassination attempt came to a conclusive end.


    And Bureau Chief Dai Yukang from the Security Department had been nearly entirely focused on the event throughout the evening.


    Once everything settled, he only remarked with eight words, "A mastermind of strategy, determining the fate of the heavens."


    For the typically critical Dai Yukang, this was indeed the highest praise he could offer.


    Moreover, Qin Shuman mentioned that because of this incident, Dai Yukang was looking to meet with Qiu Tu in the next couple of days.


    Although Dai Yukang did not specify the reason for the meeting, both of them guessed that Dai Yukang must have taken an interest in Qiu Tu and wanted to fully recruit him into the military''s ranks...


    After hanging up with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately received a call from Commissioner Jiang''s confidential secretary, Tao Yaoyao.


    Perhaps because their relationship wasn''t firmly established, Tao Yaoyao didn''t overtly praise Qiu Tu like Qin Shuman had.


    She only delivered a message from Commissioner Jiang, "Quite satisfied with tonight''s gift..."


    Afterward, she also extended a meeting invitation on behalf of Commissioner Jiang to Qiu Tu.


    Of course, Qiu Tu readily accepted.


    To be honest, he was quite interested in this stunning secretary and the enigmatic Commissioner Jiang and was very keen to get to know them better.


    Moreover... his name had risen in prominence in Xinjie City through recent cases, catching the attention of various factions.


    And with tonight''s events, he was almost certainly going to be exposed to Yan Chen, so it was indeed time to secure a new support or plan a few good exit strategies...


    The subsequent calls were from friends who cared about Qiu Tu and some with information channels.


    There was Secretary Bai, Liu Fuping, and even... Fang Ming, with whom Qiu Tu had cooperated numerous times before.


    This actually elevated Fang Ming''s standing in Qiu Tu''s heart by another level.


    This individual was not only sentimentally loyal but also well-connected.


    The knowledge of Qiu Tu''s assassination attempt, despite its significant impact on Xinjie City''s upper echelons, was likely to be within the knowledge of only the top levels of the three major power institutions that day.


    That Fang Ming got wind of it suggested his status was far from ordinary. It might well be related to his father, who resided on Longshan Road...


    Such a person, with a decent character and not-so-simple identity, was someone everyone would want to befriend.


    Besides the courting and concern of various factions and friends, there were also some unpleasant developments...


    --------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The third chapter will be updated around 20:00.

 Chapter 215 - 173: The Evil God Actually Appreciates Me? (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    It was Qiu Tu''s "Crisis Intuition" that had been triggered once again.


    And it was triggered three times at once.... S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Triggering crisis ''Appreciation of the Evil God,'' generating crisis report!"


    "You have successfully completed the task bestowed by the Evil God Larilo, helping the Evil God eliminate a stumbling block."


    "Because of this, Larilo appreciates you immensely."


    "She is preparing to meet you in your dreams in the coming days to once again tempt you into becoming her follower."


    "Please be aware that her appreciation could turn to rage fueled by rejection, and she may try to kill you by any means necessary!"


    "But if you accept, you will also be tagged as an ''Evil God Cultist,'' becoming a thorn in Sanctuary''s side."


    "So, please make your choice...."


    .......


    "Triggering crisis ''Threat in the Darkness,'' generating crisis report!"


    "Your meteoric rise has caught the attention of many schemers. At times, standing out in the forest is not a good thing. In the shadows, someone might have already set their sights on you...."


    ...


    "Triggering crisis ''Revenge of the Linked Formation,'' generating crisis report!"


    "Your personal slaughter of a small United Front squad is seen by them as a severe provocation."


    "Under someone''s instigation, the United Front has decided to teach you a profound lesson."


    "Therefore, you must protect yourself, your friends, and family."


    "You wouldn''t want to know what a group of frenzied thugs might do to you...."


    To be honest, when Qiu Tu saw that series of prompts and one countdown timer after another popping up, he was seriously puzzled!


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Had he stirred up the hornet''s nest of "Crisis Intuition"?


    Or had capturing Jia Shu triggered some sort of chain reaction?


    Why did three crisis countdowns suddenly come up all at once?


    And on top of that, what was this about "Appreciation of the Evil God" and "Revenge of the Linked Formation"?!?


    Did he really need Larilo''s appreciation?


    Did he think he couldn''t see through Larilo''s tactics? It was just the "Drive the wolf to devour the tiger" strategy he had wanted to use from the beginning.


    However, he had always thought Jia Shu was too dangerous, even more so than Larilo, so he took the opportunity provided by Larilo to collaborate with her and conveniently trapped Jia Shu in the process.


    And now... why had he been "appreciated"?


    Right now, in Qiu Tu''s heart, ten thousand alpacas were running wild!


    He slowly lay down on the soft, large bed in Tang Feifei''s bedroom, feeling utterly despondent: Forget it, let it all end, he was so tired....


    "Appreciation of the Evil God (72 hours)"


    "Revenge of the Linked Formation (10 days)"


    "Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)"


    ----


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu finished his call and lay in bed, feeling life was devoid of meaning.


    In a villa in the city, Yan Chen''s study.


    After a quick phone verification to check on Qiu Tu''s safety, Yan Chen said to Ji Chen with a solemn gaze, "Continue to monitor the movements of those Supervisors and the various forces."


    "Report to me at once in case of an emergency."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen promptly bowed and said, "Yes!"


    Yan Chen waved his hand indifferently, "You may leave."


    Hearing this, Ji Chen replied again, then stood up straight and left the study.


    As he closed the door of the study, his gaze swept over Jia Wei several times as if trying to discern whether the "Jia Shu" before him was real or fake...


    If the Jia Shu before him was real, then why would his subordinates report that Jia Shu had been taken away by the Disciplinary Department?


    If the Jia Shu who was taken away was the real one, then who was this "Jia Shu" here?


    The door to the study slowly closed, sealing all of Ji Chen''s doubts within.


    As the door to the study shut, silence fell over the room.


    After a moment, Jia Wei chuckled lightly and said, "Old man, your new assistant is far worse than my brother or Old Bai."


    "His ulterior motives are practically written all over his face. Don''t you care at all?"


    Yan Chen''s half of his body was shrouded in darkness, making it impossible to see his expression.


    He fell silent for a moment before speaking softly, "He just hasn''t been polished yet."


    Yan Chen clearly didn''t want to talk about this topic, so after giving a brief comment, he directly changed the subject, "You''ve already heard the things he just reported."


    "With all the troubles we have now, you''d better clean up your own mess first."


    "As for... the deal, I''ll come to you when I''ve made up my mind."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Jia Wei laughed nonchalantly. His focus had already shifted, and he stared at Yan Chen excitedly, asking, "My brother, has he been caught?"


    Yan Chen did not reply.


    But Jia Wei laughed as if he had heard the best news ever, holding his stomach and cackling madly, "He deserves it, truly deserves it!"


    "Let him lust after that junior officer''s body."


    "Now he''s fallen into a trap!"


    "Indeed, it is our God who is mighty, using just a simple trick to make them fight each other to the death."


    "Hahahaha."


    ```


    Listening to Jia Wei''s information-packed ravings, Yan Chen''s expression remained unchanged.


    He just watched quietly as Jia Wei ranted on and on.


    Only after Jia Wei had finished his frenzied speech and slowly came to a stop did Yan Chen leisurely raise his aged hand and gesture towards the door.


    Clearly, he was once again sending someone away.


    Seeing this, Jia Wei didn''t mind. His bloodshot eyes locked onto Yan Chen as he said with a smile, "Old man, you''ll come looking for us sooner or later."


    After saying this, he hummed a tune and cheerfully turned to walk towards the study door.


    When he reached the door, he reached out to grab the doorknob.


    But just as his hand was about to pull open the study door at that moment¡ª


    Suddenly!


    Stripe after stripe of straight bloodstains appeared out of nowhere on his entire body!


    The next second, blood erupted violently along those straight lines!


    And Jia Wei''s body was segmented into pieces, which then clattered to the floor!


    The only part that was still somewhat intact was his head!


    His face clearly bore an expression of disbelief, and his head frantically twisted backward, trying to look at Yan Chen!


    Until his head hit the ground did his eyes finally catch sight of Yan Chen!


    With a ferocious look, he cursed silently with his mouth, "Old bitch... "


    Afterward... his expression slowly solidified, and life faded away completely...


    The entire dismemberment scene was extremely eerie, as if it were cut instantaneously by some unseen thread!


    It was utterly creepy and terrifying!


    "Drip-drop" "Drip-drop"...


    Blood slowly dripped from the chunks of flesh, sounding exceptionally distinct in the silent study.


    Yan Chen, hidden in the darkness, slowly extended his aged arm from the shadows and picked up the teacup on the table.


    He sipped the tea from the lid, then opened it and took a small sip, it was bitter yet fragrant...


    ...


    Tang Feifei returned to the resting room at 12 o''clock midnight.


    By that time, Qiu Tu was already lying in bed and had fallen into a deep sleep.


    After a tiring day, having overexerted himself by bleeding and using spiritual power, he had completely drained his body and mind and urgently needed rest.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s pale face, Tang Feifei hesitated for a long time, her eyes flashing with frenzied golden light, but in the end, she didn''t pounce on him directly.


    She knew the difference between being fully satiated and being satisfied just for the moment.


    Even if she drained Qiu Tu tonight and upset him, it would be hard to lure him back in the future.


    It was better not to touch Qiu Tu tonight, to show some "broad-mindedness," and then slowly drain him after he had rested the next day!


    Thinking this way, Tang Feifei also took her change of clothes and went to take a shower...


    In the Shuigu Room, with steam enshrouding the air, Tang Feifei''s hand slid over her body. Since she had been prepared tonight but had not reached her goal, she felt something was missing.


    So, her hand slid down further...


    The way that used to be quite pleasurable to her felt suddenly numb after the day and night she had spent with Qiu Tu.


    Tang Feifei rubbed a few times and then, expressionless, withdrew her hand...


    .....


    The night passed without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up naturally from a restful sleep.


    Perhaps he had gotten enough rest, or maybe it was the strong constitution of the Cataclysmics. When he woke up, he felt energetic, as if he had come back to life!


    And when he thought about how his major problem, Jia Shu, had finally been captured, his mood brightened even more!


    Even the three Crisis Countdowns he had triggered last night couldn''t dampen his mood.


    Just as Qiu Tu was being thankful for life, suddenly, "ring ring ring," his Communicator went off.


    Qiu Tu sat up from Tang Feifei''s large bed, picked up the Communicator, and saw that it was Cao Dabiao calling.


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, he heard Cao Dabiao''s voice, now hushed, "Chief! Something big has happened!


    Qiu Tu had a rough idea of what Cao Dabiao was going to say, but he still feigned ignorance and asked, "What happened?"


    Cao Dabiao whispered, "Chief, the Disciplinary Department has come, they''ve sealed off Minister Jia''s office and are examining the files there."


    "It''s said that Minister Jia was arrested last night for some reason and hasn''t come to work until now."


    "Hasn''t come to work?" Qiu Tu pondered with his hand on his chin upon hearing this.


    If he remembered correctly, there should have been a fake "Jia Shu" yesterday, providing an alibi for him. Why was he gone?


    Did he flee because he saw something amiss, or... was there an accident?


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Cao Dabiao spoke up again in a low voice, "Also, Chief. The Disciplinary Department has just come to the investigative team, saying they''d like to have a talk with you this afternoon."


    "From what they imply, it seems to be related to Minister Jia''s case."


    After saying that, he asked anxiously, "Chief, you''re not going to be in trouble, are you?"


    ------


    This chapter was continually being blocked; no matter how I changed the keywords, it didn''t work until I deleted everything before it was released.


    The deleted part is Tang Feifei in the bath... comforting herself, but still feeling Qiu Tu was better. Something like that.


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words each, haha. The next will update around 8 pm.


    ```

 Chapter 216 - 174: Slapping Yan Chens Face! (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe)

    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned.


    He almost didn''t catch what Cao Dabiao was worried about.


    It wasn''t until his mind had taken a few turns that Qiu Tu suddenly remembered that he had actually been flaunting his association with Jia Shu and Yan Chen at the bureau for some time.


    So... in other people''s eyes, the label on him was actually: Die-hard supporter of Jia Shu and Yan Chen.


    Now that Jia Shu had run into trouble suddenly, it was normal for Cao Dabiao to worry about him.


    To tell the truth, in that instant, Qiu Tu felt like laughing: He had been at loggerheads with Jia Shu to the point where their brains were almost spilling out, yet to those ignorant of the truth, he was considered an ally. The world is indeed full of magic.


    With this thought, he casually reassured, "Don''t worry. This won''t affect me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao hesitated for a moment before whispering, "But... Commander, I think there''s something you might need to know."


    As Qiu Tu made a "Hmm?" sound, he got out of bed, slipped on his slippers, walked over to the window, and drew the curtains open.


    The oppressive black clouds from last night had still not dispersed by this morning, thickly coiling together and looming over the entire Xinjie City, as if brewing a massive storm.


    Looking at the somewhat oppressive weather outside the window, Qiu Tu asked, "What is it?"


    Cao Dabiao spoke softly, "I heard that the Bureau Chief called Minister Shi from the Organizational Department over this morning, followed by having him screen all department heads who had considerable achievements or seniority."


    "The aim was to select suitable candidates for the position of Deputy Chief of the Public Security Bureau."


    "Now some department heads who have a chance at competing for this deputy position are making rounds on the Organizational Department''s floor for no other reason than to make it onto this shortlist."


    "This..."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly.


    Although Cao Dabiao spoke very tactfully, he had expressed the intended message:


    A few days ago, after Third Master Qin, Qin Zhengguang, was caught, a position of Deputy Chief of the Public Security Bureau at the Investigation Bureau had become vacant.


    During the meeting discussion, Yan Chen hinted that this position should be temporarily left empty, but then transferred all its authority and business scope to Qiu Tu.


    This was essentially a public statement to everyone that the position was being reserved for Qiu Tu.


    Next, it was just a matter of waiting for Qiu Tu to transition for a period as a department head before being promoted again.


    Through this near overt political statement, everyone at the Investigation Bureau received two pieces of information:


    One, Qiu Tu had completely opened his path to advancement. Despite being at the same Principal Staff level as other heads, he would soon be promoted.


    Two, Qiu Tu was a confidant whom Yan Chen especially valued and planned to cultivate vigorously for a promising future.


    Also as a result of these two points, Qiu Tu''s influence within the Investigation Bureau had begun to skyrocket. Wherever he went, people tried to ingratiate themselves with him.


    But now, in less than a week, Yan Chen''s attitude had taken a 180-degree turn, which was bound to draw everyone''s attention.


    Put bluntly, Yan Chen was signaling to everyone at the Investigation Bureau through this small action that his attitude toward Qiu Tu had changed: He was now very dissatisfied with Qiu Tu!


    However, Qiu Tu had already anticipated Yan Chen''s current attitude: from the moment he planned to take down Jia Shu, he had been prepared to face Yan Chen''s wrath.


    The increasingly self-reliant Qiu Tu had not only left himself with multiple backup plans but also had the support of dozens of loyal followers like Cao Dabiao, as well as the protection of higher-ups like Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai.


    Furthermore, this morning, he had been entered into the Sanctuary''s registry and could no longer be killed at will.


    So he really wasn''t afraid of having a falling out with Yan Chen.


    In fact... he was even thinking about slapping Yan Chen''s face, pressuring him, and testing Yan Chen''s true attitude toward him!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s mind reeled back, and he came to a firm decision in his heart.


    He walked over to the living room of the rest lounge, poured himself a cup of water, and while drinking, he said, "Big Biao, gather everyone from the investigation team later. I have some good news to announce to you all."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao curiously inquired, "What good news?"


    Qiu Tu lightly smiled, "The promotions I applied for you have been approved. All of your positions can be promoted by one level!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was clearly stunned on the other end of the phone.


    It took him a full two seconds to respond with disbelief, "Commander, what did you say? We''ve all been promoted in our positions?"


    Qiu Tu, "Yes."


    Cao Dabiao swallowed, then asked tentatively, "Commander... does that, include me, too?"


    Qiu Tu, looking at the ominous clouds outside the window, responded with a light-hearted laugh, "Why? Don''t you count as a member of the investigation team, as my subordinate?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly expressed his loyalty with utmost seriousness, "How could that be possible! I, Cao Dabiao, am the most loyal subordinate of the Commander!"


    After speaking, his voice lowered again, as he chuckled awkwardly, "I just find it a bit hard to believe."


    No wonder Cao Dabiao found it hard to believe, when even Qiu Tu had been a bit incredulous receiving the approval yesterday.


    After all, although there''s only one rank between a First Level Detective and a Deputy Staff, a First Level Detective, no matter how senior, is still a detective, not part of the management, nor a real commander.


    While being a Deputy Staff might be the lowest in the management hierarchy, in terms of power, status, influence, potential for advancement, as well as benefits, it was worlds apart from a First Level Detective.


    This was a gap that was very hard to cross. It could be said that most detectives, if they didn''t make mistakes and endured their tenure, could eventually become First Level Detectives. But... most First Level Detectives might never become Deputy Staff in their lifetime. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having gone through this process himself, Qiu Tu understood Cao Dabiao''s excitement at this moment.


    So he reaffirmed calmly, "There''s no need not to believe. All the procedures are completed. I''ve even collected your new IDs and epaulets."


    "Once I start work, I''ll be able to distribute them to you."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao''s voice was already excited, starting to tremble as he said hastily, "Then, then I''ll call everyone to the office now, waiting for the chief to return!"


    [Cao Dabiao''s Loyalty +16, current Loyalty 96]


    Seeing the prompt that suddenly appeared before him, Qiu Tu smiled and hung up the phone.


    A Deputy Staff promoted to go with the flow in exchange for a Confidant with a Loyalty as high as 96¡ªworth it!


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu stood up and went to the bathroom to freshen up.


    As he freshened up, he pondered about promoting these Confidants.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu had been preparing for the upcoming major battle with Jia Shu, and since all his Confidants had been in the interrogation rooms, he hadn''t announced the good news to them.


    As it turned out, saving it for today actually came in handy¡ªan unexpected surprise indeed.


    Given the concerns raised by Cao Dabiao''s proactive call, it was clear his original two big backers¡ªJia Shu and Yan Chen¡ªone had been arrested and the other was dissatisfied with him, obviously making all his Confidants restless.


    At such a time, what he needed to do was not to test human nature: human nature is the last thing you want to test!


    What he needed to do was to quell everyone''s anxiety with a massive promotion celebration for dozens of people, boosting a huge wave of morale, and making all his Confidants and Subordinates believe that by following him, they would surely head towards victory!


    Only by joining all the forces that could be united in a crisis, could one better get through the crisis!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt even more determined in his heart.


    After freshening up and getting dressed, Qiu Tu turned around and left Tang Feifei''s resting room, then left her office through the secure passage he knew well.


    Tang Feifei seemed a bit busy today and wasn''t in her office, so Qiu Tu didn''t run into her.


    Qiu Tu guessed that she might be joining the Disciplinary Department in investigating Jia Shu''s case.


    He believed that when he talked to the Disciplinary Department in the afternoon, he should run into her.


    Exiting the secure corridor, Qiu Tu took a detour and re-entered the Investigation Bureau through the main entrance of the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Possibly because the news of Yan Chen''s cold attitude toward Qiu Tu had spread throughout the Bureau, the rest of the way, Qiu Tu was met with unusual glances from Detectives and Chiefs of various departments.


    The Detectives, who were once so enthusiastic to see him, now all deliberately circumvented Qiu Tu.


    The warmth and coldness of human relations were readily apparent.


    But Qiu Tu, confident in his position, didn''t panic at all. He ignored everyone''s strange looks, entered the elevator with his head held high, and made his way to the office of the [8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] investigation team.


    By then, his Subordinates were already waiting there.


    Possibly having received the news from Cao Dabiao, they all looked at Qiu Tu with a bit of fervor when they saw him coming.


    Qiu Tu smiled and glanced at them, without any delay. He walked directly to his desk, sat down, took out the key, and unlocked the drawer.


    The drawer contained all the new IDs, epaulets, and promotion documents for members of the investigation team, which he had collected from the Organizational Department the day before.


    Taking out all the IDs, epaulets, and documents, Qiu Tu began to call out names one by one.


    "Cao Dabiao!"


    "Present!"


    "Liu Fuping!"


    "Here~"


    "Chen Feng!"


    "Present!"


    With each name called out, each named individual stepped forward in turn, receiving their promotion document, new ID, and new epaulets from Qiu Tu''s hand!


    Upon seeing that everyone''s positions had indeed been promoted by one level, the delight was almost uncontrollable in the eyes of all his Confidants.


    The worries of the morning about Jia Shu''s arrest and Yan Chen''s cold shoulder towards Qiu Tu had all vanished!


    Interests are always the easiest way to unite people''s hearts!


    And this was followed by a flood of Loyalty notifications!


    [Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan... Loyalty +9]


    After completing the promotions for everyone, Qiu Tu didn''t let the matter end there.


    He had his Confidants bring over the records from yesterday''s interrogation of the Suit Man and Wang Xi, and then he sent them all out.


    Since he was already prepared to challenge Yan Chen and test her reactions, Qiu Tu did not mind scaling up the play.


    Having been promoted, it''s time to show off the success, let everyone in the Bureau bask in a bit of joy, right?


    ------


    Three chapters, 10,000 words haha. Continuing with ten-thousand words tonight!

 Chapter 217 - 175: The Truth About Suit Man (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)

    So, quite quickly, some rather peculiar scenes began to emerge on the 1st, 2nd, and 9th floors of the Investigation Bureau Office Building...


    For example, on the 1st floor, Eagle and Ah-Kun walked arm in arm to the Special Service Department''s training ground. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once they reached the training ground, the two didn''t speak and just kept circling around Brother Ted and Fang Ming''s squad.


    It wasn''t until Fang Ming was utterly confused and Brother Ted was about to punch someone with his sandbag-sized fists that Ah-Kun, with a big smile, gave a hint, "Captain Fang, Brother Ted, free to come to our promotion party tonight?"


    Hearing Ah-Kun''s words, Brother Ted, Fang Ming, and the members of their Special Task Squad suddenly noticed that the single golden star on the epaulettes of Eagle and Ah-Kun had turned into two!


    Fang Ming was still okay, but Brother Ted''s eyes really widened as he asked in disbelief, "How did you guys get promoted?"


    Hearing Brother Ted''s question, the somewhat reserved Eagle was alright, just smiling slightly, while Ah-Kun got a bit cocky, "How else could we be promoted? Of course, Brother Tu applied for us!"


    "See, that''s why you have to stick with Brother Tu for a future!"


    Brother Ted didn''t say anything upon hearing this, but his gaze kept darting towards Fang Ming.


    He glanced once, glanced again, and then another glance...


    Until he had Fang Ming thoroughly perplexed, he finally stopped.


    However, by this time, their conversation had already caught the attention of the other members of the Special Service Department. It wasn''t long before the news of the collective promotions under Qiu Tu spread throughout the entire Special Service Department, becoming its latest gossip...


    And like Eagle and Ah-Kun, others such as Cao Dabiao, Song Qing, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and Li Xian went to either the 2nd floor''s Public Security Bureau or the 9th floor''s Political Department.


    Their objective was quite straightforward: catch a colleague and start bragging.


    Honest folk like Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian were alright, just chatting with colleagues and patiently waiting for them to notice the change on their epaulettes. Hmm... If they didn''t notice, they wouldn''t let them go...


    For social butterflies like the young lady Song Qing, they were much more direct.


    She bounced around the offices of the Interrogation Section, grabbing anyone she saw and pointing at her own epaulettes to ask, "What is this?"


    "Two golden stars! Ever seen them before?"


    However, the most ruthless had to be Cao Dabiao. Unlike Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian''s steadiness or Song Qing''s exuberance, he was... incredibly smug.


    After leaving the investigation team, he went straight to the Action Division and, with hands behind his back, put on the air of a senior officer, inspecting everyone he recognized.


    Only after they looked at him with bewilderment would he gaze back gravely, imitating the tone of Qiu Tu when speaking or asking questions, and casually ask, "How did you know I''ve been promoted to Deputy Staff Head?"


    His questioned colleagues were truly puzzled: ??


    But after all, it was a happy occasion, and with Cao Dabiao promoted to Deputy Staff Head, they really did need to suck up to him, so they could only offer one flattering comment after another against their will.


    And at such moments, Cao Dabiao would just smile, nod slightly, with the unfazed composure of an officer.


    However, perhaps because his eyes always betrayed his pride, it did give off a bit of an upstart vibe...


    ...


    In this way, through a wave of bragging by Qiu Tu''s confidants, it didn''t take long for pretty much the entire Investigation Bureau to be aware of the news of the mass promotions within Qiu Tu''s team.


    This news truly made most of the investigators envious.


    After all, aside from basic needs, isn''t one''s life goal to get promoted and receive a raise, reaching the peak of life?


    Working under Qiu Tu, one would not only be protected in times of trouble but also be promoted immediately after making an accomplishment.


    This was indeed better than what 99% of supervisors offered.


    While many still found it incomprehensible why Yan Chen had blocked Qiu Tu''s promotional path one moment and then promoted all his subordinates the next,


    They couldn''t deny the fact: following Qiu Tu really did lead to promotions and raises!


    Thus, in an instant, Qiu Tu''s influence, which had just been suppressed by Yan Chen, bounced back vigorously, even more exaggeratedly than before...


    At this time, apart from the average investigators, the section heads and division chiefs of the Investigation Bureau were also a bit puzzled.


    Although they knew more secrets and information than the average investigators, it didn''t help them better analyze the situation.


    On the contrary, it made them even less able to understand Qiu Tu''s maneuvers than the average investigators.


    After finding out from the Organizational Department that the list of promotions had been decided yesterday, they knew that this sizable wave of promotions wasn''t orchestrated by Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen was still very cold towards Qiu Tu.


    So it became odder. According to normal logic, after having upset the Bureau Chief Yan Chen, Qiu Tu should have tried to ingratiate himself with Yan Chen to regain his favor.


    So why... was he now challenging Yan Chen to a contest?


    A section head against the Bureau Chief? Was it he who was crazy, or had the world gone mad?


    This strange turn of events left most of the section heads and division chiefs confused.


    And with recent events piling up, even the Diciplinary Department had come, so for a while, they all shrank back, hiding and watching cautiously...


    So, with just a couple of simple tricks, Qiu Tu had stabilized the morale that was on the verge of dispersal and salvaged his influence within the Investigation Bureau that was about to collapse...


    After striking back at Yan Chen, Qiu Tu didn''t continue to confine himself to this game of politics. His heart returned to focusing on his cases.

 Chapter 218 - 175: The Truth About the Suit Man (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)_2

    In times of chaos, the most important and direct way for a person to win favor from those above is by showing their ability!


    Whether it''s Dai Yukang from the military or Commissioner Jiang from City Hall, didn''t they notice Qiu Tu because of his abilities?


    Therefore, if he wanted to continue scoring points in front of these two bosses, and leave a deep impression on the three dignitaries from the Supervisors brought by Tang Feifei, the best way was to crack the [8.19 Pharmacy robbery case], and try to obtain as many clues related to the Evil God as possible!


    With this in mind, after Qiu Tu had dispatched his subordinates to carry out "publicity work", he began to look into the interrogation records of Wang Xi and Suit Man.


    In both interrogations, Suit Man was uncooperative, no matter what Cao Dabiao asked, he just smiled and said nothing.


    Cao Dabiao used various methods, but apart from getting a piece of information that "God will definitely come and will definitely punish mankind", he got almost nothing.


    By contrast, Wang Xi was much more honest.


    Perhaps he had witnessed Qiu Tu''s methods, or perhaps Liu Fuping''s interrogation skills were truly superior.


    Anyway, he pretty much laid everything he knew out on the table, without holding back.


    According to him, he had encountered the Masked Man in Suit half a year ago.


    At that time, Xinjie City had been established for seven months, and the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was conducting its second recruitment drive.


    Coincidentally, he had fled from the Disaster Zone to Xinjie City.


    With knowledge of potions and alchemy skills, plus offering a small yellow fish as a bribe to the selecting officer, he was successfully recruited into the Investigation Bureau and assigned to the Interrogation Section of the Political Department as a Pharmacist.


    Once he secured a position with an imperial stipend, Wang Xi indulged in pride. Apart from work, he spent his time in Xinjie City eating, drinking, and living it up.


    Then... one day, he met an extraordinarily beautiful woman in a bar.


    That woman was indeed beautiful and charming. He fell in love with her at first sight and started to pursue her.


    At first, she didn''t take much interest in him, dismissing him indifferently. It was not until she found out that he was a Pharmacist, and an operative of the Investigation Bureau Political Department, that she finally smiled at him.


    Therefore, under the assault of his sweet talk and money, two days later, he finally won the beauty over.


    What he didn''t expect was that this marked the beginning of his nightmare...


    The next morning when he got up, he found a man with dyed red hair and a clown mask sitting by his bed.


    Wang Xi was initially startled, almost thinking that he had slept with someone''s wife and the aggrieved husband had come after him home.


    Later he learned... he had actually slept with him.


    Yes... the beautiful woman that Wang Xi had so desperately pursued in the bar that night was actually an avatar of Suit Man.


    While recalling this memory, Wang Xi''s expression was very tranquil, as if he didn''t mind the relationship he had with Suit Man.


    This did not match the normal attitude straight men have towards same-sex relationships, so Liu Fuping asked out of curiosity.


    And, surprisingly, her inquiry revealed important intelligence.


    Wang Xi explained that he didn''t mind having had relations with Suit Man because the woman was actually a Puppet controlled by Suit Man''s Cataclysmic ability.


    Suit Man''s Cataclysmic ability is likely of the [Mystery] pathway, related to [Devour] and [Puppet] abilities.


    Therefore, to create avatars, Suit Man couldn''t split into another body directly as Wang Xi''s [Mitosis] Cataclysmic ability could.


    Instead... he must select a target, devour their soul, reconstitute it, and then spit out a soul in complete control!


    This soul would then reconnect with the original body, start to form a connection with Suit Man, becoming an entity both controlled by Suit Man and yet possessing some independent thought...


    So... although he indeed slept with Suit Man''s avatar, it can also be said that he was with the original beautiful woman.


    Even though the one manipulating the woman''s body, engaging with him in a night of passion, might have been Suit Man, the body was still that of the real woman.


    So he was still a straight man!


    Wang Xi''s declaration stunned the interrogators, Liu Fuping and Song Qing, for a few seconds, almost forgetting to continue the interrogation....


    Compared to the explosive beginning, the following story was much simpler.


    Just like in countless stories written before¡ªwhen someone with supernatural power, who claims they can also bestow such power on you, appears before an ordinary person, most ordinary people are unable to resist such temptation.


    Thus, Wang Xi gradually began to fall into Suit Man''s trap.


    Suit Man first had Wang Xi help craft some ordinary potions; then he had him concoct some Cataclysmic Potions with miraculous abilities; next, they used these Cataclysmic Potions for theft, robbery...


    Once Wang Xi was deeply ensnared, Suit Man began to extract information about the Political Department from him; then he had Wang Xi spy on Political Department''s secrets, and finally, started making Wang Xi worship the Evil God...


    With this "boiling frog" strategy, Wang Xi was slowly ensnared. By the time he finally realized something was wrong, it was too late for him to turn back...


    So, when Suit Man told him to pull off one last heist, claiming they would quit for good after this final job, he had no choice but to follow Suit Man down a path of no return...


    As a result, the two of them created the [8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] that shocked the entire Xinjie City, as well as the subsequent Evil God incident!


    After reading all the interrogation records of Suit Man and Wang Xi, Qiu Tu wore an expression of sudden understanding, feeling he had gained a lot.


    For example, he finally learned Suit Man''s secret: why he could produce so many different looking, gender-varying avatars, each one strong.


    Looking at it now, it should be the unique effect of his Cataclysmic ability.


    ''Devouring other people''s souls and making a different kind of Puppet, huh?''


    ''That is indeed powerful...''


    ''Six Second-Order Cataclysmics...''


    Thinking of the scene where Suit Man''s original body and five avatars all appeared together! Suddenly, Qiu Tu felt his own Cataclysmic ability wasn''t so strong anymore...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu glanced again at the name Suit Man was referred to in Wang Xi''s interrogation record...


    ''Jia Wei?''


    Qiu Tu murmured the name, his gaze slightly darkened...


    ''So... Suit Man is actually Jia Shu''s brother, the murderer?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the information about Jia Wei he had seen in Jia Shu''s files.


    According to the records, Jia Shu''s brother Jia Wei had also been a student at the Sanctuary''s Military Officers'' Academy. His prospects were as immeasurable as Jia Shu''s.


    But during an off-campus practice, he brutally murdered several civil servants in the Planning Area.


    Although these civil servants were not high-ranking and hadn''t made it into the Sanctuary''s records, Jia Wei was not any bigshot himself, just an ordinary student. Murder was a crime that demanded retribution.


    Thus, in his first trial, he was sentenced to death by Commissioner Yan Chen, the presiding judge.


    Later, it might have been that Jia Shu pulled some strings, or perhaps bribed Yan Chen. The death sentence was changed to exile during the second trial.


    And so, he was expelled from the Eighth Sanctuary...


    The case didn''t have many details recorded in the files, but it still gave one an inkling that something was amiss.


    But, Qiu Tu''s attention wasn''t focused on the saga of love and hate between the brothers Jia Shu, Jia Wei, and Yan Chen over the past decade or so.


    What he was interested in was... the current relationship between Jia Shu and Jia Wei.


    According to the hints from Crisis Intuition, though the two seemingly belonged to different factions, antagonism appeared to outweigh cooperation between them.


    So why would Jia Shu join Jia Wei in attacking him? S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And why was Jia Shu so interested in him?


    ------


    Extra update today, an update of 11,000 to 12,000 words! Still 3 chapters. Tonight, 2 chapters of 8k words. Another chapter of 3-4k words will be posted around 20:00.


    Before I knew it, it''s already dawn... off to sleep. Please vote for Monthly Tickets, subscribe!

 Chapter 219 - 176: The Truth Behind the Attack Incident (Subscribe for 11,000 Words!)

    While contemplating this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look over the interrogation records of Wang Xi and Jia Wei once more.


    Unfortunately, there was nothing in it that related to Jia Shu.


    Tossing the record onto the desk, Qiu Tu clasped his hands behind his head, leaned back in his chair, and pondered in silence where else he could find clues¡­


    As he thought, a sudden realization lit up Qiu Tu''s eyes!


    He remembered that he had once placed a [Silver Key Bee] on the Suit Man Jia Wei.


    After recording 36 hours of Jia Wei''s movements, the Silver Key Bee returned to him early yesterday morning and flew back to the beehive.


    Perhaps because he had been asleep, Qiu Tu had not noticed its return, so he had pushed the matter to the back of his mind.


    Now, wasn''t it the perfect time to take a look?


    Maybe within those 36 hours, he could find some clues?!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu quickly pulled the thumb-sized [Silver Key Beehive] from his pocket.


    Indeed, inside the beehive, four snow-white, slender Silver Key Bees lay quietly alongside one... a bloated, its body having turned black and lifeless bee.


    Qiu Tu picked up the blackened Silver Key Bee and, with practiced ease, crushed it.


    The next second, a scene flashed through Qiu Tu''s mind like a movie reel, displaying the entire 36-hour record of the Suit Man Jia Wei after he left Qiu Tu.


    Having used the Silver Key Bee before, Qiu Tu skillfully sped up the footage, hunting for information-rich clues.


    Soon, he paused on a scene of Jia Wei conducting a perculiar ritual late at night in a villa.


    In the scene, Jia Wei held an ancient, worn coin.


    He rubbed the face of the coin three times with his thumb, then the back four times before respectfully placing it on a table.


    The next second, the coin slowly evaporated into mist, floated up into the air, and formed into a human head...


    The head looked to be that of a teenager, with an oval face, almond eyes, and strikingly beautiful features¡ªit was none other than the Evil God Girl Larilo whom Qiu Tu had seen in his dreams¡­


    At that moment, seeing that Jia Wei had established remote communication with Larilo, he quickly knelt down and, with utter devotion on his face and a respectful tone, said, "My God, I''ve met with Qiu Tu as you commanded."


    "Don''t say that. His dissolute demeanor really does have the potential to become one of us," Larilo chuckled at Jia Wei''s words, her voice soft and seductive like a songstress''s murmur, "You''ve marked him with my seal?"


    Jia Wei replied reverently, "Yes, I have."


    "And... I''ve also left him the most successful Madame Kong from your collection of works."


    "I believe that once he experiences it himself, he''ll understand that only the joy of reproduction is true bliss!"


    After speaking, seeing Larilo nod her head coquettishly, Jia Wei asked cautiously, "But, my God, I still don''t quite understand why you''d assign such an important task to a mere division chief like Qiu Tu."


    "With so many of my incarnations, I could''ve easily killed my brother. Why bother with all these complications?"


    At Jia Wei''s words, Larilo laughed lightly and condescendingly looked down at him before saying, "Jia Wei, do you really think you''re capable of killing your brother?"


    "Not to mention the number of guards that surround him as a senior member of the Investigation Bureau."


    "Let''s talk about his own strength..."


    She spoke lightheartedly, "You and he are of the same parents, closely related by blood, and your Cataclysmic abilities come from the same source." S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Your ability is Devouring-Splitting, and his is Devouring-Coalescence¡­"


    "Although his ability has far more restrictions than yours, requiring certain conditions to devour, but... after all these years, he has devoured who knows how many Cataclysmics. His strength has advanced by leaps and bounds."


    "If I''m not mistaken, he should be at the Second-order Peak now, only a step away from becoming a Third Order Cataclysmic..."


    "Second-order Peak?!" At that moment, Jia Wei''s pupils noticeably constricted.


    He bowed his head, showing barely suppressed hatred, "I hadn''t realized he''d progressed so quickly!"


    "I''ve underestimated him!"


    When Larilo saw Jia Wei starting to lose control again, she shook her head slightly and sharply reprimanded, "Calm down!"


    Accompanied by her command, Jia Wei, as if a "Restart Key" had been pressed, truly calmed down quickly.


    He glanced at Larilo with an apologetic face, "My God, I lost my composure."


    Larilo laughed "giggly" a few times and said nonchalantly, "Your brother is your weakness. You must overcome this trial to reach a state of peace of mind¡­"


    "It''s not your fault."


    "But precisely because he is your affliction, this time I want you to act as bait to lure your brother out."


    "Lure him out?" Jia Wei did not quite understand.


    Larilo''s eyes narrowed mischievously, "Tonight, use your true body to seek out your brother for a meeting, ask for his help."


    "Say that you''ve been targeted by Qiu Tu and hope that he can settle this matter so that Qiu Tu will stop pursuing you."


    "With his cold-hearted nature, of course, he won''t help you."


    "But that''s not a problem. Then you can use the past incident as leverage. Tell him if he doesn''t help you, then you will reveal the truth about that old case to the public~~"


    "The parents of the victims from that case are still alive and active in the political scene of the Planning Area."

 Chapter 220 - 176: The Truth Behind the Attack Incident (11,000 Words, Subscribe Please)_2

    "He wouldn''t want to provoke that big shot at a time like this. So to smooth things over, he will most likely agree to your demands on the surface,"


    "That''s when you can throw out your real plan. You tell him you don''t want to live in fear every day, you want to nip it in the bud and kill Qiu Tu...."


    At this point, Larilo''s face revealed an evil smile, "Qiu Tu should be key to his advancement to a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "He is the fruit of his labor."


    "But... Qiu Tu has already become Chief, and in two days, he will be entering the Sanctuary''s register."


    "If he can''t Devour Qiu Tu before then, it will be even more difficult in the future~~"


    "Believe me, right now, he wants to kill Qiu Tu more than anyone,"


    "So..... once he realizes you can be a very useful knife, one that can cover his tracks, he will definitely be tempted and agree to your offer of cooperation...."


    "And by then, he will fall completely into Qiu Tu''s trap...."


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Jia Wei''s expression shifted gradually from pain to surprise, and his eyes slowly turned crimson!


    He murmured, "Just like..... the way he used me back then, let him find out again that I am of value?"


    "With the experience from back then, he definitely thinks I''ll still be at his mercy, becoming his scapegoat...."


    "So... his arrogance will lead him into the real trap!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s analysis, Larilo chuckled softly and nodded, "Yes...."


    She said, "That way, we can eliminate him, clear your demons, and also kick away a stumbling block."


    "These last two months, he has been investigating us quite a bit."


    "Just a while ago, particularly after he discovered the connection between the Qin family, Vice Chairman Tian, and me, he deliberately... used his own abnormalities as bait, to get Yan Chen and Qiu Tu''s attention, leading them to dig deeper into this case!"


    "So, by getting rid of him, our plan can proceed more smoothly!"


    On hearing this, Jia Wei also showed an empathetic expression of anger.


    However, after a few seconds, that expression vanished from his face. He asked tentatively, "But.... my god. Can Qiu Tu really take on my brother?"


    "He''s just a minor First-Order Catastropher, just a Chief...."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Larilo started laughing with a ''giggle giggle giggle''. A seductive smile appeared on her face, "If you really think he''s just a First-Order Catastropher or an ordinary Chief." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Then you''re making it too easy to fall headlong...."


    "That man, he''s not simple, you have no idea what he''s done in the shadows...."


    "Jia Shu might not really stand a chance if he underestimates him even a little...."


    Saying this, Larilo paused for a moment before continuing,


    "Moreover, it''s not just your brother who is messing with my plans, but him as well. Now let them fight like dogs, it doesn''t matter who dies, I''ll be happy...."


    "At worst, I''ll just take away the other one afterward...."


    "Giggle giggle giggle...."


    After watching the remote conversation between Jia Wei and Larilo, Qiu Tu fast-forwarded to check for other important information.


    However, soon the entire record was finished, and there was no other information worth noting.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu canceled the mental image and began to reflect on the intelligence he had obtained from the Silver Key Bee.


    This intelligence was critical, potentially unraveling most of the mysteries in his heart.


    For example, since Larilo and Jia Wei clearly knew him, why did they let Jia Wei meet with him that day, deliberately falling for his trap?


    Clearly, it was a strategy of Larilo''s, she deliberately wanted to "meet" him in this way, feeding him some false information along with real intelligence, to achieve their plan of ''drive the wolf to devour the tiger''.


    For example, why Jia Shu had always been weird towards him, giving him strange looks.


    Turns out... he was "food" selected by Jia Shu?


    Once he met certain criteria, he would become the "nourishment" for Jia Shu''s advancement. At that time, just by Devouring him, Jia Shu''s strength would become much stronger!


    That''s why Jia Shu had been purposefully nurturing him and tolerating many of his inappropriate behaviors.


    And perhaps because once a target is chosen, they cannot be changed, or it is very difficult to find a target like themselves.


    Furthermore... as soon as Jia Shu "devours" himself, he can be promoted to a Third Order Cataclysmic...


    That''s why he wanted to devour himself before his name could be entered into the Sanctuary registry!


    For instance... Larilo''s mole within the Investigation Bureau, indeed, is not Jia Shu.


    From her dialogue with Jia Wei, it''s clear that she truly understands herself, Jia Shu, and the entire Investigation Bureau.


    But at the same time, this conversation revealed that her relationship with Jia Shu is far from harmonious; they are enemies of each other.


    Therefore... she must have another source or channel of information. And this person must be lurking within the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    To be honest, compared to the destructive powers arising from the moles humans planted among themselves, the "traitors" wooed by the Evil God from among the higher-ups are evidently much more terrifying.


    Because... no one knows how much their information and their stances could aid the Evil God.


    And whether these aids might allow the Evil God to invade the real world more easily...


    Or take, for example... that ancient coin.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but pull out an identical coin from his pocket.


    This coin was searched out from the Catastrophic assassin: Lone Wolf.


    At that time, Old Master Qin explained that the coin was a gift from a deity to Lone Wolf, but as for what it was or how to use it, he wasn''t sure.


    Looking at it now... this coin should be a special communication device that can realize supernatural communication over vast distances.


    And staring at that coin, Qiu Tu thought about even more.


    Now that he knew the function of the coin and how to use it, could he also contact Larilo anytime he wanted?


    Qiu Tu certainly hadn''t forgotten about his "Appreciation of the Evil God" [Crisis Countdown].


    It''s always much better to proactively solve some things than to solve them passively...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu played with the coin while pondering how to communicate with Larilo...


    Just like that, a morning''s time quickly passed.


    At noon, Qiu Tu went to the Sky Garden on the ninth floor for lunch.


    Perhaps because of the collective promotion of his subordinates, along the way, Qiu Tu once again received numerous friendly greetings and calls, as if everything had returned to the way it was before.


    Of course, the chiefs and directors of the bureau still shunned him...


    After lunch, Qiu Tu returned to the investigative team, resting while patiently waiting for the arrival of the Disciplinary Department.


    At 2 PM, Tang Feifei finally made the call, "Chief Qiu, do you have time? A few of the officials from the Disciplinary Department would like to meet with you in person."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the already somewhat bored Qiu Tu sat up and replied with a smile, "Of course, I have time. May I ask where should I go now?"


    Tang Feifei paused for a moment before answering coolly, "Come to the ninth floor, to my office."


    "I have a meeting room here to ensure absolute privacy and safety."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback, remembering the wild night the two had in that meeting room...


    It was indeed very private and very safe...


    Although his thoughts had strayed, on the surface, Qiu Tu responded earnestly, "All right, I''ll come up now."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu was about to hang up the phone.


    However, just then, after a moment''s hesitation, Tang Feifei added softly, "Oh, one more thing, you might want to be mentally prepared..."


    "Jia Shu has professional training and years of experience in the Political Department."


    "He''s not saying anything now. The case is a bit tough to handle..."


    ------


    There will be an extra update today: an update of 11,000 to 12,000 words, still 3 chapters. Tonight, 2 chapters of 8,000 words. There will also be a chapter of 3-4,000 words, which will be published around 20:00.


    Unnoticeably, it''s already dawn... Off to sleep. Asking for Monthly Tickets, asking for subscriptions!

 Chapter 222 - 178 Qiu Tu: Jia Shu Is Wronged (10,000 Words Subscription Request!)

    Obviously, in the minds of these section chiefs and division chiefs, Qiu Tu should be Yan Chen''s trusted confidant.


    Even if Yan Chen was angered, there were still measures and possibilities for remediation. There was absolutely no need to openly break with Yan Chen.


    It should be known that as a former teacher from the Sanctuary Military Academy, Yan Chen had considerable influence in Xinjie City, let alone the entire Planning Area.


    The Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was entirely under Yan Chen''s control. Although Tang Feifei also had her own backing, she was, after all, only a deputy, without proper authority or rhetoric, and simply unable to stand against Yan Chen.


    For Qiu Tu to so clearly switch sides was simply unwise...


    If Qiu Tu were here at this moment, he would certainly scoff at their thoughts.


    They indeed understood the situation... but they did not understand Yan Chen...


    If Yan Chen were someone who, after being betrayed, could forgive just by receiving an apology, then he and Jia Shu would not have reached the point they were at today...


    Therefore, the worst thing to do after showing so many signs of doubt was to compromise...


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu also knocked on Tang Feifei''s office door.


    "Knock, knock, knock..."


    After a moment, the door to Tang Feifei''s office was opened from the inside. Su Xiaowan, Tang Feifei''s assistant and Qin Shuman''s spy, poked her head out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, her eyes lit up, and then she smiled and said, "Chief Qiu, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    With that said, she opened the door wider and gestured to Qiu Tu with her hand.


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then walked into the office.


    Inside the office, Tang Feifei was sitting behind her desk, reviewing documents.


    Qiu Tu saluted, "Good day, Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, Tang Feifei looked up, and her icy expression thawed into a pool of spring warmth.


    She pointed to the chair in front of the desk and motioned, "Sit."


    It was the first time Qiu Tu had encountered Tang Feifei in her professional setting, so he nodded, walked over, and sat down.


    Su Xiaowan seemed to have made some progress compared to last time. Seeing Qiu Tu sit down, she quickly scurried off to make a cup of tea and brought it to him.


    A couple of days ago, Qiu Tu had inquired with Song Qing; this young lady and Song Qing were classmates from the same school.


    Their family situations were similar, with both sets of parents being business people who had some wealth, so both girls had been quite spoiled since childhood. This upbringing gave them both a somewhat na?ve and lively character.


    But in these chaotic times, it was already extraordinary for parents to ensure temporary safety; for them to remain so na?ve and happy for a lifetime would be exceedingly difficult.


    Without going too far, just consider Song Qing and Su Xiaowan. Both had become embroiled in the struggle between the Evil God and humanity, as well as the conflict between the Security Department and the Investigation Bureau.


    In such major events, a single misstep could result in complete destruction.


    Thinking, ''This is truly pitiable...'' Qiu Tu picked up the teacup and took a sip.


    After a while, Tang Feifei finished reviewing the document. She raised her head, her spirited eyes turned to Su Xiaowan, "Xiaowan, take this document to the Training Department."


    As she spoke, she handed the document in her hand to Su Xiaowan.


    Seeing this, Su Xiaowan hurriedly took it with an adorable gesture and then scurried off to deliver the document....


    After sending off Su Xiaowan, the carefree girl, Tang Feifei leaned back in her chair with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile and teased Qiu Tu, "What''s the matter? Feeling a bit sentimental?"


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to be so perceptive, but this wasn''t something he needed to hide.


    So, he spoke frankly, "Director Tang is joking. I just feel that her personality isn''t suited for these chaotic times where people prey on each other...."


    "If she lived in peacetime, perhaps she could happily go to school with peers her age, have a love affair that would mark her deeply, get into college, find an ordinary job."


    "With her personality, she''d surely be very popular with the boys. So, she would likely marry, have children, and then live out a simple yet happy life....."


    "But unfortunately, she lives in chaotic times..... Such a personality is only going to harm her."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s genuinely regretful words, Tang Feifei smiled. She stood up, walked toward Qiu Tu, and as she did, she said, "Instead of worrying about her, you might want to think about your own upcoming situation."


    She continued, "Now, as per your request, I''ve had the Disciplinary Department arrest Jia Shu."


    "But Jia Shu is not cooperative at all. Clearly, he still harbors some delusions."


    "And those men in suits and masks seem to have lost their minds too, alive but like puppets, showing no reaction whatsoever."


    "Now, not only have we reached a deadlock in the case, even Yan Chen has started to press both you and me."


    Tang Feifei walked up to Qiu Tu, leaned her hands on his chair, her body leaning forward, her face close to Qiu Tu''s as she inquired, "So.... what are you planning to do, Mr. Strategist?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, a confident look spread across Qiu Tu''s face. He smiled and asked, "What does the Disciplinary Department think?"


    Tang Feifei raised an eyebrow, not answering directly, but instead offered a metaphor, "The Disciplinary Department, how should I put it...."


    "They''re like the lovers who are both indifferent and passionate."


    "The various powers battle it out, your turn follows mine, like the actors on a stage."


    "They just watch the excitement, not entering the fray."


    "So, if there''s evidence, they make the arrest. If not, they release. Without any bias."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, "That should also be what the Sanctuary truly requires of them."


    "After all, what the Sanctuary needs now is to unite all possible forces to try and restore Order in the world."


    "Under such circumstances, even if there are big flaws or minor issues, they can be dealt with after achieving greater unity."


    "Thus, the Sanctuary won''t grant the Disciplinary Department the power to handle cases or conduct in-depth investigations into certain matters, but rather let them act as a referee. If someone steps out of line, they issue a warning; if there really is evidence, they take action; but if there''s no evidence, then they just ignore it."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei nodded in approval, "What you said is right. This is indeed what the higher-ups in the Sanctuary are thinking."


    As she spoke, she added a change of tone, "So, how are you planning to handle what comes next?"


    If before meeting Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu might have hesitated about his upcoming plan, then after meeting Liu Fuping, having put the last piece of the puzzle in place, Qiu Tu had come to a decision.


    He patted the file bag in his hand and said with a smile, "How else can I handle it? Be realistic and seek truth from facts."


    "I won''t wrong a good person, but I also won''t let any bad person off the hook."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident expression, Tang Feifei''s face revealed a hint of a smile.


    Truthfully, she really loved that confident look on Qiu Tu.


    That spirit shining through his eyes always reminded her of an ancient poem from before the Cataclysm: With the spring breeze lifting his spirits, the horse gallops fast, admiring all the flowers in Chang''an in a single day.


    The youthful vigor and soaring self-confidence always seemed so enchanting...


    While inwardly moved, Tang Feifei straightened up and said, "Alright then, since you are prepared, let''s go meet those Supervisors together."


    Having said this, Tang Feifei, with her long legs, took the lead and headed towards the lounge.


    Qiu Tu put down his cup and followed her.


    When they reached the door of the lounge, Tang Feifei suddenly stopped. She turned around and looked at Qiu Tu teasingly, saying, "Oh right, I''ve been working really hard to help you these past few days. So... what about your promise to me?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Must we talk about such an improper subject in such a serious setting?


    Thinking this, he coughed and said, "Don''t worry. I''ve also been preparing diligently. Moreover, I''ve prepared a lot."


    Tang Feifei smiled and nodded her head as she was about to open the door. Suddenly, she paused and sharply turned to look at Qiu Tu, "When you say you''ve prepared a lot, you''re talking about energy, right?"


    "Not another word?"


    Qiu Tu smiled without saying a word.


    What''s the difference?


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s mischievous smile, Tang Feifei knew that what Qiu Tu had just said was definitely not something proper.


    But it must be said, Qiu Tu truly understood her character well. At times when open defiance could no longer pique Tang Feifei''s interest, this kind of stealthy resistance from Qiu Tu irrationally hit her spot.


    So, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, "Stay with me tonight." S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu, "How about tomorrow?"


    Tang Feifei: ...


    "Fine."


    The clean and crisp rejection reignited Tang Feifei''s hunting desire, a tawny glow beginning to shimmer in her eyes.


    However, it was this push-and-pull that heightened her anticipation for what was to come the next night to its peak!


    ''No rush... easy does it with hot tofu. Full meal after meal... full meal after meal...''


    Following Tang Feifei into the lounge.


    Inside the lounge''s guest room, Qiu Tu met the three Supervisors he had seen last night.


    The three were indeed like what Tang Feifei had described¡ªmere onlookers. Even with a case in hand, they just sat there quietly reading the newspaper without making any effort.


    As soon as they saw Tang Feifei leading Qiu Tu inside, they neatly put down their newspapers and stood up.


    The middle-aged man at the forefront nodded coolly to Tang Feifei, then said, "Director Tang, this must be Chief Qiu?"


    Tang Feifei''s expression turned to an iceberg as she entered the lounge. She nodded her head and introduced, "Correct. This is Qiu Tu, the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division from the Investigation Bureau Political Department."


    After that, she also introduced the middle-aged man to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, this is Tang Jiancha."


    Qiu Tu nodded and reached out his hand, "Hello, Tang Jiancha. I am Qiu Tu."


    Tang Jiancha coldly extended his hand and shook hands with Qiu Tu.


    Releasing the handshake, he continued, "This is the situation, Chief Qiu,"


    "Based on the reports by Director Tang and yourself, we have started an investigation on Minister Jia Shu."


    "However, we only have evidence of him attacking you. We lack evidence of his collusion with the Evil God."


    "After his arrest, he has also continuously refused to cooperate with the investigation. Only when asked why he wanted to kill you did he claim to have a personal grudge."


    "He has been labeling the incident as a coincidence."


    "In other words, he says his attack on you has no strong connection to the assault perpetrated by the Evil God Cultists that day."


    "Moreover, we did not detect any traces of the Evil God''s faith on him."


    "Therefore, we''d like to ask you some questions to understand the entire process of the event and see if there are any additional clues or information."


    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and then said, "Actually, I don''t think it''s necessary. To me, Minister Jia might have been wronged. We should just release him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the atmosphere in the guest room became stagnant.


    Whether it was Tang Feifei or the three Supervisors, expressions froze on their faces.


    Tang Feifei was possibly more familiar with Qiu Tu''s remarkable maneuvers and trusted him, so she didn''t make any move.


    But the three Supervisors, meeting Qiu Tu for the first time, were staring at him blankly, momentarily at a loss for words.


    After a pause, the leading Tang Jiancha managed to force a smile and said, "Chief Qiu is joking, right?"


    "We personally witnessed Minister Jia attacking you."


    "Moreover..." he hesitated, warningly added, "Do you know how serious and vile it is to arbitrarily accuse a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu smiled indifferently and replied, "However serious and vile it might be, shouldn''t it still be less grave and serious than arbitrarily detaining a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau?"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu extended his hand again, then added, "So, Tang Jiancha, we are partners, not an Interrogation Officer and a suspect..."


    -------


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 Chapter 223 - 179: Do You Want to Get Promoted Again? (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the three Supervisors were stunned for a moment before they understood his intention...


    Put simply, Qiu Tu was very dissatisfied with how they had just treated Tang Feifei and himself.


    He was using this behavior to warn the three: now that Jia Shu has been arrested, if he is released without charges, everyone will have to take responsibility.


    So don''t play those patron and actor dramas, everyone is tied to the same string.


    If pushed too far, Qiu Tu would flip the table, leaving everyone with no game to play.


    Realizing this, Tang Jiancha''s eyes clearly showed a hint of surprise and interest.


    He looked deeply at Qiu Tu, then smiling, he looked at Qiu Tu''s extended hand and shook it again, "You are quite interesting, Chief Qiu."


    Feeling Tang Jiancha''s enthusiasm this time, Qiu Tu also smiled modestly, "Not bad, not bad. Just hoping the cooperation to come will be smoother."


    Witnessing the whole process, Tang Feifei''s gaze was shifting, and even the clear yellow at the bottom of her eyes seemed somewhat unstoppable.


    She found such a Qiu Tu very interesting. A few simple sentences had completely changed the attitude of the Supervisors.


    However, she was more curious about what Qiu Tu would do if the Supervisors'' attitudes didn''t change, or even if they agreed to release Jia Shu.


    After all... arresting a high-ranking official from the Investigation Bureau was a serious mistake for the Disciplinary Department, but it wasn''t to an unbearable extent...


    Thinking this, she took the opportunity to smooth things over and asked,


    "Chief Qiu, that''s because Tang Jiancha is magnanimous. If it were another Supervisor seeing your attitude, they might directly agree to your request."


    "What would you do then?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "First, I believe Tang Jiancha won''t be such an irresponsible Supervisor."


    After giving a compliment, Qiu Tu continued with his real reason,


    "Second... actually, what I just said was not out of anger, but the truth. Minister Jia being accused of worshiping an Evil God might really be a wrongful accusation. Of course... he has made many other mistakes."


    "So, release means release, but it''s not a release without charges."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu raised the document bag in his hand and took the initiative to say, "I have already prepared all the relevant materials; we can discuss them in detail now."


    It has to be said, Qiu Tu''s response was indeed perfect. He flattered, eased the atmosphere, explained his backup plan for his earlier response, and even managed to raise the expectations of the Supervisors.


    So, soon, Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, Tang Jiancha, and the other two sat in the reception room, studying the materials Qiu Tu had brought.


    That morning, upon learning that he would meet with the Disciplinary Department, Qiu Tu began to prepare the materials.


    Included were all the clues and evidence he had collected during this time, as well as Wang Xi''s interrogation record, and a detailed description of the subtle relationship between the Jia brothers, Jia Shu and Jia Wei, and the Evil God.


    As Qiu Tu laid out the confessions and clues on the table, one by one explaining them to everyone, they finally understood the full context of the case...


    They discussed it among themselves for a while. In the end, it was Tang Jiancha who summarized first.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, asking, "So... you mean to say, Jia Shu is actually not an Evil God Cultist, but his own brother, Jia Wei, is?"


    "And in the past two months, after discovering the dealings between the Evil God and Jia Wei, he has been trying to stop them?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu nod, Tang Jiancha continued, "However, his Cataclysm Path might be very special. He must kill someone and Devour them to improve."


    "So over the years, he has secretly killed many people. And his next target was you?"


    Qiu Tu nodded again with a smile, then followed up, "And just so happens, I have been investigating the Evil God Cultist cases recently. The Evil God wants to get rid of me."


    "So his brother became the bridge between him and the Evil God. They reached a cooperation to attack and kill me together."


    After Qiu Tu finished speaking, Tang Feifei, with a somber gaze, summarized, "So, although he has not betrayed humanity, has not betrayed the Sanctuary..." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But..."


    "1. Did he briefly collude with the Evil God?"


    "2. Has he harmed his colleagues?"


    Qiu Tu added another point, "And 3. He clearly discovered an Evil God Cultist, but not only did he let the cultist go, he also hid it and didn''t report it."


    "So, he violated the professional ethics and principles of his position as the Head of the Political Department."


    As Qiu Tu filled in all the details, the atmosphere in the reception room became a bit awkward for a time.


    The Supervisors looked at each other, and Tang Feifei also glanced at Qiu Tu from time to time, and then at...


    Obviously... they were all somewhat puzzled by Qiu Tu''s thoughts...


    According to normal logic, with the extent to which Qiu Tu and Jia Shu have fought, it really has come down to a life-and-death struggle.


    Let alone Qiu Tu helping Jia Shu reduce his culpability, it would be considered kind of him not to fabricate slander and evidence, and to furiously besmirch Jia Shu.


    And yet... Qiu Tu was actually earnestly trying the case?


    For a while, Qiu Tu baffled them all.


    Therefore, the reception room fell silent for a while, and after glancing at the three Supervisors, Tang Feifei reminded, "Qiu Tu, if the truth of the matter really is as such."


    "Then although Jia Shu may be removed from the position of Head of the Political Department... he will not be subjected to much punishment."


    "After all, he has not betrayed humanity or the Sanctuary. Even if he attempted to assassinate you... he did not succeed."


    "Moreover, since you were not registered in the Sanctuary''s census last night, the people he killed in the past few years are already beyond verification."


    "So, once the commotion over this incident settles down, it''s very likely that he will be reinstated. His rank might not even be significantly demoted."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pretended to think for a moment, then deliberately asked, "Would it be possible to expel him from Xinjie City and never allow him back in?"


    Upon saying that, Qiu Tu added, "He''s been keeping an eye on me, and I''m somewhat worried."


    Tang Jiancha thought briefly and replied, "Of course, there''s no problem with that."


    "After all, it''s a reasonable request."


    After finishing, he seemed still somewhat incredulous that Qiu Tu would let Jia Shu off so lightly, so he confirmed again, "Are you sure you have no other demands, or... that you don''t have any other evidence against Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu smiled while shaking his head, trying to appear as sincere as possible.


    He said, "I''m just being factual. If Minister Jia has not turned to the Evil God, he hasn''t. I won''t fabricate evidence."


    Seeing how earnest Qiu Tu was, to be honest, the three members of the Disciplinary Department felt a touch of respect for him.


    As members of such a particular department, they had seen too many vile acts. However... that didn''t mean they lacked the notions of ''justice'' and ''fairness'' in their hearts.


    It''s just that, given the chaotic times, they had grown numb to many issues...


    Now, they suddenly encountered a youth like Qiu Tu, who also harbored ''justice'' and ''fairness'' in his heart. They couldn''t help but feel favorably toward him...


    Moreover, possibly contemplating the grievances Qiu Tu endured in this case, Tang Jiancha fell into deep thought, then slowly asked, "Chief Qiu, would you like to become a real Bureau Chief?"


    What he meant by "Bureau Chief" was clearly a position at the Division Chief level, not the current Principal Section Level position that Qiu Tu held.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up upon hearing this. However, instead of expressing his thoughts directly, he jokingly asked, "Can I become a Division Chief just by taking down our Minister? Is there such a great deal?"


    "If I take down Director Tang, could I even become a Bureau Chief?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s joke, Tang Feifei couldn''t hold back and gave Qiu Tu a punch while laughing.


    Qiu Tu winced in pain and chuckled while rubbing his arm.


    Tang Jiancha and the others laughed at the scene.


    After the laughter, they spoke seriously, "Becoming a Bureau Chief is definitely a joke. But a Division Chief or Deputy Division Chief, that we believe is possible."


    Speaking, the three exchanged glances, and then Tang Jiancha continued, "The Political Department''s main scope of work is intelligence, espionage, counter-espionage, and internal supervision."


    "We cannot interfere in other areas of work, nor is it right for us to ask. But... internal supervision is within the scope of work delegated to the Political Department by the Disciplinary Department."


    "With Jia Shu being dismissed, regardless of which of the two remaining Deputy Ministers is promoted, a Deputy Minister position will be left vacant."


    "If we strongly recommend you, you should be able to fill that position as the head of the supervision branch."


    "What do you think about it?"


    What did Qiu Tu think? He had no objections at all!


    Wasn''t this like a pie falling from the sky?!


    He originally thought that after offending Yan Chen, the position of Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau was out of reach. His Cataclysmic ability would take a long time to improve.


    Who could have anticipated a reversal of fortune when all seemed lost? Losing the position of Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau, there was a chance to obtain the position of Deputy Minister in the Political Department?!


    Wasn''t the Political Department much more desirable than the Public Security Bureau?!


    However, even though he was thrilled inside, Qiu Tu knew better than to celebrate too soon.


    Thus, he inquired, "But... isn''t the appointment of a Deputy Division Chief in the bureau subject to the Bureau Chief''s consent?"


    Qiu Tu spoke carefully, "Director Yan, due to Minister Jia''s incident, might have some objections to me. So... he''s very likely to refuse."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Jiancha laughed and looked at Tang Feifei, "Then it depends on your and Director Tang''s ability."


    "I can only say, I will do my utmost to fight for this opportunity for you."


    "If Director Yan is adamantly opposed, we indeed do not have that much clout. But if he is simply not opposed... even without his support, this matter should still be achievable..."


    -------


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 Chapter 224 - 180: There is no such thing as a free favor (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Qiu Tu pondered.


    ''So, if I want to get promoted, do I need to deceive Yan Chen now?''


    But...this was quite a bit earlier than the timing he had planned.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but consider if there were other methods.


    After a moment, he raised his head, looked at Tang Jiancha, and asked, "Tang Jiancha, you mean as long as the Bureau Chief doesn''t object, it''ll be fine, right?"


    "So, whether he is willingly non-oppositional or compelled by the situation..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s remark, a look of satisfaction appeared on Tang Jiancha''s face, "Yes."


    It was as if he had been reminding Qiu Tu all along.


    However, after saying this, he also reminded, "But you need to understand, as a deputy division chief, if you can''t get the Bureau Chief''s support."


    "Then you may very well be limited to working within the narrow confines of your existing authority."


    "Moreover, you may face difficulties from above and be unable to command your subordinates."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled.


    He truly didn''t care about this.


    Setting aside the fact that his desire for a promotion was to enhance his own strength, to see how his Cataclysmic ability would change after advancing to Second Order, even if it weren''t for the increase in strength, he wasn''t worried about the power he would hold after his promotion.


    After all, the nominal source of power comes from the upper echelons, but its essence comes from the lower ranks.


    With a loyal direct line of several dozen whose loyalty exceeded 80, including a deputy staff chief, two first-level detectives, and numerous veteran investigators (second-class investigators), Qiu Tu could already bypass permissions to do many things.


    Furthermore, at the Investigation Bureau''s high-level meetings, he had two allies in Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai.


    At the higher levels of Xinjie City''s Municipal Committee, there were two bigshots who appreciated him and were extending olive branches: Dai Yukang from the Security Department and Commissioner Jiang.


    With connections at all three levels ¨C upper, middle, and lower ¨C Qiu Tu was truly becoming well-feathered and hard to cordon off.


    This was also the reason why he had just inquired whether it was possible to compel Yan Chen to "not oppose" under certain circumstances.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu, sure of his approach, once again thanked the recently helpful Tang Jiancha, "Thank you, Tang Jiancha. I understand now."


    And so, a simple case analysis meeting quickly concluded.


    Although Qiu Tu provided many clues and details, there was still no direct evidence.


    And given the sensitivity of Jia Shu''s identity, the case would be dragged on for a few more days before reaching a result.


    However, everyone present actually understood that the case was highly likely to end with this outcome.


    This was not only the real truth of the case, but also... the best result of compromises from all sides.


    As a result, Qiu Tu resolved his grave threat and would be promoted one level; Tang Feifei eliminated one of Yan Chen''s core allies, preventing herself from becoming more passive; the Disciplinary Department cracked the case; and even... Jia Shu didn''t suffer much, needing only to lie low for a year or two before he could quickly make a comeback...


    Such an outcome, even if the people behind Jia Shu knew, they probably wouldn''t stir up additional trouble.


    Politics is, after all, the art of compromise...


    After sending off the three supervisors from the Disciplinary Department, Tang Feifei closed the door to her office and analyzed to Qiu Tu, "This is probably the fallback Jia Shu had prepared for himself all along."


    "He hasn''t crossed that red line in the past few months, precisely to avoid being unable to recover if investigated."


    Qiu Tu nodded and commented, "He''s very cunning. More cunning than most¡­"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s assessment, Tang Feifei smiled, squinted her eyes, and looked at him, "But you''re also not simple, right?"


    Tang Feifei, walking back to her desk with her long legs, sat down and said, "Tell me, do you have any other plans?"


    "Based on my understanding of you, you''re not the kind of person who really harbors justice or fairness."


    At her words, Qiu Tu pretended to be surprised and said, "Feifei, I didn''t expect you to have such a big misunderstanding about me?!"


    After speaking, he couldn''t help but ask, "So what image do I have in your heart?"


    With narrowed eyes and a predatory gaze, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu, "A bull, seemingly full of inexhaustible energy."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    That''s what you call spending money for power.


    Strangely, Qiu Tu felt that he had recently provoked Tang Feifei a little too much, that it was somewhat dangerous.


    The scariest thing isn''t putting on airs; it''s realizing you''re actually a bit inadequate after doing so...


    ''Seems like I need to get promoted soon, to boost my strength and stamina, otherwise I won''t be able to withstand Tang Feifei''s draining even a few times...''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu swiftly changed the subject. "Tang Jiancha seems quite good to me," he said.


    "Although at first his attitude toward us was somewhat indifferent, later on, whether it was his advice or support, it showed that he''s a decent person."


    Tang Feifei''s eyes smiled into crescents¡ªthis woman, an ice queen in front of others, was remarkably expressive in front of Qiu Tu.


    "He is my maternal uncle," she revealed.


    Qiu Tu''s face showed understanding, yet he wasn''t surprised.


    In this world, there is no such thing as unreasonable "hatred," nor is there unreasonable "love."


    The moment Qiu Tu noticed Tang Jiancha''s lukewarm attitude toward him and Tang Feifei, he felt something was off.


    Latterly, after learning of his surname, Qiu Tu had a hunch. This was why he dared to make a move to test the waters.


    As for the end... when Tang Jiancha suddenly prepared to lift Qiu Tu up the ranks, even giving him deep advice under the guise of casual conversation, Qiu Tu completely saw through the other party''s identity.


    After all, he wasn''t a succubus who could make a stranger fall in love with him at first sight and treat him as if he were a junior.


    Thus, there was only one explanation: Tang Jiancha was a relative of Tang Feifei, and might even be aware of the special relationship between him and Tang Feifei...


    That could explain the other party''s change in attitude.


    "Damn it... It seems no matter what world one is in, having connections is essential."


    "Fortunately... I''m also basking in the light now."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had just verified his guess, got up with composure and bid farewell to Tang Feifei, "Well, Bureau Chief, I should get back to work."


    "Even though Jia Shu has been captured, the case isn''t settled yet."


    "If I want Yan Chen not to oppose my promotion, I still need to do some other work."


    Tang Feifei watched Qiu Tu with a smile, pleased that he had guessed Tang Jiancha''s identity early on.


    Partners could only reassure you if they were smart enough.


    However, Tang Feifei was quite curious about how Qiu Tu would get Yan Chen to not oppose his promotion, so she couldn''t help but ask, "Do you have a plan?"


    Qiu Tu pointed at his head and confidently said, "I''ve thought it all through already."


    After speaking, he smiled brilliantly and turned away with flair.


    It had to be said, the already handsome him, clad in his black uniform and boots, enhanced by his confident speech, instantly maxed out his sex appeal.


    Tang Feifei watched his retreating figure like a female leopard eyeing its prey, her eyes narrowed slightly, and her heart raced with a "thump thump"...


    Wasn''t this much more fun than Liu Fuping''s soft and coquettish charms?


    ...


    After leaving Tang Feifei''s office, Qiu Tu strode towards the elevator.


    The reporting hour must have passed. There were fewer division chiefs and staff waiting in the corridor, which meant fewer odd looks for Qiu Tu.


    However, he believed it wouldn''t take long for the news of Qiu Tu siding with Tang Feifei to spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    This was exactly what Qiu Tu wanted.


    The harder the pressure now, the higher the rebound later.


    As Qiu Tu was analyzing the situation, Secretary Bai happened to bring a division chief into Yan Chen''s office and then came out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu waiting for the elevator, Secretary Bai looked his way.


    Qiu Tu felt the gaze and looked up.


    Their eyes met across the corridor, and even though nothing was said, there was an unspoken understanding between them.


    "Ding."


    The elevator arrived.


    Qiu Tu took his gaze back and stepped into the elevator.


    As the elevator doors closed, Qiu Tu faintly heard someone brown-nosing Secretary Bai, bad-mouthing him.


    "Secretary Bai, don''t be angry. That kind of thankless wolf, he''ll fall sooner or later. Heh heh."


    "By the way, Secretary Bai, our Public Security Office''s equipment has always been lacking. We''ve applied to Chief Huang several times, but he just won''t approve."


    "Secretary Bai, look, could you see if you can... approve it."


    Secretary Bai''s smile was radiant, "Director Tian, you have to understand, some things aren''t approved for a reason."


    "Did you say something wrong and offend Chief Huang?"


    He patted the director on the shoulder with an insinuating tone, "There are so many secrets in the Bureau, sometimes it''s very important to keep your mouth shut. Perhaps a single sentence has offended someone."


    With that, he turned and returned to his office.


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, that plump-faced director looked bewildered, "No way. I hardly ever spoke with Chief Huang. How could I have offended him..." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Muttering to himself for a moment, the director saw Secretary Bai leave and hurried after him, "Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai, let''s talk more, just a bit more..."


    The elevator doors slowly closed. Qiu Tu''s lips turned up slightly... Old Bai was still Old Bai.


    Taking the elevator back down to the second floor''s Public Security Bureau, Qiu Tu walked toward the investigation group''s office, ready to have a word with Commissioner Jiang''s "liaison," Liu Fuping.


    In Xinjie City, the only ones who could make Yan Chen compromise were his fellow Three Giants, Commissioner Jiang and General Ye.


    Qiu Tu had already given Commissioner Jiang such a big gift previously, and now it was time to get some "compensation" in return.


    Besides, this would also help strengthen their relationship.


    To quickly increase someone''s favor, you should never just give unilaterally, but also ask for something from time to time.


    In fact, most of the time, "asking" could deepen a relationship more than "giving."


    Moreover, to thoroughly deal with Jia Shu, Qiu Tu needed Liu Fuping''s help...


    --------


    3 chapters, 10,000 words, ha. I''ve been doing 10,000 words a day for 26 consecutive days, many authors promise monthly ticket bonuses for updates but don''t update as much as me, so I beg for your Monthly Ticket! Thanks!

 Chapter 226 - 182: Shen Lingshuang: You Sold Your Body (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    Hearing the girl''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then closed the door and continued to ask, "What are you doing?"


    Shen Lingshuang said with a giggly smile, "I got two pieces of rather interesting Cataclysmic Material at the black market yesterday."


    "I figured I could make Cataclysmic Treasures out of them."


    "So, today I went and got a workbench for crafting Cataclysmic Treasures, thinking I''d give it a try."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback and said with a hint of surprise, "You know how to craft Cataclysmic Treasures?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang suddenly became proud.


    She hopped down from the workbench, tilted her head, hands on hips, and proclaimed with pride,


    "This young lady has always been versatile~~ Fortune-telling, face-reading, authentication, alchemy, beast taming, treasure crafting! There''s nothing I can''t do, nothing I don''t know~~"


    "Truly, as they say, ''In the Jianghu, having many skills does not weigh you down.''~~"


    Qiu Tu watched her cute appearance and laughed so hard that he couldn''t keep his mouth straight.


    Leaving aside whether Shen Lingshuang really knew how to craft Cataclysmic Treasures, just from the emotional value she provided, Qiu Tu felt it was worth it.


    After several exhausting days and a few life-and-death battles, seeing Shen Lingshuang seemed to lessen his fatigue quite a bit.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu affirmed his thoughts and said, "Alright then. Since you want to experiment with something new, I''ll definitely support you all the way."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu thought for a moment, then took out a few pieces of Cataclysmic Material that he had obtained from the [Crisis Treasure Box] and handed them to Shen Lingshuang.


    Taking the Cataclysmic Materials in hand, Shen Lingshuang was obviously surprised.


    She exclaimed, "Memory Clay? Behemoth Ashes? Nameless Stele Powder?"


    "Where did you get all these great items?"


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang accurately identify the various materials for crafting Cataclysmic Treasures, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but give her a second look.


    Leaving aside whether Shen Lingshuang could make something worthwhile, just from her ability to identify these materials, Qiu Tu could be sure that Shen Lingshuang had truly studied the subject.


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu casually said, "I bought them on the fly while on a mission."


    Shen Lingshuang was obviously skeptical, "Let''s not talk about the other things, just the ''Memory Clay'', that''s a Cataclysmic Material that''s hard to come by even in Sanctuaries, and you were able to buy it just like that in the Planning Area?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but remember how ''Crisis Intuition'' had introduced Memory Clay.


    In his memory, ''Crisis Intuition'' had described it as "precious."


    Moreover, he remembered that this particular Cataclysmic Material could be used in a wide variety of Cataclysmic treasures, indicating its broad usage.


    So, it made sense that even Sanctuaries found it scarce.


    However, although Qiu Tu had gained a direct understanding of the value of Memory Clay, he did not change his original statement.


    Even more, he said with a smile, "Just because it can''t be bought in Sanctuaries doesn''t mean it can''t be found in the Planning Area, right?"


    "Isn''t the Planning Area there to collect resources for the Sanctuaries?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang thought for a moment and then, with a cute nod, said, "You make sense."


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu followed up, "Besides, buying a few pieces of Cataclysmic Material is nothing. I''m even planning to buy a villa."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s doe-like eyes suddenly widened. She looked at Qiu Tu in amazement and exclaimed, "Qiu Tu, have you struck it rich?!"


    As she spoke, Shen Lingshuang reflexively glanced at Qiu Tu''s epaulets.


    Last time they met, Shen Lingshuang did not pay attention to Qiu Tu''s epaulet.


    Now, taking a closer look, she was surprised to find that Qiu Tu had already been promoted to Principal Staff!


    She remembered that when she first met Qiu Tu, he seemed to have just been promoted to First Level Detective!


    How had he managed to jump two ranks in just half a month?


    So, she "dada dada" ran over, looked up, her deer-like eyes adorably fixed on Qiu Tu, and exclaimed in surprise, "How did you get promoted to section chief?"


    "Your promotion speed is too fast!"


    Perhaps because he felt relaxed in front of Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Section chief? In a couple of days, I''ll be promoted to Deputy Division Chief, all right."


    This time, Shen Lingshuang''s mouth was completely agape.


    She said, "Your promotion is way too fast!"


    She looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion, then pursed her lips and said, "You haven''t made any deals with the higher-ups at the Investigation Bureau, have you?"


    As she spoke, she propped up her little chin, walked along, and analyzed with pouting lips, "To make a deal, there must be give and take."


    "You got a promotion, so... what did you offer?"


    She turned to Qiu Tu, asking suspiciously, "Your soul? Or maybe chastity?"


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Before Qiu Tu could speak, Shen Lingshuang hummed with her lips pursed and shook her head, "Definitely not the soul. Your soul is pretty filthy to begin with, probably not worth much. So, it must be chastity, right?"


    As she said this, Shen Lingshuang covered her mouth, her watery eyes wide with horror as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Oh my god. Qiu Tu. You actually slept with your boss!"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Honestly, in that moment, Qiu Tu felt utterly dizzy with Shen Lingshuang''s confusing thoughts!


    How on earth did this girl go through a bunch of messy reasoning to reach a correct conclusion?!


    Ptui! Not right! He definitely hadn''t been promoted for sleeping with his boss!


    He earned it through his own abilities!


    Qiu Tu was certain!


    Thus, he couldn''t be bothered to explain, and amidst Shen Lingshuang''s cries of alarm, he grabbed her waist, placed her on his lap, and started smacking her cute little butt, "pap pap pap!"


    A masochist needs to be taught in a masochist''s way!


    As expected... after a light spanking, Shen Lingshuang instantly became obedient.


    Her face flushed red, she lay on Qiu Tu''s legs, rubbing back and forth, looking up at him with misty eyes... like a greedy little kitten.


    Qiu Tu found himself tempted by her gaze, but he knew that now was not the time for such things.


    After all, Shen Lingshuang was right by his side, available for him whenever he wanted.


    At present, the most important thing was to properly arrange their lives together.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu ignored Shen Lingshuang, whose eyes were nearly turning into threads, handed over the Cataclysmic Material to her, and went out to make a phone call...


    This time, Qiu Tu called Qin Shuman.


    As Qiu Tu''s most important partner, whenever he wanted to do something pivotal, Qin Shuman was always the first person he thought of...


    Qin Shuman had been obviously busy these past couple of days, so it took Qiu Tu a full ten or more seconds to finally get her to pick up the phone.


    On the other end of the line, Qin Shuman''s voice sounded a bit weary, "Hello? Qiu Tu. What''s up?"


    Instead of getting straight to the matter at hand, Qiu Tu first expressed his concern, "Are you okay? You sound very tired."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman on the other end of the line raised her hand and rubbed her temples.


    She lifted her head and glanced at the clock on the dim office wall, only then realizing that it was already 7 p.m.


    She got up, made herself a cup of coffee, and walked to the window before replying to Qiu Tu, "Ah... I am a bit worn out lately."


    She said, "Half a year ago, an abnormal storm from the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' descended upon the Disaster Zone located between Xinjie City and Eastern City."


    "At that time, several surrounding cities quietly prepared their defenses. It wasn''t until about a month and a half ago that the storm gradually dissipated."


    "We thought that was the end of it."


    "But who would have expected that half a month ago, experts discovered that the storm from the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' seemed to have changed the landscape of reality."


    "A Moonlight Lake may be forming..."


    "Moonlight Lake?" Qiu Tu asked somewhat curiously, "What''s that?"


    Qin Shuman explained, "It''s a lake formed by the accumulation of the Cataclysmic Material ''Tears of Moonlight.''"


    "According to experts'' estimates, this newly formed Moonlight Lake could produce about 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight..."


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s explanation, Qiu Tu was truly startled.


    The Tears of Moonlight were not unfamiliar to him.


    Although it wasn''t a precious Cataclysmic Material, it was an ingredient for producing the "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion."


    It was with the Tears of Moonlight and Aurora Stone that Shen Lingshuang managed to craft the first batch of two bottles of Cataclysmic Potion for him.


    Although Qiu Tu did not know the exact weight of a bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, he estimated it shouldn''t exceed 20g.


    A bottle of Cataclysmic Potion, using 20g of Tears of Moonlight.


    And with 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, that''s enough to create 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion!


    What an immense interest that represented!


    So, Qiu Tu didn''t even need Qin Shuman to explain further to understand why she had been so tired these past few days.


    As the head of the intelligence department in the Security Department, Qin Shuman''s most important task at present must be to ascertain the actual formation time of this Moonlight Lake... and to figure out the powerful interests lurking behind this Moonlight Lake.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu''s eyes suddenly flashed, recalling some Crisis Warnings he received when he had just arrived in this world.


    At that time, his "Crisis Intuition" alerted him that Yan Chen was embroiled in a huge storm and temporarily unable to spare any attention for himself. (Chapters 14 and 19)


    Based on the timeline, if he wasn''t wrong... it should be related to that Moonlight Lake, right?


    After all, as one of the Three Giants of Xinjie City, only a sudden incident representing massive interests could have caused Yan Chen to be so busy and in such disarray.


    With some quick deductions made in his mind, Qiu Tu came back to the conversation and began to comfort Qin Shuman, "Such enormous interests indeed tend to attract all kinds of petty criminals."


    "Being in charge of intelligence for the Security Department, you''re bound to be busier for sure."


    "But take care of yourself and don''t overwork to the point of exhaustion."


    Heeding Qiu Tu''s heartfelt concern, Qin Shuman standing by the window curled her lips into a faint smile.


    She took a sip of coffee, refreshed herself, and then asked proactively, "You called me, so there must be something important, right?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s inquiry, Qiu Tu then remembered the purpose of his call that night.


    Though he did not wish to add to Qin Shuman''s workload on the other side of the line, Qiu Tu indeed lacked other reliable channels at the moment.


    So, he hummed in agreement and said, "I want to buy a villa with a good location and comprehensive security. Preferably... anonymously."


    Being the seasoned secret agent she was, Qin Shuman immediately responded to his statement, "Are you being targeted?"


    "Evil God? Or United Front?"


    Qiu Tu gave a wry smile, "Both."


    Qiu Tu''s intelligence capabilities had been verified multiple times, so Qin Shuman immediately fell into thought.


    After a moment, she said, "No problem. I''ll have Lin Zuo take care of it for you."


    "I guarantee no one will be able to trace it. And... it should be very safe."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "Where?"


    On the other end of the line, Qin Shuman downed her coffee in one go, her eyes resolute, and declared crisply, "Longshan Road."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback at the mention.


    Longshan Road?


    Qiu Tu was no stranger to Longshan Road.


    It was the largest luxury villa area in Xinjie City, bar none.


    Those who lived there were all prominent figures of Xinjie City before its establishment.


    They included powerful clans second only to the Qin Family, wealthy businessmen involved in multiple industries, and gang leaders with tens of thousands of disciples.


    Even though these magnates gradually lost their grip with the founding of Xinjie City, Longshan Road still maintained a pivotal position within the entire city.


    Moreover, and more importantly, one of Qiu Tu''s key partners, Fang Ming, resided there...


    Recalling the stringent security and armed patrols he witnessed last time he visited Fang Ming, Qiu Tu felt reassured.


    If he moved there, even if the United Front sent two or three squads, they would probably not be able to breach the area in a short time.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu responded with a thanks, "Thank you, Shuman."


    Qin Shuman laughed, "There''s no need for formalities between us." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Afterward, the two of them chatted briefly before hanging up the phone.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu, standing in the dirty and cluttered corridor, took a deep breath.


    He looked out into the night at the faint drizzle and secretly pondered: The crisis from the United Front should be temporarily avoidable...


    But... how to get through the crisis posed by the Evil God Lariro?


    Based on the timeline, she could only arrive either tonight or tomorrow night.


    How should he prepare himself to face it...


    -----


    Still 10,000 words for 3 chapters. The third chapter will be updated around 20:00. Love you guys~

 Chapter 227 - 183 Evil God: Worship Me! (10,000 words subscribe!)

    Facing Larilo, the Evil God, Qiu Tu always lacked confidence deep down.


    After all, compared to tangible people, Larilo was like a ghost.


    Qiu Tu didn''t know how to harm her, how to kill her, or even... where she was.


    Qiu Tu only knew that she had used the female body cloned by Old Master Qin to come to the real world; he only knew that she could Enter Dream at night and could be contacted with ancient coins during the day.


    But beyond that... he knew nothing.


    ''How exactly does the Sanctuary deal with an Evil God?''


    ''Facing such a pervasive enemy, how do the higher-ups of the Sanctuary prepare?''


    Thinking quietly for a while, Qiu Tu suppressed the thick anxiety in his heart, then made several phone calls.


    After everything was arranged, he returned to his room.


    ''No matter what, first make enough preparations, then play it by ear¡­''


    ''At least this time, I''m not completely in the dark about her.'' Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Moreover, if she is a living being, she must have her own desires. So¡­ maybe, I can apply the same methods I use against people to her?''


    Back in the room, Shen Lingshuang was once again holding a large mallet, banging on the workbench.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and shook his head, saying, "Stop banging. The neighbors are going to complain soon."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes widened, "Who dares to complain!?"


    With one hand on her hip and the other hoisting the hammer, she warned with fierce cuteness, "If anyone dares to complain! I''ll, I''ll¡­!"


    Qiu Tu asked, "You''ll do what?"


    Shen Lingshuang squeezed out a cute smile and pulled out a handful of peanuts from her pocket, "I''ll invite them to eat peanuts~~ and ask them to be more understanding. Hehe."


    "Hahaha." Qiu Tu was amused by Shen Lingshuang''s half-tough, half-timid demeanor.


    He walked over, took the mallet from Shen Lingshuang''s hand, and said, "I''ve already asked a friend to help us find a new place to live."


    "We should have one by tomorrow."


    "Then, we can move to our new house tomorrow."


    The emphasis in Qiu Tu''s statement was on "new house," but Shen Lingshuang was keyed into "us."


    Thus, her eyes lit up slightly, "Our new house?!"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Yes."


    He explained, "Recently, I''ve made many enemies. Some might seek revenge."


    "Plus, now that Old Alley Street has developed, too many people come and go, and it''s a mix of good and bad."


    "So, we should move to a safer place to live."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang nodded her head cutely, filled with longing, "In our new house, can I have my own bedroom?"


    Qiu Tu heard her and shook his head, "That won''t be possible."


    Shen Lingshuang''s head drooped immediately, a bit disappointed.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Because I can''t fall asleep at night now without holding you."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang''s face flushed red. Steam practically began to rise from her head.


    Qiu Tu watched the girl blush, then added, "So, although you can''t have your own bedroom, you can decorate any other room in the house as you wish. You can also choose one to be your Alchemy Room or workshop."


    Shen Lingshuang looked up, tilting her head, "Really, truly O.o?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu nod, Shen Lingshuang excitedly jumped onto him, overjoyed, "Yay! Qiu Tu, you''re not that bad after all!"


    Supporting Shen Lingshuang''s perky backside, and seeing her happy demeanor, Qiu Tu chuckled and shook his head: still such a kid, huh...


    He wondered why her parents would let such a young, cute girl wander the Cataclysmic world alone¡­


    ...


    Perhaps because they were moving to a new house tomorrow, Shen Lingshuang was exceptionally excited.


    She stopped hammering and started packing her belongings instead.


    The Cataclysmic Potions had to be taken; Cataclysmic Materials had to be taken; the workbench had to be taken; even some pots and pans, as well as rice, flour, oil, and salt, had to be taken.


    Watching her pack and mutter about what else she might have forgotten, Qiu Tu sitting on the sofa was a bit speechless.


    He said, "Anything you need can be bought once we get to the new place."


    "That rice and flour aren''t expensive. They''re heavy to carry. There''s no need to take them."


    Shen Lingshuang rolled her eyes at Qiu Tu, mumbling, "Such a rich young master, never managed a household."


    "Those were bought with hard-earned Copper Yuan. How can we waste them?"


    Qiu Tu suggested, "We could give them to the neighbors, then."


    Shen Lingshuang paused, still shaking her head, and continued packing, "Better not. I picked these out meticulously, I can''t bear to part with them..."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang''s stingy behavior, Qiu Tu found it quite amusing.


    This girl could not only help her neighbors make money but was also nit-picky when it came to buying and giving things away.


    What kind of living environment had shaped such a girl?


    Just like that, Shen Lingshuang continued to tidy up until late into the night before finally finishing, and then the two of them washed up a bit and went to bed.


    Perhaps because she was a bit excited, Shen Lingshuang lay in Qiu Tu''s arms, chattering non-stop with her little mouth going "pah pah pah."


    Unable to take it anymore, Qiu Tu covered her mouth and physically silenced her, at last putting a stop to her ceaseless desire to communicate.


    In this manner, while blocking Shen Lingshuang''s mouth and gently patting her back, it took Qiu Tu a whole half-hour to finally put the girl to deep sleep.


    And after Shen Lingshuang fell asleep, Qiu Tu got up, looked at her for a moment, and then headed to the neighboring room.


    In the neighboring room, Sister Xin was already waiting. Also there were Ah-Tai, Eagle, and both Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng who had finished the celebration feast.


    Entering the room, Qiu Tu said to Sister Xin, "Sister Xin, I''ll have to trouble you to take care of Ling Shuang tonight too."


    Sister Xin said cheerfully, "No problem, no problem. Little sister Ling Shuang has been a big help to us lately; it''s only right that I take care of her."


    After speaking, she gestured towards her bed and said, "I''ll go over there now, make yourself at home, feel free."


    Qiu Tu nodded his head, watching Sister Xin leave his room for her own.


    Seeing this, Ah-Tai scratched his head, saying naively, "Brother Tu, you''re being overly cautious."


    "Even if United Front really planned to attack tonight, we''ll make sure Ling Shuang is safe."


    "You should just focus on dealing with the Evil God."


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "You don''t understand. There''s no cure for regret in this world."


    "We''ll be moving tomorrow, so tonight is the only night something could possibly go wrong."


    "Although it''s very unlikely that United Front knows about it, I don''t want to regret anything because of a slight oversight."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu also turned to Ah-Tai and Eagle, "Besides, tell the brothers to be more cautious these days."


    "Try to move in groups as much as possible, and don''t give United Front any openings."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ah-Tai and Eagle immediately became serious and nodded.


    After arranging for Ah-Tai and Eagle to stand guard outside in the corridor, Qiu Tu lay down on Sister Xin''s bed, ready to sleep.


    As for Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, of course, they were staying by his side.


    The two had once undergone special training with the Security Department; they knew how to pick up on Qiu Tu''s warnings in dreams and how to wake him.


    Therefore, with Liu Fuping inconvenient to show up, having the two of them come over to stay the night was the best choice.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gave a few more instructions to the two, and then lay down on the bed, falling into a deep sleep.....


    He didn''t know how long he had slept, maybe ten minutes, maybe an hour....


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu felt as though he was groggy.


    A woman''s voice was gently calling in his ear, "Qiu Tu.... Qiu Tu...."


    Hearing that familiar voice, Qiu Tu wanted to open his eyes, but found that he seemed unable to move.


    His muddled mind couldn''t quite figure out what was happening.


    He had a keen feeling something was wrong, yet he didn''t know what exactly it was....


    And it was then.


    That woman''s whisper came to his ears again, "Qiu Tu... what do you desire?"


    Qiu Tu mumbled, "Desire what....?"


    "I desire... power, money, women."


    The woman chuckled lightly, "Such vulgar yet true desires."


    "But that''s fine. I can give you everything you want."


    Still in a daze, Qiu Tu seemed to retain a shred of reason, "Why would you give me everything I want?"


    The woman replied, "Because... I am an omnipotent God."


    "Just worship me, become my follower, and you can fulfill all your wishes."


    "Power, money, women...."


    "I can make you the dictator of the Sanctuary."


    "Give you endless wealth."


    "Select for you, train all the women that meet your heart''s desire...."


    -----


    Three updates and 10,000 words haha. Continuing with the daily 10,000 words tonight. Love you guys!

 Chapter 228 - 184 Anti-Deceiving the Heretic Goddess Girl (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing the woman''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression revealed a hint of longing, as if he were truly enticed by what the woman said.


    The woman continued to increase her temptation.


    She whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear, "Imagine that scene..."


    "You stand at the pinnacle of the world, with all humanity groveling at your feet..."


    "You can grant life to whomever you wish, and death to anyone at your whim..."


    "You can possess infinite wealth, you can have countless beauties..."


    "You can fulfill all your desires..."


    "Indulge in pleasures you have never experienced before..."


    A complex expression woven from struggle and desire began to appear on Qiu Tu''s face....


    The woman murmured softly, like a songstress serenading, "What are you waiting for? What are you hesitating about?"


    Qiu Tu, "Can... Can I really achieve anything I desire?"


    The woman chuckled lightly, "Of course... as long as you pledge yourself to me."


    Qiu Tu, "Then... then can I make you serve me?"


    Woman: ???


    Qiu Tu, "I''ve had my fill of ordinary women, I want Evil Gods to grovel at my feet!" S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I want those thousands of High Order Cataclysmic Creatures to become my servants..."


    "I want to be the supreme leader of the entire world!"


    Woman: ???


    Qiu Tu, "Can... can you fulfill my wish?"


    "Hehehehe..." The woman chuckled again, "When did you awaken?"


    While speaking, the fog suddenly enveloped everything, turning the whole world into a burst of pure white.


    And there lay Qiu Tu amidst the fog, while atop the divine throne sat a stunning woman with a tall figure and exquisite curves, looking down at Qiu Tu from above.


    Her breathtaking features were sharp and brilliant, possessing both Liu Fuping''s charm and Tang Feifei''s heroic air.


    A few strands of hair beside her ear added an extra touch of allure. A smile or a frown from her seemed capable of drawing one into oblivion....


    Qiu Tu slowly opened his eyes, his gaze lingered on the woman for a moment, then he asked in confusion, "Larilo?"


    The woman held her head high, nodding slightly.


    Qiu Tu was surprised, "Why have you changed your appearance?"


    Larilo chuckled lightly, her eyes filled with amusement. She crossed her long legs and said, "Gods can freely change their appearances, can''t they?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, then tentatively asked, "So... do you think I would like this type of woman, which is why you''ve taken this form?"


    Although Larilo''s expression remained unchanged, Qiu Tu clearly caught a momentary pause in her smile.


    A slight sense of joy arose in Qiu Tu''s heart. Indeed... this Evil God was transforming her appearance and figure according to his preferences.


    The first time she met him, she must have mimicked Shen Lingshuang''s youthful charm?


    After discovering she hadn''t seduced him, this time she transformed into a combination of Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei.


    From this, it was clear that the Evil God truly understood him...


    Who could be her inside agent within the top ranks of the Investigation Bureau?


    While pondering in his mind, Qiu Tu also jokingly said with a smile, "It seems even an Evil God isn''t omnipotent."


    "She even has to try all sorts of ways to please an ordinary human."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s slightly mocking words, Larilo was unfazed.


    She smiled at Qiu Tu, twirling a lock of hair that fell by her face, and said, "Shouldn''t you feel honored?"


    "It signifies the importance God places on you."


    Qiu Tu nodded approvingly, "Indeed."


    "But the affair with Old Master Qin also taught me that the more an Evil God values you, the more likely there is something on you she desires."


    Larilo laughed, her chest heaving. She countered, "What do you think I want to take from you?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quipped, "Soul? Chastity?"


    "Hiss..." he feigned hesitation, "My soul has long been tainted and hardly of any interest to you."


    "So, you must have set your sights on my chastity, right?"


    "Giggle, giggle, giggle." Larilo laughed heartily.


    Her golden eyes filled with mirth as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, you really are amusing."


    "I''m not lying to you, consider it, becoming my follower."


    "Let us build a beautiful new world together."


    Seeing Larilo laughing so heartily, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face gradually faded.


    He spoke wistfully, "Your Highness Larilo, I recall you asking why I woke up."


    "Actually, your seduction and charm were very successful at first. I was nearly immersed in the dream you wove."


    "Power, money, beautiful women..."


    "Such tempting desires."


    At this point, Qiu Tu laughed self-deprecatingly, "But... what you might not have expected is that I''ve also been tempted in this way before."


    "And fell into that woven dream, but it was a real trap."


    "So, I know there is no such thing as a free lunch in this world."


    "I also know that pies don''t just fall from the sky."


    "And I understand the importance of controlling desires."


    "So, when the pie you were offering me became bigger and bigger, I suddenly woke up. No... I was startled awake."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused, then took the initiative to say, "So, don''t draw any more pies for me, let''s play something more interesting, shall we?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s proposition, Larilo''s expression became increasingly serious.


    She finally stopped treating Qiu Tu as a mere plaything, but rather as a partner to be considered.


    This made her already sharp and brilliant features appear even more noble and imposing.


    "Oh? More interesting? What could be more interesting?"


    Hearing Larilo''s question, Qiu Tu stood up from the ground and then looked up at Larilo, seated high on her divine throne, and said, "If I''m not mistaken, Jia Shu is not your follower. It''s his brother Jia Wei, right?"


    Larilo heard this, her expression unchanged, neither denying nor acknowledging.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Actually, ever since our last meeting, I''d already discovered your strategy to ''drive the wolf to devour the tiger.''"


    "But... I too wanted to devour Jia Shu, that terrifying tiger."


    "So, it seems we''re of one mind and naturally hit it off."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "But... what you might not know is that Jia Shu didn''t die, nor was he suspended."


    "He had already found a way out long before he prepared to assassinate me."


    "He not only contacted his backers at the top echelons of the Sanctuary in advance but also destroyed all evidence of his connection with you and his brother."


    "Even... he claimed that his attack on me was just due to a personal grudge."


    Larilo sneered upon hearing this, "Do you all believe that kind of explanation?"


    Qiu Tu shrugged, "Honestly, we don''t believe it. But... he is after all a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, not just any ordinary person."


    "Plus, with someone backing him, we need sufficient evidence to take him down. And now, it''s clear we don''t have that capability..."


    Upon hearing this, Larilo''s gaze visibly grew colder.


    She spoke indifferently, "Then what do you suggest?"


    Qiu Tu confidently replied, "Let''s collaborate. Let''s work together."


    Seeing that Larilo was unmoved, Qiu Tu took a step back, "I know you want to make me your follower."


    "But... honestly, Your Highness, I''m not familiar with you, and I know even less about your divine power."


    "Under such circumstances, how could I possibly become your devout follower?"


    "So, let''s start with collaboration, to build a connection between us."


    "After that, through gradually understanding, I will then decide whether to worship you."


    "Don''t you think such faith would be more sincere?"


    Seeing Larilo still unmoved, Qiu Tu laughed and retorted, "You... couldn''t possibly lack confidence in yourself, could you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo finally reacted.


    She chuckled "Hehehe," and then said, "Me? Lacking confidence?"


    "Don''t joke with me."


    "I have unparalleled confidence in my own power and approach!"


    "Reproduction is the true path of this world!"


    After speaking, her golden eyes looked at Qiu Tu, and with a half-smile, she asked, "Tell me, how do you want to collaborate?"


    Seeing that Larilo had genuinely agreed to his request for collaboration, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief in his heart.


    Even after all this, it has come to this step, huh...


    Actually, ever since he saw the "Appreciation of the Evil God" Crisis Warning, Qiu Tu had a premonition:


    The disparity in status between him and Larilo was too great, and it would be difficult to outright reject Larilo while coming out unscathed.


    But... according to the "Crisis Intuition" prompt, if he really defected to Larilo''s camp, he would become a traitor and would sooner or later be caught by the Sanctuary.


    So, for the past couple of days, Qiu Tu had been pondering how to deal with this matter.


    Although he still didn''t have a foolproof plan to overcome this predicament up until now. But... today''s talk with Tang Jiancha about Jia Shu''s crimes gave him an idea.


    Jia Shu neither pledged allegiance to the Evil Gods nor betrayed the Sanctuary; he just made a brief collaboration with the Evil Gods for his own benefit.


    It could be because of the chaotic times or possibly because of his background, but such behavior, while treading the line, didn''t actually cross it.


    So, in the absence of a better choice, Qiu Tu simply decided to copy Jia Shu''s path.


    He would also engage in a simple collaboration with the Evil God but not pledge allegiance to any.


    That way, wouldn''t the crisis be averted at least for a short time?


    After all, Jia Shu had a backing, and so did he... Tang Feifei.


    If the day of disaster truly came, for her own happiness, Tang Feifei would probably find a way to pull some strings for him, right?


    Moreover, Qiu Tu had a resource that Jia Shu didn''t have ¨C the Security Department.


    Let''s not forget, Qiu Tu was holding a post in the Security Department, a special agency dealing with the affairs of the Evil Gods and Cataclysmics.


    If Qiu Tu were to make an undercover report in advance and hand it to Qin Shuman, to be produced when it''s time for retribution,


    That should minimize the impact of the event. It might even be far from the degree of dismissal...


    Having reviewed his own internal plan, Qiu Tu faced Larilo''s inquiry with even more confidence and composure.


    He said with a light smile, "Your Highness, all cooperation proceeds step by step."


    "Since our first collaboration began with getting rid of Jia Shu, why don''t we continue this partnership by eliminating Jia Shu as well?"


    Upon hearing this, the golden pupils of Larilo shone brightly, and her voice tinged with a hint of amusement, "Oh? And how do you propose we get rid of Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu found that Larilo was indeed hard to deal with. Every sentence she spoke seemed quite normal.


    But upon closer scrutiny, one would realize she was always vying for control over the topic of conversation.


    Yet, Qiu Tu definitely could not hand over this power to Larilo, so he smiled enigmatically, "I have a clever plan."


    "However, I need Your Highness to provide me with a few things."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo asked, "What help?"


    Qiu Tu smiled...


    For the next half-hour, Qiu Tu and Larilo discussed in detail what he needed.


    After listening, Larilo almost guessed Qiu Tu''s plan without needing his explanation.


    Her golden eyes looked at Qiu Tu with a hint of skepticism, and then she said, "Are you sure... this will work?"


    Qiu Tu shrugged, "How will we know if we don''t try?"


    "Plus... aside from this plan, I actually have another backup strategy."


    "It''s just, that might put me in a somewhat passive position."


    After hearing this, Larilo fell silent for two seconds, then finally chuckled and said, "Okay. I agree to your request."


    "Tomorrow, you will get what you want."


    Qiu Tu bowed slightly to Larilo, "I thank Your Highness."


    After bowing, Qiu Tu was ready to bid Larilo farewell and end their meeting for the evening.


    But just then, Larilo called out to Qiu Tu again, "Qiu Tu."


    ------


    Today is still 3 updates of 10k words each! The next chapter updates at 20:00!


    This month has already had continuous 10k updates for 28 days, with the last 3 days being double Monthly Tickets, asking for Monthly Tickets! Asking for Monthly Tickets! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 229 - 185 Heretic Goddess Girls Demand (10,000 words subscribe!)

    Qiu Tu heard this and looked up at her with a hint of confusion.


    "In fact, cooperation isn''t limited to just one at a time, is it?" said Larilo with a calm gaze at Qiu Tu, her eyes narrowing into a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu felt a "thud" in his heart, guessing what Larilo was thinking.


    Sure enough, Larilo rose from her divine seat and then smiled as she walked step by step toward Qiu Tu. "Moreover, if my cooperation with Jia Shu can''t even get Jia Shu punished..."


    "Then what makes me believe that cooperation with you will place any restrictions on you?"


    As she said this, she walked up to Qiu Tu, her tone gentle, "So, you also need to show some sincerity, to make me believe that you truly want to cooperate with me, and not just use me or stall for time..."


    "Don''t you think... Isn''t that right, my future Archbishop?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Archbishop, I might as well be the main character.


    Qiu Tu realized that this Heretic Goddess was truly adept at baiting with promises, one after another, leaving no chance to breathe.


    The only pity was that Qiu Tu had his fill of empty promises in his past life, and in this life, he truly couldn''t stomach anymore. So he wasn''t fooled.


    However, considering the current circumstances, although he wasn''t tempted himself, he still had to pretend to be interested, so he feigned sincerity and said, "Your Highness makes a good point. What would Your Highness like me to do to prove my sincerity?"


    Larilo clearly had her demands well thought out already, so she spoke indifferently, "A Moonlight Lake is about to emerge between Xinjie City and Eastern City."


    "I have calculated that I have a destined connection with that Moonlight Lake. It''s a key resource for my continued ascension."


    "However, that Moonlight Lake has already been defended by both cities, with three major institutions."


    "I need you to help me find out exactly when the Moonlight Lake will fully coalesce."


    "When the time comes, I will personally retrieve what is mine."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but be a little shocked.


    He had considered that Larilo''s great efforts to cause trouble in Xinjie City might be for some need.


    But... he never thought that what Larilo was after was the Moonlight Lake!


    That Moonlight Lake was rumored to be capable of refining 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, enough to make tens of thousands of Cataclysmic Awakening Potions¡ªan important strategic resource.


    ''This Heretic Goddess''s appetite is too great...'' he thought to himself, but Qiu Tu certainly couldn''t say that out loud.


    So after a brief contemplation, he smiled slightly and bowed, "As you wish..."


    No matter what, the priority was to deceive this Heretic Goddess first.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu was never afraid of someone with a big appetite. On the contrary, he liked such people the most.


    Because it meant they had desires, and desires could be exploited...


    Perhaps in time, he would even be able to use those desires to manipulate the Heretic Goddess.


    Meanwhile, seeing Qiu Tu agree so readily, Larilo, with a beaming smile, said, "My Archbishop is indeed decisive."


    "Then I''ll be waiting for your good news."


    "I know you won''t disappoint me."


    With that, Larilo paused, her face revealing a sly smile, "After all, you wouldn''t want to know the cost of disappointing me..."


    After speaking, she waved her hand, and at once, Qiu Tu felt darkness before his eyes, losing consciousness...


    He didn''t know how much time had passed. It could''ve been a minute, or maybe even more than an hour.


    "Huff!"


    Qiu Tu suddenly awoke from his sleep!


    His eyes wide open, he sat up abruptly on the bed.


    Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng, who had been by his side the whole time, hurried over to him.


    Chen Feng, being more silent by nature, let Cao Dabiao ask with concern, "Brother Tu, are you okay?"


    Seeing their concerned faces, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then shook his head to reassure them, "I''m fine. I''m okay."


    After speaking, he asked, "How long did I sleep?"


    Chen Feng had apparently been keeping track of the time.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, he replied, "1 hour and 13 minutes."


    Qiu Tu upon hearing that, "Such a short time?"


    Truth to be told, Qiu Tu even felt the conversation with Larilo took more than an hour.


    ''It seems... perception of time becomes less acute in dreams?''


    While Qiu Tu was pondering the details of the dream, Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng exchanged glances, then also asked, "Brother Tu, have you already met with that Heretic Goddess?"


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and nodded.


    ```


    He might have resolved a concern. He leaned back on the headboard and said with a slight ease, "Yes, I''ve seen her."


    At his words, Cao Dabiao blinked, grinning as he said, "Sounds like... you''re in a pretty good mood? So, did you and her communicate smoothly?"


    What could Qiu Tu say?


    He could only respond, "It was passable."


    Though lacking enthusiasm, Cao Dabiao''s interest was piqued.


    He was clearly fascinated by the legendary Evil God and asked curiously, "Chief, what does the Evil God actually look like? Is she very beautiful?"


    Qiu Tu recalled for a moment, then commented, "How should I put it...


    "She seems to be able to change her appearance at will in dreams. She can become larger, smaller, turn into a young girl or a mature lady."


    "The only constant might be her aura."


    "Aura?" Cao Dabiao was curious, "What kind of aura?"


    Qiu Tu snorted, "What other aura could it be."


    "It''s intellectual without losing dignity, elegant without losing beauty, like Ouyang without its radical."


    Cao Dabiao understood the first two phrases, but was puzzled by the last, "Ouyang without its radical? What does that mean?"


    At that moment, Chen Feng caught Qiu Tu''s riddle, and even with his reserved nature, couldn''t help but laugh. Then he commented, "It seems that Heretic Goddess is indeed not easy to deal with...


    Seeing Chen Feng had guessed the answer, Qiu Tu glanced at him with a smile, then he sighed deeply, "Indeed not easy to deal with..."


    With that, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but place his hands behind his head, reminiscing about the Moonlight Lake that was about to emerge, entangling the many forces within and outside Xinjie City...


    Since so many forces were concerned about the Moonlight Lake, could he take advantage of this resource and stir things up?


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was thinking this.


    The countdown hourglass in the upper left corner of his vision for "Appreciation of the Evil God" started to change slowly.


    Along with the change in the countdown hourglass, several new prompts popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    "Congratulations on successfully overcoming the crisis of ''Appreciation of the Evil God''. You have not only earned the initial trust of the Evil God but also have not betrayed the human ranks."


    "However, the Evil God is not easily fooled. She has entrusted you with a task to verify your ''loyalty'': Acquire the actual time of concentration at Moonlight Lake."


    "You have only 4 days. If you cannot obtain this information within 4 days, maybe she will make you understand the price of playing with the Evil God!"


    As the prompts before his eyes ended, the countdown hourglass for "Appreciation of the Evil God" slowly transformed into a trembling little treasure chest.


    Then it moved to the right, alongside the Crisis Treasure Box obtained after passing "Jia Shu''s Assassination".


    Another countdown hourglass appeared and jumped next to the other two crisis hourglasses...


    "Promise of the Evil God (4 days)"


    "Revenge of the Linked Formation (8.5 days)"


    "Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)"


    ...


    A night without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu rose from his bed, embracing Shen Lingshuang.


    Although he had made a series of preparations the night before, things did not go as badly as he had anticipated.


    ¡ªOr rather, there were no United Front spies around him and Qin Shuman.


    The United Front probably didn''t know he would be moving today, so they missed their last chance to attack him last night.


    This let Qiu Tu breath a sigh of relief: he had too many enemies to face recently, he was too tired, he really didn''t have the energy to deal with the United Front anymore!


    After getting up in the morning and having breakfast with Shen Lingshuang, Lin Zuo''s call came in.


    The content of the call was simple, just to inform Qiu Tu that the villa had been chosen and the movers had been arranged. He could move now.


    However, to avoid someone trailing Qiu Tu and discovering his new address, he suggested that Qiu Tu should not handle it personally.


    Qiu Tu happily agreed to this request, then called over Eagle and Ah-Kun, two trusted and cautious confidants, to oversee the entire moving process...


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he was going to meet Secretary Tao and have a talk with Commissioner Jiang about a business concerning his promotion...


    Driving his old and battered sedan, Qiu Tu headed towards the house opposite the Investigation Bureau. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After driving for over twenty minutes, Qiu Tu finally arrived at the house where they had met last time.


    He circled around, parked the car at a distance, then walked through several alleys before entering the house.....


    ------


    Today is still 3 updates of 10,000 words each! Next chapter at 20:00! It''s been 28 consecutive days of reaching 10,000 words a day, the last 3 days, double Monthly Ticket time, begging for Monthly Tickets! Monthly Tickets! Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 230 - 186: 108 Ways to Enhance Affection Part 2 (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As soon as Qiu Tu walked into the courtyard, he heard a beautiful harmonica melody coming from inside the house.


    The sound was clear and melodious, like a mountain stream, twirling and dancing in the air.


    At times it was light and brisk, like a spring breeze, with a touch of joy that was hard to detect; at other times deep and somber, like the night, filled with thoughts and stories.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but stop in his tracks and listen intently.


    In these troubled times, too many people have too many stories. Clearly, the woman inside was no different...


    After quietly listening for two or three minutes, when the piece ended, Qiu Tu clapped as he stepped inside.


    "I didn''t expect Secretary Tao to have harmonica skills. It seems that nobody who works as a secretary for the Commissioner is simple."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, Tao Yaoyao inside the house smiled and responded, "It''s just a little pastime of mine."


    "Compared to Chief Qiu... it''s nothing."


    During the conversation, she turned around to look at Qiu Tu.


    At the moment, Qiu Tu, who had just entered the room, happened to lay his eyes on her.


    It had to be said, this woman was indeed enchanting, with bold makeup and attire.


    A tight-fitted professional outfit outlined her curvaceous figure, the contours shaped by the clinging clothes as if hiding secrets and charm unknown to others, compelling one to unravel and explore.


    And the upward flick of her eyeliner, along with the deep red of her lips, added a touch of danger to the mystery.


    It was clear that the woman before him was no innocent, but a black widow who might take your life at any moment.


    Such a temperament and appearance, to be honest, were like the brightest spotlight in chaotic times, causing everyone''s gaze to converge on her involuntarily.


    It greedily attracted all covetous and lustful eyes.


    In such circumstances, this woman was still living well, and the fact that she was also skilled in instruments only further evidenced her extraordinary nature.


    ¡ª¡ªIn chaotic times, musical instruments are not something common people can come into contact with.


    While constructing a model of the woman before him in his mind, Qiu Tu also complimented as he walked into the inner room, "Being proficient in a musical instrument in such times is not something trivial."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu suddenly asked, "Besides, Secretary Tao, surely you''re proficient in more than just one instrument, right?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao wore a faint smile and frankly said, "Indeed, more than one. Harmonica, violin, harp, and even saxophone¡ªI know a thing or two about each."


    ''Certainly not an ordinary identity.''


    While continuing to sort through information in his mind, Qiu Tu praised, "Secretary Tao is truly talented."


    "I hope I''ll have the chance to listen to your performance someday."


    Tao Yaoyao''s eyes were seductive, but her tone of voice carried a prickliness.


    "Sure. As long as Chief Qiu becomes the Bureau Chief, I will surely come to play for you late at night."


    A statement that was dangerous yet aggressive.


    It was as if mocking Qiu Tu for not being qualified, while also giving him something to look forward to, mixed with the ambiguity of a late-night serenade...


    Dangerous and alluring.


    Qiu Tu found it quite interesting.


    He focused on Tao Yaoyao''s narrow, enchanting eyes and smoothly said, "Then it''s a deal."


    "When I do become the Bureau Chief, I''ll definitely give Secretary Tao a call."


    "At that time, you mustn''t reject my late-night invitation..."


    Tao Yaoyao had thought her reticent retort would make Qiu Tu back off, yet unexpectedly, he dared to climb even higher.


    This caused a dangerous gleam to flicker within her slightly narrowed eyes...


    Qiu Tu, with his keen perception, noticed the change in Tao Yaoyao''s eyes and immediately knew better than to push further; so, without waiting for her to counter, he decisively steered the conversation back on track.


    He said, "Secretary Tao, this meeting is to discuss an important matter."


    Caught off guard, Tao Yaoyao''s mouth opened slightly but she did not continue the previous topic, "Oh? What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu gestured toward a chair, taking the lead as if reversing the host-guest roles.


    Sitting down first, he continued, "These past couple of days, I believe Commissioner Jiang has seen my sincerity."


    "So, now it''s time for Commissioner Jiang to show his sincerity."


    With a simple gesture from Qiu Tu and his move to sit down first, he swiftly reclaimed control of the conversation.


    Secretary Tao glanced down at Qiu Tu, noticing she was standing while he was seated¡ªlike she was his subordinate or secretary.


    She chuckled lightly, "Heh..." and, unfazed, also took a seat.


    Then, she turned the tables, "What makes Chief Qiu think Commissioner Jiang needs to demonstrate his sincerity?"


    This remark seemed almost like she was ready to burn bridges after crossing, but Qiu Tu, as if he hadn''t heard, continued, "After what happened a couple of days ago, Jia Shu will no longer be able to serve as Head of the Political Department."


    "At that time, Director Yan is likely to choose from among the two deputy directors to fill the position. And I have my eyes on one of those deputy director positions."


    Pausing, Qiu Tu added, "This will require Commissioner Jiang''s help."


    Tao Yaoyao initially listened somewhat indifferently, but when she heard Qiu Tu wanted to be a deputy director, she was suddenly taken aback, "Deputy director?"


    She recalled Qiu Tu''s record and then said, "If I remember correctly, Chief Qiu, you''ve just been promoted recently."


    "Won''t it be a bit too much pressure to continue rising up now?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t explain; instead, he gave a mysterious smile, "Since I dare to make this request, I must be confident."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao''s brows slightly furrowed, revealing a measure of seriousness and focus.


    Her gaze fell on Qiu Tu, as if she wanted to see through the mystery he was selling...


    But Qiu Tu was now an Old Fox; how could he possibly reveal his emotions?


    Therefore, even after observing him for quite a while, she didn''t get any valuable clues.


    So, she could only subtly remind him, "Chief Qiu, you must realize that once the commissioner helps you at the Municipal Committee..."


    "Then... your relationship with the commissioner would be completely exposed."


    "Let''s not discuss whether your promotion will be successful or not, even if it is, Director Yan will see you as a thorn in his side."


    "At that time, you''ll likely find it very difficult to move within the Investigation Bureau."


    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s words, Qiu Tu smiled. He looked towards Tao Yaoyao''s enchanting eyes, and asked in return, "Is Secretary Tao worried about me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao''s expression froze.


    She was just about to retort.


    But Qiu Tu immediately took back his words, "However, isn''t Commissioner Jiang precisely looking for someone in the Investigation Bureau who can stand up against Director Yan?"


    "By stepping forward now and attracting Director Yan''s attention, I allow Commissioner Jiang to lay out his plans with ease. Isn''t that exactly what Commissioner Jiang desires?"


    "Whether I''m slapped to death by Yan Chen or I manage to secure my footing, it''s a no-lose situation for Commissioner Jiang."


    "As for my own life or death, how does that relate to you, Secretary Tao, or to Commissioner Jiang?"


    "To trade a dispensable piece for massive gains¡ªSecretary Tao, do you still need to inquire further about such a sure-win gamble?" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tao Yaoyao took a deep breath and reassessed Qiu Tu with her narrow eyes.


    Even though Tao Yaoyao always held herself in high regard, she had to admit that Qiu Tu had a unique charm:


    He always managed to grasp the essence of the matter and then employed his unique rhetoric to draw people into the scenario.


    That trait always lent him an irresistible allure, making one unwittingly captivated by his words.


    The problem was, even if one were to replay and analyze his logic afterward, one would find that he wasn''t just playing word games; he was truly stating the facts.


    ¡ªA fact that made one feel they had struck it rich.


    But... how could anyone sacrifice themselves just so others could profit?


    ''So... what does this man rely on to believe he can survive between two giants?''


    ''And why does he think he can vault to higher positions and become a vice director in a short time?''


    Perhaps because there were too many questions in her mind, Tao Yaoyao momentarily felt that Qiu Tu was shrouded in mystery, compelling her to unravel its secrets...


    Qiu Tu, keenly aware of the shift in Tao Yaoyao''s emotions, quietly curved his lips into a smile.


    "Emotional Fraud Manual" 108 Ways to Enhance Affinity No. 2: Women are to be attracted, not chased.


    Strength (wealth and power) coupled with mystery are indeed the most crucial charms for attracting women.


    Once a woman becomes curious about you, chances are she''ll soon fall into your trap...


    At this moment, perhaps sensing something amiss in her demeanor, Tao Yaoyao tensed up inside and started to reflect on her behavior.


    ''Am I being involuntarily drawn in, or have I fallen into a trap?''


    At that thought, Tao Yaoyao cast a thoughtful glance at Qiu Tu, feeling a bit uneasy.


    Her eyes narrowed slightly, she felt that this couldn''t go on.


    ''I must hit back. Otherwise, both my train of thought and the pace of the conversation will be thoroughly in his hands.''


    Thinking this, Tao Yaoyao''s eyes flickered, and suddenly she had an idea in mind.


    In the dark jungle, there are no kings who merely endure; to deter all beasts, one must showcase their might and not be underestimated!


    Therefore, she smiled and extended her hand, then said, "Chief Qiu makes a very good point."


    "Then, I will agree to this matter on behalf of Commissioner Jiang."


    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s words, Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed, his expression immediately turning grave.


    Tao Yaoyao, with her keen senses, caught that flicker of emotion, and with a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth, she reminded him,


    "Indeed, as the confidential secretary, I have the right to decide certain matters on behalf of the commissioner..."


    ------


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 Chapter 231 - 187: Someone Stealing the Credit! (10,000 Characters Appeal for Subscription)

    Hearing Tao Yaoyao''s thinly veiled threat, a hint of amusement flickered through Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Actually, Qiu Tu wasn''t the least surprised by the authority Tao Yaoyao possessed.


    Because, after the first encounter with Tao Yaoyao, Qiu Tu, wanting to know his friend as well as his foe, had already inquired about Tao Yaoyao''s identity and rank from Liu Fuping beforehand.


    According to Liu Fuping, being the confidential secretary to Commissioner Jiang, Tao Yaoyao''s rank was not low, the same as Qiu Tu''s, both were Principal Staff.


    Moreover, as the messenger for Commissioner Jiang to the outside world, her power and influence were exceedingly terrifying, far exceeding that of ordinary division heads like Qiu Tu.


    ¡ª¡ªWhether it was the various departments of City Hall, the various divisions of the Investigation Bureau, or the various units of the military, they all needed to give her face.


    If she called the high-level executives of the three major institutions, those executives would think very carefully about the implications of her words.


    After all, no one knew whether her words would represent Commissioner Jiang''s stance.


    This resulted in her being arguably the most powerful division head in the entire Xinjie City.


    She was acclaimed as the "Second Commissioner" of Xinjie City.


    This was also the reason she was so arrogant and overbearing.


    Because... she represented Commissioner Jiang on the outside.


    However, Tao Yaoyao might not know that... the reason Qiu Tu was teasing her today was precisely because of this identity of hers.


    Qiu Tu, who had once been a confidant of Yan Chen, knew how convenient it was to act under the cover of these big shots.


    He had already lost the halo of Yan Chen''s protection and had to keep a low profile for the time being.


    But if he could take down the woman before him, then through her unique status, he could quietly open up the situation again in the various departments of Xinjie City.


    This was a dark move that couldn''t be spoken to outsiders...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu continued to follow his own plan.


    He "Oh?" made a sound, feigned an expression of surprise, and then said, "I hadn''t realized Commissioner Jiang trusted Secretary Tao so much."


    "It seems I was too hasty just now."


    Seeing Tao Yaoyao''s expression slightly soften, Qiu Tu swiftly changed his tone, "However... I think Secretary Tao should still consult with Commissioner Jiang about this matter."


    "After all, this is a very important issue. If you overstep and agree on behalf of Commissioner Jiang and then there''s a problem, you won''t be able to bear the responsibility."


    "You!" Tao Yaoyao truly didn''t expect that, after revealing her "status," Qiu Tu would still dare to be so confrontational with her.


    No, it wasn''t confrontation, it was straightforward sarcastic ridicule of her pretentious behavior and overstepping her authority.


    This was a kind of grievance she had never experienced since coming to Xinjie City and becoming the confidential secretary to Commissioner Jiang.


    Thinking this, her eyes narrowed, and a dangerous glint flickered in her elongated eyes.


    But Qiu Tu acted as if he hadn''t noticed at all, looking at her calmly, without giving in.


    Truth be told, it was only because Tao Yaoyao lacked propriety as a host and didn''t pour a cup of tea for Qiu Tu; otherwise, he would have definitely taken a couple of sips just to infuriate her. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The atmosphere in the room quieted down for a moment.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds...


    Just as Qiu Tu began to worry he''d taken it too far, Tao Yaoyao''s face suddenly blossomed into a dangerous smile.


    Her upward-curved eyeliner seemed to dance as she reached into the deep cleavage at her chest to pull out a small, specially made communicator and then placed it suggestively in front of Qiu Tu...


    "Sure. Since Chief Qiu has requested it, I will certainly report to Commissioner Jiang."


    "When Commissioner Jiang makes a decision, I will take the initiative to contact you."


    As she said this, she paused, smiling, "However... I cannot guarantee when Commissioner Jiang will have the time to hear my report about this matter."


    Qiu Tu had already anticipated Tao Yaoyao''s direction of counter-attack, so he indifferently picked up the communicator from the table.


    The communicator was warm to the touch, as if carrying Tao Yaoyao''s body heat.


    Qiu Tu brought it to his nose and smelled it, detecting a faint scent of milk.


    The smile on Qiu Tu''s face deepened, "No problem. If Commissioner Jiang is not available, I will go to find him in person."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ambiguous yet measured response, Tao Yaoyao''s slanted eyes narrowed.


    She snorted lightly and then got up and left.


    The sound of her high heels striking the floor was like hasty drumbeats, each step revealing the displeasure of its owner.


    But to Qiu Tu, it seemed just right.


    The "Emotional Fraud Manual" outlines thirty-six strategies for dealing with women: [Stand Out From the Crowd].


    If a woman is naive, then take her to experience the world. If a woman has rich experience, then offer her the prosaic life.


    What a woman is accustomed to, she won''t find precious. It''s only when you present her with something she has never or seldom experienced that you will appear unique.


    So, when encountering a beauty, one must not become a fawning admirer; there are too many admirers around her already.


    And when meeting a woman like Tao Yaoyao, who isn''t short of flatterers, one must not indulge her...


    Of course, the premise is not to overdo it.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu silently recalled Tao Yaoyao''s personality traits from what he learned from Liu Fuping, as well as her expressions just now, and felt... there probably wouldn''t be a problem.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu calmly took out the specially made communicator Tao Yaoyao had given him.


    Turning it on, he checked it. Inside, there was just one number. It should be Tao Yaoyao''s.


    Qiu Tu then took out another two communicators and that ancient coin from his pocket.


    One man, four communication devices; it was quite something. Add to that his relationships with Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping...

 Chapter 232 - 187: Someone Stealing the Credit! (10,000 Characters Appeal for Subscription)_2

    ''Six-sided spy?''


    ''Do I have a bit too many identities?''


    After silently mocking himself in his heart, Qiu Tu packed up the pile of communicators, stepped out of the residential house, got into his car, and drove to the Investigation Bureau''s office building.


    Upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau''s office building, Qiu Tu noticed many strange looks directed at him had increased.


    Qiu Tu found it a bit odd, but he didn''t pay it any mind¡ªafter all, once he returned to the investigative team, someone would naturally tell him the reason.


    As expected, once he got to the investigative team''s office, Cao Dabiao pulled Qiu Tu aside with an air of mystery and whispered, "Brother Tu, let me tell you. The candidate for the new Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau has already been decided."


    Qiu Tu was startled for a second, somewhat surprised, "That fast?"


    Cao Dabiao hurriedly nodded, "Exactly what I''m saying!"


    After that, he threw a new question at Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu, do you know who the new Deputy Division Chief candidate is?"


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "Who is it?"


    Cao Dabiao said with an air of mystery, "Your former supervisor, the Interrogation Section Chief, Zheng Tao."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu fell into thought and soon felt it wasn''t surprising anymore.


    Zheng Tao was always a confidant of Yan Chen, constantly buttering up the Bureau Chief with sycophantic praise.


    Add to that his actual ability to get things done; when the Public Security Bureau ended work at 6 pm, he could make the people in the Interrogation Section work until midnight.


    While this made the agents in the Interrogation Section miserable, it also earned him ample political achievements.


    So, making him take over Qiu Tu''s promotion slot was actually reasonable and justifiable.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then said with a smile, "That''s pretty good. Looks like I should congratulate my old boss."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao became a little anxious and said, "Brother Tu... you still don''t understand."


    "For Zheng Tao to confirm his position within just one day and then immediately take office clearly exceeds common sense."


    "The Organizational Department must have received directives from the Bureau Chief, exercising special measures for special cases."


    "So, he must be targeting you!"


    Saying this, Cao Dabiao sneakily looked around, made sure no one was paying attention, and then continued in a lower voice, "And think about it, Brother Tu."


    "Why did the Bureau Chief appoint Zheng Tao as the Deputy Division Chief this time?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, prompting further, "Why?"


    Cao Dabiao lowered his voice and said, "Because he was once your supervisor. He naturally has a psychological advantage and can handle you more easily."


    "Plus, some members of the investigative team are from the Interrogation Section. They are your subordinates, but they were also subordinates to Zheng Tao."


    "If Zheng Tao calls them over for a bit of brainwashing, there''s no telling if some of them might waver in their loyalty."


    Qiu Tu looked at Cao Dabiao with a hint of surprise, not expecting Cao Dabiao to also have such insights.


    So, he encouraged Cao Dabiao by patting his shoulder, "You''ve thought of so much, showing you''ve indeed made some progress recently."


    After that, Qiu Tu reassured him, "But... don''t worry. I have a handle on this situation."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised or panicked by his words, Cao Dabiao instantly knew that Qiu Tu probably had figured everything out the moment he received the news.


    He also felt relieved.


    Then he asked, "So, Chief, what do we do next?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Next, we''re going to interrogate Jia Wei."


    ```


    "Interrogate Jia Wei?" Cao Dabiao looked surprised. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He whispered persuasively, "Chief, Jia Wei really is a tough nut to crack."


    "Besides, he''s extremely foul-mouthed, spewing all sorts of insults."


    "Otherwise... maybe this interrogation task should be left to us."


    Qiu Tu patted Cao Dabiao on the shoulder and said, "Don''t worry. My interrogation methods are different from yours."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu clapped his hands and then addressed the other confidants in the office who were busy at work, "Everyone, stop what you''re doing for a moment."


    "Our case is nearing the end."


    "Both suspects have been caught, one of whom has confessed and provided relevant clues and evidence."


    At this point, Qiu Tu glanced at Chen Feng, then said, "Yesterday, Agent Chen Feng followed the suspect''s clues and evidence and obtained the relevant proof."


    "So, today, we just need to finish recording the last suspect''s statement, and the entire case will be satisfactorily closed."


    "Let''s all push a bit harder today."


    "Once we close the case tomorrow, I''ll give everyone a few days of paid leave!"


    "Hooray! ©d(??¨Œ?)¥Î" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Spiral-Up Expert Song Qing was the first to jump up and cheer in support.


    The other agents also echoed with smiles.


    No one dislikes a holiday. If you could get paid without working, probably 99% of people would choose to rest at home.


    Just like that, after boosting morale, Qiu Tu led his confidants to the ninth floor of the Political Department''s Guard Room in a grand manner.


    Since Wang Xi and Jia Wei both possess Catastrophe Power, the Public Security Bureau didn''t have an area suitable for detaining such prisoners, so they had to be temporarily held in the Political Department''s Guard Room.


    However, upon arriving at the Political Department''s Guard Room, something strange happened¡ªJia Wei had vanished.


    "What in the world is going on! Where has our prisoner gone?!"


    Qiu Tu was now quite formidable himself, so when he discovered that Jia Wei was not in his holding cell, Cao Dabiao, without waiting for Qiu Tu to take action, took it upon himself to confront the agent in charge of the Guard Room directly, shouldering his one-star rank and demanding answers.


    Facing Cao Dabiao''s questioning, the agent''s face was full of embarrassment and difficulty.


    He glanced at the dozens of agents behind Qiu Tu, then at Qiu Tu, who stood out like a star among them, his face filled with hesitation.


    After a moment, he let out a deep sigh, then bypassed Cao Dabiao, and rushed over to Qiu Tu, saying quietly, "Chief... I can tell you where the prisoner has gone. But... you mustn''t say that it was me who told you."


    Upon hearing the agent''s words, Qiu Tu''s face broke into a smile. He hooked his arm around the agent''s neck, "I remember you. You''re Wang Dawei, right?"


    "When I came to release Section Chief Bai, it was you who opened the door for me."


    At his name being correctly called out by Qiu Tu, Wang Dawei''s face lit up with surprise and delight.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued smiling and said, "Don''t worry, I''m a man of my word. If I promised not to tell, I definitely won''t."


    "So, spill it, what''s really going on."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Wang Dawei finally showed no more signs of hesitation. Clenching his teeth and stamping his foot, he whispered to Qiu Tu, "Chief, the truth is... someone wants to steal your credit."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said "Oh?" with interest, his eyes flickering as he guessed who it might be, "Chief Zheng? Oh, no... it should be Director Zheng?"


    ------


    Three chapters of 10,000 words, haha. First two chapters, 7k words. Update for the third chapter at 20:00.


    Double Monthly Tickets at month''s end, asking for Monthly Tickets!


    ```

 Chapter 233 - 188: Straightforward Confrontation! (10,000-word plea for Monthly Tickets!)

    ```


    Seeing Qiu Tu guess who was trying to steal the credit, Wang Dawei''s eyes revealed a trace of surprise, before he hastily nodded in agreement.


    After nodding, he cautiously said, "Commander. Actually, after this morning''s promotion orders came down, Deputy Director Zheng brought people over to the Guard Room."


    "He used his position as the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau as justification to try to take away the prisoner."


    "At the time, I actually didn''t want to agree. After all... the rule of the Political Department is whoever captures the person, gets to interrogate them."


    "This person was captured by you, and it should rightfully be you who deals with it." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But he claimed that as the new Deputy Division Chief taking over Director Qin''s duties, he also received the jurisdiction of Deputy Director Qin."


    "And Deputy Director Qin''s jurisdiction, apart from a few Public Security Offices, the most important was the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case''."


    "So, he had the authority to take over and investigate this case."


    Wang Dawei said with disdain, "Although he spoke of justice, we all know, he was just here to claim the credit!"


    "The pharmacy robbery case is such a big case with substantial credit due. You captured the suspects, and the case was mostly cracked."


    "Yet he suddenly barges in to conduct a surprise interrogation, which is absolutely disgraceful."


    Wang Dawei paused, then added jokingly, "But... since he indeed has the authority, and also... is our superior."


    "We simply didn''t dare to refuse, so we had to open the door for him and hand over the prisoner."


    Wang Dawei looked at Qiu Tu with an embarrassed expression, "Commander, we were compelled to do this, please don''t blame us."


    People in the workplace are often powerless to act independently.


    Qiu Tu could empathize with that feeling, so he firmly patted Wang Dawei on the shoulder twice and said, "Rest assured, you are not at fault in this matter."


    He continued, "In fact, I should thank you for providing us with such important intelligence."


    After finishing, he looked Wang Dawei up and down, then said, "I think you''re quite capable, and I''ll arrange to have you transferred to my side when I have the time."


    Wang Dawei''s reason for revealing the news to Qiu Tu was precisely to align himself with Qiu Tu. Now, having received the promise, his face lit up with surprise.


    He quickly saluted Qiu Tu excitedly, "Thank you, Commander!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu once again smiled and patted his shoulder. Then he turned to his confidant subordinates and said, "Well, it seems our newly appointed Deputy Division Chief is very interested in our case."


    "Let''s go see his interrogation together."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu took the lead towards the Interrogation Room.


    Even the least familiar among Qiu Tu''s followers, Ding Xiaoqi, showed a loyalty score as high as 70 points.


    So, even knowing that they would have to confront their former/current boss, they unhesitatingly followed behind Qiu Tu, marching majestically towards the Interrogation Section.


    Witnessing this scene, Wang Dawei was filled with envy: Who wouldn''t want to be part of a cohesive group in these troubled times?


    Not to mention him, but many throughout the Investigation Bureau actually wished to join Qiu Tu''s little group. It was just that they had no opportunity to do so...


    While Wang Dawei was envying them, Qiu Tu and his confidants arrived at the Interrogation Section.


    On the way, Liu Fuping seized the opportunity to quietly come over to Qiu Tu and said in a low voice, "Zheng Tao is not a simple character."


    "If it wasn''t sanctioned from above, he wouldn''t be so brazen in stealing your credit."


    Qiu Tu smiled at this and said, "Definitely."


    He pointed to the ceiling, "You don''t even need to think about it, it must be the instructions or hints of that person."


    "His move is indeed a good one."


    "After all, the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' is a major case. If I alone lead the team to solve the case, then both publicly and privately, he would have to commend me at least."


    "But now by parachuting Zheng Tao in, taking over the case, and conducting an interrogation to obtain the other half of the testimony, the credit for the case gets entirely split."


    "Moreover, Zheng Tao is the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau, ranked higher than me. Later on, they could easily manipulate the narrative to say it was Zheng Tao who led us in solving this case."


    "By then, the credit for this case will no longer belong to us."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping nodded in agreement with a serious expression, "That''s exactly right."


    "So... what should we do?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "What to do? Nothing."


    Sensing Liu Fuping''s puzzled gaze, Qiu Tu reminded her, "The entire premise of Yan Chen''s plan is... that Zheng Tao really can intervene in this case and indeed can obtain something from the interrogation."


    With a mysterious smile, Qiu Tu added, "But... can he really get something out of it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping looked surprised, clearly not understanding where Qiu Tu''s confidence came from.


    She considered herself a favorite student of Jia Shu, whereas Zheng Tao was Jia Shu''s direct disciple.


    With interrogation skills taught by Jia Shu, Zheng Tao was known as the strongest interrogator in the Interrogation Section.


    No prisoner examined by him had ever managed not to spill the beans.


    Was Qiu Tu really confident that Jia Wei could withstand Zheng Tao''s interrogation?


    Furthermore... if Jia Wei could indeed withstand Zheng Tao''s interrogation, wouldn''t his own group be even less able to get anything out of Jia Wei?


    ```


    With this question in mind, Liu Fuping followed Qiu Tu, leading a formidable procession of troops to the Interrogation Section.


    Upon arriving at the Interrogation Section, a brief inquiry made everyone aware of the interrogation room Zheng Tao had used that day.


    Thus, Qiu Tu once again led all his confidants straight to that particular interrogation room.


    At this moment, the agents from the Interrogation Section and other departments of the Political Department, sensing something amiss from Qiu Tu''s "vengeance-seeking" momentum, realized that a significant scoop was brewing.


    Consequently, they called upon friends and colleagues to follow, craning their necks in an attempt to witness a potential clash.


    So by the time Qiu Tu arrived at the door of the interrogation room, he was already followed by a dense crowd.


    This sight startled Zheng Tao''s few confidants standing guard outside into shivering, nearly drawing their guns.


    It was Cao Dabiao''s sharp eyes; he lunged forward and delivered a resounding slap!


    "Have you lost your minds!"


    "Drawing guns against officers inside the Political Department!"


    "Are you trying to revolt!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s thunderous reprimand, Zheng Tao''s confidants snapped out of it, turned ashen, and hurried to salute Qiu Tu, "Chief!"


    Qiu Tu snorted coldly, his face expressionless as he walked past them.


    They intended to step forward and obstruct him, trying to buy Zheng Tao some time.


    But by then, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian, and other confidants of Qiu Tu had already stepped forward, pushing them to the sides.


    In this manner, Qiu Tu led his large entourage unimpeded into Zheng Tao''s interrogation room!


    Kicking open the door, the sight that met Qiu Tu''s eyes was that of Jia Wei, bound to the interrogation table, who was furiously cursing Zheng Tao''s ancestors.


    From Zheng Tao''s livid face, Jia Wei appeared to have been cursing him for more than just a minute or two, likely nonstop since being dragged into the interrogation room.


    At that moment, Zheng Tao was also startled by the loud crash of the door slamming against the wall.


    He slowly turned around, his face grim as he looked toward the door.


    On seeing that it was Qiu Tu standing at the doorway with his men, his already dark expression grew even colder.


    He shouted sternly, "Chief Qiu! May I ask why you are barging into my interrogation room!"


    Qiu Tu, by now bold enough to even strike Yan Chen, was certainly not afraid of Zheng Tao.


    Back when he was under Zheng Tao, he had never feared him. Now that there was no longer a superior-subordinate relationship, he feared him even less.


    So he retorted uncompromisingly, "Director Zheng, that''s a question I should be asking you! Without my permission and without the permission of the investigation team, you interrogated a suspect we had worked hard to capture. Don''t you think you owe us an explanation!"


    Zheng Tao, daring to act in such a manner, must have had his defense planned in advance, and he solemnly stated, "I am now officially the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau."


    "The ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' is my primary responsibility! What issue lies in my interrogating a criminal to advance the case progress?"


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao argued back and forth, the onlooking agents outside were almost clear on the sequence of events.


    They exchanged glances, sensing the aroma of a "bombshell" scoop.


    Anyone in the Political Department was the creme de la creme of the Investigation Bureau, accustomed to all sorts of trickery.


    So even though Zheng Tao''s words were righteous sounding, they all knew he had overstepped his bounds and was trying to steal the credit.


    And Qiu Tu, notorious for being a tough nut to crack within the Investigation Bureau, would certainly not hand over his glory to someone else.


    Between the two, one was a newly promoted Deputy Division Chief with the vague support of higher-ups behind him.


    The other was the most rapidly promoted person in the Investigation Bureau in recent months. Though he had recently fallen out with the higher-ups, it seemed he had another card up his sleeve.


    Hence, when it came down to it, neither would back down in this confrontation!


    ''This will be quite a show,'' they thought.


    And while these agents were lost in contemplation, Qiu Tu indeed made no concessions.


    He bluntly stated, "Fine. Since Director Zheng wants to talk about rules, then let me ask him using these same rules!"


    "Haven''t you already left the Political Department and taken up the position of Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau?"


    "Isn''t the ''8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case'' an investigation that the Public Security Bureau requested assistance with from the Political Department?"


    "According to the rules for ''assistance in investigations,'' shouldn''t I, the officer from the Political Department who was requested for the investigation, be the one in full charge of the case?"


    Qiu Tu paused slightly, "Even if we step back ten thousand steps. If your Public Security Bureau now feels confident enough to investigate on its own."


    "Shouldn''t there be a handover with me before you start the investigation?!"


    "Surreptitiously taking away the suspect for private interrogation, what''s the meaning of this!"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned dark, "Such behavior even makes me suspect that you... might be in cahoots with the criminals."


    ------


    3 chapters, 10k words, haha. First 2 chapters, 7k words. Third chapter updated at 20:00.


    Double Monthly Tickets at the end of the month, asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 235 - 190

    Hearing Chen Feng''s words, Ding Xiaoliu quickly saluted again, "Yes!"


    Then he turned around and left to go "give the good news" on the second floor.


    And with his departure, very soon the entire Investigation Bureau knew that Zheng Tao had not obtained any results from the second hour of interrogation!


    This actually didn''t catch anyone''s attention.


    After all... two hours and one hour were more or less the same. Both were just starting to apply some interrogation methods, so it was normal not to have results yet.


    And the attitudes of some big shots who were following the progress of this matter were similar...


    Organizational Department, Director''s Office.


    After listening to his subordinate''s report, one of the nine high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau, Director of the Organizational Department Shi Youxin, chuckled and nodded.


    Shi Youxin was a man in his forties.


    He had been Yan Chen''s old colleague at the Military Officers'' Academy, and later, when Yan Chen became successful, he resigned to join Yan Chen and had been working under him ever since, belonging to one of Yan Chen''s important confidants and a key helper in Yan Chen''s control of the personnel power of the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Zheng Tao''s promotion included his contributions.


    Therefore, today, as soon as Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao started their conflict, he ordered someone to pay close attention to it.


    Knowing that Zheng Tao did not come out from the interrogation room during the second hour, he smiled, picked up his tea cup steeped with goji berries and deer antler, took a sip, and then said indifferently,


    "Don''t worry... Zheng Tao''s abilities are widely recognized."


    "In the entire Investigation Bureau, aside from Jia Shu, his interrogation techniques are the most brilliant."


    "If even he can''t break through this case, then probably no one can."


    "And..." As he said this, Shi Youxin glanced at the clock, "it''s only 11 o''clock now. There are still 7 hours until 6 pm."


    "Do you know what 7 hours mean to an interrogation expert?"


    "It means he can torture a suspect to the point where they''ll even disclose the color of their wife''s underwear!"


    While talking, Shi Youxin put a few goji berries into his mouth and concluded, "Seven hours, how can Zheng Tao lose?"


    "This time, Qiu Tu has really underestimated the heroes of the world."


    .....


    Special Service Department. Director''s Office.


    The man who had once helped Qiu Tu, one of the nine high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau, the Director of the Special Service Department Lin Ting.


    Facing his subordinate''s report, he shook his head with a smile, "I used to think Qiu Tu was a very smart person."


    "But unexpectedly, this time he''s become so muddleheaded."


    "So, rest assured. The advantage is with us."


    ....


    Among these high-level officials, the only different attitude might be Yan Chen''s...


    Investigation Bureau Chief''s Office.


    Yan Chen sat in his dimly-lit office, smoking and signing documents, while listening to Ji Chen''s report.


    Ji Chen obviously took pleasure in others'' misfortune, his voice buoyant and cheerful during the report.


    But what he didn''t realize was that as his report went on, the expression on Yan Chen''s face became less and less.


    Soon, after Ji Chen finished reporting, Yan Chen slowly put down his pen.


    He looked at Ji Chen with a dark expression and then said slowly, "Ji Chen, do you think Qiu Tu will lose this bet?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen was clearly startled. Then he replied hesitantly, "But... Director Zheng is a renowned interrogation expert."


    "A 9-hour interrogation session, it''s impossible to fail."


    Yan Chen narrowed his eyes and took a drag of his cigarette, then seriously countered, "Since even you know such a simple truth, why wouldn''t Qiu Tu know it?"


    Yan Chen''s words were perhaps too direct, and Ji Chen''s face turned red and then pale.


    After all, Yan Chen was all but pointing at his nose and scolding him for being inferior to Qiu Tu.


    But faced with Yan Chen, Ji Chen didn''t dare to retort, so he could only quickly suppress his smile and lower his voice to admit his error, "The Bureau Chief is correct."


    "Hmph." Yan Chen snorted heavily through his nose and then judged, "Qiu Tu is not someone who loses his head easily. Since he dares to make this bet, it means there must be an inside story."


    "Zheng Tao has been calculated by him."


    As he said this, he waved his hand somewhat listlessly, "Enough. His position has already been bet."


    "Even if Zheng Tao loses face again, that position cannot be ceded."


    "You may leave. Report back when there''s news."


    Having finished speaking, he picked up his pen and started signing documents again.


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Ji Chen quickly saluted and then turned to leave Yan Chen''s office.


    However, from the disgruntled look on his face as he turned his back to Yan Chen, it was clear he didn''t agree with Yan Chen''s points of view...


    ...


    12 o''clock, the third hour after the bet was set.


    Since the interrogation room had not opened, it was evident that Zheng Tao had not penetrated Jia Wei''s psychological defense.


    1 pm, the fourth hour after the bet was set.


    Zheng Tao and his team hadn''t even come out for lunch, but were racing against the clock to conduct the interrogation.


    However... despite their efforts, it was clear that progress was limited. The door of the interrogation room remained closed.


    2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm.


    At this point, 7 hours had passed since the bet was established. Yet, there was still no sign of the interrogation room''s door opening.


    Instead, some agents from the Interrogation Section had seemingly received some orders and brought in more drugs and interrogation tools.


    However, it was clear that these drugs and interrogation tools were not very effective. Jia Wei still showed no sign of speaking.


    By this time, the mood within the entire Investigation Bureau had finally begun to shift.


    Those who had been supporting Zheng Tao were now a bit unsure.


    After all, 7 hours was a long time for an interrogation that could use various drugs and punishment tools.


    By this point, almost all the drugs that could be used had been exhausted, and whatever punishments could have been applied should have already been used up.


    Now, the agents who were just watching, worried not about whether the interrogation had results, but... that the important prisoner wouldn''t be tortured to death.


    At this time, the entire Investigation Bureau''s attitude toward the bet had begun to shift.


    The detectives who originally supported Zheng Tao were now changing sides, starting to back Qiu Tu instead.


    Only a small group still staunchly believed in Zheng Tao''s ability and continued to "persevere."


    The perception of Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao among the detectives had undergone a complete 180-degree turn.


    Those who had previously mocked Qiu Tu for being "too full of himself" were now ridiculing Zheng Tao for "trying to steal credit," and failing at that.


    However, for the lower-ranked detectives, this bet might have just been a pastime for conversation over tea and meals.


    But for the section chiefs and division chiefs who knew more of the inside story, the bet held an entirely different meaning.


    ¡ªIf they had doubted before whether this bet was a trap, by now, they held no such doubts.


    Taking into account Qiu Tu''s various past deeds, they knew he must have calculated everything before daring to publicly bet against Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao was driven into a corner and had no choice but to accept the wager. Now it seemed highly likely that he would face a massive loss of face before the entire Bureau.


    In the future, when people talked about Zheng Tao, they would probably not remember his label as an interrogation expert but only the incident of his failed attempt to steal credit.


    Such a reputation, that of someone with "more ambition than skill," would follow him for many years.


    This incident would have a huge impact both on his credibility among his subordinates and his image among those above him.


    It could be said that his future prospects were completely ruined!


    And with this kind of downfall for Zheng Tao, Qiu Tu was warning all those mid-levels who schemed against him or sought to use him to curry favor with the higher-ups¡ªthat it was fine to try their luck with him, but they should be prepared to be crushed in the process!


    This realization made many section chiefs and division chiefs shiver, prompting them to reconsider their relationship with Qiu Tu...


    As such, time ticked by, second by second.


    Soon, it was 5 p.m.


    This time, Qiu Tu didn''t even use Ding Xiaoliu to report. He arrived at the interrogation room''s entrance with his confidants in tow, waiting patiently.


    This assertive move also attracted a lot of detectives to gather around and watch.


    Everyone was waiting for the result of the final hour, eager to see who would win the bet!


    5:10 p.m.; 5:20 p.m.; ...; 5:40 p.m.; 5:50 p.m....


    When the seconds crawled towards 6 p.m.


    More and more detectives had gathered outside the interrogation room.


    At this moment, two of Zheng Tao''s confidants at the door were sweating profusely.


    The tension of the approaching deadline made them almost afraid to breathe. Several times they looked back at the interrogation room, hoping for a miracle in the last 10 minutes.


    But how could miracles happen so easily? If they did, they wouldn''t be miracles!


    So, as the minute hand slowly moved to the "6," the interrogation room''s door remained unopened.


    By then, the onlookers outside were beginning to whisper among themselves.


    Clearly, everyone knew that the dust had settled on the bet: Zheng Tao, a master of interrogation, had used every trick in the book and yet had failed to extract the truth of the case from the suspect''s mouth in nine hours.


    In addition to their shock, people also began to ponder why such a thing had happened.


    Was it Zheng Tao''s lack of ability?


    Was there more to the case than met the eye?


    Or... was Zheng Tao truly an accomplice of the suspect?


    Just as everyone was busy guessing, the door of the interrogation room slowly opened.


    Zheng Tao, covered in blood, walked out looking utterly defeated.


    In the hours that had passed, he had clearly been under tremendous pressure, his hair a mess and his eyes bloodshot.


    If one didn''t know better, one might have thought he had stayed up for two or three nights straight.


    And coupled with his blood-stained clothes and hands, it was clear that he had tried all possible means in those nine hours.


    He had truly and utterly lost the bet!


    Witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu tilted his head to glance inside the interrogation room.


    There, Jia Wei had been tortured almost beyond human recognition, barely an inch of his body left unharmed.


    But perhaps it was the hard fate of a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened that even now, he could still smile with a "heh heh heh" and hurl insults at all the female relatives in Zheng Tao''s family.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu finally ceased to hold back his edge and began to kick a man when he was down!


    "Heh heh, is this the expert interrogator from the Political Department, the former head of the Interrogation Section?"


    "You''ve really disgraced our Political Department!"


    "I practically fed you the credit on a silver platter, and you couldn''t take it. Are you really so useless, or is it... that you''re indeed utterly useless!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s unapologetic mockery, Zheng Tao''s fists tightened.


    He wanted to retort, but the cruel reality of victory and defeat silenced him. He, a man who had lost a bet, had no face to talk back to Qiu Tu.


    So he could only glower and say in a low voice, "You won."


    "The criminal is yours, I won''t interfere with the case anymore."


    As Zheng Tao admitted his defeat, the room fell silent. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Everyone knew that Zheng Tao had completely fallen.


    Just promoted to Deputy Division Chief, a position at the peak of his influence and prestige, he ended up trying to take credit at the behest of hidden players.


    If he had succeeded, it would have been a different story. Now, having failed and publicly humiliated by Qiu Tu, he had become a laughingstock.


    For a moment, the watching detectives even felt a twinge of pity: who would have thought that the once envied Zheng Tao would be trampled into the dirt in just a few hours, reduced to a stray dog?


    Just when the detectives were reflecting on the bet, Qiu Tu spoke up again.


    "Director Zheng, please wait a moment."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao stopped and turned back with a puzzled look.


    Then he saw Qiu Tu looking at him with a radiant smile.


    But that smile seemed so bloodthirsty, no matter how one looked at it!


    It was like the smile of a giant beast about to devour its prey.


    -------


    Three chapters totaling 10,000 words, haha. First, I''ll release 7,000 words in two chapters, and one more chapter at 20:00. It''s the last day of the month, so I''m asking for the Monthly Tickets! They''ll expire if you don''t use them, you know.

 Chapter 237 - 192: The Truth Behind Song Qings Interrogation! (10k words for Monthly Tickets!)

    After transcribing the report, Qiu Tu glanced at the time.


    It was already 8 PM.


    Although he said Zheng Tao had delayed his departure from work to embarrass him, he had to admit that because of Zheng Tao, he really did end up working two extra hours.


    Fortunately... the hours he slacked off during the day had just been made up for.


    ''So... it wasn''t a loss?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked out at the dark night sky, preparing to grab something to eat and then submit the report.


    At that moment, however...


    Suddenly, someone knocked on the office door with a "thud thud thud."


    The visitor was clearly an insider, who, after knocking a few times, naturally pushed the door open.


    Qiu Tu looked up and then discovered Liu Fuping walking in with her graceful strides.


    She obviously had already been home because she had changed into casual clothes: a white blouse, black stockings, and a black skirt.


    Feeling that such attire might not be sufficiently formal for the Investigation Bureau, she had also put on a black uniform from the Political Department.


    But she might not have known that the black Political Department uniform, combined with the black stockings wrapped around her long legs, added a different kind of charm to her appearance...


    And with the bulging chest under her uniform, her allure was truly irresistible.


    "Qiu Tu, you haven''t had dinner yet, right?"


    Liu Fuping raised her hand to show the aluminum lunch boxes she was carrying and gave a gentle smile, "I made you something to eat."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up; he felt the young woman was really considerate.


    So he put away the report, set it aside, and patted the table, "Set it down."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Liu Fuping bent over, placed her hefty bosom on the table, then propped up her chin with her hand, and smilingly gazed at Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Damn, this woman really knows how to do it!


    Qiu Tu licked his lips and then reached out to grab the food, ready to dive in right away.


    But Liu Fuping suddenly rose up briskly and dodged with a giggle.


    "Pop." She set the lunch boxes on the table, her beautiful eyes now brimming with laughter like a rainbow.


    "Enough playing around, let''s eat first."


    Qiu Tu stroked his chin as he observed Liu Fuping and teased, "Sister Liu, with moves like that, do you think I can still focus on eating my dinner?" S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Liu Fuping threw a coquettish glance at Qiu Tu, "If you can''t eat, what else would you like to eat?"


    Qiu Tu scanned Liu Fuping''s bulging chest with a knowing smile.


    Liu Fuping''s voice took on a playful tone, as if cajoling a child, "Behave. After dinner, you''ll get everything."


    Qiu Tu looked at her intently for a moment, but ultimately decided to eat first.


    After all, one needed to be well-fed to have the energy for the tasks ahead.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu opened the lunch boxes, which contained two dishes and a portion of rice.


    Both the appearance and the taste were good.


    As he ate, Qiu Tu also praised her cooking, "Every time I eat Sister Liu''s cooking, I feel very fortunate."


    "I wonder who will be lucky enough to marry Sister Liu in the future."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s playful words, Liu Fuping laughed so hard that her chest jiggled.


    After the laughter, she leaned in close to Qiu Tu and whispered, "I don''t need you to marry me, just tell me how you managed to make Little Qing an interrogation expert, will you?"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu''s action of picking up food paused briefly, and then he toned down his smile, looking up at her.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s misunderstanding, Liu Fuping quickly explained, "Don''t get me wrong. It''s not that Commissioner Jiang or Director Liu asked me to inquire."


    "It''s just my own simple curiosity."


    She said with a laugh, "You wouldn''t know, but ever since the interrogation of Jia Wei, Little Qing''s tail has almost been wagging."


    "She even stopped leaving work early as she used to but instead started strutting around the entrances of the Political Department with hands behind her back, enjoying everyone''s envious glances."


    "We asked her quietly how she did the interrogation, what secrets you told her."


    "But she holds her head high and is too full of herself to say anything."


    At the end of her account, Liu Fuping was laughing with exasperation.


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu slowly lowered his head and continued with his meal.


    Sensing Qiu Tu''s contemplation, Liu Fuping felt somewhat uncertain inside, wondering if she had somehow touched a sensitive topic.


    After some consideration, she then spoke softly, "Does it have something to do with your Cataclysmic ability?"


    "If that''s the case, then pretend I didn''t ask."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and replied, "It has nothing to do with the Cataclysmic ability. But... indeed, it''s even more sensitive than that."


    He said, "Since you''ve asked, I won''t keep it from you."


    "In a moment, come with me to see Jia Wei. This matter is related to you anyway."


    "Me?" Liu Fuping blinked her attractive eyes, looking a bit puzzled.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t explain any further; instead, he began to gobble up his meal insanely.


    By the time he was "gulping" down his last mouthful and had just put down his chopsticks, Liu Fuping had already handed him a glass of water.


    Qiu Tu glanced at her, picked up the water, and took a sip.


    As he put down the glass, a tender, boneless hand reached out to his lips with a tissue, considerately wiping his mouth.


    ''This is a married woman for sure!''


    ''Give her butt a pat, and she knows whether to kneel or to lie down.''


    After a moment of reflection, Qiu Tu stood up from his chair and then said, "Alright! Let''s go! Let''s meet Jia Wei and clear up the doubts in your mind!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu took the lead and headed outside the office.


    Seeing this, Liu Fuping followed with a smile in her eyes.


    Soon, the two arrived at the Guard Room on the ninth floor.


    It was still Wang Dawei on duty tonight, one of their own, so after Qiu Tu greeted him, he brought Jia Wei out.


    After taking Jia Wei to a separate interrogation room, Qiu Tu had Liu Fuping close the door, then said, "This is a secret interrogation, it won''t be recorded in the archives."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Jia Wei, already tormented by Zheng Tao beyond recognition, grinned and bared his teeth in a laugh.


    He raised his head from his disheveled hair, his swollen eyes giving Liu Fuping a sinister look, and then said, "It seems she is a confidant you trust."


    Qiu Tu shrugged his shoulders, saying noncommittally, "Sort of."


    Jia Wei''s face was full of mockery, "Then does she know about your betrayal of humanity and your allegiance to ''God''?"


    Upon hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Fuping was suddenly startled, then looked incredulously at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu, however, nonchalantly waved his hand and said, "Don''t talk nonsense."


    "I''ve just had some communication with Her Highness Larilo." (Chapter 184)


    Seeing Liu Fuping''s continued shock, Qiu Tu then sat in a chair, pointed towards Jia Wei, and methodically introduced him, "Jia Wei, the brother of Jia Shu, a follower of the Evil God Larilo."


    "Hmm... he is also the murderer that Director Liu has been searching for for many years."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping''s eyes widened sharply, and then she turned towards Jia Wei.


    Because Qiu Tu hadn''t shared the information with Liu Fuping previously, she did not know that Jia Wei was indeed the murderer in that past case.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu reminded her, "His Cataclysmic ability, you should have known when interrogating Wang Xi, relates to Devouring and Puppetry."


    "But what you don''t know is... the body before us is not his True Body, but a Puppet."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reminder, Liu Fuping indeed cooled off and gradually calmed down.


    Qiu Tu continued, "That''s also why Zheng Tao got no results even after a whole day of interrogation."


    "He is a Puppet controlled by the True Body, albeit with certain self-consciousness, but... If the True Body doesn''t allow him to reveal the secrets, he definitely won''t."


    "Even under a hundred tortures or a hundred doses of Potion, he wouldn''t speak."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping roughly guessed the whole truth behind the interrogation.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and added, "So... the reason you burst into the interrogation room was to convey a message to him."


    "To let him know that you and Zheng Tao are adversaries. Your bet with Zheng Tao was also to tell him, in fact, to tell him the time to come and ''rescue'' him."


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Exactly."


    "I had previously warned Zheng Tao: to alert a prisoner and communicate messages does not require direct conversation."


    "A simple gesture, a simple secret code. Even just appearing before someone can convey enough information." (Chapter 189)


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping continued, "And the reason Little Qing managed to pry open his mouth and get a confession... it actually didn''t matter what she did, it was simply because... she was chosen by you."


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded again, "Yes. I actually didn''t teach Song Qing any interrogation methods."


    "I just told her a spell imbued with Supernatural Power: ''Palace Jade Liquor, 180 per cup.''"


    "Recite this Curse, and it will make the prisoner speak willingly."


    "That''s why she was so surprised at first."


    Liu Fuping took a deep breath, then inquired, "So what agreement did you actually reach with that Evil God?"


    "Why would She have Her follower cooperate with you to such an extent?"


    Qiu Tu casually replied, "That''s a story that involves you, or rather... Director Liu behind you."


    ------


    Three chapters and 10,000 words done, ha. This month I''ve updated with a daily ten thousand words for 30 consecutive days, totaling 310,000 words! Next month we continue!


    Tomorrow, May 1st, is my birthday. I ask for an early Monthly Ticket as a baseline.


    There should also be a promotion for merchandise coming up, everyone is welcome to check it out.


    -----


    I recommend my friend''s book "Great Tang: Father Emperor, Your Son Desires Progress!"

 Chapter 239 - 194: Who is the Real Murderer? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted to Jia Wei.


    Perhaps during the interrogation that afternoon, Zheng Tao did indeed employ a great deal of methods on Jia Wei.


    So even with the exceptional recovery abilities of a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, his face still sported blues and bulges, looking utterly miserable.


    Added to that were the fresh blood filling his mouth and covering his face, which made his recounting of his tragic experiences seem even more impactful.


    Jia Wei, "On our first day in Cuishan City, it was Liu Xiongyuan who received us."


    "At that time, Liu Xiongyuan was just a Deputy Staff Leader in the Administrative Office."


    "He had managed to cross the threshold of an agent with difficulty, but within the entire Investigation Bureau hierarchy, he still belonged to the very bottom."


    "Moreover, since the Administrative Office was considered a weaker department, a clean government office, he wasn''t taken seriously by anyone."


    Jia Wei''s eyes revealed nostalgia, "Back then, his eyes seemed to still hold light, filled with longing for the life ahead."


    "Even though he had worked so hard for so long, it might have only been our starting point. But his eyes were still brimming with hope for the future."


    "It was also at that reception that he brought his son."


    Jia Wei''s mouth bled as he spoke, "Actually, that night, I felt there was something peculiar in the way my brother looked at Liu Xiongyuan''s son."


    "But I thought I was overthinking it. So, I didn''t take it to heart."


    "Later on, we began our hands-on activities. Our group of students was divided among the various departments of the Investigation Bureau for internships."


    "Some went to the Special Service Department, some to the Political Department, and some to the Public Security Bureau. Only I... was assigned to the Administrative Office!"


    At this, Jia Wei''s eyes nearly burst with frustration, "I was bewildered at the time and went to confront my brother, asking why he assigned me to such a job scope!"


    "But then... he told me that the Administrative Office was the department that tempered a person''s comprehensive abilities the most."


    "It might seem unimpressive, but it actually tested one''s capabilities a great deal."


    "Furthermore, you could learn from the Bureau Chief. So as long as you could hold on in the Administrative Office, whether for future development, like becoming Deputy Director or Bureau Chief, it would all be beneficial."


    "At the time, I truly believed he had my best interests at heart, so I agreed."


    Jia Wei laughed at himself with self-mockery, "But now that I think about it, he must have already calculated my involvement from the beginning."


    Jia Wei said, "Because I was assigned to the Administrative Office, and the very Liu Xiongyuan who had received us happened to be there, I naturally started to interact more with Liu Xiongyuan to quickly become familiar with the office''s affairs."


    "Thus, I gradually got to know Liu Xiongyuan''s son."


    "Liu Xiongyuan''s son was a very sunny, confident person. Like a sunflower, just like his father, his heart was always filled with kindness towards the world."


    "He believed that the Era of Disaster would soon pass, believed in the high-sounding but hollow ideals promoted by the Sanctuary, and believed that mankind would keep getting better."


    "To be honest, even in the Sanctuary, I have seen very few who are as optimistic as he was."


    "So gradually, we became friends with whom I could talk about anything."


    "We ate together, drank together, worked on cases together. He took the lead, while I supported him from behind with the logistics..."


    "Everything should have been very beautiful. Even if I went back to the Sanctuary, this friendship would have stayed in my heart for a long time."


    "Even... I was planning to apply to be assigned to Cuishan City as a department head, to become his superior, after I graduated."


    At this, Jia Wei pulled up a smile at the corners of his mouth, letting out a soft chuckle. Clearly, for him, this was a very pleasant memory.


    Qiu Tu was carefully analyzing Jia Wei''s microexpressions while continuing to listen.


    Jia Wei continued, "But everything changed on the eve of our return to the Sanctuary."


    "That night, to celebrate the end of my internship and to send me off, he and a few agents from our department took me out for dinner."


    "During dinner, we drank a lot of alcohol, but we didn''t drink to our heart''s content."


    "So, at 12 o''clock, we returned to my place to continue drinking."


    "Since my home was a vacant house provided by the bureau and I lived there alone without any outsiders, everyone readily agreed."


    "And so we kept drinking until 3 or 4 in the morning, before we drunkenly fell asleep."


    "I had thought it was the most ordinary day. But who would have known, it turned out to be the day that changed my entire life!"


    Jia Wei''s gaze was filled with pain and regret, "When I woke up the next day, I found the whole house was covered in bloodstains."


    "In my hand was a police-issue dagger, and he and the other three colleagues were all lying in a pool of blood, lifeless."


    "I was terrified at the time. I had no idea what had happened, so I panicked and threw the dagger away and ran."


    "But I never imagined that this would become one of the key pieces of evidence that the trial panel later used to deem me guilty."


    At this point, Jia Wei''s gaze had turned completely sinister and fierce, "After that, I hid for two days, and I thought it over for two days. No matter how I thought about it, something seemed off. I felt as if I had fallen into some sort of trap."


    "Just then, my own brother, Jia Shu, found me."


    "He told me that the case I was involved in had caused a huge uproar. Everyone was looking for me, and once they found me, I was certain to face death."


    "So, he gave me two suggestions: either flee Cuishan City and wander the earth forever, or turn myself in and hope for leniency."


    "At the time, I actually didn''t want to choose either; I wanted to figure out what was really going on with the case, to understand if I was truly the murderer."


    "But..." said Jia Wei, glancing at Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping with a wry smile, "you both know about my brother''s brainwashing abilities."


    "Thus, persuaded by him, I eventually chose the second path: to turn myself in."


    "I turned myself in to Yan Chen on the third day after the son of Liu Xiongyuan died."


    "And the testimony I gave when I turned myself in, such as killing people in a drunken blur, and running away in fear after realizing what I had done... all became crucial evidence in my future trial."


    What Jia Wei shared next was mostly in line with the details of the case that Qiu Tu was aware of.


    Because Jia Wei had turned himself in, and the fingerprints, traces, and the spray pattern of the bloodstains, plus the fingerprints on the murder weapon... all matched only the four people in the room...


    Therefore, the trial panel in the first trial concluded that Jia Wei was indeed the killer, so he was sentenced to death.


    But in the second review, Yan Chen changed his mind, and ultimately Jia Wei was sentenced to exile.


    Such a result was obviously unacceptable to Jia Wei. Thus, he had been quietly looking to investigate the old case.


    However, whether it was because his efforts were too apparent, after several attempts to investigate, Jia Shu found him.


    After finding him, Jia Shu told him to stop pursuing the case and warned him that if he continued investigating, not only would he cut off his financial support, but he would also send him to fend for himself in the Disaster Zone...


    It was only at that moment that Jia Wei suddenly sensed something very wrong about the entire situation.


    For instance... although Jia Wei had a very good relationship with the son of Director Liu, Jia Shu''s relationship with Director Liu''s son wasn''t bad either.


    For instance... Jia Shu seemed to always look at Director Liu''s son with an intense, strange gaze.


    For instance... during the entire "confession" and "sentencing" process, Jia Shu appeared to be guiding the direction of the whole affair.


    So, it was at that moment that Jia Wei suddenly realized that Jia Shu might just be the real culprit behind the scenes!


    After listening to Jia Wei''s narrative, the interrogation room fell silent for a moment.


    After a while, Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping exchanged glances, and then Qiu Tu said to Jia Wei, "About Jia Shu being the killer, do you have any evidence?"


    Jia Wei sneered, "Do you think that after so many years, there could still be any evidence for this case?"


    "Besides, with Jia Shu''s cautious nature, how could he possibly leave any evidence?"


    He said, "I''ve met with him a few times over the years, even trying to secretly record him admitting to the murder."


    "But he''s been very alert and never took the bait."


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Then he glanced at Liu Fuping and whispered, "Let''s step outside and talk."


    Liu Fuping had seemed to already anticipate this, so she nodded, stood up, and followed Qiu Tu out of the interrogation room. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once at the door of the interrogation room, Qiu Tu closed the door, sealing their voices away from Jia Wei.


    After that, he turned to Liu Fuping and asked, "Sister Liu, what''s your take on this?"


    ---------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words haha. Chapter 3 will be updated around 20:00! Continuing with a daily ten thousand words for the new month, I ask for your Monthly Tickets! During the double-points period, our book''s Monthly Tickets are eligible for a lottery draw. Interested readers can check the single chapter update on the 1st in the early morning.

 Chapter 240 - 195: I Have 100 Ways to Get Rid of Jia Shu (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment.


    She even hesitated to look at Qiu Tu, opting to lower her head in quiet contemplation instead.


    After a moment, she avoided Qiu Tu''s gaze and said somewhat ambiguously, "It might... be true."


    Who is Qiu Tu?


    A master of...! Ah, no. A master of female psychology!


    Thus, simply from Liu Fuping''s expression, Qiu Tu understood that she now somewhat distrusted him and dared not face him.


    This was actually quite understandable: in the new order of the Era of Disaster, where Sanctuaries were the core of human civilization, collaborating with an Evil God could almost be considered the gravest of sins.


    Hadn''t even Jia Shu, who held a high position and had a substantial background as the Head of the Political Department, fallen because of this?


    Therefore, when Liu Fuping discovered that Qiu Tu was actually cooperating with an Evil God and communicating with Evil God Cultists, it was perfectly normal for her to be a bit suspicious.


    Even Qiu Tu could guess what Liu Fuping was suspecting: nothing more than that he had colluded with the Evil God to eliminate Jia Shu, inventing reasons to deceive Director Liu into taking action.


    However, since Qiu Tu dared to bring Liu Fuping to meet Jia Wei, he was 100% confident he could make her believe in him again.


    After all, Liu Fuping''s loyalty, as high as 95 points, currently ranked in the top three among all of Qiu Tu''s subordinates.


    With such a high degree of loyalty, even if she momentarily doubted him due to a clash of beliefs, deep down she probably still stood by his side.


    As long as he explained himself a bit and guided her slightly, he would be able to win her back.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu did not continue discussing the case of Jia Wei and Jia Shu. Instead, he slowly began to talk about his dealings with Larilo.


    He said, "Sister Liu, do you know how much of a threat a descended Evil God could pose to humanity?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping hesitated before responding, "It could destroy a city? Result in hundreds of thousands of casualties?"


    She reminisced and continued, "I remember there was once a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature of the ''Destruction'' lineage that descended into the real world."


    "It went on a rampage in the real world and ultimately caused the deaths of seventy to eighty thousand people, with over a hundred thousand injured."


    "In the end, it was only after the Third Sanctuary dispatched its masters along with the army, at no small cost, that they were able to exterminate it."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then asked, "Then do you know the harm a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature can cause if it doesn''t recklessly use its power to destroy cities but instead starts posing as a ''God''?"


    At Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping was momentarily stunned.


    The destruction of cities and the massacre of humans by Catastrophic Creatures could be quantitatively expressed with numbers.


    But the harm an ''Evil God'' could cause...perhaps because no similar crisis had erupted yet, and without data, Liu Fuping really had some difficulty making a judgment.


    Seeing Liu Fuping at a loss for words, Qiu Tu smiled, then stretched out a clenched fist and suddenly opened it in front of her.


    "They... can destroy the entire human race."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s deep voice, Liu Fuping was momentarily dazed.


    Qiu Tu spoke with a hint of reminiscence in his voice, "Why are the Sanctuaries so vigilant towards ''Evil Gods''?"


    "They''re just like other Fourth and Fifth Order Catastrophic Creatures, mere Catastrophic Creatures with no special abilities, right?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Because... the Sanctuaries understand. The most powerful weapon of a creature is never brute force, but intelligence."


    "And what will lead to the extinction of humanity is not the powerful Fifth Order Catastrophic Creatures, but the Evil Gods who know how to infiltrate humanity and spread their beliefs."


    "Humans...are an incredibly resilient species. They can''t be conquered by force, but belief and brainwashing can."


    "When the Catastrophic Creatures learn to think, to disseminate their vile doctrine..."


    "When more and more humans are bewitched by them, when the number of those who follow their path increases..."


    "Only then will humanity truly fall under the thrall of the Catastrophic Creatures, completely losing their beliefs, their history, their backbone! And in the end... they will perish as a species..."


    Liu Fuping was clearly taking in Qiu Tu''s words. Her hands clenched slightly, and her brow furrowed deeply.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then continued, "And don''t forget, what era we are in right now."


    "The Era of Disaster!"


    Qiu Tu pointed towards the sky, his tone grave as he said, "Above the material world, a Spirit World has appeared out of thin air. The thoughts of all creatures can influence that world."


    "And belief...isn''t that the purest form of thought?"


    "So, who can guarantee what kind of impact a ''Evil God'' would truly have once they''ve spread their beliefs?"


    "''Brave New World'' alone was capable of giving birth to a super Catastrophic Creature in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "What then could the confluence of countless people''s beliefs bring into being?"


    "A Fifth Order Catastrophic Creature? An even more powerful Sixth Order Catastrophic Creature? Or... a true God?"


    "No one dares to wager on this probability. That''s why the Sanctuaries have a ''zero tolerance'' policy towards all events related to the Evil Gods!"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu gestured towards the interrogation room where Jia Wei was, adding, "And now, here in Xinjie City, we already have an Evil God that has successfully descended."


    "Although she''s not in her true body and doesn''t seem to be of the highest strength, in our confrontations with her, both the Security Department and I have found her to be unprecedentedly troublesome."


    "She not only knows how to create false hopes, to seduce people''s hearts, and to deploy schemes and cunning tactics. She even knows how to hide..."


    At this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but reveal a piece of news he had received from Qin Shuman the night before.


    With a solemn gaze, he said, "Since we learned of her descent, a week has passed. The Security Department has been investigating and searching through various leads."


    "But... so far, they haven''t found the slightest trace of her."


    "The Security Department wanted to get a description of the vessel for the Evil God''s descent from Old Master Qin''s mouth."


    "But... perhaps triggering some keyword, before Old Master Qin could even speak, his head just exploded."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping frowned, her gaze becoming serious.


    After a moment, she couldn''t help looking at Qiu Tu and tentatively asked, "So... your cooperation with the Evil God is to...?"


    Qiu Tu cut her off and corrected, "Sister Liu."


    "First of all, I have not cooperated with Larilo."


    "I merely had a brief conversation with her, exchanging a bit of information with each other."


    "Secondly, the reason I did this was for you and Director Liu."


    "I know that case from back then was Director Liu''s obsession, and it was your most important mission."


    "You might think I''m doing all this to have someone else do the dirty work for me."


    "But to be honest, I have a hundred different ways to get rid of Jia Shu, none of which would require you to lift a finger."


    Noticing a hint of disbelief in Liu Fuping''s eyes,


    Qiu Tu added with a smile, "He is just a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened without an official identity. If he dies, he dies."


    "Do you really think that, with my position, I can''t get my hands on a few rifles?"


    "Don''t forget the weapons Jia Wei and Wang Xi used for the robbery were rifles...."


    "And their weapons still haven''t been found...."


    Liu Fuping''s face suddenly lit up with realization upon hearing this.


    Seeing that Liu Fuping was convinced, Qiu Tu continued to explain the motive behind his contact with Larilo, "Lastly, and most importantly,"


    "Although I don''t possess a grand altruistic heart set on saving humanity,"


    "Xinjie City is still the place that raised me."


    "If Larilo really begins to gain strength in Xinjie City, we''re all doomed."


    "So, even if it''s just for self-preservation, I have to help the Security Department dig Larilo out!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s righteous words, Liu Fuping looked at him worriedly and said, "But.... if Larilo retaliates against you later...."


    "Or if the Security Department or the Investigation Bureau find out about this and don''t believe your explanation, what then?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu gravely said, "If I don''t enter Hell, who will?"


    Liu Fuping stared blankly at Qiu Tu. At that moment, in her eyes, Qiu Tu seemed... as if he was shining....


    [Liu Fuping Loyalty +2, current Loyalty 97]


    She couldn''t help but reach out and take Qiu Tu''s hand, then softly said, "I''m sorry, Qiu Tu. I doubted you just now."


    "Now I understand your thinking. I will definitely support you."


    As she spoke, her face was filled with determination, "Rest assured. Even if they doubt you and remove you from your position, I will speak with Director Liu and ask him to find a way to reassign you to Eastern City and restore your official position!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was moved as he clasped Liu Fuping''s hand back, while a faint smile formed at the corner of his mouth...


    Indeed, once loyalty reaches above 90, to boost it quickly, one must rely on "great justice."


    It''s only by embodying "great justice" and "deifying" oneself that people are more easily rallied.


    As for all the reasons and justifications that Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping discussed just now... of course... most of them were fabricated.


    Qiu Tu did indeed have several Plan Bs, but regardless of which Plan B it was, Qiu Tu had to act on his own.


    Any action would leave traces and could become a ticking time bomb.


    If it''s possible to use someone else to do the deed, why dirty one''s own hands?


    And about the exchange and cooperation with Larilo... that''s even more fake. The reason he communicated and cooperated was solely out of fear of death.


    Had it not been for Larilo''s fixation on him, he wouldn''t bother with the Evil God at all ¨C if he could eliminate it, great; if not, he''d hurriedly find connections to relocate his group!


    Trees die when they are uprooted, but people thrive from it. If the sky falls, there will be a Sanctuary to hold it up!


    Being just a lowly First-Order Catastrophic Awakened, why would he bother to confront a Fourth-Order or higher Evil God that could beguile hearts?


    While silently disparaging the situation in his mind, Qiu Tu once again asked his initial question, "Sister Liu, what do you think of Jia Wei''s words?"


    This time, Liu Fuping clearly reverted to her original attitude towards Qiu Tu.


    She hesitated for a moment before slowly speaking, "I don''t know how to judge."


    "Because all the words just now came solely from Jia Wei''s perspective."


    "That case happened too long ago. Clues and witnesses no longer exist. We don''t even have the conditions to retry the case." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Moreover, I don''t think Director Liu would believe the words of a murderer."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu finally began to reveal his true intentions.


    He said with a smile, "Indeed, Director Liu might not believe the words of a murderer. But he... might very well believe mine."


    He paused before solemnly adding, "So, Sister Liu, I hope you can use Jia Wei''s testimony to contact Director Liu once more and say that I would like to speak with him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s request, Liu Fuping didn''t hesitate this time and earnestly nodded, "Alright. I will contact Director Liu right away."


    After saying that, she turned and walked towards an empty interrogation room next door to make the call to Director Liu.


    Qiu Tu watched her leave and let out a sigh of relief.


    Now, at last, he had managed to connect with Director Liu through Jia Wei¡ªthe rest... now depended on when Jia Shu''s final verdict would be delivered.


    Once his verdict was handed down, Qiu Tu''s plan could truly proceed....


    And at that moment, just as Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    suddenly, his communicator buzzed vibrantly.


    Qiu Tu looked at the communicator and saw that it was from Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu didn''t pick up the call right away but first opened the door of the interrogation room and took a glance at Jia Wei.


    After confirming that he was still securely locked to the interrogation table, he shut the door and answered the call.


    As soon as he picked up, he heard Tang Feifei''s cool voice, "Qiu Tu, Jia Shu''s punishment has been decided."


    "Tomorrow morning he will be officially stripped of his title as Head of the Political Department, erased from the records of the Sanctuary, no longer a citizen of the Sanctuary, and expelled from Xinjie City."


    "However, the process deviated somewhat from what we expected."


    ------


    Today is my birthday, so the update is a bit late. But here are 3 chapters of 10,000 words anyway.


    Continuing with 10,000 words a day tomorrow! During the double period, please support with Monthly Tickets! Our book''s Monthly Ticket can be used for a draw during the double period; see the details in today''s single chapter!

 Chapter 241 - 196: Jia Shu Dismissed from Office (11,000 Words, Subscribe!)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression turned solemn.


    He asked, "What kind of incident has occurred?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei was in the study of her villa.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s grim study, hers was much brighter, not only equipped with ceiling lights but also surrounded by spotlights.


    Additionally, the cool-toned modern decor gave off a sense of grandeur and ambition!


    Sitting behind a light-colored solid wood desk, Tang Feifei looked somewhat serious.


    While reviewing a document in her hand, she explained to Qiu Tu,


    "My second uncle reported it according to the plan we discussed earlier."


    "Although Jia Shu didn''t side with the Evil God or betray humanity, he did collaborate with the Evil God."


    "Moreover, considering the attack on you and the suspected murders over the years, Sanctuary has been asked to relieve him of his duties and conduct further investigation and observation."


    "But after the report was submitted, there was substantial resistance."


    "Apart from the lack of comprehensive evidence and Jia Shu''s own confession, there was also interference from the person behind Jia Shu."


    In this world, due to the chaotic times, not much energy could be spent on thoroughly investigating individual cases; many relied on "heavy testimonies, light evidence."


    This method of case handling was prone to false accusations: as Jia Wei mentioned, being brainwashed into confessing by Jia Shu and turning into a real criminal was a common occurrence.


    Therefore, with Jia Shu keeping his mouth shut during the attack on Qiu Tu, not cooperating with the Disciplinary Department, and not providing any testimony, the case inevitably encountered various obstacles, such as¡­ allowing those behind him to cause trouble.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu asked, "Who is the person behind Jia Shu? What''s their identity?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tang Feifei from the other side of the phone lifted her head, her beautiful face filled with hesitation.


    After carefully weighing her words, she finally spoke, "The person behind Jia Shu is named Huang Shangzong."


    "He is one of the 36 members of Sanctuary''s council, and also one of the founders of the General Investigation Bureau."


    "During his years working at the General Investigation Bureau, he nurtured many mid-level and lower-level backbones, which is why his influence in the Investigation Bureau''s system is significant."


    "The reason Jia Shu was able to come to the Planning Area this time also has to do with his support."


    "Although life in the Planning Area is tough and resources are scarce, it is a place where one can train to the utmost, and act like a Local Tyrant beyond the reach of the Emperor, and also instantly elevate one''s rank. So it''s considered a lucrative position."


    "Without Commissioner Huang''s help, Jia Shu would have never obtained this position."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment and then added, "Additionally, you might not be aware¡­"


    "Lately, in order to better rebuild the Planning Area and for the seamless integration of the three major power institutions, Sanctuary is considering establishing higher-level administrative units in the Planning Area."


    "When it happens, Xinjie City, Eastern City, and several other cities will likely merge into a ''state''."


    "At that time, like Sanctuary, a State Council will be formed as the highest governing body of the entire state."


    "The bigwigs of the three major power structures from the dozen or so cities will automatically become council members. In addition to the 36 council members, there will be three Deputy Speakers and one Speaker."


    "Sanctuary''s current consensus is that 1-2 Deputy Speakers will be elected from among the 36 council members. The Speaker, however, will be appointed by Sanctuary''s council."


    Having said this, Tang Feifei paused, then added softly, "And according to the current public opinion, Huang Shangzong is very likely to become the first Speaker of the Dongye State Council¡­"


    Hearing this shocking news, Qiu Tu''s pupils on the other end of the phone couldn''t help but constrict slightly.


    Truthfully, this news took him by surprise!


    What could be more shocking than finding out your enemy''s ''backer'' is about to become your boss''s boss?


    ''This is really leaving me no way out!'' he thought indignantly.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu felt almost anxious. A State Council Speaker, even without a deep understanding of the political system of this world,


    could still be equated to those Senior Frontier Officials seen only on television in his past life.


    Now such a powerful figure was standing in his way.


    Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt tempted to back off: should he let Jia Shu off the hook?


    But no sooner had this thought surfaced than he quashed it.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t want to let Jia Shu go, but rather that Jia Shu wouldn''t let him go.


    Jia Shu''s ''Shadow Devouring'' cataclysmic ability could not change its target once chosen, and it had to devour the target before it could select another one.


    In such a scenario, as long as Jia Shu wanted to enhance his own strength, he would have to devour Qiu Tu.


    Thus, the two of them were caught in a deadlock, where only one could survive¡­


    ''Damn it¡­ I still have to kill him!''


    ''And, I cannot change the plan. With such a powerful person behind him, giving him a chance to start over would spell even more trouble for me!''


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu suppressed the trepidation and unease in his heart and then said gravely, "What happened next? How did Huang Shangzong end up handling this case?"


    Tang Feifei, sensing the change in Qiu Tu''s emotions, went straight to the point upon his inquiry, "Huang Shangzong didn''t alter the outcome of the case."


    "He merely tweaked the wording slightly."


    "He changed Jia Shu''s charge from ''collaborating with the Evil God'' to ''mutual exploitation with the Evil God.''


    "As for the attack on a colleague, that part was simply removed."


    "According to him, since you weren''t yet listed in Sanctuary''s records at the time, you couldn''t be considered Jia Shu''s colleague."


    "Regarding the suspected murders by Jia Shu in previous years, since there was no evidence and only conjecture and inference, they can''t serve as the basis for conviction. So those were also dismissed¡­"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s explanation, Qiu Tu burst into sardonic laughter. He "heh" and then remarked, "Not considered a colleague¡­"


    "Actually¡­ for Sanctuary, unless listed in their records, one is not considered a ''person,'' right?"


    "After all, for us who have silently perished in the Planning Area or the Disaster Zone, there isn''t much difference."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s gaze fell, but she didn''t retort.


    After all... in the Era of Disaster, no one knows how many people will die each day. The Sanctuary indeed doesn''t have the energy to save or even count each person who dies.


    To the Sanctuary, those people aren''t even numbers...


    After briefly exchanging pleasantries, Qiu Tu forcefully exhaled a clouded breath and then asked, "So, in the end, did the Disciplinary Department agree?"


    Tang Feifei uttered a confirmation and said, "The Disciplinary Department, in fact, cares more about the result than the process."


    "As long as the result doesn''t change, even if Huang Shangzong lightened Jia Shu''s responsibility, it''s still acceptable to them."


    "After all... politics is the art of compromise."


    Listening to Tang Feifei''s conclusion, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Politics truly is the art of compromise. Seriously speaking, even he was satisfied with such a result.


    After all... no matter how light Jia Shu''s responsibility is, he''s lost the position and Sanctuary status that he relied on for his life. So, killing him would not break any laws besides possibly provoking the people behind him...


    After all, according to Huang Shangzong''s words: Without the status of the Sanctuary, how could one be considered a colleague...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu fell into silence for a few seconds before he finally spoke up, "Feifei. Jia Shu''s dismissal notice will be issued tomorrow, right?"


    "When will he be expelled from Xinjie City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei calculated briefly, then responded, "Actually, in theory, he should leave tomorrow morning."


    "However, the Disciplinary Department might process some related paperwork. So, it is likely that he will leave tomorrow night."


    "Tomorrow night, huh..." Qiu Tu quickly made some calculations.


    ''There''s enough time!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu finally made up his mind. He smiled and said, "Understood. I got it."


    Hearing the implied meaning in Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei pondered for a moment before she said, "Qiu Tu... Huang Shangzong is no simple character."


    "Jia Shu is considered his prized prot¨¦g¨¦. You... you must be very careful."


    Tang Feifei didn''t understand the deep-seated issues between Jia Shu and Qiu Tu, so Qiu Tu knew she meant well for him.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu just smiled and said, "Don''t worry. I won''t make an enemy of such a high-level boss."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu sincerely added, "Thank you, Feifei."


    On the other end of the line, Tang Feifei fell silent for two seconds before saying coldly, "I''ve recently taken a liking to drinking ice water."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    This wasn''t even a hint, it was a declaration.


    Qiu Tu paused for a second, then reached for his "kidney area."


    Indeed... some debts can''t be avoided.


    Forget it... Tang Feifei has indeed been very helpful during this period, and he indeed should put in effort for her!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu braced himself and agreed, "Okay. I''ll come over to your place tonight to let you drink lots of ''hot water.''"


    Hearing the implied meaning in Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s lips curled into a smile, "I''ll wait for you."


    After speaking, she hung up the phone.


    On the other end, Qiu Tu set down the communicator, then took a deep breath, knowing that a fierce battle awaited him tonight!


    At this moment, as he was thinking this, the voice of Liu Fuping suddenly reached his ears, "Qiu Tu, is something wrong? Why do I sense that your expression is a bit grave?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu turned to look and saw Liu Fuping coming out from the adjacent interrogation room with a communicator in hand.


    He carelessly replied, "Nothing''s wrong. It''s just that a friend''s house has a broken water pipe, it''s constantly leaking and can''t be stopped, and they wanted me to help fix it."


    Liu Fuping gave a somewhat puzzled "oh" not quite understanding what was so serious about fixing a water pipe.


    But right now, she clearly had more pressing matters to attend to, so she put this strange excuse to the back of her mind and told Qiu Tu, "Director Liu has agreed to speak with you. He wants to hear your opinion on what Jia Wei said about the past."


    "But you only have three minutes."


    "If you can''t convince him within three minutes, he will hang up the phone."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at the communicator in Liu Fuping''s hand and then nodded.


    He adjusted his emotions, then confidently said, "Don''t worry."


    "To say nothing of three minutes, I''ll convince Director Liu within one minute."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping handed over the communicator.


    Qiu Tu took the communicator, then walked into the vacant interrogation room next door, shut the door, and said into the microphone, "Hello, Director Liu."


    On the other side of the line, a robust and oppressive male voice came through, "Hello, Chief Qiu."


    "..."


    .... S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Liu Fuping stood outside the interrogation room, keeping watch for Qiu Tu while also worrying about him in her heart.


    Director Liu, Liu Xiongyuan, was never an easy person to deal with. Especially since the death of his son, he had become even more solitary and capricious.


    And managing to rise to his current status from a background with no Sanctuary backing, his abilities were clearly extraordinary, something that couldn''t be ignored by others.


    Even in the eyes of most, he was someone even more troublesome to deal with than Yan Chen.


    After all, although Yan Chen has deep seniority and tremendous influence, he still came from the Academic Faction, always possessing some pride in his armchair strategies.


    ------


    Three chapters of ten thousand words, ha. One more update around 20:00. Please vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 242 - 197 Tang Feifeis Another Night (11,000 words seeking Monthly Ticket)

    But Liu Xiongyuan was not like that. As a low-class citizen born in the Disaster Zone,


    he had clawed his way up from the bottom, every step of his journey hard-fought.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu might be able to seize Yan Chen''s weakness to brainwash or trick her. But... he definitely couldn''t fool Liu Xiongyuan.


    Moreover, if Qiu Tu tried to play tricks, he''d most likely provoke Liu Xiongyuan''s displeasure....


    Thinking this, Liu Fuping couldn''t help but glance again at the interrogation room where Qiu Tu was.


    Just then,


    the door to the interrogation room suddenly opened from the inside.


    Qiu Tu, holding a communicator and wearing a smile, walked out.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s smile, Liu Fuping quickly approached and asked, "How did it go? Did you succeed?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Of course."


    Then he added softly, "You can always trust me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s confidently cool words, Liu Fuping blinked her attractive eyes and also revealed a smile....


    What followed was simple. After Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan reached an agreement, Jia Wei became of little use.


    Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping conducted another quick interrogation of him, and after learning the exact location where the abducted section and department heads'' families were being held, they sent him back to the guard room.


    Perhaps because he had completed the "mission" given by Larilo, Jia Wei went back to the guard room and lay down on his bed, quickly falling into a deep sleep--clearly, his thoughts had returned to his original state.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered slightly, but he quickly and discreetly looked away....


    After leaving the guard room, Qiu Tu bid farewell to Liu Fuping and then drove off in his battered old car to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    This was Qiu Tu''s first visit to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s luxurious City Center Garden, Tang Feifei''s villa was much more modest¡ªit was just an ordinary standalone villa.


    There were duty officers outside the villa. Judging by their uniforms, they were likely confidants from Tang Feifei''s Training Department.


    Tang Feifei had clearly informed them beforehand, so as Qiu Tu drove up, they all saluted and let him through.


    He parked his car in front of the villa, got out, and walked up to the front door.


    Before he could knock, the villa''s front door suddenly opened from the inside, and a fair arm stretched out quickly, reaching for Qiu Tu!


    Caught off guard, Qiu Tu was grabbed by the front of his shirt and yanked into the villa.


    Inside, with the lights dim, Tang Feifei was half-naked, her amber eyes glinting as she watched Qiu Tu with a predator''s focus.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu raised his hands, "May I take a shower first?"


    Tang Feifei''s gaze was icy, "Then together."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "Forget it, I''m not that dirty anyway."


    Tang Feifei, "Then come with me to the bedroom."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Tang Feifei, "Don''t worry, I promise I won''t touch you if you don''t agree."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu felt this conversation seemed somehow backwards, and oddly familiar?


    10 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Don''t worry, I''ll just hold you."


    12 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Why does your leg pop up just by hugging you?"


    15 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "It''s fine, I''ll just rub a bit."


    16 minutes later...


    Tang Feifei, "Hmm, that feels good."


    That night, Qiu Tu once again spent all he had accumulated over time on Tang Feifei!


    It was 3 a.m. before Qiu Tu, after once again expressing his affection for Tang Feifei inside her, suddenly realized:


    Wait a minute! Weren''t those lines that Tang Feifei just used the same ones he often used to trick girls?


    Good lord! He had been played by Tang Feifei!


    But... it was not a loss after all.


    So, the battle went on until dawn....


    ...


    The next day.


    Qiu Tu woke up in Tang Feifei''s bedroom.


    He felt that, aside from a slight soreness, he was far from as exhausted as last time.


    Putting on slippers and throwing on a coat, Qiu Tu stretched and left the bedroom.


    In the villa''s living room, Tang Feifei was dressed in a gray robe, eating breakfast and reading the newspaper.


    And... her assistant, the little spy from the Security Department, Su Xiaowan, was attending to her.


    Probably hearing footsteps from the bedroom, Su Xiaowan looked up and then saw Qiu Tu.....


    Her mouth slowly opened wide, and then her face was full of surprise, "Chief... Chief Qiu?!"


    "How... how are you here?"


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected to bump into Su Xiaowan at Tang Feifei''s home.


    He was stunned for a moment, then coughed and said, "Actually... I was discussing a case with Director Tang inside the house last night, do you believe me?"


    Su Xiaowan: ???


    She pointed at the hem of Qiu Tu''s clothing and said, "I might believe you if you were wearing pants, Chief Qiu."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu felt he must have caused a huge psychological shadow for Su Xiaowan.


    So, he could only...


    Reach out and knock Su Xiaowan out cold.


    Looking at Su Xiaowan, who had collapsed into his arms after a karate chop, Qiu Tu said disheartenedly to Tang Feifei, "Do you have a place to bury someone in your house?"


    Tang Feifei was amused by Qiu Tu''s actions.


    She puckered her lips, "The backyard. Just bury her under the tree."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    After laying Su Xiaowan down on the sofa, Qiu Tu went back to his room to change into his own clothes, especially putting on a pair of pants. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Looking at Tang Feifei, who continued to eat silently, Qiu Tu said, "Tell her I was never here when she wakes up. She was hallucinating."


    Tang Feifei made an "ok" sign with her hand.


    Seeing her so engrossed in the newspaper, Qiu Tu knew she must have seen some important information.


    So, he didn''t bother to embarrass himself further and stepped out of the villa.


    Then, just as he was about to step out the front door, Tang Feifei spoke again.


    Tang Feifei, "Oh, by the way, Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu turned around, a face full of question marks.


    Tang Feifei gave a thumbs-up, "You were great last night."


    Qiu Tu coughed, just about to return a compliment when Tang Feifei added, "By the way, don''t forget you still owe me one night. Try harder next time."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Indeed, this woman never has anything nice to say!


    No matter! He would repay her someday!


    Beastmen shall never be enslaved!


    ...


    Fuming, he drove to the Investigation Bureau.


    Getting out of the car, just as he entered the Investigation Bureau building, Qiu Tu noticed that the lobby on the first floor was crowded with people.


    Qiu Tu glanced around, not seeing what was going on, so he had to grab a detective and ask.


    The detective was initially a little annoyed at being pulled over.


    But when he realized the person holding him was Qiu Tu, his face immediately lit up with excitement.


    He saluted Qiu Tu and then reported, "Sir, here''s the situation."


    "Just now, the Administrative Office issued a ''Bureau Chief Order,'' relieving Minister Jia Shu of his position. Minister Jia Shu''s duties are temporarily assumed by Deputy Minister Cai."


    "Although the wording of the ''Bureau Chief Order'' is very cautious and restrained, who doesn''t know that Minister Jia Shu was taken away by the Diciplinary Department?"


    "So, he must be in trouble."


    "Everyone is gathered here because this news is too explosive, so they all want to see the original document to see if they can find any clues."


    After speaking, the detective smiled and asked, "By the way, sir, do you know any insider information?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and patted his shoulder, saying, "How would I know any insider information."


    "I just found out about it, same as you."


    Having said that, he added, "Alright then, continue your discussion. I have work to take care of."


    After that, Qiu Tu took one more glance at the notice board surrounded by detectives inside and out, then turned and entered the elevator.


    He pressed for the second floor, and as the elevator slowly ascended, Qiu Tu pondered his plans.


    Now that Jia Shu had been dismissed, could he also start the next phase of his plan?


    With this thought, the elevator "dinged" as it reached the second floor.


    Qiu Tu exited the elevator and walked toward the investigation team''s office.


    Inside the investigation team''s office, they were also discussing Jia Shu''s dismissal.


    For most ordinary detectives in the Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu was an untouchable high-ranking official. They lived and died at his command.


    Even though the Diciplinary Department had searched Jia Shu''s office a few days ago, many people couldn''t believe that he would be in trouble.


    And yet, today, such a figure was really dismissed. To be honest, it shocked most of the detectives.


    It was only at this moment that they vaguely began to understand what the Sanctuary represented...


    Entering the investigation team''s office, Qiu Tu looked around at his confidants, then gestured to Liu Fuping to come over.


    --------


    Chapter with 10,000 characters haha. One more chapter will be updated around 20:00. Ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 243 - 198 Yan Chen: Qiu Tu Didnt Betray? (11,000 words ask for Monthly Ticket!)

    Even before seeing Jia Shu''s dismissal notice this morning, Liu Fuping knew that Qiu Tu would definitely come to find her.


    So when she saw Qiu Tu signal to her, she immediately got up and walked out.


    Coming to the corridor outside and seeing no one around, Liu Fuping spoke in a low voice without waiting for Qiu Tu to speak, "People from Eastern City have already been sent over. But they need the exact time and location to take action."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said, "I will give you that tonight."


    Although the decision was already made, Liu Fuping was clearly still a bit worried.


    She looked up at Qiu Tu and asked, "Is it really Jia Shu?"


    After a moment''s thought, she said, "Actually, when Jia Wei was telling his story yesterday, I wanted to talk to you about it."


    "Do you know why Director Liu has been targeting Yan Chen all these years and never once targeted Jia Shu?"


    Qiu Tu also became a bit curious upon hearing this.


    He couldn''t help but ask, "Why?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "Three reasons."


    "First, in that case, even though Jia Wei is Jia Shu''s brother... Jia Shu has always supported executing his own brother."


    "At the time, many rumors claimed that Jia Shu was cold-blooded, sacrificing his kin for his own future and greater good."


    "So Director Liu had no reason to target him."


    "Second, aside from yesterday, Jia Wei had never told anyone else that there was another culprit. Let alone Director Liu, even the case investigation team wasn''t given the slightest hint."


    "So from the beginning to the end, there was no second suspect in that case. No one would think there was another suspect."


    "Under such circumstances, could it be the pressure over the years has been too great, causing him to become mentally ill and experience hallucinations?"


    "Or perhaps, he just wanted to use someone else''s hand to kill Jia Shu, deliberately splashing dirty water on him."


    "After all, Jia Shu wanted to lead him to a dead end back then."


    After mentioning two suspicions, Liu Fuping continued, "Third, and most importantly, it''s said that Jia Shu''s background is not simple, he seems to be highly favored by a big shot in the Sanctuary."


    "His rise to power over the years was supported by that influential figure."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "So Yan Chen doesn''t have the support and protection of influential figures?"


    "Director Liu still went after him."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping hesitated for a moment, then shook her head and said, "It''s not the same."


    "Yan Chen has backers too, but... they''re just normal support relationships."


    "But Jia Shu... seems to have, well, you know... a different kind of relationship with that big shot..."


    Liu Fuping didn''t finish her sentence, but Qiu Tu already understood what she meant.


    Qiu Tu was surprised for a moment.


    Although Qiu Tu always disliked the saying "no smoke without fire" for fueling rumors, in official circles, many such bits of gossip truly followed the adage...


    ''Could Jia Shu have some illicit relationship with Huang Shangzong?''


    ''That does complicate matters.''


    Indeed, as Liu Fuping explained: normal patronage and this kind of unusual relationship are different.


    If Jia Shu indeed ends up dead, the fury that will arise is completely different.


    However, just as he thought yesterday, Qiu Tu and Jia Shu are now in a deadlock. One of them is destined not to survive.


    Therefore, even if the path ahead is fraught with danger and full of hardships, Qiu Tu has no choice but to continue on!


    Moreover... it''s not he who will make the move. When the sky falls, Director Liu will bear it! What is there for him to fear!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt somewhat reassured.


    After confirming with Liu Fuping that everyone was in place, Qiu Tu turned around and left the investigation team, continuing with his plans.


    He went to the second floor rooftop and found a secluded corner. Then he took out a specially made communicator and called Qin Shuman.


    Lately, Qin Shuman seemed very busy.


    This time, it took seven or eight rings before Qiu Tu''s call was answered.


    Upon answering, the somewhat tired voice of Qin Shuman came from the other end, "Qiu Tu... what''s up?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t start with business matters, but first showed concern for Qin Shuman, "Another all-nighter?"


    At that moment, Qin Shuman stood in the corridor, with a large office behind her.


    Inside the office, many people were working overtime, processing and analyzing information.


    Rubbing her temples, Qin Shuman replied wearily, "Yeah... The intelligence work has just gotten on track recently, coinciding with the incident at Moonlight Lake."


    "The aura around Moonlight Lake has been getting stronger and seems about to condense."


    "To avoid Moon Crescent Lake falling into the hands of the Evil God or United Front, the military here has joined forces with the Eastern City Military Department to surround it thoroughly."


    "But even so, whether it''s the Investigation Bureau, City Hall, other city departments, or even the United Front and Evil God Cultists, everyone is frantically probing for intelligence."


    "So, we''ve been clashing with them constantly."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu asked, "Is there anything I can help with?"


    After briefly thinking it over, Qin Shuman replied with a laugh, "There''s nothing you need to do. This matter is too complicated, involving too many powers."


    "It''s like a giant storm that could swallow everyone."


    "So, it''s best not to get involved if you can avoid it."


    After chatting briefly with Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman''s mood evidently relaxed considerably. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leaning against the wall, her already long legs appeared even straighter, and with her army green military uniform, she was the picture of a valiant female officer in the corridor.


    "You must have called me for something else today, right?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu responded with a "hmm" and said, "Yes. I''m ready to proceed with the plan."


    On the other end of the phone, Qin Shuman clearly paused. She fell silent for two seconds before saying, "Stay safe. The whirlpool you''re in isn''t much smaller than mine."


    Qiu Tu solemnly hummed in acknowledgment.


    Then Qin Shuman went on to say, "I''ll have Lin Zuo send the items to you."


    Qiu Tu replied, "Thanks."


    Qin Shuman smiled and said, "What''s there to thank for? Do we need such formalities between us?"


    Just as she said this, a girl''s voice suddenly came from her end, "Major! There''s new developments, we have news from Moonlight Lake...."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman quickly said, "Qiu Tu, wait for me, I''ll get back to you."


    After saying that, she hurriedly hung up the call.


    Listening to the "beeping" sound from the phone, Qiu Tu''s gaze flashed with contemplation: Is there finally a result from Moonlight Lake?


    Then, this great storm that has involved so many powers, is finally about to fully take shape....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of the soon-to-be-established Dongye State....


    This is likewise a huge storm sweeping across the entire Planning Area.


    Two massive storms coming together, it''s hard to tell whether it will be a blessing or a curse, what impact it will have on me....


    ''I must resolve the matters with Jia Shu and Larilo as soon as possible.''


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu dared not delay any longer.


    He took out his communicator and dialed another number, preparing to execute the last and most crucial step of his plan....


    ...


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Bureau Chief''s office.


    As usual, the curtains were tightly drawn, not a sliver of sunlight coming through.


    Under the gloomy desk lamp, Yan Chen quietly smoked.


    Lately, Yan Chen felt a bit drained.


    First, the Moonlight Lake found between Xinjie City and Eastern City had attracted the coveting of various powers, requiring him to expend immense effort to protect the interests of the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and his own through complex alliances and maneuvers.


    Then, the Qin Family, his valued source of strength, was uprooted, significantly reducing his surrounding influence, making all his prior plans ineffective.


    Next came the trouble from the Disciplinary Department, which utterly severed his right-hand man, Jia Shu.


    And lastly... Qiu Tu''s public betrayal.


    As Yan Chen''s most promising confidant over the past two years, he actually had high hopes for Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, he felt as if he were looking at his archrival, Liu Xiongyuan: similar humble origins, similarly extraordinary abilities, and the same dauntlessness in combat.


    It was precisely because he understood his archrival so well that Yan Chen appreciated Qiu Tu all the more.


    He felt that if Qiu Tu could survive the midway and eventually grow into someone like Liu Xiongyuan, he would have a true great general!


    But who would have known, it seemed he was cursed when it came to these types of people.


    Just because he didn''t "publicly" intervene to help Qiu Tu against Jia Shu, Qiu Tu actually... openly defected!


    Yan Chen truly felt wronged.


    He just wanted to teach his subordinates not to be too indulgent, to toughen them up a bit....


    But who knew that his attempt at toughening up would completely drive Qiu Tu away.


    Moreover, he left so thoroughly.


    Thinking about Qiu Tu''s duplicity towards him these past few days, thinking about Qiu Tu''s public affront to his face, thinking about Qiu Tu''s visit to Tang Feifei''s office, a nameless fire burned in Yan Chen''s chest!


    To be honest, sometimes Yan Chen truly wished he could have Qiu Tu tied up in the office, then point a gun to his head and make him choose once and for all! Ask him, where exactly does he fall short compared to that woman Tang Feifei!


    "Damn it!" The more he thought, the angrier Yan Chen got. He muttered a curse under his breath and grabbed the expensive-looking purple clay teapot from the desk, hurling it towards the ground in front of the desk!


    Just as the teapot was about to collide with the floor, about to shatter and send water splashing everywhere


    Suddenly.... the office door opened, and the teapot froze in place, just a millimeter from the floor.


    Yan Chen paused mid-action, then looked up at the office door.


    At the entrance stood his other right-hand man, Secretary Bai.


    Secretary Bai waved his hand, and the teapot flew back to its original trajectory towards Yan Chen''s desk. He then advised Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief, now is a sensitive time, and if the staff find out about your loss of control, it might cause even more widespread panic...."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s well-reasoned advice, Yan Chen''s eyelids drooped, concealing once again the profound depths of his gaze.


    He uttered a soft "hmm" and, while straightening up the nearly shattered purple clay teapot on the desk, inquired, "Is there something you came in for?"


    Hearing Yan Chen''s question, Secretary Bai stepped forward, then lowering his head, he whispered, "This is why I''ve come to consult with you. Qiu Tu... wants to see you."


    "Who? Qiu Tu?" Yan Chen nearly thought he misheard the name.


    He looked up at Secretary Bai.


    Seeing Secretary Bai nod, his gaze remained impassive as he asked, "What does he want with me?"


    "Shouldn''t he be seeking out that woman Tang Feifei?"


    At the end, Yan Chen even snorted through his nose, expressing his dissatisfaction with Qiu Tu''s betrayal.


    Secretary Bai said softly, "That''s why I''m consulting with you."


    "Qiu Tu said over the phone... that he has never betrayed you."


    "He deliberately took advantage of the previous opportunity to go undercover at Director Tang''s place, intending to gather intelligence for you."


    "He originally planned to go undercover a while longer before reporting back to you.


    "But last night, he obtained two extremely important pieces of intelligence. He thought they would be of utmost importance to you. So, he had no choice but to risk exposure to meet with you."


    At this point, Secretary Bai paused and then added, "Moreover, he said that due to his delicate position right now, he can''t come to your office. So, he''d like to arrange a meeting elsewhere."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s words, even with Yan Chen''s cunning and scheming, he struggled to keep control of his facial expression for a moment.


    He looked up with an incredulous expression, staring at Secretary Bai as if he were some fool...


    Qiu Tu hadn''t betrayed him? He was undercover? Are you telling me some kind of fairy tale?


    ------


    I''ll be adding more chapters today, 3 chapters, 11,000 words. Desperately asking for Monthly Tickets!


    We''ll continue with daily 10k words tomorrow.


    But there''s a party tonight, I might drink late.


    Updating at 4 a.m., 5 a.m. might not be possible. Likely, the update will be at about 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. tomorrow, with 3 chapters at once.... let''s just say I''m readjusting my schedule.


    So, there''s no need to wait in the early hours. You can all read together tomorrow evening haha.

 Chapter 245 - 200: Deceived Yan Chen Again (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    To know, Qiu Tu had just not only revealed the possibility of Jia Shu being assassinated, but had also divulged a key piece of information: the assassin was none other than Director Liu.


    Who is Director Liu?


    He''s Yan Chen''s arch-nemesis who has been contending with him for years!


    Even with Yan Chen''s background and abilities, he couldn''t do anything to him, which also shows how formidable Liu Xiongyuan is.


    And in the likely event that Huang Shangzong would assume the role of Speaker of the Dongye State Council, Liu Xiongyuan''s attack on Huang Shangzong''s trusted lieutenant...


    Wouldn''t that directly provoke Huang Shangzong?


    At that time, Yan Chen wouldn''t need to do anything and could simply enjoy watching Huang Shangzong suppress and corner Liu Xiongyuan.


    Wouldn''t that be wonderful?


    Helping Jia Shu would not bring much benefit.


    But not helping Jia Shu would allow him to suppress his enemies.


    Such a choice was not difficult for Yan Chen to make...


    Moreover, from Yan Chen''s perspective, Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan had no connection.


    Yet these past few days, Qiu Tu had become quite close with Tang Feifei and Jiang Pengfei.


    So... the assassination attempt on Jia Shu also implicated another one of his enemies.


    The death of Jia Shu buried a huge mine for his many political adversaries. Yan Chen was very clear about the benefits of this transaction.


    And sure enough, "without surprising him," Qiu Tu continued to share more intelligence.


    He said, "As for the second piece of intelligence, it is that Director Tang has a profound background within the Disciplinary Department."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu glanced at Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen''s expression didn''t change at all. Clearly, he should have already known about Tang Feifei''s background.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued, "Moreover, she has been in contact with Director Liu privately."


    "The channel of communication is her lover, who is also my subordinate: Liu Fuping."


    Yan Chen showed a hint of realization, but it wasn''t a surprise.


    Qiu Tu knew his guess was right: After Jia Shu tested out all the spies, he must have given Yan Chen a list, which certainly included Liu Fuping.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shifted his tone, "However... I have turned Liu Fuping into our Bureau''s spy."


    "It was through her intelligence that I learned Director Tang has been in contact with Director Liu all along."


    "And this time, after Director Tang captured several of Jia Wei''s clones, she got to know from these clones the truth about the murder case of Director Liu''s son many years ago. She then conveyed it to Director Liu through Liu Fuping."


    "That led to Director Liu''s assassination attempt."


    Qiu Tu''s concocted story was logically sound and had many details that exactly matched what Yan Chen knew and could be corroborated one by one.


    Thus, for a moment, Yan Chen really began to believe what Qiu Tu was saying...


    He sat quietly in the chair, pondering the "benefits" this matter could bring... S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And seeing this, Qiu Tu also lowered his gaze, silently waiting for Yan Chen to speak.


    He didn''t feel any guilt about "betraying" his own people. Because... he hadn''t actually betrayed anyone!


    Tang Feifei''s background and Liu Fuping''s identity were clearly already known to Yan Chen.


    Moreover, Tang Feifei had not actually colluded with Liu Xiongyuan.


    Even if Yan Chen told Huang Shangzong, Huang Shangzong wouldn''t just believe Yan Chen on his word alone and would certainly investigate.


    But... he could send 100 people, and they would still find no trace of Tang Feifei colluding with Liu Xiongyuan.


    After all, how could they find out something that had never happened?


    And if nothing could be found, how could Qiu Tu be considered a betrayer?


    As Qiu Tu contemplated this, Yan Chen finally spoke.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, then asked, "What is the third piece of intelligence?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu then finally revealed one of his two purposes for the evening, "Chief, the third message is that Director Tang and Commissioner Jiang want to promote me to Deputy Minister of the Political Department!"


    When he heard Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen was visibly startled.


    He looked at Qiu Tu hesitantly, "You''ve risen so quickly recently, how could you possibly keep rising up?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "That''s what I told them too."


    "But they seem very confident."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes revealed a trace of thoughtfulness, then he said, "They seem to have mentioned something about the Disciplinary Department and the decentralization of the Political Department''s powers."


    "I don''t quite understand it."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s face showed a moment of realization, and he immediately understood the thinking of "Tang Fei" and "Commissioner Jiang"...


    He pondered and said, "Indeed, part of the Political Department''s power was decentralization from the Disciplinary Department."


    "If the Supervisors nominate you to take charge of that department, and with the deputy minister position vacant, there indeed is a reason for you to get another promotion,"


    "However... the premise is that I, the Investigation Bureau Chief, do not oppose it."


    As he said this, Yan Chen lifted his drooping eyelids as if finally seeing through Qiu Tu''s intentions, and looked up at him.


    By this point, everything was almost out in the open.


    Whether it was Yan Chen or Qiu Tu, they both knew that regardless of whether Qiu Tu had betrayed anyone before or not, his biggest purpose tonight in seeking out Yan Chen was actually to ensure Yan Chen would not oppose the nomination.


    Simply put, Qiu Tu was telling Yan Chen: he had enough value to exchange for that position.


    Furthermore, as long as he was given this position, he could obtain more information from Jiang Pengfei, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei, providing Yan Chen with even more value.


    In the officialdom, what are there so many betrayals for if not for weighing interests!


    When sufficient interests lie before you, does betrayal really matter?


    Yan Chen clearly saw through the message Qiu Tu wanted to convey, so he stretched out his aged hand, took out a cigarette, lit it, and quietly smoked, as if pondering...


    And Qiu Tu didn''t hurry either. He gazed distantly out of the window, estimating the time...


    If everything went smoothly, Jia Shu should have already left Xinjie City by now, right?


    And he had no idea how Liu Xiongyuan''s assassination plot was proceeding...


    ....


    Meanwhile,


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    A military green jeep drove out of the Investigation Bureau and slowly headed towards the outskirts of Xinjie City.


    In the car, besides the driver, there were only two people: Jia Shu and Tang Feifei.


    Sitting in the back seat, with handcuffs on his wrists and gold-rimmed glasses on his nose, Jia Shu wore a smile that made him seem gentle and harmless.


    Looking at Xinjie City''s scene of desolation through the window, he chuckled at Tang Feifei and said, "Director Tang, was it really worth it to use your family''s resources to struggle against me for the sake of a Qiu Tu?"


    "What kind of magic does he possess to make you treat him so well?"


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, Tang Feifei''s face was frosty as she coldly said, "I''m helping him not because he is worth it, but because you crossed the line."


    "Hehe..." Jia Shu laughed softly.


    "Such a high-sounding argument might fool ordinary people."


    "As if there''s so much crossing the line¡ªit''s just our own internal struggles after all..."


    "You might not admit that it''s for Qiu Tu, but you could at least come up with a more believable reason,"


    "Like wanting to cut off one of Yan Chen''s arms... That way, I''d feel a bit more sincerity."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s face remained expressionless, without any desire to reply.


    However, Jia Shu was especially talkative today.


    He adjusted the gold-rimmed glasses on his nose and then said lightly, "To be honest, I''ve already calculated today''s outcome."


    "From the moment I planned the attack on Qiu Tu, I felt that the chances of success were quite slim."


    "He''s too shrewd; seeing him is like seeing my younger self. Both full of drive, smart, daring to gamble and fight."


    "It''s just, I always believed that I am stronger now than in my youth, which is why I thought of taking one more gamble."


    "But I really didn''t expect that Qiu Tu could get so much help. So I lost the bet..."


    "But it doesn''t matter."


    As he said this, the car slowly left the city.


    Smiling, Jia Shu said, "I have countless opportunities to fail."


    "And he only has one..."


    Listening to his words, Tang Feifei coldly said, "Are you done talking?"


    After saying that, Tang Feifei didn''t wait for his response and turned to the driver; then she said, "Alright, stop the car."


    "My task was to escort him out of Xinjie City."


    "Now that we have left Xinjie City, my mission is complete."


    The driver, upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, slowly stopped the car.


    Tang Feifei took out a key, unlocked Jia Shu''s handcuffs, then put the handcuffs away and waved her hand at Jia Shu, "Goodbye for good."


    After that, she opened the door, jumped out of the car, and headed back towards Xinjie City.


    Meanwhile, in the car she left behind,


    The driver glanced at the rearview mirror, then respectfully took out a communicator and handed it to Jia Shu, "Minister Jia, now that you are safe, you should inform Commissioner Huang that all is well."


    -----------


    I wrote this in advance, haha, still 3 chapters, 10,000 words. The third chapter will be updated around 21:00.


    We''re just 700 tickets away from reaching the target for this event, I need your Monthly Tickets! You can enter a lottery when you cast a Monthly Ticket for our book~~

 Chapter 246 - 201: The Death of Jia Shu (10,000-word request for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing the driver''s words, Jia Shu rubbed his sore wrists that had been shackled in handcuffs, then stretched out his hand to receive the specially made communicator from the driver.


    The driver continued to start the vehicle, driving towards the desolate Disaster Zone.


    Watching the window view change from bustling street scenes to ruins and broken tiles, Jia Shu pulled out the antenna of the specially made communicator, then pressed a number.


    This specially made communicator clearly was not ordinary, as it could make ultra-long-distance calls. However, the downside was that connecting took a certain amount of time.


    So the green jeep had driven almost a kilometer before the communicator was connected.


    A man''s voice, full of vigor and slightly oppressive, came through on the other end, "Young Jia?"


    Hearing the man''s words, Jia Shu''s smile disappeared in a second, his expression becoming serious and respectful, "Elder Huang."


    Hearing Jia Shu''s words, the man laughed heartily and said, "Out now?"


    Jia Shu respectfully replied, "Yes. And I need to thank Elder Huang for your help."


    The man spoke heartily, "It''s nothing. Those were just trifles. In doing great things, one mustn''t sweat the small stuff!"


    "However... I do have to say something to you," the man continued sternly, "Have you been living too comfortably recently? Letting a nobody get you into such a sorry state!"


    "When I heard Small Tang''s report, I really wanted to drag you back and remake you!"


    "Was this how I taught you all back then?!"


    "Always scheming! Can''t you handle things with integrity?"


    In Xinjie City, Jia Shu was known as the devil who could stop children from crying, and both at the Investigation Bureau and the Political Department, he was a major figure whose smile made everyone afraid.


    Yet in front of this man, he was being scolded like a grandson...


    Even so, his face still bore a full expression of respect as he earnestly spoke, "What Elder Huang has taught is correct..."


    Huang Shangzong snorted coldly, speaking with robust vigor, "In actions and intentions, be forthright and upright. Even when dealing with subordinates, prefer open strategies over secretive schemes!"


    "Dominate through power, crushing with sheer strength!"


    Jia Shu bowed again, nodding, "Yes, Elder Huang."


    Seeing Jia Shu''s good attitude, Huang Shangzong finally didn''t seem so angry. He said heartily, "It''s only because you held the line. Even though you made a mess of things, at least you didn''t lose sight of the important principles!"


    "Otherwise, I wouldn''t even bother giving you another chance."


    After finishing, Huang Shangzong offered comfort, "Let''s call it even on this matter. Later, have Old Ji take you to Jingnan City. There, reflect and contemplate on what you have done during this period."


    "At the earliest next month, or at the latest the following month, Dongye State will be officially established."


    "At that time, I will become the Speaker of Dongye State. Once I settle in, I will look for an opportunity to make arrangements for you."


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Jia Shu quickly expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Elder Huang."


    After finishing, he paused, then added in a soft voice, "I''ve troubled you."


    After hanging up the phone, Jia Shu held the specially made communicator, his gaze somewhat distant as he looked at the scenery outside the window.


    Then he recalled the "special" relationship between himself and Huang Shangzong.


    Contrary to the rumors on the grapevine, in fact, the relationship between Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong was pure and simple; both were normal men, and they certainly did not share any sort of illicit relationship.


    The bizarre rumors were all due to the contrasting personalities of Huang Shangzong and Jia Shu.


    Huang Shangzong was energetic and bold in action, grand in demeanor, and protective of his own. His style of doing things was more overt than covert. He liked to overpower others with swaying momentum and to break rules with brute strength!


    On the other hand, Jia Shu seemed gentle and shrewd, favoring intrigues and schemes...


    Therefore, no matter how outsiders viewed them, these two didn''t seem to belong to the same kind, let alone come together.


    However, in reality, Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong genuinely shared a teacher-student relationship.


    When Jia Shu was studying at the Military Officers'' Academy, Huang Shangzong discovered this promising disciple and took him under his wing to begin his cultivation.


    After Jia Shu graduated, Huang Shangzong first had him stay at the school as an instructor to accumulate experience for two years, then transferred him to the Investigation Bureau to start focused training.


    Throughout the teaching period, Huang Shangzong always imparted grand and righteous paths.


    But for some reason, Jia Shu, who studied earnestly and contemplated deeply, ended up taking a narrow, less-traveled path.


    At first, Huang Shangzong was a bit shocked and doubted that Jia Shu was learning those devious schemes from someone else. But upon closer observation, he discovered that some of Jia Shu''s methods did indeed bear some resemblance to his own...


    Being broad-minded by nature, and adding that, other than his style of conduct, Jia Shu''s capabilities were still excellent and no issues were heard about his character, Huang Shangzong didn''t much mind...


    Having recalled his relationship with Huang Shangzong, Jia Shu''s gaze grew somewhat profound.


    Although he hadn''t completely ruined his prospects this time, he had taken a severe fall.


    This accident had abruptly halted his rise in both rank and strength.


    In the race for opportunities brought by the Cataclysm, this could very well cost him all chances of further advancement.


    With this thought, a chill surfaced in Jia Shu''s eyes.


    ''This matter cannot just be left at that.''


    ''I can''t let all this time be wasted.''


    ''Even if I can''t get a promotion for the time being, my strength must still break through.''


    ''Therefore, I must "Devour" Qiu Tu to become a Third Order Cataclysmic.''


    ''Only by becoming a Third Order Cataclysmic, will my abilities undergo a transformation. Only then can I truly glimpse the Domain that belongs to High Order Catastrophists.''


    Thinking this, a cold glint flickered in Jia Shu''s shadowy eyes.


    As he watched the scenery swiftly receding outside the window, he remembered a "trump card" about Qiu Tu that he held in his hands.


    As Jia Wei had said, Jia Shu''s ability was "Shadow Devouring". This ability required devouring those who "have secrets" in order to continuously improve.


    Thus... this ability also granted Jia Shu the power to "see" the magnitude of a person''s secrets.


    As early as when Qiu Tu had traversed and "first met" Jia Shu, Jia Shu was shocked.


    He discovered that Qiu Tu was enveloped in a thick "darkness". That "darkness" was so vast it nearly covered the entire corridor, obscuring all vision.


    But it must be known that Jia Shu had seen "Qiu Tu" before, and at that time, "Qiu Tu" didn''t have a whiff of "darkness" about him, meaning he didn''t have a shred of a secret.


    As a result, having not seen him for just one day, Qiu Tu had acquired such a huge secret, which immediately piqued Jia Shu''s curiosity.


    That''s why Jia Shu kept a continuous watch and tested Qiu Tu. Eventually, he discovered Qiu Tu''s secret¡ªhe wasn''t the original "Qiu Tu", but a soul from who knows where that had taken up residence in "Qiu Tu''s" body.


    And all of this was likely related to Larilo''s arrival.


    It was precisely for this reason that Jia Shu had been deliberately bringing Qiu Tu and Larilo together during this time to see what kind of chemical reaction would occur.


    Now, although he had played his hand poorly, his "trump card" was still in play.


    All he had to do was reveal this trump card, and Qiu Tu would 100% come under investigation by the Security Department and the Disciplinary Department; he would likely, like Jia Shu, lose his official identity.


    In that case, wouldn''t Qiu Tu, as an ordinary person, be at the mercy of Jia Shu''s devouring?


    ''I can''t give Qiu Tu any more time to grow. Strike the snake at its vital point, when cutting weeds, you must remove the roots!''


    ''If I don''t take him down now, before he has taken off completely, it''s hard to say if there will ever be another chance...''


    Thinking this, Jia Shu made a silent decision in his heart.


    He planned to call Yan Chen as soon as he arrived in Jingnan City and discuss the matter with her.


    Based on his understanding of Yan Chen, as long as there was enough benefit, Yan Chen wouldn''t care about the life or death of such a minor chief!


    Just as Jia Shu was thinking this, he suddenly noticed the green jeep slowing to a stop.


    He snapped back to attention and looked up to see that, not far ahead on the broken road, some ragged disaster survivors wielding sticks had moved many stones to block the road and set up a checkpoint.


    In the Era of Disaster, the roads between cities were made from the decrepit highways of the pre-disaster era. It was common for disaster survivors to set up checkpoints along the way and charge a toll.


    Typically, disaster survivors would scatter when they came across a large convoy, but if they encountered ordinary travelers or a small car, they would definitely try to extort a significant amount¡ªunless those travelers or drivers had weapons.


    Being a driver for Elder Huang, Old Ji was certainly no ordinary person.


    Seeing the scene unfold, he decisively pulled out his handgun, leaned out the window, and fired a shot into the sky! S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A loud "bang!" of the gunshot.


    The disaster survivors who had blocked the road indeed scattered in all directions!


    Although Jia Shu didn''t see anything unusual, a vague sense of unease lingered in his heart...


    It was as if something bad was about to happen.


    His mind raced, trying to find any clue or unconsidered detail he might have missed.


    But before he could think it through...


    Suddenly, two groups of assailants burst out from both sides of the road!


    They were hooded with uniform black knit balaclava hats, wore patches of worn tactical vests, carried rifles, and without hesitation began to wildly shoot at the jeep!


    In front of the high-speed bullets, the jeep''s doors and windows were as easily pierced as if made of paper!


    Hundreds of bullets were fired unrestrained, raining upon Jia Shu and Old Ji!


    Perhaps because the scene was so sudden, neither of them had even the chance to use their Cataclysmic abilities before they were riddled with holes!


    As the bullets tore into Jia Shu''s body, there wasn''t a trace of pain on his face, only shock and disbelief!


    After all... in his heart, he believed he should have had an unlimited future!


    He was supposed to have the chance to devour Qiu Tu, to become a Third Order Catastrophist, to explore the world that belonged to High Order Catastrophists!


    He should have been able to make a comeback and be active in the political scene of the Planning Area again!


    How could he possibly die so abruptly here!


    Who would dare commit such an outrage, daring to assassinate him at such a time!


    Was it Qiu Tu?


    But where would he get these large-caliber weapons specifically designed for Second Order Cataclysmics?


    Was it the United Front?


    But if the United Front wanted to attack him, they wouldn''t know the exact timing of his expulsion to set up in advance, would they?


    Then who was it....?


    In that moment, time seemed to slow down.


    At a certain instant, Jia Shu suddenly had a flash of realization and knew the answer!


    It was Liu Xiongyuan!


    Had he finally discovered the secret of that year''s case?!


    With this in mind, and thinking of Jia Wei who fell into Qiu Tu''s hands, and how smoothly he had passed this incident...


    A look of sudden realization finally appeared on Jia Shu''s face...


    ''Indeed... when cutting weeds, you must remove the roots...''


    ''I understand this principle, and so does Qiu Tu...''


    As he thought this, Jia Shu''s body finally collapsed heavily onto the car!


    The bullets continued to pour out ceaselessly; the two groups of assailants shot wildly as if it cost them nothing.


    Finally, after shooting for over twenty seconds, the jeep exploded with a "boom!" and burst into flames, completely engulfed in fire.


    Seeing this, the black-clad teams skillfully pulled out their instruments for a scan, and after confirming there were no survivors, they signalled each other and promptly withdrew!


    From their appearance to Jia Shu''s death, and then their departure, it all took less than a minute, a display of extremely well-trained execution!


    Meanwhile, on a small hill not far from this section of road, a man wearing a clown mask and a suit watched the event unfold, clutching his stomach, and burst into wild, "hahaha" laughter.


    While laughing, he said, "Brother, brother, so you have your day too?!"


    "Hahahaha! So you have your day!"


    As he laughed, tears streamed down his face, and his voice grew fierce, "You have your day too!!"


    Just then, suddenly, an aged voice came into his ear, "Found you..."


    ----------

 Chapter 247 - 202: Framing Yan Chen! (10,000-word subscription plea!)

    Upon hearing that hoarse voice, Jia Wei was clearly startled.


    He leapt to one side, then warily looked towards the direction the voice had come from.


    What he saw was an elder looking like a thunder god, with a lean body, dark skin, but a head of white hair and beard!


    The old man''s eyebrows were thick and wild, like two white swords pointing straight to the heavens. His face was like an ancient pine sculpted by the years, with deep and hard-set wrinkles.


    These striking features immediately made Jia Wei''s pupils shrink violently, as if he had seen a nightmare!


    "Liu Xiongyuan?!"


    The voice seemed to be squeezed out bit by bit from Jia Wei''s mouth.


    He looked at the elder with some disbelief and then said, "How could you be here?"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan stood with his hands behind his back, silently staring at Jia Wei.


    His eyes were like two bottomless ancient wells, pupils black as ink, yet within them burned a ferocious fire, unapproachable to gaze into!


    "I have come to kill you."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Jia Wei''s pupils contracted slightly.


    While cautiously scoping out a direction to escape, he forced a strained smile and said, "Uncle Liu, actually there is something I have been wanting to explain."


    "It wasn''t me who killed Liu Kai."


    "It was my brother!"


    Jia Wei pointed crazily at the burning jeep not too far away and berated, "It was him, all him! He killed Liu Kai and then framed me!"


    He took off his mask, revealing a face not even remotely similar to Jia Shu''s, then started crying while saying, "Back then, Liu Kai and I were as close as brothers."


    "How could I possibly kill him?"


    "It was my brother, he killed Liu Kai and framed me. Really, Uncle Liu!"


    Listening to Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan''s gaze remained as still as an ancient well, simply asking faintly, "Are you done talking?"


    Seeing that there was no effect, Jia Wei''s demeanor suddenly changed, and he pointed at Liu Xiongyuan and cursed, "You damn old fossil! I''m telling you, it wasn''t me! It wasn''t me!"


    "You''ve been hunting me for so many years! Aren''t you tired?"


    "I''ve been hiding from you! Hiding from you! And yet you still found me!"


    "But it doesn''t matter! If you can, just kill me!"


    As he spoke, he patted his face, assuming an insolent expression as he said, "You see my face?"


    "This isn''t my real body! No, it''s not!"


    "Even if you kill me, I will be reborn somewhere else!"


    "What can you do to me then!"


    Hearing Jia Wei''s words, Liu Xiongyuan just repeated his question, "Are you done talking?"


    Jia Wei: ...


    Jia Wei "thumped" down onto his knees in front of Liu Xiongyuan, tears streaming as he said, "Uncle Liu, could you let me off this once..."


    "If Little Kai knew you killed me, he wouldn''t rest in peace even in the netherworld!"


    "I truly didn''t know anything about what happened back then. Uncle Liu..."


    Faced with Jia Wei''s series of emotional shifts, Liu Xiongyuan still had only four words for him, "Are you done talking?"


    Realizing that Liu Xiongyuan was impervious to persuasion, Jia Wei dropped the act completely!


    With a spring, he bolted, fleeing like an arrow released from its bow!


    But just then, a gentle murmur from Liu Xiongyuan came from behind him, "It seems you are finished."


    The next second, he felt a shadow suddenly appear beside him like a pestilence clinging to his bones.


    Then, a punch!


    Just one punch!


    The leaping Jia Wei was smashed to the ground with immense force!


    With a "boom!", a loud noise erupted!


    Dust flew up, and a large crater appeared on the ground.


    And as the dust settled, Jia Wei, spitting blood, lay limp in the crater, his bones seemingly shattered completely, his limbs twisted into irregular shapes, utterly unable to move.


    His eyes were lifeless as he looked at Liu Xiongyuan, spitting blood while emitting a faint "hehe..." sound.


    Liu Xiongyuan then landed on the ground, his previously lean body now bulged with power, standing like a colossal mountain peak!


    His dark muscles swelled, each seeming to contain endless strength...


    Step by step, he walked towards Jia Wei in the crater.


    But Jia Wei''s eyes grew dimmer, and the next second, they lost all light...


    Upon reaching the edge of the pit, Liu Xiongyuan''s muscles atrophied, and he returned to his original, gaunt appearance.


    He picked up the corpse as if it were trash and dragged it across the ground, walking towards the distance.


    A long trail of blood marked the path of the body, and groups of men in black, appearing like ghosts, had emerged at his side without a sound, accompanying him forward.


    The entire procession was solemn and respectful, as if part of a funeral...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Garden Villa in City Center Garden.


    After a long period of quiet contemplation, Yan Chen slowly lifted his head, looked towards Qiu Tu, and then spoke with a touch of emotion, "Qiu Tu."


    "Do you know?"


    "I feel like you have changed a lot recently. You''ve become so different that I hardly recognize you."


    "It''s as if you''ve had an epiphany overnight, starting to understand politics and human nature."


    "Sometimes, I even suspect you''ve become someone else. I want to have you captured and checked by the Security Department."


    Qiu Tu was not the slightest bit alarmed¡ªhe was a captain in the Security Department, after all! And Qin Shuman was aware of his possession, so there was no way any investigation could lead back to him.


    Thus, his gaze was nothing but sincere, "The Bureau Chief is joking. Perhaps it''s just a little bit of learning by osmosis from being around the Bureau Chief."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Yan Chen chuckled coarsely, a voice as harsh as a smoker''s cough.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu, "You see, the old you could never have said something so pleasant."


    After uttering some cryptic and peculiar remarks, Yan Chen then added blandly, "Since the Diciplinary Department and City Hall wish to make you the Deputy Director of the Political Department, I... actually don''t have any objections." S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "After all, you''re my soldier. With you in the Political Department, I can feel more at ease."


    "It''s better than them arranging someone else to pull the wool over my eyes."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised in the least.


    Yan Chen was a quintessential political creature.


    In front of such a being, there were only interests, no stances.


    If the benefits of his own promotion outweighed those of appointing someone else, then he would consent to his rise. If the benefits were lesser, he would refuse.


    Everything was that simple.


    Thus, having calculated Yan Chen''s psychology, Qiu Tu dared to come forward openly to negotiate.


    From the results, it appeared he had indeed not misjudged Yan Chen.


    Having achieved the most crucial objective of the night, Qiu Tu relaxed completely.


    Next, he just needed to endure a bit longer to complete his other "task" for the night: fabricating an alibi and framing Yan Chen.


    Ever since learning of the relationship between Jia Shu and Huang Shangzong from Tang Feifei and Liu Fuping, Qiu Tu had been pondering how to kill Jia Shu while attracting as little attention from Huang Shangzong as possible.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu decided that the most traditional and simplest method was best: creating an alibi and framing someone else.


    Creating an alibi was easy¡ªQiu Tu met with Yan Chen that evening, not at the scene of the attack on Jia Shu.


    Thus, at the very least, he was removed from the ranks of the suspects.


    As for the framing...


    When Qiu Tu visited Yan Chen that night, he had secretly brought a small recording device, capturing their entire conversation.


    This included the part where Qiu Tu informed Yan Chen of Jia Shu''s impending death, yet Yan Chen chose not to warn Jia Shu¡ªdocumenting the full sequence.


    This recording not only proved that Qiu Tu had no intention of killing Jia Shu but had even reported the situation upwards. It also proved that it was Yan Chen''s delay that led to Jia Shu''s death...


    Qiu Tu''s entire plan for the evening was tightly interlinked in a seamless chain.


    Following that, Qiu Tu picked out a few minor pieces of information about Tang Feifei and Commissioner Jiang to share with Yan Chen.


    In this way, they talked for nearly half an hour more.


    Suddenly, the door to Yan Chen''s study was knocked upon with an urgent "bang bang bang". Secretary Bai then pushed through the door and briskly walked in.


    Clearly in possession of urgent news, he didn''t even wait for Yan Chen''s nod before bypassing protocol and approaching Yan Chen.


    However, both Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had guessed what the news might be, so they exchanged a glance and remained silent.


    Approaching Yan Chen, Secretary Bai whispered, "Bureau Chief, the Political Department has just reported that the car transporting Jia Shu was ambushed on leaving Xinjie City."


    "The assailants used high-caliber rifles to spray the entire vehicle with bullets and set it ablaze."


    "Jia Shu and Commissioner Huang''s driver are both dead."


    Upon hearing Secretary Bai''s report, Yan Chen had yet to respond when Qiu Tu''s thoughts drifted afar...


    His mind turned to Jia Wei...


    ---------


    Today there are 3 chapters of 10,000 words. I''ve been a bit busy these last few days, so the third chapter will probably update between 22:00 and 23:00. During the double points period, I''m asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 248 - 203: The Death of Jia Wei! (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Qiu Tu hadn''t been bragging in front of Liu Fuping. Yesterday, when he spoke on the phone with Liu Xiongyuan, he indeed conquered the old man in just 1 minute.


    While Liu Xiongyuan obviously doubted the source of Qiu Tu''s information and his capabilities, Qiu Tu took over the phone call with Liu Xiongyuan and said just one sentence.


    "Nevermind whether I''m using you as a cat''s-paw, nor who the real culprit is. Since both of them are suspects, how about I help you kill them both?"


    With just that simple sentence, Liu Xiongyuan was willing to continue the conversation with Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu spoke very directly in his conversation with Liu Xiongyuan.


    After piquing Liu Xiongyuan''s interest, he immediately asked a question, which was to what extent was Liu Xiongyuan willing to go to avenge his son''s murder.


    Liu Xiongyuan''s answer was also very simple. That was ''Life''.


    Given that, Qiu Tu didn''t hold back. He frankly told Liu Xiongyuan that he wasn''t sure who the real culprit was.


    Was it Jia Shu? Or was it Jia Wei? Perhaps only the two brothers themselves knew the truth.


    But no matter, since Jia Shu was someone Qiu Tu wanted to kill, and Jia Wei was the one Liu Xiongyuan had always wanted to kill.


    As long as the two of them were taken out, both Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu would achieve their goals.


    Killing Jia Shu was relatively simple. Just call in the troops and arm them.


    A batch of rifles was hard to come by for Qiu Tu, a rare and difficult feat.


    However, for Liu Xiongyuan, who had been entrenched in the Planning Area for over a decade, it was nothing but a piece of cake.


    Therefore, all Qiu Tu needed to do was tell Liu Xiongyuan the approximate time of Jia Shu''s release and the likely route in advance, and Liu Xiongyuan could set up an ambush ahead of time, sweeping him away in a short period!


    Compared to Jia Shu, killing Jia Wei was much more difficult.


    After all, Jia Wei''s Cataclysmic ability was creating doppelg?ngers, and each one was not weak in strength.


    Only by killing all of the doppelg?ngers could Jia Wei possibly die for good.


    As for the number of Jia Wei''s doppelg?ngers, Qiu Tu had already calculated that there was a high probability of there being six.


    Out of these six, one had been captured by Qiu Tu, one had escaped on the night he was attacked, and three had been caught by Tang Feifei.


    Only one, who had disguised itself as Jia Shu, remained unaccounted for.


    Thus, the most important thing was to figure out where the doppelg?nger that had disguised itself as Jia Shu that night had gone.


    Therefore, starting a few days ago, Qiu Tu had been racking his brain: If he were Jia Shu and Jia Wei, in order to create an alibi, where should he have gone that night?


    He thought of two places; the first was the Investigation Bureau Office Building, to show his face in front of everyone at work. The second was... Yan Chen''s place.


    After all, as long as he could meet with Yan Chen, the highest official of the Investigation Bureau, and earn his trust, then that would be enough.


    Consequently, Qiu Tu started to investigate whether Jia Shu had come to see Yan Chen on the night of the attack.


    Soon, through Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu learned that a "Jia Shu" did indeed visit Yan Chen that night.


    But because it was a fake, Yan Chen killed it.


    This left only the last doppelg?nger on the run.


    The only problem now was how to lure out this fugitive.


    The method was simple and fit in neatly with the plan: Qiu Tu would tell Larilo about the plot to kill Jia Shu.


    And since Larilo needed Jia Wei''s cooperation to work with Qiu Tu on the case, she would definitely inform Jia Wei of the plan to kill Jia Shu.


    Given Jia Wei''s personality and his hatred towards his older brother, if his brother were to be killed, he would be 100% sure to be there to witness it!


    Not for any purpose, just for a satisfying feeling!


    So even though Jia Wei knew that his last doppelg?nger was extremely valuable and possibly related to his life safety, he would still make an appearance!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu also told Liu Xiongyuan to make a slightly bigger commotion during his preparations to "inform" Jia Wei of the ambush location.


    And when Jia Shu was attacked, it would be best for Liu Xiongyuan to use either Investigation Type or Tracking Type Cataclysmic treasures to scan all the hills and treetops within a 5-kilometer radius! Jia Wei would certainly be there!


    And once the last doppelg?nger roaming outside was taken out, Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei on the other end would also work together to kill Jia Wei''s four other doppelg?ngers...


    In this way, with the six bodies of Jia Wei completely destroyed, the probability was that he was dead beyond any doubt.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look outside the study.


    He wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but Qiu Tu always felt as if something in the darkness outside the study was faintly watching him, giving him a chilling sensation...


    But when he tried to look closely, it seemed as if he saw nothing at all.


    ''Maybe it''s just an illusion?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but continue to wonder, ''Feifei and Fuping must have made their move by now, right?''


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Investigation Bureau Political Department Guard Room.


    The underground guard room at Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei each led their people inside.


    Since Qiu Tu had already given word in advance for Liu Fuping, the Guard Room Detective Wang Dawei, eager to defect to Qiu Tu''s side, eagerly opened the door to Jia Wei''s room for Liu Fuping and the others.


    At this moment, Jia Wei sat on the bed with a face full of fury, clearly incensed over the recent death of his clone....


    Seeing Liu Fuping enter, Jia Wei''s expression turned ferocious as he snapped, "What are you doing here!?"


    "Get out!"


    However, Liu Fuping ignored Jia Wei''s impotent rage.


    She took out a document and said, "Jia Wei, you are guilty of robbing the pharmacy, murder, and dishonoring someone''s wife and daughter, multiple offenses combined."


    "After trial by the investigation team leader Qiu Tu and signed off by Deputy Director Tang, you are now sentenced to death!"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Jia Wei was visibly stunned. He opened his mouth wanting to say something, but by then Eagle and Ah-Tai had already stepped forward, covering his mouth and restraining his body!


    Although he was a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, having become a criminal, he had to be injected daily with various sedatives to weaken his body. Plus, Ah-Tai possessed innate Divine Power.


    Thus, even as Jia Wei struggled desperately, he was still unable to prevent Liu Fuping from injecting him with the lethal potion.


    As the potion slowly entered his system, Jia Wei''s struggles intensified, but soon after, he quieted down.....


    At the same time, in the basement of Tang Feifei''s villa. Tang Feifei walked out of the basement expressionless, holding three heads in her hands.


    Behind her, three bodies lay in pools of blood.


    In just a few short minutes, all five of Jia Wei''s clones were slaughtered!


    After the last clone was killed, suddenly, the five bodies rapidly decayed, as if undergoing the rotting process of more than ten days in just a few minutes, quickly becoming rank and putrid....


    At this moment, the people standing in front of those five bodies all experienced a momentary daze, deeply affected.


    During that moment, it was as if they could faintly hear a woman''s shrill cursing and screaming!


    ......


    Meanwhile, in the study of Yan Chen''s Garden Villa.


    After Secretary Bai completed his report, Yan Chen remained expressionless, yet if one looked closely into his eyes, they would detect a hint of a smile within them. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, Jia Shu was truly dead which proved that his archenemy had completely sided against Huang Shangzong. He could now sit back and watch the drama unfold with ease. Secondly, Qiu Tu had proven his intelligence to be of value.


    With these thoughts, after dismissing Secretary Bai, Yan Chen reiterated his promise, "Qiu Tu, your undercover work alongside Jiang Pengfei and Tang Feifei has been very impressive."


    "Continue with your plans as you see fit."


    "As for your appointment as deputy head of the government department, rest assured. After a simple formality, I will not oppose the Diciplinary Department and City Hall''s nomination."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu, who had perfectly accomplished both of his tasks for the day, quickly bowed in gratitude, "Thank you, Bureau Chief!"


    Yan Chen nodded slightly at the words, then waved his hand, "Go on, you should also get some rest now."


    "I still have to deal with the aftermath of tonight''s events."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu bowed to him once again and then finally left the study.


    Outside the study, Secretary Bai was waiting. He nodded to Qiu Tu as he came out, then gestured to lead Qiu Tu away.


    On their way out, Secretary Bai suddenly asked, "Did you kill Jia Shu?"


    Some things can be discussed openly, but others, even with the closest of confidants, must remain unsaid.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu decisively shook his head, "No, it wasn''t me."


    Secretary Bai did not pursue the matter further, and after seeing Qiu Tu out through the side door, he softly said, "Stay safe."


    Qiu Tu nodded at Secretary Bai and then left the Garden Villa to go to his car.


    Indeed, he had eliminated both Jia Shu and Jia Wei tonight.


    But... this had brought him a significant hidden danger: he was now completely at odds with Larilo.


    So, he still had to address this looming threat....


    ---------


    Still 3 chapters and 10,000 words today. I''m a bit busy these days, the 3rd chapter will probably update between 10 and 11 pm. Double periods, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 249 - 204: Tugging at the Heretic Goddess Girls Emotions (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    ```


    With those thoughts, Qiu Tu stepped away from Yan Chen''s City Center Garden Villa.


    However, just as Qiu Tu had walked three or four meters away.


    Suddenly, he heard Secretary Bai''s voice behind him, "Qiu Tu."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s voice, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn around, looking at Secretary Bai with a bit of surprise, not understanding why Secretary Bai had called out to him.


    Then he saw Secretary Bai quietly looking at him for two or three seconds before slowly beginning to speak,"The Bureau Chief''s wife died a few years ago, and the Bureau Chief was devastated by grief."


    "At that time, the Qin Family approached him, took away the Bureau Chief''s wife''s genes, and then resurrected her..."


    After speaking that inexplicable sentence, Secretary Bai turned around expressionlessly, returned to the villa, and closed the side door.


    As the side door closed with a clang, the entire street became instantly silent.


    In the pitch-dark night, Qiu Tu stood alone on the street, his gaze still on the spot where Secretary Bai had stood, filled with astonishment!


    Although Secretary Bai seemed to have revealed nothing and merely related an anecdote, the significance of this anecdote was too great!


    Before this, Qiu Tu had already known that Old Master Qin had been buying over middle and high-level managers of the Planning Area and the United Front using the "Cloning Female Body" technology.


    He also knew that Old Master Qin once helped a general of the United Front "revive" his wife.


    But he really hadn''t expected that the genes used for "Qin Shuman''s" body would actually be Madam Yan Chen''s!


    The implications of this were utterly different.


    If "Qin Shuman" was just a regular mistress, even one created by the Qin Family to please Yan Chen, at most she would still be a ''plaything''.


    If Qiu Tu''s position was high enough and the benefits were big enough, there could always be room to mitigate this matter.


    Yan Chen would not have a conflict with Qiu Tu over a mistress or ''plaything'' with whom he had no emotional foundation.


    The thorn between the two men, along with time and their cooperation, would eventually vanish.


    This had always been Qiu Tu''s plan.


    But... now, Secretary Bai had burst his "beautiful dream."


    If "Qin Shuman''s" body truly originated from Yan Chen and carried his emotional attachment, then that grudge had become very real indeed!


    ''Damn it!'' Qiu Tu cursed silently in his heart and knew he would have to adjust his strategy towards Yan Chen.


    He couldn''t think about slowly reconciling as he had before...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu grumbled to himself while making several turns, and got into his car.


    Driving the car and following the address given by Lin Zuo, Qiu Tu soon arrived at the entrance of a small villa near Longshan Road.


    He turned off the engine, stopped the car, and got out.


    Approaching the front door of the villa, Qiu Tu knocked.


    Soon, the door was opened from the inside.


    One of Qin Shuman''s subordinates, the new chief of the Investigation Department at the Security Bureau, Lin Zuo, stood in front of Qiu Tu.


    Still with his cold and aloof manner, Lin Zuo''s eyes showed no flicker of emotion upon seeing Qiu Tu, as if Qiu Tu owed him five million yuan.


    After opening the door for Qiu Tu, he turned and walked towards the living room.


    Qiu Tu closed the door behind him and followed along.


    Arriving at the living room, there sat a small, exquisite black safe on the coffee table.


    Lin Zuo sat down on the sofa, took the safe, began to input the code to unlock it, and asked in a seemingly unconcerned manner,"Do you know... Jia Shu is dead?"


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu was not surprised.


    Compared to the Investigation Bureau, the military''s intelligence network was clearly more developed.


    Moreover, Jia Shu was one of Xinjie City''s high-level officials, a person of interest to all sides.


    So when something happened to him, all parties in Xinjie City immediately knew, which was not surprising.


    However, knowing it was one thing, guessing it was related to oneself was another matter.


    Inwardly, Qiu Tu raised Lin Zuo in his estimation and then denied it, "What? Minister Jia is dead? How did he die?"


    As a seasoned actor, Qiu Tu''s acting was quite excellent.


    So when Lin Zuo examined Qiu Tu''s face for several moments, he still couldn''t see anything amiss.


    He could only continue probing,"He was ambushed by a group of men in black."


    "He didn''t even get to use his cataclysmic ability before being covered by concentrated fire and killed."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said with a look of shock,"That group of criminals is too bold!


    "To actually dare to ambush a former high-level official of our Investigation Bureau!"


    "That''s clearly disrespect for our Investigation Bureau!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Lin Zuo took a deep look at Qiu Tu and said,"Last time, Jia Shu was plotting to kill you. Shouldn''t you be happy that he''s dead?"


    Qiu Tu looked at him with a smile,"How could I not be happy? I''m just short of setting off firecrackers to celebrate."


    "But... private matters aside, official matters should remain official."


    "Although Minister Jia and I had a grudge, he was indeed a former high-up of our Investigation Bureau."


    "His death pleases me, but it also shocks me."


    Qiu Tu''s response and performance were flawless, and Lin Zuo could not spot any flaws.


    Just then, the safe had been opened. So Lin Zuo fell silent, instead taking out a very finely crafted small bowl from inside.


    The small bowl was made of white jade, pure and flawless, with a pool of clear water inside.


    Lin Zuo introduced it,"The ''Purifying Jade Bowl,'' a somewhat special Cataclysmic treasure."


    "It has only one function: to remove the positioning marks left by cataclysmic creatures."


    "It''s also because we had this cataclysmic treasure that we dared to let you take the risk of contacting Larilo."


    "After all, even if you encountered any danger with Larilo, we could cut your connection with her any time."


    With that, Lin Zuo carried the bowl to the villa''s first-floor bathroom where Qiu Tu followed.


    Upon arrival, the bathtub was already filled with hot water.


    Lin Zuo poured the water from the ''Purifying Jade Bowl'' into the tub.


    The water, originally transparent, turned a pale gold as soon as it blended with the other water in the tub, quickly spreading throughout the entire bathtub and turning the whole tub golden.


    Seeing this, Lin Zuo put the bowl back into the black safe and then told Qiu Tu,"Alright, just soak in it for 10 minutes, and all the marks from cataclysmic creatures on you will be cleansed."


    ```


    "After this, Larilo won''t be able to pull you into a dream anymore."


    Hearing Lin Zuo''s words, Qiu Tu sincerely expressed his gratitude, "Thanks a lot."


    Lin Zuo nonchalantly waved his hand, "No problem. I was just following orders."


    After saying that, he turned around and was ready to exit the bathroom.


    However, just as he had one foot out of the bathroom, he suddenly paused.


    He said, "Qiu Tu... there are actually some taboos on the political scene. For example... you can defeat but not kill."


    "The assassination of Jia Shu may very well touch the nerves of all parties involved."


    After speaking, he didn''t wait for Qiu Tu''s reply or reaction, and turned around to leave the bathroom.


    Watching his retreating figure, Qiu Tu maintained a poker face, but inside, he shook his head with a wry smile.


    He didn''t know the huge repercussions of killing Jia Shu?


    But if he had other choices, why would he possibly choose this path?


    Was it like he willingly became an enemy of Yan Chen?


    If it weren''t for the intelligence provided by Secretary Bai tonight, he probably would have even considered finding an opportunity to make a complete reconciliation with Yan Chen...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shook his head, then locked the bathroom door from the inside and began to undress.


    After undressing, Qiu Tu found that the bathroom was well stocked with towels and a change of clothes.


    ''It seems Lin Zuo really has the potential to be a great steward. He''s taken care of every detail.''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu stepped into the bathtub.


    The golden liquid slowly submerged his body, washing away all the marks of the Evil God...


    In a daze, Qiu Tu seemed to hear Larilo''s piercing scream and curses!


    Clearly, Qiu Tu had first "betrayed", plotted to kill her most important follower, and now had cleansed the traces of her dream entry, completely breaking free from her control, infuriating her greatly!


    For Larilo, tonight was a huge failure!


    And it also allowed Qiu Tu to finally relax completely: previously, he had put himself in the game, using himself as bait to lure Larilo and set up Jia Shu and Jia Wei, living in constant fear every day!


    Worrying about being pulled into a dream by Larilo at any time, Qiu Tu didn''t even dare to sleep at night!


    And so, after completely dealing with the brothers Jia Shu and Jia Wei, Qiu Tu had finally removed the crisis of Larilo''s dream invasion.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the Crisis Countdown in the upper left corner of his vision.


    After he had done all this, the countdown in the upper left corner indeed underwent some changes.


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (7 days)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (¡Þ)]


    [Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)]


    The original [Commitment to the Evil God], which only had 2 days left, slowly became infinity, just like the Threat in the Darkness...


    This was something that had never happened before.


    Previous Crisis Countdowns either froze, or were completed and triggered the next one. It was the first time for such a direct change in time.


    Looking at the display on the Crisis Countdown, Qiu Tu, submerged in the bathtub, stroked his chin and pondered slowly.


    ''Is this telling me... the crisis has been temporarily delayed by my actions, but it hasn''t been overcome?''


    ''So... if Larilo finds another opportunity, as long as I don''t provide any intelligence, she will still come to kill me?''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu found the [Crisis Countdown] quite interesting.


    After all... this really matched his understanding of Larilo¡ª that Evil God clearly wasn''t one to easily forgive, and given how he had schemed against her, she certainly wouldn''t let him off the hook.


    ''Fortunately, I have made other preparations.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu indulged in the golden warm water, closed his eyes to rest, and began to recall and mentally rehearse the "Emotional Fraud Manual"...


    ...


    Meanwhile, while Qiu Tu was soaking in the bath,


    Lin Zuo was driving away from the secret base.


    On the road, Lin Zuo''s expression was profound.


    Even though Qiu Tu hadn''t shown any cracks in his expressions or actions from the time he entered until Lin Zuo left, he was, after all, a participant in the entire incident.


    So, he was almost 100% certain that Qiu Tu was behind it all.


    ''Boldly attacking a former high official of the Investigation Bureau...''


    ''Such decisiveness and ruthlessness!''


    Even Lin Zuo understood the importance of rooting out problems, but he also knew that if he were in Qiu Tu''s place, he definitely wouldn''t dare to make such a decision.


    With this thought, Lin Zuo couldn''t help but let out a deep sigh.


    ''That''s what it means to be someone cut out for great things. I really can''t compare...''


    Thinking this way, Lin Zuo felt as if he had shed some burden, making himself feel much lighter...


    ...


    After the bath and a rinse off, Qiu Tu dried himself and got dressed then headed to the bedroom and went straight to sleep.


    Indeed, without the mark of the Evil God, Larilo could no longer harass Qiu Tu.


    Thus, Qiu Tu''s sleep was extremely sweet and secure...


    The next morning, Qiu Tu got up feeling utterly refreshed, stretched his body, and felt that life was wonderful.


    After washing up and having a simple breakfast, Qiu Tu took out the ancient coin he had received from the ''Lone Wolf'' from his pocket.


    When does a person''s favorability toward another person increase the fastest?


    Of course, it''s... when you first let her fall into Hell, then lift her to Heaven.


    Yesterday, Qiu Tu had completely cut off his connection with Larilo and added to that the killing of Jia Wei, Larilo must have felt like she''d lost her consort as well as her troops, probably so angry she couldn''t sleep all night!


    If he now contacted Larilo and "switched sides" back to her, how would she react?


    And the Heretic Goddess Girl? Isn''t she still a woman after all? sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If she''s a woman, then she can be manipulated emotionally with the "Emotional Fraud Manual"!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu began to contact Larilo in the way he had seen in the Silver Key Bee, using the ancient coin...


    ------


    Three chapters with a total of 10,000 words haha. I will continue with 10,000 words tomorrow! Asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 250 - 205: Qiu Tu: I Like You (10,000 Words - Please Vote with Monthly Ticket!)

    Recalling the method Jia Wei used to contact Larilo.


    Qiu Tu fiddled with the coin, then rubbed the front side three times with his thumb, the back side four times, and finally placed the coin on the table, patiently waiting for a response.


    One second...two seconds...three seconds...


    He didn''t know if there was a problem with the steps, or if this communication required an advance reservation. Qiu Tu had waited a full minute and still, Larilo did not appear.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly.


    ''Rub? Could it be that this Treasure isn''t a standard one?''


    ''So it can''t be activated in the same way?''


    Qiu Tu was so certain he could contact Larilo because he speculated that given Larilo''s influence in the real world, it was improbable for her to use a non-standard Cataclysm Prop for communication.


    If it was a mass-produced standard communication prop, the chances were high that the method to use it would be the same.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu once again reviewed his logic.


    In the end, he chose to trust his speculation¡ªthe method of using the prop was correct!


    And if there was nothing wrong with the way the prop was used, then there were numerous possibilities why Larilo had not connected the call.


    Perhaps...now was inconvenient?


    Perhaps...the timing was incorrect?


    Or perhaps...this Ancient Coin could identify a person''s aura, and Larilo did not answer because she detected the wrong one attempting to contact her.


    But...regardless of the reason. As long as he continued trying, he would eventually make contact.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu started to contact Larilo over and over again...


    In this manner, Qiu Tu repeated the "dialing" process a total of seven or eight times.


    Just when he felt that his hand was about to rub the coin shiny, at last!


    The ancient coin slowly vapourized into the air, and Larilo''s head appeared within it!


    She was clearly furious, her entire face twisted with anger!


    Her eyes were ablaze, and her voice carried a bone-chilling coldness, "Didn''t I tell you not to contact me during the day!"


    "Contacting me over and over, are you testing my patience?!"


    "Do you believe I can make your soul never have a day of peace again! Let you suffer the pain of being struck by heavenly lightning every day!"


    After furiously scolding the "person contacting her," Larilo finally "saw" the person in front of her clearly!


    The next second, she paused, then her face filled with shock and disbelief, "Qiu Tu?!"


    "Why is it you?!"


    Possibly realizing her own lapse, Larilo hurriedly changed her expression back to a serious one.


    Her bronze-colored pupils looked at Qiu Tu, and she asked again, "You dare to contact me still?"


    Qiu Tu, having witnessed all of Larilo''s expressions and knowing his method had worked, felt very confident.


    He looked at Larilo, then smilingly said, "Your Highness, why would I not dare to contact you?"


    "Have you forgotten? I am to be your future Archbishop."


    Perhaps because it wasn''t an Enter Dream, Qiu Tu was not at all afraid that Larilo would hurt him in a rage, so he was incredibly relaxed. He even dared to use the promise Larilo had made to him as a counter-attack.


    Sure enough, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo let out two cold "hehe" laughs, ominously saying, "Archbishop... truly worthy of being my Archbishop."


    "Calculating both me and my followers into your scheme, playing us round and round!"


    "Do you know how many resources are needed to cultivate six Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened clones? Hehehe..."


    Larilo was evidently still on the verge of exploding, but Qiu Tu, who had already figured out how to pull at her emotions, was not concerned in the slightest.


    He sat on the large sofa of the villa, legs crossed, not as if meeting a deity but rather like he was listening to a subordinate''s report. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He stretched out a finger to analyze for Larilo, "Your Highness. I understand that you are angry with me."


    "But this blame can''t just be thrown on me willy-nilly."


    "First of all, the bodies you helped Jia Wei cultivate, one fell into the hands of the Investigation Bureau, one was killed by Yan Chen, and the other three are under the control of the Diciplinary Department."


    "Do you honestly think you can rescue them all?"


    "Stop dreaming. No Evil God Cultist who falls into the hands of the Sanctuary''s departments ever comes out alive."


    "I just had them detonate at the same time."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s emotions indeed stabilized a bit, but even so, she was still not letting Qiu Tu off the hook¡ªher beautiful almond-shaped eyes staring fixedly at him.


    Probably because it was a remote communication, if she were in front of Qiu Tu now, she would have already flayed him alive!


    After all, not only had her follower, whom she invested so many resources into training, died, but her entire face was almost battered to a pulp by Qiu Tu!


    Last night, after discovering that she had been betrayed by Qiu Tu, she started to retrace his recent actions.


    Soon, she discovered all sorts of clues!


    Thus, she finally confirmed that Qiu Tu had never planned to side with her from the start, nor had he ever thought about cooperating with her! He was simply using her!


    Such a discovery was like trampling her dignity as a High Order Cataclysmic Creature into the mud! How could she not hate Qiu Tu!


    So, now hearing Qiu Tu so bluntly talk about killing her follower, her rage was even more inflamed!


    Her voice, as if squeezing through her teeth bit by bit, questioned, "Why would you do this?"


    "What benefit do you get from killing Jia Wei!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu actually propped his chin in thought.


    After a moment, as if finally finding a reason, his eyes lit up, and then he said, "Your Highness!"


    "Before, I actually didn''t know why I insisted on killing Jia Wei."


    "It was you who reminded me, everything must have a purpose, right?"


    "So, since I did it, there must be a reason in my heart."


    "Therefore, I thought for a long time, analyzing my heart, and finally found the reason!"


    Qiu Tu sincerely said, "Maybe... I don''t want to be an Archbishop, but aspire to become the Pope! I want to be your right-hand man on the Road to Godhood! To be the confidant of your life! Your partner!"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu earnestly said, "Your Highness, I... like you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo was dumbfounded.


    Even as a High Order Cataclysmic Creature, possessing human-like intelligence and emotions, Qiu Tu''s series of tricky moves still left her somewhat confused.


    ''Like me¡­ so remove the people around me?''


    ''Oh¡­ remove the men around me.''


    ''Does this even make sense?''


    ''Like me, so doesn''t want to be an Archbishop, but wants to be the Pope?''


    ''Likes me, so erases my mark?''


    Larilo felt that such logic was utterly shitty, making no sense at all!


    She was intent on scolding Qiu Tu again, but when the words came to her lips, she realized she had somehow become momentarily speechless¡­


    After all¡­ although the situation was indeed bizarre, it somehow seemed barely explainable?


    ''What''s wrong with me? Why am I starting to make excuses for Qiu Tu?''


    Larilo felt she was becoming a little weird.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu keenly noticed the change in Larilo''s state.


    He kept his facial expression unchanged, but inside he was somewhat snickering.


    Emotional Fraud Manual, 108 ways to enhance a relationship number 49: Women are an "egotistical" emotional creature.


    Once they discover that you are a "suitor" of theirs, although they may become aloof and seem even more unapproachable,


    ...in reality, they will be more tolerant of some things you do and also pay more attention to you.


    So, when you find that you have annoyed a woman, just directly "confess" to her. She will be momentarily dazzled and start to reanalyze the whole matter.


    Note: This "confession" is a false confession, please do not continue any further pursuit. Otherwise, you will become a sycophant and it will be counterproductive.


    Note 2: This method is for the use of scumbags flirting only. Do not use for other purposes.


    Recalling the record from the Emotional Fraud Manual, and given Larilo''s current bewildered state, how could Qiu Tu not guess that Larilo was suffering from an overload of shock to her brain?


    He believed that Larilo must already be questioning her life by now. But... just this was still not enough.


    He had made Larilo fall into hell last night, and this morning was meant to make her soar to heaven.


    So, he paused, and then said, "Your Highness, perhaps my confession just now was too sudden, making it somewhat difficult for you to understand or accept."


    "But all of that is my true feelings."


    Qiu Tu said, "Moreover, I have never betrayed you."


    "Don''t you want to know the exact time when Moonlight Lake will become fully solidified?"


    "Actually, I have already figured it out for you."


    ------

 Chapter 251 - 206: Evil God: Qiu Tu is My Devout Believer (10,000 Words, Please Subscribe!)

    If Larilo had felt just now that the entire affair''s twist left her a bit bewildered,


    now, she felt truly shocked to the point of stupefaction.


    ''What did Qiu Tu say?''


    ''He didn''t betray us?''


    ''How could he have the audacity to say such a thing?''


    ''What? He completed the mission I gave him and discovered the exact timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment?''


    ''Then... maybe it''s really possible that he didn''t betray us?''


    At this thought, Larilo felt her mind a mess for a moment.


    However, she suppressed her wild thoughts and started discussing the matter at hand.


    She asked, "You say you have figured out the timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment?"


    "When will it be?"


    Qiu Tu said earnestly, "In four days."


    Qiu Tu said, "You might not know, but I actually have some connections in the Security Department."


    "I can get some inside information."


    "Yesterday, we happened to talk about Moonlight Lake and, with a few probing questions, I successfully obtained this intelligence."


    He paused, then continued, "My friend mentioned that the aura emitted by Moonlight Lake is getting stronger and there are already signs of it coalescing."


    "Thus, through investigation and calculation, they determined that the estimated time for Moonlight Lake''s formation should be in four days."


    "To prevent the news from leaking, and to avoid anyone coming to steal the ''Tears of Moonlight'', both the Xinjie City Military Department and the Eastern City Military Department dispatched a battalion of troops to encamp around Moonlight Lake."


    "They''ve surrounded Moonlight Lake from the inside out."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo furrowed her brows tightly, temporarily forgetting to continue the topic of Qiu Tu''s betrayal.


    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Is this true?"


    Qiu Tu nodded sincerely, "Of course it''s true."


    ... As if.


    Of course, this was all made up by Qiu Tu!


    Although Qiu Tu had a good relationship with Qin Shuman, they always maintained a bottom line with each other: not to pry into each other''s work.


    So, even though yesterday Qiu Tu happened to bring up Moonlight Lake with Qin Shuman,


    and Qin Shuman happened to mention that there had been recent movements at Moonlight Lake and that both city''s military departments had already begun deploying troops,


    she didn''t reveal the actual time of Moonlight Lake''s congealment or the strength of the troops sent by the military departments.


    However, with these small details, it was sufficient for Qiu Tu to fabricate a logically coherent fraud.


    After all, the "Crisis Countdown" only required him to resolve difficulties within a time limit and fulfill his promise to Larilo¡ªto obtain the timing of Moonlight Lake''s congealment.


    But it didn''t require that the timing he provided be real...


    In any case... Larilo had no way to verify it with someone else. So, this became the "real" timing!


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this way, possibly because Qiu Tu''s acting was too convincing, Larilo hesitated for a few seconds before finally nodding and praising, "Well done, I didn''t expect you, Qiu Tu, to really get such a high-level secret."


    She continued to lure him as usual, "Rest assured, as long as you can keep this up, the title of Pope will definitely be yours in the future!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Your Highness, becoming the Pope is only my dream."


    "What I truly wish for is to be by your side at all times."


    "So, please don''t doubt me any longer."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu took the opportunity while the iron was hot to explain the reasons behind his actions from the day before.


    He said, "As for Jia Wei''s death, I won''t say much. I really was jealous that he could always accompany you."


    "Furthermore, as Liu Xiongyuan disagreed with only killing Jia Shu and insisted on killing both brothers together, that''s why I betrayed him to Liu Xiongyuan."


    After a pause, Qiu Tu said, "After all, there will always be sacrifices on the path to fulfilling your grand ambitions."


    "So why couldn''t the sacrifice be Jia Wei?"


    "Therefore, once I decided to sacrifice him, I made my decision: to suffer Jia Wei''s agony, to bear the infamy myself! To spare you any discomfort." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After finishing, Qiu Tu pointed at his own body, then said, "Additionally, you must have been angered by me removing your Summoning signs last night, right?"


    Although Qiu Tu posed it as a question, he didn''t wait for Larilo''s reply and directly said, "Your Highness, you have truly misunderstood me there."


    "The reason I was investigating you was actually all the Security Department''s doing,"


    "They knew I had been marked by you, so when the incident was briefly resolved, they were bound to help me get rid of the mark."


    "Honestly, I didn''t want to remove this mark, but I had absolutely no say in the matter; I had no choice."


    "If I objected, it might even reveal my identity."


    "That''s why my summoning mark was cleansed."


    At this point, Qiu Tu even proactively extended his hand, then said, "If you don''t believe me, you can mark me again."


    "I absolutely won''t resist!"


    After hearing Qiu Tu explain the entire "ins and outs" of the situation, Larilo couldn''t shake off the feeling that something was odd, but had to admit that everything Qiu Tu said was logically consistent.


    ''So... could it all really be just a misunderstanding?''


    ''Has Qiu Tu truly become my devout follower?''


    For the first time, Larilo felt her brain wasn''t up to the task...


    But since Qiu Tu had told her the time of the Moonlight Lake''s convergence, she could just wait a couple of days to see if the information was accurate, and use that to determine Qiu Tu''s allegiance.


    After all... there were only four days left.


    And so, like that, Qiu Tu once again briefly earned Larilo''s trust, and because he didn''t need the summoning mark anymore, he no longer had to live in fear in his dreams.


    Qiu Tu planned to find a way to communicate more with Larilo in the next two days, locate her current body, and then resolve her once and for all!


    And if he couldn''t find her?


    Then Qiu Tu would just toss away the ancient coin, just like last night, and have no further dealings with Larilo.


    ¡ªAfter all, Larilo had no way of dealing with him now.


    With that in mind, after hanging up the communication with Larilo, Qiu Tu tidied up, put on his uniform, fastened his buttons, and then drove away from the villa complex.


    Arriving at the Investigation Bureau Office Building, the lobby on the first floor was exceptionally lively today, with agents from various departments discussing gossip in groups.


    Out of curiosity, Qiu Tu listened in and heard them discussing the new candidates for Minister and Deputy Minister of the Political Department.


    "Have you heard? First thing this morning, the Bureau Chief called the high-ranking officials to a long meeting in the conference room."


    "The main purpose was because Minister Jia was dismissed, which led to adjustments in the Political Department."


    "I''ve heard the reshuffle will be significant. Not only do they need to select a Minister from among the Deputy Ministers, but they also have to pick a Deputy Minister from among the staff chiefs. Then, a Deputy Staff will take over the position of the vacant staff chief..."


    "So a lot of positions will open up."


    Another person replied, "Yeah, yeah. I heard about it too."


    "Who do you think it will be?"


    The first agent thought for a moment, then said, "For the Minister, I definitely favor Minister Cai. After all, he''s currently in charge of running the Political Department, and he hasn''t made any major blunders."


    "These points show that he is capable and has the appreciation of the Bureau Chief behind him."


    "As for the position of Deputy Minister... I think Section Chief Guan from the Espionage Division seems very promising."


    "After all, espionage is one of the biggest operations in the Political Department. Plus, she''s a long-standing member there."


    Upon hearing this, another agent countered, "I think Deputy Division Chief Xin has a better chance."


    "The Action Division is the ace division of the Political Department. And he has worked in the Action Division for many years, which makes him a strong competitor."


    Hearing the agent''s counter-argument, another agent chimed in to rebut, "Isn''t it possible that they''ll bring in a chief officer of Deputy Division Chief level from another department?"


    "The Political Department is one of the ace divisions in the Bureau, not only powerful but also high-ranked."


    "All the Deputy Division Chiefs from various departments are probably fighting tooth and nail to get in there."


    "With such a great opportunity now, they won''t give up."


    As Qiu Tu walked, he listened. He almost got the full rundown of the candidates from these agents'' discussions.


    The only pity was... among the many agents discussing the Deputy Minister candidates, not a single one thought he could become Deputy Minister.


    After all, in the eyes of most ordinary agents, Qiu Tu had risen too quickly recently. Constantly skipping levels, he had no chance of competing for such an important position this time.


    And let''s not forget... Qiu Tu had just had a falling out with Yan Chen.


    In choosing a Deputy Minister, Yan Chen had a veto vote.


    As long as Yan Chen didn''t agree, Qiu Tu had no chance of becoming Deputy Minister!


    ------

 Chapter 252 - 207: Borrowing Your Secretary to Have Some Fun (10,000 Words for Subscription)

    ''It seems they really don''t think highly of me,''


    ''So when the news that I''m going to be the Deputy Division Chief comes out, it will definitely shock everyone to the core, won''t it?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu walked towards the elevator, preparing to patiently wait for the news on the 9th floor.


    Just as the elevator doors were slowly closing, leaving only a sliver of an opening, suddenly! A large hand violently grasped the elevator doors.


    Feeling the obstruction, the doors shuddered violently and then slowly reopened.


    Noticing the unexpected, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the elevator entrance.


    Then he saw the slowly reopening doors reveal a man in a plain green uniform with three bars on his shoulder standing there.


    It was none other than Qiu Tu''s defeated opponent from a few days prior: Zheng Tao.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s expression did not change at all, as if the person who had been "slapped" in the face just a few days ago wasn''t him.


    Since they belonged to different departments, and it wasn''t a formal meeting, Qiu Tu didn''t salute but merely nodded slightly and then greeted, "Director Zheng, you''re late today. That''s not like you."


    "You normally..."


    "shouldn''t you be working overtime late into the night, never leaving the office?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s forehead veins twitched slightly. Then he snorted softly, ignoring Qiu Tu''s mockery and walked straight into the elevator.


    The elevator doors slowly closed, and this time no one else came to interrupt.


    So, in the slowly ascending enclosed space, there were only Qiu Tu and Zheng Tao.


    Whether it was the awkwardness of sharing the same space or Zheng Tao being annoyed by Qiu Tu''s earlier sarcasm was unclear.


    After staring at the elevator doors for two seconds, Zheng Tao slowly began, "Chief Qiu, although we''re both ''chiefs'', my position is one level higher than yours."


    "You are in fact just a normal Principal Staff."


    "So, in the presence of a superior, you should show respect."


    Seeing Qiu Tu remain unmoved, Zheng Tao continued with a cold face, "Moreover, don''t think that there''s just a one-level difference between us, but between Principal Staff and Deputy Division Chief there is an insurmountable chasm!"


    "Do you know? As soon as you become a division chief, even if only a Deputy Division Chief, you will have access to a luxurious villa and sedan provided by the City Hall in the city center."


    "You''ll have dedicated housekeepers, drivers, and secretaries."


    "And moreover, all of your daily necessities will be supplied through special channels! You can say that in terms of clothing, food, housing, and transportation, there is absolutely no need to worry."


    "You''ll be enjoying the top resources of Xinjie City."


    Having said that, he glanced at Qiu Tu once more and said coldly, "And you?"


    "If I remember correctly, the car you''re driving now was swindled from Director Qin, wasn''t it?"


    "I saw it yesterday; not only is the body beaten up, but even the window glass is shattered."


    "Also, you are still living in a tube building in the slum area, right? It must be unpleasant stepping over filthy sewage and garbage every day to and from work, isn''t it?"


    "Your boots have also suffered along with you."


    "Moreover, although your position is Principal Staff, since you haven''t officially taken over the work of the Action Division, you don''t even have your own office. Generally, you have to use an empty conference room for phone calls and meetings, right?"


    "Hmm... As for a dedicated secretary or driver, there''s no need to mention that."


    "Now, do you understand the gap between us?"


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu actually understood Zheng Tao quite well:


    It was nothing more than the fact that he had slapped Zheng Tao''s face so hard yesterday, causing him to lose face and prestige throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    So, upon seeing him this morning, Zheng Tao wanted to strike at him from another angle to regain some of that lost face.


    But the angle he chose was clearly wrong.


    Let alone the fact that he had just changed villas yesterday, there was the matter of the Deputy Division Chief position...


    He was about to get promoted as well.


    This wasn''t going to hit him at all!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also looked towards Zheng Tao and then said with a smile, "You''re absolutely right, Director Zheng." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "As a former subordinate of yours, I am greatly inspired. That''s why I''ve decided to work hard to rise another level, to reach the same heights as you."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu, as if he just remembered something, suddenly said, "Oh right, didn''t the Political Department just recently have a Deputy Division Chief position open up?"


    "I think it suits me perfectly!"


    "In a moment, I''ll have a chat with the Bureau Chief to see if I can get that position."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao was stunned for a moment, then looked at him with disdain as if he were crazy.


    Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department?


    Qiu Tu was dreaming an impossible dream.


    Despite the fact that this position''s rank is the same as a Deputy Division Chief, the value and authority it holds are the highest among all Deputy Division Level positions.


    Forget about the heads of various government departments, even he, the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau, wanted to compete for it. There was even more interest from senior Deputy Division Chiefs of other departments.


    So, there was no way it was Qiu Tu''s turn.


    However... as a dignified person, Zheng Tao had just "counterattacked" Qiu Tu a couple of times, which was already quite extraordinary.


    So, even though he felt that Qiu Tu was delusional, he just gave Qiu Tu a cold look and couldn''t be bothered to engage with him anymore.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t the type to be unrelenting when he had the upper hand, so seeing that Zheng Tao had given up, he didn''t stimulate him further.


    Soon, the elevator rose to the second floor, and the doors slowly opened.


    Zheng Tao stepped out of the elevator.


    But just as he was already stepping out, Zheng Tao suddenly stopped in his tracks.

 Chapter 253 - 207: Borrowing Your Secretary to Have Some Fun (10,000 Words for Subscription)_2

    It seemed he couldn''t quite hold it back, so he turned his head towards Qiu Tu and said expressionlessly, "You can''t possibly get promoted. So the gap between us can never be bridged."


    Qiu Tu didn''t expect Zheng Tao to actually make a parting shot.


    He laughed, then confidently put his hands in his pockets and asked, "What''s the wager?"


    Zheng Tao, "You suggest."


    Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered, "You have a dedicated secretary, right?"


    "Lend me your secretary... for two days of fun."


    "Oh, right, and your driver and your car as well."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao''s face turned an ugly shade of red.


    He didn''t agree immediately but coldly glanced at Qiu Tu and said, "You''ve been promoted to deputy director, you''ll have your own dedicated secretary, driver, and car, what do you want mine for?"


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly spread his hands, "Can''t I want two?"


    He said, "Two secretaries, two drivers, two cars¡ªwhat a show of status!"


    "One secretary accompanying me, another carrying my dog. One car driving me, another transporting my dog."


    "Just thinking about it makes me happy!"


    Zheng Tao was so furious his face turned purple!


    He snorted coldly and stormed off!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu laughed loudly "Ha ha," and then called out after him, "So, are we betting or not, Director Zheng?"


    From a distance, came Zheng Tao''s voice squeezed through clenched teeth, "Bet!"


    Seeing that Zheng Tao actually took the bet, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, feeling that yesterday''s events really got to Zheng Tao.


    Such a calm person actually dared to gamble with him at a moment when nothing was certain.


    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu suddenly considered another possibility:


    Shit! Zheng Tao''s secretary isn''t an ugly monster, is she?!


    ''Damn... I should have inquired beforehand before making my move.''


    ''I''m still too young!''


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Zheng Tao, fuming with anger, angrily returned to his second-floor office.


    He pushed the door open.


    In the office, a beautiful woman in her thirties was wiping the table.


    She was dressed in a black pencil skirt and white blouse. Her figure was curvy and her posture supple.


    Perhaps because her curves were so enchanting, even the simplest of business attire was worn with endless charm.


    Hearing the door open, she lifted her heavy upper body and then turned her head to look over.


    Seeing it was Zheng Tao, she smiled and greeted him warmly, "You''re back? How was the talk with the Special Service Department? Did you get upset?"


    Hearing the woman''s familiar concern, Zheng Tao didn''t feel the slightest bit happy. He frowned and said sharply, "I''ve told you many times!"


    "This is the Investigation Bureau! Not at home!"


    "You are my subordinate, not my wife!"


    "When you see me, you should address me by my position, salute, greet properly!"


    "I''ll let it slide since there''s no one else around today. But if others were present, who knows what rumors might start flying!"


    "If I then leave an impression on the Bureau Chief that I can''t separate public from private matters, that I don''t focus on my work, how am I supposed to advance, how am I supposed to carry out my duties!" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he said this, perhaps thinking of his bet with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s face became even darker.


    He said, "I disagreed with you coming to be my secretary from the start."


    "Confusing personal issues with work is a big taboo."


    "But you kept pestering me, saying I''m too busy, hardly ever at home, wanting to be by my side to take care of me! I had no choice but to transfer you over."


    "If you continue like this, then you can just roll back to the Administrative Office!"


    The beautiful young woman obviously didn''t know about the conflict that had just occurred between Zheng Tao and Qiu Tu.


    She really thought it was her untimely concern that had irritated her husband, and her eyes reddened slightly...


    But seeing the glum look on Zheng Tao''s face, she dared not argue and could only bow respectfully, saying aggrievedly, "Yes, sir."


    Seeing her like that made Zheng Tao even more irritable. He stared at the beautiful woman for a moment, then waved his hand dismissively, "Alright, alright, leave."


    "Call Old Shi over. I want to have a chat with him about cooperating with the Special Service Department."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the beautiful young woman nodded, "Okay...."


    Then, she walked towards the door. When she reached the doorway, she turned back to look at Zheng Tao and said softly with concern, "Ah-Tao... take care of your health. You stayed up all night again yesterday; your body won''t be able to take it."


    "And... as soon as you arrived at the Public Security Bureau, you had everyone working overtime, and everyone is..."


    Hearing the beautiful young woman''s words, Zheng Tao''s face darkened once again.


    Seeing this, the young woman did not dare to urge him further and quickly hurried away.


    After the beautiful young woman had left, Zheng Tao heavily sat down in his chair, his gaze darkening as he looked toward the doorway.


    Although he believed that Qiu Tu had a 99.99% chance of not becoming the Deputy Head of the Political Department and that his bet was definitely not going to be a loss,


    for some reason, ever since he made that bet, his right eyelid had been twitching nonstop....


    Such an ominous premonition really made him feel uneasy.....


    That was why he had just now been so irritable, treating his wife, who was also his secretary... with such a terrible attitude.


    After sitting quietly for a while, Zheng Tao took a deep breath, then slapped his own face and comforted himself, "There should be nothing wrong. Don''t scare yourself."


    ....


    Meanwhile.


    On the highest floor, the twelfth floor of the Investigation Bureau.


    Inside the senior conference room, the remaining eight high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau were also in a meeting.


    However, it was obvious the meeting was not going smoothly.


    This could be seen from the smoke filling the room and the water being constantly refilled.


    So, halfway through the meeting, Secretary Bai stood up and walked to the window. While opening it, he said with a refined smile, "You''re all smoking too intensely. You''re about to turn the conference room into a fairyland."


    "Let''s be considerate of our colleagues who don''t smoke."


    His joke elicited some laughter in the conference room, somewhat easing the tense atmosphere.


    Seeing this, Secretary Bai, after opening the window, walked back to the conference table and continued to diffuse the tension in the room, "I believe we are all colleagues here; it''s fine to have our own ideas, but let''s not damage our good relations."


    "Anyway, it has already been decided that the candidate for the Head of the Political Department will be promoted from within us, no matter who it is, it won''t affect the big picture."


    "So, if the disagreement is too significant, then let''s simply report both candidates. Let the higher-ups make the final decision. This also shows respect for the higher authorities."


    With Secretary Bai stepping in to mediate, those who were arguing could no longer justify continuing the dispute.


    Thus, Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, who had been at the center of the argument, exchanged glances with Old Shi, the Director of the Organizational Department, and they both nodded.


    The Sanctuary had instructed the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to nominate their own candidate for the position of the Head of the Political Department.


    Since both deputy heads of the Political Department were Yan Chen''s people, Yan Chen was neutral and had no inclination in terms of attitude.


    But even though Yan Chen showed no preference, those beneath him certainly did.


    It should be noted that even within Yan Chen''s own faction, there were smaller cliques.


    The two deputy heads who had a chance of being promoted each had the support of certain high-level officials, which led to the conflict during this meeting.


    Possibly believing that the argument would not cause any harm, Yan Chen did not bother to intervene and had been slouching and half-closed his eyes since the meeting began, not inclined to offer his opinion.


    But now, seeing that a consensus had been reached with the intervention of Secretary Bai, Yan Chen finally raised his eyelids. His gaze slowly swept over the high-level officials present like an old tree scanning its surroundings, then he slowly said, "Then let''s do as Secretary Bai suggested."


    "Submit both Old Cai and Old Zhang''s names; whoever the Sanctuary chooses will take the position, and the other will assist."


    Seeing that Yan Chen had settled the matter, the high-level officials present fell silent.


    And after deciding this matter, Yan Chen paused to think for a moment, then continued, "Alright. Now that we''ve discussed the candidates for the head position, let''s talk about the deputy head candidates."


    "Since Old Cai and Old Zhang are sure to move up one, that will leave a deputy head position vacant."


    "What are your opinions on this candidate?"


    As soon as he spoke, the atmosphere that had just slightly eased tensed up once again.


    The high-level officials present exchanged glances, each seeing sparks in the others'' eyes...


    -----

 Chapter 255 - 209: The Situation Develops that Shocks Everyone (10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    In the meeting room, if there was someone whose relationship with Qiu Tu was the most tense, it would definitely have to be Yan Chen.


    After all, Qiu Tu was a mid-level official whom Yan Chen had personally promoted.


    Moreover, Yan Chen clearly had high hopes for Qiu Tu, genuinely nurturing him as a confidant and laying out a majestic path for him.


    Yet, under such circumstances, Qiu Tu still betrayed Yan Chen and went into the embrace of Tang Feifei.


    Everyone somewhat understood Yan Chen. With his character of holding grudges, there was 100% no chance he would let Qiu Tu off the hook! Not to mention helping Qiu Tu get promoted! So, Tang Feifei''s proposal was definitely going to hit a snag.


    Indeed, as soon as Tang Feifei started to speak, Yan Chen, who had been silent since the meeting began, also spoke up.


    He lifted his drooping eyelids, and his old, murky eyes slowly shifted toward Tang Feifei.


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei also looked back at him squarely.


    The two stared at each other for two seconds before Yan Chen finally spoke with a somber expression, "Qiu Tu is not suitable, let''s just decide on the three candidates mentioned earlier."


    "Report them to the Municipal Committee, and let the committee decide which one they prefer.


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, the senior members of the meeting room were taken aback, then exchanged glances.


    The selection of the Head of the Political Department was too important, and it was somewhat normal to report it to the Sanctuary if there was an ongoing dispute among everyone.


    But... a Deputy Director? That could''ve been internally decided after discussion before just going through a formality at the Municipal Committee. Why now let the Municipal Committee choose as well?


    Wasn''t this a surrender of power?


    At this time, Yan Chen didn''t care about what others were thinking. After he made his statement, he snorted coldly, then stood up, and left the room with a flick of his sleeve.


    Seeing his attitude, the high-ranking officials, who had been somewhat puzzled just moments before, suddenly had a look of realization as they "guessed" Yan Chen''s thoughts: Yan Chen probably felt disgusted just hearing Qiu Tu''s name and couldn''t be bothered to continue the meeting, nor did he want to keep arguing with Tang Feifei, which is why he directly exercised his Bureau Chief''s decision-making power to settle the matter.


    Thinking this, they could not help but glance at Tang Feifei.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei''s brow was indeed deeply furrowed, and her face was as cold as frost.


    Seeing this, the senior officials looked at each other and smiled, also rising from their seats and leaving the meeting room...


    Although they hadn''t achieved the outcomes they wanted, at least there was still hope. But for Tang Feifei, there was no hope left.


    People are such strange creatures; it doesn''t matter much if their own lives are mediocre, but if they see someone else faring worse than themselves, it often brings much joy...


    Soon, the aftermath of this meeting began to spread rapidly within the Investigation Bureau.


    So, not long after, agents, chiefs, and directors from different departments got wind of the juicy details from this meeting.


    "Hey, have you heard? Deputy Director Tang and the Disciplinary Department proposed Chief Qiu for a promotion to Deputy Director, but it was vetoed by the Bureau Chief."


    "I''ve heard, I''ve heard. I also heard that Deputy Director Tang''s face was quite a sight at that time."


    "But to be fair... although Chief Qiu has less seniority, and he has just been promoted, the endorsement from the Disciplinary Department gave him qualifications to be promoted to Deputy Director. Without the Bureau Chief''s opposition, he would have had the greatest advantage."


    "Yeah, but who told him to offend the Bureau Chief? With the Bureau Chief''s veto, he lost all hope. Besides... now that the list has been reported to the Municipal Committee, there''s no turning back."


    "It''s fate, alas..."


    "Isn''t that the truth?"


    Meanwhile...


    In the office of the Public Security Department Director.


    As he was anxious about his bet with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao visited his superior Guan Weihua almost immediately after the meeting to find out the news.


    Being officials of the same faction, Guan Weihua didn''t keep anything from Zheng Tao.


    So, Zheng Tao quickly learned two pieces of news.


    The first news was: Qiu Tu was indeed nominated, and moreover, he was jointly nominated by Deputy Director Tang and the Disciplinary Department, making him a surprisingly strong competitor.


    The second news was: But... Director Yan was extremely dissatisfied with Qiu Tu, directly vetoing this nomination, and reported the other three candidates to the Municipal Committee, just waiting for them to make the final decision.


    The first news nearly caused Zheng Tao to break out in a cold sweat, while the second brought him close to bursting with laughter!


    At that moment, how could he not realize Qiu Tu''s "conspiracy":


    Qiu Tu clearly knew he would be jointly recommended by the Disciplinary Department and Tang Feifei, thinking he had a high probability of being elected, which is why he had the audacity to bet with him!


    He aimed to win over his wife and driver!


    Luckily, Director Yan exercised his veto power right then, or else he might have actually succeeded!


    With these thoughts, Zheng Tao breathed a sigh of relief and also felt a tinge of schadenfreude.


    He felt that Qiu Tu, despite all his calculations, had still missed a crucial point.


    It seemed that the ultimate winner of this bet would be him!


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao suddenly paused: Wait a minute, in the bet between himself and Qiu Tu, why was it that only he had placed a stake, and Qiu Tu hadn''t pitched in anything?


    ''No, no! I must confront him about this!''


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao said farewell to Guan Weihua and then headed towards the 9th floor...


    .....


    At the same time, Qiu Tu was on the phone with Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei at this moment, although not as cold in expression as she was when the meeting dispersed, was not much better off. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She frowned with a chilly tone, "Qiu Tu... didn''t you handle Yan Chen properly?"

 Chapter 256 - 209: Shocking Situation Unfolds (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    "Today, I nominated you according to our plan, but he vetoed it with a single vote,"


    "Now how will you get promoted?"


    As she said this, she spoke with a tone that scorned incompetence, "This is a very rare opportunity."


    "Xinjie City is still developing and there might be some openings for director positions in the Investigation Bureau, but the division chief positions are like a radish in a pit¡ªthere''s only one for one."


    "Previously, there was an opening for the deputy division chief of the Public Security Bureau and that was already rare enough,"


    "What a pity, Yan Chen already gave it to someone else,"


    "Now, it''s already a stroke of luck that a deputy director position in the Political Department is available, and if someone else takes it, your career will be completely stuck!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s concerned words, Qiu Tu tried to reassure her, "Feifei... don''t get worked up."


    "The results haven''t come out yet, no need to pop champagne for the enemy halfway through the game."


    "You have to trust me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei took a deep breath as if suppressing the anger inside her; evidently, the defeat at today''s senior meeting had really annoyed her.


    After two seconds, she then suddenly ordered in a cool tone, "Come to my place for a late-night snack tonight."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    This is totally a different matter, right?


    And... late-night snack?


    Has his nickname become ''late-night snack''?


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu, who had been busy the day before yesterday, quickly shook his head and declined her, "I don''t have time. I have an important task these next few days."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s refusal, Tang Feifei snorted coldly. She was just about to further argue with Qiu Tu, wanting to express just how embarrassed she felt today.


    But before she could speak, Qiu Tu abruptly said, "Someone''s come to see me, let''s talk when I''m free."


    After that, he hung up the phone.


    Listening to the "beep... beep..." from the handset, Tang Feifei squeezed the communicator until it creaked, almost breaking it!


    However, after her outburst, Tang Feifei still managed to suppress her rage and tossed the communicator aside, starting to speculate about how Qiu Tu would turn the tide against the odds...


    After quietly pondering for half an hour, Tang Feifei still felt the hope was faint.


    The list had already been sent to the Municipal Committee. Could Qiu Tu really get the Municipal Committee to send it back?


    But even if it was sent back, if Yan Chen blocked him, he would still not become the deputy director.


    Even if Qiu Tu finally persuaded Yan Chen in this period, Yan Chen couldn''t just inexplicably retract his veto, right? Wouldn''t that be slapping his own face?


    Tang Feifei felt there must be something she didn''t know...


    ...


    Meanwhile, having hung up the phone, Qiu Tu was now facing off with Zheng Tao who had sought him out.


    Compared to the frustration he showed in the morning, Zheng Tao was noticeably more relaxed and at ease now.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Does Chief Qiu know why I have come to find him?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment before tentatively asking, "Do you think you''re going to lose, so you''re preparing to go back on our bet?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao was full of question marks and nearly laughed in disbelief.


    "Is Chief Qiu joking?"


    "Who''s about to lose between the two of us?"


    He continued, "I''ve just got the news that your nomination was rejected by the Bureau Chief. Now the three candidates reported to the Municipal Committee do not include you."


    "So, it seems you''re about to lose the bet."


    With that, his tone shifted, finally revealing the purpose of his visit.


    He said, "However, it''s precisely because of this that I realized you haven''t placed a bet."


    "You only said that if you won, you''d want my... secretary to accompany you and my driver to pick you up."


    "But you never said what you''d give up if I won."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao with a perplexed expression.


    To tell the truth, he initially treated the bet as a joke, just to tease Zheng Tao and to take a jab at him. He never really took it seriously.


    And it was precisely because he didn''t take the bet seriously that he never mentioned his own stake.


    However, now Zheng Tao took the bet seriously and even came over to ask for the stake, which was a bit unexpected for him.


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask, "So what does Director Zheng want? You mention it, and I''ll see if I can accept it."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zheng Tao said expressionlessly, "My requirement is very simple, and I won''t ask for too much."


    "If you lose, you''ll have to shout three times from the first floor to the 11th floor of your office building: ''I am not as good as Zheng Tao, and I''m not fit to be the Deputy Division Chief!''"


    "How about this stake?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted slightly, his look towards Zheng Tao complicated.


    Zheng Tao''s bet seemed simple, but it was actually incredibly vicious.


    If Qiu Tu shouted these phrases throughout the building the day after he embarrassed Zheng Tao, then Zheng Tao''s lost face would immediately be restored, as would his prestige and influence.


    Moreover, publicly declaring himself unfit for the Deputy Division Chief role might seem like a joke, but if a similar opportunity arose in the future, it could be used against him by competitors.


    Thus, Zheng Tao was not only elevating himself, but also blocking Qiu Tu''s channels for advancement.


    If Qiu Tu didn''t manage to become the Deputy Division Chief this time, it would be difficult for him to get promoted in the near future...


    The only thing Zheng Tao miscalculated was that Qiu Tu''s promotion to Deputy Division Chief was almost a done deal¡ªit was very likely to happen, and all of Zheng Tao''s scheming was doomed to fail.


    Therefore, faced with Zheng Tao''s invitation to the bet, Qiu Tu immediately extended his hand, "It''s a deal."


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao also smiled and reached out his hand, shaking hands with Qiu Tu.


    With the bet set, Zheng Tao left the empty conference room contentedly.


    But after he left, Qiu Tu took out the special communicator given to him by Commissioner Jiang''s secretary, Tao Yaoyao, and made a call...


    And soon...


    At 5 p.m., a shocking piece of news rapidly spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    The list of candidates for Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department submitted by the Investigation Bureau to the Municipal Committee was entirely rejected!


    Not a single one of the three nominees was selected by the Municipal Committee!


    Such an incident had never happened since the establishment of Xinjie City, completely breaking the tacit understanding between the three major authority organizations!


    Immediately following, the second big event occurred.


    After rejecting the list of nominees, the Municipal Committee quickly sent a commendation to the Investigation Bureau.


    The content of the commendation was simple: it praised the investigation team led by Qiu Tu for the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case" for their members'' success in solving this major case in a short time, catching the criminal, and rescuing numerous hostages.


    One after the other, the two documents had completely opposing attitudes, creating an air of mystery.


    After all... if the Municipal Committee was trying to knock the Investigation Bureau down a peg, they wouldn''t follow up with praise.


    If the Municipal Committee intended to show goodwill toward the Investigation Bureau, then they shouldn''t have rejected the Bureau''s routine promotion application in defiance of convention...


    This contradictory approach left many people scratching their heads.


    Only a few sharp-minded people guessed a possibility: Could these two issues actually be related?


    Could it be that the Municipal Committee was attempting to influence the choice for the Deputy Division Chief through their commendation?


    And at this time, while everyone in the Investigation Bureau was confused about the situation...


    That same afternoon, just before closing time.


    The Security Department of the military also sent a written letter of appreciation to the Investigation Bureau.


    The letter thanked Qiu Tu for his critical role in two major cases and commended him for laying a solid foundation for future cooperation between the two organizations.


    If it were just the commendation from the Municipal Committee, the Investigation Bureau wouldn''t think too much of it. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now, with the military''s commendation arriving too, and at such a sensitive time for the recommendation of Deputy Division Chief, the Bureau began to catch on to something...


    -----


    Still three chapters today, totalling ten thousand words. The third chapter will probably be updated around 23-24 o''clock. During the double-points period, I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 257 - 210: Promotion! Deputy Minister! (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Everyone who entered the Investigation Bureau was a person of some culture and thought amidst the chaotic world.


    Such people generally had minds much more agile than the average person.


    Thus, after only a brief contemplation, they realized that this was no coincidence but rather a deliberate political gesture.


    In other words, it meant that both the Municipal Committee and the military favored Qiu Tu for the position of Deputy Chief of the Political Department.


    Moreover, with the endorsement from the Disciplinary Department earlier, there were already three departments, on the same level or higher than the Investigation Bureau, supporting Qiu Tu.


    This exaggerated political gesture truly shocked the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, which had just been established for a year and had not experienced much adversity.


    Suddenly, discussions about what kind of background Qiu Tu had were heard everywhere. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Everyone was curious about what kind of power Qiu Tu possessed to be able to request the support of so many departments on his behalf...


    Meanwhile, at the same time,


    On the 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, in the Deputy Director''s office,


    Action Deputy Director Lai Shun, listening to the report from his secretary, revealed a hint of a smile on his face.


    His style of doing things was clearly different from that of Yan Chen and Tang Feifei, which could be seen from the decoration of his office.


    Compared to Tang Feifei''s simple yet grand and Yan Chen''s gloomy and oppressive office, his was very regular and extremely bright.


    Upon stepping into this office, one would have an impression of Lai Shun being impartial and calm.


    However, if one spent more time in this office, they would find that despite its seemingly impartial facade, it was filled with many clever and special arrangements.


    Which also precisely matched his way of doing things and personality: an unflappable appearance, but full of schemes and tactics on the inside.


    And now, after listening to his secretary''s report, Lai Shun stroked his balding crown and said cheerfully, "I didn''t expect that... Chief Qiu really has some tricks up his sleeve."


    "He managed to get so many people to speak up for him."


    Upon saying this, he picked up his tea cup and took a sip, "But... it''s useless to ask for more people''s support; it still requires Old Yan''s approval."


    "Old Yan isn''t someone who can be coerced."


    "So... what he''s done now, aside from provoking Old Yan, is pointless."


    At the same time, also on the 12th floor, in the Deputy Director''s office,


    Tang Feifei had just finished listening to the report from her secretary and spy from the Security Department, Su Xiaowan.


    She came to a similar conclusion as Director Lai.


    "Although reaching out to Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai to pressure the Investigation Bureau is shocking¡­ it''s not very effective."


    Tang Feifei frowned slightly, "If Yan Chen is dead set against it, no one can interfere with the internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau."


    "This will only cause everyone to lose face."


    "Qiu Tu should have foreseen this. What exactly is he thinking?"


    This thought circulated among all the high-levels of the Investigation Bureau. In a short time, the focus of everyone''s attention shifted from who would become the Deputy Chief, to whether Qiu Tu could really become the Deputy Chief.


    And just as everyone was eagerly awaiting, close to the end of the workday, another order was issued from the Bureau Chief''s office.


    It was still a promotion list. It was still for the Political Department''s Deputy Chief position.


    Only, this time the nominees had changed from the previously listed Vice Director Qi, Section Chief Guan, and Section Chief Wang, to the equally competitive Deputy Director Zheng and Section Chief Xin...


    In other words, Qiu Tu''s name was still not there.


    Yan Chen''s method of response was essentially a direct and firm resistance, effectively deflecting the pressure from the Municipal Committee and the Disciplinary Department, as well as the influence of the military.


    This left the entire bureau too excited to even think about leaving work, all intensely interested in seeing how the situation would unfold.


    After receiving this new promotion list, Tao Yaoyao immediately called Qiu Tu.


    No one knew what they talked about, except that shortly after hanging up, the Municipal Committee sent back the document.


    But what came back carried a personal annotation from Commissioner Jiang, a single word: "Possible."


    The implications of that one word were significant. It neither agreed nor disagreed. It did not specify which of the two should become the Deputy Chief.


    It effectively returned the decision-making power back to Yan Chen, leaving it up to him to decide who the Deputy Chief would be.


    By this point, it was clear to everyone that Yan Chen had withstood the pressure from the Municipal Committee and the military, preventing them from meddling in the affairs of the Investigation Bureau.


    What remained to be seen was whom Yan Chen would choose between Section Chief Xin and Deputy Director Zheng.


    In essence, Qiu Tu''s bid had utterly and completely failed!


    As a result, just then, a third document was issued from the Bureau Chief''s office, still a simple request for the appointment of a Deputy Minister.


    However, this time, there was only one name on the appointment, and that was Qiu Tu.


    This time, City Hall almost took just a few minutes to fax the document back. On it was still only Commissioner Jiang''s instruction, but this time it was two words, "Agreed."


    When the Investigation Bureau Organization Department received this legally effective appointment document, everyone in the department was a bit baffled.


    Even some of the seasoned investigators were somewhat at a loss as to what exactly had happened.


    How after several documents, the candidate for Deputy Minister had changed from the other five division chiefs and section chiefs to Qiu Tu?!


    What kind of riddles were these big shots playing?


    Meanwhile, Yan Chen, who had finally finished all his business, tossed his pen onto the desk and then slowly rose from his office chair, saying to Secretary Bai in a deep voice, "Let''s go. Back to the villa."


    "Yes!" Secretary Bai, who had been involved in the whole affair, stepped forward to drape a wool coat over Yan Chen and then followed behind him, leaving the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Just as the two stepped out of the building, Qiu Tu was also in the empty meeting room on the 9th floor, holding a glass of foreign liquor, looking down at them through the floor-to-ceiling window.


    As if sensing something, Yan Chen instinctively turned and looked up towards the 9th floor.


    Their gazes collided across the vast distance, and Qiu Tu raised his glass towards Yan Chen. Yan Chen''s mouth twitched into a nearly imperceptible smile, then he turned and got into the car...


    Secretary Bai closed the car door for him, then also got into the car behind.


    Once the two big shots were seated, the motorcade gradually started and then slowly drove off into the darkness...


    However, though Yan Chen and Secretary Bai had left, the entire Investigation Bureau was in an uproar.


    What happened today truly broadened everyone''s horizons.


    The twists and turns in selecting the Deputy Minister attracted a lot of attention and put Qiu Tu, who finally got the position, under the spotlight for the entire Investigation Bureau to dissect.


    Deputy Minister of the Political Department, no less!


    A real Deputy Division Chief, and one of the top echelons at that. High-ranking and powerful, even greater than many of the department chiefs in smaller sectors.


    And Qiu Tu got it just like that?


    Moreover... after being unfavored by everyone, and vetoed by the Bureau Chief at the high-level meeting, he still got it?


    How on earth did Qiu Tu manage that!


    Instantly, everyone in the Investigation Bureau was divided into three states of mind.


    The first group was excited and joyful. These were mostly subordinates associated with Qiu Tu. For example, Liu Fuping, Song Qing, and people like Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng. Or some investigators and section chiefs who had repeatedly shown goodwill towards Qiu Tu.


    The second group was skeptical and incredulous. These were mostly division chiefs and section chiefs who held grudges against Qiu Tu, and some ordinary investigators who almost sprained their backs from all the drama.


    The third... was Zheng Tao.


    Ever since he made a bet with Qiu Tu at noon, Zheng Tao''s mood had been like a roller coaster.


    At first, when he learned that Qiu Tu was vetoed by Yan Chen, Zheng Tao was ecstatic.


    After all, nothing is more pleasing than seeing an enemy in trouble.


    But when the "Position Promotion Application" submitted to the Municipal Committee by the Investigation Bureau was rejected, he was thrown into a panic.


    ''How could it be rejected?'' he thought.


    Zheng Tao was one of the old-timers who had come down from the Sanctuary with Yan Chen, helping to prepare Xinjie. During the establishment of Xinjie, he had seen all sorts of situations.


    But honestly, he had never seen the Municipal Committee return a promotion request from the Investigation Bureau and the military.


    After all, isn''t that like making these two institutions fall out?


    If only it ended there.


    Zheng Tao believed that the great Director Yan wouldn''t let him down: after all, compared to Commissioner Jiang''s vulnerability, Yan Chen''s image had always been strong.


    Being slapped in the face like this, Yan Chen would surely not back down.


    However, what Zheng Tao didn''t expect was that both the Municipal Committee and the military subsequently sent commendations to Qiu Tu.


    It was like dancing on the tip of Zheng Tao''s heart.


    On the one hand, he prayed that Yan Chen would withstand the pressure. On the other, he was shocked by Qiu Tu''s influence.


    He wanted to run up and demand from Qiu Tu where all these trump cards came from!


    ----


    3 chapters, 10,000 words ha. Continue with daily ten thousands tomorrow! It''s the last day for double Monthly Tickets, don''t miss out on casting yours for double value! Pleading for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 258 - 211: Promotion Insider (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Line by line, Zheng Tao read the commendations from the Municipal Committee and the military, feeling a bit doubtful about his life.


    He too had once been a division chief at the Political Department and was now a Deputy Division Chief; how could he not receive commendations from either the Municipal Committee or the military?


    Why could Qiu Tu?


    Moreover, what kind of background did Qiu Tu have that he could put pressure on him with both major power institutions at once?


    By this moment, Zheng Tao truly felt that the situation had exceeded his expectations.


    He could do nothing now but pray that Yan Chen could withstand the pressure.


    Whether his prayers were effective or not, even when faced with the pressure from the Disciplinary Department, Municipal Committee, and the military, Yan Chen still stood firm and even turned the tables on the three departments by slapping their faces.


    ¡ª¡ªShe directly submitted a new promotion list without Qiu Tu''s name on it.


    Such an outcome finally let Zheng Tao breathe a sigh of relief. But learning from his last experience, he didn''t celebrate with champagne just yet; instead, he waited nervously again for the Municipal Committee to make a move.


    This time, the Municipal Committee finally gave in. They stopped pressuring Yan Chen and agreed to her personnel choice.


    Although the word "approved" was given grudgingly, approval was approval. As long as Yan Chen agreed, the personnel choice would be set in stone.


    With that, Zheng Tao finally got excited again, believing he had won this tough bet.


    But then, at this moment, things took an unexpected turn; Yan Chen listed only Qiu Tu''s name on the third promotion list.


    And this list was passed by City Hall in just a few minutes, taking full effect.


    Such a turn of events completely baffled Zheng Tao.


    He felt utterly unable to understand what was happening, unclear about how Qiu Tu had become the Deputy Division Chief and why he had lost the bet.


    This result made him very unwilling to accept defeat, so he could only sit dumbfounded in his office...


    And he sat like that, not knowing for how long. It could have been fifteen minutes or maybe half an hour.


    It was the "knock knock knock" on the door that startled him back to reality.


    Hearing that knocking sound, Zheng Tao awoke from his thoughts and looked towards the door.


    Then, he saw his secretary, who was also his wife, Tan Huimin, holding a boxed meal, walking in from outside.


    After entering, as Tan Huimin was gently closing the door, she said softly to Zheng Tao, "Ah-Tao, it''s time for dinner."


    "I went to the rooftop on the 9th floor to pick out some dishes you like."


    "Have something to eat before you continue working."


    Looking at Tan Huimin, Zheng Tao couldn''t help but think of his bet with Qiu Tu, his facial expression slightly changed, and then a surge of anger rose from the depths of his heart!


    He reprimanded, "I''ve said it before, this is the Bureau! The Bureau! Don''t be so affectionate in addressing each other!"


    "What would the other colleagues and superiors think if they heard it!"


    "And you, always eating, just eating!"


    "I haven''t even finished my work for the day, what''s there to eat!"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s scolding, Tan Huimin''s eyes reddened again.


    She wanted to leave right away, but worried about Zheng Tao, she bit her lip, hurried forward a few steps, and silently placed the meal box on Zheng Tao''s desk.


    Then, she turned around, covered her mouth, and ran out of the office with tears in her eyes.


    After Tan Huimin left, Zheng Tao''s face grew even darker.


    He knew he was taking his anger out on Tan Huimin a bit, but... he really couldn''t help it.


    His greatest pursuit in life was to get promoted and rise to high positions!


    That''s why he started the "overtime" wave in the Political Department, leading to everyone in the department leaving at 9, 10, or 11 PM.


    Why he would always bring up the Bureau Chief whenever he spoke.


    To get promoted, he was exceedingly harsh on himself and his subordinates, unwilling to give any leverage to his competitors and not wanting his superiors to see any fault in him.


    Apart from the lifelong pursuit of promotions, the only thing he cared about was his wife, Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin was his wife whom he met when he was still insignificant; although her family background was ordinary and couldn''t help with his promotion,


    she was top-notch in looks, figure, character, and personality.


    He truly cherished his wife.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t go against his principles, risking being caught by competitors or nitpicked by superiors, by having Tan Huimin at his side as his secretary.


    It was precisely because he cared that when Qiu Tu said he wanted to take his female secretary out for a couple of days, his face suddenly darkened.


    And this was also why he was so furious after losing the bet!


    ''I can''t go on like this...''


    ''I can''t just hand Hui Min over to Qiu Tu...''


    Thinking of the rumors about Qiu Tu, the women with ambiguous relationships around him, and the incidents where he accidentally saw Qiu Tu touching his female subordinates...


    Zheng Tao''s face turned even more livid.


    "Huff!" He took a deep breath and then got up, ready to go talk to Guan Weihua.


    ''First, I need to find out how exactly Qiu Tu won... then figure out a way to solve this bet.''


    Thinking so, Zheng Tao had no appetite for dinner and left his office to find Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua....


    After Zheng Tao left, the dinner specially prepared by Tan Huimin just sat on the table, slowly releasing its futile warmth and gradually cooling down.....


    ...


    Arriving at Guan Weihua''s office, Zheng Tao knocked on the door, and came the voice of Guan Weihua from inside, "Come in."


    Zheng Tao pushed the door open and entered.


    Guan Weihua was organizing files, apparently getting ready to leave work.


    Zheng Tao furrowed his brows slightly upon seeing this: to tell the truth, he had very little respect for Guan Weihua and the current state of the Public Security Bureau.


    Back when he was the Head of the Interrogation Section at the Political Department, he had set an example by working until 9, 10, 11 p.m., making all officers work overtime every day.


    It was precisely because of his lead that the various sections of the Political Department were endlessly internalizing competition. In the end, they forged the department into an ironclad force.


    But... after coming to the Public Security Bureau, Zheng Tao found that everyone there was very lax and disorganized, whether they were superiors or detectives; everyone left work on time every day, never working overtime.


    Moreover, it wasn''t just the Public Security Bureau; another department belonging to the Action Line, the Special Service Department, was also slacking off in their daily routines.


    This made him immediately understand why both the Special Service Department and the Public Security Bureau were so incompetent.


    To put it bluntly, it was all because the superiors did nothing....


    That was also why he had some disdain for the Director of the Public Security Department, Guan Weihua.


    However, now he needed to get information about Qiu Tu from Guan Weihua, so he could only suppress the discomfort in his heart and then, with a thick-skinned smile, he asked, "Director Guan, are you leaving work? May I delay you for a few minutes?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Guan Weihua smiled at him and then said, "You''re looking for me, so you must want to talk about Qiu Tu, right?"


    Zheng Tao wasn''t surprised: although others hadn''t bet with Qiu Tu, there should be quite a few who were curious about the matter.


    So he nodded, acknowledging it, "Yes, Director."


    He looked troubled, "I genuinely can''t comprehend why the Bureau Chief ultimately agreed to promote Qiu Tu."


    Hearing that, Guan Weihua laughed a couple of times.


    Guan Weihua was a somewhat chubby middle-aged man with very good skin, giving him a fair and plump look, very festive.


    He extended his fan-sized hand and gently patted Zheng Tao, "Come, Old Zheng, take a seat."


    "I have a few questions for you."


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s words, Zheng Tao nodded and then quickly sat down.


    Guan Weihua said, "I''m asking you, are the Disciplinary Department, the Municipal Committee, and the military, these three departments, powerful?"


    Zheng Tao hesitated for a moment, then nodded, "Of course they are powerful."


    "The Disciplinary Department can almost be said to be the Sanctuary''s imperial envoy, with the power to investigate officials in all departments and tremendous influence."


    "The Municipal Committee is the highest authority of a city. In theory, even our Investigation Bureau is under their jurisdiction, which is evident from the fact that any rank above Deputy Division Chief needs their approval."


    "As for the military... although they are a parallel department to our Investigation Bureau, their armed forces are formidable, with much more powerful firearms than we have; if it really came to a fight, we might not necessarily be their match."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s assessment, Guan Weihua smiled and nodded, then said, "That''s right. Since you know how powerful these departments are. Would the Bureau Chief not know?"


    "Qiu Tu could get so many departments to pressure for him, to have so many big-shots stand up for him; what''s giving him a Deputy Division Chief title to them?"


    "To have a Deputy Division Chief owe a favor to so many departments, the Bureau Chief certainly doesn''t come out at a loss."


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s words, Zheng Tao first looked stunned and then hesitantly said, "Wait a minute. But... the Bureau Chief initially refused!"


    Guan Weihua chuckled, "That''s right, he did refuse."


    "He even submitted a second promotion list without Qiu Tu''s name."


    Zheng Tao nodded, "Yes. So....?"


    Guan Weihua picked up the teacup on his desk, took a sip, and said leisurely, "So... what can that represent?"


    "It''s just a simple testing of the waters by both sides, then giving outsiders a respectable result."


    "A respectable result?" Zheng Tao didn''t quite understand.


    Guan Weihua pointed at Zheng Tao and said with a smile, "You... still lack the vision for high-level political exchanges."


    "To put it plainly... everyone needs face. Whether it''s the Bureau Chief, the Disciplinary Department, or Commissioner Jiang; Director Dai, they all need face."


    "When the Disciplinary Department applied pressure at the start, the Bureau Chief couldn''t possibly agree."


    "After all, if he gave in so easily, what would the Investigation Bureau amount to? A subordinate department of the Disciplinary Department?"


    "And when the pressure came from City Hall and the military, the Bureau Chief was even less likely to agree."


    "After all, if pressured into agreeing at that time, where would the Bureau Chief''s authority and face be?"


    "What would he do if similar situations occurred later? Would the Bureau Chief yield, or not?"


    "Therefore, the Bureau Chief had to stand firm, had to show his stance, to let the other party yield and regain face."


    "That''s why he submitted the second list."


    "This time, the Municipal Committee indeed gave in and acknowledged the Bureau Chief''s position in writing: the Investigation Bureau is still under the Bureau Chief''s control."


    "At this point, adding the name of the person favored by the other side, Qiu Tu, to the list was a move by the Bureau Chief. Wouldn''t the three major departments owe the Bureau Chief a favor?"


    "If the Bureau Chief needs their cooperation in the future, wouldn''t it be difficult for them to refuse?"


    Hearing Guan Weihua''s analysis, Zheng Tao was momentarily dumbfounded.


    Perhaps doing too much transactional work, his political sensitivity wasn''t that strong. Therefore, he hadn''t thought that such a short confrontation could be riddled with so many twists and turns.... Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At the same time, Qiu Tu was also in an empty conference room, explaining the ins and outs of the promotion game to Tang Feifei over the phone.


    However, his angle of explanation was slightly different from Guan Weihua''s.


    He said to Tang Feifei with a smile, "Yan Chen is really sophisticated. Politically astute."


    "Actually... that night, he already agreed to me, that he wouldn''t oppose my promotion and would put on a play with me."


    "Turns out, he pulled this move today. It''s clear he wants to have it all."


    "Have it all?" Tang Feifei''s tone on the other end of the phone was somewhat cold, but her eyes were burning hot.


    The developments of the evening had clearly piqued her interest.


    Although she''s a woman positioned so highly, she''s a political creature as well. Nothing could arouse her curiosity more than knowing the political exchanges her opponents engage in.


    ------


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words today. Last day for double Monthly Tickets, so vote for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 259 - 212 Qiu Tu: I Finally Became a Big Shot Too (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    ```


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s question, Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Yes. A clean sweep of all four."


    Qiu Tu said, "Actually, after he vehemently opposed your suggestion at the meeting that I take the position of deputy division chief, I guessed his thoughts."


    "That''s why I cooperated in pressuring both the Municipal Committee and the military."


    "And his second refusal didn''t surprise me either, after all, he''s the Bureau Chief, he wants face; he can''t be forced into giving me the position."


    "In that case, his credibility would completely collapse."


    "Therefore, he had to report my name proactively after conceding to the Municipal Committee."


    "By doing this, he not only fulfilled his promise to me but also, by voluntarily reporting my name, he could garner favor from the Municipal Committee, the military, and the Disciplinary Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was stunned for a second, then laughed and said, "He''s being too greedy."


    "But... will the Municipal Committee and the military remember this favor?"


    Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Of course not."


    "Because he also misjudged the situation."


    Qiu Tu said, "I told him that I am now being put forward by the Municipal Committee and the military to contradict him."


    "So, in his view, the whole incident was initiated by Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai."


    "But in truth... whether it''s Commissioner Jiang or Director Dai''s pressure, it was all exchanged with a favor I gave recently."


    "They didn''t really care whether I got promoted or not. So, they would never acknowledge owing me this favor."


    "Even if Yan Chen really needs to call in this favor in the future, they would only come to me to fulfill it or make an equivalent exchange."


    At this point, Tang Feifei also laughed and joined in the conversation, "And since you''ve already come to an agreement with Yan Chen early on, you won''t have to pay any additional favors or price."


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes, that''s exactly it."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu looked out the window at the dark but clear sky and remarked, "Yan Chen actually outsmarted himself this time."


    "However, it''s not his fault, after all... it all comes down to the disparity in information."


    Ever since his first clash with Larilo, and now during the indirect "battle of wits" with Yan Chen, Qiu Tu realized the importance of "information."


    Whether it''s scheming or struggling, information is always paramount.


    In situations like tonight''s, Yan Chen''s tactics were extremely shrewd, but since he was deceived by Qiu Tu with incorrect information, he ended up losing everything.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help taking a deep breath. No matter what, after planning for so long and utilizing so many connections, in the end, he had secured the position of deputy chief of the Political Department!


    The promotion to this position not only officially ushered him onto the stage of the Investigation Bureau''s upper hierarchy but would also transform his Cataclysmic ability, turning him into a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened!


    The only regret was that, although the appointment had now been made, the process was not yet complete.


    To settle things once and for all, everything had to wait until work resumed tomorrow, for the Organizational Department to have a discussion first, then formally bestow the documents, epaulets, and various benefits and entitlements.


    Like a villa, car, personal secretary, personal chauffeur, and so on.


    ''Still have to wait a bit though.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu forced himself to calm his excitement and continued chatting with Tang Feifei.


    "Feifei, can I, as the deputy division chief recommended by the Disciplinary Department, be responsible for other areas besides supervisory work?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then said cautiously, "Of course you can. After all, you are the official deputy division chief."


    "So, in theory, you can compete for all the benefits that come with being a deputy division chief."


    "The key is whether the newly appointed head of the Political Department is willing to give you these responsibilities, and how much you can fight for yourself."


    At this, Tang Feifei paused, then asked, "Which area do you want?"


    For such a staunch ally as Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu naturally didn''t need to hide anything. He candidly said, "Intelligence."


    "I want the Intelligence Section."


    The reason Qiu Tu chose this direction was not only because of the critical nature of "intelligence work," but also because Qin Shuman was now in charge of intelligence work for the Security Department.


    Given their relationship, sharing information to a certain extent, expanding the intelligence-gathering scope, and covering each other''s deficiencies could greatly enhance the intelligence capabilities of both the Political Department and the Security Department.


    And... to put it more opportunistically, after being in charge of this business, if there''s a period where Qiu Tu makes no progress, couldn''t he also mooch off Qin Shuman and eat soft rice to get by!


    Apart from cooperating with Qin Shuman, another key reason Qiu Tu wanted to delve into intelligence work was Larilo.


    While Qiu Tu had temporarily induced Larilo to let the matter go, he knew that... the deceit would inevitably blow up someday. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ```


    Once the bomb goes off, Qiu Tu would still have to find ways to continue buying time or to deal with Larilo.


    In such a case, controlling the Security Department''s intelligence operations, Qiu Tu would have first-hand information about Moonlight Lake and Larilo from the Investigation Bureau.


    By then, whether Qiu Tu finds himself in a position where he has no choice but to betray intelligence to Larilo to win a sliver of survival, or he gathers information on Larilo to start dealing with her, he could layout his plans with ease.


    And don''t forget, up to now, there''s still a secret mole for Larilo within the upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    Only by being in charge of the Intelligence Department could Qiu Tu more easily root out that mole....


    Moreover....perhaps it''s a premonition, but Qiu Tu always felt that the incident at Moonlight Lake could likely have a huge and profound impact on the area around Xinjie City, Eastern City, and even the soon-to-be-established Dongye State...


    At such a time, without intelligence, it was like looking at the world blindfolded, groping for the future''s direction in darkness....


    Thus, after chatting with Tang Feifei for a while and determining the subsequent division of efforts, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    After hanging up, he stood by the window, quietly gazing at the night view of Xinjie City.


    Somehow, the nights of Xinjie City gradually gained light. Although it had not yet reached the bustling neon lights of a prosperous metropolis, it was slowly obtaining the glow of civilization.


    Then, recalling Old Alley Street, which had turned into a night market, Qiu Tu suddenly realized that Xinjie City was developing at a remarkably fast pace.


    Luckily, during this period, he was also developing at an astonishing speed.


    From a low-ranking Second-Class Investigator to his current position as Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department, he had worked his way up to where he was now, step by step.


    In the vast Xinjie City, he was ranked within the top 40 in terms of power.


    Finally, people could reluctantly call him a "big shot".....


    ''That was not easy at all!'' Qiu Tu thought, as he tossed his head back and drank down the glass of wine, his heart filled with boundless pride!


    The roc spreads its wings and soars with the wind, rising straight up for ninety thousand miles!


    Qiu Tu believed that this was only the beginning and not the end!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    Just as Qiu Tu was feeling high-spirited.


    At that moment, in the office of the Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau.


    Zheng Tao sat in front of his desk with a gloomy face.


    After coming out from Guan Weihua''s office, Zheng Tao returned to his own and sat quietly until now.


    From Guan Weihua, not only did Zheng Tao learn about Yan Chen''s favors traded among several government departments, but he also became aware of Qiu Tu''s influence.


    Having Commissioner Jiang and Director Dai speak for Qiu Tu meant he was no simple character, and there was definitely more than just Tang Feifei backing him.


    Although even Guan Weihua couldn''t clarify who exactly stood behind Qiu Tu, he speculated that Qiu Tu might, at some unknown point, have become connected with some big shot in the Sanctuary, gaining that big shot''s protection.


    This revelation made Zheng Tao even more troubled.


    If Qiu Tu truly had such a profound background, then... what did his recent actions provoking Qiu Tu amount to?


    What did his wager with Qiu Tu today amount to?


    In immense regret, Zheng Tao found himself entangled in an enormous dilemma and indecision.


    He had opposed Qiu Tu before because the price for his promotion to Deputy Division Chief was to be in opposition to Qiu Tu in the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case."


    Now that the "8.19 Pharmacy Robbery Case" was over, Zheng Tao no longer needed to oppose Qiu Tu.


    So, the only thing left for him was how to deal with today''s wager....


    After much thought, Zheng Tao made a certain decision: he absolutely couldn''t let Hui Min accompany Qiu Tu!


    He was her husband, how could he do such a thing!


    But what sort of excuse or apology could he offer that would be acceptable to Qiu Tu and not further provoke him?


    And....did Qiu Tu actually know that his wife was his own secretary?


    How exactly should he handle this matter....


    A tangled mess of issues piled up in Zheng Tao''s heart like knotted yarn, difficult to unravel and impossible to cast off.....


    ---------


    Still 3 chapters and 10,000 words today. Last day for the double, asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 260 - 213 Larilo: Zheng Tao, Let Your Lady Go (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    After quietly reflecting for a while, Zheng Tao took a deep breath.


    He felt it was pointless to keep guessing, and that it would be better to go and have a chat with Qiu Tu directly.


    Perhaps many things were not as he imagined. Maybe Qiu Tu wasn''t even thinking about his wife?


    Perhaps, if he simply conceded, acknowledged his mistake sincerely, and offered some kind of compensation, he could resolve this matter?


    With this in mind, Zheng Tao didn''t bother with dinner and got up, preparing to meet Qiu Tu on the 9th floor.


    However, just at that moment.


    Suddenly, his office door was knocked on "Dong Dong Dong."


    As a workaholic and a master of intense internal competition, Zheng Tao could switch to work mode at any time.


    So, even though he was ready to go see Qiu Tu, when he heard the knock at the door, he sat down immediately, adjusted his expression briefly, and then responded in a deep voice, "Come in."


    Along with his voice.


    The door to the office was pushed open, and an investigator with a somewhat unfamiliar face walked in.


    Seeing the unfamiliar face, Zheng Tao asked with a look of confusion, "Who are you?"


    The investigator looked at Zheng Tao with an expressionless face and said assertively, "Director Zheng, an official would like to see you."


    "An official?" Upon hearing the investigator''s words, Zheng Tao was taken aback.


    There were many officials in the Investigation Bureau. Everyone higher than a Deputy Staff could use this title, but only nine true bigwigs of the Investigation Bureau could be referred to as officials by someone like Zheng Tao, a Deputy Division Chief.


    Thinking of this, Zheng Tao didn''t feel enlightened; instead, he became even more puzzled.


    Because... those nine high-level officials all had personal secretaries, and if they wanted to summon someone below them, they would usually send their secretaries.


    Why did they send an ordinary investigator this time?


    With these thoughts in mind, Zheng Tao couldn''t help but probe further, asking, "May I know which official it is?"


    The investigator replied curtly, "Follow me, and you will find out."


    "The official is waiting for you on the 12th floor."


    Despite still having many doubts in his mind after hearing the investigator''s words, Zheng Tao took comfort in the fact that he was going to the 12th floor, where security was assured.


    So, Zheng Tao eventually stood up, nodded, and said, "Alright. I''ll be there shortly."


    He followed the investigator out of the office, took the elevator, and soon arrived on the 12th floor.


    Getting off the elevator and continuing to walk forward with the investigator, Zheng Tao quickly arrived at the "official''s" office door.


    Glancing up at the nameplate of the office, a look of surprise flashed through Zheng Tao''s eyes.


    By this time, the investigator had already smoothly pushed open the office door and gestured to Zheng Tao, "Director Zheng, please."


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao quickly adjusted his clothes with his head down, and then stepped quickly into the office.


    Entering the office, he saw a familiar figure already standing by the window, gazing out into the night sky while waiting for him.


    Seeing that figure, Zheng Tao hastily wanted to salute and greet, but at that moment, the person put a finger to their lips, making a "silence" gesture...


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao opened his mouth but ultimately didn''t call out the person''s title.


    The figure gestured for Zheng Tao to sit down and then began speaking slowly, "Zheng Tao... if I remember correctly, you''re also one of the old-timers who came down from the Sanctuary with the Bureau Chief."


    As Zheng Tao nodded, the figure continued, "I''ve looked over your file, and your abilities were very outstanding back in the Sanctuary. Your performance has been remarkable after being dispatched to Xinjie City as well."


    "With your capabilities, in a few more years, after accumulating some merits and seniority, you would have had a good chance to move up the ladder."


    "Unfortunately... a few days ago, you were outmaneuvered by Qiu Tu, losing your prestige in front of so many investigators of the Bureau. Not only did you fail to complete the task the Bureau Chief and I assigned to you, but you also allowed Qiu Tu to expand his influence."


    "This has truly disappointed me, and the Bureau Chief as well..."


    "After all, we promoted you to this position hoping you would rein in Qiu Tu, not to make a fool of yourself."


    Hearing these words, Zheng Tao''s face turned beet-red, and he clenched his fists tightly.


    The previous failure was indeed the greatest humiliation of his life.


    Every time he thought about how he was thoroughly outplayed by Qiu Tu, even to the point where Qiu Tu used a young girl to make a fool of him, he wished he could crawl into a hole and hide.


    These past few days, he had thrown himself back into the grind, immersing himself in the work at the Public Security Bureau, partly to numb his own thoughts. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, it really was a thorn in his side.


    His headstrong wager with Qiu Tu today was also due to this reason.


    Thinking of this, Zheng Tao felt even more distressed.


    And at that moment, the figure spoke again slowly, "However, the Bureau Chief and I can give you another chance."


    "This time, if you do well, then the Bureau Chief and I will still consider promoting you for further use."


    At the figure''s words, Zheng Tao was initially stunned, then his face lit up with surprise as he looked up.


    Zheng Tao tried hard to suppress the excitement in his heart, but his fervent eyes still betrayed his inner thoughts, "Do I still have a chance?"


    He tentatively asked, "Will I be able to rise to the position of division chief in the future?"


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the figure laughed heartily, "Ha ha," twice before speaking with gravity, "Division Chief?"


    "You''re aiming too low."


    "If this matter is handled well, we can follow the Investigation Bureau''s process for cultivating core members by transferring you back to the Sanctuary to get a gilt edge, and then parachuting you into a position within the state after Dongye State is established."


    "By then, let alone a division chief, even being a Bureau Chief of a city or a legislator of a state wouldn''t be impossible."


    Upon hearing the figure''s grand promise, Zheng Tao''s breathing became rapid for a moment.


    The sequence of nurturing core members in the Investigation Bureau is to first gain a basic identity in the Sanctuary, then be demoted to the Planning Area for rapid promotion, return to the Sanctuary for another gilding and then be demoted again for promotion.


    This method allows for special promotion without the need for those above to vacate their positions.


    It is the true core succession route for rising up the ranks in the Investigation Bureau.


    And now... it could be given to him?


    Honestly, Zheng Tao tried to keep his rationality intact, to not frivolously believe in the lofty promises made by his superior, but... one should know that his recent promotion was arranged by this upper-echelon individual!


    The other party was not just making empty promises but was genuinely offering tangible benefits!


    Therefore, he really couldn''t help being tempted!


    However, Zheng Tao also knew that one must pay a price to gain something.


    The greater the harvest, the more one must pay...


    So he tried his best to control his desire, to restrain, and then to restrain some more...


    And then he failed to restrain himself.


    His eyes blazing with eagerness, he looked at the figure in front of him and asked, "Superior, what would you like me to do?"


    Seeing Zheng Tao take the bait, a subtle smile crept across the figure''s mouth.


    He turned around to face Zheng Tao, fiddling with an antique coin in his hand, and then asked softly, "I''ve heard... you''ve made a bet with Qiu Tu?"


    Zheng Tao''s gaze was attracted by that coin.


    The figure continued, "The wager is to lend him your secretary for two days...?"


    Hearing the figure''s words, Zheng Tao felt a sudden, ominous premonition.


    As expected, while playing with the antique coin, the figure said cheerfully, "And if I remember correctly, your secretary is your wife, isn''t she?"


    "I recall that according to the rules of the Investigation Bureau, this position cannot be held by a relative. Although you took many precautions to ensure both of you could work in the same department, avoiding recording your marital relationship in Xinjie City''s archives."


    "Yet in the Sanctuary''s records, you are unmistakably husband and wife."


    "Your little tricks might work on others, but to us, they are as transparent as glass."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao swallowed hard, feeling a chill run through his body... His knuckles white from gripping his hands tightly.


    Seeing this, the figure gave Zheng Tao two seconds to relax before he continued deliberately, "So, my task for you is to extend this bet. Send your wife to Qiu Tu''s side to monitor him."


    "I will have someone deliberately delay arranging a secretary for Qiu Tu, leaving him with no one available, forcing him to use your wife."


    "And what your wife needs to do is to gain his trust in these few days, ideally becoming his true secretary."


    "This way, we can know Qiu Tu''s movements in real time and be aware of his various plans. When necessary, we can even send him some... little gifts."


    Hearing the figure''s proposition, Zheng Tao was clearly still struggling.


    He said bitterly, "Superior, is it possible to use someone else...?"


    "For instance, I fulfill the bet by sending another person to be Qiu Tu''s secretary; or you could directly arrange a more suitable spy to be his secretary."


    Upon hearing Zheng Tao''s words, the figure rebuked sharply, "Nonsense!"


    "You know just how cautious Qiu Tu is."


    "If I were to directly arrange a new secretary for him, would he easily trust them? If you suddenly switch to another person, wouldn''t he be suspicious?"


    "Only because of such a sudden wager, and because he was the one who initiated the bet, will he believe that the secretary hasn''t been arranged by anyone."


    "All secretaries are uniformly trained and arranged by the Administrative Office, and your ''secretary'' has just been selected by you. In his eyes, she hasn''t yet formed a bond with you and is a blank slate."


    "Only such a uniquely favorable condition for trust will make him take the bait!"


    "Otherwise, why do you think I would come to you!"


    Hearing the words of the high-ranking individual before him, Zheng Tao lowered his head and fell silent.


    Possibly sensing the resistance in Zheng Tao''s heart, the figure let out a faint sigh.


    He walked up to Zheng Tao, reached out to grip the antique coin in his hand, brought it close to Zheng Tao, and said softly, "Zheng Tao, what if I say, this is Her Highness Larilo''s arrangement."


    "That she has specifically chosen your wife to go...?"


    ----


    Still 10,000 words for these three chapters. More tomorrow! Vote for monthly tickets!

 Chapter 261 - 214 Zheng Tao: Wife, I Lost You to Qiu Tu (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)

    At that moment, Zheng Tao''s body shook violently, as he suddenly looked up with an incredulous expression toward the person before him....


    His eyes were full of shock, clearly not expecting to hear "Larilo" from the lips of the figure before him.


    Seeing this, the figure chuckled lightly, and tossed the ancient coin into Zheng Tao''s hands, saying, "Check Her Highness Larilo''s token."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao''s hands trembled as he received the token.


    The coin had been in the figure''s hands for quite some time, so it felt warm to the touch.


    Zheng Tao meticulously inspected the token according to the method Larilo had taught him.


    After confirming the token indeed belonged to Larilo, he respectfully handed it back to the figure, his gaze complex as he looked at him, "Sir...I never thought you would be a follower of Her Highness Larilo, too."


    The figure took the ancient coin back, and with a hint of mockery, countered, "Otherwise, do you really think you were chosen for the promotion to Deputy Division Chief purely on merit?"


    Zheng Tao:.....


    Seeing Zheng Tao''s embarrassment, the figure chuckled again, as if amused by Zheng Tao''s na?vet¨¦ in truly believing in pies falling from the sky....


    In this world, without backing or power, not even accidental fortunes fall your way!


    However, knowing that he still needed Zheng Tao for the upcoming plan, the figure refrained from further mockery and paused before humoring Zheng Tao a bit, "Of course...apart from our relationship, your promotion is indeed also due to your respectable abilities."


    Sure enough, upon hearing this, Zheng Tao''s look slightly cleared up.


    Seeing this, the figure then continued back to the main topic. His voice carrying serious weight, he said, "I know you''re not truly a follower of Her Highness Larilo, you have only received Her Highness''s ''favor''...." S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At the mention of "favor", Zheng Tao''s hand clenched slightly....


    The figure, "But since you have received the favor, you''ve been marked by Her Highness, destined to be a follower. So, now you must work for Her Highness."


    "And now Her Highness needs you, needs your wife to make a small sacrifice, you should know what to do, right?"


    At this, the figure paused.


    Possibly worried about pressuring Zheng Tao too much, he softened his tone before saying, "And you should not feel any psychological pressure."


    "Your wife is just going to serve as a personal secretary to Qiu Tu."


    "It''s not like she''s being asked to sell herself."


    "Although Qiu Tu can be a bastard in his actions, he has his own limits. He wouldn''t dare to casually harm someone in such a sensitive position."


    "So, as long as your wife is careful, there will be no trouble."


    Hearing the figure''s words, Zheng Tao''s face still showed hesitation.


    He clearly didn''t want to accept this mission. But thinking of Larilo...thinking of the terrible Evil God, and that his very life and fortune were in another''s hands.


    After hesitating for ten seconds, he ultimately submitted....


    This couldn''t really be blamed on him.


    There were only two choices before him now.


    One was to obey the powerful figure before him, which would allow him to maintain his status as Chief and possibly reach even greater heights.


    The other was to refuse, which could lead not only to being abandoned but possibly executed by Larilo.


    It seemed he had two choices, yet in reality...he had no choice at all.


    Thinking this, Zheng Tao felt a surge of despair within himself, regretting ever accepting Larilo''s ''favor.''


    If it hadn''t been for that affair, perhaps he wouldn''t be in his current predicament.


    But with things as they were, he had no choice but to bite the bullet and proceed. So he took a deep breath and said, "Yes, sir. I accept the mission."


    Seeing Zheng Tao finally agree, a smile finally appeared on the figure''s face.


    He clapped his hands with a smile, saying, "Good. It seems Her Highness was not mistaken about you."


    "Now it all depends on you, and your wife."


    "When you go back, make sure to prepare your wife well."


    "Let her willingly accept the mission, and not show any flaws."


    "Qiu Tu is a very cautious, sensitive man. Gaining his trust is not going to be easy."


    "Your wife may have to think of many ways, even come up with clever ideas to ingratiate herself to him, in order to gain his acceptance over time."


    "Only when he has truly accepted your wife and fully trusted her, seeing her as one of his own, can your wife obtain critically important intelligence from him, and be a decisive force at crucial moments...."


    Hearing the figure repeatedly mention "your wife," Zheng Tao felt extremely uncomfortable.


    Especially when hearing that his wife should please and take care of Qiu Tu, he felt an indescribable sense of frustration.


    But with the situation as it was, he had no capacity to dissent anymore. So, he could only sigh heavily, "Yes, sir. I''ll have a good talk with my wife when I get back."


    Upon hearing this, the figure hummed in acknowledgment and then gently waved his hand, "Then you may leave."


    Zheng Tao, seeing this, reluctantly saluted and then left the office with his head bowed....


    And as Zheng Tao departed, the office door slowly closed. Only the figure remained in the room, alone in existence.


    He sat behind his desk, his gaze gentle as he played with the ancient coin, just gently toying with it.

 Chapter 262 - 214 Zheng Tao: Wife, I Lost You to Qiu Tu (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)_2

    After a moment, he gently tossed the coin onto the desk.


    The next second, the coin slowly vaporized, and Larilo''s exquisite head appeared on the office desk.


    She still bore the sultry appearance of a mature woman, like an enthusiastic barmaid, with desire in her eyes that seemed capable of burning everything.


    Upon seeing Larilo, the figure also slightly bowed and paid respects, "Your Highness. As you heard just now... although Zheng Tao has accepted, he''s clearly reluctant. I''m worried that if he isn''t prepared, it will affect your plans."


    Having said this, the figure paused briefly, then added, "Additionally, Your Highness, are you perhaps paying too much attention to Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing this, Larilo smiled wickedly and said with the look of someone strategizing, "Paying attention? The secrets that Qiu Tu holds are indeed worth my attention."


    "Besides, he has not only secrets but also several key intelligence lines in his hands."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s stunning face looked towards the figure before her, and with a coy smile said, "And some of that intelligence from those lines, even you don''t have."


    "Therefore, if Zheng Tao''s wife really can infiltrate Qiu Tu''s side and obtain some valuable intelligence from him, I think no matter the cost... it''s worth it...."


    "After all, every additional piece of valuable intelligence during the upcoming birth at Moonlight Lake can have a major impact on the entire outcome...."


    "As for... Zheng Tao." As Larilo said this, she smiled derisively, "He was originally just an expendable I inadvertently placed years ago."


    "If he''s useful, that''s great; if not, I''ll make sure he keeps quiet...."


    "With the Investigation Bureau line, as long as you don''t encounter any problems, nothing else matters."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Zheng Tao left the office that had changed his destiny with heavy steps.


    He stepped into the 12th-floor elevator and pressed the button for the 2nd floor. As the elevator descended slowly, Zheng Tao felt his entire heart weigh down.


    Truth be told, even though he had accepted the task from that influential figure, Zheng Tao still had no idea how to break the news to his wife.


    What could he say?


    Tell his wife that she needed to serve another man? To be another man''s secretary?


    Or that he lost her to another man in a bet?


    With these thoughts, Zheng Tao felt an immense regret.


    He felt he should not have taken that elevator today, should have kept his composure, and should not have accepted Qiu Tu''s wager. Otherwise, it wouldn''t have led to so many complications.


    "Ding!" The elevator reached the second floor.


    The elevator doors slowly opened.


    Zheng Tao walked back to his office with an emotionless face.


    Standing at the entrance to his office, he sighed deeply, then took out his keys, ready to unlock the door.


    Just as his key was inserted into the lock, the office door suddenly opened by itself.


    Zheng Tao looked up in bewilderment, only to see his wife, Tan Huimin, standing at the doorway, looking at him tenderly, "Ah... Chief, you''re back?"


    Seeing that Zheng Tao wasn''t angry about her slip of the tongue, Tan Huimin cutely stuck out her tongue, then said with a smile, "I just brought some documents to your office and noticed you weren''t there, so I did a bit of cleaning."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao looked up at his office.


    The somewhat cluttered office he left was now impeccably tidy and clean. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The floor had not only been swept and mopped, but all the documents were also sorted and placed on the desk.


    And that wasn''t all.


    Perhaps having noticed that the food in the lunchbox had gone cold, Tan Huimin had also ordered a fresh meal made, now sitting on his desk, steaming slightly.


    Seeing all this, Zheng Tao suddenly felt an incredible dryness in his throat.


    He opened his mouth to say something but, after opening and closing it several times, he ended up only uttering two words, "Thank you."


    Tan Huimin did not notice anything odd about her husband. She peeped her head out, looked around to see that no one was watching, quickly pulled Zheng Tao into the office.


    Then she closed the door and pushed Zheng Tao to his desk.


    "I know you must have skipped your meal today because of overtime," she said.


    "So, I had someone make you two dishes. They''re still warm, eat them while they''re hot."


    After saying this, perhaps afraid of Zheng Tao''s rebuke, Tan Huimin said somewhat uneasily, "I think it won''t take much time to eat."


    "You need to eat well to have the energy to work, right?"


    Looking at the few dishes in the lunchbox on the table, Zheng Tao felt even more bitter inside.


    He was silent for two seconds and finally nodded, then sat down and began to eat.


    While eating, Tan Huimin just sat across from him, resting her chin on her hand, quietly watching Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao might have felt a bit awkward being watched, so while eating, he asked, "What are you looking at me for?"


    Tan Huimin spoke softly, "I just feel that it''s not easy for you, that you work so hard."


    She said, "Over these years, you''ve endured so much hardship and done so much, and finally, you''ve become the Deputy Division Chief."


    "And I''ve never been able to help you. I can''t even take good care of your meals or your sleep..."


    "Sometimes, I feel a bit useless..."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao''s chopsticks paused slightly.


    As a political creature, he did not feel moved by his wife''s heartfelt confession, all he considered were the benefits.


    So... he was silent for a long while, then as if he had made up his mind, he picked up the food with his head lowered and tentatively asked, "Hui Min... do you really feel that way?"


    Tan Huimin nodded slightly, "Yes... I''ve been very distressed for you these past two years."


    Zheng Tao''s movements slowed down even more, so slow that it seemed as if he was not holding chopsticks, but two ten-thousand-pound stones in his hands.


    Lowering his head, he spoke slowly, "Then... if you could help me, would you be willing to help?"


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin naively said, "Of course I am willing. I''ll do anything to help you."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Zheng Tao slowly raised his head, his eyes becoming unfathomably deep and dark, "Then... I hope you can spend some time with Qiu Tu these next few days."


    Tan Huimin: ??


    Perhaps because she was not very familiar with the Investigation Bureau''s affairs, it took Tan Huimin a moment to remember who Qiu Tu was.


    It took her a while to recall in her mind that Qiu Tu was the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division (Principal Staff) who had slapped her husband in the face yesterday.


    She was taken aback for a second, then asked, "Spend time with him? What do you mean?"


    Facing his wife, Zheng Tao naturally couldn''t be too blunt.


    So he could only say half-truthfully, "You know, Qiu Tu is my arch-enemy."


    "A few days ago, he made me lose face in front of so many agents at the Investigation Bureau."


    "And today, he has been promoted to Deputy Chief of the Political Department."


    "I''m really worried that once he gets above me, he will suppress and target me in return."


    "So, I need someone I can trust to infiltrate his side, gain his trust, observe his every move, and report back to me at all times."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin paused for a moment, then hesitantly said, "But... I am your secretary, your wife. How can I get close to him, and how could he possibly trust me?"


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s doubts, Zheng Tao seemed to have made up his mind at last.


    He took a deep breath, then slowly said, "It''s simple. Because... I bet with him and I lost you to him."


    "So, if you are willing, you can go to his side at any time."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin''s beautiful oval face furrowed in disbelief as she looked at her husband...


    ----


    There are still 3 chapters of 10,000 words today. The next chapter will be updated between 23-24 o''clock, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 263 - 215: The Revelation of Liu Fupings Identity (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    ```


    Fearing she might have misheard, Tan Huimin frowned and sought confirmation again, "You said... What did you say?"


    "You bet me to Qiu Tu?"


    Perhaps because he had already spoken about the most critical issue, Zheng Tao was no longer scared. So he simply threw down his chopsticks and blurted out in frustration, "Yes. I bet you to Qiu Tu."


    He said, "We made a bet. The bet was whether the new deputy head of the Political Department was him or not."


    "I bet it wasn''t. The wager was you accompanying him for two days."


    "In the end, I lost the bet."


    Hearing the words that were almost unbearable to listen to from Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin''s face flushed with anger, her chest heaving violently.


    She glared at Zheng Tao, her beautiful face full of disappointment, "Zheng Tao! How could you do such a thing!"


    "I''m your wife! Not some plaything! How could you use me as a betting chip!"


    Seeing Tan Huimin getting angry, Zheng Tao didn''t feel the slightest bit of sympathy. On the contrary, he grew even more irritable.


    He cut off Tan Huimin abruptly, then with a darkened face, said gravely, "First of all, it wasn''t me who treated you as a betting chip, it was Qiu Tu who proposed it."


    "Secondly, our relationship isn''t public knowledge at the Bureau, so he doesn''t know you''re my spouse. He just mentioned wanting to borrow my secretary for two days."


    "At that moment, could I directly refuse, saying you weren''t suitable as a wager? Wouldn''t that expose our relationship?"


    "Finally..."


    At this point, Zheng Tao paused, then told a lie, "This gamble, in fact, we can never lose."


    "When he proposed the bet, I had already thought it through. If he lost, he would have to pay a price. Not only could I reclaim the dignity I lost yesterday, but I could also stem his rising momentum."


    "If he won..."


    Continuing, Zheng Tao gave his wife a deep look, "Then I take the opportunity to send you over. You infiltrate his circle, gain his trust, collect evidence of his crimes, and when the time comes, turn against him."


    "This way, we can once and for all resolve this opponent of mine, right?"


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin''s expression involuntarily showed contemplation.


    She pondered for a moment, then hesitantly asked, "Are you sure... it''s just for me to go over there and gather information?"


    Seeing Tan Huimin''s attitude soften a little, Zheng Tao quickly wrapped his arms around her shoulders, reassuringly saying, "Of course."


    "I don''t have any strange fetishes."


    He softly brainwashed his wife, "After you go there, it''s best if you can dig up some information, but don''t worry if you can''t. I just want to place a thorn in his side that can be called upon when necessary."


    "So, don''t put too much pressure on yourself, and be sure to protect yourself. Don''t let that bastard take advantage of you."


    "For the rest, just play it by ear. If things get tough, sweet-talk him a bit, flatter him. As long as you can stay by his side, you''re bound to be a great help to me in the future..."


    After listening to Zheng Tao''s words, sure enough, Tan Huimin''s stance softened further. She began to seriously consider his plan.


    After a moment of contemplation, Tan Huimin quietly asked, "But... can Qiu Tu really keep me around? Why would he trust me?"


    Zheng Tao, who earlier received advice from a high-level contact, confidently said, "Of course he might keep you around. The reason is simple."


    "Qiu Tu is a very sensitive and suspicious person. He''ll easily doubt everything around him."


    "With the tension in the Bureau, he might not trust any secretary arranged by the Bureau."


    "On the other hand, a secretary like you, who he won on a whim, he''ll feel is more reliable."


    "So, as long as you act a bit more considerate and attentive in front of him these two days, he definitely won''t want to let you go."


    "Then, I''ll find someone to stall his new secretary''s appointment. He''ll surely take a liking to you, trying every means to keep you."


    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Tan Huimin looked at him with a complex gaze.


    Although what Zheng Tao said sounded very convincing, a woman''s intuition still left Tan Huimin feeling uneasy.


    But now, with Zheng Tao having said so much, as a wife, she had no room to refuse.


    Therefore, she could only sigh, lower her gaze to her ample chest, give a slight nod, and then said, "Fine... I''ll try."


    Upon hearing this, Zheng Tao visibly breathed a sigh of relief. He reached out to hold Tan Huimin''s hand, softly saying, "Thank you, Hui Min."


    Tan Huimin was expressionless, "Hmm..."


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu was still unaware that a conspiracy was closing in on him.


    At that moment, he was at Liu Fuping''s home, drinking wine and chatting with Liu Fuping.


    Perhaps because both Jia Shu and Jia Wei were dead, and Director Liu''s son''s vengeance had been fulfilled, Liu Fuping was evidently very excited and happy that night.


    Resting her cheek on her hand, tilting her head, she held a glass of red wine and said tipsily to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, do you know? The grudge for Brother Kai has weighed on Director Liu and me for many years."


    "All these years, I''ve dreamed of Brother Kai lying in a pool of blood every single night."


    ```


    As she spoke, her eyes reddened slightly, and tears uncontrollably streamed down her face, "And now, I''ve finally avenged his death."


    "My heart can finally be at ease."


    At this moment, Qiu Tu had also learned her true identity from Liu Fuping''s lips: She was the fianc¨¦e of Director Liu''s son, Liu Kai...


    According to Liu Fuping, her parents and Director Liu were old acquaintances, who had fled together to Cuishan City years ago. Director Liu had become a detective through selection, while her family started a small business.


    Because they frequently interacted and were close in age, she and Director Liu''s son, Liu Kai, gradually developed feelings for each other. Both families noticed this and thought it wouldn''t be bad to strengthen the bond through marriage.


    Therefore, they arranged for the two to be wed and were preparing to choose a date for the wedding.


    However, during the waiting period for the wedding, Yan Chen and Jia Shu, along with students from the Eighth Sanctuary [Military Officers'' Academy], came down to participate in practical activities. And Liu Kai... was brutally murdered by the Jia brothers, Jia Wei and Jia Shu.


    Thus, Liu Fuping became a "widow" before she could even marry...


    This is also how she came by the identity of a "widow"... (Chapter 54)


    After Liu Kai''s death, Liu Fuping was overwhelmed with grief, almost unable to recover. It was only because Jia Wei had not been sentenced to death that she found the strength to live on¡ªshe wanted to avenge Liu Kai!


    Over the years, she and Director Liu had been tracking down Jia Wei''s whereabouts together; Director Liu used official channels, while she used her parents'' business channels. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But they could never find any trace of Jia Wei.


    It was only until two or three years ago that Director Liu heard Yan Chen would be transferred from the Sanctuary to become the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City.


    So, he began training a group of spies, planning to deploy them in Xinjie City to counter Yan Chen, and hoping to trace Jia Wei through the connection with Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    Liu Fuping learned of this plan.


    She volunteered eagerly to take part in the undercover mission to Xinjie City.


    Initially, both Director Liu and her parents disagreed, but they could not dissuade her resolute heart.


    As a result, after over a year of training, Liu Fuping came to Xinjie City under the alias "Liu Fuping"...


    "Liu" was after Liu Kai''s surname, and "Fuping" represented her years of drifting and... the impermanence of fate.


    In life, one might experience various changes and uncertainties. No one knows whether tomorrow or an accident will come first...


    Just like the rootless... water hyacinth.


    After recalling Liu Fuping''s past in his mind, Qiu Tu felt a trace of admiration for the woman before him.


    No matter when, a person of such deep loyalty and strong feeling deserves admiration.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also lifted his glass and clinked it with Liu Fuping''s.


    After the toast, they both drained their glasses, and Qiu Tu asked softly, "So, are you... really planning to leave Xinjie City?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Fuping threw a coquettish glance at him and chuckled, "Why? Will you miss me?"


    Possibly because of the blush from alcohol, or perhaps because of the lighting, Liu Fuping looked especially enchanting tonight.


    As he poured wine for both of them, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Not really. It just feels a bit sudden."


    Liu Fuping swirled her wine glass, her gaze hazy and her voice languid, "It''s not really sudden though..."


    "My mission was to investigate the murderer of Brother Kai."


    "Now that both Jia Shu and Jia Wei are dead, my mission is complete."


    "Though Yan Chen, the ''accomplice,'' is still alive in this world. But with my identity exposed, staying here wouldn''t be much help, and it might even lead them to trace back to other scouts."


    "So, I must leave."


    "Only if I leave can I protect the spy network that the Chief has worked so hard to establish."


    With that said, Liu Fuping smiled and continued, "Besides... with such a great contribution, I''m sure to get promoted upon returning!"


    "With the Chief''s generosity, I might even get to be a Section Leader or a Section Chief."


    "That''s certainly better than staying under your command and toiling away as a First Level Detective forever, right?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He joked, "So, it seems that I''ve been holding back your career, haven''t I?"


    With that said, Qiu Tu raised his glass again, "Then here''s to Section Leader Liu, no... Section Chief Liu''s bright future!"


    Though he seemed carefree, to tell the truth, Qiu Tu was indeed reluctant to part with Liu Fuping. After all, Liu Fuping''s gentleness and considerateness were unique to him.


    Uh... more importantly... he hadn''t had the chance to savor a moment with both Liu Fuping and Tang Feifei together. He was not content!


    At this time, Liu Fuping might have sensed Qiu Tu''s emotions as well.


    She laughed "gigglingly" while toasting with Qiu Tu, and while drinking, she said, "Actually... you don''t have to miss me."


    "We... might see each other again soon."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, Liu Fuping''s eyes, soft as water, gazed at him and she whispered, "Dongye State will be established soon. I might likely take up a post in the state."


    ----


    Today is still 3 chapters, 10,000 words haha. The next chapter will be updated between 23 and 24 o''clock, asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 264 - 216: A Night with Liu Fuping (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket)

    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu was startled.


    He couldn''t help but look up at Liu Fuping, "You''re going to take up a post in Dongye State?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s surprise, a smile curled up at the corner of Liu Fuping''s mouth. She said with a smile, "Yes."


    "After all, my parents have built up a bit of a business in the Planning Area over the years. I also have some connections in the Sanctuary."


    "Plus with Director Liu''s support, my transfer to a state position shouldn''t be a problem."


    Qiu Tu let out a hiss, then said, "I didn''t expect that. Your transfer feels like it''s going to shoot you straight to the top."


    "Next time I see you, I might have to address you as my superior, right?"


    Liu Fuping covered her mouth and snickered, then teasingly slanted her eyes, "That might just be the case."


    She reached out to hook Qiu Tu''s chin, then said with a hint of flirtation, "So... little man, you''d better sweet-talk me properly."


    "Otherwise, I might make things difficult for you when the time comes."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu too was amused.


    He lowered his head to bite her finger, like an onion stalk, then chuckled, "I might not be good at many things, but... I''m quite adept at taking care of my superiors."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping burst into a giggling fit, her laughter causing her chest to quiver uncontrollably, nearly blurring Qiu Tu''s vision.


    Qiu Tu simply couldn''t be bothered with eating anymore. He stood up and moved next to Liu Fuping.


    After her laughter, Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu with a blank face, not understanding what was happening.


    Qiu Tu said, "Get up."


    As soon as Liu Fuping heard this, her face blushed slightly as if realizing something, and then she stood up.


    Qiu Tu then took her seat and stretched out his arms to hug her, lifting her onto his lap.


    After that, while stroking Liu Fuping''s legs that were smooth as creamy jade, he praised, "Nice! This is how you enjoy a meal!"


    "Shameless!" Seeing Qiu Tu''s free-spirited demeanor, Liu Fuping laughed so hard she was shaking like a leaf.


    Sitting on Qiu Tu''s lap, she busied herself serving him food while saying, "By the way, the Bureau Chief contacted me today and made it a point to thank you."


    "He said he owes you a big favor, and if there''s ever anything he can do for you, just let him know."


    While caressing Liu Fuping''s slender legs, Qiu Tu spoke nonchalantly, "Verbal thanks are no different from none at all."


    "I''d rather have something more substantial."


    Liu Fuping covered her mouth and laughed, "What more do you want?"


    "You''ve already had your way with his daughter-in-law."


    Qiu Tu: !!


    "What kind of talk is that! Weren''t we both in mutual agreement, carried away by our feelings, irresistible to each other?"


    "How did it become a one-sided affair of me having my way with you?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, then he pointed at his handsome face and patted his well-defined six-pack abs, saying, "With looks like these, with muscles like these"


    "If we slept together, you''re the one getting the deal! It''s lucky I didn''t charge you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s shameless words, Liu Fuping''s face turned a deeper shade of red, and she spat, "Pah!"


    "So shameless."


    Yet after laughing and cursing, Liu Fuping also recalled that wild night with Qiu Tu, and inexplicably, her eyes grew moist.


    She lowered her head, looking boldly and directly at Qiu Tu, then said, "But... little man."


    "I''m leaving tomorrow. Don''t you have any parting gift for me tonight?"


    Seeing Liu Fuping''s ravenous expression, Qiu Tu quickly grasped her intent.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu cast aside all pretenses. He picked up Liu Fuping and in a swift motion, swept all the dishes and tablecloth off the table onto the floor!


    He pressed Liu Fuping against the table.


    That night, Qiu Tu truly experienced what it meant by ''a woman''s waist, a deadly blade''...


    And Liu Fuping "received" Qiu Tu''s deeply affectionate "rich and thick" farewell gift...


    .....


    The next morning dawned.


    Qiu Tu awoke from his sleep. Liu Fuping, tired from the night''s activities, was still deeply asleep.


    Qiu Tu yawned, reminisced a little, and felt that only such a night was truly enjoyable. Striving like Tang Feifei was abnormal!


    ''I wonder... after this promotion and the enhancement of my Cataclysmic ability, will my physical condition be strengthened.''


    ''When it comes to it, a Second-Order Catastropher facing a Third Order Cataclysmic shouldn''t be as strained as now, right?''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu involuntarily remembered the second bottle of Cataclysmic Awakening Potion and the Cataclysmic Material that ensured a 100% success rate to upgrade his Potion, which he had crafted but not yet used.


    With these two items in hand, Qiu Tu theoretically had a 100% chance to cultivate two Cataclymics.


    As for whom to cultivate, the choice was simple: the 100% Awakening Elixir for Ah-Tai, and the one with the attached Cataclysmic ability for Eagle.


    After all, with Ah-Tai''s size and combat strength, it was likely he would develop some powerful Cataclysmic ability.


    As for Eagle... looking so listless, it would be good enough if he could become a Cataclysmic.


    They were also Qiu Tu''s most loyal and closely bonded subordinates. Cultivating them, Qiu Tu wouldn''t be at a loss.


    As for why he waited until now to cultivate them.


    The main reason was...


    Loyalty isn''t omnipotent; throughout history, many a once-loyal subordinate spawned ambition from their own growing power and influence, eventually turning against their master.


    Although Qiu Tu trusted in Ah-Tai and Eagle''s loyalty, he didn''t want to put their allegiance to the test.


    Prior to this, Qiu Tu was only a First-Order Cataclysmic. Should Ah-Tai and Eagle become more powerful and truly develop their own ambitions, Qiu Tu would have no way to control them.


    Now that he had advanced to Second Order, these concerns had dissipated like smoke...


    Moreover, Qiu Tu wasn''t planning to simply hand them the rewards. Instead, he intended to make them earn their chances.


    The elixirs could be given to them first, but they must bring enough merit or Cataclysmic Material in exchange, or prepare a new Cataclysmic Potion for the next subordinate.


    Only by establishing a healthy "reward and punishment mechanism" could Qiu Tu''s small organization run positively, offering him more assistance.


    And at that moment, as Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Fuping slowly woke up from her slumber.


    Her face was still flush from the passionate battle of the previous night, her gaze hazy.


    Her soft and smoldering body pressed against Qiu Tu''s chest, flattening like a white pancake.


    "Why did you get up so early..." Liu Fuping whispered in Qiu Tu''s ear...


    Qiu Tu shivered all over, then looked up at Liu Fuping.


    Her watery eyes were filled with desire...


    "I want more..."


    Men cannot resist such a voice, and so, another fierce battle began...


    When Qiu Tu sent Liu Fuping off in a sedan, and she left with a lingering gaze at 3 p.m. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leaning against his rickety car, Qiu Tu watched the military green jeep fading into the distance, took out a cigarette, lit it, and quietly smoked it to the end...


    After this farewell, when they met again, Liu Fuping would no longer be the little investigator who needed his protection against the elements.


    She might well have transformed into some department head, legislative assistant, or other senior official.


    For a moment, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that the "fate" of this life was a bit peculiar.


    The women around him seemed to either rise quickly in rank or already held high positions.


    ''So, is heaven hinting that I stop trying and just enjoy being kept?''


    At this thought, having finished his cigarette, Qiu Tu fiercely stamped out the butt, then resolved in his heart, ''Even if I''m being kept, I''m going to be kept by a hundred homes!''


    ''Can''t be tied down by just one home''s food!''


    ''Having lived a second time, I have to live it carefree!''


    ''To do that, I still need to improve my physical fitness! At the very least, I can''t let that crappy Third Order Cataclysmic look down on me!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu got into the car, ignited it, and drove off full of lofty ambitions toward the Investigation Bureau, ready for a promotion!


    .....


    Meanwhile, at the same time Qiu Tu was driving toward the Investigation Bureau.


    At this time, the Public Security Bureau''s 8.19 Investigation Team was in complete chaos.


    The reason was very simple. That is... the Organizational Department had sent someone to talk to Qiu Tu first thing in the morning to start the promotion process. And yet... Qiu Tu hadn''t come to work all morning.


    Moreover, he wasn''t answering calls, and upon visiting his home, they found he''d moved out...


    And that wasn''t all.


    Apart from the Organizational Department looking for him, there was also a woman named Tan Huimin who claimed to be Qiu Tu''s secretary, sitting in the office waiting for Qiu Tu.


    This left Qiu Tu''s subordinates a bit baffled, not understanding why their boss hadn''t yet been promoted, but his secretary had already been arranged...


    Here, the most excited was the gossiping Song Qing.


    Her large eyes kept glancing at Tan Huimin, then she sneaked over to Cao Dabiao and whispered, "Brother Biao, could this be the boss''s romantic debts??????"


    ------


    This chapter was blocked several times and just released after editing some terms.


    Today, still 3 chapters of 10,000 words ha. Continue with another 10,000 words tomorrow! Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 265 - 217: Taking Office! Perks after the Promotion (10,000-word request for subscriptions!)

    Cao Dabiao was already frantic with Qiu Tu''s "disappearance", and when he heard Song Qing''s gossipy inquiry, he almost couldn''t keep it together.


    However, he was always slippery: there were only two women in the investigation team. Almost anyone who wasn''t blind could see the relationship between Qiu Tu and Liu Fuping. So who could say for sure whether Song Qing was sister-in-law reserve.


    So, although Cao Dabiao was irritated, he still picked up his teacup, took a sip, and then said to Song Qing in a soothing tone, "Investigator Song, we mustn''t casually talk about things without evidence."


    "That could cause trouble for the superiors."


    "Many rumors start like that."


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s gentle criticism, Song Qing stuck out her tongue and then said, "Let''s not talk about the superiors'' romantic debts, let''s talk about Sister Liu instead."


    As she said this, she looked around, then cutely poked Cao Dabiao and whispered secretively, "Sister Liu didn''t come to work yesterday. She''s not here today either."


    "And by coincidence, the superior isn''t here today either."


    "You think... they couldn''t have eloped, could they?"


    "Pfft!" Cao Dabiao nearly spouted his water.


    He hurriedly stood up, then whispered anxiously, "Ma''am, you really mustn''t speculate wildly here."


    "Everyone is already feeling unsettled. You''ll further shake morale."


    Song Qing wasn''t a girl who lacked a sense of reason. She was just really bored.


    Thinking back to their Interrogation Section''s team of four: Qiu Tu, herself, Liu Fuping, Wang Xi, with cases being taken and people leaving, only she was left behind.


    The other investigators in the team were mostly burly men from the Action Division, and she really had no one to chat with, which was why she came to gossip.


    Now, seeing Cao Dabiao looking so nervous, she knew she shouldn''t make wild guesses at this juncture.


    As a result, she could only go back to her own desk, boredly picked up the communicator, and started playing Tetris.


    Meanwhile, at the same time as Song Qing was chatting with Cao Dabiao, Tan Huimin was sitting on a chair, quietly observing everyone in the office.


    The state of the 8.19 investigation team''s members was clearly different from those under her husband Zheng Tao.


    Her husband''s investigators were busy to death every day, barely having a moment to rest, and even then, her husband would make them work overtime.


    So... even though everyone was busy and working at full capacity, they all seemed very repressed, with weariness written all over their faces and not a hint of a smile.


    But the members of the 8.19 investigation team were different.


    It might be because the case was over, or maybe because Qiu Tu treated them very leniently. There were sincere smiles on their faces.


    Whether they were working or just chatting, you could clearly see they all had very close relationships.


    This discovery made Tan Huimin more curious about this investigation team, about Qiu Tu.


    What kind of person could stand out from the high-intensity work at the Investigation Bureau, not only making his subordinates live comfortably but also climbing several ranks within a short period of time...?


    And at that moment, while she was pondering this, suddenly, someone pushed open the door of the office from outside. Ding Xiaoliu ran in excitedly and shouted, "The chief is back at the Bureau, he''s back!"


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s words, the office erupted into excitement.


    Cao Dabiao, the one with the highest position, quickly stood up and asked, "Did you tell the chief about the Organizational Department wanting to talk to him?"


    Ding Xiaoliu quickly nodded, "I did, I did."


    "The chief said he''ll go there right now."


    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu, Cao Dabiao, who had been nervous all day, finally relaxed.


    And all the people in the office were jubilant.


    After all... after having been around Qiu Tu for so long, everyone knew that Qiu Tu was never someone who only cared about his own advancement and wealth.


    After Qiu Tu got promoted, he would definitely not forget them.


    And as for the Deputy Minister of the Political Department... that could be said to be a position of power ranking in the top 15, or even top 10, of the entire Investigation Bureau.


    To put it inappropriately, if Qiu Tu rose to grace, they could all ascend to heaven on his coattails...


    And of course, all of this was observed by Tan Huimin.


    As she watched everyone''s exuberant cheer, she felt incredibly alienated...


    She had been with the Investigation Bureau for a long time and witnessed quite a few promotions of superiors or colleagues.


    To be honest, she had never seen such genuinely happy reactions before¡ªmost were just happy on the surface, while secretly being sarcastic or displeased.


    ''These people... seem to really like and admire Qiu Tu?''


    Making a mental note, Tan Huimin became even more curious about what kind of person Qiu Tu was.


    She felt that even if she couldn''t get any useful information from Qiu Tu, as long as she could understand why his subordinates were so loyal and teach it to her own husband, a few days of discomfort would be worth it...


    Thinking this, she couldn''t help but look towards the door, anticipating her meeting with Qiu Tu...


    ...


    Meanwhile. While Tan Huimin was concocting her plan to learn from others, Qiu Tu had also arrived at the Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department.


    The one who received Qiu Tu was the Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department Minister, one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Bureau, Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin was a man in his forties with thinning hair.


    Qiu Tu had once heard Tang Feifei mention that Shi Youxin was an old colleague of Yan Chen back at the military academy.


    After Yan Chen rose to prominence, Shi Youxin resigned and went to work under him, having been one of Yan Chen''s key confidants ever since.


    He was known for his slickness, as slippery as non-stick rice cakes, and usually hung out with the Deputy Director of Administration from the same Eighth Sanctuary Officer School, Yu Zhengyi.


    The two of them, having teamed up, although not powerful, still held a certain amount of sway within Yan Chen''s faction.


    Facing Qiu Tu, Shi Youxin fully embodied an old slickster.


    He was neither overly warm nor unfriendly. Instead, he dealt with Qiu Tu in a manner that was both by-the-book and subtly accommodating.


    "Yan Chen ah... I didn''t expect we''d meet again so soon."


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Qiu Tu smiled humbly and replied, "That means I have a fate with Minister Shi."


    "It seems that in the future, we need to interact more often."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s smooth, flattering response, Shi Youxin "haha" laughed twice before replying, "Indeed, we should interact more."


    "I''ve been wanting to have more conversations with you, but there just hasn''t been the chance."


    "Once this busy period is over, we must definitely exchange more."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also smiled and said, "No problem. When the time comes, we can go to Emerald Fort to watch horse races, sing, and have fun with facial cleansers together."


    Indeed, nothing closes the gap between two men faster than chatting about borderline topics. As soon as Youxin heard this, he could scarcely contain his smile, repeatedly saying, "Good, good, that''s great."


    After speaking, he picked up his thermos and took a sip.


    The thermos was filled with half a cup of goji berries, turning the water deep red.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu felt that the image of Shi Youxin in his heart became much more vivid: Here was a man dedicated to his life''s strength...


    Just after they exchanged a few casual words, Shi Youxin coughed lightly and started talking about the main topic.


    His expression gradually turned serious as he looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Chief Qiu, the reason I called you here is to inform you about an important personnel arrangement."


    Upon hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Qiu Tu sat up straight and responded respectfully, "Please tell me."


    Shi Youxin said, "After discussion by the Investigation Bureau''s senior meeting and approval by the Municipal Committee, we have decided to relieve you of your position as Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division in the Political Department, and to appoint you as Vice Minister of the Political Department."


    Even though he had known the outcome since yesterday, Qiu Tu''s heart still couldn''t help but pound when he heard Shi Youxin announce it!


    He nodded solemnly and then said, "I definitely will not let the leaders down and will assist in managing the Political Department well."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Shi Youxin nodded slightly before taking out documents and materials for Qiu Tu to fill out.


    Initially, Qiu Tu thought he had to fill out his archives, but when he received the documents, he realized they were all related to confirming his benefits.


    Like... an exclusive sedan, an exclusive villa, a small resting room on the 12th floor, and so on.


    The Organizational Department would start making preparations once Qiu Tu filled them out.


    Qiu Tu filled out the forms hastily and then handed them back to Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin skimmed through them briefly and then chuckled, saying, "Minister Qiu leads quite a simple life."


    On the forms, Qiu Tu had actually not written much, just putting down the word "Whatever" for some mandatory options.


    After all, he didn''t really pursue materialistic living that much.


    After completing the forms, Shi Youxin handed over the official appointment documents, credentials, and epaulets to Qiu Tu.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu took off his epaulets in front of him: changing from one bar and two stars to one bar and three stars.


    According to military ranks, Qiu Tu was now a Major, on par with Qin Shuman.


    And having received the appointment documents, credentials, and epaulets, Qiu Tu felt as if his body was undergoing some changes in the mysterious depths.


    But since Shi Youxin was still by his side, he temporarily couldn''t perceive or examine the changes.


    After handing over the documents, credentials, and epaulets, Shi Youxin also followed protocol and led Qiu Tu to the Political Department to meet the other two vice ministers.


    The other two vice ministers were named Cai and Zhang.


    Both were veterans of the Political Department and were confidants of Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    According to Tang Feifei, both had also graduated from the Eighth Sanctuary Officer School and were deemed pure and loyal successors of Yan Chen''s lineage.


    Deputy Minister Cai was Qiu Tu''s "previous superior" and mainly in charge of the Action Division, making him one of the most powerful in the Political Department.


    Vice Minister Zhang, Qiu Tu''s "previous superior" too, was responsible for espionage and counter-espionage work.


    The other tasks such as interrogation, intelligence, and supervision were directly managed by Jia Shu himself.


    The portion of work Qiu Tu had his eye on was part of the remnants of what Jia Shu was responsible for...


    Hence, faced with two vice ministers who might become his superiors, Qiu Tu adopted a very humble posture, openly expressing his desire to learn from them.


    In comparison, the two senior vice ministers offered Qiu Tu a somewhat ambiguous reception.


    Perhaps influenced by Yan Chen and Jia Shu, they were somewhat distant and unaffectionate toward Qiu Tu.


    But when Qiu Tu took the initiative and offered to take responsibility for the "Intelligence" business, they did not object but remarked that they would discuss it in a meeting later.


    After meeting with his two colleagues, Shi Youxin returned to the Organizational Department. He then arranged for a young lady from the department to continue the procedural matters with Qiu Tu.


    Next, guided by the young lady, Qiu Tu visited his new private office on the 9th floor and the small resting room on the 12th floor.


    As a deputy division chief, although Qiu Tu couldn''t enjoy the type of 200 to 300 square-meter office and resting suites that Yan Chen and Tang Feifei had, his treatment was still not inferior.


    His office on the 9th floor was a small suite totaling over 100 square meters, with a secretary''s office at the very front, the office itself in the middle, followed by a bedroom further inside.


    It was convenient for Qiu Tu to rest directly in the office if he was tired from work.


    The small resting room on the 12th floor was even more extravagant, being a three-bedroom layout with a living room. The outer hall could be used for receiving guests, while the three bedrooms could be tailored into a home theater, a gym, and so on.


    Honestly, having lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu was enjoying such over-the-top perks for the first time.


    At that moment, all he wanted to say was... indeed there is a reason why so many people pursue promotions and wealth!


    After finishing showing Qiu Tu around the office and resting room, the young lady saluted and left.


    As she put it, she was going to continue selecting an exclusive villa and car for Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu didn''t try to keep her, not because the young lady wasn''t attractive, but because he was eager to examine the changes in his own body after the upgrade! Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    --------

 Chapter 267 - 219: Pull One Faction Against Another (10,000 Words to Request Monthly Tickets)

    It was precisely because he understood Minister Cai''s personality that, before coming to the meeting, Qiu Tu had spent two minutes meticulously arranging his dress.


    He strove to ensure there was not a single wrinkle on his person, with every epaulette and pocket impeccably orderly.


    Therefore, when Minister Cai saw Qiu Tu entering, his gaze first critically swept up and down Qiu Tu''s figure twice.


    After not finding any detail he could take issue with, his head gave an almost imperceptible nod....


    Qiu Tu keenly captured Minister Cai''s subtle expression and chuckled silently to himself, knowing his first step was successful.


    As early as yesterday, when he knew he had become the deputy head of the Political Department, Qiu Tu had already gotten a clear picture of his two rivals and colleagues from Liu Fuping.


    Even while getting Liu Fuping drunk to the point of collapse, Qiu Tu did not forget to ask for some intelligence.


    It could be said he was inputting "devotion" while also being devoted.


    After all, Qiu Tu knew that using pressure from the three major departments to become the deputy head must have shocked many onlookers yesterday.


    But precisely because of this defiant move against the internal tacit understanding of the Investigation Bureau, the conflict between him and Yan Chen had become more intense on the surface.


    Everyone knew that although he had become the deputy head, his situation at the Investigation Bureau and within the Political Department would become even more difficult.


    There were many people throughout the Bureau keeping an eye on him, watching this small meeting to see if he would be completely marginalized.


    So, on the way to send Liu Fuping off this morning, Qiu Tu also discussed with Liu Fuping for a long time about how to gain a foothold in the Political Department, and how to take over the Intelligence division from the two senior deputy heads.


    Fortunately, after a day and a night of contemplation, Qiu Tu had indeed thought of a way.


    Overall, given that Qiu Tu was disliked by Yan Chen and had managed to bring down Jia Shu, it was extremely difficult for him to obtain the important responsibility of Intelligence.


    After all, both Minister Cai and Minister Zhang had their preconceptions against Qiu Tu and would not support his work.


    So, if he wanted to achieve this goal, the best method was still the most commonly used by our ancestors: ally with one and fight against the other.


    Only by dividing the two deputy heads, making them enemies of each other, unable to suppress him together, could Qiu Tu possibly establish himself within the upper echelons of the Political Department and gain the Intelligence division he coveted.


    And the target he chose to court was clearly the former boss sitting before him, Deputy Minister Cai Peiyuan, who now managed the Political Department temporarily....


    Preparing his dress according to Cai Peiyuan''s preferences was the first step: gain favor....


    And next would be the second step....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu sat down to the right of Cai Peiyuan and casually remarked, "I didn''t expect to be the first to arrive with Minister Cai."


    Qiu Tu''s simple sentence carried implicit depth.


    If he and Cai Peiyuan had arrived first, then... didn''t that mean Minister Zhang was late?


    Thus, he inconspicuously formed a small alliance with Cai Peiyuan while subtly insinuating that Minister Zhang held a lack of respect for this meeting or for Cai Peiyuan.


    Sure enough, although Cai Peiyuan''s expression seemed unchanged, his eyebrows furrowed slightly.


    He did not engage with the conversation but instead proactively brought up the topic of the meeting, saying to Qiu Tu, "To be honest, it was quite unexpected for Minister Qiu to stand out from so many candidates and become the deputy head."


    "So, the purpose of this small meeting is firstly to congratulate Minister Qiu, and secondly to decide on Minister Qiu''s future division of work within the department."


    The words of Cai Peiyuan sounded right on the surface, yet they contained a hint of mockery.


    Qiu Tu understood the sentiment very well. After all, according to the intelligence he received last night, Cai Peiyuan was a confidant cultivated by Jia Shu himself, deeply loyal to him.


    Qiu Tu, the main culprit in bringing down Jia Shu, was naturally not to his liking.


    But.... again, in politics, there are neither permanent friends nor permanent enemies.


    As long as Qiu Tu could bring to Cai Peiyuan what he desired, he could become his friend.


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    With that thought, Qiu Tu gave a small smile and responded, "Then first, I would like to thank Minister Cai."


    "Speaking of division of work, I wonder what you think about my previous suggestion that I temporarily take charge of Supervision, Interrogation, and Intelligence?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cai Peiyuan let out a "hehe" and laughed.


    He picked up the teacup in front of him and took a sip, then beat around the bush, "This is something to discuss during the small meeting. Minister Qiu is a bit too eager."


    After finishing his tea, he placed the lid back on the teacup and set it down.


    Perhaps because it was slightly misaligned as he set it down, he subtly adjusted the teacup so the handle was perfectly facing him.


    Qiu Tu watched this scene with a faint smile and then subtly remarked, "Minister Cai is right. This should indeed wait until Minister Zhang arrives."


    "After all... it was reported to the Sanctuary that both you and Minister Zhang were being considered, who knows whether it will be you or him who becomes the head."


    "If we discuss at length and Minister Zhang disagrees, it would all be for naught."


    Qiu Tu''s words caused Cai Peiyuan to pause briefly in his movements. Then he fell silent for two seconds before he looked up and gazed deeply at Qiu Tu.


    He wasn''t taking the bait of this childish reverse psychology, but... understood that Qiu Tu was hinting at something: He and Minister Zhang still had a core conflict¡ªthe struggle for the ministerial position wasn''t resolved yet!


    This was the second step of Qiu Tu''s plan: to sow division between Deputy Ministers Cai and Zhang.


    With this in mind, Cai Peiyuan couldn''t help but ask with a smirk, "Does Minister Qiu have some opinions?"


    Qiu Tu''s gaze shifted to the office door, then he held his teacup, speaking slowly and deliberately, "Of course."


    Once he noticed that Cai Peiyuan began to take his words seriously, he didn''t hold back any longer and said directly, "After Minister Jia''s incident, the Bureau Chief almost immediately named you to temporarily manage the operations of the Political Department."


    "Although it can''t be considered a direct appointment by the Bureau Chief, it is a very obvious political statement."


    "At that time, almost everyone in the Investigation Bureau took it for granted that you would be the future Head of the Political Department, the new high-level executive."


    "And even if you don''t end up becoming the Director of the Political Department, then it must be someone new parachuted in from the Sanctuary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s analysis, Cai Peiyuan nodded with a bit of pride¡ªbecause that was indeed the case.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu continued, "But who expected that at yesterday''s high-level meeting, Minister Zhang would suddenly emerge, with the support of three high-level executives to succeed as the Head of the Political Department."


    At this point, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, "I must say, this is not a good sign."


    Clearly, Cai Peiyuan was aware of this, but his expression remained unchanged, merely sipping water to conceal his feelings.


    Qiu Tu glanced at him and went on, "You probably know the final outcome of the meeting. Both you and Minister Zhang''s names were reported to the Sanctuary."


    "It''s up to the Sanctuary to decide whether you or he will take over as minister."


    At this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, "Although I''m not sure if you have any backup plans within the Sanctuary."


    "But at least on the surface, you and Minister Zhang are evenly matched." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Cai Peiyuan, also an old hand in officialdom, remained inscrutable despite Qiu Tu''s spot-on analysis. He merely drank his tea with a deep, contemplative gaze.


    However, from the angle at which he drank his tea, his cup not at a 90-degree angle to his mouth, it seemed his heart was not as calm as he appeared.


    Qiu Tu felt a surge of confidence within. He was finally ready to proceed with the third step of his plan: to emphasize his own importance.


    He first paused for two seconds, giving Cai Peiyuan some time to rest and think, then slowly began to speak, "The Art of War says: A general should not worry about victory, but rather worry about the possibility of defeat. Therefore, they can be undefeated in a hundred battles."


    "If the Sanctuary decides in the end that you are to take over as the minister, then everything would obviously be perfect."


    "But if... the Sanctuary ultimately chooses Minister Zhang..."


    "Hehe..." Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, then said, "Minister Zhang should be a magnanimous man. He probably won''t mind you, the former acting head and his biggest competitor..."


    Cai Peiyuan: ....


    Qiu Tu knew it was time for the final push, so he spoke bluntly, "However, even if Minister Zhang is generous, after he becomes minister, he surely won''t leave all three major sectors¡ªAction, Interrogation, and Intelligence¡ªto you, will he?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes darkened as he looked at Cai Peiyuan, speaking softly, his voice like the whisper of a devil, "Minister Cai, guess... which sector might Minister Zhang take away?"


    "Is it Interrogation, which has some power? Or Intelligence, that''s both dirty and tiring?"


    "Or... the Action Division, which not only has great power and influence but is also vast in its military and leadership?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cai Peiyuan let out a deep sigh.


    Seeing his reaction, Qiu Tu lowered his head to drink his tea, then said softly, "Power that isn''t in hand is always ethereal."


    "Better to benefit a friend than an opponent."


    "This way, whether or not you become the minister in the end, you will have the most steadfast ally."


    "I have been promoted several times in rapid succession, so it''s impossible for me to compete with you."


    "But it''s different with Old Zhang..."


    "Even if you get promoted, he can still pull you down, then step up himself..."


    Toward the end, Qiu Tu''s voice grew fainter¡ªbecause he heard footsteps from outside.


    Sure enough, as he uttered the last word, Minister Zhang stepped into the meeting room.


    He glanced around the office, then nodded at Cai Peiyuan first, stating coldly, "Old Cai, you guys are pretty early."


    "Yes."


    Upon hearing Minister Zhang''s greeting, Cai Peiyuan revealed an exceedingly "sincere" smile,


    "We both... were just waiting for you."


    -------


    Chapter of 10,000 words, ha. We''ll continue with another 10,000 words tomorrow! Ask for Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 269 - 221: First Contact with Tan Huimin (10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As a spy sent by her own husband.


    Tan Huimin actually found it a bit hard to empathize with Song Qing, Ding Xiaoliu, and the others.


    After all... she had never met Qiu Tu before. Qiu Tu''s promotion had no benefit for her whatsoever.


    So, she could only sit dumbly by the door, watching everyone cheer.


    It was then that the office door was gently opened.


    Upon hearing the sound, Tan Huimin looked up and then saw a very handsome young man stepping into the office.


    The youth was dressed in a black Political Department uniform, which, fitting perfectly on his figure, bestowed him with an impressive and upright appearance.


    Both men and women tend to have an extra filter for attractive members of the opposite sex; Tan Huimin was no exception.


    With just one glance, she felt that the young man in front of her... did not look like a bad person. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But since she couldn''t see the young man''s epaulet, she also couldn''t figure out his identity.


    At this time, the young man had obviously noticed Tan Huimin as well.


    He smiled at Tan Huimin, then quietly closed the office door, and asked, "How long have they been making noise?"


    The young man had a pleasant voice, and Tan Huimin softly replied, "Two or three minutes."


    After speaking, she involuntarily added, "Their boss got a promotion. They''re celebrating."


    Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, the young man smiled, then gently closed the door and asked, "By the way, I haven''t asked¡ªwho are you?"


    After hearing the young man''s words, Tan Huimin gathered her hair and said with downcast eyes, "My name is Tan Huimin, a Second-Class Investigator from the Administrative Office."


    "Now I am their boss''s secretary."


    "Their boss''s secretary?" The young man seemed a bit surprised when he heard this.


    He sized up Tan Huimin and then inquired, "Is the Administrative Office so efficient?"


    "I remember... their boss just got promoted this afternoon, and the secretary has already been assigned tonight?"


    Hearing the young man''s words, Tan Huimin felt embarrassed.


    She definitely couldn''t talk about the bet her husband made with Qiu Tu.


    That would not only embarrass her husband but also... make her seem especially cheap.


    So, she could only silently nod her head.


    Seeing this, the young man didn''t think too much about it. He patted Tan Huimin on the shoulder and said, "Well then, from now on, we are all one of us."


    "Don''t worry, if you work well with me, promotions and salary increases won''t be a problem."


    "If you encounter any difficulties, you can also talk directly to me. Anything I can solve, I will help you with."


    Hearing the young man''s reassurance, Tan Huimin smiled awkwardly and thanked him, "Thank you."


    After thanking him, Tan Huimin hesitated a bit, then suddenly realized the implication of "work well with me, promotions, and salary increases won''t be a problem."


    She was suddenly taken aback, and then looked at the handsome young man in surprise.


    By that time, the handsome young man had already stepped into the office and was being surrounded by the crowd, receiving their congratulations.


    Tan Huimin involuntarily stood up, and then looked at the handsome young man''s shoulder rank insignia, which clearly had a bar and three flowers embroidered on it.


    ''Is that Qiu Tu?!''


    Now that she had finally recognized Qiu Tu, Tan Huimin felt almost blank in her mind for a moment.


    Possibly because she had often heard her husband mention Qiu Tu, talk about Qiu Tu''s swift promotions, the conspiracies, treacheries...


    In Tan Huimin''s mind, Qiu Tu should have been nearly thirty, skinny, cold-looking, and might even have a hooked nose.


    However... when she actually met Qiu Tu, she found he was completely different from what she imagined.


    Could such a sunny, handsome man really be a scheming villain?


    Possibly because of her prejudiced impression earlier on, for a moment, Tan Huimin felt almost unable to accept it.


    It took her several seconds to collect herself, continuously reminding herself in her mind, "Appearances can be deceiving," "Appearances can be deceiving," before she managed to pull her emotions back together.


    By this time, Qiu Tu had already received rounds of congratulations from his subordinates.


    He was also not modest with his own people, not only accepting all the congratulations but also directly told all his subordinates, "The workday is over already, so I won''t bother the Organizational Department and other sections."


    "Tomorrow as soon as work starts, I will help everyone adjust their positions."


    "By then, you all need to shine and heat up in your new posts."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s promise, the spirits of the investigators present soared even higher.


    After all, besides Qiu Tu''s personal charisma, they followed him for promotions and wealth, didn''t they?


    And on this count, Qiu Tu never let everyone down...


    Tan Hui Min watched the scene before her, feeling an utter sense of unfamiliarity.


    The fervent atmosphere, the genuine adulation from the subordinates, she seemed to have never witnessed such a thing in her husband''s department¡ªor even in the Administrative Office.


    Whether at the Public Security Bureau or the Administrative Office, or even before where her husband was at the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, it seemed as if everyone was playing it cool, engaging in cutthroat competition.


    Even if there were indeed friends with a good relationship, they would be two or three people lurking in a corner, whispering secretively, rather than like now where everyone appeared to be "family"...


    ''Right, just like a family...'' With this realization, Tan Hui Min became even more astonished by the scene before her.


    She couldn''t help but turn her gaze to Qiu Tu, who was surrounded by people in the center.


    ''This young man, what kind of charm does he possess that he can make so many subordinates dedicatedly loyal, treating him as they would their own family?''


    While Tan Hui Min was thinking this, Qiu Tu also turned his attention to her.


    Qiu Tu called out, "Oh, what''s your name?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tan Hui Min snapped back to reality and quickly replied, "My name is Tan Hui Min."


    Qiu Tu gave a slight nod then smiled and said to everyone, "Alright, if there''s nothing else, you all should go off work and get some rest."


    "As for me, I''ll stay a bit longer to work overtime. I need to sort out the situation across several departments."


    "After I finish organizing things tonight, I''ll write down what arrangements I have for you all. I''ll give it to Miss Tan."


    "Tomorrow, Miss Tan will take you to handle the formalities."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the subordinates cheered once more.


    In this way, after a noisy celebration for a while longer, the subordinates gradually left the office one by one.


    Unexpectedly, Little Liu, the epitome of efficiency at leaving work, turned out to be the last one to leave.


    She dawdled until everyone else was gone, leaving only Qiu Tu and Tan Hui Min in the office.


    Only then did she tiptoe over to Qiu Tu and said somewhat hesitantly, "Boss... can I ask you for a favor?"


    Hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu, who was packing up documents planning to take them back to his own office, couldn''t help but glance at her, then he asked, "What is it?"


    Song Qing whispered, "My father wants to meet you this weekend."


    Hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu, puzzled, looked up at her.


    Song Qing hurriedly explained, "Boss, don''t get the wrong idea."


    "My father just found out that you saved me and simply wants to thank you in person."


    What Song Qing referred to as "saving her" meant she was nearly tricked by Wang Xi, almost leading both her and her circle of close friends into Wang Xi''s evil clutches.


    It was Qiu Tu who had realized something was amiss and then informed her of Wang Xi''s true identity, warning her not to go out, not to meet with Wang Xi alone, and assigning her to keep an eye on Wang Xi at the bureau. (Chapter 162)


    However... this clearly was just an excuse from Song Qing''s father.


    If Qiu Tu wasn''t mistaken, the real reason her father wanted to see him was probably the power that came with his new position, ranking him among the top 40 in Xinjie City!


    Unfortunately, Qiu Tu had no interest in such meaningless social engagements right now.


    His current focus was still on the information regarding Moonlight Lake and Larilo. At most... plus the establishment of Dongye State.


    So, thinking this, he simply declined, "I''ve received your gratitude, but no need for dinner. I..."


    He''d originally thought to find some random excuse to brush it off, but who would''ve known that as soon as Song Qing heard Qiu Tu''s refusal, she exclaimed with excitement "Yay!" and then said, "Boss, you can''t go back on your word!"


    "You agreed not to go!"


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu looked at Song Qing, a question mark over his head, then tentatively asked, "So... the favor you were asking for was actually to reject your father?"


    Song Qing sheepishly stuck out her tongue and then said, "Yeah, he''s so annoying. He obviously wants to butter you up because you''ve been promoted! I rejected him several times, but he insisted I ask, which was so irritating!"


    After saying that, Song Qing blew a kiss at Qiu Tu, "Thanks, Boss! I knew you were the best! Thank you for turning him down~"


    With that, she picked up her bag and bounced off to leave work.


    Qiu Tu: ....


    "Pffft." At this moment, Tan Hui Min, who had witnessed the entire exchange, could no longer hold back and inadvertently laughed out loud.


    She felt that this boss and subordinate pair were really interesting. The boss didn''t act like a boss, the subordinate didn''t act like a subordinate.


    She had never encountered such an interaction pattern in the strictly hierarchical Investigation Bureau.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, hearing Tan Hui Min''s laughter, also snapped back to the moment.


    He glanced at Tan Hui Min, his gaze shifting slightly, then suddenly spoke up, "Miss Tan, if I''m not mistaken, you''re not my secretary, are you? Who exactly are you?"


    -----------


    3 chapters, 10,000 words, ha. Chapters 3 will be updated from 23-24 o''clock. Requesting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 270 - 222 Qiu Tu: Youre Mrs. Zheng Tao, Right? (10,000 Words to Ask for Subscription)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, who just had a smile on her face, suddenly changed her expression and couldn''t smile anymore.


    Actually, she didn''t mean to deceive Qiu Tu just now. She just didn''t recognize him and mistook him for a regular agent.


    And explaining too much about her own identity would be awfully embarrassing. So when Qiu Tu asked, she casually said she was his secretary.


    She hadn''t thought much of it before. Now, when Qiu Tu brought it up proactively, she suddenly realized that her previous introduction was improper¡ªthere was a suspicion of impersonating an identity.


    Therefore, she quickly opened her mouth, ready to explain.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu raised his hand to interrupt her, "Let me guess..."


    Qiu Tu stood up, walked over to Tan Huimin, then cupped his chin, circled around her, and appraised her from head to toe.


    It must be said, Tan Huimin was a very charming woman. Perhaps she was of a ripe age. Her figure was voluptuous, with curves in all the right places.


    Although her waist wasn''t as slender as Liu Fuping''s, the slightly plump figure added a different kind of charm to her.


    Having lived two lifetimes, Qiu Tu had experienced all types of women, so he knew that it was this kind of slightly fleshy woman who was the most comfortable in certain aspects.


    She was indeed a perfect artillery mount.


    And after appraising her for a moment, Qiu Tu slowly opened his mouth, "If I''m not mistaken, you should be Zheng Tao''s secretary, right?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin breathed a sigh of relief and quickly nodded, "Yes."


    She bowed slightly towards Qiu Tu, then said, "Deputy Director Zheng said you''ve just been promoted to deputy division chief, and it''s the busiest time for your work, you need a secretary to assist by your side."


    "So, he asked me to fill in until your secretary is in place."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu laughed twice and then said bluntly, "Is that what Director Zheng told you?"


    "He really is flattering himself then."


    Qiu Tu''s smile faded, and he said candidly, "Director Zheng didn''t send you over to help me for my own good."


    "It''s because he lost a bet to me, so he gave you to me as his loss."


    Overwhelmed by Qiu Tu''s blunt words, Tan Huimin felt quite embarrassed.


    She endured the humiliation and forced a smile, saying, "Is.... Is that so?"


    Seeing her react this way, Qiu Tu looked at her intently, then said, "Well, since you''re here, I''ll treat you as one of us."


    "Take the documents that are organized on the table and come with me to the new office."


    Sensing that Qiu Tu had finally dropped the topic, Tan Huimin finally let out a sigh of relief. She saluted him quickly, "Yes, sir."


    After saying that, she hurried to Qiu Tu''s desk with her plump and shapely legs.


    Picking up the file box Qiu Tu had organized, Tan Huimin followed him out of the temporary office.


    Walking toward the elevator, Qiu Tu received countless sycophantic smiles and respectful salutes along the way. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No matter by what means Qiu Tu had done it, he was now the deputy division chief of the Political Department, and moreover, one with real power over three major areas of business.


    Qiu Tu had become a personage indeed, an existence that all the lower-level agents, and even most section chiefs and division chiefs, would look up to and try to curry favor with.


    Even the elevator ride had begun to afford Qiu Tu the privilege of one person per elevator: upon seeing him and Tan Huimin enter the elevator, the agents who had been there hurried out, giving Qiu Tu a salute.


    Qiu Tu, for his part, didn''t stand on ceremony, smiled and nodded his head, then watched as the elevator doors closed and started to ascend slowly.


    Tan Huimin had witnessed everyone''s attitude towards Qiu Tu from start to finish. To tell the truth, she was a bit surprised.


    The Public Security Bureau and the Political Department were at the same level, and a deputy division chief was at the same level as a deputy department chief, but she had never seen her husband receive such treatment.


    And as she thought this.


    Suddenly, Qiu Tu, looking at the slowly ascending elevator and with an expressionless face, began to speak, "The Political Department is different from other departments."


    "It supervises the three big institutions and all the major departments. Spying, counter-spying."


    "Arrest first then interrogate, torture to extract confessions."


    "Some operations that are illegal in other departments are legal in the Political Department."


    "Such authority and deterrence cannot be compared to ordinary departments like the Public Security Bureau, which merely suppresses the common people."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin was startled at first, and then she understood that Qiu Tu was addressing her doubts.


    She couldn''t help but look up at Qiu Tu in surprise, as if asking, how do you know what I''m thinking?


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu looked down at her and pointed at his handsome face, "Everything you''re thinking is written all over your face."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu faced the elevator doors again, adding softly, "You''re not cut out for spying. Mrs. Zheng....."


    "Snap!"


    Qiu Tu''s words were light, but to Tan Huimin, they sounded like thunderclaps in her ears!


    Tan Huimin''s body shook, and her hands involuntarily loosened, resulting in Qiu Tu''s box of documents scattering all over the floor.


    Tan Huimin panicked and knelt down at Qiu Tu''s feet, then began to pick up the documents from below his legs.


    Qiu Tu looked down at the beautiful young woman beneath him, stepped aside, and said, "Don''t be nervous. I''m not some man-eating beast."


    While he spoke, the elevator arrived at the 9th floor and slowly opened.


    There were quite a few agents waiting for the elevator outside.


    They saw Qiu Tu standing, Tan Huimin kneeling, and the documents scattered across the floor, and were utterly confused about what had happened.


    But they all recognized Qiu Tu, so they quickly saluted and stepped aside.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu coldly dropped a sentence, "Pick them up and bring them to my office."


    After saying that, he strode away with his athletic gait, leaving the elevator with the sound of his boots.


    Tan Huimin was left alone in the empty elevator, under the watchful eyes of countless agents, her face a burning red and her eyes brimming with tears as she picked up the documents.


    However, once he left the elevator entrance and walked alone down the corridor, Qiu Tu''s expressionless face collapsed.


    His brows furrowed deeply, his face filled with shock and disbelief.


    ''That woman is actually Zheng Tao''s wife?!''


    ''Has Zheng Tao gone mad?!''


    ''He actually secretly made his own wife be his secretary, and after losing a bet, he really sent her to me?''


    ''Doesn''t he fear I might devour his wife?''


    Qiu Tu did not think of himself as a paragon of virtue in Zheng Tao''s eyes.


    In times of chaos, which powerful man doesn''t partake in the flesh presented to him? Especially when it''s handed to him on a platter!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but speculate on Zheng Tao''s motives.


    ''After losing the bet, he couldn''t swallow his pride? Thinking it''s just for two days, I wouldn''t make a move, so he took a gamble?''


    ''He wants to set me up, using his own wife to tempt me, to make me slip up, and then take me down?''


    ''A modern-day honeytrap?''


    ''It surely can''t be that he was coerced to send his wife to me, right?''


    Question after question surfaced in Qiu Tu''s mind, shrouding Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin under layers of dense fog.


    Qiu Tu felt it would be best to investigate Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin to find out what this couple was up to before making a long-term plan.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of that big shot with the dubious relationship with Jia Shu: Huang Shangzong;


    He thought of the Heretic Goddess Girl who had always been preoccupied with him: Larilo;


    He thought of the Evil God Cultist lurking in the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau;


    He thought of Moonlight Lake, which was about to emerge, drawing the attention of various forces.


    Qiu Tu felt... it was essential to meet with Qin Shuman and have a "deep" conversation to see if they could work together.


    In the past, Qiu Tu was just a lowly agent or a division chief with a title but no real power, with no grounds for cooperation with the Security Department or Qin Shuman.


    But now, he was entirely different.


    As the Deputy Division Chief of the Political Department, even when standing in front of the Security Department Director Dai Yukang, Dai had to treat him with caution.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took out the specially made communicator from the Security Department and sent a brief message to Qin Shuman.


    The content of the message was simple, just one line: Tonight at 10, the usual place. Have a proposition for you.


    Qin Shuman did not reply immediately.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu entered his own private office that Qin Shuman finally responded with a single word: Okay.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile.


    He felt that tonight would be quite enjoyable...


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was contemplating, the sound of Tan Huimin''s high heels, "click... click..." approached from outside his office.


    Shortly after, Tan Huimin indeed came in holding the box of documents.


    Perhaps because she had time to compose herself, her composure had returned, and she even found the courage to look Qiu Tu in the eye.


    First, she placed the box of documents on Qiu Tu''s desk and then stood prettily in front of him, asking, "Chief, how... did you know who I am?"


    -----


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters, haha. Continuing with 10,000 per day tomorrow! Seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 272 - 224: The Devil that Plays with Peoples Hearts (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu keenly sensed Tan Hui Min''s state of collapse, and with a gentle lead, sure enough, Tan Hui Min''s whole body trembled as he embraced her into his arms.


    Qiu Tu cradled her and gently patted Tan Hui Min''s back, soothing her, "Madam, there''s no need to be afraid."


    "As long as you listen to me."


    "I won''t hurt you, nor will I hurt your husband."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min, with red-rimmed eyes, raised her head and asked, "Really... really?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded his head.


    Then he let go of Tan Hui Min and walked back to his office desk before saying, "I honestly don''t wish to be an enemy of Director Zheng either."


    "In the political arena, ha, it''s certainly better to have more friends than enemies."


    "Don''t you think so, Madam?"


    Even though she felt that Qiu Tu was deceiving her, now... Tan Hui Min really had no other choice.


    So, she could only meekly nod her head in agreement.


    Seeing that he had finally subdued this woman, Qiu Tu was not in a hurry to continue brainwashing her; he knew well the principle of moderation in all things.


    So he gestured towards the inside resting room, "Alright, since we''ve reached a preliminary collaboration. For now, continue to be my secretary, Madam."


    "First, help me clean up the office."


    Housework was indeed something Tan Hui Min was good at, so upon hearing Qiu Tu''s arrangement, she quickly and obediently agreed, heading into the resting room to tidy up for Qiu Tu. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once Tan Hui Min had left, however, Qiu Tu reached for the tape recorder on the bookshelf.


    He opened the slot of the tape recorder, which only contained one "untouched" tape.


    Qiu Tu, expressionless, took out the blank tape and, with a pen, wrote "Tan Hui Min" in large characters on it.


    Then he opened the drawer and tossed the tape inside.


    He wasn''t Zhuge Liang, nor did he possess such ingenious foresight to predict that Tan Hui Min would truly confess, so of course, he couldn''t have possibly pressed the record button in advance.


    But... no matter. As soon as he wrote those three characters down, the tape existed in this world!


    After cleaning the entire office, Tan Hui Min''s mood had also visibly stabilized.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t keep her any longer but gave her a phone number before letting her leave to go home.


    Tan Hui Min dared not show any rebellious behavior towards Qiu Tu, so she obediently left the office.


    After Tan Hui Min was gone, Qiu Tu also briefly tidied up the documents and then stood up to leave the office, ready for his rendezvous with Qin Shuman tonight.


    However... just about ten minutes after he left,


    suddenly, the lock on his office door began to turn ever so slightly.


    Soon after, with a "click," the door to Qiu Tu''s office was opened from the outside.


    Tan Hui Min, with keys in hand, entered stealthily from the outside.


    She switched on the light, and walked straight to the tape recorder on the bookshelf.


    Carefully, she took down the tape recorder, opened the slot; it was completely empty.


    Tan Hui Min couldn''t help but bite her lip lightly.


    She looked around and eventually had no choice but to bend down and start examining the drawers one by one.


    Soon, she opened the drawer on the far left, one used to store tapes.


    Seeing the tape with her name lying quietly there, Tan Hui Min''s eyes lit up, and she quickly took the tape into her hands, beginning to restore the scene.


    However, just as she was halfway through restoring it, suddenly, her Communicator began to ring "ring ring ring."


    Tan Hui Min jumped in surprise and almost threw the incriminating tape out in her guilty panic.


    Fortunately, at the critical moment, she managed to control her emotions.


    She carefully placed the tape on the desk, then reached for her Communicator to check.


    Upon seeing it, her expression turned drastically.


    Because... the caller ID on the Communicator clearly read "Qiu Tu"!


    Tan Hui Min was startled, hesitant to answer, but remembering the terror of Qiu Tu, she ultimately picked up tremblingly.


    As soon as she answered the call, something even more frightening happened.


    Qiu Tu said, "Madam Zheng... you disappoint me greatly."


    "I didn''t expect you to return to steal the evidence."


    "But you underestimated the vigilance of a Deputy Director of the Political Department."


    "All your actions have been recorded by hidden cameras. And the tape you got... is also a blank tape I had strategically arranged."


    "You had best watch out for yourself."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu hung up the phone.


    At that moment, Tan Huimin, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words and listening to the "du...du..." tone on the phone, was completely dumbfounded.


    She stood still with her mobile phone for a good two seconds before, as if suddenly coming to her senses, she quickly put the tape labeled with her name into the tape recorder and pressed the [Play] button.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t recorded his conversation with Tan Huimin, so... of course, there was no sound on the tape.


    Tan Huimin certainly wouldn''t believe that this was the actual tape. She naturally assumed that the "real tape" had been taken by Qiu Tu, and this one was deliberately left behind to mock her...


    Therefore, after listening to the tape, Tan Huimin completely broke down.


    She felt that Qiu Tu was like a devil playing with people''s hearts, and she was almost broken by him.


    Since Qiu Tu had discovered her identity, one trap after another had left her like a marionette, being led step by step into the abyss.


    Now she had been recorded and videotaped by Qiu Tu. Her identity as a spy was completely confirmed.


    Whether it was she or her husband, they were now entirely in Qiu Tu''s hands. Their future, their lives, all were at the mercy of Qiu Tu''s thoughts...


    She... had never felt so alone and helpless.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was driving, shaking his head as he retracted his ability.


    He had only equipped the tape recorder today; how could he possibly have surveillance or recording devices in his office?


    He had guessed that Tan Huimin would likely come back to take a gamble, so he placed the [Special Communicator] in a hidden corner of the bookshelf.


    He then activated his advanced Cataclysmic ability "Order Space," setting a condition.


    "When the tape is moved, the communicator will automatically dial the first number¡ª which is the number for the communicator provided by Qiu Tu''s Investigation Bureau."


    Therefore, Qiu Tu was able to know immediately when Tan Huimin sneaked into his room and prepared to steal the tape...


    The only difficulty with this rule was the "cost" of waiting for an extended period.


    Fortunately, after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu could reduce and control the scope of "Order Space."


    This significantly reduced the consumption of his spiritual power.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu shook his head and, feeling almost no discomfort, continued to drive toward the Milan Grand Hotel.


    Upon arriving at the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu had just walked into the lobby when a waiter came forward and handed him a room card.


    This was the usual procedure, so Qiu Tu adeptly took the room card, took the elevator, and went upstairs.


    This time, the room number Qin Shuman left for Qiu Tu was: 618.


    But after getting to the sixth floor, Qiu Tu became alert.


    He thought about the two meetings with Qin Shuman in the hotel.


    One time he was pulled into a strange room by Qin Shuman, and another time he was "stabbed" by her with a knife.


    Anyway... that woman always had some special flavor to the encounter.


    So Qiu Tu was also curious about what she would come up with this time.


    But maybe Qiu Tu was overthinking it because nothing happened as he made his way to room 618''s door.


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then took out the room card and placed it against the door lock.


    "Beep" "click..."


    Accompanied by the sound of the door lock working, the door slowly opened.


    Qiu Tu pushed the door and entered, then saw Qin Shuman lying on the bed, sound asleep...


    She seemed indeed a bit tired lately, not just the deep fatigue on her beautiful face, but even without taking off her clothes, she slept fully clothed.


    Not sure if it was the noise of Qiu Tu entering that disturbed her, or the innate vigilance of a spy''s body, her thick and long eyelashes trembled slightly, as if she would wake at any moment...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu didn''t dare to move. He just stood there until he felt Qin Shuman''s breathing become steady again. Then he quietly closed the door and walked in.


    Approaching Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu found several documents on the bedside table.


    They were records of Old Master Qin''s interrogation, investigative materials on the Evil God Girl Lara, basic information on Jia Shu''s backer and the future Speaker of Dongye State Council Huang Shangzong...


    And... the information on Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin he had asked for on the phone with Qin Shuman on the way here.


    During his encounter with Tan Huimin tonight, Qiu Tu had actually discovered a crucial clue from her various statements and behaviors.


    That was, Tan Huimin did not seem to come from the Sanctuary like Zheng Tao. Instead, she seemed to be an ordinary person born and raised in Xinjie City.


    Their relationship and marriage suddenly became quite intriguing...


    --------


    Chapter three, 10,000 words ha. Chapter three will update between 23:00 and 24:00. Soliciting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 273 - 225: Discovering the Secret of Zheng Tao and His Wife (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    After all, today Qiu Tu had probed Tan Huimin for hours.


    The relationship between Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao was clearly very deep.


    But... normally, relationships require cultivation over time. Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin, one living in the Sanctuary, the other previously in the "Disaster Zone," theoretically, should not be able to have such profound interactions.


    If Tan Huimin became Zheng Tao''s girlfriend only after he moved to Xinjie City, eventually marrying her, then their current pattern of interaction seems somewhat inconsistent.


    Tan Huimin obviously regards herself as Zheng Tao''s wife, and Zheng Tao also treats her as his own, trusting her immensely.


    ¡ªThis could be seen from Zheng Tao arranging for her to spy on Qiu Tu.


    After all, Qiu Tu is younger, more handsome, holds a higher position, and has a broader future as a high-level member of the Investigation Bureau.


    If she were just an ordinary girlfriend, with scant emotional attachment, and one who had not even experienced marriage, how could Zheng Tao entrust her with such a sensitive task?


    Therefore, having deduced that Tan Huimin was from Xinjie City, Qiu Tu immediately sensed something amiss.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu glanced again at Qin Shuman, who was still sound asleep.


    Tonight, Qin Shuman was using the body of Yan Chen''s mistress; judging by her current state, she must have been too busy for her original self to come.


    The genes derived from Yan Chen''s wife made this body somewhat resemble Yan Chen''s daughter, Yanyan.


    Only, perhaps, because one was mature and the other was not.


    Thus, Qin Shuman appeared even more glamorous and captivating, unable to hide her radiance even in sleep.


    Yanyan, on the other hand, looked very pure and innocent. Coupled with her young age and gentle character, she had the vibe of the girl next door, a middle school beauty.


    ''White moonlight and red rose?''


    Qiu Tu made a silent assessment in his heart before withdrawing his gaze. He then picked up the files of Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao from the bedside table, prepared to review them while Qin Shuman was asleep.


    As the intelligence officer of the Security Department, Qin Shuman''s information was very comprehensive.


    Even just for the Deputy Division Chief and his wife, the files were incredibly detailed.


    Holding the files, Qiu Tu walked over to the sofa in the room, sat down, found a comfortable position, and then seriously read through both sets of documents.


    After finishing, his brows involuntarily furrowed.


    He first closed the files, pondered for a moment, and then reopened them to review the strange details he had noticed before.


    Eventually, he sat silently on the sofa with the files, deep in thought...


    It was not beyond his expectations. Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin did not meet after the establishment of Xinjie City, but rather... their acquaintance dated back several years.


    Before Xinjie City became a Planning Area, the Sanctuary needed to sweep clean the various anti-government armed forces, criminal syndicates, and gangs occupying Xinjie City in advance.


    So, they dispatched the then Colonel Ye, now General Ye to station in Xinjie City, clarify the power distribution, and clean out the anti-government armed forces, criminal syndicates, and gangs.


    During this period, the City Hall and the Investigation Bureau both sent people to participate in the operation.


    For example, future Deputy Directors Lai Shun and Yu Zhengyi, or future high-ranking officials such as Shi Youxin and Secretary Bai.


    It was in this bloody purge that Secretary Bai was injured, nearly died, and was ultimately saved by Qiu Tu.


    That led to Qiu Tu later being recruited by Secretary Bai into the Investigation Bureau, being introduced to Yan Chen, and then to sleeping with Qin Shuman among a series of other events.


    Besides these future high-ranking officials of Xinjie City, the Investigation Bureau also brought over forty core members to assess the situation in Xinjie City.


    Among them... was Zheng Tao.


    At that time, Tan Huimin was the only daughter of a small merchant family in Xinjie City, beautiful and well-provided for. Though not extravagantly rich, she was certainly better off than the average household.


    She was somewhat similar to the present-day Song Qing or Su Xiaowan.


    However, although her father was not a criminal, he was reliant on an underground gang.


    This made them fall into a category that could be "cleansed" or spared.


    And Zheng Tao was charged with assessing the underground gang and its surrounding forces.


    It was during this period that Zheng Tao is suspected to have become acquainted with Tan Huimin.


    The files do not clearly state the exact situation at the time, just that after Zheng Tao''s evaluation, 90% of those forces associated with the underground syndicate needed to be purged.


    Tan Huimin''s family was among the remaining 10% that could be preserved.


    What followed was a 15-day-long bloody purge.


    During this time, many things happened. All the anti-government armed forces, criminal gangs, and their surrounding powers were annihilated.


    The old order crumbled, and a new order was under construction. The entire Xinjie City was filled with turmoil and chaos.


    Afterward, everything gradually calmed down. Tan Hui Min and her family successfully survived the major crisis.


    Just when Zheng Tao and Tan Hui Min thought it was all behind them, one day, suddenly, remnants of a gang arrived at Tan Hui Min''s home and carried out a massacre.


    Aside from Tan Hui Min, who happened to be out on a date with Zheng Tao, over ten members of Tan Hui Min''s family were slaughtered, none spared.


    There were no detailed records in the information available about the inner journey of Tan Hui Min and Zheng Tao, nor their reactions.


    It was summarized in a very brief sentence, "Two months later, Zheng Tao brought Tan Hui Min back to the Sanctuary under the guise of being relatives."


    In the Sanctuary, the two registered their marriage, and Tan Hui Min acquired residence status in the Sanctuary as Zheng Tao''s wife.


    Subsequently, Zheng Tao returned to Xinjie City in his capacity as a member of the Investigation Bureau Political Department''s Interrogation Section.


    And Tan Hui Min followed Zheng Tao back to Xinjie City.


    Strangely enough, Zheng Tao didn''t use official channels to bring Tan Hui Min back to Xinjie City; instead, he made her return to Xinjie City in secrecy.


    And using Tan Hui Min''s former identity in Xinjie City, during the census and entry of resident information at City Hall, she was given the identity of a resident in a Planning Area.


    After that, Zheng Tao secured Tan Hui Min''s selection into the Investigation Bureau through his connections and arranged for her to be placed in the Administrative Office.


    There were no further records available after this. It''s presumed that it''s because Tan Hui Min became Zheng Tao''s secretary for such a short period of time, the Security Department had not yet had the chance to update the information.


    However, the information available was already sufficient for Qiu Tu to detect many suspicions.


    The first doubt was... Zheng Tao had registered and married Tan Hui Min in the Sanctuary, yet he didn''t bring his wife back to Xinjie City openly and above board, which was quite suspicious already.


    The second doubt was... after the great purge, Tan Hui Min''s family of over ten met with a tragic massacre. With no remaining family, Tan Hui Min could return to the Sanctuary with Zheng Tao.


    Given what Qiu Tu knew about Zheng Tao, he couldn''t help but suspect there was some inside story.


    As for other details, although Qiu Tu hadn''t spotted any problems for the moment, something still felt odd...


    Especially considering that before Zheng Tao''s promotion, their relationship was average but not hostile; however, after the promotion, Zheng Tao suddenly began to target him as if obsessed.


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but overthink it.


    If Zheng Tao previously sought to steal his credit to show loyalty to Yan Chen,


    now, planting his wife as a spy by his side was definitely crossing the line.


    This was definitely not Yan Chen''s style.


    From what Qiu Tu knew about Yan Chen, he might be treacherous, ruthless, suspicious, and vengeful,


    but... he wouldn''t use such despicable means against an ant like him.


    Yan Chen preferred using a subtle move to guide the situation and create a tsunami to crush his enemies.


    And this method of using one''s wife as a spy and leveraging temptation made Qiu Tu think more and more it resembled....


    ''Larilo!?''


    At the thought of this name, Qiu Tu suddenly snapped awake.


    He felt there might be some plausibility in his analysis. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, Larilo always seemed particularly fond of using the Beauty Trap, espionage, and seduction as tactics.


    Even if they couldn''t obtain information, leading someone to Degeneration seemed to bring her special joy!


    It was like having some strange fetish.


    Now, Zheng Tao willingly placed his wife by his side, setting him up for slander in the Melon Field, and making him develop feelings for Zheng Tao''s wife through daily interaction, ultimately leading to Degeneration.


    It was just too reminiscent of Larilo''s approach!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt a chill down his spine.


    He quickly flipped open the files to take another look.


    Because if Zheng Tao truly was a follower of Larilo, or arranged by Larilo, then it''s highly likely he would have been in contact with Larilo years ago, not just recently.


    And the high-level figure who could help him get promoted and arrange for his wife to be placed in the Investigation Bureau must be the Larilo devotee hidden among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau, and probably also one of the senior officials who went to Xinjie City with Zheng Tao back then!


    ------

 Chapter 274 - 226 A Night with Qin Shuman (10,000 words, please subscribe!)

    ```


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu quickly flipped through the files to the list of those from the Investigation Bureau involved during the great purge incident.


    Deputy Director Lai Shun, Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi, Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin, Administrative Office Director Secretary Bai....


    Both Deputy Directors, both deputy ministers, and deputy division chiefs... all were truly among the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    ''Could it be one of these four?''


    Qiu Tu reviewed the identities and administrative powers of these individuals in his mind.


    Indeed, this list did fit the speculations he had just made.


    All four individuals were influential figures within the Investigation Bureau. Furthermore, all of them could influence decisions regarding the administrative appointments of deputy division chiefs.


    There''s no need to mention Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin. His area of authority was precisely to promote officials.


    And as his direct superior, also in charge of all administrative and management tasks of the Investigation Bureau, Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi, had even more sway over the appointment of a deputy division chief.


    As for Secretary Bai, his authority might not extend to deciding the appointment of a deputy division chief. But... don''t forget who he is. He''s Yan Chen''s secretary.


    Someone like Tao Yaoyao, serving as a confidential secretary, could still stir up trouble in the entirety of Xinjie City by utilizing Commissioner Jiang''s influence.


    As Yan Chen''s chief secretary, Secretary Bai''s influence was even more formidable. Coupled with his high-standing position. Hence, he doesn''t need to explicitly say it was Yan Chen''s directive, just a hint to Shi Youxin.


    Shi Youxin would have no choice but to comply.


    Considering all this, only Deputy Director Lai Shun would be slightly less suspicious.


    After all, he and Yu Zhengyi, as well as Shi Youxin, were considered political adversaries and had no influence over the Organizational Department.


    However, despite being less suspicious, he couldn''t be completely ruled out: after all... don''t forget that the Public Security Bureau is under the action department, which is managed by him.


    Therefore, theoretically, his opinion on this department''s deputy chief, whether it be Organizational Department Head Shi Youxin or Yan Chen, would need to be carefully considered.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu frowned and firmly tapped on Secretary Bai''s name with his hand...


    Although he didn''t want to suspect Old Bai.


    But to be frank, Old Bai''s suspicion was indeed too great.


    Apart from being able to influence Zheng Tao''s position, the Secretariat was also within the administrative purview of Old Bai''s Administrative Office.


    This would make it easier for him to help Zheng Tao conceal Tan Huimin''s identity. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, remembering how Vice President Tian''s mistress was silenced, Secretary Bai was the first to inform Qiu Tu, insinuating that Qiu Tu should flee... (Chapter 61)


    It might be because of the suspicion that when looking at anything there would be doubt, now Qiu Tu somewhat suspected... whether Secretary Bai wanted him to be the scapegoat then.


    After all, the disciple of Larilo was the one who silenced Vice President Tian''s mistress, and if Qiu Tu had run, the murderer of the case would have been directly pinned on his head.


    There would have been no subsequent investigation, nor the series of events that followed...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu felt a chill down his spine for a moment, shuddering...


    At this time, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s mood, Qin Shuman softly "Mmm~" and then slowly opened her eyes.


    Maybe because this hotel is indeed a safe house of the Security Department, Qin Shuman wasn''t very vigilant overall.


    She propped herself up on the bed, looked up at Qiu Tu with her beautiful peach blossom eyes, and said teasingly, "Minister Qiu is really busy with work~~~"


    "Not even forgetting to look over some documents first during a date~~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s familiar teasing, Qiu Tu suddenly felt his mood lighten.


    He smiled and looked at Qin Shuman on the bed, then said, "Well, I didn''t want to wake you up since you were sleeping."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman chuckled, stretched lazily, and said nonchalantly, "Then you miscalculated."


    "Because I didn''t sleep at all."


    Saying this, she pointed to her head and explained, "I was just dealing with some intelligence in the office while waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was somewhat impressed by Qin Shuman''s work intensity and competitive diligence.


    With this woman''s work capacity and diligence, how could his work in the Political Department''s intelligence even compare to hers!


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but tease, "Major Qin, could you leave some leeway for the rest of us."


    "With that intelligence capability and work intensity, how is our Investigation Bureau supposed to do our intelligence work!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman slightly raised her eyebrows and said with a hint of pride, "Actually, it''s quite easy to do."


    ```


    "Beg me, and I might just be willing to share intelligence with you."


    This was indeed one of Qiu Tu''s objectives in meeting Shuman Qin that night, so when Shuman Qin took the initiative to propose it, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up instantly.


    He looked at Shuman Qin, "Are you serious?"


    Shuman Qin smiled, "In principle, there''s no problem. After all... you''re one of our Security Department people."


    "But..." As she spoke, Shuman Qin gave Qiu Tu an insinuating smile, implying, "It still depends on your performance... "


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback at first. Then he remembered how his body had strengthened after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, and he suddenly brimmed with confidence!


    He stood up, undressing as he spoke, "Don''t worry! I''ll make sure you''re satisfied!"


    "Hey? Hey? Wait a minute!" Seeing Qiu Tu like this, Shuman Qin blushed and waved her hands repeatedly, "That''s not what I meant."


    But Qiu Tu... didn''t care whether that was her meaning or not.


    Eager to show off his newfound strength, he quickly finished undressing and pounced on her.


    Shuman Qin turned deep red at Qiu Tu''s eager behavior.


    While hitting Qiu Tu''s shoulder, she said shyly, "You really are a rogue."


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t care about any of that; all he wanted to do was to communicate with Shuman Qin.


    ...


    After a satisfying conversation, Qiu Tu held Shuman Qin, feeling much more relaxed.


    And at that moment, Shuman Qin leaned in Qiu Tu''s arms, her face still red, obviously still immersed in the scene that had just unfolded.


    As Qiu Tu''s hand gently caressed her bare spine, he asked, "Shuman, under what circumstances would you marry someone?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shuman Qin was clearly startled.


    First she looked at Qiu Tu with a complex gaze, then teased, "Why? You want to marry me?"


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu was also taken aback.


    In fact... he had again been pondering the identities of Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin while instilling "diligence" during that diligent moment.


    Unexpectedly, Shuman Qin misunderstood him.


    However, being a man who understood women''s hearts, of course he knew that now was not the time to deny it.


    So, he looked at Shuman Qin with a deep affection, "Yes, can''t I?"


    Shuman Qin chuckled lightly, then clicked her tongue twice, shook her head with a coquettish voice, "You man have a problem~~~"


    "All I wanted was a mutually beneficial arrangement, and here you are, wanting to marry me."


    "In these troubled times, do we really need to be so sentimentally attached?"


    Hearing Shuman Qin''s words, Qiu Tu looked her over twice and then said, "Mutually beneficial...?"


    Qiu Tu recalled a moment, and then said, "But if I remember correctly, it seems like you were very unfamiliar with a certain thing from the start. It looks like you''re not skilled at it."


    "Are you sure it''s mutually beneficial and not that you surrendered yourself to me?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shuman Qin''s face turned slightly red, as she remembered the incident that happened the first time she met Qiu Tu (Chapter 4).


    She intended to retort, but then Qiu Tu seemed to realize something, then suddenly said, "Eh... that being said."


    "Your true self, couldn''t still be...?"


    "Otherwise, it''d be quite a bargain for me, wouldn''t it?"


    Upon hearing this, Shuman Qin quickly covered Qiu Tu''s mouth with her hand, irritated, she grabbed a document from the table, brandishing the sharp corner of the paper at Qiu Tu''s neck, "Say that again!"


    Being cornered by Shuman Qin this way, Qiu Tu felt slippery...


    He wanted to do something, but worried that Shuman Qin might be too tired, so he could only cough and raised his hands in surrender, "My bad, my bad, Major Qin."


    Hearing this, Shuman Qin snorted coldly, then finally threw the document aside and climbed back onto the bed.


    After sitting for a short while, Shuman Qin began to speak slowly, "Qiu Tu... my family is a bit special."


    -------


    30,000 characters for 3 chapters. There will be one more chapter between 23-24 o''clock. Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 275 - 227: Qin Shuman: Lets Work Together (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    "The reason I work so hard is related to this," she said.


    "Although something may have happened between us by a twist of fate. But... once this body decays, it won''t happen again."


    "Please understand."


    Upon hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment.


    He hadn''t expected Qin Shuman to take the matter so seriously.


    The jokes he had just made about Qin Shuman''s main body and marriage were really just going along with the topics she brought up.


    Now it seemed that Qin Shuman''s family might have some issues.


    Qiu Tu recalled every little interaction he had had with Qin Shuman.


    He could be fairly certain that Qin Shuman was probably not like Shen Lingshuang, who came from a distinguished family¡ªif she were, she wouldn''t have been trapped in Yan Chen''s mistress''s body and unable to summon the Security Department to free her.


    So... there must be some other reason, right?


    Just as Qiu Tu was trying to figure it out, Qin Shuman did not continue on this topic.


    She sighed, picked up a piece of clothing from the ground to drape over herself, then picked up several documents from the table. Looking at Qiu Tu, she said seriously, "Alright, we''ve already spent enough time tonight."


    "Let''s talk about intelligence and cooperation first."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu checked the time. Without realizing it, he and Qin Shuman had been playing for an hour and a half, and it was indeed time to work.


    Thinking this, he nodded and took the initiative to tell her everything that had happened to him during this time.


    There wasn''t much Qiu Tu felt the need to hide from Qin Shuman, a woman with whom he had shared life-and-death experiences, apart from the Golden Finger and his transmigration.


    As a result, after hearing all the intelligence Qiu Tu had shared, Qin Shuman''s brows were almost knitted into a "chuan" character.


    She was silent for a long time with a grave expression, then finally asked, "So, what you mean is... you''ve been completely entangled by that Evil God?"


    "And... she has followers within the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and said, "That''s right."


    Hearing this, Qin Shuman gave Qiu Tu a complicated look and then took out another document, handing it to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu accepted the document with a puzzled look, only to find that the information was about the founding of Dongye State and some news about the man behind Jia Shu: Huang Shangzong.


    According to the information.


    Huang Shangzong used Moonlight Lake as a pretext to vigorously promote the establishment of Dongye State.


    Therefore, the process of Dongye State''s establishment would be greatly accelerated. It was expected that Dongye State would be officially founded in as soon as half a month, and at latest in a month and a half.


    The capital of Dongye State was chosen to be Eastern City, not far from Xinjie City.


    Besides the three Deputy Speakers, the members of the new State Council had all been confirmed.


    Chairman Huang Shangzong; the heads of the three major power institutions from the other dozen cities would automatically become council members.


    As for the three Deputy Speakers, Liu Xiongyuan, who played a significant role and had high hopes, was vetoed by Huang Shangzong in one fell swoop.


    It was suspected this was due to Jia Shu being assaulted and killed by Liu Xiongyuan.


    Clearly, the death of Jia Shu was an unresolved issue.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look toward Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman, noticing Qiu Tu''s gaze, casually explained, "Huang Shangzong is a very domineering person."


    "Moreover, because he came from an educational background, he has many disciples and former colleagues, which gives him tremendous influence throughout the Sanctuary."


    "You might think he''s just pushing for the establishment of Dongye State. But in reality, aside from promoting its establishment, he has already begun using the name of the Dongye State Council to meddle in the affairs of various cities." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "For example, various cities'' intelligence agencies have already been instructed to fax their gathered intelligence to the Sanctuary for his Attendees'' Office to study."


    At this point, Qin Shuman paused and said, "Although I guess his main goal is to understand the situation of the major cities faster and more comprehensively."


    "But... he might also be investigating the inside story of Jia Shu''s death."


    "After all... anyone with interest would realize that someone from the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau tipped off Liu Xiongyuan about Jia Shu''s death."


    "In such a case, if he investigates thoroughly, he might end up finding you..."


    "After all, your conflict with Jia Shu was almost public."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment before he slowly said, "When Jia Shu was killed, he was no longer a senior official of the Investigation Bureau, and his name wasn''t even on the Sanctuary''s roster."


    "So, even if they trace it back, he can''t make an issue out of it, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman shook her head. She pointed to the intelligence in Qiu Tu''s hands and said, "You don''t understand Chairman Huang."


    "Even during his time in the Sanctuary, he was known for his straightforward temper and volatility."


    "His way of doing things is also very arrogant and overbearing."


    "To be honest, if he finds out that you were behind Jia Shu''s death, I can imagine him coming to slap you to death."


    At this, Qin Shuman joked, "So... you really did a good job. You managed to deceive the Evil God and anger the Speaker."


    "Otherwise... you might as well run away."


    Qin Shuman said with a smile, "It just so happens that we''ve recently caught another channel to the United Front."


    "Would you like me to provide it to you first? You make contact with them, and after you escape, we''ll take them down."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the countdown in the upper left corner of his field of vision.


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (5 days)]


    [Promise of the Evil God (4 days)]


    [Threat in the Darkness (¡Þ)]


    Qiu Tu really wanted to say... he had also offended the United Front. And not just the United Front, the Heretic Goddess Girl, as well as Huang Shangzong.


    Even in the darkness, it seemed he had also provoked some unknown Existence.


    ''My life is just too tragic! Why am I making enemies everywhere!''


    For a moment, Qiu Tu didn''t know how to describe his own feelings.


    And considering that in 4 days Larilo would be inspecting Moonlight Lake, and in 5 days the United Front would be attacking him...


    Qiu Tu felt tired... Let it all be destroyed.


    Yes, he really wasn''t just tired because of Sage Time!


    At this moment, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s dejected mood, Qin Shuman smiled and then said, "Actually, things are not that difficult."


    "Let''s solve one issue at a time."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at Qin Shuman and ask, "Solve one issue at a time? Do you have an idea about which one?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head. "I have no clue about any of them."


    "But... the most pressing matter before you right now is actually that of Larilo," she said.


    With that, Qin Shuman paused for a moment before continuing, "And this is also the most urgent matter for our Security Department."


    "After all, a cunning and smart Evil God is really too dangerous."


    "Especially when she has learned to infiltrate the human world and has already cultivated followers within the upper ranks of the Investigation Bureau," she added.


    Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu, her face serious as she suggested, "Therefore, I propose that our two departments secretly form an investigative team."


    "To begin the full-scale investigation of Larilo''s upper-level followers and the whereabouts of her avatars."


    Qin Shuman said, "On my side, I can provide a full set of equipment, intelligence support, and even... provide you with some information about Moonlight Lake to help you gain Larilo''s trust."


    "As for your side. I hope you can take action personally."


    "Keep probing Larilo through that coin, or dig deep into the couple Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin."


    "As long as we make a breakthrough in either of these two lines."


    "We may very well find the avatar of Larilo who descended into this world and the high-level follower who worships her."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu opened his mouth and felt like he was somehow obliged to woo by order...


    Whether it was Larilo or Tan Huimin, he would have to deal with one of them in order to continue down either line.


    And compared to Larilo, whose cleverness was not inferior to Qiu Tu''s, obviously... Tan Huimin was a better breakthrough point.


    Thinking like this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but say, "Alright... I''ll give it a try."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s eyes narrowed slightly, looking at Qiu Tu with a hint of danger, then reminded him, "Although... I have no place to say this."


    "But... I still need to remind you."


    "Qiu Tu... don''t fail to see through her and fall into the Beauty Trap instead."


    "Although we have not yet figured out what Larilo''s Cataclysmic ability is."


    "The more desperately an enemy wants something, the more we mustn''t let her have it."


    "She''s been trying every possible means to tempt you into declaring yourself a follower, or she''s been trying every which way to send women to you."


    "It''s very possible... her ability is related to this."


    Upon hearing this, a thoughtful look flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Qin Shuman''s reminder was indeed sensible.


    Larilo first sent Madame Kong to Qiu Tu, closely followed by Tan Huimin.


    There really could be a problem in all of this...


    Could it be... the pen is poisoned?


    -------


    The last chapter was blocked; it should have just been released.


    Still 3 chapters of 10,000 words. The 3rd chapter will be updated between 23:00 and 24:00! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 276 - 228: Larilos Clone Turns Out to Be Her! (10k Words to Ask for Subscription!)

    Of course, this "poison" is not the same "poison" as the other.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t suspected that Larilo would poison the bodies of those women so that once he had relations with them, he would be poisoned himself.


    He guessed that Larilo''s abilities were likely related to having relations.


    Those women were probably implanted with something like a "gu": as long as he had deep interactions with them, there was a high probability that he would be "infected" by those things or be "marked". From then on, he would become a follower of Larilo.


    Otherwise, he really couldn''t explain why Larilo was so persistent in sending women to his side, or in using women to lure him.


    She can''t simply enjoy being a pimp, right?


    Following this thought, Qiu Tu grew more and more convinced it was the case.


    Even... he thought of more.


    With this in mind, he couldn''t help but glance at Qin Shuman, who was getting dressed beside the bed.


    At that moment, seemingly sensing Qiu Tu''s gaze, Qin Shuman finished dressing and lifted her eyes to look at Qiu Tu.


    She brushed her hair and then joked with a smile, "What''s the matter? Minister Qiu, have you really fallen for a beauty trap these days?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu got up with a smile, drew her into his arms, and said, "Of course not."


    "I just think you''re right."


    "Since Larilo keeps sending women my way, she''s most likely plotting something against me."


    Qiu Tu said, "So... I feel that her Cataclysmic ability is highly likely to be related to matters between men and women."


    "Following that, I''ve thought of more."


    Qiu Tu lifted Qin Shuman onto his lap and then began counting on his fingers as he analyzed for her, "You see."


    "Larilo''s ability has something to do with men and women."


    "That''s why Old Master Qin would use one of his personas to go around seducing and womanizing."


    "So, through Jia Wei''s actions, Larilo secretly brought Madame Kong to my side."


    "Therefore, Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin, is highly likely to have issues as well, which is why Zheng Tao was ensnared by Larilo."


    "Calculating this way, have you noticed a problem?"


    Qin Shuman clearly didn''t understand Qiu Tu''s implications. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly, and she gazed at Qiu Tu with a puzzled expression.


    Qiu Tu hinted, "All the women... who have come into contact with Larilo''s followers seem to have some issues."


    Qin Shuman remained somewhat perplexed at first, but the next second, she suddenly grasped the meaning behind Qiu Tu''s words.


    She stood up abruptly, then pointed at herself with a look of surprise and exclaimed, "Are you saying... this body?!"


    Qiu Tu nodded solemnly.


    This was an issue that had just occurred to Qiu Tu.


    If Larilo''s Cataclysm Path was "Reproduction", and her Cataclysmic ability was related to "matters between men and women", and she could plant "Dark Thunder" within women,


    then... why hadn''t she left Dark Thunder inside "Qin Shuman"?


    Why hadn''t Yan Chen, associated with "Qin Shuman", fallen under Larilo''s control?


    Keep in mind, the body of "Qin Shuman" was painstakingly created by Larilo''s follower, Old Master Qin, over many years.


    If Larilo could lay down Dark Thunder in Tan Huimin years ago or lure Zheng Tao, it proves she could have done the same with the body of "Qin Shuman".


    Yet to this day, Yan Chen has been fine.


    There are only three possibilities.


    One, Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic ability level is too high, making Larilo''s ability ineffective on him.


    Two, actually, Larilo''s ability has already taken effect. Except... the person affected isn''t Yan Chen, but Qiu Tu''s predecessor.


    Three, Yan Chen''s identity is too sensitive, and Larilo has other plans for him.


    These three possibilities are not entirely independent or singular, they''re likely a combination of factors at play.


    For example, Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic ability level is too high, Larilo''s ability doesn''t affect him, so she simply settles for the next best thing, targeting Qiu Tu''s predecessor.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Qin Shuman appeared to have her thoughts unlocked as well.


    She stood up from Qiu Tu''s lap and, with a look of excitement, started pacing the room while lost in thought.


    After a moment, she stopped with her back to Qiu Tu, then suddenly turned around to face him and said, "So... this explains why both ''Qin Shuman'' and ''Qiu Tu'' suddenly had their souls wiped clean!"


    "It also explains why Larilo is so familiar with you and has been targeting you."


    Qiu Tu nodded and speculated, "I have a feeling Larilo does have something special for me. She seems to indeed have a particular interest in me."


    "And as for Yan Chen... though I''m not sure what level of Cataclysmic he actually is."


    "But I would guess he is no less than Director Tang."


    Qiu Tu said, "I''ve had a discussion with Director Tang about Yan Chen''s strength."


    "Although she says that Yan Chen''s strength is not as great as hers."


    "But I think that alone indicates that Yan Chen''s strength is noteworthy in her eyes."


    "Meaning... he has likely advanced to a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "In that case, Larilo''s ability probably really can''t affect him, or it doesn''t have as strong an effect on him."


    "So, it''s reasonable that she would instead target ''you'' and ''me'' as the next best thing..."


    "This is probably also one of the reasons you and I possessed this body..."


    Qin Shuman nodded slightly, her eyes revealing deep contemplation.


    Then she asked, "What about the third point you mentioned? What do you think Larilo''s plot is with Yan Chen?"


    At this, Qiu Tu explained, "I don''t know what the specific plot is."


    "But I believe... Old Master Qin didn''t choose his targets randomly."


    While saying this, Qiu Tu got up and walked to the window, then pulled the curtain aside.


    Xinjie City seemed exceptionally peaceful tonight, without wind or rain.


    Moreover, there seemed to be many more lights in the nighttime city, like countless eyes lighting up in the darkness.


    This represented Xinjie City''s ever-increasing stability and prosperity.


    Though Commissioner Jiang''s presence in Xinjie City wasn''t as prominent as the other two giants, nor was his personality as dominant.


    His ability to facilitate infrastructure construction and economic development was nevertheless commendable.


    This could be observed from the day-to-day transformative changes in Xinjie City.


    While pondering this, Qiu Tu opened the window and took out a cigarette to light.


    The night breeze caressed him as he squinted and took a deep drag, then said, "From my contact with Old Master Qin, it''s apparent he''s been completely brainwashed into a devout believer."


    "Xinjie City has been designated as a Planning Area, and with the Qin Family''s influence in Xinjie City, they could have received substantial rewards from any faction, without the need to take sides so early on." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, don''t you find it strange that he reached out to Yan Chen so early and revived Yan Chen''s wife."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was startled and then pointed at her own body in surprise, saying, "What did you say? Do you mean this body uses the genes of Yan Chen''s wife?"


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then said, "Did I not mention that piece of information just now?"


    Qin Shuman shook her head.


    Qiu Tu nonchalantly let out an "Oh" and then, with his hands on the bed''s edge, continued to gaze into the night and said, "Well, now you know."


    "''Qin Shuman''s'' body is genetically derived from Yan Chen. It''s a clone of his wife, specially crafted by Old Master Qin to please Yan Chen."


    After explaining this, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "But don''t you think it''s odd?"


    "The Qin Family spent so many years ''reviving'' Yan Chen''s wife, yet after the establishment of Xinjie City, they didn''t side with Yan Chen."


    A hint of thoughtfulness flashed in Qin Shuman''s eyes.


    Following Qiu Tu''s analysis, she continued to reason and extrapolate, "It is indeed unusual."


    "The Qin Family only fully sided with Yan Chen after you set the trap."


    "Before that, they had not allied with any of the three major forces. It seems they were holding out for a better deal."


    "This indicates they knew their own worth and realized that at this stage, they didn''t need to please Yan Chen."


    Qin Shuman approached Qiu Tu, snatching the cigarette from his mouth.


    As she snuffed it out, she continued her assessment, "As a result, the Qin Family did so much for Yan Chen, only to receive a Deputy Division Chief position in return. It does seem somewhat unreasonable."


    She said, "Previously, this matter didn''t attract much attention because most people were actually unaware of this transaction. And even if they knew, they would assume: The death of Old Master Qin led to the Qin Family losing contact with Yan Chen. That''s why the two sides weren''t close."


    "But¡­ later we found out that Old Master Qin wasn''t dead. He stole the bodies of Qin Heng and Qin Cheng and continues to live in this world."


    "This makes the matter truly worthy of contemplation."


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "Yes. The fact that Old Master Qin isn''t dead brings an interesting twist to the entire event."


    "One, the Qin Family hasn''t broken contact with Yan Chen. Given the high price they paid, they theoretically shouldn''t just let go."


    "Two... and this is most important. To Old Master Qin, Qin Zhengguang, also known as Second Master Qin, is actually not important at all!"


    "He even killed his own elder son, crafted a clone body for himself, and achieved immortality. Why... would he scheme so much and pay such a price for a second son?"


    Qin Shuman nodded at his words and then agreed, "Yes. The fact that Old Master Qin is still alive makes the whole matter unreasonable."


    "So, the most reasonable hypothesis is that: Old Master Qin acquiring a position for Qin Zhengguang was a sham, and the truth was to get close to Yan Chen to help him revive his wife."


    At this point, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but look towards Qiu Tu.


    In the night, Qiu Tu was only wearing the black jacket of the Political Department, his chest exposed, and without the usual oppressive aura of a Political Department Investigator, he had an added air of a carefree wanderer.


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s handsome profile, Qin Shuman was also reminiscing about Qiu Tu''s entire deduction.


    The entire deduction seemed simple, yet it required a revolutionary way of thinking to overturn all previous impressions and conclusions, and to gather all the fragmented clues together for a new deduction.


    And this demanded an exceptionally strong logical acumen and the ability to deduce from the details and clues.


    She had already noticed that Qiu Tu was very different. Now, she found her impression of Qiu Tu refreshed once again...


    ''Perhaps... he really could become a great man to be looked up to.''


    Thinking this, Qin Shuman involuntarily thought of her own family, her hand tightening slightly.


    Possibly because he was looking at the night scenery, Qiu Tu hadn''t noticed Qin Shuman''s unusual expression. He was still reveling in the thrill of uncovering the whole truth of the event.


    He whispered, "Shuman, do you know what conclusion I came to after deducing this result?"


    Qin Shuman revived her attentiveness at his words.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "What conclusion?"


    Qiu Tu turned to her and said, "The conclusion is... I might have guessed who Larilo''s possession has descended into."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, who had been somewhat distracted, was startled, her body trembling involuntarily.


    She quickly raised her head to look at Qiu Tu, "Who is it?"


    Qiu Tu''s lips curved into a smile, then he said with a chuckle, "Yanyan."


    Having never previously included that name in her list of suspects, Qin Shuman frowned slightly, her mind racing back in recollection.


    "Yanyan... Yanyan..."


    After a moment, Qin Shuman had a sudden realization, "You mean Yan Chen''s daughter Yanyan?"


    She blurted out a wealth of information, "Yanyan, real name Yan Yan. 17 years old. The only daughter of Yan Chen. Grew up in the Sanctuary, loves flowers and plants."


    "Has a soft and kind disposition. She once attended the Third Sanctuary [Agricultural University] for further studies. Specializes in plant cultivation and hybridization."


    Having recalled the information, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but ask curiously, "But... how did you deduce that she is Larilo''s possession?"


    -------


    A 10,000-word chapter for you. I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!


    Continuing with a 10k daily word count tomorrow!

 Chapter 277 - 229: The Second Evil God (10,000 characters plea for subscription!)

    In the night, light and shadows intertwined.


    The face of Qin Shuman, derived from Yan Chen''s wife, also seemed exceptionally charming.


    Qiu Tu looked at the beautiful, glamorous face and, while envying Yan Chen''s good fortune, also conjured up the image of Yanyan''s angelic, pure face.


    In fact, Qiu Tu had started to doubt Yanyan not today.


    As early as his second encounter with Yanyan, he had pondered whether she could be a part of the Heretic Goddess Girl Larilo.


    The reason was simple: what had Larilo come to this world for?


    To infiltrate this world, to spread her own faith.


    And what was Larilo''s method of coming to this world?


    Incarnation through a clone.


    That is to say, even if Larilo''s avatar in this world was destroyed, it would actually have little impact on her.


    Therefore, she definitely would not choose her avatar in a "covert" manner.


    To put it bluntly, in order to fulfill her purpose of infiltrating this world, she wouldn''t choose a random passerby.


    ¡ªBecause a "random passerby" has too little influence on this world.


    Thus, she would certainly pick someone with a high status, as only through such a person could she influence more people and more easily achieve her goals.


    During this time, although many people came and went in Xinjie City, the highest status girls were only a few, like Yanyan, Shen Lingshuang, and others.


    Although Shen Lingshuang''s status was high, her influence was mainly in the Third Sanctuary and couldn''t be "monetized" in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    Moreover, Old Master Qin had likely not had the opportunity to contact her a few years ago, so of course, Yanyan was the person Qiu Tu most suspected.


    Later, when he knew that among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau there were followers of Larilo, his suspicion of Yanyan grew even stronger.


    And all of this, until just now, had reached a crescendo.


    That is...if Old Master Qin was not collaborating with Yan Chen for the future of his own son, then why would he create a clone of Yan Chen''s wife?


    Moreover, after creating the cloned female body, Larilo did not control Yan Chen.


    What then was her true purpose?


    It couldn''t possibly be to perform charity or to sing praises to love, right?


    So, after thinking it over, a bold idea arose in Qiu Tu''s mind: could it be that Old Master Qin not only cloned Yan Chen''s wife but also... cloned Yan Chen''s daughter?


    Was the reason Old Master Qin helped Yan Chen revive his wife to get close to Yanyan, to obtain Yanyan''s genetic material?


    The reason for choosing Yanyan as a target, Qiu Tu thought, was not hard to guess.


    Because the location where Larilo descended was in Xinjie City, and at that time, Yan Chen had already been confirmed as the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City.


    As one of Xinjie City''s future Three Giants, Yan Chen''s future status was bound to be at the pinnacle of Xinjie City.


    Therefore, descending as his daughter would certainly be worthwhile.


    Secondly... if Qiu Tu was not mistaken, that betrayer among the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau, likely similar to Zheng Tao, was seduced and degenerated by Larilo during the Great Purge.


    And he was Yan Chen''s confidant.


    Therefore, with his support, Larilo''s undercover work would proceed more smoothly, and she would be able to exert her influence more easily.


    It was precisely because he grasped these points tonight that Qiu Tu was almost 100% certain that the cloned female body which Larilo descended into was Yanyan.


    With this realization, the image of Secretary Bai once again emerged in Qiu Tu''s mind...


    Because, if Yanyan really was an avatar of Larilo, then Secretary Bai''s suspicion would rise sharply again.


    After all... Secretary Bai was not only the person most likely to cooperate with Yanyan to exert Yan Chen''s influence.


    Moreover... more importantly, if Qiu Tu remembered correctly, the day Yanyan came from the Sanctuary to Xinjie City, it was Secretary Bai who received her. (Chapter 124)


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the night in the study when Secretary Bai, soaked on one side, stood under an umbrella.


    His heart began to sink.


    ''Old Bai... is it really you?''


    After reasoning through all the grounds for suspecting Yanyan to be an avatar of Larilo in his mind, Qiu Tu explained them one by one to Qin Shuman at a deliberate pace.


    After listening to Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman''s brows furrowed slightly, and after pondering for a moment, she nodded.


    "It makes sense..." she remarked, "No wonder our Security Department has not found any traces of anomaly despite casting a wide net in various parts of Xinjie City."


    "It turns out that Larilo was hidden in Yan Chen''s garden villa."


    Qin Shuman brushed the stray hair at the side of her face behind her ear, "That place is indeed the safest in Xinjie City."


    "After all, without a high-level search warrant issued by the Sanctuary... no, even with a high-level search warrant, we are not authorized to search the villa of the Investigation Bureau Chief."


    "To search a villa of the Investigation Bureau Chief, only a Disciplinary Committee dispatched by the Sanctuary can manage it."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman seemed to recall something.


    She moved her slender legs and walked to the bedside, took some documents from a bedside cabinet, and handed them to Qiu Tu.


    Then she said, "These are all interrogation records of Old Master Qin."


    "They also involve information about Larilo."


    "Under normal circumstances, this document couldn''t be provided to you in written form."


    "But... who made you get promoted and become the Deputy Minister of the Political Department."


    "With your authority, you already have access to this information."


    "So, I just brought them directly to you."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu took the documents and skimmed through them at a glance.


    The information revealed by Old Master Qin was actually not much. After all... Larilo had installed a "trigger word" device on him, and when he spoke of key intelligence, Larilo blew up his head.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu had already collected a lot of information about Larilo during this period. Hence, there was not much valuable content in the whole document.


    Only two pieces of intelligence caught Qiu Tu''s attention.


    The first was that Old Master Qin said Larilo had actually begun to strategize in the Cataclysm area near Xinjie City many years ago.


    He was neither Larilo''s first nor last follower.


    In the cities near Xinjie City, Larilo actually also has widespread influence.


    After all, reproduction is the instinct of all living things, and men are particularly avid supporters of certain activities.


    Larilo not only perfectly satisfies men''s desires, but also trains women, so many powerful and influential figures actually worship Larilo in secret.


    The second piece of intelligence is that, apart from Larilo, other Heretic Gods are marking their territories around Xinjie City, and this has been happening in the past two years.


    The reason is that after Old Master Qin established Xinjie City, he once went to Eastern City nearby to conduct business.


    At that time, Old Master Qin had tried summoning Larilo.


    After Larilo appeared, she was initially indifferent.


    But when she realized that Old Master Qin was summoning her in Eastern City, her expression immediately turned solemn, and without saying much, she returned to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Old Master Qin didn''t understand at first. It was Larilo who later explained to him that a very powerful Heretic God, Zhao Ji, was entrenched near Eastern City.


    And Heretic Gods do not coexist peacefully with one another.


    Initially, they would fight and devour each other. Later, realizing that this approach often resulted in mutual heavy losses, they started to mark their own territories like wild beasts.


    Among these, Xinjie City is Larilo''s territory.


    As for Eastern City and several other surrounding cities, they fall under Zhao Ji''s territory.


    After initially descending forcefully and clashing directly with the human world¡ªonly to gain little to no benefit¡ªthe Heretic Gods became more cunning.


    They began sifting through believers using faith, bolstering their own strength, installing their spies amongst the three major power structures, and gradually infiltrating the human world.


    They aim to ascend their spies to high positions, or spread them through the mid-ranks, in order to crack open the human world and enable their true descent...


    This is also a significant reason why the three major institutions are wary of each other, planting spies, and investigating one another.


    Having finished reading the material from Old Master Qin, Qiu Tu''s gaze was profound.


    He had found it strange before: the world is already chaotic, and there''s also a major external enemy.


    Why do the three major power institutions still maintain their rivalries?


    Although part of the reason is that the powers within the Eighth Sanctuary had not fully integrated, and were still in the process of harmonizing.


    But such aggressive efforts at implanting agents within other forces still seemed a bit excessive to him.


    Now he finally understood.


    It is actually a special kind of mutual Supervisory system compelled by external pressure: internal monitoring is often only top-down, while peer monitoring can easily become a mere formality.


    So, simply turn internal monitoring into "external monitoring." Use spies from other organizations to monitor for Degeneration in middle and upper management.


    If there is any Degeneration in middle and upper management, it can be eliminated promptly.


    If there isn''t any Degeneration, it can also promote the improvement of secrecy and counter-espionage abilities among these middle and upper ranks.


    To prevent future infiltration or secret exposure to the Heretic Gods.


    ''Indeed... every unique system bears the imprint of the unique era in which it exists.''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu gradually withdrew his thoughts and then handed the documents back to Qin Shuman. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qin Shuman took the materials, then casually gathered up the other documents as well, and placed them in a silver brazier.


    Then she stretched out her hand toward Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu tacitly took a match from his pocket and placed it in her hand.


    Qin Shuman took the matchbox, pulled out a match.


    "Scratch!"


    A match flared inside the room, Qin Shuman let go, and the burning match, sprinkling sparks, then fell into the silver basin.


    "Woosh!" Flames leaped up, and the materials began to burn furiously in the flames.


    With the blaze as a backdrop, Qin Shuman stretched languidly, displaying her flawless curves and slender waist.


    Then, looking at Qiu Tu, she giggled and said, "Our Security Department isn''t quite convenient for investigating Director Yan''s family or Secretary Bai."


    "So... the next steps will have to trouble Minister Qiu~~"


    Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Others at least promise something tempting. You can''t even bother with that, can you?"


    Qin Shuman covered her mouth and chuckled, then said, "Don''t worry. I will arrange an action team equipped with the necessary gear to protect you at all times and to follow your commands."


    "They should find you to report tomorrow morning."


    "Should any emergency arise, or should you encounter danger, you can contact them immediately."


    Towards the end, Qin Shuman approached with a mischievous smile, adjusted the uniform draped over Qiu Tu with her hand, and giggled, "Don''t worry~~ After the case is cracked, I''ll definitely commend you for your work."


    Qiu Tu had known Qin Shuman for more than a day.


    If Qin Shuman was laughing so heartily, she was mostly acting. So, he unceremoniously put his arms around her, then leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Do I care about your commendations? How about... a different kind of repayment?"


    "I''m quite interested in your true form..."


    This time, Qin Shuman didn''t blush. Perhaps because she had "put on her mask," she smiled and winked at Qiu Tu, "That depends on your efforts, Minister Qiu~~~"


    The quiver in her voice made Qiu Tu''s body feel a bit weak.


    His hand involuntarily moved to slide down her back.


    But just then, Qin Shuman reached behind and caught his hand.


    "Minister Qiu~~ It''s quite late. You should head back."


    Qin Shuman''s eyes were bright as she looked at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu had the intention to let things escalate, but remembering Qin Shuman''s recent fatigue and her direct way of showing him out, he ultimately suppressed what he wanted to say.


    "Alright then. I''ll be going."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu paused, then asked one final question.


    "By the way, if I want to help you, to what extent should I go?"


    If someone else heard this, they''d probably be baffled, not understanding what Qiu Tu meant by this question.


    ------

 Chapter 278 - 230: Attack of Huang Shangzong (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    But for Qin Shuman, her family was always a thorn in her side.


    So when Qiu Tu just asked, she understood what he meant.


    Her heart couldn''t help but tremble. Then she looked at Qiu Tu, smiling and said, "At least not until you become the Bureau Chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu looked deeply into Qin Shuman''s eyes, then nodded, "Don''t worry, that day will come."


    Qin Shuman was stunned for a moment, her face breaking into a brilliant smile¡ªunlike the "masked" fake smile from before, this was a genuine smile from the bottom of her heart.


    After finishing the last question, Qiu Tu didn''t continue to cheekily stay on.


    He put on his clothes, then confirmed the next steps of their plan with Qin Shuman before preparing to leave the room.


    But as his hand was about to touch the doorknob, he suddenly stopped.


    He turned around and asked, "Right, one more question. Do you have Secretary Bai''s file? Is he a Second-Order Cataclysmic or a Third Order Cataclysmic?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman hesitated for a moment before answering, "He''s a First-Order Catastropher."


    Qiu Tu was surprised for a moment but then thought that positions within the Sanctuary weren''t necessarily linked to strength, and found it reasonable that Secretary Bai was a First-Order Catastropher.


    So he nodded and turned the doorknob.


    As the door opened, Qiu Tu stopped again.


    Qin Shuman was amused by Qiu Tu''s reluctance to leave and laughed coyly as she leaned on the table inside the room, "Minister Qiu, it seems you can''t bear to leave Shuman~~~"


    "Ha-ha," Qiu Tu laughed twice at her words.


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out the "Nightmare Crystal Vial."


    Then he opened the lid, quickly walked over to Qin Shuman, and handed it to her.


    Qin Shuman took the somewhat familiar vial, glanced at Qiu Tu with some confusion, and said, "What''s this.....?"


    "Something tasty," Qiu Tu replied.


    Rolling her eyes at Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman said with irritation, "That''s what you said about that white stuff you had me swallow just now."


    Despite her teasing, Qin Shuman still took the Nightmare Crystal Vial and drank it all in one gulp.


    As soon as the potion was down her throat, Qin Shuman immediately felt a clarity in her soul, the fatigue of the past few days swept away, and her spiritual power seemed to be nourished, replenished with energy.


    ''Is this a special kind of energy-replenishing Cataclysmic Potion?'' she thought.


    Thinking that, Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu with tender eyes, handed back the empty vial while softly saying, "Thank you."


    Qiu Tu took the crystal bottle, smiled and waved his hand, then left a message, "Take care of yourself, don''t overdo it. I would feel distressed." With that, he turned and left without looking back...


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Qin Shuman''s gaze was distant.


    ''If only it were him.''


    ''Sigh... It''s a shame, my family probably wouldn''t agree.''


    After spacing out for a while, Qin Shuman slowly came back to her senses, her eyes once again filled with determination and passion...


    ''Keep working hard!''


    ...


    After descending the stairs and getting into the car, Qiu Tu thought for a moment and roughly set the plan for the next few days.


    He would first return to his new home tonight to see Shen Lingshuang and spend time with her. Also, to tally up the recent gains.


    Tomorrow, he planned to continue training Tan Huimin, using her to investigate potential traitors in the higher echelons of the Investigation Bureau.


    After that, he intended to reach out to Yanyan and test this avatar of the Evil God.


    And finally, the most important, he planned to arrange a meeting with Secretary Bai to determine whether he truly was an Evil God Cultist.


    To be honest, although his rationality told him that Secretary Bai had too many red flags to not be an Evil God Cultist,


    But... his instincts still didn''t believe it.


    This was not just because of Secretary Bai''s character, but also because... Qiu Tu''s several encounters with Larilo made him realize that this Heretic Goddess Girl was no simple individual.


    She was just as cunning and calculating as himself (not really)... with a talent for strategic planning and setting traps just like him.


    In fact, Qiu Tu really thought there were too many doubts regarding Secretary Bai, so much so that it was almost enough to write his name directly into the traitor list.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu suspected... could this possibly be framing by Larilo?


    So, he still wanted to give Secretary Bai a chance to have a proper chat...


    But these were all things for tomorrow. Now,


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu drove towards his new home on Longshan Road.


    As the most top-tier local wealthy district in Xinjie City, the security measures of Longshan Road were always formidable.


    Indeed, just when approaching the intersection near Longshan Road, a squad of private soldiers armed with rifles stopped Qiu Tu.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu''s black uniform and the three stripes and three stars on his epaulets, the soldiers instantly adopted a more solemn demeanor.


    The leading soldier, not daring to be negligent, hastily saluted Qiu Tu and respectfully said, "Good day, Officer. May I ask which villa you wish to visit?"


    Qiu Tu, already familiar with the rules of Longshan Road, accordingly raised his hand and took out a purple residence card, showing it to the other party.


    The soldier was taken aback as he saw it.


    Then, after taking the purple card and inspecting it carefully, he spoke to Qiu Tu, "Officer, I apologize for the inconvenience. Please wait a moment."


    After speaking, he took out a communicator and began to contact his superior.


    Qiu Tu neither urged him on nor showed any irritation. The stricter and more meticulous the security of Longshan Road was, the safer he and Shen Lingshuang would be.


    After a short while, the soldier respectfully returned the card to Qiu Tu and said, "Minister Qiu, I am sorry for the delay."


    "Please enter."


    After speaking, he stepped aside, made a few hand gestures.


    Immediately, the checkpoint in the middle of the road lifted, allowing passage. The soldiers flanking the road saluted, watching as Qiu Tu departed.


    From the strict security measures and the emotional value it provided, Qiu Tu felt that the villa was worth the purchase.


    And when he contrasted it with the slum he had lived in for two months after his arrival...


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel contemplative: Indeed, no matter which world or era, the wealthy never treat themselves poorly.


    And so, Qiu Tu continued driving forward. He passed through three checkpoints before entering the villa area of Longshan Road.


    Following the address Lin Zuo gave him the previous day, Qiu Tu quickly found the villa prepared for him by the Security Department.


    After personally experiencing the outstanding security of Longshan Road, Qiu Tu finally felt at ease.


    He thought that the crisis of "Revenge of the Linked Formation", which was due in five days, should not be much of a problem.


    As he thought this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at the countdown hourglass in the upper left of his vision.


    Just when he looked at those hourglasses, suddenly, several lines of prompts popped up in front of him.


    "Crisis ''Threat in the Darkness'' has changed."


    "Your influential actions in the Jia Shu incident have not escaped the notice of Huang Shangzong''s legal eye."


    "After analysis, he has narrowed the suspects down to you. Hence, he has sent his Advisor Wu Zhi from his attendant''s chamber to secretly arrive in Xinjie City."


    "And due to your recent meteoric rise and actions, a certain member of the City Hall has also been preparing to deal with you."


    "The two hit it off. A huge conspiracy is about to descend upon you."


    "You have only one day to prepare, so please be sure to get ready for this conspiracy."


    Accompanying the prompt in front of him, the original ¡Þ symbol slowly transformed into 32 hours.


    Looking at the prompts before him, Qiu Tu was silent for a moment. Then, he suddenly laughed.


    Indeed, he thought, the world doesn''t only have one smart person. He is smart, Huang Shangzong is smart, Qin Shuman is smart as well.


    Because Qin Shuman indeed guessed correctly. Huang Shangzong does not need reasons or evidence; if he suspects someone, with his status, he can take action directly against that person without concern for the consequences.


    The only thing different from the past is this: the Qiu Tu from before was just an ordinary person, someone who could easily be killed by anyone.


    But the current Qiu Tu is now the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, and he also has Sanctuary status. So even someone with Huang Shangzong''s stature has to resort to scheming against him, rather than simply crushing him outright!


    But... when it comes to conspiracies, Qiu Tu has never been afraid!


    What he loves the most are conspiracies!


    So, Qiu Tu temporarily pushed the matter to the back of his mind, planning to give it some serious thought tomorrow.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu parked the car, took out his keys, and opened the gate.


    He stepped across the lawn and entered the villa''s outer hall.


    Just as he entered the outer hall, Qiu Tu''s ears suddenly caught a series of fierce barks, "Woof woof woof!"


    Qiu Tu jumped in surprise, then noticed a small white dog darting out from under the sofa, charging towards him.


    Not to mention Qiu Tu, now a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, even if he were a First-Order Catastropher, dealing with such a small dog would be effortless.


    So, he bent down, reached out, and plucked the small white dog by the neck easily.


    While holding the small white dog on one side, Qiu Tu turned on the light with the other and curiously asked, "Where did you come from, little dog?"


    Just as Qiu Tu spoke.


    Suddenly, the small white dog''s head inflated like a balloon swelling up drastically, ballooning from the size of a fist to that of a yoga ball.


    Immediately after, the small white dog fiercely opened its mouth, snapping at Qiu Tu''s head!


    ----


    10,000-word plea for Monthly Tickets, ha!

 Chapter 279 - 231 Shen Lingshuang: I Miss You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Damn, what the hell is this!"


    Qiu Tu was truly startled this time.


    After all, whose pet dog''s head suddenly gets bigger?


    So he reached out and flung his hand, sending the little white dog flying out.


    Just at that moment, a surprised cry came from upstairs, "Xiao Bai! Don''t hurt Qiu... Qiu Tu, don''t hurt Xiao Bai!" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Xiao Bai?'' Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s calling, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    He wanted to retract his movement, but his "move" was already made and couldn''t be stopped, so he could only slightly lessen his strength and adjust the direction, throwing the little white dog onto the sofa.


    But let''s not forget, Qiu Tu is a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. So even though he held back his strength,


    the little white dog still smashed into the sofa like a cannonball!


    Fortunately, the sofa was somewhat elastic, so after the little white dog deeply crashed into it, it immediately bounced back out.


    It probably realized that Qiu Tu was not to be trifled with, so this time it didn''t attack Qiu Tu again, but instead ran to Shen Lingshuang with its tail between its legs, whimpering.


    Meanwhile, Shen Lingshuang, dressed in a pink nightgown and pink slippers, also scampered downstairs with a "tap tap tap."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang, the little white dog whined and leaped up, lunging towards her, as if to tell her its grievances.


    But Shen Lingshuang, as if she didn''t see it, passed by it without hesitation, and then... launched herself into Qiu Tu''s arms!


    The little white dog in midair''s eyes widened: Woof?


    And then... it plunged onto the floor.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu reached out to catch Shen Lingshuang''s leap, holding her small, soft body.


    Supporting Shen Lingshuang''s pert little behind, Qiu Tu lifted her up with a smile, then asked, "When did you get a dog?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang suddenly realized she had forgotten her dog.


    She hastily looked back and saw that the little white dog had already fallen to the floor.


    She exclaimed, "Aiya, are you okay, Xiao Bai?"


    The little white dog seemed to really understand human nature, as it rolled its eyes at Shen Lingshuang and then burrowed under the sofa on its paws, ignoring the two of them.


    Seeing this, Shen Lingshuang chuckled and turned her head, wrapping her legs around Qiu Tu''s waist and her hands around his neck, then with a laugh, she introduced, "That''s Xiao Bai. The little white dog I mentioned to you!"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu hesitated, then belatedly recalled that Shen Lingshuang had told him before, in order to test the potion''s effect, she had taken in a white stray dog for experiments.


    As a result, one moment she turned the stray dog to stone, another she made parts of its body grow big, and still, another got it extremely excited.


    Looks like this must be the one.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "Why is its head still getting bigger now?"


    At his words, Shen Lingshuang, laying on top of Qiu Tu, said with a bit of embarrassment, "I''m not sure..."


    "I recently concocted two potions, one is ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion,'' and the other is ''Transformation Potion.''


    "I''ve saved the ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion'' for you. I tried feeding some ''Transformation Potion'' to it, and it didn''t have any effect. But... it seems to have made all of its previous potion effects permanent."


    Shen Lingshuang said, "Now Xiao Bai can turn into a small rock, or suddenly grow its head. Pretty impressive, huh!"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s explanation, Qiu Tu: ...


    She truly is the Devil Potion Master.


    Xiao Bai, following Shen Lingshuang, must''ve either burned incense in its past life or desecrated someone''s grave...


    After all, although it now lives in a villa, no longer worrying about food or drink, and no longer needing to fear being captured and eaten by common folk in turbulent times, it seems... it also has to endure potions that it shouldn''t have to at its age.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was thinking this, Shen Lingshuang, as if she had sniffed something, suddenly started nosing around Qiu Tu''s neck and body like a little dog.


    After a moment, she looked at Qiu Tu with suspicion and asked, "Which woman did you go fooling around with tonight?"


    "Why do you smell so nice?"


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu hesitantly lifted his arm and sniffed: no scent whatsoever.


    He asked in surprise, "Really? I don''t smell anything."


    Without waiting for Shen Lingshuang to continue her questioning or argue, he simply said, "Nah. Nobody."


    "I went to meet a major from the Security Department tonight."


    "We discussed some in-depth cooperation."


    "Maybe because we were talking close together,"


    "so I got the scent of her perfume on me, I guess."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang gave him a doubtful look, "Really?"


    Raising his hand as if to swear, Qiu Tu said, "Of course it''s true. If I don''t go tonight to discuss a collaboration and talk about intelligence with the female major from the Security Department, I''ll... I''ll..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s eyes shifted, and then he looked at Xiao Bai, who was burrowed under the sofa, saying, "I''ll turn into Xiao Bai!"


    Not sure if it was because he heard his name or he understood Qiu Tu''s words, Xiao Bai "Woof... Wang?" poked his head out from under the sofa and looked at Qiu Tu.


    Meanwhile, having heard Qiu Tu''s oath, Shen Lingshuang actually believed him. She happily jumped down from Qiu Tu and said with an adorable smile, "Alright, then I believe you."


    After she spoke, her watery, almond-shaped eyes looked at Qiu Tu, and she considerately asked, "Have you eaten yet? Should I go downstairs and make something for you to eat?"


    The young girl clearly didn''t understand the innuendo behind Qiu Tu''s phrase from his past life, so she asked innocently.


    But Qiu Tu''s thoughts unavoidably drifted, and his gaze followed down from Shen Lingshuang''s slightly budding chest, over her flat belly, slender waist, and finally rested below.


    The next second, he withdrew his gaze and coughed, "Forget it, you''re too young."


    "Wait until next year."


    Shen Lingshuang cocked her head, "???"


    Her large eyes showed clear confusion...


    Preparing a simple meal of two bowls of noodles with a couple of eggs added, Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang each held a bowl and started eating at the dining table.


    During the meal, though Shen Lingshuang''s head was buried in her bowl, her wide eyes never left Qiu Tu.


    As a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu now had incredibly sharp senses, so he was acutely aware of Shen Lingshuang''s gaze.


    He asked with a smile, "What''s up? Why are you staring at me the whole time?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang giggled and then flashed her cute dimples, "Nothing. Just... haven''t seen you in a while. I missed you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu tapped her on the head and said with a smile, "Nonsense. We saw each other a few days ago."


    "Besides, I came back tonight, didn''t I?"


    Shen Lingshuang pouted, "You don''t understand. This is called ''one day apart feels like three autumns!''"


    At that, Qiu Tu smiled and gently patted Shen Lingshuang''s head.


    Somehow, the once haughty female prisoner had become the closest person to him in this world.


    Not only were they living together, but her heart was also with him here.


    Thinking back to their first encounter with this little masochist, the little haughty girl, and then recalling the time they spent relying on each other, with her waiting for him like a little housewife every day, Qiu Tu''s eyes softened a lot.


    He gently wrapped his arms around Shen Lingshuang and asked softly, "How do you like our new home?"


    As expected, when Qiu Tu wasn''t the topic, Shen Lingshuang''s proud character came right back. She tilted her head up slightly and said with a haughty air, "It''s... average."


    She said, "Well, it''s a bit better than Old Alley Street."


    She stretched out her slender index finger and thumb, bringing them so close together that there was barely any gap.


    "Just a tiny bit better..."


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang''s adorable manner, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but chuckle.


    He nodded with a smile and teased her, "Alright, alright. Then... how about you move back to Old Alley Street?"


    Upon hearing this, Shen Lingshuang quickly crossed her arms in front of her chest, her face earnest as she said, "There''s no need to trouble Section Chief Lin and the others again."


    "They have it tough enough."


    "Hahaha," laughed Qiu Tu, "Then you''re quite considerate."


    "That I am~~" Shen Lingshuang tilted her head proudly, showing off her two little canine teeth in a grin of self-satisfaction.


    Before long, both had finished their noodles and were leaning back in their chairs to digest.


    As if struck by a sudden thought, Shen Lingshuang''s eyes sparkled, and she said, "Qiu Tu, wait a second! I''ve made something cool for you the last couple of days!"


    This young girl was also quite impulsive. Without waiting for Qiu Tu''s reaction, she ran up the stairs with quick, light steps.


    While heading upstairs, she didn''t forget to call for Xiao Bai, "Xiao Bai! Help me get something!"


    Upon hearing this, Xiao Bai also followed Shen Lingshuang upstairs with a "Woof, woof."


    Watching the girl''s youthful figure retreating, Qiu Tu''s eyes twinkled with amusement. He knew she must have crafted a new potion or Cataclysmic prop and wanted to show it off to him.


    This made him involuntarily think about his own gains from the past few days...


    -------


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters haha. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Continuing with 10,000 words a day tomorrow!

 Chapter 280 - 232 Inventory of Recent Acquisitions (10,000 Words Seeking Subscriptions!)

    Qiu Tu last took stock of his gains before the fierce battle with Jia Shu.


    Since that day, more than a week had passed.


    In these seven or eight days, the "cooldown" period for the Salvage Game of several of Qiu Tu''s subordinates with Loyalty over 90 had ended.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu happily used them for salvaging.


    However, it was unclear whether the second salvage was less effective, or if it was because... all the treasures Qiu Tu had previously salvaged came from Jia Shu, Jia Wei, and others, and now that they were finished, there were fewer Cataclysmic treasures in Xinjie City.


    Anyway, out of the five chances to salvage, Qiu Tu succeeded only three times.


    Luckily, the results of the three salvages were good: he obtained two Cataclysmic treasures and one bottle of Cataclysmic Potion.


    Both Cataclysmic treasures related to defense.


    One was the "Trigger Paper Figure" lent to Qiu Tu by Tang Feifei, which Qiu Tu had used.


    This Cataclysmic treasure would automatically trigger and form a defensive layer on the surface of the user''s body when they were under attack.


    The defensive layer could withstand attacks from large-caliber firearms and last for over 30 seconds.


    It''s a very conventional type of Defensive Relic, produced by the Sanctuary and awarded to mid and high-level officials in the Planning Area as a protection artifact.


    Furthermore, now that Qiu Tu had become a vice minister, the Investigation Bureau would theoretically issue him one too.


    So, Qiu Tu was thinking about giving the one he had salvaged to Shen Lingshuang.


    After all, compared to the fully armed women around Qiu Tu, who were even safer than him, Shen Lingshuang was the poorest and weakest among them.


    Qiu Tu''s recent Crisis Warning included [Revenge of the United Front]. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the description of this crisis, the United Front would not only attack him but also target his family. So Qiu Tu didn''t want to wait for tragedy to occur before regretting...


    Of course, Qiu Tu''s willingness to part with such an important defense-related Cataclysmic treasure to give to Shen Lingshuang had another important reason.


    That was... the second Cataclysmic treasure he had salvaged: the Gold-Addicted Wallet.


    "Cataclysmic Treasure: Gold-Addicted Wallet"


    "Treasure Introduction: A Cataclysmic treasure made of unidentified materials. As long as enough gold is placed inside, it will automatically trigger to defend when you''re attacked."


    "Theoretically, as long as you have enough gold, it can resist any damage. In practice, it can only withstand attacks up to light artillery."


    "Note: The item can be used multiple times with no cooldown period. However, make sure to deposit enough gold. If you encounter an attack after the gold is depleted, it will self-destruct."


    Upon first receiving this Cataclysmic treasure, Qiu Tu was astounded.


    This treasure was clearly not a standard defense treasure like the "Trigger Paper Figure"; it was a specially made Cataclysmic treasure.


    Not only was its defense much stronger, but it could also be used an infinite number of times¡ªprovided there was enough money.


    So, after getting the treasure, Qiu Tu immediately filled it with several Little Goldfish he carried on him.


    Afterward, he tested the effect of the treasure: he took out a metal dagger issued by the Investigation Bureau and made a tentative cut on his wrist.


    To Qiu Tu''s surprise, the moment the blade broke the skin, a thin layer of gold light suddenly emerged from inside his wrist and gently blocked the blade.


    Qiu Tu tried to continue applying significant force, trying to push the blade down, but no matter how hard he tried, the thin gold light could not be penetrated.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu put down the knife and opened the Gold-Addicted Wallet to check.


    About one-tenth of a Little Goldfish was gone.


    This consumption wasn''t small, but... it was within an acceptable range for Qiu Tu.


    After all, money can be earned again, but one only has one life.


    The greatest tragedy in life is: the person is gone, but the money is still there!


    And it was precisely because he had this defense treasure, far superior to the "Trigger Paper Figure", that Qiu Tu was willing to give the life-saving Cataclysmic treasure to Shen Lingshuang.


    After all... such defense treasures are not in conflict with each other; the more you have, the better, stacking endlessly, no one complains about living too long.


    However, besides these two relatively normal Cataclysmic treasures, the bottle of Cataclysmic Potion that Qiu Tu obtained was somewhat odd and special...


    "Cataclysmic Potion: Pregnancy Potion"


    "Potion Introduction: A type of Cataclysmic Potion made using Moonlight Water, Multiseed Red Beans, and other Cataclysm materials by a ''Mystery'' route Cataclysmic."


    "Potion Effect: Just a drop in water, when consumed, will significantly increase the probability of pregnancy in living beings, greatly increasing the chance of conceiving offspring. If consumed for 10 consecutive days, the next sexual intercourse is bound to result in pregnancy."


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was baffled upon seeing this potion.


    His first question was: who was supposed to drink this potion?


    From its description, it seemed like it was intended for women, since it could increase the probability of pregnancy.


    But... the potion''s introduction didn''t specify that it was for women only.


    So... at that moment, Qiu Tu had a bold idea: could it be that after consuming this Pregnancy Potion for 10 days straight, the next time he had sex, he could guarantee a woman''s pregnancy at a 100% rate?


    This thought made Qiu Tu, the pervert, feel a bit perverted himself.


    However, he then became curious about who had made this potion and for whom it was intended.


    After much thought, Qiu Tu concluded that in Xinjie City, the only one who was perverted enough and also happened to be associated with ''Reproduction'', was none other than the Heretic Goddess Girl, Larilo.

 Chapter 281 - 232 Inventory of Recent Acquisitions (10,000 Words Seeking Subscriptions!)_2

    Previously, Larilo''s followers had created the "Mandragora Love Drug", which was later proven to be used to beguile those section chiefs and directors'' ladies, to tame them.


    And now she had crafted this "Pregnancy Potion", to be honest, Qiu Tu was really a bit worried.


    He suspected that Larilo was preparing some conspiracy, or had set her sights on some targets....


    Besides the three Cataclysmic treasures obtained from the "Salvage Game", Qiu Tu hadn''t gained much in the past seven or eight days.


    Since Wang Xi was captured, Qiu Tu''s previous authority had not expanded, the loyalty of his subordinates was all very high, and his "Combat Game" had no worthy opponents to take on. So Qiu Tu simply didn''t even play.


    As for the "Crisis Treasure Box", since he hadn''t been through much crisis during this period, only "Jia Shu''s Ambush" brought Qiu Tu a piece of Cataclysmic Material: Shadow Fragments.


    According to the Golden Finger''s introduction, this was considered a somewhat precious Cataclysmic Material, which could be used to craft Cataclysmic Props like the "Whip of Shadows", "Skull Talisman", "Old Seal", etc.


    This actually matched the Cataclysmic Material named "Nameless Stele Powder" that Qiu Tu had obtained last time.


    Qiu Tu pondered handing over this material to Shen Lingshuang, to see what miraculous Cataclysmic treasures this genius Forging Master could create!


    Apart from these rewards obtained from the Golden Finger, Qiu Tu''s biggest gain during this period must be his promotion in position and the enhancement of his Cataclysmic ability.


    The former allowed him to truly have a certain status and influence in the Investigation Bureau, in Xinjie City.


    The latter further enhanced his strength.


    However, what Qiu Tu always found puzzling was that although he was now very powerful, second only to the highest Third Order Cataclysmics among humans.


    But... why did he still feel very weak?


    This feeling of being very weak was not just physical, but also mental.


    He seemed to lack the strong self-confidence of Tang Feifei, and the self-awareness of becoming a supernatural being.


    He always felt like he was missing something....


    He wasn''t sure if it was because he was a late starter, groping alone on the path of Cataclysm, lacking some key factors.


    Therefore, he planned to find Tang Feifei and have a good chat about this matter when he had time in the next two days, to see if there was a problem....


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was taking stock of his gains.


    Footsteps of "tap tap tap" could be heard coming from the staircase of the second floor of the villa.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and looked up, only to see Shen Lingshuang happily bouncing down the stairs with her short little legs.


    Xiao Bai, with its body flattened and widened, almost becoming a thin sheet, was carrying a basketball-sized black statue on its back, following behind Shen Lingshuang, also joyfully running down the stairs.


    Because the potion it drank was imperfect, only one body part of it could enlarge. So, with its big body, short legs, small head, and bent body, it looked extremely comical.


    Qiu Tu watched the pair, the human and the dog, and stood up to greet them.


    But as Shen Lingshuang ran up to him, she grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand and pointed excitedly at the black statue on Xiao Bai''s back, exclaiming, "Qiu Tu, look! What is this?"


    Qiu Tu held Shen Lingshuang''s hand and tilted his head to scrutinize the black statue on Xiao Bai''s back, struggling to make out what it was.


    But... perhaps Shen Lingshuang''s artistic skills were too sophisticated, for, after looking closely for quite a while, Qiu Tu really couldn''t identify what the statue was supposed to be.


    In his eyes, it was merely a lump made of mud... just mud.


    It was full of the imprints of Shen Lingshuang''s palms, fingerprints, looking just like an octopus. It appeared strange and bizarre and upon closer inspection, it even had a bit of Cthulhu''s horror.


    However, faced with Shen Lingshuang''s pride, Qiu Tu figured the problem was most likely with his own sense of aesthetics.


    So, he looked at Shen Lingshuang and tentatively asked, "Is it... a piece of art?"


    Shen Lingshuang, clearly oblivious to Qiu Tu''s confusion, said excitedly, "The Thinker! This is The Thinker!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took another careful look at the black statue.


    After a long while, he had a moment of realization!


    He couldn''t see it at all....


    But faced with the girl''s labor of love over several days, Qiu Tu definitely wouldn''t bluntly speak the truth.


    So he didn''t hesitate to give a thumbs up to Shen Lingshuang, delivering an ample emotional value, "It really does resemble it!"


    "Lingshuang, you know, you really are quite crafty!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s praise, Shen Lingshuang bashfully "hehe" laughed twice, then said, "Actually... my father always praised me for having an artistic talent since I was a child."


    "He said the clay figures I made looked just as alive."


    Qiu Tu:...


    No worries, your father is an official, what he says makes sense.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also timely steered the conversation back to the main topic. He asked, "So what exactly does this Thinking Sculpture do?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Shen Lingshuang proudly placed her hands on her hips, puffed up her chest, and proudly declared, "This, sir, is the first Cataclysmic treasure crafted by yours truly: The Thinking Statue!"


    "The Thinking Statue...?"


    Muttering the name, Qiu Tu''s confused expression slowly turned to realization.


    He remembered.


    He had seen Shen Lingshuang fixing the workshop last time, preparing to create Cataclysmic treasures, so he casually handed over the Cataclysmic material he had obtained before: Behemoth Ashes and Memory Clay, all to Shen Lingshuang (Chapter 182).


    And according to Golden Finger''s description of these two Cataclysmic materials, they were just the right materials to create the Cataclysmic treasure "The Thinking Statue."


    Originally, Qiu Tu didn''t hold much expectation of Shen Lingshuang successfully crafting this treasure; he simply wanted to find something for Shen Lingshuang to do. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, he hadn''t expected that within just a few short days, Shen Lingshuang really managed to tinker it together!


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu looked at Shen Lingshuang with a bit of surprise in his eyes.


    The surprised look in Qiu Tu''s eyes was evidently quite pleasing to Shen Lingshuang.


    She carefully moved the "The Thinking Statue" off Xiao Bai''s back, then held it in her arms, and introduced it to Qiu Tu, "Don''t mind the uglier appearance of this Cataclysmic treasure I''ve made. But... I guarantee it! Its abilities and effects are flawless!"


    As she spoke, Shen Lingshuang proudly claimed, "This Cataclysmic treasure can significantly enhance the user''s thinking speed, memory, and various other capacities."


    "It can not only help the user more easily analyze problems, make decisions, but also assist in rapidly learning knowledge and skills."


    Shen Lingshuang said seriously, "So this treasure can truly be called a cheating device."


    With a reminiscent look in her eyes, she continued, "In the Third Sanctuary, many powerful and influential people used it to quickly learn certain skills, or acquire certain knowledge, often with twice the results for half the effort."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu''s interest was piqued, and then he asked, "Then if I want to learn some martial arts, would it be effective?"


    Shen Lingshuang puffed out her petite chest with certainty, "Of course!"


    "As long as it''s related to learning and thinking, it will have remarkable effects."


    Saying this, Shen Lingshuang, seemingly worried that Qiu Tu wouldn''t believe her, further exemplified, "Actually... I''ve used this Cataclysmic treasure back in the Third Sanctuary."


    She declared, "My pharmacology skills, potion-making skill, and the ability to create Cataclysmic treasures were all learned with its help!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, to tell the truth, Qiu Tu felt like a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head at that moment.


    Were Shen Lingshuang''s unreliable potion-making and treasure-crafting skills learned through "The Thinking Sculpture"?


    Why did Qiu Tu suddenly feel like this treasure was unreliable?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu coughed, concealing his emotions for a moment, then inquired, "Then... does this treasure have any side effects?"


    ---------


    It''s still 10,000 words per three chapters, haha. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 282 - 233: Show Off in Front of Shen Lingshuang (10,000 Words for Subscription!)

    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang also calmed down immediately.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "This prop does have some side effects."


    Qiu Tu tentatively asked, "Is it that the things learned will be incredibly bizarre?"


    Shen Lingshuang: ???


    She always felt that Qiu Tu seemed to be making an implication, but she had no evidence to confirm it.


    Therefore, she pouted suspiciously and glanced at Qiu Tu. After not seeing through any flaws, she dismissed the thought and then said, "It''s not that what''s learned is bizarre. Rather... it requires a large amount of spiritual power."


    Shen Lingshuang raised a finger to her face and gave an example, "Although these learning-type props can greatly shorten the time needed to learn, they do so by increasing ''Brain Speed,'' enhancing brain activity so that one''s learning ability doubles."


    "This leads to a huge consumption of spiritual power in a short period of time."


    "Generally, only Second-Order Cataclysmics and above can afford such a massive cost."


    "Of course, if there are a large number of potions or props that can replenish spiritual power, ordinary people or Cataclysmics can also use it."


    "I relied on drinking potions to use this treasure initially."


    At this point, Shen Lingshuang was somewhat vexed. She spread her hands and said, "So... you might have to wait for a while before you can use this Cataclysmic treasure."


    Upon hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, a strange expression immediately appeared on Qiu Tu''s face.


    He glanced at the unassuming dark statue, then at Shen Lingshuang''s disappointed face, coughed softly, and then slowly said, "Um... how do you know I''ve become a Second-Order Cataclysmic?"


    Shen Lingshuang, who was a bit vexed just a moment ago, first froze upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words. Then her eyes widened dramatically, and she looked up at Qiu Tu in shock, as if trying to read any sign of a lie on his face.


    But Qiu Tu was telling the truth, so his gaze was direct, without even a hint of wavering.


    After quietly watching each other for two or three seconds, Shen Lingshuang finally believed it!


    She said in shock, "You really became a Second-Order Cataclysmic?!"


    Qiu Tu first smiled and nodded his head.


    Then he reached into his pocket, pulled out the empty Crystal Bottle that he had just given Qin Shuman to drink from, and said, "Additionally... how do you know I have more Cataclysmic treasures that can replenish spiritual power?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang couldn''t help but look down at the bottle in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    The exquisitely crafted Crystal Bottle didn''t look as odd and bizarre as the treasures she had made.


    Therefore, with just one glance, relying on the Cataclysmic treasures encyclopedia imprinted in her brain by the ''Thinking Statue,'' Shen Lingshuang accurately identified the Cataclysmic treasure before her: the Nightmare Crystal Vial.


    A Cataclysmic prop that could be reused to replenish spiritual power.


    Shen Lingshuang looked at Qiu Tu again, surprised.


    What met her gaze was Qiu Tu''s smiling expression.


    Shen Lingshuang stared blankly at Qiu Tu for a while, then said with a strange look, "Qiu Tu... you really do have a lot of secrets."


    Having said that, she paused for a moment and then added, "Last time, I learned you got promoted so quickly and suspected you sold your body to a superior."


    "Now, I suspect you sold your body to the Evil God."


    "After all, aside from an Evil God, how could a person''s strength increase so fast, and how could they have so many Cataclysmic treasures."


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Truth be told, Qiu Tu felt that Shen Lingshuang really took the wrong path in studying pharmacology; she should have become a fortune teller or a charlatan!


    After all... although her reasoning was always wrong, the outcomes were alarmingly accurate.


    Thinking about his chastity that Larilo kept eyeing, and the beautiful women constantly presenting themselves, Qiu Tu felt his willpower might not hold out for much longer.


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Shen Lingshuang took the Nightmare Crystal Vial from his hand.


    As she examined it carefully, she expressed with a cute sense of wonder, "You know... Cataclysmic Items and Cataclysmic Potions aren''t common things you find everywhere."


    "Even in the Sanctuary, they are more commonly found in the hands of the upper-middle hierarchy."


    "As for the lower hierarchy, or the Planning Area, that would be even rarer."


    "It would be somewhat more common only in the hands of the Evil God."


    The crisp sound of Shen Lingshuang''s voice was full of girlishness, akin to a warbler, making it particularly pleasant to hear.


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and then asked, "Why would the Evil God have more?"


    Shen Lingshuang bared her little canines, grinning and said, "Are you dumb?"


    "Of course, it''s because there''s an abundance of Cataclysmic Material in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "The formation of a piece of Cataclysmic Material is definitely influenced by the baptism of Cataclysmic Power, or it comes from the body of a Cataclysmic Creature."


    "Where in the real world would there be so much high-purity Cataclysmic Power, and where would there be so many Cataclysmic Creatures."


    "In comparison, the Boundless Heart Sea has plenty."


    "Thus, some Third-Order and above Cataclysmics take time every year to go to the Boundless Heart Sea to collect Cataclysmic Material for crafting Cataclysmic treasures."


    "From this, you can see how precious Cataclysmic Material and Cataclysmic treasures are, right?"


    Upon hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu nodded in agreement.


    No wonder he felt the people in the Planning Area rarely used Cataclysmic treasures, only he and the Evil God Cultists used them more frequently. So that was the reason.


    And so, as he chatted with Shen Lingshuang about the secrets of Cataclysmics and Cataclysmic Material, Qiu Tu freshened up and then went back to the bedroom to sleep with Shen Lingshuang.


    Before moving to the new house, the little girl had expressed a desire for her own room, not wanting to sleep with Qiu Tu anymore.


    However, after moving into the new house and Qiu Tu had finished washing up and lay in bed, she was the first to burrow into Qiu Tu''s covers.


    As for the second, um¡­ it was Xiao Bai.


    Following Shen Lingshuang, it climbed up the bed and was then kicked off by Qiu Tu.


    Angered into a fit of rage, it barked several times at Qiu Tu and, with an almost human-like worried glance at Shen Lingshuang, it finally whimpered out of the bedroom to sulk alone.


    Seeing Xiao Bai''s human-like expressions and actions, Qiu Tu, who was holding Shen Lingshuang, curiously asked, "When I''m not at home, do you usually sleep with Xiao Bai?"


    Leaning on Qiu Tu''s chest, Shen Lingshuang chuckled and replied, "Not really."


    "Xiao Bai is quite independent. She doesn''t even want to be hugged by me."


    "She probably came up today because she was afraid you''d do something bad, so she followed."


    After saying that, Shen Lingshuang added, "Xiao Bai is my good sister. She might be grateful that I gave her those strange abilities and spiritual wisdom. She''s always protective of me."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Indeed, a dog''s way of thinking is hard to understand.


    If someone had force-fed Qiu Tu those bizarre potions and Qiu Tu had gained the ability to resist, he definitely would have bitten the person to death at the first opportunity.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also stroked Shen Lingshuang''s budding beauty and asked, "So, is Xiao Bai a female dog?"


    Shen Lingshuang was annoyed, "She''s my good sister! Not a female dog!"


    Qiu Tu, "Okay, okay. Good sister, good sister."


    In this manner, the two bickered and talked, gradually drifting into their first night''s sleep in the new home.


    Of course, Qiu Tu didn''t forget about today''s "Loyalty Game" before falling asleep.


    Although... the "Salvage Game" had no more subordinates to use.


    But the "Fighting Game" now had a new target to conquer¡ªTan Huimin!


    As a subordinate with a loyalty in the single digits, who also harbored many secrets, Qiu Tu certainly wouldn''t miss the opportunity to use the "Loyalty Game" on her.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu unhesitatingly sent Shen Lingshuang out to attack Tan Huimin.


    To Qiu Tu''s amazement, this "Fighting Game" turned out to be very intelligent.


    Upon starting the game, Shen Lingshuang''s pixelated figure was holding a big wooden mallet, with Xiao Bai following at her feet.


    She might not be good at fighting and dared not go forward herself, so she timidly hid behind, pointing at Tan Huimin, letting Xiao Bai go forward to bite.


    By contrast, Tan Huimin clearly wasn''t adept at fighting either. She ran all over the screen frantically as she was bitten by Xiao Bai, whose head had been enlarged in the game.


    ''Tsk, this is somewhat interesting....''


    While reflecting on this, Qiu Tu also drifted into deep sleep....


    .....


    [Threat in the Darkness (22 hours)]


    [Promise to the Evil God (2.5 days)]


    [Revenge of the United Front (3.5 days)]


    .....


    A quiet night¡­


    The next day, Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang made a cozy breakfast together, which they ate. Then he gave Shen Lingshuang the "Trigger Paper Figure" he had prepared the day before and drove off to work.


    Having received the "Trigger Paper Figure," Shen Lingshuang''s eyes welled up with tears, moved to tears at the breakfast table. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was Qiu Tu who kissed away the tears in her eyes and playfully kissed a bit lower, making the girl laugh and stop crying.


    Afterward, he drove to the Investigation Bureau''s parking lot.


    Parking the car and stepping out, Qiu Tu leaned against the car and silently smoked a cigarette, gazing at the parking lot, feeling a bit of loss¡ªLiu Fuping always liked intercepting him in the parking lot whenever she wanted to discuss something with him.


    So every time after parking, he couldn''t help but wait a bit to see if Liu Fuping would come to find him.


    The habit had now been formed, but the charming person was no longer there, leaving only her voice and smile to make Qiu Tu feel a little nostalgic.


    However, fortunately¡­ in half a month, Dongye State would be established, and by then, Qiu Tu might see her again.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu sighed softly, stamped out the cigarette butt, and then headed towards the Investigation Bureau.


    Taking the elevator up to the 9th floor, he arrived at his deputy director''s office.


    Opening the door, Tan Huimin was already inside, currently bending her knees slightly, sticking out her butt while cleaning the office for Qiu Tu.


    Her already voluptuous figure was outlined by the tight-fitting black pencil skirt, presenting a perfect curve of her buttocks in front of Qiu Tu.


    Witnessing the visually impactful scene, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then quietly closed the office door....


    -------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words. I''m asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 283 - 234: Disciplining Tan Huimin (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Perhaps because Qiu Tu''s movement was really subtle, Tan Huimin clearly didn''t hear the door close.


    She was still standing there with her back to Qiu Tu, her buttocks pouted, holding a white cloth and diligently wiping the legs of Qiu Tu''s desk.


    She was meticulous in her work, wiping with dedication. Qiu Tu watched with equal attention.


    Perhaps because of the nourishment from a man, or possibly because she was at the prime age for a woman, Tan Huimin exuded the voluptuous beauty of a mature woman. That ripe allure added an extra charm to her already beautiful profile.


    And whether it was her own idea, or under the direction of Zheng Tao or Larilo, despite the fact that there had been some conflict and intimacy between her and Qiu Tu the day before,


    today she still wore a tight-fitting professional outfit: a white, semi-transparent blouse, a black pencil skirt that hugged her buttocks, stockings, and high heels.


    Paired with her exquisite curves and her current squatting posture...


    Qiu Tu always felt as though he could see Larilo''s smug smile from her throne above.


    It was as if she was tempting Qiu Tu to degenerate: Come on~ Come on~ Enjoy yourself~


    But who was Qiu Tu?


    He was a man of iron, a paragon of virtue who remained untroubled in the face of temptation!


    Besides, wasn''t every woman beside him far better than Tan Huimin?!


    Plus, Qin Shuman had reminded him just last night.


    So, of course!


    He still couldn''t resist...


    He quietly walked up to her and then smacked Tan Huimin''s buttocks heavily!


    A crisp "Slap!" echoed unusually piercingly in the silent office!


    Tan Huimin was clearly startled, she covered her buttocks, shrieked, and tried to dodge away.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu abruptly pressed down on Tan Huimin''s waist.


    Simultaneously, Qiu Tu''s deep, magnetic voice also resounded in her ear, "Madam... Don''t move. It''s me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin paused for a moment, then found it slightly amusing!


    Qiu Tu wasn''t her husband, so why should she stay still just because he said so! What right did he have to order her around?


    Thinking this, she tried even more fiercely to stand up.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu suddenly spoke up again to remind her, "The tape recorder."


    At that instant, Tan Huimin''s movement abruptly ceased.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu kept one hand on Tan Huimin''s waist and gently caressed her upturned buttocks with the other, continuing to remind her, "The surveillance video."


    Tan Huimin''s body started to tremble slightly, daring not to move a muscle.


    Seeing that he had successfully subdued Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, then sat on his desk, still lightly patting her voluptuous buttocks a few times, and then remarked, "Madam, you tell me... Why provoke me."


    "Is it now a situation of ''riding the tiger and finding it hard to get off'', very awkward for you?"


    Tan Huimin was still bent over with her buttocks raised, not daring to move; her face flushed red, she lightly bit her lip, and her fair oval face was filled with grievances. Her big eyes reddened slightly, looking as though she was holding back tears.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu chuckled lightly, his hand still grasping her full buttocks, and his mouth not missing the chance to attack her mental defenses, "Did you pick out today''s outfit yourself? Or was it your husband Zheng Tao''s choice?"


    Tan Huimin replied in humiliation, "My husband."


    Qiu Tu "tsked" and said thoughtfully, "He has quite the special preference. It seems like he deliberately sent you my way."


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin straightened her back, glared at Qiu Tu, and retorted, "That''s not true! He¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Qiu Tu slapped her buttocks hard again!


    Another crisp "smack!"


    Accompanied by Qiu Tu''s low command, "Bend over. The tape recorder!"


    Tan Huimin''s body shuddered, then with her face full of shame, she looked at Qiu Tu and slowly bent down again...


    Qiu Tu didn''t continue his antics afterward and simply leaned on the desk, quietly admiring Tan Huimin''s bent posture.


    The heavy allure succumbed to the force of gravity, shaping exquisitely.


    Add to that the sense of conquest brought on by her status as the wife of a political enemy, to be honest, Qiu Tu had to admit... Larilo had a knack for temptation.


    She had precisely targeted Qiu Tu''s weakness.


    Even... Qiu Tu felt that this could be considered a bold stratagem of the new era: Personally, he supposed that even if he knew it might be a trap, but... he still wanted to jump in to taste it.


    Of course... What made Qiu Tu stronger than those blinded by desire was his self-control.


    He knew certain traps were worth jumping into, but... one must always be prepared for protection.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu leaned on the desk with one leg on the ground, the other resting on Tan Huimin''s back, using her as a prop.


    Then he lit a cigarette, quietly smoking, while looking down at Tan Huimin from above, softly saying, "Madam, actually, I''m quite interested in the marital life between you and Director Zheng."


    Tan Huimin kept her head low, her hands on the desk to distribute the weight of Qiu Tu''s leg, wanting to speak, but finding herself completely unable to say a word.


    Qiu Tu observed her reaction but didn''t seem to care, continuing with his topic, "I''ve heard... that you and Director Zheng have been married for three or four years now, but you haven''t had any children?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin suddenly startled, then incredulously lifted her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "Don''t be so surprised."


    "Do you think it''s difficult for me, as the deputy head of the Political Department, the person in charge of intelligence, to investigate you?"


    This reason obviously intimidated Tan Huimin.


    So after hesitating for a moment, she then spoke softly, "Yes. These past two years have been a boom period for Ah-Tao''s career, so we haven''t been planning for children."


    Upon hearing her words, Qiu Tu sneered, as if mocking Tan Huimin''s intelligence, and then he countered, "Is that so?"


    "Then... why is the intelligence I''ve received not the same?"


    Qiu Tu continued, "The intelligence I''ve gathered suggests that you''ve always wanted children, but have been unable to conceive."


    "Moreover, you both underwent many examinations during your time at the Sanctuary. Both your and Director Zheng''s health was without issue."


    "It has almost become a source of heartache for you both."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, still bending over, looked up at Qiu Tu in astonishment.


    Clearly, she had not expected Qiu Tu to have investigated so thoroughly.


    In that moment, she even began to wonder if she had underestimated the power of the Political Department''s Intelligence Section:


    Could the Political Department''s Intelligence Section really have investigated the secrets between she and her husband at the Sanctuary so thoroughly in just one night?


    Is the efficiency of the Political Department''s intelligence agency really so high now?


    Thinking this, Tan Huimin felt something was off.


    But then... Ah-Tao used to work with the Political Department too, and he was well acquainted with the head of the intelligence agency. She had never heard him praise the intelligence department.


    In fact, Tan Huimin remembered that Zheng Tao often came home and cursed Section Chief Wang of the intelligence agency, calling him useless, accusing him of botching the intelligence work, and being more trouble than he was worth!


    So how come everything changed the moment Qiu Tu took over?


    Though surprised, Tan Huimin clamped her mouth shut and didn''t let on.


    She braced her hands against the desk, leaning over with a forced smile, "You''re joking, sir. We never wanted children."


    Qiu Tu nodded indifferently and then teased, "Then who''s the one who cries in Director Zheng''s arms every night, lamenting her grievances?"


    At his words, Tan Huimin''s body visibly shook.


    Then she heard Qiu Tu continue, "Tell me, whenever you''ve cried in Chief Zheng''s arms, didn''t you feel something was off?"


    "You were clearly so miserable, so anxious. But why did Chief Zheng seem merely morose and impatient, as if he didn''t care much about the matter?"


    Qiu Tu''s voice was like the devil''s whisper,


    "Have you ever considered... he might very well know the real reason why you have no children?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words trying to sow discord between her and her husband Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin suddenly rose, intending to stand up and argue with Qiu Tu.


    But she was an ordinary woman, and against someone like Qiu Tu, a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened whose body had been enhanced twice, she was severely outmatched!


    Therefore, with just a slight exertion of his leg, Qiu Tu was able to press her waist down again.


    Perhaps because he used too much force, Tan Huimin even yelped in pain, her knees giving way and dropping to the ground.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu withdrew his leg and simply sat half atop the desk, looking down high and mighty at Tan Huimin, who was kneeling between his legs.


    Tan Huimin''s eyes reddened slightly as she rubbed her sore knees, then she looked up at Qiu Tu with a face full of rage, like an unbroken, fiery mare.


    At this, Qiu Tu just took a puff of his cigarette, then laughed as he lowered his head to blow smoke in her face.


    Tan Huimin, caught off guard by Qiu Tu''s sneak attack, wrinkled her brows and closed her eyes as she coughed ceaselessly, clutching her heavy heart.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu felt the thrill of a successful prank. He leaned back, laughed heartily a couple of times, and then shook his head, "Madam, you know better than anyone whether what I''m saying is true or not."


    "Moreover, if I''m not mistaken, you''ve had these suspicions for a while now, haven''t you?"


    Qiu Tu asked incisively, "You noticed early on that your husband wasn''t particularly enthusiastic about having children with you, didn''t you?"


    "And you also noticed how perfunctory he was each time you went for checks together, completely devoid of any concern or surprise."


    "Upon receiving the report, he seemed as though he already knew the outcome, skimming through it then casually discarding it."


    "Add to that the change in his attitude towards you before and after your wedding."


    "From cherishing you like a treasure at the beginning, to becoming increasingly busy, then to often working late and not coming home...."


    "And up to his recent trip to Xinjie City, when he didn''t even want to bring you."


    "You felt his weariness and coldness towards you."


    "That''s why you sensed something was amiss and chased him to Xinjie City, hoping to win back his heart."


    -----


    sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 286 - 236: Confronting Secretary Bai (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    According to Shen Lingshuang, Sanctuary didn''t actually intend to research the direction of life prolongation; it was all a twist of fate.


    Qiu Tu had already learned that First-Order Cataclysmics would enhance their bodies, while Second-Order Cataclysmics would reshape their bodies.


    What he didn''t know was that Third Order Cataclysmics could detach from their bodies and exist in both the real world and the Boundless Heart Sea in the form of a spiritual entity.


    It was in such a state that some more open-minded Third Order Cataclysmics had once engaged in relations in the form of their spiritual entities.


    At first, those two Third Order Cataclysmics thought it was interesting, and since they wouldn''t get pregnant, they went ahead with it.


    But who would have expected... not long after returning to their bodies, the female Third Order Cataclysmic was surprised to discover that she was pregnant.


    And it was... her body wasn''t pregnant, but her soul was.


    This statement might seem counterintuitive and against common sense: how can a soul get pregnant?


    Actually... because Third Order Cataclysmics have sufficiently strong spirits, their souls already have a fixed shape, not much different from their bodies.


    It was the female Third Order Cataclysmic who noticed her soul''s belly swelling, beginning to nurture new life, while her physical body showed no response at all, as though everything were false.


    This discovery left her both shocked and scared, so she reported it to Sanctuary overnight.


    Sanctuary had always been researching the secrets of the Boundless Heart Sea and spiritual entities. So, when they discovered her miraculous case, they immediately started their research.


    And it was through this research that Sanctuary was able to uncover the essence of life''s birth in the Era of Disaster¡ªsouls are born before bodies, which then are entrusted into bodies, and finally born into the material world.


    If a new life lacks a body and only has a soul, that doesn''t matter.


    It will grow strong enough within the soul of its mother, and then it will be born!


    And this time is likely not the typical ten months of pregnancy but could be three years, five years, or even ten years.


    Moreover, because it lacks a body, it cannot be born into the real world but is destined to be born in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Becoming a natural-born Cataclysmic¡ªor rather... a Cataclysmic Creature.


    It was from Shen Lingshuang''s mouth that Qiu Tu learned of this astonishing information, and he boldly guessed the past events involving Zheng Tao, Tan Huimin, and Larilo. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He speculated that Zheng Tao, the Evil God Cultist, likely traded something with Larilo and, in return, gave up his or Tan Huimin''s reproductive capability.


    Thus, for years, despite being perfectly healthy, the couple was unable to have children.


    And it was because Zheng Tao knew the truth that he wasn''t enthusiastic about having children. But since he couldn''t openly discuss the trade, he was forced to accompany Tan Huimin to various medical checks.


    It was this pressure of keeping a secret combined with the weariness of fruitless effort that made him increasingly impatient and cold towards Tan Huimin.


    That''s why he preferred to come alone to Xinjie City and... eventually agreed to send Tan Huimin to Qiu Tu....


    Of course, all of the above were guesses Qiu Tu made after reading Tan Huimin''s memory fragments and learning the secrets of birth in the Era of Disaster from Shen Lingshuang. They couldn''t be guaranteed to be one hundred percent true.


    But... he didn''t care whether his speculation was correct or not. He only intended to sow discord between Tan Huimin and her husband, then open a new channel of intelligence through her, right?


    So, as long as the logic was sound and Tan Huimin believed it, wouldn''t that be enough?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu let go of his moral baseline. Then he slowly presented his entire line of reasoning to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin clearly didn''t quite understand the information conveyed by Qiu Tu. Coupled with her limited trust in him, she listened with skepticism.


    It wasn''t until the end that she asked Qiu Tu with some suspicion, "So, what you mean is... my husband made a trade with the Evil God and gave up my fertility to him?"


    Qiu Tu gently caressed Tan Huimin''s substantial chest, shaking his head, "Not necessarily yours. It could be his."


    "But... it''s definitely one of you two."


    Tan Huimin was visibly stunned.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu didn''t bother her further. He knew Tan Huimin needed time to think and verify the information he had given.


    So, he let go of his hands that had been holding and touching Tan Huimin and prepared to start his work for the day.


    After returning to his desk, he sat down, picked up the telephone, and called Song Qing.


    He asked her to replace Tan Huimin at the Intelligence Section, Interrogation Section, and the Inspection Department, to inform the department heads to summarize their work intel from the last six months, and deliver it to the office before next week. He wanted to review it.


    As for... Tan Huimin. With her mind shaken to this extent, she probably wouldn''t be able to snap back to reality right away, let alone work.


    Indeed, when Song Qing came to report, Tan Huimin was still standing there, lost in thought.


    Song Qing looked at the transfixed Tan Huimin curiously, then leaned toward Qiu Tu and asked with curiosity, "Chief, what''s with the beauty you provoked? Why isn''t she moving?"


    "Did you freeze her in place? ?|???|?*~¡ñ"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu knocked Song Qing on the head in annoyance, "Stop yelling nonsense if there''s nothing. She''s my secretary."


    "Now she...."


    ```


    As Qiu Tu thought this, he coughed and said, "She''s upset because something happened at home."


    Song Qing uttered an "Oh," then looked up at Tan Huimin, whose clothes were disheveled over her chest, her face stained with tear tracks, and her eyes swollen. She nodded and said, "I see. So that''s what happened."


    But her expression clearly showed that she believed none of it.


    Just like that, Tan Huimin remained stunned and motionless for nearly an hour before she finally snapped out of it.


    Yet she said nothing, neither thanking Qiu Tu nor continuing to argue with him¡ªshe just silently resumed her secretarial duties¡ªas if nothing had happened.


    But Qiu Tu knew... his words must have planted a seed in this woman''s heart.


    Her current noncommittal stance was merely because she still harbored a sliver of hope, intending to investigate the so-called "spiritual synergy and life creation" theory that Qiu Tu mentioned to see if it was true.


    Once she realized everything Qiu Tu said was true, a huge rift would form in her heart towards Zheng Tao!


    By then, she would be usable.


    Although her relationship with Qiu Tu might prevent her from being loyal to him... the enemy of one''s enemy is a friend.


    As long as she could become the sharpest knife in Qiu Tu''s hand, did it really matter whom she was loyal to?


    As for whether she would choose to collaborate with someone else after learning the whole truth?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu wasn''t worried. After all, given her status, position, and the people she had access to, was there anyone better to collaborate with than Qiu Tu?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not press Tan Huimin as he had that morning; instead, he went about his business as usual.


    Thus, with their tacit cooperation, the day''s work was quickly finished.


    After work, Qiu Tu didn''t leave the office immediately. Instead, he lit a cigarette and quietly contemplated his evening plans.


    After some hesitation, he ultimately decided to stick to his plan.


    He picked up the phone and called Secretary Bai, expressing a desire to meet with him alone that evening.


    Secretary Bai, as if he had been waiting for this call for a long time, agreed immediately to the request with a light laugh and no hesitation.


    ...


    [Threat in the Darkness (16 hours)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (2 days)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (3 days)]


    ...


    At 6 p.m., Qiu Tu arrived at Secretary Bai''s standalone villa in Xinjie City, ten minutes early.


    Knowing the sensitivity and importance of this conversation, Secretary Bai had arranged for no one to be on guard near the villa and had even sent away the housemaids.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu sighed softly outside Secretary Bai''s villa door. Then, touching the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" hidden on his person and calculating the cooldown of his Cataclysmic ability, he made sure all his life-saving and combat options were ready before stepping into Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Upon entering Secretary Bai''s villa, a melodious piano sound filled the air.


    The elegant and casual notes seemed to express the owner''s calm mindset.


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks and listened quietly to the piano for a while, only proceeding after the piece had finished.


    Secretary Bai, as if he had been waiting for Qiu Tu, spoke in a soft voice without turning around or taking his hands off the piano, "Actually... you should have come earlier."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "It''s not too late now, is it?"


    Secretary Bai chuckled, stood up, and gestured towards Qiu Tu before leading him to the living room.


    Along the way, Secretary Bai hinted with his question, "Aren''t you afraid I''ve set up ambushes all around my house?"


    Qiu Tu replied calmly, "I promised to spend the night with Director Tang."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s seemingly irrelevant but seemingly relevant response, Secretary Bai paused for a moment before bursting into laughter.


    He pointed at Qiu Tu in the air, "You... you''re always so unrestrained, never knowing the proper bounds when you talk."


    After speaking, he shook his head in reminder, "I might not mind such words. But if your subordinates heard them, would you still have any image in front of them?"


    As Qiu Tu listened to Secretary Bai''s friendly conversation and advice, he laughed twice before cutting to the chase, "So, you''ve aligned with the Evil God. Do you think you have any image in front of me?"


    ------


    3 chapters, 10,000 characters haha. Aiming for the minimum Monthly Ticket on the 15th!


    ```

 Chapter 287 - 237: Revealing the True Identity (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai lost his composure and let out a laugh.


    He shook his head and countered, "Defected to the Evil God? What nonsense are you spouting now?"


    As they talked, they had just arrived in the living room.


    Secretary Bai''s villa was decorated with elegance and grandeur. The overall color scheme was primarily grey and white, with cashmere carpets on the floor and impressionist murals on the walls, topped off with simple, stylish ceiling lights. It had a postmodern decorative style that reminded Qiu Tu of his previous life.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s "ghastly" style and Tang Feifei''s simplistic style, Secretary Bai''s decorating style was what Qiu Tu liked best and felt most comfortable in.


    Gesturing towards the light grey fabric sofa, Secretary Bai said to Qiu Tu, "Have a seat first, I''ll get you a cup of tea."


    With that, he turned to fetch a kettle of water from the kitchen and began rinsing the tea set in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu tentatively sat down on the sofa and, seeing that his "Crisis Intuition" gave no indications, he relaxed and naturally watched Secretary Bai preparing the tea.


    While Secretary Bai was making tea, Qiu Tu simultaneously watched and couldn''t help but bring the conversation back to the previous topic. He said, "Since you''re not an Evil God Cultist, why did you say that I should have come earlier?"


    "Does this mean you were waiting for me? And for what reason were you waiting¡­?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai, while pouring tea with his head lowered and gentle demeanor, replied with a smile, "Ever since we visibly fell out, for the most part, our actions have been based on understanding each other''s unspoken thoughts."


    "And we''ve never met or talked before, have we?"


    "Don''t you think it''s about time we met and had a proper conversation?"


    "So when I say you should have come to see me sooner, is there a problem with that?"


    At Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression involuntarily stiffened.


    Secretary Bai was not wrong in what he said.


    The two hadn''t spoken since Secretary Bai tipped off Qiu Tu, raising suspicions from Yan Chen and Jia Shu.


    They only occasionally communicated through glances when they bumped into each other.


    So, Secretary Bai''s statement was indeed reasonable.


    However... Qiu Tu didn''t understand. Was Secretary Bai really unaware of the investigation he was currently conducting, and did he not realize his words and demeanor were ambiguous?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu recalled their conversation upon meeting and asked further, "Fine, I misinterpreted that sentence. But what about when you said your house was full of ambushes, what was that about?"


    "If we have no conflict, why would you ask if I was afraid of an ambush in your home?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a broader smile spread across Secretary Bai''s face.


    After rinsing the tea set and brewing the tea, he placed a cup of the poured tea in front of Qiu Tu, gestured with his hand, and then began to say,


    "Don''t you know how many people you''ve offended lately? Don''t you know there are many who want to see you dead?"


    "When you go to an unfamiliar place now, aren''t you worried about ambushes?"


    "This... It''s really just a joke." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Honestly, Secretary Bai''s explanation was perfect, seemingly without any flaw.


    But both were shrewd individuals well-versed in the bureaucratic world.


    A misinterpretation caused by one statement could be put down to a slip of the tongue on Secretary Bai''s part, or maybe Qiu Tu was overthinking and misunderstood.


    But the chances of two consecutive statements being slips of the tongue or misunderstandings were indeed very slim¡­


    With this thought, Qiu Tu took a deep look at Secretary Bai, mentally prepared: It seems... tonight will be a tough fight.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also abandoned the blunt, swift approach he had initially taken, and began a probing battle of wits with Secretary Bai.


    He picked up the tea, drank it boldly in one gulp, and then asked, "Brother Bai, you say many want me dead, who might they be?"


    As Qiu Tu drank his tea, Secretary Bai also picked up his cup, took a genteel sip, and then said, "For instance... Commissioner Huang, oh, I mean, Chairman Huang."


    Pausing, Secretary Bai seemed to remember something suddenly, looking at Qiu Tu, he asked, "Oh, by the way, Qiu Tu, did you know that Chairman Huang''s man has arrived in Xinjie City?"


    At these words, Qiu Tu frowned slightly.


    If his memory served him right, this secret news was something he had just learned from his "Crisis Intuition" the night before.


    To his surprise, Brother Bai also had this information, and he chose this moment to throw it into the mix.


    Reflecting on the past fifteen minutes he had spent with Brother Bai, Qiu Tu realized that the entire conversation was almost entirely under Brother Bai''s control.


    This was not good news for Qiu Tu, who always liked to control the flow of the conversation for probing and psychological warfare.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu silently resolved: I can''t let this continue. It''s imperative to break this pattern!


    So, with a quick thought, he threw out a bombshell to test Secretary Bai''s mettle.


    "Wu Zhi, isn''t it?"


    "The Advisor from Huang Shangzong''s Attendant''s Office."


    "I''m aware of it."


    Indeed, at Qiu Tu''s bombshell, Secretary Bai visibly startled.


    Clearly, he had not expected Qiu Tu to also be privy to this secret information, and even the enemy''s position and name had been figured out.


    Such surprise directly caused a breach in the conversational front he had maintained since entering the room.


    Qiu Tu keenly captured all of Secretary Bai''s expressions, roughly formulating his plan.


    He began his probing attack, "Old Bai, do you know some inside information?"


    Upon hearing this, Secretary Bai came to his senses, then laughed and shook his head, "How could I possibly know any inside information?"


    "I just happened to hear that Commissioner Wang entertained a distinguished guest last night, and the two enjoyed a long and pleasant conversation."


    "Oh, right, I believe Commissioner Wang is also quite familiar with Deputy Section Chief Ji from the Political Department."


    "So, halfway through, he called Deputy Section Chief Ji over, and they talked for a long time."


    "Deputy Section Chief Ji..." Qiu Tu muttered solemnly, knowing that Secretary Bai was referring to Ji Chen, a confidant of Yan Chen.


    Ji Chen had been placed in the Political Department by Yan Chen half a month ago. He was first promoted to become a First Level Detective.


    Then, a few days ago, after Zheng Tao was promoted to Deputy Division Chief, the vacant position of Chief of the Interrogation Section was taken over by one of its Deputy Section Chiefs, and Ji Chen smoothly assumed that Deputy Section Chief''s position.


    It can be said that Ji Chen is the detective with the fastest promotions in the Investigation Bureau besides Qiu Tu in the past year.


    His rapid three-position jump has left many legends in the Investigation Bureau.


    What''s more important is that even though he has now entered the roster of the Political Department, he still serves at Yan Chen''s side, acting as a semi-secretary.


    Thus, his every word and action to the outside world represent, to some extent, the stance of Yan Chen.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered involuntarily.


    Huang Shangzong, City Hall, and Yan Chen, were these three coming together?


    This was indeed news that made Qiu Tu somewhat uneasy.


    Fortunately, he had thought of a way to deal with this crisis after learning about it last night. Otherwise, he might already be in a state of chaos...


    While Qiu Tu was silently contemplating this crisis, Secretary Bai was also quietly observing him.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu was not panicked by this news, he smiled faintly and continued to pour tea and drink.


    After a few seconds of silent contemplation, Qiu Tu collected his thoughts and then looked deeply at Secretary Bai before saying, "Thanks, Brother Bai."


    When Secretary Bai heard this, he laughed heartily. Pointing at Qiu Tu, he said, "You, you. You''re really slick. You call me Old Bai when you suspect me, but once I''ve helped you, you call me Brother Bai."


    "You''re way too pragmatic!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu also laughed "Hehe" a couple of times, then found an excuse, "I''ve just taken over the Supervisors Department, so I have a bit of an occupational disease. I''m suspicious of everyone I meet."


    "I ask Brother Bai to forgive me."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu seemed to suddenly remember something, then casually asked, "By the way, Brother Bai, when can my secretary be arranged?"


    Qiu Tu added, "I recall that secretaries of Deputy Division Chief level and above are arranged by the Administrative Office. And usually, they are arranged either on the same day or the next day."


    "What about my secretary?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai let out an "Oh," then while picking up Qiu Tu''s tea cup, he said, "I was just about to talk to you about that."


    "Minister Shi said that your position is rather sensitive and special, so the choice of secretary needs to be cautious, so he asked me to postpone it a few days for you. He wants to choose carefully."


    "Minister Shi from the Organizational Department...?" Qiu Tu looked deeply at Secretary Bai upon hearing this.


    Then he smiled and asked, "By the way, Brother Bai. Who decided on Zheng Tao''s promotion to the position of Deputy Division Chief of the Public Security Bureau? Was it Minister Shi?"


    Secretary Bai thought carefully for a moment, then slowly replied, "It seems like it was Deputy Director Yu who decided, right?"


    "I''ve forgotten the specifics. But I don''t think it was Minister Shi."


    "Deputy Director Yu..." Qiu Tu was visibly stunned, then he looked deeply at Secretary Bai once again. Following up, he asked, "By the way, Brother Bai. On the day Director Yan''s daughter, Yanyan, came to Xinjie City from the Sanctuary, did you personally go to receive her?"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s relentless questioning, Secretary Bai laughed and shook his head, then he poured a cup of tea for Qiu Tu and joked, "You really do have an occupational disease."


    "You''re treating me as your suspect, interrogating non-stop."


    "Come on, drink up, drink up."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu knew he was being a bit too eager, so he wisely picked up his tea cup, tilted his head back, and downed it in one gulp.


    And just as that cup of tea went down, Secretary Bai''s low voice suddenly resounded in Qiu Tu''s ear, "I wasn''t the one who went to receive her that day; it was Ji Chen. I waited for the two of them to reach the villa before I went out to welcome Miss Yanyan."


    "I recall that day was rainy, and just by walking a few steps, half of my sleeve got wet."


    "So, it left a deep impression..."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s account, Qiu Tu''s hand trembled involuntarily, and his eyes widened. He suddenly understood what Secretary Bai was really doing by saying so much tonight...


    ''Is he intentionally revealing his identity to me?''


    -----


    3 chapter update of 10,000 words haha, seeking Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 288 - 238: The Secret Revealed by Secretary Bai (10,000 Words for Subscriptions)

    ```


    With these thoughts in mind, Qiu Tu continued to sip his tea while covertly glancing at Secretary Bai.


    At that moment, Secretary Bai appeared as though he hadn''t been the one to speak those words; he simply kept his head down, quietly savoring his tea, looking very serene.


    Qiu Tu recalled every image he had of Secretary Bai in his memory and realized that the man always had that same expression.


    There was a faint smile on his face, neither aggressive nor distant, but reflecting a sense of inner peace.


    It was as if, to him, everything in this world was like fleeting clouds, unworthy of his care or attention.


    Honestly, it was precisely because of this impression of Secretary Bai in his mind that Qiu Tu found it hard to believe, after discovering that Secretary Bai was very likely a cultist of the Evil God.


    After all... how could a person without desires be tempted by the Evil God and become a believer?


    What could the Evil God possibly offer to entice him?


    Money, power? Beauties, immortality?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu always felt that at least on the surface, Secretary Bai didn''t seem to care about these things.


    While Qiu Tu was pondering this, Secretary Bai also put down his teacup, smiled, and gestured toward the yard of his villa, saying, "Do you remember those flowers that you and Ah-Tai gave me?"


    Qiu Tu recalled and then remembered that Secretary Bai, who had no other hobbies, enjoyed reading and admiring flowers.


    As for books, they were rare treasures in tumultuous times, and Qiu Tu and Ah-Tai couldn''t provide any, so when Secretary Bai came back to Xinjie City, they dug up some flowers from the outskirts and gave them to him.


    Secretary Bai liked them very much at the time and even complimented the two on their taste.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu also said, "Oh, I remember. Ah-Tai and I dug up the chrysanthemum from the outskirts for you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s response, Secretary Bai smiled slightly and gestured to Qiu Tu before standing up and walking toward the courtyard.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but follow along.


    As they reached the inner garden of the villa, what caught Qiu Tu''s eyes were several chrysanthemums, with their graceful and charming postures waving gently in the wind.


    The chrysanthemum stems were tall and sturdy, with round buds growing skyward, two flowers on a single stem, petals curved and coiling inward.


    Seeing those chrysanthemums, Secretary Bai sighed softly, squatted down, and while gently touching them, said, "In this world, all things are shrouded by a layer of dreamy, white mist."


    "Sometimes, you think you''ve seen the truth, but in fact, you''ve been mistaken."


    With that, Secretary Bai pointed at the flowers and said with a smile, "You and Ah-Tai always thought these were chrysanthemums."


    "And indeed, they do look like chrysanthemums."


    "But in fact, they are not chrysanthemums, they are orchids."


    "Orchidaceae, the Cymbidium genus, Golden Sand Chrysanthemum."


    "A very precious kind of orchid before the Era of Disaster, and you two rough men happened to dig it up." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t be deceived by its appearance as a chrysanthemum, even its name includes ''chrysanthemum'', but it is an authentic orchid."


    Listening to Secretary Bai''s words that seemed to carry a deeper meaning, Qiu Tu asked, "Given this, was it right or wrong for Ah-Tai and I to dig it up and bring it here?"


    Secretary Bai stood up with a smile and patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, "Of course, it was right."


    "No matter what it looks like, if it should be dug up, it should be dug up."


    "After all, leaving it abandoned outside, no one knows what accidents could happen, right?"


    "It''s just that... when digging it up, one must be clear about what it really is and why it came to look this way."


    "Only through accumulating such knowledge will your experience grow richer, and you''ll be less likely to make the same mistakes when encountering similar situations in the future."


    At this, Secretary Bai paused for a moment, "Besides, if you hadn''t dug it up back then, how could you have met me so naturally?"


    "Did you really think I was someone you could meet on a whim?"


    Saying this, Secretary Bai winked with a smile, "I can be quite shrewd, you know."


    Listening to these words with a double meaning, Qiu Tu gave Secretary Bai a deep look and then nodded with a smile, "Understood."


    Having said all he wanted, and needed to say for the evening, Secretary Bai patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder and joked, "Alright then. We''ve talked, and we''ve seen the flowers."


    "Go have one more cup of tea before you leave."


    "Director Tang is still waiting for you outside. The night is short but affection is long, do not let the fair lady wait in vain."


    At his words, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and nodded.


    After returning to the living room, Secretary Bai brewed the final cup of tea, and after Qiu Tu drank it, he stood up and left the villa without looking back.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departing figure, Secretary Bai moved slowly to the piano, sat down, and began playing again.


    An unknown piece, carrying a hint of parting sorrow and regret, as if seeing Qiu Tu off...


    The azure moonlight shone down, casting its glow on Secretary Bai and his ever-composed face, the serenity was profound.....


    ...


    Stepping out of Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Qiu Tu looked up toward the distance where Tang Feifei stood with her hands in her pockets atop a tree, quietly watching him.


    This woman, despite being a bit violent, lustful, and aloof, was still extremely reliable when it came down to business.


    Qiu Tu worried that seeking Secretary Bai tonight might lead to an encounter with the Evil God, so he made a call directly to her.


    And successfully employed Tang Feifei for the night with a "price."


    Tang Feifei initially wanted to enter the villa with Qiu Tu, but he refused her suggestion, not wanting to startle the snake in the grass.


    So, Tang Feifei toured around the villa to scout the terrain and eventually chose the top of this pine tree.


    According to her, standing at the top of this pine tree gave her a bird''s-eye view of the entire villa.


    Moreover, with the "Spiritual Vision" state, she could clearly see all of Qiu Tu''s and Secretary Bai''s actions and conditions, ready to execute rescue if needed.


    Qiu Tu found her reasons to be very sound, so he agreed.


    And now, seeing Qiu Tu return safely, Tang Feifei leaped lightly off the tree, arms spread, descending like a flying hawk from the treetop.


    ```


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, Tang Feifei''s gaze swept up and down his body before she asked in an indifferent tone, "Is everything okay?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    Tang Feifei said, "Then, let''s go to my place to talk."


    After saying that, she turned around and strode with her long legs toward her villa.


    The villas of Tang Feifei and Secretary Bai were not far apart. In other words, apart from the independent manor that Yan Chen had someone build separately, the high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau all had their villas built together.


    Arriving at Tang Feifei''s home, apart from the people patrolling outside, there were no outsiders in the villa.


    The two sat down on the sofa and talked about their recent meeting with Secretary Bai.


    Tang Feifei asked in a cool manner, "Was it Bai Yu?"


    Qiu Tu''s face became somber as he nodded and said, "It should be him."


    Tang Feifei squinted as if she were a lioness eyeing her prey and asked, "How did you confirm it?"


    Qiu Tu recounted everything from meeting Secretary Bai to the moment of departure, including all their conversation and expressions.


    Perhaps because she wasn''t very good at this kind of circuitous conversations, Tang Feifei slightly furrowed her brows.


    She tilted her head up, her wheat-colored face conveying dissatisfaction, "What kind of riddles are you playing at?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He explained, "Old Bai indeed likes to speak in riddles."


    Qiu Tu gave an example, "Like when he wanted me to escape, but he didn''t directly tell me where to go; instead, he told me that Director Liu from Eastern City had some conflict with Yan Chen."


    "This was his way of implying it to me."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei nodded slightly with a cool expression, offering her opinion, "Bai Yu does indeed like to talk in circles. He never gives a straight answer."


    After speaking, she inquired, "But what did you hear from what he said?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly, then explained to Tang Feifei, "With Old Bai, you need to listen to only half of it, to the implications."


    "From the very first sentence he said upon our meeting, he was actually giving me a hint."


    "He said I should have come earlier, which really was to tell me that I was right to seek him out. But... it was a bit late."


    "And when he said his house was filled with ambushes, he was implying that the two of us were actually on opposing sides."


    "Even though he gave various explanations afterward, but... they were just explanations."


    "Later, he told me that Advisor Huang Shangzong came to Xinjie City, ready to harm me."


    "In fact, he revealed two pieces of information."


    "The first layer was the apparent information, warning me that Huang Shangzong was ready to make a move on me. The second layer was what he really wanted to express: he... hadn''t changed at all, he had never intended to harm me."


    "But at that time, I wasn''t clear about his stance, nor what he was really thinking, so I couldn''t figure out what he wanted to convey, and I had to keep probing."


    "I previously asked him directly if he was an Evil God Cultist, and he denied it."


    "Whether he didn''t want to confess and leave any leverages, or there was some kind of compulsion on him that prevented him from admitting it, in any case, I knew I couldn''t inquire so directly."


    "So, I simply started to gather information."


    "I asked him three questions. When my secretary would be arranged; who supported Zheng Tao''s promotion to Deputy Division Chief; who picked up Yan Chen''s daughter Yanyan."


    "These three questions seemed inconsequential, but they were actually full of implications."


    "Zheng Tao has now been confirmed as a follower of Larilo, so the person who promoted him to target me back then is very likely that high-level mole."


    "And Larilo wanted to use Zheng Tao''s wife to lure me by letting her become my secretary. But as a Deputy Division Chief, I was supposed to have a secretary. Once there was a new secretary by my side, Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin, would definitely have to leave."


    "So, to prevent Tan Huimin from leaving, that high-level mole would definitely interfere with the selection of my new secretary." (Chapter 213)


    "The only thing about picking up Yan Chen''s daughter... that was because I was almost certain that the girl now with Yan Chen was the Evil God Lariro."


    "That''s why I used these three questions to probe Secretary Bai."


    "Secretary Bai''s response to the first question was fairly normal. He said it was Advisor Shi Youxin from the Organizational Department interfering with the selection of my secretary."


    "The second question, however, was a bit off. Because he brought up a second suspect: Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi, claiming Director Yu made Zheng Tao''s promotion happen."


    "As for... the third question. He was outright lying."


    "He claimed that it was Ji Chen who went to pick up Yan Chen''s daughter that day, and he just welcomed her at the villa''s entrance."


    "But actually... from that evening, Ji Chen was with me and Yan Chen the whole time. Instead, it was he who had disappeared for a long time and did not return to the villa until late at night."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s eyes flashed with a dangerous gleam, "So he gave himself away?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "No. He was deliberately hinting at me."


    Tang Feifei was a bit puzzled, "Hinting?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "Yes. Because he... actually knew Ji Chen had been by my side the whole time."


    "He used a falsehood to tell me that his previous two answers were also false."


    "The true answers... they were all him."


    "It was he who promoted Zheng Tao, it was he who prevented the Administrative Office from assigning me a new secretary, and it was he who brought the Evil God to Yan Chen''s side."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s brows furrowed deeply, "But why would he do that?"


    Tang Feifei was clearly confused by the tacit understanding between Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai.


    Her wheat-colored face was filled with bewilderment.


    Then, frowning slightly, Tang Feifei made two hypotheses in her cold tone, "If he really is an Evil God Cultist, he should act as if everything has nothing to do with him or blame these three things entirely on one person, to divert the direction of your investigation."


    "If he isn''t an Evil God Cultist, he shouldn''t be doing these things for the Evil God! He is joking with his own life!"


    ------


    Still 3 chapters, 10,000 words each. Vote for your Monthly Ticket, ha!

 Chapter 289 - 239: The Person Behind Secretary Bai Is... (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Qiu Tu nodded, agreeing with Tang Feifei''s judgment, "You make sense."


    "So Old Bai explained to me later."


    Tang Feifei frowned deeply, a flicker of unusual color passing through her eyes, "Are you referring to when he said ''You think you''ve seen the truth, but in fact, you''ve seen it wrong?''"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said with a deep gaze, "Yes. He said that everything in this world is shrouded in a layer of white fog. We think we see chrysanthemums before us, but in fact... it''s orchids."


    "That itself is telling me that what I''m seeing now may not be the truth. Instead, it''s an illusion."


    "It''s possible that he really did defect to Larilo, but there could be compelling reasons. It''s just that he can''t say them out loud."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s explanation, Tang Feifei''s gaze deepened, and she sat cross-armed on the sofa, falling into thought.


    After pondering for a dozen or so seconds, she looked at Qiu Tu and slowly said, "So... the conversation you had after that seemed to be about whether that orchid from back then should be dug up."


    "In reality, it was about whether you can move against him now."


    "And Bai Yu''s answer was: Though it should be dug, we must clarify what it looks like. In fact, he was hinting to you that you should still move against him, but make sure you don''t misinterpret his identity."


    "And what he said afterward: ''If you don''t dig up the orchid, how can you see him.'' was actually telling you that if you don''t apprehend him, if you don''t pursue this truth, how can you understand the true nature of the affair?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "Yes, that''s right."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s affirmative answer, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face didn''t show much joy, but rather, more doubt appeared.


    Her gaze slightly narrowed as she looked at Qiu Tu, "But... what could be the reason that he ''had no choice'' but to turn to the Evil God?"


    "Do you realize, once someone becomes an Evil God Cultist, the only thing awaiting him is execution by firing squad. There''s no second path."


    "He can''t really think that just by hoodwinking you a bit, he could escape doom, could he?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu fell silent for a few seconds before slowly saying, "Perhaps... there are unspeakable difficulties."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s expression, Tang Feifei sharply picked up on something. She questioned him with suspicion, "Do you know the reason?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu quickly shook his head with a smile, "How could I possibly know the reason. I''ve told you everything in my conversation with Old Bai."


    "What you know is what I know."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei paused to think. Although she still felt something wasn''t quite right, she eventually nodded slightly, "That''s true."


    After speaking, she inquired, "So... what are you planning to do next?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s question, Qiu Tu also pulled his emotions from the distress of Old Bai being the "mastermind" behind the scenes.


    He slightly curved the fingers of his right hand into a grasping motion and then said, "Catch him!"


    "I want you to help me apply to Tang Jiancha for an investigation order! Authorizing us to apprehend Secretary Bai and bring him back to the Political Department for interrogation!"


    When Tang Feifei heard Qiu Tu''s words, she didn''t leave immediately but asked another question, "It shouldn''t be just this one investigation order, should it?"


    At this, Qiu Tu chuckled, "Hehe," and with a cheeky expression said, "If possible, I''d trouble you to also approve the investigation order for Yan Chen''s daughter, Yan Yan."


    "That way, once I''ve captured Old Bai, I can go directly to apprehend Larilo and prevent her from escaping."


    Tang Feifei: ...


    Tang Feifei, looking at Qiu Tu, remarked, "You really can''t sit still, can you? You won''t be satisfied until you''ve stirred up the heavens."


    But Tang Feifei was a decisive and efficient woman, so even though she lamented, she stood up and then said, "I''ll call my second uncle and ask."


    "However, I can''t guarantee it''ll be successful."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then said, "Then I''ll go take a shower and wait for you."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s heart raced for a moment.


    She sized up Qiu Tu with a dangerous look in her eyes, then coolly said, "Don''t worry, I guarantee it will be successful."


    Having said that, she turned and walked away with her long legs, leaving the living room.


    Seeing her departing figure, Qiu Tu smirked, feeling like he was engaged in some sort of bribe.


    ''All of this is for the investigation, the investigation!'' he chanted to himself twice, brainwashing himself, before he finally turned to go to the bathroom to shower.


    In the bathroom, amid the "pitter-patter" of water, Qiu Tu''s thoughts grew even more profound.


    In truth... he had just lied to Tang Feifei.


    Although he indeed told Tang Feifei every detail of his conversation with Secretary Bai, what Qiu Tu didn''t mention was... he might have guessed the real message that Secretary Bai was trying to convey to him secretly.


    This hidden message wasn''t obtained through conversation or gestures, but through Secretary Bai''s series of abnormal behaviors tonight, which led Qiu Tu to his own realization...


    What kind of person Secretary Bai was, Qiu Tu knew best: he was someone who would repay even the smallest kindness with a fountain of gratitude.


    Ever since Qiu Tu saved his life, Secretary Bai had been repaying the kindness he owed.


    Including helping Qiu Tu and others buy houses in Old Alley Street; including leaving enough money for Qiu Tu for two or three years of living;


    Including, after the establishment of Xinjie City, recruiting Qiu Tu into the Administrative Office of the Investigation Bureau; including introducing Qiu Tu to Yan Chen as a driver;


    Including turning a blind eye to the fact that through his and Yan Chen''s influence, Qiu Tu was able to get Ah-Tai and others jobs; including secretly giving Qiu Tu hints and tips, helping him escape.


    It also includes that even though he was at odds with Qiu Tu, he still found an opportunity to tell him that an Advisor from Huang Shangzong had arrived in Xinjie City and was plotting against Qiu Tu¡­


    All these actions prove that although he seems indifferent on the surface, he actually has a clear sense of gratitude and grudges¡­


    Therefore, Qiu Tu boldly speculated: Secretary Bai, who clearly has no desire for "Reproduction" nor interest in the Evil God, still became a follower of Larilo, probably also because of gratitude.


    However, seeing that Secretary Bai did not hesitate to betray Larilo today, it seemed that the gratitude did not come from Larilo.


    So¡­ Qiu Tu speculated that maybe someone who was indebted to Secretary Bai asked him to become a follower of Larilo, leading to all this.


    For example¡­ Yan Chen.


    Although Qiu Tu is unclear about what kind of favor Secretary Bai owed Yan Chen, based on all of Secretary Bai''s actions, it seems that he is very loyal to Yan Chen.


    Even if Secretary Bai gave Qiu Tu hints or leaked information several times, it was all under the circumstance where he believed it would not affect Yan Chen''s interests. (Chapter 127)


    So, when he found out that Secretary Bai had become an Evil God Cultist almost without any motivation, and also did not hesitate to betray the Evil God.


    Qiu Tu''s first reaction was: Couldn''t it be that Secretary Bai became a follower of Larilo by Yan Chen''s arrangement?


    As for why Yan Chen would make such an arrangement, Qiu Tu is unclear¡­


    And to what extent Yan Chen is involved in this matter, Qiu Tu is unclear¡­ S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Does Yan Chen actually know that his daughter has been switched? Qiu Tu is unclear.


    What role he played in the incident of his daughter being switched, Qiu Tu is also unclear.


    The only thing he could guess was: Perhaps, Yan Chen wanted to gain a huge benefit from Larilo.


    But Yan Chen is cautious and does not want to take risks personally, nor does he want to ruin his future prospects, so he hinted or arranged for Secretary Bai to become a follower of Larilo.


    For more specific details, Qiu Tu could only wait to apprehend Secretary Bai to get a clear picture¡­


    ''So¡­ are Larilo and Yan Chen actually playing their own separate games of chess on the same board?''


    ''It all depends on who has the superior tactics. Who can outmaneuver the other?''


    The more he found himself in this chess game, the more Qiu Tu realized the complexity of the situation.


    And what''s more critical is that he discovered¡­ both the players holding black and white pieces were his enemies.


    It seemed that no matter who won, it wouldn''t be good for him¡­


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep breath and then exhaled a heavy sigh!


    No matter what, Secretary Bai''s "surrender" allowed him to finally seem to glimpse the true whole picture of Xinjie City''s chess game.


    He believed that as long as he continued, he would soon be able to figure everything out and make his own choices!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu turned off the hot water, then dried his body, wrapped the bath towel around his waist, and walked towards the bedroom.


    As he entered the bedroom, Tang Feifei had just finished a phone call.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come in, her gaze narrowed, and her sharp eyes swept across Qiu Tu''s bare upper body and the six-pack abs several times.


    The yellow glint at the bottom of her eyes began to flicker, like a female leopard spotting an interesting prey.


    There''s an awareness that comes with being a kept man.


    So, ignoring Tang Feifei''s predatory expression, Qiu Tu sat on the bed nonchalantly, propping his hands beside him, then asked, "What did uncle say?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei withdrew her gaze, then, as she began to undo her uniform jacket, she said coolly, "Uncle agreed."


    "And he knows you''re eager to work on the case. So, he said he''ll expedite the stamping and fax the Authorization Letter over. This way, you can take action tomorrow."


    Having heard what Tang Feifei said, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but give a thumbs up, "That''s uncle for you, always reliable."


    Tang Feifei let out a faint snort, as if to mock Qiu Tu''s naivety¡ªit wasn''t without her spending a lot of effort, using threats and temptations, that Tang Jiancha would have agreed so readily.


    But she herself was not the type to explain, so while she tossed her shirt aside and continued to unbutton her inner garment, she added, "Another thing. He asked me to warn you."


    "Huang Shangzong has set his sights on you and has been looking up your information lately."


    "And since Dongye State is about to be established, from then on, city-level cases can no longer be directly authorized by the Sanctuary; they have to go through a procedure at the state level first."


    "So, once Huang Shangzong decides to cut you off, he might only be able to help you this one time. Therefore, he wants any conflicts you have to be resolved in one go."


    ------


    Three chapters, ten thousand words, ah. Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 290 - 240: Fierce Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up slightly, incredulously looking at Tang Feifei,


    "So... this means I have unlimited firing rights?"


    Tang Feifei: ?


    At this moment, Tang Feifei had already switched to her body''s last line of defense.


    She clasped the white ribbon she wore before becoming Yue Xiong, then silently stared at Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, she tore off the ribbon and threw it at Qiu Tu''s face, saying coldly, "In your dreams!"


    She gave Qiu Tu a disdainful side glance, "Even I don''t dare to stir up trouble carelessly, fearing that it would bring complications to my family."


    "If you create too big of a mess, and actually provoke the people behind Yan Chen, or Huang Shangzong..."


    "At that time, you better not blame me for running faster than you."


    Tang Feifei''s ribbon carried a faint scent of milk, and it smelled quite nice; Qiu Tu took it off his face, and while rubbing it, curiously asked, "Then what does Second Uncle mean?"


    Tang Feifei said, "Second Uncle just wants you to be decisive."


    "Any opponent that needs to be dealt with must be done with a ruthless heart and hand, without showing any mercy."


    "But for the opponents you can''t handle, after showing your toughness, if you must concede, then concede. Don''t stubbornly resist."


    "Politics is the art of compromise; all officials who have climbed to the level of Bureau Chief, haven''t done so without being masters of this game."


    "Once they realize that you too can''t be dealt with easily, cooperation becomes the option that benefits both sides."


    "Since Huang Shangzong has already set his sights on you, you can''t afford to give him the slightest opening!"


    It was then that Tang Feifei stood before Qiu Tu, hands on her hips, and said indifferently, "This is what Second Uncle means by ''resolve it in one go''!"


    The way Tang Feifei stood in front of Qiu Tu had nothing wrong with it, but... paired with her lack of clothing, it seemed somewhat enticing.


    Qiu Tu looked up admiringly at Tang Feifei''s body; under the illumination of the light, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored skin seemed to shimmer with a golden glow. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps because of practicing martial arts, along with constant exercise and stretching, her body was full of elasticity, slim where it should be slim, and curvy where it should be curvy.


    And because she was a Third Order Cataclysmic, having gone through three enhancements and two reconstructions, her lines were smooth, not abrupt at all, exceedingly beautiful, just like a Victory Goddess.


    Qiu Tu remembered the first time he tried Tang Feifei''s body, that part which was both soft and bouncy to the touch, had left him lingering for a long time.


    Reining in his wandering thoughts, Qiu Tu brought his focus back to the main issue.


    He looked at Tang Feifei and asked, "What about you? Would you compromise politically?"


    Tang Feifei let out a "Heh" and looked down at Qiu Tu from above, "I could smash his head in!"


    Having said that, she slightly squinted her eyes, looking at Qiu Tu and said, "If you fail to satisfy me, I will also smash your head in."


    She said lightly, "I''ve been a bit irritable lately; I don''t feel like holding back any longer."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Before Qiu Tu could react, Tang Feifei pounced on him like a leopardess, directly ripping off the bath towel he was wearing!


    In that instant, the sounds of two Cataclysmics in combat filled the room.


    But whether it was underestimating him, or misjudging Qiu Tu''s strength,


    Although Tang Feifei had unlocked part of her power, in a few exchanges, she found herself unable to suppress Qiu Tu!


    She finally sensed something was amiss and wanted to completely unleash her power as a Third Order Cataclysmic, but it was too late.


    Qiu Tu took advantage of Tang Feifei''s underestimation and went all out decisively, quickly putting Tang Feifei under pressure.


    But Tang Feifei, having practiced martial arts for many years, was also a proud person; so, despite the discomfort of being overpowered, she still bit her lip and didn''t cry out for mercy even once.


    In this way, the two fought fiercely for almost two hours, only falling together after a powerful exchange of moves.


    In that moment, the world seemed to quiet down, even time appeared to slow significantly.


    Both were immersed in the afterglow of the intense battle and the satisfaction of meeting a worthy opponent, and neither wanted to speak...


    Several minutes passed in silence before Tang Feifei propped herself up on her arm, turned towards Qiu Tu with a puzzled face, and asked, "Did you advance?"


    "A Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    Qiu Tu''s face was filled with smugness, but his tone was as casual as ever, "Just like that... I advanced accidentally."


    Tang Feifei: ??


    Looking at Qiu Tu''s irritatingly smug face, a vein on Tang Feifei''s forehead throbbed.


    She remembered the hardship she endured to advance as a Second Order Cataclysmic, and suddenly felt a tinge of annoyance.


    So, she got up and wanted to have another battle with Qiu Tu!


    Before, she had been accommodating to Qiu Tu, so she restrained her own instincts, but now she wanted to unleash all her strength and have a proper fight with him.


    Just then, as if Qiu Tu sensed Tang Feifei''s thoughts, or perhaps he really had a sudden inspiration.


    He suddenly slapped Tang Feifei''s very elastic bottom and said, "Feifei! There''s actually something I want to ask you."


    "Why do I feel that all you Third Order Cataclysmics, Second Order Cataclysmics, each and every one of you, are so strong?"


    "While I... seem to have increased my level in vain, as my strength hasn''t improved that much, has it?"


    Qiu Tu recalled, "Like you, like the Special Service Department''s Bureau Chief Lin Qin."


    "I once saw him cover a distance of more than ten meters in one step, then throw a punch that almost had the power of a small grenade."


    With that said, Qiu Tu waved his arm and added, "But I... don''t seem to have that kind of strength."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei glanced at him sidelong, leaned into his embrace, and then said, "Of course. Because you haven''t systematically learned martial arts, nor have you learned the corresponding techniques for exerting force."


    "So, naturally, you can''t bring out the strength in your body."


    Qiu Tu became interested upon hearing this and asked, "Martial arts? Techniques for exerting force?"


    "Does such power exist in this world?"


    Tang Feifei, obviously interested as well, began to discuss earnestly, "Of course."


    She explained, "What''s the biggest change in the Era of Disaster?"


    "It''s the physical manifestation of mental power."


    "Mental power started to influence reality and thus began to possess various miraculous, weird, and powerful abilities."


    "And all the skills that can enhance mental power, make it more focused and stronger, started to shine anew."


    Tang Feifei straightened up and presented herself in front of Qiu Tu, then coldly gave examples, "Like pottery, painting, musical instruments, and even fishing, performing arts¡ªall have developed to different extents."


    "Many Cataclysmics have one or two different hobbies."


    "And martial arts... a skill that can condense mental power and also improve the physical strength of Cataclysmics is naturally even more esteemed and promoted by them."


    Qiu Tu mused upon hearing this and said thoughtfully, "So, I''m actually lacking in two aspects?"


    "One is... my mental power isn''t focused enough to wield the strength of a Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    "And two is... I don''t understand martial techniques, so I can''t use the powerful strength of my body as a Second Order Cataclysmic?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, then she inquired, "Do you read books?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated, "When do I have the chance?"


    Tang Feifei said coldly, "Exactly."


    "Reading is actually the lowest-cost and most convenient way to refine mental power."


    "When you immerse yourself in the ocean of books for a long time, your mental power will also be involuntarily honed."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember the times he had seen Yan Chen reading books and nodded suddenly.


    He finally understood where he was lacking.


    Frankly, he only had the level of a Second Order Cataclysmic, but he didn''t truly possess the strength of one.


    If not for his unique Cataclysmic ability that was unbeatable against weaker foes, he probably wouldn''t be able to beat even a well-trained First-order Catastropher.


    At that moment, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s unusual emotions, Tang Feifei added, "Of course, you actually don''t need to learn martial arts or refine your mental power."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s puzzled look, Tang Feifei explained, "Because, even the strongest body can''t withstand a cannon."


    "Once you have enough authority, your personal martial prowess doesn''t really matter."


    At this point, as if something occurred to her, Tang Feifei suddenly said, "Oh right, my uncle mentioned that Huang Shangzong has sent his Advisor to Xinjie City, did you know that?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu crossed his hands behind his head, smiled, and said, "I know. Not only do I know, but I also know that they''ve connected with Commissioner Wang and that even Yan Chen''s confidant assistant has collusion with them."


    "If I''m not wrong, they will probably make a move against me tomorrow morning."


    "But you don''t need to worry, I already have a countermeasure."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s face first filled with surprise, then she looked at Qiu Tu with skepticism.


    ------

 Chapter 291 - 241: Tang Feifei is Shocked (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Clearly, Tang Fei didn''t quite understand how Qiu Tu knew so much information, even more than she did.


    After all, her news came from the Sanctuary.


    So, she couldn''t help but look at Qiu Tu with a puzzled face and asked, "This should be a very secretive matter, right?"


    "How did you come to know this? And know so much about it."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu actually really wanted to complain that this so-called secret message didn''t seem secret at all.


    Not only did he know, but even Secretary Bai knew.


    Of course, although Qiu Tu thought this way, definitely wouldn''t say it.


    And... facing a woman like Tang Feifei, what he needed to do was maintain a sense of mystery.


    Not only could this arouse her curiosity, but it also easily increased her desire to conquer.


    Although Tang Feifei never explicitly said it, Qiu Tu had indeed clearly felt Tang Feifei''s interest in him diminish over time.


    Perhaps because she had already gotten him and no longer found him precious, or perhaps because the two had spent too much time together, gradually losing the sense of freshness and mystery. Anyway, as the relationship between Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu became more and more familiar, her interest seemed to decrease.


    Qiu Tu knew this was a very dangerous signal.


    And he also knew that if he wanted to continue enjoying the benefits of being with someone as desirable as Tang Feifei, he would have to try some new tricks.


    Like his promotion to a Second Order Cataclysmic, which increased his strength, was sort of a new trick.


    And adding to his own mystery was another kind of trick....


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu then casually said, "Where I got this information from is definitely something I can''t tell you."


    "What I want to say is that what you consider secret might be nothing to me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s smug words, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but curve her lips into a smile.


    And the interest in her eyes when she looked at Qiu Tu suddenly intensified.


    Licking her lips, she said with a dangerous look, "It seems our Minister Qiu is truly extraordinary."


    "Not only has your strength improved, but you''ve even expanded your intelligence network."


    "After some time, you''re not going to take my position, are you?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed, unapologetically saying, "I''m not interested in your position."


    "What I''m eyeing is the position above you."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei was firstly stunned, then her look at Qiu Tu changed.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu gradually felt more confident.


    Since he met Tang Feifei that evening, he had been boasting and planting flags for a reason.


    The Emotional Fraud Manual [108 Ways to Enhance Affection] Article 27: A woman''s nature is to admire strength, so a meek man lacks sexual tension.


    For women, if a man is tamed and overly cautious in making conversation, afraid of angering her, he cannot spark their interest.


    A woman''s genes determine they will only admire the strong.


    So, even if you boast but say the wrong thing, you''re still more charming than if you hesitated a lot.


    Even if the decisions you make or actions you take are wrong, they''re still more appealing than giving the decision-making power to a woman.


    Even if taking her hand abruptly makes a woman feel rushed, it''s still more attractive than being afraid to even reach out.


    This is why many women like bad boys. That kind of innate confidence satisfies them.


    Furthermore, while learning this method, Qiu Tu also remembered a note: the stronger the woman, the more she admires strength.


    So, even powerful women may occasionally fancy a "little puppy" to adjust their weary mood, but they ultimately admire the strong more.


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei was clearly that of a "rich lady" and a "little puppy". S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although Qiu Tu had previously tried hard to "resist" to pique Tang Feifei''s interest,


    the huge gap between their strengths, positions, and family backgrounds still made Qiu Tu more like a "toy".


    Before, Qiu Tu had no way to change this situation, so he could only drag it out, enduring.


    But now, his position had been promoted to Deputy Minister, only two ranks below Tang Feifei, and his strength had risen to that of a Second Order Cataclysmic, barely catching her eye, so he definitely needed to change Tang Feifei''s impression of him.


    Therefore, he first made bold statements in front of Tang Feifei, then used his strength as a Second Order Cataclysmic to "attack" Tang Feifei. Now, he started to create a mysterious image.


    All this, was following the teachings of the Emotional Fraud Manual.


    And now, it seemed to be working well.


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu took advantage of his victory to continue the pursuit.


    He sat up from the bed and then continued to refresh his image in Tang Feifei''s mind.


    He said, "Additionally, Feifei, I feel that my strength is still somewhat weak."


    "Although I have been promoted to a Second Order Cataclysmic and became the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, and even established my own intelligence network...."


    "But... my personal strength is still lacking."


    "So...." Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei with earnest eyes and said, "....I want to learn martial arts!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was indeed shocked again.


    A golden glow began to appear in her eyes, dangerous yet enchanting.


    She looked at Qiu Tu as if a female leopard had set eyes on her prey and inquired, "We just had a fierce battle, aren''t you tired?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and shook his head, "I feel like I could fight another battle, so studying martial arts surely...."


    Before he could finish his words, Tang Feifei interrupted him, "Then... let''s have another battle."


    Qiu Tu: Huh?


    The golden glow in the depths of Tang Feifei''s eyes almost overflowed as she said, "Only real combat is the best teacher."


    "Don''t worry, I will make you both happy and knowledgeable."


    "This time, I will go all out."


    Qiu Tu: Eh?


    Somehow, Qiu Tu felt he might have gone too far.....


    ...


    And so, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei fought fiercely once again.


    This time, because he needed to learn martial techniques, the battle was somewhat different from before.


    Tang Feifei not only gave Qiu Tu some "mental arithmetic problems" but also gave him a few extremely vicious "fill-in-the-blank questions"....


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu''s fountain pen was almost out of ink that Tang Feifei, with her mouth and body covered in ink, finally let Qiu Tu go....


    After Qiu Tu fell asleep, Tang Feifei, who had been nestled in Qiu Tu''s arms, got up, crossed the room with her long legs and a stride as agile as a female leopard, and went to the second bedroom''s bathroom to wash up.


    Even as a Third Order Cataclysmic, it''s uncomfortable to sleep with something sticky on your body.


    After washing up, Tang Feifei wrapped herself in a white shirt, left the front half-open, revealing her full and elastic Yue Xiong, and then walked to the balcony.


    Resting her hands on the balcony rail, Tang Feifei gazed at the blue moon in the sky and seemed lost in thought.


    Tang Feifei was rather taken aback by Qiu Tu''s transformation today, it had to be said.


    As Qiu Tu had previously thought, Tang Feifei used to see Qiu Tu as nothing more than an interesting "toy."


    Although she hadn''t planned to cast him aside after using him, she merely thought about giving Qiu Tu some money after getting bored with him and arranging his future properly. That would end their time together without owing each other anything.


    And, perhaps everyone has a propensity for favoring the new over the old. So....as Qiu Tu agreed time and again to keep her company due to circumstances, her interest in Qiu Tu rapidly dwindled.


    She thought things would continue to develop like this. But today, everything changed.


    Qiu Tu presented himself before her in a way she had never imagined.


    It was the first time she seriously scrutinized this little man in front of her after breaking up with her X partner.


    Only then did she suddenly realize this little man had achieved a height in a very short period that was enough to catch her attention.


    A Deputy Director of the Political Department, ranked in the top 12 for power in the Investigation Bureau, and an important person in the top 40 of Xinjie City, was enough to warrant more than a few glances from Tang Feifei.


    And as a Second Order Cataclysmic¡ªone who, apart from his Cataclysmic ability, possessed no other powers¡ªQiu Tu had already proven his potential and strength.


    Add to that his enigmatic intelligence network, and Qiu Tu''s increasingly swelling ambition.


    And so, Tang Feifei genuinely began to take an interest in Qiu Tu....


    ''An intriguing little man....''


    ''Worth observing more.''


    With that in mind, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but recall the phone call she had with her second uncle who was far away at the Sanctuary....


    ''Let him first get through this tough spot, then assess his worth.''


    ''If he truly proves valuable, perhaps... the family would be very interested.''


    With this thought, Tang Feifei turned back to look in the direction of the bedroom, ''If he could really connect with the family.''


    ''That would be a mutually beneficial arrangement.''


    ''After all.... Without support from the Sanctuary, Deputy Director is the highest position that someone from the Planning Area could aspire to.''


    Thinking this way, Tang Feifei stood in silence for a moment, then moved towards the bedroom with her long legs.


    Since she was only wearing a shirt, her healthily tanned skin flashed between the hemlines, like a leopard hidden in the jungle ready for another round of hunting...


    ...


    [Threat in the Darkness (1.5 hours)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (1.5 days)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (2.5 days)]


    ...


    A silent night passed.


    Early the next day, Qiu Tu awoke from his sleep.


    It must be said that the physical condition of a Second Order Cataclysmic is formidable.


    In the past, Qiu Tu struggled to hold on and felt like his back would retire the next day.


    But now...he only felt a slight soreness.


    ''Hmph! Third Order Cataclysmics are nothing special!''


    As he built up his confidence internally, Qiu Tu climbed out of bed.


    Just like last time, the self-disciplined Tang Feifei had already woken up early and finished her morning exercise.


    She seemed unfazed by the significant physical exertion from the night before.


    If Qiu Tu hadn''t felt her sweat-soaked body, he might have thought he''d mistaken someone else for her last night.


    After greeting Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu took a bath and then put on a bathrobe Tang Feifei had bought for him before coming out.


    Taking the millet porridge that Tang Feifei handed to him, Qiu Tu took out his Communicator right in front of her and began making calls.


    The first call Qiu Tu made was to Cao Dabiao.


    When faced with Qiu Tu''s call, Cao Dabiao almost immediately picked up.


    After answering, Cao Dabiao''s flattering voice followed, "Brother Tu, you looking for me?"


    Qiu Tu stirred his millet porridge as he spoke, "Yes. Big Biao."


    "I have a task for you."


    "Gather all our people right now, arm them, and then assemble outside Director Tang''s house."


    "I have important business to attend to."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao paused briefly before asking hesitantly, "Chief...You''re not planning on apprehending the Deputy Director, are you?"


    Qiu Tu scolded jokingly, "What are you thinking of! Have I lost my mind to do such an extreme act?"


    Relieved by Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao patted his chest and chuckled, "Scared me for a second."


    "I was just saying the Chief and the Deputy Director get along so well, how could you possibly make a move on her."


    After speaking, he added, "Then, Chief, wait for me! I''m going to gather the people right now!"


    Qiu Tu grunted in response and then hung up the call.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu leisurely continued with his breakfast.


    Sitting across from him and eating her own breakfast, Tang Feifei leaned on her hand and watched him with interest. "You do seem very confident."


    "Don''t forget, today you have to catch Bai Yu as well as deal with the interference from Huang Shangzong''s confidant."


    ------


    Still 3 chapters with 10,000 words, haha. Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 292 - 242: Capturing Secretary Bai (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s reminder, Qiu Tu chuckled and pulled out a tissue to wipe his mouth, then said, "So what?"


    "Are Huang Shangzong''s confidants that formidable?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s retort, Tang Feifei nonchalantly stirred her millet porridge and said, "Huang Shangzong''s confidants aren''t considered formidable, but Huang Shangzong is."


    "Even a seventh-rank official waits at the Prime Minister''s gate. One should pay respect to Buddha even if not to the monks."


    "That confidant, when going out, represents not himself but Huang Shangzong."


    "So, be sure not to underestimate him...."


    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, said indifferently, "If Huang Shangzong''s confidants are so formidable, do they hold positions at the Sanctuary? Do they have ranks?"


    Tang Feifei replied, "They will have them soon."


    "Huang Shangzong is a committee member at the Sanctuary and cannot have his own independent office with ranked officials."


    "But once Dongye State is established and he becomes the Speaker, he will have the right to establish his own independent office with ranked officials."


    "For them, it''s just a matter of lacking a procedure."


    At Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu laughed with a hint of nonchalance, "It''s exactly his lack of procedure that I need."


    "Without that procedure, he''s nothing."


    Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a deep look, and refrained from further reminding him.


    After all, Huang Shangzong''s confidants can leverage the power of ranked officials even without a position, like Ji Chen or Commissioner Wang, after all.


    But Tang Feifei knew that if she could think of this, certainly Qiu Tu could as well.


    There was simply no need for her to remind him. She just had to wait and see.


    Therefore, breakfast was quickly finished.


    Not long after breakfast, Qiu Tu also received a call from Cao Dabiao.


    On the phone, Cao Dabiao had already assembled the team and was on his way to Tang Feifei''s location, estimating about 20 minutes to arrive.


    Qiu Tu acknowledged and hung up the phone. He did not rush but instead raised his head to look at the countdown hourglass in the upper left of his field of view.


    At some point, the countdown for "Threat in the Darkness" had only 50 minutes left.


    This meant that in 50 minutes, the crisis would completely erupt.


    This would be Qiu Tu''s first time directly confronting Huang Shangzong.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu took out the special communicator given to him by Tao Yaoyao and sent a message to a somewhat familiar number....


    .....


    Time ticked away second by second.


    20 minutes later, Cao Dabiao and Qiu Tu''s batch of confidants successfully reached the perimeter of Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Because Tang Feifei''s Security Team had returned that morning, Qiu Tu''s confidants did not directly enter the villa to find him but patiently waited outside.


    Possibly because the group was too dangerous, Tang Feifei''s Security Team members watched them warily, fearing they might barge into the villa....


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    A convoy of luxurious black cars slowly stopped at the entrance of the Investigation Bureau.


    After the cars halted, a woman dressed as a secretary hurriedly got out and then opened the door for the big shot in the backseat.


    A portly man with a bit of a double chin stepped out of the car.


    This was Commissioner Wang from Xinjie City''s Municipal Committee. His main responsibilities were household registration and municipal affairs, but he also had a say in some matters related to people''s livelihoods, like those handled by the Investigation Bureau.


    After stepping out of the car, Commissioner Wang gave a nod to the secretary, who promptly went around to the other side of the car and respectfully opened another door.


    As the door opened, a somewhat bookish-looking young man got out. The youth carried an air of arrogance, a self-content smile on his face, and when his gaze swept over the investigators coming and going from the Bureau, there seemed to be an inherent sense of superiority emanating from him.


    Upon seeing the young man, Commissioner Wang chuckled and said, "Advisor Wu, this is the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. Shall we go in and take a look?"


    After hearing Commissioner Wang''s words, Wu Zhi nodded politely and then said with a smile, "Sure."


    Having said that, he didn''t even wait for Commissioner Wang to lead the way; instead, he started walking towards the Investigation Bureau on his own.


    Seeing this, Commissioner Wang had no choice but to walk briskly to catch up.


    But this turn of events made the entourage, which was supposed to be led by Commissioner Wang, seem as if it was led by him instead.


    Entering the Investigation Bureau, Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi was already waiting in the lobby.


    As a Commissioner from the Municipal Committee, theoretically on the same level as a Deputy Director, Yu Zhengyi''s presence to receive them was proper.


    Therefore, as soon as he saw Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang hastened his steps, shook hands with him, and said, "Director Yu, I came specially to introduce Advisor Wu for a visit."


    ```


    "As for Counselor Wu, he came here on a mission."


    "You must cooperate fully."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s words, Yu Zhengyi''s face was also filled with smiles. He looked at Wu Zhi and reached out proactively, saying, "Understood, understood. If there''s anything we need to do, just say the word, Counselor Wu."


    Wu Zhi shook hands with Yu Zhengyi, and then he spoke somewhat coolly, "Actually, there is indeed something I need your bureau''s help with."


    He said, "I would like to review all the case files, recordings, and video materials handled by Minister Qiu Tu."


    "Additionally, I would like to meet with the victims and suspects of the [August 19 Pharmacy Robbery Case] and the [Qin Family Treason Case]."


    "Would that be convenient?"


    Yu Zhengyi was clearly already aware of Wu Zhi''s purpose for coming, so he replied without hesitation, "Of course, that''s no problem."


    At this, Wu Zhi seemed to remember something and added, "Right, as I recall, Minister Qiu''s former boss was Zheng Tao, right? He''s now the Deputy Division Chief at the Public Security Bureau, I believe."


    "Would it be possible for me to meet with him?"


    This time, Yu Zhengyi hesitated briefly but still agreed, "No problem. I''ll notify Director Zheng in a moment."


    As they talked, they arrived at the elevator.


    The elevator doors slowly opened, and they walked in, laughing and talking.


    Leaving only the many curious lower-level agents in the lobby watching their retreating figures, wondering what was happening...


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    As soon as Wu Zhi arrived at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu also left Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Arriving at the villa''s perimeter, Qiu Tu saw the core team he had in this world.


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, Li Xian... and several dozen other mid-senior level agents, even the usually lazy Song Qing was there.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Cao Dabiao also scurried over.


    He said with a sheepish grin, "Sir, everyone''s here. Where shall we head next?"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu also glanced over everyone present.


    Then, instead of answering Cao Dabiao''s question, he said, "Everyone, as early as yesterday, after I officially accepted the position of Deputy Chief of the Political Department, I transferred all of your names from the Action Division to the Inspection Department."


    "The main task of the Inspection Department is to oversee officials at all levels in Xinjie City, to prevent them from being corrupt and lawless, from betraying the Sanctuary, from betraying humanity."


    "We could be considered the Sanctuary system''s last line of defense."


    "As long as we are here, we can at least guarantee that the management layer of Xinjie City won''t have major issues."


    Qiu Tu first used his inspiring words to establish a lofty ideal for his confidants present, to enhance their sense of group honor and self-confidence.


    And seeing that his confidants were all moved, Qiu Tu then shifted his tone and continued, "But now, one of Xinjie City''s high-level officials has violated the laws of the Sanctuary, has betrayed the trust of the Sanctuary."


    "What should we do?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the astute ones like Cao Dabiao were still deep in thought, while the simple-minded girl Song Qing, who only thought about finishing work, was the first to shout out, "Apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    "Yes, apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    "Apprehend and bring him to justice!"


    With Song Qing leading, the chant of the confidants quickly became a chorus.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly. Then he said, "Good! Well spoken, let us move out now!"


    With that, Qiu Tu began assigning tasks.


    He divided his agents into three teams: one to disarm Secretary Bai''s Security Team, one to follow him into the villa to control Secretary Bai, and another to secure the perimeter and prevent any accidents.


    And it was only then that everyone realized who Qiu Tu intended to arrest ¨C Secretary Bai.


    However, a loyalty rating of seventy to eighty points, along with Qiu Tu''s morale-boosting speech, made them fearless.


    So, in just a short while after they were assigned their tasks, the arrest mission officially began.


    Secretary Bai''s villa wasn''t far from Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Thus, it only took a few minutes for the group to arrive at Secretary Bai''s villa.


    The first team drew their guns and, with the arrest warrant, effortlessly disarmed Secretary Bai''s Security Team, escorting them to one side.


    The third team spread out around the villa as planned, setting up a security perimeter to prevent outside disturbance.


    As for the second team, they followed Qiu Tu''s lead, charging straight into the villa, ready to arrest Secretary Bai...


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 Chapter 293 - 243: Shocking the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    A day had passed, and as Qiu Tu once again entered the villa, his state of mind was completely different.


    When he came yesterday, Qiu Tu''s heart was uneasy. He harbored concerns about his own safety and curiosity about whether Secretary Bai truly was an Evil God Cultist.


    But today, Qiu Tu''s mood was one of unmatched tranquility.


    Leading his subordinates into Secretary Bai''s villa, the grass on the perimeter was trampled down by the group''s direct approach.


    The lawn, which originally looked exceptionally fresh and comfortable, became messy and disorderly, just like this soon-to-collapse estate.


    Upon entering the interior of the villa, internal guards immediately came down after hearing the noise.


    Two of Secretary Bai''s confidant detectives stood at the door, startled by the sight of the imposing crowd.


    But since their job was to protect Secretary Bai, the two exchanged glances and quickly extended one hand forward, palm facing out, making a "prohibitory" gesture.


    "This is the villa of Bai Yu, head of the Administrative Office. Which department are you from?"


    During this exchange, one of the detectives recognized Qiu Tu and also noticed the black uniform representing the Political Department worn by the group.


    His complexion changed, and he quickly tugged at the detective beside him, wanting to whisper a few words.


    However, at this moment, Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian, who were beside Qiu Tu, took decisive steps forward, surpassing Qiu Tu''s position, and in unison drew out silver handcuffs, promptly cuffing the outsretched hands of the two detectives!


    The two detectives were clearly startled and quickly exclaimed, "What are you doing!"


    Before they could finish speaking, Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian snickered, yanked the handcuffs, and with a swift maneuver, pulled the two men aside.


    The actions of the four were very quick; from the detectives extending their hands to stop them, to Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian subduing the pair, it had taken scarcely two or three seconds.


    So when Qiu Tu, followed by his confidants, approached, the entrance was already unobstructed.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t even glance at the two subdued detectives and stepped over the threshold, walking straight into the outer hall of the villa.


    In the outer hall, Secretary Bai was sitting at the dining table, eating breakfast.


    Although his position in the Investigation Bureau was as Yan Chen''s secretary and house steward, their high statuses within the Bureau allowed them not to serve and accompany Yan Chen like those personal or confidential secretaries would generally have to.


    Secretary Bai''s breakfast was not lavish: a piece of bread, a fried egg, and a glass of milk.


    While eating, a maid stood silently by his side, waiting on him, as he simultaneously dined and read the newspaper.


    Hearing the clamorous footsteps intruding his villa, he didn''t seem surprised, his gaze still fixed on the newspaper.


    Only when Qiu Tu drew near did he lift his glass of milk, sipped it lightly, and then, with a hint of emotion, said, "Director Tang really thinks highly of you."


    "To have completed the formalities for you in such a short amount of time."


    As he said this, he put down the newspaper and extended his hand toward Qiu Tu, "Let me see the Authorization Order."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s request, Qiu Tu straightaway took out the copy of the Authorization Order that Tang Jiancha had faxed over last night and put it in Secretary Bai''s hand.


    Secretary Bai took the Authorization Order, looked it over carefully, and then smilingly handed it back to Qiu Tu.


    After that, he picked up a piece of silk white handkerchief to wipe his mouth, put it down, and then extended both hands cordially towards Qiu Tu, ever the epitome of grace.


    All his actions were just as graceful as they had been over a year ago when he processed Qiu Tu''s entry paperwork, as calm and composed as ever.


    Watching him, images of all the moments spent with Secretary Bai seemed to flash before Qiu Tu''s eyes. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He looked intently at Secretary Bai for a moment before finally taking the silver handcuffs passed to him by Song Qing.


    "Click!"


    With that sound, Qiu Tu cuffed the silver handcuffs onto Secretary Bai''s wrists, and the second of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau was apprehended...


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment, yet Secretary Bai''s expression remained serene, as if he had seen through all the vicissitudes of life...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the same time as Secretary Bai''s arrest,


    In a conference room on the ninth floor of the Investigation Bureau, Wu Zhi, a confidant of Huang Shangzong, was intricately reviewing all the case materials and records handled by Qiu Tu over the past year.


    He seemed to possess some strong rapid-reading or memorization ability.


    Despite holding textual documents, a projector was set up on the table, with a tape recorder placed on his right-hand side.


    He was doing just that, simultaneously perusing the textual materials, watching the video footage, and listening to the audio recordings, as all three lines of investigation progressed in parallel.


    At his side, Commissioner Wang and Deputy Director Yu were quietly exchanging glances.


    Both being among the top 15 heavyweights in Xinjie City, they were certainly acquainted with each other. Though not frequently socializing in private, they would occasionally exchange a few words.


    Now that there was no one else in the room, they surreptitiously communicated with each other.


    From their exchange of looks, it was clear they harbored doubts about Wu Zhi''s ability to multitask so adeptly, simultaneously reading, watching, and listening.


    Though Huang Shangzong was an important figure in the Sanctuary, with a retinue of capable followers, such an exaggerated method of investigation was somewhat beyond their belief.


    As they were entertaining these thoughts, suddenly, Wu Zhi''s hands also began to move.


    His right hand holding a red pen, he swiftly circled several segments in the textual documents.


    Then, his left hand hit the pause button on the projector, jotting down a few numbers onto a blank sheet of paper, as if recording the timestamps of problematic footage.


    Seeing this, Commissioner Wang and Yu Zhengyi couldn''t help but glance at each other before turning their attention back to Wu Zhi.


    And Wu Zhi, as if oblivious to their stares, began to write and draw swiftly.


    His movements were quick, and in just about ten minutes, he had filled several pages with writing, encircling numerous details in many interrogation records.


    Upon seeing this, Yu Zhengyi sneaked a peek at Wu Zhi''s notes and realized that while he couldn''t understand the textual part, the circled sections pertained to minor details.


    Some related to Qiu Tu''s suspected irregularities; others to gaps in Qiu Tu''s documentation, relying on confessions for verdicts; and yet more indicated Qiu Tu''s careless clerical work, suggesting a tendency to determine guilt before finding evidence....


    Such issues were actually present in all departments of the Investigation Bureau: after all, the Planning Area had only recently been brought under the control of the Sanctuary, with imperfect laws, and most cases were handled expediently by the Bureau.


    Moreover, these issues weren''t exclusive to Xinjie City; other Planning Area cities faced them as well.


    But... these were unwritten rules that were not to be openly discussed. If the Sanctuary''s laws were strictly enforced, Qiu Tu would indeed be guilty of serious violations.


    Once Qiu Tu was deemed in violation, he would immediately be stripped of his duties and work.


    And without his position, Qiu Tu''s "golden body" would be shattered, and then all those who bore grudges against him or were dissatisfied with him would pile on.


    Whether by offering clues or testimony, or even... framing and smearing. No one would want to see Qiu Tu rise again.


    After a few glances to understand Wu Zhi''s approach, Yu Zhengyi nodded slightly.


    Although Wu Zhi''s method was not particularly delicate, it had the advantage of being secure and systematically thorough.


    Particularly when combined with his status as a confidant of Huang Shangzong, and Commissioner Wang, who theoretically had the authority to propose suggestions about the Bureau''s affairs. Added to that was Yan Chen''s tacit cooperation, shutting one eye. Qiu Tu''s fate seemed almost impossible to reverse.


    At that moment, as he was contemplating this,


    suddenly, someone knocked "bang bang bang" on the office door.


    As the Deputy Director, it was natural for Yu Zhengyi to respond, so he said in a deep voice, "Come in."


    At the sound of Yu Zhengyi''s voice, the door to the office was pushed open from the outside, and an investigator rushed in hastily.


    Seeing his appearance, Yu Zhengyi''s expression darkened slightly, and he said coldly, "What''s the hurry? Has the sky fallen?"


    "I didn''t expect Commissioner Wang and Counselor Wu to be here. What a spectacle!"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, the investigator, looking embarrassed, slowed his pace and then quickly approached Yu Zhengyi.


    Once in front of Yu Zhengyi, he first glanced at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, then leaned towards Yu Zhengyi and whispered, "Director, there''s been a problem."


    "Qiu Tu didn''t come to work today, so when we took people to the Political Department, we couldn''t control him."


    "After that, we made inquiries from various sources and found out... it''s not just that he didn''t show up, he even took all his confidants with him."


    Upon hearing this, Yu Zhengyi''s brow furrowed deeply. The high echelons of the Investigation Bureau all knew that Qiu Tu had dozens of confidant investigators under his command. It was a considerable force.


    So he couldn''t help but ask, "What is he doing taking so many people with him?"


    The investigator whispered, "He... he has taken Secretary Bai."


    "What?!" On hearing the investigator''s words, Yu Zhengyi, who had just been advising the investigator to remain calm, was so startled he almost stood up from his chair!


    -------


    Chapter three, 10,000 words, ha. Vote for Monthly Tickets! Continuing with daily 10k tomorrow!

 Chapter 294 - 244: Framing and Entrapment (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Yu Zhengyi''s surprise was so astonishing that it echoed throughout the entire office, causing Wu Zhi to involuntarily pause in his actions and drawing Commissioner Wang''s gaze as well.


    In fact, when that investigator had walked in moments earlier, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi had been busy with their own tasks, yet part of their attention had been on him.


    This led to them vaguely hearing a few phrases despite the investigator''s low voice.


    Phrases like "Qiu Tu wasn''t restrained," "took away confidant," "Secretary Bai"...and so on.


    But because they missed some crucial information, they were unable to piece together the whole story, so seeing Yu Zhengyi''s shock made them both look over in curiosity.


    Compared to Wu Zhi, Commissioner Wang was obviously more familiar with Yu Zhengyi, so he asked with a chuckle, "Director Yu, what happened?"


    At that moment, Yu Zhengyi realized he had lost his composure.


    However, this matter was an internal affair of the Investigation Bureau and likely involved some secrets.


    So, even though he knew they would find out sooner or later, he still chose to buy time at the outset.


    He forced a laugh and said, "Nothing, nothing at all."


    "It''s just a little mishap in one of the divisions. I need to sort it out now."


    After speaking, he turned to the secretary who had been standing by his side and said, "Xiao Zhang, I''m stepping out for a moment."


    "Assist Commissioner Wang and Advisor Wu here."


    "Fulfill any requests they might have, understand?"


    Director Yu''s secretary quickly bowed and responded, "Yes, Director."


    Seeing this, Yu Zhengyi smiled at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, rose to his feet, and said, "Well then, I need to attend to something urgently, please excuse me, gentlemen."


    After finishing, Yu Zhengyi didn''t even wait for the reactions of Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi; he promptly strode out of the conference room.


    The investigator who had come to report earlier, seeing this, gave everyone an awkward smile and hastily followed out.


    Witnessing the scene, Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang exchanged glances. Just as they were about to quietly confer, Director Yu''s secretary suddenly approached and asked softly, "Commissioner Wang, Advisor Wu, if there is anything you need, please instruct me."


    Hearing this, Wu Zhi thought for a moment, then said, "Please check with the Public Security Bureau for me. The Deputy Division Chief Zheng, whom I''ve been hoping to meet since I entered the Investigation Bureau, why hasn''t he arrived?"


    "Has something happened?"


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, the secretary promptly nodded, then pulled out a communicator and, in front of Wu Zhi, began to make a call....


    Meanwhile, Zheng Tao had indeed encountered some issues. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In fact, since learning this morning that Wu Zhi wanted to see him, he had been indecisive.


    He had discreetly approached Guan Weihua, the Chief of the Public Security Bureau, to inquire about Wu Zhi''s background.


    Upon discovering that Wu Zhi was a confidant of a high-profile individual and suspected of coming to deal with Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao felt tempted, to tell the truth.


    However, it''s important to know that he wasn''t struggling alone¡ªhe was a follower of Larilo.


    Qiu Tu was an important target for Larilo, to the extent that Zheng Tao had even sent his wife to go undercover.


    Therefore, after returning to his office, he didn''t act rashly but made a call to his direct superior: Secretary Bai.


    But now....Secretary Bai''s phone couldn''t be reached no matter what.


    Under such circumstances, Zheng Tao had no choice but to hold his position and patiently wait for Secretary Bai to contact him.


    But as he waited... came the news of Secretary Bai''s arrest.


    There are no secrets within the Investigation Bureau, and since Qiu Tu''s actions weren''t kept confidential, as soon as Qiu Tu disarmed Secretary Bai''s security squad and barged into Bai''s villa, some of the middle and senior staff at the Bureau began receiving the news.


    They were shocked by Qiu Tu''s audacity, and they were also inquiring why Bai was arrested.


    This caused the news to slowly leak out, and thus, Zheng Tao learned of it as well.


    Truth be told, at the moment he heard the news, Zheng Tao felt despair.


    Others might not know what crime Secretary Bai had committed, but he did!


    Colluding with an Evil God, a crime against humanity!


    And what''s more.... Secretary Bai was his direct contact. Now that Bai had been arrested, what if he was also exposed?


    So, for a time, Zheng Tao''s mind was in turmoil, feeling utterly at a loss....


    Then, at that moment.


    Suddenly, the landline phone on his desk began to ring.


    "Ring, ring, ring!" The sharp ringing in the office was exceptionally clear, startling Zheng Tao.


    Zheng Tao jolted back to reality, momentarily bewildered, and then his eyes finally landed on the landline phone.


    He hesitated for a short while before slowly reaching his hand out, inch by inch, toward it.


    "Ring, ring, ring...."


    The landline rang incessantly.


    Zheng Tao''s facial expression changed. But eventually, he placed his hand on it.


    Picking up the handset, Zheng Tao tried to calm himself, "This is Zheng Tao, may I ask who''s speaking?"


    A man''s voice came through the receiver, "Director Zheng, good day, I''m the secretary of Director Yu. Half an hour ago, I invited you on behalf of Commissioner Wang and Advisor Wu to meet with us."


    "You agreed, but you haven''t arrived yet. So, I''m calling to inquire about your whereabouts. Have you been held up by something? Do we need to wait a bit longer for you?"


    Upon hearing Secretary Yu Zhengyi''s words, Zheng Tao instinctively wanted to refuse directly¡ªafter all, he was already overwhelmed and really had no time to deal with Wu Zhi and Qiu Tu''s matters.


    However, just when he thought of "Qiu Tu," Zheng Tao paused for a moment, then an idea struck him.


    Yes... the person who had arrested his line manager, Secretary Bai, was Qiu Tu.


    And Wu Zhi was also after Qiu Tu.


    If... he could help Wu Zhi take down Qiu Tu, wouldn''t he be able to save Secretary Bai and extricate himself as well?


    With this thought, Zheng Tao hardened his heart!


    He decided that once he was in front of Wu Zhi, he would dramatize Qiu Tu''s issues, even... frame him!


    In life and death situations, morality doesn''t count for much...


    With that in mind, he responded, "Ah, hello, Secretary Zhang. There was a bit of an issue in the office just now, which caused some delay."


    "I''ll be there now."


    After speaking, he hung up the phone, stood up, and prepared to meet with Wu Zhi on the 12th floor.


    Yet just as he was about to get up, suddenly, the door of his office was pushed open from the outside.


    Zheng Tao frowned and looked towards the newcomer.


    The visitor was his wife, Tan Huimin.


    Seeing Tan Huimin, Zheng Tao felt a surge of irritation.


    He ignored her desire to chat and simply dropped a line, "I have an urgent matter to attend to right now and need to leave first."


    "You help me clean up the office."


    After finishing, he adjusted his uniform and left the office.


    Tan Huimin watched his hurried figure, stretched her hand out as if wanting to stop him for a chat, but her hand, raised in the air, ultimately... was lowered.


    Sighing deeply, Tan Huimin closed the door of the office and began cleaning Zheng Tao''s office...


    Taking the elevator, Zheng Tao swiftly reached the 12th floor.


    Arriving at the conference room on the 12th floor, Zheng Tao took a deep breath and then knocked on the door.


    A middle-aged man''s voice from inside the room called out, "Come in."


    Zheng Tao pushed open the door of the conference room and saw four people inside.


    Two were sitting and two were standing.


    The two sitting people, one was a paunchy middle-aged man, the other was a young man with pride on his face.


    Although Zheng Tao had not met the two men before, with just a brief moment of thought, he guessed that the middle-aged man was Commissioner Wang, and the prideful young man was Wu Zhi.


    The standing ones were obviously the secretaries of Commissioner Wang and Director Yu.


    With a quick mental turn to recognize everyone in the room, Zheng Tao squeezed out a smile towards them and said, "Commissioner Wang, Advisor Wu."


    Zheng Tao''s position was not low, so upon seeing him, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi did not put on airs, and they each got up to shake hands with Zheng Tao.


    After briefly getting acquainted, the three began discussing Qiu Tu''s situation.


    Faced with this lone opportunity for a desperate counterattack, Zheng Tao certainly didn''t let it pass by.


    He spoke solemnly, exaggerating the details of Qiu Tu''s work in the Interrogation Section.


    Things like disrespecting superiors, arriving late, leaving early, and messing around in romantic relationships were all mentioned.


    But... although Qiu had always been irresponsible, he seldom broke the rules. No matter how much Zheng Tao exaggerated, Wu Zhi''s expression hardly changed.


    Seeing this, Zheng Tao bit the bullet and resorted to framing and slander.


    He looked at Wu Zhi and said, "Advisor Wu, the truth is... Qiu Tu''s mistakes are far worse than what I''ve just mentioned."


    "In the time he''s worked in the Interrogation Section... he actually silenced important prisoners, accepted bribes from prisoners'' families, and facilitated the escape of prisoners."


    ----


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 Chapter 295 - 245: Shooting Huang Shangzongs Confidant! (10,000-word Appeal for Subscriptions!)

    Hearing Zheng Tao''s words, Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang exchanged a glance, their eyes lighting up momentarily.


    Unable to help himself, Wu Zhi said, "Director Zheng, please elaborate on these incidents."


    "It''s very likely that they will greatly assist my investigation."


    Upon hearing Wu Zhi''s request, Zheng Tao heaved a sigh of relief, and quickly relayed the incriminating evidence he had concocted on his way here.


    Although Zheng Tao had some issues with his character, his capabilities were unquestionable¡ªthe cases handled by the Interrogation Section over the past year were almost all memorized by him.


    He was acutely aware of which cases had doubts, which had issues, and which weren''t completely by the book.


    Therefore, he selected only two cases that occurred during Qiu Tu''s tenure, subtly altering some details to frame Qiu Tu.


    His reasoning was clear as well: Wu Zhi''s arrival was precisely to take down Qiu Tu.


    Thus, whether what he said was true or false, it would eventually be regarded as "true."


    Because, once Qiu Tu was taken down, there was no coming back.


    Moreover, the most important thing was... if he didn''t manage to take down Qiu Tu and rescue Secretary Bai, he might be the one to be taken down instead.


    Hence, although such framing wouldn''t stand up to scrutiny, it... didn''t matter. He no longer cared.


    While Zheng Tao was thinking this, Wu Zhi swiftly wrote up an interrogation record.


    After checking it over, Wu Zhi handed it to Zheng Tao, "Director Zheng, please verify this. If there''s no issue, please sign your name."


    Upon hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Zheng Tao briefly checked to ensure that his framing wasn''t diluted, then nonchalantly signed his name.


    Seeing Zheng Tao sign, Wu Zhi visibly relaxed.


    Although he was a confidant of Huang Shangzong and deeply trusted by him, Huang Shangzong had more than one confidant.


    Therefore, while he could have easily concocted an excuse to take down Qiu Tu, it would have fulfilled his mission but planted seeds of future trouble.


    So, he hoped that everything done was as legitimate as possible. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now that Zheng Tao had signed the testimony, it signified his willingness to take responsibility for it.


    Thus, he had adequate reason to eliminate Qiu Tu once and for all.


    And even if the testimony was proven problematic later, by then everything would have been settled, beyond rectification.


    At worst, he could take Zheng Tao down later and interrogate him as to why he gave false testimony.


    With this in mind, Wu Zhi finally allowed a confident smile to spread across his face.


    Then, he turned to Commissioner Wang and asked, "Commissioner Wang, now that we have a plethora of leads and evidence, should we not meet with Qiu Tu?"


    "See what he has to say?"


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Commissioner Wang responded with a chuckle, "No problem. I believe it''s indeed time."


    With that, Commissioner Wang addressed the secretary of Yu Zhengyi, who had been waiting on the side, "Secretary Zhang, do you think we can arrange a meeting with Qiu Tu now?"


    Secretary Zhang could be counted as one who had been involved in the investigation from the start.


    He was aware of what exactly Wu Zhi wanted to do.


    So, when he heard Zheng Tao''s attempt to frame Qiu Tu, he knew that "it was all over" for Qiu Tu.


    No matter whether Zheng Tao was telling the truth or lies, Zheng Tao was ready to be the knife that struck at Qiu Tu.


    Thus, he didn''t say anything in Qiu Tu''s defense, only smiling and saying, "I''ll contact Minister Qiu right away."


    After speaking, he took out his communicator and began calling Qiu Tu.


    Whether Qiu Tu was too busy with a case to check his phone, or deliberately ignoring the calls, it was uncertain. But several calls went unanswered, sinking like stones without any response.


    This gradually tested the patience of both Wu Zhi and Commissioner Wang.


    It was precisely at this moment that the conference room door was pushed open from the outside.


    Ji Chen entered from outside.


    He looked at those present, and then said, "Commissioner Wang, Wu Counselor. I''ve just received intelligence that this morning, without any authorization, Qiu Tu forcibly disarmed Secretary Bai''s security team and stormed into Secretary Bai''s villa, arresting Secretary Bai."


    "Now, he''s not answering calls or replying to messages under the pretext of handling a case."


    "Therefore, I suggest, perhaps we should visit Secretary Bai''s villa to see what exactly is going on?"


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s suggestion, Wu Zhi hesitated for a moment but finally agreed.


    After all, he was aware of the idiom ''The longer the night lasts, the more dreams will occur.'' Now that he had acquired Qiu Tu''s ''evidence'' of guilt, he could dismiss Qiu Tu from his position at any time and bring him back for investigation.


    If by giving Qiu Tu time to prepare, Qiu Tu found a way to counterattack, it would lead to a host of problems later on.


    So, thinking along these lines, he didn''t hesitate any longer. He stood up and said to Ji Chen, "Okay, let''s go then."


    A convoy of vehicles grandly set out toward Secretary Bai''s villa.


    On the way, Wu Zhi seemed to remember something, and spoke to Ji Chen, who was sitting in the passenger seat, "I originally intended to visit Director Yan today."


    "But I heard he caught a cold last night and took the day off to rest. That''s why I didn''t go to see him."


    Hearing Wu Zhi''s words, Ji Chen chuckled and replied, "Counselor Wu is too polite. The Bureau Chief really isn''t feeling well today. But he also instructed me to fully cooperate with your work."


    "So please be at ease, the Bureau Chief understands everything."


    After hearing what Ji Chen said, Wu Zhi couldn''t help but smile.


    The motorcade moved imposingly through half of the city to the villas of the Investigation Bureau''s high-ranking officials, to Secretary Bai''s villa.


    Indeed, this place had already been taken over by Qiu Tu''s confidants.


    Chen Feng, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and a dozen other agents in Political Department''s black uniforms guarded every exit of the villa, forbidding anyone from entering or leaving it.


    Yet when they saw the motorcade, they exchanged glances and bravely stepped forward to intercept them, demanding the vehicles to stop.


    When they were stopped, Ji Chen rolled down the window, and then shouted to Chen Feng, "Chen Feng! Take a good look at who I am!"


    "Make way!"


    Hearing his words, Chen Feng coldly replied, "Director Ji, the Inspection Department of the Political Department is handling a case. What is an Interrogation Section director like you doing here?"


    "Furthermore, when has your Interrogation Section had the authority to order us around in the Inspection Department?"


    After hearing Chen Feng''s unabashed rebuttal, Ji Chen''s face turned from red to white.


    But he knew that arguing for the sake of arguing was pointless right now. The priority was to deceive Qiu Tu into coming out.


    Thus, he skipped over the topic and went on to say, "I won''t argue about these things with you."


    "I''m here with an important guest to meet with Minister Qiu. Please ask him to come out."


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Chen Feng didn''t continue to confront him but instead said, "All right, I''ll go in and let him know."


    As he spoke, he gestured to the other agents to keep a watchful eye, and then he turned around to notify those in the villa.


    Seeing this, Wu Zhi, who was in the back seat of the car, snorted coldly and remarked, "This Qiu Tu might not hold a high position, but he sure puts on a grand display."


    Commissioner Wang played along with a smile, "After all, he is the deputy of the Political Department. His power is immense. It''s normal to have such a grand setup."


    This comment, on the surface, seemed explanatory, but on closer inspection, it carried a sarcastic undertone.


    And so, while playfully mocking Qiu Tu, they waited for about five or six minutes.


    Finally, just when they were becoming impatient, Qiu Tu, guarded by several confidants, slowly walked out from the villa.


    Qiu Tu, being naturally tall and handsomely imposing, now appeared even more domineering with the aura of immense power as he appeared with his confidants.


    Seeing Qiu Tu emerge, they all got out of the car.


    As a member of the Investigation Bureau, Ji Chen took the initiative and said, "Qiu Tu, I have come because an esteemed guest wishes to meet with you."


    Hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu, as if he hadn''t noticed anything unusual, smiled and glanced at Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi, cupping his hands, "I apologize for being busy with matters here and making the distinguished guests wait."


    After that, Qiu Tu turned to Ji Chen and said, "Director Ji, would you mind making the introductions?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu acting so normally, all three of them relaxed a bit inside.


    After all, no one wanted a direct confrontation to occur while the opposition was still armed with dozens of guns.


    Being able to peacefully deceive Qiu Tu into getting on the car or lure him back to the bureau for a bloodless arrest was certainly preferable to forcibly taking him away while he held great power.


    Thus, they continued to play along with the act.


    Director Ji pointed to Commissioner Wang and introduced him, "This is Commissioner Wang from the City Hall, mainly in charge of registry and civil affairs."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu extended his hand to Commissioner Wang, "I have seen Commissioner Wang."


    Seeing this, Director Ji then pointed to Wu Zhi and was about to introduce him, when¡­


    "Bang!"


    Before he could finish speaking, a gunshot rang out.


    Blood splattered, Wu Zhi''s eyes bulged, and a bullet hole suddenly appeared on the side of his head, then he slowly collapsed to the ground...


    ------

 Chapter 296 - 246: Qiu Tu Has Made a Name for Himself! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    The incident happened too suddenly.


    At the time, Qiu Tu was being led by Ji Chen, walking up to Wu Zhi. The three of them formed a triangle.


    So when Wu Zhi''s head exploded, and blood burst forth, splattering both Qiu Tu and Ji Chen in the face.


    At that moment, time seemed to slow down, and a ringing filled the ears of everyone present.


    The brains of all who witnessed this scene were buzzing, leaving their minds blank.


    Qiu Tu, Ji Chen, Commissioner Wang, and others struggled to turn their heads toward the direction the gunshot had come from.


    But then, two more shots rang out ¨C "Bang! Bang!"


    Two bullets whistled towards Qiu Tu!


    At that moment, time seemed to resume its normal flow.


    Amidst the screams of the crowd, chaos erupted. Commissioner Wang, with his protruding belly, moved with a speed that did not seem to fit his body, diving behind the car for cover.


    He was one of the quick responders; most of the people he brought scattered and fled.


    By comparison, the investigators from the Investigation Bureau reacted much better.


    The guards accompanying him and Ji Chen all evaded immediately, drew their guns, and started looking for the enemy.


    As for Qiu Tu''s confidants, they probably behaved most oddly: not one of them took cover, instead, they all rushed towards Qiu Tu with eyes split wide in fury!


    After all, the assassin hadn''t merely killed Wu Zhi, he had also fired two shots at Qiu Tu!


    The whole event happened so suddenly that even Qiu Tu himself hadn''t "reacted".


    By the time he did react, Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu had already rushed to his front, one ahead of the other!


    Then, two muffled "Bang!" "Bang!" sounds were heard.


    Two blooms of blood burst from Chen Feng''s shoulder and right chest.


    The assassin, perhaps confident in striking his target, saw Chen Feng block the shots and did not hesitate to fire several more rounds in Qiu Tu''s direction!


    It was then that people finally began to react, switching off safeties to retaliate!


    But as they aimed their guns in the direction of the gunshots, they shockingly realized... there was no sign of the enemy!


    The initial gunshot had been very close, only a few meters away from Qiu Tu, Wu Zhi, and Ji Chen.


    And the subsequent shots, although moving, were... also nearby.


    Yet now, as they searched for the enemy, they couldn''t find anyone?


    Could the enemy be invisible? Or some kind of ghost?!


    While everyone was somewhat disoriented by the sudden event, Qiu Tu, holding the injured Chen Feng who had fallen to the ground, shouted, "Lay down cover fire! Cover fire!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, his confidants finally snapped to attention and hurriedly began firing a barrage at the direction from where the gunshots came.


    This tactic worked. Suddenly, blood sprayed from a shadow not far from the crowd, followed by a muffled groan from someone there.


    ```


    Seeing this, Song Qing, who had just been scared half to death, quickly cried out in alarm, "There! There!"


    Upon hearing Song Qing''s directions, even more bullets were discharged into that shadow!


    However, this time everyone''s luck was not so good; despite firing many shots, they did not hit the enemy again.


    And that invisible enemy, perhaps due to the injury, did not attack anymore.


    Seizing the lull in the battle, Qiu Tu propped up Chen Feng and hid behind the car, then directed the others to take cover while remaining on guard.


    Like this, the group kept a vigilant watch over the battlefield for over ten minutes, and seeing that the enemy really didn''t reappear, they gradually started to breathe easier.


    After all, no one wanted to face such an unpredictable and invisible enemy.


    It was at this moment, suddenly, cries of anguish erupted from the battlefield, "Advisor Wu! Advisor Wu! Are you alright?"


    Accompanied by the wailing, Commissioner Wang crawled out from behind the car and then ran to Wu Zhi''s body.


    The incident had happened so suddenly that Wu Zhi was shot in the head, and everyone''s first reaction was to take cover, paying him no mind.


    Even later, when the detectives were shooting, they had avoided his body, preventing any further harm.


    But now that over ten minutes had passed, not even a divine doctor could save someone with a bullet through the brain.


    So, when Commissioner Wang picked up Wu Zhi, his body was already completely cold....


    At this moment, his eyes were still wide open, his face filled with disbelief.


    Clearly, even in the last moment of his life, he couldn''t comprehend why he had to die here.


    After all, although not nobly born, he was a native resident of the Sanctuary, with Sanctuary status. Distinguished in youth and esteemed by such an influential figure as Huang Shangzong.


    Moreover, with Huang Shangzong not only serving as a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council but also appointed as a Senior Frontier Official,


    everyone¡ªhimself included, as well as those who knew him¡ªbelieved his future was boundless!


    Even though he hadn''t aspired to reach a position like Huang Shangzong''s, he had dreamt of becoming the head of the Investigation Bureau and being influential in a city.


    Coming to Xinjie City this time, in his view, was just the beginning of his career. All he needed was to get rid of Qiu Tu, and a bright future awaited him.


    But now.... who would have thought he''d die here, right after obtaining some of Qiu Tu''s incriminating evidence, without even having exchanged a word with Qiu Tu?!


    Who was so daring? To ignore the wrath of Commissioner Huang Shangzong, to dare assassinate him¡ªthe ''special envoy'' charged with such an important mission?!


    Perhaps because of the many questions and unwillingness he had before dying, Wu Zhi''s eyes remained unblinking, glaring furiously at the heavens until his last breath....


    At that point, hearing Commissioner Wang''s crying, Ji Chen, who belatedly realized Wu Zhi had been shot, changed color and quickly strode over as well.


    Being from the Investigation Bureau after all, and with some experience in case handling, he merely touched Wu Zhi''s wrist to know it was beyond hope.


    ''This is bad....'' Ji Chen''s face turned extremely grim. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The death of Huang Shangzong''s Advisor in Xinjie City was a matter that could be seen as big or small for the notables of Xinjie City.


    But for him, given orders by Yan Chen to host Wu Zhi, it was a calamity as if the sky had fallen.


    So he looked at Wu Zhi''s corpse with a troubled expression, his mind racing. After a moment, like grasping at a lifeline, he suddenly turned and glared fiercely at Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu! Advisor Wu died in your jurisdiction, how do you explain this!"


    "Was all of this orchestrated by you?"


    Upon hearing Ji Chen''s words, Qiu Tu remained silent. He made just one move: he put Chen Feng down, stood up, walked briskly to Ji Chen, and drew his gun!


    Then, with a "click," he pulled the gun''s bolt and pressed it directly against Ji Chen''s forehead!


    At that moment, the atmosphere, which had just relaxed, suddenly tensed up again!


    The guards brought by Ji Chen''s heart leapt, and then they all drew their guns!


    While they were quick to react, Cao Dabiao, Ding Xiaoliu, and others were even quicker!


    "What are you doing! What are you doing! Are you rebelling!"


    Accompanied by Cao Dabiao''s roaring, Qiu Tu''s confidants also drew their guns one after another, aiming at the guards!


    After all, Xinjie City had been established for almost a year and a half, and although there was still some chaos in certain areas, the overall danger was not high. Therefore, Commissioner Wang and Wu Zhi didn''t bring many people with them when they came.


    A dozen guards were not enough to stand up to the nearly thirty confidants of Qiu Tu, and the sheer numerical difference made them afraid to act rashly.


    So, within an instant, Qiu Tu''s men gained control over the situation.


    As if expecting the current situation, Qiu Tu never paid attention to the tense stand-off from the start.


    Instead, with the cold muzzle of the gun against Ji Chen''s forehead, he sinisterly said, "Director Ji, what did you just say? Please repeat it..."


    Qiu Tu may have disregarded the unfolding scene, but Ji Chen had taken everything in at a glance.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s faction gaining control and the remorseless gun at his forehead, coupled with Qiu Tu''s notorious behavior of acting above the law, he truly didn''t dare to bet that Qiu Tu was just bluffing to scare him. So, in an instant, he caved in...


    He forced a smile and said, "Minister Qiu, it''s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding."


    He hurriedly explained, "I was just a bit anxious earlier, so my words were careless."


    Seeing Ji Chen submit, Qiu Tu dropped the intimidation. He snorted coldly, then reached out to pat Ji Chen on the face, saying, "Director Ji. Some food can be eaten randomly, but some words must not be spoken carelessly!"


    "First, this is not within my jurisdiction."


    "I merely discovered the illegal and disciplinary violations of Director Bai, so I came to take him back for investigation."


    "My defensive perimeter is only the inside of the villa. Anything outside the villa has nothing to do with me."


    "Secondly, I don''t even know who this distinguished guest is. How could I possibly harm him for no reason?"


    "Lastly, that assassin, apart from wanting to kill this distinguished guest, quite obviously wanted to kill me too."


    "Those shots were fired at me without the slightest mercy."


    "If it weren''t for my subordinates taking the bullets for me, I might now be lying on the ground just like this distinguished guest."


    "I know you''re a bit anxious because you failed to protect the safety of this distinguished guest, but even if you''re anxious, don''t bite wildly!"


    Having finished speaking, Qiu Tu turned to look at Commissioner Wang, who had been so frightened by the drawn swords and crossbows from just before that he turned pale and dared not speak. Qiu Tu then squeezed out a hideous smile, "Don''t you agree, Commissioner Wang?"


    The "truth" of the matter was just as Qiu Tu had described, and furthermore, Qiu Tu still controlled the situation at the scene.


    So how could Commissioner Wang dare to utter a word of dissent?


    He immediately grinned, nodding continuously, "Yes, yes. Minister Qiu makes sense."


    After speaking, he turned to Ji Chen, scolding, "Director Ji, now that Advisor Wu has had an accident, we should be united to overcome this problem, instead of turning against each other."


    "You mustn''t lose your senses!"


    Commissioner Wang''s words sounded like a criticism of Ji Chen. But in fact, he was giving him a way out.


    So, upon hearing this, Ji Chen hurriedly nodded and agreed, "Yes, Commissioner Wang and Minister Qiu''s criticisms are right."


    "I indeed panicked earlier."


    Seeing Ji Chen had submitted,


    Qiu Tu also withdrew his menacing gun.


    He looked condescendingly at Ji Chen and then inquired, "The Advisor Wu you just introduced, who exactly is he?"


    "What does he do?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang glanced at each other.


    With Wu Zhi now dead, their plan to take down Qiu Tu certainly couldn''t be executed, and both of them couldn''t guess how the situation would unfold next.


    So they quickly put on a smile and gave a vague answer, "Actually, it''s not much. He was just an advisor from the Sanctuary coming for a routine inspection in our Xinjie City."


    "Inspecting various institutions and departments."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu uttered an "Oh" and then said, "Alright, you''d better make a call for reinforcements or report upwards now."


    "If you need my cooperation or testimony, you can come to me anytime. I should be working from Secretary Bai''s villa for the next couple of days."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu put away his gun, then waved to his confidants, "Let''s go, take Chen Feng with us. We''re withdrawing!" and then he walked back to the villa in a grand manner.


    At this time, looking at Qiu Tu''s imposing figure and his many followers,


    The expressions of Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang were complicated.


    If they had previously only heard of Qiu Tu''s ability to win over people''s hearts and knew that he had cultivated a group of loyalists without taking it too seriously,


    Then, after experiencing today''s events, for the first time, they truly felt the difference between Qiu Tu''s subordinates and the subordinates of a usual senior official ¡ª that is the kind who would obey only Qiu Tu''s orders and follow him through life and death as true confidants!


    With so many officials and directors at various high ranks willing to die for him, Qiu Tu was indeed growing more influential.


    ''He''s become a force to be reckoned with, becoming uncontrollable¡­''


    For a while, Ji Chen and Commissioner Wang had complex looks in their eyes...


    They watched as Qiu Tu and his people left, and regaining their senses, they finally remembered to call for help and report up the death of Wu Zhi!


    ------

 Chapter 298 - 248: Yan Chen Aims to Advance to Fourth Order! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu shot Wu Zhi in the face, an act far removed from sending Wu Zhi to his death without God or ghost noticing.


    Therefore, after deciding on how to deal with Wu Zhi, Qiu Tu had been contemplating how to kill him without arousing the suspicions of Huang Shangzong, Yan Chen, Commissioner Wang, and others.


    It was at this time that Qiu Tu returned to his villa and met Shen Lingshuang.


    Shen Lingshuang told Qiu Tu that she had concocted two potions for him over the past few days, one odd and specific, which she gave to Xiao Bai to fixate his cataclysmic ability, and the other was a "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion." (Chapter 231)


    That bottle of "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion" reminded Qiu Tu: he still had a mighty weapon in his hand! S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was the precious Cataclysmic Material he had salvaged from the "Salvage Game," "the overflowing spiritual entity of a Cataclysmic." (Chapter 152)


    This Cataclysmic Material had a miraculous effect: as long as it was integrated into the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion, the potion''s awakening success rate would be 100 percent. Moreover, it could only awaken the cataclysmic ability of "Shadow Walking."


    "Shadow Walking" was the unique ability of a Cataclysmic called "Lone Wolf" that Qiu Tu had once killed. The effect allowed one to hide and walk freely within shadows.


    There were no traces, nor sound, nor scent, and even the things carried would vanish as well.


    It was because of this ability that Lone Wolf became a famous gold-class assassin in the Planning Area!


    After advancing to a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu had thought about granting this ability to Eagle. (Chapter 216)


    But there was never a suitable opportunity.


    Now, wasn''t it precisely the time to use this treasure and ability?


    So, the next afternoon, after sending Tan Huimin away, Qiu Tu specifically called Eagle into his office and gave him the Cataclysmic Awakening Potion fused with "Shadow Walking."


    After drinking this Cataclysmic Potion, Eagle indeed became a Cataclysmic through "Mystery" means, and he also acquired the ability of "Shadow Walking."


    Afterward, Qiu Tu gave him two pieces of equipment: a handgun made by the United Front and a Cataclysmic treasure.


    That handgun was specifically kept by Qiu Tu after the United Front squad attacked him last time, intended for framing and entrapment.


    And that Cataclysmic treasure was the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" that Qiu Tu had once used.


    Qiu Tu was a person who liked to be thorough in his actions.


    If he was preparing for Eagle to assassinate Wu Zhi, he had to ensure that Eagle had a solid alibi.


    Otherwise, right after the assassination, if Yan Chen investigated and found that Eagle was conveniently not in the Bureau, wouldn''t that expose the scheme?


    But with the Uncompromising Simulacrum, Eagle had a double in the Bureau, which provided a perfect alibi.


    To make the play convincing, Qiu Tu also instructed Eagle to aim for a precise spot for the first shot and, after killing Wu Zhi, to immediately turn the gun on himself.


    Qiu Tu, now a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, was almost immune to handgun damage, so even if he was hit, it would at most be a superficial wound.


    Latter, Qiu Tu would intentionally tear open the wound a bit more, making himself look pitiable, and wouldn''t that make the act all the more realistic?


    In addition, Qiu Tu had arranged for Eagle to be shot in front of witnesses but planned to heal his wound using "Order Space" tonight.


    In this way, unless someone had God''s Perspective, trying to trace the assassination back to Eagle and then to Qiu Tu would be complete nonsense!


    Qiu Tu planned well, and the execution was flawless.


    The only slight surprise in the entire plan was... Qiu Tu hadn''t expected to hold such a high place in the hearts of his confidants.


    When they realized he was about to be shot, Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu didn''t hesitate at all and threw themselves forward, taking the bullets intended for him.


    Though... it seemed like those bullets were rather pointlessly borne, their actions did lend even more authenticity and talking points to the scene.


    So, Qiu Tu looked at Chen Feng with complex eyes. He said, "The wound''s position is off, no threat to life."


    "But... you''ll need some time to recuperate."


    Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then reassured, "Don''t worry, though, if I''m not mistaken, you should be back to your normal activities in a couple of days."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu patted Chen Feng''s uninjured shoulder and declared, "When you return to the Bureau, I will definitely promote you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the reticent Chen Feng cracked a grin and said, "Thank you, Chief!"


    "Huh?" Qiu Tu interjected, "Don''t call me Chief anymore. Call me Brother Tu."


    "Yes! Brother Tu!" replied Chen Feng, his obedience flowing like water.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile too.


    After attending to Chen Feng''s wounds,


    Qiu Tu also stood up and instructed Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan to carry Chen Feng down to rest.


    As for himself, he sat in the living room for a little over a minute in a daze, and then he made his way to the room where Secretary Bai was being held.


    When he arrived at Secretary Bai''s bedroom, Qiu Tu pushed the door open and entered.


    Inside the room, Secretary Bai sat in a recliner, leisurely reading a book, while Li Xian and Ding Xiaoqi stood watch over him.


    Seeing Qiu Tu enter, the two quickly stood up and saluted, "Commander!"


    Qiu Tu nodded, then said, "You two step out for a while, I want to have a good talk with Secretary Bai."


    "Yes!" Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the two stepped out of the bedroom, then closed the door from the outside with the back of their hands.


    After the room was left with only Qiu Tu and Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai slowly put down the book in his hand, then looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "Is the matter resolved?"


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "I don''t understand what you mean."


    Secretary Bai shook his head with a smile, and remarked, "You... your vigilance is really strong."


    He said, "I''m already your captive. What is there for you to fear?"


    Qiu Tu stated righteously, "I don''t even know what you mean, so there''s nothing for me to fear or not fear."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu didn''t continue on that topic, but instead asked, "Brother Bai, now that I''ve arrested you, can you tell me some things?"


    "Why exactly did you choose to side with the Evil God?"


    "In my mind, you are clearly not that kind of person."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai did not respond to his question at first but instead asked, "Today... did you see the Bureau Chief?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then said, "I didn''t go to the Bureau today, so of course, I didn''t see him."


    Secretary Bai said with a smile, "But... he must already know about you coming to see me yesterday."


    Qiu Tu was a bit confused about the meaning behind Secretary Bai''s words. He couldn''t help asking, "What does that have to do with our topic?"


    Secretary Bai first shook his head, then nodded, "It''s somewhat related. But you can also take it as small talk."


    He always acted in a calm and steady manner, methodical and composed.


    So he put down the book in his hand, then walked to the floor-to-ceiling window of the bedroom, looking at the scenery outside while saying, "Qiu Tu, do you know the levels of Cataclysmics?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, "I know. From First-Order to Fifth Order."


    "Fifth Order is the highest, First-Order the lowest. The higher the level, the deeper the fusion with one''s own path, and the more liable the spirit is to influence."


    "That''s why the Sanctuary has decreed that Cataclysmics can only reach up to Third Order."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned away from the window with a smile, then said,


    "That must be something Director Tang told you, right?"


    In the face of Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu saw no need to deny it, so he acknowledged with a "Hmm."


    Secretary Bai said, "What Director Tang told you isn''t wrong. But... that''s just the most orthodox path."


    "If all humans, all Cataclysmics, stop at the Third Order,"


    "Then when those terrifying Cataclysmic Creatures, Evil Gods, descend into the real world, what will humanity use to withstand them?"


    Qiu Tu asked in confusion, "Aren''t rockets, artillery, and nuclear bombs used for that?"


    Secretary Bai turned and looked at Qiu Tu with a laugh, "Those are means to be used in thinly populated areas or when it is absolutely necessary to defend."


    "What if Cataclysmic Creatures descend upon the Sanctuary, the Planning Area? What then?"


    After hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze also revealed deep contemplation.


    Secretary Bai slowly continued, "So, in fact, the Sanctuary has also researched a Pseudo Fourth-Order promotion method over the years."


    "Normally, the spirit and strength remain at the Third Order. But when it''s time to fight, one can enter the realm of Fourth-order Cataclysmics at any moment!"


    Shocked by Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly realized the hint that Secretary Bai was giving him.


    He couldn''t help saying, "Is Yan Chen currently advancing to Pseudo Fourth Order?!"


    ----

 Chapter 299 - 249: Yan Chen Seeks to Slay God! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned back with a smile, yet he didn''t respond.


    With his hands clasped behind his back, he stood by the floor-to-ceiling window with an air of gentle refinement, gazing out at the landscape and said softly, "It''s started to rain."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but cast his gaze outside. Indeed, at some point, a fine rain had begun to fall.


    The rain, like threads, bridged heaven and earth, a tenuous connection between the celestial and the terrestrial, linking spirit and reality.


    Qiu Tu watched the veil of rain somewhat absentmindedly for a while before he snapped back to reality and inquired, "But... even if one is promoted to a Pseudo Fourth Order, what good does that do for Yan Chen?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Secretary Bai slightly furrowed his brows. Then he reminded, "It''s Director Yan..."


    At this, Qiu Tu laughed, "Right. So, what good does that do for Director Yan?"


    Qiu Tu added another sentence, "I heard from Director Tang that the appointment to positions in the Sanctuary has nothing to do with strength."


    "Those with high strength aren''t necessarily in high positions, and those with low strength aren''t necessarily in low positions."


    Secretary Bai nodded upon hearing this and said, "Director Tang is not wrong in what she says."


    "But... that''s all based on her experience telling you this."


    Secretary Bai slowly continued, "But don''t forget. What is Director Tang''s strength? A Third-Order Peak Cataclysmic, the utmost limit openly supported by the Sanctuary."


    "So, with her personal conditions, she doesn''t lose to anyone in terms of strength. Of course, she would feel the impact of strength isn''t significant."


    "Moreover... you should also be clear about Director Tang''s identity and background."


    Secretary Bai turned around, sat on a low cabinet by the window, and gazed directly at Qiu Tu, "In the whole of Xinjie City, no one is more legitimately born and bred than Director Tang."


    "Her father was one of the core founders of the Eighth Sanctuary, one of the highest-ranking officials in the Investigation Bureau."


    "Her status and position are even higher than Huang Shangzong''s."


    "With the strength she has demonstrated, her background, and her current position. The higher-ups of the Sanctuary are indeed grooming her as the core for the Sanctuary''s future."


    "Who would dare to obstruct her promotion?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s eyes widened involuntarily.


    Truth be told, he had considered that Tang Feifei''s identity and background were quite substantial. Especially after meeting Tang Feifei''s second uncle, he grew even more certain.


    But to be honest... he really hadn''t thought it would be this substantial.


    If one were to put Tang Feifei into Qiu Tu''s previous lifetime, she would be a bona fide red aristocrat, a princess-level VIP.


    Seeing his reaction, Secretary Bai smiled genteelly and then said, "You see. You''re still not thinking comprehensively enough."


    "Actually, there is one detail from which you can infer just how extraordinary Director Tang''s identity is."


    "The entire hierarchy above and below Xinjie City''s Investigation Bureau was built by the Bureau Chief''s own hands.


    "Whether it''s Deputy Director Yu or Vice Director Lai, they''re all his people. This also represents that both the ''combat department'' and ''administrative department'' within the bureau are comprised of the Bureau Chief''s confidants."


    "Plus, among the nine high-level officials, eight are the Bureau Chief''s confidants."


    "Under such circumstances, the fact that Director Tang still has a certain amount of influence in the bureau, and that the calculating Bureau Chief can still tolerate her presence, already suffices to prove the extraordinariness of her identity."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, feeling that it really was the case...


    At that moment, Secretary Bai continued to explain, "Going back to our earlier discussion."


    "For Director Tang, strength is not that important."


    He paused, "Or rather, for most mid and senior-level officials, strength isn''t that important either."


    "Even to the Bureau Chief, on a day-to-day basis, strength is not extremely important."


    "But... have you forgotten what time it is now?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu first was startled, then immediately had a realization.


    He exclaimed in surprise, "Is the Bureau Chief aiming for the position of Deputy Speaker in Dongye State?"


    Secretary Bai''s lips curled into a smile. He said nothing, yet everything was communicated without words.


    With this critical piece of the puzzle in hand, Qiu Tu suddenly felt as though all the pieces fell into place!


    His mind was racing!


    The strength of Cataclysmics might not be important under normal circumstances and might just offer a slight advantage during routine promotions.


    However, at the time of establishing a new state, it becomes somewhat significant. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One must know that after the establishment of Dongye State, the highest-ranking officials from the three major powers of each city will automatically become members of the council.


    And from those forty-plus councilors, three will become Deputy Speakers.


    ```


    And the highest officials of each city were of the same rank; their strength and abilities were similar as well; even the backing they had in the Sanctuaries might not be much different.


    Choosing one over another was a matter of indecision.


    At this time, if Yan Chen were to advance to become a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, wouldn''t he stand out among the competitors in the Investigation Bureau''s hierarchy?


    Especially since Director Liu (the Investigation Bureau Chief of the state government), previously the most hopeful, had been vetoed by Huang Shangzong, he would very likely gain the full support of the Investigation Bureau''s faction.


    Moreover, the Sanctuary would consider the advantage of having a Fourth-order Cataclysmic to fall back on, so that in the future, even if an Evil God or Cataclysmic Creatures were to descend, Dongye State would have the strength to respond.


    Therefore, a chip that initially didn''t seem to matter much, when it fell onto the scale at this critical moment, suddenly became a heavy-weight chip that could influence the final outcome!


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu suddenly understood Yan Chen''s series of plans.


    ''Indeed, it''s Yan Chen... still the familiar tactics: stirring the greatest waves with the slightest change.''


    ''But... why is Old Bai discussing this with me?''


    ''Weren''t we talking about the Evil God Larilo?''


    ''What does Yan Chen''s promotion have to do with Lariro?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brain spun rapidly.


    After a moment, he felt goosebumps all over his body!


    He abruptly looked up at Secretary Bai.


    At this moment, Secretary Bai had at some point moved to a small table in the bedroom and started brewing tea.


    He was not in uniform today; his casual wear was in shades of white, exuding an air of suave and polished charm.


    Qiu Tu just watched him, kept watching...


    After a moment, he said, "I remember the Security Department once showed me intelligence on Yan Chen. It said he was suspected to be a ''Life'' or ''Immortality'' path Cataclysmic." (Chapters 42, 95)


    "So..."


    Before Qiu Tu could finish, Secretary Bai interrupted him, "The Bureau Chief''s Cataclysm Path is ''Life''."


    Qiu Tu suddenly bit his lip.


    He had guessed right!


    Yan Chen''s Cataclysm Path was ''Life'', and Lariro''s Cataclysm Path was also ''Life''!


    Therefore, the reason Yan Chen had Secretary Bai take refuge with Lariro, the reason he lured Larilo into the real world, was all because he wanted to devour Larilo!


    And the reason Secretary Bai was discussing Yan Chen''s potential promotion to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic with him was actually to tell Qiu Tu that Yan Chen planned to elevate himself to Fourth-order Cataclysmic by devouring Larilo!


    ''Damn! That''s just insane!''


    To be honest, last night, while diligently working with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu had also pondered many reasons why Yan Chen might have directed Secretary Bai to become an Evil God Cultist!


    He considered that Yan Chen had sent Secretary Bai to infiltrate Lariro to prepare for a clean sweep of her followers.


    He thought that Yan Chen, fearing death in his old age, wanted to obtain the method of immortality from Lariro.


    He even speculated that Yan Chen, like Jia Shu, wanted to cooperate with the Evil God to eliminate rivals but didn''t want to get involved personally.


    But... no matter which reason he considered, Qiu Tu felt something was unreasonable: after all, Secretary Bai''s position and potential were too high.


    To sacrifice Secretary Bai for the aforementioned benefits, setting aside whether Secretary Bai would agree, was a mismatch of investment and return even for Yan Chen himself!


    Now that he knew Yan Chen was actually plotting a deicide, planning to "eat" Lariro in one bite, everything suddenly made sense to Qiu Tu!


    If Yan Chen truly could commit deicide, truly ''eat'' Lariro, then the traces of being a follower would also disappear from Secretary Bai!


    So, Yan Chen could both advance to Fourth-order and keep Secretary Bai safe!


    However, realizing this, Qiu Tu suddenly found himself confused about when exactly Yan Chen had begun plotting all this.


    Had it been from the moment he arrived in Xinjie City? From when Larilo descended to this world? Or after he had discovered Larilo''s identity?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s expression turned ugly.


    While he was still contemplating how to outsmart Larilo, Yan Chen had already cunningly included Larilo''s variable in his plan, using her as nourishment for his promotion!


    And he had silently allowed Qiu Tu to strike at Larilo''s followers and weaken her forces!


    Was this the strategic expertise of an Old Fox?


    As Qiu Tu pondered this, suddenly, a green beam of light burst forth outside the window! It then shot from the ground straight into the sky!


    At the same time, the phantom of a great tree appeared over the entire sky of Xinjie City, covering 11,200 square kilometers!


    ----

 Chapter 300 - 250: The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu was startled for a moment, then quickly got up and strode to the floorto-ceiling window of the bedroom, looking up at the sky.


    In his line of sight, the illusion of that massive green tree, much like a majestic mountain range, stood tall and stretched across the sky above Xinjie City! Its imposing figure reached for the clouds, seemingly connecting heaven and earth.


    The rain, like the green sap dripping off tree leaves, shone brightly reflected by the illusion, cascading from the crown of the tree to the ground, where it created ripples upon impact.


    Gazing at the magnificent spectacle he had never seen before, Qiu Tu''s face was filled with shock and disbelief, and he couldn''t help but mutter softly,


    "What... is this?"


    Hearing his words, Secretary Bai also picked up his teacup and slowly walked to the window, then, while looking at the giant tree illusion, he said indifferently, "This is an Illusion of the Law."


    "When a being reaches the Fourth Order, its spirit will become increasingly aligned with the path it follows."


    "And it will gain a part of the laws of the path it practices, eventually forming its own unique Illusion of the Law."


    "Once an Illusion of the Law is born, there are many benefits."


    Secretary Bai paused for a moment before continuing, "One, the being''s strength will be greatly enhanced."


    "Two, the lifespan of the being will also be significantly extended due to its alignment with the laws."


    "For instance, the average lifespan of an ordinary human is about 60-70 years. But once promoted to the Fourth Order, it is said one can live up to two hundred years."


    "Even if the lifespan of the physical body reaches its limit, one can transform into a spiritual entity, becoming a special existence similar to High Order Catastrophized Creatures, and continue to live."


    "At that time, the lifespan would be even longer. Exactly how much longer, no one can say for sure..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then took up the conversation, "But becoming a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver and giving birth to an Illusion of the Law must have its downsides too, right?"


    "Like...being influenced by the law, so thoughts and mentality are increasingly affected by the path one follows?"


    "Many actions must be more in line with the habits of one''s path?"


    Secretary Bai nodded with a smile, "Yes. That''s indeed the case."


    "That is also why the Sanctuary does not encourage officials to pursue great power."


    "Because the stronger the power, the higher the degree of assimilation by the path."


    "The ''Life'' path is still okay, but with paths like ''Chaos'' and ''Destruction'', you might turn into a madman, a pervert."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    He continued looking up at the splendid illusion of the giant tree composed of countless light spots and then asked, "So, the Bureau Chief has succeeded in his promotion now?"


    "Has he devoured Larilo?"


    Secretary Bai also looked up at the giant tree illusion, then shook his head slightly, "Clearly not."


    "If First-order and Second-order Catastrophics can still be considered ordinary beings, then Third Order and Fourth Order beings are truly legendary creatures."


    "Thus, whether it is advancing from Second Order to Third Order, or from Third Order to Fourth Order, it''s not a simple process."


    He pointed to the giant tree illusion and said, "In cases like this, it''s estimated to continue for 10 days, half a month or so."


    Curious, Qiu Tu asked, "Won''t this alarm the ordinary residents of Xinjie City?"


    Secretary Bai laughed lightly and said, "Do you think this scene before our eyes is something ordinary people can see?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes widened slightly, and he began to guess. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sure enough, Secretary Bai explained, "This giant tree is actually the projection of the Bureau Chief''s Illusion of the Law in the Boundless Heart Sea. It only appears in the real world because its power is too overwhelming."


    "But even so, only those Catastrophics who have awoken ''Spiritual Vision'' can see it."


    "It''s invisible to ordinary people..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, having an epiphany: no wonder the confidants outside had no reaction, as if they couldn''t see the giant tree. It turns out they really couldn''t see it.


    And just as he was thinking this,


    Suddenly, his Communicator started "ringing."


    Qiu Tu felt his pocket and realized it was the special Communicator from the Security Department.


    Even without taking out the Communicator, Qiu Tu guessed who the caller was and the topic they were likely to discuss.


    Clearly, Qin Shuman had also seen Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, so she was ready to exchange some information with him.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu said to Secretary Bai, "Old Bai, I''ll step out to take a call."


    Secretary Bai took a sip of tea, nodded slightly, and gestured with his hand.


    Qiu Tu walked out of the bedroom with big strides.


    Outside the bedroom, Li Xian and Ding Xiaoqi were still on guard.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come out, both of them "snapped" to attention and saluted.


    Qiu Tu discreetly signaled towards the inside, they nodded, walked in, and continued to guard Secretary Bai.


    Although Qiu Tu trusted that Secretary Bai wasn''t someone who would run away or commit suicide or self-mutilation...you can never be too careful. Now that the person was captured, he definitely had to make full preparations.


    Especially since... Secretary Bai clearly knew a lot about the secrets concerning Yan Chen and Larilo.


    Qiu Tu still needed him to unravel puzzles for him.


    And thinking of Yan Chen, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a bit annoyed again: he had long known that Yan Chen was terrifying, but hadn''t expected him to be this frightening.


    Previously, Qiu Tu had only intended to investigate the Qin Family and deal with them, but he hadn''t expected that Yan Chen would take advantage of catching one of the "small fry," immediately reaping the biggest benefit of the entire incident: forcing the whole Qin Family into his ranks.

 Chapter 301 - 250: The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After Qiu Tu relaxed just a bit, Yan Chen took advantage of Vice President Tian''s mistress''s case, and got him to provide the Investigation Bureau with a full set of new surveillance equipment. Then, Yan Chen turned around and sold out Vice President Tian.


    Afterward, whether it was the "Evil God case" or the "8.19 Pharmacy robbery case," whether Yan Chen knew the information beforehand or learned the truth afterward, he always managed to gain huge benefits with just a few small moves.


    Even... the death of Jia Shu.


    It seemed that Qiu Tu benefitted the most, but in fact... Yan Chen also gained a lot.


    Not only did he replace a Head of the Political Department who was becoming disobedient, but he also successfully controlled all the candidates for the new Head of the Political Department within the circle of his confidants. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That is to say, no matter who the new Head of the Political Department would be, it would be his own person.


    But that wasn''t all. He had again taken control of the Political Department and even managed to insert his own secretary, Ji Chen, into the Political Department, who took a three-level jump to become the Deputy Staff Director.


    He simply exploited every profitable aspect of the entire situation to the extreme.


    So ever since Qiu Tu transmigrated, even though he had been trying to undermine Yan Chen and attempt to dissolve his power,


    But... each time he made a move, Yan Chen would always find a new direction, then turn the crisis into an opportunity.


    Like this time with the devouring of Larilo and his rise to a Fourth-Order Cataclysmic. Qiu Tu guessed that this might also be the result of Yan Chen''s long-term planning.


    Qiu Tu was able to deduce Larilo''s target to be Yanyan after he learned about the various arrangements Larilo made in the past two years.


    With Yan Chen''s shrewdness, it''s very likely that he discovered Larilo''s arrangements earlier than Qiu Tu and successfully deduced that Larilo''s target was his daughter.


    Then... he didn''t make a fuss, didn''t counterattack, nor stop Larilo''s schemes; instead, he went with the flow and let Secretary Bai pledge allegiance to Larilo, helping Larilo complete the whole plan.


    Afterward, he rode the waves, helped Qiu Tu cut off several of Larilo''s limbs, forcing Larilo to only trust Secretary Bai, thus completely controlling Larilo''s actions...


    In the end, he completely dragged Larilo into his trap.


    This series of maneuvers was both cruel and cunning...


    He was like a silent spider, weaving a massive web for Larilo, then quietly watching as Larilo fell deeper until he was completely captured!


    The more he thought about it, the more Qiu Tu marveled at Yan Chen''s cunning and depth, sinister to a frightening level. So when he got to the end of the corridor, he picked up the phone, ready to chat with Qin Shuman about this topic.


    Once the call connected, Qin Shuman''s voice immediately came through the receiver, "Qiu Tu, did you see that Illusion of the Law?"


    Qiu Tu responded, "I saw it,"


    While speaking, he paused for a moment and then added, "Not only did I see it, but I also know the inside story of the matter."


    Qin Shuman had indeed called to discuss intelligence with Qiu Tu. So, hearing that Qiu Tu knew the inside story, her voice immediately carried a hint of joy, "You really do have special channels for information."


    "I didn''t make a mistake coming to you."


    Qiu Tu chuckled, not minding Qin Shuman''s praise, and didn''t quote a price¡ªgiven Qin Shuman''s intelligence, even if he didn''t mention it, she would offer a reasonable price.


    Therefore, he detailed how Yan Chen had schemed against Larilo and ultimately managed to devour her.


    After patiently listening to the entire inside story and its complexities, Qin Shuman on the phone was obviously stunned.


    She fell silent for a good ten seconds before slowly saying, "I was earlier guessing which Cataclysmic caused this anomaly."


    "At first, I thought it was Director Tang, but unexpectedly it turned out to be Director Yan..."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman couldn''t help but add, "It is quite surprising."


    Qiu Tu smiled and remarked, "Isn''t it."


    Perhaps because Qin Shuman was one of the closest people to Qiu Tu in this world, as they chatted, Qiu Tu''s mood actually relaxed a bit.


    Relaxed spirits led to faster thinking.


    So when Qin Shuman softly asked, "So Qiu Tu... what are you planning to do now?" Qiu Tu''s brain actually came up with some new ideas.


    He didn''t share his plans right away but instead asked a question, "Shuman. If I try to stop Yan Chen''s advancement now, will I be... by the Sanctuary...?"


    Before Qiu Tu finished speaking, Qin Shuman interrupted him, "Yes, and not just Eighth Sanctuary. You will become the public enemy of all Sanctuaries."


    "After all, regardless of what faction Yan Chen belongs to, his first identity is still a human."


    "His advancement to a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic in itself signifies the strengthening of the human race and the enhancement of human power."


    "So, if you dare to disrupt Yan Chen''s advancement, the various Sanctuaries will definitely charge you with ''Crimes against Humanity'' and put you on the wanted list."


    Continuing, Qin Shuman paused, then added, "Moreover, I don''t think you can interrupt Yan Chen''s promotion."


    "Not to mention that after learning this news, the military will certainly deploy heavy troops to help defend Yan Chen."


    "And as for him himself. He might seem to be advancing, but his strength is actually even more terrifying than before."


    "He who is in the midst of advancement now has probably established a small automatic defense domain. Any living creature entering that domain will be attacked."


    "So, without several Third-Order Peak Cataclysmics, I think it''s impossible to even get close to him."

 Chapter 302 - 250: The Method to Break the Game! (1/2 10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Qiu Tu, upon hearing this, wasn''t particularly surprised. He said, "I understand."


    "In that case, it looks like we''ll have to resort to Plan B."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, an astonished Qin Shuman on the other end of the phone asked curiously, "Plan B? What is Plan B?"


    Gazing at the colossal tree''s phantom image in the sky outside the corridor window, Qiu Tu spoke softly, "Actually... whatever Yan Chen''s strength may be, with my current status, he can no longer get rid of me so easily."


    When Qin Shuman heard Qiu Tu''s words, she walked to the window, and gazing at the towering phantom of the great tree, she said, "Yes, after all, you''re the deputy division chief recognized by the Sanctuary."


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "So... in reality, whatever his strength is, its influence on me is minimal."


    "What truly affects me is the position he may hold in the future," he continued.


    "At the establishment of Dongye State, he was promoted to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, which makes it very likely for him to become the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State."


    Qin Shuman hummed in agreement, saying, "Yes, that''s very likely."


    Qiu Tu said, "Then this becomes quite simple."


    "If the position of Deputy Speaker is what can influence me, and not his strength, then why should I be terrified of his increase in strength? All I need to do is... prevent him from becoming the Deputy Speaker, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was momentarily stunned, then couldn''t help but ask, "But how can you stop him from becoming Deputy Speaker?"


    Qiu Tu''s eyes were resolute as he stated emphatically, "It''s simple! Do everything possible to delay his promotion."


    "As long as he is promoted after Dongye State is established, he won''t be able to become Deputy Speaker, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s plan, Qin Shuman was clearly confused!


    Obviously, even she was startled by Qiu Tu''s audacious idea!


    She hesitated before saying, "Are you sure... this will work?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Although I''m not yet clear on how to delay Yan Chen''s promotion, I at least feel that the idea is correct."


    Pausing for a moment, Qiu Tu continued, "Moreover, delaying Yan Chen''s promotion time has two benefits."


    Curious, Qin Shuman asked as she looked at the colossal phantom through the window, "What benefits?"


    "First, the longer Yan Chen''s promotion is delayed, the less influence he''ll have in the newly established Dongye State," Qiu Tu explained.


    "The founding conference of Dongye State won''t wait for him, and those dozens of delegates won''t wait either."


    "By the time they''ve all taken their places and formed their different factions and power groups, even if he wants to join later, he won''t be able to become the core of any faction."


    "Additionally, his attempt to compete for the Deputy Speaker seat by ascending to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic will probably lead to him being treated differently among the various factions," he surmised.


    "All of this will affect his future development."


    Qiu Tu elaborated, "The second point is regarding his power and influence in Xinjie City."


    "The name of power may come from the upper echelons, but in reality, it comes from the grassroots."


    "The reason he can make things happen in Xinjie City and hold such sway is ultimately because he has confidants all over the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and his people are in all departments."


    "But now, because he''s preoccupied with his promotion, he won''t be able to appear at the Bureau... Isn''t that our and Director Tang''s opportunity?"


    "We can take this chance to insert our own people into the various departments, promote our confidants, build our own forces, and hollow out his power!"


    "This will be our chance for rapid development!"


    "As long as we seize this opportunity, we won''t be fighting alone in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau anymore; we could potentially stand toe-to-toe with him!"


    After a few seconds of thoughtful silence upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman sincerely marveled, "Qiu Tu, I must say... you didn''t get to where you are now by luck."


    "What was clearly a crisis has become a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in your hands."


    "Moreover, I actually believe you can turn the tide!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile and said, "Then I''ll take that as Major Qin''s auspicious words."


    After chatting briefly, the two of them hung up the phone.


    Listening to the ''beep... beep...'' from the handset, Qiu Tu put away his communicator and then looked up, gazing out the window at the vague silhouette of the giant tree in the misty rain.


    His whole plan was actually learned from Yan Chen.


    In analyzing Yan Chen''s various schemes, Qiu Tu had unexpectedly found that Yan Chen''s tactic of ''using one trend to combat another'' seemed exceptionally powerful.


    Everything has its dual nature. Therefore, one need not rush when an opponent makes a move; instead, try to leverage the opponent''s ''strategy.''


    Yan Chen''s advancement surprised everyone and could indeed catapult him to new heights, but it also had an obvious downside: the element of ''time.''


    If Qiu Tu could play his cards right with timing, perhaps he could really turn this major crisis into a significant opportunity!


    However, to accomplish this, Qiu Tu would need the help of two other people...


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu took out his communicator again and dialed a few numbers.


    This time, after the number connected, instead of someone speaking, a ''beep beep'' sound played, as if the call were being transferred.


    After waiting a full ten seconds, just as Qiu Tu began to wonder if the call hadn''t gone through, a familiar and seductive female voice finally came through the handset.


    "Little man~~? What is it, you finally missed me?"


    Hearing the voice on the other end of the line, Qiu Tu''s mouth couldn''t help but curve into a slight smile.


    He said with a laugh, "Sister Liu. I''m calling you this time to ask for your help."


    -----


    To reach the goal of ten thousand subscriptions faster, the following chapters will probably merge three into two. But it''s still 10,000 words a day, so cast your Monthly Ticket!


    The next chapter will be between 23:00 and 24:00.

 Chapter 303 - 251: The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping on the other end of the phone laughed.


    "Giggle giggle~" She laughed so hard she was bending over backwards, "Indeed, with that heartless character of yours, you wouldn''t come to me if there wasn''t an issue~"


    She was quite aware of her own character, so after her laughter subsided, she spoke seriously, "Alright, tell me, my dear minister, what has brought you to me this time?"


    Even though Liu Fuping teased him, Qiu Tu wasn''t the least bit embarrassed. He said, "I have an important piece of intelligence that I''d like to pass through you to Director Liu."


    When Liu Fuping heard Qiu Tu''s words, she didn''t take much interest at first, asking, "What intelligence?"


    Qiu Tu replied seriously, "Yan Chen is currently advancing to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, plotting for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State."


    Indeed, the news was shocking enough to even startle Liu Fuping, who wasn''t very sensitive to intelligence.


    She didn''t bother flirting with Qiu Tu any further, and hurriedly confirmed again, "You''re saying Yan Chen is advancing to Fourth-order Cataclysmic? And she''s planning to compete for the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State with that?"


    After speaking, she seemed a bit puzzled, "But... what''s the direct connection between becoming a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and competing for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State?"


    Qiu Tu didn''t hold much hope for Liu Fuping''s intelligence analysis capabilities, so seeing that Liu Fuping couldn''t see through the game, he replied with a laugh, "Sister Liu, you just need to bring this intelligence to Director Liu. That''s all."


    "The rest, he will understand."


    Liu Fuping gave a couple of "Oh oh" sounds, then suddenly caught on.


    She asked indignantly, "Are you saying I''m dumb?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu "Ha ha" laughed out loud twice, then swiftly changed the subject, "By the way, what have you been up to lately, Sister Liu?"


    "Since you left Xinjie City, I''ve never heard from you again."


    "I even specially had people inquire about you in Eastern City, but to no avail."


    Qiu Tu was actually telling a barefaced lie.


    Since Liu Fuping''s departure, he had hardly thought about her at all.


    Moreover... before the establishment of Dongye State, each city was relatively independent, and Qiu Tu''s influence couldn''t reach Eastern City.


    So, he was completely hoodwinking Liu Fuping.


    But... women fall for this kind of trick.


    According to the "Emotional Fraud Manual," this is one of the "108 Ways to Enhance Affection: No. 10, Benign Lies."


    Whether the woman is smart or foolish, they share a common trait: they like sweet nothings.


    Even if they know the flattery is false, they still enjoy it.


    This is not only because women crave emotional value more than men do, but also because they easily fall into a strange logical loop: if he is willing to lie to me, it means he cares about me.


    As expected, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a lovely smile curved up the corners of Liu Fuping''s mouth on the other end of the phone. She was clearly very pleased.


    Even if she most likely guessed Qiu Tu was just comforting her, she still explained with a soft voice, "I didn''t leave my real name for you, so it''d be a miracle if you could find any news about me."


    "And besides..." she paused for a moment, then chuckled softly, "I''m not in Eastern City now."


    This change was indeed unexpected to Qiu Tu. He was stunned for a second, then inquired, "You''re not in Eastern City? Then where are you?"


    Liu Fuping replied, "I''m now in the Sanctuary."


    She went on, "With the imminent establishment of Dongye State, it signifies that those dozen or so Planning Areas of Eastern City, Xinjie City, will be integrated into a whole, officially entering the Sanctuary''s system."


    "Hence, the Sanctuary has demanded from Dongye State that the current chaotic legal system must come to an end. They require the establishment of a basic judicial system within the present Investigation Bureau framework." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Saying this, Liu Fuping spoke with a hint of pride, "And Director Liu has recommended me to be one of the first members of this system."


    "I''m currently studying at the Sanctuary, striving to learn the basics of law within a month, memorizing legal provisions, and then following the Sanctuary-appointed judges to Xinjie City to establish a basic judicial system."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s remarks, to be honest, Qiu Tu felt genuinely surprised.


    Liu Fuping... was going to become a judge?


    And one of the first judges in the newly established judicial system of Dongye State?


    The value of this position really couldn''t be underestimated.


    Qiu Tu guessed that with the golden touch of the personnel sent by the Sanctuary, by the time Liu Fuping comes back gilt in gold, she might really be treated at the level of a Deputy Division Chief.


    However, when he thought that... this judicial system was established within the framework of the Investigation Bureau, thereby further strengthening the power of the Bureau, Qiu Tu felt a bit of a toothache.


    With this, the power of the Deputy Speaker representing the Investigation Bureau system, who would now hold the judiciary of Dongye State, would be tremendously intimidating.


    And if Yan Chen actually became that Deputy Speaker, from then on, in Dongye State, Qiu Tu really would be at Yan Chen''s mercy.


    Considering this, Qiu Tu made up his mind once again: he had to stall for time, and not let Yan Chen become the Deputy Speaker.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu first congratulated Liu Fuping, "Then let me congratulate Sister Liu in advance!"


    "I''ll be waiting to give you a warm welcome when you come back to Dongye State. At that time, I will definitely throw a celebration for your return."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu immediately brought the topic back to the main point, "Then I''ll leave the matter of contacting Director Liu in your capable hands, Sister Liu. Please make sure the intelligence gets to him."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Fuping giggled, then said, "Don''t worry, young man~ I will make sure the intelligence is delivered."


    "I believe the Director will be interested."

 Chapter 304 - 251: The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    ```


    After she spoke, she also made a playful reference to what Qiu Tu had said about "washing the dust of travel," whispering with her voice lowered, "When I return to Dongye State, you really should throw a welcome back party for me~~~"


    "After all, I intend to come back ''fully loaded''...."


    Hearing the suggestive undertone in Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu felt his legs go straight...


    He coughed, teasing, "It''s only been a few days, Sister Liu, and you''re missing my buddy this much."


    Liu Fuping giggled, then said, "I don''t miss him at all."


    "I''m just warming up in advance to ensure that someone hasn''t poured all of their ''spawn'' into someone else....."


    Indeed, chatting with a young widow could indeed lead to ever-expanding boundaries.


    Thus, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but join in, saying, "Well, rest assured. Just dare to show up, and I''ll let you know that not every stab in the back comes from a knife...."


    Liu Fuping, at the other end of the phone, blushed at Qiu Tu''s risqu¨¦ words, but even so, she couldn''t help the corners of her mouth curving upwards...


    Perhaps it really was true that blushing enhances one''s beauty; perhaps it was the settling of a decade-old grievance; or perhaps it was the awakening of her Cataclysmic ability, but having not seen her for a few days, Liu Fuping clearly looked even more beautiful.


    Her delicate features, like those of a work of art, had a kind of ineffable seductiveness. Because of her shyness, her eyes tilted up slightly, sketching out a naturally charming allure.


    Her new judge''s uniform added an exceptional charm to her appearance....


    And so, the already flammable conversation between the two became even hotter.


    By the end of it, Liu Fuping''s eyes were practically smoldering, and Qiu Tu himself was nearly ready to storm the Sanctuary and exact his own version of justice on her!


    After all... he had never had a taste of a female judge before!


    Thus, after chatting for a good fifteen minutes, Liu Fuping reluctantly took the initiative to end the call.


    According to her, the phone line from the Planning Area to the Sanctuary operated on a fixed schedule.


    Her long chat with Qiu Tu might prevent Director Liu from being able to contact the Sanctuary''s backend later.


    That could potentially cause Director Liu to be a step behind in establishing her position in Dongye State.


    So, even though she was reluctant, she could not continue the call any longer.


    Qiu Tu was somewhat reluctant as well, but he understood the importance of the matter. So, after cautioning Liu Fuping once more to report the intelligence to Director Liu, he had no choice but to hang up the phone.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu held the communicator in his hand, gazing out at the drizzle beyond the window. Thinking about Liu Fuping, who was on her way to great success, Qin Shuman who had already achieved it, and Tang Feifei and Shen Lingshuang, who were born at the pinnacle...


    He suddenly felt that the women around him seemed to be doing as well as he was, if not better.


    So... could he continue to feed off their success indefinitely?


    After dreaming about this for a while, Qiu Tu picked up the phone again and called Tang Feifei, another potential source of his freeloading.


    Tang Feifei on the other end of the line was clearly aware of the "Illusion of the Law" cast by Yan Chen that covered the sky of Xinjie City.


    So, even before Qiu Tu could speak, she preemptively brought up the matter.


    And after learning the ins and outs of the entire situation and Qiu Tu''s plans, Tang Feifei was clearly hesitant.


    After pondering for a long time, she finally asked, "How confident are you in your plan?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Almost none."


    Tang Feifei: ??


    For a moment, Tang Feifei thought she had heard wrong.


    But then she heard Qiu Tu say, "But... do we have a better option?"


    "We can''t stop Yan Chen from advancing, and after Yan Chen advances, our situations will obviously be more difficult."


    "So, why not give it a shot."


    "After all, the worst that can happen is Yan Chen successfully moving up and becoming the Deputy Speaker, which is no different from the current situation."


    "But if we succeed, we might be able to turn the tables against the wind."


    "Then, with the power of Dongye State at our backs, who knows, we might be able to fight Yan Chen outright."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s analysis, Tang Feifei pondered for a moment.


    Then she suddenly spoke in a cool tone, "Qiu Tu... since you''ve heard a lot of secrets about Yan Chen from Bai Yu."


    "Then surely... he must have also talked about me, right?"


    Even though Tang Feifei phrased it as a question, she seemed certain of the answer, so she did not wait for any response from Qiu Tu before saying, "Actually... I don''t need to take this risk."


    "Coming to Xinjie City was a trial for me. My family deliberately placed me under Yan Chen to see if I could create an opportunity."


    "To put it plainly, they were using Yan Chen as a touchstone to polish me."


    "If I could carve out a space for myself under the shrewd and calculating Yan Chen, then I could gain more support and receive more investment."


    "And if I couldn''t, they would also have the option to transfer me elsewhere to further my development."


    Qiu Tu listened quietly to Tang Feifei''s words without much surprise: the world was inherently unfair; some people were born in luxury while others were born to toil. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei paused and then said coldly, "But... I don''t want to be transferred."


    "It''s not that I really care about support from my family. It''s... I''m too ashamed."


    "So... I''m willing to take a gamble with you."


    "You keep trying to delay Yan Chen''s advancement, and I will go have a chat with Yu Zhengyi."


    "Don''t be fooled by his old partnership with Yan Chen; he has also received favors from my father before."


    ```

 Chapter 305 - 251: The Meteoric Rise of Liu Fuping (2/2 Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "In the event that Yan Chen is unable to preside over the situation, as long as he, the Deputy Director of Administration, stands on our side, or refrains from expressing any opinions and just leaves it to Lai Shun, I can still keep things under control,"


    When Tang Feifei spoke these words, her tone carried no emotion, still remarkably cold. But Qiu Tu could still hear the imperious dominance in between the lines.


    Clearly, Tang Feifei, who had been lying low under Yan Chen for over a year, had finally revealed her fangs under Qiu Tu''s instigation. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With Yan Chen present, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was almost like a solid plate; but with Yan Chen absent, even Secretary Bai, Jia Shu, were all unable to manage the situation, other senior officials were merely chunks of fat under Tang Feifei''s sharp teeth!


    ''Time, the crux of everything is time!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei meticulously analyzed the current situation of the senior management in Xinjie City following Yan Chen''s advancement and Secretary Bai''s arrest by Qiu Tu. After discussing who they could draw over to their side and who they had to suppress, they ended the call.


    After three consecutive phone calls, the anxiety Qiu Tu had felt due to Yan Chen''s advancement had almost entirely subsided.


    What replaced it was an overwhelming surge of ambition!


    Yan Chen, who had always been prudent and steady, was like a turtle shell, with no weaknesses to exploit. But now that Yan Chen had become greedy, taking a risky shot at competing for the role of Deputy Speaker, even though the chances of success were high, he had exposed flaws because of it.


    If that were the case, then don''t blame Qiu Tu for focusing on those flaws and turning the tables against the wind!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu had his confidants bring over a chair, and while he admired the light rain outside the window and waited with his communicator for Director Liu to contact him, he began to plan further....


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    While Qiu Tu was busy making arrangements due to Yan Chen''s advancement,


    The Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was also in a bit of chaos at that moment.


    Of course, the chaos was not due to Yan Chen, but rather the death of Huang Shangzong''s confidant Wu Zhi.


    On the 12th floor, inside Yu Zhengyi''s private office,


    Yu Zhengyi sat on the sofa with a gloomy face, Commissioner Wang sat opposite him, while two senior deputy ministers of the Political Department, Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, sat next to Yu Zhengyi.


    In the middle of the office lay the corpse of Wu Zhi, as the four men looked solemnly at the Political Department investigators and directors busy around the body.


    Under these circumstances, Ji Chen could only stand off to the side with his hands down, not even entitled to a seat.


    Soon, the results of the reexamination of the body came out. The head of the forensic department approached the four men to report the results.


    "Director Yu, Commissioner Wang, Minister Cai, Minister Zhang, after our examination, we have confirmed that the cause of death for Advisor Wu was a bullet that penetrated his skull,"


    "And that bullet, we have already matched with all models and confirmed it to be a type privately manufactured by the Anti-Government Armed Alliance,"


    "As for the bloodstains at the scene, due to the washout from the rain and the chaotic situation at that time, we were unable to find them,"


    "Combining the descriptions of Commissioner Wang, Director Ji, and those present, we have roughly identified the perpetrator as the wanted criminal ''Lone Wolf''."


    After listening to the chief of the forensic department''s report, before Yu Zhengyi could speak, Commissioner Wang could barely hold back his impatience.


    He glanced at Yu Zhengyi and then said with a troubled expression, "Director Yu, right now it truly seems like everything''s coming together at once."


    "We were initially planning to seek advice from Director Yan, but who knew that at this very moment, Director Yan would advance to become a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and be temporarily unable to emerge from his seclusion,"


    "But we can''t keep suppressing the matter of Advisor Wu''s death. We must give Chairman Huang an explanation as soon as possible,"


    "What do you think... who should take charge of this matter?"


    His words said "take charge," but in essence, he was asking who would "take responsibility." So for a moment, Yu Zhengyi''s face also looked rather unpleasant...


    ------

 Chapter 306 - 252: The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Everyone here has been immersed in the bureaucracy for many years, like old foxes, and they all know the most important rule of officialdom: Better to have the lower ranks grumble than to leave a bad impression on your superiors.


    Especially those superiors... who can decide your fate.


    In the past, the appointments of deputy directors and commissioners of various cities in the planning areas were decided by the Sanctuary''s General Investigation Bureau and the Administrative Commissioners'' General Conference.


    Therefore, deputy directors and commissioners used to seek favor with those bigwigs from the Sanctuary who could decide their fate.


    Now, with the establishment of Dongye State, the positions of deputy directors and commissioners of various cities will be decided and adjusted by the Dongye State Council.


    It is even said that after a transitional period, even the authority to adjust the positions of bureau chiefs and first commissioners will be progressively transferred to the State Council.


    As a result, the people whom the deputy directors and commissioners of various cities most want to please have immediately become Chairman Huang Shangzong, who is about to take office in the Dongye State Council!


    This is almost the shared thought of all the big shots from over a dozen cities in the planning areas.


    And now, before Yu Zhengyi has even had the chance to curry favor with this important person, he has to report this terrible news to him? Who can bear this?!


    Therefore, Commissioner Wang does not want to take on this responsibility, and of course, Yu Zhengyi doesn''t want to either.


    Even now, Yu Zhengyi is cursing Ji Chen in his heart: "He never comes to me for good things, but now I''m left carrying this big mess on my back."


    Even if the bureau chief is temporarily unable to make a decision due to other matters, there are two other deputy directors at the same level as him. For such a sensitive matter, why should he be the one to make the decision! This is clearly setting him up!


    Thinking this way, Yu Zhengyi couldn''t help but want to shift the blame away.


    So, he coughed and, without responding to Commissioner Wang''s words, used his best Tai Chi maneuver, dodging the issue, "Commissioner Wang... the thing is, I''m also troubled about this matter."


    "Wu Counselor suddenly had an accident. Our Director Yan is not around either. So right now, in the Investigation Bureau, nobody dares to make a call on this matter."


    "After all, who knows whether Director Yan will be satisfied with the outcome?"


    As he said this, as if he had just remembered something, he continued, "Oh, right, Commissioner Wang."


    "I recall that Wu Counselor came to Xinjie City specifically to visit you, and you were a witness to the entire attack. Perhaps... you could make a decision?"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Commissioner Wang''s chubby face immediately showed signs of distress.


    He waved his hands repeatedly, "No, no. You''re kidding, Director Yu. I, a commissioner in charge of civil affairs, know nothing about handling cases."


    "Even if I report to Chairman Huang, I won''t have any credibility."


    "Therefore, it is still necessary for your Investigation Bureau to provide a comprehensive case report and personally report to Chairman Huang."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s reply, which was as evasive as his own, Yu Zhengyi pursed his lips.


    At this point, willing to discard his own reputation just to shift responsibility, he coughed again and then said, "Commissioner Wang, that''s not right. Our Investigation Bureau operates under the leadership of your Municipal Committee."


    "For such major cases, according to the normal process, we will have to hand it over to the Municipal Committee for review after a thorough investigation."


    "Only if you find no problems can we close the case."


    "So, the person to make the report really should be you, Commissioner Wang."


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Commissioner Wang''s face turned a shade greener.


    What Yu Zhengyi said was not wrong; according to the rules of the Sanctuary, the Investigation Bureau does indeed need to comply with commands from the Municipal Committee.


    But! The problem is that the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has never actually listened to them!


    The highest official of the Municipal Committee, Commissioner Jiang, whose backing was not very strong to begin with and who was relatively soft in character, never had as much influence in Xinjie City as Yan Chen and Ye Mingfeng.


    Therefore, both the military and the Investigation Bureau have always ignored the Municipal Committee, merely tolerating a few noncommittal criticisms.


    But now, with a major incident occurring, the Investigation Bureau suddenly became a subordinate to the Municipal Committee?


    If it weren''t for the fact that he knew he couldn''t physically overpower Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang would honestly like to strangle him right now!


    But Yu Zhengyi was right; Wu Zhi had initially sought out Commissioner Wang, and Wu Zhi''s entire itinerary in Xinjie City was managed by Commissioner Wang.


    So... in theory, it really should be Commissioner Wang who reports the matter. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As such, Commissioner Wang could not directly confront him. Instead, he had to cleverly maneuver, "Director Yu, you jest. Commissioner Jiang always tells us that the Investigation Bureau is our brother institution and possesses strong autonomy."


    "Therefore, since the establishment of Xinjie City this past year, we have never interfered with the affairs of the Investigation Bureau, even treating the occasional document needing approval as a mere formality."


    "And the purpose of Wu Counselor''s visit to Xinjie City was for internal affairs of the Investigation Bureau."


    "He met with an accident while being escorted by the Investigation Bureau''s security, right in front of Minister Qiu and Director Ji."


    "Moreover, you are the professionals, so I think it''s still more appropriate for you all to make the report..."


    Hearing Commissioner Wang''s equally shameless words, Yu Zhengyi chuckled without responding.


    He had realized that Commissioner Wang was as slippery as an eel; their back-and-forth would never yield any result.


    Hence, if they kept dragging their feet and didn''t report to Huang Shangzong, both would be doomed eventually.

 Chapter 307 - 252: The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    But letting him admit to this matter and report it just like that left him feeling somewhat reluctant.


    Therefore, he had no choice but to fall into silence for the moment, contemplating another way to resolve the issue.


    With him not speaking, Commissioner Wang naturally did not speak either. For a time, the atmosphere in the entire office cooled down.


    All the forensic investigators and their supervisors stood there carefully, not daring to make a sound.


    Even potential upper-level figures like Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, and confidants of Yan Chen like Ji Chen, did not dare to make a move, afraid of bringing trouble upon themselves.


    And just when the office was dead silent and the tension was so thick that even the drop of a pin could be heard,


    suddenly, the door to Yu Zhengyi''s office was violently kicked open from the outside.


    With a loud "bang!" the door forcefully hit the wall.


    Everyone was startled and turned to look at the entrance.


    It was at this moment that a woman''s chilly voice also rose in everyone''s ears, "Such a small issue and you keep passing the buck. Do you not have any sense of duty as higher-ups in the Investigation Bureau and City Hall?"


    "If none of you dare take responsibility, then let me bear it!"


    Accompanying those dominant words, the figure of a woman with her entourage also appeared before everyone''s eyes.


    The woman was slender and agile, and that perfectly fitted uniform added to her stature; just one look was enough to sense her healthy physique and inner confidence.


    Opposite Yu Zhengyi''s office was the corridor window, and it was now noon. Although it was a bit misty due to the rain, the scattered sunlight shone on the woman''s silhouette. It still made her look like a goddess of victory.


    Hmm... and it also highlighted the small girl standing next to her, like a cute little potato...


    "Director Tang," "Good afternoon, Director Tang!"


    There were quite a few sharp-eyed investigators present, so when they recognized the newcomers as Tang Feifei and her secretary Su Xiaowan, they all greeted them.


    By this time, Yu Zhengyi, Commissioner Wang, and Cai Peiyuan among other mid-level and senior officials also noticed Tang Feifei.


    They stood up.


    Then Yu Zhengyi looked at Tang Feifei and asked, "Director Tang, what brings you here?"


    After speaking, he didn''t even care about the office door that nearly got wrecked by Tang Feifei but directly asked, "You just said you wanted to take responsibility for this matter?"


    "How do you intend to take responsibility?"


    Upon hearing the greetings from everyone, Tang Feifei nodded coldly, which was her way of responding. Then she didn''t answer Yu Zhengyi''s question directly but waved at him instead, saying, "Old Yu, come out for a second."


    After that, Tang Feifei, with her long legs, turned and walked toward the corridor.


    Since they were on the same level and Tang Feifei had a deep background, being called "Old Yu" by her did not make Yu Zhengyi feel slighted.


    After a moment of thought, as if he had realized something, he hesitated for a moment. Then he gave Commissioner Wang an apologetic smile and stepped out following her.


    At the office entrance, Yu Zhengyi gave his secretary a look, who swiftly reached out to close the door, muffling the sounds within.


    Only then did Yu Zhengyi proceed to follow Tang Feifei.


    By then, Tang Feifei was already standing still in the corridor. She directed Su Xiaowan to the other end of the corridor to keep watch, and then turned her sharp gaze towards Yu Zhengyi as he approached.


    Sensing Tang Feifei''s piercing look, Yu Zhengyi instinctively felt that there was something different about her today. Compared to her restraint and patience over the past year, was today''s Tang Feifei showing a hint of her edge?


    While Yu Zhengyi was thinking this, Tang Feifei looked at him and took the initiative to say, "Old Yu... even though you and Yan Chen are old colleagues,"


    "But... I remember my father once had a period of mentoring you, right?"


    When Tang Feifei suddenly brought this up, Yu Zhengyi, who was adept at playing it safe, felt "thump" in his heart, suddenly having an ominous premonition.


    Sure enough, Tang Feifei didn''t wait for his response and directly looked at him, then said, "I want to make a small deal with you."


    "I can help you take the hit for ''Wu Zhi''s death,'' but I also hope you can do me a favor. A small one..."


    Towards the end, Tang Feifei narrowed her eyes, casting a gaze towards Yu Zhengyi that resembled that of a hunting leopard...


    Yu Zhengyi: ...


    He tried to keep his expression as calm as possible, then after a moment of hesitation, he finally said, "You go first..."


    .....


    While Tang Feifei was executing Qiu Tu''s plan to control Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and marginalize Yan Chen,


    Qiu Tu finally received a call from Director Liu Xiongyuan of Eastern City.


    Qiu Tu had contacted Liu Xiongyuan once before and knew that this legendary figure from the Planning Area had a different demeanor than most politicians he had dealt with.


    Compared to Yan Chen''s cunning and Commissioner Jiang''s ruthless perseverance, Liu Xiongyuan was more like a volatile old man.


    Qiu Tu had seen photos of Liu Xiongyuan: he was dark in complexion, his skin like tempered steel, and his personality was like a volcano on the verge of eruption, always seemingly a second away from losing his temper and lashing out.


    Qiu Tu had heard that as a division chief, the old man had once gotten into a fistfight over a disagreement with a department head, resulting in a disciplinary warning.


    After becoming a bureau chief, his temper had not settled much. The Municipal Committee of Eastern City was often a scene of conflict because of him.


    So, facing this fiery old man, Qiu Tu knew that beating around the bush would only annoy him.


    Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 308 - 252: The Emerging Prominence of Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    So when Qiu Tu picked up the phone, he didn''t even bother with small talk and directly blurted out all the information on Yan Chen to Liu Xiongyuan.


    And when he heard that Yan Chen wanted to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and then compete for the Deputy Speaker position, the little old man really exploded with curses,


    "Goddamn it, that son of a bitch Yan Chen, I knew he wasn''t holding in any good farts!"


    "After that bastard Huang Shangzong got me kicked out, that motherfucker just wants to pick peaches! Doesn''t he even piss to see if he''s fucking worthy!"


    "If it weren''t for the fact that he contributed to the Human Race, I''d have gone up there and sorted him out myself!"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Although last time he called, Liu Xiongyuan''s speech was laced with three swear words per sentence, Qiu Tu was still impressed upon hearing that majestic litany of curses.


    No wonder... Eastern City''s Municipal Committee is always at each other''s throats. Even the most even-tempered person would want to start a fight after being cursed out by Liu Xiongyuan every day.


    Just as Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Xiongyuan continued, "Also, rest assured. Since you''ve told me about this, I definitely won''t sit idly by."


    "Your plan to delay things is good, but it''s not big enough."


    "Just preventing him from becoming Deputy Speaker, that''s fucking letting him off too easy!"


    "You wait till I come over today, I''ll have a good chat with you, and we''ll plan something big!"


    "Forget Deputy Speaker, I''ll fucking make sure he can''t even become a council member!"


    Qiu Tu:??


    Honestly, at that moment, Qiu Tu felt strangely uneasy: by pulling this raging tempest, Liu Xiongyuan, into this game, was it the right or wrong move...? S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    God damn, I hope this doesn''t blow up too much to handle!


    And as Qiu Tu thought this, Liu Xiongyuan, as carelessly as ever, said, "By the way, haven''t you joined a faction since you entered the Investigation Bureau?"


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu paused, asking, "We have factions within the Investigation Bureau?"


    The old man laughed scornfully, "Where there are people, there''s Jianghu; where there are officials, there are factions!"


    "You still doubt this?"


    "No wonder you''ve been bullied by that bastard Yan Chen and the old turtle Huang Shangzong! You''re fighting alone; who else would they bully if not you!"


    After speaking, he paused, then added, "Since you avenged Little Kai and now you''ve told me such important information, I will definitely not let you down."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll introduce you to a big shot tonight after I come over!"


    "As long as you gain his approval, forget Yan Chen; even that old turtle Huang Shangzong won''t be worth a damn to you!"


    Qiu Tu:....


    What could Qiu Tu say? He could only awkwardly chuckle and respond, "Thank you, Director Liu. I''ll wait for you tonight."


    Liu Xiongyuan laughed "haha" twice, and then said, "Alright, see you tonight! Then we''ll discuss together how to deal with that son of a bitch Yan Chen and that old turtle Huang Shangzong!"


    After saying this, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t even wait for Qiu Tu to say goodbye before he hung up the phone, obviously in a rush.


    Hearing the "beep...beep..." from the receiver, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly.


    After this second call with Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu felt he was starting to understand the old man''s true temperament.


    Despite the old man''s foul language and carefree appearance, he was actually thoughtful and had depth.


    That rough talk was just a facade, not only allowing him to be underestimated but also enabling him to control the pace of the conversation forcefully.


    ¡ª Like just now, Qiu Tu couldn''t even get a word in edgewise, and Liu Xiongyuan had steered the conversation and made decisions on his behalf in just a few sentences.


    Moreover... just as Qiu Tu informed Liu Xiongyuan about Yan Chen''s promotion to Fourth-order Cataclysmic as "intelligence" and earned a favor, was Liu Xiongyuan''s introduction of Qiu Tu to his backer really just repaying a favor?


    Qiu Tu thought not.


    Considering the Sanctuary''s big shot was willing to take Liu Xiongyuan under his wing, that big shot probably appreciated people like Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu, who were of humble origins but had extraordinary abilities.


    So, introducing Qiu Tu to that big shot, for Liu Xiongyuan, was not only costless but could even earn him favor in the eyes of that big shot.


    As for the big shot''s power...


    Honestly, Qiu Tu believed the big shot''s status must be high, but probably only similar to Huang Shangzong''s, or maybe just slightly higher.


    If it were really like what Liu Xiongyuan said, that aligning with that big shot would allow him to walk sidewise, then Liu Xiongyuan wouldn''t have been vetoed by Huang Shangzong for the Deputy Speaker''s seat.


    Of course, even so, that big shot was likely the highest-ranking person Qiu Tu could contact at the moment, and perhaps a little help from him could change all of Qiu Tu''s current circumstances...


    ''Indeed... they are all millennia-old foxes. These tricks come one after another....''


    ''I still have much to learn....''


    Feeling this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but start to look forward to the meeting with Liu Xiongyuan and the big shot from the Sanctuary tonight....


    Moreover....


    Apart from meeting these two important individuals tonight, Qiu Tu also had another important matter to attend to.


    That was to try and make contact with the Evil God Girl Lara.


    Although currently Lara seemed to be completely controlled by Yan Chen and was being Devoured by him, soon to become fuel for Yan Chen''s advancement,


    Qiu Tu always felt... with Lara''s cunning, things couldn''t end so simply.


    Or perhaps... even if Lara really took a nasty blow from Yan Chen, she must still have one or two aces up her sleeve to prolong her life forcefully.


    So, Qiu Tu thought if he could contact Lara, maybe he could gain an unexpected windfall?


    Moreover, honestly, Qiu Tu was really curious to know what kind of state and mood the Heretic Goddess Girl would be in after knowing she had been schemed against by Yan Chen....


    ------


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words, the next chapter updates between 23-24 o''clock.

 Chapter 309 - 253: Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Boss~ Boss~~"


    Just as Qiu Tu was pondering over everything he had to do tonight, suddenly a girl''s gentle call rang in his ear.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality, then turned around and saw at the corner of the corridor, the girl Song Qing peering at him sneakily.


    Clearly, she was the one who had been calling him. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu raised his handsome eyebrows, then asked, "What are you doing there?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Song Qing giggled, then scuttled over while crouching.


    When she reached Qiu Tu''s side, she said with a cheerful smile, "Boss, I saw you were on the phone just now, so I didn''t dare come over."


    "Then when I saw you weren''t on the phone anymore, that''s when I called you. I wanted to make sure you weren''t busy before I came looking for you."


    Qiu Tu looked down at her and asked curiously, "Since when have you become so considerate?"


    Song Qing chuckled, then said, "My dad said that. He said you are a big shot now, and big shots definitely have a lot of secrets. So there are things I shouldn''t watch, say, or ask."


    "Being around a big shot like you, the more you know, the quicker you die."


    Qiu Tu burst into laughter upon hearing Song Qing''s words.


    He said, "Your father is quite interesting."


    He then asked back, "So do you think I''ve changed after my promotion?"


    Song Qing thought for a moment, then shook her head, "I haven''t really felt any changes."


    "You still have the same taste as always, liking young wives."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu gave Song Qing a knock on the head and said irritably, "What nonsense are you talking about? When have I ever liked young wives?"


    Song Qing grimaced in pain, then held her little head with both hands and said innocently, "But I''m not wrong."


    "You were all ambiguous with Sister Liu before. After Sister Liu left, you surrounded yourself with Sister Tan."


    "And you dare say you don''t like young wives?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu said in a serious tone, "That''s not liking young wives. Besides, Tan Huimin is not my person, she is just my secretary."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing secretly rolled her adorable eyes, then pursed her lips and whispered, "Ah, yes, yes, the secretary."


    "You big shots sure know how to have fun."


    "Having the secretary do the work when there''s business, and messing with the secretary when there''s none¡ªI get it, I get it...."


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu felt that this girl was like a mango, yellow on the outside and yellow on the inside.


    Young as she was, who knows what she was thinking about all day long.


    So, Qiu Tu couldn''t be bothered to babble on with the girl and instead asked, "What are you here for?"


    Song Qing rubbed her forehead, then said irritably, "Your utterly disinterested in large-breasted, big-bottomed, tempting and beautiful young wife secretary has arrived."


    Qiu Tu:....


    "Off you go!"


    "Bring her here to me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Song Qing toddled off to the main entrance, wiggling her little butt.


    Truth be told, perhaps as his status rose, the people around Qiu Tu respected him more and more.


    Even highly loyal confidants like Cao Dabiao and Chen Feng were somewhat nervous in Qiu Tu''s presence.


    To have someone like Song Qing who hadn''t changed at all and still dared to chat and joke with Qiu Tu was indeed rare.


    Especially since Qiu Tu was now busy and tired with a lot on his plate, sometimes teasing the young girl for fun served as a pastime.


    And as Qiu Tu was thinking this, the girl Song Qing walked in with Tan Huimin from outside.


    Today, Tan Huimin wore her standard secretary outfit and a young wife''s bun hairstyle, revealing her fair swan neck.


    The whole attire made her look professional yet gentle and dignified. She just didn''t look like an Investigation Bureau investigator....


    As Qiu Tu appreciated Tan Huimin up and down, Song Qing also brought Tan Huimin to face Qiu Tu.


    She saluted Qiu Tu and then said with all seriousness, "Boss, your utterly not interested....ouch!"


    With a twist of her butt, Qiu Tu knew that she hadn''t held back a fart, so he quickly gave her a knock on her head to stifle the string of prefixes she had started on.


    "Go, go, go!"


    While listening to Qiu Tu''s teasing scold, Song Qing made a face at Qiu Tu and then scampered away. ¨q(¨s^¨t)¨r


    After watching Song Qing leave, Tan Huimin smoothed the stray hair beside her ear, then turned to Qiu Tu and asked, "You get along quite well with Investigator Song?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took a deep look at her and then said with a deliberate smile, "The relationship is quite good. After all... she''s one of my earliest subordinates."


    "Besides, it''s really rare to encounter someone with such an innocent and cheerful personality in the Planning Area. Every time I see her smile, I feel genuinely happy."


    "She''s like... a sister to me."


    Of course, Qiu Tu was being insincere.


    Song Qing had absolutely no personal relationship with him; she was at most a subordinate with a good rapport.


    He was just used to digging pits in front of others.


    Having no weaknesses, he would just dig a pit and create a false one.


    Tan Huimin''s identity was too complicated now, and no one knew who could get information from her.


    Anyway, those interested in Qiu Tu''s weaknesses were probably up to no good, so it was a triumph for him to trap anyone he could.


    Sure enough, as Qiu Tu thought this, Tan Huimin turned thoughtfully to glance at Song Qing''s retreating figure again...


    After that, she turned back to Qiu Tu, and with a lowered gaze and a pleading tone, said, "Boss... I know there''s some conflict and misunderstanding between you and Ah-Tao."


    "But he really doesn''t have any ill intentions. Please let him go...."

 Chapter 310 - 253: Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After finishing, Tan Huimin "thump" knelt down in front of Qiu Tu, then lowered her head and started crying.


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu felt that the shocks he had received that day were already enough, the information he had taken in already plenty.


    However, Tan Huimin''s sudden action still left him somewhat stunned.


    He took a step back, then rubbed his temples, a bit speechless, and said, "Wait a moment. You want me to let Director Zheng off?"


    "I''m a bit confused?"


    "I didn''t lay a finger on Director Zheng today."


    Now, in front of Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu didn''t seem to have much credibility.


    Hence, Tan Huimin completely disregarded Qiu Tu''s defense; she grabbed her own collar with both hands and then violently pulled, popping several buttons off and revealing her lush, fair skin.


    Tan Huimin looked up, her face tear-stained and humiliated, and she said with a choke, "Chief, I know you''ve always had dishonorable intentions towards me."


    "As long as you let Ah-Tao go, you can do whatever you want to me."


    Qiu Tu: !!


    Qiu Tu was truly defeated!


    The people around him, one after another, were misunderstanding his preferences!


    Song Qing suspected he liked mature women, Tan Huimin thought he had dishonorable intentions towards her!


    But Qiu Tu really wanted to explain one thing: Everything he did was only for investigating the case, to root out the spy! Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He truly was a gentleman!


    So, he quickly reached out to pull Tan Huimin up and then said gravely, "Ma''am, what is this you''re doing!"


    "Considering the corridor is bustling with people, let''s talk inside the room...."


    "As long as you cooperate nicely, I''m not incapable of letting Director Zheng off...."


    .....


    Old Bai was now under Qiu Tu''s control, so naturally, Qiu Tu could commandeer any room in the villa.


    Therefore, after Qiu Tu fixed Tan Huimin''s collar, he took her to an unoccupied bedroom.


    Upon entering the bedroom, Qiu Tu locked the door behind them.


    Tan Huimin then consciously began unbuttoning her blouse.


    Shortly, the blouse came undone, revealing Tan Huimin''s ample Monthly Ticket and the profound ravine.


    Paired with that white lace bra and delicate waist, not to mention... it was a spectacular sight.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on her for a moment, then he spoke, "All right, there''s no one here. Tell me what happened to Director Zheng."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, who was about to take off her form-fitting mini skirt, paused and then looked at Qiu Tu with confusion.


    Qiu Tu brushed past her and made his way to a rocking chair by the window. As he sat down, he looked toward Tan Huimin, who had stopped undressing, and said, "Well? If you don''t tell me, how can I save Director Zheng."


    Tan Huimin gave Qiu Tu a somewhat strange look upon hearing this, then she said with doubt, "It really... wasn''t you who did it?"


    Because she was still bent over, the act of breathing made her already ample Monthly Ticket look as if it was nearly bursting free...


    The pleasing view even made Qiu Tu feel relaxed. He said, "Does it matter whether it was me or not?"


    "Isn''t it enough that I can help you?"


    When she heard Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin thought it made sense, so she quickly approached Qiu Tu and told him everything that had happened to Zheng Tao in detail.


    Possibly because she needed Qiu Tu''s help, or knowing that her body was her only value at this point, she did her utmost to please Qiu Tu as she recounted the story.


    Not only did she lean over to offer Qiu Tu the most beautiful view, but she even proactively massaged his legs.


    Though her movements were clumsy, being the enemy''s wife added to her appeal, coupled with Tan Huimin''s exquisitely curvaceous yet sensuous body that was on display, which made for full emotional value.


    And through Tan Huimin''s narrative, Qiu Tu also roughly learned what had happened with Zheng Tao, or rather, within the Investigation Bureau.


    According to Tan Huimin, it was as if... the heavens of the Investigation Bureau had changed.


    While Qiu Tu was making calls, planning his confrontation with Yan Chen,


    Tang Feifei was not idle either.


    In these past few hours, she began frantically executing her and Qiu Tu''s plan.


    She first led a team into Yu Zhengyi''s office, then called him out for a talk that lasted 15 minutes.


    No one knew what was discussed during the meeting, but everyone was aware of its outcome: Yu Zhengyi had defected.


    He betrayed Yan Chen and sided with Tang Feifei''s camp.


    Although he did not explicitly support Tang Feifei''s decisions, he also did not oppose them. He began to watch coldly from the sidelines.


    Afterwards, Tang Feifei began her path to power.


    She first took over the case of Huang Shangzong''s confidant Wu Zhi, then had her people re-examine the body at the crime scene and perform another autopsy on Wu Zhi.


    After confirming that Wu Zhi had indeed been killed by a powerful force and the bullet came from United Front, with all features of the killer matching those of a wanted fugitive "Lone Wolf," she promptly closed the case.


    Following that, she began the purge within the Investigation Bureau, using the case as a pretext.


    Firstly, she suspended Ji Chen, Yan Chen''s confidant assistant, on grounds of gross incompetence.


    Then, based on evidence signed and found in Wu Zhi''s personal documents, she detained people under the guise of "framing and sabotage against the high ranks of the Investigation Bureau."


    Next, using Yan Chen''s present ill-health as an excuse, she convened a meeting of the Investigation Bureau''s high-ranking officials to determine future work deployment.


    The senior officials attending the meeting, apart from her and Yu Zhengyi, included only Deputy Director Lai Shun, Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin, Public Security Bureau Director Guan Weihua, and Special Service Department Director Lin Ting.


    Out of the original nine top-ranking officials, some had died, others were captured, some were in retreat, leaving only these six.

 Chapter 311 - 253: Taking Control of the Investigation Bureau (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    As soon as the meeting started, Lai Shun and others wanted to sarcastically comment on Tang Feifei, saying that she was utterly unqualified to preside over the meeting or to oversee the work of the Investigation Bureau.


    But Tang Feifei simply produced two documents.


    The first was the authorization to "arrest Secretary Bai" from the Sanctuary, obtained by Qiu Tu and her the night before.


    The second was Wu Zhi''s case closure report.


    Then, she made only three statements.


    The first was, "Bai Yu is suspected of colluding with an Evil God, and we now suspect that there are followers of the Evil God among the senior ranks."


    The second was, "Wu Zhi''s case closure report is here, some people want to oversee the big picture at the Investigation Bureau. Fine, no problem. Then please report to Huang Shangzong on your own."


    The third was, "I''ve finished speaking, and now while Director Yan is absent, I''d like to temporarily preside over the major affairs of the Investigation Bureau. Who supports, and who opposes?"


    After these three statements, the meeting of senior officials was almost dead silent.


    The first statement was a blatant threat: if she could arrest Bai Yu, then of course she could control the senior officials present.


    Even if they later found they had arrested the wrong person and then released him, the arrested official obviously wouldn''t be able to preside over work.


    The second statement clarified that the situation at the Investigation Bureau wasn''t stable and smooth, but that it was sitting on a massive minefield.


    She was confident that after taking over, this mine wouldn''t explode under her. But who else present dared hold the same confidence.


    The third statement was an implication, enticing everyone: she was only temporarily presiding over the Investigation Bureau in Yan Chen''s absence, not actually usurping power.


    When Yan Chen returned, she would still be the minority in the senior officials'' meeting, as if not stirring any waves.


    Therefore, under Tang Feifei''s display of both strength and weakness, even holding the trump card of "Wu Zhi''s death," the senior officials hesitated for a long time, smoked several cigarettes, exchanged many glances, and ultimately acquiesced to Tang Feifei''s leading position in the Investigation Bureau....


    Thus, Tang Feifei successfully ascended to the highest seat of power within the Investigation Bureau.


    This was the path to seizing power that Qiu Tu had planned for Tang Feifei when he phoned her.


    To put it plainly, the scheme wasn''t ingenious. But it made full use of the tense and delicate situation of the moment.


    The death of Wu Zhi, the imminent establishment of Dongye State, the attitude of the senior officials ingratiating themselves to Huang Shangzong, the arrest of Secretary Bai, the Diciplinary Department''s special arrest permit, and Yan Chen''s temporary promotion....


    As for why they had to first deal with Yu Zhengyi.


    It was because, in the Investigation Bureau, aside from Secretary Bai, the person Yan Chen relied on most was this high-ranking Deputy Director.


    Moreover, Yu Zhengyi was actually the number one ranked Deputy Director within the entire Investigation Bureau, truly second only to one but above tens of thousands.


    Hence, if Yan Chen could arrange for someone to take charge before his promotion, it would only be Yu Zhengyi.


    Therefore, as long as Yu Zhengyi was kept in check, the others would be like snakes whose vital points were grasped, ready to be manipulated by Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu.


    This entire plan was conjured and designed by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei together.


    But Qiu Tu truly hadn''t expected Tang Feifei to move so fast, and in just a few hours, she had control of the Investigation Bureau.


    While this was only nominal control, that was exactly what Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei needed. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As long as they had "justice" on their side, they could freely install confidants and use the powers of the Investigation Bureau during this sensitive period, which was incredibly important.


    In time, there would certainly be senior officials who would realize something was off and raise objections.


    But Qiu Tu''s other strategic plan was to use the trump card of "Wu Zhi''s death" to its fullest extent, to create massive turbulence....


    ----

 Chapter 312 - 254: Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Long after learning of Tang Feifei''s true background from Secretary Bai, Qiu Tu had discovered Tang Feifei''s greatest advantage.


    That was... she was the strongest backer in Xinjie City, the only one who didn''t need to cater to Huang Shangzong''s whims.


    As a talent heavily cultivated by her family, almost every step Tang Feifei took was safeguarded by her family''s support.


    Even when Tang Feifei was thrown into the lion''s den of Yan Chen''s stronghold, Xinjie City, for a test, her family never ceased to assist her. This was evident from the fact that she could summon her second uncle at the press of a button.


    And because of this powerful background and influence, while others had to please Huang Shangzong, Tang Feifei didn''t have to do such things.


    Therefore, the death of Wu Zhi was a significant event for other Deputy Directors and committee members, but for Tang Feifei, it really wasn''t a big deal.


    Things then became simple:


    Tang Feifei couldn''t determine the fates of those Deputy Directors and committee members, so they didn''t care about her;


    Huang Shangzong could determine their fates, so those Deputy Directors and committee members didn''t dare offend him;


    And Tang Feifei wasn''t afraid of Huang Shangzong, nor did she care much about his influence on her;


    So... Tang Feifei could entirely take on the "death of Wu Zhi" case, using it to indirectly squeeze the soft spots of those Deputy Directors and committee members.


    For instance... she could take on the case but suppress the report, delaying the process.


    As long as she didn''t escalate the case each day, those Deputy Directors and committee members would have to play by her rules for that day, and she and Qiu Tu could roam freely in Xinjie City!


    Even if Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei went too far during this time, causing dissatisfaction or questioning at higher levels, as long as Tang Feifei brought out the "death of Wu Zhi" card, looking like she would hand it over for them to deal with, they too had to back down¡ªafter all, human nature is selfish, and no one wants to sacrifice themselves for the collective good.


    Moreover, the longer the "death of Wu Zhi" case was dragged on, the heavier the storm it would bring, and the less anyone would dare to take it on.


    And so... the less anyone would dare to oppose Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    With such a strong trump card at hand that could always be used to manipulate the Investigation Bureau''s higher-ups, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei could afford to do much during this period.


    So, Wu Zhi could really be considered to have delivered his head over thousands of miles, helping Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to weather this storm.


    Every time he thought of this, Qiu Tu would feel grateful for Mr. Wu Zhi''s righteousness.


    As for whether the excessive actions taken by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would backfire once Yan Chen returned, this was something both had considered.


    Compared to the potential backlash from their actions, the threat posed by Yan Chen becoming Deputy Speaker seemed significantly greater to them.


    Moreover¡­ when Qiu Tu was planning, he had predicted the future many times and made numerous adjustments to his plans. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He was confident that as long as the plan could be implemented successfully and completed, even if Yan Chen returned in the future, the impact on him and Tang Feifei would be minimal...


    Thinking in this manner and having listened to Tang Feifei''s movements within the Investigation Bureau for the past few hours, Qiu Tu also had a good grasp of Tan Huimin''s purpose in coming to him.


    So he lifted Tan Huimin''s chin with his hand, making her look up at him; then he clicked his tongue twice and said, "Wife, I''ve listened to all you''ve said."


    "At times, I thought I must have heard you wrong."


    "You seem to say... Director Zheng met with Wu Counselor today and recorded a statement."


    "The statement not only accused me of messing around with men and women in the Investigation Bureau, but also alleged that I silenced an important criminal, accepted bribes from a criminal''s family, and even let criminals go free?"


    "And that he was detained because he fabricated false evidence against me?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu pinched Tan Huimin''s chin and said ominously, "So here comes the question. What do you think he has to pay to quell the anger in my heart and choose to forgive him, or even to rescue him...?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin gently bit her lip, her eyes reddening.


    Actually... long before Zheng Tao prepared to meet Wu Zhi and frame Qiu Tu, Tan Huimin had discussed this issue with Zheng Tao.


    Possibly because she had witnessed her boss''s cunning and strategic planning in recent days, Tan Huimin was firmly against Zheng Tao opposing Qiu Tu.


    She found it too risky.


    No one knew if Qiu Tu had any contingency plans, nor whether Wu Zhi could truly bring Qiu Tu down.


    If Qiu Tu really had a contingency, or if Wu Zhi failed, Wu Zhi could walk away, but Zheng Tao couldn''t.


    Then, Qiu Tu would definitely seek harsh revenge against Zheng Tao.


    But, whether due to a growing rift between the couple or because Zheng Tao truly hated Qiu Tu so much, no matter how Tan Huimin tried to persuade him, Zheng Tao still resolutely went to meet Wu Zhi in the end.


    And indeed, things turned out as Tan Huimin had expected, with Wu Zhi not only failing to bring down Qiu Tu but even losing his life.


    The affair of Wu Zhi''s death caused a stir within the Investigation Bureau, with all sorts of speculations abounding. Some said the United Front was out for Wu Zhi''s assassination; others claimed the United Front was seeking revenge on Qiu Tu but missed their first shot; there were also those who said... it was Qiu Tu silencing someone.


    The first two speculations were dismissed by Tan Huimin in a second. As soon as the incident occurred, her first reaction was that Qiu Tu had shot Wu Zhi.


    Possibly because she had been toyed with and brought to tears by Qiu Tu before, Tan Huimin was all too familiar with Qiu Tu''s methods.

 Chapter 313 - 254: Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    She knew that Qiu Tu was just such a bold yet calculating person. He was capable of shooting a special envoy and yet not getting burned himself!


    That was also why, after Zheng Tao was arrested, she had come to find Qiu Tu at the first opportunity, wanting to save Zheng Tao¡ªshe truly believed that Zheng Tao''s arrest was Qiu Tu''s retaliatory strike.


    Of course, now that Tan Huimin had explained the whole situation to Qiu Tu, she guessed that this wasn''t Qiu Tu''s doing.


    But from Qiu Tu''s calm reaction, Tan Huimin still sharply sensed that even if he wasn''t responsible for this matter, he might very well have been involved in the Investigation Bureau''s power grab.


    In other words... Qiu Tu still had the ability to rescue her husband.


    Thinking this, Tan Huimin also made up her mind.


    Having been around Qiu Tu for two days, Tan Huimin knew that this man had one major weakness¡ªthat was his lustfulness.


    From the throngs of women surrounding Qiu Tu, from the way he looked at her, and from how he would take advantage whenever he could, Tan Huimin knew that Qiu Tu had been eyeing her for a long time.


    So, she knew what could attract Qiu Tu, what could exchange for her husband''s safety.


    Thinking so, Tan Huimin couldn''t help but look resolutely at Qiu Tu and then said, "I don''t know what kind of price you need to be willing to save my husband."


    "But I want to say, I can pay any price. And that includes... me."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu wasn''t at all surprised. He had already seen through Tan Huimin''s inner thoughts in the corridor. So he chuckled lightly, not spoiling her in the least.


    He withdrew his hand, then leaned back in his rocking chair, eyeing Tan Huimin like an item for sale, and gestured with his hand, "Then let''s begin."


    "Let me experience Madam Zheng''s skills."


    "Don''t worry, as long as you can make my brother comfortable, I won''t make things difficult for Director Zheng."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu agreed so readily, Tan Huimin suddenly hesitated for a moment.


    Her beautiful oval face was full of conflict and uncertainty, as if she was struggling with a final decision in her heart.


    After a moment, she clutched the corner of her already unbuttoned blouse, then turned her face away, trying a last rescue, "I got my period today. Can we do this another day?"


    "Oh? Is that so?" Qiu Tu looked at Tan Huimin''s profile.


    It had to be said, this woman truly had a unique charm. She was very beautiful, had a kind of softness typical of women from the south of the Yangtze River, yet her personality was very decisive and stubborn.


    This contrast in temperament added to her an unusual allure.


    Added to that, she was now kneeling at Qiu Tu''s feet, her blouse open, revealing to Qiu Tu''s sight her full, soft mounds and flat abdomen...


    Therefore, Qiu Tu got up again, took hold of Tan Huimin''s chin, and turned her face slowly so that she was looking directly at him.


    Then Qiu Tu looked at her with an indifferent gaze and commanded, "Then show me your wounded, bleeding spot."


    "I want to verify it personally."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin''s body trembled slightly.


    With just that simple movement, Qiu Tu understood that Tan Huimin was lying to him.


    So Qiu Tu was even more composed, he let go of Tan Huimin''s chin, gestured and said, "Come on, show me."


    Tan Huimin bit her lip, her hand clutching her blouse, looking at Qiu Tu. Trying one last struggle, she said, "I... am a married woman."


    For a moment, Qiu Tu even laughed, "Madam, you must have never watched the soccer matches before the Era of Disaster, right? Goals scored by goalkeepers are even more exciting." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At these words, Tan Huimin took a deep breath. Then, as if she had made up her mind, she finally slowly got up, and with her eyes closed, she began to undo her restraints, one by one...


    Soon, her slender legs were surrounded by a pile of clothing.


    When the last restraint was undone, Tan Huimin''s body shook again, and a tear slowly rolled down from the corner of her eye.


    Qiu Tu was lying on the rocking chair, looking up at Tan Huimin. Tan Huimin''s skin was as white as milk, and unobstructed now, she was like a sculpture made of white jade. She was stunningly beautiful.


    A hint of admiration and appreciation flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes, suddenly feeling that Zheng Tao trading with the Evil God for this woman seemed understandable, after all.


    Thinking this, he got up and slowly walked over to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin seemed to sense Qiu Tu''s approach, and her hands crossed involuntarily over her chest.


    Qiu Tu, however, embraced her without hesitation, his hand boldly venturing downward, delving inside.


    His fingers slid slickly.


    Tan Huimin''s body jolted violently.


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue and said, "Madam, your body is still quite honest, huh."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu withdrew his fingers, wiped them on Tan Huimin''s full, soft flesh, then picked up the blouse and draped it over her.


    Afterward, he walked directly toward the outside of the house without a hint of nostalgia.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s departure, Tan Huimin was momentarily stunned. She was already beyond caring about the shame and indignation in her heart. She opened her eyes, turned around, and called out to Qiu Tu, "The thing you promised me..."


    Qiu Tu waved his hand dismissively without turning back.


    Seeing this gesture, Tan Huimin couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief, thinking that Qiu Tu had agreed to her terms.


    But just then, Qiu Tu turned around, laughed and scolded her, "Did you really think that offering your body could save your husband?"


    "Madam, have you been watching too many plot-based adult films?"


    "Use your brain, would you?"


    After saying that, Qiu Tu "heh-heh" chuckled twice, throwing out the sentence, "Zheng Tao dares to frame me, he''s a dead man. That''s what I said."

 Chapter 314 - 254: Madam, Your Body is Very Truthful (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Then he left the bedroom without looking back.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s back, which held not the slightest hint of reluctance, Tan Hui Min''s eyes filled with shock and loss. Then she crossed her legs and collapsed to the ground.


    She gazed vacantly at the closed door, just watching it for a long time.


    After a while, she hugged her clothes and burst into tears....


    .....


    At the same time, outside the bedroom door, Qiu Tu leaned against the wall, lit a cigarette, and cursed under his breath.


    His actions just now might have looked cool, but in fact, it was extremely hard for him to restrain himself!


    But he didn''t dare! Until he figured out what powers Larilo had used on Tan Hui Min and Madame Kong, Qiu Tu could only satiate his eyes and hands as he just did. He didn''t dare to actually make a move.


    After all, there would always be women, ah, no, beauties, but one only has one life.


    Larilo is now in a great crisis. If she successfully manipulates him and drags him down, allowing her to turn the tides against all odds, Qiu Tu guessed that even death wouldn''t bring him peace!


    ''So... I still need to probe into Larilo tonight.''


    ''I need to check her current status, find her trump card, and then test what sort of deal she made with Zheng Tao and his wife, Tan Hui Min....''


    ''Otherwise, it''s too tantalizing to have such a delicious cake in front of me and not be able to eat it.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu naturally followed this train of thought to Zheng Tao.


    Remembering that Zheng Tao went so far as to frame him to put him to death, Qiu Tu''s eyes couldn''t help but flash with a chill.


    Originally, his conflicts with Zheng Tao were just minor frictions, minor disputes. Even after he found out Zheng Tao had sided with the Evil God, it was simply a matter of different camps and positions, not involving personal feelings.


    Thus, even when Zheng Tao willingly sent Tan Hui Min to Qiu Tu, he didn''t plan on making a move, merely taking the opportunity to extract information.


    But now that Zheng Tao had framed him, everything was different: it meant that Zheng Tao had personally taken up against Qiu Tu.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ''heh heh'' to himself.


    ''Director Zheng, you''re asking for it. Whatever I do next, I won''t feel burdened....''


    ''Don''t worry.... After you''re gone, I''ll take good care of your wife.''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t take the matter too seriously, instead pushing it to the back of his mind for the time being¡ªTan Hui Min was just dessert after the meal, and he had more important matters to deal with tonight....


    ...


    And so, the day passed quickly.


    That evening at 8 o''clock.


    Qiu Tu met the legendary Director Liu, Liu Xiongyuan, in the Fuxing Tea House in the suburbs of Xinjie City.


    He looked almost exactly as Qiu Tu had seen in photographs.


    Liu Xiongyuan was tall and lean, his face marked with deep wrinkles, bearing the hard countenance of years, his skin dark, but his hair and beard completely white!


    What stood out the most were his eyebrows. His eyebrows were thick and rugged, like two white swords pointing to the sky.


    Unlike his cold demeanor towards Jia Wei, upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Xiongyuan was as joyous as if meeting an old friend, expressing great happiness.


    He patted Qiu Tu on the back and said excitedly, "I''ve always wanted to meet you, kid, to thank you in person. But I''ve had no chance."


    "Who would have thought that Yan Chen, that bastard, would create an opportunity for us to meet with this move of his."


    "It''s like fate."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu replied humbly yet confidently, "Meeting today really is fate. After all, I too have long admired Director Liu."


    Liu Xiongyuan was the type who preferred practical work to insincere formalities, so after hearing Qiu Tu''s flattering words, he just laughed heartily twice, then took Qiu Tu by the hand to sit down and started discussing serious matters.


    The two were in a private room of the Fuxing Tea House, which was entirely controlled by Liu Xiongyuan''s guards, so there were no worries about eavesdropping.


    "Qiu Tu, your plan to delay Yan Chen''s advancement was indeed excellent."


    "From finding this unique angle to break the situation, one can see that you really do have some skills."


    "But..." Here, Liu Xiongyuan pointed out, "Breaking the game is not just about deflecting moves or turning a crisis into an opportunity."


    "It''s about efficiently utilizing all the resources at hand, following the trend of the times."


    "Only by doing so can you leverage a small cost into a huge benefit."


    Leaning back in his chair, Liu Xiongyuan then asked, "So, what do you think is the current trend? What can be leveraged?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment, then asked, "Isn''t the establishment of Dongye State the big trend?"


    Liu Xiongyuan slightly shook his dark face and replied, "There''s more. Another key event is happening."


    Qiu Tu frowned and thought for a moment.


    Shortly after, as if something had dawned on him, he said with realization, "Are you referring to Moonlight Lake, Director Liu?"


    Moonlight Lake involved a major treasure trove that attracted the attention of various powers in both Xinjie City and Eastern City, and even the Evil God.


    It was said to contain 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, enough to make thousands of bottles of Cataclysmic Potion. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This was, beyond the establishment of Dongye State, the most significant event in the Planning Area.


    Yan Chen had been so busy during the previous period precisely because of the Moonlight Lake project.


    With Liu Xiongyuan''s reminder, Qiu Tu quickly came to an understanding.


    His mind racing, he ventured, "You mean... Moonlight Lake is a top priority for Xinjie City, and it''s one of the tasks Yan Chen has been focusing on and responsible for."


    "If he misses out on this event, and perhaps even makes some blunders, could it be that when he advances to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver, not only will he have no merits, but he''ll also have faults?"


    Still, 2 chapters, 10,000 words. Requesting Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 315 - 255: Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Seeing that Qiu Tu understood his meaning, Liu Xiongyuan nodded with satisfaction.


    The short elder clearly had his own style of doing things. After completing his teaching, he directly began to explain.


    He grinned and said, "Yes. The biggest problem with Yan Chen''s promotion is not only the timing of Dongye State''s establishment."


    "But that his own work has yet to be fully arranged."


    "The Moonlight Lake that will soon form between Xinjie City and Eastern City isn''t just a matter concerning the two cities."


    "Such a large treasure is even attracting some attention from the Sanctuary."


    "In fact, this is one of the important reasons why Dongye State was established so quickly."


    As he spoke, Liu Xiongyuan stretched out his dark hand and made a gesture of closing his fingers together, then said, "So... as long as we prevent Yan Chen from catching up with the formation of Moonlight Lake, and make him miss this most important task in the near future." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Then it''s not about whether he can compete for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, but rather... whether he will be charged with dereliction of duty, receive a warning from the Sanctuary, or even be demoted or reassigned...."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu appeared thoughtful.


    It had to be said, the old ginger is still spicier.


    Qiu Tu had actually done very well before. After all, following Yan Chen''s sudden breakout, he didn''t panic or worry but actively used the situation to think of thwarting Yan Chen''s progress and turn the tide against the wind.


    But Liu Xiongyuan''s move, exploiting the current situation, not only destroyed Yan Chen''s conspiracy but even dealt a bigger blow to him, was clearly better.


    ''It seems I really should learn more from these old fellows,'' Qiu Tu thought.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu humbly asked, "Director Liu, then... how can we make Yan Chen miss this opportunity?"


    "Can the time when Moonlight Lake forms really be controlled by people?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Xiongyuan "hehe" smiled, revealing his big yellow teeth.


    This old man really didn''t carry the air of a superior. If someone dropped him at a harbor and told Qiu Tu he was a boat tracker, Qiu Tu probably would''ve believed it.


    This also made Qiu Tu curious as to how such a character could climb to his current position step by step in the Planning Area and how he made Eastern City''s Investigation Bureau a benchmark of the Planning Area.


    What kind of charm did he possess?


    While Qiu Tu was pondering this, Liu Xiongyuan also answered Qiu Tu''s previous question.


    He said, "The time when Moonlight Lake forms indeed can be controlled."


    Liu Xiongyuan explained, "Cataclysmic Materials like Moonlight Lake and Tears of Moonlight, ultimately, are all products of the concentration and qualitative transformation of Cataclysmic Power from the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "The reason we could predict the birth of Moonlight Lake in advance is because we found increasingly high concentrations of Cataclysmic Power in the corresponding area of the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "After that, based on the analysis of the content of Cataclysmic Power, and scientific judgments made from the physical matter and topography of both realms."


    "So, theoretically, if we add more Cataclysmic Power to this terrain, we can hasten its formation."


    "Moreover, you should know that this Moonlight Lake is already nearing a critical point of formation."


    "Perhaps... just a small change could immediately catalyze it."


    Qiu Tu didn''t take Liu Xiongyuan''s words at face value. He sat up straight, looked at Liu Xiongyuan seriously, and inquired, "Since there''s such a way to give birth to Moonlight Lake in advance."


    "Then why haven''t you used it and have been waiting instead?"


    "The longer you wait, the more forces will set their sights on this Moonlight Lake. So it seems more sensible to secure the prize sooner rather than later, which aligns more with the interests of Xinjie City, Eastern City, and even the Sanctuary, doesn''t it?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed slightly, then he continued to analyze on his own, "Therefore, there must be other reasons you haven''t done so."


    "Like... the distribution of interests has not been completed, and pushing for the premature arrival of Moonlight Lake would intensify conflicts?"


    "Like... the premature birth of Moonlight Lake could lead to unknown changes, such as reducing the purity of the Tears of Moonlight?"


    "Or maybe¡­"


    At this, Qiu Tu paused, then said, "perhaps the conditions required to hasten the birth of Moonlight Lake are quite harsh and difficult to meet."


    "Even for you, it would be hard to achieve."


    "And now, the reason you dare to propose this idea is probably because certain conditions have been satisfied?"


    "For instance... the celestial change and Illusion of the Law triggered by Yan Chen''s promotion to a Fourth Order Catastrophe-evolver."


    When he heard Qiu Tu''s flowing analysis, a flicker of surprise crossed Liu Xiongyuan''s eyes.


    As one of the Three Giants of a city himself, he didn''t have the devious mind that Yan Chen had, but was extremely expressive with his emotions.


    Looking at Qiu Tu, he praised, "I''ve heard from Fuping that you are extraordinary, with vast insights and profound plans."


    "At the time, I thought she hadn''t seen much of the world."


    "Now that I''ve met you, I see that she wasn''t mistaken."


    At this, the admiration in Liu Xiongyuan''s eyes almost overflowed as he said, "You... are really quite good."


    Having said that, Liu Xiongyuan''s tone suddenly changed, and then he said, "By the way, do you have any interest in taking a position in Eastern City?"


    "Under Yan Chen, you won''t have much of a future. That bastard does nothing but play dark schemes all day and leads all the good talents astray!"


    "Eastern City is different.


    "We judge everything based on your ability and achievements!"


    "As long as you have the capacity and can solve major cases, your promotions will be as rapid as riding a rocket."


    "And, even if you''ve reached the top end in the city, I''ll still recommend you to other cities or to the Sanctuary!"

 Chapter 316 - 255: Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (10k Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    He patted his chest and promised earnestly, "Without going into other details, once you''re there, I assure you that you''ll be promoted to Division Chief within a year. After a transitional period in that position, you''ll take over the Political Department and enter the high-level cadre."


    "In a few more years, whether I''m promoted or I step down, you could move up another step and become a Deputy Director."


    As he said this, perhaps worried that Qiu Tu might misunderstand the speed of this promotion,


    he further explained with a serious face, "You must not measure by the promotion speed you''ve experienced recently."


    "The speed at which you were promoted during this period is actually something one hopes for but cannot expect."


    "Firstly, officials below the level of Deputy Staff, the Sanctuary doesn''t even bother to know."


    "And for officials below the level of Deputy Division Chief, although the Sanctuary takes count, it never interferes; those decisions are left to the Bureau Chiefs of each Investigation Bureau."


    "So, you might feel you''ve been promoted many times, but in fact... you''ve yet to even qualify for the Sanctuary''s notice."


    "Secondly... Division Chief is a watershed."


    "According to the customs of the Sanctuary, even if ordinary citizens from the Planning Area perform exceptionally well, they can only rise as high as Deputy Division Chief at most."


    "Only those who are absorbed by the major factions of the Sanctuary, trained there, and passed the golden test of being one of us, might have a chance to climb higher."


    "And even then, above Division Chief, each level is a ladder to the heavens, where capability, luck, and background are indispensable."


    "Therefore, being able to guarantee your smooth rise to the role of Deputy Director within a few years is already the greatest sincerity I can offer."


    Listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu actually felt quite touched in his heart.


    He felt he was beginning to understand what Liu Xiongyuan was thinking: Liu Xiongyuan was likely projecting the expectations he had for his son onto him because he had helped to avenge his son''s death.


    That''s why he was paving the way for him, and why he was being so open and honest.


    If Qiu Tu weren''t a transmigrator, without the Golden Finger, without so many confidants and subordinates in Xinjie City, maybe he truly would have agreed.


    But now... Qiu Tu had painstakingly established such a good situation in Xinjie City, going to Eastern City would mean starting all over again.


    Thus, almost without hesitation, Qiu Tu smiled and declined, "Thank you for your kind intention, elder. But I am not alone; I have many brothers, confidants, and subordinates behind me."


    "If I were to up and leave like this, they would struggle to make their way in Xinjie City."


    "And once I went to Eastern City, without their support, I would be like rootless duckweed."


    "So... even if it might be a slower development in Xinjie, even if it might be more difficult and troublesome because of Yan Chen, I still wish to continue my advancement from Xinjie City."


    "Only then will each step I take be more solid."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan looked at him deeply, grinned with a show of teeth, and then patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder hard, "Ambitious."


    Liu Xiongyuan said, "Since that''s the case, I will introduce you to one of my former leaders today. Let''s see if you can win his favor."


    "If you manage to gain his approval, later I can take you to mingle with some other colleagues more frequently. By then, you would be able to join our faction; at least the path up to Bureau Chief won''t pose any problems."


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu, who had already learned about Liu Xiongyuan''s faction from Tang Feifei that afternoon, did not refuse.


    He nodded slightly and said sincerely, "Thank you, elder."


    The entire floor of Fuxing Tea House was sealed off by the guards brought by Liu Xiongyuan, so there was no worry of anyone coming in to disturb them.


    Therefore, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t delay. He checked the time, and seeing that it was the appointed time, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a black metal box.


    The box was exquisitely made and elegant, with the emblem of the Investigation Bureau engraved on it.


    After placing the metal box on the table, Liu Xiongyuan pressed a few buttons on it, and the next second, the box opened, revealing a dial pad. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu looked on curiously and then saw Liu Xiongyuan enter a lengthy 13-digit number, followed by pressing a white button on the dial pad.


    The next moment, a green holographic screen suddenly appeared above the small box. The screen showed no images, only a "Connecting" prompt.


    ''A remote video call?'' Qiu Tu thought hesitantly in his heart. ''Is this the effect of a Cataclysmic treasure or a technological product?''


    While Qiu Tu was considering this, the next second, the green holographic screen displayed the figure of a middle-aged man.


    He wore a neat suit and looked stern and serious.


    Liu Xiongyuan was obviously quite familiar with him, and as soon as he saw him, he said with a smile, "Secretary Fang, does Elder Wang have time now?"


    "There may be some new developments here in Dongye State that I plan to report to him."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, the middle-aged man also showed a slight smile, "Director Liu. I am aware of this matter; Elder Wang specially mentioned it to me today."


    After finishing, he said, "Please wait a moment, let me check if Elder Wang has finished his brief meeting."


    With his words, the image on the screen froze.


    And Qiu Tu also recalled information about Elder Wang in his mind.


    That afternoon, Qiu Tu had managed to gather some information about Liu Xiongyuan and the elder Wang behind him from Tang Feifei.


    According to Tang Feifei, Liu Xiongyuan was a key member of the Sanctuary''s Reformist Faction, highly favored by the faction leader Wang Guochuan.


    The Reformist Faction was one of the major factions among the high echelons of the Sanctuary, with the political stance of "New-style Three Principles of the People," focusing on democracy, civil rights, and livelihood!

 Chapter 317 - 255: Contact with Sanctuary Bigwigs (10k Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    This faction has a notable characteristic, in that it lacks the core founders of the Sanctuary, and the majority originate from lower-class families with ordinary backgrounds....


    So, their primary political demand is to break the lifelong tenure of the Sanctuary''s upper echelon, open the upward development channel for the middle level, and carry out reasonable democratic elections.


    Of course, compared to the Sanctuary''s conservative faction, the strength of the Reformist Faction is clearly not strong, so this political demand has never been successfully achieved.


    However, even so, over the past few years, due to the continuous influx of new forces, the power of the Reformist Faction within the entire Sanctuary has been growing stronger.


    And the most significant sign of this is that the leader of the Reformist Faction, Wang Guochuan, was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Eighth Sanctuary''s Supreme Council.


    This signifies that the Reformist Faction has officially become a significant force within the Sanctuary.


    While introducing Liu Xiongyuan, Wang Guochuan, and the intelligence on the Reformist Faction, Tang Feifei also analyzed Qiu Tu''s potential growth paths. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    According to Tang Feifei''s analysis, whether or not Qiu Tu is willing, his origin as a commoner from the Planning Area has already deeply branded him with the "Reformist Faction."


    Unless Qiu Tu is selected by some big figure from another faction and forcibly pulled into their faction, he could only follow the "Reformist Faction''s" path.


    Moreover, even if a big figure does select Qiu Tu and pulls him into their faction, due to his lack of an impeccable lineage, there''s a high likelihood he would just be a peripheral member, and his prospects for development might not be as good as within the "Reformist Faction."


    After all, within the "Reformist Faction," at least on the surface, everyone''s background is the same, and one''s ability to become a core member of the faction relies entirely on competence.


    So, it''s somewhat fairer.


    Of course... there is another option that Tang Feifei didn''t mention. Qiu Tu guessed it, but he didn''t ask.


    That is... Qiu Tu could also change his status through marriage.


    For example, if Qiu Tu were truly to join with Tang Feifei, he could also rely on the identity of a son-in-law of the Tang family to join the faction the Tang family is part of and even leapfrog to become a core of the entire faction....


    But given the current delicate and complicated relationship between the two, it is obviously not suitable to discuss such a topic.


    And just as Qiu Tu was contemplating his own future like this.


    The holographic screen in front of the table flickered a few times before slowly manifesting the figure of an elder....


    His hair was silver-white but combed meticulously, with silver strands glistening under the light. His deep gaze seemed to penetrate the human heart as if they could see through one''s soul.


    Just by sitting there, he exuded an aura of authority without anger, like a towering mountain.


    Upon seeing him, Liu Xiongyuan''s expression turned serious. He stood up and saluted the elder, "Elder Wang."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu followed suit and saluted as well.


    Elder Wang calmly glanced at Liu Xiongyuan, then turned his head to look at Qiu Tu.


    His gaze lingered on Qiu Tu for an extra 0.5 seconds before he slowly said, "This is the Qiu Tu you mentioned to me this afternoon, right?"


    Hearing Elder Wang''s words, Liu Xiongyuan hurriedly responded with a sound of agreement, saying, "Yes, Elder Wang. This is Qiu Tu."


    "The intelligence that Yan Chen is preparing to advance to Fourth Order Cataclysmic and to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker of Dongye State Council was also discovered and passed to me by him."


    As he spoke, Liu Xiongyuan explained the current situation of Yan Chen and the overall state of affairs in Dongye State to Elder Wang in as concise a language as possible.


    During this, Elder Wang also asked a few detailed questions, and Liu Xiongyuan elaborated on these inquiries with detailed answers.


    Throughout the process, Qiu Tu just stood to one side from beginning to end, patiently being an extra without a trace of other expressions on his face.


    It was only after the exchange between the two had concluded that Elder Wang''s gaze slowly turned to Qiu Tu again....


    ------


    Still two chapters totaling 10,000 characters. A bit late today. Will continue with ten thousand a day tomorrow.

 Chapter 318 - 256 Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000-word plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    From the moment Liu Xiongyuan started talking with Elder Wang, Qiu Tu''s attention had been entirely focused on the two men without a moment''s distraction.


    So, when Elder Wang looked towards Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu bowed slightly, and once again respectfully addressed him, "Elder Wang."


    Seeing this, Liu Xiongyuan also timely stopped his talk, and stood aside, leaving this last bit of time to Qiu Tu and Wang Guochuan.


    Wang Guochuan''s gaze was like a deep pool, quietly resting on Qiu Tu.


    After a moment, he nodded slightly, then offered a faint appraisal, "Not bad."


    Having said this, he looked back at Liu Xiongyuan and spoke, "Xiongyuan, about that Deputy Speaker matter of yours, I''m still discussing it."


    "There''s substantial resistance, you should be prepared for it."


    "Huang Shangzong is adamant about not wanting to work with you, and the higher-ups have to consider his opinion after all."


    "But... as long as the list isn''t published, everything is still uncertain, so the effort that can be made still should be made."


    After speaking, he paused, then reminded, "As for Yan Chen... you should pay more attention to him."


    "If he really succeeds in advancing to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, there''s a good chance he might ultimately come out on top."


    Hearing Elder Wang''s words, Liu Xiongyuan said carefreely, "Elder Wang, fortune favors me if I get it, destiny otherwise."


    "The moment I chose to avenge my son over becoming the Deputy Speaker, I was already prepared."


    "The only thing I feel sorry about is you. My caprice this time has ruined your arrangements in Dongye State, likely causing many of our plans to come to naught, and the goal of changing the entire Sanctuary''s political ecology may have to be postponed again because of me."


    "I... apologize to you, and to our faction."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words filled with self-reproach, Elder Wang didn''t offer him any solace. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He just quietly watched Liu Xiongyuan and said, "If you are morose, suffering, self-reproaching, it means you are living in the past; if you are anxious, perplexed, wandering, it means you are living in the future."


    "Only when your heart is truly at peace, will it mean that you are living in the present...."


    "These years, you have been constantly morose, suffering, it means you have never walked out of the past."


    "I will not comfort you that your choice this time was right, after all, your impulsiveness indeed ruined years of our efforts."


    "I only want to tell you that you''ve been living in the past for 10 years now, do not let the next 10 years still be lived in the past."


    "Look forward, don''t dwell on the past nor be anxious about the future, calmly face the present."


    "Whether you lose or win, whether Bureau Chief or Deputy Speaker, devote yourself fully to the development of Dongye State."


    Listening to Elder Wang''s calm yet powerful words, Liu Xiongyuan bowed respectfully, and replied, "Yes!"


    After his instructions to Liu Xiongyuan, Elder Wang spoke indifferently, "Alright, I have another meeting next, so I won''t chat with you two any longer."


    Hearing his words, Liu Xiongyuan reminded, "Please take care of your health."


    "I know..." Elder Wang nodded faintly, then he terminated the communication amid the salutes of Liu Xiongyuan and Qiu Tu.


    The communication was not long, just 13 minutes.


    And in those 13 minutes, Elder Wang only glanced at Qiu Tu twice, then assessed him in three words.


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t feel neglected at all.


    What status was Qiu Tu? In one of the dozen cities within several Planning Areas of the Eighth Sanctuary, he was just a junior deputy head in the Political Department of the Investigation Bureau in Xinjie City.


    Although he counted as a bigwig within the Investigation Bureau and wielded significant influence and power in Xinjie City.


    He was far behind Elder Wang.


    If one needs a direct comparison, it''s like... if the Sanctuary held a high-level meeting, Elder Wang would be the one sitting in the first row.


    And Qiu Tu... would be the one learning from in front of the television....


    With such a stark contrast in status, Qiu Tu had already designed his persona according to his experiences from a previous life before this conversation: an understudy who knew his place, was sensible and aware of his status.


    Thus, during the exchange between the two bigshots, Qiu Tu remained silent.


    He didn''t try to assert himself or butt into the conversation.


    After all, standing out in front of real bigshots isn''t necessarily a good thing.


    These bigshots have seen too many talented individuals, and unless you are a rare genius, a simple few words won''t amaze them or leave them in shock. Otherwise, you will most likely be tagged as "frivolous" or "not stable enough."


    And if there are mistakes in what you say, it''s even more disastrous. The first impression is almost certain to be negative.


    So... when facing such real bigshots, "hiding one''s clumsiness" is actually the wisest strategy.


    And at that moment, while Qiu Tu was thinking this, Liu Xiongyuan came back to his senses. He gently patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder, then smilingly said, "You did quite well, kid."


    "I heard you''ve always been high-handed in Xinjie City; I thought you''d seize the moment to show off."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu responded with a straight face, "Slander! That''s slander!"


    "Was it Agent Liu who said this? I demand a face-to-face confrontation!"


    Qiu Tu handled interpersonal relationships with great discernment.


    In the presence of someone like Elder Wang, who was an incredibly high-level figure, Qiu Tu didn''t speak up, merely demonstrating his stability.


    But, with someone like Liu Xiongyuan, where the level difference wasn''t that big, who had a frank personality, and with whom he had a somewhat close relationship, Qiu Tu''s behavior was much more natural and unrestrained.


    As expected, Qiu Tu''s remark made Liu Xiongyuan burst out laughing with a "haha."


    Liu Xiongyuan patted Qiu Tu''s shoulder again and said, "Not bad, not bad, I''m finding you more and more interesting."

 Chapter 319 - 256: Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Once Dongye State is established, make sure you come to Eastern City more often. We need to exchange ideas and communicate more,"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, "Right, elder."


    With that, the meeting with Liu Xiongyuan and Elder Wang for the evening ended early.


    Elder Wang is a busy man, dealing with the Sanctuary and internal faction affairs every day, and Liu Xiongyuan is also very busy.


    With the establishment of Dongye State imminent, and the state government being set up in Eastern City, he needed to make a lot of preparations early on.


    Besides the official duties, the complex project of prematurely forming Moonlight Lake also required his attention, so he needed to return and start preparations as soon as possible.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t hold him back, and after seeing Liu Xiongyuan downstairs, he watched as he got into the army-green jeep that slowly drove away...


    Before parting, Liu Xiongyuan also whispered a few words to Qiu Tu.


    Perhaps because Elder Wang had given him an "not bad" assessment, Liu Xiongyuan clearly regarded Qiu Tu as a junior member of his faction.


    Therefore, he patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder and said, "Don''t worry too much about Huang Shangzong''s matter. He''s here in Dongye State to work, not to seek revenge, and there are many things he can''t overdo."


    "Besides, now that he''s a member of the Supreme Council and also serving as the Speaker of the State Council, he''s already in the spotlight. Many people in the Sanctuary are watching him."


    "Just waiting for him to make a mistake."


    "And with me in front, he probably won''t make a direct move on you."


    "However, he is likely to bring his confidants and subordinates into Xinjie City to target you."


    "In such times, you need to be extra careful."


    Listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s sincere concern and advice, Qiu Tu nodded seriously and expressed his thanks.


    After seeing Liu Xiongyuan off, Qiu Tu stood at the entrance of "Fuxing Tea House" and absentmindedly gazed at the sky for a while. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The sky still displayed Yan Chen''s immense Illusion of the Law, like a mountain range, looking magnificent.


    ''Fourth Order... I''ll have to at least become the Deputy Speaker of a state''s State Council to reach that.''


    ''Deputy Speaker... That''s barely considered a Senior Frontier Official.''


    ''If only I could become someone like Elder Wang...''


    ''Hiss, I dare not think about it...''


    As he internally sighed, Qiu Tu walked towards his dilapidated sedan parked by the roadside in the cool breeze.


    Getting into the run-down car, Qiu Tu started it and drove towards his home on Longshan Road.


    On the way, Qiu Tu also reflected on his plans against Yan Chen, which had undergone several changes.


    Currently, he had a three-step plan against Yan Chen.


    The first step was to seize power, control the Investigation Bureau, plant confidants, and sideline Yan Chen.


    Thanks to Tang Feifei''s efforts today, this step has seen some success. It''s just waiting for Qiu Tu to go to the Investigation Bureau tomorrow to start promoting his confidants and arranging their positions.


    The second step was to use the celestial shifts caused by Yan Chen''s advancement to Fourth Order to stimulate Moonlight Lake and form it ahead of time.


    This step was to be completed by Liu Xiongyuan, so Qiu Tu didn''t need to worry about it.


    The third step was to interact with Larilo, to extract information and cards from her, and then to coax Larilo into holding Yan Chen back.


    If all three steps were completed, or even just any two of them, Yan Chen would not possibly secure the position of Deputy Speaker, and he might even face accountability from the Sanctuary.


    Thinking of "Deputy Speaker", Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the conversation between Elder Wang and Liu Xiongyuan.


    From the conversation, Qiu Tu learned that Liu Xiongyuan''s quest for vengeance against his son actually had a significant impact on the Reformist Faction''s plans.


    But even though it had happened, the Reformist Faction was still actively looking for ways to recuperate and see if they could push Liu Xiongyuan back up.


    Therefore, who the position of Deputy Speaker would ultimately fall to remained unknown.


    ''It would be nice if I could help Liu Xiongyuan and have him become the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State.''


    ''That way, even if Huang Shangzong becomes the Speaker, having one of our own up there could significantly improve the situation.''


    This idea lingered in Qiu Tu''s mind as soon as it formed.


    But as a mere vice-minister, the gap between him and the position of Bureau Chief, let alone Deputy Speaker, was vast.


    So even though he wanted to help Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu didn''t know where to start.


    Hence, he could only take things one step at a time, first to meet with the entrapped and Devoured Evil God Girl Lara, to communicate...


    When he got home, Shen Lingshuang hadn''t gone to bed yet.


    Qiu Tu greeted her and then went upstairs to an empty bedroom to contact Larilo.


    Qiu Tu currently had two ways to contact Larilo.


    The first was the Ancient Coin. It was the only item that allowed believers to actively contact Larilo.


    The second was... "Enter Dream."


    Even though Qiu Tu no longer had Larilo''s mark, Secretary Bai certainly did as Larilo''s high-level believer, holding an identity and status no less than Jia Wei''s.


    Thus, Qiu Tu speculated that Secretary Bai must also have the ability to bestow Larilo''s mark.


    If the first method failed, Qiu Tu planned to seek out Secretary Bai to try getting the mark for himself...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu began to contact Larilo using the same method as last time, first rubbing the face of the coin with his thumb three times, followed by four rubs on the back. Finally, he tossed the coin onto the table.


    "Phew!"


    Last time, it took Qiu Tu several minutes and six or seven tries to successfully contact Larilo.


    This time, he didn''t even wait a second before Larilo took the initiative to "answer the call."

 Chapter 320 - 256 Larilo: Qiu Tu, save me! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The coin flew mid-air, and before it even landed on the table, it vaporized, then amidst a puff of smoke, it formed Larilo''s stunningly beautiful face.


    Tonight''s Larilo was clearly in disarray, even panic-stricken. As soon as she saw Qiu Tu, it was as if she had grasped at the last straw, frantically pleading for help, "Qiu Tu! Save me! Save me!"


    Seeing Larilo''s flustered expression and her desperate plea, honestly, Qiu Tu was also taken aback for a moment.


    In his heart, as an Evil God, Larilo should remain calm and composed even if the sky were falling down.


    But... just Yan Chen devouring her was enough to scare her like this? S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Was Yan Chen truly terrifying, or was Larilo a paper tiger?


    Or perhaps... Larilo was putting on an act?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu began to probe. He feigned surprise and said, "Your Highness, what happened?"


    "What''s wrong with you? Is there anything I can do for you?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo exclaimed anxiously, "Yan Chen, it''s Yan Chen."


    "That madman, he''s taken the ''Path of Life'' just like me. And... his abilities are extremely unique."


    "He can actually absorb the lifespans and souls of other beings."


    "Now I''m trapped in his domain, unable to leave or escape."


    "And constantly having my strength drained by him, I feel like I''m going insane."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s face contorted with more ferocity, and she said in terror, "So save me, save me. As long as you can save me, I will give you anything."


    Qiu Tu narrowed his eyes, carefully discerning the tone of Larilo''s speech. Then he said, "Anything?"


    "Then... can Your Highness spend a night of spring with me?"


    After speaking, fearing that Larilo would get angry, Qiu Tu even made a "one" gesture with his hand, saying, "I''m not the type to ask for an inch and take a mile."


    "One night, just one night is all I need to be satisfied."


    "I just want to taste what an Evil God is like, I have never manipulated an Evil God before."


    Larilo: ...


    Larilo glared at Qiu Tu with a fierce expression, while Qiu Tu looked back at her innocently, as if that was truly all he wanted.


    After a pause.


    "Giggle giggle~~"


    The panic and ferocity on Larilo''s face vanished abruptly, replaced by an expression full of wicked charm and slyness.


    She laughed like the tinkling of silver bells, her eyes forming two curved rainbows.


    After laughing for about five or six seconds, Larilo stopped the laughter and looked at Qiu Tu curiously, then inquired, "Qiu Tu~ how did you figure out I was deceiving you?"


    Qiu Tu "heh heh" chuckled twice, then followed up with flattery, "Because I believe in Your Highness, I know that with your intelligence and wisdom, even if Yan Chen had schemed against you, you would definitely have a backup plan and not be so completely panicked."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo giggled a few more times, and then she said, "Well, you''ve guessed wrong."


    "I don''t have any backup plan, I''m just enough, just... how do you humans say it again?"


    "Oh, right. Carefree Faction. I''m just carefree enough, that''s all."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s head slowly vaporized, and momentarily, it formed a small full-body image of herself.


    In the image, Larilo sat leisurely in the air, then looked at Qiu Tu curiously and asked, "Qiu Tu, compared to my own situation, I''m actually more curious about you."


    Larilo smiled wickedly, "You''re seeking me out at this time, surely it''s not just to chat, right?"


    Larilo stretched out her legs, her round and jade-like little feet almost reaching Qiu Tu''s mouth, and she said with a teasing laugh, "Let me guess...."


    "If I''m not mistaken, you''re here to test me and to negotiate a deal, right?"


    -----------

 Chapter 321 - 257: The Chief Culprit Behind the Time Travel? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu did not try to wrestle control of the conversation''s rhythm as usual.


    Instead, he actively handed over the control of the conversation to Larilo.


    He forced an awkward smile, then feigned stubbornness, and said, "How dare I discuss business with Your Highness."


    "I am here to save Your Highness."


    After that, Qiu Tu took the initiative to say, "I saw the Illusion of the Law belonging to Yan Chen appear and discovered that something big seemed to have happened in Xinjie City."


    "So, I captured many people, and after lengthy interrogations, I learned that Yan Chen had set up a trap, a snare, wanting to Devour Your Highness and become a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver."


    "Having obtained this intelligence, I communicated with Your Highness immediately, wishing to save Your Highness."


    Sure enough, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s recounting, Larilo laughed lightly, then taunted, "Save me? Do I need saving by you?"


    She spoke with slight disdain, "Do you really think Yan Chen can outwit me?"


    "The tactics he and Bai Yu have been playing, I have seen through them all too clearly."


    "In fact, I have made targeted arrangements."


    "Yan Chen feels that he has outwitted me, but in reality... everything is a plot within a plot, a scheme within a scheme."


    As Larilo spoke, Qiu Tu was intently watching her expressions, trying to discern whether Larilo was telling the truth or lies.


    But whether Larilo''s acting was too good, or everything was indeed fact, Qiu Tu could not detect the slightest flaw.


    Therefore, he became even more cautious, and tentatively said, "Is that so?"


    "Then... may I ask Your Highness to resolve some of my confusion?"


    Feigning a puzzled frown, Qiu Tu said, "Having learned about the general process of the entire affair today, I truly feel like the whole Xinjie City is a giant chessboard."


    "And it seems like you and Yan Chen have been laying out your plans for many years."


    At this point, Qiu Tu brought up several key terms on purpose.


    He said, "For instance... what exactly is the deal with Zheng Tao and his wife?"


    "And when did Bai Yu feign allegiance to Your Highness?"


    "When did Your Highness begin to conceal yourself by Yan Chen''s side?"


    "And how did Yan Chen plan to outwit Your Highness?"


    Having said that, Qiu Tu then put on a look of dejection and said, "I''m now only piecing together a general picture from various sources of information, but I cannot understand the timelines or your arrangements at all..."


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s crimson eyes took Qiu Tu in from top to bottom, a flicker of surprise in their depths.


    Obviously, she had not expected Qiu Tu to know so much intelligence and detail, and that he had figured out the crux of the matter in just a day''s time.


    It was only certain key nodes of information and timing that were not clearly sorted out.


    Such ability to gather and analyze intelligence was indeed astonishing.


    Thinking this, Larilo also couldn''t help but reassess Qiu Tu, as if considering whether to tell him everything or not.


    After a moment, she came to a decision.


    She slightly tilted her head up, then said, "Well then~since you want to know, I might as well tell you briefly."


    "Consider it a demonstration of my might...."


    Saying so, Larilo roughly recounted to Qiu Tu the mutual strategizing between her and Yan Chen over the past two years.


    According to Larilo, her focus on Yan Chen began a few years ago. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that time, the Sanctuary had just decided that Xinjie City would become a Planning Area, and Yan Chen, General Ye, and Commissioner Jiang were subsequently designated as the highest officials for Xinjie City''s three major institutions.


    Old Master Qin learned of this news through some secretive channels.


    So he gathered information about these three individuals for Larilo to see who could be swayed or breached.


    Ultimately, Larilo chose Yan Chen.


    The reason for choosing Yan Chen was simple: his wife had passed away a few years ago and could be revived using "Cloned Female Body", and he also had a daughter, convenient for Larilo to descend in hiding.


    Thus, carrying with him grand gifts, Old Master Qin visited the Sanctuary as a would-be supporter, held secret talks with Yan Chen, and finally, with the condition of Cloning and reviving Yan Chen''s wife, reached a preliminary collaboration¡ªOld Master Qin''s second son, Qin Zhengguang, would take up a post in the Investigation Bureau.


    Afterwards, the Qin family would continue their cooperation with Yan Chen once he arrived at Xinjie City.


    Of course... all of this was a ruse. Old Master Qin''s cooperation was fake, the real objective was to steal Yan Chen''s daughter''s genes.


    When discussing the technology of "Cloned Female Body", Old Master Qin fabricated a story: Since Yan Chen''s wife had been dead for a few years, cloning her directly from the leftover genes was impossible, and a living cell template from his daughter was required for corrections.


    Not much living tissue was needed, just a vial of blood would suffice.


    Yan Chen, clearly not realizing that Old Master Qin''s target was his daughter, agreed to the condition without much hesitation.


    So, upon returning to Xinjie City, Old Master Qin began the cloning of Yan Chen''s wife and Yan Yan.


    During this period, the clone body prepared for Old Master Qin matured.


    Thus, Old Master Qin, following his plan with Larilo, abandoned his old body, his Soul split in two, and entered both his cloned body and his elder son Qin Heng''s body, continuing to serve Larilo.


    In this way, Xinjie City was officially established shortly thereafter, and Yan Chen successfully became the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Chief and arrived at Xinjie City.


    Honoring the initial agreement, Old Master Qin presented the cloned wife to Yan Chen, who in turn promptly fulfilled his promise: Qin Zhengguang was appointed as the Deputy Division Chief of the Investigation Bureau.

 Chapter 322 - 257: The Culprit Behind the Time Travel? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    However, when Yan Chen wanted to further cooperate with the Qin Family, Old Master Qin was worried that the relationship between the Qin Family and Larilo would be discovered, so he temporarily delayed the cooperation with Yan Chen.


    As for the reason, it was simple¡ªit was "his" own death¡ª"he" was already dead, and his descendants did not yet know about the original agreement, so they did not dare to rashly pledge their allegiance.


    At that time, Xinjie City had just been established, and the three major institutions still needed old established families like the Qin Family to establish order, so Yan Chen did not dare to put too much pressure on the Qin Family.


    Thus... the Qin Family and Yan Chen reached a state of having a relationship that was not very close.


    According to Larilo''s speculation, it was likely Old Master Qin''s conservative approach that aroused Yan Chen''s suspicion.


    Therefore, Yan Chen began to secretly investigate the details of the Qin Family and consequently stumbled upon some clues about Larilo.


    Because Yan Chen was a "Life" path Cataclysmic.


    Moreover, his Cataclysmic ability was quite special, named "Life Devouring."


    The effect of this Cataclysmic ability was very domineering: it could forcibly devour the lifespan and soul of beings on the same path, thereby enhancing oneself.


    But in the real world, randomly slaughtering Cataclysmics would result in a manhunt by the Sanctuary, so Yan Chen was forced to use his other Cataclysmic ability, "Turtle''s Breath," to slowly strengthen himself.


    However, no one wanted to follow the rules and cultivate step by step when shortcuts existed.


    So, when he discovered that Larilo, the Evil God, was also on the "Life" path, Yan Chen was tempted.


    Because Evil Gods are usually Fourth Order, Fifth Order High Order Cataclysmic Creatures, if he could devour Larilo, Yan Chen''s strength would leap forward, and advancing to a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver would be just around the corner.


    But at that time, Yan Chen had not yet thought of a good way to deal with Larilo...


    Who knew, at this time, Jia Wei actually approached Yan Chen and, identifying as a disciple of Larilo, proposed cooperating with Yan Chen.


    As someone with aspirations to climb to the top, Yan Chen naturally refused Jia Wei without hesitation.


    He also strongly warned Jia Wei not to cause trouble in Xinjie City, or even his brother Jia Shu would not be able to protect him.


    However... after overtly refusing to cooperate with Jia Wei, Yan Chen secretly had a private talk with Secretary Bai.


    In the private talk, Yan Chen hinted that he wanted to devour Larilo but could not find the opportunity.


    If there were a way to lure Larilo into the real world, maybe Yan Chen could devour her and successfully advance to a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen owed a great debt to Secretary Bai.


    So, after realizing Yan Chen''s interest in Larilo, Secretary Bai, after much contemplation, finally made up his mind and decided to put himself in the game and fulfill Yan Chen''s wish.


    Thus, he took the initiative to find Jia Wei, reached a cooperation with him, and began to assist Jia Wei.


    Faced with the olive branch suddenly extended by Secretary Bai, one of the nine high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau, Jia Wei certainly could not refuse.


    So, although he was somewhat puzzled, he accepted Secretary Bai without hesitation.


    As a result, Secretary Bai officially became the "Evil God''s mole," starting to provide Jia Wei with various intelligence about Xinjie City and the Investigation Bureau.


    Secretary Bai was a very steady and diligent person. Knowing that Jia Wei might suspect him, he did not rush to meet Larilo, but instead played the long game, patiently providing intelligence and support.


    It was precisely such actions that, after half a year, finally won Jia Wei''s trust and led him to introduce Secretary Bai to Larilo.


    Since he was prepared to enter the game and sacrifice himself, Secretary Bai did not resist having the Believer''s Mark that could strip life and death planted by Larilo.


    This further gained the trust of Larilo and Jia Wei.


    Thus... Larilo''s various schemes began to unfold to Secretary Bai. Consequently, Secretary Bai naturally learned about Larilo''s arrival plan, including her target: Yan Yan.


    So, one night, Secretary Bai wrote down the relevant intelligence in a letter and placed it on Yan Chen''s desk.


    It was precisely with this information from Secretary Bai that Yan Chen made many targeted arrangements.


    For example... he borrowed in advance Cataclysmic treasures that could injure Evil Gods.


    For another... he prepared a body double for his daughter ahead of time, to replace his daughter and die in her stead.


    Furthermore... after confirming the date of Larilo''s arrival, he set up a large Fusion Array near the Qin Family.


    One major function of this Fusion Array was: to forcibly fuse the soul with the body, unable to separate.


    Unless one had the "ability to undo Cataclysmic abilities," escape was impossible!


    So, upon her arrival, Larilo was horrified to discover that her soul could not return to the "Boundless Heart Sea!"


    At the time, she thought there were problems with the body Old Master Qin had crafted or that she had been ambushed, so after using the Believer''s Mark to incapacitate Old Master Qin, she fled from the Qin Family and went into hiding. (Chapter 143)


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu suddenly had a thought: so... his transmigration and rebirth, along with Qin Shuman''s fusion with a new body, were actually because of Yan Chen?


    But... Yan Chen''s Array targeted the Qin Family and should not have affected Old Alley Street, right?


    Moreover, the fusion of bodies should not have caused the original souls of these two bodies to disappear, right?


    Qiu Tu felt... Yan Chen was likely a key factor in his transmigration and Qin Shuman''s fusion with a new body.


    But something else must have happened that day to ultimately lead to all this.

 Chapter 323 - 257: The Culprit Behind Time Travel? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    With that thought, Qiu Tu reined in his thoughts and continued to listen to Larilo''s narration.


    Larilo, perhaps growing weary of talking, simply flew onto the table and sat down.


    The Larilo that emerged from the ancient coins was dressed in a long, black lace gown.


    The gown clung to her exquisite figure, fluttering lightly with her every move as if a black butterfly danced in the dark night.


    She leaned against the table, her bare, white feet playfully kicked back and forth; she was pretty cute.


    But combined with her blood-red lips and charming eyes, it always felt like a venomous snake was luring its prey into a trap...


    She continued, "After that, Yan Chen didn''t dare make any other move to trap me."


    "Whether it was Tian Dafu''s capture or the downfall of the Qin Family, he pretended to be learning about these events for the first time, not showing any reaction."


    "In addition, Bai Yu had been providing Jia Wei with a steady stream of information and support at the Investigation Bureau."


    "In the end, I decided to stick to the original plan: to take Yan Chen''s daughter''s place and infiltrate his side to further expand my influence in Xinjie City...." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu mused and added, "Bai Yu must have played a role in this, right?"


    "Let me guess, he must have told you that Yanyan was about to come to Xinjie City, and if you missed her now, you''d miss her forever."


    Larilo nodded with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile. The smile lacked any warmth; instead, it was filled with coldness and sarcasm.


    Her eyes twinkled with a strange light, as if she could see into people''s souls. "But.... they overlooked the most important thing."


    "That is.... my follower''s mark is not only able to control life and death."


    "But can also let me share the visual and auditory senses of my followers... that is to say, whatever my followers see and hear, I will know."


    "It happened that after becoming Yanyan, my life was very boring, just admiring flowers, picking flowers, arranging flowers.... So, I would sometimes share Bai Yu''s vision and hearing to see his work."


    "Hehe...." Saying this, Larilo let out a soft chuckle, then continued, "Guess what? Bai Yu actually has the habit of keeping a diary."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but express his amazement, "Who keeps a diary seriously?"


    Upon hearing this, Larilo giggled. As she laughed, her little feet kicked about enticingly.


    After her laughter, Larilo sat up straight, her eyes deep and indifferent, like a bottomless abyss. She said coldly, "So... I found out that he wasn''t truly loyal to me."


    "Following this clue, I backtracked the whole event, and of course, it was easy to discover Yan Chen''s plot."


    "But I knew: discovering Yan Chen''s plot was useless, the important thing was to break the game."


    "So... I sought help from a Great Evil God."


    At Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu was initially taken aback and then blurted out, "Zhao Ji?"


    This name was once told to Qiu Tu by Old Master Qin. He had said Zhao Ji was an Evil God even more powerful than Larilo, looming over Eastern City and the surrounding cities. (Chapter 229)


    Old Master Qin had once summoned Larilo in Eastern City, and when Larilo realized she was on Zhao Ji''s turf, her face immediately changed.


    Now, hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo gave him an extra glance, once again surprised by Qiu Tu''s intelligence-gathering capabilities.


    In the end, however, she nodded slightly, "Yes. It''s her."


    She added indifferently, "She is a Fifth Order Evil God, arguably the most powerful being in this world...."


    "With her around, Yan Chen can''t harm me at all."


    A wild and arrogant smile appeared on Larilo''s face. She extended her slender index finger, looked at Qiu Tu maliciously, and said with pride,


    "She just needs one strike to tear through the barrier between the Boundless Heart Sea and the real world, shattering Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law!"


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words haha. Something came up today, so it''s a bit late!


    Continuing with 10k words per day tomorrow!

 Chapter 324 - 258: Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu was genuinely shocked.


    To penetrate the barrier between two worlds and shatter Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law from another world? sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He couldn''t help but exclaim, "The Fifth Order Evil God is actually that strong?"


    Seeing the na?ve look on Qiu Tu''s face, a wicked smile curled on the corner of Larilo''s lips.


    Along with her exquisite facial features and those oddly beautiful, crimson eyes, she was like a dark flame, both sinister and eye-catching.


    She lightly touched her prominent nose with her finger and then proudly said, "So you see, Yan Chen thought he had outsmarted me, but in fact, he has fallen into our trap."


    Qiu Tu nodded in agreement and then sycophantically praised, "Your Highness is truly a master strategist."


    "It seems I was worried for nothing."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu added tentatively, "Your Highness... is there anything else you need me to do?"


    Qiu Tu thought for a moment and then added, "Now that Yan Chen has been trapped by you, he won''t be able to escape for a while."


    "The Investigation Bureau is already under my control, I can do a lot of things for you."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s gaze fixed intently on Larilo.


    He clearly saw a flash of surprise in Larilo''s eyes.


    Obviously... the fact that he had taken control of the Investigation Bureau so efficiently in just half a day was somewhat astonishing to Larilo.


    After all, Larilo had planned for so long just to control the Investigation Bureau and then spread her faith and pathways in Xinjie City.


    The thing she had failed to accomplish over many years was unexpectedly completed by Qiu Tu in just half a day, so her surprise and astonishment were understandable.


    However, that fleeting expression was just that¡ªfleeting. Larilo quickly regained her composure.


    She gave Qiu Tu a deep look and then asked, "Qiu Tu... do you truly wish to worship me?"


    Qiu Tu replied with an embarrassed face, "Not really."


    Larilo: ??


    Qiu Tu said with a cheeky grin, "I simply lust after your body."


    "Ever since I was young, I''ve had only one hobby, and that''s to be lascivious. I really want to taste the flavor of an Evil God."


    Larilo: ...


    Seeing the sincere expression on Qiu Tu''s face, Larilo narrowed her eyes dangerously, looked at him, and said in a sweet voice, "Qiu Tu~ you wouldn''t be trying to provoke me, would you?"


    Qiu Tu hurriedly waved his hands in denial.


    Then he swore solemnly, "Your Highness! I swear to heaven, if I truly harbor no ill intentions towards you, then may I be struck by lightning, run over by a carriage, or choke to death on water!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu swear so earnestly, Larilo felt slightly relieved... Not!


    She would probably want to strangle Qiu Tu if she weren''t appearing before him right now!


    Swearing like that?!


    Guaranteeing that he harbors ill intentions?


    Such oaths only seem more detestable when fulfilled, right?!


    Thinking this, Larilo felt her chest heave with anger.


    But she ultimately maintained the dignity of an Evil God. Her eyelids drooped, and her fingers lazily played with the lace on her clothing, revealing an air of casual elegance.


    After a moment, she lifted her head, gave Qiu Tu a charming smile, and said, "I am aware of your desire."


    "It''s not that it can''t be fulfilled."


    "But... I need you to do something for me first."


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu immediately hit his chest and assured her, "Your Highness! As long as you agree to let me be your confidant, it doesn''t matter if it''s one task or ten, I am willing to do them for you!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s promise, Larilo covered her mouth and giggled, "Alright then, you shall do ten tasks for me."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s speechlessness, Larilo laughed even more joyfully.


    She extended her slender fingers and said, "The first task is... I want to develop a few more followers within the Investigation Bureau."


    "I need your help to properly select these followers, to see who can be used and who cannot~~"


    Without any hesitation, Qiu Tu agreed, "Rest assured, Your Highness, I will complete the mission!"


    Seeing his eagerness, Larilo smiled even more happily and said, "The second task is... I need to know the exact time Moonlight Lake will take shape."


    "This Moonlight Lake is already fated to be mine. With it, I might have a chance to ascend to the Fifth Order."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu said with a surprised face, "Like Her Highness Zhao Ji, a Fifth Order Evil God who can break through the barriers of worlds with a single blow?"


    Larilo smiled slyly, "Yes."


    Qiu Tu hastily assured, "Your Highness, rest easy, I guarantee that I will complete the mission!"


    Larilo nodded and continued, "The third task..."


    And so, Larilo actually went through all ten tasks in detail.


    These tasks ranged from developing followers to gathering intelligence, to handling the female slaves Larilo was training, and even included massaging Larilo''s feet...


    Especially that last task of foot-massaging, Qiu Tu was for a moment unsure whether Larilo was giving him tasks or rewarding him.


    However, regardless, since Larilo mentioned them, Qiu Tu carefully took note of each task with pen and paper.


    Larilo, seeing Qiu Tu so dedicated, showed a rare look of satisfaction on her face.


    At the end of the call, she nodded to Qiu Tu and, as if tempting him with a promise, said, "Qiu Tu~ rest assured, as long as you serve me well and help develop my faith, I won''t let you down."


    "Didn''t you want to be my high priest and stay by my side all the time? I agree~~ I promise."


    Hearing her words, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with surprise and excitement and joyfully said, "Thank you, Your Highness!"

 Chapter 325 - 258 Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    "I promise I will complete the task!"


    Larilo nodded in her reserved and noble manner, then said, "Since that is the case, you may leave."


    "Once you have completed the tasks I have assigned you, you can contact me again."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded earnestly and replied, "Please rest assured, Your Highness, I will accomplish it as soon as possible."


    Larilo nodded with satisfaction.


    The next second, her body exploded into a mass of white vapor.


    For a moment, the white vapor condensed and contracted, finally returning into the form of that ancient coin.


    Then, with a "clang..." it fell onto the table, rolling around several times before it finally came to a slow stop.


    With the end of the communication and the falling of the coin, the room became eerily silent...


    At this time, Qiu Tu made no movement.


    He just watched the ancient coin quietly, then suddenly let out a soft chuckle.


    The next second, without giving the coin another glance, he took out his communicator and dialed a few numbers. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The person on the other end had clearly been waiting for Qiu Tu''s call, so as soon as he called, the other party instantly picked up.


    At the same time, a familiar woman''s voice came from the earpiece, "How did it go? What''s the result?"


    Upon hearing the woman''s voice, Qiu Tu, while stepping out of the room, replied with a light chuckle, "I''ve almost gotten to the bottom of it."


    "She indeed fell into Yan Chen''s trap. Now, not only is her soul unable to leave that body, but she''s also restrained by the Godslayer artifact that Yan Chen had prepared long ago."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed, "It seems... our Heretic Goddess has truly taken a fall this time."


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment and couldn''t help but recall the entire conversation he had just had with Larilo.


    Larilo did possess some cunning: despite being outmaneuvered by Yan Chen, and now trapped, she remained unpanicked and tried every possible way to escape.


    And she had actually already communicated her method of escape to Qiu Tu: by leveraging the power of the Great Evil God Zhaohui, forcefully shattering Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, causing his advancement to fail and him to suffer backlash. Thus, revealing a flaw that would allow her to flee.


    As for most of what she and Qiu Tu had talked about, the mutual calculative moves between Yan Chen and herself were largely true. Or should we say, nine parts truth to one part falsehood.


    The only false part might be that Larilo had discovered Yan Chen''s trap and had made preparations in advance...


    As for the rest, Qiu Tu speculated that they were probably deductions Larilo made based on the events of these past few years after she had fallen into the trap.


    And why was Qiu Tu so certain that Larilo had truly been duped, rather than, as she claimed, turning the tables on Yan Chen and setting a trap for him?


    It was actually quite simple...


    Larilo thought she had behaved very normally, but in fact... she had overplayed her hand.


    Recalling Larilo''s entire history of interaction with Qiu Tu¡ªthe Heretic Goddess girl was arrogant, sinister, and cunning.


    During the three interactions and tests with her, although the outcomes varied, there was one constant in Larilo: she was tight-lipped! (Chapter 155, 184, 204)


    Qiu Tu was someone adept at controlling the flow of conversations and extracting information, yet he never received a single useful piece of information from Larilo.


    The only time he did get useful information, it was false¡ªLarilo claimed that Jia Shu was her follower.


    So, when Qiu Tu discovered that today''s Larilo, without any prompting, spilled all the beans, he immediately became certain that Larilo was lying.


    She was using her words to guide him, to feed him the information she wanted him to know or believe.


    And across all the information revealed by Larilo today, the only thing worth her elaborate deception of Qiu Tu was the fact that she had fallen into a trap.


    Qiu Tu guessed that Larilo had probably sensed something was off and amiss, but being controlled by Yan Chen, she simply had no time to escape or call for help.


    Moreover, during this time, Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had done away with all of Larilo''s core followers, leaving her with no one to contact.


    This was also why Larilo continued the conversation despite possibly knowing she had overexerted herself¡ªshe likely had no other choice, Qiu Tu was her last lifeline.


    Therefore, even if she knew she might be exposed, she... might not last much longer and had to take a gamble.


    Of course, she lost that bet.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also took out the list of ten tasks Larilo had told him to complete.


    Most of these tasks were to create a smokescreen, but one seemed to have an issue.


    "Light three sticks of incense at the east gate of Xinjie City and whisper ''My Lord Larilo'' three times."


    According to Larilo, this was to signify Qiu Tu''s allegiance to her, after which they would be on the same side.


    But... to be honest, Qiu Tu had never seen such a way of marking believers, so he surmised that it was probably a distress signal.


    The east gate was precisely the direction of Eastern City, and the incense might be a special kind of signal, while "My Lord Larilo" was clearly to notify Zhaohui who needed help.


    It was through these two major details that Qiu Tu became certain that Larilo was not as shrewd as she claimed, but instead was trapped!


    He conveyed his entire analysis to Qin Shuman.

 Chapter 326 - 258: Qiu Tu: I Swear I Want to Sleep with You (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    After pondering for a moment, Qin Shuman also agreed with Qiu Tu''s idea.


    She said, "Larilo must indeed be out of core believers who can save her. That''s why she clings to you like a drowning person to a straw, ready to make a desperate last stand."


    Then Qin Shuman asked, "So, what do you plan to do?"


    As Qiu Tu walked to the end of the corridor and stood by the window, he said with a smile, "It''s quite simple. Just one word: ''Stall!''


    "Since she wants to play the game, I''ll play along."


    "After all, I originally wanted to delay Yan Chen''s time."


    "Now, I don''t even need to brainwash her, just give her a sliver of hope, and that''s enough for her to keep going."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu further remarked, "Judging from my interaction with Larilo, she should be fine for at least two or three days. Still lively and kicking."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman chuckled on the other end of the phone, then she said, "Just don''t be too sure of yourself... aren''t you afraid that she actually has an ace up her sleeve and decides to just flip the table and quit the game?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed indifferently, "Flip the table and quit? Wouldn''t that be perfect?"


    "Yan Chen would surely get backlash from that, right?"


    Qiu Tu said, "I actually just figured it out today."


    "I used to think that both of them are my enemies, and no matter who wins, I would be in a lot of trouble eventually."


    "But now, my thoughts are different: I think that no matter who wins, I will have one less enemy"


    "All I need to do is take down the other one."


    "That directly cuts the work in half!"


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s carefree statement, Qin Shuman joked with a laugh, "You, truly a disciple of Larilo. You''ve learned her ways of the Carefree Faction."


    Standing by the corridor window, Qiu Tu gazed at the still brilliant phantom image of the giant tree in the sky and remarked feelingly, "Can''t help it. If I''m not slightly optimistic, I would''ve been crushed long ago."


    "We moved carefully, wading through so many dangers. Wasn''t that easy~~"


    Qin Shuman responded with a laugh, "Indeed. We do need to stay optimistic."


    And just as Qiu Tu was looking at the night view, chatting with Qin Shuman...


    Suddenly... a loud "Boom!" exploded right next to Qiu Tu''s ear!


    In that instant, his ears were "buzzing"! It was as if countless bees were flapping their wings right beside his head, creating a piercing buzz!


    Before he could even react, "Woof, woof! Woof woof woof!" frenzied barking erupted from downstairs!


    The explosion had clearly startled Shen Lingshuang, who had been asleep. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Wearing a small bear pajamas that Qiu Tu had specially bought for her that afternoon, Shen Lingshuang, clutching a nearly life-size doll, ran out of the bedroom, her face stricken with terror!


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman, on the other end of the line, had also heard the explosion and asked anxiously, "What was that noise! Qiu Tu! Are you okay over there? What happened?"


    Qiu Tu himself had just recovered from the roar of the bomb exploding close by.


    He looked down following the shattered wall.


    Then he saw the pitch-dark villa exterior, where who knows how many figures in black were hiding.


    The one directly facing him was a person in black, shoulder-launching a rocket launcher, aiming at him, preparing to fire a second rocket.


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu first glanced at the rapidly blinking [Countdown to the Revenge of the United Front] in the upper left corner of his field of vision, and then he calmly said to Qin Shuman, "It''s nothing... it must be the United Front''s retaliation."


    "They''ve brought heavy weaponry."


    "Now they''re bombarding my mansion."


    --------


    Still 2 chapters in 10,000 words, haha. Vote for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 330 - 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    And with Qiu Tu''s words, several opulent eldsters indeed appeared in the distance.


    Their hair was gray, but meticulously groomed, the silvery strands shimmering under the lights of Longshan Road.


    Possibly due to long-standing upper positions, their demeanors were dignified and their eyes as deep as still waters, radiating an aura of majesty without anger.


    They were... the legendary figures known as "The Five Elders," who once controlled Xinjie City for over a decade.


    The backgrounds of "The Five Elders" varied, but were similar in one respect: they all started from gangs, moved on to enterprises, took control of the livelihoods of the citizenry, and finally established the order of the city.


    Initially, when they had control of Xinjie, relations among The Five Elders were tense, with endless overt and covert struggles.


    Unexpectedly, after being purged from the power center of Xinjie City by Yan Chen and General Ye, they ended up living together and even becoming good friends...


    It could be considered a whimsical twist of fate.


    However, as Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had discussed, although these five elderly men had withdrawn from the core stage of power in Xinjie City, they still wielded a considerable influence over it.


    Just this afternoon, Qiu Tu had taken the time to engage in a deep conversation with Tang Feifei¡ªyes, a truly deep exchange.


    In the midst of it, they came to a consensus: the authority they had now was temporary and superficial.


    Only by using this power to rally more people and solidify their base at the grassroots level could they make this authority endure.


    Only then, when Yan Chen returned, would they be able to stand up to him and even marginalize Yan Chen!


    So, who wielded the most influence over the grassroots of the three major institutions in Xinjie City?


    Clearly, it was The Five Elders...


    After all, the grassroots of the three major institutions were the middle class of old Xinjie City, or their children.


    And they had all been subordinates to The Five Elders...


    Thus, gaining the support of The Five Elders could mean quickly penetrating the grassroots of the Investigation Bureau, thereby fulfilling their goal of sidelining Yan Chen.


    After setting the goal of winning over "The Five Elders."


    The remaining question was... whether "The Five Elders" were still willing to get involved in these power struggles or not?


    And... how would Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei persuade "The Five Elders"?


    Regarding the first question, Qiu Tu soon gave Tang Feifei a definite answer.


    Over this period, "The Five Elders" had actually been getting restless. (Chapter 138)


    According to the objective development laws of cities in the Planning Area, within one to three years after a city''s founding, many contradictions that were suppressed at the outset tend to erupt in unison.


    The various major families and forces of the original city, having gradually adapted to the rules of the Planning Area, would start scheming to wrest power and profit from the middle and upper echelons coming down from the Sanctuary.


    "The Five Elders" were no exception.


    Hence, the two of them had a basis for cooperation with them.


    As for the second question, how to persuade "The Five Elders," Qiu Tu had thought of several aspects.


    The first aspect was undoubtedly "enticement."


    If The Five Elders were still craving power and wished to exert their influence, then Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would give them power and influence.


    After all... the Investigation Bureau belonged to Yan Chen, the two of them wouldn''t mind spending its resources.


    Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, being essentially newcomers in Xinjie City, didn''t have many confidants to install. So... they would install those of The Five Elders instead.


    Promote some confidants of The Five Elders, or transfer them to key departments. Give power to The Five Elders.


    By doing this, they could not only draw The Five Elders to their side, but also plant landmines between Old Wu and Yan Chen.


    ¡ª After Yan Chen finished his seclusion, if he didn''t adjust those positions, The Five Elders could continue to use their influence; but as soon as he did, friction between the two parties would inevitably intensify.


    Beyond "enticement," the second aspect was "displaying strength."


    Simply providing benefits would only make people greedier; showing one''s own potency formed the basis for genuine cooperation.


    And this strength wasn''t just in terms of influence, but also in actual power.


    That is to say... Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had to show The Five Elders that they were capable of dealing with them at any moment.


    Only then could they prevent The Five Elders from taking the benefits offered but then betraying them at the next turn.


    Hence... there was tonight''s grand performance...


    Qiu Tu flung away rockets with one hand and then single-handedly intimidated three squads of the Lianzhen! Eventually, hundreds of Special Service Detectives appeared and captured all the Lianzhen mobsters.


    Actually, Qiu Tu didn''t know from the start that he would be facing rockets this evening.


    Throughout the afternoon, he had been practicing his Second Order "Order Space," specifically working on "Static Bullet."


    He aimed to create a staggering scene where countless bullets flew at him, but he stopped them all in mid-air.


    For this, he had practiced all afternoon until he was finally able to effortlessly hold the bullets'' trajectories in place. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was only because his spiritual power had greatly increased after becoming a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened that his "Order Space" could "pause" and "move." (Chapter 218)


    Otherwise, he couldn''t have pulled off such a "performance."


    Of course, even so, he was fully equipped with defensive Cataclysmic treasures, just in case his abilities failed and his attempt to impress turned fatal.


    Luckily, even though the Lianzhen used rocket launchers instead of firearms, these were still within the effective range of his abilities, allowing Qiu Tu to showcase his terrifying strength in front of The Five Elders.


    After running through all of his arrangements for the afternoon in his mind, Qiu Tu also returned to his senses.

 Chapter 331 - 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    He whispered a few words to Qin Shuman, hung up the phone, and then stepped towards The Five Elders.


    Soon, the two sides met.


    Qiu Tu was the first to greet them, "Elder Lu, Elder Fang, Elder Tian, Elder Wei, Elder Xie. I''m truly indebted to you all today for helping vacate the villa next to mine to hide the troops."


    "And for diverting the patrol away."


    "Otherwise, my ''lure the enemy in deep'' and ''catch them all in one go'' plan tonight would have been quite difficult to execute." sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although Qiu Tu''s main goal was to showcase his military strength in front of The Five Elders, the excuse he used was: United Front was as slippery as eels, if it was a chance encounter or an attempt to apprehend them in advance, there was a high chance that half would escape.


    Hence, Qiu Tu wanted to use himself as bait to lure them into Longshan Road, and into his villa before capturing them all in one go.


    The reason was both legitimate and reasonable.


    Moreover, The Five Elders probably guessed Qiu Tu''s true intentions and also wanted to witness Qiu Tu''s "military strength," so they quickly reached an agreement, which led to this grand spectacle.


    At this moment, after watching the grand spectacle, The Five Elders'' feelings were evidently mixed.


    Elder Lu, the leader of The Five Elders, looked deeply at Qiu Tu and then genuinely lamented, "The times have truly changed..."


    As he spoke, the horrifying scene of Qiu Tu single-handedly deflecting a rocket flashed through his mind.


    Earlier, The Five Elders had all witnessed that shocking moment through the cameras installed around Qiu Tu''s villa in advance.


    Even though they had already learned of the Cataclysmics and the Catastrophe Power from various sources.


    But knowing and seeing were different matters.


    Especially since Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic ability was very special, and this scene was specifically trained for and performed by him, the visual impact was incredibly shocking.


    Thus, in that instant, the five men had only one thought: The times have truly changed...


    It was no longer the era of conventional weapons, but the Era of Disaster...


    Following this line of thought, the five men pondered even more:


    If Qiu Tu were to come to assassinate them, could they escape unscathed?


    The answer was clearly negative...


    Therefore, at that moment, they understood: they either do not cooperate, or once they do, they must keep their promises faithfully.


    This cooperation was irreversible!


    Thinking this way, after his reflection, Elder Lu also took the initiative to gesture to Qiu Tu, "Minister Qiu, let''s go to my villa for a detailed discussion."


    "We have also prepared some gifts for you..."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, "Then I shall respectfully comply."


    Saying so, the group headed to Elder Lu''s villa.


    The Five Elders'' villas were, of course, located in the core area of Longshan Road, as they were Xinjie City''s most distinguished individuals.


    The defensive forces along the way were clearly stronger, and with the United Front''s attack today, The Five Elders had deployed even more personnel.


    Hence, along the way, Qiu Tu saw many private armed forces, whose physique and equipment were comparable to the Special Service Department''s.


    In fact, they might even be stronger than the Special Service Department, having been battle-hardened through many fights.


    When Qiu Tu initially eliminated Jia Shu, besides wanting to utilize Liu Xiongyuan, his contingency plan was actually the private military forces of Longshan Road. (Chapter 184)


    At that time, he had figured that if Liu Xiongyuan did not agree, he would then borrow long guns through Fang Ming and snipe Jia Shu personally...


    Arriving at Elder Lu''s villa in the center of Longshan Road, the six men stepped in.


    After entering the villa''s living room and taking their seats, Elder Lu looked at Qiu Tu and smiled, "I heard that... Minister Qiu is particularly fond of the ''Facial Milk'' service at the Emerald Fort Night Club."


    "Coincidentally, we old fellows haven''t washed our faces for a while."


    "Hence, today I''ve also specially selected a batch of quality ''Facial Milk.''


    "Now, let me call them in, and we''ll talk about our collaboration while washing our faces!"


    As he spoke, Elder Lu lost his smile and clapped his hands.


    After a moment, two rows of beautiful women with attractive figures walked in.


    They wore revealing clothing, with a silk miniskirt at the bottom that barely covered their vital parts, and a light gauze bellyband on top.


    Pair after pair of fair and generous breasts were partially concealed under the bellybands, making them even more enticing.


    Before the six men, they bowed in unison, "Welcome to the distinguished guests~~~"


    Hearing the pleasant sound like that of an oriole, Qiu Tu pretended to show a look of intoxication and appreciation on his face, but the corner of his eyes quickly swept over the five elders...


    The five clearly had seen much of the world, and having been with many women over the years, despite the rich and enticing scene before them, their expressions remained somewhat serious, lacking much lust in their eyes...


    ''Indeed... Those with great ambitions cannot indulge in sensual pleasures.''


    ''I''ll start abstaining from tomorrow!''


    ''Oh, no. Starting today! After all... tonight they made me do it. This is all for work...''


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Elder Lu also began to speak slowly.


    He leaned on the sofa and smiled at Qiu Tu, "Shall we start now?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Let''s begin~"


    Upon Qiu Tu''s agreement, the young women quickly settled next to the six men in order.


    Elder Lu had indeed arranged everything with sincerity, with each person being flanked by beauties, their enjoyment apparent.


    "Slap slap~~slap slap~~" Feeling the soft comfort on his face, Qiu Tu lifted his head from the ''Facial Milk'' and asked, "Elder Lu, what did you think of the grand spectacle tonight?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Lu lifted his head from the ''Facial Milk.''

 Chapter 332 - 260 Quitting Lust Tomorrow (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Perhaps it''s been too long since he last washed his face with milk, as his complexion had become much redder.


    He looked at Qiu Tu and then said with a smile, "Minister Qiu''s proposal is quite interesting."


    "You said that by working together, we can ensure Xinjie City is still governed by the People of Xinjie."


    "You''ll handle the relationships upstairs, while we do the groundwork. Together, we control the Investigation Bureau."


    "To be honest, all of us were really interested."


    "But... we''re old now, and we''ve lost our grip on power. Whether our subordinates will still listen to us, and to what extent, that''s what we''re really unsure about."


    Hearing Elder Lu''s words, Qiu Tu, who had been brooding over the facial cleanser in front of the young woman, replied in a muffled voice, "Elder Lu is too modest."


    "Back when my brothers and I were still mingling with the gangs, we had heard of your esteemed name."


    "Controlling the pure water source of Xinjie City, over a million people''s drinking water depended on your mood."


    "Not to mention the two major business groups under you, you also support seven or eight gangs."


    "Our Wen Mountain Gang is said to be one of the gangs under your control."


    "So I''m very aware of how your subordinates feel about you."


    "The same goes for Elder Fang, Elder Tian, Elder Wei, and Elder Xie."


    "That''s why I believe that as long as you''re willing to stand up, there would certainly be an overwhelming response."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Fang, who ranked second, slowly said, "Actually... apart from whether our subordinates still recognize us or not, we are also very concerned about Director Yan''s attitude after his seclusion ends."


    Compared to Elder Lu''s deflections, he was much more straightforward, "You promise to promote our people, but... when Director Yan returns, will he demote them again? Will he be displeased with us?"


    "These are all things we need to consider..."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Qiu Tu smiled as he pinched the dough in front of him and said bluntly, "When in this world are there ever perfect opportunities?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To gain something, one must take on the corresponding risks."


    "If there really were a surefire way to profit without risk, how could outsiders have a chance at it?"


    "We would have dealt with it internally a long time ago."


    "So, this is a huge gamble. If we win, we govern the Investigation Bureau together. If we lose..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "You elders, with your status and positions, Yan Chen wouldn''t possibly eradicate you completely."


    "It seems you would just stay as you are now, retiring peacefully here...."


    "That''s not much of a loss, right?"


    "Besides... haven''t you also not given up lately, always looking for opportunities?"


    The Five Elders, although they once held high status, equivalent to the current Three Giants of Xinjie City,


    they had after all retired and were directly cleared out by the Three Giants.


    Therefore, even though they still held a certain influence, compared to someone like Qiu Tu, who had real power in the Investigation Bureau as Deputy Minister, they were somewhat lesser.


    Therefore, while Qiu Tu outwardly showed them great respect, he kept firm control of the conversation.


    At first, Qiu Tu had spoken roundabout on the subject, but now, seeing the "Five Elders" actually hesitating, he decided to lay it all out and speak plainly.


    At this moment, hearing Qiu Tu delving straight into this sensitive matter,


    The Five Elders exchanged glances, as if communicating their opinions through their eyes.


    A moment passed... Suddenly, Elder Lu broke the silence, changing the subject.


    He asked Qiu Tu with a smile, "By the way, isn''t Minister Qiu still unmarried?"


    "The Pharmacist you keep in the villa... is she your...?"


    -----


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words! Begging for the Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 336 - 262: That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    From the actions of The Five Elders tonight, it was clear they came prepared.


    Obviously, they had been collecting data and information on the middle and senior ranks of the Investigation Bureau long before, and had been laying out their plans early on.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu found them, they were able to come up with such a detailed and interconnected plan in such a short time.


    This also meant that those who made it onto their list tonight must be those they had verified and who were still obeying them now.


    Moreover... due to the weaker foundation of trust between the parties, this was certainly not the complete list.


    Just now, Qiu Tu had merely glanced over one page of the list and found that it included at least sixty to seventy people.


    Moreover, these sixty to seventy individuals were all Second-Class Investigators, First Level Detectives, or even Deputy Staff.


    These were the seeds of the Bureau Chief ranking sequence.


    Besides these sixty to seventy people, how many confidants did The Five Elders have in the Investigation Bureau? Forty? Fifty? Sixty?


    And beyond the Investigation Bureau, in the military and City Hall, how many confidants had The Five Elders planted?


    Apart from these directly commandable confidants, how many people could The Five Elders influence?


    Thinking it through, despite The Five Elders having stepped down, they had been continuously infiltrating the three major power institutions throughout this year with significant effect.


    It was only because their upper-level connections had been severed and they could no longer place confidants in the middle ranks; moreover, the elite families who were close to them were tacitly excluded from Xinjie City''s core power circle by Yan Chen and the other Two Giants.


    Otherwise, they would still be the Local Tyrants of Xinjie City.


    ''These five old men are really terrifying....''


    ''No wonder Yan Chen and the others would rather cooperate with elite families like the Qin Family, just to suppress these five old men.''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu also briefly looked over the list in his hand.


    The Five Elders were thorough in their work; the list not only categorized the Deputy Staff, First Level Detectives, and Second-Class Investigators, but even classified and annotated the various departments properly.


    Thus, Qiu Tu only needed a quick glance to grasp the details of The Five Elders'' promotion list.


    43 Second-Class Investigators promoted to First Level Detectives.


    22 First Level Detectives promoted to Deputy Staff.


    9 Deputy Staff promoted to Staff Chiefs.


    If this promotion list were truly confirmed, then it could be said that The Five Elders'' strength in the Investigation Bureau would greatly increase.


    43 teams, 31 departments, all would be influenced by The Five Elders.


    Of course... they would also obey Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    Combined with the thirty-some confidants Qiu Tu himself intended to promote, and the unknown number of confidants Tang Feifei had hidden,


    once this wave of promotions passed, at least close to half of the teams and departments of the Investigation Bureau would be controlled by Qiu Tu''s side.


    ''Enough to contend with Yan Chen.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu closed the list in his hand, then looked towards Elder Lu and said with a smile, "Elder Lu, Director Tang and I will go back and study this list thoroughly."


    "Rest assured. As long as their abilities are indeed good, and... they know what they should and shouldn''t do, we will certainly focus on cultivating them."


    The Five Elders clearly understood Qiu Tu''s hint. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What they should and shouldn''t do", in plain terms, was to make these dozens of people understand whose side they really should take in the future.


    It wouldn''t do for them to switch sides to Yan Chen the moment they got scared after Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei promoted them.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, The Five Elders exchanged glances. This time, Elder Lu personally gave his assurance.


    He looked at Qiu Tu with a grave and serious tone, saying, "Minister Qiu, rest assured, these people are all trustworthy."


    Whether they could be trusted or not wasn''t for The Five Elders to decide, so Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "I plan to meet with these individuals tomorrow."


    "At that time, my secretary will notify them."


    "After the meetings, I will call Elder Lu to communicate and confirm the final list."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then added, "So, I would appreciate it if you could pass the message to them tonight, that they are my people now and must follow my orders."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Elder Lu nodded slightly, "No problem."


    Once the cooperation had been settled, the atmosphere on the scene immediately became more harmonious.


    Possibly because they had truly boarded the same boat, the six individuals clearly became more sincere.


    However, as the conversation grew livelier, Fang Tangtang, who had been standing in the center of the living room like an exhibit, was nearly in tears.


    She was just a girl from a collateral branch of the Fang Family; by lineage, she should have been the granddaughter of Elder Fang''s younger brother''s fourth son.


    She had never even dreamt of meeting a significant figure like Elder Fang, let alone her own grandfather, whom she had seen only a few times.


    Since her family''s connection to Elder Fang was distant, they had received much lesser protection.


    Her father and mother were just relying on the leftovers of Elder Fang''s influence to have decent jobs in Xinjie City, getting some extra income from the Fang Family every month.


    Tonight, she had already gone to bed early at home. Suddenly, Elder Fang''s secretary came to her house and woke her up.


    Saying that she was to meet Elder Fang.


    In front of such a significant person as Elder Fang''s secretary, her parents didn''t dare say a word. After confirming with her grandfather over the phone, they handed her over to Elder Fang''s secretary.


    Thus, in a daze, she followed Elder Fang''s secretary and several other attractive young women to Longshan Road.


    It wasn''t until after entering Longshan Road that she learned the full story from the other girls: apparently, there was a great power that even Elder Fang had to curry favor with, and he was "selecting consorts."

 Chapter 337 - 262: That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    So, all the eligible, unmarried girls of the Fang Family were summoned to Longshan Road.


    It was only upon arriving at Longshan Road that Fang Tangtang learned it was not just her family; the other four families of equal status to Elder Fang were also gathering eligible, unmarried girls, hoping to win the favor of this great personage.


    At that moment, Fang Tangtang, even with her limited understanding of the politics in Xinjie City, gained an intuitive impression of the unseen great person''s power and influence.


    Because of this, she never imagined she would be chosen. All she wanted was to be quickly selected and then go back to sleep¡ªshe was still so sleepy.


    So, with that thought in mind, she waited and waited, and finally, her name was called.


    Frankly speaking, Fang Tangtang was very scared appearing suddenly before so many important figures, and she didn''t know how to react.


    Thus, she could only clutch the corner of her clothes, hanging her head, timid and daring not to make any movements.


    Then, something unexpected happened: she was chosen.


    At that moment, Fang Tangtang''s mind went blank. She had no idea why this had happened or what she should do.


    So, she just stood there, dazed, watching the nobles converse in a language she couldn''t understand at all. She felt a bit faint¡­.


    With worry and fear added in, her eyes were already reddened, and she was close to crying¡­.


    At this time, perhaps sensing the girl''s anxious and frightened emotions, Elder Fang glanced over and beckoned in a timely manner, "You''re called Tangtang, right? Come here."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Fang Tangtang swallowed and obediently took steps toward him.


    Maybe it was because she was dizzy or maybe because she was scared, but after taking just one step, her legs gave way, and she stumbled to the ground.


    Falling to the floor, Fang Tangtang looked up for help at the six individuals. But they just sat on the sofa, watching her with cold eyes.


    Seeing this, Tangtang bit her lip, got up from the ground, and then carefully walked over to Elder Fang.


    Only then did Elder Fang act as if he had just seen Tangtang fall, and jokingly said with warmth, "How big are you already, and still tripping over."


    Having said that, he didn''t even wait for Tangtang to respond. He took Tangtang''s hand and walked to Qiu Tu, placing it in Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Then he patted Qiu Tu''s hand and said, "I''m entrusting my granddaughter to you now."


    "She is the jewel of our Fang Family, so you must treat her well."


    Hearing Elder Fang''s words, Tangtang looked up at Qiu Tu with a puzzled face.


    She wanted to say... she wasn''t any jewel of the Fang Family and had never even met Elder Fang.


    But... thinking of her parents, thinking of her grandfather, she could only lower her head timidly.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu, too, was smiling as he held Tangtang''s hand, then said, "Elder Fang, don''t worry, I will treat Tangtang well."


    "Although I might not be able to give her a status, I will always be good to her."


    The Five Elders had arranged so many direct relatives, but Qiu Tu chose none; as soon as a collateral relative was suggested, Qiu Tu agreed, essentially to "break the agreement."


    The Five Elders wanted to secure an alliance through marriage, to bind Qiu Tu with pillow talk, but Qiu Tu was not interested.


    Pillow talk was one thing, but marriage was out of the question.


    Not to mention that Qiu Tu currently had no intention of marrying; even if he did, he certainly would not marry a woman he had never met.


    Qin Shuman, Shen Lingshuang, or even Tang Feifei, weren''t they appealing?


    And from the perspective of interests, didn''t each of his women have a background stronger than that of The Five Elders?


    Being a live-in son-in-law to them was better than forming an alliance with The Five Elders.


    So, from the very beginning, Qiu Tu had been prepared to break the agreement.


    And for this, he had laid groundwork for a long time. He believed The Five Elders had more or less guessed his intentions.


    Indeed, after Qiu Tu said this, aside from Fang Tangtang''s bewildered face, The Five Elders showed no surprise.


    Elder Lu smiled and said, "No worries. We are not old fogeys."


    "In troubled times, ah. Let''s keep it simple."


    "As long as you truly care for Tangtang, we are content."


    Qiu Tu smiled and reached out to wrap his hands around Fang Tangtang''s slender waist, then said, "Elder Lu, rest assured, I will definitely take good care of Tangtang."


    The words of the few sounded extremely warm and sincere. But underneath, they were so cold¡­.


    In a few words, the girl''s fate was decided¡­.


    ¡­.


    Night.


    Fang Tangtang''s dowry villa.


    In the bedroom, Fang Tangtang looked bewildered at Qiu Tu, not quite grasping the situation: was she... married now?


    Fang Tangtang felt like everything was just a dream.


    She didn''t even know who the person before her eyes was, and yet it seemed she had followed this person vaguely.


    Two hours ago, she was still sleeping in her own bed at home.


    And now, as she was thinking this, Qiu Tu also turned around and looked at her with a calmness verging on emotionlessness, saying, "Change your clothes."


    2 minutes later, Fang Tangtang''s enviable, ample buxom burst forth from her clothes, held in Qiu Tu''s hands¡­.


    15 minutes later, accompanied by a cry from Fang Tangtang, a cherry blossom slowly bloomed on the bedsheets¡­. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The night wasn''t long, but for Fang Tangtang, and perhaps many others, it was a life-altering one.


    The next day, Fang Tangtang got up. Qiu Tu was already gone, as if nothing had happened the night before.


    Bearing the pain, Fang Tangtang got out of bed. As soon as she stepped out of the bedroom, she realized her mother seemed to have been waiting outside the door all along.

 Chapter 338 - 262: That Night with Her (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    Seeing Fang Tangtang come out, her mother poked her head in to look at the bedsheets in the bedroom.


    Upon seeing the clear bloodstain on the bed, an overjoyed expression instantly appeared on her face.


    She was a bit excited as she grabbed Fang Tangtang and asked in a low voice, "Last night... last night, did you and Minister Qiu, you know?"


    Fang Tangtang turned crimson at the mention.


    Seeing this, her mother''s face grew even more joyful, "That''s great, that''s great. Now we have an explanation for the head of the family! And our family is going to prosper!"


    ....


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau.


    Qiu Tu had momentarily put Fang Tangtang to the back of his mind.


    She was just a woman, after all; when it''s time to consume, consume you must.


    Indecision and procrastination don''t suit anyone, let alone a monk.


    Moreover, he knew that consuming Fang Tangtang last night was a result that was good for everyone.


    The Five Elders Council would be completely reassured, knowing that Qiu Tu was sincere in wanting to cooperate, and not just keeping up appearances with Fang Tangtang as a surface couple.


    Fang Tangtang and her family would also receive kindness and support from The Five Elders.


    As for Qiu Tu...


    Recalling his various trials from last night, he could confirm: indeed, having enough facial cleanser truly could suffocate someone!


    It was really soft and comfortable!


    With that thought, he secretly admired Fang Tangtang''s inherent facial cleanser physique for a moment before refocusing his mind on important matters!


    The Investigation Bureau was still not under control, Yan Chen hadn''t lost the Deputy Speaker position yet, and Moonlight Lake hadn''t been detonated; Qiu Tu couldn''t afford to be careless.


    Everything he currently possessed, including the rich ladies he had picked like choosing a concubine last night, including Fang Tangtang who was sent to his bed after just one glance, including the several hundred Special Service Detectives guarding him, all came with his power, which would vanish should he lose it.


    Therefore, after arriving at the Investigation Bureau today, he met all 74 people on the list from last night, one by one.


    His purpose was simple, besides getting a basic understanding of them, Qiu Tu also wanted to check their [Loyalty].


    Based on their [Loyalty], he would decide whether to promote them or not.


    Last night, after The Five Elders notified them to follow his command and they had expressed their allegiance to him, a superior-subordinate relationship was established between them and Qiu Tu, and so their Loyalty was displayed.


    Somewhat to Qiu Tu''s surprise: out of those 74 people, 50 had a Loyalty above 40.


    Of the remaining 24, aside from 4 problematic individuals with Loyalty below 20, the rest were all above 30.


    This also showed the control The Five Elders had over them.


    The Five Elders had been in decline for a year and a half, and yet these people still did as they were told.


    Qiu Tu suspected that the Loyalty of those Confidants to The Five Elders must all be above 60.


    However, this didn''t worry Qiu Tu much.


    With the [Loyalty Game], Qiu Tu felt it was only a matter of time before he turned that batch of The Five Elders'' Confidants into his own.


    ''They were yours before, but they will all be mine in the future!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced at the list once more before taking the prepared promotion list and leaving the office to find Tang Feifei on the 12th floor, ready to officially perform a major blood change in the Investigation Bureau!


    Taking the elevator to the 12th floor.


    Just as Qiu Tu was stepping towards Tang Feifei''s office, he saw two individuals tussling at the door of Tang Feifei''s office.


    Su Xiaowan, "Secretary Tan, waiting here all the time is useless. The Bureau Chief doesn''t want to see you means she doesn''t want to see you."


    "And why are you pleading on Director Zheng''s behalf? Aren''t you Minister Qiu''s secretary?"


    At the end, Su Xiaowan''s face was filled with curiosity and gossip, clearly a bit puzzled about the relationship between the three people.


    ------


    Still 2 chapters totaling 10,000 words haha. The next chapter is around 24:00. Looking for Monthly Tickets~~~ S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 339 - 263: Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tan Hui Min''s face also turned noticeably awkward.


    She unnaturally gathered the stray hair by her ear and then stuttered, "I''m not pleading for Director Zheng, but explaining his actions."


    "I am indeed Minister Qiu''s secretary, but Minister Qiu is also a person who acts fairly. He knows that Director Zheng was used by others and feels... um... that such a punishment is a bit too severe."


    "So... I''m not trying to ask Director Tang to let Director Zheng go, but to give him a fair punishment."


    Hearing Tan Hui Min''s totally untenable excuse, Su Xiaowan looked at her as if she were looking at an idiot.


    Su Xiaowan pointed to her own nose and then said with an innocent face, "Secretary Tan... I may be a bit silly, and my brain isn''t the sharpest. But I''m not that silly."


    "Your excuse can''t even deceive me, let alone the Bureau Chief?"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tan Hui Min became anxious and hurriedly tried to explain further, but at this moment, out of the corner of her eye, Su Xiaowan just happened to see Qiu Tu.


    She blinked her eyes and then looked up with a face full of surprise and waved, greeting, "Minister Qiu~~ Minister Qiu~~"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s greeting, Qiu Tu, who had been happily watching the drama from behind, knew he couldn''t continue to watch any longer.


    So he walked towards the two with a smile, taking those brisk steps.


    Meanwhile, hearing Su Xiaowan''s greeting and the footsteps behind her, Tan Hui Min''s face turned deathly pale in an instant.


    Her expression froze, and she stiffly turned around, then looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of despair.


    What is a person''s most embarrassing and frightening moment?


    It''s not lying, but being caught lying by the very person they''re lying about.


    And moreover... this person has his hands stained with blood, is notoriously ruthless, and kills without batting an eye.


    Especially considering the corpses of United Front members brought from Longshan Road this morning, those United Front members who were tortured with severe punishment...


    And the widely discussed tale within the Investigation Bureau of Qiu Tu catching a rocket launcher with his bare hands, then overpowering a squad of five United Front members with his own strength.


    At that moment, Tan Hui Min went blank, her legs weakening, barely able to stand.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, who was walking towards her, forced a fake smile, and opened her mouth to say something.


    But as the words reached her lips, she felt her mouth dry and her throat tightening, as if she couldn''t utter a word....


    While she remained silent, Su Xiaowan did speak up. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps because she was one of Qin Shuman''s "stunt doubles" and had worked on cases with Qiu Tu, sharing secrets, she always saw Qiu Tu as one of her own.


    So, she bounced over to Qiu Tu, tugged at Qiu Tu''s sleeve, pointed at Tan Hui Min, and complained, "Minister Qiu, you''re not looking after your secretary."


    "She came to see the Bureau Chief early this morning. As she''s your secretary, the Bureau Chief thought it was arranged by you, so he met with her."


    "But who would have thought she''d actually plead for Director Zheng in front of the Bureau Chief?"


    Saying this, Su Xiaowan felt a relatable anger, "Director Zheng is the one who framed and trapped you, trying to put you to death!"


    "Such a person, not being executed by a firing squad is already a show of your magnanimity! Your secretary should condemn him with you and turn this case into an ironclad one!"


    "But she actually pleaded for Director Zheng!"


    Saying this, Su Xiaowan pouted cutely and discontentedly, "I really don''t understand whose side she''s on!"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s vivid words, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Tan Hui Min''s loyalty is, of course, with Zheng Tao right now.


    However, in the future, that loyalty might become his own....


    While being accused by Su Xiaowan, Tan Hui Min watched Qiu Tu with a pale face, like a convict waiting for her sentence.


    Time and again humiliated in various plays by Qiu Tu, Tan Hui Min had long seen Qiu Tu''s true nature.


    He was a devil who took pleasure in tormenting the human heart.


    So when she realized she had run into that devil, her heart was already filled with despair.


    She was fully prepared for the upcoming exposure, humiliation, and torment.


    However, at that moment, something unexpected happened.


    Qiu Tu touched Su Xiaowan''s head and then said with a smile, "Xiaowan, you''ve misunderstood. Indeed, I asked Secretary Tan to find the Bureau Chief."


    "I also feel that Director Zheng''s punishment is a little too harsh. This is not conducive to the stability and unity of our Investigation Bureau at the moment."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min was dumbfounded at first, and immediately afterward, she looked at Qiu Tu in shock.


    Clearly, she had no idea why Qiu Tu would cover for her!


    And... what did Qiu Tu say just now? He also thinks Director Zheng''s punishment is too severe?


    For someone of Qiu Tu''s status, even if not every word is golden, he still has to take responsibility for what he says.


    With Qiu Tu saying this just outside Tang Feifei''s office door, it will soon be spread throughout the Investigation Bureau.


    So... is Qiu Tu truly planning to spare Ah-Tao?


    Thinking thus, Tan Hui Min found it hard to believe for a moment.


    Yesterday, she had shamefully bared her body, and Qiu Tu even used his fingers to enter her, subjecting her to a round of humiliation.


    Even then, Qiu Tu did not relent.


    And now, he''s relenting?


    For a moment, Tan Hui Min''s brain short-circuited.


    But simple-minded Su Xiaowan was more accepting of the new developments.


    Hearing that Qiu Tu was preparing to let Zheng Tao go, she first gave a cute "Ah?" and then scratched her head before saying, "I see."


    "Xiaowan doesn''t understand. But Xiaowan thinks there must be a good reason for the Minister''s decision."

 Chapter 340 - 263: Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Having said that, she cheerily said to Qiu Tu, "Does the minister want to see the Bureau Chief now? I''ll go and let her know."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Please do, Xiaowan. That would be troublesome."


    Su Xiaowan cutely nodded her head and then hurriedly "pitter-pattered" into the office.


    At this time, after seeing Su Xiaowan leave, Qiu Tu walked over to Tan Huimin.


    He naturally placed his hand on Tan Huimin''s waist, then looking towards Director Tang''s office door, he started speaking indifferently, "I was wondering why you weren''t in the office all morning."


    "So you were here to see Director Tang...."


    Feeling the warmth of Qiu Tu''s hand, Tan Huimin''s body trembled.


    She intended to pull away Qiu Tu''s hand, but remembering what he had said just a moment ago, she didn''t dare to move.


    She lowered her head to her ample chest and whispered pleadingly, "Minister... please, save Ah-Tao."


    Once she finished, she looked up, her eyes slightly reddened, and said, "I really can''t live without him."


    Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu looked down at her and teased, "Aren''t you going to offer something this time?"


    "Just an empty plea?"


    The words from Qiu Tu made Tan Huimin''s body uncontrollably shiver.


    Qiu Tu looked up at the tightly shut office door and then blandly said, "In my homeland, when making a plea, you need to show your...."


    "Stop, don''t say anymore!" Perhaps the subject was too shameful, as Tan Huimin reached out and grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Qiu Tu looked down at Tan Huimin, and she also looked up at him with teary eyes.


    Gently touching her pretty oval face, Qiu Tu leaned in and whispered in her ear, "My lady, you...."


    Qiu Tu deliberately stretched the sound, causing Tan Huimin, who only heard the first three words, to involuntarily recall what Qiu Tu had said yesterday, "My lady, your body is still very honest...."


    It also made her involuntarily remember Qiu Tu''s teasing from yesterday.


    While she clenched her legs together as she was flooded with these memories, Qiu Tu softly finished his sentence, "My lady, you''re... so beautiful."


    Qiu Tu''s sudden earnestness overwhelmed Tan Huimin.


    And at this moment, the office door was opened from the inside.


    Su Xiaowan stepped out and said to Qiu Tu, "Minister, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you inside."


    After that, she looked at the two of them with a somewhat puzzled gaze at their bizarre and somewhat intimate posture, blinking her eyes.


    Seeing Su Xiaowan''s expression, Tan Huimin quickly let go of the arm she was holding in panic.


    Qiu Tu smiled in response and then nodded to Su Xiaowan, "Alright, I''ll go in now to see her."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu also told Tan Huimin, "Come with me."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin was clearly surprised.


    She knew that her relationship with Qiu Tu was far from that of a confidant. Qiu Tu never involved her in serious discussions.


    So why had he suddenly decided to include her today?


    Was there some sort of scheme?


    Thinking of Qiu Tu''s manipulative tactics, Tan Huimin felt both fear and trepidation.


    But whether for work or for personal reasons, whenever Qiu Tu asked, she had no means to refuse, so she could only bite her lip and follow Qiu Tu into the office with her long legs.


    Staying behind, Su Xiaowan curiously watched Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, then looked bewilderedly at Tan Huimin''s back.


    ''After all... Is the world of influential people this complicated? What exactly is their relationship?''


    ...


    Ever since forcefully taking charge of the Investigation Bureau yesterday, Director Tang had obviously become much busier. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The upper echelons of the Investigation Bureau didn''t want to get involved in the conflict between Director Tang and Yan Chen, nor did they want to offend Huang Shangzong, so they all kept a watch from the sidelines.


    Moreover, with Secretary Bai being captured, this resulted in many of the basic affairs of the Investigation Bureau piling up on Director Tang.


    So, when he arrived at Director Tang''s office, she was incessantly flipping through and annotating documents.


    Knowing that Qiu Tu would come, Director Tang, without raising her head when she heard his footsteps, said, "Take a seat first, I''ll finish this document and then we can talk."


    Given the close relationship between the two, Qiu Tu naturally didn''t act like a stranger. On hearing her words, he then seated himself on the chair across from Director Tang''s desk.


    Meanwhile, Tan Huimin obediently stood behind Qiu Tu, her hands crossed over her abdomen, silent.


    Waiting thus for a minute for Director Tang, she then set aside the document and raised her head to look at Qiu Tu.


    Director Tang was already attractive, and her wheat-colored skin and spirited eyes and brows added to her remarkable aura.


    Now, with the power of the Investigation Bureau in her hands and each word and deed determining the fate of tens or hundreds of thousands of people of Xinjie, her presence had become even more formidable.


    Her eyes, like those of a lioness, were domineering and compelling, making it difficult for others to meet her gaze directly.


    Her gaze first fell on Tan Huimin.


    With just one look, Tan Huimin felt as if she had been targeted by a wild beast; her body swayed unconsciously and she began to sweat.


    Director Tang glanced at her indifferently, then turned to Qiu Tu, speaking with the authority of a superior, "Well? Have you got any results?"


    Seeing Director Tang''s assertive demeanor, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember how they had intensely deliberated on plans the day before, with her going at full throttle.


    Honestly, the only thought Qiu Tu had at that moment was: Second Order Cataclysmics just aren''t enough. I need to raise my own strength!


    After a momentary drift in thought, Qiu Tu returned to the present.


    When the conversation turned to serious matters, both became more solemn.

 Chapter 341 - 263: Madam, Arent You Going to Pay a Price? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    He looked at Tang Feifei with a serious expression and said, "This morning, I had my subordinates call all the confidants of The Five Elders to my office for a meeting."


    "Apart from four who may have some issues, the rest are quite good. They could be worth cultivating and using."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu stood up and handed the document he was holding to Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei took the document, opened it, and saw that it was two pages long.


    After looking up at Qiu Tu, he said, "The first page lists the confidants I''ve cultivated during this period."


    "Cao Dabiao, although somewhat slippery, is still relatively trustworthy. He can be placed in the Administrative Office as a section chief for now to take advantage of his strengths."


    "Moving from a deputy section chief in a strong department to a section chief in a weaker department will also encounter much less resistance."


    "Chen Feng is calm and composed, with the air of a great general. He got injured while saving me and is still in the hospital, but once he is discharged, he should be capable of holding his own."


    "I think we could arrange for him to take a position as a deputy section chief in the Action Division."


    "As for the others, like Eagle, Ah-Kun, Ah-Tai, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, they were either my brothers from before or the direct lineage who weathered storms with me, and they can be trusted."


    "I plan to promote them all to First Level Detectives this time and place them in the Political Department''s Action Division, so nearly half of the Action Division would be under our control."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei played with the pen in her hand, thoughtful.


    After a moment, she looked down at the second page, glanced at the list provided by The Five Elders, and then fell into deep thought.


    After a moment, she looked up at Qiu Tu and inquired, "Where do you think we should first place these seventy people from The Five Elders?"


    Qiu Tu did not hesitate to say, "Special Service Department."


    Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, as if pondering Qiu Tu''s suggestion.


    Qiu Tu also explained his thought, "Although we''re currently managing the Investigation Bureau on behalf of Yan Chen, when he comes back, all power must be returned to him."


    "At that time, only those under your authority''s protection will be the safest."


    Tang Feifei leaned back in her chair, her attractive wheat-colored face full of contemplation¡­.


    Qiu Tu said, "And your authority has been squeezed by Yan Chen to just the [Training] department."


    "Over this past year, the level of the detectives trained by the Special Service Department is there for all to see."


    Qiu Tu said, "When I was under the protection of the Special Service Department, they fired hundreds of shots and couldn''t even take down a single enemy." (Chapter 6)


    "We can take this opportunity to place that batch of First Level Detectives into the Special Service Department and then, under the guise of training, transfer the squads they control to the Training Department for training."


    "In this way, even if Yan Chen comes back, you will be able to protect this group of fresh forces."


    "With these thousands of detectives, plus the few hundred I control in the Political Department, we will also have a foundation in Xinjie City and be able to contend with Yan Chen."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei closed her eyes and pondered for a while. After a moment, she placed the pen on the table and then said decisively, "Then, let''s do it your way!"


    "I''ll go find Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin now to promote these people''s positions!"


    Having said that, the ever-decisive Tang Feifei picked up the telephone from the table, ready to call the other two senior leaders.


    Just at that moment, however, Qiu Tu stopped her, "Bureau Chief, wait a moment."


    Qiu Tu glanced at Tan Huimin beside him and said, "I actually have another matter to discuss on this visit."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s movements halted, and then she looked at him.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "My secretary has been telling me that Director Zheng has been wrongfully accused."


    "I''ve reflected on my interactions with Director Zheng."


    "Actually, we''ve always had a good relationship. He was even willing to leave his family in my trust."


    ------ S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For those who have just caught up to this point in the story, let me tell you. Two chapters of 10,000 words each are generally released daily, one at midnight and another at 4 a.m. or 5 a.m.


    You can all read them together in the morning~~


    Seeking Monthly Tickets~~~


    ```

 Chapter 342 - 264: Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon mentioning "Trust Wife and Foster Son," Qiu Tu''s gaze swept across Tan Huimin without betraying any emotion.


    Tang Feifei didn''t understand the implication of Qiu Tu''s words, but Tan Huimin fully grasped the humiliation embedded in them.


    Her hands involuntarily clenched tight.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu carried on, "That''s why I think there''s likely been a misunderstanding."


    "So, I would like to meet him personally, interrogate him."


    "And see if he has anything he''s willing to share with me."


    "If there really is some misunderstanding, then I think either reducing the punishment or even releasing Director Zheng would be possible."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin abruptly looked down at him.


    If Qiu Tu suggesting Zheng Tao''s punishment was excessive at the door of Tang Feifei''s office could be interpreted as making excuses for her,


    now Qiu Tu''s initiative to make such a request definitely wasn''t for making excuses; he truly meant it!


    ''Could it be... he actually plans to let Ah-Tao off?''


    For a moment, Tan Huimin herself couldn''t quite believe it.


    Therefore, following that thought, some other terrible ideas started to take root in her mind:


    Could it be that Qiu Tu intends to... in front of Ah-Tao, do something to me...?


    Or perhaps... plan to use Ah-Tao''s release to make some other excessive demands from me...?


    Thinking of these possibilities made Tan Huimin clench her hands even tighter.


    She wanted to refuse, yet could not bear to give up her husband''s only chance, so she could only close her eyes, take a deep breath, and suppress the palpitations in her heart.


    Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin with a puzzled expression.


    A woman''s intuition told her there was something off between these two.


    But then... the relationship between Qiu Tu and herself was merely transactional anyway, so she didn''t really care.


    Add to that, the last few days had been too crucial for her, so she didn''t delve into it but just nodded indifferently, "Okay. Then I''ll hand over the disposition authority of this case to you. You handle it."


    After speaking, Tang Feifei rummaged through the pile of documents on her desk, pulled out one, swiftly made a note, signed her name, and then handed the document to Qiu Tu.


    Clutching the document, Qiu Tu seemingly casually but deliberately displayed it in front of Tan Huimin, then saluted Tang Feifei, said goodbye, and took Tan Huimin with him as they left the office.


    In the office, Tang Feifei gazed at their departing figures, her eyes flickering with deep thought. But in the end, she simply shook her head slightly and then picked up the desk phone to start making calls to Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, ready to arrange for her confidants...


    .....


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin,


    Ever since Qiu Tu acquired the document that allowed him to decide Zheng Tao''s fate, Tan Huimin''s eyes had never left it.


    Qiu Tu seemed aware of her thoughts and didn''t put the document away, holding it in his hand, teasing her emotions.


    Tan Huimin bit her lip, her gaze tightly following the document, like a cat being incessantly teased by a toy.


    It wasn''t until they were in the elevator that Tan Huimin reluctantly drew her gaze back, looking unfulfilled.


    She thought of Qiu Tu''s manipulative ways, thought of her own terrible speculation. In the end, unable to control herself, she looked down and asked, "Commander, you... you won''t, in front of my husband, with me... with me..."


    Tan Huimin didn''t finish her sentence, but Qiu Tu guessed her meaning.


    He was taken aback for a moment, then with a smile said, "Zheng Tao is lucky."


    "Huh?" Tan Huimin lifted her head in confusion.


    Qiu Tu suddenly pinched her chin, gazed into her eyes, and said with a light laugh, "I''d rather not let him witness how I manipulate you."


    "He... at most, he could only listen to the sounds."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin''s face changed color, and she quickly took a step back. Then she said with a look of despair, "Commander, I beg of you, this really cannot happen."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at her with a mocking smile and suddenly asked, "So... if he doesn''t hear the sounds, if he doesn''t see, I can play with you as I wish?"


    Tan Huimin:...


    Tan Huimin realized she had unwittingly fallen into another of Qiu Tu''s verbal traps. Her chest heaved a few times as she struggled to suppress the mortification in her heart.


    Then she prepared to discuss this matter with Qiu Tu thoroughly.


    However, just then, Qiu Tu changed the topic abruptly.


    He said, "Did you catch what I and Director Tang discussed earlier?"


    The sudden topic shift confused Tan Huimin for a moment, and she reflexively nodded.


    After nodding, Tan Huimin immediately felt a bit of regret.


    Indeed, she had listened to the entire conversation between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei and was aware of all their schemes,


    including planting a confidant, collaborating with The Five Elders, and controlling the Training Department, among other things...


    Honestly, even she felt the content of this conversation was too important, that she shouldn''t have listened.


    So, she kept reminding herself: in one ear and out the other. She must not remember it.


    Otherwise, if this secret were to be leaked, Qiu Tu might pin the blame on her, taking the opportunity to shame her.


    Who would have thought that Qiu Tu would suddenly ask this while she was distracted?


    So, for a while, Tan Huimin felt regret. She intended to find some cover. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke again.


    He looked at the slowly opening elevator doors, then said to Tan Huimin in a calm voice, "When you see Director Zheng later, tell him everything you saw and heard."

 Chapter 343 - 264: Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Ah?" Tan Huimin''s brain couldn''t keep up with Qiu Tu anymore.


    However, at this moment, Qiu Tu did not give Tan Huimin much time to react. As soon as the elevator doors opened, he stepped out immediately.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s departing figure, Tan Huimin was unable to respond for a while.


    It was only after a moment that she suddenly snapped out of it and rushed out after him...


    Upon reaching the ninth floor, Qiu Tu casually selected a few confidants and then instructed Tan Huimin to carry the documents and bring Zheng Tao out with them.


    As the deputy director, Qiu Tu naturally sat in the interrogation room, smoking and pondering his next steps while quietly waiting.


    With his position elevated and his power increased, there were many things he no longer needed to handle personally.


    Sometimes, all he needed was to say a word, and hundreds of confidants would get things done for him.


    Power... isn''t that what it''s all about? Just like last night, when he ordered 300 Special Service detectives to ambush the anti-government armed forces; just like when he said he didn''t like something, and young women of marrying age from five major families had to get up and come before him for his selection.


    The cigarette quietly burned, carrying away Qiu Tu''s thoughts and giving him a higher understanding of his path [Order-Politics]...


    Soon, while Qiu Tu was there letting his mind wander, there was a knock on the door of the interrogation room from outside.


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses, took a deep drag from his cigarette, and squinted towards the door.


    Ding Xiaoliu walked in, respectfully saluting Qiu Tu, "Minister, Zheng Tao has been brought here."


    Qiu Tu looked over, and then he saw Zhu Huoyan and Li Xian, one on each side, holding Zheng Tao at the door, waiting for Qiu Tu''s command.


    As for Tan Huimin, she followed behind the three, looking at Zheng Tao with a worried face.


    In just two days, Zheng Tao seemed to have lost a lot of weight, and his spirit seemed to have dwindled significantly.


    A once efficient and robust man now looked much older.


    Qiu Tu glanced at him and then said to Ding Xiaoliu and the others, "Let the suspect take a seat."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Ding Xiaoliu led Zheng Tao to the seat for the accused, handcuffed him, and then tactfully left the interrogation room.


    Soon, only Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao, and Tan Huimin were left in the room.


    Qiu Tu looked at Zheng Tao and then said with a smile, "Director Zheng, I really didn''t expect that the next time we met, our identities would have changed so drastically."


    Upon saying this, as if a thought had just occurred to him, Qiu Tu spoke with a look of realization, "Oh, that''s right. If it weren''t for your wife''s pleas, perhaps you wouldn''t have had the chance to see me at all."


    Having spoken, Qiu Tu ignored Zheng Tao whose face had flushed to the color of liver and stood up, patting Tan Huimin''s shoulder affectionately, "Alright now. Madam Zheng, Director Zheng, I have already brought him up."


    "The rest is up to you," he continued.


    "You said he had been wronged, acting against his will. Fine, I''ll give you a chance. Interrogate him, and as long as he clearly conveys his grievances, I promise he''ll be let off the hook."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu left the interrogation room without even a glance at Zheng Tao.


    Accompanied by the ''clank'' of the iron door closing, all sounds in the interrogation room were cut off.


    Outside the door, Ding Xiaoliu, Zhu Huoyan, and Li Xian stealthily snuck a glance inside the interrogation room.


    Then, Li Xian, who was more familiar with Qiu Tu and had once survived a gunfight with him, approached and quietly said, "Minister... Secretary Tan seems odd. She appears to treat Director Zheng differently."


    "You didn''t see it, but just now, her eyes reddened as soon as she saw Director Zheng. To those unaware, they''d think they were husband and wife."


    Saying this, Li Xian''s eyes darted around, and he then added, "Minister, one-on-one interrogation doesn''t seem to comply with regulations, and there''s a likelihood of leading testimonies."


    "So... if Secretary Tan really extracts something different from Director Zheng''s interrogation, it would actually be invalid." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Xian''s words were very diplomatic, but Qiu Tu understood the meaning perfectly well.


    He smiled and patted Li Xian''s shoulder, saying, "Don''t worry. She won''t be able to extract anything."


    "If we were to interrogate him, there might be a chance for reversal. But with her, even if Director Zheng were to die, he would not change his statement."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Li Xian emitted a puzzled "Ah?"


    Qiu Tu simply smiled without saying anything and then waved his hand at the three and said, "You guys keep a good eye on the two of them."


    "After Director Zheng comes out, take him back to the guard room," he instructed.


    "I need to have a talk with Secretary Bai."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s command, the three immediately saluted, then resolutely responded, "Yes!"


    Qiu Tu extinguished his cigarette butt, tossed it into the trash can, and walked toward the guard room.


    He was so certain that Tan Huimin''s interrogation and efforts would be fruitless because there was a very large information gap between him and Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin had always believed that Zheng Tao''s framing and entrapment of Qiu Tu were due to the instructions of a high-level official in the Investigation Bureau and their deep-seated new and old grudges.


    Therefore, she thought that as long as Zheng Tao exposed that high-level official, it would at least halve the severity of his crimes. At the very least, he wouldn''t be completely doomed by Qiu Tu.


    As for the question whether he would be dealt with by that high-level official¡ª right now, his life was on the line, and if he could live a few more days, then so be it!


    Worst case, after being released, the two could just leave Xinjie City and head to the Disaster Zone or the areas controlled by the anti-government armed forces.


    That was still better than staying in Xinjie City waiting for death.


    What she didn''t know was... Zheng Tao was indeed acting against Qiu Tu under the direction of Secretary Bai, but the true power behind it all was the Evil God Lariro.


    Zheng Tao knew this, Secretary Bai knew, Qiu Tu knew, but Tan Huimin did not.

 Chapter 344 - 264: Scheme within a Scheme, Play within a Play (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    And colluding with the Evil God is a capital offense. Therefore, there''s simply no way to overturn Zheng Tao''s case.


    As long as Qiu Tu does not let Zheng Tao go, no matter how hard Tan Huimin tries, she won''t be able to overturn it, even if she tried ten thousand times.


    Furthermore, it''s highly probable that Zheng Tao''s loyalty to Larilo is related to Tan Huimin, and a huge secret lies hidden between the two of them.


    So, it''s even less likely that Zheng Tao would reveal anything about the Evil God to Tan Huimin.


    That''s why Qiu Tu would allow Tan Huimin to continue her efforts: only by being repeatedly rejected by Zheng Tao will she truly lose heart and despair.


    Of course, Qiu Tu isn''t just trying to torment this beautiful young woman. He had another reason for letting Tan Huimin interrogate Zheng Tao¡ªto leak information.


    Last night, during the communications between Qiu Tu and Larilo, several important clues were obtained.


    First, Larilo is still able to protect herself and won''t be Devoured by Yan Chen just yet.


    Second, Larilo''s means of contacting the outside has not been severed by Yan Chen.


    Third, and most importantly, it''s highly likely that Larilo''s key followers are either dead or captured.


    That''s why she took the risk to brainwash herself, attempting to send a message to the Great Evil God, Zhao Ji, for help.


    Larilo also revealed to Qiu Tu that she can possess her followers and see and hear what they do. (Chapter 257)


    So... Qiu Tu boldly speculated that currently, she must be possessing either Zheng Tao or Secretary Bai to gather information. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If her means of gathering information through possession was a deception to trick Qiu Tu, then aside from ancient coins, her only other method of gathering and relaying information would probably be "Enter Dream."


    And given that Secretary Bai has already defected, the only person Larilo could "Enter Dream" to gather information from is none other than Zheng Tao.


    In the division-of-labor plan between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei,


    Tang Feifei was responsible for infiltrating the Investigation Bureau, while Qiu Tu was to stall Yan Chen and disrupt the Deputy Speaker''s schemes.


    The first step in Qiu Tu''s plan was to contact Liu Xiongyuan and cooperate with him.


    The second step was to communicate with Larilo to understand her trump cards as well as her and Yan Chen''s current situation.


    The third step was then to give Larilo hope, to make her hold on desperately; then to strike Yan Chen, shaking his convictions.


    What could distract Yan Chen more easily than the fact that Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were working with The Five Elders to eat away at his power base?


    What could make Larilo feel more at ease than Qiu Tu striving to fulfill his promise to her?


    So, Qiu Tu planned to pass on all of these true and false pieces of information through Tan Huimin, then through the mouth of Zheng Tao, to the two people engaged in Devouring and being Devoured, affecting their minds and spirits.


    Qiu Tu felt that with a bit of luck, he might be able to cause both of his enemies to suffer losses.


    Moreover, there was an important point: once Yan Chen reemerges, upon learning that it was Zheng Tao who transmitted information for Larilo, given his vengeful nature, would he let Zheng Tao go?


    He''d surely execute Zheng Tao at the first opportunity, wouldn''t he?


    Then, at that time... wouldn''t Qiu Tu just need to keep playing the good guy in front of Tan Huimin, comforting her properly?


    This is what''s called killing someone with a borrowed knife, hitting several birds with one stone.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hummed a tune, ready to meet Secretary Bai and chat with her about the things he had "done" for Larilo to calm her mind.


    Incidentally, he could also probe for information on Yan Chen and Larilo from Secretary Bai to see if there was anything else he could use.


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu took steps towards the Political Department''s Guard Room, about to meet Secretary Bai,


    suddenly, his Communicator started ringing "ring ring ring."


    Qiu Tu stopped in his tracks, picked it up, and saw that it was from Cao Dabiao.


    Confused, Qiu Tu answered the Communicator, and Cao Dabiao''s excited voice came through.


    "Minister! Thank you! Thank you for your recommendation! I''ve been promoted again!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu was surprised and glanced at the time.


    It had only been a little over an hour since he left Tang Feifei''s office.


    And the promotion list had already been approved?


    Qiu Tu felt that something wasn''t quite right....


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words each, haha! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets~~

 Chapter 345 - 265: The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    As he thought this, Qiu Tu inadvertently paused in his steps.


    He didn''t continue walking forward; instead, he went to the side of the corridor bed and then opened his mouth to ask, "Big Biao, give me the details on what happened."


    Qiu Tu said, "I indeed arranged for your promotion, but it shouldn''t have come down so quickly."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao also showed a flash of surprise.


    Immediately after, he realized there might be some aspects of the situation he was unaware of. So he gradually put away his excited expression and tone, then spoke, "Brother Tu, it was half an hour ago that I received the notification from the Organizational Department.


    "The Organizational Department told me that due to your recommendation, they had given me a serious consideration and found me to meet the promotion criteria, so they decided to adjust my position."


    As Cao Dabiao said this, he paused, then continued, "I was a bit excited at the time and forgot to confirm with you. So, I just went over."


    "Once I got there, it was Deputy Director Zhao from the Organizational Department who received me." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "He talked with me about recent work and praised the achievements of my work over the past year."


    "In the end, he said that after the Organizational Department assessed, they decided to promote me to Section Chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s mind raced, calculating the timing.


    After a moment, he asked, "Did they tell you which division you''d be working in?"


    Cao Dabiao said, "Action Division, Deputy Division Chief with the rank of Principal Staff, which is to take over your previous position."


    Upon hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression suddenly changed.


    His gaze flickered, and then he asked in a deep voice, "Has anyone else received similar promotion news?"


    Cao Dabiao hesitated for a moment, then said, "Sir, I truly have no idea... because I called you as soon as I came out of the Organizational Department."


    At this point, Cao Dabiao was taken aback, then as if he had thought of something, he quickly added, "Oh! Right! Brother Tu! I think I saw Eagle and the others at the Organizational Department too."


    Upon hearing Cao Dabiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s face immediately became incredibly grim.


    After taking a few deep breaths, he then said, "Big Biao, do you trust me?"


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly patted his chest and said, "Brother Tu! Of course, I trust you!"


    "I wouldn''t be where I am today without you, and besides, we''ve been through life and death together. If I don''t trust you, then who can I trust!"


    "In this lifetime, I''m prepared to sell my life to you!"


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s resolute words, Qiu Tu did not take them at face value.


    He knew his confidants well; if Chen Feng were to say such words, it would mean they were genuine.


    But when Cao Dabiao said them, a discount of sixty to seventy percent had to be applied.


    However, since Cao Dabiao had said it, Qiu Tu went ahead and spoke frankly.


    He said, "Then Big Biao, you go back now, return the ID and documents to the Organizational Department."


    "Just say that you feel unable to fulfill the duties of the position and hope that they can reassign you or demote you back to your previous position as Deputy Section Head."


    "Huh?" Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao was clearly confused.


    In the face of power and gain, few people can maintain their original intention.


    Stumbling over his words, Cao Dabiao said, "Brother Tu... You must be joking, right?"


    Qiu Tu, expressionless on the other end of the phone, said, "Big Biao, you know me. I never joke."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s chilling words, Cao Dabiao was startled, and quickly said, "Alright, Brother Tu! I will go to the Organizational Department and return the ID right away!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty -12]


    Looking at the prompt that appeared before him, Qiu Tu''s expression showed no change.


    His subordinates are human, not machines.


    This is reality, not a game.


    Never mind suppressing a subordinate''s job like he just did; even after he was promoted from Xinjie City and the relationship with his subordinates cooled, the loyalty would gradually decrease.


    This is all just a part of human nature.


    Besides, even after losing 12 points of loyalty, Cao Dabiao''s loyalty was still a high 84 points, making him one of the most loyal amongst Qiu Tu''s subordinates.


    So he would still look up to Qiu Tu unquestioningly and follow his orders.


    The sudden drop in loyalty simply reflected the frustration in the subordinate''s heart after his superior had thwarted his progression.


    If the subordinate was appeased well or later compensated for in other ways, his loyalty could likewise quickly bounce back.


    However, if neglected or if the superior repeatedly blocked the subordinate''s promotions, even the most loyal subordinates would eventually become estranged and disloyal.


    So, with that in mind, after Cao Dabiao displayed his loyalty, Qiu Tu changed his tone and began to appease Cao Dabiao.


    He said, "Big Biao,


    "I know you must feel some dissatisfaction or unwillingness towards my decision in your heart."


    Upon hearing this, Cao Dabiao hurriedly said, "Brother Tu, you''ve misunderstood me! I don''t have any..."


    Qiu Tu took his words for mere nonsense, and then continued speaking calmly, "Do you remember what I told you on the day we first met?"


    Cao Dabiao had obviously forgotten.


    He "um..." twice, unsure of how to respond.


    But Qiu Tu slowly said, "I asked you if you had the backing of a large and powerful family, if there was a high-level supporter from the Sanctuary for you, or a Bureau Chief to back you up."


    Cao Dabiao was taken back to the night several months ago by Qiu Tu''s words.


    Back then, following orders from above, he led his team to be under Qiu Tu''s command. But on the first day he was assigned, Qiu Tu stripped him of his power, sent him away, and sidelined him completely.


    He was extremely annoyed at the time, and went to eat hot pot with Ding Xiaoliu and Ding Xiaoqi, the two brothers.


    But in the middle of the meal, Qiu Tu called him back, gave him a sum of money, and asked those questions.


    Just... even though he remembered the scene, Cao Dabiao still didn''t quite understand why Qiu Tu brought it up.

 Chapter 346 - 265: The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu also slowly said, "Now, I will ask these questions once again."


    "Do you have the backing of a large family or powerful force? Are you protected by the higher-ups in the Sanctuary, and do you have the support of Bureau Chiefs below?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao quickly let out a "heh heh" and chuckled twice, saying, "Brother Tu, you know what kind of person I am."


    "I don''t have any of those backgrounds, protections, or supports."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu retorted, "Indeed. You have nothing, so on what basis did you obtain the position of Deputy Chief of the Action Division?"


    "So many Principal Staff members want to be promoted to this position and have not succeeded. Have you not considered if there could be a problem with your rapid promotion?"


    "And with no one above you, aren''t you afraid that others will be envious, jealous, and then start targeting you, reporting you?"


    "If someone were indeed targeting you, reporting you, I could protect you once, twice, even thrice. But can I protect you every time?"


    By the end, Qiu Tu let out a long sigh and then earnestly said, "So, Big Biao, don''t be fooled. This is to ''promote and kill'' you!"


    "Someone wants to target Director Tang and me by ''promoting and killing'' you."


    "If you refuse this position, there''s no issue, but if you really accept it, you''ll be a live target waiting for them to come after."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the face of Cao Dabiao on the other end of the phone instantly turned pale.


    He was not a fool; he was just a bit too greedy and easily blinded by benefits.


    Thus, as Qiu Tu broke down and spelled out everything for him, everything became clear all at once.


    He started sweating profusely.


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +10]


    Seeing the notification that popped up, Qiu Tu knew that Cao Dabiao had listened and understood the painstaking care he had for him.


    It was only a pity that such a big benefit would be difficult for anyone to give up, so there was still a bit of reluctance in his heart.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu then slowly said, "Big Biao, actually... I already talked about you with Director Tang this morning."


    "I was hoping to add more responsibilities for you."


    "But also, we need to consider your future development."


    "So, this time I was thinking of first promoting your rank from Deputy Staff to Principal Staff, and to keep a low profile, you could transition through a less conspicuous department in the Administrative Office."


    "A promotion from Deputy Head of a powerful department to Principal Staff of the Lengshui Yamen would attract much less criticism."


    "After a period of transition, we will then transfer you back to the Political Department, and by then, it will not attract unnecessary attention."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s genuine concern in his arrangements, Cao Dabiao felt deeply touched.


    Comparing the two career paths, even a fool could see the difference.


    The earnest care from Qiu Tu and the career path he meticulously designed for him, compared to the skip-level promotion offered by the Organizational Department, was incomparably more astute.


    It would not only similarly empower him but also minimize jealousy and impact, avoiding becoming a target for being the leading bird.


    With these thoughts, Cao Dabiao felt choked up for a moment.


    This time, he did not resort to the usual polished rhetoric. Hanging his head in regret on the other end of the phone, he said, "Brother Tu, I''m sorry...."


    "Just now in my heart...."


    Qiu Tu didn''t let Cao Dabiao finish his sentence but directly interrupted him, "Big Biao, there''s no need for so many explanations between us."


    "Everyone wants a promotion, a raise."


    "Put yourself in their shoes. If someone prevented me from moving up to such a good position, I probably would have complaints too."


    With that, Qiu Tu paused and then firmly declared, "And this is exactly what those schemers want to achieve!"


    Qiu Tu said, "If I agree to your promotion, they will make you a target. By going after you, they aim to get to me."


    "And if I don''t agree to your promotion, they can easily sow discord between you and me."


    "Their hearts are so dark."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s words, Cao Dabiao finally completely understood the conspiracy of the Organizational Department.


    With a resolute face, he said, "Brother Tu! Don''t worry, I will go to the organization and make a fuss now. Say I don''t want to be Deputy Division Chief, and let them find another candidate!"


    [Cao Dabiao Loyalty +4, current Loyalty 98]


    Hearing Cao Dabiao''s words and seeing his restored Loyalty, Qiu Tu felt reassured. He hummed in response, then cautioned, "In such a sensitive time, be very careful...."


    Cao Dabiao hummed in acknowledgment.


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu quietly pondered for a few seconds, then took out his communicator and made calls to key confidants like Eagle, Ah-Kun, and Chen Feng.


    As expected, they had all received notices from the Organizational Department, saying they were recommended by Qiu Tu for position promotions.


    However, unlike Cao Dabiao, they were obviously more cautious. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, Eagle and Ah-Kun went but politely declined the promotion, opting to consider it for now, whereas Chen Feng outright rejected the offer over the phone due to health concerns.


    Afterwards, the three prepared to call Qiu Tu to inquire about the situation, only to find the line busy the whole time.


    Now, with advice from Qiu Tu, they immediately understood that it was the enemy''s plot.


    Qiu Tu told them to alert their subordinates, and then he hung up the phone.


    After ending the call, Qiu Tu sent a message to Tang Feifei, explaining the current situation.


    Tang Feifei was likely in a meeting with Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, so she simply replied with a "Hmm."

 Chapter 347 - 265: The Counterattack of the Old Foxes (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    But Qiu Tu, who was well-acquainted with Tang Feifei''s personality and abilities, felt somewhat reassured when he saw that character.


    He reflected on the entire situation, his expression becoming a bit grave.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, this was likely a probing move by either Yu Zhengyi or Shi Youxin.


    They knew that after Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had seized control of the Investigation Bureau, they would certainly start meddling in personnel arrangements, planting confidants in various departments.


    Therefore, they simply launched a preemptive strike, promoting some of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s confidants and, moreover, to some key positions.


    With just a simple action, they were able to achieve a triple effect.


    First, they could legitimately delay Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s personnel arrangements¡ªhaving just promoted a batch, the subsequent ones could wait.


    Second, if Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu accepted these appointments, it would show the Investigation Bureau how arrogant and domineering they both were, setting up mines for their future reckoning.


    Third, if Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu did not recognize these appointments, it could create a wedge between Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu and their own confidants.


    People like Qiu Tu, who deeply understood human nature and could dispel subordinates'' dissatisfaction and grievances with just a few words, were few and far between.


    At least Tang Feifei wasn''t such a person... Given her personality, she was even too lazy to explain.


    ''Indeed... One should never underestimate anyone who holds a high position.''


    It was merely a simple act of lifting to strike, yet it nearly impacted Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei''s entire plan.


    Qiu Tu had thought that after Yan Chen''s seclusion and Tang Feifei''s power grab, the Investigation Bureau would completely become his and Tang Feifei''s backyard.


    Now it seemed that they still had to be extremely careful at every step.


    None of those old foxes were simple...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel fortunate about the United Front''s attack last night. Even the Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi and the Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin were so adept at calculating.


    If last night''s attack by the United Front hadn''t happened, with the assertiveness of the Deputy Director of Operations Lai Shun, the Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, and the Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua, who knows what criticism might have come his way for moving so many people around to target him.


    ''Now it seems... the little move by Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin was actually good. At least it raised our alertness. Now we know this group of high-level officials are not sheep, but real jackals!''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu pressed down the restlessness that had been in his heart for the last couple of days due to taking control of the Investigation Bureau.


    Then he took a deep breath and stepped towards the Guard Room.


    Upon arriving at the Guard Room, led by the investigator Wang Dawei, who was eager to join him, Qiu Tu reached Secretary Bai''s quarters.


    Watching Wang Dawei unlock the door of the Guard Room, Qiu Tu patted Wang Dawei on the shoulder and spoke with great significance, "Prepare yourself in the next couple of days, the burden on your shoulders might become heavier." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s implication, Wang Dawei''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    He snapped to attention with a sharp "snap!" and gave Qiu Tu a formal salute, saying earnestly, "Yes, sir!"


    [Wang Dawei''s loyalty +8, current loyalty 57]


    As unimpressive as this loyalty score might seem, remember that previously the two had no command relationship, and Qiu Tu had no influence over him.


    So an initial loyalty of 49 indeed proved his genuine desire to align with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded at him, then pushed open the door of the Guard Room and walked in.


    Entering Secretary Bai''s solitary Guard Room, what caught Qiu Tu''s eyes was the sight of Secretary Bai writing at the desk.


    Moved by curiosity, Qiu Tu walked over to Secretary Bai''s side, bending down to see what Secretary Bai was writing.


    But upon a closer look, a myriad of black lines crossed Qiu Tu''s forehead.


    Old Bai was actually writing a diary...


    --------


    Chapter of 10,000 words, ha! Vote for the monthly ticket!

 Chapter 348 - 266: Seeing Fang Tangtang Again (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket~)

    However, Old Bai''s diary was clearly different from ordinary diaries.


    Other people''s diaries are all about which school''s girls have white thighs, or which school''s girl wore shorter shorts today;


    Or maybe today they had nothing to do, so they visited brothels to listen to music;


    Or... the Witch was so smooth.


    But Old Bai''s writings were exceptionally profound...


    "September 16th, light rain."


    "When the sun extinguishes and falls into darkness, on the other side of the world, it is also burning and climbing the clear skies. Therefore, the sun is always rising, always dawn."


    "So... when one day, I silently walk into darkness, will there be someone on the other side of the world emerging from darkness into light...."


    "Who is that person? Is he me? Is he really me?"


    Bowing his head, Qiu Tu finished reading Old Bai''s diary, which was enveloped in mist and full of philosophy. He looked at Secretary Bai with a face full of confusion and then said, "Old Bai, if you''re not feeling well, just tell me. I''d stake my position as vice-minister to get you out."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai smiled and closed the diary, then said with absolute clarity, "You''re not the kind of person who would sacrifice your future for someone else."


    "Plus, I''m not uncomfortable. I am very well."


    Qiu Tu pointed out the window to the clear sky and said, "Are you sure? Your diary entry says ''light rain''."


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai chuckled and then shook his head, "How do you know it''s not drizzling now?"


    "Are you sure the world you see with your eyes is real enough?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Secretary Bai had always spoken in circles, with some innuendo and intelligence that had to be carefully savored to understand his meaning.


    And now, after being captured by Qiu Tu, he had become even more convoluted.


    Even, Qiu Tu felt that since he captured him, Secretary Bai seemed to develop a detached aura.


    It was as if he had completed all his missions, wishes, and had no desires or pursuits for anything, and viewed power, wealth, and life and death with utter indifference.


    It was precisely this change that made Qiu Tu feel a bit uneasy.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu tentatively said, "Old Bai. Are you aware of some secret? Are you making some preparations in advance?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai turned around, then looked at Qiu Tu and shook his head, "Qiu Tu, I''ve already told you all that I should tell, and did everything I should do."


    "So, there really is nothing more I can tell you."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze deepened as he studied Secretary Bai, attempting to detect some hint in his expression.


    But Secretary Bai''s expression was utterly calm, revealing no change at all.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu thought for a moment, then decided to proceed with a planned probe.


    So, he said, "Old Bai, do you know that Larilo can possess the followers she chooses and then share their vision and hearing with her followers?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai nodded slightly, then said, "I know."


    He explained gently, "In fact, not just her, most Evil Gods have this capability."


    "That''s why Sanctuary labels some special Fourth-Fifth Order Cataclysmic Creatures as ''Evil Gods'', mainly because of their use of the power of faith."


    "Possession of a follower is just one of the common abilities of an Evil God."


    "Some Great Evil Gods of the Fifth Order even have the ability to perceive the thoughts and intentions of their followers."


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu nodded in realization. It seems Larilo didn''t deceive him with this information.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu continued, "Then do you know that Larilo has been possessing you while you were a spy, and even peeked at your diary?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai smiled, then he nodded and said, "That''s a possibility."


    "It''s just.... there''s no intelligence in my diary, so even if she looked, she wouldn''t get any clues."


    Although he said this, Secretary Bai did not express any intention to hand over his diary for Qiu Tu to examine.


    Qiu Tu, although still somewhat puzzled, was facing Secretary Bai after all, so he didn''t insist on checking.


    After a brief ponder, he continued to probe, "Last night, I contacted Larilo."


    "Although she is being Devoured by the Bureau Chief, she can still send messages to the outside world."


    Secretary Bai shook his head, "It''s useless. She can only contact two types of people."


    "One is the follower holding a ''Mimetic Coin'', a communication-type Cataclysmic Treasure."


    "The second is the important follower who has been marked with the ''Believer''s Mark'' by her."


    "For the former, she doesn''t have many ''Mimetic Coins''. Apart from the one you have, I''ve already retrieved the rest."


    "As for the latter, I''ve spent more than half a year clarifying the list and handed it over to the Bureau Chief."


    "Other than Zheng Tao and myself¡ªboth with Sanctuary identities¡ªbefore the Bureau Chief enacted the Devouring plan, he had already sent people to eliminate all those important followers." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Afterward, I deliberately made Zheng Tao oppose you and escalated the situation, letting him send his wife to your side to catch your attention."


    "Once the Bureau Chief''s plan was exposed, with your personality, you would definitely restrict Zheng Tao."


    "So... now, apart from you, Larilo can''t contact anyone outside."


    Having said this, Secretary Bai couldn''t help but ask back, "And would you work for Larilo?"


    Hearing Secretary Bai''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze became a bit complex.


    Indeed, you should never underestimate anyone.


    The seemingly harmless Secretary Bai, was actually a master strategist!

 Chapter 349 - 266: Seeing Fang Tangtang Again (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket~)_2

    While thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but say deliberately with a smirk, "Haha, well, that depends on Larilo."


    "If she offers a high enough price, there''s nothing to say I couldn''t do it."


    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu casually mentioned, "Plus, she gave me ten tasks yesterday, hoping I''d help."


    "Some are very difficult, and some are quite simple."


    "I actually wanted to do some small tasks within my power for her, but... she''s only leading me on with empty promises, not giving any practical benefits, making it really hard for me to be motivated."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai seemed unconcerned.


    He said gently, "The Bureau Chief is not much of a gambler. Unless he''s more than ninety percent sure, he won''t make a move."


    Qiu Tu asked indifferently, "So, Old Bai, do you think Zhao Ji''s involvement is within his expectations?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Secretary Bai''s expression finally shifted subtly.


    However, that change was fleeting and quickly concealed.


    But Qiu Tu still clearly caught the change in Old Bai''s expression.


    ''It seems that "Zhao Ji" does hold an unusual significance for these heavyweights from the Sanctuary....''


    ''Could it be that "Zhao Ji" is well-known in the Sanctuary?''


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think about the Sanctuary relocating Dongye State''s capital to Eastern City.


    Once Eastern City became the capital of Dongye State, experts like Huang Shangzong would all be stationed in Eastern City.


    Could it be... this move was also to guard against Zhao Ji?


    Is Zhao Ji really that powerful?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu pondered for a moment and chose to play a strategic retreat.


    He looked at Secretary Bai, then said with a smile, "Alright, Old Bai, I can see you''re not really in the mood for chatting. I''ll take my leave then."


    "There''s still a pile of work back at the department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai eventually did not manage to detain him.


    He looked at Qiu Tu seriously and said, "Qiu Tu... Zhao Ji is far more terrifying than you can imagine."


    "She could be considered one of the most powerful Evil Gods the Sanctuary has discovered."


    "Working with Larilo, even if you back out, it would be hard for Larilo to target you."


    "But if you get involved with ''Zhao Ji'' and catch her attention..."


    At this point, Secretary Bai paused, then emphasized, "Your soul might be toyed with for eternity, suffering in flames."


    Old Bai''s words were highly credible. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, upon hearing this, Qiu Tu showed a trace of deep thought in his eyes.


    ''It seems this "Zhao Ji" is indeed not to be underestimated....''


    ''So is Larilo asking me to send a message to Zhao Ji purely for help, or does she also intend to trick me?''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu etched Old Bai''s information in his mind, then stood up ready to leave the Guard Room.


    And just as his hand touched the doorknob, Qiu Tu stopped again.


    With his back to Secretary Bai, and without turning his head, he said, "Old Bai, while I can''t release you, I do have a way to arrange for night shifts in the Guard Room."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Secretary Bai looked at him with a smile and whispered, "Thanks. But... never mind."


    "I''m quite content as I am."


    After saying that, he reflected, "Humans... always chase after certain things in life. But after all the pursuit, they find it''s all for naught."


    "It''s only when you let go of material possessions and truly find your inner self that you attain true peace...."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    To be honest, Qiu Tu was finding Old Bai increasingly enigmatic.


    The depth and Zen-like meanings in his words left him befuddled and unable to unravel.


    So, Qiu Tu simply stopped trying to interpret the underlying message in Old Bai''s words and pushed the door to the Guard Room open to leave.


    Just then, Old Bai suddenly spoke again, "Qiu Tu... each high-level member of the Sanctuary has their own political stance and philosophical system."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s stride paused.


    He turned back to look at Old Bai.


    He saw Old Bai sitting there, head bowed, as if he had never spoken.


    Whether it was an illusion or not, for a fleeting moment, Qiu Tu felt as if there was a light rain falling around Old Bai.


    The rain gently wetted Old Bai''s clothes and hair....


    Qiu Tu:....


    Leaving the Guard Room, Qiu Tu remained immersed in the sudden daydream that had flashed through his mind.


    ```


    ''Political advocacy... Philosophical systems...''


    Thinking of Elder Wang whom he had met before, and his profound words, Qiu Tu vaguely felt as if he had grasped something....


    ''Philosophy... Spirit... Cataclysm Path... and the Boundless Heart Sea...''


    ''Is there any connection between these elements?''


    At this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall Old Bai''s various peculiar actions.


    In the back of his mind, Qiu Tu always felt that Old Bai seemed to be brewing something very big.


    Something that seemed not much smaller than Yan Chen''s advancement....


    .....


    Time flew by, and soon, a day had passed.


    That day, several major events took place at the Investigation Bureau.


    First, Deputy Staff Chief Cao Dabiao caused a commotion at the Organizational Department, claiming that his promotion was a setup for failure, as he simply wasn''t capable of fulfilling the duties of the Deputy Division Chief of the Action Division.


    Following this incident, Deputy Director Tang Feifei personally visited the Organizational Department to understand the personnel arrangements.


    On Tang Feifei''s suggestion, Cao Dabiao was transferred to the Publicity Section of the Administrative Office to serve as the Section Chief.


    If things had stopped there, no one would have suspected anything unusual.


    But then, Tang Feifei produced a list of over two hundred individuals up for promotion, and then met with the Organizational Department to discuss the promotion of this group of people.


    Out of the 200 people on the promotion list, besides the 70 who were confidants of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu, among the remaining 150, 70 seemed to have no faction affiliation or were just ordinary locals, and 60 were confidants of Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin.


    This move directly swayed Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, who originally wanted to reject Tang Feifei''s involvement in personnel matters.


    So, after some bargaining, they quickly reached a consensus.


    Thus... this promotion list, justified as "annual job adjustments," was freshly released.


    The initial goal of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to install their confidants was officially achieved.


    This promotion list once again established a consensus within the Investigation Bureau: Following Qiu Tu leads to a bright future....


    Not to mention others, the double promotions within a month for Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Song Qing, and others were enough to make the majority of ordinary agents, Section Chiefs, and Deputy Staff Chiefs green with envy....


    For a time, the number of people visiting Qiu Tu''s office had greatly increased....


    Besides the major internal changes in the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City also underwent some other changes.


    ¡ªThe giant tree phantom that had always stood tall over the sky of Xinjie City suddenly shook violently in the afternoon, as if some accident had occurred.


    However, right after that, the giant tree stabilized. What''s more... it even began to sprout new branches and buds.


    This change was keenly captured by various forces that had been paying attention to the giant tree phantom.


    They knew that something must have happened to Yan Chen and Larilo; otherwise, such a significant change wouldn''t have come so suddenly after the second day of Devouring.


    However, no one knew for sure whether this change benefitted Yan Chen or Larilo....


    Except for... Qiu Tu.


    ....


    In the evening, after work,


    Qiu Tu had the driver assigned by the bureau, in a new car, take him back to Longshan Road.


    Now that Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei controlled the Investigation Bureau, all the regular perks were approved instantly without delay.


    Therefore, on the same day, cars and drivers suitable for the Deputy Division Chief level were all allocated. And a villa had also been prepared and was ready for occupancy at any time.


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t go there to live: he had just taken Fang Tangtang''s virginity the previous night, and it was only right to spend the evening with her today in consideration of both emotion and reason.


    This was not only an attitude towards Fang Tangtang but also towards The Five Elders.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu was very busy that night: he needed to contact Rilo, to glean intelligence from her, and to probe further. So it didn''t matter where he lived.


    After the driver parked the car at the villa''s gate included in Fang Tangtang''s dowry, Qiu Tu stepped into the villa and saw Fang Tangtang with an apron around her waist, humming a song, and happily cooking in the kitchen.


    Her impressive figure gave the apron a lovely curve, accentuated by her captivating juvenile charm in her eyes and eyebrows.


    The term ''baby-faced with large breasts'' spontaneously came to Qiu Tu''s mind....


    Fang Tangtang perhaps didn''t expect Qiu Tu to come back so early and be a witness to her somewhat embarrassing side. Thus, her song was abruptly stopped halfway.


    In that instant, her face turned crimson with embarrassment, and she timidly bowed her head, not daring to make any moves.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quietly observed her for two seconds before inquiring, "Did something happy happen today?"


    Fang Tangtang clutched her apron and said in a low voice, "No... nothing..."


    She clearly wasn''t good at lying. Qiu Tu didn''t even need to use any psychological tactics to notice her awkwardness.


    ------


    Still 2 chapters of 10,000 words. Seeking Monthly Tickets! Next update around 24:00~


    ```

 Chapter 350 - 267: Larilos Defense Breaks (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    However, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang''s marriage was a political union to begin with; there wasn''t much of an emotional foundation.


    The only bottom line for Qiu Tu in this relationship was that Fang Tangtang not betray him; as for the rest, he didn''t care.


    So Qiu Tu simply left her with a sentence, "You''re not good at lying," then he lifted his leg to go upstairs, preparing to start contacting Larilo.


    However, he might have underestimated his position in Fang Tangtang''s heart.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s assessment, Fang Tangtang''s face went pale in an instant.


    Her eyes reddening slightly, she lifted her head to look at the back of Qiu Tu as he ascended the stairs, her mouth opening as if she wanted to explain something, but maybe the disparity between their statuses was too vast, and his towering authority placed much pressure on her.


    So she opened her mouth several times, but in the end, no sound came out.


    In the end, she could only clench her apron tightly and then slowly lower her head, daring not to say anything¡­


    Like that, she stood silently for two minutes.


    Suddenly, the smell of something burning wafted from the pot. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Startled by the scent, Fang Tangtang let out a soft cry, then turned to look at the frying pan.


    By now, the food in the frying pan had burnt at the bottom.


    With panic, Fang Tangtang moved the frying pan away from the stove and then opened the lid with a distressed face.


    The meal that used to be full of color, aroma, and flavor was now nothing but a pot of burnt smell.


    Fang Tangtang took out a pair of chopsticks and carefully picked the still intact food into a Xiaowan, then tasted it herself to check if it was properly cooked, and after confirming there were no issues, she frowned and sneakily ate it all up.


    After devouring the small bowl of half-charred dish, Fang Tangtang dumped the rest of the burnt mess, then she walked over to the wall of the kitchen and stared at a few pieces of paper on it.


    Written on the papers were names of dishes, cooking methods, and tastes. They were all of Qiu Tu''s favorites from the outside restaurants and taverns, ones he frequently ordered or praised.


    Although The Five Elders had already left the core of Xinjie City''s power, they had deep roots from many years in the city, with tendrils reaching into every corner of Xinjie City.


    Finding out the preferences of someone like Qiu Tu, who was born and bred in Xinjie City, was nothing but a minor task for them.


    Therefore, this afternoon, all of Qiu Tu''s likes, habits, and favored dishes were delivered to Fang Tangtang, who was asked to memorize and recite them.


    The Five Elders even hired a specialized kitchen maid to force Fang Tangtang to learn.


    It could be said that from the moment last night when Qiu Tu selected Fang Tangtang, her life was to revolve entirely around him. Her every liking, every habit must be aligned with that of Qiu Tu¡­


    Luckily, Fang Tangtang seemed not to be repulsed by this.


    Or perhaps... she didn''t even realize how malformed her role was in this relationship with Qiu Tu.


    She still naively thought Qiu Tu was her husband, and that everything she did was to make her husband happy and to improve their little home¡­


    After checking the recipes on the wall, Fang Tangtang had an idea in mind. She stood up and went over to a box of fresh vegetables to choose from, then started chopping, washing the pan, heating the oil, and began seriously making food again...


    With her plump, oval-shaped face, big eyes, and pert nose¡ªaccompanied by the apron and her serious expression¡ªshe was the very image of an adorable little kitchen maid...


    He went up to the second floor of the villa.


    Qiu Tu entered his study. Then he closed the door, scanned every corner of the room to make sure there were no obvious listening or surveillance devices or Cataclysmic treasures.


    He took out a small square box.


    This was a shielding device commonly used by the Political Department, capable of blocking and disrupting various monitoring and listening electronic signals, something he had taken from the department today.


    Although he believed that due to his current honeymoon phase with The Five Elders, they would unlikely do something that could harm their cooperation.


    But in times of turmoil, one can harbor malicious intentions, yet one must never lack a defensive caution.


    So, Qiu Tu was better safe than sorry.


    Thinking this, after taking all the necessary precautions, Qiu Tu took out that ancient coin from his pocket and, according to the method of contacting Larilo, rubbed his thumb three times on the front of the coin and four times on the back, then threw it onto the desk.


    This time, perhaps there was some issue, for as soon as the coin hit the table, it began spinning non-stop.


    Metallic mist drifted upwards, but the coin continued to maintain a state of rapid spinning.


    Qiu Tu looked at the coin, his brow slightly furrowed.


    He then returned his gaze to the window, looking at the sprawling green-blue giant tree that spanned the skies above Xinjie City, resembling a mountain range, composed of green light points.


    Following the afternoon''s incident, the tree seemed to have grown larger. Its branches and leaves flourished, and more sprouts and branches began to emerge from the top.


    Although it was not certain what this signified, based on this phenomenon, Qiu Tu speculated that it was very likely Yan Chen had absorbed and digested a portion of Larilo''s soul, thereby advancing his strength a step closer to the Fourth Order.


    Now, coupled with Larilo''s long failure to connect "communications", Qiu Tu couldn''t help but develop an ominous premonition: Could it be... Larilo was in trouble?


    Today, through Secretary Bai and Zheng Tao, he delivered messages that provoked Yan Chen, and then Yan Chen directly devoured Larilo?


    "Swish swish swish... swish swish... swish..."


    The coin continued spinning on the table against the laws of physics for five or six minutes, eventually slowing down and finally coming to a complete stop on the desk.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu had a bit of an ominous feeling, yet he wasn''t ready to give up hope.


    The first time he contacted Larilo, it took several tries as well.


    ```

 Chapter 351 - 267: Larilo Breaks Defense (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_2

    Larilo isn''t responding to communications now, but that doesn''t necessarily mean something has happened.


    Perhaps if I wait another half an hour, there will be a different result.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu returned to the mahogany desk, then reached for the coin and put it back in his pocket. Afterward, he picked up some of the books laid out on the desk and began to read.


    In times of chaos, books are considered one of the most valuable things. Most people''s homes no longer have any.


    Yet, in this villa study prepared by The Five Elders, books were abundant.


    Moreover, these books were both old and new. Some dated back to before the Era of Disaster while others still had the fresh smell of ink.


    Qiu Tu casually picked up two new books and flipped through them. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The written language in this world was in simplified characters, which Qiu Tu read without any difficulty.


    The book he was reading was a philosophical work called "Existence," written by someone named Rao Shou.


    Qiu Tu had never heard this name before, nor did he know who it was.


    However, the book was very interesting.


    It explored the meaning of "existence" according to philosophical thinking¡ªwhat exactly is existence.


    The relationship between life and death, and existence.


    The concepts of "id," "ego," "super-ego," "consciousness," "physical body," and so on.


    The more Qiu Tu read, the more he found it interesting.


    The philosophy book seemed to be discussing philosophical issues, but it actually seemed to be delving into the essence of the Era of Disaster.


    As he read, Qiu Tu suddenly recalled the reminder from Secretary Bai that morning: Do all the high-ups in the Sanctuary have their political views and philosophical systems?


    Political views, Qiu Tu understood. After all, those who could become high-ups in the Sanctuary indeed had their own set of methods to change the world, to alter the course of human progress.


    It was also their own methods that led to the various disagreements over the Sanctuary''s direction of governance and development.


    The other middle and high-level members were gathered around them, forming factions, because they agreed with their methods and political views.


    But the philosophical systems, Qiu Tu had not truly understood before.


    Now, through this philosophical book, Qiu Tu suddenly had a bold idea.


    The biggest difference between the Era of Disaster and the previous era of normal science is¡ªmental power and the Spirit World (the Boundless Heart Sea).


    Even the "Cataclysm Path" requires one to acknowledge their own path, to proceed and carry out along their path to gradually level up.


    This is, in fact, a form of spiritual cohesion.


    So... may philosophical systems actually be a way to refine the spirit, to establish one''s own Spirit World?


    The more he pondered, the more Qiu Tu felt that his speculation might be interesting.


    But once you find your own political views, establish your philosophical system, and build your own Spirit World, what will happen then?


    Qiu Tu felt as if all this was shrouded in layers of fog.


    And while reading, Qiu Tu didn''t forget to occasionally toss the coin.


    Every half hour, Qiu Tu would rub the coin a few times, then toss it onto the desk, listening to its spinning sound on the desk while continuing to read.


    Time passed without his knowing how long.


    Just as Qiu Tu was about to finish the philosophical book, the coin on the desk finally reacted.


    The coin spinning rapidly suddenly exploded into a mist, which then condensed into the form of Larilo in midair.


    Today''s Larilo was wearing a black high-slit gown, with her perfect figure outlined by the tight-fitting dress.


    Her snow-white, slender legs peeked out from the edge of the slit dress, with a hint of seduction.


    She wasn''t wearing shoes or socks, and her small feet appeared smooth and flawless, like works of art.


    Even though Qiu Tu''s many experiences never featured feet, he couldn''t deny that these were feet that could drive any foot enthusiast crazy.


    However, compared to her exquisite attire and appearance, Larilo''s mental state was obviously much worse.


    This could be seen by her effort to look energetic, but her overall demeanor was still listless.


    "My Pontiff~~ to think you contacted me after just a day. I didn''t expect it," she said.


    "I hope I can hear some good news from you."


    Qiu Tu observed Larilo''s condition carefully and then replied with a smile, "Your Highness, I indeed have some good news to report to you."


    "I have developed more than ten thousand followers for you!"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo was taken aback. Her lethargic spirit even picked up slightly.


    She went "Oh?" and looked at Qiu Tu with her crimson eyes, asking, "Really? How did you develop those ten thousand followers?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu solemnly explained,


    "Your Highness. Today, I took the opportunity when Yan Chen was away to fiercely advance in the Investigation Bureau and inserted a large number of confidants."


    "Now, throughout the Investigation Bureau, every department has my people. My power and reach can be said to have spread throughout the entire Bureau."


    "So, as long as you and Her Highness Zhao Ji finish off Yan Chen, his influence in the Bureau will collapse, completely unable to confront me."


    "Thus, the whole Bureau will be firmly under my control."


    "Then, even if the Sanctuary appoints a new Bureau Chief, I can quietly neutralize him," Qiu Tu added, his face full of self-congratulation. "Your Highness, by then... I, no, you will be the uncrowned ruler of Xinjie City."


    "Thousands of investigators in the Bureau will follow your commands, abide by your will."

 Chapter 352 - 267: Larilos Defense Breaks (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "Would you say that these are followers I''ve recruited for you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo¡­.


    Larilo felt her temples throbbing painfully, her complexion worsening.


    What kind of followers are these?


    If such peripheral forces that didn''t even know who they were could be considered her followers, then she would have long ago leapt into the ranks of the top ten Great Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Moreover... even if these agents could truly become her followers, that would only be possible if she managed to kill Yan Chen and break free!


    At the moment, she and Yan Chen were at a stalemate at best; she was doing well to just maintain her own existence, let alone kill Yan Chen without external help.


    Therefore, the pie Qiu Tu was drawing was huge and tempting. But Larilo couldn''t taste it¡­.


    Thinking this, Larilo took a deep breath, trying her best to hide her emotions, then feigned joy and praised, "Mm, very good. You''ve done quite well! You truly deserve to be the pontiff I chose."


    After that, Larilo probed further, asking, "Did you... have any other gains today?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly nodded, "Yes, yes, yes."


    Qiu Tu said, trying to please her, "I also went to complete the 10 tasks you assigned to me today."


    At this, Larilo''s eyes lit up, and she asked, "How did it go? How many did you complete?"


    Qiu Tu held up a finger, "One."


    Larilo¡­.


    Larilo''s heart cooled a bit, but she still kept the disappointment off her face, and asked with hopeful expectations, "Which one?"


    Qiu Tu spoke seriously, "I found out the exact time Moonlight Lake will take shape."


    "It''s tomorrow night."


    "That is to say, it''s been delayed by one day from the last time I informed you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo became irritated, almost losing her composure¡­.


    Never mind whether the news was true or false.


    The main point was that this news was of no use to Larilo at the moment!


    Now she was trapped within Yan Chen''s Domain, unable to leave.


    If Moonlight Lake hadn''t taken shape, there might have been a chance for her. Once it formed, other than causing frustration, it was meaningless!


    With that thought, Larilo forced a smile revealing a grim, charming smile, then praised him strenuously, "Good, very good. I didn''t expect you, Qiu Tu, to even uncover such information." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It seems I haven''t misjudged you."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu smiled innocently, then suddenly counter-questioned, "Your Highness, since time is so pressing, why don''t you and Her Highness Zhao Ji make a move early and kill Yan Chen to break free, then contest for Moonlight Lake?"


    At that moment, Larilo''s expression abruptly stiffened.


    Larilo had become an Evil God because she was among the smartest of the Cataclysmic Creatures; over decades of learning and evolution, she had gained a comprehensive understanding of conspiracies and deception.


    These last few days, she was simply unable to think calmly due to being trapped and schemed against by Yan Chen''s planning and Domain.


    Moreover, the least costly card in her hand was Qiu Tu. She had pinned her hopes on Qiu Tu, and that was why she had continued to act all this time.


    But now, Qiu Tu''s continuous teasing, stirring her emotions only to dash them, finally made her sense something was amiss.


    Her crimson eyes looked down upon Qiu Tu from on high.


    Qiu Tu, sitting on the chair, watched her with an ambiguous smile, devoid of reverence or awe. It was more like a performer singing a monologue on stage.


    In that moment, Larilo finally understood everything. Her last hopes died completely¡ªshe hadn''t fooled Qiu Tu with last night''s performance.


    Qiu Tu was like a hunter playing with his prey, watching his own entertainment.


    With that thought, Larilo''s lips twisted into a sneer¡­.


    ----------


    Still two chapters, 10,000 words. Continuation tomorrow!


    The last three days of the month! Your Monthly Tickets will expire if not used! I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!


    If we can maintain top 100 in the Monthly Ticket rankings, we''ll have a fan title activity next month!

 Chapter 353 - 268: Confronting Larilo (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    If it were an old fox like Yan Chen, upon discovering that his scheme had been seen through by Qiu Tu, he would likely keep a straight face as if nothing had happened. Then he would quietly lie low, continuing to set traps or lay snares for Qiu Tu.


    As for someone like Secretary Bai, who enjoys speaking in riddles, upon discovering that his plot had been uncovered by Qiu Tu, he would most likely pretend not to notice, then start to tease and probe with many hints, engaging in a battle of wits and words with Qiu Tu.


    But... Larilo is neither Yan Chen nor Secretary Bai. She is an Evil God, moreover, a brazen one with extreme confidence in herself!


    So, she sneered at Qiu Tu and stopped pretending altogether.


    She sat poised in the air, looking down from above at Qiu Tu, her crimson eyes deep and bright, her voice tinged with a devilish charm, "It seems I couldn''t hide it from you, after all."


    "When did you start to suspect something was amiss?"


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu also dropped the act. He leaned back in his chair and said with a smile, "I never trusted you to begin with."


    In front of Larilo, Qiu Tu had always been obedient, and even when he occasionally broke free from Larilo''s control, he would find various reasons to excuse his behavior.


    Thus, although Larilo had long known that Qiu Tu was no ordinary man, she had never seen him in such a state before.


    In that moment, her crimson eyes narrowed, a dangerous light flickering within them.


    She ominously said, "It seems... you really think I can''t escape, so you dare to be so arrogant?"


    "Aren''t you afraid I will survive and come after you?"


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu just laughed.


    He pointed at Larilo, then at himself, and said, "You are an Evil God, and I am a human, moreover, a senior member of the Investigation Bureau. There''s inherent hostility between us."


    "Even if I don''t provoke you, would you let me off the hook once you get out?"


    "Very well," Larilo laughed merrily upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, her little feet twitching with delight...


    Larilo, having laid out her plans in Xinjie City for so long and avoided being caught by Qiu Tu several times, was clearly not a simple character.


    So, after she laughed, her pair of crimson eyes playful, she said,


    "However, what I don''t understand is, knowing that we are destined to be enemies, why didn''t you keep up the fa?ade and drag things out with me?"


    "Instead, you deliberately mocked me, letting me see through it? Why is that?"


    As she spoke, Larilo''s eyes squinted in a quasi-smile, her lips slowly curling up as she said, "Unless... it was intentional."


    "So... do you want to cooperate with me?"


    Cooperating with an Evil God was a capital offense, so this was a proposition Qiu Tu would never entertain.


    He flatly denied it, "Your Highness, you are mistaken."


    "I just noticed that Director Yan''s Illusion of the Law underwent a significant change today."


    "I guess, he might have taken another step in devouring you."


    "We are enemies, after all, so I came specifically to mock you. After all... if I don''t do it now, I might not have the chance to mock you later."


    Qiu Tu''s words seemed righteous on the surface, and even showcased his arrogance to the full, seemingly without any issue.


    But... just as Qiu Tu understood Larilo, Larilo also understood Qiu Tu.


    In her mind, even if Qiu Tu was not a master strategist, he was definitely cunning and calculating.


    Such a person would never act without purpose. There would always be a deeper meaning.


    And for someone like Qiu Tu to start celebrating at halftime, that''s even less likely to happen.


    Thinking this, Larilo immediately guessed the reason behind Qiu Tu''s seemingly contradictory behavior:


    Qiu Tu obviously still wanted to cooperate with her, but didn''t want to give her any leverage in his words, which was why he didn''t take up her offer.


    With this thought, Larilo felt a bit more at ease.


    She looked at Qiu Tu and said seductively, "Is that so? Then my Young Pope really is heartless."


    "However... you overestimate Director Yan and underestimate me. It''s not yet clear who will win or lose between us."


    As she spoke, Larilo paused for a moment, then said with a smile, "For example... if Zhao Ji makes a move, I will definitely turn danger into safety."


    Larilo''s message was clear: she still wanted Zhao Ji to take action.


    But when Qiu Tu heard this, he decisively shook his head, "Stop dreaming. Your believers are either dead or captured. You have no one to summon Zhao Ji for you."


    "Moreover, betraying an Evil God is a capital offense, they will never come out in this lifetime."


    Qiu Tu''s message was also unmistakable: no way. Consort with an Evil God is a capital offense, I am not taking that risk."


    Larilo had never harbored any illusions about this plan¡ªif Qiu Tu were willing to accept this, he would have done so already.


    She was just throwing it out there to see his response. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So when she saw Qiu Tu''s refusal, she didn''t mind and continued, "But I might still have a chance to survive."


    "Don''t think that just because Yan Chen is devouring me now, my soul, my strength of spirit, is much stronger than his."


    "Right now, he is burning his Life in a desperate rush, trying to become a Fourth Order by devouring my status."


    "In the end... he even plans to turn his Fourth Order power into a Fourth-order pseudograde."


    "Every step is like walking a tightrope, the slightest mishap could lead to utter disaster."


    Larilo: You can''t call for backup, then you help me affect Yan Chen. If he makes any mistake, he will fail, and I will be able to escape.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu shook his head and said, "I trust Director Yan''s abilities. He''s a master strategist."


    ```

 Chapter 354 - 268: Confronting Larilo (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_2

    ```


    "Such a complex plan, he certainly made thorough preparations in advance. He even reserved multiple backup plans."


    "Moreover, he has now severed all contact with the outside world, so his mind won''t be affected by anything at all."


    "Therefore, what you''re hoping for simply can''t be achieved."


    Qiu Tu: The plan is ineffective. Yan Chen isn''t the impulsive type.


    With a slight flicker in her eyes, Larilo hesitated for a moment, as if weighing whether Qiu Tu was trustworthy.


    After a moment, she looked at Qiu Tu with profound eyes and said with a light laugh, "Yan Chen isn''t as brilliantly cunning as you."


    "And even if he really is that cunning, so what?"


    "My true body is still in the Boundless Heart Sea, in the location corresponding to Xinjie City."


    "As long as my true body can enter Yan Chen''s domain and resonate with my incarnation..."


    "Then my consciousness will be able to tap into the power of my true body, blast open Yan Chen''s domain, and lead my consciousness back."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "That must be difficult to achieve, right?"


    Larilo looked down, her expression obscured, "Not necessarily. Because the domain Yan Chen has set up isn''t just in the real world. It exists in the Boundless Heart Sea as well."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze also revealed deep contemplation.


    It was at this moment that Larilo spoke again.


    After revealing something about her true body, it was as if she had truly made up her mind, almost with a sense of resignation.


    She crossed her legs, shaking her little feet, and looked at Qiu Tu with a mischievous charm, then said, "In fact, besides the link between my true body and my incarnation, I have several other methods to escape."


    "For example, using special Cataclysmic abilities or Cataclysmic treasures to release the shackles of my incarnation and consciousness, allowing me to return at any time."


    "For example, I could self-destruct my incarnation and soul, and flee back to the Boundless Heart Sea to recover."


    "It''s just that these methods either require prior preparation or cause too much damage."


    "However... no matter what, I definitely won''t die."


    "You can let go of the thought of me dying."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu first looked thoughtful, then chuckled and replied, "Then I''m going to be disappointed."


    "It''s unexpected that Director Yan, after all his effort, still can''t advance to the Fourth Order."


    Larilo clearly understood that Qiu Tu was seeking information from her.


    She snorted softly and said, "He is already of Third-Order Peak strength. It''s not necessary for him to devour my entire soul to advance to Fourth Order."


    "I reckon devouring a large part will suffice."


    As she spoke, Larilo nonchalantly added, "Today I talked to him about some things that could agitate him."


    "While making him angry, I also increased the intensity of his devouring."


    "Although this will increase the side effects after devouring, it also accelerates the process significantly."


    Calculating briefly with her hand, Larilo then said, "At most 10 days, no, 7 days, he will probably be able to advance to the Fourth Order."


    After hearing Larilo''s intelligence, Qiu Tu quickly did the math. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yan Chen indeed gave himself enough lead time.


    Forget 7 days, even 10 days would suffice; Dongye State wouldn''t be established by then. He would still have time to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker.


    ''I must delay the time....''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smiled and then tentatively asked, "Your Highness, the Director is devouring you so swiftly, yet there are still side effects. Is there really no way to prevent them?"


    What Qiu Tu meant by "no side effects" was a ruse; what he truly wanted was to slow down Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    Larilo clearly caught the subtext of Qiu Tu''s words, so she rolled her eyes in sarcasm and said, "The Bureau Chief is devouring me, yet you want me to give him advice?"


    "I am what you call an ''Evil God'', not a ''Living Buddha'' from before the Era of Disaster!"


    Although she said this, Larilo still added with rolling eyes, "At most, you can drag it out for another 2 days."


    After speaking, her expression changed as if she suddenly experienced some pain, her body curling up and contorting.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was initially shocked, but then guessed that Yan Chen must have finished digesting the portion he devoured in the afternoon and had begun to continue devouring.


    Indeed, Larilo could only hold on for a few seconds before she no longer had the energy to communicate.


    Consequently, her figure turned into a mist of white air, which then abruptly contracted into that ancient coin.


    Reaching out to pick up the coin from the table, Qiu Tu played with it in his hand while also pondering the information Larilo had just revealed.


    Plainly speaking, there were only three angles to interfere with or interrupt Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    The first was to enlist outside help, where overwhelming force could break all laws. The second was to directly interfere with Yan Chen, affecting his mind. The third was to assist Larilo.


    Although Larilo had not yet revealed her trump card to Qiu Tu...


    But... Qiu Tu had already guessed it.


    Human thought is linear, not jumping from one place to another. Thus, every word spoken, every decision made actually exposes the information known to them.


    This is also why many people are bad at lying ¡ª their words reveal things they shouldn''t know.


    And Larilo was similar.


    She was merely seeking Qiu Tu''s help.


    But when she talked about communicating between consciousness and the true body, and using the power of the true body to blast open Yan Chen''s domain to lead her consciousness back, she clearly hesitated.


    This indicated that the plan might have several versions. She was unsure which one to tell, or whether revealing the superficial plan would render her trump card ineffective.

 Chapter 355 - 268: Confronting Larilo (Requesting Monthly Ticket of 10,000 Words!)_3

    Moreover, Larilo can still contact the outside world.


    Qiu Tu speculated, "Larilo must have some method of establishing contact with her main body, leading it into her domain."


    However, this method was likely to have significant effects, which is why she was reluctant to use it.


    As for the other trump card, Qiu Tu felt that it might be related to the last method Larilo mentioned: self-destructing her avatar and soul to escape back to the Boundless Heart Sea to recuperate.


    Qiu Tu still guessed that Larilo deliberately beautified this method.


    After all... self-destructing one''s avatar and soul didn''t sound like a minor project.


    Larilo was bound to pay a price almost as great as being devoured. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu more or less understood Larilo''s situation with Yan Chen, as well as Larilo''s trump card.


    Relying solely on Larilo, it was impossible to stall for time until after the establishment of Dongye State. So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu decided he had to interfere with Yan Chen, or urge Liu Xiongyuan to expedite the emergence of Moonlight Lake...


    ''There are at most 9 days left... no, only 5 days of buffer time.''


    ''You can''t pin your hopes on an Evil God. After all, Evil Gods have no bottom line.''


    ''Who knows if this Evil God will realize the futility and turn to discuss a coalition with Yan Chen.''


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu took a couple of deep breaths and then made a decision in his heart: He must settle everything within five days.


    Just like that, he quietly reviewed the plan over and over again in his mind.


    In the end, Qiu Tu roughly had a plan in his heart.


    Returning the rustic coin to his pocket, Qiu Tu touched his stomach and felt a bit hungry.


    He couldn''t help but look up at the clock hanging in the middle of the study.


    The clock showed that it was already half-past eleven at night.


    Qiu Tu was taken aback¡ªhe had just come to the late realization that he had been reading and waiting for Larilo the entire evening.


    With that thought, he once again glanced at the philosophical book titled "Existence," then got up from the study, went downstairs, and prepared to find something to eat.


    Descending slowly with the night light along the stairs, he reached the ground floor and discovered that the lights in the dining room were still on.


    Qiu Tu frowned and walked over, then saw that under the dim light, Fang Tangtang was dozing off, with her hands propped under her chin and her eyes closed.


    She was obviously extremely tired, her delicate nostrils breathing softly and steadily, and there was even clear drool flowing from the corner of her mouth...


    In front of her, three dishes were laid out: a pot of braised pork, a dish of spicy shredded potatoes, and a dish of stir-fried bok choy¡ªall Qiu Tu''s favorites.


    Next to the three dishes were also placed two pairs of chopsticks, one in front of Fang Tangtang, and the other at the main seat, obviously... reserved for Qiu Tu.


    From the intact state of the dishes and the orderly position of the chopsticks, it was evident that Fang Tangtang had been waiting for Qiu Tu to have dinner since she finished cooking...


    Under the dim light, the girl''s sweet oval face seemed even more beautiful...


    At that moment, perhaps sensing someone close by or hearing footsteps, Fang Tangtang jolted awake from her slumber.


    She clumsily wiped the drool from her mouth as she opened her somewhat bleary eyes.


    When her vision gradually cleared, she finally saw Qiu Tu standing not far from her.


    In that instant, her expression became a bit tense, and she quickly lowered her head, not daring to look Qiu Tu in the eye.


    After a moment, she timidly said, "Have you... finished your work? Are you ready to have dinner?"


    ------


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 Chapter 356 - 269: The Second Night with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Having said that, Fang Tangtang realized belatedly that she had been sitting there talking to Qiu Tu all along.


    She quickly got up in a panic, like a child who had made a mistake, with her face flushed and her head lowered, too scared to speak.


    The dim light shone on Fang Tangtang, adding a touch of tenderness to her, yet it also made her appear even more delicate.


    Hearing the words of the girl in front of him and seeing her timid demeanor, Qiu Tu remained silent for two seconds before asking, "Did you have dinner?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Fang Tangtang hastily shook her hand in a bit of a panic, "No, no. I''ve been waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu:....


    Qiu Tu glanced at the clock on the kitchen wall. It was 11:40 PM.


    He vaguely remembered that when he had come home, it was about 6 PM.


    At that time, the girl was cooking.


    So... had she cooked the meal and then been waiting with an empty stomach for him to return? S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Is this a tactic taught by The Five Elders, or... does she truly want to wait to have dinner with me?''


    Because of his experiences across two lifetimes, Qiu Tu did not judge the girl in front of him so easily.


    So he simply said expressionlessly, "Then, let''s reheat the food and eat together."


    "Yes." Fang Tangtang timidly agreed, hurriedly carrying the dishes, and clumsily went to reheat them.


    Despite being usually clumsy in her actions, she had some talent in cooking, so it didn''t take long to reheat the three dishes, and she even made an extra soup.


    Moving on tiptoes, she rushed to bring the dishes to the table, reverting to the quail-like appearance: head down, sitting obediently in the chair waiting for Qiu Tu to speak.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu picked up his chopsticks and softly said, "Let''s eat."


    It was only then that Fang Tangtang, with her bowl in hand, began to eat, keeping her head down.


    During dinner, Qiu Tu''s gaze tended to drift towards Fang Tangtang from the corner of his eye.


    He noticed that Fang Tangtang was also sneaking glances at him.


    Those large eyes took quick peeks at him under the guise of picking up food with her chopsticks.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu remained silent for a moment before starting a conversation. He inquired, "Did you make all these dishes yourself?"


    It wasn''t that Qiu Tu doubted Fang Tangtang. Mainly, he had seen too much deception in his former life¡ªordering takeaway and claiming it was home-cooked, and to make matters worse, it was fast-food chicken!


    So if Fang Tangtang had the Fang Family''s chef cook the meal and just pretended in front of him, it was a possibility.


    Who knew that upon hearing this, Fang Tangtang immediately looked nervously at Qiu Tu and asked weakly, "Is it... too bland?"


    Her face red, head lowered, she said sheepishly, "I... I don''t know your taste. So I didn''t dare add too much salt."


    At that, she raised her head, carefully watching Qiu Tu, and suggested, "Shall I go back and adjust it?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu hadn''t expected his simple question to lead to so many explanations from Fang Tangtang.


    However... these explanations indirectly proved that she had cooked the meal, which, in a way, answered Qiu Tu''s question.


    So Qiu Tu simply lifted his chopsticks slightly and said indifferently, "The taste is quite good. Let''s eat."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s affirmation, Fang Tangtang smiled sweetly, her large eyes curving into two crescent moons, making her look especially lovely, conveying a feeling of healing.


    Qiu Tu was momentarily lost in thought, his lips involuntarily curling upwards.


    After the meal, Qiu Tu was the first to put down his utensils.


    Seeing Qiu Tu do so, Fang Tangtang, who was eating with stuffed cheeks, quickly wiped her mouth and also hurriedly put down her utensils.


    Noticing this, Qiu Tu said, "It''s okay. Continue eating."


    Fang Tangtang''s eyes, brimming with a bit of longing, nevertheless firmly shook her head, whispering, "No need, no need. I''m already full."


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu did not insist further.


    He adjusted his clothes and stood up, ready to go back and rest.


    But just then, Fang Tangtang took the initiative to call out to Qiu Tu for the first time, "Qiu... Qiu Tu."


    Qiu Tu stopped, then turned his head to look at her.


    Possibly because of Qiu Tu''s stern expression and imposing demeanor, Fang Tangtang visibly flinched.


    She shrunk her neck and looked up at him cautiously, then asked uneasily, "Can... can I call you that?"


    After two seconds of silence, Qiu Tu nodded.


    With Qiu Tu''s positive response, Fang Tangtang''s face showed a pretty smile. Then she timidly said, "I wanted to talk to you about the question you asked me when you entered today."


    Hearing Fang Tangtang''s words, Qiu Tu was startled. His mind raced as he tried to recall, and maybe because several hours had passed, he had already forgotten what he had asked on a whim.


    Meanwhile, earnestness was written all over Fang Tangtang''s round, goose-egg face as she scrunched up her cute little nose and sincerely said, "I really did encounter something happy today."


    "It might be because the two of us are together now. Grandpa has arranged for my parents a house twice the size of the current one, along with a sum of money."


    "My mother was very happy when she came to see me today. She said that Grandpa even secured a good position for my brother in the family''s business ventures."


    Fang Tangtang, with her head down and clutching her dress, was a bit nervous, "I know all this is because of you."


    "Grandpa is so good to our family, actually, all because of you."


    "But... I get a bit nervous when I see you, so after you asked me, I subconsciously denied it."


    Hearing Fang Tangtang''s trivial worries, Qiu Tu furrowed his brow slightly and couldn''t help asking, "Why tell me this?"


    Fang Tangtang became even more nervous at Qiu Tu''s words. She whispered, "But... isn''t that what you''re supposed to do when in a relationship? Be honest with each other?"

 Chapter 357 - 269: The Second Night with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "If there''s a misunderstanding, it should be cleared up. Don''t let small things turn into grudges, ultimately becoming serious issues..."


    In the end, she herself was a bit unsure. She lifted her head, her big watery eyes looking at Qiu Tu, and asked weakly, "Did I get it wrong...?


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Fang Tangtang''s understanding wasn''t wrong. According to Qiu Tu''s experience as a person in two lifetimes, dating indeed requires honesty and clearing up misunderstandings.


    But the problem is... their relationship isn''t romantic love!


    Using words like "marriage," "setting up a family," "dating," was just Qiu Tu and The Five Elders'' way of beautifying the relationship.


    None believed it, yet... Fang Tangtang, this silly girl, actually believed it.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gave Fang Tangtang a suspicious glance, trying to see if the girl in front of him really misunderstood, or if she was pretending.


    But all he met was a pair of clear, water-like eyes.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Forget it. Let her think what she wants.


    I''ve been too busy lately to explain it to her.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu nodded and then said, "You''re not wrong in your thinking. You did well.


    "Keep it up in the future."


    Fang Tangtang''s face blossomed into a sweet smile upon receiving Qiu Tu''s affirmation, clearly feeling a lot happier...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was at a loss for words for a moment and could only stand up and return to the upper floor.


    He randomly picked a guest room, took a bath, Qiu Tu returned to his study, brought the edition of "Existence" back to the guest room, and then started reading it leaning against the headboard.


    He planned to finish the book before going to sleep.


    This philosophical book was probably written by some big shot at the Sanctuary about their understanding of the world''s essence.


    After reading it, Qiu Tu''s knowledge about this world, the Spirit World, the real world, the Cataclysm Path, and the essence of Supernatural Power would significantly improve.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu began to slowly read the book.


    But then, he didn''t know how long he had read, maybe 10 minutes, maybe over half an hour.


    Suddenly, the door to the guest room was gently pushed open from the outside.


    Qiu Tu cautiously lifted his head from the book, and then he saw Fang Tangtang, dressed in a white valley robe, her face flushed, walking in from outside.


    Qiu Tu slowly raised a question mark above his head:? S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He looked at Fang Tangtang and inquired, "What''s wrong?"


    Fang Tangtang gently closed the door, then lowered her head and timidly said, "I''ve come to sleep with you..."


    Qiu Tu:....


    Qiu Tu felt a headache coming on.


    He really wanted to explain to Fang Tangtang: their arrangement was only a political marriage, many things were just for show, and it was enough just to let both sides understand each other''s stance.


    Last night, he took her... because he had to.


    But in the future, there really was no need to continue.


    And just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the belt around her waist.


    The next second, the valley robe slid off...


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. And he still had to read the philosophical treatise tonight!


    So, he kept his eyes on the book titled "Existence," one glance, two glances...and then he couldn''t read any further!


    ''To hell with "Existence," the meaning of ''existence'' is all about XX!''


    Thinking those extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting words, Qiu Tu jumped down and in Fang Tangtang''s exclamation, scooped her up in his arms...


    Blue Moon blushed, drawing dark clouds to cover its face.


    And Qiu Tu once again indulged in the joy of Fang Tangtang''s facial cleanser...


    In the end, Qiu Tu had only one thought.


    ''Facial cleanser really is better when it''s big!''


    ....


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up. He looked at Fang Tangtang beside him, speechless for a long time.


    ''What the hell is all this!''


    ''Why do I feel like this girl is jinxing me!''


    ''Dumb and cute thwarts the dark and crafty?''


    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu was deeply puzzled. He then tiptoed to the master bedroom to freshen up.


    Without waking Fang Tangtang, who was still asleep from exhaustion, Qiu Tu dressed in his uniform and exited the villa''s main gate.


    At this time, the driver assigned by the Investigation Bureau was already waiting outside. Upon seeing Qiu Tu, he hastily saluted, "Minister."


    Qiu Tu nodded gravely and got into the car, heading toward the Investigation Bureau.


    Throughout the journey, the image of Fang Tangtang lingered in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    After hesitating for a moment, he decided to leave a voice message on the villa''s landline, informing Fang Tangtang that he had gone to work.


    Shaking his head to clear the image of the cute girl from his thoughts, Qiu Tu refocused his attention on his work.


    He now had only four and a half days to resolve Yan Chen''s promotion. He did not have the luxury of time to dwell on romantic entanglements.


    The day before, Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, and Shi Youxin had exchanged interests, significantly promoting their various confidants.


    As a result, the influence of the three within the Investigation Bureau surged.


    Qiu Tu''s side also gained considerably from this. Cao Dabiao was dispatched to the Administrative Office as head of the Propaganda Department, and Chen Feng assumed the position of Deputy Staff Director at the Political Department''s Action Division.


    As for the other confidants, they were all promoted from Second-Class Investigators to First Level Detectives.


    Even Ah-Tai, Eagle, and Ah-Kun¡ªthose brothers not under Qiu Tu''s direct command¡ªwere all promoted to First Level Detectives, allowed to lead teams independently and undertake missions, taking a significant step into the ranks of officials.


    Considering that yesterday Larilo infuriated Yan Chen to the point of shaking the Illusion of the Law and increasing the devouring speed, it was apparent that Yan Chen was also under immense pressure and remained highly concerned about the external world.


    So... the next steps were simple. What Qiu Tu had to do was disrupt Yan Chen''s devouring process.


    By doing so, he could prevent Yan Chen from focusing entirely on devouring Larilo.


    This would not only delay Yan Chen''s process, affecting his appointment as Deputy Speaker, but also potentially add complications...


    Based on the intelligence revealed by Larilo the night before, any disturbance of Yan Chen''s mental focus and acceleration of the devouring would damage his foundation.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu was naturally determined to continue his efforts in that direction!


    As for how to affect Yan Chen, Qiu Tu actually had a plan in mind since the previous night.


    Although Qiu Tu had gleaned many methods and ideas on how to influence the devouring process from Larilo''s lips last night.


    But actually... he had asked so many questions more for intelligence gathering, rather than real intention to execute them.


    Because... he had long held a stronger trump card in his hand...


    Thinking along these lines, after arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu strolled into his office.


    Tan Huimin hadn''t come to work today. Or rather, since her attempt to persuade Zheng Tao failed yesterday morning, she had not appeared at the Investigation Bureau again.


    Qiu Tu didn''t particularly mind. Zheng Tao and his wife were a gambit¡ªif they proved useful, excellent; if not, he wouldn''t pay them much attention.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu locked his office and then proceeded to the resting room, where from the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," he retrieved a black box.


    This was a citywide communication device given to Qiu Tu by Liu Xiongyuan.


    Using this device, he could directly contact Liu Xiongyuan via a secret line, impervious to any eavesdropping by those in the Investigation Bureau.


    Holding the black box and following Liu Xiongyuan''s instructions, Qiu Tu punched in a series of numbers.


    The next second, the black box made a "clatter" sound and a miniature earpiece fell out.


    Qiu Tu took the earpiece and put it on. The earpiece emitted a "beep... beep..." waiting tone.


    Qiu Tu patiently waited a few seconds until a "click" indicated the phone was picked up, and Liu Xiongyuan''s furious voice burst from the receiver, "Damn it! Are those bastards from the United Front looking for death? They dare eye Moonlight Lake!"


    "You! Take a few teams! Go sweep their contact points directly!"


    "Wipe out as much as you find! Kill all the related personnel! Not a single one spared!"


    "I showed them mercy! At such a critical moment, to play these kinds of tricks with me!"


    After ranting for a good ten seconds, Liu Xiongyuan seemed to remember he had just picked up a call from Qiu Tu.


    He took a deep breath, and his voice softened, "Qiu Tu, what''s the matter? You wouldn''t call me like this without an urgent issue, right?"


    Qiu Tu had heard every word of Liu Xiongyuan''s tirade, clear as day.


    These old foxes always had their own agendas in everything they did. Even the most transparent and magnanimous among them were no exception.


    This didn''t mean they didn''t trust you; it was an instinct honed from years of navigating the treacherous waters of bureaucracy.


    So, while Qiu Tu quietly analyzed the intelligence Liu Xiongyuan''s words revealed, he continued the conversation, "Director Liu, I thought I heard you mention Moonlight Lake just now?"


    "What''s happened at Moonlight Lake? Is there any change?"


    ------


    Still two chapters of 10,000 words. Last three days of the month, ask for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 358 - 270: Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Liu Xiongyuan, that tough old man, huffed and then said, "What changes could there be? It''s still the same gang of petty thugs from the Anti-government Armed Forces."


    Clearly not inclined to delve deep, Liu Xiongyuan straightforwardly stated, "The benefits of that Moonlight Lake are just too immense. All kinds of powers are stirring, itching to make a move."


    "Eastern City and Xinjie City are just in the Planning Area, and the Anti-government Armed Forces have always had their nails in it."


    "Every move can''t be kept secret."


    "Therefore, upon learning that the Moonlight Lake was about to form, the United Front has been spying from the sidelines."


    "The day before yesterday, that bastard Yan Chen advanced to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver, leading to the Xinjie City Military sending several squads of soldiers over for protection, which immediately presented them with an opportunity."


    "The United Front secretly mobilized a regular army of nearly ten thousand from the Disaster Zone, ready to contest for Moonlight Lake."


    "And their spies in various cities started to frantically gather intelligence like madmen, assassinating officials."


    At this point, Liu Xiongyuan cautioned, "You also need to be careful these next few days. Your standing in Xinjie City isn''t low, and considering your past enmity with them, it''s very likely you''re also on their hit list."


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s warning, Qiu Tu politely expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Director Liu, for your concern. I will be vigilant and careful."


    With that, Qiu Tu, lost in thought, said, "I''ve only just started work today and am not yet clear on the situation in Xinjie City."


    "It seems we too must make some preparations in advance, to avoid being flustered at the last moment."


    After finishing this topic, Qiu Tu timely brought up the reason for his call.


    After a pause of two seconds, he then spoke in a low voice, "There seems to be some changes in Yan Chen''s situation..."


    Liu Xiongyuan was clearly also very concerned about the progress of Yan Chen''s devouring, so upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, his gaze sharpened, and then he asked in a deep voice, "What changes?"


    ...


    Compared to the newly established Xinjie City of just one year, Eastern City had been established for five years. In terms of political stability and urban prosperity, it was far ahead of Xinjie City.


    The streets were almost all flat, with most covered in asphalt roads.


    Lampposts were erected at regular intervals on every street, with trash cans placed in between.


    The neatly dressed people on the streets were clean, indicating they had access to stable and affordable water sources.


    From their full figures, different from the gaunt appearance of those in other cities, one could tell that their basic food needs had been met.


    On the roads, besides the occasional cars, there were rickshaws, horse-drawn carriages, and even bicycles shuttling back and forth, suggesting that the city''s fundamental transportation and trade had been restored.


    The Investigation Bureau agents in temporary uniforms were leisurely patrolling the streets in twos and threes, which also indicated the city''s security had become stable.


    And right in the middle of such a more prosperous city than Xinjie City, on the top floor of the 16-story Investigation Bureau Office Building, in the Bureau Chief''s office.


    Liu Xiongyuan was standing by the window, frowning and on the phone, while looking at the bustling scenery of Eastern City below.


    His skin was dark and his face rugged with the years, etched deeply with age lines, each one seeming to chronicle past hardships and battles.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words on the phone, his eyes were black as ink, flickering with a cold and sharp light. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After Qiu Tu finished, he said in a deep voice, "So, what you mean is, Yan Chen actually left himself a lot of leeway?"


    "Now that he''s realized something is amiss, he''s willing to compromise his future foundations to accelerate the devouring of that Evil God?"


    On the phone, Qiu Tu hummed in agreement, then said, "He clearly made thorough preparations and backup plans. Even now, he still has reserves."


    "Otherwise, he couldn''t have adjusted the devouring speed so naturally."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan said, "Then how many days does he have left to completely finish devouring?"


    Qiu Tu replied, "Five days."


    He paused for a moment, then added, "To be precise, it might only be 4.5 days."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Xiongyuan''s thick and rough eyebrows slowly arched up, as if symbolizing his unsettled mood.


    His mouth shut tight, the corners turning downward in a stern arc.


    After a moment, his eyes slowly became icy cold, "Tomorrow. Tomorrow night, I will make Moonlight Lake form ahead of schedule."


    "I will make Yan Chen''s advance to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver utterly useless."


    Qiu Tu made this call primarily to get this answer.


    So, upon receiving Liu Xiongyuan''s response, Qiu Tu felt a bit more at ease.


    However, as it was a rare occasion to make a call, he didn''t just hang up, but continued to discuss related topics.


    "Director Liu, I''ve heard that around Eastern City, several cities are also fortified by a powerful Evil God?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan on the phone grunted heavily, "Zhao Ji!"


    Qiu Tu acknowledged, "Yes, it should be her."


    Liu Xiongyuan was clearly very sensitive when it came to Zhao Ji, and he asked in a serious tone, "What about her?"


    Having no personal issues with Zhao Ji nor any secrets to hide, Qiu Tu naturally explained, "The precise intelligence I''ve received is that the Evil God Yan Chen is devouring may have some connection to Zhao Ji."


    "She''s been seeking help from Zhao Ji to escape her current crisis."


    Qiu Tu paused, then added, "I''m worried she might interfere with our plans."


    Liu Xiongyuan fell silent for a few seconds at Qiu Tu''s concern, and pondered quietly over his worries.

 Chapter 359 - 270: Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_2

    After a moment, he spoke in a softer tone, "Zhao Ji, this Evil God, is cruel and powerful. If there is one flaw, it''s her love of wealth."


    "But what she adores is not the gold and silver of the real world, but various Cataclysmic treasures, the remains of Cataclysmic Creatures, and even souls."


    "So, if one wishes to merely entice Zhao Ji to act with the promise of profit, the price Larilo would have to pay would be indeed colossal...." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu recalled the method Larilo had him use to request Zhao Ji''s help¡ªlight three sticks of incense, and softly chant "my lord Larilo" three times.


    Clearly, this involved no negotiation, more like a request without any additional benefits: Larilo is in trouble, seeking assistance.


    This seemed somewhat inconsistent with what Liu Xiongyuan had said.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu hesitated slightly before asking, "Could there be some other connection or relationship between Larilo and Zhao Ji?"


    In discussing Zhao Ji, Liu Xiongyuan always seemed extremely cautious.


    He pondered for a while before saying, "Both Larilo and Zhao Ji have been Evil Gods for many years."


    "Over these years, there''s been no intelligence suggesting any relationship between them."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu "hmmed" thoughtfully.


    At that moment, Liu Xiongyuan suddenly spoke up, "Qiu Tu...do not get too closely involved with the Evil Gods."


    Qiu Tu felt a chill in his heart.


    He wanted to explain himself but Liu Xiongyuan continued, "We''ve all been through the phase you''re in."


    "Some cases, some intelligence, some leads might indeed be verified more precisely through the Evil Gods."


    "But... Evil Gods are not so easy to deal with."


    "They are among the smartest of the Cataclysmic Creatures, skilled in disguises, scheming, and bewitching minds."


    "We''ve seen too many people who sought information from them, only to be brainwashed and fallen in the end."


    "So, don''t get too involved or collaborate with them."


    "I don''t want to see you at the execution ground."


    Having said that, Liu Xiongyuan paused, then added, "See, the approach of Yan Chen is very appropriate."


    "Have confidants to deal with the Evil Gods, take action. Meanwhile, stay uninvolved, and from a safe distance, urge them on."


    "This way, you won''t have to directly face the temptations of the Evil Gods and you can still cut ties with them. Even if the Sanctuary comes to investigate, they won''t be able to trace it back to him."


    Warmed by Liu Xiongyuan''s heartfelt reminder, Qiu Tu spoke softly, "Thank you for the guidance, Director Liu. I will keep it in mind."


    After their conversation, Qiu Tu took the initiative to say goodbye, ready to disconnect the communicator and wait patiently for Liu Xiongyuan to initiate the plan.


    But just as the call was about to end, Qiu Tu, as if something had just occurred to him, suddenly asked, "By the way, Director Liu. There''s one more thing I''d like to ask you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan showed no impatience. He asked, "What is it?"


    Qiu Tu asked, "Do you know Rao Shou, the author of ''Existence''? Who exactly is he?"


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Liu Xiongyuan on the other end of the phone was silent for a good two seconds before responding, "You don''t know him?"


    Confused, Qiu Tu replied, "Should I know him?"


    On the other end of the phone, Liu Xiongyuan gave a slight shake of the head before saying, "You should... pay more attention to the news, to the Sanctuary''s daily paper."


    "Rao Shou is the Speaker of the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Eighth Sanctuary."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback upon hearing this.


    He had guessed that Rao Shou might be one of the Sanctuary''s higher-ups, but he didn''t expect him to be of such high rank.


    What it means to be the Speaker of the Supreme Council...the highest official of the entire Sanctuary, his commands in the Eighth Sanctuary are akin to law. Every word and action, even a sneeze, could create a huge storm in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    ''So he''s the Speaker of the Supreme Council...''


    While feeling astounded inwardly, Qiu Tu sincerely thanked Liu Xiongyuan and then explained, "Director Liu, after all, I have only recently been promoted and beforehand had no way to see the Sanctuary''s news and newspapers."


    "I will apply at the Bureau today to see if they can get me an extra copy."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan showed understanding, "Indeed, it''s not your fault. Your foundation is too shallow, and you''re unaware of many basic facts."


    Continuing, he then changed his tone, "So come to Eastern City and join me. I will teach you personally."


    Qiu Tu didn''t expect Liu Xiongyuan would come around to the topic of recruitment again. He couldn''t help but smile wryly at the sudden turn.


    After exchanging a few more casual words, the two ended the communication.


    Putting the earpiece back into the small black box, the box automatically shut, securing the communicator inside.


    After placing the small black box back into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," Qiu Tu examined the intelligence he had obtained from Liu Xiongyuan.


    There were primarily three pieces of intelligence.


    The first was that the United Front had dispatched a large force to seize the imminent Moonlight Lake.


    The second was that Moonlight Lake would truly form tomorrow night.


    The third was... to cover for the United Front''s main forces, the secret agents of the Front were assassinating officials in various cities to create chaos....


    At this thought, Qiu Tu was startled: Wait a minute! Tan Huimin hasn''t shown up for work; could she have been attacked or abducted?


    Although Tan Huimin''s rank wasn''t high, she was Qiu Tu''s secretary, privy to much of the Investigation Bureau''s intelligence and high-level information, which made her a target of value for assassination.


    With this realization, Qiu Tu, having initially not been too concerned about Tan Huimin''s disappearance, quickly left the lounge and opened the door to his office.


    He planned to call a few confidants and, using Tan Huimin''s home address, search along the route for traces or for any sign of Tan Huimin.

 Chapter 360 - 270: Madam, are you alright? (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_3

    Unexpectedly, as soon as he opened the door to the office, he saw Tan Hui Min squatting by the door, holding several documents, looking utterly broken...


    For the past few days, this beautiful young wife seemed to have been wearing the same clothes, the somewhat seductive professional skirt outfit she was wearing the second time Qiu Tu saw her.


    ¡ªA sheer blouse, a form-fitting skirt, paired with a gentle wife''s bun, and the dried tear stains on her face.


    It must be said... Tan Hui Min, in her distraught state, was indeed more attractive than usual.


    Seeing Tan Hui Min safe and squatting there, Qiu Tu let out a sigh of relief¡ª it seemed Tan Hui Min hadn''t been attacked.


    However... Seeing Tan Hui Min in this dispirited state made Qiu Tu blink, feeling somewhat sorry for her.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but lower his head and ask softly, "Madam, are you alright?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min blankly raised her head to look over.


    Upon seeing it was Qiu Tu, she seemed to remember something and hurriedly stood up, then handed the documents she was holding to Qiu Tu,


    "Minister, these are the half-year work summaries of the Intelligence Section, the Interrogation Section, and the Inspection Department that you assigned the day before yesterday."


    "I went to their three departments to collect them after I came to work this morning. However, when I got back, I found the office door closed."


    Hearing Tan Hui Min''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes slightly lifted in surprise, as he hadn''t expected Tan Hui Min to still remember work under these circumstances.


    It was more commendable compared to yesterday when she left her post without a word, running to the 12th floor to plead with Tang Feifei on Zheng Tao''s behalf.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu nodded and said, "Alright, I''ll take a look."


    With that, Qiu Tu added, "Come in with me."


    Having said that, he turned back into the office.


    Behind him, Tan Hui Min walked into the office like a walking corpse.


    Qiu Tu sat down at his desk, opened the summary files while casually asking Tan Hui Min, "How many days has it been since you changed your clothes, took a bath, or rested?"


    "Go take a bath in my resting room and sleep for a while."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu felt a bit regretful. After all... given his relationship with Tan Hui Min, such words were a bit too abrupt.


    Unexpectedly, Tan Hui Min actually nodded, then said in a low voice, "Thank you, Minister."


    After saying that, she turned and went to the resting room, took off her clothes, and began to bathe.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Through the open door, Qiu Tu clearly saw the entire process of Tan Hui Min undressing.


    For a moment, he was speechless. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Good heavens. How shocked must she have been to reach such a state of negligence?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu first closed the door to the resting room and then, after some deliberation, picked up the phone and called Song Qing.


    The content of the call was simple¡ª just asking Song Qing to send over the interrogation records of Tan Hui Min and Zheng Tao from the previous day.


    Although Qiu Tu had let Tan Hui Min conduct the interrogation alone yesterday, he had secretly placed recording devices in the interrogation room while being alone, recording the interrogation content. Now it was a good time to listen and review.


    After giving out this task, Qiu Tu listened to the sound of water "pattering" in the resting room while he started reviewing the summary reports of his three subordinate departments.


    Reviewing these reports not only helped him to understand the situation of the departments faster but also served as a process for him to identify gaps and fill them in his own intelligence work.


    Hence, his primary task while going through these reports was to look for information related to Yan Chen, Larilo, Zhao Ji, and even Moonlight Lake.


    It must be said, after flipping through a few files, he indeed found some interesting information...


    ------


    Still 2 chapters, 10,000 words haha! Full attendance this month with daily 10,000 words (will also do daily 10,000 words for the last two days)! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 361 - 271: Great Evil God Zhaohui (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    The first piece of intelligence is about Zhao Ji.


    According to the Intelligence Section''s reports, Zhao Ji is the most powerful Evil God around Xinjie City. Not only has her strength reached the Fifth Order, but all her cataclysmic abilities are combat-oriented, making her extremely formidable in battle.


    Therefore, the Political Departments and Security Departments of the dozen or so cities surrounding Xinjie City have determined their most significant and also most important task since their establishment to be to devise ways to collect intelligence on Zhao Ji.


    The Political Department of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau is no exception.


    Based on the investigations of these dozen cities and more than twenty departments, it has now been basically confirmed that Zhao Ji''s "headquarters" is located in Eastern City, and her influence spans across eight cities.


    And in her vicinity, there are only three or four Fourth-Order Evil Gods, among whom is Xinjie''s Larilo.


    Thus, the territorial map of Dongye State might as well be divided intentionally according to the spheres of influence of the Evil Gods rather than being divided based on economic and geographic regions by the Sanctuary.


    Following this piece of intelligence, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help but fall into thought¡ªHuang Shangzong, as a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council, is also one of the upper echelons of the Sanctuary.


    This time he personally took charge and was stationed in Dongye State; could it be that he was here for Zhao Ji?


    And the Sanctuary has established Planning Areas on Zhao Ji''s turf over the years; could it be that they were also scheming for her domain?


    After all... as long as Zhao Ji is defeated or killed, there will no longer be any powerful Evil Gods lurking near Dongye State, and the Sanctuary can establish defensive fortifications in this region of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    With some time to assimilate, it can formally be incorporated into the Sanctuary''s territory.


    Isn''t this how all the major Sanctuaries expand little by little?


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu continued to look at the second interesting piece of intelligence.


    The second interesting piece of intelligence is about Larilo.


    According to the Intelligence Section''s information, it seems that Larilo doesn''t get along well with Zhao Ji.


    Larilo once fought Zhao Ji about seven or eight years ago and was almost slapped to death by Zhao Ji.


    Larilo then fought Zhao Ji again three years ago and was almost blasted away again by Zhao Ji.


    Finally, a year before the establishment of Xinjie City, she fought Zhao Ji once more. This time the results were not so unsightly.


    They exchanged blow for blow with several dozen moves. Zhao Ji tore off one of Larilo''s arms, a leg, and nearly twisted off her head.


    Therefore, even if there is no deep-seated enmity like a blood feud between them, there must be some deep hatred.


    This is probably why Liu Xiongyuan hesitated and mentioned that these two Evil Gods didn''t seem to have any personal dealings.


    According to the Intelligence Section, Larilo''s Cataclysm Path is "Life Reproduction."


    And among her several cataclysmic abilities, there is a high probability one resembles an ability like "Extraordinary Regeneration."


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t keep coming back for more after repeated defeats.


    As Qiu Tu perused the Intelligence Section''s collection of reports, he discovered there was not a shortage of information regarding Larilo.


    It not only recorded the traces Larilo left in Xinjie City over the past year but also documented her followers who were killed by Yan Chen, Jia Shu, and the Security Department.


    Even the overt confrontations and fights between Qiu Tu and Larilo during this period were noted in the records.


    At the end of the information about Larilo, the Intelligence Section also noted why Larilo was so eager to claim Moonlight Lake.


    The reason being, Moonlight Lake is able to produce a large quantity of "Tears of Moonlight," which is a rather common Cataclysmic Material known for its mild effects and soothing properties. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This is especially suitable for a "Life" path Cataclysmic Creature like Larilo to enhance her strength.


    Although it''s uncertain how much a whole lake of Tears of Moonlight could help Larilo, the Intelligence Section estimates that it should significantly enhance her power.


    Moreover, some investigations by the Intelligence Section even suggest that Moonlight Lake might actually be related to Larilo.


    It is suspected that Moonlight Lake was either spawned, catalyzed by Larilo, or that she moved the "seed" from somewhere else and "planted" it near Xinjie City.


    After reading this second piece of intelligence, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but stroke his chin and fall into deep thought.


    He remembered that Larilo once told him that Moonlight Lake was fated to be hers, her possession.


    At that time, Qiu Tu took it as a typical act of usurpation by an Evil God and didn''t take it seriously.


    Now it seemed there was a slight possibility?


    However, Qiu Tu didn''t fully trust the intelligence from the Intelligence Section.


    Based on what the chief of the Intelligence Section had introduced about their sources of intelligence, Qiu Tu knew that their intelligence came from three main sources.


    The first one was their own intelligence, which consisted of the information collected by agents from the government department''s intelligence branches through various forms of espionage.


    This part of the intelligence primarily consisted of various market rumors, secret news from all walks of life, and various messages from the three major organizations.


    This is also the "starting point" of the Intelligence Section''s information compilation.


    Often, the Intelligence Section would first come across an interesting core piece of intelligence through these channels and then start to frantically collect information and spy on news revolving around this core.


    The second one was summarized intelligence, which generally came from the brother departments of the Political Department.


    For instance, intelligence gathered by espionage, counter-espionage departments; as well as valuable intelligence obtained through interrogation by the Interrogation Section.


    The "Intelligence Agency" is usually the source of the most intelligence. A lot of the information about Larilo and Zhao Ji came from the Intelligence Agency, which obtained it from the Security Department''s intelligence branches.


    Lastly, the third source was the intelligence sent by the Sanctuary.


    According to the rules of the Sanctuary, the reports prepared by the Political Department''s Intelligence Section, after organization, summary, and conclusion, must be regularly reported to the Sanctuary.

 Chapter 362 - 271: Great Evil God Zhao Ji (10,000 characters for a Monthly Ticket!)_2

    While reporting to the Sanctuary, the Sanctuary would also send a lot of intelligence to the Intelligence Section.


    Some of this intelligence was related to Xinjie City, some was related to the situation around Xinjie City, and some was about important figures in Xinjie City.


    This intelligence was often obtained by the Political Department or the Security Department of other cities, summarized, selected, and distributed by the intelligence department of the Sanctuary.


    Of course, besides this passive distribution, the Intelligence Section could also apply to the Sanctuary for specific intelligence about a person, an event, or a certain Evil God.


    As long as the reason was legitimate, met the regulations, and reached the required level, the Sanctuary''s intelligence department was very likely not to refuse.


    For instance, the fact that Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, established only a year and a half ago, knew the intelligence about Larilo and Zhaohui from several years prior was actually applied for from the Sanctuary.


    After reading through the summary from the Intelligence Section, Qiu Tu picked up the summaries from the Interrogation Section and the Inspection Department to read.


    Compared to the interesting intelligence and information from the Intelligence Section, the summaries from the Interrogation Section and the Inspection Department were much more tedious.


    The summary from the Interrogation Section recorded the identities, positions, levels, and cases involved of the prisoners who were interrogated.


    The Inspection Department recorded the number of reports, information, and materials concerning officials from the City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and the military.


    As Qiu Tu had guessed¡ªXinjie City was newly established, the rules were not yet fully set, and the people had no concept of supervising law enforcement, so there were hardly any reports.


    Even if there were, they were mostly from small to medium-sized merchants reporting on the inaction of departments related to the economy and trade at the City Hall.


    These minor issues in Xinjie City at present couldn''t even count as matters warranting criticism and education...


    Having finished reading the summaries from the three departments, Qiu Tu had a clear understanding of his own responsibilities and powers!


    The Intelligence Section was truly of the utmost importance!


    It was the eyes and ears of the entire Political Department and even the Investigation Bureau.


    Controlling the Intelligence Section was like controlling the eyes and ears of the higher-ups at the Investigation Bureau.


    He could show them what he wanted them to see, and let them hear what he wanted them to hear.


    Moreover, with the authority to liaise upwards and request intelligence, the importance of the Intelligence Section was further highlighted.


    With control over this department, Qiu Tu would no longer be in the dark about anything he set out to do.


    As for the Inspection Department... Although it was the least developed and currently just about equivalent to a useless department.


    But that was only because the sword had not been drawn from its sheath.


    Once Qiu Tu sharpened this department, it would become his most powerful weapon, and also the sharp sword hanging over the heads of all his enemies!


    As for the Interrogation Section...


    Although it also held great authority, frankly speaking, it was far inferior to the previous two sections.


    Therefore, as long as it did not cause trouble for Qiu Tu, and even if it was later handed over to a new Head of the Political Department, Qiu Tu felt completely acceptable.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu put aside the summary reports from the three departments.


    The summary from the Inspection Department was handed to him personally by the Diciplinary Department, and nobody else could take it away.


    Thus, Qiu Tu''s next goal was to take complete control of the Intelligence Section.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also couldn''t help thinking about which of his confidants to transfer into the Intelligence Section to start setting things up...


    At this moment, just as Qiu Tu was thinking this way,


    "Bang bang bang" someone knocked on the door of his office from the outside.


    Qiu Tu snapped back to reality and said in a deep voice, "Come in."


    The office door was pushed open from the outside, and following that, a cute little head peeked in.


    That laughable little head looked left and right, and seeing no one else, bounced into the office with a smile, "Chief! I''ve brought you the record!"


    That cute, youthful appearance certainly belonged to Qiu Tu''s confidant, the young girl Song Qing.


    Seeing the carefree little girl, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile, and then he waved to Song Qing, "Bring it here."


    Song Qing quickly scurried over, handing over the document to Qiu Tu.


    The document was not voluminous, including one audio recording and one written material.


    Qiu Tu set the audio recording aside, then picked up the written material to take a look.


    To his discovery, it was a supplementary deposition from an interrogation¡ªadditional testimony compiled by the interrogators based on the audio and video recordings after the interrogation had concluded.


    And the person who had written the supplement was not Tan Huimin, but Li Xian.


    Possibly noticing Qiu Tu''s curiosity, Song Qing explained with her hands clasped behind her giggling, "This deposition was supplemented by Li Xian."


    "He said that since you personally arranged the interrogation yesterday, you would be very interested in it. So he worked overtime in the bureau last night, listening to the interrogation recordings to make a written version of the deposition."


    "This is for your convenience when you need to review it."


    Upon hearing Song Qing''s words, Qiu Tu''s eyes shifted slightly. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Li Xian...?" Qiu Tu recalled his impression of Li Xian.


    He was a young man in his early twenties, a little over 1.7 meters tall, and very capable.


    Qiu Tu remembered that his loyalty had always been ranked among the top few among this batch of confidants.


    And... Qiu Tu also remembered that during the Sudden Attack by the United Front, Li Xian was unlucky enough to get hit by a stray bullet in the right abdomen, nearly dying, but still he fought on the front lines. (Chapter 139)


    ''Loyal... Sharp-witted... And tenacious.''


    ''A promising talent indeed.''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of the people he had just been considering for placements into the Intelligence Section.


    For a moment, his eyes were pensive.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was pondering how to arrange his confidants, Song Qing seemed to have heard something.

 Chapter 363 - 271: Great Evil God Zhaohui (10,000 Characters for a Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Her eyes suddenly sparkled, her ears perked up, and she stealthily moved towards the direction of the break room.


    Being a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, Qiu Tu was now extremely sensitive. So, as soon as Song Qing made a slight movement, Qiu Tu detected it.


    It was only then that Qiu Tu remembered Tan Huimin was still bathing in the bathroom.


    The faint sound of "splash splash" water made the entire office atmosphere a bit suggestive.


    Song Qing looked at Qiu Tu with a face full of gossip, blinking her eyes and grinning mischievously like a buddy, she whispered gossiping, "Boss~ is it Secretary Tan? Have you scored?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Facing Song Qing, the loudspeaker, Qiu Tu dared not admit anything. He looked at her seriously and threatened, "There''s a confidential case, it''s not suitable to take to the Interrogation Section."


    "So I called her to my office, where I''m using water torture."


    Water torture is one of the most brutal interrogation methods in the Political Department''s Interrogation Section, so upon hearing that, Song Qing really didn''t dare to gossip anymore.


    She quickly raised her hand and said at a rapid pace, "Yes! Boss! No problem! I''ll just! Leave first!"


    After finishing, as soon as Qiu Tu nodded, she ran out of the office like an arrow released from its bow.


    Watching Song Qing''s fleeing figure, Qiu Tu shook his head slightly.


    "This treasure...."


    It had to be said that Qiu Tu was relatively tolerant towards Song Qing. This might be because... of the original interrogation quartet, Liu Fuping left, Wang Xi got caught, and now only Song Qing was left.


    This special relationship made Qiu Tu always a bit more caring towards Song Qing.


    ''It seems... it''s best to adjust Song Qing''s work too. A young girl like her should go to the Administrative Office for clerical work.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up the transcript of Zheng Tao''s interrogation by Tan Huimin from yesterday that Li Xian had prepared and began to read slowly.... sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Time passed unknowingly, and the "swoosh swoosh" sound of water gradually stopped.


    The sound of slippers walking could be heard in the break room.


    Qiu Tu snapped out of the transcript, he perked up his ears and listened for a few seconds, then he heard a "thump," a dull sound.


    It was as if someone had collapsed on the bed.


    Qiu Tu''s heart tightened, then he continued to listen attentively.


    But, not knowing if something had happened, there were no more sounds coming from inside the room.


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, and in the end, he put down his pen and stood up to go to the break room.


    He pushed open the break room door, passed through the living room, and arrived at the bedroom.


    What met Qiu Tu''s eyes was Tan Huimin, who had finished her bath.


    She was not wearing any clothes, having collapsed on the bed, curled up in a ball, deeply asleep.


    Her plump oval face was marked with exhaustion, her delicate eyebrows and eyes tightly shut. In just a few short days, her vivacity seemed to be drained away, and her pretty face was filled with gloom.


    Women seem to like to separate bathing and hair washing, so even though she had finished bathing, her Young Wife with a Bun Hairstyle was still dry.


    But although her hair was dry, sleeping naked in the deep autumn season was clearly likely to catch a cold.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu walked forward and gently princess-carried the woman before him with light steps.


    The woman in her sleep struggled slightly, but Qiu Tu just whispered softly, "It''s Ah-Tao."


    The woman''s body tensed up for a moment, then relaxed slowly.


    After pulling away the blanket from beneath Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu laid her back on the bed and then covered her with a blanket.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu sighed softly, then shook his head and walked towards the bedroom door.


    However, just as he was stepping out of the bedroom,


    suddenly, a prompt flashed before his eyes.


    [Tan Huimin''s Loyalty +18]


    At that moment, Qiu Tu was taken aback, belatedly realizing something wasn''t quite right...


    -------


    It''s still 2 chapters of 10,000 words. It''s the last day of the month, begging for Monthly Tickets! We have a chance to be in the top hundred this month! Begging for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 364 - 272: Madam, Dont Look Up, Its Ah-Tao (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    During this period, Qiu Tu had become extremely thorough and clear in his understanding of his two Golden Fingers.


    [Crisis Intuition], this Golden Finger, could predict crises. He could analyze his current situation based on its changes.


    Like Qiu Tu''s recent crisis, [Promise of the Evil God]. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This crisis arose because Qiu Tu promised to figure out when Moonlight Lake would take shape for Larilo.


    If Qiu Tu failed to fulfill the promise or deceived Larilo, she would retaliate and kill Qiu Tu.


    To ultimately trigger this crisis, two elements were needed. One, Qiu Tu failed to keep his promise; two, Larilo had the means to kill Qiu Tu.


    So, when Qiu Tu casually fooled Larilo last night, making her believe that Moonlight Lake would form before she was freed, and the lake did indeed take shape before her release, the [Crisis Countdown] naturally turned into a Treasure Chest.


    To put it plainly, [Crisis Intuition] had a [prophetic nature].


    However, [Loyalty Game] was different from [Crisis Intuition].


    Loyalty Game was a very "subjective" display.


    Even if Qiu Tu treated his subordinates very well, exceedingly well¡ªif they were unaware of it, their Loyalty would not change at all.


    If Qiu Tu treated his subordinates poorly, just making empty promises and deceiving them, as long as they subjectively believed in him, their Loyalty would still increase.


    Therefore, there was a prerequisite for the change in Loyalty in the Loyalty Game: the subordinates must subjectively know everything that happened.


    Applying this prerequisite to the current situation meant: Tan Huimin must be fully aware of all Qiu Tu''s actions for her Loyalty to change.


    In other words¡ªthis woman was pretending to be asleep!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt that everything that just happened was different.


    He had casually said "I''m going to take a shower," and Tan Huimin had really gone to shower; later, hearing a "bang" like a muffled sound, he thought something had happened to her, but when he checked, he found her undressed.... So, all of this was an act.


    So, was the "hunter" pretending to be the "prey"?


    With this thought, Qiu Tu became a little curious about what Tan Huimin really wanted to do.


    But he didn''t rush.


    Because... since she wanted to play the prey, it certainly wouldn''t be just this once.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu left the bedroom without any expression, even "thoughtfully" closing the bedroom door behind him.


    After that, Qiu Tu left the lounge and returned to his desk, continuing to look at the written statements from yesterday''s interrogation of Tan Huimin and Zheng Tao.


    To avoid any misrecorded content from Li Xian, Qiu Tu even took a tape recorder, playing the recording while reading along.


    About five or six minutes into reading, a "snap" was suddenly heard from the lounge, sounding like the shatter of a glass hitting the floor.


    Qiu Tu knew instantly: the hunter disguised as prey was beginning another hunt...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu calmly put down the statement and walked inside.


    Entering the bedroom, Tan Huimin''s body was again emerging from under the blanket, her heavy left breast pressing against the bedsheets, full and round.


    Her eyes were tightly shut, her face a bit flushed, her lips somewhat dry as if she had a fever; she murmured softly, "Water... water..." as she stretched her bare left arm to fumble on the bedside table.


    It seemed the water glass had fallen this way.


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu''s gaze fluctuated slightly: Feigning illness?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu did not reveal her act but played along.


    He walked over, gently taking hold of Tan Huimin''s hand, and softly said, "You want water, do you?"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll get it for you."


    Tan Huimin''s hand was smooth and cool, like jade.


    "Who... who are you?" Hearing Qiu Tu''s voice, Tan Huimin murmured with her eyes closed.


    Qiu Tu''s hand gently caressed the soft edge of Tan Huimin''s left breast, and then slid up her swan neck, reaching her beautiful oval face.


    Gently stroking her face, Qiu Tu softly said, "It''s Ah-Tao, Hui Min."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin seemed to suddenly become tense.


    With her eyes still closed, she fumbled and tightly grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand, then said, "Ah-Tao... Ah-Tao... leave quickly, get out of here."


    "I know you were instructed by Secretary Bai. You don''t really want to hurt Qiu Tu."


    "Whether you do nothing or reveal all of this, Secretary Bai will kill you."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback...


    Truth be told, Qiu Tu had considered many possible objectives Tan Huimin might have for disguising herself, and the methods she might use to achieve them. But he hadn''t thought of this ¡ª because it was too simple, too direct!


    This approach was as naive as children playing house.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu almost didn''t want to continue acting with Tan Huimin. It was just too trivial.


    However, while Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    Tan Huimin''s hand that stretched out suddenly flailed wildly.


    Qiu Tu jolted, nearly jumping to his feet in fright.


    And then, while still pretending, Tan Huimin closed her eyes and said, "Ah-Tao... you''re right to escape with a weapon."


    "But you must take good care of your weapon."


    Having said that, Tan Huimin then threw herself onto Qiu Tu, starting to undo his belt.


    Qiu Tu had seen all sorts of situations.


    Hmm... Except this one.

 Chapter 365 - 272: Madam, Dont Look Up, Its Ah-Tao (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    He had originally just thought that Tan Hui Min was simply playing "sick" and "sleeping" to seek revenge for her husband.


    To his surprise, it turned out to be cosplay?!


    Who the hell could stand this?


    And just as Qiu Tu was thinking this. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tan Hui Min, with her eyes closed, murmured softly, "When you''re going on a long journey, in addition to weapons, you must also bring food."


    "The food must be cooked, and most importantly, it mustn''t be spoiled."


    "You''ve always been careless about this, let me taste it for you."


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hiss.


    He had wanted to refuse, but.... how could he possibly refuse?


    At this moment, Tan Hui Min opened her mouth again and asked, "Ah-Tao.... do you think you can escape?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu finally figured out what Tan Hui Min''s plan was.


    In this situation, how could he refuse anything?


    So what could Qiu Tu say?


    Of course, he just stroked Tan Hui Min''s head and said, "Don''t look back... don''t look up, madam, I am Ah-Tao, and I can escape."


    With Qiu Tu''s affirmative response, Tan Hui Min finally put her mind completely at ease.....


    Half an hour later, everything was over.


    Tan Hui Min wiped the corner of her mouth, then wrapped the blanket around herself, murmuring, "Ah-Tao, once you leave, once you leave..... I''ll be relieved."


    "You must make sure to leave safely...."


    Looking at the woman in front of him, Qiu Tu knew exactly what she meant: she was using what would happen next to keep him on the hook.


    She wanted Qiu Tu to let Zheng Tao go safely and then play poker with Qiu Tu afterward....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt it was somewhat amusing for a moment.


    Don''t judge Tan Hui Min by her weak strength and low position, for she was like a wild horse with her own convictions deep inside.


    A woman like that was much more interesting than other women and was more likely to arouse a man''s desire to conquer.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s gaze inadvertently fell upon Tan Hui Min, who had curled herself up into a ball and turned over to sleep, and then twinkled slightly....


    ''You want to play, then let''s play....''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu chuckled, picked up the chest, went straight out of the bedroom, and gently closed the door for Tan Hui Min.


    Hearing the sound of the door closing, Tan Hui Min''s body, which had been a bit rigid all along, slowly relaxed....


    .....


    It seems women are born actresses.


    Even though she obviously had Qiu Tu''s "meal", Tan Hui Min still acted as if nothing had happened.


    In the afternoon, after waking up, she naturally thanked Qiu Tu and then got back to work.


    Even when Qiu Tu intentionally let his gaze linger on her mouth several times, her expression didn''t show any change, as if... she really was asleep at the time.


    ''Is this the epitome of self-deception?''


    Qiu Tu found it a little hard to understand women''s thought processes ¡ª they seemed especially good at deceiving themselves.


    Sometimes, they just need a high-sounding excuse, and it seems they can accept anything.


    So, Qiu Tu kept busy for an afternoon.


    That afternoon, within his authority, he rearranged all of his confidants.


    Since they had all reached at least the level of First Level Detective and could lead a team on their own, Qiu Tu left behind Ding Xiaoliu and about ten other confidants in the Action Division, indirectly controlling over a hundred Special Service Detectives. As for the other dozen or so confidants, they were dispersed into various sections of the Political Department.


    Among them, Li Xian and Zhu Huoyan were transferred by Qiu Tu to the "Intelligence Section"; Guard Room Detective Wang Dawei, who had defected to Qiu Tu, was promoted on the spot by Qiu Tu into the Interrogation Section; Chen Feng and Eagle were transferred by Qiu Tu to the "Inspection Department",


    As for Cao Dabiao, he was sent to the Administrative Office according to the plan Qiu Tu had for him originally. Going along with him were the young girl Song Qing and Ding Xiaoqi.


    Plus, Li Ke, the Administrative Office Detective who had always wanted to side with Qiu Tu (from Chapter 15), was enough for Cao Dabiao to carve out a niche for himself in the Administrative Office.


    Adding to that, the Monkey, Ah-Shui, Da Tou, and over a dozen other brothers who were promoted by Qiu Tu from "temporary detectives" to "Third-Level Detectives,"


    Qiu Tu''s sphere of influence stretched from the Political Department to the Administrative Office, Public Security Bureau, and several other departments.


    ```


    With the addition of the confidants of The Five Elders, he was now so influential that a mere sneeze from him would shake the Investigation Bureau to its core.


    However, although Qiu Tu''s maneuvers were significant, they paled in comparison to Tang Feifei''s bold and resolute actions.


    While Qiu Tu was busy installing his confidants, Tang Feifei was also furiously promoting her own loyalists.


    This allowed her power to swell even faster.


    Moreover, following Qiu Tu''s advice, she immediately transferred all the squads under her loyalists'' control to the Training Department under the pretext of training after placing them in the Special Service Department.


    Because of her drastic actions, the Special Service Department was at one point left with barely any usable squads, which infuriated Lin Ting to the point of almost confronting Tang Feifei directly.


    However... whether it was Tang Feifei''s strength, background, or the leverage of "The Death of Wu Zhi", it all made Lin Ting feel somewhat powerless to act against her.


    So, after stewing in frustration all afternoon, he ended up doing nothing and simply let his driver take him to Emerald Fort to indulge and unwind...


    Soon, a day had passed.


    That evening, Qiu Tu didn''t go back to his home with Fang Tangtang but returned to his own home instead...


    In the days following the United Front assassination attempt, Qiu Tu hadn''t returned home at all, leaving only a female detective in the villa to accompany Shen Lingshuang.


    Now that Qiu Tu had finished his business, of course, he should go back to check on things.


    Upon returning to his villa, Qiu Tu was greeted by Xiao Bai, whose head had grown as large as a wardrobe.


    After finally dismissing Xiao Bai, Shen Lingshuang came pouting with discontent clearly written on her face.


    She was obviously dissatisfied with Qiu Tu''s absence from home for several days.


    Qiu Tu had no other merit but thick skin. So after giving a "hehe" and a quick apology, he got past it.


    Shen Lingshuang was actually still upset at the time and didn''t want to forgive Qiu Tu. But... who could blame him for knowing her submissive nature too well.


    So after pulling her onto his lap and giving her a round of sand palm treatment, Shen Lingshuang blushed and with eyes aglitter, let Qiu Tu off the hook...


    The night passed without further words.


    The next day, the day when Yan Chen utterly lost any hope of becoming the Deputy Speaker at Moonlight Lake, had arrived.


    Qiu Tu got up early.


    After washing up, having breakfast, and chatting with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu called his driver and headed for the Investigation Bureau.


    On his way to the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu rolled down the car window and gazed deeply at the giant tree phantom that spanned the sky above.


    Dots of green starlight adorned it, forming a majestic and magnificent vast tree.


    ''Fourth-order Cataclysmics... I wonder when I will reach that level.''


    ''Moreover... with Moonlight Lake taking shape, Xinjie City is probably about to be hit by a huge storm, right?''


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu contemplated this, in Eastern City, a secret base.


    Liu Xiongyuan, dressed in the Bureau Chief''s uniform, paced back and forth in front of several individuals wearing white lab coats.


    The group in white coats looked somewhat like chemists from before the Era of Disaster.


    But judging from the various instruments and tools they were fiddling with, they seemed more akin to pharmacists like Shen Lingshuang.


    At this moment, they were gathered around a medium-sized device, engaged in intense discussion.


    "To fully form Moonlight Lake, we must use the ''Storm Skull'' to concentrate the Power of Laws brought by Yan Chen into Moonlight Lake!"


    "As for other methods, I think they are all somewhat lacking."


    "I think we could use a potion. Pouring a ''Gathering Spirit'' type of potion into the core of Moonlight Lake would naturally attract all the Laws and Cataclysmic Powers within its range."


    "By then, Moonlight Lake, having absorbed such immense power, would take shape earlier."


    "I don''t think that will work..."


    They discussed their diverse opinions for several hours like this.


    Eventually, just as Liu Xiongyuan''s patience was nearly worn thin, a detailed action plan was handed to him.


    With the plan in hand, Liu Xiongyuan finally relaxed.


    He carefully reviewed the entire plan and, after ensuring everything was within his capabilities, he thanked the individuals in white coats and then hurriedly left the secret base to commence accelerating the congealment of Moonlight Lake!


    ------

 Chapter 366 - 273: The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ....


    Meanwhile, as Liu Xiongyuan initiated his actions and began to catalyze Moonlight Lake,


    Qiu Tu also arrived at the Investigation Bureau.


    The current Qiu Tu and the one who first came to the Investigation Bureau were in completely different states.


    His neat black investigator''s uniform now bore the insignia of three bars and one flower on his shoulders; division heads and agents along the way all stood to salute him.


    Wherever he went, Qiu Tu began to enjoy the attention and deference befitting a high-ranking official of the Investigation Bureau.


    Secretary Tan Huimin was obviously more diligent today. She waited early in the parking lot, and as soon as Qiu Tu''s car stopped, she promptly came forward to open the door for him.


    After picking up Qiu Tu, she took the initiative to lead the way elegantly, all the while briefing Qiu Tu on the day''s schedule and arrangements.


    She epitomized the level of excellence expected of a secretary.


    Only, perhaps because her attire was too glamorous today¡ªnot only had she dressed up, but she also wore a light makeup and applied bright red lipstick¡ª


    every time his gaze fell upon her seductive lips, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the scene where she swallowed his "provision" from the day before.


    ''I''m still influenced by this woman¡­''


    While contemplating that beauty was like a double-edged sword, Qiu Tu joined Secretary Tan in the elevator and went upstairs.


    Given Qiu Tu''s current status, no one of equal or lesser rank would take the initiative to ride the elevator with him. Therefore, the spacious elevator contained only Qiu Tu and Secretary Tan. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Perhaps perceiving Qiu Tu''s unusual gaze, Secretary Tan took the initiative to ask, "Chief, why do you keep looking at my mouth?"


    With that, she extended her index finger and gently pressed her delicate lips, inquiring, "Is my lipstick smeared by accident?"


    Qiu Tu:¡­.


    Qiu Tu was 99% certain that this woman was trying to seduce him.


    Well, the remaining 1% was wondering if she was hinting at wanting to have a quick encounter right there in the elevator!


    Yesterday, although Secretary Tan acted convincingly, she was clearly sober. Being so, she must be aware of what happened between them.


    If she was behaving like this now, she was no doubt attempting seduction.


    As Qiu Tu was thinking this, Secretary Tan spoke up.


    In a soft voice, she said, "Yesterday afternoon, when I was sleeping, I felt like I had a long dream. I dreamed that Ah-Tao had left Xinjie City."


    "That was the most comfortable sleep I''ve had in recent days."


    "I wonder when that will become a reality."


    "By then, I guess my sleep will be even more comfortable."


    Qiu Tu:¡­.


    Although Secretary Tan spoke vaguely, she was actually reminding Qiu Tu to fulfill his "promise."


    And she continued to tempt Qiu Tu with promises¡ªthe "comfort" she referred to was likely not about how comfortably she slept, but rather how comfortable it would be to sleep with her, right?


    However, for some reason, Qiu Tu, who had been eager a moment earlier, suddenly cooled down.


    Although Secretary Tan was indeed tempting, Qiu Tu had his own principles about certain matters.


    Oh, it wasn''t that those who sided with an Evil God must die, but rather... if they are enemies, they must be eliminated without leaving future troubles!


    Even though Zheng Tao might not have intentionally opposed him and might have many compelling reasons,


    Qiu Tu never spared in contemplating the most venomous perspective of a person.


    ¡ªZheng Tao had offended him. Even if he was prepared to forgive Zheng Tao from the bottom of his heart, would Zheng Tao truly believe it?


    And having delivered his wife right to Qiu Tu''s lips¡ªalthough he hadn''t completely devoured her but had already tasted her¡ªwould Zheng Tao genuinely be indifferent?


    Qiu Tu, if placed in that situation, certainly would not simply put aside such animosity.


    He would certainly bear the grudge, gather his strength, and find satisfaction in eventually killing his enemy.


    Therefore, although Secretary Tan had good intentions, what she didn''t know was that from the moment she tasted Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao''s fate was truly sealed¡­.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu showed nothing on his face.


    He joked, "Director Zheng will certainly be safe. It''s just that Secretary Tan may need to dream a few more times."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s overt flirtation, Secretary Tan''s expression tensed for a moment and her hand involuntarily tightened into a fist, but she soon returned to normal.


    She was intent on probing further, but at that moment¡ª


    With a "ding," they arrived at the ninth floor.


    Qiu Tu stepped out of the elevator, and seeing this, Secretary Tan quickly followed.


    Arriving at the office, Qiu Tu soon immersed himself in a day''s work.


    As the vice-minister of the Political Department, especially one with extensive authority, Qiu Tu had a lot of work that was also highly valuable.


    Especially now that he had officially taken over the intelligence department, the Intelligence Section began delivering daily important intelligence summaries, allowing him to understand comprehensively the events occurring in Xinjie City each day.


    Just like yesterday, perhaps due to changes in Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, The military dispatched a battalion to be stationed around Garden Villa.


    Like the Security Department, which had recently been actively planting agents within the United Front.


    Like City Hall, which had successfully partnered with a wealthy Eastern City businessman yesterday to handle the redevelopment of an abandoned area of the city.


    The overall terms were not particularly generous; the businessman would probably not make much profit through normal operations.


    However, outside of this partnership, Commissioner Jiang from City Hall also gave the nod to allot a plot near Xinjie''s east gate to that wealthy businessman.

 Chapter 367 - 273: The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Aside from local intelligence in Xinjie City, the information about Moonlight Lake that Qiu Tu had been paying special attention to also arrived. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    According to the intelligence reports,


    the place where Moonlight Lake was about to emerge was actually a depression located between Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    It was originally a small Cataclysm Forest.


    But years ago, due to the influence of a clash between two Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea, the ground collapsed in the middle of the forest, trees fell, and a 1.52-square-kilometer depression was formed.


    At first, no one cared about this depression. After all, in this age of Cataclysm, any sort of phenomenon could occur, and the three major power institutions had become accustomed to oddities.


    However, over time, things began to change.


    Just over a year ago, the forest would suddenly be enveloped in thick fog every night.


    The fog was impervious to wind and would not dissipate with rain, yet it receded every time the skies cleared.


    The Political Department and Security Department, having learned about this phenomenon from passersby, started regular observations and investigations.


    Gradually, they discovered strange changes occurring in the corresponding area of the Boundless Heart Sea¡ªa small tornado continued to swirl specifically in this region of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    After reporting to the Sanctuary, experts were specially dispatched to conduct research and analysis. They ultimately concluded that a Moonlight Lake was about to be formed there.


    According to the experts, the battle between the two Evil Gods years ago might have disrupted the Cataclysmic Power in this area.


    The injury of the Evil Gods, shedding a significant amount of "Divine Blood," coincidentally "activated" the Cataclysmic Powers in these areas.


    Thus, with a large amount of "Divine Blood" as the core, and the "activated" Cataclysmic Power as the force, a Cataclysm Storm began to form here.


    The Cataclysm Storm would engulf the surrounding Cataclysmic Power, making the power in this area more and more concentrated.


    It would undergo a qualitative change with the "Divine Blood," eventually producing the Cataclysmic Material¡ªTears of Moonlight.


    The expert who came for the research was clearly very experienced; after inspecting the depression and the aftermath of the battle between the Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea, he also provided his estimate of the yield of the Moonlight Lake: 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight.


    Suffice to create 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion.


    This astounding treasury shocked the military and Investigation Bureau in both Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    Therefore, over the past six months, four departments have been locked in a political chess game over this Moonlight Lake, ultimately reaching a delicate balance.


    The Investigation Bureau of Eastern City and the military of Xinjie City could each claim roughly 30% of the shares of Moonlight Lake; while the Investigation Bureau of Xinjie City and the military of Eastern City would each take 20%.


    Because of the ongoing power struggle, Yan Chen had deployed almost all the elite detectives trained by the Special Service Department over the past year.


    This is also an important reason for the current weakened strength of the Special Service Department.


    Now, due to Yan Chen''s sudden promotion, the military of Xinjie City had no choice but to start mobilizing personnel to protect Yan Chen.


    This led to a substantial weakening of Xinjie City''s military presence in the Moonlight Lake area. Hence, Eastern City has now completely overwhelmed Xinjie City.


    It''s said that although General Ye has not openly cursed Yan Chen in the past two days, his complexion has been constantly sour.


    After reading through all the reports on Moonlight Lake, Qiu Tu had a general understanding of the current intelligence on Moonlight Lake.


    He remembered discussing this with Tang Feifei.


    All the power departments actually had missions and requirements to collect Cataclysmic Materials in the Planning Area.


    Each year, depending on the amount of Cataclysmic Material submitted, the Sanctuary would allocate different ratings.


    Promotions above the Deputy Director level had a lot to do with this rating, even surpassing the evaluation of daily duties.


    This is one of the main reasons why various forces were tempted by such a large Moonlight Lake when it was discovered.


    After reviewing all the data, Qiu Tu had a comprehensive understanding of the Moonlight Lake.


    He picked up the tea brewed by Tan Huimin, took a gentle sip, and then walked to the window.


    It might have been a coincidence, but the window of Qiu Tu''s office faced directly towards the location of the depression.


    Qiu Tu stood by the window, quietly looking out for a while. In the end, he still took out his communicator and made two phone calls¡­


    The festivity surrounding Moonlight Lake had been targeted by various powers as early as six months ago, and it was already completely divided by several heavyweights. Thus, it was certain that he''d be unable to intervene and snatch any benefits now.


    But this didn''t mean that he couldn''t reap something indirectly¡­


    Especially when the United Front was very likely to cause trouble.


    ¡­


    Day turned to night quickly.


    Nighttime. The region between Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    The outskirts of the forest, recently renamed from "Nameless Forest" to "Moonlight Forest" over the past six months, where makeshift barracks had been constructed.


    On a deep autumn night, leaves withered and fell. Under the azure moonlight, one could clearly see squads of fully armed soldiers and Special Service Detectives patrolling through the woods.


    They were obviously the elite of various cities, not only robust in physique but also exceptional in demeanor.


    Armed with rifles, their boots crunched on fallen leaves with a "crackling" sound.


    This was another peaceful night over half a year.


    Hence, the patrolling soldiers and detectives weren''t particularly vigilant.


    After all, it had been like this every night for the past six months; they were long accustomed to it...


    But on this ordinary yet extraordinary night, everything seemed to have changed.


    Initially, it was just a faint fog spreading as usual.

 Chapter 368 - 273: The Birth of Moonlight Lake! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The fog seemed to emerge from beneath the ground, spreading silently throughout the entire forest.


    Then the fog grew thicker and damper.


    The soldiers and detectives, already accustomed to this change, withdrew from the forest in line with their usual experience, standing outside the forest and observing in silence.


    Based on previous experiences, they estimated that the fog would reach its peak density around 12 o''clock, and then it would start to wane.


    By around 5 in the morning, it would have completely dissipated.


    Having been through this process for half a year, they didn''t pay much attention to it.


    Like in the southern part of the forest controlled by Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, a few detectives from the Special Service Department were even smoking and chatting casually.


    "Old Zhang, how long has it been since you were home?"


    "Sigh, almost a month. My shift''s about to end. When I get back, I can have a good rest."


    "That''s nice. I just came here last week for my shift, probably have another three weeks to go."


    Hearing his companion''s words, Old Zhang asked, "Huh? You just got here last week? Anything interesting happen recently?"


    Hearing Old Zhang''s question, the detective chuckled and said, "Anything interesting? Let me tell you, you''ve missed out this past month on duty. The Investigation Bureau has been bustling like we''re in a blockbuster movie, with one act after another. It was especially thrilling."


    Curious upon hearing this, Old Zhang went, "Oh?" and then as if thinking of something, he asked, "It wouldn''t be something Deputy Chief Qiu cooked up, would it?"


    "He''s really something. He shot up the ranks in just half a month, shocking us all."


    At these words, his companion smiled mysteriously, "Deputy Chief Qiu? Hehe¡­ He''s no longer a deputy chief now."


    And while they were talking...


    Suddenly... two brilliant stars lit up the pitch-black sky.


    One star was extremely bright, rivaling the Polaris from Qiu Tu''s previous life, while the other, though fainter, was crystal clear.


    Since the two stars appeared out of nowhere, Old Zhang and his companion were suddenly distracted from their conversation.


    They couldn''t help but look up to see what was happening.


    At that moment, a dazzling silver pillar of light suddenly appeared between the two stars!


    The next second, the pillar of light plummeted from the heavens, crashing directly into the center of Moonlight Forest!


    In that instant, the valley floor trembled slightly, and an invisible energy surged through the air, bringing with it gusts of wind. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The silver fog was blasted into the air, then gathered above the forest, condensed, and rose until it formed a silver giant dragon spiraling in the sky.


    Seeing this, both Old Zhang and his companion were shocked!


    Their mouths slowly opened in awe, and their cigarettes fell to the ground unnoticed, clearly unaware of what had happened!


    But the transformation did not stop because of their astonishment!


    The silver-white foggy giant dragon circled in the sky for a few seconds, roared towards the heavens, and then suddenly plummeted straight into the central depression of Moonlight Forest!


    The very next second, waves of silver-white light emanated from the bottom of the lake.


    The light seemed to possess a magical power, appearing out of nowhere, growing from nothing to something, and spreading rapidly.


    Soon, the light filled the entire depression!


    The next second, the light solidified!


    Accompanied by the "whooshing" sound of rushing water, a lake as smooth and clear as a mirror, filled with silver-white water, was born out of thin air!


    A breeze swept across, creating ripples on the lake surface, with silver ripples shimmering in the moonlight, like countless stars jumping in the water!


    Drawing the attention of various forces from Xinjie City, Eastern City, the United Front, and Sanctuaries alike, and containing 1.3 tons of Tears of Moonlight, capable of producing 65,000 bottles of Cataclysmic Potion, Moonlight Lake¡­. was officially born!


    -------

 Chapter 369 - 274: Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)

    At this moment, Old Zhang and his companions were scared stiff!


    Even though they had already known from their superior when they received the mission that they were guarding and patrolling a supernatural lake, a supernatural forest.


    But what one hears and what one sees for oneself are somewhat different.


    Seeing the brilliant, silver-white starlight falling from the sky, exploding over the entire forest; seeing the pervasive mist turn into a white dragon coiling up into the sky!


    Hearing the sudden sound of "gurgle gurgle" of water in the dried-up hollow at the center of the forest, feeling the sudden abundant presence of life, how could they not know that the supernatural lake spoken of by their superior had been born!


    Thus, they widened their eyes, stared dumbfounded for a few seconds, then turned and ran towards the back to report the situation!


    Soon, the quiet campsite was filled with the "rustle rustle" of whispered talking and the sounds of dressing.


    Before long, more and more shouting and rallying calls resounded over the campsite of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Squads of Special Service Detectives promptly arrived at the ready, led by a First Level Detective captain.


    However, while the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was quick, the other three factions were not slow. Or perhaps... even faster.


    Especially the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, which had already received Liu Xiongyuan''s signal. They had made their preparations early in the evening.


    Therefore, from the moment the starlight landed, they headed straight for the Moonlight Forest. This also made them one of the factions to arrive at Moonlight Lake...


    "Quick, quick, quick!"


    "This way! This way!"


    Accompanied by quiet commands in the dark forest, soon, the squad from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau arrived at Moonlight Lake!


    By this time, the newly formed Moonlight Lake lay quietly flat in the depression at the center of the Moonlight Forest.


    The lake water flowed quietly, like a silvery mirror, reflecting the Blue Moon in the night sky, creating a stark contrast with the pitch-black Moonlight Forest under the night''s veil.


    "Is this Moonlight Lake? It''s magical..."


    The commanding tall squad leader from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau gazed at the sacred lake before him, his face filled with joy and astonishment.


    He gestured with his hands for his subordinates to stay calm, and then he himself began walking slowly towards Moonlight Lake.


    It could have been an illusion, but Moonlight Lake seemed to be "blooming" at that moment! Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Every ripple on its calm surface brought up a whiff of mist, and this mist seemed imbued with a powerful life force; as soon as it floated to the vicinity of Moonlight Lake, it instantly made the plants it touched burst into unprecedented vitality.


    Seeing this, the lead tall squad leader purposefully walked through a strand of mist, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath!


    A faint fragrance lingered in his nostrils; he felt as though ancient trees were bursting into new greenery, and his whole body was extremely invigorated!


    ''Amazing!'' he exclaimed inwardly, but knowing the urgency of the night and the weight of the mission, he waved his hand to the back and commanded in a low voice, "Quick, quick! Set up the equipment now!"


    Hearing the squad leader''s words, the detectives, light on their feet and adept in their movements, ran over with the equipment and began to set it up.


    Their equipment resembled water pumps, but had undergone some special modifications.


    Such as adding a filtration device; connecting the water outlet to several large drums for easy transportation; and... the machine also had an external diesel generator, among other things.


    These dozen or so detectives had clearly rehearsed many times before, so it took them only a minute to assemble the machine.


    Then, under the command of the towering squad leader, two detectives threw the water pumping tube into Moonlight Lake!


    Meanwhile, several other detectives started pouring diesel into the generator and then started the machine.


    "Chug chug chug chug!" Along with the roar of the water pump, the pump began to operate furiously!


    Moonlight Lake contained not only Tears of Moonlight, but also a lot of pure water condensed from the air. The filtration system was meant to filter out the pure water, then extract the Tears of Moonlight!


    Soon... "drip... drip... splash... splash..."


    The plastic barrels started filling up with more and more filtered Tears of Moonlight.


    The Tears of Moonlight were just like the small bottle Qiu Tu had once obtained; they were silvery and luminous like mercury, shimmering as if moonlight were flowing through them.


    Seeing this scene, the tall squad leader finally let out a sigh of relief¡ªhis vanguard unit had at least successfully completed their mission.


    This placed the Eastern City Investigation Bureau at the forefront among the four major forces.


    They had secured a considerable amount of time to extract the Cataclysmic Material!


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the west side of Moonlight Forest was filled with the clamor of footsteps.


    The tall squad leader was taken aback for a moment, somewhat in disbelief as he looked towards that direction.


    What he saw was that several squads from the Xinjie City Military Department had also arrived at the lake''s edge with equipment.


    And it was clear they were also well-prepared in advance; as soon as they reached the lake, they immediately began to assemble their equipment and started extracting the Tears of Moonlight.


    Altogether, they were only about 3 minutes slower than the Eastern City Investigation Bureau.


    ''How is this possible!'' the tall squad leader thought incredulously.


    After all, during this period, the four major forces had a thorough understanding of each other.


    Although they performed patrols at night, because the formation of Moonlight Lake was still a while off, most were just going through the motions.


    The night patrols usually comprised no more than 5-10 people. The rest of the detectives and soldiers were normally sleeping and resting.


    As for the equipment, some had not brought it along, while others were stored in the camp''s secret storerooms, making retrieval quite troublesome.

 Chapter 370 - 274: Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Therefore, if the Xinjie City Military Department was only three minutes slower than them, it means they must have received the news early and made preparations.


    ''Did the Bureau Chief strike a deal with them? Or... is there a mole?!''


    Thinking this, the tall section chief''s gaze turned sharp.


    He squinted his eyes, looking towards the Xinjie City Military Department''s vanguard squad with a bit of danger, feeling an impulse to do something...


    Just at that moment, the sound of rustling footsteps erupted from both the east and west sides of the dark forest.


    Soon, from behind the tall section chief and from behind the Xinjie City Military Department''s squad, figures from large units appeared.


    The reinforcements had arrived.


    Quickly, key positions along the shore and in the surrounding forest were occupied by the two forces.


    Because the numbers and equipment of both sides were not significantly different, they were very restrained and only began to be wary of each other.


    Seeing this, the tall section chief no longer allowed his thoughts to wander but instead focused on commanding his men to extract Tears of Moonlight.


    But... the matter of why the Xinjie City Military Department arrived so quickly still gnawed at his mind like a parasite...


    ''Who could have done it...?''


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Xinjie City, 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau, Tang Feifei''s office.


    Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, wearing uniforms and holding red wine, stood by the window, gazing in the direction of Moonlight Forest and chatting leisurely.


    Qiu Tu took a sip of red wine and said softly, "I told the military about Moonlight Lake''s early condensation. Aren''t you angry?"


    Having held power for just a few days, Tang Feifei''s aura had become even more refined and profound.


    Her eyes flickered with a yellow glow as she stared distantly and said calmly, "There''s nothing to be angry about."


    She explained understandingly, "This time, our goal is very clear, which is to make Yan Chen lose face with the higher-ups."


    "If both the Xinjie City Military Department and the Investigation Bureau gain no benefits from the emergence of Moonlight Lake..."


    "Then the authorities will think that Xinjie is inferior to Eastern City."


    "Since Eastern City was established five or six years earlier and has capable figures like Liu Xiongyuan anchoring it, outshining Xinjie is somewhat justifiable."


    "Yan Chen''s loss won''t be too great."


    "However, now that the military has joined in on this grand event and gained huge benefits, what will be highlighted is Yan Chen''s incompetence and shortsightedness."


    "In this way, he can forget about being the Deputy Speaker; in fact, once he comes out, he''ll probably be directly criticized and dealt with by the authorities."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s analysis, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded in agreement, then endorsed, "Exactly. The reason I told the military about this was, in fact, for the sake of contrast."


    "Only by comparing with the successful can we see Yan Chen''s failures."


    "And..." Pausing, Qiu Tu continued, "after all, we are people of Xinjie."


    "Whether it''s for battle or something else, we still need to strive for benefits for Xinjie when we can."


    "Moonlight Lake''s massive benefits, no matter which faction of Xinjie City obtains them, will actually bring considerable aid and influence to Xinjie City."


    "At least... it can give birth to a few more Cataclysmics."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei slightly nodded, indicating her agreement.


    Qiu Tu, looking at Tang Feifei''s serene profile, turned his gaze toward the distance.


    In fact... there was one more crucial point he hadn''t mentioned.


    He revealed the information about Moonlight Lake to the military not just because of the two reasons just discussed.


    Don''t forget that he is not only the Deputy Director of the Political Department at the Investigation Bureau but also a legitimate Captain in the military.


    Although he too was somewhat unclear as to which side he truly belonged to, it didn''t matter... as long as he had a position¡ªthis also served as a safety net for him.


    After all, climbing up the ranks step by step, he might indeed face something in the future that he couldn''t handle, and then he could simply switch allegiance.


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was contemplating, Tang Feifei gazed at the distant scenery and then said softly, "Actually, the most important reason I''m not angry is that, after you called the military, you immediately phoned me."


    Tang Feifei said with a chill, "This shows that you don''t regard me merely as a boss or a regular partner."


    Qiu Tu replied with a smile, "Of course, I wouldn''t just see you as a boss or a regular partner."


    "We are comrades-at-arms." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And... you are also my Martial Techniques instructor."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ambiguous statement, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed, suggesting something, "Indeed. We are comrades-at-arms..."


    After speaking, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu like a leopardess eying her prey, the yellow glow in her eyes twinkling.


    Her cheeks were flushed from the wine, and coupled with her untamed aura, she seemed ready to engage in a lengthy battle with Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu hastily coughed and reminded, "Bureau Chief. I don''t mind, but... tonight''s operation still needs your remote command."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s eyes regained their clarity. She took another sip of wine and looked into the distance again.


    Afterward, she asked softly, "Are you sure something will definitely happen tonight?"


    Qiu Tu replied softly, "90% sure."


    Tang Feifei, puzzled, asked, "Why are you so certain?"


    Qiu Tu laughed, "Intelligence and analysis."


    "All of the enemy''s habits and methods are hidden in the intelligence they inadvertently reveal."


    "As long as we gather enough intelligence, make enough analysis, and thoroughly understand the enemy, we can predict the enemy''s every move."

 Chapter 371 - 274: Qiu Tus Stratagems Within the Tent! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Qiu Tu commented, "Compared to the Sanctuary Force, anti-government armed forces like the United Front obviously need Cataclysmic Material and Cataclysmic Awakening Potion even more."


    "That''s why they''ve always had a huge interest in Moonlight Lake."


    "In order to take over Moonlight Lake, they''ve assembled the forces of three divisions in the Disaster Zone recently, moving rapidly towards Moonlight Lake."


    "The reason Liu Xiongyuan has been so quick to harness Moonlight Lake is partly due to the pressure from them."


    "As long as Moonlight Lake forms quickly and gets depleted swiftly, the United Front will lose its target and naturally retreat."


    "But, if we know this, the United Front surely knows it too."


    "So, they will stop at nothing to interrupt the process of us extracting Tears of Moonlight."


    Tang Feifei nodded thoughtfully and then said, "I understand what you''re saying, but how can you guess the methods they''ll use?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile, and then he said lightly, "Because... if I were them, I would certainly do the same."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a deep look, then raised her eyes towards the direction of Moonlight Forest.


    After a pause, she slowly said, "Since you''re such a master strategist, I''ll make you a promise as well."


    "If I really do make a great achievement this time, once I become the Bureau Chief, I will definitely..."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei paused, then continued, "Make you the Bureau Chief''s lover."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei with a face full of question marks.


    Then he saw the corners of Tang Feifei''s mouth curl up into a smile, clearly, she was joking, trying to tease Qiu Tu.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling sentimental: the former Tang Feifei never joked, and now she had started teasing him. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His "essence" really did have the power to change people!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu smugly took a sip of his drink, planning to find time to give Tang Feifei more of his essence and change her aloof temperament.


    ...


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were exchanging playful barbs.


    The situation in Moonlight Forest was also changing continuously.


    After a half-hour delay, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the Eastern City Military Department finally arrived at Moonlight Lake, albeit belatedly.


    However, they were faced with two major forces that had already taken over the entire lake.


    They were eager to negotiate, but the two forces were adamant: they would only clear the path if they received orders from either Director Liu or General Ye.


    So they were asked to have the highest official in their organizations contact Director Liu or General Ye.


    Such a request wasn''t excessive. In the face of significant issues, the various departments often handled things this way.


    But... it was now deep into the night and with Moonlight Lake having just formed, time equaled life; every minute delayed meant countless Tears of Moonlight were extracted by the two forces.


    Therefore, both the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the Eastern City Military Department were as anxious as ants on a hot pan.


    Unwilling as they were, they had no choice but to urgently contact their department''s highest officials.


    The Eastern City Military Department still had a chance, with their highest official present, but the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was in trouble: Yan Chen was in the middle of a promotion, and they simply couldn''t reach him.


    So, they could only call Lin Ting, the Special Duties Department Director, hoping he could coordinate things.


    But Lin Ting was two ranks below Liu Xiongyuan, far inferior both in seniority and position, and had no say in the matter.


    He was keen to try contacting Tang Feifei, but the logic was the same: a big shot like Liu Xiongyuan might give some face to peers, but even if Tang Feifei approached Liu Xiongyuan, it would be of little use.


    And just as everything was at a stalemate, unknown to the four major forces, a group of people in black was silently approaching the Moonlight Forest¡­


    -------


    Still two chapters in 10,000 words, ha! A new month, asking for your Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 372 - 275: Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    This squad had over thirty members. They wore black balaclava hats on their heads, complete black combat uniforms, and their faces were smeared with camouflage paint.


    Upon closer inspection, one would find a small red "X" marked on their right chest. This proved their identity¡ªthey were the elite of the United Front.


    And so, under the cover of night, this elite squad moved lightly, skillfully shuttling through the wilderness, towards Moonlight Forest.


    They seemed to become one with the wild grass and trees all around, further aided by the chaos following the premature emergence of Moonlight Lake and the disarray among the four major organizations, so much so that they reached a small hill near Moonlight Forest without being detected by anyone.


    Once they reached the high point of the hill, the leader signaled for concealment to the members behind him.


    He himself then lay on the ground and pulled out night vision binoculars to observe Moonlight Forest.


    At this moment, Moonlight Forest was bustling with activity. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Investigation Bureau of Eastern City and Xinjie City Military Department, thanks to their early advantage, firmly occupied the largest area of Moonlight Lake, setting up several water pumps to extract "Tears of Moonlight" from the lake.


    It seemed that the Eastern City Military Department had come to an agreement with Liu Xiongyuan, hence also occupying a small area and beginning to set up their equipment.


    Among the four powers, only the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau had not yet made a move.


    Director Lin Ting of the Special Service Department, who had already rushed over, was negotiating loudly with the other three parties.


    The detectives of the Special Service Department were already lined up, guns at the ready, making threatening gestures.


    But possibly one of the agreements reached between Liu Xiongyuan and the Eastern City Military Department was to withstand the pressure from the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    So without the need for the Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Xinjie City Military Department to act, the Eastern City Military Department had already deployed several middle squads to block the Special Service Detectives from Xinjie City.


    Both sides faced each other with guns, neither daring to fire easily, merely showing their stance to the other.


    And it was precisely because of this standoff between the four parties that the reinforcements guarding and isolating on the outside of Moonlight Forest were being continuously pulled in, which in turn made the defenses outside of Moonlight Forest increasingly lax.


    This provided an opportune moment for the elite squad of the United Front.


    After assessing the situation on the field, the United Front leader murmured, "The defenses on the south and north are both loose. We can sneak in quietly."


    With that, he raised his hand, licked his finger, and held it up to the air to feel the wind.


    "The wind is from the south tonight."


    "We enter from the south."


    After speaking, he turned to look at the United Front members behind him and said, "Are the materials and equipment ready?"


    "We only have one chance."


    Hearing their leader''s words, all the elites on the scene nodded their heads in unison and silently.


    They had a determined gaze, as though they were preparing for an important mission.


    "Move out!" After whispering the command, the leader rose from the ground, crouching low, and led the team of elites towards the south.


    The southern guard was manned by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, whose forces had been greatly drawn away because of the standoff at Moonlight Lake, leaving it particularly vulnerable at this time.


    Moreover, the situation had arisen so suddenly that no preemptive plans had been made, so the United Front squad effortlessly entered Moonlight Forest after quietly neutralizing a few sentries.


    Stepping on the thick layer of fallen leaves in Moonlight Forest, the leader quietly arranged for his men, "We''ll spread out and set up, trying not to attract official attention."


    "Afterward, follow my command to act together."


    "Yes! Yes! Major!" the other elites responded in unison after hearing their leader''s arrangement.


    Their mission tonight did not seem to be a frontal struggle for Moonlight Lake, nor to steal the "Tears of Moonlight" bottled by the four powers.


    Instead, they had other plans.


    They scattered throughout Moonlight Forest, then poured out thick black liquid from containers in their backpacks onto the fallen leaves.


    After emptying one container, they moved to another spot to continue.


    Soon, the southern area was covered with the thick black liquid.


    The black liquid carried a strong odor that, when blown by the wind from the south, went unnoticed by those on guard outside by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, but the four powers standing off at Moonlight Lake seemed to vaguely catch the scent.


    Director Lin Ting, who was in the midst of angrily rebuking the other three parties for not keeping their promises, was the first to sense something was wrong.


    "What is this smell?"


    Smelling the pungent scent, Lin Ting''s brows furrowed deeply, and he turned his head to look in the direction they had come from.


    At this time, the other powers also seemed to have caught onto the scent.


    "What''s this stench so unpleasant?"


    "What is this smell? Why does it stink?"


    As more and more people began to notice the odor,


    the driver who had been following Lin Ting seemed to suddenly realize something. He looked up abruptly, his face stricken with terror, and said in a low voice, "Chief! It''s gasoline! Gasoline!"


    Hearing the driver''s warning, Lin Ting''s realization struck hard!


    Gasoline! Why would there be gasoline in Moonlight Forest?!


    Thinking this, he abruptly looked up as if struck by a thought, then cast his eyes on the dry trees and down at the thick layer of fallen leaves beneath his feet.


    It was late fall now.


    The leaves had fallen completely and were baked dry by the hot autumn sun, devoid of any moisture!


    What would happen in a forest full of fallen leaves and deadwood if they caught fire from gasoline?


    In that moment, Lin Ting''s face turned ashen!


    A premonition of doom crept into his heart!


    And just then, suddenly, a red signal flare exploded above the dark southern edge of Moonlight Forest!

 Chapter 373 - 275: Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The signal flare was like flipping a switch! The next second, clusters of flames burst forth in the dark jungle.


    Fueled by gasoline and at the upwind location, the fire took advantage of the wind. In just a few short seconds, the flames connected into a sheet, scorching leaves and dead trees, spreading rapidly toward Moonlight Forest like a fire dragon!


    In the Planning Area, there were few cars, so most of the soldiers and agents had never come into contact with gasoline. That''s why they hadn''t recognized the black liquid at first.


    But... fire is an instinctual fear etched into the DNA of all living creatures!


    So, when they saw the fire dragon, seemingly alive, rising and leaping among the dead wood and leaves, rapidly spreading through Moonlight Forest with a devouring ferocity, they became afraid!


    "Forest fire! It''s a forest fire! Run! Run!"


    The soldiers and agents who had experienced the terror of a forest fire immediately panicked.


    While the forces from Eastern City Investigation Bureau and Xinjie City Military Department could somewhat contain their subordinates'' panic, those from Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and Eastern City Military Department were not as easily controlled!


    Seeing the spreading fire, the well-behaved soldiers and agents were shivering with fear, while those who were not as disciplined had already started running to either side, trying to escape Moonlight Forest!


    At this moment, Lin Ting looked at the spreading fire with a face ashen with rage. He cursed, "Damn it! United Front! It must be the United Front!"


    "Those rats must have seen that they couldn''t get to Moonlight Lake, so they decided to just destroy it!"


    Although his training wasn''t the best, he still was a senior official of the Investigation Bureau, with a few tricks up his sleeve.


    So, even in this crisis, he didn''t panic. Instead, he drew his gun and roared at the agents around him, "Chop down trees for me!"


    "Chop down trees! Clear a safe zone!"


    "As long as there are no dead trees or leaves, the fire won''t be able to spread over!"


    His command was correct, but the problem was... All four forces had come to extract Tears of Moonlight, who would carry an axe to chop trees!


    So, his assistant looked at him with eyes almost in tears and said, "Chief! We don''t have the tools! No tools!"


    Hearing the assistant''s words, Lin Ting also realized this point.


    His face still ashen, he watched the spreading flames, anxiously thinking of other strategies.


    Meanwhile, the leaders of the other three factions were also quickly discussing whether to retreat or to stay. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Both retreating and staying had their pros and cons.


    Retreating would mean there would likely be no casualties due to the ample time. However, the downside was also clear: Tears of Moonlight are Cataclysmic Materials that cannot withstand burning or smoke.


    If they were to retreat, many of the Tears of Moonlight could be destroyed.


    Staying, on the other hand, may save the Tears of Moonlight, but the risk of casualties would be completely uncontrollable.


    Furthermore, it was very possible that the forest fire would become too large, leading to heavy casualties, and in the end, the Tears of Moonlight might still not be preserved.


    With these thoughts in mind, having consulted with each other, the leaders quickly leaned toward a decision: to retreat!


    After all, retreating was the safest option, and besides... it was the southern region, under the jurisdiction of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, that the United Front had infiltrated.


    If they had to go to trial at the Sanctuary, it would be Xinjie City Investigation Bureau taking the blame; they saw no need to risk themselves for the sake of claiming credit.


    With that in mind, the leaders of the three forces made eye contact and started instructing their agents to throw all the collected "Tears of Moonlight," Cataclysmic Material and containers alike, into Moonlight Lake.


    Although the "Tears of Moonlight" in the lake might be scorched and contaminated by flames, the water in the lake could effectively protect this packaged "Tears of Moonlight"!


    After the forest fire was extinguished, they could come back and retrieve the "Tears of Moonlight."


    And just as the leaders of the other three major forces were making their critical decision...


    Suddenly.....


    "Ring ring ring!"


    The clear sound of ringing echoed by the shores of Moonlight Lake.


    It was the sound of a communicator.


    Everyone''s gaze couldn''t help but drift over.


    Then they saw a man over two meters tall, like an iron tower, who was, astonishingly, holding a communicator and taking a call at this crucial moment.


    Lin Ting had clearly heard the ringing too. He turned his head and glared fiercely at the man, then rebuked, "What''s the time for? Still making calls!"


    No sooner had he finished speaking did he feel something was off.


    Because... this place was between Eastern City and Xinjie, where communication signals didn''t reach. How could a regular call come in!?


    Unless it was... a specially made communicator and a special direct line!


    With this thought, he couldn''t help but look toward the towering man.


    At this point, his assistant hurried forward and whispered, "Chief, that agent''s name is Ah-Tai. It seems he''s a confidant of Deputy Director Qiu Tu."


    Hearing the assistant''s words, Lin Ting''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    Qiu Tu?


    Since when did he have the authority to use specially made communicators and special direct lines?


    ''There must be more to this!''


    As he was thinking this, Ah-Tai, under everyone''s watchful eyes, pressed the answer button.


    Just as Lin Ting had anticipated, as soon as the communicator was connected, it wasn''t Qiu Tu''s voice that emerged, but that of Deputy Director Tang Feifei!


    Ah-Tai clearly had rehearsed many times before, so as soon he connected the call, he immediately pressed the loudspeaker button.


    The next second, Tang Feifei''s stern, deep voice resonated across the shores of Moonlight Lake.

 Chapter 374 - 275: Stemming the Tide! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She shouted sternly, "Lin Ting! What kind of defense have you set up?"


    "To let United Front''s people slip in so easily!"


    "If Minister Qiu and I hadn''t come for an unexpected inspection tonight, they would have burned you all to death and then slipped away royally!"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s criticism, Lin Ting''s face turned red and then white.


    But it was indeed his fault for the defense breach, so he could only accept it. He said, "Sorry, Director Tang, it''s my fault..."


    Before he could finish the word "responsibility," Tang Feifei cut him off sharply, saying, "Now is not the time to discuss who''s at fault!"


    "We four departments have been waiting for so long, just to harvest the Tears of Moonlight from that lake!"


    "No matter how big the fire, the ''Tears of Moonlight'' cannot be lost!"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, before Lin Ting could speak, a low murmur from an investigator could be heard, "The ''Tears of Moonlight'' cannot be lost... so we can be ''lost''?"


    "The wildfire is about to reach us, and we don''t have any tools. What can we do?"


    "Sit here and wait for death?"


    An investigator next to him whispered in agreement, "Yeah... She talks as if it''s easy. Why doesn''t she come over?"


    The muttering of those investigators was very soft, and Tang Feifei didn''t hear it.


    However, Tang Feifei''s next answer resolved the doubts of everyone present.


    She shouted loudly, "Ah-Tai! Give the ''Seal of Ownership'' to Minister Lin Ting!"


    "Let him summon me over!"


    "I have a way to stop this blaze!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s order, Ah-Tai hurriedly responded and pulled out a seal-shaped Cataclysmic treasure from his pocket, handing it to Lin Ting.


    Lin Ting skeptically accepted the seal, feeling something was amiss...


    Why did Tang Feifei seem to have a grasp on everything happening tonight?


    Why had she arranged for a specialized communicator and Cataclysmic treasures in advance?


    Despite his doubts, it was an emergency situation: the wildfire was growing stronger, and the fire was getting bigger! Thick smoke was already beginning to swirl and spread toward Moonlight Lake!


    So, he could only take the seal and then, following the method Tang Feifei had taught him, used it!


    As he did so, he felt his spiritual power being drained away like a tide!


    The terrifying sensation of being drained made him feel as though he was being sucked dry by a pump!


    Even worse, as his spiritual power depleted, he felt his physical strength and vitality also fading away rapidly!


    He wanted to abandon the summoning, but the seal had been activated and couldn''t be stopped!


    So, he collapsed to the ground, feeling his brain swell and his whole body nearly failing!


    Fortunately, the pain ended quickly. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just as he felt he was about to be drained, Tang Feifei suddenly appeared out of nowhere by the shores of Moonlight Lake!


    Clad in a crisp Bureau Chief uniform and long riding boots, she exuded an imposing aura!


    Facing the roaring fire dragon, she was like a general, opening a spatial Cataclysmic treasure and pouring out a pile of shovels and axes!


    Then she commanded, "Now! The agents of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau''s Special Service Department start chopping trees and digging soil immediately! Set up a firebreak!"


    After giving orders to her own Bureau agents, she looked toward the other three forces and shouted loudly, "I''ve already notified General Ye, Director Liu, and Colonel Wang!"


    "Now all soldiers and agents are under my command, follow my orders!"


    "Divide into three groups!"


    "One group will combine two water pumps to filter out pure water, then connect it to another pump, and start watering abundantly to the south to create a fire retardant barrier!"


    "The other two groups, get the sacks ready, fill them with the soil you''ve dug up! Then prepare for the third fire retardant barrier!"


    After speaking, she walked over to the fallen Lin Ting, took the ''Seal of Ownership'' from his hand, and began summoning various firefighting tools with her own spiritual power, which she and Qiu Tu had arranged in advance!


    --------


    Two chapters, 10,000 words, haha! I''m asking for Monthly Tickets! Tomorrow continues with another 10,000!

 Chapter 375 - 276: Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Quickly, along with the massive expenditure of Tang Feifei''s spiritual power, one piece of firefighting equipment after another was summoned by her!


    The strength of a Third Order Cataclysmic was terrifying to begin with, as both their spiritual power and vitality far exceeded that of ordinary humans, so, in no time, the lakeside of Moonlight Lake was filled with hundreds of pieces of firefighting equipment.


    Seeing this scene, the soldiers and detectives from the four forces were all a bit dumbfounded.


    Clearly, they who had been ready to flee just moments ago, found themselves caught off guard by this sudden change.


    Moreover, Tang Feifei claimed she had already informed all the chiefs of the three major departments and now could restrain and command them, which they also found a bit hard to believe.


    After all... the right to command wasn''t something you could take over just by saying so.


    At the very least, you''d have to show a token or verify the orders, which was the normal protocol, wasn''t it?


    But the problem was... the situation was really too urgent, the fire was spreading incessantly with the help of the south wind, and it looked like it was about to come their way very soon.


    If they were to make a call to confirm now, they estimated that by the time the call connected and the message was confirmed, all the people present would have already been engulfed in flames.


    However... blindly obeying orders from other department chiefs was a big taboo. A single mishandling could lead to problems, or even disgust from their own chiefs.


    Thus, the several high-ranking officials present were also somewhat hesitant to decide at the moment.


    But Tang Feifei, seeing this scene, seemed as if she had anticipated it all along.


    Her eyes narrowed, like a female leopard, she swept her dangerous gaze over all the high-ranking officials present, and then, with the presence of a Third Order Cataclysmic bursting forth, she coldly shouted, "Who dares defy orders! Don''t blame me for decapitating you on the spot!"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s thinly veiled threat of death and feeling the terrifying aura emanating from her,


    the complexions of the high-ranking officials present changed involuntarily.


    Desperate times call for desperate measures. In such a critical moment, Tang Feifei might truly strike to kill and assert her authority!


    Under the threat of death, their inner scales began to slowly tilt.


    And it was at this moment that Tang Feifei spoke again. She gazed coldly over all the high-ranking officials present, then said, "I know what you are worried about."


    "So now I won''t command you. I''m just providing the firefighting tools; it''s up to you to decide whether to retreat or stay and protect Moonlight Lake," she said.


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the eyes of the high-ranking officials of the three major forces lit up.


    Those who could climb to high positions all had their tricks. They wouldn''t really take Tang Feifei''s suggestion of "option to retreat" seriously, but this pretext indeed provided them with a face-saving cover.


    If they were criticized in the future for following Tang Feifei''s orders, they could straightforwardly claim: They didn''t follow Tang Feifei''s orders, but decided on their own to put out the fire and save Moonlight Lake!


    Thinking this way, the three major forces no longer hesitated and joined the firefighting ranks en masse.


    Between the two cities and four departments, there were about a thousand or two thousand people by the shores of Moonlight Lake. Once all of them started moving in an orderly fashion, it wasn''t long before several large firebreaks were created around the lake!


    And at this time, the fire dragon, propelled by the wind, finally reached near Moonlight Lake.


    But... because of the firebreaks, it was like a rootless duckweed, unable to cross at all!


    So, it "had to" change direction and burned through the surrounding dry trees and leaves instead!


    In this way, the forest fire burned for a good three to four hours, burning all the dead leaves and dry trees in Moonlight Forest before gradually coming to an end.


    This was because Moonlight Forest was not very large, and it was not connected with the surrounding underbrush and clusters of trees...


    Otherwise, in the late autumn season, a forest fire could easily spread to the entire mountain range, burning for days and nights...


    Meanwhile, on the southern side of Moonlight Forest,


    Qiu Tu, dressed in a smart black uniform, squinted and smoked a cigarette while he also observed the bare Moonlight Forest.


    And behind him were teams of detectives from the Political Department''s Action Division, led by his twenty trusted subordinates.


    Now, both Ding Xiaoliu and Zhu Huoyan had become First Level Detectives, each leading a team of 10-15 detectives.


    So, with a casual command from Qiu Tu, he could effortlessly muster a force of two to three hundred men, which was indeed strong and robust.


    With the protection of these loyal guards, coupled with Qiu Tu''s rank among the top twelve in the Investigation Bureau and his influence, in Lin Ting''s absence, he easily took control of the Special Service Department troops stationed in Moonlight Forest. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was with these two forces that Qiu Tu rounded up the United Front elites who had set the fire and attempted to flee, capturing them all in one fell swoop!


    The whole battle didn''t last long and the casualties were minimal. With only three seriously injured and a dozen lightly wounded, they killed thirteen United Front soldiers and captured the remaining eighteen!


    At that moment, while Qiu Tu was observing the fire situation, several of his Interrogation Section subordinates, who had pledged allegiance to him in the past two days, were also working overtime in the camp, interrogating the captured United Front elites, trying to extract key intelligence from their mouths as much as possible.


    The nights of late autumn were getting colder and colder.


    Possibly concerned about Qiu Tu getting cold, Tan Huimin came over and draped a long black coat over him.


    The black coat matched the uniform, adding an even more imposing air to Qiu Tu.


    Tan Huimin had witnessed almost the entire operation that evening. Even though she was not interested in such conspiracies, calculations, or military operations, the dizzying pace of change was still somewhat astonishing to her.


    So, after she draped the coat over Qiu Tu, she didn''t step back but stood behind him, half a step behind his position, and asked softly, "Chief... how did you come up with the entire plan tonight?"

 Chapter 376 - 276: Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Why do you seem to have calculated everyone''s every move tonight so clearly...?"


    The beautiful young wife had, since tasting Qiu Tu''s dedication yesterday, seemed to add a lot more charm.


    Even on a night without light, her fair skin appeared to be shrouded in a faint glow.


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu also came back to reality from the charred Moonlight Forest.


    He tilted his head to glance at Tan Huimin, then tapped his own head with a smile and said, "It''s simple. By analysis."


    Seeing the puzzled and uncomprehending look on Tan Huimin''s face, Qiu Tu chuckled but did not explain.


    "Emotional Fraud Manual"[108 Ways to Enhance Affection] Tip 3: A touch of mystery is always the best way to attract women.


    It''s in women''s nature to be stimulated by and to crave powerful men. "Mystery" can not only provide the thrill of decrypting but also greatly elevates you in her mind.


    So, when your mystery successfully arouses a woman''s curiosity, she is not far from succumbing.


    Women''s emotional nature will lead them to continuously guess everything about you. Thus, you will gradually occupy her time, her heart...


    As he thought this, Qiu Tu also reviewed the entire process of arranging tonight''s plan.


    In fact, from the moment he learned from Liu Xiongyuan that the United Front had dispatched three divisions to seize Moonlight Lake and even had their infiltrated members start assassinating officials in several cities near Eastern City, Qiu Tu felt that something was amiss.


    With Dongye State''s establishment imminent, more than a dozen cities are now inter-connected. Each city is stationed with roughly the strength of a division.


    There are six or seven cities bordering Xinjie City and Eastern City.


    Therefore, even if the United Front''s three divisions were dispatched, they might very well be lured into a trap, easily encircled by the military of the six or seven cities.


    Moreover... if the United Front wanted to secretly seize Moonlight Lake, why not march quietly, act stealthily?


    Why resort to assassinating the upper echelons of various cities?


    Isn''t this instead a warning to all cities about the United Front''s actions?


    Where there''s something abnormal, there''s a demon at work. So, through these abnormal events, Qiu Tu boldly made a guess: Both the march of the three divisions and the assassinations of the officials in the surrounding cities were likely a ruse by the United Front!


    The likelihood was that the three divisions were tasked with some other mission; the move towards Moonlight Lake was probably just for show.


    Then the question arose. If all of this was a diversion, what were the United Front''s real countermeasures?


    Qiu Tu thought: To the United Front, if they couldn''t have something, they would destroy it.


    So he boldly speculated: There must be an elite squad that, while the United Front was making such a commotion and drawing everyone''s attention, had stealthily infiltrated either Xinjie City or Eastern City, ready to sabotage Moonlight Lake at an opportune time. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As for how to quickly and conveniently destroy Moonlight Lake, after understanding in detail the environment around Moonlight Lake and Moonlight Forest, the words "fire attack" immediately came to Qiu Tu''s mind.


    Water and fire are merciless and can turn the tide against the wind. Therefore, they are the most frequently used strategies in history.


    There is no water near Moonlight Lake, but there are fallen leaves and dry wood, which make for an ideal place for a fire attack.


    If Qiu Tu were the United Front, he would definitely set the entire Moonlight Forest ablaze, thoroughly polluting Moonlight Lake.


    And moreover... Qiu Tu also speculated:


    The reason why the United Front made such a big move after Yan Chen was promoted might very well be with the intention of forcing the four major forces to gather Moonlight Lake ahead of time, further disrupting the deployment of the four forces.


    After all, if Yan Chen had not been promoted, the four major forces, while competing, would have remained in mutual balance, with each force responsible for guarding one direction of Moonlight Forest, forming an impregnable fortress, offering no opportunity to the United Front.


    It was precisely because Yan Chen''s promotion gave the United Front an opening that they used the false information to confuse the judgments of the major forces, ultimately finding an opportunity to exploit.


    And it was by following these clues that Qiu Tu discovered the United Front''s conspiracy.


    As a result, he made some plans of his own.


    He had not only prepared various fire extinguishing tools for Tang Feifei in advance but had also used the Seal of Ownership to stamp these fire extinguishers and even Tang Feifei herself, well in advance.


    He also made arrangements for Ah-Tai to enter the rotation ranks of the Special Service Department ahead of time, ready to cooperate with Tang Feifei at any moment.


    All this could firmly establish the charge of dereliction of duty against Yan Chen and, by the way, let Tang Feifei establish authority in front of the entire Special Service Department.


    Of course... the other reason for using the "Seal of Ownership" to summon Tang Feifei was to temporarily disable Lin Ting.


    The effect of the "Seal of Ownership" is that summoning anything requires a certain "cost."


    The amount of the "cost" depends on various factors such as the volume, mass, order, and the distance between the item or creature, and the user.


    Not to mention anything else, to summon Tang Feifei, a Third Order Cataclysmic at her peak, the cost to Lin Ting would certainly not be small.


    While not fatal, it most likely would necessitate several days of recuperation.


    Do not forget, the plan Qiu Tu made for Tang Feifei was to control the most powerful department of the Investigation Bureau as much as possible: the Special Service Department.


    Whether it was pulling the agents of the Special Service Department to train at the Training Department or implanting the Five Elders'' confidants into the Special Service Department, it all served this purpose.


    And during this time, if Lin Ting, the head of the Special Service Department, could be temporarily sidelined, everything would proceed even more smoothly!

 Chapter 377 - 276: Larilos Escape! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    With these thoughts, he went over all the plans for tonight once again, and Qiu Tu felt somewhat relieved.


    Although he couldn''t directly benefit from the birth of Moonlight Lake,


    he had indirectly gained military credit and praise through its creation; he established authority for Tang Feifei; captured a group of the United Front''s elites, adding to his own qualifications; and incidentally took down Lin Ting...


    It was killing four birds with one stone.


    What was more important was... through the grand fire set by the United Front, and the crisis management by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau would once again be eligible to sit at the table where the benefits of Moonlight Lake were distributed.


    Yan Chen''s dereliction of duty almost caused the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to miss out on the benefits of Moonlight Lake, but Tang Feifei''s heroic efforts changed it all!


    The stark contrast between the two figures, one high and the other low, would become apparent; by then, Yan Chen wouldn''t even be able to make excuses at the Sanctuary!


    Thinking this, a smile couldn''t help but curl up at the corner of Qiu Tu''s mouth,


    ''I''m really looking forward to seeing Yan Chen''s expression after learning about the whole affair...''


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was lost in these thoughts,


    with the flames extinguished and the temperature gradually decreasing, Tang Feifei, leading the agents of the Special Service Department and carrying Lin Ting, slowly walked out of the Moonlight Forest.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu quickly went up to meet them.


    Approaching them, their eyes exchanged a glance, each read the perfect execution of the plan in the other''s gaze.


    ''Yan Chen is really finished this time...''


    ''If he doesn''t handle it well, he might not even be able to keep his position as Bureau Chief.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt almost ready to pop open a champagne bottle inside.


    But just then,


    suddenly, one of the two stars shining in the sky, one bright and the other dim, burst into light!


    The next second, a beam of starlight shot out from Xinjie City, trailing a dazzling tail, and raced backward into the heavens above!


    That action was like an escape...


    And that wasn''t the end; afterward, the green giant tree phantom that had always stood tall over Xinjie City suddenly exploded into a burst of starlight, scattering over the entire Xinjie City!


    Seeing this astonishing celestial phenomenon, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but be startled, then quickly looked towards Tang Feifei. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei''s expression at this moment, however, was somewhat strange.


    It was a serious look mixed with a smile, but the smile was somewhat heavy...


    Possibly feeling Qiu Tu''s gaze, she turned her head towards him, then said softly, "It seems our series of actions have thoroughly cornered Yan Chen."


    "He directly risked a severe drain on his vital energy, then forcibly terminated the advancement, releasing Larilo, to resolve the crisis."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was also shocked.


    His series of actions made Yan Chen give up his advancement?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu was quite aware of just how much he, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei had done during Yan Chen''s advancement period, and how much commotion they had caused.


    Yan Chen had only disappeared for four or five days, and Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei almost uprooted his foundation.


    And Liu Xiongyuan even took advantage of Yan Chen''s Cataclysmic Power during his advancement to forcibly induce the early formation of Moonlight Lake.


    A combination of blows later, the situation had completely reversed.


    So, it wasn''t a surprise to Qiu Tu that Yan Chen was forced by the three of them to give up his advancement.


    What surprised him was... Yan Chen''s decisiveness!


    Upon realizing his efforts were futile, he immediately cut his losses and returned to manage the crisis!


    Don''t forget, Moonlight Lake had just congealed, and things were not yet over; Yan Chen''s return could possibly turn the tables.


    And as Qiu Tu was pondering this,


    sure enough, the next second, Tang Feifei''s special communicator rang.


    Tang Feifei glanced at the communicator, then answered it.


    No sooner had the call connected than Yan Chen''s voice, slightly weak but still deep and powerful, came through.


    "Director Tang, you and Minister Qiu have done very well tonight. You did not fail the trust I placed in you."


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s first sentence, Qiu Tu''s brow unconsciously furrowed.


    ------


    It''s still two chapters, ten thousand words. Seeking a guaranteed Monthly Ticket for the new month!

 Chapter 378 - 277: The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu was no longer a novice in the officialdom.


    After these several months, he had basically come to understand some of the unwritten rules and jargon of the bureaucracy.


    Yan Chen''s remark might seem unproblematic at first glance¡ªafter all, he was the Bureau Chief, and both Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu were his subordinates.


    So it was only natural for him to commend them for their meritorious service now.


    But on closer consideration, the focus of his message became clear: "You did not let down ''my'' ''trust'' in you."


    In effect, this was a covert signal that tonight''s operation had been authorized and arranged by Yan Chen.


    Consequently, the lion''s share of the credit would go to Yan Chen.


    After all, it was Yan Chen who had the merit of leadership.


    With just a simple phrase, Yan Chen nearly foiled the plan hatched by Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, and Liu Xiongyuan to undermine him.


    When the time came to report to the Sanctuary, they would credit everything that occurred tonight to the achievements of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau¡ªthat is, to Yan Chen''s leadership.


    And he would no longer face criticism for choosing to advance his rank at such a crucial time at Moonlight Lake.


    Realizing this and understanding the deeper meaning in Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu quickly shook his head at Tang Feifei to signal her.


    If Qiu Tu could detect the self-aggrandizing message in Yan Chen''s words, Tang Feifei was certainly able to as well.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s signal, she first nodded slightly at him, and then with an aloof expression, she said, "Bureau Chief, you flatter us."


    "Confronted with such an unexpected turn of events, we were very panicked tonight."


    "We wanted to seek your guidance at the first moment, but then we remembered you were in seclusion and completely unreachable."


    "Thus, in dealing with the situation, we took over the site without your consent and even falsely used the names of Director Liu, General Ye, and Colonel Wang, claiming they authorized us to control the three major institutions!"


    "Allowing the forces of the three institutions to follow our command!"


    "Here, both Minister Qiu and I need to apologize to the Bureau Chief first."


    "Due to the urgency of the situation, we took some actions that may not have complied with the regulations. Tomorrow, we will personally compose a written self-critique to submit to the Bureau Chief for your review and response."


    Tang Feifei played her tai chi masterfully, setting the tone for tonight''s events as an emergency.


    Because it was an "emergency," there was, in fact, no issue of leadership planning or command.


    Then, she proceeded with self-criticism, admitting that she and Qiu Tu, in order to save Moonlight Lake and capture the elite squad of the United Front, may have conducted themselves in a way that breached regulations, and thus needed to review their actions.


    There were two purposes for this. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One was to minimize the impact by owning up to mistakes right after achieving a success, as well as to prevent Yan Chen from causing them difficulties later on.


    Two was that, by writing this critique, they would actually be reaffirming once again in writing that the credit for this event was entirely due to Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu.


    Yan Chen understood Tang Feifei''s implication.


    He was not a person who liked to confront issues head-on, and his body had not fully recovered since he had abruptly ended his advancement.


    So after remaining silent for two seconds, he spoke with his uniquely deep, husky voice, "Necessity knows no law. I understand."


    "Tonight''s sudden occurrence was unexpected by anyone. It''s understandable that some pre-arranged plans in the Bureau slipped up."


    "You were able to adapt on the fly, handle the situation flexibly, and help the Bureau to check and fill its gaps. You did well."


    "Regarding what comes next, I will have Director Lai take over and manage the negotiations with the military and Eastern City, as well as the matter of the share of Moonlight Lake. I will personally handle it."


    "You have worked hard tonight. Come back early and rest."


    After stating his plans in a low voice, Yan Chen did not wait for Tang Feifei''s reaction and immediately hung up the communication.


    Noticing Yan Chen''s last words, Tang Feifei''s face turned as cold as if it could freeze over.


    Although Yan Chen gave up his "leadership credit," he still played the card of "internal issues."


    Simply put, he separated himself from this oversight, positioning Lin Ting and Tang Feifei as the opposing side.


    The mistake was Lin Ting''s; the achievement was Tang Feifei''s. But whether it was an achievement or a mistake, it was an internal matter of the Bureau and not to be singled out.


    This was virtuous and seemed absolutely fair.


    Moreover, since Yan Chen was the Bureau Chief with the power to have the final say, Tang Feifei had no way to refute.


    Otherwise, it would appear as disunity and would cause an ugly scene in the higher-ups...


    Thus, following the phone call, Tang Feifei''s expression was frosty, and she remained silent.


    Standing beside her, Qiu Tu silently contemplated the spar between the two heavyweights and felt he had learned a great deal.


    Yan Chen was indeed Yan Chen. Just with one phone call, he had resolved the crisis...


    Fortunately, he still had a trump card up his sleeve.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the dark sky above.


    In the sky, the bright "Polaris" had vanished, obviously representing Yan Chen, who had failed in his advancement.


    From this viewpoint, the dim star was undoubtedly Larilo.


    The difference in the brightness of their "stars" did not stem from Yan Chen being stronger than Larilo.


    Instead, it was because of... their respective worlds.


    Larilo''s True Body was in the Boundless Heart Sea, separated from the real world by a barrier, which naturally made it appear dimmer; whereas Yan Chen, being in the real world, would appear brighter.


    And at this moment, that dim star was still shining, with the meteor that had shot up into the sky now merging with it.


    "Larilo..."


    Qiu Tu whispered the name to himself and then lowered his head.


    At the same time...


    In the study room of a Garden Villa in the City Center Garden,


    There was the crisp sound of shattering glass!


    A crystal ashtray was smashed hard against Ji Chen''s head by Yan Chen!

 Chapter 379 - 277: The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Worthless!"


    Yan Chen''s eyes were bloodshot, like those of a raging lion! S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He glared at Ji Chen, his eyes filled with a chilling coldness!


    At that moment, he seemed to have completely changed, no longer the composed and restrained man he used to be.


    Ji Chen stumbled from the blow, his head suddenly swollen.


    But he didn''t dare to rub or touch it; he quickly steadied his dizzy body and stood upright before Yan Chen, saying nothing.


    Because he knew Yan Chen was truly capable of killing someone at that point!


    "Huff... Huff..."


    Yan Chen took a few heavy breaths, glared at him fiercely, and then heavily sat down on the mahogany chair.


    After that, he picked up the desk phone, dialed a few numbers, and rapidly made several arrangements.


    These included but were not limited to instructing the Deputy Director of the Special Service Department, Lai Shun, to take over the Special Service Department outside Moonlight Forest; instructing the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, Cai Peiyuan, to take charge of the captured confidants of the United Front; pacifying Lin Ting; warning Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin.


    Having made several calls, the fury in Yan Chen''s heart seemed to have gradually subsided.


    He sat back into the darkness, the light shining on his desk, illuminating a small circle.


    With his eyes closed, he seemed to be sorting through the recent turmoil caused by Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu at the Investigation Bureau and pondering how to put everything back on track.


    Thus, after thinking for a good fifteen minutes or so, Yan Chen slowly began to speak, "Ji Chen. Do you know why I''m angry with you?"


    Ji Chen, with a large bump on his forehead, kept his head down and said softly, "I know. I failed to handle the tasks the Bureau Chief entrusted to me."


    "You failed to protect Wu Counselor, failed to capture Qiu Tu, and let Director Tang and the others take control of the Investigation Bureau."


    Yan Chen snorted heavily through his nose.


    Then, with drooping eyelids and a face full of disappointment, he said, "Not only did you not accomplish these, but you even forgot all the tasks I had given you."


    He said, "Haven''t I told you before? Lai Shun is brainless, Yu Zhengyi is slippery."


    "The moment I''m not here, you must closely watch Yu Zhengyi. Pressured by Tang Feifei, he is likely to sit on the fence, offending neither side."


    "And relying solely on Lai Shun, you can''t outfight Tang Feifei."


    "So, whenever I''m not around, and Yu Zhengyi shows any tendency to shirk responsibilities, immediately put him up as acting Bureau Chief!"


    "Occupying that position, he can''t shirk anymore. Or even if he does, he can only drag Tang Feifei down with him."


    "And as long as Tang Feifei is held back, it will create time for me, which will be advantageous to us!"


    In his final words, Yan Chen''s voice again carried suppressed rage, "Instead of the current situation, where Tang Feifei has stolen the position, and that old slicker turned a blind eye, letting Tang Feifei run amok!"


    Ji Chen quickly apologized, "Yes... Bureau Chief. It was my lack of timeliness."


    He tried to argue, "Mainly because Wu Counselor''s death was so sudden, and Director Tang''s ''coup'' was launched so unexpectedly."


    "I didn''t even have time to convey your wishes before she directly turned Director Yu against us. She then suspended me, expelled me from the Investigation Bureau, convened a high-level meeting, and established her position as acting Bureau Chief."


    "I also tried to meet with Director Yu several times afterward. If he wasn''t unavailable, even when he did meet, he practiced Tai Chi, and I simply couldn''t do anything..."


    The actions of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu this time were indeed too decisive, and Ji Chen was too slow to react; it wasn''t entirely his fault.


    So after a cold snort from Yan Chen, he still refrained from criticism.


    ¡ªAfter all... before his promotion, he also made a phone call to Yu Zhengyi, hinting that he might be away for a few days, asking Yu Zhengyi to manage the Investigation Bureau in his absence.


    Yu Zhengyi had agreed at the time.


    But when he called to inquire about this matter just now, Yu Zhengyi also played dumb, saying he thought Yan Chen wasn''t going away, assuming it wasn''t official.


    Moreover, compared to Yu Zhengyi''s habitual avoidance of responsibility, Bai Yu being controlled by Qiu Tu was the core issue causing all of Yan Chen''s arrangements to collapse.


    Despite being just Yan Chen''s secretary, Bai Yu held a high position, and his actions represented Yan Chen.


    As long as he was around, the Investigation Bureau couldn''t fall into chaos.


    Who would have thought that exactly at that time, Qiu Tu would discover Bai Yu was a follower of Larilo and got hold of the arrest warrant?


    Pondering this, Yan Chen couldn''t help feeling a bit weary.


    Previously, with his confidants Bai Yu and Jia Shu by his side, and stalwarts like Lin Ting, Guan Weimin, and Lai Shun, and even though Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin would occasionally play tricks, they were mostly obedient; thus, the Investigation Bureau could be said to be as impregnable as a fortress under Yan Chen''s management.


    Yet, in just a few short months, Jia Shu was killed, followed by Bai Yu''s arrest.


    The protege he had cultivated, Ji Chen, had mediocre abilities and was like a wall that couldn''t be leaned on.


    Even though the other senior officials were still on his side, he inexplicably felt a sense of impending doom.


    ''How did things develop to this point?''


    ''Merely because of Qiu Tu, the heavens of the Investigation Bureau changed?''


    To be honest, thinking this way, Yan Chen felt a bit ridiculous: That small detective from the beginning, was he really so capable?


    Having known him for over a year, had Yan Chen not realized that the other was a hero with grand schemes?


    For the first time truly acknowledging Qiu Tu''s capabilities, Yan Chen took a deep breath, his eyes becoming extremely sharp.


    Although the promotion caused a mess at the Investigation Bureau... it was all minor chaos.


    He was back now, and everything could easily be set right.


    Besides, he was not without the ability to fight back.

 Chapter 380 - 277: The Fisherman Benefits! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Because he decisively cut off his own problems early on, he didn''t commit a major mistake and still managed to snatch some of Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu''s merits. Thus, he didn''t lose points at the Sanctuary.


    But where he didn''t lose points, he was able to make Tang Feifei and Liu Xiongyuan lose points.


    His advancement to a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver this time was meant to strengthen the Sanctuary and bolster the power of the Investigation Bureau!


    And to Devour an Evil God was to further weaken the enemy''s power!


    Therefore, righteousness was on his side!


    While Tang Feifei and Liu Xiongyuan, one seized power while he was absent; the other prematurely activated Moonlight Lake. Both interfered with his advancement! Forcing him to give up on Devouring the Evil God!


    This not only deprived the Human Race of one more Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver but also allowed an Evil God to escape!


    The guilt was enough for Liu Xiongyuan and Tang Feifei to drink a pot!


    They might even end up with mere verbal criticism or a demotion.


    Thinking thus, Yan Chen''s anger about his failed promotion seemed to finally find an outlet!


    He stretched out his withered hand towards Ji Chen and gestured for him to leave.


    Then, he sank into deep thought for a long time before picking up the landline on the desk and dialing the direct line to the Sanctuary.....


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    On the outskirts of Moonlight Forest.


    After handing over the on-site troops to Lai Shun, Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu got into the jeep, ready to return to Xinjie City.


    The driver was Tang Feifei''s secretary, Su Xiaowan, basically one of their own. That''s why both of them didn''t hide anything when they talked.


    Since hanging up the phone, Tang Feifei''s face had looked a bit off.


    She coldly gazed out of the window at the desolate landscape and then said softly, "It has all fallen short of success."


    "Yan Chen is too decisive," she murmured.


    Qiu Tu nodded and said, "Yes. His decisive action indeed surprised me a bit."


    "I guess Liu Xiongyuan using his power to activate Moonlight Lake prematurely must have been sensed by him."


    "After weighing the pros and cons, he realized that if something went wrong with Moonlight Lake, even if he advanced, he wouldn''t get the position of Deputy Speaker, and he might even face questioning."


    "Thus, he made a quick decision, choosing the lesser of two evils."


    Upon saying this, Qiu Tu lightly added, "Besides, he is very likely harboring thoughts of blaming you and Liu Xiongyuan for his failed advancement."


    "The him of now might have already reported the situation to his backers at the Sanctuary."


    Tang Feifei, being magnanimous, though also adept at power plays, mostly engaged in straightforward strategies. She was, admittedly, a bit lacking in intrigue.


    Hearing Qiu Tu say that, she was momentarily stunned, then turned to look at Qiu Tu.


    Sensing Tang Feifei''s gaze, Qiu Tu smiled and glanced back at her, nodding in confirmation, "Indeed, with Yan Chen''s cunning and slyness, he won''t think about simply tidying up the mess. Instead, he might very well attack in defense, reversing the situation."


    Instead of panicking at Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face was filled with deep thought.


    After a moment, her sharp gaze turned to Qiu Tu and she confidently said, "If you already guessed his actions, then there''s a high likelihood... that you have a contingency plan, right?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu gave a mysterious smile and responded, "Of course...."


    Qiu Tu leaned back with his hands behind his head and said, "Do you really think you didn''t get authorization from Director Liu, General Ye, and Colonel Wang?"


    "Guess why so many people can''t get in touch with them?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei was taken aback at first, then she looked at Qiu Tu with surprise, and pointed towards the star in the sky!


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile, "What could be a greater merit than killing or routing an Evil God than a mere Moonlight Lake?"


    "Yan Chen had been consuming Larilo''s power for so long. For them, wasn''t that the greatest merit and gift?"


    "Hence, I''ve reached an agreement with Director Liu and them...." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This is what they call ''the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind; the snipe and the clam grapple, and the fisherman reaps the benefit''...."


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s confident gaze, Tang Feifei couldn''t contain her surprise any longer on her cool expression.


    She stared at Qiu Tu, almost unable to suppress the amber in her eyes....


    -------

 Chapter 381 - 278: Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Watching Tang Feifei''s eyes brimming with barely restrained desire, Qiu Tu was startled.


    He coughed lightly, then said softly, "Xiaowan is still here."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei took a deep breath, as though suppressing that flutter inside her heart.


    That was just her nature.


    Possibly due to her martial arts training, which was intense and fierce like thunder, she found it hard to restrain her lust when she was extremely interested in someone.


    In the past, she had only ever felt this way toward women. After all, women were like water, perfectly suited to extinguishing the flames within her and allowing her to vent her passion in the tender land of love. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But after meeting Qiu Tu, she realized that men could be just as interesting.


    She didn''t deny that her willingness to play those cat-and-mouse games with Qiu Tu was because of his appearance.


    After all, she had encountered many men who were mysterious and dangerous, but they were all old men who failed to spark her interest.


    That''s why she was still willing to be led on by Qiu Tu, even after seeing through some of his little tricks.


    However, things were different now.


    At first, she was only immersed in... dominating Qiu Tu, draining him dry, and taking pleasure in watching him weakly leave the bed.


    Every time she saw Qiu Tu stubbornly claim he was still fine, that he could go another round, she didn''t show it on her face, but she found it immensely amusing inside.


    Therefore, she controlled her own desires, trying her best to accommodate Qiu Tu, making sure each time to drain him to the last drop, yet leaving him just enough energy.


    And... she would even pretend to be close to her own limits.


    That was her second delight...


    But lately, she noticed things were becoming a bit different.


    As Qiu Tu''s position and responsibilities rose, offering her more and more assistance,


    she found more and more interesting points about Qiu Tu, like his strong self-confidence, his strategic planning, and his relentless determination!


    Just now, she had praised Yan Chen for his decisiveness, for amputating promptly like a great warrior.


    But... honestly, Qiu Tu was even more decisive than Yan Chen.


    At the moment when Yan Chen had just started his closed-door cultivation and Secretary Bai was under his control, Qiu Tu sharply recognized the power vacuum in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau!


    Then he incited Tang Feifei to "overthrow" and take power!


    Even a "coup" within a city''s department was a life-and-death situation. If it failed, Tang Feifei might be fine with her powerful background, but Qiu Tu would have definitely met a grim fate!


    But Qiu Tu dared to do it, and he did it with utmost decisiveness!


    It was exactly because of this decisiveness that Yu Zhengyi didn''t have the chance to rise to power, and Ji Chen didn''t have the time to carry out Yan Chen''s plans, which allowed the "coup" to succeed!


    This time, upon learning that Liu Xiongyuan planned to bring forth Moonlight Lake ahead of schedule, not only did Qiu Tu earn a huge favor from the military; he crafted a plan that killed four birds with one stone; and he had even silently set such a huge trap without a sound!


    This naturally took Tang Feifei by surprise.


    That was also why she was struggling to control her emotions.


    So after taking a deep breath, Tang Feifei spoke with a solemn voice, "Come to my place tonight."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu had actually been eating quite well these past few days, especially finding Fang Tangtang''s facial cleanser irresistibly delightful, so he really had no thoughts of indulging in Tang Feifei''s lavish meal.


    So he coughed and gently declined, "Bureau Chief, I have other plans tonight."


    The golden light in Tang Feifei''s eyes did not diminish, "One promise."


    This was her opening offer.


    Qiu Tu clicked his tongue and was about to speak.


    Tang Feifei, "Two."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    He coughed and wanted to say it wasn''t a matter of promises.


    Tang Feifei, "Three."


    After saying this, Tang Feifei turned to gaze at Qiu Tu, her expression cold as she stated, "This is the bottom line."


    "If you don''t accept, I''ll just dump you here now and go back to the city to find a gigolo."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    Honestly, Qiu Tu wasn''t particularly concerned about Tang Feifei''s threats to find a gigolo.


    What he mostly felt was that three promises were indeed quite a lot.


    So, he coughed and said, "Bureau Chief, this is coercion! Out here in the middle of nowhere, how long would I have to run to get back to Xinjie City? Do I even need to work tomorrow?"


    "So, I''m agreeing for the sake of work! Work!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a beautiful smile couldn''t help but curl on Tang Feifei''s lips.....


    Occasionally teasing Qiu Tu, her strategic subordinate, and watching him crack, was Tang Feifei''s... third pleasure.


    With that thought, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but lift her eyes to the pitch-black firmament outside the window.


    Above the firmament, the retrograde shooting star seemed to approach that dim star closer and closer.


    ''Can Qiu Tu''s plan really succeed?''


    Although Qiu Tu was always good at strategizing, Tang Feifei also knew the saying that man''s plans are no match for those of heaven.


    Especially when it came to matters like hunting the Evil God in the Boundless Heart Sea, any complication wouldn''t be surprising....


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Boundless Heart Sea...


    As the source of all Cataclysmic Power and the spiritual destination of the entire world, the Boundless Heart Sea was not, as ordinary people imagined, a mere ocean, but... a complete world, just like the real world.


    However, this world differed from the real one.


    The real world is spherical, while the Boundless Heart Sea is square-shaped....


    It is like a colossal mirror, hovering over the entire real world.


    And more bizarrely, in this Boundless Heart Sea, there is no direction, no east, west, south, north, nor any end.....


    The whole world is like a vast interactive sandbox. You walk forward toward what appears to be a desert, only to find upon reaching it that it''s a lush primitive forest instead!

 Chapter 382 - 278: Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    You want to return to your original place, but you find the path back no longer leads to where you came from.


    This is the unpredictable "Boundless Heart Sea."


    In this world with no east, west, north, or south, without any direction, the only way to determine your location is through [coordinates]!


    These coordinates represent a region''s corresponding position in reality.


    No matter to which part of the Boundless Heart Sea the region has shifted. As long as you know its coordinates, you can reach the area quickly through certain means.


    And right now, within the Boundless Heart Sea, at the region corresponding to Xinjie City.


    There stand three people at the junction of regional transit, patiently waiting...


    The region corresponding to Xinjie City is a dense and magnificent jungle.


    The sky above the jungle is pitch black, with a blood moon hanging.


    Within the jungle, the ground is covered with low growing plants that have a dazzling array of appearances, emitting enchanting glows. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Their leaves and flowers twinkle like stars under the night sky, illuminating the entire forest.


    Examining the forest before him, Liu Xiongyuan, the old man, kept his mouth tightly shut, his lips downturned, forming a cold arc.


    He said coldly, "It seems that after all these years of fighting with Yan Chen, I still don''t understand him as well as that kid Qiu Tu."


    "He told me there was a 60% chance Yan Chen might make a desperate move, forcibly halt his advancement, and let Larilo go. I didn''t believe it."


    "Now it looks like he was right after all."


    At this time, standing beside him were two middle-aged men dressed in military uniforms.


    Both of them were around forty years old. One stood straight as a column, exuding a steady dignity and an imposing appearance, with eyebrows sharp as swords, his whole body emitting a strong scent of blood.


    If Qin Shuman were here, she would recognize him. He was her direct superior, the highest commander of the Xinjie City Military Department, Major General Ye Mingfeng, who once carried out a bloody purge in Xinjie City!


    The other had a smile on his face. Though his demeanor was also extraordinary, he gave off a bit of a rough soldier''s air, clearly the highest commander of the Eastern City Military Department: Colonel Wang Hu.


    Like Liu Xiongyuan, both were Third Order Cataclysmics, and had been persuaded by Qiu Tu to come here to earn great merit.


    That''s why they had accompanied Liu Xiongyuan to the Boundless Heart Sea, to induce Yan Chen''s Illusion of the Law, precipitate the congregation of Moonlight Lake early, and ambush Larilo here.


    Initially, their thoughts weren''t much different from Liu Xiongyuan''s, feeling that Qiu Tu''s prediction was not very reliable.


    But... Qiu Tu was really persuasive, giving them the impression that they would regret it if they didn''t come.


    So, with the mindset that there was nothing to lose even if they did come on a wild goose chase, they gathered here.


    Who would have thought that Qiu Tu''s guess would actually prove correct!


    Thinking this, they couldn''t help but keep raising their estimation of Qiu Tu in their minds, and... they felt relieved that they really did come to snipe Larilo.


    With that in mind, they bucked up, calculating the time Larilo had been fleeing, and got ready.


    And so they waited another two minutes.


    Finally, a meteor streaked across the sky, then plummeted straight down into this jungle region!


    Only a "Boom!" was heard!


    An empty hole was left on the ground!


    The next second, Larilo clambered up from the ground in a sorry state.


    She was covered in blood, her spirit wilted, and her condition was obviously very poor.


    After all, unlike the other three, she didn''t enter the Boundless Heart Sea with her spirit leaving the body independently.


    Her consciousness was inseparable from this body due to Yan Chen''s calculations.


    So, after Yan Chen lifted the Domain, she had to burn her spirit forcibly to break through the world barrier with her flesh and return to the Boundless Heart Sea!


    Her plan was simple: only by escaping back to her home turf and merging with her original self could she find a way to undo this merger and take revenge on Yan Chen!


    During this escape, no matter how great the cost, it was acceptable!


    Luckily, she succeeded and truly escaped back to the Boundless Heart Sea, to her own region...


    Thinking this, Larilo breathed a sigh of relief, then climbed out of the crater and directly used her consciousness to communicate with her original self.


    But at that moment!


    Suddenly, a "Swoosh!" of a breaking air came!


    The next second, a spear of lightning shot forth from afar!


    Larilo jumped in fright, rolling awkwardly in the dirt to dodge the lightning spear!


    Only a "Boom!" thundered as the lightning spear blasted another large hole in the pit!


    "Who is it!?" Larilo stiffened and then looked palely in the direction from where the spear had come.


    The next second, three figures emerged from the jungle, unmistakably Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu.


    The three were levitating, their bodies radiating powerful auras.


    Perhaps because they were ready for battle, their appearances had also changed.


    Liu Xiongyuan, for instance... His pale hair stood on end, his whole body filled with the aura of a war god!


    His once short stature had somehow expanded more than twice its size, becoming tall and burly like a towering mountain, unshakable.


    He was bare-chested, his exposed muscles firm and powerful, seeming as though each muscle contained endless strength; his back was arched and resilient, his nostrils flared as if he were constantly breathing out flames and thunder!


    He glared at Larilo as if he were about to charge forward and shred her the next second!


    And Ye Mingfeng was similar, with a faint mist of blood surrounding him, standing quietly in the air, yet he exuded a sharpness that seemed to pierce the heavens!

 Chapter 383 - 278: Larilos Demise? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Even though he did nothing, that powerful momentum still swept in like a hurricane!


    Seeing this scene, Larilo knew she''d been calculated.


    She glared at Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu, her enraged words squeezing out from between her teeth bit by bit, "You''ve really gone mad! To dare ambush me in my own domain!"


    "It seems, when the tiger doesn''t display its might, you indeed treat me as a sick cat!"


    "Do you really think I, a deity, am famous for nothing!"


    While saying this, Larilo''s body also burst forth with a powerful momentum!


    Upon witnessing this, Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu also tensed up, maintaining a vigilant state!


    But then, who knew, the next second, like an arrow released from a bow, Larilo turned tail and ran!


    While running, she used all her strength to shout loudly, "Sister! Sister! Save me! Save me! Zhao Ji! Save me!"


    Upon seeing this, the three men realized they had been duped and quickly gave chase!


    "Boom!" a thunderclap roared!


    The sky seemed to begin drizzling a fine rain!


    Lying in bed, having just gone through a round of passionate struggle with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu tilted his head towards the suddenly overcast sky.


    Tang Feifei, with her arms bared, wrapped them around from behind his back, her elastic and wild body pressing against Qiu Tu''s back, letting him feel the softness of her chest.


    Her skin was the color of wheat, slightly different from Qiu Tu''s, but when they pressed together, it didn''t feel out of place.


    "Whoosh!"


    As if on cue, the rain began to pour down. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu lit a cigarette, his right hand holding it, while his left hand reached back to stroke Tang Feifei''s slender waist, then he softly said, "Do you think... Director Liu and the others will succeed?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei coldly said, "As long as Larilo has no reinforcements, it shouldn''t be a problem."


    "But if an Evil God comes to her aid, it will be good enough if Liu Xiongyuan and the others can retreat in one piece."


    Just as she said this, suddenly, a star in the heavens shone brightly!


    The next second, it turned into a green meteor, plummeting straight towards the earth!


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei abruptly sat up, then with her long legs, dashed to the window!


    Looking at the celestial phenomenon, Tang Feifei''s calm face took on a hint of surprise, "Did they really succeed...?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu also quickly sat up and asked, "What succeeded? Did Director Liu and the others succeed?"


    Tang Feifei nodded and said coldly, "The fall of an Evil God is always marked by a phenomenon."


    "This green meteor is likely the fall of Larilo."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu said excitedly, "So Larilo is completely dead?"


    Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then said, "Whether she''s completely dead or not, it''s hard to say."


    "After all, Larilo excelled in prolonging life and liked to use avatars."


    "But her main body is likely completely destroyed, and she has also lost the status of a Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver, no longer possessing a domain and the various powers of an Evil God."


    "That''s why this phenomenon occurred."


    Saying this, Tang Feifei seemed to recall something and chuckled lightly, "Yan Chen is going to have a headache."


    .....


    Meanwhile.


    Having exchanged information with the backstage of the Sanctuary and made several calls to understand the recent doings of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, Yan Chen sat quietly in the study.


    Perhaps because he had once again gotten a grasp on the situation, his face returned to its usual unflappable expression.


    In his aged eyes, there was also a touch of indifference.


    After sitting quietly for a while, Yan Chen was about to get up to rest.


    But just then, all of a sudden, he trembled, his face changed, and he spat out blood with a "Wow".


    ------

 Chapter 384 - 279: Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    A mouthful of fresh blood spewed out, and Yan Chen''s just-stabilized breathing became weak again.


    He looked at the bright red blood on the desk in front of him with a pained expression.


    Blood sprayed onto the mahogany desk, looking particularly conspicuous under the dim yellow light.


    Clutching his chest, Yan Chen fell back into his seat, then turned his head to look at the half-open window.


    Outside the window, a green meteor streaked across the sky, plummeting straight down to the ground!


    Upon seeing this, Yan Chen''s normally placid eyes finally filled with disbelief.


    ''Larilo actually fell?!''


    Thinking this, Yan Chen couldn''t help but reach for his chest.


    In recent days, he had taken control of Larilo through his domain, then forcibly extracted her spiritual power and vitality using his own abilities!


    In just a few days, he had drawn nearly one-third of Larilo''s spiritual power and vitality!


    All of it was stored inside his chest.


    Although the process had been interrupted later and he couldn''t directly advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, that didn''t mean these spiritual powers and vitalities were without effect.


    He only needed to refine it for a while, remove the spiritual imprint of Larilo, and he could completely convert it into his nourishment for advancement.


    With this accumulation of spiritual power and vitality, if he collected some more in the future, he could use some opportunity to attempt to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic again!


    Therefore, although he hadn''t achieved his goal by trapping Larilo this time, he hadn''t suffered a loss either.


    It was precisely because of this confidence that Yan Chen decisively lifted his domain and released Larilo upon discovering the major changes in Xinjie City.


    Who would have expected that after he released Larilo, she would be killed by someone else!


    The spiritual power and vitality he had drawn from Larilo, which hadn''t completely severed their connection, suddenly reacted and exploded along with it!


    That was the very thing that caused him to suddenly suffer a serious injury!


    And that wasn''t the end of it...


    Thinking this, Yan Chen closed his eyes and sensed the spiritual power and vitality he had drawn from Larilo within his body.


    Only a third remained.


    Although this power had become very pure due to the lack of Larilo''s spiritual connection and could be directly absorbed,


    Yan Chen had laid out his plans for so long and made so much effort, not just for this bit of power!


    Thinking this, Yan Chen''s eyes turned red with rage...


    ''Who is it? Who exactly is ruining my plans?'' S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the darkness, a suppressed aura burst forth.


    If one paid close attention, Yan Chen''s strength was only slightly less than Liu Xiongyuan, and it differed little from Tang Feifei or General Ye Mingfeng.


    This was completely inconsistent with everyone''s assessment of his strength and the general perception of him as a "civil officer"....


    Just then, the door to Yan Chen''s study was suddenly pushed open with force. Ji Chen stood at the doorway with a panicked face, and then he said to Yan Chen, "Bureau Chief! A Divine Falling Meteor! A Divine Falling Meteor! An Evil God has fallen!"


    Ji Chen hadn''t even finished speaking!


    A ''Boom!'' sounded!


    His head, as if a firecracker had been stuffed into a watermelon, exploded into a shower of gore!


    Yan Chen, permeating a slight chill, looked at Ji Chen''s corpse with cold, reddened eyes, and he snorted,


    "Undisciplined trash!"


    After saying that, he took a deep breath of foul air.


    "Don''t they know to knock before entering the study!"


    Perhaps killing someone eased the maliciousness in Yan Chen''s heart somewhat.


    His eyes gradually returned to that cloudy gray, and his expression once again became impassive.


    After sitting quietly for about two to three minutes, Yan Chen finally stretched out his aged left hand and gently pressed a button on the desk.


    A few seconds later, several solemn-looking investigators hurried over.


    They glanced at Ji Chen''s corpse lying by the doorway of the study, showed surprise at first, then quickly saluted Yan Chen, and only after that did they begin to clean up swiftly.


    A minute later, the blood at the doorway of the study and Ji Chen''s body were all thoroughly cleaned up and buried in the garden of the backyard.


    This newly-appointed Deputy Staff head, who had always been jealous of Qiu Tu and tried several times to create trouble for him, thus completely vanished from the world...


    From beginning to end, Qiu Tu never even looked at him properly, nor did he ever consider him an enemy....


    The door to the study slowly closed, keeping the light out and leaving only darkness within the room.


    Yan Chen leaned back in his chair, head tilted back, his mind slowly turning.


    After killing Ji Chen and venting the frustration in his heart, Yan Chen realized there were even more problems.


    Many details about Larilo''s fall were suspicious.


    As a Fourth-order Evil God, it would have been very difficult to kill her if not for Yan Chen''s calculated steps to trap her. Even if outmatched in the real world, she could entirely escape.


    Only someone like Yan Chen, who took advantage during Larilo''s moment of vulnerability, using an array to forcibly fuse her soul and body, could truly harm her.


    Initially, the "credit" for slaying a god was reserved for himself, but now someone else had picked the fruit. It was clear that someone had been watching him and Larilo for some time.


    Moreover, a Fourth-order Evil God that had fled into the Boundless Heart Sea, even if temporarily unable to merge with her main body, could still use the power of the main body.


    At the very least, it would take three Third-Order Peak Cataclysmics to have a chance against her...


    Thinking this, Yan Chen''s cloudy gaze flickered incessantly, and several names slowly emerged in his mind, ''Liu Xiongyuan... Ye Mingfeng... Tang Feifei...''


    When he thought of the last name, Yan Chen hesitated for a moment, then shook his head slightly, ''It shouldn''t be Tang Feifei. She''s setting a trap for me in Moonlight Forest tonight.''

 Chapter 385 - 279: Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ''So.....''


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen hesitated for a moment, ''Wang Hu?''


    After figuring out the three people who took action, Yan Chen''s smile on his face was somewhat ferocious.


    His aged, deep voice echoed in the study room, "Good, good.... Two cities, four major forces join hands! All to scheme against me!"


    "This game is well played!"


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen couldn''t help but close his eyes, beginning to ponder who exactly initiated all this.


    Colonel Wang Hu from the Eastern City Military Department was a soldier through and through, with a strong rough-and-ready air about him. He would take advantage when possible, but he never stirred up trouble on his own. It likely wasn''t him.


    Ye Mingfeng of Xinjie City Military Department was arrogant and proud, conducting himself openly and honorably, never stooping to use overt schemes or underhanded tactics. He was driven by a strong will within, and for him, everything was about kill! Kill! Kill! It likely wasn''t him either.


    As for Tang Feifei... although intelligent, due to her family background, she preferred to use overt schemes and was not adept at employing sinister plots and tricks...


    So, calculating this way, it only left...


    ''Liu Xiongyuan?''


    Thinking of his old rival,


    Yan Chen''s brows slightly furrowed. Liu Xiongyuan indeed was an unconventional man. Perhaps due to his humble origins, he went to any lengths, regardless of the consequences, in whatever he did.


    But to put it bluntly... Yan Chen didn''t believe Liu Xiongyuan was the type to use such a Chain Plan.


    If he did have the brains for such a Chain Plan, Jia Wei wouldn''t have escaped for so many years; he would''ve been forced out long ago.


    ''Could there be someone else?''


    ''Is it some important figure weaving the threads, laying out the plan?''


    With this thought... Yan Chen''s brow tightened.


    Like that, after pondering for a full half-hour, Yan Chen still couldn''t figure out who could have united four Bureau Chief-level figures to set up such an intricate Chain Plan.


    It couldn''t be Qiu Tu, could it?


    Although Yan Chen also felt that Qiu Tu was somewhat suspicious, it wasn''t easy for Qiu Tu, a lowly detective with humble origins, to instigate a "coup" involving Tang Feifei.


    Was he to pull strings and have four Bureau Chiefs run around for his plan? Yan Chen found it unlikely... S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Especially since... the relationships between Tang Feifei, Liu Xiongyuan, and Ye Mingfeng could only be considered average at best, incapable of making introductions on behalf of Qiu Tu. How could Qiu Tu gain the trust of those three Bureau Chief-level figures?


    Even if Tang Feifei had avenged Liu Xiongyuan''s son, earning Liu Xiongyuan''s favor, but... with such a great accomplishment as slaying an Evil God, why wouldn''t Tang Feifei participate herself instead of letting others benefit?


    Wasn''t that making a wedding dress for someone else?


    Because of the false information previously provided by Qiu Tu, Yan Chen obviously didn''t know about the relationship between Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan.


    It was precisely the lack of this most critical piece of information in the mix that caused him to unknowingly brush past the truth of the matter...


    However, although he couldn''t figure out who was playing tricks, precisely for this reason, Yan Chen''s vigilance in his mind had been raised to the utmost.


    He was completely immersed in darkness, beginning to contemplate how to unravel this situation...


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    In Tang Feifei''s villa,


    Qiu Tu was holding Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored body, while secretly communicating with Liu Xiongyuan.


    On the other end of the communicator, Liu Xiongyuan was clearly ecstatic. A smile was almost uncontrollable on his tanned face.


    He laughed heartily, and then said, "Qiu Tu ah! You''re a damn genius!"


    "To actually calculate everything to such a degree!"


    "You don''t know how splendid Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu''s faces were when they found out Yan Chen really unlocked the Domain and let Larilo go!"


    "Plus, you haven''t fought against the Evil God. Their endless tricks and their ever-changing abilities are so hard to deal with!"


    "It''d be okay if we directly used heavy firepower, but if we went to handle it, it would just be a headache!"


    Saying this, Liu Xiongyuan''s tone changed, happily saying, "But today is different! Larilo''s consciousness was locked into that avatar by Yan Chen. After being devoured by Yan Chen for three or four days, it had already become extremely weak."


    "So, she could only unleash three or four tenths of her full strength, hardly a match for the three of us."


    "Therefore, we soon slew her!"


    At this point, Liu Xiongyuan was clearly pleased with himself, "This is slaying a God! In the entire Eighth Sanctuary, only a few people have achieved this feat!"


    "And I''ve accomplished it today!"


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s excited words, Tang Feifei''s beautiful eyes were shining brightly on the side.


    She was also a martial artist by training and actually longed for the kind of battle where one was evenly matched with an Evil God.


    Previously, she was merely engrossed in Qiu Tu''s intricately linked Chain Plan and overlooked the battle against the Evil God!


    Now, listening to Liu Xiongyuan''s words, the clear yellow in the depths of her eyes also seemed to be struggling to stay submerged.


    At that moment, as if Qiu Tu sensed her mood, he directly slapped her wheat-colored buttocks.


    Perhaps due to martial training, Tang Feifei''s buttocks were both perky and elastic.


    So the slap felt great to the touch.


    Tang Feifei frowned, suddenly turning to look at Qiu Tu like a fierce leopardess, a hint of danger flashing in her attractive eyes.


    Clearly... though her relationship with Qiu Tu was getting better, her dignity was not something Qiu Tu could so easily violate.


    Qiu Tu was actually using this to probe Tang Feifei, and seeing her sensitivity, he quickly pointed at the earpiece, indicating that now was not the time to be playful.


    Then, clearing his throat, he said to Liu Xiongyuan with a serious face, "Director Liu, don''t get too excited yet."


    "Actually... the reason I had you three go after Larilo was also for another purpose."

 Chapter 386 - 279: Promoting a Deputy Speaker! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    "It''s just, because I thought the chances of Yan Chen cutting off his arm to save the rest of his body were not that high, only sixty percent; and moreover, I wasn''t certain if the three of you could truly kill Larilo. So..... I didn''t tell you."


    By now, Qiu Tu had become an image of a strategic military advisor in Liu Xiongyuan''s mind.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu say this, he also instantly wiped the smile off his face, suppressed the excitement in his heart, and became serious once again.


    He asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Qiu Tu said indifferently, "Bureau Chief, actually, ever since our last meeting, I''ve always felt that we two got along very well."


    "Especially since you personally facilitated my meeting with Elder Wang, I could especially feel that caring heart of yours towards me."


    "So, after returning that evening, I kept thinking: Is there anything I can do for you, anything that might help you?"


    "At that time, I remembered what Elder Wang had said over the communicator. He said he was still trying to plan for your ascension to the position of Deputy Speaker. Although the hope was slim, he told you... not to give up easily." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "At that moment, I thought, could I help you compete for the position of Deputy Speaker as well?"


    "Because I thought of the Deputy Speaker position, I couldn''t help but think of Yan Chen."


    "In that instant, it was as if a light bulb had turned on: Yan Chen could ascend to Fourth-order Cataclysmic and become Deputy Speaker by killing an Evil God."


    "So, if you also killed an Evil God and ascended to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, wouldn''t Huang Shangzong have no choice but to acknowledge you?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then continued, "Although I''m unclear if you can ascend to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic. But now..... the Evil God, I''ve taken care of that for you."


    "See if you can exchange some other benefits with General Ye and Colonel Wang to make the credit for the killing of the Evil God wholly yours."


    "The rest, whether you can ascend to Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, will be your own issue to face."


    "I believe that, with Larilo''s fall, there must have been plenty of Cataclysmic Material left behind, and with your many years of accumulation, you must have more than Yan Chen. Ascending to Pseudo Fourth Order shouldn''t be impossible, right?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, then said, "Of course, you certainly know more about these things than I do."


    "Everything is up to you to decide."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, whether it was Tang Feifei, who was glaring at Qiu Tu like a pantheress just a moment ago, or Liu Xiongyuan on the other end of the phone, both of them were stunned.


    They were both shocked by Qiu Tu''s bold plan!


    Yan Chen was set to become Deputy Speaker by ascending to Pseudo Fourth Order after killing an Evil God.


    And Liu Xiongyuan had already been designated for the Deputy Speaker position, but he was vetoed by Speaker Huang Shangzong.


    If Liu Xiongyuan now single-handedly took down an Evil God, and also ascended to Pseudo Fourth Order! Would Huang Shangzong still be able to veto Liu Xiongyuan, would he still be able to withstand that pressure?


    Would the entirety of Sanctuary''s upper echelons truly disregard an individual with accomplishments, capabilities, seniority, and strength like Liu Xiongyuan, just for the likes and dislikes of Huang Shangzong?!


    Moreover, Huang Shangzong may be a high-level figure in Sanctuary, but Elder Wang is as well. Liu Xiongyuan also has powerful backing and influence within Sanctuary.


    With such a breakthrough! He could very well regain the position of Deputy Speaker!


    "Genius....."


    Liu Xiongyuan muttered softly on the other end of the phone.


    But perhaps because the issue was too significant, he didn''t exhibit the same excitement or arrogance as before.


    He said to Qiu Tu with utmost calmness, "Qiu Tu, I won''t forget this huge favor you''ve done for me."


    "Right now, I need to talk things over with Old Ye and Hu Zi."


    "I believe they''ll be willing to give me this face."


    Saying this, Liu Xiongyuan paused, then continued, "If I really become Deputy Speaker, I will make sure to repay you."


    ----------


    A 10,000-word chapter, haha! Vote for Monthly Ticket! Continuing with daily 10,000 words!!


    ```

 Chapter 387 - 280: Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    If Yan Chen had made this promise to Qiu Tu, Qiu Tu would have mostly taken it as a joke.


    After all, when it comes to what Yan Chen says, nobody knows how much is true and how much is false.


    If it were Tang Feifei who had made the promise to Qiu Tu, he would also keep it in mind, planning to use it if an opportunity arose, or disregard it if it didn''t.


    After all, though Tang Feifei is someone who keeps her promises, she also carries the pride of a major family''s direct lineage: she would remember your favor, and if you sought her help, she would lend a hand.


    But if you didn''t seek her out, she wouldn''t regard you any differently because of the favor. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all... there were too many people willing to help her on a regular basis.


    But... this promise was made to Qiu Tu by Liu Xiongyuan!


    In this period of time, through interactions with Liu Xiongyuan and various pieces of intelligence, Qiu Tu had come to understand Liu Xiongyuan''s character traits.


    He was someone who would avenge wrongs as surely as he would repay kindness!


    Moreover, perhaps because he came from the lower strata, he had plotted meticulously and endured untold hardships to ascend every step of the way!


    Liu Xiongyuan had a standard measure for treating everyone.


    When you truly helped him out, he would always remember the favor and take the initiative to repay it.


    And because of this trait, he naturally classified the people around him into "different ranks."


    This wasn''t a derogatory remark, but a commendatory one. He could clearly discern who was one of his own, who was just an acquaintance, and who was an enemy.


    Once he considered you one of his own, he would even help you without expecting anything in return.


    This sense of "Jianghu loyalty" could only be found in someone who came from humble beginnings!


    Like the last time when Qiu Tu helped Liu Xiongyuan avenge his son, Qiu Tu had an issue, and Liu Xiongyuan rushed over to Xinjie City without hesitation.


    He even took the initiative to introduce Qiu Tu to Elder Wang.


    And to here, he didn''t even mention repaying a favor; all this was just part and parcel of his actions.


    The situation was the same this time. Now that Liu Xiongyuan had acknowledged this huge favor, once he truly became the Deputy Speaker,


    Qiu Tu would have a genuine insider at the upper echelons of the Dongye State Council!


    No matter what issues arose in the future, Liu Xiongyuan would stand up for Qiu Tu, and if there were benefits, Liu Xiongyuan would also actively fight for them on Qiu Tu''s behalf!


    And this... was precisely the result Qiu Tu was aiming for with all his plotting!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was not shy. He laughed and said, "Then, I must thank Director Liu for his generous affection in advance."


    "I await the good news from you!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan "Ah"ed in response and said, "Stop calling me Bureau Chief all the time. Just call me Uncle Liu."


    A change in address, but it signified that Liu Xiongyuan truly regarded Qiu Tu as one of his own this time.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t refuse and naturally called out, "Uncle Liu."


    Liu Xiongyuan laughed heartily, his pale eyebrows trembling along with his smile.


    It added a touch of liveliness and warmth to this small old man, who was as powerful and majestic as a thunder god.


    After laughing, he said, "Alright. I won''t chat anymore with you now. I''m going to get started on this matter right away."


    "Larilo''s divine body was slain by us, crystallizing into a divine body and transforming into the highest grade of Cataclysmic Material, the ''Boundless Divine Crystal.''


    "I''ll save two pieces for you, and will have someone deliver them to you in the next couple of days."


    "This highest grade of Cataclysmic Material is useful whether for refining the Cataclysmic Potion, crafting Cataclysmic treasures, or enhancing strength."


    "Keep them safe."


    Having arranged all this, Liu Xiongyuan didn''t linger and directly hung up the phone. He knew that it was best to act sooner rather than later, as a minute''s delay could mean a minute''s worth of unforeseen changes.


    Qiu Tu, however, didn''t mind. He had helped Liu Xiongyuan twice.


    The first time, Liu Xiongyuan had accepted him, but because of their limited interaction and Qiu Tu''s own agendas,


    Liu Xiongyuan did not consider him one of his own but as a benefactor, and extended some support and assistance.


    But this time, since everything was initiated for the sake of Liu Xiongyuan, and Qiu Tu exhibited his capabilities through a tight sequence of strategic maneuvers,


    Liu Xiongyuan fully acknowledged Qiu Tu, not only treating him as one of his own but also as a junior to be nurtured.


    With such a transformation, the better Liu Xiongyuan developed, the greater the benefits for Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu wished nothing more than for Liu Xiongyuan to immediately negotiate terms with Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu; to be promoted to Pseudo Fourth Order immediately; to become the Deputy Speaker at once.


    Your own efforts count for little; letting your "boss" work hard to take you soaring is the true path to success!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, who had executed all his plans perfectly today, hummed a tune happily, put away his special communicator, and prepared to sleep.


    But just as he put away the communicator, Qiu Tu looked up and saw Tang Feifei''s aggressive gaze.


    She was naked, her hands propped on either side of Qiu Tu''s body, watching him with those predatory eyes, full of wildness.


    Her healthy, wheat-colored face was filled with danger and desire.


    Qiu Tu was startled and scooted back like a little lamb, "Director, please compose yourself!"


    Tang Feifei, upon hearing this, pounced on him even more ferociously!


    With a forward leap, she pinned Qiu Tu to the bed and pressed his head onto her ample and resilient twin peaks!


    She then applied a cross-lock, a technique from grappling, constricting Qiu Tu''s neck, and said with a mix of threat and coquettishness, "Is that old guy Liu Xiongyuan more interesting than me?"


    "You plan so diligently for him but not for me?"


    Her voice was exceptionally icy, "The Evil God didn''t let me fight, the Deputy Speaker didn''t let me become one. Just left me to do the hard labor."

 Chapter 388 - 280: Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Are you really mine, or are you his?"


    Trapped inside Yue Xiong by Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu experienced a facial cleanser unlike anything Fang Tangtang had to offer.


    Plus, Tang Feifei''s beautiful wheat-colored skin.


    Oddly, a new descriptor popped into Qiu Tu''s mind: chocolate milk?


    While daydreaming to himself, Qiu Tu hurried to explain, "Feifei, it''s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding."


    "We''re definitely on the same side. But... your rank''s a bit low, and even if I help you, you can''t become Deputy Speaker."


    "So, it''s better if we first help Uncle Liu."


    "You heard him too, he said he would remember our favor."


    "Once he gets promoted, won''t your appointment come soon?"


    In truth, both understood the logic in Qiu Tu''s words, but... Tang Feifei clearly just wanted to take the opportunity to erupt!


    Therefore, she keenly caught the inappropriateness in Qiu Tu''s words.


    With a "hehe" laugh, she coldly said, "My position is low?"


    "Okay, great. You''ve revealed your true thoughts, huh?"


    "No problem, my position may be low, but it''s still two ranks above yours!"


    "Tonight, I''ll let you experience what it means when one rank trumps the rest!"


    "Come on! Get up and practice martial arts!" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With that, Tang Feifei flipped over, Ma Qi on top of Qiu Tu, and then began her conquest of Qiu Tu!


    And what could Qiu Tu do? He could only sip on chocolate milk and try to keep up...


    Maybe Tang Feifei was slightly angry, for this time she guided Qiu Tu''s martial arts without holding back a bit!


    Thus, that night, Qiu Tu truly got trained without any temper left...


    Rain fell "whooshing" outside the window.


    As if cleansing the whole of Xinjie City.


    And amidst that "whooshing" rain, a pale green phantom, only visible through "Spiritual Vision," flashed across Xinjie City...


    If one slowed down her speed a few times and observed closely, they would find it was none other than the fallen Larilo...


    "What the hell is up with that old man! Eight-arm Lei Gong?! Manifesting a divine body!"


    "He smashed my Divine Body with his bare hands?!"


    "Isn''t that a bit exaggerated?!"


    "Even if I''m not at my peak, this is still way too exaggerated, right?"


    "Is he the Evil God, or am I the Evil God?!"


    "#@%*!"


    "What path is he really on?!"


    After cursing a few times in her heart, Larilo hovered in the air, cautiously looking around.


    "Luckily... if there''s one thing I don''t have, it''s a strong vitality."


    "Even if my Divine Body is shattered, and I no longer possess the status of a Fourth Order Cataclysmic, nor do I have a Domain or various powers."


    "But... at least I''m still alive!"


    The continuous blows from the last few days clearly stretched her spirit taut, to the point she began to mutter to herself.


    "Moreover, not only am I alive, but I also have that damned sister!"


    "As long as I sustain my consciousness, get through these days."


    "I can find a chance to contact her!"


    "With her around, just a few bites off her and returning to my peak isn''t a dream!"


    At this thought, Larilo''s sanguine eyes were filled with an evil gleam, "By then! I must dismember those four who plotted against me! Hurt me! Into pieces and scatter their ashes to the wind!"


    Thinking this, Larilo took a deep breath. Then, with her eyes closed, she sensed the "Reproduction" power of the path she was on...


    Shortly, she abruptly opened her eyes, looking towards a nondescript villa among a cluster not too far away.


    ''A normal person rejuvenated many times by a Second Order Cataclysmic?''


    ''Just lost her virginity, turned into a woman?''


    ''But without traces of a Cataclysmic nearby?''


    ''There''s Reproduction power, but low danger?''


    Feeling that aura, Larilo hesitated.


    Truth be told, her current self only had her consciousness left, her soul in such fragility it couldn''t withstand any turbulence.


    If she didn''t find a suitable possession target before the sunrise, then she might truly fall completely.


    But the problem was... the requirements for her possession target were rather stringent:


    It had to be a normal person and must have "Reproduction" related power¡ªthat is, the person must have fused with a Cataclysmic!


    Only then could she recover swiftly.


    More troublesome was... the Cataclysmic had to meet a certain strength criterion. A Third Order Cataclysmic wouldn''t do because just a scan from one could likely detect Larilo.


    A First Order might barely do, but the recovery would be slow.


    So, the best option was a Second Order Cataclysmic: they wouldn''t detect her but could quickly restore her power.


    Therefore, this target was truly top-notch.


    It was only after much difficulty and a long search through Xinjie City that she finally encountered it.


    But what made her hesitate was... she was too familiar with the owner of that aura: Qiu Tu.


    To be honest, in the vast Xinjie City, there were really only two people that Larilo felt wary or afraid of.


    One was Yan Chen, and the other was Qiu Tu.


    The former calculated her like a dog, nearly killing her in his Domain. The latter was like drinking water when it came to tricking people, more adept than she, an Evil God, at beguiling hearts.


    And, whether it was the Evil God''s sixth sense or not, she always felt like Qiu Tu had a hand in tonight''s ambush.


    So, at her weakest, she really didn''t want to interact with Qiu Tu, fearing being calculated by him.


    It''s just... she had already been carefully moving throughout Xinjie City for an entire night. Her consciousness was growing weaker by the moment and couldn''t hold on much longer.


    And most importantly... there were a few Third Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City. Larilo had been very careful to avoid them.

 Chapter 389 - 280: Revive, Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    But if she continued searching like this, once they met, Larilo might completely disperse¡ªsoul and spirit shattered.


    Thinking this, Larilo hesitated for a long time before biting the bullet, stomping her foot, and flying straight toward the villa!


    Soon, she passed through the walls and entered the bedroom of the villa.


    There, a beautiful girl slept.


    She had a delicate, pretty oval face, fair skin, long eyelashes, and pouty lips.


    Even though Qiu Tu had awakened her powers, her face still retained the innocence and naivety of a young girl.


    Seeing the girl''s beautiful appearance and aura, Larilo''s eyes lit up slightly: What a gem.


    No wonder Qiu Tu hadn''t taken the bait despite her sending so many women to seduce him¡ªhe had been hiding and enjoying something better.


    Thinking this, Larilo couldn''t help but take another look at the girl''s figure.


    When she saw the facial cleanser that drove Qiu Tu crazy, Larilo clicked her tongue in her mind and then criticized:


    This girl definitely can''t weigh over 61, after all, kids don''t have an E cup at 36.


    However, it was precisely because of her innocent appearance and tempting figure that Larilo believed Qiu Tu would definitely not "let go" of this girl.


    Instead, he would come by every now and then to "reproduce" with her!


    So, if she just possessed this girl and absorbed the power of "reproduction", soon she would be able to strengthen her own consciousness and then reach out to her sister to be reborn...


    At this, Larilo no longer hesitated and attached herself to Fang Tangtang, possessing Fang Tangtang''s body.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to sense something in her sleep. Her lovely brows furrowed slightly, then she turned over and finally fell back into a deep sleep...


    ''This girl''s Spiritual Perception is quite high... She seems to have the potential to become a Cataclysmic,'' Larilo thought silently to herself, but even with a life full of ups and downs, Larilo couldn''t hold on any longer and slowly fell asleep... S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But what she didn''t know was,


    After she fell asleep, a pair of giant eyes suddenly opened in the pitch-black sky above Xinjie City.


    The pupils of the giant eyes spanned across the sky of Xinjie City, almost as large as half the city itself!


    The giant eye had three rings, each encircling the next, making it look exceptionally cold, powerful, and as if it scorned all life with the indifference of a god.


    In fact, that was exactly the case!


    With just one glance, the hearts of all Third Order Cataclysmics in Xinjie City felt as if they were being squeezed¡ªsuddenly tightening!


    Many Third Order Cataclysmics who were asleep suddenly woke up, then looked up at the sky with fearful faces!


    And Ye Mingfeng, Tang Feifei, Dai Yukang, Yan Chen, and a few other peak Third Order Cataclysmics, simultaneously erupted with their aura, instantly getting into combat mode!


    Sensing that immense crisis, the alarms of the Security Department shrieked endlessly! Numerous Security Department specialists scrambled to their feet!


    They started making phone calls, mobilizing large-scale weaponry!


    This... was the deterrent power of the Fifth-order Evil God Zhao Ji.


    Luckily, Zhao Ji had only taken one look and did not say anything before leaving Xinjie City.


    It was as if... she really just came to have a look.


    However, after she left, the upper echelons of Xinjie City could no longer sleep.


    Soon, an investigative report led by the intelligence branch of the Security Department, headed by Qin Shuman, was placed before the city''s elite.


    In the report, the Security Department speculated that Larilo''s fall might have caught the attention of Zhao Ji.


    With Larilo''s fetters and restrictions gone, this most powerful Evil God of the Planning Area might be preparing to extend her influence¡ªnamely, to swallow Xinjie City.


    This time, she clearly only tested the waters.


    Besides, in Qin Shuman''s report, based on Zhao Ji''s actions, she boldly theorized: Although Larilo had fallen, she might not have died but could be hidden somewhere in Xinjie City...


    --------


    2 chapters! 10,000 words! Seeking Monthly Tickets! Continuing with 10,000 a day!

 Chapter 390 - 281: Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    In Qin Shuman''s report, Zhao Ji''s actions this time were clearly very unusual, completely different from the previous invasions by evil gods.


    Previously, if an evil god took an interest in a place, they would most likely engage in fierce battle with the evil god of that region directly.


    The victor would extend their domain, enveloping the region corresponding to the city in the "Boundless Heart Sea," and begin to infiltrate their power.


    Even if an evil god of a certain region were to suddenly fall, creating a power vacuum in that area, the first arriving evil god would typically claim it directly.


    After all, evil gods are not the same as ordinary Cataclysmic Creatures. Their sources of power come not only from practicing their own "Path," but also from two other major channels.


    One is harvesting the faith of followers; the other is controlling regions in the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    The "Boundless Heart Sea" is the world of the mind, and all the splendor within this world is shaped by the thoughts and musings of the beings from the real world.


    Thus, the world is power itself!


    The more regions of the Boundless Heart Sea one controls, the stronger one''s power becomes.


    So, if Larilo truly fell, then as an evil god, Zhao Ji would definitely start to infiltrate and seize the region of Xinjie City.


    But she did not do so; she merely glanced at it, left her aura, and then departed.


    Her actions seemed less like she wanted to occupy Xinjie City and more like she was deterring other evil gods.


    Later, combining the intelligence from the Eastern City Investigation Bureau that "Larilo and Zhao Ji are very likely to be related," Qin Shuman deduced that although Larilo had fallen, she probably wasn''t dead.


    She was likely clinging to consciousness and a sliver of her soul, struggling to survive.


    Qin Shuman reasoned that Zhao Ji came to Xinjie City probably because she discovered Larilo''s fall and wanted to check on it.


    If Larilo was truly dead, she would have taken over Xinjie City.


    But now, discovering that Larilo hadn''t fallen, she left her own aura to deter surrounding evil gods, covered for Larilo, and then left on her own.


    Qin Shuman''s deductions were well-founded.


    Therefore, most of the higher-ups agreed with this investigative report. This also allowed them to relax a bit.


    After all, having just taken down a Larilo, if another Zhao Ji were to arrive, the hearts of Xinjie City''s upper echelons would probably be in their throats again!


    Now, with Zhao Ji''s invasion unlikely in the short term, they could breathe a little easier.


    However, what nobody knew was that Qin Shuman''s report actually... had two versions....


    The first version was the one submitted to the higher-ups of the three major institutions of Xinjie City.


    The second version was only submitted to Dai Yukang, the head of the Security Department, and..... secretly copied and given to Qiu Tu.


    The second version of the report was largely the same as the first.


    But at the end, Qin Shuman daringly proposed a "fighting evil gods with an evil god" strategy.


    She believed that since Larilo was now weak and had the protection of the Great Evil God Zhao Ji,


    Then... could they not secretly find Larilo, then control her?


    Prevent her from recovering, yet not let her perish completely.


    By using the existence of her remaining aura, they could have Zhao Ji come by occasionally to spread her aura, deterring other evil gods.


    As a result, Xinjie City might enjoy an unprecedentedly peaceful era free from evil god corruption.


    And what''s more crucial, the area corresponding to Xinjie City in the Yinxin Sea would be temporarily without a master.


    For the portions of the "Boundless Heart Sea" already dominated by evil gods, this was an extremely rare state.


    Thus, the Security Department could absolutely apply to the Sanctuary.


    Requesting the Sanctuary to allocate experts, technicians, and some high-level Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolvers to jointly study this region.


    To discover the secrets of the origin of the "Boundless Heart Sea," the source of Catastrophe Power.


    And also... to investigate whether human catastrophe-evolvers could control regions like evil gods, enhancing their own powers!


    Although all the major Sanctuaries had been researching this topic for the past two years, due to the rarity of opportunities like the one presented by Xinjie City, progress had been consistently slow.


    The higher ranking Sanctuaries with stronger capabilities could even establish a foothold in the "Boundless Heart Sea" amidst evil gods to conduct research.


    But the lower ranking Sanctuaries had absolutely no chance at all.


    And now, the chance had come for the Eighth Sanctuary!


    The second version of Qin Shuman''s report was both bold and feasible, Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Keenly seizing this once-in-a-millennium opportunity.


    So when Qiu Tu arrived at the Investigation Bureau the next day, and read Qin Shuman''s report in his office, he was immediately impressed by her ingenious idea.


    However, he clearly identified two key issues with the plan.


    So after carefully studying the report, he set it aside, locked his office door, and then took out a specially made Communicator to phone Qin Shuman.


    "Beep.... Beep..... Beep....."


    Qin Shuman was obviously busy on the other end, so the phone kept ringing seven or eight times without being answered.


    Qiu Tu was not in a hurry; he knew that after the incident of Zhao Ji''s nocturnal raid on Xinjie City last night, Qin Shuman, as the head of the Security Department''s intelligence system, must be extremely busy now.


    So he hangs up the call, patiently waiting for Qin Shuman''s response.

 Chapter 391 - 281: Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Like that, after more than ten minutes had passed, Qiu Tu''s specially designed communicator finally rang.


    Qiu Tu picked up the communicator and answered the call. Immediately, Qin Shuman''s voice, carrying a hint of elegance and seduction, came through the receiver,


    "Hello? Minister Qiu~~?"


    "It seems... you''re quite interested in my ''Evil God Capture Plan''~ You called me as soon as you got to work."


    Just by listening to Qin Shuman''s sweet voice, Qiu Tu could almost visualize her tall and lithe figure.


    She seemed to be standing in front of Qiu Tu with her hands behind her back, her eyes forming beautiful crescents as if she were smiling-but-not-smiling at him.


    Qiu Tu "looked" at Qin Shuman''s figure and then, smiling, said, "Your plan, I guess no one would be uninterested in it."


    "But, I believe you probably haven''t shown it to many people, have you?"


    At the other end of the line, Qin Shuman was standing in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows of her office.


    Her hair casually piled at the back of her head, she looked both capable and elegant. Dressed in a grass-green military uniform, she stood tall and resolute, her eyes like autumn waters gazing confidently out the window...


    She said with a laugh, "Indeed. I only showed it to Director Dai and you."


    "Director Dai was very interested and then ordered me to form a new search system at the core of the intelligence system, drawing personnel from the military''s various departments and the Security Department''s different sections, and then to secretly search for Larilo''s whereabouts."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help chuckling and then said, "You all are moving too fast."


    Standing upright in front of the window, Qin Shuman confidently and unhurriedly said, "We can''t afford to be slow. Nobody knows how long it will take for Larilo to revive."


    "And..." she paused, whispering, "Do you think only Yan Chen and Liu Xiongyuan are eyeing up the positions in the newfound parliament of Dongye State?"


    "General Ye and Director Dai have also been paying a lot of attention and trying hard."


    "If they really do capture Larilo, they will suddenly have an important chip in their hands."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, though slightly surprised, was not taken aback.


    If he remembered correctly, Tang Feifei had once analyzed for him that Ye Mingfeng represented the ''Young faction'' within the military.


    With a military rank that was within the top three of the soon-to-be-established Dongye State, and the other two also being majors, it was logical for him to compete for the position of Deputy Speaker.


    As for Dai Yukang, he was a powerful figure within the Security Department system. With the establishment of Dongye State, someone was bound to become the top dog of the entire Security Department structure.


    His interest was also very understandable.


    However... this plan, once successful, would indeed bring them huge political wealth, but Qiu Tu had not forgotten his purpose for calling: there were still two key issues in the plan that had not been resolved.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask the question he was curious about.


    He said, "Your plan is sound, but... to capture Larilo, you''ll need to capture her Cataclysmic treasures and find her location, right?"


    "How are you planning to resolve these two issues?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman laughed.


    Her nose bridge was prominent, and when she smiled, she looked very elegant, "So, this is where I need Minister Qiu''s help~~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu curiously asked, "My help? How can I help?"


    Qin Shuman said earnestly, "Larilo''s important cultists have all been killed or captured by the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department."


    "Now I believe only two are still alive, Zheng Tao and Bai Yu."


    "Bai Yu''s rank is too high, and it would be too much pressure for you to deal with him. But Zheng Tao... I remember his Evil God Cultist identity has not yet been exposed..."


    The relationship between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman was exceedingly close, and since they were both heads of the intelligence system, they often exchanged intelligence during this period.


    So, with just a word from Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately understood what she meant:


    Qin Shuman wanted Qiu Tu to downplay the issue, to find an excuse to release Zheng Tao. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Later, the Security Department would secretly take Zheng Tao away, and then use the Evil God''s Mark on his body to track down Larilo''s whereabouts.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember the promise he made to Tan Huimin.


    Back then, Tan Huimin had consumed lots of his provisions just so he would let Zheng Tao off the hook.


    Qiu Tu''s original plan was to release Zheng Tao once Yan Chen emerged from seclusion and have Yan Chen deal with Zheng Tao.


    Now that the Security Department wanted to take over, it wouldn''t be a problem to hand him over.


    After all... no matter what, he was set to be the good guy!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate to agree, "No problem, I will approve the case today and release Zheng Tao."


    With that, Qiu Tu cautioned, "But you need to be discreet in your actions, don''t sell me out."


    Qiu Tu''s joyful ascent clearly delighted Qin Shuman. She said with a laugh, "Don''t worry, Minister Qiu~~ We''ll be careful not to give you any trouble."


    "Plus, once we really capture Larilo, we will recognize your contributions as well."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but reply with a smile, "Then, that''s great."


    He joked further, "Who knows, during the capture of Larilo, you might even trace the vine to find more people involved with her."


    "After all, she''s facing a life-and-death crisis and is so weak now, she will inevitably choose a place she deems safe."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman covered her mouth and giggled covertly, "All right, all right, any merits will be shared with you."


    After that, the two discussed issues related to the capture of the Evil God for a while longer.

 Chapter 392 - 281: Evil God Capture Plan! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    According to Qin Shuman, the Sanctuary possesses a special Cataclysmic treasure that is designed to bind consciousness and soul.


    Dai Yukang has already rushed to apply to the Sanctuary, and it is estimated that it will arrive within three days.


    The Security Department is preparing to use the Evil God''s Mark on Zheng Tao''s body in the next two days to track Larilo''s whereabouts, gradually narrow down the range, and lock down the target.


    After that, when the Cataclysmic treasure arrives, they will start the operation.


    If they really succeed in capturing Larilo, Dai Yukang will, together with Ye Mingfeng, jointly recommend Qin Shuman''s plan to the higher-ups.


    By then, Xinjie City might just become one of the most important research bases for the Eighth Sanctuary.


    Even just hearing Qin Shuman''s plan, Qiu Tu could imagine how significant this achievement would be.


    He felt that if this plan really came to fruition, Ye Mingfeng might indeed have a chance to become the second Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, and Dai Yukang might become the head of Security Department across the several cities of the state.


    As for Qin Shuman, there was no need to mention her.


    With such a great accomplishment, she might rise to the top in one step, possibly even becoming the head of Xinjie City''s Security Department.


    Originally, Qiu Tu felt that climbing several ranks within a few months was already quite impressive.


    But when he thought of Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, Dai Yukang, and Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu realized... his own progress might actually be a bit slow?


    Searching for a reason, Qiu Tu blamed it all on Yan Chen.


    It must be that bastard Yan Chen holding back his promotion!


    He too should think of a way to plan ahead and see if he could get another promotion upon the establishment of Dongye State....


    Although he began to brew his own promotion plans in his heart, Qiu Tu still didn''t forget the promises he made to Qin Shuman and Tan Huimin.


    So... after hanging up the communicator with Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu immediately called Tan Huimin and, with no expression on his face, handed her a blank interrogation record.


    Tan Huimin was obviously a bit baffled.


    Yet Qiu Tu just looked at her indifferently and said, "You interrogated Director Zheng Tao the other day, but no written record was made."


    "Could you please complete the record?"


    "I will determine Director Zheng''s responsibility based on this record."


    "If he really was coerced and instructed by Bai Yu, and didn''t truly want to frame me, I think... the Inspection Department could at most hand him a suspension for reflection."


    "He could go home tonight."


    Qiu Tu''s words were almost an unmistakable hint: releasing Zheng Tao was possible, but Tan Huimin had to make a false testimony herself.


    How shrewd Qiu Tu was, there was no way he would let such dirty work tarnish his hands.


    That way, if Zheng Tao really got into trouble in the future, it would be Tan Huimin''s fault, not because Qiu Tu released someone privately.


    Watching Tan Huimin go to write the record, Qiu Tu picked up the documents in his hand, ready to deal with the day''s official duties first.


    The Moonlight Lake has been successfully formed; all the work of the Investigation Bureau is now revolving around Moonlight Lake!


    Therefore, all intelligence work from the Political Department is also about Moonlight Lake.


    Qiu Tu took a cursory glance, felt there was not much of interest, and then put it aside.


    He always felt that Moonlight Lake was far less valuable than Larilo.


    If they could really get their hands on Larilo, it might well be worth ten Moonlight Lakes.


    The only pity was that now that Larilo had fallen, nobody knew where she was hiding... even the Security Department had to use special means to find her.


    So, Qiu Tu could only think about it.


    Meanwhile, just as Qiu Tu was contemplating this, suddenly, his communicator rang.


    Qiu Tu picked it up and saw it was a text message from Fang Tangtang.


    This girl, since following Qiu Tu, has actually always been very sensible, hardly ever disturbing him. For her to find him today was almost a rare occasion?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu was also somewhat curious about what the girl wanted with him. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, he opened the message and glanced at it.


    The content of the message was only one line: Qiu Tu, are you coming home for dinner tonight? I specially learned to make milk-flavored buns, and I''ll steam them for you in the evening¡­.


    -------

 Chapter 393 - 282: Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Seeing the somewhat ambiguous text message, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile and shake his head. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Actually, his feelings toward Fang Tangtang had always been a bit awkward.


    After all, she was the first woman in this world to have taken his virginity.


    But...because it was a political marriage, he had always kept a certain distance from Fang Tangtang in his heart.


    To put it bluntly, even Tan Huimin, the beautiful married woman whom Qiu Tu always flirted with and seduced, likely aroused more desire in him.


    After all, this kind of "desire" was much purer, not mixed with any personal gain.


    However...it had to be said that Fang Tangtang was indeed a top-notch girl.


    Exquisite features, a palm-sized oval face, watery big eyes that could capture any man''s heart; and that innocent appearance, childish speech, and just-adult age could effectively arouse a man''s conquering desire.


    And most importantly, her figure that made most girls envious, with E-cup advantages, really made Qiu Tu somewhat unable to stop himself.


    So, every day Qiu Tu was caught in an endless cycle:


    She is a product of political marriage, not pure, just have fun with her¡ªdamn, this is really fun though!


    ¡ªPolitical marriage, political marriage, too complicated background, don''t get emotionally involved¡ªjeez, isn''t she tempting?!


    What''s more interesting is that everyone knew this was a political marriage where interests outweighed emotions, but only Fang Tangtang seemed unaware.


    These days, she really seemed to believe she was in a relationship with Qiu Tu, so she clumsily expressed her love to him all the time.


    Moreover, she might have noticed Qiu Tu''s obsession with her. So Fang Tangtang had also been using this to please Qiu Tu.


    Like the text message today...Fang Tangtang was no little girl; after being nourished by Qiu Tu, how could she not know the hidden meaning of that message.


    Yet she was...using this transparent method to clumsily seduce Qiu Tu, trying to get him to come home.


    That was the reason for Qiu Tu''s amusement.


    However, Qiu Tu had been very busy with work these past two days, and he wasn''t even sure when he''d be able to return.


    Plus, it had been several days since he last saw Shen Lingshuang.


    So thinking of this, Qiu Tu still politely declined the girl''s eager invitation.


    "Tomorrow night," he replied.


    With a simple three words, the girl almost immediately replied, "Don''t work too hard, take care of your health, I''ll wait for you to come home tomorrow night."


    ''Come home...''


    Having lived through two lives, this term had somehow become a bit unfamiliar to Qiu Tu.


    So, he admitted that in that moment, his heart inexplicably seemed to be touched...


    Putting down the communicator, Qiu Tu slightly shook his head and then buried that fleeting emotion deep in his heart.


    Even though his situation was much better now than when he first arrived in this world, it couldn''t be denied that he was still surrounded by crises.


    He didn''t have the time to indulge in romance.


    Women only slowed down the speed at which he drew his gun.


    With that thought, Qiu Tu continued to deal with his work.


    After handling work for more than an hour, Tan Huimin finally returned to Qiu Tu''s office with the revised confession document.


    A married woman always understands men best, so this time when she arrived at the office, her shirt collar was noticeably unbuttoned a little more.


    The already slightly loose shirt revealed much more with a simple bend...


    Somehow, Qiu Tu felt that if Tan Huimin were to serve him, it would likely be very comfortable.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered for two seconds before he reached out to take the confession document from Tan Huimin''s hands.


    He quickly read through the document in his hands.


    The confession detailed the full process of how Zheng Tao claimed to have been coerced by Secretary Bai to frame Qiu Tu.


    At the end of the interrogation record, where the investigator''s signature should be, was Tan Huimin''s name.


    Qiu Tu, with his hand supporting his cheek, pondered for a moment, then pointed to the signature area and said, "To prevent collusion, every interrogation must have two officers present."


    "Add another name."


    Tan Huimin, hearing his words, dug out a pen from the deep cleavage of her blouse, then bent over to ask, "Whose name should I add?"


    Qiu Tu said, "Ji Chen."


    Tan Huimin recalled for a moment, seeming to have some impression of this officer¡ªwasn''t he Yan Chen''s confidant?


    Although she didn''t understand why Qiu Tu wanted to use this name, with her husband''s release only a step away, she obediently took up the pen and signed "Ji Chen" again.


    Even to ensure that the signature didn''t look too obviously false, she deliberately made it a bit more sloppy to differentiate it from her own handwriting.


    After doing all this, Tan Huimin handed the confession document back to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the document, checked it again, then nodded before opening his drawer, taking out his official seal, and stamped it onto the paper!


    With the Deputy Minister Qiu Tu''s official seal stamped on it, the confession document became effective.


    Immediately after, Qiu Tu took out a closing case report and a punishment document, guiding Tan Huimin to fill them all out.


    Once all this was done, Qiu Tu "smack! smack!" stamped his seal twice more and then handed the two documents to Tan Huimin, saying plainly, "It''s all settled. You can take these to release your husband."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, with tears brimming in her eyes, took the documents and bowed deeply to Qiu Tu, "Thank you, sir! Thank you!"


    "Rest assured, once Ah-Tao safely leaves Xinjie City, I''ll make sure to clean myself up and lie down obediently on your bed."


    After saying these embarrassing words, she blushed, turned around, and prepared to leave the office to release Zheng Tao.

 Chapter 394 - 282: Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Just then, Qiu Tu suddenly spoke, "Stop."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Hui Min''s body tensed up, then she slowly turned around, slightly "confused" as to why Qiu Tu would call out to her.


    Then she saw Qiu Tu stand up expressionlessly, walk over to her, and then pulled her into his embrace.


    Tan Hui Min tried to struggle, and even lowered her voice to plea quietly, "Officer, please... not here."


    But Qiu Tu acted as if he didn''t hear, his hand directly reaching under Tan Hui Min''s clothes.


    Tan Hui Min grabbed his hand, her face full of humiliation and anger.


    Yet Qiu Tu unmercifully shook off her hand and reached in. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The next second, Qiu Tu pulled out a small tape recorder from under Tan Hui Min''s skirt.


    The tape in the small recorder was still spinning, obviously still on.


    At the sight of the small tape recorder, Tan Hui Min''s face turned deathly pale. The anger and humiliation on her face vanished.


    Qiu Tu looked at her coldly.


    Then with a "snap!" he threw the small tape recorder onto the ground, shattering it!


    Tan Hui Min, disheveled, now had no courage to speak. All she could do was desperately try to hide the documents in her hands behind her back.


    Qiu Tu looked at her expressionlessly and coldly ordered, "Kneel."


    Upon hearing this, Tan Hui Min, although full of sorrow and anger, eventually knelt down humiliated.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu bent down, touched her fair face, and asked with apparent confusion, "Madam, why do you always like to create complications at the last minute?"


    Kneeling on the ground, Tan Hui Min frantically tried to explain, "It''s not like that, not like that...."


    "I, I just...."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Qiu Tu interrupted, "Just wanted to have a contingency plan? Have something to hold over me?"


    "To prevent me from truly demanding compensation, having something to control me with? Or perhaps... if someone were to investigate this case, you could drag me down with you?"


    Qiu Tu clearly struck a nerve with Tan Hui Min. Her face turned red with exertion, shaking her head repeatedly.


    But by that time, Qiu Tu no longer wanted to hear Tan Hui Min''s explanations.


    He loosened his belt, simply staring at Tan Hui Min, the implication clear as day.


    Tan Hui Min looked up at Qiu Tu with humiliation, her expression changing continuously, but in the end, she bowed her head....


    Half an hour later, Qiu Tu held Tan Hui Min''s heavy Yue Xiong piece and shuddered.


    "Cough cough," Tan Hui Min turned her head, covering her mouth, nearly choking.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu released his hand, giving her a dark, unfathomable glance, then finally buckled his belt and returned to his desk.


    Seeing Qiu Tu let her go, Tan Hui Min finally breathed a sigh of relief, hurriedly got up, and walked towards the exit.


    However, just as she stepped out of the office, Qiu Tu called out to her again, "Madam."


    By now, Tan Hui Min was truly afraid of hearing these two words.


    But when Qiu Tu called her, she had no choice but to stop and stand still.


    Qiu Tu said expressionlessly, "Wait for me under my desk tomorrow morning."


    Tan Hui Min''s face flushed red, her fists clenched tightly.


    But in the end, she just gave an "Mhm" and quickly walked out of the office.


    After the office door slowly closed, Qiu Tu stood quietly for a while, then went over to the shattered tape recorder, picked up its remnants, took out the cassette, tore it up, and threw it into the trash can.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu returned to his desk, pondering the recent events.


    In fact, with his personality, he would not normally let Tan Hui Min off so easily under normal circumstances. But now the overall situation was more pressing; he and Qin Shuman still needed Zheng Tao to investigate Larilo.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked towards the door of the office and softly muttered to himself,


    ''No rush... this piece of meat must be eaten slowly.''


    .....


    With the order signed by Qiu Tu, Zheng Tao was quickly released.


    Since the relationship between the two hadn''t been made public, Tan Hui Min didn''t show much excitement, only her eyes reddening a bit as she looked at him.


    And for some reason, Zheng Tao seemed to be preoccupied with thoughts, just looking down and not even making eye contact with Tan Hui Min....


    After seeing Zheng Tao leave the Investigation Bureau, Tan Hui Min seemed to relax, as if a burden had been lifted from her shoulders.


    She turned and went back into the Investigation Bureau to resume her busy work....


    What she didn''t know, though,


    was that not far from the Investigation Bureau, several military-dressed security officers from the Security Department found Zheng Tao.


    They showed him an arrest warrant signed by Dai Yu Kang, and without even giving Zheng Tao a chance to react, they handcuffed him and stuffed him into the car.


    But Zheng Tao seemed to have anticipated such an event, offering almost no resistance, and was taken away calmly by the Security Department''s people.


    .....


    An afternoon passed in the blink of an eye.


    This afternoon was eerily calm.


    Liu Xiongyuan did not advance to Fourth Order, Yan Chen did not seek revenge on Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, and Ye Mingfeng''s group did not openly search for Larilo....


    The big shots sat down and had a good talk, reallocated the shares of Moonlight Lake.


    Finally, the profit distribution was renegotiated in the ratio of 3:2.5:2.5:2.


    Most notably, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau''s share grew from the original 20% to 30%.


    While both Xinjie City Military Department and Eastern City Investigation Bureau gave up 5% each.


    The reason cited for this concession, of course, was Tang Feifei''s dramatic intervention, which saved Moonlight Lake.

 Chapter 395 - 282: Madam, Kneel Down! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    But in reality, only the higher-ups knew that this was a form of compensation and concession.


    ¡ªYan Chen had already suffered enough, almost to the point of being barefooted; and with Liu Xiongyuan and his two companions stepping on his shoulders to kill Larilo, if Yan Chen didn''t receive any compensation, he might actually flip the table.


    Thus, the benefit division of Moonlight Lake was concluded.


    After clocking out, Qiu Tu didn''t ask his driver to take him home but instead drove himself to the Security Department to meet with Qin Shuman.


    And Qin Shuman showed Qiu Tu how to use Zheng Tao, the Evil God Cultist, to track Larilo in return.


    It was a Cataclysmic treasure known as the "Homologous Compass."


    The function of this Cataclysmic treasure was straightforward; it could target a specific power and then guide the user to the direction of the homologous power.


    Such Cataclysmic treasures were usually utilized for mining veins or searching for precious Cataclysmic Material. But they were also remarkably effective in tracking down Evil Gods.


    Hence, the search team from the Security Department, carrying Zheng Tao with them, began their operation from the center of Xinjie City and started searching outward.


    Using a Cataclysmic treasure for such a search was both tedious and dull.


    Every 1.5 hours, the search team would use the Homologous Compass and then start halving Larilo''s potential range.


    But because Xinjie City was so vast, they only managed to reduce the area to one thirty-second of its entirety after an entire night.


    But let''s not forget, the total area of Xinjie City is a whopping 11,200 square kilometers. Even one thirty-second of it is still 350 square kilometers.


    This search might take an age to complete.


    Finding it extremely dull, Qiu Tu didn''t continue with the operation and, after greeting Qin Shuman, left the Security Department.


    He drove towards Longshan Road.


    After several rounds of security checks, Qiu Tu entered Longshan Road.


    He checked the time; it was already 11 p.m.


    Hesitating momentarily, Qiu Tu ultimately couldn''t bear to disturb Shen Lingshuang, so he turned the car around and headed to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    He arrived at the villa''s courtyard and parked the car.


    A few bodyguards greeted him.


    Recognizing Qiu Tu, they quickly spoke into their walkie-talkies and then hurried back into the darkness.


    Qiu Tu didn''t mind and made his way into the villa.


    The lights on the first floor of the villa were all off. Only the second floor had a faint glow.


    Hesitantly, Qiu Tu ascended the stairs, only to find that the light was coming from the study room on the second floor.


    He tiptoed towards the study, noticing that the door wasn''t completely closed and left a gap about as wide as a fist.


    Peering through the gap, Qiu Tu saw Fang Tangtang, wearing a silk pajama set, sitting uncharacteristically at the study''s desk, reading.


    However, she clearly wasn''t cut out for reading as she rested her cheek on her hand, her little head bobbing, as if she were about to fall asleep at any moment.


    "What''s this girl torturing herself for? She clearly doesn''t want to read, so why force herself?"


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu gently knocked on the door of the study and pushed it open.


    Hearing the knock, Tangtang, drowsy, lifted her head to see Qiu Tu step inside.


    In that moment, she was startled, then her eyes were filled with joy.


    However, it seemed that facing Qiu Tu in person was a different scenario to exchanging messages.


    So instead of being as bold as her texts suggested, Tangtang''s face turned "bright red."


    Then she stood up, head lowered, somewhat awkward and nervous as she said, "Qiu Tu, you, you''re back?"


    --------


    2 Chapters, 10,000 words, haha! Vote for your Monthly Ticket!


    -


    Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 396 - 283: Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    In the dimly lit study, Fang Tangtang with her head bowed looked particularly endearing.


    On her palm-sized, oval face, she wore light makeup. The makeup wasn''t mature but instead gave her eyes and brows an added touch of tempting innocence that made men want to commit a crime.


    She wasn''t tall, only about 1.6 meters, and because she was wearing a silk robe, the shadows on her chest vividly displayed her curvaceous figure.


    Looking at the natural beauty before him, a flash of appreciation crossed Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    He asked softly, "You''re not asleep yet?"


    Fang Tangtang kept her head down, clutching the hem of her nightgown, and then timidly nodded, "I''m having trouble sleeping."


    Qiu Tu made an "Oh?" sound and inquired, "Why can''t you sleep?"


    Fang Tangtang lifted her head somewhat blankly, but upon meeting Qiu Tu''s gaze, she quickly looked away in a fluster.


    Her ears were a bit red, and her voice was as faint as a mosquito''s, "It''s... just a little hard to get used to not having you by my side."


    Qiu Tu, standing at the doorway of the study, smiled and asked insensitively, "I wasn''t by your side in the past, why could you sleep then?"


    Upon hearing his words, Fang Tangtang''s face turned even redder.


    She kept her head down, arguing in a soft voice, "Can being alone and being with someone be the same?"


    "But we are two people now."


    When he heard Fang Tangtang''s confession, Qiu Tu''s heart did not stir much.


    After all, he was past the age of believing in love, but he still smiled, then walked over and took the girl''s hand.


    Sitting down in the chair, he pulled Fang Tangtang onto his lap, wrapped his arm around her slender waist, and then spoke sweet nothings softly, "So, haven''t I come back now?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu turned towards the book on the desk and asked, "What are you reading?"


    Perhaps Qiu Tu''s rare sweet talk had eased Fang Tangtang''s tension, so she relaxed, leaned against Qiu Tu''s chest, and then looked at the book on the desk, quietly saying, "It''s the book you were reading last night, seems to be called ''Existence''."


    "I want to read more of the books you like and understand the things you enjoy. That way, we''ll have topics to talk about in the future."


    The girl''s voice was soft and sweet, spreading gently in the quiet night, very pleasant to the ear.


    "After dinner, I''ve been reading this book."


    "But..." she paused, lightly crinkling her little nose, then said, "I think I might be too dumb. I don''t understand it at all."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He said, "It''s normal not to understand. It''s not the kind of book meant for you."


    "Even I find it very abstruse."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang mustered some rare courage to disagree. She lowered her head, timidly saying, "But... I want to understand you more."


    Seeing the girl unusually insistent on her own, Qiu Tu didn''t dampen her enthusiasm.


    Moreover, the idea of a woman giving charm to the sleeves, reading at night by candlelight, was already a wonderful story in life. So Qiu Tu simply picked up the book "Existence" from the desk, held the girl, and began to read and explain to her.


    In the silent night, in the study under the dim light, a couple immersed in reading appeared extraordinarily harmonious, warm, presenting a sense of tranquil beauty of the passing time.


    Um... except for Larilo still possessing Fang Tangtang.


    Ever since possessing Fang Tangtang last night, Larilo had been quietly hibernating, maintaining her consciousness.


    It was only after Qiu Tu returned home that she began to wake up slowly due to sensing the presence of a Cataclysmic. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Once awake, Larilo also figured out the situation: Qiu Tu was back, Fang Tangtang was wearing a silk nightgown, and she hadn''t slept!


    At that, Larilo was utterly excited!


    She felt it was time for her to regain her strength!


    With Qiu Tu''s vigorous energy and the girlfriends he had everywhere, coupled with Fang Tangtang''s enticing figure, wouldn''t the two of them spontaneously ignite a stormy affair?


    And as long as they started "reproducing," she could draw strength from it and restore her own soul!


    If the two could do it a few more times, perhaps she wouldn''t be so weak anymore.


    So, she waited and waited.


    She waited until Qiu Tu held Fang Tangtang in his arms; waited until Qiu Tu''s hands were caressing Fang Tangtang''s delicate body; waited until Qiu Tu was not prepared to read the book...


    But then... who would have thought, Fang Tangtang actually didn''t agree but instead continued to invite Qiu Tu to read?


    At that moment, Larilo truly felt like she had thrown her back out.


    She was almost going mad.


    She especially wanted to crack open Fang Tangtang''s pretty little head to see what was inside!


    She felt that if she had Fang Tangtang''s figure, she could wear her clothes with the neckline plunging to her navel!


    She would change into eight different outfits a day to seduce Qiu Tu!


    She would make sure Qiu Tu never leaves the bed in this lifetime!


    So, upon seeing Fang Tangtang and Qiu Tu reading by candlelight into the night, Larilo was close to fainting from frustration.


    Just like this, three people, two were reading, one was angry, throughout the long night.


    Until 2 a.m., when Fang Tangtang, tired, fell asleep in Qiu Tu''s arms, did he smile and shake his head before he lifted her in a princess carry and took her back to the bedroom...


    Gently placing Fang Tangtang on the bed, Qiu Tu carefully covered her with a thin blanket and turned off the light.


    Then he walked out of the room, switched on the eavesdropping blocker, pulled out a specially made Communicator, and started a call with Qin Shuman.


    Once the call connected, Qiu Tu also began to inquire, "How much has the search area been narrowed down to?"


    Qin Shuman sounded a bit tired as she said, "It''s down to about 87 square kilometers now."


    "Restricting our speed but mainly it''s the interval time of the ''Homologous Compass'', the speed of defining the regions, and the speed of the cars."

 Chapter 397 - 283: Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    "We must get to the approximate center of an area and control Zheng Tao''s use of the ''Homologous Compass'', then reduce the search range by half based on the direction of the compass needle."


    "During this time, we''ll have to drive and divide up the territory, it''s extremely tedious and troublesome."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s complaint, Qiu Tu chuckled and said, "To make a big accomplishment, you have to deal with tedium and trouble."


    He quickly did the math. "Based on this speed, we should be able to roughly determine Rilo''s location by noon tomorrow at the latest."


    Qin Shuman hummed in agreement, "Six more times, reducing it to about 1.5 square kilometers, should make the search much easier."


    "That would mean about nine more hours, give or take, so around 11 am tomorrow."


    "If the area is unusual, it might take a few more rounds."


    "But at the latest, we should be able to find Rilo by tomorrow evening."


    Qiu Tu hummed in response, then said, "Let''s keep at it."


    Continuing the conversation, they exchanged a few more words. Just then, as if struck by a sudden thought, Qin Shuman spoke up, "Right, I''ve got some intelligence to share with you."


    "To prevent Zheng Tao from contacting Rilo through other means, we specially interrogated him before assigning him the mission."


    "It seemed his mind had already collapsed, so we hardly needed to use any means to get everything out of him."


    "According to what he said, it was three years ago when he first came in contact with Rilo during a mission in what was then the Disaster Zone of Xinjie City."


    "At that time, he came to Xinjie City for a reconnaissance mission. While investigating the local gangs, he became infatuated with a woman."


    "That woman, however, wasn''t very interested in him, so she was always somewhat dismissive."


    "But as a prized talent from the Sanctuary, how could he tolerate such humiliation? Coincidentally, during his investigation, he discovered that the woman''s family had ties to the gangs."


    "So, he used that as a threat to coerce the woman into being with him."


    "But affection is a strange thing. Even by coercing the woman to his side, if she didn''t love him, she still didn''t love him."


    "In his quest to win the woman''s heart, Zheng Tao tried every means to no avail."


    "It was at that time he found out about Evil God Lariro of Xinjie City who had the power to make a woman fall in love with a man."


    "So, he found a way to contact Lariro and obtained two vials of ''Mandragora Love Drug'' in exchange for his ''future offspring'' and ''allegiance''."


    "Then, with the aid of the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' and his relentless efforts, he finally won the woman''s heart."


    "But¡­ as the saying goes, you cannot hide a deed if you don''t refrain from doing it. Others might be blindsided by the woman''s change, but her own family could not be fooled."


    "Suspecting Zheng Tao of using some evil sorcery upon finding the woman''s abnormal behavior, her family threatened to report Zheng Tao to General Ye and representatives from the Investigation Bureau, Yu Zhengyi and Bai Yu."


    "Left with no choice, Zheng Tao took a drastic step; he eliminated the woman''s entire family and set the place on fire."


    "Since the murder and arson took place after a major purge, Xinjie City was very chaotic, so he deceived the woman and the authorities by blaming transient criminals."


    "Afterward, he pinned the crime on a few remaining gang members and closed the case."


    Pausing, Qin Shuman continued, "Who the woman is, I believe you know by now."


    Startled by Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu blurted out without thinking, "Tan Huimin?"


    Qin Shuman affirmed with a hum, "Yes, it''s Zheng Tao''s wife, Tan Huimin." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu rubbed his temples, recalling the information Qin Shuman had provided about Zheng Tao.


    Indeed, Zheng Tao and Tan Huimin met, got to know each other, and fell in love a few years ago when General Ye was clearing Xinjie City. Subsequently, after a purported criminal attack, Tan Huimin''s family was destroyed, leaving her no choice but to return to the Sanctuary with Zheng Tao. (Chapter 225)


    Although Qiu Tu had also found it odd at the time or had suspected Zheng Tao''s involvement, he was biased due to having seen Tan Huimin''s love for Zheng Tao and thought their relationship was genuinely affectionate.


    Little did he expect... there would be such a backstory.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu didn''t know whether to marvel at Zheng Tao''s twisted love for Tan Huimin or to denounce Zheng Tao''s cruelty.


    This man was ruthless to colleagues, subordinates, lovers, and even the family of his lover....


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt somewhat relieved: fortunately, he was accustomed to dealing decisively with enemies.


    Otherwise, had he given Zheng Tao any respite to recuperate, he might have ended up on the radar of a venomous snake.


    After discussing a bit more, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman ended their call.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu''s mind was filled with the image of Tan Huimin. He had truly not expected her story to be as tragic as it was.


    Her family was eradicated by Zheng Tao, and even her sincere feelings were controlled by the Mandragora Love Drug.


    Qiu Tu had experience with the ''Mandragora Love Drug'' and knew how powerful the potion was.


    That''s why, after using it once when he first met Tang Feifei, he never used it again.


    It was because he felt that such a potion twisted a person''s psychology too much, and it would prevent him from discerning whether a woman''s love was because of the potion or for himself....


    ```

 Chapter 398 - 283: Larilo Takes Action (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    And Zheng Tao had actually used two bottles of "Mandragora Love Drug" on Tan Huimin.


    For a moment, Qiu Tu even felt a bit of sympathy for Tan Huimin''s plight.


    He held the communicator, stood by the window in the corridor, and quietly watched the outside night scene for a while, deep in thought...


    He felt, perhaps... Zheng Tao''s death could be of more value.


    After quietly thinking for a while, Qiu Tu turned around and went back to his room. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the room, Fang Tangtang was still sound asleep. Qiu Tu took off his uniform, changed into pajamas, then cuddled up with her, and soon fell into a deep sleep as well.


    But what he didn''t know was that, after he fell asleep,


    the figure of Larilo slowly emerged from Fang Tangtang''s body.


    Larilo looked at Qiu Tu with disbelief, then glanced at the special communicator Qiu Tu had placed on the bedside cabinet!


    Although Qiu Tu had gone outside to make a call and had used an anti-eavesdropping device, but... that device couldn''t block her "consciousness"!


    Therefore, the conversation between Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman was fully overheard by Larilo.


    ''The Security Department has actually controlled Zheng Tao and is using the "Homologous Compass" to track me?!''


    ''Damn it!''


    ''And they''ve already narrowed down the range to a few dozen square kilometers?''


    And thinking about how she obtained nothing tonight and was now too weak to even leave this house.


    For a time, the expression on Larilo''s face was a bit gloomy and indistinct.


    She struggled to think of a solution, thinking about how to break the situation.


    After a moment, her eyes lit up, and she had an idea in her mind...


    The effect of the "Homologous Compass" is to detect "homologous" auras, not to detect "Evil God" auras, so any aura similar to hers would be detected.


    And since she had already separated from Yan Chen''s domain, she could completely plant the Evil God''s Mark onto small insects, birds, or even animals.


    Driving them to scatter around Xinjie City.


    In that case, the "Homologous Compass" would detect her aura in all directions. Wouldn''t that mean they couldn''t narrow down the area, nor catch her?!


    Thinking this, Larilo even felt she was a genius.


    However, while she had thought of a way to solve this crisis, there was still one biggest difficulty unsolved¡ªLarilo had no strength at all at the moment.


    She must let Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang "reproduce" in order to regain some strength and thus be able to plant the Evil God''s Mark...


    For a moment, Larilo looked at the two sleeping figures and really wished she could wake them up and have them perform for her right there...


    ''I must think of a way to get them to "exercise" in the morning...''


    ...


    The next morning.


    Qiu Tu awoke in a comfortable, warm feeling.


    He opened his eyes in confusion, then discovered that his blanket had formed an arc.


    And along with that warmth and comfort, the arc was still moving, almost too much for Qiu Tu to contain himself.


    He lifted the blanket, only to find that Fang Tangtang was actually sneaking an early breakfast.


    This was somewhat unexpected for Qiu Tu.


    After all, although Fang Tangtang had always been quite proactive towards him, she had never done something like this before.


    Even if she wanted to please him, it was in a clumsy way, seducing him.


    Moreover, for some reason, Qiu Tu always felt that this morning, Fang Tangtang seemed a bit different in temperament?


    She seemed to have lost a touch of greenness and innocence, gaining a hint of demonic charm and seduction?


    However, these strange thoughts were just fleeting in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    At such times, how could he think about anything else.


    -------

 Chapter 399 - 284: I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    So Qiu Tu didn''t think much of it and pushed all these strange thoughts to the back of his mind.


    Then he reached out, pressing on Fang Tangtang''s head, hissing as he sucked in a breath of cold air.


    It had to be said, Fang Tangtang did have some talent, although she was a bit clumsy at first and had a strong "teeth texture," but she quickly got the hang of it.


    In this manner, allowing Fang Tangtang to sneak in a few minutes of it.


    Finally, Qiu Tu could hardly contain himself any longer. He pulled back and then lifted Fang Tangtang onto his lap, ready to officially start this morning''s exercise.


    However, he wasn''t sure if it was an illusion.


    Qiu Tu always felt that in that instant, Fang Tangtang''s demeanor changed again.


    She seemed to have reverted from the seductive and enticing state back to that of a green and adorable girl.


    And what was stranger, her eyes looked vacant as if she didn''t know what had happened and there was a lazy feeling as if she had just awakened from sleep...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t care less about all that. He got on top and then prepared to start the morning exercise.


    And it was just at this critical moment.


    Suddenly! There was a flash in front of Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    The next second, lines of prompts appeared in his view!


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, then quickly read through the prompts in front of him!


    "Triggered Crisis ''Lariro''s Revenge''! Generating Crisis Report!"


    "The Evil God Lariro, now only a wisp of a soul and consciousness, has lurked nearby and possessed your concubine, Fang Tangtang."


    "She needs a significant amount of ''Reproduction'' pathway power to replenish her weakened soul."


    "To use the Evil God''s Mark on various small animals to distract the Security Department from chasing her."


    "To contact her sister Zhao Ji after regaining a certain level of strength, and be resurrected!"


    "For this purpose, she had to expend her last bit of strength and, during Fang Tangtang''s deep sleep, manipulate her body to ''serve'' you and stir your desire..."


    "A Deity being forced to serve a mortal. For the proud her, this is almost an unforgivable act!"


    "Coupled with the ''Old Resentment'' of the past, she has decided to seek revenge against you after sufficiently regaining her ''Reproduction'' power and coming back to life!"


    "Therefore, please cautiously provide her with ''Reproduction'' power, ensuring she cannot be revived, or make her give up her grudge against you." Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Otherwise, you would not want to know the consequences of being remembered with hatred by an Evil God....."


    Having read all of the Crisis Warnings, Qiu Tu quickly processed all the information provided by Crisis Intuition with his brain.


    According to the prompts from Crisis Intuition.


    Lariro indeed "lives" on as a wisp of a soul, and her current state is so frail that she is inferior even to ordinary creatures.


    Therefore, in order to regain her strength, she has hidden within Fang Tangtang, his companion, ready to extract the Catastrophe Power from the ''Reproduction'' pathway from both him and Fang Tangtang.


    She originally planned to take her time. However, last night she overheard his talk with Qin Shuman and learned about the Security Department''s intention to pursue her.


    To avoid being captured by the Security Department, she had to restore some strength first, so she had no choice but to "take to the field" herself and seduce him.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hissed, finally realizing: so, it was Lariro who had been ''serving'' him just now?


    Thinking about the Deity who was once so high above, now bending down to serve him, Qiu Tu felt even straighter for a moment.


    And it was because of this service that Lariro developed a grudge against him, intending to kill him once she regained her strength.


    This was probably why ''Crisis Intuition'' did not trigger last night, but did this morning¡ªLariro had no intent to kill him last night, so ''Crisis Intuition'' did not sense the danger.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t care at all.


    Lariro could only seek revenge against him on the premise of regaining her strength! And could Qiu Tu afford her that opportunity?


    Of course not!


    Moreover, thanks to the prompt from ''Crisis Intuition,'' Qiu Tu knew that it was not the case that a single act of ''Reproduction'' with Fang Tangtang would revive Lariro.


    They would have to engage in a significant number of times for Lariro to gradually regain her strength.


    As for Lariro regaining a bit of strength and then implanting the Evil God''s Mark on some small animals to throw off the Security Department''s search... Qiu Tu didn''t care in the slightest.


    What was the search by the Security Department for, if not to find Lariro?


    Now that he had already found her, why should he care about their search?


    What''s most important for him now is: to keep her steady!


    After all, Lariro might be weak now, but she seemed capable of running away.


    With his insufficient strength and inability to see her figure, if she sensed something was wrong, she might just escape right away.


    So, after considering the situation, Qiu Tu decided to continue with the morning exercise.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu "pfft!"... began the morning exercise with Fang Tangtang...


    This way, the morning exercise continued for over an hour...


    In the end, feeling like he had "charged up" Lariro a bit, Qiu Tu finally ended the morning exercise amid Fang Tangtang''s pleas for mercy.


    After the morning exercise, Qiu Tu got up and went to the Shuigu Room to wash up.


    And while showering, Qiu Tu also pondered his next course of action.


    Although he couldn''t see Lariro, Qiu Tu guessed that she must have recovered a little strength by now.


    But this amount of strength should only allow her to plant the Evil God''s Mark on small animals, to distract the Security Department''s pursuit.


    So, there were two options now before Qiu Tu.

 Chapter 400 - 284: I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The first thing is to contact Qin Shuman immediately after leaving home today, and let the Security Department take over Larilo.


    The second is¡­ not to rush to inform the Security Department of Larilo''s whereabouts, but to try to brainwash Larilo, to make her believe in him again.


    Thus achieving the goal of "possessing" her.


    After that, whether it''s about extracting more benefits from her, such as the method to control the Boundless Heart Sea region;


    Or using her as a high-quality bargaining chip to exchange for a promotion opportunity;


    Qiu Tu could make a choice at will¡­


    The sound of "whoosh whoosh" water filled the Shuigu Room, with dense water vapor spreading and gradually obscuring Qiu Tu''s figure¡­


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in the bedroom,


    Larilo''s consciousness was also following her plan, beginning to implant the Evil God''s Mark into some insects.


    While planting the marks, she let out a wickedly charming laugh, ''I originally thought Qiu Tu was all show and no substance, a pretty face with no real skills. But it turns out he''s quite impressive haha.''


    ''In just one hour, the humidity in the bedroom seems to have gone up a notch.''


    ''Tsk tsk.''


    ''It was not in vain that I¡­''


    Grieving about this, and possibly stirred by the memory of her recent "meal," Larilo paused and her face turned green.


    Huffing, she quickened the pace of planting the Evil God''s Marks, and then ferociously muttered in her mind,


    ''Once I regain my power... you will all die!''


    ¡­


    After showering, Qiu Tu went to check on Fang Tangtang and Larilo in the bedroom.


    Fang Tangtang was still asleep, and as for Larilo... she was still nowhere to be seen.


    Qiu Tu didn''t care. He ate breakfast as usual, then left the house and took the car to the Investigation Bureau.


    After arriving at the Investigation Bureau''s parking lot, Qiu Tu didn''t rush upstairs.


    He let the driver go back to the Investigation Bureau, and he himself began patiently waiting.


    He waited for more than ten minutes, estimated the time, and figured it was after the Security Department''s next "shrinking of the perimeter."


    Qiu Tu picked up his specially made Communicator and called Qin Shuman.


    The call connected, and Qin Shuman''s irritable voice came through the speaker, "What do you mean by there appear to be multiple targets?"


    "What do you mean Larilo is everywhere in Xinjie City now?"


    "Are the Cataclysmic treasures broken, or is it your brains that are broken!?"


    "Check the treasures immediately, and report back to me as soon as you have news!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s irritable voice, Qiu Tu gently reminded her, "Shuman, you''re getting flustered."


    Qiu Tu''s words were like a bucket of cold water on Qin Shuman, making her instantly calm down.


    She took a deep breath, apologized to Qiu Tu, and asked him to wait. Then, she apologized to her subordinates and calmly redistributed tasks to handle the emergency.


    After everything was arranged, Qin Shuman picked up the Communicator, her voice tired, and said to Qiu Tu, "Ah... I''ve been up for several nights. I''m not in great shape."


    "I encountered an emergency suddenly and lost my temper. Sorry for making you see that."


    Qiu Tu was never stingy with his affection when a woman needed care, so he reassured her gently, "It''s understandable."


    "After all, you were the one who proposed the ''Evil God Capture Plan.'' The pressure must be huge."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s comforting words, Qin Shuman felt much better.


    She managed a smile on the other end of the call and then said, "Right, did you call me because you have some news?"


    Adding jokingly, "I hope it''s good news you''re about to tell me, not bad news."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu, sitting in the car, laughed.


    He said, "It actually is good news."


    Qin Shuman asked curiously, "Good news?"


    Qiu Tu hummed affirmatively and then said, "You can now submit an application to the Sanctuary to allocate experts, technicians, and third- and fourth-order catastrophe-evolver masters."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman was stunned.


    She reflexively said, "But Larilo hasn''t been found yet."


    She continued, "Qiu Tu, you might not be aware of the current situation. This morning we narrowed down Larilo''s active area to a range of about 6 square kilometers."


    "Just as we were about to shrink it to 3 square kilometers, the ''Homologous Compass'' seemed to have broken. It has started detecting multiple homologous targets."


    "Some of these homologous targets are inside the current perimeter, and some are outside."


    "The farthest trace is even more than ten kilometers away."


    "This is basically telling us that all the efforts we''ve made so far have been in vain!"


    "So, now we can only hope that the ''Homologous Compass'' isn''t broken."


    "Otherwise... our whole plan might be a failure."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu chuckled again and repeated, "What I mean is, you can already apply to the Sanctuary to carry out your plan."


    If Qiu Tu had misspoken just once, it could be an accident. But having repeated it twice, Qin Shuman instantly realized the implication. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Images of Qiu Tu repeatedly turning the tide and making comebacks came to her mind, and she was momentarily stunned.


    After a short while, she ventured, "Qiu Tu... have you found Larilo?"


    Qiu Tu did not directly answer Qin Shuman''s question but said, "Shuman, can I trust you?"


    Qin Shuman was silent for a moment, then said solemnly, "I can only say, I will not betray you."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu then said, "I have indeed found Larilo."


    "But... because it was me who found Larilo, I want to make some changes to your plan."

 Chapter 401 - 284: I Actually and Larilo.....(10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "I would like to collaborate with your Security Department on behalf of the Political Department of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to execute the ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' plan,"


    "Of course, I''m only asking for the name. The specific implementation will still be your responsibility."


    "What I can guarantee is that during your expansion period, Larilo will definitely not return and will not affect your plans."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused before adding, "Of course, once this plan is reported in the name of both of our departments, we will be in this together, like grasshoppers on the same string; it would be impossible for us to intentionally sabotage the plan."


    "Therefore, you can fully trust us."


    When Qin Shuman heard Qiu Tu''s words, there was a long silence on the other end of the phone.


    After a moment, she slowly said, "You... want to use this plan to get promoted again?"


    "Once the ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' plan is approved, Xinjie City will immediately catch the eye of all powers from the Eighth Sanctuary."


    "At that time, various forces and departments will send people over. As the initiators of the plan, both the Security Department and the Political Department will definitely need someone capable of stepping up to take charge."


    "And now, the selection for Head of the Xinjie City Political Department has not been determined. For the Sanctuary to ensure the smooth implementation of the plan, they will send back the other two director candidates, then let you oversee the work."


    "In a situation that may affect the entire Sanctuary, even the human coalition, the position of Head of the Political Department is really inconsequential. The Sanctuary will not be stingy with this arrangement."


    Qiu Tu laughed at Qin Shuman''s analysis and agreed, "Exactly." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Actually, it was you who inspired me."


    "Both General Ye and Director Dai place great importance on this plan, which clearly has a terrifying impact."


    "If this plan can allow the two of them to get promoted, then it should be able to do the same for us."


    "By then, you as the head of the Security Department and I as the Head of the Political Department, wouldn''t that be wonderful?"


    Qin Shuman couldn''t help but laugh at Qiu Tu''s words.


    Perhaps because of "getting back what was lost" with Larilo, her mood had improved greatly.


    She candidly said, "Actually... when I gave you the proposal and got you involved, I did harbor the selfish intention of taking you along for the ride."


    "However, this plan is ultimately under the military, so I couldn''t risk causing internal conflicts and forcefully work with you."


    "To my surprise, just in a day''s time, the situation has completely reversed."


    Qin Shuman pretended to be helpless and said, "I didn''t expect that now Larilo would end up in your hands, and our military would have no choice but to cooperate with you to carry out the plan."


    After finishing, she said, "Then I''ll just...''reluctantly'' discuss it with Director Dai and General Ye. Let''s see if they will agree to your terms?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu said with a laugh, "Then I''d like to ask for your help, Major Qin."


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu put down the special communicator in his hand and took a deep breath, muttering softly to himself, "Done."


    Indeed, Qiu Tu didn''t choose either of the two options presented in the bathroom.


    The former was because Qiu Tu wasn''t willing to just hand over such a great achievement to the Security Department.


    Especially since the Security Department''s contributions were already enough for Ye Mingfeng, Dai Yukang, and Qin Shuman to get promoted.


    The latter was because Qiu Tu wasn''t confident; he didn''t believe he could control Larilo on his own, without any help.


    Furthermore, Qiu Tu''s ultimate goal was [promotion]! It was to increase his power and strength through [promotion]!


    So, in the end, he chose to merge the two approaches, using Larilo as a bargaining chip to negotiate with the military for the right to be named in the plan, in order to seek the position of Head of the Political Department!


    This was the safest choice and the one that best served his interests!


    --------


    Chapter with over 10,000 words, ha! Seek your Monthly Ticket!!

 Chapter 402 - 285: Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Now, this choice had already born its preliminary fruits, Qin Shuman had agreed to Qiu Tu''s plan.


    But... Qiu Tu knew that to ultimately complete this plan, he still had to do a few more things.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu picked up his communicator and dialed Tang Feifei''s number.


    The phone connected, and Tang Feifei''s efficient, chilly voice came through the receiver, "What is it?"


    Given the nature of their relationship, Qiu Tu didn''t need to beat around the bush and he got straight to the point, "Lend me Su Xiaowan for a bit."


    On the other end of the phone, Tang Feifei:.....


    She was silent for two seconds, then said, "Fine."


    "Just don''t break her."


    "She''s just an ordinary person, not a Cataclysmic."


    Qiu Tu:??


    A few minutes later, Su Xiaowan cautiously approached Qiu Tu''s car.


    This girl seemed to be a bit naturally dazed, looking a bit silly and muddled.


    But it was precisely such a girl that Qiu Tu needed.


    So he rolled down the car window, then turned to Su Xiaowan and said, "Can you drive?" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Su Xiaowan nodded.


    Qiu Tu said, "You are now going to pick someone up using the Tang Office car."


    "She''s my friend, a bit introverted."


    "I want you to accompany her today to stroll around Xinjie City, have some fun."


    "If it''s convenient for you, you can also bring her to your home as a guest. Or introduce her to your friends."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Su Xiaowan blinked dumbly, then her face took on an expression of "that''s it?"


    When Tang Feifei had asked her to find Qiu Tu earlier, saying he had a task for her, her expression was full of deep sympathy and pity.


    Honestly, at that moment, Su Xiaowan''s heart truly skipped a beat, worried that Qiu Tu would assign her some dangerous task from the Political Department.


    After all, the Political Department was notorious for being bloody and twisted within the entire Investigation Bureau system.


    And now... that''s it?


    Just to accompany a girl?


    Su Xiaowan breathed a sigh of relief, then snapped to attention with a "smack!", stood straight, and saluted Qiu Tu, "Yes, sir!"


    After giving Su Xiaowan the address and watching her drive away,


    Qiu Tu picked up the communicator again and dialed Fang Tangtang''s number.


    Two minutes later, just having gotten up and eating her meal, Fang Tangtang hung up the phone, her palm-sized face covered in surprise.


    She murmured to herself, "Qiu Tu said... being at home alone is too boring, he wants his subordinate to take me out for a breath of fresh air?"


    Her gaze became tinged with emotion as she softly said, "Mother was right, as long as I am sincere to him, I will always have a place in his heart..."


    With this thought, she felt the food in her mouth seemed much tastier...


    At this very moment, while Fang Tangtang was moved, the Larilo attached to her was also deep in thought.


    ''Qiu Tu... taking his mistress out for a good time?''


    ''Could it be some sort of plot?''


    ''Does he plan to lure me into a trap and then capture me in one fell swoop?''


    At this thought, Larilo felt something was off: if Qiu Tu really wanted to catch her, there was no need to go through so much trouble¡ªsimply surrounding the villa would suffice.


    ''It seems I might be overthinking.''


    ''Qiu Tu must be very satisfied with my... no, with Fang Tangtang''s performance this morning. That''s why he''s giving a little sweetener.''


    Perhaps because she thought again of how she had lost her power and could only bury her head in serving Qiu Tu, Larilo''s expression turned sour once more.


    ''No rush, no rush, once I regain my power, I''ll slice off his iron rod and soak it in wine to drink!''


    Although Su Xiaowan was a bit naturally dazed, she was fairly reliable in handling matters.


    So, without much delay, she drove to Longshan Road, picking up Fang Tangtang and Larilo.


    On the way there, Su Xiaowan had already considered the itinerary.


    ¡ª¡ªFirst, she would take Fang Tangtang to the newly built Xinjie City Garden for a walk; then bring Fang Tangtang home for a meal; in the afternoon, introduce Fang Tangtang to her own girlfriends, have afternoon tea together, listen to music, and read books...


    After all, she had mentally prepared herself on the way over:


    This girl must have a special relationship with Qiu Tu!


    And Qiu Tu, whether in the Investigation Bureau or the military, held an uncommon status! Thus, by extension, this girl''s identity also became extraordinary!


    Therefore, this girl was her God for the day!


    All she did today was for one purpose, which was to make this girl happy!


    Meanwhile.


    While "three" girls were enjoying their leisure time together.


    In the military, the head of the Security Department''s office.


    Qin Shuman had also just reported Qiu Tu''s conditions and thoughts to Dai Yukang.


    After listening to everything Qin Shuman said, Dai Yukang looked at her expressionlessly, then tapped the desk forcefully with his index finger curled inward, "Rain Butterfly!"


    "Is this the result you''ve presented me with?"


    "You pledged with such certainty that the plan would go without a hitch, but Larilo was snatched up by someone else first?"


    As he said this, Dai Yukang spoke gravely, "And why would Qiu Tu know about our Security Department''s plan?"


    "Did you tell him?"


    "Why would you disclose this information to him without authorization?"


    Before meeting with Dai Yukang, Qin Shuman had already thought of the reasons and excuses for this matter.


    So, upon hearing Dai Yukang''s questioning, her expression didn''t change in the slightest.


    She looked Dai Yukang squarely in the eyes and said, "Director, you personally turned Qiu Tu into a spy."


    "He is one of our Security Department''s own."


    At Qin Shuman''s words, Dai Yukang''s expression faltered.


    Then Qin Shuman continued, "Moreover, Qiu Tu also said that as a spy implanted in the Investigation Bureau by our Security Department, the higher his position, the more beneficial it is for our Security Department."

 Chapter 403 - 285: Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "The Security Department should support him on this matter."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Dai Yukang looked at her as if seeing her for the first time, his gaze scanning her from top to bottom. Then, he suddenly laughed.


    That smile contained both relief and appreciation.


    "Rain Butterfly, you''ve made progress recently."


    "It seems the recent cases have been a great training for you. You already have the makings of a Security Department chief."


    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman''s face remained expressionless.


    Her body was still tense, her hands behind her back clenched tightly, so tight that her knuckles were starting to turn white.


    Only she, a direct disciple cultivated by Dai Yukang himself, knew how terrifying Dai Yukang could be.


    He was now merely preoccupied with too many recent matters and had trusted Qin Shuman, his confidant, too much, which is why she was able to take advantage of him slightly.


    If he really were to free up his hands, Qin Shuman felt that there were few in Xinjie City who could play the game of intrigue better than the man before her.


    Even Yan Chen might be slightly inferior...


    So, even though Dai Yukang was now praising Qin Shuman, she still did not dare to take his words for granted.


    She replied flawlessly, "Chief is jesting. I was only conveying Qiu Tu''s words, without adding anything of my own."


    "Moreover, I am your soldier. If you ask me to be chief, I will be the chief, and if you ask me to be a regular commissioner, I will just be a regular commissioner."


    Dai Yukang watched Qin Shuman with a playful eye and then said with a half-smile, "It''s rare for you to be so loyal."


    "Then tell me, now that Qiu Tu has named his price, but I do not want to accept it, what will you do?"


    Qin Shuman didn''t hesitate as she said, "I am the head of the Security Department''s intelligence system! I will spare no effort to dig out Larilo''s whereabouts!"


    Upon hearing this, Dai Yukang said with a smirk, "Then how do you plan to proceed?"


    This time, Qin Shuman hesitated briefly.


    Before she could give it much thought, Dai Yukang said, "As I recall, Qiu Tu stayed in the Security Department reviewing the capturing process of Larilo with you after finishing work last night." S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "He left the Security Department at 10:30 PM."


    "He called you this morning at 9 AM, claiming he had found Larilo."


    "This leaves 10.5 hours in between, most of which were late at night."


    "He didn''t have any Cataclysmic treasures to search for Larilo. He also didn''t previously intend to search for Larilo''s traces."


    "So, I boldly speculate that he probably encountered Larilo on his way home or while at home."


    "He is only a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. He is not yet able to see souls and consciousness."


    "Under such circumstances, the likelihood that he coincidentally encountered Larilo on the road and recognized her is much lower."


    "Plus, he has had multiple contacts with Larilo before. No one knows the exact nature of their relationship, after all, everything is just his side of the story."


    "So... the probability that Larilo sought refuge at his home after her downfall has significantly increased."


    At this point, Dai Yukang''s eyes glittered as he analyzed, "I deduce that Qiu Tu probably didn''t initially plan to share the credit."


    "After watching the search-broadcast, he would have returned home as usual."


    "Then, due to some abnormality with a family member or because of some special Cataclysmic treasure, he discovered that Larilo had taken possession of one of his family members."


    "Larilo''s approach is ''Reproduction,'' and to restore her power, she needs to absorb the Cataclysmic Power of ''Reproduction.'' So if I''m not wrong, it is highly likely that Larilo is hiding among his mistresses."


    Dai Yukang looked coldly at Qin Shuman and said, "Check which mistress''s house Qiu Tu visited yesterday, and we will know where Larilo is."


    Hearing Dai Yukang''s tightly interwoven analysis, Qin Shuman gripped her hands even tighter.


    She had not expected that a simple timeline could yield so much information to Dai Yukang and lead him to make so many deductions.


    She wanted to defend Qiu Tu but knew that the more she said right now, the more mistakes she would make. So, she could only salute and say solemnly, "Yes, Chief!"


    After speaking, she turned to leave.


    However, just as she was about to go, Dai Yukang suddenly spoke again, "With your current skills, can you really control Qiu Tu?"


    Hearing Dai Yukang''s words, Qin Shuman paused in her steps.


    She turned around and saw Dai Yukang shaking his head slightly before taking a sip of water from the cup on his desk.


    "Do you think that what I saw through at a glance, Qiu Tu, with his meticulous mind, wouldn''t have taken measures to cover up in advance?"


    Dai Yukang shook his head as he spoke, "I guess that he must have arranged for her transfer before and after he called you this morning."


    "Furthermore, the person he arranged for the transfer is very likely not one of his confidants but a dark horse or a confidant of an ally."


    "With so many people in Xinjie City, not even knowing who made the transfer, where would one even start to look?"


    At this, Dai Yukang looked up at Qin Shuman and said, "You see, you are still a bit naive in your methods. He has calculated you through and through."


    "In the future, when you truly become the chief of the Security Department, be careful lest he climbs on your head and throws his weight around."


    With that, Dai Yukang, holding his cup, stood up and said, "I''ll go and have a chat with Old Ye."


    "The plans for ''Capturing Evil Gods'' and ''Expanding The Boundless Sea of Heart'' are so grand, letting him have a share of the credit is not too much after all."


    "If he is truly loyal to The military, then supporting him a bit won''t be a loss."


    "But..." at this, Dai Yukang pointed at Qin Shuman out of thin air, "you should know. This person was brought into The military by you. You will be responsible for him."

 Chapter 404 - 285: Shaking the Sanctuary! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Upon hearing this, Qin Shuman nodded emphatically, "Yes, Director."


    Seeing this, Dai Yukang couldn''t be bothered to say more and immediately left the office to discuss the matter with General Ye.


    However, after leaving the office, Dai Yukang shook his head slightly, sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Such talent... If only I could get him transferred to the Security Department.''


    ''That way, I wouldn''t need to let Rain Butterfly take over the Director''s position...''


    Thinking this, a subtle and obscure smile suddenly appeared on his face...


    .....


    The military''s office efficiency was still very high.


    The call Qiu Tu made in the morning received a precise response from Qin Shuman by noon.


    And the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" were delivered to the Sanctuary that very afternoon.


    However, just before the submission of those plans,


    a report drafted jointly by the Eastern City Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City Military Department, and Eastern City Military Department, titled [Operation Report on the Elimination of the Evil God Lariro], was delivered to the Sanctuary in advance!


    This report detailed the entire process of Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Wang Hu eliminating the Evil God Lariro.


    Yet, a slight departure from the facts was that Ye Mingfeng and Wang Hu had ceded virtually all the credit.


    The report showed that the initiator, commander, and main combatant of the operation to kill the Evil God was all Liu Xiongyuan!


    And that wasn''t all; along with the report, samples of resources from the area controlled by Lariro at the Boundless Heart Sea and samples of Lariro''s crystallized Divine Body were submitted!


    In the report, the three expressed their willingness to offer the entire crystallized Divine Body of the fallen Lariro to the Sanctuary!


    For the Eighth Sanctuary, which rarely killed Evil Gods, this was an extremely valuable research material!


    Thus, when the report was submitted, the high-level officials of the Sanctuary were stunned by this news.


    Countless high-ranking eyes turned towards Liu Xiongyuan of Eastern City.


    However, before these officials could digest the news, the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" jointly submitted by Ye Mingfeng of Xinjie City Military Department, Dai Yukang, Rain Butterfly, and Qiu Tu were also delivered.


    If the slaying of a deity merely left the Sanctuary''s high-level officials shocked, at most causing them to see Liu Xiongyuan in a different light and elevate their assessment, without really dwelling on it afterward...


    Then the "Evil God Capturing Plan" and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" truly moved the Sanctuary''s high-ranking officials with significant benefits!


    They planned to exploit the ties between Evil Gods to usurp control of the Boundless Heart Sea, and then to study the region and the Evil Gods!


    The plan was both bold and sensible!


    Most importantly, it had very high executability!


    Especially after learning that the Evil God Lariro had already been subdued, the plan seemed to have a clear path forward, simply awaiting the Sanctuary''s approval to launch into full swing!


    With such immense benefit and merit, even the Sanctuary''s high-level officials were envious.


    After all, if the plan came to fruition, the Eighth Sanctuary might catch up with the progress of other Sanctuaries in a short time!


    This was a plan that could be recorded in the annals of the Sanctuary''s history!


    Therefore, today the high-level officials of the Sanctuary were particularly busy, with meetings following one after another, all focused on discussing Liu Xiongyuan''s elimination of Lariro and the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan."


    The various reports were being turned over and scrutinized by the high-ranking officials.


    Among them, a name called "Qiu Tu" entered the vision of the Sanctuary''s high-level officials for the first time...


    This name was not only one of the four signatories of the "Grand Development Plan" but also appeared in Liu Xiongyuan''s report on the elimination of Lariro...


    The first to notice this was a council member from the Investigation Bureau faction within the Supreme Sanctuary Council...


    ------

 Chapter 405 - 286: Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    Eighth Sanctuary. Supreme Council. "Lin" 1026 Meeting.


    This was a temporary meeting convened by the Supreme Sanctuary Council of the Eighth Sanctuary.


    However, the meeting was of high standard, not only were all the council members present, but several Deputy Speakers, along with the Speaker, Rao Shou, were also in attendance.


    Rao Shou was an elder with a celestial air about him, appearing kind and benevolent, his mere presence imparted a warm and affable feeling.


    But in fact, it was somewhat the opposite. As the representative of the "Iron-Blood Faction" of the Eighth Sanctuary, Rao Shou''s methods were always bloody and ruthless.


    Born in the military, he used to be the largest warlord in the region, commanding a heavily armed and well-equipped force.


    Even after the establishment of the Eighth Sanctuary, when various warlords and armed forces were reformed into the military, he still retained the largest military authority in the Sanctuary.


    And the leaders of various factions within the military were mostly his disciples and grand-disciples.


    For instance, Ye Mingfeng, was a "disciple" he had taken a liking to in recent years.


    This was a true champion who, with his own strength, impressively commanded the respect of other influential figures.


    Sitting beside Rao Shou were five Deputy Speakers, representing the other five major factions of the Sanctuary: the Fengtian Faction, Free Democracy Faction, Local Armed Alliance, Academic Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    These five factions held most of the power in the three major institutions of the Sanctuary. It was their cooperation, compromise and competition with each other, that had allowed the Eighth Sanctuary to develop rapidly in just over a decade.


    Among them... Wang Guochuan, the leader of the "Reformist Faction" whom Qiu Tu had met before, was seated in the last position among the Deputy Speakers.


    The atmosphere during the meeting was slightly different from that of previous ones, which always seemed tense and ready for conflict.


    But this time, most were engrossed in studying several reports in their hands and occasionally offering their own views, providing new ideas for others.


    For example, a council member from the military''s "Iron-Blood Faction" openly praised the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" submitted by Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang.


    He acclaimed it as one of the most valuable plans for the Eighth Sanctuary in recent years.


    Similarly, an "Reformist Faction" member from the City Hall lauded the feat of Liu Xiongyuan commanding and slaying Larilo.


    Claiming it to be the most outstanding combat plan of the Eighth Sanctuary in the past two years.


    Of course, in addition to praising individuals from their own factions, they also discussed the authenticity and feasibility of these reports and proposals.


    The outcome of the discussions was, of course, that the reports were genuine and the proposals were feasible.


    Some members expressed concerns that the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" might be too aggressive, especially since the true intentions of the Evil God had not been verified. If they entered the "Boundless Heart Sea" rashly, it could lead to disastrous losses.


    But... opportunity always comes with risks, so even though others shared these concerns, in the end, they felt that such a once-in-a-lifetime chance should not be missed.


    The Speaker and the five Deputy Speakers listened quietly to the council members'' discussions throughout.


    But judging by their consistently unopposed demeanor, they seemed inclined to proceed with the plan.


    So, by the end of the meeting, the members'' discussions had shifted from the feasibility of the plan to the idea of inviting some experts, and having Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang give a remote presentation of the entire plan, before finally deciding on this "Grand Development Plan."


    At that moment, a member from the Investigation Bureau''s "Academic Faction," noted a blind spot in several reports.


    He pointed to the name "Qiu Tu" that appeared several times in the reports, then said, "I think it''s fine for Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang to explain the plan to us... "


    "But what about inviting Qiu Tu to share his thoughts as well?"


    "I just checked his identity. He is a local, born and bred in Xinjie City, and became an investigator when Xinjie City was established."


    "In just a year, he advanced rapidly and eventually became the Deputy Director of the Political Department."


    "And in several reports, both Liu Xiongyuan and Ye Mingfeng have mentioned him."


    "If time allows, perhaps we could let him share his opinions as well."


    Most council members paid little attention to the suggestion.


    After all, a Deputy Director from the ordinary city''s Investigation Bureau Political Department was too far removed from their ranks, and with everyone''s busy schedules, finding the time to listen to Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang''s reports was already commendable.


    Thus, the suggestion was quickly passed over. The council members turned their attention back to the "Boundless Heart Sea Development" plan.


    However, what the members present failed to notice was that when the "Academic Faction" member mentioned the name "Qiu Tu," two Deputy Speakers seated in the front row exhibited contemplative expressions.


    They continued listening to the members'' discussions while skimming through the reports, pausing at the parts mentioning the name Qiu Tu.


    Among these two Deputy Speakers, one was Elder Wang Guochuan, the "Reformist Faction" leader whom Qiu Tu had previously met.


    The other was... Tang Xingyun, the leader of the "Fengtian Faction".... S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Meanwhile, as the temporary meeting of the Supreme Sanctuary Council proceeded apace.


    Qiu Tu was not idle either.


    After learning that Ye Mingfeng and Dai Yukang had agreed to collaborate, he eagerly headed to the Security Department to claim a vial of the Cataclysmic Potion.


    The name of this Cataclysmic Potion was "Spiritual Sense Sharpening," designed to greatly enhance one''s Spiritual Perception, allowing one to sense danger in advance or detect the Power of Change.


    ```

 Chapter 406 - 286: Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    The primary function of this bottle of Cataclysmic Potion is actually to help ordinary people sense the Power of Change, making it easier for them to awaken and become Cataclysmics.


    However, if a Second Order Cataclysmic drinks it, they will possess effects similar to those of a Third Order Cataclysmic, such as seeing "spiritual bodies," "souls," and "consciousnesses."


    Before the Cataclysmic treasures that can imprison souls and consciousnesses arrive in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu must stabilize Larilo in the coming days.


    So, being able to see Larilo''s figure and prevent her from escaping without Qiu Tu noticing is the first step.


    As for the second step... Qiu Tu had already planned it long ago...


    ...


    At 9 o''clock in the evening, after a hard day''s work, Qiu Tu returned to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang, bringing Tan Huimin with him.


    By this time, Fang Tangtang had already come home.


    Having spent the day with Su Xiaowan, her mood was noticeably good.


    So she hummed a tune while steaming milk-flavored buns for Qiu Tu.


    Possibly possessing a talent in cooking, Fang Tangtang was able to steam the buns and simultaneously stir-fry two dishes at the same time.


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin entered the villa, what greeted their eyes was Fang Tangtang, wearing an apron and busily multitasking in the kitchen.


    Seeing the adorable little chef before her, the already strained Tan Huimin''s expression soured further.


    She snorted lightly, then said, "You beast."


    Qiu Tu gave her a puzzled look but couldn''t be bothered to engage with her.


    Ever since Qiu Tu had released Zheng Tao, who then disappeared, Tan Huimin had been frantic.


    She repeatedly dialed Zheng Tao''s communicator and searched everywhere for him.


    After failing to find Zheng Tao, she kept calling Qiu Tu incessantly, but he had no time to deal with her last night.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu went to work today that Tan Huimin finally caught up with him.


    However, before she got the chance to ask where Zheng Tao went, Qiu Tu told her directly: He was prepared to tell her a secret about her and Zheng Tao.


    Initially, Tan Huimin did not want to engage with Qiu Tu, but since he claimed the secret was related to Zheng Tao''s disappearance, her curiosity was piqued, and she was forced to follow Qiu Tu to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    Having taken the Spiritual Sense Sharpening Potion on the way, Qiu Tu sat at the dining table and stealthily glanced at Fang Tangtang.


    Indeed... after enhancing his Spiritual Perception, Qiu Tu could finally see Larilo.


    Her Spiritual Body was still dressed in a long black dress.


    The dress clung to her delicately shaped body, outlining her near-perfect curves.


    Walking barefoot, her pale feet glowing like jade, she quietly clung to Fang Tangtang, and despite being weakened, her crimson eyes still gleamed with malice and mockery...


    To avoid detection, Qiu Tu averted his eyes after glancing at Larilo and then turned toward Tan Huimin.


    Perhaps due to Zheng Tao''s disappearance and the loss of her only support, Tan Huimin seemed ready to give up.


    She scoffed with a "heh" and then said, "You''re about to die, yet you''re still keeping a concubine in a gilded house."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu gave her a glance and asked, "About to die? What do you mean?"


    Tan Huimin coldly responded, "It seems you are really out of the loop now."


    "Director Yan held a high-level meeting today, and the first thing he did was to freeze the personnel appointments from this period."


    "Those appointments that have been concluded will continue for the time being, but those that haven''t will be suspended."


    Continuing, Tan Huimin added, "Moreover, it''s obvious he''s targeting just you and Director Tang."


    "As for Director Yu, Minister Shi, and even some neutral agents and section chiefs whose promotions he hasn''t suspended but allowed to remain in effect."


    Tan Huimin commented, "He''s pulling in one group and hitting another."


    "By not changing other people''s appointments, he can minimize the impact, and when the time comes to make a move against you, it will be exceedingly convenient."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly upon hearing this. Tan Huimin wasn''t lying; he also had heard about the meeting.


    But he wasn''t concerned. After all, his "battlefield" was now in the Sanctuary, not Xinjie City. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If he could sort out the "battlefield" of the Sanctuary, then a small Xinjie City would naturally be no challenge at all.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu did not continue the topic, instead saying, "Madam Zheng, I think instead of worrying about me, you should worry about yourself."


    "The reason I had her come to my house is not for anything else, but because I''m worried about something happening to you."


    With that, Qiu Tu took out an envelope and handed it over to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin, puzzled, took the envelope, opened it, and began to read.


    Qiu Tu didn''t disturb the beautiful widow but stood up to go to the kitchen.


    The envelope contained Zheng Tao''s confession about using the Mandragora Love Drug to control Tan Huimin and slaughtering her entire family, a document that Qiu Tu had asked Qin Shuman to photocopy that day.


    There were two purposes in handing over this confession to Tan Huimin. The first was that Qiu Tu felt Tan Huimin''s fate had been too bitter, and she deserved to know the truth.


    The second purpose was... to deceive Larilo, to stabilize her.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu rarely showed his gentle side.


    He went to the kitchen, then walked up behind Fang Tangtang and gently embraced her.


    Perhaps not expecting Qiu Tu to suddenly show her such affection, Fang Tangtang''s palm-sized oval face blushed "with a swell" of red.

 Chapter 407 - 286: Tricking Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She panicked, not knowing where to put her hands, her large eyes twinkling and already misting over with a thin layer of moisture.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "What''s the matter? Not quite used to it?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang nodded timidly and then said in a low voice, "Yes...it''s a bit."


    After speaking, perhaps worrying that Qiu Tu might misunderstand, she quickly added in a low voice, "But I like it."


    This girl was always like this: clearly timid, but could boldly express her feelings at certain critical moments.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gently stroked Fang Tangtang''s hair, then smiled and said, "That''s good if you like it."


    After he finished speaking, Qiu Tu pointed at Tan Huimin, who was in great shock in the dining room due to that confession, and then asked, "Aren''t you curious about who she is?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang''s eyes, watery as they were, dimmed a bit.


    She said timidly with her head down, "It''s okay, no matter who it is... it doesn''t matter."


    Fang Tangtang might not ask, but Qiu Tu had to say!


    If he didn''t, how could he coax Larilo, and how could he turn Larilo into his own shape?


    Thinking that, Qiu Tu then began to explain, "She is the wife of a colleague of mine."


    "In order to get her, my colleague worshipped an Evil God and then obtained two potions from that Evil God. He used them on her, controlling her."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s explanation, Fang Tangtang felt a bit dizzy. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Clearly, she, who had no idea about Supernatural Power or Evil Gods, was a bit lost in Qiu Tu''s words.


    So, she asked weakly, "Evil God? Potion? It can control... people?"


    Seeing her cute reaction, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded, then said, "Yes, you heard right. That''s how it is."


    Although she might still not fully understand what Qiu Tu meant, Fang Tangtang timidly asked, "So... that Evil God is bad, right?"


    Upon hearing Fang Tangtang''s question, Qiu Tu secretly gave a thumbs up inside: Just as expected of my little sweetheart, what a great question!


    Thinking that, Qiu Tu quickly put on a serious face and said, "No. I think that Evil God is good."


    Fang Tangtang: ???


    At this point, Fang Tangtang was completely confused.


    And at this moment, Qiu Tu timely explained, "One potion can both cure and kill, depending on the dosage."


    "If a small amount of that potion is used, it can enhance affection between men and women, stimulate desires between them, and make married life better."


    "And my colleague was clearly abusing the drug. It''s not the fault of the Evil God who created the potion."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, and then with a profound look, continued, "And... I have actually had dealings with that Evil God."


    "I think she''s a good person...God."


    "Not only is she beautiful, with a good figure, a nice personality, but she''s also been steadfast in her own way, not giving up or compromising for decades."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu deliberately expressed with excitement, "She just wants everyone to be able to reproduce whenever and wherever they want, what''s wrong with that!"


    "Why won''t Sanctuary, the Security Department, just leave her alone!"


    Continuing, Qiu Tu said, "Even if we take a step back and say she might be a bit bad."


    "But... she''s so beautiful, how bad can she really be?"


    Fang Tangtang: ??


    This time, Fang Tangtang was genuinely baffled.


    She always felt like there was something not quite right about what Qiu Tu was saying, but she couldn''t pinpoint the issue.


    It just seemed... somehow illogical, or morally off.


    But what she didn''t know was... at this moment, as she listened to Qiu Tu, although Larilo, who was possessing her, was trying hard to control herself, she couldn''t keep the corners of her mouth from turning up!


    ------

 Chapter 408 - 287: Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Women are a rather miraculous creature.


    They inherently like to be complimented and praised.


    Moreover, no matter the identity of the person giving the compliment, or what their relationship is. Anyway, as long as it''s not someone they "despise", they tend to enjoy it.


    Even... praise from an enemy can heighten their sense of achievement.


    So even though Shuman had already categorized Qiu Tu within the "enemy" camp, hearing him compliment her beauty, good body, and personality, Larilo still felt truly exhilarated from the bottom of her heart!


    However, although she felt great inside, Larilo still hadn''t lost her reason.


    She keenly sensed something was off: What was Qiu Tu up to with this seemingly random praise?


    ''Has he discovered me?''


    At that thought, Larilo felt it was somewhat unlikely.


    The reason remained the same: If Qiu Tu had discovered her, he could have simply turned her over to the Security Department or captured her. There was no need for such coyness.


    As for whether Qiu Tu or the Security Department might possibly not possess Cataclysmic treasures capable of capturing Evil Gods, she considered that possibility as well.


    Larilo thought that given her value, once her presence was detected, the Sanctuary would definitely send Cataclysmic treasures capable of Capturing Evil Gods right away.


    Furthermore... she felt that with Qiu Tu''s shrewdness, if he had discovered her, but didn''t have the Cataclysmic treasures for capture, he would likely maintain the status quo and hold on to her.


    He wouldn''t be like now, deliberately praising her and attracting her attention.


    So... with that in mind, Larilo thought... perhaps Qiu Tu was genuinely praising her from his heart?


    ''It''s confusing...Let''s see how it goes.''


    With that thought, Larilo didn''t rashly try to escape but continued to possess Fang Tangtang, quietly listening in on their conversation.


    All of Larilo''s emotional fluctuations were almost entirely within Qiu Tu''s view.


    Seeing that his sudden praise didn''t scare Larilo into running away, Qiu Tu smiled stealthily to himself: Success...


    The 36 strategies for dealing with women, [Testing the Boundaries].


    In the realm of scams or the "player", there''s a law: cast a wide net, but focus on what you catch.


    Many people think this wide casting is about asking out every girl they see, or flattering them, which is a big mistake.


    The most crucial point of this kind of net-casting is testing with very basic conversation tricks.


    Smart girls/targets, upon seeing these tricks, have already directly passed them by. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Those left behind are often the girls and targets who are easily deceived.


    This is why after some frauds or players are exposed, countless people wonder how such crude tricks can deceive anyone?


    And "Testing the Boundaries", this strategy for dealing with women, follows the same principle.


    Use relatively simple conversation tricks to probe the "target''s" current state.


    If the target gets scared off, that''s fine... other remedial actions are waiting for her afterwards.


    But if the target accepts this probing, it actually reveals that she is now in a state that can be "hooked".


    The reason Qiu Tu dared to use such an aggressive method was that after forging a cooperation with the Security Department, Qin Shuman had already handed over the control of a 30-person surveillance team to him.


    So, outside of Longshan Road, Qiu Tu had already laid a trap; even if Larilo got startled, she wouldn''t be able to escape and would still be in the palm of Qiu Tu''s hand.


    With the probing now over, Qiu Tu felt assured. He could finally proceed to the third step of his plan.


    Looking at Fang Tangtang, whose eyes were almost spiraling, wearing a baffled expression, Qiu Tu''s acting skills exploded. He chuckled self-deprecatingly and said, "Alright, I know you''re not interested in this topic and don''t understand it."


    "You go ahead with your work, I''ll check on my friend."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu made as if to leave.


    Indeed, just as Qiu Tu expected, Fang Tangtang became anxious at the prospect. She quickly reached out and grabbed Qiu Tu''s hand.


    Possibly realizing that such a move was too bold, she immediately let go of Qiu Tu''s hand after grabbing it.


    Then she timidly said, "I''m not uninterested. I''m very interested."


    After speaking, she even turned around and turned off the stove, showing her readiness to listen to Qiu Tu''s speech. She then voluntarily brought the conversation back to the topic,


    "Qiu Tu... are you and that Evil God... um, Lord Evil God very close?"


    Qiu Tu was aiming for just this effect.


    It would be too fake if he initiated the conversation, but if Fang Tangtang directed the topic, it would seem much more real.


    So, hearing Fang Tangtang''s question, Qiu Tu showed a thoughtful expression.


    After a moment, he said earnestly, "Tangtang, you''re my woman, right?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s straightforward words, Fang Tangtang blushed and nodded.


    Only then did Qiu Tu say, "Actually, we''re not close."


    Fang Tangtang: ??


    After that, Qiu Tu added, "At most, we can be considered to have a spiritual connection."


    Qiu Tu, with a hint of reminiscence, said, "The first time I knew about her was when investigating a case."


    "The perpetrator was a follower of hers. So, I voluntarily let her plant the Evil God''s Mark on me, and then I met her in a dream."


    "Later, we each had our own schemes, but ultimately we didn''t interfere with each other."


    "At the time, she joked that if she established herself in the real world, she would make me Archbishop."


    "And I joked that I wanted to be the Pope."


    Fang Tangtang, with her beautiful oval-shaped face full of seriousness, listened very attentively.


    The Larilo possessing her did the same...


    Qiu Tu continued, "Afterward, when the case ended, we actually didn''t have much to do with each other."

 Chapter 409 - 287: Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu pointed to the black uniform on his body and said, "You see, I''m from the Political Department, I''m not in charge of cases related to the Evil God."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu mention this "key information".


    Fang Tangtang, who had no understanding of the powers of the Investigation Bureau or The military''s various departments, was utterly confused but pretended to understand, timidly nodding her head.


    However, Qiu Tu''s words were obviously not meant for her, but for Larilo, who was attached to Fang Tangtang.


    Sure enough, when Larilo heard Qiu Tu say that, her eyes suddenly changed, pondering something.


    Qiu Tu spread his hands and then continued, "But, that Evil God seems to have fixated on me, constantly pestering me."


    Larilo: Hmm....


    Fang Tangtang continued to be confused.


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "She wanted me to spy on a top-secret piece of information for her."


    "But she obviously overestimated me. How could I have access to that?"


    "Later on, she encountered a difficulty. She was trapped by a powerful expert."


    Fang Tangtang understood this part, so she asked with her big watery eyes full of curiosity, "And then?"


    Leaning against the stove, Qiu Tu said indifferently, "And then... that expert just so happened to have a grudge against me."


    "To help her, as well as myself, I made contact with her."


    "She of course actually wanted to deceive me, asking me to help her call for external support."


    Qiu Tu let out a scornful laugh, "I''m not stupid. With my special identity, how could I possibly cooperate with her, or help her?"


    Larilo''s "fists" clenched!


    But just then, Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, "But actually... I still wanted to save her."


    "So, afterwards, I set up a huge trap. I wanted to break that expert''s hold on her."


    "Only, breaking that hold would require the sacrifice of something she had been after all along (Moonlight Lake)."


    Fang Tangtang timidly asked, "What thing?"


    This time Qiu Tu shook his head, "It''s confidential. Can''t say."


    Qiu Tu wouldn''t tell, but Larilo was already deep in thought: Moonlight Lake?


    Sure enough, at this moment, Qiu Tu added, "That thing happens to be significantly related to that expert."


    "Once destroyed, that expert could not escape the blame."


    "So, I tricked that thing into being activated early, forcing the expert to choose one of two options."


    "Fortunately, the expert indeed chose to protect that thing and gave up keeping her imprisoned."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, "And to let her understand my complex intentions, I purposely set the item''s activation time on the same day I had deceived her." (Chapter 267)


    Here, Qiu Tu laughed at himself, "It''s a pity... she seems to have no idea of my good intentions, nor does she know what I''ve done for her...."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, both Fang Tangtang, who was completely unaware of the story, and Larilo, who knew the story but understood it in a way completely different from Qiu Tu, fell silent...


    Fang Tangtang fell silent because: her beloved man was sharing his past with another girl in front of her, causing her heart to inexplicably feel a bit sour.


    She actually felt very wronged at this point, yet didn''t dare to express her feelings...


    Meanwhile, Larilo was silent because... this is not how the story goes, is it?!


    Was there such an ambiguous and positive relationship between her and Qiu Tu?


    And Qiu Tu had been quietly doing so much for her behind her back?


    Was he a "loyal minister"?


    Larilo tried to recall her past interactions with Qiu Tu and then compared them to what Qiu Tu had said.


    It seemed... possible?


    Especially, that sudden outbreak at Moonlight Lake, Yan Chen was forced to release his Domain, allowing her to escape.


    Larilo had always felt it abrupt.


    But since she encountered an ambush later, she had speculated it to be a significant conspiracy from either Yan Chen or Qiu Tu.


    Now it seemed... that Qiu Tu had actually freed her from the crisis?


    And the ambush that followed was an accident?


    Thinking this way, it did seem reasonable...?


    Bullshit!


    Larilo was almost going crazy!


    She felt that the events were not as Qiu Tu described.


    Qiu Tu might have truly rescued her from Yan Chen, but the ambush that followed had to be arranged by Qiu Tu!


    Otherwise, how could it be such a coincidence that three Peak Third Order Cataclysmics appeared?!


    Do they think that Peak Third Order Cataclysmics are as common as cabbages?!


    So, for a moment, Larilo felt extremely angry!


    She felt like a miserable woman who had been dumped by a scumbag man, yet the scumbag boasted everywhere about how much he loved her!


    The key point was, she couldn''t even refute it!


    How could she argue? She couldn''t just pop out and explain to Fang Tangtang, could she? Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, the more she thought, the angrier she got.


    However, after getting angry, she also pricked up her ears, wanting to continue listening to what Qiu Tu would say next.


    To see if he would explain the ambush she encountered.


    But who would have thought that Qiu Tu, this scoundrel, stopped discussing the topic right there.


    This was simply arousing Larilo''s curiosity: was Qiu Tu putting on an act of deep affection in front of his "current girlfriend"?


    Or... was there some misunderstanding, and she was misjudging Qiu Tu?


    For a moment, Larilo felt as if a cat''s claws were scratching at her heart, making it itch!


    All the changes in Larilo''s expression were caught in the corner of Qiu Tu''s eye...


    He kept his face expressionless, but his heart was blooming with laughter.


    ''Hooked!''


    The reason he went through so much trouble today was actually twofold.

 Chapter 410 - 287: Larilo: Qiu Tu is a Jerk! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The first goal was to tell Larilo that, actually... there might be more to this than meets the eye. That she might be a "loyal minister".


    Having planted this impression in Larilo''s heart, many of her future plans would be easier to execute.


    The second goal was... to pique Larilo''s curiosity. Indeed, the recent events had a "hidden truth", but what that was, he wouldn''t tell her.


    It was all about baiting Larilo...


    About her biggest secret downfall, Qiu Tu didn''t believe he couldn''t hook Larilo with it.


    When it came to grasping the hearts of women, Qiu Tu was getting more and more adept.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, who had perfectly completed his mission, also left the kitchen with a pretense of melancholy afterward.


    He left behind an even more melancholic Larilo, and... Fang Tangtang.


    Possibly troubled by Qiu Tu''s story about his "ex-girlfriend", the little cook Fang Tangtang stood there with her head lowered, almost not wanting to cook anymore...


    She glanced at Qiu Tu several times, wanting to talk more with him, but she lacked the courage to do so.


    And thinking of how Qiu Tu still hadn''t had his dinner, in the end, she could only suppress her discomfort and silently started cooking for him again...


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had stepped back into the living room.


    There, Tan Huimin, having finished reading all the documents and testimonies, was completely devastated.


    Her usually gentle and dignified makeup and hair were now a mess, as if she had just been ravished by Qiu Tu.


    Her eyes were vacant, unfocused as she stared at the wall in front of her, her luscious lips parted, her body trembling uncontrollably.


    But when she heard Qiu Tu''s footsteps, she snapped back to reality as if she had found an outlet for her anger, and with bloodshot eyes, she screamed at Qiu Tu, "Impossible! This is false! All of it is fake!"


    "You fraud! Scum!"


    "Smack." Qiu Tu took out his gun and slammed it coldly on the table.


    Tan Huimin''s voice stopped abruptly.


    Facing the beautiful young lady in front of him, Qiu Tu didn''t need to be as careful as he was with Larilo.


    So when it''s time to be tough, he''s tough.


    "Who allowed you to go crazy? Who do you think you are talking to?" Qiu Tu said coldly, looking at Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin took a deep breath but still didn''t have the courage to continue her outburst.


    After all, Qiu Tu was now one of the forty most powerful people in Xinjie City.


    Just like Yan Chen and Jia Shu before him, he could kill a Second-Class Investigator and wouldn''t even need to write a report.


    If he killed her, she would just be dead... S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Facing life and death, even the maddest woman would calm down. They went mad only because men tolerated them.


    And now, seeing Tan Huimin had calmed down,


    Qiu Tu snorted coldly.


    He wasn''t the type to abandon allies once they had outlived their usefulness, he had already planned a "compensation" after using Tan Huimin tonight.


    So he said, "Leave the villa now. Go outside to the courtyard. The Security Department''s personnel will take you to see your husband."


    "Whether it''s true or false, just ask him directly." Qiu Tu finished speaking, signaled briefly, then turned and left the living room without any reluctance.


    He was very busy tonight!


    Apart from deceiving Larilo and revealing the truth to Tan Huimin, he still had to lay the groundwork for his path to "Head of the Political Department"!


    In recent times, Qiu Tu was no longer a political novice.


    He knew full well that the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" was just a stepping stone, an opportunity.


    But it was not the determining factor for victory.


    After all, he was only a co-initiator of the plan, not the main person in charge.


    People like that could be replaced at any time.


    Therefore, he also had to forge relationships with the higher-ups of the Sanctuary!


    ------


    Twenty-thousand words in Chapter 2, ha! Vote for the Monthly Ticket! I''ll continue with ten thousand words tomorrow! Oh, it should be today actually... another chapter at 4 a.m., ha.

 Chapter 411 - 288: Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As for making connections with the upper echelons of which Sanctuary?


    Qiu Tu had already thought of someone ¡ª Elder Wang.


    In the last few days, he had learned about the faction distribution in the Eighth Sanctuary from Tang Feifei.


    According to Tang Feifei, the Eighth Sanctuary had only been established for about a decade, and it was the prime time for faction integration and division.


    Inside the three major institutions, there were over a dozen factions, large and small. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The largest ones included six: the Iron-Blood Faction, Fengtian Faction, Free Democracy Faction, Local Armed Alliance, Academic Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    Among them, the Iron-Blood Faction was the largest faction in the Eighth Sanctuary, headed by Speaker Rao Shou, with its main influence within the military.


    The middle and upper ranks of the Iron-Blood Faction mostly came from the military. They were either former subordinates of Rao Shou or military leaders and warlords with good relations with him.


    Thus, they held the most formidable armed forces and troops of the Eighth Sanctuary.


    The second-ranking was the Fengtian Faction. The name "Fengtian Faction" comes from the former location of the Eighth Sanctuary, "Fengtian City."


    This faction had a regional character, primarily consisting of three major political families surrounding Fengtian City: the Tang Family, Zhou Family, and Song Family.


    These three political families were centuries-old before the Cataclysm, powerful in their own right. Although they lost a significant portion of their power due to the Cataclysm, they still had a wealth of talented individuals, and their followers were also exceptionally capable.


    Initially, the Eighth Sanctuary was established with Rao Shou as the framework, and these families as the flesh and blood.


    Hence, their influence spread across various departments in City Hall and the Investigation Bureau.


    And Tang Feifei was the legitimate descendant of this faction.


    The third major power was the Academic Faction, which could be considered a foreign faction.


    During the formation period of the Eighth Sanctuary, the Third, Sixth, and Seventh Sanctuaries all provided certain support.


    The most significant support was helping to establish a comprehensive talent system and training institutions, namely The Eighth Sanctuary Military Academy.


    Officers who came from the Military Academy naturally carried the traits of this faction, such as Huang Shangzong, Yan Chen, Jia Shu, Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin, all belonged to this faction.


    Due to its training mechanisms, the main influence of the Academic Faction lay within the Investigation Bureau and the military.


    The fourth major power was the Local Armed Alliance.


    Though the establishment of the Eighth Sanctuary was dominated by major warlords like Rao Shou, it also embraced several medium and small armed forces.


    To avoid being swallowed up by Rao Shou, they spontaneously formed a tight alliance and, with support from the Third Sanctuary, they gained a firm foothold in the Eighth Sanctuary.


    In the fourth year, they successfully obtained a Deputy Speaker position, securing their own influence.


    The fifth and sixth major factions differed from the previous four.


    The first four factions included camp-based and region-based factions, while the fifth and sixth were ideological factions:


    The Free Democracy Faction and the Reformist Faction.


    The former was founded by a figure of substantial influence before the Cataclysm.


    He was one of the founders of the Eighth Sanctuary, advocating for the restoration of pre-catastrophe free democracy, which is ¡ª universal suffrage.


    The Free Democracy Faction hoped to grant every adult citizen of the Sanctuary the right to vote, unrestricted by status, gender, or wealth scale.


    They demanded the enactment of laws to protect the democratic nature of the Sanctuary and limit the power of the higher-ups.


    The latter (Reformist Faction) was established by Elder Wang. Its primary political endeavor was to reform the political system, to achieve democracy, civil rights, and people''s livelihoods!


    Its main political demands were: breaking the lifelong tenure system of the Sanctuary''s higher-ups, opening up pathways for middle-level advancement, and conducting reasonable democratic selection processes.


    However, these two factions, being "ideological," didn''t have their own political "base" like the preceding four factions, so their influence was much smaller.


    But as the Sanctuary''s development accelerated, the consciousness of the middle class and the public was awakening, and the strength of these two factions was also growing.


    This is also the main reason why the Supreme Council added two Deputy Speaker positions in the last few years, bringing them into the fold.


    After understanding the situation of all factions from Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu did a quick calculation.


    If his guess was right, Ye Mingfeng should be from the Iron-Blood Faction, and Yan Chen was part of the Academic Faction.


    Commissioner Jiang was most likely from the Free Democracy Faction or the Reformist Faction ¡ª as he didn''t seem too familiar with Tang Feifei.


    And through analyzing the relationships of Dai Yukang, Qin Shuman, and Ye Mingfeng, it was likely that the two of them were from the Iron-Blood Faction as well.


    Tang Feifei belonged to the Fengtian Faction, and Liu Xiongyuan to the Reformist Faction.


    So, as Tang Feifei had mentioned, all the high-ranking officials of the major cities, or those in line for high-level positions, indeed needed to have factional backgrounds.


    The factions Qiu Tu could reach were only three: Iron-Blood Faction, Fengtian Faction, and Reformist Faction.


    The former two were powerful, but Qiu Tu''s standards were quite different from theirs, and even if he could join, he would be a fringe member with little support.


    Therefore, after considering all options, the Reformist Faction was still the best fit for Qiu Tu.


    No wonder Liu Xiongyuan, after recognizing his potential, immediately took him to see Elder Wang; and when Tang Feifei found out, she did no "persuading" to keep him ¡ª the Reformist Faction indeed was the most suitable place for Qiu Tu now.


    Thinking this way, and after going through the information about the six major factions of the Sanctuary in his mind, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated.


    He picked up the Communicator, ready to call Liu Xiongyuan, and formally join the Reformist Faction.

 Chapter 412 - 288: Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Have Liu Xiongyuan recommend to the upper echelons within the [Reformist Faction]. Then using the title of one of the initiators of the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan," let him rise up another level....


    Picking up the specially made Communicator to contact Liu Xiongyuan, Qiu Tu pressed the numbers and then brought the Communicator to his ear.....


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was making the call, Tan Huimin was still in the living room, not having left.


    To tell the truth, she hadn''t quite processed everything yet.


    Originally, her visit to Qiu Tu''s villa today was with the mindset of "the wind howls and the waters chill."


    She thought that Zheng Tao''s disappearance yesterday and Qiu Tu asking her to come to his home today were all part of Qiu Tu''s schemes.


    ¡ª Qiu Tu wanted to threaten her with Zheng Tao''s safety, forcing her to comply.


    Therefore, before coming to Qiu Tu''s villa, Tan Huimin had already braced herself for the possibility of losing herself to Qiu Tu.


    This was also the reason why she showed no false kindness to Qiu Tu when she first entered the door¡ªshe detested this man who had hurt her husband and humiliated her.


    However... after arriving at the villa, Tan Huimin found that everything was different from what she had thought.


    Not only did Qiu Tu not lay a finger on her, but he even actively gave her space and provided her with a document.


    That document was a confession from her husband, Zheng Tao.


    In the confession, Zheng Tao fully described how he had obtained her and slaughtered her entire family.


    To be honest, Tan Huimin''s hands were shaking as she read the confession.


    Although she had fallen for Zheng Tao under the influence of the "Mandragora Love Drug," she wasn''t a fool!


    There were many dubious points about the incidents in the past, but because Zheng Tao had brainwashed her and she had no one else to rely on, she had chosen to overlook them selectively.


    Now, with the whole truth laid out before her, how could she not discern what was real from what was fake!


    So, she crumbled, and she despaired.


    So... when Qiu Tu appeared before her again, she wanted to vent everything on Qiu Tu, to hurt the man who told her the truth!


    Plainly put, she had been living in a false dream for years. Thus, she was somewhat unable to accept returning to reality.


    Unexpectedly, although Qiu Tu stopped her outburst, he wasn''t annoyed with her. Instead, he still arranged for her a way to verify the truth of the matter.


    Thinking of this... Tan Huimin was momentarily lost in thought.


    She found that she didn''t quite know how to treat Qiu Tu. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Was Qiu Tu her benefactor or her enemy?


    How should she face Qiu Tu in the future? How should she face Zheng Tao?


    Lost in these thoughts, her eyes drifted aimlessly before she slowly stood up, according to what Qiu Tu had said earlier, ready to head to the Security Department to see her "husband."


    Although she almost believed all of it, she still wanted to hear her husband''s own admission.


    As for what she would do after the admission?


    She hadn''t thought it through.


    Take revenge on Zheng Tao?


    But what sort of revenge could make Zheng Tao suffer as she had?


    With these thoughts, Tan Huimin listlessly left the villa and then boarded the Security Department''s sedan, heading towards the Security Department¡­.


    At this moment, she had no idea where her future path would lead¡­.


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu also didn''t know where his future path would lead.


    He listened to the words of Liu Xiongyuan''s secretary on the other end of the phone, baffled.


    "I apologize, Minister Qiu. Director Liu has just evolved into a Fourth-order Cataclysmic and has entered seclusion for cultivation. He is estimated to require approximately three days. "


    "Before he went into seclusion, he specifically instructed me to record your message if you were to call and to get in touch with you as soon as he finishes his seclusion."


    Hearing the words of Liu Xiongyuan''s secretary, Qiu Tu asked in disbelief, "Director Liu has advanced to Fourth-order so soon?"


    "When did he advance?"


    The secretary said with a laugh, "Since last night. He succeeded this morning."


    "Director Liu has been lucky. After accumulating for so many years and obtaining the ''Boundless Divine Crystal,'' the breakthrough was just a matter of course."


    "Additionally, the ''Boundless Divine Crystals'' he saved for you have also been prepared in advance. He will hand them over to you after coming out of seclusion."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Did Qiu Tu care about what ''Boundless Divine Crystals'' were? He was concerned about his own future!


    His Cataclysmic Path was special; unlike other Cataclysmics, he couldn''t rely on external forces to advance, but had to be tied to an official position.


    Thus, advancing in rank was far more crucial to him than any Cataclysmic Material.


    And now, at the most critical moment, Liu Xiongyuan was going into seclusion for three days!?


    Qiu Tu was stunned.


    Three days... by then, the chance would have passed!


    Given the significance of the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan," everything would have been decided in three days!


    Uncle Liu! I was thinking of serving you as a son in your old age since you have no son, but you set me up?


    For a moment, Qiu Tu was speechless.


    After hanging up the call, Qiu Tu''s internal balance swung back and forth between "leaving it to luck" and "making another attempt."


    Leaving it to luck would be... to see if Elder Wang still remembered him.


    If he did, then becoming the Head of the Political Department would probably be settled with a nod from Elder Wang.


    If not, then all would be lost.


    As for making another attempt... that meant selling himself again.


    The only relationship Qiu Tu could rely on now was Tang Feifei.


    If need be, he would work hard for another few days and nights, taking good care of Tang Feifei. Then exchange for the Fengtian Faction''s support.


    However, by doing so, he would inevitably bear the mark of the Fengtian Faction. He wasn''t sure how that would affect his future prospects¡­.

 Chapter 413 - 288: Deputy Speaker Confirmed! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    After hanging up the call, Qiu Tu stood quietly by the window for a while.


    In the end, he made up his mind, to take a gamble!


    In any industry, anything, it''s either advance or retreat!


    When an opportunity presents itself, if you let it pass, it might mean lagging one step behind, and then every step!


    Moreover, in the current cataclysmic chaos, what future is there!


    "Now" is "the future"!


    Only by seizing the present can one have a future!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu no longer hesitated. He went to the kitchen, briefly notified Fang Tangtang of his urgent need to go out, and then hurriedly left the villa.


    Watching Qiu Tu''s retreating figure, Fang Tangtang''s timid eyes were filled with affectionate concern.


    She felt that a major figure like Qiu Tu really had it tough.


    So late, yet so hardworking.


    As for Larilo...


    She was equally surprised.


    She had originally thought that after Qiu Tu flirted with her, he would press his advantage or wait for her to contact him.


    But... he just left?


    ''So... he really didn''t notice me?''


    ''Did he mean everything he said tonight?''


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu was rushing to Tang Feifei''s house to use the promotion device and get promoted,


    Yan Chen sat in the darkness behind his desk in the study of his City Center Garden villa, smoking a cigarette. The bright ember flickered on and off in the dim room.


    His brow was furrowed, his face filled with frustration and disbelief.


    "What? Qiu Tu, Ye Mingfeng, and Dai Yukang have joined forces? In the name of the Political Department, they''ve initiated a ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' with the military and Security Department?"


    The man on the other end of the phone spoke with a strong voice, "I''ve faxed you all the relevant information."


    "You can take a look. The plan is very detailed and reliable. It has great feasibility."


    "The Sanctuary is taking this plan very seriously. Several Speakers have also given their approval." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It has been listed as one of the Sanctuary''s most significant projects for the upcoming year."


    As he spoke, the man paused, and then said in a steady and powerful voice, "It''s because of this plan that the establishment of Dongye State may be advanced once again."


    "In five days, I will arrive in Eastern City to form the Dongye State Council and take office as the Speaker."


    With this, the man''s identity became clear¡ªhe was none other than Huang Shangzong, one of the top figures in the Sanctuary and the first Dongye State Council Speaker.


    Huang Shangzong paused and then continued, "As for the choice of Deputy Speaker, the decision has also been made today."


    "Liu Xiongyuan, who designed, commanded, and killed a Fourth-Order Evil God, and advanced to a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic."


    "Ye Mingfeng, the highest ranking military officer with the greatest merit, and the proposer of the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development'' plan."


    "And Li Tingdong, the strongest and most economically effective from the City Hall faction."


    "Oh, and there have been some new changes in Dongye State this time. There''s a new Deputy Speaker-level position of Director of Security Bureau."


    "And Dai Yukang, with the merits from the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' has landed this spot. He has become the highest official in charge of Dongye State''s secret security and supernatural power management affairs."


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, even someone as crafty as Yan Chen''s face grew exceptionally ugly.


    His heart bled...


    Because all of this should have been his!


    He could have become a Deputy Speaker by devouring Larilo and advancing to a Fourth-Order Cataclysmic!


    But unexpectedly, the fall of one person raised three Deputy Speaker-level figures!


    Nevertheless, as the Investigation Bureau Chief of Xinjie City, Yan Chen was a man who never let his emotions show. So, he didn''t reveal his feelings but calmly analyzed, "This time, I was truly outplayed by them."


    "But it has also sounded an alarm for me."


    "These individuals are no ordinary players. We can''t give them any more chances to develop."


    He paused and then said, "So... can we hold up Qiu Tu''s side a bit?"


    After a moment''s thought, he continued, "He doesn''t have much of a foundation in the Sanctuary. And now, with Liu Xiongyuan in seclusion and unable to plan for him, we should be able to stall him, right?"


    --------


    A 10,000-word chapter, ha! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 414 - 289: The Big Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Compared to Yan Chen, Huang Shangzong obviously felt much more unfamiliar with Qiu Tu.


    So when he heard Yan Chen mention that he wanted to hinder Qiu Tu''s progress, his first reaction was confusion.


    After all, the gap between him and Qiu Tu was like the bright moon in the sky compared to the fireflies on the ground.


    A minor Deputy Chief of the Political Department was truly unable to catch his eye, nor did he deem him worth targeting.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have simply sent an advisor from his side to handle the situation when he suspected Qiu Tu was related to the assassination of Jia Shu.


    Therefore, he asked hesitantly, "Is a minor Deputy Chief of the Political Department worth such attention?"


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Yan Chen''s murky eyes grew even deeper.


    He squeezed out a smile, then explained, "Elder Huang... You might be underestimating this little fellow."


    "What I need to remind you is that although Qiu Tu is currently just a deputy chief, a year ago he was merely a commoner living at the bottom of the Disaster Zone."


    "And two months ago, he was only a Second-Class Investigator."


    "In the course of two months, he was consecutively promoted to First Level Detective, Deputy Staff, Principal Staff, Deputy Division Chief."


    "And now, he''s even aiming to become the Chief of the Political Department. Once successful, he will completely open the pathway to rise higher, soaring to the sky."


    After introducing Qiu Tu''s situation, Yan Chen continued with a deep tone,


    "Moreover... he is indeed crafty, cunning, and ruthless."


    "First, one of my maids was secretly killed by him, then the opposed Jia Shu was trapped and murdered, and finally, even Wu Zhi, whom you sent, was mysteriously assassinated."


    "One incident could be a coincidence, but the probability of them all being coincidences is too small."


    "Although there are no clues pointing directly to him as the backstage culprit, it further proves his skillfulness, proficiency, and the cleanliness and decisiveness of his methods."


    Pausing for a moment, Yan Chen added, "Such craftiness and ruthlessness will only cause greater destruction once promoted to higher levels."


    "So, all this is not for my personal interest, but for justice."


    Yan Chen was clearly very familiar with Huang Shangzong and understood his character well.


    Therefore, after his remarks, Huang Shangzong on the other end of the phone started to seriously consider the matter concerning Qiu Tu.


    Sensing the shift in Huang Shangzong''s emotions, Yan Chen slowly added, "And... Elder Huang, Qiu Tu''s promotion does not meet the standards."


    "His promotion has been too rapid recently. According to convention, he should not be promoted again."


    "Furthermore, all officials above division chief level are required to undergo training in the Sanctuary, and he has never undergone it, which does not comply with the regulations."


    By plainly stating that Qiu Tu did not meet the requirements, Yan Chen was in effect supplying Huang Shangzong with ammunition. He was pointing out the weaknesses in Qiu Tu''s promotion to Huang Shangzong.


    So after listening to Yan Chen''s words, Huang Shangzong, after a moment''s consideration, said carefully, "If that''s the case then, I''ll mention it when I review the personnel arrangements of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    After speaking, as if something occurred to him, he inquired, "By the way, has he joined the ''Iron-Blood Faction''?"


    "Otherwise, why would the military''s plan include him?"


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s words, Yan Chen took a deep drag on his cigarette, then, narrowing his aged eyes, he pondered a moment before saying, "He should not have."


    "He seems to have some kind of connection with Dai Yukang, but probably not to the extent of joining the Iron-Blood Faction."


    Continuing, Yan Chen added, "The man is very good at cultivating relationships. Not only Dai Yukang, but even Jiang Zhenpeng, and Tang family''s Tang Feifei, are closely associated with him."


    "Plus, Liu Xiongyuan has had dealings with him in the past."


    "He truly knows how to dance with long sleeves."


    Since Wu Zhi was killed, Huang Shangzong obviously hadn''t received any information about Qiu Tu, so now, hearing Yan Chen''s description,


    he finally understood the unique aspects of Qiu Tu.


    This time, he commented thoughtfully, "If a person is of unrighteous mind, the more capable they are, the more destructive they become."


    Yan Chen exhaled a puff of smoke, putting out the cigarette butt in the ashtray and nodded, "Precisely."


    Yan Chen continued, "So, while he hasn''t fully developed yet, we should press him down."


    Huang Shangzong "hmm"ed and then followed up with a question, "What is his relationship like with Jiang Zhenpeng, Liu Xiongyuan, and Tang Feifei?"


    "Will these factions potentially come to his aid when the time comes?"


    Yan Chen thought for another two seconds before answering, "He owes Liu Xiongyuan a favor, so Liu is the most likely to help him." S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But Liu Xiongyuan''s retreat was very sudden, and he probably didn''t have the time or prior arrangements to contact the top echelons of the Reformist Faction on his behalf."


    "Jiang Zhenpeng has a good relationship with him, but not to the extent that he would use or introduce his connections.


    "The only variable is Tang Feifei."


    "The Tang family is now extremely powerful, with influence spanning across military, political, and commercial sectors, possessing deep connections within the Investigation Bureau and being the current head of the Fengtian Faction."


    "However, because of this, the internal competition within the Tang family is also very fierce. As the daughter of the Tang family''s main branch, Tang Feifei, although greatly favored by Elder Tang, also faces brutal competition."


    "Moreover, as a daughter of the Tang family, her marriage can only be a political alliance. Qiu Tu, as her clandestine lover, can''t be brought to the forefront."


    "That woman is very astute and calm. She won''t give other competitors any handle at such a crucial time."


    Hearing Yan Chen''s words, Huang Shangzong "hmm"ed, then spoke, "Alright, I''ll make some arrangements tomorrow..."


    Finally securing Huang Shangzong''s promise, Yan Chen couldn''t help but reveal a smile on his face.

 Chapter 415 - 289: The Big Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    ```


    It''s not that he wanted to target Qiu Tu. The main issue was... Qiu Tu''s development was too fast, so fast that even today, upon reflection, it startled him.


    Moreover, the Head of the Political Department of a city might not matter to Huang Shangzong, the State Speaker, but it mattered to Yan Chen, the Investigation Bureau Chief of the city.


    You see, the Head of the Political Department is one of the highest ranks in the Investigation Bureau, eligible to join senior meetings. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And among the nine senior members, the Head of the Political Department ranks just below a few bureau chiefs, making it the top post among the directors.


    Moreover, the Political Department controls the Investigation Bureau''s intelligence system, and if Qiu Tu were to gain control, then Yan Chen would be left blind and deaf.


    That was why Yan Chen had been persistently persuading Huang Shangzong to check Qiu Tu''s rise today...


    Now that he had Huang Shangzong''s promise, Yan Chen could finally relax a little.


    But he didn''t place all his hopes on Huang Shangzong.


    He lit another cigarette, pondered quietly for a moment, and then picked up the desk phone again to call the Sanctuary...


    Huang Shangzong held too high a position and might not take the matter to heart. Therefore, he planned to find a few more "Academic Faction" friends from the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department, to give a hint, a reminder...


    For example... the Director of the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department who is in charge of all the Director-level appointments in the Planning Area...


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    As Yan Chen was trying by all means to stop Qiu Tu from becoming the Head of the Political Department,


    Qiu Tu drove to Tang Feifei''s villa.


    As a high-ranking member of the Investigation Bureau, even Tang Feifei''s two layers of security didn''t dare to check Qiu Tu''s car; they just saluted and let him pass.


    After getting out of the car, Qiu Tu entered the door with practiced ease.


    The maid inside the house bowed to Qiu Tu and then said, "The Bureau Chief is on the phone. Please wait in the living room."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded and walked into the living room.


    After waiting for two to three minutes, Tang Feifei came over, holding a communicator, having a few cold words before approaching.


    Reaching the living room, the call just ended, and she took off the communicator, then casually placed it on the bar counter.


    Afterward, with an expressionless wheatish face, she looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "Coming to see me so late, you must have something in mind, right?"


    Qiu Tu sharply sensed Tang Feifei''s somewhat cold demeanor that night.


    So he didn''t start with his own business right away and instead tested the waters by asking, "Feeling upset?"


    On hearing this, Tang Feifei rubbed her temples, then picked up a cup, poured some water and drank, saying, "It''s okay. Just some annoying family matters."


    Qiu Tu asked, "Can I help?"


    Tang Feifei glanced at him without saying anything, but her meaning was all too clear.


    Qiu Tu, thick-skinned, didn''t mind.


    After finishing the water in her cup, Tang Feifei asked, "Let''s not talk about me. Let''s talk about you."


    "You don''t visit without a reason. You must be here for something important, right?"


    Although Qiu Tu knew it wasn''t the right opportunity, he had come all the way, and since Tang Feifei kept pressing, it wasn''t good for him to hide anything.


    So, he had to look at Tang Feifei seriously and say, "Indeed, there''s a matter."


    "I am thinking... of becoming the Head of the Political Department."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei let out a light laugh, "And I fancy becoming the Head of the Tang Family."


    Qiu Tu looked at her then earnestly said, "I''m not joking. And... I really have a chance."


    After that, Qiu Tu simply explained the cooperation with the military and the joint initiation of the "Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan."


    In the end, Qiu Tu somewhat awkwardly said, "Actually... I didn''t want to bother you."


    "But now that Liu Xiongyuan is in seclusion, my connection with the ''Reformist Faction'' is cut off; they can''t help me, so I had no choice but to come to you."


    Tang Feifei''s mood tonight was either explosive, or she was genuinely upset.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, her wheat-colored face turned frosty.


    She squinted at Qiu Tu and bluntly said, "Your experience is too shallow, and you''ve risen too quickly."


    "Even with this project as a stepping stone, it''ll still be difficult to promote you."


    "So... why should I help you?"


    Seeing Qiu Tu wanted to explain, Tang Feifei, as if guessing his rhetoric, shook her head, "Don''t sell me the pie in the sky of how you can help me after becoming the Head of the Political Department."


    "Qiu Tu, to be honest. Bringing in a department head from the same faction from the Sanctuary would cost us less than promoting you."


    Having said that, Tang Feifei asked again, "So, what can you offer? What''s your bargaining chip?"


    Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Two days and two nights?"


    Tang Feifei:....


    Tang Feifei let out a cold laugh, "You don''t really take me for that kind of person, do you?"


    "Do you think I care about those few pounds of flesh?"


    ```


    Qiu Tu didn''t say a word, but his meaning couldn''t have been clearer.


    Tang Feifei: ???


    The veins on Tang Feifei''s forehead throbbed visibly.


    She laughed out of sheer frustration, "Fine, fine, fine! Come on! Let me check the merchandise first!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Chief, I am a man with principles. The price is set; no trials allowed..."


    "Mmm... of course, a little taste test is okay."


    "Hehe..." Did the woman with Tang Feifei''s personality care about what Qiu Tu thought?


    Ignoring him completely, she tore off her uniform with both hands, then lifted those long, slender legs and, with a stride full of wildness, she stepped toward Qiu Tu!


    Trial? Taste test?


    The children of the major families in the Sanctuary never had such concepts!


    Although she didn''t point at things and directly tell her elders, "Grandpa, I want that," like others did.


    But... what she wanted, she would definitely have!


    Perhaps sensing Tang Feifei''s peculiar mood that evening, Qiu Tu was also fully alert.


    The stronger a woman appeared, the more favorability one could gain from conquering her.


    The higher the waves, the more expensive the fish!


    Opportunity always accompanied danger at its side!


    So, this time, Qiu Tu first lured the enemy deep, allowing the irritable Tang Feifei to take the initiative.


    He gave her plenty of time to showcase herself.


    Finally, as Tang Feifei''s strength was waning, it was time for the serf to turn the tables and sing!


    He entered berserk mode!


    This battle strategy was indeed very effective.


    So even though Tang Feifei was completely out of strength, she still matched Qiu Tu in a "tug-and-pull" that was quite substantial!


    An hour and a half later.


    Qiu Tu, cradling Tang Feifei''s wild body, lit a cigarette and said nonchalantly, "Are you satisfied with this trial then?"


    Perhaps some activities really can change a person''s mood.


    After some venting, Tang Feifei was in a much better mood.


    She stretched languidly, chuckled lightly, and deliberately said, "It''s alright. Barely passable."


    By the end, she added another comment, "Just enough to let me have my fun."


    Was Qiu Tu going to let her get away with that verbal advantage?


    He laughed, "Hehe," and threw a boomerang back at Tang Feifei, "You''re still not satisfied with that? And you say you''re not that kind of person."


    Tang Feifei:.....


    Tang Feifei realized that Qiu Tu was toxic. He had a way of turning any conversation into a double bind.


    No matter what you said, it was wrong.


    When it came to verbal sparring, two of her wouldn''t match up to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, she no longer hoped to beat Qiu Tu verbally but flipped over, ready to initiate a second round of battle!


    Seeing Tang Feifei''s unscrupulousness, acting on impulse because she couldn''t win with words, Qiu Tu hurriedly exclaimed, "Wait a minute, Chief. The trial has ended, and the price now is different!"


    "What should the Head of the Political Department say?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei actually stopped in her tracks.


    She propped up her hands on either side of Qiu Tu''s neck and said with a cold face, "Qiu Tu... guess why I wasn''t happy tonight?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback at first. Then a flash of realization crossed his eyes.


    He harbored a guess in his heart, but he dared not confirm it, and... he hadn''t thought of a way to explain it yet.


    So, he could only pretend to be indifferent and replied, "Didn''t you say it''s because of your family?"


    "It must be someone in your family who made you unhappy, right?"


    Tang Feifei laughed, "Hehe," and said, "Indeed, they made me unhappy."


    "Because my second uncle, acting as a family representative, called and gave me an earful."


    "He said I was clueless about something as huge as the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Project''."


    "My second uncle asked me: This affair was obviously something you and the military were collaborating on. Why did I not hear a whisper of it? This prevented our family from being able to layout strategies and get involved early on."


    "The family smoothed things over with Jia Shu for you, paving your way to become the vice-minister. You and I have such a close relationship. Yet for such a big issue, you didn''t even breathe a word to me, not a hint of consultation."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was momentarily at a loss for words.


    Before Qiu Tu could explain, Tang Feifei said indifferently, "Do you know how I responded?"

 Chapter 416 - 290: Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was taken aback.


    Perhaps because Tang Feifei was discussing something very serious, Qiu Tu didn''t play his usual clever jokes but asked earnestly, "What did you say?"


    Tang Feifei glanced at Qiu Tu indifferently and then said, "I told them, in fact, I know your entire plan.


    "And that I had given my approval."


    To tell the truth, Tang Feifei''s choice really surprised Qiu Tu.


    He couldn''t help saying, "But... doing this, it will be hard to explain to your family later, right?"


    "When the Tang family discovers they still can''t get involved with the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' wouldn''t your trouble be even greater?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked down on Qiu Tu from her higher position and continued to ask, "So why do you think I lied to them?"


    Qiu Tu hesitated, "It couldn''t be... because of me, could it?"


    Tang Feifei laughed softly and said, "You guessed it. It is indeed because of you."


    She said coldly, "Others don''t know about your relationship with the military, but I do."


    "Although they''ve been trying to win you over, they''ve never treated you as one of their own."


    "For such an important plan, they wouldn''t add your name for no reason and give you such a big credit."


    "So there must be some leverage you have over them."


    "After gaining leverage over them, asking to have your name added implies that you want to use this to achieve a certain goal."


    Tang Feifei gave Qiu Tu a cold glance, "You are not one for wealth or fame. Surrounded by beauties, the only thing that can move your heart is power."


    "So, once I knew you were involved in the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' I guessed you were using this project to vie for the position of Director of the Political Department."


    At this point, Tang Feifei paused and then said, "Your information isn''t as current, but I knew as of last night that Liu Xiongyuan had advanced to Fourth Order and then went into seclusion."


    "Obviously, he doesn''t know about the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' so he didn''t arrange things for you in advance."


    "So once he went into seclusion, your connection to the ''Reformist Faction'' was cut off."


    "And since the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' is a priority for the Sanctuary, they won''t wait for him to come out of seclusion to make arrangements."


    "Without his help to work this out, who else could you turn to?"


    At this point, Tang Feifei used her left hand for support and pointed at her own face with the right, "Naturally, you''d have to come to me."


    "To have me contact the family for you."


    "At such a time, how could I possibly betray you, saying you didn''t tell me?"


    "I would have to steel myself to take on everything."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, even the stony-hearted Qiu Tu was touched for a moment.


    He looked up at Tang Feifei, "So... "


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, "So, when I made the call, I had already arranged everything for you."


    "I asked my uncle to make arrangements within the Investigation Bureau. To get the ''Fengtian Faction'' direct lineage within the General Investigation Bureau''s Organizational Department to secure your position for you."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu took a deep breath. And then he embraced Tang Feifei!


    With a strong thrust, before Tang Feifei could react, he entered Tang Feifei''s body!


    The complexity of the situation made Qiu Tu unwilling to explain further; he only knew that with such deep affection from a beautiful woman, it would be unseemly of him not to make a concerted effort.


    They say great kindness should not be spoken of in thanks. One can only commit oneself in this life or serve as a beast of burden in the next as repayment.


    Qiu Tu had no other skills; he could only combine these two. Using himself as a beast of burden, to return Tang Feifei''s kindness with "devotion"!


    In history, not many who went back and forth seven times managed to complete their mission, like Zhao Yun, like Wen Yang, and tonight there was one more:... Qiu Tu!


    ...


    A night without words.


    The next morning.


    As dawn broke, the always punctual Tang Feifei got up from next to Qiu Tu.


    She propped herself up, looking at Qiu Tu with a cold gaze, her eyes surprisingly holding a hint of guilt?


    Throwing on a robe, Tang Feifei left the bedroom and went into the dressing room to change into a practice outfit.


    Then, as she exercised in the villa''s courtyard in the early morning, she also reflected on her time with Qiu Tu the previous night.


    In fact... she had lied to Qiu Tu last night.


    Or to put it another way, although what she said was true, her intentions were not pure.


    She didn''t lie to the family because she liked Qiu Tu or to help him secure the position of Director of the Political Department.


    Although she did have some good feelings for Qiu Tu now, they hadn''t reached the stage of liking.


    After learning about the ''Yinxin Sea Project'' from the elders of her family and guessing Qiu Tu''s scheming, she suddenly became frightened...


    Before, she always felt a sense of superiority over Qiu Tu.


    Even though Qiu Tu was the only man in her life, he was... merely a puppy love affair. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Latterly, even as she gradually recognized Qiu Tu''s abilities and came to value him more and more.


    But... her attitude hadn''t changed much.


    However, upon finding out last night that Qiu Tu was involved in such an important plan and was about to become the Director of the Political Department, her sense of superiority shattered.


    That moment, she suddenly realized: without her noticing, this little man had grown to the point of almost standing shoulder to shoulder with her.


    The Director of the Political Department and the Deputy Director were now only a step apart, and the interaction between them had already become that of equals.


    Furthermore, with the power of the Political Department and involvement in the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan,'' Qiu Tu''s status and influence in Xinjie City might even surpass hers as Deputy Director.

 Chapter 417 - 290: Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    When Tang Feifei realized this, she was stunned.


    She wasn''t jealous of Qiu Tu, but the panic that she might "lose" Qiu Tu was real.


    So, after much deliberation, she decided to "put on a play."


    She knew that Liu Xiongyuan had gone into seclusion and couldn''t help Qiu Tu, so she was certain that Qiu Tu would come to her for help.


    Therefore, she made a decisive move and planned everything for Qiu Tu in advance.


    Then, when Qiu Tu came to her, she would pretend to be angry and give him the cold shoulder.


    After making Qiu Tu anxious, she would then tell him everything she had done for him, making him feel guilty and moved.


    To be honest, Tang Feifei wasn''t good at scheming or manipulating people''s emotions.


    Last night was her first attempt, and it was against Qiu Tu, someone close to her, which made her feel incredibly guilty....


    This was also why she had been in and out seven times, yet still got up early for morning practice...


    ''Alas... I''m still not strong enough. If I were the Bureau Chief, the Deputy Speaker, or even the Speaker, I wouldn''t need to resort to such despicable methods...''


    For a moment, Tang Feifei''s punches became heavier, and her wheat-colored face took on a more serious expression!


    However, what she didn''t know was.... Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She had just left the bedroom when Qiu Tu woke up.


    Lying in bed, Qiu Tu first lit a candle for his waist, mourning its breakdown once again¡­.


    Immediately after, Qiu Tu crossed his hands behind his head and pondered over the words and actions of Tang Feifei from last night.


    Tang Feifei wasn''t someone who was skilled at lying.


    And Qiu Tu was exactly someone who was exceptionally good at lying.


    Besides, the two were almost at a zero distance at that time.


    So, when Tang Feifei said that everything she did was for him, Qiu Tu quickly sensed something amiss with Tang Feifei.


    His perceptive mind almost instantly guessed where Tang Feifei had lied.


    He theorized that Tang Feifei''s arrangements for him weren''t that simple-hearted.


    Either she realized that she was starting to lose control and wanted to bind him with emotions, making him feel guilty and moved;


    Or.... the Tang family was too covetous of the benefits from the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" and thus used Tang Feifei to "kidnap" him.


    ¡ª Tang Feifei had made promises to her family to share the benefits with them, so how could Qiu Tu let her break her promise to her family?


    But both scenarios were good news for Qiu Tu. The former signified that he was becoming more and more important to Tang Feifei.


    Professionally, Qiu Tu could leverage Tang Feifei''s resources even more; personally, Qiu Tu could unlock even more of Tang Feifei''s "positions."....


    The latter, on the other hand, indicated that the Tang family didn''t see assisting Qiu Tu as an opportunity to recruit him but rather as a "transaction."


    That way, Qiu Tu wouldn''t be forced to join the "Fengtian Faction" and could continue down the "Reformist Faction" path.


    Of course, if the "Reformist Faction" path came to an end, Qiu Tu wouldn''t mind jumping onto the "Fengtian Faction" path and freeload.


    Or... he could merge the two factions.


    Of course, for the still-weak Qiu Tu, all these were too far away.


    Right now, he just hoped that the "Fengtian Faction" could properly secure his position as Head of the Political Department¡­.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the newborn sun rising outside the window.


    He remembered Tang Feifei saying that this morning the "General Investigation Bureau''s" Organizational Department would hold a small meeting to discuss the candidates for the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department.


    ''So... theoretically, there should be a result by this afternoon?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu was momentarily lost in thought....


    ...


    8:30 in the morning.


    The Eighth Sanctuary.


    This is the core of the entire Cataclysmic world''s northwest region, the sacred place in the hearts of the people from the northwest.


    If the Disaster Zone is considered a ruin and the Planning Area is perceived as the worn-out city waiting for revival, barely showing any traces of pre-Cataclysm civilization,


    Then... the Eight Great Shelters are the continuation of the sparks of civilization from before the Cataclysm.


    Skyscrapers rise abruptly like colossal beasts, piercing the sky.


    The shining glass facades under the sunlight flicker with mesmerizing and dazzling light and shadow, like ladders leading to heaven, reflecting the prosperity and bustle of the Sanctuary....


    The Eighth Sanctuary, the General Investigation Bureau is located in a skyscraper right at the center of the Sanctuary.


    At this time, at the 16th floor of the bureau building, in the Organizational Department''s Conference Room No. 1.


    The several attendees of the Organizational Department walked silently inside.


    Normally, as the department in charge of all subordinate Investigation Bureau positions, the atmosphere should be relaxed and comfortable.


    But for some reason, the faces of the attendees today seemed a bit more solemn.


    There were not many people attending today, just the Head of the Cadre Division Yang Zaiwen, the three Deputy Heads of the Organizational Department Zhen Lie, Meng Sanzhai, Zhou Jingfu, and the Director of the Organizational Department Yue Zaitian.


    Yang Zaiwen, Zhen Lie, Meng Sanzhai, and Zhou Jingfu, the four of them entered the office first.


    They didn''t engage in the usual casual chat as they normally would but instead leafed through documents.


    After a short while of this, the Director of the Organizational Department Yue Zaitian arrived late, accompanied by his secretary.


    He was a man who seemed to be in his fifties with speckled white hair, a steady demeanor, and a serious aura.


    Upon entering the conference room, Yue Zaitian gave the four a slight nod and then spoke slowly, "I apologize... I just got off the phone with Councillor Huang and talked a bit longer, which is why I''m late."


    Yue Zaitian, a graduate of The Eighth Sanctuary Military Academy, is one of the high-ranking members of the Academic Faction.


    When the General Investigation Bureau was first established, he was appointed as Deputy Director of the Organizational Department as the representative of the "Military Academy."

 Chapter 418 - 290: Qiu Tu: I Want to Dedicate Myself (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    After working for eight years, he succeeded the position of the Organizational Department Director because the previous director got into trouble.


    During his years in the Organizational Department, he had always vigorously excavated and cultivated the elite of the "Academic Faction."


    It was because of him that the "Academic Faction" was able to grow so rapidly.


    While sitting at the head of the meeting room, Yue Zaitian also recalled several phone calls he had received last night and this morning.


    Some were from his former subordinate, Yan Chen, and some from his students.


    A few people called, and they didn''t talk about anything else but hinted to him: to be more vigilant in today''s discussion about the Xinjie City Head of the Political Department''s meeting and not let a person named Qiu Tu get the position.


    This made him curious about this "Qiu Tu."


    So he flipped through the materials for today''s meeting.


    To his surprise, he discovered that Qiu Tu wasn''t even among the candidates being discussed.


    Thus, on one hand, he found the fuss made by several people laughable, and on the other hand, his curiosity about Qiu Tu grew.


    Therefore, he pulled up Qiu Tu''s file and resume and studied it carefully.


    After reading it, his brow furrowed.


    Qiu Tu''s promotion had been too fast, achieving in just two months what took others years, or even more than a decade.


    Moreover, looking at his resume, Qiu Tu had no traces of any faction, nor had he received any training from the Sanctuary.


    Such a person, aside from having the identity of an initiator of the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Project" to add some points, had virtually no chance of being elected as the Head of the Xinjie City Political Department.


    Thus, he didn''t take the matter too seriously.


    Unexpectedly, just as he was about to start the meeting, he received a call from Huang Shangzong.


    Huang Shangzong''s call was brief, but... the content was the same, asking him to block Qiu Tu.


    But perhaps because of Huang Shangzong''s status standing there, being both one of the top leaders of the "Academic Faction" and the soon-to-be Speaker of Dongye State.


    Both publicly and privately, Yue Zaitian had to consider his opinion.


    So, Yue Zaitian raised the importance of this matter a few notches. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He decided that today, no matter who was present, he could not let Qiu Tu be elected as the Director of the Political Department.


    Thinking this, he picked up his thermos, took a sip of water, and then looked around at the few people present and slowly began, "Alright, let''s begin today''s meeting."


    "The purpose of our meeting today mainly is to discuss the candidate selections for the high-level positions of the Investigation Bureaus in several Planning Areas."


    "The first one is for the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, the candidate for Head of the Political Department."


    Saying this, Yue Zaitian nodded towards Director Yang Zaiwen from the staff department, signaling him, "Director Yang, please introduce the situation of the candidates."


    Hearing Yue Zaitian''s words, Director Yang Zaiwen nodded and then said, "Regarding the selection of the Head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department, in principle, we respect their own internal recommendations."


    "But... they have reported two individuals this time, indicating both meet their requirements."


    "So, we still need to weigh in on their behalf."


    After saying this, Yang Zaiwen was ready to introduce the two candidates.


    However, just at that moment, suddenly, the door to the meeting room was knocked on "thump, thump, thump."


    Hearing the knocking, Yue Zaitian''s eyebrows knitted together. It was rare for anyone to disturb a meeting of the Organizational Department¡ªleaving a bad impression could affect one''s promotion.


    So, whoever dared to interrupt must be an important person or have an urgent matter.


    Recalling the several phone calls from last night and this morning, Yue Zaitian had a bad hunch.


    -------

 Chapter 419 - 291: Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    "Could it really be that someone wants to help that... what''s his name... Qiu Tu?"


    Thinking of this, Yue Zaitian''s gaze also slightly darkened.


    He was the director of the Organizational Department at the General Investigation Bureau, with his presence, who could interfere with the work of the Organizational Department? Who could arrange the position of a mere head of a municipal Political Department?


    With this thought, Yue Zaitian suppressed the ominous premonition in his heart, then made a subtle gesture to his secretary at the end of the conference room.


    Seeing the signal, the secretary quickly got up and walked toward the door of the conference room.


    The atmosphere in the conference room calmed down as the knocking sound interrupted them.


    Everyone lowered their gaze, picked up their water cups, and began to drink in silence.


    Just then, the door to the meeting room opened, followed by the slightly surprised voice of Yue Zaitian''s secretary, "Councilor Ouyang?!"


    After the surprise, the secretary realized his lapse in composure. He quickly snapped his feet together, saluted, and greeted, "Councilor Ouyang!"


    "Cough cough... cough cough..." Upon hearing the secretary''s words, everyone in the conference room, who had been drinking water nonchalantly, choked.


    They covered their mouths while coughing and glanced at the doorway with their peripheral vision. Upon seeing that it really was Councilor Ouyang, they quickly stood up while still coughing.


    For a moment, the sound of chairs scraping, coughing, and greetings filled the air.


    Even Yue Zaitian, who had been sitting at the head of the table from the start, furrowed his brow upon seeing Councilor Ouyang.


    He stood up with a solemn expression, nodded toward the amiable figure at the door, and greeted, "Commissioner Ouyang... why have you come?"


    Councilor Ouyang, whose real name was Ouyang Heng, was a current member of the Supreme Council from the Eighth Sanctuary, a deputy commissioner of the General Investigation Bureau, mainly overseeing the Organizational Department, Training Department, and Logistics Department.


    Like Yue Zaitian, he was one of the high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau''s head office, but because he held a higher position and wielded greater influence, he always overshadowed Yue Zaitian. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Some of Yue Zaitian''s self-interested arrangements would often be vetoed by him, so their relationship was not very good.


    The only thing that put Yue Zaitian slightly at ease was that Councilor Ouyang was a core member of the "Liberal Democratic Faction."


    Yue Zaitian remembered that when Yan Chen called him yesterday, he had analyzed the relationships Qiu Tu might have connected with, which included the "Iron-Blood Faction," "Fengtian Faction," and "Reformist Faction." Find your next read at My Virtual Library Empire


    There was no mention of the "Liberal Democratic Faction."


    ''So... is it just a coincidence?''


    With that thought, Yue Zaitian''s gaze fell upon Ouyang Heng.


    Perhaps sensing Yue Zaitian''s wariness, Ouyang Heng smiled and gestured for the few high-ranking members of the Organizational Department present to relax, then with his hands behind his back, he said, "No need for such formality, I just happened to be inspecting our Organizational Department. I heard you were having a meeting, so I came over to take a look."


    After speaking, he stepped toward the inside of the room, saying, "You continue, you continue."


    Seeing Ouyang Heng walking in so confidently, Yue Zaitian''s expression slightly brightened. He took a deep breath, waved to his secretary still standing by the door, and said, "What are you doing still standing there? Bring a chair for Commissioner Ouyang."


    Upon hearing Yue Zaitian''s words, his secretary quickly responded and hurried over, helping Ouyang Heng''s secretary to carry a chair for him.


    In formal organizations, seating is important, and Ouyang Heng, being the highest-ranking official present, should rightfully occupy the main seat.


    But since this was ultimately an Organizational Department meeting and he had come by temporarily, the two secretaries placed his chair next to Yue Zaitian, who then shifted his own seat half a step down.


    Thus, with Ouyang Heng''s arrival, the door of the conference room closed, and the meeting resumed.


    Yue Zaitian nodded again toward the director of the cadre office, Yang Zaiwen, who once again recited the first agenda item: the candidates for the head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Political Department.


    While Yang Zaiwen read through the items, Yue Zaitian quietly observed Ouyang Heng''s expression. Seeing that Ouyang Heng was just listening patiently without any hint of wanting to speak, Yue Zaitian felt slightly relieved.


    Therefore, after Yang Zaiwen finished reading, Yue Zaitian scanned the few subordinates present and began to speak slowly, "Director Yang has already introduced the situation to everyone."


    "The position of head of Xinjie City Political Department is currently vacant, and Xinjie City has submitted two candidates, one is Cai Peiyuan, and the other is Zhang Jian."


    "Both are talents cultivated by the Investigation Bureau with good capabilities and qualifications."


    "Everyone is welcome to express their opinions and discuss who is more suitable."


    After Yue Zaitian spoke, the atmosphere in the conference room quieted down for a moment.


    After a pause, Deputy Director Zhen Lie was the first to speak up, "Director, I actually feel that neither of these candidates is very good."


    Hearing Zhen Lie''s words, Yue Zaitian''s heart skipped a beat, fearful that the worst possibility had occurred: someone was really helping Qiu Tu.


    Fortunately, it was just a deputy director, and he believed he could still suppress it.


    While Yue Zaitian thought this, Zhen Lie continued slowly, "What is the biggest issue in the Sanctuary these days?"


    "It is the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' of Xinjie City."


    "This plan concerns the future development of our Sanctuary for the next few years, a decade, or even several decades."


    "Among the plan''s initiators, the first three are from the military, which we will not discuss now, but the last one is from our Investigation Bureau, named Qiu Tu."

 Chapter 420 - 291: Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "I''ve looked into his records and files; although he comes from a civilian background in the Disaster Zone, his abilities are outstanding, and he''s bold and brave in action."


    "After becoming the Deputy Staff Head, in just two short months, he has cracked several major cases and has always cooperated with the military and the Security Department."


    "I guess it''s precisely for this reason that he was able to participate in this grand project."


    At this point, Zhen Lie paused. Seeing that everyone in the meeting room was listening intently, he continued, "So, I think we should promote him, make him the Head of the Political Department."


    "In doing so, not only can we ensure the smooth execution of the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' without any further complications, but we can also strengthen the connection between Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and the military, making Xinjie City even more stable."


    Zhen Lie picked up his water glass and added one last sentence, "After all, nobody knows whether replacing him with Qiu Tu might cause our Investigation Bureau to miss out on opportunities in this ''Great Development Project''."


    Having said that, Zhen Lie took a sip of water, set down his glass, and said indifferently, "I''ve finished speaking."


    After Zhen Lie spoke, the room fell silent.


    Yue Zaitian, observing the room, shook his head slightly and said with a smile, "Deputy Minister Zhen has some valid points, but... he''s exaggerating a bit."


    "The ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' is, without a doubt, a priority of the Sanctuary for the next few years, and it''s true that Qiu Tu is one of the initiators."


    "But... who says that collaboration can only continue if he becomes the Head of the Political Department?"


    Yue Zaitian sharply pointed out the logical flaw in Zhen Lie''s argument, "After all... even while Qiu Tu was working with them, wasn''t he just the Deputy Head of the Political Department?"


    "Neither Xinjie City Military Department has raised any objections, nor has the Investigation Bureau shortlisted Qiu Tu. This indicates that Qiu Tu''s status has no impact on the project."


    Yue Zaitian paused before saying, "On the contrary, I believe it''s better for the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'' if we do not have Qiu Tu assume the role of Head of the Political Department."


    He explained, "As the Political Department is one of the most crucial divisions of the Investigation Bureau, heading such a department requires a great deal of effort." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Right now, Qiu Tu should be focusing his efforts on assisting the military in executing the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan'', not managing the Political Department."


    "So..." he concluded, "I think we should not add any more candidates, but instead discuss the ones reported by the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    Yue Zaitian''s remarks were insightful. He not only pointed out the holes in Zhen Lie''s argument but also provided a seemingly noble reason to block Qiu Tu''s candidacy.


    Having said his piece and feeling that most of those present would agree with him, he naturally picked up his glass, ready to take a drink.


    But just then, another deputy minister, Meng Sanzhai, spoke up.


    "I don''t quite agree with Minister Yue''s words..." he said.


    Yue Zaitian''s drinking motion halted, his gaze sharpening.


    Meng Sanzhai glanced at Zhen Lie, who had just proposed nominating Qiu Tu, and said with a smile, "I tend to agree more with Deputy Minister Zhen''s words; I also nominate Qiu Tu..."


    Upon hearing this, Yue Zaitian slowly placed his water glass back down and stared intently at Meng Sanzhai. He opened his mouth, ready to say a few words.


    But at that moment, Ouyang Heng, who had been sitting in the place of honor, suddenly spoke up as well.


    He looked interestedly at the two deputy ministers and said with a smile, "It''s been a long time since I last attended a meeting of our Organizational Department, and I''ve indeed learned quite a bit this time."


    "When our Organizational Department selects talents, it should indeed be open-minded, letting everyone express their views, and nominate those they believe to be the right talent. Doing so allows more capable individuals to take on more important positions."


    Yue Zaitian''s complexion changed drastically when he heard Ouyang Heng''s words, and the meeting room became a whirlpool of undercurrents.


    Ouyang Heng''s words sounded like casual remarks, but everyone present was astute enough to understand his meaning.


    His statement "Selection of talents should not be rigid" and "nominate who you think is right" was nothing short of support for Zhen Lie and Zhou Jingfu, a backing for Qiu Tu!


    So, at that moment, Yue Zaitian''s heart sank.


    His gaze swept over Ouyang Heng, Zhen Lie, and Meng Sanzhai in turn, and the ominous premonition he had been harboring began to intensify.


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    ''How is it that things seem to be getting out of control...?''


    ''Didn''t Yan Chen that bastard say that Qiu Tu only had the backing of the Fengtian Faction? Why are so many people speaking for him?''


    ''Just what is his identity?''


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    At the Investigation Bureau, where the selection of the Head of the Political Department was fraught with tension and contention.


    A dramatic change was also taking place in Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    In Qiu Tu''s office...


    Cao Dabiao, Chen Feng, Eagle, Ah-Kun, Song Qing, and Li Xian had all gathered around Qiu Tu''s desk, bombarding him with their chatter.


    With a face full of urgency, the portly Cao Dabiao said, "Brother Tu, this is clearly aimed at us."


    "I was doing fine in the Administrative Office. Suddenly they say I need to be repositioned, told me to take a couple of days off."


    "If it were just me alone, it wouldn''t matter. But Chen Feng, Eagle, Song Qing, they were all put on hold for similar reasons."


    "It''s obvious that someone is targeting us!"


    Cao Dabiao was of the emotional type, while Chen Feng was more composed.


    Chen Feng calmly took over the conversation, "Boss, I just found out. The several hundred people who were promoted with us haven''t received any orders or been affected at all."


    "Whereas all of our people have been removed or suspended from duty for various reasons."

 Chapter 421 - 291: Why Are There So Many People Behind Qiu Tu? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    "This really seems like they''re beginning to take action against us."


    Hearing the conversation between the two people and looking at several subordinates who were a bit agitated, Qiu Tu lit a cigarette. He smoked, suppressing his own shock and quietly contemplated.


    It was only after a few subordinates had come to the office that he became aware of the news.


    Just ten or so minutes ago, all of his subordinates had been collectively suspended. The reasons given were roughly the same, stating there were other arrangements.


    But... if it were one or two with "other arrangements", it could be seen as a coincidence.


    Dozens of people, including Wang Dawei and Li Ke who later sided with Qiu Tu, were suspended, and that can only be described as too targeted.


    If it were the Investigation Bureau trying to correct the chaos and revert the promotions given during Yan Chen''s absence a few days ago?


    That wouldn''t be right either.


    Because, in the past few days, it wasn''t only Qiu Tu''s confidants who were promoted. The confidants of Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, and Shi Youxin, as well as The Five Elders'' people, were also promoted.


    Now, apart from Qiu Tu''s people, none of theirs were touched.


    ''Damn it... It must be that bastard Yan Chen!'' S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Divide and rule, pull in one batch, keep another, and strike another! Such a skillful tactic!''


    With just a bit of thought, Qiu Tu guessed Yan Chen''s intention.


    Frankly, the actions Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had taken some time ago were too much. Promoting hundreds of people collectively had occupied all the middle-level positions in the Investigation Bureau.


    But... precisely because it was excessive, too many people were involved. Even Yan Chen, the Bureau Chief, wouldn''t dare to demote everyone.


    That could lead to backlash from various powers and hostility from many in the middle and lower ranks.


    In this troublesome autumn, even Yan Chen wouldn''t want to invite such trouble.


    Yet, he couldn''t swallow his pride.


    So... he sorted through the several hundred people who had been promoted.


    Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin had always been close to him, and although they had defected recently, they could be brought back. Hence, being promoted remained. He simply accepted it.


    The Five Elders and Tang Feifei... one had tremendous influence in Xinjie City and the other had a profound background in the Sanctuary.


    Making hasty moves could easily cause trouble, so he left them alone for the time being, planning to deal with them after Dongye State was established.


    After considering all these, Qiu Tu was the easiest target to squeeze.


    So, he guessed that it only took a verbal command from Shi Youxin to suspend all of Qiu Tu''s people.


    This was probably just his first move: testing the waters.


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    He clearly wanted to see, after moving against Qiu Tu''s people, whether Qiu Tu had strong enough countermeasures; and how intense the reactions of Tang Feifei and The Five Elders would be.


    If everything was within his tolerance, he would continue to take action against Qiu Tu.


    For example, by adjusting Qiu Tu''s responsibility in the Political Department, stripping away the intelligence and interrogation departments, in this way probing Qiu Tu''s bottom line.


    If the cards Qiu Tu played still couldn''t threaten him, then he would further shrink Qiu Tu''s "living space."


    For instance, he could send Qiu Tu to the Clean Government Office to be a Deputy Division Chief without changing Qiu Tu''s rank.


    Plainly put, Yan Chen had now completely identified Qiu Tu as an enemy and started making his move....


    After thinking this through, Qiu Tu started to feel a bit frustrated.


    One rank higher in office can crush a person, and he was still three ranks below Yan Chen.


    Even his strongest tactics became mild when applied to Yan Chen.


    To pose a threat to Yan Chen was truly a difficult challenge.


    ''No... it can''t continue like this.''


    ''I must find a way to hit Yan Chen''s soft spot! To let him know, I can also hurt him, or take him down with me!''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s mind spun rapidly, considering ways to break the situation.....


    ------


    ```

 Chapter 422 - 292: Promotion! Head of the Political Department! (10k words plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    At that moment, seeing Qiu Tu lost in thought, the few confidants in the office stopped speaking.


    They exchanged glances and then stood there in silence, waiting for Qiu Tu to make a decision.


    For this young superior of theirs, they had long held absolute faith and were willing to follow Qiu Tu''s progression.


    This was evident from their loyalty scores, all above 80 points.


    In the past few months, they had been through so much with Qiu Tu. Thus, they had full confidence in him.


    They believed that no matter the difficulty or trouble, it would be readily solved once it reached Qiu Tu.


    Even if the enemy might be Yan Chen, the top official of the Investigation Bureau...


    At that time,


    Qiu Tu, upon whom many hopes were pinned, had his mind racing at high speed.


    He was weighing the cards in his hand, trying to determine which one to play for the best effect....


    Although Qiu Tu''s power was still weak compared to Yan Chen, he had known from the start that they would confront each other. So, he had been diligently gathering evidence of Yan Chen''s crimes and leverage against him.


    However, most of the leverage was insignificant for someone of Yan Chen''s stature.


    If brought to light, it would only expose Qiu Tu without posing any threat.


    Therefore, after much consideration, Qiu Tu realized he only had two pieces of leverage that could possibly control Yan Chen.


    One was Secretary Bai.


    Back then, he had hinted to Secretary Bai, leading him to defect to the Evil God Larilo and become an Evil God Cultist.


    Over this past year, Secretary Bai had done many bad things for Evil God Larilo, covering up numerous loose ends.


    Although Yan Chen''s ultimate goal was to Devour the Evil God, he had not succeeded.


    Thus, some actions taken by him and Secretary Bai over the past year had crossed the line for the Sanctuary.


    If exposed, it would likely have a significant impact on Yan Chen.


    Besides Secretary Bai, the other piece of leverage Qiu Tu had against Yan Chen was the recording on the night of Jia Shu''s death.


    At the time, Qiu Tu had asked Yan Chen whether to save Jia Shu. It was Yan Chen who, after weighing the pros and cons, decided to use Jia Shu''s death to pit Liu Xiongyuan against Huang Shangzong.


    This recording could make it clear to the entire Investigation Bureau what kind of person Yan Chen was, and could also turn Huang Shangzong against Yan Chen.


    Displaying either piece of leverage to Yan Chen could make him hesitate, preventing him from pushing too aggressively.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt a bit of hesitation: maybe he should use these two pieces of leverage to threaten Yan Chen?


    ''Might that be insufficiently persuasive and instead expose me?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu took a deep drag on his cigarette, his gaze growing somber.


    At first glance, these two pieces of leverage seemed to have some effect. Explore stories at My Virtual Library Empire


    But upon closer consideration, they seemed unlikely to be decisive.


    The "Secretary Bai" leverage, although Qiu Tu had already figured everything out, had two issues: one, Yan Chen had not directly ordered Secretary Bai to do those things; and two, Secretary Bai would not testify for Qiu Tu.


    Thus, even if the Sanctuary were to investigate, it seemed like they would not be able to uncover anything.


    The "recording of Jia Shu''s death" leverage could indeed drive a wedge between Huang Shangzong and Yan Chen.


    But both of them were, by now, significant figures who''d long placed interests above personal feelings.


    Would they really fall out over a person who had died?


    Even if they did fall out, don''t forget that they belonged to the same faction. The bigwigs in their faction, once they learned of this, would 100% step in to mediate.


    Thus, neither incident seemed capable of posing a significant threat to Yan Chen.


    Instead, it risked laying bare Qiu Tu''s actual situation to Yan Chen....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu closed his eyes, continuing to ponder.


    Besides these two pieces of leverage, did he really have nothing else on Yan Chen?


    Maybe... he should seek out Tang Feifei and The Five Elders?


    Apply collective pressure directly to Yan Chen?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brows furrowed deeply.


    ''Something''s off! Something''s off!''


    ''There''s something strange....''


    While he felt the oddity inside, he couldn''t put his finger on what exactly it was.


    So he sat there with closed eyes, thinking in silence for several minutes.


    Several minutes passed, until the cigarette butt was nearly burning his fingers, before Qiu Tu suddenly opened his eyes with a shocked expression!


    ''Bloody hell! Could all of this be a trap?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s gaze flickered as he meticulously recalled Yan Chen''s every move over the past year, and soon he started to pick up on the clues and signs....


    Just as Qiu Tu had previously analyzed, Yan Chen was in fact a very savvy political operator.


    Though he was adept at conspiracy and deceit, his biggest habit was "using minimal force to move a heavy object."


    Yan Chen was particularly skilled at using a simple trick to create a snowball effect, ultimately leading to massive consequences.


    His subjugation of the Qin Family; blackmailing Vice President Tian; paving the way for Deputy Division Chief Qiu Tu; and the almost successful Devour plan for the Evil God....


    All used this tactic.


    Therefore, today''s flamboyant suspension, forcing Qiu Tu into desperation, was simply not his style!


    Although... it was possible that Yan Chen, having been outmaneuvered severely by Qiu Tu, had reacted against his usual habits and struck back with force; Qiu Tu preferred to believe¡ªit was a trap within a trap.


    Yan Chen was still using the tactic of "using minimal force to move a heavy object" against him.


    It was just that this "minimal force" was so substantial that it had initially escaped Qiu Tu''s notice. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu felt everything falling into place.


    He snuffed out the cigarette butt in the ashtray that Song Qing had brought over, and a flicker of realization crossed the depths of his eyes.

 Chapter 425 - 293: Yan Chens Defense Is Broken (10,000 Characters to Plead for Monthly Tickets!)

    ''He actually made it...!''


    Although since learning that Qiu Tu was plotting to become the Head of the Political Department, a premonition lingered in Yan Chen''s mind.


    But when it all became reality, he still found it hard to believe.


    Today''s weather in Xinjie City was fine, but because the curtains were drawn in the office, the light could only struggle through the gaps in the curtains, barely providing a glimmer of brightness to the spacious office.


    Sitting in this piece of territory that belonged solely to him, Yan Chen leaned back in the mahogany chair, his whole person cloaked in darkness.


    He closed his eyes, tilting his head back, silently contemplating in the dim environment.


    ''Something''s off, something''s really off...''


    His mind raced, and he proceeded to sort through everything that had happened recently.


    ''Qiu Tu''s promotion was just too fast...''


    ''It''s as though a hand is orchestrating everything.''


    Yan Chen recalled the year he had known Qiu Tu.


    He felt the initial Qiu Tu was somewhat clever, but he was still honest and simple at heart.


    But... since a few months ago, Qiu Tu had become a completely different person, entirely unlike his former self.


    It was just that because the original impression was too ingrained, he had continued to see Qiu Tu as the young man from the bottom of the Disaster Zone.


    Now, setting aside all first impressions, Yan Chen re-evaluated Qiu Tu and was shocked to discover that in just a few months, Qiu Tu had completely fooled all the powers within Xinjie City.


    Uniting allies, driving the wolf to devour the tiger, leveraging forces against each other, all kinds of political strategies were played out fancifully by him.


    And what was more important was, he seemed to have no political bottom line, for the sake of promotion, he even got involved with Tang Feifei and climbed into her bed...


    Such tactics, such ruthlessness, were definitely not something a lower-class individual could achieve.


    And thinking back to the starting point of all these changes... Larilo''s descent, when he performed the "Spirit and Flesh Convergence Ritual"...


    Yan Chen slowly opened his eyes, his murky gaze fluctuating incessantly...


    Memories surged.


    Yan Chen remembered that day; everything had been going very smoothly.


    His ritual had been initiated, Larilo''s consciousness descended, converging with his daughter Yan Yan''s clone...


    Then suddenly, the sky drastically changed, and the ritual shattered.


    At that moment, as though in a trance, Yan Chen''s Spiritual Perception was automatically triggered, and it seemed as though he saw the corresponding area of Xinjie City and the Boundless Heart Sea engulfed by howling winds, dark clouds swirling, layering, forming a raging vortex!


    Following that, a roar like that of an ancient beast echoed within the coiling storm.


    Accompanied by that roar, bolts of lightning struck down from the heavens, cleaving the sky, shattering the storm!


    When the vision dissipated, the only thing lingering in Yan Chen''s retina was the lightning dancing like silver snakes across the heavens...


    After this incident occurred, Yan Chen never mentioned it to anyone.


    He always felt as though he had inadvertently triggered something, and he remained restless.


    But he had been keeping an eye on Xinjie City and the Boundless Heart Sea for this period and had not noticed any changes.


    Initially suspecting his intelligence system was inadequate, he obtained an advantage over President Tian and upgraded the Political Department''s surveillance and eavesdropping systems.


    Still, no discoveries were made...


    Now, he suddenly had a flash of insight: could it be... that day''s celestial changes actually manifested on Qiu Tu''s body?


    And because it''s often darkest under the lamp, he had failed to notice this? sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking of this, Yan Chen''s crumpled face tightened with some confusion.


    But... what exactly was the relationship between Qiu Tu''s changes and those celestial changes?


    Could it be that some high-level Evil God noticed his ritual and took advantage of it to seize Qiu Tu''s body using some method?


    Or perhaps, that celestial change awakened some Catastrophe Power within Qiu Tu, causing his abilities to advance by leaps and bounds?


    At this thought, Yan Chen''s aged hands slowly clenched tighter.


    If this were true, then he felt that many of the recent incidents might have a new explanation...


    For instance... he had never understood who had been calculating against him beforehand.


    Now it seemed... it must be the ''changed'' Qiu Tu.


    After all, only this possibility could explain why people like Tang Fei, Liu Xiongyuan, who were not adept at conspiracy, managed to scheme against him so thoroughly.


    Not only did it lead to the complete failure of his plan to Devour Larilo and advance to Fourth-order Catastrophe-Evolver, but also all his efforts ended up benefiting Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, Dai Yukang, and others.


    The more he thought about it, the angrier Yan Chen got.


    If Qiu Tu were in front of him right now, he guessed he could slap Qiu Tu to death! Letting Qiu Tu know the consequences of angering an Investigation Bureau Chief!


    However, thinking of this, Yan Chen suddenly realized: Qiu Tu was already the Head of the Political Department.


    Although the appointment hadn''t come down yet, since Yue Zaitian had sent a message that represented failure, it was probably irreversible.


    So... he couldn''t harm Qiu Tu at all anymore.


    Even, not to mention harming Qiu Tu, he now had to face him in a more equal manner.


    After all, the Head of the Political Department was one of the nine senior executives of the Investigation Bureau. He could participate in the Bureau''s senior meetings and had voting rights and decision-making powers on various major issues.


    And what''s more... the Political Department was just too important.


    The Political Department was essentially a secret police force, holding all the spies of the Investigation Bureau, wielding the power to supervise various departments, and most crucially... also controlling the Investigation Bureau''s intelligence network!


    To be frank, as an Investigation Bureau Chief aiming to control Xinjie City, he could not do without the Political Department.

 Chapter 426 - 293: Yan Chens Defense Is Broken (10,000 Characters to Plead for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    ''Being choked....''


    After sighing silently to himself, Yan Chen couldn''t help but think again about the people installed by Tang Feifei and The Five Elders within the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, feeling even more irritable.


    He felt as if the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was gradually slipping out of control.


    What was even more important was the feeling of powerlessness he now felt, as if he could no longer turn his hand over clouds and rain as he had in the past.


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen couldn''t help but reach up to press his temples, then fell silent for a while.


    A few minutes later, as if he had made a decision, he quietly calculated in his mind....


    ''Now that everything is beyond saving, it is not appropriate to act rashly.''


    ''We''ll wait for Huang Shangzong to arrive in Dongye State before doing anything.''


    Thinking this, Yan Chen slowly closed his eyes....


    .....


    Meanwhile, Sanctuary. General Investigation Bureau building, 16th floor, Organizational Department, Room 1.


    The atmosphere in the Organizational Department was still very good.


    After Qiu Tu was confirmed as the Head of the Xinjie City Political Department, the remaining appointments were divided smoothly following old precedents.


    The Organizational Department has always been a battleground for all factions since no single family could dominate¡ªthe different affiliations of the department heads were proof of that.


    Therefore, previous meetings in the Organizational Department were all about sitting together and divvying up the spoils. Cases like Qiu Tu''s today were extremely rare.


    This also explained why Yue Zaitian was caught off guard today; the meeting was originally scheduled as a department heads'' meeting, open only to heads, and though he was a head himself, he was a lone wolf. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as everything returned to the normal rhythm of the Organizational Department, he finally let go of his worries.


    Because he was certain: the Organizational Department had not lost control. The reason he was ''attacked'' earlier was solely because Qiu Tu was too special, with too many wanting to back him.


    This curiosity about what magical powers Qiu Tu possessed, compelling various factions to intervene, colored the remainder of the meeting.


    This was an extremely rare occurrence even in the history of the Head office''s Organizational Department.


    With heavy questions in mind, the Organizational Department''s department heads'' meeting concluded.


    Once the department heads had settled on the candidates, it would just take the formalities before the decisions would be sent down to Xinjie City.


    It was expected that a deputy head of the Organizational Department would soon go down to announce the arrangements.


    At the end of the meeting, as two secretaries went to open the door, Ouyang Heng stood up and, with a smile, said to Yue Zaitian, "Old Yue, today''s internal meeting went well."


    After speaking, he headed towards the door.


    Hearing Ouyang Heng''s ''praise,'' Yue Zaitian''s expression changed, cursing Ouyang Heng furiously in his heart.


    ''This old bastard is truly unfilial!''


    After Ouyang Heng departed, Yue Zaitian scanned the few people present and also stood up to leave.


    Once he left, several deputies who had just joined forces exchanged glances, their eyes reflecting an indefinable feeling.


    Perhaps because of their recent alliance, the three who were already somewhat familiar seemed to have developed a bond as comrades-in-arms.


    And having all received a ''mysterious'' notice the night before, they felt a sense of camaraderie in encountering like-minded people.


    So Zhen Lie, the top-ranking deputy head, cleared his throat and suggested, "Old Zhou, Old Meng, how about we sit at my place?"


    The other two, who had the same intention, looked at each other and nodded.


    Minutes later, the three arrived at Zhen Lie''s office.


    Zhen Lie made tea for Zhou Jingfu and Meng Sanzhai who were seated on the sofa.


    Then he lit a cigarette, crossed one leg over the other, and while smoking, he probed, "You all received the call too?"


    With almost everything out in the open, there wasn''t much left to hide.


    Zhou Jingfu, representing the ''Fengtian Faction,'' leaned back on the sofa and said lightly, "It seems we all did."


    He paused before volunteering, "I was contacted by the Tang family."


    "They wanted me to support that... what''s his name, Qiu Tu, in the meeting."


    Clearly unfamiliar with Qiu Tu, after finishing, he took a sip of tea and added, "But seeing you and Old Meng stepping in, I didn''t push too hard to avoid pressuring Old Yue too much."


    Hearing his words, Zhen Lie tapped him with a smile and said, "You, slick one."


    As a member of the ''Iron-Blood Faction,'' Zhen Lie, even though he was in the Investigation Bureau Organization Department, still carried a strong military bearing¡ªstraight-talking, with great presence and influential force.


    After laughing at Zhou Jingfu from the ''Fengtian Faction,'' his gaze shifted to Meng Sanzhai.


    Meng Sanzhai appeared as a somewhat simple and honest middle-aged man. Seeing Zhen Lie look his way, he nodded with a smile, "Elder Wang''s secretary called me last night."


    "He said Elder Wang sees a lot of potential in the young man Qiu Tu, a promising seedling. He told me to keep an eye out if there was a chance."


    "Seeing that you nominated Qiu Tu, I thought I''d give it a go, and it turned out well."


    Finished speaking, Meng Sanzhai also looked at Zhen Lie and asked, "Minister Zhen... what about you?"


    Zhen Lie narrowed his eyes with a drag of his cigarette, then said casually, "It wasn''t someone from above who sought me out, but from below."


    He paused before adding, "Old Dai, Dai Yukang."


    "He was a brother from my unit, good relationship. Later he transferred to the secret front, but we still occasionally kept in touch."


    "He will soon become the Director of Security Bureau in Dongye State. He called last night asking for a favor on this matter."


    "He said to observe today''s meeting, and if... if everything during the meeting is normal, there would be no need to nominate Qiu Tu."


    "But if someone came during the meeting, then try nominating Qiu Tu to see how things go."

 Chapter 427 - 293: Yan Chens Defense Is Broken (10,000 Characters to Plead for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    As Zhen Lie spoke, he couldn''t help but laugh, "And to think... I didn''t expect that Councilor Ouyang would actually show up."


    "So, I tried nominating Qiu Tu as well. And then... you guys all jumped out."


    "Good grief, I''ve been in the department for so long, and I''ve never seen such a scene."


    "Which got me thinking during the meeting, what on earth goes on in Dai Yukang''s head? He''s thousands of miles away from the Sanctuary, how did he calculate all of this?"


    Hearing Zhen Lie''s words, Meng Sanzhai and Zhou Jingfu exchanged glances, somewhat surprised.


    They had heard of Dai Yukang and knew that he did very well on the secret front, having been praised multiple times.


    Moreover, he was not like the direct descendants of the factions sent to the Planning Area to "gild their resum¨¦s," such as Yan Chen, Ye Mingfeng, and Tang Feifei.


    Perhaps because his way of doing things differed from the "Iron-Blood Faction," he wasn''t part of the core group that the faction focused on cultivating, giving him a bit of a "blue-collar" vibe among factions.


    Even though he was only in his forties, he had already worked in the Security Department of three different cities.


    In every city''s Security Department, he started from scratch, building it up and then fostering its growth, proving his exceptional ability.


    His position as the head of the Security Department granted him the military rank of Senior Colonel; the recent promotion to Director of Dongye State Security Bureau and the responsibility over the secret front of over a dozen cities in Dongye State also related to this experience.


    So, when they learned that it was he who had asked Zhen Lie to nominate Qiu Tu, Zhou Jingfu and Meng Sanzhai''s regard for Qiu Tu immediately escalated several levels.


    And considering that someone as seemingly inconsequential as Qiu Tu had drawn the attention of so many capable individuals and important figures...


    For a while, the office atmosphere quieted down, as the three of them reminisced about Qiu Tu''s credentials, searching for something special about him.


    After a moment, Meng Sanzhai straightened up and spoke, "Right... who invited Councilor Ouyang?"


    "Is the ''Liberal Democratic Faction'' also interested in Qiu Tu?"


    At his question, Zhen Lie and Zhou Jingfu''s eyes also showed a hint of confusion.


    Clearly, according to Qiu Tu''s credentials and intelligence, he had no connection to the ''Liberal Democratic Faction'' whatsoever, right?


    So the three exchanged glances, feeling that the mystery surrounding Qiu Tu was only getting thicker...


    They felt as if Qiu Tu was being favored by some real big shot, who had specifically chosen him...


    After all, with Councilor Ouyang''s status, unless there was a nomination from a faction leader and a certain exchange of interests, it would be impossible to get him to act...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Xinjie City.


    Qiu Tu stood in his new office, with a lollipop in his mouth, looking at the bright but slightly shabby lollipop and mocking himself,


    "Back to the Administrative Office I go, and I don''t even have a secretary anymore."


    "It''s like going back to the stone age, huh~~"


    "Wonder when I can get back to the Political Department."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu crossed his hands behind his head and idled away some time.


    Just as he was slacking off, suddenly, his communicator on the desk started buzzing.


    Without much care, Qiu Tu reached for it and took a look.


    He found that he had received a message.


    The message was from Tang Feifei and it had just two words, "Done."


    At the sight of those words, Qiu Tu jumped up in surprise, staring at the screen of the communicator with joy! S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He was just about to call Tang Feifei to talk about the specific situation.


    But right at that moment, his other specially made communicator also rang.


    Qiu Tu picked it up curiously and saw.


    This time it was a message from Qin Shuman, "You''re locked in as Head of the Political Department, Director Dai wants to meet with you..."


    Qiu Tu:??


    Qiu Tu was no greenhorn.


    The first half of the sentence seemed unrelated to the second half, but at such a sensitive time, it could lead to speculation¡ªas if it was suggesting that Qiu Tu''s appointment as Head of the Political Department was to his credit.


    ''What''s going on?''


    Before Qiu Tu could figure it out, another message from Qin Shuman came in, "The Director says he can tell you the real reason behind your promotion."


    ---------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words¡ªcraving for your Monthly Ticket! Next chapter between 4-5 am.

 Chapter 428 - 294: The Truth Behind the Promotion? (10k words plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    Seeing Qin Shuman''s second message, Qiu Tu had a bunch of question marks above his head: ??


    Could he tell himself the inside story of his promotion?


    Wasn''t his promotion this time operated by the "Fengtian Faction" that Tang Feifei belonged to?


    Could there be something else he didn''t know about?


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was actually curious.


    So, he picked up the special communicator and directly replied to Qin Shuman''s message, "Where?"


    Qin Shuman, "In half an hour, Room 618 at Milan Grand Hotel."


    Qiu Tu replied in a second, "I''m not very good at renting rooms with men."


    Qin Shuman on the other end of the communicator saw Qiu Tu''s improper comment, shook her head with a smile, and then replied, "There''s always a first time for everything. Just hand over what you need to."


    Qiu Tu, "How about your True Body then? When can you give it to me? I''m the Head of the Political Department now; I should be able to ask for an objective, right?"


    The Military, Security Department, Intelligence Center.


    Qin Shuman looked at the message sent by Qiu Tu and was momentarily lost in thought.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu''s progress had truly been beyond her expectations.


    She distinctly remembered that just a few months ago, Qiu Tu was still an ordinary Second-Class Investigator.


    And yet, she was already a section chief of the investigation division.


    A few months later, although she was about to be promoted to the head of the Security Department, Qiu Tu was also becoming the Head of the Political Department.


    Thinking back on their one-night affair... uh, and the subsequent second and third nights...


    Although everything was a mix-up, Qiu Tu really was the first man in her life. He was also the first to let her experience the joy of being a woman.


    However... due to her family reasons, she had always constrained herself from crossing the line in their relationship and kept her True Body away from Qiu Tu.


    But it seemed the more she did this, the more Qiu Tu saw her True Body as a target.


    ''This lecher...''


    With a smile on her lips, Qin Shuman shook her head lightly and replied, "Head of the Political Department is still too low, wait until you''re the Bureau Chief."


    ...


    Meanwhile. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Qiu Tu looked at the message sent by Qin Shuman and his eyes lit up: Bureau Chief?!


    As long as he became Bureau Chief, could he sleep with Qin Shuman''s True Body?


    Thinking of the beauty and valiant temperament of Qin Shuman''s True Body, which he had seen once, Qiu Tu got a bit excited.


    The first time he had helped Qin Shuman recover her body, he missed out on the thrill of having both sculptures at once and regretted it immensely afterward.


    Hence, he had been wanting to find an opportunity to get closer to Qin Shuman over these past few months.


    Unexpectedly, Qin Shuman seemed to have seen through his intentions and kept him from contacting her True Body.


    This indeed made Qiu Tu a bit desirous...


    But now, having finally received Qin Shuman''s promise, Qiu Tu felt as if he had a goal!


    Bureau Chief, ah! It was just two ranks away from him! Qiu Tu felt full of drive!


    With this thought, he happily hummed a song as he went downstairs, drove off, and prepared to meet the legendary Director Dai at the Milan Grand Hotel...


    ...


    In these past months, Qiu Tu had become a celebrity of the Investigation Bureau, attracting many gazes wherever he went.


    This time was no exception.


    As soon as he left the office, he received many looks from the Investigators and section chiefs.


    However, unlike the previous flattery and obsequiousness, their gazes were full of sympathy this time...


    While they still saluted Qiu Tu respectfully and greeted him, the sincerity of their eyes could not be faked.


    In their hearts, Qiu Tu... was already finished.


    Since Qiu Tu already knew the outcome of the situation, he didn''t pay much attention to these sympathetic looks.


    On the contrary, he felt these gazes were too tame. According to common sense, shouldn''t there be a few lowlifes who would come out to mock him, only for him to end up turning the tables on them?


    And just as Qiu Tu was thinking this, someone actually did call out to him, "Chief Qiu, hello..."


    Hearing that person''s voice, Qiu Tu stopped and looked at the person in front of him.


    It was a young man of about eighteen or nineteen.


    He wore a pair of black-framed glasses held together with tape and had a refined appearance.


    After calling out to Qiu Tu, he stepped forward, handed over a card, and said in a low voice, "I am Miao Feng from the Logistic Management Division of the Administrative Office. If there''s anything you need from me, please feel free to command."


    From a certain perspective, this was actually equivalent to pledging allegiance.


    So, seeing this, Qiu Tu was somewhat surprised as he looked at Miao Feng.


    But Miao Feng looked at Qiu Tu with a calm face.


    Noticing this, Qiu Tu accepted the card from Miao Feng with a smile. It had Miao Feng''s name, age, position, and communicator number on it.


    To Qiu Tu''s slight surprise, Miao Feng was not just an ordinary investigator; he was a Deputy Director of the Logistics Equipment Section of the Administrative Office.


    And that was no ordinary position but one of the most critical departments in the Administrative Office and even the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Being able to serve as a Deputy Director in the Logistics Equipment Section, Miao Feng was evidently not a simple character.


    Therefore, this made Qiu Tu respect Miao Feng a little more.


    With this in mind, he took the card, patted Miao Feng on the shoulder with a smile, nodded, then headed for the elevator.


    Regardless, Miao Feng showing the guts to come to him at his most "dire" time meant something.


    Plus, since he was situated in such a critical department, Qiu Tu definitely had to treat him with caution...


    So, Qiu Tu decided to wait and study this person''s background and intelligence to see if he could take him as a confidant...


    With that thought, the elevator doors slowly closed.

 Chapter 429 - 294: The Truth Behind the Promotion? (10k words plea for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu looked at the Administrative Office investigators who were whispering to each other after he had left, his gaze indifferent.


    Individuals like Miao Feng who dared to take a gamble were, after all, in the minority; most ordinary people were already doing well if they didn''t kick someone when they were down....


    He took the elevator to the first floor, and instead of calling a driver, Qiu Tu got into his car and drove straight to the Milan Grand Hotel.


    Upon arriving at the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu obtained a room card for 618 from the service staff as if he knew the place well, then went up to the sixth floor and headed towards room 618....


    Arriving at the doorway of room 618, Qiu Tu gently knocked on the door.


    Shortly thereafter, the door opened and Lin Zuo appeared inside.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, he nodded slightly and then said, "The Director is waiting for you inside."


    After saying this, he took the initiative to step outside, making way for Qiu Tu.


    Since his "Crisis Intuition" did not signal an alarm, Qiu Tu naturally walked into the room.


    Inside the room, a man dressed in grass-green military uniform stood by the window, gazing at the distant scenery.


    With his back to Qiu Tu, his build was somewhat tall and imposing, not really fitting the image of a head of secret operations; he looked more like a general.


    "Director Dai?" Qiu Tu walked to a spot two steps away from Dai Yukang, came to a halt, and then asked softly.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s greeting, Dai Yukang slowly turned around.


    This was the first time Qiu Tu had seen the man whose name had not been prominent in Xinjie City and who had always operated behind the scenes.


    At the same time, information about Dai Yukang slowly surfaced in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    According to the introduction Tang Feifei had previously given to Qiu Tu,


    Dai Yukang was a rather legendary figure.


    He had originally been an adjutant to a minor warlord around Eighth Sanctuary. After the minor warlord was annexed by Speaker Rao Shou, he naturally became a member of the "Iron-Blood Faction."


    However, due to his humble origins and a style of conduct that didn''t quite fit with the Iron-Blood Faction, he remained somewhat unaccepted by them over the years.


    This allowed his remarkable abilities and service record to go unrecognized, resulting in promotions in "military rank" but not in "position."


    The highest military officers in other cities, such as Wang Hu, held only the rank of "Colonel," yet Dai Yukang was also a "Colonel." (Chapter 278)


    And because his contributions and rank were so high, he was considered the second most important person in the Xinjie City Military Department, second only to General Ye. In the Investigation Bureau, he would have the status of the first Deputy Director, even slightly higher than Tang Feifei''s. (Chapter 123) S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This was the result of his tenure as the head of the Security Department in three different cities.


    Only Ye Mingfeng, a Major General and a key figure of the "Iron-Blood Faction," had few who could hold authority over him.


    Otherwise, the heads of military departments in other cities would likely have been easily eclipsed by him.


    Add to that his decade-plus of working in secret operations, with no knowledge of leading troops into battle,


    Consequently, Dai Yukang had reached a point where he could no longer be promoted, and it was difficult to even find someone suitable to partner with him.


    It was already difficult to place him; unexpectedly, this time he had once again rendered a great service by launching, together with Ye Mingfeng, the "Boundless Heart Sea Exploitation Project."


    Thus.... just two days ago, at a high-level Sanctuary meeting, a legislator suggested that they should establish a fourth Deputy Speaker-level position within Xinjie: Director of the Security Bureau, specifically to accommodate Dai Yukang.


    His argument was well-founded: the Security Department, as the agency responsible for extraordinary events and matters related to the Evil God, was actually no less important than the other three major institutions.


    In the future, as invasions by the Evil God became more frequent, the significance of the Security Department would continue to increase.


    Previously, the Security Department was managed under the military but had little to do with it in terms of work nature.


    Therefore, it would be better to use this opportunity to consolidate the Security Departments of various cities into one, coordinated by a unified leader.


    This would be far more efficient and scientific than having them individually directed by the military departments of each city.


    This proposal received support from all factions except the Iron-Blood Faction and was eventually passed.


    As a result, Dai Yukang officially became the first Director of the Security Bureau and was at the forefront.


    Having recalled Dai Yukang''s background and information, Qiu Tu''s demeanor became even more respectful.


    While Qiu Tu was sizing up Dai Yukang, Dai Yukang was also taking measure of Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Qiu Tu standing resolutely and unpretentiously before him, and considering Qiu Tu''s recent maneuvers, Dai Yukang''s eyes betrayed a hint of appreciation.


    After a moment, he took the initiative to speak, "Qiu Tu, would you be interested in working at the Security Bureau?"


    Possibly because the invitation was so unexpected, even Qiu Tu was surprised.


    He couldn''t help looking at Dai Yukang.


    However, Dai Yukang seemed to have mentioned it casually, as he suddenly changed the subject. He asked, "Do you know how you came to be the Head of the Political Department?"


    Hearing Dai Yukang''s words, Qiu Tu slightly shook his head, then said, "I just received the news, so I really don''t know."


    Dai Yukang, hearing this, smiled and said, "Because of me."


    Qiu Tu looked at Dai Yukang, a question mark forming slowly in his mind: ?


    He didn''t disbelieve Dai Yukang; it was just that... there had been no prior connection between him and Dai Yukang. Dai Yukang''s sudden move to claim credit was indeed puzzling to him.


    Perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s confusion, Dai Yukang asked with a light smile, "You should already know about the meeting at the Head office''s Organizational Department, right?"


    Upon hearing Dai Yukang''s words, Qiu Tu was slightly startled but then nodded.


    On the way here, in order to avoid being outmaneuvered by Dai Yukang, he had made a special call to Tang Feifei to inquire about the meeting at the Head office''s Organizational Department.

 Chapter 430 - 294: The Truth Behind the Promotion? (10k words plea for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    When he found out that there were four factions helping him, he was truly stunned.


    He had asked Tang Feifei why this was happening, but Tang Feifei obviously had no idea either. So, Qiu Tu was able to suppress his doubts.


    Now that Dai Yukang was asking, he answered truthfully, "Yes, Director Dai."


    Dai Yukang asked further, "What you must be most curious about now is why Councilor Ouyang would come out to help you, right?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Dai Yukang smiled and said, "Because it was Elder Wang who sought him out."


    "Elder Wang?!" Qiu Tu was now utterly confused by Dai Yukang''s tangential topics.


    He couldn''t help asking, "But why would Elder Wang help me?"


    "And how did he know I needed help?"


    After speaking, a light of realization flashed before Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Piecing together what Dai Yukang had just said, he suddenly understood...


    Liu Xiongyuan''s retreat had cut his ties with the "Reformist Faction."


    And Dai Yukang must have guessed the connection between Qiu Tu and the "Reformist Faction" through Qiu Tu''s relationship with Liu Xiongyuan.


    Therefore, he took the initiative to contact Elder Wang and explained Qiu Tu''s situation.


    After learning that Qiu Tu needed help, Elder Wang probably weighed the pros and cons and ultimately decided to lend a hand.


    That was why Councilor Ouyang appeared.


    So... that was why Elder Wang''s secretary had secretly told Zhou Jingfu that Elder Wang valued Qiu Tu highly.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt as if everything was falling into place.


    And there was one last bug in all this...


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu couldn''t resist looking at Dai Yukang and asking, "Director Dai, are you actually a member of the ''Reformist Faction,'' not the ''Iron-Blood Faction''?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, a look of appreciation appeared on Dai Yukang''s face.


    He didn''t answer directly, instead saying lightly, "We all strive for the Sanctuary, for humanity. Does the faction really matter?"


    Having said that, he circled back to the original subject, "How about it? Would you like to come help me at the Security Bureau now?"


    He stated, "Of course, the Security Bureau is a secret front and will not publicly disclose identities."


    "So, your public position will still be as Head of the Political Department of Xinjie City."


    "I will only call on you to help with cases involving Evil Gods and Supernatural Power." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His gaze was profound as if he could see through the human heart, "Once the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Project'' is launched, Xinjie City is sure to become a focal point of attention for all Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods."


    "When that time comes, some Cataclysmic Creatures, Evil Gods might infiltrate or descend upon Xinjie City."


    "This will bring a great deal of harm to Xinjie City."


    As he said this, he paused, "Rain Butterfly''s ability is decent, but it''s still very difficult to handle this complex situation."


    "Therefore, I want you to act as the undercover supervisor for the Security Bureau in Xinjie City, watching over Rain Butterfly''s work at the Security Department."


    "If she does well, then all will be well."


    "If she doesn''t perform adequately... you can take over at any time and directly command the entire Security Department''s work in Xinjie City."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was shocked, looking towards Dai Yukang.


    Dai Yukang just looked at Qiu Tu with a light smile, as if those words were not his own.


    Silence... a prolonged silence...


    After quietly thinking for a while, Qiu Tu finally spoke slowly, "May I ask, if I do not accept this position of responsibility..."


    He did not finish his sentence, but Dai Yukang had already continued, "I will still arrange for someone to take care of the related work in Xinjie City."


    "After all, the future of Xinjie City is too important to allow any loss."


    Feeling Dai Yukang''s words, Qiu Tu faced for the first time the full measure of the legendary director''s schemes.


    This was not seeking his opinion at all; everything had been calculated to ensnare him...


    ---------


    Chapter of 10,000 words, ha! Asking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 431 - 295: Madam, You Cant Do This... (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Qiu Tu recalled the several minutes of his meeting with Dai Yukang.


    As soon as they met, Dai Yukang launched into his purpose by forcefully suggesting that Qiu Tu should help him at the Security Bureau.


    This not only seized the momentum but also planted a subliminal suggestion in Qiu Tu''s subconscious, facilitating the final plan.


    Then, he redirected the conversation back, starting to bridge their relationship by offering to help Qiu Tu secure the position of Head of the Political Department, making it clear to Qiu Tu that they were on the same side.


    Finally, he brought the conversation back to the original topic, once again proposing that Qiu Tu help him at the Security Bureau.


    This time, he upped the ante, not only offering Qiu Tu a position that matched his current status, but also using the closely related Qin Shuman as a "threat" to squeeze Qiu Tu''s room for maneuver.


    If Qiu Tu did not accept, he would arrange for someone else to take the position. If Qin Shuman made a mistake, she would be taken down.


    But if Qiu Tu accepted, then everything would be easily managed.


    If Qin Shuman made a mistake, Qiu Tu would either replace her,


    or he would have to clean up after her.


    Either choice was a win for Dai Yukang.


    The former meant he had effectively pulled Qiu Tu into the camp of the Security Bureau.


    The latter... what difference was there from entering the Security Bureau? Either way, he would be working there.


    ''Such a brilliant move... such a brilliant move... truly worthy of the legendary director from the covert front lines.''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also analyzed the pros and cons of taking up this position.


    The downside was simple: he would now be firmly in the camp of the military and the Security Bureau.


    Often, he would have to act in the interests of the Security Bureau.


    Moreover, there might be more tasks assigned to occupy his time.


    However, compared to the disadvantages, the benefits were greater.


    First of all, having this position within the Security Bureau that corresponded to the Director of the Political Department gave Qiu Tu insurance:


    Even if he couldn''t get by in the Investigation Bureau system, was demoted, or even dismissed, he still had the Security Bureau as a safety net.


    Neither his position nor his power would change much.


    Secondly, after all, the Security Bureau was in charge of Evil God incidents and supernatural cases. To explore the supernatural power of this world more deeply and understand its secrets, one must be involved in this department.


    Moreover, in a world with Supernatural Power, the status of this department within the national system would only grow higher. The Sanctuary''s current attempt to elevate the overall status of the Security Bureau was a sign of this.


    Thus, joining a department in such a period of growth would clearly be better for Qiu Tu''s future development.


    And lastly, and most importantly...


    The Security Department is a secret department of the military, while the Political Department is also the Investigation Bureau''s secret department.


    Moreover, both departments are responsible for espionage, counter-espionage, intelligence, and supervision.


    Originally, these two departments were somewhat like the Eastern Factory and Western Factory, with a relationship of mutual oversight and competition to prevent either from growing too strong.


    And now... if both departments were under his control.


    Then... he would hold almost all the intelligence of the three major institutions; he could declare someone guilty or innocent at his discretion.


    Also, with espionage and supervision in his hands, he could investigate and interrogate any official below the division level at will.


    Such power would be formidable!


    Even now, realizing that he was about to grasp such formidable power, Qiu Tu was somewhat shocked by Dai Yukang''s actions: what kind of monster did he want to create?


    What exactly did he want to do...?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu''s mind wandered to more doubts: Was the truth behind his promotion really as Dai Yukang had said? S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Was Dai Yukang truly a person from the Reformist Faction?


    Was it really Elder Wang that Dai Yukang had contacted?


    Could it be that he merely knew or guessed the truth of the matter and wanted to use the information asymmetry to achieve some purpose?


    With such thoughts, Qiu Tu became even more cautious.


    However, now that they had come face to face,


    and since... the other party had not shown any malice, Qiu Tu felt that he could go ahead and accept the tempting offer and embrace the olive branch.


    It''s foolish not to take advantage of what''s given!


    Even if it''s a sugar-coated bullet, one can eat the sugar coating first before sending the bullet back!


    Moreover... it seemed that he didn''t have many other options anyway.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, despite still having numerous doubts, had already made his decision.


    He came back to his senses, then smiled and saluted Dai Yukang, "Then I''ll have to ask the superior to take good care of me in the future."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Dai Yukang nodded with satisfaction, a smile lurking in his eyes...


    Having confirmed their allegiance, Dai Yukang turned and took out a dossier bag that had been prepared earlier from behind for Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu took the dossier bag, opened it, and pulled out the documents.


    The documents were internal materials from the Security Bureau, mainly introducing the work, authority, and various departments and personnel arrangement of the Security Bureau and the Security Department of Xinjie City.


    The introduction was very detailed, including many secrets.


    Just by looking at this material, one could feel the sincerity of Dai Yukang.


    Qiu Tu read through it carefully, then committed everything to memory.


    Afterwards, following "industry rules," he took out a lighter and burned the documents in front of Dai Yukang.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu once again saluted Dai Yukang and then left the hotel room.


    According to the agreement between the two, Qiu Tu''s most important task was to first take control of the Political Department.

 Chapter 432 - 295: Madam, You Cant Do This... (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After the establishment of Dongye State and the Security Bureau, Dai Yukang would handle all related procedures for Qiu Tu, and the appointment documents would be sent over.


    By then, Qin Shuman would also officially become the chief of the Xinjie City Security Department.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu would be able to contact Qin Shuman via special communication channels using his supervisor identity at the Security Bureau, or even remotely direct the work of the Xinjie City Security Department.


    As for whether Qiu Tu would reveal his true identity to Qin Shuman during their communication and direction, that would be entirely up to Qiu Tu to decide.


    Dai Yukang had only one requirement: after his departure, the Xinjie City Security Department must stand firm! And during the "Boundless Heart Sea development" period, they must make the contributions they ought to....


    After descending the stairs and leaving the hotel, Qiu Tu drove back to the Investigation Bureau in silence, all the while quietly recalling all the details of his interactions with Dai Yukang....


    Back at the Investigation Bureau, the agents'' attitude toward Qiu Tu was still lukewarm. Although no one was foolish enough to ridicule him outright, their behavior was respectful yet distant.


    This was, after all, the normal state of things.


    However.... upon arriving at his 11th-floor office in the Administrative Office, Qiu Tu was slightly taken aback.


    Because.... someone was standing at the door of his office, waiting for him¡ªTan Huimin.


    Today''s Tan Huimin seemed even more beautiful than before.


    She still wore her hair in a young wife''s bun, revealing her graceful swan neck. Her fair, oval face was the picture of gentle refinement.


    Perhaps because she did not have to seduce Qiu Tu on her husband''s orders today, she had changed into an Investigation Bureau agent''s uniform.


    Only, because the uniform fit her too well, it did nothing to conceal the substantial heft of her chest beneath.


    When she saw Qiu Tu, her face squeezed out a smile, and she took the initiative to approach him.


    In fact, since yesterday when he had given the Zheng Tao files to Tan Huimin and sent her to the Security Department, Qiu Tu had thought that their relationship and fate had come to an end.


    Although he was still somewhat covetous of the beautiful young wife, he considered himself to have some lines he wouldn''t cross: he would take advantage of an enemy''s woman if he could; but when it came to regular women, if they weren''t willing, he wouldn''t force them.


    There were plenty of women in the world, and he had no reason to stoop to deplorable acts.


    Later, when Tan Huimin disappeared for an entire day and did not show up today, Qiu Tu naturally assumed that after figuring everything out, she had left.


    Who would have thought... the duck that had flown away would fly back?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced over Tan Huimin twice, then nodded and casually commented, "That''s more like it."


    "You coming to work dressed like that every day had caused quite a stir among the investigators of the Investigation Bureau downstairs."


    "In their eyes, I''m probably becoming a devil amongst devils."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin smiled gently, then said, "The chief is no devil amongst devils, but rather... an angel amongst devils."


    Surprised by Tan Huimin''s jesting remark, Qiu Tu hadn''t expected that in just one day, she appeared to be a completely different person.


    What exactly had she been through?


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t sit idle; he "tsked" and retorted, "Well, whether it''s a devil or an angel, I''m just a lecher in disguise, huh?"


    The two of them chatted casually as they made their way to the office.


    Qiu Tu took out his keys, opened the office door, and walked in.


    Inside the office, Qiu Tu casually tossed the keys on the desk and, seemingly indifferent, pointed to his spartan new office, remarking, "I was just transferred to this clean government office, and the conditions are somewhat lacking."


    "But, since you''ll be in charge of secretarial tasks, I''ll transfer you back to the Administrative Office in a couple of days. You won''t have to suffer alongside me."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin swiftly walked to the desk, picked up the keys Qiu Tu had just thrown there, and said, "Chief, I would like to continue being your secretary."


    Turning around, Qiu Tu looked at the beautiful young woman in surprise and repeated, "Perhaps I didn''t make myself clear. I am no longer the powerful vice minister of the Political Department I used to be."


    "Your husband has also been arrested."


    "So... you don''t need to complete his mission and continue to stay by my side. Moreover, even if you did stay, I wouldn''t be able to bring you any benefits anymore." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin smiled rather freely, saying, "Chief, I am not here to fulfill anyone''s mission, nor have I thought of gaining anything from you."


    She continued, "I am just very grateful to you. You made me realize the truth."


    Biting her lip, with a hint of hatred in her eyes, Tan Huimin expressed, "And you no longer allowed Zheng Tao to deceive me."


    At this point, she looked at Qiu Tu tenderly and said, "That''s why... I want to repay you."


    "You''ve hit rock bottom right now, so let me help you, take care of you," she offered.


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Qiu Tu felt that people in this world were all rather strange.


    Even though he was clearly out of favor, one by one, they were flocking to his side.


    Anyone unaware would think he was about to be appointed Bureau Chief!


    However, he really didn''t want any more complications, so he waved his hand dismissively, and while sitting down in his office chair, he said, "No need. I appreciate the sentiment."


    "The few things I did for you... consider them compensation for my uncalled-for behavior before I knew the truth," he stated.


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu picked up the files on his desk and, without looking up, continued, "Moreover, I''m fine now. I don''t need you to take care of me or help me out."

 Chapter 433 - 295: Madam, You Cant Do This... (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "Live your life in peace,"


    Despite Qiu Tu''s refusal, Tan Huimin didn''t turn around to leave.


    She turned around, locked the office door from the inside, and then violently tore off her uniform.


    Under her uniform jacket was nothing, exposing Tan Huimin''s exquisite figure in full clarity.


    Qiu Tu heard a noise and looked up, startled by the sight.


    The scandalous image contrasted sharply with the solemn blue uniform.


    At that moment, Tan Huimin boldly stepped up to Qiu Tu''s desk and then squatted down.


    While squatting, she looked up at Qiu Tu, "Chief, I remember... I once promised to get under your desk, to serve you..."


    Qiu Tu: ??


    For a moment, Qiu Tu was embarrassed; he said, "Madam, please respect yourself, we can''t do this..."


    But at that time, Tan Huimin, as if possessed, actually slid under Qiu Tu''s desk and started to reach for Qiu Tu''s trousers.


    Qiu Tu truly hadn''t expected that after learning a single truth, the previously resistant Tan Huimin would become so proactive.


    With a bitter smile, he grabbed Tan Huimin''s hand and said, "Madam, at that time I wasn''t aware of the truth and mistook you for the enemy''s wife."


    "That''s why I made such presumptuous advances."


    "Please don''t take it seriously."


    As Qiu Tu spoke, Tan Huimin''s eyes reddened.


    Looking up with tears "plop plop" falling down, she said, "Chief, then just pretend I am still his wife!"


    "Please, I want to take revenge! I want to take cruel revenge on him!"


    "Please, help me take my revenge!"


    Qiu Tu: ... Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was only now that Qiu Tu began to guess at Tan Huimin''s state of mind.


    That day, she must have learned the truth from Zheng Tao''s own mouth.


    Upon discovering that Zheng Tao had not only sold his soul to the Evil God and used an extraordinary treasure but also slaughtered her entire family for his own gain, she probably collapsed.


    The only thing keeping her going was vengeance, retribution!


    However... merely killing Zheng Tao clearly wouldn''t soothe Tan Huimin''s emotions.


    So she wanted Zheng Tao to live and to give herself to Qiu Tu, to make Zheng Tao suffer the ultimate humiliation.


    And even... since Zheng Tao had lost his ability to father children, if she could bear a child for Qiu Tu, it would probably infuriate Zheng Tao to the extreme.


    Understanding all this, Qiu Tu sighed softly.


    His grip slowly relaxed, and finally, he stopped resisting...


    Right or wrong, he couldn''t tell anymore. All he knew was that the flower before him was blooming brilliantly, and if he didn''t facilitate it, he would seem insensible to passion...


    It must be said, Tan Huimin definitely had a face adept at serving others.


    One word from her made Qiu Tu feel incredibly comfortable.


    The only thing that Qiu Tu found hard to endure was that she seemed a bit too eager.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu could only tightly grasp the two round "handles," rubbing them while silently indulging in the pleasure...


    So they spent the afternoon in the locked office in abandoned revelry.


    Lust is like a bone-scraping knife, but it is well known, Qiu Tu was born with tough bones...


    ...


    Thus, the day passed quickly.


    By late afternoon, just before the end of the working day, word began to spread among the mid and senior ranks of the Investigation Bureau¡ªQiu Tu seemed to have been promoted to Head of the Political Department.


    The news first circulated internally on the 12th floor of the Investigation Bureau Head office building.


    It was said that a senior official happened to mention the news unintentionally while reporting to the Head office over the phone.


    Then it started to spread gradually among the middle and upper ranks.


    When discussing privately, they clearly had trouble believing it.


    After all, Qiu Tu had just been relieved of his position as the Deputy Director of the Political Department this morning, and now he was Director by evening?


    That just didn''t make sense!


    What was the purpose of such a move by the higher-ups? Just to slap Bureau Chief Yan in the face?


    But... things obviously didn''t change according to their wishes.


    Shortly after the rumor spread, an appointment letter for the position of Director of the Political Department came down from the Head office...


    -----


    2 chapters, 10,000 words, asking for Monthly Tickets, ha!

 Chapter 437 - 297: Major Event! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu was suddenly startled.


    Summoned to the "Boundless Heart Sea" as a collective?


    No wonder Qiu Tu always found that primitive forest eerily "familiar."


    When he was making plans to ambush Larilo, he had asked Liu Xiongyuan in detail about the terrain and appearance of the area in Xinjie City that corresponded to the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    Liu Xiongyuan had mentioned that the corresponding area in Xinjie City was a lush primitive forest, brimming with the breath of life.


    It was probably for this reason that it had attracted Larilo.


    Originally, Qiu Tu had thought about exploring the primitive jungle after becoming a Third Order Cataclysmic, to admire the "Boundless Heart Sea" scenery.


    To his surprise, he had unintentionally experienced it last night....


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu regained his composure and then asked, "Who summoned our consciousness to the ''Boundless Heart Sea''?"


    "Why did he do that?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Qin Shuman spoke seriously from the other end of the phone, "Not sure."


    "Right now, the Bureau is researching it while reporting to the Sanctuary."


    "According to Director Dai, this is likely a response from the ''Boundless Heart Sea.''


    "He recalled seeing top-secret information from other Sanctuaries, which had records of such phenomena."


    "The main reason is said to be the demise of a High Order Cataclysmic Creature in the corresponding region of the Boundless Heart Sea, and that no other High Order Cataclysmic Creature has taken over that region.


    "Therefore, the Boundless Heart Sea summons all the Cataclysmics in that area."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s mind stirred slightly, and then he asked, "These summoned Cataclysmics.... will they produce a new Regional Controller?"


    Qin Shuman perhaps hadn''t anticipated Qiu Tu''s quick thinking.


    When she conducted her investigation and inquiries today, most of the Cataclysmics were more or less concerned about being suddenly pulled into the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Their most frequent questions to Qin Shuman and the Security Department officials were about whether there was a risk to their lives, or whether they would never return once summoned.


    However, when it came to Qiu Tu, he went straight to asking whether it was possible to become a Regional Controller.


    For a moment, Qin Shuman felt a twinge of admiration: no wonder Qiu Tu was promoted quickly.


    With his ability to seize opportunities, how many in Xinjie City could compare?


    With that in mind, she explained, "That''s what Director Dai said."


    "Director Dai said that the research direction of other Sanctuaries regarding unclaimed regions of the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' is how to control a region like an Evil God."


    "However, he is not clear about the specifics of how far that research has progressed."


    "So, that''s why he reported the incident to the Sanctuary as soon as it happened."


    "It is said that the Sanctuary has already dispatched a team of experts in advance."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman was noticeably tired.


    She rubbed her temples and said, "I suddenly don''t know whether my plan is good or bad."


    "I always feel that I might have underestimated the upcoming changes in Xinjie City."


    "There could be some events that we haven''t anticipated."


    Pausing for a moment, Qin Shuman then said, "By the way, accompanying the experts is a deputy director from the Organizational Department of your General Investigation Bureau."


    "Your appointment will be issued by him personally."


    "However...." Qin Shuman paused, "Because of today''s events, your appointment will be low-key. There will only be a simple meeting with the middle and senior management."


    Qiu Tu was indifferent to this. He never wanted to draw attention in the first place.


    As someone who worked in the shadows, the more low-key he was, the safer.


    When he became a deputy director, The Five Elders had already reached out with an olive branch, and once he officially became a director, who knows how many powers, how many eyes would be watching him.


    By then, there would be an endless array of tactics such as financial incentives, emotional appeals, Beauty Trap, Beauty Trap, Beauty Trap....


    Even though Qiu Tu was always firm, he couldn''t withstand so many blade scrapings.


    So, it was better to keep a low profile.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu briefly chatted with Qin Shuman before hanging up the phone. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With such a major incident having occurred last night, the Security Department must be overwhelmed.


    The information Qin Shuman had shared with him definitely couldn''t be told to others.


    So they must be seeking some sort of "official" explanation.


    Since Cataclysmics are usually division chiefs or higher, simple explanations wouldn''t suffice.


    The Security Department needed to come up with a way to calm things down.


    Therefore, Qin Shuman was likely to be very busy today, and Qiu Tu felt it inappropriate to bother her any longer.


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu sat down in the chair, lit a cigarette, and slowly smoked it while pondering over the "Boundless Heart Sea Summoning" incident.


    Although the full details of the incident had yet to be clarified, Qiu Tu had faith in Dai Yukang''s intelligence capabilities.


    Since he said that last night''s summoning was due to the Boundless Heart Sea''s area being without a master, thereby "summoning" and "selecting" from the region''s Cataclysmics.


    Then.... Qiu Tu felt it was almost certain.


    All that remained was to consider how this incident would affect him, Xinjie City, the Investigation Bureau, and the Security Department?


    Qiu Tu believed the first impact would definitely be unrest among the people.


    No one is without ambition¡ªespecially the Cataclysmics.


    It is known that the "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion" of this era comes with a risk of failure.


    If not ambitious, how could one risk death by taking the "Cataclysmic Awakening Potion"?


    Therefore, when a group of ambitious people encounter a chance that might "make them into gods," how could they not be stirred?

 Chapter 438 - 297: Major Event! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    They might employ various means within, or even beyond, the rules to achieve their goals.


    The second impact is... the changes in Xinjie City will likely spread, and Cataclysmics who are masters from the Anti-government Armed Forces such as United Front will probably also come to Xinjie City.


    The Sanctuary restricts the strength of officials to maintain their sanity to Third Order, but the Anti-government Armed Forces and the like have no such restrictions.


    Their masters might even have Fourth Order Existences.


    In addition, there might be some masters without factions who could also come.


    One could foresee that Xinjie City will likely become a gathering place for masters, becoming the focus of attention inside and outside the Sanctuary!


    Upon thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but suddenly remember Dai Yukang''s concern from yesterday that Qin Shuman might not be able to control her role, and how he had pulled Qiu Tu into the Security Bureau''s fold.


    This Old Fox must have foreseen all of this, knowing that Qin Shuman would likely be unable to handle such a huge storm, and that''s why he had coaxed Qiu Tu over.


    ''Indeed... these renowned masters are no ordinary people.''


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s mindset became quite peaceful.


    Now that he had the Political Department in his grasp, he could remotely command the Security Department with his "hidden identity" as a Supervisor of the Security Bureau. What did he have to worry about?


    The ones who needed to worry were those who thought about making underhanded moves!


    And the controller of the Boundless Heart Sea Region?


    Although Qiu Tu wasn''t sure if someone else might step in first,


    he still had the trump card, Larilo. Who else could be clearer on how to become the controller of a region than this Evil God?


    Qiu Tu felt it was impossible!


    So... Qiu Tu thought, even if a human could truly become the controller of the Boundless Heart Sea Region, it would definitely be him!


    Therefore, he pondered, he would go back tonight and coax Larilo again, to see if he could extract some intelligence...


    After completing all the analysis and planning, Qiu Tu returned to the resting room and took a bath.


    During the bath, Tan Huimin was woken up by the sound of the shower.


    Dragging her weary body, she felt her way to the bathroom and then began to wash Qiu Tu with consideration.


    However, what she didn''t know was that her actions would only reignite the battle.


    So, before long, the two of them, drenched, "let nature take its course," "got right to the point," and were "irreversibly entangled."


    Possibly grateful for Qiu Tu''s help in getting revenge on Zheng Tao during the past few days, Tan Huimin reciprocated Qiu Tu''s "small kindness" with a "fountain of gratitude..."


    Truth be told, Qiu Tu was no stranger to wildness. His sessions with Tang Feifei, when they were training in martial arts, would be wilder. But... that was because they were Cataclysmics with good physical fitness, which made it possible to be wild.


    But now, Tan Huimin was just an ordinary person. Yet she acted just like Tang Feifei, as if she were completely reckless.


    Even... at certain moments, Qiu Tu felt she hoped she would just die like this...


    Clearly, although she turned all her love for Zheng Tao into hatred after learning the truth, the anguish this caused in her heart still hadn''t been relieved....


    Qiu Tu didn''t know how to persuade her, so he could only act in kind, trying to accommodate her without hurting her as much as possible...


    In this way, once again satisfying Tan Huimin thoroughly, Qiu Tu finally made her content...


    As the appointment hadn''t come through yet, even though everyone in the whole bureau already knew that Qiu Tu not only had returned to the Political Department but had also become its "king"! Yet... Qiu Tu was still just a Deputy Division Chief of the Lengshui Yamen.


    In this way, the day quickly passed.


    Perhaps because the ''Boundless Heart Sea Summoning'' event was too significant,


    the Sanctuary''s expert team arrived in Xinjie City by the afternoon.


    Coming along with the expert team was Zhou Jingfu, the Deputy Division Chief of the Organizational Department of the General Investigation Bureau.


    This pivotal figure of the Fengtian Faction was clearly there to show support for Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    So, although Yan Chen had arranged for the large conference room to be prepared and set up according to regulations and sent out the notices, his disposition was far from enthusiastic...


    But whether he was enthusiastic or not, everything was already ordained.


    So... at 7 p.m.,


    on the 11th floor of the Investigation Bureau, in the largest conference room, S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    all the mid-level and high-level staff of the Investigation Bureau assembled.


    Although this meeting was high-level, it didn''t matter compared to the large structure of the Investigation Bureau.


    Thus, starting with Deputy Staff Directors and Deputy Directors of the Public Security Office, still three to four hundred people gathered.


    These three to four hundred people crowded in the venue, looking up at the nine people on stage: eight high-level executives and the Deputy Division Chief of the Organizational Department of the Head office, Zhou Jingfu.


    Among them, they looked at Qiu Tu the most.


    Even though they had learned everything as early as yesterday, when they saw Qiu Tu truly become the Head of the Political Department, they still felt as if in another world.


    After all, it was only the day before yesterday when Qiu Tu was dismissed from his position as Deputy Division Chief...


    During the meeting, Zhou Jingfu briefly praised several high-level executives of Xinjie City and then emphasized Qiu Tu''s career.


    Finally, on behalf of the sanctuary, he conveyed the new appointment to Qiu Tu.


    Because the Sanctuary had not received an application for a change of Qiu Tu''s position prior to this, his original position when announcing his appointment was still "Deputy Director of the Political Department."


    This not only made the mid- and high-level executives sitting below exchange odd glances but also once again slapped Yan Chen''s face...


    But today''s Yan Chen looked as if he had long been prepared for everything and was sitting comfortably in the central position on the stage, his wrinkled face devoid of any expression.

 Chapter 439 - 297: Major Event! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    It was as if the slap hadn''t landed on his own face.


    Even though the middle and senior managers in the room were stealing glances at him or observing him out of the corner of their eyes, his expression remained unchanged....


    And after handing out the awards on stage, Zhou Jingfu also kindly patted Qiu Tu on the shoulder, even going so far as to encourage him a few words in front of all the middle and senior managers with a beaming smile.


    This level of warmth exceeding the normal superior-subordinate boundary made the faces of those present even more peculiar.


    But it wasn''t over yet.


    The middle-level managers present might not have known about Zhou Jingfu''s faction, but the senior managers did¡ª¡ªthe Fengtian Faction, the faction where Tang Feifei''s family belonged.


    So, when they saw Zhou Jingfu being so enthusiastic towards Qiu Tu, they just thought Zhou Jingfu was doing it to save face for Tang Feifei.


    As a result.... when Zhou Jingfu completed his task and was leaving, he was only slightly more enthusiastic towards Tang Feifei than he was towards others...


    This instantly shattered the expectations of all the senior managers who were in the know.


    What was going on? Why would a big shot from the Fengtian Faction be more enthusiastic toward Qiu Tu than toward Tang Feifei?


    Hadn''t they promoted Qiu Tu because of Tang Feifei?


    Could it be that Qiu Tu had some other identity?


    With these heavy questions in mind, the internal meeting began in a simple manner and ended just as simply.


    But while the meeting was brief, its impact was profound.


    Everyone knew that a powerful figure, notorious for his lawless conduct, had officially stepped onto the core stage of the Investigation Bureau!


    What far-reaching impact he would bring to the Investigation Bureau, no one knew....


    What kind of drastic changes he would bring to the political landscape of Xinjie City were also unknown....


    What everyone did know was.... a storm was brewing, and perhaps the skies of Xinjie City were about to change!


    And this signal of change came so swiftly that no one had anticipated it.


    At the end of the meeting, as several senior managers rose to see Zhou Jingfu out, Qiu Tu gave Tan Huimin, who was sitting in the secretary area, a meaningful glance.


    The two had been in perfect accord over the past few days, so when Tan Huimin received Qiu Tu''s hint, she immediately nodded, then got up and walked over to the area of the Political Department.


    Facing Deputy Ministers Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian, as well as several heads and deputy heads of sections, she said in a voice that everyone in the room could hear, with an efficient expression, "Deputy Minister Cai, Vice Minister Zhang, all section heads, Minister Qiu will be listening to reports from each department alone tomorrow morning and will begin the preliminary adjustment work." sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Please make the necessary preparations and adjust your schedules accordingly, and wait for my notification."


    Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, the faces of Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian darkened.


    Both of them had hoped to succeed Jia Shu and become the new Head of the Political Department.


    So they had not only prepared themselves mentally to become the department head but also maintained a semblance of civility and relations with each other.


    They had planned everything well and felt like there couldn''t be any other developments.


    But who knew! Qiu Tu suddenly came out of left-field and snatched away the position of department head.


    This turn of events took them by surprise, and at the same time, it left them feeling incredibly frustrated.


    However, considering the attitude of the big shot from the Head office towards Qiu Tu on stage;


    And thinking of Qiu Tu''s ability to turn the tide and slap Yan Chen''s face as easily as slapping a woman''s bottom;


    Even if they were unwilling, they could only suppress it for now. So, in the gaze of all the middle and senior managers who were watching, they nodded their heads with flushed faces.


    If they were compliant, the other section heads and deputy heads were even more so. Each one nodded or responded.


    However, judging by their solemn expressions, they were clearly feeling uneasy.


    Then, at that moment, suddenly a fair hand was raised.


    Along with that hand, Guan Xiao''s lazy voice also rang in everyone''s ears, "Is it only possible to do it tomorrow morning?"


    "I... Can I report to Minister Qiu tonight instead?"


    -------


    Still two chapters, 10,000 words ah! Mid-month plea for a Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 440 - 298: Capturing Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As soon as Guan Xiao spoke, the venue fell silent.


    The heads of the Political Department dared not show any change in expression, while Cai Peiyuan and Zhang Jian had looks of helplessness on their faces.


    Zhang Jian intended to scold Guan Xiao, telling her not to cause trouble, but as the words reached his lips, he remembered Guan Xiao''s witch-like behavior and her influential background; his mouth slowly closed again.


    As for the mid- to high-level managers from surrounding departments, upon hearing Guan Xiao''s fierce words, they were all curiously craning their necks to look over.


    However, as soon as they saw it was Guan Xiao, they immediately retracted their heads.


    Some old lechers coveted her fiery figure with greedy eyes but were spotted by companions nearby.


    The companions hastily pulled at them, whispering, "Got a death wish? That''s Guan Xiao."


    Upon hearing the reminder, the old lechers quickly withdrew their gazes, then bowed their heads, pretending nothing had happened.


    Tan Huimin saw everyone''s reactions and took it all in.


    But she... after all, was just a junior secretary recently trained by the Administrative Office; she did not understand Guan Xiao. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, she discreetly remembered the situation at hand while saying to Guan Xiao in a gentle voice, "Director, I will report your suggestion to the minister afterwards."


    "But whether he will agree, I''m not certain."


    Before she could finish her words, Guan Xiao slid her right hand''s forefinger and middle finger into her deep "V" cleavage.


    The next second, a card scented with her body fragrance was pinched out.


    With a coquettish smile, she placed the card at her lips and kissed it deeply.


    On the card listing her name, position, and communicator number, there was now a bright red lipstick mark.


    The lipstick mark was as red as blood, fierce as fire, as if it could burn everything.


    "Here~" Guan Xiao held the card between two fingers and extended it to Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin''s actions paused for a moment, but eventually, she still reached out and took the card still warm from Guan Xiao''s touch¡­


    ...


    After seeing off Zhou Jingfu, the meeting also came to an end.


    As Secretary Bai was currently being held in the Political Department''s Guard Room, Yu Zhengyi took his place and declared the meeting adjourned.


    The senior staff walked out, and secretaries followed one after another.


    When Tan Huimin came in front of him, Qiu Tu asked, "Did you explain everything?"


    In a gentle voice, Tan Huimin "hmm-ed" and then took out Guan Xiao''s card, saying, "This is from Section Chief Guan."


    "She asked if you were free tonight. She would like to report to you then."


    "Section Chief Guan?" murmuring this name, Qiu Tu had the image of a seductive woman appear in his mind.


    Some women are beautiful, some have good figures, but... none can be called a seductress.


    Because a seductress has one quality: "enticing"...


    This "enticing" isn''t a derogatory term; it means that every move she makes can tug at a man''s heart, possibly causing his heartbeat to quicken with just a small gesture.


    And Guan Xiao was that kind of woman.


    If she were just a seductress, Qiu Tu might not have paid extra attention to Guan Xiao. But she had other qualities, too.


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    She was the niece of the Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua, a favored prot¨¦g¨¦ of the former Head of the Political Department Jia Shu, and a powerful woman who single-handedly built the Political Department''s spy network.


    No one knew how many spies she had planted around or how many people''s weaknesses she held.


    Hence, she was both enticing and dangerous, both attracting men and deterring them from trifling with her.


    After recalling this woman''s profile, Qiu Tu turned back and looked at Guan Xiao in the meeting area of the Political Department.


    At that moment, a department head from another sector was engaging in an awkward conversation with Guan Xiao.


    "Director Guan, I keep dreaming about you these past few days. I..."


    The department head didn''t get to finish before Guan Xiao pretended to be surprised, "Oh, is that so? That can''t be good. How about... I find a master to exorcize the evil spirits for you?"


    "Director Zhang, haven''t you been possessed by some demon?"


    His face turning white then red, Director Zhang heard her words and quickly said with a forced smile, "You''re joking, Director Guan, joking. Oh, I remembered wrongly, I haven''t had any dreams these past few days..."


    Having said that, Director Zhang dashed away in a flash.


    As Guan Xiao watched Director Zhang leave, her gaze slowly shifted, and then locked with Qiu Tu''s from afar.


    The two of them, separated by most of the meeting room, held each other''s gaze.


    Guan Xiao seemed to have sensed Qiu Tu''s gaze already, her eyes showing no wavering.


    She brazenly threw a flirtatious look at Qiu Tu and then gestured for him to call her.


    Qiu Tu laughed softly.


    Then, in a voice that only Tan Huimin could hear, he quietly said, "Interesting..."


    After finishing, he didn''t respond to Guan Xiao, but instead turned and left the Investigation Bureau Office Building with Tan Huimin....


    ...


    Because Qiu Tu had been demoted and his position adjusted, and because the driver was feeling unsettled, Qiu Tu took the initiative to send him back to work as a clerk in the Administrative Office.


    This meant that Qiu Tu currently had no driver.


    He decided to pick a suitable driver from his confidants when he had the chance: a driver, like a secretary, was one of the closest people to him.


    He himself felt a bit uneasy about entrusting outsiders.


    For now... he could have Tan Huimin fill in temporarily.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu had Tan Huimin drive him back to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.

 Chapter 441 - 298: Capturing Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Xinjie City''s most significant matters currently were the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Plan" and the "Boundless Heart Sea Summoning Event."


    And both of these issues were inseparably linked to Larilo.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu thought about bamboozling Larilo again tonight to see if he could get some useful information from her.


    The reason Qiu Tu was so confident was because just this afternoon, with the arrival of the Sanctuary experts, the "Soul Shackles" arrived as well.


    This was the special Cataclysmic Treasure capable of binding consciousness and soul that Qin Shuman had requested from the Sanctuary two days ago.


    With this treasure, Larilo''s fate was entirely in Qiu Tu''s hands.


    Qiu Tu had already figured out how to use this Cataclysmic Treasure to pry information out of Larilo''s mouth.


    This would involve the use of his Golden Finger...


    Soon, driven by Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu arrived at Fang Tangtang''s villa.


    As he got out of the car and before he had even entered, Qiu Tu''s communicator began to ring. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ring ring ring..." The pleasant ringtone sounded especially crisp in the quiet night.


    Fang Tangtang inside the house heard the ring of the communicator and curiously looked outside.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu standing at the door, her eyes lit up slightly, and then she hurriedly walked out.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu also took out the communicator and looked down at it.


    It was... a call from Shen Lingshuang.


    Qiu Tu jumped, his conditioned reflex making him look up at Fang Tangtang, who had already reached the doorway.


    Fang Tangtang hadn''t noticed Qiu Tu''s communicator; she just stood there timidly, cautiously looking up at Qiu Tu with eyes brimming with affection...


    Looking at the girl''s eyes that were akin to those of a small deer.


    A thought involuntarily came to Qiu Tu''s mind: Love for someone can''t be hidden...


    Unfortunately, loving two people means you have to keep it hidden. Thus, Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Work call, go back inside and wait for me."


    After that, he took the communicator and turned to walk away.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang didn''t doubt him; she simply pursed her lips and gave Qiu Tu another one, two, three lingering glances, then lowered her head and went back into the villa.


    Seeing Fang Tangtang leave the doorway, Qiu Tu felt at ease and answered the call.


    As soon as the call connected, a complaining voice from Shen Lingshuang came through, "Qiu Tu... have you forgotten about me again!"


    "How many days has it been since you came home!"


    Qiu Tu''s experience as a twin-timing villain told him that sweet talking and giving reasons were the keys to mollifying a girl.


    Even if they say they don''t believe you verbally, as long as they have you in their heart, they will deceive themselves...


    With this thought, Qiu Tu coughed and then spoke, "Ling Shuang, how could I forget you. It''s just that I''ve been too busy with the promotion recently."


    "I simply haven''t had time to come home."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then half-truthfully said, "Moreover, in these past few days, the Evil God of our Xinjie City''s region has fallen."


    "And without a new Evil God coming to claim the territory, the area corresponding to the Boundless Heart Sea lacks a controller."


    "These past two days, all Cataclysmics in Xinjie City have been summoned to the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "So, right after wrapping up the work for my promotion, I had to deal with this event. It''s one thing after another, with no time to rest."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu even sighed and added, "I''ve been so busy these past few days that I''ve had no time for sleep. Truly exhausted."


    Originally, Qiu Tu just wanted to fob Shen Lingshuang off with this excuse, to inform her that he might not return home for the next few days.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as Shen Lingshuang heard Qiu Tu''s words, she exclaimed with a curious "Huh?"


    Then she asked, "The Evil God has fallen and been summoned by the Boundless Heart Sea? Are you in the ''Counter-Infiltration World''?"


    Upon hearing this professional term, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then he asked with some surprise, "Ling Shuang, do you know what that summoning is all about?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s proud streak came through over the phone.


    There, she slightly tilted her head and proudly said, "Of course~ "


    "Our Third Sanctuary once experienced a similar event. My father was the main person in charge of that event."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, the smile on Qiu Tu''s face became more and more brilliant...


    He felt Shen Lingshuang was truly his lucky star!


    Not only did she work diligently every day at home to create "Cataclysmic Potions" and "Cataclysmic Material" for him,


    but now she could also help him understand the research progress of the Third Sanctuary!


    This would save Qiu Tu a lot of detours.


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    It might even make his previous aspirations come true: to become the controller of the entire region.


    So, with that in mind, Qiu Tu eagerly asked, "Ling Shuang, come on, what information do you know?"


    However, Shen Lingshuang was not the kind of submissive girl that Fang Tangtang was; she had her strong convictions and purpose.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she chuckled "hehe" and said, "Want to know, huh? If you come home tonight, I''ll tell you~~"


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu calculated the time and, finding he could make it, readily agreed.


    "It''s a deal."


    "It''s a deal~~"


    After finishing the conversation with Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu put down the communicator and headed back into the villa.


    As he walked into the villa, Fang Tangtang was in the living room, propping her chin up, waiting for Qiu Tu.


    Seeing Qiu Tu return, her face bloomed with a shy yet somewhat happy smile, and then she timidly asked, "Qiu Tu, have you finished the call?"


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile and said, "Yes, it''s done. Nothing to worry about."

 Chapter 442 - 298: Capturing Larilo (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    After finishing his words, Qiu Tu glanced at the clock behind Fang Tangtang¡ªactually, he was sneaking a look to see if Larilo was still on Fang Tangtang.


    Seeing that Larilo was indeed there, Qiu Tu felt relieved.


    He proceeded with the original plan, "I''m going to take a shower first,"


    "I''m exhausted after a long day."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu touched Fang Tangtang''s head from up close and then walked to the bathroom with a smile.


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    Opening the door of the bathroom, Qiu Tu arranged the "Soul Shackles" around its perimeter according to the "manual" Qin Shuman had given him.


    Then he stripped naked and stood bare under the showerhead, beginning to shower.


    Halfway through the shower, feeling the timing was right, Qiu Tu suddenly called out towards the outside, "Tangtang? Tangtang?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s call, Fang Tangtang, who had been waiting outside, hurriedly voiced, "Yes?"


    Qiu Tu, from behind the door, said unceremoniously, "Come in and help me scrub my back."


    At the sound of Qiu Tu''s wolfish words, Fang Tangtang''s face turned slightly red.


    She wanted to act coy, but she was worried that it would upset Qiu Tu.


    So, after a brief hesitation, she finally pushed the bathroom door open and went inside.


    At this moment... Larilo, possessing Fang Tangtang, watched the two show affection, oblivious of the impending danger!


    Only when Fang Tangtang stepped into the trap Qiu Tu had set did Larilo realize something was wrong!


    But by then, it was too late!


    The moment he saw Larilo walk into the trap, Qiu Tu''s thoughts triggered the "Soul Shackles"!


    The next second, an ancient altar the size of a palm, engraved with bizarre runes, quietly rose up, and countless threads of spirit light woven together, sparkling with a ghostly blue radiance, appeared out of thin air, then ensnared Larilo!


    Larilo struggled in vain, but... now she was too weak to escape the clutches of this powerful Cataclysmic treasure.


    So, she could only watch in despair as the Soul Shackles captured her bit by bit, suspended her, and then pulled her towards the center of the palm-sized altar...


    Seeing that he had successfully captured Larilo, Qiu Tu finally let out a sigh of relief.


    He ignored Larilo, who was now trapped inside the altar, glaring furiously and cursing at him.


    Then he reached out and pulled Fang Tangtang into the bathroom.


    Fang Tangtang exclaimed, unable to dodge in time, she was pulled into Qiu Tu''s embrace.


    The shower was still spraying droplets of water above. So, in less than two seconds, Fang Tangtang''s silk nightgown was soaked through. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Blushing, she crossed her arms over her chest, her head nearly buried in the deep cleavage, clearly extremely embarrassed.


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu, already happy from capturing Larilo, became even more elated.


    He hugged Fang Tangtang tightly and started to take a new kind of mandarin duck bath with her...


    In this way, with Larilo being a free spectator to an hour''s worth of interaction, Qiu Tu finally finished showering to his satisfaction and left the bathroom.


    After finding a spare nightgown for Fang Tangtang, Qiu Tu returned to the bathroom to dry her off and then let her go rest first.


    As for himself... there was still much to do tonight.


    After seeing Fang Tangtang off, Qiu Tu picked up the palm-sized altar containing the last remnants of Larilo''s consciousness and went to the study.


    Arriving in the study, he locked the door behind him.


    Qiu Tu sat down, then with a mocking smile, looked at Larilo, who was in a daze inside the altar, and teased, "Your Highness, long time no see..."


    "I didn''t expect you to have fallen on such hard times."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words and sensing his mockery, Larilo knew she had been duped again over the past few days.


    Perhaps knowing that things were "not looking good," she no longer cared, so she just opened her mouth and delivered a rap filled with all sorts of "you," "me," and "mother" to Qiu Tu...


    ------

 Chapter 443 - 299: Qiu: Larilo, Become My Servant (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Larilo''s classic rap, Qiu Tu sat back with his legs crossed, calmly seated there with a smile, listening contentedly.


    He didn''t care.


    The enemy''s breakdown was just an accolade of victory.


    Therefore, the fiercer Larilo cursed, the more pleasurable it was for Qiu Tu.


    After several minutes of cursing and noticing Qiu Tu was increasingly enjoying it, Larilo finally realized something was off.


    She stopped her profanities and, looking at Qiu Tu with disdain, said, "You''re not a masochist, are you?"


    "How come the more I curse at you, the happier you are?"


    As she said that, her eyes shifted, and then she sat down on the altar, stretching out her delicate little feet in a gesture of offering and said, "Would you like sister to step on your ding-ding with her little jojo?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    This Evil God is truly fucking perverted!


    Before Qiu Tu could even speak,


    Larilo''s crimson eyes shifted again, and then she said, "Of course, if you like things like little whips or candles, I can help you with that too."


    "But just a reminder, you have to buy the ''Low-Temperature Candle'' produced by the Fifth Sanctuary, definitely don''t just pick up a candlestick from the table and pour it directly on someone."


    "I had a believer who was stupid enough to pour a household candle on someone, scalding them so they screamed, stripped naked, and started fighting him."


    Qiu Tu: ???


    What the hell kind of bizarre knowledge is this?


    Why do I need to know this?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s face grew red with irritation.


    Larilo, mistaking his reaction for interest, smiled smugly, a trace of self-satisfaction gleaming in her crimson eyes. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Clearly, in the mind of this ''Life Reproduction'' path Evil God, there were all sorts of similar strange stories.


    If Qiu Tu were interested, she could take his XP to the extreme.


    So, feeling very confident, she began, "Of course, if you are into bondage, I also have some....."


    As he listened to Larilo''s influx of messy knowledge, Qiu Tu began massaging his temples, feeling a headache coming on.


    Now, seeing Larilo about to embark on another topic, he quickly crossed his hands and said to Larilo, "Stop, stop."


    "Don''t fill my head with this bizarre knowledge, like I want to hear it or something...."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo was first stunned, then her face showed sheer astonishment. Clearly, she couldn''t understand why anyone wouldn''t appreciate this knowledge.


    Qiu Tu ignored Larilo''s expression. He felt it was best not to engage too much with this peculiar Evil God before him.


    He always felt like she was trying to "infect" and "assimilate" him in a very novel way.


    If he listened too much, he might fall into her trap.


    Even though Larilo''s expression remained terribly normal now, and her previous reactions were all quite logical,


    who knew what myriad tricks and methods these Evil Gods, capable of invading the real world and gathering believers, possessed.


    Qiu Tu thought it best to be cautious.


    So, after shutting down Larilo, he picked up the altar from the table and began shaking it frantically.


    Larilo, locked in the ''Soul Shackles'', was suddenly lifted into the air and then began rolling continuously along with Qiu Tu''s vigorous shaking.


    While she tried to control her body, she started another round of rap, "Qiu Tu, you son of....."


    "I....."


    "You...."


    And so, accompanied by the rap beat, Qiu Tu shook her for two minutes and then finally set the dizzied Larilo down.


    After putting Larilo down, Qiu Tu looked at her and cut straight to the point, "Your Highness."


    "I''d like to discuss a deal with you."


    Being a consciousness, Larilo didn''t physically feel dizzy.


    But... being jostled around like that was psychologically uncomfortable enough to drive her mad.


    So, hearing Qiu Tu wanted to talk business, she glared at him like a cat that had just been scared, her crimson eyes fiercely fixed on Qiu Tu, and said, "Business? What kind of business?"


    "Are you planning to trick me again?"


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu, leaning back in the study''s chair, said naturally, "I, want you to become my follower."


    Larilo: ???


    For a moment, Larilo almost thought she had heard wrongly. Continue your journey with My Virtual Library Empire


    Who would be whose believer?


    An Evil God like herself becoming a believer to an ordinary person like Qiu Tu?


    Possibly foreseeing Larilo''s reaction, Qiu Tu smiled as he picked up a pen from the table, twirling it around and counter-questioned, "What''s so hard to understand?"


    "Why can only ordinary people be followers of an Evil God, and not an Evil God be a follower of an ordinary person?"


    This sound logic left Larilo momentarily at a loss for words.


    She opened her mouth, intending to articulate a few points but, wary of revealing information to Qiu Tu, she hesitated and drew back.


    Just then, Qiu Tu abruptly changed the subject, no longer discussing the matter of the follower, and started on another topic.


    He said, "Your Highness, let''s not talk about the matter of the believer for now. I want to explain a misunderstanding to you first."


    "You say I tricked you. How did I trick you?"


    "Did I hand you over to the Security Department, or to the Sanctuary?"


    "Aren''t you safe and sound here because I secretly protected you?"


    After being tricked by Qiu Tu several times, Larilo had already learned to be more cautious.


    So, she didn''t fall for it and said, "Just because you don''t hand me over now doesn''t mean you won''t in the future."


    Qiu Tu replied, "But you can''t question me based on future events."


    "The future hasn''t happened yet, so how do you know I won''t really keep you safe and sound?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo, for a moment, really didn''t know how to argue back.

 Chapter 444 - 299: Qiu: Larilo, Become My Servant (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    She thought about it, then added, "Fine, let''s not mention this matter. But what about my fall from grace, wasn''t that caused by you?"


    Qiu Tu had dared to talk to Larilo today precisely because he had prepared for various contingencies.


    So he deliberately put on a confused face and said, "What does your downfall have to do with me?"


    Larilo: ??


    Larilo looked at Qiu Tu and, puzzled, said, "Weren''t the people who ambushed me arranged by you?"


    Indeed, since yesterday when he had fooled Larilo, Qiu Tu had roughly judged the current state of this Evil God.


    She did harbour some suspicions about him, but everything was just assumption, without even any solid evidence.


    So¡­ that''s why Qiu Tu dared to pull the wool over Larilo''s eyes again after he had captured her today.


    Hence, hearing Larilo''s doubt, Qiu Tu put on an expression of wordlessness, "Your Highness, are you perhaps overestimating me?"


    "I...what power or ability do I have to arrange for three Third Order Cataclysmics to ambush you?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu listed the people who ambushed her in detail, "Director Liu of Eastern City Investigation Bureau, Colonel Wang Hu of Eastern City Military Department, Major General Ye Mingfeng of Xinjie City Military Department."


    "These three people...who among them could I possibly have a relationship with? Who would listen to me?"


    "Aside from Director Liu, whom I''ve had prior contact with, I haven''t even met the other two."


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s explanation, Larilo thought it over carefully.


    It seemed... there was a bit of logic to it?


    She couldn''t help but ask hesitantly, "Then why would they ambush me?"


    Qiu Tu spread his hands, "How would I know? How could a small fry like me be privy to the affairs of such illustrious figures."


    His past experiences taught Qiu Tu: only those who lie will try every means to weave a plausible story.


    Those who don''t lie, "with a clear conscience," would only speak of what they "know," as they''re not God''s Perspective; how could they possibly know the real truth of any matter.


    This advanced technique indeed made Larilo trust Qiu Tu a bit more.


    A flicker of contemplation crossed Larilo''s blood-red eyes.


    Then she tentatively said, "Could those three masters have conspired with Yan Chen, laying a chain plan?"


    Now was the time for Qiu Tu to display his talent in deception. Shaking his head, he analyzed, "That''s unlikely."


    "They are adversaries of Yan Chen. Rather than saying they collaborated with Yan Chen, it''s more like they were planning to snatch Yan Chen''s credit."


    Hearing Qiu Tu analyze it like that, a light suddenly dawned in Larilo''s eyes, and she said, "Have they all been promoted?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment before saying, "I''ve heard¡­ that Director Liu and General Ye have both been promoted to Deputy Speakers of the Dongye State Council."


    When Larilo heard Qiu Tu''s words, a glimmer of "enlightenment" flashed in her eyes! She evidently felt that she had deduced the true nature of the events¡­


    Qiu Tu watched this unfold, a nearly imperceptible smirk crossing his face.


    The highest realm of lying is making the other party guess the outcome you want them to.


    Only the thoughts that have gone through the other party''s mind will make them absolutely convinced¡­


    Thinking this, seeing his plot taking effect, Qiu Tu coughed once and then slowly began to speak, "Your Highness, do you now truly believe that I am your loyal follower?"


    "So¡­ are you willing to become my follower now?"


    Larilo, listening to Qiu Tu''s bizarre words, came back to her senses, filled with question marks.


    Perhaps because she really believed Qiu Tu had not betrayed her to some extent, Larilo spoke more casually.


    She said, "As your loyal follower, shouldn''t it be you who becomes my follower?"


    Qiu Tu nodded, "You''re not wrong. But¡­ having been a follower for so long, and you being the Evil God for so long, can''t we change roles?"


    "I think your position seems pretty good too."


    Larilo:¡­.. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before Larilo could retort, Qiu Tu suddenly said, "Additionally, Your Highness, let me help you analyze this."


    "Judging by your just now ''if the pot breaks, the pot breaks'' attitude, you''re apparently prepared to face certain death."


    "Now, I am willing to offer you a chance to continue living."


    "No matter what demands I make, or what cunning schemes I may have, what is there for you to hesitate about?"


    "It''s all going to be better than your current situation, isn''t it?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with an expression of mock amusement, "If I were you, even if I planned for you to become my female slave, I would agree."


    "Because, as long as you''re alive, there''s hope for a turnaround. But if you''re dead... "


    "Then there''s nothing left..."


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    Qiu Tu''s final words were like the devil''s murmur, sending a shiver through Larilo''s whole body.


    She suddenly looked up at Qiu Tu as if she had just broken free from the "beautiful illusion" he had crafted for her.


    She finally remembered that the man before her was a master manipulator, someone who had played the various departments of the Investigation Bureau, Jia Shu, Jia Wei, and even herself, like puppets in his hands.


    Such a master, even if he wasn''t behind the ambush on her, very likely still played some role in it.


    And had she almost believed him just now?


    But thinking this, a sense of powerlessness surged within Larilo.


    After all... just as Qiu Tu had said, from the moment she was captured by Qiu Tu, her life was in his hands.


    No matter what scheming Qiu Tu had now, as long as it could keep her alive, she had to accept it.


    After all... only by staying alive would she have a chance to turn the tables.


    With that in mind, she clenched her teeth, her crimson eyes fixed on Qiu Tu as she said, "Fine, I agree to your terms. I''ll become your disciple."


    Qiu Tu might indeed be a devil.


    Hearing Larilo''s agreement, he smiled, saying, "Now I feel being a disciple is no longer satisfying for me, so... become my female slave, Your Highness."


    Larilo:.....


    Larilo took a deep breath, her crimson gaze filled with humiliation and defiance, but ultimately, she gritted her teeth and said, "Fine."


    Seeing he had finally "conquered" Larilo, a smile finally crossed Qiu Tu''s face.


    He found Dai Yukang''s "three-stage" conversation technique quite useful.


    He had merely replicated Dai Yukang''s conversational technique from earlier that night, and it immediately brought Larilo, who had been ready to die, back into the fold.


    As for Larilo''s current state of resistance, Qiu Tu was unconcerned.


    Because... his plan tonight had never been [to extract information from Larilo through words].


    Instead...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced at the top of Larilo''s head, and with a thought...


    The next second, a line of small text appeared above her head.


    [Larilo Loyalty: 0]


    Yes, the reason Qiu Tu went through so many tricks today to make Larilo his "female slave" was to establish a "superior-subordinate" relationship with her.


    Early on, when facing Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu had discovered that as long as someone "worked" for him, whether officially or verbally, they would be deemed a "subordinate" by the "Loyalty Game"!


    He could then attack them every night using the "Loyalty Game" and obtain "Memory Fragments"!


    Yes, the real method Qiu Tu wanted to use to extract information from Larilo was the "Memory Fragments"!


    Larilo, the Evil God, might not be the type to play cunning schemes, but she was actually very smart.


    In her several confrontations with Qiu Tu, she wasn''t completely overpowered. Moreover, she managed to launch attacks on Qiu Tu several times.


    If it weren''t for her significant information disadvantage, Qiu Tu didn''t think he could handle her as easily as he was doing now.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu knew that trying to extract information purely through bluffs or verbal skill wasn''t only difficult but would also take a very long time.


    Plus, even if he got the information, there was no way for Qiu Tu to verify its authenticity.


    So, rather than matching wits with Larilo, it was better to simply use a Golden Finger cheat! Simple and direct!


    As for whether his subordinates could defeat Larilo, the former Fourth-Order Evil God, in the "Loyalty Game,"


    Qiu Tu wasn''t very worried.


    After all... even though Larilo was high-ranked and strong before, now... she was just a soul.


    Qiu Tu felt there was no need to call for experts; having Shen Lingshuang teach Larilo a lesson every night would be enough!


    In time, maybe after just a few days, the "Memory Fragments" that emerged from victory might contain the method to master the Boundless Heart Sea Region.


    And even if there wasn''t a method to become the Regional Controller of the Boundless Heart Sea Region, once he extracted enough information from Larilo, Qiu Tu could also deal with her more easily.


    ¡ªLike... pretending to have made contact with Zhao Ji.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, as though looking at a cute little rabbit.


    And this rabbit, he was dead set on catching¡ªno one could change his mind!


    At this moment, whether it was an intuition of Qiu Tu''s peculiar gaze or not, Larilo felt uneasy.


    It was as though... she was completely exposed before Qiu Tu.


    For some reason, she had a bad premonition in her heart...


    ''It should be alright, shouldn''t it? Has Qiu Tu done something to me?'' Larilo was somewhat puzzled.

 Chapter 445 - 300: Do You Have Another Home Outside? (Asking for Monthly Tickets of 10,000 Words)

    She carefully recalled the entire conversation she had with Qiu Tu tonight.


    Overall, it seemed that Qiu Tu had one purpose: to establish a nominal relationship between himself and her.


    Moreover, in this relationship, Qiu Tu was superior, and she was inferior.


    But such a "nominal relationship" didn''t have much effect.


    Even if Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic ability related to "relationships," capable of affecting along "relationships," but still.... the world operated on basic "rules."


    All powers and their costs must be equivalent.


    Verbal agreements between Cataclysmic Creatures and hierarchical relationships did produce corresponding effects, but... a simple verbal promise couldn''t possibly yield enormous benefits.


    Thinking this, Larilo suddenly felt she had been overthinking.


    And following this train of thought, she pondered even more.


    If Qiu Tu indeed had some special ability that could make simple relationships produce great effects.


    But then again... Larilo had nothing left to lose at this point.


    As long as Qiu Tu didn''t kill her or hand her over to the Security Department, she could patiently wait for a turnaround.


    After all... Qiu Tu couldn''t possibly take away her trump card¡ªthe Boundless Heart Sea territorial control rights, could he? Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As long as no one else could take away her control in the Boundless Heart Sea, she still held hope of reigniting her ascent to become an Evil God!


    Comforting herself with these thoughts for a while, Larilo finally relaxed completely.


    She regained her pride as an Evil God, and then she began to probe and counterattack, "Alright, Qiu Tu. Now that I''ve become your female slave, are you... satisfied?"


    "Do you want anything else?"


    "How about my eyes? I can gouge them out and give them to you..."


    As she spoke, Larilo''s right index and middle fingers moved towards her eyes.


    But Larilo was shrewd, and Qiu Tu was even more shrewd.


    He watched Larilo''s performance with a mocking smile and didn''t even wait for Larilo to actually gouge out her eyes before he mentally transformed the transparent light net around the altar into black.


    Completely cutting off the communication between him and Larilo¡ªhis goal had been achieved, and he didn''t have time to accompany Larilo in her act.


    He had a second date tonight, after all.


    Thinking this, he casually stored the "Soul Shackles" altar into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" and rose to leave the study.


    First, he went to the next bedroom to take a peek at the adorable Fang Tangtang.


    The girl was still deep in sleep, with gentle blue moonlight softly draping over her, casting a dreamy veil.


    Her skin was fair as jade, her long lashes trembling lightly with her steady breath, like the wings of lovely butterflies, seemingly ready to take flight at any moment.


    Qiu Tu tiptoed over, gently touched her cute, round, egg-shaped face, then bent down to tuck her in before slowly leaving the room.


    In her sleep, Fang Tangtang seemed to feel Qiu Tu''s affection and mumbled something softly, her dreaming face even sweeter...


    Leaving Fang Tangtang''s villa, Qiu Tu strode towards the one he shared with Shen Lingshuang.


    As he was about to enter the home tonight, Shen Lingshuang called him. On the phone, Qiu Tu brought up the "Infinite Heart Sea Development Time," and to his surprise, Shen Lingshuang was quite familiar with the plan.


    She even referred to it as the "Counter-Infiltration World."


    And she mentioned that her father had once presided over this plan in the Third Sanctuary.


    So... Qiu Tu also decided to find out just how much Shen Lingshuang knew about this plan.


    With that in mind, bathed in the moonlight, Qiu Tu returned to the villa he shared with Shen Lingshuang.


    He pushed open the door, and Shen Lingshuang, who hadn''t yet gone to bed, was talking to herself while holding Xiao Bai.


    "Xiao Bai, Xiao Bai... I''m telling you, you simply can''t go for a domesticless little male dog."


    "After you get one, you''ll end up like me, guarding an empty house every day, both lonely and alone."


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    "See how miserable I am? Even to have Qiu Tu come home, I have to exchange it for information."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s indirect complaints, Qiu Tu embarrassedly scratched his nose and then said with a smile, "I''m back. What nonsense are you chatting with Xiao Bai about?"


    Shen Lingshuang had clearly heard Qiu Tu entering and showed no surprise at his interjection.


    She kept stroking Xiao Bai''s glossy fur, rolled her eyes, and pouted as she said, "I just feel that seeing you has become too difficult, you''re never home, and I need to leverage my father just to see you."


    As she said this, she appeared to suddenly realize something, gave Qiu Tu a dawning look, and said, "Oh~~ you wouldn''t happen to have another home on the side, would you?"


    Honestly, in that moment, Qiu Tu was sweating profusely.


    But who was he... he was Qiu¡ªthe master of emotional fraud, time management, the terminator of young girls, the lover of married women¡ªTu!


    So, with a serious face, he said sternly to Shen Lingshuang, "How could you think that of me!"


    "Lingshuang, the most important thing in a relationship is mutual trust!"


    "Only when two people trust each other..."


    Then... the third person is safe...


    ¡ªHe silently swallowed these thoughts. Qiu Tu continued, "Then... can the relationship last!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words of impeccable righteousness, surprise was etched all over Shen Lingshuang''s face.


    She watched him quietly for a while, then finally softened a bit pitifully, hugged Xiao Bai, bowed her head, and said softly, "Sorry... I just miss you too much."


    Whether really aggravated by Shen Lingshuang''s meekness or not, Xiao Bai barked "Woof woof" at Shen Lingshuang a couple of times and then directly jumped out of her arms.

 Chapter 446 - 300: Do You Have Another Home Outside? (Asking for Monthly Tickets of 10,000 Words)_2

    Seeing Xiao Bai run off, Shen Lingshuang hurriedly thought to chase after her.


    But just at that moment, Qiu Tu had already walked up to her.


    He reached out to embrace Shen Lingshuang and said nonchalantly, "Forget about Xiao Bai. Tonight is about us."


    Winning a girl''s heart isn''t just about lying; it''s also about sweet talk.


    Indeed, blushing slightly at Qiu Tu''s romantic words, Shen Lingshuang turned her face away haughtily, pouting and muttering softly, "Who''s ''us''? Us, indeed."


    "You''re just a roommate, and one who rarely comes home at that."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s petulant words, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "Alright alright, I''m just a roommate."


    "Now... as your roommate, I''d like to ask about the ''Counter-Infiltration World.'' Can Miss Ling Shuang enlighten me?"


    Although Shen Lingshuang was proud, ill-tempered, petty, deceitful, and made Cataclysmic Potions with miraculous effects, she had one virtue ¡ª she never shirked important matters.


    Thus, hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she stopped being jealous and began to converse with him.


    Looking at Qiu Tu with a reminiscent expression, she said, "Qiu Tu... I have something to tell you, and you mustn''t get angry."


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "Don''t worry. I''m always very good-natured; I hardly ever get angry."


    "Once, a man cursed at me with seven or eight swear words on the street, and I didn''t even get mad, let alone respond."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang exclaimed in surprise, "Ah? Really?"


    Qiu Tu nodded seriously, "Of course it''s true. He and his whole family ended up stuffed in sacks and dumped in the sewer that very day, so why would I get angry at a few corpses?"


    Shen Lingshuang:.....


    "I won''t say any more. I''m scared." Although Shen Lingshuang knew Qiu Tu was joking, she still pouted in displeasure.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu laughed, lifted her into his arms, and onto his lap, and coaxed, "Look at you, can''t take a joke."


    "What''s there to be angry about in our relationship, huh?"


    "Even if you don''t know the intel about the ''Counter-Infiltration World,'' and even if you tricked me into coming home, I''ll just think you missed me too much."


    Qiu Tu said these words sincerely, and so Shen Lingshuang''s body finally relaxed.


    She leaned against Qiu Tu''s chest, then with pouted lips, said softly, "It''s not that I don''t have any intel... It''s just that I don''t know much, and I''m afraid it might be useless to you."


    Qiu Tu didn''t jest this time; instead, he gently stroked the girl''s hair, offering the utmost tenderness, "It''s okay, just tell me what you know."


    At these words, a smile finally bloomed on Shen Lingshuang''s face...


    Thus, with a few clever ploys, jokes, and tenderness, Qiu Tu completely made Shen Lingshuang forget her dissatisfaction from not seeing him for several days.


    Henceforth, Shen Lingshuang seriously shared all she knew about the ''Counter-Infiltration World.''


    According to Shen Lingshuang, the ''Counter-Infiltration World Project,'' also known as the ''Boundless Heart Sea Counter-Infiltration Plan,'' was one of the most crucial projects in the Era of Disaster orchestrated by the major Sanctuaries. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This plan was jointly proposed by the First, Second, and Third Sanctuaries.


    After years of fighting against Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods, the three Sanctuaries realized that while humanity could contend with Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods through heavy artillery, missiles, and even nuclear bombs...


    ...this form of combat could, at most, only kill individual or small groups of Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods.


    The Boundless Heart Sea was like a ''nest'' for Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods, continuously spawning new ones.


    And what was more frightening was that many Evil Gods could resurrect and return to their ''divine status'' after a few years of recovery in the ''Boundless Heart Sea,'' as long as a sliver of consciousness remained even after being killed in the real world.


    After joint research by top scientists and High Order Catastrophists from the three Sanctuaries, they came to a startling conclusion.


    The ''Boundless Heart Sea'' is a world of consciousness. In theory, the Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods born within it are also ''consciousness.''


    Therefore... they are in theory, immortal and indestructible.


    Even if they are killed by humans in the real world, as long as a fragment of consciousness remains, they can be reborn upon returning to the ''Spirit World.''


    This discovery was almost enough to make the leaders of all Sanctuaries despair.


    It meant that humanity was doomed to fight against the endless onslaught of Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods.


    This was almost certainly a path to defeat...


    However, during a chance occurrence, an Evil God was slain; but the residual aura deterred other Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods from approaching the territory it had controlled.


    Then... the ''Boundless Heart Sea Summoning'' event occurred for the first time.


    At the time, it gave the Catastrophists in the city quite the scare.


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    But subsequent research by the three Sanctuaries unveiled the mystery.


    It turns out... the Boundless Heart Sea differs from the real world. Because it is a world of the mind, it requires a psychic vessel and anchor.


    Once something becomes the psychic vessel and anchor of a region, it gains the ability to control that area.


    As for what can be done after controlling that area...?


    Shen Lingshuang wasn''t very clear.


    She only vaguely remembered her father saying that it was the key to becoming a God, as well as an essential condition for ascending to Fifth Order.


    Moreover... it seems that once the area is controlled, it''s possible to forbid the emergence of new Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods within it.


    This astonishing revelation appeared to give the three Sanctuaries the key to victory in this apocalyptic war ¡ª to seize more territories within the Boundless Heart Sea.

 Chapter 447 - 300: Do You Have Another Home Outside? (Asking for Monthly Tickets of 10,000 Words)_3

    To this end, the three great Sanctuaries began to deliberately lure Evil Gods, devising ways to kill them and then seize their controlled territories.


    As a result, during this process, the three great Sanctuaries discovered... Evil Gods that controlled more territories were more powerful and more cunning.


    Now the Sanctuaries were unable to deal with overly powerful Evil Gods, preventing further expansion.


    So... the three great Sanctuaries began to look for allies in the Cataclysm world, established new Sanctuaries, and launched attacks on the "Boundless Heart Sea" region, in hopes of winning this apocalypse!


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    That''s also why more and more Sanctuaries kept appearing, blooming like flowers in various regions of the world¡ªbecause the closer to the center of the world, the more territories controlled by Evil Gods, the more powerful they became.


    With the current strength of humanity, they simply couldn''t deal with them.


    After listening to the information provided by Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu quietly analyzed it for a while, then he finally asked, "Did your father ever speak of how to control leaderless regions?"


    Upon hearing this, Shen Lingshuang shook her head slightly and then said, "No, he didn''t."


    "And... I remember it seemed as if they had never figured it out."


    "Apart from a few regions that were accidentally acquired by ordinary Cataclysmics, other regions are either seized by other Evil Gods or are still stuck in the stalemate of war."


    "Now the top-ranked Sanctuaries have even begun to use these stalemate regions as training grounds."


    "They tried every means to send ordinary Cataclysmics in, then defend the territories and battle against Cataclysmic Creatures and Evil Gods."


    "It seems to be quite effective."


    As she spoke, Shen Lingshuang tilted her head to think for a moment, then continued, "Right, although my father and his colleagues haven''t come up with a method that is 100% successful..."


    "But.. they have accumulated some experience."


    "That is, each area of the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' requires a different method of control. Each needs to be explored slowly."


    "But the method of control often has to do with the type of the region. That is to say, the methods of control are hidden within the region itself..."


    Pausing here, Shen Lingshuang then said, "So, regardless of strength, as long as one can solve this puzzle, there''s hope of becoming the controller of the region."


    "And once one becomes the controller of a region, no matter who they are, they can instantly become a hot commodity among the great Sanctuaries, a pillar of support."


    "Becoming the Speaker of a state might be difficult, but... becoming a Deputy Speaker would not be too much of a problem."


    "As for what happens next, it depends on one''s own efforts and intelligence."


    "After all, strength is important, but... intellect is more so. Sanctuaries wouldn''t possibly hand over the highest decision-making power, the fate of a state, or even an entire Sanctuary just for strength."


    Having listened to Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu nodded slightly. At last, he had a comprehensive understanding of the "Counter-Infiltration World Plan."


    In essence... the "Counter-Infiltration World Plan" is humanity''s only hope of truly winning this great Cataclysm.


    That''s why all the great Sanctuaries value this plan so highly.


    And if he could get control of the Xinjie City region as he wished, he might soar to the skies and become a big shot in a state!


    Furthermore, becoming the controller of a region seems to bring great benefits to oneself and one''s strength.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu once again resolved in his heart: he must take control of this region!


    .....


    Late at night, perhaps because Qiu Tu hadn''t come back for a long time,


    Shen Lingshuang lay in Qiu Tu''s arms, chirping away and not wanting to sleep.


    Qiu Tu, however, didn''t mind and simply opened the "Loyalty Game", selected Shen Lingshuang, also selected Larilo, and directly started the game...


    Watching the pixelated Shen Lingshuang with a pixelated Xiao Bai beating up a pixelated Larilo and listening to Shen Lingshuang''s cute voice, the overworked Qiu Tu slowly fell asleep...


    Perhaps noticing the weariness in Qiu Tu''s brow, Shen Lingshuang looked at him with a bit of heartache and nestled into his arms, also slowly drifting off to sleep...


    And so, the night passed without a word.


    The next day, when Qiu Tu awoke, the first thing he saw was the victory settlement screen of the "Loyalty Game".


    Initially, he didn''t care too much.


    But when he took a closer look, he was slightly surprised. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For the rewards from the victory were somewhat generous.


    3 points of Loyalty, a Memory Fragment (Medium), and a piece of Cataclysmic Material...


    ---------

 Chapter 448 - 301: I See Zhao Ji Still Has Her Charms (10k words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Perhaps because the "Loyalty Game" had revealed quite a bit this time, Qiu Tu perked up, suddenly wide awake.


    He turned his head to look at Shen Lingshuang, who was still nestled in his arms, sound asleep.


    This girl had always been carefree and indifferent, so despite Qiu Tu having left her at home for over a week without a word, once he had coaxed her, she immediately began treating him as if he were her closest person again.


    Thus, she wore an ultra-thin silk short-sleeve pajama set, her arms wrapped around Qiu Tu, a smooth and shapely leg draped over his body, sleeping sweetly.


    Because the material of the pajamas was both clingy and sheer, it felt to Qiu Tu as smooth as if she weren''t wearing anything at all.


    Seeing that Shen Lingshuang wouldn''t be waking up any time soon, Qiu Tu once again turned his attention to the "Loyalty Game" before him, preparing to check out the items that Larilo had dropped the night before.


    First up was loyalty.


    In the victory settlement screen of the Loyalty Game.


    The Xiao Bai that Shen Lingshuang was holding had a vicious dog expression, its four limbs becoming elongated like tentacles, and it viciously clawed at Larilo through the air.


    And Larilo had been scratched all over, lying on the ground in utter despair.


    Although it was a pixelated cartoon scene, Qiu Tu could still feel Larilo''s tearful desire to cry through those crimson eyes.


    But even so, a "+3 Loyalty" sign hovered above her head. This indicated that despite having been beat up quite badly last night, her "Favorability" towards Qiu Tu had actually increased?


    Honestly, Qiu Tu found it a little perplexing.


    After all, winning the "Loyalty Game" didn''t automatically increase Favorability.


    For example, after Qiu Tu had just met Tan Huimin, despite having sent Shen Lingshuang to attack her several times and winning, which got him some Memory fragments and other rewards, he never once gained any "Loyalty."


    This let Qiu Tu realize that the "Loyalty Game" couldn''t reverse a creature''s heart.


    If that creature resists you from the bottom of its heart, rejects you, doesn''t want to cooperate with you, or doesn''t want to get close to you, then the "Loyalty Game" can''t change its mind.


    On the other hand... if a creature can heighten its loyalty through the "Loyalty Game," it at least proves that it harbors no "subjective" malice towards Qiu Tu.


    So...


    With this thought, a glint of contemplation flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes...


    ''It seems... the act I''ve been putting on has yielded some results?''


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    ''The strategy I devised in the beginning was indeed correct.''


    Since the moment Qiu Tu met Larilo, whether she was riding him roughshod or under his control, he didn''t get ahead of himself.


    He didn''t act like the villains in TV dramas do in front of Larilo, revealing his plans and mocking her.


    The reason for this was ultimately "prudence."


    Facing such an enigmatic Evil God, Qiu Tu didn''t know how many cards she was holding back, so he dared not be reckless.


    This also led to a situation where, in front of Larilo, his suspicions were great, but... he always left a slim chance for a "lifeline."


    Like last night, when he convinced Larilo that Liu Xiongyuan''s attack on her had nothing to do with him.


    Larilo could suspect that Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan were in cahoots, but... upon closer inspection, one would realize: without Qiu Tu, Liu Xiongyuan could still ambush her.


    After all, as long as Liu Xiongyuan could gather the forces of Moonlight Lake, he could force Yan Chen to remove his Domain. At that time, a freed Larilo would definitely try to escape.


    And it was highly probable that Larilo, when escaping, would run back to her own "Domain."


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s existence was not a "necessary condition" in the whole event.


    So as long as there was no evidence to tell Larilo that it was all Qiu Tu''s planning, even the timing of the Moonlight Lake''s gathering was set by him, then Larilo would always retain a fantasized hope towards Qiu Tu.... S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Like last night, when Qiu Tu successfully captured Larilo and forced her to "acknowledge her master," he could''ve directly handed her over to the Security Department but still kept her.


    He even went as far as to pua her, telling her he was protecting her.


    It was based on the same principle.


    As long as Qiu Tu didn''t hand her over, Larilo would always harbor that sliver of fantasy.


    She would always harbour hopes that perhaps Qiu Tu was merely a brash believer who desired to disrespect the gods daily, lusting after the bodies of deities.


    And it was this sliver of fantasy that made it possible for Larilo''s Loyalty to increase.


    With these thoughts... Qiu Tu also formed a new understanding of the "Loyalty Game" in his mind.


    Then he looked at the second item he had acquired.


    The second acquisition was an item of Cataclysmic Material called "Life Secret Sand."


    Qiu Tu remembered that when he first obtained the "Loyalty Game," the game''s instructions said something about a chance to gain related Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysmic Props, etc., if the attacked subordinate had special talents.


    And since Larilo was already an Evil God, she definitely fell into the category of subordinates with "special talents." It would be normal for her to drop other things.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu also checked out the introduction of this Cataclysmic Material.


    "Life Secret Sand: A granule formed from the condensation of High Order catastrophized creature''s soul power, containing its destiny and essence, possessing the power to distort reality."


    "It''s one of the raw materials for various High Order Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic Potions."


    A very straightforward introduction, it appeared to be a material of not-low rank which, for the time being, seemed unnecessary to use.


    However... it made Qiu Tu pensive....


    Staring at the tiny, rice grain-sized, multi-colored sand granule in his hand, he mused quietly for a while.

 Chapter 449 - 301: I See Zhao Ji Still Has Her Charms (10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu finally withdrew his thoughts, then looked toward the third item he had acquired.


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    The third item, which was also the main reason Qiu Tu used the "Loyalty Game": a memory fragment.


    Although Qiu Tu hadn''t hoped to obtain a method to control the "Boundless Heart Sea Region" on his first use of the "Loyalty Game".


    But... he thought that as long as he could learn more about Larilo. Even if it was just gathering more intelligence related to the evil gods or Larilo, it would be beneficial.


    It might come in handy at some critical moment.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu turned his head again to glance at Shen Lingshuang next to him. Seeing that she hadn''t woken up, he used the "Memory Fragment (Medium)".


    As Qiu Tu used the "Memory Fragment (Medium)".


    The next second, time and space shifted, and Qiu Tu, in a daze, found himself... seemingly flying.


    He tried to "survey" his surroundings, only to realize that he did seem to be about fifty meters in mid-air, flying side by side with another woman.


    The woman looked to be in her early thirties. She bore a slight resemblance to Larilo, so one could say she was of extraordinary beauty.


    Unlike Larilo''s demonic charm and frivolous demeanor, this woman was like an ancient, immutable iceberg, elegant and noble.


    Her eyes revealed wisdom and authority, shining like stars in the night sky, as if seeing through all human hearts.


    This was a woman so powerful it seemed she could contend with heaven and earth itself.


    And as Qiu Tu was appraising this woman, "Qiu Tu" spoke.


    "Her" voice was clearly that of a female, crisp and clear, like the song of a oriole.


    "She" said, "Sister, you must help me take revenge."


    "That stinking dragon! I fought with it for two days and two nights, and neither of us could best the other!"


    "But... this doesn''t mean my strength is inadequate. After all, I was fighting in its controlled territory."


    After listening to "Qiu Tu", the powerful woman simply hummed noncommittally, showing no indication of joining the conversation.


    "Qiu Tu" continued, "However, sister, could you not kill it? I want to keep it as my mount."


    "I, a Fourth Order Deity, would be perfectly matched with a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature. Just imagine, when I go out, riding on it, how imposing that would be!"


    Hearing "Qiu Tu''s" words, the woman gave her a cold look and said, "When I make a move, I spare no one."


    At this point, Qiu Tu also had an epiphany and guessed the identities of the two speakers.


    "Qiu Tu" was certainly the owner of the memory fragment: Larilo.


    Then, the "sister" beside her, so powerful that she didn''t even consider a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature worth noticing, was evidently... the ruler of the nine cities in Dongye State, the Nine Major Regions, the Fifth Order Evil God "Zhao Ji".


    However, although Qiu Tu had figured out their identities, his mind was filled with even more questions:


    What year was it now? How come their relationship was so good at that time?


    And... where exactly were they going?


    While Qiu Tu was contemplating this, a few seconds later, the two appeared above a patch of low-lying jungle.


    This jungle was sparsely treed, yet the plants all appeared to be thriving, suggesting a prosperous vista.


    Looking at the scenery before him, Qiu Tu felt it strangely familiar, for some reason.


    But before he could remember where he had seen it before... suddenly... the sounds of ''rumbling'' came! The earth shook! Mountains collapsed!


    A green giant dragon, dragging its twenty-meter-long tail, knocked down countless trees as it rose from the ground!


    It was like the spirit of an ancient forest, with its tender green scales smooth and hard, each one as delicately crafted as a piece of jade artwork, shimmering with a gentle glow!


    Its head was massive, with a pair of snake-like eyes that were half-shut and sinister; a set of tree-like dragon horns stretched from the crown of its head, lush and leafy; the huge fleshy wings on each side of its cheeks gently writhed with each breath...


    As it stood up, drops of tender green essence of life fell, exuding a faint fragrance of plants and grass, inducing frenzied growth wherever they landed...


    Facing the intimidating presence of the beast before him, Qiu Tu''s soul felt a shiver.


    This could be said to be the most powerful creature he had encountered in his two lifetimes.


    Even though he was already a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, when he experienced the terror of this Cataclysmic Creature through the "Memory Fragment", he still felt as powerless as a firefly competing with the radiant moon.


    ''Is this... a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature?'' S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Was Larilo before her downfall, and Liu Xiongyuan now, at this level of being?''


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was pondering, the Wood Dragon made its move.


    Its lantern-sized eyes, wary, locked gazes with "Qiu Tu''s" companion, Zhao Ji, for a few seconds before a fierce killing intent flashed by!


    The next second, the fleshy wings on either side of its head violently flapped, and its entire body, coiled like a spring, leaped into action! Its wide-open maw turned into a blur as it viciously snapped at Zhao Ji!


    Currently, as Qiu Tu was in Larilo''s memory, both "reactivity" and "strength" were at Larilo''s Fourth Order level!


    Despite this, "she" still only saw a blur and could hardly keep up with the speed of the enormous Wood Dragon!


    In that instant, Qiu Tu felt an intense fear and concern from Larilo''s heart!


    ''The sisters'' ''current'' relationship is indeed not bad...''


    And just as this thought was kindled in Qiu Tu''s mind... suddenly... Zhao Ji made her move.


    She simply watched the massive Fourth Order Wood Dragon before her, her eyes suddenly spinning, her pupils seemingly dilating like they could expand outward, forming two rings that extended outwards!

 Chapter 450 - 301: I See Zhao Ji Still Has Her Charms (10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    A pair of eyes, with pupils ringed within rings, gave them an exceptionally icy, powerful look, as if beholder of divine disdain for the mortals below.


    Just one glance, only a single glance!


    The very next second, there was a "Boom!" of a tremendous explosion!


    The massive body of the Wood Dragon, akin to a world-annihilating behemoth, suddenly burst open!


    Enjoy exclusive content from My Virtual Library Empire


    Countless streams of emerald sap poured down like rain, splashing upon the earth!


    Trees ripped from the soil and sprang upward! Wild grasses grew wildly!


    In just a moment, a once low-growing thicket transformed into a vast Primitive Forest in mere seconds.


    Innumerable towering trees stood proudly amid them, their branches lush and leaves abundant!


    A gentle breeze passed through, rustling the leaves, playing a symphony that seemed like a celebration of Life itself.


    Qiu Tu watched this scene, akin to a divine miracle, his heart felt as if it was being tightly gripped by someone''s hand.


    In a daze, he finally remembered why this place looked so familiar...


    Wasn¡ät this the vast Primitive Forest corresponding to Xinjie City within the Boundless Heart Sea?


    So... this is how the Primitive Forest came to be?


    And as Qiu Tu reflected on this, he heard Zhao Ji''s indifferent voice beside his ear, "Alright, I am leaving."


    "Qiu Tu" turned to catch a glimpse of Zhao Ji, but at that moment, everything before Qiu Tu''s eyes turned black.


    When he regained his senses, he found himself back in the real world.


    Lying beside Shen Lingshuang, Qiu Tu stared blankly at the ceiling, taking a long time to snap back to reality.


    Only having experienced it firsthand could he truly grasp the formidable nature of Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creatures, and even more so, the Fifth Order Evil Gods.


    ''Can humanity really combat such forces?'' he wondered.


    Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu harbored some doubts...


    Therefore, he was suddenly overwhelmed by a profound sense of crisis.


    He felt he had been too complacent recently! He should be rising through the ranks, enhancing his own strength as quickly as possible!


    Only by accelerating his progress to reach the Third, Fourth, and even Fifth Orders could he truly take control of his fate.


    Otherwise, just like the Wood Dragon, a mere glance from Zhao Ji could reduce him to ash!


    Of course, Qiu Tu wouldn¡ät let the realization of Zhao Ji''s power convince him to simply chase "strength"!


    In a world where extraordinary powers lay within individuals, indeed, strength is the fundamental cornerstone.


    But what makes humanity great is not just raw power, it''s teamwork, it''s technology!


    Behold, even the Fifth Order Evil Gods, no matter how powerful, still had to slowly infiltrate the real world under the threat of Sanctuary''s nuclear arsenal.


    As a person whose "official position" was synonymous with "strength," Qiu Tu could grab hold of both aspects firmly!


    Just like... if he could bewilder Larilo until she lost her bearings, he could also try his hand at bewitching her sister: Zhao Ji!


    After all, just because his strength didn''t match theirs didn''t mean he couldn''t outplay them with his wits.


    Where strength falls short, intellect steps in.


    Moreover, to be honest, Qiu Tu was indeed enticed by Zhao Ji.


    Not to mention that Zhao Ji''s appearance and figure were not inferior to Larilo¡äs, just her terrifying power, easily obliterating a Fourth-order creature with a glance¡ªif she could become one of his own... wouldn''t that mean Qiu Tu could rise to unparalleled heights through her support?


    Furthermore, from the scenes observed in the memory fragment, it was apparent that Evil Gods and Cataclysmic Creatures did not behave as a collective or species.


    They still followed the cruel law of the jungle, the survival of the fittest.


    So, Qiu Tu thought... luring this pair of sisters to his side, using an "Evil God" to control an "Evil God," was not an unachievable feat.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but get his brain working, establishing Zhao Ji''s "personal model" based on observations from the Memory fragment,


    while he started contemplating how to make full use of the rewards he received that morning. All the while ensuring his own safety and without raising Zhao Ji''s suspicions, he pondered how to connect with Zhao Ji...


    ------


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 Chapter 451 - 302: Morning Exercise with Shen Lingshuang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Thinking and thinking, Qiu Tu''s heart gradually came up with a few ideas.


    However, these ideas still needed validation to ensure whether they could work.


    Facing Zhao Ji, the terrifyingly powerful Evil God, the life-loving Qiu Tu was definitely cautious, cautious, and then cautious again!


    He had to be responsible for himself, for Xinjie City, and for the many important people around him!


    After all, if because of his contact with Zhao Ji, he exposed Larilo''s situation and attracted Zhao Ji''s suspicion and attention...


    Letting Zhao Ji single-handedly overturn the situation in Xinjie City.


    Then Qiu Tu would truly become a sinner.


    This mental pressure also meant that Qiu Tu was 100% walking a tightrope!


    Luckily, since beginning his transmigration, walking a tightrope was what Qiu Tu did most!


    Therefore, not only was he accustomed to this kind of life, but he also enjoyed it.


    After all, fighting against Heaven was endlessly fun; fighting against Earth was equally thrilling; and battling with people was just as delightful!


    This kind of exciting and exhilarating life was exactly what he was after.


    In the end, it''s either... lose and get squashed by the Evil God, or win and turn the tables on the Evil God! sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    More importantly, Qiu Tu thought he wouldn''t lose.


    Because... he had "Crisis Intuition", his trump card.


    If there were indeed life-threatening dangers in the plan, "Crisis Intuition" would sound the alarm, giving him enough time to make a full retreat.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu felt much more at ease.


    Indeed, when walking a tightrope across a cliff, it''s always good to have a safety rope...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu closed his eyes and continued to build up a mental model of Zhao Ji in his mind.


    And so, not knowing how much time had passed, maybe ten minutes, maybe half an hour, just when Qiu Tu was fully focused on recalling Zhao Ji''s voice and smile...


    Suddenly, he felt a soft little hand suddenly seize his life''s pulse.


    Startled, Qiu Tu quickly opened his eyes, and then saw Shen Lingshuang leaning beside him, her watery eyes smiling cheekily at him.


    As for her hand, it had, of course, already reached down below.


    Qiu Tu gave her a stare and then said, "What are you doing!"


    Unperturbed by Qiu Tu''s rebuke, Shen Lingshuang''s delicate and boneless hand moved up and down, and with puckered lips, she said, "What else would I be doing? Driving. Can''t you tell?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu, "Drive with your own joystick; why use mine?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang "tsked" and said disdainfully, "If I had one, would I covet yours?"


    Then she added, "Isn''t it just that you got up early in the morning and the engine was already started, so I''m helping you put out the fire? Otherwise, if I go out and let some other woman take advantage of you, I''ll lose out."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu looked at her speechlessly and then asked, "Are you sure it was already started? And not you who lit the fire?"


    Shen Lingshuang''s hand movements did not stop, but her face betrayed a slightly unnatural look, she whistled and said, "Of course~~"


    "It was like this when I woke up."


    Qiu Tu:.....


    "Swear it!"


    Shen Lingshuang, "I swear, I''m not lying to you!"


    Qiu Tu said, "Then when was the last time you lied to me?"


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    Shen Lingshuang coughed and said, "Just now...."


    Qiu Tu looked at Shen Lingshuang, and Shen Lingshuang also looked back at him innocently. After a moment, she "hehe" laughed.


    Qiu Tu was also amused by this adorable girl. So he reckoned it was best to just let go.


    He crossed his hands behind his head and lay back onto the pillow, saying, "Suit yourself. As long as you''re happy~~"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu finally gave in, Shen Lingshuang "hehe" laughed and then started to work harder.


    Unfortunately, it was clear she had no experience, and her technique was mediocre, so after half an hour, the fire still hadn''t gone out.


    A perplexed Shen Lingshuang said, "Huh? Why isn''t it working?"


    "The book says this should work."


    After saying that, she hesitated for a moment, then grabbed the sides of her pajamas, looking like she was ready to take them off.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu asked in surprise, "What are you doing?"


    Shen Lingshuang, with a head full of question marks looking at Qiu Tu, naively said, "Trying to give you some stimulation...."


    "The book says taking off clothes will increase the excitement."


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh, leaning back on the pillow, and said, "Indeed, the book makes a good point, but... you''re clearly a bit delusional."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s tease, Shen Lingshuang''s little fangs bared in anger.


    "Argh! I am so angry!" Overcome with frustration, Shen Lingshuang pounced on Qiu Tu, her teeth poised to nip at him playfully.


    Qiu Tu, now a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened, was impervious to the bite of an ordinary human like Shen Lingshuang.


    Not to mention, Shen Lingshuang didn''t really want to hurt Qiu Tu.


    So, Qiu Tu just held the girl''s cute behind and let her leave some shallow teeth marks on his shoulder.


    After fooling around for a while, Shen Lingshuang nestled red-faced in Qiu Tu''s arms and then whispered softly, "Qiu Tu, am I really useless...."


    "It seems like I can''t do anything right."


    "I''m not good at making potions, I''m not good at crafting treasures. Now I can''t even help you... with that, either."


    "Emotional Fraud Manual"[108 Ways to Improve Relationships] No. 103: When a girl is filled with self-doubt, you must encourage and comfort her.


    Because at such times, it''s often the easiest to gain her favor.


    Because once she emerges from this mood, she will subconsciously regard you as "one of us", "someone close".

 Chapter 452 - 302: Morning Exercise with Shen Lingshuang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu naturally smiled and said, "How could that be."


    "You''re really great. Not only can you make all kinds of Cataclysmic Potions, but you also bring me a lot and lots of happiness."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang seemed... not to be much encouraged. She still pouted, and then spoke somewhat coquettishly, "But... I still feel a bit useless."


    Seeing that the girl''s mood didn''t seem to really improve, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but start pondering a solution...


    After a moment, he had an idea.


    He leaned in close to the girl''s crystal-clear ear and whispered a few words.


    Accompanying his words, the girl''s face blushed all the way to her ears.


    She looked down, annoyed, and said, "You... you''re a pervert..."


    Qiu Tu coughed and replied, "How can this be called perverted? It''s just a bit of fun."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang, with a red face, turned her head away and whispered, "Well... okay then...."


    So, next, Shen Lingshuang slipped off her pajamas and shorts, and then wrapped her baby-smooth legs around Qiu Tu, beginning to gently grind...


    Her clumsy actions, coupled with her green face, were undeniably more provocative.


    Half an hour later, everything was over.


    Shen Lingshuang looked listlessly at Qiu Tu and then complained in a spoiled tone, "This is too tiring! Not fun at all!"


    After speaking, she wiped her belly disdainfully with a paper, "Yuck... disgusting."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu laughed and said, "You''ll grow to like it."


    Shen Lingshuang''s face blushed again, and then she turned her head away, haughtily saying, "I certainly won''t."


    "This time was only because you were working so hard. I was just helping out." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t even think about it in the future!"


    After speaking, she seemed to think of something, and her face briefly showed surprise.


    Then she said to Qiu Tu, "Hold on, wait for me!"


    Having said that, she hopped out of bed, stuck out her tender little tushie, and "dada dada" ran to the next room.


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    Watching her cute antics, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile: Indeed, although a young wife is caring, developing and nurturing her bit by bit had its own pleasure.


    No rush... I''ll take my time to enjoy it in a couple of days....


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Shen Lingshuang returned to the room holding a box after not too long.


    She ran to Qiu Tu, bottom bare, and handed him the box, saying, "I''ve finished making the Cataclysmic treasure you asked me to."


    Upon hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned, then remembered... before he left last time, he indeed had given Shen Lingshuang several pieces of Cataclysmic Material and asked her to help craft Cataclysmic treasures.


    He recalled giving her "Shadow Fragments" and "stone powder of unnamed inscriptions."


    So... the Cataclysmic treasure she crafted should be....


    With that thought, Qiu Tu opened the box.


    Indeed, what appeared inside was a crystal skull only as big as a baby''s fist.


    Qiu Tu picked up the crystal skull, examined it closely, and then inquired, "Is this... a Skull Talisman?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded arrogantly and proudly said, "Of course~ Doesn''t it look like it?"


    Qiu Tu:....


    Honestly, it didn''t quite look like it.


    After all, in his memory, a Skull Talisman was supposed to be that kind of object covered with various curse charms, patterns, or wrapped with bandages, looking ominous.


    But now... it looked so... erm... "cute?"


    Qiu Tu felt it was rather odd.


    Nevertheless, since this was Shen Lingshuang''s sentiment, he accepted it anyway.


    According to Shen Lingshuang, the effect of this Skull Talisman was magical: by reciting the related curse, one''s soul could briefly visit the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    And because of the wonders of the "Boundless Heart Sea," whatever the soul gained there, once it returned to the body, as long as a sufficient price was paid, the gains could be ''materialized'' into reality.


    So... this was a divine artifact for Cataclysmics below Third Order to explore the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    Most of the researchers in Sanctuary who met the requirements received a "Skull Talisman" to facilitate their scientific research.


    After understanding the purpose of this Cataclysmic treasure, Qiu Tu was even more pleased with Shen Lingshuang.


    After all... a teammate who came free of charge and regularly provided equipment was likeable to everyone!


    ...


    And so, after eating with Shen Lingshuang and chatting with her for a while, and promising to come home more often, Qiu Tu left the home he shared with Shen Lingshuang.


    Tan Huimin still came to pick up Qiu Tu this morning.


    Possibly because she had received so much nourishment from Qiu Tu these past few days, Tan Huimin had changed quite a bit. Her palm-sized oval face bloomed like early spring peach blossoms, radiant yet elegantly subtle.


    Her skin was as fair as jade, glowing with a healthy rosiness, complementing her gentle temperament and adding a mature beauty of a young wife.


    Moreover, she seemed much more relaxed, unlike the previous days'' tension.


    So, seeing Qiu Tu leave Fang Tangtang''s place last night and now leaving Shen Lingshuang''s house in the morning, she smiled warmly and a bit teasingly showed concern, "Chief, take care of your health."


    Qiu Tu checked her Loyalty level.


    Possibly as a result of the shock of Zheng Tao''s incident, her Loyalty had soared to over 50 at the time.


    Plus the past two days, with Qiu Tu''s dedicated efforts on her, this woman''s Loyalty had surged by another dozen points, reaching 70.


    Although not as high as the Loyalty of Qiu Tu''s other Confidants, she was still reliable in his eyes.

 Chapter 453 - 302: Morning Exercise with Shen Lingshuang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Otherwise, Qiu Tu wouldn''t have let her be his driver or exposed the homes of the two women to her.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu''s conversation with her became much more casual. He chuckled and said, "Are you afraid there''s none left for you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ferocious words, Tan Hui Min''s oval face blushed slightly.


    Possibly recalling her embarrassing initiative over the past few days, she unnaturally gathered her stray hair behind her ears and focused on driving¡ªwithout responding to Qiu Tu''s comment.


    A bashful beauty is always a splendid sight; therefore, Qiu Tu didn''t mind but quietly enjoyed it....


    Just like that, the two of them quickly arrived at the Investigation Bureau''s office building.


    Since they were delayed by Shen Lingshuang today, by the time they reached the office building, it was already close to noon.


    After getting out of the car, Qiu Tu walked towards the office building with Tan Huimin.


    However, as soon as they reached the office building, Qiu Tu felt as though something significant had happened. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the lobby on the first floor, many agents and section chiefs were excitedly gossiping with each other.


    Now being a high-level official of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu had to maintain his own demeanor, so he did not go to inquire about the situation himself but signaled Tan Huimin with a glance.


    Tan Huimin nodded slightly at Qiu Tu and, without attracting attention, gradually increased the distance between them before mingling into the crowd to gather information....


    Taking the elevator to the ninth floor, where the Political Department was located, Qiu Tu leisurely headed to his office.


    After opening the door and entering, it wasn''t long before Tan Huimin also returned to the office.


    She closed the door behind her and then came over to Qiu Tu, bent down, and whispered, "Chief, this very morning, Director Liu of Eastern City came out of seclusion and announced to the neighboring cities that he has successfully advanced to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic!"


    "Along with this announcement, the Sanctuary suddenly issued a notice and documents. They intend to merge Eastern City with more than a dozen surrounding cities to form the fifth state under the Sanctuary''s jurisdiction: Dongye Zhou."


    "Dongye Zhou will have Eastern City as its capital and will manage the surrounding dozen cities. Dongye Zhou will also establish a council like the Sanctuary."


    "It''s said that the first Speaker of the council will be a high-ranking official from the Sanctuary. Director Liu, General Ye, and another commissioner with the surname Li from a different city will become the Deputy Speakers."


    "So... early this morning, Director Yan, General Ye, and Commissioner Jiang all rushed to Dongye Zhou to participate in the founding ceremony of the state."


    After hearing Tan Huimin''s intelligence, a flicker of surprise crossed Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    After all, if he had not miscalculated the time, it seemed that the establishment of Dongye Zhou was ahead¡ªway ahead, and even earlier than the previously set time frame, wasn''t it?


    Luckily... Qiu Tu had, before this, advanced to the head of the Political Department. Unfortunately... Huang Shangzong had finally arrived.


    As the Speaker of the Dongye Zhou State Council and a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council, Huang Shangzong was indeed the highest official of the state, a true Senior Frontier Official!


    Especially after the transfer of personnel authority of various cities to the Dongye Zhou State Council, Huang Shangzong became the actual "big boss" for all high-level officials within the cities.


    Whether it was promotion, transfer, or demotion, it was all at the whim of Huang Shangzong.


    Therefore, for Qiu Tu¡ªwho had previously killed Huang Shangzong''s trusted general Jia Shu and advisor Wu Zhi¡ªof course, he felt uneasy.


    And just as Qiu Tu was pondering this, suddenly, the phone on his desk "ring ring ring" started to ring.


    Qiu Tu picked up the phone and answered the call. On the other end was Tang Feifei''s cool voice.


    "Have you started work?"


    Qiu Tu "Mmhmm"ed.


    Tang Feifei said, "Come to my office. Huang Shangzong''s people are here. They are investigating Wu Zhi''s case."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was startled.


    ''Fast...too fast!''

 Chapter 454 - 303: The Establishment of Dongye State! (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    ```


    During this period, in order to know his enemies as well as his friends, Qiu Tu had gathered some information about Huang Shangzong from various channels.


    He knew Huang Shangzong had a fiery temperament and always acted decisively, never hesitating or dragging his feet.


    But... the man had just arrived in Eastern City, taking up his new post, and had already sent someone over. Wasn''t that a bit too decisive?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but be somewhat astonished.


    However, after his surprise, Qiu Tu recalled what Tang Feifei had just said.


    "Huang Shangzong''s" people have come. They''re investigating the case of Wu Zhi...


    Since Tang Feifei called Huang Shangzong by name, it was clear the investigator wasn''t in front of her.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu softly asked, "How''s the progress on the investigation?"


    Upon hearing the question, Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, then said, "There doesn''t seem to be any leads."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu felt relieved.


    He hung up the phone and once again meticulously reviewed the finalization of this case in his mind to confirm there were no loose ends. Then Qiu Tu stood up and took Tan Huimin up to the 12th floor.


    Taking the elevator to the 12th floor, they arrived at Tang Feifei''s office.


    Su Xiaowan was already waiting there.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, this lovely girl gave a cute smile, then saluted him respectfully, "Greetings, officer!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted the girl''s shoulder, then asked, "Is Director Tang inside?"


    The young girl nodded, then looked around from left to right, her gaze pausing on Tan Huimin for a moment before she came up to Qiu Tu and, on tiptoe, whispered in his ear, "The Bureau Chief seems to be in a bad mood." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "She''s been looking gloomy all day."


    Qiu Tu nodded at this.


    Then he had Tan Huimin wait outside and himself pushed open the door to Tang Feifei''s office.


    Inside the office, Tang Feifei was holding a fountain pen, her head down as she busily wrote out a training plan.


    Ever since Qiu Tu had helped her seize power while Yan Chen was away, her influence in the Investigation Bureau had greatly increased.


    She now had many more talents at her disposal and could indirectly control and command more investigators.


    Hence, she valued these investigators she could affect enormously and, using her Tang family and Sanctuary experience, she formulated a very detailed and scientific training standard.


    In recent times, including Qiu Tu, almost all investigators under the Tang Feifei-aligned faction, controlled by The Five Elders, had undergone the specialized training designed by Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu had privately consulted his confidants such as Eagle, Ah-Tai, and Ah-Kun about the training''s effectiveness.


    He received positive feedback.


    It was said to be seven or eight times better than Lin Ting''s training.


    Although Qiu Tu hadn''t experienced it personally, he had occasionally paid attention and thought that, though "seven or eight times" might be an exaggeration, "five or six times" was quite possible.


    Just with half a month''s training, these thousands of investigators began to show a hint of a regular army''s discipline, no longer resembling the disordered mob they were before¡­


    From this, it was apparent Tang Feifei really had skills, otherwise, the Tang family wouldn''t have cultivated her as a direct heir.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t disturb Tang Feifei. He simply found a chair to sit down and waited patiently for Tang Feifei to finish her work.


    After writing for another two minutes, Tang Feifei finally signed her name with a steady hand, picked up the fountain pen cap, capped the pen, and then looked up at Qiu Tu.


    Knowing Tang Feifei''s personality well after some time, Qiu Tu could indeed sense that her mood was a bit off that day.


    So, he couldn''t help but ask with concern, "Is the matter tough to handle?"


    "I thought the loose ends were tied up quite well."


    Tang Feifei shook her head slightly, looking a bit tired, and said, "It''s not about your matter¡­"


    "It''s pressure from my family."


    At this, Qiu Tu grew curious, "Your family? What happened?"


    Tang Feifei picked up a coffee cup from the desk, took a dispassionate sip, and then said calmly, "There''s been a bit of an issue. "


    "And it does relate to you¡­"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu was genuinely surprised. "Related to me?"


    Tang Feifei nodded, her wheat-colored face etched with seriousness, "You know about Li Tingdong, right?"


    Qiu Tu was slightly taken aback, then he nodded.


    Li Tingdong was the newly appointed Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, belonging to the City Hall system. Ranked first among the Deputy Speakers, he was theoretically a half-step above Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Dai Yukang.


    If Huang Shangzong were not present, he would act as the Speaker. He was a true big shot in Dongye State, a man with authority over millions beneath just one.


    Tang Feifei spoke methodically, "He is a central figure in the ''Liberal Democratic Faction,'' highly capable and deeply valued by the faction''s upper echelons."


    "But... naturally, the ''Liberal Democratic Faction'' is a small faction, and the other larger factions have reservations about their principles."


    "Thus, they couldn''t offer Li Tingdong much support in the contest for the Deputy Speaker."


    Tang Feifei paused, "And our ''Fengtian Faction'' primarily has its roots in City Hall, including a candidate for Deputy Speaker in Dongye State named Guo Huai."


    "He''s also immensely skilled, though slightly lesser than Li Tingdong, but steadier and with a better grasp of the bigger picture."


    "Initially, we planned to elevate him to the position of Deputy Speaker. That way, the Fengtian Faction could lay down its roots in Dongye State, and my promotion would become easier."


    "Based on my grandfather''s influence, this matter wasn''t certain, but our hopes were high."


    "But then..."


    As she said this, Tang Feifei put the coffee cup back on the desk and looked deeply into Qiu Tu''s eyes, "During the discussion of nominees for Deputy Speaker, Elder Wang suddenly spoke up in support of Li Tingdong."


    ```

 Chapter 456 - 304: The Temptation of a Female Subordinate (10,000 words for a Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing the words of the men before him, the expression on Eagle''s face showed little change.


    It was as if he had long anticipated such a day, he cooperatively put down the work in his hands, and then said to the several men, "Can do. But please let me check the documents."


    As he spoke, he reached out to take the documents that the leading man handed over.


    After carefully verifying that everything was completely in order and legal, Eagle nodded, then stood up and said, "Alright. Then please lead the way."


    The men might not have expected Eagle to be so cooperative, and they exchanged glances, all reading the seriousness in each other''s eyes.


    But now that the arrow was on the bowstring, they had no choice but to continue to execute their official duties.


    Thus, in no time, Eagle was led away by the newly established Supervisory Bureau of Dongye State, right in front of the watchful eyes of many detectives from the Political Department on the 9th floor.


    For the recently reformed Political Department, this was a big deal!


    After all, who was Eagle?


    He was one of Qiu Tu''s most important confidants, a childhood friend who had grown up with Qiu Tu!


    The implication of such a person being taken away by the newly established Supervisory Bureau of Dongye State was self-evident.


    It was virtually an overt political statement: there were conflicts between the Speaker of Dongye State and Qiu Tu, and they were investigating Qiu Tu.


    Normally, upon such an event, the staff at the Investigation Bureau should be jumping on the bandwagon or keeping their distance from Qiu Tu, adopting a wait-and-see approach.


    But this time...


    The situation was somewhat different from the past...


    As soon as Eagle was taken away, Qiu Tu''s communicator was blown up with messages.


    Dozens of texts swarmed in like nobody''s business, causing the communicator of Qiu Tu, who was chatting with Tang Feifei, to keep buzzing non-stop.


    This interruption also put a pause to the conversation between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei, quite interested, glanced at the pocket of Qiu Tu''s pants and took the initiative to stop the conversation.


    Qiu Tu, on the other hand, didn''t mind. He took out his communicator, quickly skimmed through the messages, then looked up with a smile and said to Tang Feifei, "Eagle has been taken away."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a smile appeared on Tang Feifei''s charming face, "They say Huang Shangzong acts swiftly and decisively, and it seems it truly is the case."


    She picked up her own communicator from the table, glanced at it, and said, "He must have officially become the Speaker of the State Council just five minutes ago."


    "And now he has taken away Eagle."


    "That really is quick."


    Qiu Tu set his communicator to silent mode and said indifferently, "He''s probably worried about the night bringing more dreams."


    Seeing how calm Qiu Tu was, Tang Feifei took a sip of her coffee and asked curiously, "You don''t seem worried at all?"


    With an air of having a clear conscience, Qiu Tu said, "I didn''t kill the man, so what is there for me to worry about."


    "Let Chairman Huang conduct the investigation if he wishes. I''m hoping he can prove my innocence."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei chuckled lightly and reminded him, "You should know... nobody can withstand torture."


    Qiu Tu nodded and said, "So, even if I confess under torture, I don''t have to worry. After all, it''s very likely a coerced confession."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a thoughtful look flickered in Tang Feifei''s eyes, but then she didn''t seem to care anymore...


    Even though Qiu Tu was always tight-lipped and never revealed the truth about anything to her, she wasn''t a fool. Having worked with Qiu Tu on the case of Wu Zhi''s death recently, she knew the circumstances of Wu Zhi''s death were highly unusual, and it was very likely this man before her was responsible.


    At the time, she was actually shocked by Qiu Tu''s audacity, daring to kill the confidant of Huang Shangzong. Was he really not afraid of Huang Shangzong''s retaliation?


    One must know that Huang Shangzong was no ordinary figure¡ªhe was a member of the Supreme Sanctuary Council and also the Speaker of Dongye State! sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Such a prominent figure could crush Qiu Tu as easily as one would crush an ant.


    But it must be said, Qiu Tu had that kind of persuasive charm.


    However, this charm wasn''t like the "King''s Dominating Aura" often described in many TV shows or novels, but rather... it came from a series of victories.


    It is in human nature to admire strength.


    When a person can achieve victory regardless of the enemy; when they can turn the tide even against the strongest foes, those around him will inevitably believe he can overcome anything.


    Qiu Tu was such a person. His recent exploits in the Investigation Bureau were too legendary. Even as a mere First Level Detective, Deputy Staff Chief, Staff Chief, Deputy Division Chief, whether he faced Jia Shu, an Evil God, or Yan Chen... he still kept moving towards victory!


    And the most symbolic event was his remarkable comeback. After Yan Chen had stripped him of his position as Deputy Chief of the Political Department, he managed to use the Sanctuary''s power to strike from a lower dimension, not only regaining his position but even going a step further!


    He became the Director of the Political Department!


    Such a dramatic turnaround almost added an aura of invincibility around Qiu Tu.


    And now, although Huang Shangzong seemed to have a higher position... didn''t that gap between them resemble the one that used to exist between Yan Chen and Qiu Tu?


    If Qiu Tu could play Yan Chen like a fiddle, why couldn''t he deal with Huang Shangzong?


    It was this line of thinking that made Tang Feifei, despite not knowing what arrangements Qiu Tu had made or what cards he kept in his hand, still choose to trust him.


    Similarly because of this thinking, those detectives and Staff Chiefs who had never interfered with Qiu Tu''s confrontations with Yan Chen and merely watched coldly from the sidelines, were now sending messages to Qiu Tu, warning him of what was coming...

 Chapter 468 - 308: Initial Contact with Zhao Ji (10k Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    As he said this, perhaps fearing that his secretary would once again bungle matters, Huang Shangzong paused before adding in a deep voice,


    "Larilo is key to the Great Expansion Plan. She is not only the controller of that region in Xinjie City but also the sister of the Great Evil God Zhao Ji."


    "According to Dai Yukang''s intelligence, the relationship between the two is somewhat peculiar. It''s very likely that they had a falling out over the past few years, yet still, there is kinship."


    "Therefore, Zhao Ji would deter other Evil Gods for Larilo''s sake."


    "However...." Huang Shangzong paused again, his broad face filled with severity, "this can only last for so long after all."


    "If Larilo does not get in touch with Zhao Ji after a prolonged period, Zhao Ji will inevitably enter the Xinjie City area to search for Larilo; or she will withdraw her aura, allowing other Evil Gods to vie for control of the Xinjie City area."


    "We do not wish to see either of these developments."


    "So... we must find and control Larilo, using her to regularly send false signals to Zhao Ji."


    "Only in this way can the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan'' truly be carried out."


    Having finished speaking, Huang Shangzong took a deep look at the middle-aged man in front of him and said, "So... go and communicate well with the Xinjie City Security Department, to confirm that Larilo is indeed under control."


    "It would be best...."


    At this point, Huang Shangzong paused, "if the Xinjie City Security Department could transfer control of Larilo over to the State Council."


    Hearing Huang Shangzong''s analysis, the middle-aged man hastily bowed to him, "Yes, Speaker! I will take care of it right away!"


    At those words, Huang Shangzong motioned with a casual wave of his hand for him to leave.


    Huang Shangzong''s hands were rough and powerful, with distinctly pronounced knuckles, as if he could crush solid steel with his bare hands.


    Combined with his robust muscles and towering stature, he looked more like a warrior than a teacher from the ''Academic Faction.''


    In fact, he was indeed a powerful warlord. He was not only a formidable Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, but also had single-handedly withstood three Fourth-Order Evil Gods during the development of Nanqu State!


    This was a rare glorious achievement since the founding of the Eighth Sanctuary and one of the reasons why he, despite his hot temper, still held a high position, and was now even assigned to guard Dongye State...


    After the secretary left, Huang Shangzong looked at the closed office door, and the anger he''d been suppressing in his heart could be concealed no longer!


    He violently flipped over the massive rosewood desk in front of him!


    A loud crash echoed as stacks of documents and pens scattered across the floor, and the desk itself flew through the air, tracing a parabola before smashing violently to the ground!


    At this spectacle, Huang Shangzong took a deep breath, then suddenly stretched out a hand and reached forward, arresting the several-hundred-pound solid wood desk in mid-air with one hand.


    This was clearly not his limit: the desk did not even shake throughout the entire process.


    Placing the desk back in its original spot in mid-air, Huang Shangzong''s face darkened as he gestured to gather the scattered items from the floor onto the table.


    After completing these actions, Huang Shangzong took another deep breath, then turned and stood by the window with his hands behind his back.


    No wonder he lost his temper.


    Usually, the troubles caused by his confidants and subordinates were numerous, but he didn''t care. After all, they were his people, and it was normal for him to clean up after his confidants and subordinates.


    But... today was his first day as the Speaker of Dongye State!


    On such an important day, to be schemed against like this, he truly felt he had lost all face!


    ''Qiu Tu...''


    Mentally reciting the name of the prime instigator, Huang Shangzong, standing with his back to the window, bore a gaze burning with intense fury, as if it could scorch away everything...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    In the State Council building, the former head of Xinjie City Military Department, now Deputy Speaker of Dongye State Ye Mingfeng''s office. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ye Mingfeng was discussing the clash between Qiu Tu and Huang Shangzong with Dai Yukang.


    The two had always been close in rank, more partners than superior and subordinate. Now that they were equated, their interactions had become even more casual.


    Ye Mingfeng, leaning back in his chair, shook his head and said, "That''s always been Chairman Huang''s problem...."


    "Back in the Sanctuary, he was known for being ''broad-hearted'' and ''lacking discernment,'' quite reminiscent of the ancient Lord Mengchang."


    "The retainers he gathered were all non-academy graduates, and although somewhat capable, they had greater issues."


    "He often had to clean up after them."


    "Thus... over the years, there were few who could truly assist him. If it weren''t for his genuine competence and strength, he''d probably have been dragged down long ago."


    Upon hearing Ye Mingfeng''s assessment, Dai Yukang replied with a chuckle, "That only shows Chairman Huang is poor at judging people. On someone in such a high position, this flaw is too fatal."


    Ye Mingfeng nodded slightly, then added pensively, "Indeed. That''s why we often lament that if the ''Academic Faction'' were to take charge, it would be troublesome."


    "It wouldn''t be long before it began to decline."


    "Just like how Qiu Tu exposed the incident of Chairman Huang''s confidant arresting people without evidence to set them up, making the ''Academic Faction'' council members who knew about it feel somewhat ashamed."


    Ye Mingfeng, with a smile, continued, "Yeah... Dongye State has just been established. Everyone up and down has been paying attention to what''s going on in the State."


    "Yet suddenly, such a huge drama erupts. Even without Qiu Tu making a fuss, almost all the high-level officials knew about it very quickly."


    "Chairman Huang''s image has truly taken a hit...."


    As they spoke of Qiu Tu, Ye Mingfeng naturally progressed to discussing him further.

 Chapter 469 - 308: Initial Contact with Zhao Ji (10,000 Words to Request Monthly Tickets!)_2

    He looked at Dai Yukang and asked, "What do you think of Qiu Tu?"


    Upon hearing this, Dai Yukang also put away his smile. He sat on the chair opposite Ye Mingfeng and fell into silent contemplation for two seconds before speaking eight words, "Vast ambitions, intelligent and courageous."


    He said, "Actually, anyone with clear eyes could see that Wu Zhi was killed by him."


    "Now that Chairman Huang has taken office, it would be quite an achievement for him not to be frightened and trembling. Unexpectedly, no one thought that he would take the initiative to act, laying a trap for Huang Shangzong''s people to fall into."


    At this, Dai Yukang paused, then seriously added, "If I''m not mistaken, it''s very possible that Huang Shangzong''s people were deliberately lured there by him from the start."


    "He deliberately led the investigators there, then guided them in their investigation, and they ultimately uncovered the truth that he wanted them to find."


    "This preemptive move was played beautifully."


    "He is a talent indeed." S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After listening to Dai Yukang''s assessment, Ye Mingfeng nodded slightly. Then, his tone suddenly changed, "I heard that Rilo is in his hands?"


    When Ye Mingfeng suddenly brought up this topic, Dai Yukang''s smile blossomed just as abruptly.


    He chuckled, "Confidential."


    Ye Mingfeng looked at him intently, feigning dissatisfaction, "I can''t know either?"


    Dai Yukang laughed, "General, the Security Bureau has already become independent."


    Upon hearing this, Ye Mingfeng huffed lightly, not pressing any further.


    He simply reminded, "Rilo is such a key figure. If you can keep control yourself, do so."


    "Don''t let any issues arise later that might affect the grand development plan and result in a total loss."


    Upon hearing this, Dai Yukang only smiled and did not respond...


    He... had his own arrangements.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu still did not know that just after "the death of Wu Zhi," the bigwigs of Dongye State had set their sights on Rilo, whom he controlled.


    At that moment, he continued to sweet-talk Rilo.


    "Your Highness, after a night of contemplation, you should have realized the sincerity of my feelings, haven''t you?"


    Rilo "heh heh" laughed twice, not taking the bait.


    Qiu Tu was not bothered.


    He said, "Your Highness may not quite trust me now, but... I believe that I will soon prove my loyalty."


    Having said this, Qiu Tu revealed his true intentions, "Your Highness, I plan to contact Her Highness Zhao Ji to help you escape your current predicament."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Rilo, who was trapped within the Soul Shackles, suddenly lit up.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, then asked, "Is what you''re saying true?"


    Qiu Tu answered with a serious face, "Of course."


    He continued, "Moreover... there''s no way I could deceive you about this, right?"


    "After I contact Her Highness Zhao Ji, she will definitely come to save you. You''ll know if someone arrives, won''t you?"


    Rilo was as stunning as always that day.


    Although she existed in the world as a Spiritual Body, this also gave her the ability to freely change her form and attire.


    Today, her delicate features were like that of an elf''s, with deep crimson eyes, profound and indifferent. Her lips were as red as blood, exuding a bizarre beauty.


    She, with her feet as white as jade bare, had "changed" into a black velvet spaghetti strap long dress. The dress clung to her exquisite figure, showcasing her devilish curves to the fullest...


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, this Heretic Goddess Girl, while absentmindedly swinging her delicate little jojo, seemed to contemplate deeply. The hem of her black velvet strap long dress fluttered gently with her movements, like black butterflies dancing in the dark of night.


    It all seemed reasonable to her...


    There was no use for Qiu Tu to deceive her. She wouldn''t tell him any secret information just because he contacted Zhao Ji.


    So, even if he had some interests he wanted to exchange, he would surely have to wait until Zhao Ji rescued her before that could happen.


    So... she had nothing to worry about.


    After all, it was like "paying after delivery."


    Only if Qiu Tu brought Zhao Ji to her would she need to pay the price.


    It couldn''t be that Qiu Tu had sweet-talked her for so long just to make contact with Zhao Ji, could it?


    What use would contacting Zhao Ji be to him? Could he deceive her, and would he be able to deceive her sister, Zhao Ji?


    Thinking this, Rilo did not hide anything and told Qiu Tu how to contact Zhao Ji.


    According to her, the method she had previously taught Qiu Tu - "offering incense, silently reciting one''s name" - was now useless.


    The reason why it worked before was that she had not yet fallen and still controlled a region of Xinjie City corresponding with the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Before her consciousness descended, she had set a trigger code on her true body.


    Once the code was triggered, the true body would seek help from Zhao Ji.


    But now... as she had fallen, that kind of mediated call for help no longer worked.


    Qiu Tu would have to travel to Eastern City, to Zhao Ji''s territory, and then try to call out to Zhao Ji using the method Rilo had taught him...


    After carefully memorizing the detailed method of contacting Zhao Ji, Qiu Tu cautiously inquired for other information.


    He asked, "Your Highness, what if Her Highness Zhao Ji does not believe me?"


    "Do you have any token, or something that could prove the relationship between you and me?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Rilo, who was trapped like a lovely music box princess within the Soul Shackles, rolled her pretty eyes in exasperation, saying, "Does it look like I''m in a state to have a token?"


    "The method I just told you is our exclusive way of communicating," she said.

 Chapter 470 - 308: Initial Contact with Zhao Ji (10,000 Words to Request Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "Contact her this way, and she''ll have to believe you,"


    After speaking, perhaps feeling that she now relied on Qiu Tu, she thought she should respect his opinion more. So after a moment of contemplation, she eventually added, "Yu Yue, when I was very little, I liked to call her Sister Yueyue..."


    "This is a name that only the two of us knew."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu asked curiously, "Does this name hold any special meaning?"


    Larilo said nonchalantly, "What else could it be for? My name has the character for ''sun'' in it, and her ''Zhao'' contains the character for ''moon.'' So, we just went with that."


    Larilo''s explanation was simple, but Qiu Tu silently took note of it.


    Next, Qiu Tu cautiously inquired about other clues and topics from Larilo.


    It was only after Larilo was questioned to exhaustion that Qiu Tu ended their conversation. By that time, he belatedly realized that it had already turned dark...


    ''Have we been talking for so long?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu began to pack up Larilo.


    Closing the interrogation record book in his hand, Qiu Tu walked to the bedside, gazed at the azure moon outside the window, and then estimated the time.


    The distance between Eastern City and Xinjie City wasn''t far; driving along the official road should only take about three and a half hours.


    So... a round trip tonight, he could definitely make it. At worst, he just wouldn''t sleep.


    With this thought, Qiu Tu didn''t delay. He called Tan Huimin, and together they went downstairs, drove to purchase the necessary items for the ritual, and then... headed towards the Eastern City District...


    ...


    At 8 p.m., the two reached Eastern City.


    Since this visit was for a "private matter," Qiu Tu didn''t alert anyone.


    He wanted to come quietly and leave just as silently, without anyone being the wiser.


    After asking a few locals, Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin arrived at the most luxurious Skytop Hotel in Eastern City.


    They rented a suite in the hotel, and with the hotel staff''s snickering expressions, they "hurriedly" went to their room...


    Once inside the room, Qiu Tu asked Tan Huimin to stand guard in the outer room while he began the ritual in the bedroom...


    Qiu Tu first took out four white candles and placed them in the four corners of the room.


    Then he lit twelve incense sticks and inserted them into the incense burner, positioning it by the window of the room.


    Subsequently, he walked around the bed counterclockwise three times and then clockwise twice.


    Finally, he softly called out three times, "Zhao Ji... Zhao Ji... Zhao Ji..."


    During the ritual, Qiu Tu was tense all over, his gaze fixated on the upper left corner.


    He was ready to stop the ritual immediately if Crisis Countdown was triggered.


    Luckily, the ritual continued without triggering Crisis Intuition. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So Qiu Tu breathed a slight sigh of relief, then he climbed onto the bed and, following the last step taught by Larilo, he found the central position in the room and slowly lay down¡­


    Strangely enough, as Qiu Tu lay down, the white candles in the four corners of the pitch-black room suddenly flared up with a "poof!"


    Blue flames rose three feet high, casting numerous tentacle-like shadows throughout the room.


    And Qiu Tu felt as if his body had become weightless. He was clearly lying on the bed, but... as he tilted to 180 degrees, he continued to fall downward.


    Finally, as if standing on his head, his body was positioned upside down in that surreal space.


    After what felt like an indeterminate amount of time, perhaps a minute or maybe seven to eight minutes, a cold voice Qiu Tu once heard whispered in his ear, "Who are you?"


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu answered, "I am... your brother-in-law."


    Zhao Ji: ??


    In the darkness, silence fell for a moment...


    --------

 Chapter 471 - 309: Larilo is My Woman (10,000-word plea for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu wasn''t teasing Zhao Ji on purpose; rather, he had his own objectives.


    During his recent interactions with Larilo, he had discovered a very important issue:


    Individuals as significant as Old Master Qin and Jia Wei, such valuable allies, Larilo could readily discard or sell them off.


    This indicates that although the Evil God considered believers as tools for gathering power and as a means for descending, He...didn''t particularly value them.


    This might be because the source of the Evil God''s power still originated from within Himself, and the aid from the believers wasn''t as substantial as one might assume.


    So, if Qiu Tu were to tell Zhao Ji that he was a follower of Larilo, in the eyes of someone like Zhao Ji, a Great Evil God, it would be equivalent to Qiu Tu introducing himself as: I am a disposable, one-time... item of Larilo.


    Therefore, after Qiu Tu devised his plan to deceive Zhao Ji, he began to ponder which identity he should use.


    After much consideration, he felt that the role of Larilo''s partner was most appropriate.


    Such a special status could not only draw Zhao Ji''s attention, but also deter her from acting rashly. It would lend more weight to his words¡ªa win-win on all counts.


    Of course... when he was formulating this plan, he also feared that Zhao Ji might not accept a mere human as a "brother-in-law" and might disregard Larilo''s feelings and kill him outright.


    So, when he revealed his "identity," he deliberately drew out his words, elongating the "I am...." to give himself time to react.


    If Crisis Countdown raised an alert, he would immediately change his statement. If not, then he would continue speaking.


    Now it seems...everything is at least moving in a positive direction.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu did not bother about Zhao Ji''s silence. He kept an eye on the prompts from Crisis Countdown and proceeded with his plan, "Sister Yueyue, I actually have urgent matters to discuss with you this time!"


    "Little Lar seems to be in trouble...."


    The address "Sister Yueyue" seemed to trigger a keyword.


    In that moment, Qiu Tu felt as if he could perceive the oppressive scrutinous gaze of Zhao Ji slowly turning towards him from the darkness.


    Time seemed to stretch in that instant....


    Only after a while did Zhao Ji coolly "hmm" in acknowledgment, as if indicating she was listening.


    Qiu Tu let out a soft sigh of relief and then said, "I met Little Lar four months ago."


    "At that time, she wanted to recruit me to serve her, even promising me the position of ''Archbishop.''


    "But... I fell in love with her at first sight. I just wanted to be with her."


    "So, I gave up the offered position of ''Archbishop'' and began to pursue her."


    "At first, she didn''t really want to accept me. But..."


    Qiu Tu slowly recounted his "past" with Larilo, mixing lies with a glimmer of truth.


    Since most of it was a "retelling" of actual events, with plenty of details and little habits and quirks of Larilo to corroborate, it sounded incredibly real.


    However, Zhao Ji was clearly not someone who enjoyed long-winded stories, so she abruptly interrupted Qiu Tu with a cold, "Get to the point."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took the advice readily and skipped the various complications of his love-hate relationship with Larilo... then went straight to saying, "Alright, Sister Yueyue."


    "Little Lar might have realized long ago that she could have been set up by someone. That''s why before she pretended to be Yan Chen''s daughter, she told me that if she really was in trouble, I shouldn''t panic and should come directly to you."


    "She said that you could sense her current situation and know whether she is alive or not."


    "Afterward, she instructed me to follow your arrangements."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused for a moment, then added, "As for the ritual and method used for summoning you, she told me all of it as well."


    "So... how is Little Lar doing now? Is she still alive?"


    "Can we... save her?"


    After finishing, Qiu Tu stopped and then quietly waited for Zhao Ji''s response.


    In the darkness, Zhao Ji fell into a long silence.


    She seemed indeed to be a woman of few words. From the beginning of her meeting with Qiu Tu, she had only spoken a few words, and each time just a word or two.


    Furthermore, since she had not shown herself from start to finish, Qiu Tu couldn''t quite grasp her psychological state and thus dared not make any hasty moves.


    In this way, Zhao Ji fell silent for a full minute before slowly beginning, "She''s not dead. But... her condition is grave."


    Qiu Tu, anxious, quickly said, "Can I ask Sister Yueyue to save her?"


    "She must be in desperate need of your help now." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zhao Ji once again lapsed into a few seconds of silence before saying coldly, "She''s alive but has neither contacted you nor me, which means she doesn''t need our help for the time being."


    Qiu Tu, however, had a different view, "Could she be in some kind of danger? Like being imprisoned by someone?"


    "So, she couldn''t get in touch with us?"


    If it had been someone else observing Qiu Tu''s genuine concern for Larilo, his continuous analysis and conjecture, they might have believed him, or even started to analyze the situation with him.


    But Zhao Ji was different. She obviously held very strong convictions.


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she responded coldly, "That''s a possibility. But, what of it?"


    "If she can''t even handle this amount of trouble, even becoming a deity again would only make her prey for others."

 Chapter 472 - 309: Larilo is My Woman (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu had now fully adopted the identity of Larilo''s boyfriend, and he looked at the darkness before him with a shocked face and then said with some disbelief, "How can you say that?"


    "You are her sister, aren''t you?"


    "Now that she''s in trouble, aren''t you anxious? Don''t you want to save her?"


    "Are you fit to be her sister?"


    It was a rare opportunity to directly scold a Great Evil God, and Qiu Tu certainly wouldn''t let it pass. He opened his mouth, ready to spout a few more rebukes.


    But just then,


    a flash suddenly appeared before his eyes.


    The next second, rows of prompts also appeared in his vision.


    "Crisis Intuition activated! Generating Crisis Report!"


    "The Great Evil God Zhaohui is getting angry because of your offense."


    "She believes that only a fool like you would believe the nonsense about sisterly love that Larilo talks about."


    "In fact, the two of them had fallen out over something many years ago. It was already quite something that she would lift a finger for Larilo, considering they were twins."


    "But as far as Larilo is concerned, her heart is filled only with loathing and estrangement."


    "As someone related to Larilo, the fact that she doesn''t slap you to death is only because she doesn''t want to dirty her hands."


    "If you continue to offend her, she won''t let you leave her Divine Domain Space."


    Seeing the prompts from Crisis Intuition, Qiu Tu decisively shut his mouth.


    His only virtue was his heart.


    If Zhaohui couldn''t handle criticism, then he would simply stop talking.


    Qiu Tu''s sudden "hard brake" brought silence to the dark space once again.


    And the Crisis Countdown hourglass in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s view, after slowly ticking for a dozen seconds or so, gradually came to a halt.


    For a moment, seeing that Zhaohui seemed not to want to bother with him, Qiu Tu coughed and then tried to ask, "Sister Yueyue... if you don''t want to save Little Lar, can I go save her?"


    "Can you tell me how I can save her?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zhaohui finally spoke after two seconds of silence.


    She said, "Right now, she is probably just a wisp of consciousness and soul. Whether it''s her abilities, strength, or status, everything has dissipated. Are you sure you still want to follow her?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said without any hesitation, "Little Lar is my woman. No matter what happens to her, I will never leave her side!"


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu silently added to himself: Of course... along with the other women.


    Yeah, that''s Qiu Tu for you¡ªso affectionate yet devoted...


    Qiu Tu''s words seemed to have truly "moved" Zhaohui.


    She finally revealed the method to help Larilo.


    She said coolly, "In that case. You can start by finding her and nurturing her wisp of consciousness and soul."


    "Once it''s grown strong enough, then think of a way to bring her back to the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "By then, she will know what to do."


    Qiu Tu had come here today to get the lowdown on Zhaohui and Larilo.


    So naturally, he wouldn''t just accept half an answer and leave.


    Although he knew it was a bit dangerous to ask, he still tentatively asked, "Is it about having Little Lar take control of the Xinjie Territory again to regain her strength?"


    As Qiu Tu''s words came out, in that instant, he once again felt a formidable pressure descend upon him.


    He struggled to keep his composure and continued, "I remember Little Lar once told me that she wasn''t the controller of the Xinjie Territory."


    "The original controller of the Xinjie Territory was a massive Wood Dragon that monopolized the region."


    "It was you who disposed of the Wood Dragon in one move, then left the territory for her."


    "She... has always been very grateful to you."


    A cold "heh" came from the darkness.


    The voice was somewhat mocking and aloof, but... the pressure on Qiu Tu was lifted.


    Zhaohui simply dropped a sentence, "Yes. As long as she takes control of the region in the Boundless Heart Sea, she can quickly increase her status and strength."


    "Each region has a Central Hub, but the Hub could take various forms¡ªit could be terrain, rocks, plants, animals, or even a person."


    "The Central Hub of the Xinjie Territory is hidden by her. She knows best where it is and what it is, so you don''t need to worry about that."


    Having said this, Zhaohui eventually ran out of patience with Qiu Tu. She didn''t even listen to his probing and explanations anymore and simply waved her hand, banishing Qiu Tu from her Divine Domain!


    And after expelling Qiu Tu, the figure of a woman gradually emerged within the darkness.


    She appeared to be in her early thirties. She bore a resemblance to Larilo, and one could say she was ravishingly beautiful.


    Her eyes were as deep as the icy pools, shimmering with a cold light; her skin was fair, as if each inch had been purified by frost and snow, impeccable and flawless.


    This made her seem even more like an eternal iceberg, beautiful and noble.


    She quietly watched the spot where Qiu Tu had just been standing, a cold light flickering in her eyes...


    "Brother-in-law...? Heh heh..."


    "How interesting...."


    "Then I''ll give you a gift. I hope you don''t disappoint me...."


    With that, she waved her hand again, and a white light shot into the darkness.


    Having done this, she did not linger, but stepped into the eastern darkness.


    ''Chaos, let there be chaos... Only chaos is eternal....''


    As she walked away, eight points of light slowly emerged on her forehead, symbolizing the Eight Great Regions she controlled in the Boundless Heart Sea!


    But... right next to those eight points of light, a ninth was also flickering into existence...


    ... S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile, at the same time that Zhaohui was penetrating into the ninth region.

 Chapter 473 - 309: Larilo is My Woman (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)_3

    At this moment, Qiu Tu in the hotel room was like a tourist plunged into water, suddenly sitting upright, then gasping for breath with large, labored inhales and exhales!


    A trace of fear and disorientation still lingered on his face.


    The footsteps of Tan Huimin pacing outside clearly indicated she heard the unusual noises from Qiu Tu, but since they had agreed she must not enter the bedroom no matter what happened, she could only walk back and forth in the living room, worried.


    Listening to the anxious footsteps outside, Qiu Tu slowly regained his composure.


    He turned his head to glance at the four corners of the room. At some point, the four white candles had completely burned out, leaving nothing but wax on the floor.


    And in the center of the room, the 12 sticks of incense had been reduced to nothing but ash.


    Adding to the messy sheets on the bed, one could say the room was in complete disarray.


    However, Qiu Tu paid no attention to these details; he was reviewing his recent encounter with Zhao Ji.


    All in all... he had essentially achieved his goals.


    The reason he took such a huge risk to contact Zhao Ji was, in fact, for three main purposes.


    First, to personally meet the current Zhao Ji.


    To see what kind of person this Great Evil God was, who had taken over half of Dongye State, controlled the Eight Great Regions, and was seen as a thorn in the side by the Sanctuary.


    Second, to confirm the relationship between Larilo and Zhao Ji and see if there was anything he could exploit.


    Third... to delay Zhao Ji in rescuing Larilo.


    Qiu Tu had achieved the first two objectives.


    From his contact with Zhao Ji, Qiu Tu felt that the current Zhao Ji was indeed quite different from the "Memory Fragment" depiction of Zhao Ji.


    The present Zhao Ji was noticeably more profound and reserved. She seemed to prefer "Hidden Edge".


    This could be inferred from her reticence and reluctance to express her own opinions.


    More importantly, Qiu Tu sensed that Zhao Ji probably did not believe him.


    But it was as if she had some other pressing matter, was in a hurry;


    Or perhaps since Qiu Tu''s words mixed truth with lies, although she didn''t believe him, she couldn''t figure out his relationship with her sister, and she couldn''t be bothered to investigate further, so she let Qiu Tu off the hook...


    This perception permeated all their conversations.


    Zhao Ji knew Qiu Tu was a liar, and Qiu Tu also knew that Zhao Ji was aware of his deceit, but both tacitly continued the charade...


    The reason for this, Qiu Tu speculated, was likely related to Zhao Ji''s relationship with Larilo.


    Although he had learned from Liu Xiongyuan early on that the two sisters had conflicts, according to "Crisis Intuition," it seemed almost irreparable.


    So, even though she detected something amiss in Qiu Tu, and suspected his malicious intentions, Zhao Ji deliberately revealed some information to him anyway.


    Such as the most crucial point... that controlling the Boundless Heart Sea Region required finding the region''s Central Hub.


    And the Central Hub of the Xinjie Territory was in Larilo''s possession. Even though she had perished, she still knew the hiding place...


    This was probably what Larilo had pinned all her hopes on for a turnaround!


    But now... Zhao Ji had easily divulged this to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu guessed that she was trying to "entice" him, making him search for the region''s Central Hub in advance.


    Only... what Qiu Tu couldn''t understand was:


    Larilo clearly trusted that Zhao Ji would rescue her, and indeed, Zhao Ji had also intimidated the other Evil Gods, giving Larilo a chance to retake control of the Xinjie Territory...


    So why would Zhao Ji want him to look for the Central Hub?


    Was it... confidence that he wouldn''t find it? Simply adding chaos to Larilo''s situation.


    Or... did she want to help Larilo for some reason but also wanted to use someone else''s hand to eliminate her own sister...


    And with this thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help reflecting on the "gift" Zhao Ji had given him...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu placed his right hand in front of him, opened it, and a simple, old coin quietly lay there.


    The coin appeared somewhat similar to Larilo''s, clearly also a device for communicating with Cataclysmic treasures.


    Considering who this Cataclysmic treasure could connect with, Qiu Tu felt as if Zhao Ji was deliberately muddling the waters...


    ------ sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 474 - 310: Really Became a Multi-faced Spy (10,000 words for a Monthly Ticket!)

    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu casually found a newspaper in the room, then cut it into a mask and put it on his face.


    Afterward, he followed the method of using this coin that Zhao Ji had told him during the "Return," caressing the coin three times and then flicked it into the air.


    The next second, the coin continuously rotated in mid-air completely defying the laws of physics, spinning endlessly like a perpetual motion machine.


    It kept spinning for three seconds, then the coin exploded into a screen of light.


    What appeared on the screen was a middle-aged man dressed in a khaki uniform, holding a black knitted balaclava hat, and a large red cross drawn on his chest.


    Paired with the two bars and two stars on the shoulder rank insignia of his khaki uniform...


    He was unmistakably... a colonel of the Anti-Government Armed Alliance.


    As an organized anti-government military force, the Alliance''s military ranks were similar to those of the Sanctuary; a colonel was already a senior officer.


    They generally served as deputies in urban defense or as deputy division commanders, true power brokers!


    Even if the quality of the Alliance''s soldiers might be slightly inferior to those of the Sanctuary, the influence of an Alliance colonel was still very significant.


    And he... was Zhao Ji''s gift.


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was thinking this, the Alliance colonel first looked carefully at the newspaper mask on Qiu Tu''s face and then respectfully saluted him,


    "Divine Envoy, sir! Hello, I am Wu Yun, the captain of the United Front Special Warfare Squad 3! I am mainly responsible for infiltrating Xinjie City, and taking control of the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region!"


    "And all members of the United Front in Xinjie City are under my command!"


    "Just now, I have received a divine mandate. All actions this time are under your command."


    "So, please give your orders. How shall we carry out our next tasks!"


    Qiu Tu:...


    Indeed, Zhao Ji''s gift to Qiu Tu was a Special Warfare Squad of the Alliance.


    This squad was no ordinary team of soldiers.


    According to what Qiu Tu knew... in the Alliance, a group referred to as a Special Warfare Squad usually consisted of more than 20 members.


    Moreover, this squad had to be entirely members who were Cataclysmics, with at least five Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened and one Third Order Cataclysmic.


    On top of that, the Special Warfare Squad wielded heavy firepower and had unlimited jurisdiction over the region ¡ª they could freely mobilize all Alliance members in the area.


    So, the combat power of this squad... was almost equivalent to half of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Even without Zhao Ji''s explanation, Qiu Tu could guess ¡ª this squad likely came to Xinjie City to find Larilo and to control the corresponding region in the Boundless Heart Sea for the New Realm.


    That means... they were actually competitors to Qiu Tu, and Qin Shuman, and the Sanctuary!


    And now, Zhao Ji had handed this squad over to Qiu Tu, leaving him at a loss for how to manage this team.


    He surely couldn''t... just sell them for merit, could he?


    That would be too wasteful of this impressively powerful squad.


    The reason Qiu Tu thought Zhao Ji might be deliberately muddying the waters was that this squad was clearly an elite force of the Alliance, key participants in the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Project."


    Under such circumstances, Zhao Ji had entrusted them to the enigmatic Qiu Tu.


    The devil knows how Qiu Tu will end up deploying this special squad of the Alliance.


    So... it''s clear that he''s trying to stir the pot, aiming to cause further chaos in Xinjie City.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but remember the third reason for his risky contact with Zhao Ji...


    His third purpose was actually quite straightforward.


    It was to proactively take on the task of "searching" for Larilo.


    That is... to insert himself between Larilo and Zhao Ji.


    To add an additional process between two people who could have connected directly.


    The reason Qiu Tu did this was that he still couldn''t understand the relationship between Larilo and Zhao Ji.


    Although Zhao Ji''s demeanor seemed very dissatisfied with Larilo,


    it must be said that Zhao Ji did indeed extend help to Larilo.


    This indicates... when Larilo faces real trouble or fails to make contact for too long, Zhao Ji is likely to intervene eventually.


    Therefore, to prevent such a situation, Qiu Tu decided to stand between the two sisters and serve as a "messenger," blocking direct communication between them.


    Once he controlled the sisters'' communication channels, all he needed to do was ensure that Larilo wouldn''t actually perish and periodically provide updates to Zhao Ji to keep her at bay, buying time for the Sanctuary''s "Great Development Plan" and for Qiu Tu''s plan to "seize control of the Xinjie Territory"...


    Now, regardless of whether Zhao Ji saw through it or not, at least the information she inadvertently revealed allowed Qiu Tu to complete his mission very smoothly.


    Except for... the Alliance colonel in front of him and his Special Warfare Squad.


    With these thoughts... Qiu Tu also came back to his senses.


    He looked at the Alliance colonel in the light screen, lowered his voice, and began to speak slowly, "Hello, Colonel Wu."


    "How are things progressing with you now?" S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Alliance colonel Wu Yun said, "Reporting to the Divine Envoy, we have successfully entered Xinjie City in batches and have gone into hiding."


    "And, I have made successful contact with spies in City Hall, The military, and the Investigation Bureau."


    "I have roughly figured out the current progress of the Sanctuary''s Boundless Heart Sea development."


    Saying this, he paused. Seeing that Qiu Tu had not interrupted and was listening intently, he continued, "The Sanctuary has sent seven or eight experts to the region corresponding to the Boundless Heart Sea and Xinjie City."

 Chapter 475 - 310: Really Became a Multi-faced Spy (10,000 words for a Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ```


    "And they started transporting detection equipment to the area using Cataclysmic treasures."


    "We estimate that after the detections are completed in the next few days, it''s very likely that they will start assembling troops for official exploration!"


    "So, during this time, we''ve also been trying every means to delay the progress of the Sanctuary." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''ve even entered the Boundless Heart Sea several times to attack these research personnel."


    "It''s just that they might have been on guard early on, so it turned out, no harm was done..."


    After listening to Wu Yun''s introduction, Qiu Tu''s brows slightly furrowed behind the newspaper mask: City Hall, the Investigation Bureau, and the military all have spies?


    It''s unexpected that the United Front''s infiltration in Xinjie City is so deep.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu was also about to open his mouth to probe the identities of those few spies.


    However, just at this moment, Wu Yun spoke again.


    He said, "By the way, Divine Envoy."


    "If you come to Xinjie City, you must be extra careful around the current Head of the Investigation Bureau Political Department: Qiu Tu."


    "This person is not simple. We have been thwarted by him several times."


    "Moreover, he is ruthless and scheming. Especially adept at using conspiracy and trickery, very formidable."


    "Now, he has successfully risen to the position of Head of the Political Department and has started overseeing the secret front of the Investigation Bureau."


    "We will have to be more cautious with our subsequent actions. Don''t let him catch a whiff of anything."


    After hearing Wu Yun''s words, Qiu Tu:...


    To be honest, if not for confirming through micro-expressions that Wu Yun was telling the truth, he would have suspected that Wu Yun had recognized his identity and was flattering him in a roundabout way...


    After some curt exchanges with Wu Yun, Qiu Tu did not rashly ask about their current hideout.


    Instead, after encouraging them to stand by and not act rashly for the time being, he disconnected the communication.


    Looking at the coin that had fallen from the sky to the ground, Qiu Tu walked over, bent down to pick up the coin, then pocketed it.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu walked to the window, lit a cigarette, and while gazing out at the bustling night scene of Eastern City, he smoked quietly.


    He sorted through his current situation and, inexplicably, found it to be somewhat ludicrous...


    First, he was now the Director of the Investigation Bureau Political Department;


    Second, he was the agent for the Security Bureau in Xinjie City, with direct command over the Security Department;


    And now... he had even become the "commander" of the United Front Special Combat Team tonight, a true spy!


    These contradictory and bizarre triple identities on one person made him feel a bit strange.


    So... was this operation essentially "catching himself"?


    Was he performing a grand solo act in Xinjie City?


    The more he thought about it, the stranger Qiu Tu found the situation, which made him reflect...


    ''Could things really be this simple?''


    ''Zhao Ji, Huang Shangzong, Ye Mingfeng, Yan Chen... would they really let me off so easily?''


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but develop an ominous foreboding.


    He felt that what was to come in Xinjie City would likely not be so simple.


    Whether it''s the State Council, Sanctuary, or the Evil Gods in the Boundless Heart Sea Region, they might all set their sights on this juicy piece of flesh.


    The reason they had "lent" so much power to him was probably just to see him muddle the situation completely or to strike at other rivals.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu was momentarily stunned.


    He felt that if this were the case, the several forces he held were not entirely reliable.


    To emerge victorious amidst the surrounding wolves, he must walk a tightrope, maintaining the surface balance, not letting things spiral out of control, even in the slightest...


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was reflecting, something flashed in front of him.


    The next second, lines of prompts also appeared in his vision.


    "Crisis Intuition triggered! Crisis report generated!"


    "Due to Larilo''s fall, the region of the Boundless Heart Sea corresponding to Xinjie City is temporarily vacant."


    "Many forces are interested in this, and many want to stake their claim."


    "Not only the Investigation Bureau faction, the military faction, the State Council, the United Front, the Evil Gods, but also... forces from other Sanctuaries."


    "Right now, the entire Xinjie City is like an extremely calm lake, but no one knows the undercurrents already surging beneath."


    "Please try your best to maintain the balance of various forces, surreptitiously seize the fruits of victory, and keep your identity hidden."


    "You wouldn''t want to know how much scrutiny will come your way if this fruit of victory falls into the hands of other forces."


    "You also wouldn''t want to know how much danger you''ll face if you don''t keep your identity well-concealed..."


    As the prompt ended, this "Crisis Warning" transformed into a new countdown hourglass that hung in the upper left corner of Qiu Tu''s vision.


    Looking at this "Crisis Intuition" prompt, Qiu Tu''s face first revealed an expression of "as expected."


    Then his expression instantly turned grim: not just the State, the United Front, and the Evil Gods? Other Sanctuaries are involved too?


    ''Indeed, a masterless region of the Boundless Heart Sea Region is enough to drive anyone mad...''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu stopped his musings, extinguished the cigarette butt, and left the bedroom.


    Tan Huimin was still anxiously waiting outside.


    Seeing Qiu Tu emerge unharmed, she finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu asked Tan Huimin to clean up the bedroom, tidying away all the ritualistic items. Then... he and Tan Huimin went downstairs, checked out of the room, got into the car, and drove away from Eastern City, heading towards Xinjie City...


    ```

 Chapter 476 - 310: Really Became a Multi-faced Spy (10,000 words for a Monthly Ticket!)_3

    What they didn''t notice was that when they were checking out of the hotel, a young onlooker had cast several curious glances at them. After confirming Qiu Tu''s identity, a flicker of strangeness passed through the young person''s eyes before he hurried upstairs...


    ...


    When Qiu Tu set out for Eastern City, it was 6 P.M. in the evening.


    By the time he returned to Xinjie City, it was past 2 A.M.


    Because it was so late, Qiu Tu didn''t go home.


    As for Tan Huimin... after having driven back and forth for 7 hours, she was too tired to want to return home at that point.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had her stay in his independent office on the 12th floor.


    As one of Xinjie City''s nine top executives, Qiu Tu''s office on the 12th floor finally had its own independent rest area, with a fitness room, a study, a living room, a bedroom...


    And with new bedding and pillows, it wasn''t a problem for the two of them to stay there temporarily for the night.


    He sent Tan Huimin to take a shower first.


    Qiu Tu then went to the safe in the study, entered the password, and opened it.


    Larilo, who was shackled by the "Soul Shackles," still lay there quietly.


    Perhaps because it was so boring to be locked inside the dark safe, Larilo had fallen asleep on the altar.


    Qiu Tu had placed her in the safe as a safety measure.


    The ritual to summon Zhao Ji had been taught to Qiu Tu by Larilo, and he couldn''t guarantee she hadn''t left behind some way of keeping in touch with Zhao Ji¡ªfor example, allowing Larilo to communicate directly with Zhao Ji.


    As a result, Qiu Tu didn''t dare to take Larilo with him on his trip to Eastern City this time.


    As for leaving her with Tang Feifei or Qin Shuman? sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Frankly speaking... wouldn''t that be like letting the wolf guard the sheep?


    Even though both women were his close partners, the potential gains from Larilo were simply too great.


    Qiu Tu didn''t want to test human nature with benefits. After all, human nature is the least resilient when tested.


    And to leave Larilo with a confidant to guard her?


    Qiu Tu felt that would have been an even more conspicuous move.


    Nowadays, too many were watching him; if he dared to leave her with a confidant, those people would be bold enough to kill the confidant and forcefully take her away.


    So, after much consideration, Qiu Tu decided... the most dangerous place might be the safest.


    He simply put Larilo straight into the safe and then left.


    Other forces would find it hard to guess that he would dare to place such an important item in a safe; they would suspect he had taken Larilo with him.


    This is why... Larilo could lie there safely in the safe for so long...


    Looking at the Heretic Goddess Girl who held sway over the regional center, Qiu Tu rehearsed the thoughts he had about hiding Larilo tonight and then tapped the altar that controlled Larilo.


    Hearing the tapping and feeling the vibrations, Larilo stretched lazily, yawned, and looked like she had just woken up.


    However, as soon as she caught sight of Qiu Tu out of the corner of her eye, a bright light flashed before her.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with hope and asked, "How did it go? Did you meet with my sister?"


    During the three and a half hours of the return journey, Qiu Tu had already rehearsed this scene countless times.


    So when he heard Larilo''s question, Qiu Tu immediately wore an expression of awkwardness and embarrassment.


    Seeing this, the flame that had just ignited in Larilo was instantly extinguished.


    She said somewhat disinterestedly, "Was there some issue on the road, or did you change your mind and decide not to help me?"


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu''s face still showed embarrassment.


    He shook his head and then said, "Your Highness, it''s neither."


    Larilo, upon hearing this, couldn''t help but ask, "Then what''s the reason?"


    Qiu Tu coughed and then began his second plan for the evening...


    He looked at Larilo and said with awkwardness, "It''s because... it''s because Her Highness Zhao Ji has ill intentions towards me."


    "She... has taken a liking to me."


    Larilo: ??


    --------

 Chapter 477 - 311 Larilo: Brother-in-law, I wish you happiness~

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s shameless words, Larilo''s CPU almost burned out.


    Zhao Ji likes... fell for Qiu Tu?


    Her own sister, who had no sense of fun, no emotions, and barely any expressions, could like someone?


    And it was Qiu Tu, of all people, someone so annoying?


    Was the world too crazy, or was she just not awake yet?


    Thinking this, Larilo couldn''t help but laugh.


    She felt that, compared to those two possibilities, the likelihood that Qiu Tu was lying to her was even greater.


    After all, for an old sly fox like Qiu Tu, lying was as easy as drinking water. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Larilo "hehe..." laughed out loud.


    Then, with her crimson eyes full of mirth, she looked at Qiu Tu and gently clapped her hands, encouragingly, like she was amusing a child and said, "Is that so?"


    "Oh my God, brother-in-law~ then you must treat my sister well!


    Truth be told, Larilo understood sarcasm.


    Her words were dripping with irony.


    Qiu Tu didn''t really care about Larilo''s sarcasm, his thick skin made him indifferent.


    But... this did disrupt Qiu Tu''s plan somewhat.


    In Qiu Tu''s original plan, whether Larilo objected or questioned him, he could bring out evidence to explain smoothly.


    But now she went along with what Qiu Tu said, albeit sarcastically. If Qiu Tu forcibly tried to explain, it would seem particularly contrived.


    So, Qiu Tu''s brain worked at lightning speed, and he quickly switched to a different persuasion technique.


    He looked at Larilo with feigned sympathy and then said very sincerely, "Your Highness, don''t say that."


    "I know, you''re jealous."


    "But you have to believe me. Although Her Highness Zhao Ji is indeed pursuing me, my heart is as clear to you as the sun and moon. I won''t choose her, I only want you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, which sounded like something out of a fairy tale, Larilo laughed so hard while holding her belly that she went "giggle giggle giggle."


    Evil gods are naturally unrestrained and care little for appearances, so as she laughed uproariously, her little jojo was kicking away.


    Her delicate and exquisite little feet, even Qiu Tu, who had no interest in feet, was distracted for a moment.


    After her laughter subsided, Larilo looked at Qiu Tu with a smile still in her crimson eyes and said teasingly, "Brother-in-law, you have the luxury to choose now."


    "My sister, a Fifth-Order Great Evil God, taking a fancy to you is the fortune of many lifetimes for you. You''d better appreciate it."


    As she spoke, to appear more genuine, she even put on a serious face and said, "Furthermore, let me tell you, I won''t compete with my sister over you."


    "Since my sister has taken a liking to you, you should just be good to her."


    Though she said that, the amusement in Larilo''s eyes was almost spilling over. She clearly didn''t believe a word.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu responded a bit awkwardly, "But... you already ate my banana that morning."


    "I''m a very devoted person. If you''ve eaten my banana, you belong to me."


    "Wait! Hold on!" Qiu Tu''s statements were so information-dense that Larilo''s expression almost couldn''t keep up.


    First, she was shocked that Qiu Tu actually knew that it was she, controlling Fang Tangtang, who had eaten Qiu Tu''s banana that morning.


    Then, she was astonished by Qiu Tu''s shamelessness!


    Being devoted meant being faithful to one woman from start to finish, right? How did it become anyone he''s touched is his? What kind of devotion was that!


    With these thoughts, Larilo''s face was both embarrassed and annoyed.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, wanting to deny everything outright.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu, the master of words, took advantage of the gap in her defenses and launched another attack.


    Qiu Tu said, "Moreover... I don''t really like Her Highness Zhao Ji, truth be told."


    "Because, she seems a bit shy, a bit introverted."


    "I used the ritual you taught me, and I went to her what''s it... Divine Domain Space, and spoke with her for half an hour, yet I didn''t even see her face."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo internally "heh" laughed: That''s not shyness, that''s sheer disdain for seeing you!


    Her own sister hated meeting with lower beings the most.


    But then, a sudden realization struck Larilo.


    Wait... she had never mentioned this habit of her sister''s to Qiu Tu, so how would he know about it? And he spoke with such detail?


    And what about the Divine Domain Space?


    She hadn''t told him that specific term either! How did he know?


    Could it be... that he really met her sister? Was everything he said true?


    Meanwhile, without paying attention to Larilo''s astonishment, Qiu Tu continued, "Also, another thing I can''t accept is: It seems like Her Highness Zhao Ji doesn''t really like you, Your Highness?"


    Though Qiu Tu posed it as a question, he said it with absolute certainty.


    He continued, "I''ve mentioned your deep sisterly affection several times, but each time she just scoffed or ridiculed."


    "She even thought I was naive, willing to believe anything you said."


    At this point, Larilo was no longer laughing.


    Qiu Tu''s descriptions were too detailed. She could almost visualize her sister''s contemptuous look, like regarding an idiot.


    Qiu Tu seemed to be completely oblivious to Larilo''s changing mood.


    He appeared to be reminiscing and weighing his words carefully, then said, "Also... Your Highness. I''m not sure if it''s just a misconception. I always have this feeling that Her Highness Zhao Ji doesn''t want to save you, she might even want to harm you?"


    Larilo forced a "heh" laugh and then said, "How could that be? She''s my dear sister!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu showed a slightly convinced expression, "Oh? Is that so?"


    "Then maybe I misunderstood...."

 Chapter 478 - 311 Larilo: Brother-in-law, I wish you happiness~_2

    He spoke as if he was just casually complaining, and then said, "I asked her to save you. But she said if you can''t even overcome this crisis on your own, then you don''t deserve to be a deity."


    "Even if you become a deity again, you''d still just be prey for other deities."


    Larilo''s gaze was profound.


    ''It''s her... it''s her tone.''


    Qiu Tu, "She also told me that you''re now just a wisp of soul and consciousness, with little value left. Whether it''s your abilities, strength, or status, all have dissipated like smoke. You''re just like trash."


    Larilo''s crimson gaze narrowed slightly.


    ''It''s her...''


    Qiu Tu continued, "Lastly, I''m not sure if I misunderstood, but she voluntarily told me the method for you to regain your strength... or rather, the way for all beings to improve their strength."


    "She said that every region of the Boundless Heart Sea has a Central Hub. And that Central Hub could take various forms, some are terrains, some are non-living objects, some are plants, some are animals, or even people."


    "As long as you regain control of that Central Hub, you can restore your strength, and ordinary beings can also raise their status and strength..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s pupils suddenly contracted, and then she looked up at Qiu Tu with narrowed, crimson eyes, her voice sounding as if it were squeezed out through clenched teeth, fiercely asking, "Did she really tell you all this?" sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu hadn''t lied about any of the things he said. He had just cleverly switched the order of the information.


    So, with his eyes conveying innocence, he nodded without any mental burden and raised his hand to swear, "I assure you that all this information was told to me by Her Highness Zhao Ji."


    "If she didn''t tell me, then may the thunder strike me down, may I die from overeating at a feast, crash in a luxury car, sleep with ten women in one day and have my essence sapped away unto death!"


    What was originally a very serious matter, with Qiu Tu''s actions, the atmosphere was somewhat diffused. Larilo rolled her beautiful eyes at Qiu Tu, "You sure don''t lose out. Even before dying, you want to enjoy yourself first."


    After speaking, she gave Qiu Tu another bewitching look as a reminder, "You should be clear that in an era where oaths manifest in the Spirit World, vows carry power."


    Qiu Tu was without guilt. He patted his chest and assured, "Don''t worry, I''m telling the truth, so I''m not afraid to swear."


    Seeing Qiu Tu speak so confidently, Larilo seemed to really believe him a bit, her brows tightly furrowed.


    Honestly, the things Qiu Tu had told her did fit with Larilo''s impression of Zhao Ji. However... none of that information was conclusive evidence, after all, if one really wanted to, they could explain¡ªthat Sanctuary could very likely have information on the Central Hub of the Boundless Heart Sea and Zhao Ji''s personality.


    Qiu Tu might have combined those two parts, then fabricated a conversation, and used this information to gain her trust, deceiving her...


    Meanwhile, just as Larilo was having these doubts, suddenly... Qiu Tu spoke again.


    "Oh... right, Your Highness."


    "After talking about the Central Hub, Her Highness Zhao Ji told me another story."


    "A story?" Larila frowned and looked up.


    Qiu Tu made an affirmative sound and said, "Yes, Her Highness Zhao Ji told me a story about her taking you on a hunt for a Wood Dragon before you had control over the Xinjie Territory."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo''s crimson pupils suddenly contracted!


    Seeing Larilo''s reaction, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered with a hint of amusement...


    Success...


    Indeed, his previous thoughts weren''t wrong. His image in Larilo''s mind was too poor, if he didn''t release the heavy bombs in a gradual manner, even if he was telling the truth, Larilo wouldn''t believe him.


    Only by a step-by-step guide of Larilo''s emotions, bit by bit releasing the heavy bombs, could he make Larilo completely believe the "facts" he fabricated.


    Sure enough, after the heaviest bomb, "Wood Dragon," was dropped, Larilo seemed relieved as if a burden had been lifted: her suspended heart finally died.


    The matter of the Wood Dragon was something only she and Zhao Ji knew about. She had never mentioned it to Qiu Tu, so the only way Qiu Tu could know about it would have had to be through Zhao Ji...


    ''She actually did this to me!''


    ''Back then, it was clearly she who wronged me! And now, she even wants to harm me!''


    Thinking this, Larilo''s lips lightly bit down, her crimson eyes filled with humiliation and rage!


    However, after seething with anger, Larilo felt something was slightly off.


    She knew her sister better than anyone else.


    She was like a clam. You couldn''t get her to say anything even with a stick!


    Qiu Tu had only just met her for the first time. Would her sister really talk so much with Qiu Tu? And about such a secretive topic?


    Larilo felt something was fishy.


    After a moment, she suddenly seemed to realize something and abruptly asked, "Qiu Tu, when you met my sister, how did you introduce yourself?"


    Qiu Tu looked innocent as he said, "How else could I introduce myself? It was, of course, the whole truth."


    Larilo frowned slightly and lowered her head, feeling it still wasn''t right.


    And at that moment, Qiu Tu added, "After all, I am your man."


    Larilo''s head shot up!


    She said with an annoyed expression, "Since when are you my man!?"


    Qiu Tu lowered his head, glancing at his own stick.


    Larilo: ...


    Larilo fell silent.


    She took a deep breath, silently telling herself not to stoop to the level of this vile rogue Qiu Tu. And then... it all seemed to click.


    If Qiu Tu said he was one of her followers, her sister would be 100% uninterested in him.


    But... if this shameless Qiu Tu claimed to be her man, then her sister might actually react out of their years of conflict with some different thoughts...

 Chapter 479 - 311 Larilo: Brother-in-law, I wish you happiness~_3

    Thinking of this, Larilo felt everything was falling into place.


    At that moment, she felt the flames in her chest were raging fiercely!


    Her eyes seemed to spit fire!


    Her conflict with her older sister was profound, so deep that they had hardly any contact over the years. The few interactions they did have ended in fights, well... Larilo was always the one getting beaten up single-handedly.


    But to tell the truth, Larilo still had feelings about her older sister deep inside.


    She thought that if her sister were miserable, she would gleefully clap her hands. But if her sister were in mortal danger, she would still rush to save her at the first opportunity!


    After all, they were the closest people to each other in this world! The "blood bond" between them was indissoluble...


    She had thought Zhao Ji shared the same thoughts as her.


    That was also why, after being trapped by Yan Chen, when she wanted to call for help, Zhao Ji was the first person she thought of.


    But now... it seemed all her affection had been one-sided.


    And when she thought of how Zhao Ji had never intervened since her mishap, had always been out of touch£¨Note 1£©, Larilo was even more heartbroken.


    Is there anything worse in the world than being abandoned by family?


    Yes... it''s being utterly destitute, living in uncertainty, and then being abandoned by family.


    Thinking this, Larilo took several deep breaths before she felt a bit better.


    Just then, suddenly, the sound of slippers scuffing along came from outside the study door.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu hurriedly picked Larilo up from the table and placed her on his lap.


    As he just put her down, Tan Huimin appeared at the study door.


    She had just finished bathing, her body was enveloped in steam which made her skin look extra white and tempting.


    She wasn''t dressed but wrapped in a white bath towel. The towel was tied in front of her chest, pushing her substantial bosom into a deep "I" shaped cleavage.


    Stopping outside the study door, Tan Huimin shyly glanced at Qiu Tu and said, "I''m done with bathing. Your turn, maybe?"


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, before Qiu Tu could respond, Larilo, trapped on the altar and staring at Qiu Tu... rolled her eyes in exasperation!


    She always knew Qiu Tu was a playboy, a scoundrel, but she didn''t expect him to be such a lowlife. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just a moment ago, he had been professing his loyalty, declaring he would never leave her side. Yet, he had already arranged for a woman to spend the night with him.


    When he was chatting with her, he was doing so while another woman was taking a bath.


    ''What a bastard!'' she scoffed.


    As she berated him, a thought suddenly struck Larilo, ''Wait a minute. Is Qiu Tu getting some exercise tonight?''


    Then her... is there a chance she could possess and regain some strength?


    No, that''s wrong... she was still trapped in this little box. Qiu Tu would never give her that opportunity!


    Thinking of this, Larilo got even angrier.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was unaware of Larilo''s thoughts. He nodded at Tan Huimin and said, "Alright, you go back to the bedroom first, I''ll come to wash in a moment."


    Tan Huimin nodded then walked towards the bedroom.


    After Tan Huimin left, Qiu Tu spoke to Larilo, "Your Highness, since the spring night is short, I won''t be keeping you company to chat."


    "Just stay here by yourself."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu prepared to get up.


    But just then, Larilo called out to Qiu Tu!


    "Wait, Qiu Tu~~"


    "I''ve got something I want to talk to you about."


    As she spoke, Larilo uncharacteristically made a small, ingratiating facial expression toward Qiu Tu~~


    --------


    Chapter with over 10,000 words! Vote for Monthly Ticket!


    Note 1: Chapter 280 specifically mentioned that Zhao Ji appeared after Larilo fell asleep, which Larilo didn''t know about.

 Chapter 480 - 312: Early Morning with Tan Huimin (10,000 Words to Plead for Monthly Ticket!)

    Larilo''s reactions were actually all predicted by Qiu Tu.


    So when he heard Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu instantly became wary and looked at her, then asked, "Your Highness, what do you want to do?"


    "You''re not thinking of having soy milk after finishing the fried dough sticks, are you?"


    Larilo: !!


    Although she couldn''t figure out how Qiu Tu knew that she was the one who woke him up that morning, she came to realize:


    Qiu Tu was truly a lecherous guy. He''d take advantage if he could, and if not, he''d take advantage verbally.


    Not to mention...


    This was exactly the kind of follower she''d envisioned!


    As the Evil God of the pathway of "Life Reproduction," Larilo wished all her followers were reincarnations of Teddy, doing it day and night, with the world.


    That would also provide her with more power.


    Unfortunately, despite his love for taking advantage of women, Qiu Tu was not one to be taken advantage of.


    Trying to absorb even a little power from him was like dealing with a miser guarding against thieves.


    However, Larilo was currently reliant on another, her very life in the hands of Qiu Tu. She had no room to bargain.


    Therefore, while she was inwardly cursing Qiu Tu relentlessly, she still managed to squeeze out a smile and said, "Tonight, when you go to bed with... that woman, could you let me observe?"


    Larilo said "observe," but in truth, she wanted to absorb some pathway power up close.


    Although it would be much less than what she could absorb through possession, for her current state, any bit of regained power was valuable.


    Otherwise... not to mention returning to her Fourth-Order Evil God standing, she was at risk of having her soul scattered!


    It was because of the urgency of the situation and Qiu Tu''s ''iron rooster'' nature that Larilo prepared herself to be humiliated by Qiu Tu once again, or to sign some unfair treaties.


    But just as she was thinking this, something unexpected happened.


    Hearing her request, Qiu Tu nonchalantly waved his hand, "No problem."


    "Your Highness. What are you doing!"


    "Don''t worry, tonight I will let you broaden your horizons! You''ll see how I sleep with a beauty like her!


    "It''s definitely different from those young girls like Fang Tangtang!"


    Upon hearing this, Larilo was first stunned, then her eyes lit up slightly.


    Qiu Tu actually agreed? And without any conditions!?


    My God! Could it be that Qiu Tu really liked her...? Had she misunderstood him before? Could it be that he was truly loyal to her...?


    No way!


    Fifteen minutes later, Larilo watched Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin lying on opposite sides, sleeping sweetly, and almost exploded with anger!


    She shouldn''t have trusted Qiu Tu!


    When Qiu Tu said "sleep," he really meant "sleep."


    Saying he''d let her broaden her horizons... turned out to be a demonstration of his ability to fall asleep instantly with Tan Huimin!


    This was utterly outrageous!


    She felt it was unfair how Sanctuary labeled them high-order humanoid Cataclysmic Creatures as Evil Gods! Compared with Qiu Tu, they were much kinder!


    Next to them, Qiu Tu was more like an Evil God, like a devil!


    The ways he played with people''s hearts were simply too many, and too despicable!


    So there she was, cursing away at the altar for a long time; seeing Qiu Tu completely ignore her, still deep in slumber, Larilo finally stopped her tirade, huffing with anger.


    In the darkness, Larilo''s crimson eyes fixed intently on Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin.


    She decided that if she ever recovered her rank and strength as a Fourth-Order Evil God, she would definitely capture Qiu Tu for breeding purposes!


    She would make Qiu Tu perform non-stop in front of her 24 hours a day, without a moment''s break!


    ...


    The night was clear. The azure moonlight scattered like fine sand, casting a blue veil over the peaceful land...


    Xinjie City in the darkness was like a massive black hole, devouring everything around it.


    Amidst the tranquil night, a whale''s tail as tall as a building flashed across the sky...


    Then, another silver moon appeared out of thin air next to Blue Moon, but it also vanished without a trace soon after.


    Zhao Ji''s presence was enough to intimidate more than 90% of ordinary Evil Gods.


    But there were always those who were bold or reckless enough to try their luck...


    And they were destined to add a series of new instabilities to the chaos of Xinjie City....


    [Threat in the Darkness (Completed)] sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Commitment to the Evil God (Completed)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (Completed)]


    [Zhao Ji''s Anger (Completed)]


    [Fruits of Victory - Regional Controller (35 days)]


    .....


    A night without words.


    The next day, when Larilo woke up from her slumber, she felt something was amiss...


    Because she felt her consciousness and soul seemed to have grown stronger.


    The growth wasn''t that noticeable, but... who could blame her for being on the brink of fading away?


    So, she detected every slight change.


    At the same time, along with the growth of consciousness and soul, sounds of objects colliding and a woman''s humming echoed in Larilo''s ears.


    In that moment, Larilo was first taken aback, then as if she realized something, she abruptly looked towards Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin next to her!


    Indeed, at that time on the bed, Qiu Tu had transformed into "Little Qian," Tan Huimin into "Little Bei," and then they kept turning into "Little Guai"...


    The scene was so shocking that even Larilo, who had seen a lot, was stunned.


    She watched the two for a while, then let out a piercing scream!


    "Wait for me! Don''t be so hasty! I''m not ready yet!"

 Chapter 481 - 312: Early Morning with Tan Huimin (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Having shouted, Larilo then belatedly began to actively transform the power of the "Reproduction" pathway.


    And Qiu Tu, as if he had heard Larilo''s call, silently supported her from behind Tan Huimin!


    Cheering her on!


    Striving to make Tan Huimin even more beautiful in the "days" to come!


    And so, an hour and a half later, it was all over.


    Qiu Tu lit a cigarette, smoked it while using "Order Space" to block out the sound, then started chatting with Larilo. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How is it, Your Highness?"


    "Didn''t I keep my promise? Have I not opened your eyes?"


    Hearing this, Larilo, who had just absorbed the "Reproduction" energy and grown stronger, could not help but beam with joy.


    She was now finding Qiu Tu much more pleasing to the eye.


    "Not bad, not bad. Keep it up," she said.


    Upon hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu just smoked and smiled without explaining.


    "Emotional Fraud Manual," 101 Ways to Enhance Affection, no. 101: If you are already with a woman and you want her to love you more, the most important thing is "tension" and "surprise."


    Don''t give her what she wants when she wants it, but rather when she is disappointed.


    This way, compared to simply satisfying whatever she wants, it is much easier to deepen the affection between two people...


    [Larilo''s Loyalty +9, current Loyalty 15.]


    Larilo could be considered the "subordinate" with the lowest initial Loyalty that Qiu Tu had ever met, starting at absolute zero.


    Then, the night before last, the Loyalty Game was won, increasing Larilo''s Loyalty by 3 points. Today, this emotional tension added 9 more points of Loyalty.


    These two increases in Loyalty pushed Larilo''s Loyalty up to 12.


    The remaining 3 points of Loyalty were the reward from last night''s victory in the Loyalty Game.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also glanced at the settlement screen for the Loyalty Game.


    Before going to bed last night, Qiu Tu still sent Shen Lingshuang and Xiao Bai to make their move.


    The still weakened Larilo was obviously still no match for them and was easily subdued.


    The reward was a little less than the day before last: no Cataclysmic Material, just 3 points of Loyalty and 1 small Memory Fragment.


    After waking up, Qiu Tu had been waging battle with Tan Huimin, so he hadn''t had time to look.


    Now that it was Sage Time, it was time to take a look.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hugged the exhausted Tan Huimin, who had fallen asleep, glanced again at Larilo, who was digesting the Cataclysmic Power, and then stealthily tapped on the small Memory Fragment with his mind.


    The next second, Qiu Tu''s vision blurred as he began entering into Larilo''s memories.


    When he regained consciousness, Qiu Tu found himself standing in the midst of a dense Primitive Forest.


    Towering trees stood around him, their branches and leaves lush, blocking most of the sky and leaving only dappled sunlight scattered across the forest floor.


    The air was filled with the moist scent of soil and the unique fragrance of trees, and it seemed as if he could hear the distant sound of a babbling stream, crisp and pleasant.


    Qiu Tu took a step forward, as if he were surveying his own territory.


    And in fact... that was exactly the case.


    Because in the senses of "Qiu Tu," he felt a strange connection to the primitive forest and the land before him.


    It felt as if... "he" was connected by blood to the land, that as long as he stood on this land, amidst this Primitive Forest, he was omnipotent...


    ''Is this what it feels like... to be a Regional Controller?'' he wondered.


    Since the Memory Fragment perfectly reproduces all the sensations of the person at that time, Qiu Tu was easily able to deduce the timing of this memory¡ªit was after killing the Wood Dragon.


    And moreover... Larilo had just become the Master of the region.


    Because in the memory, Larilo was feeling joyful about her drastically increased power.


    Having identified the time reference of this memory, he didn''t wait for Qiu Tu to continue his analysis.


    The next second, he felt darkness envelop him, and the world spun.


    When he came to, he found himself back in the bed of the rest room on the 12th floor.


    ''That was too fast...''


    ''Indeed, a small Memory Fragment is just too short.''


    Feeling this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but close his eyes and replay the brief memory segment he had just experienced.


    The segment was extremely short and lacked any substantial information.


    It was just about ten seconds of Larilo walking in the Primitive Forest.


    But... Qiu Tu felt as if he had missed some important piece of information.


    As he touched the softness of Tan Huimin''s big cat while he thought hard, he finally had a realization!


    ''It''s the sensation! It''s the sensing of the regional center!''


    Qiu Tu recalled the scene from Larilo''s memories.


    He not only had a connection with the Primitive Forest and the great earth, but he also seemed to sense a "coordinate" in the distance!


    That sensation was almost exactly like that with the Primitive Forest, as if they shared the same origin!


    Although because the time was too short, Qiu Tu couldn''t identify it carefully, but... his sixth sense was telling him: that place could very well be the Central Hub of the entire Boundless Heart Sea Region!


    With this realization, Qiu Tu''s eyes were filled with astonishment!


    So... a Regional Controller was actually able to establish a connection with the regional center?


    Therefore...


    He just needed to "beat up" Larilo a few more times, explode a few more Memory Fragments!


    And those few Memory Fragments, if they were from the time after Larilo took control of the Xinjie Territory... could he not easily locate the position of the Central Hub?

 Chapter 482 - 312: Early Morning with Tan Huimin (10,000-word plea for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Thinking about this, Qiu Tu felt that today''s sun seemed much brighter! Even his work felt more energizing!


    And so, Qiu Tu got out of bed, headed to the bathroom, and took a shower.


    After showering, Qiu Tu pocketed Larilo and took the elevator to the 9th floor Political Department, his office.


    He planned to gather intelligence from the department to see who in Xinjie City was worth noting these days. And how far the Sanctuary had progressed with the "Boundless Heart Sea" development¡­


    But just as he was about to pick up the phone to call someone,


    suddenly, Larilo in his pocket spoke up.


    "Qiu Tu... Last night, Zhao Ji was plotting something against you. Did you really refuse her because of me?"


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu nonchalantly replied, "Of course. Am I that kind of casual person?"


    "At that time, I verbally refused her!"


    "Say... that''s a different price!"


    Qiu Tu paused, then bluffed according to the real situation, "Her Highness Zhao Ji was a bit angry at the time, but she still offered her price."


    "Control over a United Front special combat squad."


    At this, Qiu Tu said with an air of righteousness, "But am I someone that can be bought so easily?"


    "My heart is all with you, Your Highness."


    "So, I sternly refused her! And then I was kicked out of the Divine Domain Space..."


    In the pocket of Qiu Tu''s pants, Larilo quietly listened to the story, then... remained silent for a long time.


    Because... in the pocket of Qiu Tu''s pants, right in front of her, was an antique-looking coin from Zhao Ji...


    ''Adulterers!''


    Larilo was so angry that her chest heaved violently a few times!


    When she first saw the coin, she didn''t think much of it, assuming it was her own contact coin with Qiu Tu.


    But later on, bored in the pocket, she took a closer look at the coin.


    And to her shock, it wasn''t her contact coin, it was her sister Zhao Ji''s. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And moreover... this coin was obviously not new, but old.


    And piecing together what Qiu Tu had just told her, how could she not realize this was the way Zhao Ji gave Qiu Tu to contact the "United Front special combat squad!"


    ''Sister really knows how to give,'' she thought.


    Although she had gradually begun to believe the story Qiu Tu told last night.


    But now that the contact coin had shown itself, Larilo felt everything was confirmed.


    Her usually proud, cold sister was really going out of her way to steal her... believer and block her path to revival!


    However, unfortunately...


    Her sister clearly didn''t understand Qiu Tu''s character.


    That guy would never forego a forest for a single tree.


    So, her sister''s efforts were destined to be in vain.


    Thinking this way, Larilo somehow felt her mood improve a little.


    But now that her sister''s method was a dead end, Larilo had to think of another way to restore her status and power.


    Only... with even her own sister not on her side, who else could help her?


    With that thought, Larilo couldn''t help but look up at Qiu Tu.


    ''Could it really be... that I have to rely on this man?''


    ...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu had no idea that the plot he set up last night was slowly taking effect.


    After answering Larilo''s questions, he picked up the landline, ready to call Section Chief Wang from the Intelligence Section to report on the latest intelligence from yesterday.


    But just as his hand touched the receiver, before he could lift it, the landline began to ring "ring ring ring."


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu picked up the phone and answered with a deep "hello."


    Instantly, the ambitious, coquettish voice of his female subordinate came through, "Hello? Minister~~ do you have time right now?"


    "I have some important intelligence that I want to report in detail at your office."


    "Don''t get any ideas~ it''s really serious intelligence."


    ------

 Chapter 483 - 313: My Female Subordinate is Trying to Seduce Me (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Guan Xiao hadn''t added that last sentence, Qiu Tu wouldn''t have given it a second thought.


    But with that addition, his mind instantly took a suggestive turn.


    A "rigid" report?


    And it needs to go deeper?


    This...


    He was a genuine person after all.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu turned around and placed Larilo into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," then spoke to Guan Xiao on the phone, "Come on. I just happen to have some time."


    Larilo was currently in a state of consciousness and soul. Apart from Catastrophers of the Third Order or higher, or those who had taken a special potion, no one else could see or hear her.


    This was also the reason Qiu Tu dared to place Larilo beside his bed last night.


    But... just because others couldn''t see her or hear her speak, didn''t mean she couldn''t hear or see them.


    Considering Guan Xiao''s visit might involve some confidential information, it was better to be cautious.


    After hanging up the phone and placing the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" containing Larilo inside the safe of the resting room, Qiu Tu returned to his office.


    Soon enough, Guan Xiao arrived.


    "Knock, knock, knock..."


    "Please, come in." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Guan Xiao entered the door gracefully and boldly.


    She had obviously made an effort to dress meticulously today; despite wearing the black uniform of the Political Department, her makeup was exquisitely done. This made her, already a beauty with striking features, look even more dazzling and captivating!


    Qiu Tu''s gaze wandered over her, his face revealing a trace of appreciation.


    This was a smart person with talent, ambition, and the know-how to utilize her strengths.


    As Qiu Tu was reflecting on this, Guan Xiao saluted him respectfully, "Greetings, Director!"


    Qiu Tu, leaning back in his chair, gestured to the seat opposite him, then said, "Please sit, Section Chief Guan."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao nodded with a smile and sat down.


    After sitting down, she began to gather information out of habit, or perhaps genuine curiosity, and asked, "Chief, where is Secretary Tan?"


    "I didn''t see her today."


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment.


    Tan Huimin had been turned into a puff pastry and was still soundly asleep.


    "Secretary Tan... She overate at breakfast, felt a bit unwell, and took the day off," he replied.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao smoothed a strand of hair by her cheek with a smile. Her hair, silky smooth, was tied back in a high ponytail, giving her a sharp and efficient appearance.


    "I see... Did she drink too much milk?" she asked, her mouth curving into a slightly cunning and alluring smile.


    Qiu Tu looked at her intently.


    Her features, enhanced by makeup, were like a meticulously carved work of art, and with today''s mature makeup and fiery red lips, her allure was even more potent, of course... as was her seductiveness.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on her red lips for a moment before he chuckled and said, "It''s cream. Milk isn''t that thick."


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao laughed a light "giggle," her chest trembling with mirth, "With your frequency, Chief, can you really produce cream?"


    "I don''t believe it, I want to squeeze it out myself."


    Qiu Tu seriously said, "You''re not a chef, what cream are you going to squeeze? At most, I''ll let you have a taste."


    Guan Xiao, upon hearing this, licked her lips and looked at Qiu Tu with shimmering eyes.


    "Drip... drip... drip..."


    Just then, footsteps in the corridor broke the charged atmosphere in the office.


    Guan Xiao shuddered, her eyes once again becoming clear and focused.


    In contrast, Qiu Tu was much more composed.


    After all, Sage Time is truly empowering!


    He picked up the teacup, took a sip of water, and then spoke with an indifferent expression, "Now then, what''s the serious matter you have to report today?"


    Guan Xiao was indeed highly capable in her work.


    So when Qiu Tu switched to talking business, her expression immediately turned earnest.


    She said gravely, "Chief."


    "I need to report a situation to you."


    "My spy embedded within the United Front sent an important message last night."


    "They said, the United Front has dispatched a Special Warfare Squad to Xinjie City due to the incident of Larilo''s descent. It includes one Third-Order Cataclysmic, four Second-Order Catastrophers, and fifteen First-Order Catastrophers."


    "They possess spatial-type Cataclysmic treasures and carry heavy firepower, making them extremely dangerous."


    "What''s more significant is... this Special Warfare Squad seems to be connected to the Great Evil God Zhaohui."


    "Last night, he eavesdropped on the team leader''s communication. It seems the Great Evil God Zhaohui has sent a Divine Envoy to Xinjie City."


    "Now the entire Special Warfare Squad is operating under the command and arrangements of that Divine Envoy."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Damn the United Front.


    No wonder they were getting crushed by the Sanctuary; their intelligence network was as leaky as a sieve.


    He had just made contact with that colonel last night, and the information had already been leaked!


    Luckily, he had been clever, using a disguise on himself. Otherwise, he probably would have been called in for a chat by the state officials today!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s mind whirred as he tried to put himself in the shoes of a normal Head of the Political Department, then with a gravity in his gaze, he said with utmost seriousness, "This is indeed very important intelligence."


    "The United Front''s deployment of so many experts to Xinjie City must be for a significant purpose."


    "The biggest ongoing event in Xinjie City is the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Project.'' If I''m not mistaken, their arrival must be related to it."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao also nodded in agreement earnestly.


    She stated with conviction, "Director, you and I think alike."


    "I also believe they are here for the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Project.''"


    Qiu Tu nodded and casually took out a cigarette. As he bent his head to light it, he said, "Did your embedded spy figure out their current location?"

 Chapter 486 - 314: Qin Shuman and the

    So, Qiu Tu clearly saw her face.


    She was as pure as an angel, a girl with a delicate face, skin white as snow, glowing faintly with a rosy blush, as if it could squeeze out water.


    Yet, even though she was such a beautiful girl, she caused Qiu Tu''s pupils to abruptly constrict!


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    Surprise filled Qiu Tu''s heart.


    ''Isn''t she supposed to be by my side?''


    ''How could she be in Yan Chen''s office?''


    However, almost immediately, Qiu Tu reacted in the next second: No, it wasn''t Larilo, it was... Yan Chen''s real daughter, Yan Yan!


    Larilo had previously cloned Yan Yan''s body to steal Yan Chen''s power. Then she transferred her consciousness into it, lurking by Yan Chen''s side.


    So, when Qiu Tu first came into contact with Larilo, she always appeared as Yan Yan, which made Qiu Tu equate the two.


    Now, if one looks... Has Larilo''s danger been eliminated? So, Yan Chen called her own daughter to Xinjie City?


    As this thought crossed his mind, Qiu Tu felt something was amiss.


    Because... although Larilo''s danger is now gone, the crisis in Xinjie City is far from over.


    Moreover, compared to when Larilo was vying for control of Xinjie City, the current Xinjie City is more like a powder keg, ready to ignite at the slightest touch, and hence much more dangerous!


    At this time, Yan Chen bringing Yan Yan to Xinjie City seemed somewhat odd...


    Although Qiu Tu thought a lot, in reality, only a few seconds had passed.


    At this moment, he had just brushed past Yan Yan.


    Compared to Larilo''s impersonation, the real Yan Yan was obviously livelier and bolder.


    Perhaps she was attracted by Qiu Tu''s handsome appearance.


    Just as she passed by Qiu Tu, she suddenly turned her head and said to him, "Stop!"


    There weren''t many people in the office: Yan Chen, Zhao Ruiquan, and Qiu Tu.


    So when she spoke, all three of them looked up and turned to look at her.


    As Qiu Tu turned around, Yan Yan finally saw his face clearly.


    At that moment, her eyes lit up slightly, and she excitedly pointed at Qiu Tu and said to Yan Chen, "Daddy! I want him!"


    "I want him to be my tour guide, accompany me to play in Xinjie City!"


    Qiu Tu: ??


    Yan Chen, Zhao Ruiquan:...


    Perhaps because his real daughter had arrived, Yan Chen finally pulled open the curtains in his room.


    It made his wrinkled skin appear even drier, like an old man on the verge of death.


    Hearing his daughter''s words, he leaned on the Bureau Chief''s throne, looking deeply at his daughter, his eyes filled with indescribable complexity.


    Because he didn''t speak, the office quieted down for a moment.


    It was Zhao Ruiquan who noticed the awkward atmosphere and hurriedly forced a smile at Qiu Tu, saying, "I''m sorry, Director. Miss Yan doesn''t recognize you."


    Now a Head of the Political Department at the Investigation Bureau, one of the nine senior executives, Qiu Tu had the privilege of not wearing a uniform.


    Moreover, he went to Eastern City to meet with Zhao Ji last night, wearing the uniform wasn''t convenient.


    Therefore, he didn''t wear his uniform today, instead dressing in ordinary casual clothes.


    This could indeed lead to misunderstandings by those unfamiliar with the current situation at the Investigation Bureau.


    So, Qiu Tu didn''t mind.


    Instead, he gave Yan Yan a slight smile and then turned to continue towards Yan Chen.


    Yan Yan clearly wanted to say something else. But Zhao Ruiquan had quickly stepped in front of her, quietly explaining Qiu Tu''s identity while leading her away.


    Not until they got to the office door had Zhao Ruiquan finally clarified Qiu Tu''s identity.


    By that time, Yan Yan''s face was already full of surprise.


    Looking shocked, she said, "Director Zhao... are you saying that the young man who went in just now is the Head of the Political Department at the Investigation Bureau? One of the nine high-ranking executives?"


    "Second in power only to my dad and Uncle Lai? Even my dad is wary of him?"


    Hearing Yan Yan''s words, Zhao Ruiquan quickly nodded his head, then said, "So, you realize how presumptuous your words were just now, right?"


    Yan Yan, hearing this, turned back and looked at Qiu Tu''s retreating figure with sparkling eyes, then whispered softly, "Yes... a bit presumptuous."


    "I shouldn''t have invited him like that."


    Zhao Ruiquan: ??


    To tell the truth, Zhao Ruiquan felt something odd about what Yan Yan said. But whether it was Yan Chen, Yan Yan, or Qiu Tu, they were all big shots he couldn''t afford to offend.


    So he didn''t dare to respond, pretending as if he heard nothing....


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    In the office.


    After Yan Yan and Zhao Ruiquan left, the office was left with only Qiu Tu and Yan Chen.


    Qiu Tu took the initiative to salute Yan Chen and then greeted, "Bureau Chief!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen leaned in his chair, looking expressionlessly at the young man in front of him, the one he once had high hopes for.


    After a moment, he nodded slightly and said "Hmm" from his nose.


    Then he took the initiative to speak, "I hear you have something to report to me?"


    Qiu Tu nodded and handed over the documents he was holding to Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen took the documents and read through them rapidly, a flicker of surprise passed briefly in his cloudy eyes.


    Clearly, the United Front''s large-scale operation had caught even him off guard.


    His gaze turned serious as he looked at Qiu Tu and asked, "Is this intelligence reliable?"


    Qiu Tu nodded earnestly, replying, "Yes, Bureau Chief, it''s very reliable."


    "Because in addition to the intelligence from the Espionage Division, other channels have also reported similar information."

 Chapter 487 - 314: Qin Shuman and the

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen gave him a deep look. Then, with the report in hand, his eyelids drooped as he fell into deep thought.


    With Yan Chen not speaking, the office fell quiet for a time.


    Qiu Tu took the opportunity to recall the preliminary plan he had just concocted.


    Having just learned about the state of the United Front Special Warfare Squad from Guan Xiao, Qiu Tu realized that holding command authority over the United Front Special Task Force was not just an ace up his sleeve, but also a ticking time bomb ready to explode at any moment.


    The longer he held this card, the deeper he would be involved, and the more dangerous it would become!


    Moreover, since others were unaware that he had this card, it held no deterrent power whatsoever.


    So, after much thought, Qiu Tu decided: since the spy department had already unearthed this special squad, he might as well take advantage of the situation and play his card outright.


    And his method of activation was quite simple: a double bind.


    Now that he had command of the United Front Special Warfare Squad in his grasp, he naturally held an unbeatable position.


    He had considered that, once he found Yan Chen, he would hand over this thorny issue to Yan Chen.


    Yan Chen would have two choices:


    1, take the command authority for this mission from Qiu Tu''s hands, then mobilize his own people to encircle and suppress the special squad.


    In that case, the bulk of the credit would undoubtedly go to Yan Chen''s direct subordinates. Qiu Tu could only hope for some minor benefits.


    2, Yan Chen senses the dangerous nature of this mission and entrusts Qiu Tu with full responsibility, allowing Qiu Tu to exhaust his own confidants and power.


    But regardless of which of these two options Yan Chen chose, because Qiu Tu held the command of the United Front Special Warfare Squad, he could easily handle either situation.


    For the former... he could command the special squad to fight back with full force. Eliminate the high-level members of Yan Chen''s faction, or even... Yan Chen himself. A borrowed knife to kill.


    For the latter... he could fool the United Front squad into surrendering.


    In this way, he would both earn credit and not have to pay much of a price. It was like picking up a bargain.


    So, Yan Chen might make a small profit, but Qiu Tu was certain not to lose! S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also patiently waited for Yan Chen to make his decision.


    Yet, after a long minute of contemplation, Yan Chen finally began to speak.


    He did not discuss this matter, but slowly shifted to another topic.


    He said, "Qiu Tu... you should know about the establishment of Dongye State, right?"


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s words, Qiu Tu snapped back to reality. He glanced at Yan Chen''s wrinkled face, then nodded his head, saying, "This is the biggest event recently among the 16 cities near us, so of course I know."


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu paused, then added in an even tone, "I haven''t congratulated the Bureau Chief on becoming a member of the Dongye State Council yet."


    At these words, Yan Chen "hehe" laughed twice, his murky eyes showing neither joy nor sorrow as they regarded Qiu Tu.


    As if trying to discern whether Qiu Tu was genuinely congratulating him or mocking him.


    But Qiu Tu''s acting skills had long since reached perfection, so after looking for a while, he could not find any flaws.


    Therefore, Yan Chen did not dwell on whether he was a councillor or deputy speaker, but spoke again, "After the establishment of Dongye State, the four speakers will divide their forces and inspect different areas (except for Dai Yukang), then visit each city for inspection."


    "The purpose is to review the current state of each city, as well as to integrate the three major institutions of each city."


    Having said that, he looked towards Qiu Tu and continued, "And Deputy Chairman Liu Xiongyuan, his first stop on the inspection tour is the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    Yan Chen picked up the teacup on the table, sipping lightly before he finally commented, "I think this is a good opportunity."


    "According to the contents of your report, the United Front Special Warfare Squad has 1 Third-Order Catastropher, 4 Second-Order Catastrophers, and 15 First-Order Catastrophers."


    "Such strong forces are beyond the capabilities of our city''s Investigation Bureau to handle."


    "So I think... we can totally wait for Deputy Chairman Liu to arrive, then report this matter to him."


    "By that time, Deputy Chairman Liu will surely consider helping you handle it..."


    Seeing that Yan Chen did not follow the usual pattern, neither supporting nor refusing but instead tossing the problem to a third party: Director Liu...


    Qiu Tu furrowed his brows slightly for a moment.


    Yan Chen''s suggestion seemed light, but it was clearly filled with traps.


    Qiu Tu was now a part of Liu Xiongyuan''s faction, supporting each other.


    And Liu Xiongyuan had begun inspecting the cities right after the council''s establishment, obviously treating this inspection as very important.


    So... at such a time, if Qiu Tu passed the problem to Liu Xiongyuan,


    Liu Xiongyuan would immediately be caught in a dilemma: whether to stay or go...


    In the end, it could likely delay his inspection process or even affect his future power in Dongye State.


    Moreover, since it was Qiu Tu who put Liu Xiongyuan in this difficult situation, Liu Xiongyuan would surely harbor resentment towards Qiu Tu, causing a rift in their relationship.


    Further considering that both Liu Xiongyuan and Yan Chen had reached positions from which they could no longer rise,


    if Liu Xiongyuan solved this case:


    Even if he succeeded, there wouldn''t be much room for promotion, and the impact on Liu Xiongyuan would be minimal.


    But for Qiu Tu it was different: having such a significant achievement snatched away would mean a heavy loss.


    With a simple move, Yan Chen not only suppressed Qiu Tu but also set a trap for Liu Xiongyuan.


    ''Brilliant...''


    Qiu Tu felt Yan Chen was truly a master, a seemingly mundane new option not only allowed him to leap out of Qiu Tu''s trap but also buried Qiu Tu in one fell swoop.

 Chapter 488 - 314: Qin Shuman and the

    Although he hadn''t yet thought of a solution, Yan Chen was, after all, Qiu Tu''s superior and the head of the Investigation Bureau. Whatever he decided, Qiu Tu had no way to oppose it.


    ''Still, I need to think of another way....''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu slightly bowed and responded, "Received, Bureau Chief...."


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    Meanwhile.


    As Qiu Tu and Yan Chen were calculating against each other.


    In Xinjie City, within the military''s Security Department, the director''s office.


    Qin Shuman, dressed in a grass-green military uniform, sat behind her desk, looking up at the surroundings that were both familiar and somewhat strange. She was feeling a mix of excitement and annoyance.


    What excited her was... After a year''s time, she had finally achieved the position she had longed for! She was now officially in charge of Xinjie City''s Security Department!


    This had brought her one step closer to her goal, and she could finally go all out and vigorously pursue her political ambitions!


    But what annoyed her was... Even though she had become the director of the Security Department, she had just received a communication from Dai Yukang.


    Dai Yukang told her that, because Xinjie City was a focus for the Sanctuary''s development in the coming period,


    the Security Bureau had sent an inspector to Xinjie City to oversee the work of the Security Department.


    If there were any shortcomings in the Security Department''s performance, he had the authority to point them out and demand corrections, or even to take direct command of the Security Department''s operations.


    After hearing about this "inspector" from Dai Yukang, Qin Shuman''s mood soured completely.


    After all... nobody would like it if, after struggling for so many years to come out on top, a retired emperor suddenly appeared above them.


    Moreover... Dai Yukang''s words were too vague.


    He only mentioned that the person had the authority to oversee and command the work of the Security Department.


    But he didn''t specify how this supervision or command would take place.


    From start to finish, Dai Yukang only gave Qin Shuman an internal phone number.


    Telling her that calls from this number would be from that inspector....


    After hanging up, Qin Shuman stared blankly at the number 9527 on the communicator.


    She was guessing whether this "retired emperor" was male or female, what their status was, what rank they held?


    Having guessed for a long while without a clue, Qin Shuman had no choice but to put this "retired emperor" out of her mind for the time being.


    She felt torn between excitement and pressure, which made her particularly want to confide in someone, to have a good talk, um... and to vent.


    ''Otherwise... how about contacting Qiu Tu tonight?''


    Once this thought emerged, it lingered persistently in Qin Shuman''s mind.


    Moreover, she felt her rationale was quite proper: now she was the director of the Security Department, and Qiu Tu was the minister of the Political Department. They were the highest chiefs of their respective institutions'' intelligence systems, and there would definitely be many opportunities for cooperation in the future.


    So it was quite reasonable to have some early communication, to smooth the way for their collaboration, to probe a bit.


    And at that moment, while she was entertaining these wild thoughts, suddenly, her communicator started buzzing.


    Qin Shuman was startled, then hastily looked at the communicator.


    To her surprise, she found... the number 9527 was lighting up on the communicator.


    ''So soon?''


    She was somewhat shocked by the "retired emperor''s" quickness in reaching out to her.


    Qin Shuman sighed softly, realizing that her plan to meet up with Qiu Tu tonight was likely to go awry. After composing herself, she answered the call.


    The next second, a voice came through the receiver... a voice of a woman she hadn''t met before, "Director Rain Butterfly?"


    Hearing the woman''s voice, Qin Shuman, who had years of experience in intelligence work, immediately conducted a brief analysis of the voice''s owner.


    ''Probably a woman around 27 or 28 years old?''


    ''The tone is quite gentle; she should be fairly easy to get along with?''


    ------


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 Chapter 492 - 316: Late Night Games with Qin Shuman (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Qiu Tu let Bai Ru make this call for the sole purpose of arranging Qin Shuman''s invitation for tonight.


    So, when he heard what Qin Shuman said, he didn''t hesitate to accept, "No problem."


    "Just as well... I also have something I''d like to talk to you about."


    Qin Shuman, upon hearing this, wasn''t surprised. She glanced at the office clock and set the time, "So, how about 8 o''clock tonight at our usual spot?"


    Qiu Tu, "No problem."


    And just like that, a simple phone call had fixed the appointment for the evening.


    Like Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu was clearly looking forward to tonight''s meeting. Thus, he hung up the phone with a smile, put his cell phone aside, and prepared to chat a little more with Bai Ru before leaving.


    However... Upon looking up, he saw Bai Ru sneaking glances at him with a rather odd expression.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu coughed once and immediately dropped his smile.


    Bai Ru, realizing that Qiu Tu had caught her gaze, quickly turned her face slightly to avoid eye contact. Then, with a touch of embarrassment, she joked softly, "The relationship between Minister Qiu and Director Rain Butterfly is really complicated..."


    Qiu Tu responded, "Is our relationship any less complicated?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Bai Ru was taken aback. Her mind inadvertently drifted to the various disputes she had with Qiu Tu during this time. Feeling a bit melancholic, she let out a soft sigh.


    In fact... Her feelings for Qiu Tu were complicated.


    Previously, she had approached Qiu Tu solely because her husband was arrested, and she wanted to bribe Qiu Tu to let her husband off.


    No one expected that it would be like throwing herself into a tiger''s den... Qiu Tu was not tempted by money but by people and merits. This not only allowed him to take full advantage of her, but also led him to solve the entire case by tracing the clues she accidentally leaked.


    Afterward... one of her father and husband was sentenced to death, the other to life imprisonment.


    Truth be told, at that time, Bai Ru really wanted to die with Qiu Tu, to kill the "murderer who had killed her whole family."


    But... Bai Yongdong, despite his many faults, had raised Bai Ru well. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, Bai Ru knew that Qiu Tu had done nothing wrong; it was her father and husband who had erred.


    Moreover... Qiu Tu was an official from the Political Department, and it was his duty to root out harmful elements like her father and husband.


    So... she just couldn''t truly hate Qiu Tu from the bottom of her heart.


    All she could do was to stay away from Qiu Tu and never have anything to do with him again.


    But who knew, as she tried to distance herself, Qiu Tu never "let her go."


    Qiu Tu always used the pretense of "concern for wrongly arrested suspects" to send text messages and make phone calls to Bai Ru.


    When Bai Ru didn''t respond, he didn''t mind. He still asked after her whenever he had free time.


    Good upbringing made it difficult for Bai Ru to ignore Qiu Tu indefinitely. Additionally, aside from occasional inquiries and concern, Qiu Tu indeed didn''t harass or disturb her like he did during the investigation.


    So, gradually, she began responding to some of Qiu Tu''s text messages.


    Back and forth like this, the two of them gradually became familiar with one another.


    The turning point came when she faced difficulties from her superior, the deputy director of the Civil Affairs Bureau.


    By then, Qiu Tu had already become the deputy head of the Political Department.


    After learning about this from Bai Ru, Qiu Tu didn''t say much but directly made a call to Commissioner Jiang''s secretary, Tao Yaoyao.


    Tao Yaoyao didn''t do much, just stopped by the Civil Affairs Bureau on her way, specifically to see Bai Ru and convey Qiu Tu''s regards.


    The personal attention from the first commissioner''s secretary at City Hall and care from the deputy head of the Political Department were enough to change the awkward situation Bai Ru faced at the Civil Affairs Bureau... hence, her superior''s difficulties were smoothly resolved.


    As a [conservative at heart], Bai Ru''s timid nature made her naturally inclined to depend on the strong.


    So, seeing how easily Qiu Tu had resolved her problem, Bai Ru unwittingly grew closer to him, even if she wasn''t aware of it...


    After that, whenever Bai Ru encountered difficulties she couldn''t resolve, Qiu Tu would come to mind.


    Although she didn''t tell him about every issue, she did seek his help a couple of times.


    But those two issues were perfectly resolved by someone Qiu Tu had sent, which further improved their relationship until it was no longer as strained as before.


    Until now... she could even care for something as secretive as making a call to Qin Shuman for Qiu Tu.


    Thinking back, Bai Ru couldn''t help but feel that her relationship with Qiu Tu was indeed more complex than with Rain Butterfly.


    Upon reflection, Bai Ru gradually recovered her wits.


    She smoothed down her skirt, brought her shapely legs together, lifted them, and placed them on the couch, positioning herself elegantly on the sofa. Then she softly said to Qiu Tu, "Minister, you are right, our relationship does seem quite complex."


    "It''s like... I still don''t understand how you can be sure I won''t leak any secrets?"


    As she spoke, she gathered the stray hairs by her cheeks to reveal her beautiful neckline.


    Under the lights, her palm-sized fair face appeared delicate and tender...


    She had the gentleness and figure of a mature woman, but her skin was as white as jade and as tender as an 18-year-old girl''s, so soft it seemed water could be wrung from it.


    Qiu Tu''s admiring gaze fell on Bai Ru, and he smiled without saying anything.


    Then he took out from his pocket a piece resembling Cihuang Stone in pale yellow color, smooth and semi-transparent.


    "Lethe Stone: One of the precious Cataclysmic Materials. It has the effect of erasing short-term memory."

 Chapter 495 - 317: A Night with Qin Shuman

    As a worker on the secret front, even if they''ve just "done the deed," they must maintain enough vigilance and sharpness to intelligence.


    So, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, bare and leaning in Qiu Tu''s embrace, squinted and glanced at him, saying, "Minister Qiu~~ you''re very curious about the inspector''s affair?"


    She''d always harbored doubts about Qiu Tu. Thus, she continued to probe, "Could it be that you are really that inspector?"


    Qiu Tu laughed and tapped Qin Shuman''s nose, saying, "You... really have been doing intelligence work for too long. A few extra questions and you get suspicious."


    He added, "If I really were that inspector, do you think I wouldn''t know that continuing this topic would raise your suspicions?"


    At his words, Qin Shuman laughed cheerfully.


    She found that she quite enjoyed this bantering with Qiu Tu.


    Hence, she wrinkled her nose in a girlish manner and said with a bit of coquettishness, "That''s not necessarily true~~"


    "It''s possible you''re deliberately discussing this topic just to prove your innocence."


    And that was indeed what Qiu Tu was thinking. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But of course, he would never admit it. So he said, "Do you think I couldn''t guess that you would see through that?"


    Qin Shuman gently stretched her fair arms, wrapped them around Qiu Tu''s neck, and said with a sweet smile, "Then, is there a possibility you guessed I would see through it, just to prove your innocence once again?"


    Qiu Tu looked down, their gazes slowly meeting, and they both laughed involuntarily.


    Qiu Tu stroked Qin Shuman''s big cat and then said, "We who work on the secret front really live a tiring life."


    "Even our chats have to be filled with mutual probing."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman also acted coquettishly on cue. She said, "That''s exactly what I''m saying~~"


    "But... it''s all Dai Yukang''s fault."


    She complained, "I had already taken over his position, becoming the head of the Security Department."


    "Yet he said that Xinjie City has had too many issues lately, and it''s currently the focus of attention for the entirety of Dongye State, even the Sanctuary."


    "He feels I''m not up to handling such a complex situation, so he arranged an inspector to assist me on the side."


    "This inspector''s identity within the Dongye State Security Bureau allows for the deployment of bureau resources."


    "His primary responsibility is to oversee the ''Boundless Heart Sea Development Project,'' but if anything happens in Xinjie City, he also has the authority to remotely command me."


    At this point, Qin Shuman spoke with a tinge of anger, "Tell me! Isn''t this just adding a retired emperor above me?"


    "Who could stand that!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu laughed heartily and then described, "This is like you''ve endured for years as the daughter-in-law, wanting to finally exert some authority, only to realize... there''s suddenly a mother-in-law above you."


    At Qiu Tu''s odd analogy, Qin Shuman also laughed. She said, "If you don''t know how to describe, then don''t. What do you mean, ''there''s suddenly a mother-in-law''?"


    After finishing, Qin Shuman''s expression became more somber, and she said with a bit of depth, "But... what you said isn''t wrong, actually."


    "Now, there really is a mother-in-law above me."


    "I have to be careful and cautious about everything, afraid that any lapse could be used to replace me."


    At this, Qin Shuman glanced sideways at Qiu Tu and said, "Actually... I''d rather have that inspector be you."


    "After all... if it''s you, I wouldn''t have to be so cautious and careful about everything. No matter what happens, you''ve got my back."


    "I can just go ahead and act boldly and with confidence."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu just smiled.


    Actually... his decision to not reveal his identity to Qin Shuman indeed took Fang Ming''s considerations into account.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman had known each other for a long time and were quite familiar with each other, so he had an unparalleled understanding of her.


    Qin Shuman, despite working on the secret front and being cautious and serious in her work, actually has always been very bold at heart.


    This was evident from her preferred way of extracting information through "deception."


    Some of the collaborations Qiu Tu had sought with her were theoretically a bit irregular. If it were any other worker on the secret front, they probably wouldn''t agree for safety''s sake, but she agreed every time.


    Although Qiu Tu found it touching, he also knew that her character could lead to great achievements but also big disasters.


    This was the core reason Dai Yukang, after choosing her as his successor, felt somewhat uneasy and approached Qiu Tu as a double insurance.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu really dared not reveal his identity to Qin Shuman. If she ever found out that Qiu Tu was not there to supervise her but rather to cover for her, she might become even more aggressive.


    Besides this reason, there was another why Qiu Tu didn''t want to reveal his identity to Qin Shuman.


    That was... no matter how close two people are, once they''re entangled in work or become superior and subordinate, their relationship will definitely change.


    Friction at work and unequal statuses between superior and subordinate could taint their bond.


    So, for Qin Shuman''s sake and for the sake of their rare relationship, Qiu Tu kept his identity a secret.


    All of it was a considerate and meticulously thought-out plan.


    While Qiu Tu pondered this, Qin Shuman had also finished discussing the "inspector" matter.


    After the discussion, she took the initiative to bring up the business of the day.


    She snuggled up to Qiu Tu and then said, "By the way, you must also be aware of the situation with the Lianzhen Special Combat Team, right?"


    "How about we exchange some intelligence?"


    Qiu Tu knew that Qin Shuman didn''t have the Special Warfare Squad''s information, and she was deliberately playing tricks to steal intelligence from him. But since his plan was to get the Security Department involved, he went ahead and detailed the situation with the Lianzhen Special Combat Team.

 Chapter 496 - 317 A Night with Qin Shuman_2

    Qin Shuman initially pretended to be indifferent, as if she had already known this intelligence. However, when she heard that the special forces team consisted of one Third Order Cataclysmic, four Second Order Cataclysmics, and fifteen First Order Cataclysmics, she couldn''t fully suppress the fluctuation in her gaze anymore.


    Clearly, such a lineup was a very difficult issue for the Security Department, which currently had no high-ranking officers to lead it.


    So, after pondering for a long time, she took the initiative to speak up, "Qiu Tu... do you have any thoughts?"


    "The opponent this time is a bit over the top."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu, while stroking Qin Shuman''s smooth back, said, "They are a bit exaggerated. But... not impossible to deal with."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu looked at Qin Shuman and added, "Both of us have rapidly risen over the past six months, finally becoming the Head of the Political Department and the Director of the Security Department."


    "Actually, both those above and those below have some doubts about our abilities and strength."


    "I think this is our opportunity."


    "As long as we can annihilate the Lianzhen Special Combat Team in one fell swoop and achieve a major victory, then reward according to merits, I believe we''ll immediately be able to take control of the departments and establish our authority!"


    Having said this, Qiu Tu paused, then continued, "After all, when people go to work, isn''t it to earn a future for themselves?"


    "Who wouldn''t want to follow a leader who can win battles, provide food, and offer opportunities for promotion and wealth?"


    "Moreover, this victory is also crucial for you... "


    "Doesn''t Dai Yukang distrust you? Didn''t he assign an Inspector to you?"


    "Now, if you set aside that Inspector and win a great victory on your own! Prove your capability to Dai Yukang. Can he still distrust you?"


    "Perhaps, after giving it a thought, he might feel that the Inspector is far inferior to you, and simply withdraw him."


    Qiu Tu was still very skilled at brainwashing and provoking. So after hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, after hesitating for two seconds, immediately looked resolute.


    She said seriously, "Okay! Since that''s the case! Then let''s chew this tough bone together!"


    "Celebrate our promotion with a big victory."


    "By then, let Old Dai see if I am stronger than that Inspector!"


    "Let him dare to underestimate me again!"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile.


    Thus, over the next several hours, the two discussed carefully based on the available intelligence and the comparison of both sides'' strengths.


    The Lianzhen Special Combat Team had a large number of members and their strength was formidable. The main difficulties were the one Third Order Cataclysmic and the four Second Order Cataclysmics.


    Third Order Cataclysmics were not rare in the United Front, but in Xinjie City, they were definitely among the top-tier experts.


    The entire Xinjie City only had a handful of Third Order Cataclysmic masters. And with Dai Yukang and Ye Mingfeng having been promoted and left Xinjie, their numbers had dwindled even further.


    The remaining three Third Order Cataclysmics: Yan Chen, Tang Feifei, and the new military Bureau Chief, were all figures above the rank of Deputy Director.


    Not to mention whether they could be asked to help, if they really did take action, most of the merit would be gone. This was not in line with the interests of Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman


    So... the best way to keep all the credit between themselves was to handle the Third Order Cataclysmic and those four Second Order Cataclysmics on their own...


    After much thought, Qiu Tu felt... perhaps it was still best to use his identity as the "Emissary of the Evil God."


    Those who became Third Order Cataclysmics couldn''t possibly be fools. So if Qiu Tu directly commanded them to go to their deaths, they would definitely disobey.


    After all... they were real people and intrinsically didn''t have much trust in Qiu Tu to begin with.


    But... if Qiu Tu used his identity as the Emissary of the Evil God to assign them tasks, setting traps in advance for them to fall into, things would be different...


    And... Qiu Tu could also sneak in some personal gains in this task, trying to earn an extra profit like Qin Shuman by killing two birds with one stone...


    Thus, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman talked until 1 o''clock in the morning, finalizing all their plans before embarking on a second round of intense action.


    After returning to her original body, Qin Shuman had advanced to a Second Order Cataclysmic. However... her body was still Yan Chen''s spouse, an ordinary human. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So even though she was full of energy, she was still no match for Qiu Tu.


    And Qiu Tu, rather addicted to "role-playing," truly immersed himself in the identity of the "Inspector" and began a series of "instructions" for Qin Shuman, his "subordinate."


    In his past life, Qiu Tu had always been particularly fond of fire engines. Because they could sound their sirens while spraying water.


    Now, Qiu Tu also had a particular fondness for Qin Shuman. Because... the reason is the same.


    Plus, perhaps due to Tang Feifei''s training, Qiu Tu was now incredibly powerful.


    Before, if he had work that should last an hour, he might finish it in 30 or 40 minutes. Now, he could take two hours for an hour''s worth of work.


    What''s more, Qin Shuman was not Tang Feifei. The tasks she arranged weren''t as intensive. So after just an hour, Qin Shuman began to beg for mercy.


    Later, she could only cry out, "Inspector, please spare your subordinate! Your subordinate has to work tomorrow..."


    [Threat in the Darkness (Completed)]


    [Commitment to the Evil God (Completed)]


    [Revenge of the Linked Formation (Completed)]


    [Victory Fruit - Regional Controller (34 days)]


    ...


    And so, the night passed without further words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman almost woke up together.

 Chapter 497 - 317: A Night with Qin Shuman_3

    It could also be considered that absence makes the heart grow fonder. The two of them had breakfast together in the room.


    Qiu Tu had milk, while Qin Shuman had a more substantial meal which included fried dough sticks and soy milk.


    After breakfast, their rare moment of leisure came to an end.


    Qin Shuman, like a dutiful little wife, tenderly helped Qiu Tu put on his clothes and fastened the buttons.


    Although this woman was competent and calm outside, she showed a gentler, more tender side in front of Qiu Tu.


    The tough times they had initially endured had become the deepest bond between them.


    As she helped smooth out the wrinkles on his uniform, Qin Shuman hooked her arms around Qiu Tu''s neck and teased, "Minister Qiu~~ do you find me delicious, or is Director Tang more to your taste?"


    Since Su Xiaowan was Qin Shuman''s spy, even one of her possessions, Qiu Tu never thought he could keep his affairs with Tang Feifei from her.


    So, hearing Qin Shuman''s question, Qiu Tu coughed once and then said affectionately, "Of course it''s you..."


    "My relationship with Director Tang... Ah, you know."


    Although Qiu Tu didn''t spell it out, his words hinted at "his reluctance."


    Qin Shuman... of course didn''t believe it.


    She was no fool.


    She knew very well how "happy" Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were together.


    So, with a roll of her eyes and feigning sorrow, she said, "I understand, I understand~~ after all, Director Tang can offer you a better future, Minister Qiu."


    "And that''s something I can''t give you." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having said that, Qin Shuman then clutched at her right chest and said softly, "But... you must never forget, Minister Qiu, that Shuman once took a knife and got hurt for you."


    There was still a knife wound over her right breast, inflicted by Master Qin Si''s last shred of remorse that Qiu Tu had made him act on!


    Now, as Qin Shuman brought it up, Qiu Tu''s gaze softened. He gently hugged her, "Don''t worry. I will never forget about you."


    "After all... the woman I love most is you."


    ... Until you take that knife away.


    Upon hearing his words, Qin Shuman "giggled" and put away the military dagger she had taken from Qiu Tu''s waist.


    Then she stood on tiptoe, turning her back, and waved goodbye with a smile, "Well then, goodbye, Minister Qiu."


    "We''ll keep in touch by phone."


    Qiu Tu "hmmed" once and left Room 927 with a calm face.


    It wasn''t until he got on the elevator that Qiu Tu wiped off his sweat. This woman... was truly enchanting yet dangerous.


    With that thought, a smile couldn''t help but creep across his lips...


    What he didn''t know...


    was that after he left, Qin Shuman, listening to his deceptive sweet talk, was even happier than he was....


    .....


    Having driven away from the Milan Grand Hotel, Qiu Tu went straight to the Investigation Bureau.


    He took the elevator up to the ninth floor.


    Arriving at his office, Qiu Tu opened the safe.


    Inside the safe, Larilo, trapped by the Soul Shackles, was idly entertaining herself.


    She transformed herself into trees, then into vines, and then into a bird.


    After all... her soul form was inherently mutable.


    At first, she didn''t care much when she saw Qiu Tu. However, catching a whiff and her eyes lighting up, she said excitedly, "Qiu Tu, you were so wild last night and this morning, huh?"


    "Not bad at all. Worthy of being my follower."


    Qiu Tu:...


    With that, she closed her eyes and began blissfully absorbing the power of Reproduction from Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu knew the power absorbed in this non-possession way was limited, and besides, it had been quite a while since last night''s "battle," so he didn''t mind.


    On the contrary, for the plan he had with Qin Shuman, he purposely brought Larilo out, allowing her an even easier time absorbing energy.


    And so, patiently waiting for Larilo to finish absorbing the Cataclysmic Power, Qiu Tu finally spoke, "Your Highness, do you want revenge?"


    -------

 Chapter 498 - 318: Making the Same Mistake as the Cowherd (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo continued to absorb the aura emanating from Qiu Tu''s body while speaking nonchalantly, "Revenge? What revenge?"


    "I''ve never been one to hold grudges, so why should I seek revenge?"


    After speaking, she paused for a moment, then looked up at Qiu Tu and asked, "But... which enemy are you referring to?"


    "Is it my sister? Is it Yan Chen? Is it Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, Wang Hu who attacked me? Is it the Political Department Investigators who captured my followers? Or... is it that man who sneezed at me after I fell, wandering in Xinjie City!"


    By the end, the scarlet in Larilo''s eyes began to twinkle with a chilling light. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    This Heretic Goddess Girl doesn''t really hold grudges...


    She''d probably have killed all those who offended her if she had the strength.


    Muttering to himself inwardly, Qiu Tu then said quite directly, "Your Highness. I can''t really help you with the others... for the time being."


    "But with Yan Chen... I do have a way."


    While Qiu Tu spoke, Larilo finally finished absorbing the Cataclysmic Power of the ''Reproductive Path.''


    She glanced at Qiu Tu, sized him up, and then uttered two words, "Just you?"


    She took a seat, leaning on the altar, with her legs crossed, and then said, "Yan Chen is a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "Moreover, he absorbed some of my power and might have taken a big step toward the Fourth Order."


    "With your strength around the Second Order, would you be able to avenge me?"


    Qiu Tu''s current strength truly wasn''t as strong as Yan Chen''s. But... he wasn''t exactly weak either.


    His Cataclysm Path was somewhat unique, changing according to his highest official rank.


    As a Deputy Staff Head, he was a First-Order Catastropher. As Staff Head, a Peak First-Order. As a Deputy Department Head, a Second Order Cataclysmic. Now that he was a Department Head, of course, he was a Second-order Peak Cataclysmic.


    Moreover, he had been training and learning martial arts with Tang Feifei during this period.


    Although Tang Feifei drained him every night... in reality, before or after the draining, Tang Feifei actually taught him some useful stuff.


    So, his combat ability, evasion, and footwork had all significantly improved.


    And what was more important... Qiu Tu didn''t need to act personally! He had enforcers!


    Thinking this way, he couldn''t help but say, "Although I''m only a Second Order Cataclysmic, I can command a Third Order one, can''t I?"


    "I''m no match for Yan Chen. But what about a Third Order Cataclysmic?"


    "What about a Third Order Cataclysmic with heavy firepower?"


    "Could we kill Yan Chen then?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo looked at him with a hint of surprise.


    Instead of answering his question directly, she smirked mischievously and teased, "Qiu Tu~~ isn''t your human world''s political field supposed to be full of pretense and flattery, where one meddles with superiors and deceives subordinates, rising step by step?"


    "How come with you... it''s all about fighting and killing?"


    She tilted her head slightly, with a hint of reminiscence, and said, "I remember there''s a common saying in your human world: ''Jianghu isn''t about fighting and killing, but about human relations and worldliness,'' right?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and replied, "Your Highness, you''re not wrong. That''s indeed the path most people take."


    "But... I''m different. My path is somewhat more special."


    "I believe in proving oneself through strength! If those above me want me to climb, then certainly I''d happily do so. If they don''t... then slicing the ones blocking my way wouldn''t stop me from reaching the peak, right?"


    Larilo, hearing this, looked at Qiu Tu, her mouth slightly agape.


    She felt that compared to herself, Qiu Tu seemed more like an Evil God!


    ''What on earth... is his Path?'' she wondered.


    ''Destruction?''


    Larilo felt a bit confused.


    But... regardless of whether she understood Qiu Tu or not, since he was willing to avenge her, she would naturally cooperate.


    So, she listened patiently to Qiu Tu''s "revenge" plan, ready to offer some of her own suggestions.


    Qiu Tu''s revenge plan was simple: determine Yan Chen''s schedule in advance, then use the Lianzhen Special Combat Team to assassinate him.


    The Lianzhen Special Combat Team had one Third Order Cataclysmic, four Second Order Cataclysmics. Add a sudden attack with heavy firepower, and it might just work to take Yan Chen down in one go.


    But compared to Qiu Tu''s optimism, Larilo, who knew Yan Chen more deeply, shook her head slightly.


    She believed the success rate of this plan was not high.


    The main reason was not Qiu Tu''s plan or his strength, but... it was Yan Chen''s abilities.


    Based on Larilo''s interactions with Yan Chen...


    Like her, Third Order Yan Chen was also a ''Life'' pathway Cataclysmic. Those of the Life pathway inherently have stronger survival abilities.


    One of Yan Chen''s abilities was ''Life Devouring,'' which allowed him to consume the power and life of other Cataclysmics of the same path.


    The other was ''Turtle''s Breath,'' related to strength growth and survival.


    Even though she had never seen the specific effects of this ability... judging from the exuberant vitality in Yan Chen''s body and his wrinkled, aged appearance, Larilo theorized:


    The effect of this ability was likely to lock away vitality, causing one''s own vitality to become extremely weak, thereby reducing consumption.


    In this way, the locked and stored vitality could be put to various uses¡ªit could gradually enhance strength, or, in case of injury or danger, heal oneself.


    So, Larilo thought... it would be very difficult to kill Yan Chen with just one Third Order Cataclysmic, four Second Order Cataclysmics, and heavy weaponry.


    Of course, even so, she advised Qiu Tu to proceed.

 Chapter 499 - 318: Making the Same Mistake as the Cowherd (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Because... not long ago, Yan Chen had just absorbed a portion of Shen Lingshuang''s power. He probably hasn''t had the chance to fully absorb it yet, and it''s still stored within his body.


    If given enough time, Yan Chen should be able to completely absorb these powers.


    After that, accumulating more and more, he might very well advance to the Fourth Order.


    But... if at this time, Qiu Tu causes Yan Chen to be seriously injured, then the power he absorbed will certainly be prioritized for healing.


    This would significantly deplete the vitality stored in his body, delaying his progress.


    The reason Qiu Tu came to see Larilo was to get sound advice to adjust his plan.


    So, when he received an answer that didn''t meet his expectations, Qiu Tu was not too disappointed.


    Especially after gaining a new idea, he felt it was more than worth it.


    So, he couldn''t help but stroke his chin, lost in thought...


    Several minutes passed like this. Gradually, Qiu Tu came back to his senses.


    He asked Larilo in detail once more, and after confirming that she really didn''t have any other information, he locked her back in the safe...


    Seeing Qiu Tu treat her so ruthlessly like discarding a worn-out tool, Larilo was simply furious!


    She began to unleash her full repertoire of swear words!


    "Qiu Tu, you mother*#@*&! I hope my sister forces you into submission! I hope you grow old together! May you have octuplets in one birth!"


    Qiu Tu completely ignored Larilo''s "curse" and walked back to his office.


    Upon returning to his office, Qiu Tu didn''t idle. He knew that attacking Yan Chen was a minor issue, just like the United Front Special Combat Team, because the biggest issue in Xinjie City now was only one: the expansion plan for the Boundless Heart Sea, or rather... gaining control over the territory of the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region!


    As for the rest, they were just minor setbacks on the path to accomplishing that plan.


    And to gain control over the territory of the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region... he still needed Larilo''s memory.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also checked the harvest from the Loyalty Game the night before.


    As he expected, even though Shen Lingshuang had been fighting against Larilo for three consecutive days and Larilo had regained a little bit of strength,


    with Xiao Bai''s help, Larilo still ended up defeated.


    The loot exploded today was still meager, only two items. One was the usual loyalty +3, and the other was a "Small Memory Fragment," just like yesterday.


    Qiu Tu didn''t delay and sat in his chair to use the memory fragment.


    The next second, darkness fell before Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    When he came to his senses again, he found himself once more in the dense primordial jungle of the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region.


    This time, "he" appeared by a small stream.


    The stream seemed to sit within that dense, primeval jungle. On both sides of the stream were sandy banks and moss-covered stones.


    Sunlight filtered through the layers of green leaves, dappled across the surface of the stream, with golden specks dancing on the glimmering water as if multitudes of tiny sprites were performing a dance.


    The water flowed gently, making a pleasant babbling sound, as if nature itself was playing a soft melody.


    Amidst such a beautiful scene, "Qiu Tu" began to shed the clothes from "his" body, piece by piece. Overgarments, lightweight robes, undershirts, wraps...


    After putting all the clothes aside on the bank, "Qiu Tu" lifted "her" crystal-clear jade feet and, with long, graceful legs, stepped into the stream bit by bit...


    The water''s surface reflected Larilo''s stunningly beautiful and enchanting face, making the whole scene seem both sacred and attractive.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu was dumbfounded at this moment; he never expected the memory fragment would reveal this sort of memory of Larilo.


    What was more important was that Larilo was bathing with her head bowed, so even if Qiu Tu didn''t want to watch, he could only "be forced" to observe.


    The delicate skin that seemed ready to burst with a touch, the soft fullness, the slender waist that could be encircled with hands... along with the tactile sensation of his own touching, it was almost enough to unsettle Qiu Tu''s mind.


    He was a decent person after all! How could he make the same mistake that Cowherd made!


    Wouldn''t Larilo not offering herself up be against tradition?


    While internally ranting, Qiu Tu also didn''t forget the purpose of using the "Memory Fragment": to find the central hub of the Xinjie Territory.


    So, after admiring Larilo''s fair skin a few more moments, he gathered his thoughts and started looking for the location of the central hub!


    This time, Qiu Tu quickly sensed the location of the "Central Hub" once again.


    To the southeast of the stream! S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as to how far exactly, he couldn''t tell.


    Still, this was enough!


    Based on the mathematics and geography knowledge from his past life: on a plane, two non-parallel lines are bound to intersect.


    So, theoretically, as long as he could remember the direction of the "Central Hub" from two or three different areas,


    he could definitely find an intersection point.


    And this intersection point would be where the "Central Hub" is located!


    With this thought, Qiu Tu hurriedly made a note of all the images and scenes before his eyes, intending to look for Larilo''s bathing spot after coming to the territory of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Possibly because it was too conspicuous, or maybe because Qiu Tu was very attentive,


    while memorizing, he noticed... beneath the softness of Larilo''s left breast, there was a black mole.


    That mole was a bit special, though not large it protruded on both sides and dipped in the middle, and as the base grew smaller, it resembled a green pea-sized heart...

 Chapter 501 - 319: Does She Have a Problem? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin nodded, then turned and walked toward the door, ready to bring Yanyan in.


    However, just as she reached the door, Tan Huimin suddenly halted in her tracks.


    Standing there, after hesitating briefly, she turned back to Qiu Tu and said, "Minister, Miss Yanyan came by herself."


    When Qiu Tu heard Tan Huimin''s words, he was startled at first. Then his expression became reserved, and he looked up at Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin conveyed a look to Qiu Tu, who nodded slightly, indicating he understood.


    After Tan Huimin left, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then stood up and fiddled slightly with the video camera in his office.


    In turbulent times, while one may harbor ill will, it is essential to maintain a guard.


    One must still be careful in all things.


    Indeed, Tan Huimin managed to buy Qiu Tu a bit of time outside. Only then did she knock on the door and walk in with Yanyan.


    Yanyan was dressed today in a form-fitting cheongsam, perhaps because it was late autumn, her shoulders draped with a white cashmere shawl. Paired with her angelic face and skin white as snow, she was the spitting image of a famous socialite from the Republic era.


    After giving Yanyan a once-over, Qiu Tu stood up and gestured to the chair in front of him, saying, "Miss Yanyan, hello. May I ask what brings you here today?"


    Yanyan, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, scanned him up and down with her clear eyes.


    After a moment, she smiled brightly and took a seat.


    Once seated, Yanyan fixed her almond-shaped eyes on Qiu Tu, then inquired, "Qiu... Minsiter. May I call you Qiu Tu?"


    Faced with Yan Chen''s daughter, respect was due. So Qiu Tu sat down, then smiled and nodded, saying, "Of course."


    Upon hearing this, Yanyan''s face lit up with a happy smile. Her face, somewhat similar to Qin Shuman''s, gained two adorable dimples when she smiled, looking irresistibly cute.


    "Great! Then from now on, I''ll call you Qiu Tu!"


    Afterward, Yanyan said, "By the way, Qiu Tu. Could I ask you for a favor?"


    In fact, as soon as he learned Yanyan had come to see him, Qiu Tu had guessed why she was there.


    Indeed... It was precisely because he had guessed her purpose that Qiu Tu felt he could extract Yan Chen''s itinerary from her.


    Although he had seen through Yanyan''s intentions, Qiu Tu still played along, expressing his curiosity.


    He leaned back in his chair and asked, "Please tell me, Miss Yanyan. I won''t hesitate if it''s within my power to assist."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan quickly leaned forward, her gaze intense as she looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Qiu Tu~~ would you be my guide! Accompany me around Xinjie City?"


    As she spoke, possibly worried about a misunderstanding, Yanyan hurriedly explained further.


    "Actually... I came to Xinjie City without my father''s knowledge."


    "I heard people say my father was in trouble, that he had fought with an Evil God and got trapped with it, his life or death unknown, which is why I rushed over in fear."


    "Who would have thought that once I arrived, my father was fine. He severely criticized me for being impulsive and hasty, then ordered me to return to the Sanctuary."


    At this point, Yanyan pouted, her tone becoming somewhat petulant, "But I''ve just arrived in Xinjie City! I haven''t had fun or seen anything yet."


    "So, I don''t want to go back, I want to wander around Xinjie City, travel a bit."


    "That way, my journey to the Planning Area isn''t wasted."


    Yanyan indeed had a childish streak, pouting one second, unhappy, and the next second, when talking about going out to play, her face immediately beamed with a beautiful smile.


    She said with a giggle, "So, Qiu Tu~ would you take me to wander around Xinjie City?"


    Humans are a peculiar species. Things too easily obtained are often taken for granted.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu did not agree immediately, but instead revealed a look of hesitation.


    He spoke with uncertainty, "Miss Yanyan... Your father is the Bureau Chief, my superior. He doesn''t want you to travel, prefers you return. I... it would be inappropriate to defy his wishes."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan chuckled and said, "Qiu Tu, you''re still playing games with me."


    "Everyone in the Quan Investigation Bureau knows you are my father''s trusted... troublemaker."


    "He always has his way in the Investigation Bureau, with the few times he''s been bested all at your hands." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So... you''re still afraid of him?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Yanyan''s bright, alluring eyes gazed playfully at Qiu Tu, "See... you were already set to oppose him. Now, he doesn''t want me to travel, and if you take me to travel, that''s another successful opposition, right?"


    At this point, she exaggeratedly gestured with her hands as if to draw a picture, "Just think about it. You kidnap his darling daughter, wouldn''t he be furious?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Truth be told, the pie Yanyan was drawing wasn''t very tempting, nowhere near as attractive as her father''s offer, even somewhat childish.


    But since Qiu Tu had intended to use Yanyan anyway, he coughed once, then followed her logic, "What you''re saying... does make some sense."


    "However... Miss Yanyan. Do you think if I take you out to travel, the Bureau Chief''s influence in Xinjie won''t find out?"


    "Once he learns of it, wouldn''t he send someone to take you back?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan''s face indeed showed a hint of hesitation, then she couldn''t help but ask, "That''s true. So... what should we do?"


    Qiu Tu thought for a moment, then said, "How about this. Go to your father''s secretary and get a copy of your father''s schedule for the next few days."

 Chapter 502 - 319: Does She Have a Problem? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ```


    "Then let''s make a plan. We''ll see which day your father is the busiest, too preoccupied to look after you,"


    "At that time, we''ll choose that day to go out and have fun."


    "That way, even if the Bureau Chief discovers you''ve run off, he''ll be too busy to catch you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan''s eyes lit up slightly.


    This girl seemed to truly possess the fearless spirit of a second-generation, so she excitedly said, "It''s a deal!"


    "I''ll go find Secretary Zhao right now and secretly get a copy of my father''s itinerary."


    "Leave me your communicator number. Once I''ve stolen it, I''ll contact you. Then we can arrange a place to meet up."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded with a smile and then gave her his phone number.


    The whole conversation went incredibly smoothly, so smoothly that Qiu Tu could hardly believe it. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And... the situation that both Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin feared did not happen¡ªthe setup.


    Just now, when they learned Yanyan had come alone to find Qiu Tu, their first thought was: Is Yanyan planning to deliberately tear her clothes, scream for help, and frame Qiu Tu?


    But now it seemed... perhaps they were too suspicious from playing too many tricks, and they had thought too ill of the girl before them.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt a bit of "self-reproach": What a nice little white rabbit she is, how could I have thought that way about her...


    Just like that, after finishing their chat, Qiu Tu stood up to escort Yanyan out of the office.


    When they reached the office door, something seemed off to Qiu Tu, so he feigned curiosity and probed, "By the way, Miss Yanyan, why did you choose me to be your guide?"


    "Yesterday... when we first met, you seemed not to know my identity. But you still wanted me to be your guide?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan''s face turned red, and then she tilted her head and coughed before saying, "Well... Minister Qiu, you might not have a clear understanding of your own appearance."


    "With a face like yours, we have a special term for it among our group of girls."


    A question mark slowly emerged above Qiu Tu''s head, "A special term?"


    Yanyan chuckled "hehe" twice, then said, "Handsome enough to induce ovulation."


    After saying this, she didn''t wait for Qiu Tu to react, but opened the door "whoosh" and ran out!


    Tan Huimin had been listening intently to the situation inside the office from outside.


    Seeing the door suddenly open and Yanyan run out, she was taken aback and quickly followed.


    Meanwhile, inside the office, the question marks over Qiu Tu''s head were multiplying...


    ''Handsome enough to induce ovulation?''


    ''This...''


    After a moment, he finally grasped the meaning behind Yanyan''s words.


    After realizing it, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but shake his head slightly, feeling somewhat astonished: Are the girls from the Sanctuary so precocious?


    Such... risqu¨¦ phrases could actually come out of their mouths.


    It was somewhat a waste of Yanyan''s pure face that so resembled Qin Shuman''s...


    However... his own appeal was indeed strong. If Yanyan had set her sights on him because of that yesterday and came over today to flirt, it was understandable.


    Moreover, as long as Yanyan could get her hands on Yan Chen''s itinerary, what did it matter whether she was pure or saucy?


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu glanced at Tan Huimin, who had caught up with Yanyan and was realizing that everything was a misunderstanding, slowly walking back. Qiu Tu then returned to his office and closed the door...


    ...


    Time flew by quickly.


    At 4 PM, Yanyan sent Qiu Tu a message, telling him she had gotten her hands on Yan Chen''s itinerary.


    She saw that Yan Chen was free the day after tomorrow, and they could go out together.


    Qiu Tu was not really out to accompany this young lady for fun. So, seeing her say this, he sent a message back, asking to meet and take a look at the itinerary, to give her some advice.


    Qiu Tu had a very good reason for this: Yanyan, after all, was not a high official at the Investigation Bureau and did not know which meetings or arrangements were important.


    Thus, it was necessary for Qiu Tu to take a look personally.


    Yanyan happily agreed, and even made an appointment with Qiu Tu on a place for them to meet: the parking garage underneath the Investigation Bureau building.


    However, after pondering for a moment, to avoid attracting attention, Qiu Tu changed the meeting place to his own 12th-floor private office...


    Yanyan had no objections.


    At 6 PM,


    Yanyan took advantage of Yan Chen being busy and the other division chiefs and department chiefs not paying attention, to sneakily slip toward Qiu Tu''s 12th-floor office.


    The slyness of her manner was full of stealth.


    If someone saw her by chance, they might suspect that there was something secretive between Qiu Tu and Yanyan.


    At that time, Qiu Tu had been waiting there for a while.


    Upon seeing Yanyan approaching, he quietly opened the door and signaled for Yanyan to come in.


    Yanyan crouched and sprinted in. Qiu Tu looked around the corridor to make sure no one was watching before closing the door.


    After shutting the office door, Qiu Tu turned to Yanyan and asked, "Did everything go smoothly?"


    Yanyan replied with a smile, "Of course~~"


    "After all, I am the Bureau Chief''s daughter, and Secretary Zhao didn''t have any suspicion of me at all."


    "So, I secretly noted down the itinerary and even went back to check that everything was correct before I sent you the message."


    Hearing Yanyan''s words, Qiu Tu praised her with a smile, "Well done."


    "Let me take a look at the itinerary first, and then we can set a time."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yanyan handed over the itinerary without any doubt.


    As she handed it to Qiu Tu, her fingers seemed to unintentionally touch his hand.


    ```

 Chapter 503 - 319: Does She Have a Problem? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    ```


    Qiu Tu felt the slightly ambiguous and teasing gesture, yet he did not call it out by name.


    Instead, he returned to his desk with a smile on his lips, holding the itinerary.


    Standing at his desk, Qiu Tu placed the handwritten itinerary on the tabletop.


    The handwriting on the itinerary was delicate and graceful, a pleasure to look upon.


    Qiu Tu rapidly reviewed Yan Chen''s schedule. Today was a given, but starting from tomorrow, Yan Chen would be busier.


    In the morning at 9 AM, he was due at City Hall for the Municipal Committee meeting, and Commissioner Jiang had invited him for lunch at noon.


    At 2 PM, he would first receive a briefing from Lai Shun, the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau''s Operations. At 3 PM, he was to review the training outcomes of the Special Service Department from the recent months with Lai Shun.


    At 5 PM, there was a call scheduled with the Investigation Bureau Chief of the neighboring city, Hejian City...


    Having reviewed tomorrow''s schedule, Qiu Tu continued to look at the day after...


    At 9 AM the day after tomorrow, Yan Chen was to host a senior meeting at the Investigation Bureau, at 11 AM.....12 PM.....


    As Qiu Tu silently examined Yan Chen''s itinerary,


    Yanyan was not idle either.


    Possibly due to coming from the Sanctuary, she naturally felt a sense of superiority towards the Planning Area. She didn''t feel constrained by the fact that this was the Head of the Political Department''s office but wandered freely.


    She looked at the office decorations for a while, then at the documents on Qiu Tu''s desk.


    Just wandering and perusing for a bit, she eventually made her way over to Qiu Tu.


    Getting closer to Qiu Tu, Yanyan stealthily, as if it were nothing, placed her hand on Qiu Tu''s shoulder, encircling him, leaning gently against him, and then sweetly asked, "Qiu Tu~ how is your research coming along? Which day shall we pick?"


    Yanyan''s subtle movements were not lost on Qiu Tu.


    He kept silent, smiling, and then said, "I''m still looking."


    "But I think the day after tomorrow is not a good choice."


    "Oh? Why?" Yanyan leaned in closer, curious about Qiu Tu''s statement.


    It wasn''t clear if it was intentional, but her face was almost rubbing against Qiu Tu''s.


    Qiu Tu could practically smell her faint body fragrance.


    It was a lovely scent of gardenia, with a seductive quality akin to that of a young girl.


    Qiu Tu did not reject the girl''s proximity and instead looked up at her, feigning intimacy, and said, "Because.... the reason your father is busy the day after is because he is holding a high-level meeting."


    "And I... am one of the senior officials. I will be busy too."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a hint of realization crossed Yanyan''s face.


    She hugged Qiu Tu, giggling, and said, "My goodness. Look at my memory. I actually forgot about that."


    Qiu Tu nodded with a smile.


    He was just about to say something else.


    But at that moment, he suddenly felt Yanyan''s arms tightening around him, growing tighter and tighter! Like two steel gates clamping down on him! Rendering him completely immobile!


    And the next second, Yanyan''s clothes split open at her back, revealing two more arms that pulled out a thread as thin as a hair and swiftly wound it around Qiu Tu''s neck!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu''s eyes bulged in terror as he frantically looked at Yanyan and exclaimed, "You! You''re not Yanyan!" S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yanyan" simply smiled and said, "The Director is joking. I am Yanyan~~~~"


    After saying that, the hands on her back yanked the thread tight!


    The next second, Qiu Tu''s neck, a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened, was neatly severed!


    His head fell to the ground with disbelief still etched on his face.


    Blood spurted out, spraying into the air!


    Witnessing the spectacular fountain of blood, "Yanyan" closed her eyes in rapture, inhaling the metallic scent and remarked, "The blood of Cataclysmics is so rich~~~"


    While she was savoring this,


    A familiar male voice suddenly echoed in the office, "I told you she wasn''t Yanyan, right?"


    ----


    ```

 Chapter 504 - 320: Flipping the Table! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing that familiar man''s voice, "Yanyan" was startled, then turned her head to look in the direction the voice was coming from!


    As a result, she saw Qiu Tu, who was supposed to be decapitated, actually standing perfectly fine at the entrance of a nearby resting area.


    By his side stood three women: Tang Feifei, Tan Huimin, and... Su Xiaowan, who was curiously peering over in this direction.


    And it was with these three women that he had just been speaking.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, "Yanyan" squinted her eyes menacingly at him and said, "You... you''re not dead?"


    She looked at the "Qiu Tu" in front of her, who was still spurting blood into the air, and said, "No, that''s not right... When I tested you earlier, I did sense your skin''s defensive Cataclysmic treasure."


    At this point, she hesitated for a moment and tentatively asked, "A clone?"


    "Is your ability to create clones?"


    Qiu Tu had no interest in clearing up the enemy''s confusion, so he smiled and said, "Save your questions for when you see Yama. You should ask him yourself."


    "After all, he''s family to you, so he probably won''t hide anything from you."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu stepped back with Tan Huimin and Su Xiaowan, leaving space for Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei, the Chief Commissioner, didn''t mind being used by Qiu Tu as a fighter.


    She just glanced sideways at Qiu Tu and then slowly stepped forward.


    Seeing Tang Feifei approach, "Yanyan" watched her warily.


    At that moment, she dropped the disguise and her figure began to elongate slowly.


    In just a moment, the pure and lovely girl transformed into a stark-naked woman with long legs and arms.


    The woman had a slender figure, a beautiful yet eerie face, deep crimson eyes, and skin that was an unsettling mix of black and white.


    Returning to her True Body, she crouched slightly, all four arms and legs adopting a unique stance as if ready to leap up and pounce like a spider.


    Seeing "Yanyan''s" strange appearance, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face revealed a hint of mockery, "Not very strong, but full of tricks."


    "A mere Second-Order Cataclysmic thinking they can commit murder in the Investigation Bureau."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei''s left foot came down with a "crack," smashing seven or eight tiles on the floor of Qiu Tu''s office!


    Then, using the reaction force from her stomp, she turned into a blur and vanished from the spot!


    The next instant, she appeared in the air above the "Spider Woman"!


    "Break the air!" With a light shout from Tang Feifei, her figure tensed like a drawn bow as her right hand swung down fiercely!


    Tang Feifei''s movements were incredibly fast, and the "Spider Woman" simply couldn''t react in time!


    She could only forcefully raise her four arms, attempting a desperate four-against-one to withstand Tang Feifei''s punch!


    But... Tang Feifei was a Third-Order Peak Cataclysmic, and a true combatant at that! S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Playing tricks and using strange or sinister Cataclysmic abilities and treasures to plot against her might work, but to confront her head-on... even Yama, also at Third-Order Peak, was no match for her! Let alone a Second-Order Cataclysmic before her now!


    So, in that instant, there were only the sounds of "crack" "crack" "crack!"


    The "Spider Woman''s" four arms didn''t last a second before Tang Feifei smashed them apart!


    And Tang Feifei pressed on relentlessly. Her wheat-colored fist, undiminished in velocity, falsely slow but truly fast, thudded against the "Spider Woman''s" chest!


    The next second, with a "crack," the "Spider Woman''s" chest caved in, and then she vomited blood and was sent flying through the air!


    In just a short two-second span, a Second-Order Cataclysmic killer was easily crushed by Tang Feifei!


    Meanwhile, witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu asked, "All done?"


    Tang Feifei''s hand slowly retracted, not a drop of sweat shed. She simply uttered a cold "Mhm."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s response, Qiu Tu excitedly ran to the "Spider Woman''s" side.


    He first checked the Spider Woman''s breath to ensure she was still alive, then began to search her body.


    Soon, he found a palm-sized mirror and a ball of silk thread.


    Seeing the two Cataclysmic treasures, Qiu Tu''s eyes lit up subtly.


    It didn''t matter that the "Spider Woman" didn''t survive a single move against Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei!


    It was because Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were strong, not because she was weak.


    With a disguising Cataclysmic treasure and an offensive Cataclysmic treasure in her possession, along with her own physical strength and multiple limbs,


    ordinary Second-Order Cataclysmics wouldn''t stand a chance against her. In fact... even some unprepared Third-Order Cataclysmics could potentially fall to her assassination.


    Indeed, after glancing at the two Cataclysmic treasures that Qiu Tu had found, Tang Feifei slowly began to say, "The Scarlet Widow."


    "A notorious black market killer from the Planning Area."


    "A Second-Order Cataclysmic who fights with ''Chaos'', experienced in combat and possessing great physical strength. Her Cataclysmic ability, called ''Crimson Transformation'', can multiply her physical power and grow two additional arms!"


    "Suddenly attacking, even Third-Order Cataclysmics would struggle to escape."


    "And she possesses both the ''Substitute Trick Realm'' and the ''Silk of Ten Thousand Waters'' Cataclysmic treasures."


    "The former allows her to freely change her appearance and shape, becoming another person; the latter is sharp enough to easily cut through anyone below Fourth-Order disaster-evolvers."


    "So, if you let your guard down and allow her to get close, even Third-Order Cataclysmics would struggle to dodge her assassination."


    "That''s why... her bounty at the Sanctuary is as high as 60 Little Goldfish."

 Chapter 505 - 320: Flipping the Table! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ```


    At this point, Tang Feifei turned to Qiu Tu and asked, "So... how exactly did you discover her disguise?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s question, Qiu Tu satisfyingly stuffed the two Cataclysmic treasures into his pocket and then replied to Tang Feifei, "Quite simple. Demeanor...."


    "Demeanor?" Tang Feifei was a bit puzzled.


    Qiu Tu pointed at the Scarlet Widow and said, "She had too much of a worldly air about her, nothing like a proper young lady from a good family."


    Seeing that Tang Feifei seemed somewhat contemplative, Qiu Tu continued to "lick the package."


    While doing so, the entire process of how he saw through the Scarlet Widow''s disguise spontaneously surfaced in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    Actually... as early as yesterday, the first time in Yan Chen''s office when he met the Scarlet Widow, Qiu Tu felt something was off.


    He found it strange at the time: Xinjie City is in such chaos now, why would Yan Chen send his daughter here? (Chapter 314)


    This didn''t seem quite reasonable.


    Following that, the Scarlet Widow pointed rudely at Qiu Tu, saying that she wanted Qiu Tu to....


    To tell the truth, the Scarlet Widow''s "heiress" demeanor was quite convincing; she really had the domineering air of a daughter of one of Xinjie City''s Three Giants. (Chapter 314)


    But the problem was... it was unreasonable. Yan Chen might be one of the Three Giants in Xinjie City, but in the Sanctuary, he was just an ordinary mid-level worker; how could his daughter have developed such an arrogant character!


    Of course... at that point, Qiu Tu just felt slightly that something was off, but he didn''t take it seriously ¡ª after all, there were plenty of cases where people became inflated with pride once they learned of their father''s high status and influence.


    So, it also made him treat the Scarlet Widow as Yanyan when he met her today.


    The turning point came after Qiu Tu sent Yanyan away.


    Don''t forget, because he was worried about Yanyan setting him up with a honey trap, Qiu Tu had turned on the video recorder beforehand today.


    So after he sent Yanyan off and closed the door, Qiu Tu switched off the video recorder and took out the videotape, then habitually checked the contents recorded on it.


    The camera was positioned behind Qiu Tu.


    Thus it captured all of Yanyan''s expressions and movements, clear as day.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu lit a cigarette and quietly watched it while smoking.


    The footage was consistent with what Qiu Tu had witnessed, and all of Yanyan''s expressions and actions had no issues whatsoever, all incredibly natural.


    But as he watched, Qiu Tu''s brow furrowed, sensing something was off.


    Because he felt... this Yanyan differed slightly from the Yanyan he had in his "memory."


    The Yanyan in his "memory" was a bit shy, somewhat pure, a little melancholic and sentimental.


    Although it was Larilo in disguise. But... don''t forget Larilo was planning to impersonate Yanyan to infiltrate Yan Chen''s side!


    If she hadn''t thoroughly understood Yanyan''s character and wasn''t absolutely confident, would she dare to impersonate Yanyan beside Yan Chen?


    Yan Chen was not like Qiu Tu, who had never seen Yanyan before; he was Yanyan''s biological father!


    Realizing this, Qiu Tu immediately sensed something was wrong. So he extinguished his cigarette in the ashtray, then got up and opened the safe, calling the Evil God simulacrum Larilo once more to inquire carefully.


    Of course, before impersonating Yanyan, Larilo had Jia Wei and Old Qin meticulously investigate Yanyan.


    Because Yanyan had grown up in the Sanctuary, her personality was somewhat na?ve. Moreover, with her mother passing away early and Yan Chen being busy with work and giving her little attention, she was somewhat sensitive, reserved....


    That was quite different from the brazen Yanyan who flirted with Qiu Tu and could even say things like "handsome enough to induce ovulation"!


    So, right then and there, Qiu Tu affirmed his suspicion: that Yanyan was most likely an imposter!


    And from the facts that Yan Chen hadn''t exposed this Yanyan''s identity, and this Yanyan had been constantly approaching Qiu Tu... Qiu Tu felt...


    ...that Yan Chen might have come to the same conclusion he did: they both thought about flipping the table and mutually destroying each other. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even more, the two of them thought along the same lines: to have a third party take action.


    If Qiu Tu was not mistaken: Yanyan must have indeed come to Xinjie City.


    And certainly, she had been secretly protected somewhere else by Yan Chen''s confidants.


    Only after the assassin impersonating Yanyan successfully killed Qiu Tu and escaped would the real Yanyan appear, bearing an alibi.


    In this way, the event would transform into: an assassin learned that Yan Chen''s daughter had arrived in Xinjie City, took the chance to impersonate Yan Chen''s daughter to get close to Qiu Tu, and became romantically involved with him.


    Blinded by lust, Qiu Tu actually dared to hook up with "his daughter" behind Yan Chen''s back, which allowed the assassin to get close and eventually succeed.


    As for the flaws revealed by the fake Yanyan, Qiu Tu assumed that Yan Chen knew about them, but... a person is defined by their demeanor. Forcing an assassin to pretend to be a pure and modest lady would probably be even more conspicuous.


    Add to that, Yan Chen believed Qiu Tu had never seen Yanyan and had no way to learn about the real Yanyan''s character in a short time, so he implicitly allowed the assassin''s disguise.


    Moreover, from their point of view... even if Qiu Tu detected something amiss, it wouldn''t affect the assassin''s job.


    Because the assassin didn''t need to win Qiu Tu''s trust, but just needed to get close to him to make a move!


    In fact, with the "Scarlet Widow''s" capabilities, as well as Qiu Tu''s reckless boldness, their plan might have succeeded if they were only a bit more cautious.


    But it was precisely those series of tiny flaws that alerted Qiu Tu to the anomaly, ultimately resulting in the plan''s failure.


    Once Qiu Tu discovered that Yan Chen planned to assassinate him, the ever cautious Qiu Tu naturally started to shake up people and employed the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" to impersonate him.


    ```

 Chapter 506 - 320: Flipping the Table! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Even to fully commit to the act, Qiu Tu had placed a "Trigger Paper Figure" on the body of the "Uncompromising Simulacrum."


    As expected, the results were clear, the "Silk of Ten Thousand Waters" was indeed not something that an ordinary defensive relic could withstand, and the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was directly dismembered!


    After sorting through all of his thoughts and experiences for the day, Qiu Tu had also just finished searching the body of the "Scarlet Widow."


    Confirming there were no other spoils of war, Qiu Tu walked over to the side of the Uncompromising Simulacrum.


    He first stored the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" inside the "Gold-Addicted Wallet." Then, he placed the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" aside.


    Next, he picked up the "Silk of Ten Thousand Waters," wrapping it around his body!


    Finally, with both hands, he grabbed the ends of the "Silk of Ten Thousand Waters" and with a fierce expression, he exerted a little force.


    The next second, his clothes and skin were directly cut open!


    Blood splattered, staining the floor red.


    The skin burst and flesh split open, even exposing chilling white bones!


    Tang Feifei watched everything Qiu Tu was doing with cold eyes, a slight fluctuation in her gaze.


    In contrast, Tan Huimin and Su Xiaowan were not so calm. Upon seeing the scene of Qiu Tu ruthlessly harming himself, both of them couldn''t help but cover their mouths and exclaim in shock.


    Tan Huimin even wanted to step forward out of concern.


    But just then, Tang Feifei stopped her, "Don''t come over, he is setting up a scene."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Tan Huimin paused for a moment, then stopped in her tracks.


    Hearing the conversation between the two women, Qiu Tu, already in agony and with a pale face, squeezed out a smile toward Tan Huimin and reassured her, "I''m fine. Listen to Director Tang."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu collected the "Silk of Ten Thousand Waters" and the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," then... lay down in the blood pool of the Uncompromising Simulacrum.


    Blood spread over his body, and coupled with the deep and bone-exposing wounds, anyone would think he had suffered an attack and was not long for this world.


    Seeing that Qiu Tu had set everything up, Tang Feifei suddenly threw a punch towards the rear!


    The next second, the wall of Qiu Tu''s luxuriously decorated office collapsed with a crash!


    "Boom!" A loud noise! Dust filled the air!


    Tang Feifei turned to Tan Huimin and said, "Your turn."


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin hurriedly ran towards the corridor on the 12th floor with her slender legs, shouting loudly, "Assassin! There''s an assassin! Help! Help!"


    The loud noise from Tang Feifei''s kick and punch had already drawn the attention of every office on the 12th floor.


    Now, hearing Tan Huimin''s cries for help, the high-ranking officials, bureau chiefs, and section chiefs discussing matters in the various offices all ran over!


    Seeing Qiu Tu lying in a pool of blood along with the Scarlet Widow, each of them showed surprise and their faces were filled with shock. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all... an attack and injury, or even death, of an Investigation Bureau high-ranking official in their office was a shocking event for the entire Bureau!


    Fortunately... it now seemed that the assassin had been killed or caught. Otherwise, everyone would be blamed and held accountable by the state.


    Thinking this, the most senior among them, Deputy Director of Administration Yu Zhengyi, couldn''t help but look towards Tang Feifei, and then asked with a stern face, "Deputy Director Tang, what happened?"


    "What exactly is going on here? What happened to Minister Qiu?"


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s question, Tang Feifei slowly turned around.


    Then with a cold expression, she glanced over the crowd that had gathered around, looked at Yu Zhengyi, and then said, "What happened?"


    "Just like you saw... Minister Qiu was attacked by an assassin."


    "If I hadn''t been visiting Minister Qiu''s office, he might have died on the spot."


    As she spoke, she pointed to the Scarlet Widow lying on the ground, life hanging in the balance, and said, "As for the assailant, it''s her: the Second Order Cataclymic Awakened, Scarlet Widow. A black market assassin who excels at disguises and stealth kills."


    "Just... what I can''t quite understand is: why would this assassin be disguised as Director Yan''s daughter?"


    ---------

 Chapter 507 - 321

    At this point, Tang Feifei looked around at everyone present, and then slowly began to speak, "Moreover, Minister Qiu told me this afternoon that he had met the ''assassin'' disguised as Director Yan''s daughter yesterday and this morning."


    "And the meeting yesterday took place right in front of Director Yan."


    "Isn''t there a problem with all this?"


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s consecutive questions, the surrounding senior and mid-level members of the Investigation Bureau fell into a stunned silence.


    If they were unclear about what had happened before, simply coming to check on the situation, the meaning behind Tang Feifei''s words instantly made the situation crystal clear: this was yet another confrontation between the Tang Faction and the Yan Faction!


    Although it was unclear exactly what had happened, it wasn''t hard to deduce from the situation on site: either Yan Chen could no longer bear it, flipped the table, and assassinated Qiu Tu; or Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were plotting a trap for Yan Chen.


    But... regardless of the scenario, it meant a massive storm was brewing!


    Frankly speaking... if this were in the past, there would be no such storm. These mid and senior level officials would have definitely already sided with Yan Chen, muddying the waters or arguing in defense of him.


    After all, Yan Chen used to be the Local Tyrant of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, with all mid and senior level positions filled by his followers. Following him meant having a future and prospects.


    But now... after a series of counterattacks by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, leaving Yan Chen in a difficult position, the whole Investigation Bureau of Xinjie City has come to realize... times seem to have changed.


    Yan Chen no longer seems to be the Local Tyrant who had the final say in the Investigation Bureau.


    Moreover, after Yan Chen transferred Qiu Tu and the Sanctuary itself promoted him... rumors began to circulate within the Investigation Bureau.


    The rumors said: when Yan Chen chose the mid and senior-level officials of Xinjie, he only selected those from his faction, committing a taboo in officialdom.


    The Sanctuary was very dissatisfied with Yan Chen''s approach of running the Investigation Bureau of Xinjie City as a monolithic block, treating it as his own independent kingdom.


    At the beginning of Xinjie City''s establishment, there should have only been one Bureau Chief and two Deputy Directors, but the addition of Tang Feifei as a Deputy Director was a sign.


    Yet Yan Chen had failed to understand the Sanctuary''s good intentions and instead intensified his efforts, marginalizing Tang Feifei.


    Only because Xinjie City needed stability in its early days did the Sanctuary refrain from acting against Yan Chen.


    Now, after a year and a half, Xinjie''s situation has stabilized. The Sanctuary finally made its move again: Qiu Tu''s meteoric promotion to Head of the Political Department was a clear signal!


    This rumor was well formed, and although it sounded a bit exaggerated, it had its basis in fact.


    So, in recent times, the mid and senior levels of the Investigation Bureau have all become unsettled.


    Some of them even started to quietly engage with Tang Feifei...


    Consequently, when entangled in the struggle between the Yan Faction and the Tang Faction, the mid and senior officials present fell silent...


    They felt as if they were being pushed to the edge of a cliff, compelled to make their own choices...


    ....


    Meanwhile.


    In Yan Chen''s office.


    The weather in Xinjie City was very nice today, and the sunshine was lovely. However, the curtains in Yan Chen''s office, which are usually drawn, were only half open today.


    This rare brightness made the normally dim office seem much more illuminated.


    And there, sitting on the sofa in this office, were Yan Chen and Deputy Director Lai Shun, facing each other.


    It appeared they had been talking for a while, as the tea by their side had gone cold.


    The soundproofing of the office was excellent, blocking out all the noise from outside. But as both of them were Cataclysmics, they could see through the walls just with their Spiritual Vision.


    So, they silently watched the commotion outside Qiu Tu''s office door, wordless for a long time.


    After a moment, Lai Shun let out a long sigh and then said to Yan Chen, "Director, it''s my fault that this matter wasn''t handled well."


    "The Scarlet Widow is known as a killer with a reputation in the black market for the past two years, having hunted more than one Third Order Cataclysmic, especially skilled in disguise and assassination."


    "I didn''t expect Qiu Tu to see through it, arranging for Tang Feifei to suppress her Cataclysmic Power, disguising herself as an ordinary person, and waiting in the lounge."


    Upon hearing Lai Shun''s words, Yan Chen''s usually expressionless wrinkled face remained unchanged.


    He held the cold tea in his hands and then said softly, "You''re not to blame."


    "No one could have anticipated Qiu Tu being so astute..."


    "He had never seen Yanyan, yet he still spotted the flaws."


    Hearing this, Lai Shun said with some remorse, "If only I had not been merciful."


    "I should have listened to you, Director, and let the Scarlet Widow take out one of Qiu Tu''s confidants, disguise as that confidant, get close to Qiu Tu and directly assassinate him." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Listening to Lai Shun''s words, Yan Chen slowly shook his head and then said, "The outcome would likely be the same."


    "Qiu Tu is too cautious, and he''s strong too."


    "The Scarlet Widow excels in a one-strike kill following her disguise. Pretending to be one of Qiu Tu''s confidants, she might have been discovered before even getting close to him..."


    Having said this, Yan Chen let out a deep sigh, took a sip of his cold tea, and lamented, "Fate has its own will..."


    After his heartfelt sigh, Yan Chen put his teacup aside, placed his hands on the armrests of the sofa, and then slowly stood up, saying, "Well, whatever the case, now that the plan has failed, we should still deal with the aftermath."


    Upon hearing this, Lai Shun also stood up.

 Chapter 508 - 321_2

    As the two got up to leave, another Yanyan emerged from the relaxation area of Yan Chen''s office.


    This Yanyan, in temperament, somewhat resembled the character played by Larilo¡ªboth exuded such purity, such introversion... sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She looked like a piece of delicate glass, as if just a bit more pressure would completely shatter her.


    However, if one observed closely, it seemed as though they could glimpse the repressed madness beneath her calm exterior...


    Observing his own daughter, Yan Chen''s brow furrowed slightly, but he didn''t say anything, merely gestured for her to come over before they both left the office together.


    Upon stepping out of the office, for some unknown reason, Yan Chen was reminded of a secret talk he had with Tang Feifei a few days ago, representing the "Fengtian Faction"...


    ''Maybe... should I consider Tang Feifei''s proposal?''


    .....


    Even though Yan Chen had suffered several setbacks at the hands of Qiu Tu, his deeply rooted authority within the Investigation Bureau remained intact.


    So, when Yan Chen appeared at the crime scene accompanied by Lai Shun and Yanyan, the various middle and senior level officials couldn''t help themselves; they quickly opened up a pathway, saluted, and greeted him.


    Yan Chen, expressionless, made his way through the wall of people to the office door of Qiu Tu.


    Stopping, he slightly opened his drooping eyelids and looked up at the bloodied Qiu Tu who lay inside the office.


    Officials are born actors, charlatans. Even if he had orchestrated everything, his face still naturally showed an expression of surprise.


    He then pointed at Qiu Tu, looked around at the gathered crowd with suppressed rage on his face, and asked in a heavy voice, "What happened here?"


    "What''s happened to Minister Qiu?"


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei opened her mouth, wanting to explain.


    But... Yan Chen didn''t give her the chance.


    Yan Chen gestured to Deputy Director Zhao, who was in the midst of the crowd.


    Deputy Director Zhao hurriedly scurried over to Yan Chen''s side.


    Yan Chen gave him a cold look and scolded, "What are you doing watching the spectacle at a time like this?"


    "Get the medical team to check and treat Minister Qiu immediately."


    Clearly, compared to Secretary Bai, Director Zhao was indeed more than a notch below. So upon hearing Yan Chen''s instructions, he hastily managed an "Oh, oh," and then pulled out a communicator to start making arrangements.


    With his entrance, Yan Chen had easily and swiftly taken control of the situation with just a few sentences.


    After doing all this, he finally looked up at Tang Feifei, who was standing in front of him, and asked without any inflection in his voice, "Director Tang¡­ what exactly is going on here?"


    Tang Feifei tried to speak again.


    However, at that moment, Lai Shun, the action-oriented Deputy Director at Yan Chen''s side, suddenly exclaimed with surprise, "Wait a minute! Isn''t this the black market assassin, Scarlet Widow?"


    Having said that, he sidestepped Tang Feifei, quickly walked over to the already unconscious Scarlet Widow.


    He crouched down, examined her closely for a moment, and then turned to Yan Chen and said, "Bureau Chief, it is indeed the Scarlet Widow."


    After looking at the Scarlet Widow and then at Qiu Tu lying in a pool of blood, he pondered briefly before saying, "It seems... Minister Qiu''s recent accomplishments at the Political Department have been too outstanding, drawing the envy of some anti-Sanctuary personnel¡­"


    Tang Feifei:.....


    The middle and senior level officials present:.....


    Honestly, everyone knew Lai Shun was lying. After all, Qiu Tu had only just taken over the Political Department and hadn''t made any notable achievements or handled significant cases.


    And this assassin, from the current circumstances, was most likely arranged by the Yan Faction.


    But now... with Lai Shun claiming that Qiu Tu''s success in the Political Department had provoked retaliation from anti-Sanctuary personnel, could Tang Feifei and the others voice their opposition?


    Oppose, saying that Qiu Tu''s work was, in fact, not successful?


    Or outright say the assassin was arranged by Yan Chen?


    Don''t forget, Yan Chen had even brought his own daughter...


    Let''s not even mention that Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had no irrefutable evidence...


    --------


    After all, as the Deputy Chief of the Political Department, he did have a quota for killing.


    She couldn''t quite understand the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off her bath towel in one pull, and mounted her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation unlike any she had with Liu Fuping¡ª a strikingly different pleasure...


    That sharply contrasting enjoyment made her think several times about trying to use her shoulder to stop Qiu Tu''s fierce movements, to call for a pause.


    But Qiu Tu held her from the front with one hand while pressing on her shoulder with the other, leaving her like a fish out of water, floundering and unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude left Tang Feifei with practically no room to resist.


    Especially when... every time she was about to be overwhelmed and wanted to push Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean in close to her ear and whisper in a deep voice, "Director, do you want to break the agreement?"


    In that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, as someone who was always competitive from childhood, she obviously couldn''t accept such a unilateral "beating"!


    She thought several times about turning the tables!


    But... she was, after all, a woman of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for having agreed to Qiu Tu, for having agreed too hastily, throughout that day and night, she really didn''t reach out to touch Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She just silently exerted her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he needed to give her an unforgettable experience!


    And so, he clung to Tang Feifei, hardly giving her a chance to rest!

 Chapter 509 - 321_3

    So it was that after struggling until late into the night, the two embraced and fell into a deep sleep. At this time, in the 200 square meter rest area, with its various rooms, signs of their battle were already everywhere...


    As he started to drift off to sleep in a daze, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly formidable! And truly wild!


    If he had not advanced to become a Cataclysmic, his body greatly strengthened. Plus, he forbade Tang Feifei from taking the lead!


    He guessed... after this round, his waist was going to announce its retirement...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closed)]


    [1 and a half days (danger in the darkness)]


    ....


    The next day, with the first ray of sunlight in the early morning,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes, but merely lifting his arm, he felt soreness in his arm and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu sucked in a breath of cold air and then fully woke up amidst the soreness to check his arm, and only then belatedly remembered the splendid achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking about how hard he had worked yesterday, only knowing to bury his head and toil, and thinking about Tang Feifei, who was also nearly tormented to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his waist...


    Feeling that his waist would probably be out of commission from now on.


    With that thought, he moved his thigh slightly, and a wave of soreness rushed to his crown.


    ''Forget it, light another one for Yue Kuaye too, probably wasted as well....''


    Silently reflecting on the intensity of the previous day''s fight, Qiu Tu instinctively reached out beside him, and then realized that the space beside him was already empty, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Even though he knew that the two of them were just part of a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there should be some hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like disowning me!''


    Just as he was thinking this. Suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, her legs and body bare, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    She moved with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard silently speeding through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.


    She came to Qiu Tu''s side, bent down to place the medicine, and then said coolly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially when the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" came to fruition, the establishment of the Dongye State Council might be pushed forward again.


    By then, he would likely have to face the threat of Huang Shangzong directly.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu needed to enhance his position as much as possible before then and strengthen his own power,


    The several vice-ministers of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is from the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu is from the "Reformist Faction," Meng Sanzhai is from the "Fengtian Faction."


    According to the intelligence given by Yan Chen, aside from Meng Sanzhai, it seemed that none of them should be related to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, his gaze couldn''t help but turn to Ouyang Heng sitting beside him. Ouyang Heng belonged to the "Free Democracy Faction" and had even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four supported Qiu Tu! Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, of the four, it was Meng Sanzhai from the "Fengtian Faction" who was the most laid-back, only expressing his support for Qiu Tu and then hardly speaking at all.


    Not for nothing was it the Evil God, just opening its mouth made others feel comfortable.


    Beauty is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, us people of Zhejiang are born with tough bones


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly is what makes driving exciting, sister-in-law seems a bit impatient, ah


    Mountains are the extremely slow waves of geologic time


    Beauty? Not sure, but when the flowers are blooming so brightly, it would seem unromantic of me not to admire them


    Thinking this way, after successfully elevating Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu was no longer concerned with her


    ------


    "To comply with the procedures and to avoid long nights full of dreams, we immediately carried out the capture of Eagle after the Speaker officially took office,"


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him strangely, then asked, "Chief... you don''t seem surprised at all by this intelligence?"


    She asked with a hint of confusion, "Don''t you think this information is important?"


    "Just.... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has made such a great contribution; we really should give you a thorough commendation."


    "Once this case is cracked and all the members of the Lianzhen Special Combat Team are wiped out, I will recommend honors for you to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a deep, fox-like gaze and then said, "Chief... I''m not sure if it''s just a feeling."


    "I keep getting the sense... you seem to know about the Lianzhen Special Combat Team ahead of me?"


    Upon hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu simply leaned on the chair, responding with a faint smile, "Do I?"


    "Then....."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Guan Xiao''s eyes widened slightly at Qiu Tu''s response.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao had developed the ability and habit of collecting information at any time, making her particularly sensitive to certain emotional cues.


    Thus, when she finished reporting on the Lianzhen Special Combat Team and saw that Qiu Tu showed neither shock nor anxiety, she was keenly aware of something unusual.


    It''s just that, while her intuition told her Qiu Tu probably knew the intelligence, her rational mind did not believe it at all.


    After all, her report was the result of a spy''s hard work, risking life and limb to convey it.


    How could Qiu Tu have known about it?


    Then, just at that moment


    -------


    There was one third-tier Cataclysmic, four second-tier Cataclysmics, and fifteen first-tier Cataclysmics.


    So, when she finished reporting on the Lianzhen Special Warfare Squad, Qiu Tu did not show shock or anxiety, and she was keenly aware of something unusual.


    It''s just that, although her intuition told her Qiu Tu probably knew the intelligence, her rational mind did not believe it at all. Her gut told her Qiu Tu probably knew the intelligence, but rationally, she couldn''t believe it.

 Chapter 510 - 322: The Price of Yan Chen (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Qiu Tu seemed to have completely locked horns with Director Zhao today.


    He glanced at Deputy Director Lai Shun, but didn''t respond, instead shifting his gaze back to Director Zhao. Then, with a pale face, he spoke up, "Director Zhao, may I ask if it was you who welcomed me into the Bureau Chief''s office yesterday?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, sweat was about to break out on Director Zhao''s forehead.


    He found himself to be in quite a miserable situation.


    It was clearly a struggle between several high-level officials, so why was it all revolving around him?


    He didn''t usually stand out this much...


    With these thoughts in mind, Director Zhao''s gaze began to drift.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, then at Yan Chen, before he cautiously said, "It... it should be, I guess?"


    When Qiu Tu heard this, he endured the pain from his wound and continued to ask, "Then, Director Zhao, did you also see Miss Yanyan?"


    Yan Chen already knew what Qiu Tu wanted to ask at this point.


    He clenched his fist and placed it by his mouth, coughing loudly all of a sudden.


    Director Zhao received the signal from Yan Chen, knowing that there must be a trap hidden in this question.


    But... he was clueless about the whole situation and had no idea what the trap was. Therefore, he didn''t know how to answer at that moment.


    He looked at Qiu Tu, then at Yan Chen, but the words were stuck in his throat.


    Seeing Director Zhao''s incompetent manner, Yan Chen''s drooping eyelids almost closed completely.


    He sighed deeply in his heart and then took the initiative to take over the conversation.


    He spoke slowly, "Qiu Tu... Yanyan arrived in Xinjie City yesterday morning."


    "Since arriving in Xinjie City, she has been by my side all the time."


    "I still recognize my own daughter."


    "As for... the assassin who tried to kill you, I trust what you and Director Tang saw with your own eyes: She must have deliberately disguised herself as my daughter to get close to you."


    "Although this matter has nothing to do with my daughter, but... I still apologize on behalf of my daughter to you..."


    Meanwhile, the medical department of the Investigation Bureau had finally arrived at the scene.


    The physicians were startled by the sight of all the blood and Qiu Tu lying in a pool of it.


    They hurried over and began to examine Qiu Tu''s injuries.


    Soon after, they whispered to each other with grave expressions and started bringing over various medical instruments, attending to stop Qiu Tu''s bleeding.


    Seeing this, the mid-level and high-level officials present no longer doubted that Qiu Tu''s injuries were feigned.


    They exchanged glances and then involuntarily looked towards Yan Chen''s back, their eyes filled with incomprehension and empathetic sorrow...


    To be honest, in their hearts, Yan Chen was ruthless, but he still had certain limits.


    Even though he had conflicts with Qiu Tu and Qiu Tu had made him lose face several times, but... political fights were just that, resorting to assassinations was taking it too far.


    At this moment, Yan Chen also felt those unusual gazes from behind.


    He sighed quietly in his heart.


    If he had other choices, why would he resort to this last resort?


    Lately, he had meticulously reviewed all recent events.


    Maybe because he had finally pinpointed Qiu Tu as a primary suspect, the more Yan Chen investigated, the more he realized the role Qiu Tu played in a series of events.


    He found... that many problems in recent months seemed to be deliberately incited by Qiu Tu.


    Including the downfall of the Qin Family, the rift between him and Jia Shu, and the failure of his Devouring Larilo... each incident seemed to bear the shadow of Qiu Tu.


    It was as if each of his moves had been tightly calculated by Qiu Tu.


    Truth be told, it had been years since Yan Chen had faced such a formidable opponent.


    And what chilled him more was... he realized all this far too late.


    He had given Qiu Tu far too many opportunities to grow, allowing Qiu Tu to become gradually uncontrollable and unstoppable.


    The minister of the Political Department, a top-three powerful existence in the Investigation Bureau, the head of the Bureau''s intelligence system.


    This position was indeed too important, so important that even Yan Chen had to handle it with caution.


    Moreover... Qiu Tu was not just holding an empty title.


    Above him, he had the high-level protection of the Sanctuary, in the middle, there was Liu Xiongyuan, with Tang Feifei cooperating with him, and below, dozens of confidants risked their lives for him! Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Fully fledged!" This was Yan Chen''s current assessment of Qiu Tu.


    Therefore, Yan Chen truly felt somewhat powerless against Qiu Tu now.


    Furthermore, after analyzing and comparing both sides of the conflict, he found... at least at the current stage, Qiu Tu''s power would continue to expand, and he was almost powerless to reverse the situation in the short term.


    He had the intention to make amends with Qiu Tu.


    But...firstly, there was finally news about his wife''s clone, which seemed to have been moved by Qiu Tu using Master Qin Si''s hand and then kept hidden and pampered in a golden house. For Yan Chen, this was something unacceptable.


    Secondly... Yan Chen also understood Qiu Tu''s nature quite well. To put it nicely, he was someone who returned favors and revenged grudges; to put it bluntly, he bore grudges!


    He had attempted to put Qiu Tu to death several times, scheming against him.


    Plus, with Qiu Tu''s cautious nature: even if he said he would not pursue the first matter, Qiu Tu probably wouldn''t believe it.


    So, after much consideration, Yan Chen still set his heart on killing: Since he couldn''t solve the issue with conventional methods, rather than dragging it out and letting the situation slowly turn for the worse, allowing Qiu Tu to gradually erode his power, it was better to strike decisively!


    At least to cut the chaos with a swift blade and kill Qiu Tu! Then deal with the aftermath slowly.


    Although he knew that after Qiu Tu''s death, the people behind Qiu Tu were likely to be enraged or seek revenge on his behalf.

 Chapter 511 - 322: The Price of Yan Chen (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    But... politics is cruel, and the rule of politics is the exchange of interests.


    A dead person can no longer bring benefits to anyone, as long as he pays enough, he can always slowly quell this matter.


    After all, after his failure to attain the position of Deputy Speaker, he was doomed not to rise in rank for the next few years, whether it was enduring five or seven years, or even ten, he would endure.


    After all, his Cataclysmic ability gave him an incredibly long life.


    He would always last until the day when this incident was over, and he could rise again.


    But for Qiu Tu... once dead, there''s no second chance.


    Moreover, once Qiu Tu was dead, the relatively inexperienced Tang Feifei would no longer be able to threaten him. He could then rest easy as the local tyrant of Xinjie City....


    So, after much consideration, Yan Chen felt that flipping the table and taking action to kill Qiu Tu would be more beneficial than detrimental.


    Therefore, he eventually took action.


    He even had Lai Shun hire the Scarlet Widow, an assassin capable of killing Third Order Cataclysmics.


    It''s just a pity that... everything seems to have gone against his wishes.


    Qiu Tu did not die, he survived. And now he began to incessantly counterattack, seizing upon the several loopholes in his plan...


    For a moment, Yan Chen couldn''t help but feel a sense of annoyance in his heart: If only he had known... he would have hired an assassin capable of killing a Fourth Order. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How did he let Qiu Tu survive...


    Meanwhile, just as Yan Chen was thinking in this way, Qiu Tu, whose bleeding had finally been stopped by the medical team, spoke up.


    He looked at Yan Chen and then said, "Director, I definitely believe what you said."


    "Since you claim that Yanyan has always been by your side, and that the Yanyan I saw yesterday was indeed real, then I believe that the Yanyan I saw yesterday was the real Yanyan."


    Qiu Tu''s words seemed to accept Yan Chen''s explanation, but anyone could hear the insincerity in them.


    As expected, after saying this, Qiu Tu raised his arm, pointed towards the unconscious Scarlet Widow, and said, "But, Director... there must be a reason for this assassin to kill me, right?"


    "I, a newly appointed Head of the Political Department, haven''t done anything yet to provoke an assassin from the black market. Isn''t that a bit unreasonable?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen''s eyelids drooped as if in deep thought.


    After a moment, he turned his back and spoke solemnly, "It must be the United Front...."


    "You have been eradicating the United Front lately, and you must have finally drawn their attention."


    "So... they sent an assassin after you.


    The Scarlet Widow used to be a member of the United Front, only later did she leave the United Front and become a common black market assassin. But in fact... she has always maintained a slender connection with the United Front."


    If I''m not mistaken, she has most likely been commissioned by the United Front to launch this attack on you."


    As he said this, Yan Chen opened his eyes, his murky pupils fixed on Qiu Tu as he slowly spoke, "Qiu Tu, I will definitely give you a satisfying resolution to this matter."


    "Your blood will not have been shed in vain."


    He probably knew that it was no longer possible not to offer something up at this point.


    So Yan Chen said, "I remember that in the report you submitted yesterday, you found that the United Front has been operating a black market base in Xinjie City for many years."


    "There are as many as several hundred members of the United Front entrenched there."


    "Previously, I considered that Dongye State had just been established, and stability was paramount, so I did not agree to your eradication plan."


    "Now... I approve it."


    "It doesn''t matter if you''re injured, you can designate an officer to lead the team and then dispatch troops from the Special Service Department to surround and suppress them."


    Everyone present was shrewd. How could they not understand Yan Chen''s words.


    Put simply, Yan Chen was offering his price to shut Qiu Tu up: the credit for taking down a United Front base.


    Moreover, the operation to eradicate this United Front base would be managed by Yan Chen, but the credit would be distributed by Qiu Tu.


    Honestly, the condition can only be considered fair, not extremely generous.


    But Yan Chen had no other chips to play in this matter...


    So, the middle and high-level officials present didn''t think the aggressive Qiu Tu would accept.


    Then, unexpectedly, something surprising happened.


    Upon hearing Yan Chen''s offer, Qiu Tu smiled....


    He nodded and said, "Then I thank you, Director."


    "I''ll have my secretary deliver the list of personnel for this operation to Director Zhao later."


    "This operation should be carried out swiftly, not slowly. It''s best to act tonight."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu paused, then added, "After all... the assassin failed to kill me and didn''t return to report, which could easily alert the other party."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu actually agreed to the condition, a flash of surprise crossed Yan Chen''s murky eyes.


    He instinctively felt that something was amiss, as if he had fallen into a trap set by Qiu Tu. However... his mind raced, but he couldn''t figure out what Qiu Tu''s scheme was.


    On the contrary, having witnessed the whole assassination process, he knew that Qiu Tu wasn''t really injured; the wounds were self-inflicted afterwards.


    Could it be... that Qiu Tu also knew that continuing to stalemate would lead nowhere?


    Maybe he didn''t really get hurt, so he decided to accept the best offer?


    With that thought in mind, although Yan Chen still felt uneasy, now that Qiu Tu had come forward voluntarily, and since it was indeed a plausible explanation, he temporarily suppressed his doubts and agreed....


    And so, a huge storm ended in an anticlimactic way.


    As the middle and high-level officials dispersed, they shared Yan Chen''s confusion, but since both parties had settled, they had no reason to delve deeper. Thus, they left the scene with their questions unanswered....

 Chapter 512 - 322: The Price of Yan Chen (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    At this moment, Qiu Tu, having finished bandaging his wound and stopping the bleeding, sat on the couch with the support of the three women.


    After helping Qiu Tu sit down, Tang Feifei''s face was emotionless as she commented, "This isn''t like your style."


    Hearing what Tang Feifei said, Qiu Tu laughed.


    This really wasn''t his style...


    If not for the "Crisis Intuition" alert that had given him ample time to think and research, he might not have accepted the terms and would have chosen to continue biting off a chunk of Yan Chen''s flesh!


    The matter started from this afternoon...


    After realizing that there was something wrong with Yanyan, who had been in contact with him over the past two days, Qiu Tu had also harbored many doubts in his heart.


    Because he found that during his two encounters with Yanyan, his "Golden Finger" known as "Crisis Intuition" hadn''t been triggered.


    This made him question whether he had misanalyzed the situation: maybe... that Yanyan was the real Yanyan?


    The situation took a turn after work started in the afternoon.


    At that time, Qiu Tu was listening to a briefing from Section Chief Wang of the Intelligence Section.


    Suddenly, during Section Chief Wang''s briefing, multiple "Crisis Warnings" popped up in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was alarmed at the moment, thinking Section Chief Wang was up to harm him.


    But after a closer look, Qiu Tu realized that was not the case...


    Because the "Crisis Report" was not about Section Chief Wang; it was about Yan Chen and the Scarlet Widow...


    "Crisis Intuition triggered! Generating Crisis Report!"


    "Your superior Yan Chen is currently making final confirmations with his assassin, the Scarlet Widow."


    "After believing they had preliminarily gained your trust, the Scarlet Widow has decided to make a move on you tonight."


    "Do not underestimate the power of a professional assassin, and do not recklessly endanger yourself. Your defensive capabilities and the defensive Cataclysmic treasures on you are no different from paper mach¨¦ to her."


    "Also, do not think of faking death to frame and probe Yan Chen; he has long decided to pin everything on the United Front. In fact... he is even prepared to use a United Front Base''s information, which he has been keeping close to his chest."


    "So, please be extraordinarily vigilant and do not capsize in the gutter!"


    After seeing the "Crisis Intuition" alert, Qiu Tu immediately understood why there was no warning from "Crisis Intuition" during this morning''s encounter with the assassin.


    It was most likely that the assassin was only there to "scout" and test Qiu Tu without any intention to kill.


    And regardless of how Qiu Tu acted, it wouldn''t have affected the final outcome.


    But tonight''s meeting was different.


    The assassin was genuinely prepared to take action, and any misstep by Qiu Tu could lead to his demise.


    Especially since Qiu Tu had figured out the assassin''s identity in the morning and overconfidently thought he had seen through everything, acting as bait.


    Facing this professional assassin, he would have likely not escaped death. That''s why "Crisis Intuition" was triggered.


    To put it simply: in the first two encounters, Qiu Tu faced no life-threatening danger; but in the last encounter, his life was at risk.


    This time''s "Crisis Intuition" not only confirmed Qiu Tu''s suspicions, but it also brought an important piece of information: Yan Chen actually held the information of a United Front Base and was even planning to frame the United Front for Qiu Tu''s "death."


    Honestly, this plan coincided quite nicely with Qiu Tu''s...


    After all, Qiu Tu was also planning to kill Yan Chen and frame the United Front for it.


    Thus, due to this bizarre twist of fate, Qiu Tu studied the "Crisis Intuition" alert once more very carefully.


    Then... inspiration struck, and he suddenly realized... all this could be used to his advantage!


    Since Yan Chen planned to blame it all on the United Front, why shouldn''t Qiu Tu go with the flow and turn the fake scenario into a "real" one? S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    --------

 Chapter 513 - 323

    Qiu Tu''s idea was simple, yet audacious.


    "Yan Chen is planning to claim the Scarlet Widow was an assassin sent by the United Front, right?"


    Then he would go along with him, accept this "setting," and then "magnify" it.


    The United Front wanting to bring chaos to Xinjie City by sending an assassin to kill Qiu Tu, the Head of the Political Department, indeed sounded plausible.


    But then again, if the United Front could be so heartless as to attempt an assassination within the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau...


    Well, after their attempt on Qiu Tu failed, and Yan Chen''s forces destroyed their hideout, wouldn''t it be reasonable for them in desperation to send an elite Special Warfare Squad the very next day to assassinate Yan Chen?


    Yan Chen had stated in front of everyone the previous day that the assassin was sent by the United Front.


    So the next day, if he was attacked by the United Front and the captured assassins were all its members, who else had any right to question it?


    After all, the victim himself confirmed that these assassins were from the United Front.


    Moreover, it was exactly Yan Chen''s framing that made the entire incident form a perfect closed loop.


    ¡ªTo prove that the Lianzhen Special Combat Team was under Qiu Tu''s command, one had to prove that the two assassination attempts weren''t orchestrated by the same organization or person, which requires proving first that the Scarlet Widow wasn''t sent by the United Front.


    To prove that the Scarlet Widow wasn''t sent by the United Front, one had to find out first that the Scarlet Widow was sent by Yan Chen and Lai Shun.


    And once it was found out that the Scarlet Widow was sent by Yan Chen and Lai Shun...


    Then why the hell bother investigating further? If Yan Chen made the first move, couldn''t Qiu Tu fight back? S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In fact, for the big shots in the region and the Sanctuaries, perhaps they could have guessed much of the situation just by glancing at it.


    But since Qiu Tu had made a solid front in public while privately it was a "counterattack," they were most likely to turn a blind eye.


    This was why Qiu Tu was so aggressive today, but after forcing Yan Chen to acknowledge that the Scarlet Widow was a United Front member and after obtaining compensation, he immediately backed off.


    With Yan Chen''s personal confirmation and tonight''s action, that was enough.


    Their grudge would be settled tomorrow!


    Thinking this way... Qiu Tu didn''t heal his own wounds with his ability just because he had achieved his goal.


    He first looked towards Tan Huimin, who stood by his side looking at him worriedly, then he said, "Huimin, go to the Political Department now and tell Chen Feng about what just happened. Then tell him that I want him to lead the team tonight."


    "Afterwards, let him pick a few stable, capable first or second-class investigators to participate in tonight''s opportunity, for a bit of glory."


    "Yan Chen has been able to keep that United Front base under wraps for so long, it definitely isn''t a simple little base, and the credit would certainly not be small."


    "Once they''ve had their moment of glory, it will be good to promote them when they come back."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu seemed to think of something, looked at Tan Huimin again, and added, "Tonight, you don''t need to follow me, you should go too. Join the operation as my special envoy. When you''re back, I''ll promote you."


    Since breaking free from Zheng Tao''s shadow, Tan Huimin had gained a certain understanding of the various situations within the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Possibly due to her status, what she heard most was Qiu Tu''s generosity and protectiveness towards his subordinates.


    She frequently encountered his protectiveness, and now... she had also witnessed his generosity.


    Though she had no great aspirations for a position, no one disliked progress. On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin agreed cheerfully and hurried downstairs to find Chen Feng.


    Tang Feifei had been watching Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin''s interaction the entire time.


    Her intuition as a woman made her keenly aware of the ambiguous relationship between them.


    And knowing Tan Huimin''s status, she gave Qiu Tu a cold look and reminded him, "She has a husband."


    At this moment, Qiu Tu, who had just finished with the urgent matters at hand, had his attention returned to the bone-deep injury on his body.


    He didn''t notice Tang Feifei''s emotions, so he casually said, "Her husband is already dead."


    Tang Feifei:.....


    "So, the two of you played such a big game just to be together?"


    Qiu Tu:? ?


    What''s all this about!


    "Pfft~" Su Xiaowan, who had been spectating the whole time, couldn''t help but laugh out loud.


    Clearly, she also realized that Tang Feifei was intentionally causing trouble!


    Qiu Tu glared at Su Xiaowan, the silly girl, and then raised his head to look at Tang Feifei again.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei was taking a Cataclysmic Potion for treating wounds out of one of her cards, her cold profile betraying no emotion.


    After a while, she took out two bottles, one red and one blue, then looked at Qiu Tu and said, "Both of these bottles contain ''Water of Life.'' Choose one."


    Qiu Tu curiously asked, "So, is there any difference between the two?"


    Tang Feifei glanced coolly at Qiu Tu and said, "No difference, only that the red one has extra ingredients that will make it hurt more."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu pointed at the blue bottle and said, "Then I want that one."


    On hearing this, Tang Feifei uncapped the blue bottle, unwound the bandages on Qiu Tu''s body, and began to apply the Potion to the wound.


    You have to say, Tang Feifei''s Potion was indeed good, cool and refreshing upon application, and the wound was visibly healing at an incredible rate, without any pain at all.


    Amazed by the miracle of the Potion, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but ask curiously, "By the way, if it''s a healing Potion, why would you deliberately add something to the red bottle to cause pain? Is it specifically for prisoners?"


    Tang Feifei replied indifferently, "Not really... because the ordinary ''Water of Life'' makes one pass out when applied."


    Qiu Tu:? ?


    As Tang Feifei''s words were halfway through, Qiu Tu already felt his head getting dizzy. By the time she finished her sentence, he had collapsed into Tang Feifei''s soft embrace¡­

 Chapter 514 - 323_2

    ```


    ....


    Qiu Tu woke up just after 9 p.m.


    By the time he woke up, tonight''s "Operation to Eradicate United Front Base" had already ended.


    He hadn''t guessed wrong, the achievement of being able to be controlled by Yan Chen was indeed a significant one.


    In this operation, they captured more than 300 formal and peripheral members of the United Front. Among them were 90 ordinary members, 10 lieutenants, 3 captains, and 1 major.


    Additionally, they seized seven or eight boxes of light and heavy weapons, nearly a warehouse full of ammunition and medical supplies.


    According to Chen Feng''s conjecture and report afterward, this was likely a material transit point for the United Front, mainly purchasing ammunition and medical supplies in the Planning Area.


    Yan Chen probably had known the location and information of this base for a long time, but she had decided to let it develop further, coupled with the desire to use this accomplishment to cultivate her confidants, so she didn''t act immediately.


    As a result, unexpectedly, Qiu Tu and his confidants reaped the benefits.


    In the official records, this was a base discovered and thoroughly investigated by Qiu Tu, with the entire operation being overseen by Qiu Tu, commanded by Chen Feng, audited by Tan Huimin, and completed with teams led by Ding Xiaoliu, Li Xian, and others.


    As for the Special Service detectives of Yan Chen''s group who actually exerted the effort, sweated, got injured, or even gave their lives, they were barely recorded.


    This is... cruel, inhumane, and dark politics.


    Qiu Tu, having woken up from a good night''s sleep and unexpectedly gained so much credit, felt that his injuries also seemed much improved.


    Therefore, he didn''t go back to sleep but began to continue with his arrangements...


    The eradication of the United Front base was merely the interest for Yan Chen''s attack on him, and Qiu Tu was about to collect the principal from Yan Chen...


    .....


    Late at night.


    In Qiu Tu''s 9th-floor resting room.


    Qiu Tu put on his mask, changed his clothes, and once again tossed the quaint coin he had received from Zhao Ji.


    The coin spun in the air for a long time before gradually transforming into the likeness of Wu Yun, the captain of the United Front''s Special Forces Team 3. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This United Front colonel was obviously not in good shape.


    His face was gloomy, displaying anger and unwillingness.


    However, his mood wasn''t due to Qiu Tu, so upon seeing Qiu Tu, he suppressed his rage and irritability, and respectfully gave Qiu Tu a rather awkward salute before saying, "Divine Envoy, may I ask why you have summoned me in the dead of night? Is there a mission?"


    Hearing Wu Yun''s question, Qiu Tu said in a deep voice, "Colonel Wu, is your grave expression because of the destruction of the United Front base?"


    Wu Yun was surprised that Qiu Tu, as the Divine Envoy, knew such a confidential matter, hence his astonished look at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu wore a silver mask, hiding all expressions and giving no information away.


    Wu Yun nodded and said, "Yes, Divine Envoy."


    He continued with a face full of resentment, "Just recently, the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau launched a cleansing operation against us!"


    "We lost over three hundred brothers!"


    "Those who were captured, were captured; those who were killed, were killed!"


    "What''s more troublesome is that they left quite a few survivors. If any of them betray the organization, our network in Xinjie City could be compromised!"


    Hearing this


    -------------


    After all, as the deputy head of the Political Department, she did have a quota for killing.


    She was somewhat puzzled by the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable....


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off her bath towel in one swift motion, and pounced on her!


    This time, Tang Feifei again experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never felt before....


    That utterly different kind of pleasure made her want to push against Qiu Tu with her shoulder to try and call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu was holding her from the front with one hand and pressing down on her shoulder with the other, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially when... every time she was about to break, wanting to push Qiu Tu off, he would lean into her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break our agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, being strong-willed from a young age, she, of course, could not accept such a one-sided "thrashing!"


    Sometimes she wished to overthrow the oppressor and sing!


    But... she was after all a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily! But in that day and night, she really didn''t initiate contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She was just silently exerting effort!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really did put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew that to conquer this woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung to Tang Feifei, hardly giving her a chance to rest!


    And so, they struggled until late at night, and finally fell asleep in each other''s arms, by which time the over 200-square-foot resting room, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was about to drift off into sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was indeed strong and wild!


    If it weren''t for his ascension to Cataclysmic, which greatly strengthened his body, and the ban on Tang Feifei taking the lead!


    Probably... his back would have retired after this bout....


    [4 days and a half (Yin Caimei case closing time)]


    [1 day and a half (Danger in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, with the first rays of dawn.


    Qiu Tu slowly awoke from deep sleep.


    He instinctively wanted to rub his eyes but only managed to raise his arm before he felt a soreness in his arms and back!


    ```

 Chapter 515 - 323_3

    ```


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu sharply inhaled, then became fully alert amidst the sour pain, checking his arm before belatedly recalling the glorious achievements from yesterday''s grueling day and night.


    Thinking of his hardworking self from the day before, heads down and toiling away, and of Tang Feifei, equally close to breaking down from the grind, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Fearing that his back might never function again.


    With that thought, he slightly moved his thigh, and the sour pain shot straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, might as well light another one for Yue Kua, probably finished as well...''


    Quietly lamenting over the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, only to find that the place next to him was already empty, leaving only the faint scent of jasmine flowers...


    Although he well knew that their relationship was nothing more than a transaction, in that moment, Qiu Tu still felt somewhat disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no merit, there should be some acknowledgment for the hard work, right?''


    ''This is just too much like turning one''s back and not recognizing someone!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Barefoot and barely dressed, Tang Feifei came striding in with a bowl of medicine. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her legs were long, her figure with curves that seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    Every step she took as she walked carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily speeding through the jungle, each step full of strength and tempo.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, she bent down to place the medicine, and said icily, "Drink up. You worked hard last night."


    Especially since... the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Project" might be finalized soon, possibly advancing the inauguration of the Dongye State Council.


    When that happens, he would very likely face the threat of Huang Shangzong.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to improve his position and strengthen his power before then,


    Of the Organizational Department''s several deputy directors, Zhen Lie belonged to the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu to the Reformist Faction, and Meng Sanzhai to the Fengtian Faction.


    According to intelligence from Yan Chen, besides Meng Sanzhai, none seemed related to Qiu Tu.


    As he thought this, he couldn''t help but turn his gaze to Ouyang Heng sitting beside him. Ouyang Heng was from the Free Democracy Faction and even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... did all four of them support Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, of these four men, it was Meng Sanzhai of the Fengtian Faction who was the most indifferent. Apart from showing his support for Qiu Tu, he hardly spoke at all.


    Truly worthy of an Evil God, one word and you make others feel comfortable.


    Lust is a scraping knife, but it is well-known that we people of Zhejiang are born with hard bones


    Gripping the steering wheel firmly makes driving thrilling, sister seems a bit too impatient though


    A mountain is a slow wave from geological ages


    Lust? I''m not sure, it''s just that the flowers are in full bloom, and it would seem like I lack sophistication if I don''t admire them


    Thinking this way, after successfully securing Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer interacted with Larilo


    ------


    "To comply with the process and to avoid any potential complications, we captured Eagle immediately after the Speaker was officially in position,"


    ---------


    After getting Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him strangely, then inquired, "Sir... you don''t seem the least bit surprised by this intelligence?"


    She asked with a hint of confusion, "Don''t you think this intelligence is important?"


    "There''s... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has done a great job, indeed deserving of lavish praise."


    "Once this case is cracked and all the United Front''s special combat team members are eliminated, I will commend you to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a deep look with her foxy eyes and then said, "Sir... I don''t know if it''s just an illusion."


    "I always feel... like you knew about the United Front Special Combat Team before I did?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair and responded with a light smile, "Is that so?"


    "Then...."


    "You could be right."


    Qiu Tu''s words made Guan Xiao''s eyes widen slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao has long had the ability and habit of collecting information at any moment. This gave her a particularly keen sensitivity to certain emotional cues.


    So, when she didn''t detect any shock or urgency in Qiu Tu''s reaction after relaying the intelligence on the United Front Special Warfare Squad, she keenly sensed something was off.


    But although her intuition told her that Qiu Tu was likely aware of the intelligence, her rationality wouldn''t believe it.


    After all, this intelligence was conveyed at great risk to life by a spy suffering untold hardships.


    How could Qiu Tu have known about it?


    Then, at that moment


    -------


    Among them, there was one third-order Cataclysmic, four second-order Cataclysmics, and fifteen first-order Cataclysmics.


    "Once this case is cracked and all the United Front''s special combat team members are eliminated, I will commend you to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a deep look with her foxy eyes and then said, "Sir... I don''t know if it''s just an illusion."


    "I always feel... like you knew about the United Front Special Combat Team before I did?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair and responded with a light smile, "Is that so?"


    "Then...."


    "You could be right."


    Qiu Tu''s words made Guan Xiao''s eyes widen slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao has long had the ability and habit of collecting information at any moment. This gave her a particularly keen sensitivity to certain emotional cues.


    So, when she didn''t detect any shock or urgency in Qiu Tu''s reaction after relaying the intelligence on the United Front Special Warfare Squad, she keenly sensed something was off.


    But although her intuition told her that Qiu Tu was likely aware of the intelligence, her rationality wouldn''t believe it.


    After all, this intelligence was conveyed at great risk to life by a spy suffering untold hardships.


    ```

 Chapter 517 - 324: Assassination and Counter-Assassination! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then still answered the call.


    Once he picked up the phone, Guan Xiao''s somewhat saucy voice came through from the receiver, "Chief~~ I have important intelligence to report to you!"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s heart moved slightly, roughly guessing Guan Xiao''s intention.


    He said indifferently, "Speak."


    Guan Xiao said with a giggle, "Chief~~ The spy I arranged just obtained some intelligence."


    "Speak.... The United Front Special Combat Team has been gathering since this morning and lying in ambush together inside a teahouse."


    "The purpose is to prepare an ambush against Director Yan."


    "You see...."


    From Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu actually knew that this woman, Guan Xiao, could be used.


    After all, Guan Xiao didn''t show the slightest concern for Yan Chen, nor any anxiety over the matter.


    On the contrary, because she had aligned herself with Qiu Tu''s camp, she even seemed somewhat happy about the disaster.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu first praised Guan Xiao, "Section Chief Guan''s spy placement is indeed impressive."


    "To obtain such hidden information."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu''s tone changed, "However, there''s no need to report it to Director Yan."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao, believing she understood Qiu Tu''s intention, responded, "Okay~~ I understand, Chief."


    Qiu Tu heard this, but chuckled and interrupted her, "No. You don''t understand."


    "The reason I don''t want you to report to Director Yan is... I''ve already reported to him."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao on the phone was visibly taken aback, somewhat confused about what Qiu Tu had actually done.


    But now, Qiu Tu clearly didn''t have the time to answer her questions.


    So without waiting for Guan Xiao to ask, Qiu Tu reminded her, "Section Chief Guan, have your spy pay attention to their safety. It''s best to have them wear some conspicuous identification to avoid accidents during combat."


    Then he hung up the phone....


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu looked to Qin Shuman beside him and said, "It seems we can confirm it. The United Front has truly been fooled."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman nodded, then said, "Then I''ll relay the word below, and everything will proceed as planned."


    Qiu Tu nodded, then continued, "That Third Order Cataclysmic is up to you."


    "The four Second Order Cataclysmics and fifteen First-Order Catastrophers are mine."


    Qin Shuman nodded at his words.


    Following that, the two left the civilian house and started to move separately!


    .....


    Outside the window, the autumn rain was misty, wetting the ground and bringing with it a hint of coolness.


    Yan Chen''s motorcade, after a 20-minute ride, finally slowly drove into the surveillance radius of the teahouse....


    The moment Wu Yun saw Yan Chen''s motorcade in the distance, he "shush" stood up.


    Being tall and burly, combined with the terrifying scar on his face, a fierce aura rushed forth instantly!


    Looking outside, he called out to the Yellow-Toothed Old Man in the room, "Old Huang!"


    Old Huang got up with a chuckle and stood by the window, making a few hand gestures towards the ground.


    Patrolling Special Service Detectives on the street, with such conspicuous movements by Old Huang, would have noticed even if they were inattentive.


    Thus, at that moment, they harbored a sense of foreboding!


    Some drew their guns, some dashed toward the teahouse, while others hurriedly took out their communicators, wanting to report to their superiors.


    But it was all too late!


    When the first vehicle in Yan Chen''s motorcade drove past the window of the teahouse.


    Suddenly, hundreds of steel caltrops appeared out of nowhere on that section of the road!


    The next second, Yan Chen''s motorcade''s tires mercilessly rolled over these traps!


    Accompanied by sharp tearing noises, the tires were instantly punctured and burst! Vehicles out of control began to spin wildly on the road!


    The leading vehicle had no chance to avoid, and the following vehicles were even more unprepared, initiating a chain collision!


    The loud clashing of metals, the splattering of shattered glass, and the warping of the vehicles created a heart-stopping scene of disaster.


    Seeing this, Wu Yun at the teahouse was excited!


    As a Cataclysmic delighted in witnessing destruction and disaster,


    Now seeing so many cars crashing into each other, he excitedly burst into laughter! Then he picked up the light howitzer beside him, skillfully loaded it with a shell, aimed it at the center of the chaos on the road, and pulled the trigger!


    The next second, a loud "boom" resonated as the shell whistled out, but it veered off course, crashing hard into a restaurant by the roadside. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In a flash, the restaurant''s walls collapsed under the impact of the shell, and flames erupted instantly, devouring everything around, turning the already chaotic street into something resembling an abyss!


    "Hahaha!"


    Seeing his shot miss, Wu Yun didn''t care in the slightest; he laughed wildly, then tossed aside the light howitzer and leaped down the building, rushing toward Yan Chen''s overturned motorcade!


    At this time, Yellow-Haired on the second floor shook his head slightly.


    He aimed at the chain collision of vehicles, loaded his carefully polished shell into the light individual mortar!


    The next second! A shell traced a perfect arc and landed on a vehicle!


    With a loud "bang!" fire rolled out! Explosions, screams, and gunfire composed a hellish symphony on this formerly quiet street!


    Under the assault of heavy firepower and 20 Cataclysmics, Yan Chen''s motorcade was almost completely annihilated without mounting an effective resistance.


    Meanwhile, the Lianzhen Special Combat Team, apart from two First-Order Catastrophers who were lightly wounded by stray bullets, suffered virtually no injuries.

 Chapter 518 - 324: Assassination and Counter-Assassination! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    2 minutes later, Wu Yun, Yellow-Haired, Cat-Petting Girl, Young Man with Earrings, and Yellow-Toothed Old Man gathered on the roadside that resembled purgatory.


    Wu Yun touched his head with his fan-sized hand and then "buzzed," "Is the target dead?"


    "Then, did you see a Third Order Cataclysmic? Who killed it?"


    Hearing his words, Yellow-Haired "hehe" chuckled and said, "Colonel, who else could it be? Of course, it was me."


    "Under the cannon fire, all beings are equal. No matter if it''s a Third Order Cataclysmic or a Second Order, getting hit means serious injury!"


    "Another blast means death!"


    "I fired three rounds at the lead car! Plus, it was right at the center of the explosion of three vehicles!" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Not to mention a Third Order Cataclysmic, even a Pseudo Fourth-Order from the Sanctuary, if caught off guard and unable to ''Level Up'' in time, might be critically injured!"


    "So, the target is likely to have turned into ash by now."


    Listening to him, the Yellow-Toothed Old Man next to him also "hehe" laughed a couple of times, then took over the conversation, "I just activated my Spiritual Vision and took a special look."


    "There was indeed a Second and Third Order Changer in the main car."


    "When hit by the cannon fire, it tried to defend using its full power."


    "But after two rounds, it couldn''t handle it anymore."


    "The subsequent explosion directly carried it away."


    Hearing what Yellow-Toothed Old Man and Yellow-Haired said, Wu Yun also felt relieved.


    He said, "Good. Then the mission is completed! Let''s retreat!"


    As he spoke, he looked around and then instructed, "Follow me, let''s start retreating along the route I told you about last night!"


    After saying that, he led everyone to begin their retreat!


    Four Second Order Cataclysmics next to him, along with over a dozen First Order, quickly followed suit.


    They ran along the retreat route, just reaching an old house.


    Suddenly!


    Just then "Boom!" a massive explosion resounded!


    Fierce flames erupted from the ground, ruthlessly devouring the area. The special warfare squad members who happened to be in this location were too slow to dodge and were instantly engulfed in the aftermath of the explosion.


    "Bomb! It''s a bomb! It''s an ambush!"


    The least injured Wu Yun felt the scorching heatwave, his eyes nearly bursting with rage!


    Just then! The incident was far from over!


    Several rapid-fire machine guns suddenly appeared on the rooftops and a few members dressed in black Investigation Bureau uniforms began "tat-tat-tat!" wildly firing at the explosion area!


    First-Order Catastrophers can be immune to cold weapons, reducing the damage from light firearms like handguns.


    Second Order Cataclysmics can almost be immune to handguns, reducing damage from heavy weapons.


    And for Third Order Cataclysmics, conventional heavy weaponry is almost ineffective, with only artillery shells and explosives able to cause harm to them.


    Therefore, only Wu Yun was alright on the scene; the other members of the special warfare squad began to sustain injuries one after the other.


    Seeing this scene, Wu Yun''s eyes turned crimson, his body bent, and he seemed to boil, as pores all over his body continuously produced a blood mist!


    The blood mist spread, forming a set of armor and a long sword!


    Then, clad in armor and wielding a long sword, he charged toward the rooftop machine guns despite the hail of bullets!


    Watching from a distance, Qiu Tu, who was observing and commanding calmly, gave orders through a walkie-talkie, "Retreat!"


    "Lead him into the Security Department''s encirclement!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, the shooting Political Department Investigators quickly abandoned their guns and fled!


    They mounted their motorcycles and fled in all directions, but¡­ all towards the northeast.


    By this time, Wu Yun was already seeing red. With the momentum of the blood mist, his speed was not slow, almost on par with, if not slightly faster than, the motorcycles!


    So he glanced back, made sure the gunfire and ambush against his men had stopped, and without further concerns, he continued his frenzied pursuit in his heat of passion!


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu, after witnessing this scene, once again calmly ordered, "Surround the remaining criminals, but don''t act rashly; you are not their match. Wait for me¡­"


    ----------

 Chapter 522 - 326: Tang Feifeis Plot! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    After all, Guan Xiao had just learned this information through a very secretive channel.


    And yet, Qiu Tu already knew about it now?


    Moreover... one should know that she had been moving around all this time, while Qiu Tu had been commanding battles at the frontline.


    When exactly did Qiu Tu learn all of this?


    Thinking this, Guan Xiao couldn''t help but recall her last phone call, asking Qiu Tu whether or not to inform Yan Chen about the Lianzhen Special Combat Team''s ambush.


    And Qiu Tu''s response was that he had already notified Yan Chen.


    ''Could it be... that all of this was planned by my boss, who is so full of schemes, together with Director Yan?''


    ''But... aren''t they mortal enemies? How did they end up collaborating?''


    ''Moreover... why would they both conspire against the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, Lai Shun?''


    Guan Xiao felt that she was usually quite intelligent in the Political Department, but when she truly found herself in the midst of a battle of wits with old foxes like Qiu Tu and Yan Chen, she was completely out of her depth.


    Therefore, she paused for a moment, then tentatively asked, "Chief... you knew about this in advance?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu took the cigarette butt, with only one puff left, out of his mouth, flicked it into the ruins, and then he finally spoke, "This wasn''t my arrangement. How could I possibly have known about it in advance?"


    "I was just making a random guess."


    If Qiu Tu had simply admitted it, Guan Xiao might have doubted whether Qiu Tu was just guessing. But the more Qiu Tu denied it, the more Guan Xiao felt that Qiu Tu was pretending.


    So after a bit of pondering, she began to relay the intelligence she had received, hoping to gauge something from Qiu Tu''s reaction.


    With that thought, she whispered, "Chief, since it was your guess, let me briefly tell you about the whole affair."


    Qiu Tu walked forward while listening to Guan Xiao''s narration.


    According to what Guan Xiao said.


    Last night, Yan Chen invited Lai Shun to his City Center Garden Villa and talked with him for a long time.


    No one knew what they discussed, only that afterward, Yan Chen made a phone call to Commissioner Jiang of the Municipal Committee, saying that he was feeling unwell and couldn''t attend the committee meeting the next day.


    As to not delay Commissioner Jiang''s important work, he asked Lai Shun to attend the meeting in his place.


    Commissioner Jiang was somewhat reluctant, but since Yan Chen had personally made the call and was unexpectedly showing vulnerability, he agreed.


    Since Lai Shun had gone to the Garden Villa with Yan Chen the day before and had stayed there for a day,


    Yan Chen had his motorcade take Lai Shun to the Municipal Committee meeting early this morning.


    As for Yan Chen...?


    He was ill. So he wasn''t going to work today.


    And so... like that, Lai Shun, riding in Yan Chen''s battle car, escorted by Yan Chen''s motorcade, fell into the trap of the Lianzhen Special Warfare Squad and perished!


    The attack on Yan Chen''s motorcade caused a huge commotion, and even though the security personnel at the scene were silenced, the nearby citizens quickly spread the news.


    When Commissioner Jiang of the Municipal Committee heard about it, he was both shocked and furious, and immediately called Yan Chen to inquire about the details.


    It was also because of the phone calls and contact between the two that Guan Xiao''s insider was able to get this piece of intelligence and passed it on to her.


    After listening to Guan Xiao''s story, Qiu Tu chuckled twice.


    Then, he silently appraised in his heart: Indeed ruthless enough...


    He didn''t let me down...


    Yes, Qiu Tu and Yan Chen had actually not made any cooperation or communication.


    The two had always been merely scheming against each other.


    It''s just... because they understood each other too well, that Qiu Tu and Yan Chen could tacitly choose/deduce the scapegoat...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up towards the east, the direction of Yan Chen''s Garden Villa...


    Truthfully, if their enmity had not been so severe,


    Qiu Tu really did want to have a drink with Yan Chen.


    Hmm¡­ and maybe add some poison to Yan Chen''s drink after they finished...


    After all, Yan Chen was too cunning and too ruthless. Whether as an enemy or a friend, he was always nerve-racking...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh out loud. Because he felt he was very much like Yan Chen...


    He also seemed to be the kind of person who made both enemies and friends anxious.


    Having thought this, Qiu Tu also slowly withdrew his thoughts.


    ''Drive the Wolf to Devour the Tiger Operation'' had come to a successful conclusion after Lai Shun''s death.


    When he had reported the ''Lianzhen Special Combat Team'' to Yan Chen a few days ago, he had only thought of getting rid of some of Yan Chen''s mid to low-level direct followers.


    But now, having gotten rid of a deputy director was already a big win.


    Especially since... after Lai Shun''s death, the Investigation Bureau was left with only two deputy directors.


    Tang Feifei, the previously marginalized deputy director, was destined to take over real power.


    Whether she took over Lai Shun''s or Yu Zhengyi''s duties, it meant she had become a true power player!


    By then, her influence, her power, combined with Qiu Tu''s wisdom, would make them a formal match for Yan Chen in the arena!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but hum a tune, feeling that it might be time to claim some credit from Tang Feifei...


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    In Yan Chen''s City Center Garden Villa, the study. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the luxurious study, the curtains were half-drawn.


    Due to the rainy weather, the sunlight was not intense, leaving the entire study still dim and dark.


    With confidants and subordinates being captured or killed one after another, the luxurious study seemed somewhat empty and desolate.

 Chapter 523 - 326: Tang Feifeis Plot! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    And it was in this study,


    that Yan Chen was on the phone.


    On the other end was Yu Zhengyi, the Deputy Director of Administration. His emotions were clearly very agitated; he paid no heed to the past camaraderie between them, and he started cursing straightaway!


    "Yan Chen! Have you fucking lost your mind?"


    "Old Lai is dead! Dead! Killed in a car crash!"


    "Do you dare to swear that you didn''t know any of this? That you weren''t deliberately sending Old Lai to his death?!"


    "You''re the one who wants to fight with Qiu Tu, go to die yourself! Why the hell are you sending others to their deaths!"


    Yan Chen just silently listened to Yu Zhengyi curse at him for a long while before he finally spoke slowly, "I knew there might be an accident, but I didn''t know it would be this serious."


    "I also didn''t know Old Lai would die. If I had known, I definitely wouldn''t have made such a choice."


    Yu Zhengyi, evidently not buying Yan Chen''s explanation, continued to curse at him, "You''re fucking bullshitting!"


    "If it weren''t for anticipating trouble, would you have had Old Lai attend the meeting in your stead?"


    "Come on then, explain to me why you had Old Lai attend the meeting in your place? Give me a rational explanation!"


    Hearing what Yu Zhengyi had to say, Yan Chen was silent for a few seconds before he slowly began to recount the reason.


    After hearing the reason given by Yan Chen, there was clear silence on the other end of the phone from Yu Zhengyi.


    He asked, "When did this happen?"


    Yan Chen spoke gravely, "Just last night."


    After receiving Yan Chen''s reply, Yu Zhengyi fell silent again for a few seconds, then... without saying anything else, he hung up the phone.


    The reason given by Yan Chen, although it could not make Yu Zhengyi forgive Yan Chen for causing the death of their own man, could indeed prove that none of this was deliberate on Yan Chen''s part, but rather a causally plausible coincidence...


    So, he had no other choice but to quit berating Yan Chen and quietly deal with his sorrowful thoughts...


    But what he didn''t know was,


    after hanging up the phone, Yan Chen let out a deep, heavy sigh.


    Then Yan Chen leaned back slowly into the large chair behind his desk, sinking deeply into the darkness...


    He... had lied to Yu Zhengyi.


    In fact... he had indeed intentionally sent Lai Shun to his death.


    Yesterday, after the failed assassination attempt on Qiu Tu, Yan Chen had realized things had spiraled out of control.


    He knew that with Qiu Tu''s vindictiveness, a proportionate retaliation would surely come.


    And since he had struck first, even if Qiu Tu sought revenge, the authorities would likely turn a blind eye.


    But at that time... he had no idea how Qiu Tu planned to retaliate.


    It wasn''t until... after Qiu Tu swiftly changed his tune following Yan Chen''s framing of the United Front, that Yan Chen started to feel something was amiss.


    Qiu Tu''s actions pointed him in a direction: the United Front.


    After all... with that move, it was clear that Qiu Tu was following along with him, making everything seem credible.


    Therefore, he guessed: Qiu Tu''s means of retaliation might also involve the United Front...


    Especially since... just a couple of days earlier, Qiu Tu had brought him intelligence from the spy department. (Chapter 314) sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was clearly written in the report that the United Front had deployed a Special Warfare Squad to Xinjie City to carry out a mission.


    Moreover, the members of this squad were extremely powerful. They included 1 third-tier Changer, 4 second-tier Changers, and 15 first-tier Changers.


    A squad set up like this could absolutely assassinate Yan Chen.


    Although it was unclear why Qiu Tu could convince the United Front to make a move,


    that wasn''t important to Yan Chen.


    What mattered was... how he should respond.


    He first reviewed all of Qiu Tu''s actions from the past few days, deducing from the way Qiu Tu had asked for his itinerary.


    He surmised that Qiu Tu was likely also plotting to make his move against him.


    It just happened to clash with his own schedule.


    Hence, he took out his own itinerary and studied it carefully. Soon, he pinpointed the only possible time Qiu Tu would strike: the Municipal Committee meeting the next morning.


    The reasoning was the same as he had given to the Lianzhen Special Combat Team: it was the single event for which he couldn''t change the time. All other meetings and activities, for Yan Chen, were just a matter of speaking a word...


    After determining when and how Qiu Tu would make his move,


    Yan Chen was left with only three options before him.


    The first was to take a detour or just call off going;


    the second was to arrange an ambush in response;


    the third was... to arrange for someone else to take the fall.


    Compared to the others, the first choice was the safest. But... it was just evasion.


    After all, you can evade on the first day of the month, but not on the fifteenth. As long as the Lianzhen Special Combat Team stayed in Xinjie City, the Sword of Mokros hung over Yan Chen''s head.


    This storm was bound to erupt eventually. Delaying wasn''t the solution to the problem.


    While the second option wasn''t bad, Yan Chen had no contact with the Lianzhen Special Combat Team.


    He was unable to know the locations where the United Front team might be lying in ambush, therefore, he could not arrange for a targeted counter-ambush.


    Using himself as bait to lure the United Front into action while arranging for backup was far too hazardous.


    Moreover... such support would have to come from his own direct lineage to ensure no information leaked, and to prevent the United Front and Qiu Tu from getting tipped off early, calling off the plan, and going back into hiding.


    As a result, it meant the combatants would be all from Yan Chen''s own lineage.


    In the face of a Special Combat Team composed of 20 Changers, casualties were certain to be heavy.


    So, after much consideration, Yan Chen ultimately chose the third option: sending someone else to die, to shield himself from the disaster.


    There were only two people who could die in place of Yan Chen: Yu Zhengyi and Lai Shun.


    After all, only these two Deputy Directors could attend the meeting in place of Yan Chen.


    And only their deaths... would temporarily force Qiu Tu to cease hostilities¡ªhaving got his revenge and because a Deputy Director had been killed, he couldn''t continue the strife further.

 Chapter 524 - 326: Tang Feifeis Plot! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Actually, Yan Chen originally wanted to choose Yu Zhengyi: after all, Yu Zhengyi had been getting a bit too close to Tang Feifei recently, a little out of control.


    But... when he thought about how the Scarlet Widow was brought in by Lai Shun, and once Qiu Tu interrogated Lai Shun through the Scarlet Widow, it would inevitably implicate himself.


    So, after much consideration, Yan Chen ultimately chose Lai Shun...


    That way, the blame for the attack on Qiu Tu and Lai Shun could really be pinned on the United Front...


    Of course, the reason he chose the third option, personally sending a Deputy Director to his death, was also because Yan Chen had further plans...


    This was a "gift" he was sending to Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei...


    It was also the reason he just told Yu Zhengyi that everything was a "coincidence"...


    Thinking this, Yan Chen sat silently for a while, then let out another deep sigh.


    Then he picked up the landline receiver on the desk and dialed Qiu Tu...


    "Beep... beep... beep..."


    Soon, the call connected.


    Qiu Tu''s casual voice came through the receiver, "Hello? Bureau Chief? You''re looking for me?"


    Yan Chen replied with a deep "Hmm," then spoke, "Minister Qiu, do you know about the assassination attempt on Vice Director Lai?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu answered, "Bureau Chief, I was out on a mission with my team when Vice Director Lai''s incident occurred."


    "We have already apprehended all the culprits."


    "I am currently on my way to the scene to assess the situation."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen replied with another deep "Hmm," then spoke again, "That''s good. If there''s anything, you can report directly to Director Tang."


    "Director Tang?" Qiu Tu, who was en route to the scene, paused slightly in his steps.


    He keenly sensed something was amiss.


    Yan Chen was not one to share power; he wanted him to report directly to Tang Feifei? This was somewhat odd...


    Meanwhile, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s hesitation,


    Yan Chen slowly began to speak, "You might not be aware."


    "Ever since you were promoted to Head of the Political Department, Director Tang and her backing Fengtian Faction have been lobbying me earnestly."


    "They hope I will leave Xinjie City and work in the state, opening up the position for Director Tang''s promotion."


    "They bring up facts, speak reasonably. The most frequent topic discussed is you and your Political Department."


    "The Political Department is the Investigation Bureau''s most important ace department, it''s the main source of intelligence for the Bureau."


    "Without the Political Department, I''m like a blind person with eyes open, knowing nothing, unable to do anything."


    "So, stepping down and moving to the state would be in everyone''s best interests."


    Having said this, Yan Chen paused for a moment before continuing, "However¡­ I have not been resolute until now."


    "Not until last night, when Director Tang told me that you were arranging for the United Front to assassinate me this morning."


    "That finally made up my mind..."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu came to an abrupt halt.


    After finishing, Yan Chen said with a grave face, "So, from now on, you can report any matters to Director Tang."


    Having said that, Yan Chen did not wait for Qiu Tu''s reaction and hung up the phone directly.


    After hanging up the phone, Yan Chen''s aged hand placed the receiver slowly back on its cradle. Then he leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes...


    Although hesitant to admit it, he knew... this time, he had been coerced into leaving.


    He realized that the alliance between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, with the assistance of the Security Department and the drumming from City Hall on the sidelines, was becoming powerful.


    If he did not leave now, the future would only become more difficult for him to navigate!


    Since the current situation in Xinjie City was a tangled mess, better to cut the Gordian knot, completely step out of this circle, and head to a bigger stage!


    Then, he could come back to deal with Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, and the others!


    As for the mess here and now, it would serve just right to leave it to Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu to deal with headaches.


    With these thoughts, Yan Chen''s cloudy eyes were incredibly somber...


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the scene of Yan Chen''s motorcade attack.


    Qiu Tu held a communicator, his face blank as he listened to the busy signal on the other end.


    Wait a minute? What had he just heard? Yan Chen was leaving? Tang Feifei was going to be promoted to Bureau Chief?


    ---------


    S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 525 - 327

    Qiu Tu recalled Tang Feifei''s recent behavior.


    Indeed, she had been acting somewhat strangely lately¡­


    The biggest issue was that she had stopped flipping over Qiu Tu''s card.


    Experience from his past life told him: if the bathwater suddenly turned hot and cold, someone else must be using the water with you.


    At that time, Qiu Tu thought that Tang Feifei had finally gotten bored with him and had set her sights on another woman¡­


    He actually didn''t care. After all, though he had conquered Tang Feifei with "beauty", a relationship based on interests was always more reliable than a physical relationship.


    Given the current status, positions, and predicaments of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, it was clear that cooperation between them would definitely be more beneficial than falling out.


    And now, it turned out that Tang Feifei''s recent hot-and-cold attitude was not because there was someone else, but because she was up to something big!


    Thinking along these lines, Qiu Tu also analyzed several details revealed in Yan Chen''s words.


    Firstly, the main purpose of Tang Feifei, or rather the Fengtian Faction, in getting rid of Yan Chen was to clear a position for Tang Feifei.


    This was not uncommon in official circles.


    After all, what influenced promotion was not just background, ability, and seniority. There also had to be an open spot.


    If those above did not get promoted, transferred, arrested, or retire, you would never be able to move up.


    After all... for a regime, stability and order are paramount.


    This was also why Qiu Tu started making achievements and rising up the ranks initially, but later began to plot against his superiors: if he didn''t, he couldn''t get promoted.


    And now, Tang Feifei showed Qiu Tu just what "politics is the art of compromise" means.


    As long as you have enough chips in hand, you don''t need to undermine others, you don''t need to engage in severe conflicts. Compromise and cooperation can still lead to promotions, and... that''s the main melody of politics.


    Transferring Yan Chen to the state side allowed Tang Feifei to take over as Bureau Chief while also easing the conflict between Tang Feifei and Yan Chen.


    You should know... the kind of resources a core member of the Academic Faction like Yan Chen can mobilize is truly frightening.


    Now with Huang Shangzong, a high-ranking member of the Academic Faction, being the State Speaker of Dongye State, Yan Chen''s sustainable fighting power there is far stronger than Tang Feifei''s.


    The Fengtian Faction sent Tang Feifei under Yan Chen''s command to toughen her up, not to bring about her downfall.


    Now, Tang Feifei, using Qiu Tu''s "momentum", has already been able to stand up against Yan Chen, proving her capabilities, so the Fengtian Faction has no further need to keep her locked in a death struggle with Yan Chen.


    And moreover... Yan Chen''s current weakness is because of [timing]!


    The past few months just happened to be around the establishment of Dongye State, and Huang Shangzong was the first State Speaker coming from the Academic Faction.


    At such a critical moment, everything in the Academic Faction had to give way to Huang Shangzong''s control over Dongye State.


    Just as Qiu Tu would not delay or disturb Liu Xiongyuan at such a time, Yan Chen would not disturb Huang Shangzong either.


    But once a few months passed and Huang Shangzong had full control over Dongye State... then Yan Chen could employ the power of the Academic Faction and Huang Shangzong. At that time, Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu would face a dimensional attack from the Academic Faction from the state level!


    That was the main reason the Fengtian Faction chose to reconcile with Yan Chen at this time and then use its connections to send Yan Chen away.


    Having understood the goals of Tang Feifei and the Fengtian Faction, Qiu Tu did not feel the anger of "betrayal".


    After all, they were not from the same faction to begin with, and at certain times, they certainly had to consider their own interests first.


    Moreover, Yan Chen''s transfer was not without gain for Qiu Tu.


    His greatest gain was that he would no longer have any direct enemies in Xinjie City.


    The most critical thing in Xinjie City right now was the "Boundless Heart Sea Development Project", and Qiu Tu''s most important task was to coax Zhao Ji and Larilo and try to gain control of the Boundless Heart Sea Region for Xinjie City.


    As long as he truly became the Regional Controller of this area, his path upward would be wide open!


    The first Regional Controller of the Eighth Sanctuary!


    By then, it wouldn''t be Qiu Tu begging various factions for protection but the factions vying to court him!


    In times of chaos, strength is the guarantee of status. This kind of strength can be military power, personal strength, or scarce privileges that are tied to oneself! S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As for what Yan Chen said about Tang Feifei telling him that Qiu Tu would attack him this morning...


    Qiu Tu didn''t believe it for a second.


    He even felt like laughing.


    Because... Yan Chen had completely misjudged the relationship between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    In Yan Chen''s eyes, Qiu Tu should be dependent on Tang Feifei. The two of them would work together to deal with him, one providing the brains and the other the backing.


    But in reality... Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had merely a typical cooperation.


    Throughout their association, both Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei had silently maintained a certain distance from one another.


    They could enjoy each other''s bodies, collaborate when dealing with Yan Chen, and consider each other when plotting against enemies.


    But... they never meddled in or inquired about each other''s affairs. This was their tacit understanding.


    After all, the two of them were not fellow travelers.


    So... contacting an Evil God, colluding with United Front, assassinating the Bureau Chief¡ªsuch sensitive matters¡ªQiu Tu had not told Tang Feifei at all.


    And Tang Feifei, though she had a slight hunch yesterday, had not inquired either.


    So, Tang Feifei had no idea that Qiu Tu was going to assassinate Yan Chen this morning...


    Thinking this through, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but scoff.

 Chapter 526 - 327

    ''Yan Chen seems to have really gotten old... Now he''s even resorting to sowing discord.''


    ''It seems, ever since his failure to advance to a Fourth Order Catastrophe-evolver, his mindset has been greatly affected.''


    ''And... what does it have to do with me that your two factions have reached an agreement?''


    ''My scheming, the traps within traps, is far from over....''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at the isolated stretch of road where the Special Warfare Squad''s attack had taken place...


    The reason Qiu Tu forced Yan Chen to sacrifice Lai Shun was not actually to seek reconciliation.


    He still had a combination of plans in the works...


    The death of a Deputy Director is no small matter. The aftermath of the incident, the capture of the murderer, and the retribution against United Front, all require the Bureau Chief to worry and act.


    Although this is now due to Yan Chen''s initiative to step down, leaving it to Tang Feifei.


    But... Qiu Tu had quietly set another trap, just waiting for Yan Chen to step into it before he struck.


    Now, although the effect was much diminished due to Yan Chen''s upcoming position in the state, using it was still not an issue. It could be considered a grand farewell gift from Qiu Tu before Yan Chen took up his new post!


    Tang Feifei was worried that once these few months passed, Yan Chen, having gained the support of the Academic Faction, would turn around and settle accounts with her and Qiu Tu, which is why she chose to send Yan Chen away.


    But if Tang Feifei could anticipate this, how could Qiu Tu not?


    Only, his choice differs from Tang Feifei''s...


    His creed has never included options for concession or reconciliation. Only to forge ahead relentlessly!


    Thinking this and looking at the gruesome scene, Qiu Tu took out his communicator and dialed Yu Zhengyi''s number.


    "Doot... Doot... Doot..."


    Yu Zhengyi seemed preoccupied, and so the phone rang seven or eight times before being picked up.


    Perhaps because a peer had died, the analogy "one feels sorrow when one''s neighbor dies" no longer seems an act the "Old Fox" can maintain.


    He spoke indifferently to Qiu Tu, "Hello, Minister Qiu. What''s the matter?"


    Lai Shun had just died, so of course Qiu Tu couldn''t be light-hearted. He paused for two seconds and then spoke in a grave tone, "Director Yu, Director Lai... is dead."


    Yu Zhengyi chuckled and replied, "I know."


    After that, he countered with a question, "Does this matter have anything to do with you, Minister Qiu?"


    Of course, Qiu Tu couldn''t admit involvement, so he hastily replied, "How could this possibly have anything to do with me?"


    Having said this, he changed his tone and then said, "But... it seems this matter might be related to Director Yan."


    "Director Yan?" Yu Zhengyi did not immediately take the bait from Qiu Tu. He asked indifferently, "What does this have to do with Director Yan?"


    "Don''t tell me you think he planned this. Heh... heh..."


    Framing someone requires withstanding scrutiny. Naturally, Qiu Tu wouldn''t resort to such simple tactics, so he said, "That''s not it."


    "But..." Qiu Tu, standing by the roadside, watching the Eagle and Cao Dabiao directing the transfer of the body, took another turn, "Director Yan was aware of it." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time, Qiu Tu did not give Yu Zhengyi much time to respond.


    He immediately went on, "I''ve met with the Bureau Chief twice in the past couple of days, and I clearly reported to him about today''s early morning attack by the Lianzhen Special Combat Team."


    "So I thought he would definitely change his schedule or route. But unexpectedly..."


    At this point, Qiu Tu paused, not continuing any further. But¡­ the implication was clear to both men.


    Having said this, Qiu Tu didn''t even wait for Yu Zhengyi to speak up and directly said,


    "Director Yu, I know you might not trust what I say due to the disagreements between me and Director Yan."


    "But... You can now go to Director Zhao and request to review the reports I submitted."


    "You may also demand that Director Yan be subject to verification by Cataclysmic treasures for lying, and see his reaction."


    "Then, all will come to light..."


    Having finished, Qiu Tu didn''t bother to wait for Yu Zhengyi''s response and just hung up the communicator.


    The bait was cast; the rest was to see if the fish would bite.


    Honestly, from what Qiu Tu knew of Yu Zhengyi''s character, he guessed that Yu Zhengyi would certainly take the bait.


    Given Yu Zhengyi''s nature, even if he didn''t make a big show of investigating, he would surely verify it all quietly.


    And once he verified everything, could Yan Chen, the man who had slaughtered a colleague from his own faction, still stand in the Academic Faction?


    These were the successive killer moves Qiu Tu prepared for Yan Chen!


    Facing the assault by the United Front Special Combat Team, Yan Chen would be gravely injured, he might die; whether he sacrificed Lai Shun or Yu Zhengyi, he would still "die"...


    No matter how he chose, Qiu Tu had him cornered!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu raised his head to look at the misty rain over Xinjie City, the sky was gray, but... after the rain, there must be clear skies!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau.


    On the 12th floor, in the private office of Yu Zhengyi.


    After hanging up the phone with Qiu Tu, Yu Zhengyi''s expression was dark and uncertain.


    He was silent for a long time before finally getting up and heading to Yan Chen''s secretary''s office.


    Secretary Bai was currently detained in the Political Department. So now, Director Zhao was temporarily filling in.


    Upon arriving at the office, Director Zhao was sweating profusely as he dealt with work.


    Compared to Secretary Bai, his work capability clearly fell short.


    However, this had little impact on "Teflon" Yu Zhengyi, who still approached Director Zhao with a smile, "Old Zhao~ Did Qiu Tu come to see the Bureau Chief in the past two days?"


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s enthusiastic query, Director Zhao was utterly baffled, clearly not understanding why Yu Zhengyi would ask such a question.


    But he nodded anyway and then said, "Yes... The day before yesterday, he came to report to the Bureau Chief."

 Chapter 527 - 327

    Yu Zhengyi passed a cigarette to Director Zhao and then asked with a laugh, "By the way, he seemed to have submitted a report to the Bureau Chief?"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi broach this topic, Director Zhao clearly hesitated for a moment.


    It was true that Qiu Tu had submitted a report. But... there were actually some problems with that report....


    Yesterday, to appease Qiu Tu, Yan Chen claimed in front of everyone that Qiu Tu had submitted a report the day before yesterday that documented various situations at the United Front Base in Xinjie City. (Chapter 322)


    It was precisely because of this groundless report that the major purge of the United Front Base took place last night.


    But... to put on a convincing act, Qiu Tu and Yan Chen''s secret deal certainly couldn''t be apparent at a glance.


    So... last night, Qiu Tu really did make up a report and handed it over to Director Zhao. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, thinking of the situation at the United Front Base, and moreover... with Yu Zhengyi being so friendly toward himself, Director Zhao, after a slight hesitation, still chose his words carefully and said, "There was a report...."


    Upon hearing this, Yu Zhengyi slapped Director Zhao on the shoulder, smiling, "Good to know, Old Zhao, would you help me find that report?"


    "I need to write up a recent summary, including the crackdown on the United Front Base yesterday; I need some reference materials."


    For the Deputy Director to review such formal official documents was indeed not a violation of rules, and Yu Zhengyi had a solid reason.


    Therefore, a smile quickly appeared on Director Zhao''s face.


    "No problem, Director Yu." he said.


    After this, he opened the file box and rummaged through it.


    Eventually, he found the document from the day before yesterday''s records and passed it to Yu Zhengyi.


    Without a change in his demeanor, Yu Zhengyi''s gaze casually swept over the document''s archiving date, but his face remained full of smiles as he opened the report...


    After quickly skimming through the report, Yu Zhengyi''s smile grew even brighter. He said, "This report will fit perfectly in my summary."


    "I will borrow it for a bit then."


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s proposal, Director Zhao didn''t mind and with a smile, he responded, "That''s fine, Director Yu, feel free."


    Yu Zhengyi nodded at his words, then stood up and left.


    However, upon reaching the door, Yu Zhengyi didn''t open it immediately.


    He paused for a moment, then with his back to Director Zhao, he asked, "By the way, Old Zhao. The Bureau Chief has seen this report, hasn''t he?"


    Director Zhao still vividly remembered the acting scene between Yan Chen and Qiu Tu from the previous day, so he smiled and said, "The Bureau Chief has seen it."


    What he didn''t realize was... following his words, Yu Zhengyi''s expression turned exceptionally stern...


    ....


    The assassination of Lai Shun caused a major uproar.


    After all, he was the Deputy Director in charge of operations. In Xinjie City, his status and power were among the top 10.


    His misfortune was earth-shattering, and all major departments of the three major institutions sprang into action.


    Luckily, the Head of the Political Department and the Security Department caught the murderer; otherwise, the pressure on all major departments would be even greater.


    And while dealing with these follow-up issues...


    Qiu Tu, the Director of the Political Department, managed to steal some rare downtime nearby


    Guan Xiao from the Espionage Division also quietly arrived


    But... actually, in that report, Qiu Tu not only wrote about the situation at the United Front Base, but also included details about the United Front''s Special Combat Team.


    Moreover... in the middle to later part of the report, Qiu Tu made it clear that he had received intel from espionage that the United Front Special Combat Team would attack during the morning when Yan Chen was attending a meeting at the Municipal Committee.


    This accomplished two effects.


    1. Qiu Tu completely absolved himself of responsibility. As the Head of the Political Department, he had fulfilled his duty to warn and reported all the intelligence and attack plans.


    2. It... put Yan Chen in a very difficult position.


    He was the one who had "seen" the report, knowing he would be attacked, yet he did nothing about it.


    ---------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words, ha! Seeking Monthly Tickets!


    --------


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he had always had the quota to kill.


    She was a bit confused about how she felt.


    It seemed to be an exceedingly comfortable feeling...


    But at this time, Qiu Tu did not give her much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei onto the ground, ripped off her bath towel, and pressed himself on top of her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she had never felt with Liu Fuping...


    The distinct pleasure made her want to use her shoulders to push against Qiu Tu''s resisting mouth several times, trying to halt him.


    But Qiu Tu''s hands, one gripping the front while the other pressed on her shoulder, left her floundering like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude made it nearly impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially... each time when she was almost at her limit and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean in close to her ear and murmur in a deep voice, "Madam Director, do you wish to break our agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, she had always been competitive and couldn''t accept such a one-sided "beatdown!"


    Several times she wanted to turn around and be the one in control!


    But... she was after all a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu''s proposal too hastily, throughout the day and night, she never once touched him proactively, nor did she resist him...


    She was just putting up a silent struggle!


    This time, Qiu Tu was truly making an effort.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, giving her almost no chance to rest!


    And so, they struggled late into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by that time, the 200 plus square meter rest area, and all its rooms, bore the marks of their battle...


    In his drowsy state drifting off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected: Tang Feifei was truly tough! And truly wild!


    If it weren''t for his transformation into a Cataclysmic, which greatly strengthened his body, and the restriction that Tang Feifei couldn''t take the lead...


    He guessed... this effort would have retired his back.....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the dark)]

 Chapter 528 - 328: An Unexpected Spy (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Today, Guan Xiao had obviously gone through some adornment.


    Her face was like the peach blossoms of early spring, alluring yet not losing the vibrant beauty, and her skin was as white as jade, reflecting a healthy rosy glow.


    Coupled with the seductive fiery red lips, she, already a stunning beauty, appeared even more radiant and enticing!


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, she covered her mouth and chuckled softly, then spoke, "Chief, it seems you''ve guessed wrong this time."


    "I''m not here for the mole we''ve planted within the Special Warfare Squad."


    As she said this, she blinked her watery eyes at Qiu Tu, and continued, "Actually... I''m just curious about what exactly is going on today."


    She said, "For instance... why it''s Vice Director Lai in the car, not Director Yan."


    "For instance... I remember you telling me that you already briefed Director Yan about the assassination attempt."


    "What exactly is going on here?"


    Having said this, Guan Xiao closed the door behind her and then briskly jogged over to stand in front of Qiu Tu.


    Then she squatted down in front of Qiu Tu, grasped his arm, gently shook it, and pleaded softly, "Chief~~ Please tell me~~"


    Listening to his gorgeous subordinate''s questions, and watching her actions, Qiu Tu showed no reaction on the surface, but inwardly, he felt like laughing.


    He thought... people really are different.


    Both women, both working for the Investigation Bureau. Tang Feifei never pries into anything; anything Qiu Tu doesn''t mention, she never asks about.


    Yet, Guan Xiao likes to dig deep, thoroughly investigating the secrets hidden beneath.


    This was probably why her intelligence work was excellent and why she could obtain so much valuable information.


    However... Qiu Tu was always cautious in his actions. If he didn''t tell Tang Feifei, Guan Xiao was even less likely.


    However, given Guan Xiao''s personality, if she didn''t get an answer, she would likely continue her investigation in private,


    which would lead to more unnecessary trouble.


    So, with this in mind, Qiu Tu gently withdrew his hand, then said with a smile, "How about this, Section Chief Guan."


    "Let''s substitute tea for alcohol, one cup of tea for one question."


    "Once the pot of tea is finished, our conversation today concludes, and all answers to all questions shall stay in our hearts, never to be spoken again."


    In "Fraud Psychology," there is a principle similar to the Zeigarnik effect in normal psychology, called the Ritualistic Approach Law.


    This psychological theory has an interesting point, which is:


    People naturally doubt answers that come too easily;


    and instinctively believe in answers obtained after a series of complex steps.


    This is because, after going through a series of complex steps, telling a false answer is quite against normal human intuition¡ªit''s too superfluous.


    Not wanting to speak, one can simply remain silent. After so many complex steps, why still lie?


    Fraudsters precisely exploit this kind of psychology to mess with their victims'' emotions.


    For instance... when a victim has fallen for it, wanting to buy a certain item, they pretend to have a hard time selling it to them.


    Only after the victim repeatedly requests, do they "reluctantly" sell it to them.


    This way, the victim naturally has complete faith in the purchase and might even become a repeat victim of the fraud.


    Many members of the "National Treasure Gang" were lured into trouble step by step in just this way...


    And while Qiu Tu mulled over his own "fraud skills," Guan Xiao indeed took the bait.


    Her eyes lit up slightly, then she asked, "So... shall we each have a cup?"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded his head, "Yes."


    And so, the little game began.


    Qiu Tu and Guan Xiao sat opposite each other.


    Guan Xiao first poured Qiu Tu a cup of tea, then gestured with her hand, "Chief, please."


    Qiu Tu, without any modesty, picked up the cup and drank the tea in one gulp.


    He didn''t actually have any questions, but to keep the game going smoothly, he still asked, "Who is the mole you''ve planted in the Lianzhen Special Combat Team?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Guan Xiao covered her mouth, giggling sneakily, then deliberately teased, "Chief, why don''t you guess~~"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu casually guessed, "Is it that... young man with the yellow hair?"


    Guan Xiao laughed and shook her head. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu, "The Yellow-Toothed Old Man? Or the tattooed, young man with earrings?"


    Guan Xiao kept laughing and shaking her head.


    Qiu Tu paused, "Surely it''s not the girl with glasses?"


    At Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao''s smile became even more radiant, but her head shook even more vigorously.


    Honestly, Qiu Tu was genuinely curious at this point.


    After all, his main suspects had all been guessed, and anyone left would really be out of the blue...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help asking, "It couldn''t be the colonel of the Lianzhen Special Combat Team, could it?"


    After saying this, even Qiu Tu laughed.


    Wu Yun was a Third Order Cataclysmic and also a colonel of Lianzhen. If he was sent by Guan Xiao, or had been turned by her, then...


    Tang Feifei''s position could be taken by Guan Xiao!


    Indeed, Guan Xiao laughed upon hearing Qiu Tu say this.


    She shook her head and said, "Chief, you jest. I don''t have that kind of ability."


    After that, she finally stopped holding back.


    She curved her fingers, placed them to her lips, and whistled.


    The next second, a black cat leaped in through the window.


    Its fur was as black as the ink of the night sky, smooth and glossy. Its eyes were two dazzling black gems, twinkling mysteriously in the room as if they could see through everything.


    Seeing it, Guan Xiao grinned and took out a few pieces of meat from her pocket, throwing them to the black cat.


    The black cat sniffed disdainfully and then gradually grew in size, swelling until it transformed into a diminutive lolita.

 Chapter 529 - 328: An Unexpected Spy (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Section Chief Guan! You''ve gone too far! Do you really think of me as a stray cat?"


    After angrily yelling two sentences at Guan Xiao, the little loli saluted Qiu Tu before respectfully saying, "Director, hello! First Level Detective Miao Xiaoxia from the Political Department''s Espionage Division reporting to you."


    Watching the miraculous scene that had just unfolded, a hint of surprise flashed in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Honestly, ever since Guan Xiao had mentioned that there was a spy within the Lianzhen Special Combat Team, he had been curious about who the spy might be.


    He had suspected those four Second Order experts and the fifteen First-Order Catastrophics in the team, but he had never imagined that the spy was not a "person" but a "cat"!


    At this point, perhaps detecting Qiu Tu''s surprise, Guan Xiao chuckled and explained to Qiu Tu, "Director, Xiaoxia is a local, born and raised in Xinjie City."


    "She accidentally ingested some Cataclysmic Material before Xinjie City was established, and unexpectedly awakened her Cataclysmic ability ''Animalization.''"


    "She can transform at will into any low-level creature she has come into contact with and replicate its appearance and habits."


    "So... she is our ace in the Espionage Division."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on Miao Xiaoxia a few more times.


    He was silent for two seconds...


    Then he took off his own coat and threw it to Miao Xiaoxia, saying with an embarrassed expression, "Put on some clothes first."


    "Walking around like this isn''t too appropriate."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Miao Xiaoxia quickly said, "Officer, there''s no need for your clothes. I have my own."


    After saying this, she reached down and unbuttoned something.


    In a moment, there was a button the size of a fingernail in her hand.


    Holding the button, Miao Xiaoxia gave it a shake toward the ground.


    The next second, several items of clothing and a specially made communicator fell out of the button.


    Obviously, this button was a Cataclysmic treasure with a storage function.


    After doing all this, Miao Xiaoxia bowed her head to put on her clothes and stood once again in front of Qiu Tu and Guan Xiao.


    This time, Qiu Tu was no longer "surprised"; he simply asked one question, "Is Xiaoxia over 18 years old?"


    Guan Xiao replied from the side, "She just turned 18 last month."


    Qiu Tu was relieved. It seemed she was a legal loli.


    Thinking this, he also said to Guan Xiao, "Xiaoxia has made a great contribution this time. Remember to write a report for me when we get back. I''ll give her a promotion." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having just finished an undercover mission for the United Front, Qiu Tu and Guan Xiao simply gave Miao Xiaoxia some time off to rest.


    As for the two of them, they continued to play their tea-drinking game.


    This time, it was Guan Xiao''s turn.


    After a cup of tea, Guan Xiao still asked the question he was most interested in, "Officer, this morning when you called me, you said you had already told the Bureau Chief about the United Front''s plan to assassinate him?"


    "What''s the deal with that?"


    "You''re not lying to me, are you?"


    Upon hearing Guan Xiao''s question, Qiu Tu''s eyes grew dark, and his gaze inevitably deepened...


    Of course, he hadn''t lied to Guan Xiao.


    He truly had "told" Yan Chen...


    Yu Zhengyi should be able to testify to that.


    Yes... Qiu Tu had "told" Yan Chen through the report he had made up to submit to Director Zhao last night.


    Yesterday, in order to placate Qiu Tu, Yan Chen had openly claimed in front of the senior and mid-level staff of the Investigation Bureau that Qiu Tu had submitted a report the day before.


    It recorded various situations regarding the United Front Base.


    It was because of this report that Yan Chen could logically send troops to destroy that United Front base and credit all the merit to Qiu Tu.


    But since the report was a fabrication by Yan Chen out of thin air, to cover up this loophole, Qiu Tu had specially written a report about the United Front base last night.


    However... in that report, Qiu Tu did not only write about the United Front base, but also about the United Front Special Combat Team and their plan to attack tomorrow morning when Yan Chen was scheduled to go to the Municipal Committee meeting.


    Qiu Tu had two reasons for doing so.


    First, if Yan Chen''s convoy was attacked, no matter who died, he, as the Head of the Political Department, was somewhat negligent.


    Later on, when the time came to settle scores, Qiu Tu would quickly be deemed incompetent or neglectful.


    However, by sending a report in advance as a warning, if Yan Chen got into trouble, then he would bear no responsibility at all.


    Second... with this documented report, a heavy burden would be placed on Yan Chen''s shoulders.


    He had publicly stated that he had "read" this report.


    As long as he had read the report, in theory, he definitely knew he was going to be attacked.


    Yet, under such circumstances, he arranged for Lai Shun to ride in his convoy, resulting in Lai Shun''s death.


    This evidence could almost prove that Yan Chen deliberately harmed his colleague!


    Of course, Yan Chen could argue that he hadn''t seen the file, but then he would be overthrowing everything he said during the appeasement yesterday.


    In the end, upon investigation, it would still be uncovered that he harmed his colleague: plotting against Qiu Tu!


    As such, Qiu Tu had actually planned everything that followed the moment he was attacked by Yan Chen yesterday evening, and it was a trap set on both sides.


    And the development of the situation did not come as a surprise to him.


    Yan Chen was indeed ruthless enough to sacrifice Lai Shun.


    And Qiu Tu''s backup plan had successfully worked.


    He guessed... by now, Yu Zhengyi should have already obtained and seen the report he had submitted.


    Qiu Tu believed that his backup plan would likely have an unexpected effect and at the very least, serve as a formal accusation for Yan Chen...


    Although internally, he had thought through his final plan, of course, Qiu Tu couldn''t actually tell Guan Xiao.


    So he selectively told Guan Xiao what he could say.

 Chapter 530 - 328: An Unexpected Spy (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    After his slight adjustment, the "truth" of the matter became:


    Qiu Tu had personally warned and submitted a report to Yan Chen. Yan Chen had verbally agreed, but didn''t take it seriously¡­


    After both had obtained the answers they most wanted to know, the "tea-tasting Q&A" game gradually began veering off course.


    Guan Xiao asked about Qiu Tu''s height, weight, and hobbies in great detail, which was as clear as daylight to everyone.


    Compared to her, Qiu Tu was much more innocent.


    He only remembered a few keywords: 172 centimeters, 102 pounds, 36D, black, not wearing¡­


    At the revelation of the last keyword, Qiu Tu nearly spit out his drink. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He reflexively glanced under Guan Xiao''s skirt, suspecting she was teasing him.


    So he couldn''t help but ask, "Section Chief Guan, why aren''t you wearing underwear?"


    Guan Xiao covered her mouth and snickered, "Because I was meeting with the senior officer today, I was afraid he might sneak a peek at my underwear, so I simply didn''t wear any."


    Qiu Tu:...


    Truth be told, at that moment, Qiu Tu really wanted to applaud Guan Xiao.


    So what if she was a bit cheeky and calculating? Wasn''t all the effort she made just to please him...


    A woman who would go to such lengths for him, Qiu Tu felt it was enough¡­


    Just like that, the day quickly passed by.


    That day, Qiu Tu handled the aftermath of Lai Shun''s attack remotely and directed the interrogation of the Lianzhen Special Combat Team members from afar.


    Because they had prepared in advance, all 20 members of the Special Warfare Squad were captured alive.


    This massive victory overshadowed the brutality of Lai Shun''s attack.


    After all, Sanctuary had been fighting with the Anti-government Armed Forces for years, and although not many mid to high-ranking officials from the Planning Area had died, there weren''t a few either.


    Yet, feats like capturing alive a Lianzhen Colonel, four Second-Order Cataclysmics, and fifteen First-order Catastrophers were rare.


    Therefore, Dai Yukang, who had been stationed in the region, even took the rare opportunity to call and check in on Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman...


    And encouraged them both to keep up the good work...


    However, Qiu Tu was clearly not too fond of Dai Yukang''s pie in the sky promises.


    Moreover, compared to Dai Yukang, he was more eager to receive a call from someone else...


    Time ticked away, second by second.


    It wasn''t until after 7 in the evening that Qiu Tu finally received that person''s call.


    Answering the phone, Qiu Tu deliberately made his voice sound a bit harsh, "Hello? Director Tang? Is there something you need?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s somewhat distant words, Tang Feifei was silent for a couple of seconds on the other end of the line.


    Then, she finally spoke in a chilly voice, "Come over to my place for dinner."


    Qiu Tu chuckled and responded, "I''m not feeling well today, can''t have dinner."


    Tang Feifei said helplessly, "I mean a proper dinner."


    Qiu Tu uttered "Oh," and replied, "Who''d go for a ''proper'' one?"


    Tang Feifei:...


    Tang Feifei realized then that Qiu Tu was seizing the opportunity to play and manipulate her.


    So she didn''t want to drag the conversation further with Qiu Tu and simply dropped, "If I don''t see you in half an hour, you''ll bear the consequences," and then she hung up.


    After hanging up the phone, Tang Feifei sat on the couch of her villa, with her eyes closed, pondering.


    This reaction from Qiu Tu was actually something she had anticipated.


    In fact... she could guess that Qiu Tu wasn''t really angry, but was deliberately manipulating her.


    There was still that level of tacit understanding between the two of them.


    But... she really didn''t want to indulge Qiu Tu.


    After all... besides running around for her own affairs, the thing she had done the most during this time was preparing a gift for Qiu Tu...


    -------


    A 10,000-word chapter haha! It''s the last three days of the month, I''m asking for Monthly Tickets! If you don''t use your Monthly Tickets soon, they''ll expire, brothers!!


    ---------


    Answering the phone, Qiu Tu deliberately made his voice sound a bit harsh, "Hello? Director Tang? Is there something you need?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s somewhat distant words, Tang Feifei was silent for a couple of seconds on the other end of the line.


    Then, she finally spoke in a chilly voice, "Come over to my place for dinner."


    Qiu Tu chuckled and responded, "I''m not feeling well today, can''t have dinner."


    Tang Feifei said helplessly, "I mean a proper dinner."


    Qiu Tu uttered "Oh," and replied, "Who''d go for a ''proper'' one?"


    Tang Feifei:...


    Tang Feifei realized then that Qiu Tu was seizing the opportunity to play and manipulate her.


    So she didn''t want to drag the conversation further with Qiu Tu and simply dropped, "If I don''t see you in half an hour, you''ll bear the consequences," and then she hung up.


    After hanging up the phone, Tang Feifei sat on the couch of her villa, with her eyes closed, pondering.


    This reaction from Qiu Tu was actually something she had anticipated.

 Chapter 531 - 329

    Meanwhile, at the Investigation Bureau, 9th floor.


    Qiu Tu''s office.


    Hearing the "beep beep" sound of Tang Feifei hanging up the phone through the receiver, Qiu Tu smiled and shook his head slightly.


    It had to be said, Tang Feifei was no ordinary woman, indeed hard to handle.


    Just now on the phone, Qiu Tu actually wanted to take advantage of Tang Feifei''s "guilt" and embarrassment, to psychologically manipulate her.


    Then he would switch their defensive and offensive positions, climb on top of her head, and seize the "imperial throne" of the family!


    But who knew... Tang Feifei didn''t fall for it, not giving Qiu Tu a chance, still firmly holding the initiative in this partnership, as well as... in their relationship.


    ''Conquering this woman is truly difficult.....''


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu shook his head again, but didn''t take it too seriously.


    After all, if Tang Feifei were an untiring cheetah, then Qiu Tu was a hunter with patience.


    No matter how agile the cheetah, it would eventually tire.


    And the hunter only needed to follow the cheetah closely, always able to wait for the moment, to take her down!


    After all, as time went on, the gap between the strength and positions of Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would narrow.


    Qiu Tu''s opportunities would also grow more and more.....


    So, Qiu Tu believed, one day, he would surely take down this cheetah....


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu collected his emotions, preparing to go find Tang Feifei.


    Tang Feifei had kept him in the dark and quietly made such big news. As partners, they still needed an explanation, to clear the air.


    This included discussing the future power distribution of Xinjie City; how to deal with Yan Chen''s old forces; and also their next targets.


    And perhaps... even their future relationship.


    Thus, tonight''s conversation would determine Qiu Tu''s situation for the next year or two, as well as his attitude towards Tang Feifei.


    Leaving the office, he took Tan Huimin downstairs with him, got into the car, and set off toward Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Tan Huimin drove, while Qiu Tu didn''t sit in the back seat, instead taking a place in the passenger seat, caressing Tan Huimin''s delicate thigh.


    Tan Huimin drove silently, considerately shifting her leg closer to Qiu Tu''s side.


    After driving like this for a while, Tan Huimin softly spoke up. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She said, "Chief. Today, as per your orders, I spread the news about Vice Director Lai''s attack, with Director Yan possibly having to bear joint responsibility and considering resignation due to it."


    Leaning back in his seat and resting with his eyes closed, Qiu Tu''s hand gently caressed Tan Huimin''s thigh, and he responded with a faint "Hmm."


    Yan Chen wanted to leave Xinjie City unscathed, but how could Qiu Tu give him that chance.


    Informing Yu Zhengyi about Yan Chen sending Lai Shun to his death, Qiu Tu blocked Yan Chen''s way forward; while in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, reinterpreting Yan Chen''s transfer as a demotion for a mistake, was Qiu Tu blocking Yan Chen''s retreat.....


    The former would prevent Yan Chen from gaining factional support, the latter would make it hard for Yan Chen to remotely control his confidants in Xinjie City.


    This way, Qiu Tu could more easily deal with him.


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this, Tan Huimin whispered, "However, while spreading the news, I inadvertently came across a secret."


    With his eyes still closed, caressing her thigh, Qiu Tu let out a questioning "Hmm?"


    Tan Huimin said softly, "Do you remember how, a few days ago, rumors suddenly spread in the bureau that Director Yan was disliked by the higher-ups of the Sanctuary, that they were preparing to act against him, and that supporting you was their first step?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    Tan Huimin continued, "I heard that it was someone from Director Tang''s side who quietly let it out."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu paused his hand movement for a moment, then chuckled lightly.


    He had been wondering why that message spread so quickly back then and was so detailed. Now it seems... Tang Feifei had been laying out her plans long before.


    Qiu Tu speculated that this might just be a snapshot of Tang Feifei''s game with Yan Chen.


    Only because his own political sensitivity wasn''t high enough, he hadn''t paid too much attention....


    With such thoughts, the car moved slowly through the darkness, quickly arriving at Tang Feifei''s villa.


    Perhaps due to the daytime attack on Lai Shun, security and vigilance around Tang Feifei''s home had increased significantly.


    There were guards standing post and patrolling everywhere.


    Of course, this had no effect on Qiu Tu.


    The guards stood up straight, saluted, and watched respectfully as Qiu Tu''s car approached.


    Like this, he arrived unobstructed at Tang Feifei''s villa and got out of the car.


    The rain in Xinjie City had not stopped, the drizzle falling silently in the darkness enveloping the whole world in a hazy mist.


    The street lamp at the gate of the villa shone a stern light through the curtain of rain, adding a chilly note to the late autumn night.


    A breeze blew by, and the rustling of leaves added a touch of bleakness and mystery to the night.


    Qiu Tu looked up at the sky. Since Larilo lost control over the Xinjie Territory, the sky of Xinjie City seemed to have cleared up a lot.


    The deep blue moon hung in the transparent sky like a piece of glass, appearing lively through the fine drizzle.


    After watching the night sky for a while, Qiu Tu turned to Tan Huimin who stood beside him, holding the umbrella for him, and said, "Alright, you can go back now, I''ll go in alone."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu stepped onto the porch steps of the villa, walking into the entrance hall.


    Hearing the car starting outside, Qiu Tu also looked at Tang Feifei.

 Chapter 532 - 329

    Tonight, Tang Feifei wasn''t wearing her usual uniform or the tight yoga outfits she often wore, but instead had changed into a loose-fitting white practice outfit that was tied at the waist with just a sash...


    And... It seemed like the woman had foregone wearing a chest wrap today. With the outfit being slightly loose, her pert breasts cheekily revealed a half-moon every now and then.


    The experience, akin to a glimpse of the pipa with its partial concealment, was honestly quite tempting.


    Therefore, after giving Tang Feifei''s newly-unlocked "skin" a once over, Qiu Tu offered a fair appraisal, "It looks better than the ''original skin''."


    Indeed, after reaching a certain favorability, new skins and poses would be unlocked.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but compliment, "Very beautiful~ A new outfit?"


    Tang Feifei gave an "Mhm" in response, then said with a cool face, "It was specially shipped from the Sanctuary." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Having said that, she paused for a moment, then added, "I''ve prepared one for you as well."


    Qiu Tu blinked at these words, just about to inquire further when Tang Feifei interjected, "Your realm is not low now, but your foundation in martial techniques is still somewhat weak."


    "I have already taught you a lot in the past period. I''ve laid a solid foundation for you."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but recall the sensual teaching moments they had shared recently.


    Images unbidden filled his mind.


    Tang Feifei continued, "Now that the foundation is nearly set, I''m going to teach you some basic martial techniques and combat skills."


    Qiu Tu instantly got it!


    Favorability had reached a certain point, unlocking a new storyline!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu coughed lightly and said, "Alright. So... now?"


    Tang Feifei shook her head, "Let''s eat first."


    "I feel like you must have a lot of questions you want to ask me. And... I also have a gift for you."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment.


    Good guy, wasn''t this new storyline, this new posture, a gift?


    In that case, he needed to look forward to it all the more.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu followed Tang Feifei to the dining room.


    By now, the dining room was laid with steaming hot dishes, clearly just served by the maid while Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei were chatting.


    The two sat on opposite sides of the dining table and chatted while eating.


    Having gotten closer, Qiu Tu didn''t need to conceal anything, so while bowing his head eating, he naturally asked, "When did you start thinking about getting rid of Yan Chen?"


    Tang Feifei wiped her mouth with a napkin and said indifferently, "Since Larilo''s fall."


    Qiu Tu was surprised and looked up at her, "That early?"


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly.


    Then with a profound look, she said, "The fall of an Evil God will inevitably leave the Boundless Heart Sea territorial control rights up for grabs."


    "Whether it''s my family or other factions, they all want to take control of this region."


    "So, each faction will send experts and elites to conduct research."


    "The starting point for everyone is more or less the same; what matters is luck, strength, and the ability to sustain research."


    "At this time, if I could become the Bureau Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, I''d definitely be able to provide more help for my family."


    "I don''t need to disrupt or interfere with the research of other factions. Just by providing all kinds of help within my authority for my family, that''s enough to lead us ahead of the other factions."


    After listening to Tang Feifei, a look of realization dawned on Qiu Tu''s face.


    No wonder the Fengtian Faction made their move at such a time, transferring Yan Chen away to let Tang Feifei take office.


    Aside from the purpose of clearing the path for Tang Feifei, it was also for the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Project."


    Only... in doing so, the Fengtian Faction''s goals had collided with Qiu Tu''s...


    And even... the outcome might be worse.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu tentatively asked, "You''re not the person in charge of your family''s operation this time, are you?"


    Tang Feifei had already taken Qiu Tu very seriously, but... no one would expect a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened with no background whatsoever to set his sights on the Boundless Heart Sea territorial control rights, just like her.


    So, without any guard, she nodded and said, "Not only am I the person in charge of this operation, but I am also the candidate chosen by my family as the ''Regional Controller.''


    Qiu Tu: ...


    ---------


    -------


    After all, as a deputy minister of the government department, he inherently had his quota of lives to take.


    She couldn''t quite understand what that feeling was.


    It just seemed incredibly comfortable....


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off the bath towel enveloping her, and overwhelmed her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a completely different kind of sensation than what she and Liu Fuping had ever shared....


    That wholly distinct pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to push against Qiu Tu''s attacking front, trying to call for a pause.


    But Qiu Tu was gripping her from the front with one hand, while the other hand pressed down on her shoulder, leaving her like a fish out of water, unable to flip over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially when... every time she was about to be overwhelmed and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean into her ear and murmur in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the pact?"


    In that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly speaking, being strong-willed since childhood, she could not accept being "thrashed" so one-sidedly!


    Several times, she wanted to turn the tables!


    But... she was after all a person who kept her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu''s terms too rashly, throughout the day and night, she really didn''t initiate any touch with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him....

 Chapter 533 - 329

    He was just silently exerting all his strength! S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that if he wanted to conquer this woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei tightly, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    In this way, they continued struggling into the deep night, only embracing each other and falling asleep exhausted, and by this time, the over 200 square foot rest room, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was dozing off in a daze, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei is really strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t been promoted to a Cataclysmic, with his body greatly strengthened, barring Tang Feifei from taking the initiative!


    He reckoned... after this round, his waist might have to retire....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closed time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the darkness)]


    ....


    The next day, along with the first ray of sunlight in the early morning.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    His first instinct was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his hand, he felt soreness in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu gasped in the cool air, then became fully awake amidst the soreness, checked his arms, and only then did he belatedly remember the glorious achievements of the whole day and night yesterday.


    Thinking about the hardworking self from yesterday, who only knew to bury his head and toil, and about Tang Feifei, who was almost worn to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his waist...


    Feeling that his waist would probably be out of service from then on.


    Thinking so, he slightly moved his thigh, sourness shooting up to the top of his head.


    ''Forget it, let''s also light one for Yue Kua as well, probably done for....''


    Quietly reflecting on the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached to his side, then he realized that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he knew well that it was just a transaction between the two, in that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like denying acquaintance after the fact!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked over barefoot, bare-legged, bare-bodied, holding a bowl of medicine in her hands.


    Her legs were long, her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    She had an indescribable rhythm in her walk, like a leopard stealthily speeding through the jungle, each step full of strength and rhythm.


    Upon reaching Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to set down the medicine, then calmly said, "Drink up. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the inauguration time of Dongye State Council might be advanced again.


    When the time comes, he might have to directly face the threat from Huang Shangzong.


    So, Qiu Tu had to improve his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before then,


    Among the Organizational Department''s several deputy directors, Zhen Lie is from the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu is from the "Reformist Faction," and Meng Sanzhai is from the "Fengtian Faction."


    According to the intelligence provided by Yan Chen, except for Meng Sanzhai, none should be related to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but glance towards Ouyang Heng sitting next to him, Ouyang Heng was from the "Free Democracy Faction," even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four were supporting Qiu Tu!


    Furthermore, among these four, Meng Sanzhai from the "Fengtian Faction" was the most hands-off, merely expressing his support for Qiu Tu without saying much.


    Truly an Evil God, one word from him was enough to make people feel at ease.


    Sexuality is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we people of Zhejiang are born with hard bones


    Grip the steering wheel tightly for driving to feel thrilling, my sister-in-law seems a bit impatient, huh


    Mountains are the extremely slow waves of geological age


    Sexuality? Not sure, it''s just that the flowers are blooming brightly, it would seem like I don''t understand romance if I don''t appreciate them


    Thinking in this manner, having successfully secured Larilo''s Loyalty, Qiu Tu decided not to continue with Larilo


    ------


    "To comply with procedure and avoid any more trouble through delay, we decided to arrest Eagle as soon as the Speaker officially took office,"


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him somewhat strangely, before asking, "Sir... You don''t seem surprised by this intelligence?"


    She asked doubtfully, "Don''t you think this intelligence is very important?"


    "Isn''t there any... encouragement? Praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan has a point."


    "You all in the Intelligence Section have accomplished such a great feat, indeed it should be duly praised."


    "Once this case is cracked, and all the Lianzhen Special Combat Team members are eliminated, I will make a recommendation for your merits."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a discerning look with her charming foxy eyes and then said, "Sir... I don''t know if it''s just me."


    "I always get the feeling... that you knew about the Lianzhen Special Combat Team situation before me?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in the chair, smiling lightly in response, "Oh?"


    "Then....."


    "You might be right."


    Qiu Tu''s words made Guan Xiao''s eyes slightly widen.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao actually had the ability and habit of collecting intelligence whenever possible, which made her particularly sensitive to certain emotions.


    So, when she finished reporting the intelligence about the Lianzhen Special Warfare Squad, and Qiu Tu did not show any shock or urgency, she keenly felt something was off.


    However, even though her intuition told her Qiu Tu might also know the intelligence, rationally, she didn''t believe it one bit.


    After all, her intelligence was conveyed by spies at great pains and risking their lives.


    How could Qiu Tu know about it?


    And at that moment,


    -------


    There was 1 third-tier Cataclysmic, 4 second-tier Cataclysmics, and 15 first-tier Cataclysmics.

 Chapter 534 - 330: The Fierce Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Tang Feifei clearly didn''t understand why Qiu Tu wouldn''t accept her proposal.


    After all... in her opinion, it wasn''t a very difficult choice.


    The "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" required scientific researchers and multiple Third Order Cataclysmics to explore, so only the major powers were able to participate.


    Among the major powers, other than her own Fengtian Faction, the only ones related to Qiu Tu were the Reformist Faction and the Iron-Blood Faction.


    But neither of those could be closer to Qiu Tu than she was.


    Moreover, they couldn''t offer conditions as generous as hers.


    So, when Tang Feifei was discussing this matter with Qiu Tu, she was actually quite confident.


    And now... Qiu Tu still hadn''t accepted.


    Thinking this, the expression on her face changed, becoming expressionless.


    Her gaze was profound and sharp as she looked at Qiu Tu, like a female leopard filled with danger.


    She wasn''t the kind to pry into other people''s affairs, but when it came to her own matters, she liked to get to the bottom of it because she hated misunderstandings.


    "Why?"


    Tang Feifei stared at Qiu Tu, her wheat-colored face filled with coldness, "I need a reason."


    Ever since Tang Feifei began wielding significant power with Qiu Tu''s help, her aura of authority had grown increasingly strong.


    Moreover, with her formidable strength, her emotions could now affect the real world. Thus, a simple question from her seemed to lower the temperature in the restaurant by two degrees.


    However, at this time, Qiu Tu was also at the Second-order Peak, only one major realm... behind Tang Feifei.


    Moreover, there was no alert from the Crisis Countdown, so Qiu Tu wasn''t concerned.


    He pinched the stem of his wine glass between his index finger and thumb, gently swirling the glass.


    Centrifugal force made the amber liquid in the glass rotate along the sides like waves, swaying.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze quietly followed the slowly spinning liquid...


    After a moment, he spoke slowly yet firmly, "I also want to gain control over the Xinjie City region."


    Having lived two lives, Qiu Tu actually didn''t like to tell the truth. No matter who he faced, he would always hold something back.


    But... during this time, he had been closely connected with Tang Feifei, who had always taken care of him, helping him. Even his promotion to Head of the Political Department had been supported by Tang Feifei''s family in the background.


    In addition, there were Tang Feifei''s two gifts today¡ªdeveloping a new position for Qiu Tu and giving him the nominal authority of a Deputy Director.


    Qiu Tu really couldn''t lie to Tang Feifei...


    But it seems that habitually deceiving others could really bring retribution.


    Qiu Tu had spoken the rare truth, yet it only made Tang Feifei laugh.


    She chuckled lightly, disbelief written all over her wheat-colored face, then said, "You want to control the Boundless Heart Sea Region?"


    "Qiu Tu... to enter the Boundless Heart Sea, one must undergo ''Spiritual Promotion'', allowing the consciousness to coalesce into a physical form that can survive independently of the body."


    "That means one must be a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "You aren''t even a Third Order Cataclysmic, you can''t even enter the Boundless Heart Sea, so how can you control the region of the Boundless Heart Sea..."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s rebuttal, Qiu Tu showed no reaction. It was as though he hadn''t heard at all, continuing to gently swirl his wine glass, without answer or explanation...


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei''s expression first froze, then also slowly retreated.


    She seemed to hesitate for a moment, then finally ventured, "Did you obtain the Skull Talisman?"


    The effect of the Skull Talisman, a Cataclysmic treasure, was that by reciting the associated curse, one''s soul could temporarily travel to the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    It was a valuable tool for Cataclysmics below the Third Order to explore the Boundless Heart Sea. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu indeed had obtained it, though it was a "spiked version" refined by Shen Lingshuang, which might have some unique effects, it certainly enabled him to enter the Boundless Heart Sea and gain control of the region. (Chapter 302)


    Thus, when Qiu Tu heard Tang Feifei''s words, he still said nothing...


    He just continued to spin the glass.


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei also guessed that Qiu Tu really had found a way to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    And... knowing Qiu Tu, she realized that if he had decided to do something, he must have at least some assurance.


    This meant, during this time, Qiu Tu must have obtained some information about controlling the Boundless Heart Sea Region from certain channels.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s expressions also gradually became reserved.


    Her face darkened slightly as she looked at Qiu Tu, just watching...


    After a while, she lifted her own wine glass and drained it in one gulp.


    "Bang!" She set the wine glass heavily on the marble tabletop!


    Tang Feifei asked one last question, "Do you really want to be enemies?"


    Qiu Tu gently placed his wine glass aside, then looked at Tang Feifei.


    He said seriously, "Feifei, this isn''t about being enemies. It''s just competition."


    "The interests of the Boundless Heart Sea Region are so vast, if there''s a chance to obtain them, no one would want to give up."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu posed a question in return, "If the choice were before you, would you give it up?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei also fell silent.


    She sat there, quietly pondering for a while.


    After a moment, she didn''t speak but reached for the bottle to pour herself another glass of wine, then raised it towards Qiu Tu.


    "If that''s the case, then let''s each rely on our own abilities."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, a smile finally appeared on Qiu Tu''s face, and he raised his glass to clink it against Tang Feifei''s.


    "Ding~~" The crisp sound of the glass clinking echoed in the empty restaurant.


    "Let''s rely on our own abilities."

 Chapter 535 - 330: The Fierce Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    After finishing the drink, Qiu Tu put down his glass, wiped his mouth, stood up, and prepared to leave.


    Before, the two had been allies, partners. So, they sat together for meals, drinking and chatting. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, they were competitors, and of course, he couldn''t shamelessly continue to stay at Tang Feifei''s villa.


    So, he stood up, looked at Tang Feifei, and said, "I don''t know if there''ll be another chance. For now, let me congratulate the Bureau Chief on your promotion in advance."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked back at him with a complex expression, momentarily at a loss for words.


    Observing this, Qiu Tu didn''t mind; he smiled, nodded at Tang Feifei, straightened his uniform, and turned to walk out of the dining room.


    As he reached the villa''s living room, it only then dawned on Qiu Tu that he had sent Tan Huimin home earlier; now it was still raining, and he wondered how he would get home.


    Should he ask Tan Huimin to come back for him?


    The original plan had been to stay overnight, but being chased out halfway through was just too embarrassing, wasn''t it?


    Go back to Tang Feifei to borrow a car, or go back to Shen Lingshuang?


    Qiu Tu felt that this was even more awkward than asking Tan Huimin to come for him.


    But... he couldn''t possibly walk back, could he?


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a little despondent.


    Just then, a cool voice came from behind him, "I''ll take you home."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but turn around to look.


    But at that moment! Suddenly!


    A blur accompanied by a whooshing sound of splitting air, whistled towards Qiu Tu!


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, reflexively dodging to the side!


    But the blur was clearly faster than Qiu Tu''s reaction!


    As Qiu Tu moved to the side, the blur followed suit, turning into a horizontal sweep aiming at his head!


    Qiu Tu''s eyes went wide as he hastily protected his head with his hands!


    The next second, Qiu Tu felt an immense force coming at him! He staggered backward several steps!


    However, having gained some distance, Qiu Tu finally saw the person attacking him, and it was Tang Feifei.


    At that moment, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu with a cold face, her wheat-colored skin filled with wild beauty and allure!


    "You refused the toast only to drink a forfeit."


    "I just promoted you, taught you some basic martial techniques, and now you''ve gotten too big for your boots."


    "You even want to compete with me for control of the Boundless Heart Sea Region?"


    "Come, let''s see if you have what it takes to be my competitor."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei stepped forward with her left foot and fiercely stamped her right foot, charging at Qiu Tu like an arrow released from its bow!


    Her long and firm legs swept forward with a "whoosh," like a cheetah sprinting across the savanna!


    In this time, Qiu Tu had received true transmission from Tang Feifei. He was just caught off guard because of her sneak attack.


    Now that Tang Feifei was attacking head-on, even if there was still a great gap in strength, Qiu Tu could still manage a few moves.


    So, in just a moment, the entire villa was filled with the sound of their intense combat!


    Front kicks, straight hooks, side-kicks, elbow and knee combos!


    The entire living room was filled with their clashing figures!


    Moreover, because both were second and third-order cataclysmic beings, far exceeding ordinary human physicality, their figures were almost like afterimages, crisscrossing non-stop through the living room!


    But no matter what, the gap in strength between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei was still huge.


    Especially since Qiu Tu''s cataclysmic ability was invincible against weaker opponents, but against those of higher order than him, it was really of no use at all!


    So, in just two short minutes, Qiu Tu was caught in a weak spot by Tang Feifei, knocked to the ground with a punch, and then had his neck locked in a figure-four leglock by her slender legs!


    At that time, Qiu Tu was pale and gasping for breath.


    By contrast, Tang Feifei was clearly more composed and calm, with only a fine sweat on her forehead.


    She looked at Qiu Tu dispassionately, "You lost. So..."


    "You''re my trophy for tonight."


    With that, she used both hands to forcefully tear off Qiu Tu''s clothes.


    This sudden turn of events left Qiu Tu stammering in confusion!


    By then, Tang Feifei had already released the lock around his neck, propped herself up, and sat on top of him.


    Qiu Tu tried to resist, still uttering surprised sounds.


    But Tang Feifei seized his "brother," starting the intimidation.


    Caught in her grip, Qiu Tu immediately deflated.


    He looked at Tang Feifei, whose pupils were now flashing amber light, and her gaze was sharp as a blade, filled with danger.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Oh well. After all, he was the vanquished party; it seemed he had no terms to negotiate.


    So, he reached out to adjust Tang Feifei''s white practice outfit.


    Turns out the quality of the practice outfit might not have been that great, for with just a gentle tug at the belt,


    the practice outfit came apart like a butterfly taking flight.


    Before Qiu Tu lay a body filled with strength and beauty.


    The body was exquisite, its curves rising and falling like mountains, capturing the softness of a woman along with a savage sense of beauty.


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s move, Tang Feifei snorted softly, and then began to reap the victor''s spoils.


    Her waist was slender and supple, swaying in the breeze like willow branches, full of the rhythm of life.


    Her legs were long and muscular, as if they could bear all the pressures and burdens of the world.


    Her... body thrummed with strength, and with every attempt Qiu Tu made to resist, it was as though he traversed countless obstacles...


    Thus, yesterday''s allies had turned into today''s competitors, engaging in the most primal contest this world has to offer.

 Chapter 536 - 330: The Fierce Battle with Tang Feifei (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Ever since his promotion to Head of the Political Department, and his strength rose to the Second Order Peak, followed by a further strengthening of his body, Qiu Tu had yet to spar with Tang Feifei.


    It was only after this bout that Qiu Tu realized he finally seemed to be able to exchange blows with Tang Feifei on equal footing. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei also seemed to realize this, and in her surprise, she became even more ferocious, acting as though she truly wanted to treat tonight''s bout as a rehearsal for the future!


    Eventually, after sparring for half the night and reaching another peak together, Tang Feifei bit Qiu Tu''s shoulder and then said fiercely, "I won''t let you have it!"


    Feeling the tender passion inside her, Qiu Tu gently stroked her back and whispered, "Mm, I won''t either..."


    ...


    There was silence through the night.


    The next day, when Qiu Tu got up, Tang Feifei was already not in the bedroom.


    Getting up, Qiu Tu saw a set of white men''s practice outfits on the nightstand.


    Clearly... it was the first gift Tang Feifei mentioned last night.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu smiled, got dressed, and walked out.


    Once outside, Tang Feifei was there doing her morning exercises.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei''s expression was ice-cold, devoid of any smile.


    She threw a "hidden weapon" at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu caught it and discovered it was a booklet with martial techniques recorded inside.


    The name on the booklet was "Battle Step," apparently a footwork technique.


    Tang Feifei said indifferently, "Go back and take a good look, study it. Come find me in three days, and I''ll guide you."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu touched his waist and then asked, "This guidance¡­ is it serious?"


    Tang Feifei:.....


    Ignoring Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei wiped off her sweat and walked straight past him, heading for breakfast.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t upset, but instead followed her cheerfully to freeload a meal.


    After breakfast, of course, the two of them couldn''t leave together, so Qiu Tu left first, riding in Tan Huimin''s car towards the Investigation Bureau....


    However, he didn''t know that after he left,


    Tang Feifei watched the door with a complex gaze for a while.


    Ultimately, Tang Feifei let out a deep sigh. Then she picked up a communicator and made a call to the Sanctuary.


    Once the call connected, Tang Feifei said expressionlessly, "Second Uncle, Qiu Tu he... "


    Tang Feifei paused for a full two seconds before she finally closed her eyes and said, "He agreed."


    "So clear the Vice Director position for him, keep it open for him."


    "Don''t worry, with his help, and with so many researchers and experts at home, I will definitely be able to gain control of the territory..."


    After chatting a bit more,


    Tang Feifei hung up the phone and took a deep breath.


    Her eyes were deep and sharp, filled with determination.


    So what if she must gain control of the Xinjie Territory alone?


    She could do it by herself!


    As long as she could gain control of the Xinjie Territory, her lies would not be exposed.


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Qiu Tu was unaware that Tang Feifei had deceived her family for him.


    At this moment, he was sitting in the back of the car, resting with his eyes closed, heading towards the Investigation Bureau.


    He didn''t take the front passenger seat today because... Tang Feifei had been a bit too draining the night before, and he was in a cooling-off period.


    Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s exhaustion, Tan Huimin glanced at him several times through the rearview mirror before finally speaking cautiously, "Director... Yesterday''s death of Vice Director Lai seems to have alarmed the state."


    "Chairman Liu headed straight for Xinjie City early this morning."


    "Judging by the time, he should be arriving soon."


    Startled by Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu suddenly opened his eyes and said with a bit of surprise, "So fast?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu felt something was not quite right, "Who told you this news?"


    -------


    Chapter complete with 10,000 words, ha! Looking for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 537 - 331

    Qiu Tu''s suspicions were not without reason.


    Tan Huimin, due to her identity issues, had actually been somewhat invisible at the Investigation Bureau previously.


    She knew barely anyone and had hardly any sources of information.


    It was only recently, when she became Qiu Tu''s secretary and a key node in Qiu''s faction, coupled with Qiu''s deliberate nurturing, that she gradually developed her own intelligence network.


    But... an intelligence network can''t possibly emerge out of thin air; it must spread through a network of trusted associates, from person to person.


    And the people Tan Huimin could currently reach were simply incapable of accessing state secrets of the kind from the province.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu found it strange where Tan Huimin''s information came from.


    Indeed, upon hearing Qiu''s words, Tan Huimin, while driving, softly explained, "Minister, the information was provided by a judge who claims to be surnamed Liu."


    "She claims to be your friend and tried to call you last night but couldn''t get through. There seemed to be something urgent on her end this morning, and she couldn''t wait any longer, so she called me instead." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "She told me to make sure I inform you as soon as I see you, so that arrangements can be made early."


    "A judge surnamed Liu...?" Upon hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu was first taken aback.


    Then, the image of an alluring and beautiful young woman surfaced in his mind.


    ''Liu Fuping...''.


    Qiu Tu still remembered that last time, to collaborate with Liu Xiongyuan and snatch Yan Chen''s "qi Yun", he had gone through several rounds and made contact with Liu Fuping.


    Liu Fuping had told him that she was undergoing training at the Sanctuary''s Judiciary Court.


    She also mentioned that after the establishment of Dongye State, a dozen cities in the Planning Areas would be unified into one single entity and officially incorporated into the Sanctuary''s system.


    Hence, the Sanctuary required Dongye State to establish a fundamental judicial system, as its governance could no longer be in such chaos.


    And she had been recommended by Liu Xiongyuan, becoming a member of the first batch of this system, that is... a judge.


    Unexpectedly, in just a blink of an eye, a couple of months had passed, and now she had returned to Dongye State and indeed became a judge.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu slowly retracted his thoughts and then inquired of Tan Huimin, "Did she say anything else?"


    Upon Qiu''s query, Tan Huimin nodded and said, "Yes."


    "Judge Liu said... she will be coming to Xinjie City with Chairman Liu for an inspection. She wants to arrange a meeting with you at that time."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu made a hum of acknowledgment, nodded slightly, and then closed his eyes to rest again.


    Liu Fuping''s phone call must not be so simple. But she didn''t know the relationship between Tan Huimin and Qiu Tu, so she hesitated to clarify.


    However, it doesn''t matter. Any issues will become clear upon meeting.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu sat in the back seat of the car, resting with his eyes closed.


    Yesterday, Xinjie City had been washed by a night of rain; the vehicle moved on the muddy road, the wheels rolling, splashing mud, and making a "gurgle gurgle" sound.


    After a year, the road administration of Xinjie City was not done very well, although some main arteries had been paved, most of the roads were still a bit uneven.


    Qiu Tu had heard from Bai Ru that this might be related to Xinjie City''s overall poor finances.


    And while Qiu Tu was thinking this, the car slowly stopped in the parking lot of the Investigation Bureau.


    Tan Huimin was now a competent secretary. Therefore, after stopping the car, she stepped out, her long and smooth legs emerging, and took the initiative to open the door for Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu slowly opened his eyes in the back seat and then stepped out of the car.


    After disembarking, Qiu Tu straightened his clothes and proceeded toward the Investigation Bureau Office Building, accompanied by Tan Huimin.


    By this time, it was the peak of office hours. The office building was incredibly busy.


    Especially since Lai Shun''s death yesterday, and the rumors that Yan Chen would resign to accept responsibility were already rife, the entire Investigation Bureau was somewhat in turmoil.


    As the Local Tyrant of the Investigation Bureau, Yan Chen was like a stabilizing talisman for the entire Bureau.


    Now that this talisman was broken, anyone would feel unsettled.


    Passing through the restless hall, Qiu Tu went up to the 9th floor.


    Compared to downstairs, the 9th-floor Political Department was also busy, but it was evident there was a sense of leadership.


    After all, everyone knew that Qiu Tu was close to Tang Feifei and not on good terms with Yan Chen.


    Now that Yan Chen was likely to resign, Tang Feifei might advance to his position, which meant Qiu Tu''s status in the Investigation Bureau would rise considerably.


    Those in Qiu Tu''s department had nothing to worry about; they just needed to keep their heads down and work diligently under Qiu''s leadership.


    Thus, Qiu Tu walked back to his own ministerial office after observing the various facets of life, beginning to tackle the day''s tasks.


    The issue of Lai Shun''s death had indeed caused a major commotion, and the Political Department was under a lot of pressure.


    But since the murderer had been quickly apprehended, what remained was post-incident management.


    Issues such as whether the teahouse that facilitated the Lianzhen Special Combat Team was connected to United Front; how to compensate for the houses damaged in the fierce battle between the Political Department and the Special Warfare Squad; how to arrange the eye-witnesses, etc.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu signed off orders one by one, investigations were carried out, compensations were made, and mouths were sealed...


    In the meantime, two deputy ministers, Zhang Jian and Cai Peiyuan, also came to Qiu Tu''s office to report their work.


    These two deputy ministers were confidants of Yan Chen and Lai Shun''s faction. Since Qiu Tu became minister, they have remained in their own domains, silently working, except when summoned by Qiu.

 Chapter 538 - 331

    It was all just an act, a show of neither opposition nor cooperation.


    But now that Lai Shun and Yan Chen had an incident, the two immediately changed their stance, actively approaching Qiu Tu to ingratiate themselves.


    Qiu Tu, however, didn''t turn them away.


    After all... he had no personal vendetta against them, and they were both quite capable. With them around, the Political Department could operate more smoothly.


    The great man had said it well, "Have more friends, fewer enemies."


    Subordinates like these, who only differed in faction but had no personal conflict and were capable, were the kind Qiu Tu was willing to foster.


    So, he also took the initiative to pour a cup of tea for both of them, as a gesture of "cooperation."


    And when he sent the two of them off, Qiu Tu also checked their loyalty.


    Zhang Jian: 31, Cai Peiyuan: 34.


    Both within the normal range for subordinates. As long as Qiu Tu''s orders were reasonable and lawful, they would carry them out conscientiously.


    Qiu Tu felt this was good enough...


    And so, the morning passed in the blink of an eye.


    Soon, it was noon.


    At 11 a.m., Qiu Tu received a call from Director Zhao, saying that someone from the state had come and was inviting Qiu Tu to a high-level meeting in the conference room on the 12th floor.


    Already mentally prepared for various possibilities, Qiu Tu quickly straightened out his clothes and then went up to the 12th floor with Tan Huimin.


    By this time, the 12th floor was completely locked down, with two rows of guards flanking both sides of the elevator.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin arrive, one of the plainclothes young men with a stern face lingered his gaze on Qiu Tu for a moment, saluted, and then stepped aside.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze lingered on the stern-faced young man for a moment, then he nodded, and led Tan Huimin to the high-level conference room.


    Just as they reached the door of the meeting room, Qiu Tu heard the cursing of old man Liu Xiongyuan!


    "Your mother''s farting dog, shut it!"


    "You with a leek in your pig''s mouth, what elephant are you trying to become? The Deputy Director died in your motorcade, and all you have is ''It was an accident''?"


    "I''m telling you! If it wasn''t for Chairman Huang calling me personally, asking me to keep my cool, I''d have blown your head off with one shot!"


    Hearing the raw and vulgar profanities, Qiu Tu was fine, his facial expression unchanged.


    Tan Huimin, however, was so surprised her eyes widened, and she kept glancing at Qiu Tu as if to ask if she had heard wrong, that someone from the state would berate Yan Chen so directly and openly?


    Qiu Tu shook his head slightly at her, indicating that he would explain it to her later, and then he just stood at the door listening for a while without interrupting.


    After Liu Xiongyuan had been swearing at Yan Chen for twenty to thirty seconds and finally began to drink some water to soothe his throat, Qiu Tu managed a smile and knocked on the door.


    Shortly after, the door to the high-level conference room was opened from the inside.


    A familiar face appeared before Qiu Tu.


    Lightly made up, her eyes brimming with affection and a slight upward tilt at the corners of her eyes showed charm in every glance.


    It was none other than... Liu Fuping.


    Today, Liu Fuping was dressed in a judge''s robe. The slightly oversized robe concealed her enchanting figure.


    But this did not hide her charm; on the contrary, it made one even more curious to explore the unknown secrets and allure hidden under each inch of the fabric...


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Fuping''s eyes lit up slightly, and she reflexively brushed the hair by her cheek, then said softly, "Old leader, long time no see~~"


    That seductive look and the faint smile hanging on her lips pulled Qiu Tu back to those embarrassing moments they once shared in the office... in the bedroom... in the car...


    Back then, Liu Fuping was a little glutton, her mouth brought Qiu Tu immense pleasure...


    Though racy images flitted through his mind, Qiu Tu''s face remained impassive. He smiled and nodded, then said, "Judge Liu, long time no see."


    Perhaps overhearing the conversation outside, Liu Xiongyuan inside raised his voice, "Qiu Tu! Is it Qiu Tu that has come?!"


    "Come in! Let''s talk!"


    Hearing old man Liu''s voice, Qiu Tu replied, then turned to give a couple of instructions to Tan Huimin, telling her to wait outside. After that, he followed Liu Fuping into the high-level conference room.


    The conference room was already full of people by then. The few senior officials who had not died or been arrested were all present.


    There was Bureau Chief Yan Chen, Deputy Director Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, Special Duties Department Director Lin Ting, Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin, and Public Security Department Director Guan Weihua.


    Out of the original nine senior officials, only six remained, a truly sorrowful sight.


    And all of this was inseparably linked to Qiu Tu...


    This made the senior officials'' gazes at Qiu Tu extremely complicated.


    But Liu Xiongyuan was here precisely to support Qiu Tu, so upon seeing Qiu Tu, Liu Xiongyuan showed his first smile since arriving at Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    The dark-skinned old man beckoned to Qiu Tu, then smiling, he said, "Qiu Tu, you''ve done very well this time."


    "The United Front went too far this time, attacking the Deputy Director on the street, and even succeeded."


    "Fortunately, you arrested the United Front Special Combat Team right after the incident." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Otherwise, we in the state would''ve had to face criticism from the Sanctuary."


    As soon as Qiu Tu entered the meeting room, Liu Xiongyuan set the tone for the work of the Political Department: meritorious.


    This essentially absolved Qiu Tu of responsibility in this matter.


    After all, the Political Department was responsible for intelligence work, and there was an implicit responsibility for the attack on the Bureau Chief.


    Knowing they were among shrewd people, the senior officials once again looked at Qiu Tu with complicated expressions.

 Chapter 539 - 331

    But that didn''t include Yan Chen.


    At this moment, the soon-to-be former Local Tyrant of Xinjie City sat in his own place, eyes on his nose, nose on his heart, looking every bit a Buddha entering nirvana.


    Qiu Tu observed the attitudes of the senior officials present.


    Then his gaze lingered on Yu Zhengyi for a moment, after some hesitation, he still smiled and said to Liu Xiongyuan,


    "Thank you, Speaker, for the compliment. Capturing spies and dealing with the Anti-government Armed Forces like the United Front is indeed our Political Department''s duty."


    "It''s not worthy of your praise."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu paused, then said somewhat annoyed, "Moreover, Vice Director Lai''s death is indeed an inescapable responsibility of our Political Department."


    "If we had reported at the time,"


    -------


    --------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face then undid the tie around her waist.


    The next second, her robe slid down, revealing a body in front of Qiu Tu as immaculate as white jade, delicate and meticulous as if sculpted.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, it felt as if his heart skipped a beat.


    But after all, he was a decent man. And he had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he looked down at the "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then he continued to read!


    ''To hell with this "Existence", the meaning of "Existence" lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking that exceedingly vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leapt out of bed, and amidst Fang Tangtang''s startled cries, he scooped her up and pinned her down on the bed....


    The Blue Moon blushed and brought dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to have truly taken on the role of a girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu noticed she frowned slightly several times¡ªyesterday''s "wound" obviously hadn''t fully healed¡ªshe still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu....


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced just how soft and comfortable the roughly equivalent of face cleanser from a lady closest to him was....


    ''Face cleanser is indeed best when self-used!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu also imparted everything he had to Fang Tangtang, guiding her, receiving and unraveling doubts.....


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he already had a quota for taking lives.


    She was a bit confused about that feeling.


    It just seemed incredibly comfortable....


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, yanked off her bath towel, and pounced!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation that she and Liu Fuping had never felt before.....


    That completely different pleasure almost made her want to use her shoulder to resist Qiu Tu''s Yue Xiong, trying to call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu was one hand on her front, one hand pressing her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, constantly unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially when... every time she was about to break, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean into her ear and seductively whisper, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the deal?"


    In that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, being strong-willed from a young age, she could not accept this one-sided "beating."


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing her heart out!


    But... she was, after all, a person who kept her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, during that day and night, she really hadn''t initiated anything with Qiu Tu, nor had she resisted him...


    She was just secretly applying strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer this woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei desperately, giving her hardly any chance to rest!


    Like this, they struggled on until late into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, the 200-square-meter rest room, in every room, was already filled with the traces of their battle...


    As he was drifting off into a drowsy sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he had not advanced to a Cataclysmic, with his body greatly strengthened, and forbade Tang Feifei from taking charge!


    He guessed... after this ordeal, his back would be retiring...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the darkness)]


    ....


    The next day, as the first rays of the morning sun came through,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke from a deep sleep.


    His first instinct was to rub his eyes, but as he lifted his hand, he felt a burst of soreness in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu inhaled sharply, then as the soreness brought him to full awareness, he checked his arms, and belatedly remembered the glorious achievements of the day before and that night.


    Thinking about how he had labored intensely the day before, thinking about Tang Feifei, who was almost broken from the ordeal, he quietly lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back would probably be out of commission from now on.


    With that thought, he moved his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot up to his crown.


    ''Forget it, might as well light one for Yue Kuaye, too, that''s probably ruined as well...'' Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After reflecting silently on the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached out for the person next to him, only to find that his side was already empty, leaving behind only the faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had known all along that this was nothing more than a transaction between them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a little disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no merit, there''s still hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like cutting ties as soon as turning one''s face!''


    However, just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, her legs and body exposed, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    She moved with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily sprinting through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.

 Chapter 540 - 332: The Death of Secretary Bai (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    Although Liu Xiongyuan was irreconcilably angry with Yan Chen for letting go of the murderer who killed his son, as the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State, he was still obligated to handle official matters impartially.


    Therefore, faced with Yan Chen''s reasonable demands and arguments, he did not retort, but instead slowly turned his gaze to Qiu Tu.


    His dark complexion, like an old pine sculpted by the years, had deep and hard wrinkles, each one seemingly recording past hardships and struggles.


    "Minister Qiu, what do you have to say?"


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s words, Qiu Tu was not surprised.


    He looked at Liu Xiongyuan with a confident gaze and said, "Chairman Liu, of course I have evidence."


    "If there were no evidence, this would amount to libel."


    Liu Xiongyuan, seeing the confidence on Qiu Tu''s face, nodded slightly. He then gestured toward Qiu Tu''s seat and said, "Then sit down and explain slowly."


    Qiu Tu responded and walked towards his seat. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After sitting down, Qiu Tu surveyed the high-ranking officials present.


    The expressions of the high-ranking officials present were quite interesting.


    Yan Chen''s eyes were deep, like two bottomless ancient wells, filled with rage and authority.


    This was a rare loss of composure on his part.


    Yu Zhengyi, on the other hand, had his eyes closed, his hands under the table clenched tightly, as if he were engaged in an intense internal struggle.


    Lin Ting, compared to the others who were more calculating, and being Yan Chen''s lapdog, looked worriedly at Qiu Tu and then at Yan Chen.


    As for Guan Weihua and Shi Youxin, they were more composed.


    Although they were aligned with Yan Chen''s faction and had worked with Yan Chen and received his kindness, they were, after all, not his direct and trusted confidants.


    Thus, even if Yan Chen got into trouble, it would not affect them too seriously.


    Still, even so, there was a certain unease on their faces.


    After all, everyone knew that the death of Lai Shun was a bomb that had brought all the dirty internal strife and filth of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau to light.


    Moreover, coinciding with the establishment of Dongye State, no one knew how the state intended to handle the matter.


    Initially, they had hoped to downplay the incident and quickly move past it before the state''s officials took notice.


    But now, it seemed that Qiu Tu had no intention of letting the matter end so easily.


    Therefore, everything would become unpredictable, and everyone became extremely vulnerable.


    Because no one knew if the bomb would explode on them¡­


    After scanning the eyes of everyone present, Qiu Tu also turned his gaze to Liu Xiongyuan and slowly began, "Speaker, my evidence consists of the two reports I have submitted."


    He said, "Five days ago, our Political Department''s espionage division received intelligence. The United Front Special Combat Team had infiltrated Xinjie City, seemingly plotting something."


    "Upon receiving the news, I immediately went to the Bureau Chief''s office, report in hand from Chief Guan Xiao of the espionage division, to report this matter to the Bureau Chief."


    "Chief Guan Xiao can testify to this. The division chiefs and section chiefs outside the Bureau Chief''s door at that time, including Deputy Division Chief Zhao, can all testify."


    "However¡­ after I reported the matter, Director Yan took the report and told me not to take any action."


    "He cited the current lack of strength of the Investigation Bureau as a reason, saying he hoped to wait until you arrived in Xinjie City to handle it."


    On hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Liu Xiongyuan glanced impassively at Yan Chen.


    All those present were astute, and it only took a moment for them to infer Yan Chen''s motive.


    Yan Chen also seemed to be contemplating, with his eyelids drooping down and returning to his usual inscrutable expression, quietly listening to Qiu Tu''s narration.


    Qiu Tu continued, "Although I found it unacceptable at the time, it was, after all, an order from the Bureau Chief, so I ultimately obeyed."


    "But the next day¡­ our spy sent a new piece of intelligence."


    "The information indicated that the United Front Special Combat Team planned to attack Director Yan''s motorcade."


    "Moreover, the United Front Special Combat Team had somehow ascertained Director Yan''s itinerary."


    "They knew that Director Yan was going to attend a meeting at the Municipal Committee on the day Lai Shun, the Deputy Director, was ambushed¡ªthat was yesterday."


    "Since the meeting was convened by City Hall, Director Yan couldn''t change his plans."


    "Even more, they had learned of Director Yan''s usual route and planned an ambush on the road."


    "Considering this situation, I hastily submitted a second report to the Bureau Chief."


    "In the second report, I also specifically included the information on the United Front Base obtained by the Political Department, thinking to take them down in one fell swoop."


    Pausing, Qiu Tu added, "And I''m certain the Bureau Chief had seen this report."


    "Because¡­ the day before yesterday, in front of dozens of middle and senior officials of the bureau, he personally admitted that he had seen my report, and everyone can testify."


    "Moreover, it was because of this report that the action to clear the United Front Base took place the day before yesterday."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yan Chen took a deep breath, his wrinkled face turning red with anger¡­


    Clearly, he never imagined that not only had Qiu Tu seized his "merit," but he was also dirty enough to use it to frame him!


    And what was more critical¡­ he had no way to explain the truth of the matter.


    Because if he explained the truth, he would reveal the plot he and the Lai Shun faction had made to assassinate Qiu Tu.


    This was almost no different from sending Lai Shun to his death.


    ''Such a clever scheme¡­ blocking me at both ends.''


    And as he thought this, Liu Xiongyuan, seated at the head of the room, looked coldly at Yan Chen and asked, "Director Yan, how do you explain this? Are these events true?"

 Chapter 541 - 332: The Death of Secretary Bai (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    Yan Chen shook his head upon hearing the words and then said, "Speaker, what Minister Qiu has accused me of is a fabrication. I am not aware of the attack on my convoy by the Lianzhen Special Combat Team that he''s mentioned."


    Listening to the two of them each standing their ground, Liu Xiongyuan glanced at both and then spoke up, "Since that''s the case, let''s have someone look up both their files."


    At this moment, Liu Fuping, who was standing behind Liu Xiongyuan, nodded slightly and responded, "Yes."


    After speaking, she turned and left the meeting room.


    Not long after, Director Zhao came into the meeting room drenched in sweat, carrying a box of documents.


    Seeing so many high-ranking officials in the room, including the State Speaker, he was obviously very nervous.


    Therefore, he hurriedly placed the documents on the floor and saluted everyone there.


    Known for his thunderous disposition, Liu Xiongyuan clearly disliked such formalities. So he waved his hand and asked directly, "Deputy Director Zhao, Minister Qiu said he had submitted two written materials in the past few days. Is that true?"


    Hearing Liu Xiongyuan''s question, Director Zhao nodded hastily and said, "Yes, yes."


    Liu Xiongyuan asked further, "Have you seen those two materials, Director Yan?"


    Director Zhao, who clearly remembered what happened that day, nodded vehemently again and said, "Yes, Bureau Chief has seen them."


    Hearing this, Liu Xiongyuan looked expressionlessly at Yan Chen, who still sat calmly, and then said, "Then trouble you to look for those two documents. I''d like to see them."


    Upon hearing Liu Xiongyuan, Director Zhao quickly replied, "Right away, Speaker."


    After speaking, Director Zhao began searching through the documents.


    In a short while, Director Zhao found one document. He handed it to Liu Xiongyuan with both hands and said, "Speaker, here are the documents."


    As Liu Xiongyuan read quickly, without even lifting his head, he asked, "Why is there only one? Where is the other one?"


    "This...this..." Director Zhao, upon hearing this and sweating even more profusely, stole a glance at Yu Zhengyi and then whispered, "Speaker, Director Yu took the second document to write a report."


    Hearing Director Zhao''s words, Liu Xiongyuan looked up at Yu Zhengyi and then inquired, "Director Yu, is the report with you?"


    Noticing that he had eventually been dragged into this matter, Yu Zhengyi, who had been keeping his eyes closed, slowly opened them.


    All eyes in the room were focused on him, including those of Qiu Tu and Yan Chen.


    Yu Zhengyi, as if frozen in time, remained silent for a full two seconds before slowly shaking his head, "I don''t have it, Speaker. I''ve never taken that report."


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Director Zhao was dumbfounded.


    He exclaimed, "Ah?" and then said in bewilderment, "But, Director Yu, you clearly took that report yourself."


    "You said you wanted to write a summary, so you took it."


    Yu Zhengyi looked expressionless as he stared at Director Zhao and said earnestly, "Director Zhao, you must be mistaken."


    "Last night, after I finished reading the report in your office, I returned it to you and left the office empty-handed."


    "If you don''t believe me, check the surveillance footage."


    Director Zhao: ??


    The other high-ranking officials: ...


    Silence filled the meeting room.


    The high-ranking officials present were all Old Foxes; the situation made it clear who was lying¡ª


    Director Zhao almost had "guileless" written on his face; of course, he wouldn''t deceive anyone.


    Thus, the only one who could be lying was Yu Zhengyi.


    They quickly pieced together the chain of events in their minds.


    Clearly, Qiu Tu must have indeed written that report, but... Yu Zhengyi took it away when he went to check yesterday.


    Although the real reason Yu Zhengyi helped Yan Chen conceal the truth about sending Lai Shun to his death wasn''t clear, it could only be a few things: personal relationship, Yan Chen having something on him, or factional interests...


    Anyway, Yu Zhengyi''s decision to aid Yan Chen must have been a weighing of pros and cons. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lai Shun was dead, and the dead hold no benefits. But Yan Chen was alive and still in a high position...


    With these thoughts, the looks from several high-ranking officials towards Qiu Tu even carried sympathy and mockery.


    After all, they felt Qiu Tu had been meticulous but had failed to account for human nature. He hadn''t anticipated that Yu Zhengyi would stand by Yan Chen''s side at the critical moment.


    But at this moment... Hearing Yu Zhengyi and Director Zhao speak in this way, Qiu Tu simply chuckled.


    He said, "Director Yu. Since you have read that material, may I ask if I wrote about the Lianzhen Special Warfare Squad intending to attack Director Yan?"


    Yu Zhengyi, having chosen Yan Chen''s side, obviously could not waver. So, with his eyes closed, he resolutely shook his head, "I didn''t see that part of the content."


    "I only saw that the report detailed the situation at the United Front Base."


    Hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Qiu Tu''s smile grew wider.


    He said, "Director Yu, perjury is a serious matter. Are you sure you don''t want to change your statement?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yu Zhengyi hesitated slightly, but ultimately shook his head and said, "I am not committing perjury."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu applauded and said, "Good. Since Director Yu is so committed."


    "Then I believe you must have even burned that document, making it impossible to summon with the Treasure, right?"


    Yu Zhengyi visibly jolted, clearly hit by Qiu Tu''s words where it mattered.


    Yet, at that moment, Qiu Tu slowly added, "Director Yu, the call that prompted you to check the document was made by me."


    "Do you think, if I did not have a backup plan to ensure the document''s safety, that I would have lured you into checking it?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yu Zhengyi''s eyes flared open in disbelief, staring at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu continued, "After I finished writing that document, I intentionally had Director Zhao come to my office to collect it."

 Chapter 542 - 332: The Death of Secretary Bai (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "The camera in my office has recorded everything I wrote and the entire process of Director Zhao taking it away."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the entire meeting room fell silent.


    Yu Zhengyi was dumbstruck, while Guan Weihua, Shi Youxin, and Lin Ting also looked at Qiu Tu with surprised faces.


    Even Tang Feifei, whose expression had not changed since Qiu Tu entered, now looked at him with a complex gaze.


    Thinking three steps ahead for every move and always keeping a few cards up his sleeve.


    Until those cards are revealed, no one really knows what kind of assurances he had made¡­


    Such a person is too frightening.


    And to be at enmity with such a person is even more terrifying¡­


    The only person in the room whose emotions did not change might have been Yan Chen.


    He still sat there calmly, as if everything was unrelated to him.


    It was only when Qiu Tu looked his way that he used his aged eyes to give Qiu Tu a deep glance.


    But with just one look, Qiu Tu''s heart skipped a beat.


    Because he felt that something about Yan Chen was off today: Yan Chen''s silence was too eerie; he seemed to have full confidence in dealing with everything.


    And at that moment¡ª


    Suddenly, the door to the meeting room was knocked with a "thud thud thud."


    Liu Fuping looked towards Liu Xiongyuan. After receiving a slight nod from him, she went to open the meeting room door.


    The next second, the meeting room door opened, and Tan Huimin stood anxiously at the entrance.


    She whispered something to Liu Fuping.


    Liu Fuping looked at her in surprise and then stepped aside.


    All eyes in the room followed Tan Huimin as she walked towards Qiu Tu.


    In this moment, Yan Chen finally made a move, slowly picked up his tea, and gently took a sip.


    At the same time, Liu Fuping also whispered into Qiu Tu''s ear, "Minister, something has happened. Secretary Bai, Director Bai, um¡­ is dead."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu''s pupils contracted slightly. He looked at Liu Fuping in astonishment.


    Liu Fuping gave a slight nod, then added softly, "Before he died, he left an accusation against you, claiming you abused your authority and conducted unauthorized interrogations of the senior staff of the Investigation Bureau."


    "More importantly¡­ he also said you''ve been in collaboration with the Evil God."


    After hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu slowly turned to look at Yan Chen.


    At this time, Yan Chen was delicately savoring his tea as if nothing had happened.


    Obviously, Qiu Tu wouldn''t believe that all this was not his planning!


    Although it didn''t make sense why Secretary Bai would willingly take orders from him, even gambling with his life.


    But now, with such a high-ranking prisoner detained in the Political Department dying and posthumously accusing Qiu Tu¡ª


    Whether it was a deliberate framing or not, Qiu Tu was extremely passive!


    Even if Qiu Tu could prove that his contacts with Larilo and Zhao Ji were authorized by the Security Department and legally extracted intelligence,


    But¡­ this would also mean completely stripping him of his "vest." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Occupying high positions in two institutions and entangled with multiple factions, this is as good as cutting off his own prospects.


    And if he didn''t expose the Security Department, his contacts with the Evil God were illegal in the first place.


    It can be said that after Qiu Tu had cornered Yan Chen on both ends, Yan Chen posed him an equally challenging problem!


    And it wasn''t over yet.


    While Qiu Tu''s mind raced, searching for a solution to the problem, suddenly Liu Fuping''s communicator started buzzing insistently.


    She was the only person in the room whose communicator was allowed to stay on¡ªshe needed to receive important communications from Liu Xiongyuan at any time.


    Whoever was calling her now must have something vitally important to say, so she did not hesitate to answer.


    Moments later, her expression changed once again.


    Seconds later, she hung up the call, swiftly walked up to Liu Xiongyuan, and whispered, "Speaker, Chairman Huang has changed his route and has come to Xinjie City..."


    ---------


    ---------


    Although it didn''t make sense why Secretary Bai would willingly take orders from him, even gambling with his life,


    But now, with such a high-ranking prisoner detained in the Political Department dying and posthumously accusing Qiu Tu¡ª


    Qiu Tu was indeed very passive!


    Even if Qiu Tu could prove that his contacts with Larilo and Zhao Ji were authorized by the Security Department and legally extracted intelligence,


    But¡­ this would also mean completely stripping him of his "vest."


    Occupying high positions in two institutions and entangled with multiple factions, this is as good as cutting off his own prospects.


    And if he didn''t expose the Security Department, his contacts with the Evil God were illegal in the first place.


    It can be said that after Qiu Tu had cornered Yan Chen on both ends, Yan Chen posed him an equally challenging problem!


    And it wasn''t over yet.


    While Qiu Tu''s mind raced, searching for a solution to the problem, suddenly Liu Fuping''s communicator started buzzing insistently.


    She was the only person in the room whose communicator was allowed to stay on¡ªshe needed to receive important communications from Liu Xiongyuan at any time.


    Whoever was calling her now must have something vitally important to say, so she did not hesitate to answer.


    Moments later, her expression changed once again.


    Seconds later, she hung up the call, swiftly walked up to Liu Xiongyuan, and whispered, "Speaker, Chairman Huang has changed his route and has come to Xinjie City..." Now, whoever was calling her must have something vitally important to say, so she did not hesitate to answer.


    Moments later, her expression changed once again.


    Seconds later, she hung up the call, swiftly walked up to Liu Xiongyuan, and whispered, "Speaker, Chairman Huang has changed his route and has come to Xinjie City..." Later, she hung up the call, swiftly walked up to Liu Xiongyuan, and whispered, "Speaker, Chairman Huang has changed his route and has come to Xinjie City..."

 Chapter 543 - 333

    "Huang Shangzong changed his route and came to Xinjie City?"


    Upon hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Liu Xiongyuan was visibly startled.


    He turned his head to look at Liu Fuping and, after seeing her confident expression, he nodded thoughtfully.


    Although Liu Fuping spoke softly, everyone present was at least a Second-Order Cataclysmic, so a trace of alarm appeared on the faces of all the high-ranking officials.


    Guan Weihua, Lin Ting, and Shi Youxin couldn''t help but reveal a trace of joy on their faces.


    After all, everyone present knew that Huang Shangzong was a high-ranking member of the Academic Faction and also the State Council Chairman of Dongye State.


    Coupled with Secretary Bai''s suicide and attack on Qiu Tu.


    His purpose for coming to Xinjie City now was obvious¡ªhe was here to deal with Qiu Tu.


    Thus, the confidants of Yan Chen felt much more at ease.


    After all, the more they interacted with Qiu Tu, the more they were able to sense how formidable he was.


    They were genuinely worried; if even Yan Chen couldn''t withstand Qiu Tu, what would they do?


    They couldn''t just¡­ switch allegiance to this former subordinate, could they?


    That''s what Yan Chen''s confidants thought, and the others were no different. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For instance, Tang Feifei, whose expression had remained unchanged since she had entered the office, finally reacted.


    She raised her head, her wheat-colored face looking worriedly at Qiu Tu while her mind raced, thinking if there was any way to help him.


    As she thought this, her gaze also fell on Qiu Tu''s face.


    But... the moment she saw Qiu Tu''s face, Tang Feifei was suddenly startled.


    Because she saw that there was no trace of panic, insecurity, or surprise on Qiu Tu''s face.


    On the contrary, although his brows were slightly furrowed as if he were pondering, his lips were slightly raised as if... he was smiling?


    In that instant, Tang Feifei even thought she might have seen wrong.


    Qiu Tu was smiling?


    Huang Shangzong was coming to confront him, and he was actually smiling?


    Why?


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but turn her head to glance at Yan Chen and Yu Zhengyi sitting directly opposite her.


    Then, something even stranger happened.


    Yan Chen, who had just been strategizing confidently and drinking tea, was now glaring angrily at Yu Zhengyi.


    On the other hand, Yu Zhengyi looked as if he was relieved. There was no ease on his face, but no tension either, as if... his heart had completely died.


    "What on earth are they playing at?"


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s cold face turned again, this time towards Liu Xiongyuan, who sat at the head of the table.


    She noticed that after his initial surprise, Liu Xiongyuan seemed to have no expression at all.


    Moreover, because Tang Feifei was a Third-Order Peak Cataclysmic with a strong sense, she could even feel an immense relaxation from Liu Xiongyuan.


    Not at all like someone about to face an adversary...


    "What on earth is going on?"


    A State Council Chairman''s visit would normally necessitate special reception arrangements by Xinjie City.


    But this time, Huang Shangzong''s visit was sudden and even unannounced as emergency arrangements.


    Therefore, when Huang Shangzong''s inspection convoy arrived in Xinjie City, the high-ranking officials of the three major institutions were somewhat panicked.


    However, since the chairmen of the Dongye State tend to act decisively, when he learned that the high-ranking officials from City Hall and the military were urgently called to meet him, he sternly forbade it.


    His exact words were: This visit to Xinjie City happened suddenly because there is an important issue to address. Once it''s dealt with, I will leave; no reception is necessary.


    After stopping City Hall and the military from coming, Huang Shangzong''s convoy crossed the entire Xinjie City and stopped at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    Regardless of the circumstances, facing a State Council Chairman, Liu Xiongyuan had to ensure sufficient respect. So he, along with seven senior officials of the Investigation Bureau, waited downstairs early.


    Qiu Tu was, of course, among them.


    Thus, he also saw this legendary Senior Frontier Official for the first time...


    Unlike Liu Xiongyuan''s short, dark stature. Huang Shangzong was very tall, a full one hundred and ninety-five centimeters.


    Though wearing a neatly tailored suit, his muscular physique made the suit bulge impressively, appearing at first glance like a majestic mountain range, emanating an unshakable sense of stability.


    "Strong...So strong..."


    Even without knowing Huang Shangzong''s strength, merely feeling the powerful aura emanating from him, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel an overwhelming sense of an unbeatable opponent!


    Huang Shangzong''s sudden visit and his apparent bad mood.


    When the six high-ranking officials of Xinjie City''s Investigation Bureau came out to welcome him, his piercing gaze just coldly swept across them, then no more.


    Instead, he took the initiative to say to Liu Xiongyuan, "Chairman Liu, can we find a place to talk?"


    As if he had expected this, Liu Xiongyuan smiled and nodded, then turned to Qiu Tu and said kindly, "Minister Qiu, may we borrow your office? Would that be convenient?"


    What could Qiu Tu say?


    He simply nodded calmly, then said, "No problem."


    Following that, he led the two chairmen to the twelfth floor.


    As a senior official of the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu''s room had been heavily damaged in a fierce battle, even the walls were broken, but they had been repaired and restored by that evening.


    Thus, using it for the two chairmen to talk was not disrespectful.


    With that, he ushered the two chairmen into his private office, directed Tan Huimin to pour two glasses of water for them, and then left the office together with Tan Huimin.


    Throughout the whole process, Huang Shangzong and Liu Xiongyuan didn''t exchange a single word, but the former''s piercing eyes kept coldly sizing up Qiu Tu.

 Chapter 544 - 333

    Even as Qiu Tu left the office with Tan Huimin and closed the door, Qiu Tu faintly heard Huang Shangzong starting the conversation with "Is that Qiu Tu?"


    Outside the door, the other six senior officials were already waiting. Their expressions were rather somber.


    After all, a State Speaker and a Sanctuary Member of Parliament had personally come to the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and the grave expression on their faces indicated that someone was going to be in trouble.


    And the most likely ones in trouble were those present.


    Such a high-ranking official, withheld his actions, which made even Tang Feifei, who had a powerful background, feel uneasy¡ªafter all, if Huang Shangzong truly decided to target her, the "Fengtian Faction" would find it difficult to go against his will; there were still basic rules to follow in the political field.


    Qiu Tu, perhaps sensing Tang Feifei''s mood, walked over to her and gently patted her hand.


    Tang Feifei couldn''t help but turn and glance at Qiu Tu, who gave her a reassuring smile.


    It might have been just psychological comfort, but at that moment, Tang Feifei actually felt her mood stabilizing....


    Following this, the two Chairs held a closed-door meeting for over ten minutes before they exited the office


    and took the seven senior officials to the meeting room.


    Huang Shangzong coldly scanned the few individuals present, slammed his hand down heavily on the table, then harshly said, "I came to Xinjie City because your Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has gone too far!"


    "Internal strife! Self-consumption! Scheming!"


    "Do you think this is peacetime?! Are you playing house?!"


    Huang Shangzong''s face was naturally broad and resolute. When he got angry, his thick eyebrows furrowed above his forehead and his eyes roundly stared. His presence was extremely oppressive!


    His gaze swept over the seven senior officials, finally resting heavily on Yan Chen.


    Looking at Yan Chen, Huang Shangzong''s eyes filled with a mix of disappointment and... a trace of murderous intent!


    He emphatically said, "Yan Chen! As the Bureau Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, you bear an inescapable responsibility!"


    Since Huang Shangzong had arrived, Yan Chen''s complexion had already turned pale.


    But now, hearing Huang Shangzong speak so bluntly, Yan Chen''s expression turned even uglier.


    However... the man before him was the State Speaker, the highest ranking official in the state, and also a senior member of his own faction. So he could only sit there without uttering a word...


    Seeing Yan Chen like this, Huang Shangzong took a deep breath, his gaze stern, then once again swept across the few senior officials.


    Then, he loudly declared, "Now is a critical time for the establishment of Dongye State! It''s the crucial moment for the ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan''!"


    "The state does not permit such internal strife among you!"


    "So, whether it''s the attack on Qiu Tu, the death of Lai Shun, or the suicide of Bai Yu! All are to end here!"


    "Since the murderers have already been caught, those who should be sentenced will be sentenced, those who should be executed will be executed! From this point forward, we turn over a new leaf!"


    With that, he looked first at Yu Zhengyi and then at Yan Chen.


    Then, as if he had made a decision, he spoke again, "Additionally, after consultation with Chairman Huang and seeking the opinions of several other Chairs."


    "Yan Chen is no longer suitable to continue as the Bureau Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "Therefore, effective immediately, he is relieved from his position as the Bureau Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "He will be laterally moved to the newly formed Judiciary Court in Dongye State and serve as the Court President!"


    After he spoke, he gave Tang Feifei a deep look and said, "As for the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau... Tang Feifei will temporarily assume the duties of the Bureau Chief."


    Upon hearing Huang Shangzong''s series of personnel changes, the senior officials present looked at each other in bewilderment.


    Tang Feifei was somewhat surprised, while Yan Chen''s face turned ashen. This clearly differed from the original negotiation between the two factions.


    In the room, only Qiu Tu looked relaxed, as if he had anticipated this outcome. He even found a moment amidst the tension to glance at Yu Zhengyi.


    Yu Zhengyi kept his head down, his face showing guilt.


    Clearly... all these changes were related to him.


    Huang Shangzong came in a hurry and left in a hurry. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After announcing the appointments, he barely lingered and promptly took Yan Chen and left Xinjie City.


    He didn''t even allow Yan Chen time to pack his bags.


    The entire process was carried out swiftly and decisively.


    Soon, the outcomes of these two meetings began to spread gradually.


    Upon hearing about Secretary Bai''s death, Yan Chen''s reassignment, and Tang Feifei becoming the Acting Bureau Chief... the entire Investigation Bureau was stunned into silence.


    Everyone had only one thought: So fast, too fast...


    No one had expected that the recent drama would end this way.


    And the final victor turned out to be the Tang Faction?


    Keep in mind, even Huang Shangzong had come! And yet he couldn''t protect Yan Chen?


    And the reassignment to be the President of the Court of Dongye State?


    This newly established institution, in fact, most mid and low-level officials hadn''t even heard of it. It still required some to go around in circles to understand the department''s level and structure.


    According to the official communication from the state, the Court President, belonging to the State Council, directly reports to Deputy Chairman Liu.


    Equal in rank to the various city Bureau Chiefs, responsible for judging major and important cases.


    At first glance... it seemed like a lateral move. But upon closer inspection... it actually seemed a bit marginalizing.


    After all, what is a city''s Bureau Chief? They are the local tyrants of each city, also Members of Parliament of the State Council.


    Even the Chairs vie for their support.


    While the Court President, though sounding impressive, is subordinated to the State Council, under its jurisdiction, also taking commands from Liu Xiongyuan....

 Chapter 545 - 333

    Considering the Investigation Bureaus in various cities might not respect this new department, the power is limited.


    Thus, the power involved is greatly diminished.


    "Demotion... this must be a demotion..."


    Once the position of the Court President became clear to everyone in the Investigation Bureau, most onlookers reached the same conclusion.


    "This time... the Tang Faction, formed by Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu, has clearly triumphed..."


    "It seems like the atmosphere at Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has changed..."


    With this thought, the direction of the entire Xinjie City Investigation Bureau swiftly shifted, and countless people began to focus on the two figures seated on the Investigation Bureau''s throne...


    However, compared to the lower and middle levels caring about the change of regime in the Investigation Bureau,


    the senior officials of the Investigation Bureau were more concerned about the various actions of Huang Shangzong after his arrival today.


    Just like those at the lower levels, the senior officials were also somewhat confused as to why Huang Shangzong, being from the same faction as Yan Chen, would choose to suppress Yan Chen.


    And Huang Shangzong''s exaggerated criticism made them feel a bit chill...


    Thus, they also began to pull their connections, aiming to unearth the real story...


    However, compared to the other senior officials, Qiu Tu was the most composed and the luckiest.


    Because he didn''t need to understand the "truth" ¡ª the "truth" would come to him...


    ...


    At 6 p.m.


    12th floor, Qiu Tu''s private lounge.


    Qiu Tu sat on the sofa, smiling at Liu Fuping who stood before him.


    Liu Fuping gave him a coquettish glance, then playfully said, "My dear minister~~ you really have clout."


    "The Speaker has gone to meet with Commissioner Jiang at City Hall tonight. He was worried you might not understand some things, so he especially sent me to talk to you..."


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu did not talk business right away, but hinted, "So... do I have you all to myself tonight?"


    Hearing this, Liu Fuping giggled.


    After not seeing her for a month or two, her chest seemed even more formidable, quivering as she laughed.


    She laughed


    --------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing a body before Qiu Tu, as exquisite as carved white jade.


    Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heart seemed to race for an instant.


    But after all, he was a proper man. Plus, he had a philosophy book to read tonight!


    Thus, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hand, once, twice... and then kept reading!


    "To hell with ''Existence,'' the meaning of ''Existence'' is in Cao currency!"


    Thinking that extremely vulgar, insulting philosophical thought, Qiu Tu leaped out of bed, to the surprised shriek of Fang Tangtang, scooped her up, and then pinned her down on the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang made love until midnight. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Fang Tangtang really seemed to embrace the role of a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed her frowning several times, the yesterday''s "injury" obviously not completely healed, but she earnestly swayed her body, moving in sync with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized how soft and comfortable the regular use of facial cleanser was...


    ''Facial cleanser is indeed best when used by oneself!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also imparted all he knew to Fang Tangtang, guiding and enlightening her...


    After all, as the Deputy Minister of the Political Department, he already had the quota to kill.


    She couldn''t quite understand that feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripping off the towel from her body, and advanced!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation that she and Liu Fuping never felt before...


    The utterly different pleasure made her want to press her shoulders against Yue Chi''s mouth on Qiu Tu''s face several times, trying to get him to stop.


    But Qiu Tu held her front with one hand, pressed down on her shoulders with the other, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei almost unable to resist.


    Especially... whenever she was about to buckle under, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean in close to her ear, whisper in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the contract?"


    That moment, Tang Feifei really felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, Tang Feifei, always so competitive, of course couldn''t accept this one-sided thrashing!


    Several times she wanted to turn the tables and sing triumph!


    But... she was, after all, someone who kept her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing too rashly to Qiu Tu, in that day and night, she never once took the initiative against Qiu Tu nor resisted him...


    Just silently exerting effort!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, truly exerted tough kung fu.


    He knew, to conquer this woman in front of him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he relentlessly stayed with Tang Feifei, giving her barely any rest!


    Just like this, they struggled until deep into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, that 200-square-meter lounge, every room, was already full of traces of their battle...


    As he drifted off, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If not for being promoted to a Cataclysmic, which greatly enhanced his body, and keeping Tang Feifei from reversing their roles!


    He guessed... after this bout, he might have had to retire his back...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei''s case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (dangers in the dark)]


    ...


    The next day, with the first ray of dawn.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from deep sleep.


    His reflex was to rub his eyes, but as he raised his arm, he felt an ache in his arm and back!


    "Ouch!"


    Qiu

 Chapter 546 - 334: A Short Separation Is Better Than a Wedding (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    ```


    However, both of them knew that serious matters were pressing, so after teasing each other for a few sentences, they began to discuss serious issues.


    Liu Fuping looked at Qiu Tu, a rare seriousness replacing the smile on her face.


    She said to Qiu Tu, "Qiu Tu, do you know why Chairman Huang came?"


    Hearing Liu Fuping''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    "If you don''t know, then let me explain..." Liu Fuping actually did not think Qiu Tu would know. Therefore, after she finished the first sentence, she immediately went on with the second. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, just as she started the second sentence, she realized that Qiu Tu was nodding and not shaking his head.


    Her words were abruptly stifled. Her beautiful eyes blinked gently, a hint of surprise in her voice as she asked, "You know why Chairman Huang came?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said, "What else could it be for? Of course, it''s because of the trouble Yu Zhengyi brought."


    Upon hearing this, Liu Fuping''s eyes blinked, somewhat astonished.


    Qiu Tu leaned back on the sofa, fiddling with a box of matches in his hand, his gaze distant as he mentally ran through the entire process of the incident.


    If he wasn''t mistaken.


    After Yu Zhengyi checked that report, Director Zhao must have made a phone call to report this matter to Yan Chen.


    The old and calculative Yan Chen most likely detected something amiss from Yu Zhengyi''s unusual behavior.


    Therefore, Yan Chen took the initiative to find Yu Zhengyi, and then had a lengthy discussion with him.


    Qiu Tu speculated. During this conversation, Yan Chen must have chosen the lesser of two evils, admitting to the assassination attempt on himself while denying the sending of Lai Shun to his death.


    But... this obviously did not fool Yu Zhengyi.


    Yu Zhengyi, cunning and sly as he was, alongside Shi Youxin, were both notorious "non-stick pans."


    But to be good at being a "non-stick pan," one must have a particular skill, which is to discern danger.


    Ever since Yan Chen advanced to Pseudo Fourth Order and failed in the struggle for Deputy Speaker, he began to become somewhat extreme.


    Previously attempting to assassinate Qiu Tu, and now sending Lai Shun to his death.


    Then who could guarantee that the next one wouldn''t be silencing Yu Zhengyi himself?


    Moreover... Yu Zhengyi certainly wasn''t aware of the cooperation reached between the "Academic Faction" and the "Fengtian Faction."


    He might still think: now Lai Shun is dead, Yan Chen is about to be transferred elsewhere, and Tang Feifei hasn''t taken real control yet. The most suitable candidate to become the Bureau Chief, would be himself...


    So, although Yu Zhengyi outwardly reached a consensus with Yan Chen, promising to stand by Yan Chen''s side, he turned around and reported the matter to Huang Shangzong...


    Who is Huang Shangzong? He is one of the few people truly standing at the pinnacle of the Sanctuary.


    Over the years, what kind of schemes and machinations has he not seen?


    He only pondered the whole incident briefly before probably guessing the truth: the conflict between Yan Chen and Qiu Tu had become fiercely intense, with both sides likely already engaging in mutual assassinations and frame-ups, and even involving other high-ranking officials.


    For a State Speaker, this is absolutely intolerable.


    Especially now, when Xinjie City is the center of the entire Dongye State and a major focus of attention.


    If Xinjie City were to become so chaotic, could the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" still proceed?


    What would be the image of the newly established Dongye State in the eyes of the Sanctuary?


    How would the other cities in Dongye State be managed?


    Especially from Huang Shangzong''s perspective, it was Yan Chen who initiated this "war," the one who failed in an assassination and betrayed his own faction''s teammates.


    So, how could he possibly still tolerate Yan Chen.


    Thus... today, he was likely communicating with the upper echelons of the "Fengtian Faction," looking at how to reach a new agreement with the "Fengtian Faction" while adjusting Yan Chen''s position.


    If Qiu Tu was not mistaken, the bargaining chip that the "Fengtian Faction" originally let go of was definitely something more significant than a Court President. It might be a position second only to Deputy Speaker, or one with even more power than a Bureau Chief.


    Otherwise, with the shrewdness of Huang Shangzong and Yan Chen, it would not be possible for him to agree to such an arrangement.


    As a result, Yan Chen might not have even expected that in the end, it was the high-level officials of his own faction who "betrayed" him.


    As for why Yu Zhengyi clearly betrayed Yan Chen, but still stood by Yan Chen''s side during the recent meeting.


    Of course, it''s because... he knows "family shame must not be spread abroad." The matter of Yan Chen sending his own faction colleagues to their deaths had to fester within his own faction''s belly.


    In public, he certainly must cover up for Yan Chen.


    And moreover... with Huang Shangzong''s temperament, after hearing his report, he wouldn''t possibly tell him his decision on how to handle it.


    So, Yu Zhengyi was actually waiting and gambling all day today.


    That''s why he has been very hesitant and conflicted...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu also raised his head and shared some of his speculations that he could disclose with Liu Fuping.


    After listening to Qiu Tu''s conjectures, Liu Fuping was completely astounded.


    Because... what Qiu Tu said... was even more detailed than what Liu Xiongyuan told her.


    This left her unsure of how to respond for a moment.


    At this time, Qiu Tu seemed to perceive her embarrassment and took the initiative to start a new topic with a smile.


    He said, "Regardless, we can say that we have achieved a great victory this time."


    "Lai Shun from the ''Academic Faction'' has died, Yan Chen has been transferred, and it''s a demotion in disguise."


    "Another ''Academic Faction'' Deputy Director, Yu Zhengyi, did not succeed in becoming the Bureau Chief. Instead, Tang Feifei from the ''Fengtian Faction'' has secured the position."


    "But we must realize, ''Fengtian Faction'' doesn''t have a high-ranking official in Dongye State. Without a leader, they are completely scattered and easy to win over."


    ```

 Chapter 549 - 335

    As he looked at the prompt that popped up before his eyes, a slight glow appeared in Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Yesterday''s drop rate was unexpectedly good!


    Much better than the day before.


    Qiu Tu remembered that just the day before, he only received a standard minimum drop: Larilo''s Loyalty +3, followed by only a small Memory Fragment.


    To his surprise, not only did he obtain a Cataclysmic Treasure today, but he also got a Medium Memory Fragment.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t delay and tapped on the Memory Fragment (Medium), curious to see what useful information he would get this time...


    As Qiu Tu tapped, the next second, he felt the surrounding scene being pulled away, transforming.


    The next moment, when he came back to his senses, he found himself once again "arriving" in the Primitive Forest Region of the Boundless Heart Sea.


    This indicated that the "timeline" of this memory must be after Larilo had taken control of the Xinjie Territory.


    However, unlike the previous two times, this time the trees in the Primitive Forest seemed... much shorter?


    Or rather...


    "Had ''I'' become much taller?"


    With that thought, Qiu Tu tried to glance at the scene below him from the corner of his eye.


    As a result... he was astonished to find that it wasn''t "himself" who had gotten taller, but instead... he was riding on the back of a verdant Giant Dragon!


    The vivid green Dragon was topped with horns shaped like tree branches, each scale on its body gleaming like intricately carved jade artifacts, twinkling with a gentle radiance.


    On either side of its cheeks were two giant fleshy wings that fluttered with each breath.


    The sight was both unfamiliar and familiar...


    Like...


    With that thought, a light suddenly flashed before Qiu Tu''s eyes, remembering where he had seen this Wood Dragon before!


    It was his first entrance into Larilo''s Memory Fragment!


    At that time, Larilo was traveling to the Xinjie Territory with Zhao Ji, seeking to gain control of the region.


    The controller of the Xinjie Territory back then seemed to be a Fourth-Order Wood Dragon!


    The grand battle between the three had left a deep impression on Qiu Tu, which was why he still remembered it up to now.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but compare the two in his mind.


    He wondered if it was because "Larilo" had become stronger in this period or if something was wrong with this Wood Dragon.


    In any case, the Wood Dragon beneath him seemed... its aura much weaker, its size much reduced.


    Just like... a miniature version, or perhaps a juvenile.


    Based on the comparison with himself and Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu felt that this Wood Dragon was at most Third Order, and certainly not at its Peak.


    ''Did Larilo revive the Wood Dragon that died before?''


    ''Is it the offspring of the previous Wood Dragon, found by Larilo?''


    "Or is it... that this Wood Dragon is actually the Central Hub of the Xinjie Territory''s control, which re-emerged after Larilo gained control of the entire Region?"


    Due to the lack of clues, Qiu Tu couldn''t determine which guess was the truth for the time being.


    Therefore, he could only continue to follow Larilo''s memory, experiencing this Memory Fragment.


    In the Memory Fragment, Larilo rode the slightly smaller Wood Dragon, surveying the entire Primitive Forest from midair.


    The azure canopy interwoven with the lush Primitive Forest created a vision so beautiful it seemed like a mirage in the ''Boundless Heart Sea.''


    The Wood Dragon''s jade-carved wings unfolded with each flap, accompanied by a whisper of a breeze, stirring the air and creating delicate ripples around them.


    Whenever they flew over a sparser area of trees, "Qiu Tu" would always reach out and touch the second prong of the Dragon''s horn.


    At that moment, the Wood Dragon would gently open its maw and exhale a soft green Dragon''s Breath.


    Wherever the Dragon''s Breath touched, all life revived; the trees seemed to be endowed with new vitality, sprouting tender green buds from their branches and growing more robust, a sight of pure wonder.


    After circling half of the Primitive Forest, "Qiu Tu" directed the Wood Dragon to land on the edge of the forest.


    Jumping down from the Wood Dragon''s head, "Qiu Tu" said to the dragon, "Go back now, Dai Tou." Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing "Qiu Tu''s" command, the Wood Dragon nodded its head, then dragged its long tail to the side of a towering tree.


    When it reached the tree, its tail burrowed into the ground, then the entire Dragon stood up supported by its tail, "rising" on its hind legs, and then its broad wings burst open fiercely.


    The next second, its tail turned into roots and a trunk, the dragon''s head, and wings transformed into the crown, branches, and buds of the tree!


    In just a moment, it became indistinguishable from the other towering trees nearby!


    If it wasn''t for Qiu Tu standing there and quietly watching it change, he would never have guessed, even if he walked right up to it, that it was a Wood Dragon with Third Order strength, and not just another large tree...


    In the meantime, as Qiu Tu was thinking, his environment started to fade away, and when he came back to his senses, he was back in his 12th-floor rest room''s bed.


    The faint scent of Liu Fuping lingered by his side, and he could still feel the soft warmth of a woman''s touch by his hand...


    Despite having experienced the magic of ''Memory Fragments'' multiple times, Qiu Tu was still amazed each time he experienced it firsthand.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu quietly reflected on the scenes from the Memory Fragment, sorting through the useful information.


    First, Larilo wasn''t alone in the Boundless Heart Sea but had a pet, a Wood Dragon named "Dai Tou."

 Chapter 550 - 335

    This indeed matched the information Qiu Tu had seen in the memory fragments before¡ªwhen Larilo was taking Zhao Ji to clean up the Wood Dragon, she did say she wanted to make the Wood Dragon her pet.


    Next, the abilities of that Wood Dragon seemed to relate to healing and growth. From the vitality diffused when it exhaled its green breath, and the crazed growth of trees, it was evident that it was an exceptional healer...


    And lastly, the most important... the Wood Dragon was not weak. In the memories, it already possessed Third Order strength, so over the years, it must have reached at least Third-Order Peak or even Fourth Order power.


    Therefore, the Primitive Forest inside the Boundless Heart Sea was actually very dangerous...


    After all, no one knew if the Wood Dragon might burst out and attack humans who wanted to gain control over that region!


    After sorting out the information from the memory fragments, Qiu Tu shook his head to clear his thoughts. He then looked at the "Memory fragment (small)" he had acquired the day before yesterday.


    Having just obtained such important intelligence and clues, Qiu Tu was already quite satisfied. So even if this "Memory fragment (small)" contained no information, Qiu Tu wouldn''t be disappointed.


    So he directly used the "Memory fragment (small)".


    As Qiu Tu used the memory fragment, the next second, his body froze, and his gaze became a bit unfocused, as if he had been petrified...


    Since there was no one else in the room, the entire break room became incredibly silent...


    If someone happened to enter Qiu Tu''s break room, they''d probably be startled by this eerie scene...


    Like this, after standing still for a full 30 seconds, Qiu Tu''s body suddenly relaxed.


    He gasped for breath as if he had just gone through something, his eyes now filled with surprise and disbelief!


    "It''s actually... the summoning method for the Wood Dragon?"


    "This Wood Dragon turned out to be catalyzed out of the original Wood Dragon''s body by Zhao Ji for Larilo!"


    "And as long as you know the corresponding curse, you can awaken and summon it!"


    "Although the Wood Dragon has intelligence not inferior to humans and won''t obey just anyone who summons it."


    "But... for myself, especially for me who controls Larilo, is that difficult?"


    Thinking this, a hint of excitement appeared on Qiu Tu''s face.


    He had a myriad of ways to extract information about the Wood Dragon from Larilo, then try to control the Wood Dragon!


    And if he could succeed, then when he went to "Boundless Heart Sea" to try for the Xinjie Territory Control Rights, he would have added a formidable force to his arsenal!


    Keep in mind, the Xinjie Territory Control Rights are currently coveted by various factions and families.


    Their research teams sent to the "Boundless Heart Sea" are all guarded by Third Order experts.


    Qiu Tu, a mere Second-order Peak "Little Shrimp," was completely out of his league in their presence.


    Moreover, in the real world where everything revolves around position and power, in the Boundless Heart Sea, position and power are utterly useless.


    Strength is king!


    Even if someone killed Qiu Tu inside, the Investigation Bureau and the Security Department would have no means of investigating.


    So, even though he had been collecting information and methods for regional control, he never once entered the "Boundless Heart Sea"¡ªthat was the reason!


    But now it was different, if he could really control that Wood Dragon.


    A Cataclysmic Creature at the Third-Order Peak, possibly even Fourth Order, fighting on its home turf, and a healer at that!


    Not to mention anything else, at the very least Qiu Tu''s safety was absolutely assured, he could easily explore that region and gain control! S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu wished he could immediately take Larilo out of the safe and then "interrogate" her, Investigator-style, to get more information about the "Wood Dragon"!


    So, he jumped out of bed, hurriedly took a shower, freshened up, and was about to go downstairs to chat with Larilo.


    However, scarcely had he taken the elevator to the 9th floor and returned to his office,


    Qiu Tu had barely had a chance to look at the safe,


    when someone knocked "dong dong dong" on his office door.


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, stopped what he was doing, composed his somewhat agitated mood, and then sat back down in his chair, calling out softly, "Come in."


    The next second, his subordinate, the chief of the Intelligence Section, Guan Xiao, peeked in from outside, smiling warmly at Qiu Tu, "Chief~ Are you at work?"


    Qiu Tu:...


    Seriously speaking, although it felt like a lack of privacy, Qiu Tu truly believed his subordinate''s intelligence-gathering skills were exceptional.


    ------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words, haha! I kneel and beg for the basic Monthly Ticket at the beginning of the month!


    The book''s title "If You''re Reborn, You Should Fall in Love!"


    ------


    And just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then undid the belt around her waist.


    The next second, her bathrobe slid down, revealing a body as pure and sculpted as white jade before Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu admitted that for a moment, his heartbeat seemed to spike for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Plus, he still had to read that philosophical text tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to the "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then continued reading!


    "Screw the ''Existence'', the meaning of ''Existence'' lies in Cao currency!"


    While thinking those extremely vulgar and philosophically insulting words, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed, and amid Fang Tangtang''s cries of alarm, he picked her up and laid her down on the bed....

 Chapter 551 - 335

    Blue Moon blushed, pulling dark clouds to hide her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang truly embraced her role as a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu saw her furrow her brows several times, yesterday''s "wound" was evidently not fully healed, but she still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable the Facial Cleanser from Boundary E was...


    "Facial Cleanser is indeed best when used by oneself!"


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also generously imparted his knowledge to Fang Tangtang, enlightening and clarifying her doubts...


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he inherently had a quota for taking lives.


    She couldn''t quite understand the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei down on the ground, tore off her bath towel, and overpowered her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she never had with Liu Fuping...


    That completely different pleasure made her want to use her shoulders to resist Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, trying to stop him.


    But Qiu Tu grabbed her from the front, pressing down on her shoulders, making her like a fish out of water, constantly unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was about to give in and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to breach the contract?"


    That moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Truthfully, the always strong-willed her could never accept being unilaterally "trounced"!


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing the song of the freed serfs!


    But... she was, after all, a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu, for agreeing too rashly, during that day and night, she had never actively touched Qiu Tu, nor had she resisted him...


    She was just secretly exerting effort!


    And this time, Qiu Tu really went all out.


    He knew, to conquer the woman in front of him, he must give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei tightly, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    Thus, they struggled on into the deep night, only to eventually fall asleep in each other''s arms. By that time, the 200-square-meter lounge, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was about to drift off, Qiu Tu felt in his heart: Tang Feifei is really strong! And really fierce!


    If it weren''t for his promotion to a Cataclysmic, greatly strengthening his body, and forbidding Tang Feifei from reversing their roles!


    He guessed... after this battle, he would have to retire his waist...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (dangers in the dark)]


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of morning sunlight.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke from deep sleep.


    His reflex was to rub his eyes, but just raising his hand, he felt soreness in his arms and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu gasped, then fully awoke amidst the soreness, checked his arms, and only then belatedly remembered the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking of his hard-working self yesterday, who only buried his head and toiled away, thinking of Tang Feifei, nearly falling apart herself, he silently lit a candle for his waist...


    Feeling like, this waist might be unusable in the future.


    Thinking this, he slightly moved his thigh, the soreness shooting straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, let''s light one for Yue Kua too, probably also ruined...''


    Silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, then only to discover, his side was already empty, leaving behind just a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had always known that their relationship was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there are no merits, there are hardships, right?''


    ''This is too much of a sudden change of face!''


    As he thought this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot and unclothed, holding a bowl of medicine walked over.


    Her legs were long, and her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    Her walking carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard sprinting silently through the jungle, every step filled with power and rhythm.


    Arriving by Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to place the medicine down and coldly said, "Drink it. You had a hard time last night."


    Especially... with the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" possibly taking shape soon, the establishment time for Dongye State Council might be advanced again.


    At that time, he might have to face the threat of Huang Shangzong directly.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had to enhance his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before then.


    Several deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belonged to the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu belonged to the Reformist Faction, Meng Sanzhai belonged to the Fengtian Faction.


    These three, according to the information provided by Yan Chen, except for Meng Sanzhai, should all have no relation to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking of this, he couldn''t help but look towards the person sitting beside him, Ouyang Heng, from the Free Democracy Faction, even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four people supported Qiu Tu!


    And among these four, Meng Sanzhai from the Fengtian Faction was the most indifferent, merely showing his stance in support of Qiu Tu without much talk.


    Indeed worthy of being an Evil God, his every word made others comfortable.


    Beauty is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, people from Zhejiang naturally have hard bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly is what makes driving exciting, sister-in-law is a bit too hasty.


    Mountains are an extremely slow geological era''s wave.


    Beauty? Not sure, just that the flowers are blooming brilliantly, would it not show lack of appreciation if I don''t admire them?


    Thinking this, after successfully increasing Larilo''s Loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer dealt with Larilo... S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ------


    Thinking this, after successfully increasing Larilo''s Loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer dealt with Larilo...

 Chapter 552 - 336 Eat female subordinates tofu~ (10,000 words asking for Monthly Ticket)

    To be honest, Guan Xiao''s question was quite knowingly redundant.


    Among the models of Yue Xiong in women, the teardrop shape is the most appealing.


    After all, this Yue Xiong model perfectly fits the human aesthetic.


    And Guan Xiao... just happened to possess this top-notch Yue Xiong shape.


    So, had she really the nerve to ask if it looked good?


    If it weren''t for Qiu Tu needing to maintain the demeanor and prestige of his rank, he would have longed to reach out and feel that pale, slippery softness...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced again at her delicate figure and insincerely remarked, "Average."


    Qiu Tu was quite an experienced actor, his acting skills profoundly deep.


    But... the attraction was too compelling. So although his expression was perfect, his gaze utterly betrayed him.


    Consequently, Guan Xiao covered her mouth and giggled "giggle giggle."


    With her laughter, her delicate form quivered lightly like tofu, making one''s blood involuntarily quicken a bit.


    This woman, albeit unassuming, was particularly adept at gauging limits.


    After teasing Qiu Tu, she straightened up, hid the scenery inside her uniform behind it, and then turned back to serious matters.


    She loosened a few buttons of her uniform, then pulled out an envelope from her chest and placed it on the table.


    Reaching for the envelope, Qiu Tu was enveloped by Guan Xiao''s faint body fragrance.


    He subdued his emotions, then briefly inspected the envelope.


    It was sealed with wax, and the front read "For Qiu Tu personally."


    Qiu Tu broke the wax seal, then opened the envelope and pulled out a pristine piece of letter paper.


    The letter was written in neat script but contained only three brief lines.


    The first line read, "From life comes death, from death comes life."


    The second line read, "In life, a follower of death; in death, the beginning of life." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The third line was... "Meeting at Boundless Heart Sea."


    After reading this cryptic letter, a few question marks popped up in Qiu Tu''s mind.


    The first two lines were from "Zhuangzi," reflecting Zhuangzi''s musings on life and death.


    In general, the meaning was: life is merely the process of death, and death in turn, the beginning of life. It suggested life and death are relative, where there''s life, there must be death.


    But combined with the last line "Meeting at Boundless Heart Sea," the meaning was completely different...


    ''So... did Old Bai really arrange his own suicide as planned by Yan Chen?''


    ''Was his Cataclysmic ability related to life and death?''


    ''Would he be resurrected in the Boundless Heart Sea after his death?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hesitated again.


    Because he felt that Secretary Bai''s ability did not seem purely related to life and death.


    After all... if it were just related to life and death, there was no need for Secretary Bai to go so far around, he could simply indulge excessively and then die on top of a woman, how gratifying?


    And considering Secretary Bai''s uncharacteristic concern and assistance toward himself and Yan Chen... Qiu Tu''s thoughts stirred slightly.


    ''Could it be related to repaying a favor?''


    ''The greater the extent of returning a favor, the greater the benefits received? Perhaps even... transcending life and death?''


    ''So... he had intentionally followed Yan Chen''s hints, got into touch with Larilo, became Larilo''s believer, and committed grave sins.''


    ''Afterwards, having been caught by himself, he cooperated fully and patiently waited for Yan Chen to let him commit suicide?''


    ''And his own constant pressing on Yan Chen ultimately led her to decide to sacrifice him to counterattack him. Thus, giving him the opportunity he had been waiting for?''


    ''So... had he actually helped Secretary Bai?''


    The more Qiu Tu thought about it, the more he felt that this was the truth of the matter, or at least related to his guess.


    Otherwise, there was no explaining Old Bai''s note "Meeting at Boundless Heart Sea."


    And from the conditions of the Boundless Heart Sea, Old Bai''s suicide could possibly have greatly enhanced his abilities.


    After all, unless specific methods were used, only Third-Order and above Catastrophics could enter the Boundless Heart Sea.


    If Qiu Tu remembered correctly, Old Bai''s abilities were not strong; he was just an ordinary First-Order Catastrophic before his death...


    ''Regardless... knowing that Old Bai is still alive somewhere in this world, it''s generally good news.''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu struck a match and set the letter in his hand aflame.


    It was perhaps because Old Bai had always been somewhat enchanted recently. His manner, resembling much like the writings of Speaker Rao Shou from the Eighth Sanctuary Supreme Council.


    And in this world where the mind can impact reality, the purity of thoughts, the level of philosophical realm, and the depth of philosophy could have a significant impact on one''s power.


    Thus, Qiu Tu always felt there was something extraordinary about Old Bai. His "coming to life from death" and resurrection in the Boundless Heart Sea might just be a part of some grand plan of his.


    But... due to the scarcity of information, Qiu Tu couldn''t ascertain exactly what Old Bai was plotting.


    Fortunately, these matters didn''t significantly concern him.


    So, as he watched the letter slowly turn to ash, Qiu Tu pushed the incident out of his mind.


    Actually... his relationship with Secretary Bai was somewhat strange.


    After he had saved Secretary Bai, Secretary Bai had not uttered a word of thanks, just accepting it nonchalantly.


    Later, when Xinjie City was established, he directly brought Qiu Tu into the Investigation Bureau and recommended him to Yan Chen.


    And when Qiu Tu noticed something amiss in Secretary Bai''s actions, he simply remedied it directly.


    Even when Secretary Bai wished to pass on information to Qiu Tu, he did so with roundabout reminders.


    Thus, their relationship resembled that of gentlemen¡ªcool as water, never over-speaking or inquiring, everything relying on unspoken understanding and trust.

 Chapter 553 - 336: Flirting with a Female Subordinate~ (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Just like this recent matter, since it was confirmed that Secretary Bai hadn''t died, Qiu Tu didn''t care about the other things.


    As for what Secretary Bai was plotting and the extent of its impact, Qiu Tu only knew one thing: Old Bai wouldn''t harm him. That was enough.


    Thinking this, he tossed the letter that was about to burn his fingers into the ashtray, destroying the last clue. Then, with a profound look, Qiu Tu turned his gaze to Guan Xiao.


    At this moment, Guan Xiao stood erect before Qiu Tu, her uniform''s buttons undone down to her navel, revealing two pale, dewdrop-shaped hemispheres on her left and right.


    Truth be told, this semi-concealed state was far more seductive than full exposure.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes lingered on her for a moment before he finally spoke slowly, "Section Chief Guan, you''ve done well."


    "This counts as a merit for you."


    "And on top of that, the spy case within the Lianzhen Special Combat Team, you''ve established two significant achievements in this period."


    "Tell me... what do you want?"


    Guan Xiao was quite a character herself. When Qiu Tu asked, she truly didn''t hold back.


    Her beautiful eyes shimmered as she looked at Qiu Tu, and then, with a seductive smile, she said, "Commander~ I want a promotion, I want to become the vice minister of the Political Department. I... just want to advance so much."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu tapped his fingers lightly on the desk twice, then responded softly with a critique, "You see, you''re being impatient again."


    "If there''s an opportunity, do you think I wouldn''t promote you to vice minister?"


    "But think about it. Yan Chen was just dismissed."


    "Chairman Huang and Chairman Liu just came to our Xinjie City Investigation Bureau yesterday, criticizing our Bureau for lacking unity and excessive infighting."


    "Afterward, they demanded we stop the struggle, saying that no one should inquire into anything that happened before yesterday."


    "In this situation... how could I possibly deal with Vice Minister Zhang using the excuse of a forged suicide note and framing, and then lift you up?"


    At this point, Qiu Tu lightly patted his own face, "That would be slapping the faces of both chairmen."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a hint of disappointment inevitably appeared on Guan Xiao''s face.


    However, for someone as cunning as her, that flicker of disappointment might have been just for show for Qiu Tu.


    Seeing her reaction, Qiu Tu knew he couldn''t let down the heart of his confidant, who was eager to entice him.


    So he picked up the teacup from the desk, took a sip of water, and then laid out his thoughts methodically, "Of course... not allowing infighting, not allowing dredging up past events does not mean we can''t deal with Minister Zhang and give you a promotion..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a light visibly sparked in Guan Xiao''s eyes.


    Whether she was truly excited or just seizing this opportunity to continue seducing Qiu Tu and close their distance, she started walking towards him with her long legs, her boots clacking, until she reached him.


    And then... she sat down on Qiu Tu''s lap, facing him.


    Mind you, her uniform was still unbuttoned.


    So with a simple glance downward, Qiu Tu could see the bounty of softness inside.


    He didn''t hesitate to reach in and gently fondle it.


    Soft and smooth to the touch, she was second only to Fang Tangtang among Qiu Tu''s women.


    Guan Xiao closed her eyes and indulged in the moment for a bit, a light hum escaping from her nose, quickening Qiu Tu''s pulse...


    Having indulged himself with the beauty of his subordinate, Qiu Tu naturally wanted to discuss proper business.


    So he leaned close to Guan Xiao''s ear and whispered his thoughts.


    At the beginning, Guan Xiao still listened with her eyes closed, but by the time Qiu Tu finished outlining his plan, she opened her eyes in surprise and couldn''t help turning towards him.


    Qiu Tu looked back at her with a smile, then inquired, "Well? You think it won''t work?"


    Guan Xiao quickly shook her head, her eyes sparkling, "No... I just think you''re genius, Minister."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    Then he unabashedly lowered his head and took his share of Guan Xiao.


    And it was... just as delicate and smooth as tofu...


    This way, after taking advantage of Guan Xiao for several minutes, just as they were both nearly losing control, Qiu Tu still stopped that multi-billion project.


    Not for any other reason... but because Guan Xiao was different from other women.


    For other women, a connection three inches below the navel leads straight to the heart, hence getting physical can further the emotional bond.


    But Guan Xiao was different; she was deliberately using her allure to entice Qiu Tu, yet her heart remained incredibly clear-headed.


    Thus, in this hunting game, at least initially, Qiu Tu was the prey, and Guan Xiao the hunter.


    So, letting Guan Xiao succeed too easily... would let her set the pace.


    Anyway... Qiu Tu had other women for relief; he wasn''t in a hurry.


    Keeping Guan Xiao on tenterhooks, responding to her seduction and even reversing it to lure her in.


    To make this woman feel she was about to succeed, yet not allowing her to, was the perfect strategy to conquer this type of woman.


    Men have their yearnings, and women have theirs.


    When desire builds up to a certain level, the first person to break is the loser...


    This is the "Emotional Fraud Manual," the 36 strategies for handling women - [Deferment as a Means to Control]. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Specifically for proactive women.


    As for whether Guan Xiao, hung out to dry, would go and seek others for relief just like Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu was confident she wouldn''t.


    The key to the allure of beauty is its scarcity and "one-on-one" nature.


    If Guan Xiao dared to look for other men, then her charm would become worthless to Qiu Tu.


    Given Guan Xiao''s shrewdness, she would clearly understand this...


    ...

 Chapter 554 - 336 - Hitting on a Female Subordinate~ (10k Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    So, with a watery gleam in Guan Xiao''s eyes, Qiu Tu saw her out of the office.


    After leaving the office, Qiu Tu also urged her to get the materials needed for the plan ready in advance.


    Then he prepared to hold a meeting that afternoon to execute the plan...


    Having sent away the reluctant Guan Xiao and closed the door to his office, Qiu Tu''s gaze turned incredibly dark...


    Help Yan Chen against himself?


    Forgery Old Bai''s will to frame himself?


    Did he really think that Huang Shangzong had ordered a halt to the strife, forbidding further infighting, and that he was out of options to deal with him? S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In his previous life, Qiu Tu had seen too many ways to silently handle such matters...


    Now, with Yan Chen gone, it was time for him to consolidate the Political Department''s power and then strive for full control of the Xinjie Territory...


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu snorted lightly and then turned to go to the resting room.


    He hadn''t forgotten about his pet, whose Fourth-order Cataclysmic strength was key to the success or failure of his plan...


    So, he still needed to hoodwink Larilo a bit more...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu entered the resting room of his office, opened the safe, and inside Larilo was playing with herself out of boredom...


    He tapped the altar to catch her attention, took her out, and placed her on the table, then put on a look of regret and guilt...


    Honestly, these actions were somewhat superfluous. Larilo, being shut in a safe all day, would be desperate to talk more even if Qiu Tu didn''t prompt her.


    Thus... Seeing Qiu Tu like this, Larilo immediately asked curiously, "What''s wrong with you? Why the long face?"


    After speaking, she probably wanted to display her sense of humor, so she added a title, "My Grand Pope."


    At this moment, hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu''s guilt intensified.


    He remained silent for two seconds before, with a pained expression, he said to her, "Your Highness... I''m sorry."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a question mark slowly appeared above Larilo''s head: ?


    "What did you do to be sorry for me?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Larilo and then guiltily said, "Your Highness, from now on let''s each go our own way."


    "I''ll call you Your Highness. You call me brother-in-law..."


    Larilo: ???


    The term "brother-in-law" seemed to truly hit a nerve with Larilo!


    She shot up, her crimson eyes fixated tightly on Qiu Tu, then demanded, "What do you mean?!"


    "Are you and Zhao Ji together?"


    Qiu Tu looked down, heaving a deep sigh before saying, "Actually... it''s not exactly being together."


    "I''m just... temporarily sold to her for a few years."


    "When she''s bored of playing with me, I will come back for you, Your Highness."


    Larilo''s forehead veins twitched, "You think... that''s supposed to comfort me?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with a slight helplessness and said, "Your Highness, don''t blame me."


    "I had no other choice..."


    "All because Her Highness Zhao Ji offered too much."


    Hearing this, a trace of doubt flickered in Larilo''s eyes.


    Her crimson gaze still fixed on Qiu Tu, she asked tentatively, "Offered too much?"


    "Zhao Ji is giving you things? What did she give you?"


    All the setup Qiu Tu had done was for this moment.


    So, with all seriousness, he said, "Her Highness Zhao Ji... gave me a pet."


    "A... verdant green Giant Dragon that can transform into a tree!"


    With that, Qiu Tu vividly described the Wood Dragon he remembered in his memory.


    Listening to Qiu Tu''s description, Larilo''s face piled up with more confusion.


    The more she heard, the more it sounded... like her pet, Dai Tou!


    What? Her sister saw her "dead," took her possessions, and seduced her "boyfriend"?!


    -----


    2 chapters, 10,000 characters, ha, vote for the Monthly Ticket!!


    --------


    Now, with Yan Chen gone, it was time for him to consolidate the power of the Political Department and then strive for full control of the Xinjie Territory...


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu snorted lightly and then turned to go to the resting room.


    He hadn''t forgotten about his pet, whose Fourth-order disaster-evolver strength was key to the success or failure of his plan...


    So, he still needed to hoodwink Larilo a bit more...


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu entered the resting room of his office, opened the safe, and inside Larilo was playing with herself out of boredom...


    He tapped the altar to catch her attention, took her out, and placed her on the table, then put on a look of regret and guilt...


    Honestly, these actions were somewhat superfluous. Larilo, being shut in a safe all day, would be desperate to talk more even if Qiu Tu didn''t prompt her.


    Thus... Seeing Qiu Tu like this, Larilo immediately asked curiously, "What''s wrong with you? Why the long face?"


    After speaking, she probably wanted to display her sense of humor, so she added a title, "My Grand Pope."


    At this moment, hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu''s guilt intensified.


    He remained silent for two seconds before, with a pained expression, he said to her, "Your Highness... I''m sorry."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a question mark slowly appeared above Larilo''s head: ?


    "What did you do to be sorry for me?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Larilo and then guiltily said, "Your Highness, from now on let''s each go our own way."


    "I will call you Your Highness. You call me brother-in-law..."


    Larilo: ???


    The term "brother-in-law" seemed to truly hit a nerve with Larilo!


    She shot up, her crimson eyes fixated tightly on Qiu Tu, then demanded, "What do you mean?!"


    "Are you and Zhao Ji together?"


    Qiu Tu looked down, heaving a deep sigh before saying, "Actually... it''s not exactly being together."


    "I''m just... temporarily sold to her for a few years."


    "When she''s bored of playing with me, I will come back for you, Your Highness."


    Larilo''s forehead veins twitched, "You think... that''s supposed to comfort me?"


    Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with a slight helplessness and said, "Your Highness, don''t blame me."


    "I had no other choice..."

 Chapter 558 - 338: Tang Feifeis Promotion! (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, Qiu Tu confirmed that his reflection bore little difference from that of Larilo.


    Moreover, don''t forget that Qiu Tu had "played" Larilo many times in the memory fragments.


    Thus, Qiu Tu understood Larilo''s demeanor, movements, and habits well.


    This made his impersonation even more lifelike.


    It might be a bit difficult to trick Zhao Ji, the Great Evil God, but, fooling a Wood Dragon with not particularly high spiritual wisdom did not seem to be a big issue for Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu did not delay any further and returned to the site of the summoning ritual.


    The whole summoning ritual was very simple, almost identical to the one Qiu Tu used to summon Zhao Ji.


    Seven thick white candles were arranged in a semi-circular formation at the center of the room.


    At the center of the semicircle was a bowl filled with fresh red serpent''s blood.


    Qiu Tu closed the curtains, took out some matches, and lit the seven white candles in sequence.


    The candlelight flickered, casting a dim yellow glow. The seven candles joined together, as if forming a portal to another world...


    Qiu Tu then took out a lizard''s tail, which clearly had been freshly severed, still emitting a faint vitality. When Qiu Tu touched it, the tail even seemed to tremble as if it were alive...


    Taking out a silver-white dagger, Qiu Tu chopped the tail into small sections, then threw them into the bowl of serpent''s blood.


    After that, he fetched some bark and sand, spreading the sand between the candles and the bowl of serpent''s blood.


    Once he had done everything, Qiu Tu held a "Tear of Moonlight" in his mouth, then violently sprayed it over the ritual!


    The next second, the seven flames suddenly shot up three feet high with a "poof!"


    The mist from the "Tear of Moonlight" evaporated under the flames, forming a fog that enveloped the entire room!


    The surroundings seemed to gradually fade away, leaving only Qiu Tu standing in this vast expanse of white fog...


    Time seemed to stretch at that moment, becoming incredibly slow...


    It was hard to say how much time had passed, possibly five minutes, or even ten.


    Just when Qiu Tu thought the ritual had failed,


    Suddenly! A pair of giant serpent''s eyes appeared in the fog.


    The serpent''s eyes were nearly as tall as Qiu Tu and looked incredibly sinister!


    Upon seeing "Larilo," a huge shadow gradually condensed in the room!


    Its body was a dozen meters long with an ugly dragon head, branch-like horns, and a body covered in jade-colored scales, emanating an astonishing presence!


    Even though it was just a shadow, it still gave Qiu Tu an unmatched feeling.


    This was Larilo''s pet, the Fourth Order Catastrophic Creature, Cuiying Dragon Daitou!


    Seeing the giant dragon, Qiu Tu restrained his instinctual fear and in Larilo''s tone, called out, "Daitou!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Cuiying Dragon issued a few "ying ying ying" sounds, then circled around Qiu Tu twice.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu finally felt relieved; it seemed... Larilo had not harmed him.


    Qiu Tu had two reasons for turning himself into Larilo.


    The first was that he was afraid Larilo, cornered by him, might deliberately give him the wrong summoning method to harm him using the Cuiying Dragon.


    Now it seemed... Larilo was not yet ready for a do-or-die battle with Qiu Tu, everything was still under control... S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As for the second reason...


    "Daitou, when I was not here, did anyone approach the central hub?"


    Yes, the second purpose was to extract information from the Cuiying Dragon.


    As Larilo''s mount, whenever she inspected her territory in the "Boundless Heart Sea," she rode it.


    Thus... it should know the location of the central hub of the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region as no one other than Larilo!


    Sure enough, to Qiu Tu''s expectation, upon hearing his question, Cuiying Dragon replied with a few "ying ying ying" sounds.


    Qiu Tu did not understand what it said, but... from the Cuiying Dragon''s reaction, he could tell that it knew what a regional center was!


    And that... was enough!


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu, imitating Larilo''s tone, said, "I am currently outside and temporarily unable to return."


    "Tonight, I will send my boyfriend to find you. Lead him to the regional center; I have a task I need him to do for me."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu did not pay attention to Cuiying Dragon continuing to "ying ying ying," and simply ended the ritual.


    The mist slowly thinned, and the shadow of the Cuiying Dragon gradually disappeared in the space...


    By now, the seven thick candles on the floor had melted completely, the serpent''s blood had dried up, and the lizard tails had also shriveled.


    It was safe to say, the entire scene was a mess.


    Qiu Tu''s figure slowly shifted until he returned to his original form, even the black dress had changed back to the black uniform of the Political Department.


    He pulled out a communicator and dialed a number.


    A moment later, Tan Huimin pushed the door open and walked in.


    Seeing the messy ritual site, she did not say a word, but silently picked up tools and began cleaning.


    Honestly, possibly being a "connected individual," Tan Huimin was the most feminine woman associated with Qiu Tu.


    Gentle, virtuous, considerate, and... attentive.


    As Qiu Tu''s secretary, she could have directed other agents to clean up after the scene was destroyed.


    But, to avoid leaking Qiu Tu''s secrets, she attentively cleaned the entire scene herself.


    Qiu Tu might not have helped, but he kept it in both his eyes and heart.


    Then, he walked to the window, lit a cigarette, and while smoking, reflected on the scenes of his encounters with the Cuiying Dragon, Larilo''s pet.

 Chapter 559 - 338: Tang Feifeis Promotion! (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Because he was not truly Larilo, and could not understand what the Cuiying Dragon was saying, he had no choice but to cut through the confusion swiftly and assign a task to the Cuiying Dragon directly.


    Qiu Tu felt that given the intelligence of the Cuiying Dragon, his correct summoning ritual, and the disguise as Larilo in appearance and voice, he could probably deceive this Cuiying Dragon in such a short period of time.


    Besides, with "Larilo''s" command this afternoon, the Cuiying Dragon would take him to search for the regional center.


    Then, by tonight when he arrived at the "Boundless Heart Sea," Qiu Tu could naturally use the Cuiying Dragon to locate the regional center.


    Moreover, because Qiu Tu was not "Larilo", not knowing what the regional center was or where it was located would seem completely reasonable and would not reveal any flaws.


    As for the fact that the Cuiying Dragon could only make a "yee yee yee" sound, even if Qiu Tu met it, he would not be able to understand or find the regional center....


    Indeed, Qiu Tu was already prepared.


    Don''t forget, more than two months ago, Qiu Tu had obtained two treasures from "Lone Wolf."


    One of them was called the Heart-Connecting Silkworm. (Chapter 152)


    It was a cataclysmic creature similar in appearance to a silkworm with magical abilities.


    That is... the silk it spun could establish a mental connection between two creatures. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Two individuals linked by this mental connection could converse in their minds without making a sound.


    Having such a special cataclysmic creature, once he encountered the Cuiying Dragon, Qiu Tu could directly communicate with it, which would facilitate his search for the regional center!


    ''If I''m lucky... maybe tonight, I can gain control of the regional center?''


    To be honest, the smooth progress of the whole affair even surprised Qiu Tu.


    However, there is no turning back once the bow is drawn. Since he had decided to partake in the competition for the area control rights of the "Boundless Heart Sea", aiming to break through Huang Shangzong''s blockade and ambitiously rise to the position of Deputy Speaker, he must brave any dangers ahead!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze became more resolute....


    At that moment, perhaps sensing Qiu Tu''s pressure, Tan Huimin, after cleaning up the scene, walked up behind Qiu Tu and wrapped her arms around him from behind.


    Then she softly said, "It feels... like you''re under a lot of pressure?"


    Qiu Tu stubbed out the cigarette in his hand, then replied, "It''s not too bad."


    Tan Huimin clearly misunderstood the reason behind Qiu Tu''s stress. Embracing Qiu Tu, she gently leaned her head against his back and softly said, "Today, I followed your arrangement and represented you by Judge Liu''s side."


    "They''re making good progress there."


    "Judge Liu said that Chairperson Liu successfully gained the loyalty of Commissioner Jiang from City Hall."


    "Since Major General Lin Chuan from the military is directly affiliated with General Ye, he merely met him symbolically."


    "Due to the tight schedule, they left Xinjie City by car right after lunch with Commissioner Jiang."


    "Before leaving, Chairperson Liu asked Judge Liu to pass on a message to you not to worry too much about the five-year restriction. After this period, he will find a way to solve it."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words and feeling the soft body behind him, Qiu Tu chuckled and patted Tan Huimin''s hand, then suddenly changed the subject, "Was Judge Liu doing okay today?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin, who was embracing his back, blushed slightly, then gently persuaded, "You guys... don''t play too crazy."


    "Judge Liu still had a hickey on her neck today and occasionally showed bruises on her arms..."


    "And... she kept asking me if I was a Cataclysmic."


    "It seems like she wants to become a Cataclysmic to enhance her physical fitness."


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Liu Fuping is truly worthy of being his "student." Every step followed his own.


    The reason he originally desired so much strength was also because he could no longer stand Tang Feifei''s oppression!


    That woman, leveraging her rank which was higher than his, really squeezed him dry!


    Thus, Qiu Tu had no choice but to seek strength.


    Unexpectedly, now... it was Liu Fuping who was "forced" onto this path.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but worry about the current success rate of the "Cataclysm Awakening Elixir"...


    If only the success rate of the "Cataclysm Awakening Elixir" could be increased a bit.


    Just like that, quietly embracing Tan Huimin for a while, Qiu Tu checked the time, noticing he had only half an hour before the internal meeting at the Political Department he had scheduled with Guan Xiao.


    So he gently patted Tan Huimin''s hand and said, "Let''s tidy up and get ready to go down for the meeting."


    "The Investigation Bureau has changed leadership, and it''s also time to clear out the Political Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s commanding words, a smile appeared on Tan Huimin''s face.


    She genuinely liked the vigorous spirit of this man before her.


    Whether in or out of bed...


    And at this moment, as the two were about to head down for the meeting, Qiu Tu''s communicator suddenly rang.


    Qiu Tu took the communicator from his uniform pocket to check it and saw that it was Tang Feifei''s secretary, Su Xiaowan, who had called.


    ''Why is she contacting me at this time? Could something have happened?''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu answered the call.


    The next second, Su Xiaowan''s crisp voice came through, "Minister Qiu~~ The Bureau Chief has scheduled an urgent meeting of bureau chiefs to unify the thoughts of the upper echelons and briefly sort out the division of labor in each department."


    "Do you have time right now?"

 Chapter 560 - 338: Tang Feifeis Promotion! (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Internal department meetings could always be convened, so Qiu Tu went straight to the point, "Of course, I have time. When is the meeting?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Su Xiaowan said, "You can come to the executive conference room now."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu acknowledged with a response and hung up the phone....


    After hanging up the phone, Qiu Tu had a brief chat with Tan Huimin and asked her to notify Guan Xiao, Cai Peiyuan, Zhang Jian, and a few other section chiefs to push back the meeting by a few hours, and then he left the office for the executive conference room.


    When he arrived at the executive conference room, Tang Feifei was already there.


    Perhaps because of the great power within her grasp, Tang Feifei''s presence was even more imposing.


    She sat sternly in the main seat, her wheat-colored face expressionless, eyes sharp and dangerous, exuding a powerful commanding presence.


    This temperament, utterly different from Yan Chen''s, seemed to foreshadow that her reign over the Investigation Bureau would be drastically different from the Yan Chen era.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei''s gaze did not shift in the slightest, she merely nodded slightly in greeting.


    At this time, two people were already seated beside her, one was Yu Zhengyi, and the other was Shi Youxin.


    The two of them silently drank their tea with relaxed smiles on their faces.


    From the micro-expressions of the two, Qiu Tu speculated that the three must have already had a discussion.


    Even... they most likely had come to the meeting together.


    Deputy Director of Administration, Head of the Organizational Department, along with Tang Feifei, the acting Bureau Chief formerly in charge of the Training Department.


    Tang Feifei had already secured control of half of the Bureau''s departments and power.


    All this in just one day...


    ''This woman really has some tricks up her sleeve...''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also took his seat.


    Possibly because both were preparing to vie for control of the Xinjie District and were rivals, the interaction between them was somewhat awkward, resulting in minimal communication.


    Soon, the other two high-level executives, Lin Ting and Guan Weihua, arrived at the scene.


    Originally there were nine top executives, now only five remained.


    No wonder Huang Shangzong was so furious, believing that the infighting within the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was too severe, and he harshly criticized all the executives...


    At this moment, while Qiu Tu was lost in thought, and seeing that all the personnel had arrived, Tang Feifei slowly began to speak, "Gentlemen. Today, I have officially received the appointment from the state government to become the acting Bureau Chief of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "In the coming period, I will be temporarily managing the Bureau."


    After saying this, Tang Feifei paused, and after seeing that no one objected, she continued, "Yesterday''s harsh criticism from Chairman Huang is vivid in everyone''s mind."


    "Therefore, when it comes to managing the Bureau, I have no other demands, just two words... unity!"


    "The ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan'' has endowed Xinjie City with potential rivaling that of the State Government."


    "Therefore, our important mission upcoming is to ensure Xinjie City''s public security and urban safety."


    "To ensure the ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan'' is executed smoothly!"


    Upon saying this, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed slightly, her sharp gaze sweeping over the five high-level executives present, then she emphatically stated, "I guarantee, as long as no major chaos ensues, the future is bright for everyone seated here!"


    The biggest advantage of someone with backing is the "credibility of their promises."


    If it were Yan Chen who had said this, the executives present would only believe it to a certain extent, perhaps 20 or 30 percent.


    Yan Chen himself was still scheming for promotions and could hardly afford to take care of so many high-level executives.


    But Tang Feifei was different... With the backing of the "Fengtian Faction," her potential was sky-high, and no one knew just how far she could go.


    The resources she had shown could help a few of the people present gain one or two levels of promotion.


    Thus, with just a simple promise, the morale of the high-level executives immediately improved by no small measure.


    Seeing this reaction, Tang Feifei nodded slightly, aware that her plan had succeeded.


    Then... it was time for the main event of this meeting.


    With that thought, she involuntarily turned her gaze towards Qiu Tu...


    -------


    -------- sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''This woman really has some tricks up her sleeve...'' Qiu Tu thought,


    while taking his seat.


    Possibly because both were preparing to vie for control of the Xinjie District and were rivals, the interaction between them was somewhat awkward, resulting in minimal communication.


    Soon, the other two high-level executives, Lin Ting and Guan Weihua, arrived at the scene.


    Originally there were nine top executives, now only five remained.


    No wonder Huang Shangzong was so furious, believing that the infighting within the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau was too severe, and he harshly criticized all the executives...


    At this moment, while Qiu Tu was lost in thought, and seeing that all the personnel had arrived, Tang Feifei slowly began to speak, "Gentlemen. Today, I have officially received the appointment from the state government to become the acting Bureau Chief of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "In the coming period, I will be temporarily managing the Bureau."


    After saying this, Tang Feifei paused, and after seeing that no one objected, she continued, "Yesterday''s harsh criticism from Chairman Huang is vivid in everyone''s mind."


    "Therefore, when it comes to managing the Bureau, I have no other demands, just two words... unity!"


    "The ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan'' has endowed Xinjie City with the potential to rival that of the State Government."


    "Therefore, our important mission upcoming is to ensure Xinjie City''s public security and urban safety."


    "To ensure the ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan'' is executed smoothly!"


    Tang Feifei repeated these points, emphasizing the importance of unity and the potential given by the plan to enhance Xinjie City''s standing.

 Chapter 561 - 339

    Yesterday evening, after hanging up the phone with her second uncle, Tang Feifei had been pondering her relationship with Qiu Tu.


    In fact, after deceiving her second uncle, Tang Feifei felt a bit "regretful".


    She realized her state of mind was incorrect. Qiu Tu was clearly just her "plaything", hmm...at most, a bed partner.


    Although they had cooperated before and Qiu Tu had helped her, this was not a reason to deceive her family.


    Especially since Qiu Tu even dared to become her competitor! This was even less forgivable!


    Therefore, she should suppress him, trample him, and drain him dry!


    Every time she thought about this, Tang Feifei felt a bit regretful.


    She felt she had been too gentle with Qiu Tu when she first met him and had even held back her power, enjoying their time together.


    At that time, she should have squeezed Qiu Tu dry!


    Now... now that she had nurtured Qiu Tu and his power and influence had grown,


    professionally, he no longer cooperated with her. Privately...even if she went all out, she could only just manage to come out on top.


    The more she thought about it, the more Tang Feifei felt regret.


    That''s why she had thought it over...


    Public and private matters still had to be kept separate. She needed to suppress Qiu Tu.


    Of course...after suppressing him, she could also give him some compensation at night¡­


    At this moment, as Tang Feifei was thinking this,


    Qiu Tu too sensed Tang Feifei''s gaze. He blinked slightly, then involuntarily looked up.


    Tang Feifei, with a calm and composed air, her wheat-colored face revealing a wild and boastful nature,


    sat there like a lioness perched on the hills, surveying her own territory.


    And what was more...her eyes were slightly narrowed, deep and sharp, graceful yet dangerous. It was as if...she was plotting something sinister.


    Sure enough, just as Qiu Tu was thinking this, Tang Feifei regained her focus.


    She withdrew her gaze from Qiu Tu and then said with a clear voice, "During the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion'', in order to make our departments work more efficiently,"


    "and to better control the departments during the ''Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan'',"


    "I plan to set up a special affairs task group." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This task group will be directly connected to the Political Department, Public Security Bureau, and Special Service Department."


    "The Action Division of the Political Department, the various Public Security Offices under the Public Security Bureau, and all operation squads of the Special Service Department will be directly led by this special affairs task group."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu, Lin Ting, and Guan Weihua''s expressions changed subtly.


    And the atmosphere in the entire conference room also paused¡­


    Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin had obviously received the news earlier, but even so, they sat in their respective seats, keeping their eyes and nose to themselves, remaining silent.


    Do not think that Tang Feifei''s move was simple; actually... it was a real killer move.


    Because, Tang Feifei was seizing actual power with a nominal position.


    A nominal position without rank, but by being above several departments and then carving out the most crucial powers from them into her hands,


    this was a very clever political maneuver.


    Moreover, and this was more important... take a look at the power blocks Tang Feifei carved out: the Action Division of the Political Department, the Public Security Offices of the Public Security Bureau, the Special Task Squads of the Special Service Department!


    What was this?


    These were all the "soldiers" of the Investigation Bureau!


    Tang Feifei was after successfully wooing Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin and other high levels of the management system, planning to take back all the "military power" of the operational system!


    It could be said, once she completed this step, her power in the Investigation Bureau would be absolute, with no more existence that could check her!


    But the question is... could anyone stop her?


    Obviously not.


    Because apart from her role as the acting Bureau Chief, just counting the votes, she already had three with Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, which was half.


    Moreover... everyone in the Investigation Bureau knew that the relationship between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei was murky.


    So, Guan Weihua and Lin Ting definitely thought this "military power relinquishment" was planned by Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei together, with even less thought of resistance.


    What''s more... Qiu Tu even speculated that Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin decided to side with Tang Feifei because of this misinformation and were defeated one by one.


    After all, Tang Feifei plus Qiu Tu, plus any other high-ranking official, would be more than half in votes. They didn''t dare to bet that the other side wouldn''t yield to the Tang Faction...


    ''Brilliant~''


    Although he was on the receiving end of having his power stripped away, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but admire Tang Feifei in his heart.


    Not for any other reason, just because... the methods Tang Feifei was using were actually the ones he had been planning to use within the Political Department. It was also the plan he had quietly told Guan Xiao that morning...


    This morning, while holding Guan Xiao, the way Qiu Tu surprised her was seizing actual power with a nominal position.


    To better establish a task group, then to independent the Intelligence Section that Zhang Jian held from his hands and place it within the task group, then appoint Guan Xiao to be the group leader or deputy leader.


    In this way, he could evade the accusations of internal fighting, sideline Zhang Jian, and also give Guan Xiao an indirect promotion.


    Only, what he hadn''t expected was, he hadn''t yet used this method, and Tang Feifei had already used it first.


    And moreover, she used it against him...


    However, Qiu Tu''s mind was entirely on controlling the Boundless Heart Sea Region now, so he didn''t mind Tang Feifei''s "suppression".


    After all, if he could control the Boundless Heart Sea Region, what''s to say about being the Head of the Political Department, even the doors to becoming the Deputy Director, Bureau Chief, or even... the Deputy Speaker were completely open to him!

 Chapter 562 - 339_2

    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu just sat there nonchalantly, as if tacitly agreeing.


    Without a word from Qiu Tu, in the eyes of Lin Ting and Guan Weihua, it further solidified the idea that this plan was devised by Qiu Tu to help Tang Feifei.


    All this time at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu''s reputation grew formidable. All the high-ranking enemies he had¡ªJia Shu, Secretary Bai, Lai Shun, Yan Chen... some were dead, some were captured.


    Under these circumstances, how could they dare provoke Qiu Tu?


    Thus, the two exchanged glances, gritted their teeth, and sat still, feigning death, as if they weren''t the ones who had been stripped of their power.


    Observing this situation, a flash of surprise crossed Tang Feifei''s eyes.


    Perhaps even she hadn''t expected things to progress so smoothly.


    So she looked around at the few high-level officials present and continued, "I will personally lead and direct this special task force."


    "If there are no objections, after the meeting, please bring me the files of those department and division chiefs, and I will personally speak with each of them."


    This was effectively a power grab.


    But since Qiu Tu didn''t object, the other high-ranking officials naturally didn''t say anything either and agreed to the request.


    Soon, the meeting ended.


    The officials walked out of the room, ready to start carrying out the tasks assigned by Tang Feifei.


    Qiu Tu was the first to leave. Tang Feifei, upon seeing this, actually wanted to call him back for a chat, even to explain a little...


    But then she thought about the "competitive" relationship between them; her eyes shifted several times, and she ultimately held back...


    So, under the slightly strange looks of the other four high-ranking officials, she also left the high-level conference room second, took Su Xiaowan, and, with her long legs, returned to her office.


    Back in her office, Tang Feifei told Xiaowan to go ahead with her tasks, and she herself walked to the window, looking out at the view and zoning out.


    Honestly... she was slightly surprised that Qiu Tu hadn''t spoken out against her today.


    She had thought that by usurping Qiu Tu''s power, given his character and his thirst for control, he would certainly be angry, annoyed.


    But... Qiu Tu''s demeanor was incredibly calm, without any challenge or opposition.


    ''Is he... angry? Does he seriously consider me an enemy now, preparing to deal with me?''


    ''Or... does he have feelings for me in his heart, deliberately helping me execute my plan so I can take power?''


    The more she thought about it, the more Tang Feifei felt her mind in disarray...


    It wasn''t until now that she suddenly realized she had never truly understood the man who had had his way with her.


    What did he really want? What did he genuinely care about? What was he thinking?


    She knew nothing...


    That man was like a mystery, inscrutable... And yet, she found herself wanting to delve deeper.


    She just stood by the window quietly watching the scenery for a while.


    Internally, Tang Feifei cursed, "Damn it!"


    "Disturbing my dao heart! Affecting my planning!"


    With this thought, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face grew even more stern.


    She took a deep breath, then temporarily pushed Qiu Tu out of her mind!


    What man is as interesting as a career!


    She is the chief of a bureau! A woman ranked among the top three in power in Xinjie City!


    Romantic entanglements will only slow down the pace at which she builds Xinjie City!


    As for Qiu Tu... just a man! It doesn''t matter!


    Thinking this way, Tang Feifei turned around and went back to her desk, starting to deal with official business.


    As the Acting Chief of the Investigation Bureau, she was extremely busy, especially since the Bureau in Xinjie City had been in disarray for several months and it was even busier since she took charge. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, her roots in the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau were still shallow, unlike Yan Chen, who had many confidants to help share the workload.


    Until she truly established her roots and controlled the entire Bureau, everything required her personal attention!


    However, after working hard for more than half an hour, Tang Feifei felt a bit frustrated and stopped her work, pressing a button on her desk.


    Moments later, Su Xiaowan pushed open the door to the office and walked in.


    ---------


    As he thought this, Fang Tangtang bashfully covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, her robe slid off, revealing a body before Qiu Tu as immaculate as white jade, like a finely carved sculpture.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu admitted that, for a moment, his heartbeat accelerated.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Besides, he had to read a book on philosophy tonight!


    So, he lowered his gaze to the book "Existence" in his hand, looked once, twice... and then continued reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the meaning of "existence" is just fucking nonsense!''


    Thinking the extremely profane and dismissive thoughts against philosophy, Qiu Tu leaped off the bed, and amid Fang Tangtang''s yelps, he scooped her up and pinned her down on the bed....


    Blue Moon blushed, bringing clouds to hide her demeanor.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang were engaged in fervent activity until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to have really cast herself in the role of girlfriend. Even though Qiu Tu saw her furrow her brows a few times, yesterday''s "injuries" evidently not fully healed, she still vigorously swayed her form, collaborating with Qiu Tu....


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable the drugstore facial cleanser¡ªin the form of an ordinary person¡ªcould be....


    ''Facial cleanser really is better when used personally!''


    Carrying this thought, Qiu Tu also generously shared all he had, enlightening her bodily with a profound experience.....


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he actually had a quota for legal homicides.


    She didn''t quite understand that feeling.


    It just seemed immensely comfortable....

 Chapter 563 - 339_3

    But at this moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off her bath towel in one swift motion, and pressed down on her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she had never felt with Liu Fuping...


    That utterly different kind of pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth to try and make him stop.


    But Qiu Tu was holding her from the front, one hand pressing down on her shoulder, making her feel like a fish out of water that couldn''t turn over.


    His dominating demeanor left Tang Feifei almost unable to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was about to break, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean into her ear and whisper in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the contract?"


    That moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, the strong-willed her could hardly accept such a one-sided "thrashing."


    Several times she wanted to rise up and sing!


    But... she was after all a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, throughout that day and night, she really didn''t initiate any contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him... S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just secretly exerting all her effort!


    And Qiu Tu, this time he really exerted tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her a memorable experience!


    So, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    Just like that, fighting on until deep in the night, the two finally embraced and fell asleep when exhausted, with every room of that over 200-square-meter lounge already filled with the traces of their battle...


    As he was about to drift off to sleep, Qiu Tu also marveled in his mind: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And so wild!


    If he hadn''t risen to become a Cataclysmic, his body greatly strengthened, and forbidden Tang Feifei from taking control,


    He guessed... after this session, he would have to retire his back...


    [Four and a half days (the case closure time for Yin Caimei)]


    [One and a half days (danger in the darkness)]


    ....


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of morning sunlight.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    His first impulse was to rub his eyes, but just lifting his arm made him feel soreness in his arm and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu took in a painful breath, then awakened through the soreness, checked his arm, and then belatedly remembered yesterday''s magnificent achievements through the day and night.


    Thinking of his hardworking self from yesterday, thinking of Tang Feifei who was almost broken apart, he silently lit a candle for his own back...


    Feeling like his back might really be unusable from here on out.


    Thinking so, he shifted his thighs slightly, the soreness shooting straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, might as well light one for Yue Kuaye as well, probably done for too...''


    While silently lamenting yesterday''s intense battles, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, then realized that his side was already empty, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Though he had known all along that it was just a transaction between them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt somewhat disappointed.


    ''Isn''t there even a little acknowledgment for hard work?''


    ''That''s too much of a cold shoulder!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked over with bare feet, bare legs, and bare body, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs slender, her body curvaceous as if endowed with infinite explosive power and resilience.


    Each step carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily sprinting in the jungle, every step filled with power and rhythm.


    Upon reaching Qiu Tu''s side, she bent over to place down the medicine, then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially...once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" is finalized, the establishment date for the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    Then, he might have to directly face the threat from Huang Shangzong.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had to do his best to advance his position and boost his strength,


    before that time,


    The deputy chiefs of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is from the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu is from the "Reformist Faction," Meng Sanzhai is from the "Fengtian Faction."


    These three people, according to the intelligence provided by Yan Chen, apart from Meng Sanzhai, the rest seemed unrelated to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but glance at Ouyang Heng sitting next to him, Ouyang Heng belonged to the "Free Democracy Faction," even more unrelated to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, Meng Sanzhai of the "Fengtian Faction" was the most indifferent,


    other than showing his support for Qiu Tu, he hardly spoke at all.


    Truly worthy of being called the Evil God, just making others feel comfortable with his words.


    Color is the blade that scrapes the bone, but as everyone knows, us People of Zhejiang have naturally tough bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel makes driving thrilling, sister-in-law is a bit too hasty.


    The mountains are the ever so slow waves of the geological age.


    Color? Not sure, all I see are flowers in full bloom, would it not show my ignorance of romance if I didn''t admire them?


    Thinking this, after successfully winning Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer interacted with Larilo


    ------


    "To comply with the process, and to avoid prolonged nightmares, let''s arrest the Eagle immediately after the Speaker officially takes office"


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at Qiu Tu a bit oddly, then asked, "Chief... you don''t seem surprised by this intelligence?"


    She asked doubtfully, "Don''t you think this intelligence is important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has made such a great contribution, indeed it should be properly commended." "The Intelligence Section has made such a great contribution, indeed it should be properly commended."

 Chapter 564 - 340: Hes Riding a Fourth Rank Creature! (Thanks to the Alliance Hierarch

    Reading Elder Feng''s message, Tang Feifei was suddenly startled, her somewhat relaxed mood immediately tensed up.


    Her gaze became slightly heavy.


    Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature? This was not good news...


    Like the Cataclysmics, each tier the Catastrophic Creatures crossed meant a huge improvement in strength.


    For Third Order Cataclysmics, conventional firearms: small caliber pistols, rifles were already unable to harm them, only heavy firepower weapons such as shoulder-mounted mortars, light howitzers could injure them.


    And for Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creatures, the power of Cataclysmics would undergo another leap. Such single-soldier heavy firepower would be utterly ineffective against them.


    For truly injuring them, one must employ the military''s large-caliber artillery, destructive missiles! Or a Peak Third Rank disaster breeder combat team, or Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmics to take action!


    It could be said, at this strength, there were not many weapons or beings in this world that could restrain or injure them.


    They could be seen as true regional overlords, and the greatest disaster for ordinary humans!


    This was also why Liu Xiongyuan, after advancement to Pseudo Fourth Order, naturally became the Deputy Speaker of the Dongye State Council, and Huang Shangzong was unable to stop him!


    In this chaotic world, strength represented status!


    However... just as the Sanctuary forbids its high-level to advance to Fourth Order, demanding that they must use "false frames" for promotion, all Fourth Rank beings inevitably come under the influence of their own Cataclysm Path, becoming assimilated. Their personality grows more extreme, and their actions more unreasonable.


    Therefore, Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creatures would always have some sort of paranoia, and their temperament skewed. In order to practice their chosen path, they would stop at nothing...


    No one knew what their Achilles'' heel was, perhaps a very trivial matter could provoke them...


    This was also why the major factions and organizations immediately declared martial law and went into a state of defense after discovering this Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature at the "Boundless Heart Sea Outpost Base"...


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s eyes deepened, and she responded seriously to Elder Feng, "Elder Feng, is there a determination of this Catastrophic Creature''s path?"


    Elder Feng, "We are not yet able to determine that. But because of Evil God Larilo, we guess it''s most likely the ''Path of Life.'' However, it still needs to be verified..."


    "Path of Life?" Seeing Elder Feng''s words, Tang Feifei''s grave expression finally relaxed a little.


    If... it really was the Path of Life, it would be a fortuitous misfortune.


    After all, among the six major paths, the ''Path of Life'' was already the most benign, most friendly one. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The beings on this path, for the most part, were full of love for "life" and would not slaughter or destroy as other paths might.


    Although, due to the influence of the Cataclysm Path, they often paid great attention to certain behaviors. For instance, beings of the ''Life-Reproduction'' path had a strong interest in "reproduction"; for instance, beings of the ''Life-Nature'' path could not tolerate "forest destruction" at all...


    But after all... Fourth Rank beings of the ''Life'' path were more like "people"...


    With this in mind, Tang Feifei sent a message to Elder Feng,


    "Elder Feng, be very cautious on your side, and don''t act rashly."


    "I''ll come over tonight and investigate that Catastrophic Creature."


    This time, Elder Feng responded almost instantly.


    "Alright, Fei Yatou. We''ll wait for you."


    "By the way... we received news that Xinjie City''s Security Department''s new chief will enter the Boundless Heart Sea tonight, and then hold a small symposium inside the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "To hear the opinions of the major base leaders and provide the corresponding support."


    Seeing the contents of the message, Tang Feifei''s hands paused slightly.


    ''The new head of the Security Department?''


    ''That woman... named Rain Butterfly?''


    Thinking of that somewhat glamorous woman, Tang Feifei''s eyes flickered.


    Actually... she and Rain Butterfly could be considered "old friends." Because... long before Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei''s few partners included Rain Butterfly.


    Otherwise, she would not have kept Su Xiaowan around and passed on information.


    Even, sometimes when the information was too important, Rain Butterfly would enter Su Xiaowan''s body to exchange some information face to face with Tang Feifei.


    However... to avoid suspicion of leaking department information, Tang Feifei and Rain Butterfly always pretended not to know each other.


    So, Tang Feifei would occasionally pay attention to Rain Butterfly''s situation. This also caused her to be extremely shocked by Rain Butterfly''s promotions during this time.


    Head of Inquiry Division - Head of Security Department''s Intelligence System - Chief of Security Department...


    In just a few months, Rain Butterfly, having established several major achievements, soared up the ranks akin to a rocket!


    Her promotion speed was almost comparable to Qiu Tu.


    If it wasn''t for the Security Departments of various cities not being fully independent yet, still within the military system, Rain Butterfly would have been shoulder to shoulder with Tang Feifei through department promotions.


    Thus, Tang Feifei was quite curious about this legendary figure of the secret frontline...


    Especially now, as she was the Bureau Chief of the Investigation Bureau, many things didn''t have to be so watertight, so she felt that she might be able to have a good talk with Rain Butterfly.


    Even... she felt it possible for the two to become friends...


    With these thoughts, Tang Feifei put the communicator aside and continued to deal with her official duties.


    Possibly awakened by Qiu Tu, the "man-free" Tang Feifei''s mood was now extraordinarily calm, even her work efficiency increased a lot...

 Chapter 565 - 340: He Rides a Fourth Rank Creature! (Thanks to the Alliance Hierarch Golden Jasmine)

    ```


    ...


    A day passed quickly.


    At night, Qiu Tu returned to the villa he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    These past two days, in Qiu Tu''s absence, the young girl seemed a bit bored. When Qiu Tu returned, she was in the dining room, sitting on a chair, quietly arranging flowers.


    She was naturally beautiful, with a petite, oval face and large, watery eyes that exuded innocence and loveliness. Unaware of Qiu Tu''s return, she hadn''t even put on makeup, making her look two years younger.


    The naivety in the corners of her eyes and brows mingled with her body that Qiu Tu had cultivated, becoming increasingly mature¡ªcombined with the amber light, she truly possessed an alluring, almost criminal charm...


    However, Qiu Tu had important matters tonight, so despite craving his own "little white rabbit," he ultimately restrained the palpitations in his heart.


    ¡ª After all, the little white rabbit was always in his hands, there was no rush to consume her now. Better to handle the matters at hand, then peacefully devour her later!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu greeted Fang Tangtang and made small talk, increasing her favorability before heading upstairs to the guest room.


    Locking the door of the guest room, Qiu Tu locked "Slave girl Larilo" in the safe and then retrieved several catalytic treasures that had accumulated over time.


    Including the "Skull Talisman" Shen Lingshuang had crafted for Qiu Tu some time ago(Chapter 302), the "Communication Silkworm," and "Ghostly Map" (Chapter 152), and the Slave Bracelet (Chapter 335).


    The function of the Ghostly Map was to use a small part of one''s spiritual power to create a phantom, a bodyless creature similar in shape to oneself.


    The map would naturally depict the regions where the phantom traveled. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was a treasure specifically for exploring secret realms.


    However... Qiu Tu felt it should also work for mapping his own "Territory."


    As for the "Slave Bracelet," it was even more peculiar.


    According to the "Loyalty Game," placing the bracelet on a creature would allow one to control its actions or command it.


    While the creature remained conscious, it couldn''t control its own body, thus could only obediently follow commands.


    It was a terrifying type of cataclysmic treasure.


    Of course... the more powerful the cataclysmic treasure, the greater the restrictions. This treasure was no exception.


    It not only consumed a certain amount of spiritual power when controlling a "slave," but also... could not control creatures with higher spiritual power than oneself.


    What''s more troublesome is... this bracelet could only be used for 10 hours at a time. Exceeding 10 hours doubled the consumption, and exceeding another 10 hours doubled it again.


    That is to say... controlling a creature for an extended period required vastly superior spiritual power.


    After inspecting all his cataclysmic treasures, Qiu Tu, regardless of whether they could be used or not, kept them all close at hand.


    Based on what he had learned from Tang Feifei about the soul''s "ascension" to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Objects from the material world, as long as carried on one''s person, could appear alongside the being in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    But... if objects in the Boundless Heart Sea were to manifest in the real world, a corresponding price had to be paid.


    This price could be in spiritual power, gold, cataclysmic treasures of the appropriate rank, Cataclysmic Material, etc.¡­


    After recalling all the information about the "Boundless Heart Sea," Qiu Tu prepared everything to carry on him, then, cradling the "Skull Talisman," lay down on the bed and began to sleep...


    Unsure how much time had passed, perhaps a minute, perhaps a full hour.


    When Qiu Tu regained consciousness, he found himself inexplicably standing up from the bed.


    And a towering gate, faint yet dazzling with white light, solemnly stood before Qiu Tu.


    It seemed like an ancient existence, bridging the real world and the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Qiu Tu checked his equipment, confirmed nothing was missing, then slowly pushed the door open and stepped inside.


    The next second, Qiu Tu felt his soul, as it stepped through the light gate, receive a special blessing that prevented it from being scattered by the occasional cataclysmic winds in the Boundless Heart Sea...


    Stepping through the light gate, what appeared before Qiu Tu was a vast, sprawling Primitive Forest.


    Even though he had seen it many times in his memories, the sight of such a massive forest manifested suddenly before his eyes still filled Qiu Tu with awe!


    The towering trees, dozens of meters high, mingled their branches and leaves, forming a vast green canopy that fragmented the sky into irregular blue shards.


    Sunlight filtered through their crowns, creating a mottled pattern of light and shadow on the ground.


    Moss and vines covered the tree trunks, the air was moist and fresh, fragrant with soil and leaves.


    The chirping of birds was continuous, clear and pleasant; tiny insects scuttled through the fallen leaves, searching for food and shelter...


    This seemed like a heavenly paradise. In contrast with the pockmarked appearance of the real world post-calamity, the scene before him seemed to be the true reality...


    ''Is this the Boundless Heart Sea?''


    Qiu Tu was slightly surprised as he looked at the forest before him, then turned his head to look behind.


    Behind him was a pervasive white mist, faint nearby, denser further away, symbolizing the journey into the unknown.


    This was the most perilous checkpoint of the Boundless Heart Sea: without specific coordinates, after navigating through several regions, one might never know their own location or the area of the Boundless Heart Sea they had reached...


    ```

 Chapter 566 - 340: He’s Riding a Fourth Rank Creature! (Thanks to the Alliance Hierarch

    Thinking like that, Qiu Tu withdrew his gaze and then looked at the primitive forest before him.


    He did not rashly enter. Instead... he looked around and, seeing no one, began to summon his "pet," the fourth-order Catastrophic Creature, Cuiying Dragon Daitou, using Larilo''s method!


    ...


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was summoning the Cuiying Dragon,


    about a kilometer away, at the intersection of the forest and the river,


    a small metal-made "Boundless Heart Sea Outpost Base" rose from the ground. It was a [movable base] built expensively by various factions to provide shelter.


    It was generally used for combat deep in enemy territory, exploration of remote wilderness, and the development of the Boundless Heart Sea among other things.


    At that moment, inside one of the conference rooms at the outpost base,


    Tang Feifei was listening to a report from the "Fengtian Faction" expert group.


    The leader of the expert group was the expert Elder Feng, whom Tang Feifei had contacted today.


    Elder Feng was a man in his sixties, his hardships in life evident from his full head of white hair and the wrinkles on his face.


    "After our investigation tonight, we can basically confirm that there indeed exists a dragon-shaped fourth-order catastrophic creature in the Xinjie Territory!"


    "If we didn''t investigate incorrectly, we can roughly determine that this creature is the ''Cuiying Dragon.''"


    "The Cuiying Dragon is a very special dragon-shaped catastrophic creature. Although their physical strength and combat abilities are strong, they love planting trees."


    "In places where they reside, other things might be scarce, but there will never be a shortage of trees. Because... even on the most barren land, they can grow a forest!"


    At this point, Elder Feng paused and then added, "So, this also makes the Cuiying Dragon intolerant of logging, destroying forests, and other such activities."


    "So..." Elder Feng said with a hint of a headache, "Our method of moving forward with logging and gradually searching for the regional center might need to change."


    At the same time, at the outpost base in the Security Department team. Rain Butterfly was also quietly listening to the expert''s report using the "Skull Talisman."


    Hearing that the fourth-order catastrophic creature "loved peace" and generally did not initiate attacks, Rain Butterfly breathed a sigh of relief.


    But upon hearing that this fourth-order creature prohibited the destruction of trees, Rain Butterfly also felt a bit of a headache.


    During development, deforestation was inevitable, and a large amount of Cataclysmic Material was hidden in this primitive forest. How could they not destroy the trees!


    ''If only someone could subdue or drive away that Cuiying Dragon...''


    While Tang Feifei and Rain Butterfly were contemplating this,


    suddenly, a piercing alarm blasted outside the outpost base!


    "Buzz buzz buzz!" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Following that buzzing, Tang Feifei and Rain Butterfly walked over to the window to check!


    Since the two teams were not far apart and had emerged simultaneously, the two ladies caught each other''s eye with a mutual understanding.


    Knowing each other''s identities, the two women, completely different in temperament and appearance, paused for a moment and then nodded slightly to each other in greeting.


    Immediately afterward, they followed the exclamations of the outpost''s staff and looked up into the sky!


    There, in the blue sky... a verdant giant dragon was soaring with its wings spread wide!


    The size, the pressure, the heavy burden it placed on second and third-order cataclysmics, clearly indeed was a fourth-order catastrophic creature!


    However... that was not what really shocked the outpost''s staff.


    What truly shocked them was... on the back of that fourth-order catastrophic creature, it appeared there was also a figure, riding... on it?


    -------


    Chapter has reached 10,000 characters. I am asking for a Monthly Ticket!


    Thank you to "Golden Jasmine" for the 100,000 reward. Congratulations on becoming our book''s Alliance Hierarch! May the boss prosper and the new book be a smashing success!

 Chapter 567 - 341

    The workers who could participate in the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" were all elites from various factions and families.


    Among them, there were no shortages of Second and Third Rank Cataclysmics, whose bodies had undergone multiple enhancements.


    Thus, even though the Giant Dragon was flying dozens of meters high in the sky, it was still caught by their sharp eyes!


    And the figure riding on the dragon''s back was also spotted by them.


    The only thing was¡­ that figure was cloaked in black, concealing all forms beneath it. Furthermore, with a silver mask on the face, one couldn''t discern who it was, let alone¡­ even the gender wasn''t entirely certain.


    They could only make a rough judgment based on the limited body parts and movements that the figure exposed: 70% chance it was a man.


    Although this discovery was minor, it had already drawn the attention of all the workers.


    After all... a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature was terrifying enough; and atop this creature was a mysterious person with unknown strength.


    Generally speaking, those who could subdue a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature were Fifth Order Evil Gods and a few Peak Fourth Rank Evil Gods.


    "Haven''t heard of any Peak Fourth Rank or Fifth Order Evil Gods appearing around Xinjie City, have we?" S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where did he come from?"


    This question lingered in the minds of all the workers who witnessed this scene...


    As they hesitated, they followed the green figure of the Cuiying Dragon. The Giant Dragon spread its vast and powerful wings, circled in the sky, and then headed towards the depths of the Primitive Forest in the Xinjie Territory!


    The terrifying pressure made all the humans below feel as if a giant stone was pressed upon their bodies!


    For someone with merely Second Order strength like Rain Butterfly, her complexion was already pale, her body trembling uncontrollably.


    It was the disparity of Life''s essence, the oppression of the top predator of the food chain! A fear that stemmed from the Soul!


    Only someone like Tang Feifei, with Peak Third Order strength and just one step away from the Fourth Order, had no change in expression.


    She might have detected something off about Rain Butterfly, and with an aloof glance, she flashed by her side and protected Rain Butterfly...


    With Tang Feifei''s aura for protection, Rain Butterfly instantly felt much better.


    She looked at the strong woman before her, thanked her, and said, "Thank you, Director Tang."


    Tang Feifei stood with her hands behind her back beside her, eyes sharp as a drawn sword as she stared at the retreating figure of the Cuiying Dragon. Hearing Rain Butterfly''s words, she nodded slightly and said in a detached tone, "It''s nothing..."


    After speaking, she added, "This new change in the Cuiying Dragon is not a good thing for the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan.''"


    "The Security Department handles all affairs related to Cataclysmic Creatures, and I think we need to have a serious discussion and see if we need to report this to the higher-ups."


    Hearing the conversation turn to work, Rain Butterfly also returned to her normal state. She nodded, a smile appearing on her beautiful face with a hint of heroism, "Director Tang makes a good point. Let''s head this way, we''ll share the information first..."


    ...


    And at this moment, while the two women were sharing intelligence and discussing how to deal with the Cuiying Dragon,


    Qiu Tu, riding on the head of the Cuiying Dragon, was also "dealing" with the Cuiying Dragon!


    He "banged" two fists on the Cuiying Dragon and cursed in his mind using the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm," "Yiyi! Did you do that on purpose?"


    "Why on earth did you fly to the human''s pioneer base?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the Cuiying Dragon underneath made a "y¨©ng y¨©ng y¨©ng" sound.


    But in Qiu Tu''s mind, this "y¨©ng y¨©ng y¨©ng" turned into the milky voice of a little human girl: By accident, I, I... just by accident...


    The voice sounded a bit childish and slightly stuttered as if she wasn''t quite fluent in expressing her inner thoughts...


    And keep in mind that the two were communicating "telepathically." So, this had nothing to do with language ability; it was purely the Cuiying Dragon''s intellectual maturity¡­ was just like that.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu rode atop the Cuiying Dragon, while opening the "Ghostly Map" to draw the entire map of the Boundless Heart Sea Xinjie District, and he thought back to the full process of his recent exchange with the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi... oh, also known as Dai Tou...


    In fact, upon arriving at the Boundless Heart Sea, Qiu Tu had made a lot of preparations.


    Such as slightly altering his stature and appearance with the "Substitute Guise Mirror," and changing his clothes to include a silver mask and cloak.


    And then¡­ he recalled a lot of secrets and details about Larilo and Zhao Ji.


    And then... he prepared several plans for deception, as well as strategies specifically for the Cuiying Dragon...


    Yet when he met the Cuiying Dragon and connected with the Heart-Connecting Silkworm, Qiu Tu found all his preparations were in vain.


    Because... the intellect of this Cuiying Dragon was only comparable to a three- to five-year-old human child.


    Those eyes larger than Qiu Tu''s might look powerful and domineering, but they were clear and foolish¡­


    Before connecting with the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm," seeing the mountain-like figure of the Cuiying Dragon and feeling its terrifying pressure, Qiu Tu, though seemingly calm on the surface, was extremely vigilant within, as if facing a great enemy.


    But then... once connected with the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm," hearing that childish voice like a little girl''s, and the stammering tone of speech, Qiu Tu was instantly filled with question marks.


    But at that moment, the cautious Qiu Tu speculated: could this be a scheme?


    Could it be that the Cuiying Dragon was pretending to be a child, trying to test him?

 Chapter 568 - 341_2

    As a result, after half an hour of probing and pulling information out of the Cuiying Dragon, Qiu Tu confirmed that its spiritual wisdom was that of a child.


    Her strength was so formidable only because Zhao Ji had infused her with the dispersed energy of the previous Cuiying Dragon.


    And since she had spent most of her time since birth either sleeping or planting trees, and considering the naturally long lifespan of dragons, her wisdom hadn''t grown much.


    This became evident when Qiu Tu called her "Dai Tou," which upset her significantly.


    Upon further investigation, Qiu Tu discovered that the original name Zhao Ji gave her after reviving her was "Yiyi."


    Though it was chosen at random, she cherished the name.


    But then she met Larilo, an unconventional master who persistently called her "Dai Tou," "Dai Tou," and even forcefully changed her name.


    Qiu Tu guessed that one of the major reasons Yiyi initially refused to obey Larilo''s commands was because of her name...


    Thus, after calling her "Yiyi" again, even beautifying it to "Yiyi," Qiu Tu gained the trust of the Cuiying Dragon...


    Subsequently, things became easier. With "Larilo''s" groundwork laid that afternoon, along with a complete summoning ritual and a "safe word"...


    Yiyi successfully bowed her dragon head before Qiu Tu.


    So, Qiu Tu tried mounting her, riding atop her body.


    However, due to their lack of previous coordination and Qiu Tu having never ridden a dragon, when Yiyi surged forward with tremendous force and spread her wings to soar, Qiu Tu nearly got thrown from her back!


    He hurriedly grabbed onto Yiyi''s dragon horns!


    Yiyi''s horns were the most fragile part of her body, so in her fright, she began to fly around erratically, eventually reaching the human pioneer base in the region!


    After sorting through the whole event, Qiu Tu returned to his senses and looked at the "Ghostly Map" in his hand.


    Even though he had successfully subdued this Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature, Qiu Tu encountered another problem.


    Yiyi had accompanied Larilo to many places, but she had no idea what a "regional center" was.


    Consequently, lacking alternatives, Qiu Tu could only have her lead him to a few of Larilo''s usual haunts to explore them personally.


    Worrying that none of these locations were the central hub, Qiu Tu pulled out the "Ghostly Map" and summoned his "Phantom Ghost Shadow" to begin mapping the entire primitive forest...


    Yiyi''s flying speed was incredibly fast, and within minutes, she brought Qiu Tu down by a small river.


    ----------


    "Am I the uncontainable, the one you refuse to acknowledge?"


    Roland had transmigrated into the game "Heavenly Ring," becoming the eponymous easter egg character Roland Scott, a scapegoat who bore the brunt of misfortune in the main plot.


    Despite his loyalty to the kingdom, he was stabbed in the back by the royal family. Driven to desperation, he became the stepping stone for the game''s hero''s growth and was posthumously slandered as a criminal, too vile for words, by the very royalty he served!


    With such malicious description in the copy, was Roland going to stand for it? Ridiculous!


    Self-aggrandizement? Collusion with alien races? Uncontainable criminal?


    Fine! Stick to your story! Don''t you dare change your tune!


    I don''t need to listen to the nonsense of you royal vermin! I can do it myself! New Berylman!


    Years later, when Roland sat on the throne of the Duchy of New Berylman and looked down at his ministers, silent as if struck by a cold spell, would he reminisce about that transmigratory afternoon?


    "Roland, court is in session. What are you doing in my place?"


    "Oh¨C Okay, wifey, I''m coming down right now."


    -------- S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied her waistband.


    In the next second, her bathrobe fell, revealing to Qiu Tu a body as flawless as white jade.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu admitted that in that moment, his heartbeat seemed to quicken for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Plus, he had philosophical literature to read tonight!


    So, he looked down at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then he continued reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence," the meaning of ''existence'' is in Cao currency!''


    Thinking these extremely crude thoughts, offensive to philosophy, Qiu Tu leapt out of bed and, to Fang Tangtang''s scream, lifted her up and pinned her to the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling dark clouds to hide her countenance.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang passionately engaged until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to truly embrace her role as a girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu observed her frowning lightly several times, her "injury" from the day before clearly not fully healed, she still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable a plain E-rank facial cleanser could be...


    ''Self-used facial cleansers really are the best!''


    Holding that thought, Qiu Tu imparted all he had to Fang Tangtang, enlightening and clarifying her doubts...


    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he inherently had the authority to take lives.


    She couldn''t quite understand the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu gave her no time to think it over.


    He threw Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off her towel, and pressed on top of her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation she had never felt with Liu Fuping...

 Chapter 569 - 341_3

    The kind of utterly different pleasure almost made her want to use her shoulder to stop Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, trying to call for a pause.


    But Qiu Tu had one hand grasping her from the front, while the other pressed on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to flip over.


    That domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was almost unable to take it, when she wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean into her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, the strong-willed girl she had always been, of course, couldn''t accept this unilateral "bullying"!


    Several times she wanted to rise up like a serf to sing!


    But... after all, she was a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu, during this day and night, she really hadn''t taken the initiative to touch Qiu Tu, nor had she fought against him...


    She was just silently exerting her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had indeed exerted some tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung tenaciously to Tang Feifei, giving her almost no chance to rest!


    Like this, they struggled until late into the night, and only then did they embrace and fall into a deep sleep, while at that time, in the 200-plus-square-meter rest area, every room had long been filled with the traces of their battle...


    As he was about to fall asleep in a daze, Qiu Tu also felt in his heart: Tang Feifei is truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t progressed to being a Cataclysmic, his body greatly strengthened, he would have forbidden Tang Feifei from reversing their roles!


    He estimated... after this ordeal, his back was announcing its retirement...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (Perils in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of sunlight in the early morning.


    Qiu Tu slowly awoke from deep sleep.


    His instinct was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his hand, he felt soreness in his arm and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu inhaled sharply, then woke up completely amidst the pain, examined his arm, and then belatedly remembered the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking of his hard work from the day before, where he had just been diligently toiling, and of Tang Feifei, who was also about to come apart at the seams, he silently lit a candle for his own back...


    Feeling that his back might no longer be of use.


    With this in mind, he shifted his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot straight to the crown of his head.


    ''Forget it, might as well light one for Yue Kua too, probably wasted...''


    Musing quietly about the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached to his side, only to discover the spot next to him was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had always known that it was just a transaction between them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s hard work, right?''


    ''This is just too heartless!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, barelegged, bare-bodied, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long and slender, her curvaceous body seemed to possess an endless explosive power and resilience.


    Her walk carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard moving swiftly and silently through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.


    She came to Qiu Tu''s side, bent over to place the medicine down, then said coolly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... As the Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan is set to start, the establishment of the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    By then, he would likely have to face the threat from Huang Shangzong directly.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to increase his position and strengthen his force as much as possible before then,


    Among the several deputy directors in the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belongs to the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu to the Reformist Faction, and Meng Sanzhai to the Fengtian Faction.


    These three people, according to the information given by Yan Chen, aside from Meng Sanzhai, should have nothing to do with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting beside him, Ouyang Heng was from the Free Democracy Faction, even more unrelated to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, it was Meng Sanzhai from the Fengtian Faction who was the most buddha-like. Aside from showing support for Qiu Tu, he hardly spoke a word.


    Truly worthy of being an Evil God, just opening one''s mouth could make others feel comfortable.


    Beauty is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we People of Zhejiang are born with tough bones. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly makes for a thrilling ride; sis, you seem a bit hasty.


    Mountains are the extremely slow waves of geological ages.


    Beauty? I''m not sure, the flowers are blooming brilliantly, failing to appreciate them would make me seem unromantic.


    Thinking this, after successfully assessing Larilo''s Loyalty, Qiu Tu stopped interacting with Larilo.


    ------


    "In keeping with procedures and to avoid unnecessary complications, we should immediately apprehend Eagle once the Speaker formally takes office."


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him strangely, then asked, "Sir... you don''t seem surprised by this intelligence?"


    She asked with a bit of doubt, "Don''t you find this intelligence important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "You from the Intelligence Section have made such a great contribution, and indeed deserve to be properly praised."


    "As soon as we crack this case, and all these Alliance Special Forces Members have been annihilated, I will formally commend you."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a deep look with her seductive eyes, and then said, "Sir... I''m not sure if it''s just a feeling."


    "I always feel... you seem to know about the Lianzhen Special Combat Team before me?"

 Chapter 570 - 342: Early Morning with Fang Tangtang (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Seeing the small figure at the doorway, Qiu Tu paused and couldn''t help but be stunned for a moment.


    He looked intently and then saw Fang Tangtang sitting next to the study, her frail back leaning against the icy wall of late autumn. Her hands were wrapped around her knees, her body slightly curled up, her head bowed, sleeping lightly...


    The way she was, she must have come to the study, knocked without response, and could only wait silently by the door until she fell asleep.


    It was deep autumn now, and there she was, sleeping on the floor leaning against the wall, unfazed by the cold...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu gently shook his head, a touch of tenderness flashing in his eyes.


    Then he walked over, one hand around the girl''s shoulder, the other supporting her bottom, and he lifted her in a princess carry.


    The girl''s body was lightweight, her chest holding a slight heaviness, but in front of Qiu Tu, a Second-order Peak, she was as light as a cloth doll.


    Thus, Qiu Tu didn''t even need to exert much effort as he carried Fang Tangtang toward the bedroom.


    Perhaps smelling the comforting scent on Qiu Tu, Fang Tangtang slightly stirred and then, resting her head on Qiu Tu''s shoulder, peacefully fell back to sleep...


    Carrying Fang Tangtang to the bedroom, Qiu Tu laid her on the bed.


    After covering her with a blanket, Qiu Tu quietly went to wash up.


    While washing up, Qiu Tu also summarized the information and intelligence he had gathered during his first entry into the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    First off, the most direct observation was... day and night seemed reversed in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    Though it was clearly night in the real world, it was daytime in the Boundless Heart Sea, extraordinarily bright.


    Next was... although the "Boundless Heart Sea" was defined as a "Spirit World," at least for this first entry, Qiu Tu didn''t detect any difference from the real world.


    Originally, he thought that as a world formed by the aggregation of spirits, the Boundless Heart Sea would certainly be bizarre, possibly experiencing some strange changes at any moment.


    But... during the hours Qiu Tu investigated, nothing strange happened.


    Had Qiu Tu not been certain he was in the "Boundless Heart Sea," he might have doubted he was merely teleported to another corner of the real world!


    After all, the physical laws and ecological environments of both worlds were too consistent!


    Lastly¡­ although Qiu Tu had not found the central hub of the region... he wasn''t clueless either.


    He had been to the creek where Larilo bathed.


    Qiu Tu had once visited that creek in Larilo''s memories and remembered the direction of the central hub from there.


    So... according to mathematical theory: two lines on the same plane, as long as they are not parallel, will inevitably intersect!


    Thus, as long as the "Memory Fragment" brings him to another conspicuous region, especially one controlled by Larilo in the Xinjie Territory,


    then theoretically, by sensing Larilo''s directive toward the central hub, he could draw two intersecting lines.


    And the intersecting point of these two lines would be... the location of the central hub!


    This was why Qiu Tu that night wasn''t worried about not obtaining the specific location of the central hub from the Cuiying Dragon.


    Not for any other reason, but because he was confident in his heart! S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this since he had finished washing up, Qiu Tu returned to the bedroom.


    Inside, Fang Tangtang curled up under the blanket, her body trembling slightly.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu paused, then walked to the bed, flipped the blanket, and lay down.


    Lying under the blanket, Qiu Tu reached out and pulled Fang Tangtang into his arms.


    The girl''s body seemed slightly feverish, her body trembling.


    ''Is she running a fever?''


    Qiu Tu turned his head to look out the window.


    It was now early winter; the leaves on the trees outside had long fallen, and the weather had thoroughly cooled down.


    The girl probably caught a chill from sitting on the ground, leaning against the wall with too few clothes on.


    But such a minor illness was nothing to worry about.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu held her in his arms, then slid his hand under her clothes, gently caressing her smooth back.


    The power of the Cataclysmic Power, accompanied by Qiu Tu''s motions, slowly entered the girl''s body, warming her up.


    Restoring the order of her body, returning it to a healthy state.


    The "Order" Cataclysmic Power, after all, was amongst the most suitable for healing injuries and illnesses next to the "Life" Cataclysmic Power.


    Although it might be slightly weaker and slower compared to the "Life" path, it was superior in its gentleness...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, following his usual routine, arranged the "Loyalty Game" and then slowly fell asleep...


    The night passed without words.


    The next morning, Qiu Tu was awakened by a slight movement in his arms.


    He slowly opened his eyes, then looked at the girl in his arms.


    Her face now flush and eyes shimmering, she snuggled into his arms, looking up at him.


    Although her expression was still quite immature... being naturally beguiling, her gaze was like a hook, compelling one to steal another glance... and then another...


    As their eyes met, the girl shyly lowered her head.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu found it amusing, "What''s the matter? We''ve slept together so many times, suddenly shy now?"


    Hearing this, the girl quickly shook her head gently.


    In front of Qiu Tu, she always seemed like a fragile little rabbit, she softly said, "No... it''s just you...holding my...um¡­"


    Qiu Tu hearing this, looked down.


    Sure enough, his hand was on the body part closest to the girl''s heart...

 Chapter 571 - 342: Early Morning with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Due to Qiu Tu''s characteristics, it was almost impossible for one hand to grasp that soft bundle.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu wasn''t embarrassed in the least.


    He continued to pinch it while asking, "Do you know that you had a fever last night?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl clearly looked puzzled.


    She looked up at Qiu Tu and shook her head slightly.


    Qiu Tu said, "It''s probably because you didn''t sleep properly in bed. Instead, you ran to squat at the doorstep of my study."


    He gestured with his head toward the weather outside, "How cold is it now, with your physique, how could you not catch a cold and have a fever?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Fang Tangtang also remembered waiting in vain for Qiu Tu last night, only to fall asleep.


    So she said in a soft voice, lowering her head, "I...I caused you trouble and made you worry."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, then continued, "I''m not worried. After all, it''s not a serious illness."


    "It''s just a bit of a pity."


    Fang Tangtang clearly didn''t understand what Qiu Tu meant.


    So, with a perplexed face, she looked up and asked weakly, "A pity? What''s a pity?"


    Qiu Tu gazed deeply into the girl''s eyes, then lowered his head and nipped her crystal-clear earlobe, whispering at the trembling edge of her ear, "Because... I didn''t try to see what you would be like with a fever of 38 degrees."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the girl''s face turned abruptly red, even redder than when she had her fever last night.


    She stumbled over her words, "I...I..."


    Seeing her reaction, a laugh flickered in the depths of Qiu Tu''s eyes, and then he pulled her into his embrace and drew up the blanket...


    Last night, when Qiu Tu came home, the girl was under the dim light of the dining room, arranging flowers.


    At that time, Qiu had actually begun to have endless fantasies.


    Now, he could also start arranging flowers like the girl...


    Since Fang Tangtang had only just recovered, after 40 minutes, Qiu Tu let her go.


    Allowing the girl to continue lying down to recuperate, Qiu Tu himself got up and took a bath in the bathroom.


    While bathing, Qiu Tu didn''t idle either. He opened and checked the Loyalty Game.


    As expected, last night''s Loyalty Game ended with Shen Lingshuang victorious.


    However, unlike before, Shen Lingshuang didn''t rely on Xiao Bai to defeat Larilo, but on her own.


    This time, she had several throwing knives in her hand, glittering with lightning.


    Even the pixelated screen display couldn''t hide that those knives were no ordinary objects.


    Not only did they leave Larilo covered in cuts, but they could even connect the lightning from several knives to form a Lightning Cage, trapping Larilo on the ground.


    ''Did Ling Shuang create another interesting Cataclysmic treasure?''


    ''It seems... quite powerful...''


    While thinking this, Qiu Tu also checked last night''s Loyalty Game rewards.


    [Larilo Loyalty +3, now 24] sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Memory Fragment (Small)]


    It must be said, Larilo''s Loyalty Game really has a stable drop rate.


    No matter how she was defeated, as long as one is victorious, it consistently increased by three points of Loyalty and dropped a Memory Fragment.


    Qiu Tu felt that even if the Memory Fragments didn''t give him enough clues, just by gradually increasing Larilo''s Loyalty, he would soon be able to figure out the Central Hub of the region.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t delay.


    After washing and drying himself, he promptly clicked on the "Memory Fragment (Small)."


    The surrounding scene changed, warping. The next second, Qiu Tu was in a familiar setting...


    Giant trees rose to the sky, forming a circle, their branches and leaves intertwined, layer upon layer, enveloping an area of nearly several hundred square meters.


    Only the patch of sky above, like a well''s mouth, was left uncovered!


    Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, then his heart filled with jubilation!


    ''Temple?!''


    ''This is Larilo''s Temple!''


    ''I''ve found the second straight line!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu didn''t even care what Larilo was doing but immediately sensed the location of the Central Hub!


    Northeast!


    It was a very clear sensation, clear enough to allow Qiu Tu to draw two straight lines and find the location of the Central Hub!


    Just as Qiu Tu was pondering this, the memory slowly came to an end, and when he came back to his senses, he found himself back in the real world.


    Donning a bathrobe, Qiu Tu left the bathroom and headed straight for the study.


    Once in the study, he took out the "Ghostly Map"!


    The Xinjie Territory was vast, almost six or seven times the size of Xinjie City.


    Hence, although Qiu Tu had spent eight hours charting it on the back of the Cuiying Dragon yesterday, only a small part of the "Ghostly Map" had been completed.


    But! For Qiu Tu, this was already enough!


    Because, the area he had charted just so happened to include the stream where he bathed and the Lariluo Temple!


    Therefore, Qiu Tu excitedly took out a pen and drew two straight lines on the map following the directions he had sensed from those two points!


    The lines intersected in an "unlit" part of the map, obscured only by the misty fog visible on the map.


    Qiu Tu lightly touched the area with his hand.


    ''It seems... this is the location of the Central Hub!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu put away the Ghostly Map, then prepared to head directly to that region atop the Cuiying Dragon when he returned tonight!


    After planning for tonight, Qiu Tu rose from his seat, left the study, and went to check on Fang Tangtang.


    Upon seeing that Fang Tangtang had indeed recovered from the fever and was soundly asleep, Qiu Tu left the villa with peace of mind...

 Chapter 572 - 342: Early Morning with Fang Tangtang (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Tan Huimin had been growing more dedicated ever since she became Qiu Tu''s assistant, arriving early to wait at the villa gate.


    Getting into the car, the two headed toward the Investigation Bureau.


    On the road, Tan Huimin said to Qiu Tu, "Minister, Section Chief Guan just tried to call you but couldn''t get through, so she called me instead."


    Qiu Tu had been deeply immersed in his "lone battle" and hadn''t paid attention to the ringing of his phone.


    So, leaning back in the rear seat and resting his eyes, he asked, "What did she say?"


    While driving, Tan Huimin replied, "She said she reviewed the workgroup''s tasks last night."


    "There are some important new findings she wants to report to you."


    "Also¡­ she mentioned that the spy you had been keeping an eye on has cleared up their matters and returned to the Political Department. She asked what arrangements you have."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu was initially stunned,


    ''His own preferred spy?''


    ''Was he really keeping an eye on a spy?'' S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Immediately, the image of the cute, diminutive cat-girl flashed before his eyes.


    Oh... That legal loli, Miao Xiaoxiao, without clothes and still sporting a tail¡­


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but think of the giant dragon loli he had just tamed the night before¡­


    Had he been falling into a pile of lolis lately?


    A while ago, it was milfs, and now lolis.


    However, his interests were always broad... As long as they were alive, female, beautiful, and well-bodied, he never was picky...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu hummed lightly, saying, "I understand. I''ll meet them shortly."


    Longshan Road wasn''t far from the Investigation Bureau office building, so it only took about ten minutes for Qiu Tu to arrive at the Investigation Bureau.


    Upon reaching the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu, accompanied by Tan Huimin who had parked the car, went to the 9th floor.


    He first went to his office and asked Tan Huimin to invite Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao to his office.


    As for Qiu Tu himself, he secured Larilo in the safe, as was his habit.


    Soon, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao arrived.


    "Minister, hello!" Miao Xiaoxiao greeted respectfully.


    Dressed in a customized black uniform of the Political Department, she looked more professional.


    But perhaps due to her petite size, there was still something endearingly childlike about her.


    Qiu Tu gave her a slight nod, then turned to Guan Xiao, and gesturing to two chairs in front of him, he said, "Please, have a seat."


    Once they were seated, Qiu Tu did not delay, but picked up a teacup, took a sip, and then turned to Guan Xiao, getting straight to the point,


    "Section Chief Guan, you mentioned you have important intelligence to report? What is this important intelligence?"


    Today, Guan Xiao wasn''t displaying her usual languid, flirtatious demeanor; instead, her pretty face was etched with seriousness.


    She didn''t engage in small talk or jokes with Qiu Tu, but said seriously, "Minister, I found... A new Evil God has infiltrated Xinjie City!"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression was unreadable, but he was inwardly startled.


    He asked, "Is the information accurate?"


    Guan Xiao nodded seriously, then added, "I discovered this while reviewing the Intelligence Section''s work."


    "Just a few days ago, in the early hours of the morning, a junior detective from the Public Security Office saw a gigantic whale tail flash across the sky. Immediately afterward, two moons appeared in the sky."


    "At that moment, he thought he was hallucinating from having drunk too much and didn''t take it seriously."


    "However, during his mission that day, he unintentionally heard citizens also mention seeing the whale tail and the twin moons."


    "He immediately felt something was amiss, so he went on to do some specific inquiries."


    "But due to the lack of nightlife in the Planning Area, there were few witnesses¡­"


    -----

 Chapter 573 - 343: Am I the Evil God? (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket)

    Upon hearing this, Guan Xiao''s expression also became more solemn, "He wasn''t sure if it was just one or two people''s illusion, plus there was no way to verify it, so he could only hurriedly report it through special channels."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze slightly sank.


    A whale''s tail as big as a mountain... Double moons hanging in the sky...


    These were certainly not good signs.


    In a world with supernatural powers, especially in a world where the mind can influence reality, any anomaly is not simple.


    It was like the day Larilo fell, when meteors fell from the sky. All these anomalies are likely related to High Order Catastrophists and changes in Cataclysmic Creatures.


    The sudden appearance of a whale''s tail and double moons in Xinjie City likely indicated that an Evil God had infiltrated Xinjie City, affecting the Boundless Heart Sea...


    Therefore, cities controlled by the Sanctuary often monitor celestial phenomena. For instance, the Political Department would require agents from various Public Security Offices to report any abnormal phenomena they discovered.


    After reporting, once verified, contributions would be recorded and rewards given.


    Thus, that agent chose to report after discovering the anomaly...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look up at Guan Xiao and ask, "What happened afterward?"


    Guan Xiao seriously said, "Afterward..."


    She somewhat struggled to find the words, "Because reporting anomalies leads to rewards and merits, agents from the Public Security Offices report intelligence every day."


    "There''s a mixed bag of them. Some claim a cat in their district turned into an old lady, some say trees can talk, and others report ghosts luring men home at night..."


    "This resulted in a pile of intelligence, both useful and useless, accumulating at the Intelligence Section."


    "So, the intelligence reported by that agent didn''t attract the attention of the Intelligence Section and was just tossed aside."


    Guan Xiao''s charming face showed a slight frown, "It wasn''t until I took on intelligence work yesterday and worked overtime with my team to clear out the intelligence that I noticed something was wrong."


    Saying this, she couldn''t help but glance at the dizzy Cat Girl Miao Xiaoxiao beside her, "Actually, this is also Xiaoxiao''s merit."


    "She mentioned another report about a whale."


    "That''s what caught my attention."


    Guan Xiao paused, then said, "After all... Xinjie City is an inland city, there are no whales."


    "Having one piece of intelligence might be normal, but having two in a short time is suspicious."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu glanced at Miao Xiaoxiao.


    Miao Xiaoxiao gave Qiu Tu a toothy grin.


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then looked back at Guan Xiao.


    Guan Xiao said, "So, I specifically had someone organize the information about the whale''s tail."


    "It turned out that on those two days, agents from other, non-adjacent Public Security Offices also reported this phenomenon."


    "This suggests there might really be a problem."


    "And of the three Public Security Office agents, one found the double moons. So... I followed up on the double moons'' clues and found reports from two more agents who also witnessed the double moon phenomenon."


    "This made me even more certain that it might be an invasion by an Evil God."


    Guan Xiao''s analysis was logical, sound, and Qiu Tu had to admit it was very reasonable.


    So, he leaned back in his chair, quietly contemplating the issue of the Evil God''s invasion.


    If he wasn''t mistaken, the whale and the double moons each likely represented an Evil God.


    Thus, Xinjie City now likely faced the invasion of at least two Evil Gods.


    Given that Zhao Ji had just released her aura in Xinjie City, in this situation, the invaders were either irrational or exceptionally powerful.


    Both possibilities were not good signs for the now-turbulent Xinjie City...


    After all, the former could cause massive destruction, while the latter might truly take control of the Xinjie Region of the Boundless Heart Sea...


    In that case, Xinjie City would once again fall under the sway of Evil God forces...


    This could also potentially disrupt Qiu Tu''s own plans. Failing to gain control of the Xinjie Region and becoming unable to become the Deputy Speaker of the State Council...


    What was more frightening was... now the enemy was in the shadow, Qiu Tu in the light.


    Qiu Tu was genuinely worried; the enemy might have already discovered his plans and might even be preparing to "ambush" him...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s eyes darkened for a moment as he quietly leaned back in his chair and pondered...


    With Qiu Tu silent, neither Guan Xiao nor Miao Xiaoxiao spoke.


    They just quietly sat in their chairs, then waited for Qiu Tu to give instructions...


    Thus, the office quieted down for a moment...


    Just like that, Qiu Tu quietly pondered for two minutes before slowly coming back to his senses.


    He looked at Guan Xiao before him and nodded slightly, "I understand the situation now."


    "Section Chief Guan did very well this time."


    "This intelligence is crucial."


    Heartened by Qiu Tu''s praise, a smile briefly appeared on Guan Xiao''s face.


    But that smile quickly vanished as she pulled it back.


    She looked at Qiu Tu with some concern and asked, "So Chief, how shall we proceed?" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu simply instructed, "You two continue investigating the ''whale'' and ''double moons.''"


    "See if there are any other clues."


    "I will also submit a request up the chain and talk to the Security Department to see if there''s any information on these two Evil Gods in the archives."


    "Whether we can confront them or not, at least we need to understand who they are and what tier they belong to."


    "Only with such knowledge can we understand both our enemies and ourselves, and plan accordingly."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao seriously nodded.

 Chapter 574 - 343: Am I the Evil God? (10,000 Characters for Monthly Tickets)_2

    Then she looked toward Miao Xiaoxiao beside her and added, "Additionally, sir... how will Xiaoxiao be arranged?"


    Ever since she had sat down, Miao Xiaoxiao had remained upright in her chair, her gaze distant except for the smile she had shown Qiu Tu earlier.


    Now, hearing the two of them discussing her, she couldn''t help but look over.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze landed on the girl and he realized for the first time that she possessed silky black hair that gently fell over her shoulders, occasionally a few strands playfully brushing across her rosy cheeks.


    Her eyes, deep and bright, were like two shining emeralds, and her cherry lips were tender pink, wearing a sweet smile, her face radiating innocence.


    After his eyes lingered on the girl for a moment, Qiu Tu turned back to Guan Xiao and said with a smile, "Let''s promote Xiaoxiao first, raise her rank to Deputy Staff."


    "As for her position... the Political Department is not suited for changes at the moment. So, place her in the ''Intelligence Work Team,'' under your command."


    "The rest... you can arrange it as you see fit."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao laughed as she stood up with Miao Xiaoxiao, giving Qiu Tu a respectful salute.


    The Investigation Bureau had long circulated that Qiu Tu was generous in his actions, always ready to promote his confidants.


    At that time, Guan Xiao had her doubts, after all, what kind of superior in this world doesn''t promise the moon. She''d rather believe she didn''t want to climb into Qiu Tu''s bed right now...


    And now... after personally experiencing her own and Miao Xiaoxiao''s promotions, she believed it.


    She felt that recently when she realized she had misjudged Qiu Tu and promptly changed course to support him, it had been the right decision.


    If it wasn''t for following Qiu Tu, where would she and Xiaoxiao be today?


    Thinking this way, her alluring eyes couldn''t help but ripple once again...


    Such a quality ''stock'' must be secured...


    With this thought in mind, Guan Xiao looked at the files regarding the Evil God incident in her hands, her eyes flickering subtly.


    The next moment, she pretended to stumble, but her hand with the files deftly blocked her short skirt.


    Immediately after, she stepped forward, placing the files on Qiu Tu''s desk, "Minister~ these are the files I''ve just reported on."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu involuntarily looked down and what first caught his eye was... the straps, lace, hollowed panties that Guan Xiao had ''accidentally'' dropped, still carrying her body warmth, placed on the desk along with the files.


    Qiu Tu was startled and looked up at Guan Xiao.


    Guan Xiao sat on the desk, leaning forward, getting close to Qiu Tu''s ear and whispered seductively, "Sir, the previous two times, you criticized me for not wearing underwear."


    "Today, I made sure to wear it. So I specially let you check~"


    Qiu Tu:... S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Staring at the lace panties beside the files, Qiu Tu was momentarily speechless.


    Indeed, his ''brother'' did want to explore where those panties had just been and learn more about the depths.


    But... Miao Xiaoxiao was still damn in the office! How was he supposed to proceed?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu opened a drawer, picked up the lace panties, tossed them inside, and said indifferently, "Confiscated. When there''s no one around, come get them back."


    Understanding Qiu Tu''s insinuation, Guan Xiao giggled several times, then threw a seductive glance at Qiu Tu, hopped off the desk, waved her hand, and left the office in style with Miao Xiaoxiao~


    Looking at the small wet spot remaining on the desk...


    Qiu Tu: ...


    ''This woman!''


    ''She really is saucy to the core!''


    After seeing off Guan Xiao, who needed "no paddles to row," Qiu Tu took the files and went to the 12th floor, planning to report to Bureau Chief Tang Feifei...


    Although they were now competitors, their relationship was still close. Moreover, the Evil God was also a common enemy of humanity, and such intelligence should still be shared.


    So, up to the 12th floor he went and knocked on the door.


    Shortly after, the office door opened, and Su Xiaowan walked out.


    The girl seemed a bit different today, her eyes lacking their usual naivety, instead carrying a hint of cunning...


    Seeing Qiu Tu, she saluted him sweetly, "Sir~"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then asked, "Is the Bureau Chief inside?"


    Su Xiaowan nodded again, "She is. Shall I report?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in response, then stood waiting at the door.


    Su Xiaowan flashed a charming smile at Qiu Tu before walking back inside.


    In a moment, she came out, bowed slightly toward Qiu Tu, "The Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    Qiu Tu nodded and then stepped into the office.


    But as he brushed past Su Xiaowan, Qiu Tu suddenly paused and said, "Shall we meet at the usual place tonight?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, "Su Xiaowan" was visibly taken aback before she looked up at him, slightly puzzled.


    Qiu Tu winked at her, "Why? Not convenient tonight? Deputy Chief Rain Butterfly..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu reveal her identity, "Su Xiaowan"''s expression slowly changed.


    After a moment, Qin Shuman''s face with its trace of coquetry and imposing presence was revealed.


    She took a step back, hands behind her back, on the tips of her toes, cocked her head to look at Qiu Tu, "Minister Qiu~~ how did you discern my identity?"


    Even though Rain Butterfly was in Su Xiaowan''s body, with those familiar movements, Qiu Tu still seemed to see the figure of the woman most intimate to him.


    He glanced around to see if no one noticed them, then gently scraped her delicate nose and whispered, "You... even if you were to change a hundred bodies, I would still recognize you at a glance."

 Chapter 575 - 343: Am I the Evil God? (10,000 Characters for Monthly Tickets)_3

    "Because... I sensed you with my heart."


    Hearing those words that weren''t sweet nothings yet seemed sweeter than any, Qin Shuman revealed a sweet smile on her face....


    Seeing that he had cheered Qin Shuman up, Qiu Tu also curiously inquired, "By the way, what are you doing possessing Xiaowan? Spying for information or something?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Qin Shuman smiled and shook her head, then teasingly replied, "How could that be."


    "I wouldn''t dare to spy on the Investigation Bureau Chief''s information."


    Qiu Tu: .....


    "Clearly, the demoted Yan Chen would have a different opinion!"


    While complaining in his mind, Qiu Tu seemed to think of something and said, "Right, good thing I ran into you. Take a look at this document first."


    Saying so, Qiu Tu handed the document about the Evil God to Qin Shuman.


    Qin Shuman curiously took the document and opened it. She first speed-read through the document, then immediately started reading it again carefully from the beginning.


    However... to Qiu Tu''s surprise,


    Upon seeing that two Evil Gods had infiltrated Xinjie City, Qin Shuman''s face didn''t show much surprise; even her expression didn''t become the slightest bit grave.


    This made Qiu Tu a bit curious...


    Could it be... Qin Shuman came to see Tang Feifei because the Security Department also noticed traces of Evil Gods and wanted to cooperate with the Investigation Bureau?


    But... that''s not right.


    Even if she wanted to cooperate with the Investigation Bureau, Qin Shuman should have looked for him!


    He and she were the real matching business counterparts, physically compatible too!


    Why look for Tang Feifei?


    When did these two women start colluding together?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "You don''t seem surprised by this news?"


    "Did the Security Department get wind of it too?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Qin Shuman casually handed the document back to Qiu Tu and said with some resignation, "Not really."


    "It''s just... yesterday, I happened to see one of those Evil Gods with my own eyes."


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment, "You saw an Evil God with your own eyes yesterday?"


    Qin Shuman deeply "Mhm"-ed, her eyes intense with gravity¡ªonly... given she was in the body of the young girl Su Xiaowan, her expression seemed out of place no matter how he looked at it.


    "Those few Evil Gods should have already infiltrated the corresponding region of the Boundless Heart Sea in Xinjie City."


    "I went to inspect the Boundless Heart Sea yesterday and just happened to see one of the Evil Gods riding a fourth-order Cataclysmic Creature, the Cuiying Dragon, searching for something in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "My visit to meet with Director Tang was also about this matter."


    "A singular Cuiying Dragon, with the manpower of the Pioneer Base now, should be hopeful to eliminate or drive off."


    "But if you add a peak fourth-order or even a fifth-order Evil God, then the [Pioneer Base] might not be able to hold up."


    "So both of us have been somewhat hesitant."


    Having said that, Qin Shuman pointed at the materials in Qiu Tu''s hands and said with a helpless face, "However... seeing the information that you provided me today, my hanging heart is thoroughly dead."


    "Because your document proves that the Evil God not only has a fourth-order pet but also other accomplices."


    Saying this, she spread her hands,


    "So... we might only be able to report upwards, to see if the state or Sanctuary can send someone to take down that Cuiying Dragon and those two Evil Gods."


    At this moment, listening to Qin Shuman''s analysis, Qiu Tu was full of question marks: ???


    Wait! Hold on!


    The figure riding the Cuiying Dragon yesterday?


    That... wasn''t that himself?


    Great, now he''s become an Evil God, huh?


    And... also an Evil God with pets, with accomplices....


    ------- S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    2 chapters of 10,000 characters ha! Ask for Monthly Tickets!

 Chapter 576 - 344: Her Highness Zhao Ji, Larilo Suspects Us (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)

    And most importantly, his own woman had to apply above, to send a master to kill him...


    The more Qiu Tu thought about it, the more he felt a headache coming on.


    This misunderstanding seemed quite significant.


    He truly hadn''t expected that the minor accident caused by the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi yesterday would lead to so much trouble!


    But after giving it some thought, Qin Shuman''s judgment seemed reasonable to Qiu Tu.


    The standard approach of investigative agencies always followed Occam''s Razor: Entities should not be multiplied unnecessarily.


    Meaning, unless there were new leads or intelligence, everything should be verified against the simplest assumption.


    Try to simplify complex matters as much as possible.


    So, in Qin Shuman''s mind:


    Last night she had witnessed a creature riding a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature, the Cuiying Dragon¡ªlikely an Evil God capable of taming such a creature¡ªQiu Tu discovered today that two Evil Gods had infiltrated Xinjie City¡ªthen... that Evil God riding the Cuiying Dragon was likely one of the two.


    Afterwards, Qin Shuman naturally concluded: Xinjie City was likely invaded by two Evil Gods and a Fourth Rank creature.


    Hmm... the entire deduction was very logical.


    Only a pity that this wasn''t the truth...


    But a mistaken strike against Qiu Tu...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s mind started to churn, considering how to resolve this issue.


    As he thought, an idea gradually formed in his mind.


    After a while, he looked at Qin Shuman seriously and nodded affirmatively, "I think what you said makes sense."


    To deceive a person, the first step was never to deny them, but to affirm them.


    Because affirmation makes it easier to gain their acceptance. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu analyzed seriously, "If things are truly as you have deduced, then the Boundless Sea Heart Exploration Plan, as well as Xinjie City, might face a huge crisis."


    "The destructive power of two Evil Gods and a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature is too great."


    "And more importantly... these are only the Evil Gods we''ve discovered. In the shadows, could there possibly be a third, a fourth Evil God?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman, possessed in Su Xiaowan''s body, stirred slightly.


    She stroked her chin, thought it over seriously, then slightly nodded.


    Seeing he had influenced Qin Shuman, Qiu Tu then shifted his tone, revealing his intent, "So... I think we should prepare for multiple contingencies."


    "Let''s draft a request for support. But let''s hold onto it without sending it just yet."


    "Then... continue to investigate the situation. See if there are any other Evil Gods or Cataclysmic Creatures invading Xinjie City."


    Qiu Tu said with a tone of concern for Qin Shuman, "As department heads, we must be steadfast. We can''t report up immediately upon getting a bit of intelligence."


    "If we report an infiltration of two Evil Gods and a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature, and reinforcements are sent only to discover other hidden Evil Gods."


    "Then who bears the responsibility if the reinforcements run into trouble, you or me?"


    "So, you go back now and investigate as well, see if the Security Department has discovered any other leads or anomalies."


    "I''m going to report to Director Tang now and continue my investigation."


    "Once we both have results, let''s compare notes to make sure there are no issues before we report together to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s sensible suggestion, Qin Shuman nodded slightly and then said, "Makes sense."


    She clearly took it to heart, "I''ll go back now, let Lin Zuo update the intelligence, and see if there are any leads related to Evil Gods."


    After speaking, her attractive eyes playfully regarded Qiu Tu, "Then... thanks, Minister Qiu~"


    Watching Qin Shuman''s cute demeanor, Qiu Tu felt his heart flutter, even feeling an urge to kiss her.


    Having known each other for so long, they understood each other very well. Possibly sensing Qiu Tu''s thoughts, Qin Shuman giggled and stomped on Qiu Tu''s foot, "Hey! What are you thinking! This is Xiaowan''s body!"


    "Don''t mess around~!"


    Qiu Tu winced in pain and inadvertently let out a yelp; but when he thought of retaliating, he found Su Xiaowan staring at him in confusion.


    She seemed to have just woken up and was a bit groggy.


    Seeing Qiu Tu, she blinked her eyes in bewilderment and asked, "Minister Qiu... What are you doing on my bed?"


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu lightly thwacked her on the head and lowered his voice, "What nonsense are you talking? See where you are now?"


    After speaking, Qiu Tu didn''t pay attention to the girl''s even more confused expression as she held her head and stepped into the office.


    If he hadn''t guessed wrong, today Su Xiaowan was still lazy in bed when Qin Shuman possessed her.


    Probably she had awoken briefly, seen Qin Shuman controlling her body, and then continued to sleep.


    This dazed girl was indeed a bit adorably foolish...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but walk into Tang Feifei''s office.


    Just now, the two women must have chatted for a long time, so the coffee table next to the sofa still had tea on it.


    Tang Feifei was sitting on the sofa with a teacup in her hand, not drinking, but rather somewhat lost in thought.


    Her wheat-colored face bore the traces of worry, looking somewhat solemn, her deep brown eyes slightly narrowed, making it difficult to read her...


    Seeing Qiu Tu come in, Tang Feifei looked up.


    Her attractive eyes showed calm, and she asked, "Have you met with Chief Rain Butterfly?"


    Qiu Tu hummed in acknowledgment, not hiding it from Tang Feifei, "I exchanged some information with her."


    Tang Feifei nodded slightly, then coldly gestured towards the sofa with her hand, "From your expression, your intelligence doesn''t seem to be good news."

 Chapter 578 - 344: Her Highness Zhao Ji, Larilo Suspects Us (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Before death, whether god or human, all were equally insignificant.


    After his heart had been gouged out and his body pierced, he had already embarked upon the one-way street to death...


    So in just a moment, his divine body slowly crystallized, transforming into the highest-grade Cataclysmic Material: Boundless Divine Crystal...


    Seeing this, Zhao Ji, unconcerned, tossed the likewise-crystallized heart to the ground, and then closed her eyes, perhaps sensing something...


    One couldn''t tell how much time had passed.


    It could have been only seven or eight seconds, or maybe a minute or two, when Zhao Ji suddenly opened her eyes.


    Her skin, white as snow, seemed to have been bathed in frost, shimmering with a lustrous glow.


    Upon her forehead, nine light spots slowly emerged!


    With the appearance of these nine light spots, the next second, the white mist surrounding the area rushed towards the region where Zhao Ji stood.


    In just a moment, the entire region of broken tiles and ruins was enveloped in white mist.


    Then, as the white mist slowly receded, the original ruins transformed into a desolate desert...


    As if it had been assimilated.


    If someone rose to the sky above the Boundless Heart Sea and looked down, they would see that in the southwest of the Boundless Heart Sea, nine regions had completely merged together, all devoid of life, nothing but barren desert.


    This was the Domain of the Great Evil God Zhao Ji...


    And at that time, within this vast region, Zhao Ji once again raised her head to look eastward, towards the central region of the Boundless Heart Sea...


    Her cold, profound eyes were deep, like an unfathomable clear spring...


    "We will return..."


    Just as she murmured this softly, she suddenly seemed to sense something and furrowed her brows. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In a moment, the scorching sun above her head turned into the moon, and the next second, she was drawn into the moon, returning to her own Divine Domain Space...


    ...


    The second time Qiu Tu arrived in the Divine Domain Space, he was still met with boundless darkness.


    This time, Zhao Ji seemed to be a bit late, and Qiu Tu called out several times, waiting for about fifteen minutes.


    Then he finally heard Zhao Ji''s voice, cool as frost, "You again?"


    Hearing her words, and for some reason, Qiu Tu felt that Zhao Ji was in a much better mood than last time.


    Could it be... she experienced something happy?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu felt slightly relieved, sensing the chances of success for tonight''s plan might be higher.


    With that in mind, he went straight to drop a bombshell as per his plan.


    His face flushed with excitement, he said to Zhao Ji, "Sister Yueyue. I''ve come with great news! I''ve finally found Her Highness Larilo!"


    His bombshell certainly hit hard, so upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zhao Ji was silent for a full three seconds in the darkness before she slowly said, "Indeed... very well."


    Then, she rare took the initiative to ask, "Where is she now?"


    Upon hearing her question, Qiu Tu deliberately put on a difficult expression. He said, "Her Highness forbade me from telling you..."


    Zhao Ji chuckled lightly, "Hehe," without saying a word.


    And Qiu Tu managed to keep his cool, not taking the initiative to speak again.


    So for a time, the entire Divine Domain Space fell silent.


    1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds...


    After such silence for over ten seconds, Zhao Ji slowly spoke out three words, "Why not?"


    Qiu Tu had been waiting for just this question. So he looked up, somewhat hesitantly, and said, "Her Highness Larilo... suspects there''s an issue between us two."


    "She''s very angry, and... keeps calling me ''brother-in-law.''"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a question mark slowly formed above Zhao Ji''s head in the darkness: ?


    ------

 Chapter 579 - 345: Something is Wrong with Zhao Ji (10,000-character plea for Monthly Tickets!)

    As an Evil God, especially a Great Evil God with vast experience,


    the long years had exposed Zhao Ji to too many bizarre occurrences.


    Therefore, she initially believed that her emotions could not possibly be affected by an ordinary human.


    After all, in her eyes, the human before her was not honest, always seeming to have ulterior motives, with hardly any truth in his words.


    She only needed to listen casually.


    However, when she heard the explosive topic that the human before her had brought up, she was still startled.


    She had an affair with¡­ this weak human, as insignificant as an ant?


    How¡­ dare he fabricate such a lie?


    Was he truly not afraid that she would slap him to death?


    Thinking this, Zhao Ji''s already icy gaze grew even colder.


    She took a deep look at Qiu Tu. Just one look made Qiu Tu feel as though his blood had frozen, slowing to an excruciating crawl.


    And his body became incredibly stiff, every joint as if rusted, moving them was extremely difficult...


    Upon seeing Zhao Ji getting angry, Qiu Tu quickly cried out, "Sister Yueyue, calm your anger! It wasn''t me, it was Her Highness Larilo who said it!"


    "Hehe¡­" Zhao Ji responded to Qiu Tu''s defense with a cold laugh.


    Then, at that moment, Qiu Tu strenuously raised his right hand and swore, "If Her Highness Larilo didn''t call me brother-in-law, if she didn''t suspect that I had an affair with Her Highness Zhao Ji, may thunder strike me!"


    It was still the same... In a world where the mind could affect the real world, an oath from the Cataclysmics held power.


    Thus, unless it was the truth, or at least what one believed to be the truth, one would not dare to make such an oath.


    Hence, seeing that Qiu Tu really dared to swear, and his oath was so precise and clear,


    Zhao Ji, hidden in darkness, hesitated for a moment and then stopped freezing Qiu Tu.


    Feeling the chill receding from his body, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief.


    He rubbed his hands and stomped his feet, easing his body that had almost been frozen stiff.


    Just then, Zhao Ji slowly asked, "Why does she suspect?"


    Zhao Ji''s voice was like a clear, resonant spring in the forest, crisp and captivating.


    Qiu Tu, daring to start this topic, surely had a well-thought-out strategy for responding. Thus he explained nonchalantly,


    "Because¡­ it was after seeing you that I found Her Highness Larilo."


    "At that time, my body must have been infused with your aura."


    "But¡­ I didn''t know."


    "Also, I knew there was some conflict and misunderstanding between you and the Princess. So¡­ when the Princess inquired about it, I lied."


    "This made the Princess suspicious of me for the first time."


    "Later¡­ to help the Princess return to the Boundless Heart Sea, I secretly used the Summoning Coin you gave me last time to contact Colonel Wu from the Lianzhen Special Combat Team."


    "Again¡­ the Princess discovered this and became suspicious again."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu''s acting skills exploded, portraying a pitiful, distressed man perfectly.


    He said, "Maybe¡­ the Princess fell and now has a sense of insecurity."


    "Since then, she has always been suspicious."


    "So, when I realized she was already suspicious of us, I took the initiative to tell her the truth about everything."


    "But... by then, she no longer believed me."


    "And because of that, when the situation in Xinjie City drastically changed, and we needed your help, she didn''t want to come to see you and asked me to come alone."


    "And before I left, she repeatedly warned me not to tell you her whereabouts." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Otherwise, she would run away from home, making it impossible for you and me to find her again."


    Zhao Ji in the darkness:...


    Honestly, although Qiu Tu''s story was bizarre, it matcheds well with Larilo''s capricious and willful personality.


    So Zhao Ji did not question him but instead paused for a few seconds and then slowly asked, "What trouble have you encountered?"


    Hearing Zhao Ji''s question, Qiu Tu finally began to discuss the purpose of his visit.


    He said, "Sister Yueyue, it''s the Evil Gods! At least two Evil Gods have invaded Xinjie City!"


    "One of the Evil Gods exhibits the vision of a whale tail, and the other one exhibits twin moons."


    "They lurk in the darkness, and both I and Her Highness Larilo dare not venture towards the Boundless Heart Sea, we even dare not move around much¡­"


    "Whale and twin moons¡­hehe¡­"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Zhao Ji, concealed in the darkness, chuckled lightly and then waved her hand gently.


    In the next second, a piece of green crystal representing half of a body with exposed flesh and a connected right arm appeared at Qiu Tu''s feet¡­


    The half-body was exquisitely detailed, as if it were still alive, exuding whispers of High Order pressure.


    Although the pressure was somewhat weak because the owner of the body had died, Qiu Tu could still easily sense the rank of the former being from the tremors of his own soul...


    Fourth Order, and most likely at the Peak Fourth Rank!


    So... Is this a "Boundless Divine Crystal"?!


    The Boundless Divine Crystal, one of the most precious and highest ranked Cataclysmic Materials, is formed by the pure, high-rank Cataclysmic Power that materializes upon the death of an Evil God.


    It has multiple uses.


    Moreover, this type of "Boundless Divine Crystal" isn''t determined by how big the body is but rather condenses and refines rapidly after the death of the Evil God.

 Chapter 581 - 345: Something is Wrong with Zhao Ji (10,000 Words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu maintained vigilance with his whole being.


    But there was still no response.


    Qiu Tu sighed inwardly, then his tone shifted, "She said that when you named Dai Tou ''Yi Yi'' upon his rebirth, she didn''t like the sound of it, so she renamed herself Dai Tou." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Zhao Ji in the darkness: ...


    Watching the man beneath her feet, who claimed to be her brother-in-law, performing eagerly, Zhao Ji''s eyes resembled the flowing glaciers of the poles, void of joy or sorrow.


    She simply listened to him rambling on and on, then with a wave of her hand, expelled the man from her Divine Domain Space.


    Watching the man''s receding figure, Zhao Ji chuckled softly, "Kind of interesting..."


    "Let''s make things a bit more interesting then..."


    Saying this, she extended her snow-white finger and tapped lightly.


    The next second, a stream of multicolored light entered the Boundless Divine Crystal in Qiu Tu''s hand...


    Having done all this, Zhao Ji stood up, the nine stars on her forehead lit up, and her gaze, sharp as a torch, once again turned towards the east, to the central area of the Boundless Heart Sea...


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    Qiu Tu, once again expelled from the Divine Domain Space by Zhao Ji, did not realize that the Boundless Divine Crystal in his hand had been tampered with.


    Back in reality, lying in bed, his mind went through the conversations he had with Zhao Ji like a movie.


    Among these, he focused on recalling Zhao Ji''s reactions.


    For a moment, Qiu Tu had a somewhat immature guess in his mind.


    Today he dared to drop the bombshell that he had found Larilo;


    He dared to drive a wedge between Zhao Ji and Larilo''s feelings;


    He dared to mention the heart-shaped mole on Larilo''s chest, then recklessly implied with his words that Zhao Ji might have a similar mole on her body...


    It was all because he was verifying a guess in his heart.


    Qiu Tu remembered that in their last meeting, Zhao Ji almost killed him because of his improper language, after being provoked by Zhao Ji''s action.


    At that time, "Crisis Intuition" threw out a bunch of hints.


    And from them, Qiu Tu received several important pieces of information.


    "Larilo and Zhao Ji actually fell out over something years ago."


    "It was already generous of Zhao Ji to help Larilo out of consideration for their shared blood as twins."


    "For Larilo, Zhao Ji only harbors disgust and estrangement."


    After obtaining this information, Qiu Tu tentatively posed a few questions to Zhao Ji.


    These included "How to save Larilo," "What is the regional center," and "What is the function of the regional center"...


    The first question was related to saving Larilo, but the latter questions were all Qiu Tu''s hidden agenda; these pieces of information had nothing to do with rescuing Larilo.


    They might even... end up fueling ambitions in Qiu Tu that should not exist.


    As a result, Zhao Ji... still answered them all. Even afterward, she gave Qiu Tu control over a Special Warfare Squad.


    At that time, Qiu Tu felt something was off.


    So, this time, after layering a few more precautions, he probed again.


    He deliberately exposed some of his intimate relationship with Larilo, but... it was precisely this kind of exposure, without Zhao Ji''s inquiry, that made the suspicions and doubts about him very high.


    After all... knowing so many secrets about Larilo, even the details of private body parts, doesn''t necessarily mean he is her boyfriend.


    It''s also possible... that he is someone who has imprisoned, tortured, or interrogated her....


    But still, Zhao Ji either turns a deaf ear or doesn''t care at all.


    This almost confirmed Qiu Tu''s previous guess: Maybe Zhao Ji really doesn''t care about Larilo''s situation?


    Nor does she care about his real relationship with Larilo?


    She might just have one requirement: as long as Larilo doesn''t die, everything else doesn''t matter!?


    Even... if Larilo suffers a bit, she might actually be happy?


    Following this line of thought, Qiu Tu came up with an even bolder conjecture....


    -------

 Chapter 582 - 346: Scaring Away the Three Great Evil Gods (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Everyone does things for a reason.


    Whether that reason follows biological instinct or the drive of inner desires, there must be a starting point.


    After all, in this world, hatred doesn''t arise without reason, nor does love. Even random killings are motivated by a desire to defy society.


    Following this line of thought, Qiu Tu carefully pondered the reasons behind Zhao Ji''s contradictory actions.


    He guessed that there could only be two reasons for Zhao Ji''s behavior.


    One is that Zhao Ji was "actively" choosing to act this way.


    She might already have a method to save Larilo''s life and have quietly used it.


    Although she didn''t want to see Larilo die, she also didn''t want to see her have it easy,


    So, as long as Larilo didn''t die, no matter what Qiu Tu did, even if he tortured her every day, Zhao Ji would only be happy.


    Two is that Zhao Ji was "forced" to act this way. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That is to say... she actually wanted Larilo to die. But... she couldn''t let Larilo die, or at least had to save her once.


    As twin siblings and Evil Gods, Zhao Ji and Larilo likely shared some kind of mystical connection, a contract, or a promise.


    Zhao Ji probably, had to save Larilo at least once.


    But the second time, she wouldn''t need to care.


    Hence, she watched Qiu Tu''s performance so casually and might even be inwardly hoping that Qiu Tu would finish off her sister.


    In that case... she''d be able to kill Qiu Tu with one slap¡ªbeautifully getting rid of her sister while avenging her, shedding a few crocodile tears.


    And both situations, no matter which, pointed to one outcome:


    That is, Qiu Tu must ensure Larilo''s safety but... he could do anything while ensuring her safety.


    Having reached this conclusion, Qiu Tu felt he had a foundation to build upon.


    The reason he had been testing Zhao Ji was actually to lay the groundwork for his future.


    ¡ªKeep in mind, Qiu Tu''s enemies in controlling the Xinjie District are not only the Evil Gods and his competitors from the Sanctuary, but also Zhao Ji!


    In fact, Zhao Ji could be said to be his greatest enemy!


    Without understanding the thoughts of this Great Evil God who ruled the eight surrounding regions, Qiu Tu truly dared not to take control of the Xinjie District.


    After all, this region was left to Larilo by Zhao Ji. If, after Qiu Tu took control, Zhao Ji felt dissatisfied and attacked him,


    Qiu Tu would almost have no way to resist!


    Now, having roughly figured out the heart of this Great Evil God and having obtained the "Boundless Divine Crystal" to deter other Evil Gods, Qiu Tu was finally free to do as he pleased!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu climbed out of bed and, holding the Boundless Divine Crystal, pushed open the bedroom door.


    Tan Huimin was holding a gun, on guard in the outer hall of the suite.


    Seeing Qiu Tu come out, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    Then, her beautiful eyes quickly swept over the crystal in Qiu Tu''s arms that emanated a terrifying pressure, as she hurriedly stepped forward and passed a black ring to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu slipped the black ring onto his middle finger.


    The next second, the ring turned into a pattern that entered Qiu Tu''s hand.


    With a light swipe of his hand over the "Boundless Divine Crystal," a blackish-grey glow emerged on it, and the next second, it disappeared from Qiu Tu''s hands.


    This was one of the Cataclysmic treasures Qiu Tu had obtained from opening the treasure chest "Commitment to the Evil God (Completed)" in the past few days: the Dimensional Magic Ring.


    The effect was that upon wearing this ring, the user would have access to a Dimensional Space.


    By touching an item with their palm, they could store the item within their own Dimensional Space.


    And by pressing their hands together, they could open the Dimensional Space to retrieve items.


    However, this Dimensional Space wasn''t large, only four cubic meters, preventing the storage of medium to large weapons. But it was entirely sufficient for small weapons and Cataclysmic treasures.


    Now, this "Dimensional Magic Ring" had replaced the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" as Qiu Tu''s primary storage equipment.


    The "Gold-Addicted Wallet" now served more as defensive equipment.


    After storing the "Boundless Divine Crystal" into the "Dimensional Magic Ring," Qiu Tu left Eastern City together with Tan Huimin, heading towards Xinjie City...


    [Threat in the Darkness (Completed)]


    [Revenge of the United Front (Completed)]


    [Victory Fruit - Regional Controller (30 Days)]


    ...


    Two hours later, Qiu Tu had Tan Huimin drop him back at the villa on Longshan Road that he shared with Fang Tangtang.


    At 10 p.m., the regularly-scheduled Fang Tangtang was already asleep.


    Qiu Tu didn''t disturb her, but instead found a guest room for himself, locked the door, lay down on the bed, and once again used the "Substitute Guise Mirror" to change his appearance. He then used the "Skull Talisman" to enter the Boundless Heart Sea...


    At the same time,


    As Qiu Tu entered the Boundless Heart Sea,


    In Xinjie City... inside an official''s home at City Hall; within a villa on Longshan Road; and in a military camp of The Military...


    Three people, who were meditating with their eyes closed¡ªan elder, a young boy, and a robust man¡ªsuddenly opened their eyes.


    ''The target has appeared....''


    Thinking this, their gaze seemed to penetrate layers of time and space, focusing on Qiu Tu as he descended into the Boundless Heart Sea...


    ...


    Once again arriving at the "Boundless Heart Sea," Qiu Tu found himself at the same spot where he had left the night before.


    And the tree that the Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature, the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, had transformed into stood not far from him, blending into the Primitive Forest of the Xinjie Territory.

 Chapter 583 - 346: Scaring Away the Three Great Evil Gods (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    If it hadn''t been for Qiu Tu seeing Yiyi turn into a large tree last night, he might not have seen through the tree''s disguise right before him.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu walked over, gently touched the trunk of the large tree, and softly called out, "Yiyi..."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s call, the trunk of the tree gently trembled, its branches and leaves slowly transforming into two massive wings.


    The wings flapped, the trunk transformed into a dragon''s body, and the roots turned into a dragon''s tail!


    The ancient tree that Qiu Tu had touched thus transformed back into the Jade Dragon Yiyi right in front of him...


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Yiyi bent its dragon body and gently nudged him, as if showing affection.


    Qiu Tu jumped onto her back, opened the "Ghostly Map," and then, just like yesterday, directed the Jade Dragon to take off, continuing to "run the map"!


    He hadn''t been aware last night that the Xinjie Territory had been infiltrated by an Evil God, so Qiu Tu hadn''t detected anyone tracking him.


    But today, because he was mentally prepared and had been paying attention, Qiu Tu also felt the sensation of being shadowed.


    However, perhaps because the follower was too weak, he couldn''t determine exactly which direction the person was in or how many there were.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t in a hurry, his trump card would only work exceptionally well the first time it appeared.


    It was best for him to act only after all his enemies had gathered.


    Therefore, he wasn''t in a rush and instead confirmed an intersection point by comparing the two straight lines he had drawn on the "Ghostly Map," sending the Jade Dragon Yiyi flying toward that spot.


    When surrounded by multiple enemies, Qiu Tu obviously wouldn''t go looking for the Central Hub. But it didn''t stop him from briefly "passing by" to take a look.


    So soon, under Qiu Tu''s directions, the Jade Dragon carried him to that meeting point.


    However, what surprised Qiu Tu was that the meeting point didn''t seem special or show any anomaly.


    That... it was just the most ordinary collection of trees. Like the countless trees that made up the Primitive Forest, there was no noticeable difference.


    If one had to point out an anomaly, it was that it was too ordinary, ordinary as if it were deliberately arranged that way.


    But now, since he was being followed, Qiu Tu couldn''t thoroughly check and instead discreetly directed the Jade Dragon to fly past the area, continuing to map the Primitive Forest.


    While drawing the map, Qiu Tu also pondered the right opportunity to take out the Boundless Divine Crystal soaked with Zhao Ji''s aura...


    Meanwhile, in the Primitive Jungle of the Xinjie Territory...


    Three Black Shadows watched the flying Jade Dragon while rapidly moving through the jungle.


    Their modes of travel were also all different.


    The first Black Shadow seemed to have turned into wind, following the air currents caused by the Jade Dragon''s flapping wings, leisurely keeping up at a drifting pace.


    The second Black Shadow was enveloped in a mist, each movement stirring a fog, filling the forest. Wherever it went, all the trees seemed to be nourished, becoming tender and lush.


    The third Black Shadow was the most peculiar... it traveled among the trees.


    One second, an ancient face emerged on a tree trunk a hundred meters away.


    The next second, that aged face appeared on a nearby ancient tree, giving an incredibly eerie feeling. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As such, following Qiu Tu''s purposeless flight, the three Black Shadows also communicated with each other using their Divine Sense...


    An aged voice said, "The strength of this Mysterious Person doesn''t seem strong; I didn''t even feel any pressure."


    "Third Order at most, possibly only Second-order Peak," a burly man gruffly added.


    A child spoke, "The strength indeed isn''t strong. So, it''s probably not an Evil God from the Sanctuary or other regions coming to steal resources."


    "From his control of the Jade Dragon, he''s most likely a believer of Larilo, collecting Cataclysmic Materials and Central Hubs to restore her power."


    The burly man responded, "Makes sense, quite reasonable."


    "So...after following him for a while longer, we can take advantage of him landing to capture him and interrogate him about Larilo''s whereabouts."


    Saying this, he chuckled lewdly, "I''ve been drooling over her and her sister for a long time."


    "Now, having a chance to taste the younger sister first is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity given by the world."


    "A goddess of ''Reproduction''... just thinking about it is thrilling."


    "In time, I can recreate a body for her to warm my bed every day."


    "If we could get her sister too..."


    Hearing the burly man go too far, the aged voice and the child spoke in unison, rebuking, "Shut up!"


    The aged voice said seriously, "Have you gone mad? Don''t provoke that woman."


    "We won''t help you if you do."


    The aged voice sounded somewhat diplomatic, but the child was more direct.


    He said, "Even helping won''t be of use. The three of us together aren''t a match for Her Highness Zhao Ji. She''s among the top three strongest Great Evil Gods in the Northwestern Region."


    Continuing, he chuckled lightly, "But...it''s no big deal. If you provoke her, we can collect your body."


    "Anyway, it''s simple, I guess not even ash will be left."


    "Tehehe..."


    Hearing the child''s words, the burly man spoke with disdain, "You two are just cowards."


    "What''s there to be afraid of Zhao Ji? Isn''t she also just a woman with a nose, two eyes, two ears, two holes?"


    "You may fear her, but I sure don''t."

 Chapter 584 - 346: Scaring Away the Three Great Evil Gods (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)_3

    An ancient voice: ...


    A child''s voice: ...


    Accompanied by the three discussing Zhao Ji, the Cuiying Dragon in the sky traced a perfect arc, performed a 180-degree turn, then turned back to fly towards them.


    Seeing this scene, three black shadows agilely kept up while decisively changing the topic to continue complaining.


    Child, "What exactly does this mysterious person want to do?"


    "He''s been flying around aimlessly twice now. Is he unable to find the central hub?"


    Hearing the child''s words, the ancient voice said, "If he hasn''t found it tonight... then we won''t follow him together. Instead, we''ll take turns following him."


    "Whoever finds the hub shouldn''t monopolize it but must summon the others."


    "Don''t forget, it''s not difficult to gain control of the hub, the challenge lies in refining and controlling it, and the subsequent impact..."


    "If Her Highness Zhao Ji finds out someone has brazenly seized control of her sister''s region, no single deity will be able to withstand her."


    Hearing the words of the ancient voice, the brawny man interjected, "Do you guys think it''s possible that this mysterious person isn''t one of Larilo''s but belongs to Zhao Ji?"


    "Impossible." "Impossible." The child and the ancient voice declared emphatically.


    The child said, "Her Highness Zhao Ji practices her own unique path and does not need followers or subordinates."


    "Moreover... if she were interested in Larilo''s region, she could completely unleash her divine sense to forcefully search, rather than sending such a weak believer to look for it."


    The ancient voice hummed in agreement, though he didn''t continue to explain, it was clear he agreed with the child.


    Meanwhile, hearing their conversation, the brawny man chuckled and said, "I was just asking casually. Look how scared you two got."


    "Really cowardly. A single woman terrifies you like this."


    Just then, as he teased his two companions,


    the Cuiying Dragon flying in the sky suddenly hovered in place, motionless.


    The three black shadows paused for a moment, their minds slightly stirring.


    ''Could it be... has he found the hub?''


    And just as they were thinking this, the mysterious person riding the Cuiying Dragon brought his hands together and then slowly opened them.


    As his hands opened, a fist-sized black hole appeared between them.


    Next, the mysterious person reached into the black hole and pulled out a chunk of divine spirit corpse remnants with an exposed, flesh-bearing right arm!


    At the sight of the half-remnant, the three evil gods were sharply startled!


    And that wasn''t even the end of it!


    Next, the mysterious person placed his hand on the Boundless Divine Crystal, triggering the Cataclysm!


    The next second, a powerful force of a Fifth Order Evil God, bringing with it the anguish of a Fourth Order Peak Evil God''s death, was unleashed from the Boundless Divine Crystal! It swept across the entire Xinjie Territory!


    Wherever the momentum reached, all beings prostrated!


    Another second passed!


    A sharp buzzing noise suddenly burst from one of the black shadows!


    The brawny man, his head enveloped in a thick mist, without looking back, dashed towards the outskirts of the Xinjie Territory!


    He didn''t hesitate or falter for a second.


    It was as if, if he delayed by even 0.1 seconds, he would fall right there...


    An ancient voice: ...


    A child''s voice: ...


    The two evil gods looked at each other, seeing the gravity on each other''s faces.


    The child''s voice, somewhat stammering, said, "This... this is a warning."


    The ancient voice, comparatively more composed, still slightly tense, hummed in agreement, saying, "Let''s pull out first and observe."


    After speaking, the two black shadows also swiftly headed towards the periphery of the Xinjie Territory.


    Not even a person appeared, just a corpse exuding presence that scared the three evil gods into a frantic escape.


    Such is the might of the Great Evil God Zhaohui....


    The three evil gods'' escape was too disgraceful, barely concealing their forms, so Qiu Tu saw it all clearly....


    --


    -- S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ---


    The Cuiying Dragon flying in the sky suddenly hovered in place, motionless.


    The three black shadows paused for a moment, their minds slightly stirring.


    ''Could it be... has he found the hub?''


    And just as they were thinking this, the mysterious person riding the Cuiying Dragon brought his hands together and then slowly opened them.


    As his hands opened, a fist-sized black hole appeared between them.


    Next, the mysterious person reached into the black hole and pulled out a chunk of divine spirit corpse remnants with an exposed, flesh-bearing right arm!


    At the sight of the half-remnant, the three evil gods were sharply startled!


    And that wasn''t even the end of it!


    Next, the mysterious person placed his hand on the Boundless Divine Crystal, triggering the Cataclysm!


    The next second, a powerful force of a Fifth Order Evil God, bringing with it the anguish of a Fourth Order Peak Evil God''s death, was unleashed from the Boundless Divine Crystal! It swept across the entire Xinjie Territory!


    Wherever the momentum reached, all beings prostrated!


    Another second passed!


    A sharp buzzing noise suddenly burst from one of the black shadows!


    The brawny man, his head enveloped in a thick mist, without looking back, dashed towards the outskirts of the Xinjie Territory!


    He didn''t hesitate or falter for a second.


    It was as if, if he delayed by even 0.1 seconds, he would fall right there...


    An ancient voice: ...


    A child''s voice: ...


    The two evil gods looked at each other, seeing the gravity on each other''s faces.


    The child''s voice, somewhat stammering, said, "This... this is a warning."


    The ancient voice, comparatively more composed, still slightly tense, hummed in agreement, saying, "Let''s pull out first and observe."


    After speaking, the two black shadows also swiftly headed towards the periphery of the Xinjie Territory.


    Not even a person appeared, just a corpse exuding presence that scared the three evil gods into a frantic escape.


    Such is the might of the Great Evil God Zhaohui....


    The three evil gods'' escape was too disgraceful, barely concealing their forms, so Qiu Tu saw it all clearly....


    The escape was so disgraceful, barely concealing their forms, so Qiu Tu saw it all clearly...

 Chapter 585 - 347: The Regional Center Turns Out to Be.... (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    He watched the rolling mist, like a river at ebb tide, swarm towards the outer perimeter of the Xinjie Territory, where the figure of a giant whale flickered into and out of view...


    He watched a breeze shimmering with silver brilliance, sweeping up the branches and leaves of the forest trees as it whooshed past...


    He watched as every few hundred meters, a tree seemed to come to life, sprouting from the ground, and sit shaking its head...


    He had a rough guess in his mind...


    "It''s not two, it''s three Evil Gods!"


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu held the "Boundless Divine Crystal" in his hand, silently recording all the strange phenomena.


    While Qiu Tu was committing everything to memory, just as he had frightened off the Evil God, Zhao Ji''s aura was also spreading rapidly.


    Soon... it reached the Sanctuary called "Pioneer Base" at the edge of the Xinjie Territory!


    Feeling the aura unique to a Fifth-Order Great Evil God, hearing the wails of a Peak Fourth Rank Evil God ringing in their ears, the complexions of all the base staff became extremely solemn.


    Several among them, who were Peak Third Rank Cataclysmic Beings, exchanged glances before directly ordering all staff to retreat from the Boundless Heart Sea!


    No matter why Zhao Ji, the Fifth-Order Great Evil God, had suddenly erupted with such an aura, and one so saturated with the scent of blood, symbolizing an aura of Slaughter, but... in the face of a Fifth-Order Great Evil God, even Sanctuaries must show enough "respect."


    Even if they were on opposing sides, when such a top-tier expert of the whole world displayed this manner,


    Without the intention to make an enemy of her, everyone was to step back three feet!


    The Pioneer Base had already prepared for such eventualities, so in less than a minute, all the staff had dropped their tools, leaving the Pioneer Base and the Boundless Heart Sea behind.


    In no time... the originally bustling Xinjie Territory had not a single higher being left...


    To be honest, Qiu Tu had not anticipated that Zhao Ji''s aura would have such a terrifying effect.


    He rode the Cuiying Dragon around for a few circles, and after realizing that both the Evil Gods and all factions and families had disappeared without a trace, he belatedly understood what a Fifth-Order Evil God truly meant...


    Clicking his tongue, Qiu Tu was somewhat amazed by the effect of Zhao Ji''s aura.


    However, he wasn''t like that burly Evil God who talked tough but ran faster than anyone. Perhaps because he was a transmigrator, he still did not revere Zhao Ji.


    What he had was only longing...


    "I also want to advance to the Fifth Order! I want to see all creatures kneel and flee beneath a single aura..."


    After silently setting this small goal in his heart, Qiu Tu wasted no time.


    He didn''t know how long Zhao Ji''s aura could deter those enemies.


    Maybe three days? Possibly two days? Or maybe just one.


    Therefore, he had to find the regional center against the clock!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu directly commanded the Cuiying Dragon to the intersection of the two lines he had previously marked on the map!


    He commanded the Cuiying Dragon to descend, jumped off its back, and then began patiently searching the area!


    While searching, Qiu Tu also communicated clues and intelligence with Yiyi through the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm."


    "Yiyi... do you remember this area? Has Lariluo ever been here?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s query, the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi peered around and let out a few "yiyi'''' cries.


    With the "translation" of the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm," Qiu Tu easily understood Yiyi''s meaning: completely unfamiliar with this place...


    ''Completely unfamiliar? Could it be... I''ve marked the region wrong?''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu continued to search for the Central Hub, patiently.


    According to the information given by Qin Shuman and Tang Feifei,


    The regional center was a very mysterious thing.


    Once owned, it could be carried by the owner, or it could be left somewhere.


    Whether carried or placed, it was indistinguishable from ordinary objects.


    Only its owner could sense its presence and activate it...


    But if it had no owner, then it was different.


    Although it could still be an object, a blade of grass, a tree, or even a living creature,


    No matter who it was, as long as they approached and unleashed the Power of Change towards it, it would reveal its marvels...


    Thus, Qiu Tu began a thorough search of the area and its surroundings, carpet-style.


    From the ancient trees to the rocks, he stimulated them with the Power of Change to try.


    But unfortunately... none was the regional center... S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Stubbornly disbelieving, Qiu Tu took out the "Ghostly Map," meticulously marking out the bathing area by the creek and the Lariluo Temple area.


    Then he had the Cuiying Dragon carry him to these two areas, closed his eyes, recalled the "memory" of the scenes, slightly adjusted the potential location of the Central Hub based on the impressions in his memory,


    And drew two lines again to find their intersection.


    The spot was over ten meters away from where Qiu Tu had initially searched.


    Although something in his heart felt off, Qiu Tu still forcefully suppressed it, following the map''s guidance, he swept over the area again!


    This time too, he came up empty-handed...


    Sitting down somewhat dejected, leaning against the broad wings of the Cuiying Dragon, Qiu Tu frowned deeply.


    He carefully combed through all his thoughts...

 Chapter 586 - 347 The Regional Center is Actually.... (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)_2

    He was sure his approach was not wrong. The regional center should theoretically be in this area.


    But now, he couldn''t find the regional center.


    There were only two possibilities.


    One was that the regional center had already been taken away by someone else or had been moved by Larilo.


    The other possibility was... the regional center was mobile...


    It could be an insect, a small bird, or a small fish.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu''s sense from the two memory fragments was correct, as was the straight line he had drawn.


    It just meant... that it did not represent the current location of the regional center, but rather a place it had once moved through...


    "Looks like... I still need to search for clues as much as possible, or possibly pry open Larilo''s mouth to find out the location of the regional center."


    "I just... don''t know if those evil gods, the Sanctuary''s factions, and families will give me that opportunity when the time comes..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu had Yiyi revert to the form of an ancient tree, while he himself canceled the effect of the "Skull Talisman" and returned to the real world...


    In the Boundless Heart Sea, the sun was blazing.


    Moreover, the area was filled with dense trees and the calls of insects and birds.


    But... the real world was not like this.


    The early winter night was so cold that not even ghosts would appear.


    The trees were bare, and the insects and birds had already entered hibernation.


    All was quiet, and Qiu Tu lay in his bedroom, his expression a bit grim, but he methodically opened the "Loyalty Game" and chose the "Fighting Game," selecting Shen Lingshuang to challenge Larilo.


    After doing all this, he then chose the Eagle, whose cooldown had completed, and started the "Fishing Game."


    In the earlier period, he didn''t know if Xinjie City had run out of Cataclysmic treasures or Cataclysmic Material, or if it was just bad luck.


    Qiu Tu had sent out several subordinates whose loyalty was over 90.


    But aside from fishing up two bottles of "Tears of Moonlight," there was no other catch.


    Afterward, because there was a week of cooldown time, Qiu Tu hadn''t arranged the "Fishing Game" these last few days.


    Today, having personally seen three evil gods flee in a panic, Qiu Tu felt that there might be a chance of a catch...


    Thinking this, after arranging everything, Qiu Tu deeply entered his dream.


    A night without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu woke up early.


    Both Loyalty Games had already ended.


    The "Fishing Game" still had no catch, but the "Fighting Game" yielded quite a bit.


    "Loyalty Game victory. Larilo''s loyalty +3, now loyalty 27. Acquired ''Memory Fragment (small).''"


    The loyalty part, Qiu Tu didn''t care about.


    What he cared about was the newly obtained memory fragment!


    This might help him gain further clues about the regional center!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu didn''t hesitate and directly used the small memory fragment.


    The next second, the surrounding environment distorted, and Qiu Tu entered into Larilo''s memory.


    When Qiu Tu regained his senses, he found himself back in the vast Primitive Forest of the Xinjie Region.


    However... compared to the contiguous forest in reality, this forest in the memory seemed much shorter; all the trees were still saplings...


    "What era is this?"


    As Qiu Tu thought this, a somewhat familiar, icy voice sounded around "him."


    "From now on, this area completely belongs to you."


    "With this area, you also have the possibility to reach Fifth Order."


    "The biggest difference between Fifth Order and Fourth Order is whether you have your own Divine Domain."


    "Having your own Divine Domain, refining it, transforming it to perfectly match your path, you then have the foundation of Fifth Order." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "When you can change your Divine Domain environment at will, create mountains and seas, sun and moon with a single thought, you can achieve Fifth Order."


    Hearing that chilly voice, "Qiu Tu" couldn''t help but turn his head to look.


    Then "he" saw a face that somewhat resembled Larilo''s, but was even more cold and noble¡ªit was Zhao Ji...


    "It seems... this memory timeline should be when Zhao Ji just obtained the Xinjie Region?"


    Thinking this, "Qiu Tu" also spoke up.


    The Larilo of that time had a similar personality to now, somewhat lively, and her voice was crisp.


    She said with a smile, "Thanks, Sister~ I will cultivate diligently. And, I especially like this region."


    "It''s originally from the Path of Life, in tune with me, which will make refining it simpler."


    "Moreover... its regional center is also so well matched and hidden within the entire region."


    Hearing her words, Zhao Ji commented expressionlessly,


    "The best way to hide a grain of sand is not to place it in a safe, but to return it to the desert..."


    Hearing that philosophical remark, a thought suddenly struck Qiu Tu.


    Then, at that moment.


    His surroundings shifted.


    The next second, he broke free from this small memory fragment and returned to reality!


    Lying in bed, Qiu Tu opened his eyes and muttered softly, "The best way to hide a grain of sand is not to place it in a safe, but to return it to the desert..."


    This sentence actually revealed very direct information: the regional center was an extremely common thing.


    And in the vast Primitive Forest of the Xinjie Region, there were many things identical to the "regional center"!


    So, Zhao Ji simply put the regional center back in the Xinjie Region, letting sand return to the desert, water to the sea.


    But... the "ordinary" and "numerous" things were too many.

 Chapter 587 - 347: The Regional Center is Actually.... (10,000 Words for a Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Sand, leaves, flying insects, beasts... all ordinary yet plentiful.


    So, what exactly is the regional center?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment before using the "Skull Talisman" to enter the Boundless Heart Sea again.


    He planned to observe the vast Primitive Forest while contemplating.


    After all... perhaps being within it, might spark some insight...


    Arriving at the Boundless Heart Sea, he woke Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, mounted her, and began patrolling the Boundless Heart Sea once more.


    Zhao Ji''s deterrent power was still strong. Although six or seven hours had passed, those three Evil Gods and the staff from the Sanctuary had not returned.


    Qiu Tu guessed that they would only send someone or dispatch Cataclysmic Creatures to probe and inspect after at least 24 hours...


    If they confirmed there was no danger, they would only personally come to probe after at least two days...


    ''Only two days'' time...''


    Muttering softly to himself, Qiu Tu sat on Cuiying Dragon, slowly flying over the Primitive Forest...


    Before his eyes stretched a continuous, boundless forest, occasionally visible streams within the jungle, the sounds of insects, bird calls, clouds, and the setting sun...


    Watching the beautiful scene, Qiu Tu took out the "Ghostly Map" and marked the position of his ancient tree.


    Then, following the direction sensed in his memory, he drew a straight line along the ancient tree.


    If two straight lines formed a point, then three lines were a complete mess.


    Especially since the line from the ancient tree was even in the opposite direction to the one by the stream.


    ''The regional center really is a moving entity...''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly gasped in astonishment!


    Moving?!


    Right!


    If the regional center is moving, then it couldn''t possibly be inanimate objects like sand, stones, dirt, leaves!


    At least, it must be a moving entity or item!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu, sitting on the back of the flying Cuiying Dragon, looked down at the "Ghostly Map."


    The next second, his eyes brightened, and he had a guess in his mind.


    He spoke to Cuiying Dragon Yiyi using the "Heart-Connecting Silkworm."


    "Yiyi, does Her Highness Larilo regularly wander around or catch some small insects, small birds?"


    Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, "Ying ying ying~"


    After receiving Yiyi''s negative response, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh out loud!


    He guessed it! He finally figured out what the regional center was!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu suddenly slapped Yiyi''s head and commanded in his mind, "To the stream where Her Highness Larilo bathes!"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Cuiying Dragon Yiyi spread her massive wings and with an unmatched momentum, glided sharply, turning toward the stream where Larilo often bathed!


    Since the stream wasn''t far, it took less than two minutes for Qiu Tu to reach the streamside.


    The stream water was still crystal clear, under the red glow of the sunset, as red as fire, like blood! S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu dipped his hand into the water, activating Cataclysmic Power!


    Hmm... no reaction.


    But Qiu Tu wasn''t in a rush.


    The stream water flowed, and the regional center formed by a drop or a handful of water also circulated through the forest with the stream.


    His Cataclysmic Power could only be activated within a distance of four or five meters in the water. It was normal not to detect anything now.


    All he had to do next was to quickly search along the stream, and he would definitely find the regional center!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu began to search upstream along the stream, continuously activating his Cataclysmic Power!


    Time ticked by.


    Just as Qiu Tu had circled most of the Primitive Forest along the stream!


    When his Cataclysmic Power was nearly exhausted!


    Suddenly, his Cataclysmic Power fiercely activated a handful of stream water not far away!


    The next second, the stream water burst out like fish, turning into a glass ball-sized water orb, flying towards Qiu Tu!


    Extending his hand, he squeezed the ball of stream water.


    The stream water in Qiu Tu''s hand subtly changed shape, feeling very excellent.


    Holding the water, inexplicably, Qiu Tu felt like he had formed a thin, thread-like connection with the entire Xinjie Region!


    ''Water, the source of life! It indeed fits the path of "Life" for the region.''


    Thinking this, a smile spread across Qiu Tu''s face....


    -------

 Chapter 588 - 348: First Experience as a Domain Master (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)

    After a grueling few days, using various methods, Qiu Tu''s heart was filled with excitement after finally obtaining control over the central hub.


    He felt that his guess today indeed wasn''t wrong.


    The regional center is not an ordinary item, for it represents the ultimate authority of the Boundless Heart Sea Region!


    However, because it doesn''t belong exclusively to anyone, whoever obtains it can refine it and control the entire region.


    This also leads to the consequence... even if someone has refined it and obtained area control rights, if someone else gets ahold of it, they would be stripped of those rights.


    Such a downside encouraged many regional controllers to carry the central hub with them.


    But... carrying the central hub comes with many problems.


    After all, carrying it means it may be easily stolen, lost, or snatched away in an attack.


    Consequently, some weaker domain masters would often hide the central hub within their own regions.


    This way, even if they encounter danger and are captured, they might still have a chance to survive or start over.


    But... as said before: the central hub is essentially ownerless, available for any being to refine.


    So, those domain masters who return the central hub to their respective regions surely worry it might fall into the hands of other beings.


    Therefore, they must intermittently check on the central hub.


    This is why Qiu Tu had been inquiring about the locations Cuiying Dragon Yiyi and Larilo often visited.


    If the regional center were fixed, then Larilo would have surely frequented the spot concealing the hub over the years.


    And later, when Qiu Tu discovered that the regional center was mobile, his first thought was actually of small creatures, like insects and birds.


    But the Cuiying Dragon had said that Larilo never flew about chasing insects and birds.


    Then... things became interesting.


    The regional center is "mobile", yet... there was no need to search everywhere.


    There was only one possibility: the regional center''s "mobility" was cyclical.


    Larilo just needed to stay in one place and wait for the center to "move" to her.


    And there were very few things with such a characteristic.


    Thus, Qiu Tu guessed that the regional center was likely the stream!


    He then analyzed the direction of the streams on the "Ghostly Map".


    Because the map had not been completely drawn out, but from the few "lit" sections, it was vaguely discernible that the streams were circling the Primitive Forest!


    More importantly... the lines Qiu Tu had drawn connecting three central hubs passed right through the river channels!


    This reinforced Qiu Tu''s hypothesis. That''s why he dared to waste so much time searching for the regional center within the stream at such a crucial moment!


    And now, it was proven that his guess was right!


    The Xinjie Territory''s regional center was indeed the stream!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu opened the "Dimensional Magic Ring" and casually took out a small pouch, placing the regional center inside.


    After tying the pouch, Qiu Tu threw it into the "Dimensional Magic Ring". Then he called over Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, mounted it, and flew away from the creek area!


    They flew randomly to an area of the Primitive Forest.


    Qiu Tu asked Cuiying Dragon Yiyi to revert to the form of a tree.


    Then he himself started sprinting toward the deep forest!


    He dashed past towering trees, wove through clumps of bushes, and leaped over hills.


    Qiu Tu arrived at a place he himself didn''t recognize.


    He found a tree hollow and crawled inside.


    The walls of the tree hollow were dark and damp, covered with sticky moss, feeling real and delicate to the touch, just like in reality.


    Qiu Tu stealthily peered outside. By then, the sky of the Boundless Heart Sea had darkened.


    Moonlight and starlight fell, filtering through the gaps in the leaves, landing on the moist leaves and soil.


    The sounds of insects and birds filled the world, everything in perfect harmony, with no abnormalities.


    After confirming no enemy was tracking him, Qiu Tu took out the creek-wrapped pouch from "Dimensional Magic Ring".


    Opening the pouch, he poured the sparkling stream into his palm and closed his eyes, slowly integrating his Cataclysmic Power into it.


    Perhaps because the former master had perished, Qiu Tu''s infiltration wasn''t very difficult.


    One minute, two minutes, three minutes...


    Time passed unknowingly.


    When Qiu Tu gradually came to his senses, the moon had already risen to the center of the sky.


    At that moment, Qiu Tu realized that his Cataclysmic Power had been completely depleted, leaving him virtually defenseless.


    But... because of this, he had established a slight connection with the regional center in his hand.


    He had a thought, and the next second, he felt as if he towered above the entire vast Primitive Forest of Xinjie Territory!


    His consciousness seemed to have soared above the entire region, his vision encompassing every feature of the Primitive Forest ¨C the trees, insects, birds, and streams ¨C all vividly visible.


    He could even see the ripples and rhythms of each stream, the veins of each leaf on the towering trees, the flap of wings of the insects and birds!


    However, the next second, he felt a sharp pain in his head and was pulled out of that state!


    "Spiritual power exhausted!" With that thought, Qiu Tu quickly opened the "Dimensional Magic Ring" and took out the "Nightmare Crystal Vial"!


    S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 589 - 348: First Experience as a Domain Master (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    "The Nightmare Crystal Vial," was the first Cataclysmic Item Qiu Tu had acquired.


    Its function was simple; as long as it was placed under the moonlight at night and left undisturbed, by the next day one could harvest a full vial of water that replenished spiritual power.


    Spiritual power, in turn, was the most common and ordinary "price" for using Cataclysmic abilities. Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic ability, "Order Space," required varying "prices" based on the effect of the ability used.


    Thus, the "Nightmare Crystal Vial" became one of Qiu Tu''s most frequently used treasures, always kept filled.


    It was exactly what was needed at the moment.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu consumed all the liquid in the vial in one gulp.


    The next second, the cool liquid traveled down his esophagus and into his stomach.


    Immediately after being absorbed by his stomach, it moisturized his parched brain.


    In a moment, Qiu Tu felt much more comfortable in his head.


    Then, he sensed the regional center in his hand again.


    In a mysterious way, he seemed to have formed a slight connection with the regional center. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Had he essentially become the Domain Master?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu once again closed his eyes to feel the thin connection.


    Then, he discovered... the connection was extremely weak, as if it could break at any moment.


    Moreover, even though he had essentially become the Domain Master, besides being able to momentarily inspect every corner of the Xinjie District like just before, he possessed no other mighty powers.


    "It should be... not completely refined yet."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brow slightly furrowed.


    Because he realized that with his current strength, the speed of refining the regional center seemed a bit too slow.


    He felt that even if he went without eating or drinking and refined for a week, he might just manage to finish...


    This was mainly because his strength was only at the Second-order Peak with too little Cataclysmic Power inside him and it was difficult to output the Cataclysmic Power quickly.


    Moreover... as one must know, the regional center could only be effective within the region, and refining could also only be done within the region.


    Right now, whether it was the various factions within Sanctuary, families, or the three Evil Gods, they were all eyeing the regional center covetously and searching in various ways!


    It was simply not possible for him to stay in the Xinjie District and refine 24 hours a day.


    He stealthily came to the Boundless Heart Sea each day to refine for a few hours, which was quite good already. Thus, the time would drag on even longer...


    "Isn''t there another way to speed up the refining process?"


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brain rapidly spun...


    However, after quite some time, he still had no solution.


    Qiu Tu no longer had any Cataclysmic Power in his body, so he simply decided not to stay in this dangerous place any longer.


    He opened his mouth and ferociously swallowed the regional center!


    The next second, the regional center followed his esophagus and balled up in his stomach.


    As he had a connection with the regional center, Qiu Tu wasn''t worried about it being expelled along with food.


    Qiu Tu was not like Larilo. He did not believe in the deductive abilities or luck of others.


    Nor was he willing to entrust everything to the unknown.


    Compared to others, he preferred to trust himself!


    Therefore, he chose to keep the regional center with him at all times.


    But... this plunged him into great danger.


    Because, if anyone found out he was the Domain Master of the Xinjie District and had the regional center with him... then whether it was the Evil Gods or the various factions and families of Sanctuary, they might all come to snatch it.


    And he essentially had no way out. Because whether it was to maintain secrecy or to obtain the regional center,


    The opponent would definitely kill him ruthlessly!


    Qiu Tu had almost no way out!


    This required... that he let no one know before he completely refined it!


    Even after refining it, unless he was completely safe and had the protection of a faction, he could not expose his identity...


    After all, a Domain Master at Second-order Peak, even if his strength was somewhat boosted by the title, it unquestionably still couldn''t compare to those Fourth Order, Fifth Order Evil Gods.


    Beyond that... having a "guide" on how to become a Domain Master would definitely attract the coveting and scrutiny of many factions and high-ranking individuals from Sanctuary...


    "Why do I feel like I''ve become Tang Monk?"


    "Clearly, it''s an opportunity that could propel me to the skies, but it... seems like it''s only making me more endangered?"


    While Qiu Tu was thinking this,


    A few lines of notifications flashed before him with a burst of light.


    "Triggered Crisis Intuition! Generating crisis report!"


    "Congratulations on having your first regional center and becoming tentatively the Domain Master."


    "But... since you have not completely refined the regional center yet, you almost have no ability to protect yourself."


    "Before you completely refine the regional center, you absolutely must not expose your identity. Because... anyone might crucify you due to this enormous benefit!"


    Looking at the notifications that popped up in front of him,


    Qiu Tu''s gaze darkened.


    "Can''t trust anyone, huh...?"


    "It seems... being a Domain Master really is a path to the heavens. The benefits are too immense..."


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu did not delay any further; he shifted to another region, carefully erased any traces afterward, and unraveled the "Skull Talisman."


    As the effects of the "Skull Talisman" dissolved, the next second, Qiu Tu returned to the real world, to the bed in the secondary bedroom.


    He sensed the regional center in his stomach.


    The regional center was still lying there quietly.


    However... perhaps due to leaving the Boundless Heart Sea, Qiu Tu felt disconnected from the region there.


    Possibly because the sensation of controlling everything was too enchanting, for a moment, Qiu Tu felt a sense of longing and loss.

 Chapter 590 - 348: First Experience as a Domain Master (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    He sat quietly on the bed for a while, then jumped off the bed!


    The next few days were crucial.


    He had to hide his werewolf... ah, no. He had to hide his identity as the Domain Master.


    He must avoid being discovered by the Evil Gods and the various factions and families of the Sanctuary.


    As long as he could endure this period and become the Domain Master, his strength should at least soar to the Third Order, or even the Third-Order Peak.


    By then, he would have some ability to protect himself.


    Moreover, with Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, as long as he wasn''t facing a Fifth Order Evil God, he should be able to handle, or escape from, the situation.


    This way, he would be qualified to negotiate terms and collaborate with the various factions.


    And then, get a promotion and a raise!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu felt the future was bright.


    He patted his face to suppress his smile, then he left the room.


    Once outside the room, Qiu Tu realized that it was already late morning.


    He took out his communicator, which had over a dozen missed calls, all from Guan Xiao and Tan Huimin.


    They were probably worried because they couldn''t find him since he hadn''t shown up for work today.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu headed to the study, took out Larilo from the safe where he had locked her in since the day before, prepared to chat with her; meanwhile, he made a call to Tan Huimin. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Beep... Beep..."


    The phone rang twice and was then picked up.


    As the call connected, a soft yet anxious voice of Tan Huimin came from the handset, "Minister~ are you still... at home?"


    "There''s an emergency high-level meeting at the department, and it''s said to be about a very important matter. We tried to reach you but couldn''t get through."


    "I went to Miss Fang''s place; she also said she didn''t see you come home last night."


    "The meeting is about to start... I''m a bit unsure what to do."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu''s expression turned serious, then he said, "Don''t worry for now."


    "Where are you now?"


    Tan Huimin replied, "I''m outside Miss Fang''s villa. I didn''t dare to leave."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief, "I''m in the villa. Wait for me, I''m coming out now."


    After speaking, Qiu Tu put Larilo into the ''Gold-Addicted Wallet'' and then stood up to leave.


    But... what he didn''t realize was.


    Since he took Larilo out of the safe, her expression had become a little strange. It looked like... she had discovered something...


    ...


    Passing through the living room, dining room, Qiu Tu, under Fang Tangtang''s bewildered look, left the villa.


    Arrived outside the villa.


    Sure enough, Tan Huimin was already waiting there.


    Because time was tight, Qiu Tu didn''t ask for details and directly got into the car, instructing Tan Huimin to set off.


    This meeting was indeed urgent, so Tan Huimin floored the gas pedal, driving swiftly.


    On the way, Qiu Tu finally had a moment to ask, "Hui Min, what happened? Why the sudden rush for a high-level meeting?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tan Huimin, while driving, said, "Minister, I''m not sure either."


    "Secretary Su was a bit... bewildered. It didn''t feel very clear."


    "I just heard her mentioning something about a ''Pioneering Plan'' major failure, a Fifth Order Evil God appeared, and experts from the Three Giants and the Sanctuary had been meeting all night and morning etc...."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned.


    Then he belatedly remembered... that last night he brought out a ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' tainted with Zhao Ji''s essence, which seemed to have scared away all the workers of the Sanctuary Pioneer Base.


    These workers were all experts and researchers of Second Order, Third Order, up to Third Order Peak.


    He guessed that the news probably blew up, leading the Three Giants of Xinjie City to discuss how to handle this situation!


    Now it seemed, they must have reached a conclusion?


    -------

 Chapter 591 - 349: Credit Delivered to the Door! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu felt even more that he needed to attend this meeting. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all... whether it was the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, Zhao Ji''s aura, or the Domain Master, they were all... his own doing.


    Unable to reveal his identity at this time, he needed to confirm how the three major agencies in Xinjie City planned to act.


    And... based on these actions, to formulate corresponding plans!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu also had a clear understanding of the role he would play in the upcoming meeting.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu looked out the window at the scenery and quietly pondered for a moment.


    Then, as if suddenly remembering something, he asked, "By the way, did Section Chief Guan call me about something?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Tan Huimin was stunned.


    She must have been completely focused on the senior meeting.


    Now hearing Qiu Tu''s question, she thought carefully and then said, "Section Chief Guan... it seems she wanted to report intelligence to you?"


    "She tried calling you several times. But she couldn''t get through."


    "Later, she called me, but when I asked her about the specifics, she said there was a confidentiality clause and couldn''t tell me."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then took out his communicator.


    Although the senior meeting was urgent, Qiu Tu couldn''t just fly to the Investigation Bureau Office Building immediately.


    So, it was perfect to find out about Guan Xiao''s intelligence on the way.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu dialed Guan Xiao''s number.


    "Dial... Dial... Dial..."


    Guan Xiao was clearly busier than Tan Huimin, so the phone rang five or six times before it was picked up.


    After picking up the call, Qiu Tu heard Guan Xiao''s somewhat flirtatious voice, "Chief~~~ Have you finally woken up? Which place did you go to watch scallops spit water last night?"


    Perhaps because she was a spy by training, Guan Xiao''s sense of proportion was not very strong. She drove faster than Qiu Tu.


    Sometimes Qiu Tu could hardly keep up with her pace, and worried he would be thrown off.


    So he said, "You''ve got it wrong. I didn''t go to watch scallops spit water, I went to feed her a fish roe lucky pouch."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu remembered that he had called to discuss business. So he coughed and reminded her, "Section Chief Guan, let''s not talk about these things during working hours."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s reminder, Guan Xiao giggled, then said, "Minister, you''re right~~ Next time... I''ll personally taste your fish roe lucky pouch~"


    "Now, let''s talk business~~"


    What Qiu Tu liked most about Guan Xiao was that she could seamlessly switch states.


    Thus, after they started talking business, her mood immediately became serious. She said, "Minister. I came to see you this morning because I have three important pieces of intelligence to report to you."


    Seeing Guan Xiao switch to a serious state, Qiu Tu also turned serious and asked, "What intelligence?"


    Guan Xiao said, "The first piece of intelligence is, last night, a Mysterious person was riding a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature, the Cuiying Dragon, which then triggered the aura of the Fifth-Order Great Evil God Zhao Ji!"


    "Feeling that threat, all experts and guards involved in the ''Pioneering Plan'' in the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region immediately evacuated."


    "Then both the city and state were shaken."


    "The top officials of the three major agencies spent almost all of last night calming those experts and guards and discussing the next steps."


    Qiu Tu had just heard this news from Tan Huimin. Only, Guan Xiao''s was more complete and clear.


    So he nodded slightly and hummed in acknowledgment, indicating he had heard it before.


    Guan Xiao probably guessed that Qiu Tu already knew this news. So she continued,


    "The second piece of news also relates to the Great Evil God Zhao Ji."


    "This morning, while the Intelligence Section was synchronizing intelligence from the state, we just learned: during this period, Zhao Ji seemed to be forcefully penetrating another Evil God, Chris''s controlled region."


    "And just last night, she successfully obtained control of that Evil God''s region and then invaded it!"


    "Peak Fourth Rank Evil God Chris fought with her and was defeated and perished."


    "His controlled region was taken over by Zhao Ji and turned into the ''Chaotic Desert''!"


    "The Fifth-Order Great Evil God Zhao Ji now officially controls nine pieces of the Boundless Heart Sea, and of the 16 cities in Dongye State, nine are under her control!"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s intelligence, Qiu Tu felt a slight jolt in his heart.


    Controlled nine areas, nine cities?


    Such an exaggerated scope of influence, if not for being extremely powerful, was fundamentally impossible to hold.


    After all... many evil gods didn''t even have their own region...


    Also... forcefully penetrating a region?


    Why did that term sound so unfamiliar?


    Couldn''t regions only be penetrated by obtaining the central hub and then refining it bit by bit?


    Because the intelligence was too sparse, Qiu Tu couldn''t make a judgment. He could only suppress this question at the bottom of his heart for now.


    Planning to probe Zhao Ji the next time he saw her.


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu hummed again, signaling that he had heard it.


    Then he asked, "The third piece of intelligence?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao said, "The third piece of intelligence is... related to you?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu was startled.


    Related to him?


    It couldn''t be that he had just become the Domain Master and his cover was already blown.


    Fortunately, Qiu Tu''s guess was wrong.


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s inquiry, Guan Xiao hummed, then said a bit solemnly, "Director Yan... I don''t know what method he used. He seems to have regained Chairman Huang''s trust."

 Chapter 592 - 349: The Credit Delivered to the Door! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "Chairman Huang has already appointed him as the Court President of the Judiciary Court in the Dongye State Council,"


    "And... it is said that Chairman Huang is letting it be known that this position is of utmost importance. Hence, he plans to allow the Court President to enter the Council, become a Member of Parliament, and even serve as a deputy to State Speaker Liu, overseeing the Investigation Bureaus of sixteen cities."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze became dark...


    The position as Court President had indeed been predesignated.


    However, becoming a Member of Parliament, let alone becoming the deputy to Liu Xiongyuan, had not been previously determined.


    If this were true... then clearly things were just as Guan Xiao had said: Yan Chen had regained the trust of Huang Shangzong.


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu chuckled softly.


    Yan Chen''s quick return to power was not unexpected to him.


    After all... that was the man with whom he had dueled for several months, often gaining the upper hand.


    Had it not been for Qiu Tu''s remarkable ability to deceive and leverage his power for growth...


    Coupled with a bit of good luck in a few bets, it''s likely that Yan Chen would have already seized control of all of Xinjie City, reigning indisputably as the Local Tyrant!


    Qiu Tu had always felt that if it weren''t for him, given Yan Chen''s means, reaching the very top of the Sanctuary might be uncertain, but becoming a State Speaker and entering the upper echelons was a sure thing.


    But... the cruelest part of history lies in the fact that no matter how numerous the heroes and formidable figures, once they lose the moment, they fall a step behind and keep falling behind...


    Now, did Yan Chen wish to continue his ascent?


    That would depend on whether Qiu Tu would grant him the opportunity...


    Let''s not forget, Qiu Tu had a trump card up his sleeve that had yet to be revealed, waiting just for this moment!


    Of course...these high-level secrets were not to be revealed to Guan Xiao.


    And so... thinking this... Qiu Tu then said to Guan Xiao, "Okay, I''ve got it, Section Chief Guan."


    "You''re doing an excellent job. Keep it up. I see great potential in you as my successor."


    Having said that, Qiu Tu painted a few more enticing prospects for Guan Xiao, then finally hung up the phone.


    After hanging up, Qiu Tu looked out the window at the rapidly receding scenery and silently pondered for a moment. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he picked up the Communicator again, found Yu Zhengyi''s number, and composed a message.


    "Yan Chen is about to make a comeback. I have something that could bury him without a trace, interested?"


    After typing the message, Qiu Tu pressed the send button.


    Although his own conflict with Yan Chen ran deep...


    The betrayal by Yu Zhengyi at the most critical moment, who had stabbed Yan Chen in the back, meant his conflict with Yan Chen was even deeper.


    Moreover, compared to an enemy like himself, Yan Chen would probably hate Yu Zhengyi, the traitor who betrayed him, even more.


    So... it was not himself, but Yu Zhengyi, who most feared Yan Chen''s rise in Xinjie City...


    A clever murderer never dirties his own hands.


    Using someone else''s knife to kill is the rule of kings...


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu didn''t bother to check for a response from Yu Zhengyi. Leaning back in the rear seat, he closed his eyes to rest, continuing on to the Investigation Bureau Office Building...


    And, together with Tan Hui Min, they went up to the 12th floor.


    At that time, the high-level meeting had already begun.


    Secretaries of the high-level officials were stationed outside. Seeing Qiu Tu and Tan Huimin arrive, they promptly stood up and saluted.


    Qiu Tu glanced at them and nodded slightly.


    Tan Huimin stepped forward and knocked on the door. Shortly after, Su Xiaowan opened it.


    Seeing Qiu Tu outside, she smiled, stepped aside, and whispered, "Chief, the Bureau Chief has been waiting for you for a long time. The meeting has been going on for half an hour already."


    Hearing the message conveyed by Su Xiaowan, Qiu Tu nodded slightly, and as he walked towards the meeting room, he smiled and said to several high-level officials inside, "I apologize, everyone. I went to investigate a clue outside the city yesterday and just got back."


    The Political Department operated in secrecy, with classified work contents. Except for the Bureau Chief, no other department had the right to inquire.


    Also, since there were occasional out-of-city missions, the expressions of the high-level officials remained unchanged, except for...


    Tang Feifei, seated in the main spot.


    She sat there, eyes slightly squinted, giving Qiu Tu a somewhat questioning look that seemed to probe deeply...


    Nonetheless, due to the relationship between the two, she did not speak, but simply pointed to Qiu Tu''s seat and said, "Minister Qiu, please have a seat first."


    "Xiaowan, give Minister Qiu the meeting record to look at."


    After that, she turned to the other high-level officials and said, "Let''s... continue our discussion."


    Taking the meeting record from Su Xiaowan, Qiu Tu listened to the exchanges between the high-level officials while reading the record.


    The content of the meeting record was simple, mainly detailing the current situation of the Boundless Heart Sea; introducing the intelligence that Zhao Ji took down the ninth region last night; and finally, summarized the discussions of Xinjie City''s Three Giants and the representatives of the Sanctuary''s factions and families from last night and this morning.


    Overall... the Three Giants of Xinjie City were somewhat reluctant to forgo this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change Xinjie City.


    As for the Sanctuary''s factions and family experts, opinions varied greatly with most holding reservations.


    After all... the deterrence of a Fifth Order Evil God was still very strong.


    Even the more optimistic experts hoped to hold off for a while, wait for a few days to send people to investigate, and attempt development only after ensuring there were no issues.


    In essence, the presence mobilized by Qiu Tu truly intimidated the Sanctuary''s various factions and family experts.


    They had high status and could leave Xinjie City at any time.

 Chapter 593 - 349: Credit Delivered to Your Doorstep! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    The "Development Plan" this time was attempted because the Xinjie Territory had no masters.


    Now that a Fifth-Order Evil God has claimed the Xinjie Territory as its own and two or three other Evil Gods are lurking covetously, they have no need to stubbornly stick to Xinjie City.


    For the Three Giants of Xinjie City, things are different. As the masters of Xinjie City, their fates are intertwined with the city: they thrive or decline together.


    The "Great Development Plan" was originally going to propel Xinjie City into a significant leap forward.


    Once it was truly successful, the Three Giants would stand to gain the most.


    With this political achievement, they could very well establish their future status at the upper echelons of the Sanctuary.


    Thus, with differing interests and perspectives, it was natural that disagreements arose.


    After unsuccessful negotiations, all parties compiled all the intelligence and questions and reported them to the Sanctuary.


    Upon hearing the various reports, the Sanctuary too was somewhat shocked.


    After all, they had not expected the situation to take such a drastic turn in just a few short days.


    After a detailed assessment, the Sanctuary''s conclusion was similar to that of the experts.


    Unless it could be proved that Zhao Ji''s presence was an accident, Xinjie City was not suitable to continue the "Great Development Plan."


    After all, it was much safer to develop an area under the control of a Fourth-Order Evil God than to directly confront a Fifth-Order Evil God head-on.


    If not under invasion, even the Sanctuary wouldn''t want to start a war with a Fifth-Order Evil God...


    This did not align with the current strategy of the Human Alliance...


    Such a result, obviously, did not satisfy the Three Giants of Xinjie City.


    Fortunately, the Sanctuary didn''t make an irrevocable decision. Instead, they left an opening: as long as it could be proved that Zhao Ji''s presence was an accident or that Zhao Ji had no intention of taking over the Xinjie Territory, then the "Development Plan" could still proceed...


    So, after further discussions, the Three Giants of Xinjie City decided to deploy a "Dare-to-Die Team"!


    Led by one or two high-ranking officials, below the level of Deputy Director from one of the three main institutions, they would enter the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region to explore, understand the situation, and verify suspicions.


    Because the current situation in the New Realm Territorial Area was unclear, it was very likely that they would face life-threatening dangers.


    Therefore... everyone who participated in this event, as long as they returned alive, would receive a rank promotion!


    Even if there were no vacant higher positions, they would still get a rank increase, becoming a Deputy Director with no real power, like Tang Feifei had previously been.


    Even so... since the mission was exceedingly perilous¡ªwith the Fifth-Order Evil God releasing a deterring presence and two or three other Evil Gods watching¡ªit was no surprise that none of the high-ranking officials were willing to undertake this task.


    After all, ranks can slowly be earned, but one only has one life...


    For the high-ranking officials who had just arrived in the Planning Area, indulging in luxury and becoming people of status, the risk and reward simply did not align...


    However, for Qiu Tu, it was different.


    After reading the meeting records, his eyes suddenly lit up.


    Wait a second... didn''t he himself know whether the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region was dangerous or not?


    Didn''t he himself know whether the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region had been targeted by Zhao Ji or not?


    Didn''t he himself know whether that presence was a misunderstanding or not? Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The danger was himself! The presence was something he had created!


    Moreover... wasn''t he, right now, in need of going to the Boundless Heart Sea region to refine the Central Hub, yet afraid of being discovered by Sanctuary families, factions, and Evil Gods?


    If he... were to lead a team into the Boundless Heart Sea...


    Wouldn''t the Sanctuary side avoid suspecting one of their own for no reason?


    And... from those three Evil Gods'' points of view, the one who obtained the Central Hub would be an Evil God from Zhao Ji and Larilo''s camp, riding a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature. They surely wouldn''t suspect him, a mere ordinary Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened...


    So... wasn''t this a merit and promotion opportunity just being handed to him on a silver platter!?


    -----


    -------


    However, for Qiu Tu, it was different.


    After reading the meeting records, his eyes suddenly lit up.


    Wait a second... didn''t he himself know whether the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region was dangerous or not?


    Didn''t he himself know whether the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region had been targeted by Zhao Ji or not?


    Didn''t he himself know whether that presence was a misunderstanding or not?


    The danger was himself! The presence was something he had created!


    Moreover... wasn''t he, right now, in need of going to the Boundless Heart Sea region to refine the Central Hub, yet afraid of being discovered by Sanctuary families, factions, and Evil Gods?


    If he... were to lead a team into the Boundless Heart Sea...


    Wouldn''t the Sanctuary side avoid suspecting one of their own for no reason?


    And... from those three Evil Gods'' points of view, the one who obtained the Central Hub would be an Evil God from Zhao Ji and Larilo''s camp, riding a Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature. They surely wouldn''t suspect him, a mere ordinary Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened...


    So... wasn''t this a merit and promotion opportunity just being handed to him on a silver platter!?

 Chapter 594 - 350: Larilos Escape! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    At this moment, as Qiu Tu entertained these thoughts.


    A few high-ranking officials also began to discuss the selection of the "Dare-to-Die Team," or rather... to pass the buck to each other.


    Guan Weihua tapped his own leg, then, with a pained expression, said, "It''s not that I''m unwilling to lead the team."


    "The main issue is... recently, I''ve really been feeling unwell."


    "When I was younger, I injured my leg, and during this time in Xinjie City, with the constant rainy and overcast weather, my leg... sigh."


    "So, I really can''t participate in this mission."


    As he spoke, Guan Weihua paused, as if he were providing reasons yet also hinting, "Just like a few days ago..."


    "Bureau Chief, you transferred the jurisdictions of over a dozen Public Security Offices away from the Public Security Bureau. I didn''t object... also because I''ve been feeling unwell lately."


    "So, I really haven''t lied to you."


    As the head of operations, a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened... claiming to suffer from rheumatism and old wounds after having his body strengthened twice... was simply insulting the intelligence of everyone present.


    But.... when they heard Guan Weihua broach the matter of "trading cups of wine for military power," the high-ranking officials present suddenly had nothing more to say.


    After all... the man had just had his military power taken away two days ago, even losing command of the Public Security Offices. Asking him to now risk his life was indeed a bit too much.


    As a result, neither Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, nor Shi Youxin, who were all Tang Feifei''s current confidants, said another word.


    At this time, Lin Ting also slowly raised his hand.


    As Yan Chen''s lackey and the head of the Special Service Department, he was never particularly sharp.


    However, he was quite adept at steering his course by the wind in simple matters like this.


    So, he too said with a smile, "I''m in the same boat."


    Nobody cared whether his "same boat" referred to a leg injury or having his military power revoked.


    After all, either way, he wouldn''t be participating in the Dare-to-Die Team''s operation.


    Since such matters could not be forced, Tang Feifei glanced impassively at the two men before turning her gaze towards Shi Youxin.


    Seeing Tang Feifei looking his way, Shi Youxin hastily waved his hands and said, "Director, you know my..."


    "I am a civilian official."


    With Shi Youxin being a civilian official and only a First-order Catastropher, he indeed wasn''t suitable to lead the Dare-to-Die Team.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s brows furrowed ever so slightly.


    She calculated...


    Currently, there were six high-level positions at the Investigation Bureau.


    Excluding Deputy Director Yu Zhengyi, who represented "the Three Giants unable to offer sufficient benefits," Shi Youxin, Lin Ting, and Guan Weihua had all refused.


    That left only...


    Herself.


    Should she... personally lead the team to inquire into the Boundless Heart Sea?


    Tang Feifei was not afraid of death herself, nor did she fear the likes of the Great Evil God, Zhao Ji.


    In fact... deep down, she always looked forward to the prospect of clashing with a master among the Evil Gods.


    Only, she felt that even if she agreed, the high-level officials of the Investigation Bureau, the other two giants of Xinjie City, as well as experts and guards from her own family wouldn''t agree...


    After all, the death of a department head was still within the realm of control.


    But if a Bureau Chief were to die, then the situation would truly escalate.


    The entire Investigation Bureau would be implicated, and even Commissioner Jiang at City Hall and Senior Colonel Lin at the military would be drawn in.


    Thinking this over, Tang Feifei momentarily didn''t know how to proceed with the meeting.


    Should they... put the matter on hold for now? Wait and see what the military and City Hall decide?


    With these thoughts, Tang Feifei felt it was somewhat unreliable.


    City Hall and Shi Youxin were the same kind of civilian officials, and most likely, they would all shrink back.


    And the military...


    The military had the fewest high-level positions. Now that the Security Department had become independent, there were only a handful of them left.


    Like herself, Senior Colonel Lin had just taken charge at the military and had yet to earn the loyalty of the troops. So, those few high-level officials might not accept this dangerous assignment.


    ''What to do....''


    And at this moment, as Tang Feifei was lost in such contemplation.


    Qiu Tu suddenly spoke up.


    He looked around at the high-ranking officials present, not directly undertaking the mission, but instead asking, "Director Tang, if I can return alive, my rank will be promoted by one level?"


    "Is that true?"


    "So... if I can lead the team back, I could become a Deputy Director?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the atmosphere in the meeting room came to a standstill. Several high-ranking officials involuntarily turned to look at him.


    Because they were all old foxes, they didn''t show their feelings openly.


    But from the slight changes in their expressions and the surprise in their eyes, it was clear they were shocked.


    The next second, Lin Ting spoke up.


    It might have been because he enjoyed watching the spectacle unfold, or perhaps he felt that sending Qiu Tu to his death and weakening Tang Feifei''s power would be beneficial for him. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In any case... he said with a smile, "Of course it''s true. It''s only reasonable for Minister Qiu to become a Deputy Director if he risks his life to investigate in the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "Everyone would be convinced by it."


    Having said this, he turned to Guan Weihua, passing the conversation with a smile, "Am I right, Old Guan?"


    However, Guan Weihua did not revel in schadenfreude or instigate like Lin Ting did.


    For some reason, he frowned slightly and warned, "Minister Qiu, be cautious...."


    "You are still young. You will rise to Deputy Director sooner or later, but you only have one life."


    After he finished, Shi Youxin immediately began to retort, "Director Guan, your words are not right."


    "Minister Qiu is shedding his blood and risking his life for the whole Xinjie City, for the Sanctuaries. It''s a commendable action, how can you discourage him like this?"


    As he spoke, he also began to urge Qiu Tu on....

 Chapter 595 - 350: Larilos Escape! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    And at this moment, while the senior officials were locked in verbal combat against Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei looked at him with a complex expression.


    She never expected that at this most critical time, it would be Qiu Tu who stood up.


    Yet... she didn''t feel happy; she only felt a bellyful of worries and concerns.


    Thinking this, she hesitated for a moment before speaking in a cold voice, "All right, stop arguing."


    "Since you all have decided not to go, then leave first. Let me have a word alone with Minister Qiu."


    "I have some questions I want to ask him."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the conference room immediately fell silent.


    After a moment, the several high-ranking officials exchanged glances and then tactfully stood up one after another and left the room.


    Since Qiu Tu had volunteered to take on the mission, no matter the outcome, the Dare-to-Die Team''s affair would have nothing to do with them.


    If Qiu Tu went, they would be completely carefree.


    If Qiu Tu didn''t go, it was because Tang Feifei had persuaded him. Tang Feifei herself would continue to arrange for others, just don''t come looking for them.


    At such life-and-death moments, everyone only chooses what is most beneficial to themselves...


    This is human nature.


    Not long after, once the high-ranking officials had all left the room,


    Tang Feifei also shooed Su Xiaowan out.


    Thus, in the spacious conference room, only Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei remained.


    For a time, the conference room became silent...


    The weather in Xinjie City was good today, and it was noon. The sunlight quietly filtered into the conference room, casting its glow on Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei.


    It draped them in a golden veil.


    After a long silence, Tang Feifei slowly began to speak.


    But she didn''t talk about the Dare-to-Die Team; instead, she chatted casually about Qiu Tu being late today.


    "You... where were you last night and this morning?" S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu said, "Where else could I be? At my own home."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s answer, Tang Feifei shook her head and said coldly, "You''re lying."


    She slowly analyzed, "If you were at home, contact wouldn''t have been impossible."


    "Knowing that such an urgent ''Red Medicine'' meeting was to be held, your secretary, your subordinates, they surely would have woken you up."


    "And when they didn''t wake you,"


    "It''s very likely that you stealthily hid yourself, or you went to a place where you couldn''t be disturbed... perhaps, the Boundless Heart Sea?"


    When Tang Feifei laid out her analysis step by step, Qiu Tu''s heart skipped a beat.


    Could it be... the fact that he had become the Domain Master was about to be exposed so soon?


    With this thought in mind, Qiu Tu hastily set his mind whirring, carefully considering what intel Tang Feifei might have and how many clues she had pieced together.


    After a moment... he had a guess: Tang Feifei knew nothing, it must simply be a bluff, or... they had an information gap. They were not even talking about the same thing!


    After all, unless someone knew all of his arrangements and plans, an ordinary person would not possibly connect him to "Commanding Rank-4 Creatures" or "possessing the aura of Zhao Ji."


    With this thought, Qiu Tu felt more certain as he said, "I indeed secretly entered the Boundless Heart Sea these past two days."


    "Then there, I investigated how to become a Regional Controller."


    "Yesterday, you all left. But I didn''t leave; instead, I continued to explore in the primeval jungle."


    As expected, once Qiu Tu confessed, Tang Feifei did not keep probing Qiu Tu but changed the subject, saying, "So... precisely because you were in the Boundless Heart Sea yesterday. You should know just how dangerous this mission is."


    "...So, this mission you..."


    She didn''t finish her sentence and was cut off by Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu looked at her, said earnestly, "I indeed know how dangerous this mission is."


    "But then... do you or the others have any other choices?"


    Pausing there, Qiu Tu continued, "City Hall has the most senior officials, but they are mostly in administrative positions, 99% unlikely to be the captain of the Dare-to-Die Team."


    "The military''s senior officials are the fewest, just a couple of minor characters. And they have a conflict with Colonel Lin. They are also highly unlikely to become the captain of the Dare-to-Die Team."


    "So, it''s just us, the Investigation Bureau, only I... am capable of leading the team into the Boundless Heart Sea for an inquiry."


    At this point, Qiu Tu added, "And... I also need this opportunity. I am too eager to progress."


    Saying that, Qiu Tu recounted in detail how Huang Shangzong had boasted that he wouldn''t let him advance within five years.


    To be honest, before this, Tang Feifei had some doubts about why Qiu Tu wanted to join the Dare-to-Die Team. She wondered if Qiu Tu knew some secret, or knew that the Boundless Heart Sea was very safe right now.


    But now, having heard Qiu Tu''s explanation, she had no more doubts in her heart¡ªindeed, he was forced into this.


    To not be promoted for five years...


    If she were Qiu Tu, she might also choose to take a risk in desperation!


    With this in mind and known for her decisive actions, Tang Feifei no longer continued to persuade.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, then said coldly, "I will explain your situation to Commissioner Jiang and Colonel Lin in a bit."


    "In due time, we will jointly submit a recommendation for you to become the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau and send the document directly to the state."


    She decisively stated, "Don''t worry. Only after we receive Chairman Huang''s confirmed approval will we let you set out!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words and looking at this cheetah-like woman in front of him, bold and resolute, Qiu Tu smiled and nodded...


    Leaving the conference room, Qiu Tu returned to his office with Tan Huimin.


    But what he didn''t know was that after he left, Tang Feifei sat in the hall of high officials for a long while.

 Chapter 596 - 350: Larilo Escapes! (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She, unaware of the true situation in the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region, was filled with concern.


    "Hopefully... it''s all just a false alarm."


    "Hopefully, Qiu Tu returns safely..."


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face was etched with complexity.


    After much hesitation, she finally picked up the Communicator and called Commissioner Jiang and Colonel Lin respectively...


    No matter what, since Qiu Tu had made up his mind, all she could do was to secure all the conditions she had promised to Qiu Tu!


    At the same time,


    while Tang Feifei was making calls,


    Qiu Tu had also returned to his office.


    He shut the door of the office and opened the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," from which he took out Larilo.


    He had now become the Domain Master, but... he didn''t understand the abilities, privileges, or the regional bonuses of the Domain Master.


    So, he planned to indirectly get some clues from Larilo.


    Perfect... he had just met Zhao Ji the previous night and had also learned many secrets about Larilo and Zhao Ji from the "Memory Fragment."


    Enough to bamboozle Larilo.


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu placed the "Soul Shackles" that confined Larilo on the table and prepared to start questioning.


    However... what was different from the previous days was


    today''s Larilo seemed a bit off.


    She sat quietly on the altar, her slender body clad in a black gown, looking like a dark flame, both evil and eye-catching.


    Seeing Qiu Tu release her, her crimson eyes, deep and indifferent, stared at him like an abyss.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu looked at her strangely and asked, "Your Highness, what''s wrong with you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s query, the corners of Larilo''s mouth slightly curled, carrying a hint of a teasing smile.


    She parted her blood-red lips and then asked, "Qiu Tu... I remember, you said my sister wanted to steal you away, even going so far as to bribe you with a Cuiying Dragon, right?"


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then involuntarily nodded, "Yes."


    Larilo''s eyes slightly raised, looking cunning and dangerous, "I remember, you also said... my sister said I was just a soul and consciousness, of no value, just like trash, right?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu looked a bit perplexed and nodded again, "Yes."


    Larilo leaned on the altar, swinging her bare, jade-like feet, "I remember, you also said my sister had given up on me, not willing to save me at all, right?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu finally sensed something was amiss.


    He didn''t bother answering the question but quickly looked at Larilo''s head!


    Sure enough, the loyalty that had already been raised to 27 points, had unknowingly dropped to 15 points!


    Qiu Tu was startled and quickly wanted to do something.


    But just then... suddenly, a light burst from Larilo!


    The next second, Qiu Tu''s Dimensional Space was broken open, and the tampered Boundless Divine Crystal fell in front of Qiu Tu! Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then, the Boundless Divine Crystal seemed to form some connection with Larilo, causing the Soul Shackles Altar to crack inch by inch!


    Larilo fiercely inhaled the essence that the Boundless Divine Crystal emitted, then glared viciously at Qiu Tu and yelled, "Qiu Tu! How dare you deceive me! I won''t let you off!"


    "I am now returning to the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region, once I become the Domain Master again! Reach the Fourth Order! I won''t let you off!"


    With that, Larilo activated the tampered "Boundless Divine Crystal," directly breaking through the spatial barriers, transforming into a stream of light, and entering the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region...


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu was first shocked and panicked. Then suddenly, he calmed down...


    Wait a minute? Where did Larilo go? What is she planning to do?


    ------

 Chapter 597 - 351 Larilos Sky is Falling (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket)

    "Larilo has now returned to the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region?"


    "Then she''s preparing to become the Domain Master again, using the Domain Master''s power to resurrect and restore her strength?"


    After going through the words Larilo had said, Qiu Tu''s expression became somewhat strange for a moment¡­


    He didn''t act rashly, but instead sat in his chair, looking at the shattered Dimensional Space and the Soul Shackles Formation, revisiting the situation in his mind.


    If he hadn''t guessed wrong...


    He probably had been schemed against by Zhao Ji.


    He had suspected earlier that Zhao Ji never truly trusted his relationship with Larilo.


    And it was likely she had deduced that Larilo was imprisoned by him.


    Therefore... to save her sister, while handing over the "Boundless Divine Crystal" to him, she must have tampered with the "Boundless Divine Crystal" in secret¡­


    The "Boundless Divine Crystal" is a highest-tier Cataclysmic Material, which is useful whether for refining the Cataclysmic Potion, crafting Cataclysmic treasures, or enhancing one''s own strength.


    Of course, this also included serving as an "energy source," a carrier for Cataclysm Formations or abilities.


    It''s very likely that Zhao Ji left a triggering array or ability within that "Boundless Divine Crystal."


    As long as the "Boundless Divine Crystal" approached Larilo, it could transfer Cataclysmic Power to her, aiding Larilo in recovering her strength.


    Qiu Tu had actually been very cautious.


    He never brought Larilo into Zhao Ji''s sphere of influence, nor allowed her to come into contact with various Cataclysmic treasures or Cataclysmic Materials. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Like this time... he placed all the Cataclysmic Materials, Cataclysmic treasures, and Boundless Divine Crystals inside the [Dimensional Magic Ring].


    But he put Larilo inside the [Gold-Addicted Wallet].


    However... the triggering array crafted by Zhao Ji using the "Boundless Divine Crystal" was obviously of such a high level that it could penetrate spatial barriers and take effect.


    This was almost an unsolvable problem.


    After all... whether it be Larilo or the Boundless Divine Crystal, they were the most precious things Qiu Tu possessed.


    He definitely had to carry them on his person or check on them from time to time.


    Unless he could predict the future and knew of Zhao Ji''s conspiracy, completely separating the two, they would inevitably come close enough to activate at some point.


    Qiu Tu recalled the whole process that occurred today.


    He sharply remembered that when he took Larilo out of the safe earlier today, her state seemed a bit odd.


    If he didn''t guess wrong, that was when Larilo had already started to receive energy transmitted from the "Boundless Divine Crystal."


    It was just because the executive meeting this morning was convened so urgently that Qiu Tu hadn''t paid it much attention¡­


    With that in mind, after reviewing the entire escape process of Larilo in his head, Qiu Tu also began to ponder how he should respond.


    First... one thing he could be sure of was that Larilo was still very weak now.


    In any world, energy cannot be silently transferred in great amounts without being noticed by anyone.


    Therefore, the amount of energy transmitted in a way that could penetrate through three layers of space and go unnoticed by Qiu Tu for an entire morning must not be much.


    This could be seen from Larilo''s use of the "Boundless Divine Crystal''s" power to break the Soul Shackles and space.


    So, Larilo should only just have escaped; her actual situation hasn''t changed much from the past period.


    And in her current state, once she reached the Boundless Heart Sea''s New Realm region, without other energy replenishment, she simply wouldn''t be able to go to other regions.


    Her hopes must only rely on two things.


    One was to obtain the regional center, using the power of the Central Hub to condense her soul and become the Domain Master again.


    The other was to rely on the Boundless Divine Crystals, Cataclysmic treasures, Cataclysmic Materials, etc., she had hidden in the Xinjie Territory to recover her strength.


    The former... had already been refined by Qiu Tu, and Larilo simply couldn''t find it.


    The latter...


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu clasped his hands together and directly opened the shattered Dimensional Space.


    Inside lay a pile of Cataclysmic Materials and small Boundless Divine Crystals¡­


    These were obtained by Qiu Tu using the coordinates Larilo gave him and by having the Cuiying Dragon Yiyi lead him to raid Larilo''s home¡­


    The quality of the items was average, but indeed there was a substantial quantity.


    It matched the collection of a Fourth-Order Evil God.


    More importantly...


    Qiu Tu had just refined the Central Hub, and although he didn''t have any other abilities, the only ability he had was "Infinite Vision."


    As long as he was in the Boundless Heart Sea, he could view every region, every corner, and every inch of land in the New Realm region from God''s Perspective¡­


    "So... Little Lar has just walked straight into a trap by coming back to the Boundless Heart Sea!"


    With this thought, Qiu Tu suddenly felt no rush.


    He took out the items from the shattered Dimensional Space and then placed them into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet."


    Then he left behind only one "Skull Talisman."


    Using the "Skull Talisman," he arrived at the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region.


    Using his Domain Master''s power, Qiu Tu searched for Larilo''s traces.


    And as he expected, Larilo was now looking for the Central Hub all around the streams.


    Although she hadn''t found it yet, knowing the length of the stream, Larilo was not in a hurry, but patiently searched upstream...


    Qiu Tu speculated that the reason she had waited until now to escape was that she had accumulated a wave of Cataclysmic Power that could help her look for the Central Hub.


    "Don''t rush... The duck is already in the pot. Let it stew a bit before eating."


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu deactivated the Domain Master''s ability, and then returned to the real world.


    Back in the real world, after a brief contemplation, Qiu Tu returned to the lounge and took out the "Substitute Guise Mirror." He transformed into the image of Larilo...

 Chapter 598 - 351 Larilos Sky is Falling (10,000 characters asking for Monthly Ticket)_2

    Then he arranged the summoning array for Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, and as Larilo, he issued an order to Cuiying Dragon Yiyi:


    "Recently, Evil Gods have been plotting against the Xinjie Territory, and it is highly likely that they have stolen some information."


    Therefore, for safety''s sake, unless Qiu Tu and Larilo personally came in front of Yiyi and manually awoke her, Yiyi should not respond to any summoning.


    Yiyi''s downside was a mind of only a three-to-five-year-old child, but the upside was the same.


    Because of her lack of intelligence, she was somewhat stubborn.


    Whatever order her master gave, she would carry out.


    So... after receiving the order from "Larilo," Yiyi immediately entered into sleep mode.


    After dissolving the summoning this time, Qiu Tu tried summoning again. This time, as expected... it sank straight into the ocean.


    After laying down his network, Qiu Tu no longer continued to deal with Larilo''s side.


    He decided: this time, he wanted to properly subdue Larilo and truly bring this Heretic Goddess Girl under his control!


    As for now, Qiu Tu still had other important matters to attend to...


    A guest should be arriving, right?


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu called Tan Huimin, had the summoning array in the lounge cleaned up, and then sat in his office, patiently waiting.


    The patience of this guest was evidently quite good.


    Qiu Tu waited for a full hour. In the meantime, he went to the Boundless Heart Sea to check on Larilo, making sure everything was under control: Larilo was still searching for the regional center in the creek, only then did he return to the real world.


    An hour later.


    Someone knocked on the door of Qiu Tu''s office with a "bang bang bang."


    Without lifting his head from the Boundless Heart Sea reports, Qiu Tu said without looking up, "Come in."


    Entering was Tan Huimin, who approached Qiu Tu, bent down, and pressed her heavy chest against his shoulder, and then softly said, "Minister... Director Yu is here."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu grunted, then straightened up and said, "Then please let him in."


    Tan Huimin grunted, stood up, and walked towards the office door with her somewhat plump legs.


    This woman, ever since being nourished by Qiu Tu, seemed to have become even more voluptuous, and the charm of a mature woman began to slowly emerge.


    Some young men might prefer skinny girls, but actually... only the real experienced ones knew that Tan Huimin was a real asset in practice, irresistible...


    His gaze followed Tan Huimin as she walked out of the office.


    In a moment, Yu Zhengyi slowly walked in from outside.


    Yu Zhengyi, after all, was Qiu Tu''s direct superior, so to show respect, Qiu Tu also stood up and went to meet him in the lounge.


    As they were both millennium-old foxes, the two dispensed with insincere pleasantries.


    Once settled on the couch, after exchanging pleasantries briefly, Yu Zhengyi leaned back on the couch, slowly beginning to speak, "Minister Qiu, I received your message this morning and then thought a lot."


    "Actually... I have a rather good private relationship with Director Yan. We have been old colleagues for many years."


    "But... public is public, private is private, these two mustn''t be confused."


    "We are officials appointed by the Sanctuary, and when we notice problems among colleagues, we should still take the initiative to point them out."


    "Or report to superiors."


    "After all... you know the situation humanity faces. Although because of mass destruction weapons, the Evil Gods dare not invade the real world."


    "Barely segregating the world with a barrier to contain them."


    "But... over these years, the Evil Gods have never given up on invading our real world."


    "They are constantly infiltrating our political system, corrupting our officials."


    "We should indeed be monitoring each other..."


    After delivering a sanctimonious talk, Yu Zhengyi picked up a teacup and took a sip of tea, then slowly and methodically said, "Minister Qiu... I heard you have something about Yan Chen?"


    Listening to Yu Zhengyi''s long exposition, Qiu Tu was nearly lulled to sleep.


    Now that the discussion had shifted to the main topic, he finally perked up.


    He took out a prepared document pouch and handed it to Yu Zhengyi.


    Then he said, "In this bag is a recording..."


    "That I secretly made for self-preservation."


    Curious, Yu Zhengyi asked, "Oh? What kind of recording?"


    With a face full of sorrow and a voice carrying memories, Qiu Tu said, "It''s about the inside story of the death of Jia Shu, the former Minister of the Xinjie City Political Department."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yu Zhengyi was suddenly shocked.


    Qiu Tu slowly said, "At that time... I actually intercepted intelligence that Deputy Chairman Liu wanted to intercept Jia Shu."


    "So I quickly went to report to Director Yan, asking the Director to launch a rescue, or to warn Minister Jia."


    "Who would have known that after Director Yan learned of this, he deliberately ignored it until the news of Minister Jia''s death came..."


    "I had been worried before that Director Yan would not save Minister Jia and might push the blame onto me. So I had prepared the recording device in advance."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, although there was no change in Yu Zhengyi''s facial expression, his gaze began to be contemplative...


    Qiu Tu caught the expression on Yu Zhengyi''s face, then the corners of his mouth couldn''t help but curl into a smile...


    Actually, the recording of Jia Shu''s death had been a trump card that Qiu Tu had held for a long time.


    Moreover, when Huang Shangzong had put significant pressure on him, he had considered using it. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 599 - 351: Larilos Sky is Falling (10,000 characters asking for Monthly Ticket)_3

    At last, he pressed it down...


    The reason was quite simple.


    Although this trump card was lethal, it required the right moment.


    At that time, Yan Chen''s position was too high, and he had enough value to exploit from Huang Shangzong.


    Even if Huang Shangzong knew that Yan Chen was one of the main culprits behind Jia Shu''s death, he would only suppress this hate.


    After all, in politics, there is nothing that can''t be dealt.


    Only now, when Huang Shangzong had become the Speaker, with a gradually solidifying foundation, and Yan Chen had even lost his member of parliament status.


    The relationship between them was no longer "like a cooperative," but a "vassal relationship."


    Huang Shangzong could now decide Yan Chen''s fate with a single word, and Yan Chen couldn''t bring much benefit to Huang Shangzong.


    This was the right time to pass this trump card to Huang Shangzong!


    After all, with Yan Chen no longer able to influence Huang Shangzong significantly, even if Huang Shangzong magnanimously chose not to seek revenge for Jia Shu, he wouldn''t support Yan Chen any longer.


    After all... The "Academic Faction" was never short of talent.


    There should be no few members of his faction who could compete with Yan Chen, giving Huang Shangzong plenty of options.


    But for Yan Chen, it was different: he had lost the biggest backer of his faction in the state, lost the trust of a state speaker.


    Also offending Liu Xiongyuan, the speaker, Yan Chen would never have a chance to rise again...


    By that time, he would be at the mercy of Qiu Tu and Liu Xiongyuan...


    Qiu Tu could understand all these, and the old fox, Yu Zhengyi, obviously realized this as well.


    A smile involuntarily appeared on his face...


    However, after smiling, Yu Zhengyi seemed to think of something, and suddenly asked, "By the way... Minister Qiu, there wasn''t any recording of this conversation, right?"


    Upon hearing Yu Zhengyi''s words, Qiu Tu huffed and said, "Director Yu, you jest."


    "What value would there be in recording our conversation?"


    Saying this, Qiu Tu, in a gesture of sincerity, specifically searched his pockets and then stood up to the side, saying, "If you don''t believe it, you can search the room..."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the old fox Yu Zhengyi said with a smile, "Minister Qiu, you jest. I, of course, trust you..."


    However, after chatting casually for a moment, Yu Zhengyi did not delve deeper but found an excuse to leave Qiu Tu''s office.


    After seeing off Yu Zhengyi and watching his back, Qiu Tu smiled.


    Then he walked back to his reception room and approached the sofa.


    Opening the tea table beside him, there it was, conspicuously placed, a small tape recorder.


    Pressing pause, Qiu Tu rewound the tape and played the conversation between the two.


    After confirming there were no issues, Qiu Tu made a copy of this recording tape and, opening the safe, also put it inside...


    ...


    A day passed quickly.


    This day, in the real world, Xinjie City was busy bustling, and in the Boundless Heart Sea of the Xinjie Territory, it was similarly bustling...


    At last, Larilo returned to her loyal Xinjie Territory...


    She searched the stream three times;


    Went through the two secret locations where she stored her "Boundless Divine Crystal" and family wealth about seven or eight times; sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Used the summoning ceremony for the Cuiying Dragon countless times...


    Finally, as she watched the sun slowly rising in the Boundless Heart Sea, gazed at the grass dewy with condensation, and at the towering trees slowly growing taller under the sunlight, she confirmed something...


    Her home had been ransacked...


    Just a few months away, and Larilo felt like the sky had fallen!


    Sitting atop a tree, her face was filled with bewilderment...


    Where''s my regional center? Such a large regional center?


    Where''s my family wealth? All that wealth?


    Where''s my dragon? Such a large, docile, and passive dragon loli?


    How... is it all gone?


    ------

 Chapter 603 - 353

    Listening to Larilo''s pie-in-the-sky ideas, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    Goodness! Even a swindler like himself got swindled!


    It was he who had originally spun the big tale, and now he was the one getting spun!


    But seriously, thinking he could get a regional center just with a cozy bedroll? Wasn''t that a bit too dreamy?


    A regional center?


    Maybe after she bore him seven or eight chubby boys could he possibly consider it?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu continued to play dumb, "Regional center, what regional center? What Domain Master?"


    After saying that, he seemed to recall something and quickly looked at Larilo with a surprised expression, "Your Highness, you couldn''t have lost the regional center, could you?" Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this point, Qiu Tu looked at Larilo with disdain, "If you''re not the Domain Master, then I don''t want you anymore. You''re not worthy of me..."


    Larilo:.....


    Seeing Qiu Tu''s mockery, a vein on Larilo''s forehead couldn''t help but throb.


    During this period, she had come to understand Qiu Tu fairly well.


    Qiu Tu was a true scam artist, a born politician¡ªnever a true word from his mouth!


    Yet, she still underestimated the shamelessness of Qiu Tu!


    How could one simultaneously rob their own house, yet mock themselves as if nothing was happening!


    However, Larilo was currently under Qiu Tu''s control, so she couldn''t break off relations with him.


    Under the threat of her Life, she managed a smile, then glanced at her delicate tiny feet and said with a hint of seduction,


    "Don''t say that~"


    "Qiu Tu, I see you always staring at my feet. If you want, once I''m restored, I might let you have some fun..."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu promptly crossed his hands over his chest and said, "Stop there, Your Highness, I''m not that kind of person!"


    "I always look at your feet just out of curiosity¡­ Doesn''t it bother you walking barefoot? Aren''t the soles dirty?"


    Larilo:.....


    Larilo felt the conversation could not go on.


    A mighty Evil God, fallen from grace and ridden by others! Every day faced with sneering mockery and humiliation!


    She felt it might be better to die together with Qiu Tu: let Qiu Tu kill her, and then her sister could avenge her!


    That might preserve more dignity!


    Whether or not Qiu Tu sensed Larilo''s resigned-to-her-fate mood,


    After crushing Larilo''s spirit, he started to pacify her with sweet words.


    He opened the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," and took out a Boundless Divine Crystal the size of a small fingernail, handing it to Larilo.


    Seeing the shimmering "Boundless Divine Crystal" materialize before her, Larilo was stunned at first, then looked up at Qiu Tu in surprise.


    Qiu Tu, seeing this, gestured twice and said, "It''s for you, no traps."


    Larilo looked suspiciously at the Divine Crystal the size of a fingernail, then looked up at Qiu Tu, and said with disdain, "I''m not someone who sells her body."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback for a moment, surprised that Larilo went in that direction.


    But he didn''t correct her, instead jokingly said, "This isn''t selling your body, this is ''bowing'' for love¡­"


    With that, Qiu Tu looked down at his own thighs.


    Larilo, hearing this, pursed her lips and scoffed, turning her head away, "That was a last resort, I regretted it afterward. Plus... my neck has stiffened now, and I don''t want to bow."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu stopped joking.


    He smiled and extended the "Boundless Divine Crystal" towards Larilo, saying, "Just kidding. My brethren are in no rush, they don''t need help from a Spiritual Body without even a physical form."


    "This, really is for you. No strings attached."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo looked at him incredulously.


    But seeing his sincere face... and considering she had indeed overtaxed herself today, nearing a point of dissipation,


    She hesitated for a moment, then closed her eyes and powerfully inhaled towards the small fingernail-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal!"


    The next second, the "Boundless Divine Crystal" burst open! Tiny stars enveloped around Qiu Tu and Larilo!


    Then, like a miniature Galaxy, they streamed towards Larilo''s nose!


    These specks of starlight, like the purest force in the world, entered Larilo''s body and rapidly reinforced her spirit!


    In just a moment, Larilo visibly solidified quite a lot!


    Qiu Tu sat by, resting his chin on his hand, quietly watching.


    Larilo was still in her same long black dress today, clinging to her exquisite figure, the skirt fluttering with the flow of the Galaxy like a black butterfly dancing in the night.


    This Heretic Goddess Girl, just like her sister, was the darling of the world, not only extraordinarily beautiful but flawlessly so.


    You could say she''s not your ideal type aesthetically, but you couldn''t say she wasn''t beautiful.


    After a few minutes, Larilo had finished absorbing the Boundless Divine Crystal, her aura rising steadily.


    Qiu Tu quietly sensed her, roughly judging that her Life aura should now be slightly stronger than that of an ordinary human, but she had not achieved the level of a Cataclysmic.


    After-confirming she hadn''t exceeded his expectations, Qiu Tu also felt a bit relieved.


    This time, intentionally letting Larilo have a day out was Qiu Tu''s plan to truly change the dynamics between him and Larilo...

 Chapter 604 - 353_2

    Don''t forget, when Qin Shuman first proposed the "Boundless Heart Sea Exploration Plan," her suggestion was to use an Evil God to conquer an Evil God. (Chapter 281)


    And when Qiu Tu carried out the plan afterward, he thought about luring the pair of evil goddess sisters to his side to use an "Evil God" against an "Evil God." (Chapter 301)


    Previously, Qiu Tu had no choice: once he let Larilo escape, there was the possibility of letting the tiger return to the mountain, allowing Larilo to go back to the Xinjie Territory to regain her strength.


    Therefore, he could only confine Larilo and then gradually seek information, clues.


    But now... everything was different.


    Larilo''s escape routes had been cut off by Qiu Tu, and her chances of regaining strength were also held tightly in Qiu Tu''s grasp.


    So, Qiu Tu could now offer her a certain degree of freedom, negotiate terms with her, and officially conquer her, then use an Evil God to manage an Evil God!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu silently waited for Larilo to completely absorb the Boundless Divine Crystal the size of a fingernail.


    Then, when Larilo opened her eyes, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Your Highness, feeling comfortable?"


    Having recovered a bit of strength, Larilo was obviously in a much better mood. She stretched lazily before saying, "Comfortable~~"


    "This is way better than watching poker a hundred times, a lot more comfortable."


    Hearing Larilo''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and said, "Do you want to feel even more comfortable?"


    Larilo hadn''t lost her vigilance yet. So when she heard Qiu Tu''s words, she immediately lifted her head and asked, "What are you thinking now?"


    Qiu Tu, like a creeper luring young girls, embraced Larilo, leaned in close, and whispered, "Have you lost your Central Hub and cannot be the Domain Master, nor can you regain your powers now?"


    Larilo rolled her eyes at him, "Yeah."


    Qiu Tu, "Do you want to have the Central Hub again, to be the Domain Master?"


    Upon hearing that, a light sparked in Larilo''s eyes as she looked at Qiu Tu, "Are you willing to give the Central Hub back to me?"


    Qiu Tu: ...


    "I''ll say it once more. I really didn''t take your Central Hub!"


    As he said this, Qiu Tu''s tone changed, "But... I know who did take your Central Hub." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu might really have become accustomed to deceiving people, as he spoke the lie with utter sincerity.


    For a moment, Larilo indeed wavered. But then she quickly firmed up her own guess.


    However, she truly wanted to know what Qiu Tu was up to.


    So she asked, "Who is it?"


    Qiu Tu gestured with his hands, "It''s someone... whose phenomenon is a whale tail as high as a mountain."


    "In human form, he''s over two meters tall, built like a steel tower."


    Larilo was stunned for a moment, "Whale Shark?"


    Qiu Tu shook his head, "I don''t know his name. But I do know... he''s been seen in Xinjie City in the past few days, and he has also infiltrated the Xinjie Territory."


    Larilo''s face showed a touch of deep thought.


    After a moment, she said, "Whale Shark is"


    ----------


    Just as he was thinking that, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing a body in front of Qiu Tu as flawless as white jade, exquisitely crafted.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted, in that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. And he still had to read a philosophy book tonight!


    So, he looked down at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then continued reading!


    ''Fuck "Existence," the significance of "Existence" lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking that extreme vulgar thought, which insulted philosophy, Qiu Tu leaped off the bed, picked up Fang Tangtang amidst her exclamations of surprise, and pressed her down on the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, bringing dark clouds to hide her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang indeed seemed to immerse herself in the role of a girlfriend, even as Qiu Tu noticed her frowning several times; the "injury" from yesterday obviously hadn''t completely healed, yet she still earnestly swayed her body, matching Qiu Tu''s movements...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized just how soft and comfortable Facial Cleanser from the Plain E people was...


    ''Facial Cleanser is indeed better when used by oneself!''


    Carrying that thought, Qiu Tu also imparted all his knowledge to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her with teaching and clarifications...


    After all, as the Deputy Head of the Political Department, he did have a quota for killing.


    She didn''t quite understand that sensation.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But then Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei onto the ground, tore off her bath towel in one go, and pounced on top of her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a feeling she and Liu Fuping had never had before...


    That completely different pleasure made her want to press her shoulder against Yue Chi''s mouth several times, trying to call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu held her up from the front, with one hand pressing on her shoulders, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude made it almost impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially... every time she was about to give up and wanted to kick Qiu Tu away, Qiu Tu would lean over to her ear and say in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, are you thinking of breaking the agreement?"


    At that moment, for the first time, Tang Feifei truly felt the sensation of being conquered!


    To be honest, Tang Feifei, who had always been strong-willed since childhood, couldn''t accept this one-sided "beating"!


    Several times she wanted to turn things around and triumph!


    But... she was after all a person who kept her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu, throughout this day and night, she really didn''t initiate any contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him....

 Chapter 605 - 353_3

    He was quietly exerting his strength!


    And this time, Qiu Tu had indeed put in some tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that if he wanted to conquer the woman in front of him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei relentlessly, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    Thus, they struggled until late into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, the 200-square-foot resting room, in all its rooms, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was about to drift off to sleep, Qiu Tu was also reflecting in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And really wild!


    If he hadn''t been promoted to a Cataclysmic, which greatly enhanced his body and if he hadn''t stopped Tang Feifei from taking the lead,


    He guessed... this wave would have made his back announce its retirement.....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei''s case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the darkness)]


    ....


    The next day, as the first ray of sunshine in the early morning appeared,


    Qiu Tu gradually woke up from deep sleep.


    He instinctively wanted to rub his eyes, but as soon as he raised his hand, his arms and back felt sore!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu drew in a breath of cold air, then woke up in the soreness, checked his arms, and then belatedly remembered his glorious achievements from yesterday, all day and night.


    Thinking of himself working hard yesterday, burying his head in toil, and thinking of Tang Feifei who was almost tormented to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back might be out of service in the future.


    Thinking so, he moved his legs a bit more, and the soreness shot up to his crown.


    "Let''s light one for Yue Kuaye as well, his must be wasted too...."


    After silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached for the side of his bed, only to find that it was already empty, leaving behind just a faint scent of jasmine....


    Although he had known all along that their relationship was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    "Shouldn''t there be recognition for hard work too?"


    "It''s too much to completely turn her back on me!"


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot and half-naked, came over with a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her curvaceous body seemed to be imbued with endless power and resilience.


    As she walked, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard sprinting quietly through the jungle, each step filled with strength and rhythm.


    When she reached Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to set down the medicine, then coldly said, "Drink this. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the establishment of the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    By then, he might have to face the threat from Huang Shangzong directly.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu needed to improve his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before then,


    Among the deputies of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belonged to the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu was from the Reformist Faction, and Meng Sanzhai was from the Fengtian Faction.


    These three people, according to the intelligence provided by Yan Chen, except for Meng Sanzhai, should all be unrelated to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he unconsciously looked towards Ouyang Heng sitting next to him, who belonged to the Free Democracy Faction and should have even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four of them supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, Meng Sanzhai of the Fengtian Faction was the most indifferent, merely showing lukewarm support for Qiu Tu and barely speaking at all.


    Really, he was like an Evil God, his mere words making others feel at ease.


    Color is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we people from Zhejiang are born with strong bones


    It feels more exciting to firmly grip the steering wheel when driving, sister seems a bit impatient


    Mountains are the geologically slowest waves


    Color? Not sure, only that the flowers are blooming brilliantly, I''d look uncouth not to appreciate them


    Thinking so, after successfully raising Larilo''s Loyalty,


    ------


    "To comply with the procedures and to avoid further complications, we immediately arrested Eagle once the Speaker officially took office"


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him a bit strangely, then asked, "Chief.... it seems like you are not surprised by this intelligence?"


    She was a bit puzzled and asked, "Don''t you think this information is important?"


    "There''s... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "You and the Intelligence Section have made significant contributions; indeed, you should be properly praised."


    "Once this case is cracked and all these Alliance Special Forces members are annihilated, I will commend you all to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao''s seductive eyes looked deeply into his, then she said, "Chief.... I''m not sure if it''s just a feeling."


    "I always think.... you seem to know about the Alliance Special Forces beforehand?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair, smiling faintly in response, "Is that so?"


    "Then...."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Qiu Tu''s words made Guan Xiao''s eyes widen slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao had long developed the ability and habit of collecting intelligence at any time, which also made her especially sensitive to certain emotional signals.


    So, after she reported the intelligence about the Alliance Special Forces, Qiu Tu didn''t show any shock or urgency, which made her keenly detect something unusual.


    However, even though her intuition suggested that Qiu Tu might also know this information, rationally, she didn''t believe it at all.


    After all, her intelligence was delivered by spies who went through great hardships and risked their lives. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could Qiu Tu know about it?


    Just then

 Chapter 606 - 354: Can I Become a God? (10,000 words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo...


    She felt Qiu Tu was just shameless!


    One moment he was robbing her home and stealing her regional center; the next, he was dragging her back to inquire about fast ways of refining!


    Even an Evil God was getting bullied!


    Really treating her as if she were dough to be kneaded at will!


    "Your Highness~"


    And just as Larilo was thinking this, a mung bean-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal" appeared in front of Larilo.


    Larilo: ...


    Her chest heaved violently...


    What was she considered now?!


    As a towering Evil God, was this the kind of treatment she deserved?


    "Another one..."


    Qiu Tu, "Alright~"


    Placing two mung bean-sized "Boundless Divine Crystals" in front of Larilo, she finally closed her eyes and slowly opened her mouth.


    She was quite straightforward in her dealings, knowing the principle of working first and getting paid afterward.


    "The method to speed up the refining of the Refining Area Center is simple, yet it''s also difficult."


    "That is... using the ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' to replenish what is spent."


    Upon saying this, Larilo opened her eyes and looked at Qiu Tu with an indifferent expression, "The ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' is the purest and highest-level power in this world."


    "To say it is almighty would be an exaggeration. But... it indeed has potent effects and many uses. Replenishing the Cataclysmic Power within one''s body is just its most conventional and wasteful utility."


    "And to refine the Refining Area Center, quite simply put, involves completely filling the central hub with the Cataclysmic Power that bears one''s own aura."


    "So, as long as you are willing, you can refine the Refining Area Center while using the ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' to replenish what is consumed."


    Hearing Larilo''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s face revealed a thoughtful expression, but he still retorted, "Your Highness, it''s a Whale Shark refining the Refining Area Center, not me. Don''t get it wrong."


    Larilo rolled her eyes impressively, too lazy to bother with Qiu Tu, this guy whose skin was thicker than city walls.


    She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and absorbed the energy of the two mung bean-sized "Boundless Divine Crystals" into her body.


    Just that... perhaps because Qiu Tu first offered a fingernail-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal," followed by a soybean-sized one,


    Larilo''s "mouth" had become a bit spoiled. So... after absorbing two mung bean-sized "Boundless Divine Crystals," Larilo felt a bit unsatisfied.


    She couldn''t help looking towards Qiu Tu''s pocket.


    That was where Qiu Tu had pulled out the "Boundless Divine Crystals" earlier.


    She... wanted more.


    And at this moment, whether it was a perception of Larilo''s gaze or not, Qiu Tu slowly came back to his senses.


    He smiled at Larilo and then asked, "By the way, Your Highness, a Domain Master is inherently a Domain Master, but what''s the difference between a Domain Master and ordinary Cataclysmic Creatures or an Evil God?"


    Larilo heard Qiu Tu''s words, rolled her eyes again, and said, "You actually want to ask what the benefits of being a Domain Master are, right?"


    Qiu Tu responded earnestly, "More or less. There''s not much difference, both are for helping Your Highness regain your strength!"


    Qiu Tu''s "brazen-faced impudence" was something Larilo had gotten used to.


    So, she didn''t bother to refute and instead stared fixedly at Qiu Tu''s pocket.


    She stared at Qiu Tu''s pocket, and Qiu Tu stared back at her, bringing a moment of silence to the top of the towering tree.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu waved his hand in front of Larilo''s eyes and said, "Your Highness? Your Highness? What are you looking at?"


    Larilo came back to her senses, just about to point at Qiu Tu''s pocket to ask for her reward for answering the question.


    But as she lifted her hand, she realized this was... too similar to begging.


    So she forcibly pretended to stretch lazily instead.


    Then, affecting an indifferent tone, she said, "Nothing. I was just reminiscing."


    After a cough, she continued, "There are three advantages to becoming a Domain Master."


    "The first advantage is... your strength will receive a significant boost."


    "For example, a Third Rank Cataclysmic Creature could very likely become a Fourth Rank Cataclysmic Creature."


    "A Third-Order Peak could very likely become a Fourth Rank Middle Stage."


    "A Fourth-Order Catastrophic Creature could very likely become a Peak Fourth Rank."


    "This boost in strength is indeed forcefully granted, similar to your human''s ''Pseudo Fourth Order'' false frame."


    "But it is still a real increase in strength and rank!"


    "It also allows you to perceive higher realms ahead of time, helping you to grow faster."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu''s gaze showed some deep contemplation.


    He probed, "So Your Highness... before you fell, you were at Peak Fourth Rank?"


    Larilo looked resigned, "No, Fourth Rank Middle Stage."


    Qiu Tu understood: originally, a little Third-Order Peak runt. No wonder she was schemed against by four Third Order Cataclysmics and met her downfall.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu fished in his pocket and pulled out a "Rice Grain" sized "Boundless Divine Crystal," handing it to Larilo.


    Larilo''s eyes slightly lit up, but she still pretended to accept it indifferently, absorbing it into her body.


    Then she continued, "As for the second advantage... that is, a Domain Master automatically possesses Divinity."


    "Divinity... this is one of the essential prerequisites for advancing to the Fifth Order."


    "Having Divinity doesn''t guarantee advancement to Fifth Order, but without Divinity, advancement to Fifth Order is impossible." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, many Third or Fourth Rank Cataclysmic Creatures become deities by chance after acquiring the Central Hub."


    As she spoke, Larilo cited an example, "Like the Whale Shark, which was originally just an ordinary Cataclysmic Creature, but accidentally acquired the Central Hub and was directly promoted to deity."

 Chapter 607 - 354: Can I Become a God? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu, upon hearing these words, couldn''t help but ask further, "So, what are the benefits of acquiring divinity and becoming a deity?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Larilo leaned on the altar, swinging her little feet, and said slowly, "The benefits after becoming a deity are too numerous¡­"


    "For ordinary Cataclysmic Creatures, it can drastically increase wisdom, awakening Spiritual Wisdom."


    "For humans like you, it means you can build your own Divine Domain, develop believers, enter the dreams of followers to communicate with them, gather the power of faith, produce ''Boundless Divine Crystals'' on your own, kill people in dreams, and so on¡­"


    At this point, Larilo seemed to have thought of something, and said, "Oh right, I remember there''s a rule in your Sanctuary. In the Planning Area, only heads of departments and above are recorded in the Sanctuary''s roster, right?"


    Qiu Tu nodded upon hearing this.


    Larilo gave a sly smile, "Well then, let me make a comparison for you. Only by becoming a deity are you truly recorded in the rosters of two worlds. You could say you are a real... resident of the world."


    When Qiu Tu heard Larilo''s words, he furrowed his brows slightly, feeling as though her words seemed to contain some hidden meaning¡­


    However, it was clear that Larilo had no intention of explaining, so Qiu Tu had to change the subject and continued the conversation¡­


    ...And so, the two of them sat on a treetop in the Xinjie Territory, one asking questions, the other answering, and they talked about a lot.


    During this time, Qiu Tu also gave Larilo a few "sesame-sized" Boundless Divine Crystals as a reward.


    Larilo was so annoyed that she almost threw those Boundless Divine Crystals at Qiu Tu''s head.


    But when she saw Qiu Tu open his ''Gold-Addicted Wallet'' and display his own fist-sized Boundless Divine Crystal, Larilo obediently accepted the two "sesame-sized" rewards.


    After all¡­ how else could she deceive him out of that big fist-sized Boundless Divine Crystal?!


    Feeling the essence that originated from herself, Larilo thought... if she could absorb that fist-sized Boundless Divine Crystal!


    She would at least be able to recover the strength of a First-Order Catastropher!


    At that point... would she still deal with Qiu Tu?!


    She definitely would sneak away to find her sister!


    However, Larilo was unaware that Qiu Tu was actually employing "108 Ways to Enhance Affection" from the Emotional Fraud Manual: Give Women Hopes and Dreams.


    In Qiu Tu''s past life, there was a widely circulated saying: Money is shown to women, not spent on them...


    This saying appeared frequently in PUA teachings or jokes, and even... many women knew about it.


    Yet... it was undeniably effective.


    Even if ten thousand women knew, there would be ten thousand and one women who fell for it.


    In the end, it was all about giving women dreams and illusions.


    Tell women you have lots of money, lots of Boundless Divine Crystals, show your value, entice them bit by bit into the trap.


    You can buy gifts, treat them to lavish meals, bring them on rides in luxury cars, let her know you have a lot of money, but... just don''t give her the money.


    Just like with Qiu Tu and Larilo, Boundless Divine Crystals would be given out a little, but never too much.


    The fist-sized Boundless Divine Crystal would be shown to Larilo, but... she would never be allowed to touch it.


    Only in this way, you can slowly reel her in, completely conquering her...


    ...


    Just like that, the night swiftly passed by.


    That night, Qiu Tu obtained many pieces of information from Larilo. Among them, the most important were speeding up the refining of the "Central Hub" and the benefits after becoming the Domain Master!


    This gave him an incredibly detailed plan for his future development:


    Using the name of the "Dare-to-Die Team" to refine the Central Hub in the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm, but ... intentionally leaving a bit unrefined.


    Then upon returning, he would advance to become Deputy Director, raise his strength to Third Order.


    Refine the last bit of the Central Hub, rise to Pseudo Fourth Order!


    Relying on the power of Domain Master and Pseudo Fourth Order, he would skyrocket! Sprint towards the position of Deputy Speaker! Continue to enhance his own strength!


    Thinking on this, Qiu Tu, after planning everything, returned to the real world with Larilo. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As soon as Larilo ran away, Qiu Tu had covertly transferred the Boundless Divine Crystal given to him by Zhao Ji to Shen Lingshuang''s villa to isolate Larilo from that tampered Boundless Divine Crystal.


    Storing Larilo in the repaired Dimensional Magic Ring, Qiu Tu didn''t return to any of his homes but went to rest in the 12th-floor lounge instead¡­


    He had been running around for days on end and simply didn''t have the energy to spend on any more women''s whims...


    A silent night.


    The next day, Qiu Tu was woken up by the ringing of his communicator.


    Picking up the call, the anxious yet caring voice of Guan Xiao reached his ear, "Director! You... you volunteered for this Boundless Heart Sea New Realm mission for the ''Dare-to-Die Team''?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, a half-awakened Qiu Tu, lying in bed, gave a lazy "hm" and then asked, "Yes, why? Is there a problem?"


    After a two-second silence, Guan Xiao on the other end said, "Director... this mission is extremely dangerous."


    Qiu Tu already had a sense of the danger, so he reassured his subordinate, "Don''t worry, with danger comes greater rewards."


    Guan Xiao fell silent again for two seconds.


    Then finally said, "Well... Sir, do you know that just last night... two Evil Gods officially invaded the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region?"


    Startled by Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu jolted wide awake.

 Chapter 608 - 354: Can I Become a God? (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    He sat up, then asked, "Two Evil Gods have officially invaded the Xinjie Territory? What''s going on?"


    Guan Xiao, hearing this, explained, "Director, you should be aware of the invasion by Evil Gods?"


    Qiu Tu nodded.


    This had been explained to him by Larilo last night.


    Evil Gods, or Deities as they are recognized by the World Origin, possess various special privileges. This includes forcefully taking over regions within the Boundless Heart Sea!


    Once an Evil God targets a region in the Boundless Heart Sea, there are several methods to acquire it.


    For instance, the simplest method is to find the regional center and refine the regional center.


    A slightly more complex method is to defeat the Domain Master and seize the regional center.


    And the most complex method is a direct invasion!


    A forceful invasion of a region means that the Evil God has dominated overwhelmingly and then refines and permeates the region with an overlord''s stance!


    This method is both immensely exhausting and incredibly domineering.


    Unless one has extreme confidence in themselves, they would not resort to this method!


    Generally, this is only used when the regional center cannot be found, or the regional center has been taken away by the Domain Master, or when they force the Domain Master to come out and battle.


    One recent example is Great Evil God Zhao Ji forcefully invading Peak Fourth Rank Evil God Chris''s region!


    Indeed, after forcefully seizing the region, the new Domain Master can, according to their will, condense a new regional center and then control the region!


    But now... those two Evil Gods have forcefully invaded the Xinjie Territory, clearly having no hope of finding the regional center and planning to directly refine and condense a new regional center in the Xinjie Territory!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu could not help but ask incredulously, "Have they gone mad? Aren''t they afraid of Zhao Ji''s retaliation?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao was silent for two seconds before finally responding, "Director... just last night, Great Evil God Zhao Ji left her nine territories and headed east to the depths of the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "No one knows what she''s up to, nor does anyone know when she will return."


    "But, the depths of the Boundless Heart Sea are very dangerous, and even for a Great Evil God, it is likely a life-and-death situation."


    "So¡­ those two Evil Gods probably dared to make their move because of this."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu''s mouth slowly dropped open...


    Honestly, perhaps because he had just woken up and was still in bed, Qiu Tu really thought he might still be dreaming.


    Zhao Ji... suddenly left? Went to the depths of the Boundless Heart Sea?


    Without any sign?


    Or was there a sign, but he just didn''t know about it? (Chapters 309, 345)


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu shook his head and then said, "Section Chief Guan, don''t rush."


    "Summarize the intelligence, including why Zhao Ji left and who those two invading Evil Gods are, and list them clearly for me."


    "I''m going downstairs now to check it out."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao nodded and quickly agreed.


    Perhaps because these events had happened so suddenly, Qiu Tu did not bother with washing up or eating. He immediately put on his clothes, took his Cataclysmic Treasures, and left the 12th floor for the 9th floor.


    Along the way, Qiu Tu noticed many agents and mid-to-senior level officials of the Investigation Bureau quietly chatting. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And upon seeing him come over, they quickly stopped their conversations, and with sympathetic gazes toward Qiu Tu, they saluted and greeted him.


    Such gazes made Qiu Tu''s heart sink continuously¡­


    It seemed the situation was indeed very bad. Otherwise... these agents, section chiefs, and bureau chiefs wouldn''t look at him with such expressions¡­


    After all, it was quite disrespectful to him.


    ------

 Chapter 609 - 355

    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu''s expression remained unchanged, but he was indeed gearing up internally, prepared to face this sudden crisis.


    He stepped back into his office, where Guan Xiao, accompanied by Tan Huimin, was already waiting at the door.


    This matter might indeed be important and urgent, which is why even she, who usually lacked a serious demeanor, wore a stern and earnest expression.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, Guan Xiao quickly raised her hand in a salute and called out, "Minister!"


    Qiu Tu nodded at her and then gestured towards Tan Huimin.


    Tan Huimin quickly opened the door for them both.


    Once inside the office with Guan Xiao, Qiu Tu sat behind his desk, then asked with a calm demeanor, "Tell me, what exactly is going on?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Guan Xiao did not respond immediately. She walked to the window of the office and then, pointing towards the sky outside, said to Qiu Tu, "Minister, take a look."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu involuntarily turned to look outside.


    Then, he saw the sky over Xinjie City had become very strange.


    The east was white, the west was black, and the middle was shrouded in misty grey.


    For some unknown reason, the entire sky had suddenly turned into a sandwich cookie. That clear divide looked like two forces were gradually devouring Xinjie City...


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu''s gaze slightly hardened, then he asked, "What is this...?"


    Guan Xiao somberly said, "This is a phenomenon of an Evil God''s invasion."


    "This morning, after daybreak, the sky over Xinjie suddenly exhibited this phenomenon."


    "Just a few days ago, when Zhaohui invaded another city, the sky had shown similar changes."


    "So, I immediately sensed something was wrong. Then, I began investigating and requesting intelligence from above."


    "The findings... revealed that last night, the Great Evil God Zhaohui left Dongye State and went to the depths of the Boundless Heart Sea, while Whale Shark and Xie Yue, two Evil Gods, took the opportunity to formally invade the Xinjie Territory." S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Guan Xiao spoke lightly, but in those few simple sentences, there was countless work she had done behind the scenes.


    So, Qiu Tu slightly nodded in agreement.


    Seeing this, Guan Xiao breathed a sigh of relief, then continued, "Actually... after receiving this intelligence, I should have reported it to you immediately."


    "But... this information is important yet not important."


    "After all... our Political Department can''t intervene in an Evil God''s invasion."


    "So, I wasn''t in a rush. I thought to report to you after coming to work."


    Saying this, Guan Xiao''s expression showed a trace of guilt, "Then... who knew, just now, it suddenly spread through the Bureau that you volunteered as the Team Captain of the Dare-to-Die Team to go investigate the Boundless Heart Sea."


    "Yesterday afternoon, the request was submitted to the State Council. Last evening, the Speaker personally approved it."


    "This morning, when the Administrative Office was processing it, they discovered this issue."


    "You also know that the Dare-to-Die Team''s matter has been the biggest news in the Bureau these last two days, so it immediately spread everywhere."


    A troubled look appeared on Guan Xiao''s face as she said, "Only then did I realize how deeply you were involved in this matter concerning the Evil God''s invasion."


    "So, I immediately called you to report."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu, with a profound glance, slightly nodded his head.


    Indeed, he had initially kept the news of his volunteering as the Team Captain of the Dare-to-Die Team under wraps.


    After all... the meeting was full of upper echelons, and there weren''t many sources of information. Besides... during the meeting, all the upper levels were shifting blame, so of course, they wouldn''t take the initiative to leak this intelligence and add to Qiu Tu''s reputation.


    Moreover... Huang Shangzong could possibly have stalled Qiu Tu''s promotion, rejecting his volunteer application, so Qiu Tu''s side did not publicize it either.


    So, Guan Xiao was indeed unaware of this matter.


    But... was this matter really that simple?


    Possibly because he had manipulated too many people, Qiu Tu was slightly paranoid.


    He hadn''t forgotten his entire journey from the twelfth floor to his office.


    Though the agents were still respectful toward him, their gazes carried sympathy.


    This indicated, they probably all knew about Qiu Tu volunteering as the Team Captain for the Dare-to-Die Team and the Evil God''s invasion.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu lightly tapped his fingers on the armrest of his chair and, with a thoughtful look, raised his head to ask, "The gazes of those agents I encountered just now on my way here seemed a bit odd."


    Though Qiu Tu didn''t specify, Guan Xiao, after a moment of stunned silence, understood immediately.


    Her gaze also turned somewhat chilling.


    Then she said, "Minister, I will go check immediately to see if someone is deliberately stirring things up, spreading the news, trying to set you up."


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu slightly nodded, then waved his hand.


    Guan Xiao saluted once more and then quickly left the office.


    After Guan Xiao had left, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair, quietly contemplating the matter.


    His instincts told him that someone was indeed playing tricks. The purpose was to set Qiu Tu up.


    By releasing the news prematurely, making it known throughout the entire Bureau, they put Qiu Tu in a difficult position.


    To continue serving as the Team Captain of the Dare-to-Die Team, heading to the Boundless Heart Sea, would mean a high risk of death.


    To flee from the battle, while understandable, would in an organization like the Investigation Bureau brand him with a huge indictment, completely unable to hold his head high again.


    Even... from the "sympathetic" gazes of those agents, Qiu Tu guessed: the person leaking the news likely did so under the guise of "giving him a big hat," "pretending to be good for him" by leaking the information.


    For instance... emphasizing how dangerous this mission was, how fearless he was, and so forth.

 Chapter 610 - 355_2

    ```


    In that way, even if it was discovered that he was the one who leaked the information, he could always claim it was well-intentioned...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but "hehe" with a laugh.


    It seems... not many people have faith in my mission this time.


    Honestly, since the invasion of the two Evil Gods, even Qiu Tu himself was feeling nervous.


    But... he had no choice.


    The Xinjie Territory was the foundation for a series of plans he had in mind!


    Regardless of Deputy Directors, Deputy Speakers, or Pseudo Fourth Orders, even Becoming a God, all required him to become the Domain Master of the Xinjie Territory!


    Thus, this mission, he had no retreat!


    And the only thing that gave Qiu Tu any semblance of reassurance was... up to this point, "Crisis Intuition" had not issued any warnings.


    This indicated that this "Dare-to-Die Team" mission should have a high likelihood of not being life-threatening... S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For Qiu Tu, that meant there was still a glimmer of hope worth fighting for!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu''s gaze became resolute!


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the same time, in the office of the Special Duties Department Director.


    Lin Ting, one of the six high-ranking officials of the Investigation Bureau and the Special Duties Department Director, was also on the phone.


    "Old Shi, it''s you guys in management who are really sly!"


    "The ideas you come up with are really ruthless!"


    "I just made a few comments expressing concern for Qiu Tu''s safety and let someone leak the news of Qiu Tu volunteering to be the ''Dare-to-Die Team'' captain, along with the news of the Evil Gods'' invasion."


    "In no time at all, word has spread throughout the Bureau. And even if Qiu Tu knows that I leaked the news, he couldn''t catch me out."


    "Hahaha. It''s incredibly underhanded; I love it."


    "I guess I''ve really given Director Yan a taste of his own medicine!"


    "That double-dealing jerk Qiu Tu! He''s got the comeuppance he deserves!"


    On the other end of the line, Organizational Department Director Shi Youxin was chuckling at Lin Ting''s words but inwardly shaking his head.


    True to form, a man of action, simple-minded with developed limbs.


    What use is an excuse? Does Qiu Tu really need a reason if he wants to mess with you?


    The real safe ones are people like me... who command others to charge into battle while remaining invisible behind the scenes.


    As Shi Youxin was thinking this...


    Lin Ting, after a moment of self-satisfaction, asked, "By the way, Old Shi, do you think by pushing Qiu Tu to the Boundless Heart Sea we can really keep him there?"


    Hearing Lin Ting''s words, Shi Youxin chuckled and said, "Minister Lin, you''re really worrying too much."


    "This is an Evil God invasion we''re talking about!"


    "Two Evil Gods in their True Bodies have come to this region to begin infiltrating the whole world."


    "They will search the world for the various ''Leyline Nodes''! And then they will permeate them!"


    "During this time, they will repeatedly sweep through the entire world."


    "Do you think they won''t encounter the ''Dare-to-Die Team''?"


    "Unless Qiu Tu has some precognitive powers or Infinite Vision, he simply can''t avoid the Evil Gods'' scouring!"


    "So... if originally their 7-day exploration period had a 10% chance of survival, now, it''s practically close to zero..."


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Lin Ting couldn''t help but burst into "haha" laughter, "That''s great! That''s great!"


    "As long as we can keep Qiu Tu there, I''d be happy to have fun with 10 more ladies tonight!"


    Hearing Lin Ting''s words, Shi Youxin laughed and shook his head, then said, "Minister Lin, don''t get too excited too early. Now we still have to consider the opinions of Director Tang, Commissioner Jiang, and Colonel Lin."


    "If they think the situation has worsened too much and there is no need to continue this exploration, then our strategy will be in vain."


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Lin Ting laughed "haha" a couple of times, then said, "Minister Shi, you don''t know the whole story..."


    "Do you think I really am a brute?"


    After speaking, he hinted in a low voice, "Have you ever heard that you can''t write two ''Lin'' characters with a single stroke?"


    Hearing Lin Ting''s words, Shi Youxin was suddenly startled.


    His mouth agape in thought, he then lowered his voice and asked softly, "Major General Lin Chuan, is he your..."


    Lin Ting, with a chuckle, said, "Cousin. But the kind from childhood, we grew up playing together."


    "When I first came to Xinjie City, it was also because I felt it would be good to have him for support, and it would be convenient for me to carry out my work."


    "Back then, we were only one rank apart; who would have thought he''s now one of the top three bigwigs of Boundary City..."


    Shi Youxin, upon hearing this, nodded thoughtfully...


    --------


    Meanwhile, at the same time, on the 12th floor, in the Bureau Chief''s office.


    Tang Feifei stood by the window, her voice cold as ice, talking on the phone.


    Her wheatish complexion looked terrible, and her eyes were full of coldness!


    She was like a leopardess guarding her territory, her voice cold as she said, "I disagree!"


    "The whole point of selecting a Dare-to-Die Team is to find out the situation in the Xinjie District! To see if we can still push forward with the ''Great Expansion Plan''!"


    "Now, it''s become clear. There are two Evil Gods currently invading the Xinjie District!"


    "What need is there for further inquiry? Isn''t this just sending Qiu Tu to his death for nothing?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Commissioner Jiang on the other side of the phone said helplessly, "Director Tang. I don''t want this either..."


    "But... you know the situation."


    "Last night, 80 Dare-to-Die Team candidates drank the ''Cataclysmic Potion,'' over fifty died, leaving only 23."


    "Now, if we cancel the mission, what do we do with these 23 people? Who takes responsibility for the fifty-plus deaths?"


    "Moreover... if the Speaker hadn''t signed off, there would still be room to maneuver. But last night, the Speaker already signed off."


    "Just now, the Speaker''s Attendant''s Room even called me to inquire about the mission status."


    ```

 Chapter 611 - 355_3

    Commissioner Jiang paused and added, "Additionally... aside from the pressure from above and below, The military really doesn''t want to give up on this Mission."


    "Colonel Lin called me this morning."


    ---


    While he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang bashfully covered her face, then undid her waistband.


    The next second, her bathrobe slipped down, revealing a body as sculpted and delicate as white jade in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to have accelerated for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Plus, he still had to read that philosophical work tonight!


    So, he looked down at the "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then he continued reading!


    "To hell with ''Existence,''" the significance of ''Existence'' lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking this extremely vulgar and philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leaped out of bed, scooped Fang Tangtang up amid her surprised cries, and then pressed her down onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling dark clouds to hide her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang really seemed to have immersed herself in the role of a girlfriend, and although Qiu Tu noticed her frowning subtly several times, yesterday''s "injury" clearly had not fully healed, yet she still earnestly swayed her body, in sync with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized how incredibly soft and comfortable the Facial Cleanser from ordinary people was...


    ''Facial Cleanser is indeed best for personal use!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu also imparted everything to Fang Tangtang, enlightening and resolving her queries...


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he originally had a quota for killing.


    She was somewhat puzzled by the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her too much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped the towel from her body, and overpowered her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she had never shared with Liu Fuping...


    That radically different pleasure made her several times want to use her shoulder to press against Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, in an attempt to call for a pause.


    But Qiu Tu kept one hand on her front and the other on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    That dominant attitude left Tang Feifei with no chance to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was about to break down and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean into her ear and whisper in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, the strong-willed Feifei could, of course, not accept this one-sided "thrashing!"


    She wanted to turn things around and sing victoriously!


    But... she was after all a person who kept her word.


    So... even if she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu, agreeing too rashly! Throughout that day and night, she never once initiated contact with Qiu Tu nor did she resist him...


    Just secretly exerting all her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, truly Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he must give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he intensely pursued Tang Feifei, leaving her almost no chance to rest!


    Like this, they struggled into the night until they finally fell asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, the 200-square-meter lounge, every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was drifting into sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And wild!


    If he had not advanced to become a Cataclysmic, and his body had not been greatly strengthened, and he hadn''t stopped Tang Feifei from turning the tables!


    He would have probably had to retire his back after this ordeal...


    [4 days and a half (Yin Caimei case closing time)] S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the Dark)]


    ...


    The next day, with the first light of dawn.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke from a deep sleep.


    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt aching in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu inhaled sharply, then woke up through the pain to inspect his arms, only then belatedly remembering yesterday''s glorious achievements throughout the whole day and night.


    Thinking of his labors from yesterday, working so hard that he only knew to keep his head down, considering the equally shattered Tang Feifei, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that it would likely be unusable from now on.


    Thinking so, he moved his thigh slightly, and the soreness shot straight to the crown of his head.


    ''Let''s light one for Yue Kua as well, it''s probably ruined...''


    Silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached out beside him, only to find that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a hint of jasmine fragrance...


    Although he knew that it had been just a transaction between them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Shouldn''t there be some acknowledgment for hard work, even if there''s no credit?''


    ''She''s not even recognizing me after turning over a new leaf!''


    Just when he thought this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei came in barefoot and naked, holding a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long and her curvaceous body seemed to contain infinite explosive power and toughness.


    Her walk came with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard silently sprinting through the jungle, each step full of power and tempo.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, she bent over to put down the medicine, and then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the Boundless Sea Heart Exploration Plan is formed, the establishment date for the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    By then, he may have to face the threat from Huang Shangzong directly.


    So, Qiu Tu must

 Chapter 612 - 356: Minister Qius Great Good Fortune (10,000 Words, Seeking Monthly Ticket!)

    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu fell silent for a moment.


    He felt that something was slightly amiss.


    Weren''t he and Tang Feifei merely in a physical relationship? How did it... become something else?


    He dared to venture into the Boundless Heart Sea, but only because he possessed the two powerful abilities, "Crisis Intuition" and the Domain Master''s "Infinite Vision"!


    Although it was still very dangerous, the chances of surviving weren''t low.


    But Tang Feifei had none of those abilities.


    Moreover, there was no benefit for her in going to the Boundless Heart Sea.


    So... she was truly risking herself just for him...


    ''This woman couldn''t really have fallen in love with me, could she?''


    ''Is getting involved with me really that mesmerizing?''


    After vainly musing for a few seconds, Qiu Tu decisively refused, "Feifei, forgive me, but I cannot agree to this."


    Tang Feifei usually didn''t talk much and also never influenced Qiu Tu''s decisions. Today, probably because she was really worried, she spoke again, "The reason?"


    Qiu Tu responded with a smile, "Of course, I''m afraid you might spy on my secrets."


    "You think I came here just to gather intelligence? I wanted to find a way to become a Domain Master myself."


    "What if you end up spying on my secrets while following me?"


    Tang Feifei didn''t reply.


    12th floor, Bureau Chief''s office.


    Tang Feifei wore a reluctant, bitter smile on her face.


    She touched the loose strands of hair by her ear.


    Her originally neat short hair, unbeknownst when, had grown longer. Although it wasn''t as long as other women''s hair that fell over the shoulders, it now hung down to her shoulders.


    This added quite a bit of femininity to her originally dashing demeanor.


    At this moment, the increasingly feminine Tang Feifei was gently massaging her temples with her slender fingers.


    She completely disregarded Qiu Tu''s words.


    She knew Qiu Tu was using that reasoning to refuse her. In reality, he was just worried about her.


    But... she really could not just watch Qiu Tu go to his death...


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei began contemplating ways that she could assist Qiu Tu without influencing him, yet still be able to save him when necessary...


    Meanwhile, as Qiu Tu was speaking with Tang Feifei on the phone, Tan Huimin had finally finished rinsing her mouth and returned.


    The young widow was still considerate.


    Seeing Qiu Tu on the phone, she approached voluntarily, knelt to tidy him up, then helped Qiu Tu pull up his trousers and fasten his belt.


    After doing all this, she walked behind Qiu Tu, gently pressed his head against her soft chest, and started massaging him gently.


    Today, Tan Huimin wasn''t wearing her uniform, but instead a blouse and short skirt¡ªbusiness attire.


    Because of Qiu Tu''s recent "eating outside," her blouse was untidy, and the buttons on the front were almost all undone. The two heavy mounds, encased in a floral bra, stood out prominently and felt especially soft...


    Resting on these two mounds, Qiu Tu, while enjoying Tan Huimin''s massage, continued chatting with Tang Feifei.


    After a few more exchanges, and several rejections of Tang Feifei''s kind offers, Qiu Tu finally hung up the phone.


    Seeing Qiu Tu put down the handset, Tan Huimin continued massaging while softly saying, "Director Tang is worried about you."


    Qiu Tu smiled, extended his hand to pull her slim waist, and in her gasp of surprise, drew her into his embrace, then said, "And you aren''t worried about me?"


    Possibly because she had not yet recovered from the stress of handling Qiu Tu''s ''child,'' Tan Huimin''s fair face flushed red.


    As she was half-embraced by Qiu Tu, she then adjusted her hair and softly said, "I''m actually worried... but... there''s nothing I can do."


    "So, I also don''t want to speak out and add to your troubles."


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu laughed, "How could you possibly do nothing?"


    "You can start now."


    After saying this, Qiu Tu, to Tan Huimin''s gasp of surprise, pressed her on the office desk and advanced...


    A new car still in its break-in period needs fierce driving to become more compliant and in sync...


    ...


    Just like that, a day quickly passed.


    Nothing out of the ordinary happened in Xinjie City, the calm resembling the quiet before a storm.


    But... only those in the know realized: nothing happening actually meant that something major had happened¡ªQiu Tu had not deserted; instead, he was ready to continue his mission to lead the Dare-to-Die Team!


    This outcome satisfied almost everyone except Tang Feifei.


    Far away in Cangshan City, Huang Shangzong, upon learning about the two Evil Gods'' invasion and Qiu Tu''s readiness to proceed with the inquiry, scoffed lightly and commented, "Overreaching."


    After work, Lin Ting, brimming with cheer for his cousin Senior Colonel Lin Chuan, brought some fine wine from the Sanctuary.


    On his way, he didn''t forget to call Yan Chen to report this good news.


    Shi Youxin specially arranged to meet with Yu Zhengyi, and the two of them went to Emerald Fort, each with a beauty in their arms, watching a horse race while laughing heartily.


    While the upper echelons were luxuriating in decadence ...


    In Xinjie City, at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu also rallied the Dare-to-Die Team!


    This time, aside from him, there were 23 people.


    Including five Section Chiefs and eighteen Agents.


    These 23 individuals included some of Qiu Tu''s acquaintances¡ªthe likes of Chen Feng, as well as Ding Xiaoliu.


    They had signed up without Qiu Tu''s knowledge and had luckily survived the Cataclysm Awakening.


    As for the other 21, twelve were from the military, and nine from the Investigation Bureau. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now, they all followed Qiu Tu''s command.


    Standing before these 23 Cataclysmics, Qiu Tu, with hands behind his back, paced steadily in front of them, his gaze sweeping over their heads.

 Chapter 613 - 356 Minister Qius Good Fortune (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    It was a bit beyond his expectations, the initial loyalty of these 23 people was all not low.


    Apart from Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu, the highest loyalty among the Investigation Bureau''s agents actually reached 67.


    This indicated that his authority was not the only reason for their compliance; they were loyal to Qiu Tu as a person.


    Even if Qiu Tu were not his direct superior, or had lost his position, he could still have them do some small tasks.


    Beyond that loyal agent of 67, the loyalty of the other 21 people was also all above 40.


    The agents and section chiefs of the Investigation Bureau generally had loyalty above 50.


    This was a somewhat astonishing figure.


    Qiu Tu guessed... this might be because the mission was too dangerous, and these 21 people had entrusted their lives and fortunes to him, hence the naturally higher loyalty.


    Of course, another important reason for this increased loyalty was that he had not fled before battle but chose to stand with them, to live and die together!


    And here were 23 Cataclysmics, moreover, 23 Cataclysmics who were indifferent to life and death!


    This force was not small even in Dongye State!


    ''I must keep this force firmly in my grasp!''


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu paused in his step and his boots made a heavy thud on the ground.


    Then Qiu Tu looked around at the soldiers standing at attention before him and said loudly, "Many people do not fancy our chances!"


    "Many also believe we are overestimating ourselves!" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They think our mission is bound to fail!"


    "Even, just this afternoon, I received several calls from friends, telling me to accept fate!"


    As he spoke, Qiu Tu''s eyes widened fiercely, and then he declared with immense momentum,


    "But I, for one, have never believed in fate!"


    "I believe that the outcome of a mission is determined entirely by oneself!"


    "Today, I have sealed my own fate!"


    "I am destined to succeed in the mission, to earn promotion and fortune!"


    "And you!"


    "Share my fate!"


    With that, Qiu Tu looked resolutely at everyone present and said, "I swear! In this operation, as long as you follow my orders properly, I will definitely bring you all back safely!"


    Qiu Tu''s power to beguile was indeed strong, so the morale of the Dare-to-Die Team members, which was somewhat low at the beginning, was reignited by his words as their eyes blazed with renewed fire!


    Truth be told, after ingesting the ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion'' yesterday, they really thought at one point they were going to die.


    Luckily, they had endured. Unfortunately... many of their colleagues and friends had fallen forever last night.


    Originally, they were all holding back a surge of anger in their hearts, aiming to undertake a mission of slim survival chances, and then to strive for promotion and riches!


    But then, who would have known, rumors suddenly spread throughout the Investigation Bureau and the military of an extensive invasion by an Evil God, and the possibility that the Dare-to-Die Team might be canceled!


    This was genuinely hard for them to accept.


    If the Dare-to-Die Team was canceled, then what was the point of courting death to become Cataclysmics?


    Neither the military nor the Investigation Bureau would likely promote them or raise their pay simply because they had become Cataclysmics.


    This made the risk of their lives they had taken last night, and those dozens of fallen comrades, seem utterly ridiculous!


    However, just when this happened, they found out that Qiu Tu had not shrunk back but had argued with the higher-ups to continue the mission!


    This suddenly kindled hope in their hearts.


    Yet, despite their desire for promotion and wealth, they equally knew that this mission was even more dangerous than the one two days ago.


    One wrong move, and everyone could die in the mission!


    This also made them incredibly anxious. Although they were seeking a future at the risk of their lives, who would want to die if they could avoid it...


    And now, not only was Qiu Tu ready to live and die with them, but he also promised to ensure their safety.


    Even if they knew this was merely Qiu Tu''s personal promise and didn''t count for much, in that instant, their morale still soared, and their loyalty surged by 3-6 points!


    With that, after the oath-taking ceremony, Qiu Tu also simply organized these 23 people into two teams and gave them codenames.


    The military had a total of 12 people, directly named after the 12 Earthly Branches, from Zi Rat to Hai Pig.


    Among them was exactly one female soldier who took the codename Mao Rabbit.


    As for the 9 members of the Investigation Bureau, they were named after directions, from "East South West North Central" to "Southeast" "Northwest"...


    As for Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu, as Qiu Tu''s Personal Retainers, one had the codename [One], the other [Six].


    Thus, with all preparations complete, the Administrative Office also delivered 24 ''Skull Talismans.''


    After taking one last look at the beautiful scenery outside the window, all 24 people simultaneously used the ''Skull Talisman''!


    The next second, 24 gates of space and time opened, they looked at each other, then stepped through the gates! Entering the Boundless Heart Sea!


    Returning to the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region, Qiu Tu immediately felt an inner and outer sense of joy and pleasure!


    It felt as if he had arrived at his own kingdom, his own world!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu controlled the Central Hub of his abdominal region, then checked the situation in the entire Xinjie Territory.


    At that time, two Evil Gods, one was searching around the Temple of Larilo, while the other was searching around the enormous ancient tree at the regional center.


    Generally speaking, ''Leyline Nodes'' tend to be associated with some peculiar scenes, so their searching rationale was not wrong.


    However, this gave Qiu Tu and his team an opportunity to regroup.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu checked on his team members.

 Chapter 614 - 356 Minister Qiu Is Quite Fortunate (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    23 team members scattered in twos and threes at the edge of the region, were searching for the "Pioneer Base" using the "Direction Instrument" they carried, according to the rendezvous plan set before departure.


    Qiu Tu, who possessed infinite vision, was extracting and refining the Central Hub of the region while pulling out the "Boundless Divine Crystal" from his pocket and heading towards Mao Tu, the team member closest to him.


    Two minutes later, Qiu Tu successfully found Mao Tu.


    Mao Tu was a girl with a somewhat cute appearance. Standing at 1.55 meters, she was a bit short. Her small rabbit teeth, when she smiled, gave off an adorable feeling.


    She seemed more like the girl next door than a female soldier.


    This led Qiu Tu to not have a very good impression of her.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu always felt there was a familiar scent about her... like she was an operative from a secret line of work.


    However, Mao Tu''s loyalty score was as high as 56 points, which made it difficult for Qiu Tu to doubt her...


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu rushed through the jungle and quickly arrived at Mao Tu''s location!


    Before Qiu Tu emerged, Mao Tu heard the "rustling" friction noises in the woods, held her dagger in a defensive stance, and cautiously hid to one side on guard.


    As a result, when she saw that the person coming out of the trees was Qiu Tu, her face immediately revealed a surprised expression.


    "Hello, Chief!"


    Emerging from behind a big tree, Mao Tu saluted Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu nodded at her expressionlessly and then said succinctly, "Stay close to me, we''re going to the ''Pioneer Base''."


    "Okay!" Hearing Qiu Tu''s order, Mao Tu hurriedly followed.


    Just like that, after running for three to four minutes, Qiu Tu suddenly slowed his pace, then asked, "Can your ability still penetrate the world barrier?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s abrupt question, Mao Tu''s face broke into a brilliant smile.


    She gave Qiu Tu a sly smile and then asked, "When did Minister Qiu notice?"


    Qiu Tu:.....


    He hadn''t actually noticed. He was just bluffing. And who knew it would actually work...


    After Tang Feifei wanted to save him, Qin Shuman also secretly came over?


    With that thought, Qiu Tu said irritably, "What are you doing here? Worried about me?"


    Compared to Tang Feifei''s straightforwardness, Qin Shuman was actually more like Qiu Tu.


    With her hands behind her back, she ran beside Qiu Tu, her coy smile charming, "Minister Qiu is too self-absorbed."


    "Investigating a major event like the Boundless Heart Sea New Realm region, of course our Security Department needs to get firsthand data. This facilitates a rough judgment for Xinjie City''s subsequent superhuman affair work."


    "As for being worried about Minister Qiu...."


    She laughed, "That''s just incidental."


    The most charming thing about Qin Shuman was that her clearly spoken lies were logically tight.


    And her even more enticing trait was... despite the logical tightness in her words, you could distinctly feel she was lying, that she truly cared about you!


    Such a woman''s heart was soft enough to twist around one''s finger, leading one around in circles, utterly addictive.


    Therefore, hearing her words, the corners of Qiu Tu''s mouth also couldn''t help but curl into a smile.


    Meanwhile, Qin Shuman spoke again.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, blinked, and then said, "But, Minister Qiu... sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Your good fortune with women seems to be really not shallow... Although, I didn''t come for you. But there really is someone who came for you~"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s words, Qiu Tu''s steps involuntarily paused.


    He looked towards Qin Shuman, who had possessed Mao Tu, and asked tentatively, "Tang Feifei?"


    Qin Shuman nodded, smiling, "Director Tang spent a fortune to acquire a shape-shifting type of Cataclysmic treasure from the Security Department."


    "She has already infiltrated the Dare-to-Die Team."


    Qiu Tu:....


    Good grief, she came after all!


    At this moment, thinking about Larilo he carried and Qin Shuman at his side,


    for a time, Qiu Tu felt his head swell: this felt like a collision course.... hoping this wouldn''t turn into a Carnage Ground.


    ------


    Chapter of 10,000 words ha! Requesting Monthly Ticket!

 Chapter 615 - 357

    Qiu Tu didn''t know whether Qin Shuman had detected his nervous expression.


    While following beside Qiu Tu, Qin Shuman curiously asked, "Minister Qiu, I feel... you seem a bit nervous."


    "Do you and Director Tang not get along?"


    Hearing Qin Shuman''s probing, Qiu Tu felt a sudden jolt in his heart.


    This was exactly what he had been afraid of!


    The three women hadn''t even met yet, and the first probe had already arrived.


    Thinking thus, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but rapidly turn his thoughts, pondering how to handle this minor test before the major one.


    He felt that directly denying his relationship with Tang Feifei was definitely unrealistic.


    After all, one could say that Qin Shuman was not shrewd enough or thorough in her actions, but one couldn''t say she was incompetent.


    Especially in terms of her ability to gather intelligence, this woman was one of the strongest people Qiu Tu had ever met.


    Otherwise, when Dai Yukang was promoted to Deputy Speaker, he wouldn''t have given her the important position of head of the Security Department in Xinjie City.


    So... he couldn''t lie. He could only slightly alter some details!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu quickly forced a smile and then said, "How could that be?"


    He stated earnestly, "Director Tang is one of my closest superiors. I''ve always had a good relationship with her."


    Qin Shuman looked at Qiu Tu with a smile in her eyes, "Just a superior?"


    Qiu Tu felt that today''s Qin Shuman was particularly aggressive!


    Even more so than Tan Huimin earlier that day¡ªthe woman probably feared she wouldn''t be able to return, so she directly confronted him!


    Moreover, she wasn''t picky at all, drinking milk and eating bananas. After finishing the interaction, she continued to force Qiu Tu to survive in a tight spot.


    She truly didn''t leave any breathing room for Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu was still feeling a bit sore in his back now.


    And now, Qin Shuman was giving Qiu Tu the same feeling, with one wave of offense after another, leaving him unable to respond.


    As Qiu Tu thought this, Qin Shuman made another move, curiously looking at Qiu Tu, and asking, "I heard... you often visit Director Tang''s office? And occasionally you even spend the night at her place?"


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu coughed once, "Subjectively, no. Objectively, perhaps there is."


    Qin Shuman "Oh~" with a laugh, watching Qiu Tu, the smile almost spilling from her lips.


    Qiu Tu felt like he was sitting on pins and needles, with thorns in his back, like a bone stuck in his throat.


    He took a deep breath, thinking that rather than being slowly sliced by this soft knife, it was better to be honest!


    Just then, Qin Shuman suddenly changed the topic.


    With a serious face, she said, "I don''t know why Director Tang has come; she hasn''t told me."


    "But... I came this time because I''m worried about you."


    "This operation is far too dangerous."


    "The higher-ups making such a decision is really making a joke of your lives."


    "So... my coming here actually has two purposes."


    "One is to bring you a Cataclysmic treasure, named ''Spiritual Escape''."


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman handed a small pendant to Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu curiously reached out to receive it.


    Qin Shuman explained, "This Cataclysmic treasure has no other function, just one: it preserves consciousness."


    "If your soul suffers a fatal wound within the Boundless Heart Sea, it can retain a strand of your consciousness!"


    "This way, at least you have a sliver of hope to survive."


    "If you could be found by the subsequent rescue team, and return to your body."


    "Even though the path through the Cataclysm is severed, but... at least you could still survive, and... your strength would be greater than that of an ordinary person."


    At the end, Qin Shuman made a joke.


    Qiu Tu couldn''t help but glance at her, taking the pendant, his gaze somewhat stirred.


    He felt that indeed... two hours of love is the best. A night of love is also acceptable. A love too long... tends to make one anxious.


    Qin Shuman, such an independent, self-sufficient woman, still exploded gold coins for his sake.


    If this were his previous life, he could now slowly begin to close the net...


    Qin Shuman had no idea what Qiu Tu was wildly imagining. She continued,


    "As for the second reason, it''s to collect firsthand intelligence on the invasion of the Evil God."


    "This invasion by the Evil God will surely create a huge shift in the landscape of Xinjie City."


    "For the Security Department, specially tasked with handling supernatural affairs, our intelligence work still needs to be ahead of the curve."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu slightly nodded, then internally judged Qin Shuman''s second reason as an excuse.


    Wanting to collect intelligence didn''t necessarily require risking herself in person.


    You should know, the Yinxin Sea is a world of spirits. Qin Shuman''s consciousness possessed this world.


    Once Mao Tu is injured, she wouldn''t remain unaffected like in the real world; she might likely be injured as well.


    And if the Evil God acted swiftly, Qin Shuman''s consciousness might be dispersed along with Mao Tu!


    So, coming into Yinxin Sea possessed as opposed to in person doesn''t make much difference.


    Ah¡­ really, such heavy favor from a beauty.


    Thus, as Qiu Tu thought this, the two of them quickly arrived at the "Pioneer Base". S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This was Qiu Tu''s first time seeing the Sanctuary''s Pioneer Base.


    This base wasn''t large; its perimeter was made from chunks of bluestone, and inside were several Wubao. Under the sunlight, they reflected a cold, ancient bluish light.


    Upon reaching the base, Qiu Tu pulled out a small blue stone. The next second, the base''s bluestone walls began to move upward and outward, soon forming an arch-shaped gate.


    Qiu Tu and Qin Shuman walked in. Inside the base, there were already six or seven members of the "Dare-to-Die Team," seriously chatting with stern expressions.

 Chapter 616 - 357_2

    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, they all stood up and saluted him with a question.


    Qiu Tu''s gaze swept over them, hoping to identify Tang Feifei. But... he drew a blank.


    He nodded to the few individuals, signaling them to rest for now. He then went to the Wubao, to collect equipment according to the information Tang Feifei had provided that afternoon.


    In the Boundless Heart Sea, being a spiritual world, hot weapons were ineffective. Cold weapons, although somewhat effective, were not very useful in the hands of these newly promoted Cataclysmics.


    Against enemies, it was always better to run fast than anything else.


    Therefore, the equipment Qiu Tu intended to collect consisted solely of "Escape," "Record," "Inquiry," and "Communication" types of gear.


    Since there was no electricity or signals in the Boundless Heart Sea, these four types of equipment were Cataclysmic treasures and very expensive.


    Aside from the "Escape" treasures, there were only four each of the "Record," "Communication," and "Inquiry" treasures.


    As such, Qiu Tu decided to organize the Dare-to-Die Team into four squads, each with six members, and execute their missions.


    His main purpose for coming to the Boundless Heart Sea was to refine the Refining Area Center, but the mission of the "Dare-to-Die Team" still had to be carried out.


    After all, he relied on the tasks of the Dare-to-Die Team to get promoted to Deputy Director, advance to Third Order, and then become the Domain Master to reach Fourth Order!


    So, for those seven days'' mission, he was clear-headed: he was to carry out guerrilla warfare, relying on Infinite Vision and Crisis Intuition!


    While conducting guerrilla warfare, he would refine the Refining Area Center and investigate the situations and weaknesses of the two Evil Gods.


    To prepare for war with the Evil Gods, they were to drive them out of the Xinjie District and gather intelligence!


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu, clutching the prepared Cataclysmic treasures, returned to the base camp.


    By this time, seven or eight more members of the Dare-to-Die Team had arrived at the base camp, presumably having just arrived one after the other.


    Qiu Tu activated his Infinite Vision for a few seconds to assess the current situation in Xinjie City.


    The two Evil Gods were still searching the Central Hub and Lariluo Temple, while the other seven or eight agents had almost reached the base.


    Qiu Tu felt slightly relieved inside: the most dangerous phase, the rendezvous, was over.


    Now, as long as the four squads got their communication equipment and kept getting his constant directions, there shouldn''t be any big problems.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu sat on a bluestone bench and made small talk with the members of his Dare-to-Die Team, busily increasing Favorability.


    And so, after another six or seven minutes, the remaining members of the Dare-to-Die Team arrived consecutively.


    Seeing that everyone had assembled,


    ----------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words! Vote for Monthly Ticket!


    --------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face and then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off to reveal a body before Qiu Tu that was like carved white jade.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. And he still had to read that philosophical work tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to the book "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then continued to read!


    ''Fuck "Existence," the meaning of "existence" lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking these obscene, philosophy-denigrating thoughts, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed and, amidst Fang Tangtang''s exclamations, scooped her up and pinned her down on the bed...


    The moon, Blue Moon, blushed and pulled the clouds over to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang battled passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang really seemed to get into the role of a girlfriend; even though Qiu Tu noticed she furrowed her brows several times¡ªthe "wounds" from yesterday were obviously not fully healed¡ªyet she still earnestly swayed her body, in sync with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable plain E facial cleanser was...


    ''A facial cleanser is indeed best when used on oneself!''


    With that thought in mind, Qiu Tu was generous with Fang Tangtang, imparting his knowledge and resolving her questions...


    After all, as the Deputy Director of the Political Department, he did have a quota for killing.


    She didn''t quite understand that sensation.


    It just felt extremely comfortable... S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped the towel off her body, and overwhelmed her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation that she and Liu Fuping had never had before...


    The distinct pleasure made her want to push against Qiu Tu with her shoulders to ask for a pause, several times.


    But Qiu Tu held her from the front with one hand and her shoulder with the other, keeping her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude made Tang Feifei almost unable to resist.


    Especially when... every time she was about to give in and wanted to push Qiu Tu off, he would whisper in her ear, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, like the strong-willed person she was from a young age, of course, she couldn''t accept being "pummeled" one-sidedly!


    Several times she wanted to turn the tables and sing the victory song!


    But... she was after all a person who kept her word.


    So... even if she inwardly cursed herself for agreeing to Qiu Tu, for being too hasty with the agreement! Throughout the day and night, she truly did not initiate contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She was just secretly gathering her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time indeed put forth Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!

 Chapter 617 - 357_3

    He clung to Tang Feifei tightly, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    Thus, they struggled on until deep into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, the 200-square-foot rest area, in every room, already bore the marks of their battle...


    As he was about to drift asleep in a daze, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart, "Tang Feifei really is strong! And really wild!"


    If he hadn''t become a Cataclysmic and gained a significant enhancement to his body, plus the fact he forbade Tang Feifei from turning the tables...


    He estimated... after this round, his back would be declaring retirement...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (Dangers in the Dark)]


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first ray of sunlight in the early morning,


    Qiu Tu slowly awoke from a deep sleep.


    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt a soreness in his arm and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu drew in a breath of cold air, then became fully awake amidst the soreness, checked his arm, and only then belatedly remembered yesterday''s magnificent achievements from the whole day and night.


    Thinking of how hard he worked yesterday, with his head down and toiling away, and thinking of Tang Feifei, who was almost tormented to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his own back...


    Feeling that his back might be out of commission from now on.


    Thinking this, he moved his thigh slightly, and the soreness shot straight up to his crown.


    ''Forget it, I should light one for Yue Kuaye as well, it''s probably done for too...''


    Reflecting on the intensity of yesterday''s fight, Qiu Tu reflexively reached out beside him, only to realize that the spot next to him was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he knew that the two of them were just partaking in a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Don''t I even get credit for hard work?''


    ''That''s too much of a cold shoulder!''


    Just as he had this thought, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefooted, bare-legged, and almost naked, came over with a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were slim, her curvaceous body seemed to contain an endless power and resilience.


    There was an indescribable rhythm in her walk, as if she were a leopard stealthily speeding through the jungle, each step filled with strength and tempo.


    She came to Qiu Tu''s side, bent over to put down the medicine, then said coldly, "Drink it up. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... should the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" come to fruition, the inauguration of Dongye State Council might be moved forward once again. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    By then, he might have to face a direct threat from Huang Shangzong.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had to improve his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before that happened,


    Among the several vice-ministers of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is from the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu is from the Reformist Faction, and Meng Sanzhai is from the Fengtian Faction.


    According to the information provided by Yan Chen, except for Meng Sanzhai, none of them should have anything to do with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but look over at Ouyang Heng, who was sitting beside him¡ªOuyang Heng belonged to the Free Democracy Faction and had even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four of them supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four people, it was Meng Sanzhai from the Fengtian Faction who was the most laid-back. Aside from showing support for Qiu Tu, he barely said anything.


    It''s no wonder they call him an Evil God, he''s so pleasant when he talks.


    Beauty is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we People of Zhejiang are naturally bone-headed.


    Gripping the steering wheel tight is what makes driving exciting, sister seems a bit impatient though.


    Mountains are extremely slow waves from geological epochs.


    Beauty? I''m not sure, the flowers are blooming splendidly, not admiring them would seem like I don''t appreciate beauty.


    With these thoughts, after successfully gaining Larilo''s Loyalty, Qiu Tu didn''t bother much with Larilo anymore...


    ------


    "In order to comply with the process and to avoid any complicated issues that might arise over time, we decided to arrest the Eagle as soon as the Speaker officially takes office."


    ---------


    After getting the go-ahead from Qiu Tu, Guan Xiao looked at Qiu Tu curiously and then asked, "Commander... You don''t seem surprised at all by this intelligence?"


    She asked doubtfully, "Don''t you think this information is very important?"


    "Just... no commendation? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He nodded his head and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has made such significant contributions; indeed, they deserve substantial praise."


    "Once this case is cracked and these United Front Special Combat Team members are annihilated, I will commend your efforts to the higher-ups on your behalf."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao''s seductive eyes looked deeply at Qiu Tu and said, "Commander... I don''t know if it''s just a hunch."


    "I have the feeling... that you knew about the Alliance Special Forces before I did?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu was leaning back in his chair, smiling faintly in response, "Really?"


    "Then..."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Qiu Tu''s words caused Guan Xiao''s eyes to widen slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao had developed the ability and habit of gathering information at all times. This also made her particularly sensitive to certain emotional cues.


    So when she finished talking about the Alliance Special Warfare Squad''s intelligence, and Qiu Tu showed neither shock nor urgency in his emotions, she acutely sensed something amiss.


    However, while her intuition told her that Qiu Tu might also know this intelligence, her rationale completely doubted it.


    After all, her intelligence had been hard-won, transmitted at the risk of a spy''s life.


    How did Qiu Tu know?


    Just as she noticed something off...


    Just as her intuition told her that Qiu Tu might also know this intelligence, but her rational mind completely doubted it.


    For her intelligence was hard-earned, conveyed at the risk of a spy''s life.


    How did Qiu Tu know?


    And just then, just then...

 Chapter 618 - 358: Qiu Tu is Too Godlike! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket)

    Late at night. Boundless Heart Sea, Xinjie Territory.


    The azure sky resembled a carefully painted scroll, displaying the night''s deepest and most enchanting landscapes.


    The galaxy stretched across the skyline like a river flowing with light, bisecting the night sky into two halves and showering down a gentle, translucent radiance that draped the "Pioneer Base" in a thin veil of silver.


    Inside a room of the Pioneer Base, Qiu Tu stood by the window, admiring the night scene outside, then he also listened to Larilo talk about the Domain Master''s second ability.


    According to Larilo, once one-third of the Central Hub was refined, the Domain Master would gain a second ability related to the territory: changing the terrain.


    As long as the Domain Master was within their own region, they could expend a certain amount of spiritual power and Cataclysmic Power to alter the terrain.


    For example, changing a hillside into a depression or a marsh into a river channel. It was indeed incredibly powerful.


    After listening to Larilo''s account, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but feel a little surprised.


    He curiously looked at Larilo and asked bluntly, "Your Highness... since you can change the terrain. How then did you get ambushed by Liu Xiongyuan and his men?"


    "Shouldn''t it have been you ambushing them?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu point out the flaw, Larilo''s veins throbbed on her forehead, and she thought about outright ignoring him.


    Just then, suddenly... a needle-point-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal" was presented before her.


    Larilo: ???


    Looking at the tiny "Boundless Divine Crystal," which had hardly any use, Larilo grew even more irritated.


    She was determined to have a proper discussion with Qiu Tu and fight for her rights!


    But... Qiu Tu didn''t indulge her at all. Seeing that Larilo didn''t want it, he reached out to take it back.


    Upon seeing this, Larilo also panicked and quickly said, "No, no, no! I''m saying, isn''t that enough?"


    Filled with indignation, Larilo inwardly cursed Qiu Tu non-stop!


    She swore to herself in secret: her current forbearance was only for the sake of regaining strength!


    Once she returned to the Fourth Order Evil God Realm, she would definitely tie Qiu Tu up and then have him play poker with beautiful women all day long, a hundred times, oh a hundred times!


    She would make him supply the Cataclysmic Power that provided her with the "Life" pathway until he dropped dead from exhaustion!


    Thinking so, Larilo swallowed the needle-point-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal" in one gulp and then said annoyingly, "You think changing the terrain is as easy as willing it, capable of creating a mountain with a mere thought in battle to block attacks!"


    "But in reality, that''s not how it works at all."


    "Changing the terrain requires distraction and entering a state of Infinite Vision. There''s simply no way to do it during combat!"


    "So now you understand why I got ambushed by Liu Xiongyuan and his men, right?"


    Hearing Larilo''s explanation, Qiu Tu nodded seemingly enlightened. He felt he was starting to understand the method of using "change terrain"...


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu first activated "Infinite Vision," and then his entire being reappeared above the entire Xinjie Territory with God''s Perspective.


    The jungle at night resounded with insects and frogs, as if playing a symphony, especially pleasing to the ear.


    Gigantic trees hidden in the darkness, under the faint luminance of the starry sky, appeared both mysterious and immense.


    Looking at every plant and tree of the Xinjie Territory, looking at those streams, those marshes...


    Qiu Tu felt as if he were God himself, as if he could change this entire region with just a simple reach of his hand!


    With that thought, Qiu Tu''s gaze fell on the gently flowing creek below.


    He "stretched out" a finger, lightly tracing beside the stream!


    The next second, a thunderous roar came from the tranquil forest in the distance, and a short, crescent-shaped new channel abruptly appeared alongside the creek that Qiu Tu "saw" before him!


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu reached out again and pinched the original riverbed of the creek!


    The next second, the riverbed was pinched into land, the creek without a forward path followed the new channel Qiu Tu had just drawn and flowed slowly along...


    A single swipe changed the river''s path!


    ''Is this the power of "changing terrain"?''


    Staring at the new channel he had carved out, Qiu Tu felt a bit dazed for a moment.


    Unexpectedly, he felt as if he truly possessed the power of a Deity.


    If this wasn''t the power of a Deity, then what was?


    Thinking so, Qiu Tu also gained some understanding as to why the Evil Gods were so inflated...


    Hmm, he was feeling a bit inflated just refining one-third, let alone the whole thing?


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu also slowly came back to his senses.


    At this moment, Larilo was leaning against the Soul Altar, looking at him in surprise, "How did you do it so quickly?"


    "It hasn''t been long since you refined one-third of the regional center!"


    Qiu Tu said gravely, "Your Highness, you must be muddled by the grief of losing the regional center."


    "You''ve forgotten... Your regional center was stolen by the Whale Shark, right?"


    Larilo: ...


    Larilo realized, Qiu Tu''s tongue was indeed sharp, almost identical to how his younger brother was!


    This morning, when she kissed Qiu Tu''s younger brother...


    Thinking of this, Larilo hastily stopped her own wild thoughts. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That was a stain on her life, and she tried as much as possible not to think of it!


    Meanwhile, while Larilo was busy with her distracted thoughts,


    Suddenly "thud thud thud."


    Someone knocked on the door of Qiu Tu''s room from the outside.


    Qiu Tu turned his head towards the door, where Infinite Vision allowed him to clearly see that the person standing outside was his teammate: South wind.


    Or rather... Tang Feifei.


    In fact, Qiu Tu had discovered South wind''s identity on the first day.

 Chapter 619 - 358 Qiu Tu is too much of a God! (10k words for Monthly Ticket)_2

    Aside from South wind and Qin Shuman, who stepped forward without hesitation to join Qiu Tu on his mission,


    there was also... her undeniable conspicuousness.


    Out of the 23 subordinates, she was the only one who did not display a numerical value of loyalty,


    only she... her head was as bare as can be. Not even a mark of loyalty to be seen.


    If it wasn''t Tang Feifei, who else could it be?


    It''s worth noting that even spies and possessed subordinates like Qin Shuman have loyalty indicators above their heads. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The only one without a loyalty display could only be Qiu Tu''s superior.


    Thinking of this, Qiu Tu put Larilo back into the "Gold-Addicted Wallet," and then called out, "Qing Jin."


    The replacement chosen by Tang Feifei was a burly man with a substantial build.


    After entering Qiu Tu''s room, Tang Feifei saluted and said seriously, "Chief, I have important intelligence to report."


    Upon hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu''s gaze sharpened, and he asked, "What intelligence?"


    With a stern face, Tang Feifei replied seriously, "Just now, the Chen Long Squadron, who were on night duty, accidently discovered some low-level Cataclysmic Creatures in the Xinjie Territory."


    "These Cataclysmic Creatures seem to be searching for something, digging here and there in the forest."


    Shocked by Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu quickly reopened the "Wireless Visibility" to check the current situation in the Primitive Forest.


    It was probably because he was in the air, and the objects on the ground were too small. Plus, just now, Qiu Tu was solely focused on "Changing the Terrain," so he didn''t notice.


    Now, as he zoomed in to check the anomalies in the forest, he spotted the Cataclysmic Creatures¡ªbarely half a meter tall, with 5-7 vertical stripes on their bodies, fish heads, human forms, and steel forks in their hands¡ªdigging around everywhere.


    Qiu Tu observed them closely and thought they looked a bit like Zhou Bing.


    ''Are these the vassals summoned by the Whale Shark?''


    As early as the day before yesterday, Qiu Tu had gathered intelligence from Larilo and knew that Evil Gods and Domain Masters are actually not the same.


    Some Evil Gods are the favored children of the world, naturally nurtured. They are powerful individuals who have always been solitary.


    But there are also Evil Gods and Domain Masters who have their own vassals and many Cataclysmic Creatures under their command.


    And the Whale Shark is one of them...


    ''It seems... the mission just got a lot more difficult today...''


    ''I hope there won''t be any accidents.''


    ...


    A night passed without incident, and the next day came.


    Qiu Tu once again boosted his team''s spirits and briefed them about the appearance of the Zhou Bing before directing all four squads to carry out their missions again.


    Squad one''s mission was still to investigate Evil Gods.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu had previously locked onto the Whale Shark''s location and the route of the Zhou Bing. He led squad one through twists and turns until they reached the Whale Shark''s position.


    The Whale Shark was resting at the time.


    In these two days, it had found 5 Leyline Nodes and successfully infiltrated two of them.


    Based on the 81 Leyline Nodes, he and another Evil God should take around 15 days to completely gain control of the Xinjie Territory.


    But as the Leyline Nodes became harder to find later on, he summoned hundreds of his Zhou Bing to help him search.


    First using the Exploration Relic "Thousand Yard Eyes" to observe the Whale Shark''s condition closely, Qiu Tu then took out the Record Treasure "Flowing Fluorite" to record the Whale Shark''s current situation.


    While Qiu Tu was conducting his inquiry and recording, his team members were dispersed around him on alert duty.


    Among them... Tang Feifei and Qin Shuman always found their gazes involuntarily drifting towards him.


    Of course, the two were not motivated by "affection" but by pure curiosity and wonder...


    This was the third day of the mission, and since day one, Qiu Tu seemed to be on a role, accurately leading everyone to two Evil Gods every day.


    If once was a coincidence, twice could be seen as a coincidence, but this had happened more than a dozen times, and it was difficult to explain by mere coincidence.


    ''Is it because of his special Cataclysmic ability?''


    ''Does he possess a powerful locating Cataclysmic treasure?''


    As they kept watch, Tang Feifei and Qin Shuman couldn''t help but speculate in their minds....


    While squad one was recording the Evil God, squad three was also in the Primitive Forest, collecting plants, soil, water, and minerals from different regions.


    Because their mission was relatively simple, and the team captain was the lively Ding Xiaoliu, the atmosphere in squad three was more relaxed.


    This also gave them more time for idle chat.


    Wu Ma said, "Our team captain really has divine powers. Do you think his ability is related to fortune-telling? How does he always point us to the most suitable collection points and save us from wasted effort?"


    Hearing his words, Shen Hou chirped in with a monkey-like air, "If you ask me, our captain''s ability might be X-Ray Vision. That''s how he can remotely direct us and know which regions have the richest resources."


    Hearing this, Dong Feng popped his head out and added, "But indeed... it''s really comfortable and easy following our captain. I came here to participate in this event with a mindset ready for death, and my colleagues all said it was highly dangerous. Who knew it would be this easy?"


    At this moment, listening to their conversation, Ding Xiaoliu poked his head out and said cheerily, "Now you know the benefits of following Brother Tu, right? I''m telling you, Brother Tu is renowned in the Investigation Bureau for his strong abilities, his defense of his subordinates and for his consideration of his underlings! With him, three promotions in half a year."


    "So guys, work hard this time and strive to catch Brother Tu''s eye. Soaring to great heights won''t be a problem then."

 Chapter 620 - 358 Qiu Tu is Too Godlike! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s boasting, the five members of the team responded with laughs, looking a bit like they were joking, but the seriousness in their eyes showed they took his words to heart....


    So, Team 3''s members collected items while chit-chatting.


    Who knows how much time passed, maybe half an hour, maybe more than an hour.


    Suddenly... rustle, rustle, rustle...


    The sound of leaves rubbing against each other.


    In that instant, the six members of Team 3 became alert!


    They exchanged glances, froze in place, and didn''t dare to move....


    This morning, Qiu Tu had informed them that the Evil God had summoned its Cataclysmic Creatures and they were patrolling the forest, warning them to be careful.


    And now, they had encountered them.


    "Rustle, rustle, rustle... Rustle, rustle, rustle..."


    The sound of leaves grew closer, and the six people nervously reached slowly for the daggers at their waists, looking in the direction of the sound with vigilant movements...


    The next second, a creature with a fish head and a human body named Zhou Bing appeared before the six!


    The Zhou Bing, upon seeing the six glinting daggers, actually showed a human-like expression of terror on its fish head!


    It reflexively turned to run!


    However, in that moment, Ding Xiaoliu, Wu Ma, and Shen Hou had already pounced on it!


    With fierce expressions, they violently stabbed their three daggers into Zhou Bing''s chest!


    Zhou Bing hardly put up any resistance, just gurgled blood and fell to the ground!


    Seeing this, Ding Xiaoliu and the others wiped the sweat from their foreheads and let out a sigh of relief.


    At that moment, however, the other three members on alert started to stumble over their words.


    Dong Feng looked terrified in the direction the Zhou Bing had come from and stammered, "So... so many?"


    Upon hearing Dong Feng''s words, Ding Xiaoliu and the others looked up. Then they saw more than twenty creatures, all carrying steel forks and looking just like the Zhou Bing they had just killed, eyeing them menacingly!


    Looking down at the Zhou Bing lying at their feet, breathless, Ding Xiaoliu and the others:...


    The next second, Ding Xiaoliu shouted, "Run!"


    After saying that, he took the lead and ran toward the perimeter of the forest!


    The other members heard him and quickly followed suit!


    While running, Ding Xiaoliu quickly used the Communication Treasure to call Qiu Tu for help!


    When Qiu Tu received Ding Xiaoliu''s cracking call for help, he was still recording Leyline Nodes.


    After hearing Ding Xiaoliu''s distressed call, Qiu Tu calmly initiated "Infinite Vision" and directly located the position of Ding Xiaoliu and the others.


    After observing the enemy situation around Ding Xiaoliu, Qiu Tu calmly commanded, "Little Liu, don''t panic. Follow my instructions."


    "Turn and run to your left!"


    "After 300 meters, turn right!"


    "After another 100 meters, turn left again!"


    "Do you see a small hill? Crash into it! It''s empty inside, you can hide there!" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Following Qiu Tu''s directions, Ding Xiaoliu and the others wound their way and actually came upon a small mound!


    Seeing the small mound before them, the six members of Team 3 were a bit hesitant.


    But thinking of Qiu Tu''s miraculous methods and his strategic demeanor!


    With gritted teeth and a stomp, they still crashed straight into it!


    The next second, the hill shattered, revealing a cave inside!


    The six were both shocked and delighted, and quickly picked up the rocks to block the hole, leaving just a small gap to peer through!


    And after seeing several groups of Zhou Bing pass by the cave and continue the search further on, the six finally let out a sigh of relief.


    But while exhaling with relief, a huge question arose in their minds: How did Qiu Tu do it?


    Did he have some kind of extraordinary Supernatural Ability or some special Extraordinary Treasure?


    How did he know there was a small hill here, and that there was a cave inside it?


    -------

 Chapter 621 - 359

    Thinking this, after the pursuers left, Wu Ma quietly asked, "How did the captain know there was a cave here?"


    "Could he have been here before?"


    Upon hearing Wu Ma''s words, Shen Hou scratched his head and then said, also somewhat puzzled, "I''m not sure. It feels quite magical to me."


    After speaking, he seemed to be stunned for a moment, then whispered, "By the way... during our escape, did any of you hear a ''rumbling'' sound?"


    "''Rumbling'' sound?"


    When Shen Hou mentioned this, the few looked at each other, and finally, Ding Xiaoliu, with a stern face, said, "I think I faintly heard something. But I was so rushed while fleeing, I thought I had misheard."


    Hearing him say this, another team member from the Investigation Bureau named Dong Feng, as if suddenly thinking of something, abruptly turned his head to look at the cave wall.


    A First-order Catastropher already possesses slight night vision ability, so although the cave was dimly lit, he could still vaguely make out some things.


    He exclaimed, "Eh," then with some amazement, pressed against the cave wall, gently feeling around with his hand.


    After a moment, he lowered his voice and said, "Look quickly..."


    "The soil in this cave is all damp. And there are even some freshly broken, tender roots mixed in."


    Hearing Dong Feng''s words, the other five Dare-to-Die Team members hastily checked as well.


    They soon discovered similar conditions in other areas of the cave.


    Team 3 specifically worked with soil, moisture, and plant collection. They had also learned quite a bit of specialized knowledge in the past few days.


    They knew better than anyone what this phenomenon meant.


    ''This cave... has been newly dug.''


    ''And... judging by the roots still oozing sap, it couldn''t have been more than ten or fifteen minutes.''


    Thinking this, the six of them couldn''t help but exchange looks, seeing the astonishment in each other''s eyes.


    Because, compared to the explanation that Qiu Tu had mysteriously dug a cave next to them just minutes before; it was obviously more plausible that after discovering they had been caught by the enemy, he had dug out a cave thousands of meters away, helping them to hide...


    Bullshit! S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Both explanations were incredibly exaggerated, weren''t they!


    What Tier Disaster Changer was their captain exactly? And what was his Cataclysmic ability?


    It felt... as powerful as a deity?


    Thinking this, the eyes of the six couldn''t help but go madly wild. The cave also became incredibly silent for a time.


    After a moment, it was Ding Xiaoliu who spoke up.


    He swept a serious gaze over the five people present and then said, "Regardless of what everyone is thinking or guessing,"


    "I want to remind everyone that a Cataclysmic ability is a person''s biggest secret. If it is known by others, one could become the target of an attack."


    "So, there are things you should think twice about discussing, and who you can discuss them with, I hope everyone will carefully consider."


    As he finished speaking, another member from the Investigation Bureau, Dong Feng, also chimed in,


    "Little Liu is right, Brother Tu has just saved our lives!"


    "Don''t bite the hand that feeds us."


    Having said this, he paused for a moment and continued, "Moreover... Brother Tu is one of the youngest high-ranking individuals in Xinjie City. He was born and raised in the underlayers of Xinjie City, one of our own."


    "He is under the care of big shots from the Sanctuary, protected by the Bureau Chief, closely collaborates with the military and the Security Department, and has a large number of investigators who follow him."


    "Such a potential stock with excellent performance, you don''t want to lose the watermelon to pick up the sesame seeds."


    Dong Feng and Little Liu meant the same thing, fearing that someone upon their return might leak Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic abilities to the military or to their own superiors. Thus, they were issuing a precaution.


    What Dong Feng was saying was more direct: instead of currying favor with your own superiors by leaking Qiu Tu''s information, you might as well just swear allegiance to Qiu Tu directly. Perhaps the prospects could be better.


    When they heard the two of them speak, the other four members exchanged glances, and their expressions slowly changed from surprise to determination.


    Meanwhile, a series of increased loyalty prompts also floated by on Qiu Tu''s side.


    Except for Ding Xiaoliu, whose loyalty had long reached over 80 and only rose by 1 point, the other five members all increased by 2 to 7 points of loyalty¡­


    Seeing this, a hint of a smile flashed in the depths of Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    There were two main goals for Qiu Tu in willing to lead the Dare-to-Die Team to investigate amidst such great danger.


    The first was the Refining Area Center. The second was to enroll this Dare-to-Die Team under his command.


    As his status rose higher and higher, he needed a group of Disaster Changers with decent abilities and to cultivate his own confidants in other departments.


    And this batch of new Disaster Changers without any backing, who would be promoted upon their return, became his first choice.


    With the merit from investigating "Boundless Heart Sea" and the strength of the Disaster Changers, this batch would almost 100% become Deputy Staff Chiefs, Staff Chiefs, or even Deputy Division Chiefs within the next six months.


    This would be the first layer of mid-level power Qiu Tu would harvest!


    Thus, during these seven days, showing them his strength, and then saving them from fire and water when they were abandoned by Xinjie City, continuously boosting their favorability, was Qiu Tu''s plan!


    As for... whether this would expose his identity as a Domain Master...


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but use Infinite Vision to take a glance at Tang Feifei and Qin Shuman, who were sneakily observing him.

 Chapter 622 - 359_2

    Because she didn''t know Qiu Tu was secretly watching them, Qiu Tu clearly caught the surprise and confusion in their eyes.


    Clearly, the sharp pair had already guessed what Qiu Tu had just done, based on the voices over the communication and the events of the past few days...


    But they obviously didn''t understand what it really meant, nor did they understand how Qiu Tu had managed to do it...


    After all, even the Eighth Sanctuary didn''t know what the "Central Hub" was, let alone how to become a Domain Master, so it was impossible for them to know the abilities one could have after Refining the "Central Hub"...


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu observed Squad 3 again, ensuring there were no problems on their end before slowly retracting his gaze and returning to his busy workload.


    That day was challenging because the Evil God Whale Shark had summoned several hundred Zhou Bing. These hundreds of Zhou Bing had been active all around the Primitive Forest, making the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission much harder.


    Not only did they encounter Zhou Bing multiple times, but several conflicts also arose.


    Luckily, under Qiu Tu''s command, apart from two team members who suffered minor injuries, most of the team retreated safely.


    This significantly elevated Qiu Tu''s prestige among the Dare-to-Die Team members.


    Consequently, the Loyalty of these Dare-to-Die Team members had generally broken through 55, and by the end of the mission, breaking through 70 seemed very likely.


    By then, even if the Dare-to-Die Team disbanded, Qiu Tu could continue to command them and bring them under his fold...


    ...


    "In military discipline, the relationship between subordinates and superiors is one of total dependence in life and death. In a state of war, every command from a superior decides the life or death of a subordinate."


    "Therefore, subordinates can easily become the staunch, die-hard followers of their superiors."


    "This is actually one of the reasons why the military often becomes unwieldy...."


    Nightfall. The galaxy splashed brilliantly across the Skyline, scattering soft and clear radiance as though bidding the Great Emperor goodnight.


    Amid this silvery light, inside Qiu Tu''s bedroom, Qin Shuman with Mao Tu''s face stood beside Qiu Tu, whispering to him.


    She obviously noticed Qiu Tu''s intentions over these days, so she was hinting and reminding Qiu Tu.


    With his hands behind his back, Qiu Tu looked out at the dark Primitive Forest outside the base, then spoke with a smile, "The local and the Central Hub are always in an invisible opposition to each other."


    "The Central Hub worries that the locals are united, becoming a law unto themselves, hard to control, governing regional territories, answering summons but not proclamations, and even assuming a usurping mantle."


    "Yet it also fears that the locals will be as loose as sand, lacking fighting strength and unable to confront external enemies."


    "There is no absolute right way to do this. It''s all about balance."


    Qiu Tu''s answer was simple. The Central Hub and the locals were naturally in an invisible opposition.


    No matter what he did, there were problems, but there could also be no problems¡ªit all depended on interpretation.


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Qin Shuman''s expression changed.


    After a moment, she sighed softly and then rubbed her temples, saying, "You''ve changed so much recently, so much that I hardly recognize you."


    She looked at Qiu Tu and then said earnestly, "Like these past two days. You seem to have used some methods I''ve never seen, or even dared to imagine."


    "Those methods, they are like miracles."


    "What level of Cataclysmic are you now? Third Order? Third-Order Peak?"


    "Surely... you haven''t secretly reached Fourth Order, have you?"


    As she spoke, Qin Shuman''s eyes were filled with curiosity.


    While the two of them were exchanging these thoughts, a "knock knock knock" sounded on the door.


    Qiu Tu said, "Come in."


    The next second, the door opened, and South Wind, in the form of Tang Feifei, entered the room.


    Seeing Qiu Tu and Mao Tu (Qin Shuman) standing shoulder to shoulder in an intimate manner, she furrowed her brows slightly before saying, "Sir, I have important intelligence to report to you."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu turned around, looked at her intently, and then approached.


    As Qiu Tu came closer, Tang Feifei also approached, leaned into Qiu Tu''s ear, and whispered, "Sir, Squad 2 on duty just sent a message. There''s activity in the forest."


    "It seems like Zhou Bing are gathering in the forest, but their exact purpose is unknown."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, a chill went through Qiu Tu''s heart.


    He activated Infinite Vision and immediately noticed that on the periphery of the forest, two to three hundred Zhou Bing were assembling.


    A towering man, his body a deep blue and burly like a fortress, stood in front of them with an iron trident, a fierce expression on his face as he listened to their reports.


    Although he couldn''t understand what they were saying, the agitated expressions of the Zhou Bing and the increasingly fiery eyes of the man suggested... they were complaining. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s brows knitted slightly, and he had an ominous premonition....


    Sure enough, a flash of white light appeared before him the next second, bringing up a prompt.


    "Crisis Intuition triggered! Generating Crisis Warning!"


    "Due to the reports of the Zhou Bing, the Evil God Whale Shark has discovered the presence of you and the Dare-to-Die Team members!"


    "Upon learning that a human squad is exploring the Xinjie Territory, gathering information, he is beside himself with anger. He believes you are disregarding his warnings and provoking his dignity!"


    "Therefore, he plans to personally lead the Zhou Bing in encircling and capturing you!"


    "Please, before you become a Domain Master, ensure your whereabouts and safety are secure, and do not let him discover your tracks."


    "Otherwise, you wouldn''t want to know what a self-proclaimed provoked Evil God will do to you...."


    Seeing the Crisis Warning before him, Qiu Tu kept a calm facade, but inwardly he couldn''t help but take a deep breath.

 Chapter 623 - 359_3

    Indeed... the worst possibility had occurred.


    Qiu Tu''s mission this time did indeed put them face to face with the Evil God.


    This could be said to be the most dangerous development in the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission.


    It meant that in the next three days, Qiu Tu and his team must gather resources and intelligence while being pursued by the Evil God, all the while ensuring their safety!


    However, those concerns were for later.


    For now, the first order of business was... they had to shake off the pursuit of the Evil God leading hundreds of Cataclysmic Creatures!


    With this in mind, Qiu Tu''s gaze hardened, and then he said to Tang Feifei, "Gather everyone immediately!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s command, Tang Feifei was visibly stunned.


    -------------


    While he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then unfastened the belt around her waist.


    In the next second, her bathrobe slipped off, revealing a figure before Qiu Tu as delicately crafted as white jade.


    Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But he was, after all, a proper man. And he even had to read this philosophy book tonight!


    So, he looked down at the "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then continued reading!


    "Fuck ''Existence,''" he thought to himself, the crudeness of the thought insulting to philosophy, as he leaped off the bed and, amid Fang Tangtang''s exclamation, scooped her up and pressed her down on the bed...


    Blue Moon''s cheeks turned crimson as it pulled in the clouds to hide its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to truly embrace the role of the girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu saw her furrow her brow several times, yesterday''s "injury" was obviously not fully healed, but she still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized just how soft and comfortable the Facial Cleanser for everyday folks could be...


    "Facial Cleanser really is best when used by oneself!" he thought.


    With that in mind, Qiu Tu generously imparted all his knowledge to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her...


    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he did indeed have a quota for killing people.


    She didn''t quite understand that feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei onto the ground, yanked off her bath towel, and loomed over her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never encountered together...


    The utterly different kind of pleasure nearly made her want to use her shoulder to push against Qiu Tu''s mouth, trying to call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu held her firmly in front, one hand pressing down on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude made it impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially when... each time she was about to break down, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and whisper lowly, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break our agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, being the competitive person she was, she couldn''t accept being "hung out to dry" one-sidedly!


    She wanted to revolt so many times!


    But... she was someone who kept her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself over and over again for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu, for that entire day and night, she had neither initiated contact nor resisted him...


    She just silently exerted herself!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had indeed applied Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he tightly entangled with Tang Feifei, barely giving her a chance to rest!


    Thus, they struggled until late into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, all the rooms in that 200 square meter resting area had already been marked by their battle...


    As he was drifting off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If it weren''t for his promotion to a Cataclysmic, which greatly strengthened his body, plus him forbidding Tang Feifei from taking control...


    He reckoned... after this encounter, his back was ready to retire...


    [Yin Caimei''s case closed in 4 and a half days]


    [Danger in the dark in 1 and a half days]


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of the morning sun,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt a soreness in his arm and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu sucked in a breath of cold air, then came to his senses amidst the aching, checked his arm, and only then belatedly remembered the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking of his hard work the day before, of how he''d buried himself in it, and thinking of Tang Feifei, who had nearly been worn to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back might not be usable in the future.


    With this thought, he moved his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, I might as well light one for Yue Kua too; it''s probably done for...''


    Mourning the intensity of the battle from the previous day, Qiu Tu reflexively reached towards his side, then realized that it was already empty, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine... Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Though he knew well that the two of them were merely in a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Isn''t there some credit for hard work?''


    ''That''s a bit too quick to go cold!''


    Just as he thought this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei came in barefoot, bare-legged, bare-bodied, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her supple body seemed charged with an endless explosive force and resilience.


    With every step, she conveyed an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily dashing through the jungle, each step filled with power and rhythm.

 Chapter 624 - 360: Mission Failed? (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Ticket!)

    "At this point," Qiu Tu paused, then sharply surveyed all the members of the Dare-to-Die Team in front of him.


    Sweat and dirt mingled on their faces. Possibly because they were exhausted from a day''s work and then roused in the middle of the night, their expressions were somewhat weary.


    Yet even so, their eyes were still full of determination and trust in themselves.


    Qiu Tu imperceptibly nodded, then began to arrange, "In the coming days, to avoid having too many of us and exposing our tracks, and to avoid being wiped out in one fell swoop, our four squads will operate separately and return to the real world separately."


    At this, Qiu Tu looked towards the second squad and said,


    "Second Squad, your Mission is to collect information on the distribution of Cataclysmic Creatures in the Xinjie Territory. There is a lesser presence of Cataclysmic Creatures in the Xinjie Territory, and over these three days, you should have almost completed this intelligence task."


    "Behind me, on the east side of this hill at the foot of the mountain, there is a three-meter-deep pit."


    "You will hide there to rest shortly."


    "We will erase your traces after you have hidden."


    "Tomorrow morning, our first squad will act to draw the attention of the Zhou Bing and the Evil Gods. Once we have their attention, I will send you a signal."


    "Once you receive my signal, begin your tasks immediately."


    "After finishing the final tasks, you all should take all the data and intelligence tomorrow, deactivate the ''Skull Talisman,'' and return to the real world."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the team captain of Squad 2, Chen Feng, opened his mouth as if to say something,


    But Qiu Tu immediately raised his hand to interrupt him, sternly saying, "Follow orders!"


    "Yes!" Hearing this from Qiu Tu, Squad 2 saluted in unison.


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then said, "Chen Feng, as the team captain, you''ll be the last one to return to the real world."


    "Before returning, I need you to set a fire around here to draw the attention of the Zhou Bing and the Evil Gods."


    "Yes!" Chen Feng replied.


    Seeing Squad 2 accept the orders, Qiu Tu looked towards the third squad and said, "Third Squad, you too should have mostly completed your tasks over the past few days."


    "Tomorrow, while our first squad draws the enemy''s attention, you can''t sit idle; you must hurry to complete your work."


    "You have one more day than Squad 2. The day after tomorrow is your final deadline."


    "At that time, no matter how much you''ve completed, you all should set a fire to draw the enemy''s attention and then deactivate the Skull Talisman and return to the real world!"


    With the example of Squad 2 leading the way, Squad 3 did not argue, but silently saluted and acknowledged. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As for Squad 4, Qiu Tu''s arrangements were similar.


    The only difference was that Squad 4 had to coordinate with Qiu Tu''s first squad on the first two days to distract the enemy forces, creating time and space for Squads 2 and 3.


    Afterwards, they would return on the sixth day.


    Although the Mission was heavy and very dangerous, Qiu Tu''s first squad, which he led, had taken on even more dangerous and arduous tasks, so no complaints were voiced.


    Just like that, all plans were set.


    Qiu Tu commenced directing the four squads to move and hide.


    In the dark forest, the night fell like thick ink, engulfing the entire forest into the endless darkness.


    Trees towered into the clouds, their branches densely intertwined as if nature had woven a giant net that completely blocked the moonlight and starlight, leaving only mottled shadows swaying on the ground, adding a sense of eeriness and unrest.


    The air was filled with the moist scent of mud and rotting leaves, occasionally mixed with the distant, deep roars of the Zhou Bing, bringing a chill to the spine.


    In this dangerous forest, the four squads moved silently like ghosts in the night.


    Soon, three squads had hidden in the deep pits that Qiu Tu had dug out using "Infinite Vision" + "Terrain Reconstruction".


    Squad 1 then erased all traces before moving to the final hiding spot.


    Qiu Tu was the last to enter the hiding spot. After cleaning up the tracks outside and faking other tracks forward, Qiu Tu entered the hiding spot and kept "Infinite Vision" on, observing the Evil God Whale Shark and the hundreds of Zhou Bing searching.


    It might have been an overestimation of the Whale Shark and Zhou Bing''s detection abilities, or perhaps the four squads were indeed well-hidden, but either way, the searches of the Whale Shark and Zhou Bing were messy and disorganized.


    "Tonight should be trouble-free...."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu breathed a sigh of relief, then secretly absorbed a small piece of "Boundless Divine Crystal" to replenish his own energy, while continuing to covertly refine the "Central Hub."


    According to his estimation, the "Central Hub" should be refined to two-thirds by tomorrow night. By then, he would possess the abilities of a third Domain Master.


    According to Larilo''s explanation, once the Central Hub was refined by one-third, the Domain Master would obtain the third ability related to the region: Infinite Teleportation.


    As long as the Domain Master was within his own region, he could instantly teleport to any location within that region.


    Moreover, there was no energy consumption.


    Honestly, upon learning of this ability, Qiu Tu had been truly shocked.


    It wasn''t that the ability was particularly strong, but he couldn''t understand why, with this ability, Larilo had still been successfully ambushed by Liu Xiongyuan and others.


    Couldn''t she have just teleported away to escape?

 Chapter 625 - 360: Mission Failed? (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ```


    As a result... Larilo almost rolled her eyes skyward, responding only with one sentence to Qiu Tu, "Who told you I didn''t use teleportation? If I hadn''t, how would my main body have been blown up?"


    After hearing Larilo''s explanation, Qiu Tu''s expression showed understanding, but he was internally certain of one thing: Larilo was indeed weak; if her sister had been ambushed, she probably would have counterattacked Liu Xiongyuan and the others long ago.


    Nevertheless, as long as Qiu Tu could refine two-thirds of the Refining Area Center and unlock "Infinite Teleportation," his Survival ability would be maxed out.


    Even facing an Evil God, as long as he was slightly cautious, he could ensure his complete safety!


    The rest depended on whether each squad could complete the mission he had assigned and ensure the operation''s successful conclusion¡ªfollowed by a promotion and a salary raise...


    It should be noted that the Dare-to-Die Team came to the Boundless Heart Sea on a mission, not to kill time.


    If the time came, and they hadn''t completed the tasks set by the Three Giants, the operation would still be deemed a failure.


    Other members of the Dare-to-Die Team might get a promotion for their hard work, but it was absolutely impossible for someone at Qiu Tu''s level to be exceptionally promoted for hard labor...


    ...


    A night passed without words.


    On the second day, the fourth day of the Dare-to-Die Team executing their mission,


    Following the original plan, Qiu Tu''s Squad 1 and Squad 4 began to move separately in the forest.


    For a while, Squad 1 would make some noise, drawing Zhou Bing''s pursuit, and then Squad 4 would create noises, causing Zhou Bing to hesitate, doubt, and divide their forces.


    After leading all Zhou Bing away, Squads 2 and 3 began to work frantically.


    Soon, a day passed. Squad 2 successfully completed the mission.


    After igniting a bunch of dead trees on the perimeter of the forest with a fire, Squad 2 removed the "Skull Talisman" and headed back to the real world first with the information and data!


    It''s winter in Xinjie City in the real world, but... the Xinjie Region within the Boundless Heart Sea still feels like spring and summer, so although the fire was significant, it didn''t cause much harm.


    Its sole purpose was to draw most of the Zhou Bing there.


    Letting Squads 1 and 4, under Qiu Tu''s command, successfully evade their pursuers and hide once more.


    The fifth day.


    Qiu Tu''s Squad 1 and Squad 4 continued to lure the enemy, and Squad 3 kept working.


    This time, the enemy had clearly become wiser.


    They might have guessed that Qiu Tu had multiple squads, so they simply divided their forces, engaging both Squad 1 and Squad 4 in encirclement.


    Even the Whale Shark joined in.


    This made the movement of Squad 1 and Squad 4 extremely difficult.


    Qiu Tu''s "Crisis Intuition" began to blink wildly, almost like dancing on a tightrope.


    In the end, he had no choice but to change the plan temporarily, let Squad 4 hide, and only commanded Squad 1 to keep leading Zhou Bing and the Whale Shark in circles.


    But the Whale Shark, after all, was an Evil God, and although it didn''t pursue them all that seriously, its occasional attacks still left two members of Squad 1 seriously injured and nearly immobile.


    After once again narrowly escaping the encirclement of Zhou Bing and allowing Squad 3 to set another fire to divert the enemy''s vision,


    Squad 1 couldn''t hold on any longer and took refuge in a pit that Qiu Tu had just dug, starting their recuperation...


    Seeing the wounded and the tired faces around him, Qiu Tu''s expression was stern.


    He had still underestimated the terror of a Fourth-Order Evil God.


    The Whale Shark wasn''t even trying hard; it was as if it was merely toying with them like a cat would with a mouse, and they had almost no power to fight back.


    At the moment, among the Dare-to-Die Team members, only Tang Feifei was still in relatively good condition.


    In fact... there were even a few times when Qiu Tu felt like Tang Feifei seemed to want to exchange a couple of blows with the Whale Shark.


    However, the others couldn''t manage. Squad 1 had two seriously injured members, Squad 4 had one seriously injured, and three slightly injured members.


    "We can''t keep going like this..."


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu activated "Infinite Vision" and then checked on Squad 3''s situation.


    After confirming that Squad 3 had entirely left,


    Qiu Tu hesitated momentarily, then addressed the present members of Squad 1 and the hiding Squad 4, "Everyone, I am Qiu Tu."


    "Here, I wish to announce something."


    "Currently, the Xinjie Region in the Boundless Heart Sea is almost controlled by the Evil God Whale Shark, and he has even summoned hundreds of his Zhou Bing Believers to encircle us, with multiple members of Squad 1 and Squad 4 already injured, some lightly, some severely..." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I believe the danger of this operation has far exceeded expectations."


    "Continuing would only increase casualties needlessly and make it difficult to complete the mission."


    "Therefore, I have decided that all members of Squad 4, and all members of Squad 1 except for myself, with all the current information and clues, will return to reality!"


    "I will stay behind, continue monitoring the movements of the Evil God, and watch for an opportunity to complete the mission."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei, Qin Shuman, and the injured members couldn''t help but look up at Qiu Tu.


    And through the Communication Treasure, objections also came from Squad 4.


    But Qiu Tu spoke sternly, "This is an order!"


    With military units, any justification is useless, the most effective thing is the word "order."


    So, when the highly respected Qiu Tu issued the order, even if reluctantly and worried for Qiu Tu, the few members still accepted the command.


    Seeing the others accepting the command, Qiu Tu''s expression softened slightly.


    He earnestly said, "Brothers, no matter how powerful the Evil God is, no matter how numerous his followers are. You must believe that victory will ultimately be ours."


    "Now, your mission is complete, leave the rest to me!"


    ```

 Chapter 626 - 360: Mission Failed? (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Just like that, under Qiu Tu''s encouragement and command, all members of Team 4, as well as a few members of Team 1, had removed the "Skull Talisman" and returned to the real world.


    Soon, only Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei, and Qin Shuman were left in the entire Xinjie Territory.


    Actually, these past couple of days, Tang Feifei and Qin Shuman had begun to sense each other''s presence.


    Qin Shuman had known early on that Tang Feifei had arrived, while Tang Feifei had figured it out via analysis...


    After all... even though Qiu Tu was a flirt, he... didn''t just go after anyone he saw.


    It was inexplicable that Qiu Tu had brought Mao Tu with him and was so intimately close to her. There was no way Tang Feifei could overlook this without a thought.


    Previously, everyone had been busy, so they had all pretended not to know about each other''s presence.


    As a result, now... because Qiu Tu wanted everyone to leave, both of them were abruptly "forced" into the open.


    Thus, an awkward atmosphere promptly filled the air...


    Perhaps because she had already handed over the life-saving "Spirit Escape Pendant" in advance, Qin Shuman wasn''t very worried about Qiu Tu''s reassurances.


    So, when she saw Tang Feifei looking sharply over, she smiled at Qiu Tu and said, "Minister Qiu, it seems... someone has something to say to you~~"


    "Take care, I''m leaving first."


    After speaking, she waved at the two of them and sat down on the ground.


    A few seconds later, her body turned into specks of starlight and vanished from the spot, leaving no trace behind.


    Clearly, she had returned to the real world...


    When Qin Shuman had left, only Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu remained at the bottom of the deep pit.


    Tang Feifei stopped pretending, and her form gradually shifted and shrank, quickly reverting to her original appearance.


    Back in her own form, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu and said, "You don''t seem surprised?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "I had guessed already."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei let out a small sigh. She felt a sense of defeat.


    She, who had always been strong-willed, could only feel powerless in the face of Qiu Tu.


    It seemed... this was also the reason she found herself falling deeper and deeper.


    Even... to the extent of risking her own life, disguising as a member of the Dare-to-Die Team, just to be able to save Qiu Tu on a whim.


    Thinking this way, she looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "Come back with me."


    "This mission has already failed."


    "The Whale Shark clearly regards the Xinjie District as his own territory; if you continue staying here, you''ll only completely enrage him."


    "You can neither defeat him nor escape from him..."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei added, "So, come back with me..."


    ...


    Half an hour later. In the real world, in the Bureau Chief''s office of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Tang Feifei woke up on the bed, and Su Xiaowan, who had been keeping watch beside her, hurried forward, saying a bit anxiously, "Bureau Chief, you''re finally awake." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I was so worried!"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tang Feifei slowly opened her eyes. She looked coolly at Su Xiaowan and then asked, "What''s happened? What''s going on?"


    Speaking in a quiet voice, Su Xiaowan reported, "From last night till now, a total of 23 members of the Dare-to-Die Team have returned from the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Many of them are injured and in bad condition."


    "There are rumors in the Bureau that they failed their mission, were too afraid to die, and ran back in disgrace."


    "But that''s not the most important thing. The most important thing is that Minister Qiu Tu has yet to wake up."


    "Of the 24 members of the Dare-to-Die Team, he is the only one still in the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Rumors are flying high and low in the Investigation Bureau. Some people are spreading that Minister Qiu... died in the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    --------


    Chapter, 10,000 words, haha! Asking for Monthly Tickets!


    ------


    When Qin Shuman had left, only Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu remained at the bottom of the deep pit.


    Tang Feifei stopped pretending, and her form gradually shifted and shrank, quickly reverting to her original appearance.


    Back in her own form, Tang Feifei looked at Qiu Tu and said, "You don''t seem surprised?"


    Qiu Tu smiled, "I had guessed already."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei let out a small sigh. She felt a sense of defeat.


    She, who had always been strong-willed, could only feel powerless in the face of Qiu Tu.


    It seemed... this was also the reason she found herself falling deeper and deeper.


    Even... to the extent of risking her own life, disguising as a member of the Dare-to-Die Team, just to be able to save Qiu Tu on a whim.


    Thinking this way, she looked at Qiu Tu and then said, "Come back with me."


    "This mission has already failed."


    "The Whale Shark clearly regards the Xinjie District as his own territory; if you continue staying here, you''ll only completely enrage him."


    "You can neither defeat him nor escape from him..."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei added, "So, come back with me..."


    ...


    Half an hour later. In the real world, in the Bureau Chief''s office of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Tang Feifei woke up on the bed, and Su Xiaowan, who had been keeping watch beside her, hurried forward, saying a bit anxiously, "Bureau Chief, you''re finally awake."


    "I was so worried!"


    Hearing Su Xiaowan''s words, Tang Feifei slowly opened her eyes. She looked coolly at Su Xiaowan and then asked, "What''s happened? What''s going on?"


    Speaking in a quiet voice, Su Xiaowan reported, "From last night till now, a total of 23 members of the Dare-to-Die Team have returned from the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Many of them are injured and in bad condition."


    "There are rumors in the Bureau that they failed their mission, were too afraid to die, and ran back in disgrace."


    "But that''s not the most important thing. The most important thing is that Minister Qiu Tu has yet to wake up."


    "Of the 24 members of the Dare-to-Die Team, he is the only one still in the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."


    "Rumors are flying high and low in the Investigation Bureau. Some influential people are spreading that Minister Qiu... died in the ''Boundless Heart Sea''."

 Chapter 627 - 361

    Upon hearing Xiaowan''s words, Tang Feifei''s expression showed little change.


    She got up calmly, started getting dressed, and asked, "Is someone deliberately fueling the fire?"


    Such a topic was clearly beyond Xiaowan''s capability.


    She hesitated for a moment, then struggled to use her simple mind and replied stumblingly, "I don''t think so?"


    She recalled for a moment, then said, "Because of the Dare-to-Die Team''s confidentiality clause. They are only accountable to Minister Qiu and you."


    "When neither of you is around, they cannot disclose any information to anyone."


    "Actually, Director Yu, Minister Lin, and Minister Shi have all tried to contact them, but were shut out."


    "Now, apart from you, the Dare-to-Die Team refuses to see anyone else, only allowing the medical department to send doctors to help the wounded."


    "So, the bureau is completely in the dark about what exactly has happened to the Dare-to-Die Team."


    "Everyone just knows that 24 members of the Dare-to-Die Team, 23 have come back in batches, and most of them are wounded, some even severely, only Minister Qiu hasn''t returned."


    "So... it''s speculated that maybe something happened to Minister Qiu?"


    Hearing Xiaowan''s words, Tang Feifei thought for a moment and agreed with Xiaowan''s analysis.


    Until everything settles, even if someone wanted to harm Qiu Tu, they wouldn''t come forward.


    The current rumors are probably because the Dare-to-Die Team returned severely injured, and the mission was abruptly halted, yet Qiu Tu hasn''t returned.


    These are minor issues...


    ¡ªAs long as Qiu Tu can safely return.


    Thinking so... Tang Feifei couldn''t help but recall what Qiu Tu had shown her in the "Boundless Heart Sea" and the business they had discussed...


    Her gaze acquired a hint of playfulness: even... this minor issue might help with her business with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei also stepped towards the doorway of the lounge and then said, "Call the senior executives and tell them to meet in the conference room."


    "Also, have the Dare-to-Die Team send four representatives, two each from the military and the Investigation Bureau, to report on their work."


    "Yes!" Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Xiaowan quickly saluted and then began to make arrangements.


    After a short while, in the senior executive conference room, Tang Feifei, Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin, Lin Ting, Guan Weihua seriously listened to the reports from four members of the Dare-to-Die Team.


    When they heard about the Fourth-Order Evil God Whale Shark, not only penetrating the Xinjie Territory but also gathering hundreds of Cataclysmic Creatures to search for Leyline Nodes and drive out humans, the executives were shocked.


    They knew the situation in Xinjie Territory was deteriorating, but they hadn''t realized it had worsened to this extent.


    This indicated that control of the Xinjie Territory had once again been thoroughly seized by the Evil God. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, they also couldn''t help but ask about the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission and Qiu Tu''s situation.


    Upon hearing that the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission was nearly completed, but due to the drastic worsening of the situation Qiu Tu asked them to return to the real world in advance while he stayed behind to finish the final tasks, the expressions of the senior executives became somewhat complex.


    To be honest... although they held some grudges against Qiu Tu, they somewhat admired the spirit of a high-ranking individual like Qiu Tu, who, for the sake of the mission, still risked his life.


    After all, if they put themselves in his shoes, they admitted they couldn''t do that...


    So, after the Dare-to-Die Team members left, Guan Weihua was the first to sigh and said, "Actually... I''ve always had some complaints about Minister Qiu. But... now I see him in a new light."


    "To still not forget the mission in such times and penetrate deep into enemy territory, he truly deserves to be learned from by everyone in the Investigation Bureau."


    Hearing his words, the other executives, who also felt the impact, except Tang Feifei, all showed subtle changes in expression.


    They looked at each other, and finally, Shi Youxin was the first to speak.


    He chuckled and said, "Director Guan, I must disagree with you."


    "Although Minister Qiu is indeed brave and diligent... it''s important to know that this operation was not carried out by him alone, but with the support of the Investigation Bureau, Xinjie City, and even the Sanctuary."


    "He, being on the front lines, only needs to focus on carrying out the mission, but we... those of us situated in the rear have a lot of things to consider."


    "What equipment to provide, how to execute plans, whether to continue the mission, whether to send reinforcements, are all things we need to think about."


    "If a battle merits 100 points of credit, then the front-line soldiers should at most account for only 20%."


    Hearing his words, the conference room fell silent...


    Due to different systems, there had always been some discord between the management sequence and action sequence officers in the Investigation Bureau.


    And the allocation of credit was an even more sensitive topic.


    Thus, his words momentarily made the atmosphere in the office a bit tense.


    Despite both being from the Yan Faction, the expressions on Guan Weihua and Lin Ting''s faces were also vaguely restless.


    Seeing this scene, Tang Feifei''s lips curled into a slight smile but immediately retracted it.


    She didn''t continue to stir things up under these circumstances but rather rapped on the table, then, according to the plan she had with Qiu Tu, began to set things up.


    After the senior executives looked towards her, Tang Feifei calmly surveyed them and then slowly began, "You''ve all heard the report from the Dare-to-Die Team just now."


    "Right now, Minister Qiu is deep in danger."


    "I think our Investigation Bureau cannot stand idly by but should provide reinforcements or assistance."

 Chapter 628 - 361

    "So... does anyone want to volunteer to help Minister Qiu?"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, the few high-level executives present exchanged glances and then began playing dead.


    Even Guan Weihua, who had just praised Qiu Tu, remained motionless, eyes on his nose, and nose on his heart¡ªadmiration is one thing, but emulating Qiu Tu was beyond him.


    Seeing that no one responded, Tang Feifei did not persist. Instead, she pondered for a moment and spoke again, "Since no one wants to send reinforcements, let''s discuss another matter."


    "The mission of the Dare-to-Die Team is basically completed. Although it fell short of expectations, the objective has been achieved."


    "Xinjie City is not suitable for development right now."


    "So... can we just go ahead and promote Deputy Director Qiu Tu based on the completion of the mission?"


    At Tang Feifei''s words, the executives were taken aback.


    In truth, if taken seriously, the mission of the Dare-to-Die Team could indeed be considered complete: The Three Giants had dispatched the team to figure out whether the Xinjie Territory was suitable for development or not.


    Now that they had proven it unsuitable, it made sense¡ªeven if they hadn''t fully understood the leyline nodes, the distribution of cataclysmic creature territories, cataclysmic materials, and mineral deposits¡ªsince it was unsuitable for development, knowing everything else would be moot.


    But... the thing was, Qiu Tu didn''t exactly have a good relationship with those present. In fact, many harbored deep grudges against him.


    Even if the Dare-to-Die Team had completed its mission, they did not want to let Qiu Tu get promoted so easily.


    Now that the mission wasn''t truly finished, how could they possibly agree to it?


    Moreover, the hierarchy in government was pyramid-shaped; the higher you went, the fewer the spots available. If Qiu Tu moved up, they''d be stuck.


    So... thinking of this, Shi Youxin, Lin Ting, and even Guan Weihua all promptly expressed their opposition.


    Originally, they thought that by voicing their objections, they would undoubtedly incur Tang Feifei''s displeasure or retaliation.


    The two sides would engage in verbal sparring for a few rounds but, unexpectedly, something miraculous happened. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After the three opposed her, Tang Feifei simply nodded her head in agreement.


    Then Tang Feifei, as if nothing had happened, dismissed the meeting and took all sorts of audio-visual materials and intelligence gathered by the Dare-to-Die Team back to the Bureau Chief''s office.


    This abrupt end to the meeting left the high-level executives'' CPUs overheated.


    They looked at one another, clueless about what Tang Feifei was plotting...


    ...


    The night passed without incident.


    Day and night in the Boundless Heart Sea were the opposite of those in the real world.


    It was in the morning of the Boundless Heart Sea that Qiu Tu had team 1 and 4 return.


    They arrived back in the real world at around 20:00 to 21:00.


    At this time, there weren''t many agents still working at the Investigation Bureau, and although the news about Qiu Tu and the Dare-to-Die Team had begun to spread, it wasn''t yet widespread.


    The next day, as the sun rose over Xinjie City, and the various departments of the Investigation Bureau began their workday,


    the news about the Dare-to-Die Team and Qiu Tu exploded like a bomb in the calm waters of the organization.


    The mission that the Dare-to-Die Team had undertaken encountered an unexpected event and became extremely dangerous?


    Many members were injured, and three were critically wounded?


    Qiu Tu was forced to halt the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission and sent all its members back?


    But Qiu Tu himself hadn''t given up on the mission and was continuing to act in the face of immense danger?


    This somewhat legendary experience quickly elevated Qiu Tu''s reputation among the lower-level agents in various departments of the Investigation Bureau to new heights.


    If things had stopped there, maybe these agents would just deepened their image of Qiu Tu as a superior who cared and sympathized with his subordinates, choosing to side with Qiu Tu when the time came, without stirring up any real resonance...


    But then, another piece of gossip began to spread.


    The gossip was about the emergency high-level meeting the previous night.


    Someone had leaked the words spoken by Shi Youxin about the "Combat Troops" and "Logistics Department," as well as the news that the three top executives jointly vetoed Qiu Tu''s promotion.


    All of a sudden, the bottom layer of the Investigation Bureau was abuzz.


    The lower ranks of the Investigation Bureau were all ordinary agents.


    Regardless of the Public Security Bureau, the Special Service Department, the Political Department, or the Administrative Office, besides the mid-high-level officials who worked in offices, everyone else worked on the front lines.


    When someone like Qiu Tu, a high-level executive, went to the front lines for combat, Shi Youxin''s one sentence could erase most of his achievements.


    Feeling oppressed by those in the rear, this sense of shared identity suddenly made it


    impossible for everyone to accept the diminishment of their accomplishments.


    And furthermore,


    ----------


    ----


    As he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face and then untied her waist sash.


    The next second, her bathrobe slid down to reveal a body as exquisitely carved from white jade.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu acknowledged that in that moment, his heartbeat seemed to accelerate for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent man. Besides, he had a philosophy book to read tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hands, first glance, second glance... and then kept reading!


    "Fuck ''Existence'', the meaning of ''existence'' is in Cao currency!"


    Thinking this profoundly vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leaped out of bed, amidst Fang Tangtang''s cries of alarm, scooped her up, and then pressed her down onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed and brought clouds to cover her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang were engaged in a passionate battle until midnight.

 Chapter 629 - 361_3

    Fang Tangtang seemed to really take on the role of a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed her frowning several times, as her "injury" from yesterday obviously hadn''t fully healed, but she still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu....


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable the facial cleanser was when applied personally by someone close.


    "The facial cleanser really is best when used personally!"


    With that thought, Qiu Tu generously imparted his knowledge to Fang Tangtang, teaching her intricately...


    After all, as the vice director of the Political Department, he naturally had a quota for killing.


    She didn''t quite understand what that feeling was.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    However, at this moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off the towel wrapped around her, and pounced!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never felt before...


    This distinctly different pleasure made her want to use her shoulders to block Qiu Tu''s violent advances and try to call for a halt.


    But Qiu Tu held her from the front, pressing down on her shoulders, leaving her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei with no chance to resist.


    Especially... every time she was about to break down and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and whisper deeply, "Bureau Chief, do you want to breach the contract?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, as someone who had always been strong-willed, she couldn''t accept such a one-sided "beating"!


    She wanted to turn over and sing like a revolutionary!


    But... she was ultimately a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu, agreeing too hastily! But throughout the day and night, she never initiated contact with Qiu Tu nor resisted him...


    She just secretly exerted her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had really put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew to conquer this woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, barely giving her any chance to rest!


    Just like that, they struggled on until late at night and finally collapsed into each other''s arms and fell into a deep sleep, by then, the 200-square-meter lounge, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was about to drift off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was indeed strong! And truly wild!


    If it weren''t for his promotion to being a Cataclysmic, which greatly enhanced his bodily functions, and forbidding Tang Feifei from taking the lead,


    He guessed... after this session, his back would have to retire...


    [Four and a half days (Yin Caimei''s case closed)]


    [One and a half days (Danger in the darkness)] S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    The next morning, along with the first ray of dawn,


    Qiu Tu gradually woke up from his sleep.


    His reflex was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt a soreness in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu inhaled sharply, then woke up fully amidst the soreness, checked his arms, and only then did he belatedly remember yesterday''s glorious achievements.


    Thinking of himself who had worked tirelessly all day yesterday, thinking of Tang Feifei who was almost broken apart, he silently lit a candle for his own back...


    Felt that his back probably wouldn''t be useable anymore.


    Thinking this, he moved his legs slightly, feeling the soreness shooting up to his crown.


    "Let''s light one for Yue Kua too, I guess. He''s probably done for too..."


    While silently reflecting on yesterday''s intense battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached beside him, only to realize that there was no one next to him, leaving behind just a faint jasmine fragrance...


    Though he knew it was just a transaction between the two of them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    "''No merit but also no demerit,'' right?"


    "That''s just ungrateful!"


    Suddenly, as he thought this, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, her curvaceous body seeming to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    With each step, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stalking quietly and quickly through the jungle, each step full of strength and tempo.


    Coming next to Qiu Tu, she bent down to place the medicine down, then coldly said, "Drink this. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the establishment of the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    At that time, he would likely have to face Huang Shangzong''s threats directly.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu must as much as possible increase his position and strengthen his power before that,


    The deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is with the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu is with the "Reformist Faction," Meng Sanzhai is with the "Fengtian Faction."


    These three people, according to the information Yan Chen gave, except for Meng Sanzhai, should all have no relation to Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting next to him, Ouyang Heng is from the "Free Democracy Faction," and has even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four support Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, Meng Sanzhai of the "Fengtian Faction" was the most nonchalant, besides showing his support for Qiu Tu, he barely spoke.


    Truly an Evil God, just opening his mouth makes others feel comfortable.


    Color is a bone-scraping blade, but as everyone knows, we people from Zhejiang are born with tough bones


    Tightening the grip makes driving more enjoyable, sister-in-law is a bit impatient


    The mountain is a geological era of exceedingly slow waves


    Color? Not sure, but the flowers are blooming brightly, and it would seem rather insensible of me to not appreciate them


    With this thought, after successfully brushing out Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer had any dealings with Larilo after successfully brushing out Larilo''s loyalty...

 Chapter 630 - 362: Promotion! Deputy Director! (10,000 words pleading for Monthly Tickets!)

    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words and looking at the necklace-like Cataclysmic treasure in his hands,


    everyone present was visibly moved.


    After all, after the team had suffered heavy losses and danger, he alone continued deep into enemy territory and completed the mission within the allotted time!


    Moreover, even with such serious injuries, he did not forget to submit the mission!


    Such an iron will and such tenacity was enough to resonate with everyone.


    Therefore, Tang Feifei took the necklace-like treasure, the Record of the Lightning Cataclysmic treasure, from Qiu Tu''s hands with both hands and seriously nodded her head.


    "Minister Qiu! Thank you for the merits you have established for the Investigation Bureau, for Xinjie City!"


    "I and Commissioner Jiang, Colonel Lin, and all the top officials of the Investigation Bureau appreciate your dedication!"


    "We will definitely seriously review the intelligence and data you have submitted!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu simply smiled with a pale face and said, "Director, this is not my personal achievement. It is the achievement of all 24 members of the Dare-to-Die Team."


    Qiu Tu was already enough to move people; now, at this moment, he did not forget his subordinates, and the people present were even more deeply moved.


    Especially the Dare-to-Die Team members clustering around Qiu Tu, at that instant, there truly was a sense that a man would die for a confidant who understands him.


    After all... these past few days they had actually also been under a lot of pressure. The Investigation Bureau and the military had been filled with rumors and gossip because of their premature return.


    Accused of being cravenly afraid of death, of failing to protect their superior officer, of leaving the tail end of the mission for the officer to complete, of being derelict in their duties.


    They had never argued back, but in reality, they always felt somewhat repressed.


    Sometimes, they would even wonder if they had done wrong, if they should not have abandoned Minister Qiu, and should have chosen to live or die together with him.


    This self-doubt, along with the increasingly slim hope for Qiu Tu''s survival; along with the severity of Qiu Tu possibly dying for their sake, grew more grave.


    And tonight, with Qiu Tu''s eventual return, they finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Their spirits were already greatly excited.


    Then, at this time, with Qiu Tu severely injured, he had still not forgotten them.


    If this could not move them, what else could?


    So, for a moment, the loyalty of these 23 members of the Dare-to-Die Team began to soar once again!


    Watching the strings of loyalty and satisfaction indicators floating up before him, Qiu Tu nodded to himself in approval. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It had not been in vain that he deliberately did not use "Order Space" to heal his injuries, having played out this ruse deliberately!


    Looking at the effect on the scene now, he had indeed "stood out from the crowd"!


    But... it really fucking hurt!


    In this way, Qiu Tu made an extremely dazzling appearance in front of everyone, bringing an end to this "Dare-to-Die Team Mission."


    Soon, the medical team stepped forward to examine Qiu Tu''s injuries.


    With Qiu Tu''s current identity, status, and the merits he had achieved, of course, the best medical facilities were used.


    So, with just fractured bones and lacerations, it wasn''t long before he was nearly all patched up, only requiring a few more days to fully recover.


    The members of the Dare-to-Die Team stayed with the medical team the whole time, bustling about.


    As for Tang Feifei, Commissioner Jiang, Colonel Lin, and several of the Investigation Bureau''s top officials, they all went to the senior conference room and began reviewing the materials submitted by Qiu Tu.


    The materials Qiu Tu had submitted were in three parts.


    The first part was the mission of the first squad of the Dare-to-Die Team: intelligence on the two Evil Gods, Whale Shark and Xie Yue.


    The second part was the near half-completed mission of the fourth squad: mapping the area around the New Territory Base and surveying the Leyline nodes.


    The third part was the remaining soil collection samples of the third squad.


    The first part was what the first squad had been working on together for the past two days.


    The second part, with Qiu Tu possessing the Ghostly Map, was almost a matter of just copying it down.


    The third part, the soil samples, were indeed much more complicated; but because Qiu Tu had been Refining the Central Hub of the Xinjie Territory for the past few days, he had already obtained the "Infinite Teleportation" ability.


    So, it wasn''t difficult for him, just a bit more complex.


    He purposely delayed his appearance until the last moment, not only to Refine the Central Hub a bit longer but also to create more of a spectacle.


    So, his intelligence and data were impeccably complete.


    This left the Three Giants and the few senior officials unable to find fault, even if they were critical, after carefully studying the report for several hours.


    Then, after several hours of careful study of the report, the Three Giants exchanged glances.


    As the highest official in Xinjie City, theoretically, Commissioner Jiang looked at Colonel Lin and Tang Feifei and asked, "What do you two think?"


    Tang Feifei, whether out of emotional attachment to Qiu Tu or for the deal she had with him, would definitely stand on Qiu Tu''s side.


    So, she calmly began to speak, "I believe that the intelligence obtained by the Dare-to-Die Team at great risk to their lives is of high value and well rounded."


    "The Dare-to-Die Team has, in my opinion, successfully completed the mission."


    Before she finished speaking, Colonel Lin looked over at his cousin Lin Ting, then said, "Director Tang is right, the intelligence obtained by the Dare-to-Die Team is indeed excellent."


    "Minister Qiu and his team indeed faced great risks."


    "However... I don''t think that can be considered a perfect completion of the mission."


    "The reason we set up the Dare-to-Die Team was not really to verify whether Xinjie Territory was suitable for exploration, but to obtain a definitive answer: Xinjie Territory is suitable for exploration!"

 Chapter 631 - 362: Promotion! Deputy Director! (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "And now ... we''ve spent nearly ten days, lost dozens of lives, and almost caused a department head to be mortally wounded, dead. In the end ... what we''ve concluded is that it''s not suitable for expansion."


    Saying this, Major General Lin Chuan slowly shook his head, "I think ... this makes our entire plan seem utterly ridiculous."


    His words stunned the entire conference room.


    Those seated were all shrewd individuals; everyone spoke after careful consideration and certainly had their purposes.


    What Major General Lin Chuan implied was pretty straightforward, he was trying to renege on the deal.


    So ... for a moment, the conference room was awash with silent tensions ...


    When Lin Chuan collided with Tang Feifei verbally, Commissioner Jiang immediately began to sit on the fence, watching the fight from a safe distance.


    The more unpleasant things were between the military and the Investigation Bureau, the better it was for the City Hall.


    Thus, he was in no hurry to intervene or express his opinions.


    However, just as he was contemplating this, Tang Feifei''s eyes narrowed as she gazed at Lin Chuan. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her sharp gaze was full of danger ...


    In that instant, Major General Lin Chuan shuddered, feeling as if he was targeted by Tang Feifei''s menacing aura, as fierce as an ancient beast!


    He stiffened up, wanting to throw out a few harsh words.


    Yet at that moment, Tang Feifei spoke up.


    Her voice seemed to squeeze through her teeth, chillingly cold with murderous intent, "Initially, when the Sanctuary was established, there were differing opinions, so they fought it out."


    "Whoever won would be listened to."


    "So, having a few meetings, severely injuring a few, or even killing a couple of Members of Parliament is quite normal."


    "I have no other skills but to inherit the martial arts of the Tang family."


    "My grandfather taught me nine moves, if you can withstand these nine moves, Qiu Tu and the others deserves their misfortune, needlessly losing their heads and shedding their blood."


    "If you can''t withstand it ..."


    As she said this, a murderous intent filled Tang Feifei''s wheat-colored face, "then blame yourself for reaping what you sow, trying to steal the credit from frontline fighters!"


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words and sensing the unquestionable intent to kill from her, beads of sweat formed on Lin Chuan''s forehead.


    He glanced once, twice, and thrice at Commissioner Jiang ...


    Commissioner Jiang acted as if he saw nothing, casually sitting there, eyes observing his nose, nose observing his heart, not intervening.


    Tang Feifei was a Third-Order Peak, and had been practicing martial arts from a young age, her strength was far beyond an ordinary Third-Order Peak.


    Although Lin Chuan was also a Third Order, the difference was too vast.


    Thus, under Tang Feifei''s blatant threat, he hesitated, hesitated, and hesitated some more... In the end, he chickened out.


    He wiped the sweat from his forehead, smiling as he said, "Director Tang is joking."


    "There''s no need to keep the traditions of the older generation among our generation."


    "As for what I just said, it''s just discussion ... I just felt that we paid such a high price with no gains, the higher-ups would think of us as incompetent."


    "Of course ... we must still fulfill our promises to Minister Qiu and the Dare-to-Die Team."


    Luckily, when Lin Chuan had voiced his opinion earlier, he hadn''t made definitive statements, which allowed him room to defuse the situation and smooth things over.


    Even Lin Chuan, one of the Three Giants, was intimidated by Tang Feifei''s background and martial power; other high-ranking officials, even if they wanted to trouble Qiu and Tang Feifei, dared not speak up.


    Thus, the proposal regarding the promotion of the entire Dare-to-Die Team was hastily passed ...


    Everything would just wait until after work tomorrow to be announced ...


    ...


    Meanwhile, elsewhere.


    After being busily attended to by the medical team and the Dare-to-Die Team for half the day, Qiu Tu was finally settled into his private resting room on the 12th floor.


    To allow Qiu Tu to rest, the medical department also sent the Dare-to-Die Team members away to rest at the gesture of Qiu Tu''s eyes.


    Soon, only Tan Huimin, his personal secretary, was left in the resting room.


    This woman, who had been caring for Qiu Tu since earlier, was often pushed to the periphery because she was a normal human and couldn''t get close.


    Now that everyone else had left, she could finally take a good look at Qiu Tu.


    Approaching Qiu Tu, Tan Huimin held his hand, her eyes slightly red.


    Qiu Tu looked at her and whispered softly to comfort her, "I''m fine. These are just minor injuries."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin felt even more heartbroken.


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she said, "Your leg is broken, how can that be considered a minor injury?"


    Qiu Tu, hearing this, just laughed nonchalantly, "As long as it isn''t the third leg that''s broken, it''s all minor."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s irreverent remark, Tan Huimin''s fair oval face flushed slightly, and she spat at Qiu Tu, "The boss really is bad, injured like this and still in the mood for such jokes."


    Tan Huimin was naturally beautiful, and her tear-streaked face added a touch of charm.


    Thus, her every frown and smile suddenly made Qiu Tu feel a ticklish feeling in his heart.


    He had been cooped up and tense for seven days. Now suddenly relaxing, his thoughts inevitably wandered ...


    His gaze roamed over the contours outlined by Tan Huimin''s white blouse, wishing it could penetrate through.


    After a moment, Qiu Tu coughed and said, "Take off the armor!"


    "Ah?" Tan Huimin was stunned for a moment, almost not understanding Qiu Tu''s meaning.


    It was only when she saw Qiu Tu''s lingering gaze at her chest that she blushed deeply, understanding his intention.


    She hesitated for a moment, then whispered as quietly as a mosquito, "Boss, you ... are injured right now. Isn''t it inconvenient?"


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s words, Qiu Tu shook his head nonchalantly, "I''m a Second-Order Cataclysmic Awakened. These injuries don''t affect my performance at all."

 Chapter 632 - 362: Promotion! Deputy Director! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "And besides... I was just checking on your work for the past seven days."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tan Huimin''s face turned as red as if it could bleed.


    She shyly glanced at Qiu Tu and finally obediently began to unbutton her shirt.


    As the shirt came undone, the next moment, a floral bra encasing the profound cleavage appeared before Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu''s eyes brightened slightly and he continued.


    "Take off more!"


    "Take off more!"


    "Sss~ Driving without a bra is certainly prettier."


    "Come, let me check your work!"


    Since Qiu Tu was injured at that moment and it was indeed inconvenient, he directly took the role of commander, beginning to direct Tan Huimin above and below him.


    And he could only silently support Tan Huimin from behind, allowing her work to be done better...


    Perhaps because for the past seven days, he had been between life and death and hadn''t had a good rest.


    Or perhaps... because Tan Huimin''s report on her work last night had been overly earnest.


    Qiu Tu finally slept until noon before waking.


    After getting up, what awaited Qiu Tu was another round of inspections and greetings.


    This morning, the news of Qiu Tu''s survival had spread throughout the entire Investigation Bureau.


    Accompanying this news was also that Qiu Tu had actually completed the remaining mission with his own strength, making the Dare-to-Die Team''s operation a complete success!


    Thus... Qiu Tu, though a high-ranking official, had risked his life to participate in a dangerous mission. During the mission, he let his subordinates leave first and stayed behind himself to finish the mission. The "legendary story" began to circulate in various departments of the Investigation Bureau.


    If Qiu Tu''s reputation as protective, generous, understanding of his subordinates, having a background, and capable was previously known throughout the Investigation Bureau, this act draped him in a veil of legend!


    So, when it was known that Qiu Tu was severely injured and recovering on the twelfth floor, nearly everyone who was eligible wanted to visit him.


    This left Qiu Tu barely idle that afternoon.


    However... the person Qiu Tu most wanted to see wasn''t them. It was... Tang Feifei. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Because, only by seeing Tang Feifei did everything he was doing have value: his appointment as Deputy Director could truly be confirmed!


    Only then could he implement his next series of plans and... the deal with Tang Feifei!


    In the midst of Qiu Tu''s constant yearnings, just before the time came, Tang Feifei finally arrived.


    She came with Su Xiaowan, and a formal appointment letter signed by the state, her slender and agile legs lightly stepping into Qiu Tu''s resting room.


    Given their relationship, they didn''t need to bother with formalities.


    So, upon seeing Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei said nothing else but simply started with, "Congratulations, Director Qiu."


    "This time, you''ve completed the Dare-to-Die Team''s mission so perfectly, the Bureau and the state are incredibly satisfied with you."


    "So, I have brought the formal appointment from the state."


    "From now on, you officially become the Deputy Director of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, in charge of the Public Security Bureau, Special Service Department, and other frontline departments."


    "And at my request, the Political Department will also be under your supervision."


    Tang Feifei then took the officially sealed appointment from Su Xiaowan''s hands and handed it to Qiu Tu.


    Taking the appointment letter with both hands, Qiu Tu''s heart finally settled.


    "Finally... I''ve become the Deputy Director!"


    "I never thought, I''d one day climb to this position..."


    Thinking this, at the same time, Qiu Tu could feel the Cataclysmic Power inside him begin to slowly boil. His body became hotter and hotter, as if some wondrous change was about to happen!


    "Is this... a Level Up?"


    ---------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words! Seeking a mid-month minimum Monthly Ticket! Thanks!

 Chapter 633 - 363

    Qiu Tu did some quick calculations. Based on his experiences during this period,


    Section Chief level corresponded with First-order Catastrophic.


    Department Head level corresponded with Second Order Catastrophic.


    Bureau Chief level corresponded with Third Order Catastrophic.


    State Speaker level corresponded with Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver.


    Junior positions were preliminary, the top ones were at the peak. Progress between the two depended entirely on oneself.


    With time to progress, one became stronger; without it, one was the weakest of their tier.


    So by this count, having now been promoted to Deputy Director, he indeed should become a Third Order Catastrophic.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei who was still sitting beside his bed, recounting the various treatments and precautions required by the Sanctuary following his promotion.


    Then... he temporarily suppressed the excitement brought about by the promotion.


    Although he trusted Tang Feifei very much, and she had proven herself to be a trustworthy insider over time,


    But... there was still that saying. Tang Feifei was different from other women.


    Other women were independent individuals, but Tang Feifei had been branded with the marks of the Tang family and the Fengtian Faction from birth.


    For her, it was both an aid and a shackle.


    She often had no control over many things.


    Therefore... Qiu Tu could trust her with many matters but couldn''t let her in on certain core secrets.


    Like Qiu Tu''s Cataclysm Path, this was something that definitely couldn''t be made known to Tang Feifei.


    After all, Qiu Tu''s Cataclysm Path was "politics," a source of strength but also a fatal weakness.


    Once others became aware of this, they would do everything possible to stop his advancement or even scheme to demote him, both of which could affect his development.


    Qiu Tu had long recognized this disadvantage of his Cataclysm Path, so he had always been trying to develop in multiple systems¡ªfor instance, holding a position in the Security Department as a backup.


    Like... establishing his own system.


    "The above constitutes the treatment and powers enjoyed by the Deputy Director."


    At this point, Tang Feifei finished reading the duties and treatments of the Deputy Director. She put down the document in her hand and looked towards Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu came back to his senses and then looked at her.


    Xinjie City enjoyed rare good weather today. Perhaps the intermittent rain over the past few days had even cleared the sky substantially. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sunlight filtered through the window, quietly casting a golden battle armor over Tang Feifei in uniform.


    Qiu Tu felt the impulse to shout "Doff the armor!" again.


    However, he knew it was time for serious discussion, so he stopped his wild thoughts, straightened up, and said with a serious expression, "I am grateful for the Sanctuary''s trust, the State''s recognition, and the Bureau Chief''s grooming."


    "I will definitely continue to strive to assist the Bureau Chief in managing the Investigation Bureau well."


    After finishing these pleasantries, Qiu Tu, as if finally relieved, comfortably leaned back on the bed once more, then turned to Tang Feifei and asked, "Feifei, how is the plan proceeding?"


    "When are you going to vacate the position for me?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei: ...


    She glared at Qiu Tu, "One second you''re talking about assisting me in managing the Investigation Bureau well, the next you''re plotting to take over."


    "You can''t even bother pretending anymore."


    Qiu Tu said with a smile, "I''ve paid such a big price, can''t I even urge you a little?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei took a deep breath.


    She looked at Qiu Tu, her wheat-colored face showing a slightly complex expression, "Progress is a bit worse than I expected."


    "But it shouldn''t be too much of a delay. It won''t affect your plans."


    "It''s just right that you''ve just been promoted to Deputy Director, it''s not possible to move up immediately."


    "So, me occupying the position a bit longer is not a disadvantage for you."


    After saying this, she paused, her gaze slightly lowered, her voice softer, "But... no matter what, I still want to thank you."


    "I know, there are many people interested in this deal, it''s not like I was the only option."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu smiled and then said, "What''s all this about?"


    "Our relationship is akin to that of Guan Zhong and Bao Shuya, if there''s a good opportunity, how could I forget you?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s somewhat bizarre words, Tang Feifei kept her expression unchanged.


    Having spent so much time with Qiu Tu, she had grown accustomed to his occasionally flippant remarks, letting them in one ear and out the other.


    So, she naturally continued, "Even so, I still owe you a favor."


    "If there are other matters you need help with, feel free to come to me."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, a brief spark flickered in Qiu Tu''s eyes, then he said, "Really? Then... I currently want to go to a place I''ve been before..."


    Tang Feifei: ...


    Before Qiu Tu could finish, she got up with an unflustered expression and said, "I can see you''re not in good condition right now. You need some good rest."


    "Call me if there''s anything."


    "The Deputy Director''s order will be officially issued shortly. You can take over the various operational departments whenever you have time."


    After that, Tang Feifei walked out of Qiu Tu''s rest room with her lithe, athletic legs, opened the door, and left.


    Behind her, Qiu Tu crossed his arms behind his head, leaning against the bedhead. Watching Tang Feifei''s retreating figure, he clicked his tongue and muttered softly in complaint, "Going back on your word. You can''t even fulfill such a small request."


    "It seems I''ll have to wait until I''m healed up, to perform a clean sweep."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s ferocious words, Tang Feifei stumbled a bit with her steps, nearly tripping.


    That made her wheat-colored face grow even rosier as she bit her lip and glared with embarrassed annoyance.


    ''Okay, okay! Clean sweep it is then. Let''s see who triumphs when the narrow road meets the valiant!''

 Chapter 634 - 363

    After muttering that to herself, Tang Feifei was momentarily stunned, her face flushing with even greater embarrassment.


    Because she suddenly realized... she seemed to have been led astray by Qiu Tu too! What sort of idioms and colloquialisms had she blurted out!


    As she watched Tang Feifei beat a hasty retreat, the expression on Qiu Tu''s face slowly faded away.


    Actually... he was not really intending to do anything with Tang Feifei by telling those dirty jokes.


    It was because he knew Tang Feifei''s character well: she liked to act, not to talk.


    And given his current physical condition, Tang Feifei wouldn''t risk making his injuries worse by pressing him.


    So... a few dirty jokes served as a polite way to make Tang Feifei leave earlier.


    That also gave him time to level up.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu called Tan Huimin, asking her to close the door from the outside and stop anyone who came to visit or congratulate him.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu locked the door from the inside and then sat on the bed.


    He recalled the process of ascension to a Third Order Cataclysmic he had learned from Tang Feifei and Qin Shuman, hesitated for a moment, then opened the Gold-Addicted Wallet and took out a fist-sized "Boundless Divine Crystal" from within.


    With the "Boundless Divine Crystal" set aside and all preparations completed, Qiu Tu no longer waited but formally began the Level Up!


    He released the previously suppressed urge to evolve transcendently, allowing his soul to be completely liberated!


    The next second, Qiu Tu felt the Cataclysmic Power within his body slowly begin to boil, his body became hotter and his consciousness more and more fleeting!


    He seemed to be gradually disconnecting from reality, his vision increasingly blurring, sounds growing more distant, and his perception more sluggish!


    If he could open his eyes now and see his own condition, he would discover that his body seemed to be eroded by time, becoming gradually gray, decrepit.


    And what was more terrifying was that his body seemed to have lost all vitality, his eyes staring wide, his cheeks already skin and bones, as if a gust of wind could blow over and turn his entire person into ashes.


    Just as his body completely collapsed, a soft glow began to slowly emerge from Qiu Tu''s brain.


    That glimmer was like a star, dazzling, clear. It was the soul, the consciousness of a person refined to the Second-order Peak! Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And as that flicker of light grew brighter and more blinding, Qiu Tu''s consciousness seemed to suddenly awaken!


    He felt as if he resonated with the entire world; he seemed able to see the Cataclysmic Power floating in the air, like he could perceive the flow and changes of the Cataclysmic Power!


    He also seemed capable of seeing the immense source of energy beside him: the Boundless Divine Crystal!


    As he immersed himself in that mysterious and profound state, the Cataclysmic Power around him, and the pure Cataclysmic Power contained within the "Boundless Divine Crystal," began to rush frantically towards him!


    With the influx of that Cataclysmic Power, his soul and consciousness began to grow rapidly!


    His thoughts felt clearer and sharper than ever, as if the entire world was visible to him without any place to hide.


    Even more! He seemed to perceive a higher dimension of the world that lorded over this one!


    That was the world of spirits! A world more magnificent and mystical than reality!


    If he was interested, he could directly step into that world, no longer needing any "Skull Talisman," no need for the Gate between Two Realms!


    Because, he belonged to that world by nature!


    And just after Qiu Tu''s soul had been sublimated, his body could no longer withstand the power of his soul and completely collapsed, cracking apart.


    But that was of no concern... because at that moment, the flicker of light had already gradually grown into a complete human form!


    Soon, the human-shaped light, absorbing the Cataclysmic Power, began to become more solidified!


    Bones, nerves, blood vessels, organs, muscles, skin... everything was reshaped according to the soul!


    During the reshaping process,


    God knows how long it took, maybe an hour, perhaps several hours!


    Every bone, every blood vessel, every inch of muscle with its fine spiritual power meridians gradually became distinct, like stars sprinkled across the night sky, emitting dazzling light. These spiritual power meridians not only strengthened his physical robustness but also made him more efficient in absorbing and using the spiritual power from the outside.


    Muscles fortified by the nourishment of spiritual power became more resilient and strong as if they contained the weight of mountains and the liveliness of rivers. Whenever Lin Yi moved, the air would tremble gently because of his actions, a minor manifestation of the power leaking from his body. Even more astonishing was that his bones, during the ascension process, seemed to be reforged, becoming denser and more resilient, capable of withstanding more powerful impact forces.


    The Change of the Soul


    Compared to the transformation of the body, the metamorphosis of Lin Yi''s soul was deeper. His will,


    The Phenomena of Heaven and Earth


    As Lin Yi delved deeper into his ascension, phenomena began to appear in the heavens and the earth. The originally calm sky suddenly became turbulent, with dark clouds gathering, as if something momentous was about to occur. Thunder roared, lightning cleaved across the sky, each flash accompanied by immense energy fluctuations. These phenomena were not only a testament to Lin Yi''s ascension but also an acknowledgment and response to his formidable strength.


    The creatures on the ground also felt the presence of this power, looking up at the sky, their eyes filled with awe and curiosity. Some powerful Transcendents even rushed over, eager to witness this rare moment. In their eyes, Lin Yi was no longer just an ordinary Second Rank Extraordinary Being, but a strong being about to enter a higher realm.

 Chapter 635 - 363_3

    In the end, amid a deafening roar, Lin Yi successfully advanced to a Third-order Transcendent. His figure stood out brilliantly against the heavenly phenomena, as if he had become the center of the world. The power and soul within his body had also completed their transformation, ready to embrace an even more splendid future.


    ---------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang bashfully covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, the bathrobe slipped off, revealing to Qiu Tu a body as flawless as white jade, exquisitely chiseled and smooth.


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to accelerate for an instant.


    But he was, after all, a decent man. Plus, he still had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he looked down at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then kept reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the meaning of "existence" is in Cao currency!''


    With that extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought in mind, Qiu Tu leaped out of bed, and amidst Fang Tangtang''s exclamations, he scooped her up and then pinned her down on the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed and drew the dark clouds to cover her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang waged a fierce battle until the middle of the night.


    Fang Tangtang really seemed to step into the role of a girlfriend; even though Qiu Tu noticed her furrowing her brow several times¡ªyesterday''s "injuries" clearly hadn''t fully healed¡ªshe still earnestly swayed her figure, harmonizing with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized just how soft and comfortable an average Facial Cleanser could be...


    ''Facial Cleanser really is best when it''s self-used!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu generously imparted all he had to Fang Tangtang, teaching her and resolving her confusion...


    After all, as the deputy chief of the Political Department, he had a quota for killing.


    She couldn''t quite comprehend the sensation.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off the bath towel from her body, and mounted her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never encountered before... S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That distinct pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, trying to get a pause.


    But Qiu Tu had one hand gripping her front and the other pressing against her shoulder, leaving her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei simply unable to resist.


    Especially... every time she almost couldn''t take it and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean in close to her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, the always competitive her could not accept this one-sided "beat down"!


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing as a liberated serf!


    But... she was after all a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for hastily agreeing to Qiu Tu, throughout that whole day and night, she really didn''t initiate any contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    She just secretly struggled!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, hardly giving her a chance to rest!


    And like this, they struggled on until late at night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms. By that time, their 200-square-meter resting room, with all its rooms, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was about to drift off, Qiu Tu also reflected inwardly: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to a Cataclysmic, with his body greatly strengthened, and forbidden Tang Feifei from turning the tables!


    He estimated... after this round, his back would have to retire...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case resolution time)]


    [1 and a half days (Dangers in the Dark)]


    ...


    The next day, with the first rays of morning light.


    Qiu Tu slowly awoke from his deep sleep.


    On reflex, he wanted to rub his eyes, but merely lifting his arm, he felt a wave of soreness in his arm and back!


    "Ouch!"


    Qiu Tu took a sharp breath and then awoke completely amidst the soreness, checking his arm before belatedly recalling yesterday''s impressive achievements.


    Thinking back on how he had tirelessly toiled away the previous day and night, and of Tang Feifei, almost falling apart herself, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back would probably be of no use in the future.


    With that thought, he slightly moved his thigh, soreness shooting straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, light one for Yue Kua as well; it''s probably ruined too...''


    Silently lamenting over yesterday''s intense battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached for the spot beside him, only to discover that it was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Silently lamenting over yesterday''s intense battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached for the spot beside him, only to discover that it was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Silently lamenting over yesterday''s intense battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached for the spot beside him, only to discover that it was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Silently lamenting over yesterday''s intense battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached for the spot beside him, only to discover that it was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...

 Chapter 636 - 364: The Second Cataclysmic Ability! (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Ticket!)

    Listening to Qiu Tu''s words and watching his dashing figure, Tan Huimin was momentarily stunned.


    Arrange and order?


    What needed cleaning? What was there to arrange?


    Weren''t the items in the lounge already well-equipped? And it wasn''t messy either.


    Thinking this way, Tan Huimin couldn''t help but look inside the door.


    The next second, shock was written all over her fair, oval-shaped face.


    Eh? Where was her and Qiu Tu''s bed?


    That big bed?


    Why had it disappeared?


    How could her boss have rested for half a day and then... the bed was rested away too...


    Meanwhile, as Tan Huimin was thinking this,


    Qiu Tu had already left his 12th-floor private office, heading straight for the medical department on the 11th floor.


    Since the work day had finished, there were not many people left in the medical department when Qiu Tu arrived.


    Qiu Tu didn''t seem to mind, and he directly picked up the communicator to make a call to the head of the medical department.


    After a moment, the call connected. A somewhat ingratiating voice came from the handset, "Commissioner... no, no, Director Qiu. You''re looking for me?"


    As one of the three highest-ranking officials in Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu''s position and power were already at the pinnacle of Xinjie City.


    As the Deputy Director of Operations, Qiu Tu ranked third in Xinjie City, only below Tang Feifei and Yu Zhengyi. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, in terms of power, he was even above Yu Zhengyi, ranking second.


    Furthermore, because he controlled the significant weapon of the Political Department, to a certain extent, he was now on an equal footing with Tang Feifei.


    And in Xinjie City, Qiu Tu''s status was exceeded only by the Three Giants, placing him in the first echelon.


    In terms of position, due to several City Hall commissioners, he had just squeezed into the top ten of Xinjie City.


    But in terms of power, he was solidly fifth!


    Only below City Hall Commissioner Jiang, Senior Colonel Lin from the military, Tang Feifei, and Qin Shuman.


    And that was just the power he had in plain sight.


    If one were to include the command of the Security Department, granted to him by Dai Yukang,


    Qiu Tu felt that he was now the uncrowned king of the entire Xinjie City.


    With command over several thousand armed investigators, jurisdiction over public security offices throughout Xinjie City, and control over the Investigation Bureau''s secret military and intelligence departments¡­


    Who else in the entire Xinjie City could rival him?


    Even when facing Senior Colonel Lin, who commanded tens of thousands of soldiers, Qiu Tu was not the slightest bit afraid.


    It was because of Qiu Tu''s rapidly soaring position and power that the head of the medical department, despite being only one rank lower, was still exceedingly respectful and ingratiating.


    Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised or particularly concerned about the head of the medical department''s attitude.


    He grunted, then asked, "The bodies of the agents who... took the Cataclysmic Potion in the past few days but didn''t make it through¡ªwhere are they?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Director Gou of the medical department hesitated for a moment before responding, "Director, those agents'' bodies... because they were contaminated by Catastrophe Power, they might pose some danger."


    "So, we''ve stored them in the medical department''s morgue."


    "We plan to observe for half a month and, after confirming there''s no change, proceed to incinerate and bury them en masse."


    Hearing Director Gou''s words, Qiu Tu grunted once more, then instructed, "Call the on-duty staff in the medical department and ask them to unlock the morgue, then wait for me to come over."


    "I want to inspect those bodies."


    On hearing this, Director Gou was startled, then said, "Director, let us handle this dirty and exhausting task for you."


    "With so many bodies, don''t dirty your hands..."


    Listening to Director Gou''s words, Qiu Tu slightly knitted his eyebrows and rebuked, "What do you mean by dirtying my hands? Director Gou, they all sacrificed themselves for our department, for Xinjie City."


    "They are heroes!"


    Realizing his mistake after Qiu Tu''s criticism, Director Gou hurriedly chuckled and said, "You''re right, you''re right. I misspoke, I misspoke."


    After that, he promptly said, "I''ll contact someone right away to open the door for you, Director."


    Qiu Tu grunted and hung up the phone.


    Then he casually beckoned an on-duty medical staffer, asking him to lead the way to the morgue.


    Qiu Tu, on the back of legendary events during this period, had already achieved immense prestige within the Investigation Bureau.


    Within the Bureau, there might be those who didn''t recognize Tang Fei, the Acting Bureau Chief with a weak presence, but there was nobody who didn''t know Qiu Tu, the newly appointed Deputy Director.


    So, when summoned by Qiu Tu, even though it was after hours, that investigator came over excitedly to lead the way for Qiu Tu.


    After all¡­ not even considering the chance of being noticed by Qiu Tu for leading the way once, just the mere act of guiding Qiu Tu was enough to boast about in front of his colleagues for hours the next day!


    In this manner, guided by that investigator, Qiu Tu quickly arrived at the morgue.


    By now, the morgue was brightly lit, with all the lights turned on.


    The on-duty section chief, sweating profusely, was directing the movement of the dozens of bodies of those who had failed to awaken.


    Upon seeing Qiu Tu, the section chief quickly ran over and saluted, "Director! We''ve opened the morgue as per your orders and moved out the bodies of our... colleagues who failed to awaken!"


    "Please review them!"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, then stepped forward into the room, beginning to scrutinize each body.


    The dare-to-die teams from the military and Investigation Bureau had enlisted a total of 109 people. Among them, 23 awakened successfully and became Qiu Tu''s subordinates.


    The 86 who failed to awaken all lay here.


    47 from the military, 39 from the Investigation Bureau.

 Chapter 637 - 364: The Second Cataclysmic Ability! (10,000 Words Asking for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Among the 39 people at the Investigation Bureau, there were also a few acquaintances of Qiu Tu.


    For instance, there was Wang Dawei, the Guard Room Detective who had joined Qiu Tu''s ranks, harboring ambitious designs.


    Or Zhu Huoyan, Shi Zhang, Su Yun, amongst over 20 of Qiu Tu''s trusted subordinates...


    And then there were Qiu Tu''s brothers who had grown up with him, Ah-Shui and Da Tou...


    When the Dare-to-Die Team incident happened, many of Qiu Tu''s confidants and brothers came to consult him.


    Qiu Tu shared all the pros and cons with them, and while some chose to give up, others decided to take a gamble.


    Thus, of the 109 people, only 23 survived. Among the eight confidants and brothers that Qiu Tu had registered, only Chen Feng and Ding Xiaoliu survived¡­


    Now, seeing their familiar smiling faces again, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a bit melancholic.


    In these turbulent times, no one knew whether death or tomorrow would come first.


    And familiar people would always leave one''s side for various reasons.


    Thus, although Qiu Tu felt regret these days, he had long since accepted it...


    Until... upon his advancement to a Third Order Cataclysmic and awakening his second Cataclysmic ability: "Dark Legion"!


    "Dark Legion," as Qiu Tu''s second ability, almost perfectly matched his Cataclysm Path ''Order-Politics.''


    A great man once said: "Political power grows out of the barrel of a gun."


    Military power had always been one of the most crucial pillars of a country or regime! Whoever controlled the military, controlled the real power of the nation or regime!


    And in chaotic times, military power was especially critical!


    Truth exists only within the range of artillery.


    Like Commissioner Jiang, who, due to having no military force from The military and the Investigation Bureau, theoretically was the top official in Xinjie City, but¡­ his orders often couldn''t be effectively carried out in Xinjie City.


    Although Qiu Tu now controlled the military power of the Investigation Bureau, it was, after all, a force belonging to the Sanctuary system, and not truly his.


    He needed years of infiltration and persuasion to truly control this force.


    But¡­ the second Cataclysmic ability "Dark Legion" provided Qiu Tu with another option!


    Besides the Sanctuary system''s military power, he could also possess a force that belonged solely to himself!


    The ability of "Dark Legion" was simple.


    If a creature had died within the last ten days and had experienced intense emotions before death, Qiu Tu could summon and resurrect its soul over the corpse to fight for him.


    The resurrected soul could find a host body or independently cultivate.


    Its strength and Spiritual Wisdom depended on the time since death, intensity of emotions, the cost Qiu Tu paid, among other factors. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that time, after successfully advancing, Qiu Tu sensed a connection with the World Origin and learned about his second Cataclysmic ability.


    At that moment, he was enlightened.


    Because this ability was perfectly suited to his current situation.


    You see, although he had now become the Deputy Director, powerful and influential, there was still Huang Shangzong who detested him from above and Yu Zhengyi, Lin Ting, Shi Youxin, and others coveting from below.


    One misstep, and he might fall from the Clouds.


    So, he thought of keeping a few backup plans for himself, to avoid weakening his strength after a possible demotion.


    Moreover, he was about to become the Domain Master soon.


    After becoming the ruler of such a vast region, Qiu Tu would need sufficient manpower to administer it.


    Thus¡­ this ability was tailor-made for his current circumstances!


    Progressively, he could form his own team and possess a clandestine force that belonged solely to him.


    Defensively, it ensured that his power wouldn''t diminish excessively and that he retained the ability to rise again.


    Therefore, upon gaining this ability, Qiu Tu immediately started thinking about how to utilize it!


    Soon, Qiu Tu thought of the eighty-plus detectives who had died during the Cataclysm Awakening recently.


    Their courage and boldness were almost no different from the members of his Dare-to-Die Team; the only thing they lacked was a bit of luck.


    And now, Qiu Tu was willing to grant them that bit of luck, giving them another chance to live and fight for him!


    That''s why, after cleaning up the rest area, Qiu Tu left the office and headed straight to the morgue.


    And now, as Qiu Tu touched those young corpses and walked through the entire morgue,


    very soon, his hands held a dark, tar-like soul.


    He then pretended to check a few more bodies, eventually nodded towards the dead bodies of six of his trusted subordinates and brothers, and said, "These six people once worked with me; they were all my trusted subordinates."


    "Please be careful with the handling in the medical department, and bury them in a decent place."


    Indeed... as the Deputy Director, Qiu Tu could make the detectives on scene work overtime to move the bodies, and although they might not say it, they had some complaints in their hearts.


    Moreover, they were curious, why would Qiu Tu, the mighty Deputy Director, come to the morgue to inspect these dead bodies for no reason?


    Now, hearing Qiu Tu''s words, they all fell silent...


    ''We really ought to be dead¡­''


    After all, humans are made of flesh, especially medical personnel who are prone to being sentimental.


    Now, seeing that Qiu, despite being the Deputy Director, hadn''t forgotten those subordinates who had followed him and had died, they developed a deep respect for him.


    Where else could they find such a good superior...

 Chapter 638 - 364: The Second Cataclysmic Ability! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    Believe me, by tomorrow at work, this fine tale will have spread throughout the Investigation Bureau from the mouths of several agents present, garnering Qiu Tu another notch of prestige...


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu was unaware that a simple act of his could once again add yet another halo to his persona.


    At this moment, after he had gathered up the souls, he left the medical area and returned to his 9th-floor office. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon returning to the 9th-floor office and locking the door behind him, Qiu Tu tossed the lump of "tar" he was holding onto the floor.


    The "tar" hit the ground and a second later, souls began to emerge from it, transforming into dark shadows.


    They were all of the same height with vacant expressions, as if they possessed little spiritual wisdom.


    This was because they had been dead for nine days and their souls and consciousness had dissipated greatly; it was also a result of Qiu Tu not spending too much to resurrect them.


    In contrast, the last six figures that emerged seemed much more spirited.


    Zhu Huoyan, Ah-Shui, and Da Tou looked incredulously down at their ethereal forms and then up at Qiu Tu standing before them, and they instantly guessed everything.


    Tears streaming down their faces, they said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu... weren''t we dead? Did you resurrect us?"


    Qiu Tu did not deny it but solemnly nodded instead.


    These Dark Soldiers lived and died alongside Qiu Tu; their loyalty was beyond question.


    Thus, Qiu Tu did not hide it from them and briefly explained his second ability.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu told the six, "You agents, in total, there were 89 failed awakenings that resulted in death."


    "Including you, I resurrected only 78."


    "But that''s also enough to form six teams."


    "I now want one team to merge with the shadows and become Hidden Guards, staying by my side, ready to obey my commands and act when needed."


    "The other five teams, I intend to take to the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' to merge with the ancient trees in the forest."


    "To become Cataclysmic Creatures similar to Treant Guardians."


    At this point, Qiu Tu''s expression turned extremely serious, "I am now a Third Order Cataclysmic. Once I refine the regional center, I will be promoted to Fourth Order."


    "And I... have already secured external support."


    "At that time, we will formally go to war against the two Evil God Whale Sharks and Xie Yue that are dominating the Xinjie Territory!"


    "When the time comes... you five teams will take responsibility for dealing with Xie Yue''s vassal Cataclysmic, Zhou Bing."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the densely packed Dark Soldiers kneeled on one knee and responded without hesitation, "Yes, Commander!"


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu nodded in satisfaction...


    The cost of reviving these Dark Soldiers was not small.


    The ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' in his possession was consumed for his recent promotion, refining the regional center, and in the dealings with Tang Feifei, with the rest used to resurrect these 78 Cataclysm-tier Dark Soldiers!


    However, getting such a strong and loyal group of subordinates made it all worthwhile for Qiu Tu.


    After all, the resources consumed by his Cataclysm Path were not extensive, allowing him to allocate his sufficient resources to cultivating his own power.


    As for the deal with Tang Feifei... it was also related to his future path and the position of Domain Master...


    It all began the day before yesterday when Qin Shuman was "pressured" by Tang Feifei to leave, leaving only Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei together in the pit.


    At that time, Tang Feifei had earnestly tried to persuade Qiu Tu to abandon the mission and return to the world with her.


    But, Qiu Tu had a different idea.


    He asked Tang Feifei three questions.


    The first was: Do you want to become the Deputy Speaker?


    The second was: Do you want to become the Domain Master?


    The third was: Do you want to advance to Fourth Order Cataclysmic?


    Three questions that left Tang Feifei somewhat dazed, not knowing what Qiu Tu was really aiming for.


    ------


    --------


    In contrast, the last six figures that emerged seemed much more spirited.


    Zhu Huoyan, Ah-Shui, and Da Tou appeared somewhat incredulously to glance down at their ghostly figures, then looked up at Qiu Tu standing before them, immediately guessing everything.


    Tears streaming down their faces, they said to Qiu Tu, "Brother Tu... weren''t we dead? Did you resurrect us?"


    Qiu Tu did not deny it but solemnly nodded instead.


    These Dark Soldiers had lived and died with Qiu Tu; their loyalty needed no questioning.


    Thus, Qiu Tu did not conceal it from them either and briefly explained his second ability.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu addressed the six, "You agents, in total, there were 89 failed awakenings resulting in death."


    "Including you, I resurrected only 78."


    "But that''s also enough to make up six teams."


    "I now wish for one team to merge with the shadows and become Hidden Guards, staying by my side, always ready to follow my commands and take action."


    "The other five teams, I will take to the ''Boundless Heart Sea'' to merge with the ancient trees within the forest."


    "To become Cataclysmic Creatures akin to Treant Guardians."


    Upon speaking, Qiu Tu''s facial expression turned utterly serious, "I am presently a Third Order Cataclysmic. Just by refining the regional center, I will ascend to Fourth Order."


    "And I... have already secured reinforcements."


    "In due course, we will collectively wage war against the two Evil God Whale Sharks and Xie Yue that hold sway over the Xinjie Territory!"


    "At that juncture... you five teams will handle the Whale Shark''s vassal Cataclysmic, Zhou Bing."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the tightly packed Dark Soldiers knelt down on one knee and responded without hesitation, "Yes, Commander!"


    Upon witnessing this scene, Qiu Tu nodded contentedly...


    The revival of these Dark Soldiers had come at no small cost.


    The ''Boundless Divine Crystal'' he held, aside from his recent promotion, refining the regional center, and the transaction with Tang Feifei, was entirely expended on the revival of these 78 Cataclysm-tier Dark Soldiers!


    Nonetheless, acquiring such a powerful and loyal group of subordinates made it worthwhile for Qiu Tu.

 Chapter 639 - 365

    The relationship between Tang Feifei and Qiu Tu had always been one where the woman was strong and the man weak.


    The crux of the matter was... Tang Feifei, whether in terms of family background, position, or strength, far surpassed Qiu Tu.


    When she first met Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei was already a Deputy Director at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau and was one of the future cores of the Fengtian Faction. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While Qiu Tu was just an ordinary agent, living at the bottom of society, serving diligently before and after Yan Chen.


    The gap between the two was like that between the mud and the clouds.


    So, Tang Feifei had always looked down on and taken care of Qiu Tu.


    Even though Qiu Tu''s status had been rising and his power growing, Tang Feifei still considered him in her heart as that "little man" who sought her approval.


    This was also the reason she chose to come "rescue" Qiu Tu upon learning his mission might be dangerous¡ªshe believed in her heart that Qiu Tu needed her protection.


    But now, Qiu Tu had thrown at her a few questions that she had never thought of... or even, upon hearing, felt a bit shocked.


    In that instant, it was as if a barrier within her heart had been punctured...


    For the first time, she truly considered the "little man" before her.


    And at that moment, she found that she could neither understand nor see through Qiu Tu.


    Her keen intuition told her that Qiu Tu might not be the way she had imagined...


    Indeed, seeing that Tang Feifei had finally adjusted her mentality,


    Qiu Tu did nothing but raise his hand, and the next second, there came a "boom" from deep underground!


    The ground beneath their feet suddenly collapsed!


    Tang Feifei was startled but seeing Qiu Tu''s composed face, she also let go of her worries.


    In this way, they fell freely downwards until they landed in an internal cavity and came to a slow stop!


    Their feet touched the ground, and Tang Feifei opened her mouth to ask something, but at that moment, everything before her eyes became a blur!


    The next second, Qiu Tu disappeared from the spot!


    In the vast empty cavity, she was left alone!


    Tang Feifei was shocked and reflexively looked around, trying to find Qiu Tu!


    Then, in the next instant, she felt a tightness in her chest!


    When she came to her senses, she found that Qiu Tu had appeared behind her at some point, holding her, with his hands climbing her peaks!


    Her reflex was to strike back!


    But then, in the next second, Qiu Tu silently vanished from the spot again!


    This series of actions left Tang Feifei''s usually impassive, wheat-colored face full of shock!


    She was aware of Qiu Tu''s strength.


    Just... get by with it.


    He couldn''t possibly have the ghostly strength displayed before her!


    Moreover! What''s more important is!


    In this world, all Cataclysmic abilities, High Ranking Martial Techniques, are driven by the Cataclysmic Power!


    So, whenever abilities are used, or high-ranking Martial Techniques, traces are inevitably left!


    And, the stronger the effect, the more obvious the traces left behind!


    But... just now, Tang Feifei truly didn''t feel a trace of the Cataclysmic Power''s fluctuation!


    There were only two possibilities. Either Qiu Tu''s strength was so great that Tang Feifei could no longer comprehend it,


    or... Qiu Tu didn''t use the Cataclysmic Power at all.


    Not using Cataclysmic Power could only mean the power of ''rules''.


    And the ''rules'' within the Boundless Heart Sea region...


    Thinking of this, Tang Feifei''s expression changed, and a term sprang to mind:


    Domain Master!


    Qiu Tu had actually become a Domain Master?!


    Faced with this possibility, Tang Feifei was overwhelmed by a tidal wave of shock.


    She remembered that not long ago, she invited Qiu Tu to join her team to help her become a Domain Master.


    To be honest... her invitation to Qiu Tu was out of trust in his abilities, but there was also the idea of lifting him up¡ªthe Fengtian Faction even promised him the Deputy Director position.


    But Qiu Tu had firmly rejected her, saying he wanted to compete with her fairly.


    At that time, she was actually angry inside, feeling that Qiu Tu was a bit too ignorant of his limits.


    After all, there were so many competitors, so many experts, so many resources being poured into it, with everyone fighting collectively.


    How could Qiu Tu, a person with no foundation and average strength, possibly become a Domain Master?


    So, in her heart, she planned to give Qiu Tu a way out after he had hit a few walls and then find a way to pull Qiu Tu back to her side.


    This was also why she lied to her family, then chose to strive on her own.


    But... how long has it been? Half a month? Qiu Tu had actually become a Domain Master?!


    How did he do it?


    While Tang Feifei was filled with astonishment, Qiu Tu once again appeared silently before her.


    After laying out his cards in front of Tang Feifei and revealing his ability as a Domain Master, Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei and once again asked those three questions.


    Do you want to become a Deputy Speaker?


    Do you want to become a Domain Master?


    Do you want to be promoted to a Fourth-Order Catastrophe-evolver?


    This time, without any hesitation, Tang Feifei nodded her head and firmly said one word, "Yes."


    So... Qiu Tu made a deal with her.


    Qiu Tu would provide her with a Boundless Divine Crystal roughly the size of what was provided to Liu Xiongyuan when he advanced, to help her promote to a Pseudo Fourth-Order Catastrophic.


    After Tang Feifei was promoted to a Fourth-Order Cataclysmic, she would publicly declare herself the Domain Master of Xinjie City Boundary Region, providing cover for Qiu Tu!


    Afterward, with the identities of a Fourth-Order Catastrophe-evolver and Domain Master, Tang Feifei could have the Fengtian Faction maneuver her into becoming the Deputy Speaker of Dongye State!

 Chapter 640 - 365

    Meanwhile, Tang Feifei needed to cooperate with Qiu Tu in establishing a reputation at the Investigation Bureau, securing the hearts of its people for Qiu Tu.


    Furthermore, she had to ensure that the position of Acting Bureau Chief would be reserved for Qiu Tu, or at least prevent others from parachuting into Xinjie City to steal Qiu Tu''s spot.


    ¡ªFor Tang Feifei, who would be promoted later on, this wasn''t difficult.


    After all, she was the Domain Master of the Xinjie Region and wielded tremendous influence over the various affairs of Xinjie City.


    Through these steps, Qiu Tu''s identity would successfully transition from the light into the shadows, paralyzing the enemies and preserving key opportunities for development.


    Then came the critical part of the trade. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After Tang Feifei became the State Council Chairman, Qiu Tu would most likely have already become the Deputy Director and refined the Central Hub, becoming a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic.


    Qiu Tu would ask Tang Feifei for assistance from the Fengtian Faction, dispatch experts of the Fake Fourth Rank Level, and join forces with Liu Xiongyuan to together annihilate the Evil Gods Whale Shark and Xie Yue!


    Four Fourth Rank Experts, including Tang Feifei and Liu Xiongyuan who are martial arts-type Fourth Rank Experts, plus the hidden Cuiying Dragon Yiyi, the chances of success were actually quite high!


    After slaying the two Evil Gods, Qiu Tu would obtain the Boundless Divine Crystal formed from the Whale Shark''s corpse.


    The Boundless Divine Crystal formed from Xie Yue''s corpse would be freely distributed by Liu Xiongyuan and the Fengtian Faction expert.


    Afterward, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei would head to Wuhai City together, where he''d disclose to Tang Feifei the method to become a Domain Master and assist her in achieving that status.


    By that point, Tang Feifei''s status as Domain Master would change from ''false'' to ''true.'' The position of Deputy Speaker would also be free from any threat.


    And Qiu Tu... could then shift from ''shadow'' to ''light.'' He would officially reveal his status as Domain Master to the Sanctuary and strive for the position of Deputy Speaker!


    This plan brought several benefits to Qiu Tu.


    Firstly, it significantly reduced the dangers Qiu Tu faced during his initial undeveloped phase, with Tang Feifei standing out to withstand the pressure for him.


    Secondly, he could bring down the powerful Fengtian Faction to face the Evil Gods Whale Shark and Xie Yue through Tang Feifei.


    If Qiu Tu stuck to his original plan: after becoming a Domain Master himself, inviting Liu Xiongyuan, Tang Feifei, or other experts to confront Whale Shark and Xie Yue.


    Given that Xinjie Region was his, he would certainly have had to pay a significant price.


    But now, he essentially got his enforcers free of charge.


    Thirdly, he could lay out plans in advance, strengthening his allies and his say in Dongye State.


    Assuming he followed protocol to become a Domain Master and aimed for Deputy Speaker.


    Let''s not talk about whether a nobody like him, with no faction backing him, would become the target of other factions with sinister plans. Just consider Huang Shangzong, who would likely use various excuses to delay Qiu Tu''s opportunity to become Deputy Speaker.


    The political arena has oh so many methods of tormenting individuals. After Qiu Tu became Domain Master, he would be qualified for Deputy Speaker. But... how long it would take to achieve this, what procedures he''d have to go through, how many formalities he''d have to complete?


    There would be too many opportunities for manipulation.


    But this was not an issue for Tang Feifei; with the support of the Fengtian Faction behind her, becoming Deputy Speaker was simply a matter of course.


    Once she became Deputy Speaker, in cooperation with insiders Liu Xiongyuan and Dai Yukang¡ªher covert ally¡ªwith three of Dongye State''s five Speakers supporting Qiu Tu, everything would fall into place.


    Even if Huang Shangzong was truly selfless and had no plans to meddle with Qiu Tu... just taking this extra detour would net an additional ally at the Deputy Speaker level, which was very much worth it.


    Fourth, and most importantly... in this trade, Qiu Tu actually gave up nothing.


    The Xinjie Region remained his.


    The Boundless Divine Crystal used to promote Tang Feifei was the one tampered with by Zhao Ji. Qiu Tu hadn''t dared to use it anyway.


    Moreover, Tang Feifei would later return double the amount of Divine Crystal to him.


    As for the Whale Shark''s Wuhai Area...


    That belonged to Larilo! What did it have to do with Qiu Tu? (Chapter 353)


    Given his current strength and power, it would be good enough for him to hold onto a single region. He never had designs on the Wuhai Area to begin with.


    So... whether it went to Larilo or Tang Feifei, it made no difference to him. He''d side with whoever had the greater benefit...


    Maybe... neither of them would end up with the Wuhai Area...


    Umm, Qiu Tu was already a Fourth-Order Catastrophe-evolver + the de facto Domain Master + Deputy Speaker, who could ask him to account for this?


    Don''t fear Qiu Tu''s ability to win people over with virtue!


    For the most part, just compensate them with a few hundred billion.


    Or perhaps... why not join together again to raid another Evil God? Guaranteed success this time?


    Of course, while Qiu Tu stood to gain tremendous advantages from this plan, Tang Feifei did as well.


    Not to mention the somewhat ethereal status of Domain Master. Just by leaping to become a Pseudo Fourth-Order Cataclysmic and Deputy Speaker, she''d save nearly seven to eight years of time.


    And if she could truly become a Domain Master, she would rise to the true upper echelons of the Fengtian Faction.


    Even if she couldn''t, given she was the pillow-talk partner closest to Qiu Tu¡ªthe Domain Master¡ªwithin the Fengtian Faction.


    The Fengtian Faction, wanting to develop the Xinjie Region, would still have to cooperate with her and Qiu Tu.


    She wouldn''t lose out.


    That''s why today, when she saw Qiu Tu, she once again thanked him and said that the trade would interest many, it wasn''t just choosing her...


    It can be said that Qiu Tu''s plan,


    -----------


    Just as he was entertaining these thoughts, Fang Tangtang bashfully covered her face, then proceed to untie the belt at her waist.


    The next second, her robe slipped off, revealing before Qiu Tu a body as impeccably sculpted and flawless as white jade.

 Chapter 641 - 365_3

    Qiu Tu: ..... sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heart seemed to have sped up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a serious person. Plus, he still had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he lowered his head and looked at the book in his hand, "Existence", once, twice... and then continued reading!


    "Fuck ''Existence'', the meaning of ''Existence'' lies in Cao currency!"


    Thinking that extremely crude, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed and, amidst Fang Tangtang''s cries of surprise, scooped her up and then pinned her down on the bed....


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling in dark clouds to cover her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang battled until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to really immerse herself into the role of a girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu noticed her furrowing her brows several times, yesterday''s "wound" clearly hadn''t completely healed, she still earnestly swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable Tough Kung Fu''s facial cleanser was....


    "Facial cleanser is indeed best when used personally!"


    With this thought, Qiu Tu also imparted all he could to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her and resolving her confusions....


    After all, as the deputy head of the Political Department, he naturally had a quota for killing.


    She was somewhat puzzled by that sensation.


    She just felt it was extremely comfortable....


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei down on the floor, ripped the towel off her body, and pounced!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a feeling she and Liu Fuping had never had before....


    That completely different pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s aggressive mouth several times, trying to get him to stop.


    But Qiu Tu held her from the front and pressed down on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei practically unable to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was about to lose her endurance and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean close to her ear and whisper in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the contract?"


    That moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, being strong-willed from childhood, she of course couldn''t accept this one-sided "beating"!


    Several times she wanted to turn the tables and sing a song of revolt!


    But... she was, after all, a person of her word.


    So... even though she silently cursed herself many times for agreeing to Qiu Tu, agreeing too rashly! But that day and night, she really hadn''t taken the initiative to touch Qiu Tu, nor had she resisted him...


    She just silently struggled!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had really put in tough effort.


    He knew, to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung heavily to Tang Feifei, barely giving her a chance to rest!


    Just like this, they struggled on into the deep night until they collapsed into each other''s arms and fell into a deep sleep, by which time, that 200 square meter resting room, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was about to drift off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected inwardly: Tang Feifei is truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to being a Cataclysmic, with his body greatly strengthened, and prevented Tang Feifei from turning the tables!


    He guessed... after this wave, his back would have been ready to retire...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of the morning sun.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from deep sleep.


    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes, but as soon as he raised his hand, he felt a soreness in his arms and back!


    "Shh!"


    Qiu Tu gasped in a breath of cold air, then came to his senses in the soreness, checked his arms, and then belatedly remembered yesterday''s glorious achievements during the day and night.


    Thinking of yesterday''s self, who only knew hard work, and of Tang Feifei, almost falling apart from the struggle, he silently lit a candle for his back....


    Feeling that his back would likely be unusable in the future.


    With that thought, he slightly moved his thigh, and the soreness shot straight to his crown.


    "Forget it, light one for Yue Kua too, probably wasted as well...."


    Silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached beside him, and then only discovered that his side was already empty, leaving behind just a faint scent of jasmine....


    Although he had long known that their relationship was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    "Isn''t there at least some credit for hard work?"


    "This is too much like disowning one after use!"


    Just when he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked over barefoot, with bare legs, and naked, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs long, her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    As she walked, she naturally carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily speeding through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to set down the medicine, then said coldly, "Drink this. You had it tough last night."


    Especially... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the establishment time of the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    By then, he would likely face a direct threat from Huang Shangzong.


    So, Qiu Tu must enhance his position and strengthen his capabilities as much as possible before then.


    The deputy heads of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie was from the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu was from the Reformist Faction, Meng Sanzhai was from the Fengtian Faction.


    According to the information provided by Yan Chen, other than Meng Sanzhai, none should have any relation to Qiu Tu.


    With this thought, he couldn''t help but glance toward Ouyang Heng sitting beside him, who belonged to the Free Democracy Faction and had even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, Meng Sanzhai from the Fengtian Faction was the most detached, merely showing an attitude of support for Qiu Tu without really speaking.

 Chapter 643 - 366: Investigation Bureau, I Have the Final Say! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "According to the intelligence brought back by the Dare-to-Die Team..."


    Tao Yaoyao read the content of the message, and a trace of thoughtfulness flashed across her face.


    After a moment, she said, "The intelligence submitted by the Dare-to-Die Team was reviewed together by the Three Giants. It was later passed on to other senior leaders and experts from each faction and each Sanctuary for review."


    "None of you found any information relating to becoming the Domain Master. That suggests, with high probability, that there was no hidden information in that intelligence."


    "So... Director Tang has likely received an additional piece of intelligence."


    "And combining the time when Director Tang became the Domain Master, with the Dare-to-Die Team members'' return..."


    "That piece of intelligence, or that item, was very likely obtained by Director Qiu during his solo operation for three days, then upon his return, he handed it over to Director Tang alone."


    Commissioner Jiang nodded slightly.


    He looked out the window with an expression neither joyous nor sorrowful, then said with some emotion, "I had long heard that the relationship between Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei was somewhat unusual. Now it seems... it really is the case."


    "That''s the Domain Master we''re talking about. Someone who can truly dominate a region, who can become a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, who can be a Deputy Director. But in the end... he gave it away so easily."


    "They say that even heroes find it hard to pass the beauty test. The ancients truly didn''t deceive me."


    Having said this, he sighed, "If I had known Qiu Tu was such a man of sentiment, I should have..."


    Perhaps realizing his words were inappropriate, Commissioner Jiang abruptly stopped speaking and said no more.


    Tao Yaoyao''s face turned red and then pale upon hearing Commissioner Jiang''s words...


    At that moment, Commissioner Jiang conveniently changed the subject. As if nothing was wrong, he said with a smile, "However... the promotion of Tang Feifei is also a good thing."


    "Now, she''s in charge of the Investigation Bureau, but let''s not forget... Lin Chuan had previously forced Qiu Tu to go on a suicide mission. After pressuring Qiu Tu to his death and upon his survival, he wanted to turn around and deny any association."


    "With Qiu Tu''s personality, he is unlikely to let Lin Chuan go. There will soon be a good show to watch..."


    ...


    What Tao Yaoyao could deduce with a little guidance, other smart people didn''t even need to say.


    Meanwhile, at the same time.


    The military, Security Department.


    Rain Butterfly stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window in her office, looking at the immense Illusion of the Law with a bit of envy and jealousy...


    And recalling the scene where Tang Feifei had driven her away in the "Boundless Heart Sea," her hands involuntarily clenched tightly...


    ...


    Just as the entire upper echelons of Xinjie City were secretly stirring due to the unexpected event of Tang Feifei "becoming the Domain Master" and advancing to a Pseudo Fourth Order...


    Investigation Bureau, 12th floor, senior meeting room.


    Qiu Tu finally waited for the arrivals of Yu Zhengyi, Shi Youxin, Lin Ting, and Guan Weihua.


    Seeing the four arriving hurriedly and looking travel-worn, Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then said with a smile, "I truly appreciate the effort from all of you."


    "I am forced to convene this emergency meeting so late, and I hope everyone can understand."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, the four exchanged glances and then all cooperatively said, "It''s fine, we understand, we understand."


    Yu Zhengyi even went out of his way to smooth things over, "It is right and proper to convene an emergency meeting when faced with such unexpected events."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then said, "Yu is right, so please, everyone, take your seats."


    Having finished speaking, without any hesitation, Qiu Tu took the main seat which had belonged to Tang Feifei.


    Seeing this, the four froze for a moment but then sat down in their respective places.


    Qiu Tu observed the changes in their expressions but didn''t mind.


    When he was a minister, he had to be submissive, forming alliances and resorting to all sorts of maneuvers and schemes;


    If he had to continue being submissive as the Acting Bureau Chief and still had to resort to schemes, then what would be the point of being the Acting Bureau Chief?


    He had one purpose in becoming the Bureau Chief: to enjoy himself!


    If anyone made Qiu Tu uncomfortable, he would let them see what it meant to be a civilized and virtuous country, to win people over with "virtue"!


    Thinking this way, Qiu Tu glanced at the four present and then directly started the proceedings.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, you must have all seen the message sent by Director Tang before she went into seclusion."


    "But after all, it was not an official authorization document."


    "I''ll let everyone review the formal authorization document here first."


    Saying this, Qiu Tu opened the folder in front of him, took out the authorization document, and passed it to Yu Zhengyi sitting beside him.


    Yu Zhengyi read it with an expressionless face, then passed it to Shi Youxin next to him.


    Shi Youxin took it, read through it carefully, then passed it to Lin Ting...


    In this way, in just a short while, everyone finished reading and passed the document back to Qiu Tu''s hands. As Qiu Tu put the documents away, he also said solemnly, "Now that everyone has seen the document, I hereby officially declare."


    "From now on, I am in charge of the Investigation Bureau!"


    Having finished, Qiu Tu did not wait for any reaction from the others and addressed Yu Zhengyi directly, "Director Yu, there''s more hard work ahead for you. Director Tang becoming the Domain Master and ascending as a Fourth-order Cataclysmic needs to be reported to the state authorities."


    "This is within your responsibility. After the meeting, you should personally call and report to the state." S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Yu Zhengyi hesitated but then nodded.


    Qiu Tu turned to Shi Youxin and said, "Minister Shi, before Director Tang''s promotion, she specifically instructed me to arrange the promotion matters for the Dare-to-Die Team members."


    "Additionally, she listed the names of individuals eligible for simultaneous promotion."


    "I hope that the Organizational Department will take care of this matter well by tomorrow."

 Chapter 645 - 367

    The senior executives present had actually watched Qiu Tu rise step by step.


    Thus, they all knew the path of Qiu Tu''s promotion¡ªit was nothing short of legendary.


    However, it was precisely because his experiences were legendary that Qiu Tu''s foundation was extremely shallow.


    During this period, Qiu Tu had been desperately trying to strengthen his foundation: for example, by building his prestige within the Investigation Bureau, nurturing his confidants, and placing his brothers in various departments¡ªfor this exact reason.


    But... the foundations of politics can be supplemented by various means. There are no shortcuts when it comes to strength itself.


    Qiu Tu had become a Cataclysmic only six months ago, and even though the Cataclysm Path he took was straightforward and his talent was very high, he still needed to progress step by step.


    Thus, the senior executives actually had some guesses about Qiu Tu''s strength: either First Rank Middle Phase or Peak First-Order.


    Such strength was quite strong, overwhelmingly so against ordinary people.


    But... when facing someone like Lin Ting, a Peak Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened from the Martial School, it seemed somewhat insufficient.


    Although the Sanctuary never used realm or strength as a criterion for promotion, in the Planning Area, the military, and the Investigation Bureau, strength was very important.


    For administrative officials like Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, it was fine. No one would demand their strength.


    But for action officials like Qiu Tu, Lin Ting, and Guan Weihua, strength sometimes represented their confidence when speaking.


    Don''t forget, even someone of Liu Xiongyuan''s status had started fights during meetings multiple times.


    In chaotic times, fists are indeed the most direct solution.


    In the action sequence, even if the position was high, without sufficient strength, it was still hard to convince anyone.


    Thus, now Lin Ting, challenging Qiu Tu, emanated his aura as a Peak Second Order Cataclysmic, and the high-ranking officials present looked at Qiu Tu with somewhat sympathetic eyes.


    After all, this was the first time Qiu Tu had held a temporary senior-level meeting as the Acting Bureau Chief.


    If he didn''t overcome this obstacle, he would become a joke in the Investigation Bureau. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The prestige he had accumulated during this period would also vanish into thin air.


    At this time... Qiu Tu also noticed the unusual looks from the crowd. It''s just... he was a bit confused.


    Why were Yu Zhengyi and others looking at him like that?


    What had happened?


    He was a bit puzzled as he looked at Lin Ting and after carefully sensing the situation, he hesitantly realized: Lin Ting... was emitting his aura at him?


    He almost... didn''t feel it.


    Then, in the next second, he realized: Oh... he had been promoted to a Third Order Cataclysmic.


    It turned out... a Second Order Cataclysmic appeared so weak in front of a Third Order Cataclysmic.


    So weak... that Lin Ting''s challenge even seemed somewhat adorably foolish?


    It''s just... although he didn''t feel any negative emotions from Lin Ting''s show of strength, Qiu Tu knew that since he had just become the Acting Bureau Chief, facing such a situation, there was only one thing to do: fight!


    Thus, the next second, Lin Ting''s chair exploded with a "bang!"


    Everyone in the conference room jumped, thinking that Lin Ting couldn''t hold back and had started a fight. They quickly moved back!


    But after they moved back, they realized that the situation was completely different from what they had expected!


    Lin Ting had not made a move against Qiu Tu but had instead knelt on both knees, smashing his chair and firmly knelt amidst the scattered debris.


    And he was facing Qiu Tu, who still sat calmly in the main seat.


    It somewhat seemed like Lin Ting was admitting his mistake after realizing he had misspoken.


    Seeing this scene, the high-ranking officials present couldn''t help but blink, somewhat unclear about what had actually happened.


    Then, at that moment, Qiu Tu spoke.


    He looked at Lin Ting with a deep gaze, his voice cold as ice, "I''ve seen many plant flowers and trees, but it''s my first time seeing someone planting graveyard grass on their own head."


    "Minister Lin, were you challenging your direct superior just now?"


    Even if we disregard the nominal power Qiu Tu currently wielded as the Acting Bureau Chief, his official position was Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, and he was Lin Ting''s direct superior.


    Such a challenge from Lin Ting, if successful, would shame Qiu Tu. But if it failed, it was a grave disrespect to a superior. Qiu Tu had many reasons to be displeased.


    At this time, hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Lin Ting, kneeling with his head raised, his square and righteous face filled with rage and disbelief!


    He struggled to stand up, but no matter how hard he tried, his knees seemed glued to the ground, utterly unable to lift.


    He gritted his teeth, his face fierce as he erupted with all his Cataclysmic Power!


    But... his body seemed as if controlled by some law, completely unable to move!


    He looked at Qiu Tu, then roared with eyes wide and splitting, "Qiu Tu! Making a sneak attack, what kind of hero does that make you!"


    "Come on, let''s have a fair fight!"


    Many Cataclysmic abilities, while low in level, can have remarkable effects. A sudden attack can catch even stronger Cataclysmics off guard.


    So that''s why Lin Ting provoked Qiu Tu in such a manner.


    But the thing is... Qiu Tu''s Cataclysmic ability wasn''t like that.


    On the contrary, his Cataclysmic ability was useless against higher-level enemies, but against those of a lower level, it was truly devastating.


    So, seeing Lin Ting still not giving up hope, Qiu Tu calmly sat in the main seat, coldly watching Lin Ting, "As you wish."

 Chapter 646 - 367_2

    After finishing his words, Qiu Tu "snap!" made a loud finger snap.


    The next second, Lin Ting felt as if he had regained control of his body!


    Without giving Qiu Tu another chance, he yelled loudly and pounced on Qiu Tu like an arrow released from its bow!


    His body, strengthened by two Cataclysms, had reached the physical limit of an ordinary human!


    So his speed was incredibly fast, crossing the distance of those dozen meters in nearly an instant!


    But as fast as Lin Ting was, Qiu Tu was even faster.


    His speed was the limit for an ordinary human! But... Qiu Tu had already completely transformed, no longer belonging to the realm of ordinary humans!


    So, the next second, with a wave of his hand,


    Lin Ting was sent flying back even faster than he had come!


    A thunderous "boom!" resounded!


    Lin Ting''s body was now embedded in the shape of a "big" character on the wall of the high-level conference room!


    The high-ranking officials present at the scene all constricted their pupils slightly, their hearts surging like a stormy sea!


    Yet, this was still not the end.


    As the Special Duties Department Director, Lin Ting might have been average in abilities, but he did possess strength and toughness.


    Thus, even after being sent flying by Qiu Tu with one move, he roared unbelievably and charged again!


    The next second, "boom!"


    He continued to charge!


    And he continued to be sent flying!


    Just like that, he was sent flying five or six times.


    Everyone present, including Lin Ting, finally faced a reality that they found hard to believe: in front of Qiu Tu, Lin Ting was like a child, completely powerless to fight back!


    But... Lin Ting was a Peak Second Rank Catastrophist.


    Could it be that Qiu Tu...


    Was a Third Order Cataclysmic?


    Impossible!


    Just then, Qiu Tu finally got up as well.


    He slowly stood, then looked at Lin Ting, who was now spitting blood, riddled with injuries, and staggering against the wall, and suddenly his aura erupted like a bomb!


    It was a might that far surpassed Lin Ting''s, sweeping through the conference room like a ferocious prehistoric beast!


    Among those high-ranking officials present, Lin Ting was the strongest; others like Guan Weihua and Yu Zhengyi were Second Order Cataclysmics, while Shi Youxin was merely a First Order Peak Disaster.


    Such strength was completely negligible in front of Qiu Tu, a Third Order Cataclysmic! S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, in that moment, they all felt an overwhelming heaviness as if they were carrying hundreds of pounds on their backs, their spines bending under the weight!


    And what was more terrifying was that the imposing aura gripped their throats like a shadow, making their breathing much more difficult!


    "Third... Third Order."


    Among them, Lin Ting was actually in the best condition.


    Although he was injured, his strength was still there. So, despite the pressure from Qiu Tu''s aura, he was still able to speak and move normally.


    His eyes bulged as he looked at Qiu Tu with disbelief written all over his face, "You... how could you possibly be a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "It''s fake, definitely fake..."


    After saying that, he roared again and charged up!


    The previous times, Qiu Tu had held back for his sake. Now, seeing his own aura unleashed and Lin Ting still not backing down, Qiu Tu no longer showed restraint.


    Looking at the onrushing Lin Ting, he stretched out his right hand and fiercely clenched it!


    The next second! It was as if Lin Ting was squeezed by an invisible hand, his body compressing violently!


    "Squeak, crunch, squeak..." The sound of bones breaking echoed with Lin Ting''s "ah ah ah!" wails in the eerily quiet conference room!


    Blood burst forth, his body twisted!


    Two seconds later, when Qiu Tu let go, Lin Ting collapsed onto the ground like a pile of mush...


    But at this moment, Qiu Tu acted as if he had just done the simplest of tasks, lightly brushing off the wrinkles on his clothes and taking his seat at the head of the table.


    Then he looked up at the other high-ranking officials still standing stiffly on the sides of the conference room, scared and unable to recover their composure, and said, "This meeting was recorded in both audio and video. Everything was captured, including Minister Lin''s mid-meeting provocations and attempt to attack the Deputy Director."


    "Of course, according to the traditions of our Sanctuary meetings, such disputes won''t have any consequences for him."


    ----------


    ----


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then she undid the sash around her waist.


    The next second, her bathrobe slipped off to reveal a body that was as flawless as white jade, exquisitely delicate.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to accelerate for an instant.


    But after all, he was a man of integrity. And he still had to read that philosophical work tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then he kept reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the true meaning of "existence" lies in the Cao currency!''


    As he thought such radically vulgar thoughts mocking philosophy, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed and, amid Fang Tangtang''s shrieks, scooped her up and pressed her down onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed and called upon the clouds to shield her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang waged a fierce battle until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to fully embrace the role of girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu noticed her frowning from time to time, revealing that her "wound" from the day before hadn''t fully healed, she still earnestly gyrated her hips and matched Qiu Tu''s movements...


    And once more, Qiu Tu experienced just how soft and comfortable Flush E''s Facial Cleanser could be...


    ''Facial Cleanser is indeed best used on oneself!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu shared all he had with Fang Tangtang, imparting knowledge, receiving understanding, and dissolving doubts...

 Chapter 647 - 367_3

    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he already had a quota for killing.


    She was somewhat confused about what that feeling was.


    She just felt like it was extremely comfortable...


    However, at this moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off the bath towel from her body, and mounted her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never had before...


    That utterly different pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, trying to call for a halt.


    But Qiu Tu was holding her from the front with one hand and pressing down on her shoulder with the other, like a fish out of water, she continuously could not turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially... every time when she was almost at her limit, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean into her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, her competitive nature from childhood could not accept such a one-sided "beating"!


    She had thought several times of "turning over the landowner to sing"!


    But... after all, she was a person of her word.


    So... even if she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily! But during this day and night, she really did not touch Qiu Tu voluntarily, nor did she resist him...


    She was just secretly exerting her strength!


    And this time, Qiu Tu had indeed put in some tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung to Tang Feifei relentlessly, hardly giving her a chance to rest!


    Like this, they struggled until late into the night, then finally fell asleep in each other''s arms; by this time, that more than 200-square room, every chamber, had already been filled with the traces of their fight...


    In the haze of drifting to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to become a Cataclysmic, his body greatly strengthened, and forbade Tang Feifei from turning the tables!


    He guessed... after this bout, his back would have been announcing retirement...


    (4 days and a half (Yin Caimei case closure time))


    (1 and a half days (danger in the darkness))


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first stream of morning light.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke from deep sleep.


    His reflex was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his hand, he felt a sore ache in his arm and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu took a sharp intake of cold air, then came to his senses amid the soreness, checked his arm, and then only belatedly remembered yesterday''s glorious achievements over a whole day and night.


    Thinking about yesterday''s hard work, buried deep in toil, and thinking about Tang Feifei, who was almost tormented to the point of falling apart, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back would probably be useless from now on.


    Thinking this, he moved his thigh slightly, and the soreness shot straight to the crown of his head.


    ''Well, give a candle to Yue Kuaye too, it''s probably done for...''


    While silently reflecting on yesterday''s fierce battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached out beside him, only to discover that the spot next to him had long been empty, leaving behind just a faint jasmine scent...


    Although he had known all along that it was just a transaction between the two, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s still hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much of a cold shoulder!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, with bare legs, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were slender, her body''s curves seemingly filled with endless explosive power and resilience. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She moved with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily speeding through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.


    She came to Qiu Tu''s side, bent down to put down the medicine, and then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the establishment time for the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    Then, he might have to face the threat from Huang Shangzong head-on.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu must increase his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before that,


    The deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belongs to the "Iron-Blood Faction", Zhou Jingfu to the "Reformist Faction", Meng Sanzhai to the "Fengtian Faction".


    These three people, according to the information provided by Yan Chen, apart from Meng Sanzhai should have nothing to do with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he couldn''t help but look at Ouyang Heng sitting beside him, Ouyang Heng is from the "Free Democracy Faction", even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four of them support Qiu Tu!


    And among these four, it was Meng Sanzhai from the "Fengtian Faction" who was the most detached, only showing support for Qiu Tu without saying much.


    Truly worthy of an Evil God, just opening their mouth made people feel comfortable.


    Color is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we people of Zhejiang are born with tough bones


    Only gripping the handle tightly makes driving exciting, sister seems a bit impatient


    The mountain is the extremely slow wave of geological ages


    Color? Not sure, just that the flowers are blooming brightly, if I don''t admire them that would seem unappreciative


    Thinking this, after successfully brushing up the Loyalty from Larilo, Qiu Tu no longer bothered with Rilo.


    ------


    "In order to comply with the procedure, and to avoid unnecessary complications, we carried out the arrest of the Eagle immediately after the Speaker officially took office."


    ---------


    After getting Qiu Tu''s nod, Guan Xiao looked at him strangely, then asked, "Boss... You don''t seem surprised at all by this intelligence?"


    She asked in a puzzled tone, "Don''t you think this intelligence is very important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Upon hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right." Correct.

 Chapter 651 - 369

    Thinking this, Qiu Tu once again took out two Cataclysmic treasures and placed them in the rest room.


    One was a warning treasure, and the other was an anti-surveillance treasure.


    Both were acquired by Qiu Tu in his capacity as the acting Bureau Chief from the logistics equipment department.


    Unlike his previous trips into the "Boundless Heart Sea," Qiu Tu was now a Third Order Cataclysmic.


    He no longer needed the "Skull Talisman" to enter and exit the "Boundless Heart Sea"; he could go there in his True Body.


    According to the information obtained from Tang Feifei,


    the biggest difference between Third Order and Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened was: a complete transformation!


    In terms of the Xianxia World, it meant that Qiu Tu had shed his "mortal body" and refined the true Dharma Body!


    No matter how many diseases, disabilities, or hidden ailments the original body had, after ascending to Third Order, none of these had any connection with the new body.


    The new body was completely reshaped by the Cataclysmic Power in a way that fully matched the soul.


    In essence, this body was entirely materialized by the Cataclysmic Power.


    The blood vessels, muscles, nerves, etc. were just present in the form usually familiar to humans.


    Although he hadn''t tested his genes, Qiu Tu felt that his current genes were probably the same as in his previous life, not the same as his predecessor.


    The advantage of the body being entirely materialized by Cataclysmic Power was... since it wasn''t "material," the "Boundless Heart Sea," which was a Spirit World, would no longer reject Qiu Tu''s body.


    He no longer needed to pass through the portal of time and space to travel between two worlds; instead... it was as simple as drinking water...


    Thinking this, the deep black color in Qiu Tu''s eyes slowly turned into a clear azure.


    In his view, the material world around him began to gradually fade. Replacing it was a dark world where lines of various shapes, almost transparent and about to disappear, shimmered brilliantly.


    These lines stretched into the distance, forming tangible objects and buildings in the dark.


    If this had all just been a state of Spiritual Vision, but... at that moment, Qiu Tu slowly stretched out his hand and then suddenly pushed down.


    The next second, the platform he was standing on abruptly started to flip, and all the lines and objects spun along with him!


    As the world turned to another angle, the lines in the dark before Qiu Tu''s eyes began to progressively extend!


    Some of these lines sketched out the shape of a hillside, some the shape of a stream, others the shape of a valley.


    The darkness gradually began to fade, and the sounds of insects and birds started to emerge around Qiu Tu!


    A vast Primitive Forest slowly appeared in front of Qiu Tu!


    This was... the true appearance of the "Boundless Heart Sea" Xinjie Territory!


    As an Existence, interdependent with the real world, the regions of the Boundless Heart Sea actually corresponded one-to-one with the buildings and objects of the real world.


    The two were like light and shadow, two sides of the same world, just manifested in different forms.


    After arriving in Boundless Heart Sea, Qiu Tu immediately activated "Infinite Vision" to ascertain his location.


    Entering the Boundless Heart Sea through the "Skull Talisman" was analogous to logging into a game.


    Where you logged out last time is where you log in this time.


    However, entering the Boundless Heart Sea with his physical body meant that it would correspond to the real environment.


    The location where Qiu Tu was, was at a marsh in the southeast of the Xinjie Territory.


    He had been here before, and it was quite a secluded place. From "Infinite Vision," it was evident that the Zhou Bing brigade was searching for Leyline Nodes elsewhere.


    Meanwhile, Whale Shark and Xie Yue, the two Evil Gods, were sitting refining a Leyline Node.


    During his last transaction with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu had also inquired about the methods to become a Domain Master at Sanctuary.


    According to Tang Feifei, during this period, the Eighth Sanctuary had obtained the method to become a Domain Master from other Sanctuaries.


    It was the same method used by Whale Shark and Xie Yue for refining.


    That was to search for Leyline Nodes in the Boundless Heart Sea Region and then figure out how to refine them bit by bit.


    The number of Leyline Nodes differed in each Boundless Heart Sea Region.


    Some had 36, some 49, some 64, and others 81, 108, with a maximum reported to be 365!


    According to the research of other Sanctuaries, the number of Leyline Nodes was related to the size of the region and its Energy Level (total amount of Cataclysmic Power contained).


    Besides refining Leyline Nodes, there was another method to become a Domain Master, but the other Sanctuaries hadn''t told the Eighth Sanctuary.


    It was also possible that the higher-ups of the Sanctuaries hadn''t told the lower levels.


    They only said that if you encounter the second method, you will understand on your own.


    Qiu Tu guessed that what they were referring to was the Refining Area Center! S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Tang Feifei had also guessed that Qiu Tu might use the second method. After finishing speaking, she looked at Qiu Tu with a complicated expression.


    However, she always knew where the boundaries of their relationship lay, so she didn''t ask further.


    Because this secret was too important, Qiu Tu didn''t explain to Tang Feifei either.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu slowly retracted his thoughts. He checked again the refining speed of Whale Shark and Xie Yue.


    The Xinjie Territory was a medium-sized region, and although 81 Leyline Nodes weren''t many, they weren''t few either.


    During this period, aside from pursuing Qiu Tu, Whale Shark and Xie Yue had been refining nodes, and they had already refined 65. They were more than halfway through.


    Give them a few more days, and they would likely completely finish the refining.

 Chapter 652 - 369_2

    This was precisely why Qiu Tu had rushed to the Xinjie Territory as soon as he wrapped up affairs in the real world, to refine the last bit of the Central Hub area!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu no longer delayed.


    Using the power of the Central Hub, he altered the terrain and dug out a cavity beneath the swamp, into which he slowly submerged himself.


    Afterward, he reserved other channels for ventilation, and finally, he filled in the large pit.


    With that, all preparations were complete, and even if Zhou Bing did come searching, they would not find him.


    Having done all this, Qiu Tu took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and looked inwardly at his own stomach area.


    That watery mass of the Central Hub still quietly hovered there in Qiu Tu''s stomach.


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu reined in his emotions and silently concentrated Cataclysmic Power, beginning to refine the last part of the Central Hub.


    Time ticked by, second by second...


    It was uncertain how much time had passed. Perhaps an hour, or maybe a whole night...


    Just as Qiu Tu was fully immersed in the Refining Area Center,


    Suddenly, he felt a "snap!" a crisp sound!


    It was as if... he had punctured a layer of film.


    In that instant, Qiu Tu felt his consciousness drift far away. He seemed to be flying higher and higher, soaring above the entire Xinjie Territory.


    Floating above the Xinjie Territory, Qiu Tu felt as if his whole being had changed.


    He felt as if he had truly become a Deity of the entire region.


    Where his heart led, the area seemed to transform in accordance with his will.


    Whatever he wanted, the region would manifest for him.


    Terrain, Life, everything in this area belonged to him.


    He was the God of the entire region, and all living creatures within it were his subjects...


    And what was more important... his presence began to spread, quickly moving from one corner of the region toward


    -----------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then undid the sash tied around her waist.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing to Qiu Tu''s view a body as immaculate as white jade, exquisitely carved and polished.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted, in that moment, his heartbeat seemed to have sped up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a respectable person. And besides, he still had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to the book titled "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then he kept reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the significance of "Existence" lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking this exceedingly vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leapt out of bed, and amid Fang Tangtang''s gasp, swept her up in his arms and pressed her onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling the dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fiercely battled till midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to have truly immersed herself in the role of a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed her frown lightly several times, the "injuries" from yesterday obviously not fully healed, yet she still earnestly swayed her body, keeping in rhythm with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized just how soft and comfortable one''s own Facial Cleanser could be...


    ''Facial Cleanser really is the best when it''s self-use,'' he thought.


    With that idea, Qiu Tu shared all he could with Fang Tangtang, imparting wisdom and solving her confusions...


    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he had a quota for taking lives.


    She didn''t quite understand what that feeling was.


    It was just extremely comfortable...


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to ponder.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off the bath towel from her body, and descended upon her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation entirely different from any she had with Liu Fu...


    That distinctly different pleasure made her want to press her shoulder against Qiu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth several times, trying to call a halt.


    But Qiu had one hand gripping her front, the other pressing her shoulder, leaving her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei with no chance to resist.


    Especially... every time she felt like she couldn''t take it anymore and wanted to kick Qiu off, he would lean down to her ear and whisper in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    In that moment, Tang Feifei truly experienced a sense of being conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, as someone who has always been competitive from a young age, she could not accept such a one-sided thrashing!


    Several times she wanted to revolt and sing the song of the farmer turned lord!


    But... she was after all a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, throughout the entire day and night, she really didn''t take the initiative to touch Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him... Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She just exerted herself in silence!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had indeed put in considerable Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that if he wanted to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei relentlessly, hardly allowing her a moment''s rest!


    And so, they struggled on until deep into the night, only then falling asleep in each other''s arms, while by this time, the 200-square-meter resting room and every chamber had long been marked by the signs of their battle...


    As he was slipping into a drowsy sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected inwardly: Tang Feifei was truly strong! And truly wild!


    If it weren''t for his promotion to Cataclysmic status and the immense strengthening of his body, as well as forbidding Tang Feifei to turn the tables,


    He suspected... he would need to retire his back after this ordeal...


    [4 days and a half (Yin Caimei case closed)]


    [1 and a half days (danger in the dark)]

 Chapter 653 - 369_3

    ```


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first ray of morning sunlight,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    Conditioned to rub his eyes upon waking, he merely raised his hand only to feel a sore and aching sensation in his arms and back!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu sucked in a breath of cold air, then became fully alert amidst the soreness as he checked his arms, belatedly recalling yesterday''s achievements that lasted from dawn till night.


    Thinking of his laborious efforts from the day before, and Tang Feifei, who was equally exerted to the brink of collapse, he silently lit a candle for his backbone...


    Feeling like it was probably beyond recovery.


    With that in thought, he shifted his thighs slightly, and the soreness shot straight to his head. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Forget it, I''ll light another candle for Yue Kuaye too, probably a goner as well...''


    Quietly lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battles, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, only to realize that he was alone, with just the faint scent of jasmine left behind.


    Although he had long known that it was all just a transaction between them, Qiu Tu couldn''t help feeling a tinge of disappointment in that moment.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there should be some acknowledgment of the hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like flipping a face and failing to recognize someone!''


    And just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Barefoot, barelegged, and bare-bodied, Tang Feifei walked in carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long; her body, with curves that hinted at an endless explosive power and resilience.


    With each step she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard sprinting stealthily through the jungle, each move filled with strength and rhythm.


    She came to Qiu Tu''s side, bent down to place the medicine, and said coolly, "Drink this. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... ''If the Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan comes to fruition, the establishment of the Dongye State Council might be advanced again.


    Then, he might soon face a direct threat from Huang Shangzong.


    Thus, Qiu Tu had to elevate his position and strengthen his influence as much as possible before that happened,


    Among the vice ministers of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belonged to the Iron-Blood Faction, Zhou Jingfu to the Reformist Faction, and Meng Sanzhai to the Fengtian Faction.


    According to the intelligence provided by Yan Chen, apart from Meng Sanzhai, the other two shouldn''t have any connection with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking thus, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting by his side, who was from the Free Democracy Faction¡ªagain, seemingly unrelated to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four of them supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, it was Meng Sanzhai of the Fengtian Faction who was the most laid-back, merely showing support for Qiu Tu without much talk.


    Truly befitting of an Evil God, his words always made others comfortable.


    Beauty is a bone-scraping knife, but as everyone knows, we People of Zhejiang are born with tough bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly is what makes driving exciting, sis is a bit impatient though.


    Mountains are the exceedingly slow waves of the geological eras.


    Beauty, huh? Not sure, it''s just flowers blooming in their prime, and it''d seem like I lack appreciation for sentiment if I didn''t admire them.


    Thinking this, after successfully boosting Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu decided not to engage further with Larilo.


    ------


    "In order to comply with the procedures, and to avoid any complications, we immediately apprehended Eagle after the Speaker officially took office."


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him somewhat strangely, and then asked, "Chief... You don''t seem surprised by this intelligence at all?"


    She asked doubtfully, "Don''t you find this information important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing what Guan Xiao said, Qiu Tu laughed. He nodded and replied, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has made significant contributions and indeed deserves a good commendation."


    "Once this case is cracked and all these United Front Special Warfare Squad members have been neutralized, I will commend you to the higher-ups."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao gave him a penetrating look with her seductive eyes, and then said, "Chief... I''m not sure if it''s just an illusion."


    "I always feel... like you knew about the Alliance Special Forces Members before I did?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu casually leaned on the chair and responded with a light smile, "Oh?"


    "That..."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Qiu Tu''s response made Guan Xiao widen her eyes slightly.


    Having spent years in the intelligence system learning and working, Guan Xiao had developed an instinctual ability and habit to gather information and was particularly sensitive to emotional nuances.


    So, when she finished reporting the intelligence on the Alliance Special Warfare Squad and Qiu Tu showed no sign of shock or urgency, she keenly detected something unusual.


    However, although her intuition told her that Qiu Tu might also be aware of this intelligence, her rationality would not believe it.


    After all, her intelligence was painstakingly passed on by spies at the risk of their lives.


    How could Qiu Tu know?


    Just then,


    each bone, each blood vessel, each muscle and the fine spiritual power channels became increasingly distinct, like stars sprinkling the night sky, twinkling with dazzling light. These spiritual power channels not only boosted his physical strength but also enabled more efficient absorption and utilization of external spiritual power.


    Nourished by spiritual power, his muscles became more resilient and powerful, as if containing the weight of mountains and the agility of rivers. Every movement Lin Yi made caused the air to tremble slightly, a minor manifestation of the power leaking from within him. Even more astonishing was that his bones seemed to be reforged during the ascension process, becoming denser and more robust, capable of withstanding greater Impact Forces.


    Change of the Soul


    Compared to his body, Lin Yi''s soul underwent an even more profound transformation. His will...


    Phenomena of Nature


    As Lin Yi''s advancement deepened, phenomena began to occur in the heavens and earth. The once calm sky suddenly churned with wind and cloud, darkened by dense storm clouds, as if something momentous was about to unfold. Thunder roared, lighting streaked across the sky, and each flash was accompanied by a massive surge of energy.


    ```

 Chapter 654 - 370: Clone of the Evil God! (Congratulations to

    Hearing Xie Yue''s words, Whale Shark slowly calmed down.


    His long and sharp eyes looked down at Xie Yue beside him, "Tang Feifei...?"


    Xie Yue was an Evil God whose appearance closely resembled that of a human little boy. He was only about one meter forty in height, small in stature. His face, pale as a sheet of paper, lacked vitality, giving him a somewhat eerie look.


    Furthermore, it was unclear whether he was born with this appearance or if it was related to his Cataclysmic ability, as his gaze was empty and lacked spirit, as if soulless.


    Hearing Whale Shark''s question, Xie Yue emotionlessly nodded. His unfocused eyes responded, "Yes, Tang Feifei. She is that Third-Order Peak martial arts Catastrophist."


    "Moreover, if I remember correctly, she is also the direct granddaughter of Old Man Tang, the core future figure cultivated by the Fengtian Faction."


    "She is not easy to deal with."


    Upon hearing Xie Yue''s words, Whale Shark let out a cold "hehe" laugh, "What bullshit direct granddaughter! Future core!"


    "In my eyes, she''s just an ordinary human!"


    "She dares to snatch my position as Domain Master, she should be prepared to bear the price of my anger!"


    With that said, he smoothed his hair.


    He was quite tall, about two meters and fifty centimeters, and broad-shouldered with a wide waist, like an iron tower.


    But his deep blue hair, which contrasted with his disposition, gave him a playful demeanor as it floated like seaweed in the water.


    At this moment, after ridiculing Tang Feifei, it was as if he remembered something and suddenly blurted out, "Wait a minute."


    "Tang Feifei announced this morning that she became the Domain Master, a Fourth-Order Disaster Changer."


    "But it wasn''t until tonight that the Xinjie Territory was taken over."


    Upon hearing Whale Shark''s words, Xie Yue, with his vacant gaze, reasoned, "That''s actually understandable."


    "She must have already reached Third-Order Peak long ago. She just needed some resources to break through."


    "And Refining the Area Center takes some time. She might have been quietly refining for quite some time."


    "And had already nearly crossed the threshold."


    "And in the past two days, she obtained those resources she needed to break through to Fourth-Order. Seizing the chance of the Fourth-Order impact, she accelerated the Refining of the Area Center!"


    "In this way, once she breaks through to Fourth-Order, she can immediately draw on the power reserved for the Domain Master and reach the extreme peak of Peak Fourth Rank!"


    Having said that, Xie Yue reached out and scratched his pale, paper-like face, emotionlessly saying, "Do you remember... that Monkey that was leaping up and down the other day?"


    Upon hearing Xie Yue''s words, Whale Shark nodded.


    Xie Yue said, "I now suspect... that Monkey was actually Tang Feifei."


    "She used some kind of transformational Cataclysmic treasure to change her appearance deliberately, provoking us by kite flying within the Xinjie District."


    "One reason is, as long as she is in the Xinjie District, she can continuously Refine the Area Center."


    "The second is, she can disrupt our Refining of the Leyline Nodes'' timing."


    Hearing Xie Yue''s words, Whale Shark nodded thoughtfully.


    He felt that Xie Yue''s analysis was very likely.


    Identifying the enemy who spoiled his plans, Whale Shark''s square face became twisted and ferocious.


    With a cruel grin, he said, "Now that we''ve found the enemy, let''s go meet her!"


    Done talking, he picked up the one meter forty Xie Yue and placed him on his shoulder.


    Then he strode towards an Array he had set up.


    On the way to the Array, Xie Yue, with his pale face and vacant eyes, asked, "What do you plan to do?"


    "Now the Xinjie District already has an owner, unless we kill her, there seems to be no way to turn things around."


    "We don''t have Zhao Ji''s ability to forcibly infiltrate a region."


    Hearing this, Whale Shark bared his sharp, spike-like teeth with a grin.


    "I don''t plan to reverse the situation. But it''s not that easy for a human to become a Regional Controller."


    "If it were so simple, then those few human Fourth-Order Disaster Changers could just join forces, attack a weak Fourth-Order Evil God, seize the Region, and Refine it, right?"


    "She can become the Regional Controller, but she still has to pass the test! Hehehe...."


    With Whale Shark''s boastful laughter, his and Xie Yue''s figures slowly vanished within that Array.


    Simultaneously, the world inverted.


    In Xinjie City, the Military, City Hall, a burly man and a little boy slowly opened their eyes...


    After a moment, at the Longshan Road villa area, an Elder also slowly opened his eyes...


    ...


    At the same time, Qiu Tu remained unaware of the plot conceived by Whale Shark and Xie Yue to sabotage "Tang Feifei''s" ascent as the Xinjie Regional Controller.


    At that moment, after he had finished studying the information from the "World Origin," he also began slowly to receive the enhancements of the "Xinjie District" to his strength.


    That sensation was very peculiar...


    It was as if, outside of his body, he suddenly had an invisible, intangible "Clone," or "Positional Frame."


    That "Clone" or "Positional Frame" seemed able to directly augment his strength. But yet... it wasn''t him.


    He could use the power within, could even merge with this "Clone" "False Frame," turning it directly into his own strength! S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... there was always a barrier.


    Though it was relatively smooth and convenient to use, he could distinctly sense that it was not his power, but rather "borrowed."


    And more importantly, his "Clone" and "False Frame" did not instantly boost his powers completely.


    Instead, it was growing slowly yet steadily.


    At first, the enhancement to Qiu Tu was not substantial, but after an hour, Qiu Tu felt as though his "total" strength had grown considerably.

 Chapter 655 - 370: Clone of the Evil God! (Congratulations to

    Qiu Tu felt that, according to this pace, he would need about seven more days to reach the critical point for a Fourth-order Cataclysmic.


    He did a quick calculation of the time. Tang Feifei, although at the Third-Order Peak, was still a bit weaker than Liu Xiongyuan, who had been at that level for many years.


    Liu Xiongyuan took four days, so Tang Feifei would probably also take about six to seven days to fully advance.


    Calculating the time, it coincided exactly with his own advancement.


    In this way, alternating their advancements with her would also provide some support.


    However, what Qiu Tu didn''t quite understand was...


    If he advanced to a Fourth Order Cataclysmic through the Domain Master, then... would he also be considered a "Pseudo Fourth Order"?


    Qiu Tu still remembered what Tang Feifei had explained to him; the "pseudo" in Pseudo Fourth Order actually referred to solidifying a False Frame and storing Cataclysmic Power within it.


    Only when using it would it merge with the "False Frame" and unleash the power of a Fourth Order.


    This way, although there was a bit of danger to his power, it wouldn''t be influenced by the "Cataclysm Path."


    All in all, the benefits outweighed the drawbacks.


    But... others'' False Frames could at most increase their strength by a small order: from a Third-Order Peak to a Fourth Order.


    His own increase was from a Third Order directly to a Fourth Order¡ªa major leap.


    Moreover, for normal Pseudo Fourth Order Catacylysmics, both the "False Frame" and the Cataclysmic Power within were cultivated by themselves.


    Whereas Qiu Tu''s were entirely reciprocated from the Xinjie Territory, even the "False Frame" was provided by the Domain Master.


    Could this really be the same as the regular "Pseudo Fourth Order"?


    Since he had not yet advanced to Pseudo Fourth Order and couldn''t compare with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu could only temporarily suppress this doubt in his mind and prepare to verify it after seven days!


    Thinking this, he who had perfectly completed his mission today, directly flipped the world, leaving the Boundless Heart Sea and returned to reality. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Back in the real world, Qiu Tu glanced at the early warning and defense Cataclysmic Treasures to make sure they were functioning properly, then he packed up these two treasures and checked the time.


    Perhaps because everything had gone extremely smoothly,


    it was now only 10 p.m.


    Qiu Tu hesitated for a moment, then decided to go and check on Shen Lingshuang.


    Before participating in the Dare-to-Die Team mission, Qiu Tu had returned to Shen Lingshuang''s place


    and had given her all the Cataclysmic Material he had got from the "Crisis Treasure Box" the previous time.


    He wasn''t sure if there were any finished products now.


    With these thoughts, Qiu Tu directly left the resting room, taking Tan Huimin with him out of the Investigation Bureau Building.


    Sitting in the passenger seat of the car, Qiu Tu caressed Tan Huimin''s thigh while admiring the night view of Xinjie City.


    Although Commissioner Jiang lacked a bit in fighting capability, he had the skills needed to govern.


    At some point, all the potholes in Xinjie City had been mended, and street lamps had been erected along the roadsides.


    Though the lighting was still dim, it had gained a sense of the city.


    The car drove all the way to Longshan Road and stopped in front of Shen Lingshuang''s villa.


    Stepping out of the car, Qiu Tu looked up at the villa.


    At that moment, the villa was still lit. Under the bright lights, a small, slender figure seemed to be busily tapping away at something.


    She moved up, down, left, right¡ªlooking both hardworking and busy.


    Qiu Tu quietly watched from outside for a while, then stepped forward and walked in.


    Just as he entered the yard, Qiu Tu heard fierce barking, "Woof woof woof!"


    The next second, a white blur darted towards him!


    It was Shen Lingshuang''s pet dog, Xiao Bai.


    In the past, Qiu Tu might have been a bit flustered by Xiao Bai, but now, he felt utterly unflustered.


    After all... he had even ridden a dragon, why would he fear a dog?


    So, Qiu Tu swiftly reached out and in the next second, Xiao Bai was scooped up in his arms.


    Xiao Bai struggled a bit in Qiu Tu''s hands but seeing he couldn''t break free, his body gradually became soft like rubber and even flowed right out of Qiu Tu''s hands...


    Seeing this scene, Qiu Tu was startled and reflexively thought to throw Xiao Bai away.


    Just at that moment, possibly hearing the noise inside, Shen Lingshuang pushed open the villa door and called out, "Xiao Bai! Xiao Bai! Are you okay? Did that person come again?"


    But when the door opened, what caught her eyes was the person she had been dreaming of...


    At that moment, her world seemed to consist only of the man before her.


    At that instant, Qiu Tu''s Little Canary, Young Pharmacist, Props Workshop, Little Tsundere, and Little Housekeeper... her eyes instantly reddened...


    ...


    At the same time, just as Qiu Tu met Shen Lingshuang,


    at the Investigation Bureau, Political Department, Intelligence Work Group.


    The newly appointed Deputy Director of the Political Department, Guan Xiao, was leading the intelligence team, working overtime.


    This woman could be said to be one of the smartest women Qiu Tu had ever seen.


    Previously, she had thought Qiu Tu was a womanizer, so she was single-mindedly trying to climb into his bed.


    But today, having come into close contact with Qiu Tu and seeing his attitude, she suddenly realized... her beauty was just a stepping stone, what Qiu Tu valued more was her capability.


    Thus, she immediately shifted her focus and started to work wholeheartedly.


    And the first task Qiu Tu assigned to her: to find out who the Whale Shark and Xie Yue had possessed or who their clones were in Xinjie City, was her way to prove her capabilities to Qiu Tu!

 Chapter 656 - 370: Clone of the Evil God! (Congratulations to

    So, today, she had led her entire work group through several tasks.


    The first task was to calculate the time the Whale Shark and Xie Yue entered Xinjie City based on several celestial anomalies.


    The second task was to gather intelligence and data from the Espionage Section and Intelligence Section by this determined time, looking for useful clues or suspicious individuals. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The third task was to further dispatch spies or intelligence personnel based on the identities of the suspects.


    And now, they had progressed to the third step.


    Holding a list of key suspect names, Guan Xiao formed several investigation teams and set them out on their inquiries.


    As for herself, she too was assigned to an investigation team.


    This team consisted of only two individuals, one was her and the other was Cat Girl Loli Miao Xiaoxiao...


    Their investigation target was the Deputy Director of Civil Affairs Wu Baocai and other... six-year-old children.


    They drove to the home of Wu Baocai.


    Guan Xiao, while driving, glanced at the co-pilot seat beside her, at Miao Xiaoxiao with the perked-up black tail, and said teasingly, "Meow meow~ you don''t seem very happy."


    Upon hearing this, Miao Xiaoxiao looked at her, puzzled, then shook her head and said, "No."


    She tilted her head, thinking a bit dully, "Maybe it''s... having suddenly switched jobs, I feel a bit idle."


    Previously, Qiu Tu had promoted Miao Xiaoxiao, making her the Deputy Staff of the Intelligence Section.


    As the Intelligence Department''s deputy, Miao Xiaoxiao naturally didn''t need to spy on the front lines anymore. That''s why she had some free time.


    Hearing Miao Xiaoxiao''s words, Guan Xiao chuckled and said, "Isn''t it good to be a bit idle? So many brothers and sisters are envious of your successful promotion, no longer having to live a life licking blood off knife edges."


    "If you''re feeling idle..."


    As she said this, she paused, then flashed a mischievous smile, "Why not go find a man to play around with?"


    "A man?" Miao Xiaoxiao clearly didn''t quite understand.


    Guan Xiao grinned mischievously and pointed at Miao Xiaoxiao''s lower body, "In all these years, no one has touched your Demon''s Eye, have they?"


    Miao Xiaoxiao, a pure Little Loli, couldn''t possibly keep pace with Guan Xiao''s speed.


    She looked blankly at Guan Xiao, receiving only Guan Xiao''s "teeheehee" bad big sister laughter in return.


    "Seems like our little kitty still hasn''t gotten ''through'' it yet."


    Miao Xiaoxiao''s expression turned even more bewildered: ??


    And so, with one person driving crazily and one nearly squished to death yet blissfully unaware, they arrived near Deputy Director Wu''s villa.


    After parking, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao carefully got out of the car.


    They split up, with Miao Xiaoxiao fast shrinking in size, momentarily transforming into a black cat, then snuck past the bodyguards and infiltrated the villa.


    Meanwhile, Guan Xiao climbed up to the rooftop of a nearby building, found a suitable spot, and took out a specially made thermal imaging telescope to observe the situation inside the villa.


    At the moment, everything seemed normal inside the villa.


    It might have been because it was already 11 p.m. The lights inside Deputy Director Wu''s house were off, and it was pitch-dark. Looking through the telescope, the entire Wu family seemed to have gone to bed.


    Only... his six-year-old son appeared to have just gotten up for a night errand, his pale face rubbing his eyes as he walked out of the bathroom...


    Intelligence work, by nature, was dry and tedious.


    99% of the time is spent waiting or engaging in fruitless activities, only pursuing the critical 1% of the time when the target reveals key information.


    Hence, Guan Xiao did not rush but patiently continued to wait.


    However... what she didn''t notice.


    As soon as she and Miao Xiaoxiao got out of the car... a white eye opened silently on the wall where the vehicle was parked, quietly glanced at them, and then slowly closed. It was just like... the crescent moon in the sky...


    -------


    Thanks to "Chenyi Sain" for the 100,000 reward, congratulations on becoming our book''s Alliance Hierarch! Boss is awesome! Make a fortune!

 Chapter 657 - 371

    The sky seemed gently covered by a layer of profound gray silk, the moonlight clear and soft, casting a blue radiance upon the earth.


    Beneath the shroud of nightfall on Longshan Road, within the living room of Shen Lingshuang''s villa.


    Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang sat opposite each other.


    Shen Lingshuang cradled the chubby Xiao Bai in her arms, pursing her lips as she stroked the dog''s fur.


    Meanwhile, Qiu Tu sat across from her, exhibiting no signs of discomfort.


    Being a scumbag is just like being a con artist, you should have the basic professional ethics: no ethics...


    If a woman feels aggrieved, sad, heartbroken, you become tender-hearted. Then...


    What about the other women? You simply couldn''t allocate your time to them all.


    Who wouldn''t want to monopolize all of a man''s time?


    So, faced with Shen Lingshuang''s deliberate show of anger, Qiu Tu remained incredibly calm.


    Shen Lingshuang said nothing, and he followed suit.


    Shen Lingshuang petted the dog, and Qiu Tu... caressed Shen Lingshuang''s leg.


    It was only after Shen Lingshuang''s waist softened from Qiu Tu''s touching and her face flushed red that she could no longer hold back.


    Her face reddened as she glared at Qiu Tu, "You, you, you''re really shameless!"


    "Just touching without saying a word!"


    At this moment, Qiu Tu looked up at her in feigned bewilderment, "Ah? You didn''t speak, I thought you liked it."


    Shen Lingshuang glared at Qiu Tu, then retracted her slender legs and sat down on her cute bottom.


    Then, still pouting cutely, she said, "I just can''t be bothered to deal with you."


    She muttered under her breath, "Previously, you released me from the Public Security Office, tricking me into thinking you were giving me freedom. But in reality, you had me concoct the ''Cataclysmic Awakening Potion.''"


    "After I finished the potion, you left me at home, for over ten days at a time."


    "Then, you started to get the wrong idea, touching and kissing me, and even... using your leg..."


    "And after that, you were gone again for half a month."


    "Just when I thought you were back, you dumped a pile of Cataclysmic Materials and left without speaking much."


    "And then you vanished again for another ten days."


    "I have no idea what you consider me. Your personal alchemist? Your personal forger? A little nanny at home?"


    Women are creatures who often don''t mean what they say.


    If they are truly angry, they would ignore you outright or simply leave.


    But when they start to talk, it mostly means they''ve calmed down quite a bit.


    So, despite how much Shen Lingshuang prattled on, it proved that she still wanted to properly interact with Qiu Tu.


    So, Qiu Tu took the opportunity to climb up the stick.


    He plopped down next to Shen Lingshuang, shooing Xiao Bai to the ground, then wrapped his arms around Shen Lingshuang''s shoulders and reassured her, "I''ve been busy..."


    "I''ve handled several big cases recently and took down a few enemies."


    "My position keeps getting higher."


    Speaking of this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but boast a little, "Guess, what is my position now?"


    The last time Qiu Tu had shared his position with Shen Lingshuang, he was just the Deputy Head of the Political Department.


    In a short span of time, he had climbed the ranks again, and so he presumed Shen Lingshuang would never guess.


    Yet to his surprise, Shen Lingshuang pouted, glanced at Qiu Tu, and said haughtily, "What else could it be?"


    "Acting Bureau Chief, of course."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, then looked at Shen Lingshuang in surprise, "You already know?"


    The young girl leaned lightly on Qiu Tu''s shoulder and said coyly, "Of course, I know."


    "After you became the Head of the Political Department, I suddenly had many friends around me."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but look at her.


    Perhaps it was the age of growth. Not having been in contact with the girl for over a month, she seemed to have grown a bit more.


    Though still somewhat green, her eyes and brows had taken on a few more traces of a woman''s charm. Her large eyes, still clear, contained a hint of the melancholy of a young girl in love.


    Perhaps having just bathed, her jet-black, lustrous hair draped over Qiu Tu''s shoulder, carrying a light fragrance. Occasionally, a few strands tickled Qiu Tu''s cheek, causing an itching sensation. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Friends? What friends?"


    Shen Lingshuang stretched out her hand, counting off on her delicate fingers, "Neighbor Aunt Wang. Aunt Liu across the way. Sister Tian who likes to do handcrafts. Sister Xie who loves cooking¡­"


    "So many."


    Qiu Tu was taken aback, "They are all...?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded and precociously said, "They''re all people who want to curry favor with you."


    Her eyes gleamed, "Longshan Road was previously the center of power in Xinjie City. After the Sanctuary arrived, they all lost their influence."


    "So, they want to hitch their wagon to a new person of influence, to recover their former glory."


    "And you... an executive from the Investigation Bureau and a local of Xinjie City, obviously became their prime target."


    Saying this, Shen Lingshuang continued, "Of course¡­ they did not expect your rise to happen so swiftly."


    "So, their gradual plans got a bit disrupted. When they came to see me, the changes in their expressions were almost too obvious to hide."


    "So... after a few probing questions, I was able to find everything out~~" Saying this, Shen Lingshuang pouted smugly.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu glanced at Shen Lingshuang in his arms in surprise.


    To be honest... although Qiu Tu had long known that Shen Lingshuang was smart and understood many things because of her family background.


    But perhaps because her potion refining seemed unreliable, he had never considered her to be a dependable assistant.


    But... just by interacting with those from Longshan Road and The Five Elders, she was able to guess so much insider information and even extract so much information.


    Qiu Tu suddenly had a refreshed impression of her ¡ª this young lady seemed to have something. Worth developing...


    Conveniently, Qiu Tu had already become the Deputy Director and was serving as Acting Bureau Chief. His responsibilities were ever-growing, and he needed more assistants to lend him a hand.

 Chapter 658 - 371_2

    Tan Huimin, although attentive, gentle, and considerate, was after all, a housewife, and somewhat lacking in capability.


    Being a personal secretary, warming the bed, driving; she was fine for these tasks. But she fell short when it came to helping Qiu Tu.


    But... Shen Lingshuang was a different story. With some nurturing,


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s gaze involuntarily landed on Shen Lingshuang.


    Perhaps... Shen Lingshuang could give it a try?


    At this moment, Shen Lingshuang was unaware of Qiu Tu''s thoughts. She leaned against Qiu Tu, twirling a strand of her hair and gently sliding it around his neck, coyly saying,


    "But... Qiu Tu, the higher the position, the more careful you must be."


    "My father once said, ''Politics... it''s like a bunch of monkeys climbing a tree, when you look up, all you see are buttocks; when you look down, all you see are smiling faces.''


    "The higher your position, the more you find that everyone around you is good."


    "They hold you up, praise you, flatter you. Gradually... you start to become arrogant, begin to believe you are omnipotent, thinking you can accomplish everything."


    "Eventually, you fall from the sky to the ground."


    "So... the higher the position, the more you need to learn ''self-restraint'', only by learning to control and restrain yourself..."


    The young girl, with the purest of tones, delivered the profoundest of truths, making Qiu Tu, while startled, also resolutely make up his mind.


    He suddenly sat up, then pulled Shen Lingshuang out from his embrace and looked her in the eyes, "Ling Shuang, why don''t you come to the Investigation Bureau to help me?"


    Shen Lingshuang was still tickling Qiu Tu with her hair. Suddenly hearing Qiu Tu discuss such important matters, she was startled, then quickly shook her head, "I, I can''t."


    Qiu Tu said seriously, "No worries, I believe you can help me."


    ----------


    -----


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then undid her waist tie.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing a body before Qiu Tu, sculpted as if from white jade.


    Qiu Tu:.....


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heart seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Plus, he still had that philosophical work to read tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then continued reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the meaning of ''Existence'' is in Cao currency!''


    Thinking this extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu jumped off the bed and, amid Fang Tangtang''s scream, scooped her up and pressed her onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling darkness to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang battled until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to really throw herself into the role of a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed her furrow her brows several times ¨C her "wound" from yesterday clearly hadn''t fully healed ¨C but she continued earnestly swaying her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable tough facial cleanser can be...


    ''Really, no facial cleanser beats your own!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also generously imparted all he knew to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her...


    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he already had the quota to "end a life."


    She didn''t quite understand that sensation.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable....


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, tore off her bath towel, and pounced!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never felt before...


    That completely different pleasure made her several times try to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s aggressive moves, attempting to call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu was grabbing her from the front, one hand pressing down on her shoulders, making her feel like a fish out of water, flipping in vain.


    That domineering attitude made it almost impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially... each time she couldn''t take it any longer and wanted to kick Qiu Tu away, he would lean close to her ear and murmur in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the contract?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, being strong-willed as she had always been, she couldn''t accept this one-sided "beating!" sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Several times she wanted to turn the tables and give voice to her discomfort!


    But... she was after all, a person of her word.


    Thus... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too rashly, that day and night, she really didn''t initiate any contact with Qiu Tu nor did she resist him....


    She was merely gritting her teeth.


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew, to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei without giving her much chance to rest!


    Thus, they struggled until deep into the night before finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, and by then, that 200-square-meter lounge, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was nearly falling asleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei is indeed tough! And really wild!


    If it weren''t for his promotion to a Cataclysmic, allowing his body substantial enhancement, plus preventing Tang Feifei from taking the upper hand...


    He guessed... after this wave, his back would probably have to retire.....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (dangers in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of dawn,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    Instinctively wanting to rub his eyes, he just lifted his hand and immediately felt his arms and back sore!

 Chapter 659 - 371_3

    ```


    "Sss!"


    Qiu Tu sucked in a cool breath, then woke up amidst the soreness, checking his arm before belatedly recalling the glorious battle achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking back to how he worked so hard yesterday, head down and toiling away, and to Tang Feifei, who was nearly broken from the ordeal, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    It felt as if his back would never be of use again.


    With this thought in mind, he slightly moved his thigh, and the soreness shot straight to the crown of his head.


    "Let''s light one for Yue Kua as well, he''s probably done for too..."


    While silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, then realized that the spot beside him had long been vacated, leaving nothing but the faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he had always known that their relationship was nothing more than a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    "Shouldn''t there be some credit given for hard work?"


    "This is too much like turning one''s back and not recognizing someone!"


    And just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, barelegged, bare-bodied, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, her body curving elegantly as if containing infinite explosive power and resilience.


    Walking with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard quietly sprinting through the jungle, each step full of power and rhythm.


    Arriving next to Qiu Tu, she bent down to place the medicine, then spoke coldly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... with the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" once completed, the inauguration of the Dongye State Council could be moved up again.


    By then, he would likely have to face the threat of Huang Shangzong directly.


    So, Qiu Tu must increase his position and strengthen his power as much as possible, before that happens.


    Among the deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is from the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu is from the "Reformist Faction," and Meng Sanzhai is from the "Fengtian Faction."


    These three people, according to the information provided by Yan Chen, should have nothing to do with Qiu Tu except for Meng Sanzhai.


    With this thought, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting next to him; Ouyang Heng was from the "Free Democracy Faction" and even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among them, Meng Sanzhai from the "Fengtian Faction" was the most Buddhist, supporting Qiu Tu in gesture more than in speech.


    Not for nothing is he called an Evil God, able to make others comfortable with just a word.


    Beauty is a bone-cutting knife, but as it is well known, we people from Zhejiang are born with tough bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly is what makes driving exciting, sis seems a bit impatient, huh?


    Mountains are the extremely slow waves from a geological era.


    Beauty? Not sure, but when the flowers bloom so brilliantly, not admiring them would seem almost like I don''t appreciate the finer things. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking this, after successfully raising Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu didn''t bother with her anymore.


    ------


    "In order to comply with procedure and to avoid any lengthy complications, as soon as the Speaker officially takes office, we immediately went ahead to arrest Eagle."


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him somewhat puzzled before asking, "Sir... You don''t seem at all surprised by this intelligence?"


    She asked with a hint of confusion, "Don''t you think this intelligence is important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "You''re right, Section Chief Guan."


    "The Intelligence Section has made such a great contribution; it indeed deserves a proper commendation."


    "Once this case is cracked and these members of the United Front Special Combat Team have been eliminated, I will make a request to the higher-ups to recognize your achievements."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao''s attractive, seductive eyes took a deep look at Qiu Tu, then she said, "Sir... I don''t know if it''s just an illusion."


    "I always feel... like you knew about the United Front Special Combat Team before me?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu simply leaned back in his chair and responded with a faint smile, "Is that so?"


    "Well..."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Qiu Tu''s response widened Guan Xiao''s eyes slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao had long developed the ability and habit to gather intelligence at any time. This also made her particularly sensitive to certain emotional cues.


    So when she had finished reporting the intelligence on the United Front Special Warfare Squad, and Qiu Tu showed neither shock nor urgency, she had keenly detected something off.


    But, although her intuition told her that Qiu Tu might also know this intelligence, rationally she found it hard to believe.


    After all, her intelligence was brought out by spies at great pain and risk to their lives.


    How could Qiu Tu know it?


    And at that moment,


    Each bone, each blood vessel, each muscle''s subtle spiritual power pathways became gradually clearer, like stars dotting the night sky, twinkling with dazzling light. These spiritual power pathways not only strengthened his physical body but also enabled him to absorb and manipulate external spiritual power more efficiently.


    His muscles became tougher and more powerful under the nourishment of spiritual power, as if containing the weight of mountains and the fluidity of rivers. Whenever Lin Yi moved, the air would tremble slightly with his actions, a minor manifestation of his internal power leaking out. Even more astonishing was that his bones seemed to be reforged in the promotion process, becoming denser and tougher, able to withstand greater impact forces.


    Change of the Soul


    Compared with the body''s transformation, Lin Yi''s soul underwent an even more profound metamorphosis. His will,


    Phenomena


    As Lin Yi continued to advance, phenomena also began to emerge between heaven and earth. Originally compared with the body''s transformation, Lin Yi''s soul metamorphosis was even more profound. His will,


    Phenomena


    As Lin Yi continued to advance, phenomena also began to emerge between heaven and earth. Originally


    ```

 Chapter 660 - 372: Womens War (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    Possibly because she was too scared, Guan Xiao''s hands trembled and she pressed the wrong keys several times. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It took several attempts to finally edit the message before she sent it out.


    Once she had done all that, Guan Xiao slumped into her seat as if she had just completed a major life event, gasping for air with her ample chest heaving dramatically.


    If someone had happened to pass by her car window at that moment, they would have found her face covered in sweat and her back drenched.


    Clearly... her fear had not just lasted a moment or two, but quite a long time.


    In her arms, the black cat form of Miao Xiaoxiao cocked its head to look at her, then spoke blankly, "Sister Xiao, is something wrong?"


    Guan Xiao uttered a sound of acknowledgment, then said, "Wait a moment for me, let me catch my breath."


    As she spoke, her hand tremblingly touched Miao Xiaoxiao.


    Understanding, Miao Xiaoxiao nodded its cat head and then jumped to the passenger seat, sitting quietly. Its pair of orange-yellow cat eyes watched Guan Xiao with concern.


    After resting like this for over ten minutes, Guan Xiao finally seemed to truly recover and slowly sat upright in the chair.


    She took out a handkerchief to wipe the sweat from her face, then touched her face and looked at the black cat on the passenger seat, asking, "Meow meow, is my makeup smudged?"


    "I have to meet the Bureau Chief later, so I need to maintain a good image."


    Miao Xiaoxiao cocked its head to look carefully for a moment, then replied, "It''s not smudged."


    Guan Xiao sighed in relief, then started the car, heading towards the Investigation Bureau Building while explaining to Miao Xiaoxiao.


    She said seriously, "Actually... last night, just after I arrived near Deputy Director Wu''s house, I felt something was amiss."


    "You know about my Cataclysmic ability."


    The obedient black cat sitting in the passenger seat nodded slightly, "A mother bug that connects with your bloodline."


    "Through that mother bug, you can control small animals like insects and birds, and communicate with them."


    Guan Xiao nodded. Her ability wasn''t actually very powerful, it was even... a bit weak. It had almost no combat capability.


    But, if used in the intelligence system, it was extremely powerful.


    Many people, including the Cataclysmics, would pay attention to humans or medium to large animals, but they often overlooked small insects and birds.


    Guan Xiao thus used the mother bug to control birds and insects, mainly insects... to infiltrate City Hall, Investigation Bureau, The Military, gathering intelligence from various departments.


    This was the reason why the Intelligence Section''s work was so outstanding and why her personal intelligence capability was so strong. (Chapter 325)


    She had previously been able to know Qiu Tu''s whereabouts as if they were at her fingertips, even knowing the moment Qiu Tu arrived at the office and then followed up immediately, all because of this reason. (Chapter 335)


    The reason she initially uncovered Miao Xiaoxiao... was also because she inadvertently learned from the "mouths" of insects and birds about a strange black cat in Xinjie City.


    Afterward, she became a bit curious, went to look specifically, and that''s how she met Miao Xiaoxiao...


    Thus, her cooperation with Miao Xiaoxiao had always involved one in the open and one in the shadows.


    Miao Xiaoxiao acted openly, while she gathered information secretly by controlling mosquitoes and birds.


    The two of them always worked together seamlessly.


    But... all this changed last night, after they arrived near Deputy Director Wu''s villa...


    Because Guan Xiao noticed that the insects near Deputy Director Wu''s home were extremely scarce.


    Even though it was already winter, it was frighteningly sparse¡ªthere weren''t even any insects or birds hibernating in the soil or crevices of walls...


    This was clearly suspicious.


    So, Guan Xiao used her controlled insects to scout around and try to "ask" the remaining insects and birds for the reason.


    The feedback she received was only fragmented emotions: fear, fleeing, afraid to approach.


    This further deepened Guan Xiao''s suspicions.


    So, she kept watching Deputy Director Wu''s home from outside with an infrared telescope, trying to see what was inside that made the insects and birds so afraid...


    But, she found no information or clues. This absence of clues only maximized her suspicions¡ªafter all, the absence of problems was itself the biggest problem!


    Hence, Guan Xiao was somewhat convinced that there was something wrong with Deputy Director Wu''s home.


    Just when Guan Xiao thought her Cataclysmic ability had once again proven useful and was preparing to call for reinforcements to further monitor Deputy Director Wu and his family!


    Suddenly, she received a warning from the mother bug!


    The mother bug told her that there was an unseen eye lurking behind her!


    This immediately caused her to break out in a cold sweat!


    She knew that she had hit the jackpot. She had actually encountered a clone of the Evil God!


    But she also knew that she had won too big of a prize! She and Miao Xiaoxiao might have been discovered by the Evil God''s clone as soon as they arrived in the area!


    Now, if she dared show any abnormality, the Evil God was very likely to eliminate her and Miao Xiaoxiao!


    So, her brain raced as she pondered how to break out of this dangerous situation.


    Eventually, she felt that she absolutely could not run away now, not abruptly retreat, nor show any signs of detecting the Evil God! She also couldn''t let Miao Xiaoxiao notice anything was amiss!


    Thus, she had to bring out her lifetime of acting skills, forcibly following the procedure of gathering intelligence, interacting with Miao Xiaoxiao.


    She told Miao Xiaoxiao that everything was normal and encouraged Miao Xiaoxiao to continue monitoring Deputy Director Wu''s entire family according to the plan!


    Meanwhile, she, filled with fear and dread, continued to observe from a nearby rooftop, watching alongside Miao Xiaoxiao all through the night...

 Chapter 661 - 372: Womens War (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    ```


    And it wasn''t until Deputy Director Wu left her home that she could finally breathe a sigh of relief, pretend to believe him, and send a message to Miao Xiaoxiao, instructing her to retreat.


    It was a torment that lasted until she had left the vicinity of Deputy Director Wu''s home!


    So, it was only after she had driven a few kilometers away that she shakily sent a text message to Qiu Tu.


    Not for any other reason but because she had been tormented the entire night, and the string in her heart was about to snap....


    She felt that not going insane was just a stroke of luck...


    Thinking thus, Guan Xiao relayed the entire mental journey of her last night to Miao Xiaoxiao.


    Miao Xiaoxiao listened seriously, and then, in her typical dazed manner, nodded and commented innocently, "That was really dangerous."


    She spoke without much emotion, but Guan Xiao wasn''t bothered by it.


    Guan Xiao had realized after digging into Miao Xiaoxiao''s background that perhaps due to her family environment and certain events, Miao Xiaoxiao seemed to have lost some emotions.


    Such as... the inability to empathize with others, not showing sadness, grief, or even lacking a sense of shame...


    It was because of these traits that she became such a trump card for Guan Xiao...


    And Miao Xiaoxiao''s traits somewhat matched Guan Xiao''s: Guan Xiao was emotionally rich and sentimental, and... also lacked a sense of shame.


    Hence, the two got along very well.


    With these thoughts about their past, Guan Xiao also drove Miao Xiaoxiao to the Investigation Bureau Office Building.


    On the way, she received a call from Qiu Tu who didn''t say much, only asking her to return to the Bureau and go directly to see Qiu Tu.


    So, after getting out of the car, she carried Miao Xiaoxiao in the elevator, heading straight to the Deputy Director''s office on the 12th floor.


    Upon arriving at the Deputy Director''s office, the door was lined up with a row of section chiefs and department heads.


    Dressed in a chic OL outfit and with a curvaceous figure, Tan Huimin was there patiently performing reception duties.


    Guan Xiao had only encountered such a scene outside Yan Chen''s office door before.


    She hadn''t expected to encounter it outside Qiu Tu''s office door...


    This signified that the power within the Investigation Bureau was gradually shifting towards Qiu Tu.


    ''I really haven''t followed the wrong person...''


    At the same time, Tan Huimin also spotted Guan Xiao.


    Her eyes brightened upon seeing Guan Xiao.


    She whispered something to the Special Service Department''s Deputy Minister next to her, then quickly walked over to Guan Xiao, saying, "Minister Guan, the Bureau Chief is waiting for you."


    Guan Xiao nodded slightly and then walked into Qiu Tu''s office under the watchful eyes of all the section chiefs and department heads.


    Their gazes followed the two as they entered the office. Familiar section chiefs and department heads exchanged knowing looks, seeing a hint of ambiguity in each other''s eyes...


    Qiu Tu''s fondness for beautiful women was no secret in the Investigation Bureau, and even in all of Xinjie City.


    Rumors had it that Qiu Tu''s mistresses ranged from young girls to married women, from common citizens to a Bureau Chief, having them all.


    Even more, there were whispers that even the Security Department''s Rain Butterfly Chief had a murky relationship with Qiu Tu.


    Coupled with Qiu Tu''s recent revelation of being a Third Order Cataclysmic, privately, many suspected his Cataclysm Path had something to do with women...


    And with Qiu Tu bringing another beautiful young girl to the Investigation Bureau today, it was inevitable for others to think even more...


    Meanwhile, as the office chiefs and department heads speculated wildly in the office, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao entered and saw the beautiful young girl.


    The girl looked young, about sixteen or seventeen, with piercing, bright eyes and small fangs peeking out as she spoke, giving her a fierce yet adorable look that made her appear not easy to provoke.


    Moreover, her innate sense of pride made it clear at first glance that she was from the Sanctuary, not from an area like Xinjie City awaiting planning.


    At that moment, the girl was standing next to Qiu Tu, carefully watching him correct documents.


    Guan Xiao''s gaze lingered on the girl momentarily, and as she didn''t understand the girl''s relation to Qiu Tu, she refrained from flirting.


    Instead, she saluted Qiu Tu formally, "Bureau Chief!"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu, dressed in his Bureau Chief''s uniform, looked up at her, and then waved Tan Huimin away.


    Tan Huimin nodded slightly and quickly stepped out of the office, closing the door from the outside.


    Once there were only three people and a cat left in the office, Qiu Tu, leaning back in his chair, finally spoke, "Minister Guan, you said you found an Evil God clone?"


    "Where?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao reported in the standard three-section manner, saying, "At the City Hall, in Deputy Director Wu''s home."


    After stating the result, she began to recount the process, "Yesterday, I led the Political Department''s intelligence team to review all City Hall, Investigation Bureau, and military officials who have shown abnormalities in recent times."


    "Deputy Director Wu was among those who entered our list."


    "Lately, he''s been irritable and prone to outbursts in his department, lashing out at subordinates over trivial issues." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Moreover... according to our intelligence, he recently delegated people to purchase some Cataclysmic Material."


    "These abnormalities prompted us to include him in the first batch of suspects."


    "So... last night, Chief Miao and I went to Deputy Director Wu''s home to conduct an investigation."


    As she spoke, the black cat in Guan Xiao''s arms pressed against her chest, jumped to the ground.


    Then the black cat''s body slowly enlarged, swelling, and eventually transformed into a petite girl still with a cat''s tail.


    ```

 Chapter 662 - 372: Womens War (10,000 Characters for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    She saluted Qiu Tu and said, "Bureau Chief, Miao Xiaoxiao reporting to you."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly and then continued to look at Guan Xiao.


    Guan Xiao gathered the broken strands of hair beside her cheek, her seductive eyes blinked, and then she reported last night''s entire incident to Qiu Tu in detail.


    When he heard that neither instruments nor Miao Xiaoxiao''s personal investigation could detect any abnormalities, yet birds and insects dared not approach and there were eyes spying on them, Qiu Tu''s brows involuntarily furrowed.


    He asked, "Are you sure this is an Evil God''s identity? Could it be some sort of Cataclysmic ability or Cataclysmic Creature?"


    Guan Xiao hesitated for a moment, then carefully recalled the incident before shaking her head slowly.


    She said, "My Cataclysmic ability is relatively weak, but it''s growing quickly."


    "So, I became a Second Order Cataclysmic Awakened last year."


    "I couldn''t detect those eyes at all, which proves that the owner of the eyes is at least a Third Order Cataclysmic."


    "Deputy Director Wu seems to be just a normal Changer; he shouldn''t have such strength."


    "And more importantly... although I can''t see or feel ''It,''"


    "as soon as I became aware of ''Its'' Existence, the pressure in my heart became almost unbearable, feeling as if I''d be killed as soon as I showed the slightest flaw."


    "I think, this is not something a normal Changer or Cataclysmic Creature can accomplish."


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair, pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded his head.


    "That makes sense."


    After speaking, he turned to Shen Lingshuang, who stood beside him, and inquired, "Ling Shuang, what do you think?"


    At that moment, Shen Lingshuang seemed not entirely in working mode. From the time Guan Xiao was speaking, her watery large eyes had been fixated on Miao Xiaoxiao.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu asked for her opinion that she suddenly raised her hand, pointed at Miao Xiaoxiao, her fair melon-seed face filled with shock, and her whole being appeared flustered,


    "Qiu Tu! Is your Investigation Bureau so... chaotic?!"


    "She''s not wearing clothes! She''s completely naked!"


    After speaking, she looked at Miao Xiaoxiao, then at Guan Xiao, and finally toward Qiu Tu sitting in the chair, baring her small tiger teeth in a face of self-doubt, she asked, "Can you see her clothes?"


    "Have I awakened X-Ray Vision?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Guan Xiao: ....


    Miao Xiaoxiao: ?


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang almost confused, Qiu Tu coughed, giving Guan Xiao a look.


    Guan Xiao quickly removed her uniform and draped it over Miao Xiaoxiao.


    Qiu Tu also explained, "Xiaoxiao''s Cataclysmic ability is Transformation; occasonally there will be situations where she has no clothes, which is normal. Don''t make a big deal out of it."


    "Let''s focus on the case."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang: ???


    She looked toward Miao Xiaoxiao.


    The Cat Girl Lolita had a uniform draped over her upper body, which was unbuttoned, revealing glimpses of what laid beneath.


    The lower half, uncovered, showed her slender, fair legs.


    And behind her bottom, there was an additional black tail...?


    This half-hidden appearance, combined with the Beast Lady charm of the Lolita, directly maxed out Shen Lingshuang''s alertness!


    She bared her teeth, looking fiercely yet cutely at the two women before her.


    She had a premonition, these two women certainly had an unusual relationship with Qiu Tu!


    They were her love rivals!


    Sure enough, coming to the Investigation Bureau was the right decision; she had discovered two rivals right away!


    Thinking so, Shen Lingshuang''s competitive spirit was ignited.


    If these two rivals could help Qiu Tu solve such a big case, then she couldn''t fall behind!


    This was a war between women!


    With that in mind, her brain whirred, starting to contemplate the methods her father had taught her to identify and counter Evil God clones!


    --------


    ------ S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After speaking, he turned to Shen Lingshuang, who stood beside him, and inquired, "Ling Shuang, what do you think?"


    At that moment, Shen Lingshuang seemed not entirely in working mode. From the time Guan Xiao was speaking, her watery large eyes had been fixated on Miao Xiaoxiao.


    It wasn''t until Qiu Tu asked for her opinion that she suddenly raised her hand, pointed at Miao Xiaoxiao, her fair melon-seed face filled with shock, and her whole being appeared flustered,


    "Qiu Tu! Is your Investigation Bureau so... chaotic?!"


    "She''s not wearing clothes! She''s completely naked!"


    After speaking, she looked at Miao Xiaoxiao, then at Guan Xiao, and finally toward Qiu Tu sitting in the chair, baring her small tiger teeth in a face of self-doubt, she asked, "Can you see her clothes?"


    "Have I awakened X-Ray Vision?"


    Qiu Tu: ....


    Guan Xiao: ....


    Miao Xiaoxiao: ?


    Seeing Shen Lingshuang almost confused, Qiu Tu coughed, giving Guan Xiao a look.


    Guan Xiao quickly removed her uniform and draped it over Miao Xiaoxiao.


    Qiu Tu also explained, "Xiaoxiao''s Cataclysmic ability is Transformation; occasionally there will be situations where she has no clothes, which is normal. Don''t make a big deal out of it."


    "Let''s focus on the case."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang: ???


    She looked toward Miao Xiaoxiao.


    The Cat Girl Lolita had a uniform draped over her upper body, which was unbuttoned, revealing glimpses of what laid beneath.


    The lower half, uncovered, showed her slender, fair legs.


    And behind her bottom, there was an additional black tail...?


    This half-hidden appearance, combined with the Beast Lady charm of the Lolita, directly maxed out Shen Lingshuang''s alertness!


    She bared her teeth, looking fiercely yet cutely at the two women before her.


    She had a premonition, these two women certainly had an unusual relationship with Qiu Tu!


    They were her love rivals!


    Sure enough, coming to the Investigation Bureau was the right decision; she had discovered two rivals right away!


    Thinking so, Shen Lingshuang''s competitive spirit was ignited.


    If these two rivals could help Qiu Tu solve such a big case, then she couldn''t fall behind!


    This was a war between women!


    With that in mind, her brain whirred, starting to contemplate the methods her father had taught her to identify and counter Evil God clones!

 Chapter 663 - 373

    The Third Sanctuary was established much earlier than the Eighth Sanctuary, so its level of technology, as well as its experience in dealing with Evil Gods, is far superior to that of the Eighth Sanctuary.


    Even, they had scientifically classified Evil God invasions into four urgent types: Summoning, Possession, Clone, and Descent.


    Summoning is the most common level, and it''s the way most Evil Gods interact with the real world.


    Typically, it involves an Evil God cultivating Believers in the real world through various means, after which the Believers conduct rituals, using "sacrificial offerings" as the "price" to summon the Evil God.


    This level of invasion does not require intervention from the Security Bureau and the Political Department.


    Because, the Evil Gods summoned with "sacrificial offerings" as the "price" can only communicate with the real world. Or they may briefly use power close to that of a First-Order Catastropher.


    Not only is the power they can utilize small, but their existence is also very brief and does not have much impact on the real world.


    Therefore, Sanctuaries will pay attention, but will not intervene too much¡ªmost they will do, after the Evil God has returned, is to round up their Believers in one fell swoop.


    Compared to "Summoning," the next level, "Possession," is much more serious.


    "Possession" is when the Evil God descends their consciousness and a portion of their power into the real world through a "sacrificial offering" or a "medium."


    They impose their consciousness onto the "sacrificial offering" or "medium." Using the "sacrificial offering" or "medium" as the cost, they wield their power.


    This level of Evil God invasion necessitates immediate elimination by the Security Department and the Political Department upon discovery to avoid more severe consequences.


    The previous Larilo was an invasion of this level.


    Aside from "Summoning" and "Possession," the third level of invasion is called "Clone."


    This level of invasion is extremely serious.


    "Boundless Heart Sea" being a Spirit World, whether it''s "matter" or "power," to bring it into the real world requires paying a "price."


    The stronger the power descending, the higher the "price" that must be paid.


    Thus, for an Evil God to invade, they must try to "save" on the "price" in any way they can.


    Like "Summoning" and "Possession" involve using Believers or things from the real world to "save" on the price.


    While "Clone" and "Descent" do not try to save at all, they forcibly pay the price and descend "a part of themselves" or "their entire being" into the real world.


    The advantage of this degree of invasion is... it doesn''t require insiders in the real world, and although the strength might wane due to the transported forces, the Positional Frame still remains that of the Main Body''s.


    Many common Cataclysmic treasures or Catastrophe Powers are ineffective against it.


    However, there are also several disadvantages.


    The first drawback is that it consumes a lot of power, and the second is that it''s difficult to conceal¡ªafter all, the power of the Evil God is like a firefly in the dark in the real world, which can be easily detected by the Security Department and the Political Department.


    Therefore, many Evil Gods will combine the second and third types of invasions, "Possession" and "Clone."


    Firstly, they use "Clone" to forcibly Descend, and then they find a suitable vessel to forcibly "Possess."


    In this manner, since there''s a physical body from the real world to conceal them, it becomes very difficult for the Security Department and the Political Department to find any related clues¡ªlike last night, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao didn''t detect any traces of Cataclysmic Power.


    But this method also leaves traces...


    Shen Lingshuang''s brain raced as she carefully recalled the content her father had casually explained to her...


    She remembered her father once saying that the method of invasion by an Evil God''s "Clone," due to the "Evil God" being too powerful, is actually something ordinary people are unable to bear¡ªhaving such an Existence attached to their body and Soul.


    Therefore, probably to vent that force or possibly under the influence of the "Evil God''s" aura, they often exhibit certain traits!


    For instance... someone who has never been to school, yet can recite dozens of poems.


    Or... someone who is bad at math suddenly knows very advanced mathematical knowledge overnight.


    Or... someone who cannot paint suddenly can produce extremely beautiful paintings.


    Besides these external displays of talent, a person possessed by an Evil God might also suddenly become obsessed with something and unable to extricate themselves, consuming their spirit every day.


    ¡ªThis too is to release the stimulation of the Evil God on their Soul.


    As for methods to deal with "Clone" invasions... Shen Lingshuang remembered there seem to be two ways.


    One is exorcism. This method is straightforward; it involves gathering masters and forcibly executing the person possessed by the Evil God, and then destroying the Evil God''s Clone.


    The second is... encirclement and rescue.


    Shen Lingshuang remembered her father coming home very happy once. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Because after half a year of planning, they had finally succeeded in killing an Evil God.


    So, Shen Lingshuang had inquired about the process out of curiosity.


    Possibly because her father was happy, he explained to Shen Lingshuang in detail.


    Turns out, the "encirclement and rescue" method took advantage of the Evil God Clone''s connection to the Main Body and the characteristic that to descend power from the Boundless Heart Sea requires a colossal "price."


    Several masters deliberately consumed the Evil God Clone''s power in the real world, then gave the Clone the hope of escape.


    They allowed the Evil God Clone to continue transferring power from the "Boundless Heart Sea" non-stop.


    Since each transfer requires paying a "price," the more the Evil God transmits, the more it consumes.

 Chapter 664 - 373_2

    Once they had "drained" the clone of the Evil God, they would split their forces in two, taking out the exhausted main body and the clone of the Evil God.


    It was a method that gave them twice the result with half the effort. It cost far less energy and price than it usually would to take down a Fourth-Order Evil God...


    The only problem was... this required that their own strength be strong enough, and that the Evil God had no companions to come to support and disrupt the plan.


    Thinking of this, Shen Lingshuang felt reassured.


    She came back to her senses, looked at Qiu Tu, and then cheekily repeated everything her father had taught her.


    Shen Lingshuang was naturally young, and her petite build made her look like a child.


    Thus, when Qiu Tu had asked for her opinion earlier, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao didn''t take it seriously.


    They simply thought that Shen Lingshuang was Qiu Tu''s new woman. Qiu Tu had changed his tastes, no longer liking big peaches, but preferring flat washboards.


    But when Shen Lingshuang articulated the experiences of the Third Sanctuary in a clear and logical manner, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao''s perceptions changed entirely.


    As secret operatives, they knew well how much intelligence and resources it would take to verify a systematized understanding of a mature Evil God.


    Yet this girl in front of them recited it all as if it were her family''s treasure!


    Realizing this, Guan Xiao and Miao Xiaoxiao exchanged glances, both reading the same message in the other''s eyes...


    Guan Xiao: This girl''s background must be extraordinary!


    Miao Xiaoxiao: Could she be the Evil God?


    Guan Xiao: Hmm?? Something seems off there...


    Meanwhile, after quietly listening to Shen Lingshuang''s explanation, Qiu Tu pondered briefly and then immediately made his judgment.


    He looked at the three women and then said, "Since"


    ---------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face and then undid her waistband.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing a body before Qiu Tu as flawless and delicately carved as white jade.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to have sped up for an instant.


    But he was, after all, a man of propriety. Plus, he had to read a philosophy book tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to the book "Existence" in his hands, glancing once, twice... and then proceeded to read!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the meaning of "Existence" is in Cao currency!''


    Thinking that utterly vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leaped off the bed, and amidst Fang Tangtang''s shriek, scooped her up and pressed her onto the bed...


    Blue Moon blushed, pulling dark clouds to hide her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang battled until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to have really cast herself in the girlfriend role, and even though Qiu Tu noticed her frowning lightly several times, as the "injuries" from yesterday had not fully healed, she still moved earnestly, swaying along with Qiu Tu... S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Qiu Tu once again savored how soft and comfortable tough kung fu like Facial Cleanser could be...


    ''Facial Cleanser really is best when used personally!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu imparted all he knew to Fang Tangtang, helping her gain insight...


    After all, as the deputy head of the Political Department, he indeed had a quota for killings.


    She didn''t quite understand that feeling.


    It just felt extremely comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her too much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei onto the ground, stripped off her bath towel in one tug, and pounced!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation that she and Liu Fuping had never had before...


    That completely different pleasure made her want to press her shoulder against Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth multiple times to ask for a pause.


    But Qiu Tu held her firmly from in front, with one hand pressing on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude left Tang Feifei with no room to resist.


    Especially when... every time she couldn''t take it and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean into her ear and whisper in a low voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break our agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, Tang Feifei, who always prided herself on being strong, couldn''t accept this one-sided "beating"!


    Several times she wanted to flip the situation around!


    But... she was, after all, a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily, she really didn''t initiate contact with Qiu Tu or resist him throughout the day and night...


    Just silently exerting all her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put a lot of effort into it.


    He knew to conquer the woman before him; he would have to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung to Tang Feifei relentlessly, hardly giving her a chance to rest!


    It was only late into the night, after a long struggle, that the two lay together, falling into a deep slumber, while by then, the 200-square-meter lounge and its rooms were already full of signs of their battle...


    As he drifted off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected: Tang Feifei was truly strong and truly wild!


    If it weren''t for his rise to Cataclysmic and the significant enhancements to his body, plus forbidding Tang Feifei from taking control...


    He reckoned... his back would have had to retire after this ordeal.....


    [4 and a half days (Time to close Yin Caimei''s case)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the dark)]


    ....


    The next day, with the first rays of the morning sun.


    Qiu Tu gradually woke up from his deep sleep.

 Chapter 665 - 373_3

    He reflexively wanted to rub his eyes, only to lift his hand and feel a wave of soreness in his arm and lower back! S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ouch!"


    Qiu Tu gasped in cold air, then became fully awake amidst the soreness and checked his arm, only then belatedly remembering the glorious achievements of yesterday throughout the day and night.


    Thinking of himself, who had worked so hard yesterday that he could only focus on the task at hand, and of Tang Feifei, who was equally worn out, he silently lit a candle for his waist...


    He felt that his waist would probably be useless from now on.


    Thinking this way, he slightly shifted his thigh, and the soreness shot straight to the crown of his head.


    ''Forget it, let''s light a candle for Yue Kua as well, it''s probably done for...''


    Silently lamenting the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached beside him, only then realizing that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he knew that it was only a transaction between the two of them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s still hard work, right?''


    ''This is just too ungrateful!''


    Just as he was thinking this way, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot, bare-legged, and bare-bodied, walked over with a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, her curvaceous body seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    She walked with an indescribable rhythm, akin to a leopard swiftly moving through the jungle, each step filled with power and rhythm.


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to put down the medicine, then said coolly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... "The Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan," once established, might again speed up the date of the Dongye State Council''s inauguration.


    By then, he might have to face the threat posed by Huang Shangzong directly.


    For this reason, Qiu Tu must enhance his position and strengthen his power as much as possible before then,


    The several deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belonged to the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu was from the "Reformist Faction," and Meng Sanzhai was part of the "Fengtian Faction."


    According to the intelligence given by Yan Chen, aside from Meng Sanzhai, the other two shouldn''t have any connections with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this way, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting beside him; Ouyang belonged to the "Free Democracy Faction," even less related to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four of them supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four people, it was Meng Sanzhai from the "Fengtian Faction" who was the most passive, simply expressing support for Qiu Tu and hardly speaking.


    It''s true what they say about the Evil God, one word from him makes others feel comfortable.


    Beauty is a bone-scraper, but as everyone knows, we people of Zhejiang are born with tough bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel makes driving invigorating, "sister-in-law" seems a bit too anxious, huh?


    Mountains are the extremely slow waves of geological eras.


    Beauty, huh? Not sure, but the flowers are blooming beautifully, and for me not to admire them would seem to lack appreciation of romantic sentiment.


    With these thoughts and after successfully boosting Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu didn''t bother with Larilo anymore.


    ------


    "In compliance with the procedure and to avoid more complications, let''s arrest the Eagle immediately after the Speaker officially takes office,"


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s approval, Guan Xiao looked at him a bit strangely, then asked, "Chief... it seems like you''re not surprised at all by this intelligence?"


    She asked doubtfully, "Don''t you think this information is very important?"


    "Just... no encouragement? No praise?"


    When Guan Xiao spoke, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "Section Chief Guan is right."


    "The Intelligence Section has made such a great contribution, it indeed deserves high praise."


    "Once this case is cracked, and all members of the Alliance Special Forces have been eliminated, I will make sure to commend you to the higher-ups."


    After hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao looked deeply at him with her beautiful, seductive eyes and said, "Chief... I don''t know if it''s just my impression."


    "I always feel... like you knew about the Alliance Special Warfare Squad before me?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned on his chair and responded with a faint smile, "Is that so?"


    "Well..."


    "You might have guessed right."


    Qiu Tu''s words made Guan Xiao''s eyes widen slightly.


    Having studied and worked in the intelligence system for many years, Guan Xiao had long developed the ability and habit of constantly gathering intelligence. This also made her especially sensitive to certain emotional cues.


    So, when she finished talking about the Alliance Special Warfare Squad and Qiu Tu showed no signs of shock or urgency, she acutely detected something unusual.


    However, even though her intuition told her that Qiu Tu probably knew the intelligence too, her rational mind couldn''t believe it.


    After all, her intelligence had been transmitted at great risk and sacrifice by a spy.


    How did Qiu Tu know?


    Just then,


    Every bone, every blood vessel, every inch of muscle and the intricate patterns of spiritual power became clearer, like stars sprinkled in the night sky, twinkling with dazzling light. These patterns of spiritual power not only enhanced his physical strength but also allowed him to absorb and utilize external spiritual power more efficiently.


    His muscles, nourished by the spiritual power, became tougher, as if containing the weight of mountains and the fluidity of rivers. Whenever Lin Yi moved, the air would tremble slightly due to his actions, a minor manifestation of the overflow of his internal power. What was even more remarkable was that his bones seemed to be reforged during the ascension, becoming denser and more resilient, able to withstand greater impacts of force.


    Change of the Soul


    Compared to the changes in his body, Lin Yi''s soul underwent an even more profound transformation. His intent


    Natural Phenomenon


    Tremblings, those were the minor signs of the overflow of his internal power. What was even more remarkable was that his bones seemed to be reforged during the ascension, becoming denser and more resilient, able to withstand greater impacts of force.


    Change of the Soul


    Compared to the changes in his body, Lin Yi''s soul underwent an even more profound transformation. His intent


    Natural Phenomenon

 Chapter 666 - 374: Tang Feifei Successfully Reaches Fourth Order! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Guan Xiao, though she walked away nonchalantly,


    but don''t forget her cataclysmic ability "Mother Bug" could still observe the scene behind her.


    Thus, she easily captured the series of changes in Shen Lingshuang''s expression.


    A mysterious smile curled up slightly at the corner of her mouth.


    Different from Shen Lingshuang, who regarded her as a rival filled with hostility,


    Guan Xiao had never considered Shen Lingshuang as her opponent.


    Not only because Shen Lingshuang seemed to be a girl with limited means, but also because... Guan Xiao just didn''t love Qiu Tu.


    Shen Lingshuang treated Qiu Tu as a treasure, Guan Xiao¡­ well, regarded Qiu Tu as a piece of treasure as well.


    But unlike Shen Lingshuang, Guan Xiao''s feeling toward Qiu Tu was not love, but dependency.


    She was optimistic about Qiu Tu, his abilities, his background, and his future.


    She wanted to attach herself to Qiu Tu and subsequently rise to prominence.


    As for seducing Qiu Tu, and even having some ambiguous encounters with him, all were just minor sidetracks to her main goal.


    Perhaps due to different growing environments. Compared to men, Guan Xiao valued her career more!


    So, from the beginning, Shen Lingshuang had mistaken her rival.


    But Guan Xiao didn''t mind.


    Being a master of human nature, she knew why Qiu Tu had assigned Shen Lingshuang to her.


    It was to support and teach Shen Lingshuang.


    So¡­ letting Shen Lingshuang see her as a rival and spurring her on from time to time might even help her progress faster.


    After all¡­ Qiu Tu was her boss! Fulfilling the task completely assigned by the boss and making the boss happy was the responsibility of a subordinate like her!


    When the boss was happy, she would be able to get promoted!


    Thinking so, Guan Xiao hummed a tune contentedly and headed towards the Political Department.


    Meanwhile, the black cat perched on her shoulder tilted its head, looking at her attractive face and then back at Shen Lingshuang chasing after them, the cat seemed puzzled...


    Apparently, with Miao Xiaoxiao''s deficiency in understanding emotions, she couldn''t grasp what these two women were competing for, or what they were doing.


    It seemed like¡­ they were competing over the Bureau Chief? Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But why compete over the Bureau Chief?


    Can you eat a Bureau Chief?


    Meow didn''t understand...


    ...


    Meanwhile, while three women were each playing their part in the same grand play with different thoughts.


    12th floor, Deputy Director''s office.


    Qiu Tu was also enjoying a massage from Tan Huimin while drinking tea.


    Perhaps not fully understanding why Qiu Tu had arranged for Shen Lingshuang to work under Guan Xiao, Tan Huimin, while gently massaging, asked,


    "Bureau Chief¡­ Investigator Shen seems to have hostility towards Minister Guan. Is it really fine to let her work with Minister Guan?"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu sipped his tea, then said, "It''s fine."


    "Shen Lingshuang''s skills are not enough to escape from Guan Xiao''s Five Fingers Mountain."


    "And Guan Xiao definitely knows her own limits. She knows what can and cannot be done."


    "Let Lingshuang learn from Guan Xiao for a while; it will be beneficial for her growth."


    Seeing that Qiu Tu had everything planned out, Tan Huimin stopped trying to remind him.


    She gently "Hmm~" in agreement, then said, "So Chief, when do we continue working?"


    Qiu Tu, hearing this, put down his tea cup and said softly, "In a little while."


    His gaze deepened, "I need to step out for a bit. I''ll have a clone control and handle the tasks."


    Tan Huimin nodded slightly, then adjusted the stray hair near her ear, exposing her fair, attractive neck that made one want to transform into a vampire and take a bite.


    Qiu Tu''s heart fluttered¡­ feeling that this beautiful young woman in front of him had become even more enticing since being nourished by him...


    The day passed quickly.


    Just as Qiu Tu had mentioned, he was very busy today.


    He was preoccupied due to multitasking.


    Ever since becoming the Domain Master, Qiu Tu had discovered Whale Shark and Xie Yue, two Evil Gods, who, after realizing that their plans were unworkable, had already left the Xinjie District.


    And for him, desiring his "Domain Master" fake realm power to grow stronger until breaking through Fourth Order, he needed to stay in the Xinjie District.


    And to use his "Domain Master" abilities, he also needed to stay in the Xinjie District and refine the "earth vein nodes."


    However, as the acting Bureau Chief, he still needed to handle official duties in the real world.


    Thus, he could only multitask in three ways.


    His main body went to the Xinjie District, sitting atop an earth vein node, silently infiltrating and refining it.


    While paying attention to the gradual increase in fake realm power of the "Domain Master."


    And the clone summoned by the "Uncompromising Simulacrum" was in the Bureau Chief''s office, patiently managing affairs of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Fortunately, refining earth vein nodes was a mechanical task; and Tang Feifei had also taught him how to "slack off" in the Bureau Chief position; both tasks did not require much mental effort, otherwise, he definitely wouldn''t have been able to do so much simultaneously!


    The "slacking off" method taught by Tang Feifei was simple, just one phrase: Focus on abstraction, not on reality, grasp the big, not the small.


    In fact, this wasn''t a method of slacking off, but a governance approach taught to her by a senior member of the Tang family.


    According to this senior family member: When one has already achieved a higher position, but lacks experience in this role, the most taboo thing is to be "too diligent."


    Because the higher-up''s energy is too great, and it can affect too many people and events. Perhaps just a casual remark, but below, it could be disseminated, amplified, causing unpredictable consequences.


    So, when lacking experience, the higher-up must focus on abstraction, not reality.


    Focusing on abstraction meant unifying thoughts and seizing power. Not focusing on reality meant not meddling with the specifics of work, allowing subordinates to handle freely, and keeping the routine operations of the department or institution unchanged as much as possible.

 Chapter 669 - 375

    Tang Jiancha on the other end of the phone fell silent for a moment before speaking to Tang Feifei with some seriousness, "Feifei, are you serious, or are you joking?"


    Tang Feifei, as if she had anticipated Tang Jiancha''s reaction, replied coolly, "Of course I''m serious."


    Tang Jiancha said, "That''s good. You know I hate it the most when people make random jokes with me."


    After finishing, Tang Jiancha''s tone shifted, then he continued, "Since you''re not joking, then your second uncle will have a proper chat with you."


    He said, "You remember what the family said when they first sent you down to Xinjie City, right?"


    Tang Feifei, with her expression unchanging, walked with her panther-like steps towards the second floor of the villa, then said expressionlessly,


    "I remember."


    Upon hearing her words, Tang Jiancha "hmm"ed and recounted, "When the family sent you down there, they told you."


    "The most important thing for the descendants of a great family is not to move fast, but to move steadily."


    "In the officialdom, the thing to avoid the most is standing out from the crowd. It attracts too much criticism and attention."


    "Especially for our kind of family, we cannot draw too much attention; we must keep a low profile."


    "Every step must be firm and solid, to strengthen your own foundation. Improve your abilities, discover and cultivate trustful and capable confidants."


    "With the family backing you, you do not need to promote crazily. As long as you''re slightly faster at every level, you''ll gradually accumulate a huge advantage."


    "And those ordinary people... no matter how strong their luck or abilities, there will always come a day when their fortune fades."


    "Most will hit their ceiling at Deputy Speaker, unable to take one step further."


    "So don''t rush; take it slow."


    At this point, Tang Jiancha paused, then continued, "Like you now... you have become a Domain Master and a Fourth-order Cataclysmic."


    "Actually, you''re barely qualified for Deputy Speaker."


    "But... do you really need to move up now?"


    Tang Jiancha spoke earnestly, "Dongye State was established just over a month ago. The five Speakers have taken their positions, and the division of fruits has been completed; everything is settling down."


    "If you become Deputy Speaker now, late to the party, it will not only be difficult for you to have any say in the state, but it will also upset them."


    "Plus, it''s the family forcing the operation for you to move up, your base is unstable, and you don''t have much advantage compared to the other Speakers. Most of the state councilors will watch cautiously."


    "At this time, it''s better to take a step back..."


    "It''s better to continue your tenure as the Domain Master and Fourth-order Cataclysmic, to be their Member of Parliament in your current position as the head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "Because of your strength and status, you are 100% sure to be the first among the councilors. By then, the Speakers will all want to win you over."


    "And the other councilors will also know your potential, knowing that you will soon pass through the dormant period and will instead flock to make connections with you, to invest in or join you."


    "By then, your foundation will become more and more robust!"


    "When a spot for Deputy Speaker opens up, you''ll shoot straight up, immeasurably."


    Having said this, Tang Jiancha concluded forcefully, "It can indeed be said that a person must rush, a horse must be let loose. A thousand days to build a ship, a single day to cross the river!"


    Upon hearing Tang Jiancha''s heartfelt advice, Tang Feifei on the other side of the phone fell silent for a moment...


    As the elder in the family who treated her the best, Tang Feifei of course knew that Tang Jiancha did everything for her good and was recommending the best plan for her.


    If she truly were the Domain Master, a Fourth-order Cataclysmic who had risen on her own, then she probably would have agreed already.


    But she was not.


    All this was brought to her by Qiu Tu, and now she and Qiu Tu were two grasshoppers on the same rope.


    The two of them must continue to play out this scene, carry on with the act.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei, after a few seconds of silence, still continued to say, "Second uncle, I want to be Deputy Speaker."


    Tang Jiancha:...


    Tang Jiancha was clearly not someone who would agree just because Tang Feifei said a few words.


    So he frowned lightly, then advised again, "Feifei... why do you want to be Deputy Speaker now?"


    His mind raced, and suddenly an image of a person flashed through his head. He seemed to have found a breakthrough to persuade her, and he quickly spoke, "Even if it''s for Qiu Tu, shouldn''t you wait for another year or two?"


    "You just recently became the head of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau, and he just became Deputy Director. The two of you as partners can let him cultivate confidants, develop his influence, and make up for the unstable foundation due to his quick promotions."


    "If... at this time you suddenly leave and become Deputy Speaker directly. What about Qiu Tu?"


    "He would be..."


    Before Tang Jiancha could finish speaking, Tang Feifei coldly interrupted him, "Qiu Tu will take my position, becoming the Bureau Chief."


    "Nonsense!" After Tang Feifei said this, even the good-tempered Tang Jiancha couldn''t help but get a bit annoyed.


    He scolded Tang Feifei and then exclaimed, "Do you think the Sanctuary is your family business?" S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Arrange it however you want to arrange it!?"


    "Qiu Tu has already skipped several levels in a short period of time. Now he''s already very conspicuous, but because of his low rank, not many people pay attention to him."


    "If he becomes the head of an Investigation Bureau of a city, becomes a state councilor! How many eyes will be watching him then!"


    "Do you really want to help him, or do you want to harm him?!"


    At this, Tang Jiancha''s tone became more intense, "I''m telling you, Tang Feifei, don''t think that just because you''ve become a Domain Master, a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, you can freely manipulate family and faction arrangements."


    "The old man is still here. Even if the old man is gone, your father is still here, I am still here! It''s not your turn to call the shots in this family!"

 Chapter 670 - 375_2

    Tang Jiancha said decisively, "Alright, this matter is settled."


    "You''ve just broken through to Fourth Order, take some time to rest."


    "I''ll go share the good news with the old man and your dad."


    "Stop thinking about Qiu Tu for now. In a couple of years, once you''re stable, we''ll make arrangements together."


    Having said that, Tang Jiancha was about to hang up the phone.


    But at that moment, Tang Feifei spoke again.


    Her tone was just as determined. She said to Tang Jiancha, "Uncle, Deputy Speaker, I am definitely going to be promoted."


    "The Bureau Chief must also reserve a spot for Qiu Tu."


    "You can''t blame me for this. You taught me all this when I was young."


    "Taught you?" Tang Jiancha was clearly puzzled and asked, "What did we teach you?"


    Tang Feifei, with a reminiscent look, said, "At that time, there was a person who got promoted by bootlicking, and I was very puzzled."


    "But you told me¡­ a person''s position and income aren''t determined by how much work they''ve done or how much effort they''ve put in."


    "It''s determined by the value they bring to the department, the institution, the company."


    "Hard work is just what beasts of burden do. In the eyes of the superiors: what you can do, others can do too. If you''ve done well, it''s only because the superiors chose you."


    "If superiors choose someone else, maybe that person could do even better."


    "There are plenty of others who can do your job if you won''t."


    "But... if you have your own unique value, your own core competitiveness..."


    "For instance, you are so capable that you are in a league of your own, certain major cases can''t be solved by anyone but you; or your family is so powerful that it can bring all sorts of conveniences to the department and superiors."


    "Or perhaps... you can completely set aside your pride and serve superiors hand and foot every day, bringing them emotional value."


    "Then everything will be different."


    Hearing Tang Feifei say this, Tang Jiancha on the other end of the phone could guess what she was about to say.


    His face turned ashen and he shouted angrily, "Tang Feifei!!"


    But Tang Feifei continued as if she hadn''t heard, "Uncle, as of now¡­ I am the only Domain Master of the Eighth Sanctuary."


    "I have my own core competitiveness, my own unique value."


    "So, please consider my opinion carefully."


    After that, Tang Feifei hung up the phone expressionlessly with a "snap."


    At this time, Tang Jiancha, listening to the busy tone on the other end, his face really underwent rapid changes!


    Finally, in his fury, he violently threw the special Communicator to the ground!


    A "crack!" was heard! The valuable Communicator was smashed to pieces, broken beyond repair...


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    On the other end, Tang Feifei clenched the Communicator in her hand a bit tighter.


    She let out a deep sigh.


    Although she had successfully advanced to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, she didn''t feel much joy.


    After all, using herself to threaten her family in this way made her feel a bit uncomfortable.


    But... she had no choice. Without this method, she simply couldn''t carry out her plan with Qiu Tu.


    As for... whether she could directly break the agreement with Qiu Tu¡ªafter all, she had already obtained the "Boundless Divine Crystal" and become a Fourth Order Cataclysmic.


    Qiu Tu could no longer hold her in check.


    Moreover, she was the only person in the world who knew that Qiu Tu was a Domain Master. If she imprisoned or eliminated Qiu Tu, she might be able to acquire the power of the Domain Master without anyone knowing.


    But... not to mention that she had never had such thoughts.


    Even if she did have such thoughts and truly intended to break the agreement, she didn''t think she''d fare well.


    During the more than half a year she had spent with Qiu Tu, she knew his nature: he was a person with a clear sense of gratitude and grudges.


    Right now, she was so close to him, considered one of his own. If she dared to hurt him in such a major matter, he would surely remember it for a lifetime.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu was the kind of person who thought five moves ahead for every step he took, likely keeping a trick up his sleeve for a turnaround or escape.


    If she didn''t root him out entirely, it would bring endless troubles to her and the Tang family...


    So, she had never thought of breaking the agreement.


    -------- Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ------


    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, her robe slid down, revealing a body in front of Qiu Tu as white and exquisitely crafted as jade.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to speed up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a decent person. Plus, he still had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" he was holding, once, twice... then he continued reading!


    "To hell with ''Existence,''" the significance of ''Existence'' is in Cao currency!"


    Thinking that extremely vulgar thought, which insulted philosophy, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed and with Fang Tangtang''s cry of surprise, he picked her up and then pressed her onto the bed...


    A blush crept onto Blue Moon''s face, as it called clouds to hide her countenance.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang waged battle until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to really have immersed herself in the role of a girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu saw her wince several times; yesterday''s "injury" clearly wasn''t completely healed, but she still earnestly swayed her figure, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again felt how soft and comfortable Fang Tangtang''s version of Facial Cleanser was...


    ''Facial Cleanser is indeed best when self-used!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also generously imparted knowledge to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her with the essence...


    After all, as Deputy Director of the Political Department, he was entitled to a quota for eliminating others.

 Chapter 671 - 375_3

    She couldn''t quite understand what that feeling was.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her too much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei down to the ground, ripped her towel off in one motion and mounted her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she and Liu Fu had never known...


    The entirely different kind of pleasure made her want to press her shoulder against Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth several times, attempting to call for a halt.


    But Qiu Tu had one hand gripping her front and the other pressing on her shoulder, leaving her like a fish out of water that couldn''t turn over.


    That domineering attitude made it nearly impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially... each time she was about to give in and felt like kicking Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and murmur huskily, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, as someone who had always been strong-willed since childhood, she couldn''t accept this one-sided "thrashing"!


    Several times she wanted to turn the tables and sing her victory!


    But... after all, she was a person of her word.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu''s terms, throughout that day and night, she really didn''t initiate any contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him....


    She just secretly exerted her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, he really applied some Tough Kung Fu this time.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he tenaciously entwined Tang Feifei, giving her virtually no chance to rest!


    And so, after a fierce struggle until late at night, the two finally fell asleep in each other''s arms. By then, the over 200 square meter rest area, all its rooms, had already been marked with the traces of their battle....


    As he drifted toward sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei is truly tough! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to being a Cataclysmic, greatly enhancing his body, and had not prohibited Tang Feifei from taking control!


    He guessed... after this ordeal, his back would be retiring....


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)] Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next morning, accompanied by the first rays of dawn''s light,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    His instinct was to rub his eyes, but as he lifted his arm, he felt a sore ache in his arms and back!


    "Hisss!"


    Qiu Tu took in a sharp breath of cool air, then fully woke up amidst the soreness, checking his arm before belatedly remembering the glorious achievements from the day and night before.


    Thinking back to his hardworking self from yesterday, solely focused on the task at hand, and remembering Tang Feifei, who had also nearly been worn to pieces, he silently lit a candle for his own back...


    He felt that his back would probably be useless from now on.


    With that in mind, he slightly moved his thigh, and the soreness shot straight to his crown.


    ''Forget it, might as well light a candle for Yue Kua too, probably done for...''


    Silently considering the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached to his side, only to find that it was already empty, leaving behind only a faint jasmine fragrance....


    Although he knew well that their relationship was just a transaction, that moment still left Qiu Tu feeling somewhat disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like disowning someone!''


    But just as he was thinking this, the bedroom door suddenly opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefooted, with bare legs and a bare body, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her body''s graceful curves seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    As she walked, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a stealthy leopard swiftly moving through the jungle, every step full of strength and rhythm.


    Approaching Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to place the medicine, then said coldly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Silently contemplating the fierceness of yesterday''s combat, Qiu Tu reflexively reached to his side, only to realize that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a faint jasmine fragrance....


    Although he knew well that their relationship was just a transaction, that moment still left Qiu Tu feeling somewhat disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there''s hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much like disowning someone!''


    But just as he was thinking this, the bedroom door suddenly opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefooted, with bare legs and a bare body, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, and her body''s graceful curves seemed to contain endless explosive power and resilience.


    As she walked, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a stealthy leopard swiftly moving through the jungle, every step full of strength and rhythm.


    Approaching Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to place the medicine, then said coldly, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."

 Chapter 672 - 376: The Tang Family Shaken! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Who is Tang Feifei?


    She is the legitimate granddaughter of Elder Tang of the Fengtian Faction, a powerful competitor for the core position in the future of the Fengtian Faction.


    She herself is on the watch list of various families and factions!


    Any new intelligence was almost instantly transmitted to the Sanctuary through various channels.


    Thus, when Tang Feifei announced a week ago that she had become the Domain Master and was preparing to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic,


    it took barely a few minutes before all families and factions received the related intelligence.


    At that time, everyone was truly shocked!


    The first Domain Master of the Eighth Sanctuary! A Fourth-order Cataclysmic under the age of 30!


    Either of these statuses were enough to shake the Sanctuary!


    And yet, they both appeared in the same person?


    How could this not astonish all families and factions!


    Moreover, what''s more important is... how long had it been?


    Everyone vaguely remembered that the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion" had only started just over a month ago, right?


    And now it''s already achieved?


    Is "expanding" that simple?


    Or was Tang Feifei just incredibly lucky?


    Considering the impact of Tang Feifei''s successful advancement on the whole situation of the Eighth Sanctuary, various families began to feel restless.


    They each started to connect with the Fengtian Faction, gather intelligence, send spies to Xinjie City...


    Among them, there were those who wished to sabotage Tang Feifei''s advancement, but... Qiu Tu had daringly planned everything well in advance for Tang Feifei to face this challenge.


    ¡ªDon''t forget, to expand the "Boundless Heart Sea", the Fengtian Faction had several Third Order Cataclysmics experts in Xinjie City!


    Without any Fourth-order stepping in, these people were enough to ensure Tang Feifei''s safety.


    Therefore, after discussing the right time for advancement with Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu arranged for these Third Order Cataclysmic experts to guard the perimeter of the villa.


    Moreover, with Qiu Tu deploying heavy forces to encircle the villa inside and out, no one could disturb Tang Feifei.


    That''s why Tang Feifei was able to advance so smoothly!


    And because no one deliberately caused trouble during this time, all factions within the Sanctuary had somewhat anticipated Tang Feifei''s success.


    This resulted in a relatively mild response from the factions of the Sanctuary when the news of Tang Feifei''s successful advancement arrived today, only showing increased enthusiasm towards the Fengtian Faction.


    After all... as one of the next core members of the Fengtian Faction, such a development ensured that the Fengtian Faction likely wouldn''t decline for decades.


    Thus, maintaining good relations with the Fengtian Faction is definitely beneficial for all factions.


    Of course... what they wanted to get their hands on more was the insider details of Tang Feifei becoming the Domain Master and the shares in the "Xinjie Region" expansion...


    In contrast to the other factions'' underlying turbulence, within the Fengtian Faction it was different...


    When Tang Jiancha arrived at Elder Tang''s home,


    Elder Tang was seated in the study, drinking tea with a long-missing smile on his face.


    His steward, Fu Wenliang, was beside him, smiling as he praised the two jars of old wine on the tea table.


    "Old master, it''s your influence indeed. Old Zhou had hidden that wine for so long, and you managed to bring two jars back in one go. He must be heartbroken."


    "That''s the wine he only opened one jar of for his son''s wedding, the old wine from before the Cataclysm, you know."


    Upon hearing Steward Fu''s words, Elder Tang couldn''t stop smiling.


    He stroked his graying beard, then proudly said, "It''s not my influence; it''s Fei Yatou''s influence."


    "Normally, if I asked for these two jars of old wine, Old Zhou would puff up his beard and glare, refusing to give them to me."


    "Today, with the joyful occasion of Fei Yatou advancing to Fourth-order, I just grabbed these two jars of wine and ran."


    "When he chased after me, I said the wine wasn''t for me but that Fei Yatou wanted to drink it. He hesitated for a long time but eventually didn''t catch up. Hahahaha."


    The "Old Zhou" and "Old Master Zhou" they referred to is another family patriarch from the Fengtian Faction: the Old Master of the Zhou Family.


    The core of the Fengtian Faction is composed of three major political families near the old site of the Eighth Sanctuary, "Fengtian City": the Tang family, Zhou Family, and Song Family.


    These three major political families were powerful century-old families even before the Cataclysm, possessing enormous strength. Although the great Cataclysm caused them to lose a significant portion of their power, their remaining strength is still formidable.


    Over the years, the unity among the three families, despite internal competition, has been benign. The three elders also have very good relations.


    However, normally, the three elders emanate a natural air of authority that can make people tremble with just a glance.


    They typically don''t joke around or laugh heartily.


    Today... such a childish demeanor is clearly because Tang Feifei has become a Domain Master and advanced to Fourth-order, which gave them hope for the faction''s future, making them genuinely happy...


    But as happy as the old master was, Tang Jiancha was somewhat sweating profusely.


    Telling him bad news when he''s at his happiest... S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Jiancha felt he really was scolded too little...


    He felt he shouldn''t have come tonight... He should have let the old master be happy tonight and come over tomorrow to talk.


    Now, isn''t this just upsetting the old master and himself?


    Thinking this, Tang Jiancha also somewhat regretted it.


    But... now that he was here, he definitely couldn''t just turn around and leave, which would raise more suspicion.


    So, he had no choice but to toughen up and called out, "Dad."


    In fact... as soon as Tang Jiancha arrived at the study door, Elder Tang had seen him.

 Chapter 673 - 376: The Tang Family Shaken! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    But seeing Tang Jiancha hastening his steps, with unstable breathing and a touch of restlessness, he had intentionally left him hanging.


    Now that he spoke, Elder Tang gradually reined in his smile, nodded slightly, grunted from his nose, and waved his hand, saying, "The second son has arrived? Come in."


    After he finished, he gestured to Steward Fu regarding those two jars of vintage wine.


    Steward Fu nodded slightly, quickly picked up the vintage wine, and walked out of the study to store it in the wine cellar.


    Once Steward Fu had left, Tang Jiancha fawningly poured Elder Tang a cup of tea and sheepishly began, "Dad, have some tea."


    Elder Tang didn''t take the tea but merely glanced at him coolly and asked, "Bad news?"


    How could Tang Jiancha say... He definitely couldn''t just blurt out about Tang Feifei, as that would only infuriate the old master.


    Thus, he hesitated for a moment before smiling and saying, "How could there be bad news."


    "Feifei has become the Domain Master, advancing to Fourth Order. This is cause for great celebration."


    Hearing this, Elder Tang gave him a deep look, took the small teacup, downed it in one gulp, and said indifferently, "Tell me... coming to see me so late, there must be something else, right?"


    Hearing this, Tang Jiancha coughed before saying, "Dad, now that Feifei has become the Domain Master, I think... maybe her position should be raised?"


    Elder Tang grunted from his nose nonchalantly and asked, "Is this your idea, Jiy¨¨''s idea, or Fei Yatou''s idea?"


    Tang Jiy¨¨ was Tang Jiancha''s elder brother and Tang Feifei''s father.


    Hearing this, Tang Jiancha hurriedly said, "Dad. It''s my idea."


    He sheepishly continued, "I suggest this because Feifei is currently rising rapidly, and it would be best if we could give her a hand."


    "You''ve also said that sometimes momentum is just like a breath of air. Once you ride on this breath, you rise."


    "Once the momentum fades, waiting for another opportunity can be difficult."


    "And besides... I''ve decided since the establishment of Dongye State and the appointment of five Speakers, it looks bad not having anyone from our ''Fengtian Faction''..."


    "Although it''s because our candidates are indeed a notch below. But... outsiders won''t think that way."


    "They will only think that our ''Fengtian Faction'' has fallen out of favor..."


    "And now, there''s a chance for Fei Yatou to become the Deputy Speaker, and if we push her forward and unify the ''Fengtian Faction,'' our situation can immediately turn around."


    Pausing here, Tang Jiancha added, "And most importantly¡­"


    "Feifei indeed has a promising future. But... she is still not polished enough."


    "If we stick to our original plan, letting Feifei stabilize and accumulate more for another two years in the position of Bureau Chief."


    "I think¡­ that''s not accumulation; rather, it''s a waste."


    "With her family background, status, and current strength, she won''t get any real training in Xinjie City."


    "It would be better to promote her to the state level, give her a bigger stage, stronger opponents, to refine her skills."


    In this world, everything has two sides, just like Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker.


    Whether positively or negatively spoken, both can be justified. It all depends on the perspective one takes...


    So after speaking, Tang Jiancha even began to believe his own reasoning.


    But... clearly, Old Master Tang did not. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He closed his eyes and pondered for a while before finally speaking, "Let''s discuss this tomorrow, I''ll talk to Jiy¨¨."


    "Although Fei Yatou is one of the future cores I have appointed, she is also his daughter, and he has the right to decide his daughter''s path."


    Hearing Elder Tang say this, Tang Jiancha quickly replied, "Okay, Dad."


    "Then I... won''t disturb your rest."


    After finishing, waiting until Elder Tang nodded, Tang Jiancha then got up and left the study.


    Watching his second son leave, Elder Tang expressionlessly picked up the desk phone and dialed a number.


    The next second, the call connected.


    Elder Tang, expressionless, said, "Check the second son''s call records to see if Fei Yatou has made any calls."


    "Yes!"


    "Also, check the current situation at the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau."


    "Yes."


    After hanging up, Elder Tang snorted lightly, then picked up his teacup and sipped his tea again...


    Meanwhile, after leaving his father''s house, Tang Jiancha ceaselessly started calling his elder brother.


    Speaking with his father was different; chatting with his elder brother, Tang Jiancha was much more relaxed.


    He got straight to the point and asked, "Big brother, what are you doing?"


    Tang Jiy¨¨, similar in temperament to Elder Tang and Tang Feifei, was also reserved and icy.


    So hearing Tang Jiancha speak, he responded coolly, "I''m looking at the equipment applications from the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau for this quarter."


    "I''m planning to approve some. This way, it''ll be easier for Feifei to work."


    Hearing his brother''s words, Tang Jiancha snorted, "Brother, you might as well quit it!"


    "I''m afraid with all the stuff you''re feeding Feifei, you''ll end up killing your son-in-law!"


    "Son-in-law?" The voice from the other end, Tang Jiy¨¨, asked with a slight furrow in his brow, "What son-in-law?"


    Seizing the moment that he had caught his elder brother''s attention, Tang Jiancha then spelled out the situation.


    By the end, he also offered his own evaluation.


    He said, "I''ve met Qiu Tu. How should I put it..."


    "Very capable and resourceful. But... not a good match."


    Tang Jiancha said with a somber look, "He''s a king who emerged from the bottom of the Planning Area. His heart is as hard as stone, merciless and ruthless."


    "Such a person is cruel and will stop at nothing to achieve his goals, and is insatiably greedy."

 Chapter 674 - 376: The Tang Family Shaken! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    "From this incident, one can see."


    "Fei Yatou, in order to bind him to her team, specifically used our ''Fengtian Faction'' resources to reserve a Deputy Director position for him."


    "Even though he made significant contributions during Fei Yatou''s rise to become the Domain Master, he should have been temporarily satisfied."


    "Once he fully settles into the Deputy Director position, then he can plan to move upwards."


    "But instead... he incited Fei Yatou to coerce her family, promoting her to Deputy Speaker, and helping him climb yet another level!"


    "This is really too much! How much more achievement does he need to not be content as a Deputy Director and still aspire to become the Bureau Chief!"


    "Fei Yatou is really brainwashed by him, agreeing to such demands!"


    After listening to Tang Jiancha''s words, Tang Jiye also furrowed his brow deeply.


    He pondered for a moment and then said, "I understand. I''ll pay attention to this matter."


    "Once father calls me, I''ll ask for his opinion then."


    He said, "But what Feifei mentioned is correct. Her value is now truly unique."


    "Even if she acts a bit willfully, we can only accept it."


    "So... I''ll try to persuade my father to agree to her request to be Deputy Speaker."


    "Afterwards, we''ll strategize long-term to see what exactly is going on between Qiu Tu and her, and whether Qiu Tu really used some underhanded tactics...."


    Thus, the two brothers chatted briefly before hanging up the phone.


    After hanging up the phone, Tang Jiye looked at the desk in front of him with an expression both joyless and sorrowless. After a moment, he picked up the phone and dialed, "Bring up all the information on Qiu Tu, the Deputy Director of Xinjie City Investigation Bureau. All of it..."


    ...


    A night without words.


    That night.


    Qiu Tu was summoned to the villa by Tang Feifei in the middle of the night, experiencing first-hand the might of a Fourth-order Cataclysmic.


    Facing the rapidly strengthening Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu grew solemn.


    Then he used his gaming experience from his past life! Starting with a hook, he struck a rigid blow, fiercely charging and unleashing his ultimate!


    A set of smooth combos! And then, he was sent away by Tang Feifei.


    The Fourth-order Cataclysmic was still too strong; Qiu Tu, relying on the Domain Master''s false frame and even though he was at the Third-Order Peak, was still not a match.


    Thus, after a fierce battle that continued until the early hours of the next day, the two of them slept deeply, not waking up until the afternoon.


    After washing up and enjoying some afternoon tea, the two went to the Investigation Bureau, one following the other.


    Right upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu received a strange message.


    "Inspector ''9527,'' I''m waiting for you at Fuxing Tea House. I have information of interest to you about Director Tang''s promotion to Deputy Speaker...."


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu, just seated in his 12th-floor Deputy Director office, was taken aback.


    Inspector 9527?


    Information about Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker?


    Knowing his identity, and also having information about Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker could only mean one person, Dai Yukang, the Director of Dongye State Security Bureau.


    But... has he returned to Xinjie City? And he wants to meet me?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered...


    In the past Xinjie City, the only ones who could exert pressure on him, making him feel uneasy, were two and a half persons.


    One was Yan Chen, half was Jia Shu. And the other was Dai Yukang...


    Although he had had limited contact with Dai Yukang, Qiu Tu had always felt slightly at a disadvantage during their few encounters.


    He was a king who had fought his way up from the bottom, with ruthless methods, skilled in manipulating people and using their forces against them.


    Although Qiu Tu''s dealings with Tang Feifei had been kept secretive, there''s no telling what he might have perceived and what he now intends to do...


    But it involves Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker.


    There could be some outcomes or changes in the Sanctuary or within the state.


    Qiu Tu must find out....


    -------


    -------


    A night without words.


    That night. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu was summoned to the villa by Tang Feifei late in the night, gaining a close understanding of the strength of a Fourth-order Cataclysmic.


    Facing the strengthening Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu grew solemn.


    Then he used his gaming experience from his past life! Starting with a hook, he struck a rigid blow, fiercely charging and unleashing his ultimate!


    A set of smooth combos! And then, he was sent away by Tang Feifei.


    The Fourth-order Cataclysmic was still too strong; Qiu Tu, relying on the Domain Master''s false frame and even though he was at the Third-Order Peak, was still not a match.


    Thus, after a fierce battle that continued until the early morning, the two of them slept deeply, not waking up until the afternoon.


    After washing up and enjoying some afternoon tea, the two went, one after the other, to the Investigation Bureau to work.


    Right upon arriving at the Investigation Bureau, Qiu Tu received a strange message.


    "Inspector ''9527,'' I''m waiting for you at Fuxing Tea House. I have information of interest to you about Director Tang''s promotion to Deputy Speaker...."


    Upon seeing this, Qiu Tu, just seated in his 12th-floor Deputy Director office, was taken aback.


    Inspector 9527?


    Information about Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker?


    Knowing his identity, and also having information about Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker could only mean one person, Dai Yukang, the Director of Dongye State Security Bureau.


    But... has he returned to Xinjie City? And he wants to meet me?


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu''s eyes flickered...


    In the past Xinjie City, the only ones who could exert pressure on him, making him feel uneasy, were two and a half persons.


    One was Yan Chen, half was Jia Shu. And the other was Dai Yukang...


    Although he had had limited contact with Dai Yukang, Qiu Tu had always felt slightly at a disadvantage during their few encounters.


    He was a king who had fought his way up from the bottom, with ruthless methods, skilled in manipulating people and using their forces against them.


    Although Qiu Tu''s dealings with Tang Feifei had been kept secretive, there''s no telling what he might have perceived and what he now intends to do...


    But it involves Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker.


    There could be some outcomes or changes in the Sanctuary or within the state.


    Qiu Tu must find out....


    -------

 Chapter 675 - 377

    So, this meeting was a must-attend for Qiu Tu.


    Thinking thus, he didn''t hesitate at all and promptly replied with a message using the communicator: "Okay."


    After sending the message, Qiu Tu rose to his feet, called for Tan Huimin and Shen Lingshuang, and headed straight out of the office door.


    Now that Tang Feifei was back at work, being the first Domain Master of the Eighth Sanctuary, the only Fourth-order catastrophe-evolver among the Members of Parliament, and with that exaggerated identity and background...


    Everyone knew that she was destined to stand on the highest stage in Dongye State.


    And as long as nothing went wrong, there would surely be a place for her in the highest echelon of the Sanctuary, the Supreme Council.


    Such status created a vast chasm between her and the other senior members of the Investigation Bureau, so any mid-level official with a bit of ambition would definitely want to build a good relationship with her and show off their abilities.


    Even if they were from opposing factions... just like how Elder Tang had supported Li Tingdong from the Free Democracy Faction to become the Deputy Speaker this time.


    There was not only competition but also cooperation and admiration among the Sanctuary factions.


    Sometimes, a single light word or an opinion from such an influential figure could be enough to change the fate of those below.


    Therefore, as soon as Tang Feifei returned to work in the afternoon, her office was bustling with people queued up to report to her.


    As for the front of Qiu Tu and Yu Zhengyi''s offices, it was deserted.


    But this made it more convenient for Qiu Tu to move around freely.


    Thinking this, he took Tan Huimin and Shen Lingshuang on the elevator down.


    Once they got to the car, Tan Huimin drove, with Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang in the back seat.


    Qiu Tu habitually rested his hand on Shen Lingshuang''s delicate leg and gently caressed it.


    Shen Lingshuang''s face flushed red, and then she glared at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu didn''t react.


    She glared again!


    Qiu Tu still had no reaction.


    She glared once more!


    Qiu Tu''s hand moved up her leg, towards the inside of her pants!


    Shen Lingshuang was startled and hurriedly pressed down on Qiu Tu''s playful hand.


    This time, Qiu Tu finally reacted. He winked at Shen Lingshuang with an almost smile.


    Shen Lingshuang showed her small canines, fierce yet cute! Perhaps afraid that Tan Huimin, who was driving, would notice their activity, she criticized Qiu Tu with the shape of her lips, "Too much!"


    Qiu Tu just smiled and then stopped deliberately teasing the young lady.


    He closed his eyes, leaned back in the seat, gently caressed Shen Lingshuang''s leg as before, and asked, "Have all the Evil God Clones been found?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu talking business, Shen Lingshuang stopped playing around and spoke seriously, "They''ve all been found. And we have confirmed their identities and started monitoring them."


    "A total of two Evil God Clones have infiltrated: Xie Yue and Whale Shark."


    In just a week, she had become more and more professional.


    But the youthful look on her face and the cute sound of her voice seemed to take something away from her report.


    She analyzed cutely, "When these Evil Gods look for a host to possess, they all seek a vessel similar to their original form."


    "The original form of Xie Yue is that of a child, so the host it possessed is the son of Deputy Director Wu."


    "And Whale Shark is a burly man, whose host is a captain in the Military Department Third Camp."


    "Minister Guan''s intelligence network is really powerful, which is why he was able to keenly spot their anomalies. After several rounds of investigation, their identities were confirmed."


    At this point, an unusual expression of admiration appeared on Shen Lingshuang''s face.


    Obviously, these past few days, learning from Guan Xiao, she had indeed learned a lot.


    Otherwise, with her proud temperament, she definitely would not praise a competitor.


    And hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu also slightly nodded his head.


    Guan Xiao''s ability to find two Evil God Clones among the millions of people in Xinjie City, akin to finding a needle in a haystack within one week, had already proven his strong capability.


    Such talent was sent to repay a superior.


    With him around, Qiu Tu would feel confident delegating many tasks to him. The only thing to watch out for was his loyalty.


    As long as his loyalty was not an issue, then the entire Political Department system would not be a problem.


    And regarding "loyalty"... don''t forget that Qiu Tu had the Loyalty Game.


    A clear quantification of subordinates'' loyalty was the core reason why he could develop and strengthen his faction so quickly during this period.


    So as long as he occasionally paid attention to the changes in Guan Xiao''s loyalty in the "Loyalty Game," he could control this talent.


    Of course, correspondingly, Qiu Tu would offer him a bright future.


    Thinking of the Loyalty Game, Qiu Tu also remembered his recent gains. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    During this time, he had salvaged several Cataclysmic Materials through the "Salvage Game," which were now idle.


    So, he turned to Shen Lingshuang beside him and said, "Right, I''ll give you some Cataclysmic Material tonight."


    "See if you can create some useful Cataclysmic treasures."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang responded, but she didn''t seem very excited.


    It was as if she had something on her mind, her gaze lowered, somewhat distracted.


    Seeing this, Qiu Tu furrowed his brows, then removed his hand from the girl''s leg, rubbed her head, and asked, "What''s wrong? Are you a bit tired recently and don''t feel like doing it?"


    Qiu Tu was thoughtful and lenient with his own people. If Shen Lingshuang didn''t want to do it, he wouldn''t force her.


    However, upon hearing Qiu Tu''s question, Shen Lingshuang quickly shook her head and then said, "No, It''s not that... It has nothing to do with making Cataclysmic treasures or Cataclysmic Potion."


    Saying this, she looked up, her eyes like those of a doe looking at Qiu Tu, then said, "Qiu Tu... actually, I was thinking about something."

 Chapter 676 - 377_2

    She crisply said, "You and Minister Guan''s line of thinking have no problem. The Evil God, in order to better influence Xinjie City and gather intelligence, usually infiltrates the three major institutions."


    "The clones of Whale Shark and Xie Yue have also confirmed your ideas."


    "But is there a possibility... that the Evil God could possess someone else and achieve similar objectives?"


    "Moreover, because it is not within the three major institutions, it is easier to hide and remain undetected."


    Hearing Shen Lingshuang''s words, Qiu Tu was stunned for a moment before his eyes flickered.


    He was an extremely intelligent man, and as soon as Shen Lingshuang mentioned it, he immediately realized.


    "Longshan Road!"


    Qiu Tu and Shen Lingshuang locked eyes.


    Seriousness was written all over Shen Lingshuang''s petite face as she nodded slightly.


    Qiu Tu even thought further. His mind whirled rapidly, and within moments, he was certain as he said, "Did you discover something?"


    Shen Lingshuang was clearly a bit surprised by Qiu Tu''s quick reaction.


    But she still hesitated and nodded.


    Although the young girl was always proud and confident, she was still a bit unsure in areas outside her expertise.


    She cutely said, "I don''t know if I''m overthinking this¡­"


    She said, "Do you remember the day you returned home, Xiao Bai was guarding outside?"


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly.


    He recalled, "I remember that as soon as Xiao Bai saw me, he bit me, and then you came out asking ''Has that person arrived?''" (Chapter 370)


    Upon saying this, a look of realization dawned on Qiu Tu''s face as he said, "The person you were referring to wasn''t me?"


    Shen Lingshuang nodded.


    With a wrinkled nose, she earnestly said, "Actually... I''ve been feeling something was off these few days."


    ------------


    As he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then loosened the belt around her waist.


    The next second, her bathrobe slid off, revealing a body as delicate and sculpted as white jade in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu...


    Qiu Tu admitted that at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to have sped up for an instant.


    But after all, he was a proper person, and he even had a philosophy book to read tonight!


    So, he lowered his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then he continued reading!


    "Fuck ''Existence,'' the true meaning of ''Existence'' is in Cao currency!"


    Thinking such extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting thoughts, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed, and amid Fang Tangtang''s shriek, he picked her up and pressed her down on the bed¡­


    Blue Moon''s cheeks blushed as it brought dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought passionately until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to really immerse herself into the role of girlfriend, and even though Qiu Tu noticed her furrowing her brow a few times¡ªthe previous day''s "injury" clearly hadn''t healed¡ªshe still earnestly swayed her body, cooperating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable the Facial Cleanser, commonly used by the common people, truly was...


    "Facial Cleanser is indeed better when used personally!"


    With this thought, Qiu Tu also imparted all he knew to Fang Tangtang, enlightening her...


    After all, as the deputy head of the Political Department, he already had a quota for eliminating people.


    She couldn''t quite comprehend the feeling. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It just seemed incredibly comfortable...


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off her bath towel, and pressed her under him!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never felt before...


    That utterly different pleasure made her want to use her shoulders to block Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, attempting to call for a halt.


    But Qiu Tu was holding her front, one hand pressing on her shoulder, turning her into a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His dominating demeanor made it almost impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially when...each time she could hardly stand it and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the agreement?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly speaking, being strong-willed from childhood, she could hardly accept this unilateral "thrashing!"


    Several times, she wanted to turn from a peasant into a revolutionary folk singer!


    But...she was, after all, a person of her word.


    So...even though she internally cursed herself numerous times for agreeing to Qiu Tu too hastily! During that day and night, she really didn''t initiate contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him...


    Only secretly exerting force!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, really put in some tough work.


    He knew that to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, giving her barely any breaks!


    Like this, they struggled on into the night until they finally embraced and fell into a deep sleep, and by then, that 200-square-meter lounge, every room, was already full of traces of their skirmish...


    On the verge of dozing off, Qiu Tu also reflected in his heart: Tang Feifei was truly tenacious and wild!


    If it weren''t for advancing to become a Cataclysmic, greatly strengthening his body, plus forbidding Tang Feifei from becoming the dominant party...


    He guessed... after this ordeal, his back would be retiring...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1 and a half days (dangers in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next day, along with the first rays of morning sunlight.


    Qiu Tu slowly awakened from deep sleep.


    His instinct was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his hand, he felt pain in his arms and back.

 Chapter 677 - 377_3

    "Ouch!"


    Yan Chen drew in a sharp breath of cool air and then woke up amidst the soreness, examining his arm, only to belatedly remember the glorious achievements of the previous day and night.


    Thinking about how hard he had worked yesterday, burying himself in his tasks, and thinking of Tang Feifei, who was nearly broken from the ordeal, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back would probably be out of commission from now on.


    With this thought, he shifted his thigh slightly, his soreness shooting up to his crown.


    "Forget it, might as well light one for Yue Kua as well, probably ruined...."


    Silently sighing over the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached beside him, only to realize that there was no one beside him anymore, leaving only a faint scent of jasmine...


    Though he knew well that the relationship between the two was just a transaction, in that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    "Even if there''s no merit, wasn''t there hard work?"


    "They really know how to cut ties fast, don''t they!"


    And just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei, barefoot, bare legged, and unclothed, carried a bowl of medicine towards him.


    Her legs were long and her body curved beautifully, seemingly containing infinite explosive power and resilience.


    With every step, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard stealthily sprinting through the jungle, each of her steps full of power and rhythm.


    Reaching Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to place the medicine down and said coldly, "Drink this. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... as the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" takes shape, the establishment date of the Dongye State Council might be advanced again. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At that time, he would likely confront the threat from Huang Shangzong.


    Thus, before that happened, Qiu Tu had to improve his position and strengthen his power as much as possible,


    Among the deputy ministers of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie belonged to the "Iron-Blood Faction," Zhou Jingfu belonged to the "Reformist Faction," and Meng Sanzhai belonged to the "Fengtian Faction."


    According to the information Yan Chen had given, apart from Meng Sanzhai, the others should have no connection with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking this, he involuntarily looked at Ouyang Heng sitting next to him; Ouyang Heng belonged to the "Free Democracy Faction" and also had no relation to Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four individuals supported Qiu Tu!


    Moreover, among these four, Meng Sanzhai of the "Fengtian Faction," who was the most laissez-faire, simply expressed his support for Qiu Tu without saying much.


    Truly an "Evil God," just speaking out makes others feel comfortable.


    Charm is like a bone-carving knife, but as everyone knows, we people from Zhejiang are born with hard bones.


    Gripping the steering wheel tightly makes driving much more fun¡ªit seems my sister-in-law is a bit anxious.


    A mountain is a hugely slow geological era wave.


    Charm? Not sure, but the flowers are blooming vividly, and it would seem like I lacked appreciation for beauty if I didn''t enjoy them.


    Thinking this and after successfully increasing Larilo''s loyalty, Qiu Tu no longer interacted much with Larilo.


    ------


    "To comply with procedures, and to avoid unnecessary dreams, we''ll capture Eagle as soon as the Speaker officially takes office."


    ---------


    After receiving Qiu Tu''s nod, Guan Xiao looked at him peculiarly before inquiring, "Chief... you don''t seem surprised by this intelligence?"


    Her voice carried a bit of puzzlement, "Don''t you find this intelligence crucial?"


    "No encouragement? No praise?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile. He nodded and said, "What Section Chief Guan said is right."


    "You from the Intelligence Section have made such significant contributions; indeed, you should be properly acknowledged."


    "Once this case is solved and those members of the Alliance Special Forces are eradicated, I''ll petition the higher-ups on your behalf."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Guan Xiao''s seductive eyes took a deep look at him and then said, "Chief... I''m not sure if it''s just a feeling."


    "I get the impression... that you knew about the Alliance Special Forces before I did?"


    Hearing Guan Xiao''s words, Qiu Tu leaned back in his chair, responding with a light smile, "Really?"


    "Then..."


    "You might be right."


    Qiu Tu''s response made Guan Xiao''s eyes widen slightly.


    After years of studying and working in the intelligence system, Guan Xiao had long developed an ability and habit of gathering intelligence at any moment. This also made her particularly sensitive to certain emotional cues.


    Thus, when she finished giving the briefing on the Alliance Special Forces, Qiu Tu didn''t exhibit any shock or urgency, which allowed her to detect something was off.


    However, even though her intuition guessed that Qiu Tu might also be aware of this intelligence, she firmly didn''t believe it rationally.


    After all, her intelligence had been painfully and dangerously gathered by spies.

 Chapter 678 - 378: Deputy Speaker Tang Feifei! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    Thinking this over, Qiu Tu''s mind raced as he speculated about the purpose of the Tang family sending Guo Huai this time.


    Was he here to understand the situation?


    Was he here to persuade me to leave Tang Feifei?


    Or did he see potential in me and want to recruit me into the family?


    It couldn''t be... that they had already guessed I was the true Domain Master and wanted to collaborate with me, could it?


    Perhaps detecting Qiu Tu guessing his purpose, Guo Huai sat upright in his chair and slowly poured himself a cup of tea...


    As the tea gurgled into the cup, Guo Huai began to speak slowly, "Don''t be nervous."


    "I come with no ill will."


    He said, "Just like the text message I sent you, I''m here to inform you of crucial intelligence."


    After a moment, when he had finished pouring, Guo Huai lifted the teapot and set it aside. He sat looking at Qiu Tu calmly and said, "The matter of Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker was settled this morning."


    "By tonight, or at the latest tomorrow morning, Xinjie City will receive the related notice."


    He said expressionlessly, "But... this promotion has met with strong opposition from Huang Shangzong and Li Tingdong."


    "Both believe that with Dongye State''s recent establishment and ongoing development, a new Deputy Speaker should not be added so quickly."


    "This could impact the overall stability of Dongye State just now."


    "It is just... because Elder Tang pressed the issue, and Tang Feifei indeed met the stringent requirements for the Deputy Speaker position, in the end, the appointment was passed."


    Having said this, Guo Huai picked up his teacup, took a sip, and looked at Qiu Tu with a profound gaze.


    "But... in the end, Huang Shangzong and Li Tingdong still made two demands."


    "First, Tang Feifei would have only a nominal title without any real power."


    "Even though she can become Deputy Speaker, she is not able to divide power from the current Deputy Speakers."


    "Second... Tang Feifei must make political achievements within half a year to contribute to Dongye State and prove her capabilities."


    "This kind of achievement includes, but is not limited to, aspects such as public welfare, security, economy, military, and more."


    If someone else heard this, they would mostly feel that Huang Shangzong and Li Tingdong were deliberately making it difficult for Tang Feifei, giving her missions that were impossible to complete.


    After all... giving Tang Feifei a role with no actual power indicates that she has no sphere in Dongye State to utilize her abilities.


    She is like rootless Fuping, without subordinates, without structure.


    Under such circumstances, she is simply unable to do anything, let alone accomplish achievements.


    But... hearing this in Qiu Tu''s ears gave him a different taste.


    A hint of deep thought flashed in his eyes, then he looked at Guo Huai and asked, "Is this Huang Shangzong and Li Tingdong demanding resources from the ''Fengtian Faction''?"


    Seeing that Qiu Tu had unraveled the mystery so quickly, a flash of admiration crossed Guo Huai''s eyes once more.


    He did not deny it but nodded seriously, "Yes."


    "Huang Shangzong and Li Tingdong know that with the strength of the ''Fengtian Faction,'' it is too easy to help Tang Feifei achieve political success."


    "So, they sideline her from interfering in any affairs of Dongye State but still demand that she shows political merits."


    "In fact, they are demanding external resources from the ''Fengtian Faction,'' letting Tang Feifei start from scratch to access these resources to make accomplishments and enhance Dongye State''s strength."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly, just as he had speculated: in the hands of top politicians, there are no personal grudges or impulsive reactions, only interests. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Tang Feifei met the promotion requirements and had the ''Fengtian Faction''s backing¡ªunstoppable.


    So, all of Huang Shangzong''s and Li Tingdong''s tactics ultimately aim to gain benefits.


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but curiously ask, "But what does this have to do with me?"


    "What kind of deal are you planning to make with me?"


    Guo Huai meticulously lifted his teacup for a sip then said, "Of course, it relates to you."


    "Because... this time, Tang Feifei''s aggressive move against the family has angered Elder Tang."


    "Elder Tang ultimately chose to support Tang Feifei''s promotion to Deputy Speaker but has forbidden the ''Fengtian Faction'' from providing her with any more resources."


    "The title of Deputy Speaker is granted to her, but whether she can keep it is now up to her."


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu was slightly startled. Then he couldn''t help but look at Guo Huai.


    Sensing that look from Qiu Tu, Guo Huai inwardly sighed again at how keen Qiu Tu''s perceptions were.


    He nodded slightly, affirming Qiu Tu''s guess.


    "That''s correct, my visit is on behalf of Member of Parliament Tang Jiye."


    "He hopes to strike a deal with you. Help Tang Feifei achieve this political goal."


    "In exchange, he will vacate the position of Xinjie City Bureau Chief for you, allowing you to act with the powers of the Bureau Chief during this half-year."


    "Whether you have the ability to make it permanent, that will depend on your own capabilities."


    Hearing Guo Huai''s words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but laugh.


    He... finally understood the game.


    Indeed, it was a deal, but it was completely different from what Guo Huai had described.


    To put it clearly... the Tang family and Huang Shangzong, Li Tingdong were no different.


    They all recognized that Tang Feifei''s promotion couldn''t be stopped, so they simply shifted their thought process, hoping to use this event to gain more "interests."


    Or rather... they wanted to test Qiu Tu''s mettle.


    They wanted to see, without the Tang family''s support, what kind of resources and political achievements Qiu Tu could secure for Tang Feifei.

 Chapter 679 - 378: Deputy Speaker Tang Feifei! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    Qiu Tu speculated that the Tang family should have already prepared the resources to help Tang Feifei achieve her political accomplishments. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If Qiu Tu could not help Tang Feifei, they could easily come in and fill the hole.


    Then they would let Tang Feifei see Qiu Tu''s "true colors" and prevent her from being "brainwashed" by Qiu Tu anymore.


    The advantage of this approach is that they do not need to conflict with Tang Feifei, trigger her rebelliousness, nor do they need to spend time persuading her.


    Everything just requires Tang Feifei to see and experience for herself.


    And if Qiu Tu could provide the resources for Tang Feifei to accomplish her political achievements,


    then they would benefit even more: Tang Feifei being able to secure the position of Deputy Speaker was, in itself, a victory for the Fengtian Faction.


    Moreover, the Fengtian Faction would save the resources that were to be used to help Tang Feifei, which could be allocated to other key figures they were cultivating.


    And maybe... they might even win back a capable or resourceful son-in-law.


    How could this not be considered a grand profit?


    Therefore, when Qiu Tu figured out the Tang family''s intentions, he couldn''t help but exclaim in admiration: what effortless grace and style of the greats.


    Such a maneuver was definitely not something that people like Tang Jiancha could come up with. It must have been crafted by Tang Feifei''s father, or even Elder Tang himself.


    And furthermore... it was a stratagem in plain sight.


    They are not afraid of Qiu Tu seeing through the ruse. Whether he sees through it or not, if Qiu Tu wants Tang Feifei to be promoted and himself to become the Acting Bureau Chief, he must respond.


    There was simply no other choice.


    After all, he had already tied himself to Tang Feifei.


    ''Great master indeed....''


    However... it was precisely because of grappling with a master that it was interesting.


    So, Qiu Tu smiled, picked up the teacup in front of him, drained it in one gulp, and then said, "Fine. I accept this deal!"


    "Wait for our good news."


    After finishing, Qiu Tu couldn''t be bothered to continue chatting with Guo Huai.


    He had realized that Guo Huai was indeed as steady as Tang Feifei had described him.


    Stable like an old tortoise, almost revealing no flaws, proceeding step by step.


    Although there might not be any great accomplishments, there wouldn''t be any mistakes either; it was a dignified rolling forward....


    Frankly... Qiu Tu was most annoyed by such opponents. After all, he was too weak at the moment; upon encountering a powerful enemy, he must look for loopholes.


    But Guo Huai was precisely the type to completely outplay him. Instead of wasting time with Guo Huai here, he might as well think of ways to help Tang Feifei achieve her political accomplishments....


    .....


    Meanwhile, after Qiu Tu had left, Guo Huai remained meticulously seated there.


    He quietly picked up his teacup and drank down its contents.


    Only then did he take out a specially made communicator and make a call.


    After a while, the call connected.


    Only then did Guo Huai respectfully say to the person on the other end, "Elder Tang, I have met with Qiu Tu."


    Elder Tang on the phone answered with a faint "Hmm," and then inquired, "What''s your assessment?"


    After pondering, Guo Huai spoke impartially, "He''s quick-witted, realizing many things without needing hints."


    "Very capable and also bold, willing to take responsibility."


    Hearing Guo Huai''s words, Elder Tang chuckled and jested, "You rate him quite highly."


    Guo Huai replied calmly, "Not at all. Actually... I don''t like him very much."


    "Because his personality is the opposite of mine. He obviously likes to take an unconventional approach."


    At this point, Guo Huai paused, as if something occurred to him, and then added softly, "If Li Tingdong met him, he would probably like him a lot."


    "They share similar characters."


    Hearing this, Elder Tang went silent for a moment.


    Then, he said earnestly, "Guo Huai... I am aware of your abilities and have high hopes for you."


    "This time, not becoming the Deputy Speaker was not your fault. You must keep a proper mindset and continue to wait for opportunities."


    "Just like Feifei''s case this time, becoming the Deputy Speaker prematurely doesn''t necessarily mean it''s a good thing."


    "Stepping forward too soon might lead to unforeseen pressures."


    "Sometimes, taking time to sharpen oneself may allow one to walk further and more steadily in the future."


    Upon hearing this, Guo Huai immediately responded respectfully, "Yes, Elder Tang."


    Elder Tang paused, then added, "Of course... there seems to be something off about Feifei''s matter."


    "From your description, that young man named Qiu Tu does not seem like someone who is ruthless in climbing up the ladder to the extent of even sacrificing Feifei''s future."


    "So... there might be more to it."


    Concluding, he instructed, "Guo Huai, pay close attention to them in Dongye State. Report back to me anytime there''s any news."


    Hearing Elder Tang''s words, Guo Huai promptly accepted the order.


    And so, the two exchanged a few more words casually and ended the call.


    After hanging up the phone, Guo Huai sat quietly in the teahouse for a while, drinking another cup of tea, and then picked up the communicator again, dialing a number.


    Shortly, the number connected, and Guo Huai called out, "Shouye."


    Clearly, he was reaching out to Tang Feifei''s second uncle, Tang Shouye.


    Then, Guo Huai recounted the entire conversation he had with Qiu Tu to Tang Jiancha.


    Compared to Elder Tang''s insight, Tang Jiancha was clearly lacking.


    He said somewhat resentfully, "Well, it''s good that this kid knows his place! He agreed to the deal!"


    "If he had refused, then that would have really shown that Feifei was blind!"


    "The major reason why Feifei wants to become the Deputy Speaker is to create an opening for him."


    "Now let''s see what he plans to do next."

 Chapter 680 - 378 Deputy Speaker Tang Feifei! (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)_3

    Hearing Tang Jiancha''s words, Guo Huai fell into a brief contemplation before speaking highly of Qiu Tu, "Although I''ve only met him once, I think Qiu Tu is the kind of person who remembers and repays kindness."


    "He surely can''t be oblivious to the sacrifices Feifei has made for him. He will treat Feifei well."


    Guo Huai wouldn''t have brought this up, but no sooner had he spoken than Tang Jiancha hurriedly said, "No, no, no. That''s something you can only say to me. Don''t ever say that to my brother."


    "My brother might have not shown it on his face, but he''s been gloomy all day."


    "I heard that last night, he directly pulled Qiu Tu''s files and related intelligence from several information departments."


    "After reading them, his face turned dark."


    "I heard that if he wasn''t so caught up with official duties, he would have already killed his way to Xinjie City by now."


    Guo Huai clearly didn''t understand. He hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Why?"


    Tang Jiancha spoke nonchalantly, "Not sure. Probably has something to do with women..."


    ...


    Just like that.


    A day quickly passed by.


    In the evening, blockbuster news traveled from the state to Xinjie City.


    "After deliberation by the Sanctuary, Tang Feifei''s position as Acting Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has been revoked, promoting her to Deputy Speaker of the Dongye State Council."


    When this news was released, the entirety of Xinjie City was shocked.


    Everyone knew that, given Tang Feifei''s abilities, status as Domain Master, and the support from her background, it was only a matter of time before she would become the Deputy Speaker!


    But this day had arrived too soon!


    So soon that everyone felt it was a bit rushed.


    After all, Tang Feifei was a genuine descendant of a founding family, and her grandfather held the "Founding Stock" of the Sanctuary.


    She didn''t need to fight and claw for each level like those at the bottom.


    She just needed to advance step by step, steadily.


    Getting promoted too quickly could actually cause problems.


    Yet, Tang Fei was promoted just like that.


    What was even more peculiar: After Tang Feifei was stripped of her Acting Chief position, there was unexpectedly no one to take over.


    How important a city''s Bureau Chief position is¡ªit''s one of the Three Giants, after all. So many people were eying this spot.


    Now, it was vacant?


    This bizarre yet familiar phenomenon inevitably led to a bold guess among the people: was this, perhaps, being held for someone?


    And just as the appointment notice was sent to the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau,


    Qiu Tu was in Tang Feifei''s office, explaining the plan for what comes next to her.


    Looking at Tang Feifei, he said, "Now... you have successfully obtained the Deputy Speaker position."


    "But... our plan is only half-completed at this point."


    "Next, our most important mission is to clear out those Evil Gods that have infiltrated Xinjie."


    "And to hunt down at least one of them."


    "To ensure the success of this plan, our collective strength is still insufficient."


    "Right now, in terms of Fourth Rank Combat Power, there''s only you. We are still a few hands short."


    As he said this, Qiu Tu looked at Tang Feifei and spoke earnestly, "For example, me..."


    "In these past few days, I''ve been feeling the power of the ''False Frame'' of the Domain Master growing stronger and stronger."


    "It''s getting increasingly difficult to suppress."


    "Therefore, I''m preparing to advance to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic as soon as possible."


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Tang Feifei looked over with complex emotions filling her beautiful eyes.


    To be truthful, she did suspect that Qiu Tu might break through to the fourth order, but... she never imagined it would be so soon.


    There was a time when she couldn''t even see Qiu Tu''s shadow.


    But now... Just as she''d advanced to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu was poised to follow suit?


    -------


    2 chapters, 10,000 words, ah! I''m asking for your Monthly Tickets!


    --------


    Guo Huai was clearly puzzled. He hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Why?"


    Tang Jiancha spoke nonchalantly, "Not sure. Probably has something to do with women..."


    ...


    Just like that.


    A day quickly passed by.


    In the evening, blockbuster news traveled from the state to Xinjie City.


    "After deliberation by the Sanctuary, Tang Feifei''s position as Acting Chief of the Xinjie City Investigation Bureau has been revoked, promoting her to Deputy Speaker of the Dongye State Council."


    When this news was released, the entirety of Xinjie City was shocked.


    Everyone knew that, given Tang Feifei''s abilities, status as Domain Master, and the support from her background, it was only a matter of time before she would become the Deputy Speaker!


    But this day had arrived too soon!


    So soon that everyone felt it was a bit rushed.


    After all, Tang Feifei was a genuine descendant of a founding family, and her grandfather held the "Founding Stock" of the Sanctuary.


    She didn''t need to fight and claw for each level like those at the bottom.


    She just needed to advance step by step, steadily.


    Getting promoted too quickly could actually cause problems.


    Yet, Tang Fei was promoted just like that.


    What was even more peculiar: After Tang Feifei was stripped of her Acting Chief position, there was unexpectedly no one to take over. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How important a city''s Bureau Chief position is¡ªit''s one of the Three Giants, after all. So many people were eying this spot.


    Now, it was vacant?


    This bizarre yet familiar phenomenon inevitably led to a bold guess among the people: was this, perhaps, being held for someone?

 Chapter 681 - 379

    "To be honest, such a rate of growth is truly unprecedented for Tang Feifei, unseen and unheard of.


    Sometimes, she even suspected that the Qiu Tu before her... was not the Qiu Tu from before, but instead a reincarnation of an evil god or a powerful being, having taken over a body?


    Otherwise, how could he possibly improve so quickly?


    Moreover... although she and Qiu Tu have always maintained a tacit understanding, their relationship was ultimately too intimate, many things, even if Tang Feifei did not want to delve into, she would always notice something.


    She also discovered that Qiu Tu always had more Cataclysmic treasures and Cataclysmic Material in his possession than his identity and background should allow.


    Or she found that Qiu Tu always knew some secrets that someone of his status should not be aware of.


    It was for this reason that, at one point, Tang Feifei had also worried whether Qiu Tu was an evil god who came to tempt her?


    So, she took advantage of several opportunities when they were refueling to try and "inquire" into Qiu Tu.


    The result, of course, was good. Qiu Tu was just an ordinary human.


    And his rapid growth over the last six months was all the fruit of his own efforts.


    While this dispelled Tang Feifei''s doubts, it also made her admire this young man before her even more....


    And now, when she realized that this young man was finally going to catch up to her, inexplicably, Tang Feifei suddenly felt as if she was witnessing the rise of a legend.


    She remembered that her grandfather, when she was a child, stroking her head, had said,


    "Some people are born to be the protagonists. They are like meteors, illuminating the entire era''s dark sky with their incredibly dazzling brilliance.


    They may flash by in an instant, or they may become the Rising Sun that hangs forever in the Skyline!


    These people are born to change the era, to change the whole world.


    It''s hard to follow in their footsteps, and hard to always be by their side. But you can always look up to them, see how they change the color of the mountains and rivers, how they turn the pages of history to a new chapter!"


    At that time, Tang Feifei really didn''t understand what her grandfather meant, so she curiously asked how she would know if she had met such a person?


    Elder Tang just smiled and said, "When you meet them, you will know for yourself that you''ve encountered an extraordinary person."


    At that time, Tang Feifei still didn''t quite grasp the meaning of Elder Tang''s words, but today... inexplicably, she understood.


    Although she didn''t know whether Qiu Tu was a "meteor" or a "fixed star", he was indeed born to be the protagonist, and he was writing his own legend.


    Thinking so, Tang Feifei slowly came back to her senses. She looked up at Qiu Tu, who was still explaining his plan.


    Under the dim light, Qiu Tu''s face with sharp and distinct features, shone with intersecting light and shadow, which did not diminish his handsomeness and charm at all. On the contrary, it added a bit of majesty and mystery.


    "Feifei, this time in our operation against the evil god, it''s not just about our transaction."


    "You might not know, this afternoon, Guo Huai sought me out."


    The slightly distracted Tang Feifei was taken aback at these words, and then she immediately snapped back to attention. She looked at Qiu Tu and asked coolly, "What did Guo Huai want with you?" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu said, "He came as a representative of your father or your grandfather, to make a deal."


    "A deal?" Tang Feifei was somewhat puzzled.


    She was currently making a deal with Qiu Tu, and now her father and grandfather were also making a deal?


    Is Qiu Tu that attractive?


    Qiu Tu "Hmm"ed, saying, "And it''s a deal concerning you."


    After saying that, Qiu Tu recounted in great detail the encounter he had with Guo Huai that afternoon to Tang Feifei.


    The more Tang Feifei listened, the more she frowned.


    By the time Qiu Tu finished speaking, Tang Feifei took a deep breath, her eyes filled with resoluteness.


    Her gaze sharp, she said seriously, "Qiu Tu, this matter has nothing to do with you."


    "Our transaction only entails you helping me to become a Fourth-order Catastrophe-evolver."


    "Whether it''s becoming the Deputy Speaker or securing the Deputy Speaker position, that''s my business, and it has nothing to do with you."


    "And making you the Acting Bureau Chief is my commitment. It is also part of the deal, and I will handle it."


    "I won''t allow you to add more chips to the bargaining table."


    Hearing Tang Feifei''s words, Qiu Tu just laughed.


    He said, "Feifei, I know you''re anxious, don''t get ahead of yourself."


    He looked at the woman in front of him, one of those he was closest to, and then said, "I ask you, as a nominal Deputy Speaker, what political achievements do you need to secure your position?"


    Tang Feifei hesitated for a moment, her wheat-colored face showing uncertainty.


    To tell the truth... her talent was mainly focused on fighting and killing. Although she was not bad at the art of politics, she was nowhere near the likes of Qiu Tu or Yan Chen, who were old and sly.


    As for economic development, advancing Dongye State, and gathering Cataclysmic Material, indeed she was not up to the task.


    She could lead troops to wash out the Anti-government Armed Forces like the United Front, but... after becoming the nominal Deputy Speaker, she had no military power at all, and was completely unable to lead troops.


    So, for a moment, she really couldn''t think of how to solve this problem.


    Of course... she dared to say she didn''t need Qiu Tu to add chips and promised to fulfill her commitment to Qiu Tu.


    Because she knew that although she could not do any of these things. But she had the biggest chip: herself.


    With her status as the "Domain Master", the first from the Eighth Sanctuary, and her Fourth-order strength,


    As long as she took a firm stand, the Tang family had to provide resources even if they didn''t want to, and even if they didn''t want to make Qiu Tu the Acting Bureau Chief, they had to.


    So she was just about to share her thoughts with Qiu Tu.

 Chapter 682 - 379_2

    As a result, just at this moment, Qiu Tu cut her off, saying, "Don''t always think about using yourself to threaten your family."


    "I made a deal with you, not to plan for you to break with your family."


    Qiu Tu paused, then said in a softer tone, "And... to put it bluntly."


    "The reason I collaborate with you is not only because of our relationship but also because I value the ''Fengtian Faction''s'' background and strength."


    "If you make things too ugly with your own family, or even come to a break, then our future deals will be very difficult to continue."


    At this point, Qiu Tu brought the conversation back on track. He leaned back in his chair and then said, with a strategic flair, "Moreover... helping you secure the position of Deputy Speaker doesn''t conflict with our deal at all."


    He continued, "You are a nominal Deputy Speaker. You weren''t given any scope of work, so you have no right to intervene in any affairs of the state."


    "But!" Qiu Tu''s tone shifted, "It also means that your political achievements can come from anywhere!"


    Though Qiu Tu hadn''t spelled it out completely, Tang Feifei was startled at this point, her eyes then revealing a dawning comprehension.


    She cautiously said...


    "So... developing the economy counts as an achievement, as does expanding territory. Then... does assassinating a Fourth-Order Evil God also count as an achievement?!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and nodded. He said, "Don''t forget, the reason Liu Xiongyuan, Ye Mingfeng, and Dai Yukang, the three former Deputy Speakers, were able to rise to their positions, was in large part due to the assassination of the Evil God Larilo!"


    "And if we really can succeed in assassinating Whale Shark or Xie Yue, how could that not be considered your political achievement?"


    "Killing an Evil God, defending Xinjie City, and freeing another city from the infiltration of an Evil God. This is the greatest political achievement of all."


    Listening to Qiu Tu, Tang Feifei finally understood Qiu Tu''s idea. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Actually... Qiu Tu was exploiting a disparity in information.


    Tang Feifei was a faux Domain Master; to truly become the Domain Master, she had to kill another Evil God again.


    So, assassinating an Evil God was already part of their deal and plan.


    But... viewed from the perspective of the Sanctuary and the state: Tang Feifei had already become the Domain Master, so there was no need for a direct conflict with an Evil God.


    As long as they bought time to slowly assimilate the Xinjie Territory or found a way to drive the Evil God out of Xinjie City, it would be enough.


    Under these circumstances, Tang Feifei couldn''t possibly attempt to assassinate the True Body of an Evil God.


    So... indeed, as Qiu Tu had said: all this was part of the deal with Tang Feifei.


    Even if the Tang family hadn''t come looking, they would have acted this way.


    And since the Tang family did come looking... by acting this way afterwards, they essentially gained even more benefits.


    It was like killing two birds with one stone, effortlessly earning merit and affection.


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    A Dad-Copywriter''s Road Story, the tale of a widowed father taking his daughter and sister-in-law on a journey.


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    Just as he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face and then untied her waistband.


    The next second, the bathrobe slid off, revealing in front of Qiu Tu a body as white as jade, exquisitely carved and chiseled.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu admitted, at that moment, his heartbeat seemed to quicken for an instant.


    But after all, he was a person of propriety. And he still had to read this philosophy book tonight!


    So, he bowed his head to look at the book "Existence" in his hands, once, twice... and then he continued reading!


    ''To hell with "Existence", the meaning of ''Existence'' lies in Cao currency!''


    Thinking such an extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting thought, Qiu Tu leaped out of bed and, amid Fang Tangtang''s cries of surprise, scooped her up and then pinned her down on the bed....


    Blue Moon blushed and brought dark clouds to cover her face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang battled until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang seemed to really throw herself into the role of girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed several times she furrowed her brow, the "injury" from the day before clearly not fully healed, but she still seriously swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu....


    And Qiu Tu once again experienced how soft and comfortable Facial Cleanser was when near to an ordinary person...


    "Facial Cleanser is indeed best when kept to oneself!"


    With this thought, Qiu Tu also unreservedly instructed Fang Tangtang, teaching and solving her doubts....


    After all, as Deputy Chief of the Political Department, he did have a quota for killing.


    She didn''t quite understand the feeling.


    It just felt very comfortable....


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her too much time to think.


    He pressed Tang Feifei to the ground, ripped off the towel from her body, and loomed over her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a sensation she had never felt with Liu Fuping....


    The utterly different pleasure made her want to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi''s Mouth, attempting to call for a stop.


    But Qiu Tu kept one hand on her front and the other pressed on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    The domineering attitude left Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially... each time she was about to break and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, Qiu Tu would lean close to her ear and say in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the contract?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, the strong-willed her definitely could not accept this one-sided "beating"!


    Several times she wanted to turn over and sing the song of the peasant uprising!


    But... she was, after all, a person of her word.


    So... even if she cursed herself countless times for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu, throughout that day and night, she really didn''t initiate contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist him....

 Chapter 683 - 379_3

    He was secretly exerting all his strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time, had really put in some tough kung fu.


    He knew that if he wanted to conquer the woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung to Tang Feifei dearly, hardly giving her a chance to rest!


    Eventually, they struggled on until deep into the night. Only then did the two embrace each other and fall into a deep sleep, and by that time, the over 200-square-foot rest area and every room were already filled with traces of their battle....


    As he was about to drift off to sleep, Qiu Tu also reflected sentimentally in his heart: Tang Feifei is truly strong! And truly wild!


    If he hadn''t advanced to become a Cataclysmic, with his body greatly strengthened, and forbid Tang Feifei from taking the upper hand!


    He guessed... after this bout, his back would have had to announce its retirement...


    [4 and a half days (Yin Caimei case closing time)]


    [1 and a half days (Danger in the darkness)]


    ...


    The next day, along with the first ray of sunlight in the early morning,


    Qiu Tu slowly woke from his deep sleep.


    His initial reaction was to rub his eyes, but as he raised his hand, he felt his arms and back ache with soreness!


    "Hiss!" S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qiu Tu sucked in a breath of cold air, then came to his senses amidst the soreness, checking his arm before belatedly recalling yesterday''s glorious achievements through the whole day and night.


    Thinking of himself, who had toiled so hard yesterday that he knew nothing but hard work, and of Tang Feifei who was also almost torn apart, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    Feeling that his back might not be usable in the future.


    With that thought, he slightly moved his thigh again, the soreness piercing straight to his cranial apex.


    ''Forget it, let''s light another for Yue Kua as well, probably done for too...''


    Reflecting silently on the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached out beside him, only then realizing that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a faint fragrance of jasmine...


    Although he had known from the start that it was just a transaction between the two of them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a twinge of disappointment.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there should be hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much of a cold shoulder!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei came in barefoot, with bare legs, carrying a bowl of medicine in her bare body.


    Her legs were long, her curvy body seemed to contain infinite explosive power and resilience.


    As she walked, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard quietly dashing through the jungle, each step filled with power and a sense of rhythm.


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, she bent over to put down the medicine, then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Particularly since... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" took shape, Dongye State Council''s establishment might be moved up again.


    By then, he''d most likely have to face Huang Shangzong''s threat directly.


    As such, Qiu Tu had to, as much as possible before then, improve his position and strengthen his power,


    With that thought, he slightly moved his thigh again, the soreness piercing straight to his cranial apex.


    ''Forget it, let''s light another for Yue Kua as well, probably done for too...''


    Reflecting silently on the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu instinctively reached out beside him, only then realizing that his side was already empty, leaving behind only a faint fragrance of jasmine...


    Although he had known from the start that it was just a transaction between the two of them, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a twinge of disappointment.


    ''Even if there''s no credit, there should be hard work, right?''


    ''This is too much of a cold shoulder!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei came in barefoot, with bare legs, carrying a bowl of medicine in her bare body.


    Her legs were long, her curvy body seemed to contain infinite explosive power and resilience.


    As she walked, she carried an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard quietly dashing through the jungle, each step filled with power and a sense of rhythm.


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, she bent over to put down the medicine, then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Particularly since... once the "Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan" took shape, Dongye State Council''s establishment might be moved up again.


    By then, he would most likely have to face Huang Shangzong''s threat directly.

 Chapter 684 - 380: Zhao Ji, Lets Live and Die Together! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)

    After all, normally when all Cataclysmics advance to Fourth Order, they seek support from their own factions, their friends, and those they trust to protect themselves. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moreover, they would definitely place themselves in an absolutely safe location.


    Even if, like Yan Chen, they were forced into a corner and compelled to advance, they would arrange layers of troops for protection and summon friends to guard the way.


    This was why Tang Feifei was worried when she knew Qiu Tu was planning to secretly advance to Fourth Order.


    As a result... Did Qiu Tu actually decide to do the opposite?


    Not inviting friends, nor seeking the support of his faction. He wasn''t even in a safe place. Instead, he went to the most dangerous place!


    The territory of the Fifth Order Great Evil God, Zhao Ji!


    Even though Tang Feifei always felt confident in her power and sometimes recklessly wanted to challenge Zhao Ji...


    But... that was just wishful thinking.


    Without complete preparation, she would not dare to step into Zhao Ji''s territory.


    After all, nobody knew what kind of trap formation Zhao Ji might have set in her territory before she left.


    Nor did anyone know how many measures Zhao Ji might have left in her territory!


    Moreover... keep in mind, Evil Gods are just higher-ranked Cataclysmic Creatures after all.


    They are extremely sensitive to any unusual essences in their territories.


    Even if one could bypass all Zhao Ji''s traps, formations, and measures, but left behind an essence that Zhao Ji, upon returning, discovered, it would be very troublesome.


    It was for these reasons that other Evil Gods and Cataclysmics were unwilling to enter Zhao Ji''s territory.


    Now... was Qiu Tu actually planning to enter Zhao Ji''s territory?


    Honestly, at that moment, Tang Feifei wasn''t sure whether Qiu Tu was being cautious or reckless...


    Right then, Tang Feifei''s eyes inadvertently fell on the Boundless Divine Crystal that was part of a heart, lying on Qiu Tu''s table...


    Following that, Tang Feifei recalled the pile of Boundless Divine Crystals that Qiu Tu had given her.


    She quietly weighed it in her mind.


    If she hadn''t estimated wrong... the total of these Divine Crystals combined was about half the size of a human body.


    These were fresh Divine Crystals from a Peak Fourth Rank Evil God!


    Truly priceless!


    And Qiu Tu got his hands on them?


    Although unclear about what relationship exactly Qiu Tu had with Zhao Ji, Tang Feifei knew it must be something extraordinary.


    And thinking about Qiu Tu''s previous strategic methods, Tang Feifei sighed silently in her heart...


    ''Fine. Let''s just go with his plan...''


    ''If things really go south, I''ll risk my life to take him away and then get my grandfather to save him.''


    At this time, Qiu Tu was unaware of Tang Feifei''s inner thoughts.


    If he had known, he would surely have explained a bit more: he also didn''t know what traps or measures Zhao Ji had laid down.


    But... remember, he still held two trump cards in his hand...


    He might not know, but would his blood sister Larilo not know?


    Even if Larilo, his blood sister, didn''t know... could ''Crisis Intuition'' not detect it?


    Larilo and ''Crisis Intuition'' were key to why he dared to venture into the territory of a Fifth Order Great Evil God to advance!


    Thinking this, Qiu Tu discussed the plan and strategy with Tang Feifei again. They decided to endure one more night, push his Peak Third Rank to the limit, and then proceed together the next night for advancement!


    After discussing the plans, Qiu Tu did not stay overnight at Tang Feifei''s house as he usually would.


    Instead, he braved the night, got into his car, and drove back to the villa he shared with Shen Lingshuang.


    Before advancing, he still needed to understand and arrange some things.


    Upon reaching the villa and stopping the car,


    Qiu Tu stepped toward the villa.


    Just as he reached the villa''s door,


    it might have been an illusion, but suddenly, his Spiritual Perception felt like someone was spying on him.


    He reflexively looked back, but saw nothing...


    Behind him was the beautifully maintained Longshan Road and its bushes.


    Since it was winter, the weather was becoming increasingly harsh, and the cold light spilled on the road, seemingly adding an extra chill to the night.


    Qiu Tu scanned behind a few times, and once he was sure he hadn''t noticed any issues, he shook his head, then came to his senses and walked into the villa...


    Just as he entered the villa, Qiu Tu sensed a white shadow flash by!


    Now, with ''False Frame'', Qiu Tu was already a Peak Third Rank Cataclysmic.


    Thus, with a simple grab, he caught Xiao Bai who was attempting a sneak attack on him!


    Holding Xiao Bai''s soft belly, Qiu Tu chuckled and said, "Xiao Bai, your speed is a bit slow."


    "With your speed, you might never manage to bite me in this lifetime."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s "taunt," Xiao Bai glared at Qiu Tu, barking "woof woof woof."


    Though he didn''t understand what was being said, Qiu Tu read her expression and felt she probably cussed quite rudely.


    But Qiu Tu didn''t mind; he laughed and said, "Xiao Bai, you must be quite bored when Ling Shuang''s at work."


    "How about I bring a friend over to see you someday?"


    Right then, before Xiao Bai could respond, Shen Lingshuang, who was in the dining room, spoke first.


    This girl, having worked for over a dozen days, had clearly matured a lot. She was wearing black-framed glasses, holding a pen, and was carefully reading some intelligence.


    Hearing the "conversation" between the two, she curiously raised her head, adjusted her glasses on the bridge of her nose, and asked, "What friend? A friend for Xiao Bai?"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu smiled, put down Xiao Bai, and then said, "Yes."


    "Actually... I''ve also kept a pet recently. Very cute, very beautiful, and very obedient."

 Chapter 685 - 380: Zhao Ji, Lets Live and Die Together! (10,000 Words for Monthly Ticket!)_2

    "But she usually stays indoors because it''s inconvenient to appear in public, so she''s always bored and lonely."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang gave him a strange look, "You better be talking about an actual pet, right?"


    "Not some sort of beauty dog or something?"


    Qiu Tu:...


    Qiu Tu rubbed his temples and casually pulled a document from Shen Lingshuang''s hands, looking through it.


    Indeed... it was all about the bizarre deeds of The Five Elders and some smaller forces on Longshan Road.


    Beauty spittoons and beauty dogs were child''s play, there were plenty of prohibited words too.


    Qiu Tu frowned slightly, then tossed the intelligence back to Shen Lingshuang, saying, "Look less at these things. Let Guan Xiao handle it himself."


    "Moreover... have Guan Xiao pull a team from Longshan Road in the next couple of days to go out and kill."


    "They really think Xinjie City is still their playground. They have no bottom line."


    A casually uttered sentence could lead to the direct downfall of numerous old family clans, such was Qiu Tu''s current power in Xinjie City!


    Although he wasn''t the Acting Bureau Chief now, with Tang Feifei''s support, his power within the Investigation Bureau was almost indistinguishable from that of the Acting Bureau Chief.


    Moreover, controlling the Political Department, Action Division, and Public Security Bureau, as well as being able to influence the special department of The military''s Security Department, Qiu Tu was indeed a powerful man in Xinjie City.


    Shen Lingshuang had seen her father''s decisive manner before, so her expression didn''t change. She adjusted her black-framed glasses and seriously noted down Qiu Tu''s words to report to Guan Xiao the next day.


    After seeing Shen Lingshuang finish all this, Qiu Tu walked over, picked up the girl, and placed her on his lap.


    Then he asked, "How''s it going? Have you found any clues on Longshan Road?"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang seriously replied, "Yes."


    "Minister Guan came over to investigate and also identified a few abnormal targets."


    "But since we still have too little intelligence, we can''t yet determine exactly what these targets are."


    On hearing this, Qiu Tu nodded, "No rush. I''ll give you three or four more days to investigate this matter."


    "Just make sure to find out within the time limit."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Shen Lingshuang nodded slightly and then saluted Qiu Tu, "Chief, I guarantee to complete the mission!"


    Qiu Tu smiled and patted the girl''s head, then said, "Continue analyzing the intelligence."


    "Yes!"


    On the eve before he was to level up to a Fourth Order Cataclysmic, Qiu Tu stayed up with Shen Lingshuang analyzing intelligence until 1 a.m.


    After they finished analyzing all the intelligence, the two washed up and then went to sleep together.


    Perhaps sensing the heaviness in Qiu Tu''s mood...


    Shen Lingshuang unusually took the initiative to snuggle against Qiu Tu and then voluntarily blew the Horn of God.


    Afterwards, he tasted quite a bit of sweetness...


    ...


    Thus, the night passed without words.


    The next day, Qiu Tu was awoken by constriction.


    It wasn''t a certain bodily function that woke him, but the Pseudo-status of the "Domain Master."


    According to the information and materials Qiu Tu got from Larilo and Tang Feifei,


    after reaching the Third Order, Cataclysmics actually need to focus on two directions to advance further.


    One is to continue following the "Cataclysm Path," staying true to its guidance and moving relentlessly forward.


    That''s "True Body Fourth-order Cultivation."


    The other is to utilize external forces, using Cataclysmic treasures, Cataclysmic creatures, and even some magical powers to build strength.


    That''s "Pseudo-status Fourth-order Cultivation."


    The advantage of the former is... The power is cohesive and stronger. The disadvantage is that the character becomes more and more assimilated by the "Cataclysm Path," becoming increasingly radical.


    The benefit of the latter... It preserves the true self''s character without being influenced by the "Cataclysm Path."


    The downside, because of "externally positioned power," it isn''t as seamless to use. Moreover... since it is "external," it is quite hard to control. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just like the "Domain Master''s" Pseudo-status. Because it is constantly drawing power from the Boundless Heart Sea,


    unless it reaches its limit and ceases to change, it''s difficult for Qiu Tu to suppress the growth of its power...


    The day before, Qiu Tu''s power had reached the peak of Third-Order, and yesterday the Third-Order Peak was almost fully complete.


    Currently, Qiu Tu felt as if he was about to overflow...


    He even felt his "soul" transforming, as if he was just a step away from breaking into a Fourth Order Cataclysmic!


    But since it was daytime, and he couldn''t sneak off to Eastern City, East City Area to level up, he could only suppress the urge to advance with all his willpower...


    Thus, the day quickly passed.


    In the evening, after work,


    Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei quietly used the safety passage on the 12th floor, making their way silently to the bottom of the Investigation Bureau Office Building...


    A vehicle arranged by Tang Feifei was already waiting there.


    The two got into the car, then first drove to a house in Xinjie City.


    There, they changed their attire and switched to an SUV, then headed straight for Eastern City.


    The drive from Xinjie City to Eastern City took about two hours. However, they didn''t head directly to the city center but instead turned off upon reaching the outskirts of Eastern City, finding a secluded forest to park the car.


    Getting out of the car, Qiu Tu surveyed the surroundings.


    Possibly because it was winter, the trees in the forest were bare, with leaves having fallen completely, piling layer upon layer on the ground.


    The sound of shoes stepping on them made a "creak, creak" noise.

 Chapter 686 - 380: Zhao Ji, Lets Live and Die Together! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    The bare trees stood like spears, pointing straight at the grey sky. Paired with the cool weather, they almost seemed like the defiant last stand of the defeated!


    Qiu Tu withdrew his gaze from the ominous forest and turned to Tang Feifei, asking, "Is this the Eastern City Area?"


    Tang Feifei took out a jade token, shone it towards the SUV, and in the next second, the SUV was absorbed into the token.


    Then she nodded affirmatively, her tone cool, "Yes."


    "The delineation line marked on the file is here."


    "Besides... I''ve also been here on missions before."


    The "Boundless Heart Sea" was unpredictable, and the regions were not fixed but flowed.


    Two places connected to the real world could be miles apart in the "Boundless Heart Sea."


    So, to enter the Eastern City, one must first reach the corresponding spot in the real world.


    After receiving a confirmation from Tang Feifei, Qiu Tu nodded and then said, "Then let''s set off."


    Finishing his words, Qiu Tu''s dark pupils slowly turned into a clear, deep blue.


    The scenery around him began to peel away, growing darker and dimmer. The trees and hills before him gradually became lines...


    Then, he extended his right hand, palm up, and suddenly flipped it.


    In the next second, he felt as though the whole world flipped over like a flat plane!


    Along with his arrival in the "Boundless Heart Sea," the lines began to extend out from the darkness!


    Some outlined the shape of sand dunes, others the dips of hollows, and still others the shapes of small reptilian creatures...


    Just like that, as the darkness receded, a wave of heat struck Qiu Tu the next second!


    A vast desert slowly appeared before Qiu Tu!


    Although he had previously seen the splendor of the "Boundless Heart Sea - New Realm Region," witnessing a desert materialize before him still left Qiu Tu in awe at the wonder of the "Boundless Heart Sea"...


    The next second, Tang Feifei''s figure appeared beside Qiu Tu.


    Entering the region of a Fifth-Order Great Evil God, she became incredibly vigilant.


    Her whole body was tense like a female leopard, her wheat-colored face etched with solemnity, her eyes sharply scanning the surroundings.


    Seeing her like this, Qiu Tu gently patted her arm, assuring, "Don''t worry. It''s fine."


    After that, he opened the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" and took out the "Soul Shackles Altar" holding Larilo.


    Tang Feifei''s attention was drawn by Qiu Tu''s action, so her gaze naturally followed.


    But when she saw that what Qiu Tu held was the widely sought-after and yet utterly unfindable Larilo, surprise filled her wheat-colored face.


    However, her disposition was always reserved, so her mouth opened slightly, but in the end, she asked no questions.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t afford to explain to Tang Feifei; he lightly shook the "Soul Shackles Altar" and then said with a smile, "Your Highness, take a look... where are we?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Rilo, who had been bored to death while locked in the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" for some time, couldn''t help but look around.


    After a moment, she sat up sharply and, with a face full of surprise, said, "Is this... the region controlled by my sister?"


    She closed her eyes, sensed carefully, and then said with excitement, "Indeed, it''s my sister''s presence! I feel her power!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu exchanged a look with Tang Feifei.


    Then Qiu Tu said, "Your Highness... honestly, I''m about to advance to a Fourth-order Catastrophe."


    "And I have nowhere else to go but to seek refuge in Her Highness Zhao Ji''s region."


    "I''m not sure if she has set any traps or means to prevent others from entering her region."


    "But rest assured, I promise you... we will live or die together."


    "If I run into danger, I definitely won''t let you live on alone!"


    Larilo:???


    --------


    ---------


    Title: "Past Life Simulator, I''m Really Not Your Husband!" Synopsis: Lin Yan travels to the Mystical Fantasy Continent as a hostage sent to the Great Flame Dynasty, living in fear of not surviving the day, but luckily, he has a "Past Life Simulator" to realistically simulate every past life experience. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as soon as the simulator is activated¡ª


    What! The Great Flame Empress turns out to be a wife from a past life?


    She shuns ascension, merely waiting in the mortal world for his return??


    The Supreme Demon Path is his childhood friend from a past life, slaying gods and burying beings solely to revive him??


    The North Sea Goddess is a little beggar he picked up in a past life; she grinds away the heavens and shatters reincarnation, all to find a trace of his true spirit??


    No, no! Big shots, please calm down, I''m really not your husband!


    However, her disposition was always reserved, so her mouth opened slightly, but in the end, she asked no questions.


    At this moment, Qiu Tu couldn''t afford to explain to Tang Feifei; he lightly shook the "Soul Shackles Altar" and then said with a smile, "Your Highness, take a look... where are we?"


    Upon hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Rilo, who had been bored to death while locked in the "Gold-Addicted Wallet" for some time, couldn''t help but look around.


    After a moment, she sat up sharply and, with a face full of surprise, said, "Is this... the region controlled by my sister?"


    She closed her eyes, sensed carefully, and then said with excitement, "Indeed, it''s my sister''s presence! I feel her power!"


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu exchanged a look with Tang Feifei.


    Then Qiu Tu said, "Your Highness... honestly, I''m about to advance to a Fourth-order Catastrophe."


    "And I have nowhere else to go but to seek refuge in Her Highness Zhao Ji''s region."


    "I''m not sure if she has set any traps or means to prevent others from entering her region."


    "But rest assured, I promise you... we will live or die together."


    "If I run into danger, I definitely won''t let you live on alone!"


    Larilo:???


    --------

 Chapter 687 - 381

    Larilo stared at Qiu Tu, dumbfounded.


    She almost thought she had heard wrong.


    Good people from which household, locking oneself in a Cataclysmic treasure without seeing daylight for over ten days. Then, the moment she gets released, he demands her accompaniment in death!


    At that moment, Larilo''s brain almost stopped functioning.


    Perhaps detecting Larilo''s shocked state, Qiu Tu glanced at Tang Feifei beside him, and then began to coax, "Your Highness, I think you should understand my thoughts."


    "I really adore you. No matter where I go, I want to bring you with me. If I die, of course, I''d like to have your company on the road to the Underworld."


    Larilo paused for a moment, then looked at Qiu Tu suspiciously and asked, "What if I die then?" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Without hesitation, Qiu Tu replied, "Don''t worry, I''ll definitely give you a grand funeral!"


    Larilo:...


    She was truly furious. She spat out a barrage of national curses at Qiu Tu like "you," "I," "mom."


    Then she roared at Qiu Tu, "So you''re just looking for a cushion for your back, damn it!"


    "Talking about dying together! It''s only me who accompanies you in death, right!"


    Upon hearing this, Qiu Tu said solemnly to Larilo, "Your Highness, you need to understand me. Everything I do is for your good."


    "You''ve already perished, and if I perish too, then there would be no one in this world to mourn you."


    "How lonely would we be down there?"


    "So, I need to live well and upon each festival, I''ll burn some paper and offer some sacrificial offerings, striving to ensure you''re ''free from care about food and clothes'' in the Underworld for the next few centuries!"


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, Larilo:...


    "Thanks so much..."


    Larilo finally realized that, if anything, Qiu Tu was full of twisted logic.


    Arguing back and forth with him was pointless because he actually understood everything. He was merely using a jocular way to communicate what to do next, and what the consequences would be if it weren''t done¡­


    Upon understanding this, Larilo''s intelligence reclaimed the high ground.


    She regained her Evil God demeanor, with the corners of her eyes slightly lifted, blood-red lips gently biting, and her slender, long fingers lightly entangling with the lace on her dress''s hem.


    Then, she glanced over Qiu Tu and said softly, "Qiu Tu~~actually, there''s no need to talk about living and dying between us."


    "It''s too sentimental~~"


    Sitting inside the altar, she surveyed the deserted desert around her and said, "You just want to use my sister''s place to advance, right?"


    "Don''t worry, with me here, I''ll make sure you don''t fall into any traps."


    Qiu Tu glanced at the loyalty level above Larilo''s head: 29.


    During this period, Qiu Tu was still routinely increasing Larilo''s loyalty level in the "Loyalty Game".


    Just... whether it was because she now knew Qiu Tu''s true colors, understanding that her sister had not abandoned her,


    Larilo''s loyalty level wasn''t increasing as rapidly as before.


    Previously, each victory would increase it by 3 points, but these days it was only by 1 or 2 points.


    And even after reaching 29 points, it completely stagnated.


    That aside. Perhaps he had run out of luck during this period, as the "Memory Fragments" he acquired recently were almost worthless.


    Mostly scenes of Larilo bathing, comforting herself, secretly watching believers frolicking, and talking to herself while critically evaluating them...


    The only valuable one was when Qiu Tu unexpectedly discovered several of Larilo''s hidden pawns.


    Knowing Xinjie City would be the next region reclaimed by the Sanctuary, Larilo had also left herself several options.


    In addition to developing believers in Xinjie City over the years, she had also secretly arranged for them to expand their influence in the Disaster Zone.


    Like the Anti-government Armed Forces "United Front" Qiu Tu initially encountered; the Extreme Sect "Cult of Destruction" that infiltrated Xinjie City not long ago; and the "New Democratic Army" that worships the Evil God and has already occupied dozens of cities, forming a significant climate; her believers had climbed to middle-tier positions.


    Qiu Tu speculated that these days, the reason "Cult of Destruction" and "New Democratic Army" were so active in Xinjie City was likely related to Larilo''s fall.


    ¡ªHer hidden believers had been trying to contact her for these past couple of months, but had been unable to reach her.


    After investigations revealed her fall, they began directing their respective powers to investigate in Xinjie City.


    Thinking this, recalling the gains from these past few days on Larilo, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei began following Larilo''s directions to find suitable sites for advancement in the "East City Area".


    Wandering in the desert, Tang Feifei, while watching the path ahead, coldly said, "I never thought Larilo would end up in your hands."


    "Back then, various factions and families turned Xinjie City upside down and didn''t find her."


    Tang Feifei clearly wasn''t here to accuse him.


    After expressing her amazement, she indifferently said, "But...be careful of your dealings and boundaries with these Evil Gods."


    "Conspiring with Evil Gods is a serious crime."


    Although her words weren''t very explicit, her intensely lethal expression proved her point.


    Hearing this, Qiu Tu chuckled and said, "If I were helping Evil Gods gain benefits, then it could be seen as conspiring."


    "But now, I am seeking benefit for humanity through her. How could that be called conspiring, it should be said..."


    Qiu Tu paused, "Taming."


    Larilo:...


    "Hey! Are you treating me as if I''m dead?"


    "I can hear your discussion, you know!"


    No matter the creature, strength is always your foundation

 Chapter 688 - 381

    Strength can be multifaceted: one''s own combat abilities, money, power, or family background.


    But once strength is gone, even one''s words can lose their force.


    Larilo was no exception. When powerful, she was the Heretic Goddess Girl who toyed with Qiu Tu. Now, imprisoned, her personality has become increasingly silly.


    Tang Feifei ignored Larilo''s interruption, analyzing the situation for Qiu Tu with cold logic, "Your idea isn''t wrong, but... if your enemy wants to leverage this, it''s the perfect vulnerability."


    Qiu Tu nodded slightly. He knew Tang Feifei meant well, which is why he didn''t argue. After a brief hesitation, he then said,


    "Actually... apart from being the Deputy Director of the Investigation Bureau, I have another identity."


    Upon hearing this, Tang Feifei''s gaze fluctuated slightly before she looked back at Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu continued, "When Yan Chen pressed me too hard previously, I entered into an agreement with Dai Yukang. I took on a position at the Security Department."


    "And the matter with Larilo... Dai Yukang and the Security Department are aware of it."


    Hearing Qiu Tu''s words, a look of dawning comprehension crossed Tang Feifei''s face.


    If that was the case, many sources of Qiu Tu''s intelligence indeed made sense.


    And with Dai Yukang''s backing, Qiu Tu''s private "sheltering" of Larilo could be deemed legitimate.


    Furthermore, now that Qiu Tu had successfully seized the position of Domain Master from Larilo, there were no longer any hidden dangers in the matter.


    Thinking this, Tang Feifei said no more...


    But in her heart, for some reason, she felt that Qiu Tu had somehow become even more enigmatic...


    In the past, due to the disparity in their levels, she saw Qiu Tu as her male companion, understanding everything about him clearly.


    But now... a Third Order Cataclysmic, Domain Master, captor of an Evil God, Security Department connections...


    During this time, Qiu Tu was showing her a completely different side of himself...


    ...


    Time in the real world and the Boundless Heart Sea was the opposite.


    Now, it was night in the real world, so it was day in the Boundless Heart Sea.


    The burning sun hung high in a cloudless sky, pouring down like molten gold, casting its golden brilliance over every dune and lighting up the entire desert with a dazzling, fiery glow.


    The dunes rolled and varied in shape, some spreading like gentle waves, others steep as cliffs, reaching for the heavens. The vast sand sea stretched to the horizon, merging with the sky, as if the entire world was consumed by the endless expanse of yellow.


    Occasionally, a wild gust of wind would whip up the sand into towering walls that blotted out the sun, raging and unstoppable.


    In this desert spanning nine regions, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei followed Larilo''s lead, trekking by foot...


    Along the way, the trio occasionally came across signs of stubborn life¡ªdrought-resistant shrubs or herbs, or desert lizards looking up at them before scurrying away...


    After a full three hours, they reached a slope. Larilo, who had been dragged along by Qiu Tu, finally spoke.


    "Let''s stop here," she said.


    Upon her words, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but survey their surroundings. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Not all deserts were made of sand; among them were scattered hills and mountain ranges.


    Between the mountains, the flat, dry valleys tended to be safer than the sandy deserts at lower levels.


    So Larilo''s choice was not a bad one... at least, much better than an hour ago when she tried to take Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei to a trap.


    Back then, as they passed a dune, Larilo pointed in a direction, indicating they should head that way.


    However, after taking only a few steps, Qiu Tu''s "Crisis Intuition" popped up with a warning.


    It alerted him that Larilo had recognized a trap set by Zhao Ji and was about to lure him into it.


    If he had indeed walked into it, something unimaginable might have occurred.


    When he received that alert, Qiu Tu wasn''t surprised.


    After all, although he was "cooperating" with Larilo, they were still essentially enemies.


    Especially after Qiu Tu had taken the title of Domain Master from her, their relationship had escalated to mortal foes.


    So, Larilo wanting to harm him was nothing out of the ordinary.


    But then... something unexpected happened.


    While he was lost in thought, the "Crisis Countdown" automatically ended and turned into a Treasure Chest.


    This indicated that the crisis had passed.


    Immediately afterward, Larilo also suddenly said she had pointed out the wrong way and chose another path.


    Moreover, Qiu Tu''s "Loyalty Game" suddenly popped up with a notification: Larilo''s loyalty increased by 3, now at 32.


    Honestly, in that moment, Qiu Tu was genuinely surprised.


    But he acted as though he knew nothing and took Larilo''s advice, changing their route.


    In the following journey, Qiu Tu carefully pondered Larilo''s change in behavior.


    First and foremost, he confirmed that... Larilo had no detection of his Golden Finger.


    -----------


    ------


    Just as he was contemplating this, Fang Tangtang bashfully covered her face, then began to undo the tie at her waist.


    The next second, her bathrobe slid off, revealing before Qiu Tu a body as flawless as white jade, exquisitely crafted.


    Qiu Tu: ...


    Qiu Tu admitted, for a moment, his heartbeat seemed to accelerate just a tad.


    But after all, he was a respectable person. And he had philosophy texts to read tonight!

 Chapter 689 - 381

    So, he looked down at the booklet "Existence" in his hand, once, twice... and then he kept reading!


    "Fuck ''Existence''," the purpose of ''Existence'' boils down to Cao currency!''


    Thinking about the extremely vulgar, philosophy-insulting words, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed, and amid Fang Tangtang''s cry of alarm, he swooped her up and then pinned her down on the bed...


    Blue Moon''s face blushed, pulling the dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fought fiercely until midnight.


    It seemed like Fang Tangtang had genuinely put herself in the girlfriend''s role, even though Qiu Tu noticed her furrowing her brow several times, as yesterday''s "wound" obviously hadn''t fully healed; yet she still seriously swayed her body, coordinating with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again got to feel how soft and comfortable Facial Cleanser was near people.


    ''Facial cleanser really is better for personal use!''


    With that thought, Qiu Tu also imparted all he knew to Fang Tangtang, teaching her and solving her doubts...


    After all, as the deputy director of the Political Department, he originally had a kill quota.


    She couldn''t quite understand what that sensation was.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But then, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pushed Tang Feifei onto the ground, ripped off the towel covering her, and pressed down onto her!


    This time, Tang Feifei once again experienced a feeling that she had never had with Liu Fuping...


    That entirely different pleasure made her want to use her shoulders to push against Qiu Tu''s Yue Chi Mouth, trying to get a pause.


    But Qiu Tu was clutching her from the front, one hand pressing down on her shoulders, making her like a fish out of water, constantly unable to turn over.


    That domineering attitude made it impossible for Tang Feifei to resist.


    Especially... each time she was about to break down and wanted to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean close to her ear and murmur in a deep voice, "Bureau Chief, do you want to break the deal?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    To be honest, it was hard to accept being beaten unilaterally for someone as competitive as herself from childhood!


    Several times she wanted to turn from a slave to the master and sing!


    But... she was a woman of her word after all.


    So... even though she cursed herself countless times for agreeing to Qiu Tu, for agreeing too hastily, during that day and night, she never once initiated contact with Qiu Tu, nor did she resist...


    She just secretly exerted all her strength!


    And Qiu Tu, this time he really put in some Tough Kung Fu.


    He knew that to conquer this woman before him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    So, he clung tightly to Tang Feifei, hardly giving her any chance to rest!


    And like this, they struggled until late at night before they finally held each other and fell into a drowsy sleep. At that moment, the over 200-square meter lounge, in every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was dozing off, Qiu Tu also mused in his heart, Tang Feifei is really strong! And really wild!


    If it wasn''t for advancing to a Cataclysmic, greatly strengthening his body, and prohibiting Tang Feifei from taking control,


    He guessed... after that wave, his back would be retiring...


    [4.5 days (Yin Caimei case closure time)]


    [1.5 days (Danger in the dark)]


    ...


    The next day, accompanied by the first rays of the morning sun.


    Qiu Tu slowly woke up from a deep sleep.


    His first reflex was to rub his eyes, but as soon as he lifted his arm, he felt his arms and back aching!


    "Hiss!"


    Qiu Tu inhaled sharply, then woke up through the aching, checked his arm, and only then belatedly remembered yesterday''s day and night of glorious achievements.


    Thinking of himself tirelessly working hard yesterday, thinking of the equally battered Tang Feifei, he silently lit a candle for his back...


    He felt, this back would probably be unusable in the future.


    Thinking thus, he slightly moved his thighs, with the soreness shooting right up to his skull.


    "Forget it, let''s also light one for Yue Kuaye, probably wrecked too..."


    Silently lamenting about the intensity of yesterday''s battle, Qiu Tu reflexively reached beside him, only then realizing that his side was already empty, leaving behind just a faint scent of jasmine...


    Although he knew that their relationship was just a transaction, at that moment, Qiu Tu still felt a bit disappointed.


    ''Even if there''s no merit, there''s hard work, right?''


    ''To turn face and not recognize people, that''s too much!''


    Just as he was thinking this, suddenly, the bedroom door opened. Tang Feifei walked in barefoot, with bare legs and body, carrying a bowl of medicine.


    Her legs were long, her curvaceous body seemingly harboring endless explosiveness and flexibility.


    Moving with an indescribable rhythm, like a leopard sprinting quietly through the wilderness, each step full of power and rhythm.


    Coming to Qiu Tu''s side, she bent down to place the medicine down, then coldly said, "Drink it. You worked hard last night."


    Especially... once the ''Boundless Heart Sea Expansion Plan'' takes shape, the establishment time of the Dongye State Council might be moved up again.


    Then, he might have to face the threat from Huang Shangzong directly.


    Therefore, Qiu Tu must improve his position and enhance his strength as much as possible before that,


    Several deputy directors of the Organizational Department, Zhen Lie is from the ''Iron-Blood Faction'', Zhou Jingfu is from the ''Reformist Faction'', Meng Sanzhai is from the ''Fengtian Faction''.


    These three people, according to Yan Chen''s intelligence, except for Meng Sanzhai, should have nothing to do with Qiu Tu.


    Thinking thus, he couldn''t help but look towards Ouyang Heng sitting next to him, Ouyang Heng is from the ''Free Democracy Faction'', even less to do with Qiu Tu.


    But why... all four people support Qiu Tu!


    And among these four, Meng Sanzhai of the ''Fengtian Faction'' is the most Buddhist, only showing support for Qiu Tu by stating his stance, hardly speaking at all.


    No wonder he''s called an Evil God, just speaking makes others feel comfortable. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 690 - 382: Promotion to Fourth-Order Cataclysmic! (10,000 characters for Monthly Ticket!)

    When Tang Feifei guessed Qiu Tu''s Cataclysm Path, it was as if a giant wave had been unleashed in her heart!


    After all, this Cataclysm Path was just too exaggerated, tied to position and power.


    It was clearly a double-edged sword!


    It could quickly improve one''s own strength due to promotions, but it also had the potential risk of plummeting into the dust due to a demotion.


    And .... one should know that people like Qiu Tu, who were capable, smart, meritorious, and fortunate in getting rapid promotions, were after all a minority.


    Most people, even if they racked their brains like Qiu Tu, could only get promoted step-by-step. A few levels up in a dozen years.


    And ... during these dozen years, they couldn''t afford any slip-ups. Once an error occurred, it might lead to stagnation or demotion, causing a significant reduction in strength.


    "No wonder Qiu Tu is desperate to climb up...."


    Having understood Qiu Tu''s abnormal behavior recently, Tang Feifei suddenly thought of another issue, "No wonder Qiu Tu hides his ''Domain Master'' identity..."


    He had clearly detected the "double-edged sword" nature of his Cataclysm Path.


    Knowing that once exposed, he could very likely be targeted by enemies.


    So... he had to act in front of others, proving that he became a Fourth-order Cataclysmic "on his own," without any promotion, to dispel others'' suspicions about his Cataclysm Path.


    Thinking about this, Tang Feifei couldn''t help but glance again at the intertwined figures of Nuwo and Fuxi in the sky.


    She suddenly felt... this Illusion of the Law really somewhat resembled Qiu Tu''s state.


    To outsiders, it seemed that Qiu Tu only cared about women and reproduction.


    But only those who truly understood Qiu Tu knew that he wanted to establish his own rules in these two worlds!


    Tang Feifei went over her guess about Qiu Tu''s Cataclysm Path again in her mind and looked at Larilo, who was still muttering that Qiu Tu was a "Reproduction Path" Cataclysmic, without explaining.


    She knew that Qiu Tu chose her to guard the law because he completely trusted her.


    With Qiu Tu''s understanding of her, he surely could guess that she would see through his Cataclysm Path after seeing the Illusion of the Law.


    But still, Qiu Tu chose to let her guard the law.


    This trust was not to be let down.


    In her heart, she secretly classified the matter of Qiu Tu''s Cataclysm Path as top secret.


    Tang Feifei withdrew her gaze, stood on the hillside, eyes slightly narrowed, sharply scanning the surroundings, vigilantly observing every movement.


    Since she had agreed to help Qiu Tu guard the path, even if she fell, she would not let anyone disrupt Qiu Tu''s promotion!


    ...


    A night without words.


    Soon, a night had passed.


    When the sun set in the Boundless Heart Sea and the moon hung high, Qiu Tu''s Illusion of the Law over the desert became even more prominent.


    The real world''s Rising Sun also lit up the whole world!


    Morning, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau.


    Due to the rapid changes in the situation recently, the Investigation Bureau was now a bit turbulent.


    First, Yan Chen was transferred, and Tang Feifei became the Acting Bureau Chief, temporarily in charge of everything in the bureau.


    Then, just a few days later, Tang Feifei became the Domain Master, promoted to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, and Qiu Tu temporarily acted as the Bureau Chief.


    Afterward, Tang Feifei successfully advanced to a Fourth-order Cataclysmic, becoming the only Domain Master and Fourth-order Cataclysmic Member of Parliament in Dongye State.


    Everyone thought that under such circumstances, Xinjie City Investigation Bureau would enter a very stable period of development.


    But, who knew... the Sanctuary suddenly issued a document promoting Tang Feifei to Deputy Speaker of Dongye State.


    Although it shocked everyone''s eyes, it was understandable. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But... what everyone didn''t understand was, now that Tang Feifei had been promoted to Deputy Speaker, why was the position of the Investigation Bureau Chief still vacant?


    Even if Yu Zhengyi and Qiu Tu weren''t quite suitable for becoming the Bureau Chief, they could still parachute someone in for the position.


    But... nothing was done.


    This kind of change left everyone puzzled about what the Sanctuary really intended.


    Initially, some agents, section chiefs, and directors speculated: Did the Sanctuary actually have someone in mind, but that person was temporarily not suitable to become the Investigation Bureau Chief, so they deliberately left the position vacant?


    Of course... this speculation almost directly spelled out "Qiu Tu."


    Therefore, the whole Investigation Bureau started to quietly observe Qiu Tu''s situation.


    But then.... they found... Qiu Tu seemed to have given up?


    After showing his face a few times yesterday, today he simply stayed in his office and didn''t come out.


    No one knew what he was doing inside, nor what he was really thinking.


    But... everyone knew, this definitely wasn''t the state of a "winner."


    So, for a while, the whole Investigation Bureau started guessing the Sanctuary''s intentions again....


    And at this time, while the turmoil was happening in the Investigation Bureau.


    12th floor, Yu Zhengyi''s office.


    Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin sat opposite each other, both frowning.


    Shi Youxin sipped his tea and then muttered in a low voice while frowning, "Logically speaking... it shouldn''t be like this."


    "The Tang family moved too hastily in promoting Tang Feifei, giving her hardly any advantage other than making her a target for everyone."


    "And... leaving a Member of Parliament''s position vacant but not arranging someone. It''s clearly telling everyone that there''s something fishy about this position, reserved for someone specific."


    "But... for whom is it reserved?"


    "For Qiu Tu? Then why hasn''t Qiu Tu come forward to take over the power?"


    "I just don''t understand, really don''t understand." Shi Youxin shook his head slightly, his face full of confusion.

 Chapter 691 - 382: Advancing to Fourth-order Cataclysmic! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_2

    After muttering to himself, Shi Youxin looked at Yu Zhengyi and asked, "Old Yu, have you unearthed any news on your end?"


    Upon hearing this, Yu Zhengyi also furrowed his brows, held up his teacup, took a gentle sip, and then shook his head, "No."


    "No news came from the Sanctuary. The only thing I managed to find out is that the higher-ups ordered this Bureau Chief position to be temporarily left vacant."


    "But... as to which person above is responsible for this and what their purpose is, all of that is unclear."


    Hearing this, Shi Youxin fell silent for a few seconds before finally saying, "I still suspect Qiu Tu."


    "This tactic of deliberately leaving the position open is all too familiar." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And... Qiu Tu has indeed been acting out of character today."


    "He''s been refusing visitors, and when some of the department heads wanted to report to him, his secretary would directly turn them away outside the door."


    "It seems a bit like trying to hide something by being too conspicuous."


    "To be honest, I''m even suspecting whether he''s at the Investigation Bureau at all or if he has secretly gone to Eastern City."


    "To orchestrate his Acting Bureau Chief position."


    Hearing Shi Youxin''s words, Yu Zhengyi fell into quiet contemplation for a moment, also feeling somewhat uneasy.


    After a hesitation, he then spoke up, "Then how about this. I''ll go and probe his reality."


    "To see if he is actually in his office and what he thinks about the Bureau Chief position being vacant."


    Upon hearing this, Shi Youxin pondered for a moment and then nodded slightly, "I think that''s feasible."


    Seeing that his ally had agreed with his idea, Yu Zhengyi did not delay any further.


    Instead, he stood up, went to his desk to pick up a document, and then stepped out of his office.


    Shi Youxin followed him out, watching as he took his secretary with him to knock on Qiu Tu''s office door. As he walked towards his own office, Shi Youxin stealthily glanced over at the situation at Qiu Tu''s office door.


    Until he was nearly at his own office door, the door of Qiu Tu''s office opened from the inside and Tan Huimin, Qiu Tu''s secretary, stood at the doorway.


    Upon seeing Yu Zhengyi, she looked noticeably surprised and flustered.


    Such changes in expression were a blatantly clear signal to Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin, who were professionally trained in interrogation and criminal investigation.


    So both of them felt a "thud" in their hearts¡ªcould it be that they had actually guessed correctly?


    Could it be that Qiu Tu was really not in Xinjie City but had gone to Eastern City to jockey for an official position?


    Meanwhile, Tan Huimin standing at the doorway quickly adjusted her composure.


    She respectfully greeted Yu Zhengyi, who was at the door, with a bow and said, "Hello, Director Yu, may I ask what brings you here?"


    Hearing Tan Huimin''s question, Yu Zhengyi withdrew his thoughts and probed with a chuckle, "I have a work-related question that I''d like to discuss with Director Qiu. Is he available in his office?"


    Upon hearing this, Tan Huimin hesitated for a moment. Then she said, "The Bureau Chief is in his office, but... he''s not feeling well today and has instructed me to refuse all visitors, no matter who they are."


    However, a veteran like Yu Zhengyi couldn''t possibly be brushed off so easily by a few words from Tan Huimin.


    He said with a smile, "I understand, I understand. Director Qiu isn''t feeling well and wants to rest a bit¡ªthat''s only human."


    "But... I have an important matter to discuss face-to-face with Director Qiu."


    "There is a document that, in the absence of the Bureau Chief, requires the signatures of the two Deputy Directors to be effective."


    As he spoke, he tentatively took another step forward.


    At that moment, however, Tan Huimin, as if a cat whose tail had been stepped on, hastily blocked Yu Zhengyi''s path, then said, "Director Yu, it''s just a document, can''t it be signed tomorrow?"


    Tan Huimin''s apparent attempt to cover things up even further solidified the suspicions of Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin.


    Yu Zhengyi chuckled and then looked at Tan Huimin, saying, "I''m sorry, Secretary Tan. This document is quite urgent. It must be signed today."


    With that, he again made as if to walk inside.


    At that moment, Tan Huimin almost wanted to cry in desperation, standing firmly at the doorway.


    She would never have expected that the task Qiu Tu had given her would fall apart so quickly...


    She didn''t care about being punished for deceiving Yu Zhengyi; what she cared about was... might she have impacted Qiu Tu''s plans!


    And then... just as despair settled in Tan Huimin''s heart and she no longer knew what to do,


    Suddenly, the low, magnetic voice of Qiu Tu sounded from inside the office, "Hui Min, let Director Yu in."


    Hearing that voice, whether it was Tan Huimin inside or Yu Zhengyi and Shi Youxin outside, they all froze for a moment.


    Qiu Tu?!


    He hadn''t gone out?


    Yu Zhengyi couldn''t help but look around quickly, wondering if it was some recording device pretending to be Qiu Tu.


    However, just then, accompanied by the "tap... tap..." of footsteps from within,


    Qiu Tu, dressed in casual clothes, appeared behind Tan Huimin.


    He walked to the door, opened it, and looked straight at Yu Zhengyi with a gaze neither joyous nor sorrowful.


    For a moment, he turned his head and looked at Shi Youxin, who was eating melon seeds by his office door, with an indifferent expression.


    Finally, he turned and walked back into his office, saying dispassionately, "Come in, Director Yu. Let''s see what document requires the signatures of two Deputy Directors and also needs to be effective today only..."


    ...


    Half an hour later.


    In Yu Zhengyi''s office.


    Yu Zhengyi, frowning and with an odd expression, remarked, "Qiu Tu really was in his office."


    Shi Youxin looked at him, curiously asking, "Can you be certain? Is it not someone impersonating him?"


    Yu Zhengyi, with a reflective look in his eyes, pondered for a moment and then shook his head, "It shouldn''t be. He''s very familiar with everything about the Inquiry Bureau and knows the procedures of the higher ranks well."

 Chapter 692 - 382: Advancing to Fourth-order Cataclysmic! (10,000 words for Monthly Tickets!)_3

    "And yet, he didn''t show the slightest apprehension facing me. Sometimes, his momentum even overpowered mine."


    "That feeling is exactly like when Qiu Tu aggressively presses forward... It seems we might have really misunderstood him."


    Shi Youxin nodded with a slight frown...


    ...


    A day passed quickly.


    Night fell in Xinjie City.


    The moonlight was like water, gently spilling onto the rare tranquility of Xinjie City''s night.


    The barren trees, under the moonlight, seemed even lonelier and more mysterious. The mottled moon and tree shadows intertwined, creating patterns that looked like the claws and teeth of demons, as if they were whispering. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Longshan Road. A secret basement.


    In the flickering candlelight, three Evil Gods, using a special ritual, transformed into three slender black shadows, conversing in the basement.


    Whale Shark (in a burly man''s tone), "Hehehe. Judging by the time, the trial of the Fourth-order Catastrophic Changer plus Domain Master should be coming, right?" (Chapter 370)


    "How long do you think it''ll take Tang Feifei to find out?"


    Xie Yue (in a boy''s voice), "I guess a month."


    Whale Shark (in a burly man''s tone), "You''re guessing way too conservatively. I''ll go ahead and guess two months."


    Xie Yue (in a boy''s voice), "If it takes two months, that group of madmen will drain her dry."


    Whale Shark (in a burly man''s tone), "Hahaha. Isn''t that good for us? That would leave the position of the Domain Master vacant, and we could continue to aim for control of the Xinjie Territory."


    Hearing the two bickering, the leading black shadow fluctuated slightly and then spoke, "Alright... Whether the new Domain Master can pass the trial or not, we just need to wait patiently."


    "What I''m about to say next is important."


    "These past few days, I seem to have discovered something incredible. Something that should only exist in the ''Boundless Heart Sea Core Area''..."


    "I''ve been observing and verifying these past few days. Now, there''s almost a 70% probability that it''s that thing."


    "If it really gets verified, I''ll need your help..."


    ...


    Time flowed like water.


    In the blink of an eye, two days had passed.


    In the dead of night in the real world.


    Deep in the desert of the East City Area, inside a cave on a small hillock


    Suddenly, an intense burst of light erupted! Accompanied by that light, a majestic and wild energy spread out in all directions!


    Wherever it went, it rolled up the desert sands as if they had substance!


    Seeing this, Tang Feifei, who had been standing guard on the hill for three days without closing her eyes, suddenly looked down at the cave beneath her feet!


    Indeed, under her Spiritual Perception, there was now an existence of the same tier in the cave that hadn''t been there before!


    ''Has he advanced to the Fourth Order already?''


    The one harboring the same thoughts as her was Larilo in her hands.


    Larilo, dressed in a black gown, lay atop the altar looking down, murmuring at the sight of the tangible momentum, "Advanced to the Fourth Order in just two days?"


    "The speed of advancement is just too fast."


    Having said that, she came back to her senses, glaring angrily at the hill below, "So... still dare to claim he''s not the Domain Master?"


    "Without the continuous power supply from an impostor ''Domain Master,'' how could the advancement happen so quickly!"


    "Damn Qiu Tu!"


    While both women were astonished by how quickly Qiu Tu had advanced...


    What they didn''t notice was...


    On the opposite side of the desert in the East City Area, two middle-aged men looked at the shattered Illusion of the Law, feeling the strong aura unique to a Fourth-order Catastrophic Changer, exchanging glances...


    Then, they both saw in each other''s expressions the same thought as in their own minds: Who is advancing to the Fourth Order in Zhao Ji''s territory?


    They had been ordered to check on the ''Boundless Heart Sea,'' and now there was an unexpected surprise?


    -------

 Chapter 693 - 383

    Half an hour later.


    Dongye State, Parliament Building, top floor. Speaker''s Attendant Room three.


    The two middle-aged men who had coincidentally appeared in the "Boundless Heart Sea - East City Area" were respectfully reporting to a young girl reclining in a chair, her legs propped on the desk, chewing bubblegum, with twin ponytails.


    "Director, our three divisions have really accomplished something this time!"


    "We followed your orders to patrol Zhao Ji''s Territory, and we accidentally discovered a Cataclysmic evolving."


    "Here is the footage we recorded."


    As he spoke, one of the middle-aged men took out a round eye that was veiny, tactile, and bouncy.


    The eye seemed to be alive, moving around when brought out.


    "Hundred-Eyes Vision: A type of Cataclysmic treasure for recording."


    "The primary material is an eye from the Cataclysmic Creature ''Hundred-Eyes Octopus.''"


    "After refining, it can store images and sounds, and provide an immersive viewing experience."


    Hearing the two middle-aged men''s explanation, the twin-tailed girl casually reached out her hand, continuing to chew her bubblegum.


    She looked young, only about sixteen or seventeen. One of her twin ponytails was azure blue, the other pink.


    Her outfit consisted of denim shorts exposing her long, straight legs and a belly-showing top. With her legs casually thrown onto the desk and the gum in her mouth, she didn''t look like a high-ranking official from Dongye State at all.


    Seeing the girl extend her hand, the two middle-aged men hurriedly handed over the "Hundred-Eyes Vision" with respect.


    The girl played with the bouncy eye for a moment, then pressed it hard against her right eye.


    The next second, the eye had merged with her own!


    But perhaps because it wasn''t a perfect match, her right eye bulged outward, creating a rather startling appearance.


    And the next second, the scene before the girl changed abruptly from the office to the sand-filled "East City Area."


    At the same time, she heard the voices of the two middle-aged men: "Damn! What is that? An Illusion of the Law?"


    "Seems like it!"


    "Record it, record it!"


    "It''s recording, it''s recording!"


    "What kind of Illusion of the Law is that? It''s a bit far away, hard to see clearly."


    "It looks like... a man and a woman embracing?"


    As she listened, the girl also looked towards the distant Illusion of the Law.


    Normally, Illusions of the Law towered magnificently, easily visible just by looking up in a city.


    But... that Illusion of the Law seemed extremely distant, at least several tens of kilometers away, so they could only see a fist-sized figure.


    Plus, it happened to be daytime in the "Boundless Heart Sea - East City Area," when the sunlight was at its most intense and blinding.


    Thus, even with careful observation, it was hard to make out more than a vague image of a man and a woman embracing.


    ''Could it be... a Cataclysmic following the Path of Life?''


    As the girl pondered this, the two middle-aged men spoke again.


    "Damn! The Illusion shattered! Looks like they succeeded in evolving!"


    "Who would evolve in the Great Evil God''s area?" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Could it be an Evil God Cultist?"


    "Most likely. Definitely someone shady."


    "Hmm... I have a feeling it''s someone high up in Dongye State who worships the Great Evil God Zhaohui."


    "After all, if it were a regular Evil God Cultist, they could easily evolve in the Disaster Zone or within their own Evil God''s region. There''s no need to come here."


    "That makes sense! Damn! Are we about to make a big discovery? Hurry, let''s go investigate!"


    The first video recording ended there.


    Immediately after, the second video began.


    The second vide showed the area where the evolution took place.


    It was a small hill destroyed by an explosion.


    And the thick layer of sand had already completely covered any remaining part of the hill, practically erasing all traces.


    But these two middle-aged men were clearly professionals. They didn''t give up because of this.


    They took out the Sanctuary standard Cataclysmic treasure "Intangible Distortion Sensor" and began to detect the Cataclysmic Power in the vicinity.


    They quickly recorded a series of information.


    "Traces of five different types of Cataclysmic Power."


    "Three of them are Fourth Order, and two are undetectable."


    "One seems to be an Evil God."


    "The other two are just a breath and are undetectable."


    "Being able to leave just a breath in this place, they''re probably also Evil Gods, right?"


    "Three... Three Evil Gods?! And two Fourth Order Cataclysmics?"


    "We''ve hit the jackpot!"


    The video began to shake as if the two middle-aged men were dancing in excitement.


    The girl: .....


    The video ended there.


    The eye automatically popped out and fell from the girl''s eye socket.


    The twin-tailed girl leaned her head back, rubbing her temples with a hint of a headache, then viciously threw the bouncy eye at one of the middle-aged men''s heads.


    "You two are too noisy!"


    After berating them, she naturally switched expressions.


    She raised her head, blew a pink bubble, and with a "pop!" it burst. Then she said, "But the information isn''t bad~~~ I''ll count this as a merit for you two."


    "Go down and claim your credit!"


    Hearing the girl''s words, the two middle-aged men immediately responded with beaming smiles, "Thank you, Director! Thank you, Director!"


    The twin-tailed girl waved disinterestedly.


    Once the two middle-aged men had left, the girl toyed with the "Hundred-Eyes Vision" she had been holding, her gaze filled with amusement, "A high-level official involved with the Great Evil God~~"


    "How interesting."

 Chapter 694 - 383_2

    "Looks like we''ve snagged a big fish this time."


    After muttering this, the girl''s slender legs suddenly parted, and she sprang up from her chair, then shouted loudly, "Uncle Liao! Uncle Liao! Help me apply for some information!"


    "I want the list of all Third Order and above Cataclysmics high ranks in Dongye State now!"


    "Hurry, hurry, hurry!"


    ...


    Meanwhile,


    In several rooms of Huang Shangzong''s attendant''s room, busy with this accidental discovery.


    The instigators, Qiu Tu and Tang Feifei, quietly returned to Xinjie City.


    Since it was already night, the two could easily avoid other people''s attention with just a little disguise.


    Thus, they switched cars and used the secure passage of the Investigation Bureau Building to return to Qiu Tu''s office together.


    In Qiu Tu''s office, Tan Huimin was sitting at the secretary''s station, spacing out.


    And a "Qiu Tu" was sitting behind the office desk, looking soulless, with his eyes unfocused.


    Hearing noises from the secure passage, Tan Huimin''s pretty oval face suddenly showed a terrified expression.


    Then she hastily stood up with a start and dashed to the side of the "Qiu Tu" behind the desk, continuously shaking Qiu Tu''s arm.


    Just then, a cold voice came from the passage, "Stop shaking him, it''s us, we''re back."


    As she spoke, Tang Feifei walked out of the passage.


    Qiu Tu followed right behind her.


    Seeing it was them, Tan Huimin finally let out a sigh of relief.


    Her eyes slightly red, she looked at Qiu Tu and then said with a choked voice, "Chief, you''re back."


    She was already beautiful, with a straightforward oval face and large eyes, giving her a pitiful look.


    Now, with reddened eyes, she looked even more vulnerable.


    So, upon seeing her like this, Qiu Tu couldn''t help but smile reassuringly and said, "Sister Min, you''ve worked hard."


    Tan Huimin was just an ordinary person, yet these past few days she had been pitting her wits against several high-ranking Cataclysmics, living in constant fear, mentally on the verge of collapse. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thus, moved by Qiu Tu''s words, her tears uncontrollably started dripping "plop, plop."


    ----------


    While he was thinking this, Fang Tangtang shyly covered her face, then untied the sash around her waist.


    The next second, her bathrobe slid off, revealing a body as pristine and sculpted as white jade in front of Qiu Tu.


    Qiu Tu: .....


    Qiu Tu admitted that in that moment, his heartbeat seemed to have sped up for an instant.


    But he was, after all, a proper person. Plus, he had to read that philosophy book tonight!


    So, he looked down at the "Existence" in his hands, one glance, two glances... and then continued reading!


    "To hell with ''Existence,'' the meaning of ''Existence'' lies in Cao currency!"


    Thinking this utterly vulgar, philosophically offensive thought, Qiu Tu jumped out of bed, and amidst Fang Tangtang''s startled cries, he scooped her up and pinned her down on the bed...


    The Blue Moon blushed and summoned dark clouds to cover its face.


    That night, Qiu Tu and Fang Tangtang fiercely made love until midnight.


    Fang Tangtang truly embraced the role of the girlfriend, even though Qiu Tu noticed she furrowed her brows several times¡ªthe "injuries" from yesterday clearly hadn''t fully healed¡ªbut she still earnestly swayed her body, syncing with Qiu Tu...


    And Qiu Tu once again realized how soft and comfortable the facial cleanser from the house brand really was...


    ''Facial cleanser really is better when it''s for personal use!''


    With this thought, Qiu Tu generously imparted his knowledge to Fang Tangtang, enlightening and resolving her queries...


    After all, as the Deputy Head of the Political Department, he already had a quota for killing.


    She couldn''t quite understand the feeling.


    It just felt incredibly comfortable...


    But at that moment, Qiu Tu didn''t give her much time to think.


    He pinned Tang Feifei to the ground, yanked off her bath towel, and overwhelmed her!


    This time, Tang Feifei experienced a sensation she and Liu Fuping had never felt before...


    That distinctly different pleasure made her several times try to use her shoulder to block Qiu Tu''s aggressive advances, attempting to call a halt.


    But Qiu Tu held her down with one hand on her front and the other pressing on her shoulder, making her like a fish out of water, unable to turn over.


    His domineering attitude made Tang Feifei virtually unable to resist.


    Especially when... each time she was about to break under the pressure, wanting to kick Qiu Tu off, he would lean into her ear and murmur in a low voice, "Chief, do you want to breach the contract?"


    At that moment, Tang Feifei truly felt conquered for the first time!


    Honestly, being strong-willed since childhood, she of course couldn''t accept this one-sided "beating"!


    She wanted several times to turn the tables!


    But... she was ultimately a person of her word.


    So... even though she inwardly cursed herself multiple times for agreeing too hastily to Qiu Tu, during this day and night, she genuinely didn''t initiate any contact or resist Qiu Tu...


    She just secretly exerted her efforts!


    This time, Qiu Tu really applied himself toughly.


    He knew that to conquer this woman in front of him, he had to give her an unforgettable experience!


    Thus, he relentlessly clung to Tang Feifei, barely giving her any chance to rest!


    And so, they struggled until late into the night, finally falling asleep in each other''s arms, while at that moment, the 200-plus square meter rest room, every room, was already filled with traces of their battle...


    As he was about to drift off, Qiu Tu also reflected internally: Tang Feifei is truly strong! And truly wild!